Traveling To A Friend's House!

The statement has been made that “Home is where the heart is.” We sing a hymn with the refrain “Anywhere is home, if Christ my Lord is there.” [Hymn by John M. Henson & Homer F. Morris (1927)] Yesterday I came across a Danish proverb which read, “The road to a friend’s house is never too long.”

How much do we focus on the wonderful friend we have in Jesus. He came to earth to seek and to save the lost. (Luke 19:10) He also provided the means to make it possible for us to be with Him in eternity.

Jesus encouraged the disciples…
“(2) In MY FATHER’S HOUSE are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? (3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I WILL COME AGAIN AND WILL TAKE YOU TO MYSELF, THAT WHERE I AM YOU MAY BE ALSO.” (John 14:2-3 ESV)

Was that journey the same for each of the disciples? How long we will travel the road to the FATHER’S HOUSE is uncertain. However, compared to the eternity we will spend there, the road will not be too long.

Paul reminded the Corinthian brethren…
“(1) For we know that if the tent, which is our earthly home, is destroyed, WE HAVE A BUILDING FROM GOD, A HOUSE NOT MADE WITH HANDS, ETERNAL IN THE HEAVENS. … (8) Yes, we are of good courage, and we WOULD RATHER BE away from the body and AT HOME WITH THE LORD. (9) So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.” (2 Corinthians 5:1 & 8-9 ESV)

Though Paul focused on the ministry he was called to carry out as he traveled the road HOME, he possessed a burning desire “to depart and be with Christ.” (Philippians 1:23) There is also service for us to offer along the road that leads to our FATHER’S HOUSE. As we journey through life, let us keep that ultimate destination in mind. Considering the friend Jesus is to us should fill us with eager anticipation to finally arrive where He is on high. In comparison to the glorious eternity we will spend with Him -- regardless the number of days we might journey here -- the road to HIS HOUSE will not be too long.

Have a great day WITH A HEART TURNED TOWARD HOME!
Carl

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Help To Stand!

Some of yesterday’s news coverage of hurricane “Katrina” aired video of a news reporter trying to give his report while the storm was raging around him. He had ducked down next to what appeared to be a trash receptacle secured to the sidewalk, but a piece he was holding onto broke off, providing no anchoring power at all. Getting knocked off his feet by the wind, this reporter finally decided to break off his report so that he and the person operating the camera could get back inside. The wind continued to blow him down as he tried to work his way back into a building. These hurricane force winds continued to reveal what was stable and what was not.

Someone has said, “Your problems only defeat you when you let them lean on you.” [source: calendar quote] There is only so much that we can stand up under. Where we seek to take shelter and what we either choose to lean against or allow to lean against us makes a world of difference in how well we survive. Is our trust for help in standing properly placed in life?

Following the judgment God stated against Assyria through the prophet Isaiah, we find mention of a day that would come for the remnant of Israel.

“In that day the remnant of Israel and the survivors of the house of Jacob will no more lean on him who struck them, BUT WILL LEAN ON THE LORD, THE HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL, IN TRUTH.” (Isaiah 10:20 ESV)

Israel’s having been taken into captivity was initially due to their lack of LEANING ON GOD and submitting to His Will. Through Isaiah God sent a message of hope for a future that would include once again LEANING ON THE LORD. God is the true source of stability in the storms of life and the One on Whom we can continually LEAN for the support needed to stand in truth.

Solomon exhorted…
“TRUST IN THE LORD with ALL YOUR HEART, and DO NOT LEAN ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING.” (Proverbs 3:5 ESV)

May we let today and every day be the day of LEANING ON THE LORD and the wisdom He provides for life.

Have a great day STEADFASTLY SUPPORTED BY THE TRUTH OF GOD!
Carl

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Don't Be Left In The Dark!

Finding one’s way in the darkness can be difficult. Darkness creates an atmosphere for stumbling and falling. Even the smallest thing in the darkness can create a danger. The fact we have night and day means there is darkness with which to deal. Flashlights, candles, and other means of LIGHTING OUR WAY provide assistance through such darkness. However, there is a darkness of a different sort that creates a more dangerous environment in which to try to walk.

Someone has said, “The darkest ignorance is man’s ignorance of God.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie] There may be a lot of things in life we don’t know or will ever know. To be ignorant regarding God and His Will, however, creates the thickest darkness in which to live.

Jesus said…
“(22) The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, (23) but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. IF THEN THE LIGHT IN YOU IS DARKNESS, HOW GREAT IS THE DARKNESS!” (Matthew 6:22-23 ESV)

Jesus came as LIGHT into a dark world. (John 1:4-5 & 9) He was the fulfillment of such prophecy. (Matthew 4:13-16) Unfortunately there were and still are many who prefer the darkness. (John 3:19) For such, the gloom of even greater darkness awaits them for an eternity. (note 2 Peter 2:17; Jude 13) Is there any wonder our world continues to be plagued by severe challenges?

God has provided the means for LIGHT even when there is darkness around us. As we live in His LIGHT we position ourselves to reflect that LIGHT to help others find The Way. (John 14:6) May we do our part to pierce the darkness of ignorance as we live in accordance with the BRILLIANT wisdom of God.

Have a great day SHINING TO SHOW THE WAY!
Carl

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"I Give You My Word!"

“I give you my word.” Such a statement offers assurance, at least when the one who is speaking is accepted as trustworthy. There is comfort in knowing what to expect as the word of another is such that it can be counted on.

In the Psalms we read…
“(89) Forever, O Lord, YOUR WORD IS FIRMLY FIXED in the heavens. (90) YOUR FAITHFULNESS ENDURES TO ALL GENERATIONS; you have established the earth, and it stands fast.” (Psalm 119:89-90 ESV)

Do we desire to know the MIND OF GOD? It is true His wisdom is far above ours. (Isaiah 55:8-9; 1 Corinthians 1:25) However, throughout the Scriptures we find the revealing of the MIND OF GOD. Though it was about 40 inspired men from various walks of life writing over a span of many years who penned the books of the Bible, the way it all fits together reveals there was a common source behind it all and that source of wisdom is God.

Jesus stated…
“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is of no avail. THE WORDS that I HAVE SPOKEN to you ARE SPIRIT AND LIFE.” (John 6:63 ESV)

Peter acknowledged that Jesus had the words of life. (John 6:68) Jesus had earlier stated that whoever heard His word and believed the One who sent him had passed from death to life. (John 5:24) And Paul exhorted the church at Philippi to continue “holding fast to the word of life.” (Philippians 2:16) Paul wanted to be sure that on the Day of Christ his labor among them had not been in vain.

As we seek to know the MIND OF GOD, can we hear Him say, “I give you My Word. Read it. Believe it. Trust it. Apply it. Obey it. Walk in it. It is life.”? Knowing that God’s Word is “firmly fixed” and that His “faithfulness endures to all generations”, let us allow the MIND OF GOD to guide our daily lives through the life He intended His Wisdom to provide and ultimately into the eternal life He has prepared for His own.

Have a great day LIVING LIFE BY THE BOOK!
Carl

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Chillin'?

My wife and I kept active the first week of our recent vacation as we had three of our grandchildren (one at a time) camp with us for a day and night. During the second week of camping (once the tent and the rest of our campsite were set up) I probably did more sitting than I customarily do even on vacation -- and it was good. Getting a break from a busy schedule and being able to relax a while was what the mind and body needed. Even Jesus acknowledged the need. (i.e. Mark 6:31) Besides time spent sitting in our campsite, at least twice we carried our folding chairs to set up in the rocks at the water’s edge of the Bogachiel River along which we had camped. I even commented to my wife one afternoon how nice it was to just “chill by the Bogachiel.”

“Chillin’.” “Hangin’ out.” “Kickin’ back.” Sometimes it is nice to just do nothing. Nevertheless, whatever we call it, it is not the thing for every day. Someone has said, “Now take the word ‘indolence’. It makes laziness seem classy.” [source: calendar quote] Taking a break is one thing, but laziness is an entirely different issue. We must never lose sight of the need for personal EFFORT toward spiritual growth and the responsibilities of SERVICE we have as followers of Jesus Christ.

Note the epitome of laziness described by Solomon in two proverbs.

“The sluggard buries his hand in the dish and WILL NOT EVEN BRING IT BACK TO HIS MOUTH.” (Proverbs 19:24 ESV)

…and…

“The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; IT WEARS HIM OUT TO BRING IT BACK TO HIS MOUTH.” (Proverbs 26:15 ESV)

One of my personal frustrations in ministry has been to see those who just don’t seem to grow spiritually. Because they appear to make no EFFORT to do some studying themselves or take advantage of the opportunities provided for study together, they continue to be in need of being hand fed. With regard to Christian maturity, we need to be willing to put forth some EFFORT (i.e. 2 Peter 1:5-7) We also need to accept our role as servants of Christ, willing to do what He has called us to do in service to the glory of God.

Writing to the church at Thessalonica, Paul exhorted…
“And we urge you, brothers, ADMONISH THE IDLE, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV)

Yes, patience is needed even when admonishing the idle. Idleness or laziness is not what Christianity is about. Our Christian walk is to be marked by serious EFFORT toward spiritual growth and a willingness to be involved in ACTIVE SERVICE to the glory of God. Remember the symbol of Christianity is not an easy chair.

Have a great day BEING AN ACTIVE DISCIPLE OF JESUS!
Carl

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Hot Pursuit!

When police officers are in “hot pursuit” of a criminal, their goal is to OVERTAKE them so that they may be taken into custody. Paul seemed to live his life in “hot pursuit” of capturing the essence of Jesus and all that went with the relationship. Regardless of how much he had matured in faith and godliness, Paul recognized there was still room for growth.

Paul expressed it this way.
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to MAKE IT MY OWN, because Christ Jesus has MADE ME HIS OWN.” (Philippians 3:12 ESV)

The Greek in this passage implies Paul’s pursuit of OVERTAKING or apprehending (Gk. “katalambano”) that for which Jesus had OVERTAKEN or apprehended (Gk. “katelemphthen” which is akin to “katalambano”) him. According to W. E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, “katalambano” is a word which signifies simply “to lay hold of” or “to lay hold of so as to possess as one’s own.”

The meaning of the Greek word used by Paul corresponds to the twofold meaning of the English word “apprehend” as well as supporting the wording of the English Standard Version above. Paul desired for his life to be OVERTAKEN by fellowship with Christ (note Philippians 3:10-11) in a way that he was captured in the ownership of Christ. Paul wanted to OVERTAKE and make His own that for which Jesus had OVERTAKEN him to make him Christ’s own.

How hot of a pursuit have we made such fellowship with Christ? Are we grateful Christ has pursued us to be His own? If we belong to Christ we ought to be pursuing the things which relate to that relationship. We are to seek to make all that goes with the relationship “our own” as He has made us “His own.” May we walk as individuals who have been completely apprehended by the Lord.

Have a great day IN THE CUSTODY OF CHRIST!
Carl

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In Training!

A couple days ago as I was taking my walk through Fort Worden State
Park, I observed a football team involved in pre-season training. They were not from our local school district, but I remembered having seen them about this time last year as well. Though others at the park were vacationing or picnicking, that was not their purpose for being there. They were away from home and staying at a state park, but were expected to put other things out of their mind and be serious about what they were doing. They stretched, they listened to the instruction of their coaches, they practiced blocking and pushing and passing and running plays and all the other things that will be put to the test in the season ahead. The focus was on the need to be conditioned and trained both mentally and physically with the hope of sharing in the glory of victory.

Paul, writing to Timothy stated…
“(7) Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather TRAIN YOURSELF FOR GODLINESS; (8) for while bodily training is of some value, GODLINESS IS OF VALUE IN EVERY WAY, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” (1 Timothy 4:7-8 ESV)

There is a lot of “stuff” in which we can get caught up in this world. Just as this football team was training for the game, as Christians we need to be serious about training in GODLINESS. We must be continually mindful of exercising spirituality which sometimes calls for stretching our faith. The maintaining of good spiritual health through a daily diet and practice of God’s Word is also something about which we must remain serious.

Yes, there may be other activities going on around us. There may be distractions galore. Nevertheless, when we are in TRAINING we must keep the goal in mind. Let us keep on training in GODLINESS so that we can have the hope of sharing in the glory of the victory God will provide.

Have a great day COACHED BY GOD!
Carl

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Love / Hate Relationship!

Some people share what has been referred to as a love/hate relationship. In such relationships there seems to be just enough love to keep drawing them together, but enough hate to stir up the pot of antagonism between them. Due to the tug-of-war which is created by the love and the hate there is a continual collision with each other and peace is never found. Such relationships need some counsel and a concerted effort to work together.

There is a spiritual sense in which if we do not get the love/hate relationship right, we too will find ourselves in a continual struggle. When it comes to distinguishing between good and evil, compromise will place our heart and life in a continual tug-of-war.

In the Psalms we read…
“O you who LOVE THE LORD, HATE EVIL! He preserves the lives of his saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.” (Psalm 97:10 ESV)

As we grow in our love for the Lord we ought to grow in our love for what HE LOVES. (i.e. Psalm 33:5) We should also learn to hate what HE HATES. (i.e. Proverbs 6:16-19) The distinctions we make in our life need to be those that God has made.

Solomon stated…
“The FEAR OF THE LORD IS HATRED OF EVIL. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate.” (Proverbs 8:13 ESV)

When we truly love God and let Him have His rightful place in our life we should be drawn toward what He loves and away from what He despises.

Paul exhorted…
“Let love be genuine. ABHOR WHAT IS EVIL; HOLD FAST TO WHAT IS GOOD.” (Romans 12:9 ESV)

To abhor is to detest or despise. The Greek word used by Paul implies the idea of hating or being in horror of. We must guard against being desensitized by the world regarding what God has declared evil while we continue to hold fast to what He has declared good.

Recognizing that a spirit of repentance is the act of turning away from that which is wrong and walking toward God, may it continually happen in our life as we set our heart on loving what HE LOVES and hating what HE HATES. Let us seek to grow in sharing the mind of God as He has revealed it in the Scriptures. Such a focus will aid us in making the right choices in our daily life.

Have a great day LOOKING AT LIFE THROUGH THE HEART OF GOD!
Carl

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Power Of Love!

I like to notice bumper stickers on vehicles as I walk around town. Some of them leave me wondering what was really behind the message. Others make me chuckle and may be appropriately called “bumper snickers”. Then there are those which cause me to shake my head in disagreement. Today my attention was drawn to the back of a car sporting several bumper stickers, one of which stated: “The future is uncertain … because love changes everything.” I had to look closely to make sure the word “uncertain” was really there, but it was. It is true there are some things with regard to our immediate future in this realm of which we may not be sure. Nevertheless, there is a CERTAINTY we can have with regard to our eternal FUTURE.

John encouraged…
“(16) So we have come TO KNOW AND TO BELIEVE THE LOVE THAT GOD HAS FOR US. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. (17) By this is love perfected with us, so THAT WE MAY HAVE CONFIDENCE FOR THE DAY OF JUDGMENT, because as he is so also are we in this world.” (1 John 4:16-17 ESV)

John also affirmed…
“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that YOU MAY KNOW THAT YOU HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.” (1 John 5:13 ESV)

Love is a powerful thing! Love has power to bring about great changes. And it is the love of God which has provided a CERTAINTY with regard to the FUTURE. It is only in Christ that can be found a CERTAIN FUTURE! (note John 14:6) Because of the love of God demonstrated through Christ, we have been provided the means for confidence in judgment (Romans 8:1) and CERTAINTY regarding our hope for the FUTURE. (Hebrews 11:1)

Regardless of what else may go on in this realm, the love of God has changed everything with regard to a CERTAIN FUTURE for those who love Him and submit to His Will. May we live a life that reveals the confidence we have in His loving provision. What God promises is as good as done!

Have a great day LIVING IN THE CONFIDENCE OF GOD’S LOVE!
Carl

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Attention Needed!

My wife and I have just returned from two weeks of tent camping. Though we do enjoy spending some time this way, we are always glad to get back to our more established residence (our house) and all the conveniences that come with it (especially a regular bed). During our time away we enjoyed sharing some one-on-one time with three of our grandchildren, I had the opportunity to preach on a Sunday morning where our oldest son ministers and teaches, and simply enjoyed being out amidst God’s beautiful creation. The second week was time for my wife and I to just relax and refocus together. We both kept up on our daily Bible reading and I also spent some time thinking about my involvement in ministry and -- with the help of God -- what the future may hold for the congregation here in Port Townsend, Washington.

Three places of quiet meditation our camping provided were (1) sitting beside a river enjoying the sound of the waters rushing by, (2) walking in the cool of the forest where a sense of calm was easily gained observing the many shades of green and the refreshing moistness of the air, and (3) sitting in the evening around a small campfire, watching the FLAMES lick around the pieces of wood.

Relationships, faith, and many other aspects of life are like fires; they go out if left unattended. They need to be stirred. Sometimes some shifting is necessary. More needs to be added. However, in the process light and warmth for life are the result.

Sometimes the fire is present in a life, but a reminder is needed to fan the FLAME as Peter wrote…
“(12) Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. (13) I think it right, as long as I am in this body, TO STIR YOU UP BY WAY OF REMINDER,” (2 Peter 1:12-13 ESV)

What Peter had written wasn’t new. The qualities he had listed (2 Peter 1:5-7) as contributing to fruitful and productive knowledge of the Lord had been taught before. However, Peter wanted to be certain that even when his departure from this realm came, the FLAME of the essence of Christianity would continue among them. The Greek used in verse 13 translated “stir” comes from a word which literally refers to being aroused or awakened from sleep. From time to time we need to be stirred to awaken the embers causing the FLAME of our faith to burn brighter.

This need for strong faith must be given attention. Our relationships within the body of Christ are also not to be taken for granted. Left unattended the spark may go out. We need each other!

The Hebrew writer exhorted…
“(24) And let us consider how TO STIR UP ONE ANOTHER TO LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, (25) not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)

The Greek word translated “stir” in this passage is different from Peter ’s statement. The word here refers to a sharpening such as that of feelings or actions. It is to incite. The heat of the coals of the faith of some within the fellowship of the church can help to incite action of faith in others. We need such and also need to offer the same as we join in fellowship regularly with other Christians.

Unattended the FLAME can go out. May we each continue to be attentive to the ways in which we can encourage the faith of others and how we will be mutually benefited by doing so.

Have a great day STOKING THE FIRES OF FAITH AND FELLOWSHIP!
Carl

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Concern for What?

After all Jonah had been through he still had something to learn. It seems he was unhappy about everything. He was angry that wicked Nineveh had been spared its doom. And the vine God had caused to grow, God provided a worm to make it wither (Jonah 4:7). Then God turned up the heat and Jonah again thought death was better than living (vs.8).

“(9) But God said to Jonah, ‘Do you do well to be angry for the plant?’ And he said, ‘Yes, I do well to be angry, angry enough to die.’ (10) And the Lord said, ‘YOU PITY THE PLANT, for which you did not labor, nor did you make it grow, which came into being in a night and perished in a night. (11) And SHOULD NOT I PITY NINEVEH, THAT GREAT CITY, IN WHICH THERE ARE MORE THAN 120,000 PERSONS WHO DO NOT KNOW THEIR RIGHT HAND FROM THEIR LEFT, and also much cattle?’” (Jonah 4:9-11 ESV)

Jonah, mad about Nineveh and mad about the vine, seemed to be mad at life! Not the day you would want to cross Jonah. He again stated that he was “angry enough to die” and felt he had a right to be angry. He should have been angry with himself! He had MORE CONCERN for this vine and his own comfort, than he did for a large city in need of direction. Was Jonah so caught up in himself and his world that he could not see the needs of others and the part he could play in helping?

Paul exhorted:
“(4) Let each of you LOOK NOT ONLY TO HIS OWN INTERESTS, BUT ALSO TO THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS. (5) HAVE THIS MIND among yourselves, WHICH IS YOURS IN CHRIST JESUS,” (Philippians 2:4-5 ESV)

Jesus, the One who had more right to be angry over wickedness than any of us, emptied Himself, took on the form of a servant, and gave His life for humanity. He was so focused on our need He gave His all!

Jonah was angry about a vine that sprang up overnight and died overnight. The depth of wickedness in this world did not happen overnight! May we compassionately and patiently reach out to the lost, one soul at a time, to help them begin to see the wisdom of God’s direction.

We may focus on our many needs, but the real need is for God to open our eyes beyond ourselves.

Have a great day SHARING THE INTERESTS OF CHRIST!
Carl

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God of Comfort!

There are aspects of life which bring DISCOMFORT. Then there are times we bring that DISCOMFORT upon ourselves. This may be through the direct result of our actions or merely because of the perspective we choose to have in life.

Being angry, we might have expected Jonah to just return home since he had finally fulfilled his mission for God. However, we read that Jonah decided to stick around and watch.

“(5) Jonah went out of the city and sat to the east of the city and made a booth for himself there. He sat under it in the shade, till he should see what would become of the city. (6) Now THE LORD GOD APPOINTED A PLANT AND MADE IT COME UP OVER JONAH, THAT IT MIGHT BE A SHADE OVER HIS HEAD, TO SAVE HIM FROM HIS DISCOMFORT. SO JONAH WAS EXCEEDINGLY GLAD BECAUSE OF THE PLANT.” (Jonah 4:5-6 ESV)

Even with Jonah’s bad attitude, even as he was throwing his own “pity party”, God chose to provide some COMFORT for him. Jonah was happy with this blessing even though he still could not rejoice over God’s blessing on those in Nineveh. Here, again, God was providing something Jonah did not deserve. Would he finally understand what God’s grace and compassion were all about?

God does not desire to bring DISCOMFORT to out lives. He continually seeks to bring us blessing. Rather than hardship God desires to bring us COMFORT. And He does this in spite of the fact we often need an attitude adjustment.

We have a choice. We can refuse to accept and acknowledge what God offers. But we will, in the end, realize we have brought the DISCOMFORT and misery upon ourselves. May we not take for granted even the smallest of blessings God provides. May they each remind us of how willing He is to give. And may we also be reminded of extending that COMFORT to others.

Paul stated:
“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and GOD OF ALL COMFORT, (4) WHO COMFORTS US in all our affliction, SO THAT WE MAY BE ABLE TO COMFORT those who are in any affliction, WITH THE COMFORT WITH WHICH WE OURSELVES ARE COMFORTED BY GOD.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV)

Have a great day PASSING IT ON!
Carl

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Too Nice?

Sometimes people are told they are too nice to others. Has that happened to you? Such people are advised they ought to be harder; more demanding; not so forgiving and gracious. Is that what Jonah was trying to tell God?

“(2) And he prayed to the Lord and said, ‘O LORD, IS NOT THIS WHAT I SAID when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I KNEW that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster. (3) Therefore now, O LORD, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.’ (4) And the LORD said, ‘DO YOU DO WELL TO BE ANGRY?’” (Jonah 4:2-4 ESV)

The NIV has, “Have you any right to be angry?” Imagine being mad because of God’s compassion and grace! And note the depth of Jonah’s pouting. He was so mad he wanted to die! (He would say it again in vss. 8 & 9) He knew the character of God. That is why he had not wanted to go to Nineveh. Jonah knew there was the possibility God would “go soft” on the Ninevites.

Are we shocked by such an attitude? Have we ever looked at another and thought, “They don’t deserve to have the gospel shared with them. They have been so bad they deserve the condemnation of God.”? Have we ever thought God ought to be harder on the wicked? But do we truly wish for Him to deal with us in the same way?

Remember Jesus’ teaching in the sermon on the Mount:
“(44) But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, (45) so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For HE MAKES HIS SUN RISE ON THE EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, AND SENDS RAIN ON THE JUST AND ON THE UNJUST.” (Matthew 5:44-45 ESV)

God’s desire is to gain the attention of the unrighteous in a way that would cause them to respond to His gifts and compassion and grace. God provided that opportunity for us. God continues to provide that opportunity for others as long as there is time in this realm. And as children of the Father, we ought to help in extending that opportunity through prayer, example of life, and the sharing of the Gospel of Christ. For us to decide some don’t deserve to have the messaged shared with them is to be guilty of the same attitude as Jonah.

Jesus was accused a being “a friend of tax collectors and ‘sinners’” to which Jesus responded that “wisdom is justified by her deeds.” (Matthew 11:19 ESV). If God is going to be called “Mr. Nice Guy”, may it be for us: like Father, like child.

Have a great day WITH A PRAYER FOR THE REPENTANCE OF ALL!
Carl

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With A Passion!

When you think of “passion”, what comes to mind? Romance? Tender love? Lust?

Passion relates to more than that sphere. Passion is intense feeling. Passion is extreme emotion. Therefore you could either hate or love with a passion! The passion which motivates may vary from situation to situation. So what is the heart of the matter? That’s it -- the HEART!

We noted that Jonah finally obeyed God and went to Nineveh to deliver God’s message of doom. He may have been passionate in his preaching because the message struck the heart of the people. And because of the penitent heart of the Ninevites, God spared this city. But what was the condition of Jonah’s HEART?

We read:
“(1) BUT IT DISPLEASED JONAH EXCEEDINGLY, AND HE WAS ANGRY. (2) And he prayed to the LORD and said, “O LORD, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I KNEW THAT YOU ARE A GRACIOUS GOD AND MERCIFUL, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster.” (Jonah 4:1-2 ESV)

Do we find Jonah’s response shocking? It appears Jonah obeyed God in action, but not in spirit. He may have been passionate in the delivery of the message, but was it with the passion or HEART OF GOD? Could it be that Jonah’s view of the wicked was “Lord, wipe ’em out!” rather than “Lord, help them see!”? Jonah had rebelled and run away from God, yet God spared his life and gave him a second chance to obey. Why could Jonah not recognize the place for the same kind of mercy toward the city of Nineveh? Did he think he deserved something Nineveh did not?

God has revealed to us that a passion for righteousness and truth can go hand in hand with a passion for the salvation of lost souls. Jesus illustrated this clearly through His life (i.e. John 8:11), teachings (i.e. Luke 15:1-32), and willingness to give His life on the cross as the atonement for our sins (note Romans 5:8). God revealed it through His provision of a means to remove the penalty of sin from our lives by His marvelous grace and mercy. What we have received is neither deserved nor merited. And it is not for us alone!

As we share the truth of God, may we possess the HEART OF GOD behind the message. The HEART OF GOD is broken by the lawless deeds of His Creation, but His HEART rejoices over those who repent and are saved. May we be passionate about God’s truth as well as His desire for the seeking and saving of the lost!

Have a great day VIEWING OTHERS WITH THE HEART OF GOD!
Carl

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Belief Acts!

BELIEF ACTS! Not puts on an act! Not goes through the motions of the outward actions of certain rituals and pious deeds. Sincere BELIEF ACTS out in the life based on its stirring within the heart -- the soul -- the mind of the BELIEVER.

Jonah went! Jonah preached! Jonah made clear the warning of God’s punishment to be poured out on the city of Nineveh in forty days (Jonah 3:4). And Nineveh believed! The message was not good. Punishment had been promised. And thus from the citizens (vs.5) up to the king (vs.6) was exhibited the reality their sins were serious, needed to be turned from, and hopefully God would relent and turn from His anger. (vs.9)

We don’t know all that the Ninevites might have believed about God. However, the fact they BELIEVED is made clear by their actions (read 3:5-9) as well as that we read God noted the sincerity of their repentance.

“When God saw what they did, how THEY TURNED FROM THEIR EVIL WAY, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it.” (Jonah 3:10 ESV)

We might fool each other going through the motions of penitence, but God knows the heart. He knows whether or not we are truly sincere. And that is why we need to make sure our BELIEF in Him and His Word is genuine. If we truly BELIEVE, that BELIEF will work powerfully in our life to keep us moving in His direction.

Remember the words of James:
“For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, SO ALSO FAITH APART FROM WORKS IS DEAD.” (James 2:26 ESV)

BELIEVE God’s promises! BELIEVE God’s warnings! BELIEVE His commands have our best interests in mind and live accordingly. God eagerly responds to such sincerity in accepting His message!

Have a great day ACTIVELY BELIEVING GOD!
Carl

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God of Second Chances!

Why doesn’t God just give up on us? Have you ever wondered about that? I ’m very glad He doesn’t. His patience is a marvelous attribute. And that patience is prompted by His great love for us. However, though we should be encouraged by this characteristic His patience is something we dare not take for granted as though it were endless. God continues to extend an invitation to the world to come into a relationship with Him and live to serve His purposes. But how many times do we serve God’s purposes with a reluctant spirit? Still, He amazes us by continuing to be ready to use us. Remember the reluctance of Moses to be God’s spokesman before Pharaoh. (note Exodus 3:11-22; 4:1-17) Yet God used him in a powerful way.

Jonah, also, was a reluctant servant of God. After he was delivered from his three days and nights in the great fish we read...
“(1) Then the word of the LORD came to Jonah the SECOND TIME, saying, (2) ‘Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it the message that I tell you.’ (3) So JONAH AROSE AND WENT to Nineveh, ACCORDING TO THE WORD OF THE LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, three days’ journey in breadth.” (Jonah 3:1-3 ESV)

Jonah had turned away from God’s first call. Couldn’t God have chosen someone else? Yes! Why didn’t He? I don’t know. But I am encouraged by the fact God does give SECOND CHANCES. When Jonah received the call to go the second time, he obeyed. It was still with some reluctance (note Jonah 4:1-2), but he did go, did preach, and did fulfill the mission God gave him.

Though we should aim to grow in our faith and an eager willingness to be involved in God’s work, we ought to be encouraged that God is willing and able to work through us even in the midst of our quirks and weaknesses. It is His power and the power of His Word that makes this possible. And that ought to encourage our eagerness all the more to know as we work His works it doesn’t all depend on our own abilities and strength. God will supply what is necessary for the tasks to which He calls us to be involved.

May we look to God to help us overcome our reluctance and willingly go and do as He bids us.

Have a great day READY AND WILLING FOR GOD’S USE!
Carl

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Don't Lose Out!

Jesus had asked a question we all need to take to heart. It was a question dealing with looking at life and all the things that relate to it, in the balance. What compares? What is measured as of the greatest value? It will be seen in the choices we make in life. It will be revealed in that to which we hold dearest and closest.

Jesus asked:
“(36) For WHAT DOES IT PROFIT a man TO GAIN the whole world AND FORFEIT his life? (37) For WHAT CAN a man GIVE IN RETURN for his life?” (Mark 8:36-37 ESV)

In Jonah’s prayer he acknowledged a choice that needs to be made when life is looked at in the balance. He stated:
“(8) Those who pay regard to vain idols FORSAKE THEIR HOPE OF STEADFAST LOVE. (9) But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. SALVATION BELONGS TO THE LORD!” (Jonah 2:8-9 ESV)

God has provided what is necessary for life and godliness. (note 2 Peter 1:3) Jesus’ blood was shed on the cross to deal with our sins. God has provided the record of His truth for us to read and follow. If we lose out -- whose fault will it be? Are we holding on to anything (object, direction, teaching, lifestyle, etc.) that could cause us to FORFEIT the grace that could be ours? We need to look at all of life in the balance and be sure we are holding to that which is right.

Paul stated:
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I PRESS ON TO MAKE IT MY OWN, BECAUSE CHRIST JESUS HAS MADE ME HIS OWN.” (Philippians 3:12 ESV)

May we continue to hold on to Christ. Hold to His Way. Hold to the manner of His life. Hold to the commitment of letting Him remain the Lord of our life that we will receive God’s gift of grace.

Have a great day HOLDING THE RIGHT STUFF!
Carl

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Getting Down To Pray!

When we choose to go our own direction we are exercising our will above God’s. In this way we have set ourselves above Him, making self to be lord of our life and master of our fate. There are times we need something to bring us back DOWN to the reality of the sovereignty of God. It took being thrown into the sea to get Jonah DOWN ON HIS KNEES. Read through his entire prayer (Jonah 2:1-9) and take note of his focus on God. It took this distress to get him to call upon the Lord. (Jonah 2:2) Further on into his prayer we read:

“WHEN MY LIFE WAS FAINTING AWAY, I REMEMBERED THE LORD, and MY PRAYER CAME TO YOU, into your holy temple.” (Jonah 2:7 ESV)

Jonah attributed his being hurled into the sea as being by the hand of God (vs.3). And it took the bringing of Jonah DOWN to the depths to bring him to his senses regarding God’s will. Here he was immersed in the depths, engulfed by threatening waves (vs.3 & 5), DOWN to the “roots of the mountains” (vs.6), and coming to grips with the “root” of his sin -- to realize that he (Jonah) was not the one in charge.

Someone has said, “When down in the mouth, remember Jonah. He came out all right!” [source: bulletin clipping]

God provided “a great fish to swallow up Jonah” (Jonah 1:17) where he spent three days and nights. For Jonah, this was no time for joy, but rather heartfelt repentance. Jonah needed to grieve over his rebellion. He needed to be struck DOWN in his arrogance before God. He needed to be humbled to remember the commitment of his life to God.

Peter admonished:
“(5) Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘GOD OPPOSES THE PROUD BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.’ (6) HUMBLE YOURSELVES, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so THAT AT THE PROPER TIME HE MAY EXALT YOU,”
(I Peter 5:5-6 ESV)

Toward the end of Jonah’s prayer we read:
“But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; WHAT I HAVE VOWED I WILL PAY. Salvation belongs to the LORD!” (Jonah 2:9 ESV)

Then “the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.” (Jonah 2:10)

Humbled, Jonah was ready to acknowledge God’s rightful place. From the depths, God brought Jonah back up!

May we remove from our lives those things (actions, thoughts, feelings, stumbling blocks, etc.) that would keep us from humbling ourselves in prayer before God. Acknowledge Him as the Lord of our life and the Master of our eternal destiny.

Have a great day UPLIFTED THROUGH HUMILITY BEFORE OUR GREAT GOD!
Carl

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Making Believers!

Jonah was a BELIEVER sent on a mission. Nineveh needed to BELIEVE the severity of their condition and the wrath of God ready to be unleashed upon them. But what impact was Jonah’s choice presently saying about his BELIEF? It appears he did not take God’s calling seriously. He heard, but refused to obey.

When we make such choices, what does that say to non-BELIEVERS? Would they assume we really do not BELIEVE God? And wouldn’t this be for us to live and make choices as if there were no God? Does that make us appear any better than an atheist?

Those who had taken Jonah on board began to believe that Jonah’s God must be powerful. These sailors began to realize their gods were not responding to their prayers and neither the sailors nor their gods were any match for the tempest they faced. It was with reluctance, even asking the forgiveness of Jonah’s God, that the sailors threw Jonah from the ship.

“(14) Therefore they called out to the LORD, ‘O LORD, let us not perish for this man’s life, and lay not on us innocent blood, for you, O LORD, have done as it pleased you.’ (15) So they picked up Jonah and hurled him into the sea, and the sea ceased from its raging. (16) THEN THE MEN FEARED THE LORD EXCEEDINGLY, AND THEY OFFERED A SACRIFICE TO THE LORD AND MADE VOWS.” (Jonah 1:14-16 ESV)

It was God’s power, rather than a message from Jonah, that made BELIEVERS and worshippers of these men. This is the way of God’s power; it ultimately makes BELIEVERS. But God’s desire is for His power to be evident in our lives that others will BELIEVE our testimony about Him and see the true life He has brought to us. Is His power evident? Does our faith give testimony to God’s power working in our lives?

Paul encouraged the Ephesian brethren with these words:
“(18) having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, (19) and what is THE IMMEASURABLE GREATNESS OF HIS POWER TOWARD US WHO BELIEVE, according to the working of his great might (20) that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,” (Ephesians 1:18-20 ESV)

There are many things people place their BELIEF and trust in today. May others see in our lives that God and His power are the only match for the tempests we face in life.

Have a great day ALLOWING GOD’S POWER TO BE EVIDENT IN YOUR LIFE.
Carl

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Accountability!

There are so many who refuse to accept ACCOUNTABILITY for their actions. These are people always looking for something or someone to blame. In our courts there are those who want to blame poverty, parents, society, etc., rather than acknowledging personal RESPONSIBILITY. Yes, background may explain some tendencies, but it does not excuse actions. We all make choices and must accept RESPONSIBILITY for the direction and impact they have on ourselves and the lives of others around us. Many would like to claim that what they do in private does not affect anyone else. However, that is not always true.

When those who had taken Jonah on board questioned him, he acknowledged he was running from God. He also acknowledged that the distress they were all in was due to his own actions.

“(11) Then they said to him, ‘What shall we do to you, that the sea may quiet down for us?’ For the sea grew more and more tempestuous. (12) He said to them, ‘Pick me up and hurl me into the sea; then the sea will quiet down for you, for I KNOW IT IS BECAUSE OF ME THAT THIS GREAT TEMPEST HAS COME UPON YOU.’ (13) Nevertheless, the men rowed hard to get back to dry land, but they could not, for the sea grew more and more tempestuous against them.” (Jonah 1:11-13 ESV)

It appears to have taken the recognition of the peril of others to bring Jonah to openly acknowledge his sin. His personal choice was impacting the lives of others.

Excuses may work before the courts of earth. However, playing that game will not work before God. He is merciful. He is willing to forgive. But we must acknowledge and accept RESPONSIBILITY for our choices and their impact.

Paul exhorted:
“(9) So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. (10) FOR WE MUST ALL APPEAR BEFORE THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST, SO THAT EACH ONE MAY RECEIVE WHAT IS DUE FOR WHAT HE HAS DONE IN THE BODY, WHETHER GOOD OR EVIL.” (2 Corinthians 5:9-10 ESV)

We have heard the message of God. We have the freedom to make our choices. We are without excuse. We must acknowledge our personal ACCOUNTABILITY before God. May His Will become our will for our own sake as well as the sake of others.

Have a great day WITH THE GOAL TO PLEASE GOD!
Carl

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Can You Sleep?

We watch the news. We read the papers. We hear of the things some have done. We ask, “Where is the conscience?” And we wonder how such people are able to SLEEP at night.

What did Jonah do after boarding the ship for Tarshish?
“(5) Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and HAD LAIN DOWN AND WAS FAST ASLEEP. (6) So the captain came and said to him, ‘What do you mean, YOU SLEEPER Arise, call out to your god! Perhaps the god will give a thought to us, that we may not perish.’” (Jonah 1:5-6 ESV)

Was Jonah spiritually weary? Was he hoping he could awake to have his problems behind him? Sometimes depression and guilt are dealt with by withdrawing from the world; remaining in bed rather than getting up and involved in life. Have we ever experienced such feelings? Jonah’s actions should have weighed heavily on his mind. He was not right with God!

The sailors woke Jonah up because they saw their dilemma as a time for prayer not for SLEEP. Maybe Jonah didn’t feel like talking to God right then. If he fell asleep he could avoid thinking. Have we ever gone to bed and did not feel like praying because we knew there was something of which we needed to confess to God and repent? When we most feel like not praying is the time we need most to pray. Remember God’s awareness of our every situation. When we are willing to hand our cares and struggles over to God, then we will find the SLEEP that is most restful. It is then that we will be able to wake renewed within to press on in the new day the Lord provides.

Remember Paul’s exhortation to the church at Ephesus: “(26) Be angry and do not sin; DO NOT LET THE SUN GO DOWN on your anger, (27) and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27 ESV)

Nothing is solved in our refusal to deal with our struggles. To hold it within only causes them to get further entrenched in our lives. Anger is one of the areas we need to seek God’s strength and wisdom in order for the anger to not master us.

In contrast to Jonah, Jesus was able to sleep during a storm (Luke 8:22-25) because He was at peace with the Father and understood Who was in control. This is the kind of peace God desires to bring to our lives. Through a proper relationship with Him we can then find a peaceful rest that will truly benefit us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Paul admonished:
“(6) So then LET US NOT SLEEP, as others do, BUT LET US KEEP AWAKE AND BE SOBER. (7) For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, are drunk at night. (8) But since WE BELONG TO THE DAY, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.” (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 ESV)

Have a great day EXPERIENCING THE PEACE OF BEING RIGHT WITH GOD!
Carl

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The Cost of Running!

When Jonah decided to go the opposite direction God had intended for him to go, what benefit did he receive? What did Jonah SAVE by running? Not a thing! In fact, once he paid the fare for the voyage to Tarshish the ticket became COSTLIER as he went.

“(3) But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So HE PAID THE FARE and went on board, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. (4) But the LORD hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that THE SHIP THREATENED TO BREAK UP. (5) Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And THEY HURLED THE CARGO that was in the ship INTO THE SEA to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down and was fast asleep.” (Jonah 1:3-5 ESV)

Jonah’s running COST HIM the initial fare, COST HIM time (since he would eventually go to Nineveh anyway), nearly COST HIM his life, and ended up being COSTLY to those who had taken him on board.

Sin is COSTLY. It has its wages (Romans 6:23). We would do well to always keep this in mind. The sin of running from God not only COSTS us more than we imagined, it often affects those around us more than we may realize. And how can we possibly think we can lead others to God when we choose to go the other direction? Thus we suffer the COST to reputation, stability of example, and pride that must then be swallowed.

Following God and serving His Will is where the benefit is for our lives. It is true there are COSTS to discipleship, but the benefits of faithfully following God outweigh all else. Accept God’s warnings and avoid COSTLY blunders. May we continue to listen and choose His way!

Have a great day GOING GOD’S WAY!
Carl

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On The Run!

RUNNING FROM GOD! Who would ever think it a possibility? In the Scriptures God is revealed as being omniscient (all knowing), omnipotent (all powerful) and omnipresent (everywhere). [consider Psalm 139:1-16] Who in their right mind would even consider being able to RUN FROM GOD? Yet that is what Jonah attempted after being called by God to go to Nineveh.

We read:
“But JONAH ROSE TO FLEE to Tarshish FROM THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went on board, to go with them to Tarshish, AWAY FROM THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD.” (Jonah 1:3 ESV)

Does this make us wonder about Jonah? Do we consider his actions to be very foolish? But what about ourselves? Oh, we know we cannot RUN FROM GOD, but what do our actions reveal?

Jonah’s actions said to God, “I’m not gonna do it!” And that is what our RUNNING from responsibility says. When we come face to face with the commands of God and the ways in which He wants us to serve and minister in this life, what do our actions say?

Do our actions say....
“I’m with you Lord!”?
“Nope! Not going that way, Lord!”?
“I’m your servant, God!”?
“Forget it, God! Not me!”?
“Yes, Lord. Whatever you say!”?
“Not now God. I’ll catch you later!”?
“Here I am God, ready to do your bidding!”?
“Sorry God. I’m busy, but I’ll try to work you in this Sunday morning!”?

People run after all kinds of things and in the process are RUNNING FROM GOD and His Will. Are we chasing our dreams and in effect RUNNING FROM GOD’S calling? When we walk away from God’s Will to do our own thing we are RUNNING FROM GOD.

May we humbly accept God’s call. May we faithfully do His bidding. And may we find comfort in knowing God is mindful of every aspect of our lives. He is ready to guide and strengthen us for the tasks He lays before us. May we continue to walk with Him.

Have a great day WITH GOD!
Carl

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A Man Named Jonah!

Jonah is an Old Testament figure very familiar to most of us. The book bearing his name and telling his story is only four chapters in length; the main parts of which can generally be told in a matter of a few minutes. Yet there are a number of lessons we can gain from what is recorded in those pages regarding the life of Jonah. I believe God has preserved this account for us to remember more than a man who was swallowed by a great fish.

A group of children who had just heard the story of Jonah were asked by their teacher what lesson they had learned. One child responded, “You can’t keep a good man down!” We might debate whether or not Jonah was really a “good” man. He definitely had an attitude problem. Yet as the account begins:

“(1) Now the WORD OF THE LORD CAME TO JONAH the son of Amittai, saying, (2) ‘ARISE, GO to Nineveh, that great city, AND CALL OUT against it, for their evil has come up before me.’” (Jonah 1:1-2 ESV)

The fact remains God used Jonah for a task which proved to be fruitful. We have an amazing God Who can even carry on His work in spite of bad attitudes. One of the things we can praise God for is that He did not wait until even His messengers got their act together before using them. He used folk who were still in need of fine-tuning within their own lives. I find that quite encouraging. I must confess that sometimes my attitude is not what it should be. But if we allow God, He will use us even as we strive to grow into Christ-likeness in attitude, action, and speech.

Join me as we begin a walk with Jonah. Let us be open to what we will learn about ourselves and the Perfect God Who can use imperfect people in His work.

Have a great day TRUSTING GOD’S POWER TO WORK THROUGH US!
Carl

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The Difficult Part!

(original date: 05/03/1998, with passage changed to ESV)

Someone prayed: “I want to thank you, Lord, for being close to me so far this day. With your help I haven’t been grumpy, judgmental or envious of anyone. But I will be getting out of bed in a minute and I think I will really need your help then!”

Sometimes we visualize doing all the right things and then we step out into life and find ourselves blowing it again. Knowing is one thing, but practicing and living it is sometimes the difficult part. What can we do to help keep our focus so that we can be the type of people God wants us to be? First of all we should begin each day with prayer asking God to keep our heart open to His direction and focused on His will. Then we should try to keep our focus on the things that will keep our thoughts spiritually healthy. If we can keep the thoughts right it is from there that our actions will come. So what type of things should we keep thinking about?

Note what Paul said:
“Finally, brothers, whatever is TRUE, whatever is HONORABLE, whatever is JUST, whatever is PURE, whatever is LOVELY, whatever is COMMENDABLE, if there is any EXCELLENCE, if there is anything WORTHY OF PRAISE, THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS.” (Philippians 4:8 ESV)

Do the things we think about most fit into any of those categories? This would be a good passage to memorize and keep asking ourselves if this is the type of thinking our mind is involved in. For if this is where our thoughts are, to God's glory our actions will in turn be TRUE, HONORABLE, JUST, PURE, LOVELY, COMMENDABLE, EXCELLENT, and PRAISEWORTHY.

Have a great day LIVING FOR CHRIST!
Carl

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In Whose Company?

How we choose to live is important. Also whose company we choose to be in should be given SERIOUS CONSIDERATION. Paul warned that “bad company ruins good morals.” (1 Corinthians 15:33 ESV) The company we keep now can have an impact with regard to the company we may be with later on.

It is amazing that some would flippantly say they won’t mind going to hell because they’ll have lots of company. The truth relating to many going down that road was implied by Jesus. (Matthew 7:13) Have those who make such statements stopped to consider the kind of company that will be gathered there? This is not a subject with which to joke, but one which should be given very SERIOUS CONSIDERATION.

John recorded…
“But as for the COWARDLY, the FAITHLESS, the DETESTABLE, as for MURDERERS, the SEXUALLY IMMORAL, SORCERERS, IDOLATERS, and all LIARS, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.” (Revelation 21:8 ESV)

Also…
“Outside are the DOGS and SORCERERS and the SEXUALLY IMMORAL and MURDERERS and IDOLATERS, and EVERYONE WHO LOVES AND PRACTICES FALSEHOOD.” (Revelation 22:15 ESV)

Sound like good company? Sound like our crowd?

On the other hand, what kind of company awaits us in heaven?
“(22) But you have come to Mount Zion and to the CITY OF THE LIVING GOD, the HEAVENLY JERUSALEM, and TO INNUMERABLE ANGELS in festal gathering, (23) and TO THE ASSEMBLY OF THE FIRSTBORN WHO ARE ENROLLED IN HEAVEN, and TO GOD, the judge of all, and TO THE SPIRITS OF THE RIGHTEOUS MADE PERFECT, (24) and TO JESUS, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.” (Hebrews 12:22-24)

With which group would we rather be? Remember it is for an eternity! If we are living and walking in the company of Jesus now, we should note the blessed company we will someday join. May we maintain a SERIOUS CONSIDERATION regarding life being lived now and the eternity which is to come!

Have a great day FOLLOWING THE RIGHT CROWD!
Carl

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The Daily Walk

Those of you who have been receiving the “teEn-MAIL” for a while, please pardon another focus drawn from my daily walks. It’s just that I have been reminded on so many occasions of the importance of taking time for others ALONG THE WAY. You see, in our small community I have developed a reputation as “The Walker.” Besides this title some have given me I have also been called or referred to as “ The 19th Street Walker” (which is better than being known as the 19th Street Stalker), the “Walking Man”, the “Walking Pastor”, “The Flash”, “Speed Walker”, “Our Walker”, and the “Happy Walker”. A few days ago while riding my bicycle to run some errands (having already had my usual Tuesday morning walk of 17.6 miles, Tuesdays being my day off), a man who has frequently greeted me pulled up alongside me on his electric scooter and stated his shock to see me riding instead of walking. He asked if I had gotten “bunions” on my feet. I have also had people tell me (after seeing me driving), “I didn’t know you owned a car.” People in the grocery store have come up to my wife and I and stated they had never seen me moving that slow. Having lived in this community now for 21 years, and having continued with a regular walking routine for about 3, it is hard to go anywhere without someone recognizing me. I must remain on my best behavior. However, that has created an easy connection point for conversation with others.

I’m reminded of a missionary who was offered a car to enable him to cover more ground, get places quicker, and therefore do more work. However, this missionary declined the offer, pointing out that if he had a car he would pass up opportunities to connect with people ALONG THE WAY. Walking and riding his bicycle brought him into contact with people with whom he was able to share the Gospel as he traveled from place to place.

With the hectic pace of life it can be so easy to rush right past those ALONG THE WAY with whom we might otherwise be able to share the Good News of Christ and encourage. Though my walking on a daily basis has kept me in good health and saved money on gas for the car, it has brought me directly into contact with people I might not have ever met otherwise. These encounters have given me the opportunity to offer either needed counsel and encouragement, or provided the opportunity to talk about the church and the truth of God’s Word. I don’t know what the end of all these encounters might eventually be, but I keep walking and keep sowing and know God will bring the fruit where the soil has been right. I just need to remain open to allowing God to use me in whatever ways He provides the opportunities.

This past week I had the opportunity ALONG THE WAY to offer council to a young woman who has gone through some tough times. Last week I was presented the chance to move the conversation much deeper with another woman I had encountered many times before. She asked about my work as a minister and complained that where she attended the focus seemed to be more like a “business” than a church. What she saw was a lack of focus on people and providing the spiritual encouragement and support needed. We talked at length regarding the Lord’s church being like a family and a body and what those concepts should mean. I also stated my willingness to sit down with her to discuss the Scriptures further. Though she thanked me for my willingness she did not accept the offer (at least for now), but I trust we will talk again.

When Jesus was left in Jerusalem and his parents found Him, He responded…
“And he said to them, ‘Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I MUST BE IN MY FATHER’S HOUSE?’” (Luke 2:49 ESV)

The footnoted alternate translation in the English Standard Version is, “about MY FATHER’S BUSINESS.” That is the way it is also translated in the King James Version and the New King James Version. The literal idea seems to be that of Jesus’ focus being on the affairs or the things of the Father. Isn’t that what our life ought to be about? ALONG THE WAY there are opportunities to connect with others in very meaningful ways. We need to guard against becoming so rushed in life that we race right on past others with whom we might be able to share the things of God.

Some of my walking is actually to get somewhere. However, even when I am on one of my endurance walks, I have found it to be a fruitful experience to go ahead and stop and talk when the opportunity has presented itself ALONG THE WAY. May we each be open to the ways in which God can use us a His servants as we continue our daily walk in Christ.

Have a great day MINDFUL OF GOD’S BUSINESS AS WE GO!
Carl

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"But I've Got Good News!"

“You want to lose weight and build up muscle without having to do much of a workout? Well, I’ve got good news! I just saved a bunch of money on my car insurance by switching to Geico®!”

Thus is the type of television and radio commercials for the Geico® Insurance Company. The commercials never really provide much information about the company itself. They only capture your attention (by catching you off guard) and then emphasize the belief they can save you money. The approach of each commercial conveys the idea that regardless of what else might be going on in your life, it is only this “Good News” that matters!

“Good News” as if all else does not matter. That can be very REFRESHING. In fact, such REFRESHMENT makes quite the difference in life!

Solomon encouraged…
“LIKE COLD WATER TO A THIRSTY SOUL, so is GOOD NEWS FROM A FAR COUNTRY.” (Proverbs 25:25 ESV)

Refreshing! Satisfying! We need “Good News” that, regardless of what else might be going on in our life, can truly REFRESH us. Acknowledging what mattered most worked in the life of Paul.

Note what Paul expressed to the church at Thessalonica.
“(6) But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and HAS BROUGHT US THE GOOD NEWS of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you -- (7) for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction WE HAVE BEEN COMFORTED about you through your faith.” (1 Thessalonians 3:6-7 ESV)

Paul was away and though he was going through his own challenges he was concerned (note 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5) regarding how the church at Thessalonica was holding up under theirs. To receive the “Good News” from a distance through Timothy REFRESHED Paul’s spirit and brought him great comfort. The persecution against Paul and other Christians might have continued to escalate, but Timothy could say, “I have ‘Good News’. The Christians at Thessalonica are doing well in their continuing walk in Christ.” Being made aware of that truly “Good News” Paul could say, “now we live.” (1 Thessalonians 3:8)

Cold, REFRESHING water to a soul thirsty for “Good News.” That’s the power of any “Good News” associated with the work of God in the lives of humanity. May God open our eyes so that we too can be REFRESHED as we see the good being accomplished according to His Will today.

Have a great day UPLIFTED BY THE NEWS THAT MATTERS!
Carl

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The Reason

Some people need no reason to talk. They don’t even have to have something to say to SPEAK anyway. They just talk. They SPEAK their mind. They even think it rude for others to keep on talking while they try to interrupt. Can we reason with the unreasonable?

When we SPEAK is it for a reason? Other than for selfish reasons do we SPEAK for a good reason? More than just to hear ourselves talk, is it something worth hearing?

Paul stated the highest purpose for SPEAKING.
“but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, SO WE SPEAK, not to please man, but TO PLEASE GOD who tests our hearts.” (1 Thessalonians 2:4)

The highest purpose to SPEAK is to please God rather than men because in the process others will then hear what they need rather than merely what they might want. The world is full of those who are willing to “tickle” the ears (note 2 Timothy 4:3) of the masses in a quest for popularity. No wonder our society does not seem to be getting better. What is needed is for more to SPEAK the unchanging truth of God so that one-by-one lives can be transformed to the essence He desires.

As we seek above all to SPEAK that which is pleasing to God, we will be SPEAKING words that are “good for building up”, fitting to the occasion, and able to provide graces to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29) May we continually strive to speak such words so that God will be pleased, as well as ultimately those who will benefit from them.

Have a great day MARKED BY TRULY PURPOSEFUL SPEECH!
Carl

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The Real Essence!

Some parents view their children as their LIFE. A husband or wife may consider their spouse to be their LIFE. (Please understand the fact there are God given responsibilities to be accepted in these relationships is not to be minimized.) There are still others who consider their job or some recreational activity or hobby to be their LIFE. What this often depicts is that all of LIFE revolves around these particular relationships or activities. What happens when there is a loss of such loved ones or activities? For some, it is a feeling that LIFE is lost and there is nothing left for which to live. Certainly the loss of those dearest to us brings grief on a very deep level. Since we have been given the capacity to love deeply, we also have the capacity to feel the great depth of sorrow associated with such loss. However, one of the things which helps us through such times is the recognition of the relationship that truly constitutes LIFE!

Perhaps the relationship which creates the most difficulty in finding that which truly constitutes LIFE is self. People can get so caught up in themselves that it drastically impacts all their other relationships as well as their ability to attain LIFE at its best! What is the LIFE relationship that having our focus revolve around will keep everything else in perspective?

Writing to the church at Colosse, Paul exhorted and encouraged…
“(3) For YOU HAVE DIED, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. (4) When CHRIST WHO IS YOUR LIFE appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:3-4 ESV)

Life has been described is being that which one is alive to. What association grabs our attention the most and brings us alive? For a small child that may simply be the sound of the ice-cream truck coming around the corner. Sadly for some who have matured merely in years, their focus has not been lifted much higher than that.

What really perks us up and gets us going? How much is Christ truly our LIFE? Paul first reminded those at Colosse that they had died. Have we sufficiently died to self? He then pointed out they were presently safely hidden with Christ in God. Are we in Christ? Then Paul stated specifically what the essence of our life truly ought to be. It is when CHRIST HAS BECOME OUR VERY LIFE and purpose for existence that we have everything to gain and, like Paul, can consider everything else worth losing. (Philippians 3:7-8)

How much our LIFE really revolves around Christ will dynamically impact our daily actions, choices, thoughts, and the way in which we approach all other relationships. May we seek to be so united with Him that He remains the very substance of our LIFE. This is the only way for us to be found living and walking as He did.

Have a great day ALLOWING CHRIST TO BE OUR LIFE’S SPHERE!
Carl

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At Home!

In Mark’s gospel we come across an interesting statement. We read…
“And when he [Jesus] returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that HE WAS AT HOME.” (Mark 2:1 ESV)

Did Jesus have a home? Didn’t Jesus declare that though foxes and birds had their homes, “the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head”? (Matthew 8:20) Whose home was this? Whosever it was, this home was so filled with people who came to listen to Jesus that a paralytic had to be lowered through the roof to get to Him. Capernaum was a place Jesus returned to again and again. Though He had grown up in Nazareth, perhaps Capernaum had become as much a home for Him as any other place.

Perhaps there is another idea to consider. This world was not Jesus’ home any more than we are to consider it ours! However, as much as Jesus could be AT HOME in this world, would it not have been wherever He was accepted and believed in? Jesus appears to have been very much AT HOME in the home of His friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus; a home He was in on more than one occasion. How about His connection with us?

Note a statement Jesus made toward the end of His ministry here.
“Jesus answered him, ‘If anyone LOVES ME, he will KEEP MY WORD, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM.’” (John 14:23 ESV)

What kind of host are we to Jesus in our life? Is our life activity such that He can be AT HOME among us? May we recognize the ways in which this ought to reflect the daily fellowship we have with our Lord.

Have a great day KEEPING CHRIST OUR LIFE’S SPECIAL GUEST!
Carl

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