Memorial Day!

Today is marked on our calendar here in the United States of America as "Memorial Day." This day -- which falls on the last Monday of May each year -- was set aside as a public holiday to commemorate soldiers who died in war. By their personal sacrifice, freedom was secured for the citizens of this nation and for people in other parts of the world. For some, however, the day is merely focused on as a day off from work to enjoy time with family and friends.

In Exodus we read of another "memorial day."
"THIS DAY SHALL BE FOR YOU A MEMORIAL DAY, and you shall keep it as a feast to the LORD; throughout your generations, as a statute forever, you shall keep it as a feast." (Exodus 12:14 ESV)

This was the first Passover focus, a designation that would be placed on the Jewish calendar as an annual REMEMBRANCE of the nation's DELIVERANCE FROM BONDAGE in Egypt. Under the leadership of Moses, God led the nation of Israel out of slavery and toward a land He would give them. However, it was a focus not always kept (note 2 Kings 23:22) as faithfulness to God would from time to time go by the wayside.

We have another REMEMBRANCE today that the early church kept on the first day of the week. (i.e. Acts 20:7) It is a REMEMBRANCE our Lord Himself established. Paul recounted that establishment in his first letter to the church at Corinth.

We read...
"(23) For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, (24) and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, 'This is my body which is for you. DO THIS IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME.' (25) In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. DO THIS, as often as you drink it, IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME.' (26) For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." (I Corinthians 11:23-26 ESV)

The establishment of this REMEMBRANCE overshadowed the Passover memorial as Jesus had given Himself as our "Passover lamb". (1 Corinthians 5:7) Is it forgotten? Is it only focused on once a year? Is that REMEMBRANCE only made when partaken of on Sundays? Or is the personal sacrifice of our Lord for our DELIVERANCE FROM THE BONDAGE OF SIN remembered every day of our life? According to Paul, this REMEMBRANCE is to be kept in mind while we remember another day that is coming. May we continually retain the REMEMBRANCE of our Lord's personal sacrifice on our behalf as we live lives prepared for His glorious return and our deliverance into that eternal promised land.

Have a great day DAILY REMEMBERING CHRIST'S PERSONAL SACRIFICE FOR US!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 05/28/2007]

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Special Service!

It seems that for some people we would do just about anything, while for others we might need to think about it for a while. Doing for those who are most special to us is often not viewed as a burden no matter how difficult or long the work may be. We might even view it as a privilege to do for them, as well as a joy because they personally mean so much to us.

As we benefit others, WHO are we really serving. Yes, we may be meeting important human needs, but still, WHO is it ultimately for? The attitude with regard to this will have a powerful impact on the manner in which we do all things! It can be a powerful motivator in fulfilling tasks to the utmost of our ability as we eagerly accept the servant role.

In Ephesians -- a passage we noted in another focus earlier this month -- Paul urged slaves to offer their service "AS UNTO THE LORD and not to man", recognizing it was from THE LORD that they would ultimately be rewarded. (Ephesians 6:7-8) The more I read through the Scriptures the more I seem to come across this attitude where I missed it before. It has therefore become clear to me this has been God's expectation all along!

Reading in 2 Chronicles yesterday morning I was struck by the following during the days of king Jehoshaphat (king of Judah):

"(4) Jehoshaphat lived at Jerusalem. And he went out again among the people, from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim, and brought them back to the LORD, the God of their fathers. (5) HE APPOINTED JUDGES in the land in all the fortified cities of Judah, city by city, (6) and said to the judges, 'Consider what you do, for YOU JUDGE NOT FOR MAN BUT FOR THE LORD. He is with you in giving judgment. (7) Now then, let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice with the LORD our God, or partiality or taking bribes.'" (2 Chronicles 19:4-7 ESV)

It was THE LORD'S justice these judges were to uphold. It was THE LORD'S work they were to fulfill. Though that work brought benefit to mankind as decisions were made on their behalf, it was to be viewed as SERVICE TO GOD!

Think of the impact of our life when all we do is AS UNTO THE LORD. Imagine how powerfully that attitude will effect our actions in our families, in our communities, in our congregations, and wherever else we interact with others. Consider the quality of the service we will be offering and the joy we can experience in acknowledging what we are doing is based on a higher calling than merely that of the world. Remembering whatever we do in word or deed is to be done in His Name (Colossians 3:17), then all the service we provide will have greater significance in its fulfillment as our life is lived for God's purposes!

Let us continue doing AS TO THE LORD because He is most special to us and our utmost desire is to please Him. With such an attitude, service of any kind will take on a whole new light. May the Lord be praised in our daily actions!

Have a great day SERVING OTHERS BECAUSE THE LORD IS SO SPECIAL TO US!
Carl

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Be Courageous!

There are many who are quite bold in where they take their stand, even arrogant! However, is it always for the RIGHT things? It takes courage to take a stand and remain standing FOR WHAT IS RIGHT when the crowd around us refuses to do so. Going along with and standing with the majority may feel safe at the moment, but Jesus noted it is the many who have chosen the wrong path. (Matthew 7:13-14) Does that not seem obvious as we look at the world around us?

Jehoshaphat (fourth king of the southern portion of the divided kingdom) was one of the good kings of Judah. He was noted as having the Lord with him because he "walked in the earlier ways of his father David." (2 Chronicles 17:3 ESV) He was one known for seeking God and walking according to His commandments rather than following in the ways of the northern kingdom of Israel. (2 Chronicles 17:4) As I was reading through this chapter yesterday morning, I was struck by an important factor that would have made a huge difference for him as it will for us even today.

We read. . .
"(6) HIS HEART WAS COURAGEOUS IN THE WAYS OF THE LORD. And furthermore, he took the high places and the Asherim out of Judah." (2 Chronicles 17:6 ESV)

The New International Version reads, "His heart was devoted" and the New King James Version reads, "his heart took delight". The Hebrew word means "to be high or be exalted". This word even has the negative inference of arrogance and pride. [source: Strong's Lexicon] Courageous, devoted, delighted, uplifted ". . . IN THE WAYS OF THE LORD"! Not in the ways of the world! Not in accordance with personal desires! The heart was courageously uplifted in following in that which was TRULY RIGHT and altogether RIGHTEOUS; "THE WAYS OF THE LORD."

Is this also the condition of our heart? If there is any "arrogance" in our life, may it be on behalf of the Will of God since we know HIS WAYS are ALWAYS RIGHT! Where we stand now relates to where we will stand in eternity. May our heart courageously help us take our stand in "THE WAYS OF THE LORD" regardless of where others around us have taken theirs!

Have a great day STANDING FIRMLY WITH GOD'S WAY!
Carl

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Personally Significant!

There are days when we may question our significance. We may even wonder how many genuinely care about what is going on in our life? Has there ever been a point when we considered ourselves a "nobody"? Is it perhaps the thought being entertained today? Though we ought to maintain a humble view of ourselves (i.e. Romans 12:3; Galatians 6:3) we still should remember our life is significant. It has been suggested that on those days when we begin to think we are a "nobody", we ought to make a list of all the people who KNOW US BY OUR NAME! That list should start with the Lord!

As Jesus addressed the concept of being the good Shepherd willing to give His all on behalf of His sheep, we find the following encouragement regarding those who are following Him.

Jesus stated. . .
"(2) But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. (3) To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and HE CALLS HIS OWN SHEEP BY NAME and leads them out." (John 10:2-3 ESV)

According to the sixth verse, the disciples did not quite understand the figurative language Jesus was using, so He went on to clarify how He Himself was being pictured here. As Jesus continued to draw attention to the personal nature of His relationship to His sheep, twice more He emphasized. . .

"(14) I am the good shepherd. I KNOW MY OWN and my own know me," (John 10:14 ESV)

. . . and . . .

"(26) My sheep hear my voice, and I KNOW THEM, and they follow me." (John 10:27 ESV)

Yes, He KNOWS US! He KNOWS US intimately! And He longs for us to remain under His tender shepherd's care! So, remember the list with His Name at the top. We are a "somebody" for whom He laid down His life.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED TO KNOW WHO KNOWS US BEST!
Carl

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The Proper Time!

Sometimes people get the timing of doing certain things confused. They go out when they should have stayed in or are guilty of the converse. Some have stood up when they should have ducked and suffered injury because their timing was off. There are also those who were found sleeping on the job and therefore had cause to have trouble sleeping at night.

Someone has said "One must be a live, wide-awake Christian before they can fall 'asleep in Jesus.'" [original source unknown] How true it is there is the need for many to WAKE UP spiritually. (i.e. Romans 13:11; Ephesians 5:14) It is then they will be prepared for the blessing of falling "ASLEEP IN CHRIST." (1 Corinthians 15:18-20) In Paul's first letter to the church at Thessalonica, he exhorted toward the proper focus on both.

Paul warned. . .
"(5) For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. (6) So then LET US NOT SLEEP, AS OTHERS DO, but let us KEEP AWAKE and be sober." (1 Thessalonians 5:5-6 ESV)

However, Paul also comforted. . .
"(13) But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about THOSE WHO ARE ASLEEP, that you may NOT GRIEVE AS OTHERS DO WHO HAVE NO HOPE. (14) For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him THOSE WHO HAVE FALLEN ASLEEP. (15) For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede THOSE WHO HAVE FALLEN ASLEEP." (1 Thessalonians 4:13-15 ESV)

Death for us in Christ is not the loss of hope unless our only hope is for this life. (1 Corinthians 15:19) The hope we have in Christ transcends this realm into a peaceful eternity with Him. However, for now we must remain AWAKE to fulfilling the Will of God of which He presently desires us to be involved.

Perhaps when Solomon noted there being a season and time for everything under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8), he could have included a time to be AWAKE and a time to SLEEP. Just as this is so physically, it is also worth consideration spiritually. Recognizing for some things timing is everything, may we remain WIDE AWAKE to the things of this realm now so that we can experience that SWEET REST IN JESUS yet to come.

Have a great day ALERT TO LIVING FOR GOD, KNOWING THE REST WILL COME!
Carl

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What Do We REALLY Want?

In Romans chapter seven Paul discussed the idea that the law God had given was good in that it pointed out what sin was. Therefore it was not a problem with the law, but rather sin that created the struggle. (Romans 7:7-14) Paul also described the struggle we may have all experienced in finding ourselves too often doing the very things we were trying not to do. (Romans 7:15-20) The thing we need to be mindful of is WHERE ARE WE STRIVING TO KEEP OUR FOCUS? Do we lightly excuse ourselves by claiming sin is merely the result of being imperfect beings impacted by the flesh? Do we pass it off as Paul asked, "Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound?"? (Romans 6:1) He immediately went on to state, "By no means!" [ or "Certainly not!" NKJV)] (Romans 6:2 ESV) We are to acknowledge that having been baptized into Christ we have died to sin! (Romans 6:2-4) It is no longer to be our lifestyle?

Yes, we are imperfect beings. There will be sin to confess and ask forgiveness for in the future. However, where is our SINCEREST DESIRE FOCUSED? Note one verse in the midst of Paul's discussion.

Paul wrote. . .
"For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I HAVE THE DESIRE TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT, BUT NOT THE ABILITY TO CARRY IT OUT." (Romans 7:18 ESV)

Bottom line, we need God's help! We ought to praise Him for His mercy and grace! However, His grace is not to be viewed as freedom to keep on sinning. (note Jude 4) Though in and of ourselves we lack the "ability" to perfectly carry out the Will of God, how much DESIRE do we have "TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT"? Is that really where our DESIRE IS FOCUSED? To make excuses or think lightly of sin will only serve to weaken that desire! Sin must be acknowledged as sin! Living with a genuine concern more for breaking God's heart than breaking His law -- thinking more about the DESIRE to maintain a right relationship with Him -- we will find ourselves making the right choices more often. Praise God for His grace, but let it always be our greatest "DESIRE TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT"!

Have a great day LIVING TO GLADDEN THE HEART OF GOD!
Carl

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Say What?

This past week our son-in-law forwarded an audio file to me of a repair request being made at a hospital to the "helpdesk" that creates tickets for the hospital's site services. The request went as follows: "I have a crucifix that's falling apart. I need to have Jesus re-hammered onto the cross."

Jesus RE-HAMMERED to the cross? That immediately brought to mind the warning of the Hebrew writer where we read. . .

"(4) For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, (5) and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, (6) and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since THEY ARE CRUCIFYING ONCE AGAIN THE SON OF GOD to their own harm and HOLDING HIM UP TO CONTEMPT." (Hebrews 6:4-6 ESV)

It was for our sins that Jesus accepted the nails that held Him to the cross. [Though it has been suggested it was His love and not the nails that held Him there.] The death Jesus died "once for all" (Hebrews 7:27; 9:26; 10:10; Romans 6:10) is sufficient to deal with our sins. However, if we deliberately keep on sinning, what other sacrifice can we expect for our sins than what has already been given? (Hebrews 10:26) It is as if we are NAILING HIM AGAIN to that cross.

Let us not be guilty of "RE-HAMMERING" Jesus to the cross. After He died -- REMOVING THE PENALTY FOR OUR SINS -- His body was removed from the cross. The power of Jesus' blood means He did not have to do it again and again. (Hebrews 9:28) Let us therefore be watchful that we do not fall away. May we fully appreciate what Jesus accomplished on the cross and not dare be guilty of crucifying Him all over again by returning to the sins of the past. His resurrection back to life is now the assurance of eternal life for us as well. Praise God for the adequacy of the single sacrifice of Jesus that all the offerings under the old law together (note Hebrews 10:11-14) could not have fully accomplished.

Have a great day PRAISING GOD FOR THE CROSS JESUS BORE, THEN LEFT BEHIND!
Carl

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Be Strong In The Lord!

There is a lot going on in this world that can make us fearful. There continue to be terrorist attacks around the world and conflicts of various sorts and on many levels of society. Remaining vigilant is important to safeguard against loss of life. However, we also need to recognize the power of evil at work in the world that can work against the soul and that the power of God is still greater yet! Though we may at times wonder about battles that seem to be lost, ultimately we can be victors in Christ.

The last two Sunday mornings (with the plan to conclude the discussion next week) our adult Bible class has been studying the spiritual warfare and the armor God has provided for engaging in it. (Ephesians 6:10-20) However, sometimes the conflicts arise from among us, and there too we need to be watchful lest our focuses be drawn away from what God desires for our life. And ultimately we need to consider on whom we are depending. Is it ourselves? The world's help? Or God's wisdom and strength?

I received the following last January via e-mail from one of the members of our congregation.

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WARNING: BEWARE OF TERRORIST GROUPS IN CHURCH!

Latest news reports are that five terrorist cell groups have been operating in many of our churches. They have been identified as: Bin Sleepin, Bin Arguin, Bin Fightin, Bin Complainin, and Bin Missin.

Their leader, Lucifer Bin Workin, trained these groups to destroy the Body of Christ. The plan is to come into the church disguised as Christians and to work within the church to discourage, disrupt, and destroy.

However, there have been reports of a sixth group. A tiny cell known by the name Bin Prayin is actually the only effective counter terrorism force in the church. Unlike other terrorist cells, the Bin Prayin team does not blend in with whoever and whatever comes along.

Bin Prayin does whatever is needed to uplift and encourage the Body of Christ. We have noticed that the Bin Prayin cell group has different characteristics than the others. They have Bin Watchin, Bin Waitin, Bin Fastin, and Bin Longin for their Master, Jesus Christ to return.

NO CHURCH IS EXEMPT!
(However, you can spot them if you bin lookin and bin goin.)

[original author unknown]

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Are we INVOLVED? Have we reported for ACTIVE DUTY? Are we a part of the "Bin Prayin" cell? PRAYER is the best place to start because it is a sign we are looking beyond ourselves for the guidance and strength we need.

Even Paul, after listing the spiritual armor God has provided to equip us for battle, urged toward vigilance in PRAYER by stating. . .
"(18) PRAYING AT ALL TIMES in the Spirit, WITH ALL PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication FOR ALL THE SAINTS, (19) AND ALSO FOR ME, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, (20) for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak." (Ephesians 6:18-20 ESV)

May we remain one of those living and working faithfully under our Lord's command! Following Him we are assured the victory!

Have a great day BEING VIGILANT IN PRAYER AND SERVICE FOR GOD!
Carl

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Due Diligence!

As I presently sit at my laptop I can hear the chirping of baby birds behind me. I always know when their parents have brought in food because their chirping intensifies. Though I enjoy the sound of birds out in the yard, I'm not really happy with where these have nested. They have taken up residence in our attic. A couple years ago I replaced the screening over one section of the round vent holes just under the eaves of our house because a bird a pecked through and made a nest. However, this year they have returned and there are now two sections I need to re-cover because they have pecked through once again. I should have been more watchful and re-covered those vent holes before these birds had a chance to nest, lay, and hatch their eggs because now I must wait so as to not harm these babies.

Consider this in relation to our THOUGHTS. Oh, how quickly they can come to mind whether we want them or not. However, just like birds we may not be able to keep from landing and so with due diligence SHOO AWAY before they begin creating a nest to stay, it needs to be the same with THOUGHTS. When the wrong THOUGHTS come to mind we need to SHOO THEM AWAY before they have a chance to settle in. Then we can turn our focus toward that which ought to remain in our mind.

Paul urged. . .
"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)

May the THOUGHTS that fall into any of those categories be what we allow to NEST IN OUR MIND! All the rest, let us exercise due diligence in shooing them away. It is the THOUGHTS that are God glorifying that will hatch into proper actions.

Have a great day WITH WHOLESOME THOUGHTS MAKING THEIR HOME WITH US!
Carl

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Testifying!

John the Baptist BORE WITNESS TO THE TRUTH of Jesus. (John 5:33) Jesus told Pilate He had come into the world "to BEAR WITNESS TO THE TRUTH." (John 18:37) The Apostle John also testified TO THE TRUTH "the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world." (1 John 4:14 ESV) Paul even testified TO THE TRUTH in Rome. (Acts 23:11; 26:22) THE TRUTH is important! Testimony ought always to be true and what this world needs most is to know THE TRUTH, because it is only THE TRUTH that can set us free. (John 8:32)

It has been remarked that God hasn't made many of us lawyers, but He has subpoenaed all of us as witnesses! Does our life testify to THE TRUTH of God's Word and its wisdom for daily living? Are we also testifying verbally to the difference Jesus -- Who is THE TRUTH (John 14:6) -- has made in our life? If we are not, having become Christians we could be charged with committing "spiritual perjury" for conveying -- either by life or words -- a testimony different than THE TRUTH we have come to know.

When Peter and John were told by Jewish officials to stop speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus, the Apostles firmly declared. . .
"(19) But Peter and John answered them, 'Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, (20) for WE CANNOT BUT SPEAK OF WHAT WE HAVE SEEN AND HEARD.'" (Acts 4:19-20 ESV)

They were compelled to speak! They could not keep from speaking! May we also be so compelled TO SPEAK THE TRUTH we have come to know of Jesus and the renewal to our life He has made possible.

Have a great day SPEAKING THE WHOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH!
Carl

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Moved In!

When we have an honored guest in our home we generally try to be as hospitable as possible. However, if that guest moved in, would we begin to relax back into old habits and stop being as accommodating with them as we had been previously? Would we begin to treat them "as family"? (Unfortunately family members are sometimes taken for granted and may not always be treated well.) How long does it take for one to overstay their welcome? Perhaps that depends on who it is and how they settle into the schedules surrounding our home life. However, how would we react with one who moved in with the expectation we do everything THEIR WAY? Do we see a problem with that? Would that be considered going a bit too far? Is that where we would draw the line? Would we tell them, "You can't expect to come in here and change everything to suit you!" Yet, is that not our Lord's expectation? (i.e. 2 Corinthians 5:17)

Someone has posed the question, "Is Jesus Christ considered as an honored guest in your home, or as an abiding resident?" [original source unknown]

Jesus stated. . .
"(21) 'Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.' (22) Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, 'Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?' (23) 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 14:21-23 ESV)

Is Jesus an ABIDING RESIDENT in our life? If so, are we continuing to seek to PLEASE HIM? With Jesus moved in, self must be moved over to provide room for Him. Old habits need to be set aside or tossed out as we strive to take on a lifestyle that accommodates HIS PRESENCE. Do OUR ACTIONS live up to HIS ASPIRATIONS? Are OUR AMBITIONS paralleling HIS AIMS for our life? Do OUR DECISIONS accommodate HIS DESIRES? Is OUR PLANNING in accord with HIS PREFERENCES? Do OUR PRIORITIES reflect HIS PURPOSES for living? Do OUR WISHES correlate with HIS WILL?

Let us be eagerly willing to remove the clutter (ideas, habits, disorder, etc.) from our life so as to provide a suitable residence for our Lord. We can have no better life than one wherein Jesus continually resides. Allowing Him to be at home within us now prepares us for when we will be taken to be at home with Him for eternity. (2 Corinthians 5:8) May we let our life be wholly HIS HOME!

Have a great day GIVING CHRIST FREE REIGN IN EVERY ASPECT OF OUR LIFE!
Carl

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Never Run Dry!

During the days of Elijah -- at a time when there was a great drought -- he met a widow who was gathering sticks in order to bake the last bit of flour and oil she had. Elijah told her to first make him a little cake of the flour and oil and then make some afterward for herself and her son. He encouraged her that the jar of flour and the jug of oil WOULD NOT BE EMPTY until the day God sent rain again. And it was so. (1 Kings 17:8-16)

During days of Elisha (who followed Elijah) there was a widow who was threatened with having her two children taken to be the slaves of her creditor. Having asked and found that the woman had nothing left but a jar of oil in her house, Elisha told her to borrow empty vessels from all of her neighbors -- and not just a few -- and then go in behind closed doors and fill them. As long as she had empty vessels to fill, her jar of oil DID NOT RUN OUT! (2 Kings 4:1-7)

Imagine, having a vessel (a container) that never ran dry! Every time we needed to draw from its contents, there would be an ample supply! Would we say it was a miracle? Would we believe God had to be involved in order for it to be so?

A mother can give all her love to all her children without diminishing the love she also has for her husband. She can give and give from what would seem to be a BOTTOMLESS WELL OF LOVE. Think of our own love that we have for family and for others. Can we not be such a vessel when God is involved in our life; as we acknowledge HIS NEVER ENDING LOVE for us? (note Psalm 103:17)

Someone has said, "The ultimate miracle of love is this -- that love is given to us to give to one another." [original source unknown]

John stated. . .
"(19) WE LOVE BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED US." (1 John 4:19 ESV)

Do we know THAT LOVE? Are we experiencing THAT LOVE? Is THAT LOVE filling our life in such a way that we can continue to draw from it to extend it to others? To "know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge" we "may BE FILLED with all the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:19 ESV) and one aspect of the essence of GOD IS LOVE. (1 John 4:8) Therefore, as GOD CONTINUES TO LOVE US, we should HAVE AMPLE LOVE FOR OTHERS as well. LOVE is an essential ingredient of life! To His glory, let us be a vessel of GOD'S LOVE that never runs dry because we are allowing Him to fill us.

Have a great day AS AN OPEN CONTAINER OF CHRISTIAN LOVE!
Carl

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Ignorance Is Bliss?

Some people think "Ignorance Is Bliss"! They assume that what they don't know won't hurt them. However, there are really few areas where that might be true. An area of life where this idea is definitely not true is with regard to GOD AND HIS WILL! If the world could be saved by ignorance, the best thing for us to do is never share the message of Jesus with them, thus not giving them the opportunity to reject it. However that is not the way God has focused on it.

As Paul had walked around in Athens, he noticed that the "city was full of idols" (Acts 17:16); statues and monuments set up to honor various gods. He also noticed one set up with the inscription "To the unknown god." (Acts 17:23) As Paul was given the opportunity to speak to a group who gathered to hear the latest things of the day (Acts 17:21), he shared the truth about the ONLY TRUE GOD. He also mentioned the subject of "ignorance." (You can read the whole story in Acts 17:16-34)

Paul's message regarding "ignorance" was as follows:
"(30) The times of ignorance God overlooked, BUT NOW HE COMMANDS ALL PEOPLE EVERYWHERE TO REPENT, (31) because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead." (Acts 17:30-31 ESV)

God has given us His written word (the Bible) so that we can know what His desire is for us. He has revealed to us what He expects of us. He has made available to us the knowledge of the way of salvation AS HE HAS LAID IT OUT.

John wrote. . .
"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)

Yes, GOD WANTS US TO KNOW! AREN'T YOU GLAD? It is the KNOWLEDGE OF GOD AND HIS WILL that is truly bliss because of the eternal hope of which He has assured us in Christ.

Have a great day DELIGHTING IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 04/18/1998 (edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

.

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Our Attention!

There are things which occur that grab our attention. There are awesome happenings we may behold in a lifetime and then watch as time moves on in spite of them. Today's date always strikes me because of an event I observed thirty years ago today. I actually find it amazing that thirty years have passed since then, but the images are still fresh in my mind. After a couple months of doing a little belching of smoke and light ash, May 18, 1980 was the first major eruption of Mount Saint Helens in the southwest part of the state of Washington and we were living in the area at the time. We were crossing the interstate highway that Sunday morning -- a place where there was a clear view of the mountain -- on our way to the church building when she blew her top and sent ash spewing high into the sky; a large cloud that began to block out the sun before blowing east of where we were. Then we watched in awe as that grey cloud generated flashes of lightening. It was truly an attention grabbling display of the power of God's creation. Then, on the following Sunday morning we experienced the second major eruption, waking up to pitch dark due to the ash falling in our area. Today it is amazing how life has returned to a region that looked almost like a barren moonscape following the eruption's devastation.

There are things which happen that cause some to think it must be the end. It is true we should always be prepared for whenever the end may come, but in the face of the varied happenings in this life and the time of whenever the end does come (Matthew 24:36), should not our focus as Christians remain the same?

One of the psalmists wrote. . .
"(1) GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, a very present help in trouble. (2) THEREFORE WE WILL NOT FEAR though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, (3) though its waters roar and foam, THOUGH THE MOUNTAINS TREMBLE at its swelling." (Psalm 46:1-3 ESV)

All that is around us is only for this life. (note 2 Peter 3:10) However, OUR LIFE WITH GOD IS FOR AN ETERNITY and He still has the power to make it so! Therefore, regardless of what is happening around us, may He continue to hold our attention as we place our UNSHAKEABLE TRUST IN HIM Who has power over all things!

Have a great day TRUSTING THE GOD WHO IS UNSHAKEABLE!
Carl

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Properly Equipped!

When a skateboarder goes to a skateboard park, in wisdom they put on their kneepads, elbow pads, and helmet. The football player puts on the cleats, shoulder pads and helmet. The hockey goalie wears the helmet, facemask, gloves, and all the padding covering their front, arms, and legs. Deciding to utilize only some of the protective gear would not provide adequate protection. The skateboarder does not know beforehand how they might fall when involved in their sport, the football player does not always know how and where they will be hit during a game, and the hockey goalie knows the puck can fly quickly from any direction. The wise choice is to properly utilize all the protective gear made available for the particular activity.

As Paul encouraged the Ephesians regarding the spiritual battle in which we as Christians are engaged, he urged. . .

"(11) Put on THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. (12) For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (13) Therefore take up THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." (Ephesians 6:11-13 ESV)

Put on and take up THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD! To state it twice must mean Paul did not want the wisdom to be missed. There is the need to put on THE WHOLE ARMOR because our spiritual foe will try to attack us anywhere possible. Just one piece will not be sufficient. What would we choose to leave off and so be exposed? The belt, the breastplate, the shoes (or shin guards), the shield, the helmet, or the sword? (Ephesians 6:14-17) Is it not all important; the truth, the righteousness, the readiness, the faith, the salvation, and God's Word accompanied by unceasing prayer? (Ephesians 6:14-18) What would we possibly dare to go without? We need THE WHOLE ARMOR in order to be properly protected and press on victoriously in the strength of the Lord's might. (Ephesians 6:10) May we accept all that the Lord has provided for use in the spiritual battle that rages on, being thankful for the power beyond ourselves that assures the victory.

Have a great day SUITABLY SUITED UP FOR PRESSING ON VICTORIOUSLY WTH CHRIST!
Carl

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Slow Down!

Sometimes when we get in a hurry accidents happen or mess-ups result. Taking the time to think through what we are doing and how we are doing it can not only save time in the long run (such as not having to fix it or do it all over again), but can also spare us needless frustration. Just as there is the need to slow down when entering "danger zones" so as to not hit something that can cause damage or injury, the same is true with regard to relationships. A "danger zone" in the realm of relationships is ANGER due to misunderstandings in our interaction with others. When we are too quick to react we can cause damage or injury to those relationships.

James exhorted toward understanding the wisdom of being quick to hear (or listen), slow to speak, and SLOW TO BECOME ANGRY. (James 1:19) The problem with being quick to speak and quick to become angry is we may have too quickly come to the wrong conclusion about a situation. It is far too easy to quickly make assumptions that distort the reality of what may have transpired.

Solomon urged. . .
"Whoever is SLOW TO ANGER HAS GREAT UNDERSTANDING, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly." (Proverbs 14:29 ESV)

To exercise patience in challenging situations can be a sign of great wisdom. It is impatience that leads me to frustration and anger. Have you experienced that struggle as well? Being SLOW TO ANGER gives us time to think things through before we find ourselves assuming we know more of a situation than we might. It also holds the door open for calm communication to take place between parties for the sake of clarification and apology if needed.

The "GREAT UNDERSTANDING" may be revealed in considering perhaps it was myself who was wrong rather than the other person. We must be humble enough to admit this and flying off the handle makes it much harder to do later. Also, perhaps we did not communicate clearly and were therefore misunderstood. Perhaps the other person did not see us. Maybe they had other things on their mind. Perhaps they were having a bad day. Perhaps. . . . This is the wisdom of humility in giving others the benefit of the doubt rather than judgmentally assuming an intentional snub or wrong has been done.

Later in Proverbs we read Solomon's statement. . .
"GOOD SENSE MAKES ONE SLOW TO ANGER, and it is his glory to overlook an offense." (Proverbs 19:11 ESV)

May we not be so fast in assuming we know more than we might. It is to our credit if we overlook an offense. Therefore, let us slow down and consider what we can do to make the situation or relationship better. It will be to our glory to be bigger than the situations that might otherwise bring us down.

Have a great day SHOWING GOOD SENSE IN DEALING WITH OTHERS!
Carl

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In The Credits!

For a number of years my wife and I have made it a practice to sit through the entire credits at the end of a movie. Sometimes this has made us the last two people sitting in the theater. Though the long list sometimes passes by too quickly to read every name, we often comment to each other when a name catches our attention. In spite of the reality we don't know these people, each name represents a person who was involved in making the production possible. Each role -- large or small -- was significant to the whole!

How often has a worship assembly been viewed and come away from similar to a movie experience? Becoming so used to fast paced drama and the flashiness of professionalism, have we too easily become bored? Has worship become something to entertain and please us rather than being that in which we are a PARTICIPANT TO PLEASE GOD? Do we experience a variety of emotions (i.e. joy, sadness, meditation, etc.), but then leave as if nothing happened?

As Jesus encountered the woman at the well where they discussed the contrast between the Samaritans worshipping on a mountain and the Jews in Jerusalem (John 4:19-22), Jesus went on to state. . .
"(23) But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. (24) God is spirit, and those who worship him MUST WORSHIP IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH." (John 4:23-24 ESV)

Acknowledging the kind of worshipers "the Father is seeking", is our worship together more about seeking an experience or seeking God "in spirit and truth"? As we leave the assembly of the church, may our individual names be found "in the credits" as God has observed our PARTICIPATION in the worship that has taken place there. May our part be shown under the listings of communed, sang, prayed, absorbed the truth of God's Word, and left a changed person, reenergized to practice the Will of God through being a living sacrifice of spiritual worship (Romans 12:1) to God. It is not what we see, but how we are INVOLVED that will make the difference in our life.

Have a great day CREDITED BY GOD FOR THE HEART OF WORSHIP AND LIVING!
Carl

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Helping Back Up!

To have someone help us when we have physically fallen down is usually greatly appreciated. The hand extended is most often eagerly grasped as we are pulled back up onto our feet. Unfortunately that is not always the case when the falling is spiritual. Sometimes the attitude is wrong on both sides. The helper can be arrogant while the fallen may wish others would just mind their own business. However, the greatest good of others and our own self is the healthy focus for us to maintain. This actually requires genuine HUMILITY on both sides.

In Paul's letter to the church at Galatia he urged. . .
"(1) Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should RESTORE him IN A SPIRIT OF GENTLENESS. KEEP WATCH ON YOURSELF, lest you too be tempted. (2) Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (3) For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself." (Galatians 6:1-3 ESV)

The focus is to be two directional; toward others and self. Jesus also addressed this in the sermon on the mount. (note Matthew 7:3-5) Those who see themselves as "spiritual" must guard against the attitude, "It's too bad this individual is not as spiritual as I am." Some appear to take on the attitude of being God's spiritual "policeman" (or woman) and almost seem to delight in being the one to point out error. [Yes, I will be careful of my judgment here, but I have seen the fruit of such.] They may even view themselves as so spiritual they are above being tempted. That can be a very dangerous position in which to place oneself, which points to the obvious reason for Paul to urge watchfulness with regard to self also becoming tempted.

In his first letter to the church at Corinth Paul also warned. . .
"(12) Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall." (1 Corinthians 10:12 ESV)

To benefit others, we must approach them "in a spirit of gentleness" and in the HUMILITY that we still have areas of needed growth in our own life. We must HUMBLY guard against thinking we are really something and thus deceive ourselves into thinking we have spiritually arrived!

Now, when we are on the receiving end of needed spiritual guidance and being lifted back up, we also must be HUMBLE enough to accept the help others are giving without becoming judgmental regarding why they are doing it. Hopefully such will be done gently and we can thank God we have Christian brethren who love us enough to help us grow.

As we find ourselves at either end of the helping hand during our Christian walk, may we recognize the right attitude on both sides for restoration to take place. By maintaining HUMILITY, rather than becoming our brother's keeper we can simply be our brother's (sister's) loving brother (or sister). May we HUMBLY seek to grow up together in the Lord.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A PROPER ATTITUDE REGARDING GODLY CONCERN!
Carl

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Amazed!

Has anyone ever made a DISCOVERY about us that AMAZED them; something they had not known that took them by surprise? Because of how much walking I do around our small community on quite a number of occasions I have had people come up to me saying things like, "I saw you driving the other day and I was shocked." or "I didn't even know you had a car." Walking into our local auto parts store one day someone even asked me why I was there! What did I need car parts for?

Matthew records an occasion when Jesus was entering Capernaum and was approached by a centurian whose servant was lying paralyzed and he wanted Jesus to heal him. (Matthew 8:5-13, with a parallel account found in Luke 7:1-10) Jesus was willing to go to the servant, but the centurian did not feel worthy of Jesus coming into his home. Therefore he said, "but only say the word, and my servant will be healed." (Mathew 8:8) This centurian was asking for a long distance healing. He had faith that Jesus could do it without even coming into direct contact with his servant. Do we find that amazing? Jesus did and drew attention to this AMAZING EXAMPLE OF FAITH!

We read. . .
"(10) When JESUS heard this, he MARVELED and said to those who followed him, "Truly, I tell you, WITH NO ONE IN ISRAEL HAVE I FOUND SUCH FAITH." (Matthew 8:10 ESV)

What a DISCOVERY OF FAITH found with this centurian! But where was the faith of the Jews? Too often it was a lack of belief or faith at which Jesus was left to marvel. (i.e. Mark 6:6) If Jesus marveled at such a faith, might the world as well when it is clearly visible in our life in spite of the challenges that befall us in this world?

With AMAZING FAITH in the One Who has power to do all things and fulfill every promise He has made, we can be filled with an AMAZING PEACE that surpasses the understanding of those around us. (Philippians 4:7) Such faith will also sustain an AMAZING JOY that is both "inexpressible" (1 Peter 1:8) and "overflowing" (2 Corinthians 7:4) even in the face of trials. And we can have all of this because of the AMAZING GRACE God has made available to us through Christ. May all this be the AMAZING DISCOVERY of those around us as they observe us living by faith. This will help them to see the real difference Jesus has made in our life and can make in theirs as well!

Have a great day HELPING OTHERS DISCOVER THE AMAZING LIFE JESUS PROVIDES!
Carl

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Lists!

Lists! Do we make them? What are they for? Shopping lists bring together the items we want to remember when we get to the store. "To Do" lists remind us of tasks we wish to get done and may even be useful in prioritizing what needs to be completed most if there is not time to complete the list. We may have a prayer list, a goal list, a friend list, a "Things I want to do before I die" list, and this list could go on.

Lists can be a good thing. In a few words listed down a column we have a concise reminder. Lists can provide an easy at-a-glance means of keeping in focus what is of greatest significance. Reading through the Scriptures we even find lists that are of great significance. God gave the ten commandments to the nation of Israel. (Exodus 20:3-17) Jesus gave the eight beatitudes to those who came to listen to His teaching. (Matthew 5:3-10, though the eighth's principle continues through verse 12) Both of these lists alone could change the whole dynamic of things in this world if they were understood and properly applied.

It is interesting to note that the ten commandments were listed by God on stone while we might consider the beatitudes would be well to be written on our hearts, which is actually where God stated His law would be written. (i.e. Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10) Isn't it on the heart where God truly desires His Plans and Will to be written so that they will be remembered and carried out? However, where do we write our lists and with what?

Perhaps we recognize how our plans at times need to be adjusted in order to fit into what God seems to be bringing about. Therefore we might consider a pencil -- with a good eraser handy -- could be the proper writing utensil for making our life list. Certainly, living faithful to God, getting to Heaven, and striving to help others join us on that path could be written with permanent marker. Such should always be kept in view. Nevertheless, we don't always see everything God may take us through and have us do along the way.

James exhorted. . .
"(13) Come now, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit' -- (14) yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. (15) Instead you ought to say, 'IF THE LORD WILLS, WE WILL LIVE AND DO THIS OR THAT.'" (James 4:13-15 ESV)

Listing God glorifying life goals is a good thing. However, we do need to bear in mind that "IF THE LORD WILLS" those varied things will be accomplished as we go about living our day-to-day lives. As we plan, let us allow it to be the Lord Who establishes our steps. (Proverbs 16:9) In this way we will fulfill what He most desires for us to accomplish during our relatively short journey in this realm.

Have a great day SEEKING GOD'S GUIDANCE IN PRIORITIZING OUR LIFE!
Carl

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Sailing On!

Living in a seaport community, I never tire of watching the boats out on the water. Last week my wife and I enjoyed a little time out on the water in our kayak. Bobbing gently out in the bay was actually therapeutic for my wife, having had a very busy day at work. Though our kayak is very buoyant and cuts through the water quite easily, we still do not venture out into stormy waters. However, it does amaze me how well some of the sailboats and other larger vessels handle the strong winds and high waves that can arise in our area. Heading directly into the waves rather than being broadsided by them helps keep the boats afloat. You see, it is not all the water on the outside that creates a problem, it is the smaller amount that gets inside the boat that can cause it to begin to sink.

Someone has said, "The Christian is not ruined by living in the world, but by the world living in him." [original source unknown] Yes, that is what begins to sink and ruin the life. This earthly realm does have its storms. Winds of worldliness blow against us and the world's wayward waves attempt to wash over and into our lives. (i.e. Ephesians 4:14) When such is recognized in our life we need to pump it back out so as to keep afloat.

In Jesus' prayer for His disciples prior to His arrest and crucifixion, Jesus stated. . .
"(14) I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because THEY ARE NOT OF THE WORLD, just AS I AM NOT OF THE WORLD. (15) I do NOT ASK THAT YOU TAKE THEM OUT OF THE WORLD, but that you KEEP THEM FROM THE EVIL ONE. (16) They are NOT OF THE WORLD, just AS I AM NOT OF THE WORLD." (John 17:14-16 ESV)

It is challenging to be in the world. Being of the Lord, sometimes we just don't fit in. Recently a brother in our congregation described it as trying to put a square peg in a round hole. However, the real threat is when the world gets in us! We, like the Lord's disciples, are to remain in the world, but not of it. We are to keep the world's influences from swamping our life as we aim to influence it toward the Will of God. May we seek God's help in keeping us from "the evil one" so that our life may remain afloat as we sail on with the Lord piloting our life. Remember, it is the set of the sails, and not the gales, that determines the direction we go.

Have a great day SHOWING THE WAY TO GOD'S SAFE HARBOR!
Carl

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Deep Rooted Service!

In Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus, he noted the proper attitude of the members of the church toward one another, husbands and wives with each other, children and parents, and slaves and masters. (Ephesians 5-6) In all of these relationships something that needed to be kept in the forefront of their minds was the fact they were all under Christ. The honor, submission, and interaction were to be "out of reverence for Christ" (5:21), "as to the Lord" (5:22 & 6:7), "as Christ" (5:25), and "as you would Christ". (6:5) With the desire to reverence Christ and please Him held above all else, powerful things can happen in other relationships.

When Paul addressed slaves he stated. . .
"(5) Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, WITH A SINCERE HEART, as you would Christ, (6) not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, DOING THE WILL OF GOD FROM THE HEART, (7) rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, (8) knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free." (Ephesians 6:5-8 ESV)

Whether one was "slave or free" (6:8) made no difference. The service rendered was to be HEART SERVICE. [This principle can even apply to employee/employer relationships.] Paul also went on to remind masters that they needed to bear in mind they too were under the same Master in Heaven. (6:9) Rather than service performed being in relation to the watchful eye of the one giving the orders, merely to please people (i.e. the master or the boss), or even dependent on a suitable reward from them, it was to be "as to the Lord", knowing that the reward would ultimately come from Him! That is good reason to put the SINCERE (genuine, pure, and undivided) HEART into it. However, it really goes even deeper than that! There is a difference in the Greek between verses 5 and 6 that we may miss in our English translations. In fact, after checking several translations I only found two (the Darby and Young's Literal translations) that gave the literal rendering of the Greek other than in a footnote. In verse 5 "HEART" is translated properly from "kardias". However, in verse 6 "HEART" is translated from "psuche" which is actually the "SOUL"! The service rendered was not to be just from the HEART, but also from the SOUL; the deeper eternal essence of our being! Is that where service is rooted in our life? Being properly motivated from deep within our eternal essence will help keep our service as to the Lord. May the Lord and His glory and honor be the motivation behind all that we do. Rather than living for temporal reasons, let us live based on eternal ones.

Have a great day SERVING FROM THE DEEPEST DEPTH OF OUR BEING!
Carl

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Still To Be Honored!

Today is marked on the calendar and celebrated in America as "Mother's Day." It is a day to celebrate motherhood and all the work mothers do and have done to make a difference for their children, families, communities, and even within the church. Sometimes on this day women in the Bible are focused on in bulletin articles and sermons, and though such are meant to be encouraging, some mothers feel a little bit guilty during such lessons for not quite measuring up to those Biblical examples. However, in spite of their imperfection (and fathers have it too) the work God has chosen women to fulfill is a very HONORABLE and NOBLE one.

Though I am a father and grandfather, my own mother is still very significant to me. She remains a great encourager of my work. Just as she showed interest in the varied activities of my life while growing up, she still has an interest in what I do today. As my mother, she is still to be HONORED, RESPECTED, and ACKNOWLEDGE for the work she did as she played her part in making me what I am today.

In Paul's first letter to the church at Corinth he stated. . .
"(12) for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God." (1 Corinthians 11:12 ESV)

Significant? Most certainly! All a part of fulfilling God's plan! If there were no mothers, where would we be?

As we go about the activities of the day, do we find ourselves hearing the voice of our mother, reminding us how we ought to live? Is there a sense in which her counsel has become a conscience to guide us even when she is not around. How many have felt when growing up that their mother had eyes in every place and therefore one need be on their best behavior?

Solomon stated. . .
"(20) My son, keep your father's commandment, and FORSAKE NOT YOUR MOTHER'S TEACHING. (21) Bind them ON YOUR HEART ALWAYS; tie them around your neck. (22) When you walk, THEY WILL LEAD YOU; when you lie down, THEY WILL WATCH OVER YOU; and when you awake, THEY WILL TALK WITH YOU." (Proverbs 6:20-22 ESV)

Thank God for those lessons our mothers have planted within our minds. Let them remain with us as Solomon described. Yes, mothers are to be HONORED. (Ephesians 6:2) May it be so, not because we fear them, but because we love them and truly appreciate all they have given on our behalf. Thank you God, for your gift of mothers!

Have a great day ACKNOWLEDGING THE NOBLE ROLE OF MOTHERS!
Carl

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Faith's Will!

A man brought his son to the disciples to be healed of an unclean spirit, but they were unable to do so. (Mark 9:18) Being brought to Jesus, He asked the man how long his son had been this way and the father stated, "From childhood." (Mark 9:21)

Reading further the words of this father and Jesus' response. . .
"(22) "And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But IF YOU CAN do anything, have compassion on us and HELP US." (23) And Jesus said to him, " 'IF YOU CAN'! All things are possible for one who believes." (24) Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I BELIEVE; HELP MY UNBELIEF!" " (Mark 9:22-24 ESV)

Have we not found ourselves there in the struggle of growing in faith? Someone has said, "Faith is not believing that God can; it is knowing that He will." How often have we struggled with the head knowledge of believing what God "can" do, but failed in living in the ASSURANCE OF BELIEVING He "will" do? We do believe, but WE NEED HELP where we struggle IN MAINTAINING COMPLETE FAITH to believe "all things are possible with God." (Mark 10:27 ESV)

Remember how the Hebrew writer described FAITH where he wrote. . .
"Now faith is THE ASSURANCE OF THINGS HOPED FOR, the conviction of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1 ESV)

The Greek word translated here as "ASSURANCE" is "hupostasis" ("hupo", under, and "histemi", to stand) and literally means "a standing under" or "support". [source: W. E. Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words] This word has been translated "substance" (KJV, NKJV), but with it representing the support under which something can stand we can see how it rightfully refers to "assurance". W. E. Vine's dictionary goes on to state the word used here in Hebrews 11:1 may "signify a title-deed, as giving a guarantee, or reality."

We may not always know the how and the when, but let us always trust that the Lord WILL HELP US. May we be encouraged by all God's power was revealed in its ability to do throughout the Scriptures as we live trusting that HE WILL work all things for our good (Romans 8:28) as we strive to live in accordance with His purposes.

Have a great day WILLING TO LIVE FOR THE ONE WHOSE WILL IS FOR US!
Carl

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Stepping Purposefully!

There are times when people put their foot down, making it clear where they stand and that with which they will or will not go along. Where we put our foot down, where we plant both feet, and where we allow our feet to go is to be given serious consideration. Whose will is behind our foot placement and what is the expectation of blessing associated with it?

As Joshua was commissioned to lead the nation of Israel into the promised land, we read. . .
"(1) After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' assistant, (2) 'Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them, to the people of Israel. (3) EVERY PLACE THAT THE SOLE OF YOUR FOOT WILL TREAD UPON I HAVE GIVEN TO YOU, just as I promised to Moses.'" (Joshua 1:1-3 ESV)

God was poised to greatly bless the nation of Israel, provided they continued in obedience to Him. What a blessing to hear that everyplace the sole of Joshua's foot would tread, that place would become their possession. Though we understand the "promised land" and rest of which we are seeking is the Heavenly eternal one, (Hebrews 4:8-11), what about where WE TREAD presently in this realm?

Consider our own life with regard to each step we take. Certainly we have our Heavenly destination in mind, but what about blessing associated with where we PLACE OUR FEET today? As we surrender more fully to God's Will working in and through us, could not God bring about a blessing there? Wherever our FEET TREAD, are we seeking to glorify Him? Everyplace we step are we desiring His purposes to be fulfilled? Each place we stand is it a stand for God? Everywhere we go, are we seeking to stake a claim for God and His Sovereign Will? If this is where our focus remains, then there is potential for God to bring about His blessing wherever our "FOOT WILL TREAD." May our daily foot placement be what God desires it to be!

Have a great day BEING GOD'S BLESSING WHEREVER WE GO!
Carl

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Too Preoccupied?

The example of Paul being a genuine servant of God is a marvelous one. It seems he was always able to maintain a proper perspective regardless of the situation. He remained humble though he had been the recipient of marvelous insight. (note 2 Corinthians 12:1-10) He would still rejoice when the truth was taught even by some who were not properly motivated (Philippians 1:18), perhaps even creating some challenges for him in the process. (Philippians 1:17) Paul did not allow too much focus on himself to allow his nose to get out of joint if he was not always treated well. He also did not allow persecution to stop his ministry. What seems to have made the difference was where Paul's focus continually centered. Paul trusted the Lord to sustain him (Philippians 4:13) and kept his teaching centered in the message of salvation in Christ.

When Paul began his preaching in Corinth, we read. . .
"(5) When Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia, PAUL WAS OCCUPIED WITH THE WORD, testifying to the Jews that the Christ was Jesus." (Acts 18:5 ESV)

When the notice "OCCUPIED" is hung on a door handle, it implies that people are in that room. It is no longer available. There are bathroom doors which have an alternating "Vacant/Occupied" message exposed in relation to the door being unlocked or locked. A chair that is OCCUPIED is no longer available to others who might still be standing. Yes, it is all about a place being taken up by someone or something else.

The Greek word used by Luke in recording this history of Paul's visit to Corinth is "suneicheto" from "sunecho" ("sun" meaning "together" and "echo" meaning "to hold"). W.E. Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words points to its literal meaning as "a holding together or compressing" and that it was used for "the narrowing of a way." Can we see how Paul had narrowed his focus to what was of the greatest importance? "PAUL WAS OCCUPIED WITH THE WORD." That was why he was there and Christ was kept central to the message he preached. (note also 1 Corinthians 2:2 and 15:3-4) It is true Paul OCCUPIED some of his time making tents (Acts 18:2-3) to help support himself while at Corinth, however he was most intent (no pun intended) on preaching the Gospel of Jesus.

I find it interesting that Luke used the same word in Acts 7:57 for those who "stopped" ("sunechon", from "sunecho") their ears as they rushed forward to stone Stephen as he had preached regarding Christ. It appears -- due to what already OCCUPIED their minds -- they had no room for the message of Jesus.

It is so easy to become "preoccupied" with ourselves, with preconceived ideas, with what others are doing to us, or with other urgent issues of life. When this happens we become less OCCUPIED with what is of greatest importance. Are we OCCUPIED WITH THE WORD; daily reading it, meditating on it, applying it to daily living, sharing it, etc.? To be so OCCUPIED will guard against us being distracted from fulfilling the Will of God as we go about our daily life. There is much that can OCCUPY our time. It is the Word of God that will not only hold our life together, but our focus as well through life's varied situations. May we keep our focus on God's Word as we stop our ears from being swayed by the ideologies of the world around us.

Have a great day LIVING A CHRIST OCCUPIED LIFE!
Carl

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Consistency!

The story has been related of when a missionary was speaking to a group of Hindu women, he observed one of the women quietly walk away during the middle of the lesson. However, he also saw her return a few moments later, appearing to listen even more intently than before. After finishing, the missionary asked the woman why she had left. Her response was, "I was so interested in the wonderful things you were saying that I went to ask your servant if you live like you teach and he said that you do. So, I came back to hear more about Jesus." [original source: bulletin clipping]

Is that not what the world wants to see; a people who genuinely PRACTICE WHAT THEY PREACH? Is that not what the world needs to see? Is that not what we need to be about? One of the reasons Jesus so powerfully impacted those who were open to the truth was the consistency between what He said and did. That was very much unlike many of the teachers of the day. (note Matthew 23:3)

My regular walking has made my presence in our community quite visible. I remember an occasion a few years ago when a woman I encountered while walking to the post office stated, "If your sermons are like your walking, you might be worth listening to." Yes, my LIFE WALK must be consistent with my preaching if I am to be taken seriously.

At the beginning of writing his history of the church and the acts of the Apostles (the book of Acts), Luke referred back to the gospel he had written of the life and teachings of Jesus as he wrote. . .
"(1) In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with ALL THAT JESUS BEGAN TO DO AND TEACH,(2) until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen." (Acts 1:1-2 ESV)

Jesus is the most consistent example we could ever find between TEACHING AND PRACTICING. If we are to be Christ-like, His manner of consistency must remain our aim. This is the best way for the truth we believe to be believable to those with whom we share the Good News of Jesus. As we live true to Jesus, the example of our life will be true to the message we share, and thus it will be Jesus, "The Truth" (John 14:6), to Whom we will be drawing the attention. May His wisdom for life be clearly seen so that His hope for eternity may also be embraced by others.

Have a great day LIVING A BELIEVABLE LIFE IN CHRIST!
Carl

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A Living Or A Life?

Have we ever seen someone whose life focus seemed to be that of working to eat so they could work so they could eat so they could work? Perhaps it is the picture of one who is alive, but in a sense not really living. It is true one needs to eat in order to have the nourishment and energy to work and work is necessary to provide a living in order to buy the food the body needs. However, with life merely boiled down to such a focus, where is the sense of PURPOSE? What is it they are LIVING FOR?

It has been stated, "Life is tragic for the person who has plenty to live on and nothing to live for." [Robert Fisk] Does that remind us of the rich fool who needed to build bigger barns to horde away his crops? (Luke 12:16-20) Yes he had "ample goods laid up for many years" (Luke 12:19 ESV) and therefore plenty to live on, but what did he have to LIVE FOR? When his life was required of him (Luke 12:20), what good was all of that for him then?

Jesus warned. . .
"(21) So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and IS NOT RICH TOWARD GOD." (Luke 12:21 ESV)

How many are so focused on the here-and-now they have given little or no thought to the future. Yes, we are to live with purpose now (God's purposes), but with the acknowledgment there is something grander beyond this realm we are to be LIVING FOR? How many have spent so much time making a living they have no life? How do your goals for life relate to such? Planning your education and career options, are you leaving room for how GOD'S PURPOSES can be fulfilled and lives can be impacted (family, co-workers, neighbors, etc.) with a view toward an eternity to LIVE FOR? We all ought to plan and live in a manner others can see we have a view on more than just the things in this realm.

Jesus urged. . .
"(19) Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, (20) but LAY UP FOR YOURSELVES TREASURES IN HEAVEN, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. (21) For WHERE YOUR TREASURE IS, THERE YOUR HEART WILL BE ALSO." (Matthew 6:19-21 ESV)

Having plenty to live on is not a sin. However putting our trust there and leaving GOD'S PURPOSES out of the picture is where the trouble rests. Paul urged Timothy to exhort the wealthy to be "rich in good works" (1 Timothy 6:18) so as to store up what would provide a good foundation for the future. In this way they would be able to "take hold of that which is TRULY LIFE." (1 Timothy 6:19 ESV)

The manner in which we invest our life now can be of eternal consequence. Yes, how tragic to come to this life's end realizing we had plenty to live on, but nothing to LIVE FOR! May we glorify God with the life He has given as we serve HIS PURPOSES, laying up a good foundation for the eternal life to come!

Have a great day LIVING THE ABUNDANT LIFE IN CHRIST!
Carl

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Attitude Reflected In Action!

We may think our life is properly centered and declare our ULTIMATE ALLEGIANCE TO THE WILL OF GOD, but what do our actions reveal? What does the manner in which we are toward others say about our view of God and His Will?

Solomon stated. . .
"(2) Whoever WALKS IN UPRIGHTNESS FEARS THE LORD, but he WHO IS DEVIOUS IN HIS WAYS DESPISES HIM." (Proverbs 14:2 ESV)

Wow! That is a pretty strong statement! Does our manner of living reveal we do fear the Lord (knowing we are ultimately accountable to Him as well as recognizing how He is being reverenced when we live according to His Will) or does it indicate we despise Him? We might think we would never despise the Lord, but to ignore His Will is to actually turn our back on Him and therefore an indication we do not like His Way. Do we recognize how our attitude toward God is reflected in our behavior and the manner in which we are with others? Solomon would later state that when the poor is oppressed it "insults his Maker." (Proverbs 14:31)

God is being despised when we exalt our own desires and look down on His. Often that focus is at the root of life's challenges, for when one's life becomes more about self than God or others it is then easier for deviousness to arise and uprightness to be left behind. Are we maintaining a steadfast reverential fear of God?

May GOD'S WILL ALWAYS BE EXALTED in the actions of our life. The manner in which we live and how we treat others says something about our view of God and our relationship to Him. Knowing we always live in the presence of God should encourage us to live in UPRIGHTNESS IN ALL THINGS. May our life continually reveal due reverence toward Him!

Have a great day LIVING WITH DUE REVERENCE AND AWE OF THE ALMIGHTY!
Carl

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Guard Against Shrinking!

Some clothing is carefully labeled with washing precautions. There are fabrics which should not be bleached or the colors will fade. Other fabrics are to be washed in cold water since hot water can cause them to shrink. If a garment shrinks it will no longer fit and therefore becomes insufficient clothing for the wearer.

Someone has said, "Pray for a faith that will not shrink when it is washed in the waters of affliction." In the heat of life's challenges or when hit by the waves of distressing times, does our FAITH keep its shape so as to fit appropriately with a steadfast trust in God as we continue our Christian walk?

The Hebrew writer exhorted and encouraged those going through challenging times. . .
"(36) For you have NEED OF ENDURANCE, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. (37) For, 'Yet a little while, and the coming one will come and will not delay; (38) but MY RIGHTEOUS ONE SHALL LIVE BY FAITH, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.' (39) But we are NOT OF THOSE WHO SHRINK BACK and are destroyed, BUT OF THOSE WHO HAVE FAITH AND PRESERVE THEIR SOULS." (Hebrews 10:36-39 ESV)

Yes, we need to retain a FAITH that does not shrink back in the face of life's challenges. The FAITH THAT FITS is that which is marked by a steadfast trust in God regardless of the trials in this realm. Such a faith will empower us to keep pressing on! May we continue WALKING BY FAITH -- "having put on the breastplate of faith" (1 Thessalonians 5:8 ESV) -- and so strengthen our life and be pleasing to God.

Have a great day WITH FAITH THAT FITS!
Carl

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Not A Little Matter!

There are some things that get better (or more valuable) WITH TIME. Cheese is aged. Investments mature. Well preserved antiques fetch a high price. Etc. However, one thing that does not fall into this category is a lie. A lie never gets better WITH TIME. In fact, it often must breed more lies to cover the first one and then it becomes difficult to keep the story straight. IN TIME the lie just becomes more complicated! Then along with this challenge are the guilt, regret, and the ulcers from keeping it all bottled up within. This is one of the reasons why confession is good for the soul. David knew the freedom and relief confession brought. (i.e. Psalm 32:3-5 & 38:17-18) IN TIME the lies usually come to light. However, there is A TIME of revealing which really needs to be considered before we find ourselves ensnared by the web of deceitfulness.

In the revelation of Jesus to John we read. . .
"(8) 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)

It seems we live in a world today where lying is often consider no big deal. Nevertheless, though some do consider lying a little thing, there is the need to recognize the category the Scriptures place it in and the end to which it can ultimately bring those who continue to practice it. There is A TIME of reckoning coming. Therefore now is THE TIME for reconciliation with God.

In Paul's letter to the church at Rome he urged. . .
"(17) Repay no one evil for evil, but GIVE THOUGHT TO DO WHAT IS HONORABLE IN THE SIGHT OF ALL." (Romans 12:17 ESV)

Let us not lower ourselves to the standard of this world, but rather reveal the power and wisdom of being honest and honorable in all things. Not only will we experience peace within ourselves, but there is greater potential IN TIME to bring about peace between us and others. We will also find ourselves at peace with our God to Whom everything is "naked and exposed." (Hebrews 4:13) It is His view that matters above all else. To Him be the glory as we live to honor His Name in our daily life.

Have a great day KEEPING HONESTY A BIG DEAL!
Carl

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