S J Fort

IT'S BEEN A WHILE!

2011-08-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

Since the last time the Canaan Missionary Baptist church website was updated- and the button connecting the website to this bog was not included- I have not written any blogs.

It's been a while and much has taken place.

In addition to personal growth and development The LORD Jesus Christ has blessed me with opportunities to declare His Word at a variety of places to include Pastor Appreciation service, church anniversary celebrations and even an opportunity to preach in Nottinghamshire England while attending the Proclaimers Place Oxford 2011 conference with the inimitable Dr. Joel C. Gregory.

As I write this blog I am at the Holiday Inn Express in Sierra Vista Arizona with my wife Angela and our youngest daughter Kennedi. We're here in celebration of the pastor and wife appreciation weekend honoring Rev. Shawn L. Buckhanan and his wife Roslyn. Angela has been asked to speak this evening and I've been asked to speak tomorrow. The weekend will close out with the one and only Rev. D. Previn Carr, pastor of Ekklesia Christian Church in north Phoenix preaching on Sunday.

Thank you LORD for your lovingkindness and tender mercies toward all of us.

Pray for me. I'm praying with and for you.

safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

EXCITED ABOUT THE POSSIBILITIES!

2011-05-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

"For I know the plans I have for you says The LORD ..."
-Jeremiah 29:11

I'm in the midst of being RE-ENERGIZED" for ministry. My focus is becoming clearer and I'm counting the cost of discipleship in a fresh way.

Look for some CHRIST-centered, Bible regulated, HOLY SPIRIT led and very basic things from Pastor Fort and Canaan Missionary Baptist church in the near future.

Pray for me. I'm praying with and for you.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

Holy Harmony and Biblical Balance #2

2011-05-13T21:13:00.001-07:00

I haven't written much on my blog in some time. And even now as I write this short piece I'm immediately reminded that this subject matter is one I've visited before.

In recent weeks as in in recent years, The LORD has been unusually kind to me in that He has allowed me to receive invitations to preach or teach at a number of places for various occasions.

That said, I am reminded of the fact that every invitation we receive to do whatever it is we are called and commissioned by The LORD to do is not for us to take. In truth each invitation should be prayed over and we should receive clearance from The LORD before we say "yes". In the last month I initially accepted two invitations only to later pull out of each invitation due to circumstances. I think I knew I had no business saying "yes" in the first place ... but I did. And they were so called "good" invitations too.

But you know what? No invitation is a "good" invitation if that invitation is not intended for you. We can get in our own way, get in God's way and get in another believer's way when we accept invitations we should not take.

Finally, I want to say something about balance and harmony- about putting first things first. I'm reading a book now, recommended to me by another pastor titled: "Leading On Empty" by Wayne Cordeiro. It's a good book that speaks about the need to prioritize our lives.

This is the piece I blogged about before. And for the record I'm still working on it. Wayne Cordeiro writes that most of what we do can be done by other people. He goes on to say that we need to focus on the five percent that matters most. These are the things that only we can do.

Among the five percent is the development of our personal relationship with Jesus Christ

Are you focusing on the five percent?

Have a harmonious and balanced night. Have a holy and Bible-based night.

Remember to: KNOW CHRIST AND MAKE HIM KNOWN ... today!

safe in CHRIST,
sherman j. fort

LORD HAVE MERCY!

2011-05-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

It's been a good while since I last shared anything on my blog.

That said, I'll keep it short today.

Osama Bin-Laden is dead. Mubarak is out as the leader of Egypt. Many in Lybia want their leader Moamar Ghadafi out. Thus there's an internal war going on right now. There's unrest on the continent of Asia. There is craziness right here in America.

Jesus is coming soon!

Are you ready? If not, you can be right now! Place your faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and LORD! Do it today.

agape,
pastor fort

THE FIRST FAMILY

2011-04-04T06:28:00.000-07:00

Our Scripture Text
Genesis 3:1-19 (New International Version)

1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”

2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3 but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’”

4 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.

8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the LORD God called to the man, “Where are you?”

10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.”

11 And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?”

12 The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.”

13 Then the LORD God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?”

The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.”

14 So the LORD God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this,

“Cursed are you above all livestock
and all wild animals!
You will crawl on your belly
and you will eat dust
all the days of your life.
15 And I will put enmity
between you and the woman,
and between your offspring[a] and hers;
he will crush[b] your head,
and you will strike his heel.”

16 To the woman he said,

“I will make your pains in childbearing very severe;
with painful labor you will give birth to children.
Your desire will be for your husband,
and he will rule over you.”

17 To Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat from it,’

“Cursed is the ground because of you;
through painful toil you will eat food from it
all the days of your life.
18 It will produce thorns and thistles for you,
and you will eat the plants of the field.
19 By the sweat of your brow
you will eat your food
until you return to the ground,
since from it you were taken;
for dust you are
and to dust you will return.”

SERMON TITLE: THE FIRST FAMILY!
SERMON TEXT: Genesis 3:1-19
SPEAKER: Pastor Sherman J. Fort

1. THE SETTING!
2.
a. It was a LUSH garden.

b. It was a LAVISH garden.

c. It was a L___________________ garden.

3. THE SITUATION!
4.
a. It was a TEST.

b. It was a matter of TRUST.

c. It was a matter of TRUTH.

5. THE SOLUTION!

a. Take RESPONSIBILITY.

b. God’s REPLACEMENT.

DEACON JAMES C. McCLELLAND

2011-04-01T05:16:00.001-07:00

Yesterday morning, March 31, 2011 Deacon James C. McClelland transitioned from earth to heaven!

To God be the glory for a life well lived. For a man who loves The LORD, loves his family and provided a consistent example of hard work and a commitment to Jesus Christ as his legacy.

"Blessed are the dead which die in The Lord, ... that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them". -Revelation 14:13

KNOW CHRIST AND MAKE HIM KNOWN!

Agape,
pastor fort

PRAYING WITH AND FOR THE MEN OF CANAAN!

2011-04-01T05:09:00.000-07:00

Real men love God! Real men love their families! Real men hold one another accountable!

I am grateful to our God for His love, mercy and grace. I am grateful and excited that several of the men of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church will participate in this years Annual Men's Retreat. In fact, I'm told that this year will be the greatest year in terms of attendance at the men's retreat.

The retreat takes place at Camp Tontozona ... up north. Some will know this site as the location for the ASU (Arizona State University) football teams training ground.

Once again, I have obligations and commitments that will prevent me from going this year. Nevertheless I want the men of Canaan to know I am praying WITH you and FOR you.

My prayer is that God's will- will be done! That you will be changed by the power of God's love, impacted by the presence of The Holy Spirit and changed by the power of The Word of God.

To the ladies of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church and to our church family at large- remember to pray for our men and encourage them. A special thank you to the men who organize this event each year and work with the men's ministry at large. They include Bro. Ben Richardson, Min. Raymond Cook, Bro. Gary Miller, Bro. Fred Bussey and others.

Remember to: KNOW CHRIST AND MAKE HIM KNOWN!

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

SHOW LOW ARIZONA!

2011-03-27T04:48:00.000-07:00

It's just before 5:00AM on Sunday, March 27, 2011.

I'm blessed and honored again today to have been asked by my friend and brother in Christ, Pastor Matt Gaston- to preach in Show Low Arizona this morning.

Show Low Arizona is about three hours and forty minutes from where I live in Chandler Arizona. That said, it is clear this is not one of those Sundays where I will preach at Canaan and then go on to preach in Show Low Arizona.

Instead, I hope to leave here in about an hour headed to Show Low. Accompanying me on this drive will be my nephew, Marcus Greer; and one of the trustees from Canaan Church, James Bowman.

The Reverend Michael J. Collier, pastor of Divine Word Ministries in Mesa Arizona is scheduled to preach the early service at Canaan; and the Reverend Keith McAllister, associate minister at Canaan is scheduled to preach the late worship service at Canaan.

I trust our God is going to use each of them for His glory and our good today.

Pray for me that our God will use me for His glory and honor today.

Remember to "KNOW CHRIST AND MAKE HIM KNOWN" today.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

THANK GOD FOR PASTOR JAMES N. P RESTON

2011-03-27T04:39:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I had the unique privilege of preaching at Bethesda Community Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona where the Reverend James N. Preston serves as pastor.

It was truly a unique situation in that Bethesda Community Baptist Church was formerly (and first) known as Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, under the the leadership of it's founder and pastor, the Reverend Wesley Jones Sr.

One bit of the uniqueness for me comes in the fact that both Pastor Preston and Pastor Jones have been my pastor. I was with Pastor Preston when he served as pastor of Willow Grove Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona; and Pastor Jones when he served as pastor of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church.

A few days ago when I was asked to preach for the closing service for Pastor and Sis. Preston's 14 year Anniversary program- both Pastor Preston and Pastor Jones were present.

In addition to these men there were other, equally noteworthy persons present. Including the inimitable Bishop Henry L. Barnwell among others. The guest churches, choirs, dance ministry, ... were all sourcees of encouragement.

All that said, I simply want to thank The LORD Jesus Christ for the opportunity to declare His Word once again.

And thank you, Pastor Preston for the privilege of coming to Bethesday Community Baptist Church. I was encouraged as I heard of the wonderful things The LORD has allowed the church to accomplish- most notably to be debt free.

To God be the glory!

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

FAMILY MATTERS!

2011-03-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

OUR SCRIPTURE TEXT:
Luke 15:11-32 (New King James Version)

11 Then He said: “A certain man had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father,
‘Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.’
So he divided to them his livelihood.

13 And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. 14 But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want. 15 Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything.

17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare,
and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you,
19 and I am no longer worthy to be called your son.
Make me like one of your hired servants.”’

20 “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him.
21 And the son said to him,
‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight,
and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

22 “But the father said to his servants,
‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet.
23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it,
and let us eat and be merry;
24 for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.

25 “Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.
26 So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him,
‘Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.’

28 “But he was angry and would not go in.
Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him.
29 So he answered and said to his father,
‘Lo, these many years I have been serving you;
I never transgressed your commandment at any time;
and yet you never gave me a young goat,
that I might make merry with my friends.
30 But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots,
you killed the fatted calf for him.’

31 “And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. 32 It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.’”

FAMILY MATTERS
Our Scripture Text: Luke 15:11-32

1. SELF-ISHNESS!
Luke 15:11-20

He was Self- ISH in his REQUEST.
He had some real WORLD experiences.
He experienced RADICAL clarity.

2. SELF - RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Luke 15:25-30

Notice his RESPONSE to his brothers return.

a) He was ANGRY.
b) He ANALYZED the wrong person.
c) He was present mentally, but ABSENT
emotionally.

3. SELF-LESS!
Luke 15:20-24; 31, 32

He was LONGINGfor his son.
He continued LOOKING for his son.
He never stopped LOVING his son.

Notice the Robe, the Ring, the Sandals.

Problems in The Church!

2011-03-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

1. The Problem of CARE!
1 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.
2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.
3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom,
whom we may appoint over this business;
4 but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas,
a proselyte from Antioch,
6 whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.
7 Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.
-Acts 6:1-7 (TMB)

2. The Problem of COURT!
1st Corinthians 6:-11 (The Message Bible)

1-4And how dare you take each other to court! When you think you have been wronged, does it make any sense to go before a court that knows nothing of God's ways instead of a family of Christians? The day is coming when the world is going to stand before a jury made up of followers of Jesus. If someday you are going to rule on the world's fate, wouldn't it be a good idea to practice on some of these smaller cases? Why, we're even going to judge angels! So why not these everyday affairs? As these disagreements and wrongs surface, why would you ever entrust them to the judgment of people you don't trust in any other way?
5-6I say this as bluntly as I can to wake you up to the stupidity of what you're doing. Is it possible that there isn't one levelheaded person among you who can make fair decisions when disagreements and disputes come up? I don't believe it. And here you are taking each other to court before people who don't even believe in God! How can they render justice if they don't believe in the God of justice?
7-8These court cases are an ugly blot on your community. Wouldn't it be far better to just take it, to let yourselves be wronged and forget it? All you're doing is providing fuel for more wrong, more injustice, bringing more hurt to the people of your own spiritual family.
9-11Don't you realize that this is not the way to live? Unjust people who don't care about God will not be joining in his kingdom. Those who use and abuse each other, use and abuse sex, use and abuse the earth and everything in it, don't qualify as citizens in God's kingdom. A number of you know from experience what I'm talking about, for not so long ago you were on that list. Since then, you've been cleaned up and given a fresh start by Jesus, our Master, our Messiah, and by our God present in us, the Spirit.

3. The Problem of CARNALITY!
1-2I also received a report of scandalous sex within your church family, a kind that wouldn't be tolerated even outside the church: One of your men is sleeping with his stepmother. And you're so above it all that it doesn't even faze you! Shouldn't this break your hearts? Shouldn't it bring you to your knees in tears? Shouldn't this person and his conduct be confronted and dealt with?
3-5I'll tell you what I would do. Even though I'm not there in person, consider me right there with you, because I can fully see what's going on. I'm telling you that this is wrong. You must not simply look the other way and hope it goes away on its own. Bring it out in the open and deal with it in the authority of Jesus our Master. Assemble the community—I'll be present in spirit with you and our Master Jesus will be present in power. Hold this man's conduct up to public scrutiny. Let him defend it if he can! But if he can't, then out with him! It will be totally devastating to him, of course, and embarrassing to you. But better devastation and embarrassment than damnation. You want him on his feet and forgiven before the Master on the Day of Judgment.

2nd Corinthians 2:5-11 (The Message Bible)
5-8Now, regarding the one who started all this—the person in question who caused all this pain—I want you to know that I am not the one injured in this as much as, with a few exceptions, all of you. So I don't want to come down too hard. What the majority of you agreed to as punishment is punishment enough. Now is the time to forgive this man and help him back on his feet. If all you do is pour on the guilt, you could very well drown him in it.
My counsel now is to pour on the love.

9-11The focus of my letter wasn't on punishing the offender but on getting you to take responsibility for the health of the church. So if you forgive him, I forgive him. Don't think I'm carrying around a list of personal grudges. The fact is that I'm joining in with your forgiveness, as Christ is with us, guiding us. After all, we don't want to unwittingly give Satan an opening for yet more mischief—
we're not oblivious to his sly ways!

2nd Corinthians 7:8-12 (The Message Bible)
8-9I know I distressed you greatly with my letter. Although I felt awful at the time, I don't feel at all bad now that I see how it turned out. The letter upset you, but only for a while. Now I'm glad—not that you were upset, but that you were jarred into turning things around. You let the distress bring you to God, not drive you from him. The result was all gain, no loss.
10Distress that drives us to God does that. It turns us around. It gets us back in the way of salvation. We never regret that kind of pain. But those who let distress drive them away from God are full of regrets, end up on a deathbed of regrets.
11-13And now, isn't it wonderful all the ways in which this distress has goaded you closer to God? You're more alive, more concerned, more sensitive, more reverent, more human, more passionate, more responsible. Looked at from any angle, you've come out of this with purity of heart. And that is what I was hoping for in the first place when I wrote the letter. My primary concern was not for the one who did the wrong or even the one wronged, but for you—that you would realize and act upon the deep, deep ties between us before God. That's what happened—and we felt just great.

The Priority of The Church!

2011-03-17T17:32:00.000-07:00

Our Scripture Text: Acts 1:8b
“And you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem,
and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the end of the earth.”
-Acts 1:8b (New King James Version)

1. The Priority is Mandatory!
“… you SHALL BE witnesses to Me …” -Acts 1:8

2. The Priority involves your being a Martyr!
“… you shall be WITNESSES to Me …” -Acts 1:8

3. The Priority is to be carried out Globally!
“ … in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the END OF THE EARTH.” -Acts 1:8

The Power in The Church!

2011-03-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

Our Scripture Text: Acts 1:8a
8 “But you shall receive power
when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;” -Acts 1:8a

1. It’s Promised Power!
16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.
18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

2. It’ Supernatural Power!
“… when The Holy Spirit has come upon you;” -Acts 1:8

3. It’s Personal Power!
“ …you shall receive power …” -Acts 1:8

4. It’s Dynamic, Life Changing Power!
“power” -Acts 1:8

Word Study: Power- Power (1411) (dunamis from dunamai = to be able, to have power) power especially achieving power. It refers to intrinsic power or inherent ability, the power or ability to carry out some function, the potential for functioning in some way (power, might, strength, ability, capability), the power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature.
Dunamis is the implied ability or capacity to perform. It conveys the idea of effective, productive energy, rather than that which is raw and unbridled.

The People In The Church!

2011-03-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

1” The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 until the day in which He was taken up, after He through the Holy Spirit had given commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen, …” -Acts 1:1, 2 (New King James Version)
13 “And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James. 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication,[b] with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.”
-Acts 1:13, 14 (NKJV)

5” And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven”. –Acts 2:5 (NKJV)

“And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” 41 Then those who gladly[g] received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.” –Acts 2:40, 41 (NKJV)

1 “Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists,[a] because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. 2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. 3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; 4 but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch, 6 whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.
7 Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.” –Acts 6:1-7 (NKJV)

1. The Leadership
“… the apostles whom He had chosen, …” -Acts 1:2b

2. The Laity
“And when they had entered,” -Acts 1:13a

3. The Large Diversity
“… devout men, from every nation under heaven”. –Acts 2:5b

4. The Laborers
“Seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of The Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business;” Acts 6:3a

Sermon: The Promise of The Church!

2011-03-17T17:03:00.000-07:00

Our Text: Matthew 16:13-18 (New King James Version)

13 When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi,
He asked His disciples, saying,
“Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”
14 So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah,
and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”
16 Simon Peter answered and said,
“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
17 Jesus answered and said to him,
“Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah,
for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you,
but My Father who is in heaven.
18 And I also say to you that you are Peter,
and on this rock I will build My church,
and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”

The Promise of The Church

1. It was a Righteous Promise!

2. It was a Revealed Promise!

3. It was a solid Rock Promise!

4. It was a Redemptive Promise!

THANK GOD FOR DR. BERNARD BLACK!

2011-02-10T05:40:00.001-08:00

Rev. Dr. Bernard Black is without question one of my favorite preachers! But more than being a favorite preacher of mine, Dr. Bernard Black is a man who loves The LORD Jesus Christ and has served him faithfully for more than four decades as Pastor of the famed South Phoenix Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona.

In addition to his service as a committed and caring pastor, Dr. Black has a long history of service as President of the General Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona Incorporated as well as serving on the national level for the National Missionary Bapstist State Convention of America Incorporated.

The LORD has blessed Dr. Black to accomplish a number of things for His glory and our good. Those things include such blessings as: The Bernard Black Elementary School in Phoenix Arizona is named for this great preacher and good citizen. The still relatively new construction and addition of a new Fellowship Hall/Multi-Purpose space at South Phoenix Baptist Church, etc.

All that said, Dr. Black will be honored this Saturday, February 12, 2011 at a special event held in his honor. The event will be held in the Hope Center of the First Institutional Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., pastor, in Phoenix Arizona.

It's my understanding that there are no more seats available. All tables have been sold out. If you have not on tap to attend this event, will you please join me in thanking our God for Pastor Black and say a special prayer for him, his family and his church.

For your years of Christian service to our God and His church ... THANK YOU DR. BLACK!

Safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

HALLELUJAH!

2011-02-02T15:33:00.000-08:00

GOD IS AWESOME!

It's been a little while since my last blog.

I've been busy with several things.

Our revival just ended. The LORD JESUS CHRIST really used our guest preacher, the Reverend Jerry M. Carter Jr.

Thank you JESUS!

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

PRAYER & FASTING CONTINUED!

2011-01-19T06:52:00.000-08:00

GOD is better than great ... Period!

To God be the glory. Here's an update on a few things:

1) Prayer and fasting continue to go well. My diet of late has been beans and rice (pinto beans and brown rice with white onion); natural chips, apples and water. Two days ago I ate some green beans and a chicken patty that Sis. Fort baked. It too was good.

2) My annual doctors appointment went well. I still seem to have some residue of a cold or flu. However, I've asked The Lord to remove it. God is good. I have not experienced the full blown cold/flu that m baby girl has. Praise The Lord!

Keep Sis. Fort in prayer. She is scheduled to have her last medical procedure (in connection with her upper neck and back pain); today. I believe all will be well.

Remember to pray for yourself and one another. And for me.

Strive today to: "Know CHRIST And Make Him Known".

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

A NEW DAY!

2011-01-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

Good day everyone.

First of all a quick update on the doctors appointment that did not take place yesterday. I wrote in my last blog that I was scheduled to have a doctors appointment yesterday, however that did not take place. Instead, Sis. Fort (thank The Lord); had an appointment. It was the first of two that will prayerfully result in the permanent end to pain and discomfort she's had in her neck and upper back.

I added meat to my fasting diet. Specifically, I added salmon (I had it the first time today, Jan. 15, 2011); and lamb. Yes, something I've had only once or twice before in my life. As I thought about a meat to eat lamb came to mind- in part because I think of The Lamb of God (The LORD JESUS CHRIST). And in part because I was thinking of the middle-east diet and what meats they might eat.

In any case, it was very good.

After eating the lamb I went another day with just fruit, vegetables and water. Yesterday I had my mix of peppers, onions and broccoli over brown rice. Today I had spinach with pieces of salmon cut up. No salad dressing. No salt or pepper. Just spinach and pieces of salmon. It was delicious. I had a piece of fruit earlier too. And as usual just water to drink.

Remember to pray for yourself and one another. And for me, that The LORD will use me for His glory and my good.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

Day 13 of Prayer & Fasting!

2011-01-13T10:58:00.000-08:00

For the past few days I've experienced heart palpitations. I have set my regular/annual doctors appointment for tomorrow morning. I'll ask tomorrow about this matter of my fasting and the palpitations.

That said, I've decided to add some protein to my diet today. It will be in the form of vitamins and possibly some fish (Salmon) to be exact.

I had a grapefruit this morning and water.

Pray for me. Keep one another in prayer.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

Prayer and Fasting Continued

2011-01-12T20:23:00.000-08:00

Since Sunday my diet, while involved in our season of prayer and fasting has included the afore-mentioned mix of peppers, onions and brown rice.

Since Sunday I have also had whole wheat popcorn and potato. Perhaps the most refreshing thing I've eaten lately has been grapefruit. Yum.

Of course my drink has been water.

Have a wonderful evening in CHRIST JESUS.

I continue to pray with and for my biological family, my Christian family and my human family.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

SUNDAY, JANUARY 9, 2011- STILL FASTING!!

2011-01-10T06:34:00.000-08:00

The pastor and members of CMBC are still on our 30 1/2 Days of Prayer and Fasting!

My diet yesterday, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2011 consisted of the classic dish of Black Eyed Peas and brown rice. To this dish I added white onion.

Again I had peanuts and raisins and popcorn as a snack.

I may need to add some other foods before the full fast time is up. I'm feeling a few things in my body that may indicate the same. That said, I'm also feeling lighter and better in terms of my overall health and well being.

Late last night- around midnight I got up and ate some "Natural Chips". They were different... but good.

I want to thank our GOD and Father; JESUS CHRIST our Savior and The HOLY SPIRIT our constant company keeper for His love, mercy and grace.

Worship services at CMBC were great yesterday. The LORD really used the music ministry and The WORD of God was presented. To my CMBC family and fellow followers of "The Way"- remember to pray for one another.

Our goal today, this week, this month, this year... throughout the rest of our lives is to: "Know Christ and Make Him Known". Let's pray to that end.

Have a great and glorious day.

Safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

PRAYING & FASTING... DAYS 7 AND 8!!!

2011-01-08T18:55:00.000-08:00

Each of the last two days I have consumed basically the same foods. Namely, a mixuture of peppers, green onions and broccoli over brown rice... all cooked in water.

I also had mashed potato, with raisins and peanuts as a snack.

And oh yes, I introduced another snack as well. Popcorn. No butter, just lightly salted. My drink still is only water.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

Still Praying & Fasting!

2011-01-07T14:53:00.000-08:00

Today, Friday, January 7, 2011 I've eaten my delicious mixture of: red peppers, broccoli and green onions over brown rice. All cooked in water.

I've also eaten peanuts and raisins.

My drink has been water.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

WHAT I ATE ... WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2011- CMBC PRAYER & FASTING!

2011-01-06T05:32:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone,

It's Pastor Fort.

First, let me say to God be the glory for the things HE has done, is doing and shall yet perform.

Next, let me say to my brother Bruce Cooper (who admitted to slipping up a little yesterday with respect to the fasting portion of our prayer and fasting commitment for January)- I messed up yesterday too.

I ate some butter toffee peanuts. One of the wonderful couples at CMBC, Bro. & Sis. Goram, very sweetly gave Sis. For and I a gift tray that had three different kind of peanuts in it. One third of the peanuts were simply regular peanuts. The other two thirds were different.

Over the last few days I would eat some of the plain peanuts, but last night after returning from picking up my sister Margo (she's visiting from Minnesota) up from the airport, I ate some of those other peanuts.

That's the first time I've eaten anything this month like that. I don't intend to do it again.

That said, my diet yesterday consisted of: A brown rice and sliced mushroom mixture and of course water.

Have a great day today and remember to pray for yourself and one another.

safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort

PRAYER & FASTING CONTINUED ... DAY 4!

2011-01-05T05:18:00.000-08:00

It's Wednesday morning, January 5th 2011.

First, here's a quick update on what I consumed yesterday, January 4th, 2011 during our fast.

On Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011 I went to work without preparing a lunch to take with me. I was at work all day. Arriving around 6:20AM and leaving after Bible study that evening around 9:00PM.

Our church office staff paused at 12:00PM and prayed in conjunction with our church-wide Prayer & Fasting commitment.

While at work I ate at one banana and at least three apples. I also ate peanuts. After getting home last night I ate more of the brown rice and great white northern beans I made the day before. Remember the rice and beans were cooked in water. I had water to drink. It was good.

It was encouraging to see that the snacks the children had at church last night were vegetables. I saw broccoli, carrots and I think sliced peppers. Thank you to whoever prepared snacks for the children last night.

Today, Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011 I intend to be at work through the afternoon- not into the evening. Once again I intend to eat some apples and nuts. However, I do not intend to eat anymore beans/legumes today... (smile). More on exactly what I eat today- this evening.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

FASTING DAY 3!

2011-01-03T12:49:00.000-08:00

It's the third day of our 30 1/2 days of fasting. So far today I've eaten the following:

1. One red apple.
2. Brown rice and beans.
3. Peanuts to snack on.

I have some great white northern beans cooking now. Still everything has been cooked in water only.

My drink all day... Water!

F.Y.I. Sis. Nicolle Spencer called me today and provided the recipe (pictured above); for Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. The recipe is taken from a website connected to "The Daniel Fast". The recipe is dairy, sugar and gluten free. Here the recipe is:

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies!

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup almond flour or oat flour
1 cup creamy cashew butter, almond butter, or peanut butter
1/2 cup applesauce
1/3 cup Date Honey
1/2 cup raisins
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix oats, almond flour, cashew butter, applesauce, and Date Honey in a large bowl until well combined. Add raisins, walnuts, and cinnamon. Stir well. Drop by spoonfuls, two inches apart, on an 11 by 17-inch baking sheet. Flatten and shape into circles. Bake 10-12 minutes.

Yield: 18-20 servings (serving size: 1 cookie)

Recipe Notes
Make your own oat flour by placing old-fashioned rolled oats in a food processor or blender and process until fine (1 cup old-fashioned oats will yield about 3/4 cup ground oats).
Increase applesauce to 1 cup if you don't use Date Honey.

The address to the website is: www.theultimatedanielfast.com

More later.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

MY FASTING FACTS DAY 2

2011-01-03T03:02:00.000-08:00

It's Monday morning January 3rd, however I am writing now about what I ate yesterday- Sunday, January 2nd.

I had an apple in the morning.

For lunch and dinner I ate pretty much the same thing as I ate the day prior. Specifically: red, green and yellow peppers, white onion, broccoli and a large red tomato. I had all of this over brown rice. I cooked steamed the mixture in water and cooked the rice in water.

Of course my beverage was water.

Once again it was great!

My prayer time has been consistent. There are only 27 days left.

I believe I am going to add nuts today as a snack while at work. I intend to have the office staff at CMBC pause each work day at 12:00PM and pray.

Remember your commitment to pray daily- in the morning, at noon and again in the evening.

Where our fast is concerned. You can certainly design a fast according to your personal dietary needs. That is to say some people need to consume certain meats or the like in order to maintain their health and/or because of medications they take, etc. Whatever you choose to cut out of your diet remember to "make a sacrifice" for The LORD and pray daily.

To God be the glory!

Safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

MY FASTING FACTS DAY 1

2011-01-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

To my CMBC family members who may be following this blog in connection with the CMBC Holy Convocation (30 1/2 Days of Prayer & Fasting). Consider the following:

I mentioned in an earlier blog what I hoped to eat today on the first day of our church-wide fast.

This is a quick chronicle of just what I had today.

THis morning I ate an apple and banana. For a mid morning snack I had another apple. For lunch and dinner I ate the same thing. Here it is: 1 sliced red tomato, two more bunches of green onion, one small yellow onion, some broccoli florets, and sliced red, yellow and green peppers. I steamed the vegetables on the stove with a little water. To this I cooked some brown rice. Yum.

I don't intend to eat anything else this evening.

I've prayed throughout the day. However, I was at the church today following the wedding of Bro. Dwayne Huddleston and Sis. Sheri Bowens- I did not remember to pray at 12:00PM. However, when I recalled my commitment I did pray.

Have a wonderful evening.

Safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

HOLY CONVOCATION (30 1/2 Days of Prayer & Fasting)

2010-12-31T16:41:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, January 1st marks the date that Holy Convocation (30 1/2 Days of Prayer & Fasting begin at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church.

A note to the CMBC family. Remember that Pastor Fort has amended the initial fast of exclusively water, fruit and vegetables. Kosher fish was also included.

I have amended that initial list of foods to include chicken and wheat/whole wheat foods. However the chicken is not to be fried. No soda pop, no white pasta or breads.

That said, I hope to blog about my personal diet from day to day.

With respect to tomorrow know that I intend to eat the following:

Breakfast: apple and banana.
Lunch and dinner: brown rice, a mix of red, green and yellow peppers and broccoli.
Water to drink.

C.M.B.C. family remember to complete your "fasting contract". Remember, in addition to your personal reasons for fasting we are praying and fasting as a church family for the Spiritual, physical and financial health and healing of our church family, Christians around the world and the world at large.

Finally, also remember that our prayer commitment to pray every morning, at 12:00PM (no matter where you are); and again in the evening.

Let's pray for one another.

Happy New Years Eve.

safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort

IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!

2010-12-24T11:28:00.000-08:00

Early this past Tuesday morning. Around 4:00AM I left Chandler Arizona bound for Ceres California.

My drive to the Bay Area was directly connected to the recent transition of my Aunt Joyce Nelson (Fort); from earth to heaven. It was also connected to the fact that I wanted to see my Aunt Kay Lee (Fort); my Aunt Elma Fort and my sister Arnita Echoes (Fort).

I arrived in Ceres California around 3:30PM. I visited with my Aunt and some cousins for about 30 minutes. I then drove to East Palo Alto California to see my Aunt Kay. I visited with Aunt Kay, Uncle Bobby, Cousin Jackie and others for about 30 minutes. I then drove to my sister Arnita's house near downtown San Jose California. I visited for a few minutes with Arnita and her husband Steven Echoes.

Then I went to sleep in their spare bedroom for about 3 and one half hours. I got up around 2:00AM California time (3:00AM Arizona time) and went to the gas station. I left the gas station about 3:32AM bound for Chandler Arizona.

I arrived in Arizona shortly after 3:00PM.

Brothers and Sisters, I made a vow to The LORD several years ago not to ever drive from San Jose California to Los Angeles California again. My reason for that declaration years ago was the fear and danger of driving through the "Grapevine" in fog so dense that I could not see the front of the car.

Well, I must confess that I broke that promise years ago. In fact, I've driven back and forth from Arizona to the Bay Area a number of times since then.

That said, let the record reflect that I revived my previous commitment to not drive to California again... period.

I cannot tell you how terrifying it was driving from the Bay back to Arizona. Perhaps you heard about the terrible rain, flooding, mud slides and the like from southern California through western Arizona? If not, let me tell you it was bad!

The rain seemed relentless, the wind was strong, the fog was present. To top all of that off the windshield wiper on the driver side of the car caused problems too. Instead of wiping the window clean it smeared the rain water across the window causing bigger problems with viewing the situation outside.

I prayed to The LORD and asked for His guidance, grace, mercy, love and favor the whole way. Quite literally I thought I was going to crash perhaps even die a number of times. But The LORD is faithful. I said to my sister "God still takes care of babies and fools". I was a fool for taking that trip, and continuing on despite the weather.

So in essence I'm writing this blog to encourage everyone to exercise Common Sense. I didn't do that. To make wise decisions... I didn't do that. To pull your car over when inclement weather is the order of the day... I didn't do that. To spend time with The LORD when you don't want anything... perhaps this will influence His blessing and keeping you- when you do want some things.

On a closing note, my Aunt Joyce Fort as I said earlier passed away two weeks ago this past Thursday. My Aunt Elma has been diagnosed with bone cancer. My Aunt Kay, Aunt Joyce and Aunt Elma were "runnin' buddies. Please pray for God's will to be done with my Aunt Elma and her cancer diagnosis. Ask The LORD to heal her completely... if that's His will. Ask The LORD to speak peace to my Aunt Kay and my Aunt Elma with the lost of their sister. I have another aunt, Aunt Zelma who still lives in Texas. Pray for her too.

Heck, just pray for my whole family.

Now then have a holy, healthy and happy CHRISTmas Eve and CHRISTmas Day. If you're a member of Canaan, or if you're looking for a CHRISTmas morning worship service, let me invite you to join us in our annual CHRISTmas morning worship service from 8:00AM until 9:00AM at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church. Visit us online at: WWW.MYCMBC.ORG for more information. Or just stop by CMBC 931 South Stapley Drive Mesa Arizona 85204.

I call this blog "... THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!" not because of the CHRISTmas holy-day- but because I am trully full of wonder at how and why our GOD does what He does. Indeed He loves us one and all. Indeed His grace is sufficient.

Safe in the arms of JESUS CHRIST my SAVIOR and LORD,
Sherman J. Fort, Servant of JESUS CHRIST

THANK YOU JESUS!

2010-12-22T18:37:00.000-08:00

GOD is better than great... period!

To GOD be all glory, honor and praise... THANK YOU JESUS for keeping during my drive from San Jose California back to Arizona.

agape
pastor fort

CANAAN CELEBRATES 21 YEARS!

2010-12-13T07:02:00.000-08:00

To God be all glory, honor and praise!

Yesterday, Sunday, December 12, 2010 the Canaan Missionary Baptist Church celebrated our 21st Church Anniversary.

Our special guest preachers for both services was the inimitable Rev. Terry Marks, Senior Minister/Pastor of Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church in Phoenix Arizona.

My, my, my- what a Gospel Preacher! Rev. Marks is a former member of CMBC. He served as a trustee during some of his years at Canaan in addition to working in other capacities. But more important than his work as a trustee is the fact that he is a trusted, personal friend of mine.

I marvel at what I see our great God doing in the life and ministry of Rev. Marks. The sermon he preached yesterday was titled: "Built Up to Hold Up!". His text was the classic passage found in Matthew 16:13 and following. Thank you preacher for your ministry in The WORD of God.

Special thanks to members of his praise team too who accompanied their pastor to CMBC. They ministered in song and we were blessed by their singing.

An extra special thanks to the charter members of CMBC who joined us in worship yesterday. To Sis. Joyce Boyd and all those on her committee... Thank you too!

May our God bless and keep you.

Safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

E.V. HILL II ... THANK YOU JESUS!

2010-11-08T16:42:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday I had the blessed opportunity to preach at the famed Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles California, Rev. E. V. Hill II, pastor.

This opportunity came about because Pastor Welton Pleasant II, invited Sis. Fort and I to participate in Marriage Conference 2010 held at his church. Consequently my friend and brother, Rev. E.V. Hill II, pastor of Mount Zion M.B.C., Los Angeles California heard about my coming to Los Angeles and extended an invitation to preach at "Zion".

Pastor E.V. Hill II, and I have known each other for some time. In fact, I've had him scheduled to preach at Canaan at least twice in the last several months. Neither one of those invitations came to pass. However, if The LORD see's fit, Pastor HIll will be with us in January of 2011.

That said, let me declare to one and all that "Zion" has it going on! What do I mean by that? Well consider that the last time I was at Zion it was the Memorial Service for the late Dr. E. V. Hill I. The service took place on a Friday night and the place of course was jam packed.

When I went to Zion this past Sunday it was my first time seeing the new facility since the fire. In a word it is AWESOME! It's beautiful! The sanctuary says "worship". So many sanctuary's don't communicate that today. It's modern. I mean the technology is there (cameras, screens and all); but if you're not looking for it you may miss some of it. The camera's and all are "under-stated". They are not obtrusive. The wood in the church works. I've seen so many churches with wood that are dark and maybe even foreboding. Not so here. The wood is warm and light. The key color is the same ... green. But now the green seems to me to be a richer, dark, emerald green. Last but not least let me say something about the sound system! Great!

In addition to all of this the Praise Team ... yes I said Praise Team at "Zion" was outstanding. The choir ... magnificent. And Pastor Hill of course was gracious to a fault. A ridiculously charismatic, sharp and always well groomed brother ... I thank The LORD for the kindness showed to me by Rev. E.V. Hill II.

If you live in South Los Angeles, do yourself a favor and visit Mt. Zion M.B.C. if The LORD leads you so to do.

safe in CHRIST,
pastor fort

THANK YOU CHRIST SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH, LONG BEACH, CA.

2010-11-08T16:33:00.000-08:00

It's not often that I have the blessed opportunity to receive an invitation that involves both my wife and I working in ministry together. However, that's exactly what happened this past weekend.

My friend and brother, Rev. Welton Pleasant II, pastor of Christ Second Baptist Church in Long Beach California- invited Angela and I to participate in their Marriage Conference 2010.

This blog is being written to say a big THANK YOU to the pastor and people of Christ Second Baptist Church. Sis. Fort and I had a wonderful time sharing in ministry together. The Conference was wonderful. The Couple's Ministry Leaders, Deacon and Sis. Brown were very kind. The people of Christ Second Baptist Church were gracious to a fault.

All that said, what I enjoyed over the course of the Conference may very well have been the "refreshing" voice(s) of both Sis. Angela Fort and Sis. Teresa Pleasant (daughter of Dr. Fred Campbell, pastor, Mt. Zion M.B.C., Redwood City, CA.).

Angela and Teresa joined Pastor Pleasant and I in facilitating our respective Sessions. Wow! How very refreshing it was for me to hear them. Their voice, their perspective and the way they communicated the things they shared was wonderful to watch and witness. I thank our God for blessing us with gifted wives.

In addition to participating in the Marriage Conference, Pastor Pleasant also afforded me the privilege of preaching at the church this past Sunday morning. My, my, my ... what an experience!

Pastor Pleasant and I have been friends for some years now. I knew him when he served as Pastor of South Los Angeles Baptist Church in Los Angeles California. And what a great church South Los Angeles was. However, let the record reflect that our God has blessed Pastor Pleasant at Christ Second Baptist Church.

The worship was wonderful, the campus is great. The staff (from the Church Administrator to the young ladies working the Video ministry piece on both Saturday and Sunday); were all gracious and kind.

Most certainly I struggled some in preaching last Sunday morning, but still the people were gracious. I pray that they received what The LORD wanted to them to hear this past Sunday. I pray this is true more than I pray that they "enjoyed" the sermon; or that I'm ever invited back.

Thank you LORD JESUS CHRIST for this opportunity. Thank you Pastor Pleasant for the invitation.

Safe in CHRIST,
pastor sherman j. fort

A NEW BEGINNING!

2010-10-30T18:50:00.000-07:00

GOD is better than great ... period!

I am sitting in the back of the sanctuary at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church. I am watching Pastor Tommy Reynolds perform the first baptisms for the church The Lord blessed him to begin.

This inaugural baptism service is a real blessing. I believe Pastor Reynolds has baptized a total of 11 people tonight. WOW! What a blessing. In a day when some churches that have been around for years are not baptizing at all ... or very little, Pastor Reynolds is baptizing 11 people to the glory and honor of God most high!

Go 'head Pastor Reynolds and THE NEW BEGINNING'S FELLOWSHIP!

This is an awesome church and awesome pastor and Co-Pastor, the Rev. Nancy Reynolds.

Pray for them.

safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

MEN'S DAY @ CMBC 2010

2010-10-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

To God be the glory for the things He has done, is doing and shall yet perform.

I first heard the gifted preacher (yes I said preacher); and teacher, Deacon Harold L. Simmons while participating in a Conference hosted by the Laymen's Auxiliary of the National Baptist Convention USA Inc. a few years ago.

I was so moved by the fact that Deacon Simmons responded to questions thrown at him during a class he taught (I sat in the class); with answers from The Bible that I was committed then to ask him to come and share with the men of CMBC.

Some time later I heard Deacon Simmons (who serves as President of the Laymen's auxiliary of the National Baptist Convention USA Inc.) share from The Word of God again.

I asked him to come and share with the men of CMBC during what I termed "The V Conference" (Men of Vision, Valor and Victory).

He came and shared with us this past weekend. He provided leadership to our Rap Session on Friday, our Conference on Saturday and preached The Word of God twice on Sunday.

WOW! WHAT A PREACHER! (Yes ... I said preacher). He was Biblically, sound, encouraging, helpful, and he accurately handled "The Word of Truth".

Thank you Lord for this man of God.

safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort, servant of JESUS CHRIST

DESTINY CHURCH!

2010-10-25T17:34:00.001-07:00

Recently I had the opportunity to preach for my friend and brother Dr. Emil Thomas, pastor of Destiny Church in Baltimore Maryland.

WOW! What an experience. Pastor Thomas and Destiny Church are not only extremely generous in the way they me (and the two additional guests from our church who went with me); ... they went beyond the call of duty in terms of their generosity and kindness.

In addition to providing me with beautiful accommodations, an in room basket, etc., Pastor thomas showed me a great time by just hanging out with me for a while.

Pastor Thomas and Destiny Church are loved by this minister and the CMBC family. I am grateful to our God for the friendship we share.

Finally, know that the name "Destiny" church is befitting this pastor and people. I believe they're serving The right GOD. They are being preached to from The right book ... The Bible- consequently they are growing in The LORD. The people who walked the aisle the Sunday I was there (people who have apparently been coming for some time); are evidence that the word is out that Destiny church is destined for greatness as long as they keep their eyes on The LORD.

Thank you Pastor Thomas for the opportunity to come and share God's Word at your warm and wonderful church.

May The LORD continue to bless and keep all of you.

safe in CHRIST,
sherman j. fort, servant of JESUS CHRIST

ON THE EAST COAST

2010-10-08T22:25:00.000-07:00

It's 10:26pm Arizona time and 1:26am here in Baltimore Maryland. I am so honored to be here. My friend and brother, Dr. Emil Thomas has given me the opportunity to come back to the east coast and preach at the great Destiny Church where Emil serves as pastor.

The ocassion for this Sundays service at Destiny Church is the Men's Annual Day. Pray with and for me that our God will use me for His glory and our good.

In addition to my being here, I am also thrilled to have Bro. Robert Nettles Jr. and Sis. Gail Nettles from Canaan Church here with me. Bro. Nettles serves as a musician at CMBC and has come to represent the men of CMBC in song. Sis. Nettles has come at my invitation and of course more importantly to accompany her husband. That said, let me testify to the goodness and grace of our God when I say that Bro. Nettles' uncle passed away days after we made our reservations to come to the east coast. We had no idea his Uncle was going to go home to be with The Lord when the reservations were made. His Uncle lived in North Carolina. The home-going service for his Uncle is tomorrow. Bro. and Sis. Nettles would likely not have been on the east coast and therefore not able to make the funeral had we not already made arrangements to be here. Indeed God is good. The Lord knew that Bro. Nettles' Uncle was going to die and that the funeral service would be the same weekend we were already scheduled to be here.

Both Robert and Gail are on their way to Greensboro, N.C. now. Pray for their traveling grace and mercy. Pray that the funeral service is just what The Lord wants it to be. Now then, also remember to keep Deacon Robert Nettles Sr. (Robert Jr's father and brother of the deceased) and family in prayer. He arrived in N.C. yesterday.

Even after midnight there is something exciting about being here on the east coast.

Thank you Jesus for this blessed opportunity. Use me for your glory and our good.

Amen.

Safe In CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

GOSPEL PREACHING!

2010-09-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

There is a deficit in our world when it comes to "Gospel" preaching.

That said, let me declare my thanks to our God for the fact that we still have a few preachers who have not bowed the knee to popularity and dare to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I've been honored to hear a few of those preachers lately. They include the Rev. Jerry Carter of Morristown New Jersey, the Rev. Emil Thomas of Baltimore Maryland, the Rev. Marvin Wiley of Maywood Illinois and the Rev. Fred Campbell of Redwood City California.

Thank you Lord for gospel preachers.

agape,
sherman fort

"... I know the PLANS I have for you ..."

2010-09-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

"For I know the plans I have for you, decleares The LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". -Proverbs 29:11

This popular and powerful passage of Scripture speaks in a different way to me than it has in times past.

In recent weeks I've been too busy. My mind has been occupied with a number of things ... all centered around family and ministry matters. To that end, I made a crucial mistake and completely forgot about a commitment I made to be the guest preacher at a sister church. I realized my mistake only after reading an email I received from a member of the church asking where I was?

You can imagine how bad I felt. How embarrassed I was. I immediately responded with apologies, gifts and a personal trip to the church. Nevertheless none of that takes away from the fact that I made a major mistake. In a real sense you could say that I failed to plan correctly.

The LORD God has a plan for each and every one of us. I desire to make my life line up with His plan for me. I'm convinced that I've made decisions apart from His counsel and His plan for my life. I am not saying that I missed my appointment because it was not part of God's plan for my life. What I am saying is that I need to- and have begun taking a step back to re-assess my plans. Making sure they line up with His plan for me.

It is true when we fail to plan, we plan to fail.

I don't want to fail in my planning to follow The LORD's plan for my life.

agape,
sherman fort

SOME GREAT PREACHERS!

2010-08-31T17:55:00.000-07:00

Recently I've had several opportunities to hear some really great preaching!

Pastor Fredrick L. Fairley Sr. recently hosted what he calls the S.T.P. Bible conference at his church, Berean Church in Phoenix Arizona.

The special guest preachers and facilitators were Rev., Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., from Phoenix, AZ.; Rev., Dr. Jerry Carter from Morristown New Jersey; Rev., Dr. Emil M. Thomas, from Washington, D.C.; and Rev. Welton Pleasant from Long Beach, CA. Host Pastor Fairley also preached over the weekend and I was blessed to teach a session on Bible Interpretation.

The preaching and teaching over the weekend were wonderful. While Dr. Emil Thomas has preached at Canaan several times, his preaching this weekend once again was refreshing and challenging. He preached a sermon titled: Dig A Ditch! My, my, my. I was really challenged on a personal level to "dig a ditch"... that is make an investment, deposit and plan for my blessing in The LORD. Thank you Pastor Thomas

Due to a meeting I had at Canaan on Saturday, I was unable to stay and hear Pastor Jerry Carter. However, I heard The Lord used him in great ways as well. He is a well known preacher and teacher of The Gospel.

It goest without saying that Dr. Stewart, Pastor Welton Pleasant and Pastor Fredrick Fairley all came prepared and ready to share as well.

Thank you Jesus for Gospel preachers and teachers.

agape,
pastor fort

It's Been A Minute Since My Last Post... I'm Still Grateful To God!

2010-08-31T17:45:00.000-07:00

CMBC MARRIAGE RETREAT 2010 PRE-CONFERENCE NOTE!

2010-08-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”

So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”
-Genesis 1:26-28

This Scripture is but one of many Bible verses that speak to and about marriage. Even though it is becoming increasingly popular to live together without the benefit and blessing of marriage, The Word of God is clear... marriage is God's doing.

Please join me in prayer for the couple's of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church who are participating in this years Marriage Retreat. We will be at the beautiful Prescott Resort in Prescott Arizona. Various couples from our church will be leading our discussions on a variety topics that are relevant to Christian marriage.

My prayer for Christian couples everywhere is that we will honor God by living out what His Word teaches us about marriage. I pray that our witness will be both verbal and non-verbal. That we will witness with our walk as well as our talk. I pray that Christian couples would encourage one another, ... "hang out" with one another and learn to love, serve and sacrifice as Jesus Christ does.

Pray for our safe passage to and from Prescott Arizona. Pray for the leaders of our Couple's Ministry, Bro. Daryl and Sis. Jennifer Dorsey. They've worked hard to plan a memorable time for us all with Jesus Christ at the center of our weekend.

Agape,
Pastor Fort

Preaching In Tucson Arizona - Calling A Pastor

2010-08-02T14:44:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 22, 2010 I was blessed with the wonderful opportunity to preach at Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Tucson Arizona. I've been honored to preach at this a number of times over the past several years. The congregation is sincere and the people are special.

The church does not have a pastor right now. In fact, November 2009 marked the completion of their first year without a pastor. For those of you who are believers in Jesus Christ please pray with and for the Mount Calvary B.C. family that they will soon have the pastor that GOD has chosen for them.

That said, I am convinced that many of our churches, baptist church in particular do not use a Biblical model in "calling" a pastor. I've been brooding over this for some now. Most recently I've had several conversations with my pastor and another preacher friend who I respect about the matter.

We seem to forget that the church is a THEOcracy. Not a democracy. That is to say the church is GOD-driven and GOD governed. I fear that sometime we mess up what God has planned by entering into a democratic, secular driven process to call a pastor.

We certainly will do well with focusing more on prayer and seeking God's direction where this matter is concerned.

Mount Calvary B.C., in Tucson Arizona is a church that has nothing but an "Up" side as far as I can tell. I am praying with and for them that The GOD's will is done there. I commend them on having several pastors to come and declare The Word of God to them. I was honored to be in that number this time around.

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

RAISE YOUR HANDS IF YOU'RE "SURE"!

2010-07-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

My first week back in the pulpit at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church was good. We had five people come forward to join the church at the second service. For all that The LORD did I am grateful and glad.

My first week back in the church has proven good as well. In addition to going into the church office this week I also held two Vision Casting meeting's as it were with the CMBC family. I conducted the Vision Casting meetings at our regularly scheduled Tuesday night and Wednesday afternoon Bible Study hour(s).

I had much to share including the idea of going to a third Sunday morning worship service. While I thought I'd made up my mind on moving forward with the matter, following my time with the Wednesday afternoon group and of course time in prayer and other times of consultation I've decided to shelve this idea for the time being.

THere are times in life when we need to put certain moves on "pause". When we need to take a second look at a situation. I'm reminded of a story I heard concerning a preacher who I admire much... Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer, pastor of the Faithful Central Bible Church in Los Angeles California. It is said that after Bishop Ulmer had made up his mind to join the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship some years ago; and after spending considerable time teaching the FCBC family, from The Word of God with respect to his decision- he took the matter to a vote. That is to say he desired to have 100% of the people vote in favor of the move. I'm told that just a few people voted in the negative. I'm told that Bishop Ulmer then decided to sideline the move and spent another six months or so teaching his congregatioin. He then revisited the vote and subsequently joined the FBF.

Now, I don't have it on record from Bishop Ulmer that this actually happened this way. And we all know how stories can start and then grow. That said, the principle of patience can be seen in the story.

For the time being I'm going to "delay that order" to go to a third service. For the time being I'm going to put my hands back down... because I don't have a "sure" conviction about this move just yet.

How about you? What have you been contemplating with respect to your relationship with The Lord lately? I mean what move(s) have been in your heart to make? Whatever they are start with God, stay with God, end with God. Then go ahead... RAISE YOUR HANDS!... if you're sure.

Pray for me. Ask The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to do in me what He desires. Ask The LORD to take control of my mind, mouth, body, soul and spirit.

Agape,
Pastor Fort

LIFE AFTER DIVORCE ... Caleb's Apartment

2010-07-20T09:02:00.001-07:00

Life After Divorce
(Caleb's Apartment)

Presented THIS FRIDAY, July 23rd @ 7:30PM; and THIS SATURDAY, July 24th @ 7:30PM at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, 931 South Stapley Drive, Mesa Arizona.

IT'S FREE! However, please note that the subject is for adults. Make plans now to come out and bring a friend, a family member, a date, a co-worker.

Call the church office at: 480.825.6320 with any questions. Or visit: www.mycmbc.org for more information.

safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!

2010-07-19T17:21:00.000-07:00

To God be the glory!

Yesterday, Sunday, July 18, 2010 was my first Sunday back at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church. It was my first time back in the Canaan pulpit. Without question the day was one I looked forward to with great anticipation. The LORD allowed me to preach The Gospel of Jesus Christ.

In addition to preaching I also spent time with those in the adult Sunday School class as well. We were blessed to see some persons come forward for membership during the invitation hour at the 10:20AM service. I was happy as well to host some guests and new members in my office following the 10:20AM service for a time of fellowship and prayer.

I want to thank The LORD JESUS CHRIST for His love, mercy and grace toward me. While I was happy and honored to preach at the great Peaceful Rest Baptist Church in Aurora Colorado just one week ago, indeed there is "no place like home".

Thank you Canaan for a warm welcome back home.

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman Fort

Recovery Is Going Great ... By The Grace of God!

2010-07-16T17:36:00.000-07:00

Our God is an awesome God. He reigns from heaven above- in wisdom, power and love our God is an awesome God.

My car accident was on Friday, June 11th, 2010. Today's date is July 16th and I feel so good that it's easy to forget just how bad of shape I was in before. Indeed I still have discomfort. In fact, my humerus bone is still broken (although it seems to be getting better with each day); and I'm still waiting for an MRI to determine any ligament damage.

Still our God is awesome. I feel so much better today than I have since the accident ... it's almost unbelievable. And I owe it all to The LORD! Three days this week I've made it a point to get into the swimming pool and exercise. Wow! What a difference it's made. It's really something how I can move my arm in the water and have more "range of motion"; while feeling little or no pain.

Each time I get in the pool I think of one of the Mother's of the church who formerly shared with me the benefit and blessing of water aerobics.

It's Friday and Sunday's coming. I just finished thinking through the sermon I hope to preach on Sunday. I'm excited it will be my first Sunday back at CMBC in more than a month.

Now may our God continue to bless and keep you is my prayer.

Agape,
S. J. Fort

Thank You Sis. LaDonna Cox

2010-07-15T17:09:00.000-07:00

One of the things I desire to do as pastor of The Lord's people at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, is to utilize technology for the glory and honor of God.

That said, I am grateful first and foremost to The Lord Jesus Christ for His love, mercy and grace. I'm grateful to my sister Candice Fort, owner and operator of FortSupport a website design, website management and branding company. I've mentioned my sister Candice in previous blogs.

Today I am also particularly appreciative of Sis. LaDonna Cox. Sis. Cox is a gifted young lady who is also a friend of many years here in the valley of sun. A few years ago Sis. Cox released her own gospel CD. I believe she's also appeared on some local, regional and national Christian television broadcasts; and without question she's spent some time singing at various church events.

Fortunately for myself and the CMBC family, Sis. Cox was a visitor at Canaan when my twin sister, Shermaine N. Fort came to speak. The short story is that I asked her to come up and sing. After the service I mentioned how I'd like to have our own CMBC Theme Song. I've seen similar "church theme songs" connected to other churches and had the thought in mind for some time.

Sis. Cox heard of my desire and reportedly in just a few minutes, without my asking her personally wrote a theme song for our Church. She then recorded it. It is now on our website.

You can check out our new church theme song by visiting our website at: www.mycmbc.org.

I wanted a theme song that spoke to our ministry theme which is: "One Voice, One Vision, One Victory". I also seek to have an emphasis on family. Sis. Cox captured both of these themes in the song she wrote. This was all done without Sis. Cox even speaking to me about it. When I asked her about it, she said she noticed our banner in the sanctuary that has our ministry theme on it. She shared further that she knows me. She gave glory to The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob for the writing of the song.

In case you're interested I'll provide the lyrics to the song below.

The lyrics to the song are as follows:

WE ARE ...
CMBC Embracing Family

VERSE:
We Are Growing, Moving, Showing and Proving That We Have What It Takes To Succeed.
One Voice, One Vision, One Victory,
Pressing Beyond Our Adversity (Ooh)
We Are Stretching, Running, Reaching Our Goals,
We Are Strong And So We Press On.

CMBC Embracing Family (Yeah)
CMBC Embracing Family.

Life After Divorce... the Play!

2010-07-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

One of the functions of a healthy, well balanced church is to speak to the reality of everyday life from a Christ-centered, Biblically based perspective.

Unfortunately, one of the topics that continues to make headlines among Christians and non-Christians alike is the topic of divorce. To that end, Mrs. Tina R. Sykes, leader of the A.C.T.S. Drama Ministry at CMBC, Miss Cassaundra Hillman and the A.C.T.S. Drama team will host a full length play titled: Life After Divorce: Caleb's Apartment.

Life After Divorce: Caleb's Apartment was written by Mr. Cleveland O. McLeish. The A.C.T.S. Drama ministry rendition wlll feature a revised ending by Miss Cassaundra Hillman. The play is directed by Mrs. Tina Sykes.

The dates for the play are Friday, July 23rd, 2010 at 7:30PM; and Saturday, July 24th, at 7:30PM. The location for the play is Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, 931 S. Stapley Drive, Mesa, AZ. 85204. The play is free however donations are appreciated.

I want to encourage all of you, especially married, remarried and divorced couples that can and will to come out one of these two nights and be blessed.

Sincerely,
S. J. Fort

Home Again!

2010-07-13T18:18:00.000-07:00

Denver Colorado is a great place. As I shared in my last email, I was blessed and honored to go there and preach at Peaceful Rest Baptist Church. The still relatively new D.I.A. (Denver International Airport); is very nice. I was particularly taken with the umbrella like structures atop the D.I.A. buildings. I asked my host what they were for? He said they were there to deflect the snow. Wow. Having been raised in California and living in Arizona for the past several years I am not familiar with heavy snow fall... unless of course I venture up to northern Arizona- the Flagstaff area in particular.

The worship services at Peaceful Rest were rewarding. They are a vibrant and vivacious people. Once again I'm convinced that our world... "it's a small world after all". While in Denver I met people who knew of Sis. Fort indirectly (via High School classmates); and another person who worked with my brother in one of the churches where he served as pastor in years past.

This idea of "six degrees of separation" is in play.

I was blessed to get to the airport early. Shortly after arriving at the gate an announcement was made that the flight was over-booked. They bagan soliciting people to take advantage of another flight with promises of gifts from the airline.

You know I didn't even consider it. When I'm ready to get home, I'm ready to get home. There really is no place like home!

Thank you Lord for a great weekend.

Agape,
S J Fort

Peaceful Rest Baptist Church, Denver Colorado

2010-07-10T14:36:00.001-07:00

It's Saturday afternoon, June 10, 2010.

I am blessed and honored to have received an invitation to preach the Ushers Annual Day at Peaceful Rest Baptist Church, Aurora, CO., Rev. Lorenzo Stewart, Pastor. If I remember correctly this invitation came some time last year and the weekend for this ocassion has finally arrived.

The plane touched down in Denver this morning. I was met at the airport by the Rev. Donald K. Crockhom, Assistant Pastor. This brother has been a kind and courteous host. He shared with me that he would be the one to pick me up for Sunday worship service and take me to the airport on Monday morning. I'm grateful for his easy going, down to earth spirit.

After leaving the airport Rev. Crockhom took me to the church so that I could meet the pastor and see the church building. Upon arrival at the church we found the pastor conducting what I perceived to be a regularly scheduled committee or auxiliary meeting with auxiliary and/or ministry chairpersons and leaders.

Following the meeting I was privileged to meet the pastor and a number of the members. They were all gracious.

After leaving the church, Rev. Crockhom took me to get something to eat. I am now in my room at the Red Lion Hotel near downtown Denver. While enroute to our various locations today, Rev. Crockhom was sure to point out several key buildings to me. Including the Pepsi Center, home of the Denver Nuggets; and Invesco Field, home of the Denver Broncos.

All that said, I'm glad to be in the room now. I just spoke with Sis. Fort for the second or third time since being here. Listen, I sent a text to her earlier... yes that's right I sent a text... I know big stuff huh?

I sent the text before calling earlier because Sis. Fort had a client she was providing service to at the time.

Well I've already opened the Bible. Pray for me that The LORD will give me clarity of mind and heart; that I will preach with passion and Holy Spirit power; that people would be saved, healed, strengthened, delivered and set free.

Thank you Pastor Lorenzo Stewart for the opportunity to preach at Peaceful Rest Baptist Church. Thank you Sis. Hampton for all you've done. Thank you Rev. Crockhom for your kindness, gas and time.

Most importantly THANK YOU LORD for Your love, mercy and grace.

Agape,
Sherman J. Fort

Recovery From Car Accident

2010-07-08T12:24:00.002-07:00

I'm recovering well from my car accident on June 11th, 2010. Many things have happened since that time, including the love, mercy and grace of God raining down on me.

I'm grateful to be here... to be alive. I'm grateful that all that happened to me was breaking my humerus bone in my right shoulder. It could have been so much worse. While the doctors initially said they did not expect there to be a need for surgery. I believe I may have to have some kind of surgical procedure. There is a definite difference between my left and right shoulder's. Moreover, there is suspicious swelling in my right bicep that has yet to subside.

It feels like my shoulder is "out of socket"... if that makes sense. I can see slight differences between my left and right collar bone and the right side of back... just behind my right shoulder.

Please keep me in prayer. I have a doctors appointment scheduled for tomorrow morning. I called and had my appointment changed... moved up. If I need surgery I want to have it sooner than later.

agape,
S. J. Fort

I'm grateful for the E. K. Bailey International Conference on Expository Preaching

2010-07-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

I've just returned (early I might add) from the E. K. Bailey International Expository Preaching Conference in Dallas Texas.

The conference was held at the Fairmont hotel in downtown Dallas. It was well attended and a real blessing to me. The teaching and preaching were wonderful. While I suspect that there was a good deal of consistency with respect to the quality of information shared in each class, I can offer personal testimony from the class I took with Dr. Ralph D West. I believe this is my third time sitting a class taught by Dr. West. Each time, this time especially the class was helpful.

On this ocassion Dr. West taught a class that dealt with planning for "series preaching". Among other things Dr. West shared some insight with respect to his personal sermon/series preaching preparation method. He listed some of the pros and cons with respect to planned preaching. He ended the class by answering questions from the ministers in the class. It was a real blessing.

Dr. West and Dr Joel C. Gregory are two Gospel preachers I am listening to quite a bit right now. Their preaching is encouraging, inspiring and most of all Biblical. I thank our God for these two great preachers.

The E. K. Bailey Conference also afforded me my first opportunity to hear Rev. Craig Oliver, pastor of the Elizabeth Baptist Church in Georgia. Wow! What a preacher. I was blessed by his message. Dr. Duduit opened the conference with the first evening lecture. What a presentation. It was challenging and Christ centered.

I could go on and on about each speaker. I truly enjoyed the conference. I hope to attend again next year. I encouraged the associate ministers at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church where I serve to go. None did this year. Let me encourage all gospel preachers who desire to gather in one place with other Gospel preachers to prayerfully consider attending this conference. It's a great place to hear a number of really good preachers, attend great classes and get involved in good fellowship.

Moreover, your wife can attend as well, as Dr. Sheila Bailey (the widow of Dr. E. K. Bailey) hosts the S.T.A.N.D. Conference at the same time and location as the preaching conference. So brothers whhile you're attending the one piece, your bride can be in attendance at the other piece.

Agape,
S. J. Fort

i am grateful

2010-06-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

GOD IS AMAZING AND HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT.

I HAVEN'T WRITTEN ANYTHING IN A WHILE. MUCH HAS HAPPENED IN MY LIFE OVER THE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS. I HOPE TO WRITE AGAIN SOON WHEN I HAVE USE OF BOTH HANDS.

FOR NOW I WANT TO THANK PASTOR R G MOORE, PASTOR LOUIS SPEARS, PASTOR MILTON PLEASANT, PASTOR WESLEY JONES SR., HE'S PREACHING AT CMBC RIGHT NOW... ON THAT NOTE I WANT TO THANK MINISTER KEVIN SWINDLE, BRO. ARZALE SMITH AND OUR A/V MINISTRY FOR MAKING THE SERVICES AVAILABLE, LIVE ONLINE. I WANT TO THANK MY TWIN SISTER AND GOSPEL PREACHER, REV. SHERMAINE N. FORT. DEACON BILL WARREN, BRO. EZRA WILLIAMS, CHAIRMAN GLENN DOTSON, DEACON KEVIN L. MCCLELLAND SR., DEACON LARRY DAVIS, DEACON EMERSON TURNER AND THE OTHERS WHO PAID TRIBUTE TO SIS FORT AN I DURING OUR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION.

THANK YOU CMBC FAMILY FOR YOUR PRAYERS, CARDS AND WELL WISHES.

THANK YOU TO A TRULY REMARKABLE WOMAN, WIFE, MOTHER AND MORE SIS ANGELA M. FORT. THANK YOU YO TWO PRICELESS DAUGHTERS KIARA AND KENNEDI.

BUT MOST OF ALL I'M GRATEFUL TO THE LORD GOD MOST HIGH, THE CREATOR OF HEAVEN AND EARTH. TO THE LORD JESUS CHRIST MY SAVIOR AND LORD. TO THE PRECIOUS AND EVER PRESENT HOLYSPIRIT... THANK YOU LORD.

Im

2010-06-20T08:49:00.001-07:00

Reconsider The Invitation!

2010-04-24T13:06:00.000-07:00

"Reconsider The Invitation". These words make up the title of a wonderful sermon preached by the legendary Rev., Dr. Fred G. Sampson.

Pastor Sampson preached this sermon many years ago from a passage in the book of the Revelation. In his introduction he told a story about an invitation he'd received to preach somewhere. He went on to say that he'd mistakenly discarded the invitation only to re-discover in the trash bin later. He then re-considered the invitation.

I've just come back from a walk around the hotel where I am staying here in Carson California. The walk was good. The weather is beautiful. I like walking in part because it gives me an opportunity to reflect and reconsider some things.

This afternoon I'm reconsidering the love, mercy and grace of our God toward me. God is so gracious, merciful, loving and kind... and I love Him. The LORD has given me several opportunities to preach His Word to His people. Lately, (as I've said in a previous 'blog'- I'm more convinced than ever before that I (that is all of us Gospel preachers); should not accept every invitation that comes our way.

As preachers and pastors we receive invitations to pray at community and political functions. We receive invitations to serve on boards and committee's. We receive invitations to preach here and there. However, I can't help but wonder just how many of those invitations really come from The LORD. That is to say, how many of the invitations we receive do you suppose really are 'God approved'?

I remember meeting Dr. Mason many years ago in Los Angeles California. I was told that Dr. Mason was known not just as a preacher and pastor, but also as a man of prayer. I was told that often he would meet a young preacher and say to them: "Let me pray for you". He'd then commence to praying at that very moment. That was my experience when I was introduced to him in a hotel lobby by another Pastor. He greeted me, we shook hands, then right there in lthe lobby, in front of the elevators, he bowed his head and prayed for me. Wow. What an experience.

In addition to hearing that Dr. Mason was a man of prayer, I also heard that he wa a man who prayed specifically about invitations he received to preach at various places. I'm told that it was not uncommon for him to respond to an invitation with words that went something like this: "Let me pray about it and I'll get back to you". I'm told he was known on ocassion to follow-up that response with words that went something like this: "I'm flattered, but I have to refuse the invitation. The LORD hasn't given me clearance to come. And if I come I'll be blocking someone else from coming... perhaps the very one The LORD has chosen".

I heard Dr. Mason died just a few short months ago. I hope that his prayer habit hasn't died with him. On a personal note, I'm committed to praying about invitations before I accept them.

All that said, let me say this to you now- If you are not in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ right now. Know that He is standing with His arms wide open inviting you to join Him. If you've considered His invitation before and declined, let me beg you to reconsider His invitation. He loves you.

Agape,
Pastor Fort

Sky Harbor Airport

2010-04-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

I am in the famed Phoenix Internaitonal Airport. It's Saturday, April 24, 2010. I'm on my way to Carson California to preach for the inimitable Dr. Johnny Baylor.

I am personally indebted to this preacher and pastor. It was Dr. Johnny Baylor who organized and led the very first trip to Israel. Needless to say the trip was life changing, sermon altering, awe inspiring and just plain wonderful... that is to say it was "full of wonder".

I've made a decision to not go everywhere I'm invited. The fact is that every preacher of The Gospel should ask The LORD whether or not He wants us to go where it is we've been invited. We should ask The Lord for permission, should we go without His approval we may be blocking another brother The Lord intended to be at that church, convention or event- and in so doing block the very message The LORD wanted that congregation to hear.

That said, I don't know just how I got this invitation to preach for Dr. Baylor? Nevertheless I am grateful to my God and to Dr. Baylor for the opportunity.

Something else that is on my mind as I sit in this Phoenix International Airport are Biblical sermons and The Holy Spirit.

What a name we have for our airpot here in the valley of the sun... Sky Harbor. I don't know who thought of it, but it's a great name. The picture of ships docking at a harbor after coming in from a trip on the ocean. Or of ships raising their anchor preparing to go out into deep water.

As believers in Jesus Christ we too have a Harbor in the heavens. But our harbor is not for ships, it's for "The Old Ship of Zion". Our harbor in heaven is connected to our relationship with our God. Our harbor can be reached through prayer as we commune with The Father and talk to Him about what's going on in our lives. Even though we're here on earth, through the ministry of The Holy Spirit we have a harbor in heaven that we can connect to right now.

Moreover, one day we'll check in permanently to the harbor and spend all of eternity with The LORD.

Hallelujah.

Pastor Fort

GOOD FRIDAY 2010

2010-04-02T20:12:00.000-07:00

I hope each of you had a good "Good Friday".

What makes Good Friday good is that the following Sunday was Great! This week is commonly referred to as "Passion Week". The word 'passion' here speaks of the 'suffering' of my Savior and LORD, Jesus Christ.

Have you stopped to really consider all that Jesus Christ went through that the world might be saved? Jesus died that He might reconcile the world back to Himself. He died in our place. He died in our stead. He died on our behalf. Jesus Christ is "The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world".

It's Good Friday evening now. It's after eight o clock PM. My eldest daughter is spending the evening with her Grandmother and Aunt. Her aunt, a gifted cosmetologist is scheduled to "do her hair" prior to her taking pictures that will go into her announcements for her High School graduation. My youngest daughter is with her Mom, attending a Good Friday play at church in town.

I've spent the day, really the week at CMBC. We had our lobby, administrative office, conference room and sanctuary painted this week. That activity along with other regularly scheduled activities have kept me busy in a different way this week.

This morning I left home about six o clock AM. I left the church in the late afternoon. Since coming home I've made it my business to get to "my lesson". To give more time than I have earlier this week to praying over, brooding over, thinking through the sermon I hope to preach this Rsurrection Sunday morning. I'm excited about it.

If you don't know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and LORD, you can know Him right now. First acknowledge that you are a sinner who needs a Savior. Next, believe the Scriptures concerning The LORD Jesus Christ; believe that Jesus Christ is who the Bible claims Him to be. Namely the "only begotten Son of God". Finally, confess your sins to God. Ask Jesus Christ to be your Savior and LORD.

He'll come into your heart today. He'll come in to stay.

Tomorrow is our Annual Church picnic. Our location is the same, Kiwanis Park in Tempe Arizona. I hope we have a good crowd and a great time with one another and getting to know each other outside of the four walls of the church.

Our annual "Bake-Off" and "Barbecue-Off" are on tap. As are competitions in domino's, spades, various board games, basketball, etc. Activities are planned for the children. There's a playground and an indoor wave pool. But more important than food and games is the presence of The Savior. That's really what Resurrection Sunday is all about. It's about the fact that God came near. He loves us so much that He sent His only Son to die on the cross for our sins. WOW! Amazing love.

I pray you have a blessed and beautiful Resurrection Sunday weekend. In all you do, do it to the glory and honor of God.

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

RESURRECTION SUNDAY 2010 IS COMING!

2010-03-19T14:37:00.001-07:00

Resurrection Sunday 2010 is but three Sunday's away.

This is the day, this is the event that sets the Christian faith apart from all others. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the hallmark event of the Christian faith. It is because of the literal, real, proven, resurrection of Jesus Christ that we know Jesus Christ IS The only begotten Son of God!

There are many theories that skeptics of Christianity offer on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Some say that Jesus "swooned". That is to say He simply blacked out from the beatings and loss of blood that He endured. And that He later was roused back to conciousness, once His body came in contact with the cold stone in the tomb.

Still other skeptics argue that the body of Jesus Christ was stolen by His disciples. They make the argument that somehow this team of disciples, who were most likely weary in faith and worn out physically, somehow over-powered Roman soldiers who were standing guard at the tomb of Jesus Christ, then stole His body and hid it away. These same skeptics go on to say that the disciples of Jesus Christ then went on to make up the story of His resurrection.

Here's what really happened. Jesus Christ was crucified. He died. He was buried. He got up on third day with all power in His hands. He is "the only begotten Son of God". He is who He claimed to be, ... The Holy One of Israel. He is God in the flesh! He is our Savior, LORD, Redeemer and Friend. And because He lives we live.

As Resurrection Sunday approaches let's remember the sacrifice of our Savior. Let's remember His love for us was demonstrated at the cross. Let's remember that God The Father, gave us His only Son that we might live. Let's remember that we have The Holy Spirit as our Godly guarantee ... Jesus promised to "be with us always" ... He is with us in and through the power of The Holy Spirit.

God is better than good. All hail the power of Jesus' name. Let angels prostrate fall, bring forth the royal diadem and crown Him LORD of all!

Sherman J. Fort

CELEBRATING GOD IN BLACK HIStory AT CMBC

2010-02-06T04:20:00.001-08:00

"In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you"

In this age of political correctness, many believe there is no place for celebrations which are unique to a certain culture or people. I disagree. The Bible in many respects highlight the celebrations of a certain people ... the Jewish people. However, it does so without diminishing or doing away with the importance of all people.

To that end let me say as so many have in days past: "I am unashamedly a Christian and unapologetically black". (I know the P.C. term is African American). That said, February is Black History month in America. At Canaan, we have a tradition of "Celebrating God In Black HIStory" at our church each February. That tradition will stay in tact this year.

Tomorrow is the first Sunday of February 2010. We will take five minutes and highlight various persons in black HIStory each LORD's day. The dance ministry led by the gifted Sis. Krystylle Richardson and Sis. NaJuana Robinson will share in worship on Sunday, February 21, 2010. The drama ministry of CMBC, led by the incomparable Sis. Tina Sykes will share on Sunday, February 28, 2010. And on the last Sunday of the month, February 28th, we will be blessed to have retired Colonel Toliver, a former Tuskegee Airman, who lives in the 'valley of the sun' as our special guest.

I thank our God for all He has done in the life of the negro, the black man, African American's over the years. It's by His love, mercy and grace that we are saved. He has done so much for us, 'we cannot tell it all' ... we'll nevertheless try to tell some of it this month.

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

WHAT A REVIVAL!

2010-02-06T04:13:00.001-08:00

To God be the glory for the things He has done!

Our revival began on Sunday morning and ended on Tuesday night. Rev., Dr. Emil M. Thomas, pastor, Destiny Church, Baltimore, MD. and Rev. Louis B. Jones II, pastor, Pilgrim Baptist Church, Washington, D.C. were our special guest lecturer and evangelist.

The LORD allowed these men to preach The WORD with power and passion. The music ministry of CMBC shared in great ways as well. The Voices In Praise choir sang on Sunday morning, the Male Chorus on Monday night and the gifted Minister Charlotte Hillman provided music on Tuesday night. Each service was also marked by a solo, sung by a wonderful Saint from CMBC.

But as important as all the preaching and singing are the lives that were changed and challenged as The Holy Spirit moved in the hearts of men, women, boys and girls.

I am grateful to The LORD for a wonderful time in revival. I am grateful to the Canaan congregation for their wonderful participation in this years revival. The CMBC family showed up and took part.

Let's all begin praying now not only for revival next year, but also for revival everyday in each of our hearts.

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

WHAT DO RAIN AND REVIVAL HAVE IN COMMON?

2010-01-22T20:08:00.000-08:00

It's Friday night, January 22nd, 2010. We've been experiencing rain and snowfall (yes, I said snowfall) in Arizona pretty much all week long. I should clarify that the snowfall in Arizona takes place in the northern part of our great State. The city of Flagstaff in particular.

The snow and rain we've been receiving is part of a storm that hit my home State of California first and has now moved into the southwest. As a result of all of this rain and snow we've had street closures, flash floods, school closures, highways and interstates shut down, car accidents and the like. But we've also had a refreshing and oh so necessary rush of water drench our State. You will remember that Arizona is located in a desert. I live in a desert place. A place that is not known for it's water, instead we're known for our intense, dry heat. 100+ degree days. But now, in the month of January, the first month of the year our LORD has given us water. He has drenched us with dew. He has saturated and soaked us with water. And we really, really need it in this desert place.

As I think about the rain we've been blessed with, I can't help but also think about the revival that is coming to our church in just a few short days... LORD willing. Like the land that I live in, this desert place- many people who live here are also dry. That is to say many of us are dry spiritually. We're 'parched' if you please. We're in need of some rain. But I don't mean water rain. I mean a righteous rain from heaven. Not droplets from clouds, no, I'm talking about the dew that comes down from The Divine God. We need a revival.

But hold it. Not only are some people in Arizona dry and in need of revival, look around our nation and our world. People all over the globe share our need. The economy is crazy. World leaders are fighting. People around the world are starving. Many folks are out of work. And on and on it goes. We need a revival.

I'm looking forward to Sunday, January 31st when our revival kicks off in earnest. We have two great preachers in our guest lecturer, Rev., Dr. Emil M. Thomas, pastor of Destiny Church in Baltimore, Maryland; and our guest evangelist, Rev. Louis B. Jones II, pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. I have no doubt that our God is able to speak to us in clear ways through these "men of God". I've heard The LORD speak through them before. Dr. Thomas is a longtime, favorite preacher and evangelist at CMBC. Rev. Jones has also preached at CMBC before, albeit the last time was some time ago, he nevertheless blessed us in great ways.

That said, in revival as in every case, it's not so much about who's preaching. It's really all about The LORD speaking through the preacher and delivering His message to His people. As we fast and pray this month, we're also fasting and praying about our revival. Even if you're not a member of CMBC will you join us in asking The LORD to do whatever He wants to do during our revival time? Pray that God's will is done. Pray that people are saved, healed, strengthened, delivered and set free.

Well, it's getting late and I've got a counseling appointment and two meetings tomorro... if The LORD blesses me to live. If you don't remember anything else, remember this real revival starts with God. Just like rain comes down from heaven, real revival starts with The GOD who is in heaven. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

What do rain and revival have in common? God.

Begin your revival now. Spend time with The LORD. He's waiting to spend time with you.

Agape,
Pastor Fort

THANK YOU PASTOR CARR AND CMBC ASSOCIATE MINISTERS

2010-01-22T19:50:00.000-08:00

During the month of January 2010, I have asked our church to fast and pray. Specifically seeking our LORD on behalf of our biological families, church family, our Christian family around the world and our human family of every race, creed and color. More specifically, I've asked our church to pray for the Spiritual and physical health and healing of the same.

But that's not all. During this same month of January I have set apart each Tuesday night for a special time in "Mid-Week" worship. Tuesday is our normal night for Bible study at CMBC. But instead, we've been spending each Tuesday night in worship. From 7:00PM until 8:10PM we've been in worship together.

During this mid-week worship time some of our very own Associate Ministers have been preaching The WORD of God. And may I say, I've been encouraged and helped by their preaching. Not only has our God blessed me to pastor a church with some good people, I've also been blessed to pastor a church with some really good Gospel preachers. So far this month, we've heard from Pastor Eddie Reese (a retired pastor and transplant to the 'valley of the sun' from the great state of Alabama); Min. Otis Williams, Min. Raymond Berry, Min. Marcus Blunt, Min. Kimberly Collison and Min. Kevin Swindle. They didn't just preach sermons at random either. I asked some of them to preach on a specific word in our motto, or on one portion of our ministry theme for 2010 and beyond. The LORD has blessed us with some terrific Tuesday's as they've declared The Word of God... from The Bible. Thank you preachers.

Not only has The LORD blessed us with great preaching on Tuesday nights, He has also blessed us with wonderful preaching on Sunday morning's. On the second Sunday of this month, I was blessed to preach out of state. In my place, that Sunday my friend and brother, Rev. Milton Pleasant, pastor of the Abundant Life Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona preached The Gospel of Jesus Christ at our early service. And what a job The LORD blessed him to do. The saints at CMBC are still talking about the message he shared. Min. Raymond Cook, an associate minister at CMBC preached the late service at CMBC. Once again, I heard nothing but great things about that sermon as well.

Then, on the third Sunday of this month, the one and only Rev., D. Previn Carr, pastor and founder of Ekklesia Christian church in Phoenix, Arizona preached both services at CMBC. My, my, my, ... and preach he did. Pastor Carr walked through his selected preaching passages with with what seemed to be "ease"; after arresting our attention in his introduction with practical and pointed application. I was there on this Sunday and was blessed to see people come forward during the invitation at both services.

To God be the glory for the things He has done, is doing and shall yet perform. Thank you gospel preachers for preaching The Word of God.

Thank you Canaan family for being a church that appreciates the preaching of God's Word.

Most of all, THANK YOU JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH... for being my Savior, LORD, God and friend.

Agape,
Pastor Fort

DAY 4 OF OUR JANUARY 2010 FAST!

2010-01-04T17:37:00.000-08:00

"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper, and be in good health, even as thy soul prospers". These words from the Apostle John, found in 3rd John, verse two have a lot to say to us.

Essentially the Apostle John shares that it is God's desire that we would "journey well"- that is, that we would "prosper". Moreover, John teaches us that the prosperity he's speaking about is spiritual at its base. Too much of the time we hear people speak about prosperity in material terms. Wrapping the idea around things like cars, cash, creature comforts, cribs and other "things" of this world. However, in this passage we learn that true prosperity is directly related to our journey with The LORD GOD.

That said, the CMBC family is still on a journey this month. A journey of fasting and prayer. I've been blogging a bit about my personal diet this month. So let me update you all a bit. Still no meat for me this month. On Saturday and Sunday, January 2nd and 3rd, I continued eating brown rice, broccoli and lentils as my primary food. I also snacked on popcorn. My only drink has been water. Today however I changed up my diet a bit. I had fruit this morning, an apple and orange to be precise, some vegetarian chips, and later some vegetarian pizza today. Again my only drink has been water.

In addition to eating watching my diet in terms of food, I'm also watching my diet in terms of prayer. I'm continuing to pray for the CMBC family at large, and the specific matters I've asked us all to pray for with respect to our God-given goals and vision for 2010 and beyond.

We had great attendance at church again yesterday. Indeed our God is better than good. We had people come forward to join the church at both the 7:50AM and 10:20AM worship services. We really need to move to another location or build another facility where we are. For those of you reading this who are not members of CMBC, but are Christians- let me solicit your prayers to The LORD JESUS CHRIST on our behalf as well. Ask The LORD to lead us in the way He wants us to go.

Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort

FAST & PRAY DAY 2

2010-01-02T13:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, in keeping with our church-wide period of fasting and prayer at CMBC I ate no meat. Today, I have the same to report. It's just after 3:00PM. This morning I had another green apple. After returning from an appointment at the church I had a bowl of broccoli. I just finished eating brown rice and beans with yellow onion mixed in. I expect to eat again a little later today.

I also spent time today praying for my CMBC family. Praying for my biological family, my Christian family and praying for my human family. I'm praying that pastor and people of CMBC will catch the vision of "One Voice, One Vision, One Victory" that is our ministry theme for 2010 and beyond. I'm praying for the literal, physical healing of those who are sick and seeking The LORD for a miracle in their body. I'm praying in all things that GOD's will is done.

Agape,
Pastor Fort

HOLY NEW YEAR! A RECIPE FOR A RIGHTEOUS NEW YEAR... NO MAKE THAT LIFE!

2010-01-01T07:17:00.000-08:00

TODAY is the first day of 2010. I'm not making any "new year resolutions" this year. I am however re-committing to "fighting the good fight of faith"... today, then tomorrow, then the day after that and the day after that, etc.

Today is also the first day of a 31 day period of fasting and prayer for the Canaan Missionary Baptist Church. We're fasting and praying for Spiritual and physical health. We're asking every member of our church family that can and will to commit to no less than thirty minutes of prayer a day with a certain focus. Our prayer time will focus on our commitment to our new ministry theme for 2010 and beyond.

The theme is: "One Voice, One Vision, One Victory". By One Voice, I mean our hearing God's voice; by One Vision, I mean our heeding God's vision; by One Victory, I mean our commitment to develop mature disciples of Jesus Christ. In addition to praying and asking The LORD to help us embrace His voice, vision and victory, we are also praying that we will become more "simple and dynamic" in 2010 and beyond. We're embracing this idea of "Simple Church". It's an attempt to not complicate what The LORD has not complicated. To keep our Christian lives and the way we "do" church simple and dynamic.

I've also asked our church family to pray for "families". There are so many children, youth, single adults, couples... families in trouble. It's interesting to note that we have ministries specifically designed for children, youth, single's, couples, senior adults, etc., but we don't have a ministry specifically designed for families. We want to change that in 2010 and beyond. Moreover, we hope to make the family the primary place for discipleship. More on that later.

In my attempt to keep this morning's blog short, let me say that it is my goal to blog about my journey with respect to my diet during these 31 days of January 2010 as our church comes together to fast and pray. I have asked those CMBC family members who can to eat a diet consisting of water, fruit, vegetables and fish. I've asked those who can't commit to that diet due to dietary or medical reasons, to please remove red meat and pork from their diets for the month of January 2010.

During the month of January 2010 we're also praying that The LORD will move in great ways during our church revival. Our revival begins as our period of fasting and prayer ends. That is to say, the last day of our fast and prayer time is Sunday, January 31, 2010. Sunday, January 31, 2010 is also the first day of our church revival.

Now then, whether you're a member of our church family or not, you're welcome to join us as we fast and pray for Spiritual and physical health in the month of January. And to those of us who may eat or drink the wrong thing one day, as you hustle and flow throughout your day- don't quit the fast and prayer time... Just start over. Hang in there. Let's see what The LORD will do in and through us.

Today's morning. So far this morning I've had a green apple and an orange. I'm in the process of cooking some black eyed peas right now. I intend to make some brown rice, and add some vegetables to that and eat it later. I hope to go walking soon. There's a group of people from our church who are scheduled to meet at the home of Bro. Daniel and Sis. Deborah Carter and go on a hike. I don't know that I'll make the hike, but I look forward to walking today nonetheless.

May our GOD continue to bless and keep each of you is my prayer.

Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort, Servant of JESUS CHRIST

SOME GREAT PREACHERS!

2009-11-20T06:53:00.000-08:00

Too often- I think, the majority of Christians call the names of only the most popular preachers on the national scene when asked to provide a list of "great preachers".

Recently, I've had the privilege of hearing and hosting two great preachers right here in Arizona. Who are the two you ask? First, Reverend Arthur Lee Jr., pastor of the great Bethlehem Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona. Pastor Lee was our guest preacher at the 7:50AM service for our 3rd Annual Senior Saints Sunday at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona.

Wow! What a sermon... what a preacher! Pastor Lee has been a long-time preaching personality on the scene here in the 'valley of the sun'. He's served in various capacities with respect to the State Convention, community agencies and the like. But without question one of his greatest gifts is preaching The Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Pastor Lee took me to school as he preached a dynamic and clear gospel message centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ on the cross. His message was challenging, life changing and encouraging. And, watch this- he didn't take all day to do it.
I thank my God upon each remembrance of this wonderful pastor and his Christ-centered sermon.

For the same ocassion, on the same Sunday morning at our 10:20AM service, Rev. James N. Preston, pastor of the Bethesda Community Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona preached The Gospel of Jesus Christ at CMBC.

Pastor Preston brought a phenomenal message that blessed our congregation in great ways. His preaching was practical, powerful and absolutely carefully crafted. He walked through the passage, breaking down key words and phrases, presenting The Gospel of Jesus Christ with clarity. Then, he closed. Pastor Preston closed the sermon in a great way.

The Lord blessed him to "hit on all cylinders".

These are just two examples of local preachers who presented a wonderful word to us. Men, who like me, may not make the list of the 50 greatest preachers ... according to Ebony Magazine or some other publication. But still great preachers in their own right.

During the Pastor Summit 2009, our chief facilitator, Dr. Fred Campbell, encouraged those pastor's in attendance, to seek the "Amen" of God; as opposed to the "Amen" of men. That said, when I come to the end of my days, (and, quite frankly while I'm walking in this world right now); I want to hear The LORD say "Amen" to what I'm doing... to what I'm preaching... to how I'm living!

I take nothing from the great preachers who have been recognized on the national and international scene, but let's not forget my brothers and sisters, there are preachers who've come and gone, that can out preach any one of us ... on any given Sunday. Some of them preached sermons in back alley's, never in a pulpit. Some of them preached sermons in small country towns, never on large stages or pulpits around America and the world. Most of them, we've never even heard of I'm sure. But believe this, when we get to heaven, there will be some people (some preacher's); walking around with rewards that astound us; while some other, well known, much applauded preacher's will be there too- but with minimal "hardware" if you will.

Let me be clear now, I believe we will all "cast down our crowns"- our rewards and accolades at the feet of Jesus Christ. The point I'm trying to make is be faithful in what you do for The LORD as a gospel preacher. And remember you're doing it for Him, through Him and by Him... so to God be the glory- ALL THE GLORY for the things He has done, is doing and shall yet perform.

Preach On!
Sherman J. Fort

JUST JESUS!

2009-11-05T19:12:00.000-08:00

District Associations, State Conventions, National Conventions...

This week marks the 89th Annual Session of the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona Incorporated.

Upon joining the convention I was asked to serve as President of the Minister's Conference. A job I took on with joy and enthusiasm. At this year's Annual Session, on the "Minister's Conference" night, I was blessed to preach just prior to Rev., Dr., Jerry Carter, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Morristown New Jersey.

My, my, my, what a preacher. He shared a poignant and powerful message that helped me personally. He titled it: "News From Another Network". One of the things he shared that my wife quoted to me today while riding in the car is the idea that hard work must accompany the gifts God has graced us with.

Friday of this week is "president's night". Our new president of the Paradise State Convention is Rev., Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church, Phoenix Arizona. I expect he's going to preach a dynamic and daring message that will challenge the convention to change in a manner that calls for Christian courage.

In addition to being part of the PMBSC (and consequently the National Baptist Convention of America USA Incorporated); I also associate with the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention (part of the national Southern Baptist Convention). I've been impressed for some time by the emphasis they seem to place on evangelism, missions and discipleship.

No matter what convention you're a part of, ... or not a part of for that matter- make sure you're part of the family of God. You can join God's family by placing your faith in His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.

All conventions have their problems. And most of them have some really good points too. I look forward to the day when we will all gather under the banner of love... God's love. No more conventions, no more presidents, no more cabinets, no more denominations... just JESUS!

Agape,
Pastor Fort

PASTOR'S SUMMIT 2009

2009-10-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

GOD IS FAITHFUL ... PERIOD!

First and foremost I want to thank God for His love, mercy and grace. I also want to thank my wife, the incomparable Mrs. Angela Monique Fort for her genuine (that's a big word); support and excitement with respect to the Pastor's Summit 2009. I also have to thank the steady and sweet Sis. Angela Garmon, (a member of CMBC and the person who worked diligently to bring this event to pass); for her kind, consistent and most of all Christian character in causing the Pastor's Summit to take place.

Now then, let me say that the Pastor's Summit was, in my estimation a life changing event. The goal of the "Summit" was to have a "safe place" where select senior pastors could come together and share their hearts with one another where the work of the pastoral ministry is concerned.

From the very beginning my goal was not a numerical one. I wanted no more than twelve pastors for the Summit with the thought that the smaller number would better lend itself to the intimacy, honesty and building of what I hope would be real relationship between brothers of like faith, mind and heart.

From the very beginning my hope was that a time of personal refreshing, revival and renewal would take place in the lives of those pastors in attendance. With the largest emphasis of that refreshing, revival and renewing being of a "Spiritual" nature.

From the time the vision for this Summit was birthed and I began to put feet to my faith (this happened in October 2008)- in terms of contacting the hotel, producing the initial flyers and beginning to share the word, via word of mouth about the event- to the time it all came to fruition much took place.

As a Christian pastor seeking to host this event, out of a need I see for this event to take place and with the approval and leading of our most High God, I wrestled early on with trying to attract senior pastor's with the lure of a nationally known pastor and/or preaching personality as our Summit facilitator. To this end, I initially contacted three men. one of them significantly better known than the other two with respect to being a national preaching personality. Those three men were the inimitable Dr. Charles E. Booth; the inimitable Pastor Harry R. Fort; and the inimitable Pastor Fred Campbell. From here I had flyers produced and mailed out, sharing news of this event; and had the event advertises via the HOPE Ministries website on the world wide web.

Within months of the Summit Pastor Harry R. Fort was no longer one of the facilitators. With weeks to go until the Summit, I decided to cancel the event out of personal frustration and a closer look at my financial obligation. Consequently I shared the news with my wife Angela and contacted Dr. Booth to share the same.

For whatever reason I delayed sharing that decision with Pastor Campbell.

With weeks to go until the Summit, I had a change of heart and was moved to move forward with the event- honestly knowing the entire time that the need for this event and the calling to do it, host it, have it ... was what is most important.

It's Saturday evening now. 6:26PM on October 24, 2009. And let me say this "To God be the glory for the things He has done"! The Summit by all indications was a success. And by "indications" I speak of the spiritual indicators that count most. By "success" I speak to the original goal of having a safe place where senior pastors could come and grow together.

The location of the Summit is the beautiful and secluded Sheraton Wildhorse Pass and Resort in south Chandler Arizona. The location was a very important decision since I wanted to have this event take place somewhere that was accessible yet gave a sense of being secluded... almost isolated. The location was important because I wanted some place that was "excellent" in terms of it being a quality, top shelf, first class- if you please hotel/resort. The Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa is all of those things and more.

The lone facilitator or conversation starter as I like to call it for the Summit was Reverend Fred Campbell, pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Redwood City California.

The senior pastors in attendance at the Summit were, Pastor Troy C. Allen, of Phoenix Arizona; Pastor/Dr. Johnny Baylor, of Carson California; Pastor Shawn Buckannon, of Sierra Vista Arizona; Pastor Michael Collier, of Mesa Arizona; Pastor Melvin Foard, of Queen Creek Arizona; Pastor Abram Moore, of Coolidge Arizona; Pastor Claudell Myles, of Phoenix Arizona; and Pastor Welton Pleasant, of Los Angeles California. Counting Pastor Campbell and myself there was a total of ten senior pastors.

Our time together was probing, powerful and precious. I believe that healing and genuine love was shared this weekend. From our initial dinner and session on Thursday, through our three meals and three sessions on Friday, and our breakfast and closing session this morning The Lord worked on us. We shared more than meals these last three days, we shared an experience that can never be repeated.

I've already begun mentioning and setting up meetings with Mr. Merold Porter, my sales representative at the Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa for next years Pastor's Summit. And unless The LORD says otherwise, we will have a glorious time with Jesus and one another.

To my brother pastors who attended this years Summit, let me say: Thank you for coming. Thank you for caring and thank you for committing your time, resources and most importantly yourselves to this weekend. To Pastor Fred Campbell, thank you for leading us as our facilitator for the weekend. We had no "agenda" so to speak, we simply asked The Lord to take control. To my other fellow pastors who said they were coming and did not. Or, who wanted to come and could not. Let me say that I've already begun working on The Pastor's Summit 2010. The weekend has already been determined. It is Thursday, October 21st through Saturday morning, October 23rd. The location has already been decided. It is the Sheraton Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa in south Chandler Arizona. And a numerical cap is being worked out now. With respect to the number of senior pastors in attendance I don't want to exceed 20. And, at this point I am thinking of stopping at 15.

That said, if you are a senior pastor who is interested in coming begin doing a few things: 1) Pray. Ask The LORD if the Pastor's Summit 2010 is for you. 2. Begin putting some financial resources away now to that end.

Then, once you've heard from The LORD, please contact me via the information provided on either the HOPE Ministries website (WWW.HOPEMINISTRIESAZ.ORG); or the Canaan Missionary Baptist Church website (WWW.MYCMBC.ORG); and let me know of your decision.

Now, may the love of God and sweet communion of The Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.

Sherman J. Fort, Servant of JESUS CHRIST

THANK YOU LORD!

2009-10-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

Recently I've had the opportunity to preach for two wonderful brothers.

The first, Rev., Dr. David L. Wade, Pastor of the historic Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona. I've had the distinct pleasure of knowing this gregarious, generous, giving Pastor since he first arrived in Arizona a few short years ago.

Pastor Wade was scheduled to go out of town on preaching business and asked me to come and share The WORD of GOD with his people at Mt. Calvary. I'm thankful that The LORD gave me clearance to leave my Canaan familly and preach at Mt. Calvary that Sunday ... particularly since Pastor Wade and I pastor different churches in the same city. In truth, our churches are just a few miles apart.

The Calvary Church family proved to be welcoming, warm and friendly. The service was vibrant. The choir (yes, I said choir... not praise team); sang one of my favorite gospel songs from bygone years. Namely, "Uncloudy Day". Dr. Wade's associate Minister and Deacons were kind as well.

It is my prayer that our God was pleased with my attempt at preaching His WORD to His people (those Dr. Wade calls "the sweet members" of Calvary.

I thank my God for this preaching privilege.

Most recently, just last week in fact, I was blessed with another wonderful preaching opportunity. Believe it or not, I preached for the inimitable Rev., Dr. Emil M. Thomas.

Pastor Thomas serves as Pastor of Destiny Church in the Washington DC/Baltimore Maryland area. WOW! What an experience. When it comes to Dr. Thomas it has been my distinct pleasure and privilege to know him for better than twenty five years now. When I was a much younger preacher he allowed Pastor Fredrick L. Fairley, Pastor Thomas E. Fisher, myself and so many other
"young preachers" to preach at the Jerusalem Baptist Church, in Palo Alto California- during his tenure their as Senior Pastor.

Not long after I began serving as Pastor of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Thomas preached at CMBC. And, since that time he has become a favorite of both Pastor and people. In fact, Pastor Thomas has now exceeded my friend and brother Rev. Fredrick L. Fairley Sr., as the preacher who has preached most often at CMBC. I believe he's conducted our Annual Church Revival for five years in a row. And, if The LORD says the same he will join Pastor Louis B. Jones II, one Sunday in January 2010 as our special guest lecturer that day.

Let me get back to the point. Pastor Thomas allowed me the privilege of preaching for him last week at Destiny Church. His church is alive, vibrant, kind, friendly, warm and welcoming! The music provided by the Male Chorus was excellent! Not only was Bro. Jones on point with both playing and singing, it was The Holy Spirit active in these men that took service to another level.

And, in spite of Pastor Thomas telling a joke about the Washington Redskins football team, the men presented him with an authentic Philadelphia Eagles/Michael Vick Jersey. They gave him the real thing. The men remembered his making reference to the jersey some time earlier and gave it to him on this their first Annual Men's Day.

Again, I hope The LORD was pleased with my effort to preach His WORD at Destiny church.

Thank you Pastor Wade. Thank you Pastor Thomas.

THANK YOU LORD!

Grateful,
Sherman J. Fort

Marriage Matters!

2009-09-22T12:14:00.001-07:00

I recently heard Dr. Ralph D. West (quickly becoming one of my favorite preachers); refer to an article written in the 1920's in a Harper & Rowe Magazine titled: "What's The Matter With Preaching?"

I think of that reference now, the couples ministry at our Church prepare for our next Couple's Fellowship- and I ask myself quietly... "What's The Matter With Marriage?"

Now, before you think too much into this. Two things immediately come to mind here. 1) Marriage in fact matters! 2) In our modern world, marriage is suffering.

This quick blog is not about laying blame for any negative views on marriage at the feed of any person or group. I'm just thinking out loud. Marriage matters! It matters so much to our God that marriage is His idea. God officiated over the very first marriage between Adam and Eve.

It's in marriage and the confines of the Christian family that our God has chosen to build the weight and worth of a society and culture.

Marriage is a merger of two people... a husband (or house-band); and a wife (or help-meet). But Christian marriage is more than the merging of two, it's the merging of three into one. That is to say, marriage is about a Christian man and woman loving Jesus Christ and growing closer to Him and one another at the same time.

Without question, one of the best images I've seen of a Christian marriage is that of a triangle. Go ahead, draw one on a piece of paper. Now, write the word JESUS at the top of the triangle. Now, write the words "husband" and "wife" at each corner at the bottom of the triangle. Go ahead do it. It'll only take a moment or two.

Now, draw a line pointing from the word husband to the top of the triangle where the word JESUS is. Do the same with the word wife on the other side of the triangle.

There you have it. Marriage at its best is a husband and wife each striving to fall in love with Jesus Christ, grow closer to Him, become more like Him... and in the process they grow closer to one another. Eventually meeting at the top where Jesus is.

There is an off chance that a married member of CMBC may read this particular blog this week. If so, join the CMBC marriage ministry this Saturday, October 3, 2009 for a great time of fun, food and faith sharing with one another. We have a fine and faithful couple, Darryl and Jennifer Dorsey who lead our Couples Ministry. They, along with our other couples will be glad to have you join us.

Keep believing in marriage. It matters!

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

Thankful for preaching opportunity!

2009-09-04T20:07:00.000-07:00

I was honored just a few weeks ago by Rev. Ottley Holmes and the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona. Pastor Holmes and his church family invited me to be the guest speaker at one of the Pastor Appreciation Service's this year.

The afternoon celebration took place a few Sunday afternoon's ago. Several guest churches were invited and shared in song. A number of preachers and pastors were present as well. Including at least two associate ministers from Canaan Missionary Baptist Church.

I attempted to preach a sermon titled: How To Treat The Pastor. The text was First Timothy 5:17 & 18. Again, I wanted to be short, considering it was an afternoon program and one with several guests no less. Also, once again, I'm making an attempt to deal with smaller sections of Scripture in my hope to be more thorough.

I'm thankful for The Lord blessing me in spite of myself. I still need to work on my "close". I have a personal conviction about always closing every message with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. That's not what I'm talking about here however, now I'm just talking about style and flavor in closing. Any way, that's not what I wanted to write about.

I really wanted to say that I'm grateful to Pastor Ottley Holmes for the invitation and I'm encouraged when I see churches encouraging their Pastor with words and gifts of thanksgiving and appreciation for a job well done. Indeed, the pastor who "rules well"; especially those who "labor in preaching and teaching" are worthy of "double honor".

While I haven't heard Pastor Holmes preach every Sunday morning, I'm convinced he's a solid Bible preacher. In fact, he hosts a weekly radio show on one of our local AM stations here in the valley of the sun. I'd encourage you to check him out when you have the chance. I listened to part of a broadcast recently, he was teaching from the book of Acts.

If you're interested you can check him out online. Their church website address is: www.smbcmesa.org

May our God continue to bless us with preachers and pastors who preach The gospel of Jesus Christ.

Thanks for the opportunity to preach The Word at Shiloh M.B.C. pastor Holmes.

Preaching The gospel of Jesus Christ is not just a privilege, it is a responsibility. Thank you Jesus. Please make me the preacher You want me to be.

Shalom,
Pastor Fort

Joy ... No Matter What!

2009-09-04T19:51:00.000-07:00

Four Sundays ago I began a new sermon series in the book of Philippians.

It's been a wonderful journey so far.

I titled the first sermon: Joy And The Single Life. In this message I attempted to set up the context of the book and emphasis the Apostle Paul's repeated use of the words "all" and "my" in the opening verses. I wanted to communicate the fact that Paul was inclusive in his addressing "all the Saints with a particular emphasis on the fact that he ultimately had a single goal in mind.

Consequently, joy can be the reality of every beliver when we seek a single focus on The Lord Jesus Christ, His will, Word and way in our lives.

I titled the second sermon: Paul's Prayer for his People". The text here was Philippians 1:3-6. In this sermon I talked about being thankful, being thoughtful and closed on the fact that our God is thorough. A quick look at the passage reveals this simple but profound outline.

I titled the third sermon: Paul's Prayer for his People Part 2... Abounding Love. The text for this sermon was Philippians 1:7-11. In this message I tried to emphasize the matter of affection, association, abounding love and approving those things which are "excellent".

It's friday night now and Sunday morning will be here soon. I'm looking forward to it too. And what a great passage of Scripture Philippians 1:12-17 is. I don't know that I'll be able to cover all of those verses this week. I've made a commitment lately to focus on smaller pieces of Scripture. This is for two reasons. First, there's just so much in each verse that it's hard to get through too many verses at one time. Second, I'm trying to be more thorough in my preaching. This goal lends itself to considering smaller portions of Scripture at a time.

Well here's what I really want to say.

No matter what you or I are dealing with today. No matter what we may face tomorrow. And, in truth, no matter what we've had to deal with in our past, that still seeks to lay hold on us in our present... you can have joy no matter what.... if you trust The Jesus Christ as your LORD and Savior.

Shalom,
Sherman J. Fort

WHAT'S GOING ON? ... APOSTASY!

2009-08-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

It's Friday night. My wife and daughters have just left along with two other Minister's wives and their daughters for a women's retreat near Carefree Arizona.

I've been musing over the matter of holiness and compromise for some time now. As I continue to do so now in the quiet of my home, I'm moved to write just a little about this matter.

I have some old convictions along with some new conclusions that I reached recently. I just want to share some musings with you.

1) I'm not a Democrat. I'm not a Republican. I'm a registered independent. But, more than that I fancy myself a Christocrat. I know, new word. I made it up some time ago. I want to be a Christian first, through and through. Then, shape everything else on that fact. Including my politics.

2) The Scripture is clear, God has called His children to live holy lives! It's something we can't do without Him. But, He has given us the permanent, personal, presence of The Holy Spirit, His instruction on how to live in His Word, the Bible; and The Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, Redeemer, God, Friend and example.

3) This matter of compromising The gospel for gain must come to an end.

Am I alone or have you also noticed the craziness going on among clergy and laity alike in the U.S.A.?

We've got preachers and pastors preaching false doctrine and calling it the gospel. Pastors, preachers and church members around the country have been caught up in sexual, yea even homosexual scandals.

Have you noticed the number of preaching personalities who've attempted to make the jump from the pulpit to national talk shows lately? And watch this, as "life coach" no less.

What? Did God call you to preach The Gospel of Jesus Christ? If so, what's going on?

Have you noticed the ridiculous emphasis on money among certain ministers and ministries lately? I know this focus has been around for decades, perhaps it just seems to me like it's even more prevalent than ever before.

Have you noticed the move of one church in two, no make that three locations? And, now the move to pastor one church in two states? Now here's the latest I've heard... one church in two (or more) countries.

Now, know this, I'm not against the spreading of The Gospel of Jesus Christ. I just question whether or not it's His gospel we're spreading? It seems to me in most, if not all of these cases, men are looking to make a name for themselves. It seems to me as though men are looking to build monuments unto themselves.

Now above everything else I've said thus far, the greatest indictment may not be against the preachers and pastors at all. A case can be made that we have churches filled with people who simply don't know The Lord Jesus Christ the way they say they do. In fact, too many of us don't know our Bibles. If we did, we'd recognize false teaching and preaching when we hear it. And we'd cease doing two things:

1) Supporting ministries that claim to be Christian but are not.

2) Step up our evangelizing efforts and intentionally, fervently share Christ with others.

Okay, I'm going to stop writing now.

Pray for me. Let's all pray for one another.

Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort

Monday Morning Reflections!

2009-08-17T05:43:00.000-07:00

I was blessed yesterday to preach at a great church... twice! That great church is Canaan Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona. It's the church where The Lord Jesus Christ has allowed me to serve as senior minister, as pastor for nineteen years now.

The reason I call it a "great church" is because it has a great God. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The Lord Jesus Christ makes His church great.

Two Sundays ago I started a new sermon series for our Sunday morning time together. On Sunday morning's I'm attempting to preach through the book of Philippians. Two Tuesday nights ago I started a new Bible Study series for our adult class. I'm attempting to teach through the book of Esther. This Wednesday afternoon I will prayerfully begin a new Bible Study series in the epistle of James.

All of these are great books.

The benefits of series preaching and teaching are far too many to mention here. But let me say to any pastor or Bible Study leader that series sharing ... for me at least- is the way to go. I know we live in a day where many people are talking about a "right now word". We hear language that almost sounds "spooky" to the hearer. Language that suggests the preacher/pastor is going to get up each Sunday to share The Word of God, and somehow be supernaturally endowed- on the spot- with this right now word for you. It's almost a seance spirit, a kind of "power of prophecy" hour in ministry.

But on a more stable, stout and sturdy level, let me suggest that series preaching and teaching is a better way to go. Some of the reasons that make it better include: 1) Both you and the people you're preaching or teaching to, know where they're going from week to week. 2) It builds christians in a more dedicated and dynamic way than sharing a new thought, idea or conviction from week to week. 3) It allows the hearer and student to study ahead. 4) It makes the preacher and teacher deal with whatever subject the text speaks of- that is if you're approaching the preaching and teaching from a verse by verse exposition of The Scripture. Etc., Etc., Etceteras

That said, the other thing I've really been trying to practice lately in my preaching it brevity. By brevity I mean, not trying to tackle too many verses of Scripture in a single sermon. For me, there's just too much in every verse, sentence, phrase, etc. And, through the years, as I've made vain attempts to preach large sections of Scripture I inevitably rush it and fail to give justice to the passage I'm attempting to share.

But not only brevity in my preaching in terms of text preached, but also brevity in my preaching in terms of time spent preaching the message. Now at this point let me say that I am not placing emphasis on being short- in terms of time for short sake. Rather, I refer to not going so long in the sermon that the people lose interest-because their attention span is only so long.

Finally, by brevity I also refer to announcements and my musing from the pulpit. I've discovered something over the years. I like church, I like serving as a pastor. And, I really like preaching. Sometimes this fact, combined with a few key announcements on Sunday morning make me long in the tooth with respect to talking. Yesterday, I asked our new Church Administrator, Deacon Emerson Turner, to please handle Sunday morning announcements for me going forward.

I did have another opportunity to preach yesterday for the great Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona. The event was the twelfth appreciation service for Pastor Ottley and Sis. Wanda Holmes. My, my, my, what a great pastor and first lady. They honored me with an invitation to come and preach.

I hope the message was helpful to both pastor and people.

I believe Pastor Holmes is a good person. He's a solid, Bible preacher and teacher. Sis. Holmes was beautiful and gracious. In addition to his duties as pastor of Shiloh MBC, Pastor Holmes also has a weekly radio show on one of our local Christian radio stations where he teaches The Word of God. Sis. Holmes owns her own hat business. And the hat she had on yesterday was beautiful and elegant.

Lastly, I was really blessed yesterday to have my pastor in church at our 10:20 worship service. Reverend Fred Campbell, pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Redwood City, California. I didn't see him until I was walking out of the sanctuary to go in my office for a brief moment during the offering period. And there he was seated in the back (in the lobby in fact). When I saw him, I greeted him, went back into the sanctuary and then asked him to come up and say a word to our church. With reluctance he did. Now, he was brief and classy at the same time.

I'm grateful for Pastor Campbell and other men who have helped shape my thinking, my heart and my ministry.

It's Monday morning. I have two appointments this morning at the church. I'm going to try and leave after that. We'll see what happens.

On Judging Others!

2009-08-12T18:17:00.000-07:00

Mankind has a natural inclination to pass judgment on one another. Even among christians we have a tendency to cast judgment on other Christians.

Now, there is no question that we are called by our God to assess, examine, and make a judgment at times with respect to people, places and things... in keeping with The Word of God and as we are led by The Holy Spirit. But that's not what I'm talking about here.

Here, I'm talking about the manner in which some of us, judge others of us when we should not. I am a christian, who has suffered with a very serious disease called legalism. Maybe you've heard of this illness? The legalism that I speak of is born out of a genuine desire to live a holy life according to The Word of God. But somewhere in the process the person suffering with this illness moves from a desire to live a holy life to a point where they can't move or think without beating themselves up about a particular matter.

The religious leaders of Jesus' day suffered from a type of legalism. They obeyed what the Scriptures in principle, but disobeyed The Lord in practice. That is to say, a surface look at their lives left the viewer with the impression that they were living a holy life... in keeping with the law of God. However, a deeper look at their heart revealed they'd violated the law of God and did not authentically love Him.

And, what's worse... they sat in judgment of others. Calling others hypocrites, referring to others as some kind of immature believer if you will.

In Romans chapter fourteen, the Apostle Paul writes to the saints who live in Rome about this very matter. In the end, he says that we should remember that The Lord God is the only Judge that matters. It's His judgment that is right and pure. His judgment matters.

Paul writes that we should not quarrel, fight or dispute of things that do not matter.

The late Dr. E. K. Bailey said: "Some things are urgent and some things are important. When it comes to The Gospel, it is both urgent and important".

Perhaps we've spent too much time examining the life of another believer, looking for the speck in their eye, and ignoring the forest in our own.

I believe God has called us to holiness. I believe we should seek to live holy lives. And seek to live that holy life in, through and by the power of The Holy Spirit. Being sure that our actions are guided by the instruction we receive in The Word of God.

I believe that we should not do anything in the presence of another believer that might cause that "weaker" less mature believer to stumble. We must recognize that not every believer is aware of the fact that Christ has made us free from the law of sin and death. Not every believer understands that we've been set free. Moreover, if the exercise of our freedom in Christ causes another, weaker, less mature believer to stumble in their faith- we should exercise that freedom in their presence... and perhaps not all.

Just because we can do something, doesn't mean we should. Especially, when it hurts or has potential to hurt someone else.

I believe that we should spend our time intentionally trying to win people to Jesus Christ. And intentionally trying to disciple people who are believers already. That is to say, we should seek to help the weaker, less mature believer become fully mature in Christ Jesus.

In the end it is salvation and discipleship that is both urgent and important.

Safe in Christ,
Sherman J. Fort

NEW WEBSITE FOR CMBC YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS!

2009-07-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

Today the Youth and Young Adult Ministry of CMBC is launching their own website.

It's something I've never done before at CMBC, but I believe it's time. Check it out when you have the time. It's still under construction. It's in a very basic format. I'm sure it will always be a work in progress as we live in this ever-changing world.

I'm looking to have a "facebook" piece and maybe even a "myspace" piece. If you knew me, you would know that's a huge consideration.

Finally, if you need a website for your church or business, let me suggest that you consider getting a quote from my sister Candice Fort. She's the architect of both the CMBC site and this new youth site. You can check her site out at: www.fortsupport.net.

Pray for me. I'm praying for you.

Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN IT'S GOD'S VISION AND NOT YOURS?

2009-07-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

Gullible. That's what most of us are. Most of us are gullible, easily influenced, quickly intoxicated and even more easily manipulated by the world, the flesh and the devil.

On the contrary, it seems to me that we are not so easily influenced, impacted or engaged when it comes to The Lord Jesus Christ. While the Bible calls for us to be "filled with The Spirit"; and to be under the influence of our God as we read, study and live out His Word... too much of the time we (Christians) are not.

I recently returned from Dallas Texas and Salt Lake City Utah. I'm scheduled to preach this Sunday at the great Trinity Missionary Baptist Church in Tucson Arizona, Rev. Elwood McDowell, pastor.

Traveling the way I have lately and looking at what's going on in my own life (as I continue to work on the 2009 Pastor's Summit), and as I watch the activity of busyness going on at the church where I serve as Pastor, I can't help but wonder- just how much of what we do is of/from The Lord. And how much is us.

I think that too many times pastor's, preachers, ministry leaders and members of the laity go to conferences, hear sermons and listen to teaching- and then leave mimicking what we've seen and heard.

All too often we attend a conference, revival or class, listen to tremendous testimony which the great things our God is doing in the life of another person church or ministry, and then think that we've been called to do the same thing too.

Now, please know that I realize there is a clear difference between "admiring" someone and mimicking them. There is a difference between being moved and motivated by another person and flat out copying what another believer is doing. The Apostle Paul in the book of Ephesians, writes that we should "be imitators of God as dear children". He says that we should mimic our Messiah. But beyond Jesus, we're not told to "mimic" anyone else.

In addition to my being irritated and agitated by what I we see in the body of Christ as a kind of copy cat christian, I am equally disturbed by what appears to be a focus by many on self instead of The Savior.

Have you noticed how many ministries are named for people? Have you noticed how personality driven we seem to be?

Like certain groups in the book of Acts, we seem to relish the preachers and pastors we "sit under". I often hear Christian's speak with great pride when telling others who their pastor is. We say things like: "My pastor is Reverend 'Such in Such'". Or, "My Bishop is Prophet 'So in So'".

In contrast however, I for one rarely hear us brag and boast so quickly and easily about who our Savior is. Hmm?

Have you paid attention to how we plan, arrange and go about programming our events? It's clear that many of us are in competition with one another. Many of us hear about someone else having a conference, holding a seminar or having a revival- and we try to "best" them.

We plan our own similar event. Then plan way too many activities. Then invite everybody in the world to come (regardless of their denomination, religious beliefs, etc.); AND be on "program". When our event takes place we encourage everyone to sing, dance, shout, holler, give their neighbor a "high five", turn around, touch the ground and give the dog a bone.

But hey, here's a question: Where is The Lord in all of this? I'm talking to myself first, so don't trip. But, really, where is The Lord in all of this? Do we really have Him in view? Or, are we thinking about our name, our reputation and our status in the christian community?

May The Lord save us from ourselves. May we let go of our ego and really begin to plan, promote and push things will bring authentic glory to God!

Remember, God is not primarily interested in counting numbers. He's more interested in making the numbers in attendance count. Jesus Christ excused the multitudes on many occasions; and instead chose to invest in twelve men. Twelve, whom the Bible say when about turning the world "upside down".

One of my preaching heroes, Dr. A. Louis Patterson Jr., says that the Apostles "turned the world right side up, because it was already upside down".

Some things to look for when trying to determine whether or not your vision is from God are: 1) Ask yourself does your vision find a foundation in The Word of God. 2) Ask yourself is there a prior precedent for my vision in The Word of God. 3) Ask yourself does my vision bring all glory to God, or to me. 4) Ask yourself if unbelievers/non-Christians are brought to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as your vision is worked out. 5) Ask yourself if Christians are encouraged as your vision is worked out. 6) Ask yourself if you would do the work involved in your vision for free? Or, is your primary motivation money. 7) Ask yourself are you doing the work of the vision in your own strength, or is The Holy Spirit your power source. 8) Ask yourself if you experience joy while carrying out your vision.

Oh yeah, one last thing. Let's try not to wear the people of God out in the performance of our vision and then leave them weak and anemic, when that same audience is asked to minister to their biological families at home as well as their local church family.

Concerning everything I've mentioned... I am guilty.

At the church where I serve, I've made and continue to make moves that I pray will ensure that no one is overworked. Moves that will keep ministry leaders from being burned out. Moves that will not have anyone out at the church building every night of the week, and consequently never at home building that primary family.

Sure there are exceptions. By this, I mean there are persons who will intentionally schedule themselves to be involved in a variety of things that call for them to be out of their home too many nights each week. And, for these people there is often not much we can do. Except this, ... pray!

Let's pray one for another.

Shalom,
Sherman J. Fort

IT'S A NEW DAY ... AND I'M GLAD ABOUT IT- DELAYS AND ALL!

2009-07-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

JESUS IS LORD... period.

It's just after 9:00am. This past weekend I was blessed to be invited to the great Unity Baptist Church in Salt Lake City Utah, Rev. Harold O. Fields Pastor. The occasion was Pastor and Sis. Fields' eleventh Pastor Appreciation Celebration.

Because I had just returned from Dallas Texas earlier the same week, and in truth, because I didn't want to have Unity Baptist Church incur any unnecessary hotel costs where I'm concerned- and because I really am not all that crazy about being away from home for too long, I made my flight arrangements so that I would leave Saturday morning and return Sunday evening.

Well both services on Sunday at Unity were a blessing! The music ministry at Unity were great, the people were warm and Rev. O. C. Fields, the son of Pastor and Sis. Fields was encouraging during the Sunday morning sermon.

The afternoon program was phenomenal. It appears to me that the Christian clergy in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas have a great fraternity. I mean pastors came out from various denominations and areas in support of this great celebration. The Lord blessed me to preach a sermon that I pray was helpful, encouraging and of course Bible-centered.

Because I really don't like missing flights, especially flights home, I left the pulpit right after I finished preaching (having shared my intent with the church family and asked for forgiveness before I preached); went to Pastor Fields' office, changed my shirt and headed off to the airport, driven by a new friend and brother, the god-loving and gifted, Pastor France Davis.

It was raining when we left the church, but that in now way compared with the rain of circumstances I encountered once I got to the airport. I'd already printed my boarding pass before I left the hotel and had one bag to check when I arrived at the airport.

After approaching the kiosk for automatic check in at the airport, I was told by an employee of the airline that the flight was delayed. Now watch this... it was delayed almost three and one half hours. Instead of departing at the scheduled time of 8:15pm, the flight was now scheduled to depart at 11:40pm.

Ultimately the flight did not leave Salt Lake City Utah until approximately 12:15am. Consequently I did not get home to my wife and family until around 2:20am. Then of course, because I'm a brother who often has a difficult time going to sleep, I didn't get to sleep until just after 3:00am.

Having said all that, let me tell you that God is still better than good! Initially I was pretty upset about the delays in the flight I was scheduled to take. And, when I was told that the reasons for the delay included "operational" problems and "weather" issues- I shared with the airline employee that I'd rather get to my destination delayed and in one piece, rather than on time an all broken up.

So then, one lesson in the delay might be akin to that old adage: "Better late, than not all".

However, once I finally boarded the flight back home to Phoenix the pilot came on the intercom prior to our departure and shared that the real reason for the delay was that forty wheel-chair bound military veterans got on the flight in Chicago. And because of their wheel chairs (both electric and manual); each person needed approximately five minutes to board and then another five minutes or so to de=plane after they arrived at their destination.

The pilot went on to say that these military veterans were going to a celebration of appreciation honoring their service to our country. Most everyone on board the plane began to clap at hearing the reason for the delay. The pilot went on to thank his crew, apologize for the delay and state that his goal was to get us to our destination both safely and as quickly as possible.

It's now Monday morning. I'm up after about four hours sleep. I'm hoping to fall asleep in a few hours and rest for an additional two hours or so... I need it. But I'm moved when I think of the events last night. And I believe one of the lessons in it may be this... It's not about me.

Other things were at work, behind the scenes that I had no knowledge of. I'm reminded of Blackaby's words in his now classic discipleship workbook titled: Experiencing God. He communicates the fact that God is at work behind the scenes.

Even when I'm looking, I don't see it all. But our God has an eye that never slumbers or sleeps. He knew what was going on the whole time. And He brought me back home to Phoenix safe and sound. I peeked in on my oldest daughter sleep in her room, I saw my youngest daughter asleep in the bed, and my wife met me at the door when I arrived.

It's all good ... because it's all about God.

Shalom,
Sherman J. Fort

A PREACHING CONFERNCE WORTH ATTENDING!

2009-07-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

JESUS IS LORD... PERIOD!

It's Wednesday afternoon, I've just returned (early I might add); from the 14th Annual E. K. Bailey Conference on Expository Preaching. This annual event, held at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Dallas and hosted this year by Rev. Bryan L. Carter and the Concord Missionary Baptist Church was great.

Like many of my preaching buddies, I've attended a variety of preaching conferences over the years, but let the record reflect this conference rings with a note of excellence.

From the venue, to the booths and most importantly the preachers and teachers... it was all just great.

If you're looking for one conference you can attend that will have a variety of solid, strong and stable gospel preachers, let me recommend this conference to you.

Speakers and teachers this year included: Dr. Joel C. Gregory, Rev. H. B. Charles, Dr. A. Louis Patterson Jr., Rev. Bryan L. Carter, Dr. James Massey, Rev. Tellis Chatman, Rev. Maurice Watson, Dr. Arturo Azurdia and Dr. Ralph D. West to name a few.

In addition to good preaching and provocative teaching, the E. K. Bailey Conference on Expository Preaching also offers a "track system"; whereby the attendee can have the classes they take tracked over a course of years and then receive a certificate once they've completed a particular number of classes.

All that said, the best part of the conference may not be the preaching and teaching. Equally important and precious is the time in fellowship, and the creation of new friendships that seem to take place at this conference.

If you're interested in CD's or DVD's from the conference you can obtain them via E. K. Bailey Ministries. Check them out online.

Finally, if you're a wonderful sister in CHRIST, the S.T.A.N.D. Conference, hosted by Dr. Sheila Bailey (the widow of Dr. E. K. Bailey); takes place simultaneously with the preaching conference. So ladies, you can go too.

Here's my online shout out to the leadership team at E. K. Bailey Ministries. Thank you for hosting a great conference, at a quality hotel, with good preachers and teachers.

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

NOT JUST ANOTHER CONFERENCE FOR PASTORS & PREACHERS!

2009-07-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

HOPE Ministries is scheduled to host a wonderful event we're calling the 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT, October 22nd through October 24th of this year.

I realize that if you're a pastor who has provided your name or that of your church to the U.S. Post Office, the world wide web, or any number of like services- you receive information on countless conferences on a regular basis.

However, know this ... THE 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT IS NOT JUST ANOTHER CONFERENCE!!!

It is instead a special time for Growing, Learning and Sharing specifically designed for Senior Pastors. And here's the crazy part... THERE WILL BE NO PREACHING! NO LECTURING! Not even a lecturn, so none of those in attendance will feel the urge to preach.

The 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT is something I've desired to do for some time in an effort to have some real conversation with other pastors.

It is a time when we can come together and be revived, refreshed, renewed and yes just relax with other like-minded pastors who take ministry seriously. A time to meet with other Christian men who recognize the fact that they need to "get away".

The 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT will take place at the beautiful Wildhorse Pass Resort in south Chandler Arizona. I'm encouraging EVERY pastor, that GOD gives clearance to- to come. It is an ALL-INCLUSIVE Summit. Meaning that once you pay the $709.00; your room, meals and packet are all included!

While my hope is that all pastors in attendance will get a room at the Resort, for those pastors who live in Arizona and don't wish to stay at the Resort, they can register for the SUMMIT ONLY. The cost for this is only $189.00 per person and includes all meals.

Now, if you just balked at that price then you haven't really looked at or attended any pastor or preaching conference lately. There are notable preaching and pastors conferences in Texas, California, Tennessee, etc. who have a registration fee alone that exceed $300.00. THERE REGISTRATION FEE DOES NOT INCLUDE YOUR ROOM OR YOUR MEALS!

The idea for this kind of setting came to me some time ago. Then was modeled for me by my Pastor and friend Dr. Fred Campbell, pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Redwood City California. While serving as President of the California State Baptist Convention Pastor Campbell hosted a Pastor's Summit and it was wonderful.

I'm praying that we will have a small group of Pastors who will come and share together. In truth, I don't want a very large group of Pastors, as one of the things I'm hoping to have is a sense of intimacy that only comes with small groups.

In addition to Pastor Fred Campbell our other guest facilitator/conversation leader will be the inimitable Dr. Charles E. Booth, of Columbus Ohio.

For more information on the 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT check out the HOPE Ministries website at: www.hopeministriesaz.org

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

HAPPY IN-DEPENDENCE DAY!

2009-07-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

JESUS said, "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me".

It's been a while since I've written anything on my blog. In fact, it's been so long that I forgot my password and had to log on to "blogspot" and apply for a new password. Needless to say I received it and I'm writing now.

Since my last blog so much has happened. In the last several days we've watched and witnessed things in our world that have many people on edge. There's the arrest and subsequent sentencing of Lee and Ling in North Korea. There's the bombing and what I call "fist pumping" of North Korea to the rest of the world and the "west" in particular. There's the shameful and sinful behavior connected to the so called "election" by the people of the same old leader in Iraq- followed by the beating and bludgeoning of Iraqi citizens who were bold enough to step up and speak out in protest of this scam.

Most recently we've heard of the death of hollywood personalities, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays; NFL quarterback and 3 time Pro-Bowler, Mr. Steve McNair; and of course the death of Mr. Michael Joseph Jackson.

In Scripture we learn that GOD loves us "ALL THE SAME". However, in this life, if you're Michael Jackson the news and fanfare surrounding your death can ECLIPSE the news surrounding the deaths of other famous people.

Have you asked The LORD like have: "LORD, what are you saying to your people?" "LORD, what lesson(s) do you want your people to learn from all of this?"

I believe that one of the things our GOD would remind all of us of during these days of turmoil, testing and trial is that Triumph only comes through HIM!

I'm writing this on "Independence Day"... July 4th, 2009. But I want to emphasize to all of us who are Christians, followers of The CHRIST, that our independence did not take place when President Abraham Lincoln put pen to paper. It did not take place when Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered on a motel balcony. Equality was not won when Rev. Jesse L. Jackson ran for president of the United States, or when Mr. Barack H. Obama won the position of President of the United States just a few short months ago.

No! Our emancipation, crazy as it sounds is connected to our heart's incarceration by The HOLY SPIRIT when we accepted JESUS CHRIST as our personal LORD and Savior. Our Independence Day is really a day of IN-DEPENDENCE- that is to say we as individuals, towns, cities, states, nations and even the world can accomplish nothing until we bow our knees to The KING OF Kings and LORD OF lords... JESUS CHRIST.

We must recognize our INNER-DEPENDENCE on Him for anything and everything we need, anything and everything we are... each and every second of each and every day.

Real freedom is found in "leaning and DEPENDING" on JESUS CHRIST.

All hail the power of JESUS' name! Let angels prostrate fall! Bring forth the royal diadem and crown HIM! CROWN HIM! CROWN HIM ... LORD OF ALL!

"I came to JESUS just as I was, weary, worn and sad- I found IN HIM a resting place and He has made me glad!

COME TO JESUS (if you haven't already); COME TO JESUS, COME TO JESUS RIGHT NOW!

Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

A NEW AMERICA

2008-11-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

JESUS IS LORD... period!

WOW! What a day? What a night? What an experience the last 24 hours, plus have been. I got out of bed around 3:15am on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008. I, like many of you was too excited to sleep. Living in Arizona and realizing that CNN begins it's coverage around 4:00am our time, I went to the living room to get the earliest possible glimpse of the morning's news with respect to this historic Presidential Election and showdown between Senator Barak Obama and Senator John McCain.

Very early on the first return came in from little Dixville, New Hampshire with Barak Obama winning 15 to 6. I was immediately hopeful and excited to hear that news and wanted the rest of the votes to come in just as quickly and with similar results. Of course, you know, that didn't happen.

Angela and I both voted early. Angela by mail and me in person by going to the Courthouse in Mesa Arizona the week prior. I realized that most Americans would be voting the day of the Election. However, considering where I live, the schedule my family maintains, my doubts about integrity with respect to electronic and mail in ballots, etc., I opted to go to the Courthouse early and vote. It only took me 25 minutes or so in line to complete the process.

Now, since I'd already voted, I wanted the election to be over so that I (and the rest of the country), could know the results immediately. Like so many others, I prayed not only that Barak Obama would win, but that he would win decisively. And y'all know the rest... he won!!!

But how we won and where I and my family were- when he won was most significant for me. I did not expect the night to unfold the way it did in terms of where I was and who I was with, but The LORD really blessed the Fort family last night. Here's what happened.

I was blessed to preach at the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona last night. The Annual Session was held at the great First Institutional Baptist Church, Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., Pastor (and the newly appointed President of PMBSC of AZ). Service was scheduled to be from 7:00pm until 9:00pm. However, we started a little late and I was done preaching by 8:30pm.

Dr. Stewart and FIBC already had a "Poll Party" going on in the gymnasium, just across the parking lot from the Sanctuary. That said, as soon as service was over, we all headed over to the Poll Party to watch the returns. Wouldn't you know it- just minutes (maybe even seconds) after arriving at the gymnasium CNN (which was being displayed live on the big screen in the gymnasium); flashed the news across the screen declaring Barak Obama President Elect of the United States of America!!!

Immediately Praise, Prayer, Dancing, Shouting, Solemnity and such... all broke out simultaneously. You had to be there (or be part of the Black Church); to know what I'm talking about!

And there I was, with my wife Angela, my daughters Kiara and Kennedi, members of the Canaan Choir, Usher Board and CMBC family at large; along with members of FIBC and the PMBSC of AZ., and some very close and personal preaching friends inculding Dr. Warren Stewart, his wife, Rev. Karen Curry-Stewart, Dr. David Wade, Pastor Milton Pleasant, Pastor James Harris, Pastor Clayton, Pastor Amos Lewis, Pastor Arthur Lee and many, many others... celebrating this historic and dare I say very possibly holy event!

After several minutes of celebration. The sound on the screen was muted, Dr. Stewart took the microphone, instructed us to hold hands and then led us in a powerful prayer. He began his prayer with the words from the Black National Anthem... he closed the prayer thanking our GOD for His Son, JESUS CHRIST and declaring HIM... the prayer was powerful. Dr. Stewart then led us in singing: "WE HAVE OVERCOME". Again it was powerful.

After that, the music came back up, we watched as Senator John McCain gave I what I believe was a sincere and solemn concession speech. We watched footage from around the world, inter-mixed with footage of the large crowd at Grant Park in Chicago Illinois, where President Elect Barak Obama was scheduled to appear and give his acceptance speech. We watched footage of Kenyan's celebrating Barak Obama's victory in Africa, we watched as people like Roland Martin, Donna Brazille and Jesse Jackson cried tears that no doubt reflected their own joy, relief and pride.

Then, finally, after several minutes Barak Obama appeared on the stage at Grant Park, together with his wife beautiful and brilliant wife Michelle and their two beautiful daughters, Sasha and Malia. The crowd at Grant Park went wild, we went wild in the gymnasium at FIBC. After the normal waving to the audience and then kissing his daughters and wife, President Elect Barak Hussein Obama took center stage and gave one of the most eloquent, clear, inspiring, and humbling speeches I've ever heard.

I must admit, I expected him to be a little emotional, but he was in control. He was Presidential. He was together.

Shortly after his speech, those of us who remained in the Poll Party, in the gymnasium of FIBC began to bid one another good night, with the biggest smiles on our faces- and amazement in our minds. We all agreed that we coudln't wrap our minds around what just happened. We all agreed that we need to be in constant prayer for our new President, all of our leaders and our world at large.

After I got home, (Angela and I drove separate cars); our family gathered in the living room, had a brief conversation, with Angela and I talking to our girls about the significance of what just happened, how they felt, etc.

Then we prayed.

I stayed up a little while longer. Ate something and watched some more television. When I went to bed Angela and I watched television some more, talked some more and fell asleep somewhere close to 1:00am

Well, it's 9:07am here in AZ now. My girls are both still in the bed. They're both "knocked out". We're letting them stay home from school today. I have Bible Study at 12:00pm today. I'm debating what to do. I'm sure I'm not going with our current series. Maybel I'll drop the screen at Canaan and we'll fellowship and talk for the hour???

I wish my Mom and Dad were still alive to witness what happened last night. I talked with my friend Dr. Emil Thomas and Pastor Milton Pleasant on the drive home last night. I called my Aunt (my Mom's last living sister) last night. I called two of my sisters (Melinda and Candice); this morning and look forward to talking with the rest of my family today... those I can get in touch with.

I realize my thoughts, grammar and punctuation may not be what it should be in this post. But please charge it to my being a little tired, a lot excited and really blessed to have seen this day.

Pray for me. Pray for our President (Wow! That sounds nice). Pray for our country and world. Pray for the Canana Church. Pray for one another.

I'll be praying for you.

And remember, Barak is our new President for a term... maybe two. But JESUS CHRIST IS OUR GOD FOR ETERNITY!!! All hail the power of JESUS' name, let angels prostrate fall, bring forth the royal diadem and crown HIM LORD of all!

Safe In CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort

2008-10-03T05:54:00.000-07:00

It's 5:54am. I've been up since about 3:30am.
I have several things planned for today. I hope The LORD allows me to do what is needful and necessary. Among the things I hope to accomplish today are the normal weekday morning responsibilities of taking my child(ren) to school; then a meeting with one of the trustees from Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, where I am blessed to serve as Pastor; getting my haircut; complete some banking, and continue sermon preparation.

Before and after watching a signigicant portion of the Vice Presidential Debate last night, I spent some time considering the sermon for this Sunday at CMBC. Two Sundays ago I began a new Sermon Series on the life of Abraham. I've decided to title the series: Learning To Walk By Faith. It occurs to me that during these difficult days of fumblings and failures with respect to the price of gasoline, groceries and the collapse of financial institutions in our country and around the world, we need to focus now, as much as ever before on our faith in The LORD JESUS CHRIST!

At Canaan like many other Churches, we have seen a decline in our regular weekly giving and there are those who believe I should focus my preaching on the matter of financial stewardship and the believer. However, it's my conviction that a Christian who really loves The LORD will have no problem giving themselves first- to GOD with everything else following suit... including their money. Thus, the real need we have is to build our faith! And what better example for learning to walk by faith, than Abraham?

I am beginning to feel the extent of some of my commitments. Currently I teach three Bible Studies a week (including one at a Sister Church in Coolide, AZ., who is currently without a Pastor); and have commitments with Convnetions in Arizona as well. And, although my schedule is busy, and I do find myself a little spent at times, I also experience a strange empowering as I go about doing what I do... especially when it comes to preaching and teaching The WORD of GOD. For this I am grateful to The LORD.

I received a very timely blessing in the mail late yesterday. It was a love offering sent to me by one of my dear friends, for whom I had the privilege of preaching and teaching just two weeks ago. He, first of all was gracious in inviting to come and share alongside the other guest Minister, the very popular and gifted Rev./Dr. Major Jemison. Second, he was even more gracious when I shared that one of our former Minister's (a brother now Pastoring a Church in the Phoenix Metro area); lost his mother unexpectedly- and I felt a strong desire to be present at the funeral. In sharing this with my host, I also indicated a need to leave early from this commitment in order to prepare for my trip to the funeral in Los Angeles, CA. He and his people had no problem with my desire. After leaving there I went on to Los Angeles. The funeral was BEAUTIFUL INDEED! And, late last night I received a check in the mail from this host. He was generous too! To GOD be the glory!!

It's a great day to be alive. I'm looking forward to living out this day and prayerfully spending some time with some special people. Including a very dear Pastor friend or two.

Safe In CHRIST,
SJF

My First Blog... EVER!

2008-10-02T16:55:00.000-07:00

JESUS IS LORD... PERIOD!

Welcome to my first ever blog. Today is Thursday, October 2, 2008. The time is 4:57pm.

I've been thinking about doing this for a while and today is the day I've actually done it! While I am engaged in sharing some of my thoughts, convictions, beliefs and ideas with respect to various Bible topics, preaching personalities, books and the like- I have never done so in this format before.

For the past few weeks I have been introduced to some blog's by other Christian brothers I have come to admire from afar. Consequently, I began to consider creating a blog (apart from the writing I do with respect to the Church where I serve as Pastor).

I'm excited and a little anxious quite frankly about this endeavor. Excited because I view this blog as an opportunity to share my thoughts from time to time with those who are interested- in with a freedom that I do not have when writing with a particular Christian theme or subject in mind. A little anxious, because I have yet to fully comprehend the magnitude of this "internet" and all that it means to share more intimate thoughts (that "once put out there" cannot be retrieved.

Nevertheless, I'm doing it. It is my prayer that readers will be encouraged and provoked in positive and Christ-centered ways.

safe in CHRIST,
S. J. Fort