The Gun on the Bible on the Desk

In the beginning God created…

Genesis 1:1

Nicole walked into the pastor’s office to tell him two reporters from the New York Times were here to see him. That’s when she noticed the handgun lying on his Bible. Bemused, she asked, “Is that for our two guests?”    

Following her line of sight, he smiled. “It’s a thought,” he teased, in light of the reason the reporters were here. They’d come to interview Pastor Ron and one of his parishioners.       

Jack Newbrook, a science teacher at the local Middle School, had been embroiled in employment-termination hearings for more than a year following the school board’s demanded that Jack remove all religious symbols, including his Bible, from his classroom. Jack had removed everything but his Bible, sighting his First Amendment right to leave it on his desk as long as he didn’t teach from it. Terminated without pay pending the final ruling, the hearings had just passed their first anniversary. It had been a long battle.        

As Pastor Ron locked the gun in his desk drawer, he explained to Nicole how the gun had come to be there. “I bought it from my brother-in-law. He was in town so he dropped it off to save me a trip.” Then on a mischievous note, he added, “But the Bible stays where it is. And if they mention it, I might just unlock this drawer.”   

†

Though somewhat humorous, today’s scenario is disturbing. Regrettably, events like this take place daily in public schools across America because the immoral-minority hates the sight of the Bible. To impose their ideology they must discredit it, part and whole, and are currently working toward that end by attacking “In the beginning…” with Evolution.  

Satan is patient. He’s been around for millennia. A few short generations mean nothing if he can attain his objective. He’s fine with baby steps as long as the silent-majority passively play spectator, unwilling to engage in the controversy. Because given time without opposition, he’ll get what he’s after.     

What will we do—or perhaps it will be our grandchildren—when they come to our homes and demand that we remove all religious symbols, including our Bibles?

 

Prayer

“LORD, may I not be ashamed of my life’s purpose as a Christian, to influence the world for Jesus Christ. Amen.” 

Childlike

When Jesus saw this, he became angry and said, "Let the children come to me! Don't try to stop them. People who are like these little children belong to the kingdom of God. Mark 10:14

“Mom?” little Jackie asked. “Did Mrs. Burson eat somethin’ sour?”

Janet, smiled as Jackie added, “’Cause she looks like she ate one o my sour apple candies!”

While formulating the proper response for a six-year-old, Janet watched in horror as little Jack skipped right over to Mrs. Burson, reached up and took her hand, “Did you eat some of your kid’s sour candy, Mrs. Burson?”

Janet hurried to head off Mrs. Burson’s response. To her surprise, Mrs. Burson smiled at young Jack. She looked him straight in the eye, and asked, “Do I look that bad, Jackie?!”

Before he could respond, Janet interrupted, “What Jackie meant to say was…”

With upheld hand, Mrs. Burson cut her off, “Oh, Janet, I’m quite sure he said what he meant. But thank you for attempting to ease the sting.”

Unconscious of his faux pas, Jackie innocently added, “Sometimes them sour apple candies give me a bellyache. Do you have a bellyache, Mrs. Burson?”

Totally at a loss for words, Janet waited for Mrs. Burson’s response.

“You know something, Jackie. I believe I do,” she said with a laugh. “Thank you for helping me ascertain the source of my displeasure!”

Jackie asked quizzically, “What’s an ascertain of displeasure?”

Mrs. Burson and Janet both broke into laughter!

†

Only a child can get away with such boldness. Their innocence disarms the normal offensive response we would certainly give to any adult who dared question the noticeable displeasure of our stern countenance. Why is that?   

Mainly, it’s because we know children are not malicious. They are unsullied by cynicism and cruel intent, we wouldn’t think of demeaning them for reaching out to us.

Jesus points out that those who possess such childlike innocence display an important characteristic of Kingdom citizenship….a very important characteristic, that if lost, we should hope to re-discover (ascertain).

Prayer

“Lord, my grown-up countenance is lacking in innocence. Please restore the childlike wonder and faith of my youth so I look like a citizen of Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Stocking the Shelves

Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.
Malachi 3:10

Grace didn't understand this “tithing thing,” as she put it. Yesterday’s sermon had been titled, “Stocking God’s Shelves.” The pastor had spoken about giving God the first fruits of our labor as an act of love and obedience. He spoke of God’s instruction to the Israelites on this matter, referencing Old and New Testament Scripture. He said, “In reality, everything we have is God’s. But because He loves us so much, He doesn't force us to tithe.” He spoke about reciprocity and how we can’t outgive God, reading from Malachi where God says, “Test me in this.”
Grace and her husband, Reggie, were new Christians. All this stuff was foreign to them, but they wanted to do the right thing. So, out of obedience, Reggie and Grace began giving fifteen percent of their income—ten percent for tithe, five percent of offering—to help stock God’s shelves. It was difficult at first, sitting down each payday and writing that first check to God. But they did it. And within the first two months, things began to happen. Reggie received a pre-evaluation raise, and Grace received an insurance settlement she knew nothing about. God was responding to their obedience to keep His storehouses full.

†

The subject of tithing makes many people uncomfortable, and many get offended every time the collection plate is passed.
Taking into consideration that there are those in ministry who pollute what God has ordained, Scripture is clear on our financial responsibility to God’s church. Building the kingdom requires finances. Whether we make a contribution or not is up to us.
When Jesus said, “The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil,” He was saying that we either trust in Him for what we need or we trust in ourselves.
When we hoard our money, we are stealing our own blessings because God cannot and will not bless those who do not sow into His kingdom. “Bring” is a command with both a choice and a promise attached.

Prayer

“Lord, teach me to trust You and believe. Help money to become a tool for the kingdom and not a vice that seduces my heart. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Nature’s Example

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2

Phil’s ten year old son, Kyle, fidgeted in the blind as they watched the first glimmer of light tint the eastern sky. “When’s somethin’ gonna happen, Daddy?”   

“Be patient Buddy,” Phil whispered, patting Kyle’s shoulder.

As light began transforming the morning from nondescript shapes into recognizable landmarks, he heard the sound of geese honking overhead. Flocks of migratory birds were flying south to their wintering grounds.

Phil wanted Kyle to witness one of nature’s most amazing events…and hopefully teach him a valuable lesson. As flock after flock flew overhead, Phil pointed and said, “Do you see how they all fly in a V formation, Kyle?”

“Yah,” replied Kyle, questioningly.  

Just then a lead goose left his position at the point of the V. This was the moment Phil had been waiting for, “Do you see how that goose dropped out of formation and is moving to a place at the end of one of the legs of the V?”

“Uh Huh,” Kyle grunted.

“Watch how the second goose in line moves up to take his place.”

 “Why’d he do that, Daddy?” Kyle asked in wonder.

“The flock has a long way to fly before winter, Buddy,” Phil explained. “They instinctively switch leaders every so often. By taking turns they conserve energy, Kyle. It’s how God made them.” 

†

Nature is not shackled by the belief it was meant to be self-sufficient or make it on its own. Only man instills that mindset in their offspring.  

Through the simple act of watching geese, Phil was teaching Kyle that although the world may tell him otherwise, it is not a sign of weakness to accept help. Wise people share their burdens; it’s one of God’s provisions for helping us overcome the sin that so desperately seeks to destroy us.   

We can learn a lot from Nature’s example. By sharing the responsibility of getting to where God is leading us we can avoid many of the pitfalls and barriers of life. And in so doing fulfill Jesus’ command to ‘carry each other’s burdens’.       

Prayer

“Help me to not refuse assistance in overcoming the world, Lord. Give me a humble spirit that understands the wisdom of accepting help. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Blind Spots

I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten…

Joel 2:25

Despite growing up in a secular home, Lee and Lynn managed to find the love of Jesus Christ. Time passed and each married and had children. As siblings do, each adopted their own unique style of parenting traits and characteristics; among them were a few that would have been better left to past generations.   

One lived a blue collar lifestyle while the other owned and worked a small business. Both grew in the knowledge and wisdom of God. In both were seeds; seeds of love, and seeds of familial apathy; the latter a hand-me-down from the prior generation. A generation that had fostered sibling apathy and indifference for reasons they couldn’t recall, nor cared to discover. And from this fertile soil grew a root that was unsatisfied with stealing just one generation of love and relationship. Lee and Lynn’s pride became a tool in the hands of an enemy so cunning and shrewd that they never saw it coming.

One moment in time, no one really remembered, became the wedge that was now planted firmly between them. Both were sure they had gone the extra mile to reconcile. Neither saw their blind spot. For the walls that had been erected stood tall, strong, and impenetrable; neither realized that what they despised in the other was a barrier of their own making.   

†

Satan began his attack on God’s family in the Garden…he will not relent unless both destroyed every relationship he can. And no healing will be promoted unless both parties seek resolution. When that fails to happen the locusts continue their feast.  

Stubbornness and pride have ended more relationships than we can imagine. The enemy knows how to manipulate us without our conscious knowledge or permission. He sows seeds of animosity and resentment against those we love. We become blinded by a need for vindication, and all reason goes out the door.  As far as we’re concerned we were the one who was wounded. It’s up to them to make the first move!

Is there anything so valuable that would justify continuing to fight while losing everything meaningful in the process? When we consider the loving forgiveness that God extended to us through Christ, can we do any less? 

Prayer

“Healer of relationships and families, show me if there are any blind spots in my life. Restore what the locusts have eaten. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Power of the Anointing

How I long for the months gone by, for the days when God watched over me.
Job 29:1

The crowd pressed in, as if leaning forward in their seats would get them closer to heaven. They were hungry for every word! This no-name evangelist was bringing a message full of indictment, yet it was so true that it could not be denied, and no one attempted to do so. He was calling them to repentance through a message about God’s anointing.
He was speaking about Job, and how in the midst of his greatest trials Job was remembering how blessed his life had been during the fullness of God’s anointing.
The words carried power and truth, conviction and challenge. People began to weep and fall to their knees in repentance. God’s Word was alive with His glory, and people were responding to the Holy Spirit's presence.
The pastor could sense a supernatural shift in the atmosphere; it was as if a portal from heaven had opened and God, Himself, was pouring out a fresh anointing on those who were bold enough to believe what the Scriptures proclaimed.

†

These people had come hungry for God. Not just for His healing or deliverance, but for God Himself. And in response to such hunger, God had shown up in power! He wanted them to know the truth embedded in the message in today's text: Job had been blessed with God’s anointing because he had rescued the poor and the fatherless; he had assisted the dying at the time of their death; he had lifted the spirit of the widow and was righteous and just.
Such a clear message: “My anointing is on those who work in the trenches. They will experience power to complete this work.”
God still anoints those who are hungry to love the lost, and help the less fortunate.

Prayer

“Lord, bring forth rivers of oil from Your Rock, and pour them upon me so I can go forth and minister in Your power. I want to work in power for You. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Love of a Father

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!

1John 3:1

Sixty-five year old, Dick Hoyt crossed the finish line a fraction of a second behind his son. The satisfaction in his eyes was due to the smile on Rick’s face.

Father and son have competed in more than twenty-four Boston Marathons, two hundred twelve Triathlons, fifteen of them being the ‘Iron Man Triathlon’ in Hawaii, have skied in cross-country events, and gone mountain climbing.

When you add all the miles jogged, swum, biked, and skied, this accomplishment is noteworthy. But what makes it extraordinary is that every mile is completed with Dick pushing Rick in a wheelchair, towing him in a dingy, and carrying him on the handlebars of his bike. You see, Rick is a quadriplegic.

This amazing love story began when one of Rick’s classmates was paralyzed in an accident, and the school organized a charity run for him. As Rick watched the race he pecked out on his computer, “Dad, I want to do that!”

Dick, a self-proclaimed porker, couldn’t run a mile, let alone five! But the smile on his son’s face was a great motivator. After their first race, Rick typed, “Dad, when we were running, it felt like I wasn't disabled anymore!”

So each weekend the duo is engaged in some form of competition; a father loving on his son with all his heart, a son reveling in his father’s great love.

†

As a father I can say I have loved my children with a special love, spending precious time with them, building strong bonds of love.

Today’s story is a lesson in lavishing. Dick exemplified the Father, loving extravagantly, giving generously of himself, holding nothing in reserve so his son could experience life to its fullest.

It is this same love that compels our Heavenly Father to call us sons and daughters, heirs to the Kingdom of Christ. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son”, so all His other children have the right to call Him Father.

Prayer

“Thank You, Father, for a love I don’t quite comprehend, but so desperately need. Thank You for sending Jesus to make a way for me to be called Your child. Amen.” 

It’s Just Not Fair!

I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you.
Isaiah 48:17

“It’s just not fair! It’s not a school night. It’s only eight o’clock; it’s too early for bedtime!” Jeffrey argued.
“I know it doesn’t seem fair, buddy, but it’s your bedtime,” his father said.
“But, Dad!” Jeffrey whined. “I can’t sleep with you guys out there laughing and having fun! Please, Daddy? I am eight, you know,” came his pitiful plea.
“Sorry, buddy. The answer is no. Now, climb in bed, and we’ll say our prayers.”
Three minutes after Dad left the room, Jeffrey had his door cracked just enough to listen. I can’t believe they’re torturing me like this! he thought. The temptation to eavesdrop was more than he could handle. Deciding to risk his father’s wrath, he snuck out the door and down the hallway. As he peeked around the corner, he was spotted by one of his mom’s friends. She smiled at him and winked. Oh no! I’m gonna get it now! he thought, sprinting for his room as quietly as he could. He silently closed the door, jumped into bed, and pulled the covers up over his head, pretending to be asleep. “It’s just not fair!” he muttered, hoping that strange woman wouldn’t tell on him.

†

The prospect of missing something that holds the promise of fun and excitement can be overwhelming. Like Jeffrey’s father, God gave His children sensible instruction. But Israel was stubborn and did not pay attention.
Sometimes God’s instructions make no sense to us. In His infinite wisdom, God knows what’s best for us. He hopes we will listen and obey even though we may not completely understand. As in Isaiah’s forty-eighth chapter, God tries to spare us suffering. But we, like the Israelites, sometimes stomp our feet and complain when things don’t suit us. We pout and rebel, defiantly proclaiming, “It’s just not fair!”
As we mature, we discover that our parents were protecting us from ourselves. God wants to do the same. But here’s the catch: it requires faith, faith that what He told Isaiah is true.

Prayer

“Forgive my petulant attitude, Lord. Help me learn to trust You more. Teach me to lean on You instead of always pulling on Your hand. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Where Do Goldfish Go?

In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples.
Isaiah 11:10

It was a somber occasion. Goldie the goldfish was being laid to rest in the backyard beneath the big maple tree. Six-year-old Lynn and ten-year-old Pete had tears in their eyes as Daddy shoveled dirt over the little box they’d helped him construct. “Will we see Goldie when we get to heaven, Mommy?” came Lynn’s wonder-filled question.
Death is like that, Dad thought as he finished the burial. It brings out those difficult-to-answer questions.
Mom thought for a moment and then said, “Well, honey, the Bible says when we die, if we love Jesus, we will live with Him forever. I don’t know if Goldie will be there when we get there, but it won’t be so important since you’ll be with your best friend, Jesus.”
Daddy added, “The Bible also says that there will be animals in heaven and that little children will lead them. So since other animals will be in heaven, maybe Goldie will be there too. We’ll just have to wait and see.”
Satisfied with these answers, the kids prayed that they would get to see Goldie when they got to heaven and then somberly went off to play.

†

Scripture is explicit in its revelation of animals in heaven. The eleventh chapter of Isaiah leaves no doubt as to their presence. It does not, however, tell us whether our pets will be there. But just as the mother in today’s story revealed to her children, our priorities will change the moment we are in the King’s presence. We will no longer grieve the loss of our pets, nor will our hearts ache with that emptiness created by their passing. We will stand in awe of the Son of God and experience unparalleled joy under His banner of love.
To a young child, the hope of seeing their pet is enough. As we mature in Christ, the hope of seeing Him fills any void the death of an earthly pet might leave.

Prayer

“Death seems so permanent, Lord. Please be close and comfort us while we wait to be with You in our permanent home. And if Goldie is there, please tell her we said hello! Amen.”

You Can’t Take Them Back

Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Proverbs 12:18

“Get out of my house! Now!” Logan shouted at his sister, pointing toward the door. The muscles in his neck bulged with the fierceness of his attitude; his face was contorted in rage. In one single moment, Logan had lost control of his actions, and his tongue had become a weapon. Emotion overrode intelligence and restraint. He regretted his words the moment he heard them out loud, but he couldn’t take them back now—his pride wouldn’t let him. Doggone her anyway! he thought. I didn’t ask for her opinion!
Stunned beyond understanding, Sarah turned and ran from the house; the wound was immediate. Jumping in her car, she slammed the door, started the car, ripped the shifter into reverse, and backed out of the driveway. In her confused state, Sarah backed right into the path of a dump truck carrying a load of gravel to a nearby construction site. Rushing out the door, Logan saw events unfolding; he was too late to help. He watched in horror as the power of his words affected his sister’s life. Sarah would spend three weeks hospitalized in traction, and would need to learn to walk again.

†

One of our greatest struggles is controlling our tongue. James wrote a whole chapter about it. Solomon speaks to the recklessness of our words, the lack of consideration we give to how our speech affects others. Logan would have given anything to take back the venomous arrows he lodged in Sarah’s heart. But once they’re out, they can’t be recovered.
None of us is exempt in this matter.
We know how much it hurts to be wounded by someone’s speech, so why is that so hard to remember when we find ourselves in moments of critical decision? Preparation and the lack of it. It’s a wise man that thinks ahead. He understands the consequences of his words and acts accordingly. Kind words bring healing and favor. Harsh words pierce and destroy. Once past our lips, we can’t take them back.

Prayer

“Help me bring favor in times of crisis, Lord. And forgive me for the times my tongue wounds. Teach me to think ahead. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

What Will Your Harvest Look Like?

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.
Galatians 6:10

Before she lifted dinner, Nancy had one last errand to run. “I’m taking a plate to Dorothy. I’ll be right back; then we’ll eat!” she hollered from the kitchen and headed out the back door, across the yard to her next-door neighbor’s.
As she came through the door, Dorothy said, “Oh, hon, you didn’t have to do this. But it sure does smell wonderful! You’re just too good to me.” Tears filled her eyes.
Nancy loved to give of herself to her seventy-something neighbor. “I just figured you might be tired after doing yard work all day, and I didn’t want you to have to spend time making yourself something for dinner, too. Besides, it blesses me to see the smile on your face!” she teased as she brought the food to the table, placing it in front of Dorothy. “I’ll come back later to get the plate, so don’t fuss about it,” she spoke over her shoulder as she headed back out the door.

†

God could meet every need for everyone, so why doesn’t He?
Because He has chosen to exhort us to do good to all people. In essence, He’s saying, “If something is going to get done, I’d like you to do it.”
Servanthood 101 is a lesson in crop production. This classroom gives us ample opportunities to learn how to sow seed from the heart. When Paul advised the church in Galatia to do good, he was challenging them to sow good seed. He challenged them to prove a point: what goes around comes around. It’s a spiritual harvest law. As we move the focus off our self-centered nature to one of compassion, off of our me-first attitude to a this-matters-more-than-my-personal-comfort mind-set, we see this law in action.
God challenges us to do random acts of kindness on His behalf, not looking for something in return, but to bring His blessing with the understanding that He rewards His servants.

Prayer

“Help me look for and see opportunities to serve others, Lord. Stretch me for Your purposes and teach me to have a servant’s heart. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Me-ism

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourself.
Philippians 2:3

Gretchen slowed her vehicle as she approached the construction area. With no flagmen to direct traffic, and even though the road crew was working in the opposite lane, vehicle after vehicle continued to ignore Gretchen’s legal right-of-way by pulling out from behind the crew and into her lane, hurrying toward their destination.
As car after car repeatedly disregarded traffic laws and safety, Gretchen fought for composure, resisting the urge to lay on her horn and shake her fist out the window in protest.
Finally, after some twenty additional vehicles played follow-the-leader, one vehicle stopped, deferring to Gretchen’s lane of traffic. As she eased forward, Gretchen observed the driver giving her a shoulder-shrug, with hands raised in the I have no idea why people do what they do? gesture. It was his way of letting her know he’d noticed her predicament and that he appreciated the way she’d handled the long line of impatient drivers.
Someone had been watching! Gretchen smiled, returned the gesture, and was extremely thankful she’d fought the urge to retaliate. “What kind of witness would it have been if I had gone off on one of them, Lord? Thank You for helping me act as one of Your children should,” she prayed silently.

†

Many, if not all of us, have experienced me-ism. It’s blindingly apparent in other people; but how often do we barge ahead, failing to consider others and whether what we are doing will have an adverse affect on them?
Paul urged the Philippians to act like Christ instead of the world. For in doing so they would provide a good witness and find opportunity to share the gospel. How many times have we regretted our actions after the fact, wishing we had it all to do over again? Someone is always watching. And when we bull our way through life because of a sense of entitlement, the selfishness of me-ism speaks loud and clear. On the other hand, if we imitate Christ, we, and those who need to see Him, won’t rob God of the opportunity to be seen.

Prayer

“Help me put my selfish ambition and me-ism to death, Lord. Teach me to consider others ahead of myself. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Into Satan’s Domain

On those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. For unto us a child is born.
Isaiah 9:2, 6

There had been no end to the frustration and struggles Rena had endured. It seemed like the deck had been stacked against her from birth. Born two months premature to a drug-addicted mother who couldn't support her, she’d been in and out of foster care until the age of twelve and had finally found a permanent home with the Donaldsons.
Rena, who suffered with subdued mental acuity, had struggled in the school’s special needs class. She couldn't seem to make the pieces of the puzzle fit. The Donaldsons prayed that before the next school year something would break in their daughter’s favor.
When next year arrived, Mom led Rena into her new classroom. They were greeted by bright colors and life-size animated figures pasted on every wall in the room. On the chalkboard was a pastel rainbow arching over the words, “Welcome to Miss Jenny’s Classroom!” Rena pulled Mom down to her level and exclaimed, “I like this place, Mommy! Can we stay awhile?”
Miss Jenny greeted them with a bright smile, knelt down, and said, “ I've been so excited and just couldn't wait to meet you, Rena. Welcome to my classroom! We’re going to have so much fun!”

†

In one brief moment, Rena’s struggles changed. Instead of it being Rena against the world, it became Miss Jenny and Rena in a partnership that could see possibilities for the future. Miss Jenny loved to turn on the lights for those who struggled to understand. She was gifted in discerning a child’s needs and developing a curriculum to meet those needs.
When Jesus entered Satan’s domain over seven hundred years after Isaiah’s prophecy, it was a light-switch event. In one brief moment, Israel had a new teacher; One Who cared about their welfare and future.
Jesus showed them a brighter path that led out of the darkness into His marvelous light. You can hear Him say, “ I've been so excited and just couldn't wait to meet you!”

Prayer

“Father of the bright and morning Star, we give thanks for Your precious gift of light and love. Teach us to faithfully follow Jesus’ path through this dark world. Amen.”

Make it Your Own

Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?

Acts 19:15

Rafe had always felt he had a meaningful relationship with God….until two hours ago. Now he realized he’d only been giving Him lip service. He’d been challenged over a statement he’d made. When the man challenged the validity of his statement, he had adamantly argued his point, saying, “I know what I heard the pastor say!” referring to the evangelist he’d seen on TV. 

But the challenger had shown him in Scripture that his belief was wrong.

Faced with the truth, Rafe had feebly responded, “Well, I must have misunderstood what the pastor said.”  

The whole way home he’d felt the quiet conviction of the LORD. He realized with startling clarity that his relationship was a compilation of snippets and sound bites, borrowed from people he’d watched, the books he’d read, and the CDs he’d listened to. He’d never taken the time to search out what God’s word actually had to say…he’d simply taken other’s teachings as Gospel.  

Broken and ashamed, he lay weeping in repentance for his cavalier attitude toward the Author of the Book he professed to know so well.

†

Relying on others for our faith can foster false and erroneous beliefs with disastrous consequences.  

In today’s text, one demon-possessed man beat seven men until they were naked and bloody. Simply quoting something we believe to be part of God’s word not only doesn’t make it effective, it is dangerous!

We need to search the Word of God until it becomes OURS! Many times in the past I caught myself quoting a verse of scripture, saying, ‘So and So said…’ or after reading something I would say, ‘So and So wrote…’ not realizing there was no power in the verse through third-party connections.

It’s not wrong to watch, listen to, or read spiritual material. Spiritual wisdom and understanding can be gained by doing these things. But if we fail to make it our own, relying on others to study for us and not digging into scripture ourselves, we will walk this earth powerless…and the enemy will have his way with us from time to time.

Prayer

“Give me a passion for Your Word, LORD. Create in me a hunger to know for myself what You have to say about every issue in my life. Amen.”

Blue Collar Apostles

We worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.
1 Thessalonians 2:9

Roger had just come off a ten-hour shift at the plant he’d worked at for the past twenty-seven years. His friend Marcus was quizzing him on how he managed to work full-time and pastor a church of some ninety parishioners.
Roger continued, “Paul did it. This is God’s call, not mine. When Paul, Silas, and Timothy were in Thessalonica, Paul realized that he and the disciples’ presence could be a burden on the resources of this young church. Rather than strain them and cause reason for grumbling, they paid their own way, attempting to teach the Thessalonians that hard work was something to be embraced, not shunned, as they were in the habit of doing; they would rather employ slaves than do manual labor themselves.” Then Roger added, “In the same way, Grace Community can’t afford to pay me a full-time salary right now.”
Marcus persisted. “So how long are you willing to do this? I mean, do you actually think this is God’s plan for your life—working yourself weary?”
Roger smiled and replied, “God’s desire is that our little church would flourish and grow doing the work of the kingdom. Until they can afford a full-time salary, I intend to ease the burden as much as possible.”

†

In his first Epistle to the Thessalonians, Paul reminded them of how hard they had worked among them in order to have an opportunity to preach the gospel. He wasn’t complaining about the work; he was teaching them that God calls us to be laborers with Christ.
Many, today, believe that God will provide everything they need on the basis of belief in Jesus Christ. And although God loves His children, He wants them to understand that hard work is synonymous to kingdom work. We cannot say, “God will take care of me” and do nothing to assist Him.

Prayer

“Teach us to embrace co-laboring with You, Jesus. May we never allow ourselves to become a burden that would cause grumbling. Move us from our perspective of entitlement to a right-minded understanding that we must labor in Your employ. Amen.”

Crossing The Line

Fathers, do not exasperate your children...

Ephesians 6:4

Glenn had taken one look at the way Jeff was dressed and decided the best way to discourage his son from wearing pants four sizes too small was to make an example of him. So…focusing the video camera, Glenn said, “Turn around…slowly...keep your hands up.” Reluctantly, Jeff did as his father instructed. “It looks like you done stole a midget’s pants! I bet you can’t even pull ’em up!”

Angry for being subjected to such treatment, Jeff hoped this impromptu documentary would soon end. But his nightmare was only beginning, because Glenn, figuring he had enough footage, uploaded the clip to the internet. He turned to Jeff, “You think lettin’ your underwear hang out looks cool? Let’s see what people on YouTube think.”

In less than twenty-four hours the video went viral, getting over 280,000 views. In the ‘Comments’ section people wrote things like, Kudos to you, pops! and Now that’s novel parenting! I’da never thought of that! and Awesome, dad!

After reading another dozen such comments, Glenn figured he’d made his point and deleted the link.

†

At first look this appears to be a harmless form of apparel censorship; even a little amusing. But, was Glenn’s attempt at unconventional discipline appropriate? Was what he did acceptable parenting in a world where senseless people say spanking is child abuse?

Answer this question: Would you strip your son to the waist, pull his pants halfway to his knees, and put him on display in the town square, open to everyone’s ridicule, a target for their lewd remarks? Not only would he be open to the ridicule of every sane passerby, he’d be free game for those who are just plain mean, and the mentally ill. You could be creating a potentially dangerous situation.

Had Glenn stopped at just shooting the video, and then compelled Jeff to change clothes, it might have been effective without crossing the line. But airing family issues on YouTube goes against today’s text, because we should never, for any reason, humiliate our children.  

If you don’t approve of the clothes your kids are wearing, sit them down and discuss the matter; set guidelines, and enforce them.

Prayer

“Lord, help me remain sensitive to the possible consequences of how I discipline my children. Help me to be a loving parent. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

This is from the next volume: More Snapshots: Continuing the Spiritual Journey, due out by the end of the year...

Blessings Without Measure

She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed."

Matthew 9:21

As the young mother turned back to the shopping cart she found her son rifling through everything. “Shane, sit back and leave things alone!” she admonished.

He heeded her warning for all of ten seconds. That’s when the four-year-old spotted one of his most favorite things in the whole world: ice pops! Seeing his mom’s attention directed toward the shelves, Shane stretched out his hand, reaching as far as he could. The prize remained just out of reach. Undaunted, he reached down and unbuckled the little seat belt holding him in place, and nimbly climbed toward the ice pops. Just as he grabbed the unfrozen popsicles Mom turned to place something else in the cart.

“Shane Kaufman…!” She began…then stopped herself, staring in wonder at the tenacity of her son. He would not be put off. He would achieve his goal, nothing would deter him.

As much as she knew that blatant disobedience could cause problems in the future if not given the proper direction, she couldn't help but be impressed by his persistence. The look of triumph in his eyes made her smile.

†

In today’s text Jesus, full of the Spirit without measure, was walking along the streets of Capernaum, pushing a virtual shopping cart full of blessings. Among a great throng crowding against Jesus, this woman with the issue of blood was the only one who understood that there was power available to heal her. So, in faith, she reached in and took what she needed, appropriating her healing through unwavering faith! Jesus even commended her for such tenacity, “Daughter, your faith has healed you.”

Oh that we would have the simple faith of a child to believe that every blessing we will ever need is at our disposal through the power of the Holy Spirit.

True faith believes and appropriates what it needs, knowing it is available. And the only way we will know is to draw near enough to God to hear His heartbeat.

Prayer

“I want to know You for Who You are, Abba Father. Not that I might have power for myself, but so that I might know You, and Your Power. Amen.”

Made for Laughter

A cheerful heart is good medicine.
Proverbs 17:22

Nancy and Craig constantly looked for little ways to make each other laugh and enrich their marriage. This particular morning found Nancy headed out the door for the day as Craig was finishing breakfast. They never parted company without a what-if kiss: What if something terrible happens and we do not see each other again? So, getting up from the table, Craig joined his beloved at their favorite spot: the doorway between the dining room and kitchen. Nancy stood on the step above the threshold, Craig on the kitchen floor, several inches below her. This offset their height difference, making for the perfect fit.
As they embraced and kissed, a mischievous thought came unbidden to Craig. Not given time to brush his teeth prior to Nancy’s heading out the door, he realized, with increasing amusement, here was a moment given by God! Leaning back while still holding her around the waist, he looked into Nancy’s eyes and said, “I guess this makes me a cereal kisser!” Spontaneous laughter with a twinkle in their eyes gave testimony to the love they shared. These precious moments given of God deepened their relationship with each other and God.

†

We were created with an expressive nature, and it testifies to what’s going on in our heart.
Many of us suffer from heavily burdened hearts, rarely displaying any sign of joy or happiness. God Himself desires to bring complete joy to our lives that we might recognize His nature and learn to emulate it.
It is my belief that we bring a smile to our Creator’s face when we laugh with abandon. One of my favorite paintings is of a head-thrown-back, all-teeth-showing, belly-laughing Jesus.
We weren’t created to walk around with a downcast countenance, showing everyone how miserable we are. We will find what we look for; joy is optional. Yes, there will be sorrow, but if we look for a light heart, we just might find one filled with laughter.

Prayer

“Help us look to create those seemingly insignificant moments in life, Lord. Teach us to laugh as You intended, to love each other passionately with fervor and great joy! In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

In the Fury of the Storm

I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm.
Psalm 55:8

Clarence watched in horror as the funnel cloud dropped from the sky. He turned and shouted to his wife, “Michelle, grab Christy and Tim and head for the basement. Now!” He took one more look before turning to join his family.
The twister was bouncing from point to point as if it were choosing specific geographical locations. Every time it touched down, debris was lifted skyward. The closer it came, the darker the funnel got. Clarence stood, paralyzed by the awesome display of destruction.
“Clarence? What are you doing?” came Michelle’s anxious cry.
Snapped to his senses, Clarence descended through the basement door, pulling it closed as the updraft threatened to rip it from his grasp. Descending the stairs two at time, he forced a measure of calm to his voice and said, “Over to the corner. Take this blanket and cover up under the workbench.” As they huddled beneath the meager protection, Clarence began reciting the Twenty-third Psalm. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me … ” As the family joined him, the storm raged above. They could feel the house shake and hear windows breaking. Through it all, they would remember the peace that surrounded them in the fury of the storm.

†

God’s promise to us is a place of shelter away from the storms of life. He does not promise we won’t experience trouble, only that in the midst of the storms we can find peace and comfort beyond what the world has to offer.
Our response in times of crisis determines whether we will continue to be tormented or receive strength from above. Just as Clarence was mesmerized by the power of the tornado, we too can be held in a dangerous place longer than we intend. And like Michelle’s cry, David urges us to take shelter from the storm. He’s telling us to hurry and not delay in fleeing from our pursuers.

Prayer

“Storms come upon me so quickly, Lord. Help me see the clouds before the tempest is upon me. Rescue me from my enemies, for I am in need of Your strength. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

We Can Expect a Complete Recovery

I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.
Psalm 57:1

A sickening snap could be heard above the noise in the crowded gymnasium. Amy grabbed her leg, severe pain evident on her face. The conspicuous bulge below her right knee gave mute testimony that the leg was badly broken. While teammates and coach watched from a few feet away, team trainers tended to the injured girl. Mom and Dad had been court-side and now hurried to Amy’s side. EMTs took her vitals, stabilized the leg in a temporary air splint, and loaded Amy into a waiting ambulance to the crowd’s empathetic applause.
Amy was transported to the local hospital where surgery was required to mend the break. After removing tiny bone splinters, they reset the break by realigning the jagged edges and placing surgical screws through the bone. They finished by placing the leg in a cast. There had been no complications; the break would heal just fine. Amy would be on crutches for eight weeks and then placed in a walking cast. They could expect a complete recovery.

†

We would never leave a broken leg unattended. Yet there are those who, for one reason or another, fail or refuse to admit to their broken spirit. It is God’s desire that we bring Him our brokenness.
When spiritual breakage occurs, it leaves jagged edges that rub together, causing scar tissue to form. Left unattended, our spirits cannot heal correctly. We live in turmoil, never finding the joy or peace promised us and possibly never realizing our full spiritual potential.
We live from our hearts; they must be safeguarded! When David was hurting, he took refuge in the shadow of God’s wing, allowing the threat to pass.
In the same way Amy’s broken bone was realigned, our broken spirit must also be brought into a position that will promote healing. We must seek refuge in Jesus Christ. The wound must be stabilized and given time to heal so it can bear weight again. Jesus says if we come to Him, we can expect a complete recovery.

Prayer

“I don’t admit to this kind of pain easily, Lord. I don’t want people to know I am wounded. Help me put aside my foolish pride and begin the healing. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”