Sometimes in life you just need help. We have so much going on, we must rely on each other for support, expertise, imagination, encouragement, hard work and more.
I'm grateful to God for all the help I get from day to day. I've discovered how needy I really am.
Going it alone? No need. You'll do better with a little help.
1 Peter 1:17 (MSG)
17 You call out to God for help and he helps—he's a good Father that way. But don't forget, he's also a responsible Father, and won't let you get by with sloppy living. Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God.
Friday, 31 October 2008
Thursday, 30 October 2008
Womens Ministries
Women's ministries are right up there as some of our most critical work. Carolyn often speaks of the 2x4 or 4x2 aspect of womens ministries. That is ministry to women, by women, and for women.
I have a sense that if we gave womens ministries the attention it deserves, the Army would accelerate in an amazing way. i salute those of you in womens ministries. We need you.
Revelation 21:3 (MSG)
3 I heard a voice thunder from the Throne: "Look! Look! God has moved into the neighborhood, making his home with men and women! They're his people, he's their God.
I have a sense that if we gave womens ministries the attention it deserves, the Army would accelerate in an amazing way. i salute those of you in womens ministries. We need you.
Revelation 21:3 (MSG)
3 I heard a voice thunder from the Throne: "Look! Look! God has moved into the neighborhood, making his home with men and women! They're his people, he's their God.
Wednesday, 29 October 2008
Yes to God
Here's your answer to God: Yes!
Make it emphatic. Make it certain.
No other answer.
Only yes.
Maybe?...nope.
Later?...no way.
Yes
Revelation 22:21 (MSG)
21 The grace of the Master Jesus be with all of you. Oh, Yes!
Make it emphatic. Make it certain.
No other answer.
Only yes.
Maybe?...nope.
Later?...no way.
Yes
Revelation 22:21 (MSG)
21 The grace of the Master Jesus be with all of you. Oh, Yes!
Tuesday, 28 October 2008
Business Leaders
We're successfully experimenting with a fresh approach to networking and problem solving. Business leaders come to a SA sponsored meeting to consider a pressing social problem. Here, they learn more about what we do and make suggestions as to how we might approach the problem differently.
Tonight it worked quite well. I'm very pleased at the support we are getting and the fresh possibilities to care for people in need. "I love it when a plan comes together."
1 John 2:2 (MSG)
2 When he served as a sacrifice for our sins, he solved the sin problem for good—not only ours, but the whole world's.
Tonight it worked quite well. I'm very pleased at the support we are getting and the fresh possibilities to care for people in need. "I love it when a plan comes together."
1 John 2:2 (MSG)
2 When he served as a sacrifice for our sins, he solved the sin problem for good—not only ours, but the whole world's.
Monday, 27 October 2008
Territorial Composers and Songwriters Symposium
As a part of our hopes to "fan into flame the gift of God" among us, the Territorial Music and Creative Arts Department organised the above referenced symposium. The guest was Lt. Colonel Norman Bearcroft. he was excellent and contributed significantly.
I'm grateful to each person who attended as well as the leaders, Captains Mark and Tracey Bearcroft. It's clear that we will want to repeat the opportunity next year. Absolutely great.
Isaiah 42:10 (MSG)
10 Sing to God a brand-new song, sing his praises all over the world! Let the sea and its fish give a round of applause, with all the far-flung islands joining in.
I'm grateful to each person who attended as well as the leaders, Captains Mark and Tracey Bearcroft. It's clear that we will want to repeat the opportunity next year. Absolutely great.
Isaiah 42:10 (MSG)
10 Sing to God a brand-new song, sing his praises all over the world! Let the sea and its fish give a round of applause, with all the far-flung islands joining in.
Sunday, 26 October 2008
Music of the USA
The Waverley Temple Corps Band celebrated a special night of good music featuring the music of the USA. Selecting music from American composers and American themes, the band played quite well. One of the great items was the cornet solo Rhapsody of Negro Spirituals played by Brian Davies. Fantastic!
The Blackburn High School Intermediate Stage Band also complimented the night with multiple selections
The message of the gospel was communicated effectively last night. We were glad to be there.
Isaiah 45:7 (MSG)
7 I form light and create darkness, I make harmonies and create discords. I, God, do all these things.
The Blackburn High School Intermediate Stage Band also complimented the night with multiple selections
The message of the gospel was communicated effectively last night. We were glad to be there.
Isaiah 45:7 (MSG)
7 I form light and create darkness, I make harmonies and create discords. I, God, do all these things.
Friday, 24 October 2008
Staying the Course
There's no guarantee that the life of a believer will be without complication or concerns. The person that conveys that message is seriously misinformed.
We then, are called to persevere. Without accepting the situation, we discover ways in which we can serve the Lord with integrity in spite of the malady. The obstruction can take different forms, but we must press on with great resolve.
James 5:11 (MSG)
11 What a gift life is to those who stay the course! You've heard, of course, of Job's staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. That's because God cares, cares right down to the last detail.
We then, are called to persevere. Without accepting the situation, we discover ways in which we can serve the Lord with integrity in spite of the malady. The obstruction can take different forms, but we must press on with great resolve.
James 5:11 (MSG)
11 What a gift life is to those who stay the course! You've heard, of course, of Job's staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. That's because God cares, cares right down to the last detail.
Wednesday, 22 October 2008
Tri-Territorial Conference
Annually, the two Australian territories and the New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga Territory meet to consider matters related to the ministry of TSA in this region. Supported by Cabinet Secretaries, it is quality time well spent and productive towards Kingdom business.
The NZFT Territory have been wonderful hosts by sharing themselves and their provisions with us. They have facilitated incredibly important opportunities for mission focus and expansion. Hallelujah!
Judges 18:5 (MSG)
5 They said, "Oh, good—inquire of God for us. Find out whether our mission will be a success."
The NZFT Territory have been wonderful hosts by sharing themselves and their provisions with us. They have facilitated incredibly important opportunities for mission focus and expansion. Hallelujah!
Judges 18:5 (MSG)
5 They said, "Oh, good—inquire of God for us. Find out whether our mission will be a success."
Monday, 20 October 2008
Wellington City Corps
On Sunday night Carolyn and I enjoyed a brass concert at the Wellington City Corps in New Zealand. This is an award winning hall where we listened to a joint concert by the host corps band under the leadership of B/M Chris Collings (Star Laker) and by the Wellington South Band led by B/M Duncan Horton. The featured soloist was Mr. Rikki McDonnell. He was amazing as were the bands.
It was a full feature night with videos, power point and a wide diversity of music style. God was glorified and the audience blessed.
Psalm 96:1 (MSG)
1 Sing God a brand-new song! Earth and everyone in it, sing!
It was a full feature night with videos, power point and a wide diversity of music style. God was glorified and the audience blessed.
Psalm 96:1 (MSG)
1 Sing God a brand-new song! Earth and everyone in it, sing!
Sunday, 19 October 2008
Upper Hutt Corps
The Upper Hutt Corps is located in the Northern Island of New Zealand, just outside of the city of Wellington. We enjoyed worshiping God there this morning under the leadership of Majors Darrell and Lorraine LePine.
It's a warm corps where the folks welcomed us as brother and sister in the Lord. New Zealand is a beautiful country with genuine Salvationists witnessing to the glory of God. Again, we find the fellowship of believers to be rewarding. Hallelujah!
Acts 4:33 (MSG)
33 The apostles gave powerful witness to the resurrection of the Master Jesus, and grace was on all of them.
It's a warm corps where the folks welcomed us as brother and sister in the Lord. New Zealand is a beautiful country with genuine Salvationists witnessing to the glory of God. Again, we find the fellowship of believers to be rewarding. Hallelujah!
Acts 4:33 (MSG)
33 The apostles gave powerful witness to the resurrection of the Master Jesus, and grace was on all of them.
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Airport Chaplain
Occasionally, Carolyn and I will encounter a Salvo Airport Chaplain in our journeys. We did so recently in the Sydney Airport. As we saw her from a distance, we were impressed that she was having tea with airport staff. They were fully engaged and it was clear to us that God was at work.
When she finished her conversation, we, on furlough and not in uniforms, simply introduced ourselves as Melbournian Salvos. She immediately recognised us and we, by her name tag, met Commissioner Verna Skinner. Never having met before, but having heard plenty about her life and ministry, we saw this as a great opportunity to connect and get to know her a little. Her visit was a gift from God. She was gracious, forthright and blessed us with prayer. Thank you, Lord, for this faithful servant.
Luke 4:32 (MSG)
32 They were surprised and impressed—his teaching was so forthright, so confident, so authoritative, not the quibbling and quoting they were used to.
When she finished her conversation, we, on furlough and not in uniforms, simply introduced ourselves as Melbournian Salvos. She immediately recognised us and we, by her name tag, met Commissioner Verna Skinner. Never having met before, but having heard plenty about her life and ministry, we saw this as a great opportunity to connect and get to know her a little. Her visit was a gift from God. She was gracious, forthright and blessed us with prayer. Thank you, Lord, for this faithful servant.
Luke 4:32 (MSG)
32 They were surprised and impressed—his teaching was so forthright, so confident, so authoritative, not the quibbling and quoting they were used to.
Tuesday, 14 October 2008
God's Creation
While I'm convinced that humankind is the apex of God's creation, I admit that the scenery in New Zealand is extraordinary. God did make all of this for us to enjoy and I certainly am.
After Two days, were finding the New Zealanders are friendly and welcoming to foreigners. We've even seen a number of Sallie operations. It's a good journey so far. Everywhere we turn we see the glory of God. Hallelujah!
John 11:40 (MSG)
40 Jesus looked her in the eye. "Didn't I tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
After Two days, were finding the New Zealanders are friendly and welcoming to foreigners. We've even seen a number of Sallie operations. It's a good journey so far. Everywhere we turn we see the glory of God. Hallelujah!
John 11:40 (MSG)
40 Jesus looked her in the eye. "Didn't I tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
Monday, 13 October 2008
Parramatta Corps
It's a distinct privilege to step into the pulpit of a corps in TSA. Such was my joy this past Sunday afternoon at the Parramatta Corps in the Australia Eastern Territory. On the occasion of the Celebration of Life Service for Commissioner Crystal Campbell, Major Mark Campbell (related by Christ) allowed me to give the message. Thank you, mate.
The corps band was on duty and contributed to the celebration with their selections and leading the singing. I have a sense that this is a wonderful corps from the corps members who made us feel very welcome and right at home. Anywhere in the world, you can feel like you belong at the Army.
1 John 4:6 (MSG)
6 But we come from God and belong to God. Anyone who knows God understands us and listens. The person who has nothing to do with God will, of course, not listen to us. This is another test for telling the Spirit of Truth from the spirit of deception.
The corps band was on duty and contributed to the celebration with their selections and leading the singing. I have a sense that this is a wonderful corps from the corps members who made us feel very welcome and right at home. Anywhere in the world, you can feel like you belong at the Army.
1 John 4:6 (MSG)
6 But we come from God and belong to God. Anyone who knows God understands us and listens. The person who has nothing to do with God will, of course, not listen to us. This is another test for telling the Spirit of Truth from the spirit of deception.
Sunday, 12 October 2008
Hong Kong Staff Band
The Hong Kong Staff Band was on duty this weekend in the course of the Australia National Chinese Congress. We enjoyed their ministry this morning as they supported the worship meeting quite well.
The fellowship of Staff Bandsmen or Bandpersons is a unique, but welcomed fraternity. I'm always blessed to be in the company of these musicians and am convinced more and more of the significance of their ministry. Thank you, Hong Kong Staff Band for your faithful ministry this weekend. God bless you.
1 John 2:14 (MSG)
14 You veterans know the One who started it all; and you newcomers—such vitality and strength! God's word is so steady in you. Your fellowship with God enables you to gain a victory over the Evil One.
The fellowship of Staff Bandsmen or Bandpersons is a unique, but welcomed fraternity. I'm always blessed to be in the company of these musicians and am convinced more and more of the significance of their ministry. Thank you, Hong Kong Staff Band for your faithful ministry this weekend. God bless you.
1 John 2:14 (MSG)
14 You veterans know the One who started it all; and you newcomers—such vitality and strength! God's word is so steady in you. Your fellowship with God enables you to gain a victory over the Evil One.
Saturday, 11 October 2008
Commissioner Crystal Campbell
Commissioner Crystal Campbell was promoted to glory this week. We rejoice for her and share the personal pain of her family and friends. At her private funeral today there were many in the family who spoke on her behalf and Craig, her son gave the message. It was a good word from the Lord.
Tomorrow we share in her service of Celebration open to all who would like to come. It's at the Parramatta Corps, here in the Eastern Territory. We're expecting a wonderful time of remembrance and victory. Please be in prayer for this good family and in particular Commissioner Donald Campbell.
Proverbs 31:31 (MSG)
31 Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her life with praises!
Tomorrow we share in her service of Celebration open to all who would like to come. It's at the Parramatta Corps, here in the Eastern Territory. We're expecting a wonderful time of remembrance and victory. Please be in prayer for this good family and in particular Commissioner Donald Campbell.
Proverbs 31:31 (MSG)
31 Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her life with praises!
Friday, 10 October 2008
Australian National Chinese Congress
For the first time ever, the above referenced congress has begun at the Collaroy Centre, just north of Sydney. We are graced with the presence and participation of the International Secretaries for SPEA, Commissioners Barry and Raemor Pobjie.
The keynote meeting tonight included the ministry of many, but in particular, Major Sam Pho who gave a powerful message from Acts, chapter one. Hallelujah!
They're off to a good start and we were blessed to be there.
Acts 1:11 (MSG)
11 They said, "You Galileans!—why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly—and mysteriously—as he left."
The keynote meeting tonight included the ministry of many, but in particular, Major Sam Pho who gave a powerful message from Acts, chapter one. Hallelujah!
They're off to a good start and we were blessed to be there.
Acts 1:11 (MSG)
11 They said, "You Galileans!—why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly—and mysteriously—as he left."
Thursday, 9 October 2008
Counsel
We seek the counsel of many experts in the course of the day. Some of these relationships are professional and others are casual. In the office, we might speak with attorneys, doctors, architects, psychologists, retired officers and any number of high level professionals.
Advice comes in many forms. How do you really know if the counsel is worthy or dependable? Of course, you first consider the source. Does the person have recognised qualifications? Have you received trustworthy counsel from this person before? Does the person prove the counsel in his or her life?
And what about the person's faith? Sometimes we take advice about the most precious decisions in life from people who aren't connected to the Lord. I've discovered that when we seek the appropriate counsel I'm likely to make a better decision.
James 1:25 (MSG)
25 But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action.
Advice comes in many forms. How do you really know if the counsel is worthy or dependable? Of course, you first consider the source. Does the person have recognised qualifications? Have you received trustworthy counsel from this person before? Does the person prove the counsel in his or her life?
And what about the person's faith? Sometimes we take advice about the most precious decisions in life from people who aren't connected to the Lord. I've discovered that when we seek the appropriate counsel I'm likely to make a better decision.
James 1:25 (MSG)
25 But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action.
Wednesday, 8 October 2008
T3
The youth and children's departments of the Australasian territories met in conference this week in Melbourne. Russell Rook and the Nolands were on hand to support the team as they considered their respective ministries and God's intentions among them.
To a person they were engaging, interesting and full on in serving Christ. I can see why we trust our young people to them. We need to lift these people before the Lord. They hold the future in their hands.
1 Peter 1:5 (MSG)
5 God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all—life healed and whole.
To a person they were engaging, interesting and full on in serving Christ. I can see why we trust our young people to them. We need to lift these people before the Lord. They hold the future in their hands.
1 Peter 1:5 (MSG)
5 God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all—life healed and whole.
Tuesday, 7 October 2008
Training College Review
Yesterday we conducted the review of the Training College, here in Melbourne. It is the second oldest Training College in TSA and is celebrating their 125th anniversary. Capably led by Captain Stephen Court with the complete team of officers, employees and volunteers, it is one of the finest expressions of training for officers in the world.
The review proved that their work reached most of their goals and surpassed many in new and creative ways. The Cadets are experiencing a dynamic array of battle conditions and academic advancement in the proper context of required competencies officer training. They are learning well and are a credit to TSA. Hallelujah!
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.
The review proved that their work reached most of their goals and surpassed many in new and creative ways. The Cadets are experiencing a dynamic array of battle conditions and academic advancement in the proper context of required competencies officer training. They are learning well and are a credit to TSA. Hallelujah!
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, 5 October 2008
Box Hill Corps
We soldier at Box Hill Corps and enjoy it immensely. Today we participated more than usual. Carolyn gave the message at the 9:30 meeting and I did so at the 11:00 meeting. Both meetings were a blessing before we even stepped up to do our part.
We thank God for such opportunities to worship the Lord. He remains faithful and brings delight to our hearts. May His spirit of joy permeate your soul today.
Joshua 1:9 (MSG)
9 Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take."
We thank God for such opportunities to worship the Lord. He remains faithful and brings delight to our hearts. May His spirit of joy permeate your soul today.
Joshua 1:9 (MSG)
9 Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take."
Saturday, 4 October 2008
God is at work
This has been a great week around here. God, again has met us and influenced us through and through. I have seen lives change and families strengthened. I have witnessed renewed commitment to God as well as first time covenants made too. my own soul is refreshed by being in His presence. Thank you, Lord.
I can hardly wait for tomorrow. He will interact with us again and again. Hallelujah!
1 Samuel 25:28 (MSG)
28 "Forgive my presumption! But God is at work in my master, developing a rule solid and dependable. My master fights God's battles! As long as you live no evil will stick to you.
I can hardly wait for tomorrow. He will interact with us again and again. Hallelujah!
1 Samuel 25:28 (MSG)
28 "Forgive my presumption! But God is at work in my master, developing a rule solid and dependable. My master fights God's battles! As long as you live no evil will stick to you.
Friday, 3 October 2008
ACC Finals
Russell Rook reminded us tonight that in the end, there's resurrection. Hallelujah!
So the Aggressive Christianity Conference at the Box Hill Corps concluded tonight with a resurrection message that breathed life into us all. Thank you each for your prayers. God has heard us and answered with the affirmative.
Thank you John Evans, Envoy Sonia Jeffrey and Captain David Collinson for jobs well done. Here's where they would say that there was a large cast of supporters who pulled all together, and they would be right.
The church has left the building!
Matthew 28:19 (MSG)
19 Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
So the Aggressive Christianity Conference at the Box Hill Corps concluded tonight with a resurrection message that breathed life into us all. Thank you each for your prayers. God has heard us and answered with the affirmative.
Thank you John Evans, Envoy Sonia Jeffrey and Captain David Collinson for jobs well done. Here's where they would say that there was a large cast of supporters who pulled all together, and they would be right.
The church has left the building!
Matthew 28:19 (MSG)
19 Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Thursday, 2 October 2008
ACC Heating Up
With each day, the spiritual fervor of ACC is increasing. I sensed tonight that God is exposing the enemy for who he is. With that, God is healing hearts and holding souls in his precious hands. He is revealing Himself openly and deeply. Deep is calling to deep.
Commissioner Joe Noland spoke tonight about creative and adaptive ways to serve the Lord. He's capable in content and in presentation. The music has been inspiring as well. John Evans has been leading much of the meetings with grace and intentional direction. Well done, John. Come if you can.
Romans 5:20 (MSG)
20 All that passing laws against sin did was produce more lawbreakers. But sin didn't, and doesn't, have a chance in competition with the aggressive forgiveness we call grace. When it's sin versus grace, grace wins hands down.
Commissioner Joe Noland spoke tonight about creative and adaptive ways to serve the Lord. He's capable in content and in presentation. The music has been inspiring as well. John Evans has been leading much of the meetings with grace and intentional direction. Well done, John. Come if you can.
Romans 5:20 (MSG)
20 All that passing laws against sin did was produce more lawbreakers. But sin didn't, and doesn't, have a chance in competition with the aggressive forgiveness we call grace. When it's sin versus grace, grace wins hands down.
Wednesday, 1 October 2008
Worshiping God
Worshiping God is a great delight and a thrill for my soul. We can draw near to Him and celebrate His love prominently. When we meet together in this way, we have the opportunity to draw closer to each other as well. It's a privilege.
We were able to step into worship tonight again at the Aggressive Christianity Conference. Major Brendan Nottle gave the Word in power and in truth. He is an anointed servant of the Lord. Hallelujah!
There's more to come. Will we see you there?
Genesis 24:26 (MSG)
26 At this the man bowed in worship before God
We were able to step into worship tonight again at the Aggressive Christianity Conference. Major Brendan Nottle gave the Word in power and in truth. He is an anointed servant of the Lord. Hallelujah!
There's more to come. Will we see you there?
Genesis 24:26 (MSG)
26 At this the man bowed in worship before God
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