Real Religion!

A friend posted the following on Facebook and I'm not sure of all that might be behind it, but it still got me thinking. The post read: "Jesus teaches us to follow Him through faith, not religion."

It is possible to be "religious" and not necessarily right. Rituals and pious acts can be carried out without one really having a relationship with the Lord or having faith in God. Perhaps the rituals can become the place where the faith rests as if those actions carried out by oneself will save. Then there are religious practices and rituals carried out that are not even set forth in the Scriptures. Still, RELIGION that is BUILT ON THE FOUNDATION OF GENUINE FAITH in the Lord is PRACTICAL not only for maintaining a right relationship with Him, but also relative to daily living and interaction with others.

James stated. . .
"RELIGION THAT IS PURE AND UNDEFILED before God and the Father IS THIS: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world." (James 1:27 ESV)

James defined RELIGION as that which meets human needs in a very PRACTICAL sense and as being focused on holy living. He went on to also make clear that WORKS are a NATURAL OUTGROWTH of our FAITH. (James 2:17-26) Though God does deserve the time of our attention in prayer and meditation focused toward Him and His Will, He has not laid upon us rituals or practices to merely take up time. Christian living is to be seen as very PRACTICAL. Following the example of Jesus is just as PRACTICAL today as it was when He walked the face of this earth.

RELIGION based on the FOUNDATION OF FAITH in the truth of Jesus Christ will prompt us to live that faith in very PRACTICAL ways. It compels us to put the Lord and His Will first so that we can live being His feet, hands, and mouth fulfilling His purposes in this realm. May this be genuinely so with each one of us, thus enabling Christ to touch others through us.

Have a great day KEEPING THE FAITH AND SERVING HIS PURPOSES!
Carl

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Not To Be Neglected!

When growing up, if my parents gave me a task to do and I ignored or neglected it, I did not escape punishment of one form or another. It didn't matter that I might have done some other good things. If I failed to do what I had been specifically told to do, I was being disobedient.

When it comes to school, to ignore or neglect to do the work assigned, the class will be failed. If an employee ignores or neglects to fulfill the tasks the boss has given, they will probably soon find themselves unemployed.

When we look at the choices generally made in life, people tend to pay the most attention to the things that MATTER TO THEM MOST. If something does not matter, it is that which will most likely be ignored or neglected. On the other hand, what we REALLY CARE ABOUT is that to which we will give our attention and devote ourselves. Now, all of the above examples relate merely to this life. What about that which relates to salvation and eternal life?

The Hebrew writer stated. . .
"(2) For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, (3) HOW SHALL WE ESCAPE IF WE NEGLECT SUCH A GREAT SALVATION? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, (4) while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will." (Hebrews 2:2-4 ESV)

The Greek "ameleo" (translated "neglect") denotes "to be careless", "not to care", or "to make light of." Is that how we view Christ and our need for salvation? Unless we acknowledge the seriousness of our sin and the lostness that can result from it, we will not properly value the cost or need of the salvation we have in Christ.

The danger in neglecting must be seen in proportion to the greatness of the message and provision in Christ. It is called "great salvation" because it is eternal! It is complete and full justification and sanctification through the blood of Jesus. It is great because it could only be provided through the Son. Though it is offered to us at the cost of Jesus' life, we must recognize a sense of personal responsibility to come, accept, and live in accordance with it. To ignore or neglect it is to reveal we don't care. Since our salvation MATTERED ENOUGH TO GOD to send His Son and it MATTERED ENOUGH TO JESUS to pay the price for our sins, may it also MATTER ENOUGH TO US to reveal our sincerest appreciation by living to please Him.

Have a great day RIGHTLY ACKNOWLEDGING THE GREAT PROVISION ON OUR BEHALF!
Carl

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Well, You Don't Say!

It is interesting, when studying and learning another language, how even English words may begin to take on a form to remind you of the new vocabulary being learned. I remember this from my study of Spanish in high school and Greek in college. Even now, when I see "Aptos" (a city in California) I still first think of the similar Greek lettering for "artos""(which looks like "aptos" when substituting English letters for the Greek), meaning "bread". In fact I frequently find myself ready to pronounce it "artos" instead of "Aptos".

It is impressive when we meet someone who is able to speak fluently in several languages without getting them mixed up. However, something even more clever than speaking several languages is being ABLE TO KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT IN ONE! We may all still be trying to learn this aspect of speech. There are times we may find the best answer to give is no answer at all.

Solomon wrote. . .
"The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things." (Proverbs 15:28 ESV)

In Ecclesiastes Solomon also noted there being "A TIME TO KEEP SILENCE, and a time to speak." (Ecclesiastes 3:7). Getting those times mixed up is what gets us into trouble! Let us weigh our responses. Let us consider our words. May we become more FLUENT IN KEEPING OUR MOUTH SHUT when that is the most appropriate action to take.

Have a great day BEING WISE IN SPEECH AND NON-SPEECH!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 12/06/1998 (edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Beyond Words!

"Words fail me." "I don't know what to say." "Your generosity has left me speechless." "I can't thank you enough." Have we experienced such moments in life? Have we received something from another that has impacted us in such a manner? What a feeling to be so overwhelmed, words just can't even come close to expressing how we feel. And though saying the words "Thank you" could not be stated with any more sincerity, they seem to fall far short of expressing the heart felt appreciation welling up from deep within us.

As Paul was urging generosity in helping others, he made the statement. . .
"(15) Thanks be to God for his INEXPRESSIBLE GIFT!" (2 Corinthians 9:15 ESV)

"INEXPRESSIBLE!" Recognizing the magnitude of the blessing of all of God's gifts should leave us with mouth open, but lacking the words to fully convey our thanks. Whether the gift Paul was referring to was that of God's grace (Ephesians 2:8) or the giving of His Son (John 3:16), can we find words truly adequate for expressing what it means to us? If anyone's gifts should leave us SPEECHLESS, it ought to be God's! He gives the greatest gifts that could ever be given. Can we ever thank God enough or find the words truly adequate for His gifts of grace, mercy, and salvation all made available through our relationship with the Lord Jesus?

Though words may fail in adequately expressing our thanks to God, He does know our heart. Therefore let us remain focused on the heart of the matter as we continue saying "Thank You" with our words, the actions of our life, and through helping others come to know God's gifts as well.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED GOD KNOWS EVEN WHAT WE CAN'T SPEAK!
Carl

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Paying It Forward!

In Paul's second letter to the church at Corinth he 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)

The New Living Translation reads: "(4) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." [NLT, © 1997, Wheaton, Ill., Tyndale House]

Because WE HAVE BEEN comforted, WE CAN comfort. Though we may comfort others in sorrow -- offering them support and encouragement during a time of loss or great trial -- we also bring comfort to the lives of others by fulfilling their needs. Therefore, as WE HAVE BEEN blessed, WE IN TURN CAN bless others.

We cannot repay God for what He has given to us. Whether it be physical or spiritual blessings, there is nothing we can do to deserve them or repay God for having granted them. God, in fact, does not have a need of anything because all belongs to Him anyway. (Psalm 50:10-12) However, others are hungry and in need of shelter. It is those individuals WE CAN help, glorifying God in the process. As we seek to live faithful to Him and His Will, we ought to live a life of "thanksliving" to Him. Part of that "thanksliving" is through being willing to "pay it forward" by acknowledging the NEEDS OF OTHERS (as God has acknowledged ours) and DO WHAT WE CAN to help.

I have thanked God for the opportunity to serve this week as the cold weather came in so suddenly. It has been a reminder of how blessed I am while others are not so fortunate. Since our local seasonal winter shelter with which I am involved was not scheduled to open until this coming Sunday, there were still people who needed to get out of the cold. It was wonderful to see things begin to fall in place this past Monday as the police department made a meeting room available and people began to volunteer to monitor during the night and bring in food. I was privileged to serve alongside another man from our community as a monitor through the night Tuesday. Things were covered again Wednesday night, and I (as of this writing) will be joined by another to monitor Thursday night. Thursday morning I dropped a small plug-in cooler by with some milk and juice and thus to also provide a place to keep the sandwiches fresh in the room being used by our guests.

I'm not expecting anything in return. I'm thankful to have the opportunity to help for I HAVE BEEN richly blessed. The "thank you" from those for whom we have helped provide some shelter is enough. The physical need of the moment is being met. And hopefully some more focus is turned upward in thanksgiving to God for that is the purpose of our "thanksliving". (Matthew 5:16) May God -- the Gracious Giver and Sustainer of life -- be praised!

Have a great day GRATEFUL TO SERVE!
Carl

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Count And Tell!

Today is marked on our calendar here in the United States of America as "Thanksgiving Day!" Though everyday ought to be a day of thanksgiving to God, today is often filled with reflections on the BLESSINGS we have received. There is a hymn we sing that encourages us, while in the midst of "life's billows", to COUNT OUR BLESSINGS, even "name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord hath done."*

It seems so easy, in the midst of trials, to forget how TRULY BLESSED we are. And on the other hand, when things are going well it is easy to take God's blessings for granted. We ought to frequently take the time to consider the blessings -- whether viewed as great or small -- and in prayer sincerely thank God for them. His blessings reveal He has not taken our cares for granted, so why should we take His blessings for granted?

However, don't stop with the giving of thanks. Note something the Psalmist exhorted toward where we read. . .

"(1) Oh GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD; call upon his name; MAKE KNOWN HIS DEEDS AMONG THE PEOPLES! (2) Sing to him, sing praises to him; TELL OF ALL HIS WONDROUS WORKS!" (Psalm 105:1-2)

May we never forget to give thanks to God for His blessings. Let us do it often! Let us do it sincerely! Let us tell Him how much we love and adore Him for His provisions. Then lets us also TELL OTHERS about how much God has blessed us. Let others know how much of a difference God has made in our life. Our telling others how God has blessed us is just another way of telling God how thankful we are!

Have a great day SHARING WHAT GOD HAS DONE!
Carl

* ["When Upon Life's Billows", by Oatman and Excell, © 1925, RENEWAL, Hope Publishing Co., owner]

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[This focus was originally sent 11/24/1998 (edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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For This We Give Thanks!

We may (and should) be thankful for lots of things. Whether it be material or spiritual blessings, we ought to not take them for granted. And as we strive to become more and more Christ-like, should we not offer thanks for that which He offered thanks?

When Jesus instituted the memorial of His death on our behalf, we read. . .

"(26) Now as they were eating, JESUS TOOK BREAD, and AFTER BLESSING IT BROKE IT AND GAVE IT to the disciples, and said, 'Take, eat; this is my body.' (27) And HE TOOK A CUP, and when he HAD GIVEN THANKS HE GAVE IT TO THEM, saying, 'Drink of it, all of you, (28) for THIS IS MY BLOOD OF THE COVENANT, which is poured out for many FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS.' " (Matthew 26:26-28 ESV)

Perhaps there is a sense in which it might seem strange for Jesus to offer thanks for what He was providing. However, thanks was clearly associated with the establishment of this memorial. That thanksgiving should certainly be ours not only each time we partake of the Lord's supper, but every day of our lives because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross on our behalf.

Paul, in writing to the church at Corinth -- as he urged leaving idolatry completely behind as the relationship with Christ was to be the core focus of their life -- referred to the participation in this memorial in stating. . .

"(16) The CUP OF BLESSING that we bless, is it not a PARTICIPATION IN THE BLOOD OF CHRIST? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ?" (1 Corinthians 10:16 ESV)

A participation! A fellowship with! We have true life because of the BLOOD OF CHRIST and our life fellowship is to remain with Him. Therefore, how thankful does our life reveal we are for the FORGIVENESS we have received because of the BLOOD OF CHRIST? If we are still living in a worldly manner, we are guilty of treating the BLOOD OF THE COVENANT in a profane manner or as an unholy thing. (Hebrews 10:29) Such living is a display of spurning or a showing of contempt for the Son of God as if He has done nothing for us!

Because of the salvation that is ours in Christ our life ought to be lived as a testimony of thanksgiving for such an eternal blessing as is ours. This "cup of blessing" (or thanksgiving) should fill our life as a cup of joy and eternal thanks for the assurance our Lord's death, burial, and resurrection has provided. Yes, for this we give thanks!

Have a great day LIVING IN FELLOWSHIP WITH CHRIST!
Carl

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Thankful Responsibility!

Our blessings! Do we ever take them for granted? Have we ever acted as if they were for us alone? Or do we acknowledge how we are to be good stewards of the blessings we have received. The more we have the more responsibility we have to help others because we have been blessed with the position to do so!

As Paul was planning to visit Rome as he continued his missionary journeys, he mentioned his purpose of going to Jerusalem where he stated. . .

"(26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) They were pleased to do it, and INDEED THEY OWE IT TO THEM. For if the Gentiles have come to SHARE IN THEIR SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS, they OUGHT ALSO TO BE OF SERVICE TO THEM IN MATERIAL BLESSINGS." (Romans 15:26-27 ESV)

Whether it be physical or spiritual blessings, if we have been blessed we ought to be WILLING TO SHARE with others. In Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus, he urged any who were stealing to do so no longer, but rather get a job. However, making a living was not merely to keep them from stealing, but so they would "HAVE SOMETHING TO SHARE WITH ANYONE IN NEED." (Ephesians 4:28). One of the ways to show God our appreciation for our blessings is by being good stewards of them and especially in the sense of helping meet the needs of others. In so doing it is as service to the Lord. (note Matthew 25:34-40)

Those who have more, of them more is expected. (Luke 12:48) May we live up to the service God has equipped us to provide.

Have a great day WILLING TO BLESS AS WE HAVE BEEN BLESSED!
Carl

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Thankful Response!

When we appreciate something, it is easy to say "Thanks!" That thanks can be conveyed in the words sincerely spoken or the actions of the life. By putting to use what we have been given by another says something about how much it is truly appreciated. We may thank God in prayer for both the physical and spiritual blessings we have received. However, are there times when there is no "thanks" to be given?

In Paul's letter to the church at Thessalonica, he urged. . .
"(16) Rejoice always, (17) pray without ceasing, (18) GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)

What audacity to think that we should give thanks IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES! Did Paul not realize ALL CIRCUMSTANCES are not good? Well, looking at the life of Paul we should come to know he experienced a variety of circumstances that were quite trying. (see 2 Corinthians 11:23-29) Still he was bold enough to exhort toward thankfulness IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES. The literal Greek is "in all give thanks" or "in all be grateful".

The development of a grateful spirit is to recognize no matter what we are going through there is ALWAYS SOMETHING for which to be thankful. Finding what that is then helps us to get through the trying circumstances rather than giving up in the midst of them. Such may even begin with thanking God that things are not worse than they are! Even as we may find ourselves lacking in some areas, we are still richly blessed in others. Where we choose to focus makes all the difference in the world. Knowing we are continuing in a right relationship with God and that He is mindful of all our circumstances and will ultimately bring us through them and to Him, ought to be cause for thanksgiving. Therefore, as the psalmist David expressed, ". . . O LORD my God, I WILL GIVE THANKS TO YOU FOREVER." (Psalm 30:12 ESV)

Have a great day ALWAYS FINDING THE ROOM FOR THANKSGIVING!
Carl

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A Place!

Yesterday I joined in with others sweeping, mopping, cleaning, sterilizing, etc. to prepare the place that will be used beginning next weekend for our sixth season of our local winter shelter. I have enjoyed my involvement with this program because it helps meet a real need during the cold winter months. However, it is not a permanent place to be settled into. Though a place is provided to receive some good meals and a safe warm place to sleep -- and though the shelter guests always express their sincere appreciation for what is provided -- it is not home. Our hope is for these individuals to ultimately find a more permanent place for themselves. It has been encouraging to know how some in the past seasons have been able to connect with other programs, find work, and permanent housing.

Though we may be blessed with having a roof over our head all year round, how settled in are we to life? We may have prepared a good home for ourselves and family (and that is good), but do we ever lose sight of the fact we are not home? Do we keep in mind there is a place BEING PREPARED for us and that where we are now is only temporary?

Jesus told His disciples. . .
"(1) Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. (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 14:1-3 ESV)

And the Hebrew writer noted the example of the life perspective of others to encourage looking beyond this realm where he wrote. . .

"(13) These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. (14) For people who speak thus make it clear that they are SEEKING A HOMELAND. (15) If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. (16) But as it is, they desire A BETTER COUNTRY, that is, A HEAVENLY ONE. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for HE HAS PREPARED FOR THEM A CITY." (Hebrews 11:13-16 ESV)

Yes, where we live now -- as simple or lavish as it might be -- is only temporary. Therefore, we need to be careful how much at home we become here. Paul encouraged those at Thessalonica to keep looking ahead to the Lord's return when they would meet Him in the air and so always be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:17 ESV) Was that not the encouragement Jesus gave His disciples in telling them "that where I am you may be also."? (John 14:3) May we keep our heart focused heavenward; toward the eternal home that is BEING PREPARED for us by the Lord.

Have a great day CONTINUING TO JOURNEY TOWARD HOME!
Carl

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Preserve The Value!

Did you hear about the Olympian who won an Olympic Gold Medal and went home and had it bronzed? Now, we know that's ridiculous. That didn't happen, for who would do such a thing? We might bronze baby shoes to preserve them, but not an Olympic Gold Medal! Its value, as it is, is understood and the desire is to keep it as it is.

When something has value we generally try to keep it in such a way as to retain that value. We want others to see the value it has in itself and therefore treat it with the same value of which we want others to take note. This should also most certainly be our view of spiritual things. Do we treat spiritual things always in a way that can help others note their true value?

The Hebrew writer warned. . .
"(28) Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. (29) How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has spurned the Son of God, and has PROFANED THE BLOOD OF THE COVENANT by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?" (Hebrews 10:28-29 ESV)

The New Living Translation reads, ". . . those who have trampled on the Son of God and have TREATED THE BLOOD OF THE COVENANT AS if it were COMMON AND UNHOLY." [vs. 29., NLT (1997), Tyndale House]

How do we view THE BLOOD OF JESUS that has sanctified, redeemed, cleansed, and saved us? To continue in purposeful sin reveals to the world we do not VALUE THE SACRIFICE made for our sins. Devaluing the blood in this way is associated with trampling the Son of God under our feet and even insulting or outraging the Spirit of God's gift of grace! Are we aiming for our lives to REFLECT THE VALUE AND HOLINESS OF THE BLOOD OF GOD'S COVENANT? Would we take that which is of greater value than gold and bronze it?

May THE BLOOD OF JESUS retain its rightful value in our lives that the world might see how glorious it is and the benefit they also may receive from it through being united with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. That blood has purchased the pardon all the gold in the world could never provide.

Have a great day revealing the MORE PRECIOUS THAN GOLD!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 10/24/1999 (edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Stumbling Blocks!

A stumbling block is something that stands in our way of living, moving, achieving a goal, or coming to understand something. Sometimes we have to deal with them; learning how to either get around them, over them, or completely moving them out of the way. However, some of the worst stumbling blocks are those we might set up for ourselves. It is not always something in front of us. Sometimes the stumbling block can be within us. This was the case for the nation of Israel during the days of Ezekiel. Some of the elders who were not focused on God in the manner they should have been, still came to Ezekiel -- God's prophet at the time -- for counsel.

We read. . .
"(1) Then certain of the elders of Israel came to me and sat before me. (2) And the word of the LORD came to me: (3) 'Son of man, these men HAVE TAKEN THEIR IDOLS INTO THEIR HEARTS, and SET THE STUMBLING BLOCK OF THEIR INIQUITY BEFORE THEIR FACES. Should I indeed let myself be consulted by them?" (Ezekiel 14:1-3)

The root of the problem was in their HEART. That is where the idols had been taken in before they were placed in front of themselves. How could they expect things to go well with such a "stumbling block" set within and before them? This was again noted in verses 4 and 7. There was the need for repentance so that they would no more go astray, but would rather again be God's people and God would be their God! (vs.11)

Perhaps we have never envisioned ourselves being guilty of idolatry. However, Paul even noted greed (covetousness) as idolatry. (Colossians 3:5) Anything or anyone held dearer IN OUR HEART than the Lord, has become our idol. It is the Lord Who is to have that sovereign place IN OUR HEART. If He is not seated there we will find ourselves continuing to stumble and fall in life. Whatever or whomever's purposes we most serve (and that could even be our own) is where the life has bowed down. And how true it is that some people just fall all over themselves!

May we continue developing a HEART FOR THE LORD and His Will. Taking Him into OUR HEART is what paves the way for the keeping of His Will in front of us to guide us safely through life's journey and toward the eternity He desires to provide us. Traveling through life with Him we will have His help in dealing with what other obstacles may be encountered.

Have a great day WITH THE LORD REIGNING WITHIN!
Carl

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Faced With Changing Rules!

When interacting with others in a game, when rules change, what do we do? Get fed up and quit? Decide we'll play by our own rules anyway? Cry foul? Ask whose idea it was to change the rules and why? Give in? What do we do when that is what we see taking place in real life?

There are those who continue to want to label things other than what they are. This is nothing new, for in Isaiah we read . . .

"(20) Woe to those who call EVIL GOOD and GOOD EVIL, who put DARKNESS FOR LIGHT and LIGHT FOR DARKNESS, who put BITTER FOR SWEET and SWEET FOR BITTER!" (Isaiah 5:20 ESV)

The world also wants us to follow its changing rules and shifting values while it tells us not to try to bind our Christian values on it. Some are even deceived into thinking going along with the world will help reach the world. When society's rules change do we give up doing what God desires us to do?

Consider Daniel's character when faced with a decree contrary to his relationship with God. The decree King Darius the Mede was talked into signing made it punishable -- by death in a den of lion -- for anyone who made a petition to any god or man for thirty days, other than to the king. (Daniel 6:6-7) How did Daniel respond?

We read . . .
"(10) When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. HE GOT DOWN ON HIS KNEES three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, AS HE HAD DONE PREVIOUSLY." (Daniel 6:10 ESV)

In spite of the rule and even the threat to his life, Daniel did not cease his regular petitions and PRAYERS to God. Perhaps some might have thought, "Well, it is only for thirty days. I can give in that long." Not Daniel! Nothing was going to stand between Him and His PRAYER LIFE with God.

Is this not how we should also be? After all, what is most needed when such is going on in this world? When things in the world change, PRAY! When the world is going another direction, PRAY! When we are told that our faith is useless, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!

Why PRAY? First of all, because it continues to reveal where our focus is most centered in life and our heart continues to be turned toward God. Secondly, though God is not being acknowledged by the world, the world is very much in need of our PRAYERS. (i.e. 1 Timothy 2:1-4) May our daily life be marked by the same kind of faith and faithfulness displayed in the life of God's servant Daniel. If ever there was a need for PRAYER, that time continues now!

Have a great day DARING TO BE A DANIEL (OR DANIELETTE)!
Carl

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Work Gloves!

This past Monday night we were struck with a pretty strong windstorm which ultimately caused our electricity to go out from around 8 o'clock to a little after midnight. Tuesday morning's paper (which came with an apology for being a little late due to the area power outage) indicated we had a top wind gust of 51 miles per hour. Therefore, AS I WENT for a ten mile walk at 5:20 a.m. Tuesday morning, I anticipated seeing plenty of branches and other debris along the streets. AS I WENT I began picking up and tossing the larger branches to the side of the road where they would be out of the way of motor traffic and make walking for other pedestrians easier as well. It was not long before I found myself thinking I should have brought a pair of work gloves as I reached down and tossed more and more branches to the side of streets on which I was walking. Even where I walked on sidewalks I bent down to remove tree branches so they would be out of the way for others walking that way.

Prior to His ascension back to Heaven, when Jesus gave His disciples the "Great Commission", we read. . .

"(18) And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. (19) GO therefore and MAKE disciples of all nations, BAPTIZING them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (20) TEACHING them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.' " (Matthew 28:18-20 ESV)

The tense of the Greek translated "go" carries the idea of "HAVING GONE" or "AS YOU GO." It is not so much the idea of going somewhere to do the making of disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them to continue in that same work as it is more the urging of doing it WHILE GOING. It is important for us to understand that AS WE GO through our daily life, we are to have on our "spiritual work gloves"; being mindful of the service, encouragement, and teaching we can engage in as the opportunities arise along the way.

Over the last several years, AS I HAVE GONE walking about our community, I have had opportunity to help another carry or lift something, push a car, offer an umbrella, give a word of encouragement, provide some counsel, even answer Bible questions, etc. It has helped to make me more aware of wearing "spiritual work gloves" to serve varying needs AS I GO about my other daily activities. The doing is not just when I arrive somewhere, but AS I GO to wherever I am on the way. As we journey on toward the Heavenly goal, may we continually be mindful of the opportunities (Galatians 6:10) God places before us to do good, serve, and teach to His glory and praise.

Have a great day SERVING ALL ALONG LIFE'S WAY!
Carl

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The Power!

"I showed them that time." "Let's see them get around that argument." "They won't be able to argue with the cleverness of this explanation." Where is the focus of each of these statements? Does it seem to be a reliance on one's own ability or wisdom? I used to ponder how if I just had all the knowledge and right responses to people's objections to the truth of Jesus and the Scriptures that I could bring them all to God. Then I remembered Jesus -- the One Who did have all understanding and even knew the thoughts of men's hearts (i.e. John 2:25) -- did not win everyone over to embrace the truth. No matter how much knowledge and skill at presentation we might possess, if hearts are hardened or they see more of us than God at work, they may not be won.

The story has been told of a William Tennat of New England who was an eloquent speaker. On one occasion he took great pains in the preparation of a sermon he planned to use to convince a renowned infidel of the truth of Christianity. As William Tennat was delivering his finely prepared lesson, he became confused to the point of being compelled to stop and close the service with prayer. However, it was this very unexpected failure to display his usual eloquence -- an ability that had often astonished this unbeliever -- that actually caused the infidel to consider that on all the other occasions Tennat must have been aided by Divine power. It was this view that actually moved the infidel to conversion. It was then noted that God accomplished by silence what Tennat had tried to do with his persuasive preaching.

Remember Paul's reminder of how he had approached the Corinthians.
"(1) And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. (2) For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. (3) And I was with you in WEAKNESS and in FEAR and much TREMBLING, (4) and my speech and my message were NOT IN PLAUSIBLE WORDS OF WISDOM, BUT IN DEMONSTRATION OF THE SPIRIT AND OF POWER, (5) THAT YOUR FAITH MIGHT NOT REST IN THE WISDOM OF MEN BUT IN THE POWER OF GOD." (1 Corinthians 2:1-5 ESV)

Truth is truth. It cannot be made any truer. It cannot be improved. Truth has its own power. If the power is seen as mine, it is not enough. It is the POWER OF GOD AND HIS WORD that needs to be allowed to work. Where others will allow it, it will do its work. (Isaiah 55:10-11) May we simply remain God's faithful messengers.

Have a great day WITH GOD'S LIVING AND ACTIVE WORD WORKING IN AND THROUGH US.
Carl

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No Matter What!

Saadi [a Persian poet (1184-1283) who lived during the medieval period] stated, "I fear God, and next to God I chiefly fear him who fears Him not." Certainly God is to be the recipient of our reverential fear. Acknowledging His power and righteousness in judgment, His abiding Will is to be duly noted and walked in. However, we can probably understand that sense of also fearing those who do not fear God because of the wickedness they can seem to be set on doing. The presence of evil in this world can drastically impact our life. It can also cause us to wonder if God is really in control.

Being able to trust God NO MATTER WHAT is a sign of growing faith in Him. It is true we may not understand why He allows some things to happen, but ultimately He is in control and all are accountable to Him.

David had many challenges in life, but his TRUSTING FOCUS always eventually ended up turning toward God. Therefore David wrote. . .

"(10) In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise, (11) in God I trust; I SHALL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT CAN MAN DO TO ME?" (Psalm 56:10-11 ESV)

Later in the psalms we again read . . .
"(6) The LORD is on my side; I WILL NOT FEAR. WHAT CAN MAN DO TO ME? (7) The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me." (Psalm 118:6-7 ESV)

As the writer of Hebrews was encouraging his readers going through challenging times, he seems to have quoted from psalm 118. (see Hebrews 13:6) Being able to TRUST GOD NO MATTER WHAT was the kind of faith we see in Daniel's friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (usually remembered by their Babylonian names of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) when they faced the fiery furnace after refusing to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. (Daniel 3:16-18)

Jesus exhorted. . .
"(4) I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. (5) but I will warn you whom to fear: FEAR HIM WHO, after he has killed, HAS AUTHORITY TO CAST INTO HELL. Yes, I tell you, FEAR HIM!" (Luke 12:4-5 ESV)

Jesus then went on to encourage regarding God's mindfulness of each one of us individually. (Luke 12:6-7) There is, in reality, only so much man can do to us. Our body can be struck out against and even our life can be taken, but God is the One Who has the power over our ETERNAL DESTINY. May we duly REVERENCE HIM as we trustingly seek to live according to His purposes in this life. In so doing we will receive the ultimate purpose He has in mind for us; spending an eternity in His glorious presence.

Have a great day GROWING IN TRUSTING FAITH!
Carl

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Fight T _ _ th Decay!

The things we want to last are worth a daily investment. Several years ago I came across the statement "Be true to your teeth or they will be "false" to you!" Good advise for anyone who does not wish to be limited to a soft-food diet.

Without regular attention and proper care DECAY gradually begins to take place. That DECAY often begins to occur below the surface and the damage can be done before it's realized! This is true whether we are referring to our teeth, our cars, our homes, or whatever. Someone has said: "Fight TRUTH DECAY -- study the Bible daily." [source: bulletin clipping]

Even the spiritual mind needs regular attention and proper care or, there too, DECAY will gradually begin to take place. The sad commentary on God's people during the time of the prophet Hosea is expressed where we read. . .

"(6) MY PEOPLE ARE DESTROYED FOR LACK OF KNOWLEDGE; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children." (Hosea 4:6 ESV)

Israel's poor spiritual condition did not arise overnight. Their situation had been due to a downward spiral that had taken place over many years. The "Oral Surgeon" had a message Israel needed to hear and respond to in order to regain their place at the table of God's blessings. At the "root" of their problem was a poor choice of "spiritual diet" as they had followed the way of idolatry. The "root" had become infected throughout the nation and they were in need of a "root canal" to go to the heart of the problem. God's desire was to renew His relationship with Israel in a way that would put a wholesome smile back on their faces.

We must give daily attention to our spiritual lives for the sake of fighting TRUTH DECAY in our own heart. Then we will be strengthened to fight TRUTH DECAY around us as well.

Paul declared. . .
"(7) I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I HAVE KEPT THE FAITH. (8) Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing." (2 Timothy 4:7-8 ESV)

"I have KEPT THE FAITH!" "I have HELD TO THE TRUTH!" May this become the affirmation of our own lives as we seek to please God through our manner of daily living!

Have a great day BRUSHING UP ON YOUR BIBLE KNOWLEDGE!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 10/22/1999 (edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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Fly Or Ant? (part 2 of 2)

As we noted yesterday, there are lessons to be learned even from some of God's smallest creatures. When flies find some food, they seem to remain to dine sumptuously and then fly away, perhaps looking for some other tasty morsel. Sometimes it seems like the fly is ready to camp out on the piece of food. Ants, on the other hand, present a very different picture. Once an ant finds a sweet food source, they may dine for a moment, but soon return to their colony to SPREAD THE NEWS. Thus begins a long line of ants coming and going between the food source and their home. In fact, once they have found a food source it is difficult to keep them from returning.

What did Andrew do when he first met the Lord? John's Gospel records. . .
"(41) HE FIRST FOUND HIS OWN BROTHER SIMON and said to him, 'We have found the Messiah' (which means Christ). (42) HE BROUGHT HIM TO JESUS. Jesus looked at him and said, 'So you are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas' (which means Peter)." (John 1:41-42 ESV)

Remember the Samaritan woman did the same thing (John 4:28-30) and because of her testimony, MANY OTHERS WERE PROVIDED THE OPPORTUNITY to believe in Jesus as well. (John 4:39-42) And though the man who had lived among the tombs -- the one from whom were delivered the demons that were allowed to enter the pigs -- desired to go with Jesus, at Jesus' command "he went away, PROCLAIMING throughout the whole city HOW MUCH JESUS HAD DONE FOR HIM." (Luke 8:39) He had a life changing story to tell.

Yes, from ants we can learn something. Rather than seeking merely our own benefit or being tempted to keep the GOOD NEWS to ourselves, may we continue SHARING THE SWEET MESSAGE OF SALVATION in Christ with others. GOOD NEWS is not to be kept to ourselves.

Have a great day INTRODUCING OTHERS TO OUR SWEET LORD!
Carl

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Fly Or Ant? (part 1 of 2)

We can learn some amazing lessons from watching some of God's small creatures. Perhaps we view flies as a real pest. They seem to find their way easily into our homes, but can't find their way back out. Around and around they buzz through the room with a seeming lack of any direction. Perhaps they simply hope to chance upon something worthwhile.

Ants, on the other hand, seem to march out with a plan. They appear to be very task oriented and it is done on behalf of the whole colony rather than for merely selfish aims.

Even Solomon in his wisdom drew attention to the tiny ant. He stated. . .
"(6) GO TO THE ANT, O sluggard, CONSIDER HER WAYS, AND BE WISE. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest." (Proverbs 6:6-8 ESV)

Toward the end of Proverbs we find in the words of Agur the mention of several creatures described as being small, but "exceedingly wise." (30:24) Even there, attention is found drawn to the tiny ant as we read . . .

"(25) the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;" (Proverbs 30:25 ESV)

Ants are INDUSTRIOUS. They are HARD WORKERS. They seem to be able to stick with the task at hand and FULFILL THEIR PURPOSE. Are we doing the same on behalf of others and to the glory of God or are we simply living with selfish aims in mind?

Paul exhorted. . .
"(4) Let each of you LOOK NOT ONLY TO HIS OWN INTERESTS, but ALSO TO THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS." (Philippians 2:4 ESV)

Paul then turned to the example of Christ Jesus (vs.5) and eventually implied the need to focus on His interests. (vs.21)

May we take a lesson from the ant by also developing the diligence and zeal needed in continuing to carry out the work we have been called in the Lord to do. We may feel small, but BY STICKING TO THE TASK the Lord can and will accomplish much through us. Let us go to the ant and be wise!

Have a great day BEING A DILIGENT WORKER FOR THE LORD!
Carl

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"A Day Without . . . !"

Back in the mid 1970's, Anita Bryant -- who was then the spokesperson for Minute Maid ® Orange Juice -- would say, "A day without orange juice is like a day without sunshine!" Someone else has stated that "A day without orange juice is like a day without orange juice." Then there is the comedian Steve Martin who is quoted as saying, "A day without sunshine is like, you know, night." Perhaps Steve Martin's statement actually makes the most sense. The reality is that WITHOUT LIGHT WE ARE LEFT WITH DARKNESS!

Remember Jesus' declaration where we read. . .

"(12) Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. WHOEVER FOLLOWS ME will not walk in darkness, but WILL HAVE THE LIGHT OF LIFE.' " (John 8:12 ESV)

With many who refuse to believe in JESUS, no wonder there is so much darkness in this world. When JESUS was being put to death on the cross, there were three hours of darkness. It was truly a dark moment in the history of mankind; putting the MESSIAH, the SON OF GOD, the REDEEMER of the world to death. (Matthew 27:45) When they had come to arrest JESUS in the garden He had stated it was their "hour, and the power of darkness." (Luke 22:53 ESV)

It is in THE LIGHT that we find the guidance and blessing of forgiveness we need, as John wrote. . .

"(5) this is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that GOD IS LIGHT, AND IN HIM IS NO DARKNESS AT ALL. (6) If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. (7) But if we WALK IN THE LIGHT, AS HE IS IN THE LIGHT, we have fellowship with one another, and THE BLOOD OF JESUS HIS SON CLEANSES US FROM ALL SIN." (1 John 1:5-7 ESV)

I love orange juice, but we could survive without it. However, it is the LIFE WITHOUT THE SON that is doomed to an eternity of darkness. It is where GOD and JESUS CHRIST are that there is no need for sun or lamp (note Revelation 21:23) because THEIR ESSENCE AND GUIDANCE ARE THAT OF LIGHT. It is the life without the LORD that remains in darkness greater than that of the night. May we continue to walk daily in THE LIGHT OF THE SON where we will find blessing for this life and for an eternity with Him.

Have a great day LIVING IN SON-LIGHT!
Carl

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Part Of The Story!

Perhaps we love telling others about our life or enjoy listening to other's stories. Becoming more familiar with one another's background helps us to understand each other a little better. Sometimes it explains why things are done in certain ways or why one believes what they believe. Knowing the story of one's life can also be inspirational when it is seen where they now are in spite of things that could have held them back. It can also be interesting to hear who else might have been a significant influence (i.e. parent, sibling, grandparent, teacher, etc.) in the story of that life. Perhaps you are now thinking of your own life story and others associated with it.

When Jesus taught that we are to learn to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, He declared Who we are to be like in doing so as He stated. . .

"(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 5:45 ESV)

Whether people realize it or not, GOD is a part of their story. Because they are alive, they are A PRODUCT OF HIS CREATION. Because they continue to live they are RECIPIENTS OF HIS BLESSINGS that allow life to continue.

When Paul spoke in Athens -- drawing attention to what they referred to as "the unknown god" (Acts 17:23) -- he stated. . .

"(24) The GOD who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, (25) nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since HE HIMSELF GIVES TO ALL MANKIND LIFE AND BREATH AND EVERYTHING. (26) And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, (27) that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward him and find him. Yet HE IS ACTUALLY NOT FAR FROM EACH ONE OF US, (28) for 'IN HIM WE LIVE AND MOVE AND HAVE OUR BEING'; as even some of your own poets have said, 'For WE ARE INDEED HIS OFFSPRING.'" (Acts 17:24-28 ESV)

Clearly, what Paul presented to that audience in the Areopagus (vs.22) was that GOD is part of the story of the life of every human being. Therefore, GOD ought to be presently recognized as a vital player in the life story of each one of us as we anticipate a future that is in HIS HANDS. HE IS a part of our life story! How much HE CONTINUES to be a part of the story depends on what we allow.

Even those who don't acknowledge GOD as a part of their life story now, will someday be faced with the reality HE will again be a part of it. A time of accountability is coming. As we rejoice in GOD CONTINUING to be a vital part of the story of our life, may we help others realize how much they are in need of that relationship now so that the story of their life may have the glorious "HAPPY EVER AFTER ending God desires to provide.

Have a great day LIVING CONFIDENT OF THE REST OF THE STORY!
Carl

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SO GOOD!

Someone has said, "Only GOD can turn a MESS into a MESSage, a TEST into a TESTimony, a TRIal into a TRIumph, a VICTim into a VICTory. GOD is GOOD . . . all the time!" [shared by a friend on Facebook®]

This immediately made me think of Paul's statement in his letter to the church at Rome where we read. . .

"(28) And we know that for those who love God ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD, for those who are called according to HIS PURPOSE." (Romans 8:28 ESV)

Truly our GOD is GOOD! Yes, we experience some things in life that are not good, but GOD REMAINS GOD and He is truly GOOD! Though we don't always see how it will be possible for Him to work some things out, in faith we can trust Him to do so in His Time and in His Way. As we ENTRUST OUR LIVES to the Sovereign hand of God, all the varied experiences of life will work to cause us to keep praying and trusting Him even when we don't know what it is for which we ought to pray. (Romans 8:26-27) Praise God for the Spirit's help! Maintaining our TRUST IN GOD, life's experiences can also serve to continue moving us toward becoming more and more like His Son (Romans 8:29) and to the greater glory He gives and is moving us into as we stand justified in Christ. (Romans 8:30)

Praise God for His mindfulness of everything we experience in life. Nothing goes without His notice. He is fully able to get us from where we are and through what we are experiencing to where He ultimately wants us. May we TRUST HIM for THE GOOD He will bring about in this realm and even more so in the eternal life to come.

Have a great day SURRENDERED TO THE PURPOSES OF GOD!
Carl

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Talk To The One You Love!

It is interesting how many people seem to forget God all day, yet ask Him to remember them a night. What kind of relationship is that? I know my wife would not appreciate it if that was my view of our relationship. As God is mindful of us through the day, should we not also be mindful of Him? Do we only need the relationship at night?

David wrote. . .
"(16) But I call to God, and the LORD will save me. (17) EVENING and MORNING and at NOON I utter my complaint and moan, and HE HEARS MY VOICE." (Psalm 55:16-17 ESV)

Paul urged. . .
"(17) PRAY WITHOUT CEASING," (1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV)

Between these two passages we can note it is good to have some set times for prayer, but it is also good to maintain a spirit of prayer throughout the day. PRAYER IS NOT LIMITED TO SPACE AND TIME. We can and should pray anywhere and at any time. It is one of the few means of communication anymore without technical difficulties. Our God hears!

Have a great day TALKING TO THE ONE YOU LOVE!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 11/02/1998 (edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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FREE!

"FREE!" What does that mean? Some people apparently don't know. A number of years ago my wife and I "won" a Caribbean cruise. The only catch was we had to book arrangements to get from the West Coast to Florida in order to take it. Some have been told they "won" a prize (i.e. a boat and motor) and all they had to do was send $97 for shipping and handling. (It turns out what they got was a rubber raft and small electric motor they could have bought locally for that amount or less.) Then there are things that are "FREE!" . . . with a "minimum purchase." Again I ask: What does "FREE" mean?

A couple days ago I tried to check out a phone number that showed up on our telephone caller ID. I knew by the prefix it was a local number, but it appeared to be from a business of which I was not familiar. I went online to use a "reverse telephone directory" in which to search for who it was. I must have clicked on ten different links -- all marked "FREE" -- only to find out it was a Port Townsend number (which I already knew), but I would have to pay to find out the name and address. I even found an article that discussed how to find out the information "FREE", but the link in the article took me right back to one of the websites I had already checked.

"FREE!" How often true it is that if it's too good to be true, it probably is. Also, even when we see the large print "FREE!" it is wise to read the small print to find out what we might end up paying for that we don't want. Society has trained us to suspect there is a catch somewhere and that "FREE!" does not necessarily mean it is so!

However, there is One Whose word we can trust completely. What He has warned, we'd better believe. But what He has promised, we can fully believe as well. (note 2 Corinthians 1:20)

From our Lord's own lips come the offers. . .

"(31) So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, 'If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, (32) and you will know the truth, and THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE! . . . (36) SO IF THE SON SETS YOU FREE, YOU WILL BE FREE INDEED.'" (John 8:31-32 & 36) ESV)

And. . .

"(6) And he said to me, 'It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. TO THE THIRSTY I WILL GIVE FROM THE SPRING OF THE WATER OF LIFE WITHOUT PAYMENT." (Revelation 21:6 ESV)

"FREE!" is good! Our Lord's promises are good! No small print to worry about! No tricks to get us to buy something else.

Paul also encouraged. . .
"(23) For the wages of sin is death, but THE FREE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD." (Romans 6:23 ESV)

"IN CHRIST" (i.e. Galatians 3:27) we have what He has offered us. What is "FREE!" cannot be bought! What is "FREE!" cannot be earned. What is "FREE!" is so, because our Lord already paid for it so He can offer it to us free and clear! May we abide in our relationship with Him knowing we will receive what He has promised!

Have a great day KNOWING THE GOOD AND THE TRUE HE OFFERS!
Carl

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Guarding Against Straying! (part 2 of 2)

Facing the reality of clever perverters of the truth and how even our own desires can lead us astray, how can we keep our focus where it ought to be? Jude offered three antidotes to aid in remaining faithful to God.

We read. . .
"(20) But you, beloved, BUILD yourselves up in your most holy faith; PRAY in the Holy Spirit; (21) keep yourselves in the love of God, WAITING for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life." (Jude 20-21 ESV)

Whether it be that we are faced with false teachers or wrong passions, these three antidotes mentioned by Jude are key to refraining from being influenced away from the Lord.

First of all we are to continue BUILDING OUR FAITH. We are to be diligent in making certain our life is being BUILT UP on the truth of Jesus Christ. He must remain the foundation on which our life continues to stand.

Secondly, we are to continue to PRAY. PRAYER is to be a vital part of daily life. The focus is to be kept on God and the need for His guidance. Be encouraged we are not in this alone. May our constant communication with the Father continue.

Thirdly, we are to WAIT patiently as we press on in life. We are to daily live in expectation of the Lord's return. That is when we will fully receive that merciful entrance into eternal life. Let us live always prepared for whenever that time will be.

BUILDING our faith, PRAYING, and WAITING for the Lord will aid in keep our focus where it ought to be. May we continue exercising due diligence in these areas as we live in joyful expectation of the eternity to which our faith in Christ is leading.

Have a great day HOLDING TO HOLY FAITH IN CHRIST!
Carl

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Guarding Against Straying! (part 1 of 2)

In Jude's short letter, he urged his readers to be on guard. There are both external and internal influences that can lead away from the truth of God.

Warning with regard to external influences, Jude wrote. . .
"(4)For CERTAIN PEOPLE HAVE CREPT IN UNNOTICED who long ago were designated for this condemnation, UNGODLY PEOPLE, WHO PERVERT THE GRACE OF OUR GOD INTO SENSUALITY and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ." (Jude 4)

God's grace is great. However, it was not extended so that we could live any way we want with the expectation His grace will simply cover it. Regardless of what some may teach, God's people are to strive to live godly lives. Through such living we reveal our true appreciation for God's grace. Those who would live and teach otherwise fall under the judgment of God. (Jude 14-15) Therefore, let us remain on guard against the influences of FALSE TEACHERS and UNGODLY people.

The caution regarding internal influences needed to be kept in mind was what was at work in these false teachers. Jude wrote. . .

"(17) But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. (18) They said to you, 'In the last time there will be scoffers, FOLLOWING THEIR OWN UNGODLY PASSIONS.' (19) IT IS THESE WHO CAUSE DIVISIONS, WORLDLY PEOPLE, devoid of the Spirit." (Jude 17-19 ESV)

The Greek word translated "PASSIONS" is "epithumeo" which means "to fix the desire upon ("epi", upon, used intensively, "thumos", passion), whether things good or bad; hence, to long for, lust after, covet," [source: W. E. Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words] What is the craving -- what are the DESIRES -- that well up from within us? Are they godly or ungodly? PASSIONS can be strong! Therefore we need to be sure we are developing a PASSION for that which is right in accordance with God's Will.

Let us remain on guard against FALSE IDEOLOGIES and FALSE FEELINGS (desires and passions) that could lead us away from the truth of God. Jude eventually touched on three antidotes against such which we will -- Lord Willing -- note tomorrow. May we remain on guard against anything that might influence us away from our devotion to God and His Will!

Have a great day REMAINING PASSIONATE FOR GODLINESS AND TRUTH!
Carl

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Our Rescuer!

When a person is being rescued from stormy seas by those in a helicopter hovering above, that is where their focus generally rests. They often do not wish to look back down at the danger they are being lifted from, but rather to their rescuers to whom they will be TRULY INDEBTED AND THANKFUL. The same is true of one being hoisted up the side of cliff after having dangerously dangled over the edge with the threat of certain death hundreds of feet below. Having had such an experience some decide to never return to the sea or to climbing from rocky peaks. They have decided such presents too great a danger to chance falling into again. Still, how many spiritually are like the dog returning to its vomit or the sow returning to wallow in the mud after having been washed? (see 2 Peter 2:20-22)

In Paul's letter to the church at Colossae he exhorted. . .
"(1) If then you have been raised with Christ, SEEK THE THINGS THAT ARE ABOVE, WHERE CHRIST IS, seated at the right hand of God. (2) SET YOUR MINDS ON THINGS THAT ARE ABOVE, not on things that are on earth. (3) For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God." (Colossians 3:1-3)

Why is it that so many -- after having come to Christ and thus rescued from death in sin -- keep looking back to the world and the life once lived? If we would truly recognize what we have been rescued from, why would we feel any draw back toward it? Perhaps it is because we have not completely died to the old life. It keeps resurrecting its head, but must instead be kept buried so as to have no more power over us. As Christians, we have presently been raised with Christ from the life of sin that once enslaved us. Therefore, let us keep our focus on Christ, our Rescuer from the wrath of God. (Romans 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:10)

We have been rescued from darkness to live in the light of the Lord. May we keep our focus on our Rescuer. Remaining ETERNALLY INDEBTED AND THANKFUL TO HIM should compel us to live daily in a manner pleasing to Him.

Have a great day PRAISING THE LORD FOR THE DELIVERANCE WE HAVE RECEIVED!
Carl

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"Danger Zone!"

To renew my food handler's permit for working as a volunteer at our local winter shelter, I have been restudying the book for taking the test this coming Saturday. Besides cleanliness, one of the key issues with regard to food remaining healthy (not allowing the opportunity for parasites and bacteria to grow) is for it to be kept at the CORRECT TEMPERATURE. There is a spectrum described as the "Danger Zone" which lies between 41 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Most bacteria does not grow in hot or cold temperatures and therefore for food to remain safe cold foods must be kept 41 degrees or colder and hot foods need to be kept 140 degrees or hotter. Food allowed to remain in the "Danger Zone" allows bacteria to grow fast and create poisons that will cause people to become sick.

Spiritually we need to understand there is a "Danger Zone"! The Lord labeled that zone as "LUKEWARM" where we read the following warning to the church at Laodicea.

"(15) I know your works: you are NEITHER COLD NOR HOT. Would that you were either cold or hot! (16) So, because YOU ARE LUKEWARM, and neither hot nor cold, I WILL SPIT YOU OUT OF MY MOUTH." (Revelation 3:15-16 ESV)

LUKEWARMNESS made them unpalatable to the Lord. Those who are spiritually cold are easily seen for what they are. Those who are SPIRITUALLY HOT are also clearly seen for what they are and become good contributors to the work of the Lord. However, those who are LUKEWARM are in the "Danger Zone" of being a distraction and creator of confusion with regard to the work of the Lord because it is unclear where they truly stand. They are wishy-washy rather than either solidly against or firmly for the Lord. Therefore these Christians were warned to "BE ZEALOUS AND REPENT." (Revelation 3:19 ESV)

Water that is cold is very refreshing. A hot cup of tea is good when one is cold or not feeling well. That which is lukewarm can be nauseating or repulsive and is often spit back out when either the cold or hot had been expected. Is our life pleasing to the Lord? Is the manner in which we live leaving a bad or a good taste in His mouth? Is it clear where we stand? May we stay out of the "Danger Zone" by REMAINING ZEALOUS for the Lord and His Will.

Have a great day BEING A HEALTHY CHRISTIAN PALATABLE TO THE LORD!
Carl

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Compelled To Give!

GOD SO LOVED that HE GAVE! (John 3:16) JESUS SO LOVED that HE GAVE! (Ephesians 5:25) PAUL SO LOVED that HE GAVE! (2 Corinthians 12:15) Many of the FIRST CENTURY CHRISTIANS SO LOVED that THEY GAVE; some even earnestly begging for the opportunity to do so! (i.e. 2 Corinthians 8:1-5) None of this giving was forced, but rather voluntarily offered. Truly knowing the love of Christ ought to also compel US TO GIVE of ourselves. (2 Corinthians 5:14)

Among some of the important teachings Jesus shared with His disciples prior to His death on the cross was. . .

"(34) A new commandment I give to you, that you LOVE one another; JUST AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, YOU ALSO ARE TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER. (35) By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:34-35 ESV)

JESUS' LOVE: the quality and standard by which love is measured. When our life is truly filled with the LOVE OF CHRIST we will have an endless resource from which to draw as we touch the lives of others in varying, but God glorifying ways. May HIS LOVE be evident in our life as WE GIVE OURSELVES first to Him (2 Corinthians 8:5) and then to fulfilling the Father's Heavenly Will here on earth.

Have a great day WITH CHRIST'S LOVE SPILLING FROM OUR LIFE TO OTHERS!
Carl

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"Technicalities" Or "Right"?

Technicalities or what's right? What is it we are most concerned about? Are you ever disturbed when you read of someone being guilty of some heinous crime, but having the case thrown out by a court because of a "technicality"? Perhaps it is the "technicalities" that keep so many lawyers and their aides employed. However, does it almost appear the quest becomes one for "technicalities" rather than for what is truly "right"?

"Look for the gray! Forget the black and white!
Look for the loophole! Forget about wrong and right!"

Things are not as "gray" in God's eyes as some would like to believe or live. It is dangerous if we decide to walk in the gray instead of the right. Why walk in the gray when you can walk in the "LIGHT."

John wrote. . .
"(6) If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. (7) But if we WALK IN THE LIGHT, AS HE IS IN THE LIGHT, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." (1 John 1:6-7 ESV)

Technicalities are not safe to count on. They may work in this realm, but God sees through all the smoke and mirrors of words and angles and looks into the heart. Jesus is our advocate before the Father. He's there for our defense. However, we deceive ourselves and cheapen His grace if we think that leaves us room to play the games of the world's courts.

Micah, the prophet, wrote. . .
"(8) He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to DO JUSTICE, and to LOVE KINDNESS, and to WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD?" (Micah 6:8 ESV)

May our refrain be. . .
"Look for the right! Stay from the gray!
Walk in His Light. It's the only safe Way!"

Have a great day WALKING IN THE LIGHT!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/03/1998 (edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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