WHAT IF SOMEONE asked you what your favorite ice cream was! What would your answer be? Some know right off the bat but for me my favorite can change everyday. On the food network there is a show called Unwrapped! The other night it was all about ice cream and when this show was filmed the consensus was that Strawberry was third, chocolate second and you guessed it; vanilla was number l! I have to admit that at one time my favorite was vanilla. Then it was strawberry and for a good period of time, chocolate. But my all time favorite is ‘Tin Roof Sunday!’ Oh my! I ordered a hot fudge Sunday and the restaurant was out of Vanilla and all they had was ‘Tin Roof Sunday!’ My ice cream life changed forever! When someone mentions ‘Tin Roof Sunday’, I not only want it, but I need it!
HAVE YOU EVER been asked what you believe in regard to your faith, or as some want to call it, your religion? Did you have an answer? Did you hum haw around trying to find the exact words that describes what you believe or perhaps what you think you believe? Have you found that many times your feelings seem to overpower your response and instead of an answer you give the name of the church you attend, hoping that would explain what you believe.
I HAVE discovered that people seem to go from church to church looking for what they can believe in. I find it ironic that they don’t seem to search the scriptures but look for a church that makes them feel okay. For some it says I can keep doing some of the things I do, they must not be so bad, because some of these people are doing the same things; it must be okay!
I HAVE ADOPTED the motto that came up some years ago through-out the Christian community that says; “What would Jesus do?” I love that! It takes the guess work out of my decisions, and I can not only feel good about it, but I also know that it would be in God’s will.
WHEN Jesus asked His disciples “Who do men say that the Son of man is”; they gave Him answers that they had heard from others. After a time, Jesus then asked; “But who do you say that I am?” Peter responded with; “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!” Matthew 16:16 Did you know that is the confession we must make before men when we decide to accept Jesus as our Savior?
THE CHURCH I attend believes that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; that He died for our sins; and He rose from the dead on the third day. They also believe that He is coming again, perhaps soon! I choose to belong to a church that uses God’s Word as the foundation for not only what they believe, but in what they do. That makes me feel that I am doing what Jesus would do! This is the kind of church He asked His Disciples to start.
HERE ARE some more things we believe in. We believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and that it is an adequate guide in faith and doctrine. We believe it is our task to take the gospel to every person in the world as Jesus commanded; “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the end of the world.” Matthew 28:19-20 In the Christian community this is called “The Great Commission!”
WE CONDUCT Biblical worship services, including weekly communion. We do not practice speaking in tongues. We have no denominational affiliation of any kind and we do not believe we are the only Christians but Christian only. It is our goal to be a church patterned after those early churches. Christ prayed; “that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you. That they also may be in us, so the world may believe that you have sent me!” We want to lead people to Christ so that they will have the joy and peace that only He can give! His followers were first called Christian and that is what our church is called. Come learn of Him!
By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/24/13
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Saturday, July 20, 2013
WELL, WHAT DO YOU KNOW! 7/21/13
I BEGIN this Morning Glory with a salutation of surprise instead of a statement of fact or a question. When I learn something that I probably knew or should have known, I am a little surprised, aren’t you? Recently, in a lesson I gave, I referenced the scripture; “We know, that all things work together for good, to those who love the Lord and are called accordingly to His purpose!” Romans 8:28 Interestingly enough, all but two translations say “we know!” The two, refer to our being sure! My question was; “Why does Paul say; we know?”
THE FACT that “we know”, is the Christians’ certainty. We have confidence and we are sure..... Paul is saying that there is no doubt that through Jesus Christ and because He is the head of the church, all things will come together within God’s will. You know, that God can take bad things and make something good out of it? If you know the Lord, then you know, and therefore you should not be afraid to be all that you can be in Jesus Christ. Think about it!
SO WHAT DO WE KNOW? In 1 John, alone, he says “we know” 18 times. If we have read 1 John “we know” what “we know” is all about. Do you know Jesus Christ? You do if you are obedient to His commands! We are made complete in God when we obey His Word and we just know this! We know there is no fear in love, because perfect love casts out fear! We know this through our own experience, because we know that God is love!
LET ME SEE, or should I say, “let me count the ways!” We know that Jesus Christ came with the water and the blood. The water refers to His baptism and the blood, His death! We know this because His Word is true and we believe His Word! Some have said we want to see signs and symbols. Well, baptism and the Lord’s Supper are signs and symbols. Those who believe that Jesus is the Christ the Son of the Living God, have responded to these signs and symbols. We know we are saved because we have responded to God’s invitation to become one of His children.
FAITH in action brings victory to the Christian. We can only achieve the certainty of who we are in Christ, through the certainties of our faith. Why are we so afraid to let the world know who we are? We even have trouble showing our brothers and sisters in Christ who we really are in the Son. John writes his letter to those who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that they will know that they have eternal life. We know, that what we know, is what we know!
“WE KNOW that any one born of God does not sin, but He who was born of God, keeps him, and the evil one does not touch him.” 1 John 5:18 What John is saying is that any one born of God does not keep on sinning. Do you get it? Do you understand? Are you in control? You know, that you have the fruit within you, for you have the Holy Spirit within you!
“WE KNOW that we are of God, and the whole world is in the power of the evil one.” 1 John 5:19 Even though we know we can choose to be obedient and not sin, sometimes, because we are so wishy washy in our walk, we sin. Thanks be to God, that He has given us forgiveness upon baptism, so that we can be made new and become acceptable again, and again, and again!
“AND WE KNOW that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding to know Him, who is true, and we are in Him, who is true; His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life! 1 John 5:20 Paul has been quoted many times from 2 Timothy 1:12, and I learned it by heart by singing it from an old hymn book; “I know not why God’s wondrous grace to me He hath made known, nor why unworthy, Christ in love, redeemed me for His own. But I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I’ve committed unto Him against that day.”
I AM STILL learning to be firmly grounded in Jesus Christ. Every day is an adventure and I write these things to instill them in my heart and my mind, and I can’t help but share them with you. I thank the Lord everyday for giving me a way to share my faith and a way to let others know, who they can become in Jesus Christ; a sinner saved by grace! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/17/13
THE FACT that “we know”, is the Christians’ certainty. We have confidence and we are sure..... Paul is saying that there is no doubt that through Jesus Christ and because He is the head of the church, all things will come together within God’s will. You know, that God can take bad things and make something good out of it? If you know the Lord, then you know, and therefore you should not be afraid to be all that you can be in Jesus Christ. Think about it!
SO WHAT DO WE KNOW? In 1 John, alone, he says “we know” 18 times. If we have read 1 John “we know” what “we know” is all about. Do you know Jesus Christ? You do if you are obedient to His commands! We are made complete in God when we obey His Word and we just know this! We know there is no fear in love, because perfect love casts out fear! We know this through our own experience, because we know that God is love!
LET ME SEE, or should I say, “let me count the ways!” We know that Jesus Christ came with the water and the blood. The water refers to His baptism and the blood, His death! We know this because His Word is true and we believe His Word! Some have said we want to see signs and symbols. Well, baptism and the Lord’s Supper are signs and symbols. Those who believe that Jesus is the Christ the Son of the Living God, have responded to these signs and symbols. We know we are saved because we have responded to God’s invitation to become one of His children.
FAITH in action brings victory to the Christian. We can only achieve the certainty of who we are in Christ, through the certainties of our faith. Why are we so afraid to let the world know who we are? We even have trouble showing our brothers and sisters in Christ who we really are in the Son. John writes his letter to those who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that they will know that they have eternal life. We know, that what we know, is what we know!
“WE KNOW that any one born of God does not sin, but He who was born of God, keeps him, and the evil one does not touch him.” 1 John 5:18 What John is saying is that any one born of God does not keep on sinning. Do you get it? Do you understand? Are you in control? You know, that you have the fruit within you, for you have the Holy Spirit within you!
“WE KNOW that we are of God, and the whole world is in the power of the evil one.” 1 John 5:19 Even though we know we can choose to be obedient and not sin, sometimes, because we are so wishy washy in our walk, we sin. Thanks be to God, that He has given us forgiveness upon baptism, so that we can be made new and become acceptable again, and again, and again!
“AND WE KNOW that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding to know Him, who is true, and we are in Him, who is true; His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life! 1 John 5:20 Paul has been quoted many times from 2 Timothy 1:12, and I learned it by heart by singing it from an old hymn book; “I know not why God’s wondrous grace to me He hath made known, nor why unworthy, Christ in love, redeemed me for His own. But I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I’ve committed unto Him against that day.”
I AM STILL learning to be firmly grounded in Jesus Christ. Every day is an adventure and I write these things to instill them in my heart and my mind, and I can’t help but share them with you. I thank the Lord everyday for giving me a way to share my faith and a way to let others know, who they can become in Jesus Christ; a sinner saved by grace! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/17/13
Saturday, July 13, 2013
WORDS, WORDS, WORDS! 7/14/13
I HAVE HEARD it said that words are what we live by. In “My Fair Lady,” Liza sings a song called “Show Me!” “Words, words, words; I’m so sick of words! I get words all day through, first from him, now from you; Is that all you blighters can do?” The whole song is berating the Professor about his methods of teaching her how to speak properly, but what she wants is for him to show her, I guess that was because she didn’t want to work so hard!
I HAVE ALWAYS been aware that I had a learning disability of sorts, but it was never recognized by my teachers and therefore never diagnosed until my 70's, I met a lady, named Grace, who knew immediately what it was and gave me it’s name. Of course I don’t remember what it is now but I asked her to show me how to do something instead of telling me what to do. I never could follow written instructions, nor figure out a thought problem. Written tests were beyond me and therefore to succeed, my life was a struggle. I managed for the most part, but at my age, I have learned to ask for help, I know how to say; I can’t follow that, just show me how to do it and I can do it. Trying to tell me how to do something, is like a foreigner giving me instructions in their language. I just don’t have a clue!
I HAVE HEARD some say; “I can’t be a Christian because I just don’t know how to live like one!” I have heard some say; “I just don’t understand exactly what Jesus is saying, I don’t understand enough of the Word to follow it, let alone to do it!” I have always felt, “if I can do this; if I believe this; if I, who can’t easily understand anything, why can’t others? Even though it has been difficult for me to learn, I have learned to understand by reasoning. Logic comes by reasoning and it has gotten me by. I guess that is why I have always liked a good discussion, although some would call it arguing! Either way, I like the exchange.
INTERESTINGLY enough, God had Moses write down the law so that the Israelites could learn how to be His people. They were to remember it in their minds and to do it with their hands. It was hard for them to do, because it was hard to keep the Law! But when Jesus came to teach us God’s ways, it was by becoming a man. His coming in the flesh spoke much louder than words. Even though we read about His life as a fleshly man, what we read is how He lived in the flesh, and yet remained in His person, as God! We have a picture of His character, His attitudes and the way He showed love to others. God became flesh so that He could show Himself to us; to show us His ways!
JESUS is not only the “way, the truth and the life”, but He also is THE WORD! “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God! He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the Life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:1-5 Use your imagination and watch the darkness fade as the light enters in. Amazing! I can understand this passage because Jesus showed me!
I UNDERSTAND what it means for Jesus to be the Word. In the Greek, the meaning ‘reason or word’ is a designation for Christ Himself. He is the reason for our being! He is the reason for all of the scriptures, because the old and the new Testaments point to Him! Words are important! Jesus is the Word and He is important! What we know about Jesus is important! The words we speak are important because we can either point the way to Christ by them, or we can lead others astray by them.
“LET THE WORDS of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalms 19:14 I just keep right on talking as though my life depended upon it. Thankfully, I can praise His name and teach about His ways and when you think about it, my life does depend upon that! Keeps me keeping on! Words, Words, Words; Jesus came to show us what His Words mean; have we learned anything yet? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/12/13
I HAVE ALWAYS been aware that I had a learning disability of sorts, but it was never recognized by my teachers and therefore never diagnosed until my 70's, I met a lady, named Grace, who knew immediately what it was and gave me it’s name. Of course I don’t remember what it is now but I asked her to show me how to do something instead of telling me what to do. I never could follow written instructions, nor figure out a thought problem. Written tests were beyond me and therefore to succeed, my life was a struggle. I managed for the most part, but at my age, I have learned to ask for help, I know how to say; I can’t follow that, just show me how to do it and I can do it. Trying to tell me how to do something, is like a foreigner giving me instructions in their language. I just don’t have a clue!
I HAVE HEARD some say; “I can’t be a Christian because I just don’t know how to live like one!” I have heard some say; “I just don’t understand exactly what Jesus is saying, I don’t understand enough of the Word to follow it, let alone to do it!” I have always felt, “if I can do this; if I believe this; if I, who can’t easily understand anything, why can’t others? Even though it has been difficult for me to learn, I have learned to understand by reasoning. Logic comes by reasoning and it has gotten me by. I guess that is why I have always liked a good discussion, although some would call it arguing! Either way, I like the exchange.
INTERESTINGLY enough, God had Moses write down the law so that the Israelites could learn how to be His people. They were to remember it in their minds and to do it with their hands. It was hard for them to do, because it was hard to keep the Law! But when Jesus came to teach us God’s ways, it was by becoming a man. His coming in the flesh spoke much louder than words. Even though we read about His life as a fleshly man, what we read is how He lived in the flesh, and yet remained in His person, as God! We have a picture of His character, His attitudes and the way He showed love to others. God became flesh so that He could show Himself to us; to show us His ways!
JESUS is not only the “way, the truth and the life”, but He also is THE WORD! “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God! He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the Life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:1-5 Use your imagination and watch the darkness fade as the light enters in. Amazing! I can understand this passage because Jesus showed me!
I UNDERSTAND what it means for Jesus to be the Word. In the Greek, the meaning ‘reason or word’ is a designation for Christ Himself. He is the reason for our being! He is the reason for all of the scriptures, because the old and the new Testaments point to Him! Words are important! Jesus is the Word and He is important! What we know about Jesus is important! The words we speak are important because we can either point the way to Christ by them, or we can lead others astray by them.
“LET THE WORDS of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalms 19:14 I just keep right on talking as though my life depended upon it. Thankfully, I can praise His name and teach about His ways and when you think about it, my life does depend upon that! Keeps me keeping on! Words, Words, Words; Jesus came to show us what His Words mean; have we learned anything yet? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/12/13
Saturday, July 6, 2013
BIRTH OF A NATION! 7/7/13
BEGINNINGS seem to have always been a time of remembrance and celebrations. America celebrates July 4, as a day that America became independent from England and began the baby steps of becoming a great nation under God! Our forefathers gave us a legacy for a firm foundation and for the most part succeeded. They lost everything by man’s standards, and in the process, our nation gained freedom to pursue a life of happiness and equality; which has always held a price tag.
GOD has always had a people and for most American’s, we became His people in 1620. While America remained His people, we flourished, but when God, our common denominator was forgotten by the masses, His guidance and protection was lifted. If you don’t believe me look at the records, they speak for themselves and should speak to us! Reminds me of the Israelites and their trek across the desert. They too were given a legacy with a firm foundation through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!
REMEMBER the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night? Seems to me that should have been enough to keep their attention but little irritations got to them, and they complained and when God provided they wanted more and they wanted it their way. Remember when Moses was on the mountain with God and how restless the people became? So much so, that they decided upon a different God, one made with their hands; one that gave them license to sin and this people who were called by God, were able to convince even their leaders, to help them. Sounds so familiar; don’t you agree?
I LOVE CELEBRATING the 4th; don’t you? I love a parade, BBQ’s, picnics in the park and fire works! What is there not to love? I love America; and the how our Declaration of Independence reads! I love reading about the providence of God and the history of this great country. But what I don’t love is how through the years, some have made it a shamble of shame! The nation that was ordained in the declaration are still in the process of fading. Our equality is still in question! To pursue happiness is being done in all the wrong places.
FORGETTING GOD’S GUIDANCE has led to homosexuality; abortions; a society of faceless characters and even those who lack integrity. God has said; “All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people.” Romans 10:21 Isaiah said that long before Jesus came, and Paul says it again, when he was talking to the Romans. Isaiah and Paul are both bold when they continue to repeat God’s Words; “I have been found by those who did not seek me; I have shown myself to those who did not ask for me.” Romans 10:20 And yet He waits for the strays to return!
OUR HEAVENLY Father is still holding out His hands to Israel and to all the people who have rejected Him. In the meanwhile, He pays close attention to those who call upon His name. I am sure that as my heart aches for those I love, His heart aches for those He sent His Son to redeem; to sacrifice His body and to shed His blood; only to be rejected again and again by His own people!
UPON our confession and obedience, we become witnesses of Jesus Christ. We can only achieve what God wants from us, by doing the work He has given us to do. In order for us to do that we must be obedient to His Word. “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God!” Romans 8:16 When we become wishy washy in our walk, we walk not in the Spirit. God did not give us a spirit of timidity! We are to be true and faithful; just and righteous! “It is the Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God!” Romans 8:16
WE QUESTION whether or not our obedience is relevant; and it is! We wonder if God keeps score on a daily basis regarding our obedience. But the answer is clear; “Although He was a Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered; and being made perfect He became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him!” Hebrews 5:8-9 While Jesus was in the flesh he learned obedience through His own cries and tears! What about you? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/5/13
GOD has always had a people and for most American’s, we became His people in 1620. While America remained His people, we flourished, but when God, our common denominator was forgotten by the masses, His guidance and protection was lifted. If you don’t believe me look at the records, they speak for themselves and should speak to us! Reminds me of the Israelites and their trek across the desert. They too were given a legacy with a firm foundation through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!
REMEMBER the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night? Seems to me that should have been enough to keep their attention but little irritations got to them, and they complained and when God provided they wanted more and they wanted it their way. Remember when Moses was on the mountain with God and how restless the people became? So much so, that they decided upon a different God, one made with their hands; one that gave them license to sin and this people who were called by God, were able to convince even their leaders, to help them. Sounds so familiar; don’t you agree?
I LOVE CELEBRATING the 4th; don’t you? I love a parade, BBQ’s, picnics in the park and fire works! What is there not to love? I love America; and the how our Declaration of Independence reads! I love reading about the providence of God and the history of this great country. But what I don’t love is how through the years, some have made it a shamble of shame! The nation that was ordained in the declaration are still in the process of fading. Our equality is still in question! To pursue happiness is being done in all the wrong places.
FORGETTING GOD’S GUIDANCE has led to homosexuality; abortions; a society of faceless characters and even those who lack integrity. God has said; “All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people.” Romans 10:21 Isaiah said that long before Jesus came, and Paul says it again, when he was talking to the Romans. Isaiah and Paul are both bold when they continue to repeat God’s Words; “I have been found by those who did not seek me; I have shown myself to those who did not ask for me.” Romans 10:20 And yet He waits for the strays to return!
OUR HEAVENLY Father is still holding out His hands to Israel and to all the people who have rejected Him. In the meanwhile, He pays close attention to those who call upon His name. I am sure that as my heart aches for those I love, His heart aches for those He sent His Son to redeem; to sacrifice His body and to shed His blood; only to be rejected again and again by His own people!
UPON our confession and obedience, we become witnesses of Jesus Christ. We can only achieve what God wants from us, by doing the work He has given us to do. In order for us to do that we must be obedient to His Word. “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God!” Romans 8:16 When we become wishy washy in our walk, we walk not in the Spirit. God did not give us a spirit of timidity! We are to be true and faithful; just and righteous! “It is the Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God!” Romans 8:16
WE QUESTION whether or not our obedience is relevant; and it is! We wonder if God keeps score on a daily basis regarding our obedience. But the answer is clear; “Although He was a Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered; and being made perfect He became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him!” Hebrews 5:8-9 While Jesus was in the flesh he learned obedience through His own cries and tears! What about you? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/5/13
Saturday, June 29, 2013
OVER THE BACK FENCE! 6/30/13
I HAVE HEARD the expression ‘chew the fat’ all my life but never understood how it came about. I knew what it meant but why do we say that? In reading some fascinating tidbits I discovered that many thoughts have been recorded but no evidence is available to support the claims. For instance chew the fat has been attributed to sailors, who would chew on salt-hardened fat. Some say it came from the practice of North American Indians who would chew animal hides during their spare time. I’ve read that British farmers chewed on smoked pork but again no proof. I’ve eaten pork rinds but you can’t chew them for long before you swallow them!
WHEN our son Danny was still in a highchair, Jim gave him a piece of steak for him to chew on. He loved it! He held it in his hand and chewed and sucked until the dark piece of meat was totally white. Even while the juice was running down his chin and his arms, he refused to give it up!
TO CHEW the rag is another term closely related to chewing the fat. They say some natives, in the days of the early explorers of North America, liked to chew dried leaves, although they were smoking them in pipes also. Sailors sampled tobacco and liked it! UGH! Smoking on the wooden ships was restricted so they chewed. When tobacco was hard to come by, they chewed whatever they could find. ‘Pork fat; soft leather and rags!
TODAY the metaphor of chewing the fat or chewing the rag is implying a kind of general grumbling fest; to alleviate boredom; gossiping sessions, and a way to define telling tall tales like the proverbial fish story where the fish get bigger as the story is told and retold. So chewing the fat all comes down to idle conversation, friendly small talk, complaining, spreading gossip, humorous banter and even just wanting to hear yourself talk.
DID YOU KNOW that God’s Word addresses “chewing the fat or chewing the rag”? Perhaps not in those terms but there is no denying that God knew there would be days, in our lives , that we would find our hands idle and our mouths gushing with evil! I guess that is why the song writer of a children’s song says; “Oh be careful little mouth what you say!”
PROVERBS is full of good advice when it comes to the mouth. “Put away from your crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you.” Proverbs 4:24 I like to chit chat but I don’t like my chatting to focus on others and their misfortunes or misdeeds. Doesn’t set well with me! Makes me upset and also it is worrisome. “Wise men lay up knowledge, but the babbling of a fool brings ruin near.” Proverbs 10:14 I have never considered myself wise and I do babble, but I certainly do not want to be the cause of someone’s ruin; do you?
OVER THE BACK FENCE is another expression that usually brings about thoughts of the old days of sitting on the porch, in a rocking chair listening to the crickets and visiting over the back fence. Many old cliche’s, that are worn-out or just common phrases, were born ‘over the back fence’! I’ve heard about Christians evangelizing over the back fence! What a good idea! “The mind of the wise makes his speech judicious, and adds persuasiveness to his lips! Proverb 16:23
IN THE early days of my marriage we had a wall in the back yard. I couldn’t see over it but my neighbor, Anita was tall and I could look up and see her face. We would visit over that wall! But then we would visit all the time. Having been a Lutheran, she became a Catholic after she married. We talked of many things and God was one of those subjects. During a vacation Bible School at my church, she came with her son and she helped in the nursery.
HER SON was in the VBS program and Nick, her husband, came along with Anita to see it all. God was our bond! A few years ago I was able to get in touch with Nick! After 40 some years we got a little caught up, and I would send him my Morning Glory blog. Nick passed away this month and my heart ached! But the glory is in the Father and He walks with me! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 6/29/13
WHEN our son Danny was still in a highchair, Jim gave him a piece of steak for him to chew on. He loved it! He held it in his hand and chewed and sucked until the dark piece of meat was totally white. Even while the juice was running down his chin and his arms, he refused to give it up!
TO CHEW the rag is another term closely related to chewing the fat. They say some natives, in the days of the early explorers of North America, liked to chew dried leaves, although they were smoking them in pipes also. Sailors sampled tobacco and liked it! UGH! Smoking on the wooden ships was restricted so they chewed. When tobacco was hard to come by, they chewed whatever they could find. ‘Pork fat; soft leather and rags!
TODAY the metaphor of chewing the fat or chewing the rag is implying a kind of general grumbling fest; to alleviate boredom; gossiping sessions, and a way to define telling tall tales like the proverbial fish story where the fish get bigger as the story is told and retold. So chewing the fat all comes down to idle conversation, friendly small talk, complaining, spreading gossip, humorous banter and even just wanting to hear yourself talk.
DID YOU KNOW that God’s Word addresses “chewing the fat or chewing the rag”? Perhaps not in those terms but there is no denying that God knew there would be days, in our lives , that we would find our hands idle and our mouths gushing with evil! I guess that is why the song writer of a children’s song says; “Oh be careful little mouth what you say!”
PROVERBS is full of good advice when it comes to the mouth. “Put away from your crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you.” Proverbs 4:24 I like to chit chat but I don’t like my chatting to focus on others and their misfortunes or misdeeds. Doesn’t set well with me! Makes me upset and also it is worrisome. “Wise men lay up knowledge, but the babbling of a fool brings ruin near.” Proverbs 10:14 I have never considered myself wise and I do babble, but I certainly do not want to be the cause of someone’s ruin; do you?
OVER THE BACK FENCE is another expression that usually brings about thoughts of the old days of sitting on the porch, in a rocking chair listening to the crickets and visiting over the back fence. Many old cliche’s, that are worn-out or just common phrases, were born ‘over the back fence’! I’ve heard about Christians evangelizing over the back fence! What a good idea! “The mind of the wise makes his speech judicious, and adds persuasiveness to his lips! Proverb 16:23
IN THE early days of my marriage we had a wall in the back yard. I couldn’t see over it but my neighbor, Anita was tall and I could look up and see her face. We would visit over that wall! But then we would visit all the time. Having been a Lutheran, she became a Catholic after she married. We talked of many things and God was one of those subjects. During a vacation Bible School at my church, she came with her son and she helped in the nursery.
HER SON was in the VBS program and Nick, her husband, came along with Anita to see it all. God was our bond! A few years ago I was able to get in touch with Nick! After 40 some years we got a little caught up, and I would send him my Morning Glory blog. Nick passed away this month and my heart ached! But the glory is in the Father and He walks with me! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 6/29/13
Saturday, June 22, 2013
THINKING OUT LOUD! 6/23/13
JIM AND I went to a dance yesterday! Lot’s of twirling, and shuffling with a two step off and on, followed by a bow here and a curtsy there. Everyone was moving to the rhythm of the music, keeping pace and having a good time. We would stop long enough to chat, because a little visiting never hurts.
THERE WAS work on the grounds, there was work on the buildings, there was lots of cleaning going on. Tables were scrubbed, removing lots of glue; while the lawns were mowed and the weeds were pulled. Flower beds were cleaned up, and a few trees were pruned and all the while there was laughter and lots of smiles exchanged between the brothers and the sisters.
THE PAINTERS began preparation as primer was put on door frames and texture was applied to some walls, even a coat of paint was put on an area outside the building and the Lord smiled down on all the dancers and was pleased!
BEFORE TODAY, there was another kind of dance going on. It took place in the class rooms as teachers taught their lessons; Bills were being paid; the news letter was prepared; prayers were being said; the scriptures were read; the Church secretary was in her place; communion was prepared and served; there was the teaching of the Gospel and fellowship was shared. People were being called upon; there were mid-week bible studies; the sick were visited and lots of encouragement was in the mix. The musicians were tuned up as the worship team led the worship service; the nursery and the children’s church was in full swing.
ANY ACTIVITY that does not support the Gospel produces discord. Failure to do the work regularly confuses the rhythm of the song. How do you respond when a singer sings a bad note? If it’s bad enough it can make you cringe! “Jesus is the cornerstone!” The church dance should never make anyone cringe.
PICTURE yourself as part of the “the dance”. Where are you in the dance? Taking the Lead? Holding back in fear? In rhythm with others? Stumbling, feeling you have two “left feet?” Are others out of sync with you? Are you a “wall flower,” watching but never participating? Reflect on what fears and sins and faulty steps keep you from joining joyfully in the graceful dance of the people of God. Confess those fears and sins and missteps to God. Giving thanks that God in Christ Jesus covers over those sins through the cross and calls you again to the dance!
THERE IS love in this place! Do you hear it? It’s the church dancing to the rhythm of God’s leading. The Gospel is the melody and any activity that supports it is the harmony. Faithfulness to do the work promptly is the rhythm and when everything is done in harmony and regularly, the dance is beautiful. “Finally all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love of the brethren, a tender heart and a humbled mind!” 1 Peter 3:8 Don’t try dancing alone! If you lead, then lead, but if you are to follow, then follow. Do all in one spirit, and to the glory of God!
OUR TALENTS are gifts from God! We use our talents as gifts from us to others. As we follow the rhythm and music of the Spirit, our talents join in the graceful dance of the people of God. We are partners in a dance, where God is the only important spectator. “Then let us no more pass judgment on one another, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.” Romans 14:3 Don’t step on the toes of others. Be the kind of partner that God desires!
WHEN WE LOOK at the perfect unison of water ballet it takes our breath away. When God looks down at His people and watches them in perfect unison doing the work that He has assigned the church; I imagine it takes His breath away! What we accomplish together, far out weighs anything we can do alone! Yes, Jim and I went to a dance and I know God was pleased! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 6/22/13
THERE WAS work on the grounds, there was work on the buildings, there was lots of cleaning going on. Tables were scrubbed, removing lots of glue; while the lawns were mowed and the weeds were pulled. Flower beds were cleaned up, and a few trees were pruned and all the while there was laughter and lots of smiles exchanged between the brothers and the sisters.
THE PAINTERS began preparation as primer was put on door frames and texture was applied to some walls, even a coat of paint was put on an area outside the building and the Lord smiled down on all the dancers and was pleased!
BEFORE TODAY, there was another kind of dance going on. It took place in the class rooms as teachers taught their lessons; Bills were being paid; the news letter was prepared; prayers were being said; the scriptures were read; the Church secretary was in her place; communion was prepared and served; there was the teaching of the Gospel and fellowship was shared. People were being called upon; there were mid-week bible studies; the sick were visited and lots of encouragement was in the mix. The musicians were tuned up as the worship team led the worship service; the nursery and the children’s church was in full swing.
ANY ACTIVITY that does not support the Gospel produces discord. Failure to do the work regularly confuses the rhythm of the song. How do you respond when a singer sings a bad note? If it’s bad enough it can make you cringe! “Jesus is the cornerstone!” The church dance should never make anyone cringe.
PICTURE yourself as part of the “the dance”. Where are you in the dance? Taking the Lead? Holding back in fear? In rhythm with others? Stumbling, feeling you have two “left feet?” Are others out of sync with you? Are you a “wall flower,” watching but never participating? Reflect on what fears and sins and faulty steps keep you from joining joyfully in the graceful dance of the people of God. Confess those fears and sins and missteps to God. Giving thanks that God in Christ Jesus covers over those sins through the cross and calls you again to the dance!
THERE IS love in this place! Do you hear it? It’s the church dancing to the rhythm of God’s leading. The Gospel is the melody and any activity that supports it is the harmony. Faithfulness to do the work promptly is the rhythm and when everything is done in harmony and regularly, the dance is beautiful. “Finally all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love of the brethren, a tender heart and a humbled mind!” 1 Peter 3:8 Don’t try dancing alone! If you lead, then lead, but if you are to follow, then follow. Do all in one spirit, and to the glory of God!
OUR TALENTS are gifts from God! We use our talents as gifts from us to others. As we follow the rhythm and music of the Spirit, our talents join in the graceful dance of the people of God. We are partners in a dance, where God is the only important spectator. “Then let us no more pass judgment on one another, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.” Romans 14:3 Don’t step on the toes of others. Be the kind of partner that God desires!
WHEN WE LOOK at the perfect unison of water ballet it takes our breath away. When God looks down at His people and watches them in perfect unison doing the work that He has assigned the church; I imagine it takes His breath away! What we accomplish together, far out weighs anything we can do alone! Yes, Jim and I went to a dance and I know God was pleased! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 6/22/13
Saturday, June 15, 2013
RULES FOR DADS! 6/16/13
TODAY is father’s day. A day to remember our fathers, which Jim and I do often. I love thinking about Jim as a young father, trying to become all that he could be to his children. But fathers are restricted because of their place in life as the provider. It keeps them away from home and even sometimes during the more, critical developing years. But when I watch my son, as a father to his three strapping boys, I can see that Jim’s rules have paid off.
WHEN JIM AND I became parents we knew it was the most natural thing to happen to us after we married. When the natural became a reality what were the rules? Jim knew that he now had responsibility to care not only for a wife, who was now a mother, but a baby of which he knew nothing about. What he did feel, was an overwhelming sense of pride, fear and excitement.
I REMEMBER asking Jim during the days of expectation if he was proud to become a father? He said; “No!” I can’t remember what else he said after that, but I was surprised. Most men would feel some pride about becoming a father for the first time. A few hours after my son was born, Jim stood at the foot of my hospital bed and said; “Remember when you asked me about being proud to be a father?” I said; “Yes!” “Well, I am very proud!” He was almost shy, and maybe a little bit embarrassed as he said that! But I understood exactly what he meant!
BECOMING a parent is the most common thing to happen to a man and woman who have promised themselves to each other. It is almost as American as baseball and apple pie! But is it? As I remember, it was the most amazing thing that happened to Jim and me. First it was Danny and then it was Jennifer; we became a family! A family comes with the good and the bad, but in retrospect, looking back, we wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. God has been good to us!
JIM has been a good father. His rules were, and still are very simple. One is, he is a man of integrity. He is honest and above reproach. The second one is, Jim has shown wisdom by learning to lean upon God, and being an example to his children. Thirdly, Jim has always tried to go the extra mile by becoming a Godly Father. In no way, is he perfect but then neither am I! However, these things are in the eyes of the beholder. The possibilities are unlimited; we are still experiencing God!
“TRAIN up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it!” Proverbs 22:6 I have to admit that raising our two children in the way they should go, wasn’t as easy as we thought it would be. I remember Jim saying once though, that God made it easy for us with Danny and Jennifer. WOW! Again, that doesn’t mean either one of them are perfect, but they are faithful to the Lord!
“FATHERS, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord!” Ephesians 6:4 The new rules of the day have got it all wrong when it comes to discipline. Sparing the rod doesn’t make much sense if you want get their attention. Sending them to their room, plus no TV for a week, doesn’t make sense either. We tried that and felt we were the ones being punished! The kids read their books and listened to their music; and were happy!!
“FATHERS, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged!” Colossians 3:21 Encouraging your children is necessary and critical to their well being! When you teach your children how to love and honor each member of the family, a sound relationship develops within the family. “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord! Colossians 3:20
OH LORD, my prayer today is for my three grandson’s; that they will also develop the same Godly characteristics of their Dad and Grandpa! To become Godly men with integrity and the wisdom to love you, their wives and their children. I pray that you will give them a future that will always include you, so that they can lead with confidence! Having children is a blessing; having children who love the Lord, is only from God! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 6/13/13
WHEN JIM AND I became parents we knew it was the most natural thing to happen to us after we married. When the natural became a reality what were the rules? Jim knew that he now had responsibility to care not only for a wife, who was now a mother, but a baby of which he knew nothing about. What he did feel, was an overwhelming sense of pride, fear and excitement.
I REMEMBER asking Jim during the days of expectation if he was proud to become a father? He said; “No!” I can’t remember what else he said after that, but I was surprised. Most men would feel some pride about becoming a father for the first time. A few hours after my son was born, Jim stood at the foot of my hospital bed and said; “Remember when you asked me about being proud to be a father?” I said; “Yes!” “Well, I am very proud!” He was almost shy, and maybe a little bit embarrassed as he said that! But I understood exactly what he meant!
BECOMING a parent is the most common thing to happen to a man and woman who have promised themselves to each other. It is almost as American as baseball and apple pie! But is it? As I remember, it was the most amazing thing that happened to Jim and me. First it was Danny and then it was Jennifer; we became a family! A family comes with the good and the bad, but in retrospect, looking back, we wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. God has been good to us!
JIM has been a good father. His rules were, and still are very simple. One is, he is a man of integrity. He is honest and above reproach. The second one is, Jim has shown wisdom by learning to lean upon God, and being an example to his children. Thirdly, Jim has always tried to go the extra mile by becoming a Godly Father. In no way, is he perfect but then neither am I! However, these things are in the eyes of the beholder. The possibilities are unlimited; we are still experiencing God!
“TRAIN up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it!” Proverbs 22:6 I have to admit that raising our two children in the way they should go, wasn’t as easy as we thought it would be. I remember Jim saying once though, that God made it easy for us with Danny and Jennifer. WOW! Again, that doesn’t mean either one of them are perfect, but they are faithful to the Lord!
“FATHERS, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord!” Ephesians 6:4 The new rules of the day have got it all wrong when it comes to discipline. Sparing the rod doesn’t make much sense if you want get their attention. Sending them to their room, plus no TV for a week, doesn’t make sense either. We tried that and felt we were the ones being punished! The kids read their books and listened to their music; and were happy!!
“FATHERS, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged!” Colossians 3:21 Encouraging your children is necessary and critical to their well being! When you teach your children how to love and honor each member of the family, a sound relationship develops within the family. “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord! Colossians 3:20
OH LORD, my prayer today is for my three grandson’s; that they will also develop the same Godly characteristics of their Dad and Grandpa! To become Godly men with integrity and the wisdom to love you, their wives and their children. I pray that you will give them a future that will always include you, so that they can lead with confidence! Having children is a blessing; having children who love the Lord, is only from God! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 6/13/13
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