Christmas!

It's Christmas morning and I'm the only one up. Kathy spent most of the evening into the early hours wrapping gifts and getting the house ready. The kids are both sound asleep but I can imagine they are dreaming of a wonderful Christmas.

As I've been sitting here, I've been thinking about this Christmas season and all that it has given us: many people out of work but not too bad to not help others (as WRAF's "My Christmas Wish" showed), some battles over "CHRIST-mas" or "Happy Holidays", and other things that I think drew us AWAY from the TRUE meaning of Christmas.

A dear friend of mine sent me an email not too long ago that addresses this very sentiment I have, and I would like to share it with you:

A Letter from Jesus

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking my name out of the season. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If I want you to celebrate my birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE EACH OTHER.

Now, having said that, let me go on. If it bothers you that town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting my birth, then just get rid of a few snowmen and Santas and put a small Nativity scene in your own front lawn. If all my followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene in the town square because there would be many of them all over town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling it a "Holiday" tree instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all the trees anyway. You can remember me any time you see a tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of your tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15:1-8.

If you want to give me a present, here is my wish list. Choose something from it:

1. Instead of writing protest letters, write letters of love to a soldier away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home - they just need to know someone still cares.
3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording in his Christmas cards, write to him letting him know that you are praying for him and his family. Then follow up - it will be nice to hear from you again.
4. Instead of giving you kids a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need - spend more time with them. Hold them and let them know of my love for them.
5. Pick someone who had hurt you in the past and forgive them.
6. Did you know that someone in your town may try to take their life during this time of year - since you may not know who that person is, try to give everyone you might a warm smile.
7. Instead of knit picking what the retailer calls this time of year be patient with them. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" doesn't stop you from wishing them one.
   
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary!
9. There are families in your town that not only do not have a Christmas tree but they don't have presents to give or receive; buy some food and gifts for them. If you don't know them buy them for the Salvation Army and they will make the delivery for you.
10. If you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to me, then behave like a Christian! Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in my presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.

Don't forget, I am God and I can take care of myself. Just love me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Pick one from the list above and get to work. Time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is in your court. And do have the most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember.

I LOVE YOU,
JESUS

The Barna Group - Barna Studies the Research, Offers a Year-in-Review Perspective

The Barna Group has released it's year in review report and the findings show 3 themes:

1. Americans are more interested in faith and spirituality than Christianity.
2. American faith is now individual and customized.
3. Biblical literacy is not a priority in America.

For more a detailed look at these themes please click the link below.

The Barna Group - Barna Studies the Research, Offers a Year-in-Review Perspective

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Kids Top Internet Searches for 2009

From OnlineFamily.Norton.com, here are some statistics regarding teen internet use:

• YouTube, Google, and Facebook top the list


• Sex and Porn round out the top 5


• Kids spend most of their time searching for music related topics (30%), then TV/movie related topics (12%).


• The most popular celebrity kids searched for was Michael Jackson. Taylor Swift came in second.


• Team Jacob won over Team Edward, with Taylor Lautner coming in at #80 and Robert Pattinson being nonexistent in the top 100.


• Other top celebs on kids’ list of searches include Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, Lil Wayne, Megan Fox, Eminem, Beyonce, Britney Spears, Demi Lovato, Black Eyed Peas, Jonas Brothers, Rihanna, and Chris Brown.


• Kids are searching for shopping sites like eBay, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy.

For more on kids use of the internet click here.

What We Should Learn from Tiger Woods

I'm a huge fan of Phil Cooke. His take on the Woods issue is one that everyone in media, ministry, etc. should listen to. Click the link and give it a read.

Tiger's Mistake, and What We Should Learn | Phil Cooke The Change Revolution

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Focus on the Family Daly Responds to Woods Coverage

Focus president Jim Daly has responded to the mainstream media's continued "reporting" on Tiger Woods and his current issues. To read what he has said click the link below. Let's remember to pray of Tiger and his family during this time and that he will allow God to take a hold of his heart and life.

Focus on the Family Hits Media 'Gossip' On Tiger Woods | NewsBusters.org

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CNSNews.com - Evangelist Oral Roberts Dies at Age 91

Just got the news that former tent evangelist turned television evangelist Oral Roberts has passed away. He was 91. For more information on his life click the link below.

CNSNews.com - Evangelist Oral Roberts Dies at Age 91

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Teens and Mobile Phones Over the Past 5 Years

There's a lot of talk and research on teens and their mobile phones. With Christmas right around the corner you might be considering getting your pre-teen a cell phone. Youth culture expert Jonathan McKee brings to you some research on teen cell use over the past 5 years.

Teens and Mobile Phones Over the Past 5 Years

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Leadership Lessons from the Nativity - Mary

John Hull, president of Equip, joined me on the Morning Show today to continue our series of leadership lessons from those in the Nativity. Last week we looked at Joseph. This week our attention turned to mother of Jesus, Mary. What a great example of stepping out in faith when the culture would not understand. Listen here or scroll down.

Michael Landon, Jr. and The Silent Gift

I had the opportunity to talk with writer, producer and director Michael Landon, Jr. about his latest novel The Silent Gift. It's a story set in the 1930s about a handicapped boy and his mom. A very remarkable story about hope and encouragement. To listen click here or scroll down.

“The Christmas Story” Audio Bible Presentation

“I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today … a Savior is born.”

This exciting announcement is part of “The Christmas Story,” a free Audio Bible program about the birth of Jesus Christ.

“The Christmas Story” is an audio dramatized, word-for-word reading from the New Testament Gospels of Matthew and Luke and is produced by Faith Comes By Hearing, the world’s foremost Audio Bible ministry. This realistic audio recording was produced using multiple character voices, musical backgrounds and sound effects.

Faith Comes By Hearing produced this short, family-friendly program, which runs about 11 minutes, to help people engage in the Bible this holiday season and hear the Christmas story in a dramatic, audio format.

Founded in 1972 as a non-profit ministry, Faith Comes By Hearing records and uses Audio Bibles to disciple Americans as well as the world’s poor and illiterate people with God’s Word in audio.

Since more than 50 percent of the world’s population cannot read, Faith Comes By Hearing helps those hear God’s Word in their heart language. Through innovating industry-leading audio technology, Faith Comes By Hearing has helped people in more than 150 countries hear the Word of God in their own language. Currently, Faith Comes By Hearing has Audio New Testament recordings available in more than 400 languages.

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Leaership of the Nativity - Joseph

John Hull, president of Equip, and I will be discussing the leadership qualities of those in the Nativity. This week we looked at Joseph. To listen, click here or scroll down. In the coming weeks we'll take a look at Mary, the Shepherds, the Wise Men and Herod. Be sure to come back to take advantage of this unique study.

The Star of Bethlehem

This week on the Morning Show I had the opportunity to interview Rick Larson regarding his DVD and seminar on the Star of Bethlehem. A fascinating look at the celestial event the marked the birth of our Savior. To listen, click here or scroll down.

Michael Medved : Real Pilgrims Sought Purity, Not Tolerance or Diversity - Townhall.com

As we look forward to Thanksgiving I wonder what the Pilgrims might think if they could see what our country has become. Here's an interesting article by Michael Medved that sheds some light on why our forefathers came to this country.

Michael Medved : Real Pilgrims Sought Purity, Not Tolerance or Diversity - Townhall.com

Trace Embry with Shepherd's Hill Farm

It was great having Trace Embry of Shepherd's Hill Farm on the air with me this morning. We talked about his minstry and today's teens. I became more burdened then ever to help reach this next generation.

To listen scroll down or click here.

Leaders and Thankfulness

John Hull, president of Equip, joined me on the Morning Show to discuss leaders and thankfulness. This segment was a lot of fun for me and during this Thanksgiving season please remember to be thankful for those that God has entrusted to you.

To listen scroll down or click here.

Top 10 holiday Survival Tips

Lela Gilbert, author of the book On Our Own: Help and Hope for Single Moms, gives 10 holiday survival tips that everyone could use:

1. Make sure the kids have lots of happy events to look forward to


2. Find new ways of gift-giving that do not involve expensive gifts


3. Determine a Christmas budget and stick to it


4. Send each of your children a Christmas card with a person note


5. Take the time to list out the gifts of love you have received and have given (a great exercise to have with your kids)


6. Pray with your children, thanking God for His many blessings


7. Attend a holiday worship service together


8. Give yourself the gift of forgiveness - forgive others and yourself


9. Remember to "put your oxygen mask on first" - take care of yourself so that you can take care of your loved ones


10. Treat yourself with kind words

Ten ways to relieve stress during this Christmas season!

The Twilight Saga Continues

If you have teenagers in your life you have no doubt heard about Bella and Edward, the two primary characters of the Twilight saga. The new movie New Moon opens today and the fans are ready for this next installment.

My son has read the book and was not impressed (I think there wasn't enough action in it). Anyway, I've been contemplating the whole Edward/Bella thing and wondering how can I respond to the mania. I've read a lot blogs and articles with various points of view but nothing that really answered my questions until I read Jonathan McKee's article.

Jonathan has been on my show and is a youth specialist. He's not a typical "down on movies" or "movies are bad" kind of guy. He's pretty honest and straight on. Here's his take on New Moon and the points you, as a parent/grandparent/teen should know.

2012 - Is It the End?

The Mayans developed a number of calanders based on their understanding of astronomy with the calendars coming to a screeching halt in the year 2012. Some think that 2012 is the end of the world and this past week 2012 hit theaters with that premise in mind.

The Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) recently launched a website that tackles this issue and refutes this apocalyptic notion and points people to Christ. Check it out here

Aaron Shust in Concert for Brad Williams

Satruday, November 14, Dove Award winning artist Aaron Shust will present a night of worship to benefit Brad Williams. The concert will take place at the Grace Chapel and Performing Arts Center on the campus of Toccoa Falls College.

Tickets are a donation of $15 and are available at First Citizens Bank in Toccoa, Lavonia, and Carnesville. Groups of 10 or more are $10 each.

To hear an interview with Brad from the Morning Show click here or scroll down..

Leadership LIVE! with John Hull and Mike Shelley

This morning we were honored to have John Hull, president of Equip, on the air to discuss leadership. Today's topic was leading from the middle. John references Colossians 3:15 as a verse for all leaders.

To listen click here or scroll down.

The Pretenders

I'm not talking about the band from the '80s. I'm talking about that person sitting in the pew next to you. I may be evn talking about you! I just finished reading this article from the Christian Post and was pretty convicted by it. Give it a read and let me know your thoughts.

http://www.christianpost.com/article/20091110/megachurch-pastor-challenges-hypocrites-pretenders/index.html

Tributes to Our Veterans

This morning I asked our listeners to send me their tributes of friends and loved ones who served our country in the military. Here's a few of those tributes:

• This salute goes out in memory of my grandfather, Watson B. Lee, who passed awy this year. He served in the Navy during World War II. Also his three fine sons: Steve, Gary, and Butch Lee also proudly served our country in Vietnam and the Gulf War. Our family is proud of the heritage of service to our great country that these men have started for us!
  May God richly bless them! -- Cappie W.




• Our family has been blessed with wonderful patriotic heros. World War II: Cleo A. (my father), Tommy A., Roy Lee A., Pat A., Vernon A., Fred A., James S., Claude P., Grayson P. Vietnam era: Bill V. (my husband) and Dennis P. Afghanistan: Rob B. and John S. -- Peggy V.




• I would like to say "Thank You" to all of those who have unselfishlyserved to protect our freedom. On this day, I hold the memory of mybrother especially close. My brother, Hoyt P., passed away on July 23at 25 years old. Even after discharge, he continued to be most proud ofbeing a Marine! He was definitely one of the few and one of the proud. Wemiss him and love him! -- Chrissy V.




• Jerry F. in Lilburn is appreciated and loved by his daughter -- Kerri C.




• I would like to offer tribute to my father, Claud E., who served our country in World War II. He passed away in 1991. -- Maxine V.

We appreciate all of those that seved our country and continue to lift them up in our prayers. Our country is blessed to have men and women like these!

Sara Groves on The Morning Show

We were honored to have recording artist Sara Groves on the show this morning. We talked about her life and famiy and her latest project "Fireflies and Songs." Click here to listen or scroll down.

Christmas and Good Movies

I love Christmas!! I love everything about it! From the music, the stories, the food, family, celebrating the birth of Christ - EVERYTHING!!

One of the things I most look forward to are the movies that will run throughout the Christmas season. Movies like: It's a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, and most of all A Christmas Carol.

There are so many versions of this holiday favorite, and my favorite so far is the version featuring Patrick Stewart as Scrooge (though I really like Bill Murray's Scrooged). However, I think Stewart's version may be dethroned with the release of Disney's A Christmas Carol with the voice talent of Jim Carrey. My whole family has been waiting on pins and needles to see this on the iMAX screen.

I love everything about the story of Scrooge: redemption, making wise decisions, and that you are never too old to make positive changes in your life. Plugged In Online has a pretty decent review of the movie.

Take some time this Christmas season to see some good movies and maybe we'll bump into each other at the theater.

Not a Christian, But a Christ-Follower? | Out of Ur | Conversations for Ministry Leaders

Not a Christian, But a Christ-Follower? | Out of Ur | Conversations for Ministry Leaders

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John Hull of Equip on The Morning Show w/ Mike Shelley

It's always a pleasure to have John Hull, president of Equip, on the show. This morning we talked about the November 3rd elections and what leaders can learn from them. Click here to listen or scroll down

Taylor Swift Hype

If you have a young girl in your household (as I do) then Taylor Swift is a name that you have probably heard a time or two. I've been pretty impressed with this young girl's reputation as of late. But I still have questions about her and the person I trust the most regarding culture and youth is Jonathan McKee. Click the link below and read his take on this most popular young singer.

Taylor Swift Hype

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Seth's Blog: Why celebrate Halloween?

I was wondering what to blog about this Halloween and since I'm not into writing anything tonight I thought I would share this blog I read earlier by Seth Godin.

Seth's Blog: Why celebrate Halloween?

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Horror and The Simpsons | NewsBusters.org

Horror and The Simpsons | NewsBusters.org

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How Should a Leader Respond to Criticism?

We have seen in the last few weeks a feud between FOX News and the Obama administration, and right or wrong this situation begs the question, "How does a leader respond to criticism?" I had a listener email this question and I posed it to John Hull, president of Equip. Click here to listen or scroll down.

Kelly Clinger on The Morning Show

I was fortunate to have on the air with me this morning new artist Kelly Clinger. She has an amazing story and an amazing voice. Click here to listen or scroll down.

Shuttle Astronaut Patrick Forrester on The Morning Show

I had the great honor of interviewing shuttle astronaut Patrick Forrester (U.S. Army Colonel, ret.) on The Morning Show today. We talked about his last shuttle mission on which he brought with him a piece of Nate Saint's plane. Click here or scroll down to hear the entire interview.

Todd Agnew on The Morning Show

Todd Agnew joined me on October 15 to talk about his new CD "Need" and The Promise Remains Tour. Click here to listen or scroll down.

John Hull on the Morning Show

John Hull, president of Equip, joined me on October 15 to talk about how we can encourage our pastors. Click here to listen or scroll down.

'Twitter Bible' Converts Scripture into Mini Messages

Saw this article this morning and was wondering what your thoughts were regarding a Twitter version of the Bible:

The Christian Post reports that the Bible is now available in a new translation -- Twitter. The German language book, actually titled "And God Decided to Chill," summarizes the 31,000-verse Bible in fewer than 4,000 tweets. Each "verse" of this "Twitter Bible" is under 140 characters long, leading to some paraphrased verses. For instance, the Genesis account of God resting after creation reads, "Thank God! It's Sunday!" Melanie Huber, portal manager of the Protestant Web site www.evangelisch.de, which launched the project, said about the initiative: "We want with this action to encourage a debate about the Bible and to simultaneously show the modern possibilities that exist to receive and make known the Word of God," according to Ecumenical News International.

A New Candid Camera

<a href="http://www.cmt.com/video/" target="_blank">Tom Mabe: Eavesdropping</a>

Tom Mabe: Eavesdropping

An Old Fashioned Book Burning

Are you kidding me!!??!! There are still churches like this in the United States?! It's no wonder people are turned off of Christianity. This is such an embarrassment.

Jason Roy of Building 429

This morning on The Morning Show, Jason Roy (center at right) from the group Building 429, was on to talk about the groups new album and The Promise Remains Tour. To hear the full interview click here or scroll down.

The Difference Between Liberals & Conservatives

I'm a fan of Neal Boortz and though I don't agree with everything he has to say he does cause me to think. This was mentioned on his show recently and he posted in his "Boortz Blast." Read it and give me your thoughts.

Neal Boortz - The Difference Between a Liberal and a Conservative

Confessions of a Broken Heart

We've all heard the tragic story of Lindsay Lohan - an actress with a promising future, however, a life spun out of control. What could have caused such a drastic turn? Dennis Rainey of Family Life posted this music video by Lohan that just might have the answer.



The power of a father in a young girl's life

Cape First Worship Live!

Cape First Worship will be having a live web event this evening beginnign at 7pm. To be a part of the event click here

Steve Peyson on The Morning Show

In the September 24th issue of The Toccoa Record I read an article about Ebenezer Baptist Church's youth group and it's amazing growth. Steve Peyson, Ebenezer's youth pastor and two young ladies from his ministry, joined me on The Morning Show this morning to talk about what is happening with youth in Stephens County.

To listen to the interview scroll down or click here

Articles of Interest

Sorry for not posting much the last few days. I've been reading a lot of blogs lately and have found a few articles that I would like to suggest you take a look at.

1. Criticism 101 It's hard to deal with criticism and I thought Mark Batterson's article was very good.
2. Make Some Money Chris Brogan is a well known social media guru and if you are needing some advice on making money on the web this is a great article.
3. How Much Influence Does MTV Have? Jonathan McKee is a youth specialist and I've used his site for many of my own youth messages. He also takes a good read on the teen culture.
4. Dan Brown's Loss of Faith Do you ever have one of those "what if" moments? What if Christians had a better handle on what we believe? Maybe Dan Brown would be writing good Christian fiction.
5. 11 Quick Tips to Enhance Your Facebook Page I love Facebook!! I'm connected with a lot of old friends from high school and college plus I've made quite a few new friends. I found this article to be very helpful and I hope to use some of the suggestions very soon.
6. Rob Bell Defines 'Evangelical' What does the term "evangelical" mean to you? I believe the term has been hijacked and it's lost the original meaning.

There's a lot more but I thought it might be "information overload" and there's already a lot here. Enjoy the articles and let me know your thoughts.

John Hull on The Morning Show

John Hull, president of Equip, was on The Morning Show this morning to discuss a leader's purpose. Click here or scroll down to listen.

Toccoa Falls Radio: WRAF Christian Radio Launches App for the iPhone

Toccoa Falls Radio: WRAF Christian Radio Launches App for the iPhone

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John Hull on The Morning Show

This morning I welcomed back to the show John Hull, president of Equip, to talk about a leader's responsibility of keeping his/her's followers dreams alive. To listen click here or scroll down.

The Barna Group - Jesus

It's hard to not hear about health care, especially since the President has made the rounds on the Sunday morning talk shows (except for Fox News Sunday) and he will be on Letterman tonight. Health care is a huge topic but not a new one. The Gospel of Luke was written by a physician.

The Barna Group has recently published a piece on Jesus' health care plan that I found to be quite interesting and worth the read. Click below and then let me know your thoughts.

The Barna Group - Jesus’ Health Care Plan » Barna Blog

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American Vice: Mapping the 7 Deadly Sins

How do you think the United States stands regarding the 7 Deadly Sins? You know: greed, envy, sloth, wrath, gluttony, lust, and pride.

A group from Kansas State has formulated a map that charts out where each one of the 7 deadly sins ranks in the United States. I think it's pretty interesting.

American Vice: Mapping the 7 Deadly Sins

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The Gospel for iGens | Out of Ur | Conversations for Ministry Leaders

Found this article this morning that caused me to think about how we share our faith to today's generation. What are your thoughts? Does our methods still work with a generation that doesn't feel guilty about much of anything?

The Gospel for iGens | Out of Ur | Conversations for Ministry Leaders

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Dale Vermillion on The Morning Show

Dale Vermillion joined me on the show this morning to talk about the latest in mortgage and finance news.

1. Rates hold Steady Still – BankRate.com shows average 30 year rate down to 5.21a5 from 5.27% last week and 15 year fixed 4.68% vs. 4.72%



2. Dodd Leans Toward One Agency for All Banks American Banker (09/01/09) Senate Banking Committee Chairman Chris Dodd, D-Conn., is working on a draft bill to reform the financial regulatory system in the hopes of getting it passed before year's end. The bill likely will create a single bank supervisory agency, taking such authority away from the Federal Reserve and the FDIC; establish an interagency council to oversee systemic risk; and create a consumer protection agency.

He also shared some encouraging Scripture when dealing with your finances:

• Proverbs 3:18
  Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.


• Matthew 6:34
  So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

To listen scroll down or click here

For help with foreclosure Dale recommends HopeNow.

Happy Labor Day

Three Areas Of Personal Recomittment :: Perry Noble | Leadership, Vision

Perry Noble, a pastor of a multi-site church in the Anderson-Greenville-Spartanburg area, has always encouraged and challenged me. This article on commitment is one that has challenged me.

Three Areas Of Personal Recomittment :: Perry Noble | Leadership, Vision & Creativity

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The New Music Spotlight for September 5

This weekend's New Music Spotlight will showcase music from:

• Sarah Scheiber - Run


• Glory Revealed II - How Great


• Virginia Hill - Turn Your Eyes


• Caleb Rowden - How Marvelous


• Sacred Road - I Need An Angel


• Mandisa - He Is With You

Click for here for times when The New Music Spotlight airs on Toccoa Falls Radio

LeadingSmart: Teens, TV and Texting

Some updated information on teens media use

LeadingSmart: Teens, TV and Texting

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A Gift from Braselton Tabernacle of Praise

On Wednesday, August 25, Bryan Race and I had the opportunity to visit Braselton Tabernacle of Praise. What a great evening! One of the friendliest congregations - filled with love and encouragement!

The month of August is their missions emphasis month and they surprised us with a financial gift to the ministry of Toccoa Falls Radio. What a blessing! Thank you Braselton Tabernacle of Praise for your generous gift!

Will You Stand Up for God?

This video has been making the rounds on Facebook and emails. I finally took the time to see it and I was moved! Take a look and let me know your thoughts.

The New Music Spotlight for August 29

This weekend on The New Music Spotlight we highlight music from:

• Selah - Standing on the Promises



• Tammy Trent - Shine



• Phillips, Craig & Dean - From the Inside Out



• Steven Curtis Chapman - Heaven is the Face



• Michael Bahn - Lost in Your Wonder



• Gina Tarajano - Let Yourself Love

Some great music that will encourage your heart!

John Hull of Equip

John Hull, president of Equip, joined me for a disussion on the heart of a leader and to give us an update on Equip's work in the country of Pakistan.

To listen click here or scroll down.

Dale Vermillion on The Morning Show

On Tuesday, August 25, Dale Vermillion joined me on the air to discuss the latest mortgage news. Here's the bullet points from our discussion:

1. Mortgage Rates Lowest Since Late May (08/21/09) Ephesians 5:15 – be careful then how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days!Mortgage rates for 30-year fixed loans fell this week to 5.12 percent, the lowest rate since the average hit 4.91 percent. 15-year fixed-rate loans fell to 4.56 percent from 4.68 percent last week; five-year, adjustable-rate mortgages fell to 4.57 percent from 4.75 percent; and one-year ARMs declined to 4.69 percent from 4.72 percent.

2. Housing Data Show Slowly Firming Market Wall Street Journal (08/19/09) Discussed the positive trends in market with caution to stay thinking conservative - Proverbs 16:9: In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his step

To listen to our discussion click here or scroll down.

Ramadan - A Time for Christians to Pray

Ramadan, 30 days of prayer and fasting in the Muslim world, began this past Saturday and The 30-Days Prayer Network has a rich website that guides Christians during the next 30 days on how to pray for the Muslims in our communities and around the world. Check out this video!



Remember to pray for the Muslim world during Ramadan!

Tim Hawkins and Chick-fil-A

On today's edition of Family Life Today, Christian comedian Tim Hawkins shared how much he loves Chick-fil-A. Here's a video of his love song to chicken:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsJHqstPuNo

Déjà vu? Cash For Clunkers

And the government wants to run our health care?! Here's some thoughts from Phil Cooke.

Déjà vu? Cash For Clunkers & The Health Care Plan Phil Cooke and The Change Revolution

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Pardon Our Dust

I'm making some changes to the blog in order for it to be of easier use. Sorry if some of the links you have enjoyed using in the past are not available. Everything should be back in a few days.

Mike

Leadership Moments Live with John Hull

On today's edtion of The Morning Show on WRAF I was joined by John Hull of Equip to discuss communicating your vision and getting your followers to buy in to that vision. Click here to listen or scroll down.

One Way to Wash Your Car

Here's a way to wash your car, but I don't recommend it:

Robert D. Novak, Conservative Columnist, Dies at 78

Robert Novak, a gifted conservative columnist and thinker, dies today. A great loss to the conservative movement.

Robert D. Novak, Conservative Columnist, Dies at 78:

From The Morning Show Archives

I had the priveledge to speak with Phil Cooke back in March about his newest book "The Last T.V. Evangelist." Phil is a great interview and a very open and honest individual. Take a listen by clicking here or by scrolling down to the bottom of the page.

Conservatives Now Outnumber Liberals in All 50 States, Says Gallup Poll

I've been finding a lot of articles lately that claim America has more conservatives than liberals but when elections come around the same liberals are reelected. Give me your thoughts

CNSNews.com - Conservatives Now Outnumber Liberals in All 50 States, Says Gallup Poll

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What Would Reagan Do?

In the last 15 years or so I've found myself to be more and more involved in the political process. I really got into it while employed with the Christian Coalition under the leadership of Ralph Reed, who I greatly admire and respect. A child of the '80s, the only President I really knew was Ronald Reagan so I define myself as a "Reagan Conservative."

All this talk about the health care plan got me wondering how "The Great Communicator" would have responded. I found this audio of Reagan responding to the idea of socialized health care. Here are his thoughts from 1961.



So, any questions?

New Music Spotlight

This week on The New Music Spotlight we highlight music from:

• FFH - What it Feels Like


• Wayburn Dean - What Will Be Your Legacy


• Newfire - Walk Through the Wilderness


• Joshua and Keren - Right Here With You


• Be Be and Ce Ce Winans - Grace

Tune in to Toccoa Falls Radio for The New Music Spotlight

Leadership Succession Plans

I've been reading a lot lately on the failures of successors. There have been a number of ministries that have brought in a new leader only to have that leader resign or terminated. What causes new leaders to fail? John Hull of Equip joined me this morning to talk about succession plans. To listen click here or scroll down.