Monday, December 24, 2012

Devo from 1 Tim.4:15-16

Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.--1 Tim.4:15-16 Diligence---that is a word that needs attention by everyone, but in this context especially Christians. It is in the daily grind that we can get derailed. We are easily distracted, and life becomes distorted when we stray from living as God would have us live; and as we truly want to live down-deep. This is why it is so important that we turn our attention to the Scriptures early and often. How often? As often as necessary to keep us on track. The Bible contains the teaching and doctrine that we desire to live by as followers of Jesus. Yet, many tune them out. Oh, not intentionally. We tune them out by not going to the Bible on a regular basis. The Word is a rock, and it certainly is "a lamp unto our feet." We must be diligent (highly intentional and in tune), so others see our progress and that progress impacts them as well. We all need the encouragement to stay in the race. By watching your own life and keeping with Scripture and persevering you will save yourself a lot of heartache. Also, you will help a lot of sojourners in this walk of life as well. So, stay dialed in! Be diligent in the study and teaching of God's Word. Remember, diligence leads to perseverance; and perseverance is that quality that sees to it that we finish the race. Be diligent daily and finish well.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Fight of Faith

Paul instructs his young disciple Timothy so that he can fight the good fight of faith. It is a battle. It is daily. It is every believer's battle. We can't let our guard down for a minute. These battles are most often lost in the seconds of life. The enemy seeks to knock us out. He looks for an opening to get a jab in and eventually a fatal blow. He is patient. He will wait us out. Stay steady, hold on to faith and good conscience. How? Do the basics: devotion to Christ in study of the Word and in prayer,get an accountability partner to keep you focused, and share Jesus regularly with others to grow. These are how we stay strong. Some have rejected these and have consequently "shipwrecked their faith." Paul even names a couple of guys who were sent to the "dark-side" to be taught a lesson. Don't go there! Be preventive by not merely assimilating information from your study of Scripture, but applying the information. Hang in there!--{Devotion taken from 1 Tim.1:18-20)

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Hold Your Grip on Scripture

So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teaching we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.--2 Thess.2:15 Paul was very aware of what would happen after he left a town upon leading people to Christ. He would stay as long as the Holy Spirit would allow, teaching and training the people in the teachings of Christ and Scripture. He knew that false teachers would challenge the belief and understanding of the new converts as soon as he left. He knew that these empowered by satan's schemes and their own jealousy would try to pry their grip from the truth. While he tried to ground them in the truth during his stays, he knew the reality that some would listen to the lies and lose their grip. Consequently, he would come back through as often as he could or send people to help in the continued disciple-making process. It also prompted him to write notes or letters that would end up being essential contributions to the New Testament. These Scriptures would be Holy-inspired as well. Jesus himself revealed the fulfilling of the Old Testament by explaining to Paul how it all fit together.---Paul tells these new followers of Jesus to "stand firm and hold to the teaching we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter." Later on Peter would refer to Paul's writings as Scripture. ---We must hold our grip on the truth, because the devil will use many schemes to get us to question God. You see, this goes as far back as the original fall of man. The devil said to the woman "God didn't really say..." Bad things happen when we question the whole truth of God's Word. For good reason, Paul said, "...stand firm and hold to the teaching we passed on to you..." When is the last time you heard someone say, "God didn't really say..."? Think about it. It was an attempt to get you to lose your grip. As humans we only question God's Word when we don't like what it says. I'm sure Adam and Eve were getting bugged out about not getting to eat from that one tree, because Satan kept attacking their potential for selfishness. Never mind the fact that they could eat of every other tree. Likewise, we get bugged out about "the don'ts", and Satan plays us for the fool; even though God has made things clear...and we lose grip. Hold firm to the truth. Live to glorify God. Remember the things that He did say. Finally we need focus to maintain our grip: " And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again."-2 Cor.5:15 Hold your grip on Scriptures, and live for Him.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Note from Acts 19:27

A riot was started in Ephesus by a business man. Demetrius made little iconic gods representing the goddess Artemis. Business was down, because many people were accepting Jesus and turning from this false god. Consequently, a riot was incited to go against those preaching the gospel. This much I garnered from this incident---A god that can be robbed of his/her majesty is no god at all. The true God does not need man to protect His glory and honor.

Monday, October 29, 2012

Devo.-Acts 17:10-15

Being run out of Thessalonica, Paul goes to Berea with Silas and Co. They bring the Gospel to the local synagogue. The Bereans actually received the message with eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if Paul's message was true. They actually had an open-mind for the truth. As a result, many of the Jews believed as did a large number of Greek men and women also. When neighboring Thessalonica heard Paul was preaching in Berea they went there stirring up trouble, causing Paul to have to leave town. Silas and Timothy stayed back while Paul hid out in Athens and waited until the time the Holy Spirit would allow him to "resurface." ---The folks in Berea that compared Paul's message with the Scriptures didn't need miracles to believe! The Word of God will stand on when people are open to the truth.---Pray that God would open the minds and hearts of the people around us to the Gospel. Come Holy Spirit do a great work!

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Devo from Acts 14:8-20 "Dust Off"

Paul heals a crippled man in Lystra and ends up getting stoned by the people. Go figure. Was this an early humbling of Paul? We're left with no clear answer. The people of Lystra worshiped mythical gods, and they wanted to offer sacrifices to Paul and Barnabas after witnessing the healing. Paul and Barnabas tried to deter the crowd from worshiping them, but it quickly turned into a riot as the evil men from Antioch and Iconium had followed them to Lystra and stirred the people against them. It took no time to whip the superstitious crowd into a frenzy. They stoned Paul outside the city and left him for dead. Afterwards the disciples gathered around him. Getting up, he dusted himself off, and went back into the city. They left for Derbe the next day. ---Life can be confusing at times. Paul was doing the Lord's work, and had an attempt on his life for healing a man. Life doesn't always make sense. So how do we handle it when we get crapped on while doing right? Sometimes you just have to dust yourself off, get back up and start a new day. (It's good to have friends gather around you in times like that also.)

Thursday, October 11, 2012

What Pastor's Want to Say but Don't

If you haven't figured this out by now: principals, teachers, police officers and pastors are in a select group (along with some others) that have heard every excuse under the sun. Just because they nod and act like they accept your excuse doesn't mean they believe you, nor does it mean they don't believe you. Some of us like to hope that folks will come around, and therefore extend a little more grace than others. (It doesn't mean we're gullible!) One of those things that gripes pastors (not me of course...aight me too)is the ole "the church isn't there for me" statement people like to share (gossip) with friends. By the way, gossip is of the devil...so is anger. (In case, you were disturbed by any of this.) <--I suppose you could add all that to the things we don't say much about either except in select sermons. ---Back to the "the church wasn't there for me" thingy---that couldn't be further from the truth. The church still meets at the same place. When people stop going to church, we can't help them. We've never not been able to help someone that wanted to be helped. People like to rebel against Christ and His church and then blame it on the church. Shut up. Why this vent? Why now? I have no beef with anyone. Unfortunately, it is too common of a scenario in the midst of Kingdom work. However, lately I've been around folks that have busted their fanny doing whatever they could whether it cost them time, money or talents they did or didn't have serving Christ in His church. While others were explaining why they couldn't (and no doubt these are often legit) there have been people that pick up the mother-load and do whatever it takes. And yeah, they have demanding jobs, they have ailing family members, they have lives!---Repent and live for Christ while you still can. The church doors are open, and we need people that will do whatever it takes. ---Fortunately, we know what these folks look like too. Pray to God today, and be some earthly good for His Kingdom agenda. There are two kinds of people: those that repent and those that don't. ***Oh yeah, so don't be mad or anything, because I didn't really say any of this. This was just junk I said pastors would say, but they don't. Aight.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Why Kids Ministry Needs to Excel

For some churches children's ministry is just glorified baby-sitting time. Other churches are stuck in the stone ages (I'm not even going to describe this, because your church might be still doing some of these things.). While it is ridiculous to think you can compete with Disney, we have to admit they have taught us a few things on how to make kids want to come back. The Kids area is one of the most impressionable areas to those considering a church or even church in the first place. More and more young parents are deciding to at least give church a try, because they want their children in a good moral environment. Therefore, it would behoove the church to put some of it's best and friendliest people into this ministry and do so in such a manner as the child wants to come back. Our goal is to teach Jesus in such a fashion that the children learn and want to know more. The process can be and should be fun. Kids like fun. Fun makes people want to come back. We want to be so effective at this that the child would pitch a temper-tantrum if the parents said they were just going to stay home from church that day. While I've never heard of that goal being met yet, recently we had something so close to it that I was inspired to write this. ---A family had decided they were just going to stay home on Sunday (it was cloudy and potentially rainy day...you know how that goes). But that Sunday morning there was a knock on the door. One of their children's friends had gone to church with the family the week before, and he/she asked if he/she could go with them today. Ha-stinkin'-hah! Out of the mouth of babes! Evidently, the family looked at this as a sign from the Holy One, and came to church. ---Hey church, keep doing your best. Love on the children in such a way, teaching them in fun ways that they don't want to miss...and they drag the neighborhood with them. :-)

Thursday, September 27, 2012

First Things First

After encountering Jesus, Saul doesn't eat or talk for three days. He is blinded on his way to arrest and persecute christians. Talk about being put in time-out! The Son of God blinds him, and asks him why he is persecuting him. Then, he let's him think on it. Saul said nothing back, because there was nothing to say back. He was guilty, and he knew that Jesus spoke the truth. What went on in the mind of Saul these three days? He was very passionate for God, but he now realized that he had very passionately rejected the Messiah of God. He was committed to committing treason to the very God he loved. He probably wondered why that flash of lightning didn't kill him on the spot. His sins were certainly worthy of such a death. This would naturally lead to wondering why he was still alive. During this black-out, scenes like the one of Stephen being stoned to death had to play over and over in his mind. He had to think (like he would later write in Romans) "Oh what a wretched man I am, who will rescue me from this body of death?" The next thing he knows the scales are being removed from his eyes by a man that he was certainly coming to persecute. He can see. The man lays hands on Saul and he receives the Holy Spirit, giving evidence of Saul's conversion from the Damascus Road experience. But catch this, everyone else didn't know what was going on in Saul's head. Everyone else didn't know that he had repented and turned to Jesus, because he hasn't spoken in three days. So, the first thing he does is get baptized to identify with Christ...then he eats and drinks for physical nourishment. First things first, let others know that you have come to Christ. ---Acts 9:1-19

Saturday, September 15, 2012

All I Can Do

All I can do is fall down on my knees and cry holy. So, I wake up on a Saturday morning to spend some quality time with God. It's fall and I know I'm gonna watch some football. It's blue sky and the temperatures are getting nice. It's a great time to be alive. Then I get a message that a friend's brother has died. It's not such a beautiful day for everyone. Then my mind turns to the problems of unrest around the world, and I'm reminded of how we tune those things out by merely a click of the remote. My mind quickly switches gears to happy thoughts (because that's what we do) about my daughter who is visiting NYC for the first time with her husband. I bet they're having a great time. Then I think about tough things in my own life, and how I need to persevere until Jesus comes back. I think of all the marriages that are struggling. I think of the $16trillion in debt. I think of all the un or under-employed. I think of all the people that don't have a clue about Jesus, and about the ones that don't even care. ---Then all I can do is fall on my knees and cry holy. And after much prayer and contemplation with God, I'm reminded that his grace is sufficient for me in my weaknesses. I'm blessed to know Jesus the Christ as Savior. ---Do you know Him? Do you know peace? We can't make things right in the world with the click of a remote, but we can be made right with God in Christ Jesus. It's called the Great Exchange. (see 2Cor.5:21)

Friday, September 14, 2012

Embrace the Thorn

If we're not careful our temporary failures or weaknesses can become bigger than our victories in Christ. The enemy tends to take our weaknesses and hardships and magnify those to the point we forget who we are in Christ Jesus. We forget the power we have access to in the Holy Spirit. We forget that we are God's child, and a chosen one to be His ambassador here.---Believe it or not, the Apostle Paul had his own struggles. Gratefully, the Scriptures leave exactly what it was up to the imagination. It allows the saint in times of struggle to imagine that perhaps Paul and them shared the same weakness. Paul said, "To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me."---Ever felt that way? Notice that Paul doesn't blame God for the thorn, but he does acknowledge that God allowed it. In fact, he goes on to say that he pleaded with God three times to take it away...and He didn't. Instead, Jesus said to him, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."---What is your weakness? What is the thing you battle nearly every day? What is the thing you have or would ask to remove from your life so that you could be the person God wants you to be? Ah, you know what I'm talking about. We all do.---Depending on where you are spiritually, some time or another you've probably asked God to remove whatever it is. Jesus told Paul to accept the weakness, and to embrace Jesus for His grace would be sufficient to get him through whatever. In fact, you will learn that it's not about you. Christ's power is made complete in our weakness. Paul then chose to boast about his weaknesses (yes, he said plural), so that Christ's power may rest on him. Theologians have long wondered what Paul's "thorn in the flesh" was. We all wonder. We all want to justify our "weaknesses." Paul cleans it up with this: "That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." ---Embrace your thorn today. Acknowledge it. Depend on Christ to see you through as you limp through it; whether it be a weakness, insult, hardship, persecution, or difficulty. Don't let Satan knock you down and out with this thorn. Instead, choose to lean on the grace and sufficiency of Christ to get you through. Get up! You're not the only one going through "stuff". We all are. May the power of Christ rest on you throughout your days. [see 2Cor.12:7-10]

Thursday, September 13, 2012

What is life all about?

What is life all about? Would we really be satisfied if we had all the money in the world? Naw. We would have to build bigger, better, even more beautiful stuff. We would try to buy happiness. Worse, we might block ourselves in and try to keep everyone away from "our" money. What if we could have all the sex our flesh desired? Would that do it for us? We could be like the man who had 25 children by sixteen women. He was a father to none. What if we had all the power, and the whole world jumped at our every request? Would that make us happy? ---Money, power, and the lust of the flesh is all about one person...us. It rarely considers others. God has built us for community. He has built us to have relationship with Him and others. We are physical, spiritual beings. In the flesh we deal with and live with fellow human beings. This is a practice for the next life. We communicate to God spirit to spirit. Those that have relationship with God have this relationship, because they've been born into the spirit by receiving Jesus Christ (jn.1). Those that don't have Christ do not have this relationship (Jn.3). It is easy to get caught up in this life, because it is what we see and feel. But if we will slow down, we can see God (Rom.1;Ps.19). Jesus explained that if we will give up this life and live for Him, then we will live. God has eternal life in mind for us. He has a better plan than this old life can bring. Think about it. Only a handful of people have most of the money and power on earth. So, the odds are stacked against us being the one. Yet, God promises eternal life to those who receive Jesus. He promises treasures in heaven. Nothing that happens on earth can take that away. It's not a suicide mission. It is hope and a future. The good news is that Jesus is the first-fruit of this new life. ---So what will it be? Will you keep on worrying about this life and making it to the top of the company ladder? Will you be frustrated and/or mad at God every time your plans don't work out? Or will you live obedient to Christ, and if He wants to put you at the top of the company (see Daniel, Joseph, etc.)for His purposes then let it happen? All the money, sex and power won't do it for you (see Hollywood). Indeed we can pursue the false dream that satan sets before us, when he says "Did God really say...?" (insinuating that God doesn't know best, nor does He want what's best for us). Perhaps we should snap out of it, and live for Him who died for us and rose again(2Cor.5). For God has demonstrated His love in that Christ died for sinners (Rom.5). *For further thought read about a man that had it all (Ecclesiastes).

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

The Right Thing on Your Plate

Monday nights are pretty much meeting night for me. Honestly, I'm not a big fan of Mondays, nor am I particularly a big fan of meetings; so I pretty much knock them out with one swing and look forward to a great week after that.(Ah, a look into my soul.)However, I got stunned this week. I took my guys that I normally meet with on Monday, and we checked out a new men's group starting up in the church. We were there for moral support (at least that was the plan). After being there for just a short while, I realized that I needed to be there. This group was for accountability and encouragement of men to become the godly men God desires. God put this on my heart years ago. My flesh quickly tried to tell me that I couldn't add one more thing to my plate. However, the Spirit squashed that thought rather quickly. What would I do with that 120 minutes? Yeah, I'm busy. All these guys are busy too. It was about a choice of investing spiritually into other guys, and them investing in me as well. We want godly men. We want to be godly men, and before me stood the opportunity to help facilitate that. *If the thing that you add to your plate changes your life for the better, and the lives of other men for the better; then it is not just another thing on your plate...it's the right thing on your plate.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

God Can Move Mountains and Small Buildings

A man approached Jesus, kneeling and asking for mercy. He wanted Jesus to heal his son, because the disciples were unsuccessful. Jesus healed the boy and chastised the disciples for their lack of faith. Afterwards the disciples approached Jesus in private and asked why they were unable to heal the boy. ---Jesus responded, "Because you have so little faith." Now we know that this was a special season of miracles that God allowed through the Twelve Apostles. Today, there are occasions when God still does the miraculous. ---Jesus went on to tell them that they could tell a mountain to move and it would. Really? Could THAT still happen today? YES! It was God that brought this passage to my mind recently as He spoke to me Spirit to spirit. Our church was looking to build on the land that we already noted that God had given us. When we got serious into the pricing and timing of building on this land, we were driven to some hard-core prayer. The reality was we need about $1.5 million. In reality this would put the building project a few years back with a bunch of fundraising to come. ---Not happy with the dollar amount and putting this off any longer, we prayed hard believing God could pull something off. After all, He "owns the cattle on a thousand hills." God did not move a mountain, but He did put a building on a piece of land and then turned our heads to look at it. God, and God alone, made it available. He brought it down to a price we could deal with, with just a little bit of faith. Can God move mountains...errr buildings? Yes, He can. "...if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain,'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." See Matthew 17:14-20

Devo from Acts 4:32-36

This is the ultimate "we're not from around here" or "kingdom-minded" attitude passage in action. The key here was that all believers were united in heart and mind. No one claimed that anything belonged to him. They didn't care about stuff. They shared with brothers and sisters in need. ---Don't miss this: along with this attitude of sharing came great power to testify of the resurrection of Jesus and much grace was upon all the believers. There were no needy persons among them. People would sell land, possessions, or whatever to meet the needs of others. They would bring the money to the disciples and have them distribute as anyone had need. ---When hearts and minds are united among believers, money is no longer an issue. But even greater is the power given by the Holy Spirit to share the testimony of Jesus the LORD.

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Whose Son is the Christ?

Jesus makes them (listeners) think. He quotes King David from Psalms 110:1 "David calls him (Christ) the Lord, then how can he be his son?"---Answer: Jesus is the christ. He was before David. Jesus is God. He is the One that sits at the right hand of God the Father. Jesus was born into the world (incarnation: God became flesh:Jn.1:14) from David's lineage. Jesus moves them to critical thinking, instead of being sucked in by the deception of the religionists. He moves them to think on their own: "Whose son is the Christ?" It is high-time that they figure it out. He warns them of the "teachers of the Law." They are more concerned with their religious seats of high places than the TRUTH. They rob widows and pray lengthy prayers for attention. They will be punished. Think for yourself. Seek the Truth. In this case, the Truth was standing before them. ---In our day, it is a little different. Christianity is attacked instead of considered. We carry the Good News of Jesus, and the world turns a deaf ear to the Truth. The Truth is Jesus is God. He came. He was crucified. He arose. He is coming back. Check it out, while He still may be found.---Lk.20:41-47

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Discipleship

Disciples making disciples is what the Great Commission is all about (Mt.28:18-20). Consequently, it is what most churches would say that they are all about. But like prayer and Bible study, it is so hard to stay focused and persevere. The enemy sets out a scheme in spiritual battle to defeat churches in the area of DMD just like he fights individuals in their prayer lives. So, a church has to be extremely intentional in the discipleship of new believers. The church has to have laser-like focus so the discipling of the new believer stays on course. We must be intentional in every age group. We can't just throw a Bible at a new believer and say, "good luck." A four week study just doesn't do it either. Our success in discipling new believers could be summed up like this: Intentional-Distractions=How we are really doing in Discipleship. Is your church intentional about growing new christians? Are you focused on this, and are you removing the distractions as best you can? Have you taken the time to evaluate how you really are doing in the Disciples Making Disciples arena?

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Got Your Back, Get Mine

It's no secret that it's not okay to attack any group today, but Christians. I absolutely believe we should not attack our fellow man with verbiage, even while we maintain differences. "Go along, get along" doesn't mean you have to agree with me, nor does it mean that I have to agree with you. If you're group is into blindly jumping off cliffs, then I'm probably not going to hang with you. I may disagree with you, but I ain't your daddy. So, rock on. (I digress.) ---There is another current that runs beneath this whole tolerance/intolerance thing. When a christian is verbally assaulted, slandered or even slaughtered sometimes by the media's big club, social media or whoever; they are doubly attacked if a friend gets their back. Recently, a sports media guy put some tweets out that subtly made me aware that he was a believer. Prior to this, I had no idea. It wasn't in your face, but he shared simple things. I thought that was pretty cool. However, an atheist didn't think it was cool that this man just simply expressed some things from his christian perspective. So, this guy attacks him and basically tells him to shut up (no free speech for christians). The christian responded that he respectfully disagreed. ---My first thoughts were to affirm my (new-found) brother. But then, I thought of the response I've gotten recently about jumping in this melee. I thought, if I get this guy's back then the conversation may heat up even though I speak respectfully. I think of what others have said recently that make it sound like we're hate-mongers for even replying. While I certainly don't believe in arguing with the not-yet believers, I do think I should take up for my guy. You see, christians are known for shooting their own. But they also leave their own to be crucified in the public arena. That is where we have gone wrong. We've allowed the media to shut us up. We can do this respectfully. There are christians that don't have home-training or social skills and should keep their mouths shut and their fingers off the key board. Hey, play with the keyboard, but for goodness' sake don't push "send"! Gratefully, we do have some that can respectfully defend the faith. Pray for them to rise up. Christians are servants of the Most High God. We love God and we love people. That's how we roll. It's ignorant to attack christians. It's like cutting off the hand that feeds you. (As I've written many times, we are the ones that build hospitals, show up first in Disaster Relief, bring food, etc.)---So when those intolerant of believers go on their rant, if you have the skills get your brother's back; if you lack the ability to speak the truth in love, then pray. The opposition might back off when they know we'll speak up for one another. Maybe they won't. But at least they won't have free reign to say whatever expecting no comeback. After all is said and done we only really care about pleasing God, but while we're here; it won't hurt to get your brother's back.

Friday, August 17, 2012

When "I don't know" isn't good enough

The chief priests and teachers of the Law were supposed to be the smart ones. They had all the answers (allegedly). So they decided to trap Jesus. That should be easy, right? There were more of them than the one of him. As they posed their question to trap Jesus, he turned the question back on them. They huddled up, and said, "well if we say this, then he'll say that; but if we say this then the people will be mad at us." So they came back with this wise answer: "We don't know..." "I don't know" is not a good enough answer especially when eternity hangs in the balance. It seems like the boys ought to head back to the books or something and figure it out!---Think about other times when "I don't know" isn't good enough. "Is the chicken cooked all the way?" You better get that one right. "Is anyone standing in front of the plane as it's about to take off?" You might want to know that one. "Did you lock the door...did you flush the toilet...did you brush your teeth" (yuck, in the same sentence!). The point is there are lot of questions we ask that "I don't know" is not an acceptable answer. ---These guys would end up putting Jesus on a cross, because they didn't know the answer. Some people are living an antichrist life right now, because they haven't sought out the answer to life. Heaven, Hell, real or not? ---Is "I don't know" good enough? God has given us the Scriptures. I recommend you check them out. see Luke 20:1-8

Friday, August 10, 2012

Uncomfortable

All through the Bible God calls his people out to do something. He calls them out from a place to a promise. He expects them to trust Him with the unknown. God called Abraham, Moses, Jeremiah to uncomfortable tasks and places. When the children of Israel were about to cross over into the Promised Land, it was anything but comfortable. It was called the Promised Land, not the Comfort Zone. They would first have to cross a raging river, and then they would have to fight to conquer the land. God is looking for people to trust Him even with the stuff He has given to them. It's a place of trust, faith, dependence on God. It is often a little foggy and unclear, but that is the deal. We trust in the promises of God. When was a time God asked you to do something that was comfortable? (I'll answer for you: rare, if ever.)I've shared Jesus with total strangers, new acquaintances to my grouchy old uncle. These were not comfortable situations. Yet, when we are obedient, we get to see God do might things first-hand. Abraham was given a son which Jesus would eventually be a descendant. Moses would set the captives free. I've been allowed to lead many people to Christ, because I got uncomfortable. So, please, if your excuse is ever, "I'm uncomfortable," don't tell me.

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Reflection of Camp

I don't know why it's taken so long, but I did my first "camp pastor" thing with a sister church this week (and was very grateful for the opportunity). An added bonus was bringing our worship leader and some of his friends to lead a totally awesome worship experience with 3rd-5th Graders. Let me say how proud I was of these young folks who went above and beyond the call of duty. They did a fantastic job, and the kids loved them. They were dishing out autographs in the cafeteria at lunch time, because the children loved them so much. That was fun. The kids showed me exactly why Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me." Their worship was unabashed, unashamed, and as loud as they could sing. The adult volunteers that gave of their time and money to come and serve tirelessly had the greatest attitudes. Not to be missed in all of this is the fact that a church loves their children enough to set a special time for them like this (and budget it!). The heart of the leader was mixed all up in this. My friend (he acts all tough) has the best for the children in mind. A few years ago, he switched from youth ministry to children's ministry, because he wanted to have more influence on the foundation of the faith for children.---So, I prepared well in advance, because I wanted to not only lead children to Christ, but also give them some stuff that would help their walk. It was a good experience for me to adjust with the flow and needs as I sensed them throughout the week. It was interesting that by the end of the week, God had me giving them three verses that would help them cope and flourish in the christian walk. I've labeled these verses and tell them to our church all the time: the Bad News Good News verse is Rom.6:23; the Hope So to Know So verse is 1Jn.5:13; and the We Ain't From Around Here verse is Eph.2:6. Try them on for size, you'll find hope and peace.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Devo. Lk.19:1-10

Zaccheus showed his true faith and repentance by giving away over and above the money he had exploited from the people. It wasn't this act that saved him, rather the act was evidence to his salvation. Jesus confirmed this.---Many in the crowd were upset (questioning) with Jesus hanging around a sinner like Zach. This gave Jesus the opportunity to explain that his whole purpose for coming was to seek and save the lost. Jesus came to save people like Zach...people like you and me, sinners. Only lost people get found. Only lost people get saved. We're all lost until we meet Jesus and accept him as Savior. The difference is some want to pretend they are not sinners (lost) by saying that they are good people. The stubborn won't be saved. Confession comes before salvation.

Sunday, July 22, 2012

No Need to Hate and No Need to be Shocked

I know the Hater is going to hate, but they're ain't no need(southern, imperfect grammar for effect). The latest media spin to attempt to get out of control may prove to be a huge mistake. You can mess with Christians, but mess with the Christian's chicken, and you have declared war. Huge mistake! Truett Cathy is a great American success story. He needed a road out of poverty, and he built a bridge. But he didn't forget his fellow man. Read his story on your own time, this really isn't about him. It's about stupidity. Let me redirect by saying this: if I were to speak to a person of any religious belief; I wouldn't be shocked when they lived by that group's standards. For instance, if in their "book" it said they drank lime gatorade every Monday, I wouldn't be surprised if they drank lime gatorade every Monday. If their book explained their beliefs, and I saw that they lived their lives by this belief; well then, things would match up. They are just doing what "they" do. If a person wants do things based on their beliefs, and I disagree with them; then that is their business. I don't have to like it; but I ain't their Daddy. ---Let me "splain" something to the left-side of the field. I'm not judging you. I don't care what you do. I'm not even calling you names (assuming you're ok with being called "left"). ---But get this, if you ask a for- sure-enough born-again believer in Jesus and the Bible, there are certain responses you shouldn't be surprised when you get from them. Mr. Cathy recently gave one of those, and simply responded "guilty as charged." I know, I know there are folks with variant beliefs on the Scriptures modified for their lifestyle. I am not judging them either. God is the Judge and he'll deal with you, me, all of us. I'm good with that. (And it doesn't matter if I'm good with that.) I guess what I'm saying is Yes. The answer to all your "Larry King-type" questions is "yes." You know what I should say by the Bible. Too many Pastors and Christians side-step stuff. Yes, I agree with what the Bible says about any controversial question you want to ask me. Yes, I believe Jesus is the only way to salvation...because He said so. AND I don't hate you for believing otherwise. I even strangely respect it when you just stick to your solid ground. BUT there is no need to be shocked when I stand with my convictions. If you wanna boycott something, then boycott THIS. Just kidding...sounded too fun. Respect and dialogue. Otherwise, y'all gonna miss the Christian chicken in Boston. Peace.

Friday, July 20, 2012

Rich Man, Poor Man, and the Middle Man

Devo from Luke 18:18-30 A rich young ruler sought from Jesus how he could attain eternal life. The young man pointed to his good deeds. Yet, Jesus pointed out to him that he was still lacking. We tend to do that. We look to the good side of our account, and turn a blind-eye to our short-comings. Knowing that his wealth and the power and connections that come with that meant too much to the man, Jesus told him to shed his wealth and follow him. The man was sad, because that had him dying to self, to his world. The onlookers were astonished. They thought, if the rich man can't be saved, then who can? Jesus explained that salvation by man (works) is impossible. You can't get to God without God! Yet, salvation is possible through God. Peter jumped in to proclaim that the disciples had dropped all to follow Jesus. To which Jesus pointed out, all who forsake this world for God's kingdom will be rewarded many times over in the age to come. ---It is tough for the rich to give up their power and connections to follow Jesus. Dying to self seems the toughest when associated with giving up wealth or money. Their security is tied up to the fact they have plenty of dollars. The poor have a tougher time giving up relationships. To follow Christ they often need to sever relationships, but have a tough time with that. Meanwhile, the middle class have a tougher time giving up the achievement dream. Sometimes that plays out in their offering of time, talent or money. The middle class has a hard time dying to self when the choice is between adding on to the garage or adding on to the church or mission work. Each one has to give up something to follow Jesus, but Jesus promises greater rewards in the age to come!

Friday, July 13, 2012

Jesus is high on Scripture

Jesus has a high view of Scripture. Man apparently kind of has a high view of Scripture. It is the number one selling book, and has been for a long time. You can buy it in a variety of English translations, as well as many other languages. You can buy it with a variety of colors, with notes, and without notes. The most notable differences between Jesus' view of Scripture and ours: he actually read it, quoted it, hid it in his heart; and most importantly he lived by it. In Luke 4 when he was telling the folks from his neighborhood why he came, he quoted Isaiah the prophet. We read the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4. In that passage Jesus quoted Scripture back at Satan as the old nemesis tried to tempt Jesus. Later on, after Jesus' resurrection he chose to reveal himself to two guys (on the Road to Emmaus) as the resurrected Christ by using the Scriptures instead of simply showing the nail scars or the scar in his side. In today's time we will read where some "scholar" tries to dis some of the Old Testament stories and prophetic books. It's funny, Jesus quoted Isaiah, Daniel; he even believed the big fish story of Jonah. He even believed that God rained down fire and brimstone destroying Sodom and Gomorrah. Jesus believed that the Word of God was alive and had impact on real life. It wasn't merely a history book to him. It wasn't just "late-night" reading with some cool stories of teenagers clashing with giants. For Jesus, the Scriptures were something to live by and to live through. He could have taken the privilege as the Son of God to drop some wrath on Satan when he was tempted. He didn't. He showed us how to deal with the devil. He defied the devil and quoted Scripture at him. He could have told his hometown that he was the Son of God and then levitated before them. He didn't. He showed them in Scriptures where it was written about him long ago. By so doing, he showed that what God says happens, happens. Jesus is high on Scripture. You might want to read it. More importantly, you might want to use it to live by...Jesus did.

Monday, July 9, 2012

Ten Healed Lepers

A little something, something from Luke 17:11-19 "On his way to Jerusalem"...in other words, Jesus was on business. He was headed to Jerusalem for a reason, but on the way and in the way he encountered 10 men that had a need. They had leprosy, and they needed a healing. They were hopeless until they saw Jesus passing through. They yelled out asking Jesus to have mercy on them. He told them to go and show themselves to the priests. A person could only go before the priests if they had been healed of leprosy. So these guys were bright enough to know what Jesus meant. He didn't mince words. They were healed just by his word! Healing was a result of their faith as exhibited by their obedience to Jesus. Yet only one turned back to thank Jesus (and Luke tells us that he was a Samaritan, a foreigner.). This man praised God and fell at Jesus' feet. This man displayed the gratefulness that we could show more often. ---How often do we truly, outwardly show thanks to God for such a great a salvation we have in Christ Jesus? We can show that in genuine praise and worship at home or with a large group (church). Jesus did make note that only 1 of 10 came back to give thanks, and he was a foreigner. Jesus recognizes when we thank him and when we don't.---Apparently the Jews had an air of entitlement about them like he owed them something. Scriptures tell us that the wages of sin is death and all men have sinned. Since all men have sinned, we have death as our entitlement. Therefore, like the lepers we should cry out to Jesus for he is our only hope. And like the one guy, we need to go the extra mile in thanking Jesus. Do you think him everyday? You should. We ought to wake up and pinch ourselves, asking: "Wow, did God really save me?" ---Let your light shine so that others know Jesus is in you. That is one way of thanking Jesus for your salvation.

Monday, July 2, 2012

God's Way

Devo. from Luke 16:19-31 God's way of reaching us has always been by and through His Word. In the story of the Rich man and Lazarus we get a view of two distinct destinations after this life separated by a gulf: one with hope and the other with no hope. One is a place of rest, and one is a place of torment and anguish (Jesus' words). The natural reaction is to choose the place of rest, but how? Here we find that this life matters. The Rich man never found a need for God during this life and finds himself in a bad place. He becomes concerned for the family he left behind, because he knew they were just like him. ---He wants a miracle to grab their attention, or better yet someone rising from the dead to go and get them to repent. But Jesus says they must believe Moses and the Prophets (the Scriptures, God's Word) to make it. He says that if they don't (better yet, won't)believe the Scriptures, they won't be convinced even if someone were to rise from the dead! --- Note how often people want a miracle to convince someone to get right with God. Over and over, Jesus points out that the power is in the Word of God. It's a rebellious generation that seeks a miracle. Jesus fought off the temptation of Satan with Scripture. After his resurrection He revealed himself to the guys on the Road to Emmaus through Scripture when he could have just showed them his nail scarred hands or the scar from the wound in his side. The use of Scripture in revealing God's Christ and His plan is God's way. If you're holding out for a miracle, you might be waiting forever.---The resurrection of Christ is God's miracle, and it will be your miracle as well if you only believe what the Scriptures plainly testify.

Friday, June 22, 2012

Weakest Link

Twas watching a tv show the other night,and a guy had his stuff being held from him behind a locked gate which had barbed wire at the top. This dude had had a very rough day, and he really needed to get to his stuff. So what did he do? He did what anyone would do. He walked around the fence looking for a weak link. He was looking for a way under, through or over the fence. Maybe there was a dug out place that he could squeeze under. Maybe there was a tear in the fence that he could open up enough to get through. Maybe there was something to jump on or land on to get over the barbed wire. He didn't need the whole fence to come down, he just needed enough space for him to get to the other side. He was looking for a weak link. That is exactly what Satan does with us as individuals and with us as part of the church. He doesn't need you to totally reject Christ, just a little bit. He wants you to compromise your christian walk just enough to let one person acknowledge they can live like that without being a christian. What if the church were a fence keeping the devil at bay? What if your church was a strong fence with barbed wire keeping the devil out? Would you be the part of the fence where Satan crosses over? What if everyone in the church lived like you? Non-committal, living like the world, oh and a tithe is ten dollars! Are you the weakest link or does he have to walk further around the perimeter to find a way in? No one wants to be the weakest link, so don't be. Do all that you do to glorify Christ. Give God the best of your time, talent and treasure.

Thursday, June 7, 2012

No Participation Medals in Heaven

God does not give out Participation Medals. Rev.22:12 Jesus brings rewards with him. 12 “Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. Winners get rewards. Winners try. Winners live a life of discipline. Winners train and prepare. Winners live to win. They do whatever it takes. Whenever they fall, it is a learning experience. They are not down and out. They just get back up, no matter how many times they get knocked down. Winners don’t make excuses. They see miscues as part of the learning process to get better. Even when they perhaps lose because a referee or an official made a poor judgment call, they learn to not let the game come down to a bad call the next time. Winners do their best and respect other winners. They simply try to do the best they can with what they have. Much of our world is weaker today due to political correctness. We don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings. We are ruining our children at an early age. We have to give out participation ribbons or medals to the losers. Consequently, the lessons that used to be learned in healthy competitive sports has become more about what flavor Gatorade kids get after a game. It’s not about doing your best and trying to win. It’s about what snack the Team Mom made. This has spewed into Christian life as well. Listen, Jesus is coming back with rewards. And “...he will give to everyone according to what he/she has done.” You will be given a reward by the King of Kings when he returns, and it will be for doing your best. If you don’t get anything or much, it is because you stunk. You didn’t try. He won’t grade you against others. He will grade you on what you did with what you had. The “participation” ribbons and medals discourage athletes, young and old from doing their best. That is a shame! The Apostle Paul urges us to “run to win.” Jesus “endured the cross for the joy set before him.” Stop whining and making excuses and live the disciplined life to win.---I don't want to be empty-handed, and I won't be. You see, that is something we can control right now. Question: will there be anyone in heaven because of you? Get busy.

Devo Lk.14:1-6

These Pharisees and "experts" in the Law were some peculiar people. It's funny how they act like they are concerned for Jesus' life in the previous passage, and judging every move he makes in the next chapter of Luke. In this chapter they are carefully watching him on the Sabbath to see if he heals a guy. They would consider this work, and their legalism had burdened the Jewish people with non-sensical laws. Of course, Jesus healed the man, because that's what he does. After healing the man (knowing their heart) he asked them if they would pull their ox from a ditch on the Sabbath to which they gave no reply. Their silence convicted them. It convicts them even today as it echoes. They knew better. If they had a real argument, they would have come with their full arsenal. They weren't afraid to argue with Jesus. In fact to the contrary, they were an "argument waiting to happen." Bottom-line is this, and it's real simple: you have nothing to say, when you have nothing to say. ---Jesus was right. They were wrong, and they knew it. Jesus' "right-ness" took him to the cross, because that's why he came.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Devo. Luke 13:31-35

31 At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.” 32 He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ 33 In any case, I must keep going today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem! 34 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! 35 Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’”-Lk.13:31-35 Oddly, it sounds like the Pharisees are trying to protect Jesus from Herod. Jesus lets them know that Herod (that fox) can't stop him from what he has to do today, tomorrow and the next day. He lets them know that he will reach his goal on the third day. I don't think you have to be a rocket scientist to understand what "third day" Jesus is speaking about (figuratively). Jesus will attain his goal. He came for a purpose. He also tells them no prophet dies outside of Jerusalem. This was his way of identifying himself as the Prophet that was to come, and they completely missed that (rejected). Then he judges, condemns, tells the truth about them. He makes it plain that he was sent to them , and he came to them , but they were unwilling(Jn.1 "He came to his own and his own received him not."). They were unwilling to receive Jesus as King and Messiah. It is on them. Look around at the desolate house of Israel for their rejection of Messiah. Jesus was very sorrowful, because Israel missed his coming. "You will not see me until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.'" This coming has to be more than the Triumphal Entry of Lk.19:38, because at his Second Coming they will really mean it. Jesus came to save the world from sin, and yet people reject him every single day. This does make him sad, but he did his part. Jesus finished his business, and was raised on the third day. No man was able to stop the completion of his work.---The Scriptures are so full, if we would only take time to sit and read.

Friday, June 1, 2012

12 Year Anniversary of Diving In

I rarely catch this date. I usually let it go by without fanfare, but for some reason I was a little more reflective today. Today celebrates the conception of LTC. Twelve years ago today, I was officially out of the Tire business, and my official duty of planting this church began. It was then, and it is now an AGT (All God Thing)! While our meeting locations have changed a time or two, our mission has not. Mission statement: Our mission is to share that Jesus Christ is relevant today, worthy to be worshiped and shared boldly with all people. Since Living Truth has be on mission: Over a thousand people have come to faith in Christ, we have covered over 60,000 miles of the planet on mission trips going to several countries, many states, neighboring counties, all around our county, and of course locally. I’m very excited about the different opportunities God is setting before us right now. We thank all who have been a part of LTC in the early years, and to date. We’re thankful to have had the opportunity to disciple many folks that have moved away such as our military friends, and even folks that found another church to serve Christ in locally. ---We firmly believe the best is yet to come. Thanks to all of you who have been so resilient to this different kind of church. The only thing I have going for me( Aside from my Awesome God, great family and the cool people serving with me) is that God knows my heart. If you have not figured it out by now, my heart is that we reach the lost generation of people around us doing whatever it takes. ---Thank you for not being lazy, because it takes a lot of energy to do whatever it takes! And much thanks to all of you that have been generous in your giving, because ministry does cost dollars. I look forward to the extreme opportunities God sends our way even in the next twelve months. Stick to your resolve in being a disciple-making-disciple of Jesus. Oh Lord, help us to be hilarious in our giving of time, talent and treasure to YOU. Amen.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Any Day- Devo Lk.13:10-17

Jesus is preaching and teaching in the synagogue, when he realizes there is a woman there that had been crippled by an evil spirit for eighteen years. The religious Jews (lawyers, chief priests, Pharisees, etc.) thought that healing on the Sabbath day was breaking a rule. They had become so legalistic, yet there were things that they would do on the Sabbath that could be considered work. Jesus calls the woman forward and heals her much to the dismay of the local synagogue ruler. He begins to call Jesus out on it, saying that there are six other days a person could come and be healed, but the Sabbath day is not for that. Surely, the synagogue ruler is thinking what is one more day for this woman who had this condition eighteen years? However, Jesus is thinking it would be one day too many! Jesus fired back at the synagogue ruler naming things that this guy and others would do on the Sabbath day that could be deemed work. His opponents were humiliated and the people were delighted. Jesus came to lighten the load...the heavy burden of religion of the legalistic Jews. Jesus came to do work. He came to do the work that set men and women free and healed them. His work was good any day of the week.---Today's christian could take note: it is good to do good any day of the week.

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Zechariah 10:2---Household gods

"Household gods give worthless advice, fortune-tellers predict only lies, and interpreters of dreams pronounce falsehoods that give no comfort. So my people are wandering like lost sheep; they are attacked because they have no shepherd." (Zech.10:2) What are some household gods? The prophet lists a couple here in fortune-tellers and dream-interpreters. Yet, that list could have included more back then as well as today. Some others household gods or places people seek advice are as follows: psychic, astrology, and some even take fortune-cookies seriously. God was concerned that His people were wandering around like lost sheep without a shepherd. This is why Jesus came. He is the Great Shepherd. He is the One we look to for guidance. But you can't know what He thinks unless you know Him. And you can't get to know Him unless you spend time with Him. You want answers? You want the truth? Seek out Jesus in the morning, at noon, throughout the day, and when you're done end the day with Him. Following Jesus and consequently knowing Him takes time. If you're spending that kind of time with Jesus, then you will certainly interpret life.

Monday, May 28, 2012

Devo Luke 13:6-9

Jesus tells a story about a farmer and a non-fruit bearing fig tree. There are a couple of lessons to learn in the story. First of all, God expects us to bear fruit. While we are saved by grace through faith, the tell-tale evidence shows that God expects his people to bear fruit. This could be both the fruits of the Spirit, as well as the fruit from reproducing (making)disciples. In the story, we see that the tree has not bore fruit in three years, and the farmer tells the worker to cut it down. The worker asks for one more year after he has cultivated around the tree and fertilized it. God is patient in that He gives ample time for us to grow, but there is an ending point to His patience. Some work is necessary for fruit-bearing...cutting out old stuff and putting in the necessary nutrients for growth (good spiritual habits:prayer, Bible study, church involvement, etc.). Sometimes it may take longer than other times. We must be willing to do the work toward fruit-bearing. If you don't bear fruit, you're a waste. If you were a fig tree, then you would be dug up and thrown in the fire. That spot in the soil in which you existed was being wasted. These are pretty strong words from the Savior. Hello! For further study: Gal.5:22-23; John 15:1-17

Friday, May 25, 2012

Heroes of the Faith

Heroes of the Faith aren't always sawed in two. It's been a hot week up here in North Florida. A couple of our guys were relentless in their commitment to Christ by enduring the heat just for the chance to share Jesus with someone. A local church (Olivet Baptist) was heroic for hosting the Florida Baptist Dental Clinic for the seventeenth straight year. Folks from other churches and dentists were heroic in offering of their time to help poverty-stricken people get free dental treatment. Florida Baptists that give to the Maguire State Offering every year helped fund this venture as well. It was awesome to see Christians do what they do, not what the media says they do. Speaking of the media, I didn't see any of them around. I'm betting that in 17 years this church nor Florida Baptists have gotten any publicity for this show of care and concern for the community (not that they want it). Just sayin'. All of these folks were doing their part in the name of Jesus. There are different ways one can share the love of Jesus in the community. ---Do what you do. Oh yeah, at least one person came to know Christ this week, while others were challenged.

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Lk.12:13-21 Devo

The Anti-Get Rich or Die Tryin' In v.15 Jesus says that a man's life does not consist of things. He tells a parable of a rich man building a new, bigger, better barn to store all his stuff. The man decides that he has enough possessions that he can coast the rest of life. He is going to take it easy, and just enjoy his stuff the rest of his days. Jesus calls such a man a "fool." He says that man is going to die tonight. This is how it will be for the man that stores up things for himself and is not rich toward God. According to Jesus, if we're not living (that includes all phases of life including our charity)toward God, then we're missing the point. The apostle Paul says,"And he (Jesus) died for all, so that those who live (the believer) should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again." * Don't stop living for God. Our treasure should be toward His work. We are not long for this world!

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Travel-sty Ball

I just couldn't help myself. I was thinking about a little fellow that could one day be a candidate for travel ball. It pained me to think that his parents might put him into this. Travel ball is for those budding young baseball players (it is for many sports now, but I'll limit this to baseball)to join with a group that is mixed with players that have the real skills and to players good enough(and maybe not so good enough), but much needed to the team, because their mommas and daddies got the dough ($$$). These travel teams play maybe 115 games a year where a local league plays only 20. --- I speak from the experience of a guy that grew up loving the game. I wore out tennis balls, wiffle balls, steps, windows, doors, and whatever during the off-season unless I was playing a different sport. Americans have been sold a bill of goods and it is a travesty. I played with several guys that did make it to the pros. While I chose not to go (pro-haha), the 20 game schedules didn't hurt their chances. In fact, it enhanced their opportunity to play longer careers when they were actually getting paid to do so. Think about that. Junior and you are spending a bunch of money for him to play 115 game seasons, meanwhile taking time off the career he could have in the future causing wear and tear on an immature body. Finally, it is a travesty that travel ball has become a god in the way that people spend their time and their money. Many are hooked because they are chasing a dream. Others think this is the only way to do it. Listen, if your kid is good enough, then he is good enough. If he is tearing up the local league, it will make it to the papers and to the scouts. Save his arm. Save his body for when he can make the big bucks. Take your super-star phenom and just say no to travel ball! When the pros bring in a young phenom, they take it slow with him. They monitor his innings, so that he doesn't get worn-out.
Use that standard. Your kid isn't even an adult. Save his body. If you don't, who will.---I'm out.

Pressure Washer and Sanctifier

Recently I left a time of prayer that included a time of confession. As I felt cruddy and immature, God loved on me and reminded me that that was part of the sanctification process. He is cleaning me up. The view to my patio reminded me that we had just spent time pressure-washing the house not long ago. That was an all day job (that still has a little left to go)! Even though the pressure-washer cleaned most of the house (vinyl siding) there were still tough spots that we would soak with bleach. However, that still didn't get some of the even tougher stains. Some would require a ladder and a brush and some extra-stong cleaner. Not only that, you know how it is when you're cleaning and then someone walks up or you see that you missed a spot. ---I could not help to relate to what my Heavenly Father does cleaning me up (the sanctification process). Sometimes I think I'm there, and it's like He walks around the other side and points out a spot; and begins to lovingly clean me up (which can be an ugly seen). Don't despise those times for what they are. Don't let satan lie to you. Face your sin and your failure. Turn it over to Christ. Let God wash you clean, and get out of the way. It is part of this life. There will be that day when we get to be with Him, and those spots that we never got too will be painted over. Our righteousness will be white as snow for we will be painted over with the blood of the Lamb. Jesus put on our sin and clothed us in His righteousness. There will be no more need for confession or pressure-washing, but until then, don't despise those times. 1 Jn.1:9; 2 Cor.5:21

Monday, April 30, 2012

Woe #3

[Note to the reader: Occasionally I'll put one of my morning devotions on here. I'll read passages and write down the thoughts of a verse or more that jumps out. This morning it was one verse: Luke 11:44.] In this passage Jesus is really dealing some hard truth to the Jewish religious leaders. They had pretty much become legalistic, very religious, but no earthly good as far as God was concerned. They talked a good game, and they put on a great facade; but Jesus let them know the Father wasn't happy with them. In this third "Woe" Jesus told them that they were like unmarked graves that men walk over. In Jewish custom a person was considered unclean/corrupted if they came in contact with a grave (Numbers 19:16). They would have to go through rituals to become clean. They would have to stay away from the temple seven days. Therefore, the Jews marked their grave-sites very clear. Yet, Jesus calls the religious leaders "unmarked graves"just waiting for someone to walk over and become corrupted. Jesus probably couldn't have hit them with a harder insult as he spoke the word of truth to them. You see, it was all about appearance to them, not real life application of Scripture. --- It's easy to get after these Jews and even the legalistic church-goers of today. However, how many of us are just trying to look good to those around us, and not living the transformed life (christ-like) that is presented in the Scriptures? "Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly with your God" may be found in the Old Testament, but it still reflects the heart and life God expects from His children. When God speaks to you, whether it is through sermon, personal study and quiet time with God, podcast, radio-preacher, or whatever are you applying the lessons God teaches you to your daily walk? If not, you and I are no better than these hypocrites. Live a life of real change. Let the Word of God marinate into your life.

Friday, April 20, 2012

Fall of A Rock Star

Fall of a Rock Star (Lucifer) Ezekiel 28:12-19; Isaiah 14:9-19 He appears to have been a “rock star” in heaven that let it all go to his head. He was a created being that forgot he was a created being. He had a submission problem. God let him on stage with all his bling-bling (his raiment was beautiful stones-he was the shining one). Evidently he was the one leading worship of God with his awesome set of “pipes”. He was front and center covering the throne of God. This stage that God allowed him on went to his head. Somewhere along the way, he began to like the attention that his beauty drew and he quit pointing or reflecting it all to God, the Creator. He was blessed by God, and he liked it. Eventually he became dissatisfied with all that God had given him, and he wanted to be like God (which is the very argument he gave to Adam and Eve).---God will bless us. That’s what God does. However, we need to always recognize that all glory, power, honor and praise go to God. Reflect it, don’t receive it. Word: next time you’re thinking a little too highly of yourself realize you are in danger of joining Bad Company! Instead, follow the example of Christ as described in Philippians 2. Peace.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Devotion: Luke 10:38-42

Martha was distracted (in her hospitality preparations) from the worship of Jesus. It doesn't always have to be an elaborate satanic scheme to distract us from worshiping the LORD. Sometimes our busy-ness gets in the way of worship. Here Jesus was in living color, for goodness-sake fall at his feet! Pastors, teachers, leaders...all need to be certain they slow down in the midst of the business of ministry to worship Jesus. Yes, we want things to be set-up and just right, but are we worshiping?
Lk.10:38-42

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Can't GET Me

No weapon formed against me can prosper. Oh, he can get me, but he can't GET me. The enemy can and has thrown everything at me, including the kitchen sink, to get me to fall (with success at times). He has not succeeded with regularity, because I do not live a lifestyle of sin, since I seek to live for the One who died for me and rose again. But with all humility, I must confess that he has proven that he can get to me. However, he cannot GET me. What I am saying is this: he can use his prince of the air resources to work me down, but it is a waste of time. While he may trip me up, I will get back up in the strength of Christ Jesus. All of my sins are already paid for. His awesome weaponry will not prosper against me. He may get a laugh at me, but my Savior lives. The mockery that was made of satan at the cross will never end. Jesus made a public spectacle of him at the resurrection. He won't get over that. What Jesus has done on the cross will prosper. Every christian that is planted in the ground at death will arise a new glorious creature! For I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me; and the live I now live I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me. ---Ultimate thought: he can get me, but he can't GET me; because God has already GOT me. Even while I play my part out here, I am seated in the heavenlies with Christ Jesus. It's a done deal! While I pray that my stumbles are few and far between, they are certainly not a real victory for an enemy whose sentence is already written. Amen.
*Isa.54:17; 2 Cor.5:15; Gal.2:20; Col.2:15; Eph.2:6; Jn.6:35-47; 1 Jn.1:9; 1 Cor.15:44; Rev. 20:10

Friday, April 13, 2012

So How Are We Supposed to Do it?


People fuss about the guys that yell and scream on the street corners with Bibles in hand. I understand. They often look very angry. Other folks get squeamish when another talks about sharing Jesus with a stranger on an airplane. Others get antsy about using a two-question test to gauge someone's spiritual condition, followed by the sharing of Scripture. ---Meanwhile, many followers of Jesus expect their sub-par lifestyle to lead people to Christ on its own. Then, some dazed and confused on what way is not confrontational are conflicted and do nothing. ---So how do we share Jesus with others the right way? The Scripture is plain. We have to share the Gospel somehow. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?(Rom.10:14) ---People don't get saved unless someone shows them the way. Jesus is clearly the way found in Scriptures. We need to lovingly tell the people the truth. I certainly don't recommend yelling, screaming, or name-calling. Treat people as you would want to be treated. You do need to live a lifestyle in such a way that people would even consider your beliefs. People will listen to a person of integrity. People will listen if they see your love for others. But when compelled by the Holy Spirit to share Jesus with a stranger, just do it in his power. Always be ready to give witness of the hope that is in you. Take them to the Scriptures and let the Word of God speak. Stop making excuses and just do it. Your last resort...your parachute: invite them to church. They will hear the Gospel preached there. How will they know unless someone tells them? Yes, there are people in this country that have not heard.

Sensible

Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth.---Prov.17:24 (NLT) These words remind me of Jesus dealing with the religious leaders of his day who were determined not to believe him to be the Messiah. Describing their stubbornness to accept the truth he said, "You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel."---Here Jesus was doing miracle after miracle as signs of who he was, and yet they acted like that was too tough to swallow. Today, people will go to far away places in search of a "real" experience with God or a god or even multi-gods. They act as if going to a country in the Far East into a remote village with an unpronounceable name makes the experience more real. On top of that, to get the real experience they need to smoke who knows what out of a pipe that really makes them feel spiritual. They are wandering the earth in remote places when God is not hiding. Jesus was crucified in public. There were eyewitnesses. There were many people that saw Jesus after his resurrection. They have testified of that, and even died for that. The heavens declare the glory of God (Ps.19), but that is not enough for some. God made it simple. Instead of going with what we know, people will pick something obscure to use as an excuse to not believe. Yet, they'll do extra-weird things to foster another belief. ---Use the brain the Good Lord gave you! Stop straining at a gnat and swallowing a camel.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Fifteen Minutes of Fame

Often people (even christians) will get really pumped up about something, and then the newness or the faddiness (I'm always making up words, get over it) wears off. Let me be plain about something, One Love is not a one time thing. It is not a fad. I'm really pumped about the idea of multiple churches working together and leveraging resources for the Kingdom of God versus the prince of this world. Let's tell it like it is, "He don't like it." Have you ever remotely wondered why churches don't work together? It's the same reason that it's hard for you to pray fervently and study God's Word faithfully. The enemy we wrestle with is an unseen spiritual entity. ---Okay, I strayed. This will be a fad if we don't stick together. A lot of great things have begun and they didn't end with the Good Friday Celebration. ---Look, I'm a nobody, but if all the 200 volunteers were still acting like me...and I'm a nobody, then stuff is still happening. Again, this isn't bragging, I give God the glory because I promise you I would not naturally do these things. 1.)bought someone coffee behind me in line in the name of Jesus. 2.) helped someone in need with food & gas (others gave the $, I just got to go) 3.) Actually stopped my car and got out to help a person with car troubles. ---Let me reiterate, this is walking on water stuff, because I'm not that good of a person. I could have easily given good reasons to not do any of these and been fully justified. ---I'm excited, because if a nobody like me is stepping up; I can only imagine if 200+ believers in our community are doing a little something every day in the name of Jesus looks like.---Keep the fire burning! One Love. If you're not involved yet, get in on the movement at onelovefl.com. We do what we do for the fame of the LORD Jesus...the One who loved me and died for me.

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Loving and learning through garbage pick-up

It started out as a prayer-walk for the community, but then we (my wife and I) had the litter-pokers and garbage bags from the earlier planned trash pick-up that was rained out; so we thought why not? If we were going to love the city by walking 7 miles down Highway 90 picking up trash, we could walk 4 miles around Spencerfield picking up trash even though no one would know about. I must admit God loved us into doing this, because prayer-walking was just fine for me. But it was awesome to be engaged with God in this, because when I would want to pass a little piece of paper (and that temptation will come after a mile or two) something inside of me wouldn’t let me do it. You see, I was trash-picking in Jesus’ name, and (allow me to misuse grammar here) He don’t play! While it was a different kind of spiritual experience and getting closer to God, there was a lighter side to things that Teresa and I learned about people and trash.
Those lessons came from the things we found and how we found them scattered or not.
Beer cans and beer bottles ranked near the top with cigarette packages. I’m not the judge, but what does that say? Mike’s Lemonade was the top as far as specific beverage. All of these to only one trashy diet coke drinker. Burger King customers, well you were #1 when it came to thinking Spencerfield was a garbage dump. Yes, good Christian chicken eaters we did run across one cup from CFA. As a now veteran trash picker-upper there were a few things I would appreciate if people would not throw out (besides, of course everything: wait until you get home): newspaper, straws and bottles (particularly if you bust them). Newspaper gets wet and well, you really can’t pick it up after that. Straws...come on. We must have had to stop and pick up a thousand straws. Really! Broken glass...we did our best, but you can’t pick it all up. I hope no one runs barefoot out there. Then there was a couple of spots where trashy people obviously just stopped the car and emptied their junk. That should be a $500 fine for sure. ---Overall, it was a humbling experience, but it did make me think about the side of the road a little more. I think it would be good for everyone to walk a mile or two and pick up trash at least one time. And if you do, go in the Spirit for a unique experience!

Monday, April 2, 2012

Picture of Champions


In this picture you will see members of a championship team. They are about to go out and meet perfect strangers (with an accomplice not in this picture). They are part of the onelove movement (onelovefl.com). Area churches are getting together with business owners that are believers as well, and blessing the community in the name of Jesus. All of these people gave up some time and money to go on this mission in one way, shape or form. I call them winners before they even left on mission because they rejected all excuses to come and be a part of this. ---So often we give in to excuses, and consequently lose or miss out on the opportunity of the blessing we receive when we are blessing others. Maybe YOU need to hear this. The young lady on the far right had her baby sitter cancel last minute. However, she didn't cancel on her commitment. You can't tell from this picture but she is very pregnant. She didn't offer that as an excuse either. She arrived on time, smiling. Might I add that 85 degree weather and high humidity have arrived. She didn't even budge. ---Isn't it time you dropped the excuses and became a champion?

There is hope

As we read the news in the paper and on the internet, it often causes us to lose hope. People want peace and prosperity, and they misunderstand everything around them. No government and no man-made peace plan is going to work. Truly there is no hope...in these plans. In Luke 19:41-44 the Jews had rejected the original peace and prosperity plan...Jesus. 41 As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it 42 and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. 44 They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.”---However, there is hope. Jesus then turned to the Gentiles to offer salvation. The door is still open to all who will receive Christ. Peace and prosperity will come, but it will have nothing to do with the plans of men; it will be the Master's Plan. Where is your hope? Pay attention to the Passion story of Jesus this week. Read the Scriptures for understanding of End Times. It is written. In the end there is reason for great joy for those that are "in Christ Jesus."

Saturday, March 31, 2012

We're not that good of people


We're not that good of people, but Jesus absolutely is. So Teresa and I found ourselves willingly walking four miles around Spencerfield to pick up trash and scatter some prayers. ---Let me clear this up real quick. I could not help to think what people driving by might have thought. a.)What kind of trouble did these people get into to have to pick up trash? b.) Oh look at these nice people picking up trash. (Wait for the later blog when I tell of the top litter substances and what-not.) ---Even as I write this I know that it can sound like a humble-brag, but really we're not that good of people. If not for the onelove movement (see onelovefl.com) challenging followers of Jesus to love the community, we would not have been out there...no way, no how. I know there are some people that are close to that good, but honestly, that ain't me. What I'm saying is this: we're not that good, but Jesus is. When Jesus has complete control over you, you do holy and righteous things that you normal would not do. It's funny, as we began to pick up trash in the name of Jesus, we couldn't even walk by the little-bitty pieces of paper or wrapper. ---Jesus is holy and righteous and I love Him even more today than yesterday. I got to know him a little better on this walk. I realized that He loves us even more than I realized by causing the main event to be canceled today. He had his reason. ->Word: it took over 3 hours to do this four mile trip and the original trek this morning was seven miles. Thank you Jesus. ---The best thing: we're not done yet. Join the movement or get left behind.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

It Ain't Easy

It ain't easy to follow Jesus! He never said it was. In fact, he said that it is anything but easy. One after another men approached Jesus saying they were going to follow him (Lk.9:57-62). To the first man he told real quick that he didn't have a home of his own to lie down. His was not a life of comfort. To the second man he told to come now. He couldn't wait around for his family (father) to die. Perhaps he was waiting on an inheritance that he thought might help him to minister financially better (just a thought). The third man had concern for going back to his family. Jesus told him to not loo back. This could seem cold and harsh, but what it does show is the gravity of following Jesus. It is not a part-time, half-hearted gig. ---Come and follow or don't. No one is begging you. The reason so many believers are meandering today, and have a wimpy faith is they have not counted the cost. Better yet, they have not accepted the cost of true discipleship. You have to die to self. Jesus did. He lived his life with the cross in mind. Jesus headed steadfastly to the cross(Lk.9:51).

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Reflections on the Deep

It's always funny or interesting for me after I've preached a sermon or a series to see the "goodie" I got out of all that studying and listening. The recent "Launch Into the Deep" series was actually a lot of fun and a little different than most of my series in that it was based on people and their experiences with God. I had hoped that it would help guide all of us to take natural next steps in trusting God in our daily lives. At the end of it all, I suppose everyone had their own "nuggets" they took to heart. Hopefully, they were taken to heart for life transformation. The thing that I got after a few days had gone by was this: God does the big stuff...the miracle stuff, and we (whether our name is Moses, Abraham, Paul, Norman, _______your name) simply do little stuff like walking, talking, just simply obeying and serving God right where we are at. Billy Graham preached simple messages. All he did was talk. God blessed that. Missionaries learn languages to talk. They get on boats to go where God wants them. All we do is walk and talk, and God uses our obedience to move mountains. We "walk on water" when we trust Jesus. No one can do what you can do. No one else has the influence or connection with the people you do. So when God calls you to walk, simply walk. When He calls you to talk, simply talk. Let God do what only He can do and don't you worry about the rest.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Going Deeper

People like to associate going deeper with head knowledge, understanding the big words of the Bible that other people don't understand. That's bologna! Going Deeper is kind of a misnomer. Life transformation is the reality of going deeper. If you're lifestyle and love for Christ and others has not been impacted by your studying, then your studying is a waste of time.
At one time or another we have all studied shallow and we’ve studied deep, but there comes a time when we have to get out of the boat. We have to lower the net. If you are not loving Christ by serving Him by loving others, the time is now! You can know the whole Bible by heart, but if you don’t show love, well you’re just a big noise-maker (according to Paul 1Cor.13).
Ask your pastor how you may serve. There are a couple opportunities still out there.

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Start Now, Don't Wait

It's just a couple of weeks now until a new movement is initiated in Santa Rosa county, Florida...One Love. One Love is a group of churches which will be adding more and more churches to love on this city (community). It will begin with a Prayer Walk and Litter Pick-up along the main highway that connects Milton and Pace. But why wait? Why not start now? I mean, if we're going to pick up litter along the highway, why don't we pick it up as we go now...when no one is watching? And why don't we start praying now for the city, and not wait until everyone is watching? For more details and to join the movement, go to onelovefl.com.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Christianity for people that don't like Christianity

I was sad to see a site that promotes itself as "christianity for people that don't like christianity." However, I know there a lot of people feeling that way. Christians are partially the blame; NO, partial Christians are to blame. If we were living totally devoted to Christ lives some would still hate us (they hated Jesus, even to the death of the cross), but at least there would not be a discrepancy about what christianity is or is not. So, please give us a chance and don't look at the stupid signs some christians hold up. And certainly don't listen to the media who goes full bore when it comes to talking about the dumb things christians do, but are quiet as "church mice" when the church does the many more good things it does. ---Churches build hospitals, schools, teams of relief workers and all kinds of good stuff. Yeah, churches split all the time too because people are selfish and imperfect. But did you really quit on your favorite store or restaurant for bad service? Jesus Christ is coming back for the church, the bride of Christ. Don't give up on the church and christianity. You want our hospitals, schools, and you sure want our cooking during times of disaster relief. ---So help me understand again, what part of christianity do you not like? There is a movement in our city trying to change the way you think about church and christians. Coming soon to our city: onelovefl.com

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Politically Correct

It is amazing when media people pose questions to christians when they already know (or should) their response. A biblical christian should respond with a biblical answer. We know that politicians are going to say whatever they want to hear. ---Isn't if funny how we know that? The biblical christian should just say what the Bible already says. The Bible is offensive to people that don't believe it. I wish they would only learn that the Bible is there to help them. We condemn ourselves when we go against the grain of the Bible. So Larry King from the past, or Piers from the present don't need to ask the question unless they just want to start some trouble. ---Your problem is not with me or other biblical christians, it is with the Bible and the person whom it is about, Jesus Christ. We do not hate people. God does not hate people. Let's look at His record. Ummm, He sent His one and only Son to die for the sins of the world. Yeah, that's a real hate-monger. And HIs children start hospitals, go dig wells for famine relief, fight poverty, show up first at Disaster Relief...you know, bad stuff like that. We're not trying to get votes. We're living to please a Savior. So, remember, next time you ask one of us a question that the Bible has already dealt with...and your asking the question to crucify us in public opinion...remember, it will be one of us that shows up first at your tornado ravaged city. It will be one of us helping your homeless brother. It will be one of us showing Jesus love in some fashion. Yes, we are narrow-minded enough to believe Jesus' narrow-minded words, "I am the way, the truth and the life; no man comes to the Father except by me." And let me save you the trouble, we do believe in a literal Lake of Fire, because if the Bible gets that wrong, it will be a first. (So, we'll go with the odds.) The world needs to get relevant with the Bible. Oh, it's coming. Front to back is already written. Read it. ---And to my christian friend that is afraid to give answer...tell the truth and just blame it on the Bible! Disclaimer: we do not approve of the few idiot hate-mongers who live under the guise of being christians. (So, don't interview those folks as representatives of believers unless you're an idiot. All camps have some dimly lit people.)

Monday, March 5, 2012

Sales, Obedience, Jesus

There is a saying in business, "Sales heals all." The boss is happier and off your back when sales meet quotas or exceed expectations. Anyone in business knows this to be true. Business owners know home life is even better when sales are up. ---However in church it is a little different. As much as I would love to simply say prayer heals all...that's not exactly true. If you are praying a bunch, but living a disobedient lifestyle...forgetaboutit! Obedience heals all! Certainly prayer is huge in the scheme of things, but God is not a Genie that we pray to and live the way we want. Jesus said that you show you love me by your obedience. It's crazy that anyone would believe that God would bless a disobedient lifestyle. Through prayer (two-way communication to God) we learn what God wants us to do. ---Now lets magnify that. When multiple people are praying and obeying the same God, and let's say these same people live in the same location and worship together (church); some amazing things can happen. When people do the little things of walking, talking, listening and reacting in God's way for them (obedience) nothing is impossible. People will do things one could not imagine: they will give generously, serve faithfully and love on the community for Jesus in amazing ways. ---Through this kind of obedience Jesus will become famous in that city! Pray for the city and live obediently. Watch God do what God does. It never gets old. Love ya Jesus.

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Devotion: Luke 6:46-49

Here's a little something, something from hanging with Jesus on a Saturday night just for fun.
"Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord' and do not do what I say?"
Great question!
So many claim to be Christians. So many claim to be followers of Jesus.---Yet, very few live a Christ-like life. Very few seem to care about the things of Christ. *We all see the hypocritical lives. Hey, I'm not judging. I've walked that thin line plenty.
Jesus said, (paraphrased) "I will show you what one of my practitioners looks like ( a peson that actually heeds my words). "He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock."---He took it seriously. He put the work in. He did excellent work. He built to last!
"When the flood came it couldn't shake the house because it was built on a solid rock foundation."---*Jesus is that solid rock foundation. If we're truly living in Him, then we too are immovable. Can't touch this!
(para) "But those who do shoddy work don't take the time to build right, when the storm comes; they will be washed away."---You can't fake a life in Chirst. When the junk of life hits, those in Christ stand, all others collapse.
*Don't call Jesus LORD if you're not truly living for Him. IF He is not Boss of your life because you're not willing to submit, don't say HE is. IT confuses people. You and HIM know the truth and danger is coming. True followers of Christ, do what He says!---These were Jesus' words. Don't say it, if it isn't true. ---If you're living contrary to the Scriptures (ie. sinful lifestyle: you know what your sin is, you don't need my help), then you're not living for Christ; which means HE is NOT LORD. Jesus is calling us to repent of our sin, and be a For Real follower of Christ.

Monday, February 27, 2012

It wasn't a flat tire

It couldn't have been more predictable. "Be strong and courageous... Know who you are in Christ...Don't let satan rob the joy of your salvation." ---All things from the message this Sunday. Don't be upset when you get a flat tire, because there are nails in the road. Yes, I said that. So, at midnight after the Casting Crowns concert my wife and I along with Andy and Heidi are leaving the Waffle House parking lot. Note: all the other good Christians were long gone from downtown. WF is practically in the back parking lot of the Civic Center. Anyway, it's midnight...it's cold and windy...we're downtown. I had certainly been acting a fool, goofing around (I know, hard to believe). We had been blessed with back-stage passes, great seats and I had been picking at our friends that were sitting in the nose-bleed (exaggeration) section. So, we get in the car and the battery is dead. Ha---stinkin'---ha, the joke is on me. Fortunately, we had left a good tip at the WF, because our waitress was the one that had jumper cables. Amen. A friendly police officer jumped us off, and we were on our way. ---So, I start my Monday knowing I'll need a new battery. It was then that I remembered talking about getting a flat. Fortunately, I lived what I preached. I didn't get bothered a bit. The car is old enough it should have needed a new battery. No surprise. No anger. No whoa is me. It's just life. So I prepared to pay the price for the battery. When I called to check on prices, I asked the guy the make of the battery. It turns out it was the same manufacturer of my old one. Where is this going? Well, I get there to exchange my old battery and come to find out that I had actually bought this one there a while back and only had to pay half price! Nice. Amen and a thank you Lord! ---So, here's your take away. No, it wasn't a flat tire, but a dead battery on Monday morning is just the same. Have a great week! Don't let the little things sidetrack your living for Jesus. You're not from around here..."...you are seated int heavenlies." -Eph.2:6

Friday, February 24, 2012

Prayer Rumblings and Tumblings

As we approach the end of a week in prayer, it is interesting to see the things that are happening. Here's just a little something, something from those that have recognized it is a result of prayer and focus. I already shared where God had put a person on my heart in prayer and then within a couple of hours I had a "chance" encounter. I hadn't prayed for this person and years and we ran into each other at a place neither of us normally go to by "accident." Yeah. Right. A couple of folks were given the opportunity to involve the church in meeting the needs of some people in the community in the love of Christ. As we pray for neighborhoods, there were some opportunities as well. My wife was able to network with a neighbor we rarely communicate with. (We all know how hard it is to communicate in the 'hood. We all go in and shut the doors and crash in our little world.) Then the latest that spurred me on was taking note of the great lengths that God can go to or use to answer prayer. (Depends on how you look at it.) One of our members was interrupted in the middle of the night by the police by a little disturbance. Through this (I'll skip the details) opportunity she got to meet a neighbor she had not really met. ---Are you praying? Are you paying attention to what in the world is going on around you in the midst of the 40 Days of Prayer? Pray hard! ---Did I mention, that through this week I've added several names to my salvation prayer list? God will speak to you Spirit to spirit. Take heed. Write it down. Add to your prayer list. Mix it up with reading God's Word (He's also taken me on detours through Scripture. That is, He has turned me from my normal daily reading to other passages of Scripture. How do I know this? Because I'm LISTENING! Listening is part of prayer.) Pray hard.---Also, share your stories. It opens the eyes of others, and encourages them to press forward in prayer! love.

Youcef Nadarkani

You just can't keep killing Christians. Pray for Youcef Nadarkani, the Iranian pastor on death row for being a Christian, preaching the Gospel. Christians preach the Gospel for that is our command to "go and make disciples." I prayed for my brother this morning. I prayed for his life to be spared. Then I thought of Daniel and many brothers that have faced death row for standing firm. I know that many have died for the faith, and many are willing to do so. So, I prayed that my brother Youcef would be strong that the hand of the Lord would be with him through this whole process. I pictured Youcef smiling comfortably in the strength of the Lord. I signed a petition to get our government to get on the case for his release, but I must admit that my government can't do anything. Just as King Darius could not get Daniel from going to the lions' den; our government has no power over this. For Youcef to live is Christ, and to die is gain. The real Christian understands that. Either way, I pray that the Gospel will explode in Iran. I pray for the salvation of all the Arabian people. LORD God in heaven we pray for a Great Spiritual Awakening.

Luke 6

Twas directed to the first portion of Luke 6 this morning and it kind of hit me on a recent headline. The Southern Baptist Convention made news (not major media because it did not involve real controversy, of course) about considering a name change that is more relevant to today's culture and not so limited in reach. The SBC is certainly not limited in its outreach. It is internationally known for its mission work and nationally known for Disaster Relief and other good deeds. People get "up in arms" about Associations and Denominations, but the reality is all churches are associated in one way or another with other churches. And if not, they are supposed to be; they are certainly to not to be isolated. The SBC gets cracked on by the media and others, because of their early beginnings, but the good that the SBC has done over the last 100 years should have demolished any of that talk. Yet, people love to judge, and love to hate. I'm not here to defend the SBC, Willow Creek Association or any others for that matter. However, I do know that most of these are simply conventions and associations or affiliations that are meant to help churches collaborate on getting the Gospel out. If that is not their purpose, then they should not exist. I do know that the churches within these are independent. Not every church is alike. Hey, there are some great churches and there are some weird churches, unfortunately. Imperfect people belong to all. ---I guess I'm saying check your local church out before judging them. Most of them are up to good. They are more than willing to share their core values with you. They are more than willing to share with you their particular strategy to reach the world for Christ. Don't judge them by the association they are affiliated with necessarily. If they are "getting at it", teaching God's Word, growing and sending; then give them a try. ---What in the world does any of this have to do with Luke 6? Jesus had to explain to some religionists that he indeed was the Lord of the Sabbath. It is all about Jesus. Jesus is not a legalist. Don't get caught up in the laws and bylaws of man. Jesus healed a man on the Sabbath day. The Pharisees thought this to be a sin. Disciples making disciples for Jesus is more important than any name. Jesus is the name above all names. If an affiliation helps that get done in stronger fashion, amen. So what did all this have to do with Luke 6? Well, it's a stretch. Jesus told the man with the withered hand, "Stretch out your hand." And, he did and was completely healed. ---Just having some fun, loosen up!