Fear of the Drum Records: News

God Bless Family!
I've been so busy putting the finishing touches on the "Heart of Worship" Album that I have ignored the site for a while.

Not anymore! I'm going to work extra hard to keep this thing updated from now on. Expect updates at least once a week! Same thing for the myspace pages (www.myspace.com/therealpsalmist and www.myspace.com/mcpsalmist).

Fear of the Drum officially has signed "Johnny Moral" and is in the midst of signing 2-3 other artists as well. 2008 is going to be a banging year for bringing the gospel.

Pray our strength and focus!
Love you with the Love of Jesus.
MC Psalmist

So, God has been dealing with me about a lot of things. I’m still trying to remove EVERY inkling of sexual impurity from my life…that’s a struggle and a half: not because I don’t love God, but because lust has been a stronghold in my life for as long as I can remember. I’m still pushing forward!

Got a great internet filter, netmop, which blocks 99% of porn and illegal websites. The problem is that I’m too savvy when it comes to technology! I am an ex-hacker, and so I know my way around the software, which raises the question, why do I even have it? But I guess one could make an argument that if I take all the steps to sidestep the software, there is no question that I was making a conscious effort to sin. It used to be that something would pop up unexpectedly and then I would be rolling down the slippery slope…now the slippery slop needs to begin in my mind.

The other thing God has been dealing with me about is my studio. See, when I got involved in studio technology, I was doing worldly music; now I’m doing Christian music. The problem is, dirt don’t care about thievery, but as sons of light we must. The problem is that the software I use on a regular basis tallies in at over $13,000! I don’t have that kind of money…I DO CHRISTIAN MUSIC!!!!!!!!!!!!

So this is where faith steps in and must guide me. I’m going to offer specials, bang the pavement with these dollar CD’s, push UCOUM (www.ucoum.com) like nobody’s business, sell my DVD collection (which is too R-rated as it is), etc…anything I can do to be right in God’s eyes I’ma do. And I’m just going to need to trust that God will bring some excellent deals my way to honor His servant’s faithfulness.

Well, if you need something holla atcha boi. You need a beat? I’m only gonna charge you $100! You need a whole album of beats? I’m only gonna chage you $1000. You need a whole album of beats, recording time, and mixing? I’m only gonna charge you $2000. And mastering services can be added to the package for only $500 per album.

Psalmist
Psalmist@fearofthedrum.com
267-244-2211

Exkal Just officially signed w/ Fear of the Drum Records....holla at the boi....keep posted for sound clips.

Paul J. Dean
Pastor, Counselor & Professor

Does your work really matter? Alissa Clark of Relevant Magazine.com poses this question in essence with her provocative article titled "Seeing God's Hand." In wrestling with writer's block, Clark begins to share her heart a bit when it comes to the issue of, dare I say, relevance. No doubt she expresses what many of us often feel. She says her problem is not simply writer's block. She becomes transparent and reveals, "I am scared to fail. I am afraid that I will pour out my heart and thoughts to you, but it won't make an iota of difference to you. There's a blinding fear that what I write will not matter. And even worse, there's that nagging feeling that what I do in my life, ultimately, will not matter."

Now that's transparency and honesty. But, she gets even more honest. In her words, "To be honest, this goes far beyond my writing. My 'day job' is mundane--technology in the world of investment banking. I'm not likely to change anyone's life or make a real difference in the world by sitting behind a desk and answering e-mails all day. I struggle with knowing why I've been placed here, when there seem to be so many people out there doing interesting things that make a difference."

She notes that she cannot be the only one who harbors such feelings. And she is right. The question of whether or not we are or even can make a difference in this world plagues most of us. No doubt thoughtful Christians wonder just how they can make such a difference in the work-a-day world of their 9 to 5 lives (8 to 6, etc.). Of course, God does have something to say to us that ought to encourage our hearts.

Work is Worship

First, your work matters because its part of your relationship with God. Work is part of your relationship to God because it is an act of worship. We are given this counsel: "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31)." That command puts all of life in the context of worship. We glorify God, that is, we put His character on display when we work. He worked. He worked in creation and redemption to name the big two.

When we work, we reflect His glory and we further derive joy in doing what He's called us to do. To the extent that we enjoy being where God wants us to be, and sometimes that's in the mundane or difficult circumstances of work related drudgery as a result of the curse, we enjoy God by virtue of our redemption in Christ. We find satisfaction in work as we find satisfaction in God. As we find satisfaction in God, we glorify Him. "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him (John Piper)."

Work is part of your relationship to God because God has given you the ability to work. "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave where you are going (Ecc. 9:10)." Among other things, this verse speaks to the fact that we have a limited time on this earth. God has given us certain things to do while we are here. Because they have been given to us by God, we need to pursue them with all of our might in the time allotted. In addition to giving us a sense of purpose and urgency, this commitment to diligence and excellence also glorifies God.

Work is part of your relationship to God because it reveals your character. "He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster (Prov. 18:9)." Part of who we are before God and man is revealed in the attitude we have toward work and the getting of that work done.

At the same time, work is part of your relationship to God because it is part of God's provision for you. "Prepare your work without, and make it fit for yourself in the field; and afterwards build your house (Prov. 24:27)." Diligent work pays off.

Work is Witness

Further, diligent work pays off as a means of witness when God provides. Our Christian ethic is on display as it were. Paul admonished, "Study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; that ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that you may have lack of nothing (1 Thes. 4:11-12)." Negatively, Paul reminded: "For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread (2 Thes. 3:10)."

If there were no other purpose for our work than for it to be a proving ground or a development ground or a place of obedience to God, it would still matter in an eternally significant way. And yet, there are other reasons your work matters.

Second, your work matters because it's a place of witness for Christ. We're all familiar with the Great Commission. "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age (Matt. 28:19-20)." Yet, there is some popular confusion regarding Christ's imperative command here.

It is a well known fact that while God calls missionaries to go to foreign fields, the imperative command here is "make disciples." The word translated "go" is a participle in the original language and would be better translated "as you go" or "as you are going." By inference, we could translate it thusly: "as you are going about the everyday business of your lives, make disciples." What this text means is that we are to make disciples wherever God has placed us, including our places of work. You are on mission with God at work. What an encouragement. Of course your work matters!

At the same time, let us not think that we must confront every one of our co-workers with the four spiritual laws. How about the issue of biblical counsel? Has anyone ever come to you with a problem? Can you give a biblical word that might lead into a discussion of the all-sufficiency of Christ in every area of life? Paul said, "Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another (Rom. 15:14)." Loving, gentle, biblical counsel leads us to speak of Christ to others.

Salt & Light

Third, by way of extension, your work matters because there you can be salt and light. The Lord Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:13-16)." As your co-workers see your good work and know why you do good work, they will glorify your Father in heaven. That's purpose. That's meaning. And again, that's worship.

Fourth, let's put it another way. Your work matters because it puts our Lord Jesus on display. "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time (Col. 4:5)." In other words, at work, be wise in front of your lost co-workers and make the most of every opportunity God gives you there for the sake of the gospel. How can you do that?

Do your work with excellence, for it shows the excellence of our God. "O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth (Ps. 8:9)!" Put God on display through your work ethic.

Put God on display in the product you produce whether it be a car, a magazine, or good investment advice. This dynamic will demonstrate the order and beauty of our God: not to mention the manifold benefits He bestows upon us. "The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork." You reflect that revelatory aspect of God in your handiwork, for you are an ambassador of Christ in all that you do.

Work with Integrity

Do your work with integrity. Some people may not appreciate your commitment to Christ or your commitment to excellence. Yet, they will in some way at some point be moved to glorify God because of you. Peter commanded, "Have your conduct honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation (1 Pet. 2:12)."

Fifth, your work matters because it helps you fulfill the cultural mandate. In Gen 1:28, we read: "And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth." Don't miss the commands to replenish, subdue, and have dominion over the earth. These dynamics relate to gospel influence in the world; in the culture; in the communities in which God has placed us.

Historically, Christians led the way in the development of hospitals, the university system, the arts, scientific endeavor, and technology. This reality is connected to God's general revelation of Himself as pointed out in Ps. 19:1 previously. Christians seek to discover all of that which God has revealed and put it on display to make a difference in this world that He might be praised among the nations. Cultures influenced by the gospel have always advanced in these key areas and more. Cultures in which gospel influence has waned also see a declining effect in those same areas.

In other words, with your work, while Christ and the other world is ultimate, we are commanded to impact this world for Christ. That means not only individual salvation but social and structural transformation, though again, not divorced from the gospel. But, that does in fact mean that with your work, you make the world a better place. We can see this cultural/dominion mandate in Paul's command to Titus: "This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men (Titus. 3:8)." Paul says our good works/work is profitable to men. Here he means the world in general.

Influence Society

With your work, you provide an exemplary influence in society. Again, Paul exhorts, "Let no man despise your youth; but you be an example of the believers, in word, in conduct, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity (1 Tim. 4:12)." Yes, this command is in the context of Timoth's pastoral ministry, but the application is appropriate. Christians are examples for others to follow in general and in terms of work ethic. You will compel others to do well by your good example. You will not only influence the culture at large, but you will influence your own work culture.

Sixth, your work matters because you show people that Christians are different. We've already noted that we should do whatever we do with all of our might (Ecc. 9:10). That is certainly a different approach to work than most display.

Further, Paul says, "Do all things without complaining and disputing (Phil. 2:14)." That too is different.

How about this? "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand (Phil. 4:4-5)." Would people see you as being different form the average worker with an attitude like that?

And did I mention diligence? "And we have sent with them our brother whom we have often proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, because of the great confidence which we have in you (2 Cor. 8:22)."

Can you be different in how you react to adversity at work and make an impact in so being? "For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content (Phil. 4:11)."

How about giving to others as a result of your work? Your work will be different if you engage in it with a view toward having extra to give to others. Paul encouraged, "Let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need." People will be grateful, and they will see Christ in you.

Of course, in your dialogue about work itself, you could speak of these things and then use them as an opportunity to segue into those things which are ultimate. This work is indeed temporary, but the work you do in the midst of it and behind it is eternal.

We could go on. This little sketch is but a cursory overview. Suffice it to say that we should be encouraged by these things, in these things, and to these things. May your heart be filled with love for Christ and others as you put Him on display in the work place. May you make a difference and see that difference for your own sense of purpose and joy in Christ. And remember:

Yes Alissa, your work matters.

Read Psalm 78:1-7

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

-Proverbs 3:5-6 (NRSV)
WHEN I was a freshman in college, I had a difficult time deciding on a major field of study. One day I went to talk to my economics professor, Dr. Gottfried, about my concerns and confusion. He sat quietly, listening to all I said. After I finished speaking, he leaned over his desk and simply said, "You know what your problem is, Nicole? You are trying to control your life; let God control it." I was shocked. I had gone to him for academic direction, not spiritual counseling. Months later, after much prayer, I decided to major in history; and I felt at peace.

Looking back, I can see God at work in the midst of my academic confusion. I believe that God used my professor to get my attention, to tell me to trust and to let go. Although a course of study does not determine long-term success or failure, my chosen discipline did shape my life positively and continues to do so.

When Dr. Gottfried and I talked, I didn't know what the future held for me. I still don't. But he taught me that I can trust God with my whole heart because God will "make straight my paths." This unexpected lesson in faith became the most important one my professor taught me.

Nicole Corlew (Tennessee, U.S.A.)

Just wanted to let heads know we have officially hit 1800 people on the mailing list.....keep signing up, we will have some free things coming soon to those on the mailing list.

Job 5:6–7

For affliction does not come from the dust, nor does trouble spring from the ground; yet man is born to trouble, as the sparks fly upward.

Snafu

Perhaps you have heard someone talk about a snafu. You probably realized that this meant something had gone wrong, but you may not know how the word became a part of our English language. In reality, snafu is the first letter of each word in the phrase, "Situation normal, all fouled up." In other words, when something goes wrong, why be surprised? It’s only normal for things to get fouled up. A snafu is something that can be expected. It’s just a part of life.

Job’s circumstances, of course, predate the word snafu but not the idea behind it. Job’s friend Eliphaz recognized that "trouble" and "man" have a natural affinity for one another. As sparks from a fire are drawn upward by the rising heat, so trouble seems naturally drawn to man. It reflects another adage of our time: "If something can go wrong, it will." No matter when or where you live, snafus are going to find you.

Christians are sometimes dismayed when things go wrong in their lives. After all, when we trusted Jesus as our Savior, our troubles were supposed to be over, right? Yet the truth is much different. Jesus said, "In the world you will have tribulation" (John 16:33). That’s just a normal part of living. The apostle Peter even said, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you" (1 Pet. 4:12). Snafus are not strange or out of the ordinary, even for Christians.

Perhaps you are experiencing a snafu today. Something you planned is fouled up. Don’t be surprised. Instead, turn to God. When your life goes contrary to your expectations, He is able to give you either the wisdom to deal with it or the grace to live with it. Trust Him.

When trouble draws close, draw close to God.

Author: Woodrow Kroll

What do You'll Think?

1 Corinthians 5:5
Hand this man over to satan, so that the sinful nature may be destroyed and his spirit saved on the day of the Lord.


Paul encountered a believer who was involved in an incestuous relationship in the Corinthian church. This man was deluded by Satan and was controlled by immorality. The man was unwilling to change his behavior, so Paul recommended to the church that tough actions be taken. He spiritually handed this man over to Satan for the destruction of his flesh for the benefit of his soul. The idea is that the person will wallow in the pit of sin so long until it becomes detestable to him and he cries out for God's grace. We know this man was a Christian because only a Christian can be subjected to church discipline.


Have you ever known someone who was walking in disobedience and no matter how much you prayed, he seemed oblivious to his sin? God has given one weapon to counter Satan's schemes against those who fall prey to Satan. That is, let Satan have access to them fully so that their lives become so miserable they cry out to God for mercy. Probably few of us have ever had to pray this prayer. However, you should not be fearful of this prayer for any believer who is willingly walking in disobedience. This is love - tough love. There is a time and place for tough love. I have seen this principle work. God restores His children when His Body takes a stand against sin. It is not comfortable for those who take this action.


Do you know someone who needs tough love in his or her life right now? Ask God if it is time to pray the prayer that Paul prayed: "So that his spirit might be saved on the day of the Lord."

Ephesians 1:19
. . . the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might . . .

In Ephesians 1:19-21, Paul gives us a peek at the dynamic source of our authority in Christ. He explains that the authority at our disposal flows from the reservoir of power which raised Jesus Christ from the dead and seated Him at the Father's right hand. That power source is so dynamic that Paul used four different Greek words in verse 19 to describe it: power (dunameos), working (energeian), strength (kratous), and might (ischuos) . Behind the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ lies the mightiest work of power recorded in the Word of God. And the same power which raised Christ from the dead and defeated Satan is the power available to us to overcome the works of Satan in our daily lives.

Paul opens our eyes to the expansive scope of Christ's authority which is "far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age, but also in the one to come" (Ephesians 1:21). Think about the most powerful and influential political or military leaders in the world. Imagine the most feared terrorists, crime kingpins and drug barons. Think about Satan and all the power of darkness marshaled under his command. Jesus' authority is not only above all these human and spiritual authorities past, present and future, but He is far above them. We share the same position because we are seated with Christ in the heavenlies, which enable us to live in freedom and victory over demonic intrusion and influence.

Don't be deceived. You are not under Satan's power or subject to his authority. You are in Christ above all demonic rule, authority and power.

Prayer:

Reigning with You, Lord--what a liberating thought! I praise You today for the power You share with me.

Written by Niel Anderson
(http://new.christianity.com/devotionals/dailyinchrist/default.aspx)

Ayo,
Psalmists new album is almost ready to start being leaked. Keep your ears open, the preview album is coming really soon!

Just wanted to Big up all the coutnries bangin Fear of the Drum music:

Big Ups to Canada, India, Switzerland, New Zealand, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, Seychelles, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Israel, The Netherlands, US Military and of coarse the USA.

Much Love.

Psalmist

Grace and Peace Saints!

Just wanted to let all interested parties know.....the beat liquidation sale is going great! About 15 beats have been claimed so far....more are going to be posted soon.

Also, psalmist just got a myspace account, check it out at www.myspace.com/therealpsalmist

Enjoy.

Lastly,
Psalmist will open an official studio for Fear of the Drum Records in January. The name of the studio will be the Halfway House (half graphic design, half studio). Rates will be up soon and we will be located in the heart of Philadelpiha.

Psalmist

Psalmist and Fear of the Drum Records just got picked up for distribution in Europe under the "fair trade network."

Psalmist will also have a non-exclusive clothing deal with christian throwback jersers. (www.christianthrowbackjersey.com)

How many times have you heard the following:

"you will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. The fruite of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock-the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks. Your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go up. The Lord will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven. The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving to you."

This is my favorite: "The Lord will mae you the head, not the tail."

These are the blessings promised in Deuteronomy 28 (and many more), however it saddens me that we skip verse 1 all too often: If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I (Moses) give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. (2) All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.

You see....this is all predependant on the fact that we follow the 10 commandments (thankfully Jesus fulfilled the law); Driving out nations from the inheritance promised us by the Lord-mine is music, what is yours?; Praising the Lord for what you have (8:10); Not eating unclean food (but Jesus proclaims all things are clean b/c its not what goes into a man that defiles him, but what comes out of a man); The year of Jubilee (cancelation of debts every 7 years); Celebrating the feasts (Passover, Feast of weeks, Feast of Tabernacles); Offerings made to the Levites (those who are in full time ministry must live off of offerings); Not being afraid of stronger enemies when going into battle (God will fight the battles); tithes and firstfruits (this is above and beyond supporting the levites); and more.

We want the blessing, but are we willing to keep the commands. I hope this challenges you the way that it is challenging me.

Grace and Peace
Psalmist

Praise the LORD Saints,
Psalmist's Music just got requested at WFHB 91.3FM & 98.1FM Bloomington, Indiana. So if you are in the area, please make sure that you are constantly requesting it.

Scripture Reference:
Exodus 32:25-29
Exodus 40:34-35

Consecration is not something for everyone, though God does desire it for every one of His sons and daughters. At the end of the book of Exodus, God’s cloud settled on the tabernacle and His glory filled it. The first time that the Israelites encounter the cloud was when they were leaving Egypt; the second time is at the base of the mountain after God had told Moses he wanted to speak with all of Israel: God had warned Moses though that no one was to come up the mountain because His glory would consecrate (set it apart as holy) it.

When considering how Aaron and his sons needed to be washed, clothed, anointed, and set apart for the LORD’s work, we can see that God wants what He sets apart to be completely his in full obedience. He doesn’t want a spotted offering; He doesn’t want praises from our lips when our hearts are far from him; He doesn’t want a servant who also serves his/her own agenda and/or the world.

When Moses came down the mountain (the 1st time), Israel was sinning against God. Moses called the Israelites to consecrate themselves, and only the Levites rallied. Because of this, 3,000 Israelites needed to be slain. Now in our modernized world, we cannot go back and forth in our cities and camps killing brothers, friends and neighbors. However, we can cut off those who refuse to consecrate themselves. God is a selfish God and He would desire that we, His children, would set ourselves apart for His purposes, cutting off any and all things that would hinder us from doing so.

Ayo,

Just wanted to let you know the Fear of the Drum Family is expanding. We have 7 countries banging the music and visiting the site.....praise God for that.

Got some new things on the Horizon.....keep up to date on the Shows b/c you will want to be there on the 14th for the live recording.

Psalmist

Fear of the Drum is currently looking for some people to partner with.

ayo family,

grace and peace,
this is Psalmist

yo, the reason why I'm writing you is because I'm looking for a few things to get the ministry exactly where I would like it to be.

a web designer/graphic designer would be really nice....but I know that having an in house person might be asking too much as I don't have the money to afford one. But now to what I really need:

A street team leader:
please, if you are interested email me at psalmist@fearofthedrum.com so that we can talk. Leave your phone number nad I'll holla at you. We need to increase the gospel at the street level.

A scribe:
I need someone just to be able to write about what is going on in the ministry, our beliefs, etc.....once again, holla at the email and leave your number.

Ministry team leader:
Looking for some1 to lead up and form the ministry team. While rap is happening we need a presence in the audience to minister to people on a one to one basis. holla at the email and leave your number.

I'm currently based out of Philadelphia and so I'm looking for people in the area with which I can build and make this happen. Just trying to make the ministry more effective so holla at me.

1
Psalmist

Brethren,
Grace and Peace. Big moves are about to be made.....trusting God to take this ministry thing full time. Some interest is being shown from some very influential people as well. Keep Psalmist in your prayers as he will definately need them.

Ayo,

the midwest tour was off the hook. Outreaching in East Chicago was crazy, people were getting filled with the Holy Spirit and all.

Lakewood church in Houston TX was off the hook too, lots of good connections. WE gonna be doing a lot of stuff w/ cats from out there.....even got offered to hunt some Buffalo on a reservation.

Twin City was crazy. Me and Israh drove 15 hours in 1 day. The ministry was great, but Satan was mad. Truth be told it was storming so bad I could've grabbed a lightning bolt just by putting out my hand. But God moved, people were touched and so were our finances. Praise Him.

More to come soon.

Grace and Peace
Psalmist