Pastor's Notes

WHY THE BRIDE STIRS THE HEART OF THE GROOM? "WITH HER LOOKS!"

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:25:00 +0000

9 …thou hast ravished my heart (that is stirred my heart with affection.) with one of thine eyes, with one chain of thy neck. (notice the emphasis…“with one of thine eyes.”)

One is singular. This is important in regards to the word of Jesus in Matthew 6:22, “The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.”

When the eyes of an individual are normal, both are directed toward a given object at the same time, which means that the eye is “single/one.” Which means it is seeing but one object.

The heart of the bride “stirs the heart of the groom” because her focus is on him. Her attention is on him as her sole lover not others.

C.H. Spurgeon wrote, “Where the eyes look the feet soon follow!” Such is the case with the eye of the bride. Her focus is on her groom and her feet will follow.

Hebrews 12:2, we’re commanded to “look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…” Looking to any other will lead to disappointment, discouragement and ultimately defeat.

The discipline of a faithful bride will be to “focus entirely” on her groom. Such is the spiritual requirement for the bride of Christ. We must focus on our groom, “Jesus Christ!”

When our focus is centered on Him, His heart is stirred with affection towards us greatly!

Next blog we’ll consider “Why the Bride stirs the heart of the Groom with Her love!” So until my next blog confabulation….God bless!

WHY THE BRIDE STIRS THE HEART OF THE GROOM? HIS CALL ... "COME WITH ME"

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:15:00 +0000

Song of Solomon chapter 4, verses 8 through 15, give the setting of the Bride and Grooms love for each other and describes in intimate detail by King Solomon as to what she was in “capturing and stirring” his heart.

Such pure love is demonstrated in their relationship and is perfect in describing the love the church, which is the bride of Christ, is to have for the Groom, which is Jesus Christ.

Solomon starts by calling for his bride to “come with me.” (Song of Solomon 4:8)

This is the call of Jesus to those who are willing to become a part of His bride, the church. Jesus calls for people, individually, to “come with me.”

The King wanted his bride to leave those things behind that brought her pleasure as well as fear, so Jesus wants His Bride to not let the things of this life; the deceitful pleasures and the unfulfilling enticements of this world, to stop us from following Him. He doesn’t want us to let the uncertainty of the unfamiliar to stop us from pursuing this life of commitment to Him and with Him.

Jesus bids us to come to Him: "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

We are told to come with Him and walk so as to please Him: “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing…” (Colossians 1:10, NLT)

We are bid to come with him and talk with Him: “You haven't done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.” (John 16:24, NLT)

We are bid to come with Him and work with Him: “For we are labourers together with God…” (1 Corinthians 3:9, KJV)

We are bid to come to with Him and make Him a priority in our lives: “Anyone who comes to me but refuses to let go of father, mother, spouse, children, brothers, sisters — yes, even one's own self! — can't be my disciple. Anyone who won't shoulder his own cross and follow behind me can't be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26-27, MSG)

Just as the King called for the Shulamite Bride to “come with me” so Jesus Christ is calling me and you to come to Him, surrender our lives, wills, dreams, hopes, past failures, present struggles and future aspirations; we are to yield them all to Him and follow Him.

Why does Jesus want anything at all to do with me and you? We’re nothing but “earthen vessels.” Vessels marred because of sinful choices, cracked by foolish behavior and broken because of selfish desires; yet, He calls for us to “come with Him.”

The reason is NOT what we are by our sinful nature, but because of WHAT WE CAN BECOME, when we have a sincere and authentic relationship with Him.

What is His motive for wanting us to “come with Him?” Song of Solomon 4:9 gives the answer, as a matter of fact, repeats the motive twice, “You have ravished my heart!”

Remember the word “ravished” means “you have stirred with affection!”

Next blog we’ll consider “Why the Bride stirs the heart of the Groom with Her looks!” So until my next blog confabulation….God bless!

WHY THE BRIDE STIRS THE HEART OF THE GROOM, vs13-15

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:43:00 +0000

13)Thy plants are an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire, with spikenard, 14) Spikenard and saffron; calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense; myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices: (King Solomon continues to praise his wife because she has saved herself for him and him alone. Like choice fruits, namely the “orchard of pomegranates” and the costly perfumes of their day, she has saved herself. The physical intimacy of their wedding night will be as “priceless” as the special perfumes they knew in their day. He mentions seven different kinds of spices or perfumed ingredients that was very popular in their day. Such perfumes were very expensive, yet, in his mind, she having saved herself for him, is so valuable to him. The use of the seven particular means of fragrances is important as to the number seven. Seven in Bible typology means perfection and completion. He, as well, admires her for being chaste and pure which is the “completing” of the love for each other. They are complete in their purity and love for each other.)

15) A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon. (like waters from fountains and flowing streams of the mountains give refreshments and satisfaction, King Solomon’s bride brought him satisfaction.

With the various verses of Song of Solomon chapter 4 and verses 13-15 being broken down in an way we could understand more fully, over the next few days I will be sharing thoughts regarding “Why the Bride Stirs the Heart of the Groom?”

Until my next blog confabulation…God bless!

WHY THE BRIDE STIRS THE HEART OF THE GROOM, vs11-12

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:55:00 +0000

11 Thy lips, O my spouse, drop as the honeycomb: (King Solomon draws on the analogy of the honeycomb that was often a source of sustenance and food. It was a food that brought pleasure. To him he says her kisses were like honeycombs.) honey and milk are under thy tongue; (Often in their day, they would bake a cake that was made with goat’s milk, honey and poppy seed and it would serve something similar to what we call a “piece of candy” in our language. Possibly, as some means of “breath mint.” King Solomon states that not only does her kisses bring him pleasure, but so do the words that she speaks. They are pleasant as the “candy” eaten under the tongue.) and the smell of thy garments is like the smell of Lebanon. (Lebanon was known for its trees of cedars. Historians have written that the fragrance of the cedar trees was so strong that when the wind blew through the trees often people could smell a pleasant fragrance. Here King Solomon says that he is pleased with her wedding gown. It is beautiful and that it was perfumed with a greater fragrance than the trees of Lebanon.)

12 A garden enclosed is my sister, my spouse; a spring shut up, a fountain sealed. (in this verse King Solomon describes the “chastity” and “purity” of his bride. The word “garden” means a “covered or hidden place.” In Biblical times, a garden was a walled inclosure, a place of shade and refreshment. The use of the words “spring shut up, a fountain sealed” refer to the custom of the owner of a well sealing it off from others using it to draw water because of the scarcity of water. IT was the possession of its owner. To understand why King Solomon refers to his bride as a “garden enclosed” and a “spring shut up, a sealed fountain,” is his descritption and comparison of her being a virgin on their wedding night. She had not given her virginity away; and like a “garden enclosed,” she had saved herself for her husband and like a spring shut up or a fountain sealed, she was King Solomon’s and King Solomon’s only. She was his bride. She had respected herself and remained pure and chaste for her wedding night. If you’ll go back and read Proverbs 5:15, King Solomon tells his son to “drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.” In that particular passage he is talking about the husband/wife relationship. When you read this particular passage, in verse 18, he mentions that a man is to rejoice with the wife of his youth; or the wife that he has since his youth; In other words, King Solomon is advocating the importance of a monogamous relationship. One man with one woman.)

My blog confabulation will continue tomorrow…until then…God bless!

WHY THE BRIDE STIRS THE HEART OF THE GROOM: vs, 8-10

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

In the following blogs, I am going to pick up where I left off on previously with the Song of Solomon. If you’ve intentionally been reading these thoughts, and since it’s been some time that I’ve blogged on these thoughts, or it is by happen chance you’ve came upon this blog, I invite you to go to the sidebar labeled “topics” and click on Song of Solomon and spend time reading the previous blogs so you can get a much clearer picture of what is being written. (It’s only a suggestion.)

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8 Come with me from Lebanon, my spouse; with me from Lebanon: (King Solomon, on the night of their wedding, expresses his desire for his Shulamite bride, by calling for her to leave her home, which was in Lebanon, and come with him. He calls for her to leave those things that reminded her of the beauty of her homeland. He says,) look from the top of Amana, from the top of Shenir and Hermon, (these were the mountains of her homeland. Often decorated with snow caps, they were beautiful to look on. He then calls her to leave what was dangerous in her homeland…) from the lions' dens, from the mountains of the leopards. (lions and leopards roamed where she lived and he calls for her to leave, both what was beautiful and dangerous and come and with him.)

9 Thou hast ravished my heart, (the word “ravished” in our meaning today is often used in a negative sense of meaning “to seize or to violate.” Yet, in the Hebrew writings, this word “ravished” means “to stir the heart with affection.” So, in the meaning of the word, he says, “You have stirred my heart with affection….) thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse; (the term “my sister” was often used in Eastern countries as a description of one’s affection. Of course, she wasn’t his sister; but he described his love for her in a powerful manner of affection. With affection he speaks to her and addresses her as his spouse or his bride and declares;) thou hast ravished my heart (that is stirred my heart with affection.) with one of thine eyes, with one chain of thy neck. (her look and adornments, of which she wore, stirred his affections for her.)

10 How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! (the use of the word “fair” describes the “beauty and excellence she has.) how much better is thy love than wine! (he compares her love to be better than wine, the best of wine. In the Bible, often the use of the word “wine” is a reference of two illustrations: (1) great luxury and (2) great refreshment. To King Solomon, his bride’s love is greater than any means of worldly luxury and greater than any means of refreshment that he could afford from the world’s value and standpoint.) and the smell of thine ointments than all spices! (the fragrance of her ointments, that she was wearing, to him, is better than all the spices of the land that may be known to bring pleasure.)

My blog confabulation will continue tomorrow….come back…until then….God bless!

An Irish Prayer!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:24:00 +0000

May those who love us, love us;
And those who don’t love us,
May God turn their hearts;
And if He doesn’t turn their hearts,
May He turn their ankles?
So we’ll know them by their limping.

A good prayer to start the week!

Until my next blog confabulation…..God bless!

Nothing In Your Life Needs To Be Wasted!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 03:06:00 +0000

Consider this statement written by Christian author Judith Pella:

"Even side journey's can be important instruments of growth. All the detours I've taken have only made my life that much richer with life experiences. In God's economy, nothing in your life needs to be wasted."

How true.

Experience confirms such.

Only can God, our Heavenly Father, take the bad and the ugly in our life and use it as an instrument of growth!

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

All That Really Matters!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 04:59:00 +0000

It's late....quiet, other than the hum of my small fan...and I am thinking...dangerous for me....but its safe!

This weeks started out with the death of a 98 year old meeting eternity and it came to a close with the birth of a baby boy. Two extremes, yet continuous in the cycle of life.

But all that really matters about both ends of the extremes.....death and life....is being prepared for eternity....being prepared to meet God face to face.

One who died, among many who met eternity this week, spent there life getting ready for that moment that came. The one born today starts this journey of getting prepared.

We all have an appointment with death (Hebrews 9:27), but none of us know when we will be called to meet that date.

This should prompt us all to order our priorities. To the few it does, to the many it don't. I know because as a pastor I see so many that live careless and unconcern, not to even began to describe the ones who know better but live as though its a fable.

How do I know?

They wouldn't focus their time and energy on things that quickly pass and that will carry no eternal significance whatsoever.

What really matters is being prepared to meet the Lord.

So let me empty my heart just a minute...STOP being jealous over peoples success, promotions or honor from the Lord; STOP being judgmental about those who have failed (there go you or I but for the grace of God); STOP being a .................................................................well....STOP being so earthly minded that we don't even consider eternity. We needs to turn our hearts towards home...that is our heavenly home. Consider what really matters....getting ready to meet Christ!

Until my next blog confabulation...God bless!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

The National Day of Blasphemy!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 02:44:00 +0000

Today, September 30, has been set aside by the Center for Inquiry, as the National Day of Blasphemy.

Dr. Albert Mohler, the president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, on his blog http://www.albertmohler.com/2009/09/25/why-do-the-heathen-rage-international-blasphemy-day/ writes, The choice of September 30 looks back to that date in the year 2005, when the publication of cartoons depicting the prophet Muhammad's face sparked outcry and protests in the Muslim world and threats toward the West. Now as Religion News Service reports, the Center for Inquiry is planning a day of observances to mark the occasion. Ron Lindsay, a lawyer who serves as president of the Council for Inquiry International, said that the day was part of the group's effort to expose religious beliefs to investigation. In the words of the RNS report, the goal is "to expose all religious beliefs to the same level of inquiry, discussion and criticism to which other areas of intellectual interest are subjected."

The sad fact of this groups endeavors was the planned "blasphemy contest." They invite participants to submit phrases, poems, or statements that would be, or have been, considered blasphemous. The winners will receive a t-shirt and mug.

On their website, they give the INSTRUCTIONS: “You may damn yourself to Hell however you would like, but somewhere in your video you must say this phrase: "I deny the Holy Spirit." Why? Because, according to Mark 3:29 in the Holy Bible, "Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of an eternal sin." Jesus will forgive you for just about anything, but he won't forgive you for denying the existence of the Holy Spirit. Ever. This is a one-way road you're taking here.” (http://www.blasphemychallenge.com/)

It is my sincere hope that these individuals are doing what they are doing out of ignorance rather than malicious intent. I can't know the hearts intent only God. (Jeremiah 17:9-10)

However, the danger of such behavior does carry eternal consequences. Blaspheming the Holy Spirit is dangerous and unforgivable based on the following biblical passages:

Without the Holy Spirit no person can experience the New Birth. "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." (John 3:3-6)

The Holy Spirit is the agent involved in ones submission to acknowledging Jesus Christ as Lord! "Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost." (1 Corinthians 12:3)

The Holy Spirit is the means where by men are made aware of their need of salvation because they are convicted of their sins by the work of the Person of the Holy Spirit. "And when [the Holy Spirit] is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on me; Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged." (John 16:8-11)

My prayer is that the Holy Spirit they blaspheme is done out of ignorance because their understanding needs to be enlightened. (Ephesians 1:18). And, "...the god of this world [Satan] hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." (2 Corinthians 4:4)

I pray the Holy Spirit will break through the darkness of their mind and soften their heart to know the God they seek to blaspheme through satyr, criticism, cartoon, or whatever…that they may know He Love Them. John 3:16 is still the heart of the gospel…."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."

And for those who seek to be swift to past judgment on these dear souls as beyond the reach of God's redemptive power, may these two passages give us guidance: "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) And Hebrews 7:25, "Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them."

Until my next blog confabulation…God bless!

Happy Birthday!!!!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 02:01:00 +0000

Today is my daughter's 17th birthday.

How well do I remember this night 17 years ago at 7:27pm on 9/29/92....this little bundle of joy was added to the Douglas home. She had a head full of black curly hair and was a delight to have as an addition to our home. Her "big brother" was glad to have and even though they've had their "little disagreements" over the years, he still like for her to know he is the "big brother."

However, me and her mother are very proud of her. She is working hard in school and has goals set before her she is endeavoring to achieve. More than anything, that makes us proud parents, his her stand for Christ. She loves the Lord with all of her heart and seeks to honor Him faithfully and sincerely.

We went out and at seafood tonight; her mother, myself and her and her boyfriend (cookie-monster) and we had a great time. We laughed and enjoyed the time together. She loves oysters and was able to have some; of course so did daddy. She receive a lot of text messages today from friends wishing her a special day along with calls from family. One special treat...or two I should say, was the call from her Grandaddy Douglas who sung to her.....He wished her a Happy Buthday....you'd have to hear it to understand his lingo. And the second treat was the flowers....I'll share that for another time.

So to my daughter, who is very special to me....Happy Birthday...I love you!

Until my next blog confabulation.....God bless!

The Progressive Touch of God!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 03:18:00 +0000

I preached tonight at a church that is holding revival with various ministers preaching each night.

I had been invited to come and in prayer felt the Lord direct me to Daniel chapter 10, In this chapter, with Daniel an elder statesman, he has an encounter with God in a powerful way. Beside the Tigris river, after three weeks of intense prayer, the answer to his praying came. Weak from fasting and wrestling in prayer he received a touch from God. It was a progressive touch. Three separate times he was touched, that resulted in a positive response in his life.

Friend, know God is real! He will touch your life if you seek Him. He will make Himself real to you....by a progressive touch. A touch that will pick you up from lying face first in the dirt; then a touch that enables one to speak with a testimony; it progresses to a touch where you are given strength. A touch that grants you strength to obey....strength to endure.

May you allow God to touch you by His Spirit in a powerful and personal way.

Until my next blog confabulation...God bless!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

What should I have done differently today?

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 03:51:00 +0000

The lights are turned off, the A/C adjusted, all the toilets flushed (?), hope so...and the doors locked.

Another Sunday is history. The rush of the week brought me to this Lord's day with such a hurry it is head spinning how fast the week has went.

From visiting the sick in the hospitals, counseling the concerned, preparing three messages, attending leadership meetings, deacon board meeting, doing catch up at the church office, attending a funeral, going on a 2 day trip with the Senior Adults of our church I found myself blowing in the morning worship like the dust storm that recently occurred in Australia.

I set on the platform, bible in one hand, notes in the other and felt so weak, ill prepared and tired.

I preached my heart both services. Don't misunderstand me, I'm honored, humbled and grateful to be a gospel preacher. It's a great blessing to declare the truths of God's Word. I preached this morning from Luke 5 on "The Healing of the Paralyzed Man." Tonight I preached the second message in the series on "Growing Deeper in Christ-Learning to be Content!"

In both services the Holy Spirit moved in a precious way, especially during the time of our altar service.

What should I have done differently today?

(1) I should have spent more time in prayer seeking God's wisdom and the Holy Spirit's anointing. Oh how I know I should have.....

(2) I should have given more quality effort to the preparation of the messages I delivered today.

What should I have done differently today? Prayed more....waited in His presence longer before I went before the people.

Why?

Communion with Jesus brings the anointing for effective ministry.

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

What was the most helpful thing that I read today?

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 04:42:00 +0000

What was the most helpful thing that I read today?

In my time of Bible reading this morning, I read the passage of Scripture in Jeremiah 20:9, "Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay."

I like the rendering from the Amplified Bible, "If I say, I will not make mention of [the Lord] or speak any more in His name, in my mind {and} heart it is as if there were a burning fire shut up in my bones. And I am weary of enduring {and} holding it in; I cannot [contain it any longer]."

How well do I know that you can't shrug off the call of God!

No matter how we may busy ourselves or run from it….we can never out run; out smart; out do the call that God places on ones life to preach the gospel.

There has never been a man or woman run from the call of God and succeed. You can't!

The call is carried to one's grave. The "specific" touch God gives to a person is unique in that God's invests His design and desire to declare His Word in a person regardless of their talents (though He uses them, but they aren't a qualification, by any means.) In the infinite wisdom of a omnipotent God, the mystery of His wisdom has chosen "vessels of clay" to declare the infallible and forever settled truths to fallen men.

Why is it that a Holy God would so choose to lay His hand in and upon the mind and heart of human beings to "preach?" I don't have the answer that is probably correct…but I do have a suggestion as to why I believe He's chosen me…all I can identify with is "passion."

It's like Jeremiah said, "a fire shut up in my bones." I can't refrain from declaring the truth of God's Word. The fire is put there by His will and the passion to keep it stirred is by my desire!

So to you who may have stumbled upon this blog, and you are running from the call of God on your life….read this closely….stop running! You'll never out run the call and you only add to your misery trying to rebel against "holding it in!"

Preach…preach with passion….put all your concern in His hand and He will surely never leave nor forsake and will for certain, make a way; He never leaves His children forsaken or begging for bread.

The greatest preachers I've ever heard wasn't the most knowledgeable or the best verses or even blessed with the tongue of eloquence…but passion was in their heart and it was the driving force to do what they done for the fulfillment of the Call of God!

Until my next blog confabulation….God bless!

When was I most aware of the Lord today?

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 03:32:00 +0000

When was I most aware of the Lord today?

Fellowship!

Nothing can take the place of fellowship with friends. My wife and I were blessed tonight to fellowship with friends whose presence was a great blessing to be in.

The joy of "making time" for others in sharing, listening and conversing will encourage and bless bonds of Christian ties.

Tired in body but blessed in spirit. I have more memories of friends in genuine fellowship I can add to my journey of special blessings.

I have been reminded of the Lord today in the gift of friends, the purpose of friends and the strength of fellowship.

I see God"s presence in this because He delights in us fellow shipping with Him.

Treasure what means more than things....FRIENDS!

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Bowels of Compassion!!!!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 02:59:00 +0000

Today was one of those days where it seemed by "get up and go" had "got up and went." After the busy week and weekend, it seemed my energy was, well, on "turtle drive" if you know what that is!

Two gentlemen out of our church, along with myself, went and built a ramp for two elderly women. One of the women is near 90 and is mute and confined to wheelchair. We were able to construct the ramp in a few hours and glad to do so. It was humid and hot, but when completed, to have one of the elderly women comment on how much it meant and how much it would held, was worth all the heat, sweat and "sore muscles" I feel now.

John said "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?" (1 John 3:17)

Someone else had a need, and we were blessed to be able to share the love of God in a way that can surely help one in desperate need. I know some folk that it takes a lot to make them happy, much less to appreciate any thing, yet, there are those who very little makes them grateful and appreciative of anything. Such was the case today. The smile and words of gratitude was repay enough. My desire, along with the two men who "really done the work" felt a great sense of satisfaction that we were able to "share the love of Christ" to individuals who were really in need.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, I had my monthly deacon board meeting. I meet once a month with a group of dedicated men who help lead the church with dedication, sensitivity and love for the work of God. These men do much behind the scenes work and decisions to help carry on the business and ministry of the church, that often they fail to be truly recognized for the efforts, not to mention the "stressful" decisions that can come with the territory of their position.'

In our meeting tonight, I presented to them my desire to add to our current missions budget, two new missionaries for support. Without any hesitation, these men with unanimous vote, decided to take on the two missionaries, who will be serving in parts of the world that need to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a powerful, yet personal way. I comment these men for their dedication to the Great Commission of Christ. They have a heart for others to hear about the forgiving love, redemptive power and personal presence of Jesus Christ.

Both set of men, the two carpenters and the five board members, both exhibited "bowels of compassion." One met a physical need of helping another have access to the outside world, while the others, help to meet the spiritual need that will give others access to eternity with God through Jesus Christ!

To all seven men....thanks for letting the love of God be demonstrated through your "bowels of compassion!"

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!

WOW what a day!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 02:39:00 +0000

This morning started out slow...that is me moving very slow. It's been a very busy week with many activities and it seemed to all catch up with me physically this morning. However, as my wife often tells me, "Get out of bed, you're the pastor, you have to go to church!" I did.

What a move of God's presence we had in our Sunday morning worship service. I preached from the series that I'm doing at this time in Luke's gospel on the miracles of Jesus on the healing of the leper. My what an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The glory of the Lord came down and touch many lives.

I sensed the anointing in a powerful way in the service; it was of such an move of God that Holy Spirit conviction was heavy...heavy on many hearts. When I gave the altar call, many responded to seek the Lord. When it was all over with, five had accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. PRAISE THE LORD! Many others had also came to seek the Lord for help in issues they are facing, and likewise, PRAISE THE LORD, He moved in their lives as well.

It was truly a great blessing to witness on earth what angels rejoiced about in heaven...when a sinner repents and is born again of the Spirit of God! It's marvellous.

After church this morning, we left to be with my family to celebrate September birthdays. Four of my family members was born in the month of September. It was a good time of fellowship and the meal was delicious. As is always. My Dad just turned 73 and it was good to be able to be with him. His health is failing him, it's not easy to see him with his health failing, because he has always been the strong, vibrant and exuberant one of our family. But, as time does with age, it slows ones steps. However, it was great to be with Dad and Mom and my family. We had a great time together and enjoyed the time of laughter!

We made it back in time for the evening service. We had another great move of the Spirit of God. I began a series tonight on "Growing Deeper in Christ." I preached on "Growing Deeper in Christ...settling certain issues!" I preached on how that to grow in Christ we need to learn of Him. To be like Christ the only way is to exercise ourselves to godliness. Learning of Him leads to growth and growth in Christ leads to Christ likeness.

To learn and grow we must settle the issue of intentions, (having the intent to obey but never following through); we must settle the "on the spot" issue. This is where we often obey "on the spot" when it's convenient or easy rather than "24/7;" we mus settle the issue of "the yoke of Christ." His yoke is easy...because we are yoked with Him and in order for His yoke to be easy, we must not resist or revolt but yield ourselves in order to go His way and submit daily our lives to His Lordship.

I gave the altar call, asking for everyone to come and seek the Lord. What a precious move of God's Holy Spirit in our midst. I praise the Lord for His leading, moving and touch in the lives of people.

I stand amazed at the graciousness of the Holy Spirit to be poured out on "earthen vessels." But it's true, to the heart that hungers and thirsts, God will fill.

As a side note, should you be a pastor reading this...let me urge you...please don't hinder the Holy Spirit from moving in your altar services. Folk need that time to tarry in His presence in order to allow Him to "begin a good work" in their lives. Don't be afraid to let Him move in your services. He'll bless the people that are hungry and thirsty and those who don't won't Him to move in their lives...well...He won't!

So let me close with rejoicing in the goodness of the Lord. God is truly a faithful Lord and has blessed with His grace today in a magnificent way. I rejoice in the "saving grace" of Christ to forgive, cleanse and give His peace and joy to lives that feel they are beyond reach. Yes, He can save to the uttermost because HE EVER LIVES! Hallelujah!

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!

Preaching Revival Night 5

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 02:59:00 +0000

I left the small church tonight finished with my part, however the Holy Spirit is still present and has wonderful things in store for these precious people.

The pastor and his wife, Phil and Krissy, are precious people. They are truly a trophy of God's grace.

I preached on "Does prayer make a difference?"

I started out by addressing various reasons why prayer doesn't work for some. But, when hindrances to prayer are dealt with....prayer does make a difference.

Prayer makes a difference in the life of a sinner!

Prayer makes a difference in the life of the righteous!

Prayer makes a difference in the life of a church!

Prayer makes a difference in the life of family!

If you haven't tried prayer or practiced prayer....pray to the God who is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Until my next blog confabulation...God bless!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Preaching Revival Night 4

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 02:53:00 +0000

After a busy day of doing a much needed catch up, I headed out to preach the fourth night of the revival service.

Tired in body, yet encouraged in my heart, I was glad to have the opportunity once again to minister God's Word.

I preached on the "thirst of the satisfied soul." From my study of the Scriptures I found three areas a soul thirsty for God finds satisfaction.

They are:

The thirst of the satisfied soul knows the pleasures of the Lord. The thirst of the satisfied soul knows the best that God gives. The thirst of the satisfied soul knows the goodness of God.

Sounds simple...I know...but none-the-less, it is powerful. You can be satisfied in and with God.

The writer of Psalms admonished us to "delight ourselves in the Lord." How sad it is that so many doesn't know the joy of satisfaction in Christ.

Jesus invited us to come unto Him and He would give us rest...yes Jesus loves to give....give satisfaction to the thirsty soul.

Until my next blog confabulation...God bless!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Preaching Revival Night 3

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 03:39:00 +0000

The thirst for God is real and created by God. Ephesians 2:22 tells us that we all were created as a habitation of God through the Holy Spirit. The habitation of God's presence within us as earthen vessels is made a need by the thirst within.

I preached tonight in the third night of the revival meeting on the "thirst of the dry soul." The difference between the empty soul and the dry soul is that the empty soul has never tasted of God and doesn't know what it is missing, yet the dry soul has tasted of God and knows what it is missing.

The most devout and dedicates follower of Jesus Christ faces those season of "dryness" in ones spirit and heart. They come from various avenues and means and can be very difficult to walk through.

Elijah went through such a time of dryness; John the Baptist did and as well, the weeping prophet Jeremiah. Each of these men where godly, devoted and faithful to the will of God, but faced and experienced the moments of having a "dry soul."

You may may a devoted and committed disciple reading this and have found yourself feeling distant from the presence of God along with being weary from the challenges of various circumstances you have encountered. You don't just feel discouraged by the events you are facing but may feel God's abandoned you to the unpredictable of your trials.

Remember the words of Jeremiah; they are encouraging and will help to renew our thirst for God's presence in our life whether you may feel Him or not. "This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassion's fail not.They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:21-23)

Until my next blog confabulation.....God bless!

Preaching Revival Night 2

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 03:28:00 +0000

Just left the service after another great move of the Holy Spirit. The weather was much better tonight than on Monday night. It was rainy and foggy in places last night. Tonight we (my wife and I) saw a beautiful sunset. Truly a reminder of God's great handy work!

I preached on the subject of the "thirst of the empty soul." My what an anointing I sensed as I ministered. God's Spirit came with mighty conviction.

When I gave the altar call several responded to pray, but one lady was really touched and blessed by God's Spirit. As folks tarried in the altars praying, I watched as this dear lady wept and wept before the Lord broken in spirit seeking for the help of the Lord. God never turns away a thirsty soul.

Rest assured, friend, your soul is thirsty. However, if your soul is drinking from the temporary pleasures of fleshly desires, you will remain empty.

It's the gospel: YOU ARE COMPLETE (whole/satisfied/filled) IN CHRIST, that is a relationship in Jesus Christ as your Lord. (Colossians 2:10)

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Preaching Revival Mtg

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 04:02:00 +0000

Just finished preaching the first night of a revival meeting. God blessed in a precious way during the altar service. Several responded to seek the Lord in prayer. I am always amazed at how God will minister to a yielded heart. He does make Himself real.

I preached on the life of Job how God can take the trials of our life and in the end make them profitable. While going through them we sure can't put the puzzle together but if we let "patience" do its work...we will mature.

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

God at Work in All Kinds of Ways!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:00:00 +0000

It's been a very busy past week. With Labor Day being a great blessing, it did put me behind on a few project I was needing to get accomplished, however, that seems to be pretty common for me anyway.

God's answered a prayer for many of us this past week. A young girl in our church whose battling bone cancer, recieved notice from her doctor that the biopsy done on her back wasn't cancerous as previously thought. PRAISE THE LORD! What a relief to this family. She still has a long road ahead of her as she is undergoing treatment for the tumor in her knee. When you pray, please remember her in your prayers, her name is Amber. She is very courages and strong.

We closed this past week out with a marriage seminar done by Dr. Ken Finch. http://www.drfinch.net/ He really done a great job teaching to our married couples regarding the importance of communication and how to avoid what he called the "isolation cascade." It was a refreshing meeting in many aspects. I appreciate the couples that availed themselves of the meeting. Unfortunatley many couples don't feel they need marriage enrichment because they aren't having problems. That's good that they aren't having problems, however, I don't always go to the doctor because I am sick. Sometimes I go to keep from getting sick! You can figure that one out. But, what it does say to me and many of the children of the parents who did take the time to invest in their marraige is that the greatest tool any of us as married couples with children have to use is "example." Aimee and I have a good marriage...despite me being overweight...but I do hope my childlren will see we are setting an example of how important it is to us that we enrich our relationship as much as we can...so that one day when they get married, they will avail themsevles of the same....not becuase they have problems but hopefully...to prevent!

Sunday was a great weekend of worship services. In our evening service we had a couple from our church who when on a mission trip to Africa in July. They went for 3 weeks and shared the love of Christ in many facets. It was a powerful presentation. I appreciate Bro. and Sis. King for their service to the Lord as they do.

In one of the pictures, we were shown how that some of them had worn out shoes to walk to school, which was about 6 miles one way every day. One of the members of the congregation asked if the monies we had given them in July was able to help purchase shoes or just clothing and they said it was only for clothing. Well, the brother asked if he could give $100 to the purchase of shoes and would it be okay for others to help? I asked if there were any others who would like to assist in buying shoes for school children in Africa in the particular areas presented to us...and read closely...in less than three (3) minutes, $1,800 was given. DON'T TELL ME GOD AIN'T FAITHFUL!

God is true to His Word, "There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and [there is] thatwithholdeth more than is meet, but [it tendeth] to poverty.The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall bewatered also himself." (Proverbs 11:24-25)

God is so good!

Until my next blog confabulation...God bless!

His touch takes Jesus off the shelves of display…..

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

The week comes to a close, that is the work week and now I'm getting geared for the weekend. It's been a very busy week.

I was honored to have the opportunity to minister Thursday, (9/3/09) at our Council Meeting. This is where once a year all the ministers of our fellowship in Section 7, come together to conduct the sectional business and hear updates from our district leaders along with having time to fellowship with fellow comrades of the faith.

I was glad to be asked and endeavored to share my heart to the pastors/ministers that I serve to assist as presbyter. Mind you well, preaching to preachers is not like preaching to lay people. THERE IS A DIFFERENCE!!!! (no need to elaborate…some who read this will fully understand.)

However, it was a good day…tiring but very refreshing with regards to the meetings and services. I really enjoyed the pastor/board banquet this year. Our Assistant District Superintendant, Phil Edwards, done an outstanding delivery to those gathered. I was encouraged and so was everyone present by the truths conveyed regarding the work and duties of deacons and pastors when it comes to managing conflict in our churches. "Thanks Bro. Phil for the dynamic delivery and care from your heart that was sensed in a personal and powerful way!"

This past Wednesday night, (9/2/09) I continued the lesson from Mark 5 on Jairus coming to Jesus seeking His help to heal his sick daughter. I taught on "The Delay to Your Miracle." My what an outpouring of the Holy Spirit we had. God's presence came down in a precious way and ministered powerfully to everyone in the service.

I praise the Lord for His touch…nothing in this world can every compare to the wonderful and gracious touch of the Holy Spirit in our lives. If everyone could just know what it is to be touched by the unseen but real hand of God's Spirit! Let me assure you friend, His touch takes Jesus off the shelves of display and delicate framed pictures on our walls and makes Him a REAL SAVIOUR AND LORD!

Until my next blog confabulation….God bless!

Jesus went to the Mountain…I go to my recliner!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 02:15:00 +0000

Matthew 14:23 reads, "Jesus went up into a mountain apart to pray…"

He had had a busy day….ministering to people in various ways; He was tired and needed time alone…alone with His Father…probably to just sit in His presence!

I feel like doing that right now!

The past week has been unbelievably busy…..hospital visitations has been unusual than normal. Not the first time this has happened, but it has been a while since has been this hectic. Folk battling various sicknesses from lung illness, heart problems to cancer. All ages…old to young and in between. Sickness is no respecter of persons.

Counseling….I've had to make time to slip this in also. It seems so many have cares of all sorts. Important mind you…not the "ingrown toenail kind" but real issues that require support from prayer and God's Word.

Yet, I find myself tonight, tired….weak maybe to admit it but honest as I can be. Maybe some other pastor who stumbles on this short blog might be encouraged….we pastors are human and we do get tired…not tired of the ministry or tired of ministering to people…but tired from the exertion. I guess don't think we do since we only work "one and a half days a week." Whatever moron that came up with that thought has sniffed to much moon gas in my opinion.

But…..Jesus got tired…I'm glad He did. That makes me feel close to Him or….Him close to me!

He went to a mountain…His mountain He had made to rest and pray…I believe just to sit in His Father's presence.

I don't have a mountain…I wished I did…I sure go; But…I do have a recliner…it's mine and I'm there right now….it's raining outside…that sounds good….makes me sleepy but my body is too tired to go to sleep, if that makes sense…but I set here with tired body, drained mind…TV off, a fan blowing on me, my bible opened, too tired to read…at least it looks spiritual, but I'm setting in His presence. Yes, my recliner…..Matthew recorded it, "Jesus went up into a mountain apart to pray…" well, if it's okay to mention me…."Juno went up into his recliner apart to pray…praying is not just talking to my Father…but sitting in His presence…in my recliner!"

Until my next blog confabulation….God bless!

Will Return Soon!

junodouglas@yahoo.com (Pastor Juno Douglas) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:31:00 +0000

Planning to return very soon.

The past month has been very busy and hope to resume blogging shortly.

Thank you for your patience with me....I lost one follower to my blog, "sorry they feel they no longer need to read my blog...guess they got bored or impatient with my lack of blogging" however, I plan to resume soon. I have thoughts I want to continue sharing in regards to the Song of Solomon. Hope they'll bless you...but till then, don't hold your breath or do without food...just be patient and PRAY FOR ME...I covet your prayers.

Until my next blog confabulation....God bless!