Addendum to Study to Show Thyself Approved: A Training Paper Below is a compilation of my responses to online questions, written due to daily interactions with “Experiencing God” by Henry Blackaby and “The Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. Hello Everyone in California and Around the World,
I have the fill-ins for the blanks that Dad made in my 80 day journal.
Day 1 Question: Joe, what is happening right this moment as you are reading this?
I am waiting for the flight from LA to London. I read Genesis chapters 1-5
Yes, God is at work around me. I notice how people take care of each other.
Women and older people, and those with disabilities are not left behind.
I met 3 young ladies, they are all staying in Ghana providing bicycles??
Another young man, he is going to Liberia, has been away since '93, staying in Chicago.
Catherine,(a motherly woman) is going to visit friends.
Another is a Peruvian with the United Nations.
I was led another way straight to the transit lounge.
No need for a transit visa because I am not leaving the airport.
The transit lounge just filled with pilots and attendants headed for London or Italy.
Catherine and I helped each other. She had moved on w/ out a boarding pass
and I was bargaining down from a $240 excess baggage charge.
God took me to find Catherine and we checked in together.
They still said that I had excess of either $100 or $50, But I got through paying $30.
Pastor Wesley met me in the airport and we went to the waiting taxi and we met Deacon George.
I just got out of bed and remembered it is not about what I am doing here. What is God doing here??
Deacon George
Matthew
Edward (Pastor Wesley wants him to go to Bible School)
Miss Elsie (Laura's Sister)
Earlier today we went on a short trip to view the children's home.
It was very brief but the kids looked in good health.
They need a mattress, so I will talk to Pastor Wesley about that.
I took a picture of Pastor Wesley's new baby,
but I cannot locate the card reader to send the picture yet.
I was showing it to Pastor yesterday so maybe he has it.
He is at the store right now.
Pastor Wesley led the Sunday School lesson on 1 Peter 3:7.
The sermon was on Jonah 1: 17-25
There were 6 visitors at the church today.
The main points I heard were:
1. God was not pleased with Nineveh.
2. God is awake and in control.
3. We should allow the discipline of God to take its proper length.
4. God can discipline you wherever you are.
5. We must submit to God's will.
The songs were sung out of the hymnal, others were seemingly spontaneous choruses.
I can understand Pastor Wesley very well, and the hymns were able to be sung.
Other parts of the service were harder to distinguish.
There were so many people to meet and I realized that though I was hearing their names,
they were not sticking in my mind.
They ended the service with this slogan:
"Greater Love Bible Baptist Church--where everybody is somebody!"
Mom and Dad (and All),
I will try to take lots of pictures. Baby Moses is sleeping.
Electricity is now in his home from 6am to 6pm approximately.
He sold his car. This morning we are going to go to church.
Last night after dinner I gave him $100, but I am not sure that
it is enough to feed and support me for this time.
I am doing my best to focus on whatever is true or noble,
whatever is right or pure, if anything is excellent or admirable,
lovely or worthy of praise.
Pray me through.
Make sure to listen to the test of the voice recorder.
Love,
Joe
I have struggled with selfishness. I feel like I am so needy and that I am vulnerable and need to protect what I have.
My only lapses from selfishness are when I try to share with the children.
I am asking God to help me overcome my feelings and do what I know is right.
I know it is not good to be so self-centered.
Mainly, I am trying to be thankful and smile and wave at all those around me.
Since Pastor Wesley now has electric current in his home he also has the potential to be connected
to the internet from 6 am to 6 pm.
I have been wearing the same clothes since Wednesday because when we arrived in Monrovia.
The suitcase containing all my changes was not there. They said it would come on Sunday afternoon,
but it did not. So, I even wore that outfit to Church -- boy did I feel underdressed, but the only
one to say anything was Richard Jr. who asked "Are you wearing that?".
I do not know how to help anyone here. All of the family seems to want to help me and
will not have me lift a finger, carry my own water or anything. I feel so unworthy and do not even
know what is going on. I think that they all want something from me that I will not be able to give them.
Inauguration Day in Liberia covered by NBC with Video
Pastor Wesley has been waiting patiently for his vision to be realized.
The clinic which he began 5 years ago is still not finished,
The church does not yet have a baptistry. Consider all of the years of civil war in which he waited for God to bring peace.
Dear Papa:
(Internet Speed: 10 mBps) I usually get on the internet early in the morning.
Pastor had internet access put into his house the day before I arrived
and he has electricity for half of a day.
He said that it comes from the hotel and is kind of expensive that is why he has it half of the day.
They have switched to 6am-6pm so that we can email more effectively.
2nd letter: Now I am helping Pastor Wesley install his printer that he has had
for over a year and a half or two. But he just bought the cord the other day.
Yesterday we employed a carpenter to erect a large wooden rod with an antenna
attached for the purpose of viewing the inauguration live on the home television.
It was not too clear the first time, but later it was rebroadcast over CLAR TV which has a very good signal.
Earlier we were able to go over the external CDRW drive and teach Pastor how to record onto it.
click on photos to enlarge
Nothing comes quickly here in Africa. But I have not heard much complaining at all.
I hear great thankfulness about the situation and hope for the future. I hear 'God is Good' and 'to God be the Glory''. I see smiles.
Hey Papa,
I have access to the internet right now and thought that I would send you a quick note.
This morning I was able to help set the table. Laura Wesley is so sweet.
Well, I will send more information later.
Love, Joe
"God is in control. We believe that his children will not be forsaken."
It is not about what we feel, it is about what God's Word says.
Hey Papa,
Here are some other photos from today.
One is of the odd reminders about the technological
and developmental irregularities here in Liberia.
You will see a very nice newer car,
traveling down a dirt road
in front of a building
that used to be used for a church.
The walls are gone. Next to it is another
home that does not have electricity.
The batteries that I had for the camera have run out,
but I think that I will try to use some of the other regular AAs
until I can recharge those. I really don't know if that will work,
but let's trust God because we need the photos.
We will need more money that is not specifically designated
if works are to continue on the Clinic and on the baptistry.
Please pray for me to have my good attitude.
I see so much good around me, yet still do not feel God's presence.
Pastor Wesley is so full of faith, and I don't think that he lives a lavish life.
I can vouch for his character, he loves God and is very positive about his situation.
My best acknowledgement at this time is that it would be
far more expensive to employ an American in this position.
The Wesley children sleep on mats that are very thin on top of the cement floor,
but I think they are all fine with that.
As it appears right now, Living Waters, International
will not be getting their drill any earlier than April.
I have not met with Mr. Brunson yet because my clothes were pretty useless for travel.
Pastor showed me the records and I guess that they were ok .
I still wonder if I have anything good enough to wear to church and the like.
I will be traveling more now.
I have my suitcase, is it enough what is in there?
You do not understand how difficult it is to get messages back
in this context. Anyways, I have a problem buying things but I had Pastor Wesley look at my clothes. I have those black trousers and the button down shirts. They will be ok.
I do not know if I have been drinking enough water.
I drink about one cupful with every meal.
I have not been too tired, but I have not been very active.
I will try to remember to drink more water.
Now, Pastor Wesley is taking a bath, so I can send my Devotional Answers before we have breakfast
and leave for the day. When we return, if it is after 6 pm, then we will not have any current
and I will have to wait to email until tomorrow.
Things move soooo slowly here and I am doing my best.
Hey Papa:
Today I think we are going to pay the last payment on the doors for the clinic ($45) .
Next, Pastor wants to get some sand, that is about a hundred dollars I think.
Then we need some bags of cement.
Pastor Wesley has so much faith.
Ok, I was not able to go to the kid's school but I talked with them
and looked over some of their materials.
They do not have books.
They have these little Composition pads each with about 100 pages.
There are 15 subjects that they study:
English, Bible, Health, History, Math, Phonics, French, Physical Education,
Art/Drawing, Civics, Geography, Literature, Spelling,
African Studies.
Ruth is in the 9th grade and her favorite subject is Math.
Ruth has additional information on Computer.
Priscilla is in the 6th grade and her favorite subject is Science.
Lately they have been studying Ecosystem.
Eunice is also in the 6th grade and her favorite subject is Social Studies.
Lately they have been studying Vegetation and the Soil of Liberia.
Abigail is also in the 6th grade and her favorite subject is Bible.
Lately they have been studying King Solomon Chooses Wisdom
and the 10 Commandments and Plagues.
Most of the classes are 45 minutes long.
The last two classes of the day are 50 and 35 minutes. The day ends at 2:00 pm.
Monday: English, Bible, Math, Science
RECESS
Writing, Health and Reading
Tuesday: Reading, Computer, Math, Phonics
RECESS
Social Studies, Spelling and Art
Wednesday: Reading, Bible, Math, Science
RECESS
French, Health, and Typing
Thursday: English, Computer, Science, Math
RECESS
Social Studies, Physical Education and Spelling
Friday: English, Reading, Social Studies, Phonics
RECESS
Writing, Health and Typing
WE bought sand and cement and picked up the doors for the clinic.
1 Load of Sand -- $110
13 Bags of Cement --$120
Transportation-- $8
On Day Ten, I sense that a Name which best describes God is "Beyond Understanding.
"As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in the womb,
so you cannot understand the work of God, the maker of all things."
Ecclesiastes 11:5
I am following Pastor Wesley around. Today, we went to see how the workers were doing.
They are using the cement and sand and mixing them to cover the cement blocks
with a thin layer of "plaster" that is smooth. Pastor thinks it will take them 4-5 days
and he told me that he is paying them $70.
I have made progress. Apathy has turned into Concern. [as per Joe's editorial direction]
I am trying to focus on the positive, but I seem soooo far away. . . .[ 'a worry' is edited out]
I think that this trip is WAAAAAY too much for me and way too long.
My only comfort is that all of you are being so encouraging and
Pastor Wesley and Laura seem to think it is ok for me to be here.
I love you, Pray that GOD WILL SHOW HIMSELF TO ME TODAY... cause I really need Him.
Mom,
I do not think that I am living a humble life. I cannot find practical ways to help.
It seems like every way that I could work would make more work for them.
Even going to the church with Pastor Wesley means that it is harder for him
to catch a cab and costs twice as much.
I can play with the kids and smile at them.
I am obeying the Wesleys whenever they tell me to do anything.
later,
joe
About those at the Children's Home:
Lovetee's parents came back about 2 weeks ago and they were reunited.
There are currently 16 children at the children's home.
These seven children are still here. These photographs are from 2004 when there were 36 children living at the Home.
Joseph Brown Marwulin Brown Friday Cole Samuel Cole Reuben Johns Jerry Khangar Pinkay Lathrobe
God has shown me that He will do what he wants and no matter what my plans
have been, He can surprise me. If I plan to help people, He can show me how
much help I need and how He provides for them.
Thanks for all of your support, my dear family.
Today, Pastor Wesley was having some tiles put into his bathroom.
It is about a 5' by 6' space and contains a toilet and a small plasitic "tub".
You can about sit down Indian-style in the "tub" but I am still confused
about how I am to wash my hands.
I usually take two baths, one in the morning and one in the evening.
One of the ladies or children will prepare a small bucket of cold or lukewarm water
and put it in the bathroom. Then I will take myself in there and try to situate my things
in an area where they will not get wet or too wrinkled and give myself a spongebath or
carefully pour the water over my head. It gets quite interesting in the dark sometimes.
Yesterday, I even dropped my glasses in the toilet somehow, but I was able to pull them
out and wash them in the bucket with the antiseptic.
Keep praying for me all the time. I LOVE YOU and I LOVE when you send me emails.
It is tough if I check and there is nothing waiting for me.
Oh, I also played scrabble with Matthew, Pastor and Roland. I lost terrible and I really
hate to lose, but it is alright. Then we went into town and at the third hardware store
found the rest of the tiles that Pastor will need to finish his bathroom. Then we went
to the computer place because he wanted a man there to store a logo that looks like
his church on his memory stick for when they make up flyers.
I was very intrigued at the looks of the computer place. It was very loud there because
they had the generator running. There were probably twenty or thirty computers or
more (old ones) and typewriters all over the place. And people were there typing and
printing up different things. I think that most of them were probably for church groups
or for people applying for loans. I noticed a church letter next to me and on the other
side it was a proposal for a business growing Casava.
Love You all SOOOO MUCH!!!
Joe Joe
Little Robbie shows me acts of unconditional love.
Although he likes it when I give him juice or hold him,
he does not smile and run at me solely for those purposes.
There were 4 visitors at church today.
The sermon was from Jonah 2:7
● God has GOOD intentions for His children. ● Discipline is good.
● We have to agree with God's Discipline. ● God is in Control.
● God needs to prepare our lives so we can really be blessed.
(It wouldn't be wise for Him to bless us if we were not prepared for it).
● We always need to be thankful.
I met Aletha who turned 9 today and decided that I would give her $1.
Responsive Prayers:
1. Lord Jesus, As I have patiently played with Richard Jr. may you use
this time in his life to grow him into the man you want him to be.
2. God, Thank you for the work that is being done at the clinic.
May you use that place to bring people into your family.
I just sent you some more photos. I kept trying to tell you what they were
but Kodak EasyShare is not totally foolproof.
The building is the National Police Headquarters.
The yellow substance in the bowl is breakfast. Served piping-hot it contains plantains
(banana like but not as sweet), peppers, sardines, edoes (similar to potatoes).
These white things are called Fufu (foo-foo). It is made of cooked, ground casava.
They have the consistency of dense gelatin. It is hard for me to describe.
Anyways, you are supposed to swallow it without chewing.
Standing to the south of the Greater Love Bible Baptist Church,
these men are plastering the walls of the building which will serve as the Medical Clinic.
Yes and No. I have been working in the morning trying to answer these
questions positively and truthfully.
I am in the bedroom.
No, I have been too discouraged because when I open the Bible
and talk to God I do not feel peace. There are so many
distractions around and I am constantly looking for excuses.
I will begin a quiet time in the afternoon when there is less activity.
Today we are going to go to the clinic and check on the workers.
They need to be kept accountable. We also are going to go buy more concrete.
Yet Another Note: 5:46 p.m. Liberia time (electricity shuts off at 6:00 p.m.)
GOOD STUFF Work is continuing for the Medical Clinic.
Today we went and bought 5 more bags of cement so that the workers
will be able to finish plastering the inside and the outside of the clinic.
Of the money that FBC Galt members entrusted to my discretion,
I have shared much with Pastor Wesley to work on the Clinic.
So far we have spent:
$110 On a Load of Sand
$120 On 13 bags of Cement
$ 8 On transportation for the cement
$ 30 An advance on the labor cost
$ 10 WahWah (the platforms that the workers stand on to plaster)
$ 9 Worker's Food
$ 49 For 5 additional bags of cement
$ 1.50 For a Straight Edge (I think this is for the wall to give it a nice straight corner)
$ 2 Transportion of personnel
====
$339.50
We still need to pay $40 for the final labor costs of the plastering.
Next, Pastor Wesley has decided to move to the ceiling because
we may have money to complete that portion.
After that we will need to raise support to put down a cement floor,
put windows (complete with window bars), whitewash the building ... etc.
We will also need to put up an eave as the front door would be at
risk from the rain when that season arrives.
I will keep you posted.
I think that we are getting more blackboards made for the Children's Home
to aid in the schooling effort there. Pastor Wesley and I will be returning
to the home on Friday.
As you can see, Richard Jr. likes mayonnaise.
There are quite a few fires as people burn trash.
One came especially close to Pastor's house.
All the girls can balance water on their heads. (click on photos to enlarge)
:D (note: that is an open mouth smile)
Later,
Joe
God's way in my life is not always clear at the time and he does not
promise to keep all the bad things from happening to us. But, he has
given us the Bible and Godly advisors to help us so that we should not
fall for the Devil's tricks or give in to our own evil desires. He will show
us what is right, but the choice is up to us.
1) Pastor Wesley is practical because he knows that we cannot give too much
money to the workers until the job is complete. (The money is the trump card
and the final determination of whether the job was completed to satisfaction--
if the worker is paid then they may not return or may not complete the job to
satisfaction-- then where would we be? ... out of money and losing credibility
with the donors.)
2) The taxi drivers are practical. They always try to have a full taxi (6 or more passengers).
This supports the most people and helps them to gain more fares as well.
3) Laura Wesley is practical. She finds enough time and strength to keep her family fed
and her house in order. She instructs her children to help her because that is practical.
I have had difficulty making real friends in the past. Richard Jr. and Priscilla have spent
a lot of time with me in the evenings telling stories and riddles. God wants to show me
that they genuinely care about me, not just the gifts I brought. I need to be open to
closer relationships and learn more about them.
Hey Papa,
Yes, I am up 1 1/2 hours after you sent your letter. I see what you are doing on
Joe's Letters page--very transparent.
Don't get sick. Make sure you have plenty of time to rest. I have still been resting
quite a bit around here. We go out to the project site about once a day and take pictures.
Glad to hear that Bible study was Great. We had an enjoyable time last night in
Bible Study/ Prayer Meeting. Bible Study focused on 1 Peter 3:14 about suffering
for what is right and the blessings that can come out of it.
I have not suffered much in my life, but it was good to hear how God has confirmed
His word in the lives of those who suffered in Liberia. Prayers of Thanksgiving were
continually offered up. I need to try that more.
God thank you for my family and for all those in Liberia who care about me.
Thank you for FBC Galt, how they have been so supportive of me in the past and
how they have helped Pastor Wesley here in Liberia.
Love You,
Joe
Thank you, Iona, for your timely letter. I recognize that it is 2 am in California.
I have such a difficulty understanding what is happening right now but
if I can truly trust that God is working and that he does not always
have to comfort me then I will be ok.
I hope I can trust God's words that He will never leave me and that
I can trust those in the church who say that these feelings are normal and will pass.
Thanks Again, Joe
Mom,
I asked Pastor Wesley about Diamond and his sister, Mercy. They have been reunited
with their mother or grandmother. The mother is a girl who is still in school and the
grandmother had been the one who had been taking care of them.
Pastor Wesley said that Monkunjay is back with her guardians. Since the end of the war
most of the guardians/parents have come. When the parents returned from refugee camps
or other parts of Liberia or other countries they started looking for their children.
Red Cross advertised the names of children on the street and helped them become reunited
with their parents. Yeah, so that is where she is.
Most of the children at the home before were temporary, but now the home is transitioning
to where most of the children will be permanent. This falls in line with the Ministry of Health
and Social Welfare guidelines because the children are not war-related children. Their status
will be much more permanent and Pastor Wesley hopes to obtain an adoption license in the
next three weeks. We are starting the process in the middle of next week. Pastor Wesley is
hopeful that we will be able to get it in the next 21 days.
Eight more children may be added to the present number (16). They are coming from Bomi Hills
in the North of the country. These children will be permanent at the home and some of these kids
may be adopted as well as some of the present ones that are there.
The Children's Home will be serving two purposes:
Most of the children will be there to get the needed help (education, clothing, food, etc.) that will prepare them for their future. Some of them are not really adoptable.
Some of the children will be in transit at the home and then they will be adopted to American
families through Addy's Hope Adoption Agency when the Greater Love Children's Home adoption
license is finally obtained.
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength." and
"Hear us, O shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock." Psalm 80:1
Hey Papa,
I really like the slideshow. (CLICK for slideshow)
Today we are going to deliver most of the toys and school materials to the Children's Home.
Please pray that God will be able to use the little that we have offered to them.
To me, it seems like a couple loaves and fish trying to feed 5,000 men.
Well, God has worked miracles before.
I will try to have some good photos for you.
Pastor Wesley says:
"The materials are extremely good for early learning except that most of
them are just single copies and as such cannot be shared amongst the entire
class. What we may do is to get a copier and a small generator at the school
so that the teachers will make copies as necessary to be shared amongst the
students where necessary.
We thank you so much for putting your love and heart in the work of the Lord
for the poor orphans that are at Greater Love Children's Home (GLCH).
With this donation I believe our school is going to be rated as one of the best
on the Duport Road, Paynesville area. The children at GLCH have never before
had such an opportunity to be schooled in their own school building. But now
the Lord has blessed them to have a three classroom building and then to have
quality books that they need to begin with. What a great blessing.
Yesterday, out of the discretionary fund we made three blackboards for them.
And so everything is fresh and of comfort for these neglected children with whom
you are surrendering your love. Pray for us as we endeavor to impact their lives
with Christian and ethical training without which they will not become the honorable,
notable personalities of the future. So ... again, we say thank you very much.
Later, Joe
Dear Church: These photos sent earlier today also contain children from the
community as the entire school was called out for the photo. So, it is more
like a school photo because it also contains the 10 children from the community
who attend school there.
Pastor Wesley met one of the teachers, James, for the first time today.
Here is what Pastor Wesley has to say,
"Pictured is one of the teachers that has been serving sacrificially since
the ninth of January. Even though none of the two teachers have got to
know their salaries yet, but yet, they have been serving in a loving and
caring way. From what we observe today, we are pleased with their services
and we think that they should be hired to serve as teachers for
Greater Love Christian School and Day Care Center. They were very happy
as we presented the gifts of books to them to make their work easier and efficient.
We thank you for helping in raising the standard of our school. We are praying
fervently that the school will not remain purely on an academic level, but it will
excel to a vocational level (by this I mean we want to include maybe typing or
computer for the kids). As you know, the times in which we find ourselves requires
much more vocational skills as a yardstick for the future. So will you please pray
along with us in this manner.
Since the inception of the orphanage home we have not had a school program to
call our own. We have been sending the kids to a nearby private school, but
information has it that the kids were not receiving proper training even though
we were underwriting the cost for their school.
Now that we have our own facilities, our hearts are glad and we want to make
the most use of the facilities for the benefit of impoverished children.
Your sacrifice and the resources you sent to GLCH we want you to remember
are not overlooked.
We thank God for you for going an extra mile each day in thinking about
helping someone who is in need. Sometimes it is difficult in explaining the
situation involving individual kids who have in time past received your help
but had to be reunited with their parents.
You have to understand that our situation has been abnormal due to the past
war and cases surrounding the war sometimes do interfere with the normal operation
of the children's home.But now that we know the war is over and peace has come,
our operation will become normal and steady and kids who are not receiving help
will receive a long-term help that will bring them to a place of thankfulness.
My heart breaks when I see poor children roaming the villages or the open
streets who have no kind of care. It becomes our responsibility (you and I) as
God's children to do something. We may not be able to do or fulfill all the
needs that requires help, but we can do something to help someone who
will be thankful in the future.
I am happy that Joe Patterson is helping me do some of the work.
Just last night I was talking about getting a secretary to help us do the
work of the church and the orphanage home. Sometimes, I have some work
to do, but just don't have the time to communicate or to send photos as I
would love to do because I have to be at the work, or the project, or
evangelism, or teaching, or preaching.
So, my head is dipped into a ministry work to such an extent that it may seem
that I don't want to keep the line of communication open. If I am not at these
projects to make sure things work and they fail, I will be held responsible so I
always want to be there to assure that things work in an acceptable way.
And then when all is done, I sent you a bulk report of any specific project.
Please bear with me if I am not on top of things as you would have loved it to be.
Joe Patterson is a great asset and help to me at this particular time coupled with
the blessing of having an internet at home and so you notice that we are able to
send you information either hourly or daily. Again, Thank you very much for your
heart of love for Liberia. I am honored by the respect and trust that you have in
me and I promise to do my best as God gives me the grace.
The Liberian schools are working under constraints but yet, they are bringing out
of the school system the best that is almost comparable to typical American schools.
Book donations from America is bringing this particular school on the level of a typical
American school even though it will take some time to reach that mark.
So, all we can say is that something is working and it is working for the best."
Pastor Richard Kla Wesley
My obedience to my parents has helped me make relationships with many people outside of
my peer group. These people have sponsored me in my activities to sing and share the
knowledge of Jesus in many foreign countries.
You received such long letters from Pastor Wesley because I don't see the good
that is going on. So, I decided that I would allow him to explain what he sees.
I have such a negative view. But I believe that there is a God who loves me and
that the Bible is true. I pray that He will guide me to be the righteous and obedient
one that he desires so that He can bless me.
Monday we will be sending in an application for the adoption license. At least we
will begin the process.
Daddy,
Sorry for being negative and it is good that we are helping these children who
would not have other opportunities to receive any schooling.
Any schooling is better than nothing, right? I see good in the faces of the children.
They are happy to be in class and they are happy to see me there to give them
candy. It is just hard for me to see the progress that is going on with the limited
resources that they have. The children in one class were trying to match the
number to the picture representation of the amount.
They are learning Bible verses. Sorry for the corrupt communication and anything
negative that I have spoken. I am waging war within myself to find the good in
these situations. Everyone around me tells me it is good, but I need to defeat
the flesh and the Devil within my own mind. It seems like a faith thing. I am all
tangled up right now because God is not removing my doubts and I need not trust
in these stupid feelings.
It rained last night and that was a great blessing because it kept the room cool.
There was lightning and very loud thunder. Things are being accomplished here.
As I ask Pastor Wesley these questions and then send back the answers, that is good.
As I seek to see what He and you and God see when they look at this situation may
my eyes be opened that I may be freed from my doubt and fear and all those other
elements that come from the thief, the destroyer, the one who hates me. I do not
want him to have a stronghold in my life.
I want to do what is right, but I cannot do it without the help of God.
God, Help me or I will be destroyed. I trust that you will not abandon me because I call
out to you. You know my heart and you know how wicked people can be.
Surely the fact that I am asking for your help and have confessed my sins to you will
cause you to have mercy on me. Oh Lord, deliver me from the lies of the devil and the
negative perception of the good things that are happening around me and from the
sarcastic attitude and the disbelief that pervades my mind.
Without you, I can do nothing. And there is no other name by which I can be saved.
Jesus, Help me.
Love You, Joe
Hello There,
Today Pastor Wesley and I went to the area of the Freeport of Liberia (where all the ships from around the world bring their exports). We went to the 'junkyard' where they have all sorts of scrap iron and other things. There we bought some materials for making signposts that will be placed in different communities inviting them to attend Greater Love Bible Baptist Church.
Other things that were of interest to me were the two garbage cans that I noticed on the street and two working traffic lights. These are common things around the United States, but they are luxuries in a nation as desolated as Liberia. Once again I was overcome at the vastness of the need here as I see literally hundreds of people who operate little carts, or carry small trays on their heads, or have small shops trying to make a living. Children walk around with buckets on their heads calling out to people if they would like to buy a small bag of cold water.
Later,
Joe
Selling your house is a very radical move. Where would you live?
The greatest investments I have seen in Liberia is by the Lebanese.
They must be making a killing in the supermarket and construction businesses.
But what is seen is temporary and here in Africa many things do not last long
because the rust and dust destroy them or the thieves break in and steal.
I have been thinking about how to invest $40 that was entrusted to me.
I see all of the people on the street, but when I talk to Pastor Wesley he reminds
me that they are actually taking care of themselves and that the children at the
Children's Home are more vulnerable.
Dear Dad,
I was talking to Abigail, Priscilla, and Richard Jr. after I had played some card games with
all the children. Eunice is the most vocal about telling me what she wants me to get and
write for her.
But Abigail also chimed in a little last night. They wanted me to send you an email saying
that the girls need some books: Spelling, Writing, History of Liberia, English, Science, Health,
Computer, and Reading.
They would also request some copy books, book bags, clothes, bicycles
(3 for Abigail, Eunice and Richard jr.), Sports Slippers, Shoes, Pens and Pencils,
baby toys, a video car game, and hair ties.
Laura says the girls are greedy. Ruth wants me to say that she loves to eat.
Priscilla does not love to eat. Eunice loves to eat. Abigail is hungry.
Laura says, "Jr. loves to lick."
Eunice repeated:
"Small, Small make Big"
I took that to mean that maybe from a small request something big could come.
Time for Breakfast, better get going.
Later... and I sincerely love you and want to see what you see.
LOVE,
JOEY
I asked some people:
What can I do for you?
I was thinking about asking other questions, but they were too far in the future.
I wanted to know things ahead of time and I remembered that God has promised us
that we will have what we need for the day and that today has enough trouble of its own,
so I found one good question to ask.
God has a good plan for my life. He wants me to trust Him day by day.
He wants me to trust Him more than any other person.
Every good thing is from God and the good thoughts are God speaking to me.
I was hearing that song, "Hallowed be thy name ... You are love you are life, you are Lord over everything ...."
Today we went and bought more materials for the clinic. We bought some cement,
cement blocks for making the windows smaller, some cement for the floor, paid some
of the workers for supplies for the window frames and window bars. We are trying to
keep within our budget and...ha ha...I don't know how all of this will work.
We received the money for the Children's Home/School and have plans
to go buy some small lesson books and reams of paper for the school and figure
out some deal to pay the teachers.
These are things that I remember my father telling me:
1. Do what God wants you to do.
2. God has a specific plan for you.
3. "Serve." (click for Dad's song: Serve)
4. "There's a voice...Don't." (click for: There's a Voice...)
5. You can't outgive God.
6. Every person is important (even seniors and children and those with handicaps).
7. Speak out for Truth no matter what is legal or accepted.
This is the kind of thing that I have been writing in my spiral bound notebook.
Mostly, I get up in the morning and write about the day before.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Today we went to Western Union to pick up donations that had been made to pay the teachers at the school and to do more work at the clinic. Next, we went into Sinkor and found a carpenter and a man who can do masonry work. They will be reducing the double windows to single windows and putting in the window frames & windows. We are also employing another man to make the window bars (for protection) and took him to buy supplies.
On our way back to the church we stopped to buy more concrete and cement blocks. As the cement blocks were being loaded I helped Pastor Wesley convert the price from Liberian Dollars to US Dollars. When the men said that they all were loaded, Pastor noticed that the amount did not look like the full 80 that we bought.
Everyone insisted that the amount was correct until he threatened to make them correct any mistake at their own expense and time. After this warning, the cement block loaders loaded more blocks and we left. When we arrived at the church we had them stacked in groups of 10. There were exactly 80-no more no less.
Recently, we have received reports about attempts to take bags of cement by reporting that a bag is finished when it is not. Pastor Wesley has done an EXCELLENT job of minimizing these losses. But, it takes a toll because workers have to be supervised or the valuable materials go missing which would put us over budget, place suspicion in the minds of those helping us and remove the ability to ever get anything completed.
I think that some work will be done at the church today and I will try to get some good pictures and send some cost amounts.
Love,
Joe
The main one that I heard was "Every person is Important."
I am still struggling to hear what God wants me to do specifically
and how to best serve those around me.
I can't remember any name of Revelation not in the Bible,
but Pastor Wesley and Laura have been reminding me some names of God.
How He is our Provider of anything good,
the Creator,
the One who wakes me up,
and my Protector at night.
I am becoming a more sensitive individual to God's voice (at least I am striving to hear it more).
I am listening intently and trying to do what God would have me to do.
I am realizing more and more that a relationship with God is not automatic.
I have heard that the way God develops a person's abilities is by placing them in the opposite situation.
Well, I have been asking God for more faith and have been placed
around many people with great faith and am trying to gain
some of their insight while asking God to reveal himself to me.
Today's Sermon:
Jonah 4: Do not be angry when someone repents and gets favor from the Lord.
God does not make rash decisions.
When we pray, we should censor our prayers-- knowing how to pray to the will of God.
When we pray, we should pray for the good of others. Jonah knew the character of God.
I was able to meet Deacon George's children: Aaron and Loveann.
I just heard about how work is good--not because of what you produce but just to work.
I know that we will be having Communion today,
so I am really trying to examine my heart and to speak the Truth:
Today will be a good day at church!
God will be present with His people!
God will guide me as I follow Pastor Wesley!
God will provide my daily needs and I don't need to worry about the future!
I WILL focus on the POSITIVE and see the GOOD.
Love,
Joe
Blackaby points:
Oh, God, if I ever give You a request and
You have more to give me than I am asking, cancel my request.
Only the Spirit of God knows what God is doing or purposing in my life.
God will let me know what He is doing in my life when and if I need to know.
Sometimes God's silences are due to sin.
Sometimes God is silent as He prepares to bring me into a deeper understanding of Himself.
Joe:
The Devil tries to tell us that God's silence is because:
1) He doesn't exist or
2) He hates us and our sin.
I am accepting the Truth that God loves me and forgives me.
Therefore, if He does not reveal His plan to me,
I can relax--trusting that He will when I am ready and when I need to know.
Instead of focusing on knowing what God plans,
I should be very careful to do what I KNOW He wants and be patient for future revelation.
Some people are sick, others are inspired, some are looking for God.
Maybe a clinic would help the sick.
Maybe the completion of a long awaited plan will encourage Pastor Wesley.
Every day He gladly reminds me how much we accomplish.
Maybe the clinic will lead some people to find their true healing
at the Greater Love Bible Baptist Church.
Do my best to help Pastor keep good records and communicate.
Luke 23: 50-51 Now there was a man named Joseph,
a member of the Council, a good and upright man,
who had not consented to their decision and action.
This was valuable to me in that Joseph of Arimathea believed Jesus
even when those around him did not agree.
He also gave of his resources
even when others would not have seen the effectiveness.
"When God gets ready for me to take a new step or direction in His activity,
it will be in sequence with what He has already been doing in my life."
For me: God has had me be an obedient helper. In the past, I have learned to respect
godly authority and the value of being flexible, giving up my rights and feelings
and trusting my leader. My new steps are really more of the same -- to trust God
and the authority He has placed over me and to be a good helper as responsibilities
are delegated to me.
Jerry: We have seen Jerry's skill at playing the drums and he is a successful leader
among his peers. It is good for Jerry to be a witness through his band and to use
his connections to help others grow closer to God.
Daniel: Daniel has been working with Myspace and video taping and video editing.
He seems to be quite skilled and interested in that area. It was great to see
the Napoleon Dynamite skit on the website. Maybe Daniel could do some other
cool stuff for outreach on Myspace or on the web.
Mary: Mary is a very good communicator and always has a plan. She does not give up
easily and takes time with little children. She enjoys caring for little babies and
can work well in a group.
Cathy: Mom has always cared about children and is a natural teacher. She has a kind heart
and loves to help others. I am glad to see her substitute teaching now, but wonder
where she will be in the future. I think her gifts and talents at caring and teaching
are larger than a day here, a day there.
Today is another busy day.
Please pray that I can accept things even when they are not perfect.
For some reason, I want things to go right the first time so that Pastor's work will go faster.
But it is ok for us to learn as we go along.
Today is a meeting with the Health Minister, so I am already late.
Love You,
Joe
Pastor Wesley is the key leader.
Edward, Brother Roberts, the 4 boys living at the clinic
(Amos, Powers, Darlington, and Morris),
Deacon George and Matthew Kpah are some of the key followers that I have seen.
Building a clinic that has appropriate medical supplies, trained personnel,
and is accessible to the community is a God-sized assignment.
There are many groups helping in Liberia,
but it is either not their focus,
not their area, or not in their timetable or budget to assist this particular clinic.
But if the need and call is there -- it can be done.
Two Blackaby's points:
When God lets me know what He wants to do through me, it will be something only God can do.
Though it is scary and criticized to attempt things beyond our own strength --- that is the way that God is assured to get the glory. If we think we can accomplish a task on our own, why would we thank God? It is when we know we cannot and God does the work that we know God has done it.
What I believe about God will determine what I do.
If I do not believe God, then I will drag my feet, sit down, or run the opposite direction. If I believe God then I will travel full speed ahead, yoked with Christ.
I remember many times when mommy has come to the rescue or been there to clap or whistle for my success. At Rohnert Park, my siblings and I were running in the church and I hit my head on a table and she was there to apply pressure to the cut until the bleeding lessened. I sent her many other memories today as well.
Focus on the Good things ...
I have been singing songs, hymns and spiritual songs. I have been trying to count my blessings. I have been playing with children, smiling, helping and obeying. I have been trying to have a deeper relationship with God and allow Him to guide my steps.
Yes, this is consistent with what I truly believe, though there are times when I get frustrated, afraid, critical, worryful and doubtful ... these are the times when I feel worse and upset and they are inconsistent with the Truth that I know.
I do not really have any ideas about what I will pursue in the next year. Just a thought, probably helping my parents. Wonder if this summer I should again venture with the New America Singers. It was quite an awesome trip last year and I love the group. But I need more direction from God so that I do not merely take Joe's path or fall prey to a pattern. I want to follow God's leading in my life.
Psalm 119: Dear Lord, I pray that you would protect my Dad and help him continue
to live a life that is blameless and continue to bless him.
Thank you for giving him to me as a teacher and a pale shadow of the Father
you are. Bless us to grow closer as I come to understand more of your character.
Thank you for a father who has taught me your ways and walked the talk.
I have sought opportunities to type for Pastor Wesley and his sermon scripts.
Hearing the verses and messages will help me. I need to get up and make time
to do these devotions so I do not get behind.
Sometimes obedience costs our money alone, but more often, it costs our time,
our attitudes and our focus. How will I treat him when I do not have time?
What will I do when I am tired or afraid?
My biggest challenge is to do the small acts of obedience. It is possible that the
larger issues will be answered after I obey in the small things.
My obedience is costly to those around me.
I can trust God to care for my family.
Don't deny others the opportunity to sacrifice for the Lord.
I need to trust Christ to communicate with His people.
Lord, whatever you may ask of me today or in the future, my answer is yes!
Joe, please choose one of the above assertions and write/interact with it.
The note about answering YES. Not only is this the expected response,
but I have found it to be the best response! I want to always say Yes to (and then DO)
what the Lord asks of me because it is best.
I need to trust God to tell me what He wants me to do in the future.
Guess that tomorrow I will start PDL (the Purpose Driven Live).
Lord Jesus, Help me!
"The purpose of life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your
happiness . . . you must begin with God."
This ties in with what Blackaby and everyone else has been saying. Prayer and
faith and reading the Bible develop this relationship so He can show us the path.
But we need not focus on happiness or peace of mind instead focus on praying
and doing God's will. Peace will come later, Right?? --Joe
God made me for a purpose. He planned for me to be an American, go to
good schools, and to care about people. There are abilities and experiences
I possess that need to be invested and experiences and attitude adjustments
are part of God's preparation for my future.
Finding what God has for my life is most valuable. The alternatives would not be satisfying.
Without God's purpose for me, I could change jobs and other circumstances seeking joy
and peace, or I could seek rest, but it would all be vanity.
If we don't invest in eternal things, then we are building on a false foundation and
it will all eventually crush us. All of our days have some purpose for eternity.
We can either follow the purpose, or fill the time with things of this world.
We should not let the cares and concerns for corruptible things distract us from
the value of those that will last.
We must use every day to the fullest, because God has entrusted it to us.
It makes me as an American afraid because we are trusted with so much
wealth and opportunities. Those of us who have been given so much by God
need to make sure that we are not wasting it on ourselves or letting it spoil
and rot. It is fine to enjoy what God has given us, but there is a limit and
Americans are obese in so many ways. How could I ever give a valuable return
for all of the opportunities that God has given me? The truth is that we cannot
repay what we have been entrusted, but with God's help we can grow to use
it more effectively.
Pg.49 "With all the fascinating attractions, mesmerizing media, and enjoyable experiences available today,
it's easy to forget that the pursuit of happiness is not what life's about.
This is a hard thing for someone to read if they just want to be happy.
Growing up, I have found happiness in doing good and unhappiness usually
resulted from doing something wrong. I concluded, if I do good then I will
be happy and if I am not happy, it is a sign of something I did wrong.
Sometimes we just need to do good and not question why we feel a certain way. --Joe
Luke 12: 13-21 The story of the foolish farmer
Someone in the crowd said to him,
"Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."
Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?"
Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed;
a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop.
He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.'
"Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones,
and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself,
"You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." '
"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you.
Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
"This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God."
Now, this man was a good worker but he placed value on stuff and
did not recognize God's sovereignty. The points included in the message
consisted of discussing covetousness and how the love of things causes
all sorts of evil especially war. The main problem with the man in this
story is that he sought goods first and trusted that he would be happy
and his soul would be at rest with his great possessions. It is necessary
to desire God above goods and to understand that possessions themselves
will not bring lasting peace and that God is the only one who truly
knows how our lives will turn out.
I want God to smile when He watches me. I need to watch for more
opportunities in everyday activities to worship God through my
attitude and actions. Remember that God provides these
opportunities and they will also lead to a life containing real
pleasure. When I worship God, I can be satisfied with the life.
Pg. 72 "In fact, you will never understand some commands
until you obey them first."
This is a very difficult idea for a young man to receive.
It is hard to accept things we do not understand.
We need to trust God and many times this means
trusting the advice of other people.
We don't have to understand or see the final outcome of everything.
Yes, there is a basic judgment when you obey someone, but that
does not require understanding. Many times I have obeyed my
parents in simple things. They didn't always give me the full
explanation, but because I knew THEY were good many times
I obeyed without question. We never have to wait for God's
answers to our questioning before we obey his commands.
I will focus on saying small, short prayers throughout the day,
especially as I am reminded by thoughts or activities around me.
I will continue to have good scripture songs playing in my mind
and remember God's presence as I do daily activities.
These are good and obedient-- even if I don't get a good feeling,
it will reduce my worries and honor God.
Being in Day 51 is quite an interesting time to think about numbering my days.
As a young man of 20, I think that I better get my life together because
I do not want to feel like this for the long period ahead. But, it is also clear
that we should all get our lives right with God and understand His purpose
because this could be our last week.
I trust that I will get through the 80 days, and take it for granted as I
look ahead and sometimes worry about what I will do next. A proper
view of life and time would be the daily surrender of my thoughts,
actions, and plans to the One who is outside of time.
I have to take every day as it comes with Thanksgiving and pay
attention to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit.
pg. 94 To be God's friend, you must be honest to God,sharing your true feeling, not what you think you ought to feel or say.
As this is so, we should not dwell on feelings and our own perceptions. Briefly acknowledge our lack of understanding
and then take a more positive step by reciting the Biblical cure. It is not deceit to communicate with God that although
we have deep emotions, we do not want to live without faith. So as much as we can-- we speak the absolute truth
of God's Word. Even if it does not drastically, immediately change our feelings, the Truth has gone forth and God
honors our attempts.
pg. 105 God is pleased when your worship is practical.
Warren used this idea to mention that people who will not bother to go, but instead say their spirit is there -- that is worthless.
Well, I might not go that far, but it is very valuable to Pastor Wesley to someone from FBC Galt visit regularly. It is important to
go and do instead of just praying. Good thoughts and money are good, but many times the worship can be in the feet.
If you won't go, make sure that God has some reason for you to stay. --Joe
Today was another fine service at Greater Love Bible Baptist Church.
Since it was the first Sunday of the month, we remembered the Lord's Supper.
The Theme of the Sermon today was The Imperfect Made Perfect -- from James 1:2-5
The main message that was conveyed was when trials come our way, we should see the trials in the way
God is dealing with us (from God's perspective). Gold has to go through the refining process.
When God allows trials, it is a result for our own good. When the trails are aborted, cut short, it will not produce
the patience necessary for this perverse world. God has a timing.
Job 42:5 "I have heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you."
Trials are not for evil; God will allow them for my own good.
Practical Aspect: Many people in Liberia do not have what they would desire so sermons widely use verses
about overcoming trials and the benefits that will come later. "Deep valley experience before mountaintop delight".
Well, I needed to hear this sermon as well.
There were around 70 people at church today and 8? visitors. One was a man who is returning for a short time from Lebanon.
He is excited and wants to see his Lebanese church help Pastor Wesley.
Day 14 (PDL) is about trusting God and having faith even when you cannot feel His presence. Though God promises
to never leave us, sometimes He hides himself from us to test us and strengthen our relationship. --Joe
Truth compels us to help other believers. We need to connect (hmm ... I guess I was distracted when I was writing this) with
those who are in need, especially those who have the love of Christ in them and are helping people in Jesus' name. --Joe
I have generally considered myself a rather loving person. Now I am beginning to struggle with more long term
concerns and they have fogged my mind. This has led to very close relationships with my parents, but also to a
more isolated, introverted existence. In my concern, I have tended to not be as outgoing to make new friends or
genuinely care about others. Even as it feels like I do not have the same drive as in past years-- I believe it is still
important. So I trust God and step-by-step make advances in these Godly relationships. --Joe
Living away from your family: Today's study is all about how we all need a local, dependable group of believers
to share life with. I am happy to have a church family at FBC Galt. It's hard growing and being away. But, I have
still found great encouragement from my family in Galt. It is hard to go away and to commit. Tough when I was
at school because though I was there, my heart had not settled with a new church family. The important thing is
having groups of believers who you are accountable to even if you cannot always be with them. --Joe
The main difficulty with being authentic comes when we feel weak and do not know how to change the situation ourselves.
pg.140 "it means facing our fear of exposure, rejection, and being hurt again"
It is easy to be honest when everything is
great and things are looking up, but it is difficult to tell people your concerns and daily failings. The benefit is that God has
created us and placed us in a family to help each other. We do not need to fear our brothers and they provide strength
and a listening ear when we are weak.
I say I want the blessings that come with humility, and I do not want to be proud. It is hard to serve others and
forget about ourselves. We see what we see all day. We know what we feel and what we want all the time.
It takes effort to feel what others need and to see what they see. --Joe
Today's lesson was written to instruct the reader how to restore human relationships. I feel like I keep pretty good
relationships with others. Where this applies to me seems to be the reminder that there are some needs that only
God can fill. I have many reliable people who care for me very much, but there are inner workings and spiritual lessons
that they cannot do for me. They can and do pray for me, but the rest is a process with God so that God and I can build
our own relationship. --Joe
pg. 164 It is the Devil's job to blame, complain, and criticize members of God's family.
pg 162 ..."we must passionately love the church in spite of its imperfections.
Longing for the ideal while criticizing the real is evidence of immaturity ... Maturity is living with the tension.
I am being guided to focus on all the good things instead of seeking tiny differences.
Pastor Wesley is a great leader and far above ____.
(I guess he is far above what many would require or expect from someone in this situation).
Why would I want to criticize him? Though I check to make sure he is honest.
I am a witness to the intense ... oh what is the word, earnestness? character? faithfulness? of this man.
Today was another service at Greater Love Bible Baptist Church.
One of the songs we sang was "Forgive us one more time".
The instruments include tambourines and shakers.
Sometimes during Sunday School we will all pray out loud to God at the same time.
Praise and Worship was a little more lively today as most of the people move about
in their areas and we all clap our hands with the beat. I am beginning to learn some
of the words to the more common choruses, and when we sing the hymns I can read every word.
As usual we enjoyed a Sunday School message from 1 Peter 5, we are now in verses 8,9.
Sunday School lasts for about an hour from the time the first 15 people are there and as
others arrive until around 11 am when the regular service begins.
The theme of the message was Exposing Hell:
Point 1:The Darkness of hell. Matthew 8:12; 2 Peter 2:4
Point 2: The fire of Hell.
Point 3: The depth of hell. Revelation 9:1
Point 4: The loneliness of Hell. Luke 16:24, Matthew 8:12
Point 5: The thirst of hell. Luke 16:26
Point 6: The endlessness of hell. 2 Thessalonians 1:8,9
This message was not to scare the congregation, but to inform them and remind
them what God has saved us from. If today's message was a bit unnerving--
next week's promises to be sweet. It will be about heaven.
After the sermon, Pastor brought forward the man from Lebanon.
He is excited about contacting his home church, First Baptist Bible Church in Beirut and
believes they could assist GLBBC and myself. It is great to be part of an excited church
where God is bringing people to partner together.
I do not want to be in denial of reality. I do not want to be severely disillusioned.
I want to accept the God-given trials and opportunities even if they do not seem easy.
I do not want to make my life more difficult by opposing God. I want to be content and
have God's peace even if He places me in a position I would not seek for myself.
Today's reading is about spiritual growth and maturing to become like Jesus.
We have to make full, Godly commitments. We have to change our minds to
focus on helping others. Then God will work in us and gradually the changes will come.
Gotta stop being self-centered and self-seeking and start thinking maturely, focusing on others p.182
The truth will set you free, but first it may make you miserable!
I find myself to be a selfish person. Though I help others, I am consumed by the desire
to be happy and know what I should do. It is easier when one is feeling wonderful to
help others, but its difficult to focus on others when you yourself are not dealt with.
Rejoice in the Lord always. Be anxious for nothing. Think on GOOD things.
This day was really helpful for me. It gives some understanding and a reminder of why
God does not always comfort us and remove our troubles.
As hard as it is (or feels if it isn't really that hard), we have to learn to refocus on Christ
and search for the lesson God wants to teach. Very hard for me to trust when I don't see...
I thought LOGIC was a strength ...
pg. 199 You know you are maturing when you begin to see the hand of God in the random,
baffling, and seemingly pointless circumstances of life.
The comparison to a cake and silversmith were both ideas I had read very recently. The CAKE story on Aimee Sayre's myspace blog and the silversmith was in an FBCgalt email. WOW
Whoo, Today's chapter is Growing Through Temptation.
pg.201 Every temptation is an opportunity to do good.
I am encouraged to consider how although I am tempted to give up, be anxious,
be upset, selfish and all those other negative qualities, God has given me the
strength to overcome. I am not a slave to those. I am showing endurance every
morning I get out of bed and as I daily make the effort to do the daily PDL readings
and journal. Though it may not be a big deal and is certainly not my ideal performance,
God is allowing me to see fruit from my obedience.
I have been considering that not one day do I do what I want,
feel how I think I should and be happy all day. That is a very negative attitude.
Once again, every prayer and response to God is a victory and I should celebrate
God's presence and be glad that despite how I feel at times, God is working in me
and He only does GOOD work.
love,
Joe
pg 210 Refocus your attention on something else.
Don't focus on problems or fears or feelings. IF you are worrying and there is not something you
need to do at that time, just focus on something else. Hard to do, but we know it will help.
Instead of wondering why ... and worrying what if ... just look at good things and speak to
yourself and God about all the good things around you. Focusing on GOOD is not denial,
it is choosing the TRUE REALITY and discovering the blessings God has given us. --Joe
There were about 47 people in service today and about 16 in Children's Church.
I wore a very fine African shirt that I was given. It is beautiful, blue and purple.
We attempted to take a picture,
but the memory stick was still with the
computer instead of in my camera.
Today's Sunday School lesson was on 1 Peter 5:9-14.
God will allow suffering. We are not alone. God wants to perfect you.
Two hymns we sang today were Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus, and Standing on the Promises.
Intermittently through the service or announcements, the speaker may say Hallelujah?!
In Jesus' Name ... or the pastor may say Hello-o? All of these calls are will trigger the
congregation to respond, "Amen" ...
Several times throughout the service the phrase will begin,
God is Good (All the Time). All the Time, (God is Good to me/us).
Today's sermon was on Heaven:
John 14 Heaven is beyond our imagination. Heaven is a place of the saints.
Matthew 6:20 You have to lay up treasures.
Luke 10:20 Your names are written in heaven.
Heaven is such a wonderful place, and God has built many mansions for us there,
but you do not want your eternal home to be bare
so you need to do God's work while on earth.
As well, God is a good book-keeper.
Your name is either in the Book of Life or on the list for Hell.
pg 219 But real maturity is never the result of a single experience,
no matter how powerful or moving. Growth is gradual.
We are slow learners. We oftern have to relearn a lesson forty or fifty times to really get it.
O.K. So I can learn how and why God matures people through troubles and long periods,
but I still don't always like it!
Since we don't know ourselves, we think we have learned lessons and do not expect all the trials. When God gives us a short vacation, we think we have finished all of the courses. --Joe
Real service is helping others especially when you don't feel like it.
It is never forgetting that people are important. Oh, it can be so hard to share sometimes.
What is it that you find difficult to share? Your money? Your preferences? Your time? --Joe
I have to trust that God will continue to work everything together for His good.
He will not waste any of my time. If I stick to his path, I am heading in the right direction
at the proper pace. The Bible gives good assurance to keep going because even though I
don't see the whole path-- God definitely does. One could think anything that feels good is right. One could believe that God always wants them to feel good. Generally, we will be most satisfied when we are obeying God in all aspects and this will result in feeling good. But sometimes we have to trust and obey even if we don't feel good as an immediate result. Chasing feelings is not the answer, but a life lived according to God's plan for you will yield contentment and the most happiness.
I find that I am a pretty good helper and like to be a part of a team. So far, I have found a lot of encouragement to serve in Liberia and I have been using some very basic skills to me. I have read emails, typed correspondences, and taken some pictures. Doesn't seem too difficult to me, but others have stressed the value.
Sometimes when we are not in control or are uncertain about future plans, God will use us more effectively than if we did what seemed best in our own minds.
I have begun to make some preparations because I expect that people will want to get something from me before I go. One of the difficulties in this area is getting the right denominations of currency as the money changers are not really in the business of making change from larger bills and I do not have access to a bank for this purpose. The small bills I brought were used about a month ago. Dear Lord, I pray that you will provide the desire and ability to those who would seek a god gift from you. Protect me from stinginess and also from giving the wrong thing to the wrong person. I want to give out of love and joy, not guilt or compulsion.
Day 75 pg. 276 Be content with your weaknesses.
pg. 276. Honestly share your weaknesses
pg. 277 Glory in your weaknesses.
What a difficult day's reading this was. It is hard for me to accept my weaknesses. Yes, I have them and they were there in the past, but now some just appear to be a majority of my focus. It is difficult at this time in my life for me to see very many of my strengths. In the midst of some of my most trying times, the website has been used to share my weaknesses. My main hope is that this will build, mold me and help me to become more of the man God wants me to be and it will show what God does. I didn't do anything good.
God, thank you for your concern for all people on earth and for your desire to use us to help them come to know you. Lord, help me remember what a privilege it is to be USED by you in Liberia. Jesus, thank you for the rewards that will be gained in the future as a result of Pastor Wesley's work in your field. May you please keep reminding us and use the signposts to bring people to church where they can hear about you. God, thank you for the truth that this entire life has been profitable if one person comes to know you as a result of our activities. Thank you for allowing me to invest my time in a meaningful action, assisting Pastor Wesley in Liberia and helping poor children at the home.
God give me the courage and wisdom to daily put aside whatever plan I have that does not meet your best for me.
