A Word from Roger

It's me again!

2010-12-19T08:43:00.002-06:00

I know that you have probably wearied of my neglect on this blog. All I can say is I'm sorry. This has just not been a priority! This year has been interesting to say the least. I am blessed to have family and friends who love me and share with me their encouragement and opportunity to fulfill the plan of God for my life.

I walk each day as though it may be the last. I have found that we just really don't have a clue as to when this life will come to a close, so I am challenged to make the most of the life that God has provided for me.

Ministry is a priority to me and during these past few months I have had the joy of spending time with young pastors whose ministry is reaching out to their communities with compassion and love. We have laughed together, wept together, strategized, restructured, and refined their dreams in the light of nearly a half century of ministry experience. Most of the time, I remember the frustration of the things that they are experiencing for themselves. I would like to shelter them, and guard them from such things, but each of us must be strengthened by fire to fulfill the furture that God has for me.

As I sat across the table from a dear friend several weeks ago, I listened as he talked about the situations that he was facing. As I sat there, I remembered the thoughts that I had earlier concerning this young gifted brother. I remembered when he assumed the pastorate of the church that he now serves. It seemed that his ministry had skyrocketed past the humble beginnings of most of his peers. But as I sat listening, I realized that he had come to this place in his life through many sorrows. Things are not always as they seem. We preachers have learned how to put on a fascade that hides the pain of our lives.

It takes a real and genuine committment to serve people. Bishop T.D. Jakes shared this morning a message that included this statement: "There is only One Master! The rest of us are mere servants!" It is easy to become arrogant in our positions of leadership. It seems that the light shines upon us and we get accustomed to the limelight. If it happens to fade for one reason or another, we start tunning toward the light, so that we can be showered with the "attention that we so richly deserve"!

But we must realize that we are mere servants of the Master! John Maxwell shared in a conference a few years ago, that He had come to look into the crowd and ask the Lord to allow him to see the people the way that the Master viewed them. It is amazing how Jesus will allow you to see the hearts of those that are in the audience.

Our churches are filled with people who are struggling with the issues of life every day! They are not just facing the reality of life on Wednesday, but they are facing the challenge of life every day. They feel the pressure of performance on the job, in the home, at the church, and among their friends. They paint the picture in as friendly a fashion as they can, but life is an continuing saga. We face hardship as well as blessing. We endure pain as well as we enjoy victory. We cry in anguish as well as we wipe tears of joy at the birth of a child. Life is complex!

There is only one thing that will balance it all. That is an intimate walk with the Master! Jesus is our Mentor, our faithful Friend, and our living Savior. Make this the prayer of your life for today:

Dear Lord Jesus, I want to live my life with joy as I serve you and those who are around me this day. Forgive me of my sin, renew my faith in You and enable me to be a blessing to those who surround me by displaying the love of God. In Jesus Name, Amen!

Yesterday I sat with a friend in a restaurant having lunch. Our waitress was very inattentive to our table and every time we needed a drink refill we had to ask. When we would ask, she would grunt out, "You'll have to wait your turn!" We looked around and there were 25 empty tables and 3 full tables. So we patiently waited our turn. When we went to leave, we both made it a point to leave a generous tip for her. As we checked out, she said, "I overheard your conversation and wondered what church you attend". We responded with our information. Then we were amazed as she told us that she was a faithful believer of a sister church in the area. It actually stunned us as she identified herself as a believer. As we walked out, I told my friend that it was a good thing that she told us that she was a believer. We would not have known by any other way. How will those people that you meet today percieve your testimony? Serve the Lord with gladness!

Just a thought.....

By the way, Merry CHRISTmas!

I wonder....

2010-02-17T10:20:00.002-06:00

ID protection is a major enterprise in our technical world today. I hear horror stories about identities being assumed and life history being infiltrated to the point of destruction. You have probably seen the commercial that talks about the guy whose identity was stolen and the thief bought a home, a vacation resort, three LED big screen TV's and a car. His life changed to a defensive mode to try to regain his identity. It would take a great deal of time, expense, and energy to regain all that had been violated by the intruder.

It is hard to imagine that all this could happen, often as a result of a scrap of paper, or an internet purchase, or someone hacking your personal computer while you were totally mesmerized in the caccoon that is know as your world.

Shane and I discussed David and Michal as we drove along today. You remember David's wife, whose claim to fame was her response to David as he danced before the Ark of the Covenant. David was so excited that he had been able to return the Ark, that he danced without his kingly robes.

2 Sam 6:16 As the ark of the LORD was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, she despised him in her heart.

It was to most an awesome act of worship. But Michal, who had been rejected and betrayed by David and wounded emotionally by his immorality, was disgusted with the double standard that he displayed as openly he danced and behind the scenes he reveled! David became known as the "man who pursued God" in Acts, but he had other interests at one stage in his life and it left Michal, wounded, rejected and bitter.

Purity is a choice. Often I hear the stories of men who have failed and broken the heart of thier spouse and family with their failure. Several come to mind as I ponder these thoughts today. I guess what I want to say today is this: DO JUSTLY, LOVE MERCY, and WALK HUMBLY before God! Don't become a statistic in the devil's strategy book!

I don't think Michal rejected God, but she was sure fed up with David. Notice the word said that she despised David! "How can you dance before the ark, David, when you have broken the Law of God and violated your committment to me?" I wonder.....

Much can be said and written regarding this, but an important thought is that we each have a responsibility to be consistent in our walk with God to a level that men will not become distracted from HIM but rather drawn to HIM by our actions.

Carry On!

Keep the Faith!

Remembering.....

2009-12-17T06:49:00.002-06:00

I drove in from South Carolina last night. For some reason, it was very important that I get home. As I drove, I reflected on the activities of the week. It had been very busy.

It began this past Saturday as Glenda and I drove to Paducah, spending the night in a hotel in Metropolis. We were there to have a day of ministry on Sunday. Sunday morning, we would be at Full Gospel Tabernacle, the church that my father had served as pastor for more than 28 years. It would be the first time that I had been there in several years. I felt honored to visit there with many of the people that had been friends for most all of those years.

We had moved to Paducah in 1959, and as boy, I remember the excitement that came from moving to the city! But for my father, it was the realization of the calling of God. He often said that he was called of God to Paducah, to preach, pray and love. So it was! He fulfilled that calling with over 28 years of faithful and committed service.

As I walked into the sanctuary of FGT, I could see his hand in every facet of the building. He had turned the first shovel of dirt on the property that he had claimed over and over in prayer, symbolically walking the perimeter of that entire block morning after morning, day after day, asking God for favor so that the church could be built and established. I remembered.....

As I ministered in the service Sunday, it was a stirring message springing from the Book of Habakkuk that spoke of a vision that was so clear that those that read it could run. Vision is often spoken about, but most of us really have little understanding that the vision that we receive is just the tip of an iceburg, so to speak, of a greater picture of the design of God. My portion of that vision is only a part of the greater plan of God. I read from the story of the Israelites passing across the Jordan, each tribe taking a stone with which to build a lasting memorial to the realization of arriving at the promise and all that had happened through the many years of their relocation from Egypt to the Promise Land. Really this memorial was more than just a remembering place; it was a place to decide where and what would Israel do from that place to possess the promise.

The service ended Sunday morning with the entire congregation gathering to renew a commitment to the greater vision, to not dwell in the shadow of the past, but to rise up with a new awareness of the providence of God and the call of God on all of our lives to "run this race with victory"! God sealed this moment with His Presence as I washed the feet of a dear brother, representing a brokenness, and humility of the heart. It was at that moment that many of the hurts of the past were lifted from my heart regarding the "yesterdays". Thank God!

Then Sunday evening, Glenda and I were blessed to minister with Pastors Larry and Judy Starnes of the Oasis Christian Center in Paducah. We always feel welcome with the Starnes' and the people that make up that fellowship. After the service, the Starnes' invited us to join them for fellowship. We sat and visited, remembering... Jason Brand and Brian Shelton had joined us there. These young men represented the past and the future of what GOd desires to accomplish in the days to come in Western Kentucky, no doubt.

I see in Pastor Starnes many of the attributes that were birthed in his heart during the years that he had sat under my father's ministry. Others have had a great influence, but much of the foundation was laid during those years at FGT. It was just part of the greater plan that God has designed for that great city.

It was 22 years ago, today that my family and I took my father for his last road trip to a small cemetery near Crossville, Illinois. As we gathered there on the hillside, it had begun to snow. It was a painful day for all of us. But to me, it was the most painful day of my life. As I carried that casket along with my two sons, and my brother-in-law, Jim Baldwin, I realized that I had lost my father, my mentor, my confidante, as well as the dream of what could have been, and was, at least for me, the loss of what represented my future. But again, my view of the vision is small compared to the greater vision of an Eternal God.

Today, a dear faithful, friend will be taken to a small cemetery. His life of 98 years has affected the lives of hundreds, even thousands of young people. He spent most of his years serving people in Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennesse. He and his wife established many young preachers with love and encouragement. Today, the Milton family mourn, but Bro. Floyd and Sister Eulah rejoice together. We will miss him, as we have missed her.

Yes, the I woke up long before the alarm this morning...REMEMBERING!

I remember the last conversation that I had with my dad, in the hospital, on Monday, December 14, 1987, moments before he slipped into a coma. He said, "Son, remember that God has a place for you in His master plan that no one can alter, except you! Carry on in what God has called you to do!" In less than 20 minutes, he slipped into a coma, and at 5 pm, Dad left this life.

So, if you are wondering what I am doing, I'm pressing on! Forty four years ago, I began a walk with God, preaching my first message at a Tuesday night service lead by Irene Harper. Sunday night, I preached the most recent message in my career at a church whose pastor is the son-in-law and daughter of Irene Harper. The best is yet to come!

November, a time to be thankful!

2009-11-13T13:29:00.004-06:00

My son, Shane, and I drove across the Wabash and down to Evansville, and now I am sitting at Borders sipping on a strawberry Fruitkula. As I sit here looking out at the beautiful fall afternoon, I am reminded of the this great and beautiful picture painted by our awesome creator.

So many of us are weighted down with the cares of this life and with the current events of the day, the political climate, and every one looking about themselves wondering what is next, it is now time for us to stop and begin to return to the God of our fathers, who yet remains to be Fiathful and True!

While I am not where I want to be, doing what I long to do, I walk in such blessing that it is simply amazing! Where does one begin to recognize the many blessings of life that we enjoy? It would be hard to enumerate them all!

Johnson Oatman, Jr penned these powerful words in an old hymn of the church:

"When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,Count your many blessings, name them one by one,And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,Count your blessings, see what God hath done!Count your blessings, name them one by one,And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,And you will keep singing as the days go by.

When you look at others with their lands and gold,Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buyYour reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,Do not be disheartened, God is over all;Count your many blessings, angels will attend,Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God hath done!

Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done!"

Make it a habit! Start it today! Don't wait until later! BE THANKFUL!

Keep the Faith!

Carry On!

2009-08-07T14:58:00.004-05:00

On Friday, August 7, 1970, I was blessed to be united in marriage with Glenda Kaye Parnell. Glenda was the daughter of Reverend D.L. and Edna Parnell. She had spent the past 5 years in evangelism traveling with her parents. She is the mother of three precious children, Shane, Tanja, and Jimmy, and the grandmother of nine beautiful grandchildren, Alex, Nick, Jaxson, Jake, Juliet, Chris, Tripp, Johnny, and Madellyn. She is a talented musician, and an anointed handmaiden of the Lord. She has been faithful to me throughout these years, assisting me, encouraging me, and loving me! I could never imagine life without her. I love her today more than I could have ever thought on that hot August evening in Paducah, KY!

Babe, you still light up my life! Thank you for 39 years!

I Can't Believe It Has Been So Long!

2009-08-03T09:08:00.002-05:00

It has been so long since I have posted here, I had almost forgotten how to do it! But this week is a great week for me.

Thirty nine years ago this evening, I left a revival in McAlister, OK to return to Paducah, KY to marry my beautiful wife! I was traveling with D.L and Edna Parnell, and with Glenda, conducting tent revivals during the summer of 1970. Glenda and I left after church on Monday evening, driving to Paducah. It was a memorable journey. Then on Friday evening, Glenda became my wife! WWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWW! What a difference she made in my life!

Thirty nine years, three children, nine grandchildren later, I love her more today than I did then! She is the sunshine of my heart!

Great Weekend!

2009-02-16T16:54:00.002-06:00

I was at the Oasis Christian Center in my home town this past week end. It was great to share with people many of which I have known for nearly 50 years. I realize that you are wondering how I could have known them that long considering I am much younger that that ( LOL), but in reality, it is true!

I am so excited to see what God is doing among the Body of Christ.

I am still waiting rather impatiently for my car to be repaired. It has been in the shop for repairs since January 30! The service department has failed to get it done for whatever reason. I have become very frustrated. Surely they will get it done tomorrow. What is that saying, "Tomorrow never comes!" It has almost been true regarding this matter. I do not recommend Ford Explorer. You can search the web and find the reasons, just search for transmission problems. I only wish someone had told me prior to my purchase!

The ice storm in Western Kentucky was devastating to the region. Many tress have been destroyed and damaged. As I drove through Paducah, it was heart wrenching to seen the mighty trees that have fallen or broken under the power of the storm. But, it will be restored. It will take a lifetime to restore some of the devastation.

This past week has been a week of birthdays for our family. Alex, Nick and Chris have all had birthdays! HAPPY BIRTHDAY! They are awesome.

Keep the Faith!

CARRY ON!

The Snow is melting....

2009-02-07T09:01:00.006-06:00

After nearly 2 weeks of the icky white stuff, we are having a few warmer days that is melting the ice and snow! It is great to see snow, but I prefer it in pictures or on the TV. Anyway, thank God we did not suffer the ice that Western Ky endured during this recent storm.

More bad news about the "Exploder". Couldn't repair the transmission. Must be replaced to the tune of more than $3 grand installed. Unfortunatley for me, the service that I paid for transmission service, was not performed correctly. In fact, it appears from the fluid that it had never been changed. Be sure to retain the reciepts for such things. Unfortunatley, I did not, and now have nothing to go back to the firm that serviced my vehicle. Such major service items need to be performed by dealer for documentation.

This is not a whiney! Just a statement of what is happening right now.

Actually, tomorrow is a day of celebration. It seems that Nick Whetstone is aging! Next thing you know, he will be getting married. Nick will be 14 on the 8th! He is a.... (what was it, Nick, that you wanted me to say?) O yes, awesome creation! No doubt! Happy Birthday, Nick!

When is the cake gonna be ready?

By the way, if you wanna send a card: Nick Whetstone, 410 Easy Street, Mt Carmel, IL 62863. Make all checks out to Pappaw Whetstone, and you spell the word "thousand". LOL!!!!!!

GLENDA had an awesome week this past week at the store! I am so proud of her! She is a faithful worker!

Pray for Pastor John Brady's 3 year old granddaughter, who was diagnosed with a serious malformation this past week. It affects her ability to communicate, so they are teaching her sign language to communicate. Pastor John is in Minot, ND and is pastor of First Assembly of God.

Also, pray for Sophie, our faithful canine companion for the past 9 years. She has been ill the past two days. Don't laugh at me praying for a dog. I learned to pray for my pets early in life and have had significant healings to my faithful friends.

Gonna run! Have a blessed week end!

Keep the Faith!

CARRY ON!

BRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!

2009-02-03T22:31:00.004-06:00

It's cold outside! It is near the teens with high winds! We are staying warm on the prairie! What a week! I found out last week that the tranny in the Explorer is needing assistance! What a deal! It has 172,000 miles on it now and I guess it decided that it needs some attention! We are believing for the favor of the Lord to help us get it going again. It always seems to break down when we are struggling to stay afloat! The repair bill is overwhelming but God has been so faithful to us and we are looking forward to His provision during this year!

It has been a very rough week for some of our friends in the Western KY region due to the heavy ice and snow that came last week. Some of our family has been without power for several days, friends have had to evacuate due to the damage that was caused by the storm. I talked with my niece who lives in McCracken County, and she told me about the needs of that area! I also spoke with a pastor friend who has been without power at his home since last Tuesday evening. He indicated that repairs would not come to his location for several more days, maybe even weeks!

I am so blessed! Thank God for his provision.

After 14 long months....

2009-01-18T09:42:00.004-06:00

Jimmy has arrived on American soil, headed home to Texas, to see his family. He has been serving in Iraq since November 2007. Lindsey just called to let us know that he had called from Maine, and will be arriving later today at Fort Hood, TX, where he is stationed.

God has kept him safe again!!!! A few months ago, some of the men in Jimmy's team were facing a difficult mission and some of them were struggling with the uncertainty of the task. Jimmy confidently told them, "Stay close to me! My Mom and Dad are praying and my Mom told me that she was praying for God to put me in a bubble of protection. Stay close to me and you can be in it, too!" Thank God for the provision of safety for all our troops that are in harm's way.

It will be several weeks before we will be able to go see Jimmy due to work and financial constraints, but just to know that he is back in the States is awesome!

Please remember to pray for our troops. It is vital to their well being and ultimately ours as well. It is the sacrifice of our troops that has kept our nation more safe that it would have been without it!

Jimmy, we are glad that you are almost home!!!!!

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON!

Joy ........

2008-12-23T11:20:00.003-06:00

I was sitting in the favorite chair, when the phone rang! The voice on the other end was excited. And the news that was spoken into Glenda's ear caused her to exclaim with joy. Last year at this time, we were struggling with the fact that our son, Jimmy, had deployed prior to Thanksgiving to Iraq for a 15 month deployment. But the news came last night! Jimmy will be leaving Iraq on 6 Jan to come home to his family!

It was just this week that Jaxson told his mom, "I have a new way of singing, 'All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth' . It went like this, 'All I want for Christmas is for my dad to come home...' I can imagine the excitement that those precious children have as they prepare for Jimmy's arrival in a few days. Just think, They will have Christmas in December, and another "Christmas" in January!

We are looking forward to seeing Jimmy and the family sometime soon. Jimmy called earlier this week and indicated that he would be home soon.

This is a season for families to come together and celebrate the GREATEST GIFT EVER GIVEN, the coming of Jesus into this world to fulfill the Old Testament prophecy that a savior would come. Jesus came, as promised! And He is still coming to those who will believe.

As the Whetstone's gather this week, we are going to enjoy our precious grandchildren. Alex, Nick, Jacob, Christopher, Tripp, and Madellyn are here with us. Shane and Diane, Tanja and Rob, and Mother will sit down and enjoy the children as they celebrate. They will celebrate by opening gifts and playing. What a blessing! Then in January or February, we will do it again with Jimmy and Lindsey, Jaxson, Juliet, and Johnny! As my old friend, Charlie would say, "You've got it made!" I didn't realize that Charlie was such a great prophet! I've got it made! It is not the wealth of this world that satisfys. It is the warmth of our heart as we celebrate Jesus with those whom we love!

Glenda and I will celebrate together the joy of being together with our Family! We are so blessed!

MERRY CHRISTMAS to all of you! And a happy NEW YEAR!

CARRY ON!!!

Ever get tired......

2008-11-15T20:11:00.004-06:00

I'm not talking about tired after a long day's work, or a stressful week. Some time ago I heard a story about a preacher that went for an interview with a pulpit committee. After a lengthy interview, one 'of the committee asked the preacher why he had left his last assignment. His response was, "It was due to illness and fatigue." Someone slipped away to the phone and called the last pulpit chairman and asked why had the Pastor left. Their response was, "We were sick and tired of him!"

The scripture tells of more than one incidence where there was frustration in the hearts of great men. One was seen sitting under a tree moaning about his plight, while God was actively sending him fresh food for his enjoyment! God had to remind him that he was not alone. Another man of God, in his frustration, disobeyed the Lord by smiting the rock when he was told to speak to the rock. That incident cost Moses the opportunity to enter into the Land of Promise.

We all face times of discouragement and personal anguish. Loneliness is not a joyous place. But we must realize that we are never alone. We are not forsaken.

I remember the words of a friend that passed away a few months ago, who often told me, "You got it made!" We always laughed about that statement. But really it is the truth! We who walk in the fellowship of the Lord have a destiny that will lead us into glorious victory! If we walk with the Lord, He has never had a failure!

In these recent days, we all have struggled with the financial crisis that our nation is faced with at this time. Some of my friends have lost $1,000s of dollars in the markets. It would be easy for them to become disillusioned. But one of those friends told me that through this crisis, he has learned to cry out to the Lord for wisdom and peace. And the awesome thing about it is that peace has come to his heart.

David said in the Old Testament, that while in his distress, he cried unto the Lord and the Lord heard him. That is a secret to facing the uncertainty of life. TRUST IN THE LORD! He will not fail you! A dear missionary friend spoke at a church where I was pastor and the conclusion of his message to us was to PLOD ON! So...... Here we go, plodding on! And on! And on!

Now go to bed, and get some rest! The Lord has sent his angels to watch over you and all that you have! He will sustain you!

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON

Just a note to let you know...

2008-11-11T18:00:00.002-06:00

We are still around! It has been a very busy season. We are working around the clock it seems. Thank God the price of fuel has gone down!

We are faced with the choice as a result of last Tuesday's election to do the right thing regarding our new president-elect. I assure you that I did not support the election of Mr Obama. There are many reasons why, his stance on Israel, his views on abortion, his postion on marriage being between a man and a woman are among the many. But I am not writing to stir the pot concerning the election.

We are instructed by the Word of God that we are to pray for those in authority. My son, Pastor Shane, reminded us of this in the service this past week. I was reminded of the sermon that I preached right after the election of Bill Clinton. It was based on the life of Daniel, who served in several administrations, all of them which did not adhere to Daniel's values and beliefs. However the scripture speaks of Daniel as being a man of an excellent spirit. That is how I want to be known.

I commit to pray for Mr. Obama. I want him to be a successful president, and not a failure. I want him to lead our nation in a positive manner. It will require the leadership of our Father to quide his steps and fill him with wisdom. Let me challenge you to join the commitment to pray for this administration more than any that has preceeded.

HE, our Father, can do it!

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON!

Your Faith....

2008-09-18T08:39:00.004-05:00

Faith is the substance of things hoped for and evidence of things not seen. We are so prone to place faith as a hard thing to manifest. But in many situations, Jesus reacted to "your faith".

God is not a creator that holds back on his promises to see just how high we will jump or how many rivers we will swim in order to recieve his blessings. That is just not in the character and nature of God. It is the "father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom". He wants to shower us with the blessing of his favor!

A little girl came to a service recently, and after the service came to the evangelist and said, "My best friend is blind and tomorrow I am going to bring her to church so that you can pray for her. I know that when you pray for her, she will be able to see". There is nothing like the faith of a child, and the pressure was on to not let this child down, so the evangelist spent the night and day in prayer for the anointing of God to bring a deliverance for this child. When the service time came the little girl and her friend was sitting on the front seat. At the conclusion of the message that evening, the little girl brought her friend up for prayer. The evangelist prayed a simple prayer, and the child was totally healed! How did it happen? The faith of a little girl that believed that her Father God was all that He declared Himself to be! " I am the Lord that healeth thee!" was more than just a passing statement. It is a TRUTH of who God is!

Reach out to Him in faith today! You have the faith to believe. God instilled it in your heart. Rise up and believe. All things are possible to them that believe

Keep the Faith!

CARRY ON!

SEPTEMBER is half gone!

2008-09-15T16:03:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it, September is half gone and it will soon be a year since I left the city and moved to the country! I miss the city. But then, I missed that abcessed tooth, too!

Glenda and I are as busy as a flea at the humane society! A priority has been football this fall. We have three grandsons that are actively engaged in football. We try to make all of the games. What a joy to see the passion of these great boys as they condition themselves as athletes. They are each very intense. We are so proud of them!

Each of our grandkids are important to us! We only have 9! They range in age from 15 to 4 months! Today I went by to see Madelyn. She was in a very pleasant mood, and while I talked to her she began to giggle. I was beaming! Then I realized that she was probably thinking "This is the funniest face I have ever seen!"

I just returned from Eastern Georgia where I was the guest speaker at Grace Community Fellowship in Thomson, GA. We had a great time together celebrating their 5th Anniversary! Congratulations to Richard and Jennifer Kitchens!

The miles are stacking up on the road with me. I never thought I'd get weary of driving, but sometimes I just look forward to stopping and resting! Wednesday was one of those days. I drove 980 miles that day! I could hardly stand when I got back to the farm.

Upcoming services are scheduled for Calvary Pentecostal Church at Sebree, KY and at the Proctor Community Church in Proctor, OK . Please be sure to pray for these events that they will result in a harvest of spiritual benefits.

Glenda's brother Jerry is back in the hospital in Nashville in very guarded condition. Please remember him in your prayers. I am very concerned about him. It was only the grace of God that he survived the last episode. God is so faithful.

I would loke for you to pray for Glenda and me. We are faced with a great deal of issues most of which are surrounded by financial pressure. It has been touch and go for us this past year. But as I mentioned, God is faithful!

I appreciate those of you who check the blog and respond!

Keep the Faith!

CARRY ON!

I can't believe that it has been this long!

2008-08-01T19:03:00.002-05:00

Just to update, Jerry is at home and recovering. There are still some issues concerning his health due to the ordeal, but he is at home!

The grandkids from Texas are in town, along with the rest of the clan! We are delighted that they are going to all be together for a few days. Maybe I'll get a few new pictures for the blog!

This has been a very busy week for me. I have driven nearly three thousand miles since last Friday afternoon. That is very tiring, I assure you. But it sure is nice to have the opportunity to work.

There are several events upcoming that I will be sharing as they occur in the various areas where Glenda and I will be involved in ministry. We are looking forward to those opportunities with great joy.

Don't forget us! And if you will, send me a note if you are watching this site. I will try to do better!!!!

Keep the Faith!!

Carry ON!

We need you to pray...

2008-06-25T14:57:00.002-05:00

Jerry Parnell, Glenda's brother, is in the Baptist Hospital in Nashville, TN. He was discovered Sunday morning at 6 a.m. in an apparent coma. He was taken by ambulance to a local hospital and then flown to the hospital here in Nashville. While he has wakened, there is no response to commands, and only a very limited sign of him being aware of anything or anyone. He is in the MICU and under watchful care. The test results indicated nothing of any significance. He has had brain scan, EEG, EKG, and other related and normal tests for someone in this condition.

The neuroligist has indicated that nothing shows up in the tests indicating any impairment. However, he is non responsive. They are working diligently to bring him out of this condition.

Glenda and I have been here since Sunday afternoon. Edna arrived here Sunday night. Jerry's girlfriend and children have been here. Glenda and I plan to leave this evening after the 5 pm visit. I am speaking at the Gathering this Thursday evening at Jacob's Well in Mt Carmel, and Glenda is needing to get back to the store thaqt she manages in Mt Carmel. Glenda is returning here on Saturday.

We need your prayers for a miracle for Jerry. As you are aware, Glenda's older brother, David, passed away on May 30. Glenda and Miss Edna, her mother, are struggling with these events as you can imagine. They are needing our continued prayerful support.

To those of you who are just now hearing about this, please accept my apology for not contacting you sooner. We have been here in this struggle for all of this time and I have only had access to my blackberry to send emails. I am now on my computer where I can access more of you. Thank you for praying! I am determined to see the hand of the Lord deliver Jerry.

Blessings to you!

GOD IS FAITHFUL!

CARRY ON!

A Note of Gratitude

2008-06-09T18:05:00.003-05:00

Thanks to all of you who contacted us as we mourned the passing of Glenda's brother, David. We have recieved calls, cards, and encouraging words as we moved through these past few days. It is in times like these that we realize who our friends are and we have learned to depend upon the prayers and support of these precious people.

Special thanks to Miss Kelly for taking care of our lil' Miss Sophie for us while we were away.

David passed away after a lengthy illness on Friday, May 30. I officiated at the memorial service held on Tuesday, June 3 at the Green Hill Funeral Chapel. The service was precious as we sang and shared music. David had spend a lifetime playing music in the secular country music industry. He is survived by his children, brothers, sister and mother. He will be missed by us all.

It was a good thing to know that David had asked the Lord to come into his life some weeks ago and felt that he was prepared to face the Lord. Isn't God's grace marvelous?

Continue to remember my mother-in-law. She had been his care provider for several years. She struggles with his passing.

We love you and pray for you to walk in victory.

CARRY ON!

HEEEEEEEEERRRRS, Miss Madellyn

2008-05-30T16:38:00.002-05:00

I know that everyone is waiting with baited breath for the news of our newest arrival! Madellyn Ruth Bingham arrived on Tuesday afternoon just three days ahead of the scheduled day of arrival. Tanja and Rob, Alex and Tripp are all doing well!

So is MiMi!

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON!

The Phone Rang ......

2008-05-30T13:06:00.002-05:00

It was Glenda. She was telling me that her brother David was very critical and in a coma. Dr. Cook says that time will be short. The ammonia levels are extremely high, he has had several seizures during the night, and he was having heart attacks as she spoke. Family are getting plans together to head for Tulsa. We need your prayers.

David has suffered for several years from Hepatitis C. He has faced death several times and always was triumphant. Who knows when the time will come for.....

It is very important that we make all the necessary arrangements here on earth, but not only here, to make certain that our hearts are ready to meet our Lord.

Keep the faith...

CARRY ON!

Memorial Day with the family

2008-05-23T23:12:00.004-05:00

We gathered at the farm for a wonderful day with family and friends, building precious memories that will linger for years to come. Shane, Diane, Nick, Jake, Chris, Beverly Higgins, Tanja, Rob, Alex, Tripp, my mother, Uncle Louis, Aunt Elizabeth, Linda, Uncle Buck, Donna, Tony, and the beautiful Miss Brittany all were there for food, fellowship and fun! Jake, Chris, Tripp and Alex played ball. Tripp rode the little tractor with Papaw! He was so excited! Shane, Alex and Brittany worked on guitar skills and played a few tunes for us. It was a most enjoyable day. We are sorry that all of our friends could not come and be a part of the day, but distance is so often an enemy!

Memories are created at times like these. We reminesced, told funny stories, and ate. And ate. Did I mention that we ate? I cooked burgers and dogs! But Glenda and mom fixed all kinds of goodies, from Glenda's trademark baked beans, to cheesecake with fresh strawberries. It was just the kind of day that makes you feel like you want to do it again!

Next year, maybe you can come and be a part of this time of togetherness with us!

I can hear it now, Charlie would say, 'You got it made!' And ya know....he'd be right!!

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON!

A Memorial....

2008-05-22T11:21:00.003-05:00

I sat and listened to the preacher preach a few weeks ago. It was a Wedensday evening revival meeting service. I really hadn't expected to hear from the Lord when I went to this revival. I just went to be going. But suddenly, the message took a turn. It was a message about the struggles that we find ourselves involved in and the plan that God has for our lives when we go through the heavy trial.

The children of Israel had come again to the crossing of the Jordan. It was now time to pass this obstacle. The priests had already stepped into the river and God had parted the water for the people of God to pass through. God spoke to Joshua and told him to have a member of every tribe to take a stone from the river and use it to build a memorial. I had always visualized a pile of stones, looking somewhat like a pile of rip-rap alongside the river. But this wordsmith drew a picture that is still vivid in my mind. These were not small stones, but massive stones that were used to build walls. They were quite heavy as they labored to get them out of the river. It seemed that the memorial was not going to be placed until they reached the place where they were going to camp for the night. It was not to be a pile of rocks along the river bank. And it wasn't going to be easy to carry those stones to the site of the camp. But they struggled under the load with great difficulty. It was backbreaking to these men as they labored to carry the stone that they had harvested toward the site of the memorial. Finally they reached the place and lay the stone aside.

It would be years later that they would return to remember the struggle that they had suffered in order to recieve the promise of the Father.

What is the struggle that you are faced with today? I have a few.... And sometimes it seems that there is no end to the struggle. But in the words of a song penned by Andrae Crouch, "our trials only come to make me strong!" There is a victory just over the horizon!

A few days ago, I was driving into town to check the mail to see if there was good news. As I turned the corner just down the road from our home, I began to cry and lament. "God, just where are you? I just need to know that you are still there!" Suddenly the phone rang. I started just to let it go to voicemail because I was in my own world of despair. But instead , I answered. There was a young lady that was going through her own struggles in life on the other end. She didn't mention her struggles to me that day. She simply said, "Pastor, the Lord spoke to me this morning and told me to tell you that "the days that are ahead will be more blessed that the days of your past. Don't allow this discouragement to get on top of you!" I began to weep! It was difficult to be transparent to this little gal that had troubles that far outweighted my own. But through my tears, I told her how she had been a blessing to act in obedience.

Well, the check that "is in the mail" still hasn't arrived, and I sure need the money, but God is so faithful to send men and women of God to speak a word of encouragement just in time!

It is another place of memorial! I stopped on the way to town today, and placed a stone along the side of the road. It won't mean anything to anyone else, but I will remember.....

"This is another place where God spoke to me...."

"And He walks with me and He talks with me, And He tells me I am His Own..."

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON!

Jimmy made it home...

2008-05-20T13:30:00.002-05:00

I appreciate the continual prayers for my son, Jimmy who is stationed in IRAQ. He is home for a few days of R&R. I know that his family are enjoying having the Sarg home!

I just returned from a trip to the OK/TX state line on I-40. during the trip, I passed the location of the accident that claimed the life of Dottie Rambo on Mother's Day morning. Glenda and I join the millions who have been blessed by the unique and prolific talent of this great lady. We sing her songs, and mourn her passing. She will be missed greatly by the body of Christ.

My good friend, Pastor Greg, shares the same problem I have in being regular with the blog. But I will continue to do better, I hope!

Another member of Jacob's Well has been healed! Last night Billie Terry walked without assistance at the great revival in Lakeland, FL. What a powerful outpouring! God is still doing the miraculous.!

Carry ON!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!

2008-05-13T09:32:00.005-05:00

Today is Glenda's birthday. She is ____ years old today! And as beautiful as ever! She is the best thing that has ever happened to me. She is such a woman of God, full of character and strength. I have been blessed to have been joined with her for all these years.

Glenda is a prayer warrior. I have always enjoyed seeing her in action when the enemy has thrown "stuff" in our path. She immediately begins a warfare with the enemy. Recently, while we were facing some major situations, I walked in to find her on her face in the floor of our home, travailing. I jus stopped and listened as she wrestled in the spirit. Then came the breakthrough! WOW! Satan shivers when this woman focuses on touching the Master!

And to hear her sing the song of the Lord early in the morning.... What a blessing as she worships early in the morning while preparing for work. What a precious heritage our children have.

Her children stand and bless her; so does her husband. He praises her with these words: "There are many fine women in the world, but you are the best of them all!" Prov 31:27-29TLB

Happy Birthday, Glenda!!!!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T16:31:00.002-05:00

We are celebrating Mother's Day with our family today. This is the first time that we have had the opportunity in seveal years to spend Mother's Day with our children. It is an awesome day.

Jimmy is still in Iraq, but will be leaving for R&R on Tuesday and will arrive in Texas on Thursday evening if all goes well. Unfortunately, we will be unable to see him since the children are in school and we cannot make the journey due to work schedules. I am grateful that he is getting to spend 18 days with his family.

I hope that all is well with you and your family and that you have enjoyed the day with your family as well.

By the way.... Keep the faith!

CARRY ON!

A Week Ago....

2008-05-03T12:37:00.002-05:00

This has been a very busy couple of weeks for me. Business has picked up a bit, and I am grateful. Last Wednesday, while sitting alongside the interstate near waiting for an associate near Ashland, Ky, I received a call from some of our dearest friends in Virginia. They were in a crisis and needed prayer. Their son, Scott, was enroute to the Potomac Hospital in Woodbridge, VA by ambulance. In a few minutes they called again, to tell me the news that Scott had arrived at the hospital and within the ten minutes between calls, he had suffered a massive heart attack and went to be with the Lord. This was very shocking to everyone. Of course, the Simmons' were devastated.

As I sat there in the car, the words of the psalmist came to me: "In my distress, I cried unto the Lord and He heard me!" My mind raced back to the first time that I had met Scott. He was in a very difficult situation. He was almost at the bottom. I remember the day that Scott finally, with great sincerity, called upon the Lord, yielding his life to the Master. It was just over two years ago. Scott's life was never the same again.

I was asked to officiate at the services for my friend. It was a very sweet time as more people than the chapel could hold, packed into the seats to remember Scott. It was a moving service as his friend Monty came to the podium and gave a tribute that brought tears to everyone's eyes. I ministered a message from Luke 15 concerning the father's love for the prodigal. What a moment as several have called to ask the Lord to come into their lives.

Scott was a truck driver for Stephens Transport, Inc. He was in attendance every Sunday morning for the sermon at the church where I pastored by means of cellular phone. Every week, a cell phone was placed near the sound speaker so that he could participate in the service wherever he was. He was interested in the scripture and would listen by the hour to the scripture on tape, often calling to ask for my interpretation of the passage to which he had listened.

Glenda and I have often questioned God's purpose regarding our ministry in Virginia. Last Sunday, I said 'so long' to one who returned to the Father while I was pastoring in Virginia. He had run the race and had run it well! It could well be the reason that God sent me to Virginia. I was grateful that I had been a part of God's design.

Dear friend, be not weary in doing well, for you will reap a harvest for the seed that you sow!

Please keep Debbie, Thelma, Bill, and Rita in your prayers as they pass through these difficult days!

CARRY ON!!!!!

This is the day....

2008-04-10T13:44:00.002-05:00

I am excited about the things that the Lord is doing among those who are passionately seeking His Face! We are seeing healings in each of our services, bondages broken, addictions cast out, and joy infused!

Isn't this what it is all about? The scripture is very plain when it declares that the "joy of the Lord is our strength!" This past few months has been a stretch for Glenda and me, but it is awesome to rest in the knowledge that the Lord is our strength.

Someone wrote and asked what it was that we were doing with ourselves nowadays. Several have inquired as to whether we are retired! NOT HARDLY!!!! We are just in transition into the next phase of our ministry.

Glenda is the manager of a wireless phone store here in our area. She is working a lot of hours trying to get things up to speed. The company that she went to work for has recently been bought out by a larger company, so there have been transitional issues with that area of her life as well as on a personal level. Things are beginning to level out and soon it will be a typical work week for her.

I am still working to get a small business off the ground. The industry I am involved with is somewhat difficult to infiltrate, but I am confident that it will pay off someday soon! In the meantime, I am taking advantage of the opportunity to seek the Lord, work as much as I can get the opportunity, and minister as the doors open. Some days ago, I was seeking the Lord and telling Him about all my situations, and He reminded me that He had not failed to meet our needs in the 37 years that we have been married, and this was not going to be the year that He failed to meet them.

A man of God recently spoke a Word to me: "This season of your ministry will be greater that the seasons of the past! Plod ON!" What an encouraging word from the Lord. Each month it seems that we are falling behind financially, but God has promised! And He always keeps His word!

This week end, Glenda and I will be ministering in Kentucky for Sunday AM and PM. I feel that God has a special word for the pastor and the congregation. Please remember to pray for us as we travel in ministry that we will hear from the Lord for each of the ministries that we will touch, that we will be the vessels that God will use to encourage.

For many years, I have tried to be an encourager of the believer and especially those who have devoted their lives to ministry. The other day, I was feeling a bit downhearted. Then I recieved a call from a brother who was in a spiritual crisis. I began to speak hope and faith to him by the Word of the Lord. Suddenly, I realized that what I was speaking to my brother, was a word for me as well! I began to feel encouraged in the Lord. The circumstances have not yet changed, but the outlook is better than the downlook!

Look up, dear friend! When you look up, you are less likely to fall. When you look up, you are less likely to see the dirt! When you look up, you will see the blessings of His provision! So..... Look Up!

While walking down the street today, a man came up to me and stopped me. He shared a need, and we simply prayed together on the street. When we left, he shook hands with me and left a small cash offering in my hand. It was greatly needed and most appreciated! It was more than a monetary gift! It was a word of encouragement to me that God knows my needs. And one never knows when God will use one to meet the need of another... So Carry On and do the thing that God is speaking to you!

I look forward to your response to this blog each time I send it out! CARRY ON!

Powerful Prophetic Conference...

2008-03-30T15:39:00.002-05:00

I have just returned from Jonesboro, AR where I participated in a Prophetic and Apostolic conference at the Freedom Worship Center on Hasbrook Road. Watch this site for more information regarding this powerful week end.

Bishop Alva Wilson was the host and we were blessed beyond measure as the Lord manifested His presence in our midst.

HE LIVES!

2008-03-23T12:38:00.002-05:00

What a glorious thought that He ever liveth! It is our prayer for you that you be encouraged in the faith and that the grace of the risen Savior will be multiplied in your life.

I will be in Jonesboro, AR on Thursday and Friday of this week at a Re-Eagle Conference with Bishop Alva Wilson. I will be speaking in the Thursday evening session. I would ask that you pray for this retreat of Christian workers, that we will seen the manifestations of healing and deliverance!

Our son, Shane has returned from a successful mission trip to Guatemala. He was ill during the trip and had to come home early, but the power of the Lord was manifest in the services where he was before leaving and several healings and manifestations of the Holy Spirit were made known.

Please keep Glenda and me in your prayers for release of ministry and financial needs that somewhat are overwhelming us at this time. God is faithful who has promised. He always has met every need and will continue to do so!

We love each of you and look forward to hearing from you.

Keep the faith! CARRY ON!

Sorry about the delay!

2008-03-17T16:35:00.002-05:00

WOW! It has been a long time since I have had the chance to get online long enough to add to the blog! We do no have the capability to get online at the house, and while I do get emails on my blackberry, I have not been online long enough to catch up on the blog!

The picture at the right is the latest that I received of my youngest grandson. He is definitely growing! He is quite the personality. His older brother Jaxson and sister, Juliet, are doing well after a brief season of colds and flu like symptoms. Be sure to keep Jimmy and his family in prayer while Jimmy is in Iraq.

During the past weeks, Glenda and I have been blessed to conduct services in churches in the surrounding area. We have been blessed with testimonies of healing and deliverance. It is so exciting to have the opportunity to minister and see results in the altar. Please remember us in prayer as we continue to pursue the calling of the Lord that is upon our lives.

Yesterday was great as we had the opportunity to fill the pulpit for Jacob's Well, shere our oldest son, Shane, is pastor. Shane is in Guatemala on a missions journey this week. The altar was filled with hungry hearts seeking for the manifestation of the miraculous. We are believing the Word that came to us from the Lord that this year will be a season of the miraculous. Jesus declared that there would be signs that followed them who believe, and we have determined by the Spirit that this is the day for such miracles to happen among the hungry hearts of those who will receive.

If you would like for us to minister in your community, contact us by email at whetstone.r@gmail.com We would love to come and minister to you. This is a faith-based ministry reaching into communities and churches across this nation.

May the blessing of the Lord be upon you!

CARRY ON!

The Loss of a Friend

2008-02-20T08:51:00.002-06:00

During the years of my life, I have suffered the loss of people as a result of tragedy who were dear to me. I remember a dear friend who was killed in Vietnam in the late 60's, with whom I had enjoyed great fellowship. Another dear friend died in a tragic plane crash. So through the years I have learned that life continues. It is always painful to lose a friend.

Scripture teaches us that have a friend is good and in order to have friends, one must be friendly. I have learned that there some people connect in a moment of time and become life long friends.

There is a significant difference between a friend and an acquaintance. Through the years of my life I have become acquainted with thousands of people in my travels. Often I use the term, "I have a friend..." in reference to someone who I have had fellowship but really they are simply an acquaintance.

Recently I visited with a dear friend in Tennessee. We have been friends since we were in our teens. In recent years, we have not been able to get together, but the moment we met a few days ago, it was clear that the relationship of friendship was still there. We talked of things with one another that we could not rehearse with others. And we understood. He is afflicted with MS now and it was painful for me to see him sitting in a wheelchair. But it didn't change the love that we felt for one another. I know that I can count on him and he knows that whatever comes, I am here for him.

I have people that are very close to me that I share my joys, my dreams, my failures, and my heartaches. They listen because they are friends. They do not harshly judge me, they often tolerate me, I am sure. But they are always there for me. One thing you can count on from a friend is that they will be honest with you and treat you with the blessing of not guessing where they stand. Even when they disagree, they give you the privilege of being wrong without abandoning you.

I work hard at being a friend. I pray for my friends every day. I stand in the gap before the Lord, interceding for their needs. There are times that I disagree with my friends, but I work hard to not become disagreeable with them. In other words, I try to be a consistent in my relationship. I attempt to always be there for them in a crisis, either in person, or by phone, standing with them in the face of their situation without judgement, simply loyal to the individual.

This week, I lost a friend. I didn't lose this friend by death. This friend had been close to me, and vice versa. But I came to realize that this individual had walked away from me. It has broken my heart. I have wept, done personal inventory, questioned. But the fact remains....I have lost a friend. I will miss their fellowship. I will miss their laughter. I will miss their tears. I will always pray that somehow we can be restored.

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON

The Secret Place...

2008-02-15T10:00:00.003-06:00

It has finally warmed up to about 36 degrees today, and the ice is melting. I have placed my Explorer in the garage to have some repairs this week so I am spending some time catching up on rest, paperwork, and time with the Lord. The mechanic just informed me that he should have me going this evening or at the latest on Monday. They are having to rebuilt the rear end and replace the axles on the front as well.

During this week, I have met with several people, done some ministry, shared with pastors in this area what the Lord is doing in Glenda and me, and most importantly, finding the time to spend some intimate time with the Lord each morning at the church. WOW, what a blessing it is to sense the sweet presence of the Father as I sit at the keyboard and just worship.

Yesterday, I became lost in His presence for well over an hour as I worshipped. It was so refreshing to me. We live about 14 miles from the church, and often it is easy for me to decide that I can do this at home. But really, there is no place like coming into the House of Prayer to soak in the Presence of our Father God! I had figured that I had cried all my tears on Thursday, but found that there was another fountain this morning as I worshipped.

The hour that I set aside, has become two in many instances. It is better than Italian Cream Cake!

Please....take the time to spend in intimate worship with the Lord. It will renew your faith as you come into His presence.

I received an email from Jimmy, who is in IRAQ, this morning. He is having an issue with an apparent pinched nerve resulting in severe pain to his shoulder and thereby, difficulty in sleeping at night because of the pain. Would you join with Glenda and me to pray for this need? I would appreciate it very much.

We will be praying for you this week end in our services. I am bringing a printed copy of the names of all those who are responding to me either by email or through this blog into the service for prayer. If you have need for healing, deliverance, restoration, or any other need, please let us know. We want to stand with you in prayer for divine intervention in your situation.

So....... whatever you do....

Keep the faith!

CARRY ON

You can have a song....

2008-02-05T09:58:00.000-06:00

Scripture tells us that He gives us songs in the night! One of the most difficult things to do is to get through the night when you are unable to sleep. It seems that often the night is when our mind begins to play tricks upon us.

When you are struggling in the night, I encourage you to get out an old song book, put on a CD with worship music, simply serve notice on the enemy that you are going to praise the Lord anyhow!

I have often thought of the struggle that Leah went through knowing that her husband Jacob had not chosen her to be his bride. She was sure to have felt the rejection. But, she loved Jacob and bare children to him. The fourth son, she named Judah! Leah learned to praise the Lord anyhow!

No matter what you are facing, you can press through the darkest hour with praise. I have learned to praise Him when I feel like it, and to praise Him when I don't. I praised him Sunday for a beautiful day, and I praise Him today in the midst of a gloomy, rainy day! I praise Him when a new child is born, and praise Him when a loved one draws their past breath! Sing the song of praise!

Thanks to those who have responded recently and touched my heart with their words of encouragement. I praise God for you!

CARRY ON!

"Blessing after blessing keeps on following me...."

2008-02-04T19:07:00.000-06:00

Don't you just love the words to that old chorus of praise? Glenda and I went to the mall today just to look around and as we walked we saw someone who was a paraplegic. And we were able to walk unassisted for a couple of hours through the mall! I am so grateful for the blessings of the Lord.

A dear friend passed away this past week. Glenda and I will be doing the music and I will be officiating at the memorial service for this precious saint of God! This wonderful lady had spent many years serving alongside her husband to various South American nations. The stories that they shared with me always encouraged me to trust the Lord in all things. I was honored that their granddaughter asked us to participate in this homegoing celebration.

I have more that I would like to share, but will need to save it for another time, because I have run out of time today. But keep this in mind: God loves you more that the devil hates you! You are the blessed of the Lord. SO.....Keep the faith!

CARRY ON!

Miracles...

2008-01-30T14:00:00.000-06:00

This has been a powerful week with several significant testimonies of God's power of deliverance being manifest. This past Sunday afternoon, during the service here at Jacob's Well, Guest Speaker James Nesbit organized a Prayer Tunnel. Glenda and I were part of the team that ministered for the next 90 minutes to needs of those who came. There were several testimonies of those who received blessing. One young lady received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. A young boy named Noah gave his heart to the Lord. One man was overcome by the presence of the Lord and was slain in the Spirit for quite some time. His response to what the Lord had done was awesome. Several gathered around a prayer cloth for a child who was seriously ill in a local hospital. The doctor was concerned that this precious child may not survive her illness, but the Lord ministered deliverance to her and she came home from the hospital after having been hospitalized for several days. The doctor was amazed at the results!

Last evening, Glenda ministered in a Women's Meeting at Good Shepherd A/G in Evansville, IN. After teaching the word of the Lord, Glenda ministered to those present with awesome results of the manifestation of God's delivering power. It was a great evening even though the storm was raging outside.

Last week, during the conference in Toronto, God ministered to me in a very special manner, helping me to release several years of frustration, and the unforgiveness that had tormented me for some time. It was refreshing to walk in the freedom of the Lord as He used several people to minister to me. It was so exciting to have people who I had never known come to me and share with me words of strength and encouragement. Pastor Shane prayed for me on Tuesday evening and the Lord healed me of an injury that has caused a great deal of pain to me for over 12 years. There has been no pain since! PTL!

As I ministered to those people in the prayer line on Sunday, the gift of the word of knowledge and the gift of prophecy were stirred up and for the first time in several months, I had liberty to flow in the manifestation of the Gifts of the Spirit. The hunger of the people was astounding as we worshiped together.

I believe that we are on the move toward a greater anointing during 2008. I hope that you will be encouraged to allow the Holy Spirit to draw you to Himself and enable you to overcome the powers of the enemy. "Greater is He that is in you!"

Whatever you do, seek after Him with all of your heart, and allow your spirit to be more sensitive to Him during this year of new beginnings! We love you! We look forward to hearing from you from time to time. Be blessed!

CARRY ON!

This is the last day.....

2008-01-25T09:15:00.000-06:00

This is the last day of the Pastors and Leaders Conference here in Toronto. It has been awesome to rest in the arms of the Father for the past three days. The message of the TACF is to return people to the knowledge of the FATHER'S Love in a personal encounter. Many things happen here that may or may not be of interest to others, but the sense of the very fact that God loves me and despite all my failures and successes, I AM SIMPLY HIS CHILD!

Being a father to three great kids, has given me an insight into the father's love relationship. It is comforting to know that the father's love never ends! And it is not performance connected! HE purposes to love me!

As I write this, tears are running down my cheeks. It has been so long since I have felt of value to Him. He is beginning to restore the fire within my spirit to fulfill the ministry to which He has called me. The greatest responsibility that I have is to love the Father with all my heart and to surrender all to Him. Of course that entails the responsibility that I have to my wife and my family. But the fact remains that HE IS PRIMARY!

I encourage you to check out the TCAF website for resources that will help you to hear the heart of God concerning His Love toward you. John Arnott's teaching on forgiveness is powerful, and while it is , for the most part, things about which we have knowledge, it comes together to impact you deeply. http://www.tacf.org/Default.aspx
I love you and I have prayed over a long list of people this week that you would recieve the Father's love. Not just come to the Lord in a salvation experience, but experience the totality of the Father's love.

The real world is ahead, tomorrow. I will wait..., and bask in His arms today!

CARRY ON!

Signs, Wonders and Miracles....

2008-01-24T08:40:00.000-06:00

Today is the third day of this powerful conference at Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship. It has been awesome to sense the glory of the Lord during this week of renewal. Last night several, well over a hundred, were healed of back pain. Several gave testimony of the power of deliverance over injury issues of more than 20 years.

I have seen such miracles throughout my lifetime, but for the most part we do not see all the awesome miracles that God has made possible to and through the believer. It is my prayer that you will earnestly seek the Lord for an enduement of His majesty and power to ignite your faith to believe that it is the Father's good pleasure to give to you the kingdom and all of the benefits that are attached to sonship.

Don't allow doubt to steal from you what is your gift from God!

As you go through this day, I would like to ask that you pray for my son, Jimmy, who is IRAQ. He called me early this morning with the news that a dear friend of his from the Tulsa area was tragically killed in an auto accident on I-44 near Miami, OK. Also, the unit that Jimmy is connected to has drawn fire almost every day that they are out patrolling. The stress is overwhelming at times for him. i appreciate your continued prayer for him.

The music is starting and the presence of the Lord is already moving this morning, so I will get off of here and get plugged into what the Lord has for us today.

Be Blessed! CARRY ON!

TACF - Pastors and Leaders Conference

2008-01-23T08:48:00.000-06:00

My son, Pastor Shane, Tim Thacker, and I are sitting in the Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship in Toronto, Ontario taking in the Pastor's and Leader's Conference! It is always an awesome opportuntity to attend anything at TACF. This ministry is in it's 14th year of REVIVAL. Word's do not really express what is happening here at the conference. Yesterday's guest speaker was Bill Johnson from Redding, CA. Bill is pastoring a mighty move of the Lord in Redding. Thousands are recieving healing under an Open Heaven for the miraculous in Redding.

One of the highlights of the services here is the Praise and Worship. I have attached the web link on here for you to plug into what the Lord is doing here. There is internet access to these powerful meetings. If you can, go to the link and check it out. I will try to write more later, but it is now time for the morning service to begin. http://www.tacf.org/

Thanks to my friends in North Little Rock who have been such an encouragement to me through the past years, but especially today when I recieved an email from Pastor Greg's daughter. I was encouraged by her words of appreciation.

Also, thanks to a friend who sent me the gift last week to help me in my ability to communicate while driving. The device is very helpful and a blessing.

Blessings! And, by all means, CARRY ON!

We won!

2008-01-12T18:08:00.000-06:00

You should have been there! Both Jake and Chris played well in their respective basketball games. Jake is seven, and Chris is five and they both had basketball games today. What a joy to get to be a part of their lives as they are growing up.

This has been a busy week with trips to Bowling Green, KY, Chicago, IL, back home and then to Savannah, GA by way of Knoxville, TN. I was dragging when I got home yesterday. It is interesting to see the work come in.

I received a call from our dear friends, Charmie and Bernardo Salas. It was very good to hear from them. They are enjoying their new grandson, David Samuel, born in November. His parents, David and Bernadette have invited us to come and officiate in the dedication of this precious child. We are looking forward to coming to this great celebration in March. I am sure that we will have an opportunity to meet with many of our friends during the days that we get to be there in the area.

I have recently resigned from the denomination that I have been serving. It was a sad time for me as I wrote the letter to resign. I will miss my associates within the denomination, but feel confident that this is the best thing for us to do at this time. I hope that the church where we served most recently will soon have a new pastor and that the church will prosper under the leadership of the new pastor. I know that there are a good number of people that deserve strong leadership at the church there in Alexandria. I wish them good success.

Faithfulness is vital to the success of a believer. Scripture emphatically states that it is required of the Lord to be found faithful. Plug into a local church in the area where you are and be faithful. Faithfulness is more that just your attendance record. It is also indicated by your giving, your attitude toward God and your fellowman, and your family. I hope that you will find the joy of serving the Lord with a faithful heart.

Glenda and I appreciate your kindness to us as we embark on the transitional journey that is before us! Stay in touch.

Keep the Faith and CARRY ON!

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T00:53:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to you from the Whetstone's. This is a day of new beginning for everyone, but especially for Glenda and me. We are entering this year with an expectancy of the provision and blessing of the Lord.
I am in Southern Ohio preaching this week, and just got in from church. The service was great, and the presence of God was precious at the altar. As the people were praying, the song of the Lord begin to well up within me and for several minutes, I prophesied to this congregation. There was such a flow of the Holy Spirit touching the lives of those who were seeking the Lord. It was awesome as the Lord spoke of His love for this church and His purpose for them in this New Year.
It is our desire to hear good things are happening in your life as you progress into this year. Keep your eyes upon the Lord and draw near to Him like never before. He has promised that if we will, He will!
I believe Him!

Happy New Year!

Carry On!

Anticipation....

2007-12-28T15:21:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had a yearning for what is to come? I remember as a child looking forward to the opportunities to travel with my father. I remember a journey that we took when I was about 11 years old. My father was taking a trip to Mexico to check out a missions program. The anticipation was awesome as I awaited the day that we would leave. It seemed as though the time was forever passing for the day that we would go. But finally the day came! What a time I had.

It seems to me that this coming year is such a time as that was. There is such an awesome anticipation to see what it is that God desires to do in the coming days. I feel that God has spoken to me regarding an open heaven for the miraculous during 2008. Eight is the number of new beginnings. As Glenda and I have taken these steps into what some may feel is nothing, there is an assurance in our hearts that God will always perform His word in us.

You may be struggling with the issues of your life that are heavy and hard to bear. But remember this, God never leaves us out in the wilderness longer that it takes for our faith to reach out to the glorious future that He has designed for us.

Pastor Shane and I were visiting a few days ago, and we remembered a young man that crossed our paths a few years ago. He was all the time talking out his wilderness journey. He indicated that he was in the wilderness and was longing for the day that the wilderness experience would be over. Old Testament wilderness stories were 40 years. But New Testament wilderness was only 40 days. Let grace be manifest in your life. You may be in the wilderness, but the wilderness is only the place where God takes us to bring our focus back to Him! When we begin to refocus our eyes of faith toward what His plan is for us, we can soon leave the wilderness in triumph, with God Himself parting the waters for us!

Look forward to the exodus! Look foraward to the manifested plan of God that will come to pass for you as you surrender to him.

PRAISE GOD!

PRAISE GOD!

Hallelujah!

Carry On!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2007-12-25T20:33:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas to all of our wonderful friends. Glenda and I have had a wonderful day with our family today. We were able to talk with Jimmy in IRAQ. The Lord has been so good to us. This past week end, the vehicle behind Jimmy's hit an IED. Forturnately no one was seriously injured. We were so mindful that God is faithful to give His angels charge over us!

The day was awesome with our grandkids surrounding us with their laughter and their limitless joy. What an inspiration they are! My mother was able to spend the day with us as well. We were so excited to all be together for this day.

To our friends in Virginia, please know that we missed you during this season. We do appreciate all the cards that we received from those who expressed their love to us. This transition has left us somewhat at a loss, but God continues to show Himself faithful to us. We appreciate your prayers and some of you have blessed us with expressions of your friendship. I received a call last night from our dear friend, Carl Osborne and his wife, Anna. The doctor had only given Anna a few hours to live this past fall, but our Lord reached out with His tender hand and she is walking and enjoying this holiday season. We are so grateful for the grace of the Lord to this family. Our dear friends, the Salas' called today to share with us a Christmas greeting. They just received a bundle of joy from heaven in the form of David Samuel, a new grandson. We celebrate their joy! We received a package from some other friends that had special pictures made just before we left Virginia! And a dear friend sent us a care package filled with precious thoughts, and a large tin full of sugar cookies which are my favorite cookie! A card came with an love gift of money that was so timely! God is faithful. I could write on and on, but I think you can understand that we feel blessed at this season.

I look forward to a greater opportunity during this coming year. Eight is the number of new beginnings. Glenda and I are looking forward with great anticipation move into this new year!
We want to ask that you continue to pray for us and know that we are here for you if you need us.

Merry Christmas!

Carry On!

Traveling...

2007-12-21T17:45:00.000-06:00

This has been a very busy week. I left the house at 2:30 am on Tuesday and returned about midnight last night. It was a the first full week of my new enterprise. I left Troy, IL at 9:30 am on Tuesday, spent the night in Little Rock, AR, then on to Texarkana, TX. When I finished that load, I received a call to go to Fort Smith, AR and met a load to Kansas City. While that seemed to be a simple drive, we were mapped into Kansas, driving about 140 miles out of the way. It was a total drive of about 1800 miles in three days!

We are doing well, getting adjusted to our new environment somewhat. The family is gathering for Christmas and we are getting the plans made for a great time with them on Christmas day!

I hope that all is well with you and that you are going to have a great Christmas with all of those who are dear to you. Glenda and I want to let you know that all of you are in our prayers.

Merry Christmas!

Thank God, no snow!

2007-12-11T17:57:00.000-06:00

There is snow to the north and ice to the southwest according to the news! But it was 65 degrees here today!!!!!! No sun to speak of, but at least it was warm. We are such a blessed people!

I want to encourage you to celebrate the blessing of the season with a special time of remembering the goodness of our great Lord.

Today, I had the joy of meeting a man that has had a tremendous encounter with the Lord. He didn't simply make a decision; he had an encounter with the Lord. His life has totally been changed. Sometime soon I will share more about him with you, but I just wanted to let you know that God wants to have an encounter with you. Not just a drive-by kinda thing, but a real encounter with the Lord. Did you know that He thinks good thoughts about you? Are you aware that you are the center of His desire? Are you aware that there is never a time when you are totally alone?

That is why God in His infinite wisdom, sent His only begotten Son into this world to take upon Himself the form of a man, and to give Himself for your ransom! WOW! What a thought! This season is all about what is nearest to the heart of God: That men would be brought back to Himself!

JOY TO THE WORLD THE LORD IS COME!!!!

By the way, all of our grandkids will be with us this year for the holidays. We are so excited. We will miss having Jimmy with us this year for Christmas. But we will be praying for him about noon on Christmas day. Could I ask you to join with us as we pray for him on Christmas Day? And know this, we will also be praying for the peace of the Lord to be manifest in all of the lives those we have come to love throughout the years. We look forward to spending this time with our children!

We do not have internet service at our home. There is no provider in that area since we live in a very rural area. But we do get to check the emails from time to time. It is always so good to hear from you. Hopefully soon we will be able to get service.

So.......

Carry On!

Tis the season...

2007-12-05T10:46:00.000-06:00

Every year about this time, everyone gets focused on the secular approach to the Christmas season. The hustle bustle of shopping, the planning of social events, etc. It would be easy to forget the real meaning of the Christmas Season: "For unto you is born a savior..."

Glenda and I have spent so much time working through this transition, that we have suddenly realized that Christmas is around the next corner! Our Christmas cards are still packed away in a box that is elusive at this point. But we do want to say, Merry Christmas to everyone!

We are near two of our children, and the other is serving in Iraq. Five of our grandchildren are here in the area, and the other three are in Texas. We hope to spend Christmas with all of them, except Jimmy, who is unable to come having just been deployed. We will sing the songs, share the joy, exchange the gifts, eat the candy(!). But I just don't want to forget to celebrate the joy of sins forgiven, healing purchased, peace granted, and love manifested all because of the coming of Jesus Christ!

Keep your focus on Jesus! Let this be the best of the Christmas season in your family.

Please remember us as you pray that the effective door of ministry will be open to us as we navigate into the promising new year.

Blessings to you!

Carry On!

Some have inquired...

2007-12-03T19:54:00.000-06:00

Jimmy, our son, is in IRAQ serving our nation. We appreciate your prayers of support for him and his family. I want to place his address here for those who have inquired about sending him a Christmas greeting. I am sure that he would appreciate hearing from the states. His address is as follows:

SSG Whetstone, Jimmy R

L Troop 3/3 ACR

FOB Marez

APO AE 09334

Lindsey and the youngun's are staying by the stuff! If you want to send them a greeting, you can send it to the following address:

Lindsey Whetstone

902 Lynn Lane

Copperas Cove, TX 76522

Thanks for all you do for them and for our family.

Glenda and I are doing well. These past few weeks have been difficult as we have transitioned out of the pastorate in Virginia. But we are getting settled here and yesterday was a great day for us as for the first time in some time, we were able to effectively be used of the Lord in the manifestation of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. There is such liberty here at the church to flow with the Word of Knowledge, Word of Wisdom, and the Gift of Prophecy.

God especially touched Glenda as she ministered on Saturday evening. AS she prayed for the sick and infirmed, she indicated that she felt as if a hot rod of fire ran from her neck to the sole of her feet. She immediately felt the release of pain from her back, and is walking in that manifestation of healing yet today! It was awesome to see God using her in the Gifts of the Holy Spirit throughout this week end.

We appreciate the prayers of our friends during this time of our lives. We are anticipating the blessing of the Lord in our ventures of faith that lie ahead!

Blessings to you!

Carry On!

A long journey home...

2007-12-01T17:19:00.000-06:00

I just returned from western Florida where I attended a training class on Friday. This has been a very busy week and it seems that I have been in the car for the entire week! Come to think of it, I have been. I have driven or ridden over 2300 miles this week since Tuesday.

I want to ask that you pray for our friends, David and Bernadette. Bernadette gave birth to a new baby son on Monday evening. She is doing wonderful and so is the baby, However, David's father passed away this week. Keep David and his family in prayer as they plan for the memorial services this next week.

We are doing well, and are still trying to get settled. We appreciate your concern and prayers for us. Glenda still needs your prayers for the issue with her back.

Keep the faith and ....

Carry On!

BRRRRRRRRRR, it's cold!

2007-11-25T16:30:00.000-06:00

The winter has arrived here in the region! It was about 30 last night and today it is rainy here on the farm! But the Lord is good! We are still working on getting it all put away. Will there ever be an end to the boxes?

Glenda and I have had both our mothers present for the Thanksgiving celebration, It was a great day with our family. And today we were able to go to service at Jacob's Well for a great time of refreshing and impartation. We miss our friends in Virginia, but pray for them daily that the Lord will refresh them during this time of transition. We have even prayed for those who apparently were not our friends after all, that the Lord would bless them and cause His face to shine upon them!

Hopefully, after the first of the year, I will be announcing our future plans. Right now this is just a time of settling in and working through some of the ordeal that we have faced. Please remember us in your prayers during this season of time.

I am limited on time at the computer for the first time in many years due to a lack of an internet provider at the location where we live, but we are working on getting that changed soon. Until then, I will do my best to stay in touch.

The Lord reminded me that He is with me during the service this morning. Man, was I ever glad to hear that from Him. If I listened to the naysayers and those who devised their actions to discourage me, i would have given up long ago! But God is so faithful to remain near! Whatever you are facing today, remember that God is just waiting to reach out and touch you. We love you!

CARRY ON!

BOXES, BOXES Everywhere....

2007-11-17T10:47:00.001-06:00

We have arrived at our destination and are busily attempting to sort our stuff! Do we ever have the stuff!

It has been a very tiring week, but we are getting ready for the Thanksgiving holiday with our family next week. We will all be togethere sometime during the holiday except for Jimmy, who is in Kuwait on his way to IRAQ, and his precious family. We are so grateful for the prayers of everyone for Jimmy and his family during this deployment.

Jimmy has been in contact with Lindsey regularly, and we are regularly in contact with her. Though she is about 1000 miles away, we are attempting to remain in a position of support for her and the family.

Please remember to pray for Glenda and me as we pursue our destiny. Our focus remains on ministry while we are in this time of transition. Please remember the Lighthouse Worship Center in Alexandria as they move through this time of transition as well. We have given of ourselves to that ministry and want to see it flourish.

Blessings to each of you!

CARRY ON!

We have arrived..

2007-11-12T09:14:00.001-06:00

Glenda and I have arrived at our new location. We are getting ready to meet the truck and get started on unloading and getting set up. I appreciate all who have shown us their love and caompassion during this transition. Special thanks to the Simmons' who gave us a resting place for almost two weeks. Glenda and I are so grateful for their expression of love toward us.

Several have expressed their love toward us in several ways. We will be in touch with each of them in a more personal way as soon as I can get to the office boxes!!

Watch the blog for more information!

Carry On!

And they took it away..

2007-11-03T23:36:00.000-05:00

The driver came and took the truck away yesterday about 4 pm. It ended a long week of loading and I can assure you, I was glad to see them drive awat. However, there is a less exciting thought... Now we have to unload what we loaded and organize it all over again!

Thanks to those who came and shared their strong backs with us as we worked to get it all loaded. Your assistance was appreciated more than you will ever know. I was disappointed that I did not get a chance to say so long to many of those who I have served for the past nearly four years. But to those who came by to express your fellowship and love, we thank you for taking the time to show us that you really do care!

I drove to MTC today and plan to return Monday for our final week in the Capitol region.

It will be a very busy week with appointments every day with those who have asked to spend time with us before we leave the area. On some days we have more than one appointment. We will miss the area and these precious people.

Blessings to each of you.

CARRY ON!

We are loading...

2007-10-31T07:00:00.000-05:00

I have muscles that I never knew existed! We began the loading process yesterday at about 5 pm and worked until 9:30 loading our belongings. We will finish this evening, thanks to the help of Pastor Alex Lazo and the congregation of the Hispanic church, the Simmons family, and Dan Smith. We are so grateful for the support of these wonderful people as we step forward into the next phase of our lives. God is so faithful!
I am getting ready to shut down the internet provider that has served me for the time that I have lived here. So, I am trying to wrap up anything that needs to be done on the internet this morning. I will not have internet access for a few days.
Thank you for your prayerful support as we move forward!
Carry On!

Moving Day is Rapidly Approaching...

2007-10-26T20:57:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to pray for our son and his family, Jimmy, Lindsey, Jaxson, Juliet, and Johnny. Jimmy is scheduled to leave for Iraq on November 1. This will be his second tour into harm's way. Thank God for his safety.

If you haven't moved in a while, you need to get some experience at getting ready for a move. So come on over and we will give you some boxes, tape and a marking pen and put you to work!!!! We are working heard to meet the deadline for the arrival of the truck that arrives here on Tuesday.

Hopefully we will get it loaded and on its way by Thursday morning. Glenda and I appreciate the helping hands that have assisted us in packing. Bill, Thelma and Rita Simmons have given several hours to us to help in this process. Really, Glenda and I were so grateful that someone came to help. With the issues that Glenda has had with her back during the past several weeks, I don't think we could have accomplished as much as we have without their volunteering to help.

I will be driving the Motor Home to our new location on Friday of next week, hopefully. Bill has volunteered to help me by driving our car as well so that Glenda will not have to drive through after she has her last lumbar injection. We will return by Sunday evening. God has been so faithful during these days of transition.

We will miss the people that we have served for the past 3 years and 10 months, but look forward to the new opportunities that God will provide for us. We serve at the calling and pleasure of the Lord. I look forward to the next assignment.

Blessings to each of you!

CARRY ON!

Jimmy Leaving for Iraq

2007-10-24T10:16:00.000-05:00

Our son, Jimmy, leaves for Iraq for his second tour on November 1. Glenda and I joined with Tanja's family and Shane in Texas for a family time together last week end. It was a wonderful time of togetherness. I appreciate all who will remember to pray for Jimmy during these next 15 months. And remember to pray for his wife, Lindsey and the young'uns, Jaxson, Juliet, and Johnny! They are elected to remain in Texas while Jimmy is in Iraq.

Glenda and I are proud of our children who are each making strides in thier lives that are good. We are blessed to have such great kids! And speaking of grandchildren, we have 8 currently, and one on the way! Tanja announced that she will be soon having another one to add to the mix! Isn't it wonderful?

Blessings to you!

Carry On

Moving again...

2007-10-23T16:03:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that it is my intent to keep a blog going, but needed to change the blog name since I am not in the location where I used to be! So while I am in the process of relocating, I thought I'd go ahead and get this started as well.

Look for me here from time to time. I hope to update at least once a week.

Carry On!