My Mother - "Her Strengths are Unsurpassed" (by Stephen Simpson)

Connie Simpson with her two sons Scott & Stephen

May is the time of year when we celebrate Mother's Day. Ephesians 6:2 reminds us that we are to "Honor your father and mother." It is always right to honor your mother. This year, we invited members of our congregation to share with us the secrets of being a great mother. Today's post comes from Stephen Simpson.

What Makes My Mother so Great?

Her Honesty

My mother is honest.  I trust her completely.  Some mothers tell their children what they (the children) want to hear instead of what they need to hear.  Some mothers mislead and even lie to their children.  It is a tremendous gift from God that I can trust my mother.  She keeps her word.

Her Compassion

I have seen few people as compassionate as my mother.  I have watched her lovingly care for two different individuals in their final years.  The patience and kindness she demonstrated was truly uncommon.  I have also been on the receiving end of her compassion many times.  There have been some dark and difficult times in my life.  At those times, my mother has been there with tremendous acts of compassion.  What a blessing it is to have a compassionate mother! 

Her Love for Her Grandchildren

Another reason that my mother is great is this:  She loves her grandchildren.  I have seen grandparents grow indifferent to their grandchildren.  I have seen grandparents have little or no relationship with their grandchildren.  This is not true of my mother.  She loves her "GrandS" and she loves them all equally.  There have been many times when she has called just to see if she could come over and see her GrandS.  She loves hugging them and spending time with them.  She will gladly prepare an impromptu picnic in her backyard at the request of a granddaughter.  It is such a blessing for my children to have a grandmother who loves them.

Her Love for My Father

It is becoming increasingly uncommon to see a mother who faithfully loves the father of her children for over 40 years.  Too often, today's marriages are viewed as temporary relationships.  Since 1969, my mother has loved my father.  I have watched her love him, support him, care for him, and encourage him all of my life.  This is one of the best gifts that she has given to my brother and me.  This truly makes her a great mother.

My mother is not perfect.  But, she is great.  She has her weaknesses.  But, her strengths are unsurpassed.  May God raise up more mothers like mine.  I thank God that Connie Simpson is my mother.

• Read More of our Special Mother's Day Posts

My Mommy - "She Hugs Us" (by Abigail, Esther, & Josiah Simpson)

Esther & Nicki Simpson

May is the time of year when we celebrate Mother's Day.  Ephesians 6:2 reminds us that we are to "Honor your father and mother."  It is always right to honor your mother.  This year, we invited members of our congregation to share with us the secrets of being a great mother.  Today's post comes from three small children:  Abigail (age 6), Esther (4), and Josiah (almost 17 months).  They write about their mommy ~ Nicki Simpson.  Actually, they told me, and I wrote it down :).

What is So Great About Your Mommy?

• "She takes care of us."  Abigail
• "She hugs us."  Esther
• "She tucks us in for bed."  Esther
• "She takes us out to eat and to the park."  Abigail
• "She takes us to the library so I can do my quizzes and get more books."  Abigail
• "She takes us to church."  Abigail
• "She coached our soccer team."  Abigail
• Abigail said her mommy is great because "She has us as her children."  
• "She taught me how to read."  Abigail
• "She taught me how to read the alphabet books."  Esther
• "She takes care of us and helps us when we are hurt by putting bandaids on our boo-boos."  Esther
• "She reads books to us."  Abigail
• "She is so great because of everything she endured to bring me into this world."  Josiah 
• "She lets me tickle her neck."  Josiah

Josiah, Abigail, & Esther Simpson

• Read more of our Special Mother's Day Posts

The Conviction to Lead: 25 Principles for Leadership That Matters (a book recommendation)

I recently finished Albert Mohler's new book, The Conviction to Lead:  25 Principles for Leadership that Matters.  It was fantastic and I highly recommend it.  With only 213 pages, the book was easily accessible and I never felt bogged down.  Mohler structured the book around 25 short leadership principles and spent one chapter on each one.  My favorite chapters were Leaders are Readers (12), Leadership as Stewardship (16), The Leader as Writer (20), and The Leader's Legacy (25).

Here are some highlights from the book.

• "Management is not the same as leadership."  p. 16
    
• "You can divide all leaders into those who merely hold an office or position and those who hold great convictions."  p. 25
    
• "This book is written with the concern that far too much of what passes for leadership today is mere management.  Without convictions you might be able to manage, but you cannot really lead."  p. 26
    
• "A robust and rich model of Christian thinking - the quality of thinking that culminates in a God-centered worldview - requires that we see all truth as interconnected."  p. 45
     
• "Passion must arise out of conviction."  p. 52
      
• "When the mission is ambiguous and the beliefs of the organization are nebulous, passion dissipates quickly."  p. 55
      
• "The conscious denial of reality is a central danger of leadership, and the leader must defend against this temptation."  p. 61
      
• "If the right decision were always clear to everyone, we would not need leaders."  p. 63
       
• "The best leaders know that the road to great effectiveness is paved with intentional communications, and the very best leaders are always learning how to be even more effective as communicators."  p. 92
     
• "If a leader has to look for a message, his leadership is doomed."  p. 92
      
• "When a true leader shows up, we already know what he is going to say."  p. 97
      
• "A leader without accountability is an accident waiting to happen."  p. 112
      
• "Common goals are the product of intensive communication, enduring influence, and constant affirmation."  p. 118
      
• "The sovereignty of God puts us in our place, and that place is in God's service." p. 135
      
• "Leaders have to be concerned not only with what their organization is doing but with what it ought to be doing."  p. 138
      
• "Indecisiveness is one of history's greatest leadership killers."  p. 142
      
• "Leaders will be humble, or they will be humbled."  p. 154
      
• "Leaders write because words matter and because the written word matters longer and reaches farther than the words we speak."  p. 172
     
• "The leaders who make the biggest difference are those with long tenure."  p. 191
      
• "Leaders often overestimate what can be accomplished in a single year, but underestimate what can be accomplished in a decade."  p. 194
      
• "There is no place as humbling as a cemetery - and there is no place more likely to remind the leader of the limits of one's leadership."  p. 201
       
• "There are no indispensable people, only indispensable convictions."  p. 202
      
• "The leader's central concern with regard to legacy is the perpetuation of conviction."  p. 208
      

Buy this book today from Amazon.

12 Books I Read in 2012 (by Stephen Simpson)

A few years ago, I started keeping a list (via spreadsheet) of all the books that I finish.  I have found it tremendously useful in helping me remember what I have read.  Here is a quick look at what I read in 2012.

• The Myth of the Garage - read this book for free on my kindle; I think I know why it was free; 
• Going Public - Your Child Can Thrive in Public School - an excellent book; probably the best book I read in 2012.  Read a blog post I wrote about this book.
• The Rockefellers - This book I borrowed from Pastor Osborne's office.  It is a long book.  But, I enjoyed learning about this family and the vast amounts of wealth that they had to deal with. 
• License to Pawn - If you like the show Pawn Stars, you will like this book.  It is the story of Rick Harrison, the main character of the show.  He has not lived the cleanest life, so it is not the cleanest book.  But, I found it very interesting. 
• The Hunger Games Trilogy - Brace yourself...I did not enjoy these books.  I read them all and just failed to connect with the story.  To me, it was all pretty dumb.  But, that's just my opinion.
• Seal Team Six - Memoirs of an Elite Navy Seal Sniper - The author, a retired member of Seal Team 6, writes about his experiences.  I found this book fascinating.
• The Hands-On Dad - heard this author speak at the FPEA Homeschool Convention and borrowed his book from the library.  Short book, but really good for Dads of homeschoolers.
• Liar's Poker - another book I read for free on my kindle; another waste of time
• Ivanhoe - classic book; Robin Hood, Richard the Lionheart, a timeless tale; what more could you ask for?  I literally could not put this book down.  
• Tempted and Tried - I loved the first book by this author (Adopted for Life).  I struggled to connect with this one.  It dealt with the temptations of Jesus.  I think it is an excellent book, my brain just had a difficult time working through it.

As I look back on what I read in 2012, frankly I am somewhat disappointed.  I did not enjoy nor benefit from much of what I read.  The highlights were Going Public, The Rockefellers, and Ivanhoe.  They stood out far above the rest.  Others like License to Pawn and Seal Team Six were 'just for fun' and I enjoyed them.  The rest of these books were notable in that they were dreadfully forgettable.  

I am resolved to make better choices in what I read in 2013.  With all of the books that are available to read, there is no excuse for reading a dud!

Now it's your turn.  Leave a comment below.  Did you read any of these books?  What did you think about them?  What books did you read in 2012?  

Related Posts:

• 13 Books I Read in 2011 (by Stephen Simpson)
• Some Books I Read in 2011 and Some Books I Intend to Read in 2012 (by Peter Brock)

A Tale of Two Piano Teachers (by Stephen Simpson)

Over 23 years ago, I took my first piano lesson.  I was 8 years old.  It is hard to believe that I have been playing the piano for 23 years.  Over my musical 'career,' I have studied piano with at least 5 different piano teachers.  Most of them taught me for only a year or two.  I benefited from every one of them.  However, two of them stand out above all the rest.  One taught me to love the piano.  The other taught me to excel at piano.

A Love for the Piano

In 1990, I began 3rd grade at Lakeland Christian School (LCS).  There were many things about 3rd grade that I did not like.  However, during my 3rd grade school year, I began taking piano lessons from Audrey Parrish at LCS.  My memories of her are similar to a child's memories of a loving grandparent.  She was kind and patient.  She taught me to love the piano.  Mrs. Parrish carefully took me through each of the piano method books.  I never remember her losing her temper or being frustrated.  For 6 years she invested in my life.  I can still remember a day during the summer between 8th & 9th grade.  A letter came to my house informing us that Mrs. Parrish was retiring from teaching piano at LCS.  I remember crying.  Imagine an 8th grade boy crying at the loss of his piano teacher.  This should communicate volumes to you about Audrey Parrish. 

Recently, I learned that Mrs. Parrish had passed away.  I will never forget the investment that she made in my life.  She taught me to love the piano.

Excellence at the Piano
In the fall of 1999, I entered Bob Jones University as a freshman Music Education major.  As I arrived on campus, I did not personally know anyone in the music department.  As a piano principal, I was required to audition.  In God's providence, I was assigned to the piano studio of Dr. Susan Kindall.  Looking back, this decision was the pivotal point of my four years in college.

Having already developed a deep love for the piano, Dr. Kindall taught me to excel at the piano.  I developed a strong technique at the piano that has helped me tremendously as I accompany and teach.  She pushed me to set high expectations and to not settle for 'good enough.'  Even though I was a Music Education major, she taught me as if I were a Piano Performance major.  At my juries, I was often commended by other teachers for exceeding the requirements of a Music Education major.  For Dr Kindall, it was never about meeting the minimum requirements.  It was about maximizing my potential for the glory of God.

Watching Dr. Kindall, I learned how to be a strong Christian while interacting with a lost world.  Dr. Kindall would frequently bring guest artists to the campus who were not Christian.  Her testimony to them was above reproach.  

I will never forget Mrs. Parrish or Dr. Kindall.  All of the students who I teach feel the effects of these two teachers.  Each day, as I teach, I am working to inspire my students to love the piano while at the same time pushing them towards excellence.

May God grant us many more teachers like Audrey Parrish and Susan Kindall.

 
Related Posts:

• The Shocking Truth about Piano Lessons

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The Beatitudes - Happy are those who Suffer (by Stephen Simpson)

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.” (v. 10-11 ESV)

Verses 10 & 11 are best taken together as one Beatitude - the final one. Happy are those who suffer for the sake of righteousness and truth. Again, we must understand how this would have sounded to the Jew sitting there listening to Jesus’ words.  They expected to hear Jesus say, "Your suffering is over!"  Instead, He said, "Rejoice in your persecution."


Here, especially, is where the world does not understand Christianity. The world has tried to eliminate Christianity through suffering and persecution. They tried crucifying the apostles. They beheaded some. They dipped some in tar and set them on fire to provide light for their parties. They burned them at the stake. The persecution continues to this day. Just because we live in America and may not hear about it, does not mean that Christians are not murdered for righteousness’ sake.

I was recently told by one of our missionaries to Mali, that one of the national pastors in Mali has had to flee to the US because there is a price on his head.  Islamic terrorists want him - dead or alive.  We in the US must not be naive. Persecution of Christianity is flourishing throughout the world.  Hundreds of Christians have had to flee Northern Mali.  Churches are being attacked in Nigeria. Spend some time at www.persecution.com and you will see that persecution is spread all around the world. 

But as Christians, we are to rejoice in sufferings and persecutions. What is to be our response to suffering for righteousness’ sake?

“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matt. 5:12)

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.


Other Posts in this series:

1. The Secret to True Happiness
2. Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
3. How Poor Is Your Spirit?
4. What Makes You Mourn?
5. How Meek Are You?
6. Are You Satisfied?
7. Blessed Are the Merciful
8. Do You Have Mixed Motives? 
9. Be a Peacemaker - Preach the Gospel! 

Do You Shop on Amazon? (by Stephen Simpson)

Have you ever purchased anything on Amazon.com?  Maybe you bought a book or some sheets.  Perhaps you splurged and bought a kindle.  Whatever it was, did you realize that your purchase could have helped support the ministry at FBC?

It is really quite simple.  Amazon has created an affiliate program where websites (like ours) can earn money by promoting Amazon.  In other words, Amazon will send FBC money if we send them paying customers.  The neat thing is that many of us already shop at Amazon.  We have already found out that they often have the lowest prices around and they offer Free Shipping for many of their orders.

How does this work?

Once again, it is really quite simple.  You may have noticed that we have links to Amazon on the sidebar of our blog.  We also place links to items within our blog posts.  For example, all of the links in this post are 'FBC links.'

If you go to Amazon.com through one of our 'FBC links' and complete a purchase, then FBC will earn a commission from your purchase.  If you simply type "www.amazon.com" and then complete your purchase, then FBC will not earn a commission.

Will Amazon.com charge me more for purchasing items this way?

Nope.  Their prices are same regardless of whether FBC earns a commission or not.

Does FBC earn a commission on everything I buy?

Yes!  You can buy dishes, books, laptops, mp3 players, tools, diaper bags, formula, jewelry, exercise equipment, automotive parts, etc.  Think of Amazon as your 'online supercenter!'

How much does FBC earn?

The base earnings rate is 4% and increases as more items are purchased.  

How much has FBC actually earned?

In 2011, we earned $187.78.  So far, in 2012, we have earned $259.33.

So, we encourage you to shop at Amazon through one of our affiliate links.  Your purchases will help support the ministry of FBC.  Leave us a comment if you have any questions about this.

What do you like to purchase from Amazon?

The Edges of God (by Stephen Simpson)

(Enjoy this post from our archives.  It was originally posted March 3, 2008.)

Have you ever been surprised by Scripture? If you are like me, then you are often surprised by what you read in Scripture. God will bring you to a verse that just totally blows you away. That happened to me recently as I was reading Job 26.

I find Job to be one of the more difficult books of the Bible to read. My mind just has trouble keeping track of all of the 'discourses.' However, chapter 26 jumped out and shocked me. It was totally amazing. In this chapter, Job describes the majesty of God. He begins with,  

"How you have helped him who has no power! How you have saved the arm that has no strength!" (ESV)

Job devotes the entire chapter to this subject. Verse after verse describes how powerful, and mighty, and majestic our God is. Another interesting verse is verse 7,  

"He stretches out the north over the void and hangs the earth on nothing." 

This seems to be a reference to our planet being suspended in space.

But I haven't even reached the best part yet! Job continues on through his discourse and reaches his climax with the last verse.  

"Behold, these are but the outskirts of his ways, and how small a whisper do we hear of him!" 

 The term 'outskirts' is very interesting. It can be translated edges or corners or coasts. The point Job is making is that everything we know about God represents only the very edges of His ways. Everything we hear is but a small whisper.

So, here's the challenge for today. Read and meditate on Job 26. And as you travel through this week, consider the edges of God's majesty. Listen to His thunderings and understand that they are but a whisper.

Thoughts from the FPEA Homeschool Convention (by Stephen Simpson)

Just over a month ago, Nicki & I attended the FPEA Homeschool Convention in Orlando.  Having decided to homeschool our oldest daughter for Kindergarten this fall, we attended this convention hoping to learn more, in general, about homeschooling.

Overall, it was a great time.  I thought I would share with you some of the things I learned.

1. You can't homeschool if you are never home!
2. No two homeschooling families are alike.  I already knew this, but it was never more obvious than at this convention.  Homeschool families come in all different shapes and sizes.  Everybody homeschools differently.  This is very comforting.
3. It is important to have a vision for my children.  This is true for every parent regardless of whether they homeschool.  What do you want you child to be like in 10 or 15 years?  Answer that question and then develop a plan to make it happen. 
4. God created individuals - not classrooms.
5. Good Stories are better than textbooks.  None of us remember a favorite textbook from elementary school or high school.  Yet, we all remember our favorite stories.  Too often we quickly forget what we read in a textbook.
6. Long-Term memory is more valuable than short-term memory.  Teach for long-term memory.
7. Each child is uniquely created just like a fingerprint.  So, teach each child differently.
8. Use an inflatable globe.  It won't break when it falls down the stairs or when it gets knocked over. :)
9. The essence of home education is the parent/child relationship.
10. Raising good people is more important than raising smart people.
11. Education and schooling are not the same thing.
12. I need to spend more time thinking through the concept of an Age Segregated Church vs. a Family Integrated Church.  I was introduced to this concept at the convention and I'm not sure what I think about it yet.  It is very interesting.  Look it up...\

Did you attend the FPEA Convention?  If so, what did you learn? 

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The Shocking Truth About Piano Lessons (by Stephen Simpson)

(Photo by Paul Cleveland)

I am a piano teacher.  By my calculations, I have taught almost 70 different students.  They have been of varying ages and abilities.  Some have taken lessons for a short time and others have taken for years.  In my experience, I have come to realize one shocking truth about piano lessons.

My job as a piano teacher is not to teach you how to play the piano. 

This may seem scandalous to you given the significant amounts of money that parents have paid me over the years to teach their children.  But, the truth must come out - I am not ultimately trying to teach you how to play the piano.

My primary goal is much different.  Here is my secret.  I am trying to teach you how to practice.  Most people that I encounter do not know how to practice.  They know they should practice and they may think they know how to practice.  I have seen too many students spend hours practicing only to find that their practicing has accomplished very little.  They come to their lesson and tell me that they have practiced two hours over the previous week.  However, when I listen to them play their pieces, it becomes obvious that they did not know how to practice because their pieces have improved very little, if at all.

You see, when I teach a 10 year old boy to play the piano, I am thinking about his future.  I am thinking that some day he will be an adult.  I am thinking that someday he will be a member of a church who may need a pianist to play for their choir.  Even though he may work as a manager at Publix, I want to have taught him the skills necessary to be a useful accompanist at his church.  This is why it is so important for me to teach him how to practice.  If I simply teach him to play a piece of music, I have not necessarily taught him any of the skills required in learning new music.  I have not taught him to read music.  I have not taught him to identify the problems he is having with the music.  I have not taught him how to solve the problems he is encountering.

So, I firmly believe that if I can teach you how to practice, then I have taught you a useful skill that you can use for the rest of your life.  In my opinion, playing a piece of music is easy.  Understanding how to practice efficiently and effectively is very difficult - which is why I spend so much time trying to teach this skill.

There you have it, the shocking truth about piano lessons is that I am not actually trying to teach you to play the piano.  I am trying to teach you how to teach yourself!

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The Beatitudes: Be a Peacemaker - Preach the Gospel! (by Stephen Simpson)

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matt. 5:9 - ESV)

As we continue through The Beatitudes, understand the ‘shock-factor’ in Christ’s statement. The Jews were not looking for peace. They were looking for victory over Rome. In their minds, peace was not an option for all of the wrongs that had been committed against them. Yet, Jesus came preaching “blessed are the peacemakers. Blessed are those who actually pursue and promote and foster and make peace.”

Like most of the Beatitudes, we must be careful to not misunderstand these words of Jesus. Jesus’ words have nothing to do with political peace. Jesus is not primarily concerned about peace between nations or even peace between you and your neighbor. Jesus has spiritual peace in mind – Peace between man and God.

Peacemakers are needed because there is sin in the world. Sin has broken the peace between God and man. John MacArthur has written in his commentary on this passage, “Men are without peace because they are without God.”  Blessed is the man who seeks to restore that peace.

So, how do we ‘make’ peace? 

1. First of all, we must make peace between ourselves and God. We must trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. He is our peace. He is the only way we can be reconciled to God.
2. Secondly, we must preach the Gospel. “To preach Christ is to promote peace.” (MacArthur) A peacemaker recognizes those who have no peace and shows them how to find true peace. A peacemaker points to Jesus Christ as the only way to have peace with God.

A godly peace-maker is one who passionately pursues peace without sacrificing truth. “Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” (Matt. 10:34) A peacemaker passionately defends and promotes the truth even when the truth does not appear, at first glance, to foster peace. A peacemaker lovingly but honestly says “you are a sinner.”

Blessed are the peacemakers. Blessed are the evangelists. Blessed are those who tell other people how to have peace with God. 

Other Posts in this series:

1. The Secret to True Happiness
2. Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
3. How Poor Is Your Spirit?
4. What Makes You Mourn?
5. How Meek Are You?
6. Are You Satisfied?
7. Blessed Are the Merciful
8. Do You Have Mixed Motives? 
9. Be a Peacemaker - Preach the Gospel!  

Support FBC simply by visiting:

Meet Our FBM Missionaries - Tim & Janice Phillips (part 2)

(Tim & Janice Phillips, Mikayla and Jayson)

Today we continue introducing our FBM Missionaries.  Tim & Janice Phillips serve in Niamey, Niger with their two children, Mikayla and Jayson.  Tim & Janice answered our questionnaire separately.  Last time we heard from Janice.  Today we hear from Tim.

Briefly share your salvation experience and your call to ministry.

I was raised in a Christian home in Cedarville, OH. I had many Christian influences around me. As a result, I made a profession of salvation when I was 5 yrs. old and was baptized when I was 8. Growing up, however, proved that the relationship with Christ was more important and that became very evident to me in high school and college. I never intended to be on the mission field. I loved teaching and thought I would always be in America doing just that. Then one of my kids’ dads came to me to ask if I would be willing to go teach in Africa. After a bit of hesitating, I felt this is just what God had for me for a change. Boy, did he change my life that year. Not only did missions become something of importance to me, but I met my wife! I went in single and came out married! My wife and I decided not to pursue going back to Africa just because we met there, but after some time and not us talking about it, we came to the same conclusion that we need to at least pursue it until God closed the door. After much prayer, we decided that we were to return to Africa, but didn’t know where since ICA had just closed its doors. Through many stories too long to state here, we ended up in Niger. While Niger is not a vacation hotspot, I cannot imagine being someplace else The kids are great, the people are great and this ministry to MK’s is just awesome.

What did you do before you were a missionary?

I taught high school history and government at Kokomo Christian High School.

Tell us about your current ministry. Where are you and what are you doing?

We are at Sahel Academy serving as dorm parents to 17 wonderful children with wonderful families.

How long have you been serving as a missionary?

We are completing our 5th year. One year in Quebec and four years here.

What does a typical day look like for you while you are on the field?

For me, there are no typical days which are something I love. I get up, see the kids off to school, and then start on projects. Sometimes I spend time fixing lights, toilets, or an assortment of things. We do all the shopping for the dorm as my wife oversees all the meals. When the kids come home from school, there is homework to help with, projects to do, and sometimes just playing ping pong(I know, tough life ) While the kids are in school, I have spent time talking with our guards, learning language, which is still an ongoing problem for me. I find that building relationships seems to be something I do with not only the MK’s, but also with the Africans. I also help out with the school’s hot lunch program to be sure all have paid and all get what they ordered. I coach softball during the tournament times and play a lot, also. I am sure that there are many more things, but they all run together. I just do things that need to get done.

As you reflect on the years you have spent as a missionary, please share with us some of the highlights of your ministry.

Seeing one of the dorm kids as well as our daughter accept Jesus! After that? I think just watching the dorm kids grow, mature and take on more and more responsibility. This is a rather large family we build here, so to see the dorm kids succeed makes us righteously proud (I learned that word from other missionaries) Watching these teens walk lives that are worthy of our Savior is just incredible!

What have been some of the biggest challenges that you have faced on the field?

Language, the heat, sometimes interpersonal relationships, etc. I always have to tell myself, “these kids are really good kids, don’t major on the minor things!”  You know sometimes when people in general drive you nuts and kids are no different. You ask them to do something and they don’t, so you ask them again, and they still don’t. That is a challenge because of all the different cultures we come from. I often tell the kids when we have to remind them all to do something that this will not make a difference for eternity! There are things way more important.

What person(s) has had the biggest influence on your life?

Really? What a question. Probably John Jackson. He is the man who got me to Africa the first time. At least he planted the seed for God to grow. When he and his family came home from South Africa, his family became my family and I loved the way he guided his family closer to God. But there are many more

What would you say to encourage others (young or old) to consider full-time missions as a profession?

That is a good question. Missions aren’t for everyone, especially here. But I would never say that until they have tried it. A short term mission trip is a great thing when it is not just a two week thing. Those trips are great, but you can’t make a good judgment for a career until you have been someplace a year or two. Take those steps of faith. Kids all the time would ask me what the will of God is for them. My reply was always, “Obey the Word of God!” If you are in the Word, obeying and living it, you will know exactly what God wants in your life. I don’t believe His Will is meant to be secretive. Obey and listen to God.

Please share some specific prayer requests with us.

• Again, language. I am trying to get more fluent in French, but would love to speak Zarma, also.
• Consistency as a dorm dad.
• Good leadership to lead this dorm where God wants it to go… as well as my own family so my two little ones don’t get lost in the mix.

What are some current needs that you have and what can we do to help meet those needs?

Right now, getting ready to come home on furlough, we have no idea of what we are doing. We need a house, a car and money to pay for it all. We have none of those three. We know God will provide when we need them, but it would be easier if we could make plans. I have no idea of how to go about raising funds. With only a year, I know many churches won’t be able to schedule me for at least 8 months to a year and we really need to raise more funds to be able to return here. I just don’t know what to expect, I guess is a better way of saying all that. We really want this year to be a year of recuperation, but also of developing and renewing relationships there in North America. So, please pray that all this gets accomplished and that there are people back in Indiana who are already doing stuff that we don’t know about yet!

Meet Some of Our Other FBM Missionaries:

• Kathy Miller
• Tim & Janice Phillips (part 1)
• Tim & Janice Phillips (part 2)
• Ken & Sarah Beckley
• Cindy Faile  

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Meet Our FBM Missionaries - Tim & Janice Phillips (part 1)

(Tim & Janice Phillips, Mikayla and Jayson)

Today we continue introducing our FBM Missionaries.  Tim & Janice Phillips serve in Niamey, Niger with their two children, Mikayla and Jayson.  Tim & Janice answered our questionnaire separately.  So, today we will hear Janice's answers.  Next time, we will hear from Tim.

Briefly share your salvation experience and your call to ministry.

I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'. I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. 

I was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. When I was 7 our pastor's daughter was baptized, through her testimony it dawned on me that I needed to make my own profession of faith, so I knelt in the pew and asked Jesus to forgive me and committed my life to him. When I was 17 my parents moved to Quito, Ecuador. I went to the Alliance Academy to do grade 12. I saw missionaries up close and personal... anyway the experience changed my life. I came back to Canada and started school in Regina, Saskatchewan to become a missionary. After earning a BA in Biblical Studies and an MA in missiology I went to Bouaké, Côte d'Ivoire to Bethel Dorm to be a Dorm assisstant. I was there from 1991-2001, where I met my sweetie who is now my husband, Tim (and still my sweetie). Our daughter Mikaylah was born in 2004 and our son Jayson was born in 2006. We now live in Niamey, Niger where we serve as dorm parents at the Sahel Academy.  

What did you do before you were a missionary?

I spent one gap year working at Instant Custom Signs as a manager. I spent another year helping in a church plant in rural Ontario. I also had odd jobs at the YWCA and Menard's (a hardware store in Indiana).

Tell us about your current ministry. Where are you and what are you doing?

Currently my husband Tim and I are "Co-parents" to 17 teenagers at the Sahel Academy, in Niamey, Niger, West Africa. Our "kids" come from five different "passport countries" Including Benin, Great Britain, Korea, New Zealand and USA. Their parents work in rural Niger, Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso and Togo. Their parents are in remote villages where there is no way to educate their children. We provide a home away  from home so the teens can study at Sahel Academy.

How long have you been serving as a missionary? 

Since 1991.

What does a typical day look like for you while you are on the field?

Our day usually starts about 6am... after breakfast and morning routine the kids are off to school by 7:25 depending on the day there is either shopping, Bible Study, Dorm Staff meeting or Moms in Touch Prayer Meeting.  I am also directing our house helpers.  I provide lunch for our house workers and our smallest child is in Kindergarten so he comes home for lunch too. We try to have Siesta after lunch, make snack ready for the kids when they get home from school, then there are piano lessons, homework, supper prep, and after supper devotions. The bedtime routine begins at 7pm and usually all the kids are in bed by 10:30 or 11, depending on the crises of the day :) The weekends are a little more lax but, with 21 people in the house you can imagine the energy :)

As you reflect on the years you have spent as a missionary, please share with us some of the highlights of your ministry.

Mentoring kids through their teen years has its own joys and sorrows. Adding the fact that none of these children are in their native culture or living with their nuclear family. Now that many of "my kids" are grown up and are using their lives to glorify God and shine for him wherever they are from Korea to Africa to Europe, Canada and the USA, I am humbled and rejoice that the Lord has allowed me to have an influence on so many.

What have been some of the biggest challenges that you have face on the field?

Probably one of the biggest challenges is raising our own children within our "transient" family. Dealing with the grief of saying "good bye" is something that never goes away, something that we all must deal with until we are finally home in heaven.

What person(s) has had the biggest influence on your life? 

Hands down my parents.

What would you say to encourage others (young or old) to consider full-time missions as a profession?

While God can be glorified wherever you are and you can serve him no matter what you do for a living, I can't get away from the huge need for personnel.  I have yet to see a ministry that has said "we have plenty of workers, don't send any more"!  It feels like much of our prayer time is dedicated to begging God to provide more workers.

Please share some specific prayer request with us.

Ha ha, more workers :)   Personally, we are begging God daily for wisdom.  It seems that we are often making decisions that effect us, our kids or our workers or colleagues that are life-changing.  So, please pray that we will make wise God-centered decisions.

What are some current needs that you have and what can we do to help meet those needs?

We are coming up to our first home assignment as a family. This will be the first time our son has lived in the US and the first time our daughter will remember being in the US. We need to find a place to live, a school for our children to attend and a vehicle to get us around for a year. While we are looking forward to Taco Bell and Target and renewing relationships with our friends and family, it is actually stressful to think of all that has to be done within the year that we are in the US.

Meet Some of Our Other FBM Missionaries:

• Kathy Miller
• Tim & Janice Phillips (part 1)
• Tim & Janice Phillips (part 2)
• Ken & Sarah Beckley
• Cindy Faile  

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Someone You Know Trusts Planned Parenthood (by Stephen Simpson)

"Someone you know trusts Planned Parenthood"

Really?  Can this be true?  I recently saw this message printed on a new billboard in our town.  Previous billboards at this location have been much better.  They have promoted mouth-watering ribs from Sonny's or a local A/C contractor.  But now, a giant billboard from the nation's largest abortion provider greats all who drive by.

I have never been into a Planned Parenthood office.  I am afraid to go.  I am afraid of the emotions that would overwhelm me.  I am afraid that I would look at each employee or volunteer and wonder "How many unborn children have you helped murder?"  I cannot fathom trusting Planned Parenthood.  "Trust" and "Planned Parenthood" do not belong in the same universe, much less on the same billboard.

There are many things in life that we should trust.  I trust my children's pediatrician.  I trust him completely to care for my children.  I trust my Pastor.  I trust that he will always tell me the truth - regardless of whether I like it.  I trust my insurance agent.  He has provided sound advice and is a good friend.  Most of all, I trust my Savior - Jesus Christ.

But, I do not trust Planned Parenthood.  Why would I trust an organization that profits from the destruction of life?  How can I trust an organization that murdered 331,796 unborn children in 2009 and another 329,445 in 2010?  (source)  Each abortion they perform destroys an unborn life and grievously harms the life of the mother.

One who trusts Planned Parenthood is like the child who whines and cries to get whatever he wants.  The child says, "I want a candy bar."  The parent replies, "no."  The child then whines and cries and stomps on the ground.  Finally, the parent decides, "Fine.  You can have the candy bar."  In the child's mind, they have just solved their immediate problem.  All their troubles are over.  Tragically, the child does not see the dangerous path he is traveling on.  He does not realize that he is on his way to being an adult who pitches fits to get whatever he wants.

Trusting Planned Parenthood is just like this.  A woman experiences a legitimate crisis.  Often it is an unplanned pregnancy.  She is unsure what she should do.  Planned Parenthood offers her a quick and easy solution to her problems.  She does not like the solutions she hears elsewhere.  To her, they all sound like the parent who says "No."  So, she decides to 'trust' Planned Parenthood.  Just like the child, she gets her 'candy bar.'  Just like the child, she fails to realize the dangerous path she is headed down.  She has started down a hard road of grief, regret, and guilt.

There are many solid alternatives to Planned Parenthood that are worth trusting.  But, they do not offer quick and easy solutions.  Rather, they offer long-term solutions.  They offer hope.  The best of these alternatives offer salvation through Jesus Christ.

So, please, I beg you, do not ever trust Planned Parenthood.  At first it may seem like they have helped you.  But, in the long run you will see that they were not worthy of your trust. 

Related Posts:

• Planned Parenthood's Plan for My Child (by Stephen Simpson)
• Planned Parenthood, Gospel Generosity, & 9 Lessons to Learn

     

Abort73.com: Abortion Unfiltered

April Faith Day 2012 Report

Sunday, April 1st, 2012, was April Faith Day.  It was simply amazing to see what God did through our April Faith Day Offering.  Consider these 'offering stats.'

• The 2012 April Faith Day Offering was over $130,000.
• A total of 172 contributions were given towards the offering.
• The average contribution was $764.05.
• The largest single contribution was $15,000.
• The smallest contribution was $1.27.
• Almost 64% of the gifts were under $500.
• There were 40 gifts of $500 or more.
• There were 15 gifts of $1000 or more.
• There 3 gifts of $10,000 or more.

There is one big lesson we can learn from this year's April Faith Day offering - God cannot be limited.  In the conversations I have had, most have been stunned by this year's offering total.  Most of us thought that the offering would be considerable lower.  We assumed that giving would be down.  We assumed wrong.  God had other plans.  He once again reminded us that He will do whatever He pleases.  He is in control.  We simply are tools in His hand.  May this year's April Faith Day offering serve as a reminder that we cannot limit God.
  

Related Posts:

• April Faith Day 2011 - What Can We Learn?
• April Faith Day 2010
• Lessons from April Faith Day 2009

      
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Can Your Child Thrive in a Public School? (by Stephen Simpson)

Can your child thrive in a public school?  I believe the answer is YES!  Should your child attend a public school?  This is a much more difficult question to answer.  The answer to that question will vary from family to family.

My wife and I are currently facing this decision.  Our oldest daughter starts kindergarten this fall.  Needless to say, this is no easy decision.

Naturally, we have been doing some reading on these subjects and have talked with many people to get their counsel.  Recently, we came across a book entitled Going Public: Your Child Can Thrive in Public School.  Written by Christian authors, this book tells the story of one family who has sent all eight of their children through public schools.

Before we continue, please realize that the purpose of this post is not to settle the question of public school vs. private school vs. home-school.  The purpose of this post is simply to tell you about an excellent book.

Going Public does not promote or advocate public schools for everyone.  The authors do not say public school is the best option for everyone.  They have written their book for families who find themselves in public schools.  Many christian families send their children to public schools.  There are numerous reasons why public schools are the best (or only) option for these families.  Going Public was written to encourage these families and to let them know how their children can thrive in public schools. 

If your children are in public school, I cannot recommend this book highly enough.  The authors make several points that I especially appreciated.  Here are just a few highlights.

1. Everybody Should "Homeschool" - "God gave these children to us.  He gave your children to you.  He will hold each of us accountable for their upbringing.  We are their first and ultimate teachers.  What goes into their minds and souls is our responsibility." (p. 155)  This is so true!  Regardless of where our children go to school, we are responsible for their education.  We, as parents, are the ones who will give account to God for our children.  "We view ourselves as the primary instructors, and the classroom teacher as our deputy.  The ultimate outcome rests squarely on our shoulders."  (p. 157)  Imagine how our public schools would be different if every parent had this mindset!
2. Don't Complain! - "If we parents don't provide the school with a student who is (a) awake, (b) alert, (c) fed and (d) cooperative, we have no right to complain about test scores...If by some miracle, every public-school student showed up to class tomorrow morning with an obedient spirit, American education would be instantly revolutionized."  (p. 76)  
3. The Magic of Being Nice - The authors devote an entire chapter to encouraging parents to be nice in their interaction with teachers and school officials.  "The question is not whether to deal with substantive issues and disagreements.  The question, rather, is how to deal with them."  (p. 103)  This chapter is absolutely golden!  Consider the power of disagreeing with respect and with a soft answer.  Consider the power of humbly submitting to the authority of school officials - even if you disagree with their decision.  One of the most important lessons you can ever teach your children is how to properly submit to authority. 

All in all, this book will prove tremendously helpful to the parent of public-school children.  In fact, any parent would profit by reading this book - regardless of their schooling situation.

Other posts by Stephen Simpson that you might enjoy:

• Help Your Teenager Do Hard Things 
• Shepherding a Child's Heart - Is Your Child a Blank Slate?
• 13 Books I Read in 2011

  
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Meet Our FBM Missionaries - Kathy Miller

(Kathy Miller with one of her students)

Last fall, Faith Baptist Mission (FBM) welcomed an entire team of missionaries (read more about this).  These missionaries serve the Lord in the West African countries of Niger, Mali, Benin, and Nigeria.  What a joy it has been for FBM to partner with them.  Today we would like to start introducing each of these missionaries.  First up is Kathy Miller.

Briefly share your salvation experience and your call to ministry.  I was born in a Christian family and at the age of 8 I accepted the Lord into my life. My mother led me to the Lord. As a second grade child I mentioned to my parents that I wanted to be a school teacher when I grew up. My parents planted the seed in me to become a missionary school teacher. I felt burden for the children who were sent to boarding schools at a young age, and the Lord lead me to teach the young children where they were living, so that they did not need to be sent to a boarding school.

What did you do before you were a missionary?  I taught in the states for 10 while working on my Master’s in Reading. I taught 4th grade for 2 years, 2nd grade for one year and kindergarten for seven years, while in the states.years,

Tell us about your current ministry.  I am still teaching school. Right now I am living in Niamey, Niger teaching at Sahel Academy. This is my third year at the school. My first year I taught 5th/6th grades, last year was 3rd/4th grades and this year it is only 3rd grade.

How long have you been serving as a missionary? I joined EBM in 1985 and taught the families of children in Northern Mail for about 20 years. I lived in a few different villages during those years of teaching.

What does a typical day look like for you while you are on the field?

• My alarm goes off at 5:15 and I start the day with breakfast and devotions. 
• At 6:30 I leave my house and since I live on the school ground, I unlock the school buildings at that time for the national workers to get into the rooms to do their jobs. 
• At 7:10 I am outside for playground duty as the students are arriving at school. 
• 7:30 – 2:30 I am busy with teaching the students. 
• 2:30 – 5:30 giving piano lessons, attending teacher’s meetings, working in my classroom to prepare for the following day or week, etc.
• 5:30 – 9:00 back home for supper, Bible study, preparing for company, taking my dog for a walk, etc.
• 9:00 getting ready for bed

  

As you reflect on the years you have spent as a missionary, please share with us some of the highlights of your ministry.  While in Mali, working with the same family for 4 – 6 years. I got to know the students very well for teaching. Also being a part of the village church. While here in Niger, working with more than my mission group and leading little ones to the Lord. This school year I have been able to share with four of my students and lead them to the Lord. These students have been from Embassy homes.

What have been some of the biggest challenges that you have faced on the field?  As a single lady, I had to deal with loneliness, living by myself while in Mali. The families were wonderful whom I worked with, but I still did not have my own family to fellowship with. Here in Niger, I am around people all of the time, and I am enjoying the times I am by myself in my house.

What person(s) has had the biggest influence on your life?  My parents

What would you say to encourage others (young or old) to consider full-time missions as a profession?  Be in the Lord’s Will not your will. The Lord does not call everyone to serve Him overseas, but He does call all of us to serve Him wherever we are living.

Please share some specific prayer requests with us. On a daily basis I want my students to see Christ shine through me. My desire is to be a servant of the Lord, through teaching, listening, serving meals, working on the school grounds. Pray that even when I am worn out I will still have the desire to serve the Lord, not myself.

What are some current needs that you have and what can we do to help meet those needs?  Right now I do not know how to answer this question. I am planning on being in the states for six weeks this summer and I am working on putting a schedule together. I know with EBM closing this past year, I have a lot of reporting to do with my supporting churches and friends.


Meet Some of Our Other FBM Missionaries:

• Kathy Miller
• Tim & Janice Phillips (part 1)
• Tim & Janice Phillips (part 2)
• Ken & Sarah Beckley
• Cindy Faile  

This Post Sponsored by:

The Beatitudes: Do you Have Mixed Motives? (by Stephen Simpson)

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (v. 8)

Blessed is the man whose motives are pure. They are clean, focused, and undefiled.  Consider the ESV Study Bible notes on another passage of scripture (Ps. 24:4)  “The pure heart is the one cleansed of all unworthy motives toward other people.”

Mixed motives rob one’s heart of purity. A pure heart is a focused heart. It is a heart with a singular focus on God. It is not focused on pleasing God and on pleasing self.  It is focused solely on pleasing God.

Consider the work of the Holy Spirit in choosing the exact position of this Beatitude. Oh, how many people there are that show mercy out of an impure heart. They consider the poor for selfish reasons. They show mercy so that it will improve their reputation or their status in the church. Often, we view politicians like this, accusing them of doing anything noble for mere ‘political reasons.’ But, maybe we need to spend more time examining our own attitudes and motivations. Why should we show mercy? For the tax deduction? For the warm fuzzy feeling that you get? Let us examine our own heart and motives.

Notice that those who are pure in heart will see God. All of us will see God some day. For some, seeing God will not be a pleasant experience. When they stand before Almighty God and see Him face to face, they will be ashamed and guilty. However, those with a pure heart are blessed because they will see God. They will see Him and treasure Him.  He will reward them for the purity of their hearts. A pure heart is heart with a singular focus that is bent towards pleasing God.

Consider the words of the Psalmist:

“Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart” (Psalm 24:3-4)

How can we have a pure heart? 

"How can a young man keep his way pure?  By guarding it according to your word."  (Psalm 119:9)

Be a person with a pure heart. Have a focused and singular motivation that is bent towards honoring and pleasing God.

Other Posts in this series:

1. The Secret to True Happiness
2. Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
3. How Poor Is Your Spirit?
4. What Makes You Mourn?
5. How Meek Are You?
6. Are You Satisfied?
7. Blessed Are the Merciful
8. Do You Have Mixed Motives?
9. Be a Peacemaker - Preach the Gospel
10. Happy are Those Who Suffer

2012 Mission Conference Recap & Reflections (by Stephen Simpson)

(Diane & Chris Marine)

We recently concluded our annual Mission Conference.   Here are some quotes and highlights from the weekend.

• Chaplain John Murdoch, GARBC Chaplaincy Ministries
• "If God calls your kids to serve him, don't get in the way!"
• "When Satan brings up your past - bring up his future." - Chaplain John Murdoch
• "God hasn't asked us to be successful.  He has asked us to be faithful."
     
• Jim Blizzard, Local Director, Child Evangelism Fellowship
• There are 144,000 children under the age of 18 in Polk County.
• 81% of these children have no church affiliation
• The crime rate in Winter Haven is WAY above both the national and state averages
• 85% of those who come to Christ do so between ages 4-14. 
• "A child of 5 if properly instructed, can as readily believe and be regenerated as anyone." - Charles Spurgeon
     
• Conference Audio
• "Training Up Timothys" - by Dr. Jim Jeffery, President, Baptist Bible College & Seminary
• Missionary Report - by Chris Marine, West Africa Field Administer for FBM
• Missionary Q & A - Here are some of the questions our missionaries answered during the Q & A session.
• What Scripture has most impacted your life?
• What do you enjoy most about your ministry?
• What is the biggest discouragement that you face daily in the ministry?
• How did God move you from pastoring a church to your current ministries?
• Share a brief story where you have seen the Gospel change a life.

Other Posts from the 2012 Mission Conference:

• 2012 Mission Conference Recap & Reflections (by Stephen Simpson)
• 2012 Mission Conference Report (by Jonita Barram)
• 2012 Mission Conference - Chaplain John Murdoch
• 2012 Mission Conference - Jim Blizzard & CEF

What Would You Do If You Were Debt Free? (by Stephen Simpson)

Debt is a cruel master.  It places restrictions on us.  It hinders us.  It beats us down.  It weighs heavily on our minds.  It is a terrible burden that most, if not all, of us bear.

Take a second and imagine that you are completely debt free.  No mortgage.  No car payments.  No student loans.  No credit card debt.  No debt.  What would you do if you were debt free?

Here are ten things you could do if you were debt free.

1. Anonymously mail gas or grocery store gift cards to needy families each month.
2. Take your old mortgage payment and pay someone else's mortgage payment for a month to help them get ahead of their bills.
3. Leave a $100 tip for a waitress who has had a hard day.
4. Start an endowment for your favorite ministry.
5. Tithe 20% or 30% or even more to your local church.
6. Send a missionary a note thanking them for serving the Lord and include a check for $1000.
7. Sell your house anytime you want without worrying about being upside down in your mortgage.
8. Make a car payment and a mortgage payment to your savings account each month.
9. Use your old mortgage payment and completely cover the costs of our annual community Thanksgiving Day dinner.
10. Give your largest ever April Faith Day offering.

Obviously, you may be able to do some of these things while still being in debt.  But, you will enjoy these things much more once the great debt-dragon has been slayed.  

FBC strongly encourages debt free living.  We do this primarily through two ways.

1. Teaching - We host Financial Peace University classes.  This class has helped revolutionize the finances of many families within our church.  We highly recommend it.  We even provide occasional scholarships to help send people through the class.  
2. Example - We, as a church, are debt free.  When we build, we do not borrow money.  Think about how many ministries of FBC would suffer if our church were under the bondage of debt.

So, take a minute and daydream.  What would you do if you were completely debt free?  

Related Post:

• How Our Family Gained Financial Peace (by JR Foster)