Burnt Cabin Summary
by Barrett Vanlandingham (July 27, 2006)

Well, another camp session has come and gone. But the seeds that were sown are already growing. God blessed our week with nine baptisms: Tuesday - Zane Cook and Kevin Cook of Fort Gibson... Wednesday - Taylor Potts and Kayla Potts of Charleston, Arkansas, and Nick Curry and Ashley Tevebaugh of Gore ... Thursday - Sara Swayze and Mercedes Boling of Gore... Saturday - Amy Kehr of Sand Springs. After camp was over, Bubba Dickens and Nathan Baker of Gore were baptized Sunday morning at Lake Road Church of Christ; and at the South Walker Church of Christ in OKC, Amber Rey (aka Elmo) and her older sister Alex were baptized Sunday morning. Reaching for Higher Ground was our theme this year. Our theme song was as follows:

Reaching for Higher Ground
(verse 1) A broken world... has nothing to offer me.
Even thought I’ve tried... to find happiness down here. (repeat verse)
(chorus) So Lord, I’m reaching... for higher ground.
Lord, I’m reaching... for higher ground.
Where the streets are made of gold... Where it’s never too hot nor cold.
Lord, I’m reaching for higher ground.
(verse 2) The friends I have... they mean the world to me.
But the Lord, my God... gives me hope for eternity. (repeat verse)
(chorus) So Lord, I’m reaching... for higher ground.
Lord, I’m reaching... for higher ground.
Where we’ll see our Father’s face... Where we’ll live in our Savior’s grace.
Lord, I’m reaching... for higher ground.
Lord, I’m reaching... for higher ground.

Listen to this song at
www.ftgchurchofchrist.com
(follow the Burnt Cabin link)

2006 Burnt Cabin Awards
Director’s Award
Rachel Elliott / Josh Huggins
Fort Gibson

Courtney Keese
Servant Heart Award
Kelsey Hackworth - Moore

Model Jr Girl
Paige Parker - Fort Gibson

Model Intermediate Girl
Ashley Tevebaugh - Gore

Model Sr Girl
Teena Henry - Morris

Model Jr. Boy
Tevin Taylor - OKC

Model Intermediate Boy
Trey Lashley - Fort Gibson

Model Sr Boy
Kyle Lashley - Fort Gibson

Best Jr Girl Bible Student
Emily Farris - Colcord

Best Intermediate Girl Bible Student
Tillisha Gray - Tahlequah

Best Sr Girl Bible Student
Tara Richey - Fort Gibson

Best Jr Boy Bible Student
Todd Waters - Fort Gibson

Best Intermediate Boy Bible Student
Nick Murray - Gore

Best Sr Boy Bible Student
Luke Hollen - Sand Springs

Royalty
(voted on by campers)
Queen - Amanda Frost - Fort Gibson
King - Tyler Cook - Fort Gibson
Princess - Keely Richey - Fort Gibson
Prince - Kacy Cook - Fort Gibson
Duchess - Chelsey Mead - Fort Gibson
Duke - Jordan Yaws - Oregon

Canteen Time at Mini Camp
July 13, 2006
by Barrett Vanlandingham

As I watched the mini-campers (ages 7-10) line up for a snack at canteen, and for meals at the mess hall last week, I couldn’t help but think of this passage from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5:6)...
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."
How beautiful it was to see all of those little faces living out the same scenes that we read about in the above passage and also in chapters 14 and 15 (the feeding of the 4000 and 5000).
The children at camp may have thought they were only in line for a much deserved snack; but in reality God was using good fun, good fellowship, and good memories to fit into an overall plan to fill their hunger and thirst for righteousness. May we as mature Christians always be prepared to "serve up" spiritual meals and snacks when opportunities arise. Barrett

Summer Passing Quickly
by Barrett Vanlandingham
July 6, 2006

Hola Everyone! That’s "Hello" in Spanish. All 24 of us had a great time on the eight day Monterrey, Mexico trip June 24-July1. With God’s help, we accomplished a good bit at three different sites where we helped construct church buildings for small congregations that already have preachers. We met a lot of really nice people from the local churches like 68-year old Lupe’, who worked with us everyday; and then there was 15-year old Abraham and 11 year old Favian, who were both favorites of the kids. We were happy to come back home, and very happy to see the American flag waving us back in at the border. I will leave details of the trip to our Missions Deacon Glen Elliott, who will give a report this coming Sunday night.
This week (July 5-8), Lisa and I are "mini-camping" at Burnt Cabin (about 90 kids ages 7-10) along with Jenna Arnett, Paula Fontenot, Gean Hackworth, and many other staffers from other towns. The camp ends Saturday after a lunch banquet and awards assembly that parents who sign upon the first day are invited to be a part.
I will spend July 9-14 as close to the office as possible finishing up getting ready for Fort Gibson’s week of Burnt Cabin. And then a week after that it’s off to Saint Louis for a youth rally and Six Flags. I will give a full report on those events after they happen.
I would like to let each of you know how much I appreciated your support of the youth ministry here in Fort Gibson. I thoroughly enjoy every ministry opportunity inside and outside of the church that I am fortunate enough to be a part. Thank you.
Kenny Lashley and I wrote a song on the way back from Mexico that tells the story of our group’s dirt leveling, block laying, cement work, and relationships that made the trip even more special. Maybe we can sing it for you sometime.
Monterrey
The boards and the cords, we used on the floor, helped our amigos worship the Lord.
The dirt we tossed, so no souls will be lost; Jesus’ blood will cover the cost.
Cement was poured; the blocks were laid, so beautiful music could be made.
The forms torn down; the walls went up, as God’s gentle breeze would fill our cup.
The old gentle man, with blood, sweat, & tears, we worked side by side, with children & cheers.
Like manna from heaven that fell from above, they prepared food with hands that were so full of love.
[Chorus] Monterrey, Monterrey. We see Jesus, in Monterrey. (2X)

Marked for Life!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
June 22, 2006

It was a "Baaaaad Monday", at least if you were a goat on the Branscum farm this week. It was time to tattoo the "kids" (AKA baby goats, just to avoid confusion and rumors of scandal; just "kidding"). Anyway, each goat underwent an ear-pinching and ink-marking process that left an identifiable green number on the inside of its ear that helps prove origin.
Christian "kids" as well as all of us older "goats" are also marked for life in an inward way that helps us prove our origin. Acts 2:37 tells us that the early Christians were "cut to the heart" upon hearing the story of Jesus and the lengths He went to give us hope of salvation. We’re told in the very next verse of an incredible gift that God gives to those who are baptized believers. It’s the gift of the Holy Spirit. It’s a gift that marks us for life, making us different than we were (1 Peter 2:9). It’s a gift that labels us in a way that helps others recognize us as God’s chosen people.
We are marked with characteristics that belong to God... AKA The Fruit of the Spirit: love joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22). Peter reminds us that we should possess Christian virtues in increasing measure to prevent us from becoming unproductive in our knowledge (2 Peter 1:5-8).
Even though Christian virtues are internal markings of a Christian, Matthew records Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount saying that the qualities that make Christians special cannot stay hidden inside. "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16).
In the parable of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25:31-46, the goats are pictured on judgement day as the unsaved on Jesus’ left. The reason they are unsaved is because either they were not marked with Christian virtues, or possibly they were marked, but chose to not allow God’s Spirit to transform them into obedient sheep with a heart for serving others, and thereby serve Christ (v. 45).
Let us all remember that even though we were created in God’s image, we are nothing but hopeless goats unless we earmark our lives for commitment to following our loving Shepherd who we will most certainly bow before someday... marked or unmarked.

Frauds, Fakes, & Fumes
by Barrett Vanlandingham (June 8, 2006)

A gas pump in Doylestown, Pennsylvania recently sold fuel for 32.9 cents a gallon, at least until an upstanding citizen noticed the decimal point was in the wrong spot. Meanwhile, a “miracle” pill you’re supposed to put into your gas tank to increase your gas mileage by 15 to 35 percent is reportedly turning out to be a fraud. No one could have seen that one coming! Ha.
Let’s face it. We all like a good deal. But most things that appear to be too good to be true really are just that. Cons who are out to make a quick dime are nothing new. Scripture says that God detests those who are deceptive. Psalm 5:6 speaks of them as “bloodthirsty and deceitful men the LORD abhors.”
It happens in religion, too. Paul describes fast-talking “super-apostles” in 2 Corinthians 11 who offer a different spirit and a different gospel than the one from Christ. Galatians 1:8 tells us those who twist the scriptures are in for serious consequences, even if it’s an angel.
As for the first story of the decimal in the wrong place? That’s a great reminder of just how important such a small detail can make; and therefore, we as Christians should make sure our example teaches the right lesson (refer to James 3:1), and that we make every effort to avoid the very appearance of evil (refer to 1 Thessalonians 5:22). And yes, that includes “secret” sins (refer to Philippians 4:7-9) that we may only think about, but yet may prevent the God of peace from being with us.
And what would a bulletin article about frauds, fakes, and fumes be without some mention of the rare date of 06-06-06 that happened this week? Those who are superstitious worried about it all day… while devil worshippers held a special mass in Hollywood. As it turns out, even that date had to be twisted a little to make the media scare happen. After all, wasn’t it really 06-06-2006? Regardless of the date, it was just another beautiful day and opportunity that God blessed us with to bring glory, praise, and honor to our Creator.
Isn’t it such a comfort to know that no matter what amount of deceptive practices there are out there in the world and in religion, we serve a God who is mighty, powerful, loving, merciful, and totally real… like none other.

Going with the Flow
by Barrett Vanlandingham (May 11, 2006)

On the way to the office Wednesday morning, I couldn’t help but notice the streams of water flowing alongside the road; and since I had just taught a roomful of middle and high schoolers at Detour Zone Tuesday on the topic of how Christians should look for spiritual twists to everyday occurrences, this one was too good to pass up.
What kind of feeling do you get when you see floodwaters brimming out of their banks, pouring through fields, neighborhoods, and other places they shouldn’t be? Certainly, the words "unsettled" and "destructive" come to my mind. Water is simply not in its most productive state when rushing ripples roll aimlessly without banks, borders, or purpose.
At the Feast of the Tabernacles in John 7:37b-38, Jesus says, "If a man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."
This image does not describe an out of control situation on either end. First off, Jesus has something to offer us, "living water." Secondly, if we drink-in His will for us, Jesus says we will then have spiritual qualities to demonstrate and to offer others. There has to be a definite and constant standard that we as Christians can depend on for direction to heaven.
What would have happened to the tree in Psalm 1:3 if the stream would have changed course and left the tree without water? No growth.
As Christians, we know where to find living water. It pours out of God’s Word into our souls, and can fill us to overflowing. But we then have a responsibility to channel that overflow to those who need Jesus.
Jesus says,"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." (Matt. 5:6) Paul told the Corinthians that we are fellow workers with God in that process. It is our charge to plant and water (1 Cor. 3:7-9). God will make things grow.
So, while we meander through life, let us remember to fortify our banks by applying God’s Word to our lives. This will keep our stream flowing in the right direction, and show others the way. (1 Cor. 9:27, Deut. 12:8-9, Prov. 10:17)

Lloyd Elkins knows how to plant & water. He presented our secretary and birthday girl Janet Strain with a vase full of his beautiful Amaryllis "Red Lion" flowers.
See them at the office, Lloyd’s house, or www.ftgchurchofchrist.com

Satan's Many Disguises
(A Look Beyond the Cultural Glitz)
by Barrett Vanlandingham (April 26, 2006)

Would you believe that in the midst of a dirt and concrete project in my backyard, the idea for this week's bulletin article poured and leveled into my thoughts. Dale Trout (Lisa Walkingstick's father) and his crew were about halfway finished with what would eventually be an extension to my back porch, when it dawned on me that somewhere down the line I was going to have to make a decision on whether to cut down two trees. You see, even though the trees are providing shade, the roots are a threat to the concrete (which cost more than the trees) and possibly to the foundation of my house.
Now, the spiritual application. God is so good to us, and offers us so much. But you don't have to look very far to find examples of Christian brothers and sisters surrendering to satan's tricks (sometimes unknowingly)... all in the name of comfortably fitting-in to cultural norms, or in some cases, satisfying selfish ambitions. [James 3:16; Galatians 5:19-21; Philippians 2:3]
Satan is a schemer. He's very skilled at appealing to our ego, our senses, and our desire for us or our children to "fit-in." At the same time, he slowly tightens his satanic noose around our neck until it's too late for us to escape without serious consequences to ourselves, others, or to those we love.
Here's the admonition. Enjoy God's blessings; but realize that just as God can turn negatives into positives (as in the case of Joseph), satan can use blessings to distract us from his sneak attacks just like roots can crack and damage concrete which is much less valuable than our souls for which Jesus paid the ultimate price. [1 Corinthians 10:12 “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!”]
The only culture we need to spend time fitting in to is the heavenly culture. After all, we are already citizens of heaven. [Philippians 3:20] We have a right, a privilege, and a responsibility to act like it. So, when this earth ceases to exist, along with the smoke and mirrors of pop culture's mesmerizing (yet troubling) images, rhythms, intriguing lights, and the deadly lure of chemical dependence... and the casinos' empty promises of fulfillment, the devil's bottomless bag of tricks that keeps people looking in the wrong direction for love, acceptance, happiness, and popularity... our home in heaven will be standing strong for an eternity long after those other things that we thought were so important are destroyed. Thus the verse to Amazing Grace: we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we first begun. Have a great week living for Him!

Another “Thumbs Up” for our Youth
(and some very supportive parents)
By Barrett Vanlandingham (April 13, 2006)

When my family first moved here, I could not have imagined some of the very encouraging things I would be privileged to witness.
One example happened this past week during Monday Night for the Master… and involved an elderly lady named Cleo who is a resident at the local nursing home.
Here’s the background: Cleo had been in a coma… unable to communicate at all when a nurse heard her humming the tune Amazing Grace. Cleo’s daughter (who is not a member of the church) flew in from out of state, and stopped off at the church building to ask if we had any song on tape that her mother could listen to. Janet sent her on her way with a tape of a “Ladies’ Day” girls’ quintet from April 20, 2002: Jenna Arnett, Amber Burright, Amanda Coombes, the late Courtney Keese, and Kara Kelly. What a ministry their voices turned out to be!
Janet then promised Cleo’s daughter that we would have a group of young people sing to Cleo Monday night. About 20 of us went . We read scripture from Psalm 119:97-103… sang several songs including Amazing Grace, and then closed with a prayer. Cleo couldn’t say much, but an occasional one word answer, and her facial expressions said it all. In the end, the kids were blessed just as much as Cleo.
The kids also spent quality time that night with Elizabeth Arthur, Thelma Jones, Mary Hobbs, and Pauline Hilburn. Each of these ladies are such a joy!

And there’s more to smile about…

Our 6th-12th grade boys did an excellent job leading worship during our Wednesday night devotional. Cole Berkenbile, Levi Walker, Zane Cook, Kyle Lashley, Trey Lashley, and Josh Huggins were all eager, and did not even hesitate to serve God in this way this week. Thanks guys.
A sign-up sheet stays on the youth bulletin board in the lobby for those youth who are willing to lead. Families, please pray for your children and remind them to practice on their own and to pray about their leadership skills, and their leadership in daily life shown by their example.
With all of our upcoming youth events, summertime is an excellent time for our young ones to work on their leadership and evangelism skills. Parents and grandparents, please remember to encourage and give LOTS of positive reinforcement in this area, and look for opportunities for them to put these skills to use.
Boys and girls (and the rest of us) need to continually work on the admonition in 1 Peter 3:15.
“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

One Final Note (about taking notes)…

The 4th grade girls and boys are also doing a great job of taking notes during Dan’s sermons, and then turning them in during Bible class: (Jessica Bradley, Amanda Cothrum, Wesley Jones, Kevin Koel, Audrey Ross, Nathan Tiger, Gracie Vanlandingham, and Todd Waters). A BIG THANKS to their teacher, Dian Tibbles, for helping these young children build a strong spiritual foundation that will last.

Also Congratulations to…
8th Grader Katie Coombes!

Katie is the first in the 7th and 8th grade class to memorize all 21 Bible categories on our list:
O.T. Books
O.T. Divisions
N.T. Books
N.T. Divisions
N.T.Writers
Apostles
Two Greatest Commands
Days of Creation
Ten Plagues
Ten Commandments
Twelve Songs of Jacob
Twelve tribes of Israel
Psalm 23
The Lord’s Prayer
Fruits of the Spirit
Beatitudes
Christian Armor
Plan of Salvation
Christian Virtues
Acts of Worship
The Great Commission

Training Church Leaders for Tomorrow
By Barrett Vanlandingham (April 6, 2006)

Crying… knees knocking… hands shaking… voice trembling. I’ve seen it all during our Wednesday night leadership training time. Let me take a moment to say how proud I am of our 3rd-5th grade boys who take part in leading worship once a month on Wednesday nights.
It is so encouraging to see these young boys growing up in the Lord, and learning to serve Him in this way.
Blake Burrows, Jeremy Koel, Kevin Koel, and Todd Waters did an excellent job with the songs, Bible reading and prayer this week.
Next Wednesday night, the 6th-12th grade boys will lead our devotional time.
A sign-up sheet stays on the youth bulletin board in the lobby, so that our boys can go ahead and sign-up as far in advance as they would like. Please encourage our 3rd-12th grade boys to sign-up. They also need to practice their songs and Bible readings several times outloud at home. If they are leading a prayer, they need to go ahead and make a list of things they want to pray for. Preparation and prayer in advance is the key for them to feel more confident to stand in the pulpit.

Student & Teacher Workshop Pics at www.xanga.com/bdawg2006

Youth Calendar at www.youthcalendar.blogspot.com

Bible Knowledge & Creativity Inspired

(March 30, 2006)

No riots were incited… however, those inspired at the big event here at the Fort Gibson Church of Christ last weekend were overheard plotting to overhaul their teacher’s supply workrooms provided the burn ban stays in effect (smile). Seriously though, it was a wonderful day at the Northeastern Oklahoma Student & Teacher Workshop hosted by our congregation.

Bible Bowlers… We are proud of you. 60 kids from surrounding towns and here participated in Bible Bowl. Fort Gibson entered three teams in this event which tested knowledge on the books of Joshua, Judges, and Ruth.

BIG THANKS to our own Wade Cothrum for his dedication to the kids, to the event, and to the Lord in writing 200 study questions to help the participants prepare. Great Job!!

Teams included: Robby Branscum, Mycah Higley, Zak Kelley, and Ashton Vanlandingham in the Sr. Division coached by Chris and Rhonda Branscum.

The Jr. Division had two teams coached by Marie Branscum and Brittany Fisher: Tyler Branscum, Hunter Hackworth, Gracie Vanlandingham, and Kara Wallace; also, Blake Burrows, Tanner Enger, Audrey Ross, and Todd Waters.

Congregations that participated in Bible Bowl included Broken Arrow, Tahlequah, Carbondale in West Tulsa, Claremore, Stilwell, Fort Gibson, and Haskell.
These churches plus 18th & Denison in Muskogee, Colcord, and Jay also participated in the student and teacher workshops which included “how to” classes on visual aids, puppets, drama, class preparation, and discipline issues.
Plans have already begun for next year’s event which will be hosted by the South College Church of Christ in Tahlequah. One improvement includes moving the Bible Bowl to Friday night to make room for more workshops on Saturday. Preaching, teaching, and songleading, as well as inspiring classes on growing Godly women are also being looked at as possible classes for next year.
Be sure to send thank you notes to Tyrel Hatfield and the South College Church of Christ in Tahlequah for helping us significantly with the planning and promotion of this event. It is likely that next year’s planning will be taken care of by a yet-to-be-formed board that will consist of a broad spectrum of people from various congregations in hopes that even more interest will be generated. A date has not been set, but will likely be near the same time frame. Please pray that God will use the Northeastern Oklahoma Student & Teacher Workshop to motivate, inspire, and teach all ages of God’s children for years to come.

Spring youth activities are movin' full speed ahead!
(updated March 13)



Big thanks to the elders for approving this limo ride to Spring Sing at Oklahoma Christian. You guys are great! Just kidding! (about the limo ride)

Having a little lunch after the youth forum on Saturday at Oklahoma Christian University, the day after the Spring Sing performances.


Adam Fleming and me after his club performed in Spring Sing.

This is a shot of OC's freshman class performing during Spring Sing.
It was a busy weekend. The next day we went to Teen Connections in Henryetta. It was great.
It was the end of a long weekend, but there's always time for one more pic!

Hi Everybody, Spring Sing at Oklahoma Christian was a blast. All five of the girls who went stayed the night in Jenna's dorm room (well, three did, and then the other two stayed in another girl's room). The next morning we ate breakfast

at Vice-President deSteiguer's house. Mmm Mmm good! Anyway, after the trip to Oklahoma City, we traveled to Henryetta on Sunday afternoon for Teen Connections. It was packed... great singing... great food (alfredo fettucine, bread sticks, salad, and brownie fudge sundaes... YUM YUM). Not exactly on my list of health foods, but it was great nonetheless.

Middle School Fun-Nite
A middle school fun-nite on Thursday, March 23 at Tulsa’s Incredible Pizza Company will serve as a good and low-cost alternative to the school dance. Check the calendar inside this bulletin for details.

The Northeastern Oklahoma Student & Teacher Workshop
Hope to see everyone March 25th for the Student and Teacher Workshop hosted by Fort Gibson. We could still use several volunteers to help with scorekeeping and monitoring Bible Bowl, help clean up after lunch, and put chairs back into place. Adult baby sitters are also needed... and adults to help Charlie Dortch monitor the inflatable games that will be outside.
Also PARENTS, be sure to mark your calendars for Sunday night, March 26. We will go over the spring and summer youth calendar.

Grace Rally

Grace Rally (just for girls 6th-12th grades) on May 13. Vans leave at 7:30am. Back by 9pm. Cost is $5 plus food for one meal. Great speakers! Also... drama group "take 2" will perform. This will be a great event, so BE THERE!

Hello Everyone! I hope you are having a wonderful day. One of my new year's resolutions is to develop a better relationship with God through prayer and personal Bible study. Another new year's resolution is be a better husband and dad; that also means being a better spiritual leader in the home. My third new year's resolution is to influence my youth group to grow spiritually; and my fourth is to drop about 40 pounds by summer! Good luck on yours, and may God bless you as you glorify Him in everything. Barrett

New Year's Eve (December 31, 2005) Barrett goes down in defeat in a game of Twister. Big surprise there!

Teen Connections
Sunday night February 12, 5pm
Barrett Vanlandingham

It’s going to be a great weekend in Fort Gibson for a couple of reasons: First, we here in Fort Gibson are hosting the areawide Teen Connections this coming Sunday evening!
Second, our own David Walker will be speaking. I asked David to make his topic timely considering Valentine’s Day is only two days after. So, be sure to be here that night to find out what David has to say.
Also, a big thanks to Kristy Coombes, Doyle Kelley, and Louie Mosteller for organizing the menu and making it happen: hamburgers, pop, chips, and desserts from Charlie’s Chicken.
Mix all of that together with a lot of great singing from all the area congregations , and we’ve got ourselves a Mmmm Mmmm Good kind of an evening. This is the 6th Teen Connections of this season, with only two left after ours: Henryetta-March 5, & Chandler Road-April 9.

Spring Sing at Oklahoma Christian
This week, I purchased 20 tickets to the Friday 8pm, March 3 Spring Sing performance at OC. 15 of these tickets are still available at a cost of $12 each. This trip is for middle & high school students who would consider going to a Christian college. The vans leave 4pm Mar 3. Bring money for 3 meals. Lisa & I will spend Saturday, Mar 4 giving the kids a tour of our alma mater & talking with them about Christian Education.

The Northeastern Oklahoma Student and Teacher Workshop
Have you ever thought about teaching, or being a helper? Then, mark March 25 on your calendar & get ready for some quality training that will prepare you.
We are very excited to have Jane Buntley (of Duncan-Chisholm Trail church of Christ) and her daughter Tami Fennel (of Edmond-Memorial Road church of Christ) to conduct the Teacher’s workshop for those who are interested in teaching or helping in grades pre-school through 3rd. These two ladies have been teaching workshops for many years all across the nation. www.texhoma.net/~dbuntley
Topics will include: “Help I Need An Idea”... Bulletin Board Ideas... “Teaching Can Be Fun”... and Make It & Take It (you actually get to take stuff home).
We are also thrilled to have Bryan Jarvis (Family Minister at the Southern Oaks church of Christ in Chickasha) on the itinerary. He has very graciously agreed to not only be our keynote speaker on the topic of Joshua, Judges, and Ruth... but Bryan will also conduct a workshop for those interested in teaching or helping in 4th-12th grades. Bryan will be talking with teachers on several topics such as recruiting, training and motivating teachers, in addition to talking about issues that teachers have to address in class. Please make plans to attend. It will be worth your time. Thanks, Barrett

If we can't have it... Let's be happy & sing about it
by Barrett Vanlandingham (January 26, 2006)

If we can’t have it...
Let’s be happy & sing about it
by Barrett Vanlandingham

Water is a word that we can read about today.
Water is a drink that can quench our thirst away.
But Jesus said, “I’m the living water, come to me my friends.” For whosoever drinks of me will never thirst again.

chorus: Give me water (I thirst), let me drink (I thirst).
From the life-giving stream, let me drink.
Give me water (I thirst), let me drink (I thirst).
Give me that everlasting water of life.

Water flows like life itself, it’s fast and sometimes slow, &
Just about the time you think there’s nothing left to know,
the current that was flowing north is headed southward bound; And if your feet aren’t planted firm, then you will surely drown.

(chorus)

Water has a place in hist’ry, just one look you’ll see.
If Noah were alive today, he’d say live patiently.
When God told him to be prepared, cause something’s on the way. He asked no questions, lived for Him, and floated on away.

(chorus)

...and pray about it
When the youth group goes out to pray with people on Monday nights as we do when weather permits, one of our favorite passages to read after we take their prayer requests is James 5:13-18. 13. Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise.
This passage goes on to remind us the importance of prayer for the sake of our physical and spiritual health, and that the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
17. Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18. Again he prayed and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
Yes, it is still important for us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). God has not changed His mind about this. It’s no accident that just a couple of verses later, (v19) Paul says, “Do not put out the Spirit’s fire.” This must mean it’s actually possible to do so.
Mark 6:4-6 speaks to this very thing. Even Jesus could not do any miracles in His hometown of Nazareth because of their lack of faith. Are we limiting God?
Let us all offer prayers in faith right now that God would bless us with rain... and that God would bless us with good health, both physical and spiritual... and that our children and grandchildren will be kept safe and make Godly choices... and that our country will look to God for wisdom and guidance... and that our church family will be Spirit-led... and that God provide a way for us to work effectively for Him, and teach us to love and grow in unity.

Rejoice!
by Barrett Vanlandingham (January 12, 2006)

Hallelujah! There are well over 300 references to the words joy and rejoice in the Bible. And why wouldn’t there be? Joy is such a gift for those who walk with God, and even for angels who are already in the presence of God. Luke 15 tells three parables that end in rejoicing when someone turns from the ways of the world, and instead chooses to walk with God... REPENTANCE. It’s a lifestyle that absolutely matters, and brings joy on earth and in heaven. (Luke 15:7, 10, 31)
Even when we feel that no one is watching and no one cares what kind of good choices we make... rejoicing takes places somewhere. When we make Godly choices, make no mistake about it, there is joy and rejoicing in heaven, and in the presence of the angels.
You know that verse in the song “How Great Thou Art” that says, “When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation”? It’s talking about a kind of standing ovation... greater than any sports hero could receive. That’s the picture the songwriter is painting for us to illustrate the joy in our hearts when Christ comes to receive home those who are found to be faithful. Now imagine that YOU are receiving a standing ovation from throngs of angels as far as the eye can see, clapping, shouting, and praising God, and imagine God smiling and bursting at the seams with pride that YOU overcame a temptation, or that YOU made a good choice...one that the world and satan’s army would despise you for. Now, imagine God looking at Jesus and saying, “ It’s time, let’s go bring’em home.”
What a glorious day that will be! Let’s all make plans to rejoice on that day... the day when we, along with all the generations of great men and women of faith will also be called to claim their space in one of our Heavenly Father’s rooms that Jesus has gone to prepare for us.
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (Hebrews 12:2-3)
Let us all rejoice that Jesus burst from the tomb, giving us reason to have hope, reason to celebrate life as a Christian, and reason to stay faithful to Him.

Something New
The Northeastern Oklahoma Student & Teacher Workshop (December 15, 2005)
by Barrett Vanlandingham

Fort Gibson Church of Christ Youth will be hosting the first annual "Northeastern Oklahoma Student & Teacher Workshop" on Saturday, March 25, 2006. A BIG thanks to the elders and youth deacons for allowing this event to take place here; and thanks to Tyrel Hatfield (Tahlequah’s youth minister) for creating the above catchy logo for the event. If you can volunteer to help with lunch, chaperon games, or help with one of the workshops on drama, puppets, bulletin boards, or help with Bible Bowl, please let me know or put your name on the sign-up list on the lobby bulletin board.
In other news... A BIG THANKS to all the K-12 students who participated in the Adopt a Widow Banquet last Friday. It was exciting to see such a wide range of ages and life situations all coming together for a very special evening together. Kids helped cook the food; they also provided the entertainment and decorations.
The elders and ministers were also invited as special guests.... thanks so much! I really can’t think of the last time I showed up at a church-related event and had a 10-year old ask me what I wanted to drink, and then ask if I wanted sweet or unsweet. Kids even filled everyone’s plates! Dan found out what happens to those who won’t eat liver (which by the way was not on the menu). You’ll have to ask him about that.... but let’s just say I will never look at marshmellos the same ever again!

Building a Firm Foundation
by Barrett Vanlandingham (December 1, 2005)
Building a firm foundation means digging beneath the surface... getting rid of obstructions... and pouring something solid in its place for someone to stand or build on.
This week, Roger Coombes and Jim Martin are doing exactly that under the church sign. For the past year, it’s often been a mud bog of a mess for those who have attempted to use a ladder to change the letters on the sign. But a new concrete pad should make a positive difference in getting a message out!
2 Timothy 2:19 says, "Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription, ‘The Lord knows those who are his,’ and ‘Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.’ " Let’s commit to getting rid of obstacles in our lives that prevent us from standing on The Firm Foundation.

y.e.s. ~ youth expressing spirituality (November 27, 2005)
"leadership in action"
The final vote on the t-shirt design contest is Sunday, November 27 in the fellowship room. The winner will be announced in the next church bulletin. Then I will take sizes and money ($5) for shirts if you want one.

The winning design will be placed on the new y.e.s. t-shirt which will be handed out at the New Year’s Eve party for grades 6-12 for those who have paid $5 and placed their order. The 3rd-5th graders will be given theirs on Sunday morning January 1 in the auditoium after class (for those who’ve ordered and paid $5).

Remember, y.e.s. participants who have completed at least half of what they signed up for by the end of the year will get a $5 refund along with their y.e.s. t-shirt.
Parents and youth event hosts: remind kids to fill-out their y.e.s. tickets and have them signed by adult witness, and place in the box at the youth booth each time they’ve completed a project; otherwise we will have no way of keeping track of progress. All the kids are doing so well with the new y.e.s. leadership in action program. Keep up the great work and remember to give God all of the glory for your efforts. Thanks, Barrett

Autumn Colors
The World is God’s Canvass
by Barrett Vanlandingham (November 3, 2005)

When the autumn season brings about a change in scenery, we get to experience a true gift from God. The beautiful orange, red, yellow, green, and brown leaves are magnificent. God made trees on the third day of creation in such a way that they would bless us with this beauty each year at a time when even the air has a pleasant feel. The leaves then fall to the ground, taking their place beneath our feet, reminding us that God loves you and me more than anything else He created.
God also made each one of us with special qualities (1 Pet. 4:10; 1 Cor. 7:7), just like the leaves; but He went even farther with us; we’re made in His image (Gen. 1:26). And when we submit fully to His will (Gal. 3:26), we have colorful fruit that God’s Spirit shows through us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22). When we take on these kinds of Godly qualities in increasing measure, our knowledge of Jesus can be used more fully (2 Pet. 1:8).
In Zechariah 7, it was late November (the Jewish calendar calls it Kislev), 518 years before Jesus was born, and things were going pretty well for the people of Bethel (a city situated about half-way between the Great Sea and the Salt Sea). The people asked Zechariah the prophet whether they should continue to mourn and fast as they had for many years. God answered them through Zechariah who questioned whether their fasting, mourning, and feasting had really been for God, or self? He told the people to show mercy and compassion, and to not think evil of each other. They refused. God became angry and punished them.
So what does all of that have to do with autumn colors? The people of Bethel had been going through the motions just like leaves that bud, grow, change colors, and then fall. They were doing things that made them feel good and look good; but God saw through their colors and demanded that they take their dedication to Him to a much higher level by putting the good of others before themselves. God holds us to the same high and colorful standards today. Let us all pray that God finds us today and on judgment day holding true to His colors and not our own.

How Does Inspiration Work?
by Barrett Vanlandingham (October 20, 2005)
Sometimes I wonder whether the writers of the 66 books of the Bible ever thought about giving us a little more information about how inspiriation works when it comes to how we got the Bible, and why the writers chose certain words instead of others. 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that "All scripture is given by inspiration of God"-KJV or "God-breathed"-NIV.
In the New Testament, we’re told that the Holy Spirit reminded the writers of Jesus’ teachings (John 14:25-26);
and that the Holy Spirit guided the writers with thoughts from God (John 16:12-13); and that "men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit"-NIV or " moved by the Holy Ghost."-KJV (2 Peter 1:21).
God must have controlled the writing process, otherwise we could not be held accountable for the ideas of mere men; but we can be reasonably assured that God did not simply dictate word for word what should be written; otherwise, Luke would not have said what he did in Luke 1:1-4, in particular in verse three where Luke "investigated everything from the beginning" before writing an orderly account.
Each of the New Testament writers had unique backgrounds that influenced what each one wrote. For example, Luke was a physician, so his writings were colored with medical terms in regards to leprosy-Luke 5:12; a high fever-Luke 4:38; the scales the fell from Saul’s eyes-Luke 9:18; the demon-possessed man who was cured without injury-Luke 4:35. Certainly, Paul’s earlier years as a highly educated Pharisee who persecuted Christians also weighed heavily on his writings later in life.
It is very interesting that 40 writers, on three different continents, over 1500 years managed to write the 66 books that make up the Bible; and they did it in such a way that the common thread of Jesus is harmoniously woven throughout the Bible. Today, the wisdom in God’s inspired Word continues to equip us for every good work.

Defending Your Faith (October 6, 2005)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
Do you know why you believe what you believe; and if so, do you know how to defend what you believe? Sometimes (and in fact, often times), Christians find themselves defending their faith with other Christians, or possibly people of the Christian faith who have differing points of view on church doctrine and Christian living.
At first thought, some might think, “Why would I even want to defend what I believe? After all, it’s not my problem if someone attacks my faith or doesn’t believe the Bible.”
But in 1 Peter 3, as the writer addresses believers on the topic of harmony and brotherly love among Christians, Peter encourages us in righteous living, and to not be afraid of persecution.
“15. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
16. keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.”
The Word of God deserves our utmost respect. Aside from the fact the Bible is God-breathed (2 Tim. 3:16), the Bible has been translated more than any other book in existence. Scripture, biblical divisions, and lists of writings from the Old Testament and New Testament have been cited even outside of the Bible by early church leaders, Jewish historians, and others dating back to 130 B.C.-393 A.D. Some have even given their lives for it. Bible study... It’s the Bread of Life... Eat up!

Burnt Cabin Needs & Projects (September 29, 2005)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
The Burnt Cabin Board and Camp Directors Fall Meeting issued a challenge to Fort Gibson and the other congregations that host weeks of summer camp.
We need to raise $3500 to do our part in paying for $23,400 dollars in repairs, upgrades, and operating expenses during the off season. Please turn-in your checks to the office made out to Burnt Cabin Christian Camp.
Here’s the list of things caretaker Sam Yaws and volunteers (like us) will be working on between now and summer:
1. Repair upper wall in parking area -------------$9000
2. Repair walkways to apt. & bridge to old lodge--$600
3. Build bridge to swimming pool from new lodge $3000
4. Repair and paint fence around swimming pool --$100
5. Replace rotten wood on old lodge ------------ $2000
6. Fill dirt around volleyball court & plant lawn-----$800
7. Paint garage and apartment----------------------$600
8. Install two horseshoe pits------------------------$100
9. Build divider in basement of new lodge.----------$200
Total Repair Costs------------------------------$16,400
General Fund Needs-----------------------------$7,000
Total to be raised-------------------------------$23,400
Fort Gibson’s Share---------------------------------$3,500
Kids
Start now saving $11 per month and you will have nearly your entire camp fee saved up by the time camp rolls around (unless you go two weeks). Teenweek is May 27-June 2, Mini-Camp is July 5-8, Ft. Gibson week is July 16-22, 2006.

But God Intended It For Good
Calamity brings Blessings
by Barrett Vanlandingham (September 8, 2005)

What good could possibly come out of Hurricane Katrina? Everyday, I hear personal stories from Christian brothers and sisters of life-changing experiences that have happened to them during their volunteer efforts.
Rachel Elliott, Bo Minor, and Ryan Keese, were among the hundreds this week who went to Camp Gruber to lend a hand to the shocked, sad, and fearful hurricane victims by sorting & organizing clothes, and helping people find clothes & shoes that fit.
Cindy Compelube helped by providing food and collars for pets, while also being a listening ear, and providing one lady who had lost a lot of weight during this crisis with undergarments and denture pads.
Paula Fontenot, Mike Owen, and my parents, and dozens more put in hours and hours helping people find their loved ones on the internet, and helping them get registered for federal assistance. One lady told my mother that New Orleans is an evil place and she’s glad to be away from it. One man said, “It’s beautiful here!” He plans to make a new life for himself here. Many are worried about getting their last paychecks from business that have been destroyed.
However, volunteers are reporting that the refugees are very appreciative of their efforts and hospitality. Upon receiving help and words of hope... leaps, hugs, and tears of joy are reported time and time again. There are just as many more emotionally-draining, heart-wrenching, as well as encouraging stories as there are people who’ve been affected by disaster.
Once again, the ancient words of Joseph as spoken to his worldly-thinking and now frightened brothers in Genesis 50:20 ring true: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” God is good!
Let’s all pray that God will give us the wisdom and strength to promote unity and compassion during times like these and all the time.
Youth calendar can be viewed at: www.youthcalendar.blogspot.com

Lives Lost in Flood
A Familiar Story (9-1-2005)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
When I see the images on the news of people in New Orleans with almost no hope... busting holes through their attics to climb to their rooftops... trying to get away from the rising floodwaters left from Hurricane Katrina... I can’t help but compare to an event that took place about 4500 years ago in the days of Noah. The flood.
In both cases, the unimaginable happened. Lives lost and property destroyed even though warnings had been broadcasted. Noah preached to the people for a hundred years while he was building the ark. In the case of the hurricane, the media gave warnings for days. Most evacuated; some didn’t listen; some heard but couldn’t get out in time. New Orleans is built in a bowl below sea level, using man-made walls to prevent flooding catastrophes. It works most of the time.
Here are some thoughts: Where are you building your spiritual house? On higher ground using the words of Jesus where you will be safe even when the mists of sin rise, or down low in the spiritual flood zone where you may be safe most of the time unless the unthinkable happens, and man’s selfishness prevails.
Sometimes in life, we do things that the Bible condemns; and sometimes, we do things we consider to be in the gray area of biblical authority. Let’s all pray for the desire to study God’s Word, and for Him to bless us with the understanding and strength we need to apply His will. “for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” (Philippians 2:13)

Evangelism... Methods Change (Sometimes)... Message the Same (August 25, 2005)

by Barrett Vanlandingham
It never ceases to amaze me just how quickly satan begins to knock our children off the spiritual mountaintop they become accustomed to while at camp and shortly thereafter. I was reading a website of a young lady who attends Burnt Cabin with us. She indicated in her online journal how horrible her life was, and that she was so confused about which way she should turn, and that life had basically turned her world upside down lately.
(yes, young people are posting their personal thoughts on the internet. It’s like an online photo & text album called Xanga.com they use to catch up on what’s going on with friends. Just like any communication tool, it can be used for good or bad. The kids seem to be okay with their youth minister posting messages on their sites.)
In this young lady’s case, it was clear to me that she had let go of Jesus. So, I thought, "What’s the worst thing that could happen if I send her a time-proven message by using this popular new method of teen communication?" I proceeded to tell her (as a big brother in Christ would) that I thought she had lost her focus on God, and that she needed to make Him her priority agaiin, get involved in His church, trust in His power to work in her life and give her the peace, joy, and hope she needs, and everything else would fall into place. To my delight, she had a very positive response, as did a friend of hers who is apparently not a Christian but who hated to see a friend in such turmoil.
Sometimes, as in this case, we just need to be reminded of the apostle Paul’s God-inspired words in Philippians 4:13. "I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
All I can say is, "God is good!" Once again, He proved that if we will continue to lovingly teach His plan for joy, peace, and salvation... people will listen and eventually respond... no matter how old or young they are! This young lady still has her highs and lows, but overall... putting God’s plan for her life back into the mix seems to have helped her outlook. Praise God!
The Power is in the Word
Paul said in Romans 1:16-17
16. "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.
17. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."
In other News...
Lunchtable for Christians
We’ve all heard of feasting on the Word of the Lord. But high schoolers in our youth group are trying something new this school year to stay strong in the faith even while at school. They’ve decided to eat at the same lunchtable! But as with any good idea, there are always snags in this imperfect world. A table seats about 12, and on top of that... so many other kids want to sit at this table with our kids, there isn’t enough room for very many of our kids to find a seat. Nice problem to have.

How Do I Get There?
by Barrett Vanlandingham

Ecclesiastes 10: 15 states, “A fool’s work wearies him; he does not know the way to town.”
On the way to the church building this morning, I pulled up to the intersection of Highway 62 and Willey Road... and for some reason I began to count the number of road signs at or near that intersection. There were more than TWENTY.
They said STOP, YIELD, ONE-WAY, 45 MPH, HWY 62, WILLEY RD, WRONG WAY... while others warned of an INTERSECTION, or informed of HOW FAR to the next town.
I thought to myself, how is a driver supposed to look at all 20 of those signs while keeping his eyes on the road? It’s kind of like living the Christian life. If we spent all of our time looking for signs, it would be difficult to move forward with the daily responsibilities of being a Christian. That’s why it is important to have a healthy prayer life, gain understanding of God’s will through Bible study, and grow spiritually by applying that knowledge to our lives. When God’s Word is written on our hearts, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that our actions, words, and attitudes are signs to other people of where they can find Jesus. What’s your sign?

The Simple Truth Preached
by Barrett Vanlandingham (August 4, 2005)

I would like to give our sermon deliverers at Burnt Cabin this summer a GREAT BIG ATTA BOY. The theme of “Revive in 2005” served as a great springboard for sermons, Bible classes, Bible studies, and discussions all week.
Gary Cook got real with us on Sunday morning and talked about re-evaluating priorities in his family’s life and making a renewed commitment to making decisions that glorify God. It was a great challenge for all of us.
During the week, Kenny Lashley, Rob Wallace, and David Walker preached the TRUTH, and when they were finished, there was no doubt in anyone’s mind what it takes to please our heavenly Father, and the challenges that are before us.
Rob spoke on having a passion for lost souls, and just what extremes are we willing to go to in order to save a brother or sister who is lost.
Kenny examined the scripture to dispel some of the myths of today’s religious culture, while emphasizing what the Bible’s says about God’s plan of salvation.
David preached on shining your light and watching God light your world. He reminded us that as God’s chosen people, the world will probably not like us or the message of Jesus we are bringing.
Josh Roberts of Sand Springs preached about Christ’s return and what we need to do in order to make sure we are ready for that day, whenever it is.
My message was that you know you are alive in Jesus when you take up for Him, take Him to others, and take His words to heart. It was definitely a week of Revival.
Back to School... doesn’t have to mean Back to Mediocrity
(for kids or adults)
“Back to School” often means “Back to the old way of doing things.” While we were at camp a couple of weeks ago, a high school boy said he dreaded going back to school because it would be so hard to live the way God wants him to live. Why? He said it will be difficult to have the nerve to go against the expectations of what other kids have of him.
Parents often spend bigger blocks of time with their children in the summers. This makes for some really good teaching time. But you know, the good teaching doesn’t have to stop when school starts. Parents just have to have the guts to do the Godly thing.
But do we have the nerve to oppose the world’s way of thinking?
Our culture, mainly through the media and clothing manufacturers, tries to convince us that the world’s way is the only way if you want to be cool or succeed in life.
There are also pressures locally to get our kids involved in every sport, organization, and club possible in order for our children to be in the “in crowd” or to have every second outside of eating and sleeping taken up with practices of one kind or another. After all, (satan would say) “You can worry about growing spiritually, later. Right now is all about your happiness.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him , and he will make your paths straight.”

24 Baptisms at Camp!!! by Barrett Vanlandingham (July 28, 2005)

July 18th, Monday - Kacy Cook-Fort Gibson
Sammy Jo Brown-Fort Gibson19th, Tuesday - Amy Cothrum-Fort Gibson
Amber Ivy-Fort Gibson20th, Wednesday- Amber Grammer-Preston
Samantha McDaniels-OKC21st, Thursday - Jackie Hart-Fort Gibson
Aurora Ferland-Tahlequah
Brittany McNeer-Fort Gibson
Ashley Cox-Fort Gibson
Bo Minor-Fort Gibson
Stephen Keese-Fort Gibson
Cameron Youngblood-Fort Gibson
Cole Berkenbile-Fort Gibson22nd, Friday - Lance Bowden-Fort Gibson
Chasen Hardin-Fort Gibson
Chelsey Mead-Fort Gibson
Destiny Mead-Fort Gibson
Anna Sturgeon-Fort Gibson
Rachel Elliott-Fort Gibson
Mika Stone-Fort Gibson
Mallory Jameson-Tulsa
Ken Jameson (Mallory’s dad)-Tulsa
23rd, Saturday - Hunter Edwards-Piedmont (was baptized Saturday morning before leaving camp)
Gary Canan (South Walker-OKC) youth minister says Krista Spencer was baptized the Sunday morning after camp.

Burnt Cabin Camper Awards (July 17-23, 2005)
MODEL JR GIRL
Nickie Vinyard-Haskell
MODEL
INTERMEDIATE GIRL
Morgan Rockman-Bartlesville
MODEL SR GIRL
Brooke Berkenbile-Fort Gibson
MODEL JR BOY
Hunter Hackworth-Fort Gibson
MODEL
INTERMEDIATE BOY
Kacy Cook-Ft. Gibson
MODEL SR BOY
Kris Elliott-Fort Gibson

BEST JR GIRL
BIBLE STUDENT
Mycah Higley-Ft. Gibson
BEST INTERMEDIATE GIRL
BIBLE STUDENT
Aurora Ferland-ahlequah
BEST SR GIRL
BIBLE STUDENT
Megan Durham-Sand Springs
BEST JR BOY
BIBLE STUDENT
Joe Ryan Anderson-Morris
BEST INTERMEDIATE BOY
BIBLE STUDENT
Stephen Keese-Fort Gibson
BEST SR BOY
BIBLE STUDENT
Luke Hollen-Sand Springs

COURTNEY KEESE
SERVANT HEART AWARD
Carlon Caldwell-OKC

DIRECTOR’S AWARD
(Best All-Around Model Camper)
Jenna Arnett-Fort Gibson
Bo Minor-Fort Gibson

ROYALTY (voted on by campers)
King-Carlon Caldwell-OKC Queen-Elyane Hensley-Tulsa
Prince-Kacy Cook-FTG Princess-Brooke Walker-FTG
Duke-Hunter Hackworth-FTG Duchess-Chelsey Mead-FTG

Thoughts from Burnt Cabin by Barrett Vanlandingham (July 19, 2005)
A Leap of Faith - Tuesday, midnight
As campers entered the pool area Tuesday at Burnt Cabin for the 3rd and 4th baptisms of the week, it was evident that the attention would have to be
shared. A slippery, four-legged critter was taking a late night swim. It wasn’t exactly a plaque of frogs, but one little tree-frog swimming near where Amber Ivy and Amy Cothrum were stepping into the pool to be baptized ... quite a spectacle! So, between "Hoppy" the chlorine-loving amphibian, and "Pepper" the barking, nocturnal, squirrel-chasing canine ... campers still managed to give the majority of their attention to the business at hand of saving souls which the day before also included Kacy Cook and Sammy Jo Brown. I was very impressed with the spiritual focus of all the campers and how well-behaved everyone has been by midweek. It is amazing what God can do and does if we will simply pay attention to the work He does in our lives everyday. (Camp Director to bed at 12:30)
From the Rising of the Sun - Wednesday, 6:00 a.m.
What an awesome morning. Following the lead of Kenny Lashley and Chris
Branscum, I decided to catch a sunrise over Burnt Cabin from the gazebo near the old lodge. SPECTACULAR. We could feel a cool breeze, and take-in the sights and sounds of a bluebird, a nuthatch (Kenny had to point out the identity of that sound to me), and a crow... all sang together in chorus as the rising sun painted orange lines on the morning clouds just above Lake Tenkiller. Eventually, the sounds of campers’ footsteps crunching across the gravel as they made their way up the hill and down the hill (depending on bunkhouse location) to the morning flagpole devotional. It’s almost time to ring the bell. I wonder what wonders God will bring us today.

Religious & Physical Persecution
A Call for Prayer
by Barrett Vanlandingham (July 7, 2005)

Prayer Warriors listen up!
My cousin, Chad Vanlandingham sent me this
information this week regarding a new Christian just baptized last week who may be facing death because of his decision to become a Christian; I am urging your immediate help in the way of prayer.
In Chad’s words:
A mission team from our home congregation, Center Street Church of Christ in Fayettevile, Arkansas, just came home this last week. They have been to Sierra Leone, located on the west coast of Africa. God blessed them with great success while they were there.
I am writing to tell you about a young man named Omar that our team became aquainted with during their stay in Sierra Leone. Omar has been studying the Word for quite some time now through World Bible School.
Omar’s father is a leader for the Muslim religion. Knowing there would be consequences for his decision to take on Christ in baptism, Omar decided to be baptized anyway. This took place over the last week just before our team left to come back to the States. Since his baptism, he has taken a whipping, 100 lashes to be exact, has been placed in solitary confinement, and will be forced to fast so that he might reconsider his decision about becoming a Christian.
I am not able to describe the great faith Omar has. He knew all along he would be punished for his willingness to commit his life to Christ.
I am ashamed to know that I have complained about how tough different situations have been in my life.I have read, just as you have, about the stories of
followers of Christ. I have read about the pain and suffering they experienced because of their decisions.
I now know four men personally, who have read the scriptures with, prayed with, sang with, and cried withanother man who has suffered, and will continue to suffer for his beliefs.
My faith has been strengthened because of this. Please pray for Omar to not return to the Muslim religion, but to hold on to Christ and to seek God’s help for strength.
Your Brother in Christ--Chad

Prayer Works!
Yes, prayer offered in faith works... but we must pray in order for prayer to work. Then, if it is God’s will, He will respond as we hoped. In Mark 11:24 Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”
But Jesus knew firsthand more than anyone that our desires must measure up to God’s will and not the other way around. In Matthew 26:39 Jesus said these words just hours before His crucifixion: Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." We serve a God who understands!
In one instance, James (possibly the Lord’s brother) said in James 4:2-3 that we do not have because we do not ask God with the right motives.
May we all strive to improve our prayer life. (BV)

What Are We Doing For Christ?
by Barrett Vanlandingham

What are we doing for Christ? The answer is... "everything" if we are paying attention to Paul’s
God-inspired passage in Galatians 5:25 which says, "Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit." I, for one, am so happy to be a part of a group of Jesus-loving, God-fearing people who live to serve the Almighty. This doesn’t mean we always get it right. It simply means we know which direction we are headed and we know we will get there because the Spirit will lead us all the way presuming we do not turn away from God and conform to the world.
Being a child of God is described further in v. 24. "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires."
When we commit fully to Christ, satan will no longer have a hold on us because Jesus will not allow it. Jesus and satan will NOT walk hand in hand along the same path. This is good news for us, because if we are walking hand in hand with Jesus, we are assured that satan can not pull us away. It is only when we choose to let go of Christ’s hand, and leave the path of righteousness that satan can grab hold of us. Light and dark cannot live in the same heart. We have to give up one to serve the other.
A popular talk show host has coined the phrase: "How’s that workin’ for you?" This phrase perfectly illustrates the consequences of following God, versus knowingly engaging in sinful practices. You see, when we walk with God, things always work for the good; however, those of us who have ever chosen to sin (and that’s probably all of us at one time or another) have found that purposely falling into sin only leads to worry, heartache, sadness, insecurity, and many kinds of danger. Everything we think, do, and say brings us a step closer or a step further away from God and our eternal goal of heaven. It is very important for us to remember Christ’s words in Revelation 22:12. "Behold I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done." (N.I.V.)
In our congregation, we have many examples of people who keep in step with the Spirit. These are men, women, and children who are walking with God. You already know the good things being accomplished by many of them with God’s help, but many of our Christian brothers and sisters go about quietly doing good deeds, and even suffering various kinds of persecution with no earthly recognition. Be that as it may, I would like to let all of those quiet workers in God’s kingdom know just how much they are appreciated by everyone. More importantly, God appreciates the things you do in the name of Christ to give praise, honor, and glory to Him.
Did you know that people in our congregation do everything from writing love notes, making phone calls, and personal visits, to mowing lawns, running errands, decorating the church building, taking people out to eat or having them over for dinner, cooking for various church functions, conducting Bible studies, being a listening ear, and simply praying. So, "What are we doing for Christ?" A lot. Still, we should all be ever-mindful of the fact that God has done more for us than we could ever do for Him... and when it’s all over... God is the only One who can offer us a home in heaven. Let us all work ‘til Jesus comes, and take pride in giving God the glory in all things.

Fourth of July Weekend
A Look Back at Tradition
by Barrett Vanlandingham (June 23, 2005)

Sunday, July 3, 2005 at 5pm will mark at least a 30 year tradition for the Fort Gibson Church of Christ, a congregation which actually began in July, 100 years ago..
In recent years, including this year, evening worship will be held at Henry and Cheryl Petree’s. Bring lawn chairs, side dishes, desserts, and ice-cream... meat will be provided.
Decades ago, these gatherings were held at I.B. and Marie Branscum’s farm, and then later at Randy and Susan’s. “Everyone just showed up, played games, ate ice-cream, worshipped, and just enjoyed each other’s company during a visit that lasted til sundown when the fireworks started,” said Marie. Singing, praying, fellowshipping, & preaching are most important, but the fireworks are always a “blast.”
Henry will deliver the 2005 message. You may remember Fourth of July weekend preaching from as far back as the mid-70’s delivered by Jimmy Sites, Bob Young, Dick Canada, Mark Cheatham, Doug Lawyer, Lynn Huff, Larry Culbreath, Roy Risley, Clarence Feeney, Bud Tibbles, W.B. Luck, Lee West, and John Yocham (and that only goes back to the 50’s).
Tradition is exciting. But there is a day and a place to which we can all look still forward. Let’s all make our calling & election sure (2 Pet 1:10), & live lives that will lead to where a thousand years is like a day (2 Pet 3:8).
“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Heb 10:25)

Vacation Bible School
It’s the Season
by Barrett Vanlandingham (June 16, 2005)

In Leviticus 26:4, God says He will bless those who are careful to obey His commands: "I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit."
It’s been several years since members of the Lord’s church here in Fort Gibson have attempted a VBS. But this is the season for a change. New members Jonathan and Jessica Hendricks have stepped up to take on the challenge of directing a VBS. The Hendricks’ told me, "The volunteer response has been overwhelming! We’ve gotten more volunteers here than anywhere we’ve ever put on this VBS." The Hendricks have also directed the "Jesus to the Rescue" VBS at Bristow, Chandler Road in Muskogee, and Mission, Texas.
This year’s VBS is sponsored by the Outreach Ministry (which also sponsors Monday Night for the Master). The goal is to not only get kids in here to teach them, but to take the church’s efforts past this one week commitment. "We want the church to use VBS as a stepping stone for future contact with these kids so they will come to other events, and eventually want to stay connected with this church family."
Each night will feature a different Bible lesson that shows how Jesus rescued people long ago just like He rescues us today.
Mon: Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand~ Matthew 14
Tue: Jesus Calms the Storm~ Matthew 8
Wed: Jesus Raises Lazarus from the Dead~John 11
Thu: Jesus Heals the Blind & Mute~ Matthew 9

The Fields are Ready for Harvest
Will You Help?
by Barrett Vanlandingham (June 9, 2005)

I have been encouraged the last few weeks to find out that the days of door-knocking are not behind us. During Monday Night for the Master, a group of young people loaded on the van, unloaded into a neighborhood, and started talking to kids and their parents. God was AMAZING. He even challenged us. Four kids from that neighborhood attended class on Wednesday night a couple of weeks ago following a similar visit. We even had kids kids who approached us to ask if we could come to their house and talk to their parents; other kids wanted to get onto our van right then and there, and go wherever we were going!
So what does this mean for you? OPPORTUNITY.
Vacation Bible School
is coming up June 20-23 at 6pm each night. This means all those houses that you pass on your way here, there, and everywhere... are not just houses; they are houses with people in them; some of those people may be in a saved condition, but probably more of those people are in a lost condition and may suffer an eternity in hell if we all don’t take seriously our Christian responsibility to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community.

Galatians 6:9 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Most of us are more motivated to door-knock or to do any kind of service project when we know that other people will be helping. But for those who are mature in their faith enough to quietly go about their business of serving, teaching others, and inviting lost souls to become a part of God’s family, we all say THANK YOU for setting a wonderful example. Your work has not gone unnoticed by as many people as you think. And more importantly, your work has not gone unnoticed by the One who will welcome all His faithful into that heavenly home we all long for.
If you need a door-knocking partner, a visitation partner, a study buddy, or maybe someone to pray with, a good place to start would be at Monday Night for the Master. I go to a lot of motivational youth events, but I can’t think of anything that motivates me more for doing good works and getting the gospel out to a lost and dying world than getting together with my Christian family on a Monday night to work for Him. It is Godly, positive, motivational energy that just makes you feel GOOD! And more importantly, God is glorified.
If you need a specific project to motivate you, why not set your goal at bringing five kids to VBS in addition to the ones who already attend here and will already be coming. It’s a worthy goal, and one that is so much easier than anything Jesus ever went through in His time on Earth.
Hebrews 12:3 “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

What Is The Afterlife Like?
Are You Ready?
by Barrett Vanlandingham (June 2, 2005)

Since Heaven and Hell after judgment, as well as Paradise and Torment in the immediate afterlife are spiritual , not physical places, any description such as golden streets or fire and brimstone only serves to let us know that those who are found to be faithful are destined to enjoy a reward better than we can possibly imagine; likewise, those who die in their uncovered (by Christ’s blood) sins will suffer an eternity of unimaginable pain.
Luke 16:19-31 tells us about a rich man and a beggar named Lazarus who laid at the rich man’s gate. Lazarus was covered with sores and longed to eat scraps that fell from the rich man’s table. Both died. The rich man went to Torment, while Lazarus was carried by angels to Paradise. They were in separate places with Lazarus unable to even dip the tip of his finger in water to cool the tongue of the rich man who was in agony in fire.
There are several things we should know about where we go after death.
1) It is a place we cannot leave until the final judgement, and even then, we have no reason to believe that our eternal destiny will be inconsistent with our life immediately following death. In other words, if we are found worthy to be in Paradise after death, there is nothing to suggest that we could be found unworthy at judgment and thus land in Hell. Likewise, a person who is sentenced to Torment in the afterlife will continue to be separated from God because that person’s sins were not covered by the blood of Jesus; and a dead person has no more chances to repent, to be forgiven, or to be baptized.
2) It is a place where we will be able to recognize our loved ones who are there, and remember our loved ones who have yet to pass. The rich man was worried about his five brothers. He wanted Abraham to send Lazarus to warn them of the terrible fate that would also befall them upon death if they behaved on earth as he did. This is something of interest whether you believe your loved ones are in Torment or in Paradise. What message of hope or word of warning do you think they would send to you if they could regarding the reality of Torment and Paradise? What would they say about the consequences of sin, the vengeance of God, or the reward for the faithful, and the incredible relief for those who walked with God even when no one else would?
3) It is a place with two distinctive thermostat settings. Lazarus was comfortable, while the rich man was in agony. The irony of life versus the afterlife is portrayed in this passage as opposites. In verse 25, Abraham said that the rich man received good things on earth, while Lazarus received bad things; but in the afterlife, the opposite was true for them; so in the end, Lazarus found favor with the Lord in the afterlife, while the rich man had already received his earthly reward which made him ineligible to enjoy Paradise after death.
Torment is a place of total darknes, a place that stinks, a place of extreme heat and fire, and a place of extreme pain. Wouldn’t it be sad to notice in the afterlife that some of your friends and loved ones were not found worthy? What about now? Do you have close friends or family who are going against God’s will? Does it bother you? If so, now is the time to give them a lifeline, because the window of opportunity will close with no warning.

Remember Him!
by Barrett Vanlandingham (May 26, 2005)

Ecclesiastes 12:1 states:
“Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and no longer enjoy living.”
By the time this article lands in your mailbox, our youth ministry intern David Lee Walker, myself, Michelle Moore, Vicki Walker, Beth Brannon, and dozens of other staffers and campers will be kicking off a wonderful TeenWeek at Burnt Cabin Christian Camp.
Our theme, “Remember Him” is the springboard for ten Bible classes plus nightly worship based on Solomon’s words penned nearly 3000 years ago.
The idea of this week is to let our young people know that God wants us to live an abundant life... from the time we are young... until the time we grow old. God never intended for those who follow after Him to give up things like laughter, fun, friendships,relationships, money, and all material possessions. But God makes it very clear in His Word that we will be held accountable for every decision, thought, action, and word. He wants us to bring Him along with us wherever we go when we are young, so that we will develop a fellowship with God that will last well into our adult years. Our bodies may grow tired and weary as we grow older, but our relationship with God will only grow stronger and more meaningful with time. The years may make this world a tougher place to live in physically, but the years will also give us more hope and excitement for what lies ahead for those who are found to be faithful in the end.
Our daily Bible classes will include “Remember Him!”
1) When Away From Home
- taught by Brad Williams of Skiatook
2) In the Battles of Life
-taught by Barrett Vanlandingham of Fort Gibson
3) In the Night Season (during quiet times by yourself)
-taught by Mike Herndon of Edmond
4) In Early Life
-taught by Donnie Branscum of Skiatook
5) In Times of Trouble
-taught by Steve Parker of Chickasha
What an honor it is for me to serve with so many people who I consider to be very accomplished in teaching God’s Word to young people. Two of whom (Donnie and Steve), as you may remember are youth minister alumni from the Fort Gibson Church of Christ.
In case any of you would like to come out and visit, meals are $3. Our schedule is pretty tight during the day; so you may want to come and join us for worship each night at 8pm except for Tuesday. Evening entertainment includes:
Monday: OC’s Lighten Up (accoustic/ comedy)
Tuesday: OC’s New Reign (acappella contemporary)
Wednesday: OC’s Summer Singers (musical variety)
Thursday: Ron Cole (music, laser lights, fog, anti-drug message).
If anyone needs to contact the camp, here are some numbers for you:
Barrett’s cell 348-4313
Donnie’s cell 918-396-3084
David Lee’s cell 869-1562
Sam(caretaker) 457-4120 / 5209 / or cell 671-1049

Let Your Light Shine
by Barrett Vanlandingham (May 19, 2005)

As I write this article (Wednesday), I find it hard to stay inside because it is such a beautiful day outside. That’s the way people should view Christians: a breath of fresh air and sunshine. Is that how people view us? It is only when someone is going against God’s will, that the light of His presence is seen as an intrusion or a threat. Light exposes darkness. But even then, Jesus says people will glorify the Father when we do good deeds with the proper attitude:
16"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 NASB) This verse from the Sermon on the Mount is one of many in Matthew 5-7 that has given the world an incredible amount of hope, confidence, challenges, and empowerment.
If you ever needed an excuse to take your religious convictions to a higher level, this three chapter passage (which only takes about ten minutes to read) raises the standard for Christians today just like it did for those crowds of people who sat on the side of that mountain nearly two-thousand years ago to hear Jesus preach. His commands regarding murder, disputes, adultery, love for enemies (ch. 5), as well as how to carry out acts of righteousness for the needy, how to pray, how to fast (ch. 6), and His thoughts on judging others and worrying (ch. 7) are all covered in very simple and easy to understand fashion.
In the beatitudes (5:1-12), Jesus challenges us to take on a spirit of humility and obedience, reminding us that the way we think, feel, and act really does impact where we spend eternity. Jesus reminds us that we can “Rejoice and be glad” (5:12) in spite of the insults people cast towards faithful followers. Have you been insulted lately? If not, maybe you’ve lost your saltiness (5:13). Remember, “You are the salt of the earth,” and when we as Christians are doing our job of flavoring our surroundings, people will either taste that God is good, or they will reject the message of Christ and reject us, too. Still, Jesus challenges us to get his message of hope out to a lost and dying world since it is His message, not ours that people desperately need, though often reject.
To me, the Sermon on the Mount is empowering, because Jesus takes this opportunity to tell His followers (us) that mediocrity is not acceptable. The great thing about His statements is that Jesus always tells the truth, and He always follows through on His promises. So, when He tells us to take our spirituality to a higher level (such as regarding anger and lust in the same severity of judgment as murder and adultery), Jesus actually expects us to follow through with it in our obedience. Moreover, we as Christians can be assured that these challenges in Jesus’ sermon can actually be obeyed. It may seem difficult at times, but we can know without a doubt that total commitment is possible. After all, what kind of Judge would issue rules that could not be successfully completed, and then bring about hell, fire, and brimstone for those who fell short. Paul tells us in Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
The only question is whether you stay on the lighted path, fellowshipping with God even in the midst of trials and temptations, or instead choose to turn your back on Him and walk a dark path where Christ’s blood will not continually purify you from all sin. The choice is yours, and so is your eternal destiny. Do you want to live the world’s way, or God’s way? You can do it with His help. That’s a promise. Our loving Jesus always holds the answer… in the light. Jesus loves you. Have a wonderful day!

Compelled by Whose Love?
by Barrett Vanlandingham (May 12, 2005)

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 states:
14. For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.
15. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
The phrase “compelled by love” is a nice one, even if sometimes we have its meaning turned around backwards. We often admire someone because they seem to be continually stirred into action, and we may think to ourselves that they are motivated because of their great love for Christ; or we may think they are motivated because of vast amounts of spiritual discipline they possess.
Well it is true that the first and greatest command is to love God. We cannot get to heaven unless we do, so that is certainly a motivation to stir into action for Him. We also understand that God knows we love Him when we obey His commands.
Perhaps answering the question of why do we not obey His commands is the real issue worth exploring.
I think the reason we do not fully obey God’s commands on a daily basis is because we really do not fully understand the extent of Christ’s love for us. In the two verses stated above, the apostle Paul tells us the motivating factor for obedience to Christ. It is simply “Christ’s love” that He demonstrated by His death on the cross.
And when we fully understand the extent of Christ’s sacrifice for us, God will grant us the kind of faith that will help us to stand firm, even in the midst of societal pressures to “do what everyone else is doing” whether that involves actions or attitudes.
The cross is the most obvious extent we usually think of when we reflect on Christ’s sacrifice. But our culture has commercialized it so much that many people look at the cross as not much more than a religious decoration. Most people would never consider glorifying the weapon that killed a loved one by wearing it on a t-shirt, or by decorating the house with it; and most people would definitely not pay honor to a beloved Jewish ancestor by showcasing the design of a hate-symbol or a torture chamber that was involved in the attempted-extermination of a race of people. The cross should make us sick to our stomachs, put a lump in our throats, and bring tears of sorrow and joy to our eyes at the very thought of it.

But there are many more ways in which our Savior showed his love even before the cross. Luke 9:57-58 reminds us that Christ gave up the comforts of heaven. John 1:1-3 & v. 18 remind us of his separation from his Father. John 17:1-5 tells us that Jesus sacrificed glory and took on human form. Philippians 2:1-11 tells us he made himself nothing. Revelation 5:1-14 reminds us of the universal worship directed at Jesus while he was in heaven that included angels and all creatures.
It is difficult to imagine leaving all of that behind; and don’t forget, Jesus knew from before the beginning of time the amount of emotional and physical pain he would have to endure in order to get the message across to us that HE LOVES US; that’s a long time to have something that heavy on your mind. It is only because of His love for us that He gives us hope by showing us the way.

Does the World Hate You?
It Should! (but don’t form an opinion yet)
by Barrett Vanlandingham (May 3, 2005)

Some people will be drawn to you in this world because they see Christ living in you. Many people also loved Jesus because of his special qualities which we are to immitate. But most people didn’t love Christ, and most people don’t love you either if you are following Jesus. After all, “...small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:14) Christians are the few! Jesus said this to his followers:
“ 18. "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20. Remember the words I spoke to you: `No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.” (John 15:18-20)
So I guess the question we need to ask ourselves is this: “Does the world hate me?” If the answer is “no,” then we must look at what extremes we are going to in this life to “fit in” to our culture and our world. If you feel that the world loves you, ask yourself this question: “Exactly what about me does the world love”? Does the world love you because of your godly qualities? Some people will, but most people wont. It feels good to be loved and appreciated. But if those postive strokes are coming from worldly points of view, then you need to re-assess your priorities, and decide for what reasons you want people to love you... for worldly reasons, or godly.
The more people I talk with, the more I realize the sense of hopelessness and helplessness people are feeling... and it’s not just the people “out there.” It’s our own Christian family in many cases. These are people who call themselves Christians, but have somehow missed the part about following Christ... ALL THE WAY. Does this person sound like you? I hope not, but in the midst of life’s valleys, sometimes it is difficult to see anything but mountains of stress and depression in our way. During those times, we need to re-focus our sight on the Mountain-Mover instead of the mountain.
1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us that God is faithful.
The point it is, we live in a broken world, and this is not exactly heaven on earth. We struggle with problems everyday; and everyday, we feel unacceptance and even hatred by the world. The only choice we have is to decide whether we are going to go through all of this WITH God, or WITHOUT Him. However, your eternal destiny depends on which choice you make.
Joshua made the choice publicly in Joshua 24:15 when he said, “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua reminded all the tribes of Israel that day at Shechem what the Lord had done for them; and that day the people renewed their covenant to serve and yield their hearts to the God of Israel, and throw away their foreign gods. Have you made the choice? Do you need to renew your covenant with God? The message that God gave to Joshua in chapter 1:9 still applies to us today: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
(also ref: 2 Cor. 6:14-7, Proverbs 3:5-6, 2 Peter 1:2-11)