Try every spirit . . .

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God . . . (1 John 4:1-2)

Some things Christ followers should seriously consider not doing! Everything fun is not Godly and definitely not innocent. We must do some serious study and then make a Godly decision based upon His Word, and not this world. 

View this about Halloween and decide . . . perhaps after some more research: https://youtu.be/8cz6pUA8ULk

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:1-2)

So, my question today is "Why?

Paul starts out this way in Romans 6. . . 

Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! (Romans 6:1-2)

Then, logically he writes . . .

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace. (Romans 6:12-14)

So, my question today is "Why?" Why do we just keep sinning and justify it? Looking at it as Paul dies here, it is just plain dumb! Paul is adamant when he says, "Certainly not!" 

We are freed from the curse of sin and the punishment of sin, yet we keep running back to it. It really is quite stupid. We are freed from the chains, yet we keep locking ourselves back up in guilt and shame!

Let's pray for one another that we really do our best to present our bodies unto God today and not to sin! Maybe if we take it one day at a time, we can make some progress!

Are we just doing too much?

This is a busy world . . . for adults and teens alike. But maybe, just maybe we are just doing too much! I is a question we must ask ourselves now and then. When we find ourselves with no time to spend with family . . . . not enough time to sit down to eat . . . . not enough time for exercise . . . . not enough time to sleep we should . . . . not enough time for God . . . . well maybe we need to ask:

Are we just doing too much?

Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.” (Mark 4:18-20)

In the parable of the sower, Jesus explains what can happen to those who hear the word but are not focused upon it. Busyness can choke it out and we forget about things of God. Those who take time for the Lord and make Him a priority are fruitful for God.

Where are we today? Let's make some adjustments as we ask the question: Are we just doing too much?

New life

 New life . . . on earth and in Christ for eternity!

Anytime a child is born it is a reminder of the miraculous gift of new life. We may take it for granted, but it is a miracle nonetheless. From conception to birth, it is a work of God and God alone. 

I am praising the Lord today for our seventh grandchild, sixth grandson, and our oldest son's first born. Ir never gets old! I am so proud of our son. He so deserves this chance!

As I ponder life, I cannot forget that God gives everyone a chance at a new birth while we are yet living. As miraculous as a bird of a baby is, being born again of the Holy Spirit, cleansed by the sacrificial blood of Jesus on the cross and His resurrection from the dead, is even more miraculous! How could a perfect God and Creator give Himself for someone like me?

For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit . . . (1 Peter 3:18)

Have you experienced this new life in Christ? Just as exciting as a new baby, but even more so . . . this is about you and eternity. Choose life today!

Celebrate others' successes

 As long as we get God's attention . . . that is all that really matters! How many times have we been overlooked? How many times has someone else received credit for what we have done? How many times has the wrong person received the promotion, the position, or the honor? 

Let's consider Jonathan . . . .

Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan took off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, even to his sword and his bow and his belt. (1 Samuel 18:3-4)

Jonathan was clearly heir to King Saul's throne as his son. Yet he humbly honored David as the rightful one in line to be King as authorized by God. He honored David's success in battle by giving him his robe and weapons. He did not care about who got the attention . . . David deserved it!

What can we learn from this? Allow God to promote whom He chooses. Celebrate  others' successes. Accept where God has us. Live out His design for our lives and no one else's!

There is no need to compare!

Have we ever made someone feel "less than"?

 Ever feel excluded or slighted? Have you felt like the wall flower at the high school dance? Maybe you weren't picked for the team or not chosen to be in the popular group at school? 

These are real feelings and they happen to real people. They are not fun for sure.

However, have you ever thought that you and I may be treating others the same way at times? Have we overlooked someone? Have we ever made someone feel less than? t can happen very easily. We get caught up in the moment and do not realize the one on the outside . . . feeling lonely, unloved, left out.

Today, let's be intentional to include people . . . value people . . . make someone feel worthy. Let's treat others the way we want to be treated!

Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew 7:12)

"Don't I know you from somewhere? Haven't we met before?"

 You ever felt like you knew someone already when your were introduced? "Don't I know you from somewhere? Haven't we met before?"

Well, that is the way it is when we come to know Jesus as our Lord and Savior. You see, He did know us before . . . before we were even in our mother's womb! Now that is something to make your sit back and ponder! Young people especially, read these verses carefully. . . .

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Then said I: “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.” But the Lord said to me: “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ For you shall go to all to whom I send you, And whatever I command you, you shall speak. (Jeremiah 1:5-7)

Since God knew us and has a special plan set out just for us, then we need to do what He intends for us to do . . . or we will be forever spinning our wheels in life! Stop trying to be someone else or living out someone else's plans for you.

Who knows us better than God . . . don't you think it is time we get to know Him better so we better know ourselves?

Is all change good?

 Some things are better left unchanged! Let's face it, we live in an ever-changing world, but is all change good?

While I must admit, we have made a lot of progress in the past fifty years or so, it is not all good! We have realized the ills in our justice system and are finally making changes. Technology has led to better communication with more people almost immediately. We can now travel around the world in a day rather than eighty. Medical advances are conquering illnesses every day.  . . . But is it all good?

Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22)

Paul reminds to test, or examine all things, especially new views and ideas, to see if they are good. The Holy Spirit is our counselor and guide. We must use His wisdom in gaining understanding concerning matters.

Technological advances have their good points, but there is evil present and available. Our justice system is making progress, yet there are still processes in place that discriminate and disenfranchise. Travel may be more efficient and faster, but one accident is capable of killing thousands.  Medical advances are healing more than ever, yet we are finding excuses to do away with lives unwanted. Some are even trying to improve upon biblical traditions . . . imagine that!

Examine all things by the Holy Spirit. Do not be fooled by the new and improved. Hold fast to what has always been good. Satan is still a deceiver . . . and a smart one at that! Is all change good?

good enough . . . popular enough . . . acceptable?

 Am I invisible? Does anyone see me? Am I not good enough . . . popular enough . . . acceptable? God knows and God sees!

Ask this question instead: Why do these things even matter? 

How many of us identify ourselves with what others say or think about me? Is my security in others or in Christ?

Do we really believe that what matters is what God knows about us and not what people think? It is an issue of faith . . . faith in people or faith in the God who created us for His purposes and not our own. I know it's tough to be rejected, neglected, and ignored. I have experienced that on a number of occasions.  However, the only thing that really matters is what God knows about us . . . really!

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:8-10)

Why compare?

God made each of us in a unique way. We all are human beings , yes, but even twins have a unique DNA! We fall into trouble when we compare ourselves with others. We look at others' success and begin to feel insecure and inadequate.

But why???? Why compare?

Many times we have been told what we should do or what we should be. We are compared to others: Why can't you be like __________? Social media, TV, videos and advertisements can cause us to question who we are. Proverbs 18:12 tells us that life and death rests in the tongue. (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2018%3A21&version=NKJV 

Visuals also impact our image of ourselves. Words and images can mold and shape us.

Yet God has a different story for you and me:

I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Psalm 139:14)

How does this change the way we see ourselves?

His will, not mine

God is not a genie in a bottle. He doesn't give us our every wish and prayer . . . and if He does, it is not always right away. We would have everything our way in our timing. Yet God does not promise that. He does, however, promise us a peace and a comfort that goes beyond understanding. We can be at peace on the inside when all craziness and unanswered questions surround us.

Seeking Good simply for our own desires will never be satisfying. Wrong and selfish motives will never produce a reward from God. We are told to seek His face . . . His presence . . . His will . . . not His hand. When we find ourselves resting in His will we find that abundant life . . . life beyond this world.

These familiar verses will remind us that God knows what we need. We have to learn to trust Him!

“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. (Matthew 6:31-33)

"Can we all just get along?"

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. (2 Corinthians 13:11)

Can we all just get along? Rodney King asked this during the riots in LA in May of 1992, after civil unrest due to his brutal public beating by LA police officers. Thirty years later, we are still struggling for fairness, equality, justice, and harmony. For better or worse, this battle did not start in 1992, in the 1960's or with  most recent BLM protests. This has been going on since Cain and Abel! Yet the word of God still cries out . . . 

If we truly desire to live in "full restoration" as Paul wrote with the instruction of God the Holy Spirit, then it must begin inwardly. We as followers of Jesus Christ must strive to live in harmony with the Spirit of God within our own heart and soul. As we agree with God, then His Spirit will begin to pour out in our relationships with others.

Whether it is within families, local communities, schools, churches or a Nation, oneness must begin with God! He alone can heal the scars and brokenness caused by sin. So how do we do it . . . here it is very simply:

He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)

Throwback Thursday

Throwback Thursday . . . Let's go waaayyy back!

.

You cannot go further back than God! He was in the past before there was even a present, because He is eternal. We as finite human beings just cannot grasp that, we just have to believe it. It is the only way this world can make any sense. God has all the answers to the questions we seek. Before there was anything, there was God.

The really cool thing is that Jesus wants us to experience this timelessness with Him in eternity. Read this:

Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given to Me [as Your gift to Me], may be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, because You loved Me before the foundation of the world. (John 17:24)

Imagine . . . one day we will be timeless in eternity! Now that's going way back. Talk about a throwback!!!

Primary colors

What's in a color? What are the primary colors? No, not the primary colors of the classroom, but of life . . . eternal life?

Well, if we are taking about the Bible and the Gospel message . . . a lot! See the link below . . .

https://images.app.goo.gl/FxfJmvxHm1rLRuRd7

We all have a dark heart at birth; marred by a sinful nature. We are born with a desire to SIN! (Romans 3:23)

But my Jesus . . . yes MY Jesus . . . came to earth in the form of a man to sacrifice His life and share His precious and sinless blood for each of us who might accept Him. (Romans 5:8)

Once we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we are instructed to be baptized to publicly state are relationship with Jesus Christ. (Mark 16:16)

Thus we are washed, or cleansed from sin. Our heart is now purified by the blood of Jesus! (Romans 10:13)

We are then instructed to grow in Christ and the knowledge of our faith by reading the bile, attending church, and fellowshipping with like believers. (2 Peter 3:18)

Then one day, we look forward to being with Christ for eternity . . . walking upon streets of gold! (Revelation 21:21)

God's advice/Godly advice/God's plans

Who is leading whom? As we make plans for our lives, to whom do we turn for advice? Have we really considered the Word of God?

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you [who are willing to learn] with My eye upon you. (Psalm 32:8)

 . . . . and to make it your ambition to live quietly and peacefully, and to mind your own affairs and work with your hands, just as we directed you, so that you will behave properly toward outsiders [exhibiting good character, personal integrity, and moral courage worthy of the respect of the outside world], and be dependent on no one and in need of nothing [be self-supporting]. (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12)

As a coach, mentor, teacher, dad and grandfather, I have witnessed many young people make some rather rash decisions and plans. They have followed some bad advice, ran after pipe dreams, and found themselves wandering even into adulthood. Many never consider God's advice much less Godly advice!

There is much said in scriptures concerning career choices. After all, God designed each us in unique ways with unique physical and spiritual gifts. While dreams of becoming a professional athlete, serving in medical careers, achieving a law career and the like are admirable, they are not for everyone! I can recall my daughter wanted to become a nurse until she realized blood 🩸was involved! 😟

There is always room for the plumber, the HVAC specialist, the painter, the mechanic, the carpenter, the barber/hairstylist, and yes, even the pastor and missionary! What are your specially designed gifts from God? Have you pursued them? So pursue your dreams, just make sure they are God's plans for you as well! 

Rest well

Ahhhhhh . . . a good night's sleep, knowing your were able to rest well? Doesn't it feel good to wake up refreshed and satisfied? 😴💤

The sleep of a laboring man is sweet, whether he eats little or much, but the fullness of the rich will not let him sleep.(Ecclesiastes 5:12)

This sounds a bit confusing at first glance; a man who works hard, even though he may be poor can sleep well. But think about it a bit. . . . .

Hard work is satisfying. Hard work is tiring. One who works hard will not waste his efforts either.

However, the man who is always striving for more will never be able to rest. he will always be working to make more . . . buy more . . . obtain more. Even in his sleep he will be restless wondering from where the next thing will come. Even the things he owns will require much attention.

Let's learn from Solomon. Work hard. Be satisfied with God allows. Rest well!

How can I ever succeed

How can I ever succeed when I am challenged from every angle? Ever ask yourself this question? Whether young or old, in this world we face disappointments day after day.

King David was declared King by God yet had to wait years to see it though. Along the way his life was threatened by enemies from every camp, even his own family, yet he persevered. (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Samuel%2019&version=NIV)

Moses was asked to lead a people enslaved by a powerful world leader and had no real weapons but the Spirit of God. He couldn't even speak clearly. (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%204:9-11&version=NKJV) 

Even the great theologian Paul, faced threats day in and day out, because of his commitment to the Lord. (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2011%3A16-33&version=NIV)

Our lives may not be as eventful as these mentioned above, but our challenges are great enough. We think so anyway! So whether we are a husband and father trying our best to lead a family, a single mom struggling to make ends meet, or a young student-athlete working hard every day to reach his or her goals, God knows! He cares! 

We may seem to be coming up short day after day, but we have to trust Him . . . trust His ways . . . trust His plan. The people mentioned above suffered many failures for sure. However, ultimately they were are are rewarded by God. the Bible says that joy comes in the morning . . . after the darkest of nights. The reward is waiting . . . keep pressing! Never ever give up!

Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life;
Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:1-5)

How do you have to trust God today?

Where is He?

Can't find God? Can't see Him? Can't feel Him? You want to trust Him but where is He? Why won't He just do something?

.

Let's face it, times can get really tough nowadays. With everyone trying to come back from Covid regulations, there are some real fears and real questions. Whom do we trust?

While it is true that times are trying, God has always been right here! We have taken our attention away from Him and put it on ourselves and our situation. If we simply focus upon God, we will see Him right in front of our eyes. We will feel Him in our hearts. Seek and we shall find . . .

To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul . O my God, I trust in You; Let me not be ashamed; Let not my enemies triumph over me. Indeed, let no one who waits on You be ashamed; Let those be ashamed who deal treacherously without cause. Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation. On You I wait all the day. (Psalm 25: 1-5)

Won't He do it? Just try God!

 Many times we wonder if God can even work things out. We struggle. We fuss and fight. Many times we do not even include God until after our plans fail. When we do ask God, we may give up before He can work. But why? Do we really believe that God can do it? 

Won't He do it? Well, just try God for once . . . and wait Him out! He may just be ready to change things if we will only believe He can do it . . . and wait for Him to act in His timing! Consider the woman in the passages below:

Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment. For she said, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well.” Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the affliction. (Mark 5:25-29)

First, we must have faith that God is Who He says He is. Secondly, we must believe He will do what we need to be done. Finally, we must wait Him out . . . His timing

and His will! 

Won't He do it? Just try God!

Does God really see each of us?

I know we all hear it, but does God really see each of us? How is that possible? Well . . . He is God, that's how!

He sees us in all of our moods. He sees us in all of our pain and distress. He sees us when we secretly worry and fear about things that are out of our control. He sees through our fake smiles, fake laughs and all the other ways we hide our real feelings. He sees us as we go through abuses, both physically and mentally. He sees it all and feels our heart cries. 

These are some awesome words from the Psalmist David: 

What can mere man do to me? All day long they twist my words and say hurtful things; All their thoughts are against me for evil. They attack, they hide and lurk, they watch my steps, as they have [expectantly] waited to take my life. Cast them out because of their wickedness. In anger bring down the peoples, O God! You have taken account of my wanderings; Put my tears in Your bottle. Are they not recorded in Your book? (Psalm 56:5-8)

David knew God cared. He could see it! He could feel it! The more we get to know and see God, the more we realize just how much He sees and He cares! Make it personal!

real challenges

 Anger . . . depression . . . anxiety . . . fears . . . broken dreams . . . grief . . . empty promises . . . doubt? 

Welcome to the world of 2022! After a few years of Covid-19 restrictions, presidential pitfalls, and economic woes, many in our world are facing emotional and physical challenges . . . real challenges!

We can easily add to the ones listed above. They are real for believers and non-believers alike.

The difference is what we do about it. Do we linger in the doubts and fears or seek the One who knows all of our troubles. (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2014%3A27&version=NIV) God cares for each and every one of us. (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2015%3A9&version=NIV)

We do have to see after God however. We cannot simply wait and wallow in pity. Even if we do not want to, we must seek after God. Seek Him through worship . . . morning and night! 

Blessed [gratefully praised and adored] be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort, who comforts and encourages us in every trouble so that we will be able to comfort and encourage those who are in any kind of trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)