Saturday, May 31, 2008

Thank You, Mom

The following thoughts on motherhood appeared on today's TURNING POINT online devotional from David Jeremiah.

I, too, praise God for a godly mother who led me to Christ when I was only 6 years old. She has continued to faithfully serve the Lord all these years and I'll be eternally grateful for her life and godly example. - David, the Pilgrim

"Her children rise up and call her blessed." - Proverbs 31:28

George Washington said, "My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual, and physical education I received from her."

Andrew Jackson said of his mother: "There never was a woman like her. She was gentle as a dove and brave as a lioness. The memory of my mother and her teachings were, after all, the only capital I had to start life with; and on that capital I have made my way."

Woodrow Wilson, in a letter to a minister friend, wrote of his mother, "She was one of the most remarkable persons I have ever known . . . . I seem to feel still the touch of her hand, and the sweet steadying influence of her wonderful character. I thank God to have had such a mother."

It's said, "The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." Not every child will grow up to become President of the United States; but every child is blessed who can say, "I thank God to have had such a mother."

"I remember my mother's prayers, and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life." - Abraham Lincoln

Friday, May 30, 2008

Not Guilty

This powerful poem is included in this month's Decision Magazine from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association:

NOT GUILTY

When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of the guilt within

Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end of all my sin
Because the sinless Savior died

My sinful soul is counted free

For God the Just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me.

~ Charitie Lee Bancroft, taken from "Before the Throne of God Above" - 1863

I'm a Loser...No, I'm Just Not a Winner

This morning Tim Challies announced the winners of his May Giveaway. I wasn't one of them. So sad!

Tim writes:

May Giveaway Winners

This morning I sent out an email announcing the winners of the May giveaway. The following three people have won the Monergism Books gift certificates (and will need to send me an email to claim them!):

Rick Aldrich
Mike Driskill
Christa Allan

Closing in on 1600

1597 posts and counting. We should hit 1600 this weekend. Thanks for your encouraging words and comments. We blog in order to bring glory to God and encouragement to His people.

Thursday, May 29, 2008

When the Light Breaks Through

This incredible picture appears on Lisa J's blog, Thoughts from the Teahouse, and I had to bring it over here to Pilgrim Scribblings. What a photo!

How can anyone question the existence of a Creator who spoke these things into being?

The beauty that surrounds us should be a constant reminder that an Intelligent Designer created the world in which we live and the galaxies which declare His glory!

When the realization that there is a God and that He provided for our redemption through His Son Jesus Christ finally breaks through...

...our lives are never the same again. Hallelujah!

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Everyone Loves Getting Something FREE

May Giveaway

Each month my friend and blogger extraordinaire, Tim Challies, offers an incredible giveaway. This month is no exception! Check it out here and enter today. Click on the logo above. Please use my referral code as well. Thanks!

Be sure to check out Tim's blog. He posts every day and hasn't missed a day for years. It's always worth the visit.

God's Mistakes

This morning as I penned my sentiments on a card and offered encouragement to a friend who is battling cancer I quoted a verse written by the psalmist David.

In the midst of our trials and the circumstances that appear to overwhelm us, we need to be reminded of the truth that, "as for God His way is perfect." - Psalm 18:30 (NIV)

"Father, remind us of the indisputable fact that You have NEVER made a mistake. You are the sovereign King of the universe and You only cause or allow things to enter our lives that will bring glory to Your name and, ultimately, good to Your redeemed people. Thank You for the truths of Your Word. May we never forget that You have never made a mistake and...You never will. AMEN!"

Monday, May 26, 2008

Cramming For Finals

The following devotional thought by David Jeremiah appeared on the TURNING POINT Online Devotional site today:

Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. - Luke 12:40

Every time a particular young boy went to his playmate's house, he noticed his friend's grandmother studying her Bible. Finally one day he asked, "Why is your grandmother always reading that Bible?" His friend answered, "I don't know, but I think she is cramming for her finals."

In reality, that grandmother was doing exactly what we, as Christians, should all do: preparing for whatever task God had for her by studying His Word.

More often than not, it is the journey rather than the destination that matters most in life; for it is the lessons learned, the trials endured, and the truths discovered that mold our character and prepare us for that destination. If we desire more than a mediocre life, we must prepare in more than a mediocre way. "Winging it" doesn't bring about the best results, so we would do well to use the time God has given us along the way to prepare for what's ahead.

"If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend the first hour sharpening the axe." - Abraham Lincoln

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Excellent Blogs

I feel honored to be included on the Blogroll that Nathan White posted on his excellent Shepherd the Flock site. Check out these excellent blogs!


The Full Blogroll

The blogs below constitute a small portion of a blogsphere that has many wonderful and edifying Christian bloggers. No doubt that it is impossible to list every single blog that is sound, biblical, and worth the time to read. Thus, the list below is a condensed version of blogs that I have personally become aquainted with and have enjoyed. More ministries, resources, and Christian websites can be found under the main ‘Resources’ page.

  • Because of Grace, Jamie Dunbar: ‘Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created. -Rev. 4:11′
  • Biblical Christianity, Dan Phillips: ‘Calvidispiebaptogelical. One God, sixty-six books, five points, seven dispensations (+/-), five sola’s, one wife, four children, four cats, no fooling.’
  • Call to Die, Andrew Lindsey: A personal friend; student at Southern Seminary. Luke 9:23-24
  • Camp on This, Steve Camp: ‘Proclaiming the treasures of the gospel’.
  • Centuri0n, Frank Turk: ‘..And His ministers a flame of fire’.
  • Challies.com, Tim Challies: One of the best and most popular Christian blogs. Tim wrote the book on Christian blogging.
  • Clay-Pot, Tim Brown: A good friend; “A ReformING Baptist Christian’s meager blog of various things pertaining to the faith and the world around me.”
  • CoffeeSwirls, Doug McHone: Walking the Path of Least Resistance
  • Doxoblogy, Jeremy Weaver: ‘Biblical theology to equip the reader to worship God in spirit and in truth.’
  • Everyday Mommy.net, by Jules: “It is my heart and my passion to encourage moms to see the “mission field” who sleep in the bunkbeds in the room down the hall.”
  • FIDE-O, Jason Robertson, Scott Hill, Gene Cook: Excellent resource for information concening covenant theology vs. dispensationalism, cessationism, general theological issues, etc.
  • Free St. George’s: Turning the light of Celtic Reformed Church History on the Problems of the Modern Church.
  • Founders Ministry Blog, Tom Ascol: ‘Commentary and observations from Tom Ascol, Executive Director of Founders Ministries.’
  • Girl Talk, CJ Mahaney’s wife, Carol and others: Excellent blog for women.
  • Illumination, Sam Waldron and Richard Barcellos: The official blog of The Midwest Center for Theological Studies. Reformed Baptist, 1689 LBC orientated.
  • Incrediblog!, Gordan Runyan. Never boring, always worth the read; variety of topics.
  • Locusts and Wild Honey, Don Elbourne: A personal friend; pastor of the Katrina-devasted church, Lakeshore Baptist Church in Lakeshore, MS.
  • Old Truth.com, Jim Bublitz: Today’s church in light of church history. Many great resources!
  • Old Paths, D.R. Booker: Wisdom from along old paths.
  • Our Flammily, Tiffany Flamm: My beloved sister and her ever- growing family.
  • Pilgrim Scribblings, David W. Fisher: “Personal reflections by a fellow pilgrim on the journey home.”
  • PressOn, Rodney Albert: …refuse to quit…keep your eyes on the prize!
  • Provocations and Pantings, Timmy Brister: A good friend; student at Southern Seminary; great site for resources and current events, particularly in the Southern Baptist Convention.
  • Pulpit Magazine: The Online Magazine of the Shepherds’ Fellowship, a ministry associated with John MacArthur.
  • Rebecca Writes: ‘….from way up north about the things that interest her most: her family, her life in the Yukon, and matters of faith and theology.’
  • Reformation Theology: Multi-author blog from the best site for Reformed theology resources, Monergism.com.
  • Reformed Baptist Fellowship: Richard Barcellos, Mark Chanski, Bob Gonzales, James Renihan, Jim Savastio, Geoffrey Thomas, Sam Waldron, and James White make up this team-blog which is devoted to a global network of churches adhering to the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689.
  • Strange BaptistFire: Team blog dedicated to defending the doctrines of grace (Calvinism). I am a contributor on this blog.
  • Sweet Tea & Theology, John Mark: The question is not, “Am I good enough to be a Christian?” rather, the question is, “Am I good enough not to be?”
  • Team Pyro: Phil Johnson, John MacArthur’s editor, heads up the very best team-blog on the web.
  • The Contemporary Calvinist, Lee Shelton & Darrell Dow: “Calvinism did not spring from Calvin. We believe that it sprang from the great Founder of all truth.” -Charles H. Spurgeon
  • The Narrow Mind Aftermath, Gene Cook: Blog articles which follow-up each show of the excellent Reformed Podcast, The Narrow Mind.
  • The Riddleblog, Kim Riddlebarger: Devoted to Reformed Theology and Eschatology; Excellent site for eschatology.
  • The Sign of Jonah: Drew and Keith tag-team on this thought-provoking site. Definitely check them out.
  • The Vossed World, Chad Richard Bresson: ‘Between two spheres, gazing at Christ -our heavenly destiny’. Material from the great Reformed theologican, Geerhardus Vos and others.
  • Tribablogue: Christian apologetics; particularly good for their material and debates on atheism.
  • Whole Counsel Theology, David B. Hewitt: Standing on the ENTIRE Word of God: * Sola Fide * * Sola Gratia * * Sola Scriptura * * Solus Christus * * Soli Deo Gloria *

Mailbox Miracles

Unfortunately the mail box at my office often seems to be the centerpiece of my life. Our livelihood depends on what the mailman deposits there. Epistle Sports Ministries trusts God to meet our needs through the kind and generous gifts of His people.

Recently I was speaking to one of my colleagues who shares our office complex. I had stressed the dire necessity that something substantial by way of support for our ministry be in the mail box that morning. Then I added, “if there’s nothing there, the Lord can still send someone into my office with a donation.”

Several minutes later I went to check the mail and returned dejected. Nothing! Not even junk mail! Now what would I do?

Within a matter of minutes a dear friend knocked on my door, came in and began to tell me about an unexpected cheque he had just received. The mailman had been good to him at least. He said, “I’m just going to sign it and give it to you.”

Being an emotional guy who wears his feelings close to the surface, tears came quickly. I felt that my friend needed to know about the conversation I had only moments before.

He was encouraged, my financial need that was pressing that morning was met and all parties involved were blessed. God was glorified in the transaction and that’s what matters most.

Does God still work in miraculous ways? There’s no doubt in my mind. Trust Him to do what you could never do on your own. He’s waiting to show Himself strong on your behalf.

"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward Him." ~ 2 Chronicles 16:9(a) (ESV)

Where Does Your Faith Rest?

"My faith does not rest on God's promises. My faith rests upon God's character. Faith must rest in confidence upon the One who made the promises." - A. W. Tozer

"He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform." - Romans 4:20-21 (KJV)

Saturday, May 24, 2008

680 News In Pictures



































Ironically my favourite radio station for news is 680 News out of Toronto. Today's post is another type of 680 news - news about our home here at 680 Ford Crescent in rural
Cavan, Ontario.

This morning we went to see our "new to us" home just east of Peterborough. This afternoon the buyers of our home here at 680 came by for a last "look through" before they take possession on June 16th.

After they left I began to reminisce and think about how much we're going to miss our home. I took my trusted SONY and went for a walk over our 3 1/2 acres. Here are some of the photos of our home for the past 14 years.

LEGEND: (left to right from the top)

1. One of our many trails
2. You can't even see the neighbour's home who lives across the road from us
3. Our flowering crabapple tree
4. Looking east on Ford Crescent
5. View from the front porch
6. Some of the wild brush in the back field
7. View of 680 from the road
8. Some of Carol's trilliums
9. Our creek
10. Blossoms from one of our dozens of apple trees
11. Yes, there'll be some bleeding hearts when we move
12. Looking back from our side lawn
13. Our mailbox at 680

Note: Click on a picture for a larger and better view. You might even want to use one of these as your desktop background (or as a reminder to pray for us).

Early Refreshing

"How different, when the soul is refreshed and made happy early in the morning, from what it is when, without spiritual preparation, the service, the trials and the temptations of the day come upon one." - George Muller

Be sure to check out our George Muller web site here.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Tragic News

Steven Curtis Chapman's youngest child (pictured) died Wednesday evening after being struck by a car driven by her teenage brother in the driveway of the family's Williamson County home.

Maria, one of the Christian singer's six children, was taken by LifeFlight to Vanderbilt Hospital, which confirmed the death, according to Laura McPherson, a spokeswoman for the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

The 5-year-old was hit by an SUV driven by her teenage brother, she said. Police did not give the driver's name.

The teen was driving a Toyota Land Cruiser down the driveway of the rural home about 5:30 p.m. and several children were playing in the area, McPherson said. He did not see Maria in the driveway before the vehicle struck her, she said.

"It appears to be a terrible accident,'' McPherson said.

No charges are expected, she said. The accident was witnessed by two other children; the entire family was home at the time, McPherson said.

Singer/songwriter Chapman, who recently was inducted into Music City Walk of Fame, is one of contemporary Christian music's most recognizable and most awarded names.

He and his wife, Mary Beth, have long been supporters of international adoption, having brought three girls from China into their family. Maria was the youngest.

The couple is so active in the cause that they formed an organization, Shaohannah's Hope, to aid families wanting to adopt.

With his latest music tour, which came through Nashville in November, Chapman started a campaign called "Change for Orphans." He asked audience members at each stop to bring spare change to the concert, where it was counted and given to a local family to aid in their adoption process.

"I don't know of anybody who loves his children more than he does and is so committed to the adoption concept, and to lose one, no matter what the circumstances, is heartbreaking beyond all comprehension," said John Styll, president of the Nashville-based Gospel Music Association.

"He talks about his kids all the time. That's his life. His kids are more important to him than music, that's for sure."

The tragedy was announced during Wednesday-night services at Harpeth Hills Church of Christ, which the family attends. Maria had just graduated from the church preschool.

And word spread throughout the tight-knit Christian music community on Wednesday evening.

Styll got the news not long after Maria's death.

"I'm confident I can speak for everyone in the community to say we will do everything we can to support this family, as we would do at any time, but especially at a time like this," he said.

Most of the Chapman family was at Vanderbilt children's hospital after the accident and could not be contacted. The long, gravel driveway leading to the home west of Franklin was blocked off by Williamson County sheriff's deputies.

In addition, Chapman will not appear at his May 24 show. An artist appearing in his absence will be announced shortly.

Keep My Leaf Green

Isobel Kuhn was used mightily by God to reach the Lisu tribe in inland China. Her book By Searching had a powerful impact on my life as a teenager and I strongly recommend it to anyone who desires to obey God's leading.

During the Communist Revolution in China every missionary was in deadly peril. Isobel Kuhn was able to "slip over China's back fence" in 1950 to relative safety in Thailand. From there she anxiously awaited word that other missionaries had made a safe exit from the troubled China mainland. One morning in a prayer meeting one of Isobel's coworkers prayed "O Lord, keep their leaf green in times of drought."

Kuhn's mind flew to Jeremiah 17:8 and felt that God was reassuring her that her colleagues would be safe. One by one each of her coworkers reached safety. She would later recount the thrilling story in her book Green Leaf in Drought Time.

Jeremiah wrote, "For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when the heat comes, but its leaf will be green." - Jeremiah 17:8

How are you handling the present drought you're facing? Have the trying circumstances which are threatening to choke your spiritual vitality gained a foothold? Is your green leaf beginning to dry up and turn a lifeless brown?

Soak up God's promises. Abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Rest by His river of life. He will deliver you and bring you into a fertile, fragrant place once again. TRUST HIM!

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

ABIDE

My friend Vicki posted the following thoughts on her blog recently. Check out her site here.

Vicki writes:

It's been said that only God is able to cross off everything on His "to-do" list. Guess the rest of us might as well hang it up:-)

Sometimes He shows me how ridiculous my list has grown, only to tear it up and whisper a reminder: Abide. That's all He asks. 'Tis this abiding I need to even know His will; the rest will follow. Playing beat-the-clock in my own flesh is stressful, but learning to move according to His enablement brings peace.

Bonus: It's way more productive to do His will rather than mine. Perfectionism never wins brownie points with God anyway.

Unshifting Truth

As a child I learned a scripture verse which impacted me then and has always been an encouragement to me over the 50 plus years which followed.

The King James Version renders Psalm 119: 160 like this: "Thy Word is true from the beginning: and every one of Thy righteous judgments endureth forever."

God's truth doesn't change. Neither does He. He is immutable and His truth will never shift. AMEN!

Bunkin' in the Barracks

Matthew and I arrived home safely this afternoon from his class trip to historic Old Fort Henry in Kingston, Ontario.

The grade 7 class from Rhema Christian School went through simulated training as British troops and then were enlisted in the British Army. We marched a lot over the last two days so Matthew and I are nursing our wounds. We both struggle with foot problems.


Last night we slept in the actual barracks where soldiers bunked during the 19th century. All the guys were in one room and the girls were in another. The beds were uncomfortable and the mattresses were bumpy but we had a lot of fun. Matthew (pictured in the center) was a good soldier (better than his dad). We had to leave the barracks, traverse the parade square, cross the moat leave the protected area of the fort to get to the washroom. It was 3:30 a.m. when I made the journey this morning in my night wear and slippers. Lots of fun! NOT!

We had a great time but it will be nice to sleep in my own bed. Unfortunately I can't do that until Friday evening. I have to work tonight and tomorrow night.

Monday, May 19, 2008

Wait, Don't Worry

I saw this graphic on the prayer update e-mail from Kindred Community Church in southern California where my friend Susan Bunts attends.

Kindred Community Church was pastored by Chuck Obremski, the former Baseball Chapel leader for the Anaheim Angels, until his untimely death several years ago.

Remember, God may say "WAIT" but He never says "WORRY".

The Captain, Ches Fisher

My mother recently wrote the following account concerning my father's love for boats. She wrote it out longhand, my son Tim typed it and I've added it here on Pilgrim Scribblings for your enjoyment.

Mom writes:

Ches was born in Birmingham England in 1922 but came to Peterborough when he was 15 months old. He was raised beside the Trent Canal and from an early age he had a real love for boats. He built his first little boat when he was ten years old and actually took it over the lift locks. As a teenager he was an avid canoeist and took many canoe trips. He paddled past the site of Elim Lodge before the Arnolds founded it.

His parents were godly Christians, but it wasn’t until 1945 when he was a young married man that he accepted the Lord as his personal Saviour and Lord. From then on, the Lord has first place in his life, though he was always a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

Boating came to a standstill for a while as we had to sell the canoe to buy a refrigerator. A few years later he started to build a sixteen-foot “runabout” in our basement. He was frequently asked “How are you going to get it out of the basement?” But he had taken careful measurements and when the time came, out it came. When it was launched, it was the fastest boat of its kind around.

However, Ches decided later that a houseboat in which the whole family could holiday would be more practical. So, “Eagle Wings” was begun in the backyard. Ches jokingly used to say that he felt like Noah as he could only work on the boat in his spare time, of which he had very little, and the houseboat was a long time in the building. However, in 1967 it was launched in Little Lake, Peterborough, and began its life of service.

The family, especially the younger members, loved it and we took trips down the canal to Trenton and up the canal to Georgian Bay, and shorter trips around the Kawartha Lakes. It was often filled with young peoples’ groups and other friends. Its mooring place was Fife’s Bay on Chemong Lake.

We had known Bernard Aldridge for several years and one day when Ches and Bernard were talking, an idea was formed for using the boat once a week to take the guests at Elim for boat trips. The short trips would go out during Wednesday, and “Cruise for Missions” began. A box was placed in the boat into which the passengers could put donations for the mission of the week. This became so popular that we began taking the boat to Elim three days, and eventually built a dock at Elim so we could leave the boat there.

Later, we bought another so we could use two boats to accommodate the guests who enjoy the boat trips. We started going to Bobcaygeon on Tuesdays and Thursdays and to Curve Lake on Wednesdays. We now sold tickets for the boat cruises. Money from the tickets went to the mission of the week on Wednesday and to Elim Lodge on Tuesdays and Thursdays to help with the upkeep. Of course we had to have a second captain and much of the time this was our youngest son, Mark who was very adept at driving either boat. Other captains included our grandson Tim, Ellwood Webb, Gerald Charlton and Bernard Aldridge. Ches often let young passengers steer the boat for a while while wearing a captain’s cap. He was right there of course! Because everyone enjoyed his commentary so much, he always drove one boat to the destination and the other one on the return trip to Elim.

Because I had heard his commentaries so many times, I didn’t always pay attention but there was on part, which I wouldn’t miss for anything. When we passed between Kishgo and Morrsey Islands, Ches told the true story of snowmobilers who got lost in a snowstorm. They thought they were on the right track but tragically they were not, but were on the thin ice of the channel and perished. Ches always quoted the verses, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” Proverbs 16:25, and, “Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth and the life, no man cometh unto the Father but by me.” John 14:6

Before we started each cruise he named the two boats and quoted the verses which inspired their names – Isaiah 40:31 (Eagle Wings) and 2 Corinthians 6:2 (El Tiempo).

When Ches got a letter from the coast guard saying that his boats didn’t meet the standards for passenger boats, even though he never received a cent himself from their operation, he bought a larger boat which he operated for a few years. This was Admiral Sir John, named for a relative of Ches who was an Admiral in the British Navy.

Not everyone knows of the hours of work needed to keep up boats, but Ches didn’t complain, He was doing this for the Lord. He needed help driving the Admiral including men who had their Master of Minor Waters. Derek Stevenson and Lee Werner had this title and enjoyed helping Ches, and Ches loved introducing them to Elim Lodge. Others who drove the boat were Mark, Jim and Tim Fisher, Jack Nelson, John Tough, Bernard Aldridge and Ross Liddell. Of course Ches never missed a trip and I tagged along as First Mate.

Operating the boat cruisers was not Ches’s only involvement with Elim Lodge. When Bernard and Ruth Aldridge felt they could no longer operate Elim, Ches was one of the group who took over its operation. From that day until his death, he was an active member of the board. He fabricated the steel parts of all the docks. He repaired things when required and built the children’s fishing dock. He jokingly said he was going to put up a sign, “No adults allowed unless accompanied by a child”. His designing skills were put to use in various places including the new chapel. He built and installed the steeple, hung the drapes at the front of the chapel and built and installed the railings on the platform.

His wise counsel was sought by several and he was generous with words of encouragement. He particularly enjoyed greeting guests at the dining room. He had a keen sense of humour and loved a good clean joke.

- Jean Fisher

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Strength and Hope

We've all heard the stirring lyrics to the powerful hymn Great is Thy Faithfulness time and time again. Yet I'm convinced that, for any child of the King who is walking with Him, these words never become commonplace. I pray that they don't!

Driving home this morning from my night shift job at Christian Horizons I was enjoying a radio program of old hymns of the faith. I had taken one of the back roads home, taking in the beautiful scenery and reveling in the Father's love.

To be honest, I was dreading the day when we leave our present home for the last time, bid farewell to neighbors and friends and the place we've called "home" for 14 years and begin afresh in a different location. We have so many fond memories of our place here in Cavan. As I was thinking of that tearful day (in a few weeks) when we say "goodbye", Steve Green began to sing Great is Thy Faithfulness.

The words "strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow" gripped me. As believers in Jesus Christ and soldiers of the cross we have the assurance that a sovereign God will provide all the strength we need for today and bright hope for tomorrow which will anchor our souls.

We have been blessed beyond measure as the Father has lavished His love on us. Regardless of what tomorrow may bring, we have the promises of God and that is all we need.

Today, if you are dreading your "tomorrows", abide in His love, rest under His wings and know that He cares for you and will give you whatever you need.
"Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope offered to us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. - Hebrews 6:17-19a (NIV)

Friday, May 16, 2008

Sweating Christians

Here's another challenge from A. W. Tozer. When did you last sweat in a church service from what the preacher had to say?

"Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" - Acts 2:37

Tozer writes:

I preach to my congregation week after week. And I pray that I may be able to preach with such convicting power that my people will sweat! I do not want them to leave my services feeling good. The last thing I want to do is to give them some kind of religious tranquilizer-and let them go to hell in their relaxation.

The Christian church was designed to make sinners sweat. I have always believed that, and I still believe it. The messages preached in our churches should make backslidden Christians sweat. And if I achieve that objective when I preach, I thank God with all of my heart, no matter what people think of me.

taken from Jesus Is Victor!, pages 61-62.

"Lord, help me to preach with boldness, not concerned with 'what people think of me.' Amen."

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Gabe Wins It

The following news item appeared on the Sports Spectrum's THE DAILY. Each day I click on the link on the right hand column of PILGRIM SCRIBBLINGS to get Sports Spectrum's THE DAILY written by Dave Branon. Check it out!

Here's the scoop on my friend GABE GROSS:

Getting to the heart of what matters in life -- in the words of an athlete in the news.

TODAY'S FEATURE:

GABE GROSS, Tampa Bay Rays

BIO NOTE: Gabe's dad, Lee, played in the NFL for the New Orleans Saints and the Baltimore Colts.

RECENT NEWS: On any other year, being traded to the Tampa Bay Rays would be a step into baseball oblivion. But not anymore--at least for now. Now it means playing for the first place team in the American League East. Yes, the Rays are ahead of the Red Sox, the Yankees, and the whole division. And a lot of the credit goes to Gross. He singled off Mariano Rivera in the 11th inning in St. Petersburg Tuesday night to send home the winning run and push the Rays into to top spot in the East.

FAITH QUOTE: "God takes care of the sparrows, and He makes sure they have what they need. How much more important are we than those. I know that He's going to take care of me in whatever situation I'm in. As long as I put Him in first place and serve Him first, everything else will fall in place." - Sports Spectrum

Globe and Mail Obitiuary

Yesterday Canada's national newspaper, the Globe and Mail, carried a story about my Uncle Bill (pictured) who passed away just before Easter. Here's the link. I was surprised when a pastor friend of mine told me last evening that he had seen it in the paper.

I'm always thrilled when an article or a friend mentions my father, Chester W. Fisher. He was a great man who went to be with the Lord on May 21st, 1992.

Earthly Mindedness

One of my favorite, thought-provoking blogs is Nathan White's Shepherd the Flock. Nathan (pictured) never fails to stir me up and challenge my thinking. Be sure to check out his site. A quote in a recent post by Puritan author Jeremiah Burroughs caused me to think deeply. Slowing wade through Burrough's quote and ponder his prognostications.

Here's that quote:

“For example, suppose a man or woman has troubling thoughts about the things of the earth [Material goods or needs]. It may be that, by their inordinate thoughts, cares, and affections about some earthly things [anxiety], they contract much guilt [about being anxious]. Yet after this, perhaps, God gives them that earthly thing [that they were anxious over]. Now when they have it, if they have any light in their consciences, their convicted consciences will then reflect thusly: “I have this indeed, but do I have it with the blessing of God? I have it in my custody, but I got it dearly; it cost me such thoughts and cares and affections [such sinful anxiety]. Now I have it, but I cannot say it comes out of God’s love. I rather fear that God has given it to me in His wrath because I got it in such a way.” - Jeremiah Burroughs from "A Treatise on Earthly-Mindedness"

Monday, May 12, 2008

Light

This incredible photo and the accompanying text appeared on my friend Ann Voskamp's Holy Experience blog recently. I just had to share it.

Truly the light is sweet,
And a pleasant thing it is
For the eyes to behold the sun...
~ Ecc. 11:7

"Father, today I pray for eyes to behold the radiance of Him who is our only Light...."

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Losing the Library

For years I vowed I would NEVER get rid of any of my books. My library had reached 4,000 volumes and I valued my books above any other possession.

But circumstances change. We had to downsize. We've sold our home and will close the deal on our "other" place in three weeks. It is much smaller and, consequently, books had to go. Ouch! This has been a painful realization.


For the last three Saturdays we have held a garage sale at my mother's home. The proceeds are going towards the Missions Trip to Belize that eight young people from our church are planning for late August. Our granddaughter Victoria is one of them. I went through my library several times, culling volumes from it that I
conv
inced myself I could live without.

We had several tables filled with books at the garage sale and sold hundreds of them. I estimate that I took at least 1,200 volumes to the sale. We raised over $2,000.00 for the missions trip but I'm grieving the loss of much of my library. Most of my books are at my Peterborough office now and I'm determined that none of them will succumb to our downsizing.


Each time a delighted customer walked away with dozens of "my" books, paying only a pittance for them, I cried inwardly.

Life goes on though and perhaps we will own a home before I die with a huge library with floor to ceiling oak bookshelves.

Dream on David!

Happy Mothers Day

56 years ago my mother led me to a saving faith in Jesus Christ. She is still going strong, loving the Lord, praying for others and writing letters of encouragement as she has done for years.

Last Monday (May 5th) would have been dad's 86th birthday. Tomorrow (May 12th) would have been mom & dad's 64th wedding anniversary. It will be 16 years on May 21st since dad was called "home" after battling cancer.

So...May is quite a month for mom. We pause today to thank her for her life and testimony and pray that God will give her many more years of fruitful service for Him.

THANKS MOM!

"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." - Proverbs 31:28-31 (NIV)

Friday, May 09, 2008

Oprah & Eckhart...A Dangerous Alliance

In an earlier post I waxed poetic and mentioned Oprah Winfrey and Eckhart Tolle. Tolle seems to be the latest new age practitioner that Oprah has latched onto. It's scary because Oprah has such a widespread influence. When she puts forward someone's ideas that are contrary to scripture, millions could potentially be guided away from the Truth, Jesus Christ, and into the quagmire of falsehood.

Donald Whitney (pictured) is an author who I respect. He has written about the errors that Eckhart Tolle is presenting as truth in his book A New Earth.

Check this link to read Whitney's review and then make a decision on the side of Truth.

Jesus Christ IS the ONLY Way! He said it! That's the Truth!

Thursday, May 08, 2008

Old Hat

Do you recognize this baseball cap? I certainly do! For many years I was the chapel leader for the Montreal Expos. I miss those days. Apparently Paul Mackay misses the Expos too. Check out his blog.

Hopefully our Christian experience never becomes "old hat". His mercies are new every morning and the life of a believer in Jesus Christ need never be boring.

Enjoy God's presence today and be sure to remove your cap when you bow before Him.

Finding Leah

Periodically I check out the stats concerning Pilgrim Scribblings on my Sitemeter. It's always interesting to see who is checking out our blog and where they're from.

Today I discovered that Leah (pictured) had made another visit. Sitemeter led me to her blog and I enjoyed what she had posted. It's rare these days to find a young woman who loves old hymns.

Leah posted the lyrics to the great, old hymn Be Thou My Vision. I've included those lyrics here.

Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.
Be Thou my Wisdom, Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee, Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.
Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.
High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven's joys, O bright heav'ns Son!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O ruler of all.


Leah, if you read this post, e-mail me so I can write back. Have a great day and may the Lord enrich your life as you trust Him daily.
God bless!
~ David, the Pilgrim

Wednesday, May 07, 2008

Cherry's Coat of Many Colors

Canadian hockey icon, Don Cherry, has signed on with the American sports network ESPN. Cherry with his garish suits and sports jackets has been a fixture on Coach's Corner on CBC's Hockey Night in Canada for years.

We congratulate "Grapes" as does his tailor. More exposure for those crazy suits, shirts and ties although I bet he'll tone down his wardrobe when he appears south of the border.

We'll have to wait and see!

Packing A Punch

What does a young professional ballplayer pack in his carry on bag when leaving for a road trip? Maybe some of them wouldn't want us to know. Others, like Gabe Gross of the Tampa Bay Rays, pull out a book by a long-gone Church of England Bishop, J. C. Ryle, and relate how relevant his writings are.

In this 21st century when much of the Christian publishing fare is "fluff", it's encouraging to know that some of the greatest writers (and preachers) still have a readership. When Gabe showed me the book (pictured) and asked if I had heard of the author, I was thrilled to know what he was reading. The Baseball Chapel leader in Milwaukee where Gabe played before a recent trade, Wayne Beilgard, had given Ryle's book to him.

What does a professional ballplayer pack in his bag? The "cream of the crop" take along books that are life-changing and challenging, books that still pack a punch.

Now you know!

Mistaken Identity

Last night I caught the last half of the Blue Jays' game against the Tampa Bay Rays. It was a last-minute decision and I went out for dinner following the game with Gabe Gross, former Blue Jay, who is now with the Rays. Usually I try to request my credentials at least 24 hours before game time but last night circumstances prevented that.

When I picked up my VIP Pass at Gate 9 my affiliation was listed as BASEBALL CHAPEL. As many of you know, I resigned from BASEBALL CHAPEL over two years ago. Last night I was walking around the "bowels" of the Rogers Centre as DAVID FISHER of BASEBALL CHAPEL instead of DAVID FISHER with EPISTLE SPORTS MINISTRIES. Mistaken identity.

Many people move around, parading themselves as someone they're not. They put on a false front, a phony face. They say they are one thing but in reality they're something completely different.

People pretend to be Christians, followers of Jesus Christ, but they have never had a life-changing, salvation experience where God, by His Son, transforms an individual and gives new life.

What about you? Are you pretending to be someone that you're not! Let's be real! If you're a believer, live like it. If not - I'll pray that you truly become one of His.