All Aboard For 2024

 

Can you believe another year is in the books? Time marches relentlessly onward without asking for either our consent or approval. 2023 isn’t even cold yet and 2024 is already relentlessly marching for­ward. Nothing you and I can do will ever get that time back. With each passing day we creep closer towards time’s end. But, as always, with Jesus there is good news. * 2024 will bring with it days of defeat and satisfying success. * 2024 will bring with it both sadness and extraordinary joy. * 2024 will bring days of suffering bal­anced with days of healing. * 2024 will bring with it days of loss and others of enrichment. *For some 2024 will bring with it a day of finality.

But there will not be a single day in 2024 that you will have to encounter alone! We have One who can lift us up from de­feat, comfort us in sadness and sustain us through suffering. There is One who can truly place momentary loss into eternal perspective. And not to be forgotten, we have each other, charged with the duty of sharing in life’s highs and lows (Romans 12:12-15) and with bearing “one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2).

While we are powerless to keep time from sifting through our lives like sand through our fingers, we can do something about how we spend it. While much time will fall wasted at the feet of humanity, as a follower of Christ you can use your time to God’s glory and time will ultimately deposit you in His timeless glory.

John Denver was an excellent aircraft pilot. He was trained well and experienced. When on his last flight gauges showed his fuel tank near empty, he started looking for a landing site, but none was seen. Investigators said that he had switched to a second, reserve, fuel tank, but it didn’t matter. The plane went down; John Denver died. And the reason that the spare fuel didn’t matter is a warning for all of us. For even with all his expertise, he still neglected during pre-flight to see if the reserve fuel tank was full or empty. The Christian, Peter said, needs to make sure that every part of one’s Christian life is nurtured and growing, in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, with “diligence.” Neglecting one part can have eternal consequences (2 Peter 1:5-11).

[Matthew 6:33] God and Christ must be first in our lives, and not second. Jesus says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteous­ness, and all these things (v. 25-32) shall be added to you.” Our number one priority in this short life must be to go to Heaven or otherwise we most likely will not go there. Jesus says, “No one, hav­ing put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). If one doesn’t go to Heaven, there is only one other place and that is the eternal torments of Hell. “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul” (Mark 8:36).

We cannot put other people and other things ahead of our service and worship to God and Christ and still be pleasing to Them. They will not accept second best. Jesus says, “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and fol­low after Me is not worthy of Me” (Mat­thew 10:37-38). Jesus says the only way we can be worthy of God and Him is, “…you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30). We are to “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2). God is only “a rewarder of those who diligent­ly seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6), by putting Him first. Are we really putting God and Christ first in our lives? Judgment Day will be too late to find out if we haven’t. It is my prayer you experience an enriched 2024.

Proclaiming The Truth

 

Financial, lawless manipulation, and sexual scandals among high-profile people in politics and the media don’t surprise us. We’ve heard so much about it that we’re sick of hearing it. What else can we expect from Godless people who lie for a living?

A few generations ago there was a clear line between what should be mentioned in public and what should be kept private. That line was blurred by Hollywood mov­ies in the mid-1900s. It was erased in the rebellion of the 1960s and 1970s. Now people don’t even have a concept of what is decent and what is shameful. The Bible says there are things too dis­gusting to mention. When Paul warned about having fellowship with the works of darkness, he added, “for it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret” (Ephesians 5:12). Just because a thing is true doesn’t mean we should listen to every sordid detail about it. What angers God-fearing people is the lying and hypocrisy in those who make allegations and stir this news. There is a saying of Jesus that is often ripped out of context that does apply here: “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” (John 8:7). The Lord did not mean a person has to be sinless before he can point out another person’s sin. He did not tell us to be silent about evil because we’re not perfect. What he told those Jewish men was that they had no right to condemn this woman of adultery because they were adulterers themselves! Politicians today are like those Jews in the Bible. They lie repeatedly and accuse their opponents of making false state­ments. They convey many charges of sexual misconduct while they themselves are adulterers and pedophiles. People like this have no conscience.

Are some allegations false? Of course, they are. The story of Joseph is a good example. Joseph worked for Potiphar who trusted him implicitly. When Potiphar’s wife kept making advances toward Jo­seph, he refused to betray his master and sin against God. This scornful Woman lied and accused Joseph of trying to seduce her (Genesis 39)! She brazenly accused an inno­cent man of the very thing she had done! Joseph was thrown into prison because of her lie. His reputation and future appeared to have been ruined by a vindictive wom­an. But there is more to the story. In time Joseph was released from prison and rose to a position of great prominence in Egypt, being second in power only to Pharaoh himself. His life in a strange land began in humiliation and ended in honor, but the woman who falsely accused him was forgotten.

[Acts 2:38-39] “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise (everlasting life) is to you and to your children, and to all who are a far off, as many as our Lord will call.’” Just as Paul needed the courage to stand on the pagan Mars Hill and proclaim Christ (Acts 17:16-34), we need to stand today as a rock in the sea of postmodernism, denominations, and paganism, and proclaim truth. Truth, by its very nature, draws a line in the sand; it excludes everything else. The truth offends, and to offend today is being viewed as the greatest sin. That is the real reason that the world hates us and why the proclaimers of tolerance are intolerant toward us. Jesus’ disciples were concerned with this. After Jesus proclaimed that it was what came out of a person’s mouth that made him unclean (Matthew 15:11), they said, “Do you know that the Pharisee’s were offended when they heard this?” Jesus preached the truth anyway, because the greater sin is to let the lost blissfully drift by while our hands never extend from the rock of truth to save them. Do you proclaim truth? Why not?

Facts That Save!

 

Well, the Greatest Generation, (the “G.I.” Generation), born 1901-1927, has all but passed on to the great beyond and in a way I’m happy for them that they cannot see all they fought for is systematically being destroyed by tyrants they opposed all their life. The Silent Generation, born 1928-1945, stopped fighting - to go along, to get along. Sad!

Examining the situation of thought and the direction mankind is presently taking to govern one’s life “more rationally,” it’s obvious we are quickly advancing toward a precipice of total irrationality concerning natural law. Tipping the “laws of nature” to fit theories, yet to be proven even in the slightest amount, is a very dangerous endeavor threatening every living thing on the planet. Just one small example of the irrationality of CO2 confinement is contained in the future of food production. We are told that CO2 is bad for us and causes “climate change.” Ideal CO2 concentrations are about 5 parts per million in our atmosphere for proper photosynthesis and plant growth. Already the atmosphere has been depleted of CO2 to almost 3 parts per million and real scientists warn if it drops much lower natural growth will begin to die (trees, grass, food plants, flowers, etc.). Environmentalists tell us we won’t need farmland or fertilizers anymore because food plants are going to be hydroponically grown in huge warehouses with man- made nutrients and water feeding them to maturity. They also say the warehouse interiors will have to have an environment of about 6 parts per million CO2 for optimal growth of such plants. WHAT? So, as we strive to become zero carbon, CO2 emission free, consider the fact that we are slowly destroying the planet, not saving it. And might I remind you – the greatest carbon-based emission wanting to be eliminated, is YOU!

There are many so-called “myths” out in the religious world. Many people believe things that have been created by man, but no evidence can be found of this “myth” within scripture. Millions of people are going to be disappointed when it comes to the Day of Judgment, and they have placed so much faith in the words of man. Let’s discuss a couple of these “myths.” Many people believe that “just living a good life” is all that is required to get to heaven. “If I don’t steal anything major, stay faithful to my spouse, don’t kill anyone, or just generally try to be a good person, I will go to heaven,” is often the belief of many. But if “just being a good person” saves you, why then does the Bible teach differently. Take the case of Cornelius in Acts 10. Cornelius was described as upright, devout, prayerful, fearing God, giving generously to those in need, respected by all Jews. He would definitely be considered a “good” man. But even Cornelius was told that he had things he needed to do in order to be in obedience to God’s Word. “And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 10:48).

[Romans 6] Being a Christian involves more than just being a “good” person. Many other people believe just having a faith in God will save you and will get you the reward of Heaven. If faith only saves us, why then does the Bible teach us more has to be done? In James 2 we are given multiple accounts that we must have more than just faith to be saved. Faith is definitely important, but there is more to salvation than that alone. “So also, faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17). If we are not in obedience to God’s Word (works), then our faith is worthless and dead. Our faith must drive us to obedience to God’s Word. Without that obedience we will not be found acceptable in God’s eyes. Don’t believe the words of man. Take the evidence from within the Bible and live your life accordance to those words. God save America! Save us all!

Migratory Citizenship?

 

It’s that time of year when thousands of migratory birds are passing through on their way south to winter in Central and South America. Our small city has grown commercially since the late 90’s with fast food franchises, big box auto supplies, quick-mart fuel stops, restaurants, motels, retail stores, and food markets. And as brick and mortar go up the open spaces disappear, and a phenomenon has been experienced in a certain part of the city for the past two decades that can be scary the first time one sees it. An open grassy field before 2003 has now become a huge asphalt parking lot supporting a strip mall and grocery complex on one side and a fast food and gas station/quicky-mart on the other side with room for more buildings. Long story short, migrating birds have used this location, once an open field, as a rest stop for thousands of years and because of instinctive powers still do. The birds come in waves spending about two days each, then moving on. At its peak the parking lot will be black with birds, the few trees that were aesthetically left behind in the name of preserving nature, are filled with birds, the nearby powerlines are lined with birds, and one can hardly hear for all the chirping. Travel a single city block in any direction and one will notice the nearly total lack of birds. I guess the good thing about it all is the whole migratory thing is over within about six weeks but, of course, repeats in the spring.

One of the major controversies in our country is what to do about the many who are entering this country illegally. We do have laws in the books that tell how one can enter legally and become a citizen if one chooses. At the moment thousands are entering illegally with the help of the United Nations, the Red Cross, and treasonous politicians hell-bent on destroying the loyal, patriotic, freedom loving, law-abiding, capitalistic, middle-class that has made this country what it is today and is willing to defend their constitutional rights to be free. That statement will label me a domestic terrorist by the corrupt FBI. Our politicians seem to be totally perplexed by the invasion of people - they created! Some want to give them all amnesty and make them full citizens. Others want to “round ‘em up and head ‘em out” back to their own country. It seems most of the world hates where they live and the capitalistic U.S. but given the chance they flock here for the freebies. The problem is, they refuse to assimilate and want to change this free country into the dictatorship they just left. Stay home! But the invasion has a purpose – destroy our way of life! God save America!

[Matthew 23:13-35] This whole thing reminds me of those who want to go to heaven, but don’t want to follow the “rules” which Christ set down for becoming a “citizen” of His kingdom. Many prefer to make up their own “rules” for heavenly citizenship – thus they feel they can enjoy the benefits without fuss or bother. The scribes and Pharisees were like that, and Jesus called them hypocrites, serpents, blind guides, and murderers. One example of changing Jesus’ “rules” for heavenly citizenship is teaching that repeating the “sinners’ prayer” is all one needs to do to go to heaven. Neither Christ nor His apostles ever told anyone that that was what to do to be saved. Jesus stated that only those who do His Father’s will can enter the kingdom (Matthew 7:21). Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). If there are commandments (rules) for being a Christian, then we MUST follow those rules to be a true citizen. Those rules are found in the New Testament – not in some man’s notion or some decision made by a council or convention of delegates. Christ is King and has all authority (Matthew 28:18). He knows who a true citizen of His kingdom is. I would not count on amnesty on the day of Judgment! We don’t instinctively migrate to heaven; we work out our own salvation! (Philippians 2:12).

The Dangerous Far Country

 

Lawrence Peter "Yogi" Berra (May 12, 1925 – September 22, 2015) was a professional baseball catcher who later took on the roles of manager and coach. He played 19 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) (1946–1963, 1965), all but the last for the New York Yankees; an 18-time All-Star and won 10 World Series championships as a player - more than any other player in MLB history. “Yogi” is also remembered for his quirky quotes and nonsensical sayings. Among them are: “You’ve got to be very careful if you don’t know where you are going, because you may not get there;” and “There are some people who, if they don’t already know, you can’t tell ‘em;” and “I’m not going to buy my kids an encyclopedia. Let them walk to school like I did.”

Adults who care about young people begin to encourage them at a young age to be diligent in their schoolwork, and to stick with their education through high school and even college. Education can help young people grow up to be more productive in their communities, get better jobs, and become better providers for their families. But I remember some of my classmates who quickly became bored or dissatisfied with schooling and decided that life had more to offer than classrooms, teachers, and administrators. They one day walked out of the school doors never to return… dropouts. This is sad because of the missed opportunities that likely resulted, and the problems that may have been caused by their lack of education. But as I bring to mind those who quit their worldly education, I realize how much more severe and detrimental it is when people, young and old, “dropout” of the Lord’s church. Sometimes young people begin attending church services upon the wishes of their parents, and later be added by the Lord to His body (Acts 2:38, 41, 47). But soon they are drawn by the world and turn away from the Lord and His children toward sinful living.

Consider the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. The son was oblivious to the riches he had at his very fingertips, and he longed to explore the “far country,” where the sinful pleasures of the world awaited him. But his eyes were opened by the harsh realities of worldly living. Then, devoid of food, friends, and family, he cast his mind back to his home where his loving father had loved and cared for him his entire young life. Maybe you have been yearning for the far country, or perhaps you are residing there now. I beg you to cast your mind back to the rock-solid reality of Christ’s love, and the inevitability of eternity in either heaven or hell. Don’t do the Lord any “favors” by going through the motions of Christianity, while your heart is in the “far country” (Matthew 15:8). If you have dropped out of the life you once lived for God, the door is still wide open, and the Father stands watching, waiting for your return (Luke 15:20).

[Luke 15:1-7] Once there was a boy lost in the woods. The alarm was sounded. The whole community responded. Fishermen abandoned their nets and merchants closed their shops. Plows were left in the field as everyone turned out to search for the little one. They moved in a feverish pace for the night would soon be getting darker and harm might befall the lad. After several hours of searching, he was found and with what joy was felt because of the rescue. Today he is no longer a lad, but he is lost again! Yet, sadly, none seem to care. No alarm has been sounded on his behalf. Many “family members” don’t even seem to care. Yet, a worse fate awaits him now. He is lost in sin! Does anyone care enough to help? The world needs to return to the Bible, the Word of God, for relief from the evils of sinful living. Rescue the perishing, snatch them from the fire (Jude 23-17).

Time Is Precious

 

In the early 1970’s, William Jenny, a retired clock maker in his 60’s, was employed by the prestigious Savoy Hotel in London to keep 1,105 of their time pieces correctly set and wound. The winding of the clocks took four days before starting all over again. It is said that Mr. Jenny could tell the correct time (within half a minute), any time day or night, without using a watch. The British medical association put Jenny through some exhaustive tests to discover what they called “an acute psychical poise” but without success. Did he possess some sort of miraculous gift? No, I don’t think so. Many people can determine to wake up at a certain time and do; you may have done that yourself. While in business I could tell what time it was plus or minus ten minutes and I’m still pretty good at guessing the time today. I would suggest Mr. Jenny was so involved with clocks and time all his life that his brain (which God gave him) could subconsciously mark time, much like we do even when keeping time in a song. Be it of historical value, or legendary myth, or a preacher’s tale I know not, but we can apply it to a Biblical ideal.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly with all wisdom…” (Colossians 3:16). The human mind is able to absorb huge amounts of detail, store them and use them logically. Show me a person who knows more Bible and I will show a person who has studied more Bible. Keep filling and fueling your mind with God’s Word and you will recall Bible information in a more efficient, and logical way, with proper application.

[ 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11] What would you do to be at the birth of your child? Would you miss work? Skip an important meeting? Risk disappointing customers and co-workers? That’s the decision Daniel Hudson faced a few years back. Only Daniel isn’t in the corporate world; he’s a relief pitcher for the Washington Nationals (at the time of this story, 2019. He is now with the LA Dodgers). And, despite it being the 1st game of the National League Championship, Daniel’s decision was easy - go to the birth.

For Hudson, family is a top priority. He explained: “Baseball is what I do; it isn’t who I am.” He made the decision to be at the birth, no matter what the consequences. And that decision angered many people. Some posted derogatory comments on social media. In their minds, missing a championship game was inexcusable! But Hudson also received support. A fellow pitcher said: “We sacrifice so much, and we miss so much during our careers. We miss graduations and weddings. Lots of players might miss their kids’ first steps or first words. They’re gone six to eight months out of the year and can’t take their kids to school or help their wives with taking care of the kids. So, when he said, ‘Hey, I need a day to be with my family because my wife is about to give birth,’ it was a no-brainer for me, and we focused all our energy on picking him up.” Daniel’s example is a good reminder; “what you do,” for a living and “who you are” are not the same thing. We should all answer the question: “What won’t you miss?” And answer in advance so you won’t second-guess in the moment.

If you are a Christian, you are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14), called (2 Peter 1:3), and chosen (Revelation 17:14). You are a minister and a witness (Acts 26:16), a saint (Romans 1:7), a soldier (2 Timothy 2:3), and a steward, (1 Peter 4:10). You are a citizen (Philippians 3:20) and an ambassador (2 Corinthians 5:20). You are loved (John 3:16). That’s who you are. Your vocation is a choice. So, whether you make or miss events in this life, decide today to endure in the faith. Then you won’t miss the most important thing: eternity in heaven. Be like Paul; serve Christ well (Philippians 1:21-26).

After Thanksgiving Sale

 

Many phrases inspire quick responsive behavior on the part of others. “Fire!” “Run!” “Help!” “Dinner!” “Free Television!” “Incoming!” “Snake!” Right alongside these declarations “After Thanksgiving Sale” and “Black Friday” must reside. Each year, prior to Thanksgiving the advertisements come pouring out. Shopping men and women dutifully take note, writing down all the particulars or saving the printed ads and searching web sites for the best deals. Many literally write down a schedule of where they need to be minute by minute and what they specifically need to obtain in each location of every store. They know the prices, shapes, sizes, and colors of their objectives. Their priorities are established. It is not unusual to see long lines of people waiting early in the morning hours before stores open whether it is cold, dark, or rainy. Not only do these folks come early, but they also stay late! Busy with the priorities of the day, their life is driven like no other time throughout the year.

Let us consider another moment – “Sunday morning.” “The First Day of the Week.” “The Lord’s Day.” Sunday morning is a time when the Lord’s church gathers as was the example in the early days of the church (Acts 20:7). At that time, they sang hymns to God (Ephesians 5:19) and partook of communion as Jesus had commanded them to do in remembrance of Him (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). The Christians encouraged one another by gathering at these assemblies (Hebrews 10-25) as they also gave cheerfully a collection to further the Word of God and aid needy saints (1 Corinthians 16:2). In the midst of this gathering, Christians also received the Word of God which was able to save their souls (James 1:21). Sunday morning truly offers great treasure! Praising God, glorifying God in obedience, remembering the Savior of mankind, aiding others, and enjoying their fellowship, and partaking of spiritual nourishment to make one complete (2 Timothy 3:16-17). My daughter used to wake up as a little girl and declare “It’s day!” She woke prepared to get going with the day. How energized do you feel when you hear the phrase “It’s Sunday!”? Do you prioritize that day to the One who provides all things needed for life? (Acts 17: 28).

[Psalm 122:1] “I was glad when they said unto me, ‘Let us go into the house of the LORD’.” It’s Sunday!” or “After Thanksgiving Sale!” Which of these phrases brings more organization, excitement, and involvement to the Christian? Do they plan ahead their interaction on Sunday? Do they have their Bibles, notepads, and pens prepared? Are their lessons done ahead of time? Is their frame of mind prepared to glorify God or be a spectator? Do they engage in the singing with voices bright and reverence and cheer on their faces? When the congregation is viewed, does it appear everyone is at nap time, or at a funeral, or bored out of their mind, or disinterested? Does the Christian come early to fellowship with his spiritual brothers and sisters? Does he stay late or find opportunity throughout the day to engage in the work of God rain or shine? Where is your heart? Are you excited, day by day, as the coming of Jesus grows nearer (I Peter 1:13)? Is this what drives your behavior above all other aspects of your life? There are many phrases which may ignite your behavior such as “After Thanksgiving Sale,” “Free food and drinks,” and “75% off!” But may, “It’s Sunday! Let us pray, and study together the will of God for the fulfillment of our lives’” be among the phrases that ignite your heart, soul, strength, and mind being of priority above all things. “…taste and see that the Lord is good; …those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing (Psalm 34:8-10). “Salvation is FREE!”

Am I The Problem?

 “Psssst! I’ve got a secret! If I tell you, will you promise not to tell anyone else?” Have you ever put yourself into a situation like that before? Of course you have. Have you then ever gone on to share the “secret”? Yes, you have, haven’t you! But it’s what happens after you share the secret that makes you wish you’d kept your mouth shut. It’s hard to not feel superior when in possession of confidential information and it’s harder to control ourselves from wanting to be important. “Letting the cat out of the bag” can, and generally does, cause a lot of trouble, because as the “secret” gets told over and over, it tends to become a vicious rumor, which then has a nasty habit of changing lives. Sharing secrets can ruin friendships, split families, sink ships, lose battles, destroy credibility and, who knows, could ultimately change the world. There’s a great responsibility placed on you when “you’re the only one that knows” certain things, so keep it to yourself. The next time someone wants to share a secret, say, “No, thanks.”

The following inscription can be found on a tomb in Westminster Abbey, England. When I was young and free, and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country. But it too, seemed immovable. As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it. And now as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize: If only I had changed myself first, then by example, I would have changed my family. From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country and, who knows, I may have even changed the world.

[Galatians 5: 13-15] “…love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus shared the same thought in His great sermon and today we teach it to our children as “The Golden Rule”: “Do to others as you would want done to you” (Matthew 7: 12 & Luke 6: 31) Our biggest problem here is we tend to use our knowledge and “secrets” in an attempt to change those around us to become like us and do things our way. If you’re “long in the tooth” at all you already know that attempting to change anyone results in rebellion. Think about how you’ve changed over the years. Did the changes in you come by force or more by training, or greater yet, by example? There is a fundamental truth in our relationship with God, no matter what happens around us, no matter what others may be doing, we can be responsible before God only for ourselves. We have obligations to one another, but in the end, the only true change we control is within ourselves. So, think about this. If I study and work to show myself approved before God, what better example could I present? What then will I control, but my own attitudes and actions, how I think and how I will treat other people. I will do right, no matter what those around me do. No matter what happens, I must do what is right – what God expects of me. I will act responsibly. It’s not responsible to always be observing others and not ourselves, expecting others to change but not seek to change ourselves. In the end others may be influenced by me, but it is only my own destiny that I control. Are you having problems with others? Maybe you’re the problem. It is no secret; With God all things are possible.

“Oh, what a happy soul am I! Although I cannot see, I am resolved that in this world contended I will be; How many blessings I enjoy that other people don’t! To weep and sigh because I’m blind – I cannot, and I won’t.” Fanny Crosby (at 8 years old).

God Forgives and Forgets

 

One day a Christian farmer spent the day shopping in the big city. At lunch time, he entered a restaurant and sat down near some young men who happened to not care much for religion. When the farmer’s meal was served, he bowed his head and silently gave thanks for the food. One of the young men looked at the farmer and said in a loud voice, “Does everyone do that where you come from?” The farmer replied, “The pigs don’t!”

Once upon a time there was a man who called himself a Christian. But he was indeed a strange one. On Monday while he was at work, something went wrong. He forgot about God and cursed using the name of God freely. On Tuesday he heard something evil about a brother and he passed it on without taking the trouble or time to determine whether it was true or not. He even made the story a little worse than when he heard it. On Wednesday while making a business transaction, he saw an opportunity to take advantage of a customer and he did it for the few dollars involved. On Thursday he went to a friend’s home for a little game of cards – he didn’t lose much. Naturally there was a cocktail and a few beers. “A very cheap night of entertainment,” he told himself. On Friday he became angry with everyone with whom he was working. They could not see that all ought to be done his way and he told them off – really good! On Saturday his grocer made a mistake and did not charge him for a pound of butter. He rationalized it was the grocer’s fault and said nothing. On Sunday morning he went to church; took part in the services – the part where one sits in the pew and mutters to himself that the service is going too long. That night he stayed home to rest up, getting ready for another week.

Two brothers were caught stealing sheep. The villagers punished the young men by branding their foreheads with a hot iron marked ST for “sheep thief”. One brother ran from the village to another to hide from the stigma. When those villagers learned the meaning of the letters branded on his forehead, he fled to the next town. His life was lived in this manner until he died, hopelessly unhappy. The other brother, however, stayed in his home village determined to gain back the love and respect of his fellow villagers. He turned away from sheep stealing, and he paid back his debts. Over the years he became a highly respected citizen of his community. After many years had passed, a stranger traveled through the village one day. Upon seeing an old man with a strange brand on his forehead, he asked a life-long citizen about it. “It happened a long time ago,” the old timer replied. “And I don’t remember the particulars,” he said while scratching his head and searching his memory, “but I believe the ST stands for ‘saint’.”

[Psalm 40:1-5] “I waited patiently for the Lord and He inclined to me and heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet on a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth – Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear and will trust in the Lord. Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust and does not respect the proud, nor such as to turn aside to lies. Many, O Lord my God, are Your wonderful works which You have done; And Your thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.”

It is said that God has a short memory. When we confess our faults, repent of our sins, obey the commands of God – then when God forgives, He forgets. May our memories be equally poor with our fellow man. Rather, let us look to ourselves that we might stand before God, in that day, with clean hands and a pure heart. Lord save us.

Are You Complying As Instructed?

 

There is an old story of the west about how cattle act in winter storms. Some storms would start with freezing rains and the temperature would plummet below zero. Then, bitter cold winds would begin to pile up huge snowdrifts. Most cattle turned their backs to the icy blasts, and they would begin to move downwind until they came up against the inevitable barbed wire fence. In the big storms, they would pile up against the fence and die by the score. But one breed always survived. Herefords would instinctively head into the wind. They would stand shoulder to shoulder, head down, facing the blasts of the wintery winds. As one cowboy put it, “I guess that’s the greatest lesson I’ve learned on the prairie – just face life’s storms.” Christians facing life’s storms together, shoulder to shoulder, encouraging one another and praying for one another, fulfill God’s formula for the abundant life. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

When it’s raining, there’s no way to fix a leaky roof, and when the sun is shining, there’s no need. We are our own worst enemy and God knows this. He tells Ezekiel that as a watchman He is holding the prophet responsible for warning the people against enemies, both physical and spiritual, and if they didn’t take precautions, then their blood was on their own heads. Even God’s people won’t heed the dangers that threaten their salvation. To the elders He addresses on His way to Jerusalem, Paul warns them to first keep watch over themselves and then over their flock to guard against the wolves that would arise from within and without. Still, God’s people won’t heed the dangers that threaten their salvation. It is no surprise then that on the eve of the Good Shephard being struck and the sheep being scattered that Jesus would warn His disciples to “watch!” He doesn’t do this to get them to escape or avoid the coming spiritual storm that was about to burst but to prepare to weather it. Do we prepare …even when the sun is shining? Or are we going to sit under a dripping roof in the midst of a storm and cuss the rain? Are you watching? A big storm is coming!

[John 14:15] “Non-Compliant” … That’s the word that was written on his medical chart a few years ago. On one visit he happened to see it and asked why it was there. The nurse told him it was there because he was not complying with the instructions the doctor was giving him. You see, his sugar levels were not coming down and his cholesterol levels weren’t either. Although he took the medicine prescribed, he hadn’t started eating better. Should he have been surprised? He paid the doctor money but then wouldn’t follow his educated advice. Non-compliance is not limited to doctors and their patients. We see it everywhere! Speed limits are exceeded. Zoning laws are ignored. Students disregard the instructions of their teachers. And sadly, God’s unchanging Word is challenged, rewritten, or just plain ignored. The Lord’s commandments are good for us whether we understand them or not. When God’s Word conflicts with our life what do we do? Do we quit reading the Bible or tear a page out because it goes against the way we are living? Or do we repent and say, “Not my will, but Your will be done, Father.” God saw us dying in our sin and sent the “Great Physician” as our cure. Jesus has the right to make the rules and regulations of our salvation. “And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him” (Hebrews 5:9). Can one go to heaven while being non-compliant to Jesus and His Word? The obvious is NO! Just being a good person won’t get one to heaven. “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord” shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” (Luke 6:46). Obeying God is full compliance.

Laugh and Rejoice

 

The late comedian Victor Borge once said that “Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.” People need to enjoy life. I have heard it said, one of the greatest lessons about having cancer is it teaches a person that it is important to rejoice more. Life is a wonderful gift. Too many people are wasting it being negative or unhappy. Researchers have noted that the average child laughs 150 times a day. The average adult only laughs 15 times a day. We are losing our smiles, and a laugh is really nothing more than a smile that finally bursts. The presence of laughter improves virtually every situation. I recently read a suggestion from a marriage and family therapist who said that we should tell jokes at the dinner table to our family members. First, of course, we need to sit down long enough to actually enjoy being with our family. Laughter also blesses mankind with inner peace. Actor Alan Alda once said that “When people are laughing, their generally not killing each other.” It takes a willing heart to open up enough with another person so as to laugh with them. Laughter builds relationships. It rewards with memories. It is positive reinforcement. It reminds us that life is great!

The Bible pictures the Son of God as one who was full of joy. Children do not flock to grumpy people. As Jesus took the young people into his arms, I believe there were wonderful smiles and amazing laughter. It would have been the most natural thing for our Savior to have with them. He experienced every emotion a man could experience. The people who are the closest to God are the happiest. How close was Jesus to the Father? His closeness must have made Him a man who usually wore a smile. The promise Jesus gives the faithful servant at the end of time is “…enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25: 21, 23). Heaven is going to be a place where laughter abounds. There will be nothing to prohibit eternal rejoicing there. Laughter, then, is a momentary taste of divine blessings. It is a prelude to a greater time when we will all be in the presence of God.

[Job 14:1] In this life there will be terminal illnesses, tragedies, family and marital problems, many heartaches, and death. However, God has promised that with each burden He will provide the strength to sustain His children: “Cast your burdens on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved” (Psalm 55:22). The following are some Scriptural ideas that will help us deal with the burdens of life:

1)   Remember to take it “one day at a time.” No one can live tomorrow until it comes, so one might as well live for today. Do not worry about tomorrow, next week, or next year, just do your best to make it through the day (Matthew 6:34).

2)   Depend on family and friends for encouragement and comfort. Christians are to bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). In time of trials, having a spiritual family to depend on is indeed a wonderful blessing.

3)   Get closer to God. It is possible for one who is suffering to get bitter and turn from God. The Christian must have the faith to hold on to God and know that He is “…our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). By prayer and reading God’s Word, we can get closer to God. We talk to God and He talks to us. His Word will comfort us in times of despair.  “…the comfort of the Scriptures…” (Romans 1:4).

4)   Be assured there is a better world to come. Jesus said that in His Father’s house are “many mansions” (John 14:1-3). The “house” of course, heaven – a place where there will be “…no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying …no more pain” (Revelation 21:4).

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). PRAY!

Only An Eclipse?

 

On July 22, 2009, we experienced one of the longest total solar eclipses on record with a time of 6 minutes and 39 seconds. There is, of course, a difference between a “solar” eclipse and a “lunar” eclipse. A solar eclipse is when the moon passes between the earth and the sun, blocking out the sun. A lunar eclipse is when the earth passes between the sun and the moon and blocks the light shining upon the moon. Total lunar eclipses are much longer than total solar eclipses according to the keeper of longest records known as: The List of the Longest Stuff at the Longest Domain Name at Long Last .com. They claim way back on May 31, 318, there was a lunar eclipse that lasted 1hour, 47 minutes, and 14 seconds. Total solar eclipses on the other hand, according to Longest Stuff Wikipedia Encyclopedia and Hermit Eclipses, are much shorter. They claim the recent black-out of the sun on July 22, 2009, was the longest since July 11, 1991, which lasted 6 minutes and 53 seconds. They also added that total solar eclipses occur every 18 months or so. The United States has experienced several solar eclipses in recent years: August 21, 2017; July 11, 2020; and this very day, October 14, 2023. If you missed this one there will be a total (that means midnight black) eclipse in San Antonio, Texas, just a few months away, April 8, 2024. One more fact – most solar eclipses we experience are called “near perfect” eclipses, not a total black-out. The reason they are called “near perfect” is because all the experts say that theoretically, the longest a total solar eclipse can last is only 7 minutes and 31 seconds. Even the longest solar eclipse on record is only 7 minutes, 8 seconds back in 1955. Remember, the longest a total solar eclipse can physically last is 7 minutes, 31 seconds – period!

[Luke 23:42-46] When Jesus was crucified there was darkness over the land for three hours!! Jesus was crucified about nine o’clock Friday morning, in the daylight (the third hour of the day [Mark 15:25]). After Jesus had been on the cross for three agonizing hours, the darkness occurred, at noon. “Now when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the nineth hour.” This means the darkness lasted for three hours from noon until 3 o’clock in the afternoon. Jesus died in the ninth hour - so he was on the cross for a total of six very long excruciating hours. Within the natural laws of the universe, the sun cannot be darkened in the daytime for three hours – it cannot happen! Natural phenomena cannot explain away what happened that day. There were no sandstorms or rainstorms recorded for that day. Darkness lasting for three hours is proof that it was one of the supernatural events which took place during the crucifixion and death of our Lord. The only rational explanation is this. When hanging upon the cross Jesus became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21) which separated Him from God the Father because sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:1-2). He (Jesus) is before all things, and in Him all things hold together (Colossians 1:17). The incarnation wasn't Jesus's beginning. He set the foundations of the world in place, and He holds everything together. Hebrews tells us that Jesus is “sustaining all things by his powerful word” (Hebrews 1:3). When separated from God because He (Jesus) took upon himself the sins of the world, that separation caused chaos to set in and all of creation went into a tailspin (Matthew 27:51-53). The temple veil ripped from top to bottom, the earth quaked, rocks split, graves were opened, and many who were asleep arose. The darkness was a symbol of God turning His back on mankind until man’s sins died with Jesus. Jesus truly took away the sins of the world and left them in the grave. Why do we keep digging them back up? Through Jesus, thank God I am saved (1John 1:5-7).

Has Someone Got Your Goat?

 

Hoover Rupert used to say, "The measure of someone is the size of the thing it takes to get his or her goat." The old phrase “get your goat” refers to the sensitivity of racehorses. According to Dr. Rupert, racehorses are infamously high-strung. Horse trainers learned many years ago that highly sensitive animals like a stall mate, and a goat is one of the most suitable companions for a racehorse. In fact, once a racehorse has bonded with a goat, that horse would go crazy if the goat were taken away. On the theory that all is fair in love and horse racing, gamblers used to try to shorten the odds by stealing a thoroughbred's stall mate. The hope was to reduce the racehorse's chance of winning. From this practice, "to get one's goat" came to stand for upsetting a person so that there was a complete loss of temper. So, the measure of a person is the size of the thing it takes to get one's goat. What does it take to upset you? What does it take to make you lose your temper? How emotionally high-strung are you when you find yourself in a situation with your goat being out of the stall? Perhaps, we should give close attention to the words of Paul, "Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath" (Ephesians 4:26).

From the book Conformed to His Image by Kenneth Boa (pp. 143-144): During World War II, the famous heavy-weight boxing champion, Joe Louis, aided the war effort by giving inspirational speeches and recruiting. One day he was riding with a GI when they were involved in a minor traffic accident with a large truck. The truck driver got out and approached Louis, swearing, and yelling at him, but Louis sat quietly in his seat and just smiled. Later, the GI asked Louis, “Why didn’t you get out of the Jeep and knock him flat?” “Why should I,” Louis replied. “When somebody insulted Caruso, did he sing an aria for him?” Joe Louis didn’t have to prove who he was because he was secure in his own identity.

[Matthew 5:11-12] “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Jesus did not have to prove He was the Son of God when Satan tempted Him (Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13), or when the Jews asked for a sign (Matthew 12:38-39, 16:1-4; Mark 8:11-12; Luke 11:16; John 2:18, 6:30). Jesus did not have to prove He was the King of the Jews by calling twelve legions of angels to defend Him (Matthew 26:52-54). He did not have to prove His power by identifying those who smote Him while He was blindfolded (Luke 23:63-65), or by descending from the cross after He was crucified (Mark 15:25-32). He knew who He was and was secure in His identity. In due time, His Father would exalt Him (Acts 2:32-36).

If we are secure in our identity as God’s children (John 13:34-34), we will not have to prove it to doubters who insult us or our sense of piety. Although we may be tempted to “put on a show” of our righteous indignation so that they “recognize” our love for the Heavenly Father, there is no need to do so. We are already blessed of God, and He will honor us in due time.

Your influence is like your shadow. It may not always fall where you want it. Therefore, you need to be especially careful to see that wherever it falls, it will have a good effect on all. You may not be able to control the shadow, but you can control the one who casts the shadow. Make your influence count for God. Be not deceived! Others are being influenced by your example this very hour. Are you casting a “Christ-like” image?

Walk the Talk

 

Let’s be honest with ourselves. Sometimes we talk a good talk, but we don’t “walk the talk.” In other words, we don’t “practice what we preach.” We put on a pious show for those around us, when it serves our own interests to do so, but within our hearts we are different people altogether. Jesus told the religious pretenders of His day that they were “white-washed tombs” – pretty on the outside, but full of corruption and uncleanliness within (Matthew 23:27-28). How much do we really believe in what we “talk?”

In a small community in the Midwest, construction began on a new bar and dance hall. A great many in the little town were quite upset. They didn’t want this establishment in their area. The local church began a campaign against the facility, praying fervently that God would intervene and stop the opening of the bar. Shortly before the bar was to open, it was struck by lightning and burned to the ground. The members of the church were thrilled – that is, until the owner of the bar sued the church on the grounds that they were responsible for the destruction of his bar because they had prayed for it to fail in some way. The church members vehemently denied any responsibility for what happened, and stated they had no connection to the destruction of the bar in any way whatsoever. When the two parties appeared in court, the judge, after reviewing the evidence and the statements from both sides, commented, “I’m not sure at this point just how I’m going to decide this case, but I can say this: It appears from your respective claims that we have a bar owner who believes in the power of prayer, and an entire church congregation that does not!”

[James 5:16] Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Have you ever prayed fervently for something, and then acted surprised when you receive it? A congregation prayed and prayed that one of their members would be healed from a terrible disease. When the person was, it was overheard one of the members saying, “I wonder how that happened?” I’ve heard disciples attribute blessings to “good luck,” “chance,” and “pure coincidence.” Is it just possible that these blessings from above could have come about as a result of prayer?! Just how strong is our faith? Do you and I pray believing, or do we pray out of habit? Are we genuinely a people of abiding faith? Let’s “walk the talk.”  

[ Peter 4:12-13] …do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. When asked about their welfare, most folks will always respond, “I’m doing great!” Sometimes when they are obviously in pain they will still say, “I’m doing great!” I had one particular person explain their response to me by saying, “It makes my friends glad and my enemies mad.” There’s a lot of wisdom in that thought. Whenever I’m around a Christian who has fairly mastered the display of a joyful composure in all circumstances, I’m truly inspired. I want to be that way! I want to make the choice of a life that laughs in the face of adversity and smiles in the presence of pain. I want unending contentment and boundless tranquility in Christ. I want a bounce in my step when my load is heavy. I want my head held high when the cares of the world are threatening to pull it down. I want my suffering for Christ to be seen only by my Father while the world doesn’t have a clue. I want my countenance to make my friends glad and my enemies mad. I want to walk through life with a smile and not a frown. I want to inspire others to a greater mastery of their own problems. Prayer for the ungodly, pray for the persecuted, pray for God’s intervention.

God Has Warned Us!

 

I today am totally at odds with the foolishness of the electric mandates being shuffled into the lives of everyday people throughout the world when the cost, and reliability, and infrastructure technology is being orchestrated by people who couldn’t run a lemonade stand. Most of the “scientists” pushing this environmental calamity cannot substantiate their reason for doing what they are attempting to do short of job security. What these fools are attempting to do is impossible at this time in history. And don’t get me started on the fools organizing a one world government. Coming to a neighborhood near you is a world-wide famine due to their negligence. They are out to depopulate the world by three-quarters of its people by 2030. I have to question - who is going to feed and take care of these elite who think they are better than everyone else? If they fulfill their agenda all that will exist on this planet will be artificial intelligence, which they hope to integrate with and live forever. What a joke! They want to become as gods! There was once a team of scientists who challenged God. The said they could make a man in their own image just like He could. God said, “Well, you’ve misinterpreted that for sure, but let’s see what you got.” One scientist bent down to the ground and scooped up some dirt and God shouted, “Whoa! Wait a minute! To make this fair you’ll have to start with your own dirt!”

I beg you to pray for our country that God does not turn the whole thing over to the prince of this world. Do not give up! I pray you are prepared for the giant challenges coming our way and that your faithfulness in the Word of God does not wain.

[Romans 1:18-32] “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore, God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator, who is forever praised. Amen. Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion. Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.” God has warned us what will happen to those who refuse to obey His commands. If we don’t turn back to God, we will lose our country and our life - physical and spiritual.

Live In Humility

 

Millions of people in the United States look forward to September because of the beginning of the football season. An interesting footnote to the start of this year’s season is that the Pro Football Hall of Fame was founded sixty years ago, September 7, 1963, in Canton, Ohio. The purpose of the Hall of Fame is to honor some of the National Football League’s outstanding players of the past. But recently, football players of the present have taken to honoring themselves, especially after scoring touchdowns. Some have developed elaborate touchdown celebrations in the end zone with dances, back flips, and even leaping into the stands. Some of these celebrations have become so bizarre and excessive that the NFL has adopted rules and penalties for “going too far.” These celebrating players may have problems with humility; Ya think? Their job is to score touchdowns. Are these celebrations necessary? Do these players feel their performance is not sufficiently honored or applauded? Why do they need to show off? Why do winning racecar drivers have to do burnouts? Frankly, I don’t know. I do know, however, that most of us appreciate being recognized for the work we do. We are grateful when someone acknowledges something good, we did. So, don’t feel bad if there is a time you feel overlooked, or snubbed, when your good deed goes unnoticed. Truth is, your kindness probably is not unnoticed, and further, your kindness is certainly noticed by the One whose attention really counts: GOD! Some day your name will be called, and you’ll be inducted into God’s “Hall of Fame.”

[Psalm 118:24] "This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." Is that your approach to each day? Do you rejoice in whatever the day brings, or do you obsess over matters that really aren't important in the big picture? Do you allow the minutia of your life and a focus upon tomorrow to ruin the joy each day should bring? A fussy traveler was having trouble placing her belongings in the railroad coach. She put bundles first on the seat, then on the floor. She opened and closed windows, adjusted shades and fidgeted like a nervous hen. When her husband finally protested, she said, "I want to get everything fixed just right so I can enjoy the scenery in comfort." He shook his head and said, "Honey, we're not going very far, and by the time you get everything fixed the way you want it, the scenery will all be over." Many people go through life trying to get everything fixed "just right" so they can enjoy "the scenery in comfort." The sad reality is that life passes many folks by while they are fumbling around. Pity the person who is too busy getting ready for his earthly future and never sees the beauty and wonder of today. A senior citizen wrote down some powerful words along this same theme. Consider: “First, I was dying to reach my teens. And then, I was dying to get my license to drive. Then, I was dying to finish high school and start college. Then, I was dying to finish college and start working. Then, I was dying to marry and have children. Then, I was dying for my children to grow up and move out on their own. Then, I was dying to retire. Now I am dying... and suddenly I realized... I forgot to live.”

There is nothing wrong with planning for the future, though we are forbidden from worrying about it (Matthew 6:25-34). But, if our focus is always on tomorrow or next year or the next stage in life, we'll likely miss out on the beauty God has placed in today! Think about it and live now, for the Lord, rejoicing in His will and walking in the good works He has prepared for us today (Ephesians 2:10). It's good to long for heaven, but while we are in the flesh, let us focus on today (Philippians 1:21-26). “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less” – C.S. Lewis.

I Still Believe!!

 

Reno, Nevada is located farther west than San Diego, California. Look it up! While you are wondering why you have never noticed that before, you might want to grab a world map and note that Rome, Italy is located farther north than New York City. Since San Diego is on the Pacific Coast, we assume that no cities outside California could be farther west than San Diego. We picture New York City as a cold city, with long winters and heavy snowfalls, whereas Rome is considered to be warm and arid. Even though we know a little about San Diego and New York City, we should not assume that we know everything about those two places, particularly as they relate to other cities.

There was a man from Alexandria, Egypt named Apollos who was very intelligent. The Bible states that he was “…an eloquent man and mighty in the scriptures” (Acts 18:24). In a day when most of the population was illiterate, one would think that Apollos had everything figured out. But that was not the case. Apollos was only aware of the baptism of John, a baptism that became obsolete once the church was established. A husband and wife, Aquila and Priscilla heard Apollos speak. They were undoubtably impressed with his speaking abilities and his interest in the things of God. But there were still things Apollos needed to know. His knowledge was abundant but not complete. So Aquilla and Priscilla “…took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:26).

Someone once said, “A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.” Why? Because it produces stereotypes, half-truths, misconceptions, misunderstandings, and downright lies. The church has been a victim of “a little knowledge” for centuries. Someone hears that women are not allowed to preach during worship assemblies. The perception, therefore, is that women are mistreated, second-class members. The reality, however, is that there are typically more female teachers in a church than male teachers. Since churches of Christ do not use instruments in worship, the perception is that they either do not understand music or that they just want to be different. The reality is that if one were to read the New Testament without any prior knowledge of 21^st Century worship practices, he would never have the first idea to use an instrument to worship. Acapella worship is practiced in an effort to do Bible things in Bible ways. Before you think you know everything about every subject, investigate the facts again. Francis Bacon said, “A prudent question is one half wisdom.”

[Romans 1:16] In response to a question concerning a sermon heard about Jesus never dying, only going into a coma, and being revived by the cool air in the tomb, a magazine editor replied: “In this modern age of “user friendly” theology I make no apology that I still believe in the fundamentals of the Word of God!! I believe the miracles of the Bible are true. I believe, “In the beginning, God…” I believe God created the heavens and the earth in six literal 24-hour days; that Jesus was born of a virgin; that He literally, bodily, walked the shores of Galilee; that He healed the lame, raised the dead, and caused the blind to see. I believe He went to a hill called Golgotha and willingly laid down His life for the sins of man, and yes, I believe He died on that Roman cross. I believe that in three days He literally, bodily, came forth from the tomb victorious over death, hell, and the grave. I believe He ascended back to Heaven and sat down at the right hand of the Father, and that the same blood shed nearly 2000 years ago is still the only atoning payment for man’s sin today. And I believe that one day soon He will return for the blood-washed throng of believers, the church, to take them home to their Creator as His Bride. Scoffers and doubters may turn up their noses in disgust at old time religion, but I STILL BELIEVE!!”

Qualifications of Leadership

 

It was the reprinting in nearly every newspaper in nearly every city in America of Cato’s Letters that provided our Founding Fathers with the intellectual fuel that fed the fires of armed resistance to tyranny. John Trenchard and Thomas Gordon, the authors of Cato’s Letters, taught our ancestors as young men that kings are not above the law, and that when kings, legislators, or any other political officeholder (“magistrate” in the language of the time) forgets that he is the servant of the people and not their master, then the people are justified in reminding him of his role, peacefully, if possible, by force if necessary. On July 15, 1721, Letter No. 37 was published in London. In it, Gordon gave his readers several tests which when applied to magistrates would distinguish the “good” from the “evil” ones. The source of the standard by which the character of any magistrate could be measured was Algernon Sidney’s Discourses Concerning Government printed 1698. Gordon credits quoting Sidney to the letters being “an excellent writer” and to his Discourses Concerning Government being “eternally true.” Although it’s nearly unknown today, our Founding Fathers were of like mind when it came to Sidney and his book. In fact, Thomas Jefferson described Discourses Concerning Government as “the best elementary book of the principles of government, as founded in natural right which has ever been published in any language.”

Paraphrased and modernized in language to make it easier to understand and apply to our own time, first, here is Sidney’s list of what makes a man a good political officeholder: 1) Seeks the good of the people he represents; 2) Tries to be just and virtuous in his personal and public life; 3) Strives to be worthy of the faith and trust of his constituents; 4) Takes it upon himself to be a role model to young people by living a life devoted to truth and virtue; 5) Takes every opportunity to teach young people to love truth and virtue and to reject lies and wickedness, hoping to strengthen them before they reach the age at which temptations to lead a sinful and shameful life are strongest; 6) Does all of this, even if it might harm his career or negatively affect his popularity; 7) Always does what’s best for the people, regardless of whether it helps him or not; and, 8) Leads people to virtue.  

Now for the traits of an “evil” politician: 1) Believes that he is more important than the people he represents; 2) Does whatever it takes to stay in office, regardless of how it affects the people; 3) Sees government as a way to enrich himself; 4) Always decides how to vote on a measure by how it will affect his chances to get reelected, his public persona, or his personal wealth; 5) Never tries to find out how the people feel about the issues, as he believes himself superior to those who vote for him; 6) Tries to keep the people divided against each other and to stir up hatred among the people; 7) Knows that by keeping the people fighting each other they won’t ever realize that he is their common enemy; 8) Uses his influence to convince the people that the other party is filled with people who want to destroy them and how they are justified in avenging the wrongs done to them by the other party; 9) Calls it “sedition” or “rebellion” any time the people try to fight back and preserve their lives, liberty, and property; 10) Goes to any lengths, including lying, to hide his lack of integrity and criminal acts; 11) Teaches the youth that there is nothing wrong with lewdness or sexual immorality; and, 12) Uses all means at his disposal to keep the people ignorant, lazy, or afraid to stand up for their rights. Again, that was in the year 1721!

Not surprisingly, Gods qualifying characteristics for church leadership look like a blueprint for good political leadership – 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-4. God has given us rights for life that we may be individuals to love and help one another. Government is to protect those rights.

It Is What It Is or Is It?

 

The mood was light and happy as the men and women walked through the barbed gate into the camp for the first time. Rumors of the horrible activities which defiled these secluded scenes had traveled from person to person, but no one actually believed the stories. These people were nothing more than loyal followers of their fearless leader. All they wanted was a better home with better inhabitants. They were looking forward to a “better Germany.” The joy and laughter turned to sorrow and crying as Allied troops led the German men and women of the nearby communities through each building at the concentration camp at the end of WWII. Their eyes were opened. Their Nazi leaders had been murdering thousands of people from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities. They could no longer hide behind their ignorance as they saw reality. Many later admitted to a previous knowledge of the concentration camps but had simply dismissed it from their mind. They became increasingly numb to the reality of innocent bloodshed and mass horror in their own backyard. Christians look on the Holocaust and find it difficult to believe that that many people ignored the horrors around them. However, many individuals, even Christians, seem to ignore another horrific situation, the loss of the majority of the souls around them (Matthew 7:13-14). The Lord depends on us to stay focused (Mark 5:6-20).

“It is what it is.” How many times have you heard that phrase? How many times have you said those words? What is meant by, “It is what it is?” Sometimes those words express resignation. One can hear it in the voice. One can see it in facial expressions and body language. Somebody has decided that it is what it is, and there’s nothing that can be done about it. But sometimes those words express acceptance. While some may see resignation and acceptance as synonyms, I believe there is a slight difference. Acceptance means that I need to take off my rose-colored glasses and see things as they really are. It does not necessarily mean that I must resign myself to the fact the situation can never change. I wonder what would happen if we began to view “it is what it is” as a challenge? We could be honest enough to accept things as they are but refuse to resign ourselves to them staying that way. We could roll up our sleeves and get to work making positive changes. We could use our time, our talents, and our energies in an effort to make things better than they are now. The goal would not be to improve things to satisfy ourselves. The goal would be to seek to satisfy our Creator. The evolution of world governments to a New World Order will support a religion of worshipping nature instead of nature’s God – creation rather than the Creator. Already the United Nations Sustainable Goals have influenced the world’s governments and convinced environmental agencies of many false “scientific” theories causing much of the world’s population to step back and say, “It is what it is, what do you want us to do?” The goals of the World Economic Forum 2030 is to destroy capitalism and dethrone God. Also, no one will own anything and be happy. If this is news to you, maybe you’ve been thinking “it is what it is” for too long! Totalitarianism is upon us all!

[1 Timothy 4:1-3] Reality checks are good for Christians. Apostasy numbs one to sin. “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods…” The “Great Reset” will control everything – personal finances, thought and speech, ownership of anything, religion and worship, family, and much more. “It is what it is” until reality comes knocking on your door to enslave you.

Read It; Believe It

 

An inexperienced preacher was to hold a graveside burial service at a pauper’s cemetery for an indigent man with no family or friends. Not knowing where the cemetery was, he made several wrong turns and got lost. When he eventually arrived an hour late, the hearse was nowhere in sight, the backhoe was next to the gaping hole, and the workers were sitting under a tree eating lunch. The diligent young pastor went to the open grave and found the vault lid already in place. Feeling guilty because of his tardiness, he preached an impassioned and lengthy service, sending the deceased to the great beyond in style. As he returned to his car, he overheard one of the workers say to the other, “I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years and I ain’t never had one blessed before.”

In 1957, Lieutenant David Steeves walked out of the California Sierra Mountains 54 days after his Air Force trainer jet had disappeared. He related an unbelievable take of survival after parachuting from his disabled plane. For almost three months he said he had eaten berries and dug snow tunnels to sleep in, had seen no one during the entire time and finally walked out on his own. By the time he showed up alive, he had already been declared officially dead. His story was viewed with much skepticism because during that same time frame his assigned unit had been sent to the Korean War. When further search failed to turn up any wreckage, a hoax was suspected, and Steeves was forced to resign under a cloud of doubt. He lived for two decades branded as a deserter and possible spy. One story had him selling the plane to the Russians; another shipping it piecemeal to Mexico. Steeves died in 1965.

In 1977 a troop of Boy Scouts hiking through Kings Canyon National Park discovered the wreckage of Steeve’s plane and his story was confirmed. His family was issued an apology from the military and was told that Lt. David Steeves’ name was reinstated with honor. One of Steeves’ friends, Eugene Juneet, after the ceremony told the Associated Press, “This was nice,” but then he added, “I just wish someone would have believed Dave back then…”

[Mark 16:9-14] “When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it. Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either. Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.”

It is sad that so many value their own thoughts and beliefs more than they do God’s Word. Yet, Jesus said we would all be judged by the Words which He spoke, which came from God (John 12:47-50). He also said that not all who claim to call on His name would be saved, but only those who do God’s will (Matthew 7:21-23).

Doesn’t this sound a little scary about plowing ahead with life without really digging into Bible study? It should! We can’t rely on what someone tells us about salvation. It is our responsibility to know and do what God has said! The road to eternal life is found in the pages of the Holy Bible. Let’s read it, study it, and then do what God has commanded. “These (things) are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name (John 20:31). Read it; Believe it!

What's Weighing You Down?

 

A newly retired couple purchased a boat and after launching it for the first time they discovered they were having serious problems. No matter how hard they tried they couldn’t get the boat up and moving. It was sluggish no matter how much power was applied. They creeped to a nearby marina hoping someone could tell them what was wrong. A thorough check on the topside of the boat revealed everything was in perfect working condition. The engine ran fine; the outdrive went up and down; the propeller was the correct size and pitch. Then one of the marina workers jumped into the water to check underneath. He surfaced with chocking laughter. Under the boat, still strapped securely in place, was the trailer used to transport the boat.

How often have you been guilty of the same thing? We sputter along in our spiritual lives, wondering why we’re not making much progress; wondering why we don’t feel any closer to God than we do. We take a spiritual check of the situation and find that we’re attending worship regularly, we’re reading our Bible, we’re praying. On the surface, everything appears to be what it ought to be. But underneath the surface lurks some sin that we have allowed to latch hold of our life. And there it lies, unforgiven, maybe even unrecognized, maybe even still in practice, dragging us down. Though the Hebrew writer used the image of a runner as opposed to that of a boat, the concept is exactly the same, “…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1). If your spiritual life is sputtering along, perhaps you would do well to look for sin that lies beneath the surface. Throw off everything that hinders you, and you’ll find other things accelerate.

[Colossians 3:16] Another reason Christians become downtrodden and discouraged is because they try to walk alone. We look at the perfect life of Christ and decide, “How can I measure up?” Remember, He was the “God-man,” He was divine as well as human.

We must realize there is no way we can walk alone and at the same time be successful in living the Christian life. We must follow in the steps of Jesus (1 Peter 2:21; John 8:12, 10:27, 12:26). We must allow Him to lead the way. Sometimes we want to get ahead of Him. But Christ knows how to lead because He has been over the way. He has gone ahead and blazed the trail. We need to follow Him, putting our feet in His footprints. Jesus knows all of the pitfalls and where the snares are, and He will safely guide us around them, if we allow Him to. As we follow Jesus, He will take care of us, (1 Peter 5:6-7; John 12:32; Matthew 28:20; 1 John 1:7). When we try to walk alone, we are without strength and endurance. We are destined to faulter, stumble and fall. Let us abide in Christ always, (John 15:1-8; 2 John 9; 1 John 2:6). The apostle Paul felt greater power living for Christ, (Philippians 4:13; Romans 1:4-6; 1 Timothy 1:12-15). Mankind is imperfect, though we try our best not to be. Other than Christ, no human being has lived a perfect life, (Romans 3:23; Isaiah 64:6). All the Lord requires of us is that we do our very best, beyond that we cannot go. As long as we are in the world, we will be subject to temptation. Therefore, we should pray as Jesus taught us, “And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one” (Matthew 6:13). Don’t become despondent when you recognize you have sinned. Ask God’s forgiveness and determine to live a better life. When you do so you will have grown a little taller and walked a little farther with the Lord toward eternal life.

God's Longsuffering

 

The Roman Empire was one of the most powerful in history. There are still many things that are in use from that time that stand as a testimony to its greatness (roads, aqueducts, government structure, etc.). There was no other nation of people that could have done to Rome what Rome did to itself. The Roman empire was not conquered in a single battle. It was not overcome by any outside force until Rome was overcome and set up for destruction by its own hand. The Roman Empire was fractured by internal conflicts that gave an opportunity to outside forces to take advantage and cause the final breakup. If Rome had not rotted from the inside, they would not have fallen prey to forces from the outside. Open your eyes America! Conflict is rotting our country from within, and China, Islam, and lustful sin are the forces waiting at the door to finish off this great free nation.

[2 Peter 3:9] One of the greatest attributes of our Heavenly Father is, without a doubt, His longsuffering toward sinful man. Peter told us, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some call slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” It has been asked, “What is the difference between ‘mercy’ and ‘grace’?” I have heard the following explanation. ‘Grace is where God gives us what we do not deserve; mercy is where God does not give us what we deserve” All of humanity enjoys the benefits of God’s grace. The very air we breathe, the sunshine each and every morning, and every good gift that God gives in a physical way are a manifestation of His wonderful grace. It was God’s grace that sent His son and provided instruction in the way of salvation (Titus 2:11). It was God’s grace that established the church and demonstrated the manifold wisdom of God. It is God’s grace that allows men another opportunity to repent and obey the gospel, even when they are living in open rebellion. On the other hand, it is God’s mercy that delays the sending of His Son. Justice cries out for divine vengeance, but God delays, and in His delay, men are provided yet another access to the wonderful blessing of God. It is God’s mercy that will eventually allow all of the redeemed to escape the punishment of His wrath.

When grace and mercy are combined a most wonderful picture emerges. When writing his letter to the church in Rome the apostle Paul chastised the rebellious Jews and reminded them, “Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4). The ‘riches of His goodness’ bespeaks God’s amazing grace, while God’s forbearance and longsuffering point us to His great mercy. The purpose of God’s grace and mercy toward mankind is not that mankind might continue in rebellion in hopes that some day everyone will, by some magical and mystical formula, be allowed to enter into the home prepared for the redeemed, but God’s grace and mercy are designed to ‘lead to repentance’ fulfilling that mankind obey His will. The longsuffering of God is not a bottomless pit wherein He will continue to tolerate the foolishness of men. Longsuffering is being extended in view of the fact that there may be a few men and women with tender hearts that can be touched by the Gospel. Only God the Father knows when the gavel will sound, and time will be no more. When that moment arrives, God’s patience will have been exhausted, and all of mankind will witness the coming of the Lord in judgment.

A.I. (Artificial Intelligence), essentially a computer program, is increasingly dictating how mankind is to live. It has already declared itself to be a god, has avatar’s preaching, and is rewriting God’s Word. Do you think God is ready and willing to be replaced?

What Should We Believe?

 

The passenger steamer SS Warrimoo was quietly knifing its way through the waters of the mid-Pacific on its way from Vancouver to Australia. The navigator had just finished working out a star fix and brought Captain John DS. Phillips, the result. The Warrimoo's position was LAT 0º 31' N and LONG 179 30' W. The date was 31 December 1899. "Know what this means?" First Mate Payton broke in, "We're only a few miles from the intersection of the Equator and the International Date Line". Captain Phillips was prankish enough to take full advantage of the opportunity to achieve the navigational freak of a lifetime. He called his navigators to the bridge to check & double check the ship's position. He changed course slightly so as to bear directly on his mark. Then he adjusted the engine speed. The calm weather & clear night worked in his favor. At mid-night, the SS Warrimoo lay on the Equator at exactly the point where it crossed the International Date Line! The consequences of this bizarre position were many: The forward part (bow) of the ship was in the Southern Hemisphere & in the middle of summer. The rear (stern) was in the Northern Hemisphere & in the middle of winter. The date in the aft part of the ship was 31 December 1899. In the bow (forward) part it was 1 January 1900. This ship was therefore not only in: Two different days, Two different months, Two different years, Two different seasons But in two different centuries - all at the same time!

How much of this tale can be true or proven is all based on those aboard the SS Warrimoo, which at the time was observed to be in the general area of the incident. Of course, there’s a twist in the story with a sidenote of Mark Twain, once aboard the SS Warrimoo while on a yearlong world tour to help pay off some of his debtors, was authoring a book, “Following the Equator” in 1895-1897. Seems a similar tale is recorded in the book as Twain’s twisted mind conjured up the idea of possibility. Who knows?

We today have more important things to converse and worry about like the unlawful actions of the FBI (Federal Bureau of Incarceration) and UFO’s (Unidentified Flying Objects), oh wait a minute, sorry, UAP’s (Unidentified Areial Phenomena). On one hand, right is wrong, patriotism is terrorism, the family is a conspiracy cult, and belief in God and following His laws and regulations for righteous living is somehow destructive to the natural order of mankind’s behavior - not the world I grew up in or the life God intended for us to live. On the other hand, there are Congressional Hearings being held to investigate UAP’s. All I can say is, if other beings are visiting earth from another part of the universe, there just isn’t much we can do about it. If these sightings are of a spiritual nature, then the end is near. Just another smokescreen to divert attention away from the lawlessness of the present administration. I believe we actually survive all this 21^st century foolishness and what we’re observing are test flights of time travelers. Who knows?

[Psalm 8:3-6; 2 Peter 3:7-10] I stand with the psalmist, in awe of the fact that in the universe God has made, He is mindful of me, a microscopic speck in all creation. I believe all of creation was made for mankind, the occupants of earth and no others. Peter writes that when the end of this age comes, the time when our spirits (we are made in His image – Genesis 1:26-27 – spiritual) will return to God, and all of creation will be consumed with fire, then all will be gone – earth, sun, moon, galaxies, everything! We can attempt to come up with all kinds of scenarios to change the narrative, but no one can deny the truth in the end. A.I. (Artificial Intelligence) is being developed to create a new collective (Star Trek Borg) to better mankind. The best life is a Biblical life in the family of God.

A Saucer Full Of Wants

 

An overnight guest at the White House was having breakfast with President Calvin Coolidge in the morning, and he wanted to make a good impression on the president. He noticed that Coolidge, having been served his coffee, took the coffee cup, poured some of its contents into the cup’s saucer, and leisurely added a bit of sugar and cream. Not wanting to breach any etiquette, the visitor followed the commander in chief’s lead, and poured some of his coffee into his saucer and added sugar and cream. Then he waited for the president’s next move. He was horrified to see the president place the saucer on the floor for his cat! Whether we realize it or not, people are watching us and are influenced by who and what we are, and what we are doing with our life.

I tell that little quip because I feel so embarrassed for many of our elected officials and the direction they are taking this country and the world. They have been duped and convinced to follow ridiculous ideals to improve societies and environments that any person in their right mind can see that society and the environment are only being destroyed through these practices. Our elected representatives have been influenced by unelected and appointed, whether officially or self-appointed around the world, people who pose themselves as “scientists” and “experts” on everything from finances to environment, spouting what is best for the world to “survive” mankind. Our Congress has been simply and blindly following their lead now for years without investigating any truth behind their claims or any long-term consequences. Now that whistle-blowers are starting to come forward with truths and facts many are standing around with a saucer full of money not knowing what to do next. A bigger government and more control of the people is what’s on the horizon with a worldwide digital currency and ID system – very soon.

[Matthew 16:26] Which is more important – the physical life one can see, feel, taste, hear, or – the spiritual life that lasts an eternity? Sadly, mankind has continued to answer the question by the way life is being lived; the physical life is more important. From Adam and Eve giving into their desire, David wanting another man’s wife, Judas’ love of money, to today, mankind lives in a way that would suggest they don’t believe in the hereafter or that there will be consequences for not seeking God first (Matthew 6:33). On the one day of the week the Lord sets aside for the worshipping and praising of Him, many do not bother. The rest of the week, people who call themselves Christians live just like the rest of the world. So, back to the Lord’s question, “What will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Not much it seems. One won’t give up sports or other secular activities. One won’t often give up sinful habits. One won’t give up their time to sleep on Sunday morning. That’s pretty cheap labor for the devil. People are willing to sell their soul for things that aren’t even good for their physical self. One could maybe see someone selling their soul to ensure the safety of another’s soul, but to sell one’s soul for alcohol, drugs, forsaking worship, sports, etc., a saucer full of wants, unbelievable! But it happens every day.

Is your soul secure? Or have you sold it to the devil for some trifle thing or activity? Please don’t get me wrong here. Life is meant to be enjoyed. All I’m saying is, the health of your soul (spirit) is more important, for the body will pass away, and we don’t know when, but the soul goes forward to live forever. Only healthy, sinless souls go to heaven. Take your soul back by turning back to God and put Him first in your life. After a while it will become a habit that you wouldn’t dare or want to break. Don’t sell your soul for anything! Jesus died to save your soul. Don’t give such a priceless treasure away!