Practice Thankfulness #320

Luke 17:11-19 (NASB)

Ten Lepers Cleansed Only One Showed Gratitude

11 While He was on the way to Jerusalem, He was passing between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As He entered a village, ten leprous men who stood at a distance met Him; 13 and they raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they were going, they were cleansed. 15 Now one of them, when he saw that he had been healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice, 16 and he fell on his face at His feet, giving thanks to Him. And he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine—where are they? 18  Was no one found who returned to give glory to God, except this foreigner?” 19 And He said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has made you well.

When was the last time you said, “Thank you, I really appreciate you” to someone? Maybe you said it to Mom or Dad or a close friend or to your favorite teacher. But how about saying that to a teller at the bank, or the person who waits on you at a grocery store, or maybe it needs to be that family member that serves you daily.

Have you ever noticed the response you get when you show a little gratitude? Jesus had healed 10 lepers; only one came back to thank him and show appreciation. Jesus was obviously impressed with the man’s heart of gratefulness. But he was also impressed that he fell on his face and gave thanks. Verbal thanks means a lot. Jesus was also pleased that the gratitude shown by the man also brought glory to God.

Practice this week by saying to those you encounter. “Thank you, I so appreciate you and what you do.”

____________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from Home

I did make it to Starbucks one morning this week, but most of the week has been spent at home trying to regain strength. 

We had a great time as we celebrated Justin's 2nd birthday on December 3, 2014. He is a real delight with lots of energy. Johnny, as big brother, does everything to help BRO as he calls Justin. The picture of Johnny, Justin and Santa was snapped just as the camera man said, "Show some teeth." Johnny obliged and pulled Justin's mouth apart to show some teeth. The look on Santa's face is priceless. 

Sandy and I have attended as many band concerts and choir concerts as I could handle. Bennett, Burke and Collin do such a great job with their music. 

Sunday, the 14th we will celebrated Collin, Susan, Mandy and Roger's birthdays. It was a great evening sharing with the family. 

We, as a family, are involved in a major fund raiser for my health treatment. Sandy and I are still trying to stay involved in church. We even attended our Sunday School Class on Friday night. What a wonderful time with all of them. I am so thankful and appreciate of what they are placing in our lives. 

Several of you have already sent money to the fund raisers. As of this time two are up and working. We have ways for you to help. Our goal is 60,000 dollars to pay for expenses, treatment, travel, lodging and and follow up. 

If you are interested in receiving a tax deductible contribution please send the check payable to First Baptist Church. The memo on the outside of the envelop and on the memo line of your check MUST say MEDICAL FAITH FUND. Please DO NOT WRITE MY NAME ON THE CHECK. You will be sent a tax deduction at the end of the year. 

The Church address is FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TEMPE, 4525 S McCLINTOCK DR. TEMPE, AZ 85282.

Another way you may help us reach our goal is by going to "Dennis Wood's Carcinoid Cancer Treatment Fundraiser" on GiveForward at http://gfwd.at/1xbrLly.

You can donate to the fundraiser and give words of encouragement in the form of a "HUG". Thank you for your support.   

I am still experiencing pain and weakness. I see the oncologist and the gastroenterologist this week. Time is growing close. Still waiting on the medical records from KY to arrive. 

Thanks for your prayers. ~ DGW

A Heartfelt Need #319

Greetings from Home, 

I am really weak and in lots of pain. My cancer is growing at a rate 7 times faster than normal. I met with Dr Wolin and received more information  than I could comprehend. Overall, the KY trip was a success. Dr Wolin wants me to go to Houston, TX for the actual treatment for my cancer.

The First Baptist Church of Tempe will open an account that you may donate to in order to defray the expenses of the actual treatment, including travel, meals, hotel, and followup. It is possible that the medicare and health insurance I currently have may pay for part of it. The cost will be 40-70 thousand dollars with all the tests and other procedures that will be necessary. Any changes and I will let you know immediately. I will also follow-up with another announcement later this week or early next week. 

I am waiting for more information about dates and actual costs. We plan to be in Houston December 28 to January 10; unless times change.

I CANNOT TAKE MONEY OUT OF PURPOSE MINISTRIES FOR PERSONAL NEEDS SO DON'T SEND MONEY TO PURPOSE MINISTRIES. 

The checks need sent to First Baptist Church Tempe. The address is 4525 S McClintock Dr. Tempe, AZ.  Checks need to  be made out to First Baptist Church of Tempe. The account name is "MEDICAL FAITH FUND". put it on the memo line and the outside of envelope.

You will receive a tax deductible contribution from the church.

I pray God will bless you with His amazing Grace. Love all of you so much. 

Dennis Wood 

PS: If you have questions please email me at

   purposeministries@gmail.com

* You may contribute another way by clicking on the link below to "Dennis Wood's Carcenoid Cancer Treatment Fundraiser" on GiveForward! Please help us reach our goal by visiting http://gfwd.at/1xbrLIy. You can donate to the fundraiser and  give words of encouragement in the form of a “Hug”.  Thank you for your support. Together we can reach our goal!

Intended for His Glory #318

Romans 11:36 For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen.

Colossians 1:27 For God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. And this is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory.

The Book of James teaches that “every good and perfect gift comes from God.” In Romans the Apostle Paul gives you the truth that everything is from Him and exists because God holds it together. Why would He be involved in your life? Why would He exert His power on your life? The reason for your existence is to bring glory to Him. Thus it is logical that in His power He directs everything to bring that glory to Himself.

You would like to place some things in the category called God did it, and another someone or something else did it. As life comes from Him so does His power. Not that God causes bad things happen to people; it is that all things are for God’s glory and comes with His allowing it. His power directs all things. His power allows things to exist, but always with His hand on them.

You may wonder why, all to bring glory to Him. God can take your most difficult moments and “cause all things to work together for good.” It is so hard for your finite mind to grasp. What is the outcome of all things that come into your life, and that are controlled by the power of God? God gets the glory. Your life brings glory to God.

Christ is in you. This is what gives you the assurance (one definition of faith) that God is at work through every trial in life. You will not only observe His glory, but will share in it. Sharing in the glory of God will be for all of eternity.

God wants all the people on earth to know that the glory and riches of Christ are for you. Although you are underserving, unworthy, sinful, selfish, and rebellious the glory and riches of Christ are for you. To Him be the Glory.

Praise God everything comes from Him, exists by His power, and is intended for His glory. And that means you.

____________________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from Starbucks in beautiful Tempe, AZ

I WAS CUSTOMER OF THE WEEK AT STARBUCKS THIS PAST WEEK!! Free coffee all week. I so appreciate the Baristas and the customers that encourage me every day. A wonder group of friends. 

Sorry I have not sent The Encourager for the past two weeks. Between health issues and the busy times it just didn't happen. During the past couple of weeks Sandy and I have continued our teaching ministries. Her Young Mom's class will end in a couple of weeks. She is already preparing for next Spring's class. 

I had the privilege of teaching at Grace Community Church's Senior Group. It was a wonderful time of fellowship. I even met a couple of people who were graduates of Southwest Baptist University, my alma mater. Small world. On November 2 we both spoke to a Sunday School class at City of Grace Church in Mesa. Had a great time with them. 

In spite of the health issues I want to and plan to continue teaching and preaching. On November 30th, December 28th, and January 4th I will be preaching at the Intersect Service at First Baptist Church of Tempe. The service is in the LOFT.

Our Campers on Mission outreach project is January 15-24, 2015. Sandy and I both will be teaching daily. So we look forward to that special time. This will be our 7th year. We would love to speak to your small group, your whole church or any group of people who want to hear God's word. Email me for a request. 

The kids celebrated Halloween with the usual trick or treating. The candy was overly plentiful. We went to Johnny and Justin's home  to be a part of their fun. They went for a while, came home, and then Johnny thought they should go again. Twice the haul! I was not feeling well so I watched them leave the house empty handed and arrive back with sweets to last for a year. 

Bennett and Burke were in their schools musical "Any Thing Goes." Burke played the part of a sailor and a Chinese man, accent and all. Bennett had the lead role and from an unbiased, and accurate evaluation: "HE WAS AWESOME"! So proud of both of them. Very talented musicians and accomplished actors. 

Collin spent the weekend at Magic Mountain, a roller coaster park in California. He had a blast. He is daring and loves speed. Wonder where he got that from.

My main reason for not writing during the past two weeks is health related. I have increasing pain and discomfort. Two tests performed week before last revealed, through a biopsy of a greatly enlarged lymph node in the groin, that the cancer has metastasized  to the lymph system. The PET SCAN revealed that the entire lymph system is now full of neuroendocrine tumors; in my case carcinoid tumors. 

At this point the doctors are consulting with other doctors to see if I can handle any more treatment or what other options I have right now. It was not a good report but I also know that no matter what God will get glory. 

I praise God for all of you and your consistent prayers. One of my doctors said to me, "Dennis, there is no medical reason for you to be alive; it is just prayer." I agree wholeheartedly. So keep the prayers going upward to the throne of grace. 

I sometimes feel like a hypocrite. I write to encourage you and often feel such a need myself. It has been a long arduous eight years since I was diagnosed with cancer in my liver. Never did I expect it to move to the lymph system. 

I love you all for your persistence in prayer. I don't plan to stop doing ministry or of spending as much time with my family and friends as possible. God is Good. 

Would love to see all of you. You mean a great deal to me. 

Blessing on you this week as your life in Christ brings glory to God.  ~ DGW

God's Character #317

Rom 4:17

17 (as it is written, "A father of many nations have I made you") in the sight of Him whom he believed, even God, who gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist. (NAS)

Do you struggle with faith? Do you feel that your faith is weak or non-existent and yet you have a relationship with God. Maybe the real issue is not your faith but your understanding of the character and nature of God. It just might be that your struggle with trusting God is based on a misconception of who God is. The Apostle Paul in writing to the Church at Rome recognized their struggle with faith. He uses Abraham as an example of someone who trusted and had faith in God. Because of Abraham’s faith God blessed him and made of him the great nation He had earlier promised. The answer to that promise came not as a result of Abraham’s deeds, but his faith.

Outward evidence would have indicated to Abraham that the promise would never be fulfilled but because Abraham knew God he still believed. It is impossible to trust something or someone you don’t know. We need to understand the character of God and His attributes in order to have faith in Him.

Psalm 9:9 The LORD also will be a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble, Ps 9:10 And those who know Thy name will put their trust in Thee; (NAS)

The word ‘name’ means far more than we would mean when we say we know someone’s name. It means we know Him, his character and acknowledge His attributes. He is a stronghold. Thus He can be trusted.

Once we get to know His character we learn to trust Him and express our faith in Him. A little boy was on the roof of the house and the ladder broke. A man on the ground said, “jump I will catch you.” The little boy’s response; “Go get my Daddy, I know him.”

Do you know the character and nature of God? The more you know Him the stronger your faith will become.

___________________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from Starbucks in beautiful Tempe, AZ

I am so blessed with opportunities to share the story of Jesus and how He has made a difference in my life. I believe one of the ways God matures you into someone who is like Jesus is through adversity and trials. The trials of my life have opened many doors to share the story of Christ and His hand upon me and my family, and that God has used them to make me Christ-like.  

Thursday October 30th I will be speaking to the XYZ group at Grace Community Church in Tempe. The luncheon meeting will give me one more time to tell about God's goodness. On Sunday November 2nd Sandy and I will be speaking to a Sunday School class at City of Grace Church in Mesa, AZ. Our long time friends, Mel and Shawnee Worters lead that class weekly. Sandy continues teaching the Young Mom's Class on Tuesday mornings at FBC Tempe. 

I will be preaching at the First Baptist Church Intersect Service in the LOFT on November 30; December 28; and January 4 at 9:30 AM.  Our annual ministry of evangelism, teaching and outreach in Quartzsite, AZ is schedule for January 16-24, 2015. Sandy and I still have several times available to preach or teach at your church or small group. Please email me with your request.

Sandy's brother, Sammy, and his wife, Kathy will be visiting us Thursday through Sunday this week. We so look forward to seeing them. They are eager for the opportunity to go Trick or Treating with Johnny and Justin. We all are. Collin will spend the week-end at Magic Mountain with his church's youth group. He is pumped. Burke and Bennett continue to work on their schools Fall Musical. 

Many of you have inquired about my health. Seems like I just continue to need tests run and procedures performed. Thursday October 24 I had a PET scan looking for possible cancer in other parts of my body. On October 28th I have scheduled a biopsy of two very large lymph nodes Please pray for a good report from these two tests. I continue to struggle with lots of pain. The doctors do not know why as of yet. Thanks for your prayers.

The concern you have shown over the years is overwhelming to me. Your words of encouragement to me and Sandy are so important to us. We truly are blessed with such a strong support system. May God bless you in a special way. 

Words cannot describe what I feel inside. Gratitude is close. Love may be better; but still inadequate to tell you thanks for what you mean to both of us. 

Blessings.  ~ DGW

Bold Curiosity #315

 John 3 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

The New Birth

3:1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; 2 this man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.

  

Someone has said, “Curiosity killed the cat.” I assume that means the cat was curious and stuck its head into someplace where he could not get lose. Curiosity doesn’t always kill; in fact often it is the beginning of life. Nicodemus was curious. He had an inquiring mind. He wanted to know more about this Jesus man. The stories were circulating about His healing, His teaching and His Holy ways. It was because of this that Nicodemus asked for a night meeting. His desire to know more about Jesus led him to make a bold statement. “Rabbi, we know that you have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.”

The statement from Nicodemus indicated he recognized Jesus as more than an ordinary man; but still did not go beyond the description of Jesus as a great teacher sent from God. Jesus immediately throws a statement back to Nicodemus; “Truly, Truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” The response from Nicodemus was typical. To paraphrase, “How can I be born when I already am?” 


Jesus then answered: To enter the Kingdom of God you have to be born physically and spiritually. Jesus’ emphatic statement, “you must be born again or from above indicates every human being needs to experience a new birth to gain eternal life. Believing Jesus is a great teacher, prophet, humanitarian, or full of good works is not sufficient. Jesus claims Himself to be the Son of God. Faith in Jesus as God Himself is necessary for new birth and eternal life. If you have not placed your faith in Him; why not right now.                    

__________________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from Starbucks in beautiful Tempe, AZ

Hope and pray that all of you are finding strength and power through His Holy Spirit. May He continue to guide you in all your endeavors. 

This past week has been one of limited activity. But this week and next are going to make up for it. The older grandsons are all back in school after Fall Break. That means soccer games, band rehearsals, and play practice. 

Sandy and I are headed camping with Grace Community Church's Family Camping Group this week end. (17-19) I will be speaking to them on Sunday. We will be at Roosevelt Lake. I really enjoy the fellowship, food, and spiritual uplifting. 

I will be speaking at the XYZ  Group at Grace Community Church at their noon luncheon on October 30th. 

Sammy and Kathy Allen, Sandy's brother and his wife, will spend the week end of October 30-November 2 with us. 

November 2 Sandy and I will be speaking at City of Grace in Mesa in a Sunday School class taught by our friends, Mel and Shawnee Worters. 

Sandy continues to teach her "YOUNG MOM'S BIBLE STUDY" on Tuesday mornings at FBC Tempe. 

I know it is a while ahead but we are anticipating with real joy the trip to Quartzsite again this year in January. Take a moment and google the Quartzsite Rock and Gem Show. You will get a perspective of what we will be doing. 

The reason I give you our schedule is because we need your prayers as we prepare and present. 

A BIG THANKS to all of you who recently gave financially to Purpose Ministries Inc in order that we can fulfill these needs of ministry. May God bless you real special. 

All of the past The Encouragers are on line at:  dgtheencourager.blogspot.com 

If you have friends or families that would be encouraged by receiving The Encourager please send me their name and email address.

God bless you. ~ DGW

PS: Justin and Johnny are getting costumes ready for Halloween. It is interesting to pick out personalities from pictures. 

From the Inside Out #314

New International Version

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

New Living Translation

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.

English Standard Version

that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

New American Standard Bible

that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man,

How did you make it through? How did you survive? Where did you find the strength to endure? You likely have heard someone asked such questions. Usually it means that person has experienced a difficult trial or struggle in life that most people would have not survived. Instead the person not only survived but in turn actually thrived.

The answer for Christians is that there was an inner strength; an inner power something beyond them but still in them. Likely you have experienced something in your life where an inner strength or power over came you and you found strength to rally and make it through.

The Apostle Paul writing to the Colossian Church reminded them of his prayers for them in order that they would discover the glorious unlimited resource of God: HIS HOLY SPIRIT WITHIN EVERY BELIEVER.  God the Holy Spirit is in you to give you the power you will need for whatever comes your way. The Holy Spirit is not just an ethereal power, but a real person; God Himself living in you. Next time you face something overwhelming in your life just remember you are not alone. God is in you to strengthen you from the inside out. I am praying that you would be empowered by His unlimited resources for your life today. To Him Be the Glory.

___________________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from Starbucks in beautiful Tempe, AZ 

Fall is definitely here!! Not only do I know by the football games on Friday nights but Bennett, Burke and Collin are on Fall Break. Roger and Jen and the boys spent one week of their vacation in Missouri. They met relatives, saw Vernon Holler, the Truman home and museum, and enjoyed eating at Lambert's restaurant in Springfield; the home of "throwed rolls". Their time with Roger's cousin Meredith in Kansas City was quite fun This was in spite of the fact that they had to take Roger to the ER. Turns out he had pneumonia. He is better now. 

Collin is running for president of his student body at Fees College Preparatory Middle School. The voting will not take place until after Fall Break.

Sunday night we celebrated Jennifer's and Bennett's birthdays. Bennett will be 17 on October 8th. Jennifer's birthday was in September, but due to schedules we had to wait until now for her party. I will not reveal her age. Johnny and Justin really enjoy everyone's birthday. 

Ministry opportunities continue to become a reality. Sandy continues her Young Mom's Bible Study. I had the enjoyment of teaching the Men's Friday morning Bible Study with a group of men from Grace Community Church. I am scheduled to speak to the Camping Group from Grace CC at their Fall Camping Retreat. I have also been asked to speak at their XYZ Senior Group at the end of October. 

It was so rewarding to speak to the Intersect Service in the LOFT on October 5th. 

Sandy and I have opened our home to the Middle School group at our church for their Wednesday night Bible Study. On the 16th we are beginning a Bible Study in our home for young adults. Needless to say we could use your prayers!!! Thanks.

God has so blessed both of us to continue ministry in spite of the odds that ministry at least for me was over. God is Good!! I keep thinking of the verse of scripture God gave to me back in October of 2009; Psalms 118:17 "I will not die but live and tell what the Lord has done." During these past five years God has allowed me to tell what He has done many many times. He continues to open the door for that opportunity again and again. To Him be the Glory!!

May God give you a real peace from the inside out.  ~ DGW