INFORMATION PAGES

Thursday, December 29, 2011

THE UNITY PROJECT -Week of January 1 - 7

Genesis 1-3 SUNDAY
Genesis 4-7 MONDAY
Genesis 8-11 TUESDAY
Job 1-5 WEDNESDAY
Job 6-9 THURSDAY
Job 10-13 FRIDAY
Job 14-16 SATURDAY

 You are receiving this update because you signed up for THE UNITY PROJECT. (or you are signed up to follow TIDE TURNING TALES) Your comments, insights, questions or ideas are welcome, please keep them within the context of the two rules: NO ARGUMENTS (just state your view) USE SCRIPTURE (as valid as your opinion is, this isn't the forum for it). WE WELCOME TESTIMONIALS ABOUT HOW READING GODS WORD IS CHANGING YOUR LIFE! if you would like to ask a question in confidence, please email us at: turnthetideministry@live.com
 UPDATES AND READING SCHEDULES WILL BE POSTED EVERY SATURDAY EVENING! GOD BLESS YOU IN YOUR GREAT ADVENTURE!

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

THE UNITY PROJECT

According to the Bible in the book of Ephesians chapter 4 verses 1 – 6: I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. Since we have this wonderful world wide web – what a great way to get unified and study the Bible together! Follow this blog (www.tideturningtales.blogspot.com) to receive the regular updates and participate! Every Sunday, we’ll post the weeks reading, which will follow an approximate chronological order of the Bible. You read each day – and insights, questions, provocative thoughts or ideas can be shared with one and all. We only have two simple rules: 1.) NO ARGUING. You can disagree with someone, but PLEASE do so respectfully! We are called to LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Different points of view give us all a chance to think, re-examine and grow. I Timothy 6:3-21 and 2 Peter 1:21. Arguing will accomplish NOTHING! 2.) USE SCRIPTURE. This is about growing in CHRIST, not anyone’s personal views or opinions! Make your point with scripture, let others come to knowledge in their own time and way! 2 Peter 20: Knowing this FIRST – that no prophesy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. THAT’S IT! Join the Body of Christ and READ THE BIBLE THROUGH THIS YEAR! We can’t promise you anything except this one thing – reading Gods word on a daily basis will absolutely change your life! If you read with an open HEART toward God, He will show you marvelous things! LOVE IN CHRIST, TURN THE TIDE MINISTRIES

Thursday, December 15, 2011

…just an insignificant squirrel

It wasn’t even a full grown squirrel. I almost missed seeing him (or her) completely, they were so small. A baby squirrel, tiny and fuzzy and in spite of being wild, cute as any cuddly furry thing I’d ever seen!

I stopped my car in deference to this tiny creature, and watched with unhidden glee as it scampered hither and to, frolicking about right in the middle of the road with no awareness of the danger it was courting.
I waited, patiently but not without some joy, for an adult squirrel to come along and lead this little one out of this danger zone, or for it to finally scamper off into the woods. Thankfully, no one came up behind me the entire time I sat there happily watching this tiny squirrel run back and forth without a care in the world to stop it.

Finally! As I was looking at actually being late for an appointment the cute little thing decided it had entertained me long enough, and off into the woods at the side of the road it went. With a final chuckle and a shake of my head, with a smile a mile wide upon my face, I began to move forward again, heading for my original destination. Instantly and with no warning, this tiny body hurled itself back into the roadway and directly under the tire of my vehicle! I actually felt sick! Here was this adorable creature that moments ago I was identifying with, enjoying watching immensely and with NO desire to do so whatsoever I had run it over and killed it!

I could and had controlled what I was in charge of – my actions and my heart held no malice toward the squirrel. Unfortunately I had no control over this bitty creature and its own action led it directly to an untimely death. I felt bad, truly, but not guilty, and not a sorrow I couldn’t overcome, for I had done “the right thing” that I could do.

I’ve seen this happen with people, and that’s why I tell this story to encourage others! As long as we act responsibly and lovingly toward people in the areas WE have control over – we mustn’t try to also be responsible for those who refuse to act responsibly or who choose actions that lead to sorrowful circumstances in their lives. Each of us is responsible for our decisions, our behaviors, our actions and even our thoughts. As parents, we raise our youngsters and teach all we can, and then comes the time our children become responsible for themselves. Hard to let go, but it is the right thing to do.

Whether a spouse, a friend, a sibling, a parent or a child – there are times when we do all that we can possibly do to HELP and NOT HARM others, we are careful what we say, yet someone is offended, we are as gentle as we can possibly be and still someone is pained by our action, we behave in the best possible way, yet they take action we have no control over and suffer consequences. We may feel pain for their circumstances but we are not responsible for their actions.

Truth sets us free, and THIS truth will free you from false guilt feelings! We need to remember this, because too many people are running around screaming about being the “victim” of others! There is such a sad lack of personal accountability. I did everything I could to avoid hurting that cute little squirrel. Unfortunately, it did something I could not control and the consequence was severe. I feel bad, but NOT GUILTY!

Are there areas of your life you need to let go of unwarranted guilt? Words to consider.
And MERRY CHRISTMAS from Turn the Tide Ministries!

Friday, November 18, 2011

Knowing where you are

I’m guessing it’s a pretty safe assumption that everyone finds themselves questioning their faith at some time or another. It’s the human condition, second guessing ourselves, experiencing feelings of insecurity. To say you NEVER question but have constant faith and immovable belief? Even Paul exhorts in I Corinthians 11:28 that we should examine ourselves. He is specifically referring to the state of your heart at receiving Communion or the Lords Supper, but the exhortation holds true of our general walk as a Christian individual as well.

I’m not talking here about questioning faith in the sense of whether God IS, or if Jesus died for your sins. I’m referring to the day by day, focused living in such a manner that you are continually a witness for Jesus in your words and your deeds as well as keeping that guard on your heart as Proverbs 4:23 warns us to do.

I’m talking about taking time to re-assess where you are, to re-focus where you’re going and to re-evaluate how you’re getting there! You wouldn’t set out on a trip you’ve never taken before and never check that your still following the directions to get there, would you? The idea that we set things in motion once and never look at them again is exactly the kind of thing that gets people into trouble. There are so many factors involved in living life that constant re-determinations are always in order!

When we start on our Christian walk, a certain set of circumstances are in place. As we grow and mature as a Christian, new circumstances come into being and so changes must be made if we want to continue to grow! The church you began in may or may not continue to be the best place for you to serve, God may call you to different areas of service, like Missions or into ministry as a Pastor yourself.

Whether every few months or every few years, it makes good sense to take some time out from the everyday demands of life and set aside specific time to:

RE-ASSESS; by “where you are”, I mean the state of your heart. Is Jesus still your first love? Are you being obedient to Him in the manner you are conducting your life?

RE-FOCUS; “where you’re going” refers to what you are doing – your actions and behaviors. Are you on track with the desires God has put in your heart? Is what you are doing accomplishing Gods will in your life? Is it bringing you the joy and peace you desire?

RE-EVALUATE; “how you are getting there” corresponds directly to you’re the actions you are taking, the words you are speaking and the belief system you hold in your heart. To re-evaluate is to “examine” yourself, to check with the Lord about the things in your heart. Often as we grow in understanding and experience, if we take another look at things we’ve believed and why or how we believe it, change may be in order. God never changes, but He intends that we are continually changing from glory to glory to more perfectly reflect His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

In this journey called LIFE, with God’s Word as our map or GPS along with a humble heart to obey direction and earnest prayer to seek that direction, we’re certain to please our Lord and fulfill the exhortation of the Apostle Paul to “walk worthy of the calling with which we are called.” (Ephesians 4:1)
LET THE JOURNEY BE JOYFUL! MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Sunday, September 18, 2011

IF . . . . (the Design of Church- Fifth and Final)

There is one teeny tiny small word, that, coupled with other words becomes exceedingly POWERFUL in and to our lives. That word is "if".
Coupled with other words, like "if we obey" followed by action - we become unstoppable in the hands of the living God!

There are those times our choices leave us with NO CHOICES - like when God told Adam he could eat of the fruit of every tree in the garden, but NOT the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. For in the day thou eatest thereof.... Adams choice would then leave NO CHOICE.

Then there are those times when IF we choose thus and so, we are faced with further choices, and each one impacts our lives and the lives of those around us.

What if...... How often have YOU thought that? Dreamed it? Imagined all that could be IF only....

"IF" is a powerful word followed by action, reaction or nonaction to be considered.

What IF Naaman, the Centurion who had a Jewish maidservant, had refused to heed her word to him, had NOT gone to Gods Prophet Elisha for healing? And what IF Naaman had remained in his stubborn attitude and refused to do the INSIGNIFICANT thing he was told to do - wash in the Jordan River 7 times - then he would not have been healed of leprosy.

Consider that Moses, when his eyes were firmly fixed on obeying GOD- it was all burning bushes and miraculous signs and extraordinary wonders and water flowing from rocks and manna falling from Heaven Itself - but when he took his eyes OFF God and looked at the need of the people Israel, trying to counsel them and meet their need himself - it was all frustration and irritation which led to disobedience leading to Moses being denied entry into the Promised Land. What IF he'd obeyed?

We have a lot of churches going today, churches who's eyes are "on the people" trying to please them and draw them and entice them into showing up Sunday after Sunday or attend the church programs or support the church causes and its doctrines and disciplines.

They, these churches, have developed program after program which appear to be designed more for making THEM feel good and get noticed, recognized and applauded by other churches than really doing any honest lasting good that truly Glorifies God!

Churches that focus on pleasing people tend to displease the very God they claim to serve!

WHAT IF......


What if instead of our trying to BIND GOD to our limited understanding, what if we allowed God to expand our understanding to receiving His limitlessness?

What if instead of adhering to our ideas of "church", we surrendered to His high calling to BE HIS CHURCH?

What if....?

Saturday, August 6, 2011

The Design of "Church" part 4



Anytime we think about changing an existing institution we have to ask ourselves a few questions. What do we expect from it? What was it designed to do? Is it meeting our expectations? Does it need improvement? How can we improve it? Or should we accept it as it is?

At first glance, these may seem simple questions and your first thoughts may include that the answers are simple, too. However, on deeper reflection and considering the subject matter, perhaps we shouldn't be too hasty in our conclusions.

Religion effects every human being in some shape, form or manner. Even those who would contend they are not "religious" or hold no belief that might be considered religious. The existence (or non-existence) of GOD in some way effects everyone. The response in each of us to that truth has profound effect. Whether we admit it, ignore it or deny it, it is there, it does exist. The 9-11 attack on the United States was driven by religion and affected us all in some way. That alone supports my point. So, given the point that religion effects every human, we can move on to the existence of "church" as an institution. Our responses will run the same gamut. Deeply involved to ignoring it as completely as possible. As an institution, that can be done.

What I'm suggesting is the "church" isn't an institution, and that the Author of "church" never intended it to be the institution is has become. Jesus once told His disciples, "the works that I do, these you will do and greater works than these, because I go to the Father." He, Jesus, also taught that the Kingdom of God resides WITHIN the person, not OUTSIDE of people, and that the actions we take are a result of the Spirit inside motivating us. I am certainly not the first to say that "church" is an ORGANISM, not an organization. I'm suggesting that the very way we human beings have designed the modern day "church" actually inhibits true growth and fellowship with the Lord our God.

It is clear from the teachings of Christ that we are to gather treasures in heaven and not here on this earth. I believe the current church design ENCOURAGES hording and selfishness and greed among those who serve in it. AW Tozer once said that in a contest between God and money, money will win in a mans heart almost every time. We'll justify and excuse, but we'll choose the money. We see time and time again this truth occurring in the leadership and congregation members of the institution called church. MONEY entices and eventually enslaves. It's a struggle we lose far more often than we win. Few, very few indeed can overcome this particular temptation and Jesus was well aware of it. He addressed it and spoke plainly about it. "You cannot serve God and mammon.(money) For you will love the one and hate the other." I confess I struggle mightily with this one, for I would like the comfort money appears to bring the same as anyone else.

Without the structured institution of "church", much of this particular temptation and many others would be done away with. Idolizing the church leader, idolizing the buildings, the programs, the fancy decorations, the comfortable chairs, the Worship Leaders, the music and the list goes on and on.

The saints of God, gathering together to encourage one another, help one another, teach, comfort, exhort and bless one another is absolutely a Biblical model. I'm suggesting that this institutional being we have named "church" isn't the most conducive method, or at the least has become a less conducive method to fellowship and intimacy with the Living God. I'm suggesting radical change in the Body of Christ is in order. We've become too "comfortable" in the Sunday "I go to church" mode. (Or Saturday or Wednesday or whatever DAY you have designated).

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

A Tale of Tide Turning!

Our Heavenly Father, and it is our earnest wish that He is YOURS as well,
is so inherently GOOD to us! Just as the Israelites constantly told
stories of Gods wondrous works to them, so they would not forget, so
we, too, must constantly proclaim the awesome things God does so
we won't take for granted or forget just how awesome He is!

Several weeks ago, we began praying for the salvation of a woman here
in Florida. She had revealed that though she wasn't a "believer", she had
a sister in Colorado who was "born again".

We began to share truth with her as the circumstances allowed, and simply
prayed. (LOVE IT! 'simply prayed'. prayer is SO POWERFUL!) Next thing
we know, God worked the entire situation around so that she and her family
are moving to Colorado, where they will stay with the sister and family for
a time while they get settled.

What are the chances her sister WON'T share Christ with her? I'm guessing
slim to none. I'm putting my HOPE in Christ, that she and her whole family
will come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ!

Every insignificant act, freely offered as a sacifice of thanksgiving to the Creator
becomes an opportunity of HIS GLORY in His hands! ALLELUJAH!! and again
we proclaim PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW!!

In constant prayer,
Clay and Marie Krebs
Turn the Tide Ministries

Sunday, July 3, 2011

The Casey Anthony murder case

As I'm watching the closing arguments of the defense in the case of the murder charge against Casey Anthony, I can't help but consider some greater issue's than the death of one child, as awful as that one death is.

I can't help but consider how society can sit as judge and executioner on a young girl's possible desire to be "rid" of her unwanted child, when society has, by the very act of legalizing abortion and sanctioning a culture of death, taught her for the entirety of her life that she was not obligated to that child. That "getting rid of" an unwanted child was ok. Is it really just a matter of timing, whether it's legal or illegal to "take the life" of an unwanted child that "belongs" to you?

If you are young, immature, selfish, immoral and irresponsible, is it that hard to consider that you might not have a firm straight line on that one? I am in NO WAY excusing this girl. I personally believe a certain way in this case. However, I see a greater issue. The greater issue is the culture we have/are creating as a society and allowing as a society.

Morality is supposedly "outdated" and no longer necessary. Yet the absense of morality leads to horrible behavior that includes murdering children BEFORE they are born, and in my opinion, a greater instance of murdering children AFTER they are born as well.

I beleive in personal accountability. I also believe in the greater responsibility of society as a whole. If we say it's alright to kill children in one instance, doesn't that leave us open to the possibility of killing children in other instances as well?

Again, this in NO WAY excuses the person who took the life of little Caylee Anthony. It's just food for thought. Your thoughts?

Monday, June 27, 2011

The Design of Church Part 3

Part three
How should a “church” be designed? If you’ve read part one and part two of this series, you’ll see a picture emerging, I hope. The church has a very specific purpose. That purpose has never changed, not from the first moment God Himself instituted a gathering of His people. The purpose is twofold. One; to glorify God through Worship and draw closer to Him. Two; to be the place (not A place, but THE place) where Gods people are instructed, equipped, encouraged and empowered to fulfill Gods purpose for their individual lives and the life of the Body of Christ as a whole, with an eye on being examples to the rest of the world so they, too, will know that He is God!

Right about now, I could go into a long dissertation about what the church isn’t about – but I can cut this short by saying it this way – we ‘ve got it wrong in our current church system. We’ve made it all about being a “showplace” for we the people of God, rather than GOD! It’s about “our music, our teaching ability, our drama productions, our classes, our programs, our Pastors and every other type of “title” we’ve been able to think up! It’s about our worship – not WHO is worshiped! It’s about “us, us, us” and all done making us feel very good about ourselves because we claim it’s all done in His name, supposedly for His sake.

Take a good hard look at the words in modern “worship” songs and you’ll see what I’m talking about here. Too many of them are all about “look at ME as I’m worshipping God” and we’re convinced that pleases God if we experience some moving emotion, but the reality is, it’s all about us Us US.

Too many church services are all about the musicians, the Pastors and all the other distractions that keep us from actually doing the work the church was called by God to do. Equipping the Saints – not to glorify their own accomplishments, gather plaques on their walls, lay claim to great fame – but to go out into the world and call others to obedience in Christ to the God who Created them!

I know this is an unpopular idea and isn’t designed to “fill our churches” with tithing souls that fund continuation of our programs and services. Truth seldom sits well in the heart and mind of those who are not actively seeking it with humility. OUCH! That’s us Us US! Like it or not, we have become the “Pharisee’s “ of our time!

BUT THERE IS HOPE! If we are willing to let go of our agenda and welcome Gods agenda.
Stay tuned. And as always, you are very welcome to comment.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

The Design of "Church" part two

Part Two:

“What is the purpose of the church?” is the essential question to be answered before we can move forward with this idea of “The Design of the Church”. Interestingly enough, I’ve received a few responses which bypass this idea completely and declare the “church” in its current form is NO LONGER RELEVANT. Not to sound like I waffle, but I agree, and I disagree. Let me approach it from this direction if I may.

In the Old Testament we see a particular “picture” of the gathering pattern of Gods Chosen People. It began with God Himself giving specific directions. The Tabernacle was to be set up just so, and this and that occurred this way and that way at these specific times, and these certain actions were to be performed by these specific people. It was a wonderful pattern – but one that was not intended to remain “forever” fixed in the same way it began. Over time, we see the varying ways things “evolved” – until Jesus Himself actually tells the religious leaders of His day that their very pattern of worship TRANSGRESSED Gods actual desires. In plain English, their behavior and sacrifices and religious ceremonies NO LONGER PLEASED GOD. (Take a look at the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 15). What does this tell us? Even though the Israelites had been directly given specific instruction concerning HOW TO DO CHURCH, in a fairly short amount of time, they had changed it all so drastically that it didn’t even resemble what it started out as anymore.
In this manner, I agree with those who feel the church is no longer relevant, for I believe the church as we currently conduct it isn't an accurate representation of what it was intended to look like as set in motion after the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ Jesus.

I don’t want each post to go too long, so I’ll get to the point. In its infancy, the first century church looked one way, and then changed and evolved over some period of time to better fit the need of the growing Kingdom and Body of Christ. BUT the PURPOSE remained consistent, and that purpose, I believe, is found in the Apostle Pauls letters to the churches. Specifically in Ephesians, the whole book, there is a pattern that emerges that relates to the purpose of the gathering of God Chosen People. There are relevant passages in every letter he wrote that all fit together to form a complete pattern. The clearest common denominator is the statement found in Ephesians chapter 4 verse 11 through verse 16.

Jesus the Christ appoints LEADERS in His Body, not so they can be revered and lauded and served, but so that they can serve the rest of the Body, preparing believers new and not so new to accomplish the purposes of God Himself.

Once we agree on the purpose, we can begin discussing how BEST to accomplish it. Is there a pattern in the Bible to be followed?

You can comment here or send an email to turnthetideministry@live.com

Your comments and ideas are welcomed and encouraged! Whatever you do, just
MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Sunday, June 19, 2011

The Design of "Church"

The idea for this essay began about 20+ years ago! Back then, I asked the question this way, "WHAT is the PURPOSE of the church?" Today, the question remains essentially the same with a little twist. "What is the purpose of the church and what is the best way to accomplish that purpose?"
About now, some of you may be thinking of answers. GOOD!
email them to us at turnthetideministry@live.com
I'm serious, and I'm serious about an answer to this question.

Over the last number of years (20+!)I've attended a few different churches. Some I was visiting as a person off the street, some I visited as a guest Pastor/Evangelist. Some I served in as a layperson, and some I served in as a Staff Pastor. I began to wonder, is "consistency, McDonalds style" really the best way to "do church"? You know what I mean. You go to any McDonalds and even though the service may differ from store to store, the food is consistently the same. Burgers, fries, shakes - all the same. Same meat, same condiments, same buns. That consistency gives a feeling of security about the food we're ordering, no surprises, no differences and that comforts us in some way.

BUT IS THAT THE WAY OUR CHURCHES OUGHT TO PERFORM? IS THAT THE WAY OF THE BODY OF CHRIST?

Those who care to, please think on, chew on, meditate about, pray about and read the Bible about this for a few days. I'll be back with more.

Would you like fries with that burger?

Whatever we do, let's be certain to:

MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Monday, June 6, 2011

Worship

WORSHIP...
You say the word worship and it conjures up many different thoughts, feelings and pictures in the mind. Music playing, people praying, hands lifted high, looks of heavenly ecstasy on their faces, some singing, some swaying, some praying loudly while others stand or sit with tears rolling down their cheeks.

Others might picture one in solitude, silently contemplating the wonders all around them, or kneeling alone, head bowed, mouthing words of thanksgiving.

What if I said worship was standing on the sidewalk, handing sandwiches and coffee to the destitute, homeless or just down and out? What if worship were described as boldly, kindly going into the street and sharing a message of love and freedom with prostitutes, drug dealers and hardened criminals? Worship, when you’re alone and no one else is looking or even cares what you’re doing, and you do the right thing anyway? Worship, when someone spits in your face and calls you names and abuses you even though you’re doing your best to help them, and you offer love and grace? Worship, when you’re facing a temptation and you really want to do what you want to do, and you humbly choose instead to obey commands from a book, authored by One you’ve never seen, in purest of HOPE that it’s truth you can trust and rely on.

Worship is the value, the worth you place on something. Or someone. God, your Creator, Jesus His Son, your King and Lord. What value, what esteem do you hold them in, in your own heart, in your personal and intimate deepest place? That value will determine how you behave, how you speak, what you do, how you spend your time and how you treat other people. The greater value you place on God, the greater your response to Him will be. Not just on Sunday, not just in church, not just when the music’s playing, not just when someone else is watching, not just when you think it counts, but all the time, in every situation, toward everyone you come in contact with. As your relationship with Him grows, you will grow in your attitudes and behaviors.

Before you know it, you’ll no longer think of worship as being a separate “thing” you do or a set aside for a certain place or time. It’ll be the life your living, the joy you’re experiencing and the motivating factor of every facet of life for you. So those times when you’re singing and praying and reading the Bible and lifting your hands and exuberantly offering praise to the Lord your God will be only ONE of the times and ways in which you worship the Almighty.

Saturday, April 9, 2011

PRAYER

Talking about the Lord appears to be less than popular with most folks. It seems to immediately inspire distrust and a backing away. This surely ought not be! Those of us who know Jesus as Lord and Savior think "how can this be?"

We don't question it anymore. We simply see it to be the truth as we encounter folks and engage them in conversation.

We have also found it to be true, that although people are pretty closed to talking about Jesus for the most part, they are just as OPEN to PRAYER.

Everyone needs prayer. Most everyone wants prayer. Whatever else we all say we believe or don't believe in, it seems we all sense the rightness, the applicability, the need for prayer. In any of it's forms, this simple form of communication brings the individual into direct contact with the Creator - GOD. (What they do with it after that is varied!) No conflict about theology, belief systems, methods or style of worship - just direct communication from our hearts to His ears.

Sure - many say "no thanks" when we offer to pray for them, pray with them, and we respect their decision. Free will, right? However, in the majority, asking NOTHING of people, but offering them this universally accepted way to sense peace and gain help opens doors as nothing else I've ever seen has been able to do.

Today, please allow me to pray with you, to pray for you:

Father in Heaven, how great and mighty is the very sound of Your Name! Spoken out loud or in silent plea by people, what peace it brings, what sense of soundness and wholeness and what energy it generates! Your Name spoken has the power to restore what is broken, return what is lost, bring life to what is dead, shed light into the darkness, and change every circumstance and turn around any situation in order to bring blessing and comfort and Joy everlasting to those who speak with faith.

I ask in prayer right now, that those reading these words, though there be no power in this prayer - no power in these words themselves - that as they whisper or shout or speak or groan or mumble or sing the Name above all Names, the Name of Jesus - the power of that Name will be unleashed on their behalf and in their lives to their good and well-being. Thank you, Lord, for hearing and responding according to Your Will and Grace and Mercy, AMEN.

Monday, April 4, 2011

Family, Realtionships and How Christ Changes all things to the Good!

Just the very fact that we've been able to take this little one week "vacation" to visit and love on family is a gift from God we are very thankful for. One of our continual prayers is about healed and restored relationships within the family unit. What a wonder it is to see prayers actually being answered right in front of our eyes and in our own hearts!

Allow me a moment to encourage others here:

no matter what the circumstances of your family relationships, in giving these things over to the Lord in prayer you will be amazed at what HE can do with the messes we've made!

In my family were various broken, hurtful relationships that I would have said could not be healed, could not be restored. Ahhhh, but that would be without taking Gods healing power into account! I am awed by my Gods loving hand which has restored, healed and repaired and built new relationships within my family structure that simply bring JOY!

WITH GOD, NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE!!

Faith - prayer - obedience

All work together to bring our hearts into submission to the Lord Almighty, and He brings about change necessary for great and mighty things to occur!

That's the great thing about prayer. We pray and it changes US! Which opens the way to changed relationships which opens the way to changed lives and hearts and has ETERNAL consequences that are a blessing!!

We'll be heading back onto the Mission Field tomorrow morning - and we'll be taking with us some wonderful memories of all that God has done!

May you, too, find strength in Him!

Blessings to you!

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Performers or Ministers?

For those who are not familiar with Turn the Tide Ministries, we are a Missionary/Evangelist couple. My husband is a gifted and talented musician who not only sings and plays the guitar, but has written (sometimes with the help of his wife :0) almost 100 praise, worship and Christian life songs. We have recorded 30 of them to three CD's at this point, (if your interested, you can find them available thru our website: turnthetideminitries.com)

Always, the flesh is wrangling against the Spirit and we suffer it's effects like everyone else who attempts to walk with Christ. Clay loves to share the music he's written and I'm blessed to accompany him as I'm able. Several times since beginning the Great Adventure, we've had the opportunity to share in concert venue's and at churches and even in public parks (utilizing our generator on occasion for electricity!).

The wrestling comes in as we try to separate "performance" from "ministry". Are we "performers" of music? Or are we Evangelists delivering the message of Salvation to the lost and the music is an instrument to open doors to that? Lately especially, we've wrestled with these two very different schools of thought. You might think this should be easy, or even, why couldn't both be mixed together? Why are they separate? It isn't easy - because the very thought processes of performers are at odds with Ambassadors representing the Lord Jesus our Savior. I realize that a great deal of Christian singers combine these two ideals - sharing music and sharing the Gospel. However - our call isn't the same. Our call is as Evangelists. Different, very different from performers of Christian music who speak of their faith.

Our friend Pastor Bill put it quite nicely the other day. We were talking about the next "concert" venue we've been invited to - in order to share our music but they've also opened it for us to share the Gospel message. We are to be the "opening" act - from there, there are several well known, large and "name" Christian groups who's ministry IS the music that they will be performing. I don't believe we are performing, we are ministering. Pastor Bill put it like this: THE DIFFERENCE IS, YOUR NOT PERFORMERS YOU ARE MINISTERS.

Very different mind set, very different message delivery, very different lifestyle and focus. And therein is the struggle - to remain MINISTERS while PERFORMING some music in order to REACH THE LOST WITH THE MESSAGE OF SALVATION THROUGH JESUS OUR LORD!

Keep praying for us, and we'll be praying for you.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Transformation-Sanctification; a constant activity

Even while the Lord is utilizing through me all the talent and ability He put in me, at the same time He is working ON me! As I reach out to others, pray with them, pray for them, share the love of Christ with them, preach the Gospel of Salvation – so is my own heart being convicted, set free, changed and transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit working in me.

When Jesus called each of the disciples to BE His disciples, the Bible doesn’t show Him sitting down with each of them, explaining His theology, laying out His doctrinal system of belief or even pointing out to them that they were sinners in need of a Savior! Nor did He show that they were ignorant and in need of instruction. His call was simple, straightforward and FREEING, rather than enslaving. He said “Follow me”, and then shared His life, His thoughts, His beliefs, His doctrine, His very PURPOSE through the actions they SAW Him perform and the WORDS they heard Him speak.

So we, according to 2Corinthians 3:3, are to be living ‘epistles” – alive LETTERS to be read by all men, in our actions, deeds and words, showing Christ Himself through those actions, deeds and words to this world which desperately needs Him and His love.

II Corinthians 3: 2-3 (NKJV) You are our epistle written in our hearts known and read by all men: clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on the tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.

Monday, February 28, 2011

Self professing "pagans"

FEB 26th, we put on a free concert at the St. Lucie Presbyterian Church (thank you Pastor Bill). Prior to the concert, we went around the neighborhood praying for people. Just knocked on their doors, bold as you please, and asked them if there were anything we could pray with them about. One door was opened, and when we made our announcement, the woman informed us they were a family of "pagans", but that recently, their youngest daughter Nia (please pray for her!) had expressed an interest in the Bible and knowing who God was. They didn't want to discourage her discovery, so would we come in and talk to her? (WOULD WE???? ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?!?!?)

In we went, and shared the Gospel message clearly, to all the family, prayed with Nia for ALL her family, and then invited them to the ocncert on the 26th. IN SPITE OF THE FACT that it was the same night as the county Fair (wow, we missed that in our date planning!!) THE WHOLE "PAGAN" family came to the concert.

Once again, they heard not only great music (you can check out our original music at the website: turnthetideministries.com) but they heard the message of Salvation once again - and I'll tell you this. No, they didn't jump out of their seats and give their lives to Christ that moment - but they DID (and I watched this!) end up sitting on the very edge of their seats listening intently to the message - which was clearly illustrated in the music as well.

I know everyone there was blessed, and we sold some CD's, but if we sang and spoke ONLY to that family - I would consider it worth it!

When young Nia came up for prayer afterwards, and asked if she could donate to the Turn the Tide Ministries, her 50c in my mind is the same as the widows mite Jesus speaks of in the Gospel. Maybe I'm slightly prejudiced, for I myself was once the lone child following God in a household of witchcraft, alcoholism, abuse (Nia does NOT have that element!) - and I can relate to her!

WAIT!!!! keep reading, I'm not done!!!!

About a year ago, we began praying for God to provide a "haven" for my Mom. She currently lives with my brother and his wife, and they are WONDERFUL to Mom, but she really wanted to be in a place of her own. So, we prayed. That's it. Never said a word to anyone!

Two days ago, a couple at a 55+ park in Ft. Pierce who Mom has dogsat for in the the past, called her and asked, would she be itnerested in owning a 2 bedroom, 2 bath home in the park? His Mom could no longer live alone. They don't want any money for it.

THEY ARE GIVING HER THE HOME FOR ABSOLUTELY FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

'NOUGH SAID?!?!?!?!??!

Friday, February 18, 2011

Door to Door

What a wonderful day, door to door evangelizing with Pastor Bill of St. Lucie Presbyterian! Some gentle folks who appeared to "humor" us by not slamming the door in our faces, and then the self labeled "pagan" family....

yep, that's what they told us when they opened the door - that they were avowed pagans. except..... one of the daughters. She had rejected the witchcraft, tarot cards etc in favor of a desire to know God and to read His word. My heart about popped out of my chest. The young lady could very well have been me, 45 years earlier! No, not in looks (she's way cuter!) but in hearts desire!

How does God do that? Call to a heart enveloped in darkness? Shrouded in darkness? Surrounded by darkness? I don't know the answer to that, but I know that He does it!

Her Mom invited us in to talk to her - which surprised me - NOT! God knew just what He was doing! And so, I was PRIVILEGED - YES - PRIVILEGED to pray with this young lady, talk with her about what she was reading in the Bible, encourage her and offer some direction! We then took hands and prayed for the healing of her father, and for her continued growth. We invited her to the concert we're doing in her neighborhood in another week.

Do I even need to mention her inclusion on my prayer list?

Now, tell me again about the insignificance of knocking on someone's door?
I LOVE BEING AN AMBASSADOR FOR CHRIST! WHAT FUN!

Monday, February 14, 2011

Question of the Week

I was praying, meditating and just generally thinking about the things of God, when this interesting (I thought) idea popped into my mind.

JUST EXACTLY HOW DID THE APOSTLE PAUL INSPIRE HIS JAILERS TO SURRENDER THEIR LIVES TO THE VERY THING THAT PUT PAUL IN JAIL IN THE FIRST PLACE?

Here we are, a good too many of us anyway, scared to witness Jesus for fear we'll be made fun of, people won't like it or whatever our personal excuse is for avoiding doing what we have been commissioned by Himself to do, and we are walking around FREE.

Paul was in jail, in peril of his physical life, at the mercy of those who held him, and he not only WITNESSED Jesus Christ, Him crucified and raised from the dead, but he actually PERSUADED his very jailers to believe the same thing that put Paul in their jail cell!

I do believe that Paul was a very persuasive orator, however, unless they saw POWER and PURPOSE and PERSONAL GAIN in the message, it isn't likely his jailers would risk themselves in this manner. Especially not considering that this was a society that was KILLING CHRISTIANS.

What Paul may have said is fairly obvious from his writings - he would have told them they were sinners in need of a Savior and that Jesus IS that Savior who died for their redemption. What accompanied that testimony that persuaded them? His enthusiasm? Would that have been enough for them to risk their lives? His sincerity? Could that have ever been enough? Words are powerful tools, but just words alone I'm sure could not have done it.

Those words must have been confirmed by actual changes in their hearts, actual manifestation of God healing power and His transforming Presence!

When Paul spoke, he did so with FAITH that God would move! Do we speak with FAITH or timidity?

MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Friday, February 4, 2011

How God works things out...

When your life is in the hands of the Living God, sometimes events happen - not always of the happiest variety - that you think are "out of place" or just don't make sense to you.

Then somewhere or sometime down the line, another event occurs and you get a glimpse of how the Almighty God puts things together in such a way to bring the greatest blessings, the greatest joy and show you that He truly is in charge and trustworthy. Ignorant people will call it "coincidence" and never give the glory to the Lord where it belongs. That's okay. Psalm 78 clearly shows us the path of the unrighteous - where it ends.

So, from a seemingly easily categorized as negative event, I ended up in front of a young lady at the bank. Who received a phone call just at the time I was with her. Who I encouraged to go ahead and take the call as it was OBVIOUS she was anxious about it.

Turns out it was her doctors office, and it was important - for she is in the midst of IVF - Invetro Fertilization treatments. This presented a wonderful opportunity for me to:

1. encourage her greatly, sharing the story of my dear friend Traci. (who is sending a copy of her book about her experience for Annette to enjoy)

2. Pray for her and share about Gods love and grace toward her

3. be reminded my own self that I am safely in the arms of the Lord who loves me and created me, and whatever happens, even if it seems negative, is all part of His fantastic plan for me! (I needed that right then!)

On top of all that, I now can share the story with all of you, and I pray in Jesus name that you will all be encouraged as well, for the Lord is trustworthy and His Mercies endure FOREVER!

We're out here, every day, seeking the lost, looking for opportunity to show Gods love. I admit to you, it ain't always easy joy - but it is always joy! When I ask you to remember to pray for us - PLEASE PRAY! Pray for our daily needs to be met, pray for our safety, pray for opportunity to witness, pray for resources for us to tap into.
WE APPRECIATE YOUR PRAYERS MORE THAN WE CAN EXPRESS!!

We'd love to hear from you! You can comment here or on the website!

Friday, January 28, 2011

Who is it REALLY about?!?

I was thinking about a saying that started going around the churches a few years back. It was a "refocus" call, sort - of.
"It's not about you, it's about JESUS."

Since we started this Great Adventure I've had the chance to visit quite a few different churches, talked with a lot of people I might not have had the opportunity to otherwise. I'm hearing certain phrases over and over - and it leaves me wondering if we ever really "got it".

Also, as a result of this drastic lifestyle change we've experienced, I've really HAD to press in closer to the Lord, learn more dramatically to trust Him, count on Him, seek Him and rely on Him more so than ever previously. As much as I've read the Bible in the past, I'm reading even more now or maybe I'm just reading it differently?

In any case, I was meditating on some of the things I'd read, and I started to see something that put a whole new perspective to exactly WHERE our focus ought to be in regard to where Jesus' heart was focused. It wasn't on Himself - and it wasn't exclusively on those who believed and followed Him. His focus? On those who still needed to know Him.

In other words, it not only isn't about "us" - our want, our need and our desire. And it's also not only about Jesus - simply worshipping and praising Him. Well, then what is it about?

THE LOST.

Those who don't know Him and perhaps don't even know or acknowledge that they need Him! The exhortation in Acts chapter 1 leads me to believe this is a legitimate rally cry, for He did not end His earthly ministry by telling the Disciple's to focus on Him, worship Him, think about Him, praise Him. No. His last command was to GO INTO ALL THE WORLD AND TELL OTHERS ABOUT HIM. His focus was on the "lost" - those who don't know Him yet.

A new rallying cry for the church? You decide. I think so. In my heart it is. Of course, I am by calling an Evangelist.

MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Sunday, January 23, 2011

OMIGOSH! It really works!!!

How would you react if someone was deliberately rude and obnoxious to you? We'd all like to think we'd "turn the other cheek" - but truth is, almost all of us except those who are masters of self control, would struggle with this one!

I know I sure did! New neighbor was beyond rude when I took time out to welcome them and introduce myself. I was so shocked, I just kept a smile plastered on my face and walked away as politely as possible!

Then I got down on my knee's and asked God to help me overcome my natural desire to AVOID them completely - and went right back out and offered to help them in any way I possibly could.

Are they my new best friend? NO!! However, from where I am standing, the door is open to share Christ with them. I already offered prayer for his knee injury (my second time out)- which he turned down. I smiled and reiterated if there were anything I could do for them I happily would.

Obedience leaves no room for ego. Thank you Lord. Bless those who curse you. Yes, Jesus, I will choose to do as you would do. Is it okay if I ask others to pray for me - for strength to be nice???

and how has your Sunday been?
www.turnthetideministries.com

Monday, January 17, 2011

News report; man predicts "RAPTURE" May 21, 2011

Yes, while it is certainly and indisputably true that we are in the End Times, predicting a date for the Rapture does no good for anyone.

First, it is disobedient to the Lord, as He Himself stated in Matthew 25:13 "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."

Second; silly predictions like this make all Christian believers look like idiots, and as an Evangelist, who's life calling is to preach the Gospel of Salvation, this just adds to the difficulty of bringing the truth to people.

While I agree we are living at a time when it could happen anytime, since the day Christ spoke - it could have happened anytime. WE DON'T KNOW THE DAY OR THE HOUR. WE ARE TO WATCH AND BE PREPARED. WE ARE TO PREACH THE GOSPEL.

If we stick to what our Lord told us to do and say, we have opportunity to share the truth and fulfill our ministry of reconciliation (IICorinthians 5:18-20). When we go beyond that, we are simply flapping our gums out of our own desires and are not acting in accordance with His perfect will.

God really created the Heaven and Earth in the beginning. Christ really walked the earth and really died for our sins. We really do need to know the TRUTH for it alone will set us free.

MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST! turnthetideministries.com
.

WHAT WE DO

FREE CONCERTS:
Featuring all original songs and a dramatic testimony of life changing conversion inspiring others to share the Glorious Gospel of Salvation with Friends and Family!

AWAKENING SEMINAR:
In-depth testimony of dramatic conversion testimonies combined with practical applications of Biblical truths concerning Gods Grace and Deliverance. Strong emphasis on REPENTANCE; FORGIVENESS; GRACE AND SURRENDER. Knowing who YOU are in Christ and living a lifestyle of WITNESSING.

CHRISTMAS PLAY:
An excellent outreach vehicle, this fresh new tale of Christmas involves a special Bee, a repentant Santa and a young hero who will warm your heart! The Christmas Bee is available in play form or book form.


CD SALES:
1. All Aboard; 10 songs of Salvations Joy and Hope!
2. Modern Psalm; 10 songs of prayer and contemplation
3. Good Morning Jesus; 10 songs of praise to the King!
4. If My People; 10 inspirational praise songs
Suggested donation of $15 per CD ordered includes shipping.

WHY WE DO IT

We share the Gospel with everyone we meet and encourage them to grow in Christ. Those who know Christ, we CHALLENGE them to submit more fully to the work of the Holy Spirit and live wholly as "Living Sacrifices". Our work is not about outward things such as programs and church buildings, but the inward change in the hearts of people.

WE ARE OPEN TO GO WHEREVER THE HOLY SPIRIT SENDS US AND WORK WITH ANYONE ACROSS DENOMINATIONAL LINES WHO SHARES THE SAME DESIRE TO EXPERIENCE "ONE BODY IN CHRIST".

We lead by example, we serve by unction of the Spirit, we influence through prayer.

Alone, we can do little,
Together, we can accomplish much
Apart from Him who sent us we can do NOTHING!

PARTNER WITH US!

If you are starting a church or working to build up an existing ministry, we are available to assist in the areas of Music Ministry, Evangelism Outreach to
BUILD THE BODY OF CHRIST AND UNITY IN THE SPIRIT!

I Timothy 2:4
God… desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the TRUTH.

II Corinthians 5: 16 - 21
Therefore from now on we regard no one according to the flesh....if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation...now all things are of God....who has given to us the ministry of reconciliation...and has committed to us the word of reconciliation... NOW THEN WE ARE AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST...that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

James 2:15-16
If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food and one of you says to them “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?

Acts 5:32 - 35
Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 34: Nor was there any among them who lacked…35: and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore brethren by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God which is your reasonable service.

John 15:5
I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me and I in him bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

FREE CONCERTS

WITH OVER 80 ORIGINAL SONGS TO SHARE, CLAY & MARIE HAVE FOUND THEIR MUSIC TO BE AN EXCELLENT DOOR OPENER FOR NOT ONLY SHARING THE GOOD NEWS OF SALVATION WITH UNBELIEVERS, BUT IN SHARING A PERSONAL STORY OF DRAMATIC CONVERSION THEY ARE ABLE ALSO TO ENCOURAGE AND EXHORT THE BODY OF CHRIST TO SHARE THE GOOD NEWS OF SALVATION AND GRACE WITH THEIR OWN FAMILY MEMBERS AND FRIENDS.

IN ANSWER TO A CONFIRMED CALL OF GOD TO TRAVEL AS BOLD EXAMPLES OF AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST, PROCLAIMING THE MESSAGE OF GODS GRACE, HOPE AND HEALING, THEY SOLD EVERYTHING THEY COULD AND GIVING THE REST AWAY THEY SET OUT ON WHAT THEY REFER TO AS "THE GREAT ADVENTURE".


NOW TRAVELING THE USA, THEY PROCLAIM THE GOOD NEWS, THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST WHEREVER THEY ARE WHILE MINISTERING A CALL OF UNITY TO THE BODY OF CHRIST ACROSS ALL DENOMINATIONAL LINES.

BY SPONSORING A FREE CONCERT LOCAL CHURCH CONGREGATIONS RECEIVE ENCOURAGEMENT, STIRRING UP THEIR HEARTS TOWARD GREATER OUTREACH IN THEIR COMMUNITIES.

LOVE OFFERINGS ARE ACCEPTED BUT NOT REQUIRED. WE DO ASK TO BE ALLOWED TO MAKE OUR CD'S AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT EVENTS.

THE CHRISTMAS BEE

ON OUR WEBSITE WE'VE MADE THE CHRISTMAS BEE AVAILABLE TO OTHERS - EITHER TO PUT ON A PRODUCTION OR TO REQUEST WE COME AND ASSIST IN MOUNTING A PRODUCTION. A SYNOPSIS OF THIS PLAY FOLLOWS THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

REQUEST SCRIPT WITH PERMISSION TO USE: SUGGESTED DONATION IS $100.00

FORWARD CHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO MARIE KREBS C/O ROGERS 554 SW VIOLET AVE PORT ST LUCIE, FL 34983 ALONG WITH ADDRESS TO FORWARD SCRIPT, STAGE DIRECTIONS, COSTUME SUGGESTIONS AND SET DESIGN INFORMATION

REQUEST PERSONAL ASSISTANCE WITH PRODUCTION: COVER COST OF TRAVEL EXPENSE (TO BE DETERMINED) ALONG WITH SUGGESTED DONATION $100.00
CONTACT US BY CELL: 720-261-1790 EMAIL: turnthetideministry@live.com

ALLOW YOURSELF AT LEAST 90 DAYS TO MOUNT ANY PRODUCTION INCLUDING CASTING, REHEARSALS AND SET DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

PERSONAL ASSISTANCE: PLEASE MAKE YOUR REQUEST 6 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE DATE YOU WISH TO HOLD YOUR PERFORMANCE

THE CHRISTMAS BEE: A delightfully refreshing tale about understanding the true meaning of Christmas. Santa learns it's NOT all about him and that without the Spirit of Christ there can be no Christmas at all. The Holy Spirit is represented by a very humble and special Bumble Bee making this play a great outreach event, as it gently introduces the story of the Nativity back into our cultural holidays while appealing to young and old, believer and non-believer alike.

SETS CAN BE ELABORATE OR SIMPLE; CHARACTERS CAN BE EASILY CONVERTED TO SUIT THE PLAYERS AVAILABLE. USUAL CAST WILL REQUIRE 16 PEOPLE. THIS PLAY IS APPROPRIATE FOR CHILDRENS MINISTRY, YOUTH GROUP OR ADULT PRODUCTION.

ORIGINAL MUSIC SOUNDTRACK IS INCLUDED FOR USE WITH THE PRODUCTION.

Friday, January 14, 2011

Great Advice!

During my Ministerial Internship, Dr. Dickens used to say to me: don't try to be who or what anyone else is, just be the VERY BEST YOU FOR CHRIST THAT YOU CAN BE!

GREAT ADVICE! and worth passing on. Especially when you are "in ministry" there is a tendency for OTHERS to compare you to what else is out there, what some other ministry is doing, what another believer is accomplishing and that can be very discouraging!

Truth is - NONE of us can "do it all". A ministry that is doing more is able to do so because it has MORE PEOPLE DOING STUFF! Each individual is part of a larger whole, and all believers are part of the larger BODY OF CHRIST.

BE ENCOURAGED - all you individual's out there doing all you can to Glorify your Father in Heaven. You do not have to do it all, you only have to do what YOU CAN DO THE BEST THAT YOU CAN DO IT.

Never stop reaching for all God has for you!
MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Thursday, January 6, 2011

THE STARFISH

One day a young boy and his parents were walking on the beach. Thousands of beautiful Starfish had washed up on the shore and the boy was fascinated by them! “Mommy do the Starfish live in the sand?” “No” his Mommy told him, “they need to live in the ocean.” After a moment he asked his father “Daddy, what happens if they don’t get back into the ocean?” “They’ll dry up” his Daddy told him. The young boy began running up and down the shore, gently picking up a stranded Starfish and delivering it back into the ocean where it needed to be. “Son, what are you doing?” the Mommy and Daddy asked him. “You can’t possibly save them all, it’ll hardly make a difference” He thought a moment and then answered them, “I know, but it can make a difference to this one, and this one, and this one…..”

That's how we are to be with people. Don't be overwhelmed, or daunted by the many who do not know Jesus as their Savior - work with one at a time. If truly all Heaven rejoices over one soul, why would we do less?

CHANGING LIVES ONE AT A TIME....
Turn the Tide Ministries
MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Monday, January 3, 2011

News report; man predicts "RAPTURE" May 21, 2011

Yes, while it is certainly and indisputably true that we are in the End Times, predicting a date for the Rapture does no good for anyone.

First, it is disobedient to the Lord, as He Himself stated in Matthew 25:13 "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."

Second; silly predictions like this make all Christian believers look like idiots, and as an Evangelist, who's life calling is to preach the Gospel of Salvation, this just adds to the difficulty of bringing the truth to people.

While I agree we are living at a time when it could happen anytime, since the day Christ spoke - it could have happened anytime. WE DON'T KNOW THE DAY OR THE HOUR. WE ARE TO WATCH AND BE PREPARED. WE ARE TO PREACH THE GOSPEL.

If we stick to what our Lord told us to do and say, we have opportunity to share the truth and fulfill our ministry of reconciliation (IICorinthians 5:18-20). When we go beyond that, we are simply flapping our gums out of our own desires and are not acting in accordance with His perfect will.

God really created the Heaven and Earth in the beginning. Christ really walked the earth and really died for our sins. We really do need to know the TRUTH for it alone will set us free.

MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST! turnthetideministries.com
.

Saturday, January 1, 2011

THE LIST

Okay all you out there! Here's the challenge for the New Year - make a commitment and MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!

Here's "THE LIST".
Do at least one of these things every single day this year! (They are in no particular order of importance - God considers every one of them important!)

James 1:27 - Visit orphans and widows in their trouble

Matthew 25:34-36 - feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, take in the stranger, visit the sick, visit those in prison

Matthew 10:7-8 - Preach "the Kingdom of God is at hand", heal the sick, cleanse the leper, raise the dead, cast out demons, GIVE AS FREELY AS YOU HAVE RECEIVED.

Hebrews13:1-3 -Entertain strangers, remember those in prison and those who are mistreated

Galatians 6:1 - if a brother is overtaken in sin, restore such a one in a spirit of meekness

James 5:19-20 - turn back a brother in error to truth and save his soul from death and cover a mulitude of sin

Acts 1:8 - be a witness for Christ

These 18 items are by no means a complete and extensive listing of all we could and should be doing, but they are certainly enough to keep us busy and begin making a difference in our little corner of the world!

BE BLESSED! BE AN AMBASSADOR! MAKE IT COUNT FOR CHRIST!