Great Commission Family

We must repent of our methods--i'm convicted, how about you?

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:13:00 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9idVpM0DbxE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFGEuanTZiU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trR5TtgGaLo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnVr3Cu2tPw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gg7UyyQ9p-A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0axndOm-NM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HVfNrUg6Yk

relevance

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:00:00 +0000

I received a great article on relevance and ministry. This was my comment to the article.

We struggle to become culturally relevant with the noble intent to reach more folks for Christ, yet fail to recognize that Christ and the Apostles never made such attempts. Inasmuch as Christ engages gentiles and Paul "was all things to all people" in efforts to engage the people they ministered to, the practices and standards of the Church were never altered. Paul made clear in his epistles that the practices he modeled and taught were applicable to "all the churches."

As a results, our noble efforts have completely backfired. Instead of Christ's Kingdom reshaping our world, the world has reshaped the Church. Look at divorce. When society thought it taboo, the church did too. Now society shifted, we see that divorce rates among professing Christians actually exceed atheists. We also see racism and slavery. The church was re;relative silent on these subjects, lagging behind the world's condemnation of such ills.

In all these things, our western mindset drives us to plan and institutionalize our way to fix the symptoms (social ills), yet Christ NEVER said to engage the culture in this way. His Kingdom is a different kind of kingdom--one of the heart. His solution was simple--"make disciples teaching them to obey ALL His commands." He knew the world would be changed if we followed His simple, yet clear instructions. The Church has become IRRELEVANT at impacting our society because of our basic disobedience. If we would do what He said, and not focus on the myriad of attempts to solve society's problems our own way, we would have the impact we all so desire. Yet in our pride and arrogance (again, with noble intent), we think we know better than our King. I pray we repent and return to the simplicity of the Lord's teachings so that we can become as relevant as the early church was--the few folks without money, buildings, seminary training, and our deep theology, completely turned their world upside down.

Marc Carrier
www.valuesdrivenlife.com
www.valuesdrivenpublishing.com

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:14:00 +0000

I am just back from Kenya and suffering from jet lag still. The trip was an amazing success. I trained about 100 pastors all over the country on evangelism, leadership, marriage, parenting, church planting, discipleship, and most importantly--kingdom expansion.

What is woefully apparent from getting on the ground and sharing with folks who have a passion to serve, yet fail to see the fruit in their efforts, is how misguided the church has become through the ages when it comes to NT church practice. For example, the Great Commission has changed from "make disciples, baptizing them, teaching them to obey all my commands" to "make converts through a simple prayer or even the raising of a hand." We have replaced "if you love me you will obey my commands" (John 14:15, 14:21) and "No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has seen him or knows him" (1 John 3:6) with "love, grace, mercy--and even smooth roads and prosperity. What happened to "carry your cross and follow me" and "counting the cost." There is much tickling of the ears and little depth or substance anymore pouring from the air waves--their image of the American church. We teach our congregations: "if you profess Christ, attend church, and tithe--I demand no more from you." Yet, the Great Commission is to "make disciples" and "teach to obey all His commands." Where have we gone wrong? One local man told me "you are the first white man I have ever seen teach the truth."

What is discipleship anyway? Can we really "disciple" someone by "preaching" to them 30 minutes a week? How did Jesus do it? And even Paul? They walked with those they discipled. Can we really disciple hundreds, if not thousands? Jesus simply took on 12 people, and one still fell away. Why do we suppose we can handle more than Him? Paul likewise invested in a few (2 Tim 2:2). Can a lecture style setup really make disciples? What about 1 Corinthians 14:26--anything but a lecture.

Not all traditions are bad--yet many prove only marginally effective. I have brought teachings of NT practices to Kenya. I opened my teaching with this statement: "if you don't see what I teach in the Word, ignore it." The Word is sufficient. Yes, what I shared looked like new wine--however, it is not. It is simply the NT wine pulled off the shelf and put back into practice.

I am very encouraged by the multitudes of folks God is bringing back to the simplicity of NT practices. Traditions are being shed, and the Kingdom is expanding. You see, mammon and tradition have creeped into the church. Men have created their kingdoms at the expense of "the Kingdom." Many now want to see the Kingdom expand--that is church multiplication and the making of disciples.

Many say the soil is hard in their field--that the harvest just is not ready. Yet Jesus spoke of a different problem. He said the harvest is ready, but the workers are few. Well, God has asked me and my family to labor in the harvest of Kenya. We are, right now, selling everything that doesn't fit in a suitcase and relocating our 6 (soon 7) children to the bush in Kenya. The harvest is indeed ready--but not just Kenya. It's ready wherever you are--for those who are ready to embrace God's Kingdom at the expense of their own. God wants those willing to put Him first in everything (1 John 2:15-17).

Now I have a personal request: please pray for my family and ministry. Also, consider supporting us. Not just sending funds--but rather by purchasing our products. I share in Paul's boast that I have always self-funded my ministry and have never taken a salary. That will prove more difficult in a poverty-stricken environment. So I ask that you consider doing what you can to help--while at the same time blessing yourself and your congregations.

My recently released book is designed to mobilize the saints to fruitfulness (www.valuesdrivenlife.com). I have offered an e-copy for free for a while now. I urge you to purchase one for your library and for those you disciple. Every copy you purchase puts $5 in the coffers for our work in Kenya. We also have other reources such as audio seminars, parenting resources, and even natural health products at www.valuesdrivenfamily.com. Please help us in this way. And spread the word about our materials if they have blessed you and yours.

Also, I welcome the opportunity to speak at your church or group within driving distance of Indianapolis. All I ask for is a modest honorarium/offering and a table to display our products.

God bless you all,

Marc Carrier

FIMMology 101: The Study of the Humorous Sins of Our Mouths!

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 07:23:00 +0000

There's a new eBook in town and it's so much fun it's almost a sin! This is not like any communication study you have EVER seen before!

FIMMology 101: The FIMMportant, FIMMtastic and FUNbelievable Study of the Humorous Sins of Our Mouths!

FIMMology (fim-ol'-o-gy) noun: 1. the study of Foot in Mouth Disease; 2. the study of the art of the humorous sins of the mouth.

Thirty nine pages and over 30 lessons packed with hilariously, creative Foot in Mouth Man episodes teaching various communication skills! This is NOT your traditional communication study!

Available immediately as a download

Over 30 fun-filled, creative lessons

Adorably illustrated

Links to even more FIMM Fun

PERFECT for shy communicators!

FUN lessons you can share with children of various ages

Can be used as a homeschool study by teaching one lesson per week and using discussion to explore its implications!

Perfect for adults who need a giggle break!

Makes a great gift too!

Foot in Mouth Man or FIMM, as he is known, began on my blog in 2006. The idea was to create a loveable yet bumbling character that sailed through his life oblivious to the trouble he caused by his complete lack of effective communication skills. His misadventures serve to educate through humor. FIMM stumbles and bumbles his way through life sticking his foot in his mouth so often he has Athlete’s Tongue! FIMM’s misadventures allow young and old alike the opportunity for insight.

FIMMology 101 is an eBook, containing the best of Foot in Mouth Man: the most memorable, creative and fun of his weekly misadventures all in one place. It is my prayer that you and your family find “himm” entertaining and fun, but that you also take to heart the communication lessons inside of each episode as you hone your skills for the things the Lord has for you to share!

Be the first one on your block to get a copy and laugh all the way to better communication skills! To read more about this unique eBook, click here!

From JoJo's Purple Crayon
Teaching communication skills the FUN way!

"I will be careful not to be especially Christian in my prayer."

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 23:06:00 +0000

One of the articles that passed by my desk this week for my Defending the Faith Review was this one about President Elect Barack Obama's decision to ask homosexual Episcopal bishop V. Gene Robinson to pray over an inauguration event this coming week. He had asked Rick Warren, but homosexual activists felt that was a "slap in the face" because of his support of Prop 8.

Rick Warren commented, "President-elect Obama has again demonstrated his genuine commitment to bringing all Americans of goodwill together in search of common ground. I applaud his desire to be the president of every citizen." As odd as that sounds coming from a pastor, the comment that caught my attention was from the bishop himself who stated he would not use the Bible and, "I will be careful not to be especially Christian in my prayer."

Prayer is acceptable as long as it isn't "especially Christian?" In many states prayer is palatable as long as it doesn't invoke the name of Jesus. At public events in California (and other states), you can pray in anyone's name except for Jesus. Many churches are beginning to water down their message and only speak to the "happy parts" of the Bible because some of God's Word doesn't "bring in the masses."

The word 'milquetoast' comes to mind. Actually the Lord calls it being lukewarm. As in Revelation 3:16, "So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth."

Are our convictions only convicting when they aren't so unacceptable? Are we afraid or are we buying into the lie that the Bible is elitist, intolerant, offensive and judgmental? After all times they are a changin' and we need to go with the flow. We can't hang on to archaic myths that tell us there is right and wrong in life.

I can understand the fear, but 2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." How do we let go the fear? We start with knowing our Bibles and graduate to learning how to share it in grace with others. We gain confidence through knowledge and experience, study and practice.

Just today my pastor was talking about how many times the Lord tells us not to be afraid of doing the Christian thing, but many ask how. I have noticed that God also talks about communication hundreds of times in the Bible. I submit that's because He knew we would need to know HOW.

If we learn how to speak out in grace, even though It isn't fashionable, we can be effective. But Christian, you cannot do this by "not being especially Christian." If that is your objective, you had better hang it up right now. Many people who aren't especially Christian are already speaking up in the world today. The Lord doesn't ask us to be one more voice in the crowd. He asks us to stand up in boldness and grace and be different than the world and speak the truth.

It's 2009, let's be especially Christian this year.

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JoJo Tabares holds a degree in Speech Communication, but it's her humorous approach to communication skills which has made her a highly sought-after Christian speaker and writer. Her articles appear on Crosswalk.com, Dr. Laura.com and in homeschool publications, such as Homeschool Enrichment Magazine and The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, which also endorses her Say What You Mean curricula including Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith.

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A Story with a Lesson in Leadership

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 18:28:00 +0000

In preparing for the leadership training I will be doing in Kenya, the Lord gave me a story that has relevance in our body. I shared this with my church. You may wish to do the same. Here it is.

Why are we here and why do we assemble? What is God’s purpose for the church and what is the role of leadership? Well, Jesus taught with stories, and I believe the Lord gave me a word-picture that really spoke to me. It may speak to you as well.

I look outside today and see snow—a stark reminder of the frigid winters in New England where I grew up. Oh, it makes me look forward to Spring all the more as I see the white symbol of coldness covering the landscape.

The snow and accompanying coldness also conjures up images of Narnia under the White Witch’s dominion. The deep freeze holding their world hostage as they awaited Aslan’s coming Kingdom.

The imagery made me think of the role of a shepherd and the response of the church. It made me think of the local body trapped in the wintery storm of this world, under Satan’s dominion. The shepherd eagerly seeks the Kingdom, and leads the church through the snow, carving a path in the frigidness. Yes, he is the one who gets snow in his boots, must expend the most energy, and feels the greatest burden for ensuring that the trajectory is right, the path is safe, and that no one is left behind in the cold. He listens to the vision given him from the Word and the Spirit, and guides with tender care, setting an example where and how to take each step. When he steps on thin ice, his foot gets wet, and he changes the trajectory to keep the others safe. When he approaches a steep incline, he walks around to gentler slopes. He pushes down the snow banks to clear the way ahead of the others.

Yet, a peculiar thing happens along the way. Others become unnerved at the shepherds leading. Some become envious of the presumed glory of walking in front. They fail to count the labor and sacrifice required of it. They assume the role upon themselves, choosing to latch onto the “glory” of position and fail to lead at all. Those who assume the role out of pride, envy or ambition fail to see the Kingdom vision—and lead people in dangerous paths or even in circles—sometimes claiming it is the Spirit’s leading.

Others choose not to walk at all, and build a snow fort, just big enough for the current membership, and with a wall tall enough to keep others that don’t look like them out. Yet others choose to make a snow man and go sledding to just enjoy the coldness of the world, failing to recognize that they are just sojourners in Satan’s wintery dominion. Yet, even others get in a snow ball fight, and decide to leave the path altogether—leaving a wake of disunity and pain.

The shepherd is careful to not carve the path and then double back and push the followers along it, claiming authority from above. Rather, he persuades them—edifying, encouraging, and yes, rebuking—with the Word in love, always putting the vision before them. For there will always be those who want to build a fort, those who want to play, those who leave the path, and aspiring shepherds who have a path of their own. It is an unnecessary burden to blaze the trail along the Lord’s trajectory and look back and see the four camps holding the sojourners on the Kingdom’s path back from the vision, yet, this is the lot of the shepherd.

The moral of the story—the vision—that is the Kingdom, is the destination of His churches. Understand that the church is sojourning together, towards that goal. The Bible admonishes to “Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.” (Hebrews 13:17) This is not mindless submission, but rather being persuaded by their wisdom, by their example, and by the Kingdom vision.

Shalom,
Marc Carrier
http://www.valuesdrivenlife.com/

Ps. All pastors and ministry leaders are invited to get a FREE e-copy of my new discipleship book at http://www.valuesdrivenlife.com. Here are some testimonials.

Make a New Year's Resolution that will fulfill The Great Commission!

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 17:31:00 +0000

One of the recent stories that came across my desk for my Defending the Faith Review newsletter was about an Atheist (Penn of Penn and Teller) who asked why Christians wouldn't share their faith with him if they really believed his eternal soul was at risk. It makes perfect sense. If we really believe that Jesus is Lord, that He commands us to share the Good News with others so their eternal soul is not lost in the Lake of Fire...why wouldn't we speak up?

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:" 1Peter 3:15

There are several reasons why Christians are afraid to speak up and share their faith. 1) they don't know what to say, 2) they don't know how to say it, and 3) they are afraid of the consequences of speaking up. However, when Christians understand how to approach an unbeliever effectively about the Lord and become comfortable, all of those issues disappear.

When you know what to say and how to say it, practice makes you more comfortable in doing so. Any negative consequences of sharing your faith are drastically reduced and you realize that any negative impact is far outweighed by the magnitude of what you are doing for the Kingdom of God. Further, if you understand the next concept, you will drastically reduce any negative responses and increase your effectiveness 100 fold! Here's why:

There are several popular programs and methods for sharing the faith available today but most of them teach a sort of one-size-fits-all approach. Now that does, indeed, work some of the time. However, most of the time it can cause more damage. Approaching someone about a controversial topic such as salvation and religion the wrong way can result in that person making a sweeping generalization about Jesus, Christianity and all those who share the faith. I have seen it many times up close and personal in my own family. It can build a wall around an unbeliever that will not allow Jesus in or anyone who comes along after they were initially "offended" or "turned off".

God didn’t make cookie-cutter people and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sharing the faith. Folks have questions and misconceptions that need to be addressed on an individual basis.

Paul knew this and he talks about how important it was for him to approach people a way that would be most effective in allowing him to save as many souls as possible: 1 Corinthians 9:19-27 (KJV)

"For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway."

One of the reasons why there have been more negative responses to evangelists is that folks were simply approached in the wrong way. This lead to another recent issue: the world is increasingly more secular and intolerant of Jesus! This means that sharing our faith now requires even more communication skill today than in years past!

If you have felt the Lord leading you to become more involved in sharing and defending the faith, I would like to encourage you to take the steps necessary that will lead you more effectively in that direction. One very important step you can take is to get a copy of Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith. This is the most important communication study I have ever written!

These are the lessons I have learned about sharing the faith having grown up in an Atheist home and being the only Christian in my family. These are the lessons I have taught my own children and the lessons we have used successfully with others as we share.

We have received such amazing feedback about this study.

"This is such a needed class and I can see how easily both boys are learning some of the ways to respond (and ways not to respond) to some of the common things people say. I can see how they are understanding their faith in new, deeper ways and making their faith their own. This class has also helped to facilitate discussion in our family around the dinner table. You have a way of presenting things in a straight forward way that is so understandable.Thank you JoJo" -Marcie, Homeschooling mom of two

And...this coming January we are going to begin offering ongoing online classes teaching this study. We will be going through the study one week at a time and then starting over again. You can join the class at any time and take the class over and over as often as you like. We will begin with Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith, but soon we will be adding lessons from our upcoming More Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith and Even More Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith! Because there are so many questions and misconceptions the world has about the Lord and the Christian faith.

This year, let's make a renewed commitment to read God's Word, to listen to His leading for our lives and to share His love and His free gift of salvation with others. Make 2009 the Christian year of action. Let's speak up effectively to share and defend the faith!

From JoJo's Purple Crayon

Tuesday Tips and Grace Talk Soup Year in Review

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 17:29:00 +0000

Happy New Year!

I thought it'd be fun to go back and highlight the communication tips and Grace Talk Soup Shows of 2008. First I'd like to run through all the highlights from my Communication FUNdamentals blog Tuesday Tips: From JoJo's Purple Crayon...

In January of 2008 I began a series of series. lol Every so often I felt the Lord leading me to write a series of tips or articles. Some have later turned up in Art of Eloquence studies or have become studies of their own. The first series of 2008 was one I called "How to Avoid an Argument" There were nine tips posted over nine weeks, but here are a few: Not every argument should be "won" and Avoid Attacking the Person; Focus on the Issue.

On April Fool's Day appropriately enough, I posted some statistics that reveal how we often are not communicating well even though we think we are: How Well Do We Communicate?

I also posted some real life miscommunication issues. These were every day situations in which the person didn't communicate well to me which caused frustration in my own life. One such situation was when I was called for Jury Duty!

Another Tuesday Tips Series I posted was called "A Day Without Communication is Like...IMPOSSIBLE!" This series covered the importance of communication in marriage, parenting, witnessing, learning skills, college prep, job interviews, career success, business ownership and friendship.

In July of 2008 I posted a very practical tip that reminded us all to remember that we are Posting to the World! A situation had come up in which I was excited to participate in an online event but I wasn't able to figure out from the post when I should attend. The poster forgot that she was posting to the world and didn't include the time zone. I never did listen in! :(

Another topic I took on was the anger I find so often these days in our emails and online social networking or blog sites. One was back in August that asked "Is it OK to blast someone? It's just an email, isn't it?"

My next 2008 Tuesday Tips Series was called "Words Mean Things" where I went through some of the most misused words. The first few in the series was Natural and New and Literally!

My next series of tips will be turned into a new eBook shortly. It was called "21 Days to More Godly Communication". Here is the first post from Psalm 34:13 which says "Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceipt."

I received a lot of feedback on these recent articles both on and offline: "Are we too broke to pay attention?" and "How to say what you mean in 140 characters or less".

I pray these articles and tips have helped you and your family communicate more effectively this year. I look forward to serving you again next year with a whole new series of tips and fun.

Please feel free to post your comments here and tell me what you liked about 2008's Tuesday Tips and what topics of effective communication you would like to see covered in 2009. It has been my distinct pleasure in serving you this year.

And here is The Best of Grace Talk Soup from 2008!

Almost every Thursday you will find me Boldly Serving Up God's Word with a Side Order of Grace and Humor over on Grace Talk Soup. Since CHRISTmas and New Year's fell on a Thursday this year, I decided to take the last two weeks off. You will find me back on Grace Talk Soup each Thursday starting again on January 8th, 2009 with an all new season of show topics and guests.

Each year the Lord gives me a new task or two. Almost two years ago, that task was Grace Talk Soup. I began in March of 2007 with my Premiere Episode which you can listen to by clicking on the orange "listen" button next to that episode down under Past Episodes on that page.

Since this is New Year's Day, I thought I would reflect a little bit on this year's amazing line up of guests and important topics on Grace Talk Soup that my guests and I have shared with my listeners.

On this page, under Past Episodes, you can still listen to 12 Habits of a Wise Woman with TEACH Magazine publisher Lorrie Flem, In the College Prep Trenches with my daughter and Talking to Your Kids About Strangers with Tamara Walker of MomRN.

On this page, under Past Episodes, you can still hear the shows: Communication and Menopause, When the Lord Asks You to Step Down, What if You Pray with Pastor Bob Cushman and The Making of Write Shop Primary!

On this page, under Past Episodes, you can listen in to my most recent shows like: Remembering 911, Staying Close While They're Away, Should Christians Celebrate Halloween, this year's Art of Eloquence Birthday Bash, my Thanksgiving show What Are You Thankful to God For?, my special edition show with author Stephen Kendrick creator of Fireproof and The Love Dare, Making the Bible Come Alive: Isreal and my Merry CHRISTmas Show!

They are available 24/7 on audio so you can listen in at any time. Do mark your calendars for Thursdays at 8am PST/11am EST to join me live so you can participate in the discussions and ask questions of my guests.

It's been my pleasure serving you your Grace Talk Soup this year and I pray that you join me in 2009 as I am Boldly Serving Up God's Word with a Side Order of Grace and Humor!

Please join me this year each day as I blog daily about communication skills in a fun and creative way over on Communication FUNdamentals and each Thursday morning at 8am PST for some Grace Talk Soup as I share more Communication FUN!

JoJo Tabares
Art of Eloquence

Comng soon! My favorite project by far!

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:10:00 +0000

Visit www.valuesdrivenlife.com for more details and developments.

Ask yourself-why me, why now?--another praise

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:25:00 +0000

Yesterday was my last day of employment. What does tomorrow bring? I do not know. Maybe I'll find another job local--or what I have been sensing as a real possibility--the lord might be thrusting me into a greater commitment to evangelism and teaching. Yes, that's where my heart is, but I have 6 (+1) children to feed and clothe. You know, worldly responsibilities. As much as I have a local church. I have never asked anyone for support for my exercising of my gifts, nor will I let anyone steal my sharing in Paul's boast of having never been a burden to anyone.

Yesterday, I was in Atlanta coming home from my final secular training gig for my current company. At the airport, I engaged in several conversations--given the ops because of flight delays. One man was traveling to Indy to see his ailing father for the last time before he passes. He was a faithful man, as was his dad. he was at peace with the knowledge his dad will soon be with he Lord. I prayed for him, overtly--with dozens of people listening in. I know Christ was glorified.

Then we embark the plane. Lo and behold, computer problems. An hour more delay. What a last day of work! inconvenient, yes--God ordained? You betcha!

The woman next to me was Christina. She said something early on showing me she had a Christian worldview. I talked with her as if she was saved, though several things came up giving me pause. I shared the many testimonies of God's grace in my life--miraculous healing of my second son, miraculous provision, the current events in my life, as well as the passion of the subjects of my current writings--a discipleship book challenging folks to get serious about their walk with Christ in turbulent times of these last days.

She shared her beautiful testimony. She had a congenital heart problem that was a turning point in her youth. She was really scared, but then god gave her peace that she would live. That got my attention. Because knowing Christ gives peace whether we live or die.

i shared the Gospel. She said she knew she would g to heaven but then attributed her goodness to why. I went through the entire Gospel and she prayed with me, in earshot of the other passengers, that she would put her trust in Christ and make Him Lord of her life. pray for her protection and God's grace in her life with me.

The moral here is more than a praise report--the salvation of Christina. It's to emphasize that the inconvenient has a reason--and it is His glory. My two delays resulting in the glorification of God. And I also believe my timely unemployment will likewise glorify our Lord.

Please pray for my family: provision, quick sale of our house, and God's guidance on how to use my gifts for His glory.

When you least expect it!

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 03:31:00 +0000

I was coming back from a Bible study with a friend's house, author and speaker Steve Atkerson. Well, Steve gave me several copies of the new edition of his book, House Church. Another friend gave me a ride back to my hotel room and I proceeded to the elevator with a stack of about a dozen books in my hand. Well, the title got a man from Trinidad's attention (Peter). He kept asking me about it and made the buzzer sound on the elevator because he wouldn't let the door shut. He asked for a copy and I gave him one. I proceeded to my room and dropped off the remaining books. Then I stormed out to catch him. He was outside by the main entrance on the phone with someone. I waited till he hung up and proceeded to determine if he was saved. Nope! I then went through the gospel with him and he received Christ. WOW! Too easy. Thank you Jesus! He already attended a biblical church but it was all new to him (a recent thing). That's why he was so hungry for more and curious about the books. He had a catholic background. He agreed to get baptized right away and we exchanged email addressed. I promised him a gospel script so he could lead his wife to the Lord.

A Positive Spin On The Ten Commandments

burtonfam6@att.net (Deb Burton) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:43:00 +0000

photo by apdk

Young children can sometimes get confused when their world is full of don’ts. Don’t touch that. Don’t play with your sister’s things. Don’t cross the street without looking both ways. Has your child ever looked at you and asked, “Then what can I do?”

The Ten Commandments were written by God in such a way as to teach us what He doesn’t want us doing. Don’t put other things first. Don’t mock His name or use it irreverently. Don’t steal, don’t lie, don’t envy other people’s things.

Because we want to be proactive parents, let’s teach our children what the Lord does want us to do. Turn the commandments around so they positively project what it is that would make God happy.

Make Me the only God you love and serve, because I’m the only one there is.
Make Me the most important thing in your life.
Use my name with great care and reverence.
Dedicate one day out of the week to focusing on Me.
Treat your dad and mom with great respect and I’ll bless you for it.
Respect life.
Save yourself for marriage. Make your wedding night special beyond belief.
Treat other people’s things and time with respect. Always ask permission before touching someone else’s property.
Always be honest in your dealings with other people.
Be glad for the success that others achieve. Congratulate and encourage them in the Lord.

Just so you know, I would never advocate changing the Word of God to make it say what I want it to say. All these positive spins can be found elsewhere in the Bible, so I’m not making these up to make God’s Word softer or more warm and fuzzy. Being proactive as a parent means we deliberately and purposefully teach our children what it means to be a follower of Christ. Knowing what to do is as important as knowing what not to do.

Enjoy teaching your child in a positive way!

For more articles of encouragement and practical ideas, visit The Greatest Mission Trip You'll Ever Take.

Abortion Survivor, Gianna Jessen, speaks to Parliament

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 12:15:00 +0000

Gianna Jessen, abortion survivor, speaks at Queen's Hall,
Parliament House, Victoria. Australia on the eve of the debate
to decriminalize abortion in Victoria.

The fact that she survived a saline abortion in those days is miraculous alone, but she is able to do things the doctors thought she would never do and she is an advocate for unborn children around the world!

I just posted them on my blog. Please click here to view both videos together. She is awe inspiring!

FIMM Weekly Drawing begins today!

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 12:13:00 +0000

Finding FIMM Weekly Drawing

Find FIMM each week for a chance to win a free product

from one of our sponsors!

Here's how it works:

Foot in Mouth Man is our resident MIScommunicator and Art of Eloquence's mascot. He has entertained and educated for over 120 episodes now!

Each week this picture of Foot in Mouth Man will be hidden on a different page somewhere on our site. Your job, should you decide to accept it, is to have fun finding FIMM and email in telling us where you found "himm" fimm@artofeloquence.com

That's all you need to do! Your email address will automatically be entered into our drawing. We will draw one winner each week.

Click Here to see what this week's winner will receive!

Help in these financially challenging times!

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 19:31:00 +0000

Art of Eloquence News:

Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith is THE most important communication study I have ever written! Our Lord tells us in His Word to go out and share the Good News. You cannot do that without communicating! The way in which we communicate God's Word can make all the difference, especially in today's more global and complicated, secular world. And the most effective way to share God's Word with others is very unique to that individual. Most apologetics courses take a one-size-fits-all approach. The information is usually fabulous, but God doesn't make cookie cutter people, and because of this, you often cannot speak to one individual the same way you would to another and expect to have the same impact - that is where communication skill comes into play!

There are so many questions and misunderstandings about the Lord, the Bible and what it means to be a Christian today. I have covered 18 of the most popular questions asked about the Christian faith in an easy to understand, effective study that will teach you how to communicate your knowledge of scripture and what the Lord says in His Word in such a way that the person to whom you are speaking will be open-minded and receptive to your message, instead of getting defensive and perhaps even angry. Have you ever started off with the best of intentions and tried to share the Word of God with someone only to end up in an uncomfortable situation, or worse yet, chose not to share your faith or defend your beliefs because you were afraid of getting into an argument with someone? If so, then this e-study is exactly what you need. Remember, it isn't enough to know God's Word, you must be able to articulate it - and do so with love, elegance and grace.

Many folks have written to me saying they would love to purchase this e-study, but they are having a tough time financially given the recent economic events. Art of Eloquence would like to help! Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith is regularly $19.95. But between now and the end of October, you can have your own copy of Defending the Faith for only $9.95 - that's more than 50% off!

In addition, with Thanksgiving just around the corner, with your purchase of Defending the Faith you will also receive The Word on Thanksgiving - a sweet collection of adorable graphics illustrating scripture as it relates to giving thanks to our Lord and to others. Each order will receive a copy of this eBook as an email attachment.

Don't forget also that each order placed in the month of October (and until our Birthday Bash) will enter you in our drawing where six lucky customers will win a prize package worth over $200!

Now there is no reason to put off studying how to more comfortably and effectively take part in The Great Commission any longer! Order Say What You Mean: Defending the Faith now!

Day 9: 21 Days to More Godly Communication

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 20:23:00 +0000

Today's scripture is from Proverbs and is related to my previous post. When we speak, we need to do so respectfully.

"He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious
will have the king for his friend." -Proverbs 22:11

Why does the Lord tell us to speak respectfully and in grace? Because the Lord knows that you get more bees with honey than you do with vinegar! Why?

* Being right may make you wrong!
You may be telling the "God's Honest Truth", but if you do so disrespectfully and without grace, nobody will care! Being right about something doesn't make you effective when you discuss it with someone. Good communication skills do! Nobody will be willing to hear you out if they feel they are being spoken to disrespectfully. Even if they do hear you, they will not listen. Lastly, if they do hear you, listen, understand and agree, they may not be willing to admit it-even to themselves!

* Few will forgive intent.
Sometimes it isn't what we say but how we say it that communicates the most. People can forgive someone who misspeaks. What they have a hard time forgiving is intent. The way in which we approach someone shows our intent. Did we simply use the wrong word or did we INTEND to accuse you of something. That is the question.

* Words live on after you speak them.
Once words are spoken, they have a life of their own and cannot be taken back. You may be able to apologize for poor word choice, but you will have a hard time obtaining forgiveness for a disrespectful intent to mock.

* Grace is more effective.
God knows that sharing something in grace has a much better chance of yielding results. Have you ever had to tell someone something that you were afraid they would take the wrong way? It needed to be said, but you were afraid of how they might react. Perhaps to your children? Whatever God puts in your heart to share with someone has a much better opportunity to be taken well if it is said in grace. At least if the person disagrees with you, they know you had meant it in love.

* Your words and intent behind them can show God's love.
If we speak in grace and out of love for one another, we show God's love and grace and mercy. Even man knows this to be true: "Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain and most fools do." Dale Carnegie

If we speak in grace respecting that each individual has his own mind and a right to decide for himself, we show respect for him. He, then, is more likely to show respect for us and for our ideas. We may not always agree with our friends and leaders, but we can begin to dialog with them, creating alliances with those who can help us.

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JoJo Tabares holds a degree in Speech Communication, but it is her humorous approach to communication skills which has made her a highly sought-after Christian speaker and writer. Her articles appear in homeschool publications, such as Homeschool Enrichment Magazine and The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, which also endorses her Say What You Mean curricula. You can also find JoJo on web sites such as Crosswalk.com and Dr.Laura.com. For more information on communication FUNdamentals and Christian-based communication studies for the whole family, please visit http://www.ArtofEloquence.com

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Communication Cartoon for You!

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 20:20:00 +0000

I posted this on my blog for Friday Funnies this past week. Thought you all might enjoy a communication laugh. I created the cartoon to illustrate this anonymous quote.

"The mind is like a TV set-when it goes blank,
it's a good idea to turn off the sound." -Anonymous

If you want to more Friday Funnies delivered right to your email each and every week, you can subscribe to Communication FUNdamentals Newsletter here.

If you are on Twitter or Facebook, I post a Communication Thought of the Day. You can find me as JoJo Tabares on either one. Look me up! I'd love to connect with you!

Of Those Who Believe

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Guyer) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 15:26:00 +0000

I had an interesting discussion with a young guy from work the other day about faith. I had felt the Spirit lead the discussion as we were working and followed.

I asked if he was "religious" as God was prompting me. He said no and began telling me that he wasn't an atheist. Then, he went on to explain his atheistic beliefs. (I'll leave that one alone :)) I followed most of his explanations with a simple question every time. "So where did that come from?". He felt very smart as the conversation continued on until it came down to those mysterious "gases" that came out of no where.

His discomfort with my questions pushed him to talk more and more degrading towards me about a creator. He made repeated comments to the effect that people who believed in God must have stopped looking at the facts and begun being irrational. He had done the research, and there was no evidence for a creator.

I shared that I had experienced doubts and questions years ago and done quite a bit of reading in my search for a better understanding. You could tell he couldn't believe I had read about it and wanted to demean my personal search. This didn't bother me for a reason I'll explain in just a minute.

I began telling him about Lee Strobel's book "The Case for a Creator" and how he had looked at the research and came to the opposite conclusion, after having talked to the "authorities" on both sides of the discussion. This was a turning point in our conversation as he began to realize that I was talking about someone who had done the research. He even asked me for the title of the book so that he could read it on his own.

I knew in that moment there is a fork in the road to which all of us come: believe or not believe. In my humble opinion, the evidence is overwhelmingly in favor of a Creator. For others, the evidence is off the scale in the other direction. We all come to this point, where we choose to either believe or to not believe.

I believe that there is a God. I believe he is the God who stopped the Jordan River at flood stage. He's the same God whose Spirit enabled Sampson to kill a thousand men with the jawbone of a donkey and the same God who held shut the mouths of the lions and saved Daniel. I believe that same God sent his Son, Christ Jesus, to offer me life. Wait, he didn't just offer me life. He offered me "life abundantly", and I accepted. Since that day, I've seen Him. I've watched him heal and redeem over and over again. I don't need a magazine to tell me what I've seen with my own two eyes. No scholar will ever be able to explain away what I've seen my God do, because His ways are higher than our ways.

I have nothing to fear because I'm "not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved" (Hebrews 10:39).

If we're going to say we believe, then we must not be of those who shrink back. Why? Because even the demons believe and they shudder. Believing isn't good enough. We're Christ's ambassadors. We're his chosen vessels. We can't allow the powers of this dark world to snuff out the light in us.

If you've seen him move, then believe and share. John wrote an entire book about what he had seen and believed. He didn't want anyone to have doubts about what he had seen. At the end, John said:

"Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name."

John 20:30-31

What have you seen? What have you believed? Do you have life in His name? Now is the time to share it. Today is the day of the Lord. No more chickens. Do not shrink back. We're of those who believe.

Holy Father, enable your people to boldly share your mercies. Your love endures forever and we proclaim it to the world.

This is also posted on Cut From the Rock, a sister blog of Rise of the Home.

Assumptions of Faith

burtonfam6@att.net (Deb Burton) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 15:57:00 +0000

photo by House of Sims

Assuming our children know something can be a problem, for both them and us. Even more problematic is the rationalization we’ll then go through to justify why we never spent the time making sure they had the information they needed.

My thirteen year old son is still saving money to go towards a Wii system. He asked if there were any jobs around the house that could be done for pay. We have a tiny spare bedroom upstairs that the previous owner had used a faux painting technique on the walls and I wanted to make it all one solid color, so I gave my son the option of tackling the room. He didn’t think the pay was high enough, but seeing as how money wasn’t falling out of the sky on him, he eventually took the job.

We have painted numerous rooms together as a family. It’s not like this room was an initiation into the task. Yet, when I poked my head in the door after finishing some grocery shopping, I saw switch plates that hadn’t been removed with green paint smeared around them, the curtains still up, a picture still hanging on the wall, and the open can of paint and its lid sitting on the sheet drop cloth without any newspaper or plastic under it.

Practicing the motherly art of gentleness I said, “You know, you’re supposed to take the switch plates off before you start painting.”

“What’s a switch plate?” Assumption #1.

“You also need to take down the curtains, and you can’t leave the picture hanging up there.”

“Why do I have to take the curtains down?” Assumption #2.

“Did you stir the paint before you started using it?”

“Was I supposed to?” {sigh} Assumption #3.

“And that can of paint needs a newspaper or something under it to keep any drips from soaking through the sheet to the floor below.”

“Why wasn’t I told about any of this beforehand?!” By now my hand is firmly planted on my forehead, my eyes closed as I think back to painting his sister’s bedroom just this past summer, and the living room, dining room and kitchen we painted in the other house, and the dining room, hallway and bedrooms we painted in the house before that.

“Is this the first time you’ve painted?” I asked in rebuttal, trying my best to squarely place the blame of his lack of painting prowess on his shoulders. “There are certain things as common sense at work here, too, you know.” photo by basykes

The truth is, I assumed too much. I assumed he knew all those things, or that he at least would have been able to figure it out for himself. Fortunately, no paint spilled on the floor and he hadn’t yet gotten to painting around the windows with the curtains. However, I am definitely out about five or six switch plates.

Do we make the same assumptions about our children’s knowledge about salvation, about God’s place in their lives, about obeying His truths? Do we assume that because we faithfully attend church and send our kids to Sunday school and youth activities and Christian camps that their walk of faith is guaranteed? Or that they’ll at least be able to figure it out for themselves somewhere down the road?

Parents, let us resolve right here, right now: our children are a mission field. We are to take a deliberate, purposeful approach to teaching them about God, His salvation plan and what His Word says about living according to His truths. Please don’t assume they know it already, or that they’ll figure it out for themselves somehow.

There’s more at stake here than a bunch of switch plates.

Convicted! We must bear fruit.

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 15:06:00 +0000

This was originally written in response to a comment for this article. However, I thought it was worth posting as an article itself.

The tremendous fruit of the yard sale (and week) kind of convicted me. Because I commit my Saturday mornings to street evangelism with my boys. However, this week with guests and a yard sale (and Cindy doesn't know how much to sell my stuff), I had to stay home. So I prayed for people to come to me. Well, they did--and in hoards! See this article for details.

Then I thought to myself, if I can reach the lost and minister to the saints during one of life's normal activities, why just on Saturday morning. Man oh man--you give and inch and God takes a mile! He wants me (and you) ALL the time and single-minded. If we engage the unsaved--evangelism; the saved, discipleship--either on the giving or receiving end. It's all about the Kingdom!

Here is a little thing I wrote about bearing fruit (fyi--this is a sneak preview of content from an upcoming book and is Copyright protected, all rights reserved):

Throughout Scripture, Jesus taught in parables or simple stories to make a deep spiritual point. When teaching on the subject of spiritual growth, he often used an analogy of planting crops.

"The sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell beside the road, and it was trampled under foot and the birds of the air ate it up. "Other seed fell on rocky soil, and as soon as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. "Other seed fell among the thorns; and the thorns grew up with it and choked it out. "Other seed fell into the good soil, and grew up, and produced a crop a hundred times as great."

"Now the parable is this: the seed is the word of God. "Those beside the road are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their heart, so that they will not believe and be saved. "Those on the rocky soil are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no firm root; they believe for a while, and in time of temptation fall away. "The seed which fell among the thorns, these are the ones who have heard, and as they go on their way they are choked with worries and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to maturity. "But the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance.” (Luke 8:4-8a, 11-15)

Let’s break this down and look at this in the context of the teachings of Jesus.

The Seed is the Word of God—specifically, the Gospel. The soil is people’s hearts. The rain and sun are the Holy Spirit, being dispersed to the good and the wicked (Job 5:10, Matthew 5:45).

The soil of the hardened path is the hard-hearted individual, or unrepentant sinner (Romans 9:18). The hardened heart is unaffected by the Holy Spirit and they fail to be convicted of sin (John 16:8). In fact, the rain and the seed are never able to penetrate the packed soil. They do not allow the seed of the Gospel to take root—that is: the Holy Spirit’s conviction and the truth of the Gospel never reach the heart. Satan steals the truth (John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:8) and ultimately keeps them from receiving the gift of eternal life.

Likewise, the path is made for walking. Seeds, plants, and anything in the path are at risk of being trampled. Therefore, even beyond rejecting the only way to heaven (John 14:6), the hard-hearted individuals trample the Gospel under foot (Matthew 7:6), adding insult to injury. Then the devil comes and plants the seeds of death (Mathew 13:15 and 39). This leads to their certain condemnation (Matthew 13:40-42). Not a pretty picture.

The rocky soil represents superficial soil—or rather the superficial or fair-weather “Christian.” They receive the Gospel with gladness. They are excited to say the “magic prayer,” yet fail to persevere. Let’s explore Jesus’ analogy further.

In Paragon, Indiana where I live, we recently had a flood. On June 6, 2008 we received 11.13 inches of water in just 12 hours. As a result, 90% of our little town was under water. Likewise, many of the Indiana corn fields (including our garden) were submersed. You may think this wouldn’t affect the plants. However, even a few days of excessive water can have a lasting affect on the plants. The end results are quite similar to the plants described in the rocky soil. What happens when a plant gets submersed, is the roots grow shallow. Under normal conditions, they seek moisture at the depths. You might think it wouldn’t matter much. However, if they have insufficiently developed roots, the plants are unable to survive the summer dry season. Ultimately, the corn yellows and it never produces ears.

Now, if someone continued to water and fertilize plants with a poor root system, they would certainly survive. However, it takes a constant effort to obtain acceptable results. Likewise, with a fair-weather “Christian,” as long as conditions are good, they are enjoying their walk, there are no temptations pulling them from their commitments, and their Christian experiences are positive, they will play the part and gleefully live a life of Sunday-to-Sunday “Churchianity.”

However, temptations come is many shapes and sizes. It could be another Christian saying or doing something that rubs them the wrong way. It may be an issue with the church. Likewise, it could be a boy- or girlfriend, substance use, job loss, financial struggles, or any of a myriad of temptations that can cause one to go from joy in the faith to sourness. Whatever the cause, the lack of true roots, getting sustenance from Christ himself (see John 15:4-5), leads to withering away and dying. Apart from Him, we will never make it. Notice that in Jesus’ parable concerning the rocky soil, the plant does indeed die. This fair-weather “Christian” stands condemned (see John 15:6 and Hebrews 6:4-6).

However, these examples are not for you. You fall into one of the better categories: the seed among thorns or good soil. Now, you may wonder why I am grouping these together. The answer is simple; they are the same soil! These folks are actually both born-again, bona fide believers in Jesus Christ. Their eternal security is assured. Yet, Jesus treated them separately. Let’s dig in a little deeper to understand these folks a little better, since, by the way, if you are indeed saved, you and I automatically fall into one of these two categories.

First, what is the difference between the two? So if the soil was the same, why did one thrive and prosper while the other struggled? They both received the seed (Gospel), it planted, and took root, and it grew. They both received sun and rain and nourishment from the soil. So what was it?

Competition! The unfruitful plant had to contend with the thorns and the other didn’t. As a result, only one bore fruit—a bunker crop to be precise. So the wise might ask, do all we have to do is weed to get a good crop? Well, yes, but it takes just a little more than that. You see, in verse 15 the little phrase “with perseverance” catches my attention. There is a lot wrapped into that little phrase. Weeding takes effort: as does watering, fertilizing, and so on. A bunker crop takes a lot of effort. In fact, look at my garden and you’ll see what happens when you don’t put the effort you should into it.

So if the Christian encumbered by thorns and the one who is weeding with perseverance both go to heaven, why bother? Who needs fruit anyway, right? To answer that one, let’s go back to the parable. Jesus tells us the distracted Christian bears no fruit. What exactly does “fruit” refer to? The Scriptures refer to fruit in many lights, all of which can apply here. First, we see fruit as the result, as in the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians chapter 5. We also see one can bear good or bad fruit (Luke 6:43-4). Likewise, we see reference in Scripture to saved souls as being fruit (John 4:36 and Matthew 9:37). However, let us look at this passage in keeping with the context of Jesus’ parable. The Greek word here meaning to bring to perfection, completion, or maturity, figuratively means to ripen fruit. It is in this context that Jesus was speaking.

What, after all, is the purpose of fruit? Now I mean actual literal fruit. Why is an apple tree with apples far superior to a tree with no apples, or even one with just unripe apples? Because you can’t eat the tree, of course! So the fruit provides nourishment for others. However, what if the fruit is not ripe—can in nourish? Yuck—sour apples will make you sick to your stomach! No, we need ripe fruit to provide nourishment. What if the apples are rotten or have some disease—can you eat them? Absolutely not. You need good fruit to nourish the body. And to produce good fruit, you need a good tree. In fact, a bad tree can’t produce good fruit (Luke 6:43-44).

So what else does fruit do for us? What do you start with when you plant a garden? Seeds, of course. No seeds means no plants. Well, where do seeds come from? That’s right, fruit. Fruit is also necessary for reproduction. We must have fruit in year one if we are going to plant a crop in year two. A fruitless crop is a one-generation crop—and useless at that. Who really wants a corn field with no corn—or an apple tree with no apples? No one. I know Jesus doesn’t have any interest in fruitless trees either (see Matthew 21:19, Mark 11:14, John 15:16). So we can’t settle for anything less than a bountiful crop either.

So we now understand that fruit is for nourishment and reproduction. However, this book isn’t really about farming. So what is it we’re after here? Here is the juice. Mature—that is fruitful Christians feed, others and reproduce. That’s it. So unfruitful Christians indeed go to heaven. Yet they are going alone! Unfruitful Christians have minimal impact during their tenure on this rock.

This is Satan’s ultimate goal for the saved. He has lost the battle. He lost a soul to the Kingdom. However, he wants to simply cut his losses and keep us from being effective for the Kingdom. He wants us to go to heaven alone. He wants us to remain in “soil 3” and never make it to “good soil” status. How does he do it, you ask? By planting thorns in our lives! How do we keep from losing to Satan’s designs? Weeding!

So what is a thorn, you ask? It’s anything that keeps us from living in the center of God’s will for our lives. The examples Jesus gives in the parable are the “worries and riches and pleasures of this life.” Wow! These aren’t necessarily bad things. They are the American dream—our due rights and privileges in a democratic capitalist society. How can “the pursuit of happiness” be wrong—it’s in the constitution as an “inalienable right endowed by our Creator,” isn’t it? Now I’m not bashing the constitution. However, it is worth noting that our human value system is not necessarily identical to God’s divine value system.

Thorns. Planted by Satan to keep us from bearing fruit. Satan’s ultimate plan is to marginalize Christians by rendering them ineffective through “worries and riches and pleasures of this life.” Wealth, possessions, hobbies, entertainment—yes that includes sports, television, movies, and video games—all thorns! Then we have some more elusive thorns: work, family, and yes, even church. No, he couldn’t mean church? Yes, I said it. You see, any one of these things can become an idol, sapping all of our time and energy, keeping us from being productive and effective for the Kingdom. Family is not evil. However, family idolatry is—that is putting family first, as in before God. Also, work is a necessity, isn’t it? It can’t be a thorn. Can it? If we put our job ahead of God, it is the most heinous thing we do. And yes, doing “Churchianity,” that is, going from program to program, upholding tradition (those sacred cows), and even fixating on pet doctrines can all render us ineffective for the Kingdom, if not kept in check.

Contra wise, wealth isn’t, in and of itself, evil. The Bible says “the love of money” is the root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10). Therefore, it’s more a matter of the heart, than the external. Remember, our heart is the soil.

So we have now identified some potential thorns. Let’s now discuss what it takes to yield a fruitful crop. We already know it takes hard work—what the verse calls “perseverance.” So what do we need for success in this area? We have already discussed that we need good soil—that is, a loose loam with no rocks that allows moisture and the seed to penetrate the surface and offers enough depth for the roots to spread unhindered. We have also discussed competition being an issue—that is the thorns interfering with the growth of the crop. Therefore, we need to weed out the competition if we are to produce fruit.

Let’s dig deeper (pardon the pun) into the first two soils and see what else was troublesome there. The first soil had birds of the air stealing the seed and traffic trampling the seeds and tamping the soil. What are some means we could keep plants safe from such nuisances? Well a fence would work for the traffic. A fence works to keep my chickens out of the garden—but the text says birds of the air. How about a scarecrow? That’s it; crops need protection! Protection from foot traffic, animals, pests, disease, and so on. We use fences, scarecrows, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and we weed, weed, and weed some more. All of this is necessary to protect our plants.

In the spiritual world, protection takes many forms. The greatest of which is Christ Himself. He is our “scarecrow” that will keep the Devil from getting to us (John 10:10-12). For our battle in not against men, and we can’t wage it alone.

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:10-12).

We also see in this passage our second line of defense: prayer. “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18). Also alluded to in this passage is our third ad final line of defense: accountability. We are to lift each other up and support one another. By doing so, we can help “weeding” and keeping the enemy from hurting each other. James 5:16 says: “confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” This comes with a promise that “the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”

But we are not done with our farming. There is more. How well would a crop grow without fertilizer? Yep, Christians need fertilizer too. Our nourishment comes from God’s Word, the Bible.

There is absolutely no substitute for sitting down during your quiet time in the morning reading God’s Word. It is always relevant, and always timely. Read the same passage ten times and here God’s gentle voice whisper new and fresh insight into His will and His heart for you each time you read it. It is nourishment for the soul, and an absolute necessity if you are going to bear fruit. Face it, how can you impart nourishment to others until you have your personal fill to the point of overflowing. The author of the book of Hebrews said to them, in essence, to stop being “soil 3,” bound with thorns, and start being fruitful Christians, providing nourishment to others.

We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 11:11-14).

Read also Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians whom he chastised for being bound with thorns:

Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly.” (1 Corinthians 3:1-3a).

These passages serve as reminders to us to get busy weeding so that we can be fed, and therefore, be fruitful in feeding others.

21 Days to More Godly Communication

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 01:37:00 +0000

The Lord talks about communication HUNDREDs of times in His Word. As we read the Word of God, we understand the power and impact of the tongue. He cautions us and instructs us in its use, not just for making speeches, but for everyday life.

They say it takes 21 days to make a habit so, over the next 21 days, I am going to share a few of my favorite verses and the importance of applying them today.

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver." -Proverbs 25:11

This is my signature verse so I thought I'd start with it. I love this verse. It reminds me that our words are precious. We shouldn't just throw them out there and hope they stick. We should take care to choose our words wisely and craft our conversation with wisdom, tailoring it to the unique individual and particular situation at hand.

Being an effective communicator is more important today than it ever was before. WHY?

* We are now communicating with the world.
Technology has given us the ability to communicate with people around the world. With one click of a mouse we can send our words anywhere. We need to remember that these unseen people are human beings from different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who see the world in a unique way.

God doesn't make Cookie-Cutter People and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to communicating effectively. It is critical that our words are a good "fit".

* Misinformation abounds.
Precisely because it is so easy for someone to express their opinions to the world, it is equally as simple to express misinformation. We have come to understand that, just because it is written in the paper or reported by a newscaster, doesn't necessarily make it true or accurate. The media is famous for twisting the truth and reporting whatever serves its agenda. We need, also, to understand that whatever is typed into a blog or article on the internet may not be "the whole truth and nothing but the truth."

In today's society, it is often necessary to explain or clear up misunderstandings people have. This isn't as easy to do these days because there are more "hot topics" than there used to be. Politics and religion are no longer the only topics to "stay away from in polite company". Today's society has an emotional reaction to many topics including homeschooling, evolution, gun control, global warming, vaccinations, etc.

Today's discussions require much more communication skill to overcome the knee-jerk emotional reactions that inevitably follow any mention of many of these topics.

* People are busy.
I remember watching a documentary from the 1950's that depicted what society would look like in the 1980's. I think I watched it in the 1990's so it was quite humorous to me. It showed the wife as the lady of leisure. Due to the technological advances, she was able to get her housework done in a fraction of the time leaving her rested and able to pursue more of her interests.

Today's woman is busy! Aside from the housework and children, she is usually working as well (outside or inside the home). Today's husband may have to work more than one job to make ends meet. People no longer have the time to investigate issues thoroughly. They rely more and more on the media and, as I said, the media has their own agenda to promote. They no longer give you, as Sgt Friday used to say, "Just the facts, Ma'am." The media infuses their "truth" with opinion, sound bites and misinformation.

It takes much more communication skill to respectfully break through some of these deeply held, accepted beliefs. It also takes more time. Time people generally don't have to wade through all the information out there and discover the truth. They're busy keeping their family together and making ends meet.

* Respectful discourse is no longer in fashion.
If you read the words of our forefathers, you will notice that, although they may have disagreed vehemently with someone, they usually did so with respect and in grace. Not so these days.

Because there is so much information (and misinformation) thrown at us when we are busier than ever, there is more of a frustration with life today. Because much of the information we get is from faceless sources (TV, internet, email, billbaords) we are no longer coming face-to-face with a human being. There is a justification, or even almost an entitlement, to respond to someone out of frustration with disrespect.

I remember waiting in line behind a red light in the left turn lane a few years ago. The woman behind me got out of her car, walked around to my driver's side window and began screaming her head off at me! I remember her being behind me for several blocks prior to that. She came into view when the car in front of her changed lanes. I had no idea what she was so upset about and I dared not open my window to find out! When the light changed to green, she got back in her car and went on her way.

Road rage is only one of the many ways in which society has come to express their anger and frustration. It is much less common for someone to do something so violent in person, but over the internet where you don't need to look into the eyes of your victim, people are much more likely to "fly off the handle".

It takes much more communication skill to handle the typical "Nasty Grams" we get today.

* Anti-Christian bias is.
More and more each day, Christians are told to sit down and be quiet about Jesus. Just the mere mention of the name of our Lord and Savior brings anger to some. More and more college professors and even high school teachers feel justified in spouting hatred of Christians, our beliefs and our Lord. More and more God is being taken out of our society in the name of "separation of church and state."

Even young Christian children may have to handle a question or negative comment (in school or even on the playground) about their faith. It is no longer a matter of if a Christian will be asked to defend his faith, but when.

God tells us to share the Good News. We can't do that without communicating. When we communicate, whether it be to share or defend our faith, express our political ideas or even just to have a conversation with someone in line at the grocery store, we cannot just throw our words out there and hope for the best.

The Lord tells us how we are to use the power of the tongue. Throughout the Bible, He shares how we are to speak with one another. Each of us is a unique creation of God who sees the world from a different perspective. It takes much more skill to communicate than it used to. We need to learn to share our thoughts and ideas in today's world. The first step is to understand that our words are precious.

A word fitly spoken can be a gift we give to others as we share our lives and experiences with them.

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Spectacular yard sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 23:35:00 +0000

In preparation for the sale of our home, we are decluttering. Our intent is to buy a smaller home outright (no mortgage) and get a travel trailer to take our ministry and street evangelism throughout the nation on a regular basis. To prep for the move, we did a yard sale today and yesterday. Well, my routine street Saturday morning evangelism was put off because we had guests over from our CT church helping us prep our house. However, I did not consider it a total loss, but rather prayed earnestly that there would be some fruit from the sale. I thought to myself, let them come to me instead of me to them.

Well, God showed up. I don't have time to chronicle all the events, but the results were me ministering, discipling, and praying for two couples that just want to go to the next level in their walk with the Lord. We had four commitments to join us for church soon. And last, but certainly not least, we had two women receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ! Yes, two more for the Kingdom! The mom and 21 year old daughter were one of the families committed to joining us for fellowship.

Yeah, we sold about a $150 dollars worth of stuff too. Not too impressive, I know. But what a day. The whole family and several friends contributed to this extremely fruitful day--ending the week with a total of four salvations and lots of directed discipleship! Amen and glory to God!

The harvest is ready

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 01:07:00 +0000

What an exciting day. I am in NJ teaching a technology class. After the day, I went out to dinner with a couple of my students. During conversations over the last couple days with these two particular students, it came up that I was involved in ministry. So when it came time to eat, one of the students asked me to say grace for us all. As we ate, the other student, Ken, started asking questions about Christianity. He would not let up. I didn't discourage it, as I am quite versed on Scripture and all matters of apologetics. He asked me dozens and dozens of questions. I slipped the Gospel in my answers numerous times. After dinner, I asked him if he wanted to talk more in the lobby of our hotel. He stated that he was just about to ask me the same. We conversed for literally 3 hours. We covered just about everything an inquisitive mind could think of. He just took every answer in with absolute resolution. The truth reverberated in his heart and mind.

After I filled him with more knowledge than I thought I could ever impart in one sitting, I asked "the" questions. He knew he couldn't get to heaven. He was hopeless for an answer. I shared the truth of the Gospel and he sincerely accepted. I told him it wasn't a magic prayer, but rather if he was sincere in his heart, he was saved. He responded, "It's sincere." I have NEVER led someone to the Lord that gave me so much confidence that he totally understood what was shared and had received it so wholeheartedly. What a tremendous blessing to have been granted the privilege to lead this man to eternal life. I know his wife will be next.

He said that he has been to churches and talked to multiple pastors, but no one was ever so sincere and convincing to him. No one ever explained it the way I did. I know I did nothing special, but do fault the church with majoring in the minors too much--church attendance, traditions, denominations--and competition. I emailed him a lot of follow up materials and will help him find a church in his area and get baptized right away.

I told him that I hoped to take to the road and field soon doing more of "this." He said, "you have to." His statement was a tremendous comfort, encouragement, and confirmation that I need to press on doing just that. Pray we sell our house soon. The harvest is ready.

M

I'm a grand-daddy!

noreply@blogger.com (Marc Carrier) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 23:56:00 +0000

OK, those who know me are wondering, how can he possibly be a grandfather with his oldest child under 10? I was speaking figuratively, duhhh!

Here we go. Last Sunday we met for our monthly "regional' church meeting. We had about fifty of so people there and met outside for a "barbecue pork" church meeting. It was a great time.

When we finished the teaching time of the meeting, my 9 year old son Isaiah commented to my wife Cindy that the deep discourse/teaching on spiritual growth was timely, because it was ideal for a new believer. Cindy asked him why it was timely. He said it was because he had just led a kid at church to the Lord. He said he intended on telling me when I got home. Cindy told him that he might want to tell me right away so that I could discuss it with the child's father.

Isaiah proceeded to tell me the scoop. He said that a 10-year-old girl told him not to be friends with a particular (I would guess about age 12) boy we'll call Jim (not his real name) because he said a swear word and bragged about having smoked cigarettes. Isaiah, feeding my glowing daddy pride, said to himself, "God says to love our enemies," and proceeded to "EE" him. Yes, "EE"--the abreviation for Evangelism Explosion--an evangelism training program--is actually a verb in our household. Well, he went through the EE questions and determined the kid was unsaveand asked him if he wanted to pray to receive Christ as his Lord and Savior right there. The kid accepted the invitation. Isaiah prayed for him and had him repeat after him in prayer (pretty thoroughly, I might add--he told me what he said on the ride home).

I followed up with the kid's dad and confirmed he was never saved. I told him I would email him a complete Gospel script so he can thoroughly go over the Gospel with his son and make sure he understood the committment he was making and see to it that he was baptized in short order. I also informed a couple more mature beleivers in that particular regional group to follow through with the father and child to make sure he is indeed saved and baptized.

I was overjoyed with Isaiah's courage. He has seen first hand, me witnessing to numerous people exactly as he had done. I intentionally bring my boys with me when I go our witnessing. Granted, Isaiah kind of glossed over the repentence part, and the "wages of sin" part and went right for the prayer. However, he was very thorough in the prayer part. I showered him with praise and reinforced the areas he could have been more thorough.

The lesson I have here for all parents is this. If you want to raise a soul-winner, you can't just tell them. Show them! Discipleship is "follow me." Show them what is means to be a fruitful follower of Christ. We personally can only reach so many people ourselves. If we embolden, train, and equip the next generation--as they mobilize, we will see a mighty harvest.

I'm sure Isaiah will do something really stupid to set my "mountain top" parental pride in its place in short order. However, it is wonderful to see fruit of a discipleship-centered home and homeschool. This is really what it is all about. It is about Kingdom work. It is about seeking and saving the lost. In spite of all my shortcomings as a parent, persistence modeling what it means to be a follower of Christ, has produced fruit, fruit that will last.

M

Free Communication and Friendship audio available for a limited time!

noreply@blogger.com (JoJo Tabares) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 04:51:00 +0000

Art of Eloquence has just posted the second in the series of communication audios that are available for a limited time. This one is on Communication Skills and Friendships! It's from my newest eBook, A Day Without Communication is Like...IMPOSSIBLE but it's been expanded to include even MORE TIPS and resources!

http://www.talkshoe.com/tc/22703

It's available for download, but only for 10 days so don't put it off! It's under 18 minutes, but it's POWERFUL for anyone wishing to make and maintain better friendships! Don't miss out!