Tuesday, December 31, 2013

A New Year's Request: God's Will in 2014

I said, “I will be careful about how I live. I will not sin by what I say. I will keep my mouth closed when sinful people are near me.” I was silent and kept quiet. I didn’t even say anything good. But the pain inside me grew worse. My heart was deeply troubled. As I thought about what was happening to me, I became even more troubled. Then I spoke out. I said, “Lord, show me when my life will end. Show me how many days I have left. Tell me how short my life will be. You have given me only a few days to live. My whole life doesn’t seem like anything to you. No man’s life lasts any longer than a breath. People are only shadows as they go here and there. They rush around, but it doesn’t mean anything. They pile up wealth, but they don’t know who will get it. “Lord, what can I look forward to now? You are the only hope I have. Save me from all the wrong things I’ve done. Don’t let foolish people make fun of me. I keep silent. I don’t open my mouth. You are the one who has caused all of this to happen. Please stop beating me. I’m about to die from the blows of your hand. You correct and punish people for their sin. Just as a moth eats cloth, you destroy their wealth. No one’s life lasts any longer than a breath. “Lord, hear my prayer. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my sobbing. I’m like a guest in your home. I’m only a visitor, like all of my family who lived before me. Leave me alone. Let me be full of joy again before I die.” (Psalm 39:1-13)
I stumbled upon these verses when searching the Scriptures this morning. What powerful verses from the one anointed to be King of Israel. Listen to his humble heart. Hear his plea for God's grace. Feel the pain he feels not only from the hurt others cause him, but from his own sin! No wonder God admired David's heart for the things of God!
I pray that these can be my words to the Father in 2014. I want to grieve over my sin and the sins of this generation. I want my life to matter . . . not just for me but for generations to come. Lord, what can I look forward to now . . . in the year to come? Keep me focused upon You so I can indeed do Your will and not my own. Help me to be full of Your joy and think the way You think about things!
Happy and Blessed 2014 everyone . . . May God's will be your desires!

Monday, December 30, 2013

By whose standards?

God has breathed life into all of Scripture. It is useful for teaching us what is true. It is useful for correcting our mistakes. It is useful for making our lives whole again. It is useful for training us to do what is right. By using Scripture, a man of God can be completely prepared to do every good thing.(2 Timothy 3:16-17)
I must admit, I am really challenged these past few days and weeks. I hear so many different viewpoints concerning Christianity and the Word of God. While I expect this from secular news and the culture, I am still a bit upset and perplexed when I hear so many viewpoints from believers! My challenge does not come from hearing the various comments and reactions from random folks, but from the so-called biblical viewpoints! From all I have read and been taught, God has not changed and neither will His Word. He cannot lie and will not change His mind on what He requires from His people. Are we living for Him? Are we seeking His return as in the days of Malachi?
“I am the Lord. I do not change."(Malachi 3:6)
Paul warns us in Hebrews to keep the covenant of marriage pure. He reminds us to be content with what we have and to follow the Scriptural teachings of those of faith. We are to support our leaders (elders) and honor them, not make life miserable for them. God is to get the glory from our lives. It is not about us or what we have accomplished. Does that reflect our Body of believers today?
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.(Hebrews 13:8)
Tolerating sin is really disgusting. Being afraid to lose friends, associates, or supporters should not be the deciding factor in how we live! Yes, I understand that none of us is perfect but God and that we all sin and fall short of God's glory. But I hate my sin. I can't stand it when I let God down. I do it day after day, yet I refuse to excuse it and say "I'll do it anyway" and still claim that I love God!
By whose standards are we living?
To repeatedly lie and say it is acceptable for a Christian is just wrong. To be a thief and justify it by saying I was born a thief is crazy. What murderer can go free simply by saying "God knows me and loves me . . . it's ok"? If we are saved by the blood of Christ, there must be conviction that sin, all sin, is wrong in God's eyes and we need help in changing our minds concerning sin. The Holy Spirit is our guide and our conviction. He is our help and strength. We must agree with God that sin is not excused or tolerated but called sin! There are even times when we have to make the hard decisions to end relationships that continuously challenge our own relationship with God!(1 Corinthians 6:9-20) If Paul was correct when he was instructing a young pastor named Timothy to use Scripture to lead his people, then we too must use Scripture as it is; not watered-down or dummied-down! We are not here to please everyone, but to draw everyone to the loving arms of Jesus Christ. it is not God's will that anyone be lost, but sadly, some will be. Let's be sure of our beliefs and live by our Father's instructions! It will all be right one day!
Heaven and earth will pass away. But my words will never pass away.(Matthew 24:35)

Saturday, December 28, 2013

The comfortable and friendly CHRISTian . . .

So many get upset when one publically calls out sin.
"Don't judge me" they say. Well, I have news for you. If we in the Church do not lovingly judge or correct one another, God will! Judgment begins in the Church. (1 Peter 4:17)
God gave us a son (John 3:16) and promised us a Savior (Isaiah 9:6) in order to redeem us from sin, not tolerate it! While we do not expect the unredeemed and the lost to understand, we do and must call the believer to be accountable . . . but in love! Jesus does not tell to not judge, but to point out sin lovingly and with mercy and in a way that leads one to the reconciliation of Christ.(Luke 9:35-42) It was because of sin that God gave to us! If we do not point out sin, then we will not be able to explain the need for a Savior! Sin caused Christ to come down from heaven and sacrifice for us. We 9as a Church) need to be called to accountability and discipleship. There needs to be a constant on-going desire to be sinless and to desire to sin less and less each day! We must seek to live as a holy people. Live in this world yes. Dig into the culture of this world yes. . . yet a holy people . . . not freaks of nature, but as holy, human, saved, and living-for-Jesus-and-His-will people!(1 Peter 2:9) Jesus and sin cannot co-exist. Christians therefore cannot blatantly tolerate sin nor condone it! We must also be careful to pint out our own challenges with sin. We are not perfect, but striving for perfection! So now, who is willing to walk beside the sinner we point out and help him or her to get to know the Savior? It is easy to both ignore and tolerate. It is easy to judge without love. None involves our commitment. Love requires dedication. If we are truly disciples of Jesus then we are to making disciples of ourselves as well.
As we follow Jesus, others should be walking along with us. Are we willing to pay the price of discipleship or live the easy life of the comfortable and friendly CHRISTian?

Monday, December 23, 2013

Do I Celebrate CHRISTmas?

An angel of the Lord appeared to them. And the glory of the Lord shone around them. They were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy. It is for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord. 12 Here is how you will know I am telling you the truth. You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a large group of angels from heaven also appeared. They were praising God. They said, 14 "May glory be given to God in the highest heaven! And may peace be given to those he is pleased with on earth!"
(Luke 2:9-14) I know all about the secular and satanic symbols. I know the cultic associations with Christmas. Yet I still celebrate!
The evergreen tree (to me) represents the eternal life every believer has when he trusts the sacrifice Jesus made upon a tree long ago(Romans 10:9-10). That cross is stationed just behind the nativity scene in my yard and reminds everyone who rides by that a child was born to die in order to save man from his sin(John 3:16!) The angels spelling out "Peace on Earth" shout out the joy we should all still feel within our hearts (Luke 2:14). The candy cane symbolizes the shepherd's staff, reaching out to the lost sheep. The red represents the blood shed to make my heart white as snow before God. Even the peppermint taste is said to represent the bittersweet "holy herb" hyssop David once asked to purge him (Psalm 51:7). The lights, well they remind me that we are still to be the light to a dark world (Matthew 5:14-16). And Santa, well there was once a really nice CHRISTian man who did good for those in need and although he is not eternal like Christ, he is a good image for an innocent child to hold onto!
So do I celebrate? Oh yeah! I celebrate because I know the Savior! I celebrate because the Bible tells me to celebrate as the shepherds and magi did! I celebrate not to please my neighborhood or my friends, but to honor my God (Galatians 1:10)! Celebrate CHRISTmas while it is still legal! Take a stand for the Savior who was born to die . . . and rise to give us life and freedom to CELEBRATE!

Saturday, August 31, 2013

10 Commandments for Husbands . . .

I thought this may be an interesting read for the men and women over the labor day weekend. Let me know your thoughts . . .
1.Thou shalt not take thy wife for granted, but will honour and respect her as thy equal. (1 Peter 3:7) 2.Thy highest allegiance, except God, shall be to thy wife, not thy relatives, children, or friends. (Genesis 2:24) 3.Thou shalt frequently tell thy wife how important & valuable she is to thee. (Philemon 2:3; Proverbs 31:10-11) 4.Thou shalt hold thy wife's love by the same means that thou won it. (Song of Solomon 5:10-16) 5.Thou shalt actively establish family discipline with thy wife's help. (Ephesians 6:4) 6.Remember to do all the little things for thy wife when you say you will. (Matthew 5:37) 7.Keep thine eyes on thy own wife, not thy neighbors. (Proverbs 5:15-20; Job 31:1; Jeremiah 5:8) 8.Thou shalt make every effort to see things from thy wife's point of view. (Genesis 21:12) 9.Thou shalt not fail to kiss thy wife every morning. (Song of Solomon 8:1) 10.Thou shalt not be stingy with thy wife when it comes to money. (Esther 5:3)
(taken from www.bible.ca/marriage/f-10commandments-husbands-wives.htm) Now for a few random comments . . .
My wife is my helpmeet . . . my completer . . . a vital part of me . . . my equal! She alone is my priority . . . there is one priority apart from God. Everyone and everything else comes next! We must keep encouraging our wife throughout the day as to her value. Don't stop hunting . . . keep pursuing our wife! The husband must actively establish and carry out discipline . . . do it out it on the wife! We are the leaders!!! Stop looking at other women or even trying to compare. Our wife is for us and no one else! Our desire needs to be for her. Understand that God has gifted most wives with discernment over financial matters and relational issues. Trust her! Kiss your wife throughout the day and send her text messages, e-mails, even phone calls to make sure she knows you are thinking of her. It's not your money . . . it's our money!
This is not a completed work. Lord knows I struggle in many areas. But we don't stop guys. Ladies, encourage us in love as well. Most of us want to do well as a husband. We feel so dejected when we fail. It is not easy in this world to be a Christian husband. We need your help!
God bless our marriages! With His help we will succeed and show the world what Christ really can do through a Godly marriage! This is our goal . . . to honor God!

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Freedom with Restrictions? Sound Confusing? Graceful Discernment . . .

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God . . . even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.(1 Corinthians 10:31-33)
Christ frees one up in so many ways. It so liberating to belong to the Savior. However, so many feel as though their freedom has no restrictions . . . sound confusing? While the blood of Christ frees us from the penalties of sin, there are still some real and lingering consequences! The redeemed sinner is free to experience eternal life with the Lord, but still must pay logical consequences for the sin he or she commits. If I steal, I will have to face a judge and either pay it back or do some time. If I murder, I may be forgiven, yet I still may be sentenced to death, life in prison, or another amount of jail time. If I speed behind the wheel of an automobile, I deserve a ticket and perhaps a fine. The law on earth still has its rule over us.
Yet even the things we can legally do must be tempered with a graceful discernment as to not negatively influence others to fall into sin or away from Christ altogether.
Yes we may be free to have a glass of wine or beer, but we must be careful to respect others customs or beliefs. If a friend is an alcoholic, it would not be in the best interests of any of us to break open a six-pack for the game. If we are socializing with vegetarian friends, we may choose to order a salad or veggie plate to keep the evening going rather than a big, juicy steak. Coffee drinkers may decide to drink tea or some other beverage around those whose traditional morning drink may be tea. While we may enjoy a bit of jazz or R&B, it may be a bit offensive or tempting to immature or young believers, so we change the genre of music. Some of us may choose to never watch movies of R-ratings or below so as to set an example for those under-age or prone to wander.
Yes we have freedom in Jesus, but there are restrictions! We learn to adapt our preferences in order to win friends for the Lord and to not bring Him shame!

Thursday, August 22, 2013

So Why Do We Do What We Do?

So eat and drink and do everything else for the glory of God. Don’t do anything that causes another person to trip and fall. It doesn’t matter if that person is a Jew or a Greek or a member of God’s church. Follow my example. I try to please everyone in every way. I’m not looking out for what is good for me. I’m looking out for the interests of others. I do it so that they might be saved.(1 Corinthians 10:31-33)
Paul is telling us that as Christians, we are not bound by laws and other restrictions. We are bound however, to love . . . love God and love people. Our motive is that in all we do, we do it to glorify God and to draw others to Him. I am often reminded of the many mission trips of which I have been blessed to be a participant. I have witnessed many different cultures and lifestyles unlike my own, At one time, I would have tried to correct someone for doing things wrong; the wrong songs or the wrong activities. Yet I have come to realize that I was one wrong in trying to change a person's culture. God is the one who has encouraged cultural differences. That is the beauty of the Christian Body! We are one Body with many various voices, talents, and faces. What counts is how we live for the One we worship more than how we worship.
As we learn to respect the various cultural differences between so many of us, we come to see the beauty of God and His creation.
I often use the example of a morning drink. I LOVE coffee. So does the Lord I have come to find out; Holy Grounds (Exodus 3:5)the book of HE-brews for example. However, while in the Caribbean Islands on a mission trip, I learned that one sweetens coffee with a thick creamy milk and brown sugar cane rather than our coffee creamer and sugar or sugar substitute. I loved the new taste! If I were travel to England, I assume I would be drinking Earl Grey tea over morning devotions rather than a strong cup of Folger's Black Silk. I went to a jazz club in New Orleans with a pastor there while on a mission assignment . . . not my normal venue to discuss spiritual matters, but great to grow as friends! You see, I want the other person to feel comfortable with me so when we do share the Gospel, we will have a basic trust among each other. While I never want to do something to cause one to sin, I also must be wary of doing things to hinder friendships and possible partnerships in Christ. Criticizing cultural practices can be deadly. What we don't know about others can hurt us. We need to study people and be open to how the Lord can develop friendships. We have so much freedom in Christ! However, it is freedom from sin, not freedom to sin! Be careful . . .
As some good friends have taught me: Love God with all you got, love people 'til you drop.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

We are under attack . . .

Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly. Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the Lord your God, and cry out to the Lord . . . To you, Lord, I call, for fire has devoured the pastures in the wilderness and flames have burned up all the trees of the field. Even the wild animals pant for you; the streams of water have dried up and fire has devoured the pastures in the wilderness.(Joel 1:14-20)
These are challenging times indeed, at least for me and my family! What about you? If you are not personally challenged, at least you may know of others who are suffering hardship. If not others, what about our nation, the world? People are in need . . .families are breaking down . . . neighborhoods are in turmoil . . . nations on the brink of destruction. Do you recall Tuesday, September 11, 2001? Everyone was calling upon God for answers. Why? How? What next? Is this the end? No real answers came. We still don't really know why or how. We never know what next. What we do know is that God does know!
The following Sunday churches were packed. People sought God. But only for a short while . . .
Does it take a monumental terrorists' attack for a world, even simply a community or family to seek God? I don't know about you, but I am earnestly seeking Him today for my somewhat menial needs. My needs may be small compared to the world, but to me and my family, they are monumental and only God can meet our needs!
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Monday, August 19, 2013

He will . . . but when?

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. (James 1:2-9)
We all have heard these verses many times. We also like to quote them to others when they are going through!
But this is for me . . . maybe even you today. I have been facing some big challenges they past few weeks and only God can answer the questions and provide the answers. I am qualified, experienced, and ready to serve, yet for some reason things are not working out. It is a trial indeed. I don't quite understand.
Others have disappointed me as well. However, this is not their problem. it is my challenge! It is maturing my faith for sure. I am trusting God. Yet I also doubt myself. My desire is to stay planted on His promises and watch Him come through, so He gets the glory and He alone!
I know He will, just don't know when . . .

Saturday, August 17, 2013

Trust

In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Keep me free from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God.(Psalm 31:1-5)
Our money still has the slogan written upon it, "In God we trust" We all well know this is not the belief of many Americans, much less our government. In fact, we do not even trust God with the money on which the slogan is contained! "It's my money and I want it now!" is the more popular slogan!
So where is our trust?
David writes on many occasions concerning his trust in God. Throughout his life he had no one but God to turn to. God was his Rock, his Salvation, his Refuge, his Fortress, his Hope.
This is my prayer as I face today, tomorrow and the future: God be all I need and all I desire! I want what You want!

Friday, August 16, 2013

Nothing at All

Even more, I consider everything to be nothing compared to knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. To know him is the best thing of all. Because of him I have lost everything. But I consider all of it to be garbage so I can get to know Christ. I want to be joined to him.(Philippians 3:8-9)
All that we can accomplish is really nothing at all if it is not in the will of God and for His glory. I have reached a point in life where I want His will, but it is so hard to wait for it or even to realize it when I am in it. The world is so screwed up that each day becomes a challenge. Family, jobs, finances, educational needs . . . so many opportunities to honor God . . . or to ignore Him!
We have to s l o w d o w n and be careful to include God and His Word in each and every decision. If we do not, the smallest decision can and will become our greatest problem!
The challenges of this world should cause the believer to concentrate on His Word and bring every decision under the grid of the Bible. No matter what others may think, even our fellow believers, we must be so careful. I have given up so much for Christ and it seems at times as if I have nothing.
The world will judge me by its standards when it comes to credit ratings, salary, and possessions. I am a nobody. God judges the heart however. My desire is to please Him despite the world! I am His child!

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Use Me!

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (Matthew 9:37-38)
Our minimal service unto the Lord is our life. (Romans 12:1-2) This is the basic offering. This is how we witness to the world. Our life is an open book to reveal the power of God. May God use each of us to serve Him in the way in which He has gifted us. I am ready!
Here am I . . . send me! (Isaiah 6:8)

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Will We Just Let God be God?

He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”(Matthew 17:20-21)
A mustard seed is very small yet grows into a tremendous shade tree. Likewise, with just a bit of faith, we too can accomplish great things if we only allow God to be God! If we believe he created the world, why do not allow Him to rule over our world? If we believe He will care for us more than He does the rest of His creation, then why do we think we have so much control? If He is God, we must trust Him to be God in our lives!
. . .without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)
, http://www.photographybypolly.co.uk/copyright/floraandfauna/mustard_trees.jpg

Friday, August 9, 2013

Colors of Life; A Poem . . .

Gold reminds us of the perfected love not found in this world;(John 3:16) Yet Darkness tells us of a heart so soiled.(Romans 3:23) Red gives meaning to God's love so deep;(Hebrews 9:22) Cleansing the hearts of those who weep. (Romans 10:9-10) The blues of the ocean waters tell baptism's place; (Acts 2:38) While the green reminds us to grow in His grace!(1 John 1:9)
Do YOU know Jesus?

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Skating on Thin Ice

“But the tax collector stood not very far away. He would not even look up to heaven. He beat his chest and said, ‘God, have mercy on me. I am a sinner.’ (Luke 18:13)
The popular Gospel song from a while back goes like this . . . . We fall down but we get up . . . We fall down but we get up . . . For a saint is just a sinner who fell down and got up!
But is it that simple?
Genuine repentance pleads with the Lord to forgive and deliver from the burden of sin and the fear of judgment and hell. It is the attitude of the publican who, fearful of even looking toward heaven, smote his breast and cried, "God, be merciful to me, the sinner!" (Luke 18:13). Repentance is not merely behavior reform. But because true repentance involves a change of heart and purpose, it inevitably results in a change of behavior. (John MacArthur)
Like the young boy or girl who wanders out on the ice on an early winter morning, the next step could be disaster for us. We are one step away from sin and plunging into icy waters way over our heads. Much like the winter ice, sin’s consequences are many times hidden under the false security of no one ever finding out. Yet one more step and the covering cracks and we find ourselves sprawling for something to grab onto in order to keep from going under! However, the skater on the ice rink has no danger of falling through the ice . . . he or she knows there is a solid foundation below. He falls, but pushes back up. Many times we may hit the ground hard, but our foundation of faith allows us to get back up again! Eventually we stay up on our feet longer and longer. We begin to get used to each step and feel comfortable on the ice. We are stable and confident to go on . . . even faster! The foundation must be secure before we take any steps! The heart must be right . . .
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Different Than the Rest

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.(1 Peter 2:9-10)
SLO NO MO! Now we have a fast snail! This is an oxymoron if there ever was one! The newest in animated movies is Turbo, a snail who dreams of being the greatest racer in the world. He dreams of being like his hero: five-time Indianapolis 500 champ, Guy Gagne. His obsession with speed and all things fast has made him an oddity and outsider in the world of snails. Turbo is a fast snail in a world of s l o w n e s s ! Let’s look at the salmon as well. Once they have fully matured, they will swim back to their original stream or river where they re-adapt to the fresh water and swim back up the stream to reach their spawning grounds. Sometimes this means swimming up rugged rivers with miles of rapids and even waterfalls to leap. Once they get back to their natal stream, they breed and lay their eggs. The salmon’s life is constantly changing and rearranging, but following God’s design for the salmon! • Are we bold enough to be different? • Will we accept that God has called us to be OUT-standing? • Will we be willing to go against the grain?
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.(1 Peter 9:12)

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Cloudy With a Chance of WHAT????

Now the earth was corrupt in God’s sight and was full of violence. God saw how corrupt the earth had become, for all the people on earth had corrupted their ways. So God said to Noah, “I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out. This is how you are to build it: The ark is to be three hundred cubits long, fifty cubits wide and thirty cubits high. Make a roof for it, leaving below the roof an opening one cubit high all around. Put a door in the side of the ark and make lower, middle and upper decks. I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on earth will perish. But I will establish my covenant with you, and you will enter the ark—you and your sons and your wife and your sons’ wives with you . . . (Genesis 6:11-18)
You all saw the movie . . . food raining down from the skies! Think about Noah’s day: no one had ever seen rain! Why the ark old man? Are you crazy? Then came the floods from every angle upon the earth!
. . .as it is written in Isaiah the prophet:“I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way” . . .“a voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. And this was his message: “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 1:2-8)
The Savior has arrived! Get ready! He is coming! John the Baptist said it and many refused to accept the fact. We hear it today and many are refusing to accept Him on His terms . . . or think they can wait . . .
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. “Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. (Revelation 22:12-14)

Monday, August 5, 2013

NO FLAVOR

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16)
Name your favorite foods . . . . Why do you like them so much? Now, name your favorite things you add to food . . . • Ketchup • Mustard • Hot sauce • Pepper • SALT
Why do we add these things? FLAVOR!!!!
A believer must be attractive . . . appealing . . . tasteful to others! We cannot be bland, boring, and vanilla. We must be a spotlight to the dark world! How can we do this . . . pray, plan, practice! • Pray for opportunities an stay in His Word daily. • Make a plan to reach at least one person a week and keep a list. • Put it into practice . . . yes PRACTICE!
Add a little flavor to this boring world . . . spice it up!!!!

Friday, August 2, 2013

Get Your Head on Straight

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
Hats are soooo popular today. Much like shoes, people wear them and at times have never played the sport or know the names they represent. Styles like Snapback, New Era, 59fifty, Reebok, Hurley, Nike, Adidas Zephyr, Mitchell & Ness, etc. • We wear them backwards, sideways, tilted back and inside out. • They are worn for style, for color, or for popularity . . . or to cover bad hair or in my case . . . NO HAIR! • Head coverings are essential for fashion today. Yet some wear them for safety . . . baseball players, football players, hockey players, lacrosse, and jockeys all wear helmets along with construction workers, miners, and other professions.
Many times, the headgear makes the person and other times it protects the person!
But listen to what Paul tells us: 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. 12 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 . . . Take the HELMET OF SALVATION and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:10-17) Every piece of armor the Roman soldier wore had a purpose. The helmet kept the head protected from arrows from above. It reminds us to keep our minds protected. How we think usually dictates our actions. We must be thinking with God . . . making decision based upon His will for us. This world will bring all sorts of temptations and troubles. We have decisions to make. Is your head protected?
GET YOUR HEAD ON STRAIGHT!

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Not A Fan!

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.” (Luke 10:27-28)
• What would you do if you had a chance to have lunch with RGIII? • What if you received an invitation to dine with the president and his wife? • Do we get as excited at the chance to talk with God?
What is a fan . . .a FANatic?
Webster defines it as an enthusiastic devotee (as of a sport or a performing art) usually as a spectator. There is the key word . . . a spectator! Think of the game you last watched or attended . . . I am NOT a fan of Jesus Christ! He did not go through all He encountered for me to be His fan . . . a spectator . . . one to sit on the sidelines and cheer! I am His follower . . . His disciple! I want people to see Him when they see me!
The words from Luke 10 above do not describe a FAN, but a devoted follower and an active participant!
• So can we still enjoy sports and still love God? • Can we still follow a favorite movie star or singer and still love God? • Can we love others and love God? Of course . . . but God must be first . . . above all . . . motivating us in whatever else we do!
Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:14-15)

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Footprints

Because Jesus knew that the Father had handed all things over to him, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, he got up from the meal, removed his outer clothes, took a towel and tied it around himself. He poured water into the washbasin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to dry them with the towel he had wrapped around himself. Then he came to Simon Peter. Peter said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not understand what I am doing now, but you will understand after these things.” Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet!” Jesus replied, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head!” Jesus replied, “The one who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not every one of you.” (John 13:3-10)
Jesus always set the example. He never simply told people what to do . . . He did it! Here he set the example of being a servant by lowering Himself to the menial task of washing feet . . . a job for the house servants of His day.
Jesus also shows us how important our feet are: where we walk or where we travel tells a lot about who we are as a person.
Are we willing to go places where He leads us? Do we pick and choose where we would like to be and who we would rather visit? Will we say, “Here I am send me!” (Isaiah 6:8)
The path our feet travel tells so much about our walk with the Lord!

Monday, July 29, 2013

Sinful Appetities . . . A Simple Choice.

See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son. 17 Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done.(Hebrews 12:16-17)
Forgiveness is a wonderful thing and where would any of us be without this gift from God? However, choosing not to sin is even better and without the consequences of sin, life would be so much better! Just imagine living out God's perfect plan for our lives and receiving all of the blessings He has in store for each of us! Young people especially, please heed the advice of those of us who have made the very mistakes you are planning to undertake: choosing God's will is always best. His ways are far above our ways. Listen to wise counsel. It is better to not sin than to want to experience it for yourself! Esau lost his birthright for a simple bowl of soup! How many of us lose God's blessings because of our appetites?
Sinful appetites or a simple choice . . .
Choices we make today will shape our tomorrows to come!

Friday, July 26, 2013

I CAN See God!

. . . .since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature . . . have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. Although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator . . . who is forever praised. Amen. (Romans 1:19-25)
Are these things proof of God?
• Looking at the ocean and smelling it and hearing it . . . • Niagara Falls . . . • the sounds that trees make in the wind.... • the light in a child’s eyes . . . • Thunder and lightning ... the sunrise and sunset.
But I’m wondering if sometimes in nature you can sense an absence of God?
• or hurricane . . . • Tornado . . . • the violent side of nature . . . • damaging hail . . . • floods . . . • extreme cold and hot temperatures . . .
Are these things God?
God did this (created the world) so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being. (Acts 16:27-28)

Thursday, July 25, 2013

On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” (Mark 8:27-29)
Jesus is life. Jesus is grace. Jesus is your friend. We know what the Bible says, but what do YOU say? Why? Try this simple exercise today and think deeply . . . God is __________________________. Jesus is ________________________. The Holy Spirit is __________________________________. Do we agree with Peter? Does it show?

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Play to Win!

In a race all the runners run. But only one gets the prize. You know that, don’t you? So run in a way that will get you the prize. All who take part in the games train hard. They do it to get a crown that will not last. But we do it to get a crown that will last forever. (1Corinthians 9:24-25)
Not enough to get there to the game . . . Not enough to just get saved as a CHRISTian! Play to WIN . . . Live to Win! Here’s what Ray Lewis said to the team in the locker room following the double overtime win in Denver last winter:
“If you don’t know David’s story about fighting Goliath, he didn’t walk up to fight him. He ran up to Goliath. He moved swiftly to make Goliath off balance before he hit him with the slingshot. This is our time. And, when we make up our minds to do things together as men, anything is possible. Nothing can stand before us. Not Goliath. Nothing. Let’s enjoy this ride. This is our time. This is Ravens time.”
What do people say about us as believers? . . . About you as young people? Trophies are nice. Awards are encouraging. However, it is what we people know about our character that really counts. It what God knows about us that matters for eternity! • We must get in the game. • We have to PLAY the game! • We have to play hard! Jesus was no wimp! He did everything with compassion and purpose.
So I am asking you to offer up your bodies to him while you are still alive. Your bodies are a holy sacrifice that is pleasing to God. When you offer your bodies to God, you are worshiping him. 2 Don’t live any longer the way this world lives. Let your way of thinking be completely changed. Then you will be able to test what God wants for you. And you will agree that what he wants is right. His plan is good and pleasing and perfect. (Romans 12:1-2)
In the end, it’s not whether we win or lose (Lombardi Trophy). In fact, we have already won the battle if we have committed to the Lord! So it really is HOW WE PLAY THE GAME! What is being said of you today? If I ask your friends and family what would they say about you? What will be said of any of us when life is over on earth? What is God saying?
I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Remember the firsts . . .

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:6-7)
What are some first in life? First time on a bike . . . first time at the beach . . . first sleepover . . . first hit in a baseball game? We remembe those first and many times they rejuvenate our hearts and re-energize us to get up and move on. Remember when you first heard the Good News? Remember when you actually made a commitment to Christ? remember the joy . . . the excitement?
Go back and remember . . . .
Paul reminds Timothy to go back to his roots with his grandmother and recall how she shared the Scripture with him. Timothy needed encouragement. We do also at times. We get challenged. We get down. We need to remember when . . . It's normal to get down but do not stay there! God gives the believer power, self-discipline, and most of all love . . . love for Him and for others. His love for us overcomes anything the world can throw at us.
Live in His love today. Remember when?

Monday, July 22, 2013

Do the things I choose to do really matter?

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.(1 Corinthians 10:31-33)
I am often asked: "Does it really matter to others what I do? Does it even matter to God?" Yes . . . YES!!!! Our choices influence the way we live, how we treat others, and what others see in us. Many times, we are judged by the choices we make. In fact, the choices we make in life determine where we will spend eternity! Take TV shows for instance: We all have our favorite shows. We schedule our evenings and afternoons around them. We will record them to view when we have quality time to watch. We even discuss them on social networks.
Many times, we emulate the actors we watch and begin to desire the things we see on TV. It becomes our reality!
What would we do without the things we spend time with daily? Perhaps we would spend more time with people! Maybe we would even spend more time with the Lord! Now that's a thought! Our choices do really matter . . . to others and to God!
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.(Colossians 3:17)

Friday, July 12, 2013

It's Great to be a Kid!

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. (Matthew 18:1-4)
Wow . . . listen to the words of Jesus. Initially, Jesus says that we will not enter the kingdom of heaven unless we become like a child. So we adults need to change our mindset and think like children think. Not that we become immature and childish in the traditional sense, but that we accept things in simplicity. Children have a way of believing everything you say and believing it as fact. It's only when we grow up that we tend to question everything. You know the things kids asked when they begin to get smart . . .
"Why is the sky blue?" "Why do we have to take baths?" "Why can't eat pizza and hot dogs every day for lunch and dinner and cupcakes for breakfast?"
But the currency of the kingdom of heaven is faith. It's what moves God's heart and what the great people of God are known for. So for the first part Jesus is telling us, "have faith like a child". Jesus is not complicated! The humility of a child is very evident. It's a beautiful thing to watch. Although they may compete with each other in games and such, the humility they have without even knowing it is astounding! In the Jewish culture a child was thought of as insignificant until they were twelve years old. Now think about our youth. . .when do they begin to compare their clothes, toys, even abilities in sports . . . ten . . . twelve? Essentially, Jesus is saying act as if you were the lowest in society. Jesus often tell us to go lower if we want to be higher. Our humility in His eyes equals in direct proportion to how He exalts us. The word says over and over that our job is to humble ourselves in His sight and He exalts us.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. (James 4:10)
It's great to be a kid . . . in God's Kingdom!

Thursday, July 11, 2013

A Model for Prayer

Pray like this . . .
In this manner, therefore,pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come . . . Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13
) So what do we do with what is called the Model Prayer? We use it as a model not a script!! I believe God was asking us to pray on a personal level with God, not with a scripted list of words (like the Pharisees and church leaders of His day).
"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. (Matthew 6:5)
Make it personal . . . speak to your God!
Write it down . . . .
My Father . . . Daddy . . . Yu are soooo holy and perfect . . . .I really want what You want for this world . . . for my life . . and for all those around me! Please provide all I need this day because only You know what I really need! Please forgive my sins and show me how to forgive others who hurt me! I know You never tempt me, but I am tempted to do wrong by the devil and my own desires as a human being, so protect me Lord. I really need Your help! You indeed have all the power in the world and You are so very awesome! Help me to love and appreciate You more each day and to share Your love with others! Amen!!!!!
What will you say to God?

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Do you know Him like that?

Who is Jesus to you personally . . . Do you know Him like that?
Consider these words . . . (John 6:51):"I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever;" (John 8:23): And He said to them, "You are from beneath; I AM from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. (John 8:12): Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I AM the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." (John 8:58): Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM." (John 10:9): "I AM the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture." (John 10:11): "I AM the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. (John 10:36): "do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, 'You are blaspheming,' because I said, 'I am the Son of God'? (John 11:25): Jesus said to her, "I AM the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. (John 14:6): Jesus said to him, "I AM the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 15:1): "I AM the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. (John 19:2): Therefore the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, "Do not write, 'The King of the Jews,' but, 'He said, "I am the King of the Jews."'" (Acts 7:32): Stephen speaking of Moses' encounter at the burning bush "saying, 'I am the God of your fathers-- the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.' And Moses trembled and dared not look." (Acts 9:5): And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads."
From Moses through the New Testament . . . Jesus Is the I Am . . .who is He to you?

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Content with God and Others . . .Practice!

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable . . .if anything is excellent or praiseworthy . . .think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me . . .put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)
So how do we have peace of God . . .how do we possible live in contentment as a CHRISTian in such a world? Think of what is TRUE . . . concentrate on His Truths about you and the world. Concentrate on the noble and right things about this life in comparison to our faith. Dwell upon the things that are pure and lovely rather than the disgusting and vile things this world offers. Stay focused upon the excellent and praiseworthy things we have in our lives. Oh yes, follow after Godly men and women, not those who have a form of godliness or claim to know God, yet show no real signs of a relationship! Walk then in the Spirit of God, not the spirit of this world . . . we must PRACTICE!
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law . . . (Galatians 5:22-23)

Monday, July 8, 2013

Habits are hard to break . . .

Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help. So they went to the king and spoke to him about his royal decree . . .(Daniel 5:10-12)
What kind of habits do we find ourselves engaged in each day? What things do we find ourselves doing routinely each morning . . . during the day . . . at bedtime? What can others observe from us throughout our daily routines?
Daniel had a habit of praying!
Both his friends and enemies knew Daniel could be found praying at least three times. So naturally, when he heard of the King's decree to ban worshipping anyone besides the king for the next thirty days, Daniel went to the Lord in prayer. It was what Daniel did. Even good habits are hard to break!
Daniel's enemies used his good habits against him.
What things do others know about us? Would we be accused of being a Christian? Could we possible be arrested for honoring God in public if there were such a law? Reality says that there are more eyes upon us than simply those who do not like us! Others who are seeking peace for their lives are watching. Those lost in sin are in need of the Savior we serve. God is also seeking those who are willing to stand for Him!
Habits are hard to break . . . are you and I in the habit of sticking with God . . . even when it is not popular?

Friday, July 5, 2013

Free to Choose to Follow God

Among those who were chosen were some from Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego. But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. (Daniel 1:6-8)
We all the freedom to choose things in life. But not everything is good to have. Of our many choices, some may be unpopular . . . While it may not be sinful to be traditional, sociable, fashionable, or even popular, at times we have a bigger decision to make.
Our biggest challenge is to choose to follow God!
Daniel and his young friends were taken captive into a foreign land and trained to be leaders in this place called Babylon . . . a place of riches and opportunities if they played along. God had allowed them to be taken. Would it have been ok for them to play along and be good and obedient in order to simply survive? But Daniel met the challenge from God . . .
“Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.” So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days. (Daniel 1:12-14)
This request may have cost the boys and the guard their lives. Have you ever been faced with a challenge from God? Perhaps it went against your friends opinions or was not very popular with your classmates? Whom did you choose? What happened? What do you think happens to Daniel and his friends?
At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead. To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds. . . .so they entered the king’s service. (Daniel 1:15-19)

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

The Cost of Freedom . . .

“My brothers and sisters, you were chosen to be free. But don't use your freedom as an excuse to live in sin. Instead, serve one another in love.”(Galatians 5:13 )
What a price Christ paid for our freedom from sin! All the suffering, pain, mistreatment, embarrassment and humiliation; not to mention leaving the comforts of heaven to live in a sin-sick world and the give Himself over to such treatment…for His enemies…we sinners! Yes, he did it all for me, for you, and for anyone who will humble oneself and call on Jesus to save them from sin. In our recent history, many people have also sacrificed much for the freedoms we celebrate and often take for granted. Countless numbers of men and women have sacrificed their bodies and lives for our freedom in wars all over the world.
But it is not just the soldiers.
President Lincoln sacrificed his reputation and ultimately his life along with others in order to abolish the horror of slavery. A gentle lady by the name of Ms. Rosa Parks was tired and needed to sit down on a bus in Mobile, Alabama in 1955. Dr. Martin Luther King took up the charge for the freedoms of all citizens and eventually paid the ultimate price for those freedoms. Many lost their lives during the struggles of the late 1960’s in the cities throughout the U.S., including Senator Bobby Kennedy. These folks did not use their freedoms to sin or the lack of freedoms to inflict harm either. They chose a gentle yet persuasive manner to bring to light the transgressions of our society and were willing to pay whatever price necessary to bring about change. They did not back down to political pressure, verbal threats, or physical harm.
We are challenged by God’s Word to stand firm and unmovable.(1 Corinthians 15:58 )
We are told that God will go with us through the valleys (Psalm 23:4 )and just as He did with Daniel and his friends (Daniel 3:26-27 ), He will bring us through fiery trials and the fiercest enemies.
We have the liberty to sin, run, or hide. Yet, we as believers have the freedom and boldness to stand.
Do not be afraid to get involved. Do not be afraid to be called politically incorrect, unpopular, or strange! After all, we are a called out and peculiar people. (1 Peter 2:9 ) Call sin what it is . . . in love so others will come to know the Savior!
Stand my brothers and sisters in the liberty of God’s grace and mercy. Stand boldly clothed in the full armor of God. (Ephesians 6:10-18 ) Stand by faith. Stand on His promises. Stand together! Will we pay THE COST OF FREEDOM today? Yes, we can and yes, we will!

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Solid or Shaky Ground?

Those who do what is right are guided by their honest lives. But those who aren’t faithful are destroyed by their trickery.(Proverbs 11:3)
What do you remember about the earthquake August 23, 2011? Surprised? Shaken? Worried? We are surprised or shaken by things we do not expect. At times, this world shakes us. many people do not know where to turn when family gets sick ofr friends treat us badly. We place all our hope in the world, friends, or family.
But remember, the devil seeks to steal, kill, destroy . . . all through trickery! (John 10:10)He comes like a thief . . . trying to surprise or trick us.
We who know the Lord need to be guded by His promises and His words. We cannot be tricked by Satan!
Let's ask ourselves . . .
Are we guided by our beliefs in the Word of God and how God has been faithful to us, or will we give in to the lies of Satan? What stands between us and God today? What are we believing? Are we being tricked or believing the truth?
Are we standing on solid or shaky ground?

Sunday, June 30, 2013

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day . . . and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
What happens between the dash? What do we want people to say about us? Young or old, we all are thinking of our future! Whether it’s four days ahead, four years ahead, of forty years ahead . . . What will we do? How will we do it? Why will we do it? Life will bring fulfilled dreams and shattered dreams. We meet the best buddy ever. A friend decides someone else is his BFF. The cutest girl in eighth grade smiles at me. We get rejected at the school dance. Later on it may be a college or a date for the dance. Ups and downs . . . bad days and good days . . . it's life! This one thing, we who follow Christ, do know . . .
The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Timothy 4:18)
We all have a beginning and we all have an end. Only what we do for Christ within the dash will really matter!
So why not start NOW?????

Friday, June 28, 2013

Mind Games

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God . . . this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is . . . his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2)
Proper worship or reasonable worship refers to the Greek word logikos or logical worship. It is what is expected. God expects His children to offer themselves for His use every day! Not my will, but Your will God. It is what Jesus prayed in the Garden.
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
Jesus set the pace. He showed us how to live for God and God alone. How can we do such a thing? Verse two lets us know. We must begin to think differently! It is not about me! The world is ruled by the father of lies! He plays mind games with us all. We must surround ourselves with Godly influences in order to have a renewed mind; people, music, TV, friends, etc. What enters our minds controls our thoughts which in turn control our actions.
Where is your mind at today?

Thursday, June 27, 2013

The way we walk . . .

But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” The man asked him, “What is your name?” “Jacob,” he answered. Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.” Jacob said, “Please tell me your name.” But he replied, “Why do you ask my name?” Then, he blessed him there. So Jacob called the place Peniel saying, “It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.” The sun rose above him as he passed Peniel and he was limping because of his hip. Therefore to this day the Israelites do not eat the tendon attached to the socket of the hip, because the socket of Jacob’s hip was touched near the tendon. (Genesis 32:26-32)
Life is full of struggles! We wrestle with what to wear . . . what to eat. . . where to go . . . who to be friends with . . . etc. As we get older we begin to struggle with God.
Who are You God? What do You want me to do? Why is this or that happening? How can I be a CHRISTIAN in this world? Where are You God?
As we wrestle with God, let’s always remember His will is best for us (Jeremiah 29:11)! Never trust a man without a limp! HUH??? Well, if someone has never really struggled with God and knows what is like to experience God, they really do not know! He is walking alone . . . Israel, or Jacob, was a fighter but for all the wrong reasons. God had to redirect his energy and purpose. We all have gifts God wants to use, He must direct us however. It must be for His purposes in life.
Wrestle with God, not against Him. Allow Him to change the way we walk!

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Respect Authority!

“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone . . .” (Job 38:4-6)
We all have authority figures in our lives . . . parents, teachers, pastors, police, politicians, etc. We have many conversations with them in official and casual manners. But when they speak we must be careful to listen and follow their instruction!
Job came face-to-face with God and basically God said to Him, “Listen son, I made everything you have ever seen, so listen to me! What can you possibly say to Me?”
When the high priest Nicodemus did not understand what being born-again meant, Jesus questioned Him:
“You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? (John 3:10)
Just like a speeding ticket from the police, detention in school, or a punishment from parents, a conversation with God can bring us back to reality. We need authority to keep us in line and we need to respect authority! Knowing God is one thing . . . having daily conversations with Him is another! Do we know Him like we know our local policemen, our own parents, or even our favorite teachers? If we have difficulty understanding and obeying these authority figures, why would we be expected to respect a God we cannot see with our eyes? God has placed all authority over us . . . kings, law enforcement, teachers, and parents. Yet He is the ultimate authority. . .
Who are we to question Him?

Monday, June 24, 2013

A Summer "SCHOOL" lesson

Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” (Genesis 1:26)
The name commonly used for God in the Old Testament is the Hebrew word Elohim. It is also found in the singular form El and Elah. Whenever we find the English word God used in the Old Testament, it is a translation of this Hebrew word Elohim or one of its forms. The noun Elohim is plural but it is always used with a singular verb when it speaks of the true God. This indicates a unity and diversity within the nature of God. This unity and diversity is revealed in Scripture as the doctrine of the Trinity. God did something special when He made man. Just as Adam and all men are born, man has the opportunity to be born again. God breathed life into Adam and offers His breath of life to each of us through Jesus’ sacrificial death upon the cross! God is always God. His Spirit has been hovering around for all time and lives within every believer today. BUT . . .
Jesus is the difference between Christianity and all other faiths. He is THE WORD and THE LORD. He is the ONLY WAY to THE FATHER! He comes again as KING of kings and LORD of lords. . .THE LORD of the ARMIES! (Revelation 19:13-16)

Back to the basics . . .

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)
Just a very simple yet profound reminder today . . . God does not change! Just as He was in the beginning and how He was when speaking with the last living apostle John, is how He is today! He is still God and always will be God. There is no changing that. I am amazed that even from the distance of time, even the words remain so much the same! From the beginning of time, to Moses until just before the end of the first century, God was there. He is still here today and still speaking to us! he is consistent . . . He is God!
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. (John 1:1-2)
The challenge for us in this age is to be quiet enough to still hear from God. Do we have time to sit qietly and listen without the television, i-Pod, tablet, or i-phone? Can we simply sit still long enough listen as the writers of Scripture once did? Listen to what John said . . .
On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet . . . (Revelation 1:10)
John was in the Spirit . . . spending time alone with God . . . on one accord with Him so he could hear from God and understand what He was saying. Do we even do this on the Lord's day? When are we absolutely shut out from distractions to really be one with God?
Let's get back to the basics . . . making a deliberate time to be one with the Lord and be able to hear from the one who has been there since the beginning!

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Yes . . . YOU are special and wonderful!

You created the deepest parts of my being.You put me together inside my mother’s body. How you made me is amazing and wonderful.I praise you for that. What you have done is wonderful. I know that very well. None of my bones was hidden from you when you made me inside my mother’s body. That place was as dark as the deepest parts of the earth. When you were putting me together there, your eyes saw my body even before it was formed. You planned how many days I would live. You wrote down the number of them in your book before I had lived through even one of them God, your thoughts about me are priceless. No one can possibly add them all up. If I could count them, they would be more than the grains of sand. If I were to fall asleep counting and then wake up you would still be there with me. (Psalm 139:13-18)
So who would you rather be? Beyonce? Labron? RGIII? Well . . . you CAN'T!!!! Yet none of them can be you either! Yes . . . YOU are special and wonderful! We may all wish we were somehow different . . . more like someone else . . . but the fact is that God has made each of very special and not even twins are really alike! Each of us has a special plan laid out by God.(Jeremiah 29:11)
This plan is to SUCCEED . . . not fail. It does not depend on the type of hair we have or how good our jump is or is not. It depends upon our heart!
God hand-made each of us from the moment we were conceived. He has even given us a number of days to live! WHY NOT trust Him with His plan on how to live this life? What we do between the dashes (born----died)is up to us.
God believes we are special. DO YOU BELIEVE IT?

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

A Proven General . . . A Confident and Prepared Soldier!

A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd;I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell (return)in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23:1-6)
In other words . . . .
The Lord is indeed the Lord of the Armies . . . the Undefeated One and One to Come in Battle. I know he has me in His hands . . . protecting me and giving me rest in this battle. he strengthens me and restores me when I am weakened and near giving up. Yet even when I am at my lowest, I do not have to fear anything. Why? God is with me!!!! He will never leave me!!!He leads me and guides me through rough terrain and land mines!!! Even when I face my toughest battles, I can feel His presence. . . already preparing the Victory Feast! He gives me confidence. He assures me. In fact, i am brimming over with confidence . . . in my Savior! I am a confident and prepared soldier indeed!
One day . . . I will be with Him. That is my goal and my future! It gets me through . . . .

Sacrificial Leadership

“‘What if you don't say anything at this time? Then help for the Jews will come from another place. But you and your family will die. Who knows? It's possible that you became queen for a time just like this.’ Then Esther sent a reply to Mordecai. She said, ‘Go. Gather together all of the Jews who are in Susa. And fast for my benefit. Don't eat or drink anything for three days. Don't do it night or day. I and my attendants will fast just as you do. Then I'll go to the king. I'll do it even though it's against the law. And if I have to die, I'll die’.” (Esther 4:14-16 NIrV)
The Jewish queen was willing to put her life on the line to save many of her people. She could have just quietly sat back and hoped someone else would take the risk. She could have protected herself and her family. She could have kept her heritage secret and hoped to be spared. But Mordecai boldly warned her, her family would be discovered and die also. Someone would stand up and help the Jewish people. Why not Queen Esther?
Why not this time…this moment…A TIME JUST LIKE THIS?
In reality, we put our life on the line every day in this world. We never know what we will face in day-to-day living. • The question is this: Who are we living for? So many need so much help today, yet we need so much for our own family! • Are we willing to lay everything on the line for God’s will? • Are we willing to risk it all to please Him over everyone else?
How can WE make a difference?
God places us where we are for A TIME JUST LIKE THIS! There is a need right in front of our eyes, in our neighborhood, in our job, in summer camp. Even though it may take sacrifice; even though it may be against what we want to do, we MUST do what God calls us to do! What is it God is pressing upon your heart? A TIME JUST LIKE THIS requires faith, sacrifice, and character. Are we willing to step up as the Queen did and say: “I'll do it . . .”
Is God not worth it? These are the times to make bold steps in life!

Monday, June 17, 2013

A Simple Question . . .

There is a question of who is God’s child and who is His creation…it shows in how we live and why we live!
“But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is your life because of righteousness. Moreover if the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will also make your mortal bodies alive through his Spirit who lives in you. So then, brothers and sisters, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh (for if you live according to the flesh, you will die), but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:10-14 NET BIBLE)
What or Who drives us? . . . The Spirit of God!
So it is a real simple question. . .…who is your DADDY?

Jesus Prayed for YOU and ME

“‘I am not praying only on their behalf, but also on behalf of those who believe in Me through their testimony, that they all would be one, just as You, Father, are in me and I am in You … so that the world will know that You sent Me …’” (John 17:20-23)
Isn’t it a good feeling to know that people are praying for you? Doesn’t it feel comforting when a person comes up to you and says, “I’ve been praying for you?” Even more so, it’s great to be able to respond, “I know you have . . . I have felt it!” The prayers of God’s people do accomplish much, especially in a day when we face so many challenges to our faith, our family, and our future. Prayer still changes things and can move God’s heart to compassion, mercy, and intercession, just as it did with Moses, Abraham, and others.
But remember this: JESUS PRAYED FOR YOU AND ME too!
That blows me away. Think back; here was Jesus in the garden, about to be arrested, beaten, and crucified for and because of you and me, yet He stopped and prayed for not just His disciples then, but for those of us who would come to know Him because of them … YOU and ME! Wow! Be careful to note WHAT Jesus prayed for on our behalf. He desired for us to BE ON ONE ACCORD, just as He and the Father related to one another, so the world would SEE God in us and believe on Him as well. He didn’t pray for our happiness, for our health, or for our stuff, He prayed for our unity with one another and with God. As we begin a new week, let’s examine how we have honored the Lord concerning His prayer request. Have we been on one accord within the home, within our church community, and as a body of believers? I can honestly say we’ve blown it!
How can the world see God in us when we are so much like the world?
We have so much work to do to become a set-apart people … sanctified unto His work and glory. As JESUS PRAYED FOR YOU AND ME, may our prayer in return be that we DO OUR PART to become one and allow the Spirit within us to light the dark world with His glory so that they may know that God did indeed send Him!

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Steps to Choosing God . . .

Anyone who is not with me is against me . . . (Matthew 12:30)
We are familiar with this verse from Joshua as he challenged the people of Israel before his death. But what about you and me?
But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)
Even after we choose Christ, how in the world can we possible make the right choices to stay close to the Savior . . . to get closer day by day as we work out our faith? Here are some practical steps:
Blessed is the one who does not WALKin step with the wicked or STANDin the way that sinners take or SITin the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. (Psalm 1:1-2)
*We cannot choose to even casually hang out with the wrong crowd! (walking along with them) *This will lead to a more permanent relationship with them. (standing with them) *As more time goes by, we then become so comfortable hanging with the wrong crowd that we are known as one of the boys . . . one of the gang . . . (sitting with them in practices and beliefs). We have choices to make as children, teens and adults. What video do we play? What shows do we watch? Which folks do we choose to be our close friends and associates? What activities do we choose to participate in at work, in the neighborhood, and within social networks? Paul warns us some things may be lawful and even good, but not always beneficial! We all have choices to make but the consequences are real . . . Godly decisions bring blessings and choosing to be like the world brings destruction.
. . .whatever they (the righteous)do prospers. . . (Psalm 1:3)
. . .the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction. (Psalm 1:5-6)
There is a downward spiral to sin . . . Satan will leave us to rot! However, each step we take with the Savior will bring us closer to what He has for us . . .and He promises to never leave us and to be with us along the way! Choose the steps to choosing God see what great things God has in store . . .

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Let's play "You make the choice!"

Let's play "You make the choice!" Nationals or Orioles? Ravens or Redskins? Redskins or Cowboys? Heat or Spurs? God or the Devil?
But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)
Joshua has taken on the enormous task of leading the people of Israel into the Promised Land. He succeeded Moses and was now and old man. As Joshua is about to die, he gives a charge to the people of Israel. He sums up all God had done through him in this chapter (Joshua chapter 24). God is willing to do great things in your life and mine. He is waiting for us to commit however. Just like we have to make choices in so many things in life, we have to choose God and commit to His ways. There is no half-way! We can get really crazy when it comes to sports. I grew up an athlete and lived for sports! I am still a FAN-atic! Just ask my son and my wife . . or look in my basement!
We cannot be half for the Redskins and half for the Cowboys. A fan does not cheer for both teams when they compete. We must decide whom we will follow and support!
One does not vote for both candidates in an election!
A soldier cannot fight for both sides of the war . . . that would be ridiculous!
So they had to make a choice. Once they chose God, Joshua reminded them there was one more thing they had to do . . . throw away the other "stuff"!
“Now then,” said Joshua, “throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the Lord, the God of Israel.”(Joshua 24:23)
Are you willing to not only choose God, but also do away with all the other distractions? We cannot have it both ways!
CHOOSE TODAY!!!!

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

His plan for us brings us real joy!

If the Lord doesn’t build a house, the work of its builders is useless. If the Lord doesn’t watch over a city, it’s useless for those on guard duty to stand watch over it. It’s useless for you to work from early morning until late at night just to get food to eat. God provides for those he loves even while they sleep.(Psalm 127: 1-2)
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO MAKE YOUR LIFE COUNT? HOW CAN YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THIS WORLD? Yesterday we discussed INTEGRITY. Today we will discuss POTENTIAL . . .How doing the right thing all the time can lead us into living a life that really matters . . . fulfilling God's purpose for our lives!
What does it matter if we are a basketball star like Lebron James if we do not know God or what He desires from us? Psalm 127 tells us that we are living in vain . . . with no purpose . . . not living up to what God has in mind for us!
God tells us that He has a special plan for each one of us (Jeremiah 29:11). It may be to become a basketball star or a football star. It may be to be a doctor, a lawyer, or even a pastor or missionary. Doing God's will and living out His plan for us brings us real joy . . .more joy than a Super Bowl win or winning the NBA championship?
But we first must KNOW God?
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God . . . (John 1:12)
What are your plans? Have you checked with God about those plans? First of all . . . DO YOU KNOW HIM?

Monday, June 10, 2013

All About Integrity . . .becoming more like Jesus.

We know that we have come to know God if we obey his commands. Suppose someone says, “I know him.” But suppose that person does not do what God commands. Then that person is a liar and is not telling the truth. But if anyone obeys God’s word, then God’s love is truly made complete in that person. Here is how we know we belong to him. Those who claim to belong to him must live just as Jesus did.(1 John 2:3-6)
Integrity . . . what we do when no one is watching . . . when no one is around to see us . . . when there is no applause or accolades. Living according to the will of God involves obedience and repentance, not perfection. Sinless? Proboably not!
" . . .for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
However, as a follower of Jesus Christ, we are to desire to sin less and less. Many will not come to Christ because they have convinced themselves through the lies of Satan that they will never be good enough. Then there are professed believers who constantly live in sin by excusing their actions with the statement, "I'm not perfect!" Both situations are saddening. A follower of Jesus Christ confesses sin in order to receive the atoning graces of Jesus through His death and resurrection. The Holy Spirit convicts us to live for Christ and equips us to do so. It is nothing we do by ourselves, nor can do if we tried! We are saved by grace alone.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
We strive to live in obedience to the Word of God. When we fall, we quickly seek repentance. It is a process of working out our salvation! It is a constant relationship with the person of Jesus Christ and His Spirit within us. There should be conviction within our hearts and a progression of our faith to become more like Jesus with each passing month and year. The good news is God is there to help us all the time!
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.(1 John 1:9)

Friday, June 7, 2013

Investment Advice

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-21)
Our investments reflect our heart. Where we store up is what we believe in most. Is it the stock market . . . retirement account . . . children's college funds, CD's . . (all very good things)? However, do we invest more in the things of God, since we do trust Him to meet our needs as we serve Him? Our investments can reach far more areas then our immediate family. We must take the time to assess our portfolios. Are we diverse or is all our investment in one area? Which area gives the most profit and is most secure?
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. (Mathew 6:31-34)

Thursday, June 6, 2013

From Struggles to Success!

Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things that it should be done so to me; for it would be better for me to die than that anyone should make my boasting void. For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel! For if I do this willingly, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a stewardship. What is my reward then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel.(1 Corinthians 9:14-18)
Despite the pay, it is my duty to serve God. Accepting His call to missions was NOT an option in 1997 and it is NOT an option to give up in 2013! God rewards me for what I do in obedience to Him, not in doing what is comfortable for me. He promises to meet my needs. However, I must realize that my needs are not my wants and not everyone will understand but God at times! So my focus has to be on God's will, not mine. I am always learning how to adjust my wants to God's will. I must admit, sometimes it is a daily adjustment. However, the more I choose God, the better the consequences! He does have a plan for me to succeed after all! (Jeremiah 29:11)
Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.(1 Corinthians 9:26-27)

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

The DESIRE to give . . . not DEMAND!

And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you . . . see that you also excel in this grace of giving.(2 Corinthians 8:1-7)
God loves a cheerful giver . . . we all know that is true. So then we are to give because we enjoy giving, not because we are demanded to give. It is basic Christianity: God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, not for us to keep for ourselves but rather to share with others. If God demonstrated His love for us by giving His best, should we not be such givers? Many believers feel there is a limit to giving. "I give my ten percent", we hear from so many. The tithe was a tax ,remember, not an offering. It was given out of obligation, not love or gratitude. It is much like the way we pay tax on everyday items without complaining or on April 15 as we turn in our tax reports to the IRS. No one likes to do it, but we must! As a body of believers, we are to give beyond the tithe to meet the needs of the Body. This does not mean simply the Church, but the needs of Christians locally and abroad (missions). We need to first be aware of the needs and then do our part to met them . . . in love and out of a grateful heart. God has supplied our needs and we are to trust Him to enable us to in turn meet others needs. One day, as we are in need, others (perhaps the very ones we have helped) will met our needs. it is how God planned for His people. We are blessed by God to bless others, so they in turn will see His love within us and want to glorify Him as well.
At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need.(2 Corinthians 8:14)

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

It's my responsibility to support missions . . .

Questions and answers as we enter into our summer months of fundraising for our ministry: Q: Should missionaries be supported “full-time” or have a secular job? A: Both ways are biblical, but it would seem to be preferable to have full support, unless the mission itself is part-time. Jesus, it seems, was no longer a carpenter after His full-time ministry began, and Paul abandoned tent making when he received enough gift(s) to live on. Q: Should missionaries be supported by individuals or churches? A: In the New Testament, churches were simply groups of individuals. The idea of being supported by an institution instead of by people who personally know the missionary is foreign to the New Testament.
This is my defense to those who sit in judgment on me. Don’t we have the right to food and drink? Don’t we have the right to take a believing wife along with us, as do the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas? Or is it only I and Barnabas who lack the right to not work for a living? Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its grapes? Who tends a flock and does not drink the milk? Do I say this merely on human authority? Doesn’t the Law say the same thing? For it is written in the Law of Moses: “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.” Is it about oxen that God is concerned? Surely he says this for us, doesn’t he? Yes, this was written for us, because whoever plows and threshes should be able to do so in the hope of sharing in the harvest. If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you? If others have this right of support from you, shouldn’t we have it all the more?(1 Corinthians 9:3-12)
Comments: Missionaries should be supported by sources other than just those they minister to (Acts 18:3, 5). (See also 1 Thessalonians 2:9 and Philippians 4:16.) Missionaries should not be a financial burden to those they disciple. If they depend on the people they minister to for support, they will likely be, or be seen as, a burden. Hence many missionaries are continually at odds with their local boards or committees over fund raising. Additional funding might come from a job or other supporters. Paul utilized both, although Jesus does not seem to have had a secular job after His ministry began. In any case, the missionaries were not dependent on the support of their disciples. Missionaries should remind people to support missionaries (1 Corinthians 9:11-14). Paul reminded the Corinthians, If we sowed spiritual things in you, is it too much if we should reap material things from you? (1 Corinthians 9:11). This is not to say the missionaries should demand support or somehow pressure people to give to them (v. 12). On the contrary, the missionary should go without the support of anyone who doesn’t desire to give to his ministry. Reminding people of the ministry of giving is part of the missionaries’ job of discipleship. (5) Missionaries should be supported by people wishing to participate in their ministry (Philippians 1:5, 7; 4:15-18; 3 John 7-8). In Philippians Paul thanked them for their abundant gifts which they sent him more than once, while he was in Thessalonica (the town he went to after Philippi--Philippians 4:16). But they also sent him a gift while he was in Corinth, which he says fully supplied my need (2 Corinthians 11:9). Paul had some substantial contributors in Macedonia, especially in Philippi, whose gifts allowed him to be able to stop making tents and begin devoting himself completely to the Word, solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ (Acts 18:3-5). We might guess Lydia was a large contributor, since she appears to be wealthy and the church met in her home (Acts 16:13-15, 40). But whoever was involved, their motive was to participate in Paul’s ministry--which Paul said he desired because of the profit which increases for your account (Philippians 4:17). So giving has a profit motive--heavenly profit for earthly financial participation in the Gospel (Matthew 6:19). (6) Missionaries should besupported

Monday, June 3, 2013

Missionary Support . . . a view from God's Word: Agree or Disagree?

This is not my normal post, but as I embark on a summer of bi-vocational work, fundraising for our missionary support and our teen retreat in July, I thought it might be nice to look at the biblical view of supporting missionaries . . . . 1) Missionaries should have a team of people who want to support them (Luke 8:1-4). Jesus was (among other things, of course) a missionary. He did not need anyone's financial support. Anyone who can turn water into wine and feed thousands of people from a few loaves and fishes does not need support. Yet Jesus had a group of people who traveled with Him, consisting of (1) the 12 apostles (and sometimes the apostles’ wives - 1 Corinthians 9:5), (2) some women He healed, and (3) some wealthy women. Jesus andthe apostles received gifts from people contributing to their support out of their private means (Luke 8:3) (2) Missionaries should be supported by the people they minister to (Luke 10:1-7). (See also 1 Timothy 5:17-18; 1 Corinthians 9:9-12; and Galatians 6:6.) The New Testament is very clear on this, repeating the phrase of the Mosaic Law, you shall not muzzle the ox while he is threshing (Deuteronomy 25:4). Jesus said, the laborer is worthy of his wages (Luke 10:7). Paul emphasized this to Timothy (1 Timothy 5:18). There is a sense in which this is more a principle of paying than giving, but it is definitely a basic part of missionary support. It's not the only source, of course, since many recipients of missionary ministry are not capable of much support. Nevertheless, they should share some of what they have with the missionaries. (3) Missionaries should be supported by sources other than just those they minister to (Acts 18:3, 5). (See also 1 Thessalonians 2:9 and Philippians 4:16.) Missionaries should not be a financial burden to those they disciple. If they depend on the people they minister to for support, they will likely be, or be seen as, a burden. Hence many missionaries are continually at odds with their local boards or committees over fund raising. Additional funding might come from a job or other supporters. Paul utilized both, although Jesus does not seem to have had a secular job after His ministry began. In any case, the missionaries were not dependent on the support of their disciples. (4) Missionaries should remind people to support missionaries (1 Corinthians 9:11-14). Paul reminded the Corinthians, If we sowed spiritual things in you, is it too much if we should reap material things from you? (1 Corinthians 9:11). This is not to say the missionaries should demand support or somehow pressure people to give to them (v. 12). On the contrary, the missionary should go without the support of anyone who doesn’t desire to give to his ministry. Reminding people of the ministry of giving is part of the missionaries’ job of discipleship. (5) Missionaries should be supported by people wishing to participate in their ministry (Philippians 1:5, 7; 4:15-18; 3 John 7-8). In Philippians Paul thanked them for their abundant gifts which they sent him more than once, while he was in Thessalonica (the town he went to after Philippi--Philippians 4:16). (* copied from www.relationalconcepts.org)

Holy Week '24 . . . be used gladly!

Do everything without grumbling or arguing , so that you may become blameless and pure , “children of God without fault in a warped and cro...