Courageous Integrity

And here's the edition for the week of January 21, 2018:  Courageous Integrity.

A Cop's Legacy

This week's newsletter and devotional has gone out to our worldwide readership but, as always, I've posted it here again as well (shoot me your email address if you want to be signed up -- it's FREE and a great op for you forward our devotions on to others in obedience to the Great Commission. Just click on A Cop's Legacy -- part 3 of our current 4-part series adapted from the film Courageous and the Courageous Living Bible Study (Law Enforcement Edition). I truly believe that God will speak to you through this week's devotion if you'll take the time to prayerfully answer His call.

In addition, I wanted to let folks in the Denver area know that our own Jim Wattles has responded to the SEND portion of our WIN, DISCIPLE, SEND focus of our ministry by starting a new law enforcement outreach. I've posted the Flat Foot Law Enforcement Ministry announcement and schedule in the Event Schedule section here on our website (eyes left/scroll down). Area LEOs and their spouses now have at least three different fellowships that they can attend and we continue to encourage you to join us. This kind of fellowship is a biblical mandate -- we look forward to seeing and challenging you.

Let's stay the course in Him and know that Diana and I are here for you in any way we can be.

MC

Police Lieutenant and Chaplain Michael "MC" Williams
Director, The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry
Vice President, Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA
fullarmor911@yahoo.com
(720) 371-1022

"A Cop's Priorities"

This week's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO newsletter and devotional has gone out to our worldwide subscribers (FREE) but here it is again in case you missed it: just click on "A Cop's Priorities" (Courageous Priorities) -- Part 2 of our current 4-part Bible study series based on the film Courageous. As always, the newsletter includes a wealth of news, announcements, links, resources and more -- check it out and pass it on.

If you're in the Denver area, don't forget that we are hosting our 2nd joint (Capstone and Centurion) law enforcement baptism service tonight at Calvary Chapel Castle Rock starting at 6:30. If you've been born again (saved) but have not yet fulfilled God's command to be baptized (no, infant baptism does not count), then bring a towel and a change of clothes and come join us tonight. See newsletter for details.

Again folks, the time is short. Let's have a "Code 3" sense of urgency in living and sharing Christ with others.

Blessings!

Lt. M.C. Williams
Director, The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry
VP, Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers -- USA

The Rob Parks Story -- A Cop's Testimony: TCLEM/FCPO-Denver Newsletter for Week of March 19, 2012

We had a great turnout for last week's monthly foray to Aurora where I taught on the subject of "God, Cops & the Military." My RECAP follows below. As always, feel free to adapt for your own studies, devotions and your life in general.

This week's (Thursday, March 22nd, 7 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton) "Cop Church" fellowship will feature Denver PD Officer Rob Parks who will share his unique testimony and a biblical view of police marriages. If you're in the Denver area, bring your spouse, invite a colleague and join us for a great time of profession-relevant Bible study, prayer and outstanding servant-warrior fellowship. I'll of course post a detailed recap for our world-wide readership in next week's newsletter and of course we encourage you to pass on these newsletters to others on your email lists.
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Message RECAP: God, Cops & the Military


When God called me to lead an outreach to share the Gospel with my fellow servant-warriors (police, deputies, investigators, corrections, combat military personnel, etc.), my study of His inerrant Word, the Bible, revealed a plethora of EVIDENCE (as cops we're all about the evidence) that it is unquestionably, among many other things, a military and police "policy and procedure manual." Moreover, the signature passage for The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry -- Romans 13:1-7 -- provides our commission as God's ordained "ministers for good and a terror against evil." In fact, a paraphrase of the first four verses of this passage would rightfully read, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities (which includes but is not limited to law enforcement). For God establishes ALL government and law enforcement authorities, and the police officer is appointed by God. Therefore whoever disobeys the government and its enforcement officers resists the ordinances and laws of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For the police are not a terror to those who obey the law and do good, but to those who do evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the police? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For the police officer is God's minister to you for good and a terror against evil. The officer does not bear the sword (firearms in today's world) in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath (including the death penalty) on evil doers. 1 Peter 2:13-17 conveys a similar message.

Secondly, many wrongly point to the word "kill" as translated in the King James Version of the Bible (Thou shalt not kill -- 6th Commandment, Exodus 20) as a prohibition against law enforcement and military service. However, the correct translation from the original Greek and Hebrew is actually MURDER, not "kill" (see the excellent GotQuestions.org article on same). Accordingly, the whole of Scripture directs God's servant-warriors to righteously stamp out evil and evil doers in accordance with His direction and will (and the law of the land).

Thirdly, is God calling us to obey the government, our supervisors, commanding officers, etc. without question or when asked to do something evil or unethical? Definitely NOT! Yes, Paul wrote Romans 13:1-7 when Roman Emperor Nero -- one of the most vile despots in history -- was in power and killing Christians in the most horrendous of ways. However, the whole context of scripture reveals that we can and even must resist authorities who compel us to go against God's Word (God establishes the government but those in authority still have to free will to govern biblically -- or not (sin). LAPD officer-turned-minister Bill Rhetts has an outstanding short video on this topic that I highly recommend. See Law Enforcement's Misused Verses.

Finally, many in our profession wrongly believe that because God has ordained us as His "ministers for good and a terror against evil," we are somehow granted a "get out of hell" card and a "free pass" into Heaven. WRONG! God is clear in His Word that spending eternity with Him comes ONLY from acknowledging and repenting of our sin and entering into a personal, life-saving/life-changing RELATIONSHIP (not "religion") with Him through His Son, Jesus Christ. Accordingly, if you have not yet made a decision for Christ, let me again urge you to do so now. Simply go to the left side of this website and scroll down to the links under HOW CAN I BE SAVED (True "Officer Safety") to learn how you can be obtain the gift of eternal life in Christ.

Please take a few minutes to review the following articles on this incredibly important concept and then prayerfully seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in applying it to your lives as Christian LEOs, military personnel and others in authority:

* God's word on the military

* Christians serving in Combat

* God, Government and Law Enforcement


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News, Prayer Requests & Announcements...


...are posted on here on our website (scroll down to next post) and updated regularly.

Please respond to God's COMMAND ("The Great Commission" -- not "The Great Suggestion") to share the "Good News" of the Gospel by passing on our newsletter emails and website info, inviting a colleague to church or a police Bible study in your area, taking them to lunch or -- as stated above -- to see a warrior-relevant film like Act of Valor. Since it's now out on video, we also strongly suggest passing along the Courageous DVD or other resource available via the Courageous website.

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That's it for this week -- time to hit the sack for a few hours before again going "10-8" and getting back in the fight. Don't forget to exercise solid officer safety out there while at the same time being bold, radical followers of Christ our Captain. As always, please feel free to CONTACT me if I can be of service.

Det. Sgt. & Chaplain M.C. Williams
Director, The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry
Vice President, Fellowship of Christiain Peace Officers - USA (www.FCPO.org)

Courageous Opening Weekend and the Gospel of Christ

Just got off the air with Travis Yates (Ten Four Ministries) and Kyle Thompson on Travis' Centurion Radio program talking about Courageous and our opening weekend events. Travis and I shared our hearts about how lives will be changed through this powerful, must-see film.

Was live but if you missed it, you can listen again at your leisure -- see below (scroll down to #29 -- Courageous episode)!

Listen to internet radio with TenXFour Ministries on Blog Talk Radio

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Courageous: Centurion LE Ministry Newsletter

Fellow Servant-Leaders (if you’re not, you should be):

This week’s newsletter is long in coming but rich by God’s grace in His word and wisdom. Right off (if you’re in the Denver area), don’t forget that there is NO MEETING tonight because we are rather meeting tomorrow (Friday) evening (9/30) in front of the Highlands Ranch AMC 24 Theater between 6-6:30 to fellowship and pray before the 7:15 showing of Courageous on its national/public opening night. If you RSVP’d as requested, I’ll have your tickets! If not, come anyway. See below for more…

Our next regular meeting is set for Thursday, October 6th. Recently retired (again) law enforcement legend Jim Wattles will be teaching a powerful message he’s entitled “Gambling with God” (Jim’s final LE position after retiring from Denver PD was as a State Criminal Investigator with the Colorado Gaming Division…). Pass the word and join us if you can (and I’ll send out a detailed RECAP next week for everyone else around the country/world).

Last week we had an outstanding, interactive study/discussion on the profession-relevant example of King Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26. Here's the RECAP for "Victory in Obedience, Defeat in Compromise” (please take the time to read it and prayerfully adapt it to your own studies and your lives in general):

Uzziah was one of Amaziah's sons, whom the people made King of Judah after his father's assassination (see 2 Kings 14:21, 2 Kings 15: Uzziah is also called Azariah – cir. 750 BC or so). The literal translation of Uzziah’s name is "The Lord is my Strength” and his early life illustrated that meaning. Early in Uzziah's career he was victorious over all enemies. He strengthened his kingdom and improved the economic status of his nation. In brief, Uzziah was
 an intelligent military tactician and brilliant inventor of weaponry;
 a superb leader, statesman and organizer;
 highly renowned as a PEACEKEEPER and keeper of God’s law – a cop.

King Uzziah should have been a resounding success story. Tragically his biography does not end on a note of success but is rather one of failure. Instead of being buried in the tombs of the honored Judean kings in Jerusalem, he was instead buried in a weed-streen field outside of the city. It is this ironic twist in Uzziah’s career that deserves our concentration. One would expect a marvelous epitaph to be chiseled into the grave marker of Uzziah. However, the eulogy is stated with four simple words, “He is a leper.”

Uzziah’s YOUTH: 2 Chron 26:1-5

(1) His early years were marked by the significant influences surrounding him. Regarding Uzziah's father, the author (probably Ezra) notes that Amaziah “did right in the sight of the Lord” (2 Chron 25:2). He was a father who was concerned with what God commanded and thus influential in guiding Uzziah to seek God’s will and plan for his life. An interesting illustration of this decision is found in 2 Chron 25:6-9. Amaziah had organized a military expedition against Edom for which he gathered a large army from Judah. However, he also also hired 100,000 Israeli mercenaries. God’s prophet confronted Amaziah about this fellowship and bluntly told him it was unacceptable to God (25:7). The King dismissed those whom God refused to recognize (this situation is a valuable lesson itself and deserves study).

(2) Amaziah’s influence upon his son was important. However, there is a somber footnote to Amaziah’s dedication to God – “yet not with a whole heart.” Even though Amaziah knew that God expected wholehearted devotion, he instead retained a portion for himself. This inconsistency revealed that Amaziah did not recognize God’s total sovereignty and it would later have a drastic impact upon his son Uzziah.

As we take to heart the biblical lessons of Courageous, how many fathers since Amaziah have also admitted the need to “do right in the sight of the Lord” BUT have not done so with their whole heart? Consequently their (our) children have been impacted for the worse! Historical tragedies are often repeated by those who refuse to learn (Deuteronomy 6:5). Fathers, have you allowed God’s sovereignty to control all of your life?

Uzziah’s Desire to SEEK GOD: 2 Chron 26:5

A key to Uzziah’s success was his desire to seek God. It seems that the influence for this is attributable to the prophet Zachariah who was able to explain God’s word (and will) to the king so that he would understand and obey – much like the need for Bible study, teaching and discipleship today. As long as Uzziah was obedient and followed God’s plan for his life, his leadership was successful and the nation of Judah prospered (hmm -- U.S.A.?).

Uzziah in COMPROMISE (rebellion, sin): 2 Chron 26:16-18

Like in our own country today, Judah’s (and Uzziah’s) decline began when the king allowed his father’s “heart problem” to interfere with his own devotion to God. In short, the King’s took his eyes off God and onto self. Uzziah’s prosperity and success blurred his godly vision -- Uzziah began to think he was personally responsible instead of God! The tragedy is stated in 26:15 – “until” is the point of apostasy: the King’s pride blinded him to the need of humility (v. 16) and of God in general.

What caused him to enter into the Temple and offer incense? (v. 16). We are not told and it is not necessary to know. What we do know is that the King knew he was doing wrong. The priests knew the King was doing wrong. The entire nation knew their King was doing wrong. Pride could not make a wrong action “right”! Because of Uzziah’s disobedience -- doing what he “felt” (feelings) was right instead of what God’s WORD says is right – all of his previous “good works” became null and void. In this case, Uzziah decided that he knew better than God how worship was to be conducted.

The core issue here is one of PRIDE (compromise)! In his book Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis writes, “It was through pride that the devil became the devil. Pride leads to every other vice: it is the complete anti-God state of mind… As long as you are proud you cannot know God. A proud man is always looking down on things and people…as long as you are looking down, you cannot see something that is above…”
Great successes, world renown, fantastic prosperity -- all were lost because Uzziah COMPROMISED (rebelled) and refused to follow God’s commands!

Uzziah as a LEPER: 2 Chron 26:19-23

Uzziah’s eulogy does not read of success, victory, heroism, etc. Rather, it is a short, “He is a leper.” Note the word “is” (not “was”). It is important to note that nowhere in scripture is there any evidence that Uzziah ever repented and sought God’s forgiveness and restoration (more pride).

Uzziah’s compromise -- and the consequences of same – are powerful reminders of our essential need for THE (only) Savior and that we are ALL “lepers” who are thus -- like lepers -- wholly separated from God without the redeeming power of Christ in our lives. The message of this passage is also a reminder that real, lasting victory comes only when we refuse to compromise (we need the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish this) and are fully surrendered and obedient to God as revealed to us in His inerrant word.

On this subject Alistair Begg wrote, “Hidden, unfelt, unconfessed iniquity is the true leprosy, but when sin is seen and felt it has received its death blow, and the Lord looks with eyes of mercy upon the soul afflicted with it. Nothing is more deadly than self-righteousness or more hopeful than contrition. We must confess that we are nothing else but sin, for no confession short of this will be the whole truth. And if the Holy Spirit is at work within us, convincing us of sin, there will be no difficulty in making such an acknowledgment-it will spring spontaneously from our lips.”

Consider Joshua 1:7-8 which tells us to Be strong and very courageous. 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. 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.

Proverbs 16:5 likewise instructs, Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD.

As Christians and warriors (cops, military, leaders…), we must always watch ourselves during times of either earthly or spiritual accomplishments. The tendency is usually to build ourselves up in our own strength instead of remembering that without God we are nothing, and it is He who gives us our gifts and our strength. Whenever we puff ourselves up because of earthly accomplishments, a spiritual fall is sure to follow.
Uzziah failed to finish well. Like many of us in law enforcement, we start off well but then allow ourselves to take our eyes off our true Captain. Uzziah compromised – and he (like us) paid a price. We are SO BLESSED to have a Savior – turn to Him today and resolve to keep our eyes on The Prize (Christ)!

In keeping with this theme and that of Courageous, I encourage you to listen to Pastor Sam Park’s outstanding teaching from Revelation 2: Elevating Tolerance over Holiness. Go to https://public.me.com/sampark777


NATIONAL NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

(1) I’m looking forward to meeting those who have the ability to join us for next week’s (October 7-9) Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) National Conference in Chicago. Go to www.FCPO.org and click on the conference info at the top for more.

(2) Former officer, trainer and missionary to law enforcement Randy Green of Mission Mobilization International (www.missionmobilization.org) sent me the following and I felt led to share it with you.

“It was like déjà vu. In 2004 I was in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic making contact with the police. One day as I was walking on the beach a pimp approached me and asked me if I wanted a prostitute. I said I had found something much more fulfilling and began to share the gospel with him. He stopped me and asked if I would you be willing to share this with his prostitutes. I said I would be glad to and he took me to a table by the beach that had a thatched roof. Six prostitutes sat down and I began to share the gospel. Other prostitutes came by mocking them but at the end all six prostitutes and their pimp prayed to receive Christ.
Now seven years later I was on the same beach with our team who had come to minister to the police from August 27th to September 3rd. We had a free afternoon and as I sat under a shaded area God sent us person after person who we were able to lead to the Lord. The last person was Margarita a prostitute that came by looking for business. I asked her to sit down and I began sharing the gospel with her. She cried as God’s grace and love reached out to her and she asked Christ to save her and come into her life. We led 14 people to the Lord while at the beach that day. God gave us a group of 85 police officers to work with. Most of them were believers but we saw 18 respond to the gospel. It was a blessing to see the formation of the first fellowship of Christian police officers in the country. Colonel Suero had heard a broadcast I did with Focus on the Family Spanish program and had invited us to come to help their police.

We had the opportunity to lead about 35 people to Christ whom God put in our path. These were hotel & office workers, taxi drivers and an outdoor evangelistic meeting. We also did a radio program and shared the gospel with the listeners.

We will be doing an outreach to the police in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico from October 15-22. Please be in prayer for our team and the officers who will hear the gospel.

Thank you again for your prayers and financial support.”

(3) Courageous opens this weekend (!!) and events are being sponsored all over the country (including our own here in the Denver area). Go to www.CourageoustheMovie.com to see where this “must-see,” potentially life-changing film is showing – then attend during the all-important opening weekend. Better yet, invite (and pay for) a friend or colleague to join you. To echo the lead character, “Where are you, men of courage?”

TRAINING CORNER:

Bill Hubbard (Director of the my old unit in NM) sent me the following Mental Toughness Profile “exam” from our friend Lt. Col. Dave Grossman’s website (www.warriorsciencegroup.com).
Bill sent it to each of his agents and we ask that you take less than 10 minutes to take it. Results are automatically scored and will rate you five different areas (areas that we all need to address). Go to: http://oripomerantz.com/toughness.html. Bill writes, “You don’t need to share the results with anyone, but I hope you WILL use this tool not only to help you identify areas in which you need improvement, but will also motivate you to DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.”

Amen to that!

Be sure to check this website frequently for the latest updates, announcements, prayer requests (updated yesterday) and more. Keep your powder dry as you walk in love and obedience to our one true Commander-in-Chief.

Cops & Compromise

Fellow Servant-Warriors:

We’re ready to rock tonight (Thursday, 9/22) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton starting at 1900 hours where I will be teaching a most profession-relevant message that I’ve entitled Cops & Compromise. I’ll of course have a detailed recap in next week’s newsletter for everyone else around the country so stay tuned.

Speaking of recaps, we had a great turnout at Calvary Chapel Aurora last week for a special 9-11 remembrance service that included a time of sharing and reflection on how that fateful day ten years ago impacted us all. Here’s the RECAP that you can use/adapt for your own study.

The One Word Question and the One Hope Answer: Putting 9-11 into Biblical Perspective

Chaplain Dave Purdle of Ministry 9-1-1 in Michigan wrote a great message on this subject that I adapted (with Dave’s permission of course) for our study. Our text came primarily from Matthew 27:38-46 and Psalm 22. In brief, the “one word question” is WHY, and the “one hope answer” is GOD.

Why did God “allow” the WTC towers, a huge chunk out of the Pentagon and Flight 93 to come crashing down in flames? Why did God “allow” Katrina to inflict so much death and destruction? Why the age-old question and perhaps the “one word answer” is SIN. As our Lord was dying in our place (yours and mine) on the cross, He too cried out “Why?!” "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? That is to say, My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46). We also need to remember and embrace the fact that God's ways are not our ways (Isaiah 5:6-11).

In his commentary, Matthew Henry made the following statement about Matthew 27:46 -- “The words are from Psalm 22:2 (and following)…The Lord Jesus was, in His suffering, for a time forsaken by His Father. Not that the union between the divine and human nature was weakened or shocked, nor as if there were any abatement (decrease) of His Father’s love to Him, or His to His Father…but His Father delivered Him into the hands of His enemies. He let loose the powers of darkness against Him, and suffered them to do their worst…Christ was made SIN for us, a CURSE for us. Christ being forsaken by His Father was the most grievous of His sufferings. He did not say, ‘Why am I scourged? Why spit upon? Why nailed to the cross?’…But when His Father stood at a distance, Jesus cried out, “Why hast thou forsaken me?”

Following Hurricane Katrina, a pastor addressed his congregation with this statement: “The Bible does not give us the answer about why things happen, but it does say God is THE answer. God is not the explanation, rather God is THE answer.”

Yes, THE answer is God and God alone via a right relationship with Him in Christ!

When you are faced with catastrophic, life-changing events and find yourself asking “Why?” – remember, the one word answer…the only answer…is “God.” Now this is what the LORD says -- the One who created you, Jacob, and the One who formed you, Israel -- Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 43:1-2; 41:10)

Are you still asking WHY? Know and embrace THE ANSWER – God – through a life-changing/life-saving relationship with His Son! How? Go to www.fcpo.org/christian.html and take the “Good Person Test.” Embrace THE ANSWER today!

Our friends at GotQuestions.org also have a very helpful article on the subject of "Why?" -- see www.gotquestions.org/God-allow-evil.html

Finally on this subject, Dr. Michael Yousef presents an outstanding 4 minute message that has great meaning for us as we remember and honor the memory of 9-11. Please take a few minutes to watch/listen and be on your knees for this nation.

The Only Hope for America: www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=1429084

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NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

(1) Courageous (www.courageousthemovie.com) opens September 30th! We've been promoting this Holy Spirit-inspired film now for nearly two years and I can't encourage you enough to make it a point to see it (and support it in theaters).

(2) The latest prayer requests, announcements, meeting schedules and so much more are posted and updated regularly here on our website (see next post).

(3) The 2011 FCPO National Conference is just around the corner and it is not too late to plan on joining us. Go to www.FCPO.org and click on the link at the top of our home page! We have an outstanding line-up (Get it? “Line-up.” Sorry, can’t help it:) and an opportunity for incredible Christian warrior fellowship. Hope to see you there!


TRAINING Corner (Super reminder):

www.policemag.com/Blog/Recruit/Story/2011/09/Never-Settle-for-Just-Good-Enough.aspx

Denver-area News:

(1) The latest/updated meeting schedules are posted on the upper-left side of our website – check back frequently.

(2) Courageous! We are planning other events here in the Denver area but wanted to bring the following to your attention from Calvary Chapel Aurora:

“Courageous” FAMILY MINISTRY MOVIE NIGHT - SEPTEMBER 30 AT 7 PM: Don’t miss out! Get your (limited) $4 discounted tickets at the Ministry Center now and join us on September 30th at the AMC Theater at Arapahoe Crossing. More information: 720-373-5389.

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That’s it for this week. Stay safe, stay vigilant and stay the course (and finish strong in the power of God)!

Cops, 9-11 & God: TCLEM Newsletter

Fellow Sheepdogs and Supporters:

The 10th anniversary of 9-11 (what we now call Patriots Day) is past and our once-monthly foray to Calvary Chapel Aurora is once again upon us tonight. I’ll be teaching a short but thoroughly profession-relevant 9-11 Bible study along with an opportunity for you to share your own 9-11 “where were you” stories. We’ll also be sharing some ideas about both the direction of this ministry and the biblical essentials foundation) on which it is built. If you’re in the Denver area, please consider joining us at 7:00 PM in Room 138 (downstairs/café entrance – follow our signs). Directions to Calvary Aurora can be found at www.calvaryaurora.org.

As always, I’ll post a detailed recap for everyone else around the country/world that you can adapt and use for your own devotions and Bible studies. Stay tuned!
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MESSAGE RECAP: Cops and Depression – a Biblical Approach


That a great many peace officers and military combat personnel suffer from depression should not come as any big surprise. The sad fact is that depression is a leading contributor to police suicide and a host of other maladies.

I want to start by saying that while I both practice and encourage biblical (nouthetic -- www.compassionatecounselors.com/Statement.aspx) counseling and believe that God’s inerrant word supplies a real and viable solution to depression, I am not taking a position that the secular approach has no value. Rather, my position – and that of this ministry – is that God has THE answer if you will but seek it with your whole mind and heart. Moreover, I am not in any way saying that medicine (psychiatry as opposed to secular psychology) has no value. On the contrary, some (but not all) types of depression may stem from very real medical conditions that call for medical intervention. That aside, it is important to point out the very basis of secular psychology points to self while the biblical approach points us to Christ (No small difference this!). Where God is calling the Christian to turn is therefore clear.

The overall context of scripture presents numerous examples of depression and God’s solution for same. Moreover, it is vital that we point out that a great deal of depression (though not all) is a consequence of SIN and God most certainly has the solution for that. Beyond that, the following are thought to play a significant role in depression:

(1) Alcohol abuse (ETOH is a depressant – duh!).
(2) Drug abuse.
(3) Certain medical conditions including but not limited to thyroid issues, cancer, chronic pain, etc.
(4) Certain medication side-effects (including side-effects of some anti-depressants).
(5) Sleep (lack of, disorders).
(6) Stressful albeit common life events such as school problems, divorce (sin), death and/or illness of a loved one, childhood abuse/neglect, job issues/loss, financial issues (some of which may be sin-based), and the social isolation that is common in the law enforcement profession.

What does the Bible say about depression? For starters:

-- Proverbs 13:12

-- Proverbs 18:14

-- Job 7:6, 11


God’s word is also clear that Satan will most assuredly attempt to take advantage of our weaknesses. How do we combat his attacks? Ephesians 6:11-12, 2 Corinthians 2:7-11 and 1 Peter 5:6-9 provide part of the defense and solution. The Bible further reveals that David was no stranger to depression (Psalm 42 and 43) and his son Solomon writes in Proverbs 18:14 that A man’s spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?

The Bible presents a plethora of examples of those who suffered from depression. Here are but two:

(1) Jeremiah – the “Weeping Prophet” (read Lamentations 3)

-- Jeremiah's mental state: Lamentations 3:14-20


-- God’s solution: Lamentations 3:21-26, 37-40 present the key -- God is in control and our hope is in Him and Him alone.

(2) Elijah: Discouragement (aka depression -- read 1 Kings 19)

-- Contrast Elijah’s discouragement (depression) in 1 Kings 19:4 with 2 Kings 2:9! It serves to remind us that when our focus is on ourselves (secular psychology) we can open the door for the enemy to come in with discouragement/depression. While we can identify with 1 Kings 19:4, God is calling us to to live in 2 Kings 2:9!

-- Discouragement/depression will affect our self-image (Proverbs 23:7). When our hearts and minds are focused on Jesus and not on ourselves, we will catch a glimpse of who we are in Christ – mighty men and women of God! Elijah was discouraged to the point of wanting to die which is just where Satan wanted him to be (and us with him). Turn your focus to faith of God and move from where you are to where He has called you to be.

-- Discouragement can tempt us to fear and run from our responsibilities:

“And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said unto him, ‘What doest thou here, Elijah?’” (1 Kings 19:9 KJV). God is essentially saying, “Dude, what you are doing cowering here in fear when I am your salvation and hope?! Get out of there!”

Where should we turn when depressed/discouraged? God first always, then...

-- Each other (fellowship – “back up”): Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Proverbs 27:10 in the NLT says in part “Never abandon a friend…”

Can God relate to our depression? You bet!

-- Hebrews 4:15-16; 12:2-3

-- Isaiah 53:3-4

-- Matthew 26:38-44 and Luke 22:41-44


What about depression caused by our past mistakes and sin? God promises to intervene if we would but repent and place our whole faith/trust in Him!

-- Psalm 32:1-5; Psalm 51:1-3, 7-10

-- Isaiah 41:10

Finally, what does God want your mind-set to be when you are in a difficult trial and in depression due to same?

-- James 1:2-4

-- 1 Corinthians 10:13

-- Philippians 4:11-13
Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content... I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

-- 1 Peter 5:10

Christians also need to know that, when we are at our weakest and lowest, we are actually at our highest (2 Cor. 12:9–10)! We need the assurance that even in the midst of depression, our dear Lord is drawn to us in our pain (Isa. 57:15; 66:1–2; Ps. 34:17–18), is suffering along with us (Heb. 4:15; Isa. 63:7–11), and is working even our defeats and failures towards a blessed and eternal conclusion (Rom. 8:28; Phil. 1:6; John 6:37–40)!

Lastly, the essential here is that God’s solution to depression can only be had by repenting of our sins, seeking His forgiveness, and entering into a life-saving/life-changing personal relationship with God in Christ. Is that you? Have you given your life to Him? If not, do so now – tomorrow may be too late. Click on the Are you a True Christian links on the upper left side!

I also have links to Biblical Counseling (not “Christian counseling” which so often wrongly attempts to mix the secular with the spiritual) resources here on our website. Please take the time to consider God’s solution over “man’s.”

** If you want a copy of my complete study outline/notes, shoot me an email here or at fullarmor911@yahoo.com or thecenturionministry@yahoo.com.
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Courageous Update!

GMC TV will air an hour-long special -- “Behind the Scenes of COURAGEOUS” – on Friday, Sept. 23 at 8 p.m. eastern. Check it out! Also please plan on heading to the theaters on or soon after the opening date of September 30th! Every man needs to see this film – and that means we need your help to keep it running!

See also: Officer speaking about Courageous -- www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXfQi1ipDw0&feature=email


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Chattannooga PD Ofc. Jonathan Parker of Covered Law Enforcement has asked that we share his wife’s powerful testimony that was aired on CBN (no, I’m not endorsing CBN) this past Tuesday. Jonathan writes, “We welcome comments and prayer requests, and pray that God will continue to use this for His glory.”

www.cbn.com/media/player/index.aspx?s=/mp4/AS76v2_WS

For more see www.CoveredLawEnforcement.org and www.facebook.com/CoveredLawEnforcement

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TRAINING -- Lt. Col. Dave Grossman!

Tulsa PD Captain Travis Yates and Ten-Four Ministries have partnered with our friend Lt. Col. Dave Grossman for a very unique faith-based presentation of his popular Bulletproof Mind Seminar in Tulsa, Oklahoma this coming October 14th. Go to www.warriormissions.org for more and to find out how you can bring this dynamic presentation to your area of the country or world.

Speaking of Ten-Four Ministries, Travis has recently re-designed his outstanding website – please take the time to check it out at www.tenfourministries.org. That site also has a link to the following from one of Travis’s recent teachings that I can’t recommend enough:

www.sermonaudio.com/playpopup.asp?SID=626111529407.

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That’s it! Be safe out there, place your faith and hope in Christ, and don’t forget to check our website and Facebook pages (listed here -- scroll down left side) for the latest and greatest!

Being a "Rich" Cop: TCLEM Newsletter

Fellow Servant-Warriors:

We had a great turnout for our tactical, profession-relevant Bible study in Aurora last week. One of our new Aurora regulars had the courage to keep “bugging” an unsaved fellow officer who showed up and had the courage to admit he does not know Christ as Savior and Lord. We are working on that…please keep this warrior in prayer! Our study topic – Slaying Your Giants – was right on target for all of us and I’ve laid-out the RECAP below. I encourage you to adapt it to your own personal or group studies.

This week’s study asks the question, “Are you a Rich Cop?” and is adapted from the upcoming film Courageous. We’re meeting at 1900 hours at Calvary South Denver in Littleton and of course I’ll have a yet another detailed recap for everyone else serving all over the US and world-wide. Stay tuned!

With that, please take the time to check out the latest PRAYER REQUESTS, announcements, meeting schedules and more right here on our website. In addition, I encourage you to avail yourself of the following:


TRAINING CORNER:

(1) Running TO the Battle! Have you been trained to run away or TO the sound of gunfire? Go to www.policemag.com/Channel/Patrol/Articles/2011/08/Are-We-Teaching-Cops-To-Run.aspx?ref=OnTarget-Tuesday-20110823&utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Enewsletter

(2) Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) National Conference! October 7-9 in Chicago. Outstanding speakers and Christian servant-warrior fellowship (Bring your wives!). Go to www.FCPO.org and click on the Summer 2011 Newsletter link at the top for details. Hope to see you there!

(3) Denver-area TRAINING:

(a) Colorado State Investigators Association (CSIA) Conference. October 5-6 in Highlands Ranch. Go to www.CSIAinc.org and scroll down to the conference info and registration links.

(b) Colorado Police Protective Association (CPPA) Conference. CPPA Conference: Sept. 16-17 in Lone Tree. Go to www.cppa.net and click on the conference link at the top.


DENVER-AREA NEWS:

(1) COURAGEOUS Update: KRKS 94.7 FM is giving away FREE TICKETS for a September 20th showing (10 days before official release)! Go to www.947krks.com/ and click on the link in the upper left corner.

(2) Rock the Range (www.billygraham.org/specialsections/rocktherange/RockTheRange.asp) is seeking uniformed, sworn officers to volunteer some time to provide security at this special event this weekend. Shoot me an email if you’re interested and I’ll put you in touch with the right people.

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Message RECAP: “Slaying Your Giants”

Essentially the sequel to the study I did previously on how God used David to slay Isreal’s evil giant (Goliath – I Samuel 17:31-58), II Samuel 21:15-22 reveals a group of David’s warriors (cops/soldiers) who go on to take out Goliath’s kids – equally imposing giants – by the same power with which David defeated their father. Goliath and his children are metaphors for the giants (evil, trials, etc.) we all face in our lives today on a daily basis and the fact that it was God who actually won the victories. It is safe to say that it was ONLY through God’s power that these giants were slain and it is ONLY through that same power that you can overcome your own giants today. God’s inerrant word – the Bible – is replete with the truth that He takes care of His own (those of us who have turned to Him as Lord and Savior) so long as we rely on Him and Him alone. By the same token, defeat and disaster was (is) always the result of folks who are in sin or insist on doing things by their own "power" without His blessing and support.

Rest assured, we are at war against the powers of darkness from a law enforcement and military standpoint but also spiritually as well. In addition, we face our own self-imposed giants of sin along with the giants God sends to test us, grow us and force us to look to Him for THE winning battle plan. That said, the devil and his legions want nothing more than to see those of us standing “in the breach” be defeated on a personal level.

(1) 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 reads, For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in GOD, for pulling down strongholds...

(2) 1 Pet. 5:8 tells us, Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Just like the earthly offensive and defensive weapons we carry as cops, our Father has given us powerful weapons to combat evil in this world. But, like my own physical training and tactical study, we also need to be in training for spiritual warfare. How? Through Bible study, prayer, fellowship (iron sharpens iron), etc.

Psalm 144:1 reads, Praise be the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.

Folks, know that we will never experience God in powerful ways by acquiring biblical knowledge alone. It is only when that knowledge is used in the heat of battle that you will know what you’ve learned in the Word. Otherwise, it remains only an exercise -- training that yields little fruit. We can train all we want but it is when we put that training into practice – with the added pressure of “real deal” combat – that we see how truly prepared we are. David became a great warrior and a LEADER of a nation at an early age. His training ground was his job protecting the sheep from wild beasts. That training ground prepared him for his combat with Goliath – and it served him well.

I remain convinced that God's true warriors long for the sting of battle but with the proviso that – for the Christian -- God fights the battle for us and calls us to STAND.

Bottom line is that God has given us the weapons and strength (Philippians 4:13) to slay the giants we face daily so long as we are walking in obedience and in accordance with His will.

Now note that I’m not talking about a false “name it and claim it” theology or the equally false “binding Satan” garbage (we don’t have that power but God does) but rather the understanding that if we know Christ as Savior and Lord, we need not fear an earthly death because have the assurance of our salvation. Save for rapture, we will ALL die and we can be assured that trials will come our way (see www.openbible.info/topics/trials_and_tribulations) but our Captain will go before us to help us overcome ANY giant that comes our way. Yes, we may (will) become ill, suffer injuries, face financial problems, and so much more. However, the true believer can trust that our loving and all-powerful Lord will always be with us and never forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6, Romans 8:31-39, II Corinthians 4:7-11, Deuteronomy 31:6…)! In short, God is calling us to live a victorious, giant-slaying life despite the hardships we WILL face.

Examples of GIANTS:

(1) The giant of FEAR (doubt, insecurity, delusion, etc.) -- Numbers 13:33 and 14:11; Hebrews 3:12-19

(2) The giant of DIFFICULTY (financial issues, illness, family/marital problems, etc.) -- Genesis 18:14

(3) The giant of SIN (alcohol, drugs, pornography, anger, adultery/sexual sin, making a "god" of work/sports/hobbies, failure to lead/serve our wives and kids, etc.).


Slaying your Giants:

(1) The promises of God are true – Numbers 13:27, 14:8.

(2) Look at your giants from God’s perspective – Numbers 13:30, 14:9 (what an awesome example is Caleb).

(3) Approach your giants with boldness with Christ as our Captain – Numbers 14:9, I Samuel 17:45.

(4) Lean/depend on the Holy Spirit! Romans 8 and Acts 1:8. The Holy Spirit brings the power of God into our lives and says, “You are a child of God -- be a champion for Christ!”


Finally, it is ESSENTIAL to understand that defeating our giants is solely dependent on being in a right relationship with God in Christ! Take note -- you cannot defeat your giants or be victorious in battle without first knowing/walking with the Captain who fights the battle for us. You can’t have any true success at walking in obedience without the One who gives you the power – the Holy Spirit. You can’t have the Holy Spirit unless you know the One who sent Him: Jesus Christ!

Is that you? Have you entered into a life-changing/life-saving RELATIONSHIP (not religion) with the risen Savior? If not, then let me urge you to say “yes” to Him today. Go to www.fcpo.org/christian.html and take the “Good Person Test.” Don’t wait – there are giants in the land and God is waiting for you to step out into the field and be used by Him to do the slaying!

I’ll close by once again directing you to this Steve Camp’s Run to the Battle YouTube video set to scenes from Braveheart: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL7cL_p5_84.

Run TO the battle! Get into the fight! Engage and slay your giants as you march forth with our true Commander in Chief, Jesus Christ! Do it NOW!

PTSD -- A Biblical Perspetive and Approach: TCLEM Newsletter

Brothers and Sisters of "The Sword":

Hope this week finds you staying the course as we lead (serve) and protect in accordance with our God-given call and commission as revealed in God’s inerrant word (Romans 13:1-4).

Right off, we had an outstanding study/fellowship in Aurora last week where I taught on “Cops & Marriage” (aka “Taking a Stand for Marriage”). Police wife and sister-in-ministry Kristi Neace provided an outstanding template that I adapted to our specific needs (I encourage you to do the same). Scroll down for the message RECAP and link to her website.

This week we’ll be switching gears as I tackle the issue of post-traumatic stress disorder -- PTSD -- in law enforcement and the military from a thoroughly biblical perspective. I will undoubtedly ruffle more than a few feathers inasmuch as God's approach to dealing with this issue is radically different than the one presented in secular psychology/psychiatry. Please join us if you’re in the Denver area (Thursday, July 28, 7:00 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton – www.CalvaryCSD.org for directions). For everyone else I’ll present a detailed recap with resources in next week’s newsletter that you can adapt for your own use (including your law enforcement Bible studies/FCPO chapters in your area of the country/world).

Don’t forget to check this website frequently for the latest prayer requests, Denver-area meeting schedules, info on other studies around the country (see especially our Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers chapters listed on our website – www.fcpo.org), and a plethora of outstanding resources.

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2011 Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers National Conference!

Speaking of the FCPO, our 2011 FCPO National Conference is rapidly approaching (October 7-9 in Chicago, IL). We’ll again have an outstanding group of speakers including but not limited to the aforementioned Kristi Neace (Bring your wives!!) and Marine/police officer and chaplain Col. Ray Fairman (www.rayfairman.com). The complete program will be available soon but prayerfully consider joining us in the Windy City this October!

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Message RECAP: Standing Courageous: As Officers, as Spouses


Readers of our website and newsletter know how strongly I am recommending the upcoming film Courageous (coming to a theater near you on September 30th). Without giving everything away, we have a serious problem in our profession when it comes to marriage. With the stresses of the job on both officers and family along with rampant adultery (SIN), alcoholism (SIN) and a host of other issues, we are seeing a divorce (SIN) rate of up to 85 percent.

The famous 20th Century preacher Dr. Peter Marshall was quoted as saying, “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” Country singer Aaron Tippin wrote it into what became one of my favorite country songs (www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Hja0XND8Ms).

What does it mean to stand? We often take our everyday words at less than face value, so I looked up the meaning in the dictionary. According to Webster’s, stand means: “to be, become, or remain upright, rigid or still; to have or take a position; to endure, bear, tolerate; withstand, to undergo.”

Kristi points out that as officers and spouses – men and women, we are to stand:

(1) For our marriages.
(2) For what is right in our departments, our communities, our churches, and our nation.
(3) In the gap when our partners are away as parent, caretaker, administrator, etc.
(4) In our homes as examples to our children/grandchildren.
(5) In awe of God.

Kristi writes, “To stand is a choice. To stand is a calling.” Amen to that! The following passages form a biblical foundation for Kristi’s work:

Isaiah 7:9 “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.”

Ephesians 6:10-18 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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. 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. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”

Proverbs 31:10-12 “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.”

1 Corinthians 15:58 “Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

Ecclesiastes 5:7 “Therefore stand in awe of God.”
AND
Habakkuk 3:2 “LORD, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, O Lord.”

In closing, Kristi writes, “Let me encourage you to stand courageous in this life so that even battered or bruised, our lives will shine forth as a banner of God’s goodness to all those who see us."

I strongly encourage you to go to www.kristineace.com and digest her teaching on these five powerful points. Folks, as Christian officers and spouses we must – MUST – take a stand for our marriages and families. Have you taken your stand? If not, why not? It’s time. As we exclaim on a felony stop – DO IT NOW!


Stay safe out there, lead from the front, and STAND firm in Christ!

Will You Answer the Call?

Last week’s Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry “meeting” took place at a special screening of the new film Courageous and as such this week’s international newsletter will be just a little different. We’ve been promoting this film for nearly two years now and the general release is just around the corner (September 30th) and, having already seen it twice, I remain more convinced than ever that every cop, every true warrior, every man, every father, and every woman who loves and supports us needs to attend. The message is powerful and the Holy Spirit is all over it.

The great news for those of us in law enforcement is that we can see Courageous for FREE in those communities that are hosting special screenings. As LEOs we are community leaders and as Christian officers we are in fact ministry leaders. Please go to www.courageousthemovie.com/screenings/ and find out when this MUST SEE, life-changing film is coming to your area. Attending with your wives and fellowship groups makes for a profoundly special evening.

Through this very powerful instrument, God is CALLING every one of us to be more than just cops. Will YOU answer the call? With God’s help, I WILL! What say you? See www.courageousthemovie.com/videos-trailer for more.

Secondly, I want to share with you a very special video message from my friend and colleague Travis Yates of Tulsa PD and Ten-Four Ministries. Do you know that you can have the assurance of salvation – that you can KNOW where you will spend eternity? Please take a few minutes to watch, listen and apply: http://copsforchrist.com/?p=70

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NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:


(1) The latest PRAYER REQUESTS, updated MEETING SCHEDULES and more are posted here on our website. Please take the time to join us in praying for these urgent needs. Our website also highlights our Facebook pages and a plethora of resources intended to inform, train, bolster our walks with Christ, and so much more.

(2) Speaking of meetings, Englewood PD Officer Jason Pearson will be sharing with us tonight (Thursday, June 23rd) about his recent “mission” trip to minister to/assist the storm ravaged police agencies in the deep South. Jason has a powerful testimony to share – please join us (1900 hours, Calvary South Denver in Littleton).

(3) Georgia Officer Brian Cain (www.code4ministries.com) has begun the process of starting a church in his community. Please keep Brian in prayer and consider donating to this worthy cause.

(4) Speaking of support, our own Colorado State Trooper Scott Hinshaw is currently riding to raise funds for wounded officers and the families of those who gave all. Scotty will be our very special guest speaker on July 14th! Go to http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/28264278/detail.html for details on Scott’s ride and how you can support our own.


That’s it for this week: short and sweet but packed full of solid information – so PASS IT ON! Hope to see you tonight if you’re in the Denver area!

Real Honor, True Courage

Fellow Servant-Warriors:

We had a great profession-relevant Bible study and fellowship last week on a topic I entitled “Cops United in Combat.” Combat? As peace officers, we engage evil and sin on a daily basis – and that engagement routinely results in physical combat. As Christian officers (“Christian” meaning having repented of our sin and asking Christ to be both Savior and Lord via a life-saving, life-changing, personal relationship with Him – being spiritually born again as per John 3:1-7), we are also engaged in daily spiritual combat as well. As servant-warriors we strap on our body armor and carry an array of offensive and defensive weaponry. Likewise, our true Captain has provided us with both powerful defensive armor and offensive weaponry to use against a very real spiritual enemy in Satan, his demonic forces, and sin in general:

ARMOR: Ephesians 6:10-17
WEAPONS: Ephesians 6:17-18; 2 Corinthians 6:7 and 2 Corinthians 10:4,5

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:4,5)

The key for this study is the weapon of prayer (Ephesians 6:18) based on two points:

(1) The Power of the MANY:
Then the men of Judah said to the Simeonites their brothers, 'Come up with us into the territory allotted to us, to fight against the Canaanites. We in turn will go with you into yours (Judges 1:3).

Jesus said, May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me (John 17:23). God calls each of us individually and corporately to represent Christ to the world and praying in UNITY is a very powerful strategy. When unity takes place among leadership in the Body of Christ, Jesus responds by impacting our communities, our agencies, our families, our marriages, our children and our colleagues in ways we would otherwise have never thought possible.

(2) The Power of the ONE:
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man accomplishes much (James 5:16).

How are we made righteous? Only – ONLY – through a right relationship with God in Christ! Our individual prayer – especially when we are praying God’s word (wielding our offensive weaponry), is a POWERFUL weapon indeed.

To better illustrate where we’re going with this, I’ve been given permission by author Grant Wolf to share the June 2nd entry from Stories of Faith and Courage from Cops on the Street written by my friend and fellow FCPO national board member Dep. Mike Dye from Florida:


Prayer For Real!

Sheriff’s Detective Mike Dye*
*Author of The Peacekeeper's- A Bible study for Law Enforcement Officers
Volusia County FL Sheriff’s Department

There’s prayer, and then there’s prayer! This is about real prayer!

My career began as a deputy sheriff in Florida. For awhile, it took me to the west coast before God brought me back to Florida where I belong. While in patrol, I was assigned to the rough and tough neighborhood of Spring Hill. It was depressed and filled with druggies, alcohol and hopelessness. God had given me a fresh revelation on the power of prayer, and I decided to put it to use. I prayed up and down the streets of that neighborhood, and for specific buildings themselves. I even asked God to send a Bible-teaching pastor to that neighborhood.

One night a burglar alarm went off at a bar, and I answered the call. It was an ugly, concrete block building, painted black with barred windows. While I was there, God spoke to me and said, “Pray for this building." In obedience, I laid hands on that sin- filled building as I was pulling on doors and windows to check for entry, and asked God to convert it according to his purposes. A short time later and now on day shift, I passed by and saw a lady unloading paint and decorating supplies. When I spoke to her, she said her husband was a pastor, and God had sent them to Florida from New York to start a church. She told me the bar had gone out of business, and God had supplied the building! A few weeks later, I pulled up one day in my patrol car and she was crying. She told me that local thieves were stealing their supplies. I asked the men’s group of a large church if they could help, and they did! They took on the entire project, transforming that ugly, sinful bar into a clean house of hope and worship. It went from “blight to light.” Before long the bar across the street also went out of business, and God gave Pastor Brown the keys to that building at no cost!

Spring Hill is a changed community. It’s not perfect, and still has problems with drugs, thefts and all the other crimes of today’s society – but it is changed. Other faithful believers had been crying out to God for help, and he used me as a catalyst. Like I said, there’s “prayer,” and there’s “prayer!” Oh, that more of God’s people – especially police officers – would pray over their cities for change. If it can work in Spring Hill, it can work anywhere!

Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you…
pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you will too.Jeremiah 29:7

Chaplain Wolf writes, “In these hot summer months there is abundant opportunity for crime in your area to flourish. Would you be willing to put Mike’s principle of “praying for your city” to work for the specific area you serve – your entire community if you’d like – and praying over it daily for at least one month? While I’ve suggested July as a “test month,” is there anything to prevent you doing that right now?”

Here is what we are suggesting:
1. Read (and share) Mike’s story and prayerfully consider making prayer for your area/city a conscious effort before the start of your shifts.
2. Specifically target the worst streets, buildings, individuals, etc. in your area, asking God to restore His righteousness there.
3. Ask your fellow Christian officers to join you in this approach to fighting crime.
4. Use your social networks – Facebook, Twitter, blogs, websites, e-mail lists, etc. to encourage others.

Working together for one month – or even the entire summer – perhaps we can enlist God’s aid in “putting a bite on crime.”

That’s our call – and our combat! Let’s wield our weapons both together and individually and watch what God can do in your agencies, communities, families, colleagues and YOU!
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COURAGEOUS the Movie Event!

This Friday, June 17th, our FCPO-Denver chapter will be meeting in Parker (CO) with other ministry, church and community leaders (and a guest -- spouses encouraged to attend) for a special showing of the new film Courageous (see www.courageousthemovie.com). If you’re in the Denver area, please RSVP (click on the following link – tickets are FREE) and join us. If not, see www.courageousthemovie.com/screenings/ to get your FREE passes to the special screenings in your area of the country. Folks, the Holy Spirit is all over this movie and it is a potential GAME CHANGER for our profession and families.

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NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

(1) Friend, colleague and fellow law enforcement ministry leader Travis Yates has launched a great new website that I’ve linked to ours: http://copsforchrist.com/. Great stuff and highly recommended!

(2) Speaking of Travis, Englewood PD Officer Jason Pearson (who will be sharing with us at our June 23rd meeting) writes,

Ten Four Ministries, a Law Enforcement outreach and ministry organization based in Tulsa, OK and run by Tulsa P.D. Captain Travis Yates, is instituting an "Adopt-an-Agency" program to help rural U.S. law enforcement agencies meet equipment, supply and training needs. Many agencies, especially in the "Deep South", are operating without uniforms or modern technology such as adequate flashlights, tasers, body armor or even cars and other equipment made in this century. Many of these Officers, and their Chiefs, live below the National poverty line and many earn less than $20,000 a year.

We are very fortunate to have decent pay, good benefits and modern equipment, and my recent trip to Alabama to meet Officers from rural agencies after the recent tornadoes reinforced my realization that we are in a great position to help out our fellow officers and deputies. What we often discard, throw away or auction off could help another agency operate and function under safer and more adequate working conditions. We can't help them make better pay or get a retirement plan, but we can certainly help them perform their difficult jobs with a higher chance of getting home safe to their families.

If your agency is interested in helping, please contact me here at Englewood P.D. We already have several agencies in Texas and Mississippi we are screening for possible "adoption" and would love to get them help as soon as we can.

Sincerely,

Ofc. J. Pearson #0502
Englewood Police Department
3615 S. Elati St.
Englewood, CO 80110
303-762-2438
jpearson@englewoodgov.org

Well?

(3) Lots of new links, news, resources, the latest PRAYER REQUESTS, Denver-area MEETING SCHEDULES, etc. are posted and updated almost daily here on our website. Check back frequently!

Denver-Area Events:

(4) If you are not paying into a legal defense fund and/or a Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) member, I encourage you to consider joining our new FOP chapter here in Denver. We are meeting this Saturday, June 18th, at 1100 hours in Westminster – shoot me an email if interested in being a part of this strong organization.

(5) As mentioned above, Englewood PD Officer Jason Pearson just got back from being his God-inspired “mission” trip (aid, support) to police agencies in storm-ravaged Alabama and will be sharing with us at our June 23rd meeting at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Jason is on fire for Christ (Oorah!) and The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO-Denver has been used by God in a powerful way in Jason’s life. Please join us!

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I’ll close this week’s newsletter by sharing the a warrior’s “creed” from a recent www.PoliceOne.com article written by Jack E. Hoban and Bruce J. Gourlie (www.policeone.com/training/articles/3774287-The-ethical-warrior-Guiding-principles-and-Humphreys-Warrior-Creed/):

Wherever I walk, everyone is a little safer because I am there.

Amen! Be safe out there and -- if you’re in the Denver-area this Friday -- hope to see you in Parker for the Courageous event!

Cops United in Combat: TCLEM Newsletter

Fellow Servant-Warriors and Leaders:

Lots to cover in this week’s newsletter but please take the time to read it through and apply the biblical truth presented here to your own lives.

Right off, this week’s tactical, profession-relevant Bible study will be a follow-up to last week’s teaching on Why God Allows Evil? (see RECAP below). Specifically, I’ll share an in-depth study based on Dep. Mike Dye’s (author of The PeaceKeepers -- see http://www.christianlawenforcement.com/index.html) June 2nd devotional in Grant Wolf's Stories of Faith and Courage from Cops on the Street. The study presents a viable avenue for us as Christians and law enforcement officers to combat evil and make a real difference in our communities through the power of prayer. I’ve entitled it Cops United in Combat and I’ll have a full recap for you in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!

Please take the time to check out the latest PRAYER REQUESTS, local MEETING SCHEDULES, news, announcements and more here on this ever-changing website.
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Chief needs assistance for upcoming law enforcement mission trip to Moldova:

Arkansas City (KS) Chief Sean Wallace writes,
On June 25th I will be traveling to the Republic of Moldova with seven other police officers to provide training, supplies, and to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with fellow officers there. The trip is a mission of the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers, USA. Please consider supporting me and the team in your prayers. I also need your financial support as I need to raise approximately $3,500.00 for the airfare, food and lodging, and freight to take supplies to their police department. If you can donate even a small amount it would be greatly appreciated.

You can send your donation to First Baptist Church at 220 East Central Avenue, Arkansas City, KS 67005-2616. Make checks payable to First Baptist Church, Ark City. Note "Moldovan Mission" in the memo. All of your donations are tax deductable.

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MESSAGE RECAP: Why God Allows Evil and Tragedy?

Our friends at GotQuestions.org provide a great biblical answer at http://www.gotquestions.org/God-allow-evil.html. That answer goes hand-in-hand with this question: Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? The biblical answer can be found at http://www.gotquestions.org/bad-things-good-people.html.

Evangelist Billy Graham also offers an insightful response to these questions in his book Answers to Life's Problems:

We do not know all the reasons why God permits evil. We need to remember, however, that he is not the cause of evil in this world and we should therefore not blame Him for it. Remember that God did not create evil, as some believe. God created the world perfect. Man chose to defy God and go his own way, and it is man's fault that evil entered the world. Even so, God has provided the ultimate triumph of good over evil in Jesus Christ, who on the cross, defeated Satan and those who follow him. Christ is coming back and when He does, all evil will be ended forever and righteousness and justice will prevail.

Have you ever thought about what would happen if God suddenly eliminated all the evil in this world? Not one person would be left, because we are all guilty of sin.

So how do these questions apply to those of us serving in law enforcement? Folks, we are at war both in the world of law enforcement and the military but also spiritually. Alistair Begg provides part of the answer:

Are you fighting with the adversary today? Are Satan, the world, and the flesh all against you? Do not be discouraged nor dismayed. Fight on! For God Himself is with you. Jehovah Nissi is your banner, and Jehovah Rophi is the healer of your wounds. Do not fear, you will overcome, for who can defeat Omnipotence? Fight on, "looking to Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2) and although the conflict is long and tough, the victory will be sweet, and the promised reward will be glorious.

Quoting 1 Chronicles 5:22 (For many fell, because the war was of God), Alistair goes on to say,

Warrior, as you fight under the banner of the Lord Jesus, observe this verse with holy joy, for as it was in the days of old, so is it now: If the war is of God, the victory is sure. The armies of God could barely muster forty-five thousand fighting men, and yet in their war with the enemy, they captured "a hundred thousand men," "for they cried to God in the battle, and he granted their urgent plea because they trusted in him."

The Lord saves not by many, nor by few; it is ours to go in Jehovah's name even if we are only a handful of men, for the Lord of Hosts is with us as our Captain. They did not neglect their weapons, but neither did they place their trust in them; we must use all fitting means, but our confidence must rest in the Lord alone, for He is the sword and the shield of His people. The great reason for their extraordinary success lay in the fact that "the war was of God."

Beloved, in fighting with sin in us and around us, with error doctrinal or practical, with spiritual wickedness in high places or low places, with devils and the devil's allies, you are waging Jehovah's war, and unless He himself can be defeated, you do not need to fear defeat. Do not tremble before superior numbers; do not shrink from difficulties or impossibilities; do not flinch at wounds or death; strike with the two-edged sword of the Spirit, and the dead shall lie in heaps.

The battle is the Lord's, and He will deliver His enemies into our hands. With steadfast foot, strong hand, dauntless heart, and flaming zeal, rush to the conflict, and the hosts of evil will fly like chaff before the gale.

We are in a fight – a war -- against evil and as peace officers we are at the tip of God’s spear. Accordingly, we must NEVER forget that it is God who fights for us and that we MUST seek Him in all we do. He must be first in our lives and we must be obedient both professionally and personally if we are to be effective good soldiers of Christ (2 Timothy 2:3).

Romans 12:9-21 offers further insight into these questions that have great application to our service as LEOs:

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 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. On the contrary, “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.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

A huge part of our call as God’s peacekeepers is to CONFRONT EVIL and we can only be truly effective at that if we are in fact His first (to wit, being truly saved via a life-saving, life-changing personal relationship with Jesus Christ). 2 Samuel 12 presents a picture of this when the prophet Nathan is sent by God to confront David for his sins of murder and adultery (The LORD sent Nathan to David). When God judges a situation He often uses His servants (us) as vessels for communicating to the guilty party. Law enforcement is a profession through which God wants to use you to be His instrument to bring righteousness to a situation.

The bottom line is that there is evil in the world because of our sin – and not just that of the suspects we deal with daily but also in our own lives as well. The solution? There is truly only one viable answer – Jesus Christ!

I’d like to conclude this study by urging you to watch two short videos by my friend and colleague Travis Yates of Tulsa PD and Ten-Four Ministries:

(1) http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/06/wall-why-does-god-permit-tragedy.html (filmed at our Wall in Washington, DC during Police Week).

And

(2) http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/05/mans-greatest-problem.html

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Courageous (the movie)!

The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry and our Denver-area chapter (FCPO-Denver, Chapter 217) will be attending and participating (Action Squad) in a special screening of this outstanding new film by the makers of Fireproof and Facing the Giants. This is by far their best production to date and it has tremendous application for us both as LEOs and as fathers and husbands. Set for general release in September, those of us serving in ministry (all who are part of this outreach) have a unique opportunity to see it early on Friday, June 17th in Parker, CO. I can send you the link to RSVP and obtain free tickets for you and a guest if you’re in the area and wish to join us. Otherwise, I encourage you to go to www.courageousthemovie.com and check out the plethora of resources. Special showings such as this one are happening nationwide and I encourage you to jump in!

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That’s the roll call briefing for this week. Let’s stay the course, stay in the fight, and finish strong in Christ!

So What Kind of Cop are You?

Dear Fellow Servant-Warriors:

I previously announced that retired DPD Officer Mark Roggeman would be giving one of his patented cult presentations at this week’s Denver meeting. Unfortunately, Mark is still in North Carolina caring for his ailing father (see the updated September 17th post here on our website). As such, I will be teaching as usual.

Reference same, I can’t take full credit for this week’s study inasmuch as I’m adapting it from the message that Hamilton County (TN) Sheriff Jim Hammond delivered at First Baptist Church of Gulfport during the FCPO National Conference. Entitled ”Dumb, Dumber & One Smart Cop,” Jim’s profession-relevant message centered primarily on II Kings 1. For all those who live outside Metro Denver or can't make tonight's meeting, I'll post my usual detailed recap in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!


Website Updates!

I’ve added some great new links as well as some of the photos from our recent FCPO National Conference in Gulfport, MS. In addition, take the time to review the updated prayer requests (please join us in praying for these pressing needs) and local meeting schedule.


Courageous Update: A battle to fight…a cause to stand for!

One of this year's FCPO conference highlights was the update we received on the soon-to-be-released film Courageous -- produced by the same great folks who put out Fireproof (the #1 independent film of 2008) and Facing the Giants: Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, GA. The film, which centers on the lives of four police officers (S.O. deputies) and their families, is expected to be truly life-changing! FCPO is playing a role in this production and we’re asking that you start praying now for a wide distribution when it is released next year. Check out the latest via the Courageous website: http://www.courageousthemovie.com/index.php (the videos are a “must see”).


SUPPORT for The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry!

As most everyone is aware, I am not given to asking for support for this ministry (first time via this venue). That said, as our outreach expands, Diana and I are finding it more and more difficult to do it on our own. Inasmuch as our Lord directs us to ask, we do in fact welcome your financial and prayer support with the assurance that anything the Lord chooses to give us will be used biblically and in keeping with James 4:2-3. Donation information is posted on the bottom left corner of our website -- thanks in advance.

Christian Cops in the News!

(1) USAF TSgt. Dennis Kuritz at Los Angeles AFB in El Segundo, CA sent the following:

I watched an amazing interview last night on CBS 2 News in Los Angeles. They interviewed Sgt. Steven Gomez of the LAPD. He was one of the responding officers to the North Hollywood shootout in 1997 and is preparing to retire after 30-plus years with LAPD. Steven spoke about being a CHRISTIAN, how he was blessed everyday of his life, and that he is proud to be a member of the LAPD. Gomez allowed the media to film him in his patrol car with his Bible on the front seat, and he spoke of reading it daily and would read more if he arrived early to a meeting or event. I looked for a video of the interview on the stations website and found none. I will be digging into this more but I thought it was great to hear from a true “Sheepdog” about his walk through life with the LAPD.

On a side note, IF you see any of the footage of the shootout, he was the SWAT officer in shorts (he was running at the academy and his patrol vehicle was the furthest away so he decided “I just do this in shorts”) who took out the last shooter (Matasareanu) and was awarded the LAPD Medal of Valor (one of nineteen given for actions that day).

(2) Streamwood (IL) PD Sgt. “Dino” Heckermann sent the following:

Here is a great article on "Faith in Uniform". It has some powerful testimonies from cops from NY to LA. FCPO is mentioned in the article. http://www.charismamag.com/index.php/features2/481-christianity-on-the-job/9732-faith-in-uniform.

I've posted a link to this story here on our website.

That’s about it for this week. Please join us tonight if you’re in the area and, if not, stay tuned for my newsletter and website updates each and every week (don’t forget to pass ‘em on to your colleagues, family and friends). We also strongly encourage you to be part of you own local fellowship of Christian officers (see http://www.fcpo.org/ for a chapter in your area). If a fellowship is not close by, we’ll be glad to help you start one. Stay strong in Christ and watch each other's "six!"

Courageous the Movie