Are You Ready
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
Psalm 90:12
This past summer, Margaret and I visited the local cemetery and purchased our cemetery plots. Not that we have any immediate plans to use them, but we wanted to spare our children the trouble of having to go through this, when our time does come. It has been an interesting experience, as occasionally we will drive by to show some member of our family where we are going to be buried. Each time we drive by, it makes me think more consciously about the days remaining for me, whether they be few or many, and whether God has fulfilled His purpose for my life, or if there is something else He wants me to do. "The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me." Psalm 138:9 Whatever God's plan is for me, I am comfortable with it, as if His plan for me is complete, I will be overjoyed to again see my loved ones who have gone before me. If He still has more work for me to do, I will also be contented, and I will be as good a servant as I can be to finish whatever else He has in store. These kind of unanswered questions are in no way morbid or negative things to talk about, but rather are realistic and truthful. Unless the Lord returns soon, and takes us in the rapture, we will all physically die and face this future, as only God knows when His plan has been fulfilled for us. We need to keep reminding ourselves that tomorrow is not promised to any of us, and our most important task is to make sure we are ready. Whether God's plan is complete, or whether He has other things for us to do, is irrelevant, as where we will spend our eternity is all that matters.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
It's Not Too Late
It's Not Too Late
"Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope."
1st Thessalonians 4:13
This week I received an e-mail from a cousin in my hometown, asking me to pray for a family member as they were near death, and most likely do not know Jesus. This person has never expressed much interest for God or the Bible, and most likely will die in their sins, and their soul will be lost for all eternity. I asked if anyone had shared the path to salvation with them, and was told that they didn't know what to say, or how to approach them. This is so unfortunate as this could be an excellent opportunity to share Jesus with someone, and save them from hell. It would not be too late to reach this person, and lead them to Christ, if people would only get out of their comfort zones for something this important. If we love the people around us, as God commands us to love them, we should jump at the chance to lead them to Christ, who can give them an eternal life. We cannot prevent their earthly body from dying, but we can give them a better body, and a new life which will last for all eternity, just by sharing Jesus with them. There are no magical words that you need to use, just be yourself, and tell them what accepting Jesus can do for them. Life can be over in an instant, and we don't have a chance to save someone, but in situations like this you must reach out and try to save them. If you let them die without trying to save them, it is much like letting someone die in a raging flood without throwing them a rope. If you really love a person, you will love them enough to tell them about Jesus.
"Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope."
1st Thessalonians 4:13
This week I received an e-mail from a cousin in my hometown, asking me to pray for a family member as they were near death, and most likely do not know Jesus. This person has never expressed much interest for God or the Bible, and most likely will die in their sins, and their soul will be lost for all eternity. I asked if anyone had shared the path to salvation with them, and was told that they didn't know what to say, or how to approach them. This is so unfortunate as this could be an excellent opportunity to share Jesus with someone, and save them from hell. It would not be too late to reach this person, and lead them to Christ, if people would only get out of their comfort zones for something this important. If we love the people around us, as God commands us to love them, we should jump at the chance to lead them to Christ, who can give them an eternal life. We cannot prevent their earthly body from dying, but we can give them a better body, and a new life which will last for all eternity, just by sharing Jesus with them. There are no magical words that you need to use, just be yourself, and tell them what accepting Jesus can do for them. Life can be over in an instant, and we don't have a chance to save someone, but in situations like this you must reach out and try to save them. If you let them die without trying to save them, it is much like letting someone die in a raging flood without throwing them a rope. If you really love a person, you will love them enough to tell them about Jesus.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Spiritual Healing
Spiritual Healing
"The Lord will punish men for all such sins, as we have already told you and warned you."
1st Thessalonians 4:6
Over the past several years, me and my wife have taken turns going to first one doctor after the other, trying to find the answer to various medical issues we were facing. None of these issues, fortunately, have been serious problems, however they have been nagging problems that won't seem to go away on their own. We are fortunate to have good physicians, that many times can help with our medical problems, but what do we do when we have spiritual issues. Almost on a daily basis, I get e-mails from my readers, that are facing spiritual issues in their lives, due to the nagging issues of sin. Many of these people have experienced good times in the past few years, when they were keeping their daily fellowship with God alive, by reading their Bibles and praying. Now, however they have gotten themselves into some bad situations, by making bad decisions and reverting back into their sinful ways. We go to a doctor when we get physically sick, but most don't want to go to God when they get spiritually sick. Most of the time when people are spiritually sick, it is because of sin that has invaded their lives, and made them sick. The problem is, we don't want to stop sinning. We enjoy it. However, sin is at the root of many of the problems people have, as sin can cause financial problems, relationship problems, and even health problems, such as drug and alcohol addictions. If you find yourself dealing with some type of sin, you are spiritually sick, and you need to run to God as fast as you can. You need spiritual healing, from "The Doctor".
"The Lord will punish men for all such sins, as we have already told you and warned you."
1st Thessalonians 4:6
Over the past several years, me and my wife have taken turns going to first one doctor after the other, trying to find the answer to various medical issues we were facing. None of these issues, fortunately, have been serious problems, however they have been nagging problems that won't seem to go away on their own. We are fortunate to have good physicians, that many times can help with our medical problems, but what do we do when we have spiritual issues. Almost on a daily basis, I get e-mails from my readers, that are facing spiritual issues in their lives, due to the nagging issues of sin. Many of these people have experienced good times in the past few years, when they were keeping their daily fellowship with God alive, by reading their Bibles and praying. Now, however they have gotten themselves into some bad situations, by making bad decisions and reverting back into their sinful ways. We go to a doctor when we get physically sick, but most don't want to go to God when they get spiritually sick. Most of the time when people are spiritually sick, it is because of sin that has invaded their lives, and made them sick. The problem is, we don't want to stop sinning. We enjoy it. However, sin is at the root of many of the problems people have, as sin can cause financial problems, relationship problems, and even health problems, such as drug and alcohol addictions. If you find yourself dealing with some type of sin, you are spiritually sick, and you need to run to God as fast as you can. You need spiritual healing, from "The Doctor".
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Give Thanks In All Things
Give Thanks In All Things
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
1st Thessalonians 5:16-18
When I read the scripture above, the words that draw me to it are, "give thanks in all circumstances". In our society today we are focused on the good things in life. We want, want, want and if we don't get our way, or all the things that our hearts desire, we are the first to complain about our situations. When we have sickness, or financial issues, or lose our jobs, or a relationship begins to go sour, we are the first to grumble and complain. However, why does Paul tell us to give thanks in all circumstances, even the bad ones? It is easy to thank God for all the good things He provides, but when we have trials and struggles, God wants us to thank Him for these as well. What we don't realize, is that as painful as the difficulties we are facing may be, God is preparing us for something better in the future. You need to realize that all things, even the bad things in life, are part of God's plan for us. We want things to always be our way, but often our ways are not God's ways, and many times we have difficulties in life to bring us back to God's ways. If God did not close any doors in our paths, we would not end up in the place He wants us to be. If He let us continue on our own paths, and let all the doors swing open everywhere we went, our destinations would be so much different than the one God has planned for us. So if you are going through the fire today, you need to thank God for this, as He is simply preparing you for a better tomorrow, and is setting you on His path. Give thanks in all things.
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
1st Thessalonians 5:16-18
When I read the scripture above, the words that draw me to it are, "give thanks in all circumstances". In our society today we are focused on the good things in life. We want, want, want and if we don't get our way, or all the things that our hearts desire, we are the first to complain about our situations. When we have sickness, or financial issues, or lose our jobs, or a relationship begins to go sour, we are the first to grumble and complain. However, why does Paul tell us to give thanks in all circumstances, even the bad ones? It is easy to thank God for all the good things He provides, but when we have trials and struggles, God wants us to thank Him for these as well. What we don't realize, is that as painful as the difficulties we are facing may be, God is preparing us for something better in the future. You need to realize that all things, even the bad things in life, are part of God's plan for us. We want things to always be our way, but often our ways are not God's ways, and many times we have difficulties in life to bring us back to God's ways. If God did not close any doors in our paths, we would not end up in the place He wants us to be. If He let us continue on our own paths, and let all the doors swing open everywhere we went, our destinations would be so much different than the one God has planned for us. So if you are going through the fire today, you need to thank God for this, as He is simply preparing you for a better tomorrow, and is setting you on His path. Give thanks in all things.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Our World Is Not Different
Our World Is Not Different
"What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted."
Proverbs 10:24
Yesterday, I saw some statistics that indicated that the average family changed jobs every 5 years. When I think back about my ancestors, as I was growing up, no one ever changed jobs. If they were a coal miner, they spent their lives working in the coal mines. If they were a farmer, that is what they did their entire lives. Families also stayed in the same location, usually living in the same house their entire life, going to the same church, and having the same friends. Stability would be the word that would best describe the previous generation. So much has changed in our society today, as nothing seems stable anymore. We change churches at the drop of a hat, we change jobs anytime we think one offers us more money, we move from one house and one area to another, trying to better ourselves. I believe we also see this instability showing up in our commitment to God, as our generation has compromised the Word of God, to suit our own wants and desires. We have taken God's commands, and tried to justify them to fit our needs, forgetting that the Bible has been around for over 2 thousand years, and has never changed. However, our generation has decided that we are different, and the laws of the Bible doesn't apply anymore to our generation. We now justify abortion, homosexuality, the right to abolish prayer from our schools, because we are different, and live in different times. If we continue to defy the word of God, our generation will be the new Sodom and Gomorrah, and will feel the wrath of God's punishment.
"What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted."
Proverbs 10:24
Yesterday, I saw some statistics that indicated that the average family changed jobs every 5 years. When I think back about my ancestors, as I was growing up, no one ever changed jobs. If they were a coal miner, they spent their lives working in the coal mines. If they were a farmer, that is what they did their entire lives. Families also stayed in the same location, usually living in the same house their entire life, going to the same church, and having the same friends. Stability would be the word that would best describe the previous generation. So much has changed in our society today, as nothing seems stable anymore. We change churches at the drop of a hat, we change jobs anytime we think one offers us more money, we move from one house and one area to another, trying to better ourselves. I believe we also see this instability showing up in our commitment to God, as our generation has compromised the Word of God, to suit our own wants and desires. We have taken God's commands, and tried to justify them to fit our needs, forgetting that the Bible has been around for over 2 thousand years, and has never changed. However, our generation has decided that we are different, and the laws of the Bible doesn't apply anymore to our generation. We now justify abortion, homosexuality, the right to abolish prayer from our schools, because we are different, and live in different times. If we continue to defy the word of God, our generation will be the new Sodom and Gomorrah, and will feel the wrath of God's punishment.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Let God Lead You
Let God Lead You
"I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths."
Proverbs 4:11
A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to be part of a revival in our small town. God had been placing this on my heart for over six months that we needed to have a revival, but there were not any doors that opened up. Weeks kept passing, and no doors opened, and even though I tried my best to find a place, nothing was available. I began to get discouraged, as I felt I was letting God down in my inability to get the revival set up. However, just as I was beginning to give up, one morning at a meeting, the director of the local Community Center asked me what I thought about holding a revival at the center. God had opened one door. The next day a cousin of mine, who was a pastor in another small town in Ohio, sent me a message that he felt God was calling him to come to our town and hold a revival. This was the other door that God had now opened for me. God's timing was perfect, although I thought I had let God down, He knew when things were right. I had not understood why God had placed the revival on my heart, or on the heart of the director of the Community Center, or on the heart of my cousin, but God had arranged all this in His time. This has only been the most recent occasion where God acted through me, and others to do His work. I am always amazed to see how God can work in people's lives to fulfill His plans and purposes. We can become discouraged, and sometimes even give up when things don't happen the way we want them to, but in God's timing everything works out.
"I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths."
Proverbs 4:11
A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to be part of a revival in our small town. God had been placing this on my heart for over six months that we needed to have a revival, but there were not any doors that opened up. Weeks kept passing, and no doors opened, and even though I tried my best to find a place, nothing was available. I began to get discouraged, as I felt I was letting God down in my inability to get the revival set up. However, just as I was beginning to give up, one morning at a meeting, the director of the local Community Center asked me what I thought about holding a revival at the center. God had opened one door. The next day a cousin of mine, who was a pastor in another small town in Ohio, sent me a message that he felt God was calling him to come to our town and hold a revival. This was the other door that God had now opened for me. God's timing was perfect, although I thought I had let God down, He knew when things were right. I had not understood why God had placed the revival on my heart, or on the heart of the director of the Community Center, or on the heart of my cousin, but God had arranged all this in His time. This has only been the most recent occasion where God acted through me, and others to do His work. I am always amazed to see how God can work in people's lives to fulfill His plans and purposes. We can become discouraged, and sometimes even give up when things don't happen the way we want them to, but in God's timing everything works out.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Take Time To Share Jesus
Take Time To Share Jesus
"Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped."
Isaiah 35:5
Today, while on my mail route I had a chance to witness for Jesus, and tell someone what Jesus had done in my life for the past 20 years. It has become a passion for me to want to share what Jesus has done in my life with others, and lead them to salvation. Anyone who has read my devotionals for some time, will see in my writings, my passion for sharing my life with others, as I have written the majority of my devotionals, based on my life, and my experiences in getting me to where I am today. I know that for many years after I had accepted Christ as my savior, I was hesitant to share my thoughts with anyone. I am sure many of my co-workers didn't know I was going to church and had accepted Jesus. I wish I could go back and do this part of my life over again, as I would have been proclaiming Jesus to everyone around me. If you know Jesus as your savior, tell everyone around you about Him. There is nothing any more rewarding than to lead someone to salvation. Through my devotionals, I get to hear from many of my readers, who accept Jesus, as they write me very touching e-mails about their situations, and how through my devotionals they have accepted Jesus. Please take the time to share your faith with others around you today. Don't be afraid, embarrassed, or too timid to talk about Jesus to all the people in your life. It can mean life or death to someone you love and care about. The people around you need to know Jesus, and you need to experience the joy in being able to bring someone to know Him.
"Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped."
Isaiah 35:5
Today, while on my mail route I had a chance to witness for Jesus, and tell someone what Jesus had done in my life for the past 20 years. It has become a passion for me to want to share what Jesus has done in my life with others, and lead them to salvation. Anyone who has read my devotionals for some time, will see in my writings, my passion for sharing my life with others, as I have written the majority of my devotionals, based on my life, and my experiences in getting me to where I am today. I know that for many years after I had accepted Christ as my savior, I was hesitant to share my thoughts with anyone. I am sure many of my co-workers didn't know I was going to church and had accepted Jesus. I wish I could go back and do this part of my life over again, as I would have been proclaiming Jesus to everyone around me. If you know Jesus as your savior, tell everyone around you about Him. There is nothing any more rewarding than to lead someone to salvation. Through my devotionals, I get to hear from many of my readers, who accept Jesus, as they write me very touching e-mails about their situations, and how through my devotionals they have accepted Jesus. Please take the time to share your faith with others around you today. Don't be afraid, embarrassed, or too timid to talk about Jesus to all the people in your life. It can mean life or death to someone you love and care about. The people around you need to know Jesus, and you need to experience the joy in being able to bring someone to know Him.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Create Your Own Legacy
Create Your Own Legacy
"Do not say to your neighbor, Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow."
Proverbs 3:28
Today, I want to test your memory. Who were the wealthiest people in the world 5 years ago? Who was the most valuable player in the NBA 5 years ago? Who were the last 5 Nobel Peace prize winners, or the Pulitzer Prize winners? Who were the last 5 winners of the Miss America pageant? The point is that none of us probably remember the most famous, or the best achievers for just the past 5 years. These people were the standouts in their fields, but their fame has already been forgotten, and their accomplishments have already began to fade, and their fame has diminished. Now think about a teacher that may have helped you many years ago during high school or college, during a rough time in your life, or an old friend who stood by you years ago, as you were struggling. You can probably remember someone who had a big influence in your life, as you were growing up. Maybe you had a good friend you just liked to be around as you grew up and played with every day. The lesson I want you to take away from this, is that the people who made a difference in your life, were not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, the most awards, but rather the ones who simply cared about you, and are the ones you still remember. Now take the time, to think about the people around you today, in your job, your school, your neighborhood, and to see if you are making a difference in their life. Will you be the person that they will remember in the future, as being the one that cared about them? Will your legacy be remembered?
"Do not say to your neighbor, Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow."
Proverbs 3:28
Today, I want to test your memory. Who were the wealthiest people in the world 5 years ago? Who was the most valuable player in the NBA 5 years ago? Who were the last 5 Nobel Peace prize winners, or the Pulitzer Prize winners? Who were the last 5 winners of the Miss America pageant? The point is that none of us probably remember the most famous, or the best achievers for just the past 5 years. These people were the standouts in their fields, but their fame has already been forgotten, and their accomplishments have already began to fade, and their fame has diminished. Now think about a teacher that may have helped you many years ago during high school or college, during a rough time in your life, or an old friend who stood by you years ago, as you were struggling. You can probably remember someone who had a big influence in your life, as you were growing up. Maybe you had a good friend you just liked to be around as you grew up and played with every day. The lesson I want you to take away from this, is that the people who made a difference in your life, were not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, the most awards, but rather the ones who simply cared about you, and are the ones you still remember. Now take the time, to think about the people around you today, in your job, your school, your neighborhood, and to see if you are making a difference in their life. Will you be the person that they will remember in the future, as being the one that cared about them? Will your legacy be remembered?
Monday, May 23, 2011
What Is Your Breaking Point
What Is Your Breaking Point
"No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him."
1st John 3:6
Do you think God condones any sin? If you look at the scripture above, and many others like it in the Bible, you would find that God does not approve of any sin, period. There is not one time where God would want you to sin in any way. The Bible tells us that God does not condone any kind of sin. Today, I want to give you something to think about. What if someone came to your house to murder a member of your family, and asked if that person was in? What would you do? Would you lie, or would you tell the truth? This is just one hypothetical question, but I want you to just imagine all the other hypothetical questions where you would probably justify sinning. Most people would probably answer the question above with the answer that they would lie to save the life of their loved one. What if the person didn't want to kill them but only beat them up? Would you still lie, or tell the truth? What if they only wanted to talk bad to them? Would you still lie, or tell the truth? The Bible tells us that under no circumstances should we sin, but man has taken God's commands that we should not sin, and compromised it to the point that we have our own situations where sin is permitted. Once we have taken God's commands and begin to bend the rules, I believe we don't know God, as we have taken God's words and made it to fit our own circumstances. Those who try to excuse the breaking of any of God's moral laws for any reason, is sinning and is not obeying God's commandments.
"No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him."
1st John 3:6
Do you think God condones any sin? If you look at the scripture above, and many others like it in the Bible, you would find that God does not approve of any sin, period. There is not one time where God would want you to sin in any way. The Bible tells us that God does not condone any kind of sin. Today, I want to give you something to think about. What if someone came to your house to murder a member of your family, and asked if that person was in? What would you do? Would you lie, or would you tell the truth? This is just one hypothetical question, but I want you to just imagine all the other hypothetical questions where you would probably justify sinning. Most people would probably answer the question above with the answer that they would lie to save the life of their loved one. What if the person didn't want to kill them but only beat them up? Would you still lie, or tell the truth? What if they only wanted to talk bad to them? Would you still lie, or tell the truth? The Bible tells us that under no circumstances should we sin, but man has taken God's commands that we should not sin, and compromised it to the point that we have our own situations where sin is permitted. Once we have taken God's commands and begin to bend the rules, I believe we don't know God, as we have taken God's words and made it to fit our own circumstances. Those who try to excuse the breaking of any of God's moral laws for any reason, is sinning and is not obeying God's commandments.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
What Is Your Legacy
What Is Your Legacy
"Better a poor man who's walk is blameless, than a fool whose lips are perverse."
Proverbs 19:1
I have been doing family research for almost 30 years, and consider myself to be a pretty good researcher. During this time, I have talked with many family members about what they knew about our common ancestors, trying to get names, dates, and any information they might have about our ancestors. It is rare that these people know who their great grandparents were, much less their great, great grandparents. This is the way it will also be with our great, great grandchildren, as we will be fortunate if they will remember our names. This is how it has been from the beginning of time, as life on this earth is but for a season, and it soon passes away. It is like we never existed, as memories of us will soon pass in a few short generations. The only information anyone will have of you, will be your name on a tombstone in the local cemetery, with a faded birth date and death date. No one will remember your accomplishments, your awards, how much money you had in the bank, the big car you drove, or the big house you lived in, or even how good or bad a person you were, or anything else about you. You will be forgotten, like all the millions of other people who have died before you. So what is the legacy you want to leave behind? The most valuable possession you can leave to family and friends, is your faith in Jesus Christ. This is the only thing you will be able to take with you after you're gone, and is the only thing that can have a lasting impression on your future generations, because you can pass on to them your faith in Jesus.
"Better a poor man who's walk is blameless, than a fool whose lips are perverse."
Proverbs 19:1
I have been doing family research for almost 30 years, and consider myself to be a pretty good researcher. During this time, I have talked with many family members about what they knew about our common ancestors, trying to get names, dates, and any information they might have about our ancestors. It is rare that these people know who their great grandparents were, much less their great, great grandparents. This is the way it will also be with our great, great grandchildren, as we will be fortunate if they will remember our names. This is how it has been from the beginning of time, as life on this earth is but for a season, and it soon passes away. It is like we never existed, as memories of us will soon pass in a few short generations. The only information anyone will have of you, will be your name on a tombstone in the local cemetery, with a faded birth date and death date. No one will remember your accomplishments, your awards, how much money you had in the bank, the big car you drove, or the big house you lived in, or even how good or bad a person you were, or anything else about you. You will be forgotten, like all the millions of other people who have died before you. So what is the legacy you want to leave behind? The most valuable possession you can leave to family and friends, is your faith in Jesus Christ. This is the only thing you will be able to take with you after you're gone, and is the only thing that can have a lasting impression on your future generations, because you can pass on to them your faith in Jesus.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
The Power Of The Tongue
The Power Of The Tongue
"The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
Proverbs 18:21
I have written many devotionals over the years about the power of the tongue. Several years ago, I received this powerful story from a friend, which is a good reminder of just how powerful the tongue is. There was once a boy who had a very bad temper. In order to control his temper, his father gave him a bag of nails and told him that from now on, each time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into their beautiful new white picket fence. The first day the boy drove in thirty-seven nails. Over the next few weeks, he learned to control his anger, and the number of nails he hammered daily gradually decreased. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper, than to go outside and drive those nails into the fence. When he told his father about this, he suggested that the boy now start pulling out a nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. Finally, the day came when the young boy was able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. That evening, the father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, "Son, you have done well, but look at the holes you've made here. Our beautiful fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, to the people you love, they leave deep, ugly holes just like these. It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound will still be there." This simple story tells us just how powerful the tongue is, as once our words are spoken, the result will always be there, no matter how hard we try to take them back, the damage has already been done. Think about your words, and don't ever speak in anger.
"The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
Proverbs 18:21
I have written many devotionals over the years about the power of the tongue. Several years ago, I received this powerful story from a friend, which is a good reminder of just how powerful the tongue is. There was once a boy who had a very bad temper. In order to control his temper, his father gave him a bag of nails and told him that from now on, each time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into their beautiful new white picket fence. The first day the boy drove in thirty-seven nails. Over the next few weeks, he learned to control his anger, and the number of nails he hammered daily gradually decreased. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper, than to go outside and drive those nails into the fence. When he told his father about this, he suggested that the boy now start pulling out a nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. Finally, the day came when the young boy was able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. That evening, the father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, "Son, you have done well, but look at the holes you've made here. Our beautiful fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, to the people you love, they leave deep, ugly holes just like these. It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound will still be there." This simple story tells us just how powerful the tongue is, as once our words are spoken, the result will always be there, no matter how hard we try to take them back, the damage has already been done. Think about your words, and don't ever speak in anger.
Friday, May 20, 2011
A Few Minutes With God
A Few Minutes With God
"It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
Matthew 4:4
Over the years, I have encouraged you to have a quiet time with God each morning, before you begin your day. I realize that you may think that with your busy schedule, you simply don't have enough time to read your Bible, to pray, and just spend a few minutes alone with God. However, you need to take the time, as the time you spend with God each morning, will change your outlook on the rest of the day, and your ability to handle things will go much smoother. Even if you can only start with 5 minutes each morning, read a few verses in your Bible to begin with, and think about them throughout your day, and look for ways to apply them to your life. Write them down on 3X5 cards, and take them with you, if you can't remember them. Refer to them often, and take them personal, and make them part of your day. Also, spend some time in prayer each morning, asking God to give you wisdom and understanding, to make the right choices and decisions, in all you do. Ask Him to give you the strength and power, to resist any temptation from Satan, that will come your way. Your time with God also doesn't have to end when you leave your house, as you can take Him with you on your way to work or school. You can pray while you drive, or in the quiet times during the day, just say "thank you Jesus for everything". Pray for your family, that God will bless them in all that they do, and that they will keep their eyes on Jesus in all things. Just a few minutes each morning with God, will brighten your day.
"It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
Matthew 4:4
Over the years, I have encouraged you to have a quiet time with God each morning, before you begin your day. I realize that you may think that with your busy schedule, you simply don't have enough time to read your Bible, to pray, and just spend a few minutes alone with God. However, you need to take the time, as the time you spend with God each morning, will change your outlook on the rest of the day, and your ability to handle things will go much smoother. Even if you can only start with 5 minutes each morning, read a few verses in your Bible to begin with, and think about them throughout your day, and look for ways to apply them to your life. Write them down on 3X5 cards, and take them with you, if you can't remember them. Refer to them often, and take them personal, and make them part of your day. Also, spend some time in prayer each morning, asking God to give you wisdom and understanding, to make the right choices and decisions, in all you do. Ask Him to give you the strength and power, to resist any temptation from Satan, that will come your way. Your time with God also doesn't have to end when you leave your house, as you can take Him with you on your way to work or school. You can pray while you drive, or in the quiet times during the day, just say "thank you Jesus for everything". Pray for your family, that God will bless them in all that they do, and that they will keep their eyes on Jesus in all things. Just a few minutes each morning with God, will brighten your day.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
What's In Your Heart
What's In Your Heart
"The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction."
Proverbs 16:21
I have written many devotionals over the years about the importance of our speech. The words that we speak through our mouth, is the overflow of what our heart really is like. Out of our heart comes words that can hurt, defame, slander, demoralize, discourage, and show anger for, and against others. Also out of our heart can come words that comfort, encourage, show love, give peace and show caring for others. We need to be careful and guard our hearts, and not store up resentment and anger in them, as sooner or later people will see our true self being revealed. We can hide our real self for only a time, before our inner being will be revealed. I have encountered many people over the years, that have tried to hide behind a mask, to prevent their true inner feelings from showing through. However, eventually their true self is revealed, and their ugliness becomes evident for all to see. Only God knows what is inside each of us. Only He knows our hearts, and our true character. Our character is a defining element of each of our lives. It determines how well we fulfill our destiny, and the plan that God has for us. In order to fulfill God's plan for our lives, we must begin to get our hearts right. This will enable us to have the right thoughts and actions that will be pleasing to God. I would encourage each of you to think about your heart today. and leave you with these thoughts: "Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your legacy."
"The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction."
Proverbs 16:21
I have written many devotionals over the years about the importance of our speech. The words that we speak through our mouth, is the overflow of what our heart really is like. Out of our heart comes words that can hurt, defame, slander, demoralize, discourage, and show anger for, and against others. Also out of our heart can come words that comfort, encourage, show love, give peace and show caring for others. We need to be careful and guard our hearts, and not store up resentment and anger in them, as sooner or later people will see our true self being revealed. We can hide our real self for only a time, before our inner being will be revealed. I have encountered many people over the years, that have tried to hide behind a mask, to prevent their true inner feelings from showing through. However, eventually their true self is revealed, and their ugliness becomes evident for all to see. Only God knows what is inside each of us. Only He knows our hearts, and our true character. Our character is a defining element of each of our lives. It determines how well we fulfill our destiny, and the plan that God has for us. In order to fulfill God's plan for our lives, we must begin to get our hearts right. This will enable us to have the right thoughts and actions that will be pleasing to God. I would encourage each of you to think about your heart today. and leave you with these thoughts: "Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your legacy."
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Use Your Gifts Wisely
Use Your Gifts Wisely
"And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet."
Matthew 10:14
I have spent many hours thinking about this scripture, and during the past 20+ years, I have encountered many people who did not want to hear about Christ. Even though I sometimes would pressure them, to let me talk about Jesus, many would not listen to what I was saying. It is difficult when someone does not want to hear about Jesus, but I have reconciled myself through this scripture and others, to know that I have at least tried my best. When we look at the Bible, we see that Jesus went to places where He was celebrated, instead of where He was tolerated. He did not stay where He was not valued. God gives each of us gifts and talents, and I believe that we must not waste these gifts and talents, when we are not valued. We need to treasure and guard any gift and talent that God has given us. We must remember, that God has prepared others to receive us when we are at the right place. Jesus was unable to do any miracles in certain cities, which did not receive Him. The people doubted, as unbelief was like a cancer in the atmosphere. It stopped Him from releasing His healing power. He taught His disciples to disconnect from any place that did not see their worth. It is foolish to waste your entire life on those who do not celebrate you. Move on, as Jesus did, but plant your seed with those you come into contact with, as later on it may mature. Lord, I ask that you give me the wisdom and discernment to stay where I am valued, and leave the places where I am not valued. Let me use my gifts wisely to honor you.
"And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet."
Matthew 10:14
I have spent many hours thinking about this scripture, and during the past 20+ years, I have encountered many people who did not want to hear about Christ. Even though I sometimes would pressure them, to let me talk about Jesus, many would not listen to what I was saying. It is difficult when someone does not want to hear about Jesus, but I have reconciled myself through this scripture and others, to know that I have at least tried my best. When we look at the Bible, we see that Jesus went to places where He was celebrated, instead of where He was tolerated. He did not stay where He was not valued. God gives each of us gifts and talents, and I believe that we must not waste these gifts and talents, when we are not valued. We need to treasure and guard any gift and talent that God has given us. We must remember, that God has prepared others to receive us when we are at the right place. Jesus was unable to do any miracles in certain cities, which did not receive Him. The people doubted, as unbelief was like a cancer in the atmosphere. It stopped Him from releasing His healing power. He taught His disciples to disconnect from any place that did not see their worth. It is foolish to waste your entire life on those who do not celebrate you. Move on, as Jesus did, but plant your seed with those you come into contact with, as later on it may mature. Lord, I ask that you give me the wisdom and discernment to stay where I am valued, and leave the places where I am not valued. Let me use my gifts wisely to honor you.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Change Your Priorities
Change Your Priorities
"Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding."
Proverbs 3:13
I realize that most people spend the best part of their time, either involved in their work or school, and they need to put forth their best effort, which is important. But, how many times do you come home from your work or school, and are exhausted? You have a spouse, children, family, and friends who are part of your life and need to be nurtured. The fact is, we give our best efforts to our work or school, while the people who we love the most in our life, get the leftovers. When we look at our culture, we see the result of this, as almost half of all marriages today end in divorce. Marriages suffer, because husbands and wives, don't have time for each other, and many are little more than convenient living arrangements. Children suffer, because the parents don't have time to spend with them, teaching them good family values. They get only little bits and pieces of your love. But the most critical person that gets left out in this scenario, is God. He may get only a brief "hello" in the morning, when you wake up, and maybe a short prayer, as your eyes close at night. Today, I want you to change your priorities, by starting your day with God, and spending some quality time with Him. Take some time with your family, before work or school, and have breakfast together, and talk about the day ahead. Then go to work or school, and do the very best job you can. After work, spend the balance of time with your family, eating and playing together, and bonding and sharing your love with them. Then before you close your eyes thank God for everything.
"Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding."
Proverbs 3:13
I realize that most people spend the best part of their time, either involved in their work or school, and they need to put forth their best effort, which is important. But, how many times do you come home from your work or school, and are exhausted? You have a spouse, children, family, and friends who are part of your life and need to be nurtured. The fact is, we give our best efforts to our work or school, while the people who we love the most in our life, get the leftovers. When we look at our culture, we see the result of this, as almost half of all marriages today end in divorce. Marriages suffer, because husbands and wives, don't have time for each other, and many are little more than convenient living arrangements. Children suffer, because the parents don't have time to spend with them, teaching them good family values. They get only little bits and pieces of your love. But the most critical person that gets left out in this scenario, is God. He may get only a brief "hello" in the morning, when you wake up, and maybe a short prayer, as your eyes close at night. Today, I want you to change your priorities, by starting your day with God, and spending some quality time with Him. Take some time with your family, before work or school, and have breakfast together, and talk about the day ahead. Then go to work or school, and do the very best job you can. After work, spend the balance of time with your family, eating and playing together, and bonding and sharing your love with them. Then before you close your eyes thank God for everything.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Rejoicing Will Come
Rejoicing Will Come
"For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."
Psalm 30:5
I know that some of you reading this message today, are facing some trials that we all face along our journey through life. No matter what those trials may be, you have God's promise that He will see you through, and will not let you down. No matter what you are going through, He will never leave you, nor forsake you. As the scripture above says, no matter what the trial you are facing; no matter what the battle in your life may be today, weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing will come in the morning. You may be dealing with health issues, financial problems, problems in your marriage, problems in your school or work, problems with some kind of addiction, or a number of other issues. Remember that God tells us that weeping will remain but for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. It would be nice if we could only snap our fingers, and the pain and hurt would go away, but we can't. You need to remember that God is not going to abandon you in your hour of need, and will be there with you every step of the way. Call out to God today. Praise Him even in the midst of your trials and troubles. Ask Him for your deliverance, and to give you peace and comfort in your distress. God will not abandon you, as He loves you too much to forget about you. You need to understand that God loves you more than you could ever begin to comprehend, You are special to Him. I pray that you will know His peace and comfort in the midst of your trials, and remember that rejoicing will come in the morning.
"For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."
Psalm 30:5
I know that some of you reading this message today, are facing some trials that we all face along our journey through life. No matter what those trials may be, you have God's promise that He will see you through, and will not let you down. No matter what you are going through, He will never leave you, nor forsake you. As the scripture above says, no matter what the trial you are facing; no matter what the battle in your life may be today, weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing will come in the morning. You may be dealing with health issues, financial problems, problems in your marriage, problems in your school or work, problems with some kind of addiction, or a number of other issues. Remember that God tells us that weeping will remain but for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. It would be nice if we could only snap our fingers, and the pain and hurt would go away, but we can't. You need to remember that God is not going to abandon you in your hour of need, and will be there with you every step of the way. Call out to God today. Praise Him even in the midst of your trials and troubles. Ask Him for your deliverance, and to give you peace and comfort in your distress. God will not abandon you, as He loves you too much to forget about you. You need to understand that God loves you more than you could ever begin to comprehend, You are special to Him. I pray that you will know His peace and comfort in the midst of your trials, and remember that rejoicing will come in the morning.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Be Transformed
Be Transformed
"What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things."
Philippians 3:8
This scripture is Paul's personal testimony, and is a model for every believer. It describes his transformation, which began on the road to Damascus, from being self centered to being centered in Christ. This same transformation is one that each of us should experience, when we accept Jesus as our Savior. This transformation will change our priorities, as it did for Paul. It will make the Kingdom of God, our priority. Such things as tithing, praying, helping others, the use of our time, and our values and character, will become different as we draw closer to God. We will begin to see His plan and purpose for our lives. This transformation will give us a new vision about our destination in life. Even though we may have challenges in our path, we must forge ahead. We must not let the setbacks determine the outcome that God has in store for us. When we are transformed we are going to find Godly examples, from spiritual people we come into contact with These people will be further down the road than we are, in their walk with God. They will help us overcome many of the obstacles we may encounter during our journey. One thing we must not forget is our new destination. We must fix our eyes on this destination, and not be deterred or distracted from it. We must decide each day what is important in the eyes of God. We must follow His will and let Him lead and guide us. When we have the Kingdom of God as our focus, our life will truly be transformed.
"What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things."
Philippians 3:8
This scripture is Paul's personal testimony, and is a model for every believer. It describes his transformation, which began on the road to Damascus, from being self centered to being centered in Christ. This same transformation is one that each of us should experience, when we accept Jesus as our Savior. This transformation will change our priorities, as it did for Paul. It will make the Kingdom of God, our priority. Such things as tithing, praying, helping others, the use of our time, and our values and character, will become different as we draw closer to God. We will begin to see His plan and purpose for our lives. This transformation will give us a new vision about our destination in life. Even though we may have challenges in our path, we must forge ahead. We must not let the setbacks determine the outcome that God has in store for us. When we are transformed we are going to find Godly examples, from spiritual people we come into contact with These people will be further down the road than we are, in their walk with God. They will help us overcome many of the obstacles we may encounter during our journey. One thing we must not forget is our new destination. We must fix our eyes on this destination, and not be deterred or distracted from it. We must decide each day what is important in the eyes of God. We must follow His will and let Him lead and guide us. When we have the Kingdom of God as our focus, our life will truly be transformed.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Delight In God Today
Delight In God Today
"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:4
I want to ask you a simple question, "Do you spend time with God each day? The reason I ask you this question, is because throughout the Bible, God tells us that His number one commandment, is to Love Him with all our heart, soul, body and mind. The way we show Him this love, is to spend time with Him each day. The scripture above tells us that if we delight in God, He will give us the desires of our heart. We all have desires, the things that we dream about, the things we crave for, the things that we spend our time working on. God also tells us how we can make these desires become realities. When we seek to know God better, His desires become our desires. When we get closer to God, His will and His plan for our lives becomes much more obvious to us. Our priorities in life begin to change to mesh and blend with what God expects. As we get to know God's will, our eyes become fixed, and focused more on the destination God has for us. We make better decisions as to what is important, and not important in our daily life. The will of God becomes our roadmap, and we plot our course to reach what God has designed for us. When we begin to make God part of our life each day, and delight in Him, things become more clear. Our life becomes more stress free, our problems don't become unbearable, and our burdens become lighter. When we delight in the Lord each day, we have peace in just knowing that He is walking by our side. When we delight in God He watches over us, leads us in the paths we are to follow, and guides us to be the best we can be.
"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:4
I want to ask you a simple question, "Do you spend time with God each day? The reason I ask you this question, is because throughout the Bible, God tells us that His number one commandment, is to Love Him with all our heart, soul, body and mind. The way we show Him this love, is to spend time with Him each day. The scripture above tells us that if we delight in God, He will give us the desires of our heart. We all have desires, the things that we dream about, the things we crave for, the things that we spend our time working on. God also tells us how we can make these desires become realities. When we seek to know God better, His desires become our desires. When we get closer to God, His will and His plan for our lives becomes much more obvious to us. Our priorities in life begin to change to mesh and blend with what God expects. As we get to know God's will, our eyes become fixed, and focused more on the destination God has for us. We make better decisions as to what is important, and not important in our daily life. The will of God becomes our roadmap, and we plot our course to reach what God has designed for us. When we begin to make God part of our life each day, and delight in Him, things become more clear. Our life becomes more stress free, our problems don't become unbearable, and our burdens become lighter. When we delight in the Lord each day, we have peace in just knowing that He is walking by our side. When we delight in God He watches over us, leads us in the paths we are to follow, and guides us to be the best we can be.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
It's Not Too Late
It's Not Too Late
"The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed."
Romans 13:11
As I view the world we live in today, which is in moral decay, I see the coming of the Lord, to not be far away. Things are happening in our society, that indicate that our nation is turning from God, at an alarming rate. This is seen by the facts that the holy institution of marriage is falling apart, as over half of the marriages now end in divorce. We are aborting over 1.2 million babies each year. Prayer and even the mention of God is being taken out of our schools, and in all public places throughout our nation. In other words, our nation is turning their backs on God, in any way they can. This is much like the world had done prior to the time of Noah, when God destroyed all the living on the earth and started anew. We know that God told us that He would not destroy the earth again by a great flood, but tells us that He will come again. This time to take His people, the ones that still believe, to live with Him in Heaven. We do not know the time God will return, but through all indications He gives us in the scriptures, this time is not far away. His prophesies are being fulfilled as we speak. I would encourage each of you to think about your life, and see if you are ready for God's return. Are you ready to stand in front of God and be judged? Would God look upon you with favor, or would He find you unworthy for Heaven? This is not something you need to take lightly, as all your eternity depends upon how God will judge you. It is not too late to ask God for His salvation, and to forgive you for all your sins, and ask Jesus to be your savior. It's not too late.
"The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed."
Romans 13:11
As I view the world we live in today, which is in moral decay, I see the coming of the Lord, to not be far away. Things are happening in our society, that indicate that our nation is turning from God, at an alarming rate. This is seen by the facts that the holy institution of marriage is falling apart, as over half of the marriages now end in divorce. We are aborting over 1.2 million babies each year. Prayer and even the mention of God is being taken out of our schools, and in all public places throughout our nation. In other words, our nation is turning their backs on God, in any way they can. This is much like the world had done prior to the time of Noah, when God destroyed all the living on the earth and started anew. We know that God told us that He would not destroy the earth again by a great flood, but tells us that He will come again. This time to take His people, the ones that still believe, to live with Him in Heaven. We do not know the time God will return, but through all indications He gives us in the scriptures, this time is not far away. His prophesies are being fulfilled as we speak. I would encourage each of you to think about your life, and see if you are ready for God's return. Are you ready to stand in front of God and be judged? Would God look upon you with favor, or would He find you unworthy for Heaven? This is not something you need to take lightly, as all your eternity depends upon how God will judge you. It is not too late to ask God for His salvation, and to forgive you for all your sins, and ask Jesus to be your savior. It's not too late.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
God's Call
God's Call
"But Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it."
Exodus 4:13
I imagine that many of you have had the experience of being called to serve, and had mixed feelings about saying, "yes God, here I am, willing to do your bidding!" When God calls you, and sooner or later God will call you to do minor and major tasks, you have a choice. You can either say "Yes God, here I am" or you can say "No God, find someone else." In the scripture above, God has just called Moses to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt, and his first response was to find someone else to do it. When God again asked Moses to go to Pharaoh, and ask him to free the Israelites, Moses replied, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh" Exodus 3:11. It is certain that Moses was very nervous and unsure about himself, in both of these situations, but God reassured Moses when He said, "I will be with you." Exodus 3:12. As we know Moses accepted God's calling, and led the people of Israel out of Egypt. What is going to be your response, when you hear God calling you to do something for Him? You may feel nervous, as Moses did. You may think that God should choose someone else, but you need to remember that God does not call you, if He isn't going to be with you, just as He was with Moses. God knows all things. He is not going to set you up for failure. If He calls you for anything, it will be accomplished in God's timeframe, and you will not fail. You may not understand why you were chosen, but God does, as it is part of His plan for you. So when God calls you to serve in your church, your place of work, or in any capacity, don't run away from the calling, but accept the call, as God will be with you.
"But Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it."
Exodus 4:13
I imagine that many of you have had the experience of being called to serve, and had mixed feelings about saying, "yes God, here I am, willing to do your bidding!" When God calls you, and sooner or later God will call you to do minor and major tasks, you have a choice. You can either say "Yes God, here I am" or you can say "No God, find someone else." In the scripture above, God has just called Moses to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt, and his first response was to find someone else to do it. When God again asked Moses to go to Pharaoh, and ask him to free the Israelites, Moses replied, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh" Exodus 3:11. It is certain that Moses was very nervous and unsure about himself, in both of these situations, but God reassured Moses when He said, "I will be with you." Exodus 3:12. As we know Moses accepted God's calling, and led the people of Israel out of Egypt. What is going to be your response, when you hear God calling you to do something for Him? You may feel nervous, as Moses did. You may think that God should choose someone else, but you need to remember that God does not call you, if He isn't going to be with you, just as He was with Moses. God knows all things. He is not going to set you up for failure. If He calls you for anything, it will be accomplished in God's timeframe, and you will not fail. You may not understand why you were chosen, but God does, as it is part of His plan for you. So when God calls you to serve in your church, your place of work, or in any capacity, don't run away from the calling, but accept the call, as God will be with you.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Maturity In Christ
"So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God."
Romans 7:4
Is your life bearing fruit for God? There are no short cuts to maturity. It takes years for us to grow to adulthood, and it takes a full season for fruit to mature and ripen. The same is true for the Fruit of the Spirit. The development of Christ, like character cannot be rushed. Spiritual growth, like physical growth, takes time. When you try to ripen fruit quickly, it loses its flavor. Let me give you an example. In America, tomatoes are usually picked unripened so they won't bruise during shipping to the stores. Then, before they are sold, these green tomatoes are sprayed with CO2 gas to turn them red instantly. Gassed tomatoes are edible, but their taste cannot be compared to the flavor of a vine-ripened tomato, that is allowed to mature slowly. All too often, I find Christians who are looking for a quick work of God in their life that will radically change them and their situation. Make no mistake about it, God loves to do quick and sudden things for us, but he uses a different timetable when it comes to what He's doing in us. If maturity is the goal when it comes to natural fruit, it certainly must be when it comes to developing the Fruit of the Spirit. Spiritual maturity takes time. There are no short cuts. The question then must be..."Are we willing for God to do His work "in us" and not just "for us"? We must prepare our heart for an encounter with Heaven. Let's begin to cry out to Him in prayer. "Do your work in me, Oh Lord, not just for me!" This is the fertile heart-soil that will produce Christ like Fruit.
Romans 7:4
Is your life bearing fruit for God? There are no short cuts to maturity. It takes years for us to grow to adulthood, and it takes a full season for fruit to mature and ripen. The same is true for the Fruit of the Spirit. The development of Christ, like character cannot be rushed. Spiritual growth, like physical growth, takes time. When you try to ripen fruit quickly, it loses its flavor. Let me give you an example. In America, tomatoes are usually picked unripened so they won't bruise during shipping to the stores. Then, before they are sold, these green tomatoes are sprayed with CO2 gas to turn them red instantly. Gassed tomatoes are edible, but their taste cannot be compared to the flavor of a vine-ripened tomato, that is allowed to mature slowly. All too often, I find Christians who are looking for a quick work of God in their life that will radically change them and their situation. Make no mistake about it, God loves to do quick and sudden things for us, but he uses a different timetable when it comes to what He's doing in us. If maturity is the goal when it comes to natural fruit, it certainly must be when it comes to developing the Fruit of the Spirit. Spiritual maturity takes time. There are no short cuts. The question then must be..."Are we willing for God to do His work "in us" and not just "for us"? We must prepare our heart for an encounter with Heaven. Let's begin to cry out to Him in prayer. "Do your work in me, Oh Lord, not just for me!" This is the fertile heart-soil that will produce Christ like Fruit.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Accountability To God
Accountability To God
"Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God."
Romans 3:19
At some point all of us are going to be held accountable for all our sins, but what if we were held accountable for them at the time we committed them? Just this afternoon, I witnessed a state patrol officer, with his radar gun, pulling out from a hidden position on the road, and stopping a speeding motorist in front of me. This was an instance of being held accountable immediately, for something that someone had done wrong. What if God also held us accountable for our sins the minute we committed them? Would we become less likely to sin? Would we tell a lie if the minute we told it God spoke to us and judged us? Would our thoughts be the same if the minute we had an evil thought, God was there reprimanding us for it? Would our actions be the same if we passed someone by who needed help, and God was there challenging us? Even though God does not appear in front of us, telling us every time we sin, don't think for a moment that God is not aware of each one of our sins. He is holding us personally accountable for each one of them. There is nothing that we do that escapes the watchful eye of God. He knows our thoughts, our actions and most of all our hearts, and even though He does not judge us each time we commit a sin, all of them will one day be laid at His feet, and we will be held accountable. Now is the time for you to think about your life, your thoughts, your actions, and most of all your hearts, as you will one day be held accountable for all your sins.
"Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God."
Romans 3:19
At some point all of us are going to be held accountable for all our sins, but what if we were held accountable for them at the time we committed them? Just this afternoon, I witnessed a state patrol officer, with his radar gun, pulling out from a hidden position on the road, and stopping a speeding motorist in front of me. This was an instance of being held accountable immediately, for something that someone had done wrong. What if God also held us accountable for our sins the minute we committed them? Would we become less likely to sin? Would we tell a lie if the minute we told it God spoke to us and judged us? Would our thoughts be the same if the minute we had an evil thought, God was there reprimanding us for it? Would our actions be the same if we passed someone by who needed help, and God was there challenging us? Even though God does not appear in front of us, telling us every time we sin, don't think for a moment that God is not aware of each one of our sins. He is holding us personally accountable for each one of them. There is nothing that we do that escapes the watchful eye of God. He knows our thoughts, our actions and most of all our hearts, and even though He does not judge us each time we commit a sin, all of them will one day be laid at His feet, and we will be held accountable. Now is the time for you to think about your life, your thoughts, your actions, and most of all your hearts, as you will one day be held accountable for all your sins.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Be God's Beacon
Be God's Beacon
"Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."
Ephesians 5:15-16
What is your passion in life? It may be sports, it could be music, it could be fishing or hunting, regardless of what you have a passion for, it shows in your daily life, and will quickly become evident to the people around you. As Christians, we need to have a passion for God, and anyone that comes into contact with us, should be able to see this passion demonstrated by our enthusiasm, peace and joy. I have seen so many so called Christians, walk around with a look on their face like they have just lost their best friend. They never smile, complain and grumble constantly, and never seem happy about anything. Then on Sunday morning at church, they are the most bubbly, happy, smiling, friendly and contented people you would ever want to meet. These are your "Sunday morning Christians", who only carry God in their hearts for a few hours each week. I believe that God expects us to carry Him with us all the time, not just on Sunday morning. We need to be very careful how we live, as the above scripture states, and make the most of every opportunity, to demonstrate to others the presence of God in our lives. No one is going to be drawn to someone who is unhappy, complaining, never smiling and looking like they have lost their best friend. This does not show our passion for God. Our passion for our Lord and Savior needs to shine through in every aspect of our life, all during the day. We need to be the beacon of light that draws people to want to be like us, and want what we have. Renew your passion for God today, and be His beacon.
"Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."
Ephesians 5:15-16
What is your passion in life? It may be sports, it could be music, it could be fishing or hunting, regardless of what you have a passion for, it shows in your daily life, and will quickly become evident to the people around you. As Christians, we need to have a passion for God, and anyone that comes into contact with us, should be able to see this passion demonstrated by our enthusiasm, peace and joy. I have seen so many so called Christians, walk around with a look on their face like they have just lost their best friend. They never smile, complain and grumble constantly, and never seem happy about anything. Then on Sunday morning at church, they are the most bubbly, happy, smiling, friendly and contented people you would ever want to meet. These are your "Sunday morning Christians", who only carry God in their hearts for a few hours each week. I believe that God expects us to carry Him with us all the time, not just on Sunday morning. We need to be very careful how we live, as the above scripture states, and make the most of every opportunity, to demonstrate to others the presence of God in our lives. No one is going to be drawn to someone who is unhappy, complaining, never smiling and looking like they have lost their best friend. This does not show our passion for God. Our passion for our Lord and Savior needs to shine through in every aspect of our life, all during the day. We need to be the beacon of light that draws people to want to be like us, and want what we have. Renew your passion for God today, and be His beacon.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Stand Firm
Stand Firm
"Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
Ephesians 6:11
When I read the scripture above, it reminds me that we must be careful to stand firm against the devil's evil schemes, which has pervaded our society. It is easy for even Christians to get their values out of focus in their daily lives. Many good, saved, churchgoing people get caught up in the things of this world, because they have allowed the temporary, short-term allure of sin to capture their mind. They have focused on the things of this world, instead of on the things of God. I have talked many times of how it is easy to begin to compromise our values, and when we begin to compromise them, it is difficult to stop. Once we begin to do things that God does not condone, and begin to sin, we become accustomed to sinning, and it becomes a natural daily occurrence. A good example, is we may begin to tell a white lie to hide something we have done, or even to not offend someone. When we begin to do this day after day, these so called innocent white lies become a habit, and are used to withhold the truth of whatever the situation really is. The truth is that this is still a sin, and we are only playing into the hands of Satan. The world's goal is to be politically correct, and not to offend anyone, but the truth in God's Word is highly offensive to many, because it lays out clearly what is right and wrong. I would challenge each of you today, to consider if you are more concerned with pleasing the world or pleasing God? It is so important for you to keep your focus on God, and not get distracted by the things of this world. There is no compromise in God's word and His commands; "stand firm".
"Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
Ephesians 6:11
When I read the scripture above, it reminds me that we must be careful to stand firm against the devil's evil schemes, which has pervaded our society. It is easy for even Christians to get their values out of focus in their daily lives. Many good, saved, churchgoing people get caught up in the things of this world, because they have allowed the temporary, short-term allure of sin to capture their mind. They have focused on the things of this world, instead of on the things of God. I have talked many times of how it is easy to begin to compromise our values, and when we begin to compromise them, it is difficult to stop. Once we begin to do things that God does not condone, and begin to sin, we become accustomed to sinning, and it becomes a natural daily occurrence. A good example, is we may begin to tell a white lie to hide something we have done, or even to not offend someone. When we begin to do this day after day, these so called innocent white lies become a habit, and are used to withhold the truth of whatever the situation really is. The truth is that this is still a sin, and we are only playing into the hands of Satan. The world's goal is to be politically correct, and not to offend anyone, but the truth in God's Word is highly offensive to many, because it lays out clearly what is right and wrong. I would challenge each of you today, to consider if you are more concerned with pleasing the world or pleasing God? It is so important for you to keep your focus on God, and not get distracted by the things of this world. There is no compromise in God's word and His commands; "stand firm".
Friday, May 6, 2011
Don't Be Deceived
Don't Be Deceived
"I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the teachings, just as I passed them on to you."
1st Corinthians 11:2
Today, I heard a pastor preach his Sunday morning sermon about God's plan for marriage. Even though the message may have been valuable to some couples that were having problems in their marriages, I was disturbed to see just how much the humanistic value system is replacing the Bible's commands on this most sacred union. We find the word, "appreciate" your spouse instead of, "respect" and "love", being used to describe the relationship between a husband and wife. Instead of teaching the importance of God's presence in the family, prayer, creating Godly family values, going to church together, forgiveness and love in the family, the message could have been taken out of any of the modern day humanistic family counseling textbooks. In the Bible, God specifically tells us how the family should function, and the steps necessary to take to have a successful marriage, but the Bible's plan is being replaced by this more secular plan that people want to hear. God's plan for the family has not changed since time began, but our society is coming up with their own plans for how the family is to function, which is getting away from the plan God tells us to follow. The most important element in God's plan for the family is to make Him number one, and when this is taken out, it is no wonder that so many marriages end up in divorce. I would encourage you to be aware of any message that does not follow God's plan. God's plan has been around for all the ages, and will not fail. Don't be deceived by the secular plans of the world, but follow God.
"I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the teachings, just as I passed them on to you."
1st Corinthians 11:2
Today, I heard a pastor preach his Sunday morning sermon about God's plan for marriage. Even though the message may have been valuable to some couples that were having problems in their marriages, I was disturbed to see just how much the humanistic value system is replacing the Bible's commands on this most sacred union. We find the word, "appreciate" your spouse instead of, "respect" and "love", being used to describe the relationship between a husband and wife. Instead of teaching the importance of God's presence in the family, prayer, creating Godly family values, going to church together, forgiveness and love in the family, the message could have been taken out of any of the modern day humanistic family counseling textbooks. In the Bible, God specifically tells us how the family should function, and the steps necessary to take to have a successful marriage, but the Bible's plan is being replaced by this more secular plan that people want to hear. God's plan for the family has not changed since time began, but our society is coming up with their own plans for how the family is to function, which is getting away from the plan God tells us to follow. The most important element in God's plan for the family is to make Him number one, and when this is taken out, it is no wonder that so many marriages end up in divorce. I would encourage you to be aware of any message that does not follow God's plan. God's plan has been around for all the ages, and will not fail. Don't be deceived by the secular plans of the world, but follow God.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
God Is For All Ages
God Is For All Ages
"Great and marvelous are your deeds. Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the ages"
Revelation 15:3
In today's society, we hear many people saying that our culture is different than the one that our forefathers lived in, and that things that pertained to our ancestors do not apply to us. We must never forget that God is King of all the ages. The Bible and its truth has not changed from the time that God created the earth, and the commands that He gave us from the beginning of time has not changed. The same truth that the Bible taught during Jesus' day, still apply to our modern day world. The commands that God gave the people during the Old Testament times, still apply to us. God's plan for salvation is still the same today, as it was yesterday, and will still be tomorrow. It has not changed. A sin is still a sin, just as it was in the time of the Apostles. Nothing has changed. When I hear people say that everything is different now; this is how our society has been brainwashed by the modern day culture, and the watering down of God's Holy Word. My friends, do not be deceived when you hear words that say we are different, and our culture has any special favor in God's eyes, as this is simply Satan spreading his evil through misguided people. God's justice and judgment will apply equally to all ages. The path to having an everlasting life, is still the same as it has always been. The Bible has not changed. Neither has God's commandments changed. The only way to receive the eternal life that God promises, is still through the saving grace that comes when we ask Jesus into our hearts, just as it has been throughout all the ages.
"Great and marvelous are your deeds. Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the ages"
Revelation 15:3
In today's society, we hear many people saying that our culture is different than the one that our forefathers lived in, and that things that pertained to our ancestors do not apply to us. We must never forget that God is King of all the ages. The Bible and its truth has not changed from the time that God created the earth, and the commands that He gave us from the beginning of time has not changed. The same truth that the Bible taught during Jesus' day, still apply to our modern day world. The commands that God gave the people during the Old Testament times, still apply to us. God's plan for salvation is still the same today, as it was yesterday, and will still be tomorrow. It has not changed. A sin is still a sin, just as it was in the time of the Apostles. Nothing has changed. When I hear people say that everything is different now; this is how our society has been brainwashed by the modern day culture, and the watering down of God's Holy Word. My friends, do not be deceived when you hear words that say we are different, and our culture has any special favor in God's eyes, as this is simply Satan spreading his evil through misguided people. God's justice and judgment will apply equally to all ages. The path to having an everlasting life, is still the same as it has always been. The Bible has not changed. Neither has God's commandments changed. The only way to receive the eternal life that God promises, is still through the saving grace that comes when we ask Jesus into our hearts, just as it has been throughout all the ages.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Commit All Your Plans To God
Commit All Your Plans To God
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."
Proverbs 16:3
Over the years I have known people who have made lofty plans for their future, and then work tirelessly during their lives, to make these plans come to fruition. They plan every detail of what they need to do to turn their plans into realities. But just as they see the finish line, everything falls apart; suddenly they find their lives are in shambles, and their lofty plans are never realized. This can happen so easily when God is not part of any plan, as He has established His plan for each of us, and if our plans don't mesh with what He has in store for us, it doesn't matter how hard we work, our plans will never succeed. This is why it is so important for everyone to commit to the Lord whatever you do, and then let God take control and make His plan succeed. You see, God can make anything happen, and any plan succeed, if it is His plan. We must always remember that our time is not God's time, but many times we can become impatient, and not wait for God's timing. The finish line that we see ahead of us, may not be the real finish line, as God may not be ready to let us finish the race. It could be only the beginning, as God may have bigger plans for us. When we commit and turn our lives over to God, only He knows what He has in store for us. There may be many twists and turns that we never planned for, but all of these are building blocks, that are preparing us for the real plan God has in store for us. I would encourage each of you to embrace the scripture above, turn your plans over to God and, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."
Proverbs 16:3
Over the years I have known people who have made lofty plans for their future, and then work tirelessly during their lives, to make these plans come to fruition. They plan every detail of what they need to do to turn their plans into realities. But just as they see the finish line, everything falls apart; suddenly they find their lives are in shambles, and their lofty plans are never realized. This can happen so easily when God is not part of any plan, as He has established His plan for each of us, and if our plans don't mesh with what He has in store for us, it doesn't matter how hard we work, our plans will never succeed. This is why it is so important for everyone to commit to the Lord whatever you do, and then let God take control and make His plan succeed. You see, God can make anything happen, and any plan succeed, if it is His plan. We must always remember that our time is not God's time, but many times we can become impatient, and not wait for God's timing. The finish line that we see ahead of us, may not be the real finish line, as God may not be ready to let us finish the race. It could be only the beginning, as God may have bigger plans for us. When we commit and turn our lives over to God, only He knows what He has in store for us. There may be many twists and turns that we never planned for, but all of these are building blocks, that are preparing us for the real plan God has in store for us. I would encourage each of you to embrace the scripture above, turn your plans over to God and, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Turn From Evil
Turn From Evil
"Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever. For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones."
Psalm 37:27-28
When I read this scripture, I am reminded of the moral decay that is occurring in our nation, and the evil that is surrounding us in our daily lives. We can no longer read our newspaper, or watch the news on television, without seeing evidence of the evil culture we are living in. Each day we kill 3,700 innocent babies through abortion. We see the sanctity of marriage being threatened by the gay rights movement. We see the freedom of prayer being challenged throughout our land. It appears from all the evil and temptation that surrounds us, that Satan is taking control of our great nation, and its people are turning away from God. My friends, we are living in perilous times, as when we begin to compromise our values, and turn from God's teachings, we will be judged harshly. I would encourage each of you to think about this scripture, as it has such a powerful message. We have let Satan run rampant too long. We have let him take control of our lives, and tempted us to do evil. We must begin to take control and get our lives back in order. The Lord loves the just. He will not forsake us, if we surrender our lives to Him and obey His commands. I am asking each of you to think about your walk with God today. Resist the temptations that Satan puts in your path. Today can be the beginning of a new life, if you will simply ask God to lead and direct your path. He will not forsake you, and will not lead you astray. He can help you turn from evil, and will help you resist the temptation of evil that surrounds you. Jesus is your only hope for salvation.
"Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever. For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones."
Psalm 37:27-28
When I read this scripture, I am reminded of the moral decay that is occurring in our nation, and the evil that is surrounding us in our daily lives. We can no longer read our newspaper, or watch the news on television, without seeing evidence of the evil culture we are living in. Each day we kill 3,700 innocent babies through abortion. We see the sanctity of marriage being threatened by the gay rights movement. We see the freedom of prayer being challenged throughout our land. It appears from all the evil and temptation that surrounds us, that Satan is taking control of our great nation, and its people are turning away from God. My friends, we are living in perilous times, as when we begin to compromise our values, and turn from God's teachings, we will be judged harshly. I would encourage each of you to think about this scripture, as it has such a powerful message. We have let Satan run rampant too long. We have let him take control of our lives, and tempted us to do evil. We must begin to take control and get our lives back in order. The Lord loves the just. He will not forsake us, if we surrender our lives to Him and obey His commands. I am asking each of you to think about your walk with God today. Resist the temptations that Satan puts in your path. Today can be the beginning of a new life, if you will simply ask God to lead and direct your path. He will not forsake you, and will not lead you astray. He can help you turn from evil, and will help you resist the temptation of evil that surrounds you. Jesus is your only hope for salvation.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Nothing Is Impossible With God
Nothing Is Impossible With God
"What is impossible with men is possible with God."
Luke 18:27
Have you ever reached the point where you don't see how the obstacles in your life are going to be overcome? As I counsel with people, I constantly hear them telling me that they don't see any way to overcome the problems they are facing. So often people face health issues, financial problems, relationship issues, drug and alcohol addictions, and a multitude of other problems, that all seem insurmountable and impossible in their eyes, but so often forget that nothing is impossible with God. There is not any problem or situation we will ever face, that is not possible to overcome in God's eyes. I believe that God puts many people through their trials and troubles to get their attention. So often without difficulties people will not think about God. When things are going good, and life is rosy, most people forget about God, but when the thunderclouds roll in, and the winds begin raging in their lives, many people begin to seek God's comfort and help. All of the problems we face during life, are things that God is aware of, and knew we would encounter them even before they came to be. We need to always remember that there is not a health issue that God cannot heal; there is not a financial need that God cannot provide for; there is not a relationship issue that cannot be restored, or any other problem that cannot be solved, as nothing is impossible with God. Whatever problems you are dealing with today, seek God for an answer. Go to Him in prayer, and ask Him to let His will be done in your life. Ask God to lead and guide you in your daily walk, and let His perfect will be fulfilled in your life.
"What is impossible with men is possible with God."
Luke 18:27
Have you ever reached the point where you don't see how the obstacles in your life are going to be overcome? As I counsel with people, I constantly hear them telling me that they don't see any way to overcome the problems they are facing. So often people face health issues, financial problems, relationship issues, drug and alcohol addictions, and a multitude of other problems, that all seem insurmountable and impossible in their eyes, but so often forget that nothing is impossible with God. There is not any problem or situation we will ever face, that is not possible to overcome in God's eyes. I believe that God puts many people through their trials and troubles to get their attention. So often without difficulties people will not think about God. When things are going good, and life is rosy, most people forget about God, but when the thunderclouds roll in, and the winds begin raging in their lives, many people begin to seek God's comfort and help. All of the problems we face during life, are things that God is aware of, and knew we would encounter them even before they came to be. We need to always remember that there is not a health issue that God cannot heal; there is not a financial need that God cannot provide for; there is not a relationship issue that cannot be restored, or any other problem that cannot be solved, as nothing is impossible with God. Whatever problems you are dealing with today, seek God for an answer. Go to Him in prayer, and ask Him to let His will be done in your life. Ask God to lead and guide you in your daily walk, and let His perfect will be fulfilled in your life.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Make God First In Your Life
Make God First In Your Life
"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine."
Proverbs 3:9-10
How often do we as Christians really think of giving God our first fruits? When we get a raise, and think of what we are going to spend the extra money for, do we deduct God's 10% first? When we receive an unexpected check, or get money from an unexpected source, do we take out God's money first, before we spend it? We need to realize that everything we have, and receive in life, is due to God. We should keep the scripture above in mind throughout our lives, always giving our first fruits back to God. When we learn to honor the Lord with our wealth, He tells us that He will bless us with other things, and that our storehouses will be overflowing. When you make out your monthly or annual budgets, you always need to put your tithes and offerings first on your list. This is giving God the first fruits of your earnings. When you make a decision as to what you are going to spend each month, and your budget is tight, don't neglect to pay God first. Even if you have to sacrifice in some other area, always make your tithes and offerings, and honor God. By always making God first in everything, this is the way that you are showing Him that you have put your trust in Him. This is showing Him that He is first in your life. The Bible tells us that God is faithful if we trust in Him, and that He will provide all of our needs, and we honor this trust by giving Him our first fruits. Don't put other priorities and selfish desires in front of God, but always make Him first in your life, and in all you do.
"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine."
Proverbs 3:9-10
How often do we as Christians really think of giving God our first fruits? When we get a raise, and think of what we are going to spend the extra money for, do we deduct God's 10% first? When we receive an unexpected check, or get money from an unexpected source, do we take out God's money first, before we spend it? We need to realize that everything we have, and receive in life, is due to God. We should keep the scripture above in mind throughout our lives, always giving our first fruits back to God. When we learn to honor the Lord with our wealth, He tells us that He will bless us with other things, and that our storehouses will be overflowing. When you make out your monthly or annual budgets, you always need to put your tithes and offerings first on your list. This is giving God the first fruits of your earnings. When you make a decision as to what you are going to spend each month, and your budget is tight, don't neglect to pay God first. Even if you have to sacrifice in some other area, always make your tithes and offerings, and honor God. By always making God first in everything, this is the way that you are showing Him that you have put your trust in Him. This is showing Him that He is first in your life. The Bible tells us that God is faithful if we trust in Him, and that He will provide all of our needs, and we honor this trust by giving Him our first fruits. Don't put other priorities and selfish desires in front of God, but always make Him first in your life, and in all you do.
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