Thailand's Short Term Economic and Political Perspective 2010

BANGKOK

Feb. 21st 2010

Thai economic growth is projected to rise between approximately 4 to 5 percent on higher exports and rising economic fundamentals in 2010, reflecting increases in tourist arrivals and employment, as well as the new AFTA Asian Free Trade Agreement. However, political difficulties and domestic turbulence should also be factored in. The current situation is littered with the potential for highly unpredictable events and creating an uncertain climate.

Gold has recently decreased about $50 per ounce on lagging demand in world markets with an overall 11% drop in demand in 2009 from 2008. Locally, current prices have relaxed with prices in Bangkok at 17,300 baht for buying rates, while gold was selling at 17,400 baht earlier this week.

This week the baht was trading at just under 33.2 to the dollar while the Japanese yen traded at 100 yen to 36.33 -36.45 baht. The battered euro was trading at near 45 baht to the euro.

On the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), shares have recently declined about 10% from their 9 month highs on January 10-11, 2010 to current market levels of approximately 700 points for the main index. Friday in Bangkok the SET was up over four points to close at 700.44.

Most European and Asian markets lost momentum Thursday, plunging in response to the U. S. Federal Reserve Bank's surprise announcement of a.25% rise in the emergency loan rate it charges to banks.

Negative risks weighing on Thailand's economic prospects include the uncertainty posed by the fate of approximately 65 industrial projects worth billions of dollars still awaiting the Central Administrative Court's ruling on whether they will be allowed to continue due to environmental lawsuits brought by local villagers, threatened protests by the UDD/ Phuea Pandin and Thai Red Shirt allied activists at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport and other venues, as well as fears of political threats and uncertainties regarding the asset seizure of former deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's $76 billion baht against senior political figures and Supreme Court judges involved in the final decision, due on February 26. The assets were seized amid allegations of corruption and Mr. Thaksin's failure to return in August 2008 to appear to face charges after being allowed to fly to Hong Kong after posting bail to travel to the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Since then, Mr. Thaksin has made a variety of countries his temporary home including London, Dubai, China and Cambodia, while recent tensions between Cambodia and Thailand have also emerged at a variety of international high level meetings, such as the recent ASEAN meeting in Hua Hin. Hun Sen has dubiously offered the former Thai prime minister free access and a safe haven while appointing him Cambodia's economic advisor, a move the current Thai government in Bangkok considers interfering in its sovereignty, judicial system and internal politics, allowing that Thailand and Cambodia have extradition treaties, which Cambodia has failed to fulfill in regard to Mr. Thaksin.

Mr. Thaksin, his wife Pojamarn and their three adult children have faced numerous corruption investigations which political activists, rural supporters and allies supporting the former prime minister's camps view as politically motivated. The final verdict is due to be decided shortly now that final arguments have been delivered.

Thai-Cambodia Relations: No Love Lost

While relations with Cambodia were at near crisis levels last month, neither Hun Sen nor Thailand's Prime Minister Abhisit Vejajiiva seem willing to reconcile their positions.

Some political analysts and Thai media lay partial blame on Mr. Abhisit's government for the appointment of its foreign minister, alleged to have overtly insulted the Cambodian leader, for getting its diplomatic relationship with its neighbor off on the wrong foot.

The Cambodian Prime Minister and his wife attempted to visit a Buddhist religious site near disputed border areas along the Thai- Cambodian border in early February, sparking fresh Thai government initiatives to calm the issue, where forces fighting border skirmishes had left approximately a dozen Thai and Cambodian troops injured or dead within the last year.

Last week a Cambodian government website launched a fresh war of words in its spat with Thailand, making a variety of volatile accusations against the current Thai Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejajiiva. It was also reported in Thai media that Hun Sen's wife had invoked curses aginst the Thai prime minister at a temple near their border. Hun Sen is also reported to have invoked occultic curses against the Thai leader.

Trouble in Paradise...

The largest Thai bank, Bangkok Bank was prescient to close its main office and headquarters to customers at noon Friday, Feb. 19 after about 1000 protesters gathered and a police contingent of approximately 500 officers closed traffic to the area. The protesters, from the Red Shirts/UDD, or the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship are seeking revenge and garnering support for what they allege is financial support for Prem Tinsulanonda by the bank's owners.

Meanwhile, last week in Bangkok between Saturday night and Sunday morning, a pair of explosive devices were intended to gain publicity in the upcoming case involving former Prime Minister Thaksin. In the first, an M-79 grenade was detonated in a parking lot near the Government House, where officials and leaders, including the prime minister, frequently work.

The second explosive was a 3 lb. C-4 bomb that had been placed near the perimeter of the Supreme Court's Division for Holders' of Political Offices, where the asset seizure case will be decided. It is widely thought that violent acts and protests will likely increase before the upcoming case is decided. The device was safely removed and disabled by the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Bureau's bomb squad. More protests have also been taking place in venues throughout Bangkok and in outer provinces, but so far have remained mostly peaceful.

Justin Timberlake Tattoos - Between Music and Religion

Justin Timberlake has many tattoos - most of them are inspired by his religious belief. His family handed him down the passion for music and the faith in God. Two important aspects of his life, in which we can find the meaning of his tattoos.

Justin Randall Timberlake is a man of many talents: Pop singer, songwriter, extraordinary dancer, record producer, actor and much more.

He is not only good at making money and songs: former partner of Pop Star Britney Spears, he is now engaged with no less than super sexy Star Jessica Biel (not to mention the flirts with Cameron Diaz or Alyssa Milano).

He was born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1981. He had his TV debut within "The Mickey Mouse Club" show, which included other future Top tattooed Stars such as Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and JC Chasez (future band-mate in the N Sync).

As already mentioned, Justin Timberlake is a fervent believer. He was born in the so called Bible Belt, a big area of the United States stretching from Texas to Florida north to the State of Missouri. His grandfather was a Baptist minister and his father a choir director at a Baptist church.

That is why music and faith always had such important influence on Justin mind.

So, most of Justin Timberlake tattoos are inspired by his religious belief. Here is a list of his tattoos:

1 - a huge cross tattoo covers his left shoulder, symbolizing his faith in Christ;
2 - a second very large tattoo is placed on Justin Timberlake's back and represents a cherubic angel under the inscription "Guardian". This angel carries a banner with Justin's mother's initials but, as far as I could learn, the tattoo is dedicated to Timberlake's half-sister, Laura Katherine, who died shortly after her birth. She is also mentioned in his acknowledgments in the album NSYNC as "My Angel in Heaven".
3 - Justin's zodiac sign of "Aquarius" is tattooed around his calf.
4/5 - two NSync related tattoo: one is visible on his wrist and the other one is placed on his ankle.
6 - A Chinese character, which is supposed to mean "Music"

In 2004 big sensation was caused by some pictures about Justin Timberlake completely covered by tattoos. However, they were not real tattoos, just temporary ones, painted on Justin's body while starring in the movie "Top Dog".

Does God Order Our Steps?

We are all on a journey. This journey is to the heart of God. This journey is to be more like Jesus. It is to live our lives and follow God's direction. This journey is to the purpose and destiny God planned for us. But how does one travel on this journey? Each one of us has the ability to use a certain form of transportation on this journey. It is the steps we take in our walk with God. We are all confronted with decisions and choices. We need guidance and wisdom to make the right steps.

Life is a walk. Each day we take steps. Our tomorrow is determined by the steps we take today. One thing I've found out in my own life is that when I am following God's word and obeying His voice, I step correctly. It is when I try to do things on my own or ignore God's word that I take the wrong steps and end up down a road I never wanted to be.

Did you know that the words, "Path, steps, ways, walk, and go" all can express our journey in this life?

Psalm 119:105 (KJV)
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."

I like how the Contemporary English Version stats it: "Your word is a lamp that gives light wherever I walk."

And the Message expresses it this way:"By your words I can see where I'm going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path."

We all need a "beam of light on our dark path." God is the light of the world! He is Light. 1 John 1:5 states: "This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all."

Why not ask the God of light to show you where to take your next step? There have been many times in my life I didn't know what to do in some desperate situations. I would seek God and ask Him for direction. Sometimes He did not answer as quick as I would like. During the waiting time, I would love His word and walk in His ways. I did this because I love Him, not because I am obligated. There is pleasure in obedience. We worship God with our obedience. God honors our obedience and brings blessings to us.

In the Bible King David spoke about walking in His righteousness and how that pleased God;

2 Samuel 22:20 - 25, 33 & 34, 37 (TNIV)
"He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. The LORD has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me. For I have kept the ways of the LORD; I am not guilty of turning from my God. All his laws are before me; I have not turned away from his decrees. I have been blameless before him and have kept myself from sin. The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to my cleanness in his sight...It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer and causes me to stand on the heights...You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way."

One might read the above passage and think David is full of pride and arrogance. We can have a critical eye and think David is full of self-righteousness. But these passages are not written from an arrogant heart. They are from a heart who knows he is walking in obedience to God's word. David realized that God rewards and helps those who follow His laws. David wrote what He saw God do in his own life.

I journal almost every day and write down my heart to God. Often times I look at David's writings as his journaling to God. He poured out his thoughts and emotions to His God and expressing praise of what God has done in his life! God does reward and direct the steps of the righteous!

Psalm 37:23 & 24 (KJV)
"The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way."

God does order our steps as we follow and obey Him. We can be comforted to know that His rod and staff are there to correct and guide us (Psalm 23:4). Good News; our Good Shepherd is always with us guiding our every step. If we start to veer to the right or the left too much, the Good Shepherd comes with His staff of guidance, and His rod of correction, and gently nudges us back on the path we are to take.

Steps in our walk with God
The first step; Seek God's will.

If you don't know what to do about a decision you are facing right now, seek God and ask Him for direction. Stop trying to figure it out with your own understanding.

Proverbs 3:5 & 6(NKJV)
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

We need God's wisdom! King Solomon gave great advise to his son and we need to heed and do the same.

Proverbs 4:10 - 12, 18, 26 - 27 (NKJV)
"Hear my son, and receive my sayings, and the years of your life will be many. I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble... But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established. Do not turn to the right or the left; Remove your foot from evil."

Remember that the choices we make today will mold our tomorrow. Ask God to help you make good choices. We need to give up our control and allow God to have control of our lives. He knows what we need. He knows what steps we need to take and why.

Second step; Look for His direction.

He will show you where to walk if you would just look for His direction. Sometimes God directs us through His word. Other times He directs us through hearing Him speak in our hearts. God uses people, places, and even things to direct us.

God can place a thought in your heart and then confirm it by His word or by other ways. God will always confirm what He has been speaking to you. A friend might say something that triggers and pricks your heart to what God has said to you earlier. You might be driving down the road and you notice something and it brings to mind what God has spoken in your heart earlier. There are never coincidences in a Christian's life. Those so called, "coincidences" are really God speaking to you and giving you direction. Don't overlook God's confirmations and His flashes of light to bring vision to your path. You asked God for direction, receive it as an answer.

Third step; Obey what God tells you to do.

We can find ourselves in the wrong place at the wrong time simply because we didn't do what God was telling us to do, or we neglected to ask Him what we were supposed to be doing before we made decisions. Or perhaps we asked Him, but we failed to wait for an answer before we went ahead and did what we wanted to do. So much grief can be avoided by living an obedient life.

We serve a God who will pick us up if we fall or stumble. God knows we have trouble hearing Him sometimes. He is patient with us. Remember; the closer you get to God, the easier it is to hear His voice! I encourage you to snuggle right up into His lap and rest there knowing He receives you and wants to be close to you too. When you are in God's lap, and leaning on His chest, you truly hear His heartbeat and know His voice. It is a safe place to be.

If we make a mistake and fail, God will not condemn us. That is the work of the enemy. When we make a mistake, and come to the Father for mercy, He will give mercy. What ever you need from God today; be it direction, love, acceptance, wisdom, financial, emotional, or whatever you need, God will always receive us and listen to our cry for help.

Fourth step; Never be in a hurry.

Don't be in a hurry to make something happen in your life. That will only lead to a mistake. Steps take time. A baby never learns how to run first, they learn how to walk. Their steps are clumsy and unstable. That is the same way we are too. Don't be ashamed of your "baby steps" you are taking right now. They will eventually lead to bigger steps and take you places you've never been before.

If I am pressured to make a decision, I see it as a "red-flag." I've learned to wait and not make a decision under pressure. When in doubt... wait! It doesn't hurt to wait a few hours, a day, or even longer. God is not a God to pressure you into a decision. That is the character of our advisory, the devil. When God directs us, He will allow you time to make a choice. Remember He is gentle and loving. He never pressures you to quickly make a choice.

God will direct our steps and show us what path we are to walk as you give Him control and desire what He desires. If you are confused as to what to do in a decision you have to make, now is the time to seek what God wants. Lay down your desires and listen and wait for God to direct you into what path your feet are to walk.

How do we know we are walking in God's path for our life?

Deuteronomy 8:6 (HCSB)
"So keep the commands of the LORD your God by walking in His ways and fearing Him."

Obey the Lord and His instructions of His word. This is walking in His ways. Do it with a loving heart to please your Lord. God will always bless an obedient heart.

Fifth step; Take a step!

We can go from one end of the pendulum swing to the other. At one end we are in a hurry and step too quickly into something, or on the other end, we never take a step at all. Sometimes fear grips our hearts and it frightens us to do anything. We are afraid of making the wrong choice. We are afraid of failing. But if God has shown you something to do, step out in faith and take a step, even if you are afraid. Joyce Meyers has a saying, "Do it afraid!"

God will meet you in your act of faith and soon your fear will turn into strength to endure the unknown. It will feel awkward to step out in something you've never done before or walk where you've never walked before. I am sure Peter, when He stepped out of the boat onto the water, felt awkward. His flesh felt uncomfortable because he never stepped onto water before. But Peter pushed past his fear, and pushed past what his flesh felt like. He took the first step and began to walk on water. Your flesh will scream at you to STOP! Flesh wants comfort. Flesh wants its own way. But when we die to our flesh and press onto what God has for us, we step into a repositioning of God. Joseph was thrown into a pit. It was not at all the dream he had of his brothers bowing down to him. But what looked like a demotion, God was making it his first step in his promotion. Remember baby steps lead to bigger steps. It was a process Joseph had to go through to see the dreams from God come to completion. In the meantime, he lived an upright life and loved the Lord in all he did. God does not look away from that. As a matter of fact it draws God to us. Joseph's steps were ordered of the Lord because he was a good man who followed His God.

Below is a portion of my journaling I wrote to God August 29th. I think it sums up this entire article...

"The steps of a righteous man are ordered of the Lord. I am righteous because of what Your Son did on the cross for me. I am Your righteousness. I strive daily to follow Your will and continually ask You to show me what you want me to do in every area of my life. Therefore, I know my steps are ordered by You and You show me the right path for my life. I desire to increase and not decrease. I desire your way, your path, your steps for my life because you created me and You know exactly what I was created for. I might have an idea, but truly You know all and I lean on and trust the One who knows all.

"I take one step at a time and I know you are there at every step. If I stumble, You are there to pick me up. I don't have to be perfect to walk the path you laid out for me. I just trust You for each step knowing You light every step I am about to take so I can follow Your leading. I love You Lord for who You are in my life."

If you find yourself in sin, or in the middle of some bad choices/steps, God is there waiting to help you. God will show you where to step if you ask Him. But He is waiting for you to repent and turn from your sin. You tie up God's hands to help until you repent and turn to God for His direction. He can pick you up from the wrong path, and place you back on the right path, as you give Him back control of your life.

Take one step at a time as the Lord leads and directs you. Don't get frustrated when you don't see the entire path in front of you. We are in a "faith-walk." Each step is a step of faith! But always know that God is always there to make sure we stay on the right path.

Walking in faith,

The Meaning of Love in Ministry

For most people the meaning of love is to have strong and positive feelings for someone. And regardless of whatever truth there is in that...love manifested in ministry is not...and cannot be...based in feelings.

Just consider that all of Jesus' emotions in the Garden of Gethsemane were negative (Mt 26:37ff).
He was sorrowful unto death...
he was lonely because his companions fell asleep on him...
he was terrified of the impending crucifixion and prayed three times to be delivered from this redemptive act of love.

And on the cross...feeling abandoned by his Father...Jesus continued his ministry and performed a loving religious action toward one of the thieves crucified next to him (Lk 23:39ff)

Mother Theresa of Calcutta's faith was sorely tried. Her journal shows that she went through a period of doubting even the existence of God. It would take great faith for her to believe her work was worthwhile and had a purpose. And so, she continued her loving actions in the world with few consolations from God...whose existence for a while she doubted.

And so the meaning of love in ministry is based in a decision to carry out religious actions that bring both minister and people closer to God...whether the minister is full of joy and filled with the Spirit...or whether the minister feels lonely and abandoned...like Jesus did...or whether the minister has a crisis of faith like Mother Theresa had.

Defining ministry properly and the meaning love has in ministry...and how it is manifested...is necessary to prevent boundary problems that occur when ministers are having emotional and spiritual down times as they work in the vineyard.

Ghana - Winner Nation of African Cup of Nations 2008

There is this inspirational Tanzanian proverb which says: "He, who trusts in God, does not lack anything." Therefore, all patriotic and faithful Ghanaians who trust in God should please rise, face the geographical East, raise their hands towards heaven and sing praise to the Lord; for Ghana, our beloved country is already a winner for merely hosting the 26th Africa Cup of Nations tournaments (Ghana 2008) slated to kick off on Sunday, 20th January 2008.

Beloved humble and noble fellow Ghanaians, in March 2007, when Ghana was celebrating her Golden Jubilee anniversary, President John Agyekum Kufuor, made a very simple but profound statement which must not be taken for granted. He said, "It is a great time to be Ghanaian!" This writer wishes to implore all Ghanaians to pause for just a moment to concentrate, contemplate and meditate on this simple statement by the President as we embark on the next 50 years journey of our nationhood.

On Thursday, 10th January, 2008, the Daily Graphic wrote yet another nationalistic editorial under the heading, "New Era Dawns With Ghana 288." That editorial comment was based on an article, titled "Ghana will gain a lot as host," published on page 16 of that day's issue. The article itself was based on an interview granted the author, Lucy Adoma Yeboah, by the Hon Minister for Information and National Orientation, Mrs. Oboshie Sai Cofie in Accra. The purpose of this review is to encourage the media in Ghana, both print and electronic to emulate the example of the "Daily Graphic" by discussing issues of national interest with some touch of patriotism, especially at this time of the forth coming tournament, no matter what. After all, we have no other nation to call our own. But constructive criticisms are always welcome!

The opening paragraph of the said editorial read: "If there was nothing to be gained from hosting sub-regional, regional and global tournaments, countries would not go to the extent of setting up committees to lobby sporting authorities for the right to host those tournaments."

The next paragraph went on: "Indeed, countries go all out to build new stadias, rehabilitate existing ones, put new infrastructure and build roads, all at great cost, in order to win the right to host tournaments."

The paragraph three stated: "Ghana's hosting of the 26th Africa Cup of Nations tournament cannot be delinked from the benefits that accrue to hosting countries of sporting events."

The paper continued, "It is in this regard that we agree with the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mrs. Oboshie Sai Cofie, that Ghana was already 'the winner of the tournament' for the mere fact of being the host."

The fifth paragraph of the editorial quoted the Minister, thus: "Ghanaians should recognise the fact that we have already won in prestige, revenue generation, in showcasing our beautiful country and its people; we have won because of the fact that our children will grow to acknowledge that their country is considered important in the global environment," Mrs. Sai Cofie said in an interview.

Commenting on what the Information Minister had said in the interview, (see page 16 of Graphic of January 10, 2008), the paper wrote: "These are fine sentiments which the Daily Graphic would want every Ghanaian, male and female, young and old, to share, since they capture the very essence of hosting an international tournament of this nature.

"If for nothing at all," it continued, "The tournament will bring with it commercial and economic gains which will permeate all sectors of the economy, not to talk about the exposure the country will get from TV screening of the matches worldwide, especially the opening and closing ceremonies, the rebranding of the country's image abroad and potential to the outside world."

The paper then gave the following advice: "We at the Daily Graphic can only advise our compatriots to put our best foot forward during the period of the tournament, so that our visitors will have a confirmation of the legendary Ghanaian hospitality, culture and tradition."

Another vital point which Hon Oboshie Sai Cofie made in the interview with Lucy Adoma Yeboah, which, this writer deems imperative to mention here, was that, there was no need for any Ghanaian to feel down-hearted because of one reason or another, "but rather go all out and feel good because the tournament was taking place in Ghana and nowhere else." The Minister advised that people should stop complaining that there was no excitement in the air, adding that it was left for individuals and groups to come together to create the needed excitement.

The Minister further pointed out that the government had played its part by providing the entire necessary infrastructure for a successful tournament, stressing that, "It is left to us as a people to make the best out of the event." As a matter of fact it was stated that an amount of $157.2 million had so far been spent on the rehabilitation and construction of four stadia to host the tournament in the country. It was explained that the amount was said to have been exceeded the $152.1million initially projected by $5.1million.

It was very refreshing when the Finance and Economic Planning Minister, Hon Kwadwo Baah-Wiredu, recently stated emphatically in Parliament that it was the Government and for that matter the people of whose money was used to build the modern stadia for the tournament. If you are a Ghanaian and you are not proud of this achievement, then what will you be proud of? Every body knows that the rehabilitated stadia are the Ohene Djan Stadium in Accra and the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, while the newly constructed ones re in Tamale and Sekondi. As was promised by the President when the Ohene Djan Stadium was commissioned recently, all the ten regions of Ghana will have a magnificent modern stadium each in due course.

Furthermore, the Information Minister made a very creative suggestion in her interview with the GRAPHIC that, "If for nothing at all, individual and groups should hang national flags on their property and make the right noises in readiness for the tournament." She opined that the issue was not about winning but the need to look at other opportunities that would come along with the tournament.

As a matter of fact, if this tournament were to be taking place in any European country or in Nigeria here in Africa, inspiring and motivating noises would have been on everybody's lips from January to December non-stop. In Ghana, we should be shouting "Ghana, Ghana, And Ghana" and "Black Stars, Black Stars, Black Stars" from now until the hour the covetous trophy is handed over to the winner of the 16 participating African countries.

This author would want to add his voice to those of the Hon Information Minister and the Daily Graphic, which Ghanaians must be proud of being Ghanaians and be grateful and thankful to God that they are Ghanaians There are many nations in Africa and beyond whose citizens wish they were Ghanaians.

With Ghana's oil discovery in commercial quantity within this same period in the history of our beloved country, the sky cannot even be the limit for the prosperity of Ghanaians in the next 50 years. Ghana indeed, is poised to become a glorious land on the continent of Africa. As for Ghana 2008 tournament, we all pray that the gallant Black Stars will lift the trophy at stake. But whether they win or not Ghana Is a Winner by merely hosting the tournament.

My Minister Asked Me to Buy Clergy Robes for the Church - Where Do I Start?

If you have been asked by your minister to buy clergy robes for the church, you should not feel overwhelmed by the big responsibility. In fact, you should feel honored that your priest or clergy trusts you enough to give you this kind of task. However, it is important to know a few things about clergy robes before you go shopping for them. Although it is a kind of clothing item, shopping for a robe worn by religious leaders is a lot more complicated.

Shopping for clothes only requires you to have an eye for the fashionable and the not-so-fashionable. You should also pick the right size and color that will flatter your figure and natural color. But in terms of buying clergy robes, being fashionable does not matter. Size and color also matter but there are a lot more important things to consider than these minor details. You should take a look at the following tips for buying clergy robes.

You have to talk to your church pastor or clergy about the kind of robes that your church needs. He or she will be the one to tell you what you should look for. You can ask for pictures of real robes to give you an idea. You can also ask your clergy about other details such as sizes and the number of robes that you need to buy.
You should also do a little research about the different types of robes worn by clergymen. You have to know the right color, style, and other details that will be appropriate for your church. Clergymen from different churches wear different kinds of robes. It can be a difference in the color, insignias, length, or style. You have to know which one the clergymen in your church wear.
Once you know all the nitty-gritty of church garb for pastors and clergy, you can now find the right shop that sells these kinds of apparel. You will have a better chance at finding what you are looking for if you go online. It might be a bit difficult to find a brick and mortar shop that sells clergy robes.

Civil Magistrates and God's Law - Part One

True Christians recognize that "all authority has been given to [Jesus] in heaven and on earth" (Matthew 28:18). They readily admit that Jesus Christ is the Lord of their life, their family and the Church. However, these same Believers will often balk at admitting that Jesus Christ is Lord over civil magistrates as well. Nevertheless, the Bible says that the civil authority is "God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil" (Romans 13:4).

The word translated twice as "minister" in this passage is "diakonos" and means, "one who executes the commands of another, especially of a master; a servant, attendant, minister; the servant of a king." It is used elsewhere in the New Testament to describe someone who is a servant (Matthew 23:11, Mark 9:35), or a deacon (Philippians 1:1) in ecclesiastical affairs. In Romans 13:4 it is used to impart the simple fact that civil magistrates are servants of God. Thus, when Jesus said that all authority in heaven and earth had been given to him he did not exclude civil leaders from his lordship.

The reason many Christians refuse to accept these plain words of Scripture is because they confuse the Lordship of Jesus Christ with the authority of the Church. In other words, many Christians have accepted the false idea that a civil magistrate who obeys the Word of God is a civil magistrate who is in submission to ecclesiastical control. Yet, this is not what the Bible says.

In past articles I have written about the separate spheres of influence given to the primary institutions. We have noted that the Bible teaches a doctrine of "sphere sovereignty" for the Individual, the Family, the Church and the State. Each of these have an authority structure designed to govern the members of each institution. In families, the Father is the head of the household. In the Church, elders and deacons provide leadership. Kings, governors, magistrates and so on, wield authority in the State Each institution is under the direct authority of the Lord Jesus and none of them is supposed to be dominant over the others. Certainly, there will be interaction between them. Just as certain is the fact that man in his fallen state will make a mess of what God intended.

Unregenerate men deny the Lordship of Jesus Christ and attempt to combat any effort to bring the civil realm under the authority of the Messiah in a variety of ways. The primary approach in the USA these days is to claim that there is an indelible wall of separation between Church and State and any suggestion that civil rulers must submit to Jesus is verboten. This is merely a smokescreen. We have already established that there is a particular wall of separation between Church and State. However, that wall has nothing to do with the fact that the civil government is a servant of King Jesus.

And, as servants of Jesus, the civil authorities have the duty to govern according to the Word of the King. In other words, the civil government is supposed to rule according to the law of God as found in the Bible.

Soul Winning, The Ministry of Reconciliation

Unsponsored, unwelcomed, unloved--made little difference to the apostle Paul. He pressed on to bear testimony of the Savior of his soul. On he went, never burning out, never succumbing to religious councils and maneuverings that sought to quench his fiery zeal for Christ. Paul was blind to every jewel of earthly honor. As a chosen vessel, his sole purpose was to bear Christ's name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel (Acts 9:15). Deaf to the voice of his persecutors, Paul was of good cheer with the Lord by his side (Acts 23:11). Insensitive to the mesmerism of worldly success, Paul was enraptured with the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus his Lord (Phil. 3:8).

Leonard Ravenhill said of Paul, "This wandering Jew 'made war' on all that made war on God and on the children of men. This prince of preachers and his foe, the prince of hell, spared each other no beatings. It was a free-for-all and no holds barred!"

One writer stated: "In the various crises that have occurred in the history of the Church, men have come to the front who have manifested a holy recklessness that astonished their fellows. When Luther nailed his thesis to the door of the cathedral at Wittenberg, cautious men were astonished at his audacity. When John Wesley ignored all church restrictions and religious propriety and preached in the fields and by-ways, men declared his reputation was ruined. So it has been in all ages. When the religious condition of the times called for men who were willing to sacrifice all for Christ, the demand created the supply, and there have always been found a few who were willing to be regarded reckless for the Lord. An utter recklessness concerning men's opinions and other consequences is the only attitude that can meet the exigencies of the present times."

When the fire of God's Spirit takes hold of you, there will be a new ability to communicate, an oratory skill that compels you to speak. David said, "My heart was hot within me; while I was musing, the fire burned; then spoke I with my tongue" (Ps. 39:3).

The immediate and normal response to the fire of the Spirit burning your heart is to speak with your tongue and tell someone. The reason we have Bibles and churches throughout the world today is because the fire of God's Spirit has burned hearts through the centuries and compelled them to tell someone.

Arise and tell someone near you the good news of Jesus Christ lest their blood be on your hands for eternity because of your neglect and apathy (Ezekiel 3:18). Everyone has a testimony. Tell someone what good things God has done for you today. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).

Releasing the Hon Louis Farrakhan From a Prison of Public Opinion by Telling the Truth of Him

The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan has said many times that he feels like he is in a prison. He explains that it is not a prison made of steel bars and concrete walls, but rather a prison of "public opinion" and "propaganda". This is a man who has been labeled by mainstream society, and you know who that is, as a racist, anti-semite, anti-Christian, anti-gay, anti-white and many other anti labels. So, this creates a prison for the minister that creates a "cut off" from others coming close to him due to fear of association.

I am one of many who has benefited by his ministry and am here to help my brother, leader teacher and guide get out of his prison by telling the truth of him.

Those of us who follow him and others who respect him use the title honorable in addressing Minister Farrakhan. Obviously we, who use such a title, have a different view of the man and his message than mainstream society. So, why do we say that Louis Farrakhan is worthy of honor?

What does Honorable mean?

According to the Merrrian Webster Dictionary online Honorable is defined as,

"#1 Deserving of honor. #2 attesting to credible conduct: consistent with untarnished reputation. #3 characterized by integrity: guided by a high sense of honor or duty."

The title honorable is usually reserved for judges or governmental officials. For example a judge is referred to as "Your honor".

Therefore, when we look at the 54 year record of consistent service by The Honorable Louis Farrakhan to black people and humanity we are compelled to add such a title to his name by the work he has done and continues to do.

In conclusion, I would like to point out a few of his works that I know of which makes him deserving of the title Honorable.

#1 The book of John 1:1 teaches in the beginning was the word and the word became flesh. One of the greatest works of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan has been his delivering the word of God in a manner that is relevant to the society we live in.

#2 After the fall of the Nation of Islam, which represented the strongest all black organization, the Minister started working in 1977 to rebuild the Nation, which gives guidance, hope and inspiration to millions. He bought back and made available the books of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad-containing the divine guidance of God.

#3 The Minister called for a million and nearly two million men showed up on October 16th, 1995 for a day of atonement and reconciliation.

#4 The Minister has worked since his rebuilding the Nation of Islam to tear down artificial barriers between Muslim/Christian brothers and sisters and encourage our unity based on the oneness of God.

#5 The Minister has intervened in the "beefs" of rappers in the hip hop world. After the deaths of the Notorious Big and Tupac, the Minister organized hip hop summits to counsel and encourage the rappers to present better material to their listeners.

#6 The Minister is not just a black leader based on the south side of Chicago, but rather He is a man that has travelled the entire planet earth teaching the divine truth of God, atonement and reconciliation to the whole human family.

#7 The Minister in 1979 founded what would become the number one black independently published and distributed newspaper, The Final Call Newspaper.

#8 Last but not least, I consider the Honorable Louis Farrakhan a honorable man, because of the impact and influence he has had over my life. He found me spiritually, mentally, culturally, emotionally dead and living a life which produces early death, however by means of his ministry I began the journey towards being one with God and becoming a greater servant of humanity.

Thank you for reading these few words.

Ministers Success Secrets - What Denominations, Bible Colleges, Seminaries & Churches Don't Teach

As a worldwide minister I learned the success secrets denominations, Bible colleges, seminaries & churches don't teach. It wasn't easy. I struggled financially for years, believing the illusions denominations, churches, ministers, and many pastors tried to sell me.

After 15 years I realized God alone wasn't going to bring me wealth, success, and financial independence. I had to put feet to my faith and strategically do something specifically. Undoubtedly, to do the same things year after year repeatedly was not working.

Yes, countless people were being blessed, but I was being short changed and left empty financially. That is until I finally began to figure out financially how ministry works, or can work so you can do well by doing good. Otherwise without making the necessary adjustment I would continue to struggle for decades and leave both myself and my family angry and disillusioned at God. Certainly this was not helping me, my family, nor anybody.

Truly it is sad and pains me to see ministers struggling financially, believing God wholeheartedly, and being so dynamically gifted. There must be some success secrets ministers have failed to discover to connect their word power & knowledge of God to the wealth they so desperately need to achieve success and financial independence.

As I traveled throughout the world and began to honestly examine the reasons why people were asking me to come speak and minister in their churches, I discovered some very revealing points.

1. Ministers throughout the world are struggling financially.

Some immediately think of third world and war-torn nations. Certainly they are struggling there, but in America ministers are struggling to survive and get by daily as well. Relying on people to sporadically give a tithe or offering is not working, nor ensuring ministers the success they desire.

2. Ministers throughout the world have not properly and thoroughly been taught how to prosper.

Most denominations, Bible colleges, seminaries, and churches simply teach ministers to give saying, "You reap what you sow." Quoting and obeying giving scriptures alone does not ensure your prosperity. Unfortunately, many people look at tithes and offerings as a guaranteed lottery.

3. Ministers want to grow their ministries, churches, and bank accounts even though they may not communicate such publicly.

Yes, ministers deeply desire to have a transformative impact upon the people to whom they minister, but the same time ministers want to do well themselves, while they do good.

What good is it for a minister and his / her family if they give of themselves continually, tirelessly, and consistently only at the end to be found and come up wanting financially.

Let's face the facts, ministers do not like being broke, busted, and disgusted. When they are they become angry at God and disillusioned about ministry. Thereafter if such is not resolved, their anger toward God leads to bitterness, backsliding, and the end of the minister's ministry altogether.

So the question remains, why do ministers have such a hard time with success, financial independence, and making money as they do ministry?

If you are a minister (or former minister) and are presently angry at God, disillusioned, or bitter I would love to hear from you and know your personal story.