<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?><?xml-stylesheet href="http://www.blogger.com/styles/atom.css" type="text/css"?><rss xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" version="2.0"><channel><title>Deep Thoughts by Chad</title><description>My thoughts on current issues and all the latest on what's going on in my life.</description><managingEditor>noreply@blogger.com (Chad H. Mills)</managingEditor><pubDate>Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:36:21 -0500</pubDate><generator>Blogger http://www.blogger.com</generator><openSearch:totalResults xmlns:openSearch="http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/">166</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex xmlns:openSearch="http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/">1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage xmlns:openSearch="http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/">25</openSearch:itemsPerPage><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/</link><language>en-us</language><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:keywords>Chad,Mills,First,Baptist,Oil,City,Oil,City</itunes:keywords><itunes:summary>Message by Bro. Chad H. Mills</itunes:summary><itunes:subtitle>Rev. Chad H. Mills Sermons</itunes:subtitle><itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality"><itunes:category text="Christianity"/></itunes:category><itunes:owner><itunes:email>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><item><title>Weight Loss Journey</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2018/08/weight-loss-journey.html</link><pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 2018 11:07:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-6666308721953451870</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKstjQfrnqv1RyisqgaIAGwMKGIThb9zuGWfIZRyw5hDeLnqoF-nz7uAEWu2ibFkU2hDJSWcrNI108Q4WXND-gtbdsiEUn2LauDsBgXxbzu-f8SqCf5mhNGTIWSD9QqngTb7RiUg/s1600/IMG_0358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKstjQfrnqv1RyisqgaIAGwMKGIThb9zuGWfIZRyw5hDeLnqoF-nz7uAEWu2ibFkU2hDJSWcrNI108Q4WXND-gtbdsiEUn2LauDsBgXxbzu-f8SqCf5mhNGTIWSD9QqngTb7RiUg/s320/IMG_0358.JPG" width="320" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
So I thought it was time for an update! &amp;nbsp;So far I’ve dropped 55 pounds and have decided to drop another 5 and then maintain. &amp;nbsp;I’m still doing a low carb/high fat modified diet. &amp;nbsp;In addition to the weight I’ve lost I have also dropped close to ten inches from my waist! &amp;nbsp;My blood pressure has gone down, my cholesterol numbers are much better than before the diet. &amp;nbsp;Overall my health has &amp;nbsp;improved. &amp;nbsp;Dropping the weight has been appreciated by my knees and back for sure. &amp;nbsp;My body is still in Ketosis which seems to be a buzzword. &amp;nbsp;I’ve increased my daily carb intake to around 50 grams. &amp;nbsp;I have found this diet is easy to follow, you don’t feel hungry, and it’s something I can commit to long term. &amp;nbsp;Fads come and go. &amp;nbsp;This for me has been a lifestyle change. &amp;nbsp;It has been liberating. &amp;nbsp;I rarely feel that bloated feeling and that dreaded regret after a big meal. &amp;nbsp;Everyday I drink two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. &amp;nbsp;I find it helps break down sugars, helps blood sugar levels and helps regulate the body’s alkaline levels. &amp;nbsp;The key is finding something that works for you. &amp;nbsp;Then the next step is sticking to it. &amp;nbsp;This seems to be the struggle for many. &amp;nbsp;This diet tends to give fast results which can encourage you and keep you motivated. &amp;nbsp;I want to take care of my body, it’s the only one I have! &amp;nbsp;I also see the connection between mind, body and spirit. &amp;nbsp;I’m working on all three aspects. &amp;nbsp;And remember this, &lt;b&gt;&lt;i&gt;the training stops when the casket drops&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/b&gt;!</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKstjQfrnqv1RyisqgaIAGwMKGIThb9zuGWfIZRyw5hDeLnqoF-nz7uAEWu2ibFkU2hDJSWcrNI108Q4WXND-gtbdsiEUn2LauDsBgXxbzu-f8SqCf5mhNGTIWSD9QqngTb7RiUg/s72-c/IMG_0358.JPG" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title/><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2018/05/sharon.html</link><pubDate>Sun, 13 May 2018 21:04:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-6984226442807894120</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
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Sharon. Mom. &amp;nbsp;Mommy. &amp;nbsp;Mammaw. &amp;nbsp;Red. &amp;nbsp;She carried me for nine months, gave birth to me as well as my two two sisters. &amp;nbsp;She was my inspiration. &amp;nbsp;She made so many sacrifices throughout her life. &amp;nbsp;She taught me how to laugh. &amp;nbsp;She taught me how to overcome. &amp;nbsp;She taught me to respect people. &amp;nbsp;She showed me how to treat women. &amp;nbsp;She wasn’t pretentious, she wasn’t afraid to admit her weaknesses. &amp;nbsp;She was genuine. &amp;nbsp;She was a great encourager. &amp;nbsp;She was my number one fan. &amp;nbsp;We were as close as a mother and son could be. &amp;nbsp;On November 12, 2009 I didn’t just lose my mom, I lost a friend. &amp;nbsp;Nine Mother’s Day holidays have passed and my heart still hurts. &amp;nbsp;I miss you momma! &amp;nbsp;You made me the man I am. &amp;nbsp;Thank you for everything! &amp;nbsp;I love you!</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZzVMyL8xNWpK-CtorNgnVH-FATMMrEd9is5N78x1qiWzeNq1XJv4_5Ak-9QURbWc7N4_kRR1ypvFiSYx43IVz56RYdiOsvbGQF2Uyuaklc6WPdPUjqPAyqyR3G2EQAmMcWl-FQ/s72-c/IMG_0002.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title/><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2018/05/since-january-i-have-been-on-weight.html</link><pubDate>Thu, 3 May 2018 20:48:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-1407208175914549963</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
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Since January I have been on a weight loss journey.&amp;nbsp; I was at my heaviest and I wasn't in good health.&amp;nbsp; So I dedicated myself to changing my eating habits.&amp;nbsp; To change the way I ate and the foods I ate.&amp;nbsp; I am doing a combination Keto&amp;nbsp;and low carbohydrate, high fat diet.&amp;nbsp; I have enjoyed it!&amp;nbsp; Seriously!&amp;nbsp; Many tried to tell me along the way that I couldn't be on this diet long.&amp;nbsp; Self-proclaimed experts said, "You can only do Low Carb so long!"&amp;nbsp; Thanks pal!&amp;nbsp; What if we have been told wrong all these years?&amp;nbsp; What if our food pyramid is truly upside down?&amp;nbsp; Why are we so dependent on carbohydrates and processed foods?&amp;nbsp; Our ancestors lived on meats, specifically fats and proteins.&amp;nbsp; Yep, I said the "F" word.&amp;nbsp; We have been programmed to believe we have to get our energy from carbs and that low fat means it's healthy.&amp;nbsp; I am by no means an expert and I have only been researching this for about five months.&amp;nbsp; In my defense I have stayed at a Holiday Inn Express more than a few times.&amp;nbsp; But here is my testimonial:&amp;nbsp; I have lost 40 pounds in four months.&amp;nbsp; I went from a size 38" waist down to a 32".&amp;nbsp; Overall I feel better, I have more energy.&amp;nbsp; My body now converts fats and proteins as its fuel source.&amp;nbsp; I went from loving bread more than Oprah Winfrey to realizing carbs were not my friend.&amp;nbsp; I plan to lose about ten more pounds&amp;nbsp;and then maintain.&amp;nbsp; This is more than a diet, it is a lifestyle change.&amp;nbsp; Yes it still takes discipline and no, I am not starving.&amp;nbsp; I don't have the cravings I used to.&amp;nbsp; My regimen is not for everyone.&amp;nbsp; But here is what I know.&amp;nbsp; Tomorrow never comes.&amp;nbsp; That weight you want to lose has to be evicted by force.&amp;nbsp; So start your journey!&amp;nbsp; Do your own research, find something that works for you.&amp;nbsp; You can email me for details as to what plan I follow: &lt;a href="mailto:chadmills76@gmail.com"&gt;chadmills76@gmail.com&lt;/a&gt;&amp;nbsp; &lt;/div&gt;
</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLNCKmRErrvr6D91Gu98qnwj1QnXen9Tf5Q8MVxEjAQ5lkHyGIXFy_HERc4cdugAt6Wsh8V2Ot41_MwiWO7wG85Cbdqc16NCo0lR6BXw0Q0Sk6Xt-YQy51kz-OYfqJV8wOn_Wbw/s72-c/CHAD.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title/><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2018/05/so-imagine-you-work-in-law-enforcement.html</link><pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2018 20:47:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-2403809350929941759</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdEWgo6RVquNoX16SpaZABDn8udrJGzX2-ermamt7zS-Gjw22LrMTRBpu9jAhf_UGjOj-Tq0kJ3eOE-lleesxipRqDkkmc58Q9KxVYBhUJCxYmKoqXoDR7qinVnj9hIgB0y3sQQ/s1600/comey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="750" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdEWgo6RVquNoX16SpaZABDn8udrJGzX2-ermamt7zS-Gjw22LrMTRBpu9jAhf_UGjOj-Tq0kJ3eOE-lleesxipRqDkkmc58Q9KxVYBhUJCxYmKoqXoDR7qinVnj9hIgB0y3sQQ/s320/comey.jpg" width="320" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
So imagine you work in law enforcement.&amp;nbsp; You are investigating an individual for criminal behavior.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;After a long day on the crime beat you grab a bite at a local café.&amp;nbsp; A colleague joins you and the both of you discuss&amp;nbsp;the suspects appearance.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;You make negative comments about his skin color/complexion, you discuss his hair (whether it is real or not), you jokingly criticize the length the suspect wears his ties.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;You even make a comment about his hand size with a sarcastic tone.&amp;nbsp; The waitress as well as&amp;nbsp;an elderly couple in a booth nearby hear the comments.&amp;nbsp; What do you think happens to the case you and your colleagues have been building when your conversation makes its way to the suspects attorney?&amp;nbsp; What if the press hears about those "corrupt" cops and their prejudice talk?&amp;nbsp; There are real examples of this.&amp;nbsp; The O.J. Simpson trial exposed Detective Mark Fuhrman had made some racially insensitive remarks, which tainted the investigation into the homicide of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman.&amp;nbsp; When the "lead investigator" has an ax to grind, like he's on a personal vendetta it taints the entire investigation.&amp;nbsp; It's a shame when bitter people seek revenge.&amp;nbsp; Lady Justice wears a blindfold to symbolize she is impartial.&amp;nbsp; Unfortunately, too many in politics today are not impartial.&amp;nbsp; Washington, D.C. is full of people with ego and on power trips.&amp;nbsp; One guy in particular has been on a huge power trip lately.&amp;nbsp; Watching the former director of the Federal Bureau of Investigations parade around promoting his book,&amp;nbsp;appearing on talk shows, and promoting himself up as some 'holier than thou' man of integrity is nauseating.&amp;nbsp; People with integrity don't have to brag about their integrity.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; There is&amp;nbsp;a misprint on the cover of his new book, it reads "A HIGHER LOYALTY" when it should read "A HIGHER ROYALTY".&amp;nbsp; That's all this self-promoting book is about.&amp;nbsp; You.&amp;nbsp; You making money off of your grudge and vendetta.&amp;nbsp; Thanks for making it harder on those who work in law enforcement.&amp;nbsp; Those who put on the gun and the badge and do their best to serve and protect.&amp;nbsp; Those who don't have axes to grind and put their lives on the line.&amp;nbsp; </description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdEWgo6RVquNoX16SpaZABDn8udrJGzX2-ermamt7zS-Gjw22LrMTRBpu9jAhf_UGjOj-Tq0kJ3eOE-lleesxipRqDkkmc58Q9KxVYBhUJCxYmKoqXoDR7qinVnj9hIgB0y3sQQ/s72-c/comey.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>I’m Back!</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2018/04/im-back.html</link><pubDate>Sat, 21 Apr 2018 20:40:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-3349217840707671740</guid><description>Don’t call it a comeback, I’ve been here for years! &amp;nbsp;However my blog has been dormant. &amp;nbsp;It has been inactive for nearly four years! &amp;nbsp;That’s a presidential term! &amp;nbsp;And so much has happened that it will take more than one post to get caught up. &amp;nbsp;I feel like my blog was and is therapeutic. &amp;nbsp;Yes, I admit I need therapy but who doesn’t? &amp;nbsp;So it’s time to get back to blogging! &amp;nbsp;Like an ingrown hair that needs to be popped, I have a lot of pent up frustrations. &amp;nbsp;So bear with me. &amp;nbsp;I’m hoping to use posts to vent on politics, the media (Fake News when I get done with you you’ll think President Trump is polite!). But I will also post about things that I experience in this journey we call life. &amp;nbsp;So thanks for not giving up on my blog. &amp;nbsp;And to my friends I say thanks for never giving up on me! </description><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Fast Food Workers Strike</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2014/09/fast-food-workers-strike.html</link><pubDate>Thu, 4 Sep 2014 15:45:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-2551619914159183385</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8P379UPtYS0wZv2jCvmitluCp8TeK2SH0WEwqhFlveSOjTyuJxQx0KG2D2ckRD6TmQRt-UlZu9iuR_2uuKcDvCgY7FMJNY6t4hlSYTDFK0o8d-0joPTwMKoxpY2M8tXLm2vcrBA/s640/blogger-image-1327056399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8P379UPtYS0wZv2jCvmitluCp8TeK2SH0WEwqhFlveSOjTyuJxQx0KG2D2ckRD6TmQRt-UlZu9iuR_2uuKcDvCgY7FMJNY6t4hlSYTDFK0o8d-0joPTwMKoxpY2M8tXLm2vcrBA/s640/blogger-image-1327056399.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;Thousands of fast food workers went on strike today. &amp;nbsp;Demanding the minimum wage be raised to $15. &amp;nbsp;Simple economics prove that if fast food chains and small diners, cafés are forced to raise the minimum wage you can plan on spending more on that Big Mac or plate lunch. &amp;nbsp;I remember vividly when I worked at an entry level job for minimum wage when it was $3.25 per hour (it is now 7.25). &amp;nbsp;The congress was debating raising the wage and my co-workers were all for the raise. &amp;nbsp;I remember as soon as the wage was increased my hours and the hours of my co-workers were decreased by 25%. &amp;nbsp;Suddenly those workers were not in favor of the increase. &amp;nbsp;Businesses are forced to increase their prices or decrease the labor force to keep the bottom line stable. &amp;nbsp;In our current economy where we are facing rising inflation we can't afford higher prices on our Happy Meals. &amp;nbsp;I understand it is hard to survive on minimum wage, I also know many of those jobs are entry level and give employees an opportunity to advance and be promoted. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8P379UPtYS0wZv2jCvmitluCp8TeK2SH0WEwqhFlveSOjTyuJxQx0KG2D2ckRD6TmQRt-UlZu9iuR_2uuKcDvCgY7FMJNY6t4hlSYTDFK0o8d-0joPTwMKoxpY2M8tXLm2vcrBA/s72-c/blogger-image-1327056399.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Israel&amp;#39;s Right to Self-Defense</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2014/07/israel-right-to-self-defense.html</link><pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2014 18:21:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-6802247450566402583</guid><description>&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pZrkduMpcDLXGmOaPyBtBHa9AHZQfvCBVMSI5X-t7TMGj9_R3m1zs9e_LD8u3W_Rguy-rCkxo7vC86w6r0IVH6Ap83ZB8LWmA8Y9B4n9vQvmySE4yKB_SB1Dp1E73HsGf7GbPQ/s640/blogger-image--448194480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pZrkduMpcDLXGmOaPyBtBHa9AHZQfvCBVMSI5X-t7TMGj9_R3m1zs9e_LD8u3W_Rguy-rCkxo7vC86w6r0IVH6Ap83ZB8LWmA8Y9B4n9vQvmySE4yKB_SB1Dp1E73HsGf7GbPQ/s640/blogger-image--448194480.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;As of today over 1,000 rockets have been fired into Israel from Gaza. &amp;nbsp;Hamas and the terrorists have been relentless in firing rockets, threatening the Tel Aviv International Airport, endangering the lives of civilians, children and homes. &amp;nbsp;Israel has every right to defend itself, to protect it's citizens, and to stop the terrorists. &amp;nbsp;I have been to Israel seven times. &amp;nbsp;I am pro-Israel and proud of it! &amp;nbsp;I pray for Israel and the peace of Jerusalem. &amp;nbsp;The bible commands us to. &amp;nbsp;The bible promises a blessing for those who bless Israel and a curse for those who don't. (Genesis 12). But what sovereign nation would not have the right to protect itself? &amp;nbsp;If rockets were being fired into your neighborhood, into your town, would you not expect the military to respond? &amp;nbsp;By the way these rockets and mortar being used against the citizens of Israel were smuggled into Gaza by "humanitarian relief efforts". &amp;nbsp;They have stockpiles of rockets and are determined to use them to harm Israelis. &amp;nbsp;We, as a nation, should stand with Israel and call for the end of coddling these terrorists groups! &amp;nbsp;Shalom Chaverim!&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pZrkduMpcDLXGmOaPyBtBHa9AHZQfvCBVMSI5X-t7TMGj9_R3m1zs9e_LD8u3W_Rguy-rCkxo7vC86w6r0IVH6Ap83ZB8LWmA8Y9B4n9vQvmySE4yKB_SB1Dp1E73HsGf7GbPQ/s72-c/blogger-image--448194480.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Love in Action</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2014/02/love-in-action.html</link><pubDate>Fri, 14 Feb 2014 06:46:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-5760314608974303093</guid><description>&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSb1S44I_mZiZ5uW75U37WMoEe57wEHxQfa7-Gv9IjGwQysOBYlDgtb_ReIjl2bVA_cDxqOfaZ6G23ZBnlolDckaPFPft61wpt6ZbnMsjEMZIOK8WUqDE7MyCxa6VCr9hpKlHDSA/s640/blogger-image--1029056375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSb1S44I_mZiZ5uW75U37WMoEe57wEHxQfa7-Gv9IjGwQysOBYlDgtb_ReIjl2bVA_cDxqOfaZ6G23ZBnlolDckaPFPft61wpt6ZbnMsjEMZIOK8WUqDE7MyCxa6VCr9hpKlHDSA/s640/blogger-image--1029056375.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;Orange County Sheriff's Deputy Scott Pine lived a hero. &amp;nbsp; He left a career in finance and banking to work in law enforcement. &amp;nbsp;He wanted to give back to his community, to serve and protect the people. &amp;nbsp;He died a hero, shot in the line of duty. &amp;nbsp;In his life he set a great example for others to follow. &amp;nbsp;Including my children who loved him and looked up to him. &amp;nbsp;A great father, loyal husband, a devoted Christian man. &amp;nbsp;Scott was one of a kind. &amp;nbsp;My brother-in-law was loved by so many. &amp;nbsp;I have seen a great outpouring of love the last few days. &amp;nbsp;His fellow deputies, neighbors, church members, law enforcement from everywhere, and complete strangers have put their love in action and loved on the family in so many ways. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;The bible tells us "Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." &amp;nbsp;John 15:3. &amp;nbsp; Scott is my hero. &amp;nbsp;He put his love in action, served and gave back to his community, put others before himself. &amp;nbsp;To honor Scott and his family you can show gratitude toward those serving in law enforcement. &amp;nbsp;Thank them for their sacrifice. &amp;nbsp;Jesus said, "Blessed are the peace makers for they will be called the children of God."&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;http://www.deputyscottpine.com&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSb1S44I_mZiZ5uW75U37WMoEe57wEHxQfa7-Gv9IjGwQysOBYlDgtb_ReIjl2bVA_cDxqOfaZ6G23ZBnlolDckaPFPft61wpt6ZbnMsjEMZIOK8WUqDE7MyCxa6VCr9hpKlHDSA/s72-c/blogger-image--1029056375.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Government Bullies</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2014/01/government-bullies.html</link><category>Chris Christie</category><category>corruption</category><category>Jersey</category><pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2014 09:12:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-377564860436185370</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKrwBj211S1kefAC_eDuQKVTCRiVQY2YWZX-ZJYBRPzDm6s8oF-7cc-7cH-4O3V4gmeSfektIaGgXdGS9-Lr8awBoiSZEx1uOKsyCAX_lOqz_xRkZSN9h22dcsdf12xC_Xy_rNQ/s640/blogger-image--1783106880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKrwBj211S1kefAC_eDuQKVTCRiVQY2YWZX-ZJYBRPzDm6s8oF-7cc-7cH-4O3V4gmeSfektIaGgXdGS9-Lr8awBoiSZEx1uOKsyCAX_lOqz_xRkZSN9h22dcsdf12xC_Xy_rNQ/s640/blogger-image--1783106880.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;The news broke recently of political retribution in the State of New Jersey. &amp;nbsp;And you thought lane closures, traffic and bridge issues were incidental inconveniences? &amp;nbsp;Seems like bullies working in government wanted to use their authority to teach someone a lesson. &amp;nbsp;We don't tolerate bullies on the school playground, why should we tolerate it from those who are in government? &amp;nbsp;The IRS has been used by presidents of both parties to intimidate and coerce political enemies. &amp;nbsp;This is abuse of power, corruption and malfeasance. &amp;nbsp;These people work for us. &amp;nbsp;This is the fundamental difference in our system of government and other countries. &amp;nbsp;We don't accept tyrants. &amp;nbsp;This is the country of 'We the People'. &amp;nbsp;We have taken a stand against taxation without representation, we have dumped tea in the Boston Harbor, we've stormed beaches and removed dictators, tyrants and despots. &amp;nbsp;But it's my observation that big government has made the people the subjects. &amp;nbsp;To be ruled over, intimadated, and dependent upon Big Brother. &amp;nbsp;This is not the American Way. &amp;nbsp;We should remember the battle cry of the Revolution, "No King, but King Jesus!". &amp;nbsp;Remind the bully bureacrats, the politicians they work for us not the other way around!&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKrwBj211S1kefAC_eDuQKVTCRiVQY2YWZX-ZJYBRPzDm6s8oF-7cc-7cH-4O3V4gmeSfektIaGgXdGS9-Lr8awBoiSZEx1uOKsyCAX_lOqz_xRkZSN9h22dcsdf12xC_Xy_rNQ/s72-c/blogger-image--1783106880.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>The Dr. Is In</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-dr-is-in.html</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Dec 2013 13:59:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-598504067189161560</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_IJ87iXE9tXQqAa3uow8b0uIturlx_mK0FOsICxtbH6GqiZRbhvHg8f4Z0ben5Y-iNFl0P_i3-ymGVhZ9VGNQ_UbKc6AUr6Phst8Q-uGYWU7swLntzpZotZkOIPP3jxmZE-Y4Q/s640/blogger-image--669050739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_IJ87iXE9tXQqAa3uow8b0uIturlx_mK0FOsICxtbH6GqiZRbhvHg8f4Z0ben5Y-iNFl0P_i3-ymGVhZ9VGNQ_UbKc6AUr6Phst8Q-uGYWU7swLntzpZotZkOIPP3jxmZE-Y4Q/s640/blogger-image--669050739.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;This Sunday I begin a new sermon series, "The Dr. Is In", a study of the Gospel of Luke. &amp;nbsp;The New Year comes with opportunities and challenges. &amp;nbsp;Kick off your new year right, come to church and make it a weekly habit. &amp;nbsp;This new year we are going to study this gospel penned by a physician. &amp;nbsp;Luke was a meticulous researcher and this gospel reveals many details about Jesus. &amp;nbsp;Luke was a Gentile, not a Jew and he writes with a different perspective. &amp;nbsp;So journey with us through the Gospel of Luke Sunday mornings at Airline Baptist! &amp;nbsp;&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_IJ87iXE9tXQqAa3uow8b0uIturlx_mK0FOsICxtbH6GqiZRbhvHg8f4Z0ben5Y-iNFl0P_i3-ymGVhZ9VGNQ_UbKc6AUr6Phst8Q-uGYWU7swLntzpZotZkOIPP3jxmZE-Y4Q/s72-c/blogger-image--669050739.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>He Shall Be Called</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/11/he-shall-be-called.html</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 Nov 2013 21:15:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-8551685557941779346</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFkvWCiuXhZAlGXG1LFI_aAEnyCM6K3xwb0vyLSQLBZFo7zYiMysFUhuC7nMh3O_4SQjg07ux2liFWtNoQzZFT4ZjVzkbZt8IsWMcYexh1_069p1rvrBNL4R4bjNpHHwJ110bFQ/s640/blogger-image--1826977969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFkvWCiuXhZAlGXG1LFI_aAEnyCM6K3xwb0vyLSQLBZFo7zYiMysFUhuC7nMh3O_4SQjg07ux2liFWtNoQzZFT4ZjVzkbZt8IsWMcYexh1_069p1rvrBNL4R4bjNpHHwJ110bFQ/s640/blogger-image--1826977969.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;This Sunday I begin a new sermon series, "He Shall Be Called". &amp;nbsp;We will focus on one passage from the Old Testament about a prophesy of a child's birth. &amp;nbsp;In fact this prophesy was from 700 years before the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. &amp;nbsp;This passage describes who this child would be and what he would do. &amp;nbsp;I am excited to preach this series during this season. &amp;nbsp;This season comes full of excitement, anticipation, but also stress and anxiety. &amp;nbsp;Many aren't even aware of what Christmas is all about. &amp;nbsp;Many who call themselves Christians are focused on the commerical side of Christmas. &amp;nbsp;This series will help us focus on the birth of The Hope of the World. &amp;nbsp;The Promised One. &amp;nbsp;The Messiah. &amp;nbsp;I invite you this Sunday, December 1st to Airline Baptist as we learn about the Christ child. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFkvWCiuXhZAlGXG1LFI_aAEnyCM6K3xwb0vyLSQLBZFo7zYiMysFUhuC7nMh3O_4SQjg07ux2liFWtNoQzZFT4ZjVzkbZt8IsWMcYexh1_069p1rvrBNL4R4bjNpHHwJ110bFQ/s72-c/blogger-image--1826977969.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Change Your Outlook</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/11/change-your-outlook.html</link><pubDate>Sat, 23 Nov 2013 08:08:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-3320881949407260665</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtmUo-R9qsZZTAC2g7_Vf_uplqXC4tudkp5AaynhIPaOjeuN0Lrpae7Pbt0XlFy1ZjIRAU0UMRs1jUer40AEsleORNNXVdLjc41tXuGdvD13C4yRaMrYZ5XktQ5pUnThyphenhyphenDIroVQ/s640/blogger-image-1075736051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtmUo-R9qsZZTAC2g7_Vf_uplqXC4tudkp5AaynhIPaOjeuN0Lrpae7Pbt0XlFy1ZjIRAU0UMRs1jUer40AEsleORNNXVdLjc41tXuGdvD13C4yRaMrYZ5XktQ5pUnThyphenhyphenDIroVQ/s640/blogger-image-1075736051.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;So it is Thanksgiving week and before we get busy looking for our great aunt's brocolli casserole, or checking our Cajun injector supplies, or coordinating last minute travel plans, it would be beneficial to look at our level of gratitude. &amp;nbsp;I believe our level of happiness is directly related to our level of gratitude. I firmly believe by changing our outlook we can change our life. &amp;nbsp;In fact if we would follow what the Psalmist said in the 121st Psalm, 'lift my eyes toward the mountains, where does my help comes from? &amp;nbsp;My help comes from The Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.' &amp;nbsp;An upward look will change your outlook. &amp;nbsp;Instead of looking at your circumstances, look up. &amp;nbsp;Change your outlook, change your life. &amp;nbsp;See you Sunday!&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtmUo-R9qsZZTAC2g7_Vf_uplqXC4tudkp5AaynhIPaOjeuN0Lrpae7Pbt0XlFy1ZjIRAU0UMRs1jUer40AEsleORNNXVdLjc41tXuGdvD13C4yRaMrYZ5XktQ5pUnThyphenhyphenDIroVQ/s72-c/blogger-image-1075736051.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Trust in God, not in Uncle Sam</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/10/trust-in-god-not-in-uncle-sam.html</link><pubDate>Tue, 1 Oct 2013 14:09:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-1234864206244495513</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnn6UwGFJLXqSkJ17ZJ7VWhNo_ifY_Mm3be2aRvHKB6xso6JvYBUuv4iq_SCDDu5CPu1LB8dRhAGhVKDwBBMAtKp6yM57w64VDH7iOYyHv5iZCu3jm0r_xHrwHK0jOLYDDbdV6Gg/s640/blogger-image-809854630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnn6UwGFJLXqSkJ17ZJ7VWhNo_ifY_Mm3be2aRvHKB6xso6JvYBUuv4iq_SCDDu5CPu1LB8dRhAGhVKDwBBMAtKp6yM57w64VDH7iOYyHv5iZCu3jm0r_xHrwHK0jOLYDDbdV6Gg/s640/blogger-image-809854630.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;Everyone these days is feeling the pinch of a weak economy, uncertainty about the changing healthcare laws, and there is a general anxiety about the direction our country is headed. &amp;nbsp;Times like these should teach us to put our trust in God and not in stocks, bonds, or even gold. &amp;nbsp;The government is not the solution, in fact most often it is the problem. &amp;nbsp;I am personally being affected by the change in healthcare laws. &amp;nbsp;Due to rising healthcare costs our church is considering dropping the group health insurance we currently offer our full-time employees. &amp;nbsp;The rising costs have put a financial burden on our church budget. &amp;nbsp;Many companies and families are experiencing this same burden. &amp;nbsp;(Walgreens, Sears, IBM) &amp;nbsp;We were told healthcare costs would go down. &amp;nbsp;With an aging population is that even feasible? &amp;nbsp;By the way, I like my current health insurance and I like my current medical doctor. &amp;nbsp;You will remember we were told if we were satisfied customers we could keep our current plans and doctors. &amp;nbsp;The problem is many of our plans are being dropped or changed by the insurance companies to adhere to the new regulations. &amp;nbsp;And many doctors are getting out of clinical care and becoming hospitalists or taking early retirement. &amp;nbsp;Once again we have been sold a bill of goods. &amp;nbsp;It shouldn't surprise us. &amp;nbsp;Our currency reminds us it is not "In the FED we trust" or even "In the Dollar We Trust". &amp;nbsp;It is "IN GOD WE TRUST". &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnn6UwGFJLXqSkJ17ZJ7VWhNo_ifY_Mm3be2aRvHKB6xso6JvYBUuv4iq_SCDDu5CPu1LB8dRhAGhVKDwBBMAtKp6yM57w64VDH7iOYyHv5iZCu3jm0r_xHrwHK0jOLYDDbdV6Gg/s72-c/blogger-image-809854630.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Comfort One Another</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/07/comfort-one-another.html</link><pubDate>Thu, 25 Jul 2013 17:34:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-8855880061546763581</guid><description>Throughout the Bible we see the words, 'Comfort one another'. &amp;nbsp;1 Thessalonians 4:18 and 5:11; Hebrews 3:13 for example. &amp;nbsp;As Christians we are called upon to share one another's burdens Galatians 6:2. &amp;nbsp;We are better together. &amp;nbsp;Recently in our church we have had church members pass away. &amp;nbsp;I have watched as other members have visited, called, sent cards and loved those who are hurting. &amp;nbsp;It has blessed my heart as pastor to see Christians living out their faith. &amp;nbsp;This is what Jesus talked about in John 13:35, "Everyone will know you are my disciples, by your love for one another." &amp;nbsp;When we leave the loving to the professionals, i.e. Pastors, Deacons, etc. then we are missing what Jesus taught and lived. &amp;nbsp;I love what the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. &amp;nbsp;"&lt;span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"&gt;&lt;span class="text 2Cor-1-3"&gt;Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,&lt;sup class="crossreference" value="(&amp;lt;a href=&amp;quot;#cen-NIV-28804H&amp;quot; title=&amp;quot;See cross-reference H&amp;quot;&amp;gt;H&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;)" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top; "&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;span id="en-NIV-28805" class="text 2Cor-1-4"&gt;who comforts us&lt;sup class="crossreference" value="(&amp;lt;a href=&amp;quot;#cen-NIV-28805I&amp;quot; title=&amp;quot;See cross-reference I&amp;quot;&amp;gt;I&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;)" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top; "&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&amp;nbsp;in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;span id="en-NIV-28806" class="text 2Cor-1-5"&gt;For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ,&lt;sup class="crossreference" value="(&amp;lt;a href=&amp;quot;#cen-NIV-28806J&amp;quot; title=&amp;quot;See cross-reference J&amp;quot;&amp;gt;J&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;)" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top; "&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&amp;nbsp;so also our comfort abounds through Christ.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;span id="en-NIV-28807" class="text 2Cor-1-6"&gt;If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation;&lt;sup class="crossreference" value="(&amp;lt;a href=&amp;quot;#cen-NIV-28807K&amp;quot; title=&amp;quot;See cross-reference K&amp;quot;&amp;gt;K&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;)" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top; "&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&amp;nbsp;if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;span id="en-NIV-28808" class="text 2Cor-1-7"&gt;And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings,&lt;sup class="crossreference" value="(&amp;lt;a href=&amp;quot;#cen-NIV-28808L&amp;quot; title=&amp;quot;See cross-reference L&amp;quot;&amp;gt;L&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;)" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top; "&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&amp;nbsp;so also you share in our comfort." &amp;nbsp;We are comforted by God so then we can comfort others. &amp;nbsp;Let's live it!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ivyXl4a2QJ2hEbFfFThUpfbwjqa5Cy3TMhNpC36DUYLd6YL3reFb3JWHCHfhXp3t8c2ybyGUpyFQ0Km8bet8nwLKP3J1c_dbs4DtBJDA7Xs4HvlnPiOJBQSS9NAhM5zrLzflLw/s640/blogger-image-315865760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ivyXl4a2QJ2hEbFfFThUpfbwjqa5Cy3TMhNpC36DUYLd6YL3reFb3JWHCHfhXp3t8c2ybyGUpyFQ0Km8bet8nwLKP3J1c_dbs4DtBJDA7Xs4HvlnPiOJBQSS9NAhM5zrLzflLw/s640/blogger-image-315865760.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ivyXl4a2QJ2hEbFfFThUpfbwjqa5Cy3TMhNpC36DUYLd6YL3reFb3JWHCHfhXp3t8c2ybyGUpyFQ0Km8bet8nwLKP3J1c_dbs4DtBJDA7Xs4HvlnPiOJBQSS9NAhM5zrLzflLw/s72-c/blogger-image-315865760.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Scandal</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/05/scandal.html</link><pubDate>Sat, 25 May 2013 06:56:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-7938747754354762639</guid><description>&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXPkwbgGfJ2C6KWVV10jfnL1n8DvWvYY8L88ZcmA3uXkpg5RVGUUbOuMze0x8HxhphClC4m7R4gRW_KUK4RuQAa1m3UadSRALEj6kcx2hGdyM8EB8zAON7F-kJklcJXn_6hso9w/s640/blogger-image--2016316941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXPkwbgGfJ2C6KWVV10jfnL1n8DvWvYY8L88ZcmA3uXkpg5RVGUUbOuMze0x8HxhphClC4m7R4gRW_KUK4RuQAa1m3UadSRALEj6kcx2hGdyM8EB8zAON7F-kJklcJXn_6hso9w/s640/blogger-image--2016316941.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both;"&gt;So the headlines are full of political scandals these days. &amp;nbsp;Benghazi-American Lives Lost, Cover Up begins; IRS targeted conservative groups; Justice Department accessed AP reporters personal accounts; Louisiana College professors fired over Calvinism issue/Whistle blower complaints exposed. I watch a show on ABC called "Scandal". &amp;nbsp;Its about a public relations firm whose job is to help politicians caught up in scandals. &amp;nbsp;Often times the firm covers up the scandal, but sometimes they use it to their client's advantage. &amp;nbsp;"Watergate" during the Nixon administration wasn't the first presidential scandal. &amp;nbsp;But it did perhaps do more damage to public trust in modern history than any other scandal. &amp;nbsp;The biggest lesson learned from Watergate was it isn't the scandal that is unforgivable but the cover up. &amp;nbsp;The public feels like they cannot trust the White House on the Benghazi issue. &amp;nbsp;The public who already looked at the Internal Revenue Service with skepticism now sees them as even bigger bullies. &amp;nbsp;All of this points to our weaknesses, moral failures, dishonesty. &amp;nbsp;We are sinners. &amp;nbsp;Full of short-comings. &amp;nbsp;In desperate need to be forgiven, redeemed. &amp;nbsp;Have you ever come clean? &amp;nbsp;Have you ever asked God to forgive you? &amp;nbsp;No more covering up, ask Him to cleanse you and He will. &amp;nbsp;He knows all about your failures, the scandals, and He still loves you. &amp;nbsp;That's amazing grace isn't it? &amp;nbsp;&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXPkwbgGfJ2C6KWVV10jfnL1n8DvWvYY8L88ZcmA3uXkpg5RVGUUbOuMze0x8HxhphClC4m7R4gRW_KUK4RuQAa1m3UadSRALEj6kcx2hGdyM8EB8zAON7F-kJklcJXn_6hso9w/s72-c/blogger-image--2016316941.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Highway to Heaven or Hell</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/04/highway-to-heaven-or-hell.html</link><pubDate>Thu, 4 Apr 2013 18:41:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-2667808592071988573</guid><description>Our new sermon series at Airline Baptist is going to be about Hell.  You've heard the expression 'preaching hellfire and brimstone'.  Usually it isn't mentioned as a compliment.  In fact today's culture would rather laugh and be encouraged when they go to church.  I believe as much as anyone that laughter has a rightful place.  Encouraging sermons can be very timely in the life of church attendees.  But there is also a time for sermons that are in our face, hard core truths, and the kind that step on our toes.  In fact some sermons need to scare the "hell" out of us, pardon the bluntness.  I have been led by The Lord to preach what the Bible says about Hell.  The series begins April 7th.  Airline Baptist in Bossier City 8:15 and 10:45am.  www.airlinebaptist.com &lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVoqBkSQXn8Po_9f0kvoQxj2pWOSwZ7bHL0H8pjDqF1SFCbFNOWvMERn1LAqoF68rB24w5gtA9NjjUEzz3NvV0JlLoP2SZfEI0ak2gEwYhMgtJ8OaKL6wBxiiApm5W2IRAPhulQ/s640/blogger-image--74311168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVoqBkSQXn8Po_9f0kvoQxj2pWOSwZ7bHL0H8pjDqF1SFCbFNOWvMERn1LAqoF68rB24w5gtA9NjjUEzz3NvV0JlLoP2SZfEI0ak2gEwYhMgtJ8OaKL6wBxiiApm5W2IRAPhulQ/s640/blogger-image--74311168.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVoqBkSQXn8Po_9f0kvoQxj2pWOSwZ7bHL0H8pjDqF1SFCbFNOWvMERn1LAqoF68rB24w5gtA9NjjUEzz3NvV0JlLoP2SZfEI0ak2gEwYhMgtJ8OaKL6wBxiiApm5W2IRAPhulQ/s72-c/blogger-image--74311168.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Israel</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/03/israel.html</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 Mar 2013 19:42:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-5723674702495244592</guid><description>I've always found it a little humorous that those who support a "Two State Solution" in Israel don't believe in a two state solution for our country, namely among the Native Americans.  Not to mention there already exists two states, in fact multiple states/Arab territories.  Jordan.  Syria.  Lebanon.  Egypt.  Iraq.  These are Arab states.  Notice I didn't include Iran, they are not Arabs, but Persians.  There is a 4,000 year record of Jews residing in modern day Israel.  Palestinians have very little evidence to show a 100 year record of residency.  In fact the term Palestinian is even a newer expression, a slight deviation from the term "Philistine".  After the British mandate period, there was an option for "Two States".  Check the historical record, the Arabs refused.  They wanted only one state/territory and wouldn't even meet with the Jews.  Post British mandate the creation of TransJordan came about, and the Arabs were given Jordan.  The countries surrounding Israel all are fairly young in age, not even in existence until the 20th century.  It is interesting to note that modern day Israel was primarily a back water no man's land, that no one wanted.  No one wanted until the creation of the State of Israel.  The boundaries of Israel today are not the broader boundaries promised to Abraham, that will come at a future date.  American politicians would be wise to remember the promise of Genesis 12 that God will bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse Israel.   &lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaGeOxuFRnHgr2kfHXYUlZipUaqz7wxrfBn8CCnuPSQRE2OeKVEPzKtGXiLfAXk_9-axJLyKHtZAuIzRhAUziIUB2PnbXvyKLopVbRhyywR3OxR9l_KWw1bVrZoCAh_Cg_4rg0A/s640/blogger-image-78701709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaGeOxuFRnHgr2kfHXYUlZipUaqz7wxrfBn8CCnuPSQRE2OeKVEPzKtGXiLfAXk_9-axJLyKHtZAuIzRhAUziIUB2PnbXvyKLopVbRhyywR3OxR9l_KWw1bVrZoCAh_Cg_4rg0A/s640/blogger-image-78701709.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaGeOxuFRnHgr2kfHXYUlZipUaqz7wxrfBn8CCnuPSQRE2OeKVEPzKtGXiLfAXk_9-axJLyKHtZAuIzRhAUziIUB2PnbXvyKLopVbRhyywR3OxR9l_KWw1bVrZoCAh_Cg_4rg0A/s72-c/blogger-image-78701709.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Update*</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2013/01/update.html</link><pubDate>Fri, 18 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-4802049653421396486</guid><description>So I started my diet before Christmas much to the dismay and disdain of many.  The naysayers said it is a terrible time to diet.  Many encouraged me to wait, or as it is truly described, procrastinate.  But I started my diet and now one month later I am down a total 12 pounds.  It feels good, great in fact.  Cutting back on calories, focusing on portion control and reducing carbs.    I'm glad I started when I did.  I'm glad I didn't put it off.  That is where we mess up, we say we will start our diet tomorrow, we will work on our budget tomorrow, we will do our Quiet Time tomorrow, etc. etc.  Just do it!  Start today.  Don't delay.  Get started and watch what happens!</description><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>It's Not a Good Time</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2012/12/its-not-good-time.html</link><pubDate>Sat, 22 Dec 2012 21:40:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-6460280488852664496</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqg1glzosRCJCA6Fs1wCjn1qdA7Z8Q5JcJM-ui7s6wqmfyqsLtSD95iNXO52_gHHLRNbLKwSkhd134MfNjVU2udujAMR93z83EMmytRsZd3sHTk5JhxjjQ1SiP__xS2W9WQGROw/s1600/time-is-now.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" eea="true" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqg1glzosRCJCA6Fs1wCjn1qdA7Z8Q5JcJM-ui7s6wqmfyqsLtSD95iNXO52_gHHLRNbLKwSkhd134MfNjVU2udujAMR93z83EMmytRsZd3sHTk5JhxjjQ1SiP__xS2W9WQGROw/s320/time-is-now.jpg" width="320" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
So I started a diet over a week ago.&amp;nbsp; So far I've lost around 8 days...just kidding.&amp;nbsp; I'm down by 4 pounds!&amp;nbsp; Someone made mention this is a terrible time to be on a diet.&amp;nbsp; Actually it is the best time!&amp;nbsp; The best time is always now!&amp;nbsp; That is our problem.&amp;nbsp; We procrastinate.&amp;nbsp; We wait until it's too late.&amp;nbsp; Opportunities pass us by.&amp;nbsp; You see the holidays for me have always been tough, I pack on an extra 5-10 pounds.&amp;nbsp; So why not start cutting back and learn to resist the temptations of sweets.&amp;nbsp; I mean after all your diet will be harder to start if you wait until the first of the year with those extra holiday pounds.&amp;nbsp; I love the story of the bride and groom who waited until the perfect time to get married.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;The bride white of hair stooped over her cane; Her legs uncertain, needed guiding; And across the church aisle, With a big toothless smile, The groom in a wheelchair came riding. Who is this elderly couple thus wed? You’ll find, if you’ve closely explored it, That this is that rare, Most conservative pair That waited till they could afford it.&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;
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The perfect time is now!&amp;nbsp; Don't wait, go for it!&amp;nbsp; Whatever it is, whatever decision you've been putting off, move...get up...go for it!&amp;nbsp; Stop using the excuse, "It's not a good time."&amp;nbsp; God has given you the moment.&amp;nbsp; He hasn't guaranteed tomorrow.&amp;nbsp; But we do have right now.&lt;br /&gt;
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</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqg1glzosRCJCA6Fs1wCjn1qdA7Z8Q5JcJM-ui7s6wqmfyqsLtSD95iNXO52_gHHLRNbLKwSkhd134MfNjVU2udujAMR93z83EMmytRsZd3sHTk5JhxjjQ1SiP__xS2W9WQGROw/s72-c/time-is-now.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Troubled World but A Peaceful Soul</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2012/12/troubled-world-but-peaceful-soul.html</link><pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:52:00 -0600</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-3310220200612423744</guid><description>The tragic news of the school shooting and the terrible loss of lives stirs questions of why and how can there be so much evil in the world? &amp;nbsp;Today I attended the funeral of a 66 year old church member. &amp;nbsp;Just last night I got word a lady was killed in an auto accident, I just spoke at a company Christmas party she attended last Friday. &amp;nbsp;Death and suffering are all around us. &amp;nbsp;Tragic events lead the news programs daily. &amp;nbsp;All of this serves to remind us that this life is short. &amp;nbsp;This world is fallen. Sin, sickness and sorrow have cursed this world since the Fall. &amp;nbsp;So how do we make sense of it all? &amp;nbsp;Tragedies right before Christmas? &amp;nbsp;School shootings? &amp;nbsp;Horatio Spafford was no stranger to pain or the loss of loved ones. &amp;nbsp;He lost one son to Scarlet Fever. &amp;nbsp;He lost his wealth and possessions in the Chicago fire. &amp;nbsp;In one tragic ship wreck he lost four daughters. &amp;nbsp;He is the writer of the great hymn, "It is Well With My Soul". &amp;nbsp;He understood our anchor in this troubled world is Christ Jesus! &amp;nbsp;He is our Peace in the midst of suffering and tragedy.&lt;br /&gt;
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&lt;span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"&gt;When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,&lt;br /&gt;When sorrows like sea billows roll;&lt;br /&gt;Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, it is well, with my soul.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;i&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, it is well, with my soul.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/i&gt;Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,&lt;br /&gt;Let this blest assurance control,&lt;br /&gt;That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,&lt;br /&gt;And hath shed His own blood for my soul.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;i&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, it is well, with my soul.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/i&gt;My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!&lt;br /&gt;My sin, not in part but the whole,&lt;br /&gt;Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,&lt;br /&gt;Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;i&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, it is well, with my soul.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/i&gt;And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,&lt;br /&gt;The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;&lt;br /&gt;The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,&lt;br /&gt;Even so, it is well with my soul.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;i&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, with my soul,&lt;br /&gt;It is well, it is well, with my soul.&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>The Chick-Fil-A Vote</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-chick-fil-vote.html</link><pubDate>Thu, 1 Nov 2012 09:02:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-8497604140186367088</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcTP5vvb_9nQ7ra1_1WjCgCOTvKQUzEoYHDGv5TQVgotT61TR-mCLhcDLAA_c_f25upMrMdm8ydPKY6GKEyCAFT0BvxFUEY462BToFSmT1LNTJLl0nfi9Tumm0m69saSWnAr0Bw/s1600/8ec15bbf1720d8c060be2dc366993129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcTP5vvb_9nQ7ra1_1WjCgCOTvKQUzEoYHDGv5TQVgotT61TR-mCLhcDLAA_c_f25upMrMdm8ydPKY6GKEyCAFT0BvxFUEY462BToFSmT1LNTJLl0nfi9Tumm0m69saSWnAr0Bw/s320/8ec15bbf1720d8c060be2dc366993129.jpg" width="320" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
So everyone wants to put in their two cents about the election.&amp;nbsp; People are studying the polls, pundits are predicting and pontificating.&amp;nbsp; We will know the results Tuesday, or maybe Wednesday morning.&amp;nbsp; Let's all pray it doesn't get drawn out like the 2000 presidential election.&amp;nbsp; Not sure my heart/blood pressure can take another election like that.&amp;nbsp; Let us all take a moment to thank God we live in a free country where we have the right to elect our leaders.&amp;nbsp; Thank God we have freedoms and liberties, we shouldn't take them for granted.&amp;nbsp; I mentioned back in September right after the ChickFilA appreciation day and all the news that garnered, that the "ChickFilA Vote" could make a difference in November.&amp;nbsp; On Tuesday, October 30th I stood in line at the courthouse to vote early.&amp;nbsp; I'm not one for lines.&amp;nbsp; But I did stand in line back in August to buy the best Chicken Sandwich in the world and I did stand in line to vote early.&amp;nbsp; As I stood in the voting line I sensed many were enthused about this election.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;I sense a surge of patriotism and it appears the "Value Voters" are energized.&amp;nbsp; I will not make a prediction here, and I won't make an endorsement.&amp;nbsp; I believe each person should vote their own convictions and vote for the good of the country.&amp;nbsp; But I still believe the ChickFilA vote will have an impact on November 6, 2012.&lt;br /&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcTP5vvb_9nQ7ra1_1WjCgCOTvKQUzEoYHDGv5TQVgotT61TR-mCLhcDLAA_c_f25upMrMdm8ydPKY6GKEyCAFT0BvxFUEY462BToFSmT1LNTJLl0nfi9Tumm0m69saSWnAr0Bw/s72-c/8ec15bbf1720d8c060be2dc366993129.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">1</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Freedom of speech</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2012/09/freedom-of-speech.html</link><pubDate>Fri, 14 Sep 2012 17:49:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-3886574137729152888</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4v3j7mI-4e1A1uEFfHzvB3IKg325c-krNrP66FUz28rkBgiBGrfVnseZFI40dZ1MBRTtDE949hHh7aYUHoOyZHPkEP8fc3NfzM6VLMvYvLO9WxAA9HaDe_tBt5Y2Lf3ykJSFRUg/s1600/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4v3j7mI-4e1A1uEFfHzvB3IKg325c-krNrP66FUz28rkBgiBGrfVnseZFI40dZ1MBRTtDE949hHh7aYUHoOyZHPkEP8fc3NfzM6VLMvYvLO9WxAA9HaDe_tBt5Y2Lf3ykJSFRUg/s320/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" width="235" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
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&lt;a href="http://www.speakupmovement.org/church/LearnMore/details/4702"&gt;Pulpit Freedom&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
So who determines what the preacher preaches?&amp;nbsp; A committee?&amp;nbsp; A council?&amp;nbsp; The Deacons?&amp;nbsp; The Internal Revenue Service?&amp;nbsp; This is a crucial issue in our day.&amp;nbsp; There are those who cry out, "There shouldn't be any politics from the pulpit."&amp;nbsp; Should preachers remain silent on issues of morality, or what about issues that directly impact the community?&amp;nbsp; Do preachers forfeit their 1st Amendment right when they are ordained into the Gospel ministry?&amp;nbsp; If you have ever heard one of my sermons you know my answers to the questions above.&amp;nbsp; You know I am not afraid to take a stand on issues, and you know that my heart is motivated by passion and compassion.&amp;nbsp; Throughout our history as a nation ministers have helped to inform the public, they have taken public stands on issues pertaining to slavery, civil rights, Women's Suffrage (check the facts liberals), prohibition, gambling, etc.&amp;nbsp; People like Jonas Clarke, a pastor in Lexington, played a very instrumental role in the "shot heard around the world" that led to our Declaration of Independence.&amp;nbsp; Today in our politically correct culture there seems to be a growing concensus to silence the preacher on cultural issues.&amp;nbsp; Were the Prophets silent on issues facing the people?&amp;nbsp; In Judaism the Synagogue is a very active cultural, political and social gathering place.&amp;nbsp; I'm thankful to serve in a church that stands on the Word of God, and supports preaching on the cultural issues.&amp;nbsp; In fact I believe the pulpit in America today is partially responsible for the mess we are in.&amp;nbsp; The fear and ignorance of the law have caused many preachers to avoid the "Hot Topics".&amp;nbsp; Those preachers cater to the "Make Me Feel Good" crowd in their churches.&amp;nbsp; Their sermons are filled with fluff and short on truth.&amp;nbsp; The move to get rid of what is labeled "Hate Speech" has led to the arrests of ministers.&amp;nbsp; Click here: &lt;a href="http://www.albertmohler.com/2010/05/04/its-getting-dangerous-out-there-a-preacher-is-arrested-in-britain/"&gt;Pastor Arrested&lt;/a&gt;.&amp;nbsp; My philosophy is simple, I am called by God to preach His Word (2 Timothy 4:2).&amp;nbsp; I am led by God to proclaim His truth.&amp;nbsp; I preach His Word unapologetically and boldly.&amp;nbsp; I don't politicize the pulpit, it is too sacred for that, I do address the issues facing my congregation, community and culture.&amp;nbsp; On the day I was ordained in the gospel ministry I didn't surrender my 1st Amendment right.&amp;nbsp; Therefore, I preach the Word and take a stand!&amp;nbsp; Stand with me before it is too late!!!</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4v3j7mI-4e1A1uEFfHzvB3IKg325c-krNrP66FUz28rkBgiBGrfVnseZFI40dZ1MBRTtDE949hHh7aYUHoOyZHPkEP8fc3NfzM6VLMvYvLO9WxAA9HaDe_tBt5Y2Lf3ykJSFRUg/s72-c/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">1</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title>Holy Land 2013</title><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2012/08/holy-land-2013.html</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Aug 2012 15:44:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-887235406130011742</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
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&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUULdIu4XhUPgcR7MatzVtbpvzQtJpAb1cMbHg_-_aWDcDQbzskhVqhBLcdoqcHMxp3UmMzvrIb6WmSnesyq4BJGYYHhTeLTuHOPNwjn_fyQmpAWXPoyk8oDvgW7ycrbVR1RE6g/s1600/Israel+2010+325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUULdIu4XhUPgcR7MatzVtbpvzQtJpAb1cMbHg_-_aWDcDQbzskhVqhBLcdoqcHMxp3UmMzvrIb6WmSnesyq4BJGYYHhTeLTuHOPNwjn_fyQmpAWXPoyk8oDvgW7ycrbVR1RE6g/s320/Israel+2010+325.jpg" width="320" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
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I have had the great privilege and honor to serve as a tour host for Holy Land tours. &amp;nbsp;A trip to Israel is like no other experience. &amp;nbsp;It is a very spiritual experience and we walk in the footsteps of Jesus! &amp;nbsp;The land of the bible is a diverse geography. &amp;nbsp;If you go you will see the Mediterranean Sea, gorgeous snow-capped mountains, dry Judean desert, lush waterfalls, salt pillars on the shore of the Dead Sea, ride a boat on the Sea of Galilee just to name a few. &amp;nbsp;I am planning another tour in February 2013 and would love to take you with me. &amp;nbsp;Full color brochures with lots of information are available. &amp;nbsp;Call our church office, 318-746-3495. &amp;nbsp;Pray now about this once in a lifetime experience!&lt;/div&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUULdIu4XhUPgcR7MatzVtbpvzQtJpAb1cMbHg_-_aWDcDQbzskhVqhBLcdoqcHMxp3UmMzvrIb6WmSnesyq4BJGYYHhTeLTuHOPNwjn_fyQmpAWXPoyk8oDvgW7ycrbVR1RE6g/s72-c/Israel+2010+325.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title/><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2012/06/news-article-i-just-watched-nik.html</link><pubDate>Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:55:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-3213604680276850131</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxfEi0TpwnFUVAXzuK721BJ7I7a9FrYybcqcqcMVNl4VyyFTnaOjNs5BVrXSa-BxGmCsoc3zkpBxpdHX5j6mEuWIorldneEceB9tSNJuGRBazcXCxTDnvSbYGoPclGqECE7UGWjw/s1600/odd_nik_wallenda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" height="171" pca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxfEi0TpwnFUVAXzuK721BJ7I7a9FrYybcqcqcMVNl4VyyFTnaOjNs5BVrXSa-BxGmCsoc3zkpBxpdHX5j6mEuWIorldneEceB9tSNJuGRBazcXCxTDnvSbYGoPclGqECE7UGWjw/s320/odd_nik_wallenda.jpg" width="320" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
&lt;a href="http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/06/15/nik-wallenda-begins-niagara-falls-tightrope-walk-before-spectators-television-viewers/"&gt;News Article&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
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I just watched Nik Wallenda, a man of God, walk across a high wire suspended over Niagra Falls!&amp;nbsp; I nearly broke out in a sweat watching this daredevil.&amp;nbsp; Winds were blowing, the mist from the falls soaked his clothing and shoes, not to mention the highwire.&amp;nbsp; It all made for great television.&amp;nbsp; But much more than that, this man of God kept saying, "Thank you Jesus!"&amp;nbsp; "I love you Father!"&amp;nbsp; "Praise Jesus!"&amp;nbsp; Wow!&amp;nbsp; He was a great witness for Christ and he used every opportunity to talk about God.&amp;nbsp; In all things we can glorify God.&amp;nbsp; Way to Go Nick!&amp;nbsp; You made me nervous but I am thankful you made it all the way across and did it all for the GLORY OF GOD!&lt;br /&gt;</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxfEi0TpwnFUVAXzuK721BJ7I7a9FrYybcqcqcMVNl4VyyFTnaOjNs5BVrXSa-BxGmCsoc3zkpBxpdHX5j6mEuWIorldneEceB9tSNJuGRBazcXCxTDnvSbYGoPclGqECE7UGWjw/s72-c/odd_nik_wallenda.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">0</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item><item><title/><link>http://chadmills.blogspot.com/2012/05/growing-up-i-was-huge-fan-of-television.html</link><pubDate>Tue, 22 May 2012 10:49:00 -0500</pubDate><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23826641.post-4897838444058052448</guid><description>&lt;div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"&gt;
&lt;a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdDMXyC_8lUDi7y-rWv6UqsSx-RKDfKZsyUUZm4_toIlMN5TSX0NJ5Ve7gACpj1h7RdnzklNRKc9Lq9nIxqXnEf9ahpCaNpPrEWUSa4TNblmgYlphEYtFhQS0luIQn4YLpJaYrQ/s1600/Billbixby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"&gt;&lt;img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdDMXyC_8lUDi7y-rWv6UqsSx-RKDfKZsyUUZm4_toIlMN5TSX0NJ5Ve7gACpj1h7RdnzklNRKc9Lq9nIxqXnEf9ahpCaNpPrEWUSa4TNblmgYlphEYtFhQS0luIQn4YLpJaYrQ/s320/Billbixby.jpg" width="254" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
Growing up I was a huge fan of the television series "The Incredible Hulk".&amp;nbsp; Friday nights were about The Hulk and the Dukes of Hazaard.&amp;nbsp; Whatever happened to great televion, I digress.&amp;nbsp; Dr. David Bruce Banner experimented with gama radiation to study why people in certain crisis had superhuman&amp;nbsp;strength.&amp;nbsp; In the opening episode it shows the word ANGER on the screen as the camera&amp;nbsp;draws back it reveals the word DANGER.&amp;nbsp; Anger can be dangerous.&amp;nbsp; Dr. Banner would warn people, "Don't make me angry, you wouldn't like me when I'm angry."&amp;nbsp; Banner was a small guy, not very intimidating at all.&amp;nbsp; But the bullies didn't know about the green 6'5" hulking monster.&amp;nbsp; Anger can be danger.&amp;nbsp; Ephesians 4:26 reminds us "Be angry, but sin not.&amp;nbsp; Don't let the sun go down on your anger."&amp;nbsp; Anger repressed can lead to depression or violent outbursts.&amp;nbsp; We should deal with our anger in a healthy way.&amp;nbsp; There is such a thing as righteous indignation.&amp;nbsp; In fact this kind of anger handled in the proper way can lead to great reforms, changes, crusades and injustices overturned.&amp;nbsp; Mother Teresa was angry about the starving disease infected children dying on the streets of Calcutta and decided to do something about it.&amp;nbsp; Jesus showed righteous anger on two occasions when he enterned the temple and was disturbed by what people were doing.&amp;nbsp; When we use our anger in the correct way, like any of our emotions, it can lead to great things.&amp;nbsp; Dr. Banner only used the Hulk to right some wrongs, to defend victims, to stop crimes and to help people.&amp;nbsp; Yield to the Holy Spirit, give Him control of your emotions and ask Him to use your passions for His glory!</description><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" height="72" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdDMXyC_8lUDi7y-rWv6UqsSx-RKDfKZsyUUZm4_toIlMN5TSX0NJ5Ve7gACpj1h7RdnzklNRKc9Lq9nIxqXnEf9ahpCaNpPrEWUSa4TNblmgYlphEYtFhQS0luIQn4YLpJaYrQ/s72-c/Billbixby.jpg" width="72"/><thr:total xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0">2</thr:total><author>chad@firstbaptistoilcity.com (Chad H. Mills)</author></item></channel></rss>