Today Is The Day
"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
Matthew 25:46
To follow up on the prior devotional, I just read some statistics that stated that about 56 million people will die this year. Breaking this down that is about 155,131 per day and 6,464 that will die each hour. I don't know if these statistics are true, but they make me realize just how fragile our life is. We all have to die, but the ones that know Jesus as their savior will be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and will have an eternal life, in Heaven. All lost people will also die, and they will face a future that also has no end, but they will find themselves in Hell. There are many scriptures in the Bible that describes what Hell will be like, and none of them gives us any desire to be there. Hell is the place of eternal, unending pain, misery and torture. It is a place of darkness so impenetrable that none of the lost will ever see light or relief, which is why it is described as the place where there will be wailing, howling and gnashing of teeth. It is the place where body and soul are tormented, but never consumed by the hellish worms that feed upon them and never die. Nothing will be so horrible about Hell as its endlessness, as is indicated in the scripture above. I hope that all that read this devotional will stop and think for a moment about what Hell will be like, and take the steps necessary to secure your future. There is still time to turn your life around, and ask Jesus into your heart, to keep from going to this awful place. Jesus died on the cross to save you from Hell, so that you don't have to go there. The statistics indicate you may not have much time, don't delay.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Are You Prepared
Are You Prepared
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or hour."
Matthew 25:13
Last fall my wife Margaret fell on some ice in our driveway and broke her shoulder and her hip, and is going to be spending some time in the hospital, before she will be walking again, and having some use of her arm. This is how fragile our life is, as one minute we are fine, and the next minute we are not able to walk and use our arms, to even feed ourselves. Even though her fall on the ice was bad enough, it is not a life threatening event. However, this is how suddenly our life could end, as our newspapers are filled with people having car accidents, heart attacks, strokes and other situations where they had no notice that their lives would suddenly be over. How prepared are we to suddenly have no more tomorrows, should this happen to us? In these situations, we don't have time to even say a last goodbye to our loved ones, or get anything in order, as everything will suddenly come to an end. The Bible tells us that our life on earth is like a fleeting shadow, one minute it is here and the next it is gone. We should live each day like it is our last, and not neglect to tell the people in our lives that we love them, and have all the other aspects of our lives in order, so that we would know that there is nothing left that is not taken care of. We should leave this world with the confidence that we have everything under control, and that nothing is left undone, but most of all we should live each day with the assurance we know where we are going should this life end suddenly. This is why we need to have asked Jesus into our hearts, so that our future is secure.
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or hour."
Matthew 25:13
Last fall my wife Margaret fell on some ice in our driveway and broke her shoulder and her hip, and is going to be spending some time in the hospital, before she will be walking again, and having some use of her arm. This is how fragile our life is, as one minute we are fine, and the next minute we are not able to walk and use our arms, to even feed ourselves. Even though her fall on the ice was bad enough, it is not a life threatening event. However, this is how suddenly our life could end, as our newspapers are filled with people having car accidents, heart attacks, strokes and other situations where they had no notice that their lives would suddenly be over. How prepared are we to suddenly have no more tomorrows, should this happen to us? In these situations, we don't have time to even say a last goodbye to our loved ones, or get anything in order, as everything will suddenly come to an end. The Bible tells us that our life on earth is like a fleeting shadow, one minute it is here and the next it is gone. We should live each day like it is our last, and not neglect to tell the people in our lives that we love them, and have all the other aspects of our lives in order, so that we would know that there is nothing left that is not taken care of. We should leave this world with the confidence that we have everything under control, and that nothing is left undone, but most of all we should live each day with the assurance we know where we are going should this life end suddenly. This is why we need to have asked Jesus into our hearts, so that our future is secure.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A Sin Free Life
A Sin Free Life
"Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness."
2nd Timothy 2:19
It is difficult when you accept Jesus as your savior, to turn away from your sins, but this is what is necessary. So often sin has become such a part of your life, that it has become a habit, and something that just seems natural to do. I believe many new Christians fall into the trap of "grading themselves on the curve", as they rationalize that they are doing better, and although they may not have given up sin completely, they have improved. This thinking, however, is not good enough, as God tells us that we must give up all sin. "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 Even though you have asked Jesus into your heart, there is still sin all around you. You may have to make some big changes in your life to avoid the temptations of sin. You may have to even change friends if they are a hindrance to your new life. You have to avoid sin at all costs, as there is no other option. Don't fall into the trap by just thinking that you have improved or doing better, and that things will be all right as you will continue to improve. "You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness."Romans 6:18 The biggest deterrent to stopping sin in your life is to look at the consequences of sin. Sin will lead you to Hell. "For the wages of sin is death." Romans 6:23 You must avoid sin and put it out of your life completely. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2
"Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness."
2nd Timothy 2:19
It is difficult when you accept Jesus as your savior, to turn away from your sins, but this is what is necessary. So often sin has become such a part of your life, that it has become a habit, and something that just seems natural to do. I believe many new Christians fall into the trap of "grading themselves on the curve", as they rationalize that they are doing better, and although they may not have given up sin completely, they have improved. This thinking, however, is not good enough, as God tells us that we must give up all sin. "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 Even though you have asked Jesus into your heart, there is still sin all around you. You may have to make some big changes in your life to avoid the temptations of sin. You may have to even change friends if they are a hindrance to your new life. You have to avoid sin at all costs, as there is no other option. Don't fall into the trap by just thinking that you have improved or doing better, and that things will be all right as you will continue to improve. "You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness."Romans 6:18 The biggest deterrent to stopping sin in your life is to look at the consequences of sin. Sin will lead you to Hell. "For the wages of sin is death." Romans 6:23 You must avoid sin and put it out of your life completely. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2
Monday, June 27, 2011
The Sin Of Pride
Pride Is A Sin
"You were taught with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desire; to be made new in the attitude of your minds."
Ephesians 4:22-23
So often in life people let their desires get the best of them, and get completely out of hand. We see people today, who have let their desire for food, money, sex, power, and other desires take over their lives and control their thoughts and actions. Many Christians try to cover up their desires, saying "well at least I'm not a drunkard or a dope addict, or some of the more evil desires." Any desire can deceive us and take over our life if we are not on guard at all times. I know that I have battled the desire of pride throughout my life, as I thought that I had the answers for all of life's problems. I now know and understand that this was a sin, as I did not know all things, and should not have had such a high regard for myself. I now know just how little I knew, as it was not me making all the good things happen in my life, but it was God, who was in control. God has shown me just how little I was in control, as I have gotten into a closer relationship with Him. When I began to study and read His Word, the blinders were lifted, and I knew that everything I had done and accomplished in my life was not done through my abilities, but were done by Him watching over me. If any of you that are reading this message today, think that you are in control, and have all the answers to life's problems, you are badly mistaken. It is God that control's everything, and during your life's journey it has been His hand that has been in control of your life.
"You were taught with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desire; to be made new in the attitude of your minds."
Ephesians 4:22-23
So often in life people let their desires get the best of them, and get completely out of hand. We see people today, who have let their desire for food, money, sex, power, and other desires take over their lives and control their thoughts and actions. Many Christians try to cover up their desires, saying "well at least I'm not a drunkard or a dope addict, or some of the more evil desires." Any desire can deceive us and take over our life if we are not on guard at all times. I know that I have battled the desire of pride throughout my life, as I thought that I had the answers for all of life's problems. I now know and understand that this was a sin, as I did not know all things, and should not have had such a high regard for myself. I now know just how little I knew, as it was not me making all the good things happen in my life, but it was God, who was in control. God has shown me just how little I was in control, as I have gotten into a closer relationship with Him. When I began to study and read His Word, the blinders were lifted, and I knew that everything I had done and accomplished in my life was not done through my abilities, but were done by Him watching over me. If any of you that are reading this message today, think that you are in control, and have all the answers to life's problems, you are badly mistaken. It is God that control's everything, and during your life's journey it has been His hand that has been in control of your life.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Everything Is Possible
Everything Is Possible
"Everything is possible for him who believes."
Mark 9:23
This scripture is what Jesus said to the father of the boy with an evil spirit, just before He ordered the evil spirit to come out of him. There are many scriptures throughout the Bible where we are told that if we believe, that anything is possible through God. The Bible even tells us that if we only had faith as small as a mustard seed, we could move mountains. We see miracles being performed throughout the Bible, where people only touched the hem of Jesus' garments and were healed. The disciples performed miracle after miracle because people had faith, and believed enough to be healed of their infirmities. Just like the scripture above states, "Everything is possible for him who believes", and this promise is still alive today. God still does miracles today, and if we believe and have enough faith, our bodies can still be healed, our relationships can still be mended, and all our needs can still be met. God has not forgotten us, but we have forgotten Him, which is why we see very few miracles happening today. When we turn our backs on God, and don't follow His teachings, we can't expect God to answer our prayers and receive His miracles. When we don't make God number one in our lives, and don't even have a few minutes each morning to pray and read our Bibles, God is not going to answer our prayers. If you need a miracle for a health issue, a relationship, a financial need, or some other issue, God is still there, but you must reach out to Him, and make Him number one in your life. Then you must believe and have enough faith to get your miracle, because everything is possible for him who believes.
"Everything is possible for him who believes."
Mark 9:23
This scripture is what Jesus said to the father of the boy with an evil spirit, just before He ordered the evil spirit to come out of him. There are many scriptures throughout the Bible where we are told that if we believe, that anything is possible through God. The Bible even tells us that if we only had faith as small as a mustard seed, we could move mountains. We see miracles being performed throughout the Bible, where people only touched the hem of Jesus' garments and were healed. The disciples performed miracle after miracle because people had faith, and believed enough to be healed of their infirmities. Just like the scripture above states, "Everything is possible for him who believes", and this promise is still alive today. God still does miracles today, and if we believe and have enough faith, our bodies can still be healed, our relationships can still be mended, and all our needs can still be met. God has not forgotten us, but we have forgotten Him, which is why we see very few miracles happening today. When we turn our backs on God, and don't follow His teachings, we can't expect God to answer our prayers and receive His miracles. When we don't make God number one in our lives, and don't even have a few minutes each morning to pray and read our Bibles, God is not going to answer our prayers. If you need a miracle for a health issue, a relationship, a financial need, or some other issue, God is still there, but you must reach out to Him, and make Him number one in your life. Then you must believe and have enough faith to get your miracle, because everything is possible for him who believes.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
You Have A Choice
You Have A Choice
"What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?"
Mark 8:36
In our world today, the possession of wealth is the driving force in the lives of most families. Everyone wants the American Dream of owning a new home, a big car, taking dream vacations, going to the nicest restaurants, having the most up to date wardrobe, and all the other luxuries that money can buy. Fathers and mothers sacrifice their time, as both try to work to make enough money to accommodate a lifestyle that they really can't afford. They struggle with keeping their house and car payments current, and many depend upon credit to sustain their lifestyles. The Bible warns us against letting our money, and the pursuit of it control us, as it can become our gods. It even goes as far as saying that a rich man has as little chance to get to heaven as a camel has to go through the eye of a needle. This is warning us that when our life is focused on wealth and riches of this world, that they are not focused on God, but rather on our wealth. Someday each of you are going to lie in a morgue, and all your wealth, all your money, all your bank accounts are not going to matter anymore as it will not help you get to heaven. When you take your last breath, you will be judged not on the amount of wealth you have accumulated, but on whether you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior. There will be only two destinations that will await you, either Heaven or Hell. In either of these two places you will spend all eternity. Yes, you can spend your life accumulating wealth, but if you forfeit your soul in order to get it, you have made a bad choice.
"What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?"
Mark 8:36
In our world today, the possession of wealth is the driving force in the lives of most families. Everyone wants the American Dream of owning a new home, a big car, taking dream vacations, going to the nicest restaurants, having the most up to date wardrobe, and all the other luxuries that money can buy. Fathers and mothers sacrifice their time, as both try to work to make enough money to accommodate a lifestyle that they really can't afford. They struggle with keeping their house and car payments current, and many depend upon credit to sustain their lifestyles. The Bible warns us against letting our money, and the pursuit of it control us, as it can become our gods. It even goes as far as saying that a rich man has as little chance to get to heaven as a camel has to go through the eye of a needle. This is warning us that when our life is focused on wealth and riches of this world, that they are not focused on God, but rather on our wealth. Someday each of you are going to lie in a morgue, and all your wealth, all your money, all your bank accounts are not going to matter anymore as it will not help you get to heaven. When you take your last breath, you will be judged not on the amount of wealth you have accumulated, but on whether you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior. There will be only two destinations that will await you, either Heaven or Hell. In either of these two places you will spend all eternity. Yes, you can spend your life accumulating wealth, but if you forfeit your soul in order to get it, you have made a bad choice.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Don't Quarrel
Don't Quarrel
"Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out."
Proverbs 17:14
Having grown up in Southeastern Kentucky, I had always heard about the feud between the Hatfield's and the McCoy's. This feud reportedly went on for many generations, and many people were supposedly even killed during this time. After several generations the people who were still feuding had forgotten what started the feud, and were still fighting, simply because their ancestor did. So often this kind of quarreling still goes on in our world today, and many times even a simple little disagreement causes people to overreact, say things in haste, and create a wall, and a barrier between them and often someone they love. There is much scripture in the Bible about being able to forgive and forget, when someone may say or do things to hurt us. God wants us to forgive and forget, and not hold a grudge, or try to retaliate in any way, but to drop the subject and go on with our lives. It does not do any good to keep bringing up subjects that we might disagree on with someone, but rather we should agree to disagree and move on. We should never harbor ill feelings about someone because of any disagreement, but we should pray that God will give both of us wisdom and guidance in dealing with any form of disagreement that should arise. The Bible tells us to love our enemies, and that we should pray for them, rather than trying to get back at them. The Bible tells us to turn the other cheek when someone does harm to us. As the scripture above states, we should always drop the matter before a dispute breaks out, and not bring it up again.
"Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out."
Proverbs 17:14
Having grown up in Southeastern Kentucky, I had always heard about the feud between the Hatfield's and the McCoy's. This feud reportedly went on for many generations, and many people were supposedly even killed during this time. After several generations the people who were still feuding had forgotten what started the feud, and were still fighting, simply because their ancestor did. So often this kind of quarreling still goes on in our world today, and many times even a simple little disagreement causes people to overreact, say things in haste, and create a wall, and a barrier between them and often someone they love. There is much scripture in the Bible about being able to forgive and forget, when someone may say or do things to hurt us. God wants us to forgive and forget, and not hold a grudge, or try to retaliate in any way, but to drop the subject and go on with our lives. It does not do any good to keep bringing up subjects that we might disagree on with someone, but rather we should agree to disagree and move on. We should never harbor ill feelings about someone because of any disagreement, but we should pray that God will give both of us wisdom and guidance in dealing with any form of disagreement that should arise. The Bible tells us to love our enemies, and that we should pray for them, rather than trying to get back at them. The Bible tells us to turn the other cheek when someone does harm to us. As the scripture above states, we should always drop the matter before a dispute breaks out, and not bring it up again.
Don't Quarrel
Don't Quarrel
"Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out."
Proverbs 17:14
Having grown up in Southeastern Kentucky, I had always heard about the feud between the Hatfield's and the McCoy's. This feud reportedly went on for many generations, and many people were supposedly even killed during this time. After several generations the people who were still feuding had forgotten what started the feud, and were still fighting, simply because their ancestor did. So often this kind of quarreling still goes on in our world today, and many times even a simple little disagreement causes people to overreact, say things in haste, and create a wall, and a barrier between them and often someone they love. There is much scripture in the Bible about being able to forgive and forget, when someone may say or do things to hurt us. God wants us to forgive and forget, and not hold a grudge, or try to retaliate in any way, but to drop the subject and go on with our lives. It does not do any good to keep bringing up subjects that we might disagree on with someone, but rather we should agree to disagree and move on. We should never harbor ill feelings about someone because of any disagreement, but we should pray that God will give both of us wisdom and guidance in dealing with any form of disagreement that should arise. The Bible tells us to love our enemies, and that we should pray for them, rather than trying to get back at them. The Bible tells us to turn the other cheek when someone does harm to us. As the scripture above states, we should always drop the matter before a dispute breaks out, and not bring it up again.
"Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out."
Proverbs 17:14
Having grown up in Southeastern Kentucky, I had always heard about the feud between the Hatfield's and the McCoy's. This feud reportedly went on for many generations, and many people were supposedly even killed during this time. After several generations the people who were still feuding had forgotten what started the feud, and were still fighting, simply because their ancestor did. So often this kind of quarreling still goes on in our world today, and many times even a simple little disagreement causes people to overreact, say things in haste, and create a wall, and a barrier between them and often someone they love. There is much scripture in the Bible about being able to forgive and forget, when someone may say or do things to hurt us. God wants us to forgive and forget, and not hold a grudge, or try to retaliate in any way, but to drop the subject and go on with our lives. It does not do any good to keep bringing up subjects that we might disagree on with someone, but rather we should agree to disagree and move on. We should never harbor ill feelings about someone because of any disagreement, but we should pray that God will give both of us wisdom and guidance in dealing with any form of disagreement that should arise. The Bible tells us to love our enemies, and that we should pray for them, rather than trying to get back at them. The Bible tells us to turn the other cheek when someone does harm to us. As the scripture above states, we should always drop the matter before a dispute breaks out, and not bring it up again.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Will You Obey
Will You Obey
"You will not surely die, the serpent said to the woman. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."
Genesis 3:4-5
Over the years when I have read the story of how Eve ate of the apple and brought sin into the world, I have wondered what we would have done, if we were in her place. Even today when we are tempted to do things that we know we should not do, we often give in to the temptation and do bad things. We know much more than Eve knew, as we know what the consequences of sin are now, and know that we should not commit any sin. Eve did not know all the consequences; she only was told what not to do. God was not telling her the consequences of what sin would do, but only told her not to eat the apple. I believe this is what still goes on in our lives today, as God does not tell us all the things that will or will not happen in our lives, as He still wants us to trust Him for all things. God could tell us not to go in debt for that new car or new house, but He doesn't. We then go ahead and buy them, and then lose our jobs, and soon after our house and car are repossessed. God could have told us this in advance, and we would not have been in this position, but He didn't. God could have told Eve what all the consequences of eating the apple were, but He didn't. The message we need to get from the story of Eve, is that God doesn't always tell us the consequences of what our actions are, because He wants us to trust Him. He says that He will provide all our needs, and we need to have faith that He knows what is best for us.
"You will not surely die, the serpent said to the woman. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."
Genesis 3:4-5
Over the years when I have read the story of how Eve ate of the apple and brought sin into the world, I have wondered what we would have done, if we were in her place. Even today when we are tempted to do things that we know we should not do, we often give in to the temptation and do bad things. We know much more than Eve knew, as we know what the consequences of sin are now, and know that we should not commit any sin. Eve did not know all the consequences; she only was told what not to do. God was not telling her the consequences of what sin would do, but only told her not to eat the apple. I believe this is what still goes on in our lives today, as God does not tell us all the things that will or will not happen in our lives, as He still wants us to trust Him for all things. God could tell us not to go in debt for that new car or new house, but He doesn't. We then go ahead and buy them, and then lose our jobs, and soon after our house and car are repossessed. God could have told us this in advance, and we would not have been in this position, but He didn't. God could have told Eve what all the consequences of eating the apple were, but He didn't. The message we need to get from the story of Eve, is that God doesn't always tell us the consequences of what our actions are, because He wants us to trust Him. He says that He will provide all our needs, and we need to have faith that He knows what is best for us.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Pray For Our World
Pray For Our World
"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."
Jeremiah 33:3
As I have developed in my own spiritual walk with God, I have wondered why some Christians experience great and mighty things in their lives, while others do not. The answer lies in the basic fact that some Christians do call on God to help them, while others do not. There are scriptures all throughout our Bibles that tell us that when we call out to God, He really hears us. In scriptures like the one above God gives us reinforcement, that when we call to Him, He hears us, but also that He will answer us. When we call out to God for help in any of the struggles of life, He answers us, and in His Holy Word will give us His wisdom as to how we are to deal with any issue we will face. Every Christian that claims to have a relationship with God needs to call out to Him for problems with their family, their jobs, their health, and any other problems that they face, and God will hear them and give them wisdom. God will also hear us as we pray for our nation, that He will give our leaders wisdom, and will tell them "great and unsearchable things they do not know." If we all cried out to God and ask Him to heal our great nation from its sinful ways, and give us wisdom to correct the things that we are doing wrong, God would hear our cries and answer us. I feel that if God heard the cries from all Christians that He would look at us with compassion and have mercy on us. I pray that God will give each of us a heart for our world, so we can look beyond our own circumstances, and pray that God will tell us great and unsearchable things that can change our world.
"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."
Jeremiah 33:3
As I have developed in my own spiritual walk with God, I have wondered why some Christians experience great and mighty things in their lives, while others do not. The answer lies in the basic fact that some Christians do call on God to help them, while others do not. There are scriptures all throughout our Bibles that tell us that when we call out to God, He really hears us. In scriptures like the one above God gives us reinforcement, that when we call to Him, He hears us, but also that He will answer us. When we call out to God for help in any of the struggles of life, He answers us, and in His Holy Word will give us His wisdom as to how we are to deal with any issue we will face. Every Christian that claims to have a relationship with God needs to call out to Him for problems with their family, their jobs, their health, and any other problems that they face, and God will hear them and give them wisdom. God will also hear us as we pray for our nation, that He will give our leaders wisdom, and will tell them "great and unsearchable things they do not know." If we all cried out to God and ask Him to heal our great nation from its sinful ways, and give us wisdom to correct the things that we are doing wrong, God would hear our cries and answer us. I feel that if God heard the cries from all Christians that He would look at us with compassion and have mercy on us. I pray that God will give each of us a heart for our world, so we can look beyond our own circumstances, and pray that God will tell us great and unsearchable things that can change our world.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
God's Truth Revealed
God's Truth Revealed
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute."
Proverbs 31:8
Over the past several years I have taken a very hard stand on the issue of abortion. My book "The Silent Church" included much information on the increased practice of killing innocent little babies, and the laws that our corrupted government has passed to allow this barbaric act. During the time I was doing research for my book, and writing many of my devotionals on abortion, I found this scripture which reinforced my desire to speak out. Unborn babies are mute and cannot speak for themselves. Babies that die by abortion cannot cry out and defend themselves. This is why we must open our mouths and cry out for them. I knew that when I found this scripture that it was not just enough for me to be "against" abortion, but I must speak out for those that cannot speak for themselves. Abortion is literally destroying human lives, as many of these innocent souls are pulled apart as they are being born, in partial birth abortions. Why does the world participate in such things? It is because the world does not understand what the Word of God says, nor does it respect it. Many times when I have wondered about world issues, God has given me scriptures such as this to open up my understanding. I pray today, that God will also open up your heart to hear His Holy Words, and that you will also begin to speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves. There are also many scriptures throughout your Bibles where God will reveal His wisdom, where key verses will simply leap off the pages and be transformed into a revealed truth, and answer for some situation in your life.
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute."
Proverbs 31:8
Over the past several years I have taken a very hard stand on the issue of abortion. My book "The Silent Church" included much information on the increased practice of killing innocent little babies, and the laws that our corrupted government has passed to allow this barbaric act. During the time I was doing research for my book, and writing many of my devotionals on abortion, I found this scripture which reinforced my desire to speak out. Unborn babies are mute and cannot speak for themselves. Babies that die by abortion cannot cry out and defend themselves. This is why we must open our mouths and cry out for them. I knew that when I found this scripture that it was not just enough for me to be "against" abortion, but I must speak out for those that cannot speak for themselves. Abortion is literally destroying human lives, as many of these innocent souls are pulled apart as they are being born, in partial birth abortions. Why does the world participate in such things? It is because the world does not understand what the Word of God says, nor does it respect it. Many times when I have wondered about world issues, God has given me scriptures such as this to open up my understanding. I pray today, that God will also open up your heart to hear His Holy Words, and that you will also begin to speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves. There are also many scriptures throughout your Bibles where God will reveal His wisdom, where key verses will simply leap off the pages and be transformed into a revealed truth, and answer for some situation in your life.
Monday, June 20, 2011
God Has The Answers
God Has The Answers
"Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted."
Psalm 25:16
It is so easy in life to want to solve all our problems ourselves. I know I have struggled with this throughout my life, as I thought I always had all the answers to anything that would come up. I would not have thought about looking in the Bible for answers to life's problems when I was young, as my ways were always best. In most situations, I was always able to solve most of my problems, as I had a very successful business career with very few problems arising that I couldn't handle. However, much of all the worry, frustration, and many times the self doubt, that I put myself through during all these times, could have been taken away if I had looked at my faith, and my trust in God to help me find the answers. It is not always easy to make decisions on our own, not knowing if they were the right decisions, and then waiting to find out if they really were the right ones. We may think that the Bible is not useful for today's situations, but it really is the answer in almost any area we need to find a solution for. Just the wisdom found in the Book of Proverbs can provide solutions to most of life's problems, and prevent the heartache and problems, that are caused by people making the wrong decisions, by wanting to do things themselves. Most times, we want to look at the natural world for wisdom, as I did, when God's supernatural wisdom, located in our Bibles will answer most of our dilemma's. Just like the scripture above says, "Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted." When you turn to God for answers you will always find them.
"Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted."
Psalm 25:16
It is so easy in life to want to solve all our problems ourselves. I know I have struggled with this throughout my life, as I thought I always had all the answers to anything that would come up. I would not have thought about looking in the Bible for answers to life's problems when I was young, as my ways were always best. In most situations, I was always able to solve most of my problems, as I had a very successful business career with very few problems arising that I couldn't handle. However, much of all the worry, frustration, and many times the self doubt, that I put myself through during all these times, could have been taken away if I had looked at my faith, and my trust in God to help me find the answers. It is not always easy to make decisions on our own, not knowing if they were the right decisions, and then waiting to find out if they really were the right ones. We may think that the Bible is not useful for today's situations, but it really is the answer in almost any area we need to find a solution for. Just the wisdom found in the Book of Proverbs can provide solutions to most of life's problems, and prevent the heartache and problems, that are caused by people making the wrong decisions, by wanting to do things themselves. Most times, we want to look at the natural world for wisdom, as I did, when God's supernatural wisdom, located in our Bibles will answer most of our dilemma's. Just like the scripture above says, "Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted." When you turn to God for answers you will always find them.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
God Guides The Humble
God Guides The Humble
"He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way."
Psalm 25:9
Have you ever had times when you felt you were slipping in your faith and commitment to God? I know I have had many occasions during these past 20 years, where I felt that I was getting farther away from God. Usually these times were happening when I became engrossed in other things in life, and was not spending time with God every day. It is important to commit time to spend with God each day, where you pray and read and study your Bible. If you don't give yourself this time, you will find that you will drift farther and farther away from God. It takes discipline to keep a schedule where you find time for God, but you must realize that this is the most important thing you must have on your schedule. If you keep filling your schedule up with things of the world, and don't have God scheduled you are starting down the road to destruction. Put God first on your schedule, and let all the other things of life fill in the other open spots. Satan wants to fill your schedule with other seemingly important commitments, but don't let this happen. Make God your first priority, and all the other parts of your life will begin to fall into place. I would encourage each of you that when you feel that you are slipping in your faith and your commitment to God, look at the time you have been spending with Him, and put Him first on your schedule, and renew your commitment to Him. When your priorities get straightened out, the other parts of your life will also get straightened out. Let God be part of your life each day, and let Him teach and guide you on the right paths.
"He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way."
Psalm 25:9
Have you ever had times when you felt you were slipping in your faith and commitment to God? I know I have had many occasions during these past 20 years, where I felt that I was getting farther away from God. Usually these times were happening when I became engrossed in other things in life, and was not spending time with God every day. It is important to commit time to spend with God each day, where you pray and read and study your Bible. If you don't give yourself this time, you will find that you will drift farther and farther away from God. It takes discipline to keep a schedule where you find time for God, but you must realize that this is the most important thing you must have on your schedule. If you keep filling your schedule up with things of the world, and don't have God scheduled you are starting down the road to destruction. Put God first on your schedule, and let all the other things of life fill in the other open spots. Satan wants to fill your schedule with other seemingly important commitments, but don't let this happen. Make God your first priority, and all the other parts of your life will begin to fall into place. I would encourage each of you that when you feel that you are slipping in your faith and your commitment to God, look at the time you have been spending with Him, and put Him first on your schedule, and renew your commitment to Him. When your priorities get straightened out, the other parts of your life will also get straightened out. Let God be part of your life each day, and let Him teach and guide you on the right paths.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Doing Battle With Satan
Doing Battle With Satan
"He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son."
Revelation 21:7
I have spent much of my life being an "overcomer". I had a difficult time during my early years, with my speech, as I inherited a stuttering problem from my father. This has haunted me throughout my life, although I have been able to overcome much of it as I have gotten older. I had to overcome being the youngest person in my school, which caused many social problems as I was growing up. I was often the youngest person in administration in my jobs throughout the years, which caused some credibility issues, as people normally don't like taking orders from someone much younger than they are. Life is full of areas where we have to be overcomer's to survive. I know it would be nice to ride through life on a pink cloud with harps playing in the background, but this is not what life is like. We are not in kindergarten as we progress through life; we are in a battle. Satan is attacking us wherever we go, and in whatever we do, as if he can make us feel insecure, worthless, and with no sense of self worth, he has won the battle. But, you have someone that will help you fight your battles, as God does not want you to face your struggles alone, and He will be with you each step of the way, to give you strength, comfort and His peace, as you do battle with Satan. You will all face your own giants, whatever they might be, and you must learn to overcome and defeat them. Do not walk around as defeated Christians, but become victorious Christians. You can become a conqueror, as there is nothing that can keep you from being victorious, when you have Jesus with you.
"He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son."
Revelation 21:7
I have spent much of my life being an "overcomer". I had a difficult time during my early years, with my speech, as I inherited a stuttering problem from my father. This has haunted me throughout my life, although I have been able to overcome much of it as I have gotten older. I had to overcome being the youngest person in my school, which caused many social problems as I was growing up. I was often the youngest person in administration in my jobs throughout the years, which caused some credibility issues, as people normally don't like taking orders from someone much younger than they are. Life is full of areas where we have to be overcomer's to survive. I know it would be nice to ride through life on a pink cloud with harps playing in the background, but this is not what life is like. We are not in kindergarten as we progress through life; we are in a battle. Satan is attacking us wherever we go, and in whatever we do, as if he can make us feel insecure, worthless, and with no sense of self worth, he has won the battle. But, you have someone that will help you fight your battles, as God does not want you to face your struggles alone, and He will be with you each step of the way, to give you strength, comfort and His peace, as you do battle with Satan. You will all face your own giants, whatever they might be, and you must learn to overcome and defeat them. Do not walk around as defeated Christians, but become victorious Christians. You can become a conqueror, as there is nothing that can keep you from being victorious, when you have Jesus with you.
Friday, June 17, 2011
God Knows Your Heart
God Knows Your Heart
"In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."
Matthew 23:28
Over the years I have encountered many people who, once you get to know them personally, are not the people that most people see. These kind of people appear to be upright standing citizens in their jobs, their schools, their neighborhoods and to most people they encounter, but deep down they are mean spirited, bitter, angry, unforgiving and just downright not very nice people. As long as things go their way, and their lives are going good they show their good side, but just let something come up that they do not agree with, or let trouble and trials beset them, their true nature begins to appear. Unfortunately, I believe this describes so many Christians in their own personal relationship with God. As long as everything is going good in their lives, they go to church, pray, and read their Bibles, and act out the life of a good Christian, but the moment that any trial and trouble comes their way, or a situation develops that they do not agree with, they begin to rebel and their true colors come through. They are no longer the nice guys, but become the trouble makers for the people around them. If you find yourself turning into a not so nice person when things don't go your way, or during times of trouble, this is Satan at work in your life. The only cure for this is to run to God, not run away from Him. This is the time for you to build and strengthen your daily relationship with God, instead of turning away from Him God knows your condition, as He knows your heart.
"In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."
Matthew 23:28
Over the years I have encountered many people who, once you get to know them personally, are not the people that most people see. These kind of people appear to be upright standing citizens in their jobs, their schools, their neighborhoods and to most people they encounter, but deep down they are mean spirited, bitter, angry, unforgiving and just downright not very nice people. As long as things go their way, and their lives are going good they show their good side, but just let something come up that they do not agree with, or let trouble and trials beset them, their true nature begins to appear. Unfortunately, I believe this describes so many Christians in their own personal relationship with God. As long as everything is going good in their lives, they go to church, pray, and read their Bibles, and act out the life of a good Christian, but the moment that any trial and trouble comes their way, or a situation develops that they do not agree with, they begin to rebel and their true colors come through. They are no longer the nice guys, but become the trouble makers for the people around them. If you find yourself turning into a not so nice person when things don't go your way, or during times of trouble, this is Satan at work in your life. The only cure for this is to run to God, not run away from Him. This is the time for you to build and strengthen your daily relationship with God, instead of turning away from Him God knows your condition, as He knows your heart.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
A Prodigal Child
A Prodigal Child
"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."
Proverbs 22:6
Today's message is for parents, and to give them encouragement. The most important job God has given you is to lay a spiritual foundation in the lives of your children. I understand that many of you may be diligent in getting your children to church, teaching them to pray, reading the Bible together, and talking to them about Jesus, which is what you need to do. I am sure this is what the father in the story of the prodigal son thought as he had taught his son the best he could, but his son rebelled and went a different way. In our culture today, we are seeing many of the youth rebel, and turn from the way their parents raised them. If you find yourself in this situation, and your children have turned from God, and going their own way, there are several things you must continue to do. Pray continually for them each day that they will turn back to God, like the prodigal son did. Get even closer in your own relationship with God. Have the church, your friends, and your family pray for them. This is the time that you need to be the extreme example of having God in your life. When you interact with your children, they need to see God at all times in you, in all your actions, your behavior, in everything you do. They need to know that you still love them, but that you don't condone the lifestyle they are following. They may continue to rebel, but remember that they are not going to be blessed by God during this rebellious time. They are going to have hardships and trials and troubles, and will at some point want to return to the way they were raised. When they do, welcome them back.
"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."
Proverbs 22:6
Today's message is for parents, and to give them encouragement. The most important job God has given you is to lay a spiritual foundation in the lives of your children. I understand that many of you may be diligent in getting your children to church, teaching them to pray, reading the Bible together, and talking to them about Jesus, which is what you need to do. I am sure this is what the father in the story of the prodigal son thought as he had taught his son the best he could, but his son rebelled and went a different way. In our culture today, we are seeing many of the youth rebel, and turn from the way their parents raised them. If you find yourself in this situation, and your children have turned from God, and going their own way, there are several things you must continue to do. Pray continually for them each day that they will turn back to God, like the prodigal son did. Get even closer in your own relationship with God. Have the church, your friends, and your family pray for them. This is the time that you need to be the extreme example of having God in your life. When you interact with your children, they need to see God at all times in you, in all your actions, your behavior, in everything you do. They need to know that you still love them, but that you don't condone the lifestyle they are following. They may continue to rebel, but remember that they are not going to be blessed by God during this rebellious time. They are going to have hardships and trials and troubles, and will at some point want to return to the way they were raised. When they do, welcome them back.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Stand Firm
Stand Firm
"If I sinned, you would be watching me and would not let my offense go unpunished."
Job 10:14
The story of Job is always the classic example of someone who persevered over the temptation of sin, and who held his ground despite being allowed to suffer tremendously by Satan. There is little doubt that Satan chose Job as the one to attack, because if Job denounced God and cursed Him, this would have a ripple effect on others. If Satan could bring down the most faithful man of God, it would cause many who were not as strong, to lose their faith, and fall as well. We are all going to face trials and tribulations during our lives, as Satan is going to come at us with everything he can muster to get us to sin. We may not all have the patience of Job to withstand Satan's onslaught, but we don't need to succumb easily to all the temptations either. Job, was willing to suffer like no man was willing to suffer during his day, as he was a true man of God, who had the faith and trust that God was there for him. The lesson we need to get from Job is that when we serve God, Satan is going to attack us, and we need to prepare ourselves for these attacks. When you are not worshipping God, you are not a threat, but when you begin to pray, read your Bibles and build a relationship with God, you become a target for Satan, as He wants to tear down this relationship. The further he can get you from God, the harder he can hit you, and the more chance he has of defeating you. If Satan is attacking you today, stand firm in your faith like Job did, don't give in to temptation, but get even closer to God, as He is the only one that can help you withstand Satan's attack.
"If I sinned, you would be watching me and would not let my offense go unpunished."
Job 10:14
The story of Job is always the classic example of someone who persevered over the temptation of sin, and who held his ground despite being allowed to suffer tremendously by Satan. There is little doubt that Satan chose Job as the one to attack, because if Job denounced God and cursed Him, this would have a ripple effect on others. If Satan could bring down the most faithful man of God, it would cause many who were not as strong, to lose their faith, and fall as well. We are all going to face trials and tribulations during our lives, as Satan is going to come at us with everything he can muster to get us to sin. We may not all have the patience of Job to withstand Satan's onslaught, but we don't need to succumb easily to all the temptations either. Job, was willing to suffer like no man was willing to suffer during his day, as he was a true man of God, who had the faith and trust that God was there for him. The lesson we need to get from Job is that when we serve God, Satan is going to attack us, and we need to prepare ourselves for these attacks. When you are not worshipping God, you are not a threat, but when you begin to pray, read your Bibles and build a relationship with God, you become a target for Satan, as He wants to tear down this relationship. The further he can get you from God, the harder he can hit you, and the more chance he has of defeating you. If Satan is attacking you today, stand firm in your faith like Job did, don't give in to temptation, but get even closer to God, as He is the only one that can help you withstand Satan's attack.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
How Do You Treat Others
How Do You Treat Others
"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves."
Romans 12:10
Having worked in administration for over 45 years, I had many important and influential people tell me that certain people in our organizations were losers, and that they would never amount to anything. These kinds of statements always made my hair curl, as I don't consider anyone as a loser. I do not believe anyone that God made is a loser. The mistake that people make is to try to judge others, and when we try to judge them we use our own standards. We need to remember that only God can judge anyone, as only He knows what is in the heart of others. We only see the outside. If we see people as losers, we will treat them as losers, and before long they will act like losers, because of the way we treat them. In the scripture above we are told to treat others with brotherly love, and to honor them above ourselves. If we treat others in this fashion, they will not act like losers, but will before long begin to act like winners. I have had numerous people who worked for me over the years, who were cast as losers by others, suddenly blossom into some of the best managers I have had, simply by treating them with respect, showing them that someone cared for them, and making them feel like winners. We can severely damage others by treating them like losers, or we can change them into becoming winners. God wants you to treat others like winners. Don't judge others, but treat everyone with the same respect. Don't let social status, wealth, race, or anything keep you from judging them, and treating them different. God doesn't make losers, you do.
"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves."
Romans 12:10
Having worked in administration for over 45 years, I had many important and influential people tell me that certain people in our organizations were losers, and that they would never amount to anything. These kinds of statements always made my hair curl, as I don't consider anyone as a loser. I do not believe anyone that God made is a loser. The mistake that people make is to try to judge others, and when we try to judge them we use our own standards. We need to remember that only God can judge anyone, as only He knows what is in the heart of others. We only see the outside. If we see people as losers, we will treat them as losers, and before long they will act like losers, because of the way we treat them. In the scripture above we are told to treat others with brotherly love, and to honor them above ourselves. If we treat others in this fashion, they will not act like losers, but will before long begin to act like winners. I have had numerous people who worked for me over the years, who were cast as losers by others, suddenly blossom into some of the best managers I have had, simply by treating them with respect, showing them that someone cared for them, and making them feel like winners. We can severely damage others by treating them like losers, or we can change them into becoming winners. God wants you to treat others like winners. Don't judge others, but treat everyone with the same respect. Don't let social status, wealth, race, or anything keep you from judging them, and treating them different. God doesn't make losers, you do.
Monday, June 13, 2011
The Power Of Sin
The Power Of Sin
"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak"
Matthew 26:41
Over the years I have written many devotionals about how easy sin can creep into our lives without us knowing it. It is much like people becoming addicted to pain killers, after using them legally under the supervision of a doctor. Or someone becoming an alcoholic, by beginning with just a glass of wine with their dinner. People can become addicted by going with their friends to a casino for a night of fun, and soon have their lives and finances ruined by gambling. In all of these kinds of situations, what seemed like an innocent act, has suddenly erupted into a severe problem that can destroy their health, their marriages, their finances, or even their lives, if not stopped. Sin can grow in your lives, from even the smallest seed, that you allow to be planted. It is much like quicksand, which Satan can use to trap you, as it pulls you in, and you can sink quickly, and the more you engage in it the deeper you sink. If you find that you have slowly fallen into sin, and are sinking deeper and deeper, you need to seek the help of God to rescue you. You need to begin with repentance, and asking God to forgive you. Then you need to fully surrender yourself to God, and submit yourself to His plan for getting you out of your quicksand. God could rescue you immediately, but He could also take the slow way as well, but if you fully surrender yourself to Him, He will rescue you. After God has rescued you, He will then restore you, much like He did Peter, who had denied Jesus three times. Ask God to help you deal with your sin, and let Him pull you to safety.
"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak"
Matthew 26:41
Over the years I have written many devotionals about how easy sin can creep into our lives without us knowing it. It is much like people becoming addicted to pain killers, after using them legally under the supervision of a doctor. Or someone becoming an alcoholic, by beginning with just a glass of wine with their dinner. People can become addicted by going with their friends to a casino for a night of fun, and soon have their lives and finances ruined by gambling. In all of these kinds of situations, what seemed like an innocent act, has suddenly erupted into a severe problem that can destroy their health, their marriages, their finances, or even their lives, if not stopped. Sin can grow in your lives, from even the smallest seed, that you allow to be planted. It is much like quicksand, which Satan can use to trap you, as it pulls you in, and you can sink quickly, and the more you engage in it the deeper you sink. If you find that you have slowly fallen into sin, and are sinking deeper and deeper, you need to seek the help of God to rescue you. You need to begin with repentance, and asking God to forgive you. Then you need to fully surrender yourself to God, and submit yourself to His plan for getting you out of your quicksand. God could rescue you immediately, but He could also take the slow way as well, but if you fully surrender yourself to Him, He will rescue you. After God has rescued you, He will then restore you, much like He did Peter, who had denied Jesus three times. Ask God to help you deal with your sin, and let Him pull you to safety.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
You Are Special
You Are Special
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Romans 12:2
Throughout my business career, I saw hundreds of people who lived below their potential, because they had feelings of inferiority. These were people who had God given talents for encouragement, giving, caring, leadership and many other talents and gifts that could only come from God. So often these people did not use their God given talents and gifts, because they felt inferior to others around them. This was a waste to see people living so far below their potential. God had given them such a gift, and they were burying this precious gift, and keeping it hidden, or using it so sparingly. This is what the Bible tells us in the parable of the talents, when we don't use our gifts and talents, that God is displeased with us. The thing that each of you need to realize is that God made each of you special. There is not another person exactly like you, and there never will be. You are unique, and special in God's eyes, and you should never feel inferior, as God made only one of you. Instead you should always feel good about yourself, and feel special, instead of inferior. It is not God who wants you to feel inferior, but it is Satan that has infiltrated your thoughts and minds, as this is how he will attack you. Satan wants you to feel defeated, weak and inferior, as you will not be the witness for God that you could be. Don't let Satan control your life, but trust God that you are special, unique, and one of a kind. Use your gift and talent to the Glory of God, and let His light shine brightly in you for others to see.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Romans 12:2
Throughout my business career, I saw hundreds of people who lived below their potential, because they had feelings of inferiority. These were people who had God given talents for encouragement, giving, caring, leadership and many other talents and gifts that could only come from God. So often these people did not use their God given talents and gifts, because they felt inferior to others around them. This was a waste to see people living so far below their potential. God had given them such a gift, and they were burying this precious gift, and keeping it hidden, or using it so sparingly. This is what the Bible tells us in the parable of the talents, when we don't use our gifts and talents, that God is displeased with us. The thing that each of you need to realize is that God made each of you special. There is not another person exactly like you, and there never will be. You are unique, and special in God's eyes, and you should never feel inferior, as God made only one of you. Instead you should always feel good about yourself, and feel special, instead of inferior. It is not God who wants you to feel inferior, but it is Satan that has infiltrated your thoughts and minds, as this is how he will attack you. Satan wants you to feel defeated, weak and inferior, as you will not be the witness for God that you could be. Don't let Satan control your life, but trust God that you are special, unique, and one of a kind. Use your gift and talent to the Glory of God, and let His light shine brightly in you for others to see.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Are You Lonely
Are You Lonely
"Hear my prayer, O Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress."
Psalm 102:1-2
With all the busyness of our world, people seem to get involved with so many things and activities in their lives, that it would appear that they would never feel alone. However, I believe that loneliness is a problem that many people face in their everyday lives, even with all the activity that surrounds them. I get many e-mails from my readers stating that they feel all alone many times in dealing with everyday issues, and that others don't seem to care. Sickness, a busy work schedule, moving to a new location, job, or school can bring a feeling of loneliness, as it takes time to build new connections. Often times this will pass as we adjust to the new situations, and the feeling will go away. When our minds start telling us that no one's interested in us, we can build a wall around ourselves, and don't allow people into our lives. The more we withdraw, the worse we feel. Our peace of mind will deteriorate, and loneliness will begin to weigh us down. God never intended us to live disconnected with others, as He told us to love others as we love ourselves. However, when we begin to isolate ourselves, and become reclusive our thoughts become more focused on ourselves, and loneliness will invade our lives. It is important to make others part of your life, as when you get your thoughts off yourself, you are following one of God's great commands. Also, unless you have a personal relationship with God, you will never find true peace, as God will always be the Light that will lead you out of loneliness.
"Hear my prayer, O Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress."
Psalm 102:1-2
With all the busyness of our world, people seem to get involved with so many things and activities in their lives, that it would appear that they would never feel alone. However, I believe that loneliness is a problem that many people face in their everyday lives, even with all the activity that surrounds them. I get many e-mails from my readers stating that they feel all alone many times in dealing with everyday issues, and that others don't seem to care. Sickness, a busy work schedule, moving to a new location, job, or school can bring a feeling of loneliness, as it takes time to build new connections. Often times this will pass as we adjust to the new situations, and the feeling will go away. When our minds start telling us that no one's interested in us, we can build a wall around ourselves, and don't allow people into our lives. The more we withdraw, the worse we feel. Our peace of mind will deteriorate, and loneliness will begin to weigh us down. God never intended us to live disconnected with others, as He told us to love others as we love ourselves. However, when we begin to isolate ourselves, and become reclusive our thoughts become more focused on ourselves, and loneliness will invade our lives. It is important to make others part of your life, as when you get your thoughts off yourself, you are following one of God's great commands. Also, unless you have a personal relationship with God, you will never find true peace, as God will always be the Light that will lead you out of loneliness.
Friday, June 10, 2011
You Are A Conqueror
You Are A Conqueror
"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me--put it into practice."
Philippians 4:9
Each week I receive many e-mails from people who tell me that they have overcome, and conquered many difficult problems in their life. This is wonderful news to hear, as this is the start to each of these people getting their lives back in order and beginning to follow God. The only problem they will now face is to continue to keep these problems from recurring. When many of the problems such as additions of alcohol, drugs, pornography, etc have become part of people's lives it is easy to revert back to these lifestyles. If you find yourself in this position today, where you have overcome these kinds of issues, but you are now having problems trying to stay free of them, please take my advice and don't rely on yourself to handle these temptations. Find someone at your church, or a good Christian counselor to help you deal with this. These kinds of addictions were not acquired overnight, and in most situations will not disappear overnight. Find someone to help walk with you, and be your accountability partner, to provide you support and help. Read your Bible and stay in a close relationship with God each day, to help you withstand the temptations you may have. As you begin to walk out and live the new changes in your life, you need to keep in mind that God has forgiven you of these sins, and that God loves you, and has created you for a positive purpose. He knows what you are facing, and He will be with you every step of the way. "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me--put it into practice."
Philippians 4:9
Each week I receive many e-mails from people who tell me that they have overcome, and conquered many difficult problems in their life. This is wonderful news to hear, as this is the start to each of these people getting their lives back in order and beginning to follow God. The only problem they will now face is to continue to keep these problems from recurring. When many of the problems such as additions of alcohol, drugs, pornography, etc have become part of people's lives it is easy to revert back to these lifestyles. If you find yourself in this position today, where you have overcome these kinds of issues, but you are now having problems trying to stay free of them, please take my advice and don't rely on yourself to handle these temptations. Find someone at your church, or a good Christian counselor to help you deal with this. These kinds of addictions were not acquired overnight, and in most situations will not disappear overnight. Find someone to help walk with you, and be your accountability partner, to provide you support and help. Read your Bible and stay in a close relationship with God each day, to help you withstand the temptations you may have. As you begin to walk out and live the new changes in your life, you need to keep in mind that God has forgiven you of these sins, and that God loves you, and has created you for a positive purpose. He knows what you are facing, and He will be with you every step of the way. "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The Book Of Wisdom
The Book Of Wisdom
"For attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair."
Proverbs 1:2-3
I have always loved the book of Proverbs, and the verses above tell us what this book should teach us, which are all the important things in life. The book of Proverbs, which was largely written by Solomon, is crammed with the best advice it is possible to get, and it is a tragedy that it is not part of our education system, as its advice would be priceless to our youth. It is also such a tragedy that our churches do not spend more time encouraging their congregations, especially new Christians, to dig into the book of proverbs, as it teaches them how to deal with most of the problems our world faces. Every new Christian, should be introduced to the book of Proverbs and led through these scriptures the moment they begin attending church. During these past several years I have led more people to Christ through scriptures in Proverbs than any other book. I know that in my own walk with God, that when I applied the principles of Proverbs, and saw that these wise and witty sayings really worked, it changed my life. The wisdom that I have gotten from Proverbs, has influenced my thinking, and given me the insight into the rest of the Bible, much more than any other book. The book of Proverbs, is the book that will give you the wisdom for living. Many people know how to make a living, but they don't know how to live. If you follow the wisdom Proverbs gives you, and put it into practice every day it will change your life.
"For attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair."
Proverbs 1:2-3
I have always loved the book of Proverbs, and the verses above tell us what this book should teach us, which are all the important things in life. The book of Proverbs, which was largely written by Solomon, is crammed with the best advice it is possible to get, and it is a tragedy that it is not part of our education system, as its advice would be priceless to our youth. It is also such a tragedy that our churches do not spend more time encouraging their congregations, especially new Christians, to dig into the book of proverbs, as it teaches them how to deal with most of the problems our world faces. Every new Christian, should be introduced to the book of Proverbs and led through these scriptures the moment they begin attending church. During these past several years I have led more people to Christ through scriptures in Proverbs than any other book. I know that in my own walk with God, that when I applied the principles of Proverbs, and saw that these wise and witty sayings really worked, it changed my life. The wisdom that I have gotten from Proverbs, has influenced my thinking, and given me the insight into the rest of the Bible, much more than any other book. The book of Proverbs, is the book that will give you the wisdom for living. Many people know how to make a living, but they don't know how to live. If you follow the wisdom Proverbs gives you, and put it into practice every day it will change your life.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Loving Others
Loving Others
"Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart."
1st Peter 1:22
Throughout the Bible, we are taught to love everyone unconditionally, just as God loved us. Today, I want you to think about how you would measure up to what God commands you to do. If you are like most people, it would be easy to love people who were kind to you, respected you and did things that were pleasing to you. However, how do you react to the people who are not kind, who show no respect to you, and do things that anger and annoy you? Do you have the same love for these people as you have for the people who were kind? Jesus clearly teaches us to love, even those around us who seem unlovable. Can you imagine Jesus, as He was being beaten, spit upon and then crucified, loving these people who were brutalizing Him, as much as the others who followed and worshipped Him? Jesus lived out what He taught, as He loved them enough to die for them and their sins. While it's hard to respond to unkindness with love, such godly behavior can lead to great blessings. God will notice when you love others that may sin and not be kind to you, but I believe that others around you will notice also. While unconditional godly love is so uncommon in our world, when it is shown and demonstrated by your actions, people around you will notice. Treating others as we want to be treated is important to us. But being able to love others who do not treat us well, is what really sets us apart, as this is the kind of love that Jesus showed us that day on the cross.
"Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart."
1st Peter 1:22
Throughout the Bible, we are taught to love everyone unconditionally, just as God loved us. Today, I want you to think about how you would measure up to what God commands you to do. If you are like most people, it would be easy to love people who were kind to you, respected you and did things that were pleasing to you. However, how do you react to the people who are not kind, who show no respect to you, and do things that anger and annoy you? Do you have the same love for these people as you have for the people who were kind? Jesus clearly teaches us to love, even those around us who seem unlovable. Can you imagine Jesus, as He was being beaten, spit upon and then crucified, loving these people who were brutalizing Him, as much as the others who followed and worshipped Him? Jesus lived out what He taught, as He loved them enough to die for them and their sins. While it's hard to respond to unkindness with love, such godly behavior can lead to great blessings. God will notice when you love others that may sin and not be kind to you, but I believe that others around you will notice also. While unconditional godly love is so uncommon in our world, when it is shown and demonstrated by your actions, people around you will notice. Treating others as we want to be treated is important to us. But being able to love others who do not treat us well, is what really sets us apart, as this is the kind of love that Jesus showed us that day on the cross.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Your Great Commission
Your Great Commission
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said, Here am I, send me."
Isaiah 6:8
This scripture was one where Isaiah was being commissioned by God, to go to the people of Israel and hold them accountable, because they had rebelled and turned from God. When God is searching in our society today for people to pray, and go out into our world and reach those who don't know Him, will he find you willing to go? A lot of Christians will say, "I'm too timid. I'm afraid of talking to others about Jesus." I believe that the real reason so many people don't respond to God's great commission, to reach out to the world and bring people to salvation, is that they really don't have a passion for bringing people to Jesus. All of these kinds of excuses is just a mask to hide the fact that they don't care. If people have a true passion to bring people to Jesus, they will work through any excuse or obstacle to be a witness. That is not to say that there aren't things we should learn so we can share our faith more effectively, but if the passion is really there, a Christian will go out and do something to overcome any excuse. The bottom line is that sharing our faith isn't really a big deal to most Christians, as they have a passion to share Jesus with unbelievers. If, however, you don't have this passion, you need to get a better relationship with God, so that you will get it. God wants you to be His ambassador, and is calling you to your great commission, just as He did Isaiah. You need to understand that you may make every mistake to be made, but it's better than not doing anything to reach others.
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said, Here am I, send me."
Isaiah 6:8
This scripture was one where Isaiah was being commissioned by God, to go to the people of Israel and hold them accountable, because they had rebelled and turned from God. When God is searching in our society today for people to pray, and go out into our world and reach those who don't know Him, will he find you willing to go? A lot of Christians will say, "I'm too timid. I'm afraid of talking to others about Jesus." I believe that the real reason so many people don't respond to God's great commission, to reach out to the world and bring people to salvation, is that they really don't have a passion for bringing people to Jesus. All of these kinds of excuses is just a mask to hide the fact that they don't care. If people have a true passion to bring people to Jesus, they will work through any excuse or obstacle to be a witness. That is not to say that there aren't things we should learn so we can share our faith more effectively, but if the passion is really there, a Christian will go out and do something to overcome any excuse. The bottom line is that sharing our faith isn't really a big deal to most Christians, as they have a passion to share Jesus with unbelievers. If, however, you don't have this passion, you need to get a better relationship with God, so that you will get it. God wants you to be His ambassador, and is calling you to your great commission, just as He did Isaiah. You need to understand that you may make every mistake to be made, but it's better than not doing anything to reach others.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Avoid False Teachers
Avoid False Teachers
"He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning."
1st John 3:7-8
Over the years I have met several false teachers of the Bible, and seen where these people have been able to influence others around them, and lead them into sinful lifestyles. These people have read and studied the Bible, and know the scriptures very well, but they have skewed and used scriptures out of context to justify their sinful ways. We can see where Satan quoted scripture, and tried to even tempt Jesus. I have also seen organizations use scripture out of context to further their selfish purposes. I have seen false teachers become infiltrated within the church, and occupy leadership positions in evangelical ministries. The apostle Paul, warned, "For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ." 2nd Corinthians 11:13 I'm always amazed at how gullible some people are, and how easily deceived they can be. Just being a wonderful speaker, or a charismatic person, or making a good presentation in front of a crowd, doesn't make what they say right. The most important ingredient of any speech or presentation from a gifted speaker, is to make sure what they are teaching is correct. This is why each of you need to know what the Bible teaches, instead of depending on what others teach. You must gain your own wisdom and understanding about what the Bible says. There will be false teachers everywhere you go, but you must only listen to what God and the Bible says.
"He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning."
1st John 3:7-8
Over the years I have met several false teachers of the Bible, and seen where these people have been able to influence others around them, and lead them into sinful lifestyles. These people have read and studied the Bible, and know the scriptures very well, but they have skewed and used scriptures out of context to justify their sinful ways. We can see where Satan quoted scripture, and tried to even tempt Jesus. I have also seen organizations use scripture out of context to further their selfish purposes. I have seen false teachers become infiltrated within the church, and occupy leadership positions in evangelical ministries. The apostle Paul, warned, "For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ." 2nd Corinthians 11:13 I'm always amazed at how gullible some people are, and how easily deceived they can be. Just being a wonderful speaker, or a charismatic person, or making a good presentation in front of a crowd, doesn't make what they say right. The most important ingredient of any speech or presentation from a gifted speaker, is to make sure what they are teaching is correct. This is why each of you need to know what the Bible teaches, instead of depending on what others teach. You must gain your own wisdom and understanding about what the Bible says. There will be false teachers everywhere you go, but you must only listen to what God and the Bible says.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Give God Thanks
Give God Thanks
"You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you."
Psalm 118:28
There was a man that was nailing down a loose shingle on a roof, and lost his footing and began to slip. He was working three stories above the ground, and was terrified at the thought of falling to his death. He started shouting, "God, help me, I'm falling. God, do something!" Just as he came to the edge of the roof, his belt loop caught on a nail and stopped him long enough to grab hold again. He shouted, "It's OK, God. I got caught on a nail." This simple story is how we can be, as we cry out to God, and when He answers our prayers, we say, "It's OK, God, everything seemed to work out." So often during these kinds of circumstances in our lives, we don't stop and think that God might have worked through these circumstances to come to our rescue, and give Him the credit. My point is that we need to put as much zeal into thanking God for what He has done, as we put into pleading with Him, when we are in need. We don't spend time just thanking Him when our circumstances suddenly change and get better. It is not God who we usually thank, but want to take the credit ourselves, or give it to someone else. God is the only one that knows what is going on in our lives, as He knows everything. He knows our circumstances, and is aware how our problems are resolved, and many times God is responsible for their solutions. The Bible tells us to give thanks in all things, and in all circumstances, but we so seldom give Him thanks or praise, when it is usually His intervention that so often resolves the problems we are in.
"You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you."
Psalm 118:28
There was a man that was nailing down a loose shingle on a roof, and lost his footing and began to slip. He was working three stories above the ground, and was terrified at the thought of falling to his death. He started shouting, "God, help me, I'm falling. God, do something!" Just as he came to the edge of the roof, his belt loop caught on a nail and stopped him long enough to grab hold again. He shouted, "It's OK, God. I got caught on a nail." This simple story is how we can be, as we cry out to God, and when He answers our prayers, we say, "It's OK, God, everything seemed to work out." So often during these kinds of circumstances in our lives, we don't stop and think that God might have worked through these circumstances to come to our rescue, and give Him the credit. My point is that we need to put as much zeal into thanking God for what He has done, as we put into pleading with Him, when we are in need. We don't spend time just thanking Him when our circumstances suddenly change and get better. It is not God who we usually thank, but want to take the credit ourselves, or give it to someone else. God is the only one that knows what is going on in our lives, as He knows everything. He knows our circumstances, and is aware how our problems are resolved, and many times God is responsible for their solutions. The Bible tells us to give thanks in all things, and in all circumstances, but we so seldom give Him thanks or praise, when it is usually His intervention that so often resolves the problems we are in.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Praise God Always
Praise God Always
"I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws."
Psalm 119:7
In previous devotionals, I have encouraged you to spend time in prayer and worshipping God when you get up, and before you venture out into the world. This time with God is so important each day, as it should let you feel His presence in your life during the hours ahead. However, the real test comes when you put this time into practice by your actions. What happens after you spend your quiet time with God? When you rush out the door, and on your way to work a driver pulls out in front of you, almost causing you to wreck, what do you do? Do you blow your horn and mutter some unkind words? During the morning coffee break, you find yourself listening intently to the latest office gossip, do you get up and leave, or participate? At lunch your meal takes longer than expected, and you verbally let your waitress know how bad the service is, and don't leave a tip. If you find yourself involved in this kind of behavior, it is obvious that your quiet time with God that morning didn't do any good. Your actions during the day is what matters, as you must put into practice a Godly behavior, and if your actions do not reflect God's presence in your life, something needs to change. We can praise God in the morning, but then our actions need to follow our praise, showing others that we are different. We are different because we are quick to forgive others, and do not succumb to the compromising ways of the world. Becoming more Christ like is a lifelong process, and we need to praise God in our quiet times, but also in our relationships and activities throughout each day.
"I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws."
Psalm 119:7
In previous devotionals, I have encouraged you to spend time in prayer and worshipping God when you get up, and before you venture out into the world. This time with God is so important each day, as it should let you feel His presence in your life during the hours ahead. However, the real test comes when you put this time into practice by your actions. What happens after you spend your quiet time with God? When you rush out the door, and on your way to work a driver pulls out in front of you, almost causing you to wreck, what do you do? Do you blow your horn and mutter some unkind words? During the morning coffee break, you find yourself listening intently to the latest office gossip, do you get up and leave, or participate? At lunch your meal takes longer than expected, and you verbally let your waitress know how bad the service is, and don't leave a tip. If you find yourself involved in this kind of behavior, it is obvious that your quiet time with God that morning didn't do any good. Your actions during the day is what matters, as you must put into practice a Godly behavior, and if your actions do not reflect God's presence in your life, something needs to change. We can praise God in the morning, but then our actions need to follow our praise, showing others that we are different. We are different because we are quick to forgive others, and do not succumb to the compromising ways of the world. Becoming more Christ like is a lifelong process, and we need to praise God in our quiet times, but also in our relationships and activities throughout each day.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Don't Be Afraid
Don't Be Afraid
"He replied, You of little faith, why are you so afraid?
Matthew 8:26
There seems to be mounting fear in our society today. The news about the economy causes many to fear for their jobs, and for their financial future. The war causes fear for the lives of our loved ones, who may be doing battle with our enemies. There are many things in our world today, that causes us to fear and threaten the stability and peace in life that we desire. When Jesus made the statement above to His disciples, He was addressing a problem that still remains with us today, and that is that we have little faith. When we have faith in anything, we will not be afraid. I can remember when our children learned to jump off the diving board into our swimming pool, they had faith that I would be there to catch them, and they were not afraid. However, if I was not there to catch them they were afraid to jump. Faith is the answer and the antidote to fear. The Bible tells us that "Faith comes by hearing the Word of God." One of Satan's biggest weapon is to cause us to doubt, to be afraid and have no faith, as this promotes a feeling of insecurity, fear and being defenseless, when problems come our way. Fear is an enemy of any child of God, and must be overcome consistently. Just as my children had faith that I would be there to catch them, you need to have faith that God will be there to catch you. When you have problems with your finances, your jobs, your health or any other issues, God is there for you. Just as He told His disciples, He is telling you, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?"
"He replied, You of little faith, why are you so afraid?
Matthew 8:26
There seems to be mounting fear in our society today. The news about the economy causes many to fear for their jobs, and for their financial future. The war causes fear for the lives of our loved ones, who may be doing battle with our enemies. There are many things in our world today, that causes us to fear and threaten the stability and peace in life that we desire. When Jesus made the statement above to His disciples, He was addressing a problem that still remains with us today, and that is that we have little faith. When we have faith in anything, we will not be afraid. I can remember when our children learned to jump off the diving board into our swimming pool, they had faith that I would be there to catch them, and they were not afraid. However, if I was not there to catch them they were afraid to jump. Faith is the answer and the antidote to fear. The Bible tells us that "Faith comes by hearing the Word of God." One of Satan's biggest weapon is to cause us to doubt, to be afraid and have no faith, as this promotes a feeling of insecurity, fear and being defenseless, when problems come our way. Fear is an enemy of any child of God, and must be overcome consistently. Just as my children had faith that I would be there to catch them, you need to have faith that God will be there to catch you. When you have problems with your finances, your jobs, your health or any other issues, God is there for you. Just as He told His disciples, He is telling you, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?"
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Avoid Gossip
Avoid Gossip
"Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right."
Proverbs 8:6
In this devotional I would like to expound a little more about the sin of gossiping. In Romans Chapter 1 verses 29-31, the Bible gives us one of the longest lists of sins, and the sin of gossip appears in the middle of this list. As mentioned in the previous devotional, the early church thought that gossip was one sin that a Christian could not condone, much less keep passing around to others, that they would even ban a member for gossiping. It is obvious that God hates gossip, but gossip is a sin that seems to have little effect on people today, as there is hardly a phone conversation, or a meeting where somebody isn't telling something they heard about somebody else. Sadly, gossip is practiced so freely, that Christians try to justify their gossip as simply concern for others. But the real fact is that hearsay or gossip has no place in a Christian's life, as even a tiny bit of gossip that is true or not true, and is passed around can damage and destroy the reputation, and even the life of someone. Hurt feelings, may not be the only negative effect, as jobs and even relationships can easily be destroyed by spreading gossip. Gossip achieves no good in anyone's life, which is why the Lord warns against it. For a Christian who spreads rumors and gossip, there's potential for even worse damage, in that when you spread things that could harm someone you are also hurting God. Instead of spreading gossip God wants your words to build others up, to encourage them, and to comfort them. Instead of using words that injure others, choose to speak well of everyone.
"Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right."
Proverbs 8:6
In this devotional I would like to expound a little more about the sin of gossiping. In Romans Chapter 1 verses 29-31, the Bible gives us one of the longest lists of sins, and the sin of gossip appears in the middle of this list. As mentioned in the previous devotional, the early church thought that gossip was one sin that a Christian could not condone, much less keep passing around to others, that they would even ban a member for gossiping. It is obvious that God hates gossip, but gossip is a sin that seems to have little effect on people today, as there is hardly a phone conversation, or a meeting where somebody isn't telling something they heard about somebody else. Sadly, gossip is practiced so freely, that Christians try to justify their gossip as simply concern for others. But the real fact is that hearsay or gossip has no place in a Christian's life, as even a tiny bit of gossip that is true or not true, and is passed around can damage and destroy the reputation, and even the life of someone. Hurt feelings, may not be the only negative effect, as jobs and even relationships can easily be destroyed by spreading gossip. Gossip achieves no good in anyone's life, which is why the Lord warns against it. For a Christian who spreads rumors and gossip, there's potential for even worse damage, in that when you spread things that could harm someone you are also hurting God. Instead of spreading gossip God wants your words to build others up, to encourage them, and to comfort them. Instead of using words that injure others, choose to speak well of everyone.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Guard Your Mouth
Guard Your Mouth
"Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord keep watch over the door of my lips."
Psalm 141:3
A couple of years ago, I discovered some minutes from a church in North Carolina dating back to the early 1800's. This is a church that my great, great, great grandfather was the pastor of, and I was wanted to find out their religious beliefs. After reading almost a year of their meeting minutes, I discovered that the church took a much more active role in policing the activities of their members than churches do today. There were many recorded minutes where church members were caught spreading gossip about other members, and when the church leadership discovered this, they took immediate action to stop it. Their first step in dealing with what they called "sinful speech" was to get the people spreading the rumors to confess this in front of the entire church body. Their belief was that a gossiping Christian dishonors God's name and also his own name. If the person spreading the rumors was unwilling to repent they were even asked to leave the Church. They said that if left unchecked, that idle gossip could destroy the church, and ruin the reputations and lives of innocent people. In our culture today it is almost common practice for Christians to talk about other Christians, and spread rumors they may or may not be true. Be on guard against spreading any kind of gossip, as you have a responsibility to set yourself apart in order to keep your thoughts and words pleasing to God. Don't allow yourself to be in the presence of someone spreading gossip, but speak out against it and leave, as this can tempt you to participate.
"Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord keep watch over the door of my lips."
Psalm 141:3
A couple of years ago, I discovered some minutes from a church in North Carolina dating back to the early 1800's. This is a church that my great, great, great grandfather was the pastor of, and I was wanted to find out their religious beliefs. After reading almost a year of their meeting minutes, I discovered that the church took a much more active role in policing the activities of their members than churches do today. There were many recorded minutes where church members were caught spreading gossip about other members, and when the church leadership discovered this, they took immediate action to stop it. Their first step in dealing with what they called "sinful speech" was to get the people spreading the rumors to confess this in front of the entire church body. Their belief was that a gossiping Christian dishonors God's name and also his own name. If the person spreading the rumors was unwilling to repent they were even asked to leave the Church. They said that if left unchecked, that idle gossip could destroy the church, and ruin the reputations and lives of innocent people. In our culture today it is almost common practice for Christians to talk about other Christians, and spread rumors they may or may not be true. Be on guard against spreading any kind of gossip, as you have a responsibility to set yourself apart in order to keep your thoughts and words pleasing to God. Don't allow yourself to be in the presence of someone spreading gossip, but speak out against it and leave, as this can tempt you to participate.
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