Highlighting 2012 - Reflections of Grace

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith." Hebrews 12:1-2a

Next Step Devotion

It happens every year. Christmas stockings are emptied and our cherished Christmas ornaments are gradually removed from the tree, leaving us gazing forward, eagerly planning for the New Year. You never seem to "believe" that another year has blazed past. However, this year I imagine many are looking toward 2013 with relief and anticipation, praying it holds renewed hope and blessing. 

It's so easy to slam shut the door of 2012 without taking intentional time for reflection, thanking the Lord for how he revealed his mighty hand in our lives. As the writer instructed in the book of Hebrews, we should fix our eyes on Jesus and keep running the race marked out for us. But you cannot "strip off every weight" without taking the time to allow God to reveal the weights you may be carrying. Every year we add "weights" to our lives, often times unexpected and unrealized - broken relationships, financial debt, uncertainly and anxiety about the future, new health struggles, and unfulfilled hopes, just to name a few. 

Philippians 4 is cherished for its comforting instructions to trade worry for thanksgiving and anxiety for peace. Yet we often stop after verse 7. There are some key instructions in verse 8-9 that I feel we should not overlook: 

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." (Phil 4:8-9)

Paul often instructed those he mentored to model their lives after him, as he was modeling his life after Jesus Christ. As Paul closed out this powerful letter of encouragement, his final thoughts were a call for reflection. He desired that the church of Philippi would reflect upon all that he had taught and modeled and that they had heard and seen. The church was to put these lessons into practice moving forward. All scripture is inspired by God and purposed for us as well (2 Tim 3:16), so this call for reflection also rests upon our lives.

What have you "learned or received or heard or seen" from God in 2012? Did God discipline you through a bitter root in your life? Maybe the Holy Spirit shed new light on His word, or allowed your to see breakthrough in an area of prayer. Perhaps you received healing to your body or soul, or experienced reconciliation in an important relationship. Perhaps you do not see the hand of God in your life much at all over the past year. Why is that? Did you commit your time, energy, thought life, and attitudes to Jesus Christ? Were you fixed upon what is "true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is lovely?" 

The dawn of 2013 is nigh, but do not make the mistake of believing you can fully set your eyes upon Jesus and begin anew your race without first stripping off every weight. Take some time to reflect upon the grace of Jesus Christ evidenced in your life over the past year. Submit to him any areas of sin, doubt, or discouragement you may be feeling. Allow the Lord to remove those weights of life from your wrists and ankles, renewing a right spirit in you and strengthening you for the race ahead. 

If you do not know how to begin, here are some starter questions that might help you begin your dialogue with the Lord: 

1. What activity or event gave me great joy in 2012?
2. What activity or event was painful to endure? 
3. Is there anyone I need to forgive before the New Year begins?
4. Is there a conversation that I need to have with another before the New Year?
5. What spiritual discipline needs more focus in my life? - Scripture reading, prayer, fasting
6. What is one activity or event that I saw God's hand guiding or assisting me? 

God promises us plans of hope for our future (Jer 29:11), so look forward to this New Year clinging to the eternal hope of Jesus Christ! 

Isaiah 40:31 - "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."


Interview Recaps

This week on New Day Cafe we took some time to reflect as well, highlighting interviews that we feel God used mightily in the lives of our listeners. We pray these highlights have blessed you this week, renewing your strength for the journey!

• Mike Chambers - Wells in Africa Ministry - LISTEN

• Woodrow Krill - Back to the Bible Ministry - Finishing Strong - LISTEN

• http://www.backtothebible.org/ 

• Dr. Tony Evans - Kingdom Man - LISTEN PART 1 - LISTEN PART 2

• http://www.kingdommanbook.com/ 

• Man on the Street - Heaven and Hell - LISTEN

• Luis Palau - Out of the Desert - LISTEN PART 1 - LISTEN PART 2

• Mary Kassian - Girls Gone Wise in a World Gone Wild - LISTEN

• John & Kendra Smiley - Finish Strong in Marriage - LISTEN PART 1, LISTEN PART 2

Key Scriptures

Lamentations 3:22-24 - "The unfailing love of the LORD never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, "The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!" 

Isaiah 40:31 - "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will direct your paths." 

Ezekiel 36:25-26 - " I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh 

Hebrews 12:10-11 - "...God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."



May your New Year be full of the peace and hope of Jesus Christ!

Melissa Rogers
Moody Radio South
www.moodyradiosouth.fm

And He Shall be Called WONDERFUL!

"For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Martin  Houston, Rob Moore, and Karen Worley

Merry Christmas from our Moody Radio South family to yours!! We pray that your CHRIST-mas season is full of the life and joy of our Lord Jesus Christ. We've been celebrating around the studio a little bit (including   Melissa's Peanut Brittle and Martin's wife Cassandra's famous red velvet cake, yummm). Here's a couple snapshots from our staff Christmas party!

Frank Edmondson (WMBU), Shane Dorrill, &John Rogers

If you have been regularly listening to Moody Radio South, then you know that for the past several days we have been airing some of the seasons most celebratory Christmas tunes. Now, Christmas music is one of those things that I have found some people just LOVE and look forward to throughout the entire year, and for others it cannot be over soon enough! However, I spent some time with the Lord this year and asked Him to reveal to me fresh and anew the beauty found in these Christmas lyrics. Soon enough my ears were flooded with the marvelous wonders of our Emmanuel  who brought peace on earth and good will to men. My spirit began to leap as I imagined the heavenly host of angels that stand before the throne of Christ this very moment all reverently singing "Gloria, Gloria!" God certainly bestowed to me a fresh appreciation for and ability to worship through both the classic and contemporary Christmas tunes this season. 

How about you? How has the Christmas music spoken to your heart this year? Is there a particular Christmas Carol that pierces you heart to the core and humbles you before our King, who gave up all the glory and riches of heaven to come save us for all of eternity? We would love to hear from you! Just email us at newdaycafe@moody.edu or comment below!

This morning driving to the studio the Lord carried me through what I like to call an "Elijah" moment. It's a moment where I almost escape the world and enter the gates of heaven in worship...even if just for a split second. As I drove I began hearing this melodious sonnet, proclaiming, "Wonderful! He is Wonderful! Emmanuel, God with us! Prince of Peace!" Upon arrival I immediately jumped on my computer to re-read the glorious scripture found in Isaiah 9 where the coming Messiah is prophesied. "His name shall be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6) 

Most of us can quote this scripture. We have sung it in hymns and often include these names of God in our prayers. But there are depths unspeakable within these titles for our Savior. Through these names, God revealed the extravagance of His very essence to man-kind with the purpose for us to know Him personally. So let's break down these revelations for a moment: 

Wonderful Counselor - Our world today loves "counsel." Our stores our lined with self-help books and there or millions of websites to counsel your marriage, finances, parenting, and health. However, Jesus is the only true counselor. The adjective Wonderful refers to the supernatural qualities of this counselor that place Him high and above all others. Our counselor is sinless, an all-sufficient Savior, and sits at the right hand of God Himself! Our counselor is readily available and has all wisdom for any and every aspect of your life. He is the author of wisdom! 

Mighty God - Our God is the ultimate warrior! He is mighty above all schemes of the enemy and will establish eternal victory,  ruling and reigning over the entire earth. That means that He also is the Mighty God who brings victory to the battles raging in your life. Whether your children have walked away from Christ, your spouse has be unfaithful to you, your bank account is depleted, or any other painful challenge, call upon the Mighty God to bring His perfect eternal victory to that area of your life. He is mighty to save!

Everlasting Father - First, God is everlasting! His throne is established forever and ever. But our God is also Father, and we are His children (Gal 3:26). He cares for us with all tender love, claiming us as His very own. He holds great plans for our future, and He supports and sustains us every step of the way. He comforts us with His love. No matter the relationship you hold with your earthly father, you can be sure that God the Father is there, and He will never leave nor forsake you (Duet. 31:6)

Prince of Peace - Christ game to grant peace to the world by restoring a right relationship between God and man (Eph 2:16). However, He also came to establish peace in your life personally. Often when Jesus healed, His final words were "Go in Peace." (Luke 7:50; 8:48.) This blessing of peace is reiterated to us through the New Testament (Luke 2:14; Romans 15:13; 1 Cor 14:33; Phil 4:7). Through the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, we have access to peace within our lives - body, soul, mind and spirit. There is peace between us and God, and we now have the opportunity to establish that same peace in our world!

Emmanuel - Matthew 1:23 expounds for us that Emmanuel means "God With Us." This name of God is a revelation of the hope we have in Christ Jesus! No matter how desperate the conditions of man, God came to be with us, to save us, and gave us His Holy Spirit to remain with us until His return. Our God is unlike any other God, in that He came personally and tangibly to us, and He remains personally with us today. If you are hurt, hopeless, or feeling alone this season, remember Emmanuel! God is with you!

So who is Jesus to you? Is He your wonderful counselor, mighty victor, everlasting father, prince of peace? Do you know Emmanuel  the God who is forever with you personally and intimately, guiding you through every trial. Jesus revealed Himself to the world as each of these names and more, and you can know him as such today! Call out to Jesus today, claiming the knowledge of His character revealed through scripture. His name is established forever and ever. All glory to God in the highest!

"O Come let us adore Him,

O Come let us adore Him,

O Come let us adore Him, 

Christ the Lord!" 

Key Scriptures: 

1 Chronicles 29:11 - Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your Kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things." 

Zephaniah 3:17 - For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." 

Matthew 1:23 - Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel, which means God is with us." 

Luke 2:14 - Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests. 

Romans 8:15 - The spirit you received does not make you slaves. so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry out, "Abba, Father." 

Merry Christmas from our Family to Yours!

Melissa Rogers

Moody Radio South

www.moodyradiosouth.fm 

The Christmas Story....Jesus is Born!

MERRY CHRISTMAS! 

We pray that this week you are experiencing the joy of our salvation through Jesus Christ in your life, families, and workplaces. This week's blog presents a special opportunity to win several of Dr. Gary Chapman's books for children including A Perfect Pet for Peyton and The 5 Love Languages for Children. Entry can be found further in the blog, but first "take the next step" with us as we recapture the inspiring journey through The Christmas Story heard this week on New Day Cafe!

Next Step Devotion

Tree leaves begin their transformation from bright green to the soothing autumn shades of yellow, red, and orange. The cool afternoon breeze begins billowing through your front door step, and soon the fireplace sparks its first evening fire. As the season changes from summer to fall and fall to winter, it's hard to escape those first moments of anticipation for the coming Christmas season! But what first crossed your mind this year when you thought about Christmas? Was it the family gatherings, gift buying, tree decorating, or maybe even the annual church Christmas program? Were your thoughts filled with elves, Santa Clause, and twinkle lights? Or were your first thoughts centered upon the true reason for the season, Jesus Christ? 

While it has not always been the case, the true Christmas story of Jesus Christ has been traded in for one that feeds the commercialized industry of our modern culture. However, with economic uncertainty and, for many Americans, the pain of a tumultuous year still lingering, I believe there has been a resurgence in the focus on Jesus Christ, at least within the Christian community. Our nation is poised for the message of hope that the Christmas story offers. So this week on New Day Cafe we focused exclusively upon the Christmas story of Jesus Christ, taking an in depth look at the shepherds, the Bethlehem star, and the values of our Lord that were revealed that starry night of Jesus' birth. 

Storyteller Jack Day spent two days recounting the story of Jesus birth from the gospel of Luke, capturing both the magnificence and humility surrounding the coming of the Messiah. Imagine the moment when the angel come to Mary - a poor, uneducated, teenage virgin - and proclaimed that she was highly favored among women and would carry the hope of the world within her very tummy! You can almost hear the silence as the angels gazed towards this pivotal moment in history with eager anticipation. The Great I Am chose the most unlikely of humans to deliver His Son to the world. Remember that this is at a time in history with no running water, no electricity, no modern medicine, and Roman oppression! But what glory the meekness of Mary's circumstances brought to God as she faithfully declared, "may it be until me as you have said." (Luke 1:38) 

As you progress in reading the Christmas story, you learn that three wise men took note of an intriguing and extraordinarily bright star shining in the night sky. In our interview with Rick Larson, developer of the revolutionary DVD Documentary The Star of Bethlehem, we learned that there is scientific evidence to prove that this special star was set into motion at the creation point of the universe. This star moved on a divine clock-work to appear in the sky at this specific point in history - the coming of Jesus. God planned from the beginning of time to use this star to announce the birth of The Messiah! What a omnipotent representation of God's sovereignty, His attention to detail, and His use of creation to speak directly to His people. 

The Christmas story of Jesus Christ reveals to us the very core of God's character and desire for mankind - LOVE. We spoke about this in our interview with Darryl Nyznyk, author of the inspiring Christmas novel Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas. Before the beginning of the world God chose us to display his love and salvation. He chose us to spend eternity with Him! He set all things sovereignly into motion to come to earth through His Son at the perfect point in history, and He divinely inspired the gospel writers to capture the Christmas story so that we can forever look forward to the hope of his second coming. 

Through the humble circumstances surrounding Jesus birth, we are reminded that the things of this world pale in comparison to the glory that is Jesus Christ our Lord. We are reminded that that Jesus came to earth not to rule over us as man, but to offer to us freely the gift of salvation, living with Him in His eternal kingdom. As the star shined in the sky, we now carry God's light inside of us with the purpose to shine into the darkness and bring hope to a lost and weary world. 

The Christmas season presents a tremendous opportunity for us to share the gospel with those around us. So next time your thoughts turn to Santa's bag of presents, take a moment to re-position your heart and mind on the greatest present in all of history, the gift of Jesus Christ. 

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!



Interview Recaps

• Jack Day - Bible Storyteller - The Christmas Story - http://biblestorytelling.org/
• Jack is available to share his storytelling gift with your congregation! 
• Bob Waliszewski - Plugged In Holiday Movie Reviews - http://www.pluggedin.com/movies.aspx
• Don Hawkins - How to Beat the Holiday Blues - http://www.amazon.com/Happy-Holidays-Holiday-Enrichment-Series/dp/0801062721
• Rev. Bruce Robinson - Mt. Olive Baptist - The Shepherds of The Christmas Story
• Patty Kirk - The Gospel of Christmas - http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?isbn=083083785X&event=AFF&p=1022507
• Rick Larson - The Star of Bethlehem - http://www.bethlehemstar.net/
• Devin Brown - The Christian World of the Hobbit - http://www.abingdonpress.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=7330
• Dr. Charlie Dyer - Christmas in the Holy Land - http://www.moodyradio.org/thelandandthebook/
• Darryl Nyznyk - Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas - http://www.marysson.com/marysson.html

Key Scriptures

Luke 1:38 - "I am the Lord's Servant," Mary answered, "Let is be unto me as you have said." 

Luke 2:6-7 - While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Matthew 2:1-2 - After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." 

Luke 2:13-15 - Suddenly a great company of the heavenly hosts appeared with the angel , praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." 

John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. 

John 8:12 - When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

CONTEST ENTRY

OK, here it is! Click the link below to enter to win two of Dr. Gary Chapman's books made specifically for children: A Pet for Peyton and The 5 Love Languages for Children. You can enter now through December 21st. This would make a great way to spend quality time with your children. Happy entering!

Enter by clicking: http://bit.ly/SYUtah

Blessings and Merry Christmas!

Melissa Rogers

Moody Radio South

Preparing for Christmas with Christ

December 3 - 7 - Preparing for Christmas with Christ

Next Step Devotional Thought

The Christmas season sparks abounding joy, celebration, and anticipation for a much needed respite at the culmination of what is often a long and strenuous year. However, for many the Christmas season incites its own hustle and bustle, leaving financially strapped parents and families grieving another Christmas without their loved ones more exhausted than before it began.

Without intentional focus the present buying, party planning, house cleaning, and family traveling can quickly consume the true meaning of this Christmas season, which is Jesus Christ! So how can we prepare for Christmas in a way that keeps Christ at the center? How can we release the frenzy and stress and truly encompass the joy, peace, hope, and  praise brought by the birth of Jesus? 

Our interviews this week on New Day Cafe addressed how to prepare for Christmas with Christ. Drawing from conversations with our interview guests, here are a few tips to incorporate into your Christmas preparations that can help keep the peace and set the focus on Jesus Christ: 

1. Keep it Simple

In a commercialized world it may seem foreign to celebrate Christmas without attending every party, setting up thousands of twinkle lights, and purchasing every gift on your child's "wish list." However, think about the example set by the birth of Jesus Christ. Jesus entered the world in a lowly stable surrounded by cows and goats.You can relieve much of the stress and financial strain of the Christmas season simply by pulling back and focusing on what really matters: time with family, worship of Jesus, resting from the year's labors, giving and serving others. Invite your family and friends over for a meal and worship, read the Christmas story, and let Christ remain the focus!

2. Take Care of Yourself Physically

We've all heard about "letting yourself go" during the holidays. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with celebrating over special meals and enjoying Christmas goodies, it is also important to take care of your body during the season. Proper sleep, exercise, and mental respite is much needed when you're frantically finalizing  your Christmas shopping and planning. Rev. George McLaird, author of A Guide to Spiritual Living, shared some great tips for taking care of yourself in our interview this week. Spend some extra time reading a good book, listening to your favorite Christmas Carols, or taking walks in the park with your spouse or children. In order to soak in the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ, we might just need to take some intentional steps to separate ourselves from the world and rest in Him. 

3. Spend Quality Time with Family

The Christmas season offers several unique opportunities for families to spend quality time together. Church Christmas productions (such as those at FBC Tuscaloosa, Calvary Baptist, Forest Lake Baptist, and Shades Mountain Baptist), community events (such as The Nutcracker, Symphony Concerts, and Festivals), and community parades all provide fun-filled experiences for the entire family. This week we spoke with Leon Wirth, Executive Director of Youth and Parenting at Focus on the Family, about how to create lasting Christmas traditions with your children. Some great ideas are to use an Advent Calendar, reading a new scripture and learning a new aspect of the Christmas story each day with your children. You could even do an Advent treasure hunt! You can find many more ideas about teaching your children to keep Christ the focus of Christmas at www.thrivingfamily.com 

4. Serve Others in Need

One of the best ways to keep Jesus the focus is to serve others (Jesus came to serve!) Have your family adopt a child in need through Samaritan's Purse, adopt a family in need in your church or neighborhood, or even select a local ministry for which you can purchase gifts and needed supplies. Go serve a meal at a local soup kitchen or a community outreach meal at a local shelter. You could write special notes of encouragement to your Pastors. These are all great ways to keep the focus on giving during the holidays, and children love it! What a better way to display Christ's love to the world than by meeting the tangible needs of others. 

So this Christmas season, make sure that you prepare with Jesus! While it is certainly exciting to give presents, share your prized Christmas cookies at the office, and place the star at the top of your perfect tree, it is even more exciting to share Jesus Christ with a lost and hurting world. 

One final note! Here at Moody Radio South with have special "Christ IS Christmas" decals for your car window! You can call us at (205) 758-7900 or email moodyradiosouth@moody.edu for yours today!

Interview Recaps

• Shades Mountain Christmas - Fear Not! - http://www.shades.org/
• Pamela Thompson - Restorative Practices - Ways to Avoid Holiday Stress
• Leon Wirth with Focus on the Family - Christmas with your Children! - www.thrivingfamily.com
• Rev. George McLaird - A Healthy Holiday - Body, Mind, Spirit - http://mclaird.com/
• Tuscaloosa Symphony Christmas Around the World - http://tsoonline.org/
• Tuscaloosa Nutcracker - http://www.tuscaloosacommunitydancers.com/nutcracker-2012.html
• Christmas Tips with Kristie Drake! - http://www.strengtheningme.org/blog

Key Scriptures

Isaiah 9:6 - For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be on his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not worry about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,  will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Zechariah 9:9 - Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey. 

Luke 2:14 - Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!

Romans 15:13 - May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. 

Merry Christmas!

Melissa Rogers
Moody Radio South 

Navigating Mid-Life...

Nov 26 - 30: Navigating Mid-Life

Next Step Devotional Thought

This week during our New Day Cafe morning show we were "Navigating Mid-Life." Mid-life can creep up on you, slipping in new emotions, family changes, financial struggles, and even spiritual re-assessment that you never before anticipated. Many may not ever think about "mid-life" until they have arrived. That very thing happened to our morning co-host, Martin Houston, who during our planning meeting suddenly exclaimed, "I just realized! I'm in mid-life!"

So take a seat and strap on your seat belt as we navigate of few of the "mid-life" mile markers covered during our morning show this week: 


1. What about Retirement? 

Retirement is often a word conjuring up hope filled day dreams of lazing mornings, resting in the sun on some tropical island far, very far, away from the stresses and strains found in the day-to-day grind you currently face. But is this ideal Biblical? What does God have to say about retirement? Retirement in itself is certainly not a bad thing, as the Lord includes many things about the importance of rest from our labor (Mark 6:31, Ecc. 5:12) However, storing up riches in our barns and packing up our life to fulfill our own idealized sense of ease is certainly not in line with God's Word (Luke 12:16-21)

Have you ever thought about retirement as a new opportunity to serve Christ? Have you thought about all that you could do to invest in the Kingdom of God with eight additional free hours each day? This week Don Hawkins of Southeastern Bible College spoke with a gentlemen who took this approach to retirement, seeking out opportunities to serve Christ and landing as a full-time servant with the Marketplace Chaplains USA Ministry. 

When dreaming of retirement, let God's Word be your guide when Jesus taught, "But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

2. The Empty Nest Syndrome

You've spent the last 20 years of your life with nearly every thought, decision, and dollar focused on your children. They've grow up and are "leaving the nest." Now what? So many mothers and fathers face this very question, encountering a bundle of emotions ranging from excitement about the possibilities of a new future to feelings of grief for the life and purpose thought to be lost. 

The "empty nest" can also erupt an entire new host of family dynamics. How do you relate to your spouse now that the children are gone? How do you relate to you now adult child? What happens when they get married? Will you still be needed? What purpose will guide your life? 

Karen Worley spoke this week with Susan Yates, co-author of  Barbara and Susan's Guide to the Empty Nest. Susan offered some wise guidance when it comes to facing the empty nest:

- Remember the "Season Principle" - This period of transition is just another season of your life through which you will travel. Nothing is new under the sun! (Ecc. 1:9) 

- Make your Marriage the Priority - Make new decisions about how you will spend your evenings and weekends - include fun and adventure! Treat your marriage as if you are dating again, rediscovering each others interests and passions. 

- Adult-Child Balance Act - Find a healthy balance in your relationship with your adult child. You will be tempted to be either a "helicopter" parent who texts or calls your child nearly every day, or you will be a hands-off parent, going weeks without calling. 

- Reassess and Reevaluate - Encourage each other within your marriage to pursue interests that you haven't had time to consider. Spend time in God's Word to discover the callings he has for all of us as believers. 

3. Caring for Aging Parents

Perhaps the task of caring for aging parents can be the most difficult of all during mid-life. The simultaneous juggling of providing for financially dependent children and running parents to doctors appointments can seen nearly impossible. Melissa Rogers spoke this week with Julie-Allyson Ieron, author of An Overwhelmed Woman's Guide to Caring for Aging Parents about many practical issues encountered when caring for parents. We would like to provide you with more encouragement and guidance, so we share with you Julie's Caregiving blog at http://womencareforagingparents.blogspot.com/.

A few notes to keep in mind when it comes to care taking for aging parents include the call to honor and respect our parents, God's principle of valuing life, and the call to support and encourage one another in the body of Christ. One of the most overwhelming aspects of caring for parents is that many people feel utterly alone. We must remember to support one another in the body of Christ, lifting each other up through prayer, scripture, and tangible assistance (providing meals, providing respite, etc.) (1 Thess. 5:11) 


If you are journeying the highway of "mid-life," we pray this week was of great encouragement to you! Remember that through every year of your life, God is right there with you! His Word provides all the guidance we need to navigate our lives in a way that glorifies Him. 


Interview Recaps

• Ministry as an Alternative to Retirement - Marketplace Chaplains Ministry
• Navigating Mid-Life Financially - Robin Nichols of Mississippi Baptist Financial Services
• An Overwhelmed Woman's Guide to Caring for Aging Parents - Julie Allyson Ieron
• Barbara and Susan's Guide to the Empty Nest - Susan Yates
• Embracing Mid-Life - Lynne Baab

Key Scriptures

Hebrews 13:5 - Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'

Ecclesiastes 3:1 - To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 - Therefore, encourage one another, and build one another up, just as in fact you are doing." 

Exodus 9:16 - For this very purpose have I let you live, that I might show you my power, and that My name may be declared throughout all the earth.

Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for good and not to harm you, to give you a hope and a future.

Hebrews 10:36 - You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For, in just a little while he who is coming will come and will not delay.

Matthew 11:28 - Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest.

Rest in God's Word today!

Blessings,

Melissa Rogers

Moody Radio South

What Happened to Heaven and Hell?

Nov 12-16 - What Happened to Heaven and Hell? 


Next Step Devotion
Heaven and Hell. From cartoons, to fiction novels, artistic masterpieces to the Sunday pulpit, these two ideologies are ingrained in the fabric of society. Not everyone living in this modern day considers heaven or hell a reality. Nevertheless, nearly every human being holds some sort of belief system regarding heaven, hell, or both. Our entire existence inches daily towards the inescapable reality of death. Whether they admit it or not, heaven and hell has crossed every person's mind!  

So what happened to heaven and hell? In generations past it seemed the message of salvation could not be preached without the poignant illustrations of the lake of fire reserved for those who refuse Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. However, today this truth is often watered down, preaching with vitality the message of grace and love (as we should) while simultaneously ignoring the painful reality that love cannot express itself through grace if a soul chooses to reject and rebel against the Lordship of Christ. 

Everyone loves the idea of heaven. A land of radiant lights spiraling the color spectrum through the sky, voices from every nation singing together in unity, absolutely zero physical or emotional pain, and death is a concept forever erased. Yes, heaven is our great hope as believers of Jesus Christ! But we cannot sacrifice the reality of hell for the sake of adding numbers to our church membership list or campus ministries. Unfortunately, many misconceptions about heaven and hell, even within the church, have added to this dilution of the gospel. 


I hope you caught our interview with Dr. Rebecca Janney this week on New Day Cafe. We discussed how the cultural perspective of heaven and hell has radically shifted over the past 50 years. One particular shift emerged with the death of Princess Diana in the 1990's. Although there is no record that Princess Diana professed Jesus Christ, it is certainly difficult to imagine that someone so highly admired across the globe could spend eternity in hell. Other adored celebrities such as Michael Jackson or Steve Jobs have only added to this sentiment that surely all "good" people go to heaven. 

Further misconceptions about heaven emerge as myths about guardian angels, spirits, and our relatives "looking down on us," take root. Our conversation with Dr. Ron Rhodes (Reasoning from the Scriptures Ministries) While the thought of personal guardian angels and family spirits may be comforting in a time of pain, there is no biblical basis for these beliefs. Yes, there are angels who are sent to protect God's people (read about Michael in Dan 12), but Satan would love to twist the truth about angels and divert our attention from the Creator to the created. If you are looking for a guardian angel, you will not be looking for God. If you trust scripture's beautiful representation of heaven as a place filled with the eternal worship of the one Holy God (Rev 4), how could you simultaneously believe that our past family members are primarily concerned with our well-being on earth? 

Growing up in the "Bible Belt," it is difficult to imagine an entire generation growing up without a proper concept of heaven and hell. The reality is, however, that there are thousands upon thousands of college students and young adults who have been white-washed of the truths found in scripture, believing that all it takes are "good deeds" to "make it to heaven." Others believe that God's grace and mercy will ultimately exceed His wrath, opening wide the doors to heaven for all. Cultural icons such as Oprah, and even some modern pastors preach this message. As a result our urgency in sharing the gospel has been diluted. 

Spend some time in prayer today. Ask the Lord to reveal to you more fully the weightiness of heaven and hell. This is eternal life and death for our friends, family, and even church members that we are talking about. Next, pray for the boldness needed to proclaim God's full message of salvation. His grace is sufficient for all, and his immense love is not limited by His justice. It is because of his wrath that the depths of his love, displayed through the grace of salvation, is shown all the more glorious. 

Interview Recaps

• Dr. Rebecca Janney - The Cultural History of Heaven and Hell

• http://rebeccapricejanney.com/

• Martha Craig - The Kingdom of God

• http://www.amazon.com/The-Kingdom-God-Craig-Martha/dp/0982592132

• Paul Roberts - Are Heaven and Hell Real? 

• http://www.sebc.edu/contact/faculty-staff/bio-paul-roberts/

• Operation Christmas Child - http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/

• Dr. Rob Rhodes - The Truth about Angels and Demons

• http://www.ronrhodes.addr.com/

• Dr. Tony Cooper - Jimmy Hale Mission

• http://www.jimmiehalemission.com/

Key Scriptures

Matthew 7:13 - "You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many that choose that way."

Luke 12:5 - "But I'll tell you who to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he's the one to fear." 

Romans 8:38 - "And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from the love of God. Neither life nor death, angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries for tomorrow - not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love." 

Acts 1:11 - “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!”

Revelation 21:4 - "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

My Next Step
My closing thoughts are drawn from our New Day Cafe interview with Paul Roberts, Librarian of Southeastern Bible College. In speaking with Don Hawkins, Paul drew the entire discussion back to one foundational statement: "Do we believe that all of scripture is God's inherent word? 

If you do, then you must believe in the reality of both heaven and hell." 
God's word calls us to action. How will you respond to the truth of heaven and hell? Whose life is waiting in the gallows? Who will you meet in heaven that will thank you for sharing the gospel with them? I ask myself these questions now, and I encourage you to do the same.

Blessings,

Melissa Rogers
Moody Radio South

Debunking the Myths

November 5-9 - Debunking some Myths about the Church...

Our culture has transformed dramatically over the past few decades....our recent election is evidence of that itself (but we won't go that route today!). Unfortunately the the Body of Christ, the church, along with its values and institutions, has picked up a few of our culture's ideals along the way. I'm drawn to the book of Isaiah where God spoke through the prophet:

"Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." Isaiah 5:20 

Next Step Devotional Thought

Are there any ideas about the church, what the church believes, who the church is, and what God called the church to do that have been, let's say, twisted from the truth? Absolutely! Let's look at a few "myths" that you might have heard while waiting in the grocery aisle, watching the nightly news media, or even during the Sunday sermon! 

• The Church is not relevant to society anymore.
• All Christians are hypocrites. They have no ability to teach me what is "good."
• The Church is intolerant.
• The Church is judgemental and hateful towards those who have done things believed to be sin.
• The Church is stuck in the past and unwilling to grow with culture.
• The Church just wants my money.
• Tithing is not for today...it was just for the Old Testament.
• The Church is the same as the world (ex. divorce rate just as high)

How many of these have you heard? Better yet, how many of these myths have YOU believed? How do these thoughts shape your attitudes and understanding of how to participate in the glorious gift that is the Body of Christ? 

There is no way I could journey the depths of each of these myths individually (check out the interview recaps below and go to www.moodyradiosouth.fm to re-hear the audio!), so let's take a moment to discuss one particular myth I think we have ALL heard complained against the Church on countless occasions..."The Church if full of a bunch of hypocrites!"

Now what is a hypocrite exactly? Merriam-Webster defines a hypocrite as someone who "puts on a false appearance of virtue or religiosity" or as "a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs." Some dictionaries even use the term "Pharisee" as a synonym for hypocrite. Sound familiar? 

Now step back a second... it would be impossible for a hypocrite to exist without a standard of virtue to practice hypocrisy against. As the body of Christ, our standard is that of Jesus Christ. So, in a sense, it is impossible for us to NOT be hypocrites because none us us can fully live in such a way that we do not contradict any of God's commands. None of us can fulfill the law as Jesus did....only He was perfect. 

So how do we escape the accusation that we are all hypocrites? The truth is, we don't. However, what we can do is point back to the life-giving truth of Jesus Christ that through Him and Him alone we are washed clean and freed from the penalty of our sin. We can live in such a way that our humility and love for one another exhibits that we are all sinners saved by grace, seeking to live in accordance to God's will the best we possibly can through the power of the Holy Spirit within us! We are all hypocrites when it comes to living up to the standard of God's perfection. But what a privilege to know and serve a God who loves us so much that He accepts us despite our flaws and rebellion. 

We should strive to live in such a way that God is honored, but we must love others in the same way that He loved us. Yes, the church is full of a bunch of hypocrites, and there must always be room for one more!

Interview Recap

• Pastor Rick Taylor - The Church is No Longer Relevant
• http://www.sulphurspringsfwb.com/
• Dr. Bradley Wright - Christians are Hate-Filled Hypocrites and Other Lies You've Been Told
• http://www.brewright.com/hypocrites/index.html
• Jimmy Porter - Intolerance in the Church
• http://www.christianaction.com/site/article/dr_jimmy_porter
• Caitlin Jane, Music Artist - Celebrate Life/ The Church's Response to Abortion
• http://www.caitlinjanetunes.com/
• Dr. Conrad Baggott - Hypocrisy
• Pastor Thad Harless - They Just Want My Money
• Dr. Ed Stetzer - Inside the Stats about the Church
• http://www.edstetzer.com/
• Howard Dayton -  Tithing is Not for Today
• http://www.compass1.org/

Key Scriptures

Luke 11:42 - What sorrow awaits you Pharisees! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore justice and the love of God. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things.

Colossians 1:16 - For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

Colossians 3:14 - And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Isaiah 1:16-17 - Wash yourselves clean; Put away the evil of your doings from before my eyes. Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor, defend the fatherless, plead for the widow.

1 Corinthians 9:19-23 - Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

My Next Step

My closing thoughts: "LOVE"

John 13:35 - "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." 

Blessings,

Melissa Rogers

Moody Radio South 

If My People Pray...

"If MY people, who are called by MY name, will humble THEMSELVES and pray and seek my FACE and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will FORGIVE their sin and will HEAL their LAND. - 2 Chronicles 7:14

Next Step Devotion

The above verse is perhaps one of the most quoted, most preached, and most prayed scriptures throughout the entire Bible. It has permeated the Christian community throughout this election season for sure, and rightly so! But how often do we read/quote scripture repetitively, or dare I say, ignorantly, without really understanding what we are praying. God never calls us to something in His word without requiring ACTION from us. With this is mind I would say the above scripture is one of the most dangerous prayers to pray? Dangerous you say! Let me explain...

When you pray, God wants to work within YOU, change YOU, and reveal more of His character to YOU. When you pray for your heart to be aligned with God's heart, there is absolutely no possible result other than for you to stand up rocked to your core by the holiness and majesty of our Father. If you are missing out on this, perhaps you need to step back and take a good look at you prayer life (I'm preaching to myself here!). 

God is God!  There is nothing we can do, no argument convincing enough, no sacrifice great enough to sway our God. BUT when you pray, God does begin to align your life with His in such a way that we can become an agent for God's Kingdom on Earth as it is in heaven. It opens up the pipeline from heaven, giving God free reign to move mountains, calm seas, heal the multitudes. 

So back to 2 Chronicles 7:14. I say this is a dangerous prayer because it is impossible to pray in accordance with it without God speaking a direct challenge to your spirit, calling YOU to humble yourself, to pray, to seek, to repent... You can't fully engage your life in accordance with God's heart as expressed here without accepting the call yourself. We are so quick to say, "Yes! Our nation is so wicked! Lord turn our nation back to you!" yet we are unwilling, or perhaps blinded to the fact that repentance starts with ME. 

I upper-cased certain words in the above verse because I wanted to take a moment and highlight a few things about this scripture. 

MY - God is speaking to HIS people here. That means Christians, His children. It means ME! Not to unbelievers who are running from God's truth. We are His children washed white by the blood, yes. But that does not exempt us from the call to HUMBLE ourselves...

THEMSELVES - No one else can humble you. No one else can make the decision for you to lay down your life so that you might partake in the sacrifice and suffering of Christ. This is something you have to hash out, one on one with the Father. Ask Him to show you the areas that you have not fully humbled yourself before God and others...

FACE - There is a difference between seeking God's heart and seeking God's FACE. In seeking His face we are crying out for the Lord to reveal His glory. For eyes to be opened to his presence as opposed to just understanding His character (think Moses desiring to see God...). We are crying for a direct, visible, substantial move of God!

FORGIVE - God cannot operate within our lives if there is sin left without repentance. Forgiveness is mentioned 66 times in the New Testament is is required for our sacrifice to have weight before God (Matt 5:23) 

HEAL - For the word "heal" to be used, it implies that something is sick. The Israelite nation was sick, and our world is sick. BUT God came for the sick! (Mark 2:17) and His desire is to bring healing to us personally, to our nation, to our souls... 

So today, pray DANGEROUSLY. Go before the Father in heaven. Take responsibility for your sin and repent, receive forgiveness, intercede on behalf of our nation, and align your heart with the Father. Pray for his face to shine among us and His Kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven. More than anything, be ready to hear God's call straight to your heart, and be ready to obey. Seeing a movement of God on earth begins with you!

Interview Recap

• Dr. Bill Thrasher - The Journey to Victorious Praying 
• http://www.victoriouspraying.com/?page_id=1279
• Doug Clark - National Network of Youth Ministries - See You at the Pole
• http://www.nnym.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/home.myhome
• Matt Woodley - The Folly of Prayer
• http://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=3712
• Jeanette Hicks - Moms of Military Prayer Ministry
• http://www.momsofmilitary.com/
• Rod Wilkins - If My People Pray Movement
• Evangelist Scott Dawson - 2 Chronicles 7:14
• http://www.scottdawson.org/

Key Scriptures

Ephesians 6:18 - "And Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people."

Jeremiah 29:12-13 - "Then you will cal to me and come to pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

Matthew 26:41 - "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing by the flesh is weak." 

James 5:16 - "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for one another that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." 

My Next Step

I often feel like the disciples when Jesus was praying in the garden.... Jesus cries out to me, "Can't you just pray one hour with me!" However, just as Matthew 26:41 reveals, my flesh is so very weak. I know that the answer to all things is just one moment away when I engage God in prayer, yet I continually turn to other options before God. As the phrase goes, "When it's all said and done, there's more said than done!." I am so guilty of talking about needing to pray over something in my life, yet not setting aside the intentional time to actually pray!

If my desire is truly to be in God's presence...if that is what I am living for (to prepare for heaven!), then why am I not approaching the throne of grace every moment? But praise our great Father in heaven who does not shut the door to our prayers! His ear is forever turned towards His people (Psalm 116:2), His throne is always accessible to His children (Heb 4:16), and His desire is to bestow upon us His wisdom (James 1:5). 

If the enemy is condemning you with guilt over a lack of discipline in your prayer life, be encouraged! Our great God is always awaiting our voice, and He is always awaiting the opportunity to speak back. Today, begin anew a fresh passion to remain in conversation with your Daddy in heaven. 

Psalm 116:2 - "Because he turned His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live!"

Blessings,

Melissa Rogers

Moody Radio South