Virtual Connections, Real Impact

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In 1898, U.S. troops wearing blue coats were easy targets during the Spanish-American War. To conceal themselve, they put mud on their uniforms to blend in with the surroundings. This was one of the first attempts to camouflage by the US Military. By definition, camouflage is a type of military deception to hide and protect soldiers and equipment from the enemy. Today, the most common camouflage technique is concealment by using colors, patterns, and shading to alter physical characteristics. As a result, troops can easily hide, blend in, and disguise the appearance of military targets.
Follow along with me for a couple minutes as we consider the thought of camouflage from a spiritual perspective. First of all to camouflage something means that the outside appears different than what's underneath. If you are a born again child of God, what does your life reveal?  Do you put on the outward Christian face while secretly disobeying God and walking the way of the world?
The book of Joel shares God’s strong encouragement to the wayward children of Israel: “Return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments” In Bible days, people expressed sorrow by tearing rending their clothes. Everyone who saw them knew they were grieving. If someone wanted to demonstrate their repentance and sorrow over their sin, they would publicly tear their clothes.
There is a different way of restoring a broken relationship with God today. I encourage  you to consider the biblically based response. It’s a rending of your heart. You must see your sin as God sees it and humble yourself in confession and repentance. Take off the religious camouflage and be genuine before God with your life. Return to the Lord your God today with sincerity and purity. 

Anthony Jarret

Pornography is a pervasive issue in today's society, affecting millions of people worldwide. It's a topic that's often shrouded in secrecy and shame, but it's essential to address it head-on, especially from a biblical perspective.

What is Pornography? Pornography refers to the depiction of erotic or sexual behavior intended to stimulate sexual excitement. This can include images, videos, writings, or other forms of media.

Why Shouldn't We Involve Ourselves with Pornography?

1. Addiction: Pornography can be highly addictive, leading to compulsive behavior and negative impacts on mental and physical health.

2. Objectification: Pornography often objectifies and dehumanizes individuals, especially women, reducing them to mere objects for sexual gratification.

3. Damage Relationship: Pornography can damage relationships, leading to intimacy issues, trust problems, and emotional distress.

4. Desensitization: Regular consumption of pornography can desensitize individuals to its harmful effects, leading to a decrease in empathy and an increase in aggressive behavior and loss of confidence.

What Does the Bible Say About Pornography?While the Bible doesn't explicitly mention pornography, it does address related issues
1. Matthew 5:27-28: "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
Having a lustful thought is sin, standing in God’s court you will be guilty as charged. There is no possible way one can indulge in this act without the use of sensual graphical help, and thus making one to see what he or she is not supposed to see and with time it dwells in you mind rent free.

2. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20: "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?"
Pastor Esa Obuluwa explains masturbation as Gently raping oneself. Intimacy is not solo, it is done between two people. Couples, it is between a man and his wife, God’s will is for us to go into matrimony pure without defiling ourselves. Pornography will only increase a burning and wrong desires in one’s heart and bringing sinful imagination that will lead to action.There is a high rate of Children being sexually abused by trusted relatives, neighbors and friends of the family.

3. Ephesians 5:3-4: _"But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place."

4. “1 Thessalonians 4:3-7: "It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God."

Pornography is a harmful and addictive behavior that can have severe consequences on individuals and relationships. The Bible teaches us to flee from sexual immorality, to treat our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, and to avoid any hint of sexual immorality.
If you're struggling with pornography addiction or know someone who is, seek help from a trusted pastor, counselor, or support group. There is hope for freedom and healing. And we are here to help you overcome this sin.

Talk to us today!

1 Timothy  6:6-8  (KJB 1611)But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
The ways of the Lord are uniquely different from the ways of man. This scripture speaks volume about many things that people have gotten twisted.Some feel that trying to live a good life will grant them acceptance before God in this life, and subsequently a home in heaven here after. God's word expressly states that salvation is not of works, and not as result of how good we are. Ephesians  2:9 "Not of works, lest any man should boast." Romans  3:12 "They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one." Others pursue illegitimate gain. Greed becomes the controlling factor in their lives. Proverbs  15:27  "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live." This great combination recorded in our text should never be overlooked, but rather embraced wholeheartedly. The distinction between the important and  unimportant when it comes to furtherance of the gospel and our Christian faith is very crucial. Materialism seems to be on the driving seat in our world, relegating godliness and contentment to the background. This pastoral epistle underscores the relevance of focusing on godliness and contentment with the solemn counsel that :".. we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out." v, 7.
The realization and appreciation of the worthlessness of material acquisitions in relation to our promised eternal home is pertinent and sacrosanct. Contentment is a virtue that is being echoed directly or indirectly  throughout the  Holy scriptures.Philippians  4:11 " Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." As believers, we have every reason to be content for God has been so good to us.Hebrews  13:5  "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." The encouragement given here if adhered to will indeed change our perspective of life towards godliness and contentment. ".. having food and raiment let us be therewith content" v. 8
Thought
May we be dedicated to godly living with contentment rather than live our lives for  mundane and self centered reasons . Godliness and contentment is indeed great gain. This is God's Way.
©️Missionary Pastor David Orus(1 Thessalonians 5 :24/Mark 9:23)

Proverbs  15:1, 2 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.  The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
It is quite interesting that our Lord contrasts the tongue of the wise with the mouth of fools. This gives us a choice to decide which camp we belong in. That which seriously should matter to us is that the wrong use of words can be devasting, disastrous, downright dangerous, and very hurtful. We should watch what we say, why we say it, and how we say it. We ought to speak with wisdom and not as fools. Proverbs  12:18  There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.
James warns in the third chapter of James about the destructive nature of an untamed tongue. "And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. "James 3:6 . With the wisdom of God, we can control what we say, how we say it, and why we say it. If left to go uncontrolled the tongue will destroy all in its path faster than a wrecking ball!
Thought
May we realize that acting wisely in our speech is the best way to go so we can respond with a soft answer to anyone and everyone.
©️Missionary Pastor David Orus(1 Thessalonians 5:24/Mark 9:23)

There is something about a sunny day. When you walk outside into the sun, you can get that warm hug kind of a feeling. Sunlight releases serotonin, the happiness hormone in your brain, boosts your bone health, and actually might help treat several skin conditions as long as you don't have over exposure.Think with me for a few minutes as I share with you a few benefits of Son Light. Yes, Jesus said about Himself; "Iam the light of the world" Spending time in the presence of Jesus is beneficial spiritually! You can get that warm hug kind of a feeling when you sincerely worship Him. Being in the warm presence of the Son of God renews your heart and releases a peace and a joy that words can't fully explain. You will truly be glowing spiritually when you step into the light of God.Moses went up Mount Sinai to speak with God. When he came down the mountain, his face was brilliant, literally shining. It was so dazzling, in fact, that when the Israelites saw it, they were so terrified, that Moses had to veil his face. There is a glow and a shine that you will have when you expose yourself to pure Son Light today. People will notice when you have the glow of God.  #bible

When you approach a military base or a gated community you must be given access to enter the gate. Once you enter, you can participate in the activities on base or visit friends or family in a community. It begins with you having the authority to enter at the gate.

Let's take a couple minutes and view this thought in light of the Bible. In Psalm 100 we find these words; "Enter into His gates with Thanksgiving" The psalmist is inviting you into a deeper intimacy and a more meaningful way to connect with God. The word “enter” means to come, bring in, gather, or lead in. God is the one inviting you to enter His gates. The gate is open to everyone however; anyone that is redeemed according to the scriptures has access to enter!

As a child of God, you should approach the presence of God, with thanksgiving, recognizing how much God has done for you. Be thankful that you have such a privilege; and when you enter corporate worship or private prayer, praise him for the permission to be in His presence.

When you know and accept by faith that Christ died to pay the price of your sins and is risen to give you life immortal, praise will swell within your heart. A truly thankful heart expresses itself in praise. Thanksgiving and praise merge when the people of God recognize the everlasting goodness of Almighty God. I encourage you to give thanks to Him and bless His name. Please know that the Lord is good all the time, His lovingkindness is everlasting, and His faithfulness endures throughout all generations. As Thanksgiving Day approaches,  "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands"

Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

[6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Do not let the worries and anxieties of your mind control you. With thanksgiving, bring your problems before the One True Almighty God. He is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9: 6). God promises to give you His peace which is a greater peace than any you may find on earth if you trust in Him. God Himself will guard your heart and mind through Christ Jesus our Lord!

Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year.  Time with family and friends, special seasonal foods and treats, and gift giving and receiving all add to the warm memories of past Christmases.  

We celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus.  But Who is Jesus?  To find out, let’s look to the Scriptures.

1. Jesus is the Son of God.  John 20:30-31. And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.  Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.  Mark 3:11 And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God.
2. Jesus is God the Father.  Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.  John 10:30 I and my Father are one.  John 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
3. Jesus is the Saviour.  Luke 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  John 4:42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.   Acts 5:31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.  

God gave us the greatest gift when He gave us His Son.  Gifts can be accepted or rejected.  Many people acknowledge the fact of Jesus Christ’s existence, but have never received the gift of the salvation that He offers to all.  Only those who see themselves as needing a Saviour are willing to accept what Jesus did for all mankind in their place.  

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Christmas is about giving.  God gave us His best.  Won’t you accept God’s gift?

Building Virtual Community: Connecting Military Members Online

The internet has revolutionized the way people connect, and when it comes to the military community, the need for a strong, connected network is even more crucial. Military members, veterans, and their families can benefit significantly from a well-built online community that offers support, information, and camaradeship around the clock, irrespective of where they are stationed. Here is a guide to effectively building and nurturing such virtual communities:

• Create an Inclusive Platform

  Developing an inclusive online community begins with the platform you choose. Ensure that the platform is accessible on various devices, including mobile phones, tablets, and desktop computers, to accommodate the diverse tech accessibilities of military members around the world. The platform should also be easy to navigate and secure, with a focus on protecting the users' information, given the sensitive nature of military service.

• Establish Clear Guidelines

  Clear community guidelines help maintain decorum and ensure that all members feel safe and respected. These rules should promote constructiveness, respect, and a non-judgmental approach to sharing. It is also important to clearly communicate these guidelines to all members and enforce them consistently.

• Encourage Frequent Interaction

  For a virtual community to thrive, frequent interaction is key. Organize regular online events or discussions that cater to the interests of the community. These could include professional development workshops, mental health seminars, or casual meet-and-greets. Such activities not only keep the community active but also provide valuable resources to the members.

• Provide Diverse Communication Tools

  Different people prefer different means of communication. Some may prefer forums, whereas others might lean towards instant messaging or video calls. Providing a variety of communication tools ensures that all members of the community have the chance to engage in a manner that is most comfortable for them, thereby enhancing participation and connection.

• Appoint Community Managers or Moderators

  Having dedicated moderators or community managers who are consistently present helps in managing the platform effectively. They can mediate discussions, provide support, and ensure the community remains focused on its goals. Ideally, moderators should be empathetic and well-acquainted with military life to effectively address and understand the specific issues that can arise in such communities.

• Foster a Supportive Environment

  Building a supportive environment involves more than just moderating negative interactions. It includes fostering positivity and support through encouragement and recognition programs, motivational content, and opportunities for members to offer and receive help. Highlighting success stories or testimonials can also significantly boost morale and a sense of community.

• Focus on Privacy and Security

  Given the nature of military work, privacy and security are paramount. Ensure that the online platform adheres to the highest standards of security, including data encryption and secure user authentication. Regular audits and updates to the security infrastructure can also help protect the members' sensitive data.

• Encourage Real World Meetups

  While the community is virtual, real-world interactions can significantly strengthen bonds. Organizing meetups for local groups, when safe and feasible, can enhance the sense of community. Additionally, promoting family involvement can provide further support and community connection for military members.

• Leverage Technology for Accessibility

  Utilize technology not just for communication but also for making the platform more accessible. This includes features like text-to-speech for visually impaired users or language translation services to accommodate members from different linguistic backgrounds. Incorporating such technologies can make the community more inclusive and accessible to all members.

• Continuously Gather Feedback

  Lastly, an effective online community is not static. It evolves based on the needs and feedback of its members. Regularly gathering feedback through surveys, suggestion boxes, or open forums can help identify areas for improvement and new ideas for community engagement. Responding to feedback and making changes accordingly also shows the members that their opinions are valued, further strengthening the community bond.

In conclusion, building a virtual community for military members involves thoughtful planning and sustained effort. By focusing on inclusivity, engagement, and support, such a community can serve as a vital resource and a source of comfort for military personnel regardless of their location. As we continue to advance technologically, the potential to support and connect our military through online platforms grows, providing them with a stable network of peers and advisors who understand the unique challenges of military life.

Poet Walter B. Knight wrote:
God is Before me, He will be my guide;God is Behind me, no ill can betide;God is Beside me, to comfort and cheer;God is Around me, so why should I fear?
A poem is a piece of writing in which the words are chosen for their beauty, powerfully vivid ideas and sound and are carefully arranged, often in short lines that rhyme.
If you are a child of God, He has prepared you for what He desires for you to do. You are His workmanship. The greek word workmanship is the word poiema. Language scholars say that our English word poetry came from this word. To put it simply, you are God's poem! He has expressed Himself in a beautiful and powerful way through you.
You were individually crafted by Almighty God and you are valuable. Step into your day today with confidence not, in pride but in humble reverence knowing that God cares and is with you every step of the way. Nothing you do today is unimportant. God is keenly interested in the smallest detail. You don’t need a greater calling; you may just need more strength to comprehend the wonders of His amazing love for you.
Keep in mind today that you are His poem. You are the vivid expression of His image and you are the rhythm of His heart . God loves you. Smile. 🙏

It started with Blockbuster Entertainment in late 1994. Later in 1995, the test marketing for the first gift cards started. Blockbuster gift cards replaced gift certificates that were around since the 1930s, but they were being counterfeited with recently introduced color copiers and color printers. The U.S. gift card market will generate $324.5 billion in revenue in 2024. 47% of American adults have unused gift cards and the total value of these unspent funds in the U.S. is around $23 billion.
All Bible believing Christians have the beautiful gift of prayer. You can talk to God as His child. Prayer helps you gain an understanding of God's loving nature and its God's way for you to receive what you need from Him. What an honor to be able to approach God and talk to Him.
God wants to hear from you often. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, God commands us to pray continually. He wants you to bring your requests to Him with a spirit of humility and trust. He wants you to trust Him, allowing Him to give you the good He has for you as a gift in His perfect time.
Please know that God truly loves you, but He won't allow himself to be used to serve envy and ambition. When you don't ask God or when you ask Him with the wrong motive, it's much like an unredeemed gift card. There are heavenly blessings that you have access to, but you aren't claiming. Pray faithfully with a clean heart and redeem God's blessings and direction in your life. 🙏🏾