"The Bible doesn't specify a dress code, so why do elders try to impose a certain type of dress for members when we assemble for worship? Doesn't the Bible teach that God looks not on the outward man but on the heart?" Most of our younger generations of today are not aware that "casual dress" in the services of worship to God, grew out of the rebellious days of the "hippies" and "baby boomers" of the 1960's. Respect for, and submission to, authority was dealt a severe blow by the "independent" thinking of that era. Like most other things that challenged the "establishment," the initial shock soon wore off and that which once was "unthinkable" became acceptable.

The secular world still places great emphasis on dress. Business executives wear suits to work and usually require their younger aspirants to do the same. Quality of work is usually enhanced by neat and proper dress. The reputation of the company is represented to a great degree by the way employees dress. The reason: A respect for those representing a company generates a respect for the company represented. Contrary to what one may think, those who respect their person, their values and their employers command the respect of those who do not.

It is a source of genuine distress to see the lack of respect for God displayed by so many in our worship services. Preachers are no exception; in fact they should be leaders in trying to keep the congregations aware of the Divine nature of God. God should be exalted to the ultimate degree of respect, adoration, reverence and awe before whom his children should humble themselves. Slovenly dress, casual, unkempt foot-wear, and carelessness in presentation all profess that we have no awareness of the greatness of the God we profess to serve. Those who see God's representatives in such common and presumptuous attire cannot have respect for the God they represent. It is no wonder that it is difficult to try to convince lost souls of their need to revere God, when it is apparent that He is not revered by those claiming to represent Him!

It is not a dress code that needs to be enforced. It is a desperate effort to instill in the hearts of Christians the abject respect that God's children should have for their heavenly Father. Every example of the Old Testament, and every principle of the New Testament shows the need to glorify the God of heaven. Old Testament priests had to wash their clothes, and so make themselves clean (Numbers 8:6-7).

A dress code? Not in the least! A plea to honor and glorify God in our dress? Yes!

....via South Florida Avenue Messenger

IF IT'S DOUBTFUL, IT'S DIRTY
Author unknown

A man, one morning, was spending considerable time wondering whether he should wear a shirt for the second day or not. Economy was not to be entirely overlooked in his affairs, yet he did not wish to look untidy. His wife settled the question for him. finally by remarking, "if it’s doubtful, it's dirty." As a rule, avoid the thing that is doubtful and you will be on the safe side.

Our Pantry
Our pantry is in dire need of restocking. We are very low on canned meats and vegetables and would probably find it hard to minister to the needs of those that might seek our help. If you can help out in this area, please bring in canned meats and entrees as well as canned vegetables. Remember – all items must be packaged in non-perishable and bug proof containers. Let’s get our pantry back in usable condition.

Ghana Campaigns
We thank God that Bob Bauer and company have safely returned from their recent missionary trip to Ghana, West Africa. We look forward to their reports on the work there.
NOTE: Keep in mind that David Stearsman will be making the trip on July 7th in the company of Ted Wheeler to work in Ghana’s northern regions. See David for how you can help with his expenses.

We are all susceptible to outside pressures. None is beyond being influenced for good or evil. The spirit of enthusiasm from some of our friends can give us confidence to turn the world up-side-down. Others may have the opposite effect on our lives. We need to choose our companions wisely.