Bro Ron's Blog

A Muzzled Pulpit?

2012-02-11T21:01:00.001-08:00

For years there has been a movement against having God mentioned in any
fashion when connected to the state. No prayer or Bible reading in school was
the beginning. Crosses being removed from public ground is common place.
Christmas is given very little space if a manger is involved. But this week
America changed.

Our nation took a dangerous step down a slippery slope. The US government
walked right into the pulpit of Army chaplains and told them what they could and
could not proclaim regarding abortion and the health care debate.

When the government begins to silence the pulpit you can know America is no
longer seeking neutral ground. The state wants to control the church and its
message.

An unfettered pulpit has always been a hallmark of religious liberty in this
country. I realize many will think this over the top. But in Germany the pulpit
was muzzled when Hitler came to power. We cannot stand for such behavior. Some
will be called on to speak when told to be silent.

May God give us boldness to speak, persistence to stand and courage to count
the cost. God help America.

Bro. Ron

Giving In The New Year!

2012-01-03T20:53:00.000-08:00

Imagine what your life would look like if you only committed 2.56% of
yourself to what you do. Marriage? Career? Recreation? Think about this during
this New Year.

The average church member only gives 2.56% of his/her
income to any church or charity. The church will never get all of its assignment
accomplished with that low financial investment from the membership.

As we begin this New Year, we need to evaluate our giving as well as
planning our 2012 giving. Here are 4 things to ponder:

1. Give at least the first tenth of your income to your local church.

2. Give over and above the first tenth of your income.

3. Leave a legacy of at least one-tenth of your estate to your local
church.

4. Leave a legacy of at least five percent of your estate to Great
Commission ministries, or enities of our state: Children's Home, ALCAP, etc.

You are never more like Jesus than when you are giving. Think about
it!

Bro. Ron

Personal Renewal Days

2011-07-07T07:35:00.000-07:00

As we are vacationing in Florida, I have been thinking about "Renewal." In just a few days, (July 24-27) we will be having our 16th Annual Revival Celebration at NPBC. I pray they will be "renewal days" for us as a person, couple, and church.

• First, I pray a fresh time of renewal in my love for Jesus. Reading and praying the Scripture has impacted my life for many years especially in these days. The teachings there are so refreshing every day.

• Second, I pray for a fresh time of renewal in my love for Renee. She is my partner and friend as well as my wife. We have been together almost 32 years. And I believe the best is yet to come.

• Third, I pray for a fresh time of renewal in my love for New Prospect. We have much to do. And I am dreaming new dreams and seeing new visions. For all of you who are part of that faith family, let’s get prepared to be used of the Lord.

Renewal time is coming! I pray that we will be prepared to receive it and not miss out on God's best for us.

Bro. Ron

Love is Spelled TIME~

2011-03-18T22:01:00.000-07:00

"By night on my bed I sought the one I love; I sought him, but I did not find him."

(Song of Solomon 3:1)

A couple decades ago, Christian publishers released waves of books on marriage, family, and childrearing from a biblical perspective. Many of them countered a popular cultural notion that championed quality of time over quantity of time in relationships. Not so, Christian authors said: "Quantity of time spent in relationships is just as important as quality of time, if not more so. Love, some suggested, could be spelled t-i-m-e."

It won't come as a surprise to modern married couples that the first spat in the marriage of King Solomon and his Shulamite bride was over the issue of time. Shulamith expected Solomon home at a certain hour and he showed up in the middle of the night. And Shulamith was too offended to get up and let him in. They patched things up in due course, but the tension they experienced is a warning to anyone in any relationship: "There is no substitute for time spent together."

Whether in marriage, childrearing, a relationship with God, or just good friends, growth and intimacy grow over time.
Consider your relationships today: Are you giving the people you love the time they deserve?

Bro. Ron

Merry Christmas from our House!

2010-12-20T13:06:00.000-08:00

Renee and I would like to wish all our church family and friends a very Merry Christmas! God came to us in the form of a baby born in Bethlehem over 2000 years ago. This birth changed the course of history and changes lives each and every day! May this Christmas be a wonderful time for each of us to recommit ourselves afresh to His love and grace.

Renee and I are looking forward to having our daughter and son-in-law with us a few days from Texas. Ashley and Justin are living in San Angelo while stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base. I thank God for his service and ll our service men and women serving our great country. May these families that are apart during these days be comforted with the presence of our Lord.

Bro. Ron

16 Years as Pastor

2010-12-08T21:35:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday November 2, 1994, New Prospect Baptist Church voted to call me as their pastor. I remember the night just like it was yesterday. Renee and I heard a knock at the door. After opening the door we found 4 people standing outside: W.E. & Helen Batchelor and Terry & Billie Ruth Fannin. They came to inform us that the church had just voted to call me as their new pastor.

The former pastor, Bro. Jack Woodall had retired. Bro. Jack was a dear friend that I loved as a father. He and Mrs Ann were a blessing to all that knew them. But with Bro. Jack's health failing, he wanted to go ahead and retire and move back to his home in Pell City. Of course, we accepted the call to be their pastor and I resigned my church, at Bethel #2 that Sunday. It was very difficult to do because I had never resigned a church before since it was my first. I shared with our deacons that I had been called to NPBC and I would be leaving in 30 days. When I shared it with our church at the close of the service, it was very difficult to do. I was very emotional and most everyone else was as well. The Lord gave me a group of people that loved me and supported me at Bethel. Many of those dear saints of God are gone now. They have crossed over on the other side. They have "entered into the joy of the Lord..."

The Lord has blessed our church at NPBC. I have been able to be in two churches since being called to preach. Each church have been nothing but supportive to me and for that I am thankful. I have been able to be their pastor and they have supported and prayed for me. These past 16 years have truly been great times for me and my family. We have some of the best people to work with! My prayer would be to finish strong and stay focussed and faithful to our Lord. May God help me to continue preaching His Word and sharing Christ here and around the world. Number 17 is just around the corner!

Bro. Ron

Happy Thankgiving!

2010-11-23T18:25:00.000-08:00

Centuries before Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving an American holiday by official proclamation in 1863, the apostle Paul was calling Christ-followers to a daily life of thankfulness.
In fact, Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians contains what we could call one of the most dramatic proclamations on giving thanks in the Scriptures: “to give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Now, I know it isn’t always easy to give thanks. In fact, it’s tempting at times to throw up our hands and say, “This is just too hard!” But take heart. Paul knew a thing or two about difficult times. He knew the pain of prison and persecution, and unspeakable hardship.
So when Paul, the greatest Christian who ever lived, tells us to “give thanks in ALL things” this is no ivory tower proclamation. No. It’s a bold statement of trust.

You see, when you give thanks in all things you acknowledge that God is in control of everything!
I can assure you that whatever you are facing, God is still in control. Assure your family and friends of this today when you give thanks for the blessings in your life!

Bro. Ron

Unstable Times A Coming

2010-10-23T20:16:00.000-07:00

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

The First Amendment is a cornerstone of America. Free speech and free exercise of religion is at the heart of country. Yesterday National Public Radio fired Juan Williams for stating his feelings of fear about seeing Muslims on airplanes. Being politically correct is a growing requirement in our country.

I have no doubt the pulpit will soon be in the target of the PC police. If one preaches what could be deemed as an offensive message, he will catch the wrath of those who disagree. That is okay. But when that wrath turns legal and seeks to silence the preacher, we are in big trouble.

America is on the verge of sinking. Pastors need to be courageous and biblical. When the heat comes, the church needs to stand and the preacher needs to preach what "thus saith the Lord."

Bro. Ron

Remembering a Fallen Hero

2010-10-01T13:14:00.000-07:00

Air Force Senior Airman Mark A. Forester, HHS Class of 1999, was killed in action in southern Afghanistan Wednesday. Forester, the son of Ray and Pat Forester of Haleyville, was an Air Force Combat Controller operating with an Army Special Forces unit. His remains are scheduled to arrive Thursday evening at Dover Air Force Base, where his family will be present. Arrangements have yet to be announced. Forester was assigned to the 720th Special Tactics Group, Hurlburt Field, Fla.

I did not know Mark personally, but he was the first soldier killed in action from our city since the war began. I would like to thank Mark for his service to our great country. He is a true American Hero that gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

To his parents and family, our prayers are with them in these difficult days. I know the citizens of our area and the city of Haleyville Alabama, will be a great support to the family and will lift them up in prayer.

May God bless the men and women that serve our country! It's only because of the grace of God and your service that we enjoy freedom in this nation.

Bro. Ron

To Burn or Not to Burn....

2010-09-11T17:40:00.000-07:00

A Gainesville, Florida pastor has received international attention with his announced plans to burn several copies of the Koran today on 9/11. The concern is that Muslims around the world will use this display as an opportunity to recruit radicals to strike out against Americans. The issue is the First Amendment protects the right to burn a Koran.

Let’s be clear: just because you have a right to a certain action does not mean the action is right.
The plan to burn the books was foolish. The pastor announced today that the church will not burn the books. He said his church wanted to expose the threat of radical Islam and that they accomplished there goal. No good could have come from this. There are better ways to stand against radical Islam.

Our Bible, has been attacked and burned for many years. But we know it can never be destroyed. Isa. 40 says, "The grass withers and the flower fades but the word of our Lord abides forever..."

Bro. Ron

Just Because We Have A Right; Is It Right?

2010-08-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

The plan to build a mosque two blocks from Ground Zero has been a hot topic in the press. Even President Obama has now weighed in with two different comments. Zeal and fervor abound.

America has always been a land of religious liberty. Baptists have championed the cause. But the location of the NYC mosque appears to be the issue. It is in the face of many who are tender about the towers site and those that who died there.

Let’s be clear. The law permits a place of worship to be built on the land two blocks from the September 11th attack. However, rights must always be coupled with responsibility. The only way for our kind of government to work is for people to be responsible and free. Having a right does not always make something right to do. This not only applies in the mosque issue but in various rules of law in America.

As we lose our heart we will have a more difficult time making democracy work. God give us common sense and decency. Some hills are worth dying on. However, Islamic leaders are not being wise to place the mosque in the shadow of the fallen towers and remains of loved ones.

Bro. Ron

Missions From Texas and Beyond

2010-07-08T15:48:00.000-07:00

As I write this blog today, Renee and I are in San Angelo Texas where we just moved our daughter Ashley. Ashley and Justin were Married on May 28 and now she is where she needs to be, with her husband. Justin is stationed here at Goodfellow AFB and is in Tech school. They will be moving from here to another base when he graduates.

As we have been here I have been reminded once again of how big our world is! Texas has the name of being BIG of everything! After all, it is our largest state in the USA. The population here is around 100,000 people. I was driving down one of the roads here the other day and was thinking about all those that live here that do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

There are several churches here and many of those churches are Baptist churches. My conviction is that the Lord needs all churches, not just Baptist churches to join in the Great Commission of reaching people with the gospel.

Pray for Ashley and Justin as they find their place of service here in San Angelo. As Justin serves in the Air Force and as Ashley works in the OTA field. I know the Lord wants to use them in this process of being a witness for Jesus right here!

Bro. Ron

National Day of Prayer Ruling

2010-04-21T15:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=32729

The article I share today is a good one regarding the recent ruling against The National Day of Prayer. I cannot believe this ruling will stand. However, it shows where we are as a nation. We resemble Israel in Nehemiah’s day. We have become disobedient and rebellious against God. We have cast His law behind our back. We dismiss the prophets who call us back to God and then we go out and commit great blasphemies (See Nehemiah 9:26).

I encourage you to add the Baptist Press to your favorite list. They do an excellent job informing us of current events which affect believers.

Bro. Ron

"When The Saints Come Maeching In!"

2010-02-15T16:57:00.000-08:00

The Saints did it. They are not the Aint’s anymore! What a great story and uplift for the city of New Orleans. The party is on. Of course, when you visit New Orleans, the party is always on, but it is now in high gear. Congrats to the Super Bowl Champions!

Few realize that New Orleans was the original location of the Southern Baptist home mission work. Why New Orleans? Because the party is always on. It is a wonderful city in many respects. However, the debauchery and drunkenness is reason enough for mission to be a priority in the city. New Orleans needed the Saints. And New Orleans needs biblical saints to come marching in with the Gospel.

Pause and pray today for New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and local churches to be a light in the New Orleans region.

Bro. Ron

2010-01-16T09:09:00.000-08:00

As an avid life-long Alabama fan, I was thrilled with the outcome of the Crimson Tide's National Championship game. The testimony that UT quarterback Colt McCoy gave in a post-game interview was also thrilling to my heart. This young man entered the game with hopes of winning the game and ending his college career on a high note. His shoulder injury five plays into the game ended that dream. What was his response when he was asked how that felt? After composing himself, Colt gave glory to God and expressed that he knew this was in His plan. He boldly proclaimed that he stands on The Rock. God used a disappointing circumstance to allow a national testimony to be given for Him. Thank God for athletes who use their platforms to share their faith. May we all be so bold.

Looking forward to a great day in worship tomorrow. We are observing Sanctity of Human Life Sunday and will have Bro. Steve Sellers from the Alabama Baptist Children's Home as our guest speaker. We will receive a special love offering for the Children's Home. Our church is collecting food for the Children's Home as well until March 2. Let's all make a difference in these young people's live while supporting our Alabama Baptist Children's Home.

Bro. Ron

Merry Christmas from our House

2009-12-27T21:22:00.000-08:00

Jesus He came not to a throne,but to a manger.

He lived not as a king,but as a servant.

He chose not a kingdom,but a cross.

He gave not just a little,but everything.

May you have a blessed Christmas Day

Pastor Ron Horton

*Words by Holley Gerth

Our Steps are Ordered by the Lord

2009-09-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine was telling me the other day that runners now can have tracking devices implanted in their shoes. And with these little chips, race officials can track them wherever they are in the race.

That same chip will send a computerized message to a select group of friends so they can keep up with the runner’s progress. It’s amazing. A tiny chip tracking every step!

Now, if man can figure out something like that, don’t you think God knows where you and I are at all times, what we’re doing, and where we are going? Of course, he does, and he doesn’t need a chip! That’s because “The steps of a man are established by the lord, when he delights in his way.”

But you see, God is not just tracking your steps. He is orchestrating them as well. So when you veer off course, he gently helps you make adjustments, giving you opportunities to get back on track. God directs your steps… as well as your stops!

If your heart takes joy in pleasing God, seek his will daily. Then you can rest assured that your steps are ordered by the Lord.

You are right in his center of vision. God is literally keeping track of you because of his love for you. This is his promise!

Bro. Ron

Is It A Crime To Pray At School?

2009-08-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

America is the greatest nation on the planet. However, some things are changing. I am 50 years old and the nation is vastly different now than when I was a child. Illegal immigrants, secularization of public schools, and Muslims living here in numbers which make them a religious percentage of the population are just a few of the things that have changed. This list could be very long. I often hear people say, “This nation is in trouble.” And I must agree. We are in need of a revival of God’s people and a fresh boldness to stand.

I recently read an article about Pace High School principal Frank Lay. His case is now being handed over to the criminal court. Of what crime is he accused? He asked Athletic Director Robert Freeman to pray before a meal where a small group of boosters came together on campus to celebrate the completion of the new field house. Someone in attendance was offended and reported the “prayer crime.” The recent ACLU suit left the school district with a court order that prohibits any religious expression. So the principal and athletic director were in violation. Here we are in America. A 30+ year worker in the public school system is going to court in September for asking a blessing before a meal on school grounds. I am telling you this is not America. This is not what the forefathers risked all for. This is not what young men and women bled for defending this country. To quote the Commander in Chief on another issue: this is acting stupidly. But, this is the America we live in today. Socialism is next. Then comes communism. If we do not stand with Mr. Lay, they will come and take us away next.

Pray for these men as they stand for what is right and may their tribe increase!

Bro. Ron

2009-06-24T15:33:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful mission trip in Romania this year with 16 team members traveling to Bucharest and Cluj. Our Lord gave us a great harvest of 144 souls saved and encouraged the churches and saints of God. We are greatful for Bro. Mike Goforth for leading us for several years and making a difference there. The people of Romania are such a blessing to our team and we have made lasting friends. We are thankful to the churches we serve, families and individuals for their prayers and support. We are already making plans for 2010.

Here We Go Again!

2009-05-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

I am looking forward to traveling back to Romania in a few weeks with our team from 4 states. The Lord has truly blessed our efforts the past several years as I have been part of the mission teams. I thank God for our church at New Prospect Baptist, that has allowed me to minister around the world. They have helped financially, prayed and supported wherever they could to be involved. What a blessing it is to be able to share the gospel and see people come to faith in Christ.

As our team prepares spiritually and mentally for the trip, may the Lord give us a safe and fruitful trip back to our brothers and sisters in Romania. May He lead us to be on mission each day of our lives as we prepare for His soon coming!

Bro. Ron

Does The Church Need To Repent?

2009-03-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

The Christian Science Monitor carried an interesting story last week. Michael Spencer wrote the article that was headlined, “The Coming Evangelical Collapse”. He says an anti-Christian chapter in Western history is about to begin. He writes of a coming apostasy and predicts millions of evangelicals will quit.
He bases the column on the recent study, the American Religious Identification Survey. Conducted by researchers at Trinity College of Hartford, Connecticut, he cites the findings that those calling themselves Christian is down 10% since 1990. The number is now 76%.

We cannot deny that the American church is in trouble. And the troubles are ours. The need of the hour is repentance within the body of Christ. We need to return to our first love and be open to the fresh leading of the Holy Spirit and to His manifestation of Bible faith in our culture.

Tuesday March 17 was St Patrick’s Day. Many know of the day as wearing green, having a parade, drinking beer and eating corn beef. However, if you go back and read of Patrick you will find him a Gospel preacher calling people to repentance in Ireland. He died March 17, 461 A.D. We would be wise to look at history and ask God to raise up others to call us to repentance.

Bro. Ron

Where Are The Encouragers?

2009-03-15T14:21:00.000-07:00

Well, the time change is officially here. We all set our clocks forward the other day and now we are in full "Spring Forward" motion. I usually get up, shower, shave, get dressed, have devotional time and study time, have my coffee and read the Birmingham News paper.

For the first fews days, I felt rather sluggish. I told Renee that I felt like I was "Jet-lagged" even. But now, I feel almost back to normal and things are about the same.

Mornings are important. Bible reading, prayer, coffee or tea and the morning paper seem to have a regular place for many people. Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; in the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch.” As you settle in to the new time structure I encourage you to remember your time with Jesus each day. Then walk with Him every step of the daily journey.

In the coming weeks, let me encourage you to send cards, emails and share words of encouragement to others. The scripture says to encourage one another. Never underestimate what a note means. Take time and mail or email one today. Forget about sending the forwards that you think will be a blessing. Instead take time to write a personal note of encouragement and exhortation. It will work!

Bro. Ron

Parenting Our Children

2009-01-27T17:40:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed our "Baby Dedication" this past Sunday with Chris and Emily Mims. I shared this Scripture with you, “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart.” (Deuteronomy 6:6)

What are your children exposed to in their daily lives? Children mimic what they see. They become what they are taught face-to-face, heart-to-heart, and life-to-life.
According to Scripture, we should teach our children values, faith, and biblical truths personally. Unfortunately, many parents leave the teaching to television, music, peers, schools, or even church.

While Sunday school, and church activities are all great tools to help instill faith, none are meant to be a substitute for anyone.
So I want to encourage you today to live every day loving God, fearing God, and obeying God. There’s no “time out” for parenting. Every day, every hour, and every moment is important. Why? Because you can’t plan the best teaching moments.

Have you ever noticed that the best family moments are when you’re hanging out, talking, and just being together? You can’t put your children on hold while you fulfill your own life. You must be engaged. May the Lord help us to be the best parents possible.

Someone said, "Being a parent is an awesome responsibility. It's one of those jobs that when you learn how to do it, you lose it..." Lord, help us to do it well!

Bro. Ron

Stand Up For Jesus

2009-01-15T12:06:00.000-08:00

The order has come down in the case of two minors in Florida who were offended by prayers and other religious practices in Santa Rosa County schools. The ACLU paper "The Torch" tells of their Religious Freedom Project Director Glenn Katon bringing this suit. The school system has agreed to being silenced. No prayers are allowed to be planned for graduation and it seems religious baccalaureate services are to just form out of thin air if they happen at all. Or maybe the wording allows for a secular baccalaureate service.
If you are a teacher or student in a public school I want to encourage you to be courageous. This is no time to say we cannot talk about Jesus at school. Be creative in your proclamation of Christ.
As I Peter 3 :14-15 reminds us, "But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.”

There remains a strong voice in America led by the ACLU that wants no hint of religion outside of church property. They will say that is not so but their actions indicate a different thought. The wall of separation between church and state is leading us to a secularization of America. A nation that is not “under God” will be a nation that is soon gone under.

Bro. Ron

Purpose Driven Prayer

2009-01-04T21:17:00.000-08:00

Rick Warren has been asked to offer the invocation at Barak Obama’s inauguration on January 20, 2009. The Southern Baptist pastor has drawn fire for his stance against Proposition 8 in California. The people voted for it and defined marriage as being between a man and a woman. Now gay rights activists have said they are feeling betrayed that Warren was invited to pray.
However, very little ink has been given to the man asked to deliver the benediction. The Rev. Joseph Lowery is a retired United Methodist pastor. He is called the Dean of the Civil Rights movement. Ebony magazine calls him one of the 15 greatest black preachers. If you have ever heard him you will agree he is a powerful speaker. After marching with Dr. Martin Luther King he was a founder and later president and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference from 1977 until 1998. He led the Cascade Methodist Church to great things during his days of pastoral leadership in Atlanta.
Dr. Lowery believes marriage is a civil right and should not be denied to gays or lesbians. He has also called for the ordination of gay clergy in the Methodist church. Along with over 51% of voters in California and over 60% in Florida, I disagree with his stance. Both states voted for marriage to remain as defined being between a man and a woman. This is a moral issue. It is a Bible issue. While you can count on Dr. Lowery praying a soul moving prayer to close the inauguration, he is wrong on this marriage issue. Rick Warren has it correct. If a man can marry a man then the logical next step is toward polygamy and then allowing a man to marry a child. On and on the slippery slope falls. Without a doubt it is time for America to pray.

Remember to pray for Rick Warren as he gives the opening prayer on January 20. Pray he will be a bright light for Jesus and will be used of God for the Christian faith.

Bro. Ron

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T14:34:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all! What a great year our Lord gave to each of us in 2008.
While many are hurting economically I cannot remember a time when I have seen the New Prospect family do more for others than this Christmas season. So many have been blessed and helped. Thank you for being a giving people.

Renee Ashley and I want to wish each of you a Merry Christmas. Thanks for reading my blogs this year. Please continue to pray for me as I seek to lead our Church family into the New Year.

Bro. Ron

A Living Testimony on The Field and Off...

2008-12-09T17:16:00.000-08:00

The college football regular season is over. As an Alabama fan, I have enjoyed this year. I am also a Tim Tebow fan. He had a great game in the SEC title game against the Tide. He was the difference in the fourth quarter. Now the Gators turn their attention to Oklahoma.
In the South we certainly know about Tim Tebow’s faith walk and some go as far as to say that it makes the difference for the Gators. I think being 6’3” and 230 lbs helps a lot! When Florida lines up against Oklahoma they will be looking at a record setting offense led by quarterback Sam Bradford. In the December 2008 Sharing the Victory FCA magazine, guess who was on the cover? It is Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford. There is a tear-out poster in the magazine that has Sam pictured and 1 Corinthians 16:13 printed on it. This young Christian athlete is certainly a leader in FCA at OU.
So the BCS game has a Christian quarterback on both sides of the line. Who will win? They both will be prayed up. It is going to be fun to watch.
I am thrilled to see athletes stand for Jesus on and off the field of competition. So many others are looking up to these young leaders. Kids everywhere wear jerseys with #14 or #15 on them. It would be a good thing for us to pray for these young men to have testimonies that exalt the Lord – win or lose.

Bro. Ron

Have A Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-25T17:50:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about Thanksgiving the other day and I read something that stopped me. It was this: “The pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts … nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving.” Boy, doesn’t that say a lot! Think about it. Our forefathers, the courageous men and women who came to this country on the Mayflower, had a pretty tough go of things. And in spite of a huge loss of life and incredible hardship they kept their faith and thanked God, when all they had was a place to live and the hope that they would grow or kill enough food to eat. Others had been wiped out before them and they might be next, but they gave thanks anyway.

Just think about that for a moment and then think about your life. We’ve all had pain in our lives, and you may have experienced hurt and suffering that is beyond what we think anyone should have to go through; yet we are called to pause and give thanks to God for His incredible blessings no matter what our circumstances. The apostle, Paul, wrote: “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

(I Thessalonians 5:16)

Bro. Ron

Sowing The Seed in a Fertile World

2008-11-16T18:50:00.000-08:00

I am reminded today of the parable of the sower. Jesus said some seed falls on good ground and brings forth fruit. Others are choked out by weeds. Our Lord described the thorns and weeds as the worry of this world and the deceitfulness of riches. If we are not careful these things can choke the fruitfulness of Word of God out of our lives.

We are living in days of worry and deceitfulness over money. Retirement accounts are on everyone’s mind. The stock market goes up and down like a yoyo. Big money bailouts and fraud dominate the news. Be careful not to get caught up in this world’s way of thinking. Sow the seed of faithfulness. It will grow and it will last.

Bro. Ron

A Challenge To Pray

2008-11-08T20:14:00.000-08:00

America changed Tuesday evening at 10 p.m. when President-Elect Barack Obama received the concession remarks from Senator John McCain. In just over 70 days the new President will be sworn in. There is an excellent article by Dr. Al Mohler posted the day after the election. I hope you will take time to read it.
Make no mistake. America has taken a strong step to the left. Liberals poured millions of dollars into the Obama campaign and placed thousands of workers on the ground. Larger government is on the way. And when Supreme Court justices are put forth they will not be conservative. Family issues like marriage and abortion will need strong voices on a grass roots level. The Freedom of Choice Act will be pushed forward. And the new President has stated he will work to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act.

This Sunday we will have a prayer time for the President-elect and his family. He will be my President. I pledge to pray for him. These days will demand a strong and wise leader.

Bro. Ron

A Teachable Moment?

2008-10-14T19:09:00.000-07:00

The first grade class at Creative Arts Charter School in San Francisco recently took a field trip. Many classes do this. However, this one was a little different. Their teacher, Erin Carder, was getting married to her partner, Kerri McCoy. The city mayor, Gavin Newsom, was officiating. School officials approved the trip to the lesbian wedding by calling it a teachable moment. This is what happens in a state where gay marriage is sanctioned by Supreme Court judges. It has happened in California and also just recently Connecticut.

Teachable moments are important for first graders. The pro gay agenda is to teach children early that gay marriage is acceptable.

Florida and California will be voting on November 4, to define marriage as being only between a man and a woman. This is a needed wall of protection from Supreme Court judges who may try to legislate from the bench.

Pray for these two states as they vote the Bible convictions on November 4.

Bro. Ron

The Blessings of Missions in Romania

2008-09-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

It's good to be back home after a couple of weeks sharing the gospel in Romania. Our team of 28 from 3 states, were a blessing to be part of. We shared Christ in several churches and villages, a prison, did VBS in a couple of churches and saw 270 people accept Christ as Savior. I want to thank New Prospect Baptist Church for their prayers and financial support. Each year they have gone the 2nd mile in allowing me to minister in Romania. I appreciate the staff and deacons for ministering to our people while I was away. I am already looking forward to 2009!

Bro. Ron

Romania Here We Come!

2008-09-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

We have our team ready and prepared to travel to Romania to share the gospel and minister in the churches. Bro. Mike Goforth, our fearless leader has put together a fantastic team of 28 people from across Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. I want to thank our church family at New Prospect for their support and prayers. Each year they have gone the "2nd" mile in supporting me financially as well as through prayers. I think it is very commendable for churches to support their pastors as well as laymen in mission efforts. Sure, all God's people can pray but sometimes He moves us to do more than pray, he moves many of us to participate. Thank God for all our missionaries and churches that not only support missions at home but abroad.

Bro. Ron

Humor In School

2008-08-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

School is in full swing. Teachers and students are up early getting the rooms ready, catching the bus and preparing lessons. Be much in prayer for the people involved in this school year.
A few days ago I ran across the account of the plight of a teacher. Enjoy…

After being interviewed by the school administration, the teaching prospect said,
“Let me see if I’ve got this right: You want me to go into that room with all those kids, correct their disruptive behavior, observe them for signs of abuse, monitor their dress habits, censor their T-shirt messages, and instill in them a love for learning. You want me to check their backpacks for weapons, wage war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, and raise their sense of self esteem and personal pride.
You want me to teach them patriotism and good citizenship, sportsmanship and fair play, and how to register to vote, balance a checkbook, and apply for a job. You want me to check their heads for lice, recognize signs of antisocial be behavior, and make sure that they all pass the state exams.
You want me to provide them with an equal education regardless of their handicaps, and communicate regularly with their parents by letter, telephone, newsletter, and report card.
You want me to do all this with a piece of chalk, a blackboard, a bulletin board, a few books, a big smile, and a starting salary that qualifies me for food stamps.
You want me to do all this, and then you tell me……….I CAN’T PRAY?”

Bro. Ron

A Tribute To Johnny Stallings

2008-08-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

If you want to be touched / inspired by how God uses disability, read the following article about Johnny Stallings and his father, Coach Gene Stallings. Johnny passed away last Saturday.

All I ever really needed to know, I learned from Johnny Stallings. You can go to the finest schools and get any advanced degree they offer. Or you can read all of the business and self

improvement books you want. But for a Ph.D in true wisdom, take a look at the life of Johnny Stallings. You may have never heard of Johnny. He had Down Syndrome. When he was born, 46 years ago in Alabama, the doctors said he wouldn’t live even a year or two because of a severe heart defect. Other well-meaning doctors advised his parents to put him in an institution. “In a year,” they said, “you’ll forget you ever had him.”But fortunately for all of us, Gene and Ruth Ann Stallings didn’t take their advice. They chose to treat Johnny as a vital part of their family. And we are all the better for it. As his father advanced his football coaching career — first at Alabama, then to Texas A&M, the Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals and finally to a National Championship in 1992 at Alabama — Johnny was an integral part of the team. To Johnny, the most important person was the trainer. Trainers take care of the players,” he once said. “You can’t win without trainers.” To the day he died, Johnny Stallings wore a massive, diamond-encrusted National Championship ring on his frail fingers, which were tinged a grayish blue from the lack of oxygen caused by his heart condition. Johnny was front and center in that National Championship team photo. In fact, he was a part of every team his father coached, including the storied Dallas Cowboys. The players drew inspiration from him. When Johnny turned 40 years old, for example, his birthday party was attended by a Who’s Who of former NFL stars.

Johnny had some accomplishments of his own. He was featured with his father on a popular national United Way TV commercial, has a playground named for him at the RISE center in Tuscaloosa, had the athletic training facility at Alabama named for him, and won a “Change the World” award from Abilene Christian University. But perhaps the most important thing that Johnny Stallings accomplished is this: he taught us that it doesn’t matter what awards you win, or what worldly accomplishments you achieve, it is how you live your life that matters most. So what can we learn from Johnny Stallings?

• Every life matters. The life of Johnny Stallings teaches us that God can use anyone, no matter how insignificant in society’s eyes, to make an impact on others. Johnny had none of the things that you and I take for granted, but Johnny touched countless lives in ways none of us can even begin to imagine. Our materialistic, success-driven culture doesn’t really know what to do with people like Johnny. Society certainly didn’t know what to do with Johnny when he was born 46 years ago. But God did.

• See the good in everyone. “Be my friend.” When Johnny got to know you, you became his “friend.” And he never forgot you. Despite being mentally disabled, Johnny never forgot a name or a face. Johnny literally saw no evil in people. Johnny had more friends in his short lifetime than any of us will ever enjoy.

• Walk openly, simply and humbly with God. The Bible tells us, “And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” That describes the way Johnny lived. He could barely read or write, but Johnny Stallings prayed the sweetest prayers you ever heard. He didn’t necessarily know the fine points of theology, but you could tell that he knew God. He walked with God, openly, simply and humbly. And everybody knew it, whether they acknowledged that God or not.

• Love unconditionally. In Johnny’s world, you didn’t keep score or attach strings to love. He loved unconditionally, all of the time.

• Smile. Laugh. Hug. The last time I saw Johnny, we brought him a T-shirt from Dreamland Barbecue in Tuscaloosa, one of his favorite places to eat. Johnny hugged us. He patted us. He smiled all of the time. Johnny was one of these people who always made everyone feel better just for having been around him. Who among us can say that about ourselves?

• Treasure every moment. Johnny, of course, was supposed to be put away in an institution. Doctors told them Johnny wouldn’t make it to age 4, and when he did, they then said he wouldn’t live past 11 because of heart and lung issues common to people with Down Syndrome. Then we always heard that Johnny wouldn’t live past 16. And on and on. So with Johnny, you treasured every moment.

• Little victories are the ones that matter the most. Everyone focuses on the championships, but with Johnny, you celebrated all of the little victories. Then, after a while, you realized that those are the ones that really matter the most.

•Trust God because He really does know best. Despite being frail and disabled, Johnny Stallings wore a National Championship ring. Every member of that 1992 Alabama team will tell you of Johnny’s impact on that team. Johnny Stallings literally changed the world and made everybody he met a better person — if only for that moment. Gene Stallings, a star football player, championship coach and tough enough to be one of Bear Bryant’s legendary Junction Boys, probably used to dream of a son who would be an impact player, who would change the world, make a difference and someday maybe — just maybe — wear a National Championship ring.

“ I prayed to God that He would change Johnny, but He changed me,”Coach Stallings once said in a speech. He added that if God offered him the choice of going back and having a “perfect” son without a disability or having Johnny, “I’d take Johnny every time.”

*Gregg Thompson is a 1972 graduate of Paris High School, former sports writer for The Paris News and currently director of corporate communications for Chick-Fil-A in Atlanta, Ga.

A great life story of Johnny Stallings,

Ron

Revival Blessings!

2008-08-04T20:42:00.000-07:00

The Lord gave us a wonderful Revival this past week. We had great attendance and the Lord blessed in each service. I think our people enjoyed each service as was evident with our attendance each night. Our speakers brought God's Word and our music was inspiring. We had 6 precious souls saved and the altar was full each service. I had the priviledge of baptizing 5 of these on Sunday morning and evening. Pray for them as they begin their new walk with the Lord and start the process of discipleship. I want to thank our members for their prayers and faithfulness in this year's 13th revival celebration. I am already working on 2009! Continue to be faithful by inviting unchurched friends, co-workers and family to our services.

Revival Services Begins Sunday!

2008-07-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

I am looking forward to our 13th Annual Revival Celebration beginning this Sunday, July 27-30. We have some of God's choice servants coming to share with us. Let me encourage all our members to invite your friends, co-workers to the services. God will bless and you can have part in these blessings. Bro. Tom Whitsett, of Hixson TN will start us off on Sunday morning at 11:00 AM and also in our evening services at 6:00 PM. Evangelist Jackie Kay of Millington TN, will be with us on Monday night, 7:00 PM. Jeff Steele and the Faith Baptist Choir of Vinemont AL will be with us on Tuesday night, 7:00 PM. Closing out our meeting will be evangelist Junior Hill of Hartselle AL. Shannon Knight, Guin AL will be leading our music. Let me encourage you to continue praying for real revival this coming week!

Ron

Tony Snow and Joy in Sickness

2008-07-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

Tony Snow, Fox newscaster and former White House Press Secretary, died of colon cancer a few days ago. He was 53. He was a popular man in an arena where few men were.
Cal Thomas said of Snow, "Tony was transformed into a serious Christian, not only by reading the Bible and devotional books, but also applying the example of Jesus in his relationship with others."There was something about his manner, his demeanor that drew people to him.

President Bush called him "a man of character."
A committed Christian, his perspective on sickness and death is clearly biblical. At a Washington dinner last year he talked about his struggle with cancer. He said, "You have to learn something that is very hard in the modern era, and that is you have to give yourself to God, to surrender."
As to death he said, "When you die, you graduate. I don't worry about death. Sickness teaches there is joy in everything. Take joy in your sickness because a lot of times God is telling you: You may not know it, but you're more blessed than you realized." (Cal Thomas, Townhall.com, July 15)

His perspective sounds pretty biblical to me. James says, "Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations."(1:2)

Ron

Revival Begins With Me!

2008-07-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

Revival is a verb. Revival is not a noun. It is not a series of meetings, however long or short. Revival is a renewal of zeal in the people of God to love Him fully, to live for Him completely and to lead others to meet Him.
Some of the results of renewed zeal are deeper commitments to the spiritual disciplines of prayer, Bible study, worship, missions and evangelism. When revival occurs, unbelievers are saved and a spirit of anticipation of the movement of God is prevalent in worship. You expect God to move. You long for God to move. You open yourself to be moved.

It is sad when the norm is nothing. To twist horribly William Carey's words, some people believe that we should "Expect nothing from God. Attempt nothing for God." What is worse is when no one is broken over the fact that no one is being saved or transformed. Why is no one weeping over Jerusalem?

The story is told that a student pastor came to British pastor Charles Spurgeon one day and was burdened that no one was being saved when the student pastor preached.
Spurgeon replied, "You don't really expect someone to be saved every time you preach, do you?" The pastor replied, "No, not every time." Spurgeon then said, "That is exactly the problem."

We can lament statistics, we can produce reasoned causes for spiritual decline but we cannot deny there is a great need for revival.
I was in a meeting recently when the discussion of low baptisms and a lack of lasting spiritual renewal became the subject. Several ideas of why were voiced. Some stated a prevalence of apathy in the church body toward spiritual matters. Others said the problem was a result of cultural shifts in America.
It's one thing to identify a problem, it's another thing to find a solution. There are two obvious solutions: One is a corporate and the other is individual.

The corporate solution is that bodies of believers must recognize and repent of the sin of failure to be salt and light in the community where God has planted them. This statement is not directed at the church that is attempting to be salt and light and the community is not responding. After all, William Carey spent seven years in India before one person became convinced of the claims of Christ. It is a statement against complacency.
The Bible says, "If My people who are called by My name humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14). Christians quote the verse often, but seldom heed it.

The individual solution is in that Old Testament verse. A collective response is made up of individuals who respond. One New Testament complement of this Old Testament message is found in Romans 12:1-2, "Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." Paul deals with the individual so that in subsequent verses he can deal with the collective body of believers. When you surrender your life to the Lord, collectively the church can function as a healthy body of believers, using individual gifts to influence the world for Christ.
I truly believe the answer to the problem is not in "them." The answer to the problem is in "me." I can only control what I do. I can't control my wife, my daughter, my neighbor or anyone else. But, I have complete control of me.

If I humble myself, pray and seek God's face, and turn from my evil ways, then God will hear from heaven, forgive my sins and heal my land. If I present my body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is my spiritual worship. If I will not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of my mind, then I may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. Nothing will happen in my church collectively, if it doesn't begin in me individually.

Revival is a verb. It is a verb that needs a subject; me.

*Above Picture includes: Ron Horton, Sammy Gilbreath, Price Harris. Men who long to see real Revival in our churches...

Ron

Thirty Day's To Live?

2008-07-02T21:10:00.000-07:00

Today is July 2. 2008 is half gone. We are now in the second half of the year. What is it you need to do before 2009 arrives? It is time to get started.

Pastor Kerry Shook and his wife Chris wrote a book entitled, "Thirty Day's To Live." What a challenge! A very strong word to the reader as one takes inventory of their life for thirty days. The opening question in chapter one asks, “If you had thirty days to live what five things would you change about your life?” I have made my list. Now I have work to do.

Bro. Ron

Vacation Bible School Blessings

2008-06-23T20:23:00.000-07:00

We finished up our Vacation Bible school this past Friday night. What a week it was! We praise the Lord for His blessings upon us each night. We ended up with these numbers for the week: We enrolled 193 and had an average attendance of 188 each night. We had 13 professions of faith and 2 public rededications. Praise the Lord! I had the opportunity to baptize 2 of those this past Sunday morning. I want to thank all of our workers for a wonderful week and giving of themselves. I mentioned in the family night service on Friday night, that Bear Bryant once said about not having a hesiman trophy winner at the University of Alabama, "We are more interested in championships!" Team effort! That's what it takes to serve our Lord. We are all in this thing together. There are no super stars in serving Jesus. I thank all of our workers for a job well done! "To Him be glory in the church!"

Ron

Outrigger Island Here We Come!

2008-06-12T13:49:00.000-07:00

This coming Saturday morning we will begin our kick-off for our VBS this year. We begin at 10:00 AM and will conclude at 12:00 noon. Let me encourage you to invite and bring guests to the kick-off and and VBS this coming week. Our VBS begins this Sunday (June 15-20) from 6:00 - 8:30 PM nightly. We have so many workers that have spent many hours in preparation for this years Bible School. I want to thank each and every one for their time well spent in preparation. I know the Lord will bless our labor and prayers for this years VBS. Thank you for investing in kingdom work!

Ron

A Wife's Final Tribute

2008-06-06T18:40:00.000-07:00

The night before the burial of her husband’s body, Katherine Cathey refused to leave the casket, asking to sleep next to his body for the last time. The Marines made a bed for her, tucking in the sheets below the flag. Before she fell asleep, she opened her laptop computer and played songs that reminded her of “Cat,” and one of the Marines asked if she wanted them to continue standing watch as she slept. “I think it would be kind of nice if you kept doing it,” she said. “I think that’s what he would have wanted.”

As many families deal with the loss of loved ones, let us never forget the sacrifice that has been made for our freedom.

Ron

Preach The Word

2008-05-31T18:03:00.000-07:00

"Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." (2 Timothy 4:2)

I heard of one graduate of a theological school who determined to follow his professor's advice and preach the Word only. His crowds were average. Then one day a cyclone hit the little town and he yielded to the temptation to preach on the topic "Why God Sent the Cyclone to Centerville." The church was packed. This shook the young preacher and he went back to ask his professor for further advice in the light of what had happened. Should he continue to preach the Word to smaller crowds or try to fill his church by preaching sermons a bit more sensational? The old man did not change his mind. "If you preach the Word," he told the inquirer, "you will always have a text. But if you wait for cyclones you will not have enough to go around."

Lord, help us to remain faithful in preaching your Word!

Ron

Golf Tournament A Great Success

2008-05-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

We had our first of two missions golf tournaments this past Saturday at Deer Run course in Moulton. We had a great number of teams playing and we raised several thousand dollars for our mission trip to Romania this fall. We have around 32 people making the trip this year and I am excited about what the Lord will do in our lives as well as the Romanian people.

I want to thank all of our people at New Prospect for their support and prayers in preparation of the golf tournament. Many of them have supported this mission effort for the past seven years through giving, serving and praying. Paul tells us in his second epistle to the Corinthians, "We are laborers together with God." That is exactly what He has called each of us to do; to labor together with each other. Some plants, some waters, but God gives the increase!

Ron

Graduation And Mother's day

2008-05-13T20:33:00.000-07:00

Friday was a big day for our family. Ashley graduated from Wallace State College. We sat a long way from the stage. As over 500 graduates walked in everyone was looking for theirs. I looked for her as the graduates entered the building. Finally, I did see her in the long line. Funny how we know our own. Jesus says He knows His sheep and they hear His voice. In that same manner I recognized our daughter Ashley. Renee and I are proud of her. Now it is on to the next phase for her. I ask you to pray for Ashley as she makes this transition. Paying for your own gas is a shock to grads that have been using Dad’s card!

Sunday was also Mother’s Day. It was delightful to be with our mother's. Renee and I both are blessed to have our mother's and we thank God for them. My mom will be 82 years old on June 22. As I preached this past Sunday, I know it was a very difficult day for some because their mother is no longer with them. She has gone home to be with the Lord and her presence is no longer around. I know they must miss their mother's and I pray for each person that is minus theirs. Abraham Lincoln once said, "No man is poor that has a godly mother..." So true!

Ron

Vacation Bible School 2008

2008-05-06T19:52:00.000-07:00

Our Vacation Bible school this year will held on June 15-20. We will meet each night from 6:00 - 8:30 PM. There are classes for everyone including a nursery for the little ones. This years theme, "Outrigger Island" will be an exciting Bible school for everyone in our church. I know our workers and children are looking forward with anticipation to the Bible studies, crafts, missions, recreation and snacks. Our kick-off will be held on Saturday June 14 at our church. Make your plans now to invite someone and enjoy a week of "outrigger Island."

Ron

2008-05-02T21:37:00.000-07:00

HOW MUCH IS A MOTHER WORTH?

This afternoon at 6:00 PM, we had our "Mother/Daughter Banquet," at New Prospect. There were over 100 present and everyone had a wonderful time. Emily Head shared about her experiences with her late mother, Janice Wakefield and the ideas behind her book, "Heaven: And How to Get there." I know the ladies were blessed and I thank God for Sharon Alexander and the countless hours preparing for the conference.

Mother's Day is just one week away, May 11th. There are many things that I could say about "Mother's, Stay-at- home moms, etc. But for the most part, "their price is far above rubies."

What would the typical stay-at-home mother make if she were paid for her work should as a housekeeper, cook or psychologist.
Salary.com compiled the information and judged it to be $138,000 yearly. Their research said the typical mother puts in a 92-hour work week, thus giving her 40 hours base pay and 52 hours overtime.
Here are some of the jobs comprising a mother's work: housekeeper, cook, day care center teacher, laundry machine operator, van driver, facilities manager, janitor, computer operator, chief executive officer and psychologist! (Reuters, 5-2)As we approach Mother's Day Sunday after next, all of us know there is really no way to calculate the worth of a good, godly mother. The monetary figure barely scratches the surface. Thank God for mothers!

*Picture above is a young mother from Romania, taken at the Esther Foundation...(6-10-07)

Ron

2008-04-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

"Yet you do not have because you do not ask." (James 4:2)

There was a saying of George Mueller that faith grows with use. If we would have great faith we must begin to use the little faith we already have. Put it to work by reverent and faithful praying, and it will grow and become stronger day by day. Dare to trust God for something small and ordinary and next week or next year you may be able to trust Him for answers bordering on the miraculous.

Everyone has some faith, said Mueller; the difference among us is one of degree only, and the man of small faith may be simply the one who has not dared to exercise the little faith he has.
According to the Bible, we have because we ask, or we have not because we ask not. It does not take much wisdom to discover our next move. Is it not to pray, and pray again and again till the answer comes? God waits to be invited to display His power in behalf of His people. The world situation is such that nothing less than God can straighten it out. Let us not fail the world and disappoint God by failing to pray.

Ron

Compel People To Come In

2008-04-16T20:22:00.000-07:00

And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation."
(Mark 16:15)

People need the Lord. But they will never know the Lord unless you and I are willing to share Jesus with our world. It's what God has called every one of us to do.

In Luke 14, beginning in verse 15, Jesus tells a story, or parable, of a beautiful banquet that has been prepared. But when the master of the house says, "Invite the guests," all the guests begin to make excuses. They all reject the master's invitation. So the master says, "Fine, go tell the blind, the lame, the maimed; go into the highways and hedges, go into the streets, the lanes, the back alleys and invite all of those folks to come in."

This parable gives us important insight into our responsibility to share the gospel. First, verse 21 shows who is to go and extend the invitation to the banquet, the servants. If we are servants of the Lord Jesus Christ, it's our job to share Christ to issue the invitation to his "banquet" of salvation.

Next, it shows how we are to go. Verse 22 says, "And the servant said, 'Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.' And the master said to the servant, 'Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in.'" We're to go and share the gospel in every form and every fashion with every kind of method that we can use that honors God!

Third, we are shown who are we to go to. Verse 21 again shows us that we're to go and reach the poor: the physically poor, materially poor, spiritually poor. All are poor without the Lord Jesus Christ.
And when are we to go? Again, verse 21 says we're to go quickly. There's never been an opportunity better than right now.

Finally, we are told in verse 23, why are we to go. "That my house may be filled." Jesus is talking about His heavenly house, and He is looking for us to reach more and more people who need to hear the invitation of the Lord Jesus Christ to spend eternity with Him.
God has prepared the banquet of salvation. Are you willing to be His servant, going to a spiritually hungry world and extending His invitation to come and dine with Him for eternity? I hope your answer is YES!

Above is a picture of Evangelist Junior Hill and myself at New Prospect Baptist church. Bro. Junior has preached in over 1300 revivals and multitudes have come to faith in Christ from his faithfulness to the gospel. Like the passage of scriputure above, he has been faithful inviting people to Jesus for over 50 years. "Well done, thy good and faithful servant!"

Ron

Overcoming Distractions

2008-04-10T18:24:00.000-07:00

"But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly." (Matthew 6:6)

Among the enemies to devotion none is so harmful as distractions.
Whatever excites the curiosity, scatters the thoughts, disquiets the heart, absorbs the interests or shifts our life focus from the kingdom of God within us to the world around us, that is a distraction; and the world is full of them. Our science based civilization has given us many benefits but it has multiplied our distractions and so taken away far more than it has given....
The remedy for distractions is the same now as it was in earlier and simpler times: prayer, meditation and the cultivation of the inner life. The psalmist said "Be still, and know," and Christ told us to enter into our closet, shut the door and pray unto the Father.
It still works....

Distractions must be conquered or they will conquer us. So let us cultivate simplicity; let us want fewer things; let us walk in the Spirit; let us fill our minds with the Word of God and our hearts with praise. In that way we can live in peace even in such a distraught world as this. "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you."

Ron

Soul Winning Messages

2008-04-03T13:32:00.000-07:00

This Sunday I will begin a two part series of messages on "Soul Winning." Our text will be Romans 9:1-5. We will study the desire of the apostle Paul to see his people, the Jews, come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. I look forward seeing you with open Bible, receptive heart and a burden for souls.

Our 6th Annual Romania Mission Golf Tournament is just a few weeks away, May 17. This is a 4 Man Scramble tournament and the only cost is $50 per man or $200 per team. I still need Hole Sponsors and if your business, Sunday school class, civic group, etc; would like to be a sponsor, just contact me by phone or email ronhorton@centurytel.net You can also register online at http://www.newprospectweb.org/ We will begin the tournament with lunch at 11:30 AM and have a "putting contest" and start the tournament around 1:00 PM. Pray for "dry weather!"

This tournament is all about "soul winning" overseas in Romania. The picture above is me presenting Pastor Irinel Cazacu of Ploesti Romania, partnership support for their mission churches.
The money raised in our golf tournament will go toward helping churches in Romania reach their neighbors, friends and family with the gospel. There is "no business like Soul Business!"

Bro. Ron

Welcome to Ron's Blog!

2008-04-01T19:36:00.000-07:00

Well,
I finally joined the world of the bloggers. I hope this new means of communication will be a source of inspiration as well as information.
As I write these words, I am reminded once again of the brevity of life. I have had so many friends pass through the "valley of the shadow of death" in these past few months. For those who have received the Lord as their Savior, it is but a glorious journey. He has gone before them to "prepare a place" far better than any place I have ever been or seen. I know that many of their loved ones miss them deeply. I miss them as well. But those who knew Jesus would never want to come back to this land but rather stay in the "land that is fairer than day." We may not have much longer ourselves. We need to be sharing our faith with those that are not prepared to make the appointment, but will one day (Heb. 9:27). I have been blessed to serve as a pastor for 18 years in two different churches. I have conducted many funeral services but never preached a single persons funeral. They did that while they were alive on planet earth. Today, Lord help all of us to preach it well.

Ron