Selfish Ambition?

Good Morning,

Philippians 1:15-18 (NIV)
It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

First, I have to admit what may very well be a fault in me. There have been many times when I've flipped through the channels on TV and have seen various "Evangelists" preaching, singing, and presenting what looks like a variety show. They are dressed "to the nines" as the old saw goes, and wear a great deal of gold, diamonds, and other jewelry. And, all the while, there is an 800 number going across the screen asking for "donations" to keep the ministry going. Now, here's my fault, when I see this, the first thing that crosses my mind is, "Why don't these folks sell off some of their clothes, jewelry, cars, and mansions in order to help fund their evangelistic efforts?" You see, I'm being critical and that is probably a fault. But, my human mind just cannot grasp the fact that there are those getting wealthy...and then wealthier...at the cost of believers who are not so fortunate.

Then, this morning, Paul reminds me of a very important fact. "But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached." So, if I'm to believe that Paul is being truthful in what he wrote (and I do) then, I should be as he was and be joyful in this fact. After all, he knew...as many of us do...that there are those who preach the Gospel message for their own gain. HOWEVER, he was able to say, "And because of this I rejoice," that the message is being put out there.

So, I would say to all of us, especially those who feel, well, angry I guess, at those who preach the Gospel for gain, I would say, let us rejoice at the fact that there are those who will hear the message and come to know Jesus Christ. That doesn't mean that we have to support those folks who are getting ridiculously wealthy, of course, but we should rejoice in the fact that the Gospel is being preached. In the final analysis, these folks will have to face the Lord at the judgement and answer for their actions. It's hard for me, but I've got to let how I feel go and just leave it to God.

And, I've got to learn to simply rejoice at the fact that God's salvation message is being put out there, no matter by whom.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Proverbs 8

Good Morning,

I'm going to do something a bit different this morning. Well, actually it will be greatly different from what I normally send along. My friend Allen sent me his daily e-mail, "The Encouraging" word, and it contained a verse from Proverbs. Actually, it was Proverbs 8:34, "Blessed is the man who listens to me, Watching daily at my gates, Waiting at the posts of my doors." As I often do, I looked at all of chapter 34 to see the context of this verse. As I read the chapter, it's not really that long and only took me a few minutes, I saw that He who was speaking the words that I read in this chapter was Jesus...through Solomon, of course. Verse 1 reads, "Does not wisdom cry out?..." Wisdom, as is mentioned in several places in the New Testament, is Jesus. ("My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Col. 2:2-3). Sorry for this long introduction. But I thought it wise to set the "scene" for us.

All I was told and instructed today is that we read this chapter of Proverbs. Yes, ALL of it! No comment on it from me. None is necessary. God wants to speak to us. ALL of us.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%208&version=NKJV

(This link will take you to Proverbs 8.)

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Prayer

Good Morning,

Matthew 20:29-34 (NIV)
As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!"
The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!"
Jesus stopped and called them. "What do you want me to do for you?" he asked.
"Lord," they answered, "we want our sight."
Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.

Of all of the many miracles that could have been included in the Gospels, why would this one be there? The reason I ask this is because of what we read at the end of the Book of John, "Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written." (John 21:25) So we know that hundreds, if not thousands, of miracles were performed by Jesus, so why is this one...not all that "big" of a miracle, if we consider things like feeding 5,000 with almost nothing, or raising someone from the dead...why is this one included in Matthew?

I think the answer isn't all that difficult to ascertain if we read closely. The two blind men cried out to Jesus, as a matter of fact, it says that they shouted. So we have to conclude they were loud. Then, when people told them to be quiet, they kept on and even "shouted all the louder" to the Lord. You see, they had persistence in their request for Him. They weren't going to give up their quest to have Jesus heal their eyes so they would see again. Somehow, even though they didn't know who Jesus really was, they knew in their hearts that He was Lord; knew He was compassionate; knew He would do as they asked if it was His will to do so. And so they kept on even in the face of adversity from the crowd around them. No quit in these guys!

The lesson we learn is simple, I think. Maybe a couple of lessons. First is simply that we need to cry out to God with our needs, with whatever requirements we have in our lives or in the lives of those whom we pray for. That seems elementary, I know, but we need to be reminded from time to time. The second lesson we learn is that we ought to be loud in our prayers and even shout them if we feel led, no matter what "the crowd" has to say about it. Will little, quiet prayers work? Well, of course they will. But, if we're loud in our prayer and let people know what it is we have need for in our lives, maybe...just maybe...some of them will join us and help us in our prayers. The third lesson we learn is that we ought to be persistent in our prayers. We should have no quit in us when it comes to prayer for what is needed and desired in our lives and the lives of those we pray for.

Three easy lessons are what we learn from this miracle. I believe that's why it's included in the Bible. Jesus probably performed other "huge" miracles like the feeding many and raising folks from the dead. As a matter of fact, I'm sure of it in my heart and my mind. But, not all of those other miracles might have taught us valuable lessons. This one surely does.

Pray...Don't be quiet...Be persistent.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Joyful, Prayerful, Thankful

Good Morning,

1 Thessalonians 5:12-18 (NIV)
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

These verses are at the end of Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians. They constitute some final instructions for them to follow. There is much to learn here and much to think about and contemplate. A better word, I think, is ponder, yes, there is much to ponder here. However, the last of these verses are what seemed to stand out more to me today.

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Could any words be more timely for us? Are there any words that could be of more importance at even THIS point in the history of the world? Yet, how difficult are they to heed and obey?

Many of us find ourselves at a point where it is difficult to be joyful. Prayer sometimes seems futile. Giving thanks is almost beyond comprehension for some. But, I would argue that these three things are exactly what we need, right now, right where we find ourselves, no matter how tough things might appear.

Joyful? Yes. We can be joyful that we have the Lord in our lives. We can be joyful that Jesus gave Himself for us and atoned for our sins. We can be joyful that we are able to come together and worship God. We can be truly and completely joyful for so many things, too many to even list here if we'll give a few moments to think about it. Family? Of course. Friends? Certainly. So very, very much.

Prayer? Oh, yes, we have to be in prayer. And, as Paul wrote, it should be continually. Our prayers should be for the true necessities in life and not for those inconsequential "things" that have seemed to become necessary. We need to pray for one another; our families; our friends; our congregations; our church leaders and the leaders of our land; for Godly wisdom in all of the decisions that are made which affect one and all. There is much that we need to be in prayer about. I believe that once we begin to pray for the true needs of all, then the desires that we have simply begin to fade into the background. When we find ourselves truly praying for the needs of others and the overall needs of all, then our own needs somehow seem to be met. God stuff, you know?

Be thankful? For many, this is the most difficult of all. Some of us have lost good jobs and cannot seem to find even meager employment. Some of us have children that have gone their own way, perhaps even a way that is antagonistic and against what we have tried to teach them. Too many people find themselves with marital challenges and marriages that are falling apart. People have lost homes. Times, in so many ways right now, are pretty tough for people. So, be thankful? Yes, but let's read carefully what Paul wrote.

First, what did he NOT write? Well, he didn't say "Be thankful FOR all circumstances." You see, that would be just about impossible, don't you think, when times and "circumstances" are giving us the worst of what can happen.

What he DID write? He said, "Be thankful IN all circumstances." That's really quite different a statement. We can be disheartened because of the difficult things going on in our lives, but we can still be thankful for what is either not so bad or even pretty good. Some have extreme financial difficulty that is no fault of their own. But they have a spouse who is still there in a loving marriage. Children strong of body and mind and spirit. Well, you get the idea. We could list any number of things that we need to be thankful for even in the worst of times. For everyone it's going to be different.

So, today...this very day, please...let's remember to be joyful in the Lord and all we have because of a loving and caring God. Let's remember to pray for the true necessities of life for ourselves and for all. Let's remember to be thankful even when our circumstances aren't so great for those things that we do have.

There is much in which we should be joyful; much that we can pray about; much that we can be thankful for.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Love

Good Afternoon,

Matthew 22:34-40 (NIV)
Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question:
"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Love, my friends, is the answer. It's the answer to obeying all the God has commanded. Just as Jesus said to the Pharisees when questioned by the lawyer.

It's so simple, and yet so many miss it. If we love God and our fellow man, with a real and true love, then we will never break the commands of God.

Now, if this is so, and it is without doubt, argument, or question, then why in the world do we find ourselves sinning and not obeying what God has set down for us? I guess that the answer is pretty clear, don't you? It simply has to do with our lack of love that we ought to have in our lives. I would guess that it affects us all, this lack of true and real love. I say that because there is no one without sin, no one who has not gone against God's commands and commandments.

Something that we all need to think about and work on in our lives, I would think.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

No More Tears

Good Morning,

Revelation 21:1-5 (New International Version)
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."

There are many of us who need to read these verses today. There's a myriad of reasons that I say this, of course, and it's not necessary to go through the long, long list of woes that we are going through during this time in our lives. What we need to remember is written here for us, for all of us who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

You know what popped into my mind? Here, from that great philosopher Eric Clapton, are words to a song he wrote. No matter what he's done or where he's at right now, the words ring true: And I know there'll be no more... Tears in heaven.
(You see, you can find truths in many places and if we don't simply reject all of something, we may find good without realizing it. But, that's another discussion.)

When I read the verses from Revelation I found solace in the words given to John that he was to write down for all generations to read. You see, in every generation, in every age, we need to have these comforting words in order that we don't think that this earth, this planet, these times are all there is. We aren't alone in our need for God's words to bring us comfort and peace. All peoples at all times in history have needed this same comfort and peace that we now find ourselves needing.

Read what God has said to us about what our ultimate future brings. Let His words penetrate the wounds and pain that might be in your life now. Allow the salve of His promises soothe you.

Remember, "And I know there'll be no more tears in heaven."

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Guarding Their Way

Good Morning,

Psalm 119:9-16 (NRSV)
How can young people keep their way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
With my whole heart I seek you;
do not let me stray from your commandments.
I treasure your word in my heart,
so that I may not sin against you.
Blessed are you, O LORD;
teach me your statutes.
With my lips I declare all the ordinances of your mouth.
I delight in the way of your decrees as much as in all riches.
I will meditate on your precepts,
and fix my eyes on your ways.
I will delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.

The first verse of this section of Scripture seems to be a different theme than the rest. At least it did to me. Then I read it again...and once again. When I thought about it and let all of the verses sink in a bit into my granite skull, I saw how this comes together. Well, at least for me and in my mind.

The question is asked how our young people can keep their ways pure, to continue a good walk with God. We read that the way to do that is to keep that way, to guard their way according to the God's Word. Seems pretty straight forward, right? Then, what about the rest of these verses here today?

Well, what I was shown is that WE, you and I, leaders, parents, mature Christians, have a certain responsibility in helping our young people to guard their way with God. Think about it for a bit. Read what it is that David wrote for us and see if, when we do as he suggests for himself, that our actions and our ways would truly guide our young people.

What if...We seek the Lord with our whole hearts? We do not stray from God's commandments? We treasure the words of the Bible in our hearts so as to keep from sinning? We declare all of the rules we learned when young out loud for the young ones to hear? We delight...truly delight...in God's decrees as much (more?) than any kind of worldly riches? We meditate on what God has given us in His Word? We fix our eyes on Jesus and His ways? We really delight in God's statues, His rules for our lives? We DO NOT forget the words we read when we learn them from the Bible?

Yes, what if we were to live our lives in such a way as we read today? What would our young people learn from us? How would they see that a Christian life ought to be lived? Who would they prefer to follow, learn from, and emulate? Where would they want to spend their time? Why would they want to live any other way when they could see a truly joyous way to live a live and have a life worth living?

Young people guarding their way in the Lord? Yes, it can be done. But what I saw today is that they need role models that live out what it is they are being told is the way they should guard.

We have a responsibility, my friends. You and I as individuals. All of us collectively as congregations of believers. Those who have children and those who do not.

We have to step up and live what we want young people to live.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Your Cross

Good Morning,

Luke 9:23 (NIV)
Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."

If you're at all like me you have wondered what this "cross" might be that you should "take up" in following Jesus. I've prayed about this and asked God to reveal to me what it is that I should deny and what cross it is that I should be carrying so that I can be considered to be following Jesus as I walk this earth. I don't doubt that there are many people who have prayed the same or a similar prayer. I also have no doubts that there are many, like me, who have not received a direct answer to their prayer.

You know, here's a few simple thoughts and an ideas that have crossed my mind from time to time about this. What to deny? That one's fairly easy I think. I should deny myself anything that keeps me from God; that keeps me from following Jesus. That might be something as easy as turning off the television in order to talk about the Lord with my wife or a friend. Could be just not going to a movie and visiting someone who's homebound instead. Oh, the denying of self can take many, many guises if we will just give it some thought. Yes, knowing what there is in our lives which ought to be denied is fairly simple. The carrying out of it? Not so much, I'm afraid. But, this denying is really extremely individualistic and all of us need to just take a good, long look and we'll see places in our lives where we would be better off denying self in order to serve God.

Now, the taking up of one's cross to follow Jesus? That's not so simple to recognize. The "cross" that you need to take up could be something that's not even in the ballpark for me. And, vice versa, of course. I've thought about this a lot and asked for guidance in knowing, for sure, what cross I ought to take up for the Lord, as I said earlier. It seems that the more I prayed about it the less clear it became, when I was sure that my prayers would be answered in such a way that would leave no doubt as to what it is I ought to do. Have you felt much the same about this? In some discussions in the past I've found that I'm certainly not alone in wondering what in the world it is I should "take up" in order to be obedient to Jesus.

Okay. Here's the thing. If you'll look at your life, I'm sure that you will find, as I have found, that you are already taking up some cross or other in order to follow Christ. Don't be shy. Take a look. You'll see that there are things you do, maybe not on a regularly scheduled basis, but some things that you do which would be considered, for you, taking up a cross in the name of Jesus. You see, if we do something that takes us out of our comfort zone, something that causes some sort of hardship or inconvenience and makes us really UNcomfortable, that may very well be a "cross" that God has placed in your life for you to take up. You know, it doesn't have to be something that you might consider "major" or "big" that is the cross you need to take up. It could be something as simple as just speaking up about the Lord. Maybe in the line at a grocery store. Perhaps among a small group of your peers at work. It can be anything...large or small...that God puts in front of you and asks you to "take up" in order to be obedient.

Each of us has different things that we need to deny ourselves in our lives. We each encounter various ways in which we can carry the cross put before us.

Like so many things and as I've said so many times, it's the doing that is difficult.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

His Peace

Good Morning,

John 14:27 (NIV)
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Many of us...perhaps even many who read these words each day...are going through, or have gone through, some difficult times in the recent past. I know this for an absolute fact because these times in which we find ourselves at this point in our lives has touched my family as well. I know that if difficulties haven't touched you personally, it's a fact that something adverse has touched your friends or your family.

So, what in the world do these difficulties we're going through have to do with peace?

I kind of wondered about that myself this morning. Then it occurred to me that if we can hold on to the peace which Jesus Himself left with us, then all of the difficulties we might find ourselves in will be, are, so much easier to handle. If we have true peace in our lives...not the kind that the world might talk of, but that peace from God in our hearts and minds and souls...if we have that peace, then everything else seems, well, just not so bad.

When we can call of the peace of Jesus Christ in our lives, we can face anything because we know that this is only temporary and that the peace of God is eternal. When we have that peace weaving its way through all we do and all we say and all we think about, then difficulties don't seem so awful and we realize that it all shall pass and we can come out the other side with grace and joy.

So, what does it have to receive this peace? Oh, my friends, it is so very simple. All we have to do is to ask. Once we have received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we may not be assured of peace as the world might give, bur we surely have the peace that Jesus gives. Just pray. Pray that the Holy Spirit will show you God's peace and fill you with His peaceful assurance. If you don't feel His peace, the peace that Jesus said He gives to us, go to Him in prayer, open your heart and mind and allow Him to fill you with His peace.

Yes, times may be hard. Difficulties will surely still come. But, we can face them with a peace the world simply cannot understand. Knowing Jesus and having His peace makes all the difference.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Good Works

Good Morning,

Ephesians 2:1-10 (NIV)
As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

There is so very much in this section of Scripture that Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus. His words, the words given him by God, were NOT just for those people. No, not at all. These words were meant for every generation that followed, including this generation in which we now live. I'll take a few liberties with the exact wording today. Just to say what I heard this morning as I read these verses. You may or may not agree. That's okay. But, I would ask you to read these verses and listen to what is being said into your mind and into your heart.

Paul tells us that before our acceptance of Jesus Christ into our lives as Lord and Savior we were dead because of all of the wrong we had done, because of our sins. We were living lives not only in the world, but of the world and...knowingly or unknowingly...we followed the ruler of this world. As Paul puts it, "The ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient." That would be the ruler who still, to this very day, guides and rules not believers in ways that are against God. We once lived that way in the world. We lived for the gratification of our sinful wishes and carnal desires. We, before we knew Jesus, were the objects of God's wrath. However, and this "however" is one of the largest that has ever been uttered by anyone at any time, because of the fact that God loved us, because of His great mercy, He allowed us to live...to be alive...with Jesus, even though we were rightfully dead in our transgressions against God. "It is by grace you have been saved." God not only saved us, but He also elevated us up to sit with Jesus Christ with God the Father in heaven. This to show His grace toward us. Paul then writes the most famous of the words in this section of Scripture, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." I guess even though God had told us this previously, He wanted to be sure we heard it very, very clearly. There is NOTHING that we can do to be saved in our own power. It is 100% the grace of God, because of our faith in the fact that Jesus gave Himself up for us and took upon Himself the sin of the world, that we are saved. Surely we ought not to boast about the fact that we're saved, especially if we might express it in some way that states we have "earned" our salvation by this or that. Now, we know all of these things and I think that most of us believe all of these things. So, why reiterate all of this again? I think it is to point out the last words that God gave to Paul in this section.

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

This, at least in my mind, is where the previous verses point. There is a reason that God showed His love and grace toward sinners, ... all of humanity ... , even while we were still in our sin. This, these last words here, is the reason. To do good works. So, what, exactly are these good works? Well, I don't know what they are for you. I can't say what they might be for those around you; your friends, your family, those with whom you attend church. These "good works" are those which have been "prepared in advance for us to do." That means YOUR good works probably are not mine. And MY good works probably aren't yours. Now, they can be, of course, and the good works of one person can easily overlap with another person's, and often that's the case. But, the point is that we need to listen to that "still, small voice" as it speaks into our minds to tell us, to tell you...to tell me, what it is we ought to be doing. Then, we need to go and do it.

Maybe this message is just for me. I don't know. But I feel that it's for others who may read these words, as well. If it seems that it is speaking to you, then you know that God is nudging you...just like He's nudging me. Open up your eyes, your ears, your mind, and your heart. Listen, see, and feel what it is you need to be doing. God will tell you.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Use Your Gift

Good Morning,

1 Peter 4:10-11 (NIV)
Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:10-11 (NLT)
God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.

We are reminded in these verses that we are to use the gifts that God has bestowed upon us. Now, some may think that's such an elementary thought that it need not even be brought to mind. I contend, however, that we really do need to be reminded from time to time to use our gifts for the glory of God and for the help and uplifting of all.

Too often we seem to be, well, I guess lazy would be as good a word as any to describe those things that we don't do. There are musicians who don't play music or sing because they "don't have the time" to use that gift from God. There are orators who don't speak, again because of time restraints or some other "reason" (read excuse if you want) that prevents them from speaking. There are those who have the gift of writing who just can't find the energy or motivation to sit down and put pen to paper...or fingers to keyboard in our world today. As Peter mentions, there are those who have gifts from God that have to do with serving in some way, but for whatever reasons, simply don't serve. And, well, you know, the list can go on and on and on of things that people have been gifted with that they don't use.

This, my friends, is a true shame upon those of us who are wasting what God has provided in our lives. It's also, at least in my mind, sinful to just sit on our God given gifts and talents rather than put them to use to bring God the glory.

My question to all of us this morning is simple. What gift has God bestowed up on me that I'm not putting to its fullest use? And, as they say in news conferences, a follow up: Why am I not doing it?

Let us not throw away that which God has given. As I said, it's shameful and, in my humble opinion, sinful.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Be On Guard

Good Morning,

1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)
Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character."

This statement by Paul over 2,000 years ago is just as true today as it was then, maybe more so. I say it that way because "bad company" types have figured out even more ways to infiltrate the lives of people with "good character" to affect what they do, how they feel, and, worst of all, their relationship with God.

So, you say you don't go to places where there might be bad company, right? Okay. I'll go along with that. But, well, how about some of the web sites you visit? How about those the people you might interact with in some "innocent" chat room or other? And those computer video games? How about all of that?

You see, with our electronic ways of being with people, even though not physically being together, we have even more ways of "keeping company" than we ever did. And it all seems so innocent.

Now, having said that, I'm not saying that we should never talk with people online or that we should never go into some chat room or other (although you know what places you ought NOT to be in!) or even play some game online. Not at all. As a matter of fact, some of these places are great places to evangelize and let people know about God and Jesus Christ. Used for the right reasons, we can do really good things. The key thing on about all of this is that we need to be careful of where we are and with whom we interact, making sure that if some are what would be considered "bad company" that we do not spend enough time with them that it would, as Paul wrote, corrupt our good character.

I guess this has come today because when I read this verse I said to myself, "Well, this doesn't apply to me now because I don't go places where there would be bad influences on me. No bars or race tracks or any other places where I might be influenced adversely." Uh, oh! When we think that way we are put off our guard and then we are even MORE liable to be influenced without being cognizant of it. You see, I am online. I occasionally do go to some chat places and do surf the web from time to time. So, I surely AM as susceptible to adverse influences as is someone who might go places physically.

Bottom line: Be Careful!

Don't be led into spending time with people...either live and in person or online...who might be that bad company we read of in today's verse. We all need to be on our guard...all the time.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Don't Fret

Good Morning,

Psalm 37:1-8 (NIV)
Do not fret because of evil me
or be envious of those who do wrong;
for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.
Trust in the LORD and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in him and he will do this:
He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,
the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret—it leads only to evil.

I received this today along with a message that I thought was to the point, very succinct, and it also made me smile. So I thought it would do the same for you. Here it is...

Let me now give you the Cliff Notes version:Don't fret.Trust God.Be happy in God.Commit to him.Rest in the Lord.Don't get all worked up.Don't fret.

It comes right back to don't fret - don't worry. Just let God have today. Let him be in control. Give yourself to him and rest knowing he is in control. (This from Adam at CF Devotionals)

Sometimes it's good to get the "Cliff Notes" version of things. Sort of gets right to the point, don't you think? Anyway, I know that I liked it...a lot!

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Declare His Praises

Good Morning,

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

We tend to forget what Peter wrote about us in this verse of Scripture (yes US, you and me and all Christians). Among the many, many things that we are or have become that are written in the Bible, these things are of so very much importance.

We are: A chosen people. We are: a royal priesthood. We are: a holy nation. We are: a people belonging to God.

Do you sometimes lose track of this fact? I know I do. To tell the truth, and I think that many feel much as I do, I don't always FEEL like I'm chosen, or some kind of royal priest, or chosen, or a part of a holy nation, or...sometimes...that I belong to God. Human feelings and frailties here, of course, and we all go through our times of doubt and wonder about our faith and hope.

However, it's very good that we have the Bible to remind us of what we have obtained and become once we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. And, we must remember that there is a reason for who and what we have become, who and what we now are. That reason is stated clearly this morning. That reason is so "that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." Now there's nothing ambiguous or mystifying about that, is there?

God gives us a reason that He has blessed us with all He has and made us into what we are. We are to tell the world of Him and the praises of Him and the fact that He has called us all our of the terrible darkness we were in and into His marvelous, wonderful light.

How? In every way we can think of. When? Any time that we have the opportunity and, every time we have the opportunity. To whom? The entire world. Where? At every place we find ourselves.

Not very complicated or difficult to understand, I think. We have a purpose that is stated clearly in the Scripture we read today. Let us be obedient.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Anyone Asking?

Good Day,

Sorry I'm late with this today. I picked up a day's work, but it was really a night's work as I didn't get home until 4:00 AM. So, I slept in today.

1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

A couple of questions popped into my mind today immediately after I read this familiar verse of Scripture. The first was, "Are you prepared to give the reason for your faith and hope?" The second was more troubling. "How many are asking you about your faith and hope?" Now this second question should be more troubling to us because if we don't get many queries as to why we are as we are and do as we do, then, perhaps people don't see that we truly DO have faith in Jesus Christ and a real and true hope in our lives. You see, if I'm not being asked about the way I live my life or do the things I do, then I guess maybe I'm not different enough from the "norm" as people observe me.

How about you? Are you ready to give the reasons as to why you have hope? And, more importantly, are you being asked by people about your hope and your faith?

A couple of questions we all need to ponder a bit, don't you think? If we're not fully pleased with how we have to answer these questions, then I'm sure we know what we need to do in order to change those answers.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Refuge in God

Good Morning,

Psalm 118:9 (KJV)
It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.
Psalm 118:9 (MSG)
Far better to take refuge in God
than trust in people;
Far better to take refuge in God
than trust in celebrities.

I read this verse of Scripture and thought to myself, "Duh! Well of course! Who in the world wouldn't believe in this?"

Know what my next thoughts were? Okay, you know I'm going to tell you! I thought of the grocery store, to be honest. Pretty benign place, don't you think? But the picture I saw in my mind was of the check out lane. And, not the check out lane specifically, but the "magazines" (trash? rags?) that lined both sides of that check out lane. I pictured what I'd seen many times...people waiting there for the slow moving belt to get on with its business and their eyes perusing the pictures and stories of celebrities and the famous and the infamous. All right, one might say, but those are people of the world, not my Christian brothers and sisters. Really?

How many times have we been in a gathering of people, of church people, and overheard conversations about Elvis and his lifestyle and the "tragedy" of his death? How many times have we observed folks, again church folks, talking about the latest Oprah program and how "wonderful" she is to be doing all she does? Well, I don't think it's necessary to go on and on with specifics on this. Point made, I think...and point taken, I believe.

Where do we look? Who do we admire?

Think about it. Too often our eyes, ears, and minds drift away from God, away from Jesus, and onto people, celebrities and what they are involved in and their lives. How sad. That we so often lift people up and place them on pedestals that they simply do not earn or deserve.

Simply put, we spend entirely too much time and money paying attention to "celebrities" and the "rich and famous." Way too much of both.

What to do about it? Pretty simple really. Make up our minds to think about something else when we catch ourselves wondering about which celebrity is involved with some other celebrity. Replace thoughts of people of no real consequence with thoughts of God. Easy to do? Nope, it's not. But, with practice and some effort, we can succeed in it. Hey! Turning off the television wouldn't hurt either!

Yes, this Christian life does take some effort, doesn't it? The good news about the effort? It is so worth it!!!

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

The Law

Good Morning,

Matthew 5:17-18 (NIV)
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished."

There are those who will argue that the coming of our Savior has done away with "the law"...the "Old Testament law" that is. Some will argue that because we are under grace that the law no longer applies to us once we have accepted Jesus into our lives as Lord and Savior. Now, I'm not...NOT!...going to get into a long, drawn out theological discussion on this. I'll not pick apart various Scripture word by word in order to prove any point...one way or the other. Why? Well, because I feel that Scripture speaks for itself in most instances and the Holy Spirit in our lives explains Scripture to us as we need it.

So, I'll let today's verses speak for themselves on this subject. From the mouth of God; from our Lord Jesus Christ, these words are clear and ring out with truth. He said...and says again each time we read these words...that He did NOT come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. He came to fulfill them. And, just in case we feel that we aren't commanded by what the Law and the Prophets have said, let us read verse 19 of this section of Scripture:

"Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven."

Seems that Jesus tells us, clearly and succinctly, that we ARE to obey the commandments and ARE NOT to break even one of the least of them.

It is surely clear to me.Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Living Sacrifice

Good Morning,

Romans 12:1-2 (NIV)
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

When I read these verses, which I'm sure we're all very familiar with, I sometimes wonder if, perhaps, we ought to read verse two before we read verse one. Or at least do as we're directed in verse two so that we can more easily obey what we're told in verse one.

I mean, doesn't it seem that it would be a whole lot easier to give ourselves as a sacrifice AFTER we have given up the things of the world?

So, very simply this morning, what I'd ask us all to do is to see where we are in being "non conforming" to the things of the world and how far along we are in the renewing of our minds. When we've examined that, we can see where we need God's help in moving toward Him and away from worldly thoughts and actions. Once we've done that, I think it would be so much easier and better to truly give our selves over completely...body, mind, heart and soul...as a sacrifice to God. As Paul writes, "A living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God."

Yes, a short message today. Doesn't need to be longer, does it? We know what needs to be done, I think. So, let's go and do it.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

"Lord, Lord"

Good Morning,

Luke 6:46-49(NKJV)
“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?"
John 14:15 (NIV)
"If you love me, you will obey what I command."

I wonder if other people struggle with these two verses as I have struggled.

So many of us call Jesus "Lord" and say we love Him, yet we go about much of our lives in such a way that we don't demonstrate love for Him and we don't proof that He is truly Lord of our lives. Unfortunately, no matter what we might argue differently, this is way too true. We're pretty good Christians when we attend services at our various congregations on Sunday or Saturday or whenever. We allow God to come to us when we sing praise and worship and we might even go to the alter for prayer or to pray with others, thus "showing" love for God and our brothers and sisters. We feel the Holy Spirit fill us from time to time when we open ourselves up and, for a time, rid ourselves of the world inside us.

But, most of the time? It's sad to say that most of the time as we go about our normal, daily activities, there's nothing that would show that the Lord is with us and in us.

We simply don't DO what it is that He said we should do when He walked this earth and spoke His wisdom. We really don't OBEY what it is that He commanded us, which we can easily read in the Gospels and throughout the Bible.

Perhaps I'm being a bit harsh in my estimation of people in general. However I don't thinks so. Yes, of course, there are those who live a life more in line with what Jesus said and commanded. There are some who are more obedient and hold His words more dearly in their hearts.

But, most of us? Again, it's said to say that too many of us simply don't do what He said nor do we obey His commands.

Now, please, don't call me "legalistic" here. I'm talking about those things that JESUS said and those things that HE commanded. You see, His words are clear, don't you think? "But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do the things which I say?" These are the words from God directly from His mouth. "If you love me, you will obey what I command." Again words from the mouth of the living God who walked among us for a time here on this earth.

I think the point of these verses being brought to us this day is that we all need to look at ourselves to see where we can do what Jesus said more often as we walk in this world and where we can be more obedient than we now are to all He commanded, so when people look at us they see Him in us; they see Him working through us; they see that He is, truly, Lord in our lives.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Words

Good Morning,

Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
The tongue has the power of life and death,
and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Proverbs 18:21 (TEV)
What you say can preserve life or destroy it; so you must accept the consequences of your words.

At first, when I looked at the NIV translation of this verse, it wasn't entirely clear to me...the part about the eating it's fruit. Then, as He does, God had me dig a little deeper, read a little more, and be open to what He was saying through this verse. I like the way that the TEV translation puts it...accepting the consequences of what we say.

What I heard here after only a few minutes of thinking about this verse was, "David, you really have to be more careful in what you say and how you say it. Remember, you are the one who must ultimately answer for your words." Kind of sobering to me, in a way, if I choose to remember the things I've said in the past and the ways that I've presented my ideas, thoughts, and opinions. However, I know I'm not condemned for what I've done as Jesus has paid the price for those sins. For that all I can say is, "Thank you, Lord!"

Simply put, today's verse is concise and straight forward. In the past we may not have fully realized that we have done good or bad with our words. We just said them. Consequences weren't immediately apparent, so we didn't give much, if any, thought to some of the things we said. Today we cannot take that cavalier attitude, though, because we have read what God has to say about the words we use...to do good or bad...to give life or death.

Remember, what you say has consequences that you will face at some point. So, we choose the consequences when we choose the words we use. They can be uplifting and life giving or they can be degrading and demoralizing.

Our choice.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

"Take my life."

Good Morning,

1 Kings 19:4 (NIV)
He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life."

Today, this morning, right at this very moment in time, there are those on this planet, in this country, in this community, and even, perhaps among our own families and friends, who are praying this same prayer that Elijah prayed, alone in the desert.

There are those who pray this prayer because of ill health and cannot afford the medicines or doctor's visits necessary for them to become healthy. There are those who pray this prayer because they do not have enough decent food to eat. There are those who pray this prayer because they are in fear of losing their homes and will have no place for their families to live. There are those who pray this prayer because of despair in their lives due to the fact they have lost their jobs and do not have the means to support their spouses and children. There are those who pray this prayer for many, many reasons...some that we simply cannot understand nor comprehend. There are those who pray this prayer because they have lost hope...lost hope in almost everything.

So, what can we do about these people, these human beings, even some who are our brothers and sisters in Christ? What power to we have to help and offer some hope to end their despair; some way OTHER than praying for God to "Take my life."?

First, and above all else, we need to pray. We need to pray that those in ill health will be able to find the means to afford their medicines and medical procedures. We need to pray for those who, through no fault of their own, have found themselves in financial trouble in areas of their homes and groceries and the raising of their families. We need to pray for those who are in any kind of need that would lead them to pray for God to take them home. We need to pray...often and hard.

Prayer isn't all that we can do, but, yes, I must assert and agree that it IS the most important thing we can do. We also need to be looking around to see where there is need! We must get our heads out of the sand and stop ignoring the obvious that we see around us! We need to be obedient to what Jesus has taught about caring for our neighbors and providing for those in need...all kinds of need! How often do we have to read our Bibles to realize that WE ARE OUR BROTHER'S KEEPERS! How many times do we have to remember Jesus' words when He spoke of the "Good Samaritan" to remember that EVERYONE IS OUR NEIGHBOR and it is every one of us who is to be that "Good Samaritan" and helping others? Yes, my friends, we must cease our inactivity and actually DO something.

Each of us will, when we ask, be guided by the Holy Spirit in this. God will, surely, direct our thoughts as to what it is, specifically, we can do...as individuals and as communities and congregations. Perhaps He already has? Maybe the Holy Spirit has touched you...and me...in some way before this moment in time. You and I might know right now who it is we should be praying for. You and I might know right now where we should be putting our efforts. You and I might know this very moment where we should be helping with our finances. You and I...right now...probably DO know these things; know who, what, where we ought to be working.

Unfortunately, my friends, we aren't doing it. Well, I guess I shouldn't make a blanket statement like that; it's not 100% true. What I ought to say is that most of us aren't doing it. It is one thing to know what God is prompting us to do and another thing to take action on His direction.

Think about it. Pray about it. Do what you know you should.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

The Sabbath

Good Morning,

Deuteronomy 5:12 (NIV)
"Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the LORD your God has commanded you."

This commandment is one that has sort of bothered my mind for a long, long time. What I mean by that is I am bothered not by the command itself, but by the way and ways that we human beings sort of interpret what is being said to us. I don't mean whether it's Saturday (the seventh day of the week) or Sunday (the first day of the week). I don't really feel that's of utmost importance to the discussion. What I do mean is whether or not we, "modern" Christians, have changed the real meaning of what is said "as the LORD your God has commanded" us.

Now, this is a somewhat deeper theological discussion than I am qualified to give answer to. So, I'm going to copy in here what Christian Fellowship Devotionals author Tim has to say on this subject. He sends along "Summer Questions" each year and this, the keeping of the Sabbath, was one of them. So, here's what he wrote and sent along. (He goes into some details and his opinions, but it's something that we all have to think about and answer for ourselves.)

Today’s verse: Deuteronomy 5:12, “Observe the Sabbath day to keep it holy, as the Lord God commanded you.” See also Ex. 20:8.

Today’s topic: Summer Question #9

Today’s question: “My question is: Working on Sunday is it a necessity? A father working on a Sunday is trying to earn money not only for himself but for his family. Would this not be a necessity, keeping food on the table, keeping up with mortgage, electricity and other bills is a priority so working on Sunday might be needed. What if the job you have is only on the weekends, for example, I am into ice-skating and if I get hired to a show it would be on the weekends. Would it be wrong to be in a show on Sunday even if I go to church in the morning? It is not wrong for police, doctors and firemen to work on Sunday so why would it be wrong for me.”

I will try to do three things here. First, look at the question of the Christian Sabbath in general – should we keep it? Second, look at the first question (works of necessity), and then try to tackle the second question last.

A lot of people who claim to be Christians still do everyday things on Sunday. A look at Rev. 1:10, Acts 20:7, and 1 Cor. 16 shows us that the New Testaments Christians observed the Sabbath on the first day of the week (and called the day “Lord’s Day,” in honor of Christ), since Christ rose on the first day to the week. This also tells us that they observed the day. If we desire to be Christians, and follow the example given to us in the practice of those in the New Testament, and therefore closest to the time of our Lord, then we will honor the Sabbath, because the Bible tells us that they did.

The first day of the week was observed as a day set apart from the world by almost every follower of Christ through at least the first 1600 years of the history of the church. The idea that “The Sabbath does not apply today,” is a modern thought. In the past, Christians abstained from civil business, travel, and worldly talk on the day of worship (Exod. 20:8-11, Isaiah 58:13). As one commentator put it over 200 years ago, those who claim to follow Christ would do well to consider, “how they will reconcile their carnal journeying, their shaving, their cleansing of houses, their idle recreation, their unnecessary sleeping, their idle chat, or clubbing in the tavern, on it (Lord’s Day), thereto; or how they will answer for these at the judgement-seat of Christ.”

The first question concerning someone who has to work on Sunday to keep hungry mouths fed….yes, by all means. If it must be done, it must be done. If there are no other options to working on Sunday, and you or your family will starve if you don’t, then, of course, work. The question is, “have you exhausted all other options?” Only the individual knows this. Is it possible to take a job that pays less, but allows you to worship in God’s house, with God’s people? Certainly, if someone is in a car accident on Sunday, they will need medical attention. No one argues with this. There are deeds of necessity. There are things that have to be done, and they have to be done on Sunday – at least sometimes. What we do say, however, is that Sunday football games on TV are not a work of necessity. That’s the difference, and I really think it is a matter of conscience, individual conscience, as to what is acceptable to do on Sunday and what is not (SeeRomans 14:22). I don’t have a hard line to draw for anyone as to what is right and what is wrong. Like anything else, if your conscience is bothering you…that’s a warning.

Lastly, Ice Skating shows on Lord’s Day. God gives us six, and we give Him one, but we do give Him that one day that He has told us to honor. I will not repeat all I said above. You will one day stand before God in your own skin. I don’t have to come before the Lord for your transgressions, nor you for mine. If I had to express an opinion, and I will, I don’t think that performing for an ice skating show is honoring the Lord’s Day, as I see it in the Bible. That is my take on it. You have to balance a couple of things here. You have to consider your desire to do this, but also the honor of God. What about those who travel with you? I hope they will know that you are a follower of Christ. I am sure they will. If you don’t honor the Lord’s Day as you see it represented in the Bible, then what does that do to your witness? If you believe that you should honor the Lord’s Day, by setting it apart for His worship and resting in Christ for theday, then how could you profess your faith to them with any conviction, if you yourself were not following it, as you see it revealed in God’s Word? I am not appealing to your duty respecting the day here, but your witness unto the Lord and unto His glory.

It is not a work of necessity – ice-skating – as much as it might seem that it is for you. My suggestion to you, if you have the conviction that the Christian cannot do “everyday” things on our day of worship, is to tell the ice show people of your conviction, and hope they understand and give you Sunday as your day off (I understand that Sunday is a huge performance day for ice shows. It is not likely to go over well.). This does a few things.

1. It allows you to keep a clean conscience, by not going against your conviction of what Scripture teaches. This, to be honest, is worth more than any job.
2. It gives you a chance to glorify God, by so doing to testify that His truth is more important to you than any job. If they accept you anyway, then you have a continued chance to witness unto Christ, by having the day off and everyone knowing why. It might be an incredible witnessing tool.
3. It gives you a chance to trust God. It gives you the opportunity to trust Him, His goodness unto you, whether you land the job or not. Learning to trust the Lord will stand you well in all of life. There will be times in the future, when you are likely to draw on that trust throughout your life.

That is a brief attempt to answer the question that I know is weighing on you. “If I go to a service in the morning…have I still honored the day, and can I then work?” I think if you are asking the question you probably already know what your answer is. You will have to reconcile that yourself. It is not like a firefighter, or policeman, or doctor. Ice-skating is not a work of necessity. People are not likely to die if you don’t skate. I so want to say go for it. Have fun! Tour the world if you can. But if they will not respect your faith commitments, and give you the day off that God has set aside for His worship, do you really want to work for them anyway? Where else are they going to ask you to compromise? And if you compromise here, where else will you?

Soli Deo Gloria, T-

Lots of information for thought.

I would love the opportunity to discuss this with anyone who has an opinion or some insight that might be shared. Not argue it, but discuss it as loving Christians.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

The Word of God

Good Morning,

Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

What happens to you when you take the time to sit down and read the Bible? I ask myself that every once in a while so that I will take the time to think about why I'm reading and what I'm getting from my reading. I guess that each of us will get different things from our reading and study than someone else and even that each of us may garner different experiences from one day to the next in our own experience...even if we were to read the same section that we had previously read. In the not too distant past we discussed why reading the Bible is beneficial to us. Today's discussion is a bit different.

When I read this verse, one that I'm sure we're all familiar with and that we've all read many times, something else came into my mind. Yes, of course, God's Holy Bible IS, truly, alive and still active...even over the millennia. We agree that it is as sharp as any blade ever made and penetrates into our very being. It's the last thought in this verse which struck me this morning.

"It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."

Reading the Bible, at least for me, convicts me of those things that I've not done totally to the pleasure and approval of God. (Now, isn't THAT just a politically correct way of saying I've sinned??!!!??) The Bible does so much to help us to see where we are falling short of what God would want of us and from us. You see, if we didn't have this Book, how would we know and understand when we stray away from the life God wants us to live? Of course the Bible's primary importance, at least to me, is the fact that it gives us God's plan of salvation, shows His love. Certainly it is an instruction book of "do's and dont's" that we ought to incorporate into our lives. But, let's not dismiss that it is also one of the best ways in which we see and feels the error of our ways as we live each day.

The Bible is the place from which judgement ought to come. Not other human beings. Directly from God through His Word.

Just another reason why we need to be opening up our Bibles and reading what God has to say to us.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Psalm 19

Good Morning,

Psalm 19 (NIV)
For the director of music. A psalm of David.

The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,
which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.
It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.
The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
Who can discern his errors?
Forgive my hidden faults.
Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
Then will I be blameless,
innocent of great transgression.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Only one verse of this beautiful Psalm was the object of my mind when I went to read the context it was in. That verse was, "Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression." And, I will admit that this one verse is still the main object of what I read today. However, after I read all of the verses, I was sure that I ought to send it along to everyone so they would, hopefully, read it and see the wonder and beauty of what David wrote.

I'll let God speak to you and let you know what is most important here for you and what you need in your life today. I'll pray the prayer I see in verse 13 which I've quoted above for myself.

Open your mind and your heart and your very being today. Allow the Holy Spirit to show you what you need in these words.
Love, peace, and blessings,

David

God's Words

Good Morning,

Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV)
As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Do you believe what you read in these verses this morning? That God's word...either what have been written in the Bible or what is given to men even today...will come back to Him with fruit and seed? Is this something that you know in your heart and mind is true? I would guess that most of us would totally agree that what we read today is, certainly, true. So then, if we believe this as a fact, then why do we keep our mouths shut so often when it's pretty clear we are hearing from God words that we should be speaking or writing or in some way conveying to those who need them?

God speaks to us. I hope you believe that. I certainly do. I don't just believe it, I know it as an absolute fact. The reason I know it is simply because I'm not smart enough, educated enough, or glib enough to do what I do each day on my own. I know that what comes to me is from God. I'm just another conduit for Him to use as He sees fit. Those who know me and have known me for a long time will have to agree that this is true, as well, because they know that in my own power I simply would not come up with what God gives me.

Okay. You know what? God speaks to you, also. It's true. He speaks to you by letting you know what Scripture means when you read the Bible. He speaks to you when you pray and then give Him time to answer you into your mind and heart. He speaks to you when you talk with your brothers and sisters in Christ and listen to what they might say. He speaks to you when you take a walk in the park or simply when you sit quietly with your thoughts. He speaks to you in a myriad of ways and at many times.

Here's the deal, though. What, exactly, do you do with what God says to you? Do you keep His word given to you close to the vest, so to speak? Do you doubt that God has really spoken into your heart and mind? Are you carrying around something that God has spoken to you which should be said to someone or written to someone? Are you remaining silent when, perhaps, you should be shouting from the rooftops?

You see, I believe that the verses we read today are meant for every one of us and not simply for those who's words have been included in the Bible. Or, those who preach in our congregations or on radio or television. Or, those who write books and articles. Or, your friend and neighbor.

These verses are meant for you.

Now, what you do with what God tells you is up to you.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Love and Good Deeds

Good Morning,

Hebrews 10:24 (NIV)
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Hebrews 10:24 (AMP)
And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities.

I read this verse and asked myself the question, "Well, what have you done lately, David, that would be considered being obedient to what you have read this morning?" I couldn't remember any one particular thing that I may have done to motivate or stimulate someone into wanting to be more loving or to do good deeds. So, to tell you the truth, I was feeling a bit down about that. Then, I thought about what I was doing right at that very moment...and am now continuing to do sitting here at my computer...and it came to me that, perhaps...just perhaps...what I do each morning might be considered a help or motivation for others. Well, I sure hope so.

Now, the purpose of this e-mail certainly isn't to pat myself on the back, I assure you. Doing what I do is simply being obedient to what I heard many years ago and just haven't heard the direction to cease. It's just kind of me now and I'm pleased that I've been blessed to be able to do it...most of the time.

No, the purpose here is that we ALL be reminded that as Christians we have some responsibilities to carry out. What we read today is one of them. So, making what could be a very long message about this a fairly short message, I ask you the same question that I asked myself, "What have you done lately that would be considered being obedient to this verse of Scripture?" Who have you called to lift him or her up? Have you spoken to someone recently that would help that person live a life more filled with life or to go out and do something for someone?

Think about it. God is telling all of us something. Maybe we ought to listen?

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Instruction...Trust

Good Morning,

Proverbs 16:20 (NIV)
Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers,
and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.

I'm sure that we all know people who have not prospered in their lives. We also know those who don't appear to be blessed. Now, I'm sure that there are many reasons for this, but today we see clearly what the Bible tells us about prosperity and blessing. God tells us clearly that if we listen to, and carry out, His instructions to us as we read them in the Bible, then we will be prosperous. He also tells us that if we will trust in Him then we will be blessed.

So, I would then believe that at least part of the reason that some people aren't prosperous and some people aren't blessed could very well be that they have not followed God's instructions and have not put their trust totally in Him. Seems logical doesn't it? Yet, even though we know this and have been taught this from an early age, there are many of us who have not followed this advice as is written in today's Scripture.

Now, I can't tell you that ALL people who follow God's instructions and ALL people who trust in Him will be 100% prosperous or have all of the blessings that are available. No, I can't say that for sure and be positive that results will be what we think they ought to be. However, it seems clear that if we refuse to follow God's instructions and will not trust in Him, well then, it's pretty clear that prosperity and blessing will be difficult to come by.

Of course there will be some who will say that there are those who ARE prosperous and SEEM blessed who don't recognize God and won't accept Jesus Christ into their lives. That's true, certainly, and I don't know why that is. Some will also say that it appears there are people who DO follow God's instructions and trust COMPLETELY in Him, and yet they DON'T appear prosperous or blessed. Again, I don't know why that is, either. Those answers will have to come from the Lord when we see Him face to face. However, something to think about here...When we see people who appear to be prosperous and blessed although they don't follow God in any way, are they? I mean really? Just because they have money and seem to be abounding in blessings, if we look more closely, what does that prosperity and those apparent blessings really bring to their lives? Then again, when we see others who follow God's instructions and trust in Him but don't seem to have much in the way of finances or being blessed, if we peer deeply into their lives what we might find is that they really ARE prosperous and truly HAVE BEEN blessed. It just might be that we don't recognize it because we are using the wrong yard sticks to measure.

I think that this discussion can be ended simply by saying that it certainly IS better to follow all of God's instructions and that we SHOULD trust in Him. Those things will surely be best for us in every area of our lives.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Why Read the Bible?

Good Morning,

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

There have been times when I've heard the question, "Why do I have to read the Bible? I go to church on Sunday and I live a good life. I tithe and give to those in need. So, why do I need to read all that stuff in the Bible?" You know, when you think about it, that question isn't so odd. What I mean is, there are so many people who just don't really understand not only why they should read the Bible, but they also don't really know and understand what's in it.

Today, I received a message from our friends at Christian Fellowship Devotionals and Pastor Geoff quoted the following from "Tough Questions Christians Ask" edited by David Neff. In the introduction Mr. Neff says about the purpose of the Bible, and thus giving us at least a partial answer as to the "why" of reading it:

"The first purpose of the Bible is to introduce us to the Savior and his salvation. This Book brings to us the gospel—the good news that the infinite God loves us human sinners, loves us enough to break through whatever barriers stand between himself and us, to forgive our sin and win us back into the joy of an eternal fellowship with himself and which all that is good and just and true. This is the essence of Christianity. All else serves merely to display the jewel, that it might sparkle more brilliantly on its mounting.
"But when we have found the Savior, we need instruction so we may know how to live lives that will please him and serve him. The second great purpose of the Bible, therefore, is to instruct us in Christian Faith. Paul discusses this in the same passage in which he sets forth the first principle. “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17)."

I really liked what Mr. Neff said and I shall certainly remember this to be able to tell people "why" when I hear the questions about reading the Bible. The Bible is the Good News from God and also His Instruction Book to us. I guess, that's certainly enough reason to open the Bible and see what God has placed there for us.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Love My Neighbor

Good Morning,

Mark 12:30-31 (NIV)
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself. 'There is no commandment greater than these."

Just for the sake of argument this morning, let's assume that most, if not all, who read these words don't have a problem with the loving God part of these verses. We all love the Lord. So....

"Love your neighbor..."

Here's where we sometime get into some problems with the true meaning of what Jesus tells us. How in the world are we to love our neighbor? (And, that's discounting the argument about who, exactly, IS our neighbor!) How are we to love people that are so different from us? How are we to love those who are so darn unlovable? How are we to love those with whom we disagree...in total or in part? How are we to love people who refuse to accept the fact of God or of Jesus?

These are very tough questions, I will agree. Um, I also don't have the answers to them. So, if that's what is expected, then we'll have to look to people more intelligent and wise than me, that's for sure!

I can tell you that it IS possible...100% possible...to love those with whom you disagree. Whether it's a political disagreement (yes, Republicans CAN love Democrats, and vice versa!) or even a religious disagreement (as we see between various denominations). Now, I can say that and mean that because I know that I love people with whom I do not agree on some things. I truly love many people who vote differently than I do. I completely love many other people who have a different "take" on some verses of Scripture. I love some others who seem to be unlovable. So, I know, without a doubt, that loving my neighbor is something that can be, and is, done.

What I don't understand and can't teach is the "why" or the "how" of the love I feel toward some who are different from me and are even diametrically opposed to some things I feel and believe. All I can say about that is, well, it has to be God. It certainly isn't me. Now, I know this because, you see, I don't love EVERYONE! I still have a problem loving some who I know I should love. So, if I had the answer as to how it's possible for me to love some of the people that I do love, then I'd be able to love ALL of my neighbors, as well. You see my dilemma here?

What I think is my responsibility in being obedient to what Jesus has told us in these verses of Scripture is the fact that I must continue to work on it...this love thing for my neighbors. I have to do all in my power to put aside my prejudices and wrong feelings about this person or that, and ask God to come and lift me up above myself and show me how I can love them. In my own power? No. I don't think it's possible for me to love all of my neighbors. With God's help? Yes. Because, with God everything and anything is possible.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David

Violence

Good Morning,

Proverbs 3:31-32 (NIV)
Do not envy a violent man
or choose any of his ways,
for the LORD detests a perverse man
but takes the upright into his confidence.

Verse 31, "Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways," scares me a great deal. One might ask why to that, of course, as it seems evident that if we don't envy violence or choose to be violent, then why should we be concerned? My answer to that can be seen by the proliferation of some of the new aged types of bloody and extreme sports that I see occasionally when I "surf" through channels on my television. I'm not scared for myself as these "sports" don't interest me in even the smallest way. What DOES scare me is the fact that there are so many young people...men and women, boys and girls...who see these "Mixed Martial Arts" and "Ultimate Fighting" things as perfectly normal and enjoyable to watch. What scares me is the fact that there are young people doing the things they see on the television and in the arenas all over the country in their back yards! I mean, I've read reports of kids, young people, being seriously hurt and even maimed because they are emulating violent "heroes" that they've seen. They are doing exactly what we are told NOT to do in today's Scriptures.

What can you or I do about it? I really don't know. Except that we ought to be extremely careful about what our young people are watching and what kinds of behaviors they are emulating. We need to teach our children, our young men and women, what the Bible says about things that the world sees and teaches as "normal" types of behavior. We need to be sure that our kids understand that it is simply wrong to hurt other people...physically, emotionally, or spiritually.

After I read verse 31 and had gone on to verse 32, "for the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence," I didn't immediately see the correlation between the two verses. Then it struck me. Those who feel that a violent man is one who should be held up and then chooses a violent way to live, well, that man...person...is a perverse one. At least in the eyes of God, as I read it. THIS is what we need to be sure our young people understand. Violence, especially as we've seen it evolve over the recent past years, is perverse. It's as simple as that. God says so.

To bring this back around, I now understand more fully why I have felt so disgusted when I've seen the few moments of this violent fighting I've been exposed to. Simply put, it's because I have known in my heart what these verses teach us today. Violence is perverse. Violence, extreme violence as is portrayed way too much for all to see, is especially perverse and should be avoided at all costs.

Let's not turn our heads and shrug our shoulders at this segment of "entertainment" and treat it as something that's harmless and, God forbid, even enjoyable to watch. Let us remember these verses we read today.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David