JOURNAL OF THE BAPTIST MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION OF MISSISSIPPI

JUNE 15, 2011 VOL. 65 NO. 12

VSMs Are ‘One Step Closer’by Jamie Morganby Jamie Morganby Jamie Morganby Jamie Morganby Jamie Morgan

Assistant to International MissionsAssistant to International MissionsAssistant to International MissionsAssistant to International MissionsAssistant to International Missions

Last week (first week of June), 68students and leaders met at DanielSprings Baptist Encampment for theVSM 2011 Boot Camp. Students forthe 10 teams met their leaders for thefirst time and enjoyed the heat likeonly Gary, Texas, can provide. Theweek is designed to introduce studentsto different aspects they may encoun-ter on the mission field. They are testedmentally, physically and spiritually.

This year the students were chal-lenged in team building activities thatencouraged them to work together,making their experiences on the fielda little less stressful. They workedtogether to go through an airport re-lay, which simulated security, bag-gage claim and customs/immigration.They also had to answer multiple-choice questions that were about eachof the 10 countries where our students

will travel. This tested their knowl-edge about their destinations.

The highlight of the week for moststudents was the Survival night wherestudents had to work together withtheir team to run an obstacle course.They were challenged with eating badfood, balancing on a platform, crawl-ing through mud and several otherthings. Although it’s not always easy,the teams really bond through theseactivities.

Students also heard great speakersfrom within the BMAA. Student Mis-sions Director, Donny Parrish, spoketo the students about Team Dynamicsand he challenged the students to putothers before themselves on their teamand on the mission field. John DavidSmith, executive director of the Mis-sions Office, spoke to the studentsabout Biblical Foundations and World

Barker, all directors at the MissionsOffice, spoke about the importance ofpersonal testimonies, developing inti-macy with God and challenges in ourown backyard. (Bro. Larry was actu-ally helping with relief efforts in Joplin,Missouri, during the week but he re-corded his message beforehand for thestudents reminding them about theimportance of helping serve in theirown backyard firsthand.)

Tony Crocker from the ISHELP (in-teractive self-help English learningprogram) ministry led the last sessionand he spoke about bringing the visionhome and knowing how you can tellothers about the most important partsof your mission trip.

Boot Camp ended on Friday with acommissioning service where theteams were prayed over by leadersand parents. Students were sad to saytheir goodbyes but excited about get-ting one step closer to their actualtrips.

The Cape Verde team will be thefirst to leave on June 14 followed byour Romania team leaving on June 16.Teams will be traveling all summerthrough Aug. 1. If you would like tostay in touch with the teams and hearabout what they are doing, check outthe Missions Website:www.bmaamissions.org. You can clickon message boards to get to the entriesfrom our students and leaders.

If you are interested in being part ofa VSM team as a student or leader,please email me atjmorgan@bmaam.com.

Dynamics. He made the students stopand think about trends affecting Glo-bal Missions and possible conflicts theymay face on the field. Adam Thomas,pastor for Family Ministries at WyattBaptist Church in El Dorado, talkedabout the importance of making sureevery one of the team members knowsthe message of Jesus Christ.

Everyone also heard about “Practi-cal Stuff” for their trips from JesslynnSpence, veteran VSM team leader.

Phil Knott, Jerry Kidd and Larry

by The Editorby The Editorby The Editorby The Editorby The EditorRocky Branch Baptist Church near

Sumrall, Mississippi, was destroyedby fire early Monday morning, June 6,2011. Pastor Dale Broom was awak-

ened by a phone call from the sheriffsdepartment to inform him of the blaze.Evidently a passerby reported the fireabout 4:00 AM on Monday morning.

When Bro. & Mrs. Broom arrived atthe scene the churchwas totally engulfedin flames. The build-ings are a total loss.The Brooms wererecently elected asself-support mis-sionaries to the Af-rican country ofGhana by the Bap-tist Missionary As-sociation ofAmerica. Theiroriginal plans wereto depart for themission field sometime this Fall.

Church destroyed by arsonist

Pastor and Mrs. Broom in front of destroyed church

Broom said he does not know if andhow this event will effect the move toGhana.

A number of local churches haverallied to the aid of Rocky Branch andoffered the use of their facilities whilethe church is rebuilding. The ImproveBaptist Church, located about 6 milesfrom Rocky Branch, has made theiractivity building (the old ImproveSchool) available. At this early date itseems that the church will be meetingthere on a temporary basis. PastorBroom noted that church membersdrive from a wide area and the Im-prove building will be convenient.

Lamar County arson investigatorshave determined the fire was deliber-ately set. An arrest has been made andthe individual was charged with burn-ing or destruction of a church or placeof worship.

Broom said that "God still is in con-trol and He has a plan and a purposefor this."

2 June 15, 2011 • Mississippi Baptist

Shawn Hammontree

Mark LivingstonJason Aultman Kent Wiles

Gungor Bob Smiley

July 4 - 6, 2011Marriott Rivercenter, San Antonio, Texas

REGISTRATION - $70 Per Person by the June 10, 2011 deadline. Includes all sessions, artists and a conference t-shirt. Late Registration - $80 Per Person and Staing Off-Site Hotel Fee - $90 Per Person All in attendance are expected to pay registration. Fees are non-refundable after the deadline.

HOTEL INFORMATION - Marriott Rivercenter is the housing and meeting host for SOAR 2011. Room rate is $109 per night with up to four to a room. Make your reservations by calling 1-800-266-9432 or follow the link on our website to make online hotel reservations.

Go to www.DiscipleGuide.org/soar for more information and to register.

Powered by

Commission on Senior AdultsVern D.Holifield, Director

4226 Highway 15 NorthLaurel, Mississippi 39440

Well, here we are in themonth of June. Six months of2011 will soon be history. Junebrings Vacation Bible School.Do you remember when we heldtwo week Bible Schools? Backthen crafts were a big a part ofBible School. There was paint,glue, paper, etc all over thechurch buildings. VacationBible School can be a great soulwinning time. The month ofJune opens the doors to revivaltime. May God bless our pas-tors and churches as they readyfor this summer's activities?

OOPS!OOPS!OOPS!OOPS!OOPS!In my last article in the Mis-

sissippi Baptist Paper I was

expressing my thanks and myjoy that the Lord, through thechurches of the BMA of Missis-sippi had given us great lead-ers. In listing those who areheads of BMAA departments Ifailed to name Brother SteveCrawley as Director of Lifeword. I am sorry for that error. Maythe Lord give us more goodleaders.

AppreciationAppreciationAppreciationAppreciationAppreciationI do appreciate the BMAA

Seminary for conferring theHonorary Doctor of DivinityDegree on me. They also con-ferred the degree on BrotherGrover Laird and BrotherJames Blaylock. All three are

Mississippi preachers. I countit an honor and will always behumbled for all such blessings.

Another BlessingAnother BlessingAnother BlessingAnother BlessingAnother BlessingOn May 22nd the Mt Olive

Baptist Church, Union, Mis-sissippi, observed homecomingservices and their one hun-dredth anniversary. I washonored to be asked to bringthe message. Mt. Olive wasthe second church I tried topastor. I was there in 1950 -1951.

Believe it or not, there werea few people present who re-membered our time with them.Those who remembered werevery young back in 1950. Thechurch enjoyed a great day.

Mt. Olive is one of ourchurches kind if on the fringearea of most of her sisterchurches, but they have re-mained steadfast for our BMAAssociation. She was a mem-

ber of the Big Creek Associa-tion for many years. They nowbelong with the Mid CentralAssociation. They have a goodyoung pastor and family in theperson of Brother Bill Raines.

In Times Like TheseIn Times Like TheseIn Times Like TheseIn Times Like TheseIn Times Like TheseIn times like these God's chil-

dren must determine to seekGod's face. This is the time forChristians to seek true Biblicalrevival. True Biblical revival isa personal matter. In timeslike these the Lord's Church isto stand tenaciously for theWord of God. I am not talkingabout standing on the Word ofGod in fleshly pride. God willnot bless an arrogant spirit orattitude. I have known goodmen to ruin their testimony andtheir ministry because they hadan arrogant, ugly and hatefulspirit. In times like these trueChristians are to identify sin.We must look at sin through

the eyes of the Scripture. Intimes like these Christiansmust get back to loving oneanother. It is commanded bythe Lord that we love one an-other. In times like these wemust pray for a heart of com-passion for lost sinners. If wecan focus on the awful plight ofhell bound sinners, then lessimportant things won't demandour time and energy. We mustget eyes off of our pet projectsand look on the fields that arefilled with hurting people. Intimes like these God's peoplemust return to our first love.The first love is love for God.

Time Is ShortTime Is ShortTime Is ShortTime Is ShortTime Is ShortThe last days spoken of in

the Scripture are upon us. Infact, we must be deep into thelast days. What we do we mustdo quickly. While we work wemust look up for our redemp-tion indeed draws nigh.

Backside of the Desertby Joseph Harris

$86,400What if someone promised

to deposit $86,400.00 into yourbank account each day? Youwould ask 'What's the catch?"The catch is, all money left overat the end of the day would belost. But remember, the nextday, another $86,400.00 wouldbe deposited again. Would youtry to spend the entire amounteach day in order to keep fromlosing any of it?

Actually, this does happento everyone each day...sort of.

Every 24 hour period contains86,400 seconds of time and timeis a priceless commodity. Thetime you do not invest wiselyeach day is gone forever.

How much time do you spendwith God each day? We mustnot only makethe time, but itmust be qualitytime in the pres-ence of God. Realprayer takestime. Readingthe bible andwaiting for God to speak fromHis word requires time. In thisfast paced modern world, it isall too easy to never have

enough time in important ar-eas of life. Family time oftensuffers, and personal relax-ation away from stress and thecares of life is often non-exis-tent.

As always, the bible has aword and example to follow.Paul himself is a good example.He worked full time in the min-istry and supported himself bymaking tents. A study of hislife and missionary journeyswill reveal that he was ex-tremely busy with little timeto spare, yet he stayed in com-munion with God. Personaltime with God ranked high onhis list of priorities. His fellow-

ship with God helps explain hispositive attitude in sufferingand his tireless determinationto press toward the mark. Hereceived strength by consis-tently spending time with Godfor renewal and refreshing.Perhaps William Longstaff saidit best with these well knownwords:

Take time to be holy,The world rushes on;

Spend much time in secretWith Jesus alone;

By looking to Jesus,Like Him thou shalt be;

Thy friends in thy conductHis likeness shall see.

Joseph Harris

Rev. & Mrs.Milton Wrightcelebrate 63rdAnniversary

Bro. Milton & Mrs. DotWright recently celebratedtheir 63rd wedding anniver-sary. Sixty-two of these years

were spent in service to theLord. The Wright’s served inpastoral, missionary, and evan-gelism in five different states.Bro. Wright taught at South-eastern Baptist College, Lau-rel, and also served as an ad-junct faculty member in vari-ous parts of Mississippi. Wrightreceived his AA degree fromJacksonville College, and aTHB from BMA Seminary. Hereceived his BA in Bible fromSoutheastern College, Laurel.

Bro. & Mrs. Wright acknowl-edge that God has blessed themwith a good life in His serviceand by His grace. He is no longerable to preach, but asks that heand Mrs. Wright be remem-bered in prayer.

The Wrights offer theirthanks and appreciation tothose individuals and churcheswho have been supportive ofthem.

3June 15, 2011 • Mississippi Baptist

Freedom Offering July 3, 2011Freedom Offering July 3, 2011Freedom Offering July 3, 2011Freedom Offering July 3, 2011Freedom Offering July 3, 2011Our annual Moral Action

Freedom Offering is upon us.We are excited as we encour-age our BMA family to share inthis ministry. We ask eachchurch and their classes/auxil-iaries to take a special offeringfor Moral Action Ministries onJuly 3rd.

Soldiers are our ConcernSoldiers are our ConcernSoldiers are our ConcernSoldiers are our ConcernSoldiers are our ConcernOur soldiers are on the front

fighting everyday for the free-dom that we cherish in theUnited States. Your church/auxiliaries or individuals maywish to send an offering inhonor or memory of a Soldier.Be sure and include their namewhen you send in the offering.Moral Action will list these in-dividuals in a future report.

Moral ActionBaptist Missionary Association of America

Dr. John M. Adams,DirectorP.O. Box 305, Mantachie, MS 38855 - 662-231-3863

Email - fbcdjmaj@yahoo.comJohn Adams

Remember to pray daily for thesafety of our men and women.They are certainly deserving ofthis honor.

Washington, D.C., 2011Washington, D.C., 2011Washington, D.C., 2011Washington, D.C., 2011Washington, D.C., 2011Mrs. Adams and I have just

returned from DC. We were inWashington, May 23-28 for theannual “Watchmen On TheWall Conference” with theFamily Research Council andDr. Tony Perkins. Approxi-mately six hundred (600) at-tendees listened to congress-men, congresswomen, Senatorsand God’s ministers as theyshared their vision for America.

We were privileged to repre-sent our BMA churches in thisawesome event. One of thehighlights was the Prayer Walkaround the Capitol Building

and the United States Senate/House offices.

Darla and I had an opportu-nity to meet and talk with Presi-dential candidate and UnitedStates Congresswoman,Michele Bachmann from Min-nesota. She gave an excellentspeech regarding the moralneeds and financial responsi-bility of our nation.

We also had opportunity toshare with United States Sena-tor, Jim Demint, of South Caro-lina. I wish to recommend hisbook “Saving Freedom.” It isexcellent reading.

Please pray for those wholead us in our Nation’s capitol.There is a glimmer of hopeas many of our leaders are step-ping up to the challenge of lead-ing our nation back to a God-centered, responsible people. Ihave witnessed first hand thefaith and passion that some ofour leaders display. We stillbelieve in II Chronicles 7:14.

Visit us on the webVisit us on the webVisit us on the webVisit us on the webVisit us on the webTake time to visit us online

at www.macbma.netGod bless each of you and

God bless America

'Gay' group seeks apologyfrom Southern BaptistsOneNewsNow OneNewsNow OneNewsNow OneNewsNow OneNewsNow - A SouthernBaptist leader doesn't think apro-homosexual group will gettoo far with its request for anapology from the conservativeProtestant denomination.

Get Equal, a pro-homosexualadvocacy group, has launcheda petition drive that calls onthe denomination to apologizefor its teaching against the ho-mosexual lifestyle. Organizerson the group's website contendthe Southern Baptist Conven-tion (SBC) is causing harm tothe lesbian, "gay," bisexual andtransgender (LGBT) commu-nity, and petition signatureswill be delivered this week tothe SBC's annual meeting inPhoenix.

Terry Fox, senior pastor ofSummit Church in Wichita,Kansas, and a longtime leaderwithin the denomination, saysthe group is looking in thewrong place for an apology. "Ithink they're the ones that oweAmerica an apology," he con-tends. "Their whole platform,that whole organization...isnothing but perversion, and itdamages families, it damageschildren. Ultimately, it dam-ages our own society."

Fox, who has been in the

ministry for over 32 years, tellsOneNewsNow he is proud thathis denomination has stoodstrong on moral issues in themidst of increasingly liberalChristian teachings.

"It shows [Get Equal]think[s] they have become anaccepted organization inAmerica, which I would beg todiffer with them," the pastoradds. "Any poll you would takefrom any region in America,including the more liberal partsof the country, they would findthat they're out of sync with allof society. So I'm embarrassedfor them for even asking for anapology."

In 1995, the Southern Bap-tist Convention repudiated sla-very, denounced racism andissued a public apology for therole the denomination mighthave played in harming Afri-can-Americans. Get Equalleaders liken its desire for anapology to the same action 15years ago.

Meanwhile, a new studyshows that 2010 was not kindto the nation's largest Protes-tant denomination, as theSouthern Baptist Conventionreports its lowest record of bap-tisms in 60 years.

The Annual Church Profile(ACP) was compiled by LifeWayChristian Resources in coop-eration with Baptist state con-ventions, and it was releasedin advance for the convention'sannual meeting, which opensTuesday in Phoenix. EdStetzer, president of LifeWayResearch, says the nearly fivepercent decline signals seriousissues within the denomina-tion.

"I think the reality is thatsomething needs to change, andI think it's possible it's kind ofat the peak starting to tip intodecline," he suggests. "But de-cisions need to be made, direc-tions need to be set, and I thinkchurches need to engage theircommunities to see that changecome."

Primary worship attendancein SBC churches mirrors thedrop in overall membership,declining 0.19 percent to6,195,449 in 2010.

Stetzer points to several con-tributing factors and notes leth-argy as one of the top reasons.

"I think you've got a lot ofpeople who are not engaged inmuch more than attendance,"he laments. "I also think thatSouthern Baptist churcheshave struggled because they'renot engaging their communi-ties well, and so I think thereare some methodological shiftsthat need to take place so that

the gospel can be understoodin a new generation amongpeople who live where we are -- not where we were."

As members gather for theannual convention this week,Stetzer is hopeful leaders willrecognize the changes that needto be made.

"As I look at the future, weneed to teach our churches tobe more effective, to live onmission," the LifeWay Researchpresident contends. "We needto engage ethnic leaders and[the] next generation, and weneed to be more focused on whatwe're for and less on what we'reagainst."

And despite the decliningstatistics, church leaders hopethe SBC will continue to standfor biblical values and teach-ings.

Hear What We Sayby Charles M. Lee, pastorby Charles M. Lee, pastorby Charles M. Lee, pastorby Charles M. Lee, pastorby Charles M. Lee, pastorPineview Baptist ChurchPineview Baptist ChurchPineview Baptist ChurchPineview Baptist ChurchPineview Baptist Church

Purvis, MississippiPurvis, MississippiPurvis, MississippiPurvis, MississippiPurvis, Mississippi

As Blinda was leaving thehouse the other morning, sheasked me a question that I pon-dered on all day. Well, “pon-dered” might not describe ac-curately the discomfortand anguish boilingwithin me as theseconds ticked offan excruciatinglycold-syrup slowtype of day. Per-haps, franticallypondered would bea better usage of theway I spent my day.Now I am not at theage of my grandpar-ents when they be-gan yelling at eachother because of hearing loss,but I will readily admit that Iam not a morning person ei-ther, and many days it takesme until the crack of noon be-fore all my senses reach peakperformance. Either way itseemed odd that my beautiful(notice I said beautiful, dear)wife would ask me this ques-tion.

“I’m leaving you for Ward,would you mind packing myclothes so I won’t have to whenI get home?”

My eyelids sprang to atten-tion with such promptness thatmilitary recruiters all overstarted calling and asking if Icould bring them to their basesand train new recruits, but Ihad other things occupying mythoughts. As the van pulleddown the narrow road by our

home, I ran screaming afterthe exhaust fumes in the futilehope of apologizing for what-ever I had done to make her

want to leave me. Being insuch great physical

shape, I nearly madethe end of the drive-way before collaps-ing from exhaus-tion.

Well, by golly, ifthat’s the way shewants it, thenthat’s the way she’ll

get it. And I’m notpacking her clothes ei-

ther! Leave me for someguy named Ward and ex-

pect me to pack her stuff,humph.

When she walked throughthe door that evening, I hadnearly gotten all our suitcasespacked. It took me all daybecause I needed to wash theclothes and I figured I would goahead and pack mine just tosee if she would let me comealong too.

“Oh, you did wash the clotheslike I asked you to this morn-ing! Most of the times when Ileave for work you don’t hear aword I say.”

Wash the clothes? WASHTHE CLOTHES!!! LEAVINGFOR WORK!!! “Of course Ilisten to you sugar dumpling.In fact, I packed us some clothesin case you wanted to go spenda few nights at the Bed andBreakfast.” Heh, heh. Whatshe doesn’t know won’t hurther. It felt good to get one overon her. That’s how marriageworks and also why I am not amarriage counselor. I did learnthat Bed and Breakfast placesaren’t cheap, but it has might-ily improved my hearing.

A week later, Blinda camehome and mentioned they hadhired a new employee at work.“I think they said his name wasWard” she hollered as she camein from the kitchen. “What onearth are you doing now,Chuck?”

“Just packing the suitcases.”I wonder if they give discountsfor frequent visitors at the B &B?

4 June 15, 2011 • Mississippi Baptist

Opinion PageJournal of the Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi

Letters FromOur Readers

Letters reflect the opinion of thewriter and not necessarily this

publication or the BMA of Mississippi

Don J. Brown, EditorE-Mail - editor@msbaptist.orgWeb site www.msbaptist.org

USPS 353-960P.O. Box 8181

Laurel, Mississippi 39441-8000

Phone 601-426-3293Fax 601-763-4430

PRICE$20.00 Per Year by Mail

$10.00 Per Year by EmailCHURCH PLAN$ 1.30 Per Month

Published on the 1st and 15th of each month by the Baptist MissionaryAssociation of Mississippi. Periodical postage paid at Hattiesburg,Mississippi 39402.

Postmaster: Send address changes to the Mississippi Baptist Paper,P.O. Box 8181, Laurel, MS 39441-8000.

Church of the Covered Dish BY THOMAS TAPP

Pastor availablePastor availablePastor availablePastor availablePastor availablefor extra servicefor extra servicefor extra servicefor extra servicefor extra serviceGreetings my brother, in theName of our Lord

As you know my church wasinvited into the association atthis past month’s meeting forwhich the wife and I are eter-nally grateful. However, Ihave another favor to ask. Atthe present time, we are onlyholding Sunday morning ser-vices and the bills go on. Assuch, I am available for pulpitsupply, revivals, as well asGospel concerts.

I have been in the ministryfor 42 years, having pastoredthroughout southern Louisianaand preached revivals as well.I am also a Gospel soloist andhave sung in various venuesthroughout Mississippi in thepast year. Anything that youcan do for me would be greatlyappreciated.

Rev. Richard C. Arceneauxrcarceneaux@ftcweb.netPastor of Outreach Minis-

tries For the Lord ChapelCell Phone: 601-807-1755

Office: 601-384-3170rcarceneaux@ftcweb.netEddiceton, Mississippi

PositionsAvailable

Church seeks pastorMineral Springs Missionary

Baptist Church, Taylorsville, Mis-sissippi, is seeking a pastor. Forthose interested please contactCarl Ivey at 601-782-9437 or JoeBlakeney at 601-782-4205.

Cat Ivey, Church Clerk

Youth-Music Director SoughtFairview Baptist Church in

Blytheville Arkansas, is seekinga full-time music and youth di-rector. If interested please callpastor Collin Jones at 870-838-9035.

U.S.-Israel relationshipthrown 'out the window'OneNewsNow OneNewsNow OneNewsNow OneNewsNow OneNewsNow - A Jerusalem-based Messianic Jewish minis-try dedicated to solidarity withIsrael says President BarackObama has effectively de-stroyed the special relationshipbetween Israel and the UnitedStates with his demand thatthe Jewish nation return to itspre-1967 borders.

President Obama has beenforced to concede that he hasserious differences with IsraeliPrime Minister BenjaminNetanyahu on the question of afuture state for the Palestin-ians. After Friday's lengthymeeting in the Oval Office,Netanyahu told Obama thatIsrael values the U.S.president's efforts to advancethe peace process, but he madeit clear that Israel cannot re-turn to the 1967 borders, whichhe calls "indefensible."

"There's a traditional, spe-cial relationship betweenAmerica and Israel that Obamais basically throwing out thewindow in a sense," lamentsDavid Parsons, spokesman forthe International ChristianEmbassy Jerusalem (ICEJ)."Obama has declared the settle-ments are no longer legitimateand [that Israel has to] go backto the '67 line."

And Parsons believes someserious questions will be raisedabout Obama's leadership inplaces like Europe.

"They may...be an even moreimportant player now," he sug-gests. "They'll probably jumpon this line of the '67 borders,but even they are starting tohave questions about President

Obama in the foreign policyfield [and] the fact that he'sjust not being coherent andclear in enunciating policiesthat are really in our interest."

But now that the Palestin-ian Authority has the supportof Obama, the ICEJ spokes-man predicts the Palestinianswill dig in their heels on theborder issue.

Obama 'harmful for Israel'Obama 'harmful for Israel'Obama 'harmful for Israel'Obama 'harmful for Israel'Obama 'harmful for Israel'A U.S.-born Israeli author

and expert on the Middle East,who survived an Islamic ter-rorist attack, joins Parsons incriticizing President Obama'sremarks.

David Rubin, who emigratedfrom New York City to Israelnearly 20 years ago, shares theoutrage of many Israel sup-porters over President Obama'sdecision to side with the Pales-tinian demand that Israel re-turn to its pre-1967 war bor-ders.

According to Rubin, PrimeMinister Netanyahu had nochoice but tell Obama that Is-rael cannot do that. "PresidentObama is very harmful for Is-rael and very dangerous forthe future of Judeo-Christiancivilization," Rubin warns, add-ing, "I believe that verystrongly."

He goes on to note that "thereare a lot of Jewish donors in theDemocratic Party, [so] it's nosecret that a great majority ofAmerican Jews voted forObama in 2008. I think it wasone of the worst mistakes thatthey could have made. Theydid so probably based more on

liberal principles than onObama's reputed support forIsrael."

But the author hopes andprays that American Jews willunderstand that Obama posesa threat for Israel, the countrythat is tied to their fate.

Markell: Israel readyto defend itselfOneNewsNowOneNewsNowOneNewsNowOneNewsNowOneNewsNow - The leader of aMessianic Jewish ministry be-lieves Israel is willing to dowhatever it takes to defend it-self against the threat fromSyria, which has become morehostile in recent weeks.

On Sunday (June 5), Israeliself-defense forces were com-pelled to open fire on a mob ofPalestinians and Syrians whotried to storm across the Is-raeli border into the GolanHeights, leaving as many as 23protestors dead.

But a state-run Syrian gov-ernment newspaper assuresthat "marches" to the borderwill continue and warns Israelthat the day will come whenthousands of Syrians will re-turn to what they claim are"occupied" villages. It also saysSunday's march was only anintroduction, and Israel shouldnot be surprised when 600,000so-called Syrian "refugees"cross the border.

But Jan Markell of OliveTree Ministries believes Israelis prepared to harshly deal withSyria if things get out of hand."We do know that Israel is onrecord . . . saying if Israel findsany weapons of mass destruc-tion landing on them comingfrom Syria, they will respondwith weapons of mass destruc-tion," she notes.

And she points to the proph-ecy in Isaiah 17 that tells ofDamascus' destruction, whichwill take place sometime in thefuture.

"The destruction of Dam-ascus, the timing of that wedon't know. It has not happenedin the past, [but] it has to hap-pen," Markell explains. "Somesay that it's going to happen inthe very near future, otherssay in the tribulation. We don'tknow."

But she concludes that theBible makes it clear that Godgave the disputed land to theJews -- not to the Palestiniansor Syrians.

not how God intended you to gothrough life. It isn't pleasant.But it can be done in the rightChristian spirit. Your onlyother choice is to live with mis-ery.

Often times the confrontedperson had no idea and theyback way off when you makethem aware. But even if theydon't, you should set bound-aries of self-protection andspeak the truth in love. If youneed courage to do it, ask Godfor it. Be kind. Be loving. Beprayerful. And speak up. Therelationship and sanity you aresaving is your own.

PlumleePlumleePlumleePlumleePlumleefrom page 5from page 5from page 5from page 5from page 5

5June 15, 2011 • Mississippi Baptist

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Family ArkMinistries

Travis Plumlee

Confronting Those We Love"Maybe if I just be quiet, and

be patient, they will change. Ican't upset this person becausethey are such a big part of mylife. It is probably easier to putup with the remarks than tostart World War III. But wow,are they ever wrong about me."

Have you ever said thingslike this? Do you have some-one in your family, your church,or your workplace that is say-ing or doing some really unfairthings towards you? Confront-ing someone about their be-havior towards you, is one ofthe hardest things to do in thefield of human relationships.You don't want to hurt the re-lationship. You love this per-son. Or at the very least, youhave an on-going relationshipwith them, such as someoneyou work with. You don't wantto stir up trouble. You want tobe seen as a nice Christian per-son. Isn't it easier to just let itslide?

It may be easier to let it slide,but it is also unhealthy andunholy. It is a dysfunctionalfamily where we keep secrets.It is a messed up home where

we give a smile to someone,and then turn and gossip aboutthem to another family mem-ber. Is it really easier to comehome all upset all the time? Ifit is a family member who in-

flicts verbal attacks, then ev-ery family get-together is adreaded opportunity for pain.If it is a co-worker, then youhave to face your Goliath whotaunts you every day. If it issomeone at church, then youreally feel like you can't sayanything because you are inchurch. Yet, this person andtheir remarks can ruin thespirit of worship.

Nothing will change fromyour silence. If it is too hard foryou to confront the person, thenyou are choosing to live withthe relationship as it is. You

can't gripe or complain aboutthe other person if you aren'tgoing to do anything about it. Ifsomeone is bothering you bysomething they say or continueto do, then you must confrontthem in a loving way.Ephesians 4:15 tells us to speakthe truth in love.

In love. This is the part wheremany Christians fail. As Chris-tians we are to even love ourenemies. We are to show theworld a different way of re-sponding to difficulties in life.We have the power of Christ inus. He has taught us new waysto respond to old hurts. We arenow different creatures. So, itis okay to be angry. That is nota sin. God and Jesus are bothperfect, and they both becameangry in the Bible and that ispart of their character. It ishowever, never okay to sin withour anger, which is by the waywe choose to respond with it.Exploding, holding it in, bear-ing grudges are all unhealthyways of dealing with our angertowards someone.

We must learn to communi-cate to solve all problems in

life. Some Christians speakthe truth. But they do so with aviscous manner. They excusetheir tirades in the name ofhonesty. "Well, I can't help it.I am an honest person." We aresuppose to be honest, but youcan help it by not being cruel orexploding on someone. Thereis a healthy, holy way to re-spond to others who are wreak-ing havoc on your life. That isto speak the truth. But youmust always do it in love.

What does that mean? Younever have permission to name-call, gossip, belittle or dishonorthe other person. You can speakthe truth in love to a parent orin-law or adult child withoutbeing hateful, spiteful or dis-honoring. You can confrontyour mother about making youfeel guilty. But you don't havebiblical permission to yell ather, call her names, put herdown or in anyway dishonorher. Yet, it is very appropriatefor you to follow scriptural prin-ciples in dealing with this per-son.

You always go to them inprivate. Never have an audi-ence. It puts people on the de-fensive and actually is oftentimes done to humiliate theother person. If it is trouble

with parents or adult children,the adult child speaks directlyto his/her own parents ratherthan the daughter/son in law.It is wise for the parents tohave their own child presentwhen confronting a daughter/son in law. This is the onlyexception to the previous rule.

This is for verification.This is for verification.This is for verification.This is for verification.This is for verification.You don't have to be mean to

the other person. It is calledboundary setting. God hasmade me worthy throughChrist to not accept verbalabuse. Life is short and I won'tgo through life feeling guilty,shamed or inadequate. " I needyour help. I feel _____ whenyou say _____." Be specific.Can you please give me a breakon the reminders. If they sayokay but you make me feel_____ when you ____. Acceptit. Deal with it. Talk about it.

This is how we solve prob-lems. Communicate. But keepyour words sweet, non-inflam-matory, don't get angry or emo-tional. Try this. Pray for God togive you the words before theconfrontation. But to just keepputting up with this is miser-able and dysfunctional and is

continued on page 4continued on page 4continued on page 4continued on page 4continued on page 4

6 June 15, 2011 • Mississippi Baptist

Mississippi W.M.A.Blinda Lee, President

77 Morrow Rd., Purvis,MS 39475601-596-3417

blinda.lee@lamarcountyschools.org

Corresponding SecretaryMrs. Shirlene Smith

730 Hwy 533, Laurel, MS 39443601-729-5638

Hobolochitto WMA reportThe Hobolochitto Ladies met re-

cently at Bienville Baptist Church,Carriere. After prayer they wereblessed with a devotional from Mrs.Jane Mitchell from Ezekial 37 on “Ris-ing Up and Serving The Lord”.

Reports were given and it was notedtheir July meeting will be held atWestlawn Church, Picayune. Eachchurch is urged to be represented atthis meeting.

Bro. Reeves brought a message fromI Kings 17. Special prayer was liftedup for the recent storm victims. Mt.Calvary received the banner.

Those attending enjoyed a deliciousmeal after the meeting. The ladies willmeet at IHOP on July 2 for a time offellowship.

Jean Overton, reporter

Ten Mile WMA MeetingThe Ten Mile District WMA held

their April meeting at VardamanStreet Church, Wiggins. Mrs. LouiseCrawley presided and Mrs. AlanaWoods led us in song. The theme was‘All for One Ephesians’ 4:4-6.

Our Devotional was from, Psalms142-5, by our President Mrs. Crawley.Our Program was presented byVardaman Street. Mrs. Crawleybrought an outstanding presentationon Introducing people to Jesus Christ,how important it is and gave us anumber of methods for doing so.

Our next meeting will be on July 11,2011, at Heritage Baptist Church, inBiloxi, at 7:00 p.m.

We will be electing officers for thenext year.

Maria Ochoa, reporter

B.R.A.G. 2011July 28,29,&30

Oakland Baptist Church - Vicksburg,MSOakland Baptiat Church and BMA of Mississippi Youth Department presentB.R.A.G. 2011.

The theme for this year is “Surrender”. We have worked hard to have qualityspeakers who are great ministers of God. The music has been carefully selectedas well. We are praying and expecting a great time with God at B.R.A.G. 2011.

Any information not listed below can be found by contacting Oakland BaptistChurch at 601-638-6724.

Registration FormRegistration FormRegistration FormRegistration FormRegistration Form

Church ____________________________________ Phone _____________________

Address ________________________________________________________________

Youth Leader / Chaperone _______________________________________________

T-Shirt SizesT-Shirt SizesT-Shirt SizesT-Shirt SizesT-Shirt Sizes

Small _____ Medium _____ Large _____

X-Large _____ XX-Large _____ XXX-Large _____

Total Number Attending ______ at $40.00 each = ___________

Registrations forms must be turned in by June 28 - Mail to:Registrations forms must be turned in by June 28 - Mail to:Registrations forms must be turned in by June 28 - Mail to:Registrations forms must be turned in by June 28 - Mail to:Registrations forms must be turned in by June 28 - Mail to:

Oakland Baptist ChurchOakland Baptist ChurchOakland Baptist ChurchOakland Baptist ChurchOakland Baptist Church2959 Oak Ridge Rd2959 Oak Ridge Rd2959 Oak Ridge Rd2959 Oak Ridge Rd2959 Oak Ridge Rd

Vicksburg, MS 39183Vicksburg, MS 39183Vicksburg, MS 39183Vicksburg, MS 39183Vicksburg, MS 39183Payment may be made at registrationPayment may be made at registrationPayment may be made at registrationPayment may be made at registrationPayment may be made at registration

B.R.A.G. ScheduleB.R.A.G. ScheduleB.R.A.G. ScheduleB.R.A.G. ScheduleB.R.A.G. Schedule

Thursday - July 28Registration 4:30 pmOpening & Welcome 6:00 pmBreak 7:00Session 1 7:30

Friday - July 29Session 2 9:00 amLunchB.R.A.G. Challenge 1:30 pmSession 3 6:00 pm

Saturday - July 30Session 4 9:00 am

B.R.A.G. SpeakersB.R.A.G. SpeakersB.R.A.G. SpeakersB.R.A.G. SpeakersB.R.A.G. Speakers

Todd & Paige WestTodd & Paige WestTodd & Paige WestTodd & Paige WestTodd & Paige WestRichard PayneRichard PayneRichard PayneRichard PayneRichard PayneNeal BroomeNeal BroomeNeal BroomeNeal BroomeNeal Broome

Chuck LeeChuck LeeChuck LeeChuck LeeChuck Lee

Fragile Stone – Leading WorshipFragile Stone – Leading WorshipFragile Stone – Leading WorshipFragile Stone – Leading WorshipFragile Stone – Leading Worship

Parking is limited at OBC so anycarpooling from hotels to the Churchwill prove beneficial.

Three Shepherd Bags Distribution Team TripsRemaining for 2011 withEvangelistic InternationalMinistries Still Open!

by Fonda Norris,EIM Mission Coordinator

We still have three open dates todistribute Shepherd Bags in Hondu-ras. If a church would like to put ateam together, please contact MikeGoodwin at 870-234-5319 ormgoodwin@eimworldwide.org. Themaximum number of people per teamis five per group. Come join in a lifechanging adventure and be a part ofsomething great that God is doing inthe country of Honduras. For the dates,go to our website atwww.eimworldwide.org /schedule.

If questions, contact me. Thanks!

Need a projectfor VBS?

How about allowing your students totake an active role in world evangelism?

With EIM’s Shepherd Bags™, childrencan reach other children with the Gospelof Jesus Christ. Bags are placed in thehands of children in need around theglobe.

For more information on how yourchurch can get involved, contact FondaNorris at 870.226.3626 orfnorris@eimworldwide.org. Also visit ourwebsite at www.eimworldwide.org

Bethel, FultonBethel, FultonBethel, FultonBethel, FultonBethel, FultonBethel took their largest group ever

to the National Galilean Camp in Gary,Texas. Trent Ellis from Bethel wasnamed Senior Mr. Galilean and DrewWheeler was named National GalileanVP.

Several GMA'S & sponsors will betraveling to GMA camp next week.Junior Youth Camp will be June 20-22at Tishomingo State Park. Several willbe traveling to Ronald McDonaldHouse of Memphis to minister to thefamilies of the children receiving treat-ment atSt. Jude on June 25. "Connect" forSenior Youth, will be June 27-July 1 atPickwick. You are always welcome atBethel. If you are ever in the area,please stop by for a visit.

Pastor Dr. Martin JamesonReporter Martha Duncan

No adverse effects' report challengedOneNewsNow -OneNewsNow -OneNewsNow -OneNewsNow -OneNewsNow - A pro-family leader disagrees with a reportthat Pentagon officials have seen no adverse effects from thetraining of troops for the new law that will allow homosexu-als to serve openly in the military.

Recently the Pentagon announced that more than amillion troops, roughly half the armed forces, have beentrained on the new law that repeals the military's "don't ask,don't tell" policy. Military officials say they see no adverseimpact on the force so far; no widespread resistance, no madrush to the door by those opposed -- and, importantly, nodrop in recruiting.

But Robert Knight, a senior fellow/executive director atthe American Civil Rights Union, says they are mis-charac-terizing the process.

"A lot of troops have been trained in this new sensitivity

program -- and they're saying, 'Well, that's a success. Itshows it works.' Well, no it doesn't," he argues. "It just showspeople have had to undergo this training.

"They can't say anything about it because you can't reallyhave dissent in the military -- and nobody knows whether it'sworked or not," Knight continues. "My guess would be ithasn't worked. During the hearings in Congress, none of themilitary officials could come up with any reasons why itwould help the military. They just said they might be able tomanage the problems it causes."

Knight adds he would not be surprised if President Obamamoves ahead with certification of the new law during "LGBTPride Month" in order to pander to a tiny minority purely forpolitical considerations -- effectively ignoring the welfare ofthe troops.

7June 15, 2011 • Mississippi Baptist

CHILDREN'S HOME118 LOWE ROAD, LAUREL, MISSISSIPPI 39443 - (601) 426-3928

SIDNEY DAVISDIRECTOR

Recent Church VisitRecent Church VisitRecent Church VisitRecent Church VisitRecent Church VisitWe were with the Antioch

Baptist Church near Soso onSunday, May 15, where Bro.Robbie White is the pastor. Bro.Robbie was recovering from eyesurgery and I had the opportu-nity to bring the messages forthe Sunday morning andevening services. It was goodto be with this good church andrenew acquaintances withthem. Be in prayer or Bro.White as he recovers from thissurgery.

God Bless AmericaGod Bless AmericaGod Bless AmericaGod Bless AmericaGod Bless AmericaIn just a few weeks July 4th

will be upon us. On this day weas Americans have the oppor-tunity to once again be re-minded of the liberties and free-doms that we enjoy. All ofthese countless blessings are aresult of the goodness of ourgracious Heavenly Father.

Our country was born out ofa desire for religious freedom.Our amazing Constitution wasfounded upon the principles ofthe Ten Commandments. Andon our currency are engravedthe words “In God We Trust”.Thank God we still have theprivilege in this nation to wor-ship freely as we choose. Weare still able to pledge alle-

giance to the flag and still re-cite the pledge which says, “Onenation under God”.

One can still have theirdreams to come true inAmerica. Godhas showeredHis grace uponus with Hisa b u n d a n tmercy. He hasgranted us withBible-believ-ing, preaching,and practicingchurches allacross this land where the Gos-pel message is sent forth in allits purity.

There is no land likeAmerica! We are glad we arecitizens of this great republicand pledge our prayers to Godfor her that He will give herleaders with integrity and hercitizens will have a love for Godand country.

Remember in PrayerRemember in PrayerRemember in PrayerRemember in PrayerRemember in PrayerContinue to remember the

Home in your prayers throughthese summer months as thechildren participate in the ac-tivities that are ahead. We arethankful that the Lord contin-ues to shower His blessings onthe ministry of the Home.

Leave ItTo Cleaver

Tony Cleaver

Church Lessons from Exodus 13 and 14The story of the Exodus is

the central point of all the writ-ings of Moses regarding theHebrew people. Here a peoplewere liberated from slavery toform a new nation. That doesn'thappen very often. Let us re-member some of the highlightsof this story.

I see some parallels in this

story and the situations withmany churches as they call apastor, build a new structure,plan new outreach, add a staffmember, or many other things.Let me share some of thoseobvious lessons with you. Iknow an example does not al-ways fit 100% into any applica-tion. I am not calling anyonebad to make them like Pha-raoh, or trying to tell you whothe army is who drowned. I amsimply trying to encourage any

congregation as they wait onthe Lord to move with Hispeople.

1. God does not follow our road1. God does not follow our road1. God does not follow our road1. God does not follow our road1. God does not follow our roadmap or timetable or GPS. (Ex.map or timetable or GPS. (Ex.map or timetable or GPS. (Ex.map or timetable or GPS. (Ex.map or timetable or GPS. (Ex.13.17-18)13.17-18)13.17-18)13.17-18)13.17-18)

Congregations might feelthey have waited long enough,have a better map, or moreaccurate timetable. God followsHis plan and follows it well.

2. God puts us in His best2. God puts us in His best2. God puts us in His best2. God puts us in His best2. God puts us in His bestplace to accomplish His pur-place to accomplish His pur-place to accomplish His pur-place to accomplish His pur-place to accomplish His pur-pose. (Ex. 14.1-4)pose. (Ex. 14.1-4)pose. (Ex. 14.1-4)pose. (Ex. 14.1-4)pose. (Ex. 14.1-4)

"God where in the world didYou find this place? We need tobe in that place over there."

3. God's people sometimes lose3. God's people sometimes lose3. God's people sometimes lose3. God's people sometimes lose3. God's people sometimes losecourage. (Ex 14.10-12)courage. (Ex 14.10-12)courage. (Ex 14.10-12)courage. (Ex 14.10-12)courage. (Ex 14.10-12)

Yes, in the face of seeminglyoverwhelming circumstances,all of us are faint of heart. Wefind the ubiquitous they orthem to blame.

4. God's people need to be still4. God's people need to be still4. God's people need to be still4. God's people need to be still4. God's people need to be stillto see God's miracles. (Exto see God's miracles. (Exto see God's miracles. (Exto see God's miracles. (Exto see God's miracles. (Ex14.13-14)14.13-14)14.13-14)14.13-14)14.13-14)

Most of the time, I feel I needto do something to help God.The best way to let God help

me is to be still in His presence.

5. God will arrange and orga-5. God will arrange and orga-5. God will arrange and orga-5. God will arrange and orga-5. God will arrange and orga-nize His deliverance in an un-nize His deliverance in an un-nize His deliverance in an un-nize His deliverance in an un-nize His deliverance in an un-usual way. (Ex 14.19-20)usual way. (Ex 14.19-20)usual way. (Ex 14.19-20)usual way. (Ex 14.19-20)usual way. (Ex 14.19-20)

The Hebrew people had noidea what was coming. We inchurches cannot imagine themiracle God is preparing in ourcongregations.

6. God will deliver His people.6. God will deliver His people.6. God will deliver His people.6. God will deliver His people.6. God will deliver His people.(Ex 14.21-22)(Ex 14.21-22)(Ex 14.21-22)(Ex 14.21-22)(Ex 14.21-22)

Certainly to look back afterthe water is crossed and theenemy is dead, we can easilysay, "I knew it all the time!" Itis difficult to say that when thewater is to the left and right ofyou. Nevertheless, we lookback in history to have faith inthe future of those things wecannot see and rest in assur-ance God is at work in ourchurch.

Congregations must be stillto see the work of God in theirmidst. Don't lose courage; don'tbe frightened. Don't get angryat God because He is not doingwhat we want, when we wantit done. Trust Him to lead us tothe place we need to go - thebest place He has for us.

How To Be Sure We Are Savedby Dr. Grover LaidFulton, Mississippi

"... I know whom I have be-lieved, and am persuaded thathe is able to keep that which Ihave committed unto himagainst that day." (2 Timothy1:12)

The words of our text are thewords of the Apostle Paul. It israther obvious that he knewfor sure that he was saved andwhy. What was true of Paulcan also be true of all of us. Inthis message I will list threethings that should give us as-surance of salvation, if indeedwe are saved.

I. We Have Done What theI. We Have Done What theI. We Have Done What theI. We Have Done What theI. We Have Done What theBible Requires One to Do toBible Requires One to Do toBible Requires One to Do toBible Requires One to Do toBible Requires One to Do toBe SavedBe SavedBe SavedBe SavedBe Saved

The first thing that is re-quired in order to be saved is toopen one’s heart to the gospelof Christ. God uses the gospelof Christ, or the Good News ofChrist, to bring sinners to sal-vation--"For I am not ashamedof the gospel of Christ: for it isthe power of God unto salva-tion to everyone that believeth;to the Jew first, and also to theGreek." (Romans 1:16) In 1Corinthians 1:21 we are alsotold, "...it pleased God by the

foolishness of preaching to savethem that believe," One musttherefore open his ears andheart to that wonderful mes-sage of salvation in Jesus lesshe hinders God in bringing himto eternal life.

One must also repent towardGod and be-lieve on theLord JesusChrist. I putr e p e n t a n c eand faith to-gether becausethey are in-separable. Onecannot do oneof these with-out doing the other. When theHoly Spirit uses the gospel toconvince one that he is on thewrong road, serving the wrongmaster, and headed to thewrong place, it also points himto Jesus as his only hope fordeliverance. As he turns fromhis old sinner life, he turns toJesus to save him. This was theway Paul preached it-- "Testi-fying both to the Jews, and alsoto the Greeks, repentance to-ward God, and faith towardour Lord Jesus Christ." (Acts

20:21) Those who obey this gos-pel are saved. (II Thessalonians1:8)

Consider a few verses thatclearly teach that salvationcomes by faith in Jesus. As youread each verse, ask yourselfthe question, “Have I donethis?” “And they said, Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ, andthou shalt be saved, and thyhouse." (Acts 16:31) "That ifthou shalt confess with thymouth the Lord Jesus, andshalt believe in thine heart thatGod hath raised him from thedead, thou shalt be saved. Forwith the heart man believethunto righteousness; and withthe mouth confession is madeunto salvation." (Romans 10:9,10)

"But as many as receivedhim, to them gave he power tobecome the sons of God, even tothem that believe on his name:"(John 1:12)

"He that believeth on the Sonhath everlasting life: and hethat believeth not the Son shallnot see life; but the wrath ofGod abideth on him." (John3:36)

II. We Have Experienced WhatII. We Have Experienced WhatII. We Have Experienced WhatII. We Have Experienced WhatII. We Have Experienced WhatHappens When One GetsHappens When One GetsHappens When One GetsHappens When One GetsHappens When One GetsSavedSavedSavedSavedSaved

When one believes in Jesus

as his Savior, the Holy Spiritmoves in. This, within itself, isone of the greatest proofs thatone is saved--"Hereby know wethat we dwell in him, and he inus, because he hath given us ofhis Spirit." (1 John 4:13) Butmore than this, several thingshappen when the Holy Spiritcomes to abide in us. One ofthose things is, the love of Godfills us--"... the love of God isshed abroad in our hearts bythe Holy Ghost which is givenunto us." (Romans 5:5) Noth-ing feels better than to havethe love of God down deep inour heart. This love not onlymanifest itself toward God, butit also manifest itself towardHis house, (Psalm 122:1) andHis Word, (Psalm119:97) andHis people. (I John 3:14)

One of the clearest proofs ofsalvation is the fact that thislove does indeed manifest it-self toward God’s people. Whenone is lost, he feels comfortablein the presence of the unsavedand uncomfortable in the pres-ence of the saved. When he issaved, he feels comfortable withthe saved and out of place with

the unsaved. Here is how Johnsays it--"We know that we havepassed from death unto life,because we love the brethren.He that loveth not his brotherabideth in death." (1 John 3:14;See also 1 John 4:12)

This love also manifest itselftoward sinners. Often timeswhen a person is saved heimmediately expresses inter-est in a friend who is unsaved.Paul is a good example--"...Iam made all things to all men,that I might by all means savesome." (1 Corinthians 9:22; Seealso Acts 26:19.20)

Another thing the Spirit doesthat assures us that we havebeen saved is, He brings peaceto our heart. When the gospelmessage troubles one’s heartover his condition and need, ifhe turns to Jesus peace comesinto his heart--"Come unto me,all ye that labour and are heavyladen, and I will give you rest."(Matthew 11:28) This peace ofGod “passeth all understand-ing,” (Philippians 4:7)

The Spirit also brings joy

Grover Laird

continued on page 8continued on page 8continued on page 8continued on page 8continued on page 8

8 June 15, 2011 • Mississippi Baptist

Sofilthy's Atticby Barbara White

The TThe TThe TThe TThe TongueongueongueongueongueIn a Bible Study Group that I attended the other day, the subject was "the

tongue". It's just like a nose or an opinion - we all have one.Of course, our study was centered on the wise use of thatlittle piece of flesh.Out study brought back a memory of a man whom I knewyears ago. He used his tongue incessantly. He never let itrest and sometimes, it veered from the truth. My observa-tion is that if you talk that much you are bound to run out oftruth sooner or later.The memory behooves to "tame" that critter, always speak-ing truth.The writer of Proverbs mentions the tongue frequently. Iespecially like Proverbs 12:19, “The lip of truth shall be

established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.”

'Go Forth' ministers in HondurasFrom June 3-11, a 20-member Go Forth Ministries team finished a nine day

mission trip to Santa Barbara, Honduras, with 242 professions of faith. In thehottest June in 11 years, they witnessed in the streets five days and visited sixschools in SantaBarbara andGauljoquito, Hon-duras and a militarybase in Pinalejo,Honduras, openingdoors for missionar-ies Bro. ArnolMaldonado of SantaBarbara and Bro.Lenin Perdoma ofQuimistan, Hondu-ras, to establishBible studies inthese areas.

Plans are alsounder way to estab-lish a missionchurch inGauljoquito village.

A series of services were held at La Iglasis Bautista Lan Gran Comision withBro. Coy Rice of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Saucier, Bro. Donald Hilbun ofHeritage Baptist Church of Woolmarket, Bro. John Mills of Pineview MissionaryBaptist Church in Lucedale and Bro. Jonathan Williamson of Sandhill BaptistChurch in Lucedale preaching.

Go Forth Ministries is under the direction of Bro. Donald Hilbun of Lucedale.Go Forth Ministries and BEAMS presented Missionaries Bro. Arnol Maldonadoof Santa Barbara and Bro. Lenin Perdoma of Quimistan with 300 much neededReina Valera Bibles (King James Version equivalent in Spanish).

The Go Honduras Christmas (trip) of December 2010 had 230 professions offaith.

Go Forth Ministries plans a crusade in Phil Campbell, Alabama, on June 13-19 to feed over 700 tornado victims at each meal and to spread the Gospel and twomore crusades and mission trips to Honduras in September and December. Formore information visit the website http://goforthmin.tripod.com/ or contact Bro.Donald Hilbun at 601-508- 5784.

Go Forth Ministries’ mission statement is Psalm 126:6 “He that goeth forthand weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing.”

Bro. Samael Barhona, left, translates as Bro. Don Hilbun comparesChristian life to military life at the military base in Pinalejo where 17soldiers made professions of faith.

Bill Dees,Master's Builder, Dies

Billy Wayne ‘Bill’ Dees, 70 of Magno-lia, Arkansas, died June 1 after a shortbattle with cancer. He had served withthe Master¹s Builders since 2004 andtook over as field coordinator after RoyTilley stepped down due to ill health in2008.

Bro. Dees’ last job with the Builderswas last October at Macedonia BaptistChurch in Magno-lia. He was diag-nosed with lungcancer a few dayslater. “Bill waswell respected byhis Master’sBuilders cowork-ers and will bemissed by all whoknew and lovedhim,” said EddieSikes, former BMA of Arkansas Mis-sions building superintendent who suc-ceeded Bro. Dees. ”His shoes will behard to fill.”

He was a member of First BaptistChurch in Magnolia and was also a re-tired maintenance supervisor forAlbemarle Corporation.

Survivors include his wife, Anita Dees,also a Master’s Builder; a daughter,Tonya Morrison; a son, Timothy Dees;and four grandchildren, all of Magnolia.

Funeral services were held June 4 atFirst Baptist Church in Magnolia withDavid Watkins and Roger Dunlap offici-ating. Interment was at Memorial ParkCemetery under the direction of LewisFuneral Home, Inc. of Magnolia. Memo-rials may be made to the First BaptistChurch, P.O. Box 456, Magnolia, AR71754; or to the John R. WilliamsonHospice House, 2301 Champagnolle Rd.,El Dorado, AR 71730.

-courtesy of Baptist Trumpet

when we get saved. It is called the joyof our salvation. (Psalm 51:12) TheBible often mentions this joy when itspeaks of one being saved. (Psalm 40:1-3; Acts 8:5-8; 8:39; 16:34) If no joy cameinto one’s heart when he thought hegot saved, he is surely mistaken aboutbeing saved. Joy always comes intoone’s heart when Jesus comes into hisheart

The Spirit also makes one a newperson when he gets saved. (IICorinthian 5:17) He is actually bornagain of the Spirit. (John 3:3-8) Thisnew birth is a “washing of regenera-tion.” that gives us a clean feeling.(Titus 3:5) When we realize that thishas happen to us we can know that weare saved.

The Spirit actually tells us that weare saved. When one is lost the HolySpirit tells him that he is lost. Sinnersget disturbed about being lost becausethe Holy Spirit has caused them torealize that they are lost. After onecomes to Jesus for salvation the Spiritchanges His message. He is now say-

ing, “You are saved.” Here is a versethat says this-- “The Spirit itselfbeareth witness with our spirit, thatwe are the children of God:" (Romans8:16)

After one is saved the Holy Spiritgives special help in living the Chris-tian life. This helps one to know thathe is saved. He helps us to pray, (Jude20) study the Bible, (John 14:26) andwitness for Christ. (Acts 1:8) This ishelp that one only experiences afterthat he is saved.

Maybe I should say, many of thethings that the Spirit works in ourlives when we get saved does not con-tinue as strong as they were at thefirst. Whether things like love, joy andpeace continue as strong as they wereat the first will depend upon our faith-fulness to the Lord. For an example:when we get saved the Spirit shedsabroad God’s love in our heart. But itis up to us if it continues strong--"Letbrotherly love continue." (Hebrews13:1)

III. Because the Bible Tells Us We AreLet me explain what I mean. There

are verses of Scripture that promiseseternal life to any person who will docertain things. If we know that wehave done that, or experienced that,we can therefore put our finger on thatverse and claim the promise of salva-tion. (The Holy Spirit that bears wit-ness with our spirit can help us toknow, Romans 8:16.)

The Bible says, "He that hath theSon hath life; and he that hath not theSon of God hath not life." (1 John 5:12)If we know that we have received Jesusinto our heart, and know that He livesin us, we can put our finger on thatverse and claim the promise of God’sWord that we are saved.

The Bible says, "For whosoever shallcall upon the name of the Lord shall besaved." (Romans 10:13) If we knowthat we have called upon the Lord forsalvation in the right way, we canknow that we are saved. (I must sayhere, the Lord doesn’t count our faith,or repentance, or calling upon Himunless it is with all of our heart, Ro-mans 10:9, 10.)

The Bible says, "But as many asreceived him, to them gave he power tobecome the sons of God, even to themthat believe on his name:" (John 1:12)If we know that we have received Jesusinto our heart as our Savior, on thebases of this verse we can know forsure that we are saved.

The Bible says, "... I know whom Ihave believed, and am persuaded thathe is able to keep that which I havecommitted unto him against that day."(2 Timothy 1:12) If we are sure wehave turned our sin problem and eter-nal destiny over to the Lord, we canput our finger on that verse and claimthe promise of salvation.

Someone once said, “The greatestblessing of salvation in this life, is theassurance that we have it.” One thingwe do know is, assurance of salvationis indeed a “Blessed Assurance.”

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