The Three O's

     Early in our marriage, we made a trip to Washington D.C. with another couple to see all the sights.  One stop has remained in my memory to this day because it so impressed me as a relatively new Christian.     We made a trip to the National Cathedral (the second largest cathedral in the U.S. and the sixth largest in the world).  We took our time walking through this magnificent gothic style cathedral, and marveled at its beauty.  As we walked around the backside of the building, we looked up and inscribed on the exterior high up were the words "omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent".  How fitting a tribute to our Lord.  In fact, it made me think of Mary's prayer.

     In Luke 1:46-55, Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ our Lord, praised God for the gift of the Messiah.  Her prayer centered on magnifying the Lord whom she called her Savior.  She called Him holy, merciful to those who fear Him, strong and able to bring down the mighty/proud, feeding the hungry and a help to Israel.  Such a song of praise glorified God and His attributes.

     As Mary pointed out in her song of praise, God is, indeed, omnipotent.  He has all power and ability.  There is nothing that is able to over come His rule and reign.  Mary put it this way:  "He has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; He has brought down the mighty from their thrones...(vs.51b-52a)."  We know from the Apostle Paul's writings that God puts leaders into their positions and removes them just the same (Romans 13:1).  We may think it is the will of the people, but behind all that happens, our omnipotent God reigns sovereign over all the affairs of men.  While His hand is unseen, we can rest in the knowledge that we serve an all powerful king who made us, sustains us and loves us.

     God is also omniscient.  He knows all things past, present and future.  For Him, there is no time for He is a Spirit and is not bound, as we are, to an hour by hour day.  I am still astonished when I think that God knew me before the foundation of the world and had a detailed plan for my life.  In the New Living Bible, it says:  "Even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in His eyes."  This was true of Mary.  He knew the entire plan of salvation before the world was formed and His timing was perfect when He sent Jesus into the world.  This should make us all pause to consider how awesome is the God that we serve.

     Lastly, God is omnipresent.  He is everywhere at the same time.  Having been a mother of four, there were times when I sincerely wished I could have been everywhere at once.  However, because we are limited by our human body, we know it is impossible for us to be in two places at the same time.  Yet this is not true of our heavenly Father.    Knowing that God is omnipresent should give us peace for He is ever able to be with us wherever we go.   Only when God came as the Son did He experience the limitations that a physical body has in this world.  For us, it is a mystery that Jesus was fully divine and fully human at the same time.  Yet God sent Him to suffer and die as an atonement for our sins so that we might become the righteousness of Christ by trusting in Him.  

     All three of these big  "O" words are hard for us to comprehend because God is not like man.  We are made in His image, but we are not like Him as a pure spirit being.  His thoughts are not our thoughts and His ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).  With that said, consider what a miracle Christmas really is for us.  To think that the God and Creator of the universe stepped into our world as a tiny baby born in Bethlehem should make us rejoice as Mary did in her beautiful song of prayer.  Perhaps that is why when I saw those words inscribed so high upon the National Cathedral, it made me pause to reflect on the wonder of our heavenly God and Father.  Reflect on the fact that God stepped into time to redeem us and provide for us a way to have relationship with Him....the Creator of the universe!  Selah

Have a very Merry Christmas from our home to yours.

Storing up Treasures in our Heart

      Growing up on a farm in Northwestern Ohio, I have many fond memories of our Christmas celebrations.  Of course, living in the snow belt, we usually were treated to icy but beautiful white holiday scenes.  Sitting by our fireplace on cold nights, drinking hot cocoa, caroling with my youth group and enjoying family get togethers were all a part of those happy days.  In fact, I can even say that I had a ride in a one horse open sleigh thanks to my Grandfather Hess who took me and my cousin for a ride when we were very small.  We cuddled under a bear skin rug and flew down our rural county road that was covered with snow.  There are so many wonderful memories of those days gone by, but one of the most important ones was sitting down and reading the Bible together on Christmas Eve.  Hearing the story about the babe born in a manger is a memory that never grows old.  We cannot hear it enough because it is the greatest gift we could ever receive from God.

     Our favorite passage to read came from Luke 2:1-38.  One verse always stands out to me in this story of His miraculous entrance into the world.  Verse 19 tells us:  "But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart."  Just as I can recall the precious times with my family, Mary took in all the things that God had told her.  She believed the Lord when He sent the angel to her to announce this coming child.  She made herself the handmaiden of God and brought forth this child.  However, I am certain she had no idea what all of this would mean or how everything would come about; yet she trusted in God.

     One of the songs that touches my heart during this season is "Mary Did You Know?"  The song recounts the many miracles that Jesus would do during His work on earth.  Could Mary have known all that would happen? One line of the song goes: "When you kiss your little Baby you kissed the face of God?"  It gives me chills when I think of that picture in my mind.  God became man that He might fulfill all righteousness in order to provide the very sacrifice for our sins that would satisfy His holiness.  Jesus was not just Mary's baby boy.  He was also her Savior as the Word proclaims.

     As we continue in this passage of Luke, we see Mary and Joseph taking the baby to the Temple for their purification according to the Law of Moses.  When they arrived, two people met them in separate encounters.  One was Simeon who had prayed that he might live to see the Messiah. He took the child in his arms and blessed God.  Both Joseph and Mary were surprised by this (vs. 33), but Simeon went on to tell them, "Behold this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also, so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed." What a telling prophecy!  Again, Mary would remember these words as she watched Jesus go to the cross.  Then, Anna, a prophetess, came to see this child and praised God giving thanks for this blessed gift from God.

     Mary treasured all of these things in her heart and stored up these memories.  I can only imagine how both Joseph and Mary felt as they watched this tiny baby who was both fully man and fully God.  Of all the gifts or memories we can have at Christmas, this is the reason behind our celebration.  Jesus came as the Bible tells us "at just the right time" (Galatians 4:4-5) according to the timetable of God.  He came to set us free from the bondage of our sinful natures (Romans 5:6-8).  This is the greatest gift we could ever receive!

     Certainly, we all have many wonderful memories of Christmas past and are looking forward to this year's celebration.  However, my prayer is that we will take time to look with wonder as Mary did and treasure in our hearts the wonderful gift of salvation that comes from a regenerated heart made new by Christ.  This year read the Christmas story again and meditate on what the Lord has done for us!   Selah!

Who Do You Trust?

     Believe it or not, there was once a game show entitled "Who Do You Trust" hosted by the late, great Johnny Carson.  In the game, a couple would be introduced to a category and have to decide who would answer the question.  It came down to whether one member of the couple trusted the other to answer the question correctly.  With a cash award for the right answer, this was something each couple had to think about.  However, this was only a game show, so the decision was not a matter of life and death.  

     By contrast, in our present day circumstances, this is a question of some importance.  We seek out doctors who are experts in their field so we can be confident that we will receive the best care.  Likewise, we have all become more cautious before we believe stories in the news, and ask ourselves if the source is trustworthy.  Then, we are wary when it comes to trusting government, politicians, or others in leadership. As the days become more evil, we are right to seek out the truth.

 

   Jesus demonstrated wisdom that we also need to consider when it comes to putting our faith in people rather than in God.  John 2:23-25 says:  "Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs that He was doing.  But Jesus on His part did not entrust Himself to them, because He knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man, for He Himself knew what was in man."  Our Lord knew all about our sin nature and how easily we vacillate in our opinions.  He was correct in not trusting men.

     Even the prophet Jeremiah weighed in on the danger of trusting men.  In chapter 17:5, 7, 9:  "Thus says the Lord:  'Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD....Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD...'"  Then, in verse 9, we see why we should not put our trust in man:  "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?"  Just as Jesus was betrayed by one of His own disciples, so many of us may have had the experience of having someone let us down.  Even our loving spouses can disappoint us at times. So why is it that we can trust God?  All we have to do is turn to the Bible for the answers.

     Numbers 23:19 says:  "God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind.  Has He said, and will He not do it?  Or has He spoken, and will He not fulfill it?"  Unlike fallen man, the Lord is steadfast, truthful and does all according to His will.  In addition, God has promised to never leave us nor forsake us.  Hebrews 13:5 says:  "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have for He has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"  This is a promise that we can count on without concern.  I know in my own life that God brought me through Polio, carried me through the deaths of my mother, father and grandson, and has provided for us through fifty years of marriage.  In fact David witnessed to the faithfulness of God in Psalm 37:25 when he writes:  "I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread."  We serve a trustworthy God on whom we can depend to meet our needs.

     When thinking about God's trustworthiness, we only have to look at the fact that He loved the world so much that He sent His Son to atone for our sins and make a way for salvation.  Paul says it well in Romans 5:7-10:  "For one will scarcely die for a righteous person - though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die, but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.  Since, therefore, we have now been justified by His blood, much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God.  For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, now that we are reconciled shall we be saved by His life."  God's New Covenant made in the blood of Jesus Christ makes clear that He alone can be trusted.

     This old world is passing away, and daily, we see evidence of the decay of morals, government, and relationships.  Putting our trust in anything but God will lead to disappointment.  Now, is the time for each of us to take stock of where we are laying up our treasure.  Is it here on earth where moth and rust can consume it, as Jesus said (Matthew 6:19-21)?  Or are we laying up our treasure in heaven by trusting in God?  We have a choice to make.  In whom do you trust today?  God alone is our refuge and strength!  Selah!

Sound Familiar?

     One of my favorite portions of Scripture comes in the ninth chapter of John.  This is the story of the man born blind who was healed by Jesus on the Sabbath.  More than anything it reveals how the sin nature (which everyone has from birth) distorts the truth of events, and unless God changes the heart by regenerating it, people will continue in their delusion.

     From Scripture, we know that Jesus saw the man sitting and begging.  He made mud from

his saliva and put it on the man's eyes.  He told this man to wash in the pool of Siloam, and when he did, he received his sight.  The people who lived around him were surprised and tried to determine if he was really the blind beggar.  So the people brought him to the Pharisees because he was healed on the Sabbath (work was forbidden on the Sabbath), and to determine how this man was able to see.  (This encounter with the Pharisees goes from verses 13-34.) 

     Upon inquiry, the Pharisees learned from the beggar that Jesus had made mud, put it on his eyes, and when he washed in the pool, he could see again.  It was a straightforward explanation.  However, some of the religious leaders said that Jesus was certainly a sinner for not keeping the Sabbath.  Others said He must be a sinner; yet, the beggar said "He is a prophet".  Of course the Pharisees didn't believe the man so they called his parents to be certain he had been blind from birth.

     When his parents came forward and identified him as their son who had been blind from birth, they avoided being put out of the Synagogue by saying they did not know how he had been healed.  They said that he could speak for himself on this matter.  Once again, the Pharisees interrogated the man.  His answers were quick witted and stung the leaders for their unbelief as he told them that a sinner could never do such a miracle.  Indeed, the Pharisees were offended by his answers and cast him out of the Synagogue.  There are several things we can learn about unbelief from this portion of the Bible.

    First, an unbelieving heart will reject the facts in a case.  No matter how much evidence is presented to confirm the events, a person who decides its not according to their understanding will reject it.  The Pharisees couldn't believe that this man was healed initially.  Then, they rejected the fact that Jesus was sinless.  In their minds, Jesus had violated the Sabbath.

     Secondly, no one can give enough evidence to change their thinking when they choose to willfully walk in unbelief.  The parents came forward and agreed that this was their son who had been born blind.  Even when the former blind man came and described what had been done to him, the religious leaders still refused to believe that Jesus was the Christ sent from God.  Today, people jokingly say that if they had been there when the Lord walked on the earth, they would have believed it all.  However, no one can say that unless God changes their heart and certainly, the Pharisees had hearts of stone.

     Unbelief also sets up false standards which must be met.  In the mind of the Pharisees, someone should not be healed on the Sabbath because it violated the "no work" rules they had set up for that day.  Therefore, according to their narrative, the man that helped the beggar had to be a sinner.  To put it another way, Jesus could not have come from God.  In addition, the Pharisees also researched the whole matter in a biased fashion to support their subjective position on who Jesus was or was not.  They weren't looking for the truth or the light.  They loved their position, their authority and their power.

     Finally, unbelief is very self-centered.  If these leaders admitted that this was a miracle, then, they would have to acknowledge that Jesus was who He said He was.  This would upset their whole religious system and their position in the Synagogue.  We learn by reading the dialogue that they had their minds made up and nothing would change it.  Isn't this true even today?

     How often do we meet people that will not consider any other position but their own?  I don't think we have to look far.  This is the sin nature in action.  Unless God regenerates the heart and opens our eyes, we are blind to the truth in front of us.  Jesus said this on His Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 7:6:  "“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you."  This does not mean we cannot state our case for believing in Christ.  However, when we meet up with those who refuse to engage in reasoned discussion, we need to walk away and allow God to work in their hearts knowing we have shared to the best of our ability.  Pray for them that the Lord will open their eyes.

     As a believer walking in this fallen world, we cannot expect those outside of Christ to understand the truth of God.  We cannot change anyone.  Only the Lord can do that.  Therefore, let us continue to tell others the Good News of salvation in Christ and leave the results up to the Holy Spirit to convict and open their hearts.  Selah!

      

When We Need an Encouraging Word

     My father enjoyed watching many of the western shows on T.V. when I was growing up.  I don't think he ever missed an episode of "Gunsmoke" or "Maverick" among the many he watched.  He also liked to sing "Home, Home on the Range" as he prepared for work in the morning....especially the part that goes "for never was heard, a discouraging word, and the skies are not cloudy all day."  Most of us wish we lived in a world where there is more encouragement rather than discouragement on a daily basis, but if we are like most homes, we have such a resource.  It's called the Bible.

     A friend and I finished a Bible study this week which pointed to God's Word as a place of encouragement for all believers.  Not only does it lay down our moral law to live by, but it

also reveals God's character to us.  We find manifold promises, stories of faith, and the truth for how to live in a fallen world.  Perhaps one of my most favorite books of the Bible is the Psalms.  This book was made dear to me by my mother who encouraged me to read this whenever I needed a lift  or to vent my emotions.  Clearly, David, who authored many of the Psalms, released his deepest needs and greatest longings in song to God.  I find I not only love to sing the Psalms but I also love to use them as words in prayer before the Lord.

     One Psalm in particular (Psalm 119) points out to us why God's Word offers us so much encouragement.  Looking at verses 1-2, we see that we can find blessing/happiness in His Word:  "Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD!  Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with their whole heart...."  Then, taking a look at verse 6, we can see that staying in the Bible is a way to avoid shame as we walk in His commandments.  Verse 9 answers the question of how we may keep safe:  "How can a young man keep his way pure?  By guarding it according to your Word."  Further down in this Psalm (Verse 24), we discover that the Bible offers us good counsel and who doesn't need that on a daily basis?  If we need strength, we can also find that in God's Word (verse 28):  "My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your Word."  Do we need hope?  Verse 43 says:  "And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for my hope is in Your rules."  In verse 98-100, 130, we see that wisdom comes from looking into God's Word.  We all can use more of that!  Finally, in verse 105, we see that the Bible will guide us in the way we should go:  "Your Word if a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

     Of course, Psalm 119 is the longest Psalm in the book but it is filled with treasures we can mine all day long if we take the time to read and meditate on it.  Actually, this is just one small sample of what God's Word can provide for us  in terms of the encouragement we need each day.  Yet, so many fail to make use of this book that can radically change our thinking and outlook.  We would not think of neglecting to take a shower, get dressed and brush our teeth before stepping out the door to go to work.  Why?  Because we know it is important for our health to take care of our bodies, but the same is true for our soul as well.  We can better withstand the darts of Satan if we go out the door prepared with the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.

     My dad enjoyed starting his day with an upbeat song, but we can improve on that by taking time to wash in the water of God's Word before stepping out the door.  His Word is a powerful weapon for tearing down the strongholds, lies and discouraging words of this world.  Lets use the truth and be light and salt in this world!  Selah!

The Hardest Thing to Do

     Most of us can remember at least one road trip with our parents that seemed to take forever.  We often asked, "When will we get there?"  In my era, we did not have movies in the car, Kindles or electronic devices to keep us occupied either.  So when we took a long trip, my mother would devise games for us to play that kept us busy.  For example, she would ask us to count how many billboards we saw that advertised a tourist spot.  That kept us out of trouble for a while until we passed that location.  Then, we once again became persistent in asking when we would arrive.  This is not unlike Christians today who are anxiously looking for the Lord's return.

     Jesus Christ clearly told His disciples that He would return for them.  In John 14:2-3, He

said, "In my Father's house are many rooms.  If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also."  This is a promise we wait for in our confused upside down world in which we live, and it is one on which we can count.

     No one knows the hour or the time when the Lord will return but the Apostle James gives us wise advice on how to make the trip through this fallen world more productive.  His letter to the Jews that had been dispersed after the death of Stephen was meant to reassure them and give them guidance to be obedient to the Word of God.  In chapter 5:7-11, James encourages these believers to be patient during persecution and the hard times they faced.  He writes:  "Be patient, therefore brothers, until the coming of the Lord.  See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.  You also, be patient.  Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.  Do not grumble brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door.  As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.  Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast.  You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful."

      As I read this portion of Scripture, I couldn't help but think of my father who was a farmer.  He had to be patient waiting for his crops to come in each year.  No amount of worry or concern could make them grow any faster than they did on their own.  He had to trust the Lord.  He faithfully worked the soil, fertilized the ground, planted the seeds, cultivated the soil and depended on God to do the rest.  He did NOT go out each day and dig up the seeds to see how they were developing.  That is a crazy thought isn't it?  Yet, he waited and watched.  James is telling us to do the same in this passage.  Instead of being caught up with all the news each day and worrying about circumstances here, we need to be looking for the Lord's return and be ready every day for His appearing.  Like my father, we have much to keep us busy.

     We can tell others the Good News of Jesus Christ, pray for friends and family, participate regularly in our church worship, help others in need and most importantly, study God's Word.  There is much we can do to pass the time until the return of our King.  By living for Christ instead of being anxious, we will have our lamps trimmed and ready like the ten wise bridesmaids in the parable of the Bridegroom and the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13).  Then, when the Lord comes, our joy will be fulfilled.  We will not grieve that we have wasted our time in worry or grumbling.

     James reminds us that Job suffered as did the prophets of old, but they never wavered in their steadfast devotion.  In the end, we saw God's great compassion and mercy in Job's life.  All that he had lost was restored.  Our Lord Jesus Christ has said that He will come back for us.  This trip around the sun that we are on day after day may seem like an unending journey, but we know we will arrive if we are patient and prepared.  May we spend more time looking up to God and around at those we can share Christ with and less time grumbling about circumstances we may not be able to change.  Not only will it encourage us, but we will be ready when the Bridegroom calls for us to come.  Selah!

Looking into the Mirror

      When we look into the mirror each day, what do we see?  A new gray hair?  A new wrinkle where there weren't any before?  Maybe we find a blemish or two.  Most of us are quick to pick out the imperfections we find rather than in rejoicing that the Lord made us just the way we are.  So often, we only see the imperfections in our reflection based on the world's standards or what others have told us.  If our evaluation of ourselves is based on faulty information, then looking into a mirror is like going into a fun house where images are distorted and twisted.  For example, there is a woman who very much wants to look like a "Barbie doll".

     Nanette Hammond (according to a TMZ website) has spent upwards to 500K in visits to a plastic surgeon in order to make her face and body look like a "Barbie Doll".  At 47, she plans to continue having procedures done to keep her looking trim and fit.  She has even had semi-permanent make-up applied to keep the look she so admires.  While this may last for a bit, there will come a time when age will catch up with her as it does with all of us.  Besides, why does she want to imitate the appearance of a doll?  What is wrong with being yourself....the person that God made you to be?

     Allowing people's opinions and the culture around us to be the only reference point for our appearance or self-worth can lead to depression as well as disappointment.  We will never be able to measure up to what others think we should be.  Putting our identity and inner peace into the hands of other flawed human beings ("For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" Romans 3:23) is like handing a pack of matches to an arsonist.  We will ride a roller coaster of emotions and ever live to please others by performing in order to feel good about ourselves.  The good news is that we don't have to live like this.

     There is only one perfect mirror into which we need to look every day and that is the Word of God.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ frees us from the bondage of people pleasing, sin and death.  We don't have to look perfect or be perfect because we can't!  There has only been one perfect person in all the world and that is our Lord and Savior.  When our lives are committed to Him, God does all the inner working in us so that we might bear fruit for His glory.  He is our significance and our worth.  All the good deeds, all the make-up and plastic surgery in the world will not make us as beautiful as we are in Christ.  He alone makes us complete.  He alone can fill all the desires of our heart for acceptance and love.

     Psalm 139:14a-15 tells us:  "I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made....My frame was not hidden from You, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth."  God made us just the way He intended for us to appear.  He purposefully knitted us together, and in this, we should rejoice.  In addition to this, God has given to us a new heart in Christ at the moment He brought us to life in Christ.  We are a new creation....no need for surgery.  God has already done the job!  Now we can share the light and life with others who are also trapped in the  people pleasing trap of life.  We are no longer chained to the old mirror on the wall.  Instead, God has give us His Word and the more we look into it on a daily basis, the more He will refine us to look like Jesus.  In addition, there will be a day when we get a new body that will never die, get sick or decay.  We will live forever in His presence.  Let us resolve today to spend less time looking into a mirror on the wall that shows us our flaws and more time looking into His Word/mirror that tells the truth about who we are and who He is.  We will know the truth and it will set us free!  Selah!

The Answer is Not in the Box

     Dogs are very smart creatures that don't get enough credit for their intelligence.  Our Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, for example, always heads for the cool tile floor after coming in from the heat and humidity of Florida.  He gladly positions himself near our air conditioning intake vent as well to maximize his comfort.  He is a smart creature to be certain, and I only wish we, who are made in God's image, could use our intelligence as well.  Instead, we search for answers in the most complicated ways imaginable.

     When going through Focus on the Family's "The Truth Project", the tour guide, Del

Tackett, talked about the various aspects of life:   History, labor, arts and media, science, philosophy, ethics, church, God and man, community. family, state and law.  Each point on the compass is determined by our overall worldview.  Our perspective on man, God, Truth and Social Order will affect how we relate to all these other topics in life.  He rightly points out that there is no where on the compass we can go without God touching every aspect of life.  However, man often wants to find all the answers himself by looking for solutions in "the box"....that is within our world system rather than in God.  This is why I say that dogs are often smarter than we are.  They look for a simple solution.  If they are hot, they simply go lie in a cool spot.  We, on the other hand, complicate matters  thinking the more complex the solution is the smarter we are considered to be in the end.

     God has given us the answers and all we need for life and godliness is in His Word (2 Peter 1:3).  Yet, many of us (and I include myself) get caught up looking for answers in this world or as Del Tackett would say, "inside the box".  We look to government for solutions often hoping our representatives will produce some legislation that might solve a problem.  Others turn to education to improve life thinking that this will eliminate all the inequalities in our world.  Lately, there are those who feel that the philosophy of Karl Marx, or a modified version, will produce the utopia most people long for.  However, without God and a right view of man as defined in the Bible, we will never find the answers that we seek.  

     Each of us has a "god-shaped vacuum" in our lives and unless or until we allow God to fill that void, we will never have the satisfaction or answers we desire.  We want what we lost in the beginning....paradise, but as Paul David Tripp tells us in his devotional book "New Morning Mercies", "This isn't paradise.  You can't make it into paradise.  Paradise is coming, and your place was secured for you on the cross of Jesus Christ" (pg. for September 17th).  What he says is true if we are believers in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.  Our Lord will come again and establish justice restoring the Paradise that was lost when sin entered the world.  Until that time, we can try as we might to fix things in this broken world, but we will never regain paradise through our own efforts.  This does not mean that we should not apply our best efforts to help others or shine a light for Christ wherever we can.  Christ called us to be salt and light while we are here.  However, we do not have the ability to create a utopia.  Instead, Christ has called us to share the Good News of salvation and make disciples of all nations.

     Our true citizenship is not of this world.  We are called to be in the world but not of it because it is broken by sin.  Instead, ours is a rescue mission.  We are to call the lost into the light and truth found in God's Word.  Yes, while we are here, we are to make the most of our vocation, education, and life with the goal of bringing glory to God and leading others to Christ.  The results of our efforts depend upon the Lord.  Often, though, we get so engulfed in the concerns of this world and its circumstances that we lose hope and focus on what the Lord has called us to do.  This is when we need to step back and remind ourselves that the answers will not be found "in the box" of this world's perspective.  Our answers can be found in the truth of God's Word which will never pass away.  We are promised that there will be a day when we will have the perfect government, justice and peace we so desire.  Paradise will come again when Christ returns.  Until then, God has called us to stand in the armor He has given to us.  Ephesians 6:13 tells us:  "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."  By doing this, we will glorify the Lord and fulfill His purpose for our lives.  Selah!

When Our Minds Get Overwhelmed

     In the course of daily living, we all have a routine that keeps us going every day between work (whether at home or on the job) as well as family.  There is more than enough to occupy our minds, but then, when we add national news, controversies over COVID, to vaccinate or not as well as whether to mask up or stay at home, most of us become overwhelmed in our thinking.  It's easy to allow the circumstances of life to distress us.

 

   As I considered this today, two scriptures came to my mind.  The first is found in Paul's letter to Timothy (I Timothy 1:3-4):  "As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia remain at Ephesus so that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith."  To put it another way, Paul is telling Timothy to keep people from running down endless bunny trails.  Why?  It's so easy to get caught up in foolish controversies that do not produce good fruit.  Paul goes on in the same letter in verses 5-7 to say this:  "The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.  Certain persons, by swerving from these, have wandered away into vain discussion, desiring to be teachers of the law, without understanding either what they are saying or the things about which they make confident assertions."  We see this happening today not just about spiritual issues but about other areas as well.  There really is nothing new under the sun as Solomon so wisely said.  

     Endless controversies do not produce any fruit, and when we meditate on them, we feel overwhelmed.  What is the solution?  Who is right?  Who is wrong?  There are some things we may never see resolved in our lifetime, but there is a solution to avoiding an overwhelmed thought process.  We have been instructed to meditate on God's Word day and night according to Deuteronomy 6:6-9.  The benefits to doing so are elaborated on in Psalm 19: 7-11:  "The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether.  More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.  Morever, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward."  Just review all those benefits of meditating on the Word of God!  It is true - it revives the soul - it rejoices the heart - it enlightens the eye - it makes the simple wise - it endures forever and God's Word gives us great reward in the end!    Isn't this so much better than thinking of all the day's controversies which will be here today and gone tomorrow?

     What we feed our minds on a daily basis has a lot to do with our spiritual well being.  Just as with the physical body, if we fill up on fast foods constantly, our health will suffer (higher cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, obesity etc.).  However, if we eat a variety of healthy food that we make ourselves, we can reduce our incidence of illness.  Certainly this applies to our diet for the mind as well.  What we put in is what will come out when the pressures of life come at us.  Sitting and meditating on the "what ifs", the "might be's" and the "maybe's" of life will certainly create a feeling a panic, but meditating on the Word of God will produce a peace which passes all understanding no matter what happens around us.  Therefore, lets spend our time being transformed by the renewing of our minds in God's Word that we may be better equipped daily to walk in this fallen world till Jesus comes again!  Selah!

Keeping Your Eye on the Ball

     Back in my high school and college days, I loved playing sports:  baseball, tennis, and golf to name a few.  Even now, I can still hear my father remind me to "keep my eye on the ball".  Focus is important no matter what the size of the sphere is that you are trying to hit.  When we get distracted, the only sound we hear is the "whoosh" that comes from missing the target.  I had my fair share of that sound until I learned to concentrate.  The ability to focus comes with practice and time.  Soccer games with small children comes to my mind.

     When our four were growing up, we enrolled them in soccer.  As small children, we would watch as the entire group of players would surround the soccer ball and end up kicking one another rather than the ball.  If the ball moved, both teams would move with it like a group of bees around a hive.  However, as they grew older and understood the game better, they learned to maneuver and focus on the ball.  This took time and practice, but it was a joy to watch them.  In the same way, Christians need to learn how to focus on Christ.

     In Luke's Gospel, we hear our Lord say:  "Jesus replied, 'No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62).  He was responding to the request by a follower to let him go back and say good-bye to his parents.  Then, he would return and follow the Master.  Yet the Lord knew that if this fellow returned to his home, he might be drawn away from ever following Him.  Becoming a disciple means leading a life of commitment to Christ.  There are many distractions in the world both in the time that Jesus walked on Earth and now.  It is easy to get caught up following bunny trails that will never produce the fruit in our lives that we long for deep down.  When the Lord calls us, we must put aside all else and follow Him.

Our grandchildren love soccer too.

     Even after we have pledged ourselves to follow Christ, it is easy to allow the cares and concerns to life to keep us from focusing on Him.  The Apostle Paul knew about this struggle that he mentions in his letter to the Philippians (Chapter 3: 13-15a):  "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it.  But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.  I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God's heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.  All of us who are mature should embrace this point of view...."  Paul is encouraging us as believers to look up for Heaven is our home where we hold eternal citizenship in Christ.   I am reminded of the hymn "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" where the chorus goes:  "Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace."  In order to do this, however, there are two things we need to do.

     First, spend more time reading His Word than the newspaper or watching T.V. news programs.  The things we do the most have the greatest impact on our thinking.  If we want our minds to be transformed to conform to that of Christ, it is obvious that we must spend time getting to know Him.  We do that by reading, meditating and praying God's Word back to Him.  He reveals Himself to us if we seek Him through the pages of the Bible.  We neglect it to our peril.  Absorbing all the "bad news" as a daily diet is bound to cause us fear, anxiety and a sense of hopelessness because most of us can do little to change the affairs of this fallen world.  On the other hand, God is in control.  Therefore, we must build our faith and trust in Him by reading the Word for His Word is the truth!

     Secondly, we must be in prayer.  We are admonished to "pray without ceasing" (I Thessalonians 5:17).  This is key in our walk with the Lord and keeping our focus on Him.  We are encouraged to take everything to God in prayer.  When we praise Him, He lifts us up
.  As we tell Him our troubles, He gives us rest ("Come unto me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."  Matthew 11:28).  Jesus is the one who binds up the wounds of the broken hearted and carries us when we are too weak to go on.  I often think of the 23rd Psalm when I think of prayer because Jesus is our Good Shepherd who leads us beside the still waters and restores our souls.  He also walks with us through the "valley of the shadow of death".  Both in our good times and in our bad times, we have a friend in Jesus.  Once again, the key is how much time will we spend with Him as versus the troubles of this world?

     Recently, with spread of COVID, the recent developments in Afghanistan, and the rapid turn of events in our own country, there is a lot of fear and concern.  Nevertheless, this is the time to "keep our eye on the ball" or rather time to keep our focus on Jesus Christ and the goal of our high calling.  The Bible tells us plainly, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee; because he trusteth in thee..."  Isaiah 26:3.  A mind fixed on Christ is the way we win the battle for our peace of mind.  As believers, let us fix our eyes upon Jesus rather than on all that is going on around us.  Selah!

     

Our Fear of What Others Think

     Recently a television ad got my attention for its "me-centric" theme.  A lady pops into a room filled with other women who represent various aspects of her personality (it's a commercial for Zillow).  There is "negative" me, "lazy" me, "anti-social" me, "spontaneous" me and a host of others.  Of course, it is all the same person shown on camera.  In short, it's all about "me"!  She is looking for advice on a home she wants to buy.  This is a clever ad, but it also reveals where many of us get stuck in life.  Instead of looking to God for answers, we often turn to ourselves or others.  This is what one author calls the "fear of man".

     A Bible study I am doing with a friend is based on a book by Trillia Newbell entitled "Fear and Faith". Her chapter on the fear of man really spoke loud and clear to me and I think it speaks volumes to many of us who love the Lord.  We can so easily be sidetracked in our walk of faith by being overly concerned with what others think of us.  We may avoid acting in a certain way or saying certain things in an effort to please others.  That is not to say that we should be tactless in the way we behave around others, but when we allow fear of others to dominate our thinking then we are demonstrating a fear of man.

     In John's Gospel, we see this on clear display as Jesus ministered among the people.  Verses 42-43 in chapter 12 read:  "Nevertheless, many even of the authorities believed in Him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God."  Just reading that makes me sad and yet, we are in much the same boat aren't we?   We don't want people to see our sin or be disappointed in us.  As a result, it leads to people pleasing rather than pleasing God.

     Another book which I have recently read (Todd Friel, "Stressed Out: A Practical, Biblical Approach to Anxiety") offers several symptoms of the fear of man.  He lists the following:  insecurity, people pleasing, given to gossip, afraid of failure, given to shyness, self-consciousness, easily embarrassed, avoidance of others, need to be in control, a craving to be approved, reactionary and defensive, can't handle rejection well, struggle with over-sensitivity,  overly competitive with others, controlled by the opinions of others (Chapter 16, Stressed Out).  Furthermore, he goes on to say that the fear of man is a pride problem at its core.  What we really need to focus on is not so much what man thinks but how are we living in light of our relationship to God who loves us and gave His Son for our salvation?  

     Our lives need to be focussed on glorifying the Lord and serving Him.  People's opinions, as we know, change with the wind but our God is the constant in our lives.  His love never changes for us nor does He abandon us when we fail.  He is ready to forgive when we come in repentance and any reading of the Bible assures us that He is the God of all mercy.  The Bible is right when it says in Proverbs 29:25:  "The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trust in the Lord will be exalted."  

     In addition, God does not demand a perfect performance from us because Christ's perfect, sinless life was imputed to us when God regenerated our hearts.  Our worth, our significance is not in what others think but it is found in Christ alone.  What a relief!!!  We don't have to dance to someone else's tune!!!  We don't have to overachieve or exhaust ourselves trying to please everyone.  We are accepted in the Beloved as a Christian.

     Obviously, we want good relationships and want to bless others, but our motive should be to please the Lord in all we do.  Let us cast aside our pride and our fear of what others might think, and enjoy our freedom in Christ.  Living for Him will bring the richest blessings and the greatest satisfaction!  Selah!

What is Truth?

      During my years in college, it was a turbulent time in our country's history.  The Vietnam war raged on and there were demonstrations across the nation.  Young people, in my generation, were looking for answers and we often sat in the Student Union to discuss the various issues of the day.  Some of us had come to college to study and prepare for a career.  Many young men came to escape the draft through student deferment, but whatever the reason, most of us were looking for truth.  Sadly, some found their answers in radicalism, socialism and even Marxism.  Others found their truth in drugs and the sexual revolution.  However, for me, it was the beginning of a spiritual quest.  I had been raised in the church and taught about Christ but now my values and faith were being put to the test.  Just because a person belongs to a church does not mean they are a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes them a car.  We must each individually come to the truth of who Jesus Christ really is in order to call ourselves Christians.

     All these thoughts went through my head as I listened to our pastor's sermon this past Sunday.  He preached on a passage that really grabbed my attention (John 18:28-40).  In this passage, Jesus has been arrested and brought before Pontius Pilate by the Sanhedrin.  As Pilate begins his interrogation, he asks Jesus if He is a king.  Jesus made it clear that His kingdom was not of this world and then responded:  "You say that I am a king.  For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world - to bear witness to the truth.  Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.  Pilate said to Him, 'What is truth?'" (verses 37b-38).  Sounds so like a politician doesn't it?  In fact, it sounds like many people today.  Our culture says that truth is relative.  What may be true for you may not be true for me.  However, we have been given a standard of truth by which we are to live.  It is a handbook for life given to us by our Creator.  Most of us grew up with this handbook in our home.  It's called the Bible.  Unfortunately, many have neglected to read it, and it shows in the broken lives we see around us.

     When God made this world, it was perfect, good and in harmony.  He made man and woman in His image, but they chose to disobey Him.  Not only did they break fellowship with God, but they plunged our world into a fallen state.  Work would become hard and now relationships would also be affected by the sin that had entered mankind.  In the Bible, we are clearly told in Romans 3:10-11:  "...as it is written:  'None is righteous, no, not one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God."  This has been the story of the human race ever since that day in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed the voice of Truth.  Yet, the story does not end with our bondage to sin which all of us are under from the day we are born.

     John 3:16 clearly tells us that God had a plan from the beginning to offer us freedom from sin so we could know the truth.  "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."  This is what Jesus was trying to tell Pilate.  He had been born to bring the light of truth and to die for the sins for which we were guilty.  In front of this Governor stood the answer to the question....what is truth...but he chose to turn away.  Many choose to walk away even today.  They seek answers in government, as Pilate did, or they try alternative ways of living....anything to avoid God and deal with sin.  The problem is that there will never be a perfect government, justice or freedom in this fallen world.  We don't have to look to far to see that for ourselves.  As hard as man tries, we just can't fix all the broken pieces, but the Good News is that Jesus Christ is coming again.  He will bring the justice we crave.  He will bring peace and the truth that we desire.

     As He told Pilate, His kingdom is not of this world. When we put our faith in Him and repent of our sins, we become citizens of this new and better kingdom.  Furthermore, according to the Bible, He will create a new heaven and a new earth restoring what sin destroyed in this world.  Talk about improving the environment and restoring right relationships!  He will walk with us and fellowship with believers.  It's all described in the Bible.

     Now anyone reading this may say, that all of this is well and good, but this is "pie in the sky by and by".  What about our problems here?  Jesus Christ has commanded us to be light and salt in this world.  We are to tell others about Him and the truth He brings.  Of course, we should be involved in doing what we can to better things for others around us and fight for truth.  But when He rose from the dead, He conquered sin and death for those who believe in Him.  We will live eternally and the question is where will that be?  In His Kingdom or in Hell that is prepared for the devil and his angels?  Pilate chose to walk away.  He was too busy with the affairs of life to face the 'Truth" in front of him.

     Beloved, I am writing this to encourage believers to keep our eyes fixed on Him.  He will come again.  He will set all that is wrong right.  We cannot fix this broken world but He can.  For those who have never committed their lives to Christ, think about what I have written.  Jesus said:  "I am the way, and the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).  Open the Bible and read the Owner's Manual to life...in its pages there is truth and this truth will set you free!  Selah!

     

Why We Need the Word Now More Than Ever

      Recently, I have completed a wonderful book which I commend to you entitled "The Whole Armor of God" by Iain M. Duguid.  It is an excellent discussion of the armor with which the Lord has provided to believers as described in Ephesians 6:10-18.  However, one section really stood out to me in importance for us at this time.  We need the Word of God which is described by the Apostle Paul as the Sword of the Spirit.

     Certainly a sword is thought of as a weapon that can be used to defend ourselves.  The catch is that we need to know how to use the weapon if we are to be effective in combat.  Likewise, having a Bible that sits on the shelf gathering dust does us no good unless we open the pages and read it prayerfully.  Knowing how to skillfully handle God's Word is a powerful tool not only in sharing Christ with others but in also defending our belief in the Lord.  The more we know who God is and who we are in relationship to Him the more successful we will be in tearing down false arguments against our faith.

     When we think of the Olympics, we admire the athletes that compete because we know they have spent countless hours developing their skills in their chosen sport.  No one would dare compete who had not prepared physically for their event.  They are committed to doing their very best.  How about us as followers of Christ?  We say we believe, but are we willing to allow the Holy Spirit to teach us as we read God's Word?  There are many ways we can study the Word  by using a reading plan (I have personally followed a wonderful five day plan through the Bible in a year for some time now), getting into a Bible study with others, sitting under the preaching of God's Word on a regular basis to name a few.  I even found a wonderful Bible App called "Dwell" that offers the Bible to be read by various people with a beautiful music background.  Perfect for meditating on the Word as you drive down the highway.  It also allows you to hear someone read it as you read along in your Bible at the same time.  There are so many helps available if we will apply ourselves to learn how to wield the Sword of the Spirit.

     Secondly, the Word of God is a means of pruning us as we read it.  Trust me, I am no expert in tree trimming but here in Florida, if we do not prune our shrubs, trees and bushes, they will become overgrown quickly leading to problems.  In addition, pruning helps to direct the growth of the plant.  God does the pruning in our lives too.  As we read the Bible, He may make us aware of a sin that we need to confess.  Our Lord also may allow trials in our lives that drive us to seek answers in the Bible.  Honestly, pruning may not feel good at the time, but we must remember that God is doing a work in us to direct our growth that we may become more like His Son.  No one can bear good fruit unless we abide in Christ, His Word and yield to
the master skills of the Father who prunes us with care.

     Finally, Iain Duguid in his book likened the Bible to a scalpel.  I had never really thought about that before.  This past week, I had a procedure done on my face to remove a small growth.  A cancer cell had been identified so they had to go deeper to make certain they got it all.  I had stitches and some discomfort, but by far, that is much better than not having this removed.  In the same way, as we read God's Word, it goes deep into our hearts and searches out what we need to have taken away.  Hebrews 4:12-13 says:  "The Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two edged sword, piercing to the division of the soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.  And no creature is hidden from His sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."  This is a wake-up call for all of us.  

     As we read and pray over the Word of God, the Holy Spirit will work in our hearts.  He will teach us to wield it as a Sword for our defense.  The Lord will work on pruning us so we can develop the fruit of the Spirit in greater abundance, and He will surgically remove those things in our lives that hinder us in our walk with Him.  This is why we need the Bible more than any other book today.  Just look at our world around us.  There are so many who need to know the truth.  We must be willing to become a student, a workman that is worthy of his hire as the Bible says.  So, if you haven't already, dust off your Bible and dive in.  God has so much to show us, teach us and reveal to us in the pages of His Word that will never pass away.  May He give us a heart on fire for His truth!  Selah!

     

Stress and Anxiety Do Not Have to Win

      Far too many people, including myself, have stress and anxiety that knocks at our door all too often.  While I have read a number of books on the issue, I recently ran across one that was a rich blessing to me written by Todd Friel, the host of Wretched Radio and Wretched T.V.  The title is "Stressed Out:  A Practical, Biblical Approach to Anxiety".   I cannot remember where I heard about this book, but I decided to check it out and it is worth the read.

      In his 206 pages, the author lays out what anxiety is and how as a Christian we need to face and deal with this issue of worry.  However, he does not give advice nor is this a self help format but rather, it is a biblical walk through the Bible on what God says concerning anxiety.  Every chapter confronts us with what the Lord has told us about anxiety.  Section 1 deals with our issues, thinking and our God.  Then, in Section two, Todd Friel covers the areas that should relieve all our anxieties based on the Bible promises we have been given.  Finally, in Section three, we are challenged to make a goal for ourselves and a plan to defeat this enemy that destroys our trust in God.

     As I read through the book, I could see how much my mind needs to be transformed as Scripture tells us in Romans 12:2:  "2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God."  The problem is we have so much input from the world on a daily basis that we crowd out the positive, healing Word of God.  The best part is knowing that I am not alone.  Many struggle with the issues of worry, anxiety and stress in our "moving too fast" world.

     Throughout the pages, Todd Friel points to Jesus Christ as our high priest who understands and has been tempted in all the same ways we have been; yet, He did not fall into sin.  Instead. Jesus shows us the way even as He did His disciples in his last discourse with them (John 15-16).  He tried to calm them and let them know what lay ahead as He readied to face the cross.  All we need to do is read the high priestly prayer that Jesus made on our behalf in John 17 to know that He cares for us.  

     There are 12 anxiety relievers discussed in Section Two of the book which come from the Lord Jesus Christ.  By reading through these, I came to realize how I could replace my anxious thoughts with hopeful, positive thoughts based on Scripture.  It was eye opening and revealed to me where I have missed the boat in understanding the whole issue of anxiety.  As I said, this is not your ordinary self-help book.  Instead, I left reading it with a whole new outlook and plan of attack on dealing with this troublesome area in my life.  This is why I so highly recommend taking the time to read it.

     With all the pressure from jobs, children, and the world around us, we need to refocus our attention not only on God but on His Word.  There are answers to the things which trouble us when we look in the right place.  So, if you, like me, have been riding the roller coaster of anxiety, this book will open your eyes as it has mine.  Selah!

The book is available on Amazon also in Kindle format.

Be Careful How You Handle a Sword

      When it comes to kitchen skills, I am good with anything that is not sharp.  Somehow, whenever I handle a knife (whether dull or very sharp), I always manage to cut myself.  This has been true over the nearly fifty years we have been married.  I attempt to be careful but my hands just don't always cooperate.

     Growing up, I remember watching my mother peel potatoes at lightening speed, and my sister was equally gifted.  However, when it came to me, I was given the safety potato peeler and even then, I managed to cut off a finger nail too.  I believe the problem is that I get into a hurry and that is never a good thing when handling sharp objects.  This applies to the Sword of the Spirit as well which is the Word of God.

     Scripture tells us in 2 Timothy 2:15:  "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."  Paul admonished young Timothy to be careful how he handled the Word of God in his ministry.  Like a sword in the hand of a warrior, the Word is meant to be a weapon against the arguments of this world system.  In fact, we are told of its value in the

chapter that follows (2 Timothy 3:16): "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness...."  

     In addition, the Bible is a valuable defense against all the flaming darts of the enemy.  What did Satan do when he tempted Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11)?  He came at Him with temptations, but Jesus wisely answered with Scripture speaking the truth to the lies of His enemy.  Eventually Satan left Him, and he will leave us alone too if we learn to handle the Word of God accurately.  Yet, I wonder....how many of us can accurately and effectively wield the Sword of the Spirit?  It is the weapon given us by God to defend our faith and tear down strongholds (Ephesians 6:17).  No good soldier goes into battle unarmed, so why are many Christians today struggling to fight off temptation and ideas that are contrary to the Word of God?  Could it be that we are not honing our weapon enough?  By that, I mean we may not be reading God's Word on a regular, daily basis.

     Soldiers train long and hard before they go into the field of combat.  It's important they know how to handle their weapons and wear their protective gear.  In the same way, we need to study the Bible so that when the day comes that we are tempted, we are able to stand firm on the Word.  Hebrews 4:12 tells us just how powerful the Sword of the Spirit is:  "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."  As we read the Bible, it shows us not only our sins, but it shows us God's character and love for us.  In its pages, we come to know the truth that will set us free from the lies of this world system.  

     As for me and kitchen knives, I have learned to slow down and watch more carefully what I am doing.  I am not perfect, but I am improving.  I am also working on handling God's Word with care as well.  As a Christian believer, I want to be able to handle the Sword of the Spirit in a manner that will bring glory to God.  Therefore, I read it daily and aim to study it for in it, lies the truth.  What about you?  Don't neglect this powerful weapon of God's truth which is your defense against the enemy of your soul.  Selah!

How About Something Positive?

     In our modern digital age where we can get the news 24/7 on our cell phones, laptops, tablets and desk tops, I find that I have to limit myself in looking at it.  There is so much crime, evil, and negative reports on the air around the clock that it would cause anyone to feel blue.  When I was growing up, we had local news and some national news but not to the extent that we have today. Unfortunately, today, we are overwhelmed by some of the stories we hear; so it is far better to reduce time on T.V. and increase time in God's Word.  After all, we need "Good News" each day, and along those lines, a dear friend and I began a Bible study some months ago on Romans 8.  Now there is something to cheer about!

     If we find ourselves dealing with any of the following, we need a good dose of Romans 8:  anxiety, depression, lack of assurance, condemnation, or fear (to name a few).  Of course the entire book of Romans is a power house of truth which makes clear our need for Christ.  When we started on chapter 8, it was supposedly a six-week study but we found that we needed more time to process and work our way through this.   The verses that really pack a positive punch are found in Romans 8:31-39:  "31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33 Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.[b] 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written,

“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;

    we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Please read these words over and over again.  In fact, read the entire chapters that come before these words.  What God has done for us is amazing beyond comprehension!  The best part is that nothing can ever separate us from His love.  No power, no political system, no person....absolutely nothing in this world can tear us out of His arms.  Now isn't that better than watching the news or reading it?  This news is what our souls need, my friends!

     Interestingly enough, after our Bible study today, I began to read Todd Friel's book entitled:  "Stressed Out:  A Practical, Biblical Approach to Anxiety" and part way through the book, he emphasized Romans 8:31-39.  Coincidence?  No, God's providence!  Defeating all the negative thinking in our lives requires us to be students of God's Word rather than listening to hours of the world's view on all things.  We know this is a fallen world so why spend lots of time hearing about all the negative news of the day?  Can we do anything about it?  Can we change things by getting upset?  No...but God can do miraculous things when we pray, read His Word and meditate on it.  He works in us and transforms our thinking.  If we are to be salt and light in this world, we must first immerse ourselves in the Good News of Jesus Christ.

     Instead of parking in front of the T.V. and allowing the enemy to shoot darts at my heart all evening through the bad news I listen to, I would much rather follow the Apostle Paul's advice found in Philippians 4:8:  "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."  I commend to all that spending time reading and re-reading Romans 8:31-39  will do your heart good!  This will bring glory to God!  Selah!

With Awe and Reverence

     Ten years ago, my husband and I took an anniversary trip to Europe.  We flew first to Scotland and then drove into England to see the sights.  I had always dreamed of going there one day as I loved English Literature studies both in high school and college.  The old castles, the magnificent cathedrals, and the rich history made this a trip never to be forgotten, but the greatest highlight was a tour of Buckingham Palace.  When the queen is away, the palace is opened to the public for tours.  We happened to be fortunate enough to come at such a time.  

     To say the palace was beautiful is an understatement.  Pictures of previous royals hung on the walls as well as other breathtaking decorations.  I imagined what it would be like to meet the queen herself.  We certainly were not dressed to meet her that day, and it made me think about the kind of clothes that would be appropriate.  There is a certain protocol for such an event in order to show your respect. Most of us would wear our nicest clothing (no shorts and T-shirts here) and be on our best behavior.  After all, we are meeting someone very special!

     As I reflected on this memory, it made me wonder why we do not treat church in much the same way?  Each week, we have the privilege of entering the Lord's sanctuary to gather with other saints to worship our King.  Do we come with an attitude of reverence?  Praise?  Giving our full attention to the Lord?  I was taught as a child that Sunday meant we wore our very best to church to honor God. Then, when we entered the sanctuary, we were to think on His Word in an attitude of reverence.  That did not mean we could not greet others, but our first and foremost duty was to prepare our hearts to hear Him.  Visiting with others was reserved for after the service.  I realize that times have changed and people, in general, take things much more casually today.  In fact, some folks look like they have just walked off the golf course.  If shorts are all you have to wear, then don't let that keep you from coming to God's House, but let us
put things into perspective.

     Scripture tells us how to approach the Lord.  Psalm 29:1-2 says:  "1 Ascribe to the LORD, you heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 2 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness."  Then in the letter to the Romans, Paul tells us to offer ourselves as a living sacrifice:  "1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will" (Romans 12:1-2).  In these two sets of verses, we learn that we must give God the glory as we enter His House of worship.  We demonstrate our respect and love for Him by not conforming to the way of the world but by offering up our lives to Him in service and praise.  Sometimes, I think we have lost the sense of awe before the Lord.  We come there to make Him the center of our attention and to encourage one another.

     If we were to meet Queen Elizabeth, we would wear our best clothes, show respect for her position, and be on our best behavior.  Yet, we often forget this when we come before the King of Kings on a Sunday.  Entering a House of Worship is a blessing and an opportunity to commune with Him and one another.  We must not take it lightly as though it were just another activity.  He wants us to worship Him in spirit and in truth.  It all starts in our heart through prayer, Bible study and a sincere desire to grow in His grace.  Let us give Him our best in worship as we sing, pray and study His Word.  Selah! 

Learning to Listen

      When I was growing up, I was the talker in the family.  I had a Great Aunt who thought I would certainly become a missionary as I loved talking about God.  Other family members thought I would follow in my Grandfather's footsteps and become an attorney.  Neither prediction came to pass, but my love of public speaking led to a major in communications in college.  Oral interpretation of literature, theater, public speaking, radio, and debate became my focus as I prepared to become a teacher.  Yet, for all my preparation, the most important part of communicating with others is being a good listener as well.  So, when I had the chance to babysit my granddaughter the other day, I put this into practice.

     Typically, when her siblings are around (she is the youngest), she tends to be quiet, but when I asked her about her activities, she opened up in the most delightful way.  We looked at shells in her room that she had collected at the beach.  We talked over lunch about family and what it was like when I was growing up.  When I told her I never liked having my picture taken as a little girl, she responded that I must be shy like she is.  What little nuggets of sweet information I learned that day all because I asked her questions.  

     Unfortunately, we do not always realize that communicating with one another is a two way street.  We need to develop the ability to listen to others.  Throughout Scripture, we are admonished to watch our words and know when to speak and when to be silent.  Ephesians 4:29 tells us:  "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."  Then in Matthew 12:36-37, we read:  "I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”  In both of these verses, we are forewarned to be cautious in how and when we speak.  The tongue can be powerful in building up or tearing down.  Someone wisely said "That's why we have one mouth and two ears so we can listen more than speak."  The Apostle James would agree with that statement.  He writes:  "19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry" (James 1:19).

     When we take time to listen to others, we have a chance to really get to know them.  We show respect and value for another when we allow them to share.  I think we have all been in a situation where someone in a group dominates the conversation to the exclusion of others. After a while, it becomes monotonous.  Proverbs 17:28 clearly tells us:  "Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent."  Solomon never worried about being "politically correct" but he drove home the point that there is a time and place to be silent.

     Our Lord Jesus Christ set a perfect example for us in communicating with others.  He would ask questions to draw people out.  He had time for children, the sick and those whom society had rejected.  A great example of a productive conversation occurs in the story of the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-42).  Not only did the Lord engage this woman in conversation, but He also showed Himself to be the Messiah.  He allowed her to speak, ask questions and thereby, opened the lines of communication.  She felt valued and known for the first time.  The conversation opened her heart to the truth of God's love.  Do we now see the value of listening to others? 

     As believers, we are to bear witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ by being salt and light.  Our time of conversing with others is important because it gives us and opportunity to share the Gospel after listening to their story.  I know I learned a lot about our precious granddaughter  as we spent time together by simply asking questions and allowing her a chance to talk.  May God help us learn to balance our time with others even as Jesus did so that we may have an opportunity to tell them the Good News of salvation and affirm their value in God's eyes through listening.  Selah!

Sealed by the King

     When we value something, we mark it in some fashion to let others know it belongs to us.  My mother did this when I got ready to go off to college.  She obtained labels with my name imprinted on it and began to sew them into my clothing, so if anything was lost, whoever found it would know who the owner was and return it.  Likewise, we tend to mark valuables like a purse, a ring or even engrave our iPad so people will know it belongs to us.  In fact, it doesn't stop with things like clothing.  Today we even chip our cats and dogs in case they get lost.  We certainly did that with our dog as he is important to us.  While we do this to protect our valuables, we often forget that we have also been marked by God if we are believers in Jesus Christ.

 
   In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul writes these words (2 Cor. 1:21-22):  " 21And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, 22and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee."  When we confess our faith in Jesus Christ, God sets a seal in our heart, and we are marked as His sheep.  Jesus, Himself, affirmed that our new life could not be forfeited or terminated either.  In John 5:24, we read:  "Whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life."  This is good news!!!  Yes, we may stray, but we have a Good Shepherd who will seek us out.  We may face difficulties, or have our ups and downs but our future is secure in Christ.  When we sin (and we all do that at one time or another), we have an advocate in Jesus Christ our Savior.  I John 1:9 tells us that "If we confess our sins, He if faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  It is as simple as that.

     Other verses written by the Apostle Paul also assure us of the seal of God's Spirit in the soul of those who belong to Him.  Look at Ephesians 1:13-14:  "In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."  Then later in the same letter, Paul writes in Ephesians 4:30:  "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption."  Isn't it good to know that God has given us a seal in our heart to prove that we belong to Him?

     When doubts assail us, troubles come, or loved ones die, we have an assurance from God that we belong to Him.  He has promised to never leave us or forsake us.  While Satan may try his hardest to fill us with anxiety, we have only to turn to the Father and call upon His name.  He has authority to tell him "Hands off!  This is my child sealed by the Holy Spirit!"  Let us rejoice in this good news for Paul reminds us in Philippians 1:6:  "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."  It is God who has sealed us and is working in and through us as we walk on this earth.  Therefore, we need to rejoice in Him not only today but every day.  Selah!