I read an article today that reflected on a lesson by Leroy Brownlow. The basic idea was that we should "preach what we practice" Most are familar with the cliche "practice what you preach"; however "preach what you practice" is a little different. The idea is that true children of God should openly preach what we practice, though it is different from the worldview. In Ephesians 4, the inspired writer speaks of ONE Lord, ONE Faith. In Matt. 16:18 Jesus declares that He would build His church (singular). The worldview is that many " different churches" are the branches with Christ being the sustaining "trunk". God's word disagrees with this world view. If you are saved, you will be in the Lord's church because He adds the saved to His church. Any "person/church" that preaches a different doctrine than the Lord's (one church) is anethema (Gal. 1:8). The same "preach what you practice" principle applies regarding other doctrinal issues, i.e. accapella singing, Eph. 5:19, Col. 3:16 (no instrument use authorized); one required condition of salvation being baptism (immersion) for remission of sins, Acts 2:38; that one is NOT saved by faith alone (James 2:24), but that obedience perfects faith (James 2:22) and so on. It is important that we preach what we practice; that we are not ashamed of the Gospel.

I am honored that my daughters asked me to get involved in the world of pleonast. They, and my wife, have read some very good posts to me. It is great that Christians can use this technology as another way to keep in touch and encourage each other.

Some of you know from a recent retreat that God expects us to be Holy (1 Peter 1:15ff). Being Holy includes all aspects of our life and everyone who reads this is capable of achieving it. Just as athletes train diligently to achieve high levels of performance, Christians also must exercise great care and effort to achieve Holiness. We must consider God's desire in every thing we undertake, from our jobs to the information we allow in our lives.

I look forward to discussions with each of you. Remember, ONE MATE FOR LIFE-ONE EXCEPTION! CHOOSE WISELY!!!!!!

SHAKE HANDS AND BE FRIENDLY, RIGHTLY DIVIDE GOD'S WORD (2 TIM. 2:15), PLAY GOLF, AND EAT HONEY (PROV. 24:13) AND BUTTER ON YOUR TORTILLAS AT OTB!
Charlie