Quiet obedience

 

A lifetime of blessings rolls on....

 

Glorify His NAME!

Our God has chosen you. We pray that he will make you worthy of his choice. We pray he will make every good thing you want to do come true. We pray that he will do this by his power. We pray that he will make perfect all that you have done by faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus will receive glory through what you have done. We also pray that you will receive glory through what he has done. We pray all these things in keeping with the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12)

Ahhhh, there IS something about that name . . . Jesus Christ . . . our Lord and Savior and our King and Ruler. We live to bring honor and glory to His name . . . that others may come to know Him and praise Him for Who He is and what He does. 

But do we . . .?

Do people see Jesus when they see us? Do they hear His words when they hear us speak? Do they wander why we react so differently when others mistreat us? Do they know us by His love ad grace?

Just as our parents desire for us to bring honor to our family name, we who are called by the name CHRISTian, are to bring honor and glory to that name . . .Jesus Christ! Our words, our actions, our thoughts and plans . . . all should be to the glory of God. 

Let's take a look at our life and be sure we are honoring our Lord and Savior daily! In the name of Jesus . . . we do all things and all things will be well  . . . at least with our souls!

As we honor God, He in turn one day will honor us as we stand before Him.

Never compromise . . .

O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding the profane and idle babbling and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge by professing it some have strayed concerning the faith. (1 Timothy 6:20-21)

As Paul is advising Timothy in pastoring the churches in Ephesus, he warns him not to give in to the knowledge of the day. We can learn form these verses today. We hear so much (even as recent as yesterday) of church leaders, denominations, and others twisting and adapting the early church doctrines and teachings and traditions into modern philosophies and doctrine. Compromise is never good when it comes to our faith! Never compromise!

You see, there are the basic doctrines of the faith and there are the traditions, or teachings and practices, of the early church. If it is not written in stone, then we look to the early ways the followers of Christ worshipped and lived. In today's CHRISTian culture, we find compromise in both areas . . . doctrine and practices!

As Paul warned Timothy and we are warned today . . . both young and old . . . never compromise! It becomes a slippery slope we sometimes cannot climb back up.

 . . . in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created . . . (1 Timothy 4:1-3)

So again, do not give in to today's culture of compromise and casual CHRISTianity. Be warned as well of those who are advocating a legalistic approach to our relationship with Christ. Jesus freed us to follow Him, not the world!

 Never compromise!

Don't worry about everyone else . . .Follow Jesus!

Jesus spoke to him a third time. He asked, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt bad because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He answered, “Lord, you know all things. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. What I’m about to tell you is true. When you were younger, you dressed yourself. You went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands. Someone else will dress you. Someone else will lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to point out how Peter would die. His death would bring glory to God. Then Jesus said to him, “Follow me!” Peter turned around. He saw that the disciple Jesus loved was following them. He was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper. He had said, “Lord, who is going to hand you over to your enemies?” When Peter saw that disciple, he asked, “Lord, what will happen to him?” Jesus answered, “Suppose I want him to remain alive until I return. What does that matter to you? You must follow me.” (John 21:-17-22)

I needed this reminder! Can I be real for a minute? 

Often, I am burdened by what others are doing or what I could be doing.  I know the gifts I have and at times I compare myself to others . . . and in all honesty, believe I could be doing a better job! Have you ever felt that way?

I could coach better that that guy. I was better than that when I played . . . how did he get to be a pro?  Why won't they pick me for that position? I am more qualified and experienced. What would it be like to be him? How in the world did he or she get that job?

Then, like Peter, the Lord reminds me that what He has for me is for me! (Proverbs 16:9) While I may think another position, another career, or even another life would be so much better for me here and now, God knows much better what is best for me! I must follow Him and His plan, not someone else's.

Slowly but surely, I am learning this. It's about time, don't you think? I guess by the time He calls me home I will fully understand! 

As to the Lord . . .

 

Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God.  And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,  knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.  But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality. (Colossians 3:22-25)

As to the Lord  . . . . what an easy thing to say and pray, but so challenging to live out day to day. As Christ-followers, we are to obey law enforcement, the government, supervisors, teachers, and parents for sure . . . . yet only as it pleases God! When the law or rules come into conflict with the Word of God, we are to obey God. 

I think we all agree with that premise, would you agree?

However, what about why we obey? Do we find ourselves working hard at the job, doing all of our assignments, or even obeying laws to honor God, or to receive the applause of people? If we are honoring God, then why do you and I get so upset when people do not see our efforts, approve of our work, or reward us with special recognition?  

Ouch . . . that hurts! I am talking about us now . . . you and me! Let's take a hard look at our why!

Why do we do what we do every day . . . to please God or man?

A tribute to Rev/Dr. King: A believers responsibility to the poor.

In honor of Rev/Dr. King, I thought it would be appropriate to reference scripture as to a believers responsibility to the poor. As Dr. King's son talked about another dream (see link below), we should be challenged to care for the poor, the homeless, the hungry and those feeling alone and depressed.  Especially during this pandemic, with so many more experiencing poverty, hunger, unemployment and eviction notices, we as a CHURCH BODY are called by God to sacrifice and serve. It is not Washington's job to provide, but to protect. It is our job to provide, care, comfort and LOVE.💔 We have failed greatly! What will we do? 

My wife and I (Carroll Family Outreach) are missionaries/teachers coaching up teens to serve the immediate community and others, so we can ultimately reach others for Christ. The teens have served several families with food baskets this past Thanksgiving and sponsored fifteen children with CHRISTmas gifts this past year.  Our goal is to spend several days serving a local community this Spring/Summer in a community outreach. You may support the work through $Cashapp at $tadcarr.

Please prayerfully read the scriptures below and take a close and intimate assessment of how we have reacted recently. Have we been selfish or sacrificial . . . helping or hoarding . . . concerned or callous . . .? 

 

“[Jesus] stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.’”               (Luke 4:17-19)

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“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:8-9)

“Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.”(1 Timothy 6:18)

 

“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17)

 

“Jesus replied, ‘Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.'”(Matthew 8:20)

 

Listen to the son of Dr. King: 

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/18/opinion/mlk-income-inequality.html 

God bless you as ! you give . . . .

Join us as we coach up teens for a life of service! $tadcarr!!!

But He was asleep . . .

 Now when He got into a boat, His disciples followed Him. And suddenly a great tempest arose on the sea, so that the boat was covered with the waves. But He was asleep. Then His disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!” But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. So the men marveled, saying, “Who can this be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” Matthew 8:23-27)

Is it not  safe to say we are in the middle of a storm today . . .whipped by the winds of the pandemic . . .tossed up and down by news of a vaccine, yet worsening conditions in hospitals . . . fearful of not only today's news, but tomorrow's as well?  Some would say that Jesus is asleep . . .not present or not involved. Where is Jesus for you? 

There is encouraging news . . .He is right in the boat with us . . .caring. loving, protecting and providing. Why do I say this, because I know for myself!

“Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to You on the water.” “Come,” Jesus said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:28-31)

Jesus is asking His people to out only reach out to Him, but others as well. We must trust Him more than ever. He is reaching out to each of us to assure us of His love . . . in the middle of this stormy pandemic. We too have to keep serving, sacrificing and trusting God to provide. Press on. Keep living. We may be isolated and restricted, but we do not have to hide! 

I have been blown away by the love and care of the Body of Christ just recently. We have asked for support to serve food during Thanksgiving and toys, clothing and more food for CHRISTmas. So many gave from their hearts and we were able to spread that love to many in need. We were simply the hands, feet, and van of the Body . . .you were the heart! Even today, many of you are meeting precious needs so we and others can keep pressing forward! 

God is not asleep! He is alive, awake and aware of all that is going on . . .thank you for reinforcing that fact! Oh, we of little faith . . .why do we doubt?

Be submissive to one another!

Likewise, you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,  casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.(1 Peter 5:5-7)

Ok, so you thought it was only wives who had to be submissive. (Ephesians 5:22) No sir! We ALL need to humble ourselves and submit humbly to one another. Being a leader involves humility. There is always one over another in authority......ultimately God!

While it is wonderful to seek leadership positions, remain humble. Everyone cannot be in charge. Everyone is not equipped either. However, if we feel as though we know more or know better, remain humble and obedient, allowing God to work in His timing!

We all are accountable to God! He knows. He sees. He cares. Trust in Him....not man!

 

 

saved daily by His grace

 

By the law, I died as far as the law is concerned. I died so that I might live for God.  I have been crucified with Christ. I don’t live any longer, but Christ lives in me. Now I live my life in my body by faith in the Son of God. He loved me and gave himself for me.  I do not get rid of the grace of God. What if a person could become right with God by obeying the law? Then Christ died for nothing!(Galatians 2:19-21)

Paul (Saul) was once a respected, educated, powerful and popular Pharisee. Then he met Jesus, or should I say Jesus met him! He realized he was never anything without Jesus and never would be. Saul died and now Paul lived: rather Jesus lived through Paul. 

Whatever we do, whatever we accomplish, however much we earn or accumulate, it is nothing . . . .We are nothing without having the One Who died for us as our Lord and Savior! It took me decades to come to that realization. Over thirty years in church, it took tragedy and loneliness outside of church to allow Jesus in.

After nearly thirty of life with Christ, I am still humbled by his grace and my stupidity! Like Paul, I finally realize it's all about Him, not me! Still a sinner, being saved daily by His grace! Lord willing, I will sin less and less until that day He declares me sinless!

Am I "worth it"?

 Ever wonder if you are " worth it"? Are you really needed, appreciated, even noticed? I do at times. I know my family needs and appreciates me, of course. Yet in other scenarios, I wonder . . . .

I often wonder what people will do when I am gone. Will I be noticed after a while? Will I be just a vapor in the wind . . .  just another brick in the wall?

Well, if I look to others for my self worth I will indeed become depressed and feel a bit useless. I have lived long enough, even as a CHRISTian, to realize people will use you, put you on a shelf until needed, even place you in a trash heap when done with their purpose for you. 

But God. . . . We are so valuable to Him. So valuable that He exchanged His life for ours on the cross so we could be with Him forever! That's worth! Just focus on Daddy and pleasing Him. We have to change how we think . . . .

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.(Romans 12:2)

Worn out....Tired.....Isaias.....Isaiah!

Even young people become worn out and get tired.  Even the best of them trip and fall. But those who trust in the Lord  will receive new strength. They will fly as high as eagles. They will run and not get tired.  They will walk and not grow weak.(Isaiah 40:30-31)

We live in a day when many are simply doing what they believe is right. Among the pandemic, we still have people deciding it is ok not to protect themselves. We have sports and athletes trying to return to normal with uncertainty and fears. We have politicians trying to play doctor and doctors playing politicians. School officials are being controlled by parents and politics, afraid of any decision with risks. Even within my own family . . . a CHRISTian family, we are experiencing doubt, fear, uneasiness, poor decision making, and from our older kids, just plain ole ignorance! 

And now a tropical storm . . . named Isaias!!!!! How cute! So let me consider Isaiah . . . Chapter 40, verses 30-31.

Yes I am worn out! Oh, I am TIRED! I need some spiritual strength for sure. I know only God can provide it because so many are so lost today. I need to stay focused upon 

Him. 

So today, when many are focused on the storm Isaias, I choose to focus upon the words of God from the prophet Isaias (Isaiah). 

I choose then One Who calms the storm....not the storm!

It's what God knows that matters!

Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him. And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, “Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands!  Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.” Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching. (Mark 6: 1-6)

Ever wonder why folks sometimes doubt you, look at you in disbelief, have a different opinion of you when you are not in their presence? I often used to feel that way! Now it really doesn't matter that much. It's what God knows that matters, not what man may say!

Growing up, I was a sports loving fanatic! I played, coached, watched, lived and breathed sports . . . baseball, football, basketball, bowling, street hockey . . . you name it. If we could play it I did and I had an opinion about it too! Well into my 30's this was my life. Then Jesus picked me on His team.

I was still a sports junkey and played and coached, but the anger was gone, the win-all-cost attitude was replaced with do-your-best-at-all-times way of life. I still loved sports but I now lived and played for Him, not me. Guess what? People did not like it, did not believe it, or just plain would not accept it! Even believers kept me in the shadows. . . some still do . . . not quite trusting me! Oh well . . . .

I was not the cookie-cutter teen back then and I am not a cookie- cutter believer today. When God saved me, He changed my heart, not my personality! He saved me from within and welcomed me into a relationship with him, just as I am! He now uses me for His purposes, not others'. While many do not understand, I have come to understand it is OK, because some do! What God has for me is for me and for His glory!

They rejected Jesus . . . even family . . . why not me too?

asking the Lord

You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.(John 15:16)

Just when I think I am something special, God reminds me that it is He Who is the only really special thing in this life!  Oh sure, I have a special, beautiful and precious bride, special children and grandchildren indeed, and what we have as a family is indeed special! However, God chose to save me for His work and for His glory and for others to see Him at work in me, not my work for Him! I am what and who I am today because of what God has done!

Three years ago I began asking the Lord

to allow our youngest son to attend Liberty University. I knew the leg work I would have to do as far as letter writing, interviews, etc, to walk out this faith in God. Not many beloved me when I said, "God will do it."

You see, we adopted Michael at birth in 2002. We named him Michael Gerard (gift from God and mighty in battle) while He was still being formed in his birth mother's womb. We dedicated him at Woodstream Church at six weeks and He was saved at five. He has attended CHRISTian schools his entire life with the help of God and His people: God even granting me degrees to teach at those schools!

Now, three years later, Michael has graduated high school and has registered at Liberty University for the fall of 2020! He has provided what we have asked! God has granted my prayer!!!

Lord, now work in and through L.U., its instructors, the staff, and the students to prepare Michael for what you have planned for him! He is and always has been Yours!!!!

To My Students.....

 In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another, He began to say to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.  For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known.  Therefore whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops. “And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.  But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!  “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God.  But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God. But he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God.(Luke 12:1-9)

 I normally write something different each day....new scripture....new thoughts....new insight. But today, I am copying my post from June 5, 2020. However, I am writing to my students, especially my graduating seniors,  as they face a new and challenging world . .  . and prayerfully and changing world!

Demonstrations/Fear/Injustice? God Cares! Yes, today. . .  BLACK LIVES MATTER!

How would Jesus address the crowds? We have can example here in Luke. People were fed up with the "system" . . . both the Roman oppression and the Pharisees' laws and regulations. People wanted change. Yet Jesus urged patience and faith. . . not in the hypocrisy of government, political parties, or even individuals, but in God!

In the bible, there were times when lepers mattered most, when the blind mattered most and when the repentant sinner next to Jesus on the cross mattered most. One lost sheep matters more than the ninety-nine in the fold when it is wondering!

Right now, BLACK LIVES MATTER the most . . . because my brothers, my sisters, my family members, my students,  are at risk! Yet we cannot put our trust in Republicans, Democrats, Conservatives or Liberals! We must place our trust in God alone, Who controls our souls!

The injustice in our Nation is a result of fear, selfishness, ignorance, and most of all the systematic subtle and not-so-subtle process of racism and discrimination. Once my white eyes were opened to it, it has been plain to see! Yet even more so, my spiritual eyes have been opened even wider!

Though really just a nobody, I seek reconciliation. Many times I walk alone, especially among people who look like me, because of how I have been treated. Yet, I attempt to model a life of acceptance, embracing all cultures. I seek unity of believers first, desiring some real conversation and honest feelings shared. Without anger and bitterness, I desire to be one with my brothers and sisters. I will never understand, but I must hurt with those who have been hurt! I can plead for justice for and with those who experience injustice! As a child of the 1960's, I still have horrible images of the streets of Baltimore and to this day I cannot understand why! I do not want that for you!

Students, especially seniors, these are changing times for sure! I have done my best to present you with an opportunity to know Christ and to see things from a biblical perspective. It is challenging for sure. This year, you have lost out on dances, dinners, trips, parties, and even senior prank days! Yet you also have been able to witness a Nation of varying cultures.... young and old, black and white, male and female, yes, even gay and straight, gathering together and saying, "No more!" 

I love each and everyone of you. I will always be here for you. I still long for the day, as Dr. King said, when we all will be judged by the content of our character and not the color of our skin. It will come! I challenge you to continue, but be sure when others see and hear you, they first see Christ! Only His grace, mercy, and love can heal these deep wounds! I walk together, arm in arm, heart to heart and soul to soul with you all because. . .

BLACK LIVES MATTER TO GOD AND TO ME!!!!

Coffee with the Lord....Holy Grounds!

And when forty years had passed, an Angel [c]of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire in a bush, in the wilderness of Mount Sinai.  When Moses saw it, he marveled at the sight; and as he drew near to observe, the voice of the Lord came to him,  saying, ‘I am the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ And Moses trembled and dared not look. ‘Then the Lord said to him, “Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.(Acts 7:30-33)

Coffee with the Lord....Every morning I have a routine. It's been similar each morning form the past at last twenty years or so. I brew some coffee ( now k-cups rather than a pot) as instructed in the bible. (He-brews!) I thinnest and smell the grounds as they are roasting into my mug (not a cup!) I then open my bible to receive the fire of His Word to teach me. Thank God He is still an all-consuming fire yet He has mercy upon me                                           even this day!

God's Word is HOLY! Whenever we sit under His teaching it is a sacred time. His Word and His authority has not changed. He is immutable! Moses realized it. (Exodus 3:5) Stephen again mentions it here in Acts 7. I am so grateful the fire keeps burning , convicting, and purifying me! Yet He has not consumed me. His mercy is new every day!

Let's remain humble. God is HOLY. We must now at His feet. We must fall prostrate knowing He is Almighty God, King, Savior and Judge. When we read His Word we are on HOLY GROUNDS.

Here am I, SEND ME!

In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple. Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one cried to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!” And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke. So I said: “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man 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.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth with it, and said:“ Behold, this has touched your lips; Your iniquity is taken away, and your sin purged.”  Also 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 6:1-8)

These verses changed my life! Sitting in the church pew, newly saved, eyes wide opened and heart on fire some twenty-eight years ago, I heard these verses clearly . . . . "Here am I, SEND ME!"

I had seen and heard from God. As He spoke to Isaiah, He was speaking to me! I walked down and told the waiting minister that God had called me to serve Him full time! I knew my calling and I was answering. Jesus said " follow Me" and I responded with a "yes!"

Twenty-eight years later the answer is still "yes!" The fire is still burning! God is still speaking . . . still working . . . still meeting needs. Hundreds of souls saved . . . thousands touched by His love in our home, on the streets, on mission trips on the mainland and over the seas.

Until He calls for me, I cannot . . . . I will not  . . . . Quit! God be glorified!!!

Keep it movin'!

Do not be too shaken by disbelief . . .keep it movin'!

When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ. But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”  And he departed from there and entered the house of a certain man named Justus, one who worshiped God, whose house was next door to the synagogue. Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized. Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;  for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. (Acts 18:5-11)

We live in an age when there are many religious options, but only one Truth.  Unfortunately, many will choose the more comfortable options rather than the straight and narrow Truth. After all, it a highway to hell but only a long and narrow stairway to heaven. While the highway can be at a high speed and thrill-packed, the stairway can at times be a bit lonely and tiring. Yet we must keep it movin'.

If one rejects the Truth, we simply move on to the next.  Like Paul, if we are ridiculed in one setting, we just may be welcomed in the next. We share the Gospel and live it out in the open to honor the Lord, not to gain fame, recognition or acclaim.  Stay encouraged. Forge ahead. Do not turn back. Keep it movin'!

On trial, but would we be convicted?

On trial, but would we be convicted? Is there enough evidence?

But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, saying, “What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name.” So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.  For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done. (Acts 4:15-21)

Peter and John were out on trial for preaching about Jesus and healing in His name. The evidence was right before them in person. Yet even when commanded not to continue, they boldly said they could not help but to continue!  They were convicted of living a life witness for Christ! However, they were also convicted to continue . . . .

What about you and me? Could a counsel of judges and lawyers call witnesses to convict us of living a CHRIST-centered life? Would we continue even if threatened with jail or worse? Hummmmm.......

We are on trial daily, but are we convicted?

For my young folks:making mention of you in my prayers

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.(Ephesians 1:15-21)

Having a burden for young souls is not an easy calling! Many love working with youth as teachers, coaches, tutors, counselors and then like. All this is commendable and appreciated. Lord knows our kids need folks who care for and develop their talents and gifts. However, having a burden for a youth's soul is not only a privilege, but a real heart-tugging burden . . . burden I gladly embrace yet often struggle to carry out.

I never really know a young heart and soul. I can only see the physical changes and hear the verbal expressions. God alone knows the heart . . . the soul! My burden is to challenge them to really seek and know God in His mercy, power, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, and yes, His discipline. Many times I walk alone in this struggle as even the wise and learned of the world don't see it. The Lord allows me to see into their hearts and I see hurt, doubt, pain, anger,and fear. I hear questions of self-doubt, expressions of anxiety and fear, words of anger and lots of "why" and "how".  I get late night and early morning emails from former and current students alike with questions concerning their life's doubts and decisions. I don't always have the answers . . . but God does!

Please pray along with me as I seek to meet their needs and show them Christ! Souls are in the balance!!!!