The Tech Preacher

The Tech Preacher, well not really, but as the Apostle Paul had tent making as his secular job, some say,  I,  in my world, am a tech guy.  I have been in computers since the 1980s.  Yes, PCs have been around for that long.  Computers and personal computers, were much larger & bigger.  AAH, the days of 8080 and Z80 processors, CPUs,  This is where I started.  I have definitely seen the evolution of the PC from those years.  I have not kept up with everything, there's so much to keep up with, it's volumes of new data.   But technology and preaching go hand in hand.  The bible in the book of the Revelation, talks about the Two Witnesses being seen by the whole world.  As a tech guy, I wondered how would the whole world see, but then and at first I thought, well it would be by satellite and but now, I know it will be by Internet, I-pod, cell phone, etc . . . .
Technology is a big part of promoting the Gospel of Christ.  I happen to believe, God allowed the advancement of technology which also, promotes the gospel. I, also believe God led Christopher Columbus, to find the new world.  Columbus could have read in the bible, years before 1492, about the roundness of the earth. (and that's another blog someday, remind me) But God led the way, and He leads the way in technology. He allows little leads and the engineers and scientists follow them to make that new technical products.  It's been that way for years.  God blesses man with knowledge.  HEY, it's mentioned in the bible, see Psalms & Proverbs, well the whole book.  And that knowledge is suppose to lead man to GOD, it should NOT turn man away.  Once again, man has messed it up. (see Garden of Eden)   BUT I BELIEVE IN HIM !! I BELIEVE GOD !!  And any him, anyone that comes to HIM, God,  will in no wise cast him out !!

For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that you should not perish,  God demonstrated his love toward us that while were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  God is not willing that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance and the knowledge of truth. WOW, I am so happy, this is good stuff, not me, not my words, but it's God's words.  :-)

Oops, I got alittle preachy, but it's a fire that's burning in me.  I must tell you about God and his dear son Jesus !!!  Hallelujah !!

Dear friend, God's speaking to you today through technology, He's calling you today, why don't you call on Him today.

God Bless you,

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

The Christmas Eve Bird

Hello everybody, I heard this story by Paul Harvey many years ago, PLEASE, TAKE TIME TO READ IT !!
 

The Man and the Birds
by Paul Harvey

The man to whom I’m going to introduce you was not a scrooge, he was a kind decent, mostly good man. Generous to his family, upright in his dealings with other men. But he just didn’t believe all that incarnation stuff which the churches proclaim at Christmas Time. It just didn’t make sense and he was too honest to pretend otherwise. He just couldn’t swallow the Jesus Story, about God coming to Earth as a man.

“I’m truly sorry to distress you,” he told his wife, “but I’m not going with you to church this Christmas Eve.” He said he’d feel like a hypocrite. That he’d much rather just stay at home, but that he would wait up for them. And so he stayed and they went to the midnight service.

Shortly after the family drove away in the car, snow began to fall. He went to the window to watch the flurries getting heavier and heavier and then went back to his fireside chair and began to read his newspaper. Minutes later he was startled by a thudding sound…Then another, and then another. Sort of a thump or a thud…At first he thought someone must be throwing snowballs against his living room window. But when he went to the front door to investigate he found a flock of birds huddled miserably in the snow. They’d been caught in the storm and, in a desperate search for shelter, had tried to fly through his large landscape window.

Well, he couldn’t let the poor creatures lie there and freeze, so he remembered the barn where his children stabled their pony. That would provide a warm shelter, if he could direct the birds to it.

Quickly he put on a coat, galoshes, tramped through the deepening snow to the barn. He opened the doors wide and turned on a light, but the birds did not come in. He figured food would entice them in. So he hurried back to the house, fetched bread crumbs, sprinkled them on the snow, making a trail to the yellow-lighted wide open doorway of the stable. But to his dismay, the birds ignored the bread crumbs, and continued to flap around helplessly in the snow. He tried catching them…He tried shooing them into the barn by walking around them waving his arms…Instead, they scattered in every direction, except into the warm, lighted barn.

And then, he realized that they were afraid of him. To them, he reasoned, I am a strange and terrifying creature. If only I could think of some way to let them know that they can trust me…That I am not trying to hurt them, but to help them. But how? Because any move he made tended to frighten them, confuse them. They just would not follow. They would not be led or shooed because they feared him.

“If only I could be a bird,” he thought to himself, “and mingle with them and speak their language. Then I could tell them not to be afraid. Then I could show them the way to safe, warm…to the safe warm barn. But I would have to be one of them so they could see, and hear and understand.”

At that moment the church bells began to ring. The sound reached his ears above the sounds of the wind. And he stood there listening to the bells – Adeste Fidelis – listening to the bells pealing the glad tidings of Christmas.

And he sank to his knees in the snow.

Dear friend, that man was saved that night, he finally saw and understood God's message.  Jesus said I am the way, the truth and the life.  He came to this world to save us and He can sav you.  For whosever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. 

God bless you friend and MERY CHRISTMAS !!!

RevDanSam

revdansam@gmail.com

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Christmas- spiritual or secular

Secular Christmas vs. Spiritual Christmas . . . Secular Christmas has Santa, Frosty,  rein deers and silver bells.  Spiritual Christmas has Shepherds, Wise Men, Angels and the baby Jesus.   One is about fun and the other is about our faith.  When I was a child, I did wonder how Santa would come to see us and bring us toys, when our fire place was cemented in and a gas heater was put in.  Obviously, He would come through the front door.  And I know I heard him, but I was to afraid see.  I did not dare look, I kept the covers over my head.  Besides I did not want him to catch me looking and secondly, Santa Clause was a scary looking fellow to me,  BUT those are fun memories for me now.    Then, we have a day set aside to celebrate Our dear Savior's birth.  And to have the songs that talk about HIM !! it's just great.  Usually, there's a radio station, here in Atlanta, that would play Christmas songs 24/7.  But then there was alittle change in the songs.  More was about Santa, Frosty, snow and silver bells. And less about Him.  Now, there's no 24/7 Christmas songs,  they play regular songs and only a few secular Christmas songs and very little Christmas songs about him.  Now, I know the new media of satellite and paid radio can give you Christmas songs 24/7.  But what is this telling us, when many stations played Christmas songs about Him and now they barely mentioned it.   And when they do it's not about our dear Savior's birth.  I remember Christmas Caroling with our church group and one of our new converts did not understand why we did not sing about Santa and snow,  then, in another situation with our church choir, I added Frosty and snow rides to our music and many did not understand.   Well,  . . . . I like them both, there's Christmas that is FUN to me and there's a Christmas that's all about HIM and I like that very much too and it has its own place in my life.

But what's going on in your life now, my friend.  Life is just a vapor (steam) that appears for alittle while then disappears.  You need to be ready when this life is over. And you can, call on Jesus today. Accept Him as your Lord and Savior.  For whosoever shall call on the Lord shall be saved, see Romans chapter10.

God Bless you friend, Christmas can be fun, but it's also about our faith, as we celebrate His Birth.

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

Ring the Bells

While driving in my pick-up truck this morning, I heard on the radio how a memorial service for the children of Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut would be Friday morning. At 9:30 am they will ring the bell 26 times for each victim.  Bells have been used many ways and  many times. For alarm, to announce and to awake, just to name a few things.  I enjoy when bells are ringing.  My son and I enjoy the train bell when it rings out as a stream train would go through the train yard, at what railroad people would call yard speed.  Also, there are the church bells that ring.  And many times it's used to announce church services.   I heard a story many years ago from a preacher how a young man had a promising future in football.  The captain of his high school football team and could have went to the next level.  But when he was asked what he would do after high school he said my job is to stay here and ring the church bell.  For He was the only one that was tall enough to reach the rope, to pull the rope and ring the bell for church.  He was happy with this  responsibility.  It was his way to serve the Lord.

The bible says lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him (the Lord)and He shall direct your path.  The young man was satisfied with his called position and service for the Lord.

But Dear friend, God could be calling you.  First it will be the call of salvation.  He wants to save you first, then it will be a call for service.  As he will call you to service Him.  It might be to ring the bell. To awake, announce or to alarm.

God bless you friend, God loves you, call on Him today.

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

1500th blog views

Well, we reached another mile stone last week. The 1500th view of my blog.  And I say thank you once again.  Blogging has been everything I wanted and an excitement to share.  One thing that I find most interesting is the audience count and the different countries those you who have viewed this blog.  To me, I am literally sharing and evangelizing to the world.  Wow, what a mission field !!  My beginnings in the ministry was simple.  A young preacher boy, who before I announced my preacher calling, I would hang around other older preachers at the local AM radio station and we would broadcast a live thirty minute program.  Then a friend of mine and I started our own thirty minute broadcast.  And I began my ministry of promoting the gospel of Christ.  Here with my blog, I hope to do the same.  It's my outlet, it's my desire.  So I hope to continue here. I want to be an encouragement and a witness.  So thank you from my heart and please pray for me.  And let me know your prayer request and I promise to pray for you.  Else I am determine to continue to do this great work.

But dear friend, the gospel message is true and for you. Jesus came to seek and to save those who are lost. If this is you friend, call on the Lord today, accept the Lord Jesus as your Lord and saviour.

God Bless you and thanks again,

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

(hey, looking for 2000 views next year and yes we can!!)
:-)

In Times Like These

In Times Like These
In times like these, you need a Savior
In times like these you need an anchor
Be very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock
This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He's the one
This Rock is Jesus, The only One
Be very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock

In times like these you need the Bible
In times like these oh be not idle
Be very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock
This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He's the one
This Rock is Jesus, The only One
Be very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock

In times like these, I have a Savior
In times like these, I have an anchor
I'm very sure, I'm very sure
My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock
This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He's the one
This Rock is Jesus, The only One
I'm very sure, I'm very sure
My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock

Dear friend, in time like these, you need the Lord.  For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved,  for with the HEART, man believes, and with the mouth confession is made, do not wonder about this, you must be born again.  Trust in the Lord with all your heart.

God Bless you, and may God help us all.
RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

Balance Parenting

Often my wife and I ask ourselves the question when making parenting decisions with our son, " is this good parenting or are we giving in to what He wants??"  I don't guess we will ever know the answer, but time will tell.  Another question we ask ourselves and it's for a our son who is High functioning Autistic, where does the teenage attitude stop and where does the Autistic mind start.  It's a great challenge for us and if we want to have that balance parenting.  You know, choosing right from wrong or good from bad or good decisions.  Some time years ago I heard a secular guy say that parenting was like a dice through, or a crap shot.  You through it out and it's unknown what you will really get, until the dice land.  But the bible says train up a child and he will not depart from his ways.  I know this has a big percentage of not working.  For I have seen and you have to, we have seen a child be rised in a christian home and only to find the devil taking their child.  But I remember the words from the song and verse from the bible that says, " but I know whom I have believed and I am persuaded that He is able, to keep that which I have committed unto Him"  And another good advice from a preacher friend was to "keep you children close to God and let him do the rest".  The meaning of this advice can be explained in another blog,  but if we pray and read the bible with them and keep them in church, then, at least we have a chance and that will balance our parenting.

But dear friend, my  favor verse and my first verse I memorized says to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean NOT on your own understanding and He shall direct you path.  I believe the good will help you and me, if we put all trust in HIM !!

God Bless you,

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

Prayer it just works

Well, once again, God has proven, to me and my family, that He hears and answers prayer.  We had a financial need for our son.  It seems to always  start that way, a need for a family member and it pulls on our hearts and is very heavy on our minds.  Well, we put out the word to family, friends and fellow churchgoers, a prayer request for our son.  Our niece told her church, grandmother had her Sunday school class to pray and many others as well.   It reminds me what an evangelist friend of mine said to me many years ago.  He said when there's need in my life, I let everybody, all praying christian know so that they can pray.  Well, we know it says un the bible the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.  And it says to make our request known.  But honestly, I don't have all the answers to prayer nor the all the keys.  But that which I do know and I do testify, GOD HEARS AND ANSWERS PRAYER.  And I am not sure of the who, the how or the why, but God answers in his own time and way.  A key to prayer, I have observed, is that when many prays for you, God answers.  Well, needless to say, God did answer our prayer for our son.  A financial need was met.  I am glad that I saw it and I'm so glad my family saw it and my son experienced it.  Thank you Lord for answering prayer.

But dear friend, God will hear you, when you call upon Him.  The bible trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding, come to Him through faith and believing.

God Bless you Friend,

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

Thank you Lord for blessings

I feel inspired today, so will do a couple of blog post.  I am thankful for God's blessings on me.  When I consider my Family, my faith and  my future, I say thank you Lord for your blessings on me.  I love my family.  My wife is my love of my youth.  I married the pastor's daughter.  We started out interested in each other, then fighting and then she caught me. Wow, she does complete me.  When I pastored, she was a great pastor's wife and musician / pianist or organist.  Then I love my son.  He has become our life.  His interests and plans become our interest and plans.  Our world turns around him.  My faith is my foundation.  What I fall back on, it's what keeps me going.  It gives me a meaning in life.  I PROMOTE THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST !! AMEN!!  My faith inspires me to preach, read and write blogs.  I have a secular technical blog, dansamtech005.blogspot.com, for my job and tech interests. But I am most inspired to blog about the Lord, my humble experiences and my faith.  Thank you Lord for your blessings on me.  And this is my future,  truly I look for the glorious return of our Lord, but until then, I have a path, that's lighted by him. In psalms 23, the last verse of the chapter says that I may dwell in the house of the LORD forever.   Now in my young christian mind and most of my life, I thought he meant the church house.  I thought this this would be the thing that I do ALL the days of my life.  And I think it does have an personal application.  But it was when I read after F.B. Myers, that I realize he was talking about heaven. But either way,  it's my future.  I will dwell in the house of the Lord while on this earth and I will dwell in the house of the Lord in heaven.  Praise-the -Lord !! AMEN !!

But dear friend, what's your future??  The bible whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  Jesus said in my father's house are many places, (I happened to believe, one of those mansions is mine) And Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. It's through HIM.  What must you do to be saved?? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and also your house, your home, your family. 

Thank you LORD for your blessings on me!!
RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

they could not be heard

In the bible, in the New Testament,  Acts chapter 16 is the story of the Philippians Jailer being saved.   Paul and Silas were put in prison for basically preaching and witnessing.  The bible says they were chained and put in the inner prison.  I have always heard that this act was alittle over excessive for preachers of the gospel.  Being placed in the inner prison one would think that would be for an harden criminal or mean man.  Definitely an over kill for two preachers of the gospel.  I've always had this thought until a Sunday school student suggested that Paul and Silas was put in there so THAT THEY COULD NOT BE HEARD.   WOW, what a thought, what insight.   The Jailer put them in the inner prison so that they could not be heard.  They did not want Paul and Silas to be heard by the people of the city of Philippi.  You know, there are so many who want to silence the name of Christ and the great gospel message in our day and time.   What could have the Apostle Paul and Silas been saying, that they where put in the inner prison.  They were not a great criminal, just a couple of gospel preachers of Christ.  The law of the land did not want anybody to hear them. 
The gospel of Christ is a great message of salvation.  But it's against Humanism and many other false religious teachings.  But it's the way of salvation, it's the way to God.  For all have sin and come short of the glory of God.  God demonstrated His love toward us, that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  For by grace are you saved, through faith, and NOT of yourself, it is the gift of God and not of works lest any man should boast.

Dear Christian Friend, many false teachers and secular Humanist will try to silence our great message. But we have a mission and a mandate to preach and teach the gospel in ALL the world. Because it's real and it works.

God bless you,
RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

What could I have done??

What more could I have done ??  My guy did not win, so sad.  But, as I look at this and being the natural analyst that I am, I see all my friends voted for my guy, my family too.  I noticed my city where I live voted for him, and even my state, a red state, went his way.  So I ask, what more could I have done??  I am not rich and  He has money and raised alot of money.  But what more could I have done??  Obviously, the blue northern states was a strong hole for the president, maybe I could have went there and campaign??  But who in those northern (Yankee) states would have listened to me, a white fat southern boy.  What more could I have done??  I really do not have the answer, I could have prayed more, give my time, talent and treasures.  And this is true.  Would it have made a difference??  We will never know, the president won, we have four more years of him.  But I know one thing,  WHAT MORE CAN I DO FOR MY LORD??  Yes I can pray more, I can give him my time, talent and treasures.  And the results will be eternal. 

I believe the writer was correct, and what I heard  a preacher say is true, "WHAT WE DO IN THIS LIFE WILL PASS, BUT WHAT WE DO FOR JESUS WILL LAST !!  And I say A-men to that. :-)

For God so love the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life, for with the heart man believes and with the mouth confession is made, for whoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  And I believe that !!

God bless you friend, call on Him today.

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

1000th blog view - thank you

Well, I have over 1000 views of my blog.  Most interestingly, views from 10 different countries around the world.  A missionary effort on my keyboard from my home.  I desire to be a voice and a light.  It reminds me of the railroad crossings that we (my son and I) are usually stationed at when rail fanning.  There's the bell sound and the flashing lights to indicate / alarm you of the approaching locomotive.  In other words, there's the sound and light. (also bells & whistles) BUT, that's me, that's what I desire to do with Gospel of Christ.  In the bible, John the Baptist, was a voice crying in the wilderness.  Jesus said He is the light of the world. Especially for those who are in darkness.  I am about the promotion of the gospel message and I am about promoting Sunday church (I hope I don't lose some here) But we should worship the Lord on the first day of the week, the Lord's Day, the day Christ rose from the grave !!  The first day of the week, giving Him the first place.  In the Old Testament, it says, Six days God created the earth, and rested on the seventh day, Saturday. The sabbath, always has been Saturday, But Jesus Christ is the Lord of the Sabbath, He's our Sabbath, I rest in HIM !! But I worship Him on the First day of the week.  Anyway, . . . . . perhaps another blog post.
Most of all I want to say a BIG THANK YOU !! for your views and time spent with me. To God be the Glory !! A-MEN.  I hope to continue this new outlet for me. WWW means WorldWideWeb I hope to reach the world with the Gospel of Christ.   Brethren, please pray for me.

God Bless you friend, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and He shall direct your path.

RevDanSam
revdansam@GMail.com

That's Him followup

I just blogged, "Well that's God, that's Him"  and I want to followup with another story.  It was at my first church where I was Pastor.  It was a Missions Sunday, which was for our Missionaries that we supported and for the Church to enlighten them to have a heart for Missions. We would invite missionary families to come to our church to share their work and have a meal with them Sunday afternoon  and Sunday night.  Part of our day is a visit to our Mission's Closet.  Where we would have items of need for the missionaries while they travel and for their home.  One missionary family came by and usually the wife gathers the needed items. Little did we know but she was needing some shampoo and we had a bottle in our mission closet.  She would later stand and testify how God is good !! For the shampoo that she needed was given to her and no only was it what she needed, but it was her favorite brand. And that's Him !!, that's God !!, that's how He works!!, supplying all of our needs according to his riches in glory, see Phil 4:19 in the bible.  It became a blessing to us, the church, and a great lesson to them on how God works and supplies their needs.  To God be the Glory for the great things that He has done.

And Dear friend, God is working in your life, "Hear ye Him !!"  Call on Him while He is near.  The hand of the Lord is not short that He cannot save, but He welcomes you with open arms through prayer. For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

May God Bless you,

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

Well that's God

Atlanta Street Baptist Church, where my family and I are members, is working with OCC, Operation Christmas Child and the giving of shoe boxes to children around the world.  Last Sunday, a representative showed a power point presentation that touched my heart and mind.  One particular picture and its story reminded me, "well that's God, that's Him !!"  The picture showed a young brown color teen age boy with a great big smile as  he opened his Christmas box, which is a clear tupper ware container, which OCC calls shoe boxes, and they are about the same size maybe bigger.   He looked so happy.  For in the Christmas box was a pair of tennis shoes, size 13.  Well, it was heard when the boxes was filled the volunteer packer said, I hope whoever gets this can wear it, speaking of the shoes.  I am not sure where the miracle starts, but let me tell what happened.  As I said that shoebox was stuff full, shoes inside, and sent off designated for a teenage boy.  The same person that heard the remark made by the volunteer worker, also saw the teenage boy receive and open the box. The teen was so happy and most of all, . . . . the shoes fit him, just the right size !!  Ain't GOD good, that's Him, that's the way He works and operates. Shoes  that were given here in the states then lands in the lap of a teenage boy and it fits him.  What a miracle, what a God !!

Dear Friend, God may be working in your life.  God would have ALL to be saved and come the knowledge of truth.  The bible says for you to trust in the LORD with all your heart. For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  Let go and let God and you will realize that "Well, that's HIM !!"

God Bless you friend,

REVDANSAM
revdansam@gmail.com

Fun Times

My family and I went Rail Fanning yesterday in northwest Georgia.  My son is the Railroad expert and great photographer using the Panasonic Lumix digital camera.  The Lord really speaks to me during the rail fanning experience and it gives me alot of blogging thoughts.  One thought that occurred to me was when would we gathered at a designated spot on the train track to take a picture with our cameras.  Usually, a crowd will gather and this reminded me of my home church in the 1980s.  Things were going well for the church, we grew to be a 300 member church added a third role of pews (church benches) and our parking lot was over flowing with cars.  They were parked every where around the church.  Very noticeable to the public. We had many people who would just come in to see what was going on.  It was an interesting thing.  People would stop just to see what was going on.  It seem same way yesterday while rail fanning. Many would stop just to see what was going on.  Some would stay with us and others would move on.  After all, seeing a working steam engine in the 2000s is something to see these days.  But, some were interested some were not. Almost the same interest with our church.  Anyway, in both cases we had alot of joy and fun times. 

Dear Friend,  many wish to see Jesus but then become less interested.  Jesus left his glory above to become man and dwell among us.  Jesus came to seek and to save those who are lost. He loves you and he will save you today, if you call on Him.  For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. Jn.3:16

God bless you,
RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

Bring them to Jesus

A few years ago in my bible studies, I began to start reading about the disciples of Christ. "The Twelve" as mentioned by one bible writer and in the books Matthew & Mark in the bible in the New Testament.  But one of my favorite disciple is Andrew.  He brought many to Christ including his brother, Peter, who would go on to lead this band of men and would be their spokesman many times.  And much could be said about Peter here in this blog, he's a great type of a Christan, but that's another blog some day at another time.  Andrew, who was a disciple of John Baptist, really became the first disciple of Christ. While he wasn't a great speaker preacher, but he brought many to Christ.  WOW, what great need today!! Bringing lost men and women to Christ.  A preacher friend of mine said from the pulpit one Sunday, "Keep your children close to Jesus and let Him do the rest"  I believe same could be said of our lost friends and loved one, but, bring them to Jesus, (church) and let Jesus do the rest.  For they will be converted when they see and understand Christ' love, labor and laying down his life.  The words Fishers of men, literally mean caughter's of men. We need to bring men to Christ, then let his words and ways touch them unto salvation.  Honestly, I can do a lot things for God, but I feel the closes to Him when I am in some type soul winning effort and leading men to Christ.  Yes, I love to preach from pulpits and radio stations and now the Internet. My heart's desire is to lead men and women to Christ, maybe, it's yours too.  I will forever promote and proclaim the Gospel (good news) of Christ.

But dear neighbor, First, accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. Call on Him today and be saved. For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  For with Heart, men believe unto righteousness.  It's the same for ALL mankind.  If you will confess the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart. the bible says YOU will be saved. See Romans 10:9-13.  Then you can, as Andrew did, bring many to Jesus.

God Bless you friend,

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

It's really HIM !!

Many years ago I experienced a neat thing that I often think about from time to time as I ponder it in memory.  My son was turned on to Thomas the train, at an early part of his life.  We saw all the TV shows and videos that there could be.  Along with that came the train sets and trains toy.  He really got into it . . . and his cousin also.   Well, my son heard that Thomas the train was going to be in a town near us and he wanted to go see him.  He invited his cousin and we loaded the truck and went out to see Thomas the train.  The boys were so excited.  As we came to the town and drove to the train tracks the boy's eye kept looking and waiting.  We saw the signs and the crowd. Then all of a sudden we went around a building, crossing some railroad tracks, and he was there parked on the tracks.  Then I HEARD a voice from the back seat that said something that I will never forget. "IT'S REALLY HIM !!"  Saying it with a gasp of air. "it's really him" 
Now I believe God, I believe the bible, Jesus said Let not your heart be troubled, if you believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many Mansions, (God's rooms has to be a mansion to us, see a later blog, ha,ha )  Jesus said I go to prepare a place for you and if I go, I will come again and receive you unto myself.  I believe that He will return !!   And when we see Him in the air, we will say what a little boy said about Thomas the train, "It's  really Him !!"  

But Dear friend, you have to be saved first, you must be born again.  Like a regular train ride you must make your reservations, and YOU can do that when you call on God to save you.  For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

With the Call of salvation,

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com

A Good Thing

A good thing happened to me last Friday morning.  It was Friday, it was payday, and I usually  get a breakfast biscuit on this day.  Earlier in the week, a co-worker help me setup my tablet PC for the Internet and I wanted to thank him by buying an extra biscuit for him.  Well, I placed my order then drove through the "drive through" to pick up my order. Then to my surprise, I was told that my order was paid for by the previous customer.  I WAS SHOCKED !!  An unknown person paid for breakfast order and I got a free biscuit along with my co-worker.  Now, I am not a rich man, but what a blessing.  Little is much for me. I was trying to feed myself and feed a friend and God took care of it for me.  I actually believe that all good and perfect gifts comes from above, from God.  I believe it was a blessing from God.  Also, I wanted to be a blessing and I got blessed.
You know, I have seen this before and made a mental note.  I have a friend, who's in my mind right now, I could call his name, who has been willing to help another person and then he received an unpaid blessing by helping another and then God would bless him physically and financially.  God is definitely GOOD!!

And God can bless you, dear Friend, first you have to be saved, born again, then God will bless his children.  Jesus came to this earth to seek and save those who are lost.  The bible says trust in the Lord with all your heart, for whosoever shall call on the Lord shall be saved. 

I believe in the Father (God), I believed in the Son (Jesus) and I believe in the Spirit (Holy Spirit) I believe in the three in one. 

I just want to thank you Lord for your blessing on me!!

RevDanSam
revdansam@gmail.com
John 3:16

Tell it, Share it

Last Thursday night, my son's high school won their first football game of the season.  It was against a team that is very good and usually make it our state's playoff.  We were hoping for least a close game and perhaps a miracle win.  Well, . . . WE WON !! 32-30,  a great win for the home team.  We went to bed that night and waited for the next day to tell everybody.  Mine was interesting and that's when God moved on my heart.  I had no one to tell!!  No one knew about the schools, no one heard the game nor the win.  I felt so down and so sad for I had GREAT NEWS to tell and share.  But I had none to tell and share.  It reminded me of the Good News, the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Many times we feel there's none to tell and none to share it with. The greatest story ever told and the Good news of the Gospel, that can save lives, and many of us feel we have none to share it with.  I had to ask myself, I'm I just as sad when I have no one to share the gospel with.  It really made me think, as a minister and a Christan, a follower of Jesus.  The Apostle Paul said,  in Romans 1:16
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.  He was willing to share it with those had religion and those who had the great mind, the thinkers and intellectual.  And Paul matched the wisdom of God with the wisdom of the world. ( there's really no contest).
I can get really excited about God's good news and I have many times.  But just as I got excited to tell someone about a winning ball game, I should have the desire to tell and share the Great news of Jesus and become sad when I have no one to tell it to. The song in the Red Hymn book says, I Love to tell the story, especially to those who know it best, those who seems to be hungering and thirsting, to hear it like the rest.
The Apostle Paul also said In 1cor15:
³ For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
⁴ And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
I pray that we ALL, will want to share the Gospel of Jesus.

God Bless you neighbor,
RevDanSam

(ps. WE BEAT GAINESVILLE, THE RED ELEPHANTS 32-30, YAHOO!!)

Good works a good thing

Last week, I was talking to a friend who is a volunteer diver at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta.  And he was talking about how they work with special needs children and disable veterans, allowing them to scuba drive and swim in the big aquarium.  He mentioned that they were working with Autistic children and how that they really enjoyed it.  The happiness that they enjoyed and the peacefulness of seeing the fishes in the water was really great for them.  Also, he mentioned the doctors now are taking their information and incorporating their findings into the therapy for the children.  This touched my heart as I pondered this great work for the children and for those with special needs.  Here volunteers were trying to do something GOOD, trying to bring joy to a special needs person’s life and now their good deeds will go further to help others. 

How many times have we seen when doing good works or a good deed and then something good comes from it?  In my Christian life, I have heard and I have been taught what joy is. (J-O-Y) It’s when we put Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last.  This is not exactly popular to secular teachings, but it's what the Lord teaches to us.

Good works and good deeds will not saved you, nor give you entrance into heaven.  You must be saved, you must to be born again.

For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Rom. 10:13

But I do believe when you do good works, that good things will happen to you. God sees when you help others. And I believe that He will help you.  My Lord keeps a record.

God Bless you neighbor,

RevDanSam

The way it is

Hello neighbor,

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall
not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. John 3:36

John 3:36

Amplified Bible (AMP)

 And he who believes in (has faith in, clings to, relies on) the Son has (now possesses) eternal life. But whoever disobeys (is unbelieving toward, refuses to trust in, disregards, is not subject to) the Son will never see (experience) life, but [instead] the wrath of God abides on him. [God’s displeasure remains on him; His indignation hangs over him continually.]

Nuff said.  That just about says it all.

This verse concludes the great Bible chapter and Christ's dissertation on the New Birth, Being born again.

Ye must be born again !!

RevDanSam

It is Not me

Psalm 51

³ For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
⁴ Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight:

Many times you will find a time clock to clock in your time to be in the break room / lunch room.  I remember an instance that  happen in our break room with a time clock.  One of our young customer service rep. (CSR) always appear to have a problem clocking in and out.  As we were suppose to use our finger print, usually the index finger to clock in.  The young CSR seem always to have trouble doing this, and not because she was a blond (that's another blog someday, ha, ha)   But she would always wipe the finger scanner, instead of just wiping her finger.  I saw this happen several times, and she almost did this instinctively, wiping the scanner, instead of wiping off her index finger. Finally, another co-worker told her to wipe her finger and then she was able to clock without a problem. 
I have thought about this many times, such an easy task, but the mind set that she had was I am not the problem it's something else.  It's the finger scanner and not me !!  Not my finger.  And so it is with many, many people today. It's not me and I don't have the problem !!

In Psalms 51, David said it is me, I acknowledge my sin, my sin is before me. He knew that problem started with Himself and he confessed it to God.  He came clean with God because of his confession. 
Well, confession is good for the soul, we need a solution and not be part of the problem. Call on the Lord today, confess to him and call in His name to be saved. In the bible in the New Testament Romans Chapter 10 verse 9 - 13,
⁹ That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. ¹⁰ For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.¹³ For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Dear friend many will say that it's not me, and will never be saved, but I am telling you this thought today, right now as you read this, Look within, Look to Jesus and live.

May God Bless you,
RevDanSam
 
⁵ Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Pray Boys Pray !!

I had a fond memory last week while driving my pickup truck to pick up my son from school.  I drove by the red brick building that use to be my home church when I was a single young man.  I remember a particular service that I was in.  The young preachers boys would sit on the front role on the left of the sanctuary (right side viewing from the pulpit) We had one of those rejoicing services where there was singing and shouting, then the altars filled up with people making a decisions for Christ or praying (what we called doing business with God).  One of the persons at the altar was praying a very long time and in tears.  We called this type of prayer, trying to get the victory, and he could not get it.  On the middle isle on the middle pew sat two of our older deacons.  One of them was Brother Joe.  He was a happy man and a spiritually lead man.  He knew what was going on  at the altar.  The young man could not get the victory and was in tears.  Brother Joe knew us preacher boys was there on the front role and he turned to us while the singing was going on and shouted "PRAY BOYS PRAY !!"  Well, you would have thought we just got orders from the president.  We jumped out of our pews and got on our knees and called on God.  We prayed!!  The young man got the victory.  We were proud that we were able to respond to the call from Brother Joe.  And we had a great meeting.  Brother Joe is in heaven now, but I can see his face as he called on us to pray.  He normally would be wearing glasses but he took them off and had tears in his eyes when he shouted to us to pray.  It a time and service that I will never forget.

But dear friend, the bible says in Romans 10:13 that whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  I hope you are a christian and I hope you are saved.  If you are not, you can be, just call on the Lord. 

God bless you friend,

Rev. Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com

Striving together Athletes & Christians

Philippians 1:27

 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

While watching the Olympics games this week, I kept hearing the term TEAMWORK mentioned time and time again by the sport announcers and analysts.  Whether it was with swimming or the relay race, the team has to work together and with a common goal.  It reminded me of the verse in Phil. 1:27 and Warren Wiersbe commentary, that says the word translated “striving together” gives us our English word athletics.  Paul pictures the church as a team, and he reminds them that it is teamwork that wins victories.  The Olympics games show us how that teamwork wins victories. And it will win a Gold medal.  I like the running relay race and the passing of the batons from one runner to the other, fulfilling their part of the race.  In many ways it’s the same way with the Christians. The generations before us passes the baton to us in our time then we will pass the baton on to the next generation of Christians for them to run their part.  Each one are only responsible for his part of the race.  One writer said that this generation of Christians are only responsible for this generation becoming Christians.  And I really feel that there’s some great truth to that statement.  I am also reminded of the scriptures that say we laborers together with God. I also like the sentence break down, that says, we are laborers, we are laborers together, we are laborers together with GOD !!  But it does take teamwork to serve God.  I am reminded of the story in the gospel of Mark, how it took four men to bring one man to Christ.  Maybe it should be that way today. But that may be another blog.  Anyway, we need to be about the Our Heavenly Father’s business and serving him together and teamwork.   We should be striving together for the faith of the gospel.

God Bless you neighbor, are you saved ?? Call on Him today. See Romans 10:9,10,13.

Rev. Daniel Samples

revdansam@gmail.com

The Christian and the Olympic games

1 Cor. 9:24-25
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. ²⁵ And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

The summer Olympics are here and all the athletics are striving and wanting to win a metal, especially the Gold Metal.  This similar thing went on in the Apostle Paul’s day and He made an observation in 1 Cor. 9:24-25.  In that day, the runners at the stadium would win a green wreath.  I read one place where the prize was a green olive branch that the winner would wear on his head.  Whatever the exact prize was, the Apostle Paul said that prize will fade, turn brown and go away on this earth, as an earthly prize.  Yet the athletic will train long and work hard for this temporal prize or crown.   And may I say, there’s certainly nothing wrong with working hard, especially when we live in a time and mind set that a lot young people have today, that they do Not have to work hard or suffer to get the best things in life. And this world’s crown / prize just did not seem worth it to him.  Paul was looking to eternity.  He wanted to win the soul winner's crown, the pastor’s crown, the victor’s crown and the crown for loving his appearing.  These are crowns that we can win in this life time and we will enjoy through eternity.  Many years ago I heard this phrase, “what we do in this world will past, but what we do for Jesus will last.”  We need to serve the Lord and be about our father’s business.  This is an observation from the Apostle Paul and he shared it with us.  Read in Phil. Chapter 3:3-7.  Also Phil. Chap.1 He said, For me to live is Christ. !!!  It was not about power, prosperity and pretty things to have, it was about living and serving Jesus.  He said But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory.

But first friend, you must be saved, you must be born again, confess your sin and accept Jesus Christ as your savior.  For whosoever shall call on this name of the Lord shall be saved.  For with the mouth confession is made but with the heart one believes unto salvation. See Romans 10: 9-10 & 13.

Truly, what we do in this life shall past, but what we do for Jesus will last.  For time to come and eternity!!

God Bless you,

RevDanSam

Baseball and The Gatekeepers

John 10:3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

Baseball and The  Gatekeepers

While watching a Baseball history program on the television the other day, I heard the narrator mentioned how the baseball scouts who sat in the stands watching the game were the gate keepers of the future for all the young players wanting to make it in the big leagues.  Then I heard another interview with a former baseball player that, when he was a young boy, could not get in to the stadium to watch a game because the gate keeper would not let him in.  At that moment, God started working on my heart and mind.  There are many spiritual applications here that one could mention, but here’s mine.  In the scripture John 10:3, the porter is really the door or gate keeper.  Jesus is the Good shepherd, there’s no question about this being taught in the scriptures.  The shepherd calls and the sheep hear and He leads them out.  This is how one is saved / born again. Our precious Lord will call through the Holy Spirit or in different ways, and when the sheep hear, and I mean really hear Him, they follow Him for salvation and for service in the ministry.  The Lord speaks at many times and in many ways, but do you really hear Him??

Also, in the computer world, a PC will need a gateway address to access the Internet or join in another network.  A PC can work within itself but is limited in what it could do.  It cannot be all it can be until it learns or access the gateway, only then will it find the way.

Dear friend what are you looking for in your life.  The gate is the place of decision.  You must decide if you want access to life and to the Lord.  It will determine you future and eternity.  Eternity is too long to be wrong!!

The baseball scouts went in many ways and many places to search for a player to become part of his team.  In same way, ministers and preachers are looking for souls to win for the Lord.  And this could be your future, you could become a part of God’s team and have a home in heaven.

God bless you friend,

RevDanSam

The Catfish Blessing

Philippians 4:19

 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus

We were coming home from our summer vacation the other day.  Sadden that we had to cut our vacation short one day, because of the hotel reservation error in cost.  We were tired and feeling a little down.   Traffic was really bad on I-75 north on the south side of Atlanta, and on a Friday.  My wife had mentioned that she wanted some fish and chips for supper, but with the traffic, we did not have to many choices.  Then she saw a BBQ restaurant billboard.  We figured, well, we will take a supper break and let the traffic clear out some.  It wasn’t fish, but the BBQ looked and smelled good.  We were seated by the hostess beside a business lady.  Then we ordered our food.  The business lady spoke to us and said that she had ordered the catfish special, but she could not eat all of it, and she did not like to waste food, and wondered if we would take it.  (I know most of you, probably would not have, but we did!!) It was two catfish fillets with fries, and she quietly went away as we finished our supper.  Then, it occurred to me, God was watching out for us and gave us a fish blessing.  We got in the car and I put two and two together.  A fish and free food that was given to us, it had to be the LORD.  The bible says, my GOD shall supply all you need according to His riches in glory!!  And I believe that and you should too.  Listen, God speaks at different times, in different manners, in different ways.  But we should keep our spiritual eyes and ears open. Maybe there will be more blessings for us if we do!!   Sometimes it’s the little things.  Sometimes you need a catfish blessing.

But first, dear neighbor, you must be saved and born again.  For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord, shall be saved. See Romans 10:13 God loves you, see John 3:16.   For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

God Bless you,

Rev. Daniel Samples

revdansam@gmail.com

The Call of GOD and you

In my experience and in the Bible, the call of GOD comes first with hearing.  Hearing the call.  And I must admit this can come through situations, sermons, scriptures and through the Holy Spirit.  Let me briefly explain, God will allow / direct situations to happen in your life, where it gets you attention and helps you to realize, God is talking to you and this is needful in many a person’s life.  Of course there's sermons, God's messenger speaking and the message pointedly lands on your heart.  This is a very good source.  Then  more clearly there's the scriptures, GOD's own words, as you read them, then it starts to work on your heart and mind. Usually, the Holy Spirit enlightens you and guides you, as God is dealing with you.  An inner desire is after the fact, commitment is after the fact, clarification and evaluation is usually after the fact the GOD has spoke to you.  Many times, one will argue with GOD and say 'NOT ME" but it usually is, and the loving Heavenly Father gives you an opportunity to answer the call, and become apart the Father's business.  Abraham believed God, after he heard, Moses heard God, I am that I am.  Peter heard Jesus, gave up fishing, Paul Heard Jesus and God changed his life.  The song says that He speaks in a still small voice. Give me the bible, God's word, read it and take it in.  Then hear a sermon, by one of God's men, to assure you and lead you.  Then be aware of the situations that come to you and that open up to you. It will all come together, if it's of God.  My life's verse, Proverbs 3:5-6, tells it all. Interesting it was the first verse I ever memorize, and yet it's a verse I've used time and time again. 
⁵ Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
⁶ In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

God bless you neighbor, we need to listen and hear when God calls us.

Rev. Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com

And His call can be for salvation, it can be separation and for service.  :-)

Heads bowed & eyes closed

The other morning I was listening to one of my pre-programmed radio stations, where I can just hit a button and I can listen to a variety of stations, news, sports, oldies and country.  I like to listen to Moby in the Mornings around 6:30 AM because he usually plays a southern gospel song and does the pledge of allegiance.  I was running a little late and missed most of the song, but the song had an instrumental music trailer ending. And Moby interrupted and said "Oh, this is the preachers part"  Heads bow and eyes close. Just like it would be if you were in church and the preacher was starting the invitation, were you are invited to come to the altar to pray or be saved.  Many times the preacher will have prayer at the end of his sermon and start the invitation by saying Heads bowed and eyes close.  The phrase just jumped out at me!!! Again, I was in my Ford pickup truck, me and God, but wow, He sure does speak to me there a lot and often.  I have heard the phrase (H.B.E.C.) many times and I probably used the phrase many times myself.  It really made me feel good and I smiled, as a country music radio announcer mentioned a phrase that I heard all my life and in way connected him to me more. In a world that has turned from the old ways and old paths of God and church, it felt real good to hear him say that and made realize that this is a church going man, at least one time in his life, maybe still is, and this is what is part of me.  I am about GOD and I am about church.  This is what a family and a man need in his life. Proverb 3:5-6 says to Trust in the LORD with all thine heart and lean not on thine own understanding, in all they all ways acknowledge HIM and He shall direct thy path.  And it starts with prayer, Heads bowed and I eye closed.
For whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD, shall be saved.
Jeremiah 33:3  Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things

God Bless you neighbor,

Rev. Daniel Samples

revdansam@gmail.com

Tears of a Truck Driver

At my home church, in North Georgia in the early 1980s, I was a Bus Captain for one of the five buses we had in our Children's Bus ministry.  A very busy time of my life, a young single preacher boy, working a 40 hour a week job, going to Bible College at night and singing in the youth and Adult choirs.  Not to mention the weekly live radio program at our local AM radio station.  (just a great time!!) The buses were the yellow school buses, bought and repaired for the bus ministry.  Our bus drivers were very interesting men.  They had to have CDL licenses to drive the bus and many of them were 18 wheel truck drivers, retired and current drivers.  Their part in the ministry was very important. And I remember seriousness and a forward attitude for their part that they did for the Lord.  Driving for the bus ministry.  They served God the best way that they could and enjoyed it.  And we would have one of those testimonial meetings, and the tears would be shed and a brokenness was heard in their voices as they knew that they were serving GOD the best way that they could in their life. They would stand and share what was in their heart about serving GOD in that aspect of the ministry.  It just brings a smile to my face and warms my heart to remember their tears of happiness and helping attitude.  They loved God and they serve Him gladly.

God bless you neighbor, before service, there must be salvation.  Call on the name of the Lord and be saved, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.  Jesus said "I am the way the the Truth and the life, no man can come to the Father, except by me"  see John 316 and John 3:36.

Rev. Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com

Our Labor for the Lord

Another thought from Dr. Stanley's Daily Devotional.  I feel like I'm Re-tweeting or maybe re-blogging???  This a great thought, for me and my family, at this point in our lives.  We have served the LORD since the 1980s, and I am glad GOD will not forget our work and our labor for Him.

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A Servant's Rewards
Hebrews 6:10
10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister .
 In His grace, God freely gives salvation to those who believe in Jesus. We cannot earn this gift, nor do we deserve it. Our Father does notice our good works, though. And He promises to reward us according to what we have done for Him.
 True service occurs when we allow the Lord to work through us for His glory and honor. True ministry occurs when divine resources meet human need through loving channels.
 Revelation 22:12 encourages us, "Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done." Whether large or small, all service done in Jesus' name will be blessed. We must be careful, though, that our actions are for Christ's glory. If motives are self-serving, the only benefit we receive is the praise (if any) that we hear from people in this life. And we know that men's approval is not satisfying or lasting.
 While some rewards will be given in heaven, other blessings can be experienced now. For example, we know great joy when we allow God to bless others through us. And there is deep satisfaction in realizing that we are pleasing Christ. In addition,there's a profound sense of fulfillment when we lead a person to Jesus and teach him how to walk by faith.
 Serving others is both a great benefit and a responsibility for Christians. We should prayerfully consider our motives to make sure that our goal is to glorify Christ. Only then will we receive God's full blessings--rewards given not only in eternity but on earth as well. - CS
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I like the text verse, Hebrews 6:10, I checked the other translations, and they all agree on the word "forget"  and chose to use that word.  God will not "FORGET" our work of faith and our labor of love for Him.  And remember, praying counts!!! Giving your time, talent, treasures counts !!! Speaking and witnessing to a lost person counts !!!  MY LORD KEEPS A RECORD !!! (in the cloud, well heaven)
God bless you friend, first, be saved, born again, for whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. see Romans 10:13, also see John 3:16, Proverbs 3:5-6.
And Christian friend, please, be about the Father's business, promote the Gospel of Christ !!!!!

Standing Before God’s Open Door

I am forwarding a daily devotional from Dr. Stanley, we are laborers together with GOD.

Standing Before God’s Open Door

1 Corinthians 16:8-9

The apostle Paul had passion and vision to reach the world with the good news about salvation. As he followed the Spirit’s leading, his determination proved effective. There’s no telling how many lives the Lord transformed through this man. And his influence is still impacting people today.

Paul knew that Jesus had instructed His followers to “make disciples of all the nations,” teaching them to observe everything He had commanded (Matt. 28:19). God led and enabled the apostle to do his part in carrying out this divine mission.

But think about life back then—that was a big task for a time when there was no mass communication. Paul could only teach, write, or train others to share the truth. In spite of limited means, however, he obeyed fervently and effectively.

God’s command is still relevant for us today. He has given us the work of telling all nations about redemption through Christ’s blood and resurrection. Compared to Paul, we have an abundance of communication capabilities—including radio, television, Internet, and cell phones—which provide easy access into countries all over the world. We could make more disciples by better utilizing these technologies. But how tragic if we get busy and fail to obey God’s command.

We stand at a critical moment in history for the church. The door of opportunity is wide open for us to share the gospel through a variety of methods. As believers, we are obligated to carry out Christ’s Great Commission. Be careful that neither busyness nor apathy keeps you from obedience.

God Bless you neighbor, we need to be about our Father's business.

The train sound and Jesus' return

1 Thess. 4
¹⁶ For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  ¹⁷ Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
¹⁸ Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

As mentioned, my family and I did some Rail-fanning last week in Atlanta Georgia.  We went to see the Grand Steam engine Southern 630.  My son and I did a photo run-by in Dalton, Rome, Atlanta and Hapeville.  A lot of fun with very nice people, the Rail Fans, and with my wife and son. 
On a couple of occasions, I heard a reoccurring statement that was made in two different places.  One in the yard at Rome Georgia and one in Hapeville Georgia.  My son and I was on our way to Rome, when I happen to see a small sign on the Highway "Southern Rail yard" We turned down the street and found that 630 was schedule to stop there for maintenance for her journey to Atlanta.  The engine came into the yard sounding its steam whistle and a crowd of people gathered to see it.  One older lady, who was the daughter of a Steam engineer, her Dad had actually driven 630 was there in the yard taking pictures.  She said an interesting statement.  She said that while she was in her house she heard the steam whistle and could tell that there was something special about that sound. She got husband and they drove over to the yard because she heard that special sound.  Again, while in Hapville, a gentleman said I was in my house and I heard that steam whistle, that special sound and I had to come over to see what was going on.  When I heard this reoccurring statement God started working on my heart and mind. 
Many of us are not looking for signs, but we are listening for the shout.  That special sound, the voice of the archangel and the trumpet of God, sounding the return of Jesus Christ.  The bible says we will meet Him in the air.  There we will appear for the the Believers' Judgement for our labor, the Marriage of Lamb to his bride the Church and then enjoy the marriage supper of the Lamb.  And then spend the honeymoon on the earth for a 1000 glorious years.   (well, at least you know where I stand on this point) Don't worry, many many of us do not agree in the manner of his coming but we do agree in the message of his coming and it could be soon. And what will He find you doing for Him ???  We need to be about the Father's business.  What will YOU be doing when YOU hear the special sound??? We should not be looking for signs, besides  that's for the Jews, but rather we should be listening for the SHOUT !!! The special sound that ONLY believers will hear when Jesus comes again.  With Engine 630 train whistle, many were going about their regular business, but then, they heard the sound, are you ready ???
First, dear friend you have to be saved / born again, to be apart of, when the saints come marching in.  For whosoever shall on the name of the Lord, shall be shall saved, for with the heart, man believes unto salvation and with your month confession is made. 

God Bless you neighbor, will you heard the sound ??? I hope that you will.

Rev Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com

The Coming Train and Jesus

John 14:1-3
 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  ² In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

I had a great time today with my wife and son.  We went to Atlanta to do some RAIL-FANNING.   That means for the Railroad enthusiast, photographing trains, diesel and steam, but for me and my son, we like to photograph (take pictures) of steam locomotives.  One steam locomotive that was schedule run excursion trips for the Southern Railroad Company was Engine 630.  A black steam train that belongs to the Tennessee Valley Railroad museum in Chattanooga Tennessee.  It came to Atlanta this week and many rail fans where on site to view and take pictures of the Grand Engine.   He was schedule for four short run trips from downtown Atlanta to Forrest Park and back again.  It was a special trip that Southern Railroad was doing for its employees.  And only they had the tickets to ride the Grand Old Train Engine 630.  Of course,  we had to wake up very early Saturday morning, (Oh me) to be ready to catch the Train.  Upon arrival downtown Atlanta, near the Georgia Dome area, it was so interesting to see an actual steam train, in Atlanta, with the CNN Center Building in the background and the steam train puffing steam & smoke preparing for their first departure.  (We have many pictures & recorded many videos)  The train left at the appointed time and my family and I went to Hapeville to watch it go down the street, in the middle of the town.  For there are railroad tracks there and it goes through the town.  Upon arriving, we found  a great spot to take pictures and record videos.  A recurring statement was made, that inspired me to write this blog.  If I heard once, I must have heard it 2 or 3 times.  They said "He's coming !!, He's coming!!"  We heard that he's coming.  God started working on my heart and mind.  The spiritual lessons here are obvious and many to tell.   Jesus told us of his return.  It's recorded in the New Testament of the Bible. And it's mentioned in the Old Testament as well.  The coming Messiah of the old testament is the Christ of the New Testament. Anyway, Jesus' return is in the bible and He will return some glad day.  The question is are YOU READY ??? Are you ready for the return of Christ ???  The disciple John wrote about it, the Apostle Paul wrote about it, especially in the Books of 1st & 2nd Thessalonians and the Apostle Peter wrote about it in his two books.  He's coming soon and there's no doubt, I will leave this world with a shout !!! as the song says.  AGAIN, the spiritual lessons are obvious.  Pack your bags, get your ticket, be ready for HE'S COMING, HE'S COMING !!! And are you ready???

But first friend, you must be saved, you must be born again, you must accept Christ as your personal Lord and Savior.  Then and only Then will you be ready for his return. see Romans 10:13, John 3:16, Proverbs 3:5, John 3:36, Romans 5:8-9 . . .
The song says " Coming again, coming again, it may be morning or it may be noon, it may be night or it may be soon.  Jesus is coming again !!!

(There are many songs written about the return of Jesus, from the Red Church Hymn book, "When Jesus comes in the clouds", another song is " Some golden day break Jesus will come" and Southern Gospel group, the Inspirations sung, "Jesus is coming soon" ) Gold City quartet song " the mid-night cry" when Jesus comes again.)  And there are Moives too.

God Bless you neighbor, God loves you, please be ready,
Rev. Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com

A spirit led Mother

Proverbs 1:7-9

⁷ The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
⁸ My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
⁹ For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.

Sometimes, Moms lead the way spiritually.  I've seen this time and time again.  And praise the Lord for a God fearing, God honoring and spirit led Mom !!!  Many  families will go through a spiritual down time.  Dad gets down, of course that's who the devil tries to wear down, and many get in the what's the use mode.  Before you know it the whole family is down and not going to church.  We see this all to often.  Then the Holy Spirit will work on Mom.  She knows what's right, she knows what to do.  She knows at-least-get-back-God.  Dad knows about this too.  But he is reluctant to do anything and prideful.  God will work on her heart and she will get ready then go to church on Sunday.  Dad will agree within himself and go with her.  A great thing to see, at least for me, is to see a praying Mother.  I've seen a Mom pray for her husband what seem like every Sunday, then He got back in church.  Later he would work in the Bus ministry and was called to preach, then later, pastored a church.  Thank God for a praying MOM !!! 
So it was for my family.  Dad was a son of a preacher and Mom was a daughter of a preacher.  They both knew that they needed to be in church and that they needed to have their children in church.  My Mom was a nurse and she had a christian co-worker.  Who believed in God and attended church weekly.  She invited my Mom to church.  She went and carried my sister with her.  Then my brothers and I.   And Dad finally got in, too.
It's years later now, and my wife and I were just reflecting on my families past.  One of my brother became a minister, the other was ordained as a deacon and works in the children ministry.  My sister became a Sunday school teacher and then married and her husband became a deacon.  Two nephews were called to preach and nieces are church workers and in church.   Praise the Lord for a spirit led Mom !!! 
Praise the Lord for the Christian ladies who has kept the faith and stayed with GOD.  Heaven will truly reveal your rewards for following God.
But dear friend, you have to be saved, born again, see John chap 3. in the bible.  You have to be saved for God to put his love in your heart. For whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. see Romans 10:13.  Also, Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart, proverbs 3;5

God Bless you neighbor,
Rev. Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com

I wish I could preach that

Psa. 119:172 My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.

At my first church that I pastored, in the 1990s, we would work with Missionaries to financially and prayerfully support them.  In the day, we had 25 missionaries that we supported for 25 dollars a month.  (that was the going rate back then, but it worked)  I later found that most missionaries said they would rather have a bunch of small churches with small but consistent support. It was a great time with a GREAT blessing to our church and me.  We would have "MISSION SUNDAY"  where we would have Missionaries teach our Sunday school classes and one would teach "FAITH PROMISE GIVING" in the sanctuary class for the adults.  Then we would have lunch & dinner with the missionaries.  It was really a GREAT TIME!!!   I remember in my home church, the 3 & 4 year old Sunday school teacher would have "Mr. Missionary"  And the children were taught to give their quarters, nickels, dimes and pennies to Mr. Missionary. What a great life lesson.  One of the young preacher boys was Mr. Missionary and he became a missionary and now is pastoring a church.  ;-)  Great times and great memories !!!
    On one particular Mission Sunday a missionary stood and spoke to our congregation about missions.  He was and still is a missionary to Indonesia, but He shared his heart and said sometimes I will prepare a sermon in English and I will wish I could preach that in Indonesian and sometimes I prepare a sermon in Indonesian and I wish I could preach that in English.  He said that with a tear in his eye and brokeness in his voice.  I thought what a statement, what a great love !!!  Especially for his people and for the Lord.  A desire to preach and share the gospel message in English and another language.

 The 1980s and 1990s  were great times, for we were in Bible college together the 80s. And then became Pastors and Missionaries in the 90s. Truly we were laborers together with God !!!

Dear Christian friend, we need to be about our Father's business.  Go ye into All the world and preach the Gospel.  I am thankful for technology that allows preacher boys like me to share the gospel on the WORLD WIDE WEB, (www)  literally fulfilling Gods word to go into all the world. 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only son, that whosoever believes in him shall perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16

God bless you neighbor,
Rev. Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com

   

Turn on your light

I started out early one morning, right at day light time.   I notice that a driver decided NOT to have his head lights turned on that morning,   Which I was rather concerned and wondered why the gentleman did not have his lights on.  As usual,  I was in my pickup truck, where I seem to meet God, there alot.  And I heard that still small voice there in my Ford 150 Pickup.  Anyway, God moved on my heart and mind.  How many Christians do not let their light so shine.  In this day and time that we live in, The redeem of the Lord needs to stand and say so.  We need to stand and be a testimony to a lost and dying world.   We need stand let the unchurched and lost man see how God is working in our lives.  Let's learn from the lampstand.  The lampstand has a wick and oil.  The oil fuels the wick.  As the oil works through the wick, then light becomes so bright.  To the bible student, oil is a type of the Holy Spirit.  As the spirit of God moves on us, He helps us to shine, sing, shout and serve.  The energy of the flesh will fail you and make you burn out quick.  A wick with out oil.  And cannot shine, serve or shout.  The spirit of God  moves and energies us. We need to shine to the lost world.  They need to hear and see His love in us. They need to see our work of faith and labor of love. 

The song in the Red Back hymnal says, "be a light, be a light, be a light for Jesus everyday, Be a light, be a bright shining light, be a light for Jesus everyday".  But first friend YOU have to be saved, born again.  Ye must be born again !!!  For the grace of God  brings salvation.   Call on the name of the Lord Rom 10:13

God Bless you neighbor, LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE !!!

Rev. Daniel Samples
revdansam@gmail.com