Tuesday, June 25, 2013

10 Ideas to Enhance Your Self Confidence

Striving to enhance our self confidence is on everybody's mind. It does not matter should you positively pursue this goal or else you unconsciously focusing on enhancing oneself esteem. The issue with this particular is you really do not know precisely what you would like to enhance. You are acting without effort on exterior signals.

Are you aware how you can enhance your self confidence? Most likely not. To really make it a bit simpler for you personally and also to achieve your primary goal faster I come up with 10 tips that you could utilize immediately.

1. Develop oneself-esteem. You have to take a listing. Give me an idea to enhance or change about how you communicate with others? Come up with just one change at any given time. Check you progress prior to making another change.

2. Celebrate your trip, not your destination. Learn how to always feel better about where you stand now, and also to exude self-confidence about anywhere you will probably find yourself tomorrow.

3. Set obvious goals on your own before every interaction. Know what you would like. Consider the way the people you'll be meeting will help you achieve individuals goals. Then decide how to overcome each individual accordingly. Apply this regularly and you'll watch a difference.

4. Be positive. Make the effort. Be decisive. Let your partner know precisely how they might assist you to. Positive people tent to become more effective within their career.

5. Treat each individual you meet as though they is really important. (You will be amazed the salt water evaporates.)

6. Provide a firm handshake look your partner straight within the eye. Practice these two. Your handshake ought to be perfect. Much less firm and never too loose. Train you to ultimately notice something like or find attractive within the person.

7. Listen! Listen! Listen! Train you to ultimately develop good listening abilities. Learn a method to recall the other person's title. If uncertain simply request for that title again two or three sentences in to the conversation.

9. Be more conscious of your partner rather than yourself. Are you currently reacting as to the might be happening in their existence? Don't remove not so good news. Place yourself in another person's footwear. Be caring.

10. Stay "within the moment." Don't psychologically stop your partner. Don't reload while they're speaking. This means you need to concentrate on the body else 100% throughout a discussion. Anything less is recognized as rude.

The next time you meet a new person consider these actions. Place a mental checkmark around the each one of the 10 tips and find out how good this individual obtained. Odds are the person obtained high should you tent to love her/him. Around the contraire the individual most likely obtained low if you do not appear for connecting.

The greater you practice the greater your chances can create an optimistic aura that is generally referred to as charisma. To step-up to become charming personality it requires not only these 10 tips.

Creating an optimistic aura may benefit you in each and every factor you need to do. You'll produce a warmer atmosphere with the family. You'll be more effective inside your career. Whilst attempting to meet someone from the opposite gender you will observe a positive change how people see you.

Regrettably a little article can't do justice around the wide spectrum of making an optimistic aura and creating a charming personality. You're going to get the entire picture and step-by-step explanations in Race Kale's new book "The Energy of Charisma".

Monday, June 24, 2013

Tent Review Golden Bear Kodiak 8 X 8 ft





Inside and outside overview of a 7 pound 5 ounce dome tent appropriate for vehicle camping or backpacking. This tent was rain examined, two times.

Sunday, June 23, 2013

How You Can Control Stress

Research has shown that the stress hormone cortisol reduces a
person's ability to retrieve information and memory. Even
worse, this same stress hormone is linked to progressive
shrinking of the hippocampus - an important memory center in the
temporal region. High levels of stress also promote depression,
which severely impairs memory and increases the risk for
dementia.

To reduce stress, try relaxation exercises. Sit quietly and
breathe deeply and slowly. Relax each part of your body,
starting with the top of your head and finishing with your toes.

Look for humor in tense situations and talk about your feelings
with family members, friends or a therapist, if necessary.

Try reducing stress and anxiety with fresh, natural scents. In
general they induce a calming state. In one recent study,
volunteers became extremely anxious when they were confined in
coffin-like tubes, but then calmed down when the tubes were
infused with the smells of green apple and cucumber. These
odors seem to have an impact on the limbic systems, the
emotional center of the brain.

If you anticipate a situation where you will feel anxious, try a
shampoo with green-apple flavored shampoo. Here are a few tips
that will lower stress in five minutes or less:
* Move around.
* Walk rapidly around your workplace.
* Take a quick walk around the block.
* Climb rapidly up and down a flight of stairs to really get the
heart pumping.
* Do 15 jumping jacks in place.
* Stretch while seated at your desk. Link your fingers under a
knee and draw it to your chest. Repeat with your other knee.

This stretches the legs and the lower back.

* Stretch your arms above your head, palms up and fingers
linked. Dangle hands at your sides, then raise right shoulder
to right ear, keeping the head vertical. Repeat this with the
left shoulder. Finally, flex and bend back the fingers of each
hand. Hand stretches are especially important if you use a
computer for long periods.

* Take 10 long deep breaths. Your belly should expand as you
inhale and contract as you exhale.

* Massage your eyes by placing your palms over them and apply
gentle pressure while spiraling your palms. Try the same
technique for your ears. Periodically, try to block out all
sight and sound for just a second or two. Researchers report
that this can be a refreshing experience from a psychological
standpoint.

* Experiment with aroma therapy. A drop of citrus essential oil
like lemon-lime or orange is refreshing for your office or home
and is not overbearing.

* Early morning sleep is really the most restful sleep you can
get. Men sent to bed at 2:15 a.m. and awakened at 6:15 a.m.
slept more soundly than ones sent to bed at 10:30 and awakened
at 2:30 a.m. So, if you are stressed and can get only four
hours of sleep, stay up as late as possible to get the most
benefit from your limited sleep. This does not replace a full
night's sleep. Resume normal sleep pattern as quickly as
possible.

Meditation is a favorite stress buster for some people. Getting
away from the everyday hassles of the world and turning your
thoughts inward is a great stress buster. Meditation helps you
see the objectivity in your own life and thoughts in a detached
manner. Meditation is proven to reduce anxiety, work related
stress. . .and blood pressure, too.
There are many meditation techniques, but here is a common one
that is simple:

* Sit quietly and comfortably in a place where you will not be
disturbed.

* Focus your attention on your breathing.

* Feel the breath as it comes into your nose. . . . and when it
goes out.

* Other thoughts will enter your mind. Just observe them and let
them go. Return your attention to your breath.
Start practicing meditation for five to 10 minutes a day,
gradually increasing it to 20 to 30 minutes. Keep a clock nearby
so you can keep track of the time but don't use an alarm that
might be jerk you back to full alertness too quickly.

Regular moderate exercise reverses much of the damage caused by
stress and can also improve immune system function, lower blood
pressure and improve your mood. The reason is because any
physical activity negates the fight-or-flight response and can
leave you feeling less tense, anxiety free and invigorated.
Aerobic exercise is an effective stress buster but you may be
more suited to relaxed walking.

Any exercise that suits you is fine. Just be sure to do it for
at least 20 minutes each day. Don't overdo it, however, because
more is not necessarily good for you.

Human beings have an inborn affinity for nature. The scientific
name for it is "biophilia." What that means is we enjoy things
having to do with nature. Having "natural" things around us is
psychologically beneficial. For example:

* Having an office with a view is not just prestigious. Studies
have shows that workers who have a view of grass and trees
exhibit less stress than who look at parking lots.

* Dentists who have an aquarium in their waiting room report
that their patients are less anxious.

* Eating lunch on a park bench will relax your body.

* To reduce stress try spending time in the garden and
your troubles will seem unimportant.

* Living in the city has its own stress factors. When it
comes to a vacation, try planning it in a totally different
environment like the mountains or seaside.

* Research studies show that people who have pets are
generally healthier and have better methods of coping with
stress. Consider obtaining a cat, dog or even a bird.

Humor is a great stress buster. Keeping a sense of humor and
learning not to take yourself so seriously definitely helps.
It's hard to remain stressed when you are laughing at yourself.
Try looking for the lighter side of every situation. Indulge
your taste for entertaining books and movies.
If you have a favorite cartoon or saying, cut it out and put it
on your bathroom mirror or refrigerator.
Try silly antics. Things that you would normally not even
consider like walking in the rain or feeding birds in the park.

Cultivate friendships. Having close ties with others can make
you feel warm inside. Having someone to talk to about your
problems makes the problems much easier to deal with.

Just having a friend helps reduce your blood pressure and
research has shown that those who have lots of friends tend to
have a lower level of cholesterol and strong immune systems.
Following a high carb, low protein diet can help with reducing
stress for a short period of time, but should not be undertaken
on a long term basis as the carbs represent just a short term
energy boost.

Other foods that fight stress are foods that are rich in
vitamins C and A like raw carrots peppers and broccoli. There's
a bonus as well, chewing crunchy foods helps to dissipate the
tension.

How about some natural therapies for stress? Here are a few:

* Lavender - Use the flowers. This is a beautiful herb
and is widely used. Many do not realize that it is an effective
treatment for headaches related to stress. Also good for
depression.

* St. Johns Wort - Taken internally, has a sedative and
pain reducing effect. Use in treatment of neuralgia, anxiety,
tension and similar problems.

* Vervain - Also known as Wild Hyssop. Will strengthen
the nervous system while easing depression and melancholia.
Good for fever and best for colds, and for menopausal
irritations.
Here are more tips to consider for reducing stress:

* This one is a "no-brainer" and we won't go into detail
here, but if you are a smoker - STOP!

* Try to avoid tight deadlines, keep your schedule looser.

* Ask for help instead of insisting on doing it all
yourself.

TAKE A STRESS TEST

The standard tests that doctors use to tell whether you are an
easily stressed "hot reactor" (and at greater risk for disease)
are pretty simple, so take your pick, says Frank Barry, M.D., a
family practice physician in Colorado Springs and author of Make
the Change for a Healthy Heart. For the first two tests, you'll
want to take a blood-pressure reading twice "once before the
test and once during the test" for comparison.

Test 1: Chill out. In Test 1, put your hand into a bucket of
cold water for one minute and have someone measure your blood
pressure right after you have done it. If it goes up into the
high range in response to physical stress, you are a "hot
reactor."

Test 2: Do some math. Test 2 is a little more cerebral. Start
with the number 100 and mentally subtract 7, then continue to
subtract 7 until you get to 2. In the midst of your figuring,
have your blood pressure taken. "There's no exercise, no threat
to your life, but a lot of people still feel mental stress and
their blood pressures shoot up," says Dr. Barry.

Test 3: Talk to yourself. You can also test yourself without
the shock of cold water or the mental anguish of math. As
yourself: "Are you working toward your own true goals or
someone else's? " If you are busy trying to keep up with the
Joneses, you're still in the rat race, even if you have retired.
You're much more likely to feel the effects of stress regardless
of whether you're a "hot reactor," says Dr. Barry.

CONFIDENCE AND SELF ESTEEM

The greatest challenges to your confidence come when you're
facing a situation that looks impossible. When this happens, you
must tap in to the unseen force of self-assurance so that you
can press beyond supposed limits. It's not a matter of what
things look like on the outside - the key is to recognize what
you have working on the inside.
Confidence is often the missing link to seeing yourself
accomplish the impossible. You just have to believe that you
have what it takes to be successful, and don't back down from
your capable stance.

You are in control of your thoughts. If you choose to believe
you have confidence - that you're energized - then you will be.
The next time you face a big challenge, take a deep breath and
fill your heart with the belief that you have unlimited energy
running through your veins. Build your confidence by reflecting
on those things you've already accomplished. If you did it once,
you can certainly do it again.

Today, receive the confidence you deserve - and you'll find that
you always had it within you.

Don't confuse self-esteem with arrogance: Arrogance is an over
evaluation of your worth, while self-esteem is a healthy opinion
of yourself - it's valuing yourself to the point that you don't
allow other people or negative situations and circumstance to
influence the way you feel about yourself. Until you value
yourself, you won't value anything, and other people won't value
you either. After all, your relationship with yourself is the
most important one you'll ever have.

When you're filled with self-doubt, give yourself a little pep
talk. Repeat

" [Your name], you are great! You are a unique individual, a new
kind of person the world has never known. You were born to do
well. You were born to succeed. You were born to bless the lives
of others. You were born to be great, and you have what it takes
to be great. You are enthusiastic, optimistic, and a change-
embracer. You are a giver, rather than a taker. You are
organized. You are a hard worker. You are happy. You are a
master over yourself, you are a leader. You are a big thinker.
As blessed as you are with all these talents, there isn't one
thing in the world you can't do. You will never fail. [Your
name], go out and make today an 'attitude is everything' day!"
By making this profession every day, you'll experience an
awesome self-esteem boost! Remember, you are priceless - your
past is history, and your future is now!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Let's review some of what you have learned about stress. Steel
will snap from it and a pressure cooker will blow its lid.

Stress, pressure, tension is a fact of everyday life for most of
us.

Remember that it puts you at risk for heart attack, stroke,
insomnia, backache, headache, irritable bowel syndrome, sports
injuries and infertility.

Stress can trigger serious illness like Graves' and
fibromyalgia. Stress even makes us more susceptible to the
common cold.

With your health at stake, it is essential to use some of the
methods we have discussed. Also, it's important that you
remember that stress is a physiological response. It isn't all
in your head! You owe it to yourself to take the time to use
the stress-reducing techniques on a daily basis.

We've already given you a great selection, but we want to make
certain that you have a wide range of coping skills to use at
home, work and other places. So here are an additional 12 keys
to stress reduction to help you open the door to a more relaxing
life. They contain dozens of additional helpful hints. Choose
those best suited for you.

Breathe deeply. Relax your muscles, expanding your stomach and
chest. Exhale slowly. Repeat several times.

Follow your breath as it flows in and out. Do not try to
control it. This is a good way to relax in the midst of any
activity. This technique allows you to find a breathing pattern
that is natural and relaxing to you.
Use this yoga technique: Inhale slowly, counting to eight.
Exhale through your mouth, even more slowly, counting to
sixteen. Make a sighing sound as you exhale, and feel tension
dissolve. Repeat 10 times.

Exercise regularly. Aerobic exercise, such as walking and
swimming, produces brain chemicals that uplift your mood and
mental well-being. Exercise also improves sleep and gives you
time to think and focus on other things. Beware of compulsive
exercise, however.

Yoga is an age-old system for stretching and strengthening the
muscles. Take a class or learn at home with a good book or
video.

Neck and shoulder exercises are useful for the desk-bound and
arthritis sufferers.

Neck roll: Look to the right, then roll your head forward, as
if you are trying to touch your chin to your chest. Keep
rolling until you are looking over your left shoulder. Repeat
in the other direction.

Shoulder lift: Relieve tension in the neck by lifting the
shoulders toward the ears, then dropping them as low as they
will go. Repeat 10 times.
Eat healthy foods. You should never skip meals. Take time out
for lunch no matter how busy you are.

Carry nutritious snacks to the office, or even the shopping
mall. A nutritionally balanced diet is important. For example,
researchers have found that even small deficiencies of thiamin,
a B-complex vitamin, can cause anxiety symptoms. Pantothenic
acid, another B-complex vitamin, is critical during times of
stress.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and large amounts of sweets, which can
aggravate symptoms of stress.

Don't let others get you down. Choose positive friends who are
not worriers. Friends who constantly put you down or talk
gloomily about life will increase your anxiety.
Ask a good friend to help you talk out a problem and get it off
your chest. A long-distance call to an old pal can be great
therapy.

Forgive others instead of holding grudges. Relax your standards
- for yourself and others. Perfectionism is not the way to
happiness. Become more flexible.

Communicate clearly with your co-workers and boss. Ask
questions. Repeat instructions that you are given. Clarifying
directions at the start of a project can save hours later
straightening out misunderstandings.

Be truthful with others. Lies and deception lead to stress that
always takes it toll.

Be optimistic. Count your blessings, especially when everything
seems to go wrong. Believe that most people are doing the best
that they can.

Don't blow problems out of proportion. Live by a philosophy of
life that whittles problems down to size. The maxim, "Live one
day at a time," has helped millions.

Plan your time wisely. And realistically. For example, don't
schedule back-to-back meetings with tight travel time. Remember
to leave room for unanticipated events " both negative and
positive. Be flexible about rearranging your agenda.

Get up 15 minutes early in the morning. Allow an extra 15
minutes to get to all appointments.

Avoid procrastination. Whatever needs doing, do it now.
Schedule unpleasant tasks early, so that you won't have to worry
about them for the rest of the day.
Keep an appointment book. Don't rely on your memory.
Do one thing at a time. Focus your attention on the person
talking to you or the job at hand, instead of worrying about
other things. This also reduces mistakes --- which lead to
more anxiety.

Be prepared to wait. Carry a book to read in case of delays.
Say "no" to requests that stretch you to the limits.

Delegate. You don't have to do it all yourself. Break a job
into separate tasks and assign them to people with the
appropriate skills. Then leave them alone to do their work.
Prevent problems before they occur. This takes some planning.

If you are flying to another city for an important meeting,
carry your presentation materials and dress suit on board the
plane. Baggage does get lost.

Buy gas for the car before the tank is empty. Get regular oil
changes and checkups.
Keep food staples on hand so you can fix a fast meal without
going to the store.

Keep food, toilet paper and toiletries on hand so you never run
out. The same goes for postage stamps, paper and envelopes.
Keep duplicate keys for home, car and office in secure
locations.

Retreat to recharge your spirit. Schedule private time every
day. You deserve it. Unplug the telephone and enjoy a quiet
evening alone or with your family, or even 15 uninterrupted
minutes in the shower or bathtub.

You may want to spend a few minutes writing your feelings out in
a journal. It can help you find a new perspective and relieve
hidden conflicts.

Here are more spirit rechargers:

Wear earplugs for instant peace anytime, anyplace.
Learn a meditation technique. Two methods: Observe your
thoughts as they pass through your mind. Or, repeat a word or
phrase with an uplifting meaning.

Practice progressive relaxation for 20 minutes twice a day to
relive high blood pressure and other physiological responses to
stress. Tighten and release each muscle group in turn, starting
with the soles of the feet and slowly working up to the scalp.
Plan a weekend activity that is a change of pace. If your week
is heavily scheduled, relax and enjoy noncompetitive activities.
If you are never able to finish anything during the week, choose
a project that you can complete in a few hours on Saturday or
Sunday.

Take time out for a diversion in the middle of your workday.

When the pressures of completing a project are too great, your
productivity can drop. Take a walk or stop for lunch.
Savor life's little delights. Give yourself some physical
pleasure to help your stress slip away.

Treat yourself to a professional massage, or trade massages with
a loved one.

Give yourself permission to enjoy a movie, watch a sports event,
listen to music or read a book.
Savor a soothing cup of chamomile herb tea with a dollop of
honey. Chamomile has long been used to relieve nervous tension.

Plan a day of beauty with a friend. Do each other's hair, or
paint your nails and chat.

Create a simple steam facial at home by boiling water. Remove
the pan from the stove. Cover your head with a large towel so
that it creates a tent over the pot. Steam your face for five
or 10 minutes. Add aromatic herbs to the water for a sensual
touch.

Focus completely on any of the senses " hearing, seeing, eating
or body movements " for a few minutes. Even washing your hands
can become a sensual experience.

Use visualization and affirmation techniques. You can inoculate
yourself against a situation you fear by going over the event in
your mind. Imagine the scene in vivid detail and picture the
best possible outcome.

You can also shrink an imagined fear down to size by picturing
the worst possible results. Imagine describing this worst case
to your best friend the next day and the sympathy you receive.
Imagine telling a group of friends the next month, who share
their similar experiences. Finally, imagine joking about your
unpleasant experience with a complete stranger a year later. If
you carry this exercise through to the end, your stress will
become something to laugh about.

Replace negative self-talk with affirmations. The chatterbox in
your mind is filled with gloom: You're too fat. . . you're too
old. . .you'll never amount to anything. Like the little engine
that could, nourish your mind with a constant stream of "I know
I can."

Get enough sleep. Determine how much sleep you require for
optimum performance. Sleep deprivation aggravates the body's
responses to stress. Consider setting an alarm clock to remind
yourself that it is time to go to bed.

Strive for your dreams. Plan ahead to meet your most cherished
goals in life.

Time management experts emphasize the importance of writing down
your important goals.

Break big projects down into a series of small steps that you
can work on every day. Want to change jobs? Make one phone
call contact today. Is writing a book your dream? Commit to
writing one page a day.

Knowing that you are striving toward your dreams relieves
frustrations that mount when you feel stuck in a rut of endless
responsibilities that seem to lead nowhere.

Even if you only use these last 12 keys to stress relief, you
can become a happier, healthier person, a more efficient worker
and a better friend to others. Keep a notebook as new ideas
come to you through your reading and your own creativity. The
most important key is your decision to take time for yourself
and to simplify your life whenever possible.

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Planning for a Large Group Have a picnic

If the have a picnic has been planned with a group, come with an in advance knowning that the only real products to become purchased or taken care of should be decided on through the entire group. It's the nice, although not necessary, products that may break your budget and cause hard feelings. If there's money remaining, a couple of extra products could be added.

What's your financial allowance? Does the organization, chapel or club have money put aside for that have a picnic? Would be the participants likely to pay? If it's the second you have to choose the price of food, drinks and products for example rental costs, plates, beverage containers and items before you begin registering people. Payment ought to be made during the time of bookings.

How would you like to handle no-shows? If you don't intend on giving reimbursement, let them know on register materials. You need to have the ability to give refunds to individuals who let you know they need to cancel before your meals are purchased. When the cancellation is definitely an emergency, my suggestion is always to refund the cash. Whoever you hire, make certain you've got a refund guarantee and everybody is aware of it.

Select the date, location and duration of the have a picnic. Reserve the place if you're getting the big event inside a public place like a park. If the spot where you chose doesn't have a pet shelter consider buying or leasing a canopy tent just in case of inclement weather. If have a picnic tables aren't available you'll have to borrow or rent them and request delivery and get following the event.

If this sounds like a yearly event, like a company, chapel or club have a picnic, you possess an approximate concept of the number of people usually attend so that you can start planning the kind of have a picnic gear and food you'll need. The business could have a lot of what's needed.

Whether a yearly, or even the to begin what will be a yearly event, start your register sheet early, or maybe the participants are dispersed across the nation, distribute e-mails or publish cards using the title, address, telephone number and e-mail of the individual responsible for bookings. It will likely be that persons responsibility to make contact with individuals who haven't responded one month just before the big event.

It's good to organize for 5 to 10 extra people as many people is a no show yet others, whose schedule all of a sudden becomes free, can have up. If there's remaining food, provide collect containers so it won't be wasted.

Even when volunteers are prepared to make food for that public the prudent and best factor to complete is order food from the place which has an approved kitchen for planning food.

However, in case your group can access a kitchen approved for public serving and you need to ready your own food make certain you've enough volunteers to buy the elements and make preparations them. Follow all heath rules for planning food including hands washing, hair and hands covers, proper food handling and storage. This isn't the area for cutting corners.

If you are planning with professional food preparers, think about the deli department of the local supermarket. There is a number of preparing salads, primary dishes and desserts and can help you figure out how much food you'll need per person. They might even provide the food to your website. Otherwise, you need to arrange for the meals to become acquired and hang on the serving table.

Based upon age and mobility from the group, have equipment readily available for popular games for example softball, volleyball, Frisbee and equine footwear in addition to children's games. Have games available for those who cannot or don't want to sign up in additional strenuous activity.

Do not over plan is bigger of the volunteer group or budget. Every volunteer must have job. For those who have more jobs than volunteers request for additional help or simplify your plans. Remember, this can be a have a picnic, not really a formal ball. Picnics are meant to be fun for everyone.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

12 Questions Everybody Ought To Know How to reply to

You've probably heard the spiel and most likely even taken the category-the one which demonstrates how to like magic pack 3-days price of food right into a milk carton which will become the perfect most valued possession in case of an urgent situation. Flipping in the news you may also observe how that little carton might take the advantage from tragedies like severe weather and earthquakes occurring all over the world.

But could it be really just as easy as stockpiling non-perishable food inside a milk carton, or purchasing a bucket-o'-readiness in a store to make certain everything is going to be all better when disaster strikes?

Certainly the above mentioned are positive steps, but when you'd like to learn where you stand around the emergency readiness scale, begin by responding to the next questions:

1.In the event of the emergency are you aware what to do and who, exactly, should setup a meeting there?

2.If you're not able to speak by telephone, how (or where) are you going to communicate messages?

3.Have you got a 72-hour package?

4.Will the package include any comfort meals or meals you really enjoy eating?

5.Have you got a 72-hour water supply (recommended amount is really a gallon each day per person)?

6.Does your package include clothes for those seasons or would you rotate the garments seasonally?

7.Does your 72-hour package incorporate a Emergency first aid kit?

8.For any medicines and have any allergic reactions, are dosages of individuals medications incorporated?

9.Are the kits and water readily available and convenient to carry?

10.Perhaps you have saved alternate shelter within an readily available location (tents, sleeping-bags, etc.)?

11.For those who have a dog, could it be incorporated inside your readiness plan and it is its food incorporated inside your package? (Hint: experts are actually recommending that you simply evacuate together with your pets understanding that pets won't be permitted in human animal shelters.)

12.Are you able to ready your food without the use of a modern stove or oven?

Having the ability to answer the above mentioned questions is essential to retaining some kind of confidence should tragedy occur. Granted, they are difficult inquiries to reflect on, but they're strengthening once clarified.

Let us say tomorrow at 1:00 within the mid-day as the children are in class and grown ups are in work, a fireplaceOrton/tornado/ earthquake strikes. Going house is no option, everybody is told to remain either where they're or evacuate.

Where do you turn? Exactly what does your loved ones do and just how would you reunite?

Lots of people, especially parents, can be put off by talking about subjects such as this for anxiety about traumatizing their kids. They imagine talking about in somber tones exactly what the children must do if mother and father are crushed with a falling ceiling or labeled with a stray energy line.

Not essential.

Needless to say including children, allow it to be fun! Discuss locations for meeting places. Allow them to choose emergency foods and exercise which makes them! Bring them to some thrift store to purchase snappy emergency clothes they'll anticipate putting on should their closet be taken away to another county.

But involve those you like while planning. Make certain everybody can answer the 12 questions in the above list. You will not be sorry!

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

30 Methods to Display Art and Photos

It's so easy these days to simply grab a camera or cell phone and snap a picture of whatever catches your eye. You may have thousands of photos just lying around. And that doesn't count all of your other artwork like paintings and prints. So what is a person to do with all of these treasures that could never be parted with? There are many creative ways to hang and display art, and this article is full of such ideas. It will be hard to pick just a few!

The general rule of thumb for hanging objects on the wall is to hang them at eye level. They will simply be more pleasing to look at if you don't have to look way up or down to see them. If you are hanging pieces in a group, think of all of them as one big picture. In these cases it may be easier to cut out scraps of paper the same size as your art and position them on the floor before actually going for the hammer. (Incidentally, odd numbered groupings always look the best.) Another important consideration is size - make sure the scale of your art matches the size of the wall and furniture. Lastly you will want to consider lighting. While objects and pictures do not need to be spotlighted, often times the art will be even more appealing if you focus a beam of light on it. Now that we have the basics of hanging art pieces we can talk about ways to arrange them. Here are some ideas:

Ways to Arrange Your Art on the Wall:

1. Hang several pictures in a row, either horizontally or vertically. You could have just three or as many as you need to fill up your wall. It's a good way to keep your eyes moving around the room, too.

2. You can also offset them. Take two or more pictures and hang one. Then step the other one down by a few inches. It is sort of like hanging them on a diagonal.

3. Place four similarly shaped objects in a square to create a box shape. If you have six or more you could always do a rectangle.

4. Try placing art in a collage on your wall. Find several different objects such as paintings, photos, and architectural art and mix them up in a pleasing way. Keep them fairly close together and remember the rule of three.

5. Hang photos above a staircase. Echo the shape of your stairs by staggering the items up the wall like a set of steps.

6. Arrange your art in themes. If you have a bunch of botanicals, group them all together instead of placing them separately in different parts of your home.

Ways to Hang and Frame Your Art:

7. Frame your ordinary pictures in a unique way. For example, you could use silk flowers or evergreen garland to surround the piece. Simply glue them to the existing frame and hang.

8. Hang photos or pictures from ribbon or wire. You could even hang multiples together the same way by hanging a rod on the wall and stringing the photos from it on ribbon.

9. Arrange art around a doorway or window. Start at the bottom and go up one side, over the top, and down the other. The pieces should be small and not too busy if you do this.

10. Group pictures together in a collage or one of the other suggested shapes. Then take a piece of molding and build a frame big enough to surround the whole group and hang it on the wall around the pieces. Or you could just use paint and create a faux frame on the wall.

11. Do you have a landscape picture of the beach or countryside? Consider buying some inexpensive plastic shutters and putting them on either side of the item for a window effect.

Ways to Arrange Artwork on Furniture:

12. Look through every room in your house and see where you might be able to sit some pictures. Tops of cabinets and dressers work well, as do desks, the top of your TV, or even near the jacuzzi in the master bathroom.

13. Do you have a space between your kitchen cabinets and the ceiling? This is a perfect spot to display some small art.

14. Got a fireplace? Try putting some photos or paintings on the mantle - don't hang them above, just sit them on top. Enhance the photo with a couple of well-chosen accessories.

15. If you have a curio cabinet that is not really being used for curios, you can always put art inside instead.

16. Do you own a piano? The top of an upright, or even a grand piano, is a great place for art items.

17. If your piece of art is relatively large, try sitting it on the floor. Lean it against a wall out of the way of kids, pets, and heavy traffic and watch the smiles you are sure to get.

18. Hang up a shelf, set your pictures on top and lean them against the wall. It is a nice change from hanging them by a nail.

19. If your décor will allow, put up some chair rail picture molding. Like regular chair rails, this is installed at around three feet from the ground and is basically a very small shelf that circles your room. Lean art and photos up against the wall and let your treasures surround you.

20. If you are simply looking for a unique way to display your photos on a table, try a vignette. For example, gather three portrait photos, a couple of your favorite landscape paintings, a tall candlestick and some greenery and arrange them on the tabletop. It will make them seem more important if you group the items together.

Unique Places to Display Art:

21. Hang three or four large pictures in a square or rectangle above your bed for an instant and unique headboard.

22. If the artwork is weather-resistant or can be made to withstand the elements, try hanging a piece or two outside. The front door makes a bold statement when adorned with a favorite piece of art.

23. Do you have one of those bath and shower combos that don't quite reach to the ceiling? If you have a picture that can withstand the steam and heat of the shower (behind glass or enclosed in a metal frame for example), hang it in this blank area to add interest.

24. Another idea for those heat and steam resistant pieces is to hang them above the stove as a backsplash. Just be sure you can wipe them clean.

25. If you have one of those big sterile bathroom mirrors you can always hang a photo in front of it to make it more appealing. Take a piece that will match the décor in your bath, find a complementary ribbon, and hang it in the center of the mirror (from the wall above). This will add interest while still leaving plenty of mirror to use.

Things to Make That Will Display Your Photos:

26. Take three large pieces of wood, hinge them together accordion style, cover them with fabric, and use them as a room divider screen. Hang photos, pictures and all kinds of other art on your "new wall".

27. Using the same idea, construct a small screen for in front of your fireplace. It is a great spot to hang seasonal art for the summer when the fireplace is not in use. Just be careful to use flame retardant materials near working fireplaces.

28. Create a coffee table to display your photos. Purchase a table that fits with your décor, or use the one you already have, and get a piece of glass cut to the size of the table top. Arrange your photos on the table, then lay the glass on top for a unique, useful and waterproof art gallery.

29. If you have a picture or painting that is around 16 by 20 inches, make it into a side table. Attach the art to a piece of wood cut to the same size, then add legs you can buy at any home improvement store. Paint if you wish. Make sure you have the top covered in glass or Plexiglas, and you have an instant side table.

30. Create a shelf out of art. Take a piece of art or a special photo and get a flat frame to put it in. Nail a small piece of wood that is the same width as the frame and a couple of inches deep to the bottom. Paint it the same color as the frame, hang the photo on your wall, and you are ready to accessorize with a small bud vase, miniature collectables, or even spices in the kitchen.

Monday, June 17, 2013

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Sunday, June 16, 2013

Permethrin - A Non-Toxic Tick Repellent That Actually Works

Within the Northeast US, you will find two types of ticks.

Wood ticks are large even though annoying, don't cause illness. Deer ticks, barely visible towards the human eye alone, were brought to the Northeast U . s . States 3 decades ago and carry Lyme disease. These microscopic burglars have influenced the outside experience almost around sprawl.

Basically were built with a nickel for everyone who explained they are now limiting their outside activities to winter to prevent ticks, I'd be considered a billionaire.

I do not leave the house without my pre-trek preparation, including making myself lethal to ticks. So what's my secret?

An offshoot of crushed dried Daisy Chrysanthemum flowers. The insecticidal qualities of those plants happen to be recognized because the 1700s:

Permethrin. It's labored for me personally during the last many years. I particularly mean the pump or spray application for fiber, not really a facial cream or cream.

Permethrin is really a chemically synthesized derivative of crushed dried Daisy Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium, more generally referred to as Pyrethrum) flowers.

It will come in sporting-goods and camping supply stores. The merchandise obtainable in NY works well for 2-days, but you will find items available on the market that last for approximately six days.

Here's what I actually do:

* Inside a well-ventilated area, apply permethrin to any or all clothing, headgear, footwear, mitts

* Pay special focus on collars, armpit, waist, knee, ankle regions of clothes

* Apply permethrin to backpack, especially arm straps, tent, sleeping bag, stuff sacks

* Let products dry before packing up

Exactly why is Permethrin diverse from DEET? Permethrin stuns or kills bugs that are exposed to it. DEET repels bugs by obstructing the receptors with an insect's antennae that really help it find its host. Once permethrin has dried around the clothing, it's guaranteed so tightly towards the materials that any possibility of absorption with the skin is minimal.

Is Permethrin safe for kids and pets? When using the pump or spray, be extra careful to become from streams, ponds, or pet consuming dishes. Permethrin is toxic to seafood, but is not proven to become toxic to wild birds. Although you will find permethrin oral sprays particularly offered to be used on dogs, these items will not be utilized on felines. Due to their grooming habits and slow metabolic process of permethrin, felines tend to be weaker to toxicity from permethrin. Once permethrin has dried on any fabric, it's no more toxic.

Let's say permethrin will get on the skin? I typically clean my hands after using permethrin. Everything I've read signifies that it's poorly absorbed through the skin and inactivated through the skin and liver and passed. I've got a good reputation for acute skin allergic reactions, and so i clean my hands.

Can permethrin harm the atmosphere? Some investigation signifies that permethrin is degraded by sunlight, readily digested by soil microbes, which once dried, it's so tightly certain to materials that it doesn't melt or leach in to the atmosphere.

The other preventive steps can character-enthusiasts take?

* Know your foe

Deer ticks cannot jump or fly, and don't drop previously mentioned onto a passing animal. Potential hosts (including all wild wild birds and animals, domestic creatures, and humans) acquire ticks only by direct connection with them. When a tick latches onto our skin it generally increases upward until it reaches a protected or creased area, frequently the rear of the knee, groin, navel, armpit, ears, or nape from the neck. After that it starts the entire process of placing its mouthparts in to the skin until it reaches the circulation.

* Plan in advance

If I will develop a debris shelter, I apply DEET (Diethyl-meta-toluamide) to my skin. I wouldn't put DEET on children under 3-years-old. If you're using DEET to children, a 30% maximum strength is suggested, but talk to your doctor. Possess a tick inspection plan along with a tick removal plan.

* Awareness is really a survival tool

Ticks that aren't attached don't transmit disease. Not every ticks carry infection, and when bitten, it requires 36-48 hrs for that tick to start transmitting the condition.

* Steer clear of the wrong moves

Touching a tick having a hot match, crushing, twisting, using oil jelly, alcohol or other irritant are ineffective and may increase the chance of infection.

* Practice the best moves

Have a tick removal package or a set of pointed precision, unrasped fine-pointed forceps whose tips align tightly when pressed firmly together. Practice holding the forceps, if you needed to, you can hold the tick through the mind or mouthparts exactly where they go into the skin and pull firmly, continuously and directly outward. Subdue the longing to seize the tick body, jerk or twist to get rid of it.

* Proper tick disposal

Alcohol does kill ticks. I did previously crush them, however i now either wrap them within an alcohol towlette and set that inside a container or insert them in a jar of alcohol basically locate them travelling on me.

* Safeguard the skin from sun and wind damage

Many people put on lengthy sleeve t shirts and pants, that is certainly effective. I like shorts and tank tops, and so i apply a minimum of a 30 SPF sun screen lotion. With this, DEET and whatever air borne pollens affix to my skin. I try to clean uncovered skin with colloidal oatmeal. If I am on the lengthy trek, I re-apply protection daily or after swimming. Otherwise, I clean my skin the moment I recieve home.

Within the summer time, I spray my furniture and drapes with permethrin, just just in case a tick finds its way inside. I haven't seen a tick on me in over 2 yrs and haven't been bitten with a tick in over 5 years. Maybe I am just lucky, but given generate income prefer to explore, I am confident these techniques work well.

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Saturday, June 15, 2013

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Friday, June 14, 2013

The Present Idea of Leadership within the African Chapel

Ted W. Engstrom and Edward R. Dayton in their book, "The Art of Management for Christian Leaders" said that leadership can be looked at from many different angels. They went on to state three of these angles from which leadership can be looked at. They are: i ) from the viewpoint of position, for e.g., leaders of companies or organizations; ii) from the viewpoint of action: leaders are known by the leadership acts they perform. Regardless of the different viewpoints from which one could examine leadership, it will always fall under three basic concepts.1

The three basic concepts of leadership identified in the contemporary world are as follows: the traditional concept - from one's social or ethnic background, the secular concept-from the view point of modern society in general and the biblical concept - from the teachings of scripture. In some cases, the traditional concept. However, in the African context, it is important to make the distinction. From the three concepts mentioned above, all other concepts of leadership have their roots. Therefore in discussing the existing concepts of leadership in the African church, these three concepts were examined. The format followed in this chapter is as follows: the first section was a discussion on the Biblical concept of leadership, the second a discussion on the secular concept of leadership and the third on the traditional concept of leadership. Following these discussions, the existing concept of leadership, within the African church was determined by comparing these concepts with actual practices in the church. From the comparison a conclusion is drawn.

The Biblical Concept of Leadership

The concept of leadership from the biblical perspective has been determined from the teaching of scriptures and from the examples of many who were called to leadership by God. In this section, the leadership teachings of Jesus and the life. The life he modeled as the ideal standard for Christian leaders will be examined. Following that, leadership concepts in the Old Testament will be discussed generally, but also making specific references.

A. Leadership Teachings of Jesus

In his book, "The New Leaders: A Revolutionary Approach", Mytron Rush stated his purpose of writing as, "to help us rediscover the practices and principles of leadership thought as applied by Jesus", He said that Jesus Christ was not just content to have followers. By His teachings and practices, He redefined effective leadership as the leader reproducing himself on the followers.2 In the process of reproducing leader, Jesus revealed His basic concept of leadership as that of service. Gottfried Osei-Mensah agrees with Myron Rush when he said, "the model of leadership the scripture consistently command to the people of God is instead what we may call the servant-Ieader".3 Several passages of scripture can also be cited to support the fact that Jesus' concept of leadership was that of service. In Matthew 20:25-27, following a request for high position made by the mother of two of Jesus' disciples, Jesus made this statement: "Not so with you. Instead, whosoever wants to be great must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave." Also in Matthew 20:28, Jesus said, "The Son of man did not come to be served but to serve". Osei-Mensah observed that through His ministry, and especially in His relationship with His disciples, Jesus also consistently modeled this type of leadership. For example, when Jesus washed the disciples' feet, He clearly demonstrated this principle of humble service and show that it does not take away any dignity from the leader. It was this servant concept of leadership, which was epitomized in the life and ministry of Jesus that produced the first group of Christian leaders - the disciples of Jesus. This act of Jesus was also to show the disciples that true leadership is grounded in love, which must result in service.

B. Leadership teachings of Jesus' Disciples

Scripture shows that long after Jesus had gone, His disciples carried on His concept of leadership. The apostle Peter in I Peter 5:2-5 wrote to other Christian leaders: "Be servant of God's flock that are under your care, serving as overseers not because you must, but because you are willing. Clothe yourself with humility toward one another." In this statement of the apostle Peter, it can be seen that his concept of leadership is purely that of service. He did not only accept this concept as that of Jesus but saw it as the norm for Christian leaders. For this reason, he was instructing them to adopt the same concept of leadership. Also, the apostle Paul, in I Thessalonians 2:9 talked about the kind of leader he had been to the Thessalonians. He said he labored night and day among them and that his life and that of his colleagues were examples of holiness, justice and blamelessness before God. Paul's concept of leadership was exactly that of Jesus - service. The Thessalonians were not serving him, but rather he served them.

In spite of the fact that in the New Testament, leaders see themselves more as servants, yet leadership positions are also acknowledged. In his writing, Paul instructed both Timothy and Titus to appoint elders in the local churches. However, the New Testament focused on the act of service of the leader and not on the office the occupied.

C. Leadership Concept in The Old Testament

It can be observed from the Old Testament that all the leaders that God used were personally called to their respective offices. In addition, each one of them was given their specific ministry at the point they were chosen. This was probably an indication that God wanted them to focus on service rather than their positions. For example, in Exodus 3:1-10, when God called Moses, He gave him clear instruction as to what He wanted him to do. In verse 10, He says "... I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt". When Moses left Median for Egypt, his focus was never on his new position, but rather on the task he had to perform. Another example is that of Nehemiah. In his book, "Excellence in Leadership", John White made the following statement: "Thus the book of Nehemiah serves primarily to unfold for us part of God's on-going plan for His people. But always it is the man, his character and his leadership that holds my interest. I present these reflections with the hope that they will help Christians young and old who face leadership responsibilities".4 John White was not concerned about Nehemiah's post as governor, but rather on what he did. From the first chapter of the book of Nehemiah, Nehemiah had been concerned with serving and he never strayed from that focus throughout the account. Whenever leader adopts this concept of leadership, for example, in the case of Nehemiah the leader is able to accomplish his goal.

The Secular Concept of Leadership

As the name implies, the secular concept of leadership is generally used in non-religious organizations and institutions. The Bible makes reference to this concept of leadership and a number of authors who have discussed it, point out its advantages and disadvantages. The secular concepts of leadership will therefore be discussed from the biblical and secular point of view.

A. Biblical Perspective of The Secular Leadership Concept

In Matthew 20:25 Jesus said, "you know that the rulers of the gentiles lord it over them. And their high official exercise authority over them. Not so with you. In this portion of scripture, Jesus was making a contrast between the secular concept of leadership and that of the Biblical. The immediate context of the text mentioned above gives one a better picture of the secular concept of leadership from the biblical perspective. The mother of James and John (the sons of Zebedee) was asking Jesus for specific high positions for her sons in the kingdom of God. In secular leadership, the focus is on position and control. The higher the position a person finds himself, the greater the control and authority he has. Also Jesus showed through contrast that this kind of leadership does not focus on serving, but to be served.

There are also scriptural accounts in the Old Testament that portray the differences between secular and Biblical concepts of leadership. In I Samuel 8:4-6, the Israelites asked the Prophet Samuel to give them a king to rule over them and Samuel was displeased by the request. According to Deuteronomy 17:14-20, God had plans for the nation to have a king, but that king must be distinguished from those of the Gentiles. But when the people were asking for a king, they said that Samuel should appoint for them a king such as all the nations have. A close examination of the Deuteronomy passage mentioned above reveals characteristics of secular leadership. God in the Old Testament made a clear contrast between the leadership he approves of for his people Israel and that of Gentile nations. It was a contrast between the secular and the Biblical concepts of leadership. From the biblical standpoint the following are typical of secular concept of leadership: i) the amassing of wealth, lack of reverence for God and a sense of superiority to all.

The Bible did not only discussed the concept of secular leadership but also gave a vivid example of the devastating effect such leadership concept can result to. In 1 Kings 12:1-7, the Bible records the circumstances that led to the division of Israel. Joyce Peel observed, "Rehoboam sees royalty in terms of privilege and absolute power. He ignores the advice of older, experienced counselors and encouraged by his arrogant friends, he returns a harsh answer. The result is the cry, 'to your tents, O Israel" The enraged Israelites marched out of Rehoboam's" presence and set up Jeroboam as their king.5 In this observation, Joyce Peel has shown that it was Rehoboam's concept of leadership that resulted in the division of the nation. His concept was that of the kings of other nations, who used their power and position to force their subjects to serve them. This was really a practical demonstration of the secular concept of leadership.

B. The Secular Perspective of Secular Leadership Concept

Most authors discuss leadership concepts in terms of styles. This approach is however contrary to the Biblical concept which is not about styles but about basic principles. Engstrom and Dayton, in their book, "The Art of Management for Christian Leaders", discussed five leadership styles. These are as follows;

i) Bureaucratic
ii) Permissive
iii) Laissez-faire
iv) Participative and
v) Autocratic.6

These five leadership styles can be put into two groups:
i) Domineering leadership-Autocratic and Bureaucratic styles and
ii) Tolerant leadership-Permissive, Laissez-faire and Participative styles. The

first group has been the focus of secular leadership.

In explaining the secular concept of leadership, it is necessary to first give a description of the two leadership styles under the first group. In the autocratic style of leadership, the leader acts more like a dictator. He makes all decisions as to how things should be done and who will do them. He relies on his authority and sees himself as indispensable. The bureaucratic style of leadership is marked by continual reference to organization rules and regulations. Decisions are made by parliamentary procedures. These two leadership styles can be seen as foundational to the secular concepts of leadership, which is a show of power, prestige and position. This type of leadership is work-oriented and not people-oriented and is quite different from the biblical concept of leadership.

The Traditional Concept of Leadership

This concept of leadership is being examined from a sociological perspective. It is significant to the discussion of this paper because it is still strongly recognized in African societies. In African countries, the social and ethnic backgrounds of individuals do influence their whole perspective of life, which includes both the religious and the secular. This concept of leadership will be discussed from both the Biblical and Traditional perspectives looking at the social dimension.

A. The Biblical Perspective Of Traditional Concept Of Leadership

From the biblical records, one can have the spiritual dimension of traditional concept of leadership. The Bible makes specific references to Jewish traditions in Matthew chapter 15 and Mark chapter 7. In Matthew 15:14, the Pharisees and teachers of the law questioned Jesus because His disciples had broken the tradition of the elders. In response, Jesus asked them - "And why do you break the command of God?" There is a twist in Jesus' response to the Pharisees. He did not focus on the issue but on leadership and authority. These elders have equated their human commentary or interpretation of divine laws with divine revelation. Jesus recognized their leadership but questioned their authority. Their leadership, even though not acceptable was recognized. Unlike the western world, Africa still recognizes traditional leaders even though their authority may not be acknowledged by many. However, within their own sphere of operation, they are not only recognized as leaders but their authorities are also acknowledged. The Bible also acknowledged the facet of strong traditional leadership that had great influence on people.

B. The Social/Ethnic Perspective of Traditional Concept of Leadership

Magbaily Fyle made the following observation about how leaders were recognized in African societies or within an ethnic group. He said that a great hunter or a popular "moriman" (Quranic scholar) easily becomes a leader. As he further stated, warfare was the most important factor in recognizing a leader. One who had led people in a victorious battle has the right to lead.7 Also, F.K. Buah in his book, Ancient World mentioned that leaders were recognized on the basis of age and the fact that it can be passed down from one family member to another. F.K. Buah further showed how this indigenous concept of Traditional Leadership has been influenced by western concept over the years. Academic education has also become an important factor in Traditional leadership.8 However in this concept of leadership, the followers usually respect the leaders position and decisions.

The existing concept of leadership within the African Church

The existing concept of leadership within the African Church can be determined by comparing the three basic concepts of leadership with actual practices in the church. The comparison will be done in two segments: first, with respect to the leaders and secondly, with reference to their task or function.

A) Leadership within the African Church

In the African Church, there are laid down principles as to how leaders are chosen or acknowledged. For most churches it is by election. Such elections are usually preceded by nomination; which could be done before or during the elections. When the process of choosing or acknowledging leaders is by elections, the obvious question that arises is: 'who is eligible to stand?'. Formal education in many churches has become a criterion for leadership. In fact, many considered it to be the most important criterion. For example, elderly people in the main-line churches in Sierra Leone are seeking formal education, in the theological field so that they will be qualified to enter the pastorate. Many also are going through formal education by extension. In evangelical churches there are certain positions that one cannot hold without a university degree. On the other hand, many independent churches considered spirituality or charismatic gifting as the most important in the criteria for leadership. Many charismatic leaders, by virtue of the fact that they planted the church assumed the position of leader and acknowledge other leaders by their gifts. These leaders however do not subject themselves to election.

If however they do, it is certain that they would have ensured the safety of their position by some clause in the constitution. However in both main line and evangelical churches, individuals aspire to leadership because they are convinced that God has called them. Charismatic and evangelical churches can be very welcoming in acknowledging these leaders, if their leadership abilities are obvious. It should be pointed out that this way of acknowledging leaders have opened the church to dangers, As Oswald Sanders has observed, "in many cultures today where Christian leadership carries prestige and privilege, people aspire to leadership for reasons quite unworthy and self seeking.9 Though some who had said they have been called to leadership have proved unworthy, it is still worth noting that churches acknowledge leaders in response to their personal call. The aspect of call is still very strong in the Roman Catholic Church. Without a personal call, one cannot enter the priesthood.

Having discussed the present practices of recognizing leaders in the African Church, it is in place to see which of the concepts of leadership already discussed, the present practices fit into. In the first place, leaders who were acknowledged through election fit into the secular concept of leadership. This concept does not consider calling. It focuses more on qualification and bureaucracy. Second, recognizing leaders because of their charismatic gifts or leadership abilities portrays more of the traditional concept of leadership. Traditional leaders were recognized because of the special abilities or qualities they possess. They may continue to be leaders until someone with greater abilities comes around. Third, the Catholics and some other churches still consider calling to be the main criterion for leadership. This shows that in the African church, there is an aspect of the biblical concept as far as choosing or recognizing their leaders is concerned.

B) The Task or function of African Church Leaders.

To have the complete concept of leadership in the contemporary African church, one needs to examine both the leaders and their function or task. The concept of choosing leaders has just been examined. Now the concept of the task and function of leaders will be discussed.

Most church leaders consider their position more than their task or function. Many ended up doing more administrative than spiritual ministry. They are more involved in business meetings and projects, such as building and relief. For some ministry has been basically church activities or special programs. Thanksgiving services have become the order of the day. Evangelical and charismatic churches however, seem to give more time to the needs of their members. They do this through Bible Studies, preaching, teaching and special services, healing, breakthrough and deliverance, etc. But at times the leaders seem to burden the people with financial demands.

To some extent, members generally believe that their leaders must be involved in almost everything as long as it has something to do with the church. In this way the leaders feel that everything has to be under their personal control. This has resulted in power struggles in many churches because leaders do not want any competition.

To determine the leadership concept in the African church on the basis of the functions of the leader, one has to make comparisons with the three basic concepts already discussed. Present day church leaders function more as traditional leaders, who are in absolute control and tolerate no competition. They want the followers to recognize their position and always be subjected to them. Also they function as secular leaders who are task-oriented and not people-oriented. They are more concerned with the work to be done or goals to be achieved than with the needs of the people. However, some leaders function as servants to the people, as can be seen in the Biblical concept of leadership.

With reference to the function or task of the leaders, it can be seen that three basic concepts of leadership are evident. It is clear that traditional and secular concepts of leadership are gaining firmer grounds in the church in Africa. However, the church continues to hold on to the biblical concept in principle.

Conclusion

The procedure of the presentation was as follows: First, the biblical concept of leadership was discussed; second, the secular concept and third the traditional concept. Finally the leadership practices in the present day church were discussed and comparisons made with the three basic concepts to determine what concept is prevalent in present day African church. It was noted that the secular and traditional concepts are prevalent. The biblical concept, which should be the norm for the African church has little or no recognition in practice.

In the present day African church, formal education and spirituality have been seen as two different entities. The leadership concept of some churches has been influenced by formal education, which has been considered as pre-requisite for position within the church. The leadership concept of some other churches has been influenced by spirituality or charismatic gifts and the leaders function more like traditional leaders who do not tolerate competition.

However, the leadership needs both formal education and charismatic gifts, but the Church in Africa must return to the Biblical concept of leadership, which portrays leaders as the servant of the people, leaders must follow Jesus' principle and reproduce themselves in others. The African church can make use of the good aspects of secular and traditional concepts of leadership, but the Biblical concept must always be the norm for the Church.

END NOTES

1Ted W. Engstrom and Edward Dayton, The Art of Management for Christian

Leaders (Texas: Word Book Publishers, 1976), p. 23.

2Myron Rush, The New Leader: A Revolutionary Approach to Effective

Leadership (Illinois: Victor Books, 1971), p. 11.

3Gottfteid Osei-Mensah, Wanted: Servant Leader (Achimota: Afrcian Christian

Press, 1990), p. 8.

4John White, Excellence in Leadership: The Patterns of Nehemiah (Leicester:

Inter-Varsity Press, 1986), pp. 10-11.

5Joyce Peel, A Journey Through the Old Testament: The Story of God's
Relationship with Man, Woman and the World (Oxford: The Bible Reading Fellowship, 1993), p. 84.

6Ted W. Engstrom and Edward Dayton, The Art of Management for Christian

Leaders (Texas: Word Book Publishers, 1976), p. 30.

7Magbaily Fyle, The History of Sierra Leone (London: Evans Brothers, 1981),

p. 5.

8F.K. Buah, Ancient World (London: Macmillan Publishers, 1960), p. 79.

9Oswald Sanders, Spiritual Leadership (Chicago: Moody Press, 1994), p. 14.

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Personal Revival - A Bible Study

PERSONAL
REVIVAL...

THE ONLY ROAD TO
CORPORATE REVIVAL
A Bible Study by John Henderson

WHAT IS REVIVAL?

How often do we see "REVIVAL" banners stretched across the front of empty church buildings? Or see printed invitations to attend "Revival Meetings" at a special location only to find them packed with people who travel with that particular group?

Real Christians want desperately to experience a "Corporate Revival" within the Body of Christ as a whole, but few understand the personal preparation needed for a revival.

By definition, Webster Dictionary states that;
re-viv-al n 1. The act of reviving: the state of being revived, 2. REVITALIZATION. &
re-vive vb. 1. To return or restore to consciousness or life: become or make active again

2. To bring back into use, 3. To RENEW or RESTORE

Most of us have seen or heard about tent meetings and traveling revivals and televangelism. Most of these types of meetings and shows seem to be ego trips for the people conducting them. On rare occasions, a traveling ministry or TV evangelist will do some good in bringing some people into a personal relationship with a Living Savior, Christ. However and all too often, those conducting these meetings fail to consult with ministers and pastors in local churches and when the traveling "shows" move on, new converts are left to fend for them selves without serious follow-up or discipleship.

One of the reasons these traveling crusades or televangelistic ministries seem to exist is the failure of the local church to fulfill the biblical commandment to "Go and Teach..."

Matthew 28:18,19
18 "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"

All too often church members welcome the efforts of televangelists or "outside" preachers to come in, because their own evangelistic efforts are non-existent. Therefore, the real meaning of revival is lost because it means to revive, renew and restore. How can something be revived, renewed or restored if it was never alive in the first place!?

As harsh as this may sound, it is the truth more often than not. God is eager to manifest His reviving presence and power in this generation. But we, the local church that is made up of people not buildings, must take steps to prepare for the release of His fullness in our personal lives. We must allow God complete and unhindered access to our own lives and be revived, renewed and restored by PERSONAL REVIVAL before CORPORATE REVIVAL can happen.

PREPARING FOR PERSONAL REVIVAL

The questions and commentaries that follow are designed to reveal specific areas of our lives that must be addressed in preparation for personal revival. Our goal must be the PERSONAL /PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES in our own lives that will draw us closer in a Christ centered relationship to a Living and Loving God. Regardless of what people say, they are searching for truth and stability in spite of all the "Christian bashing" and legislated discrimination perpetrated by our government and the media.

We, as Christians, are or at least should be aware of the anti-Christian agenda as it is fulfilled at almost all levels of politics and media. There is a concerted effort to inject a humanist philosophy into all areas of thought--from the earliest levels of human development such as abortion on demand to the later stages of life in the forms of legislated euthanasia or the "right-to-die" proponents. Our God is the God of Life, not death. Any legislated interference with that truth nullifies the government's right to rule the people.

We are clearly in the last days. People of all walks of life are searching for stability. The humanist philosophy has infected our children with the attitude that there are no absolutes--that it is archaic to believe that there is a standard of living and that human beings are the highest form of life and that we have authority over the animal kingdom. It has become increasingly popular to consider some animals at various times as being more important than man. If women could give birth to spotted owls, dolphins or baby seals, their offspring would be safe. But, because their ability to give birth is limited to human babies, their offspring is expendable!

The following Steps of Action are intended to help in your personal revival. As you grow and mature in Christ, no doubt you will discover more. Remember, this is only the beginning. Our life in Christ and the discipline necessary to maintain that growth is forever constant and remember, if you ever feel far from God, it is you who moved away, not Him. He promises to stay by our side in our efforts to maintain a personal relationship with Him. Even if we backslide and turn our backs on Him, He is STILL THERE waiting with open arms to receive us back to Himself. After all, we are purchased with a great price. That price is His life and the currency of that purchase is His own blood that was spilt on the cross.

Steps of Action

1. PRAY THE PRAYER OF DAVID (PSALM 139: 23,24)
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: 24 And see if [there be any] wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

We, as Christians, must be willing to allow the Holy Spirit complete and unrestricted access to every area of our lives. The lives of our family and friends may depend on it.

2. BE HONEST (ROMANS 12:17)
17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

God has the ability to expose our dishonesty and those diligently seeking the truth can see through that dishonesty. It is, therefore, of critical importance to be honest--Not only before men and God, but with ourselves as well. The excuse of many who are searching for the truth and sidestepping Christianity is the hypocritical lives led by many who claim to be Children of God. If our lives can not demonstrate the reality of Christ, then we may be responsible for many lost souls.

3. AGREE WITH GOD (2 SAMUEL 12:13)
13 And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.

God will reveal the needs in our lives, including the need to CONFESS SIN and repent. As He does, we must be willing to make things right and forsake sin. Most often, He reveals areas that need attention through other people (not necessarily other Christians). It is critical to show others that our God is a loving and a living God who is willing to use them to achieve His purposes. Therefore, when someone tells us we are wrong, and they are correct, we MUST AGREE with them thus demonstrating God's love for them and us.REMEMBER: It is more important to be a living example of God's Plan than it is to ALWAYS be right!

4. PRAISE GOD FOR HIS CLEANSING AND FORGIVENESS.

(1 JOHN 1:5-10)

5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Many will neglect the free gift of salvation because they believe they have committed the "UNPARDONABLE SIN" and that they are not worthy to be a Christian. Simply, bid them Welcome to the club, and show them that No One is Worthy, that's why it's the free gift of a Loving and a Living God to ANYONE willing to receive it!

5. RENEW YOUR MIND AND REBUILD YOUR LIFE THROUGH MEDITATION ON THE WORD OF GOD, AND THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF ITS PRINCIPLES.

Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

It is God who gives us a new mind and creates in us a newness through the Holy Spirit. And, accordingly, we are then made new creatures in Christ. It is impossible to renew ourselves. That would mean depending on our own ability through a mind and a self that got us into trouble in the first place.

We can still do the same old things we use to do, but the Holy Spirit and Christ in our lives have replaced the excitement of sin with righteousness and holiness! They have given us a new purpose in life and that purpose is to please God!

In order to participate in a Corporate Revival, it is therefore necessary to allow Personal Revival to take place in our own lives as individuals. It is of critical importance to be and remain sensitive to God's direction in our personal lives. The method of revival is to be accountable for areas in our lives and to maintain fellowship with other believers in order to help us to be accountable. Fellowship is defined as Two or more Fellows rowing the boat in the same direction!

In an effort to assist in that accountable fellowship, the following questions and scriptures should be reviewed as a base for personal bible study with another believer. It is the Holy Spirit who prompts us to accountability and fellow believers who help us maintain that accountability. You may want to review them first in private to gauge your level of commitment to personal revival. Some believers have a tendency to "put on righteousness" in front of others rather that demonstrate genuine righteousness before a Holy and Righteous God.

REMEMBER: GOD KNOWS YOUR HEART AND MIND AND EVERYTHING THAT MAKES YOU TICK. YOU CAN'T FOOL GOD! THIS IS A SERIOUS PERSONAL STUDY, AND THE ONLY WAY TO ACCOMPLISH IT'S INTENDED PURPOSE IS TO TOSS YOUR EGO IN THE TRASH AND BE AN OPEN BOOK BEFORE GOD AND OTHER BELIEVERS.
Revival Study Guide
If there is not enough space for your comments, use another sheet of paper.

1. GENUINE SALVATION (II CORINTHIANS 5:17)
THEREFORE IF ANY MAN [BE] IN CHRIST, [HE IS] A NEW CREATURE: OLD THINGS ARE PASSED AWAY; BEHOLD, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME NEW.

a. Was there ever a time in my life that I genuinely repented of my sin? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Was there ever a time in my life that I placed all my trust in Jesus Christ alone to save me? YES [ ] NO [ ]
c. Was there ever a time in my life that I completely surrendered to Christ as the Master of my life? YES [ ] NO [ ]

2. GOD'S WORD (PSALM 119:97, 140)
97 O HOW LOVE I THY LAW! IT [IS] MY MEDITATION ALL THE DAY.
140 ¶THY WORD [IS] VERY PURE: THEREFORE THY SERVANT LOVETH IT.

a. Do I love to read and meditate on the Word of God? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Are my personal devotions consistent and meaningful? YES [ ] NO [ ]
c. Do I practically apply God's Word to my everyday life? YES [ ] NO [ ]

3. HUMILITY (ISAIAH 57:15)
FOR THUS SAITH THE HIGH AND LOFTY ONE THAT INHABITETH ETERNITY, WHOSE NAME [IS] HOLY; I DWELL IN THE HIGH AND HOLY [PLACE], WITH HIM ALSO [THAT IS] OF A CONTRITE AND HUMBLE SPIRIT, TO REVIVE THE SPIRIT OF THE HUMBLE, AND TO REVIVE THE HEART OF THE CONTRITE ONES.

a. Am I quick to recognize and agree with God in confession when I have sinned? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Am I quick to admit to others when I am wrong? YES [ ] NO [ ]
c. Do I rejoice when others are praised and recognized even when I am unnoticed?YES [ ] NO [ ]
d. Do I see others as more important than me? YES [ ] NO [ ]

4. OBEDIENCE (I SAMUEL 15:22 • HEBREWS 13:17)
AND SAMUEL SAID, HATH THE LORD [AS GREAT] DELIGHT IN BURNT OFFERINGS AND SACRIFICES, AS IN OBEYING THE VOICE OF THE LORD? BEHOLD, TO OBEY [IS] BETTER THAN SACRIFICE, [AND] TO HEARKEN THAN THE FAT OF RAMS.

OBEY THEM THAT HAVE THE RULE OVER YOU, AND SUBMIT YOURSELVES: FOR THEY WATCH FOR YOUR SOULS, AS THEY THAT MUST GIVE ACCOUNT, THAT THEY MAY DO IT WITH JOY, AND NOT WITH GRIEF: FOR THAT [IS] UNPROFITABLE FOR YOU.

a. Do I consistently obey when I know God is directing my life? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Do I obey the laws when I am alone as well as with someone else? YES [ ] NO [ ]

5. PURE HEART (I JOHN 1:9)
IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, HE IS FAITHFUL AND JUST TO FORGIVE US [OUR] SINS, AND TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS.

a. Do I confess my sin by name? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Do I keep "short sin accounts" with God (confess and forsake as He convicts)? YES [ ] NO [ ]
c. Am I willing to give up all sin for God? YES [ ] NO [ ]

6. CLEAR CONSCIENCE (ACTS 24:16)
AND HEREIN DO I EXERCISE MYSELF, TO HAVE ALWAYS A CONSCIENCE VOID OF OFFENSE TOWARD GOD, AND [TOWARD] MEN.

a. Do I consistently seek forgiveness from those I wrong or offend? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Is my conscience clear with every person, do I NOW need to ask forgiveness of anyone? YES [ ] NO [ ]

7. PRIORITIES (MATTHEW 6:33)
BUT SEEK YE FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD, AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS; AND ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED UNTO YOU.

a. Does my schedule reveal that God is first in my life? YES [ ] NO [ ]

b. Does my checkbook reveal that God is first in my life? YES [ ] NO [ ]

c. Next to my relationship to God, is my relationship to my family my highest priority? YES [ ] NO [ ]

8. VALUES (COLOSSIANS 3:12)
PUT ON THEREFORE, AS THE ELECT OF GOD, HOLY AND BELOVED, BOWELS OF MERCIES, KINDNESS, HUMBLENESS OF MIND, MEEKNESS, LONGSUFFERING;

a. Do I love what God loves and hate what God hates? YES [ ] NO [ ]

b. Do I value highly the things that please God (giving, sharing His Word etc.)? YES [ ] NO [ ]

c. Are my affections and goal fixed on eternal values? YES [ ] NO [ ]

9. SACRIFICE (PHILIPPIANS 3:7,8)
BUT WHAT THINGS WERE GAIN TO ME, THOSE I COUNTED LOSS FOR CHRIST.
YEA DOUBTLESS, AND I COUNT ALL THINGS [BUT] LOSS FOR THE EXCELLENCY OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST JESUS MY LORD: FOR WHOM I HAVE SUFFERED THE LOSS OF ALL THINGS, AND DO COUNT THEM [BUT] DUNG, THAT I MAY WIN CHRIST,

a. Am I willing to sacrifice everything necessary to see God move in my life and church? YES [ ] NO [ ]

b. Is my life genuinely characterized by that sacrificial willingness? YES [ ] NO [ ]

10. SPIRIT CONTROL (GALATIANS 5:22-25 • EPHESIANS 5:18-21)
BUT THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS LOVE, JOY, PEACE, LONGSUFFERING, GENTLENESS, GOODNESS, FAITH, MEEKNESS, TEMPERANCE: AGAINST SUCH THERE IS NO LAW. AND THEY THAT ARE CHRIST'S HAVE CRUCIFIED THE FLESH WITH THE AFFECTIONS AND LUSTS. IF WE LIVE IN THE SPIRIT, LET US ALSO WALK IN THE SPIRIT.
AND BE NOT DRUNK WITH WINE, WHEREIN IS EXCESS; BUT BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT; SPEAKING TO YOURSELVES IN PSALMS AND HYMNS AND SPIRITUAL SONGS, SINGING AND MAKING MELODY IN YOUR HEART TO THE LORD; GIVING THANKS ALWAYS FOR ALL THINGS UNTO GOD AND THE FATHER IN THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST; SUBMITTING YOURSELVES ONE TO ANOTHER IN THE FEAR OF GOD.

a. Am I allowing Jesus to be Lord of every area of my life? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Am I allowing the Holy Spirit access to my life daily? YES [ ] NO [ ]
c. Is there consistent evidence of the "fruit of the Spirit" being produced in my life? YES [ ] NO [ ]
11. "FIRST LOVE" (PHILIPPIANS 1:21,23)
FOR TO ME TO LIVE [IS] CHRIST, AND TO DIE [IS] GAIN.
BUT IF I LIVE IN THE FLESH, THIS [IS] THE FRUIT OF MY LABOUR:
YET WHAT I SHALL CHOOSE (ISN'T NECESSARILY WHAT I WANT).
FOR I AM IN A STRAIT BETWIXT TWO, HAVING A DESIRE TO DEPART,
AND TO BE WITH CHRIST; WHICH IS FAR BETTER:

a. Am I as mush in love with Jesus as I have ever been? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Am I thrilled with Jesus, filled with His Joy and Peace? YES [ ] NO [ ]
12. MOTIVES (MATTHEW 10:28 • ACTS 5:29)
AND FEAR NOT THEM WHICH KILL THE BODY, BUT ARE NOT ABLE TO KILL THE SOUL: BUT RATHER FEAR HIM WHICH IS ABLE TO DESTROY BOTH SOUL AND BODY IN HELL.
THEN PETER AND THE [OTHER] APOSTLES ANSWERED AND SAID, WE OUGHT TO OBEY GOD RATHER THAN MEN.

a.. Am I more concerned with what God thinks than what others think in my life? YES [ ] NO [ ] b. Would I pray, read my Bible, give and serve as much even if nobody but God noticed? YES [ ] NO [ ]
c. Am I more concerned with pleasing God than being accepted by man? YES [ ] NO [ ]

13. MORAL PURITY (EPHESIANS 5:3,4)
BUT FORNICATION, AND ALL UNCLEANNESS, OR COVETOUSNESS, LET IT NOT BE ONCE NAMED AMONG YOU, AS BECOMETH SAINTS;
NEITHER FILTHINESS, NOR FOOLISH TALKING, NOR JESTING, WHICH ARE NOT CONVENIENT: BUT RATHER GIVING OF THANKS.

a. Do I keep my mind free from those items that could stimulate lustful thoughts? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Are my conversations and behavior pure and above reproach? YES [ ] NO [ ]

14. FORGIVENESS (COLOSSIANS 3:12,13)
PUT ON THEREFORE, AS THE ELECT OF GOD, HOLY AND BELOVED, BOWELS OF MERCIES, KINDNESS, HUMBLENESS OF MIND, MEEKNESS, LONGSUFFERING;
FORBEARING ONE ANOTHER, AND FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, IF ANY MAN HAVE A QUARREL AGAINST ANY: EVEN AS CHRIST FORGAVE YOU, SO ALSO [DO] YE.

a. Do I seek to resolve conflicts in relationships as soon as possible? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Am I quick to forgive those who wrong me or hurt me? YES [ ] NO [ ]

15. SENSITIVITY (MATTHEW 5:23,24)
THEREFORE IF THOU BRING THY GIFT TO THE ALTAR, AND THERE REMEMBEREST THAT THY BROTHER HATH OUGHT AGAINST THEE;
LEAVE THERE THY GIFT BEFORE THE ALTAR, AND GO THY WAY; FIRST BE RECONCILED TO THY BROTHER, AND THEN COME AND OFFER THY GIFT.

a. Am I sensitive to the conviction and prompting of the Holy Spirit? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Am I quick to respond in humility and obedience when convicted? YES [ ] NO [ ]

16. EVANGELISM (LUKE 24:46,48 • ROMANS 9:23)
AND SAID UNTO THEM, THUS IT IS WRITTEN, AND THUS IT BEHOOVED CHRIST TO SUFFER, AND TO RISE FROM THE DEAD THE THIRD DAY:
AND THAT REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS SHOULD BE PREACHED IN HIS NAME AMONG ALL NATIONS, BEGINNING AT JERUSALEM.
AND YE ARE WITNESSES OF THESE THINGS.
AND THAT HE MIGHT MAKE KNOWN THE RICHES OF HIS GLORY ON THE VESSELS OF MERCY, WHICH HE HAD AFORE PREPARED UNTO GLORY,

a. Do I have a burden for lost souls? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Do I consistently witness for Christ? YES [ ] NO [ ]

17. PRAYER I 1TIMOTHY 2:1)
I EXHORT THEREFORE, THAT, FIRST OF ALL, SUPPLICATIONS, PRAYERS, INTERCESSIONS, [AND] GIVING OF THANKS, BE MADE FOR ALL MEN;

a. Am I faithful in praying for the needs of others? YES [ ] NO [ ]
b. Do I pray sincerely, specifically and faithfully for revival in my life, my church and our nation? YES [ ] NO [ ]

Summary:

While most of us have a genuine desire to serve a Living God, the work of achieving that goal is difficult. It is therefore important to remember that Jesus DID NOT LEAVE US ALONE when He ascended to the right hand of God. He gave us the COMFORTER, which is the HOLY SPIRIT!

Regardless of the ongoing "IN HOUSE DEBATE" concerning the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the only thing essential to our service to God is to know that the POWER TO BE WHAT GOD WANTS US TO BE IS PROVIDED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT!!!

One primary reason those outside the Body of Christ refuse to join us is the denominational bickering and division among so called "CHRISTIANS". Start to look for things we can agree on and share those things with the searchers of truth you encounter daily. Their eternal destiny depends on it!!!

If your answer to ANY of the questions is NO, turn to the scriptures indicated for help in that particular area. Remember that the Bible IS THE WORD OF GOD and is, therefore, sufficient for instruction and correction. If you are still having difficulty in a particular area addressed in this study, seek the counsel of a pastor and beware of FRIENDS whose intention may be good but whose counsel may be based on their personal opinion rather than the INSPIRED WORD OF GOD. Remember JOB'S WIFE & FRIENDS!!!

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

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