Friday, June 28, 2013

Prayer For America

 Billy Graham's Prayer at 95 yrs old

From a man the media has never been able to throw dirt on.....amazing!
He has certainly hit the "world" on the head!
 Billy Graham's Prayer For Our Nation

THIS MAN SURE HAS A GOOD VIEW OF WHAT'S HAPPENING TO OUR COUNTRY!

'Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare. We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem. We have abused power and called it politics. We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from sin and set us free. Amen!'

I couldn't have said it better myself! May God have mercy on America!

Hosea 10:12
Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you.
(Scripture taken from the Holy Bible ~ Old Testament)
 
Posted by at No comments:

Thursday, June 27, 2013

One Nation Under God

 Billy Graham's Prayer at 95 yrs old

From a man the media has never been able to throw dirt on.....amazing!
He has certainly hit the "world" on the head!
 Billy Graham's Prayer For Our Nation

THIS MAN SURE HAS A GOOD VIEW OF WHAT'S HAPPENING TO OUR COUNTRY!

'Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare. We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem. We have abused power and called it politics. We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from sin and set us free. Amen!'

I couldn't have said it better myself! May God have mercy on America!

Hosea 10:12
Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you.
(Scripture taken from the Holy Bible ~ Old Testament)
 
Posted by at No comments:

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Freedom


Year after year millions across America celebrate the Fourth of July, a day of Independence for our nation. However, freedom for a nation doesn’t come cheap. Many brave men and women throughout history have given their lives so we can experience the freedom we have today. Sad to say the price for American’s freedom is never paid in full. Payment is still being made as our service men and women continue to fight so we can be free. Having traveled to other countries I am so thankful for the freedom we have in the United States of America. 

Two things that come to mind when I think of the word Freedom. The first thing is the Statue of Liberty.

The statue was a gift to the United States from the people of France and has become an icon of freedom for our nation. She stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor with her torch raised to the sky, a tablet evoking the law in her hand, (with the inscription of the date declaring our nations Independence, July 4, 1776) and a broken chain lying at her feet. A constant reminder of freedom, for all who see her.

 The second thing that comes to mind when I think of the word Freedom is the Cross Jesus died on.

Many brave men and women have given their lives because they love our country. Jesus gave his life because he loves the world. The freedom He offers is freedom for our soul and it didn’t come cheap either.

When reading about the Statue of Liberty a few things stood out to me.

1) She was offered as a gift ~ Paid for by someone else.

Jesus has offered us the best gift ever...the gift of eternal live.

 Romans 6:23   For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

2) She holds a torch ~ Lighting the way.

 David said in Psalm 119:105   Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.

 God has given us His Word to show us the way to eternal freedom as we walk this journey of life.

3) She holds a tablet ~ Evoking the law.

 We read about another tablet in the book of Exodus. Two tablets of stone inscribed by the very finger of God. These two tablets held the ten commandments ... God’s laws for mankind. It doesn’t take long .... We don’t have to look hard to see what has happened to our world because these ten, simple commands have been broken, do we?

4) Broken chains lie at her feet ~ Freeing the bound.

 When a person is held in bondage they are often chained around their ankles. Why? So they can't run.

 For those who have received the gift of God, we celebrate the day we receive Jesus as our second Independence Day.
        
Galatians 5:1   “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

 There is a song we sing at church:
“All the chains are broken and I have been set free.” The choirs says: “I am free to run. I am free to dance. I am free to live for You. I am free!”

Unlike American’s Freedom which is never paid in full, Christ’s death on the cross pain the full price for our sin. Nothing more is need! Oh, that is such great news!

 1 Peter 3:18 tells us “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit...”

 As I thought about this Independence day, there is a song I just can’t seem go to get out of my mind. I would love to share that song with you. It is called “The Statue of Liberty”. If you would like to hear the song just go to:

  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kCcpmGcm3g

 I pray you have experienced your second, and most important Independence Day. If you haven’t and would like to it’s so easy. Just start by talking to God. Tell him the things you have done that have broken His laws and ask Him to forgive you. Then turn from those things. Start reading the manual He gave for freedom. You will soon find yourself singing.... “I am free to run. I am free to dance. I am free to live for You. I am FREE!”



1 Peter 2:16   Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God.

426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, Pa 19465
610-323-0480

What do you think about Freedom?

Feel free to e-mail me at:
 
Check Out Some Of My Other Blogs:
Posted by at No comments:

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Jesus Christ

Ritual or Relationship?

Many in North America view Christianity as a religion. However, Christianity is not a religion at all; it is an intimate, growing relationship with none other than Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God. It is not a set of doctrines to believe, habits to practice, or sins to avoid.

To be a Christian means one is ‘Christ Like’. In the book of Acts we can read in that; “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” Why the word Christian? Because they were devoted followers of Jesus. Their relationship with Jesus had changed their lives drastically and their actions and speech reflected who they had become; like Christ.

God does not give us guidelines to be mean or cruel. Every command of God is intended to enhance His love relationship with His creation, mankind.

We have been designed to worship God and to see Him in His glory and to respond appropriately. Unfortunately, for many it has become a ‘religion’; one more meeting to attend out of habit, a social gathering filled with social activities.

God is longing for His creation to express their love for Him. Many time we feel if we use our gifts and talents in doing good deeds for others in our community we will appease God and pacify our guilty conscience.

God is a personal God, and He has given us prayer as a means of communicating with Him. Prayer is nothing more than talking with God like you would talk to a very close friend. After all, that is exactly what He longs to be; your very close friend. 

Proverbs 18:24 says, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Communication is a two way street. As you spend time talking with God take time to listen to what is on His heart a well. Yes, it is true God wants to speak to you! The greatest way He speaks in through His written Word the Holy Bible. Before you go to read, ask Him to speak to you and He will.

God instituted His commandments as a protection for those He loves, but the commandments can become a pathway to legalism rather than a avenue for a relationship with our Father in which He protects us from harm.

Religious activity apart from fellowship with God is nothing more than an empty ritual. The people of Jeremiah’s day were satisfied to have the ritual without the presence of God. They became so comfortable with their ‘religion’ that they didn’t even notice God’s absence. Their story is found in the Holy Bible in the book of  Jeremiah.


So, is it possible to pray, to attend a church service, or to give an offering yet not to experience the presence of God? It certainly is possible! And sad to say thousands of hurting people; looking for hope, peace and comfort have faced this emptiness. Many have said, “What the use. There is nothing to this ‘religion’ stuff.” 


Let me encourage you ... Don’t settle for a religious life that lacks a vital relationship with Jesus Christ. When God is present, the difference will be obvious.

God wants us to experience Him and His presence.

Jesus said in the book of Matthew, chapter 18, verse 20 “Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”  He is not a liar. God always says what He means and He means what He says.

So, today if you have been one of those who have tried ‘religion’ and are still feeling empty, lonely and hurting; let me encourage you to find a Bible Believing Church; one who preaches and teaches Jesus Christ and get connected.

If you live in the Pottstown, Pennsylvania area and are looking for a church of people who love Jesus and are devoted to following Him; then I invite you to join us on Sunday mornings at 10am.

426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

 Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy Mckinley at: 
mckinleyclm@gmail.com
 



Check out some of my other blogs:
The Fruit of The Spirit http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-fruit-of-spirit_13.html 
Go Away Jesus! http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2012/11/go-away-jesus.htm 
Posted by at No comments:

The Fruit of The Spirit

My husband, Pastor Robin McKinley, just published his first children's book titled 'The Contest'. 'The Contest' teaches children what the Fruit of the Spirit is in a story about a farmer who wants to have the biggest, the juiciest, the plumpest, and the sweetest grapes in the whole county. The unpredictable twist at the end teaches the most valuable lesson of all.



You can hear the story by going to: 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yRF4q1rGYU&feature=youtu.be 

Order your copy today by going to:



426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

  

 
Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy McKinley at:







Check out some of my other blogs:

 

 

Posted by at No comments:

Friday, June 7, 2013

Religion

Ritual or Relationship?

Many in North America view Christianity as a religion. However, Christianity is not a religion at all; it is an intimate, growing relationship with none other than Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God. It is not a set of doctrines to believe, habits to practice, or sins to avoid.

To be a Christian means one is ‘Christ Like’. In the book of Acts we can read in that; “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” Why the word Christian? Because they were devoted followers of Jesus. Their relationship with Jesus had changed their lives drastically and their actions and speech reflected who they had become; like Christ.

God does not give us guidelines to be mean or cruel. Every command of God is intended to enhance His love relationship with His creation, mankind.

We have been designed to worship God and to see Him in His glory and to respond appropriately. Unfortunately, for many it has become a ‘religion’; one more meeting to attend out of habit, a social gathering filled with social activities.

God is longing for His creation to express their love for Him. Many time we feel if we use our gifts and talents in doing good deeds for others in our community we will appease God and pacify our guilty conscience.

God is a personal God, and He has given us prayer as a means of communicating with Him. Prayer is nothing more than talking with God like you would talk to a very close friend. After all, that is exactly what He longs to be; your very close friend. 

Proverbs 18:24 says, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Communication is a two way street. As you spend time talking with God take time to listen to what is on His heart a well. Yes, it is true God wants to speak to you! The greatest way He speaks in through His written Word the Holy Bible. Before you go to read, ask Him to speak to you and He will.

God instituted His commandments as a protection for those He loves, but the commandments can become a pathway to legalism rather than a avenue for a relationship with our Father in which He protects us from harm.

Religious activity apart from fellowship with God is nothing more than an empty ritual. The people of Jeremiah’s day were satisfied to have the ritual without the presence of God. They became so comfortable with their ‘religion’ that they didn’t even notice God’s absence. Their story is found in the Holy Bible in the book of  Jeremiah.


So, is it possible to pray, to attend a church service, or to give an offering yet not to experience the presence of God? It certainly is possible! And sad to say thousands of hurting people; looking for hope, peace and comfort have faced this emptiness. Many have said, “What the use. There is nothing to this ‘religion’ stuff.” 


Let me encourage you ... Don’t settle for a religious life that lacks a vital relationship with Jesus Christ. When God is present, the difference will be obvious.

God wants us to experience Him and His presence.

Jesus said in the book of Matthew, chapter 18, verse 20 “Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”  He is not a liar. God always says what He means and He means what He says.

So, today if you have been one of those who have tried ‘religion’ and are still feeling empty, lonely and hurting; let me encourage you to find a Bible Believing Church; one who preaches and teaches Jesus Christ and get connected.

If you live in the Pottstown, Pennsylvania area and are looking for a church of people who love Jesus and are devoted to following Him; then I invite you to join us on Sunday mornings at 10am.

426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

 Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy Mckinley at:
mckinleyclm@gmail.com
 



Check out some of my other blogs:
The Contest http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-contest.html





Transition vs. Transformation    
Choose Your Battles  http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2012/03/choose-your-battles_14.html

I Am Free   http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2012/07/i-am-free.html
Pigs In The River  http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2013/01/pigs-in-river.html
Posted by at No comments:

Christianity

Ritual or Relationship?

Many in North America view Christianity as a religion. However, Christianity is not a religion at all; it is an intimate, growing relationship with none other than Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God. It is not a set of doctrines to believe, habits to practice, or sins to avoid.

To be a Christian means one is ‘Christ Like’. In the book of Acts we can read in that; “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” Why the word Christian? Because they were devoted followers of Jesus. Their relationship with Jesus had changed their lives drastically and their actions and speech reflected who they had become; like Christ.

God does not give us guidelines to be mean or cruel. Every command of God is intended to enhance His love relationship with His creation, mankind.

We have been designed to worship God and to see Him in His glory and to respond appropriately. Unfortunately, for many it has become a ‘religion’; one more meeting to attend out of habit, a social gathering filled with social activities.

God is longing for His creation to express their love for Him. Many time we feel if we use our gifts and talents in doing good deeds for others in our community we will appease God and pacify our guilty conscience.

God is a personal God, and He has given us prayer as a means of communicating with Him. Prayer is nothing more than talking with God like you would talk to a very close friend. After all, that is exactly what He longs to be; your very close friend. 

Proverbs 18:24 says, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Communication is a two way street. As you spend time talking with God take time to listen to what is on His heart a well. Yes, it is true God wants to speak to you! The greatest way He speaks in through His written Word the Holy Bible. Before you go to read, ask Him to speak to you and He will.

God instituted His commandments as a protection for those He loves, but the commandments can become a pathway to legalism rather than a avenue for a relationship with our Father in which He protects us from harm.

Religious activity apart from fellowship with God is nothing more than an empty ritual. The people of Jeremiah’s day were satisfied to have the ritual without the presence of God. They became so comfortable with their ‘religion’ that they didn’t even notice God’s absence. Their story is found in the Holy Bible in the book of  Jeremiah.


So, is it possible to pray, to attend a church service, or to give an offering yet not to experience the presence of God? It certainly is possible! And sad to say thousands of hurting people; looking for hope, peace and comfort have faced this emptiness. Many have said, “What the use. There is nothing to this ‘religion’ stuff.” 


Let me encourage you ... Don’t settle for a religious life that lacks a vital relationship with Jesus Christ. When God is present, the difference will be obvious.

God wants us to experience Him and His presence.

Jesus said in the book of Matthew, chapter 18, verse 20 “Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”  He is not a liar. God always says what He means and He means what He says.

So, today if you have been one of those who have tried ‘religion’ and are still feeling empty, lonely and hurting; let me encourage you to find a Bible Believing Church; one who preaches and teaches Jesus Christ and get connected.

If you live in the Pottstown, Pennsylvania area and are looking for a church of people who love Jesus and are devoted to following Him; then I invite you to join us on Sunday mornings at 10am.

426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

 Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy Mckinley at:
 



Check out some of my other blogs:
The Contest http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-contest.html

Transition vs. Transformation    
Choose Your Battles  http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2012/03/choose-your-battles_14.html

I Am Free   http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2012/07/i-am-free.html
Pigs In The River  http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2013/01/pigs-in-river.html
Posted by at No comments:

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Spending Time With God

Power of Prayer

I got up early one morning and rushed into the day;
I had so much to accomplish that I didn't have time to pray.

Problems just tumbled about me, and heavier came each task.
"Why doesn't God help me?" I wondered. He answered, "You
          didn't  ask."

I wanted to see joy and beauty, but the day toiled on, gray and
          bleak;
I wondered why God didn't show me. He said, "But you didn't ask."

I tried to come into God's presence; I used all my keys at the lock.
God gently and lovingly chided, "My child, you didn't knock."

I work up early this morning, and paused before entering the day;
I had so much to accomplish that I had to take they time to pray.

--- Author Unknown

We have all heard it said, "People do what they want to do."

There was a time in my life when I would allow the 'To Do' list to consume my day. How easy it is to fall into the trap of doing what is urgent instead of what is important. Once again it all comes down to choices. 

I have come to know there is nothing more rewarding than spending time alone with God. He know all about me, the good and the bad and yet He still loves me. 

Spending time with Him and reading His Word has made me the person I am today. I often say, "I may not be where I want to be but praise God I am not where I was!" 

Where are you today? Do you wish you could be closer to God? Do you wish you could have peace in your heart and healing from all the hurt and pain you have experienced in your life? Well you can...As you start spending time with God talking to Him, listening to Him and Obeying His Word, The Bible you will soon find your life changing...changing for the better.

If you would like to know more about how to spend time along with God  check out my blog on 'How To Talk To God'

Think about it, God, the creator of the entire universe whats to spend time with you! He wants a relationship with you! He loves you so much and He wants you to get to know Him.


426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

 Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy Mckinley at:





Check out some of my other blogs:
The  Contest http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-contest.html






Posted by at No comments:

How To Talk To God

Have you ever stopped to think that God, the creator of the universe whats to spend time alone with you? Well, He does.

Think about it, God, the creator of the entire universe whats to spend time alone with you! He wants a relationship with you! He loves you so much and He wants you to get to know Him.

Prayer has always been one of the stumbling blocks for so many people. Even those who have been in the church for a long time can find themselves wondering how to pray.

I want to encourage you to take at least 15 minutes a day to spend time alone with God. Right now, you may be wondering: 

How can I talk to God?
Talking God to is like talking to your best friend who loves you and desires the best for you, and wants to help you in every way possible.  You simply tell Him what you would tell your friend. He really wants to hear what you have to day.

What do I say?
At first you might feel quite strange and it might even seem embarrassing. A good place to start is simply introducing yourself to Him. You may even want to tell him, "I'm new at this and I'm not quite sure what to say." That's OK. The more you talk to Him the more comfortable you will get with Him. Remember, it's like meeting a new friend. In fact, that is exactly what you are doing! You can talk to God about anything.

Thank Him for all He has done for you. It may not seem as tho He has done anything for you, and it's OK to tell Him that. If that is the case, ask Him to show you the times He has been with you when you didn't even know it. He will show you!

Confess your sins to Him. Tell God about the things you have done, said and even thought that you know in your heart was wrong. Don't hold anything back. Tell Him everything. Remember, He love you. He tells us in 1 John 1:9 that "He is faithful and just and forgives us of all our sins." When we confess our sins and ask for forgiveness ... He forgives us and writes our name in His record book, called, The Lambs Book Of Life. Every name written in His book will have access into His Heaven.

Pray for yourself. As God to show you the right way for your life. Ask His to bring people into your life that will help you come to know Him is a deeper way. Ask Him to teach you how to live a life that is pleasing to Him. for guidance for the day ahead. Ask God to help you do His will.

Spend time reading His Word the Bible. Reading the Bible is God's way of speaking to us. There are many translations, find one you understand and start reading. Some good translations to choose from are the New International Version (NIV), New English Translation (NET), God's Word Translation, The Message Translation.

There are two places you can start reading: First, the Proverbs which is located in the Old Testament. Proverbs is a book filled with great wisdom on how to make wise choices as we live our life on earth.  Second, is the gospels which are the first four books of the New Testament. These books will show who Jesus is and how much He loved and cared for people. He has not changed! He still loves and cares for people today.

You may be wondering:

Where do I find the time?
It doesn't matter the time of day or where you are. The important things is that you do it. If you are a morning person, like myself, then get up 15 minutes earlier. If you are a night person, then take 15 minutes before going to bed.

Many people use the time driving back and forth to work as their time. They listen to the Bible on CD and talk to God about their day ahead along with listening to music that given them encouragement for their soul.

~ ~ ~ ~

I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. In Jesus Name, Amen


If you would like to know more about how to spend time along with God  check out my blog on 'Spending Time With God'



426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

 Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy Mckinley at:





Check out some of my other blogs:
The Contest http://cccenterhope.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-contest.html




Posted by at No comments:

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

The Fruit of the Spirit

The Contest
Written by: Robin McKinley
Illustrated by: Carrie Kingsbury

"The Contest" is an illustrated children's book teaching the Fruit of the Spirit in a story about a farmer who wants to have the biggest, the juiciest, the plumpest, and the sweetest grapes in the whole county.

Each grape has its own captivating personality which depicts a different fruit of the Spirit that your children will fall in love with. The unpredictable twist at the end teaches the most valuable lesson of all. It will allow children of all ages to grow to be what God wants them to be.

"The Contest" has been a favorite for countless children throughout the years.

Robin and his wife Cindy have been in the ministry for over thirty years. They started their ministry as Children's Evangelists.

You can hear the story by going to: 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yRF4q1rGYU&feature=youtu.be 

Order your copy today by going to: https://www.createspace.com/4139772 



426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

 Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy Mckinley at:


Check out some of my other blogs:


Posted by at No comments:

The Contest

The Contest
Written by: Robin McKinley
Illustrated by: Carrie Kingsbury

"The Contest" is an illustrated children's book teaching the Fruit of the Spirit in a story about a farmer who wants to have the biggest, the juiciest, the plumpest, and the sweetest grapes in the whole county.

Each grape has its own captivating personality which depicts a different fruit of the Spirit that your children will fall in love with. The unpredictable twist at the end teaches the most valuable lesson of all. It will allow children of all ages to grow to be what God wants them to be.

"The Contest" has been a favorite for countless children throughout the years.

Robin and his wife Cindy have been in the ministry for over thirty years. They started their ministry as Children's Evangelists.

 You can listen to the story by going to:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yRF4q1rGYU&feature=youtu.be
Order your copy today by going to:



426 Laurelwood Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
610-323-0480

 Feel free to e-mail me:
Cindy Mckinley at:


Check out some of my other blogs:


Posted by at No comments:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)