Qualified But Not Authorized

How many people do you know are a qualified candidate for a title but for some reason was not chosen?

How many of US are qualified for a title, selected for a position but really not authorized to carry that position? In a lot of situations and circumstances, I find this to be the case.

Just because a person has all the right credentials and degrees, the eloquent speech and words that seem to sound true; have all the right moves and does everything that seems to be in line with God's will, does not authorize them for that position.

Let's take preaching the Gospel & prophecy for example:
The words tells us this: And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! Romans 10:15

Are you really sent or did you appoint yourself to preach the Gospel and rightly divide the Word of Truth??? Check out Matthew 10:1

Let's take it a step further...

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are (the) called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing (righteousness) with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.

Are you qualified and not authorized?

Let's go deeper...

He (God) is against these false prophets who steal messages from each other and claim they are from God. Yes, He is against these smooth-tongued prophets who say this prophecy is from the Lord. Indeed, I am against those who prophesy false dreams and spew flagrant lies that lead God's people into sin. I did not send them nor authorize them and they have no message at all for My people. False prophets leading God's people astray with their reckless lies. God did not appoint them and as a result, God's people do not benefit from their false prophecy. Jeremiah 23:30-32

If any prophet, priest, or anyone else says they have a prophecy from the Lord, God will punish that person along with their entire family. Jeremiah 23:34

Check out the lives of these prophets that profess to live for God. These "so called" prophets prophecy over others and can't prophecy over themselves effectively??? The word tells us that we will know them by their fruits...

Are you producing any fruit? If so, what kind?

Not all of us with prosper at the same time but we should prosper in some way. God's people will suffer such as Christ suffered but as we share in His sufferings we also share in His blessings. That's God's promise.

I have often asked God why the children of God who attend worship every week, touch and agree with other Believers and still live in bondage. Well, it's the "under-shepherd that covers the sheep. I know it is the responsibility of individuall to seek God for themselves but when you join a Body of Christ and connect to the real "men and women of God", you should be able to witness God's blessing upon the under-shepherd and the sheep. NO we are not to covet but enjoy our own blessings - be it big or small. As I grow in the knowledge and wisdom of God's word, I can see clearly now why there is no real spiritual growth and delayed blessings with God's people when dealing with some churches because they house 'prophets' whom have NOT been called (sent) by God. The best kept secret is to try the spirit by the spirit0- then you will know for sure, who's real and who's faking it.

If what a prophet proclaims, in the name of the Lord, does not take place or come true, that is a message the Lord has not spoken. That prophet has spoken presumptuously. Does that prophet call for repentance; for holiness and loyalty to Christ? Or is he/she scratching some itching ears?

So, I ask again...are you just qualified or are you really authorized to speak on behalf of God???

Deuteronomy 13:1-3 "If a prophet who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a miraculous sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder of which he/she has spoken takes place, and he/she says, 'Let's follow gods you have not known and let us worship them,' you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love HIM with all your heart and with all your soul" or if you are completely relying on what has been proven by your finite eye-sight?

Now, let's bring it on home: Matthew 24:3-5,10-11 Jesus is questioned: when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age? Jesus answered, "Watch out that no one deceives you, for many will come in my name; at that time many will turn away from the faith and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people."

Ephesians 5:6 - Do not let anyone deceive you with empty arguments: it is for this loose living that God's wrath comes down on those who rebel against him. Make sure you are not included with them. Check out Ephesians 5:11!!!

My advice is to get away from these fakers and shakers and connect with the authorized prophets - those called by God Himself. I know "they" seem real...the strange tongues...the sincere and humble looking & walk...the jerking and crying...the testa-lies and propha-lies...all looks and sounds convincing but it's all SMOKE! Once the smoke dissipates, you will clearly see that it was mimicked and copied replicas of real prophets. And, please refrain from arguments and proving your declaration; just keep on living, watching, fighting and praying that God will protect the innocent, the seekers; that they find Jesus and quickly and put all of their faith and trust in God and God alone.

Qualified but not authorized??? Be sure to connect with an "authorized agent" of God. Yes, the quality of a prophet may be there but it's the authorized prophet that has access to the heavenly realm as we dwell on earth. The real prophets, the called by God for God's purpose, the one's appointed by the Giver of Gifts to the church and to humankind are the sons and daughters of Him whom sent us. God is sending us out amongst wolves - Luke 10:3 "Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves."

Acts 20: 29-31 "I know quite well that when I have gone, fierce wolves will invade you and have no mercy on the flock. Even from your own ranks their will be men & women coming forward with a travesty of the truth on their lips to induce the disciples to follow them. So be on your guard!!!

Be blessed today and remember to seek the Holy Spirit to test 'the spirit' that comes in the name of the Lord. May God's blessings rest upon you and may God's peace dwell in your soul!
It is in Jesus' name, the Messiah...Amen...Amen...and Amen.

- Rev.

The Real Power is in God's Love

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." 1 John 4:10 (NIV)

We live in such a confusing world and it's easy to miss how beautiful we are to God and how much He really does love us. Let's learn to long for the love of God. His love for us is unconditional and free.

God's love came as the ultimate Gift because He is the ultimate Giver of every good and perfect gift. All we need to do is open up our hearts and say, "Yes" to the Lord. That simple word to our Creator will yield you to God’s love.

Evil hates the fact that you and I are loved by God. All hell is probably trying to get you to believe that God does not care about you or does not love you. The Enemy wants us to believe that we mean nothing to our Father. Not so!! The truth is, God created us and chose us to love with a Love that will last forever. If we accept the Love, the Gift of Love then we will receive that unconditional love as our own personal Gift!

Beloved, fight off your fears and claim God’s love in your lives. Reach up and open your heart to Him. Ask God to tangibly show YOU His love...for you. Let Him fill you with His endless and abounding love. You can rest with the assurance of God’s love; it's an essential element of handling whatever comes your way. Now, that's POWER!!!

Prayer for today: Dear Creator God, help me to stand firm against the evil one (Satan) who tries to make me doubt your love. Dispel any fears and doubts that creep into my spirit and fill me with your love. Help me to enjoy the love you have for me, in Jesus name, Amen.

- Rev & Dina D

When Sin (in the Church) Becomes Popular

And He (Christ) Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect human, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head-- Christ-- from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. Ephesians 4:11-16

Are you one of these gifts that Christ gave to the church? Is your ministry consistent with God’s purpose for the church? If your ministry is contrary to God's purpose for these gifts, you will be exposed!!! As church leaders, our motivations must be from the spiritual heart of God and not of the carnal mind and sinful nature of humankind. Church leaders must live righteously before God and humankind. Our lives should remain purified from habitual sin. Our lives should reflect the blessings and promises of God not that of tragedy & lack.

If you have sinned against God's church, have you repented? Are you sorry for your misdoings as they really DO displease our Creator? My definition of sin is anything that exalts itself above God and causes spiritual separation from God and His will for our lives. Do God's will and allow the Spirit to lead and guide you with a level-head and uprightness. Psalm 143:10

Repent and be sorry for displeasing God and cease to habitually sin again. Now is the season for repentance as God is calling the church to repent or be exposed openly. As church leaders, God is holding us responsible for the lives we live. Those who engage in below-standards of living should cease making this a popular way of life. Yield your will to God's perfect will and fully live for Christ. Stop deceiving the children of God with your fancy words and false display of holiness. Stop acting humble then resume a low-life position behind the scenes when you THINK no one is watching. Do the right thing even when no one is watching. Really live up to God's standards for wholesome and healthy Christian living. Practice what you preach and not just preach what YOU yourself have no intentions of practicing.

But all things having their true character exposed by the light are made manifest; for that which makes everything manifest is light. Ephesians 5:13

If light is taught in the church, how can a church leader live in darkness. How can a church leader teach light if that leader has chosen to live in darkness??? Some church leaders do not live up to the standards of God. Some church leaders engage in "loose living" only because grace is being used as a parameter to live like 'dogs in heat.'

Just because God gives us grace to live our lives does not mean we take that grace for granted. Paul tell us in Romans 6:14-15

The sad truth about the wayward church leaders is, the communities which these leaders represent, have accepted this way of living as popular. It's popular to live an unrighteous life! Sin has become a sad and trendy popularity contest...the latest but not the greatest fashion. How many bed-partners do you need? How many ways can you steal from the church? How often do you change your character to fit the custom? Since when does perfection becomes abnormal? Are your ethics too low? Do you really love the church or just what the church can give you? How can you lead when you do not follow God's instructions for the church?

News flash…habitual sin is NOT acceptable and pleasing to God.

As spiritual leaders, we must continue to strive to be like Christ and continue to stand for righteousness; even if we stand alone. I'm going to make it personal... " even if I stand alone, I will stand firm."

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place…Ephesians 6:13-14

No, I am not judging anyone but making a clear observation of what I have seen in God's house for many years and frankly, it is time for that foolishness to cease. Sure we all make mistakes but should we continue to make the same mistake over and over again? We all have our own crosses to bear and must carry them until the end of our days. Yes - we all stumble and fall but we do not have to stay fallen. Yes - we all make mistakes but we should learn from them and not repeat them. Christ was the only perfect person that walked the face of the earth…..and we are not Him but we should strive to be like Him.

Do I love everyone – YES! Do I like everyone – NO! I do not like the unrighteous. I do not like liars. I do not like thieves. I do not like deceivers. I do not like those who do wrong and know they are doing wrong but somehow justify it with a convincing excuse. I do not like messy folks. I do not like folks who cause confusion. I do not like jealous people. I do not like anything that causes destruction and strife.

Yes, Christ died for all sin for by Christ, our sins were covered by the blood, the ultimate sacrificial lamb who loves us all. We are all sinners saved by GRACE but that does not give us the right to practice sin. Romans 6:14-15

Church leaders must rise to the righteous occasion and cease to live for unrighteousness. Stop lying to the sheep. No more self-titles to impress the church folk. Stop hiding behind the royal looking robes and step up to the Royal Faith in Christ. Stop spiritually cheating the sheep of their freedom to do real work for Christ. God's people are not human puppets but are people with real souls and minds, and with real issues. If you're going to preach, declare the Gospel Message. Stop preaching other people’s tragedies in the pulpit. (That’s not cool) No more robbing the church of its resources for ministry to live extravagant lives. No more shedding of innocent blood for your own self-righteousness and edification. After all, the mature Christians really see who you are and really see the real YOU.

Why do you continue to make a mockery out of God's church??? The House of the Lord is a sacred Temple of worship and not a place to hang out with your buddies when you do not have anything else to do. The church if NOT a venue for the latest ‘trash’ disco show! It's NOT a place to go and be entertained when you're bored. It's a gathering place for Believers. Church is a sacred ground to pray and commune corporately with God, touching and agreeing with followers of Christ on righteous things, and not a place to pick up a "hot date" or find a person to impress. God's Church is NOT a place for public folly of worldly engagements. Stop "playing church" and really be God’s Church. Your title or office in the church should not make you look down on others but calls for teaching and serving one another in love. Worship God but serve one another. Honor God and love each other. Love God with all of who you are. Be the leader, the Christian Leader that God has called you to live.

The gifts that Christ gave to the church is a serious charge and should not be taken lightly. If God has called you to lead at a higher capacity, then lead with high ethics, high morals and high standards. Not to be so far removed or so far ahead that you create a bubble over yourselves and get too far ahead of the people but being the leader you’d want to follow. Would you follow yourself by the ways you live???

As apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastors and teachers, we are held accountable by God (the only Judge) for the souls we lead to Christ and the one's we cause to stumble and fall...and remain fallen (lost; ungodly living). The bloodshed will be on the hands of those spiritual leaders that aid in the cause of unfortunate yet preventable confusion.

When wrong is made ‘right’ in the church – we have a SERIOUS problem! When habitually practicing wrong becomes your platform of praise, LOOK OUT because God is watching! Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that others may take warning. 1 Timothy 5:20

God speaks of false prophets in the last days. If there is a continuation of these “false agents" and if the shoe fits -- YOU WILL BE EXPOSED!!! The New Covenant tells us to be beware of false prophets who come disguised [look and act like] harmless sheep but are really vicious [deadly] wolves. We can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act [publicly/privately]. We do not pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles do we??? A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions [things they do]. Matthew 7:15-20

God is not going to tolerate [forever] the lack of productivity!!! Ephesians 5:10-11 tells us to carefully determine what pleases the Lord and have nothing to do with fruitless acts of evil but expose them. Verse 13 goes on to state that the evil intentions will be exposed when light is shed on the evil because the light shows everything!

Does your your silence approve of wrongdoings! Do you approve of sin? Is sin popular in your community? In your church? In your workplace? Will you become a "whistle blower", breaking your silence???

Those of us being light ourselves (Ephesians 5:8), by bringing light through reprove of those who are in darkness, will convert them to light. Our consistent lives and faithful reproofs will be our "armor of light" (Romans 13:12) in making an inroad [invasion] on the kingdom of darkness (evil; the Enemy).

When sin becomes popular, who will stand against the evilness that sin promotes??? Perhaps YOU have been chosen for the task….??? Repent or perish...the kingdom of God is near!

-Rev

How's Your Vision

When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful. Proverbs 29:18

Robert Fritz wrote, “It is not what a vision is; it’s what a vision does.” What does a vision do?

Vision is the ability to see. Helen Keller was asked, “Is there anything worse than being blind?” “Yes,” she replied, “having eyesight but no vision!” Leaders imagine a preferred future. Vision is a major key of the future. Vision is the vivid image of the compelling future God wants to create through us.

Leaders can stand up and say this is where we are going….

Mike Vance tells of being at Walt Disney World soon after its completion when someone said, “It’s too bad Walt Disney didn’t live to see this.” Vance replied, “He DID see it—that’s why it’s here.”

What kind of vision do you have?

Myopic vision: Leaders with myopic vision are so terribly nearsighted that they live only for today. Their vision of the future is fuzzy. They can barely see beyond their noses.

Peripheral vision: Leaders with peripheral vision are blindsided by side issues. These visionaries are hampered in moving forward because they catch the threatening images of people lurking on the sidelines who will defeat their efforts. These folks are easily distracted.

Tunnel vision: Leaders with tunnel vision see only what’s dead ahead of them and assume that their slender view of reality reflects the whole world. They don’t see other persons or other issues.

Panoramic vision: Leaders with panoramic vision see the big picture. They see beyond today. They see what is ahead of them. They see what is to their sides. They have a basic understanding of the key ingredients of a healthy organization and know the steps that it will take to get them there.

How’s your vision? Without it your organization will be like an unbridled horse. With it the organization will be focused, moving toward the fulfillment of the dream lurking problems in the corners of their eyes. They are fearful of shadowy difficulties and people lurking on the sidelines who will defeat their efforts. These folks are easily distracted.

Vision is perhaps the greatest need of leadership today. As someone said regarding the church but it pertains to any organization, “Our preachers aren’t dreaming. That’s why the church and is such a nightmare.”

Are Your Prayers Effective or Affective?

What is prayer? A devout petition to God or an object of worship? A spiritual communion with God or an object of worship, as in supplication, thanksgiving, adoration, or confession? The act or practice of praying to God? All the above. To find out if your prayers are effective or affective, join Church of the Solid Rock tomorrow night at 7pm and find out!!! Details of worship location are below. Hope to see you there!!!

POWER HOUR WORSHIP

Church of the Solid Rock
7PM – 8PM
2735 Villa Creek Dr. #290
Dallas TX 75234

Only 15 minutes from downtown Dallas
Two Metro Square-Building C - Suite 290
Enter via the west side of Atrium
Sanctuary is on the 2nd floor

www.crock4christ.org

You Shall Not Be Moved

"A snake will keep twitching even after you kill it. Does not matter how terrible the snake looks twitching....it's still dead."

Do not be moved or afraid of a dead snake. After all, it's dead. I know it may look weird twitching after it has been killed but....it's still dead. You shall not be moved! I'm sure the snake may startle you upon your approach but...it's still dead. You shall not be moved! Yes the scary motives and loud rattle or noise may try to get you off track and cause you to walk on the other side of the road for a little while but...it's still dead. You shall not be moved! Sure the implications of danger and fake gestures may look real but....it's all fake. You shall not be moved! Many replicas of authenticity will be displayed but....it's all fake. You shall not be moved! Here are some passages of scripture to encourage you to stand still in faith...

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper. Psalm 1:3

Let no temptation take hold on you, but such as is human. And God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that which you are able: but will make also with temptation issue, that you may be able to bear it.

1 Corinthians 10:13

For she shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be anxious in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. Jeremiah 17:8

Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid of them! The LORD your God will go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you.

In this passage, Moses was speaking to the children of Israel. He encouraged them to follow Joshua's leadership as he would not complete the journey with them to the Promised Land. Moses always knew that God would be with them even though they faced many obstacles and danger. Once again, God's revelation gave the Israelites another glimpse of hope and promise and they were able to keep moving forward.

If we, as children of God, would keep our minds focused on heavenly promises instead of earthly problems, we'd all have less worries, sleepless nights and restless days. God IS the source for everything we need. If God promised it, He will deliver therefore, when you see a dead snake twitching, don't be afraid -- YOU shall not be moved!!!

- Rev

Would You Like an Invitation to Dine?

Psalm 15:1-5
1) Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
God, who gets invited to dinner at your place? How do we get on your guest list?
2) He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
Walk straight, act right, and tell the truth.
3) He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
4) In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
Don't hurt your friend, don't blame your neighbor; despise the despicable.
5) He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.
Keep your word even when it costs you, make an honest living, and never take a bribe. You'll never get barred if you live like this.

- Inspired by Dina Dean

Church of the Solid Rock - Join Us For Worship

Please join us Wednesday night at 7 pm for Power Hour Worship. www.crock4christ.org.

God is doing a new thing in ministry and we hope that you are able to join us for some uplifting worship and wonderful bible teaching based on the Inspired Word of God, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We are excited about this progressive journey in the life of our church and hope that you will help us share in the promises of God. If you have a specific ministry need contact Rev. Deckard at revdeckard@ymail.com. May God bless and keep you!!

Sharing the Promise,
- Rev

Change Has Come to our World

Change has come not only to America but to the world. We should celebrate as the world celebrates the victory!!! Now we can truly say, the sky is the limit!!!

As many of us witnessed history, how many of us were thinking good thoughts? Did we give thanks to God for the change? Although we may not all agree with the choice of President nor his view and ideals but we have to admit that change was absolutely necessary for the continued growth of this great nation, the super power called America!!! Let me share with you my belief: The only Super Power is the One who is Superior to all of humanity and that is our Creator. He is the One Constant that does not change but allows us to grow as free-agents.

I am the Lord, and I do not change. That is why you descendants of Jacob are not already destroyed. Malachi 3:6 (NLT)

Our obedience to please God should drive us to follow the guidelines and teaching of Jesus in order to unlock our assigned blessings. As we recognize our new President, let us not forget who’s in charge of this universe. Our Creator is our "Commander in Chief." President Barack Obama can only do what God allows. After all, nothing happens out of the will of God.

We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. Proverbs 16:9

Since change has come to our world, how many of us are willing to embrace the change? During these perilous and trying times, we must begin to seek change by beginning with self. The change begins from within. If we begin to renew our minds, will shall become new creatures in Christ. Develop good Christian habits and embrace high morals and ethics. Begin to explore the true meaning of love then the other fruit of God's Spirit will begin to reign in our lives. Let us begin to turn our hearts from cold to warm and our minds from the trained thoughts and guided biases that we've grown up with, to God thoughts and healthy deeds. If you say you love God then why not embrace your neighbor. We may not always like our neighbors but as Christians, we are required to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Are we humane enough to refuse to accept hatred because of OUR beliefs and taught bigotry of any kind? Will our ill-trained thoughts and misguided biases get the best of us? Will we hope for a successful term for our President or his demise? After all, if he fails, we all fail.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands: one Nation under God, indivisible, With Liberty and Justice for all.

"We should really begin to embrace this pledge...to really be that one nation under God! We should undergird President Barack Obama and support him as an American President not as an African-American or interracial President but.....an American. Sure it was a great day in history for many People of Color but it was also God's answer to many of our American prayers. The economy IS in a HOT mess but when we pray collectively for the same change, and then change comes. Maybe now our prayers could go a little something like this now....God, thank you for the change. Now God, we need to help our President get us out of the mess by doing OUR part. Help "ME" to do MY part Oh Lord, and if it be Your will God, bless me to bless another. Help us to redefine our lives, according to Your holy word, in Jesus' name, Amen, Amen and Amen!!!

We cannot point fingers at any one person. If we are not a part of the solution then one can only assume that we are a part of the problem. It may sound simple but it's evident that if each person would contribute their "fair" share, then we all can have a "fair" piece of the American Dream! There's only one condition though....God has to be at the forefront our lives.
Trusting God is the only assurance we'll ever need. If God declares it, you'd better believe it!!! God determines the outcome of our plans. If we would just learn to trust and hold on to God's unchanging hand and begin again with hope in God [first] then our "dreams" will come to pass according to God's will for our lives.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 (NLT)

We can begin change by changing how we view one another. We are all unique and wonderfully made in God's image; not only as Americans but as Citizen of the Promise. Worship & praise our Creator and serve one another in love. "After all, it is love, grace and mercy from God that keeps us, and nothing that we've done so well." dgd

Sharing the Promise....
- Rev

Move On....

Move on....."Why are you crying out to Me? Tell the Israelites to move on."
- Exodus 14:15

Moses had brought the whole nation of Israel, approximately 600,000, to a dead end in the desert. The only thing between Israel and Pharaoh's pursuing army was the Red Sea. This was after ten plagues God had inflicted on Pharaoh to motivate him to free the Israelites. Finally, Pharaoh had freed Moses and the people, and they left Egypt. They thought they were home free. "Freedom at last," they said. But God did a strange thing. He directed Moses to take a route that led to the Red Sea, instead of the northern route around the Red Sea. God explained that He didn't want them fighting the enemies they would have encountered on this route. But still, there was the issue of the Red Sea.

They finally arrived at the Red Sea, and the people were wondering where they would go from there. News hit the camp: Pharaoh had changed his mind. He was coming after them with his army. Panic set in. The defenseless Israelites cried out, "Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!" (Ex. 14:11b-12)

God sometimes brings each of us to a "Red Sea" in our life. It may be a work problem that can't be solved. It may be a marriage that seems to be failing. It may be a debilitating disease. Whatever your Red Sea, God tells us one thing: "Keep moving." The Red Sea was before them, yet God was angered at Moses and told him to "Keep moving."

"But Lord, the Red Sea is before me." "Keep moving." When we live by sight, we act on what we see. God sets this stage in dramatic fashion. God is into the dramatic. There is no way out without God here. That is just the way He wants it. No one will get glory except God.

A friend once admonished me when I was in the midst of an extremely difficult time in my life, "You must not withdraw from being proactive in your faith just because of this trial that you are in. God's hand is on your life. There are too many who are depending on you to fulfill the purposes God has in your life. Keep moving! Keep investing yourself in others." I didn't feel like it. I was in too much pain. But I did it anyway. God met me at the point of my greatest need once I decided simply to be obedient. Getting past myself by investing myself in others helped heal the pain. There is great healing when we look past our own problems and seek to invest ourselves in others for the sake of Christ. This is when our own Red Seas become parted. We begin to walk to freedom. But we will never experience the miracle of the Red Sea in our lives if we don't first "Keep moving."
- Dina Dean

Please Join Church of the Solid Rock For Worship

Greetings Saints of God and Happy New Year! I pray the blessings of God be upon you and your households and that you are doing well. Church of the Solid Rock is a new church based in Dallas Texas. We are preaching, teaching and sharing the Gospel Message through bible study, prayer, pastoral care, evangelism and corporate worship.

Please join us Wednesday night, January 28, 2009 to help us kick-off our first Power Hour Worship Service. Worship will be held each Wednesday night at 2735 Villa Creek Dr. #290, Dallas, TX 75234-7454 (near 635 & Josey Lane). Our worship begins at 7pm central time.
Light refreshments will be served at 6:30 pm then we’ll move promptly into our worship hour.

God is doing a new thing in ministry and we hope that you are able to join us each Wednesday night for some uplifting worship and wonderful bible teaching based on the Inspired Word of God, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We are excited about this progressive journey in the life of our church and hope that you will help us share in the promises of God. If you have a specific ministry need or have any questions, please contact our church at www.crock4christ.org. If you would like to make a donation in support of our ministry, we would greatly appreciate your commitment in seeing this ministry grow to what God has designed.

Please mail your donations payable to:
Church of the Solid Rock
P. O. Box 765038
Dallas TX 75376-5038

Take care of yourselves and your blessings.

Sharing the Promise,
Rev. Doris G Deckard - Pastor
Church of the Solid Rock, Dallas TX

When Christmas Comes

When Christmas Comes
by Joshua F. Deckard

Christmas is the best time of year
It is the day when we all cheer
There is nothing but happiness and fun
Just playing with your presents all day in the sun
Some people don't get presents because they are poor
But God will give them presents and even more
Have a good Christmas, and make it fun
Because Jesus' work has been done

Published in the Excellence 2006 Poetry Collection by The American Library of Poetry.