The four DVD set is now available and will be coming soon to a corps near you. They represent the Boundless Salvation of God in the early days of the Army right to the present. They focus upon History, Doctrine, Culture and Mission. Congratulations to Mr. John Cleary and his team for such an historic opportunity in our movement. The setting tonight was at the 614 New Life Centre in Melbourne. This is the exact location of the first movie company in Australia: the Limelight Brigade of The Salvation Army.
I'm very proud for this group of dedicated historians and videographers. They have produced and excellent work complete with a study guide. Thank you each for your good work in the name of Christ.
Psalms 147:5 (TLB)
5 How great he is! His power is absolute! His understanding is unlimited.
Monday, 30 June 2008
Sunday, 29 June 2008
Overwork
It is possible to overwork. We use the term workaholic when a person seems to make work their life. Some are defined by their work.
I do believe that a strong work ethic is a constructive thing, but there is a limit. Some people suffer burn-out as a result of the stress of work. The effects can be debilitating. We do need to find a balance in life that will support the balance of our thinking and actions.
Let's be prepared to die for God, but not kill ourselves in the process.
Philippians 4:5 (NLT)
5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
I do believe that a strong work ethic is a constructive thing, but there is a limit. Some people suffer burn-out as a result of the stress of work. The effects can be debilitating. We do need to find a balance in life that will support the balance of our thinking and actions.
Let's be prepared to die for God, but not kill ourselves in the process.
Philippians 4:5 (NLT)
5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
Saturday, 28 June 2008
Young Adults
I'm not sure if the twenty-somethings appreciate the term, young adults. Labels, generally don't work completely. I enjoyed brekkie with a good group of such individuals this morning from the Melbourne Central Division. They are terrific and we enjoyed dialogue on many different subjects. It was amazing how quickly we entered into some deep discussion, over breakfast.
I'm convinced that God is anointing a new wave of young adults for the mission of His Kingdom. We're seeing them here, there and everywhere. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)
12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
I'm convinced that God is anointing a new wave of young adults for the mission of His Kingdom. We're seeing them here, there and everywhere. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)
12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
Friday, 27 June 2008
Drought Relief Trailer
Not unlike the 614 Bus that visits the neighbourhoods of homeless youth, we now have a specially designed trailer (and cab) to reach out to drought affected communities and their children and youth. It is the result of a close relationship between TSA and the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria. Mr. John Isaac, president of RACV was present for the dedication today, along with many Northern Victorians. It was a joy to watch the children and youth enter the trailer for the first time and take advantage of the equipment and space.
Congratulations to all, especially Major Lyn Cochrane, our Territorial Drought Relief Coordinator. Job well done.
Matthew 22:39 (NIV)
39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'
Congratulations to all, especially Major Lyn Cochrane, our Territorial Drought Relief Coordinator. Job well done.
Matthew 22:39 (NIV)
39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'
Thursday, 26 June 2008
Northern Victoria Division 3
The Annual Review of the Northern Victoria Division has revealed the movement of God among us. In undeniable terms He is showing His love and leadership of the Army in this great area of ministry.
Among many other indicators, it is a delight to see that Sunday morning meeting attendances are at a ten year high and soldierships are up as well. Hallelujah!
Northern Victoria, a beautiful place to live and serve God.
Deuteronomy 30:9 (NLT)
9 “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors.
Among many other indicators, it is a delight to see that Sunday morning meeting attendances are at a ten year high and soldierships are up as well. Hallelujah!
Northern Victoria, a beautiful place to live and serve God.
Deuteronomy 30:9 (NLT)
9 “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors.
Wednesday, 25 June 2008
Life blood
Flowing through your veins and arteries is your life blood. I choose to express it as life blood so as to emphasize the nature of blood. It contains and sustains life. Without it we're lost. When it is tainted, we're in trouble. It carries oxygen, nourishment healing and much more.
Jesus shed His blood for you, me, and everyone on the cross of calvary. His blood covers our sins and makes us right before God, who loves us and who judges us. Eternity is one of the realities in the balance based upon His provision and our hope and love in Him. This is life blood.
Romans 3:25 (NLT)
25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past,
Jesus shed His blood for you, me, and everyone on the cross of calvary. His blood covers our sins and makes us right before God, who loves us and who judges us. Eternity is one of the realities in the balance based upon His provision and our hope and love in Him. This is life blood.
Romans 3:25 (NLT)
25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past,
Tuesday, 24 June 2008
Ringwood Musicians
The Band and Songsters of the Ringwood Corps are supporting the Rochester, Victoria Corps to celebrate the 120th Anniversary of TSA in Rochester. Carolyn and I plan to be there as well. We joined in the music rehearsals tonight to share in devotions to prepare for the trip.
The Spirit of God is prevalent in the members of the group who will undoubtedly minister effectively to fellow Salvos and others. I'm looking forward to a powerful time of fellowship, music and the presence of God. Hallelujah!
Judges 5:11 (NLT)
11 Listen to the village musicians gathered at the watering holes. They recount the righteous victories of the Lord and the victories of his villagers in Israel. Then the people of the Lord marched down to the city gates.
The Spirit of God is prevalent in the members of the group who will undoubtedly minister effectively to fellow Salvos and others. I'm looking forward to a powerful time of fellowship, music and the presence of God. Hallelujah!
Judges 5:11 (NLT)
11 Listen to the village musicians gathered at the watering holes. They recount the righteous victories of the Lord and the victories of his villagers in Israel. Then the people of the Lord marched down to the city gates.
Monday, 23 June 2008
Goin' through the hoops
The Salvation Army basketball programme (SABAV) enjoyed their championship games tonight. We were there for much of it and enjoyed every minute. Congratulations on all who participated.
The essence of a good team is the team itself. Basketball is helped by an individual's effort, but a good team will always succeed beyond the individual.
Why not team up to bring others to Christ? Although not a game, there's a principle here that just might help.
2 Corinthians 6:14 (NLT)
14 Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?
The essence of a good team is the team itself. Basketball is helped by an individual's effort, but a good team will always succeed beyond the individual.
Why not team up to bring others to Christ? Although not a game, there's a principle here that just might help.
2 Corinthians 6:14 (NLT)
14 Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?
Sunday, 22 June 2008
Preston Corps
With holy precision, the Preston Corps has begun a series on what has become known as "the Dream." The dream was published as a book in the territory called, "One Day, a vision for the Australia Southern Territory." I was able to give a little more background on the vision statements contained in the work.
The 33 Salvos who contributed to the book ably expanded each vision statement with clarity and ownership in each of the chapters. That's a job well done. Hallelujah!
Philippians 1:27 (MSG)
27 Meanwhile, live in such a way that you are a credit to the Message of Christ. Let nothing in your conduct hang on whether I come or not. Your conduct must be the same whether I show up to see things for myself or hear of it from a distance. Stand united, singular in vision, contending for people's trust in the Message, the good news,
The 33 Salvos who contributed to the book ably expanded each vision statement with clarity and ownership in each of the chapters. That's a job well done. Hallelujah!
Philippians 1:27 (MSG)
27 Meanwhile, live in such a way that you are a credit to the Message of Christ. Let nothing in your conduct hang on whether I come or not. Your conduct must be the same whether I show up to see things for myself or hear of it from a distance. Stand united, singular in vision, contending for people's trust in the Message, the good news,
Saturday, 21 June 2008
The Right Order
Can we at least understand the right order if we are in relationships with the opposite gender?
1. Meet
2. Get to know each other (some relationships hold here)
3. Fall in love
4. Marriage
5. Sexual Intimacy
6. Happily ever after
Many get the order mixed up. This is the order God has in mind. If you can do it this way, you'll undoubtedly be advantaged.
1 Corinthians 14:40 (NLT)
40 But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.
1. Meet
2. Get to know each other (some relationships hold here)
3. Fall in love
4. Marriage
5. Sexual Intimacy
6. Happily ever after
Many get the order mixed up. This is the order God has in mind. If you can do it this way, you'll undoubtedly be advantaged.
1 Corinthians 14:40 (NLT)
40 But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.
Friday, 20 June 2008
Melbourne College of Divinity
The Training College is a part of the Melbourne College of Divinity. It is this good academic body that supervises our accreditation. We have a valuable and God honouring relationship.
The standards at the Training College are also monitored by TSA in many forms and practices. I believe our school is a great programme and is a credit to God, TSA and the territory. The best test of the Training College is the standard of our officers, commissioned to service as a result of the ministry of the Training College.
I salute all of our officers and staff at the Training College and those supporters in the Melbourne College of Divinity. Hallelujah!
2 Timothy 2:15 (MSG)
15 Concentrate on doing your best for God, work you won't be ashamed of, laying out the truth plain and simple.
The standards at the Training College are also monitored by TSA in many forms and practices. I believe our school is a great programme and is a credit to God, TSA and the territory. The best test of the Training College is the standard of our officers, commissioned to service as a result of the ministry of the Training College.
I salute all of our officers and staff at the Training College and those supporters in the Melbourne College of Divinity. Hallelujah!
2 Timothy 2:15 (MSG)
15 Concentrate on doing your best for God, work you won't be ashamed of, laying out the truth plain and simple.
Thursday, 19 June 2008
Gratitude to God
This is a perfect day to thank God. You can do it in many ways. You can speak with Him in prayer. You can thank Him by serving Him. You can thank Him by worshiping Him. You can thank Him all day and anywhere.
What is it, do you suppose, that you do that expresses gratitude? Do you do this often? Did you thank Him yet today? Will you?
I thank God for His care. He leaves none of us out. He knows what we need. He blesses us with His closeness. Thank you, Lord.
1 Chronicles 16:34 (MSG)
34 Give thanks to God—he is good and his love never quits.
What is it, do you suppose, that you do that expresses gratitude? Do you do this often? Did you thank Him yet today? Will you?
I thank God for His care. He leaves none of us out. He knows what we need. He blesses us with His closeness. Thank you, Lord.
1 Chronicles 16:34 (MSG)
34 Give thanks to God—he is good and his love never quits.
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
SAGALA
For the uninformed, SAGALA stands for Salvation Army Group and Legion Activities. They are minimally active in the territory, but quite valuable where they are active. Major Mim Adams is the territorial representative of these programmes. Today's SAGALA is contemporary, exciting and worth checking out. Why not do so? I'm told it's becoming a great transition for children growing out of Mainly Music.
Our children deserve this kind of attention. Don't be quick to apply your memory of these programmes in the past discourage you from looking into them today.
Matthew 19:14 (MSG)
14 But Jesus intervened: "Let the children alone, don't prevent them from coming to me. God's kingdom is made up of people like these."
Our children deserve this kind of attention. Don't be quick to apply your memory of these programmes in the past discourage you from looking into them today.
Matthew 19:14 (MSG)
14 But Jesus intervened: "Let the children alone, don't prevent them from coming to me. God's kingdom is made up of people like these."
Tuesday, 17 June 2008
John Cleary
Salvationist radio host, John Cleary spoke to the Wider Cabinet today with clarity and authenticity. He challenged us with a historic perspective on our beloved Army, its impact on today and tomorrow. In many ways it's a wake up call that's critically needed as we consider the way forward in the territory.
Soon, he will be releasing the Boundless Salvation Project, a collection of DVD documentaries on TSA. Look for it when it comes out. It will be worth your time.
Romans 3:26 (MSG)
26 This is not only clear, but it's now—this is current history! God sets things right. He also makes it possible for us to live in his rightness.
Soon, he will be releasing the Boundless Salvation Project, a collection of DVD documentaries on TSA. Look for it when it comes out. It will be worth your time.
Romans 3:26 (MSG)
26 This is not only clear, but it's now—this is current history! God sets things right. He also makes it possible for us to live in his rightness.
Monday, 16 June 2008
Worship the Lord
Colonel Robert Redhead addressed the Wider Cabinet today on the subject of worship. He reminded us of our joys and responsibilities in worshiping God. His subject matter is flawless and his demeanor was thoroughly convincing.
In all, we learn that worship is a matter of the heart. Undoubtedly, this is the proper point of approach to God in worship. I'm glad. All of us can qualify and worship God in spirit and in truth. Hallelujah!
Luke 4:8 (NRSV)
8 Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.'"
In all, we learn that worship is a matter of the heart. Undoubtedly, this is the proper point of approach to God in worship. I'm glad. All of us can qualify and worship God in spirit and in truth. Hallelujah!
Luke 4:8 (NRSV)
8 Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.'"
Sunday, 15 June 2008
Envoys
With the transition of the Lieutenants rank, we have increased our population of Envoys in the territory. Many of them came this weekend to the Geelong Conference Centre for a retreat and reorientation opportunity. Each of them are beautifully committed and serving full on in officer appointments. With the continuing shortage of officers, we wouldn't be doing nearly as well without them. This is, without question, a good form of service by great people.
Looking for such an opportunity? Seek the Lord and speak with your Divisional Commander. Let's see what God has in mind.
Proverbs 13:17 (NIV)
17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.
Looking for such an opportunity? Seek the Lord and speak with your Divisional Commander. Let's see what God has in mind.
Proverbs 13:17 (NIV)
17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.
Friday, 13 June 2008
CSM Tony Foster
The Corps Sargent Major of the Hobart, Tasmania Corps is Tony Foster. Since we've been in the territory and going to Tasmania, we are regularly blessed by the Tony's faithful service and constant witness. His example of Salvationism is exemplary and Christlike. If you want to be a leader in the corps, pay attention to CSM Tony Foster, a hero.
Loved ones, there are heroes among us. Pay attention...and maybe let them know how they are reflecting the glory of God. Hallelujah!
1 Peter 2:12 (MSG)
12 Live an exemplary life among the natives so that your actions will refute their prejudices. Then they'll be won over to God's side and be there to join in the celebration when he arrives.
Loved ones, there are heroes among us. Pay attention...and maybe let them know how they are reflecting the glory of God. Hallelujah!
1 Peter 2:12 (MSG)
12 Live an exemplary life among the natives so that your actions will refute their prejudices. Then they'll be won over to God's side and be there to join in the celebration when he arrives.
Thursday, 12 June 2008
Officers Fellowship
There's much to be said for Officers Fellowships. We've enjoyed our time with the officers of the Western Australia Division. We've prayed together, praised God together, and read His Word together. It's been worth every minute.
All of us need the fellowship of believers. It's here that we can enjoy the presence of God and celebrate His love in comparable ways. God not only draws us together, He draws us close to Him. I recommend the getting together.
Psalms 100:2 (NIV)
2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
All of us need the fellowship of believers. It's here that we can enjoy the presence of God and celebrate His love in comparable ways. God not only draws us together, He draws us close to Him. I recommend the getting together.
Psalms 100:2 (NIV)
2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
Tuesday, 10 June 2008
Western Australia
As a part of the Australia Southern Territory, the state division of Western Australia is quite remarkable. The people here, love it here and it's not hard to see why. It's just beautiful.
The SA is just as special. There's a friendliness here that is most desirable and Christlike. God is being honoured here by faithful servants who worship the Lord with joy and perseverance. Hallelujah!
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
The SA is just as special. There's a friendliness here that is most desirable and Christlike. God is being honoured here by faithful servants who worship the Lord with joy and perseverance. Hallelujah!
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Monday, 9 June 2008
The Word of God
The Bible is the written Word of God. It is here where we learn the love of God, His ways and our joys in following Him. We can read accounts of His interaction with His creation and the careful way in which He provides for us.
We learn of Jesus and His death on the cross of Calvary, We observe the discovery of His resurrection and the value it has for each of us who believe.
In the Word we begin to understand our role in His plan and how He has prepared a place for us in eternity.
Read the Word. Study its contents and learn to know the Creator. God will bless you as you do.
2 Timothy 3:16 (MSG)
16 Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way.
We learn of Jesus and His death on the cross of Calvary, We observe the discovery of His resurrection and the value it has for each of us who believe.
In the Word we begin to understand our role in His plan and how He has prepared a place for us in eternity.
Read the Word. Study its contents and learn to know the Creator. God will bless you as you do.
2 Timothy 3:16 (MSG)
16 Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way.
Sunday, 8 June 2008
Perth Fortress
Thank you Holy Spirit for moving through the corps today at Perth Fortress. You spoke through the different parts of the meeting this morning and through Carolyn's message.
Tonight, in the city wide rally you again triumphed with so many in the house seeking your grace. Hallelujah!
This is a great part of the territory. The people are wonderful and receptive to the leading of God. I'm honoured to be a Salvationist.
Matthew 14:33 (MSG)
33 The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, "This is it! You are God's Son for sure!"
Tonight, in the city wide rally you again triumphed with so many in the house seeking your grace. Hallelujah!
This is a great part of the territory. The people are wonderful and receptive to the leading of God. I'm honoured to be a Salvationist.
Matthew 14:33 (MSG)
33 The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, "This is it! You are God's Son for sure!"
Wednesday, 4 June 2008
Always seeking God
Don't give up seeking God. Continue to check every aspect of your life in comparison to what God is saying. He never changes, nor does His word. Our lives are so dynamic that we tend to see things differently at different points in our lives.
There are some things I have held to firmly as a young man that have taken a turn in my understanding. Maturity and life's experiences in the context of a deeper relationship with God have shaped me.
Consider the different place of people in their journey when relating to them. Just maybe they're only getting to where you are or passed that point a while ago.
Hence, always seeking God is the way to Go.
Matthew 6:33 (MSG)
33 Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
There are some things I have held to firmly as a young man that have taken a turn in my understanding. Maturity and life's experiences in the context of a deeper relationship with God have shaped me.
Consider the different place of people in their journey when relating to them. Just maybe they're only getting to where you are or passed that point a while ago.
Hence, always seeking God is the way to Go.
Matthew 6:33 (MSG)
33 Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
Tuesday, 3 June 2008
Creative Ideas
I love it when things have just become commonplace and someone enters with a creative idea. Yes.
I think it takes a mind free from excessive anxiety and distraction to contribute in this way. Perhaps we should do what we can to free up our thinking for creative ideas. The subjects that need such support are unlimited...evangelism, mission integration, communicating grace...approaching a culture that prefers not to acknowledge the Lord...engaging a grieving family...leading a young life in the right direction...empowering a believer to act in faith...and more.
Jesus has always been a part of creation. He would be a great support in creating ideas.
John 1:3 (MSG)
3 Everything was created through him; nothing—not one thing!— came into being without him.
I think it takes a mind free from excessive anxiety and distraction to contribute in this way. Perhaps we should do what we can to free up our thinking for creative ideas. The subjects that need such support are unlimited...evangelism, mission integration, communicating grace...approaching a culture that prefers not to acknowledge the Lord...engaging a grieving family...leading a young life in the right direction...empowering a believer to act in faith...and more.
Jesus has always been a part of creation. He would be a great support in creating ideas.
John 1:3 (MSG)
3 Everything was created through him; nothing—not one thing!— came into being without him.
Monday, 2 June 2008
Security
Around the world, security is at an all time high. The treachery and cowardice of terrorists who send even the innocent to prey upon the innocent has forced the civilised to guard themselves. For this reason, we are caused to sacrifice certain freedoms that have always been ours. They are led by the enemy of enemies who has no regard for life.
For those who are human in this battle, God has made a way for redemption. The way is more powerful than any explosive and more strategic than laser guidance. The way is close to God. The way is His Son who has paid the ultimate price for all of our freedom and is free to us for the believing. His name is Jesus. Only in Him will we be really secure.
Ezekiel 37:26 (MSG)
26 I'll make a covenant of peace with them that will hold everything together, an everlasting covenant. I'll make them secure and place my holy place of worship at the center of their lives forever.
For those who are human in this battle, God has made a way for redemption. The way is more powerful than any explosive and more strategic than laser guidance. The way is close to God. The way is His Son who has paid the ultimate price for all of our freedom and is free to us for the believing. His name is Jesus. Only in Him will we be really secure.
Ezekiel 37:26 (MSG)
26 I'll make a covenant of peace with them that will hold everything together, an everlasting covenant. I'll make them secure and place my holy place of worship at the center of their lives forever.
Sunday, 1 June 2008
Candidates' Seminar
Majors Len and Marney Turner organised a powerful weekend at the Geelong Conference Centre. In worship of the Lord this morning, we saw God at work, encouraging individuals and couples to follow Jesus. Hallelujah!
We cannot downplay the need for officers in TSA. That starts with candidates for officership. Thank you, Lord for these who gathered to consider your grace and direction in their lives. May their journey glorify you.
Matthew 4:19 (NIV)
19 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."
We cannot downplay the need for officers in TSA. That starts with candidates for officership. Thank you, Lord for these who gathered to consider your grace and direction in their lives. May their journey glorify you.
Matthew 4:19 (NIV)
19 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."
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