tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48232749201867959772024-03-12T21:48:24.704-05:00Frontline Outreach Ministries"...and you shall be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." Acts 1:8Jason Whatleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253949610831338599noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-24396874841989458822010-02-18T17:45:00.002-06:002010-02-18T17:47:03.836-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-qXMPwpsayG21xVdU7j0LosIKE0XyjgFYMFQtSoMKXSeHI1dvIKSh2kMXV7dcRoznfzODJ-_eLn7YsdfksmMjYgVsgfHEzDpnOBGfq9YaEnzvlkWs78_bfS_104DTckwBYkX34bRmMo/s1600-h/zzzzzlight.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439734201242194626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-qXMPwpsayG21xVdU7j0LosIKE0XyjgFYMFQtSoMKXSeHI1dvIKSh2kMXV7dcRoznfzODJ-_eLn7YsdfksmMjYgVsgfHEzDpnOBGfq9YaEnzvlkWs78_bfS_104DTckwBYkX34bRmMo/s400/zzzzzlight.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Just wanted to share this photo as an encouragment.<br /><br /><span style="color:#990000;">For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8 NKJV)</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#003333;">God bless<br />Tom 1 John 3:16</span></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-66237918582381879252010-02-08T17:49:00.003-06:002010-02-08T18:28:03.329-06:00<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dymBzZJei9BdsY3khO_RAazeK7POr1q_9SKZet5uGmwLtS8QYXgWojPEBhzRhZZEhzkFvYRDYoqQ38B_940bg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-10732417660331167232010-01-12T15:27:00.005-06:002010-01-12T15:40:29.790-06:00No man's hands<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduyEJvkI7pPMGJeo0I6pmXwT-hxml6KQbdu_ye9pvQKaWiv4XSkSG3SM9U-MuKNuZxfYF6TIkw05kxd6xVQp8r4791kPGVAL2oq0IplKtsrFLb_Sy_k3_I_3YfH9hX9RJDMIRgZvZsdM/s1600-h/zzzzzzzzccc.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425971399877771938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduyEJvkI7pPMGJeo0I6pmXwT-hxml6KQbdu_ye9pvQKaWiv4XSkSG3SM9U-MuKNuZxfYF6TIkw05kxd6xVQp8r4791kPGVAL2oq0IplKtsrFLb_Sy_k3_I_3YfH9hX9RJDMIRgZvZsdM/s400/zzzzzzzzccc.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="left"><br /><span style="color:#000099;">The following is an article I wrote out of deep conviction and concern. I pray it is not to wordy, but it is written from much experience and trails. I am a slow learner. I have come to understand these desert places, these times of loneliness. I can only hope this may bring encouragement to another. --- T.F.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong><span style="color:#333300;">No man's hands.</span></strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><em>As you looked, a stone was cut out by no human hand, and it smote the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces; (Daniel 2:34 RSV)</em></strong><br /></span><br /><span style="color:#666600;">When God calls a man, He calls him unto Himself. There will be no man's hands in it. No molding by the wisdom of this age. He draws you by His Spirit, out into the wilderness of testing, trials, the breaking that one must go through, in order to be a vessel, the chalice to be filled and spilled. God does not need any help from man; especially our own. It is in the desert, the school of loneliness, we learn that our help comes from God alone. This is the place of the calling. It is here only One voice is heard. His hand is upon us to mold and shape us. It needs not the false frivolous misleading deception, we have today. Beware of any who come up to you, wanting to lay their hand on you, claiming they have a very special prophecy for you. They often come on spiritual, humble, but they themselves walk in the vanity of their own imagination. They want to lure you to their way of thinking, their altars that have been hewn by the hands of men. I do not pay heed to any today who think themselves prophets. They act as if they are a conduit of God's a special anointing, with a special word to those who are foolish enough to listen. God's Word alone cuts deep to the heart. A true prophet today is a man proclaiming the Word of God, by the power of God. Ask yourself: Is there anything you need more than the Word of God? Is there something more powerful than this? I think not? Why look to man and his high built temples of rubbish? These heaps of foolish pride, draw those who will not stand alone in Christ.</span> </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em>It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in man. (Psalms 118:8 NKJV)<br /></em></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#666600;">We are called to the Higher calling, that is Christ alone. Our fellowship halls were never a place for us to congregate, stagnate around the ideas of men. They should be the staging grounds where we are equipped with the Armor of the Lord. We are to be sent out to fight the good fight of faith. We are to look up to where our help comes, in God alone. My friend, if you are drawn to some organization, some man, because of what they promise, beware. Unless you have been called alone onto God, to His refiners fire, you are not being set apart, you are being deceived by the will of man.</span> </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong><em>"I will lift up my eyes to the hills-From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in From this time forth, and even forevermore." (Psalms 121:1-8 NKJV)<br /></em></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#666600;">Since I came to the cross, redeemed by His blood, set apart by His mercy, I have seen and experienced many movements throughout the years. Seems to be, about every six month or more another book, another man comes up with a gimmick, to draw attention to themselves. The gullible love it so. The young who hunger for truth, are often swayed by these glib tongue power hungry wolves. Now there is a movement in the Midwest in which they think they are going to pray back the coming of the Lord. They think they can manipulate the Living God, the Solid Rock. It is like any hyped up rock concert, where thousands are moved by the excitement. Gooses bumps rise, the flesh is moved into a frenzy, many run forward confessing conversion, more scalps to add to the evangelist belt. However, if the truth be told, we find the majority of these so called conversion, shipwrecked by the wayside, less than six moths later. Why? They never came to the cross, they were caught up in the frenzy, moved by the movement, the goose bumps. It is only the Spirit of God, that draws the hungry heart who searches for truth. Its not the hype of the hour, but the Word of God. When men are moved into the will of God, they are drawn to the true fire of revival; it is the unction from above, not the function from below, the false fire that entices the flesh, tickles the ears. When Jesus called, He said come follow Me, not go join this movement, till the next one comes along, than go after another. There is a monster amongst us, deceiving the hearts of many, trying to fit the Lord's way, into man's way of life. However, it is what Paul warned Timothy about:</span> <span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em>For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 3:2-7 NKJV)</em></strong></span> </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#666600;">In Daniel the second chapter we read of this great statue, this image that Nebuchadnezzar dreamed about. This massive structure was a vision of the empires of man, those that stood that day, and those that would come. Man's greatest achievements, was seen in the dream of Nebuchadnezzar. To this king it was an awesome sight to behold. </span><span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em>"You, O king, were watching; and behold, a great image! This great image, whose splendor was excellent, stood before you; and its form was awesome. (Daniel 2:31 NKJV) </em></strong></span><span style="color:#666600;">Is this not what attracts men, all that which looks awesome, great in splendor to our natural senses? I am sure Nebuchadnezzar was impressed and awestruck by it all. This dream, included Nebuchadnezzar great kingdom. All that he was so proud of was portrayed in his vision. Many today are so impressed by what man has built up, the bigger the better. This unfortunately has been the plumb line for many Christians to measure things by. They think because there is so much hype, such beauty to the eyes, such excitement that it draws thousand, than it must be good. Like the children who followed the Pied Piper, that if it sounds good, excites the flesh, it must be right. We do not measure a tree by the beauty of its flower, but by its fruit. Is it poison fruit, or is it good fruit, that is the test. Only one way to do that, and it is the Word of God in context, through His Spirit, does true discernment come. Every man has to give an account of what they believe. Flee from those who say they do not have to give an answer to what they are putting forth. Sounds humble to foolish followers, but a lie nonetheless:</span> </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em>Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jude 1:3-4 NKJV)<br /></em></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em>Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:4-5 NKJV)</em></strong></span> <span style="color:#666600;">We are being built up as living stones. Each of us set apart by the hand of God for His good purpose. God shares His glory with no man, no matter how humble they may seem, or how awesome they are too behold. When God calls a man, it will be to the place in which one is broken. The Lord will expose us of what we are and who we are; nothing but the dust of the ground. It is not a pleasant place, however, it is the place of fire that burns the chaff away. When one comes out of the furnaces of His molding and shaping, there will be no pride, no arrogance, no kingdoms on this earth to build. All will be counted as loss for Christ Jesus. Except for those who truly long for righteousness, this is not what men are drawn too. My friend, if you are reading this, and you are caught up into some movement, some flash in the pan enterprise, centered around a man, or a group of men, flee. You are on the highway of pride. Escape! Find a place where you can spend weeks, or months alone in His Word. His truth never fails. I know that if any man who hungers for truth, draws away from the noise of this hour of hype and excitement, to be alone with the Author of life, they will come out of that School of Loneliness set apart for the purpose of being a vessel for His honor, His glory. There will be no fanaticism, no showboat fashion shows, in the name of Christianity. Like all those who have gone on before us, there will only be one cry from the heart that will go forth in His truth:</span> </span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#660000;"><strong><em>"He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:30 NKJV)<br /></em></strong></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">"And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. (Daniel 2:44 NKJV)</span></em></strong> <span style="color:#666600;">That stone cut out from the mountain in Daniel's dream, we know is Christ and His kingdom. Nothing breaches the empire's of darkness but the Kingdom of Light. We cannot live by the standards and wisdom of this age, but by the word of God. We live in this world, eat of its bread, work in it, nonetheless, we a re sojourns passing through. Our time here is for a moment, it is our hour to shine as children of His grace. We are held to His word. When we enter the desert of testing, the devil tempts us to take from his hands, what we think we need. However, our response must be the same as our Lord:</span> </span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#990000;"><strong><em>"But He answered and said, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" (Matthew 4:4 NKJV)<br /></em></strong></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#666600;">I believe the greatest sin of man is pride. He wants to be something, somebody who is noticed, set high on the throne of arrogance. Fallen man wants to be observed. This is the fruit and nature of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. The hardest thing for us is to except, is the fact that without God in our lives, we are nothing but a worm, the dust of the earth. There is no life outside of Christ. Without the cross, death, darkness is in the heart of us all. We were created to walk with God, to live and breath, have our being in Him alone. No true life is drawn outside of Him. It is death to be separated from Him. The fall brought forth this death, and it has been the way of the world since. Only at the cross, through Christ offering, the New Adam, the only Son of God, can a man understand, and come to life in Christ. Outside of the cross there is nothing but loss. Everything that boast in its strength will one day soon go back to the earth from which it came. Eternal separation is darkness, there is no light, no hope. We will never arise above pride, until we truly learn to draw our life from the Tree of Life</span>.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em> Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits, The God of our salvation! Selah Our God is the God of salvation; And to GOD the Lord belong escapes from death. (Psalms 68:19-20 NKJV)<br /></em></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#666600;">Are you in a place where you feel so alone, so rejected, that you wonder why God would allow such a desert, a wilderness of despondency? Has all seemed to collapses before you, and like Job, you find such shallowness in the wisdom of friends and foes. Do not look for any answer in the activity outside of this desert place. It has been in this place that I have learned what it means to trust, to look up. We so often talk about trust, but when the storm rages we look to this world for answers. There is none. It does not matter how spiritual it looks, or how many weeks it has been on the number one best sellers list, it is but dust in the wind. Young man or woman, why do you run to another movement, another method, trying to find another spiritual high, trying to find your place? It is in this barren place, the time alone, where there is no help from the hands of man, that you will find the true help from above. This is the place where we see what utter failures we are. All else we have ever looked to, has been a dung heap of confusion. Rest in the One you claim you follow, and you will arise in the strength of the Holy Spirit. Abide in the Vine, your fruit will remain. The Israelites wondered in the wilderness for forty years, because they did not trust in the One who lead them by day by a cloud, by night by fire. He who never sleeps or slumbers, fed them manna from above. Their sandals never wore out, their clothes did not fall prey to weather. God, their only source. However, when they came to the place of promise to enter in, they ran in fear, because of the foes they faced. Do we not do the same? Have we not drawn back in dread, because there have been obstacles, giants before us. No man's hands can deliver us, it is Christ alone. Rest assured, you will find no help in another. He is our Solid Rock our sure Foundation. he has called each of us to enter His rest, sometimes it takes a long stretch in the School of Loneliness to learn that it is in no man's hands:</span> </span><strong><em><span style="color:#990000;"><span style="font-size:130%;">The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, And the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose; It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, Even with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, The excellence of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the LORD, The excellency of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, And make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are fearful-hearted, "Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, With the recompense of God; He will come and save you." (Isaiah 35:1-4 NKJV)</span><br /><br /></span></em></strong>In Christ love & service<br />T.M. Faunce 1 John 3:16</div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-70148953124559570732010-01-08T16:51:00.002-06:002010-01-08T17:21:06.371-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEpkS9kSfU0J5np7IRWpRkoRaQAwmGrl9vLb8WL3s4WTKHMLXSpiBBoSCDW-eOwBNE_lnuHe83G9OkvzX7rFwLAVSnweFZCzXo7yk8xF9ZdH0SgbfWYAZg7xaoAtbu3kN98NoNvfHQJU/s1600-h/zzzzheights.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424512998540166946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEpkS9kSfU0J5np7IRWpRkoRaQAwmGrl9vLb8WL3s4WTKHMLXSpiBBoSCDW-eOwBNE_lnuHe83G9OkvzX7rFwLAVSnweFZCzXo7yk8xF9ZdH0SgbfWYAZg7xaoAtbu3kN98NoNvfHQJU/s400/zzzzheights.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">I found the following daily devotion by Charles Spurgeopn convicting and challenging: "The iniquity of the holy things." --</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663333;">"The iniquity of the holy things." --Exodus 28:38 </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663333;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663333;">What a veil is lifted up by these words, and what a disclosure is made! It will be humbling and profitable for us to pause awhile and see this sad sight. The iniquities of our public worship, its hypocrisy, formality, lukewarmness, irreverence, wandering of heart and forgetfulness of God, what a full measure have we there! Our work for the Lord, its emulation, selfishness, carelessness, slackness, unbelief, what a mass of defilement is there! Our private devotions, their laxity, coldness, neglect, sleepiness, and vanity, what a mountain of dead earth is there! If we looked more carefully we should find this iniquity to be far greater than appears at first sight. Dr. Payson, writing to his brother, says, "My parish, as well as my heart, very much resembles the garden of the sluggard; and what is worse, I find that very many of my desires for the melioration of both, proceed either from pride or vanity or indolence. I look at the weeds which overspread my garden, and breathe out an earnest wish that they were eradicated. But why? What prompts the wish? It may be that I may walk out and say to myself, 'In what fine order is my garden kept!' This is pride. Or, it may be that my neighbours may look over the wall and say, 'How finely your garden flourishes!' This is vanity. Or I may wish for the destruction of the weeds, because I am weary of pulling them up. This is indolence." So that even our desires after holiness may be polluted by ill motives. Under the greenest sods worms hide themselves; we need not look long to discover them. How cheering is the thought, that when the High Priest bore the iniquity of the holy things he wore upon his brow the words, "HOLINESS TO THE LORD:" and even so while Jesus bears our sin, He presents before His Father's face not our unholiness, but his own holiness. O for grace to view our great High Priest by the eye of faith!</span></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-81052556615933074622010-01-06T13:17:00.002-06:002010-01-06T13:21:55.645-06:00I like this one. I took the photo of the Lighthouse a few summers back, the eagle this past summer. I combined the two to get this result.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4vR2gMAJ5Itf_p840ZgThdzHeFWNkTeTIloiqCMZorzLiKAsB_jN5LLFw32WUWzGk-a5V2U-zwgAcBD0w5RlCoCxMmy6o-ifTFrs8fnwfYmbA8oNyB3aMA_r6dyKE9zhdcisFzuprK4/s1600-h/lzzzzzzzzztttttttt+Park_edited-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423708618765915138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4vR2gMAJ5Itf_p840ZgThdzHeFWNkTeTIloiqCMZorzLiKAsB_jN5LLFw32WUWzGk-a5V2U-zwgAcBD0w5RlCoCxMmy6o-ifTFrs8fnwfYmbA8oNyB3aMA_r6dyKE9zhdcisFzuprK4/s400/lzzzzzzzzztttttttt+Park_edited-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-49166628145938553292010-01-05T17:48:00.003-06:002010-01-05T17:54:09.473-06:00New Year Letter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqOMLyRDqE-W1ZM7OWwgJy3K-0gZwk91GDiJnn-x0c7-jiwF91mJpyqfMEJMxYyDXrTZdli2i9Ose4w1TweY_4q6azxJNMnv7JoAlYPnKhyphenhyphenczEA7UapQkZs6CzI0iT1qx3T1zCmCi25U/s1600-h/zzzzzzzmysong.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423408281741704066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 268px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqOMLyRDqE-W1ZM7OWwgJy3K-0gZwk91GDiJnn-x0c7-jiwF91mJpyqfMEJMxYyDXrTZdli2i9Ose4w1TweY_4q6azxJNMnv7JoAlYPnKhyphenhyphenczEA7UapQkZs6CzI0iT1qx3T1zCmCi25U/s400/zzzzzzzmysong.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;">Dear Friends<br /></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;">Another year upon us, another decade. Last year for many, it was difficult. Our economy in disarray, terrorism around the world, it is as if each day the world teeters on the brink of extinction. I cannot imagine what it would be like to not know the Lord, in such times as this. How do people face tomorrow, without Him? There is no hope in the religions of man; they wage war against one another. Atheism tries to stand up an raise its banner, but it is no more than a dry wind in a desert. How foolish that there are those who believe all things came from nothing. Governments are frighten by what they see coming upon this earth. They cry out global warming, while just less than fifty years ago they said a new Ice Age was upon us. Truly the words of the prophet Jermiah ring true:</span><strong><em><span style="color:#660000;"> Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his arm, whose heart turns away from the LORD. He is like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness, in an uninhabited salt land. "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit." (Jeremiah 17:5-8 RSV) </span></em></strong><span style="color:#006600;">We are not held to the fear of men, nor do we dwell within the darkness of their wisdom, their frail plans. We are children of light. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;">This is the time, the hour for us to raise our banner high, to tell all those who dwell in darkness: </span><strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalms 27:1 NKJV)</span></em></strong> <span style="color:#006600;">We have such great hope, such a promise that has been sealed by the gift of His wondrous mercy. In desperate times let us shine brighter. There are many who are going to be looking for the answer in the midst of this fallen world. Let us not cower in fear, but arise and show them our God reigns. I am so thankful for the opportunity that has been given to me by the Lord, to go into all the world and preach His word. I am thankful for all those who have been such a wondrous part of this. There truly is no Lone Warriors in God's kingdom. We are His, and He alone must be our source.</span> <strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">"for in Him we live and move and have our being,' (Acts 17:28 NKJV)</span></em></strong> <span style="color:#006600;">This is not the time for us to hide the light under the bushel of our fellowship halls, to retreat to the noise and clanging cymbals of false worship. We need to be a distinct sound, the wondrous tune of faith and obedience. Let us, like those who have gone on before us, arise and go. We are in a war, the war for the souls of men. It can only be won by trust and abiding in the One who will lead us beyond our selfish borders, to reach out to those who hunger for truth. I pray this year, all of us will be a part of the Lord's great exploits. I know many will not be able to travel the miles, nonetheless, it is not the distance, but the devotion that matters. When we are in love with Christ Jesus, we will produce the fruit that remains. </span></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;">By His grace I will be off to Africa soon, and than I am looking at other lands, other places, in which I hear the cry for freedom. I do not know how far He will let me go, but I am willing to go as far as He calls me. Let us bind our hearts to Christ, in this alone we will be bound together. This is what true fellowship is, true worship, vessels for His honor. Let us not be those who make a lot of noise, but those who will by faith, tear down the strongholds of the enemy, and set the captives free. Thank you all so much for being a part of my life. Thank you for the encouragement and strength that you have shared with us. Remember, each new day is a gift to behold His glory unfold in our lives:</span> <strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10 NKJV)<br /></span></em></strong></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#000099;">In His love</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#000099;">Tom Faunce</span></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-77819737698749227832010-01-04T15:38:00.000-06:002010-01-04T15:39:28.664-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDDfHIb3Vnb9I42lhEhKfE3IEK_nWgKOEJ5SzmBRTCDfuCfCFXsosf6i4HcOGclI_H-t37mW7lucq_WJSvSGMRkocnLFP8DgMDQbIHL3_aYcCOgDnDwJnPYVJcI5rfPMVnMuk0lkU1rM/s1600-h/zzzzzzzzzzz4th.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423002497223539714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 297px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDDfHIb3Vnb9I42lhEhKfE3IEK_nWgKOEJ5SzmBRTCDfuCfCFXsosf6i4HcOGclI_H-t37mW7lucq_WJSvSGMRkocnLFP8DgMDQbIHL3_aYcCOgDnDwJnPYVJcI5rfPMVnMuk0lkU1rM/s400/zzzzzzzzzzz4th.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-88654201545033113712010-01-01T18:23:00.007-06:002010-01-01T19:53:42.202-06:00Testing of our faith.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-fWl7MWh9HG2ns9YtfJLF8pfYGvAh1Rym1ff3fANsibfowIN8a9tWOWB5fU9LFH_koFGGRCmrA5C3ijJ6NFJW6zeSurtawD2-NArHLLdhk7ppGyjmrNX8ZcJCr1hlv_irJEzZezOQn4/s1600-h/zzzzzzzzzzzrain.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421945849504272146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 345px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-fWl7MWh9HG2ns9YtfJLF8pfYGvAh1Rym1ff3fANsibfowIN8a9tWOWB5fU9LFH_koFGGRCmrA5C3ijJ6NFJW6zeSurtawD2-NArHLLdhk7ppGyjmrNX8ZcJCr1hlv_irJEzZezOQn4/s400/zzzzzzzzzzzrain.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#006600;"><br /></span><div><span style="color:#006600;">Dear friends<br /></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">Here we are a new year, a new decade. This may be the year of our Lord's coming. I know this is the time for us to shine the brightest. I had the opportunity to speak at Life Challenge of Detroit for their yearly mission conference. I was scheduled for 8:am. I left the night before and stayed at Pastor Ed Valentin's in Lapeer Michigan. I arrived about 10:pm and left at 5:am. At Life Challenge I shared about the trial we often face when we step out in faith. I also shared that I did not expect things to change, that the battles will even get tougher as the years come. However, I shared how I know that the Lord would give more of His joy, to see us through. This is a truth, I have learned to live. We are in a war. I have never known an easy battle. Often many draw back from the fight, because of the struggles along the way. We are told by many in the pulpit that things like this do not happen to Christians, we can just claim it away. I have always been amazed by how many have swallowed this lie. Not only do they take it in, they pay a price to have their ears tickled. This deception amongst us, is so far from truth. Paul knew from the beginning he was going to have to face much suffering, yet he did not draw back</span>: <strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">But the Lord said to him,</span></em></strong> <strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">"Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; for I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name." (Acts 9:15-16 RSV)<br /></span></em></strong></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">How many today would go forward, if it was told from the get go they would suffer? Yet this is what we are told would happen in God's word.</span> <strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">"Remember the word that I said to you, 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. (John 15:20 NKJV)</span></em></strong> <span style="color:#009900;">If there is one thing we need today, it is honesty in the pulpit. Share the truth at whatever cost. I think it was Leonard Ravenhill who said: <strong>"If you are going to preach repentance, you better pledge your head to heaven."</strong> To be a soldier of the Lord, we must settle in our hearts that we will be in the war for the souls of men.</span> <strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (Jude 1:3 NKJV)<br /></span></em></strong></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">Goliath stood before the Army of Israel taunting them. One thing he said often bothers me. I find it such a challenge, because I believe this is what the wicked dark spirits of this hour dare us with.</span> <strong><em><span style="color:#990000;"><span style="color:#660000;">And the Philistine said,</span> </span><span style="color:#660000;">"I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together." (1 Samuel 17:10 NKJV)</span></em></strong> <span style="color:#009900;">Give me a man who will fight. What a challenge to the church of today, what a call to all those who truly want to fight the good fight of faith.<br /></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">If we realize that we too, will face what others who truly walked in faith faced, than we also will not be caught off guard. When I was in the military we were trained to fight, to expect terrible adversities, so that when we did face them we would respond, instead of drawing back in fear. The Christian walk is the greatest life to live, a journey of wondrous exploits, and an adventure. However, in it all, we will face the powers of darkness. They will do all they can to get us to quit, to draw back into the comfort and ease, of our fellowship halls. This is not the way for those who walk the narrow way. We must fight, and fight we will.</span><span style="color:#660000;"> </span><strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, (Philippians 1:29 NKJV)<br /></div></span></em></strong><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">Since I been going overseas, and traveling around the country, Julie and I have come to face these trials. Julie often times seems to face much more than I do, at the home front. Whenever I leave, there is something that goes wrong at home. The devil tries to wear us down, get us discouraged by these things that come upon us. Yesterday evening, while driving from Detroit to home, which is over a four hour drive, my daughter Melody called and said that Julie had not returned from work. She was worried about her. Julie had no cell phone with her. We share them, she always gives her's up. That is Julie, she is always thinking of others first. This is not something I say because I am married to her. I know that all who know her, would tell you the same; though she does not see her self like this. She is the most unselfish person I have ever known, and I am so blessed to be married to such a wonderful woman. I became very concerned about her last night, specially after a few hours passed by. I started praying. I thought of what I had shared that morning, about the trials we face. I thought of life without my wife. I told the Lord that I was only half a person without her. I had to rethink this, and told the Lord I was less than half a person without her. I was troubled that we had not heard a word from her, because this is not like Julie. As l I traveled I prayed for her, and my whole family. I know God is in control. I realized how hard it must be for Julie, when I am gone and she looses all contact with me, when I am overseas. This short time was difficult for me, I cannot imagine how difficult it has been for her all these years, of her trying to hold down the home front, trusting the Lord throughout the times and trials of separation. I was thinking how thankful I was, that the Lord has blessed me with Julie. Soon after all that, I received a phone call from Melody. She told me Julie called. She told Melody, her car's engine finally gave out. She had broken down along side the road out in a remote area. Last night was very cold. She got out of the car, and tried to push the car by herself, off the road. She said no one stopped to help, while she was doing this. She was going to walk, but the distance and time of night she decided not to. She sat in the car for a couple of hours, and listened to the Christian radio station. She said that every song that came on, was about trusting the Lord through trials. A man finally stopped and let her use his cell phone, than gave her a ride to the house. I was so relieved to hear she was home. This situation made me reflect on the things I shared that morning. I realized that none of us are promised tomorrow on this earth, but we are promised that our life is in the hands of the Lord. He knows our coming and going. We are out of a vehicle, but I am still with my wife, and that makes me cherish every moment the Lord gives us together. In it all, I will continue by His grace to fight the good fight of faith. We will have these trials, but they are truly for a moment, in the light of eternity. We must press on, be faithful, fight the good fight of faith. Stand your ground. Pray for one another. We must finish the course set before us. When the devil calls out: "Where is a man that will fight", run to the battle, our God reigns.</span> <strong><em><span style="color:#660000;">Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, (1 Peter 1:3-7 NKJV)</span></em></strong></div><br /><div><span style="color:#660000;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;color:#000099;">PS, if anyone has a vehicle to help us, so that I can continue to go forth, please let us know. Cannot leave Julie alone without one.</span></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-19025946662541535722009-12-30T22:49:00.012-06:002009-12-30T23:16:50.842-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojWJcijj0UeE_OainKI7_U5TsAhsApiJ0C8CUiJ5jLAbRI1Rqx_AZgoNVskKis6Cy1xj1lcuRHPYt5VdpYdka5WcyfFsK1cvDzv5oMdj1x2MREVcYnVpUBafP4AEVnGHn3J4zwNZtrvc/s1600-h/zzzzxxxxzggr.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421259247015778114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 325px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojWJcijj0UeE_OainKI7_U5TsAhsApiJ0C8CUiJ5jLAbRI1Rqx_AZgoNVskKis6Cy1xj1lcuRHPYt5VdpYdka5WcyfFsK1cvDzv5oMdj1x2MREVcYnVpUBafP4AEVnGHn3J4zwNZtrvc/s400/zzzzxxxxzggr.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong><em><span style="color:#006600;">Never out of His sight!</span></em></strong></div><br /><div><span style="color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Trouble, and trials, they come upon </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Us like sudden storms in the night.</span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">The raging tempest of pain and sorrow,</span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Tearing deep into the brokenhearted.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#660000;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">This world leaves us abandon, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">To the empty </span><span style="color:#660000;">promises </span><span style="color:#660000;">of the dark heart of man.<br /></span><span style="color:#660000;">Though the devil tells us we cannot face tomorrow,</span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">All who trust in the One who poured out His grace, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Can mount up with wings like the eagle, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Far above </span><span style="color:#660000;">the despair of the unfaithful.<br /></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#660000;">No matter what happens in this life,</span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">We are never out of Christ presence, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Never out of His sight. </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">We are His children, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Saved by His grace.</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Though the clouds are dark, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">The cry </span><span style="color:#660000;">of fear is heard </span><span style="color:#660000;">throughout the land, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">We are close to home; </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">Nothing can separate us from His love, </span></div><div><span style="color:#660000;">His mercy endures forever.</span></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-57120903736901716312009-12-27T18:25:00.003-06:002009-12-27T18:35:50.052-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibuww7yHG-wkIArITDPuHMVi6CCf0PsIGPusoU2PmwZ1Vsw0QX-S6jOsAX3VJ3gii90l4Pn74oxQELLfGbrIZH_8wDY-yphKmWvOvZ-F6a9fS-zjy5vYbpxk-ITp_lOLxKpksMNQSsttI/s1600-h/zzzzzzzzbible.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420079220536518306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibuww7yHG-wkIArITDPuHMVi6CCf0PsIGPusoU2PmwZ1Vsw0QX-S6jOsAX3VJ3gii90l4Pn74oxQELLfGbrIZH_8wDY-yphKmWvOvZ-F6a9fS-zjy5vYbpxk-ITp_lOLxKpksMNQSsttI/s400/zzzzzzzzbible.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#000066;"><strong><span style="font-family:georgia;">Defiance</span></strong><br /></span></span><strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (1 Samuel 17:26 NKJV)<br /></span></em></strong><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Definition of defiance: The act or an instance of defying : disposition to resist : willingness to contend or fight.</span><br /></div><br /><div>In the account of Goliath before the Armies of Israel, we find this giant defying Israel, mocking, taunting their very existence. This was Israel, the Army of the Lord, yet they cowered back in fear. Not daring to go forth and fight against this giant, a warrior, that challenged them they drew back from the battle.. I read this and I think of what is happening today. We live in such days, we Christians are being taunted and challenged from all sides from the giants of pride, immorality, perversion, sodomites, false religions, humanism, atheism, and a host of other dark empires that stand before us. The church is doing very little. We try to organize, socialize, and fraternize with the gimmicks of the very world that fights against us. We think we can vote them out, but each year their heart waxes worse, growing bolder, more challenging. We cannot use this kingdoms armor to fight the enemy, adorning ourselves in their garments. As David would not wear King Saul's Armor, because it did not fit, we too cannot adorn ourselves with the things of this fallen world to combat darkness. It does not fit, it cannot fit, it is hewn out by the hands of men. Our weapons are not carnal:<strong><em><span style="color:#cc0000;"> I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. (1 Corinthians 2:3-5 NKJV)</span></em></strong> To much of the church has adopted the way of the world. We want to wear Saul's armor, because it shines with the best of mans ability. However, it will never do. It is from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. We can never win the battle this way. Only that which comes from the Tree of Life will equip us with the strength we need. All that stands proud before us, defying the Lord, we must run out to meet them in battle in the power of His might. Just as David ran out to confront Goliath we too must be encouraged to do the same. To resist this evil, can only be done in the Spirit of the Lord. Then David said to the Philistine, <strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">"You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. "This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. "Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD'S, and He will give you into our hands." So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hastened and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. (1 Samuel 17:45-48 NKJV)<br /><br /></span></em></strong>Tolerance is the word of the hour, the Trojan horse that is amongst our midst. It is amazing how many Christians use the word love, to cover up their compromise. They fear reprise, so they rally around the flag of tolerance, claiming they are loving all men. This is not love, this is cowardliness. How is it love, when we do not defy that which stands in perversion, undermines God's righteousness, mocks truth, and demands that all submit to them? Money changes in the church, at the hands of false prophets, from one end of this world to another. Where are the warriors of Light? Where are the David's who cry out: <strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">For zeal for thy house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult thee have fallen on me. (Psalms 69:9 RSV)</span></em></strong> How can we sit back while the giants of darkness taunt the army of the Lord? We must stand for truth. If we do not, than we are not in the love of God. I am not talking about some loud mouth, who screams out repentance like a lunatic, that has no grace about him. We are to be true to the Lord. If we are on our knees before Him daily, than we will be able to arise in His Spirit, run the race before us. We will be able to gather from His word the weapons we need. Our weapons are not carnal. Fear cannot set up residence in the heart of the one who walks in faith and trust in Jesus Christ. <strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. (2 Corinthians 10:3-6 NKJV)<br /></div></span></em></strong><br /><div>The church today calls for toleration, when she should be defiant! We live in such times as there has never been before. Each day darkness increases, while the church hides its light under their bushels. David faced Goliath even when his country men criticized him. His own brothers thought him insolent. They would rather cower in fear than see one younger than they, stand for truth. They did not want to be overshadowed by one so bold and confident in the Lord., they claimed they believed in. They would rather face defeat, than be embarrassed. They questioned his boldness, trying to shut him up. When I read David's response to them, I cannot help but feel it is the same response of the faithful, to all those within the church who would have us be quiet, to lay back and settle into the lukewarm spirit of the hour: <strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">Now Eliab his oldest brother heard when he spoke to the men; and Eliab's anger was aroused against David, and he said, "Why did you come down here? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and the insolence of your heart, for you have come down to see the battle." And David said, "What have I done now? Is there not a cause?" (1 Samuel 17:28-29 NKJV)</span></em></strong><br /><br />Is there not a cause? Has there not been a wake up call to us all, to arise above the complacency that surrounds us? Have we not heard the trumpet blast from the kingdom of God, calling us to stand an fight the good fight of faith? How is it we can be so easily lulled asleep into a spirit of compromise, in the midst of a raging war? The world tells us to stay within the confines of our camps. They tell us not to venture out beyond the borders of that which we hold dear. They want us to be shut in, shut up, to lay down our weapons before them. Peter and John were commanded by the leaders of their day to hold it in, not too mention the name of Christ. These were religious folks, the Pope's of that day. Though they were commanded by these who sat on their thrones of authority to not mention the name of Christ, Peter responded the only way he could: <strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">And they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. (Acts 4:18-19 NKJV)</span></em></strong> Peter and John were persecuted for their stand. Through it all they did not compromise. They did not hold back. They knew they belonged to Christ alone. God was their source, not the wisdom of the age. Even after they were beaten, told not to speak the name of Christ, they left the presence of their persecutors proclaiming the name of Christ. They did not cower back from speaking Christ. They counted all as loss for the upward call. <strong><span style="color:#990000;"><em>Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (1 Timothy 6:12 NKJV)<br /></em></span></strong><br />There are those amongst our midst who claim Christ name, but they are enemies. They often control much of the activities which we call the church. We cannot and must not draw back from the battle, because they tell us to be tolerant, hold back proclaiming the name of Christ. Truth belongs to God alone, and no man can bind it up. There is no easy battle. We will face persecution. The Word tells us we will face such adversity. Stand in the light. Do not draw back at whatever cost. Never let it be said that we have been silent in the proclamation of the gospel. <strong><em><span style="color:#990000;">And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ. (Acts 5:40-42 NKJV)<br /><br /></span><span style="color:#cc0000;"><span style="color:#990000;">And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. (John 12:32 KJV)</span> </span></em></strong>We are not called to rally around political causes, raise banners to proclaim our identity with some sect or movement. There is so much noise amongst us, banging cymbals, loud belligerent, and arrogant babble, that does not lead to the Light. It is Christ alone that needs to be lifted up. By His Spirit, in the proclamation of His wondrous truth of the gospel, men our drawn to Him. I do not need anyone to join my group. I need to lift up Christ, so they too can be born again into the church of Christ. The true church is made up of every true born again believer on the face of the earth. We do not need another movement, another Pentecost. This all has been poured out into us. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. What we need is to return to our First Love. If you are out of sorts with the true source, you will not be the vessel filled with His Living Water. One thing I have found out all these years in mission, it is not the hands of man I need. I cannot look to them for any answer, it is Christ alone. He works through His body, it is those who long to be in right standing in Him. We are no longer our own. When we abide in the Vine, we will produce the fruit we need to bear. There is no formula, no set pattern, except that we are right with the One we claim we love. He is the light. Christ is what darkness fears. They fear not our pet doctrines, our formulas, our gimmicks that we have borrowed from the very ones that war against us. We need no shows, we need Holy Ghost glow. Preach Christ and Him crucified. Tell them of the law of God, let them know that their is none righteous, no not one. Take their eyes off religion, let them see the cost of the cross. Preach repentance that leads to the cross, this alone will cause the searching heart to see Christ. When He is lifted up in our hearts, our lives, our speech and action, this alone will draw men unto Christ. The defiance of the Christian is not in arrogance, or pride, or violence. It is the life abandon to Christ that shines the brightest.. The pilgrim of grace will not be swayed away from Christ alone. When we walk in Him, we will be a distinct sound, a tune that can be heard in clarity, not confusion. David knew what side he was on, this is why he could stand in boldness and proclaim: <span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em>"You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. (1 Samuel 17:45 NKJV)</em></strong></span><br /><br />True love defies the lies of the enemy. Stand in Christ alone, the world will war against you, those who compromise will despise you, but the searching heart will be drawn to the ones who lives out what they claim they believe. Truly the line is drawn of those who claim it, and those who live it. Christianity is not a title, but a life lived out in the fullness of His grace. Now is the time, now is the hour, for the Christian to run to the battle.<span style="color:#990000;"><strong><em> Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NKJV).<br /><br /></em></strong></span><span style="font-size:85%;">In Christ<br />T. M. Faunce</span> </div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-1993744088161874172009-12-17T07:40:00.000-06:002009-12-17T07:43:41.830-06:00The wings we need!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcy2XzW6of4HfYY4T0kdpXS4Naa12NbHmXhwjKVzoU_611szjZTBvR3AEJhhnHLpZMj4iiz5qq-k48F0lYxcCEZch1OPFmhY5gguRodLuAKomIcDa_cKcJ_uBFOEolcqmVvQh3gVXcjA/s1600-h/zzzzzmercy.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416200073724657378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcy2XzW6of4HfYY4T0kdpXS4Naa12NbHmXhwjKVzoU_611szjZTBvR3AEJhhnHLpZMj4iiz5qq-k48F0lYxcCEZch1OPFmhY5gguRodLuAKomIcDa_cKcJ_uBFOEolcqmVvQh3gVXcjA/s400/zzzzzmercy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-18358355440570474702009-12-17T00:28:00.001-06:002009-12-17T00:31:22.077-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2WdtmdbyvZUI9okhrw8rHqolFjUW9Qu4tEODtXLdBi_eB8dtqklnbDXstscVwTYGS2zD81zaZMJk14GeWkS33htKTqbcJ5ljYV34JLzoTa0UGAw02uDNWkHDcjds7I3lksXE7iPNsOw/s1600-h/ZZZtrueh.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416088794645172050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 251px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2WdtmdbyvZUI9okhrw8rHqolFjUW9Qu4tEODtXLdBi_eB8dtqklnbDXstscVwTYGS2zD81zaZMJk14GeWkS33htKTqbcJ5ljYV34JLzoTa0UGAw02uDNWkHDcjds7I3lksXE7iPNsOw/s320/ZZZtrueh.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a id="myphotolink" href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1634982&id=752573520"></a><div><br /><a class="photocaption_toggle UIImageBlock_Image UIImageBlock_ICON_Image" title="Edit Caption" onclick="return false;" href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#"></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"><em><strong>To all my friends that love the Lord. Do not be a Christian Scrooge this holiday season. Reach out, pour it out, shout it out the true reason for this season, that Christ came to redeem us from our sins. Merry Christmas and a grace filled New Year to you all </strong></em></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"><em><strong>Love Tom & Julie John 3:16 --- 1 John 3:16</strong></em></span></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-19343817064063811932009-12-14T16:29:00.004-06:002009-12-14T16:48:14.450-06:00My new blog<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tesRnSENUGGK_1sn0p5HvyyM9fSuoIuJULodn-5PJkDc6tO0TaXOQoSHAyzq-cWs1MLlUvB2p6nS7V9c1gY3jzdfkmULz87rQYJAQovldTTIXyjjvr8uqMIQ4L9t3w0Eh41FZlWrlp4/s1600-h/zzzzeeeag.jpg"></a> </p><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">Just wanted to say this is a new thing for me. My blog, sounds like a horror movie. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tesRnSENUGGK_1sn0p5HvyyM9fSuoIuJULodn-5PJkDc6tO0TaXOQoSHAyzq-cWs1MLlUvB2p6nS7V9c1gY3jzdfkmULz87rQYJAQovldTTIXyjjvr8uqMIQ4L9t3w0Eh41FZlWrlp4/s1600-h/zzzzeeeag.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415225824769066418" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 325px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 286px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tesRnSENUGGK_1sn0p5HvyyM9fSuoIuJULodn-5PJkDc6tO0TaXOQoSHAyzq-cWs1MLlUvB2p6nS7V9c1gY3jzdfkmULz87rQYJAQovldTTIXyjjvr8uqMIQ4L9t3w0Eh41FZlWrlp4/s320/zzzzeeeag.jpg" border="0" /></a>However I think it will be a greater avenue for me to share my heart, and what is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">happening</span> in the mission field. I would also like to provide the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">opportunity</span> for listing my Books, and also Photos if there <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">are</span> those interested. We <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">also</span> will be offering Christians T Shirts that will be done each with a challenge for others to see and hopefully be witnessed too. I feel this may be a wonderful <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">opportunity</span>. I am so grateful to my very good friend Jason <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Whatley</span> that has helped me set this up. I do not know what I am doing it is all new for me. I can say this in it all I just want to glorify the name of Christ. If <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">anyone</span> out there has any ideas to help this get <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">started</span> please let me know. I been so blessed by those who have cared to share their heart and input.</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">In Christ love & service 1 John 3:16</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">Tom <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Faunce</span></span></strong>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-44455373170443129212009-12-13T22:04:00.000-06:002009-12-13T22:10:05.327-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KHueaPqauM5GPYz9GvoHGA9ajPHl_taMqj2ogE0yjvZmjUAQehoKPBJjH2FYezfWZycjUXyZ2nbjQ9ZbnrQFGzuynLeW3eHglr2pCM9lVl1dutiqtDivMiD3qlMO_Dqh30rVZEsLpYM/s1600-h/ZZZsnowbufdd.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414939186184937874" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 332px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KHueaPqauM5GPYz9GvoHGA9ajPHl_taMqj2ogE0yjvZmjUAQehoKPBJjH2FYezfWZycjUXyZ2nbjQ9ZbnrQFGzuynLeW3eHglr2pCM9lVl1dutiqtDivMiD3qlMO_Dqh30rVZEsLpYM/s400/ZZZsnowbufdd.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Frontlineomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14540358018266849978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-65950481931176868812009-12-13T18:54:00.001-06:002009-12-13T18:55:46.443-06:00Uriah, the Light of our Lord!<strong>The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. (Romans 13:12 NKJV</strong>)<br /><br />Uriah, the name means the Lord is my light, my fire. This man is often talked about in sermons, regarding the sin of David. Uriah's wife was taken by David, while Uriah was out to battle. I do not remember ever hearing a sermon or lesson on the character of Uriah. Though there is not very much written about him, what is, should speak volumes to the Christian heart. This was a man of valor, a warrior, a soldier, a commander of men. He loved his king, his country, and would do all he could to be faithful to his calling. Uriah was a man of principle. He put the things of God first. He was a soldier of Israel, and that made him a soldier of the Lord. No rest or pleasures, would take away his priority of being faithful to the Lord, and to Israel. I believe, like David, Uriah was a man after God's own heart. Little did he know that the king he highly esteemed would betray him. Uriah counted all as loss, for a higher calling. Is this not the way of the Christian? Then Peter said, "See, we have left all and followed You." So He said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, "who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come eternal life." (Luke 18:28-30 NKJV)<br /><br />When Uriah is mentioned in the Bible in regard to this particular soldier, it mentions him as, Uriah the Hittite. The word Hittite means one who is broken. I thought of this, in light of the word, and it is a challenge to me. The bible says: The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart-These, O God, You will not despise. (Psalms 51:17 NKJV)<br /><br />Over and over again, the Scripture reminds us, Uriah was a Hittite, one of a broken spirit, a humbled man before the Lord. This is the only way to be on fire for God. There is no pride, or arrogance in a warrior of the Lord. No soldier of Christ, go out to make a name for himself. He is not about building an empire but one, and that is the Kingdom of God. He is not bought or sold, will not compromise, or settle for lukewarm complacency. The broken soul, becomes like the bush that Moses came before, it was not consumed by the fire, instead, a burning torch that draws the seeking heart to God. "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5:14 NKJV)<br /><br />While David was back at Jerusalem, Uriah was out to battle. David should not have been at ease; He should have been with his men. It happened in the spring of the year, at the time when kings go out to battle, that David sent Joab and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the people of Ammon and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem. (2 Samuel 11:1 NKJV) The time he decided to take a break, hold back, the tempter was right on him. He lost his greatest battle at home, at rest. When David sinned he was not in dressed in armor. If we confess to be a Christian, we are called to be dressed and ready at all times in the armor of the Lord: Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:10-11 NKJV) David knew he was in trouble when he found out Bathsheba was pregnant. Her name in Hebrew means: Daughter of Oath. David broke this sacred oath, by taking that which does not belong to him. This is always the downward trend in sin. Satan wants us to make a claim to that which does not belong to us. The enemy's tactic is to get us to break the oath, that we have been crucified with Christ, our lives are no longer our own. When we lay claim to anything as Christians, we have broken the oath. We have prostituted ourselves out to a world that will rob us of our spiritual life. Many of the Christian teachings I hear today are a claim to grab a hold of all we can, to raise our self esteem, instead of dying to self. We are at ease in this world, paying the price of the boastful pride of this life. For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. (1 Corinthians 6:20 NKJV)<br /><br />David figured the best way to cover his sin was to bring Uriah home from battle. David was convinced, the first thing Uriah would do is return home, be with his wife, take a break from the battle. Does this not seem the right thing to do, is this not common sense? However, Uriah was not a man of common sense, he was a soldier of Light. How could he enjoy the comfort of home, while his men were out in the raging battle? His place was to be with them, to lead, to be an example. Even at the cost of his life, surely at the cost of the comforts of home, he would not forsake the calling. And David said to Uriah, "Go down to your house and wash your feet." So Uriah departed from the king's house, and a gift of food from the king followed him. But Uriah slept at the door of the king's house with all the servants of his lord, and did not go down to his house. (2 Samuel 11:8-9 NKJV) If the church of this hour had such men, such honor amongst us, the devil would be in great fear. The sword of truth would wield it's might from shore to shore. There would be men who have counted all as loss for Christ. How is it we are so lulled to sleep? Few fight the good fight of faith, why multitudes of confessing Christians spend their time on things that turn to dust and rust. We have more seminars, so called Christian retreats, music concerts, Christian cruises, in which heaps of resources are spent on, while millions face eternity without a warrior, a soldier of light to reach them. Many want to travel to Israel on a tour to see where Jesus walked, few walk the walk He walked. The few that do long to fight the good fight of faith, are very seldom encouraged, or backed up by the ones who say the love the Lord. When I read about Uriah, I am challenged to forsake all this mess around me for the sake of the call of the Lord. I want to finish my race as a soldier of the Light. Like Uriah, I do not want to settle in, why the war is raging. Shall I be at ease while the church overseas is persecuted. Shall I relax while few are fighting a raging battle? Shall I turn my eyes away from the harvest, because there is little to work with? Is there any excuse that we stay comfortable while millions perish? God forbid I would ever bear the name of a Christian, with a heart of compromise such as this. And Uriah said to David, "The ark and Israel and Judah are dwelling in tents, and my lord Joab and the servants of my lord are encamped in the open fields. Shall I then go to my house to eat and drink, and to lie with my wife? As you live, and as your soul lives, I will not do this thing." (2 Samuel 11:11 NKJV) David did send this man of valor back to battle, because he knew there was no changing his mind. Is our mind often changed by the things of this life? One moment on fire, the next swayed by the road blocks Satan sends our way. I am ashamed to say that I have allowed to much to get in the Way of the only Road to travel. There is only one Road for a Christian, it is a narrow Road, no room for the baggage this world wants us to cling too. There is only room for the soldier and his armor, nothing else. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (1 Timothy 6:12 NKJV) David sent a letter with Uriah, in that letter was the sentence to set a trap to have Uriah killed. And he wrote in the letter, saying, "Set Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle, and retreat from him, that he may be struck down and die." (2 Samuel 11:15 NKJV) Joab was to go to the Frontline, send Uriah, and the men of valor forward into the heat of the battle, than draw all men back, but Uriah. He did this, and Uriah was slain. Then the men of the city came out and fought with Joab. And some of the people of the servants of David fell; and Uriah the Hittite died also. (2 Samuel 11:17 NKJV) This is a sad passage, that one so faithful, sacrificed for the sin of David. In my mind, I picture the battle. The men of valor went forward fighting the enemy right at their gate. Than the men started drawing back, leaving Uriah to fight alone. Uriah though, did not flee. Though his men where retreating, he stood his ground. Uriah was not alone. Though Joab ordered all to retreat, but Uraih, others stayed too. Along with Uriah, other valiant men perished in this battle. They would not compromise, they too, would not draw back from the battle. There will always be the voices to tell us to draw back from the battle. Some will use their authority, their might to sway the soldier of light away from the fight. I know this first hand. Like Peter we must have but one response. But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: "We ought to obey God rather than men. (Acts 5:29 NKJV)<br />No matter the cost, our life is lost in the grace of the Lord. We are no longer our own. A soldier of Light is bound by the oath of uncompromising love. I will always see Uriah as such a one, encouraged by his example. After this study, it has sparked a fire within, what it means to be a faithful servant, a Christian of valor, not to compromise. We have one to race to run; one battle to fight. Shall I be at ease, why my brothers are out in the field fighting the good fight of faith? Shall I put my sword into the sheath of lukewarm complacency? Arise is the call in my heart. I long to draw close to the heart of God, my heart aflame in His grace and mercy, bright and true to His calling. I want to run the race at whatever the cost. I long to be faithful, to the One who gave all, to save such a wretch like me. I long to honor Christ name, fighting the fight of faith at whatever cost, even at the gates of hell. If need be, my life taken in the fight, what honor it would be to be wearing the boots that did not flee. That my life be one of those who wield the sword that has not been hidden away. To have the testimony that I held true with the shield of faith. That I too would wear the helmet of salvation with honor, not the dishonor of apathy. I know there are Uriah's amongst us. I pray if you are one, that you are encouraged to go forth, and fight the good fight of faith. Though none go with you, follow the One who bought you with His precious blood. Our life is brief; spend it as a soldier of the Light. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. (2 Timothy 4:5 NKJV)What are you wearing?<br /><br />But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. (1 Thessalonians 5:8 NKJV)<br /><br />By Tom FaunceJason Whatleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253949610831338599noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4823274920186795977.post-85046114447549690482009-12-13T14:11:00.000-06:002009-12-13T14:21:02.343-06:00A word on Christmas from Tom...<strong>Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, And they shall call his name Immanuel; which is, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:23 ASV) </strong><br /><br />Dear Friends,<br /><br />The year is coming to an end, the Holidays are here. We are celebrating the coming of our Lord. However, as we look around we see a world consumed with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Christmas is the season, Christians are warmed within, with the great truth and promise that God is with us. He is Immanuel, our Prince of peace, our Savior and Lord. As I ride around town, I am constantly seeing signs that say Xmas, and many others saying keep Christ in Christmas. I am not to bothered by the world and its Xmas signs, I do not expect anything less. Jesus came into this world, the world received Him not. There was no room for Him in the Inn. There will never be room in this world for Him. He is not of this world, nor are we. We were once of those who had the door shut, our hearts closed, however the Holy Spirit drew us to Christ Amazing Grace. We been washed clean by the blood He shed for our sins.<br /><br />Jesus was born in a manger, outside of the hustle and bustle of the world. He could not come any other way, because this world is not a place for Him to find rest. Only in the life of the heart that has been born again, does He abide. The manger was a place of humility, a place the proud and arrogant would never lay their head. However, like the repented heart, our soul is that manger, the place where Christ can find a place to rest. It is the place where the Peace that passes all understanding gives strength to the weary, sight to the blind, hope to the hopeless. Do not fret or worry, because the world is getting darker, their hatred for light more bolder. We have been told this all would come to pass. The darker it becomes, the more brighter our life should shine. Be a beacon this Christmas, so that those who long to escape this worlds grasp, will flee to the cross, the place of humility, the place of new birth. Emmanuel, God with us, what a precious wonderful promise. Our hearts should truly rejoice and be glad in this season. Let us go forth with our feet shod with the gospel of peace, our voices filled with worship and praise. We are not bound by the madness we see around us. Let the world see, we are a peculiar people set apart, for His good purpose. This is the time of gift giving, let our lives be offered up as a living sacrifice. Each of us who have been truly born again have this one race to run, one life on this earth to share this wondrous Truth with those who will listen.. Do not squander the greatest message, the only true message for the heart of man. Can others see that we truly understand what Christmas means?<br /><br />This season ask the Lord to give you at least one soul to minister too. If He gives you more than one, what a a great blessing. However, start with one, than go to another. Write a letter to someone, bake a cake. shovel a walk, sing a song a lonely soul. Visit the sick. Go to the prison, to those bound in sin. Feed the hungry. Go abroad with His good news. Clothe the naked. Whatever you do, do not do nothing with the new life He has put in you. How would it be if He never came? What if God decided to not be with us? How would it be if he left us in our sin, alone in the dark of this world? Can we look on this world that is waxing worse, and not be moved within to move without? God forbid we would waste this wonderful gift of salvation in silence. We are His chalice to be poured out. Christmas for the Christian is everyday. The gift of salvation, is still available to all those who will heed the call to come to Christ. Be the one to take it to them. I just want to say thank you all, for being such an encouragement to me and my family, and those of you who have inspired me, to be the vessel to be used for His glory. Jesus deserves the just rewards of the love He has poured into us. This new year that is upon us, let us pour out what Christ poured in. Have a blessed grace filled Christmas, and a New Year full of faith and great exploits.<br /><br />In Christ love & Service<br />Tom Faunce & family 1 John 3:16Jason Whatleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253949610831338599noreply@blogger.com2