As this Monday unfolds what do you have on your agenda? What things do you need to tackle? What has the bulk of your attention and focus today?
What does God have for you today? What purposes has He set before you to believe and achieve? You know good and well when God has a purpose Satan will try and oppose that purpose in your life. He comes to make havoc and declare war against the purposes and people of God. His tactics and assaults are relentless.
Maybe from your vantage point all you can see is overwhelming obstacles. Everything may seem against you. You may feel there is no hope. No clear path to victory. If so I have a passage I would like you to read about another man that felt overwhelmed.
2 Kings 6:13-18 (NKJV)
13 So he said, "Go and see where he is, that I may send and get him." And it was told him, saying, "Surely he is in Dothan."
14 Therefore he sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city.
15 And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, "Alas, my master! What shall we do?"
16 So he answered, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them."
17 And Elisha prayed, and said, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
18 So when the Syrians came down to him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, and said, "Strike this people, I pray, with blindness." And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.
The backdrop of this story is the Syrian King wanted Elisha captured. God kept revealing to Elisha the military plans of the Syrian army and throwing a monkey wrench into everything. So one night a unit was sent to capture Elisha. Elisha's servant awoke to find they were surrounded. Elisha had a different perspective. He had God's perspective.
What is your perspective on your current circumstances? What do your eyes tell you? I pray the simple prayer of Elisha over you. "Lord, please open their eyes that they may see from your perspective."
From God's point of view things do not look so hopeless. From Heaven God sees the truth of your circumstances. He sees the cause and effects. He sees the outcome. He most definitely sees you too. I hope and pray God would open your eyes to see what He sees so clearly. Then you would not have cause to worry and be anxious. Then your faith would be strengthened because you would see God is in control.
What looked like impossible odds to the servant in reality meant an improbable victory. The army that surrounded Elisha in truth was surrounded by the army of God. God outmaneuvered and outflanked the enemy forces who thought they had the upper hand.
Not only that, God answered Elisha's prayer and struck the whole Syrian army blind that day. They became helpless in one fell swoop.
What God did for Elisha and his servant He is more than capable of doing for you too. So again I pray, "Lord please open their eyes that they may see what you see. In Jesus name amen."
Monday, April 29, 2019
Sunday, April 28, 2019
Faithful Unto Death
Every five minutes six Christians are murdered around the world for following Jesus. In the time it takes me to write this 36 followers of Jesus will be martyred. Loving and serving Jesus will cost them everything. Does it cost you and me anything?
I am sobered this morning after reading stories of people who are persecuted for getting saved and becoming disciples of Jesus. One man who turned to Jesus from Hinduism had his wife taken from him and given to another man. He got fired from his job. Neighbors beat him repeatedly and ran him off from where he lived. Even his family tried to convince him to recant his faith and return to Hinduism. He responded, "Christ changed me and I cannot forsake Him for anything."
That is a far cry from people in the American church. They forsake Jesus in multiple ways by choosing other priorities they give their time and allegiance to over Christ. Sports, fishing, hunting, shopping, sleep, video games, travel, family just to name a few.
The Smyrna church suffered. You can read about that church in the book of Revelation. They were a persecuted church. Persecuted by the Roman government, pagan idolaters and the Jews. Out of the seven churches identified in Revelation Smyrna is one of only two churches not rebuked by Jesus.
Revelation 2:8-11 (NKJV)
8 "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, 'These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life:
9 I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death." '
The Smyrna believers were warned that they would be tested and even thrown in prison. Then Jesus exhorted them to be faithful unto death.
In America we take little thought that our faith in Jesus might cost us something. It costs some Christians bakers because they refused to customize a wedding cake for a homosexual couple. They lost their business in a long legal battle. It costs 26 people their lives and 20 others bullet wounds on Nov 5, 2017 at FBC Sutherland Springs, TX. It cost Rachel Scott her life in the Columbine Massacre. It cost Anatram a bullet to the head because he trusted Christ for salvation along with his wife and five children. He got dragged from home and found dead the next day with a note attached warning people not to turn away from Hinduism. Anatram was martyred but He is profiting in heaven today with His Savior.
Even in the United States people are turning against Christ and Christians. More and more religious freedoms are taken away secretly. No group is hated more, intimidated by the powerful and censored more than Christians. We are mocked. The mainstream media often refuses to report abuses done to Christians. Strong Christians are slandered. THIS WORLD HATES JESUS AND JESUS FOLLOWERS. This is nothing new.
First century Christians suffered. They felt the sting of persecution even unto death. Jesus' challenge to the Smyrna church included, "Be faithful unto death."
That is a good word for all Jesus followers. BE FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH. Whether death comes from suffering resulting from natural causes, a terrible disease or a violent death from persecutors we are all exhorted to be faithful unto death. Our brothers and sisters in persecuted nations experience this. They will not forsake Jesus even when it costs them their health and life. What about us? Do we love Jesus that much? What would it take for us to forsake Him. Anatram gave his life. Ssuubi said he would not forsake Jesus for anything. Even after being beaten repeatedly he still goes door to door witnessing to people about his Savior. Would we do the same? It may come to that one day. If not in our lifetimes certainly in the near future persecution will intensify. Even then we are to be faithful unto death.
I am sobered this morning after reading stories of people who are persecuted for getting saved and becoming disciples of Jesus. One man who turned to Jesus from Hinduism had his wife taken from him and given to another man. He got fired from his job. Neighbors beat him repeatedly and ran him off from where he lived. Even his family tried to convince him to recant his faith and return to Hinduism. He responded, "Christ changed me and I cannot forsake Him for anything."
That is a far cry from people in the American church. They forsake Jesus in multiple ways by choosing other priorities they give their time and allegiance to over Christ. Sports, fishing, hunting, shopping, sleep, video games, travel, family just to name a few.
The Smyrna church suffered. You can read about that church in the book of Revelation. They were a persecuted church. Persecuted by the Roman government, pagan idolaters and the Jews. Out of the seven churches identified in Revelation Smyrna is one of only two churches not rebuked by Jesus.
Revelation 2:8-11 (NKJV)
8 "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, 'These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life:
9 I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death." '
The Smyrna believers were warned that they would be tested and even thrown in prison. Then Jesus exhorted them to be faithful unto death.
In America we take little thought that our faith in Jesus might cost us something. It costs some Christians bakers because they refused to customize a wedding cake for a homosexual couple. They lost their business in a long legal battle. It costs 26 people their lives and 20 others bullet wounds on Nov 5, 2017 at FBC Sutherland Springs, TX. It cost Rachel Scott her life in the Columbine Massacre. It cost Anatram a bullet to the head because he trusted Christ for salvation along with his wife and five children. He got dragged from home and found dead the next day with a note attached warning people not to turn away from Hinduism. Anatram was martyred but He is profiting in heaven today with His Savior.
Even in the United States people are turning against Christ and Christians. More and more religious freedoms are taken away secretly. No group is hated more, intimidated by the powerful and censored more than Christians. We are mocked. The mainstream media often refuses to report abuses done to Christians. Strong Christians are slandered. THIS WORLD HATES JESUS AND JESUS FOLLOWERS. This is nothing new.
First century Christians suffered. They felt the sting of persecution even unto death. Jesus' challenge to the Smyrna church included, "Be faithful unto death."
That is a good word for all Jesus followers. BE FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH. Whether death comes from suffering resulting from natural causes, a terrible disease or a violent death from persecutors we are all exhorted to be faithful unto death. Our brothers and sisters in persecuted nations experience this. They will not forsake Jesus even when it costs them their health and life. What about us? Do we love Jesus that much? What would it take for us to forsake Him. Anatram gave his life. Ssuubi said he would not forsake Jesus for anything. Even after being beaten repeatedly he still goes door to door witnessing to people about his Savior. Would we do the same? It may come to that one day. If not in our lifetimes certainly in the near future persecution will intensify. Even then we are to be faithful unto death.
Friday, April 26, 2019
Serve
Matthew 20:28 (NKJV)
28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."
It would seem a lot of people prefer to be served rather than to serve others. People don't mind serving when everyone is watching and it looks good. Like on a mission trip. Like building a home for Habitat For Humanity and the cameras capture the moment. Like doing something for the purpose of applauded by others. What about the times when nobody is watching. What about those times when nobody notices. Those things done in secret behind the scenes for those who can do nothing to repay you. That will test the quality of your service. Or do you cut corners in your service because in your mind it doesn't really matter.
Jesus deserved to be served. He was and is royalty. He is a King. He is the Lord. He is the Master. There is no name higher than Jesus. One day at the mention of that name every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. If anyone ever earned the right to be served Jesus could rightly make that claim.
He did just the opposite. He served others. He touched the unclean. He help the demon possessed. He stayed late in the night helping people and listening to them. He went places and connected with people the religious authorities shunned. He did not condemn the woman who poured the perfume on His feet and wiped them with her tears and hair. He didn't stone the woman caught in adultery. He made Himself available to serve and minister early in the morning and late into the night to all kinds of people.
Jesus served teaching in backwood places to the common people. He could have demanded an audience in the most prestigious religious settings but He didn't. He taught by the beach. He taught on mountain sides. He taught in the streets and while walking with His disciples. He shared truth with them over campfires. Jesus made Himself accessible.
Jesus also set the example for all people when He bowed His knees and washed the dirty grimy feet of His disciples. He humbled Himself.
At a time when so many church people clamor for the top positions to make the most influential decisions you don't see many standing in line to visit shut ins, visit those in retirement homes, to minister to wait staff at restaurants, to pick up a broom and sweep or carry out the trash, and to move a table or a set of chairs. People don't rush to sign up to stay in the nursery. Servanthood is lost on many in the church.
I am thankful for a man named Jeff Robinson. He is one of my dearest friends and a pastor in Hammond, LA. Nobody demonstrated servanthood more than he did in my life. He served by example. After a Christmas banquet, when all the other preachers stood around talking. Jeff and his church members volunteered to help clean up at the end spontaneously. That made a huge impression on me. None of the other preachers joined in. They continued gabbing while the serving went on underneath their noses. The big shot high profile preachers on that night did not have the same attitude as Jesus. They thought they should be served. Jeff did not do it for attention. He did it because he is a servant. I cannot even recount all the times he came to my aid in times of need.
True servants do not draw attention to themselves. True servants see a need and meet it. It is that simple. Jesus did that. He saw nobody had washed off the dusty dirty feet and He met the need. We may not even notice the needs around us because we are so self absorbed. Case in point. Ever seen trash on the ground at a park, parking lot, or other public place. What did you do? Did you pick it up and discard it? Did you walk right on past? Is that beneath you to stoop to pick up trash?
Here is another simple act of service. From time to time the toilet paper roll runs out. Have you ever left it for someone else to change? Seriously. A job that takes seconds. It is a need around your home. Do you ever meet the need or leave it for the next person? This is such a little thing but it demonstrates a big attitude of the heart and mind. Same thing with the trash, dishes, laundry and a hundred other little things that nobody will notice. It is still service.
Why aren't we more like Jesus? In a word... we are selfish. Self centered. Self absorbed. Jesus denied Himself. He willingly humbled Himself leaving Heaven to live on planet Earth. As a child I can see Jesus being the first to volunteer to do household chores nobody else wanted to do. His service ultimately meant the sacrifice of His life on the cross. We are called to follow Jesus' example. To serve.
I learned a long time ago that life in ministry means serving others. That comes in many different ways. Sometimes it means listening. Sometimes it means helping someone move. It might mean shoveling dirt or mowing. It might mean visiting a retirement home or making a hospital visit. It might mean multitudes of little insignificant things that nobody will ever see and you will never get credit for doing. Except that Jesus sees. He keeps a record. No good deed done for Him goes unnoticed. He sees and He is pleased when His children take the towel and basin and bend the knee to serve others.
28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."
It would seem a lot of people prefer to be served rather than to serve others. People don't mind serving when everyone is watching and it looks good. Like on a mission trip. Like building a home for Habitat For Humanity and the cameras capture the moment. Like doing something for the purpose of applauded by others. What about the times when nobody is watching. What about those times when nobody notices. Those things done in secret behind the scenes for those who can do nothing to repay you. That will test the quality of your service. Or do you cut corners in your service because in your mind it doesn't really matter.
Jesus deserved to be served. He was and is royalty. He is a King. He is the Lord. He is the Master. There is no name higher than Jesus. One day at the mention of that name every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. If anyone ever earned the right to be served Jesus could rightly make that claim.
He did just the opposite. He served others. He touched the unclean. He help the demon possessed. He stayed late in the night helping people and listening to them. He went places and connected with people the religious authorities shunned. He did not condemn the woman who poured the perfume on His feet and wiped them with her tears and hair. He didn't stone the woman caught in adultery. He made Himself available to serve and minister early in the morning and late into the night to all kinds of people.
Jesus served teaching in backwood places to the common people. He could have demanded an audience in the most prestigious religious settings but He didn't. He taught by the beach. He taught on mountain sides. He taught in the streets and while walking with His disciples. He shared truth with them over campfires. Jesus made Himself accessible.
Jesus also set the example for all people when He bowed His knees and washed the dirty grimy feet of His disciples. He humbled Himself.
At a time when so many church people clamor for the top positions to make the most influential decisions you don't see many standing in line to visit shut ins, visit those in retirement homes, to minister to wait staff at restaurants, to pick up a broom and sweep or carry out the trash, and to move a table or a set of chairs. People don't rush to sign up to stay in the nursery. Servanthood is lost on many in the church.
I am thankful for a man named Jeff Robinson. He is one of my dearest friends and a pastor in Hammond, LA. Nobody demonstrated servanthood more than he did in my life. He served by example. After a Christmas banquet, when all the other preachers stood around talking. Jeff and his church members volunteered to help clean up at the end spontaneously. That made a huge impression on me. None of the other preachers joined in. They continued gabbing while the serving went on underneath their noses. The big shot high profile preachers on that night did not have the same attitude as Jesus. They thought they should be served. Jeff did not do it for attention. He did it because he is a servant. I cannot even recount all the times he came to my aid in times of need.
True servants do not draw attention to themselves. True servants see a need and meet it. It is that simple. Jesus did that. He saw nobody had washed off the dusty dirty feet and He met the need. We may not even notice the needs around us because we are so self absorbed. Case in point. Ever seen trash on the ground at a park, parking lot, or other public place. What did you do? Did you pick it up and discard it? Did you walk right on past? Is that beneath you to stoop to pick up trash?
Here is another simple act of service. From time to time the toilet paper roll runs out. Have you ever left it for someone else to change? Seriously. A job that takes seconds. It is a need around your home. Do you ever meet the need or leave it for the next person? This is such a little thing but it demonstrates a big attitude of the heart and mind. Same thing with the trash, dishes, laundry and a hundred other little things that nobody will notice. It is still service.
Why aren't we more like Jesus? In a word... we are selfish. Self centered. Self absorbed. Jesus denied Himself. He willingly humbled Himself leaving Heaven to live on planet Earth. As a child I can see Jesus being the first to volunteer to do household chores nobody else wanted to do. His service ultimately meant the sacrifice of His life on the cross. We are called to follow Jesus' example. To serve.
I learned a long time ago that life in ministry means serving others. That comes in many different ways. Sometimes it means listening. Sometimes it means helping someone move. It might mean shoveling dirt or mowing. It might mean visiting a retirement home or making a hospital visit. It might mean multitudes of little insignificant things that nobody will ever see and you will never get credit for doing. Except that Jesus sees. He keeps a record. No good deed done for Him goes unnoticed. He sees and He is pleased when His children take the towel and basin and bend the knee to serve others.
Thursday, April 25, 2019
Where To Go For Counsel
From time to time people need counsel. They face situations they do not know how to navigate. They must make crucial decisions they feel equipped to make. They need help in coping with the cruelties of life. From time to time most people need some form of counsel.
Many will find it in family. If you grew up in a health relationship with both parents they are often sought for counsel. This can be extended to grandparents as well. Some are so close to siblings they lean on them for advice. I first and foremost lean on my wife for human counsel. She is wise and perceptive. I value her counsel above others.
Trusted friends are another great place to get counsel. I have a few men in my life I trust with life's most pressing situations. I am quick to lean on what they have to say. All my trusted friends are followers of Jesus and speak with a wisdom not of their own. They love God and they love me. I value their wisdom.
Certain situations may require professional counseling such as mental health issues. Some events are so traumatic that only trained counselors can help a person find their way to mental health.
I left the most obvious for last.The first and best place to get good counsel is God. I seek Him first and most often above all others. He has the power to override every other voice. He offers that counsel in a variety of ways. Primarily He does it through His Word. In recent days reading through Deuteronomy the phrase "possess the land" really grabbed me. Multiple times that phrase stopped me in my tracks. I am not sure what it means ad how God wants me to apply that. I just know at this time He spoke that to me and I continue to pray for the proper application.
Of course God uses prayer. Many times people find comfort from God when praying. Burdens are laid down and lifted from weary shoulders. Many times God impresses a directive when praying. Prayer and Scripture reading go hand in hand. God speaks through His Word. We pray through His Word and according to His will for solutions and breakthroughs.
God is the ultimate Counselor. He is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent. No other counselor can say that no matter how much they love you or how much education they have attained. God knows best. He is faithful and has earned the right to be trusted. He stands triumphantly without equal.
God also uses people. He can speak through others. Over the years I have sought God's counsel talking to pastors, preachers, teaches, coaches, mentors, peers, friends, MY WIFE AND EVEN MY SONS. There is wisdom to be found in a multitude of counselors as long as all those are seeking the greatest Counselor of all in God.
It never fails when I pray long enough, read enough scripture, seek the counsel of my wife and others that in due time God reveals what I am supposed to do. While many times I am in a hurry God rarely is. Yet His timing is perfect. So if you need some advice right now pray, read the word and talk to those you trust the most. I am confident God will help you know what to do next.
Many will find it in family. If you grew up in a health relationship with both parents they are often sought for counsel. This can be extended to grandparents as well. Some are so close to siblings they lean on them for advice. I first and foremost lean on my wife for human counsel. She is wise and perceptive. I value her counsel above others.
Trusted friends are another great place to get counsel. I have a few men in my life I trust with life's most pressing situations. I am quick to lean on what they have to say. All my trusted friends are followers of Jesus and speak with a wisdom not of their own. They love God and they love me. I value their wisdom.
Certain situations may require professional counseling such as mental health issues. Some events are so traumatic that only trained counselors can help a person find their way to mental health.
I left the most obvious for last.The first and best place to get good counsel is God. I seek Him first and most often above all others. He has the power to override every other voice. He offers that counsel in a variety of ways. Primarily He does it through His Word. In recent days reading through Deuteronomy the phrase "possess the land" really grabbed me. Multiple times that phrase stopped me in my tracks. I am not sure what it means ad how God wants me to apply that. I just know at this time He spoke that to me and I continue to pray for the proper application.
Of course God uses prayer. Many times people find comfort from God when praying. Burdens are laid down and lifted from weary shoulders. Many times God impresses a directive when praying. Prayer and Scripture reading go hand in hand. God speaks through His Word. We pray through His Word and according to His will for solutions and breakthroughs.
God is the ultimate Counselor. He is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent. No other counselor can say that no matter how much they love you or how much education they have attained. God knows best. He is faithful and has earned the right to be trusted. He stands triumphantly without equal.
God also uses people. He can speak through others. Over the years I have sought God's counsel talking to pastors, preachers, teaches, coaches, mentors, peers, friends, MY WIFE AND EVEN MY SONS. There is wisdom to be found in a multitude of counselors as long as all those are seeking the greatest Counselor of all in God.
It never fails when I pray long enough, read enough scripture, seek the counsel of my wife and others that in due time God reveals what I am supposed to do. While many times I am in a hurry God rarely is. Yet His timing is perfect. So if you need some advice right now pray, read the word and talk to those you trust the most. I am confident God will help you know what to do next.
Lesson From My Morning Commute
When I left the house this morning the sun was just rising. After days of rain the clouds were breaking and streaks of blue sky broke through. Eventually the clouds gave way to beautiful blue skies. I drove in silence taking in the majesty of God's creation via the backroads between Runaway Bay and Weatherford.
About 30 minutes into the drive it all changed. I drove up a hill and around a curve and suddenly all was engulfed in a dense fog. The thick kind making it difficult to see ahead and where moisture gathers on the windshield. One minute I drove in blissful conditions. The next I could barely see the taillights of the vehicle in front of me.
Life is like that. One moment all is going well with smooth sailing and the next thing you know you are surrounded in fog obscuring the path ahead.
Just because the fog obscured my view of the blue sky above did not mean it wasn't there. Just because tribulations obscure our view of God and His truth does not mean He is not there and His true does not remain. We can lose our way. We get confused. We find future steps unsure. God still remains.
God still remains when everything we hold secure gets jerked out from underneath us. God remains steadfast when the winds of adversity howl and the gusts push us off our feet. God remains in control though the fog of fatigue, failure and frustration.
1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NKJV)
24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.
About 30 minutes into the drive it all changed. I drove up a hill and around a curve and suddenly all was engulfed in a dense fog. The thick kind making it difficult to see ahead and where moisture gathers on the windshield. One minute I drove in blissful conditions. The next I could barely see the taillights of the vehicle in front of me.
Life is like that. One moment all is going well with smooth sailing and the next thing you know you are surrounded in fog obscuring the path ahead.
Just because the fog obscured my view of the blue sky above did not mean it wasn't there. Just because tribulations obscure our view of God and His truth does not mean He is not there and His true does not remain. We can lose our way. We get confused. We find future steps unsure. God still remains.
God still remains when everything we hold secure gets jerked out from underneath us. God remains steadfast when the winds of adversity howl and the gusts push us off our feet. God remains in control though the fog of fatigue, failure and frustration.
1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NKJV)
24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.
God Is
Psalm 46:1 (NKJV)
1 God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
This verse does not state "God was." nor does it state, "God will be." God is. That is present tense. The following truth in this verse is true for every generation. God is. Right now. Whatever you are going through. Wherever you are. God is.
God is our refuge. Our shelter. An inaccessible fortress. A hiding place. Outside the storms of life rage with a vengeance. There is refuge in God. He is a safe place. He offers not only shelter,but comfort and peace in the midst of chaos. Just like people seek shelter from literal storms for protection so we find shelter and protection in God's presence.
God is our strength. Strength to keep getting up day after day and plodding ahead. He is our strength to try again when we fail. He is our strength to resist temptation. He is our strength to forgive others who have wronged us. He is our strength to persevere through the next trial. He enables us to overcome setbacks. He empowers us to stay the course when we feel like quitting. He gives us the resolve to not lose heart in well doing.
God is a very present help in trouble. In adversity and affliction God is with us. He is present. Nearby. Available. At hand. We don't have to go through trouble alone. He draws near to us. He gives assistance and aid. He does not abandon us. We need to remember this.
In trouble we get confused. Everything gets disoriented as we just try to survive. This truth is an anchor for the soul. God is present and ready to help. To the tormented mind He offers peace. [Phil 4:6-7] To the tempted He offers a way of escape. [I Cor 10:13] To the heavy burdened He offers rest. [Matt 11:28] To the confused He offers counsel. [Prov 3:5-6] To the needy He offers provision. [Matt 6:25-33] To the sick He helps in prayer for healing. [James 5:16] To the brokenhearted God is near to help. [Ps 34:18-19] In grief and death God helps. [ Ps 116:15] [I Thess 4:13-18] [Phil 1:21]
God is all those things listed above and more. He is able to meet you at your point of need. You will find Him a safe place for shelter. You will find His strength to carry you through. You will find He is nearby when you need Him most. Your God is all this. May we learn this by experience and not just theory. Our God is.
1 God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
This verse does not state "God was." nor does it state, "God will be." God is. That is present tense. The following truth in this verse is true for every generation. God is. Right now. Whatever you are going through. Wherever you are. God is.
God is our refuge. Our shelter. An inaccessible fortress. A hiding place. Outside the storms of life rage with a vengeance. There is refuge in God. He is a safe place. He offers not only shelter,but comfort and peace in the midst of chaos. Just like people seek shelter from literal storms for protection so we find shelter and protection in God's presence.
God is our strength. Strength to keep getting up day after day and plodding ahead. He is our strength to try again when we fail. He is our strength to resist temptation. He is our strength to forgive others who have wronged us. He is our strength to persevere through the next trial. He enables us to overcome setbacks. He empowers us to stay the course when we feel like quitting. He gives us the resolve to not lose heart in well doing.
God is a very present help in trouble. In adversity and affliction God is with us. He is present. Nearby. Available. At hand. We don't have to go through trouble alone. He draws near to us. He gives assistance and aid. He does not abandon us. We need to remember this.
In trouble we get confused. Everything gets disoriented as we just try to survive. This truth is an anchor for the soul. God is present and ready to help. To the tormented mind He offers peace. [Phil 4:6-7] To the tempted He offers a way of escape. [I Cor 10:13] To the heavy burdened He offers rest. [Matt 11:28] To the confused He offers counsel. [Prov 3:5-6] To the needy He offers provision. [Matt 6:25-33] To the sick He helps in prayer for healing. [James 5:16] To the brokenhearted God is near to help. [Ps 34:18-19] In grief and death God helps. [ Ps 116:15] [I Thess 4:13-18] [Phil 1:21]
God is all those things listed above and more. He is able to meet you at your point of need. You will find Him a safe place for shelter. You will find His strength to carry you through. You will find He is nearby when you need Him most. Your God is all this. May we learn this by experience and not just theory. Our God is.
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
The Battlefield
There is a war going on. An invisible war with constant assaults by a stealth enemy. A relentless foe intent on your destruction and the fall of everyone you hold dear. The attacks are swift and severe. Many are taken out and wounded.
The battlefield is an unusual one. For the war I am referring to is in the mind and the enemy is Satan. He constantly attacks the mind with thoughts. Tempting thoughts to sin. Depressing thoughts. Confusing thoughts. Overwhelming thoughts. Suicidal thoughts. Defeated thoughts. Thoughts of rage, bitterness, frustration, anxiety and fear.
You could be cruising through your day carefree and suddenly a twisted tormented thought penetrates your mind that throws everything into upheaval. A thought or thoughts so sinister it knocks you off your feet. Those around you can see it happening. They ask if you are okay. You are not honest. You feel demonic claws ripping through your mind and gouging your faith. Peace oozes out and anxieties seep in. Fitful nights of sleeplessness only exasperate the problem.
Soon those wayward thoughts run rampant. Like wild horses stampeding across the prairie the fears and paranoia race across your mind trampling every God ordained thought. Sinister questions start bubbling up. Where is God? Why doesn't He help? Why is He allowing you to suffer? Doesn't He care? Where is His peace? Where is His relief? The only logical answers you come up with is God doesn't really love you and He is not really concerned as Satan smirks in satisfaction.
Our adversary drops those questions like bombs in an arial assault. They land doing great damage no matter where we try to hide and find shelter. The temptation to self medicate comes. At first just something to calm the nerves. A pill. A drink. A subtle trap laid by the enemy. Before we know what happened the thing we sought to calm the nerves and provide a little escape becomes an addiction. In denial it's easy to justify these actions. Before long everything is spiraling out of control. The battlefield of the mind becomes a war zone from which there appears to be no escape.
There is hope. Satan wants to hide it from you. The hope I offer is found in three passages of scripture. Read them slowly. Let the truth sink in and settle over the mind like giant refuges.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NKJV)
3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.
4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,
5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
We are to cast down every argument and high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. Like a frightened child during a thunderstorm who becomes frightened in the night and screams in terror. Once a loving parent comes to them and holds them close they are reminded they are loved and sheltered. Infinitely more God does this for His children. We sometimes forget. We cry out in fear. He is constantly keeping watch. He is our ultimate refuge and calms our fears. [Is 46:1] [Is 41:10]
It is our responsibility to bring every thought into captivity to obedience to Christ. What does that mean? It means when fears, anxieties, depression, temptations, rebellion, anger and all the rest penetrate the armor of the helmet of our salvation we stand firmly against them with this truth. We capture every thought and cast those out planted by Satan. We refuse to dwell on them. This may take place hundreds of times a day. Satan will not relent and neither can we let our guard down.
Romans 12:2 (NKJV)
2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
How do you renew your mind? Put the word of God into it constantly. Psalm 119:11 (NKJV)
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You!
It is that simple. We read the word of God. We meditate on the word of God. We must memorize the word of God. That's how we renew our mind. That is how Jesus combatted the temptations of Satan. Jesus fought Satan by saying, "It is written," and then quoting a scripture. If Jesus did that how much more do we need to do that too.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Finally, don't worry about anything. Pray about everything. It's that simple to win the battle in the mind.
As a reminder, here are these steps summarized to win the battles in the mind.
The battlefield is an unusual one. For the war I am referring to is in the mind and the enemy is Satan. He constantly attacks the mind with thoughts. Tempting thoughts to sin. Depressing thoughts. Confusing thoughts. Overwhelming thoughts. Suicidal thoughts. Defeated thoughts. Thoughts of rage, bitterness, frustration, anxiety and fear.
You could be cruising through your day carefree and suddenly a twisted tormented thought penetrates your mind that throws everything into upheaval. A thought or thoughts so sinister it knocks you off your feet. Those around you can see it happening. They ask if you are okay. You are not honest. You feel demonic claws ripping through your mind and gouging your faith. Peace oozes out and anxieties seep in. Fitful nights of sleeplessness only exasperate the problem.
Soon those wayward thoughts run rampant. Like wild horses stampeding across the prairie the fears and paranoia race across your mind trampling every God ordained thought. Sinister questions start bubbling up. Where is God? Why doesn't He help? Why is He allowing you to suffer? Doesn't He care? Where is His peace? Where is His relief? The only logical answers you come up with is God doesn't really love you and He is not really concerned as Satan smirks in satisfaction.
Our adversary drops those questions like bombs in an arial assault. They land doing great damage no matter where we try to hide and find shelter. The temptation to self medicate comes. At first just something to calm the nerves. A pill. A drink. A subtle trap laid by the enemy. Before we know what happened the thing we sought to calm the nerves and provide a little escape becomes an addiction. In denial it's easy to justify these actions. Before long everything is spiraling out of control. The battlefield of the mind becomes a war zone from which there appears to be no escape.
There is hope. Satan wants to hide it from you. The hope I offer is found in three passages of scripture. Read them slowly. Let the truth sink in and settle over the mind like giant refuges.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NKJV)
3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.
4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,
5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
We are to cast down every argument and high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. Like a frightened child during a thunderstorm who becomes frightened in the night and screams in terror. Once a loving parent comes to them and holds them close they are reminded they are loved and sheltered. Infinitely more God does this for His children. We sometimes forget. We cry out in fear. He is constantly keeping watch. He is our ultimate refuge and calms our fears. [Is 46:1] [Is 41:10]
It is our responsibility to bring every thought into captivity to obedience to Christ. What does that mean? It means when fears, anxieties, depression, temptations, rebellion, anger and all the rest penetrate the armor of the helmet of our salvation we stand firmly against them with this truth. We capture every thought and cast those out planted by Satan. We refuse to dwell on them. This may take place hundreds of times a day. Satan will not relent and neither can we let our guard down.
Romans 12:2 (NKJV)
2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
How do you renew your mind? Put the word of God into it constantly. Psalm 119:11 (NKJV)
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You!
It is that simple. We read the word of God. We meditate on the word of God. We must memorize the word of God. That's how we renew our mind. That is how Jesus combatted the temptations of Satan. Jesus fought Satan by saying, "It is written," and then quoting a scripture. If Jesus did that how much more do we need to do that too.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Finally, don't worry about anything. Pray about everything. It's that simple to win the battle in the mind.
As a reminder, here are these steps summarized to win the battles in the mind.
- Take every thought captive.
- Renew your mind with the word of God.
- Do not worry about anything.
- Pray about everything.
May God grant peace in your tormented mind. May He give you truth to anchor your soul. May His peace stand like a sentry over your heart and mind. May rest come as you fully rely on Him.
Monday, April 22, 2019
A New Thing
God is always at work around us we learn.
John 5:17 (NKJV)
17 But Jesus answered them, "My Father has been working until now, and I have been working."
John 5:17 (NKJV)
17 But Jesus answered them, "My Father has been working until now, and I have been working."
Everyday He works in various ways. As we walk with Him and He reveals those places He is working we are invited to join Him in these new works. This is part of the thrill of walking closely with Jesus. He invites us to join Him in one adventure after anther.
Sometimes you can wee the adventure coming. Things fall into place. God gives a foreshadowing of what He is about to do. At other times His invitations to join Him may come as complete surprises. How could the disciples have foreknown Jesus would invite them to follow Him. Sometimes the new thing God is doing comes as a complete shock to all involved.
It is imperative to walk closely with the Lord so we are in tune with what He is doing and what He wants to do. It is so easy to get stuck in the old things God used in the past. It is harder to be open when God is doing a new thing. This was true for Israel. They practiced Judaism for centuries. When God predicted the coming of His Messiah Son many of them couldn't handle the new thing God was doing. They rejected the new covenant God made through Jesus and His shed blood.
It's not much different today. God's people are prone to get stuck in the ruts and familiar routines of the past rather than embrace the new things God is doing right in front of our eyes. This can be seen in worship music. It can be seen in new creative ways to reach out. It can also be seen in many dwindling churches who refuse to change or to follow God nor the future. Each year such churches get smaller, the offerings plummet and the moral sinks lower each week. They entrench themselves in their traditions right to the very end.
For any true follower of Jesus what He has on His mind and what He wants to do is far more important than what we want to do. What new thing has God put before you? What new thing is He inviting you to participate? Are you even aware of it? Can you hear God calling and the Spirit nudging you closer to these new things? I trust God to reveal each one of those new things He is doing right around you and before you. Listen and join Him. He is doing a new thing. A fresh thing. Don't miss it.
Isaiah 43:18-19 (NKJV)
18 "Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old.
19 Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.
Inquiry
In recently reading about the life of David I noticed several incidents where David inquired of the LORD about certain matters. In other words David consulted God before making major decisions. He asked and investigated God's mind on military matters.
1 Samuel 30:8 (NKJV)
8 So David inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I pursue this troop? Shall I overtake them?" And He answered him, "Pursue, for you shall surely overtake them and without fail recover all."
1 Samuel 30:8 (NKJV)
8 So David inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I pursue this troop? Shall I overtake them?" And He answered him, "Pursue, for you shall surely overtake them and without fail recover all."
This is just one such incident. The backdrop of this story is that raiders came and captured David's wives and children along with his men's families. David consulted with the LORD before going after them. I don't think I would have done that. I would have asked God for help but I would not have inquired of Him whether I should pursue the raiders that kidnapped Brenda and our sons. I would have just assumed God wanted me to go after them. I bet you would have done the same.
Before David did anything he sought the LORD's mind and will on the matter. David is described as a man after God's own heart. Does that describe us? Do we really seek His will on all matters of importance.
And yet it appears David did not inquire of the LORD before marrying. At this point in David's life he had at least three wives. Michal the daughter of Saul with whom he was estranged since becoming a fugitive from her father King Saul. He wedded Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail the widow of Nabal. If when God brings two together in covenant marriage and the two become one flesh how can four become one flesh. Many people in the Bible practiced polygamy and dysfunction followed. For all the good David did one area he failed miserably was as a husband and father.
How could David inquire of the LORD in some matters and not consult with Him on other matters of equal importance. And if three wives were not enough he committed adultery and hd someone murdered when the one night affair turned into an unplanned and unwanted pregnancy. Eventually he married Bathsheba also. What David did with women Solomon did to excess having 1,000 wives and concubines. Eventually those wives turned Solomon's heart away from God.
Here you have a man after God's own heart and the wisest man who ever lived and yet because they did not inquire of the LORD about matters with women they made foolish mistakes. I digress.
Do you make it a practice to inquire of the LORD in matters? Is it important to you to consult with the LORD when facing decisions? It should be.
Here is the other thing that strikes me. David inquired of the LORD. The LORD answered David in these matters. He gave His servant clear responses to David's inquiries. I find myself longing for that kind of relationship with God where I can not only seek Him but also hear from Him.
God does not think like we think. He does not reason like we reason. Because of this it's all the more important to pause on the front end of decisions to inquire of the One with infinite wisdom, omniscience and the power to bring His will to pass.
Isaiah 55:8-9 (NKJV)
8 "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD.
9 "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.
I don't know what decisions you face today. I have no understanding of what causes your mind to do mental gymnastics trying to make the right decision. The wisest thing you can do is pause on the front end of those decisions and inquire of the LORD. Then wait until He gives a clear answer before proceeding. It will save you a lot of misery and heartache.
Sunday, April 21, 2019
Happy Resurrection Day
Today we celebrate that Jesus rose from the dead and left the grave. Hallelujah! He is risen! He is alive! Seated at the right hand of the Father waiting to come back and get His bride.
As I write this many still sleep. They slept that night as well. I can't help but think back so long ago when Jesus' lifeless body lay in the grave. People grieved. Hope dissipated for His followers. The miracle worker Jesus appeared silenced forever. Not so. Not so in the least. God woke His beloved Son from the death sleep.
This day is not about bunnies and eggs. It is about a resurrected King, Lord and Savior. It is about the power of the resurrected Christ to defeat sin and hell for millions and millions who believed, are still believing and will believe in the future for salvation. This day is not even about family getting together. It is about a triumphant resurrected Christ. It is about serving a living Master and not a dead religion.
The proof is the empty tomb. Some will argue the disciples stole His body. Unlikely being the tomb was both sealed and guarded by Roman soldiers. The same soldiers who were paid hush money to fabricate the stolen body theory. It was and still is a cover up.
Mary and Mary saw Him alive up from the grave. The disciples saw him on more than one occasion. Two walking to Emmaus saw and talked with Him. 500 others saw Him alive.
I have encountered Him as well. I have never seen Him. I have felt Him. I have heard Him. I have been transformed by Him. I have been empowered by Him. HE IS ALIVE! I hope to spend the rest of my days proclaiming that truth. So, HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY!
As I write this many still sleep. They slept that night as well. I can't help but think back so long ago when Jesus' lifeless body lay in the grave. People grieved. Hope dissipated for His followers. The miracle worker Jesus appeared silenced forever. Not so. Not so in the least. God woke His beloved Son from the death sleep.
This day is not about bunnies and eggs. It is about a resurrected King, Lord and Savior. It is about the power of the resurrected Christ to defeat sin and hell for millions and millions who believed, are still believing and will believe in the future for salvation. This day is not even about family getting together. It is about a triumphant resurrected Christ. It is about serving a living Master and not a dead religion.
The proof is the empty tomb. Some will argue the disciples stole His body. Unlikely being the tomb was both sealed and guarded by Roman soldiers. The same soldiers who were paid hush money to fabricate the stolen body theory. It was and still is a cover up.
Mary and Mary saw Him alive up from the grave. The disciples saw him on more than one occasion. Two walking to Emmaus saw and talked with Him. 500 others saw Him alive.
I have encountered Him as well. I have never seen Him. I have felt Him. I have heard Him. I have been transformed by Him. I have been empowered by Him. HE IS ALIVE! I hope to spend the rest of my days proclaiming that truth. So, HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY!
Saturday, April 20, 2019
A Job Well Done
Have you ever worked hard at something? I mean the toil caused your muscles to ache and the task pushed you to your physical and mental limits? I certainly have. I recall several jobs I had as a young man. Hauling hay. Mowing yards. Cutting down dead trees. Working in construction.
I also recall tasks that were not hard physically but mentally like writing papers, taking tests while in school. There were times I did not see how I would ever finish those assignments. It was just one step at a time. Now I look back with satisfaction that God enabled me to finish.
There is a sense of satisfaction when you work hard at something and put your whole heart into it. There is a feeling of knowing you gave your best and you did your work well. That is what we are supposed to do all the time as followers of Jesus. We are supposed to do our work as a reflection of Him.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
31 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
I also recall tasks that were not hard physically but mentally like writing papers, taking tests while in school. There were times I did not see how I would ever finish those assignments. It was just one step at a time. Now I look back with satisfaction that God enabled me to finish.
There is a sense of satisfaction when you work hard at something and put your whole heart into it. There is a feeling of knowing you gave your best and you did your work well. That is what we are supposed to do all the time as followers of Jesus. We are supposed to do our work as a reflection of Him.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
31 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Colossians 3:17 (NKJV)
17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Colossians 3:23 (NKJV)
23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
This mens giving God your best efforts whether you are washing dishes, sweeping the floor, cleaning toilets, putting in eight hours on your job, as a student, athlete, spouse, parent, teaching a class of small children of just one or two, raking leaves or anything else. God expects our best. Everything we do should be done for His glory.
I teach a small Sunday school class. Many times there are only two teens and Brenda. God still expects I give my best for Him and for that small class.
Maybe you have a small assignment. A job that is not glamourous nor does it pay very well. Maybe you work for unappreciative bosses. Maybe your work often goes unnoticed and unrewarded. As a follower of Jesus you still have responsibility to give your best and do your job well. You are doing it as unto to the Lord.
Many years ago Brenda and I started a church in our house at 4128 Evans Gann Rd in Hudson, TX. Every Sunday morning we would get up early and rearrange furniture in our living room and set out folding chairs converting that living room into a small house of worship. Attendance fluctuated like many new churches experience. Somedays we had dozens. Other days we had much less.
Then came a week when people told us they would all be out of town for one reason or another. All except one lady and her two boys. While I preached or taught Brenda would take the children in our bedroom and teach them. Sometimes up to 11 of them.
When we knew that possibly only this one lady with her two boys might show up my heart sunk. I actually hoped she might not show up that Sunday. She did! Happy as a lark with her two boys in tow. Like each other week the two boys gathered with ours back in our bedroom with Brenda. Then it was just the two of us in the living room. What did I do?
It was more than awkward. I felt low. Lower than a snake's belly slithering on the ground. By the grace of God I did the only thing I knew to do. I taught that one lady the Bible. Just like if the room was full. Obviously I did not stand up. did not yell. I sat down to reach. We discussed truth back and forth. I sat in my recliner. She sat on the loveseat. Even with just one I fed her the word of God. I gave my best.
The next week things went back to normal. I think about that congregation of one many times when I get discouraged. When the attendance is low. When you invite people to come and they do not show up. No matter the attendance I am to give God my best.
What is it in your life that you are tempted to give half effort? What job is before you ushering dread into your mind? What task would you prefer to give less than your best? I am sure there is something.
All our sons are home. They are no longer boys. They are men. It is joyous time. Until after a busy day Brenda and I walked into a kitchen sink overflowing with dirty dishes piled high. Neither of us were happy. We had a meal to prepare but before doing so the dishes had to be done. Of all the household chores washing dishes is by far my least favorite especially when I did not dirty the dishes.
Together Brenda and I attacked the pile. Before we knew it the sink emptied. A job well done.
Turner and I cut a large patch of grass that had not been trimmed in years. The patch could not be mowed because of rocks so we cut it with weedeaters. Some of it was knee and nearly waist high. We guided our trimmers over large swaths and stayed at it. The job was so big I did not even allow myself to look up at the work still left to do. We both kept our heads down and worked. When I did look up once I lost heart at how much we had left to do. We both kept at it. Twice I ran out of string. It was a several hundred yard walk back to the truck for more. When I looked at how much we had left it has shrunk to a small patch. I used Turner's trimmer and completed the assignment.
We both turned around and looked with satisfaction on a job well done. On a job done for the glory of God. On something we gave our best efforts to complete.
Whatever you have to do I exhort you to do it as unto the Lord. I challenge you to do your work for the glory of God. Do your job well as an act of worship to King Jesus. He sees. No deed done until Him goes unnoticed. Press on weary people. Strive to do your job well for the glory of God.
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
As Iron Sharpens Iron
For many years I desired God to put an older pastor in my life to mentor me. My pastor back in Lufkin, TX did a great job of that as well as the man who led me to faith in Jesus. I still get wisdom from them both on occasion. I do not live near either and desired somebody close I could learn from.
God answered that prayer in a guy named Gary. Gary has been used mightily by God. He has been and continues to be a soul winner. He is a great leader. He is man of great wisdom. He knows the word of God. He is passionate. He has successfully pastored several churches God orchestrated our meeting and a bond was built.
He immediately challenged me to memorize scripture. He holds me accountable to it even going back to verses I've already learned as a refresher. Today I had to quote close to a dozen verses to him. He encourages me. He sharpens me. He counsels me. He loves and prays for me and my family. He even called today after we met for couple of hours to tell me that I encourage him when we meet.
Gary is the kind of guy who speaks the truth boldly. Though he is always kind, he does not pull punches. He says what needs to be said and I need that in my life. I need his accountability. I also need to learn and he is a most willing teacher.
We never meet that I do not leave encouraged and inspired to believe God for more. I'm thankful for Gary. He is a blessing to me and many others. Gary is a man constantly giving his life away.. I am blessed to be a recipient of his ministry. He sharpens me like a knife blade on a whet stone. I am better for the time I spend with him.
Do you have someone like that in your life? Someone who pushes you closer to God? Someone who challenges to step up your walk with God? I hope you do. You will benefit for years to come.
Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV)
17 As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
God answered that prayer in a guy named Gary. Gary has been used mightily by God. He has been and continues to be a soul winner. He is a great leader. He is man of great wisdom. He knows the word of God. He is passionate. He has successfully pastored several churches God orchestrated our meeting and a bond was built.
He immediately challenged me to memorize scripture. He holds me accountable to it even going back to verses I've already learned as a refresher. Today I had to quote close to a dozen verses to him. He encourages me. He sharpens me. He counsels me. He loves and prays for me and my family. He even called today after we met for couple of hours to tell me that I encourage him when we meet.
Gary is the kind of guy who speaks the truth boldly. Though he is always kind, he does not pull punches. He says what needs to be said and I need that in my life. I need his accountability. I also need to learn and he is a most willing teacher.
We never meet that I do not leave encouraged and inspired to believe God for more. I'm thankful for Gary. He is a blessing to me and many others. Gary is a man constantly giving his life away.. I am blessed to be a recipient of his ministry. He sharpens me like a knife blade on a whet stone. I am better for the time I spend with him.
Do you have someone like that in your life? Someone who pushes you closer to God? Someone who challenges to step up your walk with God? I hope you do. You will benefit for years to come.
Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV)
17 As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
God Did It Again
Sunday was a busy day. We sat under God's word, worshiped, enjoyed fellowship and evangelized. When our elders told me they needed to meet with Brenda and I after the service I had no idea what they had on their mind. We gathered in my office and I joked that we were about to get fired.
Neither Brenda nor I were prepared for what they told us. Someone in our church wanted to bless us with a vehicle. Not just a vehicle. A Lincoln Continental with only 55,000 miles on it. Not only that, this generous person had already made arrangements to get every issue on the car repaired before blessing us. Even down to a tiny dent that the elders could not even find.
Brenda began to weep. I stood there silently. I had no words. We have prayed about God's help for years in providing vehicles without our going into debt. God answered in a very dramatic way this past Sunday morning.
To be perfectly honest I had grown very discouraged that very weekend. Both of our vehicles began acting up. We had no extra money for repairs and I was at the point where I did not know another prayer to pray that I had not prayed already. I could not understand why God delayed. I understand now. He waited until I was most discouraged and without hope so He could get the most glory. He delayed to get my full attention to remind me what He is capable of doing.
He did it again. When I say he did it again I mean God blessed us with a vehicle again. Many times I have written about this. God blessed me with a car the first time when I was in college. I served as a youth minister in a town 48 miles away from campus. I had no car. I caught rides with other people going in that same direction or Brenda and I drove it together in her car until she went home for the summer.
A generous family opened their guest room for me to stay in during the weekends from the church I served. I made a grand total of $35 a week at Rochelle Baptist Church. The experiences I had there were worth a lot more than that. The Munden family blessed me with Chevrolet Caprice Classic. I drove that car for years until one night I caught in a flood and it died.
My next miracle vehicle came after months and months of praying for God's provision. The little truck I drove at the time had 2007,000 miles on it and I drove it to travel preaching as a full time evangelists. I prayed about that for months when one day I was informed a doctor in town wanted to bless me with a Jeep Grand Cherokee with 80,000 miles on it. I glorified God and testified in every church I preached in what God did. I put an additional 120,000 miles on that vehicle before selling it.
The third miracle vehicle came after God instructed me to give away a perfectly good truck to a friend who totaled his car in a wreck. That little truck barely had 50,000 miles on it and we paid cash for it after selling our house. I obeyed in faith and went seven months without a vehicle. After seven months of travailing prayer God used three people to provide for the truck that now sits in my driveway. That truck had 50,000 miles on it when I bought it. I have driven it to make hospital visits, preach revivals and youth camps, to do evangelism work, to mow yards. I glorified God about that truck bragging on Him. Now that truck has 247,000 miles on it.
Tucker actually drove that truck to college for the first semester because we were not able to buy him a vehicle of his own. It was a sacrifice and inconvenient but we kept praying for God to bless him. We prayed that for a year and a half. This past December God answered that prayer. A friend of my mother in law sold us a Mazda 6 car with only 45,000 miles on it for only $500. Yes you read that right. $500. Hallelujah. God did again.
Brenda's suburban has been a great vehicle for us for the past 14 years. We have traveled a lot for ministry and family events in that vehicle. We have many fond memories in it. We have never owned a vehicle longer or driven one further with now 350,000 miles on it.
Out of those circumstances God did it again. Again I will glorify Him for what He has done. I will also glorify Him for what He is going to do. All glory to Him. He came through at just the right time. God surprised my wife and I. He did it in a totally unexpected way. He once again showed us His power. He can do anything.
Back up a second. About 16 months ago I prayed one of the most audacious prayers I'd ever prayed. I have kept that petition before the Lord. I asked Him for three vehicles. Yep. I asked God for three vehicles and have done so since. Some might say outlandish. Others would say foolish. I would just say God has blessed us with two out of those three requested vehicles. You have not because you ask not. I glorify His name for doing so.
God do anything. He can move any mountain. [Mark 11:23-24] He can provide for any need. [Phil 4:19] He can answer prayer. [Matt 7:7-8] He can do the impossible. [Matt 19:26] He can do more through answered prayer than we can do in years of our own striving. That is what this is all about. It about boasting in God and testifying of prayers He has answered for my family for years. It is about encouraging others with real needs to persistently take those needs to God in prayer and trust Him for results. Tangible results.
A church member recently approached me with a strange proposition. This person felt God wanted them to purchase a storage building for Heritage Baptist Church. The only catch is they would have to put it on a credit card. I immediately hesitated and told the person my doubts about them going into debt. I knew this person lived on a fixed income. We both agreed to pray. This same person talked to me privately before our Wednesday night service. With a list in hand this person read scripture after scripture and then this one statement that penetrated my heart. "Please do not deny me the opportunity to sacrifice for my Lord."
Such faith and generosity humbled me. Yesterday, a company constructed that storage building on our property and I walked inside something that faith built. Now I am asking and trusting God to provide the $4,000 to pay off that building in response to this person's faith and willingness to sacrifice. This church member told me it was possible because all that was needed would be to quit going out to eat to meet the monthly obligations. I believe God has something else in mind. I believe the faith of one person can stir the faith of many others and that $4,000 can be wiped out just like God met our need for another vehicle.
O people, God is bigger than we imagine. He is stronger than we can conceive. He is more than able to do what concerns us today. [Eph 3:20] I stand in faith for my family and for others in need. I stand in faith for this generous saint who made such a tangible sacrifice for the benefit of our church. I stand in faith so God gets all the glory when He does what others think is impossible. In those moments I delight to preach and write, "God did it again. Once again He surprised me. Once again He flexed His muscle to give just a tiny glimpse of what He is able to do." He reminds me that nothing is too difficult for Him. I expect I will spend the rest of my days saying, "God did it again. Glory to His name."
Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV)
1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Neither Brenda nor I were prepared for what they told us. Someone in our church wanted to bless us with a vehicle. Not just a vehicle. A Lincoln Continental with only 55,000 miles on it. Not only that, this generous person had already made arrangements to get every issue on the car repaired before blessing us. Even down to a tiny dent that the elders could not even find.
Brenda began to weep. I stood there silently. I had no words. We have prayed about God's help for years in providing vehicles without our going into debt. God answered in a very dramatic way this past Sunday morning.
To be perfectly honest I had grown very discouraged that very weekend. Both of our vehicles began acting up. We had no extra money for repairs and I was at the point where I did not know another prayer to pray that I had not prayed already. I could not understand why God delayed. I understand now. He waited until I was most discouraged and without hope so He could get the most glory. He delayed to get my full attention to remind me what He is capable of doing.
He did it again. When I say he did it again I mean God blessed us with a vehicle again. Many times I have written about this. God blessed me with a car the first time when I was in college. I served as a youth minister in a town 48 miles away from campus. I had no car. I caught rides with other people going in that same direction or Brenda and I drove it together in her car until she went home for the summer.
A generous family opened their guest room for me to stay in during the weekends from the church I served. I made a grand total of $35 a week at Rochelle Baptist Church. The experiences I had there were worth a lot more than that. The Munden family blessed me with Chevrolet Caprice Classic. I drove that car for years until one night I caught in a flood and it died.
My next miracle vehicle came after months and months of praying for God's provision. The little truck I drove at the time had 2007,000 miles on it and I drove it to travel preaching as a full time evangelists. I prayed about that for months when one day I was informed a doctor in town wanted to bless me with a Jeep Grand Cherokee with 80,000 miles on it. I glorified God and testified in every church I preached in what God did. I put an additional 120,000 miles on that vehicle before selling it.
The third miracle vehicle came after God instructed me to give away a perfectly good truck to a friend who totaled his car in a wreck. That little truck barely had 50,000 miles on it and we paid cash for it after selling our house. I obeyed in faith and went seven months without a vehicle. After seven months of travailing prayer God used three people to provide for the truck that now sits in my driveway. That truck had 50,000 miles on it when I bought it. I have driven it to make hospital visits, preach revivals and youth camps, to do evangelism work, to mow yards. I glorified God about that truck bragging on Him. Now that truck has 247,000 miles on it.
Tucker actually drove that truck to college for the first semester because we were not able to buy him a vehicle of his own. It was a sacrifice and inconvenient but we kept praying for God to bless him. We prayed that for a year and a half. This past December God answered that prayer. A friend of my mother in law sold us a Mazda 6 car with only 45,000 miles on it for only $500. Yes you read that right. $500. Hallelujah. God did again.
Brenda's suburban has been a great vehicle for us for the past 14 years. We have traveled a lot for ministry and family events in that vehicle. We have many fond memories in it. We have never owned a vehicle longer or driven one further with now 350,000 miles on it.
Out of those circumstances God did it again. Again I will glorify Him for what He has done. I will also glorify Him for what He is going to do. All glory to Him. He came through at just the right time. God surprised my wife and I. He did it in a totally unexpected way. He once again showed us His power. He can do anything.
Back up a second. About 16 months ago I prayed one of the most audacious prayers I'd ever prayed. I have kept that petition before the Lord. I asked Him for three vehicles. Yep. I asked God for three vehicles and have done so since. Some might say outlandish. Others would say foolish. I would just say God has blessed us with two out of those three requested vehicles. You have not because you ask not. I glorify His name for doing so.
God do anything. He can move any mountain. [Mark 11:23-24] He can provide for any need. [Phil 4:19] He can answer prayer. [Matt 7:7-8] He can do the impossible. [Matt 19:26] He can do more through answered prayer than we can do in years of our own striving. That is what this is all about. It about boasting in God and testifying of prayers He has answered for my family for years. It is about encouraging others with real needs to persistently take those needs to God in prayer and trust Him for results. Tangible results.
A church member recently approached me with a strange proposition. This person felt God wanted them to purchase a storage building for Heritage Baptist Church. The only catch is they would have to put it on a credit card. I immediately hesitated and told the person my doubts about them going into debt. I knew this person lived on a fixed income. We both agreed to pray. This same person talked to me privately before our Wednesday night service. With a list in hand this person read scripture after scripture and then this one statement that penetrated my heart. "Please do not deny me the opportunity to sacrifice for my Lord."
Such faith and generosity humbled me. Yesterday, a company constructed that storage building on our property and I walked inside something that faith built. Now I am asking and trusting God to provide the $4,000 to pay off that building in response to this person's faith and willingness to sacrifice. This church member told me it was possible because all that was needed would be to quit going out to eat to meet the monthly obligations. I believe God has something else in mind. I believe the faith of one person can stir the faith of many others and that $4,000 can be wiped out just like God met our need for another vehicle.
O people, God is bigger than we imagine. He is stronger than we can conceive. He is more than able to do what concerns us today. [Eph 3:20] I stand in faith for my family and for others in need. I stand in faith for this generous saint who made such a tangible sacrifice for the benefit of our church. I stand in faith so God gets all the glory when He does what others think is impossible. In those moments I delight to preach and write, "God did it again. Once again He surprised me. Once again He flexed His muscle to give just a tiny glimpse of what He is able to do." He reminds me that nothing is too difficult for Him. I expect I will spend the rest of my days saying, "God did it again. Glory to His name."
Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV)
1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Thursday, April 11, 2019
A Timely Word
As so often happens God gave me a timely word in my devotion readings. Such a timely word I could not keep it for myself. I shared it last night with the flock. Even as I taught it I could see the word was timely for others in attendance also.
It is a wonderful thing to watch God take His word, His truth, His message and apply it to the needs of people. Sometimes He does this through reproof and rebuke. Sometimes He does it through exhortation. Many times He does it through comfort.
Comfort is what I sensed Him doing last night all over the room. Each attendee face their own battles. They face their own mountains and arel oaded down with heavy burdens. It is a wonder to watch people come into a gathering weary and worn and to leave with hope and renewed faith because God revived them with His word.
So much of the time through the years all I have done is shared words that God first gave to me. It reminds me of a prayer a friend long ago used to pray for me. He prayed, "Lord, I ask you to preach it to Matt before he preaches it to us." God does a lot of that. He preaches to me in a private worship service within the walls of this home office seated at this wooden desk. I meet with Him here. He speaks to me and ministers to me before an audience of just one.
I love those encounters when God gives me a timely word. A word perfect for that season. A fresh word that meets the need of the hour. It is also rewarding to see God do that for others through teaching and preaching.
Here was the fresh word from yesterday and last night. A very familiar passage God made fresh and timely for April 10, 2019.
Joshua 1:9 (NKJV)
9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
The word strong can mean stouthearted. Be strong in the Lord. This might mean emotional strength to overcome disappointments, hurts and griefs. This might mean spiritual strength to face your challenges with faith. This may include physical strength to not give up and to keep toeing the line in your battles. Being stouthearted is so much more than brute force. It is being resilient. It is persevering. It is not shrinking back from challenges.
The words good courage means to be steadfastly minded. When athletes face a challenge they have a saying, "You have to get your mind right." What challenges are you facing that necessitate you to get stouthearted and fortified in your mind? It is amazing how just having the right mindset can make a challenge easier. I used to make games out of work. To see if I could put the gravel in the wheelbarrow with less shovel loads than the time before. To stack one more bag of concrete to tote than the time before. Work did not seem like such a drudgery. Steadfastly minded we face our challenges one step at a time. We remind ourselves who is fighting for us and with us. [Ex 14:14]
God challenged Joshua not to be afraid. That same challenge applies to us. What are you afraid of today? What terrifies you? What frightens you? What is the worst possible outcome you have played over and over again in your mind? What fears have paralyzed your faith suffocated your peace? Instead of fear we must give into faith. Faith triumphs fear. Fear is a tool of the enemy to get us to doubt and lose heart. Read [II Tim 1:7] Let God overcome your fears.
Do not be dismayed. To be dismayed is to be overwhelmed and bewildered by what you see. Where is your gaze today? Are you looking at all your trials? Are you, like Peter, looking at the swelling waves instead of looking at the Master? We get in trouble when we take our eyes off Him. We entertain doubts. We worry. We get discouraged and fall into depression. When we keep our gaze on God and His promises we always have hope.
God said one other thing to Joshua that often gets overlooked in this passage. In fact it is just a four letter little word that I think is the most important word in this whole passage. It is the word with. With means to accompany, to take responsibility. God told Joshua He would be with Him wherever He went. He makes that same promise to us. He accompanies His children through each step of life. He is present. He is available. He is our Shepherd. Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death He is with us. [Ps 23:4] To the very end of our days God is with us. He is a refuge and our strength. [Ps 46:1]
That was my timely word yesterday. I saw God use that word to minister to several others last night. Perhaps He will use it again in your life. I pray it be so.
It is a wonderful thing to watch God take His word, His truth, His message and apply it to the needs of people. Sometimes He does this through reproof and rebuke. Sometimes He does it through exhortation. Many times He does it through comfort.
Comfort is what I sensed Him doing last night all over the room. Each attendee face their own battles. They face their own mountains and arel oaded down with heavy burdens. It is a wonder to watch people come into a gathering weary and worn and to leave with hope and renewed faith because God revived them with His word.
So much of the time through the years all I have done is shared words that God first gave to me. It reminds me of a prayer a friend long ago used to pray for me. He prayed, "Lord, I ask you to preach it to Matt before he preaches it to us." God does a lot of that. He preaches to me in a private worship service within the walls of this home office seated at this wooden desk. I meet with Him here. He speaks to me and ministers to me before an audience of just one.
I love those encounters when God gives me a timely word. A word perfect for that season. A fresh word that meets the need of the hour. It is also rewarding to see God do that for others through teaching and preaching.
Here was the fresh word from yesterday and last night. A very familiar passage God made fresh and timely for April 10, 2019.
Joshua 1:9 (NKJV)
9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
The word strong can mean stouthearted. Be strong in the Lord. This might mean emotional strength to overcome disappointments, hurts and griefs. This might mean spiritual strength to face your challenges with faith. This may include physical strength to not give up and to keep toeing the line in your battles. Being stouthearted is so much more than brute force. It is being resilient. It is persevering. It is not shrinking back from challenges.
The words good courage means to be steadfastly minded. When athletes face a challenge they have a saying, "You have to get your mind right." What challenges are you facing that necessitate you to get stouthearted and fortified in your mind? It is amazing how just having the right mindset can make a challenge easier. I used to make games out of work. To see if I could put the gravel in the wheelbarrow with less shovel loads than the time before. To stack one more bag of concrete to tote than the time before. Work did not seem like such a drudgery. Steadfastly minded we face our challenges one step at a time. We remind ourselves who is fighting for us and with us. [Ex 14:14]
God challenged Joshua not to be afraid. That same challenge applies to us. What are you afraid of today? What terrifies you? What frightens you? What is the worst possible outcome you have played over and over again in your mind? What fears have paralyzed your faith suffocated your peace? Instead of fear we must give into faith. Faith triumphs fear. Fear is a tool of the enemy to get us to doubt and lose heart. Read [II Tim 1:7] Let God overcome your fears.
Do not be dismayed. To be dismayed is to be overwhelmed and bewildered by what you see. Where is your gaze today? Are you looking at all your trials? Are you, like Peter, looking at the swelling waves instead of looking at the Master? We get in trouble when we take our eyes off Him. We entertain doubts. We worry. We get discouraged and fall into depression. When we keep our gaze on God and His promises we always have hope.
God said one other thing to Joshua that often gets overlooked in this passage. In fact it is just a four letter little word that I think is the most important word in this whole passage. It is the word with. With means to accompany, to take responsibility. God told Joshua He would be with Him wherever He went. He makes that same promise to us. He accompanies His children through each step of life. He is present. He is available. He is our Shepherd. Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death He is with us. [Ps 23:4] To the very end of our days God is with us. He is a refuge and our strength. [Ps 46:1]
That was my timely word yesterday. I saw God use that word to minister to several others last night. Perhaps He will use it again in your life. I pray it be so.
The Dawning Of A New Day
As we wake to a new day we do so with the mind to serve Jesus today. Before the day unfolds we lay it before our Master trusting Him to use ua as His vessels. We do not know what the day will hold or who we will come in contact today. We trust our paths will be guided by His unseen hand.
This is not a day to be wasted but a day to serve. A day to redeem. A day to be available to our Lord. To be an instrument of His compassion and grace to those who might get overlooked. We trust the Lord to give us eyes to see beyond the surface of physique, hair color, tattoos, piercings, clothing and language. We pray the Lord allows us to see into the souls of people. To see what He sees. To see the potential in people He created.
Today, we ask God for the chance to make a difference in someone's life. We ask for the opportunity to write something, speak something or do something that will matter in eternity. Living only for this present world is way too small a thing to waste this day. We plead the Lord will make this day count. That what we do today will have eternal consequences in the life to come.
At the dawning of this new day we think of all the possibilities.All the prayers that could be answered this day. All the blessings of God that can be showered on this day. All the divine encounters that can be ordained for this day. All the labor to be done this day. All the service to be joyfully done this day.
As the day dawns what we yearn for most is to meet with God in significant ways. To sit at His feet and hang on every word He speaks. To get lost on the wonder of worship. To content ourselves before Him and take the time to linger long with Him. We want to pursue Him today as hard as ever before. May He receive our lives as living sacrifices. [Rom 12:1] May He renew our minds [Rom 12:2] May His word pierce and discern our thoughts and intentions. [Heb 4:12] May He strengthen us for the tasks ahead. [Phil 4:13]May we rejoice in Him always today. [Phil 4:4] May He increase our faith to move mountains. [Mark 11:23-24] May we find peace that surpasses all understanding in Him. [Phil 4:6-7]
When the sun sets later today may we lay our heads on the pillow in the satisfaction that we did not squander the gift of this day. May we sleep restfully until the dawning of the next new day.
This is not a day to be wasted but a day to serve. A day to redeem. A day to be available to our Lord. To be an instrument of His compassion and grace to those who might get overlooked. We trust the Lord to give us eyes to see beyond the surface of physique, hair color, tattoos, piercings, clothing and language. We pray the Lord allows us to see into the souls of people. To see what He sees. To see the potential in people He created.
Today, we ask God for the chance to make a difference in someone's life. We ask for the opportunity to write something, speak something or do something that will matter in eternity. Living only for this present world is way too small a thing to waste this day. We plead the Lord will make this day count. That what we do today will have eternal consequences in the life to come.
At the dawning of this new day we think of all the possibilities.All the prayers that could be answered this day. All the blessings of God that can be showered on this day. All the divine encounters that can be ordained for this day. All the labor to be done this day. All the service to be joyfully done this day.
As the day dawns what we yearn for most is to meet with God in significant ways. To sit at His feet and hang on every word He speaks. To get lost on the wonder of worship. To content ourselves before Him and take the time to linger long with Him. We want to pursue Him today as hard as ever before. May He receive our lives as living sacrifices. [Rom 12:1] May He renew our minds [Rom 12:2] May His word pierce and discern our thoughts and intentions. [Heb 4:12] May He strengthen us for the tasks ahead. [Phil 4:13]May we rejoice in Him always today. [Phil 4:4] May He increase our faith to move mountains. [Mark 11:23-24] May we find peace that surpasses all understanding in Him. [Phil 4:6-7]
When the sun sets later today may we lay our heads on the pillow in the satisfaction that we did not squander the gift of this day. May we sleep restfully until the dawning of the next new day.
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Help The Hurting
Every day they stumble through private pain,
Living under a cloud filled with pouring rain,
Sin suffocates and strangles all fragile hope away,
Pessimism weighs heavy with the dawning of day,
Heaven laden people oppressed by weighty loads,
Choosing wrongly at intersections of crossroads,
The wisdom of the world doesn't produce any peace,
Striving to the top doesn't make anxieties to cease,
Is there hope for all people wounded weary hurting,
Is there any hope in Bible pages many keep skirting,
O Jesus, You are the friend to hurting bleeding souls,
You're the rescuer to those fallen into sinful sink holes,
You're the deliverer to those bound by shackled chains,
You are the tender hand to wipe away all tearful stains,
You are the friend of even the most wounded of hearts,
You renew and make whole again with brand new starts,
You heal psychological, physical and emotional wounds,
You bring the dead to life like Lazarus out of the tomb,
Jesus, You are what the broken and hurting really need,
More than meth, crack, heroine or popping some speed,
You are tranquility in the most tumultuous of life storms,
Grace, mercy, lovingkindness and faithfulness are norms,
Please help the hurting today navigate life and the pain,
Please take away the heavy burdens and ease their strain,
In You may they find a wonderful Savior a mighty King,
Who takes away the hurt along with the painful stings.
Living under a cloud filled with pouring rain,
Sin suffocates and strangles all fragile hope away,
Pessimism weighs heavy with the dawning of day,
Heaven laden people oppressed by weighty loads,
Choosing wrongly at intersections of crossroads,
The wisdom of the world doesn't produce any peace,
Striving to the top doesn't make anxieties to cease,
Is there hope for all people wounded weary hurting,
Is there any hope in Bible pages many keep skirting,
O Jesus, You are the friend to hurting bleeding souls,
You're the rescuer to those fallen into sinful sink holes,
You're the deliverer to those bound by shackled chains,
You are the tender hand to wipe away all tearful stains,
You are the friend of even the most wounded of hearts,
You renew and make whole again with brand new starts,
You heal psychological, physical and emotional wounds,
You bring the dead to life like Lazarus out of the tomb,
Jesus, You are what the broken and hurting really need,
More than meth, crack, heroine or popping some speed,
You are tranquility in the most tumultuous of life storms,
Grace, mercy, lovingkindness and faithfulness are norms,
Please help the hurting today navigate life and the pain,
Please take away the heavy burdens and ease their strain,
In You may they find a wonderful Savior a mighty King,
Who takes away the hurt along with the painful stings.
Outside The Holy Huddle
I recently read a statement that grabbed my heart. Jesus spent 90% of His ministry outside the synagogue. Let me put that another way. Jesus spent the majority of His time rubbing shoulders with irreligious people outside the religious gathering place.
Jesus crossed paths and ministered to an adulterer, a prostitute, a tax collector, a leper, several blind men, demon possessed people, hypocrites, the lame, a chronically ill woman and those grieving over the death of children. Jesus did not spend all of His time in a holy huddle surrounded by religious people doing religious things.
It is easy for followers of Jesus to insulate ourselves from the very people who need Jesus. We have to get outside and minister to those who do not attend our religious gatherings. Some have this naturally built into their days because they are students or work in the public sector. They constantly cross paths with irreligious people.
Have you noticed that Jesus treated sinful people with love and grace. He did not make excuses for their sins. He called them to a holy standard of living but He loved them. They felt comfortable around Him. Jesus was approachable. He still is. Does that define our interactions with irreligious people? Have we become so pious irreligious people shun us?
Do you get outside the holy huddle? Do you purposely engage people from different walks of life. Just this week I met a girl named Tasha who is a single mother and got to pray with her. I came across Juanita and Rex and prayed with them. I met Johnny, Jeremy and Paula. Each of these people I met outside the walls of Heritage Baptist Church.
Jesus purposely encountered people down on life, struggling in sin, and desperate for hope. Shouldn't we willingly do the same? People stumble through life weary and often disillusioned. By and large many of them have given up on the church. O that we might introduce these people to Jesus. I am thankful someone did that for me three decades ago. It is my mission to point others to Jesus too outside the holy huddles.
Luke 19:10 (NKJV)
10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."
Jesus crossed paths and ministered to an adulterer, a prostitute, a tax collector, a leper, several blind men, demon possessed people, hypocrites, the lame, a chronically ill woman and those grieving over the death of children. Jesus did not spend all of His time in a holy huddle surrounded by religious people doing religious things.
It is easy for followers of Jesus to insulate ourselves from the very people who need Jesus. We have to get outside and minister to those who do not attend our religious gatherings. Some have this naturally built into their days because they are students or work in the public sector. They constantly cross paths with irreligious people.
Have you noticed that Jesus treated sinful people with love and grace. He did not make excuses for their sins. He called them to a holy standard of living but He loved them. They felt comfortable around Him. Jesus was approachable. He still is. Does that define our interactions with irreligious people? Have we become so pious irreligious people shun us?
Do you get outside the holy huddle? Do you purposely engage people from different walks of life. Just this week I met a girl named Tasha who is a single mother and got to pray with her. I came across Juanita and Rex and prayed with them. I met Johnny, Jeremy and Paula. Each of these people I met outside the walls of Heritage Baptist Church.
Jesus purposely encountered people down on life, struggling in sin, and desperate for hope. Shouldn't we willingly do the same? People stumble through life weary and often disillusioned. By and large many of them have given up on the church. O that we might introduce these people to Jesus. I am thankful someone did that for me three decades ago. It is my mission to point others to Jesus too outside the holy huddles.
Luke 19:10 (NKJV)
10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."
Sunday, April 7, 2019
Prayer For America
God,
I cannot imagine how America grieves you daily. You know everything. You knew every child aborted by name and personality, each of several millions. You see every evil. No wicked deed is hidden from Your eyes. You see through pretense and hypocrisy. You see each of us as we really are.
You see the hurting and abused. You see those neglected because of old age. You see racial injustice. You see corruption in government. Nothing is hidden from Your view. You see the adulterers. You see the homosexuals. You see the deception of Planned Parenthood and the A.C.L.U. You see Muslims. You see Atheists. Nobody is hidden from You.
America deserves Your wrath. I plead for Your mercy. We, like Your own covenant people, have turned from You. We have chased after gods of our own making such as; money, power, pleasure and education. We are so arrogant defying Your laws. Foolishly we sow the seed of sin and think we will not reap destruction.
We are doomed as a nation if You do not lead us to repentance. We will never come to repentance as a nation on our own. You will have to initiate it. Perhaps You can do it today when millions will gather to worship. Perhaps today You will release the Holy Spirit to breakthrough hard hearts. Perhaps today Your word will come like a hammer crushing rock hard hearts. I ask You for these things.
My heart grieves and I know only in part. You know everything. Please send another awakening to this sin infested nation. Please do a miracle among us. Draw us to repentance and back to You. You are our only hope.
In Jesus name,
Amen.
I cannot imagine how America grieves you daily. You know everything. You knew every child aborted by name and personality, each of several millions. You see every evil. No wicked deed is hidden from Your eyes. You see through pretense and hypocrisy. You see each of us as we really are.
You see the hurting and abused. You see those neglected because of old age. You see racial injustice. You see corruption in government. Nothing is hidden from Your view. You see the adulterers. You see the homosexuals. You see the deception of Planned Parenthood and the A.C.L.U. You see Muslims. You see Atheists. Nobody is hidden from You.
America deserves Your wrath. I plead for Your mercy. We, like Your own covenant people, have turned from You. We have chased after gods of our own making such as; money, power, pleasure and education. We are so arrogant defying Your laws. Foolishly we sow the seed of sin and think we will not reap destruction.
We are doomed as a nation if You do not lead us to repentance. We will never come to repentance as a nation on our own. You will have to initiate it. Perhaps You can do it today when millions will gather to worship. Perhaps today You will release the Holy Spirit to breakthrough hard hearts. Perhaps today Your word will come like a hammer crushing rock hard hearts. I ask You for these things.
My heart grieves and I know only in part. You know everything. Please send another awakening to this sin infested nation. Please do a miracle among us. Draw us to repentance and back to You. You are our only hope.
In Jesus name,
Amen.
We Walked Out - Why Didn't The Others?
Brenda loves entering contests sponsored by KLTY, one of local Christian radio stations. Three times now she has won free movie tickets to private screenings of soon to be released movies. The third she won for last Tuesday night. We considered it a date night. Even though I'd never heard of the movie, The Best Of Enemies, I was excited about some time alone with Brenda.
We took our seats among a couple of hundred of people. A KLTY representative walked up front before the movie began and introduced himself. When he asked how people felt about the radio station people applauded and cheered. Next,we were asked about favorite radio personalities. All over the room people shouted out different names and more applause followed. I just wanted to get on with the movie since we had a hour drive back home afterward.
Right off the bat the movie had some crude language. I raised my eyebrows. This movie was sponsored by a Christian radio station? 30 minutes in one of the movie characters used G.D. You know what I am talking about. When people use God's name to damn others. I immediately looked at Brenda and told her, "I'm done." I rose and walked out with her behind me.
I could not believe a so called Christian radio station would endorse a movie that broke the third commandment. I sat on a bench in the lobby waiting on Brenda dumbfounded.
Exodus 20:7 (ESV)
7 “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.
Then it dawned on me. Nobody else got up and left the movie. Not one. These same people who applauded a Christian radio station did not take offense and leave the free movie. On the drive home it bewildered me. Does God's word mean anything? That Ex 20:7 is a commandment not a suggestion. Why didn't the whole room empty?
I'm no holy roller. I have battled sin just the like the rest of the human race. I am not perfect. I do have convictions. "G.D." is a conviction. The "F" bomb is another. I am not going to sit through a movie with such language. We usually check out the movies for content beforehand but did not do so when the movie was endorsed by one of the leading Christian radio stations in the nation.
They would be quick to justify their support because of the message of the movie about racial injustice. That message does not erase a clear violation of God's third commandment.
Follow this up with a movie Brenda wanted us to see on Saturday. I had never heard of it. The movie is Unplanned. She looked up reviews for the movie and what she read intrigued me. The movie is about abortion from the true life story of a lady who worked for years at Planned Parenthood including being a clinic director. She had two abortions herself. In one scene the abortion is shown including the sonogram and the baby being sucked from the womb. You see bloody fetal matter in the surgical tubing. In one moment you see the baby struggling to survive and then slowly it is vacuumed from the womb. Very disturbing but very real. Murder in the name of convenience. Abortion is the money maker for Planned Parenthood. They may try to cover that truth up with a message about women's healthcare. Watch the movie and see the facts.
Unplanned was the kind of movie that disturbs you. From what Brenda read to me about the movie beforehand I knew I would not be able to eat popcorn during the film. Turner told us he could not eat either. Here is my question. Why did KLTY not endorse that movie? Too graphic? Too real? Too controversial?
As a result of KLTY's decision to endorse a movie with offensive language and not endorse a movie seeking to undo one of the major social evils of our time, the brutal murder of of babies, I can no longer endorse KLTY. I have already changed the dials in my vehicles.
And for all those who chose to stay in that movie I am grieved. Grieved over hard hearts. Grieved over cowardice over convictions. Grieved over a watered down Christianity that appears to have very little impact on the world around us. Let me leave you with this? Would you have stayed in the first movie or walked out? Will you go see the movie Unplanned that takes a bold stand against abortion and Planed Parenthood? It is not an easy movie to watch. It is disturbing. It is also disturbing and a needed message for this day and time. One I am happy to endorse.
I was asked by a church member why we were going to see Unplanned. I responded that I wanted to support a movie that opposes abortion and gets the truth out about the evil intentions of Planned Parenthood.
We took our seats among a couple of hundred of people. A KLTY representative walked up front before the movie began and introduced himself. When he asked how people felt about the radio station people applauded and cheered. Next,we were asked about favorite radio personalities. All over the room people shouted out different names and more applause followed. I just wanted to get on with the movie since we had a hour drive back home afterward.
Right off the bat the movie had some crude language. I raised my eyebrows. This movie was sponsored by a Christian radio station? 30 minutes in one of the movie characters used G.D. You know what I am talking about. When people use God's name to damn others. I immediately looked at Brenda and told her, "I'm done." I rose and walked out with her behind me.
I could not believe a so called Christian radio station would endorse a movie that broke the third commandment. I sat on a bench in the lobby waiting on Brenda dumbfounded.
Exodus 20:7 (ESV)
7 “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.
Then it dawned on me. Nobody else got up and left the movie. Not one. These same people who applauded a Christian radio station did not take offense and leave the free movie. On the drive home it bewildered me. Does God's word mean anything? That Ex 20:7 is a commandment not a suggestion. Why didn't the whole room empty?
I'm no holy roller. I have battled sin just the like the rest of the human race. I am not perfect. I do have convictions. "G.D." is a conviction. The "F" bomb is another. I am not going to sit through a movie with such language. We usually check out the movies for content beforehand but did not do so when the movie was endorsed by one of the leading Christian radio stations in the nation.
They would be quick to justify their support because of the message of the movie about racial injustice. That message does not erase a clear violation of God's third commandment.
Follow this up with a movie Brenda wanted us to see on Saturday. I had never heard of it. The movie is Unplanned. She looked up reviews for the movie and what she read intrigued me. The movie is about abortion from the true life story of a lady who worked for years at Planned Parenthood including being a clinic director. She had two abortions herself. In one scene the abortion is shown including the sonogram and the baby being sucked from the womb. You see bloody fetal matter in the surgical tubing. In one moment you see the baby struggling to survive and then slowly it is vacuumed from the womb. Very disturbing but very real. Murder in the name of convenience. Abortion is the money maker for Planned Parenthood. They may try to cover that truth up with a message about women's healthcare. Watch the movie and see the facts.
Unplanned was the kind of movie that disturbs you. From what Brenda read to me about the movie beforehand I knew I would not be able to eat popcorn during the film. Turner told us he could not eat either. Here is my question. Why did KLTY not endorse that movie? Too graphic? Too real? Too controversial?
As a result of KLTY's decision to endorse a movie with offensive language and not endorse a movie seeking to undo one of the major social evils of our time, the brutal murder of of babies, I can no longer endorse KLTY. I have already changed the dials in my vehicles.
And for all those who chose to stay in that movie I am grieved. Grieved over hard hearts. Grieved over cowardice over convictions. Grieved over a watered down Christianity that appears to have very little impact on the world around us. Let me leave you with this? Would you have stayed in the first movie or walked out? Will you go see the movie Unplanned that takes a bold stand against abortion and Planed Parenthood? It is not an easy movie to watch. It is disturbing. It is also disturbing and a needed message for this day and time. One I am happy to endorse.
I was asked by a church member why we were going to see Unplanned. I responded that I wanted to support a movie that opposes abortion and gets the truth out about the evil intentions of Planned Parenthood.
Monday, April 1, 2019
Stiff Necked
Stiff necked is not a flattering term. It defines obstinance. Stubbornness. Stiff necked people are defiant and rebellious. So characterized Israel, God's chosen people.
They defied and resisted God repeatedly. Over and over again they resisted God's leadership and downright rebelled against His commands. God punished them. He warned them prophets. The stiff necked nation did not listen. Eventually they were conquered and taken into captivity as a nation.
I too have been stiff necked. Many times I've rebelled against the Lord. Multiple times I have dreamt my own dreams and charged full steam ahead in pursuit of them. There have been many crashes and heartaches along the way. There have also been times when I resisted the will of the Lord. I did not like the direction God called me to take. I did not like the challenges ahead. I stiffened my neck and resisted. God got my attention. He has a way of doing that you know.
Are you stiff necked? Are you like soft moldable clay in the hands of the Lord? Do you resist and rebel against God's commands and leadership? Do you humbly comply with what He wants for your life?
God knows how to break down and breakthrough with stiff necked people. His chastisement is not pleasant. It is painful. It is guided by a heart of love for us. God loves us too much to let us go unchecked. He reproves and corrects. It is prof of His love. It is proof we are His children. His reproof is for our own good. [Heb 12:4-11]
I don't want to be stiff necked. I want to be moldable. What about you? I want God to take life and carefully craft it as it most pleasing and useful to Him. I just want to be His vessel. Yielded. Held in His steady hand for whatever purpose He chooses. That is all of our purpose.
Jeremiah 18:1-6 (NKJV)
1 The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying:
2 "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words."
3 Then I went down to the potter's house, and there he was, making something at the wheel.
4 And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make.
5 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying:
6 "O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?" says the LORD. "Look, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel!
They defied and resisted God repeatedly. Over and over again they resisted God's leadership and downright rebelled against His commands. God punished them. He warned them prophets. The stiff necked nation did not listen. Eventually they were conquered and taken into captivity as a nation.
I too have been stiff necked. Many times I've rebelled against the Lord. Multiple times I have dreamt my own dreams and charged full steam ahead in pursuit of them. There have been many crashes and heartaches along the way. There have also been times when I resisted the will of the Lord. I did not like the direction God called me to take. I did not like the challenges ahead. I stiffened my neck and resisted. God got my attention. He has a way of doing that you know.
Are you stiff necked? Are you like soft moldable clay in the hands of the Lord? Do you resist and rebel against God's commands and leadership? Do you humbly comply with what He wants for your life?
God knows how to break down and breakthrough with stiff necked people. His chastisement is not pleasant. It is painful. It is guided by a heart of love for us. God loves us too much to let us go unchecked. He reproves and corrects. It is prof of His love. It is proof we are His children. His reproof is for our own good. [Heb 12:4-11]
I don't want to be stiff necked. I want to be moldable. What about you? I want God to take life and carefully craft it as it most pleasing and useful to Him. I just want to be His vessel. Yielded. Held in His steady hand for whatever purpose He chooses. That is all of our purpose.
Jeremiah 18:1-6 (NKJV)
1 The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying:
2 "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words."
3 Then I went down to the potter's house, and there he was, making something at the wheel.
4 And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make.
5 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying:
6 "O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?" says the LORD. "Look, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel!
Held Hostage By Debt
We live in a debtor society. Most everybody owes somebody. It is a rare thing to meet someone who is not in debt. Debt is so common place these days when you go to buy a car the salesperson immediately asks how much you can afford on a monthly payment. I even heard recently some people are financing vehicles for as long as ten years.
I hate debt and am working and praying for a day when I am completely debt free. That means we've had to say no trying to keep up with everyone else. I have neighbors who have boats, brand new houses and vehicles. Many of them also sport fancy golf carts. How much debt are those people in.
The Bible has a lot to say about money. It has something to say about debt.
Proverbs 22:7 (NKJV)
7 The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender.
I recently heard about a businessman worth around 900 million dollars. I heard about another businessman worth several hundred million dollars. One of these men has made a fortune by other people borrowing his money to finance his products. When people get indebted they become enslaved like a servant. Until that debt is repaid the rich man rules over the poor.
Consumer debt is high. It is nothing to whip out a credit card and just charge it. You can get what you want now and worry about paying for it later. By the time interest is paid on the purchased item ,what looked like such a good deal is not so great after all. It would be better to wait, save and pay cash than to be enslaved in debt.
Churches are not exempt. Rather than praying, waiting, raising the money for their many projects it is quicker to finance them. Churches often struggle under the weight of those debts for years and even decades. Why not trust God on the front end for the money rather than on the back end. The banks do not need our interests. They are getting it from several others.
When I first came to Heritage we were enslaved to well over $100,000 in debt. One man thought it was somewhere in the neighborhood of $132,000. I was not even the pastor yet when God first put it in my heart to believe Him to pay that debt off. I was just filling in for them until God brought them a pastor. It took some time but God showed me I was that pastor.
We began praying earnestly for God to pay down and pay off the debt. We started seeing God whittle it down. We rejoiced when we finally got under $100,000. At the end of 2018 we prayed, fasted and took up a special offering to go toward debt retirement. With only a few dozen of us we celebrated when God supplied $14,000 through people's generosity and sacrifice.
Yesterday we got a chance to celebrate again. In one week God supplied and we were able to pay down $9,000 on our debt. We sit now at $75,000. What is that to God? It is not an immovable mountain. I have seen people give pocket change, sell possessions and reach deep to give generously and sacrificially toward this goal. We have debt retirement thermometer in the fellowship hall. The red ink marked in keeps inching up. We keep rejoicing and keep praying for God to remove the remainder as well.
Heritage has been held hostage by debt for a number of years now. God is slowly setting us free. I have already seen in my mind's eye the celebration when the last penny is paid off. What a day of rejoicing that will be. I believe God for the same thing for Brenda and I. Debt free. Financially free to give even more to Kingdom of God causes. What if a whole church lived that way. I hope and pray I live long enough to see a people who are not held hostage by debt.
I hate debt and am working and praying for a day when I am completely debt free. That means we've had to say no trying to keep up with everyone else. I have neighbors who have boats, brand new houses and vehicles. Many of them also sport fancy golf carts. How much debt are those people in.
The Bible has a lot to say about money. It has something to say about debt.
Proverbs 22:7 (NKJV)
7 The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender.
I recently heard about a businessman worth around 900 million dollars. I heard about another businessman worth several hundred million dollars. One of these men has made a fortune by other people borrowing his money to finance his products. When people get indebted they become enslaved like a servant. Until that debt is repaid the rich man rules over the poor.
Consumer debt is high. It is nothing to whip out a credit card and just charge it. You can get what you want now and worry about paying for it later. By the time interest is paid on the purchased item ,what looked like such a good deal is not so great after all. It would be better to wait, save and pay cash than to be enslaved in debt.
Churches are not exempt. Rather than praying, waiting, raising the money for their many projects it is quicker to finance them. Churches often struggle under the weight of those debts for years and even decades. Why not trust God on the front end for the money rather than on the back end. The banks do not need our interests. They are getting it from several others.
When I first came to Heritage we were enslaved to well over $100,000 in debt. One man thought it was somewhere in the neighborhood of $132,000. I was not even the pastor yet when God first put it in my heart to believe Him to pay that debt off. I was just filling in for them until God brought them a pastor. It took some time but God showed me I was that pastor.
We began praying earnestly for God to pay down and pay off the debt. We started seeing God whittle it down. We rejoiced when we finally got under $100,000. At the end of 2018 we prayed, fasted and took up a special offering to go toward debt retirement. With only a few dozen of us we celebrated when God supplied $14,000 through people's generosity and sacrifice.
Yesterday we got a chance to celebrate again. In one week God supplied and we were able to pay down $9,000 on our debt. We sit now at $75,000. What is that to God? It is not an immovable mountain. I have seen people give pocket change, sell possessions and reach deep to give generously and sacrificially toward this goal. We have debt retirement thermometer in the fellowship hall. The red ink marked in keeps inching up. We keep rejoicing and keep praying for God to remove the remainder as well.
Heritage has been held hostage by debt for a number of years now. God is slowly setting us free. I have already seen in my mind's eye the celebration when the last penny is paid off. What a day of rejoicing that will be. I believe God for the same thing for Brenda and I. Debt free. Financially free to give even more to Kingdom of God causes. What if a whole church lived that way. I hope and pray I live long enough to see a people who are not held hostage by debt.
On Mission
Today marks a new day in my ministry. A day unlike any I have ever experienced before. God has put a large mission in front of me. A mission that requires more faith and effort than I am accustomed. A mission that definitely stretches me way out of my comfort zone. A biblical mission. A Great Commission.
God does that. He calls us to things way beyond our abilities and resources. Impossible things that will never be accomplished unless God does it. When He does those things He alone will get all glory.
Let me be honest. For much of my ministry I have been a coward. Many would not identify me that way. They might think I'm bold and courageous. God knows the truth. I have been a coward. He has called me to something that makes me summon raw courage to follow through. I am resolved to do what He has commanded.
I have prayed about it. I have heard His call clearly. I can't shake it. I can't dismiss it. I can't ignore it. Woe is me if I disobey it. God requires obedience. He demands me to follow through. He beckons me to follow Him into this next great adventure. He invites me to believe Him for a miracle. In fact, a series of miracles.
I am not at liberty to share what this new mission is. That is not the point. The point is God calls all of us to be on mission for Him. He calls all of us out of our comfort zones and to follow Him into great adventures. The Bible is filled with such stories. David's life was one adventure after the next. From shepherd boy to military champion. From legendary warrior to fugitive. From fugitive to revolutionary and eventually king. His adventures did not stop when he became a king. There were ups and downs. Through all of it David was a man after God's own heart. The Psalms are filled with his passionate desire to know God. David was a man on mission.
Paul was also a man on mission. He received very clear marching orders. Orders many of us would have shirked. Read them for yourself.
Acts 9:15-16 (NKJV)
15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.
16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake."
Would you want a mission from God that foreshadowed your suffering? Would you embrace that mission? Paul did. Paul lived on mission for Jesus. I love what Paul said about himself.
Acts 20:24 (NKJV)
24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
God does that. He calls us to things way beyond our abilities and resources. Impossible things that will never be accomplished unless God does it. When He does those things He alone will get all glory.
Let me be honest. For much of my ministry I have been a coward. Many would not identify me that way. They might think I'm bold and courageous. God knows the truth. I have been a coward. He has called me to something that makes me summon raw courage to follow through. I am resolved to do what He has commanded.
I have prayed about it. I have heard His call clearly. I can't shake it. I can't dismiss it. I can't ignore it. Woe is me if I disobey it. God requires obedience. He demands me to follow through. He beckons me to follow Him into this next great adventure. He invites me to believe Him for a miracle. In fact, a series of miracles.
I am not at liberty to share what this new mission is. That is not the point. The point is God calls all of us to be on mission for Him. He calls all of us out of our comfort zones and to follow Him into great adventures. The Bible is filled with such stories. David's life was one adventure after the next. From shepherd boy to military champion. From legendary warrior to fugitive. From fugitive to revolutionary and eventually king. His adventures did not stop when he became a king. There were ups and downs. Through all of it David was a man after God's own heart. The Psalms are filled with his passionate desire to know God. David was a man on mission.
Paul was also a man on mission. He received very clear marching orders. Orders many of us would have shirked. Read them for yourself.
Acts 9:15-16 (NKJV)
15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.
16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake."
Would you want a mission from God that foreshadowed your suffering? Would you embrace that mission? Paul did. Paul lived on mission for Jesus. I love what Paul said about himself.
Acts 20:24 (NKJV)
24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
No matter how much Paul suffered he did not let that deter him from His God ordained mission. Paul testified to the gospel of God's grace to the very end of his days. He surely suffered for it.
Let me point you to one more person on mission for Jesus. He is a coach. He is a passionate follower of Jesus. He preaches and makes Godly stands for Christ in the classroom, on the gridiron, in the weight room, in churches and in jail houses. He recently told me God told him years ago, "Take Me with you everywhere you go." He has done that. I have seen his influence on my son first hand. Hardly a day goes by that Turner does not share a story about this coach and something influential he says. I respect this man. I recently emailed him to thank him for his Godly influence on students, mine especially. He wrote me back something surprising. He told me he has paid a high price for living on mission. He has been persecuted. He did not go into detail but the world persecutes those who live on mission for Jesus.
Following Jesus and living on mission is costly. If we, like Paul, do not count our lives dear, the high cost is inconsequential compared to the mission. So I say, "Onward Christian soldiers marching as unto war." You have a mission. I have a mission. May we stay on task. May we face our fears, overcome our obstacles, stare down sinister evil, swing the sword of the Lord and fight the good fight. May we stay the course. May we do what we say we believe and follow through on what we have been commissioned to do.
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