Real Talk by Adam Edelstein

April 29, 2010

Real Talk by Adam Edelstein

Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask Your forgiveness and to seek Your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, "Woe to those who call evil good", but that is exactly what we have done.

We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We confess that.

We have ridiculed the absolute truth of Your Word and called it Pluralism;

We have worshiped other gods and called it multiculturalism

We have endorsed perversion and called it alternative lifestyle;

We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery;

We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare;

We have killed our unborn and called it choice;

We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable;

We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self-esteem;

We have abused power and called it politics;

We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition;

We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression;

We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.

Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free. Guide and bless these men and women who have been sent: to direct us to the center of Your will and to openly ask these things in the name of Your Son, the living Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen."

Your Day by Adam Edelstein

April 25, 2010

Your Day by Adam Edelstein

This is the beginning of a new day. God has given me this day to use as I will.

I can waste it or use it for good. What I do today is important, because I'm exchanging a day of my life for it.

When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever, leaving in its place something that I have traded for it.

I want it to be gain, not loss; good, not evil; success, not failure; I shall not regret the price I paid for it.

Just the FACTS by Adam Edelstein

April 23, 2010

Just the FACTS by Adam Edelstein

Facts...

I have been justified - completely forgiven and made righteous (Rom. 5:1).

I died with Christ and died to the power of sin's rule over my life (Rom. 6:1-6).

I am free forever from condemnation (Rom. 8:1).

I have been placed into Christ by God's doing (1 Cor. 1:30).

I have received the Spirit of God into my life that I might know the things freely given to me by God (1 Cor. 2:12).

I have been given the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16).

I have been bought with a price; I am not my own; I belong to God (1 Cor. 6:19,20)

I have been established, anointed and sealed by God in Christ, and I have been given the Holy Spirit as a pledge guaranteeing my inheritance to come (2 Cor. 1:21; Eph. 1:13,14). Since I have died, I no longer live for myself, but for Christ (2 Cor. 5:14,15).

I have been made righteous (2 Cor. 5:21).

I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer

I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I am now living is Christ's life (Gal. 2:20).

I have been blessed with every spiritual blessing (Eph.1:3).

I was chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and am without blame before Him (Eph. 1:4).

I was predestined - determined by God - to be adopted as God's son (Eph. 1:5).

I have been redeemed and forgiven, and I am a recipient of His lavish grace. I have been made alive together with Christ (Eph 2:5).

I have been raised up and seated with Christ in heaven(Eph. 2:6).

I have direct access to God through the Spirit (Eph.2:18).

I may approach God with boldness, freedom and confidence(Eph. 3:12).

I have been rescued from the domain of satan's rule and transferred to the kingdom of Christ (Col. 1:13).

I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. The debt against me has been canceled (Col. 1:14). Christ Himself is in me (Col. 1:27).

I am firmly rooted in Christ and am being built in Him (Col. 2:7).

I have been spiritually circumcised. My old regenerate nature has been removed (Col. 2:11).

I have been made complete in Christ (Col. 2:10).

I have been buried, raised and made alive with Christ (Col. 2:12,13).

I died with Christ and I have been raised up with Christ. My life is now hidden with Christ in God. Christ is now my life (Col.3:1-4).

I have been given a spirit of power, love and self discipline(2 Tim. 1:7).

I have been saved and set apart according to God's doing(2 Tim. 1:9; Titus 3:5) Because I am sanctified and am one with the Sanctifier, He is not ashamed to call me brother (Heb. 2:11).

I have the right to come boldly before the throne of God to find mercy and grace in time of need (Heb. 4:16).

I have been given exceedingly great and precious promises by God by which I am a partaker of God's divine nature (2 Pet. 1:4).

My friends...Jump in Adam Edelstein

April 21, 2010

My friends...Jump in Adam Edelstein

The truly happy are those who carefully study God’s perfect law that makes people free, and they continue to study it. They do not forget what they heard, but they obey what God’s teaching says. Those who do this will be made happy.

(James 1:25)

What a promise. Happiness comes to those who do what they read! It’s the same with medicine. If you only read the label but ignore the pills, it won’t help. It’s the same with food. If you only read the recipe but never cook, you won’t be fed. And it’s the same with the Bible. If you only read the words but never obey, you’ll never know the joy God has promised.

Will you STAND with me??? by Adam Edelstein

April 19, 2010

Will you STAND with me??? by Adam Edelstein

I am a soldier in the Army of My God. The Lord Jesus Christ is my Commanding Officer. The Holy Bible is my code of conduct.

Faith, Prayer and the Word are my weapons of Warfare. I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, trained by experience, tried by adversity, and tested by fire.

I am a volunteer in this Army, and I am enlisted for eternity. I will either retire in this Army at the rapture or die in this Army; but I will not get out, sell out, be talked out, I am faithful, capable, and dependable.

If My God needs me, I am there. If He needs me in Sunday school to teach children, work with the youth, help adults, or just sit and learn. He can use me, because I am there!

I am a soldier. I am not a baby. I do not need to be pampered, petted, primed up, pumped up, picked up, or pepped up.

I am a soldier. No one has to call me, remind me, write me, visit me, entice me, or lure me.

I am a soldier. I am not a wimp. I am in place, saluting my King, obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His kingdom!

I am a soldier. No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy, or give me handouts.

I do not need to be cuddled, cradled, cared for, or catered to. I am committed!

I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me around. I cannot be discouraged enough to turn me aside. I cannot lose enough to cause me to quit.

When Jesus called me into this Army, I had nothing. If I end up with nothing, I will still come out even.

I will win. My God will supply all my needs. I am more than a conqueror. I will always triumph. I can do all things through Christ.

I am a soldier. Devils cannot defeat me. People cannot disillusion me. Weather cannot weary me. Sickness cannot stop me. Battles cannot beat me. Money cannot buy me. Governments cannot silence me, and Hell cannot handle me!

I am a soldier. Even death cannot destroy me. For when my commander calls me from this battlefield, He will promote me to a captain and then bring me back to rule this world with Him.

I am a soldier in the Army, and I'm marching, claiming victory. I will not give up. I will not turn around.

I am a soldier, marching Heaven bound. Here I stand!

Will you stand with me?

My prayer for you today my friends...by Adam Edelstein

April 12, 2010

My prayer for you today my friends...by Adam Edelstein

Beloved try talking things out just sit down with you problems and give them a fair and honest WARNING.

Tell them how BIG you GOD is, and what he does to problems that plague his people, and that HE is only a prayer away.

Advise them that they have to flee, darkness cannot exist when there is light.

Remind them: of the flood, the wedding, the 5000 feast, the blindness cured, the lame that walked, the walls that fell, the people raised, the resurrection.

Remind your problems of what happens when they show up on the doorstep of a child of GOD, a believer of CHRIST, a son or daughter of the KING of Kings.

Remind them and remember yourself that when all seemed lost, when the improbable was all but impossible, that the GOD you serve is STILL in the miracle business, and that BUSINESS IS GOOD!!!

I promise you my friends that if you do this and BELIEVE that GOD has you back, as long as you walk with him your steps will be lighter and there will be a spring in your step, no matter what you face.

Now WALK like you Know.

BE Blessed

Have you ever been here...on either side by Adam Edelstein

Have you ever been here...on either side by Adam Edelstein

April 14, 2010

Recently, my wife planned a date night out for the two of us: dinner and then a concert featuring a jazz pianist she particularly enjoys. When the actual night arrived, we made the hour-long drive to the town where the performance was, picked up our tickets at the theater, and then made our way to a restaurant we had noticed as we arrived into town.

Called the Copper Grill, we arrived at the restaurant doors with healthy appetites and even healthier expectations of a wonderful meal together. Waiting for us, just inside the door were two smartly dressed women - one of whom was holding a clipboard. The holder of the clipboard delivered a marvelous greeting to us, which we enthusiastically returned. Things were looking good for a nice meal and excellent service in a friendly restaurant.

Mademoiselle Clipboard then asked us our names. I replied that we did not have reservations. The other lady then looked at her co-worker and said, "This is going to happen a few times tonight." They went on to explain that the restaurant was new and not open that night. I glanced at all the people sitting at tables, enjoying themselves, and eating my food. Our greeters then told us how the night was just a practice for the staff and kitchen crew before opening for real. Only people who were friends of employees, and on their list, were being served and eating that night. I told the ladies that I didn't mind eating at the restaurant while they practiced - even if they happened to be rude to me. But no, we weren't in the in crowd and that meant no food for us. Before we left they invited us to come back next week.

As I look back on my initial feelings at being turned away from that restaurant, I can't help but think that they were similar to the feelings that many newcomers have when visiting some churches. For the most part, newcomers to churches are hungry and looking for something in their life and most of the churches they visit have people who are very good at saying, "Hello!" and greeting them.

Sadly, however, in many churches the welcome and the welcoming stop there. New people quickly find out that even though there is lots happening and being offered in the church, it is happening for, and being offered to, only those who have an inside connection to people who are already in the church. Hungry visitors to such cold and unfriendly church fortresses soon learn, with sad disappointment, that like the people in the Copper Grill the night I was there, the church they have gone to is only playing restaurant and has no intention to feed them.

Those who turn the hungry away from their churches in such a way often don't realize they are doing it. Instead they usually just huddle together and wonder aloud, "Why isn't our church growing?" Sadly none of them can see that when new people visit them they greet them by saying, "Welcome! Go away."

Promise Yourself by Adam Edelstein

April 13, 2010

Promise Yourself by Adam Edelstein

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness and prosperity to everyone you meet.

To make all your friends feel there is something special in them.

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

To think only the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on the greater achievements of the future.

To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

To be too large for worry,

Too noble for anger,

Too strong for fear,

And too happy to permit the presence of trouble

THE PROMISE OF ETERNAL LIFE by Adam Edelstein

April 11, 2010

THE PROMISE OF ETERNAL LIFE by Adam Edelstein

The promise: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

The context of the promise. Jesus had been speaking with Nicodemus, a leading Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. Nicodemus had admitted that he and his associates knew that Jesus was “a teacher come from God” (John 3:2). But they remained confused.

Jesus told Nicodemus that He had come from heaven to become the focus of Israel’s faith.

Understanding the promise. John 3:16 has been called “the gospel in a nutshell.” It establishes God’s motive in sending His Son: love. It establishes the identity of Jesus: God’s Son. It establishes God’s goal in sending Jesus: to provide everlasting life to a perishing humankind. And it defines the promise implicit in Jesus’ coming: whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.

Claiming the promise. The word believe can be confusing. We believe that Augustus Caesar was the Roman emperor when Jesus was born. But there is a vast difference between this kind of belief and believing in the Jesus who lived in Augustus’s time.
The difference is expressed in two prepositions. We believe what history tells us about Augustus. We agree that certain things in the historical record are probably accurate and true. But we believe in Jesus Christ. While we agree that certain things history tells us about Jesus are accurate and true, we go beyond this kind of belief. What believing in means is that we trust ourselves to the Jesus of history. We rely completely on Him and His sacrifice on Calvary. In doing so, we accept the gift of eternal life which He offers.

There’s another difference too. Our beliefs about Augustus Caesar make no real difference in our lives. But our belief in Jesus Christ will make a profound difference. When we trust ourselves to Jesus, God enters our hearts and begins to work a wonderful transformation. Our motives and desires change, and with them our behavior changes also. Belief in Jesus initiates an inner transformation which gradually reshapes believers toward Jesus’ likeness.

Responding to the promise. Too many people don’t know the difference between belief about the facts of Jesus’ life and death and belief in Jesus. To claim God’s promise of everlasting life, we are to come to a conscious decision to rely on Jesus for forgiveness of our sins and so accept God’s wonderful gift of eternal life.

Be Encouraged

Put up or shut up Adam Edelstein (Christ in Tech)

Put up or shut up Adam Edelstein
Christ in Tech

April 9, 2010

"If you love me keep my commandments." ­ Jesus (John 14:15)

"A ruthless businessman once said to author Mark Twain, "Before I die I mean to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. I will climb Mount Sinai and read the Ten Commandments aloud from the top."

"I have a better idea," Twain remarked, "You could stay home here and keep them."

Talk is cheap. It's what we do that counts not what we say and when our words don't match our actions, we are, as the Apostle Paul put it, as empty vessels and clanging symbols.

One of the best lessons I learned from one of my many teachers was the written comment he seemed to relish writing in bold red letters in the column of several of my written assignments. It read, "Show me. Don't tell me!"

I've never forgotten that lesson. It really applies to all of life's lessons we want to impart to others ­especially to our children! Whatever we want to teach others we need to model ourselves before we can make any lasting impact on anybody else, otherwise what we say is unbelievable and the only person we deceive in the long run will be ourselves.

As a general rule, we teach best that which we ourselves most need to learn. And the place to begin modeling what we want to teach? At home!

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, help me to model the kind of person you want me to be. . .a better father/mother/child . . .friend. . . partner. . .business person. . .Christian so people seeing what you have done in my life will want the same for themselves. Gratefully in Jesus' name."

Go forth and be Bold in JESUS name

When I Say..."I am a Christian" by Adam Edelstein

When I Say..."I am a Christian" by Adam Edelstein

April 5, 2010

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I am saved"
I'm whispering "I get lost!"
"That is why I chose this way."

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need someone to be my guide.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
and pray for strength to carry on.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
and cannot ever pay the debt.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
my flaws are too visible
but God believes I'm worth it.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartaches
which is why I seek His name.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority.
I only know I'm loved.

Trust God one day at a time! by Adam Edelstein (Christ in Tech)

March 31, 2010

Trust God one day at a time! by Adam Edelstein
Christ in Tech

Just for today! I will begin the day by praying: "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24)

Just for today! I will say, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." (Philippians 4:13)

Just for today! I will not worry about my needs, for "...my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)

Just for today! I will not fear, "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity; but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline." (II Timothy 1:7)

Just for today! I will not harbor doubt and lack faith, for "...without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (Hebrews 11:6)

Just for today! I will not lack strength, for "...the Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1b)

Just for today! I will not admit defeat, for God "...always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ, ..." (II Corinthians 2:14b)

Just for today! I will not lack wisdom, for, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask Cod, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)

Just for today! I will not feel condemned, for "..., there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1)

Just for today! I will not be worried or frustrated: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (I Peter 5:7)

Just for today! I will not be depressed, "...for his compassion's never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22b,23)

Just for today! I will not feel alone for Jesus said, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:20b)

Just for today! I will not be discontented, "...for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." (Philippians 4:llb)

Just for today! I will not feel worthless, for "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (II Corinthians 5:21)

Just for today! I will not be confused, "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace…" (I Corinthians 14:33a KJV)

Just for today! I will not let the pressures of life bother me, when Christ said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33b)

Just for today! I will not feel like a failure, when "…in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." (Romans 8:37)

Jesus... by Adam Edelstein

Jesus... by Adam Edelstein

April 1, 2010

Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.

Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.

Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.

Had no army, yet kings feared Him.

He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.

He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.

He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.

The Blood Of Jesus by Adam Edelstein (Christ in Tech)

The Blood Of Jesus by Adam Edelstein (Christ in Tech)

March 26, 2010

One night in a church service a young woman felt the tug of God at her heart. She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and prostitution. But, the change in her was evident. As time went on she became a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the ministry, teaching young children.

It was not very long until this faithful young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans. This is when the problems began. You see, about one half of the church did not think that a woman with a past such as hers was suitable for a pastor's son. The church began to argue and fight about the matter. So they decided to have a meeting. As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand.

The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak. He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this: "My fiancee's past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin. Today you have put the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?" The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all in a lot of trouble. What can wash away my sins, nothing but the blood of Jesus.... end of case!!!

Promises by Adam Edelstein

Promises by Adam Edelstein

March 10, 2010

Simply walk in faith with the promises of GOD...Take possession of your blessing. He has never and will never lie to you.

BELIEF

" I have come into the world as light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." John 12:46

" Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." John 1:12

CHARITY

" Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap." Luke 6:38

" A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor." Proverbs 22:9

COMFORT

" God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

" I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart ! I have overcome the world ! " John 16:33

" Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matt. 11:28

COURAGE

" He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak " Isaiah 40:29

" Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine" Isaiah 43:1

ETERNAL LIFE

" I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life." John 6:47

" And this is what he promises us--even eternal life ." 1 John 2:25

" Jesus said: 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies'....." John 11:25

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand." John 10:27.28

FAITH

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" Heb.11:1

"You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus" Gal. 3:26

"We live by faith, not by sight" 2 Cor. 5:7

FAITHFULNESS

"Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." Deut.7:9

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be moved, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed." Isaiah 54:10

GUIDANCE

" I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8

" I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them, I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them." Isaiah 42:16

JOY

" I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy maybe complete" John 15:11

"...but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." John 16:22

LONG LIFE

" Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. " Isaiah 46:4

" For through me your days will be many, and years will be added to your life." Proverbs 9:11

LOVE

" I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." Jeremiah 31:3

" I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me." Proverbs 8:17

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." 1 Cor. 2:9

MERCY

"...the Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! " Isaiah 30:18

" As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him." Psalm 103:13

PEACE

" Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

" And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:7

PRAYER

" Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you." Jeremiah 29:12

"Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear." Isaiah 65:24

" This is the assurance we have in approaching God; that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us." 1 John 5:14

PROTECTION

"The Lord will keep you from all harm--he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:7, 8

" When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames willnot set you ablaze." Isaiah 43:1,2

"But whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm" Proverbs 1:33

SALVATION

" But when the kindness and love of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Saviour. " Titus 3:4-6

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" 2 Cor 5:17

SUCCESS

" That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil--this is the gift of God." Ecc 3:13

"Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy with his work---this is a gift of God." Ecc 5:19

" With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver." Proverbs 8: 18,19

TRUST

" Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3: 5,6

"Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust...." Psalm 40:4

WISDOM

"For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." Proverbs 2:5

".....He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths...." Isaiah 2:3

WORD OF GOD

" Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads." Deut. 11:18

" All scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training and righteousness. " 2 Tim.3:15.16

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." Psalm 119:105

" The word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

" Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. " Acts 20:32

Talk, Talk, Talk by Adam Edelstein

Talk, Talk, Talk by Adam Edelstein

March 24, 2010

"If you love me keep my commandments." ­ Jesus (John 14:15)

"A ruthless businessman once said to author Mark Twain, "Before I die I mean to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. I will climb Mount Sinai and read the Ten Commandments aloud from the top."

"I have a better idea," Twain remarked, "You could stay home here and keep them."

Talk is cheap. It's what we do that counts not what we say and when our words don't match our actions, we are, as the Apostle Paul put it, as empty vessels and clanging symbols.

One of the best lessons I learned from one of my many teachers was the written comment he seemed to relish writing in bold red letters in the column of several of my written assignments. It read, "Show me. Don't tell me!"

I've never forgotten that lesson. It really applies to all of life's lessons we want to impart to others ­especially to our children! Whatever we want to teach others we need to model ourselves before we can make any lasting impact on anybody else, otherwise what we say is unbelievable and the only person we deceive in the long run will be ourselves.

As a general rule, we teach best that which we ourselves most need to learn. And the place to begin modeling what we want to teach? At home!

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, help me to model the kind of person you want me to be. . .a better father/mother/child . . .friend. . . partner. . .business person. . .Christian so people seeing what you have done in my life will want the same for themselves. Gratefully in Jesus' name."

BE Blessed...Better yet Be Active BE a Blessing

Fuzzy by Adam Edelstein

Fuzzy by Adam Edelstein

March 23, 2010

If you ask around, you find that there are not at all many hard- core atheists about. Most people say they believe in "god", but I want to suggest that they are usually not talking about the Creator God of the Bible, but about a false, "fuzzy" god, whom I shall label "fuzzgod" for short.

Unless our concept of God is totally based upon what God has revealed about Him-self, the word "God" has no fixed content, and communicates no objective meaning. As evolution has eroded trust in the reliability of the Bible, many churches have begun contemplating such ideas as whether God could be referred to as "she". Let’s face it--if people are only talking about a god of their own imaginings (which is all that is possible if the revelation of the true God is effectively discarded) they might be conceivably talking about a three-horned cosmic cow.

On the other hand, once revelation is accepted as authoritative, there is no room for argument on the subject of God’s "gender." Having been told that God is spirit, we are plainly told that He wishes believers to address Him as Father, not mother-- end of discussion.

Let’s list some features of this popular god of today:

l. "Fuzzgod" is not a god of holiness. Whereas the true God hates sin and has repeatedly acted in judgment in history, fuzzgod wouldn’t do anything like that. Fuzzgod only makes people feel good, not bad. Fuzzgod is convenient to give comfort when you need warm fuzzies, and doesn’t really mind about you cheating on your tax. Fuzzgod is good to send just about everyone to heaven (or maybe arrange reincarnation).

2. Fuzzgod accommodates everyone’s opinions. We’ve all heard people say what they think God would or wouldn’t do, oblivious to the pronouncements of the Bible. They must be talking about fuzzgod, since the true God has what is right and wrong regardless of our opinion.

3. The character of the true God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Many regard that as a little stodgy today-- unwilling to change (evolve) with the times. Not like fuzzgod, who is quite flexible, depending on the need--sort of fuzzy around the edges. Fuzzgod’s adherents are similar. I remember asking a hospital chaplain whether he was theologically liberal or conservative. He replied, "Whichever the patient wants me to be."

4. Fuzzgod is broadminded--offering many different ways to truth and enlightenment, whereas God the Creator says there is only one way to Him, through the death and sacrifice of His Son, Jesus.

5. Fuzzgod is only "sort of" the creator of all things. When fuzzgod’s devotees are engaged in sinful actions, it’s convenient to focus on the "impersonal" aspects of the idea that we just evolved from animals- less sense of responsibility that way. But when they want meaning or purpose to existence, the idea of fuzzgod as some sort of vague, impotent guiding force to the evolutionary process helps in a fuzzy sort of way.

The "unfuzzy" miracle-working God of the Bible tells us clearly that He did not stand by while millions of years of death and accidents did the creating.

That sort of powerful God, who caused billions of dead things to be buried in rock layers because of judgment on a sinful world, is quite uncomfortable for the unconverted.

A Christian commercial on public TV features children telling us that "God made everything." I suspect it will do little to wake people up to the Gospel because most would respond, "Yeah, I know that God (they mean the fuzzy variety) let everything evolve." A fuzzy god leads to a fuzzy (or non- existent) Gospel.

All of this underscores why it is so important to make it clear that proclaiming and defending Genesis creation is about more than just "God making things." It is about the authority of the Bible, and the power and nature of (the true) God. It is about the reality of the Fall and the origin of sin.

Thus the ultimate concern is about the whole message of salvation--only through the blood of Jesus Christ.

Candles... by Adam Edelstein (Christ in Tech)

Candles... by Adam Edelstein (Christ in Tech)

March 19, 2010

There was a blackout one night. When the lights went out, I fumbled to the closet where we keep the candles for nights like this. I lit four of them. I was turning to leave with the large candle in my hand when I heard a voice, "Now, hold it right here."

"Who said that?"
"I did." The voice was near my hand.
"Who are you? What are you?"
"I'm a candle."

I lifted up the candle to take a closer look.
There was a tiny face in the wax.

"Don't take me out of here!"
"What?"
"I said, Don't take me out of this room."
"What do you mean? I have to take you out. You're a candle.
Your job is to give light. It's dark out there."

"But you can't take me out. I'm not ready," the candle explained with pleading eyes.

"I need more preparation."

I couldn't believe my ears. "More preparation?"
"Yeah, I've decided I need to research this job of light-giving so I won't go out and make a bunch of mistakes. You'd be surprised how distorted the glow of an untrained candle can be...."

"All right then," I said.
"You're not the only candle on the shelf.
I'll blow you out and take the others!"
But right then I heard other voices,

"We aren't going either!"

I turned to the other candles,
"You are candles and your job is to light dark places!"

"Well, that may be what you think," said the first one,
"You may think we have to go, but I'm busy...
I'm meditating on the importance of light. It's really enlightening."...

"And you other two," I asked, "are you going to stay too?"
A short, fat, purple candle with plump cheeks spoke up. "I'm waiting to get my life together, I'm not stable enough."

The last candle had a female voice, very pleasant to the ear.
"I'd like to help, "she explained, "but lighting the darkness is not my gift...I'm a singer. I sing to other candles to encourage them to burn more brightly."

She began a rendition of "This Little Light of Mine" The other three joined in, filling the closet with singing....I took a step back and considered the absurdity of it all. Four perfectly healthy candles singing to each other about light but refusing to come out of the closet.


Here is a question for you, when was the last time you shared the gospel to someone? This world is full of darkness, with many people stumbling around trying to find their way. You can be a light for them, and believe me, there's a light waiting for you. It can all happen with something as sharing the faith, to just a smile across the room, to a quick hello to a forgotten friend.

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a lamp, and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand; and it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."

-- Matthew 5:14-16

Lost..? by Adam Edelstein (Christ in Tech)

Lost..? by Adam Edelstein
Christ in Tech

March 20, 2010

Make a right turn onto "Believers Boulevard" keep straight and go on through the light (its always green) that is Jesus Christ.

From there, you must turn onto the "Bridge of Faith," which is over troubled water.

When you get off the bridge make that right turn and keep straight. You are now on the "King's Highway" keep going, you'll pass three markers, one is for the Father, one is for the Son and one is for the Holy Spirit.

Exit off onto "Grace Boulevard" make a right turn onto "Fellowship Lane" keep straight until you get to "Prayer Boulevard," make another right turn, as you go on your way.

Yield not to the traffic on "Temptation Avenue" don't take that shortcut down "Sin Street" because it is a dead end! Bypass "Envy Drive" "Backbiting Boulevard" and "Have Avenue."

You'll only waste precious time. Don't get lost on "Hypocrisy Street" or "Abuse Avenue" that's a bad neighborhood. But most likely you will have to travel "Long-suffering Lane," "Persecution Plaza" and Trials and Tribulations Road," they are available, but stay on course, because VICTORY BOULEVARD is straight ahead.

For anyone who has ever lost a loved one... by Adam Edelstein

For anyone who has ever lost a loved one... by Adam Edelstein

March 18, 2010

To my dearest family, some things I’d like to say, but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay. I’m writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.

Here, there’s no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love. Please do not be unhappy, just because I’m out of sight. Remember that I’m with you every morning, noon and night.

That day I had to leave you, when my life on earth was through, God picked me up and hugged me, and He said, “I welcome you.”

It’s good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family, they’ll be here later on. I need you here badly; you’re part of my plan.

There’s so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.” God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do. And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.

And when you lie in bed at night, the day’s chores put to flight. God and I are closest to you, in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years, because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.

But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain. I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.

But if I were to tell you, you wouldn’t understand. But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o’er. I’m closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you, and many hills to climb; but together we can do it, by taking one day at a time. It was always my philosophy and I’d like it for you too, that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who’s in sorrow and pain, then you can say to God at night, ”My day was not in vain.”

And now I am contented, that my life has been worthwhile, knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile. So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low, just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.

When you’re walking down the street, and you’ve got me on your mind; I’m walking in your footsteps, only half a step behind. And when it’s time for you to go, from that body to be free, remember you’re not going, you’re coming here to me.