Larry Lilly's Journal July 2016 Vol 16 Issue 7
Needed: Somebody Who Knows Something!
Since 1776 the 4th of July has been etched in the American psyche as a super special day. Yes, it is clearly understood that Katherine Lee Bates was on target in her poem when she penned the phrase, “God mend thine every flaw.” Many of the true flaws have mended and more are in the works.
The clear thinking American will recognize that what many are ranting about as flaws are in reality safe guards of liberty. A system that demands effort on the part of individuals is not flawed, but is using common sense. For instance, Heaven has walls to keep those who refuse God’s ways out. Nations will do well to emulate this principle. As part Native American who reads history I realize the terrible mistake of my native ancestors having open immigration laws.
This July 4th may be the bleakest in the entire span of my life. I was born into what became shortly after my grand entrance, WWII, with rationing of everything to the poor and unconnected, air raid drills, black window shades and old men trying to cheer us up on squawking radios. Those early years were serious as all of civilization literally hung in the balance.
We are near that bad off today, only God is holding back some wacked out politician from pressing a Nuclear Button while in a maniacal frenzy.
Back in another dark era of our history, Will Rogers said, “This would be a great time in the world for some man to come along that knew something.” (The more astute P.C. Police can see the misogynistic micro aggression in Roger’s opine).
So what are we, as Christians to be about in times like these? Paul, who lived and labored as an Apostle during the 1st Century noted in his letter to the young pastor, Timothy:
“1 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” 2Timothy 2:1-4.
The backdrop of the 1st Century AD is as dark as any period in the sum total of world history. Yet, Paul encourages the inhabitants of that era by issuing a stern call to Warrior life!
Instruction #1vs1
This is a call to remembrance of who you are; A son of God, to therefore be strong because of God’s grace to you in Jesus Christ. Being strong in Jesus is a requirement in Christian Warriors. Weak, watered down, filled with doubt warriors are only of any value in a class room setting.
Instruction #2 vs2
What with “Gender Neutral” bathrooms etc. now is not the time for Rhinestone Warriors. Spiritual Warriors must be men and women of valor, and of commitment. In recent times the idea of making firm commitment to a cause or in this case to Christ is really off the table. As a pastor for most of my adult life I know the mind numbing problem of finding and enlisting people as Paul instructed to train for the daily work of Christ. There are a number of traits that must be present if any person is to be effective in serving Jesus. These traits are in addition to being truly save. For service as a Warrior for Christ you must be, Availability, Dependability, and Capability.
Each of the above involve a determination to make wise choices involving time, priority and ability. The most effective Christian Warrior and the laziest each have only 24 hours a day. A choice must be made in how those hours are invested. You are as available as you truly want to be. Dependability is a matter of personal character/choice. Capability is discovering the Gifts that God imparts to every believer and serving within the framework of God’s plan for you.
Instruction #3 vs3
This one is tough on moderns as we have become soft while lying on flowery beds of ease. Note the MUST. No wiggle room is given. Period, pain, heartbreaking betrayal, loss of prestige, and fortune, must be endured, patiently, while we serve under severe pressure emanating from the evil forces of darkness. Most of the early church Apostles and disciples endured “hardships” beyond our current comprehension of suffering. The torture under Nero etc. makes the reign of Hitler appear as a Sunday picnic is understatement.
Hardship takes many forms, the loneliness of John on Patmos, the freezing existence of Paul in the Mamertine Prison, fighting the beasts at Ephesus, and being forsaken by Demas. None of the Apostles were strangers to horrific poverty, yet they endured with victory in their heart and heaven on their mind! In our current world, a deacon’s frown can cause a “warrior” of the cross to start packing and searching for a place that will appreciate him. He or she believes that they were made for adulation rather than suffering hardship.
Instruction #4 vs4
Most Warriors today are totally wrapped in Satan’s delusions, derailed by public opinion as well a misplaced duty. We, as Daniel said, “Run hither and yon” very busy cooperating with the Anti-Christ plan of “wearing out the saints.” (Dan 7:25). In the day of pleasing the P.C. Police, the Chamber of Commerce and certainly keeping the local educators happy with us, we have laid aside the admonition in verse four: 2Timothy 2:4 “No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” We are much too entangled to be effective Warriors! We must become “engaged” in the battle of the ages, the battle for the minds and hearts of men and women for Christ.
****LML.
Jim Garlow is a Nazarene minister who pastors the Skyline Church in La Mesa, California. He is also considered a Church History Expert. Excerpted from a Speech at NRB:
From 1607-1833, Bible believing Christians were the establishment of this nation. That is for 236 years!
From 1833-1918, we were the predominant force. That is only 85 years. Notice how these periods decrease rapidly.
From 1918-1968, the sub-dominant force was Bible believing Christians for about 50 years.
Then the big turning point came in the 60's, from 1968-1988 we were a sub-culture for 20 years.
From 1988-1998, Christianity became a counter culture for 10 years.
From 1998-2008, Christianity became an antithetical culture for 10 years.
And, finally, from 2008 to the present, Christianity became a persecuted culture.
They are what might be called "Cultural Christians" — born into a Christian family, raised going to church, but without any personal relationship with Jesus. Another characteristic of Cultural Christians is that they rarely if ever read the Bible. This has resulted in gross biblical ignorance and the undoing of doctrine. Ignorance of God's Word has even become true of Evangelical Christians, the very people whose identity in the past was linked to their reliance on the Bible for their ultimate authority in all things.” Jim Garlow.
***
As Will Rogers said, “This would be a great time in the world for some man to come along that knew something.”
****“
As we walk the path Christ has called us to, when the times come upon us to suffer, even the worst persecution, be found faithful and as did Stephen of old, as we are suffering the last earthly pain, see Jesus standing at the Father’s right hand. May we close our life forgiving those who think they are taking our life.” Mel Branham.
The clear thinking American will recognize that what many are ranting about as flaws are in reality safe guards of liberty. A system that demands effort on the part of individuals is not flawed, but is using common sense. For instance, Heaven has walls to keep those who refuse God’s ways out. Nations will do well to emulate this principle. As part Native American who reads history I realize the terrible mistake of my native ancestors having open immigration laws.
This July 4th may be the bleakest in the entire span of my life. I was born into what became shortly after my grand entrance, WWII, with rationing of everything to the poor and unconnected, air raid drills, black window shades and old men trying to cheer us up on squawking radios. Those early years were serious as all of civilization literally hung in the balance.
We are near that bad off today, only God is holding back some wacked out politician from pressing a Nuclear Button while in a maniacal frenzy.
Back in another dark era of our history, Will Rogers said, “This would be a great time in the world for some man to come along that knew something.” (The more astute P.C. Police can see the misogynistic micro aggression in Roger’s opine).
So what are we, as Christians to be about in times like these? Paul, who lived and labored as an Apostle during the 1st Century noted in his letter to the young pastor, Timothy:
“1 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” 2Timothy 2:1-4.
The backdrop of the 1st Century AD is as dark as any period in the sum total of world history. Yet, Paul encourages the inhabitants of that era by issuing a stern call to Warrior life!
Instruction #1vs1
This is a call to remembrance of who you are; A son of God, to therefore be strong because of God’s grace to you in Jesus Christ. Being strong in Jesus is a requirement in Christian Warriors. Weak, watered down, filled with doubt warriors are only of any value in a class room setting.
Instruction #2 vs2
What with “Gender Neutral” bathrooms etc. now is not the time for Rhinestone Warriors. Spiritual Warriors must be men and women of valor, and of commitment. In recent times the idea of making firm commitment to a cause or in this case to Christ is really off the table. As a pastor for most of my adult life I know the mind numbing problem of finding and enlisting people as Paul instructed to train for the daily work of Christ. There are a number of traits that must be present if any person is to be effective in serving Jesus. These traits are in addition to being truly save. For service as a Warrior for Christ you must be, Availability, Dependability, and Capability.
Each of the above involve a determination to make wise choices involving time, priority and ability. The most effective Christian Warrior and the laziest each have only 24 hours a day. A choice must be made in how those hours are invested. You are as available as you truly want to be. Dependability is a matter of personal character/choice. Capability is discovering the Gifts that God imparts to every believer and serving within the framework of God’s plan for you.
Instruction #3 vs3
This one is tough on moderns as we have become soft while lying on flowery beds of ease. Note the MUST. No wiggle room is given. Period, pain, heartbreaking betrayal, loss of prestige, and fortune, must be endured, patiently, while we serve under severe pressure emanating from the evil forces of darkness. Most of the early church Apostles and disciples endured “hardships” beyond our current comprehension of suffering. The torture under Nero etc. makes the reign of Hitler appear as a Sunday picnic is understatement.
Hardship takes many forms, the loneliness of John on Patmos, the freezing existence of Paul in the Mamertine Prison, fighting the beasts at Ephesus, and being forsaken by Demas. None of the Apostles were strangers to horrific poverty, yet they endured with victory in their heart and heaven on their mind! In our current world, a deacon’s frown can cause a “warrior” of the cross to start packing and searching for a place that will appreciate him. He or she believes that they were made for adulation rather than suffering hardship.
Instruction #4 vs4
Most Warriors today are totally wrapped in Satan’s delusions, derailed by public opinion as well a misplaced duty. We, as Daniel said, “Run hither and yon” very busy cooperating with the Anti-Christ plan of “wearing out the saints.” (Dan 7:25). In the day of pleasing the P.C. Police, the Chamber of Commerce and certainly keeping the local educators happy with us, we have laid aside the admonition in verse four: 2Timothy 2:4 “No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” We are much too entangled to be effective Warriors! We must become “engaged” in the battle of the ages, the battle for the minds and hearts of men and women for Christ.
****LML.
Jim Garlow is a Nazarene minister who pastors the Skyline Church in La Mesa, California. He is also considered a Church History Expert. Excerpted from a Speech at NRB:
From 1607-1833, Bible believing Christians were the establishment of this nation. That is for 236 years!
From 1833-1918, we were the predominant force. That is only 85 years. Notice how these periods decrease rapidly.
From 1918-1968, the sub-dominant force was Bible believing Christians for about 50 years.
Then the big turning point came in the 60's, from 1968-1988 we were a sub-culture for 20 years.
From 1988-1998, Christianity became a counter culture for 10 years.
From 1998-2008, Christianity became an antithetical culture for 10 years.
And, finally, from 2008 to the present, Christianity became a persecuted culture.
They are what might be called "Cultural Christians" — born into a Christian family, raised going to church, but without any personal relationship with Jesus. Another characteristic of Cultural Christians is that they rarely if ever read the Bible. This has resulted in gross biblical ignorance and the undoing of doctrine. Ignorance of God's Word has even become true of Evangelical Christians, the very people whose identity in the past was linked to their reliance on the Bible for their ultimate authority in all things.” Jim Garlow.
***
As Will Rogers said, “This would be a great time in the world for some man to come along that knew something.”
****“
As we walk the path Christ has called us to, when the times come upon us to suffer, even the worst persecution, be found faithful and as did Stephen of old, as we are suffering the last earthly pain, see Jesus standing at the Father’s right hand. May we close our life forgiving those who think they are taking our life.” Mel Branham.
Letters & Comments From Around the World!
Brother Lilly & Joyce,
Enjoy your Journal, many families receiving a blessing from it.
Everyone OK this week, finally have caught up with the grass mowing etc. Ha!
Order of next few days, Large tea and shade tree or inside air conditioning.
I had 75th birthday on the 8th, had a great day and family cards that mean so much. Now it’s your turn, September 13th. It’s ok it didn’t hurt! Ha! Just gained another wisdom wrinkle!
Love and prayers to all. H.W.
Editor’s Note: I included this dear lady’s note, which had an offering enclosed, to share with you the joy of having Prayer Warriors over a 41year period. H and her family have made an enormous difference in the thick and thin of my life and ministry since I first met them 41 years ago. The family is the epitome of a friend that is there at all times! LML.
Pastor Lilly,
Praise the Lord! At long last we have been led by the Lord to a church we can call home. We have been looking for a church like Berean ever since we moved from Indiana. We never realized how biblical correct Berean is until we tried to find one like in doctrine and scope. The church the Lord has led us to is small and very needy, therefore we must use what resources we have to aid the ministry here. I hope you understand. Thanks for all you have done for us and the opportunities to serve while we lived in Terre Haute.
We are praying the Lord will send more servant minded people to Berean and also many new prayer warriors who pray and give love offering to your great Journal ministry. God bless.
Editor’s Note: I praise the Lord for this letter, for the wonderful memories of the blessing this family was to the church I pastor, and also to this ministry. If you have moved to a new locality, be sure to pray and trust the Lord to lead you to a church that is true to Christ, one where you can make your life count for Jesus.
By all means, pray that the Lord Jesus will raise up others to fill the void left by this family.
God bless, LML.
This Note From Zambia,
Pastor Lilly, I pastor small church here. We have sides of building up, we still need roof. Need 12 sheets of metal for roof to keep rain out. Please pray for God to move and get roof for us. I would like your book, Outrageous Forgiveness. Use copy be good, as I have no money. Thank you in advance. Pastor Mark.
Editor’s Note: This note from Pastor Mark came to me via our Internet ministry, Larry Lilly Live. I was amazed some time ago when a friend, due to employment problems began a business on EBay. He discovered that my book, Outrageous Forgiveness in 30 Days is for sale literally around the world. I had no idea! I haven’t made ten cents from this, but the book is helping many! PTL! I sent Pastor Mark a new, signed copy. A signed copy is work 7cents more at yard sales! Please pray fervently for this ministry. LML
**“
Be what you is, not what you ain't,
'cause when you is what you ain't,
then you ain't what you is.” A Mountain Wings Original
***
If you like something in the Journal please write a note to me so that I can use your words to encourage others. I will deeply appreciate this effort on your part. God bless, Larry.
Enjoy your Journal, many families receiving a blessing from it.
Everyone OK this week, finally have caught up with the grass mowing etc. Ha!
Order of next few days, Large tea and shade tree or inside air conditioning.
I had 75th birthday on the 8th, had a great day and family cards that mean so much. Now it’s your turn, September 13th. It’s ok it didn’t hurt! Ha! Just gained another wisdom wrinkle!
Love and prayers to all. H.W.
Editor’s Note: I included this dear lady’s note, which had an offering enclosed, to share with you the joy of having Prayer Warriors over a 41year period. H and her family have made an enormous difference in the thick and thin of my life and ministry since I first met them 41 years ago. The family is the epitome of a friend that is there at all times! LML.
Pastor Lilly,
Praise the Lord! At long last we have been led by the Lord to a church we can call home. We have been looking for a church like Berean ever since we moved from Indiana. We never realized how biblical correct Berean is until we tried to find one like in doctrine and scope. The church the Lord has led us to is small and very needy, therefore we must use what resources we have to aid the ministry here. I hope you understand. Thanks for all you have done for us and the opportunities to serve while we lived in Terre Haute.
We are praying the Lord will send more servant minded people to Berean and also many new prayer warriors who pray and give love offering to your great Journal ministry. God bless.
Editor’s Note: I praise the Lord for this letter, for the wonderful memories of the blessing this family was to the church I pastor, and also to this ministry. If you have moved to a new locality, be sure to pray and trust the Lord to lead you to a church that is true to Christ, one where you can make your life count for Jesus.
By all means, pray that the Lord Jesus will raise up others to fill the void left by this family.
God bless, LML.
This Note From Zambia,
Pastor Lilly, I pastor small church here. We have sides of building up, we still need roof. Need 12 sheets of metal for roof to keep rain out. Please pray for God to move and get roof for us. I would like your book, Outrageous Forgiveness. Use copy be good, as I have no money. Thank you in advance. Pastor Mark.
Editor’s Note: This note from Pastor Mark came to me via our Internet ministry, Larry Lilly Live. I was amazed some time ago when a friend, due to employment problems began a business on EBay. He discovered that my book, Outrageous Forgiveness in 30 Days is for sale literally around the world. I had no idea! I haven’t made ten cents from this, but the book is helping many! PTL! I sent Pastor Mark a new, signed copy. A signed copy is work 7cents more at yard sales! Please pray fervently for this ministry. LML
**“
Be what you is, not what you ain't,
'cause when you is what you ain't,
then you ain't what you is.” A Mountain Wings Original
***
If you like something in the Journal please write a note to me so that I can use your words to encourage others. I will deeply appreciate this effort on your part. God bless, Larry.
The Book Worm's Corner. Comments From/About Helpful Books
Joyce Lilly (The Great Blonde)
Holiday Sermons a Collection of Special Sermon Ideas from Some of America’s Best Loved Preachers. Chad Brand & Clark Palmer Thomas Nelson 12 Chap 160 pgs. Amazon etc.
Stephen Olford, D. James Kennedy, Jack Hayford and W.A. Criswell are among the 12 preachers contributing holiday sermons to this page turner. Long term pastor’s often remark about having trouble finding fresh material. Here’s a great answer!
Christmas, Palm Sunday, Easter, Thanksgiving, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day as well as Independence Day are Covered by Masters of the written word.
Independence Day by Artis Fletcher lays out four key things that sets America apart. 1.We have been a friend to Israel. 2. We have been a friend to the poor. 3.We have been a friend to politics. 4. We have been a friend to religion. Artis backs these four things with ample scripture.
Stephen Olford is spell binding in his treatment of Back to Bethlehem, identifying it a city of prophesy, history and mystery. When you finish reading these two Christmas sermons, you will completely understand there is more to the Birth of Christ than mere stables and jingle bells!
D. James Kennedy’s magnificent piece on the day titled, Merry Tifton will capture your imagination in wonderfully strange ways. It is thought provoking beyond words.
Each of the Holidays are handled with care, compassion and the good knowledge of God’s Word you expect from the men of stature writing the articles.
In the entire book there is not one rant about the day, but the underlying biblical truth shines through as the reality of Christ breaks forth.
Larry hasn’t read the book yet, but when he does, every page will have a corner turned down, with marks all over the page. I have fussed at him over this practice for fifty years! Get the book! Joyce Lilly TgB
Stephen Olford, D. James Kennedy, Jack Hayford and W.A. Criswell are among the 12 preachers contributing holiday sermons to this page turner. Long term pastor’s often remark about having trouble finding fresh material. Here’s a great answer!
Christmas, Palm Sunday, Easter, Thanksgiving, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day as well as Independence Day are Covered by Masters of the written word.
Independence Day by Artis Fletcher lays out four key things that sets America apart. 1.We have been a friend to Israel. 2. We have been a friend to the poor. 3.We have been a friend to politics. 4. We have been a friend to religion. Artis backs these four things with ample scripture.
Stephen Olford is spell binding in his treatment of Back to Bethlehem, identifying it a city of prophesy, history and mystery. When you finish reading these two Christmas sermons, you will completely understand there is more to the Birth of Christ than mere stables and jingle bells!
D. James Kennedy’s magnificent piece on the day titled, Merry Tifton will capture your imagination in wonderfully strange ways. It is thought provoking beyond words.
Each of the Holidays are handled with care, compassion and the good knowledge of God’s Word you expect from the men of stature writing the articles.
In the entire book there is not one rant about the day, but the underlying biblical truth shines through as the reality of Christ breaks forth.
Larry hasn’t read the book yet, but when he does, every page will have a corner turned down, with marks all over the page. I have fussed at him over this practice for fifty years! Get the book! Joyce Lilly TgB
How To Experience A Powerful Sunday! Dale Byers
Dale Byers
There is much emphasis in our churches about power. Some times our worship becomes like the prophets of Baal. Attempts are made to somehow bring God down to bless us and if we can repeat it often enough and shout loud enough and sing with enough gusto, and display enough emotion, then God may hear and come down and bless us with a revival. The life, which the Apostle Paul desired and prayed for, was one that was supernatural. The Apostle prayed for the divine power that enabled him to experience a personal and intimate communion with the Living Christ every day. It is only by God’s power that we can live the Christian life on a daily basis. Affection for God is demonstrated through a life of obedience, communion and praise. The Christian life is a supernatural life. To live for God, we need the resources of the Triune God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, through the living Word of God (Heb. 4:12).
The Power of God The Father
Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
2 Cor. 6:7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
Eph. 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
The Power of God The Son
1 Cor. 5:4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Eph. 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Col. 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.
The Power of God The Holy Spirit
Luke 4:14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about.
Rom. 15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Eph. 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
If you desire a really great worship service on Sunday, then you must live the obedient, Spirit filled life Monday through Saturday. It does not matter how loud you preach, how long you sing or how zealous you may pray and cry. God does not bless disobedience.
If you want a really powerful service on Sunday, then start preparing on Monday. Dale Byers
The Power of God The Father
Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
2 Cor. 6:7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
Eph. 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
The Power of God The Son
1 Cor. 5:4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Eph. 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Col. 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.
The Power of God The Holy Spirit
Luke 4:14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about.
Rom. 15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Eph. 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
If you desire a really great worship service on Sunday, then you must live the obedient, Spirit filled life Monday through Saturday. It does not matter how loud you preach, how long you sing or how zealous you may pray and cry. God does not bless disobedience.
If you want a really powerful service on Sunday, then start preparing on Monday. Dale Byers
Pastor Lilly's Closing Thoughts
Friendly Reminder!
Your gift to Larry Lilly’s Journal helps to reach thousands of unbelievers via the Internet as well as many other media. The Journal encourages men and women living in tiny prison cells and some in mansions! God’s Word is faithfully taught by me and other faithful men and women. Please help this month with a gift.
It is through prayers and unselfish giving to the ministry that I am able to continue producing this Journal each month. Thank you very much for your kindness. Larry.
If the Lord leads you to help, please make check to Larry Lilly and mail to
Larry Lilly
P.O Box 5212
Terre Haute, IN 47805
Your gift to Larry Lilly’s Journal helps to reach thousands of unbelievers via the Internet as well as many other media. The Journal encourages men and women living in tiny prison cells and some in mansions! God’s Word is faithfully taught by me and other faithful men and women. Please help this month with a gift.
It is through prayers and unselfish giving to the ministry that I am able to continue producing this Journal each month. Thank you very much for your kindness. Larry.
If the Lord leads you to help, please make check to Larry Lilly and mail to
Larry Lilly
P.O Box 5212
Terre Haute, IN 47805