I resolve to____________________ in 2016

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your heart, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:37-39)

Another year ending and a new one beginning: Have you made any RESOLUTIONS? 

Everyone does it. I need to lose weight. I need to save money. I need to get a better job. I need to get in touch with my family. 

As I read above, I see something that could not only make my new year better, but would actually make me and everyone around me better: love God . . . love people . . . love myself. 

If I can commit to these basic truths, I believe it will be a better year. 

Will you too make these your RESOLUTIONS?

Resolutions for Teens?

For all the promises of God in Him are "Yes", and in Him "Amen", to the glory of God through us. Now He Who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God Who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. (2 Corinthians 1:20-21)

Most of us received a gift or gifts this CHRISTmas. Why were they special? Who gave them? If you like the gift, WHY? Was it the gift or the giver that made it special? As we ponder the New Year, everyone is tempted to make resolutions. 

Let's compare our resolutions to God's promises. What is the difference? God does not waiver! His "YES" is always YES and His "NO" is always NO! He keeps all His promises! 

God's promises always fulfill our wildest dreams and desires . . .but we must wait! The Bible tells us to love God with ALL our heart, soul, and mind. This may be the chance to make the best decision we have ever made; to love God totally! 

It has to start some day. What better day than today?Will you do that  . . . today?  

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. (Philippians 3:12)

We can never out wait God

The strength to go on produces character.  Character produces  hope. And hope will never let us down. (Romans 5:4-5)

There is much to be said about patience. . .waiting on God. He never let's us down. He is always right. Waiting is hard for us in this day of fast everything. 

But wait I say upon the Lord!

CHRISTmas Eve Reminders

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfected of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

CHRISTmas Eve 2015. . . Hustle . . . Bustle . . . Racing here and there for last minutes gifts and other items. The rush is on. Racing against time . . . but whose time? We all are in a race, yet it not to the stores, the relatives homes, or even to church. Our race is life! If we are truly blessed,we will get 70-80 years on this earth as we know it. However, life goes on beyond that. 

For the believer, life goes on in the presence of our God and Savior. For those who choose not to believe, life is extended in hell, where there is wailing and gnashing of teeth the Bible tells us.  

In this season, when people ask if you believe, we tend to think of the jolly fat man who gifts to all. I have another One in mind however, this CHRISTmas Season: Do YOU believe in the One who laid His life down for all who choose to believe?  

Today, choose to run the race of a CHRISTian and follow the One who is also coming . . . Maybe not this evening, but soon!

THE Reason!

Jesus answered and said to her, "If you knew the gift of God, and Who is it Who says to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water." (John 4:10)

Shopping, traffic jams, fighting for parking spots, crossing off the gift lists . . . All part of the CHRISTmas Season. But should it be so? With all the fuss over the season, all of us put the REASON on the back burner at times. Even the most devout of believers forget why we give gifts. Let's remember what our Savior said to the Samaritan woman once again:

"If you knew the gift of God . . ." 

If we could all only remember the real REASON we rush out for the perfect gift for the ones we love. It should be to reflect the love God has toward us. I give a gift because I want to reflect the love God has for me toward others. This is my motivation. This is my REASON. 

God so loved me that it causes me to so love others. So the cost of the gift does not really matter as much as the love reflected in the gift. Even if I cannot purchase a gift, I can offer a service, some time, even a simple phone call or letter. 

I know we all say it and write it, but year after year CHRIST disappears more and more  from the Season.  Let's really remember the REASON behind CHRISTmas this year!

Hope . . .

"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, STAND FIRM. Let NOTHING move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is NOT in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:55-58)

I write this with a heavy heart this morning thinking of a close brother who has lost his adult son tragically while on travel. However, it does remind me that this CHRISTmas is really not about a BABY, but about a SAVIOR who went to His death for our sins and then powerfully took up His own body and walked out from the grave to grant us eternal life with Him! 

Though physical death may take us all one day, we are eternally alive in Christ if we trust Him while we are yet living. The GIFT of salvation through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ is what we must GIVE away, above any other gift, this CHRISTmas. I offer encouragement not just to my brother and friend, but to all who may be grieving or suffering this HOLYday Season. 

To the BELIEVERS, death is a temporary set back leading to an eternal residence with our Lord and Savior. In order to have a reunion of friends and families, we must decide TODAY: Have YOU made the decision for your eternal residence? I REST with my SAVIOR this CHRISTmas and for eternity! 

Merry CHRISTmas . . . despite the pain, we can have JOY . . . One day we will celebrate together again.

Old Words. . . Timely Words. . . Real Words. . .Effective Words!

In that day says the Lord, I will assemble the lame, I will gather the outcast, and those whom I have afflicted; I will make the lame a remnant, and the outcast a strong nation; so the Lord will reign over them in Mount Zion from now on, even forever. . . . . But you Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from old, from everlasting . . . (Micah 4:6-8, 5:2)

God's promises remain . . .

I am learning to place more meaning on Old Testament words, prophesies, and promises. Growing up in my CHRISTian walk, I became comfortable reading the New Testament and treating the Old Testament as God's Word, but not very relevant. I guess as I grow older, I recognize the power of promises and legacies. I realize the promises God has fulfilled not only in Israels's life, but mine as well. I also realize the legacy I must leave behind as a CHRISTian husband, father, grandfather, and man. 

Though I have fallen short too numerous times to recall, I must stay grounded. I must remain faithful. I must be humble. I have to remember from where God rescued me and never go back. I am determined to finish well so those I leave behind can say I was faithful to the One who is faithful to me. 

I will never be ashamed of where I was, who I am, and what God is doing with me! 

Never a BREAK from the Lord

I will lift up my eyes to the hills, from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord . . .He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper; The Lord is your shade at your right hand. . . The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. (Psalm 121)

As my students break for CHRISTmas and the New Year HOLYdays, this is my prayer for them and all our staff. . . 

Lord keep us mindful of You and keep our trust in You. You alone are our Provider and Protector. Thank You for all You have done for us, even keeping us from dangers we never even knew were present. As we celebrate Your birth, encourage us to remind others that You indeed are coming again. Live in and through us over this break and bring us back together again renewed in strength and vigor to learn of You but more importantly to live for You!

Merry CHRISTmas everyone!

CHRISTmas Challenges

Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to call him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sin . . . When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name JESUS. (Matthew 1:20-25)

Joseph was confused. Here he was engaged to a wonderful young woman and ready to move on with what he planned to be a wonderful life. Then he heard the bad news. She was pregnant! The child was not his. They had not been together physically. Why this Lord? Why to me? What kind of woman was this Mary anyway? What am I to do? 

He received all the answers to his questions as the Lord's angel revealed the news to him while he slept. One thing was for sure, Joseph trusted the Lord enough where he was not up all night worrying! Once he awakened from receiving the news Joseph, did what he was told. We do not read of any wavering, just obedience and trust. 

What if we could be so obedient to our Lord? What if we could be so trusting? Joseph lost no sleep worrying. He even stayed resting throughout the dream, continuing in sleep and when he woke up, he simply did what the Lord told him to do. We don't read of panic, stress, or unrest. Just trust and obedience . . . 

As a husband, father, son, and brother, all I want for CHRISTmas is to be like Joseph; trusting and obeying God with my life and family!

It's the most___________ time of the year . . .

What is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You take care of him? You have made Him a little lower than the angels; You have crowned Him with glory and honor, and set Him over the works of Your hands. You have put  things in subjection under His feet. . . . Therefore in all things He has been made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining  to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted. (Hebrews 2:6-8,17-18)

Sadness . . . Disappointment . . . Separation . . . Illness . . . Death . . . All these things do not stay away during the CHRISTmas Season. 

They arrive just as do the relatives, friends, shopping trips, meal preparations, and oh yes, the financial costs! We live in a world where the celebrations are not void of disaster.    Bad things happen during good times. Not so pleasant memories arise right in the middle of the most joyous occasions. 

But thank God, for the CHRISTian, we have a Savior, a Friend right beside us who has been through it all and is ready and willing to not simply assist us but also to make a way through the situation. He will allow us to enjoy the festivities despite the not-so-pleasant memories or challenging circumstances. 

As He walks us through the valleys, I pray we can experience the JOY He brings to our world even this CHRISTmas Season!

A Small but Significant City

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times. (Micah 5:2)

O little town of Bethlehem . . . The "house of bread". The shepherds still keep watch there today. A small town now a place ruled by Palestinian police where the Nativity church hosts vendors and visitors alike. Yet it was prophesied by Micah in the eight century B.C. of a Savior to be born in this relatively small town of no more than one thousand people.

Never think you are too small or too insignificant for God to use you. At this CHRISTmas time, we too just might be a "small, unknown, insignificant" person in many eyes, yet God can and will use us. We simply must be ready and available. We never know when He will put His finger upon us and say, "Now is your time, My child." None of us are insignificant in our Father's eyes. We all have a purpose and a reason. 

The difference in being used and left on the shelf is  in the preparation. Are we ready? Are we willing? Are we available? Will we be a silent star or a shining light? It's up to us! 

Come and see . . . Go and tell!

For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. (Luke 2:11-12)

A very simple, yet profound statement, wouldn't you say? The message was given to some very plain and lowly people as well. Shepherds were not the most highly regarded of the day back during the birth of Jesus. They were not the members of the Sanhedrin or the tax collectors. They were not the members of the Roman government. They were simple shepherds, making their watch over there flocks during the night. 

Jesus still comes today in the simplest ways to the most common of people. He is not only for those with money or those dressed in suits. He is reaching out to us all . . . young and old, rich and poor. He has the same message today that He brought when He was born: Salvation!

What would our reaction have been had we received such a message? Would we have run to the baby or put it off for another day? Would we have too occupied with jobs and other obligations to see the baby? The shepherds "came with haste" to see Jesus and "made widely known" what they saw and heard concerning the baby. Are we eager to visit with Jesus today and do we tell others what we know of Him? 

Maybe we should take some notes from the shepherds?

No Other Option

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ Who lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

Once saved by the sacrificial grace of God, we cannot go back to our old ways. If we do, it makes the death of Christ all in vain. If I think I can obtain anything good on my own, I am making Christ and His Word to be a lie. 

All I have I owe to Christ. All I am today is because of Christ and His mercy towards me. I have no choice but to strive to live by His Word and to humbly accept what He has for me. I cannot allow this world or anyone in it to dictate my life. 

There is NO OTHER OPTION!

Knowing the Enemy, Knowing God

And Hezekiah received the letter from the hand of the messengers and read it, and Hezekiah went up to the house of the Lord, and spread it before the Lord. Then Hezekiah prayed before the Lord, and said, "O Lord God of Israel, the One who dwells between the cherubim, You are God, You alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. Incline Your ear, O Lord, and hear; open Your eyes O Lord, and see; and hear the words of Sennacherib, which he has sent to reproach the Living God . . .therefore I will put a hook in your nose and My bridal in your lips, and I will turn you back by the way which you came. . . . For I will defend this city, to save it, for My own sake and for My servant David's sake. (2 Kings 19:14-34)

As we struggle, not just against flesh and blood, but also and more importantly against spiritual powers, we must search the Scriptures and see and experience how many of God's warriors faced these battles. 

Here King Hezekiah was facing threats from a mighty force who had previously swept through towns and cities, destroying everything in his wake. But Sennacherib now faced a foe whom he had never fought before; not King Hezekiah, but GOD! King Hezekiah knew in Whom to turn. 

God will not be mocked. He will not be disgraced. His children will be protected. When in battle, remember it is not our fight, but the Lord's. 

Do all you can possibly do physically, but leave the rest to God. He has been, He is, and He will be VICTORIOUS!!!!

I hear you . . .

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:26-27)

Many times we forget as believers Who we are talking to in prayer. Yes, we have learned to pray in the Name of JESUS to our FATHER in heaven. However, there is the Spirit of God living within us! Seldom do we address Him by name. Seldom do we seek His advice and listen to His guidance. 

Now I know Father, Son, and Spirit are one. Don't get me wrong. But if we would simply embrace the One already with us . . . ready and willing to assist, to explain, to guide, to comfort . . . how much more equipped would we be?  

If we would only realize the One we seek is right within us 24/7 how much more powerful would our lives be? I have been focusing upon  listening to God lately. Do I hear His voice? Am I quiet enough to recognize it? Am I limiting my voice in prayer to hear from God or am I simply talking way too much? 

I just do not want to hear from God, but obey Him, rest in Him, be pleased in doing His will. It is not enough to talk to Him, but I want to hear from Him and be obedient to His voice, His will. 

What about you?

Against all odds . . .

Give ear to my words O Lord, consider my meditation. Give heed to the voice of my cry, my King and my God, for to You I will pray. My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up. For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, nor shall evil dwell with You . . .for You O Lord will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield. (Psalm 5)

When is the last time you prayed for yourself? The psalmist David often found himself surrounded by the enemy; physically, spiritually, and emotionally. He had run to hide in the caves and even feigned craziness to hide among his enemies. Yet he knew in Whom to turn. 

"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?" (Psalm 139:7)

God cares when it seems no one else is concerned. He cares when it seems to all be going haywire. He cares when it seems as though the entire world is against you. God cares. God knows . . . God loves you and me! Trust Him with your concerns. Trust Him with YOU!

That time of year . . .

. . . Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. (Romans 12:12-14)

This is a challenging time of year. Not everyone is joyous. Not everyone is full of CHRISTmas spirit. Many are depressed, suffering from memories of loved ones recently gone or from relational struggles. Many are lonely, alone, and in need. 

These are the times when God's people must look above their own needs and seek others to assist, to encourage, to love. Even if we are struggling, we must look to others to give. It is what Christ would have us to do. As we meet others' needs, our needs diminish. 

Rejoice in the coming Savior. Be patient, knowing He sees our struggles and knows our pain. Stay in prayer and be a light in the darkness!

 

Worship anyway!

O Lord, God of my salvation, I have cried out day and night before You. Let my prayer come before You; incline Your ear to my cry. For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to the grave. . . Lord, I have called daily upon You; I have stretched out my hands to You. . . But to You I have cried out O Lord, and in the morning my prayer comes before You. . . Loved one and friend You have put far from me, and my acquaintances into darkness. (Psalm 88)

When there is pain in the offering . . . When worship seems more like work . . . This is when it means the most. I thank God for the ones who still encourage and still cause me to press on . . . Praise God anyway!

It is SONday!!!!!!!

Remember . . .

But Jesus said to them, "They do not need to go away. You give then something to eat." And they said to Him, "We have here only five loaves and two fish." He said, "Bring them to Me.". . . (Matthew 14:18)

Jesus meets every need, even when things seem impossible. As we look back over time, we can all remember a time when we thought we would never make it, yet we did. It wasn't us, it was the Lord. 

Think back . . . Thank Him today for what He has done and will do!

He is faithful!!!

The Judas In Me

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still SINNERS, Christ died for us. . . for if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. (Romans 5:8-11)

Judas had the opportunity to not sin. Yet he chose to betray the Lord for a few pieces of silver. We often wonder why he did it or why the Lord allowed him to do it. Yet do we ever wonder why we betray the Lord? Yes, we betray Him every day for a job, a friendship, a habit . . . simple choices!

Yet while we still SIN, He still offers grace! He still offers forgiveness. He still offers His hand of reconciliation! Rather than look at Judas as some horrible piece of less than human flesh, perhaps we can see ourselves in his actions. 

What do we find ourselves so lured by that it keeps us from really knowing Jesus? What is keeping us in the shadows rather than in deep intimate relationship with the Savior? I know I can't think too highly of myself. I have failed too numerous times in my walk with Jesus to worry about Judas. 

We all have a bit of Judas lurking inside. But we have time to change . . . .

Make the Impossible Possible

Moreover, by them (the Lord's laws) Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward . . . Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Strength and my  Redeemer. (Psalm 19: 11,14)

God is all powerful, all knowing, and ever present. Most of us can agree on these facts I believe. His ways are perfect. He never errors. He never fails. Though His Laws and His guidelines may seem difficult, they are in fact attainable and the rewards far outweigh the disappointments we receive when we do indeed fall short.  

Following God's direction far exceed the momentary joys we get from sin for sure! If we would only wait . . . hold on . . . God is there for us! Many times we simply convince ourselves that we cannot do it. We just can't make the right choice. It is too difficult. Yet God is able. He provides His Spirit within each and every believer to guide us and even live through us. He also provides so many other weapons and tools to use . . . Other believers, devotionals, the local church, the internet . . . 

Just as we seek out sin, we can seek out the things that are noble, just, trustworthy, and God-pleasing. It begins with prayer . . . simple heart-wrenching conversations with the Father. He stands ready and willing to equip us with every piece of armor we need for the day, even for the moment! 

Try God!

Motivation to Do What?

A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, the simple pass on and are punished. (Proverbs 27:12)

Decision-making can be tough, especially for one making every effort to follow God and to please Him. Many times, what looks like the right decision is not always the best decision. Often the least popular decision is the best for all concerned. 

What decisions are you facing today; friendships, memberships, academics, travel plans? Some may seem rather small or insignificant at the moment, but in time these decisions may be life changing . . . even life-destroying! I am of the belief lately that the smallest decisions lead to big results. 

Some thoughts to consider before making a final decision. . . . 

Seek biblical wisdom; gather facts; don't be hasty; check motives; learn from the past; seek wise counsel; check the warning signs; weigh the various outcomes; examine your integrity before God; how would I better impact the Kingdom?

Tic Toc . . . Tic Toc . . .

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with THANKSGIVING, let your requests be made known to God; and the PEACE of GOD, which surpasses ALL understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

It's that time of year . . . No, not for making the Christmas list and mailing it off to Santa, but to begin to wonder and worry if we can get it all completed in time. The year is winding down, the weather is turning colder, and time is getting short. 

Has this been done . . . Have I completed that . . . Will I have time for those things . . . Can I make this or that event??????? 

There always seems to be more things to accomplish yet not enough hours or days to complete the tasks. This is when we learn how to trust God and leave everything else at the cross. We seek His wisdom and do what we can humanly do, then leave the rest to God. We cannot ever please everyone or do everything that is required of us. 

We have to cheat something Pastor Andy Stanley has written. What will cheat today . . . this week . . . this month? Chose wisely my friend, then be at peace; a PEACE only you and God will know!

As PROMISED . . .

The voice of one crying in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord; Make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted and every mountain and hill brought low; the crooked places shall be made straight and the rough places made smooth; the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken." (Isaiah 40:3-5)

Thanksgiving has come and gone as far as the calendar goes. We are being bombarded with with the secular CHRISTmas now. 24/7 songs, office parties, family gatherings, travel plans, cyber ads, super sales, deal after deal, one better than the next . . .  Where does JESUS fit in? After all, despite what many are saying, there is no season at all without having JESUS!

May I encourage us all to make plans for the coming of Jesus, yes, literally and also for the season of CHRISTmas! He is after all, our REASON for living and our REASON for hope!

 He was promised . . . He came into the world as promised, and as promised, He is to return . . . SOON!

When everyone else is choosing otherwise . . .

As you have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Beware, lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For IN HIM dwells all fullness of the Godhead bodily, and you are COMPLETE in Him, Who is the Head of all principality and power.(Colossians 2:6-10

I am so thankful for the foundation that I have been given from sound biblical principles. So grateful that the Lord placed me in a fundamentally strong church with a pastor that lives out the doctrines of the bible and even despite personal differences at times, bases every decision upon these truths. 

There is no room for false doctrines, worldly philosophies, or the ever-changing traditions of men! I am complete in Him as Paul writes.  God has the final say no matter the struggles we go through here on earth. 

As the world grows darker and even more entrapped and beguiled by Satan, those of us who stand upon Godly principles will become more and more tormented and tested. STAND. . . . STAND . . . . STAND on the foundation laid out in His Word. 

Be THANKFUL He is soon to return and reward those who await His appearing. (2 Timothy 4:8)

Thanks in the Journey

So if I come, I will bring up what he is doing, talking wicked nonsense against us. And not content with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers, and also stops those who want to and puts them out of the church. (3 John 1:10)

John, the elder of the churches in Asia Minor, is upset that some in the church are not only refusing to show hospitality to the traveling  missionaries, but they are also convincing others not to assist them, going as far as putting them out of the church! While I have not witnessed rejection to this extreme, I have been told that missionaries should support themselves, that it is the church's responsibility (not individuals), and you are not a member of our denominational allegiance/ partnership. Yet as servants of the Lord and called by Him to reach others with the Gospel, we have managed by God's grace for eighteen years!

We are so very thankful for our home church, a few local congregations (be they Baptist, Lutheran, or otherwise), and many individuals from school children through senior citizens who have partnered with us to serve thousands and bring hundreds to Christ through various outreaches and programs. Most of all, we are thankful to the Lord for calling us to serve Him, who can do far and above what we ever planned or dreamed! 

Please pray for us as we plan the CHRISTmas Season and beyond. We have 11 teens we serve and we need the Lord to supply . . . We are trusting God to raise at least $1,000 before CHRISTmas to allow us to do as we have planned. You may partner with us (tax-deductible of course) through mail (TSN, Box 2305, Bowie, MD, 20718) or on line at www.tsnministries.org (PayPal). Please join God at work and team with us to draw local teens into a deeper relationship with their Father.

Wait on it . . .

It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. — Lamentations 3:26

Waiting on God brings peace, teaches patience, and builds confidence in knowing He cares!

youth ministry

Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea. 

Never keep our youth from seeking Christ and growing in Him. Set a good example of faith. Encourage them. Support them. Help them grow. Take an interest in them. Challenge them. Don't sell them short. God holds us accountable!

I Want to be Like My DADDY

And we also thank God continually because, when you received the Word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the Word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. For you, brothers, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus . . . . (1 Thessalonians 2:13-14)

There is nothing like having someone say that your son or daughter is just like you. Unless, that is, they are imitating a bad habit of ours! Paul is writing to those in Thessalonica around A.D. 50 or so to commend them for following His teaching. They followed the example of the home church in Judea. They even suffered for their beliefs and their efforts to follow the Wod that they had been taught by Paul. He commended them. He was proud of them. He longed to see them again. They were his "pride and joy"!

How proud I am when I see a student I have taught follow the Word of God. How good it is to see them striving to honor Him and turn from the world's ways of living. I am even more proud when it is my own child doing his or her best to honor the Lord. It grieves me deeply when they choose otherwise!  

Have I failed? Have I not set the example? Have I not done all I can to reach their hearts for Christ? What is it I could do better?  

While I am reminded that even Jesus could not reach them all, I still do not want anyone to choose not to follow. I take it personally! It is not God's will that anyone be lost. That too is my desire!

A little light . . . A bit of seasoning . . . A life of FLAVOR

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

I shared these words with a rambunctious group of six and seven year olds a few days ago. They made a board with various people ranging from parents, friends, siblings, teachers, and the like. There was an arrow connected to a pin which allowed the students to spin the arrow and have it land on a person. The students were to then do something nice for that person during the week. . . without seeking reward. The kids were excited to get home and do something good!   

I wonder how that would work with us the remainder of the week? We all know folks who could use a smile, and helping hand, a note of thanks, maybe a slice of pizza or a cup of delicious, warm, hearty coffee. . . sorry, I digressed a bit!!!! 

But seriously though, let's make a list today of people in our lives who could use a good deed and be sure to keep it quiet, whereby only our Father will know. Let's be a warm light, a dash of seasoning, a ray of SONshine in an otherwise dull, grey, ordinary day for someone who could use it. 

There are plenty of opportunities to shine today for our Daddy . . . We simply have to allow His light to come out. But remember . . . Do not look for or anticipate the reward. The "well done" is awaiting one day!

Let's go back . . .

While thus occupied, as I journeyed to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, at midday, O King, along the road I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and those who journeyed with me. . . . I now send you, to open their eyes , in order to turn them from darkness to light . . . (Acts 26:12-18) 

I have been attending my church's Revival this week, with some awesome worship, prayer and biblical teaching. While I have been praying for a Revivial within our church for a few years now, I also have sensed a need for the fire to be rekindled within me!We all can easily fall into the Christian routine as we go through life. . . SONday service, off to work or school, Wednesday bible study, finish the week, maybe a Friday or Saturday ministry event, than back to church on SONday. Week after week . . . month after month . . . year after year . . . But we need to go back . . . to our first Love, to when we first recieved Jesus, when He  grabbed us, called us, rescued us from the pit of hell and the stench of this earth.  

Can we go back today? Can we remember when Jesus called our name? 

It just so happens to be my daughters's 28th birthday today and as I think of her I can't help but recall it was through her that Jesus reached me. I believed I was doing all I could . . . and I was as a single dad . . . but it was not about me or my daughter really, but it was and always is about Jesus. He knew what and WHOM I needed!

 I thank God that He grabbed me when He did. Looking back, I was headed quickly in the wrong direction. My compass was off. I had the wrong road map. And today, I can look back and not only be grateful to my Savior for rescuing me, but for always being beside me to pull me back on the road! 

May He take us back today . . .

Too Late? It Will Be One Day!

The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor, He has sent Me to heal the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. (Luke 4:18-19) 

Time is so short. I wonder if we really realize in which days we are living. In one day recently, there were earthquakes in two regions of our world and terrorist attacks in at least four others. 

My bible says that in the last days there will be nations rising against nations and wars and rumors of wars, even earthquakes in various places (Matthew 24:6-8). So many are deceived these days by the dummying-down of the Gospel. So many are afraid to offend or simply just do not know the Truth. 

However, my heart is burdened for everyone, especially our youth to know the Truth.  After all, who will tell others when we are gone?  Pray for laborers to go into the field and embrace the harvest of souls begging for the Truth!

Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, in the day of trial in the wilderness, where your fathers tested Me, tried Me, and saw My yoke for forty years . . . (Hebrews 3:7-9, Psalm 95:7-11)

Please Forgive Me!

He who covers his sin will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them WILL have mercy. Happy is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity. (Proverbs 28:13-14) 

It took me a long time in my walk with Christ to realize He has actually forgiven me. Once I admit to God that I am wrong . . . I have sinned against Him and Him alone . . . That He indeed forgives me and washes my sin whiter than snow. 

I agree with God what is sin and despise it. I love everything about God. Am I perfect? No! Am I striving for it? Yes, indeed . . . but only by His Spirit that resides within me! 

I detest the sin I still allow to creep into my heart . . . my life. Yet I know because of His grace, God loves me still, despite what others may say or think about me. They don't know me like my Daddy knows me!

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart . . . These O God, you will not despise. (Psalm 51:17)

Have you truly asked God to forgive your sin? Do you agree with God as to what is sin? His grace is indeed sufficient to get us through when others want to go back or stay in the past. We may not agree with every person, but we must be sure to be in agreement with God!

Service with a Smile

If there is among you a poor man of your brethren, within any of the gates in your land, which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall NOT harden your heart nor SHUT YOUR HAND from your poor brother, but you shall OPEN YOUR HAND wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, WHATEVER HE NEEDS. . . You shall surely GIVE TO HIM, and your heart shall not be grieved when you give to him, because for this thing the Lord God will bless you in ALL your works and in ALL to which you put your hand. (Deuteronomy 15:7-10)

Does anyone remember what we celebrate THANKS-GIVING? There is a really good way to give thanks to God . . . give to others,Matthew 26:11 and John 12:8 remind us that we will always have the poor among us. In fact, Jewish farmers knew this and would be instructed to set aside the outside of the farms for the poor to collect crops. But the Lord is challenging them a bit further in this command. 

If our light is to SHINE (Matthew 5:16) than we are to be DIFFERENT from the others. 

Most people help and than look to see who is watching and what award they can receive. In fact, many programs GIVE THE GIVERS a gift when they serve or donate. But God calls us to do it without reward and without notice. We are to give with a smile! We are to give and then feel real good about what we have done, not what we will receive. 

Of course, God sees it and will reward us one day, but that is not WHY we give. We give because JESUS gave . . . He gave HIS LIFE! Therefore our lives should be known for GIVING! Think about that as the SEASON of GIVING approaches!!!

Parents Don't Quit

For He established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children; that the generation to come might know them, the children who would be born, that they may arise and declare them to their children, that they may set their hope in God, and not forget the words of God, but keep His commandments; and may not be like their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generations generation that did NOT set its heart aright, and whose spirit was NOT faithful to God.(Psalm 78:5-9)

As one who has been working with young people for more than thirty years, the last eighteen in direct youth ministry and counseling, I can honestly say that with every passing year comes a dummying-down of TRUTH and more and more tolerance of whatever the culture decides is ACCEPTABLE. 

God is specific about what is TRUTH and what is fabricated. His TRUTH endures from generation to generation. His WORD will be the only thing surviving this world . . .because it is not of this world! Every generation seems to get worse and worse, more and more rebellious as the psalmist Asaph wrote. Their hearts are not right with God. Their spirit is not aligned properly with His TRUTHS. 

So who is to blame? Is it society . . . the schools . . . their peers . . . NO! God is clear: It is the fathers' responsibility to teach and model what is right. He is spiritually responsible for his household. It is the mothers' job to nurture the children and care for the home. While that ideal is not always present in today's homes, the roles are still needed. Parents, CHRISTian parents, must be accountable to God. 

We have to take our roles seriously before God, not society. We cannot cave in to acceptable ways of culture and politically correct models of parenting. God requires much more. He requires TRUTH! Are we perfect? No. Should we strive to be? Yes! We stay on our faces before God. We repent when we have failed. We never give up. We never give in. We fight . . . We fight . . . We fight! 

The battle is not ours, it is THE LORD'S!

Are you feeling Satan's wrath yet?

At that time, a great persecution arose against the church, which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, EXCEPT the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great Lamentations over him. As for Paul, he made havoc of the church . . .therefore, those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the Word. (Acts 8:1-4)

Facing havoc lately? Join the club! Yet, despite the persecution, despite the struggles, despite the opposition, never stop sharing the Word. Satan may send roadblocks, but the map still points to Christ and we must stay focused on His will for each of us! 

Do NOT allow Satan and his darts and arrows to make us quit. Stay in the fight. Notice the words above read that despite things, the Word was still being taught and lived out!

Tradition or Tolerance?

Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright. (Proverbs 20:11)

Do not rebuke and older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, with all purity. . . Let the elders who rule be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in word and doctrine . . . (1 Timothy 5:1-2,17)

Just a few thoughts today: what is God saying about respect / authority in these passages? Are we carrying these guidelines out in our lives? 

God's Word is still His Word!

An Army of One

You therefore, must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. . . Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. (2 Timothy 2:4-7)

I cannot imagine what it must be like on the battlefield . . . Rocket fire . . . Planes dropping bombs . . . Enemies around every corner and under every bush . . . Separated from loved ones . . .  Not even knowing who the enemy may be at times . . . Never knowing if today may be my last day on earth . . .  It must be as if the worst reality show is just that, REALITY!!!! I so respect those who have served and are serving us today to keep us free to live as we do. 

What a sacrifice . . . to lay down ones life not simply for family and friends, but for total strangers and even at times for the freedom of the very nation in which they are fighting! While I may face battles here on earth, I know my victory is won by the blood of Jesus and His resurrection power over life and death! 

Yes, today I honor those who have battled and sacrificed to keep us free, but most importantly, I honor the One who frees me from sin eternally! Glad to be in His army . . . The Army of One!

One is a lonely number . . .

Confess your trespasses to one another, and PRAY for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man available much. (James 5:16)

Christian fellowship is so unique. It is an awesome experience to be with a stranger, one you just met, yet you can sense a kinship and a feeling of belonging. It is not as evident locally as it is when I travel however. I believe we take for granted the bond available in our local fellowships and within our personal circles. 

We should yearn for times to pray with one another, encourage one another, admit our failings to one another, and to challenge one another. It should not have to wait for a church revival or a mission trip a year in the making! If it is in God's Word and written from Jesus' brother as well . . . maybe we should heed the instruction! 

Seek out a brother or sister and check in with our Father . . . . together . . . . today! (Psalm 133:1)

Feeding Time

This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart . . . But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the TRUTH is in Jesus: that you PUT OFF, concerning your former conduct, the OLD MAN that grows corrupt according to deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you out on the NEW MAN which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:17-25)

If we do not feed a dog, it will die eventually! This is the best analogy to sin I can imagine. If I keep feeding into my old ungodly desires, they will thrive. I will continue to sin over and over again. Even though I am saved, I will not experience the fellowship and blessings of living a holy and God-honoring life.  

If I choose Godly activity, pure thoughts, friends who will hold me accountable, I can't help but become more like the man God wants me to be. Feed the old, sinful lifestyle, or the lifestyle God desires for me? Though Jesus did the work for my salvation, there are still choices I must make!

A Piece of Work

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.  Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:6-8)

We hear it all the time and in Christian circles, we say it and sing it: It's not about me . . . It's about Jesus and others. But how well are we living it? How many times do you and I feel slighted when someone else gets the attention? How often do we worry over things out of our control? How many times do we "set our religion aside" and lose control over ridiculous matters? How often do we take our focus off of God and focus too much on this world and its matters?

We all have sinned and we are still sinning . . . Not an excuse, but a reminder how much you and I need Jesus . . . How much more we need to grow in His grace and mercy. Lord help us today to repent of failing you and others and help us Holy Spirit to allow You to reign and rule within us so others may see You and not "me"!

Blessed Days Dont Always Mean Best Days

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile you and persecute you, and say ALL kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. REJOICE and BE EXCEEDINGLY GLAD, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:10-12) 

Happy . . .  Yes, HAPPY are those of us who may be criticized, admonished, falsely accused, even reprimanded for doing our best to carry out the will of God in our lives. I don't know about you, but I have had my share, since first accepting the call from my Savior some twenty- two years ago. It seems the closer I get to the Lord, the more I try to line up with His will, the more the critics line up . . . from family, close friends, you name it. However, I have these words from Jesus and some very stable Christ-followers to keep me HAPPY! 

We, you and I, must keep them in mind when we feel so low and helpless. The fight IS worth the effort. I keep saying to myself, " Someone is listening, if not only God!" I must remember that I am living for Him alone at times and only what I do for Christ will last. Many times, my love for Him will be misconstrued as hate for this world and those in it. In time, everyone will understand. I just wish it was sooner rather than later . . .

And let us NOT GROW WEARY while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we DO NOT LOSE HEART. (Galatians 6:9)

Eyes Wide Open

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)

Be careful. Be wise. Don't be foolish and think Satan and his demons are not concerned with you. The more we attempt to honor the Lord, the more we commit to serve Him and to seek others to win for Christ, the more diligent Satan becomes to attack us. However, he does not attack in obvious ways. He still wears a disguise. 

An innocent face . . . A gentle nudge . . . A minute here or there . . . A slight diversion . . . A moment of weakness . . . A brief lack of focus . . .

Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8) 

This is a still a dangerous world. We must protect one another . . . support one another . . . encourage one another . . . PRAY for and with one another. We do not want any one to lost nor do we want to be Satan's next meal!

RUNNING . . . Towards What?

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only ONE receives the prize? Run in such a way that you might obtain it. . . 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 9:24-27)

Running . . . . Running . . . RUNNING . . . RUNNING . . . 

Do you find the days becoming weeks and weeks becoming months and months becoming years? Just running aimlessly or at the very least running and not accomplishing much if nothing at all? It can get that way in this world . . . even while doing good things! Paul encourages us to be disciplined. Set boundaries. Set small goals that can lead to bigger goals. 

Daily goals . . . Weekly goals . . . Yearly goals . . . Five-year plans and life-long strategies. God has a plan for each of His children but He will not plan it out. It takes deliberate praying, counseling, planning, laboring, and also times of resting . . .yes, RESTING! 

My pastor often reminds us all . . . Failing to plan is planning to fail. Have a plan and write it down; for you and all to see. (Habakkuk 2:2)

Character Attacks

But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the Word of God deceitfully, but manifestation of the Truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. (2 Corinthians 4:2)

Paul often has to write to defend himself to those who doubt his calling, but he never has to defend God! There are times in our lives when people may remind of of who we used to be. They may point out our sin in light of our faith in Christ. They may pull some Scripture out of context in order to attempt to condemn us. However, we must remain true to the Word and the what He has us to do. We know all about sin and its traps. We know how powerful it can be . . . how cunning . . .how deceitful. We also realize we still sin! 

So we must remain faithful in all of our dealings . . . for Christ's sake and for the opportunity to lead even those who torment us to our Savior. It's what God knows about us that matters. Stay strong . . . Stay faithful . . . Stay under the power of His Spirit!

The Battles Within

And Moses built and altar and called its name, The Lord is my banner (Yahweh-Nissi), for he said, "Because the Lord has sworn: the Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation. (Exodus 17:15-16)

As Moses hands remained lifted, the Israel forces were successful. As he remained focused and looking "up" he and all of Irael were favored by God. It is no different today. While the Amalekites cannot be identified specifically today as a nation, we can identify the enemies within us as individuals. 

We must face the cynics and critics of our beliefs with love, kindness, forgiveness, and generous its. We cannot allow false accusations to tarnish our character and integrity. Sarcastic taunts and illogical responses do not respond to reason. 

And never forget to keep focus on Jehovah-Nissi, the One who fights for us and with us!

Cant stop . . . Won't stop!

Let him who is taught the Word share in all good things with him who teaches. . . .for he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh real corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in DUE SEASON we shall reap if we do not LOSE HEART . . . (Galatians 6:6-9)

We do get tired and frustrated at times. Not everyone understands the work of Christ. Even those within our faith circles can be a bit confused at times. Those closest to us can get offended. 

But do not grow weary. Don't give in to the world. Stay focused upon the cross and His work for us so we can concentrate on what we do for Him. In DUE SEASON we will find rest and reward! 

Can't stop . . . Won't stop serving my Savior!

Decisions . . .Decisions

Grace . . . Receiving what we DO NOT deserve.

Mercy . . . Not receiving what we DO deserve.

Discipline  . . . Proper correction given to bring one into obedience or required standards.

And have MERCY on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with FEAR, hating even the garment stained by the flesh. (Jude 1:22-23)

Grace and discipline . . . When do we hold back? When do we drop the hammer? How does God operate? Well, perhaps we can learn from His Word. 

If one simply has a poor self esteem, thinking they are too bad for God, not worth our efforts, we need to gently bring them to the realities of Christ and His standards. On the other hand, for those who know better, well they need to be reminded of God's wrath and His utter hate for sin! We can only look to the Jewish people for the evidence in how God dealt personally with them.

God gives us all room for repentance . . . but not too much room!

For Real?

Therefore, gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in ALL your conduct, for it is written (in Leviticus 11,19, &20), "Be holy, for I am holy." (1 Peter 1:13-16)

Strong words here from one who knew the consequences of sin. Peter experienced the out-of-fellowship feeling for sure! He knew the pain and anguish of disappointing the Savior. 

Many times we do not feel this pain. We are way too casual with sin and forgiveness. We tend to excuse far too much of our actions. 

I like how Peter says gird up the loins of your minds. To me this refers to a deep, gut-searching decision to follow the Lord, rather than a flippant statement. 

Can we decide to throw away these casual attitudes when it comes to Christ? Can we be serious with our relationship now as well as in eternity?

Still The Deliverer!

Moses said to the people, "Do not fear! Stand firm and see the salvation of the Lord that He will provide for you today; for the Egyptians that you see today you will never, ever see again. The Lord will fight for you, and you can be STILL." (Exodus 14:13-14)

Be still. Wait upon the Lord. Trust in the Lord with all your heart. God has a plan for His people to succeed and not fail. What great, historical, and proven advice, Since the beginning, God has been telling us to trust Him, wait upon Him, and even count our trials and troubles as joy! Yet we still do not always follow His advice . . . We still believe we know better and can handle things all by ourselves. 

We can really be DUMB at times, can't we? 

Whom or what do we fear today? What enemy is chasing us down? Why are we looking over our shoulder? What is facing us tomorrow that God cannot handle? Is He still not God? Face that giant and watch God knock him down . . . Move him out of your way . . . Allow you to walk right over and through that challenging valley! 

The DELIVERER still delivers!

Focus on God, not the Enemy

They said to you, "In the last times there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions. It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt . . Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. AMEN! (Jude 1:18-24)

Challenging days present opportunities for God to receive glory. The more we feel unprepared, the more God supplies. The more we feel ridiculed and criticized, the more God provides assurance and comfort. As we progress through our journey, not everyone will trust our motives and efforts, yet as we walk with the Lord and trust Him and His plan for ourselves, He will show up and eventually we will experience His joy as well. 

Hang in . . . Stay focused upon Him. The enemy can come in various forms. Do not focus on the opposition, simply do what God has enabled you (and me) to accomplish!

And He said to me, " My grace is sufficient for you, My strength is made perfect in weakness." . . . For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

It seems the stronger we think we are, the more we believe we are in control, then the more things fall apart . . . relationships, health, careers, plans. Take heed. 

TRUST GOD. 

Remember Job? Yes, Job! God may be trusting us so much that He is allowing all these things to occur so we can give Him glory! 

Stay focused. Stay grounded. This life is not for eternity, but our relationship with our God is!

I Can't Wait!

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which SHALL be revealed in us. . . For we were saved in this hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly await for it with perseverance. (Romans 8:18-25)

I can't wait for the weekend! I can't wait for Thanksgiving break! I can't wait for CHRISTmas! Then the time arrives . . . and it's gone!!! The things we look forward to in this world are nice breaks from the everyday routine, yet when they arrive, it seems as if they fly by so quickly. Even when we receive things we have eagerly desired, when we get them, the thrill of receiving the item seems to never be as exciting as the wait.  

WHY? 

All these things are temporary: they do not and will not last forever. There is always the next thing . . . the better thing . . . the more exciting thing. However, as the writer reminds us, the things of God, the things we cannot see quite yet, are not temporary moments of excitement, but rather eternal in nature and reward! 

So while we might find glimpses of joy in these moments of pleasure on this earth, as we learn to anticipate God and work toward heavenly rewards, we find real lasting JOY knowing that everything we do for HIM will last forever! 

I CANT WAIT!!!!!!

Yes . . . Be thankful in ALL circumstances!

Rejoice ALWAYS, pray WITHOUT CEASING, in EVERYTHING give thanks; for this IS the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not QUENCH the Spirit. . . . He who calls you is FAITHFUL, who also will do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-24)

Hard words to swallow when things are challenging. Rejoice? Keep praying? Be thankful in EVERYTHING? Me? Really God? Are You sure? 

I guess the real question is; "Do we really trust God?" I know we say it when we are in church, or when we are discussing Him with others, or even telling others to trust Him . . . but do we really trust Him when things get really heavy?

When the car repairs are more than the paycheck . . . When the grades were final before the work was complete . . .When the work lasts longer than the hours in a day . . . When the last nerve has been plucked last week?  

How will God ever get the glory if we keep acting in the flesh. If we keep trying to figure things out or fix things, how in the world can God do it? 

Maybe just once, we will wait upon the Lord . . . 

Then we will be able to say "It was God!" Then everyone else will see Him at work as well!

Family Ties

Therefore be patient, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord IS at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, THE JUDGE is standing at the door! (James 5:7-9)

We all enjoy hearing from God and then telling others what He is telling them. Well, fellow believers, this time James is talking to you and me . . . brethren! 

We have to stop whining. We must be patient. We need to stop the grumbling within our very own churches and families. It is NOT pleasing God. I must admit . . . I do it too. Why do we do this? . . . Why can't we do that? . . . Are we doing that again?

 I don't think we realize how we are affecting one another . . . how we are affecting God!  Imagine how we feel when our family is constantly bickering and complaining; at odds with one another. Now imagine how God feels about His family, the Church. He is, as James reminds us, standing at our door listening in . . .

Can't God do it?

Ah, Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is NOTHING too hard for You! (Jeremiah 32:17)

So what is troubling you today? Where are the doubts? Any fears? Wondering what tomorrow will bring? Do you still trust the One who made all things and sustains all things . . . even you and me? It's our human (sin) nature to worry and to doubt. It is our lack of faith in the God who designed and build this world with simply His voice that causes us to doubt Him. He breathed life into man and made us in His image, yet we think He has forgotten us! 

Please forgive us Lord. Help me . . . Help us all . . .  to trust in these words once again: 

But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and ALL these things SHALL be added to you. (Matthew 6:33)

Don't Shy Away from TRUTH

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. (Acts 2:42)

Once once receiving the Holy Spirit, we see here in Acts 2 the excitement from the disciples. While we know of the thousands that were saved on that one day, it is also important to remember that the disciples continued steadfastly in the apostles' teaching! Today especially, we must continue the biblical doctrines the apostles laid out. 

We cannot compromise. Truth is truth and must remain truth. Study His Word . . . Meet with one another on regular occasions . . . Take communion seriously . . . And pray continuously! We are one in Christ!

One Team . . . One Dream

One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, Who is above all and through all, and in YOU all. . . Till we all come in the UNITY of faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:5-13)

Oneness . . . It is the goal of teams, schools, businesses and families alike. It is also the goal God has in mind for His Body of believers.  We live separate lives throughout the week and even when we get together for SONday worship, we separate by denomination, age groups, and ethnicity. It is NOT the way God intended. God's goal for us is to reflect heaven . . . one-ness . . . one functioning body in Christ. This should not simply be the goal of individual churches, but THE Church . . . all churches under the banner of the blood of Jesus. Whether we call ourselves Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, AME, Full Gospel . . . whatever . . . We are called to be ONE! 

If the world sees division within those calling themselves Christ-followers, than how are we to effectively witness of a grace-filled God? How are we to tell of a Savior that calls everyone to repentance when we discriminate?  If we reject the sinner how are we to convince them that Jesus loves sinners?

Is ONE TEAM still just a DREAM? God help us and heal us!!!!!

My Captain, My Team . . . Something about that name!

There is something about that name . . . Redskins, Cowboys, or that wonderful name  . . . 

R A V E N S !!!!!!!!!!

But there is a better, stronger, more perfect name . . . that name is J E S U S !!!! SAVIOR . . . What a name. What a Person! What a God! Do you know Him?

 . . .that at the name of JESUS every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth. (Philippians 2:10)

Jesus is my Captain. I have joined His team for eternity. What a name! But others have chosen to align with other squads. 

There is the work squad, the neighborhood squad, the cool squad and the "those who will help me get ahead" squad. There may even be the church squad or the gym squad. Then of course we have the "ones we watch the game with" squad. 

We all have those groups or squads we identify with from time to time. All these identities may be fun at times, but some may even be detrimental. Above all, we need to identify with our Savior and give Him our allegiance. He is, after all, the one and only undefeated Champion! 

Who is receiving your cheers, your support, your strength? What jersey are you wearing within your heart? Whose team are you on today? Are others able to recognize the team you have joined?

In God's Eyes . . .

But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance, or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.  .  . Now he was ruddy, with bright eyes and good looking. And the Lord said, "Arise, anoint him; for this is the one." Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward. (1 Samuel 16:7-13)

Oh, if we could see what God sees. We are so quick to decide who is better or more qualified by looks, degrees, or pedigree.  We look at a resume without looking at the heart. A nice suit, a fresh hair style, a recommendation, a great way of articulating . . .all lends to a great impression. But only God knows the true integrity of a person. . . their heart. 

David was not the best looking, strongest, oldest, wisest, or most experienced. He did not look the part. Yet God had His eye upon David's heart! 

How do we choose today? Is it based upon education, experience, background, ethnicity, social status, memberships? Take time to check out one's heart . . . their character . . . what God knows about them. 

While we may be able to get a general idea of a book by reading the cover, it is not until we get deep into the story that we actually understand the message!

What a Bunch of WEIRDOS!

If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love it's own. Yet because you are NOT of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. (John 15:18-19)

Why am I such a misfit? Remember the song from the CHRISTmas cartoon, "Rudolph, the Rednose Reindeer"? Never quite fitting in? Always seem a bit odd? Feeling weird more often that normal? This is something to think about as a Christ-follower. 

Are we trying too hard to fit in? Are we trying to please the wrong people? Where is our allegiance anyway? 

As we ponder these thoughts today remember this: We may never really fit in this world. Jesus told us so . . .

WEIRDO!!!!

Wake Up!

Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which having no captain, overseer, or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, O sluggard?  When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep . . . . So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and your need like an armed man. (Proverbs 6:6-11)

This is such timely wisdom for this day and age. While there are many who are hard at work (and at times working way too much!) many are simply spending too much time waiting for work and waiting and expecting hand-outs. We were once a proud nation of hard-working men and women here in the United States. Lately it seems we are a nation of "entitlement". Our banks have been bailed out. Our auto industry has been bailed out. Our insurance companies have been bailed out. Unemployment benefits are extended for years and years. Temporary assistance to families in need has become a way of life for way too many! Tax loopholes allow the rich to get richer at the expense of the working class. 

Please do not get me wrong: I am not condemning those in real need and in dire straits. I am criticizing our government for making it way too easy for many to live an life of the sluggard while our future generations rot away. Hard work and it's rewards have been replaced with "get rich quick schemes" and "get what is mine" attitudes. Others simply find ways to "live off the system". God cannot be pleased with this at all. 

We as Christ-followers must instill in our youth the hard work ethic by example and by biblical teaching. Work is a blessing and the labor we put forth to provide is not in vain! Now is not the time to rest upon our laurels but to do whatever we need to do to supply our families' needs. God rewards effort, not laziness!

A Growing Faith

And the apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith." So the Lord said, "If you have the faith of a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be pulled up the roots and be planted in the sea', and it would obey you. . . . So like wait you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, " We are unprofitable servants. We have done what is our duty to do." (Luke 17:5-10)

When the apostles asked for an increase in faith, Jesus shared a lesson on obedience. Strange? No, it is not strange with Jesus! Jesus did not always answer a question directly. Many times he responded with another questions. Other times, like in this case, He responded with a short story or parable to teach a practical lesson. Jesus reminds us all that as we are obedient in serving God, being careful to do all He teaches us, we will see and increase in faith. 

As we serve others, we experience the presence of His Spirit. As we follow His commands, we become closer to Him. At the end of a day when we please God, we are satisfied. Faith cannot be strengthened without obedience in our actions. Actions are to reflect our faith. Faith and actions go hand in hand. One increases the other! (James 2:14-26, Ephesians 2:8-9) 

It's Why We Pray

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and ALL WHO ARE IN AUTHORITY, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in ALL godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires ALL men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the Truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4)

Prayer is not to be taken lightly. It is not simply for us either as Paul tells us. We are to lift up ALL those in authority so it may be well with us. We are not simply to pray for their decision-making and for their protection, but for their SALVATION as well! The closer our leaders are to God, the better off we all will be. 

However,  Paul says to pray for ALL who are in authority. This includes our immediate supervisors at the job, our pastors of course, our police personnel, school leaders and teachers, and of course parents everywhere! Leadership involves much in the way of decisions; daily decisions, short-term plans, long- term plans, emergency plans, contingency plans, personnel decisions, and plans concerning infrastructure. All this planning requires wisdom and understanding. Where in the world do all the answers come from anyway?

 If anyone, ANYONE lacks wisdom, James says we should "ask of God"! How can our leaders ask of someone they may not know or may be forgetting? Pressures of decision-making can lead to rash decisions. This is where we all come in . . . Let's remember our leaders today and PRAY!

Fear Not!

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hair of your head are all numbered. Do NOT fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. (Matthew 10:28-31)

There is much o be concerned about in our world for sure; wars, terrorism, crime, racism, economic hardships, health issues, and more. Concern is one thing, but FEAR is a totally different animal! As families, it is commendable to be concerned and plan for the future in order to be prepared. However, the best preparation one can ever have for the future is a secure and active relationship with the Creator and Sustainer of this world . . . Jesus Christ! This alone removes fear.

If He indeed cares for the diminutive sparrow, how much more does He care for you and me, the ones made in His image in order to glorify Himself? Have we really ever considered this fact? Ponder that today: Creator God loves me more that anything He created and He wants to provide for me here and spend eternity with me when life here is completed . . . Can we all saw WOW?!?!?!

Losing the battle?

When my soul fainted within me, I remembered the Lord; and my prayer went up to You, into Your holy temple. Those who regard worthless idols forsake their own mercy. But I will sacrifice to You with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay what I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord. So the Lord spoke to the fish and it vomited Jonah onto dry land. (Jonah 2:7-10)

Tired? Weary? Disappointed? A bit jealous of others maybe? Questioning God? Welcome to real life . . . but welcome to a real relationship with a real God! 

Jonah, God's man Jonah, had some real issues; some of which included anger, bitterness, prejudices, and doubt. He even ran from God and his calling. Yet even as God dealt directly with Jonah, he called upon the Lord and the Lord answered. He repented and God delivered and still accomplished His will in Johah's life. 

We may find ourselves at odds with God. We may disagree for a bit about what He wants and how He is doing things. But stay at it. Stay in touch with God. He will not abandon us and we should never abandon Him. 

Call out . . . Cry out . . . Sell out! God can and will always come through . . .even from the depths of the belly of a fish!

Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. (Isaiah 55:6-7)

As in the day of Noah, many today are going about their everyday life ignoring the call to repent. . . ignoring the need to turn to God and away from the world and its magnetic pull. As a result, like those in Noah's day, many will be eternally lost. One day, and soon may I suggest, the Lord will return and it will be too late once again. The ark of safety will be shut up and those left behind will be left moaning and pleading for God to rescue them. 

Please make today the day we call out to the Lord for repentance, for forgiveness, for mercy, for salvation. If today we hear His voice, we must respond . . . not tomorrow. Tomorrow is promised to no one but those who have found safety in His arms!

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and He shall thrust out the enemy from before you; and shall say, Destroy them. (Deuteronomy 33:27)

The New Super Hero

Look . . . Up in the sky . . . It's a bird . . . It's a plane . . . No, it's a new SUPER HERO!

And He sat down and called the twelve. And He said to them, "If anyone would be first, he must be the last of all and servant of all." (Mark 9:35)

Most of our super heroes had special powers. They could fly, leap tall buildings, run at superhuman speeds, possess tremendous strength, stretch beyond human limits, or some other unbelievable feat. Jesus did all these . . . and came back to life from a brutal death . . .  all while saving anyone who calls upon His name from a fiery, eternal hell!

So how can we be like Him? How can we too be a Super Hero? We must serve like He does . . . by giving our life up for others! Now go strap on that cross, put on that helmet, grab that sword and follow . . . 

There is a world to save!

Mirror . . . Mirror . . . What do people see in us?

Jethro mentored Moses . . . Moses mentored Joshua . . . Joshua mentored the remaining elders . . . Eli mentored Samuel . . .Samuel mentored kings including David and David mentored his son Solomon . . . Elijah mentored Elisha and Jesus mentored twelve pretty influential guys. Finally, Paul mentored a young pastor named Timothy along with Titus and other local leaders of the young Church. Though mentoring is not mentioned literally in the bible, it is a biblical principle. However, in our modern Christian circles, we do not pray, worship, even "fellowship" generationally much anymore. 

Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1)

Mentoring builds authentic relationships that can and will have generational and eternal rewards. However, beware . . . Little eyes are upon us . . . We all are responsible for the generation coming up behind us!

The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:9)

Without Excuse

But they have not all obeyed the Gospel. For Isaiah says, "LORD, who has believed our report?" So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. But I say, have they not heard? Yes, indeed: "Their sound has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the end of the world (Psalm 19:4)." (Romans 10:17-18)

Funny that this word in Romans was written so long ago, just 30-40 years after Christ resurrection. Even stranger that the quotes come Psalms and Isaiah, before the incarnation of Christ! 

Many today ask what happens to the ones who have never heard the Gospel . . . the Good News of Christ.  Yet the psalmist, along with the prophet Isaiah and apostle Paul, all say the Word of God has not been obeyed. 

Even today, the question is not have we heard, but have we obeyed! Enough has been said and done for folks to believe. 

Will we walk in obedience to Christ or in step with the world?

Stay!

They said to Him, "Rabbi" (Teacher) "where are You staying?" He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where He was staying and remained with Him that day. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah." And he brought him to Jesus. (John 1:38-39)

I am amazed how the first disciples dropped everything and followed Jesus. Of course there were those who simply turned away and never followed, but the ones who did follow did not hesitate. They were searching for Messiah and when they found Him, they did not delay. They did not say they had to get something else done or finish this or that . . . Jesus said "Come" and they followed. In fact, they STAYED with Him! They called others as well.  

Oh, if I could have that kind of commitment to STAY with Jesus. Yes, I know my Savior and I love Him and all He does for me, but I wander way too much. It embarrasses me. After all He has done and all He is, why can't I STAY? Why can't I tell everyone every day? How can I forget? How can I be so preoccupied with life when I am neglecting the One who gives and sustains life?

Jesus, keep me near You . . . Especially when I stray . . . Do not allow me to wandered too far too often. Keep me nearer . . . nearer . . . 

Labor or Service?

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (1 Peter 4:10) 

God has gifted everyone with physical gifts and unique personalities. Additionally, He gifts every believer with one or several spiritual gifts with which to serve the Body.  First we must discover these gifts but then we must use them . . . Not for the applause of man but rather to the glory of God. 

We are to serve where needed, when asked, and when it may even be uncomfortable or challenging. Those rewarded here on earth will receive just that; an earthly reward. However, those who serve humbly, sacrificially, and quietly will receive their reward from God in heaven. We must choose whom we will serve and also how we will serve.  There are eternal consequences!

So then each one of us shall give account of himself to God. (Romans 14:12)

Are we prepared?

I can't hear You!

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. (John 14:26)

Some say they cannot "hear" from God. However, we have the assurance that if we have faith in God and diligently seek Him, He will reward us. (Hebrews 11:6)

 Perhaps we are simply asking the wrong question! Instead of asking why we do not hear from God, perhaps we should be asking the Holy Spirit to teach us and ask Him to give us a discerning ear to be able to discipher His voice from among the many noises in our hearing. 

Just a suggestion . . . I am going to try it today myself!

Burdens can be heavy....

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is in Him. He alone is my Rock and my Salvation, my Fortress; I shall NOT be shaken. On God rests my salvation and my glory; my Mighty Rock, my Refuge is God. Trust in Him at ALL times, O people before Him; God IS a refuge for us. (Psalm 62:5-8)

Frustrated? Hurt? Alone? Looking for a place to escape? God alone is the answer! He knows us. He feels our pain, anxiety, and frustrations. He knows how frail we can be and how challenging life can be at times. 

Just look back to the Garden of  Gethsemane when Jesus Himself felt a bit frustrated and unsure: "Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not My will, but Yours be done." (Luke 22:52) No matter what we are facing, the answer must be, "Nevertheless Father; Your will and not mine"!  

God knows! He cares! He will give us all we need to get through. For His glory we must press on so He may accomplish His will in and through us.

No More Sacrifice Needed . . . It is Finished!

I love the Lord, because He has heard my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. (Psalm 116:1-2)

I love the Lord. He heard my cry and pitied every groan . . . What a love song . . . What a Savior . . . 

At a time when Jews around the world celebrate Yom Kippur, we can celebrate our Savior who has already atoned for every one of our sins. He has sacrificed Himself . . . Shed His own precious blood in exchange for your life and mine. 

Oh, how I love Him! Oh, how I need Him! Oh, how I praise Him! 

Do you love Jesus today? Let Him know with a heart and words and a life of praise!

Toned for our sin. 

Send me? Use me? Why not, He is God!

So I said, "Woe is me, for I am of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts."  . . . "Behold, this has touched your lips; your iniquity is taken away, and your sin is purged." And I heard the voice of the Lord saying: "Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us? THEN, I said, "Here am I! SEND ME." (Isaiah 6:5-8)

Sinful, unworthy, sorry, messed up, jacked up, wretched . . . That was me too before the Lord rescued me. Yet even after being found by the Lord, I still felt unworthy to ever really serve Him. I mean, thank God I was saved, but to work for Him? Even today I doubt myself often . . . But God! 

He uses the broken, the unwanted, the left out and the unworthy. He wants those the world has rejected. He desires the undesirables. He uses the used up! Thank God that He has not forgotten, rejected, or cast away you and me. 

He specializes in do-overs. Never doubt what God can do . . . give it all up for Him and His will. He will reward greatly!

Quiet War

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the PEACE of GOD, which surpasses ALL understanding, will guard your hears and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy . . . meditate on these things . . . and the PEACE of GOD will be with you. (Philippians 4:6-8)

I have heard it asked often, "How can one be so calm in such a trying moment?" Whether it was asked of a cancer patient or one surviving a natural disaster, I have heard the same reply: "It was God!" 

Knowing God is always in control helps the believer to trust Him in the most trying of times. However, the key is to know God intimately before the trial begins! 

Having a solid relationship with the Creator of ALL things enables us to endure ALL things. Trusting God in the good times and bad, seeking His face daily, speaking with the Father EVERY day . . . prepares us for the worst days. Because challenges distract us, we must know where to turn before tragedy strikes. Then when it comes, and it will come we will indeed have His PEACE than many will not understand! 

Challenging times are overcome within the quiet wars of quiet times with our Father.