31 May, 2007
Lawsuit over 'Brokeback Mountain' in class
CHICAGO -- A girl and her grandparents have sued the Chicago Board of Education, alleging that a substitute teacher showed the R-rated film "Brokeback Mountain" in class.
The lawsuit claims that Jessica Turner, 12, suffered psychological distress after viewing the movie in her 8th grade class at Ashburn Community Elementary School last year.
The film, which won three Oscars, depicts two cowboys who conceal their homosexual affair.
Turner and her grandparents, Kenneth and LaVerne Richardson, are seeking around $500,000 in damages.
"It is very important to me that my children not be exposed to this," said Kenneth Richardson, Turner's guardian. "The teacher knew she was not supposed to do this."
According to the lawsuit filed Friday in Cook County Circuit Court, the video was shown without permission from the students' parents and guardians.
The lawsuit also names Ashburn Principal Jewel Diaz and a substitute teacher, referred to as "Ms. Buford."
The substitute asked a student to shut the classroom door at the West Side school, saying: "What happens in Ms. Buford's class stays in Ms. Buford's class," according to the lawsuit.
Richardson said his granddaughter was traumatized by the movie and had to undergo psychological treatment and counseling.
"I feel the lawsuit was necessary because of the warning I had already given them on the literature they were giving out to children to read. I told them it was against our faith."
Messages left with CPS officials were not immediately returned.
photo & story courtesy ctv.ca.com, 5/14/07
God's Truth never breaks or bends.
Romans 1:22-28 (NLT)
22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. 23 And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.
24 So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. 25 They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. 26 That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. 27 And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.
28 Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done.
What does God's Story scripture teach us about God's view on homosexuality?
Paul was led by God's Spirit to write down God's views on homosexuality. It was as common in Paul's day as it is in our world today.
In plain words - God says it is sin.
Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain:
1:26-27 God is willing to receive anyone who comes to him in faith, and Christians should love and accept others no matter what their background. Yet, homosexuality is strictly forbidden in Scripture (Leviticus 18:22). Homosexuality is considered an acceptable practice by many in our world today - even by some churches. But society does not set the standard for God's law. Homosexuals believe that their desires are normal and that they have a right to express them. But God does not encourage us to fulfill all our desires (even normal ones). Those desires that violate his laws must be controlled.
If you have these desires, you can and must resist acting upon them....Remember, God can and will forgive sexual sins just as he forgives other sins. Surrender yourself to God, asking him to show you the way out of sin and into the light of his freedom and his love.
Today's story about the teacher showing 'Brokeback Mountain' to her class illustrates how our secular culture is bent on bending the Truth of God's Word. But remember that even though culture says times have changed and that there is no absolute truth, God's Word never changes and it is the Truth.
Our challenge as followers of Christ is to humbly admit our many sins as we try to lovingly help those struggling with homosexuality let Jesus rescue them.
- Thank God for being very clear in His Word about what is right and wrong sexually. Ask God to help you live out your sexuality (which means purity before marriage between a man and a woman and then only in marriage) to honor Him. If you are sinning in a sexual way, confess it now and receive the forgiveness made possible because of what Christ did on the cross. If you know someone who is struggling with homosexuality, pray for him or her and ask God to help you demonstrate Christ's grace and compassion toward this person.
- Pray that you and other Christians around the world will act like Jesus toward those who struggle with homosexuality.
- If you struggle with this issue (or know someone else who does), contact a pastor or youth leader of a church that believes in the truth of God's Word.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Use today's story about the teacher showing 'Brokeback Mountain' in her class as a conversation with others to find out their story as it relates to their views on homosexuality and tolerance.
- Talk with other students about what you might do to take a Biblical stand for morality in our culture with an attitude of love rather than condemnation. Look for ways you can demonstrate grace and compassion to those who are struggling with homosexuality.
- Talk to your youth leader or pastor about what your church can do to be like Jesus toward those who are struggling with homosexuality.
30 May, 2007
Out of it & back to rehab
The party may finally be over for Lindsay Lohan.
The star-crossed starlet is headed back to rehab, In Touch Weekly magazine reported last night, after a wild Memorial Day weekend in which she crashed her car, was busted for DUI and was later photographed passed out in a car.
"She finally realizes it's the right thing to do," In Touch quoted a friend of the actress as saying. "She is going willingly."
Ironically, the photos show a medallion dangling in front of the slumbering star from the rear-view mirror. It reads "30 Days" - a reference to the number of days of sobriety.
One photo shows Lohan out of the car and on her knees, being watched over by two unidentified men as she seems to vomit on the sidewalk.
The actress' early morning antics came on the same weekend she was cited for driving under the influence after crashing her Mercedes convertible in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Investigators found what they believed to be cocaine in the car after the accident, which happened around 5:30 a.m. Saturday after a night of club crawling.
Cops said Lohan could face additional charges when she appears in court Aug. 24.
It's the latest in a series of increasingly out-of-control episodes for the young actress.
The actress' friends are hoping the tumultuous weekend will serve as a wake-up call.
"It's a tough time for her right now," said a close friend, who asked not to be identified. "Everyone is hoping that this is a learning lesson to all."
photo courtesy ap & story nydailynews.com, 5/29/07
She needs help!
Psalm 34:17-19 (NLT)
17 The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help.
He rescues them from all their troubles.
18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;
he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
19 The righteous person faces many troubles,
but the Lord comes to the rescue each time.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about crying out to God for help when we "hit rock bottom"?
Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes provide this insight:
34:18, 19 We often wish we could escape troubles - the pain of grief, loss, sorrow, and failure, or even the small daily frustrations that constantly wear us down. God promises to be "close to the brokenhearted" and to be our source of power, courage, and wisdom, helping us through our problems. Sometimes he chooses to deliver us from those problems. When trouble strikes, don't get frustrated with God. Instead, admit that you need God's help and thank him for being by your side.
While we don't know what Lindsay Lohan believes about God, we do know that she seems to be doing the right thing by admitting that she has problems and needs help...again.
You may need to do the same. If you remember to trust God, our Rock, you may not have to hit rock bottom.
But if you do, our loving Father will hear your cry and meet your need.
- Thank God that He alone is the Rock of our salvation, our strength, our hope, our loving Father. Be honest. If you have hit rock bottom, admit that to Him right now and let Him show you His unconditional love and amazing help. If you're doing well, praise God and admit to Him that you must and will depend on Him in every way, every day.
- Memorize today's scripture. It will be a constant reminder of God's love and strength in your daily life.
- If you are struggling with alcohol, drugs, an eating disorder, sexual addiction or something else that is crushing you, contact a Christian friend, youth leader, or pastor and ask for help today.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Use the latest Lindsay Lohan headline to start conversations with friends and family members who are hurting with some outcomes of poor choices.
- If you know someone who is struggling with a "rock bottom" lifestyle, pray for God to give you the opportunity, courage, and love that you need to talk to him or her. Remember to ask questions that allow them to share their story. Listen carefully. You don't have to have all the answers but by showing that you care, you will be communicating your story and God's Story.
- For resources, go to: http://www.christians-in-recovery.com/resources/hotlines.html
- Pray for Lindsay Lohan to know and trust the truth of God's Story in her life.
29 May, 2007
Hancock's father sues over pitcher's death
The suit, filed in St. Louis Circuit Court by Dean Hancock of Tupelo, Miss., does not specify damages. Mike Shannon's Restaurant, owned by the longtime Cardinals broadcaster who starred on three World Series teams in the 1960s, is a defendant in the case along with Shannon's daughter, Patricia Shannon Van Matre, the restaurant manager.
Other defendants include Eddie's Towing, the company whose flatbed tow truck was struck by Hancock's sport utility vehicle in the early hours of April 29; tow truck driver Jacob Edward Hargrove; and Justin Tolar, the driver whose stalled car on Interstate 64 was being assisted by Hargrove.
Authorities said the 29-year pitcher had a blood content of nearly twice the legal limit for alcohol in his system when he crashed into the back of the tow truck. He was also speeding, using a cell phone and wasn't wearing a seat belt, Police Chief Joe Mokwa said after the accident. Marijuana also was found in the SUV.
A person answering phones at the restaurant declined comment.
The lawsuit claimed Tolar was negligent in allowing his vehicle to reach the point where it stalled on the highway, and for failing to move it out of the way of oncoming traffic. A police report said the car became stalled when it spun out after being cut off by another vehicle.
Police said Hargrove noticed the stalled vehicle and stopped to help. The report said he told officers he was there five to seven minutes before his truck was hit by Hancock's SUV. But Kantack said the tow truck may have been there up to 15 minutes, yet failed to get the stalled vehicle out of the way.
"Were the police contacted?" Kantack asked. "Why weren't flares put out? Why was the tow truck there for an exorbitant amount of time?"
Dean Hancock said in a statement that the "facts and circumstances" of Josh's death "have caused great pain to all of Josh's family." As administrator of his son's estate, Dean Hancock said he has an obligation to represent the family on all issues, "including any legal actions necessary against those who contributed to the untimely and unnecessary death."
photo courtesy images.google.com & story foxsports.com, 5/25/07
It's not my fault!
James 1:12-16
12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. 14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. 15 Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about taking responsibility for our own actions?
Tyndale's LIFE APLLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain it this way:
1:13-15 It is easy to blame others and make excuses for evil thoughts and wrong actions. We use excuses such as: (1) It's the other person's fault; (2) I couldn't help it; (3) everybody's doing it; (4) it was just a mistake; (5) nobody's perfect; (6) the devil made me do it; (7) I was pressured into it; (8) I didn't know it was wrong; or (9) God is tempting me. A person who makes excuses is trying to shift the blame from himself or herself to something or someone else. A Christian, on the other hand, should accept responsibility for his or her wrongs; confess them, and ask God for forgiveness.
You and I may shake our heads in disbelief at today's story of the grieving dad suing others for the death of his drunken son. But if we're honest, we all make excuses for our sins.
No more "blame game". We're not victims. In the name of Jesus, let's confess our sin and let Christ give us a fresh start!
- Ask Jesus to help you be totally honest with yourself and Him. What kind of excuses have you been making about sin in your life? Have you been playing the role of victim? Have you been blaming other people or circumstances? Whatever they are, Jesus will forgive you right now because He died on the cross to pay the penalty for those sins. Confess and receive His loving forgiveness. Thank Jesus for giving you a second, third, sixty-sixth chance to have a fresh start in living for Him.
- Read today's passage several more times this week and listen to God's Spirit teach you through His Word and love.
- Be totally vulnerable with Jesus and write a note to Him that honestly identifies (He already knows, but this is for you) some sins that you constantly struggle with. Be specific about the excuses you use to rationalize these sins. Ask Jesus to make the necessary changes in your life. Every day, for the next 30 days, read the note aloud to Jesus. Evaluate after one month. Get ready to really praise Jesus!
How can we connect today's story and God's Story and our story to others?
- Share what you learned today or in the upcoming 30-day exercise with another follower of Christ.
- Think about someone in your storysphere who is really interested in God's Story but is processing the truth that our sin is a problem now and forever. Share today's story about Josh Hancock's dad suing others for the death of his son. Ask your not-yet-a-follower of Christ friend what they think about this law suit? Listen for his or her response and to Jesus for what to ask or say next. Be ready to share your story - how you had to recognize your own responsibility for your sin keeping you from God. Be honest about how often you have to thank God for being patient with you until you stop playing the blame game. Talk about how God loves you so much that He always forgives you and gives you a fresh start.
21 May, 2007
Sharing A Story...
Amputees Across America (AAA) is the brainchild of Joe Sapere who lost his leg following a skydiving accident when he was 60. On his way to recovery, he discovered the need for greater support and information for those facing amputation. So, in 2001, Joe founded Amputees Across America, a transcontinental bicycle and skydiving tour that visits rehabilitation hospitals to deliver resource information and establishes a nationwide peer support network.
The mission remains the same: to perspire so that others may aspire; to give hope to other amputees so that they, too, can lead active and fulfilling lives; to prove that ordinary people can, indeed, do extra ordinary things. While visiting rehab facilities and hospitals, the amputee ambassadors touch the hearts and lives of those who are suffering and deliver a potent message: Never Give Up.
photo & text courtesy amputeesacrossamerica.com
"I know how you feel..."
Romans 8:28
28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5
God of All Comfort
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. (ESV)
Do you remember the DAILYBIDES from the past few days? We found out from Paul that God causes everything to work for our "good". That "good" is that God wants us to glorify Him as we become more and more like Jesus Christ.
One of those "good" results is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN TEACH US. Remember, God's purpose is to make us Holy, not happy.
Another "good" is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN GLORIFY GOD THROUGH US. When Christians personally apply the truths of who God is, in their lives, God is glorified through the pain and suffering of His children.
PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN PURIFY US. The trials that we face in life are part of the process that God uses to refine us by "fire". If we respond to the "fire" by trusting God, our faith is strengthened and we become useful to serve God.
God's discipline proves that He loves us even more than we understand. PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN MATURE US. Our loving Father uses it to help us grow up to be more like Jesus Christ.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about another "good" that can come out of the "bad" in life?
Paul is teaching us that when we trust God to comfort us, PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN EQUIP US TO COMFORT OTHERS. God doesn't always remove our troubles, but He will always provide comfort through His strength and hope. Remember that whenever we endure life's hard times, God is equipping us to some day bring His comfort to others who experience similar troubles.
The people who are involved in "Amputees Across America" are bringing comfort and hope to others who are just beginning the same journey.
Perhaps God is waiting for you to bring comfort to someone. Some day, you may need comfort from someone who has "been there and done that".
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God that though He will not keep you from all pain and suffering, He will never leave you alone with your problems. Praise Him for being in control, infinite in wisdom, and that His love for you is perfect! Ask Him for the faith you need to trust Him when you are tested. Let God know of your desire to let Him teach you about Himself. Ask Jesus to help you glorify Him in tough times. Ask God's Spirit to point out to you any impurities in your life that you need to confess and then thank Jesus for His forgiveness. Thank God that He will use pain and suffering to discipline you to grow in spiritual maturity. Ask God to show you opportunities to bring comfort to someone else who is facing a difficult challenge that you've already faced with God's love and strength.
- Pray regularly for the opportunity to bring comfort to someone else who is facing a difficult challenge that God has already helped you face.
- Write down examples of how God has brought comfort into your life at needed times. Thank Him again! Let it remind you of lessons learned that you can pass on to others.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Talk to your youth leader, pastor or another Christian friend about what you've written down above and ask for their input and prayer.
- Share with someone what you are learning in this DAILYBIDE series on seeing God's "good" in the "bad" of life.
- Watch for the times when the stories of others give you an opportunity to provide comfort because you have or are experiencing a similar challenge in life.
18 May, 2007
Hilton's Jail Time Cut To About 23 Days
LOS ANGELES -- Paris Hilton will serve about half of her 45-day jail sentence and will be separated from the general inmate population, authorities said Wednesday.
The hotel heiress will spend about 23 days in a "special needs housing unit" at the Century Regional Detention Center in suburban Lynwood, Los Angeles County sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore said.
Her sentence was shortened after jail officials gave her credit for good behavior, Whitmore said. Officials considered several factors in calculating the credit, including that she appeared for her latest court date, he said.
Hilton, 26, was sentenced to jail last week for violating the terms of her probation in an alcohol-related reckless driving case. A judge ordered her to report to the women's jail in Lynwood by June 5.
Hilton's fans posted a petition on the Internet urging Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to pardon her.
photo courtesy ap & story hollywoodreporter.com, 5/16/07
A little punishment for Paris
Romans 8:28 (NLT)
28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Hebrews 12:5-11 (NLT)
5 And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said,
“My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and don’t give up when he corrects you.
6 For the Lord disciplines those he loves,
and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.”
7 As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? 8 If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. 9 Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?
10 For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. 11 No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.
In the recent DAILYBIDES we found out from Paul that God causes everything to work for our "good". That "good" is that God wants us to glorify Him as we become more and more like Jesus Christ. Let's review:
One of those "good" results is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN TEACH US. Remember, God's purpose is to make us Holy, not happy. He wants us to learn that He is completely in control, infinite in wisdom and perfect in His love for us!
Another "good" is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN GLORIFY GOD THROUGH US. When Christians personally apply the truths of Who God is, in their lives, God is glorified through the pain and suffering of His children.
PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN PURIFY US. The trials that we face in life are part of the process that God uses to purify us by "fire". Tough times often get our attention. God wants us to be honest and admit any impurities in our lives that need to be removed. If we respond to the "fire" by trusting God, our faith is strengthened and we become useful to serve God.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about another "good" result that comes from pain and suffering?
If earthly parents love their children, they will correct, train and even punish them to help them learn what is right. God is the perfect Heavenly Father and His love for us is perfect. His discipline is never pleasant. In fact, sometimes He uses pain and suffering to teach us His ways and reveal His perfect plan for our lives.
Today's story about Paris Hilton getting a little jail time illustrates how we often respond to discipline. Paris was going to appeal her sentence and her fans tried to get Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to pardon her. Do you think Paris will ever grow up?
How about you and me? Are we willing to trust God to help us grow up spiritually? God's discipline proves that He loves us even more than we understand.
Ask Him to help you see that even PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN MATURE US.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God that though He will not keep you from all pain and suffering, He will never leave you alone with your problems. Praise Him for being in control, infinite in wisdom, and that His love for you is perfect! Ask Him for the faith you need to trust Him when you are tested. Let God know of your desire to let Him teach you about Himself. Ask Jesus to help you glorify Him in tough times. Ask God's Spirit to point out to you any impurities in your life that you need to confess and then thank Jesus for His forgiveness. Thank God that He will use pain and suffering to discipline you to grow in spiritual maturity.
- Whenever you experience "discipline" from a parent, teacher, coach, or boss, let it remind you that God loves you so much that He disciplines you.
- Read today's scripture again. It is a truth from God's Word to help you respond God's way to tough times.
- For one month, write down examples of how you see God using life's difficulties to discipline you to become more mature in your relationship with God.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Talk to your youth leader, pastor or another Christ follower about what you are learning in this series on tough times and ask for their prayer for you to apply it and live it.
- Use today's story about Paris Hilton getting some jail time as a conversation starter with someone in your storysphere. Ask him or her if they think Paris will grow up through this punishment? Share how God uses tough times in your life to help you grow up.
17 May, 2007
Florida and Georgia still battle wildfires
Crist and Maj. Gen. Douglas Burnett of the Florida National Guard emphasized that the Guard has about 11,000 soldiers available and has enough equipment, such as trucks and helicopters, to help Florida through the wildfire season.
Georgia officials issued a mandatory evacuation in southern Charlton County including the town of Moniac, saying homes may be in the path of the state's largest recorded wildfire by early Thursday. It has burned 107,360 acres - or 167 square miles - of forest and swampland.
The fire has blackened 16,000 to 18,000 acres and was 35 percent contained.
The governor said 220 fires totaling 80,000 acres - or 125 square miles - were burning Wednesday in Florida. Wildfires have destroyed three homes in the Panhandle and three more in southwest Florida so far this week and consumed 74,000 acres since January, Crist said.
Overcast skies, milder winds and high humidity in southeast Georgia slowed the spread of the state's largest ever wildfire. It has been burning for more than three weeks. It started April 16 when a tree fell on a power line near Waycross, Ga.
Last weekend, lightning strikes sparked a second large fire in Okefenokee that had grown to more than 40,130 acres Wednesday, a day after it crossed the Georgia state line and spread into northern Florida.
Part of Florida's Turnpike in central Florida also was closed throughout the day. The Bay County Sheriff's Office closed the bridge on U.S. 98 connecting Panama City and Panama City Beach because of smoke from wildfires.
photo courtesy getty images & story miamiherald.com, 5/9/07
Purity through fire
Romans 8:28 (NLT)
28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
1 Peter 1:6-7 (NLT)
6 So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. 7 These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.
We're spending several days looking at the "good" that God brings out of bad.
Do you remember the DAILYBIDES from the past few days? We found out from Paul that God causes everything to work for our "good". That "good" is that God wants us to glorify Him as we become more and more like Jesus Christ.
One of those "good" results is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN TEACH US. Remember, God's purpose is to make us Holy, not happy. He wants us to learn that He is completely in control, infinite in wisdom and perfect in His love for us!
Another "good" is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN GLORIFY GOD THROUGH US. When followers of Christ personally apply the truths of who God is, in their lives, God is glorified through the pain and suffering of His children.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about a "good" result that can come out of pain and suffering?
Peter talks a lot about suffering in his writings. In today's scripture, Peter uses the illustration of fire to teach us about God's plan to purify us and make sure that we are strong.
The trials that we face in life are part of the process that God uses to purify us by "fire". If we respond by trusting God, our faith is strengthened and we become useful to serve God.
Today's story about the fires in Florida and Georgia is sad, but there is something good that often comes as a result of a forest fire. Though it takes years, new growth dominates the landscape after the forest brush has been burned away.
Life's trials are difficult and sad, but God can use them to clean up our lives and bring about new growth.
God wants us to be honest and admit any impurities in our lives that need to be removed. Remember that God wants us to become more like Jesus - Holy!
Another "good" that God makes out of the bad in life is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN PURIFY US and stimulate new growth.
So when the heat gets turned up, remember to turn to God. He loves us and has a perfect plan for each of us.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God that though He will not keep you from all pain and suffering, He will never leave you alone with your problems. Ask Him for the faith you need to trust Him when you are tested. Ask God's Spirit to point out to you any impurities in your life that you need to confess and then thank Jesus for His forgiveness. Thank God that He will use pain and suffering to purify your life so that you can be strong in your faith and serve Him more effectively.
- Whenever you see fire, thank God that He will use the "fire" of life to purify you.
- Memorize today's scripture. It is a truth from God's Word to help you respond God's way to pain and suffering.
- Write down whatever problems you are currently facing. Every day this week, go to God in prayer about them and ask Him to use them to teach you about His love and plan for your life.
- Talk to your youth leader, pastor or another Christian friend about what you've written down and ask for their prayer.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Do you have a friend who is a Christ follower and in the middle of tough times? If you think that today's DAILYBIDE could encourage them, send it to him or her. BUT, make sure that this friend is beyond the shock and initial grief in their difficult experience.
- When someone in your storysphere, who is not a Christ follower, experiences pain and suffering, pray for him or her. Pray also for Jesus to show you how to care for this person in their difficult situation. You may need to just be there and listen or cry with them for a long time. At some point, as you abide in Jesus, His Spirit will prompt you what to say and when to say it.
- Use this DAILYBIDE as a study guide with your small group or youth group.
16 May, 2007
Chelsey is paralyzed and blind, but still glorifying God!
Chelsey (center) with youth pastor and with friends at prom
The fact that Chelsey Junker, from Mt. Lake, Minnesota, recently attended her school prom and is about to graduate is nothing short of a miracle from God! Jesus took Chelsey to prom and she takes Him with her everywhere she goes.
In January 2005, Chelsey was in a snowmobile accident. Surviving the trauma of major brain injuries and a severed spinal chord, Chelsey returned home after seven months in a hospital. Chelsey is paralyzed from the chest down and is unable to see. She has made incredible progress in her speech and the use of her arms. Chelsey's sweet spirit, sense of humor, and most of all - her love for Christ - blesses everyone who meets her!
I know this first hand, because I had the privilege of being one of the pastors at Chelsey's church.
One of my memories of Chelsey "dancing" with Jesus took place during in our church during a sharing time in a worship service. Chelsey raised her hand and waved for our attention. Our youth pastor went to Chelsey and held the mic in front of her. In her quiet voice, she said, "I praise God that I'm alive."
To say that tears filled the room is putting mildly. To say that God filled our hearts with His love and our minds with His truth is putting it clearly! Once again, we were all reminded that God loves us and has a perfect plan and purpose for each of us. He alone is worthy of all our praise!
What do you need to praise God for today? In what problem do you need to trust God? Even though life is often hard to understand and you can't see the future...God does.
Thank you Chelsey!
Praise Him when life is painful?
Jesus takes Chelsey to prom!
Romans 8:28
28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Ephesians 1:11-12
11 In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12 so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about a "good" result that can come out of pain and suffering?
We are currently spending several days looking at the "good" that God brings out of bad.
Do you remember the DAILYBIDES from the past couple of days? We found out from Paul that God causes everything to work for our "good". That "good" is that God wants us to glorify Him as we become more and more like Jesus Christ.
One of those "good" results is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN TEACH US. Remember, God's purpose is to make us Holy, not happy. He wants us to learn that He is completely in control, infinite in wisdom and perfect in His love for us!
Another "good" result is that PAIN AND SUFFERING CAN GLORIFY GOD THROUGH US.
Chelsey and her family members have trusted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. The family has experienced incredible pain but they are demonstrating incredible faith. They keep saying that God is in control and has a purpose in this tragedy. The Junker family knows God's love is perfect and they trust Him even though they don't like their circumstances and have days when they feel like they can't go on.
At the same time they are praying like crazy for God to heal and restore Chelsey completely. Do you see it? God is being glorified by the faith of the Junker family!
When followers of Jesus personally apply the truths of who God is in their lives, God is glorified through the pain and suffering of His children.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God that though He will not keep you from all pain and suffering, He will never leave you alone with your problems. Praise Him for being in control, infinite in wisdom and that His love for you is perfect! Ask Him for the faith you need to trust Him when you are tested. Let Him know of your desire to become mature in Christ. Ask for the Spirit's power in you to enable you to glorify Him when you experience pain and suffering.
- Memorize today's scripture. It is a truth from God's Word to help you respond God's way to pain and suffering.
- Write down whatever problems you are currently facing. They may not be as terrible as what Chelsey is going through, but that's ok, because they're painful to you and your loving Father wants you to come to Him. Every day this week, go to God in prayer about them and ask Him to use them to teach you about His love and plan for your life.
- Talk to your youth leader, pastor or another Christian friend about what you've written down and ask for their input and prayer.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story and our story with others?
- Pray for Chelsey Junker and her family - for healing, strength and patience.
- Do you have a friend who is a Christ follower and in the middle of tough times? If you think that today's DAILYBIDE could encourage them, send it to him or her. BUT, make sure that this friend is beyond the shock and initial grief in their difficult experience.
- When someone in your storysphere, who is not a Christ follower, experiences pain and suffering, pray for him or her. Pray also for Jesus to show you how to care for this person in their difficult situation. You may need to just be there and listen or cry with them for a long time. At some point, as you abide in Jesus, His Spirit will prompt you what to say and when to say it.
- Use this DAILYBIDE as a study guide with your small group or youth group.
10 May, 2007
Police: Hancock drunk at time of crash
St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Josh Hancock was drunk and talking on his cell phone at the time of his fatal accident, and marijuana was found in the sport utility vehicle he was driving.
Hancock's blood-alcohol level was 0.157, nearly twice Missouri's legal limit of 0.08, Graham said.
An accident reconstruction team determined Hancock was traveling 68 mph in a 55 mph zone when his SUV struck the back of a flatbed tow truck stopped in a driving lane. Mokwa said there was no evidence Hancock tried to stop. He did swerve, but too late to avoid the collision.
Mokwa said Hancock was speaking with a female acquaintance about baseball and baseball tickets and that the conversation ended abruptly, apparently when the accident occurred. A police report said Hancock told the female acquaintance he was on his way to another bar, and that he planned to meet her there.
Hancock, a key bullpen member on the World Series championship team last season, was driving alone.
"I think it's probably a wakeup call to everybody," general manager Walt Jocketty said at a news conference at Busch Stadium. "The one thing they have to understand is they're not invincible. They have to conduct themselves and make better decisions. Unfortunately, Josh didn't make very good decisions that night."
photo courtesy images.google.com & story foxsports.com, 5/9/07
Choose wisely
Proverbs 3:21-26
21 My son, do not lose sight of these—
keep sound wisdom and discretion,
22 and they will be life for your soul
and adornment for your neck.
23 Then you will walk on your way securely,
and your foot will not stumble.
24 If you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
25 Do not be afraid of sudden terror
or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes,
26 for the Lord will be your confidence
and will keep your foot from being caught. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about our need for Godly wisdom?
Wisdom is one of the megathemes of Proverbs. One reason God gave us this book and this passage is because He wants His children to be wise.
Every day we can choose one of two paths. We can be independent, rebellious, or just ignore God and stumble along the path of the fool. Or, we can choose God's way and He will give us wisdom. God's wisdom comes to us through His Word made clear to us through His Spirit living in us.
This is what abiding in Christ is all about. Staying connected to Jesus provides us the Godly wisdom we need to live right, have right relationships, and make right choices.
Please understand that I do not know the spiritual perspective of Josh Hancock nor am I judging him. Only God knows Josh's full story.
But the Cardinals' general manager said "Josh didn't make very good decisions that night."
Heartbreaking. It sounds like this baseball star had everything that many people in this world believe is the key to happiness. But he obviously did not have Godly wisdom. If only he had made the right choices.
Godly wisdom can be the difference between life and death.
How can we connect today's God's Story to our lives?
- Remember that choosing Godly wisdom must be daily. If you find yourself wandering over to the path of "the fool" during the day, then choose God's path of wisdom hourly, every 15 minutes, or minute by minute.
- Stay on the path of Godly wisdom by staying connected to Jesus through time in His Word, praying, and spending time with others who desire to abide in Christ.
- Keep a written journal. Record your Godly choices and foolish choices. After one month, review your journal to see if you have been walking the path of Godly wisdom.
- Talk to God right now in prayer. Spend a few minutes in complete honesty with Jesus. He will show you where you've been making unwise choices and how to make Godly ones.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?
- Pray for the family and friends of Josh Hancock. Ask God to give them His loving comfort.
- Pray for your friends or family members who are making wrong choices. Ask Jesus to show them His love and to use you to be an example of Godly wisdom.
- Pray every day for Jesus to give you the courage you need to make Godly choices in front of others who don't know Jesus. Walking the path of wisdom can be very lonely, but it can also lead to opportunities to connect your story and their stories.
- Use today's story about the death of Josh Hancock to help others think about making good choices. Remember to express your care and concern without blasting others about their poor choices.
9 May, 2007
Scientists identify brightest supernova
An artist's conception shows a stellar explosion on the scale seen in the supernova known as SN 2006gy.
The violent explosion was observed by ground-based telescopes as well as NASA's orbiting Chandra X-Ray Observatory in a galaxy far from our own Milky Way. But the observations hint that an erupting star in our own galaxy, called Eta Carinae, could be close to the same kind of blast, astronomers say in a paper to be published in The Astrophysical Journal.
For years, scientists have been looking for a blast this big, but never found one until last September. After months of analysis, the research team discussed their findings at a news conference Monday here at NASA Headquarters.
"We discovered a supernova that stands out as far and away the most powerful, the brightest supernova that has ever been observed," the head of the research team, Nathan Smith of the University of California at Berkeley, told reporters.
The brightness of the supernova, which has been designated SN 2006gy, wasn't that obvious to earthly observers because the star that blew up was 240 million light-years from Earth, in a galaxy called NGC 1260.
But when astronomers took that vast distance into account, they figured that the supernova was 100 times more energetic than usual. Such a phenomenon would require the violent destruction of a star 150 times more massive than our sun — which is near the theoretical limit for a single star's size.
photo & story courtesy msnbc.msn.com, 05/07/07
Exploding supernova!
Psalm 19:1-4
The Law of the Lord Is Perfect
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.
19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words,
whose voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them he has set a tent for the sun, (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about God's creation and how we should view it?
In this psalm, David is meditating on God's power and our limitations. God's ultimate power is displayed all around us through His incredible handiwork! God's creation is all about His Space, not myspace!
When you look at the heavens (sun, moon, stars), you are seeing dramatic proof of God's existence, His power, His love, and His care for you and me. Anyone who says that the universe just happened by chance has their head in outerspace. God's "gihugic" creation and His attention to design and detail just scream out the truth of a Creator who is personally involved in our lives.
The scientists who discovered the exploding supernova are enjoying a thrill of a lifetime as they look beyond our Milky Way. Talk about a far away perspective! God wants us to make this discovery - that as we abide in Christ, we will take on His perspective if we take a look at His creation and worship Him. His power and care are undeniable.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Talk to God right now about His power and care in your life. Confess the times that you take His creation for granted. Praise Him for His amazing display of His creative power and personal care in your life. Thank Him that His creation reveals the Truth about Him to you and the world.
- Try to take a walk every day when you talk to Jesus about your walk with Him. Take a couple of minutes to look at God's creation and then listen to His Spirit at work in you.
- In your journal, write a daily example of how you are amazed by God's creative power.
- Let any media coverage about outerspace remind you to enjoy God's creation and perspective.
How can we connect the truth of today's story, God's story and our story to others who need to know Jesus?
- Invite friends over for a supernova watching party. OK, that won't work, so watch a movie about outerspace and bring up today's story about the exploding supernova.
- Remember that even though the psalmist is telling us that part of God's Story is being told to the world through His creation, we still need to do our part. God's creative handiwork communicates His existence and power, but His story of salvation through Jesus Christ is found in the Bible. Jesus has told His followers to tell God's Story to "the ends of the earth".
- So....pray, show others Christ's love, and listen to their stories. Look for those moments when you can talk about God's creation with others. Talk about the size of the universe (refer back to today's story about the supernova) and ask your friends what they believe about the origin of space and the human race? Remember to listen and not give a seminar on creation. Ask Jesus to show you how to share the creation part of God's Story.
- Look for those moments when you can share your story of how Jesus gave you a personal relationship with the Creator.
7 May, 2007
Madison girl gets perfect scores on ACT, SAT
Huijia Wu has done a rare thing. The Bob Jones High School student has managed to ace the SAT and the ACT college admission tests. That's a 2,400 on the SAT and a 36 on the ACT.
She's only a junior.
Such a feat makes even the folks at the SAT and ACT offices say, "Wow."
Both organizations track scores by testing years. Out of the 1.5 million SAT tests given in 2006, 226 students scored a 2,400. In Alabama, three made a 2,400 out of the 3,879 tests taken. Of the 2.2 million ACT tests taken in the 2005-06 test period, 256 students scored a 36. In Alabama, 11 out of 76,000 test-takers earned a top score.
Neither organization can say how many students manage a top score on both tests, but it has to be rare, said Kristin Crouse, a spokeswoman for ACT.
Huijia, who goes by Emily, took both tests twice. She made a 35 the first time on the ACT but doesn't like to say how she did on the first SAT. Suffice to say, the score did not live up to her high standards.
"I thought I could get a 2,400 if I just kept trying, and it worked," she said.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story blog.al.com, 5/4/07
Achieving perfection
Philippians 3:9-14 (NLT)
9 and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. 10 I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, 11 so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!
Pressing toward the Goal
12 I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. 13 No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being perfect?
Paul says that we will never be perfect until we are in Heaven. The amazing truth about God's grace is that when we receive Christ's forgiveness, God views us as perfect!
Paul's goal was to know Christ more and more. He was driven to be like Jesus and to become all that Christ wanted him to be. His eyes were on the prize - perfect like Christ - in the presence of God forever.
Is this your goal? Are you focused on becoming like Christ?
The girl who got perfect scores on the SAT and ACT tests has a mind that blows most of our minds! But while it's possible for some to achieve perfection in an earthly test, it is impossible to pass God's test for perfection.
No matter how little wrong or how much right we do in this test of earthly living, we can't meet God's test requirement to get into Heaven.
Thankfully, Jesus already aced it for us by dying for our sins and rising from the dead so that we will experience perfection some day!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God that He sees you through the blood given by His Son on the cross for you. Ask His Spirit to help you understand His perfecting work in your life. Claim His power to focus on the privilege you have of abiding in Christ every day.
- Memorize Philippians 3:12 or post it where you will see it every day.
- Take a few minutes to identify anything in your life that is harmful or distracting to your spiritual growth. Keep these issues on your prayer list every day until you experience the changes needed in the goal of becoming more like Jesus.
- Look for 3 examples of perfection this week. This will remind you to be grateful for Christ's perfecting work in your life.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?
- Pray every day for the reality of Jesus in your life to be evident to others.
- Especially with the school year coming to an end and tests becoming the norm, use today's story about the perfect ACT and SAT scores as a conversation starter to learn the stories of others as you share how Jesus is changing your story.
- Be very quick and genuine to admit your lack of perfection to others. Remember, followers of Jesus are far from perfect - but completely forgiven!
1 May, 2007
Game over for Pacman
In suspending Pacman Jones for the 2007 season and Chris Henry for eight games, Commissioner Roger Goodell not only cracked down on two of the league's most troublesome players, he also sent a warning to everyone:
Mess with the law and your job's on the line.
"I must emphasize to you that this is your last opportunity to salvage your NFL career," Goodell wrote the two players, emphasizing they must end their wayward behavior to have a chance to play in the league again.
He also hit them where it hurts - their wallets. Jones, who plays for Tennessee, will forfeit his $1,292,500 salary; Henry, who plays for Cincinnati, will lose $217,500.
Jones and Henry, former teammates at West Virginia, were suspended under the old disciplinary policy.
While he was meting out penalties, Goodell also announced the league's new, tougher personal conduct policy that will allow longer fines and suspensions for players and also could penalize teams, perhaps by taking away draft picks.
"It is a privilege to represent the NFL, not a right," Goodell said. "These players and all members of our league have to make the right choices and decisions in their conduct on a consistent basis."
photo courtesy images.google.com & story foxsports.com, 4/10/07
Game on?
2 Timothy 2:5
5 An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about obeying God's rules?
Rules in athletic competition exist for several reasons. They make the competition fair and protect the athletes from injury. Most kinds of games include penalties or fouls as consequences for players when they don't play fair or when they are trying to harm someone from the other team.
In today's verse, Paul makes it clear that we must follow the commands or rules that God has given us. His commands are given to us because He loves us and wants us to win the race He has given us to run.
How are you doing at following the "rules" given to us by God, found in His Holy Word?
The head guy for the NFL said, "It is a privilege to represent the NFL, not a right."
Pacman Jones has lost the privilege of playing pro football for this season - one of the consequences of breaking the rules. If we take the privilege of being God's child for granted or break God's instructions, we too will experience heartbreaking consequences.
Obeying God's rules not only leads to victory, but it demonstrates our love for Him!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- As you read God's Word, look for any commands He wants you to keep and write them down. This will be your personal list of God's "rules" that will help you keep your "game" on with Jesus.
- Pray every day for Jesus to help you live according to God's "rules".
- Memorize today's verse as a reminder to stay motivated.
- Thank God right now for giving us rules to live by and please Him. Confess any of His instructions in His Word which you know you have been ignoring or breaking. Thank Jesus for providing forgiveness and giving you a clean record! Praise Him for giving you the Holy Spirit's power to obey the rules!
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Use today's story about Pacman Jones being suspended as a conversation starter with one of your sports-minded friends who needs Jesus. Ask him or her if they think Pacman's suspension is fair? If they agree with the consequence, use this as an opening for you to share what you are learning about the privilege of being in the "game" with Jesus. Be vulnerable and share how you have been "suspended" as times, but God always gets you back in the game.
- Use today's DAILYBIDE as a resource in your small group or youth group to talk about the importance of following God's "rules" in His Word.
- Be a good listener to others as you try to learn their stories. When you hear them talk about the rules or restrictions in their lives, use this opportunity to share more about your story as it relates to God's "rules" in your life.
