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AdvancedMinistry Some people don’t like quiet…whether driving somewhere or working around the house, they have to have some noise, like a radio on or the TV playing.  Nowadays with the inventions of the iPhone and iPod people carry their favorite tunes or sermons everywhere they go.  (Did ya get that?  I said “sermons.”)  While on occasion, I like my quietude, I do often click on the car radio when I am in route from place to place.  This past week I heard one of my favorite preacher/teachers, Dr. Charles Stanley on my way to the church office.  He made a statement that arrested my attention.  He said, “God loves dirty Bibles.”  He went on to clarify, “Not the kind that get dirty by neglect, but they kind that are soiled from your hands and from your tears as you read its pages.”  Start a conversation on Bible versions and I promise you there will be no shortage of opinions.  I am afraid that our approach to the Holy Scriptures has become much like that of the search for the preferred worship service in that we seek answers to numerous questions.  Although, there is one question that is often omitted:  “What does God think?”  Let me ask you something, do you like it when people take what you have said and repeat it in a manner that does not convey your original statement?  Me neither and I really believe it doesn’t make God happy either.  Having a literal translation is important, however, I am of the opinion that an inferior version obeyed is better than a literal version ignored.  Your Bible tells a story.  You may say, “I know that Pastor, it’s the greatest story ever told, the gospel.”  That’s not what I am referring to.  Your Bible tells of quiet moments when God spoke to your heart and you were in need of that particular Psalm or passage with which He reassured you.  The frayed edges and the salty tear stains mark the path you have walked with Him at your side.   Writing My Story, Bro. David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=34432 34432 Sun, 20 May 2012 06:36:00 +0000 The cover of the magazine promoted an article within entitled “The Pursuit ofHappiness.” I was curious as to the opinion of the secular writing and decided to readit. The author began with the words, “Happiness, we’re all chasing it.” The jist of thearticle was: Psychologists believe that a person’s happiness is greatly predeterminedby personality traits and inherited genes. Some, they say, are geared toward optimismwhile others cope better with something called “defensive pessimism” (a type of worry inadvance so you stay ahead of problems). I found it intriguing that the article ultimatelyrevealed the secret to happiness is in relationships and other-mindedness. A GallupHealthways index lists the California city of San Luis Obispo as the happiest communityin the United States. It has been said that this title is their’s due to local leadershipfocusing on policies that favor interaction and the meeting of people. For example, thereare no drive-ins at their fast food restaurants. I found it very interesting that researchalso disclosed that attending church was high on the list of activities that happy peopledo. An experiment was conducted in which people were given $5 and $20 and told theycould choose to give it away to others or buy something for themselves. The resultsshowed the people who gave it away or bought something for someone else expressedgreater happiness than those who splurged on themselves. I confess that I tend to readsuch material with a bit of a bias as I always compare the philosophical thought to theBible. In this case, I found it interesting, that the secular findings were very close towhat Jesus taught us to do. The one element left out of the article was that the first andmost important relationship for happiness is that one with God Himself. Psalm 146:5-“Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD hisGod.” Happy in Christ, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=34088 34088 Sun, 6 May 2012 06:30:00 +0000 Yes, it is more blessed to give than to receive. However, when it comes to the topic I am addressing today, I hope that we, as Christians do less giving than receiving. Thematter that I am speaking of is “rudeness.” Maybe I am wrong, but rudeness seems tobe sweeping our country in epidemic proportions. Perhaps we are simply experiencingthe offshoot of a society saturated in decades of “Me First” philosophical thought. Needsome examples? Let me introduce you to the Diner Dasher- Recently I took my wifeand daughter to lunch at a restaurant on Hwy 287. I opened and held the door for Gayleand Amanda to enter. My daughter walked through first, then suddenly like a fullbackhitting the open hole in the line of scrimmage a young man swept in front of my wifemaking his way into the diner. Then there is the Bumper Bumper (maybe you know thisguy). I see him or one of his near relatives every morning in the DFW traffic, but theydon’t see me, or at least, they don’t want you to know they do. We usually meet up atthe end of a merge lane or in the final feet of an interstate exit. These drivers are skilledin not only avoiding eye contact (apparently an unwritten rule- if they don’t look at you,they don’t have to let you in) but also in closing the gap between their bumper and thevehicle in front of them so tightly that a gnat couldn’t squeeze in there. Last week oneof our church members was involved in a head-on automobile accident. A man pulledin front of her and totaled her car. The perpetrator got out of his vehicle talking on hiscell phone, and never bothered to go over and check on the person he hit. Thankfully shesuffered only bruises and scrapes after encountering Mr. It’s all about “i” Phone. Let usexemplify a grateful heart in an ungrateful world and remember an old acronym for JOY-Jesus, Others, You. Don’t forget to do unto others as you would have them do unto you.It’s the Jesus way! i See You, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=34087 34087 Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:55:00 +0000 If you have ever journeyed through the mountains you know the route consists of brief moments at the peaks and long stretches between.  We come to expect those low spots or valleys as we travel through the hills.  Life seems to parallel this type of trip from time to time and it seems to leave us in the valley much longer than on the mountain tops, doesn’t it?  Although we know this is par for the course in our earthly lives, we are still, periodically caught by surprise when bad things happen to good people.  Maybe you woke up one day this week and found yourself in one of those down times.  Here are a few things you can do:  1) Remember you are not alone.  Not only is God with you but others have traveled that way too.   Read Hebrews 4:15 and realize Jesus can relate.  2) Seek encouragement in the Lord- David experienced a major valley recorded in 1 Samuel 30:6 “And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.”  Read I Peter 5:7 and cast your cares on Him.  3) Expect God to bring you through the valley- Remember that tribulations produce patience, patience produces experience and experience brings hope.  See Romans 5:3-4.and Psalm 42:5.  4) Trust God’s plan.  This is easier said than done, but we must believe that God has a plan that is far greater than our own.  “We see through a glass darkly”, Paul said (I Corinthians 13:12), but then face to face.”  Sometimes the fog is thickest in the valley and we can not see the next mountain top.  It is then we must trust the heart and hand of Heart.  If you happen to be in that blinding mist today, it wouldn’t hurt to seek out a brother or sister in Christ and have them pray with you.  May God bless you as you rely on Him and progress through the valley.    Keeping an Eye Out for theNextMountain, Bro David  http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=33534 33534 Sun, 15 Apr 2012 06:30:00 +0000 Easter- Awe the memories!  Baskets, bonnets and bowties fill the family photo album.  A stroll down memory lane brings a chuckle or two as we contemplate how we could have ever gone out in public like that.  Perhaps you share with me the distinction of growing up in the 60’s and 70’s.  If so, you would know it was an era when fashion was no doubt heavily influenced by druggie designers (haha).  We went from pencil narrow ties to those wider than our midsection, and from straight leg pants to hip hugger bell bottoms.  If the wind caught the lapels on our suit coats back then, “I’ll Fly Away” became more than a song.   They say that fashion repeats itself every twenty to thirty years.  It’s true ya know.  It wasn’t too long ago that I noticed my children buying clothing that resembled the garb of my youth.  Man, if I’d only kept a couple of those psychedelic, silky, polyester shirts!  There is one fashion icon that seems to have escaped the retro revival however---the Leisure Suit.  Ain’t God good?  When I was a child our family celebrated Resurrection Sunday with bright clothes, new shoes and big hair (I’m talking’ the kind that needed a flashing light for aircraft warning).   Seriously, I was blessed to have parents that took me to church every week, even if they did let me dress kinda goofy.   I was also blessed in that I grew up in a church that taught us that Easter wasn’t all about chocolate bunnies.   As you make your Easter memories, be sure to share with others that victory for living is not found in our having a full basket, but rather in our having an empty tomb.  One more thing before I close…a prayer request…pray the leisure suit doesn’t make a comeback.    Have a Blessed Easter, BroDavid http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=33350 33350 Sun, 8 Apr 2012 09:58:00 +0000 Welcome to Youth Day 2012!   I once heard it said that, “The youth of today are the church of tomorrow” to which I responded, “WRONG!  They are a vital part of the church of today!”  This morning the youth (teenagers) of our church will be leading our music and serving as ushers and our Youth Pastor, Bro Aaron McNeil, will be bringing the message.  While every generation differs from the previous, this up and coming generation is unique and marvelous indeed.   Instead of having just a few friends they speak with face to face at school, they have hundreds of friends they connect with via a virtual group called Facebook.  Technology isn’t something they have had to adapt to.  It has been all they have known from their birth.  Each generation has its influencers that help shape their ideologies:  neighbors, education, media- like radio and television, the computer and of course, church.  Parents sometimes erroneously think they are the most influential factor in their child’s life.  Studies show that that title belongs to your children’s friends. Youth have an insatiable desire to be accepted by their peers.  This peer-pressure often results in behavior contrary to that which is taught by their parents and Sunday School teachers.   Still, it is important to teach the truth, otherwise they will have no way of recognizing the wrong.  “For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations (Psalm 100:5).   The humanistic doctrine of “No Absolute truth” has done its best to infect the minds of today’s American family.  I have great hope in this up and coming generation that they have already recognized the fallacies of such ridiculous teachings and have begun not only a search for the truth but a demand for it.  They want definition!  I am proud of our teenagers and I pray they will stand tall for the Lord in a world that desperately needs to know Him.    An Avid Fan of Our Youth, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=32920 32920 Sun, 25 Mar 2012 08:07:00 +0000 My wife recently bought me a book entitled The Timeless Writings of C.S. Lewis.   Clive Staples Lewis was born in Belfast Ireland and lived from 1898 to 1963.  He was an English professor at Oxford, a novelist, a poet and a Christian philosophical genius.   He did not come to know the Lord until 1929.  It was, in my opinion, those early years as a non-believer that made him in his latter years, such a dynamic apologist (defender of the Christian faith).   Among his most famous writings are The Chronicles of Narnia and the Screwtape Letters.   As I was skimming through the book my wife had purchased for me, I came across a section with the title “Answers to Questions on Christianity.”  One question in particular caught my eye- Lewis had been asked, “Which of the religions of the world gives to its followers the greatest happiness?”  While the question was intriguing, the answer he gave, I must admit, shocked me.  I was expecting some thick, insightful, intellectual jargon in which he would wax philosophical about the true meaning of happiness…instead I read this simple remark:  “While it lasts, the religion of worshipping one’s self.”  WHAT???? He went on to describe an acquaintance of his who had lived a life of unbroken selfishness and self-admiration; he called him “the happiest man I know.”  The key to his answer is of course in the first three words, “while it lasts.”  Jesus taught a parable (recorded in Luke 12:16-20) about a rich man who was so successful he had no where to store his goods, so he decided he would tear down his barns and build bigger barns.  Yet, the time came in which God said, “This night thy soul shall be required of thee.”  While there is peace and joy to be found in the Christian life, we must confess it is rather difficult at times.  It is a journey filled with self-denial and the ongoing discipline of our natural desires.  Jesus challenged His followers to beware of covetousness (AKA Self-indulgence) and labor to lay up treasures in Heaven.     With the Future in Mind, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=32707 32707 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 07:00:00 +0000 It was about twelve years ago, when Gayle and I first signed up our son for T-Ball.  We had a concrete patio in the back yard that provided the perfect training ground for stopping grounders.  I showed him how to get in front of the ball and to drop to one knee.  I whirled tennis balls (much safer than baseballs, you can ask his older sisters about that, sorry girls) at him, one after another.  We worked on which foot to step with when you throw and which hand the glove goes on.  Some of you have been there, huh?    I had the privilege of being my son’s coach during those early years and helping children learn how to hit the ball and run the bases.  This is easier said than done as there is something inside T-Ballers that makes them want to run to third directly from home (I’m still puzzled by this).  I have also seen the benefit of fundamentals taught to my daughters as they cheered and played sports, much like you may have experienced yourself.  Today, during the organization of our T-Ball ministry and the continuing of our building a congregation, I am reminded of the importance of getting back to the basics.  Jesus sent a message to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2:5 and said “…do the first works.”  So then, what are the basics of the Christian life?  I find that the repetition of two actions would prove to be most advantageous to us:  1) Inquire of the Lord - Pray and 2) Invite people to hear of the Lord.  If we will work at personal prayer and regularly invite others to our church, great things will happen.  A wonderful example of this is found in John 4, in the story of the woman at the well.  She spends a while talking with the Lord, then goes to the city and exclaims, “Come see a man that told me all things…is not this the Christ.”  When the people came, many believed on Jesus!    Let’s Remember to Run to First, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=32507 32507 Sun, 11 Mar 2012 06:30:00 +0000 It is usually not our favorite thing to do. Some of our temperaments are better suited for it than others.  For some it can be quite irritating.  I am referring to that thing we do when we can not do anything, “we wait.”  It is part of life isn’t it?  Institutions like hospitals and doctor’s offices provide comfortable, dedicated portions of their facilities and they even label the areas with the inactivity that occurs therein, “The Waiting Room.”    It seems that we handle an expected wait better than an unexpected, don’t you think?  For instance, we might patiently pass the time in a crowded foyer of our preferred restaurant waiting for our party to be seated, yet grow increasingly impatient at the Wal-mart when our check-out line stops moving.   Let me help you with this, look for me, if I am in the line, choose a different one!  The one I’m standing in is most likely going to experience a computer malfunction, a price check item or a brand new cashier still trying to find their first bar code.  Why do people struggle with this subject?  I think the answer may be twofold:  1) We tend to view waiting as non-productive, and in a success driven society it’s an interruption to our goals 2) Waiting often makes us wonder if we have been forgotten.  Could it be that our name was skipped over or we have not been recognized?  These feelings are true when we find ourselves waiting on God also.   We fail to recognize that God uses the down time to make us stronger and draw us closer to Him, and that He loves us far too much to ever forget us.   This past week my 16 yr old son received an allograft (meniscus transplant) and an osteotomy (re-alignment) in his right leg.  He had been on the waiting list five months.  On the way to surgery he shared with me five important life lessons he learned during this wait. He said they all begin with “P”- Priorities- get them right with God, Persistence in Prayer- it really does work, Purpose- God has a purpose, trust Him, Pride- no matter how big you are you can be humbled, Patience- God is at work.   “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.” Psalm 27:14   Learning to be More Comfortable When in the Waiting Room, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=32287 32287 Sun, 4 Mar 2012 06:00:00 +0000 This past week my wife and I were having lunch at one of her favorite deli places.  Personally, I don’t think a place is a legitimate restaurant if they don’t serve fries, but that’s another story.  While I was waiting on her to finish her salad (she’s a slow eater), I fell back on an ol’ past time…people watching.  The ice cream dispenser was in clear view and for quality entertainment I needed to look no further.  I beheld as some Dairy Queen employee wannabes filled their cones with a dramatic drop and a sudden rise ending with a slight twist to produce that coveted curl.  Others were performing miracles by piling on much more than the capacity those tiny cups allow, then heaping on chocolate and shaved almonds.  What are those little cups all about anyway? This is not communion, it’s free ice cream!  It wasn’t long before the experts arrived at the machine.  I am referring to those who realize the small containers and cones are only suggestions and life is better when you use a coffee cup or a dessert plate.  I admit I’m a coffee cup kinda guy.  I may not have invented the root beer float, but I’ve perfected it.  It is also interesting to watch which ice cream people choose.  Do they like vanilla, chocolate or do they prefer the blend?  It’s a little like the church music ministry, huh?  Strangely, some like a blend but don’t accept the offered ratio.  They will pile on one flavor then switch to the other- disregarding the convenience of the twisty lever.  Oh well, to each his own! Right?   Jesus is a “people watcher” too ya know?   Mark 12:41 tells us “And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.”  You probably remember that Jesus also watched as a widow gave all she had (two mites).  A mite is a piece of brass money and her offering didn’t quite total a penny.  Yet Jesus said it was more than all the others had given.   I am certain many who made a trip to the ice cream machine the other day had no clue they were being observed.  I wonder if we who gather for worship today realize it?   Watching for the One Who is Watching Us, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=32027 32027 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0000 One day I am going to buy a sailboat and name it the Phone, so when people call the office my secretary will say, “He’s not available right now, he’s on the Phone.”  The way I speak of sailing some might think my experiences are numerous.  Not so…my sailing adventures total, uhhm…one.  Many years ago now (approximately 22 yrs) while I was pastoring in Australia, a man in my church invited me to go sailing.  The forty foot steel yacht belonged to his dad, who by the way was not saved.  He told me of his master plan. “I figured you could witness to him while on board,” he said, “After all, where could he go?”  About two and a half hours south of Sydney on the south coast of New South Wales is a pristine, Caribbean looking body of water called Jarvis Bay.  The sleek vessel sat offshore and had to be boarded by use of an inflatable raft.  Once on board I was given a tour of the magnificent craft by its’ owner/captain along with instructions, “Everybody works on a sailboat,” I was told.  “Fair enough,” I replied and picked up a scrub brush.  The captain announced, “We’ll begin by motoring around the bay,” and then added, “The weather report said a Nor’easter was expected about noon.”  In between cleaning the galley and swabbing the deck I had a chance to sit and talk with the captain.  He was a hardened, successful business man who proved a very difficult soul to catch.   He was a man of logic and reason who struggled with saving faith.  As we putted around with sagging sails hoisted, waiting on the wind, I tried every possible way to bring my new friend to Christ.  Then suddenly (I can still hear the sound) those sails popped as they filled with the long awaited wind.  The engine was cut and the heavy steel hull lifted high in the water and began skimming across the surface like a smooth rock tossed across a flat lake.   The report was accurate and the power to drive the boat to her destination had arrived.  It made for a fitting illustration of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the accuracy of the Bible’s report, but sadly to no avail.  It was one of the most memorable days of my life, but perhaps not for reasons you might think.  I will never forget the grace of the dolphins as they bumped our boat as we sailed or the beauty of the bay itself.  Nor will I ever get over the rush I felt when those sails filled with air or the thrill of holding the helm.  But that day will always be remembered as the day another lost soul got away.    Fisherman Dave http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=31832 31832 Sun, 19 Feb 2012 06:05:00 +0000 I like the old story of the elderly fisherman named John.  He would return to the dock daily with hundreds of fish.  One day the Fish and Game Warden decided he would accompany John and learn his secret.  While motoring to the site the officer bombarded John with numerous questions, John just stared ahead in silence.  Reaching his destination John lit a stick of dynamite and tossed it overboard.  The Warden couldn’t believe his eyes.  He yelled, “YOU CAN’T DO THAT, THAT’S ILLEGAL!”  Without a pause or change in facial expression John lit another, handed it to the Warden and said, “Are you gonna fish or talk?”  Americans spend approximately $100 Billion dollars a year on the sport of fishing.  There are a variety of fancies when it comes to fishin’…Some prefer the thrill of landing a 1000 lb marlin while cruising off shore, while others are in their element standing in the solitude of a frigid mountain stream casting a fly at an elusive brown trout.  One thing that every fisherman has in common however is: they have to “GO” where the fish are; the fish are not going to come to us!  Some plan their fishin’ trip well in advance, reserve charter boats and study all the latest lures.  Others head to the local lake and fish at the drop of a hat.  They will even drop the hat!  When Jesus told His disciples He would make them “Fishers of men” these analogies of diverse methods, readiness to go, cost involved and dedication to the cause would have all gone through their minds.  Our theme this year in our Missions Emphasis month (February) is “Sailing for Souls.”  Our Faith Promise Offering is how we will fund the global fishing trip for souls this year.   Using a Gospel Net, Not Dynamite, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=31831 31831 Sun, 12 Feb 2012 17:53:00 +0000 If you were underprivileged growing up like I was, then you will understand.  Let me explain, when I say “underprivileged” I do not mean that I ever went without food or clothes, a roof over my head or a quality education.  God blessed our home and my parents were great providers.  I am referring however, to the fact that I am one of the unfortunate people in this world raised in a town with no HOV lane.  I know you may find that hard to believe, but ‘tis true.  These archaic cities still exist in parts of our country.  When I was first introduced to the High Occupancy Vehicle phenomenon I thought the initials must stand for Happier Other Vehicles.  This past week we had to travel north of Dallas during the undesirable 5 to 6 pm rush hour.  Before you break out the Kleenex with empathetic tears, please note I said, “WE.”   My wife was traveling with me.  You know what that means, I qualified for the HOV!  YES, the HOV!  I do not know exactly how many cars we passed; I would guestimate close to a billion.   I am ashamed to admit it, but as I zoomed past those emblazoned brake lights, I confessed to my wife that I was feeling rather unspiritual and was fighting the desire to lower my window and shout “Na-na-na-na-nah.”  Now don’t act like that thought has never crossed your mind. She was quick to bring me back to reality with this statement: “If it weren’t for me being with you, you’d be over there going nowhere too.”  How long she had kept that saying in reserve I can not say.  While it did not keep me from enjoying the progress I was making, it did make me consider all those traveling through life without Jesus.  Point to ponder:  Were it not for Him being with us, where would we be?    Making Progress with Jesus,Bro David PS: Disclaimer: The Dallas Police require the second passenger to be visible; telling them you have Jesus traveling with you, may result in large fines.   http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=31262 31262 Sun, 29 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000 It was nearly twenty years ago now.  I was pastoring an island church off the Eastern Shore of Virginia.  We had the privilege of bringing in a special guest who taught a personality temperament seminar to our church.  The information I received during those days changed my ministry, changed my life.   He described a couple of personality types as being “people persons” while two others he noted “could live with people or without them just as easily.”   When “people persons” are home alone, they usually have the TV on in one room, the radio or CD playing in another and/or they are talking on the phone or socializing on Facebook (or perhaps all of the above simultaneously).   The non-people people tend to enjoy quiet solitude.  We all have a propensity to think that people who are different from us are wrong, when in fact, they’re just different.   Okay, some are REALLY different, huh?  Our personality strengths and weaknesses have a tendency to influence the way we process Scripture.   For instance, read the following verse:  Zephaniah 3:17 - The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in his love, He will joy over thee with singing.  After reading this passage, some will immediately experience comfort by knowing God is in their midst.  Others will feel relieved of a few ulcerating worries when they hear that God is dependable, He is Mighty and will save.   Those who by nature wrestle with God’s opinion of them, will take heart in knowing that He rejoices over us and is even said to sing over us!   WOW we make Him sing!  Listening for the Melody,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=31261 31261 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000   My wife said, “You’re addicted.”  According to the dictionary a person is said to be addicted when they “devote or surrender (oneself) to something habitually or obsessively.”  She was referring to my stopping by that place where they sell the coffee.  You know the one whose name begins with what lights up the sky at night (star) and ends with what you better have several of when ordering a cup (bucks).  A few weeks ago when traveling from Florida, I ordered my favorite blend while at the airport, white chocolate mocha.  I was shocked to hear, “We’re all out of that.”   What?  That can’t be!  I was quick to remind them that everything is better in Texas and that we had a bounty of it over here.  Uh, that is until this past week, when the shortage reached the Metroplex. “Manufacturing problems” I was told.   This past Wednesday morning I went by a small, rather unknown location of the franchise, approached the counter and said, “Tell me sir, hast thou any white chocolate mocha back there?” With a smile on his face, Dave (my new best friend), said, “We’ve got plenty man!”  The locale will remain secret for obvious reasons.  Okay, I admit it, I am fond of the beverage, but addicted?  I don’t think so.  Anyway, aren’t we supposed to pull the beam out of our own eye before we pull the mocha out of our brother’s? (taken from the DPV).  Seriously now, I trust you are forming and practicing some good habits this year, like reading your Bible and praying everyday.  Remember the example of Steve’s family: “I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)” 1 Corinthians 16:15 Believing White Chocolate Mocha to be the Preferred Beverage at the Marriage Supper,Bro David(I have no Scriptural reference for the above opinion) http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=30855 30855 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000 Have you seen the humorous insurance commercial on television where the guy plays the part of a GPS that was never updated and thus creates mayhem by crashing the driver into another vehicle? Today many automobiles come equipped with the directional device and all smart phones have an app that will serve as your guide.   I am fascinated by the little tool.  While traveling to and from Florida earlier this month I kept my phone keyed in on my destination.  It’s a simple route and only involves a few streets, but I like to know how much progress I am making.  For reasons unbeknown to me, occasionally the lady inside my phone would instruct us to travel a road that would have been out of the way.  Because we were familiar with the route, we chose to ignore the eloquent, soft spoken wayward command.  When we did so, we would hear that infamous term “Recalculating.”   We have only recently embarked on our life’s journey into 2012.  It is a great time for us to measure our spiritual progress and familiarize ourselves with the way of God.  The more knowledgeable we are of His way, the more adept we will be at recognizing incorrect directions.  Let me encourage you to set your destination for spiritual growth and keep track of your progress.  If you will let the Lord be your guide, there will be no need for recalculating.     Following the Voice of Many Waters, (Revelation 19:6)Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=30587 30587 Sun, 8 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000 Some go through a training class at the YMCA, some learn in their neighbor’s pool or a nearby lake.  Maybe someone taught you the hard way, being thrown into deep water as a family member watched you strive to survive and thus learn the dog paddle.  Swimming, I do not recall exactly when I learned to travel through the wet stuff, but I do remember a summer course on swimming my parents sent me to.  It was sponsored by my elementary school.  I already knew how to swim and to this day I am puzzled as to why they would send me every day for several weeks away from them, hmmmm?  Our instructor informed us that we must pass each stage in order to progress and eventually be awarded the certificate of completion.  The first stage was easy- you just hold your breath and dunk your head beneath the surface multiple times.  NO WORRIES!  The next stage was “Floating.”  A stage I remember ohhhh too well.  My physic as a little boy had a great deal in common with a number 2 pencil.  Each time I tried to remain atop the water, I sunk like a stick with the rhythm of a pendulum.  Several days I stayed at that phase.  I tried telling the teacher that I could swim and this floating thing was for sissies (no offense to the buoyant population).  After all I said, “This is a class on swimming not floating, isn’t it?  Eventually, I got the instructor’s attention, ran down the dock jumped into the deep water, and swam back to her.  I am not sure if she passed me due to my dolphin like prowess or because she was tired of dealing with me.  The moral of the story:  you can’t be afraid of the deep and progress!  So it is with our church.  Let me encourage you to launch out into the deep this year.  Enjoy the depths of God’s love and the riches of His Word.  Time to Quit Floating,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=30586 30586 Sun, 1 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000 Christmas traditions give us a warm and fuzzy feeling, don’t you think?  Something within all of us likes to cozy up to the customary.  I guess it helps us feel grounded and provides us with a sense of belongingness.  Traditions often stimulate our memory and transport us back in time while stirring our emotions (could be good or bad, huh?).  There is however something I have noticed about the routine, it is only temporary; it doesn’t always remain, does it?  The norm isn’t always normal.  Whether it’s the celebratory manner in which you decorate the tree with family, the splendor of the Christmas Day meal or even the time and place you gather with relatives, traditions have a way of changing.   This Christmas some of our loved ones are enjoying the Birthday Party with Jesus Himself in Heaven and that of course, brings about a difference here on earth for us.  Others have experienced trauma of a different sort, like health issues, financial woes through job loss, while some have suffered the heart wrenching effects of divorce.  All of these tend to throw a damper on the joys of our Christmas traditions.  If you have been faced with such difficulties and struggle with the joy of Christmas I have three words for you:  “START NEW TRADITIONS.”  Every tradition had a beginning, so begin some new ones!  Think about that very first Christmas.  There were no traditions then, were there?  Jesus, the Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us.  How new all of this must have been to Mary, to Joseph, to the world and let’s not forget to Heaven itself.   Treat your traditions like a new pair of Christmas slippers…when they cease to provide warmth and comfort, get some new ones!  Thankfully, Jesus is the Same,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=30585 30585 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000 It’s Christmas morning and the kids rush in…first you gather together to offer thanks to God for His Son (It is His Birthday ya know?).  Then it starts:  Lovingly wrapped packages are ripped from their hiding place and the carefully tied bows are recklessly thrown into the air.  The sound of ooh’s and awe’s fill the room as the secret identities of gifts are revealed.  As the latest electronic thingy-ma-bob emerges from its colorful paper cocoon, you watch as elation comes upon the recipient’s face, and then…you hear the little voice in your head say, “Uh.-You forgot the batteries.”  You scurry to the catch-all drawer in the kitchen where you find old birthday cake candles, stray clothes pins (currently serving as potato chip bag clasps), and seven hundred and fifty-three bread ties, but no abandoned double A’s.   Disappointment quickly sets in.  You dash on to the secondary abode of the coveted power source, the dining room buffet drawer- there you find false hope as you discover a couple of C’s and one D battery, but no AA’s abide therein.  Reality overcomes you.  You did your research, you got up early, stood in line for hours and rejoiced in your conquest as you purchased the most desired gift on the market, but it can not be enjoyed, at least not today.   Unfortunately this story serves as a real life allegory of families everywhere who seem to have it all but lack the power source to truly enjoy life.  Life without Jesus is like a Major Matt Mason (astronaut, circa 1966) Moon Crawler without batteries.  It may look cool, but it won’t function!  Keep plugged in to Jesus this Christmas and let Him bring life to life!  Have a Very Merry Christmas,Pastor Dave (Circa 1962) http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=30584 30584 Sun, 18 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000 “He hath hedged me about, that I cannot get out…” Lamentations 3:7  If you are a member of the Bible reading club this verse of Scripture may sound familiar.  It was part of our prescribed reading this past week.  The Book of Lamentations was written by the Prophet Jeremiah.  In it he explains that the captivity of the Jewish people in Babylon was the consequence of their unrepentant sin.  While not all of our calamities are caused by sin in our lives, we would be wise to consider that many are.  Back in the day (Old Testament days that is) the “hedge” served as fence that enclosed a field.  It actually served two purposes:  1) to keep the unwanted beasts out and 2) to retain the animals you wanted to keep from roaming the wild.  When the Lord places a hedge about us, we often feel trapped rather than protected.  This is no doubt due to the fact that we do not like being told “no” or feeling restrained.  The truth is that we are not only being sheltered from that which can cause us much harm, but we are at times, also being protected from ourselves.   There are times that our Heavenly Father knows that we would endanger ourselves if we were not on occasion hedged in.   Perhaps He said “no” to a prayer request of yours and it has frustrated you.  Maybe, just maybe He was protecting you.  We must rest in knowing that He is a loving God and knows how to give good things to His own.  That being said…He knows how to keep us from the dangerous things as well. Let us learn to look at the hedge as a safe haven.  My Own Enemy at Times,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=30583 30583 Sun, 11 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Did you hear the news?  This past week an attorney sent a letter to the Independent School District of Ft Worth stating that the exchange of Christmas gifts has been banned.  “We have people of different races and religions and to them this particular time of year may not be celebratory,” school district spokesman Clint Bond told Fox News. “Because of their religious beliefs, they may not choose to celebrate anything at this time of year.”  WHAT? ARE YOU SERIOUS????  What about all of the families in Ft Worth who do celebrate Christmas?  Once again we are seeing “Political Correctness” robbing American families of their freedom.  Residents in Ft Worth should stand up to this travesty and be heard!  I first heard about this today on the radio and I was shocked.  The reporter quoted a representative of the ISD as having said, “The children are still allowed to wish one another Merry Christmas.”  WHAT? “Still allowed”?  It is time for Christians to speak up and push back against this anti-Jesus movement.  Freedom was endowed to us by our Creator, at least that is what the Declaration of Independence states…not granted to us by a government or school district’s attorney.  The timing of this latest attack could not be worse.  America should be crying out to God for His blessings, not telling Him we have no interest in Him or the birth of His Son. Planning to Write Some Letters and Make a Few Phone Calls,Bro. David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=29774 29774 Sun, 4 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000  Like Buddy from ELF with his infatuation with the name “Francisco,” some words are just more fun to say than others.  Try this one… “S-A-T-U-R-A-T-E-D.”  Now let’s use it in a couple of sentences: “I would like these mashed potatoes saturated in that gravy” or “Pumpkin pie should always be saturated in Redi-whip.”  You get the picture!  This past week we celebrated Thanksgiving in the Patrick household with yet another amazing meal prepared by my wonderful wife.  Usually, I’m only invited into the kitchen when there is a need for a repair, but this year I got to help with the turkey.  It was my job to see that the bird was bathed in the broth regularly to insure tenderness.  Being a Baptist preacher I admit I preferred immersion, but pouring was going to have to do.  As I became proficient in the culinary art of basting, I was reminded of the necessity to saturate ourselves daily in the Word of God.  If we do not do so, we are destined to become dry and hard hearted.  God would have us remain supple and tender hearted.  David the Psalmist encouraged this Biblical basting in Psalm 1:2 - “But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”  During the Holiday season it is easy to get sidetracked and forget to do the things that matter most.  So before you head to those early bird sales, saturate yourself in the Word of God.  Beneath the Flow,Chef David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=29638 29638 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000   “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:” Psalm 103:2   Some have difficulty remembering names, some numbers…then there are those of us who may forget where we lay things down.  I read somewhere (I can’t recall exactly where), when you put something down, pause a moment and let it register.  Good advice.  Anniversaries are all about remembering.  The word “anniversary” comes from a couple of Latin terms, annus meaning “year” and versus meaning “turn.”  Merriam Webster defines the word as an annual recurrence of a date marking a notable event.  Anniversaries provide us with not only a time to remember, but also an opportunity for us to educate others concerning major events in our life’s journey. This past week our nation observed Veteran’s Day, a special time for us to reflect on the sacrificial service of men and women who have helped provide and protect our freedom here in the United States of America.  “Thank you” to all our brave service men and women.  Today marks our Church’s 59th year of ministry.  Happy Anniversary!  When God was giving instructions for worshiping Him, He built in “memorials,” like the annual Passover Meal in the Old Testament and the “Lord’s Supper” in the New Testament.   He did not want us to forget how He delivers His people.   Some of us have a tendency to be like the John, an elderly man who took a memory course at the local college with his wife.  Having heard about the class, a neighbor of theirs asked John, “What was the name of the instructor of that memory course you took?” “Hmmmm”…John said, “Uh, what is that flower, you know--- the one that has the thorns on it?”  The neighbor said, “Rose?” “Yeah…Rose, what was the name of that instructor that taught our memory class?”  Remembering to Thank God for our Church,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=29185 29185 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000   “…Yeah; have ye never read, out of the mouths of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise.”  Matthew 21:16b The Holy Spirit reminded me this week that life doesn’t have to be as stressful as I sometimes allow it to become.   The revelation occurred this past Thursday evening around 6:30 pm at our first team practice since Halloween.   Temperatures had dropped and the chilly wind was blowing briskly.  My 3 to 5 year old YMCA Flag Football team was working diligently on the hand-off and sweeping run to the outside when one of our three year old running backs had a distant look in his eye.   I inquired to see if he was alright.  He paused a second, looked at me and said… “Coach, I just want to go home and eat candy.”  It became my favorite quote of the week and a subtle reminder to simplify.  I have read that the average attention span of a person usually coincides with their age until they reach about 20 (eg: You have about five minutes to teach a five year old).  Life has a way of spinning out of control and just maybe we need to follow the example of the little ones.   I am not suggesting we raid the children’s plastic pumpkins, but I am recommending we let some things go that seem to increase our stress.  With the Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, plan not to plan so much! Heading for the Left Over Smarties,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=29184 29184 Sun, 6 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”  Hebrews 13:2 My son DJ and I are volunteer coaches of a flag football team through the YMCA.  It’s a great way to meet new people and have an opportunity to share the love of Christ with some we wouldn’t have met otherwise.   Did I mention the players are 3 to 5 years old?  Did I mention you should be praying for your pastor?  Haha.  During one of our practices I was speaking with one of our dads and learned that he is a professional football player.  He has played in the NFL for approximately 10 years and is currently a free agent.  Wow…talk about pressure in coaching…thankfully what this age group plays resembles football very little!   You just never know who you might meet.  The Bible says that sometimes we even meet angels and do not know it.  While the above mentioned verse speaks of holy messengers of God, we need to make note that it is also possible to entertain evil angels that serve our adversary, the devil.  Let us exercise caution particularly in a time of the year when evil is exalted the way it is around Halloween.  Many of the movies and costumes displayed during this time promote an unholy atmosphere that should be avoided by Christians.   I want to encourage you to read Deuteronomy 18:9-12 for a clear view of God’s opinion of subjects usually associated with Halloween.   Be sure to pray for God’s protection of your family during this time also.  May God Bless You and Keep You Safe,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=28705 28705 Sun, 30 Oct 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Do you embrace change or resist it?  Do you desire it or avoid it like a plague?  Recently, it seems, I have been inundated with the subject of “change.”  While listening to the radio this past week I heard of a new sermon series on the subject designed to help people not only adjust to it but even desire change.  As a young preacher-boy (18 yrs old) I was working as an intern for my home church during Christmas break from college, when I heard my pastor say, “We don’t make changes around here. We make improvements.”  Neither my pastor nor I knew the impact that little statement would have in my life.  Not all change is improvement, but improvement does require change.  It would do us well to examine Proverbs 24:21, which reads:  “My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change.”  A study of the Hebrew words used here will reveal that the change mentioned in this verse is an “experimental alteration” and could be applied to both religion and government.  We must exercise discernment and assess whether or not we are simply altering something or actually improving it.  Allow me to illustrate it this way:  Imagine you have a dress or a suit that no longer fits you the way you desire.  So, you take that garment to a seamstress for alterations and emphasize a need for a change…only you do not express what is considered an improvement.  Let’s say you needed the item taken-in due to your recent loss of weight, but instead the tailor has let the seams out and made it bigger.   When you try the garment on you notice a change was made, but not an improvement.  Let us focus this week on avoiding experimental alterations and seek to make improvements in our relationship with God.  Looking to Improve,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=28409 28409 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Maybe you recognize the title of this blog as a catchy phrase used during ESPN’s Monday Night Football Countdown.  My son, DJ and I look forward to watching the segment together as the analysts show a series of “bonehead” plays made by athletes during the previous week.  The show highlights everything from missed passes that should have been caught to premature touchdown celebrations resulting in zero points.  The precipice for the telecast seems to be:  there are expectations that go along with those million dollar paychecks paid out to people who “play” for a living.  I have often wondered if we should have a church version of C’ Mon Man!  What do you think?  You know like…What? You forgot your tithe…C’ Mon Man! or, You missed Sunday School again?…C’ Mon Man!  or, maybe What?, You’re not singing…C’ Mon Man!  Most recently we could put Governor Rick Perry on our edition.   After hearing a comment made by Pastor Jeffress of First Baptist Church (Dallas), in which the Mormon Religion was called a “cult”, the Governor/ Presidential candidate said he did not agree with that assessment.  A cult by definition is a group that holds beliefs that are unorthodox.  Since Mormons believe “God had two sons, one named Jesus and one named Lucifer,” they hold views inconsistent with the mainstream of orthodox Christianity.  Pastor Jeffress was right and receives an “At-a-boy” while to Governor Perry we say… C’ Mon Man!!!!    What? You Don’t Like This Blog? ………….(you know)Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=28408 28408 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 06:00:00 +0000 I don’t think of myself as an “alarmist” or a paranoid negativist.  I normally try not to use this blog as a vehicle to vent.  However, at times I get the sense that sense isn’t gotten.  We live in a world that has promoted “Save the Whales and Kill the Children” and “Make sure the birds have a home, whether you do or not.”  I am well aware that spouting off political preferences can be rather divisive…and for that reason I have always tried to exercise discretion when making comments (unlike Hank Williams, Jr of Monday Night Football fame).  I am, however, becoming more and more concerned about the course that America has set sail on.  A little over 200 years ago the people on our continent vehemently disagreed with England, yet today we seem to be embracing the same ideology that has led to the moral and social decadence of our ancestral descendants across the sea.   England once held a Biblical perspective under the influence of great preachers like Spurgeon and the Wesley brothers.  What happened?  Little by little their worldview changed as they began to believe the answer was within their own wisdom.  The prophet’s words may well be applied:  Isaiah 5:20-21 - Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!  Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! Let us return to a worship of the Creator and to a Biblical view.  The one thing we have that England didn’t have…the example of England!    Seeking Help to Turn the Ship Around,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=28404 28404 Sun, 9 Oct 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Welcome to Friend Day 2011.  I recently came across this story and thought you might like reading it… [Charles Plumb was a U.S. Navy jet pilot in Vietnam. After 75 combat missions, his plane was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected and parachuted into enemy hands. He was captured and spent 6 years in a Communist Vietnamese prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on lessons learned from that experience. One day, when Plumb and his wife were sitting in a restaurant, a man at another table came up and said, “ You're Plumb! You flew jet fighters in Vietnam from the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down!”  “ How in the world did you know that?” asked Plumb.  “I packed your parachute” the man replied.  Plumb gasped in surprise and gratitude. The man pumped his hand and said, “ I guess it worked!”  Plumb assured him, “ It sure did.” “ If your chute hadn't worked, I wouldn't be here today.” Plumb couldn't sleep that night, thinking about that man. Plumb says, I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform: a white hat, a bib in the back, and bell-bottom trousers. I wonder how many times I might have seen him and not even said Good morning, how are you? or anything because, you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor. Plumb thought of the many hours the sailor had spent on a long wooden table in the bowels of the ship, carefully weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of each chute, holding in his hands each time the fate of someone he didn't know.]  All of us battle a barrage of fiery darts that our adversary sends our way with intentions of shooting us down.   Remember to pack your friend’s emotional, social and spiritual parachute and to thank God for those who have done the same for you.  “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”  Proverbs 18:24 Geronimo-ooooooh,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=27290 27290 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0000 If you are part of the Facebook community, you have seen the title of this blog (article) before.  As a matter of fact each time your Facebook account is logged into this question, “What’s on your mind?” pops up in a box.  It is always wise to exercise discernment when answering such interrogative remarks.  During my devotional time this past week I came across Proverbs 16:3 which reads:  “Commit thy works unto the Lord and thy thoughts shall be established.”  In Matthew Henry’s commentary on this verse he states:  “It is a  very desirable thing to have your thoughts established, and not tossed and put in  a hurry, by disquieting cares and fears, to go on in an even steady course of honesty and piety, undisturbed---to be satisfied that all shall work for good…”  How is this accomplished? We might well ask.  Only by committing our works unto the Lord.  The word “commit” here in the Hebrew means to “roll.”  It suggests we should roll our burdens over to Him Who is able to handle them.  The verse gives us not only the picture of One assisting us in carrying a load too heavy for us alone, but also of His taking the larger portion upon Himself.   Strange isn’t it?  How the thoughts of our head are so affected by the burdens of our heart.  Regardless of your work- whether it be the toil of your emotions, the tiresome labor of the flesh or the weariness of spiritual warfare …roll it on to the Lord! And remember, you are not in this alone. That’s a Load Off my Mind,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=26916 26916 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Just 70 yards away from the property where the World Trade Towers once stood in New York City, stands an 18th century church, St Paul’s Episcopal. Although it is across the street from the area now known as Ground Zero, it was virtually untouched by falling debris 10 years ago today when terrorists toppled the towers. The church having suffered only minor smoke damage to the steeple became a place where people found refuge. The Church served the injured and provided meals and rest to the rescue workers. The following is an excerpt from an article written by an Associate Minister at St Paul’s which appeared in National Geographic magazine: [More than 5,000 people used their special gifts to transform St. Paul’s into a place of rest and refuge. Musicians, clergy, podiatrists, lawyers, soccer moms, and folks of every imaginable type poured coffee, swept floors, took out the trash, and served more than half a million meals. Emerging at St. Paul’s was a dynamic I think of as a reciprocity of gratitude, a circle of thanksgiving—in which volunteers and rescue and recovery workers tried to outdo each other with acts of kindness and love, leaving both giver and receiver changed.] St Paul’s serves as a reminder to us here at SouthPointe that the church is a place where people can come and find rest, where the broken hearted experience healing and where comfort and direction are found in Jesus Christ our Counselor. Thankful I Have a Place to Run,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=26915 26915 Sun, 11 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0000 We’ve all seen them and perhaps experienced aggravation by them, those unexpected orange road markers calling for us to temporarily change directions in order for us to get where we are going…the Detour Sign.  I confess I have never spoken with anyone about the trouble I have with this, that is, until now.   There is something within me that becomes unsettled when I have to head north in order to go south.  Somehow I think I am not alone in this.  Nonetheless we have to trust that those who placed the signs in our path did so with the intention of getting us back on track safely.  Life is full of detours.  These pesky signs appear in our careers, our health, our relationships, even in our churches.   In John Maxwell’s book entitled Your Road Map to Success we learn that success in our life’s journey highly depends on how we handle the detours along the way.  Maxwell advises, “Keep moving forward on the journey, making the best of detours and interruptions, turning adversity into advantage.” It seems that changes in our travel plans often result in fear and failure when they do not have to.  Fear tends to breed inaction, inaction will lead to inexperience, lack of experience fosters ignorance and ignorance breeds fear [Maxwell].  We can keep from taking this cyclical route if we trust that God has our best in mind.  Recently, while traveling the expressway heading to Florida my family encountered one of these detours.  It brought us off the highway and through a quaint little town in Mississippi.  In short, we were afforded an opportunity to see things that we would have simply passed by. Maybe the Lord is trying to show us something.   Sight-Seeing,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=26930 26930 Sun, 4 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0000 It was a slave from ancient Greece (circa 5th century BC) by the name of Aesop who gave us a literary collection of fables with moral applications like The Tortoise and the Hare and The Fox and the Grapes, 656 stories in all.  In his famous The Three Little Pigs tale, he writes of a character known to us as the Big Bad Wolf.  Do you remember how the intimidating beast approaches the little pigs’ houses with a threat to huff and puff and blow their house down?  I was reminded of the old story this week when I read Isaiah 36-37 in my devotional time.  The Assyrian army had surrounded Jerusalem and had begun to threaten King Hezekiah and the people of God.  The king was troubled by the remarks and did what we should do when we face intimidating circumstances…he took the matter to the Lord in prayer.  God returned a comforting message to Hezekiah through his prophet Isaiah.   He told him that God had not only heard his prayers, but that He had also heard the threats of the enemy.   Then God did a remarkable thing that day and sent His Angel into the camp of the enemy and wiped out 185,000 Assyrian soldiers (Isaiah 37:36).  In Aesop’s fable the little pigs who trusted in their poorly constructed houses of straw and sticks did not fair well, but the one who built a strong house of bricks survived the huffing, the puffing and the blowing and even eventually conquered the wolf himself.   The moral of the story: Build your house on the Rock of our Salvation and trust God.  He will deliver! Let the Wolf In? Not by the Hair on my Chinny Chin Chin,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=26280 26280 Sun, 28 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0000 “It’s so hot the chickens are laying hard boiled eggs.”  There is something about the heat that brings out these wonderful sayings.  Sometimes the colloquialisms result in strange activity…like “Its so hot you could fry an egg on the sidewalk.”   Residents of Oatman, Arizona actually have an annual Solar Egg frying Contest on the Fourth of July.  People who try their culinary skills on the pavement usually end up with a sloppy scrambled type of an egg however.  The reason for this is that an egg needs a constant temperature of at least 154 degrees Fahrenheit to cause it to coagulate.  The sidewalk rarely reaches a temp above 145 F and then loses heat when the egg is applied to the surface.  According to those who have researched it (Egg-ologists, I suppose) you have a better chance of frying an egg on the hood of your car, but I don’t recommend it.  I suggest going to IHOP and getting some hash browns to go with it.  The extreme heat we are experiencing along with the draught conditions remind me of several Old Testament passages in which God uses such circumstances to draw His people back to Him.  Let me encourage you to pray for God’s grace on our country.  We don’t deserve His blessings but man do we ever need them.   “The LORD shall open unto thee His good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in His season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.” Deuteronomy 28:12  Praying for the rain,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=25850 25850 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 06:00:00 +0000 [A woman called the Canon help desk with a problem with her printer. The tech asked her if she was "running it under Windows." The woman then responded, "No, my desk is next to the door. But that is a good point. The man sitting in the cubicle next to me is under a window, and his is working fine."]  Technology can be somewhat overwhelming.  Some of you are like I am, in that we have the unique privilege of being at the end of the Baby Boomer generation.  Those who came before us seem to fall into two categories, they were either involved in the development of the computer systems or they aren’t exactly sure how to turn them on.  Those who arrived after us have never known a world without cell phones and the Internet.  Speaking of phones, I had to acquire a new mobile recently.  I was attended to by a college student from the University of Texas at Arlington.  He handed me a sample phone that had been activated and said, “Here try it out, send a text.”  Sliding the keyboard open and noticing a substantial difference in the new device and the one I had become familiar with, I said “How much time do you have?”  Technology can be an asset, but it can also be a detriment if we let it.  I would imagine the Apostle Paul would view it as a great tool to send out prayer requests, encouragement, and the gospel message.  I also believe he would give us a stern warning concerning the potential it has for wrong doing.   This week I read in 2 Kings 23:2 “…and he read in their ears all the words of the book of the covenant which was found in the house of the Lord” and I was reminded that God has sent us a text message that is of vital importance.    Let me encourage you as you increase in the knowledge of Facebook to increase even more in the knowledge of His Book! MGBU [Meaning: May God Bless You (Language: Textnese)], Bro. David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=25614 25614 Sun, 7 Aug 2011 06:00:00 +0000 While returning to the great state of Texas from our east coast vacation this past week, we stopped for a night in historic Vicksburg, Mississippi.   One of our favorite things to do (“our” meaning Gayle and myself, certainly not our son DJ) is to peruse antique shops.  Civil War memorabilia has always intrigued me and Vicksburg has no shortage of it.  I saw cavalry and infantry swords, uniform buttons, coins, hats and clothes that all dated back to the War Between the States (Circa 1861-1865).  We even stayed in a stately Antebellum Bed and Breakfast which DJ described as dating back to 1211 and “smelling funny.”  Vicksburg does a good job of paying tribute to soldiers from every war in which Americans have been involved.  One memorial outside the Old Courthouse was erected in honor of an elite World War II Battalion and had the following inscription: “We were that which others did not want to be.  We went where others feared to go, and did what others failed to do.  We were American Soldiers.”  When I read this the Holy Spirit moved me to be thankful for both those who serve our country and those who serve the cause of Christ.  Without many who willingly sacrifice in the Lord’s Army and do what others will not do, the Lord’s work could not be done.  Thank you. We Are Glad to be Home, We Missed You!Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=25457 25457 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 08:00:00 +0000 What was said: “Dad, do you have any chap stick?”  What I heard: “Dad do you have any chop sticks?”  Maybe you have encountered a similar lack of clarity.  My children tell me I’m getting old, or come to think of it, maybe they are asking me if I am getting cold…?  Nonetheless, “understanding” is important, isn’t it?  There are many contributors to and influences on the way our minds process information.  Good communication is essential in every relationship.  What is being said, however, is only part of the issue. How it is perceived is equally vital.   Have you ever made a comment that was taken the wrong way?  Low self esteem and insecurity on the part of the listener or body language and facial expressions on the part of the person speaking can influence the meaning of a message.  If you have been a Christian for many years you may have developed a Biblical worldview.  A “worldview” is a type of filter through which information flows to our minds.  It is like a pair of colored glasses that tint the world a certain shade as we observe it.   A person who does not have a Biblical worldview will understand the events of the world differently than a person who views them in light of God’s Word and God’s plan.   Unfortunately, the secular education system in our nation has been indoctrinating young people for many years with a worldview that is immersed in humanism.   While this anti-God perspective has been commendably combated by Christian schools and faith-based colleges, I am afraid we may be losing the battle.  Increasingly, Christian educational institutions are becoming less identifiable as they have taken on more of a private school persona.  Some are purporting that the message of Christ be more subliminal.  I wonder how those who are found in  Foxes’ Book of Martyrs would have responded to that philosophy?  Proverbs 4:7 says: “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”   Putting On My Glasses, So I Can Hear You,Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=25456 25456 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 08:00:00 +0000 “Dad, would you cut the cake?”  It wasn’t that we didn’t love Mom, or appreciate all the hard work she put into the baking of it…but Dad was much more generous when it came to the divvying up of the goods.  As a child growing up I learned early that my Mother had two standards of measurement.  One was the largest spoon the world had ever seen.  It was used to place a “spoonful of everything (usually meaning veggies)” on our plates.  The other standard she used was minuscule in comparison and was implemented in the cutting of cakes and pies.  I repeatedly tried to get her to use that veggie spoon on the peach cobbler, but to no avail.   In Matthew 7:2, Jesus had something to say about the way we measure things: “For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.”  In this passage of the Sermon on the Mount our Lord is explaining a very important principle and if we will apply it we will do ourselves a great favor.   When it comes to giving out portions of forgiveness, mercy and kindness, be generous!  Remember that the same standard for measuring that you use, will be used in return on you.  Don’t think of it as, “they don’t deserve it.”  Think of it as, “I desire it.”  It is interesting that this principle applies also to our giving- Luke 6:38 “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”  You can always adopt what I call the “Reddi-Whip Plan.” You can never have too much Reddi-Whip!  Heap on the forgiveness, pile on the mercy and sprinkle liberally the kindness.  Then enjoy when it comes back to you. Cutting Large Slices,Bro David  http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=25455 25455 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 08:00:00 +0000  This week I read about a new find on an old ship, off the coast of Key West, Florida.  The Nuestra Senora de Atocha is a Spanish vessel that sank during a hurricane in September 1622.  For the past sixteen years a team of treasure hunters have been diving to recover the riches hidden beneath the surface of the waters.  So far, their bounty has been estimated to be worth in excess of 500 million dollars.  There is something exhilarating about finding a valuable item that has been tucked away for a while, isn’t there?  C’mon, admit it, do you occasionally turn over a vase at the yard sale in hope of revealing a faded but readable “Ming Dynasty” impression only to be disappointed by the “Wal-Mart” barcode?   The truth is that there are treasures tucked away in the Word of God that are only discovered by spending studious time with the Holy Spirit.  In 1 Corinthians 2:10 the Bible states, “But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.”  The summer heat tends to bring with it a rather relaxed way of life for us.  Let us put forth the effort of a deep sea explorer and delve into the riches of God’s Word together.  There is one other thought that bears mentioning here: When you find the treasure, let others know about it!   Happy Hunting, Bro David (AKA Dave the Diver) http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=24930 24930 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 08:00:00 +0000 As Christians we strive for and often experience contentment.  Unfortunately, contentment has a slippery surface and just about the time we think our feet are firmly planted we slide into complacency.  We are not alone in this sea of I-could-not-care-less.  Many years ago there was a High Priest by the name of Eli.  He was a rather passive man.  His sons were misusing the office of the priesthood and although he knew of this atrocity, he didn’t seem to care.  When judgment was pronounced against them and his house his response was, “It is the LORD: let Him do what seemeth him good” 1 Samuel 3:18.  He made no attempt to plead his case before the Lord, no tears, no prayers.  The worst thing about complacency is that we do not feel like doing the things that we need to do to get out of the abyss.  This past week I have been doing some much needed work on my wife’s kitchen at home.  As usual, I had to make a run to the Home Depot.  I told my wife, “I need to pick up more stain and maybe a little initiative while I’m there.”  Initiative…that’s what we need!  Solomon gave the following motivational advice in Proverbs 6:6 - “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.”  I recently came across an inspirational article in which the writer, Jeff Herring considers the ants in one of his children’s favorite videos “Bug’s Life.”  Herring cites five strategies for curing complacency learned from the ants:  1)  Ants never give up  2) Ants are always getting ready for what’s next  3) Ants are resourceful and creative 4) Ants are always hopeful and 5) Ants don’t seem to believe in the concept of enough.    Reaching for the Proverbial Boot Straps, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=24929 24929 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 08:00:00 +0000 The way people view Father’s Day may vary based on personal experiences.  Some have fond memories filled with thoughts of quality time spent with Dad, while others have quite the opposite.  I feel blessed to have had a Dad who believed in God and trusted His Son, Jesus Christ, and shared his faith with his children.  Not all have that opportunity.  Like some who may be reading this article, my Dad could not share the heartfelt, warm memories of Father’s Day’s gone by.   His Dad (my paternal Grandfather) passed away in 1932 while serving as Town Marshall of Atlantic Beach, Florida.   My Father was only seven years old at the time.  The tragedy was compounded within his family by the Great Depression occurring around the same time that he became fatherless.  While his friends went to school, he went to work.  These hardships could have resulted in a man who was bitter toward God, but instead, a life of dependency on God was developed.  My Dad, like most Dads, (myself included) had a tendency to repeat things, stories and statements, ya know.   Among those repetitious sayings of his was, “I didn’t have an earthly Dad to teach me, so I would ask God to show me how to do things, and He would, He is my Father.”  Dad was instilling in me the most valuable life lesson possible…I could depend on God.  The Bible states that God will be a “Father to the Fatherless” (Psalm 68:5a).  Adam, the first man, had no earthly example to follow.  He would have learned how to be a Dad from his Heavenly Father.  In closing, let us remember the picture of the Father found in Luke 15 (the story of the prodigal).  He is a loving, merciful, forgiving example for us all.  Happy Father’s Day! Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=24928 24928 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 08:00:00 +0000 “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.” 1 Corinthians 9:24 If you see a child running around the church grounds you probably wouldn’t give it a second thought, but if you saw an adult sprinting across the parking lot, you would begin to inquire “What’s going on?”  While children need no reason to run, adults on the other hand do.  Paul the Apostle describes the Christian life as a “race” in the verse mentioned above.  Every race has both a designated finish line and a coveted prize awaiting presentation.  As a local area Texan it would be difficult to escape all the news concerning athletic teams in our proximity.  You’ve probably heard that our Texas Rangers are desirous to win another pennant race, our Dallas Mavericks are close to winning the O’Brien Trophy and our near by Dallas Baptist Patriots are making a run at the College World series in Omaha.   This weekend the Texas Motor Speedway hosted yet another Indy race and not one of those drivers had to ask why they were lining up.  Imagine that… the driver takes his place and calls in on his headset, “Why are we doing this again?”  They were all there to win.  From time to time I am afraid that we lose sight of why we run as Christians.  The day will come when our race is over and we will stand before Christ to receive our rewards.  We will then have the opportunity to lay those crowns at Jesus’ feet.  Until then, let us run to win the lost and strive to exalt the Savior in whatever our hands find to do.  When we grow faint, let us press on… remembering there are spectators not only observing how we run our race, but learning how to run their own.  Running to Obtain, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=24927 24927 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 06:00:00 +0000 As many of you know my article or blog that appears each week in our church bulletin and on the website is rarely related to the subject of my sermon.  However, in some cases I am so taken by information that God leads me to, that I feel compelled to further emphasize the thought by including it here in this space.  I have been observing church growth trends since before I went into fulltime ministry in 1982.  As you may well be able to attest, many changes have occurred in worship over the past 30 years.  Some of the most noticeable include things like, music, dress, small groups studies and youth services that are separate from adult services.  In an effort to grow their church some ecclesiastical leaders across America have opted to cater to one generation thus ostracizing another.  Whether the church is ultra-traditional or hyper-contemporary, generations are being left out.  Since I have been your pastor (nearly seven years now), I have led you to have what I have commonly called a “Multi-generational Church.”  Although we are blessed with such a congregation today, I have continually felt as though something was missing.  I believe the Lord has shared with me what that something is.  I have been wrong in emphasizing a “Multi-generational church ministry” and I hope you will forgive me.  What we need is actually an “Inter-generational Church.”  Let me explain, “Multi” indicates multiple generations present…while “Inter” refers to many generations interacting in relationships.  Statistics show that we will lose 80% of the kindergarten aged children in church today, before they reach high school, and another 90% of high school graduates within their first two years following their graduation.  This loss is attributed to a “disconnect” that takes place, a feeling that they are attending their mom and dad’s church…not their church.  We can stop this trend and develop an Inter-generational church.  Will you help? Inter-rested, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=24926 24926 Sun, 5 Jun 2011 08:00:00 +0000 You have perhaps heard the saying “Freedom isn’t free.”  Indeed it isn’t.  I fear that many of us who enjoy the immense freedom offered here in the United States may fail to calculate its cost.   While it is possible that my observations may differ from some, from my perspective I see an increased lack of both patriotism and appreciation for those who have paid the price.  It has been my privilege over the years to pastor many military personnel.  All of whom have been living examples of those words often associated with their creeds, Honor, Commitment and Courage.  I have been blessed by the opportunities afforded me as their pastor, to spend time with Privates, Master Chiefs, Colonels, Coast Guard Intelligence Officers and a Commander of an aircraft carrier.  I have been honored by the fellowship of World War II Veterans and the friendship a former Korean prisoner of war.  I have prayed with couples as their husband or wife deployed on an 8 month sea duty and helped counsel them as they readjusted to life together on land.  I have sat in the homes of numerous parents whose pictures on the mantle tell a story of a young life nurtured and reared in their home to love God and country.  We are very proud of those in our congregation who have served and who currently serve in our nation’s military.  Over 2.4 million remarkable Americans like these all across our nation, have given their lives, so that we could live in freedom.  Today, we not only remember their sacrifice but we say “Thank you” to those who have shared in the provision of our peace and prosperity.  May “God Bless America” be more than a lyric in a song or a saying that rolls off our lips…may it be our prayer.    Thank you to the men and women of our armed forces and to those who have suffered the loss of a family member in battle.  May God truly bless you and comfort you.    In His Service, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=23732 23732 Sun, 29 May 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Whether you are a visual, auditory or kinesthetic learner, you would most likely agree with me that learning requires repetition.   This was true in the early stages of our education when we memorized our ABC’s and it is true today as we grasp the characteristics of a Christian life.   It would do us well today to address a subject that deserves an occasional repeat…the subject of “self-righteousness.”  According to the Gospel records, Jesus dealt with this topic often.  He taught a parable about two men (Luke 18) who went to the temple to pray.  One saw himself as a sinner in need of God’s help, while the other saw himself as righteous and spent most of his prayer letting God know of his own goodness.  He explained that the self righteous man had left without accomplishing anything.   Then, in John 8 the story of the woman taken in adultery is recorded for our learning.  You might remember that the crowd in this text assembled for the purpose of stoning the woman and accusing Jesus of not following the Law of God.  Most of us are familiar with the mercy and grace that Jesus exercised in the handling of the matter.  He stooped to the ground and wrote a message (unknown to us) while issuing an unusual invitation.  He invited them to begin the stoning and whoever was without sin should throw the first rock.  As they contemplated this statement, something happened…conviction set in and slowly the crowd began to dissipate while the thumping of falling rocks could be heard as they were released from the clinched fists of the mob.  Jesus drew the attention of the embarrassed woman to the fact that not only had her accusers had a change of mind but more importantly, He had forgiven her.  The next time you reach for a rock with the intention of hurling it at another, follow this advice:  Go ahead! That is of course, if you are one who is sinless yourself.    Unable to Qualify for the Rock Toss, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=23731 23731 Sun, 22 May 2011 06:00:00 +0000 “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 3:18   I’m sure we all do it, some of us more than others perhaps.  We see someone and automatically say, “Hey, that person looks like____.”   After 29 years in ministry, it is not uncommon for me to see people that remind me of others that I have known.  It is not always their appearance; sometimes it may be a mannerism or even the sound of their voice that strikes an association mechanism in our brain which prompts the statement “They remind me of____.”  In the above mentioned verse Paul refers to a reflection in an ancient mirror.  Mirrors in the Bible days were typically made of burnished metal and did not give a perfect reflection but a somewhat obscured likeness of the actual.  The Apostle speaks of our looking into such and seeing an image similar in appearance to that of Jesus.  This is done, he said, through the work of the Spirit of the Lord.  We are not a perfect likeness but should remind people of Him.  Dr. Barnes states: “It is a law of our nature that we are moulded, in our moral feelings, by the persons with whom we associate, and by the objects which we contemplate. We become insensibly assimilated to those with whom we have interaction, and to the objects with which we are familiar. We imbibe the opinions, we copy the habits, we imitate the manners, we fall into the customs of those with whom we have daily conversation, and whom we make our companions and friends.” With this in mind let us exercise caution.  The books we read, shows we watch, music we listen to and the friends we hang out with all influence us more than we realize.  Whether we like it or not we are all changing little by little.  The question is:  “Is it into someone who resembles Christ?”    Glancing into the Mirror of His Word, Looking for Needed Corrections, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=23730 23730 Sun, 15 May 2011 06:00:00 +0000 The Royal Wedding this past week between England’s future king, Prince William and his bride Kate Middleton captivated millions of viewers all over the world.   I have found that men and women respond quite differently to such an occasion.  Numerous ladies, young and mature, woke up early (I’m talking real early) to watch the live streaming of the ceremony, while others set their DVRs and slept through the nuptials.  Men everywhere prayed and hoped the females in the home didn’t somehow erase the important stuff they had recorded, like the Maverick’s victory over the Trail Blazers in game 6.  The Cinderella that exists in all girls, were awed at Kate’s dress and the palatial settings, while the guys experienced heart palpitations of their own… discovering the expense of the festivity was a king’s ransom reaching nearly 40 million dollars.    While we Americans will always be a bit enamored with our monarchial ancestors and the extravagance with which they reside, we need not think that a Royal Wedding is just a fairy tale.  The Bible teaches if we have been born-again, we are going to be a part of a Marriage with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  As the Bride of Christ, we will enjoy such things that eyes have never seen and ears have never heard, a celebration unmatched by anything this world could ever offer.   Let us not forget that others can join us in this remarkable relationship with Christ…let’s extend the invitation:  “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17   Headed to a Royal Wedding, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=23729 23729 Sun, 1 May 2011 06:00:00 +0000 We had been on the road for about 10 hours.  There were five of us tightly packed into my roommate’s Chevy Chevette (Circa 1981).  We had left our college dorms in Missouri’s cold December with a determined spirit to arrive at our warm Florida homes in record time.  We had a plan, a schedule of drivers that divided the 18 hour trek into 2 hour shifts.   I was driving, and it began to sleet.  We were just outside Tupelo, Mississippi, the celebrated home of Elvis Presley, when it happened.  It was late at night and all passengers in our car were asleep, with the exception of Wendy, a friend from my home church who was sitting in the back on the passenger side by the window.   I had decided to pass a slow moving vehicle when our car began to feel rather light.   I wasn’t sure what was happening at first, I had never experienced hydroplaning before.   We began to glide to the right, directly next to the car I was passing.  Wendy later commented that she had been within inches of the people in the other automobile.  In an effort to avoid contact, I gently pulled the wheel to the left, which resulted in a sensation similar to being on the Tea Cups at Disney World.  We began a rapid spin.  We were now in the lane of the on-coming traffic.  It wasn’t my life that flashed before my eyes, but headlights… once, twice and then a third time.  By the time the ride was over everyone was awake and wondering what exactly had happened.  The car began to wobble as we tried to continue our journey, so we exited the vehicle to assess the problem.  We had a flat tire.  It was then we noticed the distance we had traveled as we spun, and the deep ravine that was located just off the shoulder of the road.  It was evident that God had directed our path out of the on-coming cars onto an isolated on-ramp…the only alternative to the ravine.   We thanked Him, changed the tire and slowly drove to the nearest place to get it fixed.  To the amazement of us all, including the attendant, there was no puncture.  All the tire needed was airing up.  You may not believe that God is in control even when we’re out of control, but you’ll never convince those of us that experienced a real life “Jesus Take the Wheel” kinda thing that night.    Elated Over Sometimes Being Deflated, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=23724 23724 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 06:00:00 +0000 Maybe you have heard about the man who came forward at the end of a moving revival meeting and requested special prayer. “What can I pray with you about?” the preacher asked.  “It’s my hearing,” the man answered. Immediately the preacher called the deacons forward to join in, laid hands on the man’s ears, and then prayed loud and long.  When he was finished he asked, “Now, how is your hearing?” “Well”, the man said, “I don’t know yet, it’s scheduled for next Thursday.”  On a more serious note, prayer is essential for revival.  Not only our petitions that we offer at church, but also those referred to by the renowned English pulpiteer, CH Spurgeon, who said, “Oh! men and brethren, what would this heart feel if I could but believe that there were some among you who would go home and pray for a revival - men whose faith is large enough, and their love fiery enough to lead them from this moment to exercise unceasing intercessions that God would appear among us and do wondrous things here, as in the times of former generations.”   If revival actually shows up at the church building, it will only be because it has taken hold in our everyday lives.  Allow me to close this article with a challenge from the gifted orator, Dr Stephen Olford: “Will you pray 'Revive me!' and then open your being to the Spirit of Revival? Do not rest until you have been restored to the fullness of the blessing that God is waiting to pour out in your life!”   Praying For Our Hearing, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=23723 23723 Sun, 3 Apr 2011 06:00:00 +0000 The term Revival Meeting conjures up a montage of pictures in our minds.  For some, it brings back memories of large tents, wooden slat benches and the smell of sawdust on the ground. Others may associate the term with emotionally driven, enthusiastic church services where the music is ramped up and numerous decisions concerning salvation and rededication are made.  In some parts of the country it’s not a revival till the snakes are brought out, danced with over head and finally stepped on.  While that type of service would certainly cause me to move (uhh, to my vehicle), that is not the kind of revival we are in search of here at SouthPointe.  Revival could be defined as a time of reawakened interest in our relationship with God, evidenced by the presence of restored joy in our lives.  True revival begins in an area much, much smaller than the stadiums in which the Billy Graham crusades are held, it begins in the heart of individuals.  Today, at SouthPointe we start a seven week series entitled “Revive Us.”  It is my prayer that you will take advantage of these lessons; participate in the daily devotional guide that will be distributed today and fast with me at least one day a week over the next seven weeks as we seek to make revival a reality.  Please join me at the altar each week at the close of the service during our series as we petition God to revive our hearts.  I promise… no snakes will be handed out!   Expecting God to Move, Bro David http://www.southpointebaptist.net/index.cfm?i=14178&mid=25&blogid=6353&comments=23728 23728 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 06:00:00 +0000