THREE KINDS OF LOVE

“And now these three remain:  faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love.”
(I Corinthians 13:13)

February is the month of love with Valentine’s Day on February 14^th.  So, let’s talk about love this month.

As you probably know, there are three Greek words for love which describe three kinds of love.  The first kind of love is the “if” kind of love. “If you are beautiful, I will love you.”  “If you are successful, I will love you.” “If you are good, I will love you.” “If you measure up, I will love you.”  “If you satisfy my desires, I will love you.”  This kind of love comes with strings attached.  It’s a conditional love.  It’s a love offered in exchange for something the lover desires.  The bottom line:  it’s a very selfish love.

The second kind of love is the “because” kind of love.  In this kind of love, a person is loved because of something they are or something they do.  “I love you because you are lovely.”  “I love you because you are good to me.”  “I love you because you make me feel secure.”  “I love you because you give me nice gifts.”  This kind of love is a little better than the “if” kind of love; but what if someone else comes along who is wealthier, nicer, or prettier?  It often leads to insecurity, fear, and jealousy. 

The third kind of love is the “in spite of” kind of love.  It’s different than the first two because there are no strings attached and it expects nothing in return.  It’s not based on attractive or loveable qualities in the other person.  This kind of love does not have to be earned or deserved.  A person is loved and accepted just as he is in spite of his past, his faults, or his bad habits.  This kind of love overcomes fear, insecurity, and rejection.  This love is unselfish, unconditional, and sacrificial.  We refer to this as “agape” love.

Guess which kind of love God has for you.  I’ll give you a couple hints.  God loved you even when you were still a sinner.  And God loved you so much He gave His Son, Jesus, to die for you. 

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for loving me in spite of my sinfulness.
Thank you for sacrificing your Son on my behalf.
May your unconditional love and acceptance reign in my heart!
And may others experience Your love through me!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

GRIN & BEAR IT

“Be completely humble and gentle;
be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
(Ephesians 4:2)

Forbearance.  It’s not a word we use in everyday conversation.  But if you have a loan and are having trouble making payments, it’s a great word.  In the banking world, “forbearance” is an agreement between the lender and the borrower to suspend or reduce payments for a period of time.  If you have a student loan the payments may be suspended for a period of time while still in school, but the loan continues to accrue interest which is later capitalized into the loan.  If you have a home loan, “forbearance” means that the lender suspends judgment (foreclosure) on the loan for a period of time to give the borrower an opportunity to catch up on his payments.

That’s similar to the meaning of “forbearance” in the Christian’s life.  It basically means that we “suspend judgment” on others.  It suggests an attitude of patience and tolerance toward people who may rub us the wrong way.  Sometimes it’s just best to grin and bear it.  Forbearance means…

• I grin & bear other people’s idiosyncrasies, foibles, and quirks.
• I grin & bear it when a fellow Christian slights me.
• I grin & bear put-downs, insults, and offenses by my brothers.
• I refuse to retaliate, lose my temper, or hold grudges.
• I am quick to forgive those who wrong me.

In these tough economic days many of us would love a little “forbearance” on our loans. Right?  So let’s practice forbearance in our personal relationships, as well.  It’s the last of four attitudes that are essential to unity in the church – humility, gentleness, patience, and forbearance.  May all four reign in our hearts and lives as children of God!

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the unity we have in Jesus Christ.
May that unity be evident in the family of God!
May You continue to nurture in my heart the attitudes of
humility, patience, gentleness, and forbearance.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

WAITING

“Be completely humble and gentle;
be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
(Ephesians 4:2)

Have you ever noticed how much time we spend waiting? 

• We wait in line at the grocery store.  We wait in line at the department store.
• We wait in the security line at the airport.  We wait to board the airplane. 
• We wait in line to buy tickets for the movie; then we wait for the movie to start. 
• We wait at red lights.  We wait in rush-hour traffic. 
• We wait for the waitress to take our order; we wait for our food; and we wait for the bill. 
• We wait at the doctor’s office.  We wait in the Emergency Room.  We wait at the DMV.
• We wait on the phone to talk to a live person.
• We wait for our computer to warm-up.  We wait for the printer to warm-up.
• We wait for Christmas.  We wait for New Year.  We wait for our birthday!

Some experts have suggested we spend five years of our life just waiting.  I never would have guessed that Americans were so patient.

There are actually two words in the New Testament for patience.  One relates to the patience we need with the circumstances of life – like all the waiting mentioned above.  But the other word emphasizes patience with people.  Perhaps one reason we do so much waiting in life is because God is teaching us to be patient.  I believe He wants us to translate our “waiting” into “patience” with people, too!  Here’s what that kind of patience looks like…

• Patience bears the foolishness of men without irritation.
• Patience bears insult and injury without bitterness or complaint.
• Patience refuses to retaliate or seek revenge when wronged.
• Patience is slow to anger.
• Patience doesn’t hold grudges.

Do you have a hard time being patient with other people?  It may help to remember how patient God is with you.

 Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your patience!
You are a compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
I want to be more like You!  Help me, O Lord!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

COOKIES FOR TWO

“Be completely humble and gentle;
be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
(Ephesians 4:2) 

Gentleness – Now, there’s a character quality that sure won’t win football games or basketball games.  Right?  And it won’t get me far in the office, either.  Or in life, for that matter.  We live in a dog-eat-dog world:  survival of the strongest.  When I mention the word, “gentleness,” you probably think of Bambi meeting Thumper.  Or Benji taking care of some lost kittens.  Right?

But the truth of the matter is just the opposite.  There’s a certain “power” in gentleness that catches people’s attention.  There’s a certain “strength” in gentleness that is actually winsome and attractive.

In fact, the Greek word for “gentleness” is really the word for “meekness.”  And meekness is anything but weakness.  The Greeks used the word to describe great strength under control – i.e. a wild stallion that had been broken, or a potentially deadly medicine that was used for healing disease.  So meekness is not weakness – it is controlled strength! 

Let’s get practical.  How does gentleness manifest itself in real life?

• Gentleness respects and honors people rather than showing disrespect.   (I Peter 3:15)
• Gentleness is humble rather than proud or arrogant.   (Matthew 11:29)
• Gentleness is calm rather than explosive.   (Proverbs 29:11)
• Gentleness speaks tenderly rather than harshly.   (Proverbs 15:1)
• Gentleness forgives rather than retaliates when wronged.   (Colossians 3:12-13)
• Gentleness seeks to serve rather than control others.   (Mark 10:42-44)

After a tiring flight, a woman had a long layover in a London airport before the next leg of her journey.  After buying a cup of coffee, a package of cookies, and the morning newspaper, she sat down at a table to enjoy all three.  She soon heard a rustling noise.  Looking over her paper, she saw a young man helping himself to the cookies.  She didn’t want to make a scene, but neither did she want to lose all her cookies.  So, she leaned over and took another cookie.  More rustling from the other side indicated the man had taken another cookie, too.  Back and forth it went until there was just one cookie left.  Calmly, the gentleman broke the last cookie in two and pushed half toward the woman.  He ate his half and walked away.  The woman was still fuming when her flight was called.  When she got on the plane she opened her purse where, to her surprise, she found her bag of cookies.  She had been eating his.

Of the two, which responded with gentleness?

Heavenly Father,
May gentleness reign in my life?
May my life be lived in such a way that it leads
other people to the Perfect Gentleman – Jesus Christ.
In His name, Amen.

JUST ACT MEDIUM

“Be completely humble and gentle;
be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
(Ephesians 4:2)

Humility, patience, gentleness, and forbearance.  Four essential attitudes to building and maintaining unity in the church – and harmony in the home, as well.  So important, we’ll discuss one attitude per week this month.  Let’s start with the toughest – humility.

Chuck Swindoll tells a great little story that illustrates humility.

The children worked long and hard on their little cardboard shack.  It was a special spot – a clubhouse – where they could meet together, play games, laugh, and have fun.  And because clubhouses are supposed to have rules, they came up with three…

• Nobody act big
• Nobody act small
• Everybody act medium

I like it!  That’s humility.  Don’t think too highly of yourself.  Regardless of your position, your degrees, your honors, your long list of achievements, just be real.  And don’t think too lowly of yourself.  You are God’s workmanship.  So, just act medium. 

So, what is humility?  Since it’s better described than defined, here are a few characteristics of humility…

• Humility considers others better than itself  (Philippians 2:3)
• Humility yields its own rights to meet the needs of others.
• Humility surrenders its own agenda for the good of others.
• Humility doesn’t demand that things go “my way.”
• Humility considers no task beneath its dignity.
• Humility is able and willing to admit when it makes a mistake. It even says, “I’m sorry.”
• Humility doesn’t care who gets the credit.
• Humility is not consumed with self – it’s consumed with other people!

Now, here’s the catchy part.  Humility is very elusive.  Just when you think you’ve got it, you start becoming proud of it, and it quickly slips away.  Be humble.  Focus on others.  Just act medium! 

Heavenly Father,
Thank you that Jesus humbled himself.
He gave up his heavenly throne, became a man, and died on a cross.
I want to be more like Jesus every day.
May his humility be reflected in my life!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

IN FAVOR OF NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do,
and your plans will succeed.”
(Proverbs 16:3)

New Year’s Resolutions?  It seems like nobody makes them anymore. We can’t seem to keep them for a month or even a week.  So we just give up!  Let me share a word in favor of New Year’s Resolutions.

What I like about the New Year is that it gives me a fresh start.  Last year is behind me & a new year is ahead of me.  So, what will I make of it?  Will I go on as usual?  Will I settle for the status quo another year?  Or will I make some changes?  Will this be the year I decide to do something new & different, perhaps even adventurous? 

So instead of resolutions, think of them as annual goals.  And remember, if you aim at nothing that’s exactly what you’ll hit – nothing.  So aim at something.  Even if you don’t hit a bulls-eye, you’ll probably get a lot closer than if you never tried.  So, how about it?  Go ahead and set some goals for 2010.  In fact, here are a few ideas to get you started…

• Financial Goals – How much do I want to save this year?  How much can I reduce my debt?  What are my goals for giving in 2010?
• Family Goals – How can I keep romancing my spouse?  How can I put a little spark back into my marriage?  How am I going to build some family memories with my children (or grandchildren) this year?  How can I help them grow closer to the Lord?
• Fun Goals – What new hobbies could I try this year?  Where do I want to go on vacation – just for fun?  What adventurous activities can we do as a family?
• Faith Goals – How am I going to grow spiritually this year?  What are my goals for Bible reading and prayer in 2010?  What ministries do I want go be involved in?  Should I try a new ministry this year?

Go ahead.  I dare you!  No, I double-dare you!!!  Set some personal goals for 2010.

 Heavenly Father,
Thank-you for the fresh starts you give us every day.
Your mercies are new & fresh every morning.
As I start a new year this week, I want to live it for you!
May your goals be my goals and may my dreams be your dreams!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

THE MYSTERY & THE MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid.
I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people.
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born;
He is Christ the Lord.”
(Luke 2:10-11)

The mystery of Christmas is the incarnation of Jesus Christ – God became a man.  Max Lucado paints the picture well…

The omnipotent, in one instant, made himself breakable.  He who was larger than the universe became an embryo.  And he who sustains the world with a word chose to be dependent upon the nourishment of a young girl. 

He looks like anything but a king!  His face is prunish and red.  His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby.  And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.

Majesty in the midst of the mundane.  Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat.  Divinity entering the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter. 

This baby had overlooked the universe.  These rags keeping him warm were the robes of eternity.  His golden throne room had been abandoned in favor of a dirty sheep pen.  And worshiping angels had been replaced with kind but bewildered shepherds.

But the miracle of Christmas is the salvation of mankind – Jesus abandoned his throne in heaven for a lowly manger.  He was born in a manger to die on a cross.  And He died on a cross for our salvation.  As the angel said to the shepherds, “a Savior has been born.”  Jesus came to save mankind from their sin.  He came to restore man’s relationship with God.  He came to offer us the best Christmas gift of all; the gift of eternal life. 

I encourage you to take some time during your Christmas celebration this year to pause and behold the wonder of Christmas.  Take a few minutes to reflect on both the mystery and the miracle of Christmas.

 Heavenly Father,
Thank you for giving us the gift of your Son, Jesus!
Thank you for the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
And thank you for the privilege of being one of your children.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

HOT OR COLD?

“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot,
I wish you were either one of the other!
So because you are lukewarm – I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
(Revelation 3:15-16)

On a hot summer day in Phoenix, sometimes all you want is a nice cold refreshing drink of water.  So you go over to the faucet and turn on the “cold” water.  What do you get?  Lukewarm water!  In Phoenix, there is no such thing as “cold” water out of the faucet.  You either get warm or hot.  So what do you do when you get a mouthful of warm water after expecting cold water.  You spit it out and walk over to the refrigerator for some ice to cool it off. 

On a cold day you may long for a cup of hot coffee or hot chocolate.  How do you respond when all you get is lukewarm coffee or lukewarm chocolate?  Again, you want to spit it out and head over to the microwave to zap it for a few seconds.

That’s how Jesus feels about lukewarm Christians.  According to Revelation 3, lukewarm Christians are nauseating to the Lord, and He just wants to spit them out of his mouth.  God would rather that you were either cold or hot.

A cold person has no vital signs of spiritual life, no passion, no vitality, no spiritual interest at all.  But at least a cold individual doesn’t think they’re on track with God.

A hot person is “on fire” for the Lord.  They have a deep love for Jesus Christ, a burden for the lost, and a passion for the things of God. 

But a lukewarm person has let the fire fade.  They may think they’re on track, but three words best sum up the lukewarm Christian – compromise, comfortable, and complacent.

I’m afraid there are a lot of lukewarm Christians in America today. In fact, of the seven churches in Revelation 2-3, the Laodicean church may be the one that sums up the American church best.  We have gotten very comfortable with our Christianity.  We have compromised with the world.  And we have become complacent about our faith and indifferent about reaching the lost for Jesus Christ.

Which are you?  Are you cold?  Are you lukewarm?  Or are you hot?  I trust & pray that you are “on fire” for Jesus Christ.

 Heavenly Father,
I don’t want to be a lukewarm Christian.
Forgive me for where I have become complacent in my faith.
Restore in me a passion for Jesus Christ
And give me a burden for the lost.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAD OR ALIVE?

“I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive,
but you are dead.  Wake up!”
(Revelation 3:1-2) 

What’s the difference between a dead person and a living person?  What’s the difference between a dying church and a living church?  And how do you distinguish between an individual who is spiritually dead and one who is spiritually alive?  Obviously, the difference in all three cases is life!  One has life flowing through his / her body; the other doesn’t.  But do they look much different?

In Revelation 3, Jesus draws a sharp contrast between two churches – the church in Sardis and the church in Philadelphia.  To the church in Sardis Jesus has no words of commendation; only condemnation.  But to the church in Philadelphia, just the opposite is true.  What’s the difference?  One is dead; the other is alive!  But what is most interesting is that by all outward appearances the two churches didn’t look much different.

The church is Sardis had a good reputation.  They were wealthy – they had nice facilities and probably even supplied their pastor with the latest model chariot every year.  They had top-notch programs – a flashy youth group and the best worship around.  In fact, they may have even hosted an annual “Sardis Church Growth Conference.” By all outward appearances you would have thought they were right on track.  But Jesus looked much deeper.  And when he did, he found a church that was dying.  They were going through all the motions, but there was no life!  Jesus could barely detect any spiritual vital signs.

When you go to a doctor he always checks your vital signs to determine if you’re healthy – your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, reflexes, etc.  Likewise, Doctor Jesus doesn’t just look at externals; he checks the spiritual vital signs of churches and individuals.  In a church, those spiritual vital signs would include our passion for God, our love for one another, and our passion for the lost.  In an individual, He would check much the same.

How are your spiritual vital signs?  How’s your spiritual blood pressure – do you have a passion for God?  How’s your spiritual pulse – do you truly love others as Jesus loved you?  How’s your spiritual temperature – do you have a passion for the lost?

Are you spiritually dead or alive?

 Heavenly Father,
I confess that sometimes I find myself going just through the motions.
I pray that You might restore my passion for Jesus.
Help me love others as You have loved me.
And give me a burden for the lost around me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

BEWARE OF TOLERANCE

“I have this against you:
You tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess.
By her teaching she misleads my servants…”
(Revelation 2:19)

We live in a world of political correctness.  And in the name of political correctness we are taught to be tolerant of everyone.  There’s one problem, though.  Our culture has redefined the word, tolerance.  In the past, Webster defined tolerance as “bearing with or putting up with someone or something not especially liked.”  And in that sense, the Bible encourages us to “bear with one another” in love.

But tolerance means something completely different today.  Most of the time you hear the tolerance doctrine taught in the world today, whether in schools or in the media, it means that we are to accept all values, beliefs, lifestyles and truth-claims as equal.  Spanish philosopher, Fernando Savitir put it this way, “Tolerance…means that all opinions are equal.  Each one has its point and there is no way to distinguish between them.”

Beware!  Jesus actually came down strongly on a church in Revelation for being “tolerant.”  They were tolerating a false-prophet in their midst who was teaching false truth-claims and leading people into immorality.  Jesus did not have very nice words to say about this false-prophet.  You can read it in Revelation 2:20-25.  Obviously Jesus was not worried about political correctness.  If He were here today in the flesh, He would be accused of intolerance. 

Here’s the catch:  when it comes to people, we are indeed to be loving and gracious toward others, bearing with things we don’t like.  But when it comes to truth and holiness, we dare not tolerate sin or compromise God’s holy standards.  God’s Word is our standard.  It is absolute truth!

Loving? – ALWAYS!   Tolerant of sin and unbiblical values? – NO!  It’s time for Christians today to stand up for truth and righteousness in America!

Heavenly Father,
You are absolute truth!  Your Word is true!
Thank-you for revealing Yourself and Your will to us.
Give me the courage to stand up for truth and righteousness.
At the same time, may I also reflect Your love and grace!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

Yes, it’s that time of year again – time for New Year’s Resolutions.  Do you know what the top New Year’s Resolutions are every year?  Here are the top seven…

• Lose weight
• Exercise more
• Stop smoking
• Save more money
• Get out of debt
• More family-time
• Get better organized

Yet, over 60% of all Americans have given up on making New Year’s Resolutions.  Why?  Because we are afraid of failure.  Over 90% of all New Year’s Resolutions are broken within the first two weeks of January.  So, if you aim at nothing, at least you won’t miss it – right?  Yes, but if you don’t have anything to aim at, you’ll never hit anything, either.  In fact, you won’t even know if you’re close.

As you have probably fiured out, I am a big proponent of New Year’s Resolutions.  Why?  Because I am a huge advocate of goal-setting, and the New Year provides all of us an opportunity for a fresh start.  I like to think of New Year’s Resolutions as Annual Goals.

Think about this:  every athlete has a goal; whether it’s a goal-line to cross, a net to put the ball in, or a finish line to cross.  We all need something to aim at; we need goals to shoot for.  Otherwise, we only wallow in our past and settle for maintaining the status quo.  Goals keep us looking ahead, moving forward, growing, and stretching.  The problem is that most of our goals are either too nebulous and vague, or they are too lofty and unattainable.  We need to learn to set S.M.A.R.T. goals…

• S = Simple
• M = Measurable
• A = Attainable
• R = Realistic
• T = Trackable

Go ahead.  Give it another try.  Sit down some time this week and write out a few New Year’s Resolutions for 2009.   Set some personal goals, work goals, financial goals, and family goals.  And while you’re at it, don’t forget to set some spiritual goals for the New Year, too!

A NEW IDENTITY

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us,

that we should be called the children of God!”

(I John 3:1)

 

Do you ever struggle with an identity crisis?  It’s unfortunate that many Christians never fully understand and appreciate who they are in Christ.  So, for the next three weeks, let’s take a few moments to simply meditate on our position and privileges as children of God.    It may revolutionize your way of thinking.  Because of God’s amazing grace I have a new identity in Jesus Christ…

 

ü I am a child of God   (John 1:12; I John 3;1)

ü I am a friend of Christ   (John 15:15)

ü I have been justified   (Romans 5:1)

ü I am a member of God’s body   (I Corinthians 12:27)

ü I am a new creation   (II Corinthians 5:17)

ü I am a saint   (Ephesians 1:1)

ü I have been chosen and adopted by God   (Eph. 1:3-4)

ü I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sin   (Eph. 1:7)

ü I am complete in Christ   (Colossians 2:9-10)

ü I have direct access to God’s throne of grace in time of need   (Hebrews 4:16)

ü I am a royal priest   (I Peter 2:9) *

 

Too often in our world today, we are ingrained with the philosophy that what we do determines who we are.  Instead, the opposite is true – who we are determines what we do.  May the Holy Spirit remind us often of our identity in Jesus Christ.

 

“Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace. 

Thank you that I am forgiven and I am a new creation in Christ.

I am honored to be counted as one you’re your children.

May the awesome reality of my position in your family

 flood my soul & encourage me in my daily walk with You.

Lord, may others see You in me.  Amen.”

 

* Adapted & modified from “Freedom in Christ” by Neil Anderson

MY NEW IDENTITY (Part 2)

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life,

neither angels nor demons,

neither the present nor the future, nor any powers;

neither height or depth, nor anything else in all creation,

will be able to separate us from the love of God

that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

(Romans 8:38-39)

 

We live in a works-based culture.  We have been taught the American work ethic since we were young.  If we did all our chores, we got our weekly allowance.  If we did all our homework and did well on the tests, we got good grades in school.  And, if we work hard and produce well on the job, we might get a raise, a bonus, or a promotion.

Unfortunately, many people carry that same works-based thinking into their spiritual lives – if we’re good enough, God will welcome us into heaven.  But, the Bible clearly tells us that our salvation is not based on works.  Rather, it’s based entirely on God’s grace, received through simple faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9).  That’s all it takes to become a child of God.  Now, once a child of God: always a child of God.  Just as my own children are secure in my love – nothing will ever undo their position as my children – so we are secure in God’s love.  Because I am a child of God…

ü I am free forever from condemnation   (Romans 8:1-2)

ü I am assured that all things work together for good.   (Romans 8:28 )

ü I cannot be separated from the love of God   (Romans 8:38-39)

ü I am anointed and sealed by God   (II Corinthians 1:21)

ü I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms   (Ephesians 2:6)

ü I am hidden with Christ in God   (Colossians 3:1-4)

ü I am confident that God will complete the good work He began in me   (Philippians 1:6)

ü I am a citizen of heaven   (Philippians 3:20)

ü I can find grace and mercy in time of need   (Hebrews 4:16)

ü I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me.   (I John 5:18 )

 

Wow!  What a comfort to know with absolute assurance that I am secure in the grace and love of God.

 

“Heavenly Father,

Thank You once again for Your amazing grace.

I am in awe of Your love.

What a joy to know that I am secure

in my position as one of Your children.

May the gratitude in my heart for Your love

be reflected in my daily walk with You.

 In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

MY NEW IDENTITY (Part 3)

“You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world…

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good deeds

and praise your Father in heaven.”

(Matthew 5:13-16)

 

Our Arizona Cardinals are going to the Super Bowl this year, and we’re all very excited.  But, how significant is the Super Bowl, really?  How many people will remember who won this year’s Super Bowl 10 years from now?  How will this year’s Super Bowl impact our world?  What difference will it make in all of eternity? 

Isn’t it amazing what the world considers to be significant?  Don’t misunderstand me; I’m a big sports fan.  But, the world tells us our significance is based on our intellect, our beauty, our abilities, or our accomplishments.  If that’s the case, then I’m a nobody.  Fortunately, that’s not how God views us.  As a child of God, I am important, and I have a significant place in His Kingdom.  That’s true of you, too.  Just take a look at how significant God says you and I are…

ü I am the salt of the earth.   (Matthew 5:13)

ü I am the light of the world   (Matthew 5:14)

ü I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life.   (John 15:1-5)

ü I am a personal witness of Jesus Christ.   (Acts 1:8 )

ü I am God’s temple.   (I Corinthians 3:16)

ü I am a minister of reconciliation.   (II Corinthians 5:17)

ü I am God’s ambassador to the world.   (II Corinthians 5:20)

ü I am God’s co-worker.   (II Corinthians 6:1)

ü I am God’s workmanship.   (Ephesians 2:10)

ü I may approach God with freedom and confidence.   (Ephesians 3:12)

ü I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.   (Philippians 4:13) *

You and I are important.  We are very significant.  We are conduits of God’s love and grace in this world.  May God’s light and love shine brightly through each of us.

 

“Heavenly Father, I am privileged to be your child.

Help me to see the reality of life from Your perspective, rather than the world’s.

I know that my identity and significance are sourced in Jesus Christ.

May His light shine brightly in this world through my life.

 In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

WINNING THE SUPER BOWL OF LIFE

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith,

who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame,

and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

(Hebrews 12:2)

 

This Sunday is “Super Sunday!”  Our Arizona Cardinals are playing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Super Bowl.  So, what will it take to win?  As you know, there is never just one key to victory – there are many factors involved in putting together a winning team.

Have you ever considered how much life is like a football game?  You’re the quarterback, but you need many of the same factors in your life as the Cardinals need to win the Super Bowl.  Fortunately, God has given you all the resources you need for victory…

• Focus on the goal – Jesus is our goal   (Hebrews 11:2)
• A good coach – The Holy Spirit   (John 14:16-17; 26-17)
• A good defense – your spiritual armor / your position in Christ   (Ephesians 6:13-17)
• A good offense – the Word of God and Prayer   (Ephesians 6:17-18 )
• A good team effort – fellowship with other believers   (Hebrews 10:24-25)
• Execution of the game-plan – obedience   (I John 5:3-5)

And to top it all off, we even have a host of fans in the grandstands – all the saints that have gone before us into heaven (Hebrews 12:1).  They are all cheering us on to victory in the Super Bowl of life!

 

“Heavenly Father,

Thank you for giving me Your Holy Spirit to live in me and coach me through life.

Thank you for giving me all the resources I need for victory in this life.

Give me the strength to obey You even when it’s not easy or popular.

And, Lord, thank you that I am on the winning team – Your team!

In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

YOUR SPIRITUAL GPS

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”

(Psalm 119:105)

 

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful

for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training  in righteousness,

so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
(II Timothy 3:16-17)

 

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a constellation of 24-32 satellites orbiting the earth that transmits precise microwave signals to receivers on earth to determine their location, direction, speed, and time.  It was first designed for the military; but is now commonly used by commercial pilots, boaters, hikers, drivers, and other everyday users.  If you have GPS in your car, you can program your present location and destination, and GPS will guide you to where you want to go.  Essentially, GPS is a highly sophisticated technological map for worldwide navigation.

Did you know that God has given you a spiritual GPS to use in your everyday life, as well?  Your spiritual GPS is your Bible.  As you read the Bible, it helps position you spiritually and it guides you on your spiritual journey.  According to II Timothy 3:16, God’s Word shows you what direction to travel (teaching), it alerts you when you veer off track (rebuking), it repositions you back on target (correcting), and it keeps you moving forward spiritually (training).  If the Psalmist were writing today, he may have written Psalm 119:105 a little differently – “Your word is my GPS on my spiritual journey.”

I encourage you to check your spiritual GPS daily.  We need God’s direction on our spiritual journey!

 

“Heavenly Father,

Thank you for giving us Your Word.

As I read it, You provide guidance and direction for my spiritual journey.

May I be a doer of Your Word, and not a hearer only.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

THE ULTIMATE VALENTINE

“This is how we know what love is:

Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.

And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers…

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue

 but with actions and in truth.”
- I John 3:16-18

This Saturday is Valentine’s Day.  Americans will purchase 110 million roses (mostly red), 1 billion cards, 8 billion conversation hearts, and more than 35 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate.  Add to that, dinner-out, teddy-bears, jewelry, and numerous other gifts; and Americans will spend a total of $17 billion on Valentine’s Day.   The average consumer will spend over $100 on their “valentine” – myself included.  Why?  We want to express our love to that special “valentine” in our life.

Have you considered lately how much God loves you?  You are the apple of His eye.  You are His special valentine.  And, God demonstrated His love for you with more than a card or a flower or a box of chocolates.  Jesus stretched out His hands on the cross and said, “This is how much I love you!”  He gave His life for you.  He gave the ultimate valentine!

May you and I, as God’s children, be a reflection of His love.  May we love others as He loved us!

 

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for Your amazing love

which Jesus demonstrated in laying down His life for me.

I pray that I might reflect Your unconditional and sacrificial love

in my everyday relationships.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

SPIRITUAL BLOWOUTS

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just

and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

(I John 1:9)

 

I had a blow-out yesterday.  While I was driving back to my office after lunch, I ran over something and blew out a tire on my pick-up.  It went completely flat instantly.  I drove on it for a couple blocks to find a better place to change the tire, but apparently that made matters worse.  I couldn’t get the lug nuts off with my wimpy lug-wrench.  And, since I left my cell phone in my office, I couldn’t call for help very quickly.  Fortunately, a “Good Samaritan” came to my rescue with a bigger lug-wrench, but in the process I broke one of the studs and stripped another.  I had to get 2 new studs and a new tire.  When I finally got to the tire shop, they found a 3-inch gash in the tire.  No wonder it went flat so quickly.

King David experienced a spiritual blowout in his life, even though he is referred to as “a man after God’s heart.”  He committed adultery with Bathsheba.  One thing led to another.  Before David knew what hit him, he had broken almost all of the Ten Commandments – he coveted, he committed adultery, he stole, he lied, he murdered, he disgraced the name of God, etc, etc.  He tried to keep driving on his “flat tire” for another year, but that only made matters worse – he was miserable (c.f. Psalm 32:3-4).  But, when David finally confessed his sin to God; God forgave him, purified his heart, and restored his joy (c.f. Psalm 32:5; 51:10-12).

Have you ever had a spiritual blowout?   Blowouts are caused by sin – whether big or small.  If you try to ignore it and drive on it for awhile, your joy will inevitably turn to misery.  Fortunately, there is a cure for spiritual blowouts: confession.  When you confess your sin to God; He forgives you, cleanses your soul, restores your relationship with Him, and renews your joy.  Praise the Lord!

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love…

Create in me a pure heart … and renew a steadfast spirit within me…

Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

(Psalm 51:1 & 10-12)

EXCUSE ME, ARE YOU JESUS?

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children

and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us…”

(Ephesians 5:1-2)

 

A story is told of a group of salesmen who went to a regional convention in Chicago a few years ago.  They had each assured their wives that they would be home in plenty of time for dinner on Friday night.  As they were rushing through the airport with tickets and briefcases in hand, one of the salesmen inadvertently kicked over a table holding a display of apples.  Apples flew everywhere.  But, without stopping or looking back, they managed to barely reach their plane in time for the last boarding call.

ALL BUT ONE!  He paused, took a deep breath, waved good-bye to his buddies, and told one of them to call his wife and explain that he was catching a later flight.  Then he turned around to help the girl whose apple cart had been overturned.

He was glad he did.  The 16-year old girl was blind!  She was crying softly, with tears running down her cheeks in frustration, as she helplessly searched for her spilled apples with throngs of people swirling around her, and no one stopping to help.  The salesman knelt on the floor with her, gathered up the apples, put them back on the table and helped organize her display.  As he did so, he noticed that many of them had been battered and bruised.  He set them aside in another basket.  When he had finished, he pulled out his wallet and said to the girl, “Here, please take this $40 for the damage we did.  Are you okay?”  She nodded through her tears.  He continued, “I hope we didn’t spoil your day too badly.”

As the salesman started to walk away, the bewildered blind girl called out to him, “Mister…”  He paused and turned to look back at her.  She continued, “Excuse me, sir, are you Jesus?”

Have you ever been mistaken for Jesus?  Has anyone every asked, “Excuse me, are you Jesus?”  Isn’t that our goal as God’s children?  If we claim to know Him, we should also live and love like Jesus.

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

I am once again honored to be one of your dearly loved children.

May my life be a reflection of Your Son who loved me and gave Himself for me.

As I rub shoulders with others throughout the day, may they see Jesus in me.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS ASK

“Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?

Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children,

how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!”

(Matthew 7:9-11)

 

I have a two-year old grandson who likes to play with rocks.  So, I can appreciate the following story…

A young boy was doing his best to lift a rock that was too large for someone his size.  He grunted and groaned and huffed and puffed as he tried various methods to move the rock.  But, in spite of all his efforts, the rock wouldn’t budge.  His father walked by and, after watching his son struggle for awhile, finally asked if he was having trouble.  The boy answered, “Yes, I’ve tried everything, and it won’t move.”  The father replied, “Are you sure you have tried everything?  Have you used every resource at your disposal?’  The boy looked up with frustration filling his face and blurted out in exhaustion, Yes!”  Gently, the father bent over and softly said, “No, son, you haven’t.  You haven’t asked for my help.”

How often are we just like that little boy, struggling with our problems all on our own but unable to solve them – because we haven’t asked for our Father’s help.  He wants to help you.  All you have to do is ask.

 

Dear Father in heaven,

I can’t do this all on my own.

I need Your strength when I am weak.

 I need Your peace and Your presence when I worry.

I need Your wisdom as I wrestle with difficult decisions.

I need Your guidance as I walk life’s journey.

I need You, Lord!

Amen.

DOVE, WIND, FIRE, & OIL

“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit,

who is in you, whom you have received from God?

…Therefore honor God with your body.”

(I Corinthians 6:19-20)

 

The Bible tells us that the moment we trust Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells us.  In other words, He takes up His residence in our lives.  My heart becomes His home.  So, what does the Holy Spirit do in us?  Several pictures of the Holy Spirit in the Bible give us a glimpse into His ministry in our lives.  He is pictured as…

ü A Dove – peaceful and tranquil

ü Wind – invisible, but powerful (just ask anyone who has experienced a hurricane)

ü Fire – used to refine and purify

ü Oil – used in the Bible to anoint God’s people for service.

Since the Holy Spirit lives in you, He is actively engaged in your daily life.  As a dove, the Holy Spirit floods your soul with God’s peace even in the midst of an unsettled world.  As a powerful wind, the Holy Spirit breathes power into your life as you live for Jesus.  As fire from above, He purifies your heart from sin and selfishness.  And, as divine oil, the Holy Spirit has anointed you for service in God’s Kingdom.

Even though you can’t see the Holy Spirit – He is very active in your life.  He is that still, small voice of the Lord in your heart and mind and soul.  Are you listening?  Are you experiencing His peace?  Are you letting Him lead you and empower your daily walk?

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for giving me your Holy Spirit to live in my heart and life.

Thank you for His peace, His power, His guidance, and His anointing.

 May my life truly honor the One who has taken up His residence in my heart?

Keep me in tune with Your Spirit.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

WHO’S YOUR NEIGHBOR?

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul

and with all your strength and with all your mind;

and love your neighbor as yourself.”

(Luke 10:27)

 

Upon hearing Jesus answer his question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” the expert lawyer asked a follow-up question:  “Who is my neighbor?”  Of course, being a lawyer, he was probably looking for a loophole – “I don’t have to love people who are different than me, do I?  I love all my friends; isn’t that good enough?”

Jesus went for the jugular by telling a story we know today as “The Good Samaritan.”  You can read it in Luke 10:25-37.  He chose one of the most despised neighbors of the Jews – a Samaritan – to demonstrate that my neighbor is anybody near me who is in need; regardless of race, sex, income, or social status.

With today’s economic woes, there are plenty of people around us in need.  As Christians, we have a unique opportunity before us today to practice what Jesus taught: “Love your neighbor.”  Obviously, you and I can’t help everyone; but we can reach out and touch someone’s life – a friend, a co-worker, a next-door neighbor, an acquaintance, even an enemy? 

So, I want to encourage you to do a couple things this week – just for the fun of it…

• A random act of kindness – look around and find a “neighbor” in need and just do some random act of kindness for them.  They don’t even have to know it was you who did it?
• Invite a “neighbor” to our Fifth Sunday Special on March 29^th – “The Blackwood Legacy.”  It’ll be a lot of fun!

Let’s be good neighbors!

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for reaching out and loving me, even though I did not deserve Your love.

Open my eyes and help me see people around me as You see them.

And give me the courage to reach out and love them as You loved me.

Help me to be a good neighbor.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

ARE WE HAVING FUN YET?

“Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions,

and enables him to enjoy them,

to accept his lot and be happy in his work – this is a gift of God.”

(Ecclesiastes 5:19)

 

Why do so many people think Christians are boring and don’t have any fun in life?  Do we take ourselves too seriously?  Do we take life too seriously?  Do we impose so many rules on ourselves; we suck the joy right out of life? 

I believe God actually wants us to enjoy life – to have fun!  Think about it for a moment – when God created Adam and Eve, where did he place them?  He put them in paradise.  We call it the Garden of Eden, but it was truly paradise!  While we’re not in paradise yet, God still wants His children to enjoy life on this earth.  Here are a few verses that give you permission to enjoy life…

·         I Timothy 6:17 – “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain;  but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment.” – We have certainly experienced the uncertainty of wealth in America recently.  Our trust must be in God.  Then, instead of fretting over what we don’t have, God wants us to enjoy what He do have – what He has provided for our enjoyment.

·         Ecclesiastes 11:8 – “However many years a man may live, let him enjoy them all…”  Of course, in the next verse Solomon brings some balance in life, pointing out that God will judge us in the end.  But once again, God wants us to enjoy life in healthy ways!

·         Ecclesiastes 9:9 – “Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love…”  Yes, even marriage is intended, in part, for our enjoyment.  God wants us to enjoy our spouses and to enjoy life together!

So, no boring Christians, please!  Don’t take yourself too seriously.  Lighten up.  Have some fun.  Enjoy life as God intended it to be enjoyed!

And speaking of fun – don’t miss our Fifth Sunday Special this Sunday at 10:30 am.  We’re having a Southern Gospel Concert featuring “The Blackwood Legacy” and an old-fashioned barbecue on the church grounds after the concert.  Bring a friend and join the fun!!!

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for Your provisions in my life.

I recognize that everything I have comes from Your gracious hand.

Give me the grace to enjoy life as you intend it to be enjoyed.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

THE REAL APRIL FOOLS

“But God said to him ‘You fool!

This very night your life will be demanded from you.

Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’”

This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself

but is not rich toward God.”

(Luke 12:20-21)

 

Have you heard about the major infrastructure project being planned by our politicians in Washington D.C.?  They’re planning to build a trans-pacific bridge from Los Angeles to Honolulu.  Of course, there will have to be a few floating rest stops, gas stations, restaurants, and motels along the way; maybe even a floating city at the mid-point.  Now, that’s a major economic stimulus package!  It will keep a lot of people employed for long time.  April fools!

We love to play practical jokes on April Fool’s Day.  But, did you know the Bible actually identifies two real fools in the world.  The first is found in Psalm 14:1, “The fool says in his heart, there is no God.”  So, the first fool is an atheist – anyone who claims there is no God. 

But, it’s the second fool, identified in Luke 12:13-21, that concerns me.  I refer to this fool as a practical atheist – one who may believe in God, but still lives their life as though God doesn’t exist.  The fool in this story built quite a financial portfolio for himself.  He had made his fortune in commodities, and he had tons of wealth set aside for an early retirement.  His philosophy in life was clear: “take life easy; eat, drink and be merry” (verse 19).  Unfortunately, he never got to enjoy his wealth.  He died! 

What concerns me is that there are so many Christians in America just like him – people who say they believe in God, but still live as though He doesn’t exist.  We have the same philosophy of “eat, drink, and be merry”.  We store up treasure on earth, rather than heaven.  We live for self, rather than for God.  We build our own kingdoms, rather than God’s kingdom.  We think only of this world, rather than eternity.

So, my encouragement to you on this April Fools Day is simple:  Don’t be a fool.  Granted, we’re not atheists.  We certainly believe in God.  But, let’s not be practical atheists, either.  Let’s keep our eyes focused on heaven, rather than earth.  Let’s live for the glory of God, rather than for ourselves.

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

I praise You for Your faithfulness.  Your mercies are new every day.

Forgive me for taking You for granted and for living so selfishly.

As I live each day on this earth,

may Your Holy Spirit keep my eyes focused on heaven,

my mind centered in You, and my heart in tune with eternity.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

THE DAY THAT CHANGED THE WORLD

“Why do you look for the living among the dead?

He is not here; he has risen!”

(Luke 24:5-6)

 

No, it wasn’t the day Obama was elected President.  It wasn’t 9-11.  It wasn’t Pearl Harbor or Hiroshima.  It wasn’t the day the Wright Brothers flew for the first time or the day man landed on the moon.  And, it wasn’t the day the first computer was invented or the day the Internet was created.  All those significant days and events certainly impacted history as we know it.

But the day that changed the world not only changed the course of history; it impacted eternity, as well.  Our world was changed forever the day Jesus rose from the grave.  We refer to that day as “Easter.”  It is without question, the most significant day in all of history and eternity.  So, take a few moments this week and reflect on the tremendous impact of Easter.  Because of Jesus’ resurrection…

·         Satan has been defeated.    (I Corinthians 15)

·         Death has been conquered.   (I Corinthians 15:54)

·         Our sin is forgiven.   (Romans 4:25)

·         We have eternal life.   (Romans 6:4)

·         We have a future in heaven.   (I Corinthians 15:23)

·         We have a living hope.   (I Peter 1:3)

·         We have victory through Jesus Christ.   (I Corinthians 15:58)

Now, take a few moments to thank the Lord for all the blessings that are yours because of Easter.  Celebrate the day that changed the world forever!  He has risen!  He’s alive!!!

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for Easter and the victorious resurrection of Jesus.

Thank you for forgiveness of sin and the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Thank you for the living hope and spiritual victory I have because of Easter.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

WHAT AMERICA NEEDS MOST

“If my people who are called by my name,

will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways,

then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

(II Chronicles 7:14)

 

What do we need most in America?  More corporate bailouts?  Another economic stimulus package?  More credit?  Tax relief?  Health care reform?  Public education reform?  A complete overhaul of our leadership in Washington?  A new political party?  Are any of these really the answer to America’s greatest need?  I don’t think so!

I believe our greatest need isn’t economic or political or even moral by itself. Our greatest need in America is spiritual.  Although our country was founded on a Judeo-Christian value system, we have strayed far from our roots.  What we need most in America is genuine revival!

But, what is revival?  There are a lot of misconceptions about revival floating around today.  But, the word comes from the Latin, “viva,” which means “life.”  Revival is a resurgence or renewal of life.  By definition, then, revival presupposes a spark of life to begin with.  In other words, “revival” is about God’s people.  It’s about a renewal of spiritual life in Christians, rather than evangelizing the lost.  That’s exactly what II Chronicles 7:14 implies – “If my people who are called by my name…”

According to that same verse, the result of revival is God’s healing of our land.  Isn’t that exactly what we want and need in America?  Absolutely!  But, did you catch the four prerequisites to God’s healing?  Those four prerequisites sum up genuine revival…

·         Humility

·         Prayer

·         Seeking God

·         Repentance

Wow!  Is it even possible?  Could we ever see genuine revival in America again?  Remember, nothing is impossible with God.  May it begin in each of us, myself included.

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

We need revival in America.  May it begin with me.

I confess my own pride and selfishness, and my sin and disobedience.

Please plant within my heart a genuine desire for a deeper relationship with You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

WHAT AMERICA NEEDS MOST (Part 2)

“If my people who are called by my name,

will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways,

then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

(II Chronicles 7:14)

 

The first of the four prerequisites to revival & God’s healing of our land is humility!  Without it, my pride will prevent the next three:  prayer, seeking God, and repentance.  After all, a proud person doesn’t need to pray – he already has life all figured out.  A proud person doesn’t bother seeking God – he is self-made and self-sufficient.  And a proud person certainly doesn’t need to repent – he never does anything wrong. 

On the other hand, humility acknowledges our completely dependence on God.  Humility recognizes that everything we have is but a gift from the gracious hand of a loving God.  Humility realizes that we are spiritually bankrupt and desperately in need of God – every moment of every day.  And humility admits that we are imperfect and in need of God’s grace and forgiveness.

I like the following description of humility from an article entitled, “The Art of Being a Big Shot.”

It is my pride that makes me independent of God.  It’s appealing to me to feel that I am the master of my fate, that I run my own life, call my own shots, and go it alone.  But that feeling is my basic dishonesty.  I can’t go it alone.  I have to get help from other people, and I can’t ultimately rely on myself.  I’m dependent on God for my next breath.  It is dishonest of me to pretend that I’m anything but a man – small, weak, and limited.  So, living independent of God is self-delusion.  It is not just a matter of pride being an unfortunate little trait and humility being an attractive little virtue; it’s my inner psychological integrity that’s at stake.  When I am conceited, I am lying to myself about what I am.  I am pretending to be God, and not man.  My pride is the idolatrous worship of myself.  And that is the national religion of hell.

Revival will only come when we humble ourselves before God and admit that we desperately need Him.  If God is going to heal America, it must start with Americans humbling themselves before God.

 

“…God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble…

Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up.”

(James 4 6-10).

HANGIN’ OUT WITH GOD

“If my people who are called by my name,

will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways,

then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

(II Chronicles 7:14)

 

Last week I flew up to Seattle for a couple days to see my son.  No particular reason; I just wanted to see him.  While I was there, we got some needed repairs done on his car, worked in his yard a little, went out for dinner one night & lunch the next day, toured the machine shop where he works, and played a few games.  His girlfriend stomped both of us in monopoly.  Basically, we just kinda’ hung-out together for a couple days.  There is nothing I enjoy more in life than hangin’ out with family – my wife, my kids and their spouses, and my 2 grandchildren.

I think God would say the same thing.  He enjoys hangin’ out with His kids – you and me.  He loves it when we spend some time with Him.  In fact, that’s what “Sabbath” is all about.  It’s a special day every week designated to take a break from the mundane things of life and spend some time just hangin’ out with God.  It’s our “big date” every week with Jesus.  It’s a day for physical and spiritual renewal. 

One of the four prerequisites for revival and for God’s healing of our land is, “seeking God’s face.”  I believe when God’s children begin to seek His face again, we will see revival in at least three areas…

·         A renewal of prayer in America

·         A renewed hunger for God’s Word

·         A return to church on “Sabbath” (Sunday)

God looks forward to spending time with His kids; I trust you look forward to hangin’ out with Him, too!

 

Dear Father,

Forgive me for neglecting Sabbath in my life.  I need more “hang-time” with you!

“As the dear pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.

How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty!

My soul yearns, even faints for the courts of the Lord;

my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.”

(Psalm 42 & 84)

MOMS ARE THE BEST!

“A wife of noble character; who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her.
Give her the reward she has earned…”
(Proverbs 31:10-31) 

This Sunday is Mother’s Day.  It is certainly appropriate to take some time to honor moms.  Here are a few thoughts from a book by Max Lucado entitled, “God Thinks You’re Wonderful, Mom!”

Some things only a mom can do…

• Only a mother can powder a baby’s behind with one hand and hold the phone with the other.
• Only a mom can discern which teen is entering the door just by the sound of the key in lock.
• Only a mom can spend a day wiping noses, laundering enough socks for the Yankees, balancing a checkbook down to $1.27, and still mean it when she thanks God for her kids.

Some things only a mom can fix…

• Like Hamburger Helper without the hamburger
• Like the cabinet door her husband couldn’t & his bruised ego when he found out she could.
• Broken shoelace?  Broken heart?  Breaking out on your face?  Breaking up with your sweetheart?  Moms can handle that.

Some things only a mom can know…

• The time it takes to drive from piano lessons to Little League practice.
• How many pizzas you need for a middle school sleepover.
• How many weight watcher points are left in a day and days are left in the semester.

Moms are a breed apart!

God certainly did his best creative work when He created moms.  Be sure to take some time to honor your mom this week.  And, if you are a mom – thanks for your unselfish, unconditional, and undying love.  May God richly bless you! 

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thanks for your perfect plan of marriage and family.
Thanks for my mom.  May you bless her this week in some special way.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A STRATEGY FOR VICTORY

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them,
because the one who is in you is greater
than the one who is in the world.”
(I John 4:4)

America has been engaged in wars and skirmishes around the world for years.  Today, we are fighting on two primary fronts:  Afghanistan and Iraq.  It’s been a difficult war because the enemy we are fighting doesn’t always fight fair.  They don’t adhere to standard rules of engagement.   Our soldiers might encounter the enemy any time, any place, and in any circumstance.

Whether we know it or not, as Christians, we are engaged in a war ourselves.  The difficult aspect of this war is that we can’t see our enemy.  Our enemy is spiritual.  We are fighting a spiritual battle.  And we might encounter our enemy any time, any place, and in any circumstance.

So, let me suggest an 8-fold strategy for spiritual warfare…

• Know your enemy – Satan. 
• Know your enemy’s tactics – temptation, selfishness, pride, divisiveness, apathy, etc.
• Know your own areas of vulnerability – anger, greed, lust, pride, etc.
• Stand firm in your faith! – Always remember you are a child of God!
• Saturate your mind with God’s Word – The Bible is your primary spiritual weapon!
• When tempted, RUN!   (II Timothy 2:22)
• When you blow it, CONFESS! – Keep short accounts with God!   (I John 1:9)
• Pray!  Pray!!  Pray!!!

The good news is that Jesus defeated Satan at the cross.  You & I are on the winning side!  The one in us (Jesus) is far greater than the one in the world (Satan).  Victory is ours through Jesus Christ!

 Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world.
I recognize that I am in a spiritual war, and I can’t fight the battle alone.
I need your wisdom.  I need your guidance.  I need your strength.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

SURVIVOR: THE ECONOMY

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.
For we brought nothing into the world and we can take nothing out of it.
But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.”
(I Timothy 6:6-8) 

Last Sunday was the season finale of “Survivor: Tocantins.”  We also began our own series, entitled “Survivor: The Economy.”  Let’s be honest:  we’re living in tough economic times.  Whether pay cuts, investment losses, upside-down mortgages, job losses, or foreclosures; we have all felt the impact of our economy.  So, I’d like to quickly review one point from last Sunday’s message – I believe one of the keys to surviving our economy is contentment.  We must learn to be content with what God has provided; whether a little or a lot. 

Unfortunately, contentment is not easy.  Thousands of advertisements bombard us every day with the exact opposite message – “you can’t be content until you get …”   So, what’s the secret to contentment?   I believe the answer is in our perspective.  We need to refocus on what really matters and on what brings true happiness.  We must…

• Focus on people rather than possessions.
• Focus on relationships rather than riches.

Think about this for a moment.  How much does it cost to acquire more possessions?  A lot – there is no end to how much money we can spend on things.  But, how much does it cost to build a meaningful relationship?  Very little – in fact, we can build a relationship without spending a dime.  Now, which will last longer – possessions or relationships?  Which is most meaningful?  And, which is most valuable?

You can survive and even thrive in our present economy by refocusing on three relationships in your life:  (1) your relationship with God, (2) your relationship with family, and (3) your relationships with friends.  When you refocus on relationships, contentment is not far behind. 

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all that You have provided.
Help me learn to be content with a little or a lot.
Keep me focused on what really matters in life,
beginning with my relationship with You.
And, thank you for the family and friends You have given me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

MANY CHOICES – ONE WAY

“…Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction,
and many enter through it.
But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life;
and only a few find it.”
(Matthew 7:13-14)

Variety is the spice of life.  And, we Americans love our choices.  For instance, there used to be 3 or 4 basic cereals you could buy for breakfast – Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, Cheerios, and Shredded Wheat.   Now, there is a whole aisle of cereals at the grocery store with dozens of choices.  There used to be 3 television networks to choose from – ABC, CBS, and NBC.   Now, with cable and satellite, there are hundreds of channels from which to choose.

I’ve been getting ready for the Grand Opening of our Café at NMC this weekend.  I just returned from buying drinks for our beverage cooler – bottled water, Snapple, energy drinks, Orange Juice, Gatorade, Frappuccinos, and more – and that’s in addition to the many varieties of pop we already have.  We also installed a Coffee Brewer, and ordered about a dozen different varieties or blends of coffee and tea.  We certainly do love choices in life. 

There are also many choices for your spiritual journey through life.  Jesus said there is a wide road with many lanes you can choose for your journey – humanism, atheism, morality, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and many other religions.  Unfortunately, the wide road leads to destruction.  If you want to have a relationship with the true God and enjoy eternal life with Him, you need to get on a different road.  It’s a narrow road with only one lane.  That lane is Jesus Christ.  Contrary to popular belief today, all paths do not lead to God.  Jesus is the only path to God.

I trust you have chosen that one-lane road for your spiritual journey.  I trust you have chosen Jesus!

 Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your Son, Jesus!
Even with all the choices in life today, I choose to follow Him.
May my life continue to reflect Jesus in all I do.
And may His love flow through me to help others find the way.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

PREPARE FOR BATTLE

“Put on the full armor of God
so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
(Ephesians 6:11)

When Paul wrote these words in Ephesians 6, he was probably sitting in a Roman prison, chained to a Roman soldier.  As he looked at the soldier, he was reminded that we are in a spiritual battle every day.  So, he used the armor of this Roman soldier to paint a picture of our own spiritual defenses against our enemy, Satan. 

How would Paul paint the picture if he were living in the 21^st Century and acquainted with modern-day warfare?  Allow me to attempt a paraphrase of Ephesians 6:13-18 as a modern-day word picture of our spiritual defenses…

Put on your full spiritual armor so that when Satan attacks, you are able to withstand his attack and be victorious in your Christian life.

Make sure you have your survival belt of truth on, fully loaded with ammo and supplies; and your bullet-proof vest of Christ’s righteousness in place.

Stand firm with your combat boots on and laced up with the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Now, jump in your armored Humvee of faith, for protection against Satan’s grenades and IED’s as you travel your spiritual journey ahead; and  be sure to wear your combat helmet of salvation to protect your mind against the enemy’s  propaganda.

Carry your assault rifle, fully loaded with the words of Scripture, ready to fire at the enemy.

And finally, be sure you consult your commanding officer before going into battle.  Ask for his directions and follow his battle plans.  Always be alert and remember your comrades fighting alongside you in the battle.

If you have some other ideas on how to contemporize this passage, feel free to share your thoughts in my blog.  But more importantly, I pray that you are experiencing victory as you walk your spiritual journey!

 Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the spiritual armor you provide to fight the spiritual battle.
I am so grateful that you have promised victory in Jesus Christ.
May Your Word empower me & Your Holy Spirit strengthen me
day-by-day on my spiritual journey!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A SUMMER CHALLENGE

“There is a time for everything,
And a season for every activity under heaven…”
(Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

School is out.  The kids are home.  Vacation is just around the corner.  It’s hot outside.  Summer is here! 

Summer is a great time of year, because it provides an opportunity for a change of pace.  We get so busy the rest of the year, we need a break.  We need rest.  We need Sabbath.  We need extended Sabbath sometimes.  So, I encourage you to take a vacation this summer.  Go camping.  Go to Disneyland.  Go on a cruise.  Go visit Grandma & Grandpa. 

Even at church, many of our ministries and Bible Studies take the summer off.  But, even though you take a break during the summer – don’t take a break from God!  Include Him in your summer plans.  In fact, I encourage you to use your summer break for some spiritual renewal, as well.  Spend come extra time in prayer.  Read more of God’s Word.  Memorize some Scripture verses.  Read a good book.  When you’re in town, come to church.  When you’re on vacation, visit a different church just for fun.  Enjoy the Lord as you rest and relax this summer!

In that regard, I’d like to issue a Summer Challenge.  Here are four things I encourage you to do this summer as you enjoy your change-of-pace.

     1.    Read the Book of Proverbs – it’s full of practical every-day
            wisdom!
     2.    Memorize three Proverbs – 1 each month

- Proverbs 1:7
- Proverbs 3:5-6
- Proverbs (you pick one)

     3.    Visit another church while on vacation.
     4.    Invite a friend to visit your church. 

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for different seasons of life!
Thank you for the summers in life, when we enjoy some extra Sabbath.
As I rest this summer, may Your Holy Spirit
fill me with your presence and peace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

THE STRENGTH OF A MAN

“The righteous man leads a blameless life;
blessed are his children after him.”
(Proverbs 20:7)

This Sunday is Father’s Day.  I sometimes wonder if we celebrate Father’s Day just to be politically correct – after all, we have a Mother’s Day; so we need to balance it with a day for dads, right?  Think about it.  We give mother’s flowers in church on Mother’s Day; we give dads a pat-on-the back on Father’s Day.  We take mom out for dinner on Mother’s Day so she doesn’t have to cook; we have backyard barbecues on Father’s Day and ask dad to do the grilling.  What kind of balance is this?

But dads, don’t ever underestimate your significance!  You are truly the #1 influence in your children’s lives.  Every child wants dad’s approval, acceptance, and affirmation.  Every child longs to hear their father say, “Well done!  I’m proud of you!”  Why?  Because you’re their dad!  You’re their hero!

I ran across this simple, but profound article in my files this week entitled, “The Strength of a Man.”  Dads, think about these truths…

The strength of a man isn’t seen in the width of his shoulders.
       It’s in the width of his arms that encircle his children.
The strength of a man isn’t in the deep tone of his voice.
       It’s in the gentle words he whispers.
The strength of a man isn’t in how respected he is at work.
       It’s in how respected he is at home.
The strength of a man isn’t in how hard he hits.
       It’s in how tender he touches.
The strength of a man isn’t in the hair on his chest.
       It’s in his heart that lies within his chest.
The strength of a man isn’t in how many women he’s loved.
       It’s in being true to one woman.
The strength of a man isn’t in the weight he can lift.
       It’s in the burdens he can carry.

Dads, you have a very special place in your children’s hearts and lives.  Never underestimate your impact on your sons and daughters.

 Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for being my loving Father.
May I imitate your example of fatherhood in my life.
May I be a man of integrity, compassion, courage, truth, and grace.
And, may I be a godly example for my children to imitate!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

HOW TO BE A WISE GUY

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.”
(Proverbs 1:7)

Suppose for a moment that God appeared to you and said, “You can have anything you want.  I’ll grant you one wish.”  What would you ask for?  Riches?  Pleasure?  Fame?  Power?  Possessions?  A new house?  A new spouse?  What would be your one request?

A guy in the Bible actually had that opportunity.  In I Kings 3, God told Solomon he could have one wish.  Solomon didn’t ask for riches or fame or power; instead, he asked for wisdom.  God granted Solomon his request and he became the wisest man who ever lived.  He wrote three books in the Bible, including Proverbs.  There, Solomon shares much of his wisdom with the whole world, including us. 

A proverb is a short, pithy saying that provides practical guidance in life.  Or, we could define it as “a saying with a punch.”  For instance, here are a few familiar proverbs from our own culture…

• An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
• A penny saved is a penny earned.
• Look before you leap.

Short.  Simple.  Catchy.  But, profound!  That’s a proverb.  For the rest of the summer, we will be studying several themes in the book of Proverbs during our worship services.  I’ve entitled the series, “How to be a Wise Guy” – not a smart aleck, but a true wise guy.  We’ll be examining some of Solomon’s practical wisdom for everyday living.

I want to encourage you to read the book of Proverbs this summer.  There are 31 chapters in Proverbs, so if you read a chapter a day, you can read the entire book twice during the months of July & August.  Go for it.  You just might find some real nuggets of wisdom for your own life.

 Dear Heavenly Father,
You are an omniscient and all-wise God.
That means You know what is best for my life.
Thank you sharing Your wisdom and guidance in Your Word.
May I be faithful in reading and applying Your Word in my life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…”
(Psalm 33:12)

This weekend, we celebrate Independence Day.  It was 233 years ago – July 4^th, 1776 – that our founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence and declared our freedom from British rule.  Today, there is some debate whether America is a “Christian” nation or not.  But, it is an undeniable fact that our founding fathers believed in God and America was founded on Christian principles.  Take a look at a few quotes from some of the men who signed our Declaration of Independence… 

• “God who gave us life gave us liberty. And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are of the Gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with His wrath? Indeed, I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that His justice cannot sleep forever….”  (Thomas Jefferson, author) 
• “Resistance to tyranny becomes the Christian and social duty of each individual. … Continue steadfast and, with a proper sense of your dependence on God, nobly defend those rights which heaven gave, and no man ought to take from us.” (John Hancock, first signer) 
• “The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity. I will avow that I then believed, and now believe, that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal and immutable as the existence and attributes of God.”   (John Adams, signer) 
• “Here is my Creed. I believe in one God, the Creator of the Universe. That He governs it by His Providence. That He ought to be worshipped. (Benjamin Franklin, signer) 
• “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” (Patrick Henry, signer) 

Of course, we are all familiar with the words in the opening of the Declaration of Independence itself, but take a look at the closing words, as well… 

• “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”  (beginning) 
• And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.”  (closing)

The first President of the United States was a Christian, as well.  His words are a good reminder for all of us…

• “While we are zealously performing the duties of good citizens and soldiers, we certainly ought not to be inattentive to the higher duties of religion. To the distinguished character of Patriot, it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of Christian.” (George Washington, first President.)

Clearly, our founding fathers believed in God.  Clearly, America was founded on Christian principles.  As you celebrate the “fourth” this weekend; celebrate our Christian heritage, as well.  May God bless America!

 Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for this great nation in which we live,
and for Your many blessings on America over the past 233 years.
We pray for revival in our nation!
May Your Holy Spirit draw us back to Yourself!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A GOOD REPUTATION

“A good name is more desirable than great riches;
To be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
(Proverbs 22:1) 

What kind of reputation do the following individuals have in your mind?

- Abraham Lincoln
- Bill Clinton
- Adolf Hitler
- Fidel Castro
- Bill Gates
- Mother Teresa

Whether good or bad, our reputation follows us wherever we go, even after we die.  With our present economy, it’s hard to imagine that anything might be more valuable than silver or gold; but the wisest man who ever lived (Solomon) suggested that a good name – a good reputation – is more valuable than great wealth. 

So, how do we build a good reputation?  First we must recognize that a good reputation is much different than status.  While status may be expensive, it’s relatively simple:  wear designer labels, live in a ritzy neighborhood, drive a Porsche, dine at the finest restaurants, and attend the opera and symphony.  In other words, you can buy it, wear it, drive it, live in it, eat it, or attend it.  But, a good reputation isn’t that easy. 

So, how do we build a good reputation?  In the book of Proverbs, Solomon offers a few suggestions on building and maintaining a good name.  A good reputation is built on character, rather than image.  Several character traits jump off the pages of Proverbs at us – things like integrity, kindness, generosity, and humility.  And those four character traits also suggest a few things that will destroy a reputation – things like dishonesty, anger and fighting, selfishness and greed, and pride.

How is your reputation?  With your family?  In your neighborhood?  On the job?  With your friends?  As God’s children, let’s live up to His name!

 Yahweh,
Your name encompasses all that You are.
You are a God of holiness and truth, and a God of love and compassion.
May I live up to your name?  May my life reflect Your character in all I do?
May others see Jesus in me!
In His name, Amen.

MANAGING MY MOUTH

“He who guards his lips guards his life,
but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.”
(Proverbs 13:3)

Did you know that the average individual speaks enough words in one year to fill 66 books, 800 pages long?  The average man speaks about 15,000 words a day; the average woman speaks about 30,000 words a day.  On an average Sunday, 55 million Americans listen to 400,000 preachers deliver over 1 billion words.  We are a nation of talkers – talk shows, talk-radio, wireless phones, cell pones, chat lines, etc.  Is it any wonder our mouths get us into so much trouble?  We love to talk!

Proverbs has a lot to say about our mouths.  In fact, there are over 120 verses in Proverbs that address some aspect of our speech.  Here are a few examples…

• 12:18 – “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
• 12:19 – “Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.”
• 15:1 – “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
• 15:2 – “The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.”
• 20:19 – “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.”
• 21:23 – “He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.”

How many different ways can you identify that your mouth can get you in trouble?  If we want to avoid the pitfalls that accompany our mouths, we must learn to manage our mouths.  Fortunately, Solomon gives some advice on how to manage my mouth.  Here are four suggestions…

• Think before you speak  (engage your mind before putting your mouth in gear)
• Speak the truth
• Speak in love
• Reprogram your heart

I believe that last suggestion is the most important, because your mouth is only a reflection of your heart.  Jesus said, “For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45).   The best way to manage your mouth is to reprogram your heart with God’s Word.  

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the Bible.  Your Word is truth!
“May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart
be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
In Jesus name, Amen.”

TAMING MY TEMPER

“A fool gives full vent to his anger,
but a wise man keeps himself under control.”
(Proverbs 29:11) 

Alexander the Great, in a fit of rage, struck his favorite general one day and killed his best friend.  He cried out, “I’ve conquered the world, but I can’t even conquer my own soul.”  An uncontrolled temper has brought down many great people throughout history.

The average man loses his temper 6 times per week; the average woman loses her temper 3 times per week.  Men tend to be more physical with their anger; while women tend to be more verbal.

So, is anger a sin?  In Ephesians 4:26 Paul instructs us, “In your anger, do not sin…”  Apparently, anger is not necessarily sinful.  In fact, Jesus got angry a couple times.  He even made a whip and threw some money-changers out of the Temple courts.  But, how you express your anger can be very hurtful or sinful.

Some authors have suggested that everybody tends to be a skunk or a turtle.  If you’re a skunk, when you get angry, you just blow up and spray your anger all over the room.  If you’re a turtle, when you get upset, you withdraw into your shell and stuff all your feelings in.  Both responses are unhealthy and hurtful.  Skunks tend to blow up and hurt other people, while turtles internalize their feelings and hurt themselves.  So a wise person learns how to tame his temper and manage his anger.  Here are five tips from Solomon on anger management from the book of Proverbs… 

• Resolve to control your anger  (29:11)
• Remember the cost  (29:22)
• Reflect before reacting  (17:27)
• Restrain your remarks  (21:23)
• Release your anger appropriately  (15:1) 

Which is better?  Conquering the world or conquering my own soul? 

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for creating me in Your image.
You gave me an intellect with which to know You,
emotions with which to love You,
and a will with which I can choose to follow You.
Give me the desire to know You and love You more and more
and the courage to follow You wholeheartedly.
In Jesus name, Amen.

REDUCING THE STRESS

“An anxious heart weighs a man down…”
(Proverbs 12:25) 

Summer is winding down.  School is starting soon.  So, let’s focus for a couple minutes on the great American pastime.  No; not baseball, apple pie, ice cream, or visiting grandma’s house.  I believe the great American pastime these days is stress!  We don’t really like it, but it’s a game we all play today.  Here are a few symptoms of stress.  How many are you experiencing?

• Decision-making becomes more difficult
• Excessive day-dreaming
• Increased use of cigarettes, alcohol, or prescription drugs
• Thoughts trail off while speaking…or writing…or praying.
• Sudden outbursts of anger or hostility
• Paranoid ideas and mistrust of friends
• You dream of escape all the time

What is stress?  Stress is simply the result of carrying too great of weight!  We do it in many ways, but especially in our schedules and our finances.  We cram as much into our days as we possibly can from the moment we wake up until we go bed at night.  Then, we wake up the next day to do it all over again – and again – and again.  We never build any margin into our days.  We go full-throttle, 24/7/365.

On top of our schedules, we add the stress of finances.  Most Americans are buried in debt with home mortgages, seconds on the house, auto loans, school loans, credit card debt, etc. etc.  Like our schedules, there’s no margin in our budgets, either.  So, whenever the car breaks down or we just want to have an evening out, we pull out a credit card and keep adding to the debt and the stress.

So, I’d like to offer a couple suggestions on reducing stress in the year ahead…

1. Build some margin in your life – in your schedules & in your finances.
2. Focus on your priorities & learn to say “no” – to yourself and to others.
3. Start each day and each week with the Lord.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened (that’s stress), and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  (Matthew 11:28-29)

 Heavenly Father,
You are the God of all comfort and peace.
I come to You now because I am weary and stressed.
May I find strength each day by resting in You.
In Jesus name, Amen.

 

SURVIVING MY SCHEDULE

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.”
(Proverbs 16:9) 

Do you ever wake up in the morning and wonder, “How am I going to get everything done today?”  Do you ever ask yourself at the end of the day, “Where in the world has all my time gone?”  Well, I have an answer for you.  U.S. News & World Report suggested that the average American will spend

- 6 years eating
- 5 years waiting in line
- 4 years doing housework or repairs
- 2 years unsuccessfully returning phone calls
- 1 year looking for misplaced objects
- 8 months opening junk mail
- 6 months sitting at stop lights

And that doesn’t even include the biggies – like sleeping, working, and television.  It’s no wonder we’re so stressed out about our time and our schedules. 

Ah, but technology has come to our rescue.  Right?  We have laptop computers, cell phones, pda’s, blackberries, and all sorts of gadgets to simplify our lives.  Truthfully, technology probably complicates our lives more than it simplifies it.  We just have more to do and we take it with us everywhere we go.  There seems to be no escape.

So, how do we survive our busy and stressful schedules today?  The Bible gives us some very good suggestions.  Here are three…

- Line up your priorities (focus on what’s really important)
- Lighten up your attitude (don’t take yourself so seriously)
- Look up to the Lord (include Sabbath in your life)

You may be thinking, “I don’t have time for Sabbath in my schedule.”  I would suggest just the opposite – you can’t afford to neglect Sabbath.  When you put the Lord first in your life, He will help align the rest of your day!

Heavenly Father,
You are an infinite and eternal God.
But I am finite and limited by time and space.
I confess that in my busyness I have neglected Sabbath.
I want to restore Sabbath in my life and spend more time with You.
I need Your help in ordering my priorities each day.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

HOW SALTY ARE YOU?

“You are the salt of the earth…”
(Matthew 5:13)

Jesus often spoke in metaphors to drive home his point.  “Salt” is one of those word-pictures Jesus used to illustrate the influence and impact of Christians on our society.  There are three distinct uses of salt; each indicating a different way Christians influence the world in which we live.

First, salt was used as a preservative in ancient days.  Before refrigeration, salt was used to preserve food.  It was rubbed into meat and fish to prevent it from spoiling and decaying.  As Christians rub shoulders with other people in society, our righteousness has a preserving factor – preventing further decay and deterioration of our culture.

Second, salt adds flavor to food.  “Pass the salt” is commonly heard at the dinner table, because we don’t like to eat food that tastes bland.  So, to add a little flavor we shake some salt on the food.  Again, as Christians, our very presence adds a little flavor (love, joy, peace, etc.) in society – at home, at work, at school, in our neighborhoods, and in our communities.

And third, salt creates thirst.  I like to eat a few potato chips once-in-a-while, especially while watching football games.  But when I eat chips, I also like to drink a soda with them.  Why?  Because the salt on the chips makes me thirsty.  As Christians, our lives should also make other people thirsty for the One who gives abundant life – Jesus Christ.

How salty are you?

Heavenly Father,
You are the source of life and You give my life meaning and purpose.
You flood my soul with the fruit of Your Holy Spirit – love, joy, and peace.
May my everyday life be a reflection of Your life in me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

HOW BRIGHT ARE YOU?

“You are the light of the world…
Let your light shine before men, that they may see yours good deeds
and praise your Father in heaven.”
(Matthew 5:14-16) 

My grandson, Caleb, loves to go outside on a dark night before bed and look in the sky for various lights; like airplanes, and stars, and especially the moon.  Of course the moon is the brightest light in the night sky, because it’s the closest to earth.  But the moon has no light of its own.  It only reflects the sun’s light. 

The same is true of God’s children.  Jesus said of Himself in John 9:5, “I am the light of the world.”  But in the verse above, He spoke to His disciples and said, “You are the light of the world.” So which is it?  Jesus or His disciples?  Both!  As God’s children, we simply reflect the Son’s light!

In Matthew 5, Jesus first used the metaphor of “salt” to refer to the impact and influence of Christians in society.  Then to drive home the point even further, he used a second metaphor – “light.”  Light has two primary functions.

First, light dispels darkness.  What’s the first thing you do when you walk into a dark room?  You flip on the light switch to turn on some light?  Why?  Because light dispels the darkness in the room and you can see where you’re going and what you’re doing.  As God’s children, we are called to live out our Christian lives in this dark world, and in doing so we essentially dispel darkness.

Second, light guides the way.  Have you ever been camping and have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night?  Of course the outhouse is usually down a trail, through some brush, around a few trees, and over several stumps and boulders.  So you take a lantern or a flashlight with you to guide the way.  As God’s children, we are called to light the path or guide the way for unbelievers to find Jesus Christ.  We are like flashlights, pointing people to Jesus – the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Are you reflecting Jesus’ light in your life and dispelling darkness.  Are you pointing the way for others to find Jesus?  How bright is your light? 

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for giving us Your Son, the Light of the World.
He is the way, the truth, and the life!
May my life reflect Your Son’s light in all I say and do.
Please use me to guide others to Jesus Christ.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

MEET GOD

“As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?”
(Psalm 41:1-2)

When Barb and I were dating (a few years ago), we longed to be with each other whenever we could.  We spent every possible moment together.  During high school, I snuck over to her house after school occasionally. During college, we had a standing date on Mondays (my day off) to spend the afternoon and evening together.  We studied – but at least we were together.  We went out on a date almost every weekend.  When we couldn’t see each other, we talked on the phone.  When one of us was out of town, we wrote letters to each other (this was before cell phones and emails and facebook).  Why?  Because we were in love, and we wanted to get to know each other as personally and intimately as possible. 

You see, there are two essential factors in getting to know someone – time together and communication.  The same is true in our relationship with God.  When you truly love God, you want to get to know Him as intimately as possible.  You will communicate with Him by reading the Bible (God’s love-letter to you) and praying (your phone calls to Him).  And you will long to spend more and more time with God.

Barb and I have been married for over 30 years now, and there is still nothing that I enjoy more than just spending time with my wife.  Why?  We’re still in love.  Unfortunately, some days we’re lucky to get in a “good morning” and a “good night.”  There are many distractions in life – work, church, family, friends, television, etc.  They’re all good things, but they often keep us from what we enjoy most – each other.  Unfortunately, there are many things in life that distract us from spending time with God, as well.

Are you in love with God?  Does your soul pant for Him?  Do you long to spend time with Jesus?  I encourage you to find some time and a place to meet God every day!  Just spend time with Him! 

Heavenly Father,
I admit there are many distractions in life that keep me from You.
But, my soul pants for You, O God.
Please show me when and where
I can spend more time with You on a daily basis.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

FOLLOW JESUS

“If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself
and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
(Luke 9:23)

Webster’s Dictionary gives 22 different definitions for the word, “follow.”  Here are the three that I believe best explain the meaning of “following Jesus.”

• to accept as a guide or leader
• to conform, comply with, or  obey
• to imitate or copy

Caleb is my 2½ year old grandson.  At this stage in his life he is a follower, or a learner.   Caleb loves to get some “tools” and fix things.  He loves to sing.  He loves to water the plants outside at our house.  Caleb also loves to talk and he’s very good at carrying on conversations.  A few weeks ago, he surprised his parents with the word “apparently” out of the blue, and even used it in its proper context (by accident).  Apparently, he had heard his parents or someone use the word and decided he could say it, too.  Caleb is a quick learner because he’s a great imitator.  He sees his dad fixing things around the house and thinks, “I can do that.”  He hears his mom singing and thinks, “I can sing like that.”  He sees his grandma water the plants so he wants to do the same.  He hears other people say big words and decides he can say the same words. He’s a great imitator.

To follow Jesus is obey Him and imitate Him.  After all, as God’s children we’re called “Christians,” right?  And the word “Christian” simply means “Christ-like.”  You and I are “little Christ’s” walking around on earth.  When others see us at work, at home, in the neighborhood, or at church; they should see Jesus in us.  Paul put it this way in Ephesians 5:1 – “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children.”

Caleb is a great imitator of his parents.  Jesus was a reflection of His Father.  Are you a good imitator of Jesus Christ?  When others see you, do they see a reflection of Jesus?

Heavenly Father,
Thank- you for the privilege of being one of your children.
As I journey through this life,
give me the courage and strength to imitate Jesus.
May I be a reflection Jesus Christ in everything I say and do.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

SERVE OTHERS

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others,
faithfully administering God’s grace in it’s various forms.”
(I Peter 4:10) 

Have you ever gone to the mall during the holiday season and watched all the people walking & shopping?  Some are tall, some are short.  Some are big, some are small.  Some have white skin; some have dark skin.  Some have blond hair; some have black hair, red hair, or even green hair.  Some have blue eyes, some have brown eyes.  Some walk fast, some walk slowly.  Every one is different.  No two people are exactly alike, not even identical twins.  God is sure creative, isn’t He?

Just as we have unique physical features, we also have unique emotional and spiritual features.  Your unique shape includes the following blend of special features…

S = Spiritual Gifts
H = Heartbeat (passions)
A = Abilities (talents & skills)
P = Personality
E = Experiences

God made you unique for a reason.  God shaped you for a purpose.  He wants you to use all those gifts, passions, abilities, and life-experiences to serve Him.  And we serve God by serving people around us. Did you see that in the verse above?  As we serve others, we are administering God’s grace to people.  Wow!  You and I are agents of God’s grace.

The Bible describes the church as a body.  As a body, we need every part of the body working together in perfect harmony.  The church is also described as a team.  As a team, we need every player working together in perfect teamwork.  These are just other ways to speak of serving each other!

There is no one else on this planet just like you.  You are a one-of-a kind.  You are God’s masterpiece.  But, you are also a member of a team.  And the team needs you!  We need each other. 

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for my unique s.h.a.p.e.
Help me, Lord, to use my unique-ness to serve others.
Show me, Lord, where I can administer Your grace today.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BRING A FRIEND

“The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him,
‘We have found the Messiah’ (that is, the Christ).
And he brought him to Jesus.”
(John 1:41-42)

I was 25 when we had our first child.  I remember it vividly.  It was a Saturday night.  My uncle was spending the night.  But after he went to bed, we went to the hospital.  Joanna was born on Sunday morning – I believe around 6:00 am.  I was an Associate Pastor at the time, and I was supposed to teach our youth Sunday School class that morning and lead our worship service in church.  I’m sure everyone would have understood if I skipped, but I wasn’t about to pass up the opportunity to announce the birth of my first child.  I was so excited, you couldn’t shut me up.  I had to tell everyone the good news!

Does the word “evangelism” scare you?  Does it make you want to run and hide?  It doesn’t have to.  Think of it as simply sharing the “good news” of Jesus Christ.  When Andrew first met Jesus, he was so excited he ran and told his brother, Peter; and brought him to meet Jesus.  A couple verses later, when Philip met Jesus, he was so excited that he brought his friend, Nate, to meet Jesus.  That’s evangelism.  You don’t have to be a “Billy Graham” or a “preacher” or a “salesman.”  Just invite people to meet Jesus.

Here’s a simple two-fold strategy for outreach we can all practice:  (1) Be a friend, and (2) Bring a friend.  We simply encourage you to invite your friends to come with you to church where they can meet Jesus.  It’s really quite simple…

• Invite them to come
• Invite them to come back
• Invite them to come to Christ

But, it all starts with prayer.  Most of the cell phone companies have a “My Circle” plan or a “Fave Five” plan.  You can call 5 or 10 of your “faves” free, no matter what company they use for their own cell phones.  I encourage you to have a “My Circle” Prayer plan.  You should have at least 5 unchurched friends, family-members, neighbors, co-workers, or acquaintances that you pray for regularly.  Then, look for the right opportunity to invite them to come.  Bring a friend with you to meet Jesus. 

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your gracious gift of eternal life.
Thank you for Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for my sin.
Give me a burden for my circle of unchurched friends
that I might invite them to meet Jesus, too.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

REKINDLING YOUR FIRST LOVE

“..You have forsaken your first love.
Remember the height from which you have fallen!
Repent and do the things you did at first.”
(Revelation 2:4-5)

Do you ever get so busy with all the stuff of life – work, school, kids, appointments, projects, etc. – that you find yourself neglecting your spouse or your kids?  It must be time for a date!  Or a weekend away!  You may need some time to just get re-acquainted; some time to visit; some time to rekindle the spark!

It can happen in your Christian life, too.  Sometimes we get so busy with life – even good things – that we neglect Jesus.  It may be time for a date with Jesus; a night with only Him and no television.  Or, you may even need a weekend away; not for personal pleasure, but to rekindle the spark in your relationship with the Lord.

It can even happen in churches.  Churches can also get so busy with programs, and services, and various ministries that we forsake our first love.  People get so busy “doing” that we neglect just “loving” Jesus. That’s what happened to the church in Ephesus.  So, John relayed three words from the Lord to encourage them to rekindle their first love. 

• Remember – what was it like when you first fell in love with Jesus?
• Repent – change!  Cut out some of the busyness!  Re-evaluate your priorities.
• Repeat – do some of those things you did when you first fell in love!  Start dating again!

Those three words are good advice for a marriage that’s drying up.  But, they’re also great advice when you find your relationship with Jesus going stale?  Is it time to re-kindle your love-relationship with Jesus?

 Heavenly Father,
Forgive me for getting so busy with the stuff of life
that I neglect what’s most important – You!
I need your guidance as I re-evaluate my priorities
and rekindle my love-relationship with You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

WHEN IT’S NOT EASY BEING A CHRISTIAN

“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer…
Be faithful, even to the point of death,
and I will give you the crown of life.”
(Revelation 2:10)

When we think of persecution, we usually think of the early church when Christians were imprisoned, thrown to lions, and beheaded.  Or, we may think of Christians during the Reformation era when many of the Reformers were burned at the stake.  But, persecution is still a reality today.  According to the World Evangelical Alliance, over 200 million Christians in at least 60 countries are denied fundamental human rights today solely because of their faith, and over 175,000 Christians are killed for their faith every year.   This is primarily in Muslim and Communist countries.  But persecution of Christians is on the rise in America today, as well.

When Jesus wrote his postcard to the church of Smyrna in Revelation 2, He identified 4 different forms of persecution…

• Poverty – from Christians losing their jobs because of their faith
• Slander – ridicule, mocking, insults, and false accusations
• Imprisonment
• Death

Granted, in America we may not face imprisonment and death for our faith at this time, but you may suffer persecution on the job (lack of promotions or loss of jobs) and through slander.  Even though tolerance is the politically correct doctrine taught in schools and workplaces today, it just doesn’t seem to apply to Christians.  Our culture is increasingly anti-Christian.  So, how do we endure persecution and suffering for our faith?  Jesus gave two words of encouragement in Revelation 2:10…

(1)   Don’t be fearful! – Keep looking up!  Keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who endured the cross on your behalf!

(2)   Do be faithful! – Keep looking ahead!  Remember, the temporary suffering we endure on earth pales in comparison to the eternal glory awaiting us in heaven.

Heavenly Father,
Thank-you for Jesus who suffered and died on the cross.
I consider it a joy to suffer for His name.
May others see in me the reality of my faith in You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A FROG IN THE KETTLE

“I know where you live – where Satan has his throne.
Yet you remain true to my name…”
(Revelation 2:13) 

I’ve been told that if you place a frog into a pot of boiling water, it will immediately leap out to escape the danger of the hot water.  However, if you place a frog into a kettle of water at room temperature, it will be comfortable with its surroundings and will remain in the water.  Since the frog’s survival instincts are geared to detecting sudden changes, you can now begin to increase the temperature of the water very slowly and the frog will stay content in the water, completely unaware of any danger.  Continue to turn the temperature up until the water is boiling and the poor frog gets cooked – content, but dead.

I wonder how often the same thing happens in our spiritual lives.  We receive Jesus as Savior, start going to church and Bible studies, and settle in to our new environment – content and comfortable.  Then as the world around us changes very gradually, we get sucked in and begin accepting the world’s standards and compromising our own moral and spiritual standards.

The third church of Revelation (Pergamum) had that problem.  They lived in a very pagan society, and somehow got sucked in.  They began accepting Satan’s lies fed to them by the pagan culture in which they lived and they compromised their faith.  So Jesus had some strong words for them.  (Rev. 2:12-17)

Sometimes it’s difficult to discern right from wrong today.  And sometimes it’s very easy to compromise our faith.  Don’t let it happen to you!  Remain true to Jesus’ name.  Here are three steps to remaining true and faithful to Jesus… 

• Read God’s Word – Know the truth & the truth will set you free!
• Recognize Satan’s lies.
• Repent of compromise.

The world around us is changing all the time.  The standards of righteousness are softening gradually and constantly.  Don’t be a frog in the kettle.  Jump out of the kettle and be counted for Jesus Christ!

 Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Word, the Bible.
Because You are absolute Truth, Your Word is truth, as well.
May Your Holy Spirit guide me into the truth of Your Word,
and may Your Word always guide my daily life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BEEF FISHIN’ LATELY?

“’Come follow me,’ Jesus said,
‘and I will make you fishers of men.’”
(Mark 1:17)

When I was young, I loved to go fishing.  I had three favorite fishing spots – the Little Colorado River near Greer, Christopher Creek near Payson, and Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona.  I liked fishing in streams instead of lakes.  In lake-fishing, you throw your hook into the water with a bobber on it; then you just sit and watch the bobber until a fish bites.  I didn’t like just sitting and watching.  I’m too impatient.  Of course, if I had a boat I might have liked lake-fishing better.

But in stream-fishing, I kept on the move.  I liked getting wet and dirty.  I liked getting in the water, walking down the stream and through the brush, looking for the perfect fishing hole.  Sometimes the fish hid out under the rocks; other times they liked the running water.  I usually tried two or three different baits or lures in each spot – salmon eggs, worms, spinners, z-rays, etc.  Then if I got no bites, I went hunting for another fishing hole.  Eventually, I found a spot where the fish were biting.

Jesus has called his disciples – you and me – to be fishers of men.  We need to go where the fish are instead of waiting for the fish to jump out of the lake.  We need to walk down the streams and through the brush in life to look for the fish.  We might even try two or three different baits or lures while fishing. And when they’re not biting, God may want us to look for another fishing hole.

Been fishin’ lately?

 Heavenly Father,
Thank your for calling me to be one of your disciples.
I recognize, Lord, that I am called to be a fisherman.
Give me a genuine burden for the lost.
And give us a passion for our community.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A VETERAN’S DAY ANALOGY

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…”
(Galatians 5:1)

Today (November 11th) is Veterans Day.  This is the day our country honors those men and women who have served in our Armed Forces over the years to protect our liberties and freedoms.

We are indeed grateful for the service and sacrifice of our veterans.  You have given up years of your life to serve our country.  You have put careers and families and dreams on hold.  You have left the comfort and security of home to serve around the world.  Many have fought in horrific wars and witnessed terrible tragedy and death.  Some have been shot and maimed and injured.  Some have suffered emotionally.  And others have been called on to pay the ultimate sacrifice for freedom – their own lives.  To all the men and women who have served to protect our freedom; we say a simple but heartfelt, “Thank-you!”

This day reminds me of another person who paid the ultimate price for freedom.  Jesus fought a spiritual war in Gethsemane and on Calvary against the enemy of our souls.  He paid the ultimate price for you and me. He sacrificed His life for our freedom.  Because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we have…

• freedom from sin & Satan
• freedom from condemnation
• freedom from spiritual death
• freedom from an eternity in hell
• freedom to love and serve God with all our heart

Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice on the cross.  Praise God for our freedom in Christ!

 Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the men and women
who have fought for our freedom in America.
Thank you that Jesus gave His life
to free my soul from sin and condemnation.
May I now use my freedom to freely love and serve You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

YOU ARE BLESSED

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has blessed us in the heavenly realms
with every spiritual blessing.”
(Ephesians 1:3)

We just wrapped up a 9-week series at NMC entitled, “Our Spiritual Blessings,” from Ephesians 1-3.  As God’s children, we are incredibly blessed by God.  With the Thanksgiving holiday approaching this month, I’d like you to take a few moments to review and reflect on all your spiritual blessings in Christ and praise God for His love!

I’ve written these blessings in first person.  I encourage you to read them aloud and just bask in the wonder of God’s amazing grace.  After you’ve reviewed your spiritual blessings in Christ, take a moment to thank God for His love and grace.

• I am chosen by God   (1:4)
• I am adopted as God’s child   (1:5)
• I am redeemed   (1:7)
• I am forgiven   (1:7)
• I am sealed by the Holy Spirit   (1:13)
• I am guaranteed an inheritance in heaven   (1:14)
• I am raised to new life   (2:5)
• I am seated with Christ in heaven   (2:6)
• I am saved by grace   (2:8)
• I am God’s masterpiece  (2:10)
• I am near to God   (2:13)
• I am reconciled to God   (2:16)
• I am at peace with God   (2:17)
• I have access to God   (2:18)
• I am a citizen of God’s Kingdom   (2:19)
• I am a member of God’s household   (2:19)
• I am the temple of God   (2:22)
• I am united in one body – the church   (3:6)

“Now to him who is able
to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to his power that is at work within us,
to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
throughout all generations, forever and ever!  Amen.”
(Ephesians 3:20-21)

GIVE THANKS

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.”
(Psalm 100:4) 

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday:  food, family, and football.  But it’s more than that.  Thanksgiving is a time to praise the Lord for his many blessings in our lives.  Yes, even in the midst of economic woes, there is still plenty to be thankful for.  God is good.  And even through the tough stuff of life, he brings good to His children.  So take some time this week, especially on Thanksgiving Day, to thank God for what He’s doing in your life.

If you’re wondering where to start, here are a few things I’m thankful for.  I’ll even try to stick with the letter “f” to go along with food, family, and football… 

• forgiveness – my salvation in Christ
• family – my wife, children, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and extended family
• fellowship – my church family
• friends – too many to name them all
• freedom – America
• fun & frivolity – life itself
• difficulties (okay, it doesn’t start with “f” but it has 2 “f’s” in it)

Yes, we can even thank God for the difficulties – the trials and tribulations of life.  God uses the tough stuff of life to mold us and shape us and strengthen our faith in Him. 

Now, you take a stab at it.  What are you thankful for?  Don’t worry about your list starting with the letter “f” – just tell God “thanks” for His many blessings in your life! 

 Heavenly Father,
Everything we have is a gift from Your gracious hand.
Thank you for Your many blessings in life.
You are good and Your love endures forever;
Your faithfulness continues through all generations.
Hallelujah!  Praise the Lord!