MSM CONNECTIONS
For the week of 06/06
The Men's Ministry e-mail newsletter of
Our mission: Our mission is to lead men to
Jesus Christ and provide opportunity for
Christian men to grow in their faith
and minister to others.
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MSM CONNECTIONS is the opt-in newsletter for the men of New Joy Divine Full Gospel Church. It's a periodic service that helps connect you with God and with other men at NJD. If you'd like its delivery to your email address stopped, scroll down and follow the instructions at the end of this message. Also let me know if you change your email address and want to keep subscribing to MSM CONNECTIONS.
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"Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord." 2 Peter 1:2 (TNIV)
CONSIDER
"I need not shout my faith. Thrice eloquent
Are quiet trees and the green, listening sod;
Hushed are the stars, whose power is never spent;
The hills are mute: yet, how they speak of God!"
Charles Hanson Towne (1877-1949)
ADAPTABLE DADS
by Jack and Jerry Schreur
The question is asked by dads everywhere: "How come some fathers start out close to their children but despite their best intentions something happens along the way, and their relationships with their children do not survive the journey into adulthood?"
During our two years of research on fathering we got the answer, but it was surprising. Dads and their children told us that if we want to build relationships with our children that will stand the test of time, we need to become adaptable dads. In other words, adaptable dads grow up their fathering with their children.
There are two types of changes that force us to adapt or lose touch with our children. First and most obviously there are developmental changes. When your daughter is 16 months old she wants to play with your car keys, but when she is 16 years old she wants those keys for an entirely different and much more frightening reason. Dads need to adapt their parenting style as the developmental needs of their children change. For example, it often works to be more authoritarian with young children -- however, that approach rarely works with teenagers.
http://www.newmanmag.com/article.php?sid=532&mode=thread&order=0
<a href="http://www.newmanmag.com/article.php?sid=532&mode=thread&order=0"> Or click here</a>
FATHER'S DAY
GIFTS
This Father's Day (6/20), give (or request) a gift that shows God's love. Honor your dad with a life-saving gift in his name to a child or family in need. Choose from World Vision's online catalog at
http://www.worldvisiongifts.org
<a href="http://www.worldvisiongifts.org"> Or click here</a>
EVENTS IN JUNE
June 9-12 - NCAA Division I Men's & Women's Outdoor Track & Field Championships (Austin, TX)
http://www.ncaasports.com/outdoortrack/mens
<a href="http://www.ncaasports.com/outdoortrack/mens"> Or click here</a>
June 12-13 - 24 Hours of Le Mans (Le Mans, France)
http://www.lemans.org/univers_sport/24hauto/live/index_gb.html
<a href="http://www.lemans.org/univers_sport/24hauto/live/index_gb.html"> Or click here</a>
June 17-20 - U.S. Open golf tournament (Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, Southampton, NY)
<a href="http://www.usopen.com/"> Or click here</a>
June 20 - First day of Summer (Northern Hemisphere)
http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/astronomy/SummerSolstice.html
<a href="http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/astronomy/SummerSolstice.html"> Or click here</a>
June 21-July 4 - Wimbledon tennis tournament (England)
http://www.wimbledon.org/en_GB/index.html
<a href="http://www.wimbledon.org/en_GB/index.html"> Or click here</a>
VERSE TO PONDER
"He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge." Proverbs 14:26 (NIV)
CONSIDER
"We are all pencils in the hand of a writing God, who is sending love letters to the world." Mother Teresa (Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu) (1910-1997)
* Starting Wednesday June 23rd and continuing through Sunday June 27th will be our official series of guest ministries commemorating the 20th Anniversary of New Joy Divine Full Gospel Church. Visit our website at http://www.newjoydivine.org for details and a list of guest speakers.
* Get prepared for the Christian Marriage Enrichment Ministry’s Las Vegas outing! July 18–21, 2004. See Minister Shonnette Collier for details.
WWII HISTORY
For a quick history lesson on D-Day (in this 60th anniversary year) go to
http://www.aetv.com/tv/shows/ike/
<a href="http://www.aetv.com/tv/shows/ike/"> Or click here</a>
and
http://www.historychannel.com/dday/
<a href="http://www.historychannel.com/dday/"> Or click here</a>
VACATION TIPS
If you're planning a summer vacation, you may want to visit this CNN special website
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2004/summer.trips/index.html
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2004/summer.trips/index.html"> Or click here</a>
DEALING WITH
P*RNOGRAPHY
For a week in May Focus on the Family actively promoted a new series of articles on p*rnography[1] by David Sanford. This series features more than a dozen articles on how p*rnography has become "mainstream,"[2] the effects[3] of viewing p*rnography, the real price[4] of p*rn, the pre-addictive stages[5], the risks of addiction, what to do[6] if a family member is viewing p*rn, what to do if you're trapped[7], and steps for breaking free[8].
[See links below]
[1] http://www.family.org/married/intros/a0030335.cfm
[2] http://www.family.org/married/facts/a0030341.cfm
[3] http://www.family.org/married/facts/A0030342.cfm
[4] http://www.family.org/married/facts/A0030343.cfm
[5] http://www.family.org/married/howtos/A0030336.cfm
[6] http://www.family.org/married/howtos/A0030336.cfm
[7] http://www.family.org/married/howtos/A0030337.cfm
[8] http://www.family.org/married/howtos/A0030352.cfm
NEW TV NETWORK
FOR G*YS
Viacom Inc. -- the global communications company that owns CBS, Paramount Pictures, Showtime, MTV, and several other major media properties -- announced May 25 that MTV Networks will launch a new cable network targeted toward h*mosexuals next year. The new channel -- LOGO -- is set to launch in February 2005 and will feature movies, reality shows, and other content for the h*mosexual audience. But rather than making it a premium channel that customers would have to specifically order, LOGO will be a basic cable channel that will automatically come into every cable subscriber's home alongside networks like CNN and FOX News. The Family Research Council responded to the announcement by urging citizens to support legislation that would allow consumers to choose which cable channels they want rather than buying a pre-set package.
http://www.viacom.com/press.tin?ixPressRelease=80304155
<a href="http://www.viacom.com/press.tin?ixPressRelease=80304155"> Or click here</a>
EX-G*Y COMMITTED
TO EVANGELISM
A former h*mosexual for 11 years has launched an aggressive evangelism campaign that targets gays. With his outreach events, CDs, and a weekly radio program, Stephen Bennett emphasizes that Jesus can heal h*mosexuals.
Bennett, 40, who battled with abandoning h*mosexuality until January 1992 when he prayed to receive Christ, said he no longer has h*mosexual desires. He stresses that overcoming one's same-sex attraction is a process, which for some may not be easy, yet it is completely possible.
"I am perfectly happy as the man God created me to be," he told "Charisma" magazine in the May issue. The full article on Bennett can be found in the magazine. "I am in love with my wife. My nightmare has turned into a fairytale because of God."
Bennett, who started Stephen Bennett Ministries (SBM) based in Huntington, Conn., has appeared on Fox News' "The O'Reilly Factor," and speaks regularly at churches and events sponsored by the American Family Association (AFA) and Concerned Women for America.
<a href="http://www.sbministries.org/"> Or click here</a>
PRESIDENT BUSH
INTERVIEW
In a wide-ranging interview with religion journalists May 26, President Bush said that more public support is needed to pass a constitutional marriage amendment, that he prays "all the time," and that the war on terrorism involves a "clash of ideologies." The interview involved 9 religion writers and editors from such publications as Christianity Today and Good News and touched on everything from his faith to his view on the nation of Israel.
Regarding the issue of same-sex "marriage," Bush said he backs a Federal Marriage Amendment because he fears that the Defense of Marriage Act -- the law that prevents the federal government from recognizing same-sex "marriage" and allows states to do the same -- will be struck down in court. But Bush said he believes that few people understand the nationwide threat being posed by legalized same-sex "marriage" in Massachusetts.
"[I]n order for a constitutional amendment to go forward people have to speak," he said, according to a transcript posted on Christianity Today's website. "Now I'll be glad to lend my voice, but it's going to require more than one voice. It's going to require people from around the country to insist to members of Congress, for starters, that a constitutional amendment process is necessary for the country."
An edited transcript of the interview is available online at:
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2004/121/51.0.html
<a href="http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2004/121/51.0.html"> Or click here</a>
An article about the interview can be seen at
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?ID=18378
<a href="http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?ID=18378"> Or click here</a>
FAITH HAS A
LIMITED EFFECT ON MOST PEOPLE'S BEHAVIOR
Jesus taught that Christians would be recognizable by their distinctive behavior -- specifically, by the way they love others and how their lives reflect their spiritual values and beliefs (i.e., the "fruit" of their transformation). A new report from The Barna Group, a cultural analysis company in southern California, presents research indicating that people's faith does not make as much of a difference as might be expected -- especially among non-evangelical born again Christians. Based on a national survey that related people's faith and 19 lifestyle activities that might be expected to be affected by faith views, the report concludes that two groups -- Christian evangelicals and those without a faith preference (i.e., atheists and agnostics) are those that stand out from the crowd.
Christian evangelicals are a small proportion of the national population, representing just 7% of the adult mass. However, they are the group whose faith is most clearly evident in their behavioral choices. The survey divided the population into five faith segments (evangelicals, non-evangelical born again Christians, notional Christians, adherents of non-Christian faiths, and atheists/agnostics). Evangelicals emerged as the group most likely to do each of the following:
* discuss spiritual matters with other people
* volunteer at a church or non-profit organization
* discuss political matters with other people
* discuss moral issues and conditions with others
* stop watching a television program because of its values or viewpoints
* go out of their way to encourage or compliment someone
Evangelicals were also distinguished by being the segment least likely to engage in the following endeavors:
* contact a political official
* view p*rnographic media
* read their horoscope
* use tobacco products
Read the full report at
http://www.barna.org/FlexPage.aspx?Page=BarnaUpdateNarrow&BarnaUpdateID=164
<a href="http://www.barna.org/FlexPage.aspx?Page=BarnaUpdateNarrow&BarnaUpdateID=164"> Or click here</a>
VERSE TO PONDER
"God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 (TNIV)
CONSIDER
"One who receives this Word, and by it salvation, receives along with it the duty of passing this Word on. Where there is no mission, there is no Church, and where there is neither Church nor mission, there is no faith." Emil Brunner (1889-1966)
Mark your calendars for the weekend of August 27-29, 2004 at the Hickory Ridge Marriott Conference in Lisle Illinois where we will have our annual Men’s Conference. Theme: “The Fruit Of The Spirit.” Come and be blessed during this time of fellowship and ministry. Contact Minister Maurice Collier or Minister Frank Coleman. Visit the church’s web site: www.newjoydivine.org, go to the Men’s ministry page for details or download a registration form <here>.
LEARN THE STORIES
BEHIND YOUR FAVORITE HYMNS
Knowing the stories behind your favorite hymns can significantly deepen their impact in your life. For more, go to
http://ifc.gospelcom.net/spiritual_growth/618/
<a href="http://ifc.gospelcom.net/spiritual_growth/618/"> Or click here</a>
THIS WEEK'S HYMN:
HOW TEDIOUS AND TASTELESS
Words: John Newton, 1779.
Music: Lewis Edson, 1782.
How tedious and tasteless the hours
When Jesus I no longer see;
Sweet prospects, sweet birds and sweet flowers,
Have all lost their sweetness to me;
The midsummer sun shines but dim,
The fields strive in vain to look gay.
But when I am happy in Him,
December's as pleasant as May.
His Name yields the richest perfume,
And sweeter than music His voice;
His presence disperses my gloom,
And makes all within me rejoice.
I should, were He always thus nigh,
Have nothing to wish or to fear;
No mortal as happy as I,
My summer would last all the year.
Content with beholding His face,
My all to His pleasure resigned,
No changes of season or place
Would make any change in my mind:
While blessed with a sense of His love,
A palace a toy would appear;
All prisons would palaces prove,
If Jesus would dwell with me there.
Dear Lord, if indeed I am Thine,
If Thou art my sun and my song,
Say, why do I languish and pine?
And why are my winters so long?
O drive these dark clouds from the sky,
Thy soul cheering presence restore;
Or take me to Thee up on high,
Where winter and clouds are no more.
>from CyberHymnal at
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/h/t/htedious.htm
<a href="http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/h/t/htedious.htm"> Or click here</a>
SUNDAY RECAP
During Apostle Royster’s R&R sabbatical, we have had the pleasure of hearing the Word of God as delivered by Prophetess Mable Royster and the Elders in the house. This week Elder Dalter Yarbrough challenged us with the phrase, “You better recognize” (to use a modern colloquialism). In reading through Psalm 145, 146 & 147, we get a view of who God is. David so eloquently described the attributes of a God who is worthy to be praised. Then Elder Yarbrough reminded us that there are times in which we question God. We begin to ask why are we in the mess we are in. Job asked that question and was told, “You better recognize” who your God is. Read Job 38 and 39 to get God’s response to Job’s and our questions as to who God is. “You better recognize.” Our God is able to perform His Word. We just have to recognize who He is and let God be God and allow Him to direct and guide our paths; besides, He is the beginning and the end.
HELP FOR STROKE
VICTIMS
Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. Now doctors say any bystander can recognize a stroke asking three simple questions:
If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, call 9-1-1 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher. After discovering that a group of non-medical volunteers could identify facial weakness, arm weakness, and speech problems, researchers urged the general public to learn the three questions. They presented their conclusions at the American Stroke Association's annual meeting in February 2004. Widespread use of this test could result in prompt diagnosis and treatment of the stroke and prevent brain damage.
...........PASS IT ON..........
http://www.strokeassociation.org/
<a href="http://www.strokeassociation.org/"> Or click here</a>
SINGER GEORGE
BEVERLY SHEA RELEASED FROM HOSPITAL
As of this writing, George Beverly Shea, a long time associate of evangelist Billy Graham and baritone soloist at many of his Crusades, was released June 2 from Mission Hospitals in Asheville, NC where he had been treated since May 27 for what his physicians described as a small heart attack.
"Mr. Shea will continue a program of rest, recuperation and medical care over the next four to six weeks," said a spokesperson for Mission Hospitals. "Upon discharge, the 95-year old singer told his doctors he feels strong, and joins with his family in appreciation for the prayers and support they have felt from friends and well-wishers."
Billy Graham remains hospitalized at Mission following surgery to stabilize a fracture in his pelvis. He is listed in fair condition and continues in a program of rehabilitation.
<a href="http://www.assistnews.net"> Or click here</a>
ON PRAYER
"When I start each day, I make it a point to spend an hour in prayer with God. But if I have a particularly busy day, and am more rushed than usual, I make it a point to spend two hours with God before I start the day." Martin Luther
CRITICAL PRAYER
REQUESTS FOR STRATEGIC NATIONS
We're praying for our fellow believers in a different nation each week.
Please pray for...HONDURAS
http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/ho.html
<a href="http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/ho.html"> Or click here</a>
The growing numbers and influence of Evangelicals is praiseworthy, but the fragmentation of their witness into numerous denominations and the jealousies and isolationism this brings, is a hindrance -- often the result of the exclusivistic views of the missionaries. Pray for the Confraternidad Evangélica (founded in 1990) and its members as they seek to address the need for fellowship and cooperation. Much must be done to tackle the social and economic crisis in the post-Hurricane 'Mitch' years.
http://www.gmi.org/ow/index.html
<a href="http://www.gmi.org/ow/index.html"> Or click here</a>
PRAY
* Pastor Aaron Royster
* Pastor Arnold Pulliam
* Minister Maurice Collier
* Minister Tony Hampton
* Elder William Moore
* Minister Aaron O’Tey
[As you travel on business or vacation, let me know if you'd like the church guys to pray for your safety and spiritual effectiveness. I'll add your name to the list for the time you'll be away.]
CLASSIFIEDS
Are you looking for something or do you have something to sell?
Let me know and I'll put it in this newsletter.
SHARE YOUR
FAVORITE WEBSITES
Tell us what sites you find enjoyable and why.
Seat Belt Laws: The sign of a Police State?
http://www.seatbeltchoice.com/
<a href="http://www.seatbeltchoice.com/"> Or click here</a>
The Orphanage of Cast-off Mascots: Failed marketing mascots up for adoption
http://www.lileks.com/institute/orphanage/
<a href="http://www.lileks.com/institute/orphanage/"> Or click here</a>
Do You Remember These? (turn your speakers on)
http://www.singingman.us/DYR.htm
<a href="http://www.singingman.us/DYR.htm"> Or click here</a>
The Alliance Defense Fund. Defending the right to hear and
speak the Truth.
<a href="http://www.alliancealert.org/">
Or click here</a>
All links to Websites are provided as a service, and do not imply endorsement by our church.
(BTW: whenever the URLs in this newsletter are too long to turn into links on your e-mail program, just copy the entire URL (two lines or more) and paste it into a temporary email message. Then delete the return in the middle of it and copy it again. Then paste it into your web browser and hit enter.)
How come you never hear about gruntled employees?
Min. Frank Coleman, Editor
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MSM CONNECTIONS is a periodic newsletter of announcements, news, recommendations, articles, and other information helpful to men in our spiritual growth. Thanks for welcoming MSM CONNECTIONS into your in-box!
Who to contact:
Minister Frank Coleman, Chair, 773-410-1483, [email protected]
Minister Arnold Whitehead, Vice Chair, 773-846-6090
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The mission of New Joy Divine Full Gospel Church is to be a Christ-Centered, Bible Based, Spirit Guided Church Meeting the Spiritual, Physical, and Emotional Needs of its Members and the Community it Serves.
The Men's Ministry Team offers a variety of activities for men to interact with other men on our journey of faith in Christ together. Large group, small group, and one-to-one events encourage relationship building and spiritual strengthening that result in maximizing the potential we all have in Christ. Contact Min. Frank Coleman, 773-410-1483, [email protected] if you'd like to participate in a men's discipleship program.
New Joy Divine Full Gospel Church is located at 7625 S. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60620.
Tel: 773-224-5683. Founded & Pastored by Apostle Aaron L. Royster & Prophetess Mable L. Royster.
Visit our website at www.newjoydivine.org
<a href="http://www.newjoydivine.org"> AOL users click here</a>
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