tag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:/blogs/davesblogs?p=2DavesBlogs2022-12-24T09:08:54-06:00Dave Panico - Saxophonistfalsetag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/71280642022-12-24T09:08:54-06:002023-10-16T09:48:46-05:00But I'm Just A Poor Boy with a Drum<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/162619/75819ec642c393117d1b40342645fa938e0af806/original/drummerboy.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I’m sure you are familiar with the song /story of the Little Drummer Boy. I’m not sure if the story is true but there are some meaningful aspects of this story, I’d like to share with you so please keep on reading.</p>
<p> There’s a poor boy with a drum who comes and sees a new baby king who happens to be Jesus. Many people surrounded this baby King and many fine gifts like gold and expensive fragrances were given to this King. After all a King deserves the best. But I imagine in the heart of the little drummer boy, he felt bad that he didn’t have anything of earthly value to give this king. All he had was a drum. So, he gave what he had and played his drum for the new king. He played it the best that he could. From an earthly perspective, you may think what use is that for a King? Well, the story goes that the baby King Jesus turned and smiled at the little drummer boy. The gift was accepted. The boy had nothing else to give. He gave what he had, and he gave his best. </p>
<p>In Mark 12:41-44, There’s a story about people putting money in the offering. Many rich people put in huge amounts of money (out of their surplus), but a widow only put in 2 copper coins worth very little to nothing. Jesus however commended her that she put in more money than all the rich people did. She put in what she had, all that she had and gave her best. The gift was accepted. </p>
<p>Jesus wants your best. Let me give you a perspective here. Maybe your best is bitterness, anger, lust, greed, alcohol, envy etc. If that’s your best, then offer it to Jesus. He will take that and replace it with his glory, forgiveness, love, and mercy. That’s why he came to earth. He chose to come to earth and grow up, (as human), so he can understand our pain, teach us about heaven and to let us know ALL are invited to join him in heaven in where there is no pain, suffering, or hurt. </p>
<p>Jesus chose then to die to offload the junk out of your life. The pain and burdens are on him. He will take it from you if you give it to him. Why carry that baggage around? Trade it in for what Jesus has. Now that’s a deal that can’t be passed up. </p>
<p>Have a very Merry Christmas </p>
<p>Be blessed </p>
<p>Sincerely, </p>
<p>Dave <br>Vision: To touch the essence of the inner heart <br>Mission: To open doors that lead to healing of hardships and struggles in life</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/71015792022-11-13T20:06:36-06:002022-11-13T20:07:31-06:00Enjoy the meal during the battle..<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/162619/3ca47d04c4c644a7fdfa9dd800614a25184d5d60/original/mealenemies.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>The last thing on your mind in the midst of a trial or fierce battle is sitting down and enjoying a meal while the battle is going on. Especially while the enemy is closing in on you, well, that’s what David writes in Psalm 23 verse 5: </p>
<p>You prepare a table before me <br> in the presence of my enemies. </p>
<p>Enemies are surrounding David and God is inviting him to dine with him while his attackers are closing in. I imagine a nice table with a white table cloth and Jesus standing there. You may think that this is insane. And one may feel frightened or scared to have a meal while you’re about to get attacked. So what’s going on here? </p>
<p>First remember who is offering the meal. It’s God/Jesus. Second, God/Jesus Is not afraid of the devil. He conquered the devil at the cross. One breath of his would put is enemies on their backs helpless. When God speaks, his word does not return to him void. Look at Isaiah 55:11 </p>
<p> “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” </p>
<p>So why worry when you have superman sitting next to you at the table? </p>
<p>Think about this, when you or I start worrying and stressing over the battle, we are trying to fight the battle on our own. It’s a heavy burden to bear. When we can truly let go of the battle and give it over completely to God, then it becomes God’s problem and not mine or yours to bear. That should release the load of worry and stress. The hardest thing is to truly trust in God and when we are able to do that, then we can enjoy that meal and feel at peace despite our surroundings. Remember, God is on your side.</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/70368292022-08-12T16:18:38-05:002022-11-07T01:48:50-06:00The Greatest Sin – The Greatest Blessing<p><strong>The Greatest Sin – The Greatest Blessing</strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/162619/ea81bce1cf878c6ae844670807b1db768680a8e7/original/greatestsin.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The story of David and Bathsheba is one with a great sin. David was king over Israel, and he had several wives along with several concubines. He noticed a young woman named Bathsheba and was immediately attracted to her. She was the wife of one-man, Uriah, who was at war. David got Bathsheba pregnant and then David tried to cover it up. His attempt failed so he had Uriah killed in battle. </p>
<p>A short time later, he was confronted with this sin by Nathan the prophet. Keep in mind that David was a man after God’s own heart so when David was confronted with this sin, he showed true remorse for his sin. This allowed God to keep him alive, but God made David pay for his sin. God told him that the sword will never leave his house. God gave David so much including the throne and God would have given him more if he would have just asked. </p>
<p>The child he had with Bathsheba he never got to know because the child died. God took the child. Calamity came upon David’s family where there was division. Absalom, David’s son, tried to take the throne from David and David eventually had to see his son Absalom killed. (2 Samuel). David still however sought the Lord with all his heart. </p>
<p>David had a second child with Bathsheba who was Solomon and who eventually became King. God gave King Solomon anything he would ask for and King Solomon asked for wisdom. King Solomon not just had wisdom but wealth and riches too. He wrote the book of proverbs. God here blessed David’s lineage, (with Bathsheba), through Solomon but this is not the greatest blessing. </p>
<p>If you read the genealogy in Matthew 1 From the line of David and Bathsheba to the end, we get JESUS. The Greatest Blessing. The Savior of the World. </p>
<p>You’re probably shaking your head and asking What? How? Why? A detestable sin from one man brings the greatest blessing to all mankind. Its mind boggling. The one thing I see is that David was a man after God’s own heart, and he continued seeking God. God still loved him and still wanted to bless him. </p>
<p>You see we all make bad choices in life that can bring severe consequences. In some cases, God will bring the consequences as he did with David. You may have regrets. But one thing you, I can do is to continually keep seeking God. Nothing can separate you from God’s love and yes, he still wants to bless you despite your circumstance. Do not run from God but run too him. His arms are wide open welcoming you. </p>
<p>Be Blessed</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/69493902022-04-15T16:36:51-05:002022-04-15T16:37:16-05:00Happy Easter - BECOME ALIVE!!!<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/162619/72e85daa9b4c96232b9b7ddb6c01798f5ab22963/original/easter.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>We approach one of the most joyous times of the year to remember and to celebrate. Many tend to ignore Easter and its meaning. We love to celebrate the earthly seasons like, Valentines, Halloween, and the commercial side of Christmas. But what about Easter? </p>
<p>Many people plan for the future with 401k’s. But how far in the future do you plan for? 401k’s only stay on earth. What about planning for your life after you leave the earth? Yes, there are great treasures that await… </p>
<p>This is where Easter comes in. Easter is about the ultimate superhero (GOD) conquering the Biggest Bully (The Devil). This happened by CHOICE, and it happened on a cross. You see, humans are sinful people. We are born into sin and can’t escape it. The sin divides us from God and brings us closer to the Devil. The throne room of heaven cannot have any sin whatsoever which created a problem for God. God loves people and that’s why he created you and me. He wants to spend eternity with you and me in Heaven, so the sin needed to be dealt with. The cost for the sin is blood. Not any blood but blood from one who has no sin. So, Jesus out of compassion came and paid that price for blood out of Love. The devil tried to destroy him at the cross but couldn’t. Jesus conquered death and the debt of sin has been paid if you are willing to accept it. </p>
<p>Here’s an interesting quote from Frederich Buechner <br>“And now brothers, I will ask you a terrible question, and God knows I ask it also of myself. Is the truth beyond all truths, beyond the stars, just this: that to live without him is the real death, that to die with him the only life?” </p>
<p>Is it possible that we may be alive but dead? If we don’t have Jesus, what then is there other than temporary pleasures of earthly things? </p>
<p>Read Romans 8:11 <br>And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you. </p>
<p>You see God wants to share his Glory with you. He will raise you just as he raised Jesus from the dead. And as far as the treasure that awaits: Here it is in Matthew 6:19 -20 </p>
<p>Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. </p>
<p>So, live your earthly life with and for God and then you will see great treasures in Heaven when you really become alive. </p>
<p>My Latest single "Rising Up" is all about how not just the Sun rises but also how the Son ( Jesus) rises in your life. You can check out "Rising Up" at: <a contents="https://soaringsaxman.com/track/2814143/rising-up" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soaringsaxman.com/track/2814143/rising-up" style="">https://soaringsaxman.com/track/2814143/rising-up</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Be Blessed</p>
<p>Sincerely, <br>Dave</p>
<p>Vision: To touch the essence of the inner heart <br>Mission: To open doors that lead to healing of hardships and struggles in life</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/69119002022-03-02T16:20:26-06:002022-03-02T16:20:26-06:00A Tale of 2 Good Samritans<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/162619/4629dd65e068f83a1075e06a29c677b72945b2a4/original/goodsamaitan2.jfif/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jfif" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>The first Good Samaritan is recorded in Luke 10. While a man who was on his way to Jericho, he was attacked by robbers. He was left on the roadside beaten and half dead with barely any clothes on. Both a priest and a Levite passed by and ignored the beaten man that was laid there half dead. </p>
<p>A Samaritan then came by on his donkey and noticed the man that laid there beaten. The Samaritan got off his donkey/ high place and came down to the level of the man that was beaten. The Samaritan bandaged his wounds, lifted the man up on his donkey, and then brought him to an inn so he could be taken care of. At the inn there was a debt to be paid to take care of the wounded man, so the Samaritan paid the innkeeper with 2 coins. The Samaritan had to leave but told the innkeeper to look after the wounded man and on his return, he will reimburse any expenses that were accrued. </p>
<p>Now let’s look at the 2nd Good Samaritan. </p>
<p>Jesus was in the throne room of heaven and his father, God, looked down on humanity and saw something very disturbing. He saw his creation that he loved, living their lives contrary to what God’s purpose is. Humanity was dabbling in a sinful lifestyle. You know a little of this tiny sin and a little of that sin won’t hurt anyone. But it did and does and has destroyed lives. The sinful lifestyle of people became very profitable for others. (Ex: porn, alcohol, drugs). You see, humanity was beaten and left half dead on the roadside. Look what is says in Ephesians 2:1 </p>
<p>As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins </p>
<p>The sad part is that people then and today don’t even realize that they are beaten and half dead. The world passes by and ignores it and doesn’t worry about it. </p>
<p>So, what does Jesus do? He gets off his high place (Heaven) and comes down to earth (the human level). He came and bandaged our wounds by teaching us, sharing his love, performing miracles, healing people, forgiving sins, and telling them about heaven. Jesus was and is trying to get as many people as possible to join him in heaven. </p>
<p>Oh yes, there was a debt to be paid just like there was a debt to pay to the innkeeper. Instead of coins, the price was blood. Jesus’s blood. That blood came on the cross. The good news is, Jesus was raised from the dead, so the debt has been paid. This was an act of love. </p>
<p>As the first Good Samaritan lifted the beaten man on his donkey, Jesus lifts us up as well. Look at these verses: </p>
<p>By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also. </p>
<p> 1 Corinthians 6:14 </p>
<p>Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. </p>
<p> Colossians 3:1 </p>
<p>As the innkeeper said he would return to pay all debts, so will Jesus return but the debt has already been paid. </p>
<p>Be Blessed</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/67885332021-10-27T14:12:26-05:002021-11-03T20:49:20-05:00Feeling an emptiness or void?<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/162619/f43420dc52c4cab3a4865ac5758fab948599ec3b/original/empty.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" />These past couple of years have been rough for some people because of this pandemic. We’ve been locked up and some are not yet comfortable with going out and socializing. That can bring loneliness and can get depressing. There is that feeling of emptiness. Well that’s’ by design… </p>
<p>Huh? What? Let me explain. Humans (you and me) are designed by nature to be social. When that social aspect is missing then things get out of balance. But the social interaction is not just with people it’s with God. That’s right. You see when God created humanity he put a thirst in us for him and most people don’t even know it. I like how A.W Tozer puts it: </p>
<p>“The human heart has a thirst for God. God created us and something in us relates to something in God. Until these two are brought together (salvation), there is restlessness within the human heart that can never be fulfilled”. </p>
<p><em>-- A.W. Tozer</em></p>
<p>We are all designed to interact with God. Why? Because he loves you. People tend to avoid this. So, if you’re feeling lonely and out of touch, then seek to connect with God. I think of John in the bible. When he wrote the book of revelation he was on an island, (Patmos), all by himself with no one else. All he had was God. God gave him revelation to write and God fulfilled his needs. That some serious one on one time with God. </p>
<p>So no need to be restless. God is waiting to hear from you. He may just tell you some great and mighty things you do not know. (Jeremiah 33:3)</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/66801392021-07-06T10:35:15-05:002021-08-17T12:43:12-05:00Preparing For Battle <p>Well we just celebrated July 4th which represents our independence. It did not come easy or cheap. It came with the price of blood and men who never got to experience the freedoms that we have. Today we still have a military that keeps us safe in which I am thankful for. </p>
<p>Some of you may think I don’t need to fight or worry about a battle because someone else is handling that. Well, all of us are in a battle every day and may not even know it. We’re not battling countries but we are at war in our own communities. What war ? The war on drugs, alcholism, sex trade, mass shootings in schools, corruption, injustice, greed, hatred etc. The list goes on. The sad truth is we are part of the problem but we are also the solution to the problem. </p>
<p>The good news is that we can fight the battle. I will be doing a series on how you and I can fight these battles. I hope you’ll stick with me and read these posts. At the end of the series, you will be fully equipped. So let’s see who the enemy is... </p>
<p><strong>1) Know who your enemy is</strong> </p>
<p>The first thing we need to know is who the enemy is. This way we can strategize the attack. </p>
<p>Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12 </p>
<p>For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. </p>
<p>So, most of us have seen Star Wars and we know there is the force and the dark side of the force. With God the force is God and his angels, and the dark side is the devil (Satan) and his demons. </p>
<p>Our fight is not so much against humans as it is against the devil and his demons who can manipulate people in doing things that will destroy lives, relationships, people without realizing it.</p>
<p><strong>2) Prepare For Battle - Know The Enemy’s tactics </strong></p>
<p>We now know who the enemy is and that is Satan and his demons. He is a master of trickery and deception. </p>
<p>in 2 Corinthians 11:14 it indicates that Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. He deceives people. He tempts people and gets them to sin against God and usually ends up destroying your life or others. </p>
<p> In John 10:10 It states </p>
<p>The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. </p>
<p>In John 8:44, John describes the devil as He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. </p>
<p> 1 Peter 5:8 says Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. </p>
<p>In Proverbs 16:25 it says </p>
<p>There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. </p>
<p>Although that temptation may seem good, it will lead to destruction. The devil knows everything about you and your ancestral line. He even knows the word of God. He knows your weaknesses and what your temptations are. He is looking to see who he can devour especially if your guard is down. </p>
<p>One way a criminal wants to get something is they go after someone’s children. We ALL are God’s children so the devil works to come after us to try and get even with God. You see, God created the devil , (Lucifer), and he was the number 2 dude in Heaven next to God. He was an angel and designed for worship and very beautifully created. The devil however got full of pride and tried to overthrow God so God sent him to hell and while doing so other angels followed. The angels that followed the devil into hell are the demons. </p>
<p>So in order to be protected we will need the armor. Stay tuned for What armor is needed.</p>
<p><strong>3) Prepare For Battle - The Armor</strong></p>
<p>When a soldier goes into battle he needs to have the proper armor / protection. Since our battle is against the devil and his demons , we need a certain type of armor. What we fight against is unseen. </p>
<p>In Ephesians 6:13, it describes the armor: <br>“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground. </p>
<p>1) Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist <br>2) with the breastplate of righteousness in place, <br>3) and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. <br>4) In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the <br>flaming arrows of the evil one. <br>5) Take the helmet of salvation <br>6) and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. </p>
<p>The good news about this armor is that it doesn’t cost anything and anyone at any age can use it. Yes it will take practice but any good soldier needs to train. If you want to get started on the armor, then open up the bible and start reading. It's all in there.</p>
<p><strong>4) Prepare For Battle - The Armor -</strong> <strong>Belt of truth </strong></p>
<p>Since we know our enemy is a liar and deceives people, we must have truth on our side. Too many times, battles have been fought on lies or people take actions based on lies and the outcome has always been costly. Even in our news and on social media, it’s hard to know what is true. Since the enemy is the father of lies so that means that Jesus is the truth as it is stated in John 14:6: </p>
<p> Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. " </p>
<p>Look at it this way, Jesus is all truth, or all lies. He's not in between. So, if you find one truth in him, then he is all truth. Very simple. </p>
<p>David prays in Psalm 119:43 " Do not snatch the truth from my lips". </p>
<p>( you can pray that too.) </p>
<p>-- David was a warrior for God and fought many battles. </p>
<p>So, in battle we must always be connected to the truth. If we're not sure about the truth, then ask God for discernment so you will be able to know If it's true or if it's a lie. Discernment is a gift that God gives people. Here’s your first weapon - Discernment. </p>
<p>David writes in Psalm 119:125 </p>
<p>"I am your servant; give me discernment" </p>
<p>In John 8:32, Jesus indicates it is the truth that will set you free. </p>
<p>The only way to know the truth is to stay connected to Jesus. </p>
<p><strong>5) The Armor - Breastplate of Righteousness </strong></p>
<p>The breastplate of righteousness refers to the righteousness purchased for us by Jesus at the cross (2 Corinthians 5:21). </p>
<p>God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. </p>
<p>Righteousness is defined as “acting in accord with divine or moral law; free from guilt.” In this case it is God’s law. He’s the one that will protect you. </p>
<p>At salvation, a “breastplate” is issued to each repentant sinner. It is specially designed by God to protect our heart and soul from evil and deception. A breastplate that is worn by a soldier is also used to protect the heart and other parts of the body. </p>
<p>The heart is where our desires come from and also our temptations. When we are actively pursuing righteousness, (putting on the breastplate of righteousness), we are then equipped to flee the temptations that the devil will use to lure us away from God’s law. When we give into temptation then the breastplate has fallen making us vulnerable without protection. Yes it’s a trick, it's deceit. So by pursuing righteousness, we keep that breastplate in place to make it easier to say no to the temptation. Remember, this is a battle and you can not afford to drop your guard. </p>
<p>Here’s 2 Timothy 2:22 </p>
<p>Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. </p>
<p>The breastplate of righteousness has Christ’s name stamped on it, as though He said, “Your righteousness isn’t sufficient to protect you. Wear mine.” </p>
<p>Keep that breastplate intact and never let it down.</p>
<p><strong>6) The Armor - Feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace </strong></p>
<p>One of the easiest ways for the enemy to succeed in shaking us loose from standing firm is to tempt us with worry. When we carry worry with us, we are robbed of peace. But the gospel of peace keeps our feet anchored and standing firm. </p>
<p>The gospel of peace is the message that Jesus gave to those who trust in Him. It comes with the assurance from God that we are His children, and nothing can snatch us out of His hands </p>
<p>John 10:29 </p>
<p>My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. </p>
<p>The word readiness implies constant vigilance. A victorious soldier had to have studied his enemy’s strategy, be confident in his own strategy, and have his feet firmly planted so that he could hold his ground when the attacks came. </p>
<p>A soldier’s battle shoes were studded with nails or spikes to help him keep his balance in combat. He knew that, if he lost his footing and went down, the enemy had him. When we are ready with the gospel of peace, we live with the understanding that we are under attack from Satan. </p>
<p>We must have confidence of our position in Christ. We must stand firm in the truth of God’s Word, regardless of how terrifying the circumstances may be. </p>
<p>In addition to standing our ground, shoes are also for moving. God expects us to go on the offensive and take the gospel of peace to others. Sharing our faith is one of the best ways to maintain our own sure footing. God knows that, when we are active in speaking of Him to others, we not only charge into Satan’s territory, but we dig our shoes more deeply into truth and will be much harder to dislodge. . </p>
<p>Battles are never convenient so we must always be ready. </p>
<p><strong>7) The Armor - Helmet of Salvation</strong> </p>
<p>A helmet is vital for survival, protecting the brain, the command station for the rest of the body. If the head was badly damaged, the rest of the armor would be of little use. The helmet of salvation provides hope and protects the mind against anything that would disorient or destroy, such as discouragement or deceit. </p>
<p>The assurance of salvation is our impenetrable defense against anything the enemy throws at us </p>
<p>We must learn to keep our helmets buckled so that the devil’s fiery missiles do not lodge in our thoughts and set us on fire. Through this helmet of salvation, we can “destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. </p>
<p>Some ways to keep this helmet fastened and functioning: </p>
<p>Renew our minds. Our minds are battlefields. The outcomes of those battles determine the course of our lives. We must allow God’s truth to continually wash away the world’s filth, lies, and confusion from our minds. </p>
<p>Reject doubts that arise from circumstances. It is impossible to have faith and doubt at the same time. With the helmet of salvation firmly in place, we can choose to believe what appears impossible </p>
<p>Keep an eternal perspective. When life crashes in around us, we must remember to look up. </p>
<p> Remember that victory is already accomplished. When we consider ourselves “dead to sin but alive to God” (Romans 6:11) we eliminate many of the opportunities Satan uses to entrap us. </p>
<p> As we wear the helmet of salvation every day, our minds become more insulated against the suggestions, desires, and traps the enemy lays for us. </p>
<p>David writes in Psalm 140:7 </p>
<p>Sovereign Lord, my strong deliverer, you shield my head in the day of battle</p>
<p><strong>8) The Armor - shield of faith and sword of the spirit </strong></p>
<p>The shield and sword seem to go together which is the most important piece of the Armor I believe. Without faith, there is no victory. Without the word of God, there is no faith. Doubt and worry are tactics of the enemy. Ask God to increase your faith like the man did in Mark 9:24 “Help me to overcome my unbelief”. Faith comes from hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). </p>
<p> A roman shield was not only used as protection but also a way to push soldiers. It was large. Many soldiers could get together with their shields and form an enclosure for protection. Some shields had wet hide on them that would extinguish flaming arrows. </p>
<p> The sword is the word of God. So, it’s important to know the word of God so you can use it at your disposal. That’s how Jesus fought the devil when he was tempted in the desert. Remember we’re fighting an enemy who can’t be seen. So, you need to prepare by memorizing the word of God. Here are some verses to memorize. There’s many more. The more you learn, the stronger your faith and weaker the enemy becomes. </p>
<p> Matthew 19:26 </p>
<p>With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. </p>
<p>Romans 8:31 </p>
<p>If God is for us, who can be against us? </p>
<p>Psalm 118:6 </p>
<p>The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? </p>
<p>Psalm 91:11 </p>
<p>For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways </p>
<p>Psalm 18:29 </p>
<p>With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall. </p>
<p>Phillipians 4:13 </p>
<p> I can do all this through him who gives me strength. </p>
<p>Psalm 118:10 </p>
<p>All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.</p>
<p><strong>9) Secret weapon of Praise and Fasting </strong></p>
<p>One weapon that tends to get overlooked is the praise. This in itself is a powerful weapon because it brings an army of angels to fight. In Judges 1:1. After the death of Joshua, the Israelites asked God who should go in first to fight the Canaanites. God said to send the tribe of Judah in first. </p>
<p>Why Judah? </p>
<p>In Genesis 29:31. Leah wanted her husband Jacob to love her so she had 3 kids thinking that Jacob would love her. It turned out that Jacob did not. So, Leah had a 4th child and this time she said </p>
<p>“This time I will praise the Lord.” So, she named him Judah. Then she stopped having children. </p>
<p> Judah was the praise that went into battle first against the Canaanites. </p>
<p>Another time the Israelites were at battle with the Amalekites. Moses raised his hands to God as a sign or worship and while his hands were raised, the Israelites were winning the battle. When Moses’s arms got tired and he let them down, the Israelites were then losing the battle, so Moses had two men hold up his arms while the battle was going on. This is in Exodus 17. </p>
<p>Fasting is another weapon to use before you go into battle. When fasting, you need to be in prayer with God. He will sustain you and reveal things and give you direction during your fast. Fasting also strengthens you. Jesus fasted 40 days and then was tempted by the devil. Jesus was able to fight off the devil while fasting. </p>
<p>One thing to note is that praising is a verbal outspoken action. This is something that should not be done in thought or a whisper. The same holds true for your sword which is the word of God. The word of God is living so when you use your sword, let it be heard. </p>
<p>Hebrews 4:12 </p>
<p>For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword..</p>
<p><strong>10) The attack </strong></p>
<p>Now that you have prepared for battle with your full armor, You have your sword ready, ( memorized scriptures to attack, ), you lifted your praises, you can go in with confidence. With the full armor, you are never alone. God and his angels will be right there with you. Look at some of these verses: </p>
<p> Ask God for the battle plan too. In James 2:5 , he writes: </p>
<p>If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. </p>
<p>Isaiah 59:19 </p>
<p>When the enemy shall come in, like a flood the Spirit of the Lord shall lift a standard against him. </p>
<p>-- you're not alone </p>
<p> Romans 12:20 </p>
<p>“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. </p>
<p>-- the offense. The attack </p>
<p> 2 Thessalonians 1:6 </p>
<p>God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you </p>
<p>Jeremiah 23:29 </p>
<p>Is not my word like fire,” declares the Lord, “and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces? </p>
<p>-- the sword </p>
<p>You are now ready to fight any battle from anywhere with the full armor. You can fight a battle for people in other countries right from your home because the word of God penetrates. You can fight for your siblings, your marriage, friends, community without them even knowing it. </p>
<p>Remember when using the sword, let it be heard. Stand with confidence. Keep the helmet secured so you don’t get distracted or worn down mentally. Above all, Keep Truth on your side. God is ALL truth!. </p>
<p>This is the last part of Preparing For Battle. I hope you have enjoyed this series. If so please comment. </p>
<p>Thanks for sticking with it.</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/63856162020-07-15T10:37:43-05:002021-12-22T10:35:08-06:00Why doesn’t God respond ?<p>In my last news letter I talked about Injustice. (<a contents="https://soaringsaxman.com/blog/blog/injustice" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soaringsaxman.com/blog/blog/injustice" target="_blank">https://soaringsaxman.com/blog/blog/injustice</a> ).This is sort of a continuation of that. The news gets worse every day and more corruption and injustice seems to be spreading and people are losing control of themselves. This covid-19 pandemic is getting out of control in our nation because people are ignoring the seriousness of it. We hear about people being mistreated. There’s racial tension and now people want to see 100 yr old statues torn down. I don’t know about you but sometimes I wish I could be superman to put an end to this. Wouldn’t be nice to live in a place where there is justice ,common sense and people being treated fairly? Well that was the original plan God wanted when he created the world and humans. Then God did become superman and tried to fix all the issues. </p>
<p>In Genesis 6:5, The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth. So the Lord said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race”. So God created the flood and only one man’s family was saved and that was Noah who found favor with God. With the flood All evil was destroyed meaning all humans except for a few were destroyed. With your sin and my sin, we would have been destroyed as well. God sees all sin , big and little , as sin and wicked. </p>
<p>But because God loved people, he somewhat regretted it and in Genesis 8 he says </p>
<p>“Never again will I curse the ground because of humans, even though </p>
<p>every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood. </p>
<p>And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done </p>
<p>God then created a rainbow as a covenant. So becoming superman and destroying all evil did not work. God tried it and it didn’t go over well for him. God loves people which includes you and God still wants to bring justice to our world. Listen to what Isaiah 51:4 </p>
<p>“Listen to me, my people; </p>
<p> hear me, my nation: </p>
<p>Instruction will go out from me; </p>
<p> my justice will become a light to the nations. </p>
<p>My righteousness draws near speedily, </p>
<p> my salvation is on the way, </p>
<p> and my arm will bring justice to the nations. </p>
<p>So why does there seem to be lack of justice ? Why doesn’t God respond speedily ? Maybe he’s trying to get your attention: Look at Isaiah 58 </p>
<p>“Shout it aloud, do not hold back. </p>
<p> Raise your voice like a trumpet. </p>
<p>Declare to my people their rebellion </p>
<p>Why have we fasted,’ they say, </p>
<p> and you have not seen it? </p>
<p>Why have we humbled ourselves, </p>
<p> and you have not noticed? </p>
<p>Looks like Israel was frustrated with God responding but God was trying to get their attention to make them aware of their rebellion. Fasting was and still is today a way to hear from God and to get God to respond. But here God was not responding. So are you shaking your fist at God like the Israelites were ? Are you frustrated as to why God doesn’t respond ? Look at God’s response continuing in Isaiah 58:4 </p>
<p>“Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please </p>
<p> and exploit all your workers. </p>
<p>Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, </p>
<p> and in striking each other with wicked fists. </p>
<p>“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: </p>
<p>to loose the chains of injustice </p>
<p> and untie the cords of the yoke, </p>
<p>to set the oppressed free </p>
<p> and break every yoke? </p>
<p>Isaiah 59 </p>
<p>Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, </p>
<p> nor his ear too dull to hear. </p>
<p>But your iniquities have separated </p>
<p> you from your God; </p>
<p>your sins have hidden his face from you, </p>
<p> so that he will not hear. </p>
<p>God wants justice but he also is serious about his commandments and being right with God. God knows the human heart is wicked and it’s the wickedness that separates us from God and keeps God from responding. This is why he sent his son Jesus to help us and to fight for us and to cleanse us so we can be right in the eyes of God. God is shouting to get your attention. Jesus is on your side. Will you respond ? Have you had enough of the injustice ? , corruption ? the Insanity ? </p>
<p>Thanks for the letters and the support. Please continue pray for our leaders and the medical community. Also be safe and please take precautions to keep others safe. </p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/63453172020-06-07T10:48:32-05:002022-03-16T09:12:26-05:00Injustice<p>I have to say the news gets more and more depressing. We are living in chaotic times and injustice seems to be spreading rapidly. It’s happening in governments everywhere at all levels and it’s sad. It’s sad about George Floyd. Every morning I spend time praying and one of the things I pray for is for different countries around the world. It’s appalling when I read about how in other countries there are death squads that go around killing street children just to get rid of them. Many governments are so corrupt that they keep their own people living in poverty and children need to turn to sex slavery or gangs because there are no jobs or have no parents or food. I read that in China a family sold their daughter to the sex slavery for $10.00 so they could eat. It just wrong and sick. It’s the evil of greed and power. David wrote about it in Psalm 64: </p>
<p><em>Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, <br>from the plots of evildoers. <br>3 They sharpen their tongues like swords <br>and aim cruel words like deadly arrows. <br>4 They shoot from ambush at the innocent; <br>they shoot suddenly, without fear. </em></p>
<p><em>5 They encourage each other in evil plans, <br>they talk about hiding their snares; <br>they say, “Who will see it?” <br>6 They plot injustice and say, <br>“We have devised a perfect plan!” <br>Surely the human mind and heart are cunning. </em></p>
<p>Looks like David had seen his share of injustice. But here is Hope as <br>Psalm 64 continues: </p>
<p><em>7 But God will shoot them with his arrows; <br>they will suddenly be struck down. <br>8 He will turn their own tongues against them <br>and bring them to ruin; <br>all who see them will shake their heads in scorn. <br>9 All people will fear; <br>they will proclaim the works of God <br>and ponder what he has done. </em></p>
<p>It’s great and comforting that in time God will have the last say and his perfect kingdom will rule over all. We need to hang in there and live our lives the way God wants us to and not give into the temptations of evil or wrongdoing. We must make right decisions and trust God. I like what Romans 12:19 says: </p>
<p><em>..Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. </em></p>
<p>I also like the parable of the persistent widow that is recorded in Luke 18. It’s about an unjust judge and a widow who is persistent about getting justice for her adversaries. Here is God’s response in vs 18:6: </p>
<p>And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. </p>
<p><em>7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? <br>8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. </em></p>
<p>We all need to remember God is in control and we need to keep our eyes focused on Jesus. AND we must always be praying. </p>
<p>Sincerely</p>
<p>Dave</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/63453142020-06-07T10:45:20-05:002020-06-07T10:45:20-05:00Experience The Peace<p>Experience The Peace </p>
<p>This week we come to a very important time in history. It’s Easter week. Easter is important because it’s the time Jesus sacrificed his life for us so we could have the chance to spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven. This is what Jesus’s plan is for ALL humanity. He wants you in Heaven with him and he looks forward to it because he loves you that much. That’s why he sacrificed his life for you. </p>
<p>I came across a very interesting passage in the Bible that identifies with our current time. Did you know that Jesus is weeping over our city, nation, world ? Read this passage from Luke 19:41 </p>
<p>“As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.” </p>
<p>In this volatile time, I believe we are all searching for answers and for peace. It doesn’t matter whether its Jerusalem or your city but the message here is that Jesus is the peace that you are looking for and he’s saddened that some of us are missing out on that. You may be scared or panicking on the inside but please know that Jesus is weeping for you. He has the peace you are looking for. He also has the cure and the power to heal. One of the songs I performed in my house concert was the song “Knock’n On Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan. <br>(<a contents="https://www.facebook.com/SoaringSaxman/videos/247620333058276/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/SoaringSaxman/videos/247620333058276/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/SoaringSaxman/videos/247620333058276/</a>) </p>
<p>I believe many of us are pounding on Heaven’s door, but did you know that ever since you were born, Jesus has been knocking on your door ? and he still is today. Have you let him in ? If not, What’s holding you back ? He has so much he wants to give you and one of those things is Peace. </p>
<p>Sincerly <br>Dave Panico</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/59109082019-09-30T19:21:32-05:002019-09-30T19:21:32-05:00The Missed Blessing<p>This is a story about two men who were very close to Jesus. In fact, they were hand selected by Jesus to be his apostles and to be in his inner circle. The two men are Peter and Judas Iscariot. Both men lived with Jesus and followed him experiencing all the miracles that Jesus performed. We know that Peter was a fisherman and was one that God wanted to build his church upon. This was revealed to him in Matthew 16:18 – </p>
<p>--“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades (Hell) will not ----overcome it.” </p>
<p>We don’t know much about Judas, but we do know that Judas betrayed him. Actually, BOTH Peter and Judas betrayed Jesus. Let’s look at this. </p>
<p>The government leaders were looking for a way to trap or get Jesus because they couldn’t accept his truth so <br>Judas agrees to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. This is recorded in Matthew 26:14. We don’t know why Judas agreed to betray Jesus, but he did. At the last supper Jesus knew Judas was going to betray him and then told Judas to do what he had to do and do it quickly. </p>
<p>On the night that Jesus was arrested, Jesus told Peter that he (Peter) would disown Jesus 3 times before the rooster crows. This is recorded in Matthew 26:31. Here’s Peter’s response: </p>
<p>“Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” – Matthew 26:35 </p>
<p>When the soldiers came and got Jesus, Peter followed him to the place where Jesus was being questioned. While waiting outside, three times people recognized him as being a follower of Christ and each time Peter disowned/denied Jesus. After the 3rd time, the rooster crowed and then Peter remembered the words of Jesus. He then wept bitterly (Matthew 26:74). </p>
<p>So, both men disowned Jesus and Jesus gets crucified on the cross. Three days later Jesus rises and comes to meet his followers. Now it’s interesting to see what happens to these two men. </p>
<p>When Judas realized that Jesus was convicted and was sentenced to be crucified on the cross, He comes to the realization that he has sinned and feels remorse. Judas then tries to return the 30 pieces of silver explaining to the chief priests that he had betrayed innocent blood, but the chief priests didn’t want it because they considered it blood money. So, Judas went away and then hung himself. (Matthew 27:1) </p>
<p>Peter was feeling remorse and some of the same regrets that Judas felt but Peter didn’t try to kill himself. Maybe he felt like it. Jesus comes to Peter, after his resurrection, and asks Peter three questions to restore Peter. Each question Jesus asked Peter started out as “..Do you Love me…” On the 3rd time Peter was hurt, but he was restored and forgiven. He then became a strong advocate for God. Peter received God’s blessing of forgiveness and never disowned Jesus again. </p>
<p>Judas, however, failed to realize that Jesus could have restored him as well, so he gave up and didn’t receive the blessing that Peter received. I believe Jesus would have restored him and would have forgiven him. What Judas also failed to realize is that Judas did not give Jesus up, but it was Jesus who freely and willingly gave his life. He would have done that with or without Judas. It’s sad that Judas missed that after following closely with Jesus for the three years. </p>
<p>There are blessings all around you every day, Don’t miss any. </p>
<p>Sincerely, <br>Dave <br>http://www.SoaringSaxman.com</p>
<p>Vision: To touch the essence of the inner heart <br>Mission: To open doors that lead to healing of hardships and struggles in life</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/58723572019-08-27T20:18:05-05:002019-08-27T20:18:05-05:00Making America Great ?<p><strong>Greatness…</strong> </p>
<p>What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Greatness”? A hero? A friend? Athlete? Politics? We heard in this past election the slogan “Make America Great Again!’. Without getting into a political battle of choosing sides, try and separate the politics and let’s define what greatness would look like. (Note: I am not here choosing a political side but questioning the style of leadership currently in place.) </p>
<p>Recently, we have seen mass shootings stemming from hate crimes. We have seen are leaders, use derogatory words against certain ethnic groups. Fights are breaking out and tensions are high and our law makers tend to look away. I don’t know about you but this is disturbing to me. With all that’s been happening, do you really feel that we as Americans/people are becoming great? </p>
<p>I’d like to share a passage in the bible where King Solomon, (the wisest and richest man ever to live), was King over Jerusalem and the Queen of Sheba came to visit him. Note what the Queen had to say. This is from 2nd Chronicles chapter 9. </p>
<p>5 She said to the king, “The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true. </p>
<p>6 But I did not believe what they said until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half the </p>
<p> greatness of your wisdom was told me; you have far exceeded the report I heard. </p>
<p>7 How happy your people must be! How happy your officials, who continually stand before you and hear your </p>
<p> wisdom! </p>
<p>8 Praise be to the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on his throne as king to rule </p>
<p> for the LORD your God. Because of the love of your God for Israel and his desire to uphold them forever, he </p>
<p> has made you king over them, to maintain justice and righteousness.” </p>
<p>I see a few characteristics of greatness in King Solomon that I’d like to point out. One thing that the Queen pointed was his wisdom. Yes Solomon was the wisest man ever to live. Wisdom is having knowledge and good judgement which is a lot different than favoritism or just appealing to a select few or a certain group of people. </p>
<p>The Queen also noticed that the people he governed along with Solomon’s officials were happy. A good mark of a leader is how happy the people are. Not just the selected few but all people from all backgrounds. She also noted the officials were happy to hear the when the King spoke because of his wisdom. </p>
<p>The 3rd thing is that the Queen saw that God delighted in King Solomon and God made him King so he can maintain justice and righteousness for all people, all groups and all backgrounds. </p>
<p>Now when you look at our country and the state it’s in. and compare it to the way it was when Solomon was King , which one do you think is more closer to “Greatness” ? I think it’s obvious that when God is in charged, Greatness can be achieved. I don’t know about you but I would like to see this type of Greatness everywhere. So how can it be achieved? Don’t depend on a political official or your neighbor, it starts with you. What are you going to do to help make America/ The World great? Let’s not turn into hating people or see people as an invasion but let’s see people as God would see them. God loves all people. He created all people. 1 John 12 says “…but if we love one another, God lives in us..” And 1 John 21 says “…Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” </p>
<p>I wrote a blog about “What Are We becoming?” You can check it out here at h<a contents="ttps://soaringsaxman.com/blog/blog/what-are-we-becomming." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="ttps://soaringsaxman.com/blog/blog/what-are-we-becomming." target="_blank">ttps://soaringsaxman.com/blog/blog/what-are-we-becomming.</a></p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/57470762019-05-08T11:41:28-05:002019-08-12T08:18:43-05:00The Most Important Decision Of Your Life<p>If I asked you what the most important decision of your life is, what would that be? Would it be your Career? Choosing your spouse? What car to drive? Where to Live? Where to invest money ?</p>
<p>These are all important decisions, but they are all worldly /earthly but are useless in the long term (except for choosing your Spouse). We have maybe 80 to 100 years here on earth and then we die. Now what happens? Does the car, investments, house, status career matter now? No, it does not.</p>
<p>When we leave this earth, we are then faced with the reality of who Jesus Christ is. We will see him face to face. All our stuff will not matter. What will matter is if we have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior in our earthly life and lived a life of following him and doing his work in the earthy world.</p>
<p>Easter is the time which celebrates Jesus conquering the plans of the Devil and defeating him. Jesus defeated the devil (Satan) on the cross. The devil didn’t want Jesus to go to the cross. If Jesus dd not go the cross the Devil would have won and there would be no hope of heaven. Jesus had to pay the price to be literally slaughtered for our sin (mistakes – screw ups) so we could get into heaven and have eternal life with Jesus. This was an act of love and Jesus CHOSE to do this. No one took his life. He gave it willingly for you, for me and for every human. This was the ultimate sacrifice and a very precious gift. The question is why would you or anyone refuse to accept this gift? How does one refuse the gift? By rejecting Jesus Christ.</p>
<p>I hear about veterans who sacrificed their lives to give us the freedom we have in this country. When we refuse to vote or do our part, we are rejecting the sacrifice /gift that the veterans gave us.</p>
<p>I want to ask you if you have accepted Jesus? If Not, I’d like to know your reasons. Feel free to email me. After all this is the most important decision of your life.</p>
<p>When you accept Jesus, you not only make an investment in your life but others as well. Jesus has the power, wisdom, love, everything you need for your life. He’s not Political so there’s no bribing or corruption with him. (I like this part). Did you also know there will be more rewards in heaven than what you can obtain in this earthly world? </p>
<p>Oh, I should mention that Jesus did raise from the dead after being brutally slaughtered and then appeared to over 500 people. This is when he defeated the devil, and this is what Easter is all about.</p>
<p>Are you ready to accept Jesus ? It will be the most important decision of your life. </p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/56574972019-02-24T12:20:37-06:002019-02-24T12:20:37-06:00Before you give up, Dive a little deeper<p>I was inspired by a talk T.D. Jakes gave on the book of Luke 5:1. The first part of Luke 5:1 we see Jesus gets out on a boat in the middle of the water to teach the crowds that are on sitting on the shore. It’s interesting that the bible here does not record what Jesus said. I don’t know about you, but Jesus’s words are powerful and alive so I would want to know what he said. Other parts of the bible the words of Jesus are recorded but not here. Now in verse 4 it gets very interesting because it’s more what Jesus does rather than what he said. </p>
<p>Simon( Peter) worked hard all night trying to catch fish but gave up because there was no fish. He and his friends were then washing their nets because there was no catch. Now Jesus comes along and tells Simon (Peter) </p>
<p> <strong> “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” </strong></p>
<p>There’s two things to notice here, the first is Jesus is telling Simon to go out into deep water and not the shallow water. The second thing here is notice that Jesus told Simon to put down their nets (plural - many) and not net (singular - one). </p>
<p>Because Simon believed Jesus, Simon went out into the deep and threw out the nets. This is what happened as recorded in verse 6: </p>
<p><strong>…When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink… </strong></p>
<p>Pretty Amazing!! Simon (Peter) was about to give up but when he went out into the deep with all his nets, He had a blessing so great he needed help to handle it. An overabundance of blessing came his way. </p>
<p>What are you giving up on or ready to give up on? What is your struggle? No matter what it is, try going out deeper with God and go with all your nets and let me know what you catch. I too have struggles in where I feel defeated. We need to keep going deeper because that’s where the treasure is. The great news is the treasure is there waiting for you to get it. No one else will take it. It’s sitting there just for you. </p>
<p>Be Blessed.</p>
<p> </p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/55279762018-11-26T12:47:32-06:002018-11-26T12:49:02-06:00What Are We Becomming<p>It’s really sad what’s been happening in these past couple of weeks. Bombs have been sent to politicians, elderly, weak and helpless people have been killed in a place of worship, kids and teachers being gunned down in their classrooms and we wonder why or what’s going on. What makes this worse is some of our top political leaders promote this kind of evil. I want ask you as I ask myself “What are you becoming?”, “Who do you want to be?” This has nothing to do with what political side you are on but a question on what road do we want to choose not just for ourselves but for others. I’d like to share what 1 Peter 3:8 says: </p>
<p>8 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. </p>
<p>9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. <strong>On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to </strong></p>
<p><strong> this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. </strong></p>
<p>10 For,“Whoever would love life </p>
<p> and see good days </p>
<p> must keep their tongue from evil </p>
<p> and their lips from deceitful speech. </p>
<p>11 They must turn from evil and do good; </p>
<p> they must seek peace and pursue it. </p>
<p>12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous </p>
<p> and his ears are attentive to their prayer, </p>
<p> but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” </p>
<p>I like the part where Peter indicates that when repay evil with blessing, we (you) will inherit a blessing. Isn’t that what we want in our lives are blessings? I know I do. </p>
<p>I’d like to ask a hard question here, Do you support this type of evil or are you in agreement with it? The bombs being sent, or people being gunned down in a synagogue. If you do, then ask if this will bring blessing in your life. Do you want blessing in your life? </p>
<p>I want to challenge you, (and myself), to spread some peace/blessing this week. We can start by praying for our leaders. It doesn’t matter what political party you support. ALL of our leaders in ALL branches of our government need our prayer. Pray also for our enemies whether its personal enemies or the enemies we hear about in the news.</p>
<p>Spread Peace and be blessed</p>
<p> </p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/52946012018-06-13T22:55:20-05:002023-12-10T11:40:02-06:00Was Jesus A Nut Case ?<p>An interesting question that many have thought about if Jesus was a mental case. Well I heard an interesting sermon this past week that I would like to share with you. (Thanks Nathan). Most people would agree that Jesus was a nice guy, a great prophet, teacher etc. That is all true but if we stop there we miss the best part. We miss the treasure. Jesus claimed and is the Son of God. </p>
<p>Please keep reading. </p>
<p>Being God in the flesh brings a whole new and exciting dimension that is probably the greatest gift in our lives.Something we not want to miss out on. Let’s look at a passage in John 18 vs 1. </p>
<p>1)When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it. <br>2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. <br>3 So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. <br>4 Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” <br>5 “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied.“I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) <br>6 When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. </p>
<p>I find the reaction of the soldiers very interesting and maybe somewhat humorous. Keep in mind that these soldiers were well-trained along with being mean, tough, and very strong. Probably the best trained soldiers. The soldiers were looking for Jesus and when Jesus told the soldiers that he was Jesus, what did the soldiers do? Did they attack and go after him with shouts of charge? NO! THEY FELL TO THE GROUND!! These mean tough guys out for blood just fell to the ground. What did Jesus do to make them fall to the ground? All he did was he told the soldiers that he is Jesus and it is he is who they are looking for. He did it without any weapons. </p>
<p>How could a nut case have that kind of power over an army of very well-trained soldiers? A nut case cannot. Only the presence of a powerful loving God can. God guides, protects and loves us in a way that we cannot fully understand. God wants to be a part of our lives. He wants that relationship and yes he wants you to enjoy life, have fun and shower you with his many blessings. Do not miss the treasure that’s right in front of you. </p>
<p>Thanks for your support and please take care and keep the emails coming. Also remember to pray for leaders and our schools. </p>
<p>Sincerely <br>Dave </p>
<p>Vision: To touch the essence of the inner heart <br>Mission: To open doors that lead to healing of hardships and <br>struggles in life</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/52085372018-04-29T12:57:48-05:002018-04-29T12:57:48-05:00What Is Your Warship ?<p>What is your Warship? </p>
<p>An interesting question. What is your warship? Let’s first define what a warship is. It’s a vessel/large boat that caries weapons, missiles, guns that is used for battle to defeat/cripple the enemy. When used in battle, it can do some serious damage. Our government has used it very effectively. </p>
<p>When we hear about human disasters such as innocent kids/teachers being gunned down and killed for the sake of some kind of sick sport, what do we do? Or when we hear about terrorist activity in other nations against innocent people what do we do? What warship can we use? A boat with missiles and guns is probably not going to be very effective. Political decisions tend not to be very effective either. Most of us are frustrated because we don’t know what to do to stop this kind of evil. Refer to the passage that Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12 </p>
<p>“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” </p>
<p>Paul states here that are fight is not against flesh and blood but an enemy that we cannot see. Most of us have seen or are familiar with “Star Wars” where there was the force (good side) and the dark side (bad). Luke had to use the force to defeat the dark side. When Paul refers to spiritual forces in the heavenly realms, he is referring to the devil and his demons. This is the dark side. Now God has his angels which are the force (good side) that battles these demons. </p>
<p>How can we get the Angelic to defeat the Demons? Paul tells us about we need to put on our armor here in Ephesians 6:13 </p>
<p>Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. </p>
<p>There’s a lot here that Paul talks about. I want to talk about some of the key pieces. One being the Shield of Faith. Paul writes we can extinguish ALL the flaming arrows of the evil one. One of the most important things he mentions is the word of God which is the sword we use to attack the enemy. It’s funny that as humans we want to get our guns, missiles, bows, arrows, knives, whatever physical weapons we can grab to defeat the evil we hear about. In some cases we need these but Paul says using the word of God to attack the enemy in many cases is more effective than physical weapons. The great thing about using the word of God is you can fight/defeat wherever the enemy is from wherever you are. God’s word is powerful. It’s like sending a missile at will at any time. The word of God becomes the Warship. </p>
<p>Another key ingredient to battling an enemy we cannot see is to use praise and worship to God. Worship is like an undergarment of praise that can be included as part of the armor that Paul refers to. When we worship, Gods Angels become strong to defeat the enemy. When Paul and his companions were in chains in prison, they decided to worship God by singing and praising. The chains eventually broke making all the men free. There are many references in the bible that during a battle, a group were praising while others were fighting. </p>
<p>It’s interesting on how the words Warship and Worship differ by one letter but both are used to defeat an enemy in battle. </p>
<p>What is your Warship? </p>
<p>Sincerely, </p>
<p>Dave</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/49794342017-12-15T14:08:32-06:002022-01-27T10:59:01-06:00Are You Ready For God's Peace Yet ?<p>A friend of mine sent this to me and I thought it was just too good not to share. </p>
<p>Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her "How God could let something like this happen?" (Regarding the attacks on Sept. 11). Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said "I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?" In light of recent events...terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found recently) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK. Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said OK. Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves. Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with "WE REAP WHAT WE SOW." Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace. </p>
<p>Are you ready to try God ? </p>
<p>God bless you as you share it with friends.</p>
<p>No Nation or people can ever survive or succeed without Jesus Christ.</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/45890232017-02-13T19:44:32-06:002017-02-13T19:44:32-06:00Stitch Me Back Up <p>I was pondering the words of Psalm 139 when David Wrote: <br><br>13 For you created my inmost being <br>you knit me together in my mother’s womb. <br> <br>Before we physically entered this world, we were stitched and knitted and created in a perfect way. As we then entered the real world and grew older and wiser, we experienced hurt, brokenness, disappointment, etc. We may have gone down the wrong path and had to deal with the consequences. Some of us may have been hurt so much we can’t experience love. Wouldn’t it be nice if we can get stitched back up to the way God had us before we entered the world? Ever think on how we would be or lives would be where we can be and think the way God created us without all the baggage, hurt and disappointment? <br><br>If you ever watched Toy Story, I think about the part when Woodie had his arm ripped from a pop seam and his arm was just dangling. A specialist was then called in to stitch him back up for show purposes. This specialist not only stitched him back up but gave him a polish, repainted some areas, and made him look brand new again. Just like he was from the moment he was initially designed. Wouldn’t that be nice if we could have that same make over? Not just on the outside but more importantly on the inside? <br><br>Well God is able to do that and he wants to do that for us. Here is an excerpt from Psalm 139: <br><br> 13 For you created my inmost being; <br> you knit me together in my mother’s womb. <br>14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; <br> your works are wonderful, <br> I know that full well. <br>15 My frame was not hidden from you <br> when I was made in the secret place, <br> when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. <br>16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; <br> all the days ordained for me were written in your book <br> before one of them came to be. <br><br>Psalm 139 <br><br>Thanks for hanging with me and your support. Please keep the emails coming and remember to Bless others by praying for our leaders <br>Sincerely, <br>Dave</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/45015622016-12-07T21:35:46-06:002016-12-07T21:36:44-06:00Democrats, Republicans or God Part 2 ? <p>In my last newsletter I received many comments about a blog I wrote called Democrats, Republicans or God ?. This is part 2 of this blog. You can read the 1st part at <a contents="Democrats , Republicans or God Part 1" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://soaringsaxman.com/blog/blog/democrats-republicans-or-god" target="_blank">Democrats , Republicans or God Part 1</a><br> <br>So I hope you have had or will be reading 1st Kings and 2nd Kings in the bible. How’s is your prayers going ? Have you been praying for our leaders, the new leadership, the new congress ? <br> <br>Some may say that they don’t want to pray, or maybe some believe that certain people don’t deserve prayers. Well, I would like to address these issues so maybe after reading this you may have an incentive to pray. <br> <br><strong>What if that person does not deserve our prayers? </strong><br>I guess if we really hate that person we don’t want to pray for them but we need to ask ourselves “Who are we to decide that someone doesn’t need prayers?” Jesus died for everyone so we would ALL have a chance for heaven and forgiveness. If we pray for someone and they turn to good, then it’s a win situation and that’s the goal. We may find it hard to love another but not Jesus. We’re all sinners. </p>
<p><strong>What if the person is good and is doing everything perfect ? </strong><br>GREAT!! We still then need to pray for these people so they keep on doing good and not get drawn into corruptness and evil. <br><br><strong>What if the person is really mean and has really wronged you ? </strong><br>In addition to reason 1, Look at Romans 12:20: <br> <br>If your enemy is hungry, feed him; <br> if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. <br>In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” <br> <br>I like the part about heaping burning coals on their head. That should give some satisfaction. <br>So now there’s no reason not to pray. If you feel you really can’t pray or don’t want to then let <br>Me know so then I can pray that you will pray. <br> <br>Thanks for your support and your emails. Be blessed and bless others by praying for our leaders. <br> <br> <br>Dave</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/44685482016-11-15T18:31:22-06:002016-11-15T18:31:22-06:00Democrats, Republicans or God ? <p>What a turmoil it’s been with this past election. This past election has created so much division and hate. Normally you don’t see these kinds of reactions from an election. So many ask ourselves what happened? Even the news people are asking what happened? Totally unexpected. <br> <br>I want to challenge you to read through the book of Kings and Kings 2 in the Old Testament in the bible. I’ll summarize it here. <br> <br>God tells his people that he wants to be their King. God already proved to them that he can provide and protect them. After all he led them out of slavery across the desert and provided for their every need. The people’s response to God was NO we want a human king to lead us so God gave the people what they wanted. So Many kings came and went over a period of many years and just about all of the human kings were corrupt and did evil in the eyes of the Lord. The people got what they wanted. <br> <br>So this election had choices on the ballot that most of us were not happy with but we still had a responsibility to vote and someone was going to be elected. So now our country faces some uncertainty where some are feeling scared. I, You, all of us now have a great responsibility and that is to PRAY! . PRAY for our government and leaders. It does not matter who you voted for of even if you voted, We need God to hear us. God is able to turn the minds of our leaders toward his will. God’s decision and his wisdom would be the best for ALL. Please understand that I am not here choosing a political side. <br> <br>If you choose not to pray, then you have no reason to complain. Protests will only go so far, but God can do more than what you can ever imagine. So who is on your ballot? Democrats, Republicans, Independents or God? God is always available and never has term limits… <br> <br>Be Blessed and help bless others by praying for our leaders.<br><br>Sincerely,<br>Dave</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/42721422016-07-10T09:50:40-05:002016-07-10T09:51:28-05:00Our Gift Of Freedom<p>When we think of freedom, what do we think of? Some may think freedom means doing whatever we want without no rules or limits. Some others may think of freedom as being free from a controlled environment. But when we think about the freedom of doing whatever we want, that type of “freedom” leads to bondage and destruction and in some in cases slavery which is the very thing we want to avoid. Think about it, If a person wants to drink alcohol and drive, (freedom to do what they want), that can lead to loss of life, loss of limbs, being paralyzed.. Is this freedom? This is bondage. What about a gunman who exercises their freedom of gunning down elementary kids because he/she may think it’s their right? Is this freedom? No this is Hell, destruction. What about our sexual freedom? That has led to all sorts of diseases, rising health care costs, unwanted pregnancies which in some cases leads to abortions. Again, is this freedom? No its destruction.<br><br>This type of freedom puts you in a box. True freedom has limits and boundaries. God created humans and he showed us and gave us a manual on how we should live our lives. That manual is called the bible. Yes it has rules and instructions on how we are to live but living by those rules gives us total and true freedom. When our law makers make laws that are contrary to God’s laws or when we disobey God’s laws, those decisions usually have consequences that can lead to bondage and destruction. Without God there is no freedom. God gave us the boundaries in order to save us from the hell and destruction of living our freedom without boundaries.<br><br>Do you realize that the freedom we have in our country came with a huge price? Our forefathers prayed diligently so we can have the freedom we have. Many men fought battles and died for the freedom we have. It did not come cheap and it did not come without bloodshed. So when a person comes out and speaks freely about not wanting God in our government and schools, it’s only because God gave that person the freedom to speak that. Maybe they should live in a country where God is forbidden and see if they like that climate any better. <br> <br>Here is just a sample of some wisdom of the bible. The bible says we should get wisdom at any cost. This is what wisdom does for us:</p>
<p><strong>There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death</strong>. <br>--Proverbs 14:12 <br> <br><strong>Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the life of those who get it. </strong><br>--proverbs 1:19 <br> <br>(Gaining Wisdom) <br><strong>for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. </strong><br>--proverbs 3:2 <br> <br>(Get Wisdom at Any Cost) <br><strong>for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. </strong><br>--Proverbs 4:22</p>
<p>Enjoy the freedom you have. It is a gift from God. He wants us to live in the freedom he gave us. Use it to benefit others. Remember true freedom does have boundaries and that is for our benefit. <br> <br>Be blessed.</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/40880142016-03-14T21:08:22-05:002022-05-10T12:17:29-05:00Be Strong and Courageous<p>This was a command that God gave Joshua after the death of Moses. God wanted to Joshua to lead the people into the promise land. This is recorded in Joshua 1:1<br> </p>
<p>1: After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2: “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3: I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses… <br><br>5: No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6: <strong>Be strong and courageous</strong>, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.<br><br>7 “<strong>Be strong and very courageou</strong>s. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? <strong>Be strong and courageous</strong>. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”<br><br>God emphasized and commanded Joshua three times to be strong and Courageous. God didn’t say it would be easy taking the land. He knew it was going to be tough. God also said that he would give Joshua every place where he set is foot. God comforted Joshua by telling him not to fear or be discouraged because God will be with him. Even with this comforting thought it still may have been somewhat scary for Joshua. If God asked you to jump in the fire and he told you that you would not get burned, would you do it? Human nature would say no. That’s why God affirmed Joshua and commanded him to be strong and Courageous and to mediate on God’s word and to obey it. The law book was the road map. It’s contains the cheat codes, it’s has the hidden secrets on how to win. God asked Joshua to know that. The wonderful part here is that God’s command also lead Joshua to receive a great blessing. God wanted to bless Joshua and he wants to bless you.<br><br>What is God commanding you to do so he can give you such a great blessing ?<br><br>Go grab that blessing<br><br>Dave</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/40176532016-01-31T16:03:52-06:002022-05-10T12:17:04-05:00Bumba-Way - A Father's Joy <p>Recently my song "Bumba-Way ,made number 1 on the charts at Number1music.com so I’d like to share with you on how this song came to be. This song is off my 2nd cd – “JoyRid’N”. </p>
<p>“Bumba-Way” has a calypso island feel that is performed on a flute. The title came from a silly kid’s song that I made up and sang to my kids when they were very little. I would sing this song to my kids while I would drive them around. They would be strapped in their car seat and I started singing a song that had the words “Bumab-Way” in it. I kept singing this song from time to time until one day my oldest son, Henry, when he was about 3 started singing the song back to me. My daughter started to do sing the song back as well. I thought this was so cool and I honestly felt a lot of joy from this. I said then, I’m going to record a song called “Bumba-Way”. So as I started composing songs for my 2nd cd “JoyRid’n” I worked on a song called “Bumba-Way”. </p>
<p>Now as I was writing “Bumba-Way”, I wanted to put meaning to this and so I thought about it for a while and then it hit me – “A Father’s Joy”. Think about this, what if we were in the back seat and Jesus was in the front driving? And what if he started to communicate with us and then we communicated back to him as little children? Do you know that this brings so much joy to Jesus? Even as adults we are considered God’s children and when we come to him in prayer and share our hearts or just talk to him, he experiences so much joy. Why? Because he loves you, He created you, and he died for you. </p>
<p>As parents, I know you experience joy when or as your kids are discovering their world. Jesus has even more joy when we discover more about him and his word. He continues to show us new things. <br>One great truth here is that it does not matter who your parents are, It does not matter what circumstances brought you into the world, it does not matter what situation you are in. Know this: </p>
<p><strong>YOU are God’s child. YOU are his joy. YOU have access to all his blessings and his inheritance. Now , go Grab it and don’t waste the BLESSING!!! </strong></p>
<p>Thanks for being a fan <br><br>Listen to "Bumba-Way" here: <a contents="Bumba-Way" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://soaringsaxman.com/track/958306/bumba-way-a-father-s-joy?feature_id=180122">Bumba-Way</a></p>
<p>God Bless</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/39822492016-01-09T20:18:22-06:002016-01-09T20:18:22-06:00Don't Waste The Blessing<p>How many times have we received something where we may have taken it for granted or we may without realizing it left some of the blessing behind and missed out? I’m sure this has happened to me more than once. We just celebrated Christmas and many gifts were given and if we are honest, some gifts we may be disappointed in. I’d like to share a story from the bible about when Jesus fed 5000 people with 2 fish and 1 loaf of bread. This is recorded in John 6 verse </p>
<p><em>10: Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). <br>11: Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish. <br>12: When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, <strong>“Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” </strong><br>13: So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.</em> </p>
<p>After the 5000 people had eaten, Jesus tells his disciples to gather the left over pieces and let nothing be wasted. Jesus did not say why or what the left overs would be used for. There were no refrigerators in that day so food would spoil quickly. </p>
<p>There was very little to start with. Jesus gave thanks and then the blessing was multiplied until the point where everyone was full. There was even extra. Now the people may have walked away from the left overs but Jesus said do not let nothing be wasted. The extra blessing was there and the people could have missed it. </p>
<p>Be aware of the blessings in your life and don’t waste them. Don’t leave any behind either or you’ll miss out on something great. Every Day is a new day so don’t waste it. <br><br>Be Blessed<br><br>Dave <br>www.SoaringSaxman.com</p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/39640492015-12-14T18:14:19-06:002020-06-28T10:25:57-05:00A Humble ChristmasThis past week I was touched by a story that made some news about a letter to Santa that was found in a Chimney 60 years after it was written. The boy wrote it asked for the following:<br> <br><em>Dear Father Christmas,<br>Please can you send me Rupert Annual and a drum, box of chalk, soldiers and Indians, slippers, silk tie, pencil box, any little toys you have to spare.<br>Love, David</em><br> <br>I was touched by how humble this boy was when he wrote it. Obviously this was a different time but the humility is what was touching and something I think we have gotten away from. Today it’s about Black Friday, Give me the ipad, the xbox, etc.. I even heard that some mall in Chicago was charging an extra fee just so kids can jump the line to see Santa so they don’t have to wait like everyone else. Personally I find this tasteless and disgraceful. It’s sad on we are losing the real meaning of Christmas.<br> <br>Christmas is about giving but more so it’s about giving in a spirit of humility or sacrificially. Christmas is about Jesus. Now I know this name “Jesus” stirs a lot of controversy even to the point where a federal judge has to tell a high school play they can’t have a nativity scene in their play. (Really ? Come On..). Anyway, God gave his son Jesus to pay the ultimate sacrifice of his death so that you and I do not have to spend eternity in a place of nonstop suffering. This was a paid ransom in advance. The human birth of Jesus is why we celebrate Christmas. God gave up his son Jesus sacrificially. This is something we all should continually be thankful for. You may not realize it now but someday, the xbox, HDTV, Ipad, etc will not matter. The only that will is what you did with your life to help others and acknowledging that Jesus is Lord.<br> <br>I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas. Thanks for being a fan<br> <br>Sincerely,<br> <br>Dave<br>www.SoaringSaxman.com<br> Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/39027212015-10-18T16:43:32-05:002021-04-16T08:51:18-05:00Giving To God<p>When we think about this topic we all first think of money right? Well that's not always the case.<br><br>In Mark 12, The Pharisees, (Government leaders), asked Jesus if it was right to pay taxes to Caesar.<br><br>Jesus said, "<em>Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.</em>"<br><br>They brought the coin, and he asked them,<br>"<em>Whose image is this? And whose inscription?</em>" <br><br>"Caesar's," they replied. <br><br>Then Jesus said to them,<br>"<em>Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's.</em>"<br><br>One may think this is about paying taxes and money. In one case that can be but tread what it says in <br>1 Corinthians 6:19<br><br>"<em>Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? <br>You are not your own; you were bought at a price.</em>"<br><br>Go back to what Jesus said, "So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." What is God's? <br>Well in 1 Corinthians it's your body, it's your soul. You are not your own and you have been bought with a huge price. That price is the blood Jesus shed on the cross for ALL people. Why? So we would be free from hell and be able to enter into Heaven. Without bloodshed, there is no forgiveness so Jesus became that sacrifice once and for all for past and future sins of ALL people regardless of who they are or how they turn out. <br><br>So this means that sin doesn't own you. Drugs do not own you, Alcohol doesn't own you, and Lust doesn't own you. Whatever the sin or struggle is, it does not own you!! Jesus paid the price so we can be free of all that. <br><br>Give to God what is God's<br><br>Be Blessed. </p>Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/38669202015-09-21T22:52:28-05:002015-09-24T11:46:15-05:00Being One With GodEver wonder if it were possible to be one with God ? As humans we think to ourselves that God is so far set apart from us that we can never achieve that oneness with God. Throughout the book of John, Jesus mentions that he is one with father and he does what the father "God" does. He also tells his disciples that if you've seen me , you've seen the father. Another words if you've seen Jesus, you've seen God. In John 17:20 when Jesus knew he was leaving this world, here is part of his prayer that he prayed for all people:<br><br>"I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me." <br>--John 17:20<br>Based on what Jesus prayed for, it is possible to obtain oneness with God. It's what God WANTS!!!. Amazing uh .. Look at what it says in Hebrews 2:11:<br><br>Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.<br>--Hebrews 2:11<br>Here again Hebrews is indicating we and God are from the same family because it is God that makes us holy. Being one with God also has one more awesome benefit that Jesus expresses in John 15:4:<br><br>"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my -Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, .."<br>--John 15:4<br><br>Be BlessedDave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/38629162015-09-21T17:45:16-05:002020-11-17T08:55:44-06:00What to do in the midst of chaos and adversityA missionary sent this letter to me about the situation in Iraq. As the insurgents were moving closer to Bagdad, a pastor, in Bagdad, offered the following prayer:<br><br>"A beautiful morning to a beautiful church, rising up in prayer, standing on the walls and calling out.<br><br>Yes, Lord, we declare a new morning today full of your goodness and righteousness, full of your blessings and provisions. Today we come to declare that you are good and your mercy endures forever. You are good despite the hard circumstances, the accusations of the devil, and his war. <br><br>We are thankful for your salvation, your freedom, and your healing. I thank you for my wife and my wonderful children. Thank you for the wonderful ministers with whom we serve. Thank you for my country, Iraq, that You have put me in.<br><br>Lord, put a guard on my mouth and remove all negative things from my tongue, thoughts, and heart. Remove all unbelief, rebellion, complaints, and disobedience from my life.<br><br>Lift up my eyes from all the events around me and direct my eyes to You. Dazzle my eyes this morning. Let me see your majesty, power, authority, and strength. Let me see your glory and greatness so I won't shake because of the storm around me.<br><br>Lord, open our eyes to see the angelic forces sent by You for our protection. The devil wants to bring fear and despair, and he wants us to give up. Lord, raise up heroes. Let them roar like lions, standing at the gates of hell, proclaiming, "Iraq is the Lord's! Step back, Satan. Leave this land, for Iraq belongs to the Lord."<br><br>Don't let fear steal our calling and our mission. You have put us in this country to pray for it, not to run away and leave it. Help us bless this country and not to curse it. Help us put bandages on its wounds and not increase them with our words.<br><br>Lord, have compassion. Forgive. Heal our land. Lift the curse. Heal the wounds. Comfort the mourners. Visit us, remember us, and revive us. Let your light shine upon us. Amen."<br><br>What a powerful, inspiring, convicting prayer! What an attitude... <br>May we live our lives with such a commitment to our Lord, ready to praise His name and serve Him wholeheartedly, no matter the circumstances.Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/38629202015-09-21T17:45:03-05:002022-05-11T09:10:12-05:00Ever wonder what God Thinks Of You ?I was reading through Psalm 18 where David was in distress. The enemy was attacking David. As David puts it , <br>the enemy was powerful and was even too strong for him. The cords of death entangled him. The snares of death confronted him. The torrents of destruction overwhelmed him.<br><br>So what did David do ? <br>He cried out to God for help. He called on God, his fortress, his deliverer, his shield, his stronghold. The one who is worthy of praise.<br><br>From the throne, God heard David's cry . It came before him into his ears.<br><br>So what did God do ?<br>He stayed silent and did nothing Right ? Not Quite....<br><br>Here's what happened :<br><br>The earth trembled and quaked, <br>and the foundations of the mountains shook; <br>they trembled because GOD was angry !!! ( Uh Oh... Look out ) <br><br>Smoke rose from his nostrils; <br>consuming fire came from his mouth, <br>burning coals blazed out of it ( Holy #@!& better run ) <br><br>He parted the heavens and came down; <br>dark clouds were under his feet.<br><br>He mounted the cherubim and flew; <br>he soared on the wings of the wind. <br><br>Out of the brightness of his presence clouds advanced, <br>with hailstones and bolts of lightning (this is going to hurt.. )<br><br>The LORD thundered from heaven; <br>the voice of the Most High resounded<br><br>He shot his arrows and scattered the enemy, <br>with great bolts of lightning he routed them<br><br>The valleys of the sea were exposed <br>and the foundations of the earth laid bare <br>at your rebuke, LORD, <br>at the blast of breath from your nostrils<br><br>GOD reached down from on high and took hold of me; <br>he drew me out of deep waters.<br><br>GOD rescued me from my powerful enemy, <br>from my foes, who were too strong for me.<br><br>GOD then brought me out into a spacious place<br><br>Why in the world would GOD make such noise for David or for you ?<br><br>The answer is in verse 19:<br>BECAUSE HE DELIGHTS IN YOU.....<br> Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/38629182015-09-21T17:44:43-05:002015-09-21T17:44:43-05:00The Act Of SurrenderingSometimes we get to point where we have nowhere else to go. We hit a low, a wall and all of our efforts seem like a total waste or we don't have the resources to proceed. We then get to that point where we're down on our knees, with our hearts and hands open crying out to God and just saying "take it all..." <br><br>When we are at that point, we are not just surrendering what we have to God but we are in a state to RECEIVE what God wants to give us. We can never accept a gift if our hands, hearts and minds are closed. So God sometimes has to get us to that point so he can give us what he wants us to have.<br><br>Be blessed<br> Dave Panico - Saxophonisttag:soaringsaxman.com,2005:Post/38629192015-09-21T17:41:08-05:002018-12-27T06:08:00-06:00Fill your child with MusicI'm a firm believer that all kids should be exposed to playing an instrument even if it's for a year or 2. It really exposes the kid to a whole new world at a young age, I believe it makes connections in the brain as well. This past weekend, I needed to go to the violin shop to pick up a case for my daughter's violin so I took my 10 year old son, Samuel, with me. Samuel plays piano and is learning how to swing the music. So when we were in the violin shop, I showed Samuel all the violins and then I showed him all the big string basses which are way bigger than he is. The staff person who helped us, happens to be a bass player so he pulled out one of those string basses and started playing it in front of my son Samuel. I asked the staff person to play some swing and so he did. I could see in the eyes of Samuel that he was impressed and tuned in. He was never exposed to someone playing a big string bass like that. It's great to see people experience things for the first time.<br> Dave Panico - Saxophonist