Vote by Keith Cook
The year was 1976 and I was going to vote for the first time for the President of the United States. I was so excited! The choice seemed easy to me. One man was running for office who claimed to be a "Born Again" believer. I would vote for him. So I did. Wow was I in for a shock. While the man was an obvious Christian, he was in my young mind not very capable of running the country. I quickly found out that there are Christians who do not let Christ direct their policy but their party instead.
The year was 1980. I cried all the way to vote. I was going to vote for another man who was running against my 1976 Christian candidate. I hated voting against such a good man. I was not as impressed with my 1980 pick because he was a more private Christian. But, he was a leader, shared my values and I actually prayed and felt peace at changing horses in the middle of the stream. He won and so did our country. I believe God used this President to bring back decency and honor to politics. He turned out to be not only a vocal Christian, but also a practicing Christian in his politics. God used him.
While all men have faults and all political parties have their good and bad representatives, there is a primary responsibility given to all men and women born on earth to preserve, protect, and govern their lands. We must make good choices. We must vote in our culture for men and women who will do what is right and honor God and humanity.
In 1992 and 1996 we elected a smiling face with a political agenda. I was shocked that Americans could elect such a partisan to such a high office. We got what we deserved. We are still suffering from the ramifications of humanistic and anti-God policies. When decency and morals are thrown out of societies the result is chaos.
This week we all can vote. While I can not tell you who to vote for, I can tell you that it does matter who we elect. Morality matters, values matter. Party platforms matter. Who someone stands with matters. How someone votes matters.
Go Vote. Remember your creator when you vote. Vote for people who will represent your values and principles, not men who use their own money to go around the law or men who try to scare the elderly so they will not vote for his opponent.
Vote for candidates who want to protect your country and who want to stop terrorist and promote faith based solutions for societies problems. There are men and women in politics who promote hate and use race and quotas as tools to keep their political base. Avoid such men. Vote for the right men and women who are not afraid to represent the real needs of your community.
This is the opinion of the writer. Not an official stand of On The Go Ministries.
Daily prayer focus: Pray for your country as people go and vote their conscience. May God's will be done. Honor Christ even when you vote.
Also, pray for our Governmental Leaders as they continue to make key decisions which will effect our generation and generations to come. Pray for newly elected officials that they will honor God in all that they do.
On The Go Prayer Focus: On The Go Ministry Supporters. It takes teamwork to make the dream work! Our ministry supporters have made commitments to play a vital part of our team through praying, sharing, caring, going, and growing.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for November 5, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2004, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Monday, November 4, 2013
Redeem The Vote
Redeem The Vote by Keith Cook
"Therefore, O king, be pleased to accept my advice: Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue." Daniel 4:27
Should Christians speak out about their political views. Should we try to influence our nations on values and social issues?
In the Bible Christians and Jews often spoke about secular and social issues to government leaders.
In today's scripture verse, we read that Daniel boldly confronted King Nebuchadnezzar and told him to practice righteousness and to show mercy to the oppressed.
Old Testament prophets often spoke out for change, justice, and morality. It is recorded that they spoke to foreign nations about their sins and shortcomings. Isaiah, Ezekiel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah all spoke from the Lord to social problems and about God's standards.
In the New Testament Paul spoke to Roman governor Felix concerning righteousness and self-control. He told of the coming judgment of God because of sin and abuse.
All over the nation groups are forming to promote their candidates. Rock stars who live contrary to the ways of Christ and His teachings are going around trying to Rock the Vote. I believe we should, as Christians, be trying to "Redeem The Vote!" If we do not stand for values and Christian principles, who will. Political parties have their own agenda. We should have Christ's agenda. As for me and my house I will serve the Lord even in my politics.
While I can not publicly and officially as a Christian leader tell you who to vote for, I can say that you know who you should vote for if you were going to vote according to Christian principles. If you are not sure where your candidate stands on faith and Christian issues, find out. Search the web, call their offices, ask your pastor. I personally vote values!
It matters who a candidate hangs around, who his friends are, and who is supporting him. It matters how he voted in the past. It matters if he is a man of convictions or simply a politician who will do anything, say anything, insinuate anything, or even scare others to win an election.
Yes, it is important that my elected officials share my personal vision of what is right and wrong. I respect and honor men and women who have different opinions from me if they have character and convictions. Some differences of opinion I can overlook and just simply pray for them to gain insight and change, but let me say that this year the choices facing most voters is very plain and simple. Let me say it again. I vote values! Do not stay at home. Go vote. Vote right. Vote Values, not party.
VOTE VALUES! Redeem the vote!
This is the opinion of the writer. Not an official stand of On The Go Ministries.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray that God will Bless America. Pray for Christians to take a stand and Vote Values!
On The Go Prayer Focus: On The Go's GoCare ministry. This is our acts of kindness and benevolence ministry department. The focus of our GoCare ministry is to reach out to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of hurting individuals and to build bridges between churches and their communities.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for November 4, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"Therefore, O king, be pleased to accept my advice: Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue." Daniel 4:27
Should Christians speak out about their political views. Should we try to influence our nations on values and social issues?
In the Bible Christians and Jews often spoke about secular and social issues to government leaders.
In today's scripture verse, we read that Daniel boldly confronted King Nebuchadnezzar and told him to practice righteousness and to show mercy to the oppressed.
Old Testament prophets often spoke out for change, justice, and morality. It is recorded that they spoke to foreign nations about their sins and shortcomings. Isaiah, Ezekiel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah all spoke from the Lord to social problems and about God's standards.
In the New Testament Paul spoke to Roman governor Felix concerning righteousness and self-control. He told of the coming judgment of God because of sin and abuse.
All over the nation groups are forming to promote their candidates. Rock stars who live contrary to the ways of Christ and His teachings are going around trying to Rock the Vote. I believe we should, as Christians, be trying to "Redeem The Vote!" If we do not stand for values and Christian principles, who will. Political parties have their own agenda. We should have Christ's agenda. As for me and my house I will serve the Lord even in my politics.
While I can not publicly and officially as a Christian leader tell you who to vote for, I can say that you know who you should vote for if you were going to vote according to Christian principles. If you are not sure where your candidate stands on faith and Christian issues, find out. Search the web, call their offices, ask your pastor. I personally vote values!
It matters who a candidate hangs around, who his friends are, and who is supporting him. It matters how he voted in the past. It matters if he is a man of convictions or simply a politician who will do anything, say anything, insinuate anything, or even scare others to win an election.
Yes, it is important that my elected officials share my personal vision of what is right and wrong. I respect and honor men and women who have different opinions from me if they have character and convictions. Some differences of opinion I can overlook and just simply pray for them to gain insight and change, but let me say that this year the choices facing most voters is very plain and simple. Let me say it again. I vote values! Do not stay at home. Go vote. Vote right. Vote Values, not party.
VOTE VALUES! Redeem the vote!
This is the opinion of the writer. Not an official stand of On The Go Ministries.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray that God will Bless America. Pray for Christians to take a stand and Vote Values!
On The Go Prayer Focus: On The Go's GoCare ministry. This is our acts of kindness and benevolence ministry department. The focus of our GoCare ministry is to reach out to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of hurting individuals and to build bridges between churches and their communities.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for November 4, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Is There A Pounding On The Door
Is There A Pounding On The Door by Keith Cook Sr.
"Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." Romans 3:28
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" Romans 5:1
October 31 is traditionally seen as Reformation Day all across the Christian world. This day is a day to remember what Martin Luther did long ago to stir the church to re-examine the real nature of faith and the real place of the church in the lives of believers.
You might say that the organized church, the church visible, was "born again" that day.
One of the reasons the church had to be reborn was brought to the attention of Luther ironically due to the building of a church that was being built to honor Peter. The very man who's statement that Christ was truly the Son of God would lead to the building of His real church, the church invisible, and that this - spiritual - universal - eternal - church would never be defeated.
"And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Matthew 16:18
Back in 1517 the church had lost its way. To raise funds for completing St. Peter's Basilica in Rome many clergy told their congregants that in order to have their sins forgiven, and those of their relatives, they had to give money to the church. When the people gave they would receive written "pardons" or writs of indulgences that basically said they were now forgiven of their sins and would go to Heaven when they died.
As the world tried to slip deceptively into the church through the side door - God was getting ready to do something at the front door.
Luther was a professor at the University of Wittenberg, Germany and began to actually read the Bible. He was fascinated by the New Testament. His studies and attention was often drawn to the Book of Romans. As the Spirit was being quenched on the altar of expedience by the religious leaders of the day, God was moving in Luther's heart.
On October 31, 1517 Martin Luther posted a ninety-five point theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. This posting was actually a declaration of his intent to debate the theological merits of indulgences. Luther had been led by the Holy Spirit in his study, in his heart, and during his worship and prayer that man was justified by faith alone, and that every man was a priest before God. This theological insight of justification by faith and the priesthood of all believers, while foreign to the thoughts of the day, were actually the foundational truth of the New Testament. He knew that the church was not following the Bible and that it needed to be reformed to what God intended it to be.
His pounding on the door of that church resulted in more than he bargained for. He only wanted to warn the church, and clean up their theology. He did not know that God was going to plant the seeds in him and move him to do the deeds that would result in a massive refocusing of the church back to the Word of God. He used Martin Luther to teach and champion theology and practice that was based on that word and not the traditions of man or the church.
Many of the great reforms that came out of the Reformation are the very same doctrines and practices that the Christian church needs to be reminded of afresh and anew today. There needs to be a great pounding on the doors of our modern church that causes all to awaken from slumber and re-emerge as a movement, a people, a church, that is alive and moving under the direction of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God and for the purposes of Christ.
There are 5 Latin phrases that make up what is called the "Solas". These five Solas were the rallying cry of the reformers. They put up with scorn, ridicule, torture, massive peer pressure, economic hardships, rejection, excommunication, and many gave their lives to bring the church back to a true Biblical foundation.
The Solas - "By Scripture alone (only), by grace alone (only), by Christ alone (only), by faith alone (only), and to God be the glory alone (only)!"
1. Sola scriptura "by Scripture alone"
Like during the reformation days of Luther you too are to live by Scripture alone. There is no other authority, book, or teaching that should direct your lives other than the Word of God.
2. Sola fide "by faith alone"
You are made right (justified) by faith alone. While faith yields good works, these works do not make you right with God. Baptism, communion, membership, the church, priests, no external or internal force or factor brings about salvation.
3. Sola gratia "by grace alone"
It is by God's grace alone that you can be saved. It is "unmerited favor" with God by way of Jesus shed blood on Calvary that brings about your eternal security. It is God's gift to you, that is not earned by works or precepts.
4. Solo Christo "through Christ alone"
Jesus is the only mediator you need between you and God. Priests, saints, angels, ministers, teachers, may all be important to you, your church life and your personal ministry, but do not and should not, be allowed to come between you and your relationship with God.
5. Soli Deo gloria "glory to God alone"
You and I are not worthy of any glory or praise. Jesus did it all - He came - lived - died - rose again. He paid the price, submitted his life, and made the ultimate sacrifice to bring sanctification to everyone. You are called a saint because of what He has done for you and because of what He will do through you. You are holy only due to the power of the Holy Spirit living in your life. You are to not praise mankind, but praise the Lord who is the author and perfecter of your faith.
Is God Pounding On The Door Again?
Right now - I pray that the Holy Spirit is pounding on the door of your heart, mind, and spirit His theses. There will probably be more than 95 things He will direct you to examine and hand over to His leadership and direction. God wants you to live a reformers life and have a reformation mindset. God will use you to share the Good News, teach the Word of the Lord, and to minister as a passionate servant leaders in these strategic days.
What can you do?
1. Like Luther - get in the Word of God - read it yourself! Do not let others interpret the Word for you. Let the Holy Spirit guide you.
2. Know what you believe and be convinced of it - Study the Word and never stop learning! It may sound illogical, but by your committing to never stop reading, sharing, asking, discussing, or questioning God's Word actually guarantees you that you will become convinced of what is really true.
3. Take the time to pray, praise, worship, and relax with your Creator. The spiritual disciplines are not for a season but for all seasons of life. God brings wisdom and clarity as you mature. While the eyes may fade with time - the mysteries of God get clearer as you spend more time with Him. Luther said that there were two things that helped him fight, "Theology and Music"! When you know what you believe you have the courage to fight for God but when you have His song on your heart you have the will to fight no matter what may come.
4. Do not be afraid to stand alone - even if culture, the religious, family, friends, or foes all rise up against God's principles and Word, you must stand with Him. You may be called on to do some pounding on the doors of many cultural sacred cows and before some intellectual giants, but God will be with you. His Holy Spirit will illuminate and direct you.
5. Always do what you know to do - no matter if there is praise or perils. Doing what God puts before you to do is key to seeing mighty moves of God all around you. It may seem small or insignificant but so was nailing a paper to a church door!
Get out your hammer and get ready. Take out your pin and prepare to write. Take out your Bible and begin to study.
Is that a pounding I hear at the door?
(I wrote this for my son, Keith Cook Jr. He is such an inspiration to me. He has a passion for Christ that amazes me. He is not living off his dad's faith - He is living with the same faith. He has his own unique personal Sola experience - but I see the same Word, Faith, Grace, Christ, and desire to give God the Glory. As Christ pounded on my heart and wrote on my heart what I was to champion - so is He writing on His. )
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for your local church body and Christians worldwide that we will return to our roots and the biblical foundations that are near to the heart of God: Scripture, Faith, Grace, Christ, and God to be Glorified.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Thank you for standing with us and supporting our Ethiopia Festival Team this week! Today Keith, Joan, White Ribbon Day, Rick Willison, and the BMX team will be ministering in churches in Dire Dawa. Pray for the team as they share the Gospel with boldness, assertiveness, and sensitivity. Pray for the seeds that are planted, and those who make decisions for Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for November 3, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2009, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." Romans 3:28
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" Romans 5:1
October 31 is traditionally seen as Reformation Day all across the Christian world. This day is a day to remember what Martin Luther did long ago to stir the church to re-examine the real nature of faith and the real place of the church in the lives of believers.
You might say that the organized church, the church visible, was "born again" that day.
One of the reasons the church had to be reborn was brought to the attention of Luther ironically due to the building of a church that was being built to honor Peter. The very man who's statement that Christ was truly the Son of God would lead to the building of His real church, the church invisible, and that this - spiritual - universal - eternal - church would never be defeated.
"And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Matthew 16:18
Back in 1517 the church had lost its way. To raise funds for completing St. Peter's Basilica in Rome many clergy told their congregants that in order to have their sins forgiven, and those of their relatives, they had to give money to the church. When the people gave they would receive written "pardons" or writs of indulgences that basically said they were now forgiven of their sins and would go to Heaven when they died.
As the world tried to slip deceptively into the church through the side door - God was getting ready to do something at the front door.
Luther was a professor at the University of Wittenberg, Germany and began to actually read the Bible. He was fascinated by the New Testament. His studies and attention was often drawn to the Book of Romans. As the Spirit was being quenched on the altar of expedience by the religious leaders of the day, God was moving in Luther's heart.
On October 31, 1517 Martin Luther posted a ninety-five point theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. This posting was actually a declaration of his intent to debate the theological merits of indulgences. Luther had been led by the Holy Spirit in his study, in his heart, and during his worship and prayer that man was justified by faith alone, and that every man was a priest before God. This theological insight of justification by faith and the priesthood of all believers, while foreign to the thoughts of the day, were actually the foundational truth of the New Testament. He knew that the church was not following the Bible and that it needed to be reformed to what God intended it to be.
His pounding on the door of that church resulted in more than he bargained for. He only wanted to warn the church, and clean up their theology. He did not know that God was going to plant the seeds in him and move him to do the deeds that would result in a massive refocusing of the church back to the Word of God. He used Martin Luther to teach and champion theology and practice that was based on that word and not the traditions of man or the church.
Many of the great reforms that came out of the Reformation are the very same doctrines and practices that the Christian church needs to be reminded of afresh and anew today. There needs to be a great pounding on the doors of our modern church that causes all to awaken from slumber and re-emerge as a movement, a people, a church, that is alive and moving under the direction of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God and for the purposes of Christ.
There are 5 Latin phrases that make up what is called the "Solas". These five Solas were the rallying cry of the reformers. They put up with scorn, ridicule, torture, massive peer pressure, economic hardships, rejection, excommunication, and many gave their lives to bring the church back to a true Biblical foundation.
The Solas - "By Scripture alone (only), by grace alone (only), by Christ alone (only), by faith alone (only), and to God be the glory alone (only)!"
1. Sola scriptura "by Scripture alone"
Like during the reformation days of Luther you too are to live by Scripture alone. There is no other authority, book, or teaching that should direct your lives other than the Word of God.
2. Sola fide "by faith alone"
You are made right (justified) by faith alone. While faith yields good works, these works do not make you right with God. Baptism, communion, membership, the church, priests, no external or internal force or factor brings about salvation.
3. Sola gratia "by grace alone"
It is by God's grace alone that you can be saved. It is "unmerited favor" with God by way of Jesus shed blood on Calvary that brings about your eternal security. It is God's gift to you, that is not earned by works or precepts.
4. Solo Christo "through Christ alone"
Jesus is the only mediator you need between you and God. Priests, saints, angels, ministers, teachers, may all be important to you, your church life and your personal ministry, but do not and should not, be allowed to come between you and your relationship with God.
5. Soli Deo gloria "glory to God alone"
You and I are not worthy of any glory or praise. Jesus did it all - He came - lived - died - rose again. He paid the price, submitted his life, and made the ultimate sacrifice to bring sanctification to everyone. You are called a saint because of what He has done for you and because of what He will do through you. You are holy only due to the power of the Holy Spirit living in your life. You are to not praise mankind, but praise the Lord who is the author and perfecter of your faith.
Is God Pounding On The Door Again?
Right now - I pray that the Holy Spirit is pounding on the door of your heart, mind, and spirit His theses. There will probably be more than 95 things He will direct you to examine and hand over to His leadership and direction. God wants you to live a reformers life and have a reformation mindset. God will use you to share the Good News, teach the Word of the Lord, and to minister as a passionate servant leaders in these strategic days.
What can you do?
1. Like Luther - get in the Word of God - read it yourself! Do not let others interpret the Word for you. Let the Holy Spirit guide you.
2. Know what you believe and be convinced of it - Study the Word and never stop learning! It may sound illogical, but by your committing to never stop reading, sharing, asking, discussing, or questioning God's Word actually guarantees you that you will become convinced of what is really true.
3. Take the time to pray, praise, worship, and relax with your Creator. The spiritual disciplines are not for a season but for all seasons of life. God brings wisdom and clarity as you mature. While the eyes may fade with time - the mysteries of God get clearer as you spend more time with Him. Luther said that there were two things that helped him fight, "Theology and Music"! When you know what you believe you have the courage to fight for God but when you have His song on your heart you have the will to fight no matter what may come.
4. Do not be afraid to stand alone - even if culture, the religious, family, friends, or foes all rise up against God's principles and Word, you must stand with Him. You may be called on to do some pounding on the doors of many cultural sacred cows and before some intellectual giants, but God will be with you. His Holy Spirit will illuminate and direct you.
5. Always do what you know to do - no matter if there is praise or perils. Doing what God puts before you to do is key to seeing mighty moves of God all around you. It may seem small or insignificant but so was nailing a paper to a church door!
Get out your hammer and get ready. Take out your pin and prepare to write. Take out your Bible and begin to study.
Is that a pounding I hear at the door?
(I wrote this for my son, Keith Cook Jr. He is such an inspiration to me. He has a passion for Christ that amazes me. He is not living off his dad's faith - He is living with the same faith. He has his own unique personal Sola experience - but I see the same Word, Faith, Grace, Christ, and desire to give God the Glory. As Christ pounded on my heart and wrote on my heart what I was to champion - so is He writing on His. )
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for your local church body and Christians worldwide that we will return to our roots and the biblical foundations that are near to the heart of God: Scripture, Faith, Grace, Christ, and God to be Glorified.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Thank you for standing with us and supporting our Ethiopia Festival Team this week! Today Keith, Joan, White Ribbon Day, Rick Willison, and the BMX team will be ministering in churches in Dire Dawa. Pray for the team as they share the Gospel with boldness, assertiveness, and sensitivity. Pray for the seeds that are planted, and those who make decisions for Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for November 3, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2009, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Perfect Peace
Perfect Peace by Joan Cook
"Peace, I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27
Recently, I was driving down the road and noticed an airplane making it's approach to land. I couldn't help but notice that even though it was a cloudy and windy day, the airplane seemed to be flying smoothly. Because I have flown many times, I knew that even though the plane may look like it's flying smoothly, more than likely, the passengers were experiencing a little turbulence on their landing approach, due to the weather.
Isn't that a lot like life? We may look at someone else's life and conclude that everything looks great from the outside, when in fact, their life may be filled with turbulence on the inside. In fact, you may be the person that everyone thinks has it all together, when on the inside, you fill like you are falling apart.
The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ has given us His peace. Not the kind of peace that the world can give, but the peace that passes understanding. In your turbulent situations, do not let your heart be troubled! Choose today to accept His peace into your life.
Daily Prayer Focus: Praise God for the perfect peace which can only come from God, our Father.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Joan Cook's "Women On The Go" Ministries. Joan's "Women On The Go" programs are implemented at women's conferences, local churches, retreats, and separate stand-alone events. God has given her a burden to minister to and encourage women in their walk with the Lord. Pray for Joan as she ministers and shares from her heart and as she presents motivational, evangelistic programs, materials, and leadership to and for women that will challenge and motivate them to a deeper walk with the Lord. Today, Joan will be sharing with Women and Young Ladies in Ethiopia! Pray that God will give her Divine Sensitivity to their Needs and that Many Ladies will give their Heart to Jesus Christ.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Also, Pray for the Love Ethiopia Festival where Keith Cook and the team will be ministering tonight in Dire Dawa! Pray for Holy Boldness and for Decisions for Christ! Praise God for each life that has been changed and for those who have found Perfect Peace this week in Ethiopia!
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for November 2, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"Peace, I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27
Recently, I was driving down the road and noticed an airplane making it's approach to land. I couldn't help but notice that even though it was a cloudy and windy day, the airplane seemed to be flying smoothly. Because I have flown many times, I knew that even though the plane may look like it's flying smoothly, more than likely, the passengers were experiencing a little turbulence on their landing approach, due to the weather.
Isn't that a lot like life? We may look at someone else's life and conclude that everything looks great from the outside, when in fact, their life may be filled with turbulence on the inside. In fact, you may be the person that everyone thinks has it all together, when on the inside, you fill like you are falling apart.
The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ has given us His peace. Not the kind of peace that the world can give, but the peace that passes understanding. In your turbulent situations, do not let your heart be troubled! Choose today to accept His peace into your life.
Daily Prayer Focus: Praise God for the perfect peace which can only come from God, our Father.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Joan Cook's "Women On The Go" Ministries. Joan's "Women On The Go" programs are implemented at women's conferences, local churches, retreats, and separate stand-alone events. God has given her a burden to minister to and encourage women in their walk with the Lord. Pray for Joan as she ministers and shares from her heart and as she presents motivational, evangelistic programs, materials, and leadership to and for women that will challenge and motivate them to a deeper walk with the Lord. Today, Joan will be sharing with Women and Young Ladies in Ethiopia! Pray that God will give her Divine Sensitivity to their Needs and that Many Ladies will give their Heart to Jesus Christ.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Also, Pray for the Love Ethiopia Festival where Keith Cook and the team will be ministering tonight in Dire Dawa! Pray for Holy Boldness and for Decisions for Christ! Praise God for each life that has been changed and for those who have found Perfect Peace this week in Ethiopia!
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for November 2, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Questions For Modern Ministers
Questions For Modern Ministers by Keith Cook
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears..." 2 Timothy 4:3
I have a few questions for modern day ministers, preachers, evangelists, and Christian workers. I will address each question to a particular style of expression of ministers on the scene in today's modern church culture. The category terms are used by the secular and religious media to describe certain types of ministers.
My reason for stating each category or type of minister in a general way is so we can see strengths and weaknesses, value and dangers, of each manifestation of leader without getting off on personalities and individuals. Character assassination is never "Christian" and should not be tolerated in any of today's ministers.
I do not have the right to correct or rebuke an individual without first going to the individual, praying with the person, and examining the scriptures in their presence in order to come to Godly conclusions and allow for restitution, resolution, and reconciliation. Then the Bible teaches that if the matter is not resolved then I am to bring it before the leaders of the church to try to go and do the same thing. Going public with my impressions and dislikes about another Christian is not Biblical. I fear much of our speaking on the radio, debating on the television, blogging on the internet, and publishing in books that names other Christians by name that we disagree with is counter productive to restoration and lasting revival in the church. Getting into camps and defending positions does not promote the Gospel but does cause division.
Here are my questions and observations:
1. Faith Healers
Is it really a lack of faith that keeps people from being healed or could it be that God gives mercy and grace even to those in sickness and health? What of the men and women mentioned in Hebrews who lived by faith, but had all kinds of misfortunes and even lost their lives? Could it be that the Bible teaches us to trust God in whatever state we live in? Wearing glasses, going to the doctor, taking medicine, praying for healing, and trusting God are all modern expressions of faith, not just being healed. Faith without works is dead. Presuming on God is not faith but folly. Hearing from God and believing the Word of God leads to faith and assurance.
Having preached around the world and seen God move others to faith in Christ as well as seeing God move in the area of healing has led me to understand the heart of those who have a gifting in the area of healing. I also know that there are millions of people who have faith, live right, are going to Heaven, who live their lives with certain infirmities and external situations that they have no control of. I have seen God heal the blind, provide funds, jobs, restore marriages and so much more. But I have also seen Him give peace to families who have just lost a loved one, comfort to those whose spouses never return, and deliverance by medicine and time.
2. Prosperity Preachers
Does it really make one more spiritual to be rich? Are God's riches for this world or are they spiritual in nature? The Bible teaches that God has a portion for each of us. God does not want us to live below the portion or provision He has for us, but this is not the same thing as claiming riches and demanding God provide desires and soulish impressions.
God does want to bless us. He wants to give us good gifts. His riches are everlasting and His benefits are astonishing. In Biblical times Jesus taught slaves how to live right even while being slaves. He did not promote slavery but did not tell slaves to just give all their money away and they will be a master too. He taught them how to live for God in whatever state they found themselves. He taught fishermen how to let down their nets for a catch that blessed them with great temporary wealth but then later asked them to give it all up and come follow him. He told them they would not have a place to rest, live a hard life, even loose their life. That does not sound to prosperous to me - yet it made them the richest men in history. Wow, God's view of prosperity is being in the center of His provision for us. What a great place to be. Knowing that God will provide is much better than trying to get rich and do it all on your own strength.
3. Relational Ministers
Just making friends for Jesus sounds good but does just being an example result in someone knowing the truth, hearing the truth and actually coming to faith in Christ. Jesus commanded us all to go into all the world and preach, teach, baptize, bless, help, and inspire everyone. God has given all of us friends, opportunities, and situations that are a part of His divine plan for reaching all mankind with the message of Christ. If we fail to share the good news and simply wait until they are inspired by our life they may actually already be in the next life that would be in Hell.
4. Bible Thumpers
Jesus used stories, parables, examples, and love to share the message of salvation. Just knowing certain passages and forcing them on people does not result in salvation. Many simply agree with the message in order to get away from the messenger. Beating people up in Jesus name is not Good News, it is spiritual assault and battery and can result in disillusioned adults who obeyed commands earlier in life, but had no joy and abandon the faith.
5. Social Gospel Advocates
Just sharing a cup of water in Jesus name will not get people into Heaven. You can clean up a life, heal a body, comfort an emotional being, and give a hand up to all who have a need and still end up with respectable, healthy, happy, educated, and emotionally stable lost people. You must share the rest of the story. Jesus came to save sinners - who even the most educated and blessed are counted as! It may sound old fashioned but it is part of the whole Gospel.
6. Motivational Speakers
Positive thinking and feeling good about yourself and having a healthy self-esteem are vital to being a well balanced individual but being positive does not negate the fact that we are not basically good people - we are by nature and choice sinners. At our core there is the proof of our real state. Left to our own devices we do not get better. Education, wealth, power and position do not guarantee goodness - only self-righteousness. It is not what I think that is important but rather what God thinks of me. Only in Christ am I complete. It is only by repentance and dependence on Him that I can soar on wings like an eagle. It is not enough to be inspired by devotional preaching and the politically correct socially acceptable tickling of my emotions and soul - I need the truth. I need to hear the Word! I need to know what God says about everything!
7. Intellectual Teachers
Boring a generation with our knowledge or getting rational consent to premises is not Biblical salvation. It is not the law or even our understanding of the Word that brings life. It is Christ, drawing us by the power of the Holy Spirit that brings us to a place of repentance and acceptance of the claims of Christ. The emotions, joys, and relationships of life are all a vital part of knowing the fullness of Christ. God uses the combination of the intellect, the power of the Word of God, the encouragement of the saints, the filling of the Holy Spirit, and the daily presence of the Lord to motivate us to live and mature in Christ.
My wife, Joan, is a fantastic teacher of the Word. She spends over 40 hours preparing her lessons. She then is able to bring the Word to life. She is energetic, passionate, tender, and still very evangelistic and open to the moving of the Spirit. This kind of expression of the gift of the teacher is needed today. Not just the scholar who thinks they are better than others or knows something that most will never grasp. We need to know the Word, Share the Word, and Live the Word. Getting the Word out is so needed but not by Intellectual snobs.
8. Judgmental Prophets
Calling another minister a devil is not spiritual. Yelling at people as they enter meetings or screaming at them as they walk down the sidewalk that they are going to hell is not an effective way to win someone to Christ.
Knocking other forms of evangelism because they are fresh, modern, effective, or simply another way to get to the Word out is not Biblical. Jesus and the apostles used all forms of evangelism available in that day.
To some they shared one on one, others in small groups and some were relational while some were sensational.
Many shared with their families and friends while some dared go to the untouchables of their day.
God used mass evangelism, church programs, one on one, and divine appointments.
Some were challenged by Paul to look to the unknown God, whiles some were rebuked for being hypocrites. Some would say one method was "God has a wonderful plan for your life" and the other was "Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand'! One would be consider a soft approach while the other more confrontational. God used both. He still does today. Neither way left out any of the essential elements of coming to Christ. God just used the Holy Spirit to lead the messenger in what to say and when.
We need to stop judging others and simply share what God leads us to share. Never tear down another way to share Christ to elevate your favorite or preferred way.
9. Sloppy Agape Messengers
"Just believe - that's all you have to do..." "God loves you and will not send you to hell." " We all are working for the same thing." "All roads lead to heaven if you are sincere..." " Just pray this prayer and no matter what you do you are going to heaven..."
I have been to meetings where the speaker stood and shared story after story - getting the crowd emotional and then at the end simply said pray this prayer with me and God will take you to heaven and your life will be wonderful from this night on. No more problems, no more worries" He never shared the gospel. There was reference to Jesus but not the penalty for sin, plight of sinners, condition of lost, God's way to salvation, need for Christ, benefits of faith in Christ, or steps to coming to real belief and trust in Christ.
There are no magic words that save. The sinners prayer is not magical - but calling out to God in faith believing in Christ with a Godly sorrow for ones sins and a total abandonment of one's whole being to God and trust in His leading does result in salvation. One does not have to say it right, understand it all, or feel anything, Yet salvation comes to them that really believe, repent, and call on the Lord.
10. Spirit Led - Bible Fed - God Called - Servant Leaders
I am sure there are other modern day expressions of ministers that I have left out. God wants us to have faith, trust Him for our portion, win all we have a relationship with, be bold, help the needy, inspire others to greatness, know the Word, not be polluted by the world, and really know what and in whom we believe. You see there is value to many of the personalities listed above - but there is also danger. Do not follow man but God. Put your trust in Him.
Preachers of the Gospel, teachers of the Word, modern day ministers - make sure you are listening to God and following His path for your ministry. Just because someone is on television, writes books, has a following are we to imitate them. We are to follow the Messiah, Jesus. Some of my closest friends are great authors and preachers. They inspire me to go to Christ and learn from Him. They never take the credit or promote themselves. They would never want to take the Glory that belongs only to Christ. And we should never give it to them - but to Him!
God is looking for servant leaders to lead his people to the truth. He is calling many to serve Him in these last days. He is needing them to become men and women of the Book - the Bible and He is needing them to be led by the Spirit.
It is my prayer that all of us that call ourselves ministers of the Gospel would really get a fresh word from God and share it His way, at His time, with His Power. Oh, now is the time to do more, try more, and see more than ever before. We live in such a Godless and perverse generation. Let us do our part in being in Christ so that as watchmen we watch and warn just as in Bible days!
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for a fresh Word from God today then ask God for the opportunity to share His Story with someone in need.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook Crusades, Celebrations, and Festivals. God has given Keith the opportunity and privilege of sharing the message of Christ both stateside and internationally. During each opportunity, Keith presents a joyful and enthusiastic, yet powerful and clear presentation of the Gospel and a call to commitment to Christ. Love Ethiopia Festival is ongoing and God's Spirit is moving across Ethiopia this week!
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for November 1, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears..." 2 Timothy 4:3
I have a few questions for modern day ministers, preachers, evangelists, and Christian workers. I will address each question to a particular style of expression of ministers on the scene in today's modern church culture. The category terms are used by the secular and religious media to describe certain types of ministers.
My reason for stating each category or type of minister in a general way is so we can see strengths and weaknesses, value and dangers, of each manifestation of leader without getting off on personalities and individuals. Character assassination is never "Christian" and should not be tolerated in any of today's ministers.
I do not have the right to correct or rebuke an individual without first going to the individual, praying with the person, and examining the scriptures in their presence in order to come to Godly conclusions and allow for restitution, resolution, and reconciliation. Then the Bible teaches that if the matter is not resolved then I am to bring it before the leaders of the church to try to go and do the same thing. Going public with my impressions and dislikes about another Christian is not Biblical. I fear much of our speaking on the radio, debating on the television, blogging on the internet, and publishing in books that names other Christians by name that we disagree with is counter productive to restoration and lasting revival in the church. Getting into camps and defending positions does not promote the Gospel but does cause division.
Here are my questions and observations:
1. Faith Healers
Is it really a lack of faith that keeps people from being healed or could it be that God gives mercy and grace even to those in sickness and health? What of the men and women mentioned in Hebrews who lived by faith, but had all kinds of misfortunes and even lost their lives? Could it be that the Bible teaches us to trust God in whatever state we live in? Wearing glasses, going to the doctor, taking medicine, praying for healing, and trusting God are all modern expressions of faith, not just being healed. Faith without works is dead. Presuming on God is not faith but folly. Hearing from God and believing the Word of God leads to faith and assurance.
Having preached around the world and seen God move others to faith in Christ as well as seeing God move in the area of healing has led me to understand the heart of those who have a gifting in the area of healing. I also know that there are millions of people who have faith, live right, are going to Heaven, who live their lives with certain infirmities and external situations that they have no control of. I have seen God heal the blind, provide funds, jobs, restore marriages and so much more. But I have also seen Him give peace to families who have just lost a loved one, comfort to those whose spouses never return, and deliverance by medicine and time.
2. Prosperity Preachers
Does it really make one more spiritual to be rich? Are God's riches for this world or are they spiritual in nature? The Bible teaches that God has a portion for each of us. God does not want us to live below the portion or provision He has for us, but this is not the same thing as claiming riches and demanding God provide desires and soulish impressions.
God does want to bless us. He wants to give us good gifts. His riches are everlasting and His benefits are astonishing. In Biblical times Jesus taught slaves how to live right even while being slaves. He did not promote slavery but did not tell slaves to just give all their money away and they will be a master too. He taught them how to live for God in whatever state they found themselves. He taught fishermen how to let down their nets for a catch that blessed them with great temporary wealth but then later asked them to give it all up and come follow him. He told them they would not have a place to rest, live a hard life, even loose their life. That does not sound to prosperous to me - yet it made them the richest men in history. Wow, God's view of prosperity is being in the center of His provision for us. What a great place to be. Knowing that God will provide is much better than trying to get rich and do it all on your own strength.
3. Relational Ministers
Just making friends for Jesus sounds good but does just being an example result in someone knowing the truth, hearing the truth and actually coming to faith in Christ. Jesus commanded us all to go into all the world and preach, teach, baptize, bless, help, and inspire everyone. God has given all of us friends, opportunities, and situations that are a part of His divine plan for reaching all mankind with the message of Christ. If we fail to share the good news and simply wait until they are inspired by our life they may actually already be in the next life that would be in Hell.
4. Bible Thumpers
Jesus used stories, parables, examples, and love to share the message of salvation. Just knowing certain passages and forcing them on people does not result in salvation. Many simply agree with the message in order to get away from the messenger. Beating people up in Jesus name is not Good News, it is spiritual assault and battery and can result in disillusioned adults who obeyed commands earlier in life, but had no joy and abandon the faith.
5. Social Gospel Advocates
Just sharing a cup of water in Jesus name will not get people into Heaven. You can clean up a life, heal a body, comfort an emotional being, and give a hand up to all who have a need and still end up with respectable, healthy, happy, educated, and emotionally stable lost people. You must share the rest of the story. Jesus came to save sinners - who even the most educated and blessed are counted as! It may sound old fashioned but it is part of the whole Gospel.
6. Motivational Speakers
Positive thinking and feeling good about yourself and having a healthy self-esteem are vital to being a well balanced individual but being positive does not negate the fact that we are not basically good people - we are by nature and choice sinners. At our core there is the proof of our real state. Left to our own devices we do not get better. Education, wealth, power and position do not guarantee goodness - only self-righteousness. It is not what I think that is important but rather what God thinks of me. Only in Christ am I complete. It is only by repentance and dependence on Him that I can soar on wings like an eagle. It is not enough to be inspired by devotional preaching and the politically correct socially acceptable tickling of my emotions and soul - I need the truth. I need to hear the Word! I need to know what God says about everything!
7. Intellectual Teachers
Boring a generation with our knowledge or getting rational consent to premises is not Biblical salvation. It is not the law or even our understanding of the Word that brings life. It is Christ, drawing us by the power of the Holy Spirit that brings us to a place of repentance and acceptance of the claims of Christ. The emotions, joys, and relationships of life are all a vital part of knowing the fullness of Christ. God uses the combination of the intellect, the power of the Word of God, the encouragement of the saints, the filling of the Holy Spirit, and the daily presence of the Lord to motivate us to live and mature in Christ.
My wife, Joan, is a fantastic teacher of the Word. She spends over 40 hours preparing her lessons. She then is able to bring the Word to life. She is energetic, passionate, tender, and still very evangelistic and open to the moving of the Spirit. This kind of expression of the gift of the teacher is needed today. Not just the scholar who thinks they are better than others or knows something that most will never grasp. We need to know the Word, Share the Word, and Live the Word. Getting the Word out is so needed but not by Intellectual snobs.
8. Judgmental Prophets
Calling another minister a devil is not spiritual. Yelling at people as they enter meetings or screaming at them as they walk down the sidewalk that they are going to hell is not an effective way to win someone to Christ.
Knocking other forms of evangelism because they are fresh, modern, effective, or simply another way to get to the Word out is not Biblical. Jesus and the apostles used all forms of evangelism available in that day.
To some they shared one on one, others in small groups and some were relational while some were sensational.
Many shared with their families and friends while some dared go to the untouchables of their day.
God used mass evangelism, church programs, one on one, and divine appointments.
Some were challenged by Paul to look to the unknown God, whiles some were rebuked for being hypocrites. Some would say one method was "God has a wonderful plan for your life" and the other was "Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand'! One would be consider a soft approach while the other more confrontational. God used both. He still does today. Neither way left out any of the essential elements of coming to Christ. God just used the Holy Spirit to lead the messenger in what to say and when.
We need to stop judging others and simply share what God leads us to share. Never tear down another way to share Christ to elevate your favorite or preferred way.
9. Sloppy Agape Messengers
"Just believe - that's all you have to do..." "God loves you and will not send you to hell." " We all are working for the same thing." "All roads lead to heaven if you are sincere..." " Just pray this prayer and no matter what you do you are going to heaven..."
I have been to meetings where the speaker stood and shared story after story - getting the crowd emotional and then at the end simply said pray this prayer with me and God will take you to heaven and your life will be wonderful from this night on. No more problems, no more worries" He never shared the gospel. There was reference to Jesus but not the penalty for sin, plight of sinners, condition of lost, God's way to salvation, need for Christ, benefits of faith in Christ, or steps to coming to real belief and trust in Christ.
There are no magic words that save. The sinners prayer is not magical - but calling out to God in faith believing in Christ with a Godly sorrow for ones sins and a total abandonment of one's whole being to God and trust in His leading does result in salvation. One does not have to say it right, understand it all, or feel anything, Yet salvation comes to them that really believe, repent, and call on the Lord.
10. Spirit Led - Bible Fed - God Called - Servant Leaders
I am sure there are other modern day expressions of ministers that I have left out. God wants us to have faith, trust Him for our portion, win all we have a relationship with, be bold, help the needy, inspire others to greatness, know the Word, not be polluted by the world, and really know what and in whom we believe. You see there is value to many of the personalities listed above - but there is also danger. Do not follow man but God. Put your trust in Him.
Preachers of the Gospel, teachers of the Word, modern day ministers - make sure you are listening to God and following His path for your ministry. Just because someone is on television, writes books, has a following are we to imitate them. We are to follow the Messiah, Jesus. Some of my closest friends are great authors and preachers. They inspire me to go to Christ and learn from Him. They never take the credit or promote themselves. They would never want to take the Glory that belongs only to Christ. And we should never give it to them - but to Him!
God is looking for servant leaders to lead his people to the truth. He is calling many to serve Him in these last days. He is needing them to become men and women of the Book - the Bible and He is needing them to be led by the Spirit.
It is my prayer that all of us that call ourselves ministers of the Gospel would really get a fresh word from God and share it His way, at His time, with His Power. Oh, now is the time to do more, try more, and see more than ever before. We live in such a Godless and perverse generation. Let us do our part in being in Christ so that as watchmen we watch and warn just as in Bible days!
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for a fresh Word from God today then ask God for the opportunity to share His Story with someone in need.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook Crusades, Celebrations, and Festivals. God has given Keith the opportunity and privilege of sharing the message of Christ both stateside and internationally. During each opportunity, Keith presents a joyful and enthusiastic, yet powerful and clear presentation of the Gospel and a call to commitment to Christ. Love Ethiopia Festival is ongoing and God's Spirit is moving across Ethiopia this week!
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for November 1, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Who's Spirit Is In You
Who's Spirit Is In You by Keith Cook
"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)
News Event: Love Ethiopia Festival and Outreach Events. Pray for Keith, Joan, White Ribbon Day, Rick Willison, the BMX team, and other evangelists as they minister across Ethiopia! God is doing a Great and Mighty Work! Love Ethiopia Outreach Events are from October 28-November 4, 2013.
Do you know that you can have a spirit in you? You really can. In this season where the devil, witchcraft, spooks and goblins are talked about with such ease it is good to know what we are really up against as Christians.
God gives us spirits. He actually gives us a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.
We can also get a very negative and defeating spirit. This is the spirit of timidity or fear.
In our culture today it is imperative that Christians resist the spirit of fear and embrace God's spirit of love, discipline, and power. Fear is trust and faith in the Devil. That is in direct conflict with trust, which is total faith and dependence in God.
When we do not witness because of fear, we are not functioning in Christ's power.
When we are prejudice, prideful, or envious, we are not exercising our spirit of love.
When we are neglecting our devotional life or abandoning our bodies to sloth and entertainment we are rebelling against the Lord's spirit or self-discipline that He freely gives us all.
Today decide to:
1. Reject the natural and supernatural spirit of fear.
2. Embrace God's spirit of love, discipline, and power.
3. Allow Jesus to demonstrate Himself in and through you in power. Ask God to do something so awesome in your life that it is obviously Christ working in you. Chance and luck have nothing to do with it. It must be God!
4. Even now say no again to fear and the thoughts you are having as to why this will not work for you. Trust Jesus. Do it now!
Daily Prayer Focus: Focus on God's Power in you. What powerful thing does God want to do in and through you today!
On The Go Prayer Focus: Pray for On The Go's "Love Ethiopia Festival" in conjunction with the Luis Palau Evangelistic Association. Together, there will be crusade events throughout Ethiopia. The staff of On The Go Ministries will be ministering in Dire Dawa Ethiopia through November 4th. Pray with us that God will draw the lost to the events and that He will prepare their hearts for the message of the Gospel. We will try to update our website daily as we have reports. Our web address is www.onthego.org. Thanks for your prayers and support.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for October 31, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)
News Event: Love Ethiopia Festival and Outreach Events. Pray for Keith, Joan, White Ribbon Day, Rick Willison, the BMX team, and other evangelists as they minister across Ethiopia! God is doing a Great and Mighty Work! Love Ethiopia Outreach Events are from October 28-November 4, 2013.
Do you know that you can have a spirit in you? You really can. In this season where the devil, witchcraft, spooks and goblins are talked about with such ease it is good to know what we are really up against as Christians.
God gives us spirits. He actually gives us a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.
We can also get a very negative and defeating spirit. This is the spirit of timidity or fear.
In our culture today it is imperative that Christians resist the spirit of fear and embrace God's spirit of love, discipline, and power. Fear is trust and faith in the Devil. That is in direct conflict with trust, which is total faith and dependence in God.
When we do not witness because of fear, we are not functioning in Christ's power.
When we are prejudice, prideful, or envious, we are not exercising our spirit of love.
When we are neglecting our devotional life or abandoning our bodies to sloth and entertainment we are rebelling against the Lord's spirit or self-discipline that He freely gives us all.
Today decide to:
1. Reject the natural and supernatural spirit of fear.
2. Embrace God's spirit of love, discipline, and power.
3. Allow Jesus to demonstrate Himself in and through you in power. Ask God to do something so awesome in your life that it is obviously Christ working in you. Chance and luck have nothing to do with it. It must be God!
4. Even now say no again to fear and the thoughts you are having as to why this will not work for you. Trust Jesus. Do it now!
Daily Prayer Focus: Focus on God's Power in you. What powerful thing does God want to do in and through you today!
On The Go Prayer Focus: Pray for On The Go's "Love Ethiopia Festival" in conjunction with the Luis Palau Evangelistic Association. Together, there will be crusade events throughout Ethiopia. The staff of On The Go Ministries will be ministering in Dire Dawa Ethiopia through November 4th. Pray with us that God will draw the lost to the events and that He will prepare their hearts for the message of the Gospel. We will try to update our website daily as we have reports. Our web address is www.onthego.org. Thanks for your prayers and support.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for October 31, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
How To Escape From The Enemy
How To Escape From The Enemy by Keith Cook
"Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth." Psalms 124:8
Today I would like to share with you some key information on how you can escape from the enemy.
1. Know that victory and escape are possible. The Bible tells us that we can do all things through Christ who is our strength.
2. Know that your escape from the enemy is actually part of God's master plan and design for your life. The Bible also says that "with every temptation there is a way of escape," and you can find your way out if you trust in Jesus and follow His leading.
3. Know that you can escape if you are willing to get help. Your help ultimately will come from the Lord, yet the Lord may use a pastor, friend, parent, or professional with knowledge that you do not know. The Bible says in our passage that our help really comes from the Name! That name is Jesus. Let Him direct you and help you find all the help you need. He can guide you to people who can help you with your finances. He can direct you to people who would love to help you with your emotional and personal problems. The church and its ministries are vast. Gone are the days that Christians have to suffer because there is no hope of help and comfort.
4. Finally know that you can have victory over the enemy if you know the Lord is on your side. He will fight for you if you are His. How can you be His?
First. You have to make sure that all of your sins are forgiven and that they are confessed up-to-date. You may have come to Christ as a child but have wandered down many sinful and evil paths during the course of your life. To have victory you have to come clean.
Second. You also need to make sure you really believe in Jesus. Put your trust in Him, not the church, not a pastor, not a doctrine, or experience. Trust Jesus.
Third. You must make sure you have asked Jesus to be your Savior and if you have done that you must make sure you ask Him to continually be Lord in your life. Make Him the first priority. Give Him access to every area of your life.
Victory and escape from the enemy can be yours today. Reach out and take it by faith. Your victory march will be sweet!
Daily Prayer Focus: Ask God to show you areas in your life that are in bondage to the lies that the devil has tried to trap you under. Praise God that He has equipped you to fight against the enemy's strongholds and claim the victory in Christ.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook, Joan Cook, the U.S.A. Staff, and On The Go Board of Directors, as they add leadership and direction for the ongoing ministries of the Keith Cook Team and On The Go. This week our staff are ministering in Ethiopia. Praise God for the work He is doing Across The Street and Around the World.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for October 30, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2004, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth." Psalms 124:8
Today I would like to share with you some key information on how you can escape from the enemy.
1. Know that victory and escape are possible. The Bible tells us that we can do all things through Christ who is our strength.
2. Know that your escape from the enemy is actually part of God's master plan and design for your life. The Bible also says that "with every temptation there is a way of escape," and you can find your way out if you trust in Jesus and follow His leading.
3. Know that you can escape if you are willing to get help. Your help ultimately will come from the Lord, yet the Lord may use a pastor, friend, parent, or professional with knowledge that you do not know. The Bible says in our passage that our help really comes from the Name! That name is Jesus. Let Him direct you and help you find all the help you need. He can guide you to people who can help you with your finances. He can direct you to people who would love to help you with your emotional and personal problems. The church and its ministries are vast. Gone are the days that Christians have to suffer because there is no hope of help and comfort.
4. Finally know that you can have victory over the enemy if you know the Lord is on your side. He will fight for you if you are His. How can you be His?
First. You have to make sure that all of your sins are forgiven and that they are confessed up-to-date. You may have come to Christ as a child but have wandered down many sinful and evil paths during the course of your life. To have victory you have to come clean.
Second. You also need to make sure you really believe in Jesus. Put your trust in Him, not the church, not a pastor, not a doctrine, or experience. Trust Jesus.
Third. You must make sure you have asked Jesus to be your Savior and if you have done that you must make sure you ask Him to continually be Lord in your life. Make Him the first priority. Give Him access to every area of your life.
Victory and escape from the enemy can be yours today. Reach out and take it by faith. Your victory march will be sweet!
Daily Prayer Focus: Ask God to show you areas in your life that are in bondage to the lies that the devil has tried to trap you under. Praise God that He has equipped you to fight against the enemy's strongholds and claim the victory in Christ.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook, Joan Cook, the U.S.A. Staff, and On The Go Board of Directors, as they add leadership and direction for the ongoing ministries of the Keith Cook Team and On The Go. This week our staff are ministering in Ethiopia. Praise God for the work He is doing Across The Street and Around the World.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for October 30, 2013
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2004, 2013 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)