Saddle the Donkey

Abraham got up and saddled his donkey.

Genesis 22:3

Carl and Ruth were tired. Working tirelessly for twenty-six years, they had served on almost every board and committee in the church. Someone had told them early in their Christian walk, “God wants us to be spiritually exhausted at the end of each day!” They had taken it to heart, and many times they had sacrificed personal activities in an effort to be where they thought God expected them to be; they just wanted to please God.

Then one fall Sunday morning, on a rare vacation, they attended worship at a quaint little church in a picturesque little town in the South. The pastor brought a message regarding purposeful service. He explained that our reason for being is to serve the Lord.

Amen, thought Carl and Ruth.

Then he said something they’d never heard before. “When God calls us to service, it is to be His call, on His terms, for His purpose. We are not to serve for the sake of service. When God called Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, it was God’s call. Abraham did not awaken one morning and tell Sarah, ‘I think we should sacrifice Isaac. What do you think, Sarah?’ He would never have set out to do that on his own!” The pastor went on to say, “We set out to please God by doing things in His name. Many times those things are not what He would have us do.”

†

It is our reasonable sacrifice to serve God. He created us for service. But what we do is as important as why we do it.

How many times have we found ourselves serving God only to be completely frustrated and at wits’ end? If we were to ask, we might hear God say, “I appreciate your hard work, but that’s not what I wanted you to do.” Many times we begin an act of service, not instigated by God, asking Him to bless it, never connecting our frustration to the fact He wants us doing something else.

Our self-assigned sacrifice may look good, but we really should make sure God wants us to saddle the donkey.

Prayer

“Lord, please show me what You want me doing right now. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Conscious Effort

Think on these things.

Philippians 4:9

Another using dream. Gibb wondered what was going on and what it meant. He couldn’t get the images out of his head.

He’d been free from addiction for over five years and hadn’t had to deal with the seduction or obsession since then. Yet this dream felt so real; he’d been searching through medicine cabinets in houses that weren’t his. When he awoke, his relief was profound. But he was disturbed that he’d not only found pills during his search, he’d taken some! Knowing it would end in him hurting those he loved and terrorizing people he didn’t know, he couldn’t figure out why, after all these years, the dreams had surfaced again.

Searching for a reason, Gibb realized he’d slacked off in his morning devotions recently. He’d begun to hurry through the readings. He hadn’t been as consistent in his prayer time either. Getting out of bed, Gibb decided to change his devotional routine to see if the dreams stopped.

After brushing his teeth, he headed for the living room. Bending his heart to God, Gibb simply asked, “What are the dreams about, Lord?” He received an astonishingly immediate response. “Your life of leisure, Gibson. You have taken things for granted lately, and the enemy has responded. When I told you to think on these things, I meant all the time.” Grateful that God had redirected him, and knowing this would end the dreams, Gibb bowed his head in thanksgiving.

†

We can become neglectful of our relationship with God and end up losing the closeness where we find refuge. It may not necessarily be a fatal mistake, but left unchecked, it can cause needless suffering. Prolonged distancing will cause us to cut ourselves off from our shield of protection. When that happens, we must return to the basics, recommitting our hearts in an effort to draw closer to God. Having gotten sloppy in our approach, it will usually require conscious effort to reestablish our relationship without establishing just a familiar routine.

Paul advised the Philippians to think about wholesome things in order to keep their minds stayed on God. We would do well to do the same and not allow ourselves to become slipshod in our spiritual discipline. Conscious effort will be rewarded with closeness in relationship.

Prayer

“I’m prone to becoming lazy, Lord. Help me recommit my heart and mind to Your care. Draw me ever closer. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Divine Q-tips

And after the fire came a gentle whisper.

1 Kings 19:12

“Did you hear what I said?” Kelly broke in on his wife’s reverie.

“What? Did you say something?” Her startled response told Kelly that Denise hadn’t heard a word he’d said.

Always the jokester, Kelly decided to have a little fun at his wife’s expense. “You never listen to me!” he wailed in mock frustration, wiping a pretend tear from his eye. “You need to clean your ears out with Q-tips!” He forced himself to keep from laughing, “You don’t give me the time of day anymore! I slave my life away for you and what do I get in return? I’ll tell you what: nothing! A great big nothing!” He couldn’t hold back the laughter anymore.

“You big doofus!” she said, swinging and missing her prankster husband. “I’m sooooo sorry!” She almost touched the floor in a benevolent, servant-style bow, as if humbling herself before her master. “What, pray tell, can this lowly waif do for his highness?” The words dripped with sarcasm.

“Okay, okay,” he surrendered. “We could do this all night. But I seriously thought you were listening when I asked if you minded that I go golfing with the guys tonight? I mean, I know you don’t care. I was just wondering if you had any plans.”

“Nope, nothing that would require the king to stay home guarding his kingdom.” She teased. “Have fun, my dear. Hey, would you call Bruce and have him ask Patty to come over while you’re gone, please?”

†

We complain about never hearing from God when, in reality, we haven’t been tuned in to the sound of His voice.

We desire some ground-shaking form of correspondence, something more tangible than a whisper and easier to recognize. God, in His sovereignty, would rather we learn how to listen for the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit.

In truth, there are times when we can’t hear God because we don’t want to, so we pretend He is mute. The truth is we are deaf, and what our spiritual ears need a good cleaning with divine Q-tips.

Have you ever dug too deep with a Q-tip? It hurts! The more attentive we are, the less digging is required.

Prayer

“Clean my spiritual ears, Lord, so I can hear You when You speak. Amen.”

 Let Me Help

So after ten years … Sarai his wife took … Hagar and gave her to her husband to be his wife.

Genesis 16:3

“I don’t care what you say,” Grace challenged. “I think we need to give Stephanie the money.” Ralph, on the other hand, felt their daughter needed to learn from her carefree lifestyle and rampant spending.

Protection mode kicked in. “I can’t believe you could possibly want her to have to suffer through the long process of reestablishing her credit!” she said diplomatically.

But Ralph felt he needed to stand firm on this issue. “Grace,” he began, reining in his frustration in light of her opposition. “What would we be telling her by bailing her out? The truth is,” he blurted, “that’s just what she believes we’re going to do!” Sorry he’d momentarily lost the battle over his emotions, he regrouped, saying, “Honey, she’s been way too cavalier about doing as she pleases. I believe she needs to resolve this issue on her own.” Attempting to lessen Grace’s heartache, he pulled her toward him and held her close as he said, “We had to learn on our own too, you know. No one could tell us what to do at that age either.”

“Oh, Ralph.” She sighed in resignation. “She’s my little girl. I just want to help.”

“Me too,” he said with an affectionate squeeze.

†

It can be tremendously difficult to stand aside and allow our children to suffer when any interference on our part would be wrong.

Restraint at a time when someone wants our intervention requires wisdom. Only by seeking God’s guidance will we make the right choice.

We might actually be doing our children a disservice by taking action. We may be helping them out of the very situation God intended to use to bring them to an understanding of their improprieties.

When we get in God’s way, as Abraham did when he fathered Ishmael, we are taking matters into our own hands instead of allowing God to work things out in His way. Abraham’s disobedience has caused two nations to remain in constant contention. We can hurt our children if we’re not careful.

Prayer

“Teach me the difference between hindering and helping, Lord. Show me when to stay out of other people’s business. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 We Are the Prodigal

Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.

Luke 15:18

Shell had kept her distance from the zealots in her family for years. Her thought? If you want to believe in Jesus, fine. Just leave me alone. Then something had happened that she couldn’t explain in rational, humanly possible terms. It had God’s handprint all over it; she could no longer deny the truth. “There is a God, and He cares!”

With this newfound realization came understanding: she’d been selfishly doing as she pleased because she wasn’t going to live by anyone’s rules but her own! Now she understood how blatantly she had snubbed her nose at God! Oh, what have I done in my arrogant belligerence, she thought. Not knowing what to do, she called her mom. Through tears of joy, her mother assured her that God could and would forgive her of everything if she just asked Him.

In stark contrast to how she had lived her life, she knelt beside the couch and said through tears, “I know now that I’m a sinner, Lord Jesus. And you have no reason to forgive me, but everyone who knows You says I can ask and You’ll forgive every wrong thing I’ve done. So I’m asking now that You forgive me and come into my heart and make me clean, show me how to live a life worthy of Your sacrifice. Amen.” Mother and daughter alternated between laughter and tears, both thanking God for His infinite mercy and grace.

†

Each of us has sinned against God and need His forgiveness. Many of us have made a lifestyle of it, thinking we could escape judgment. Others want salvation but are under the impression they don’t deserve another chance. Neither statement is valid.

We cannot unashamedly reject Jesus Christ and expect mercy, nor are we beyond the depth of His grace if we turn and invite Him into our heart.

As in the story of the prodigal, we have been separated from God by sin. And as the prodigal’s father, God is waiting to run to us the moment we turn and head in His direction.

Prayer

“Lord, sometimes I do foolish things and get lost. Lead me home to where You are. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Assembly Line Christianity

Be imitators of God.

Ephesians 5:1

Jessie’s passion meter was stuck on “I’m here” and didn’t seem to register any higher. It wasn’t so much that he didn’t want a deeper relationship with Jesus; he just wasn’t sure how to go about getting it. And six months of attending this church hadn’t helped. It was “Come as you are, we’ll accept you. Do as we tell you and everything will be wonderful!” Yet, he didn’t seem to know any more about Jesus than he had when he’d first started here.

“Everything here seems tailored to mold people into some kind of automaton,” he’d shared with another newbie, as they were referred to in the membership class. “Doesn’t this feel kinda plastic to you?” he suddenly asked.

“I guess I never thought about it,” was the man’s casual reply. “What do you mean?” he countered.

“Well,” Jessie began, “I feel like we’re all on this big assembly line headed for the final production stage with nothing but superficial understanding. It’s like a cookie-cutter mentality. As if they’re just trying to turn out Christians, and there’s no understanding required to graduate.” Feeling the need to qualify his comment, Jessie added, “Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying they don’t love Jesus, but it’s like there’s nothing required for membership. We’re not required to share what we believe or why. Do you know what I’m getting at?” Jessie asked.

†

Whose likeness are we trying to imitate? Are we looking for the truth, or are we playing follow the leader, regardless of where the leader is headed?

Many of today’s churches offer a brand of religion that falls short of God’s example in Jesus Christ. And people blindly follow, thinking, “If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, it must be a duck,” never understanding they are ignorantly tempting hell.

It absolutely matters what we believe and why because simply saying the name of Jesus will not gain us entrance into heaven. If we do not confess Jesus as Lord and are not required to ask forgiveness through repentance where there is no turning from sin (understanding we will not do this perfectly), then we are deceived. We will be held accountable, regardless of our professed ignorance.

Prayer

“Lead me on the one true path of salvation, Lord. Show me the way. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Beetle Boots and Levis

If anyone says to you, “Look, here is the Christ … do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear.”

Matthew 24:23

It was two days and counting; summer vacation was over. “You never get us the original!” Elliott said with the frustration of a fifteen-year-old. “Everybody else in school will have genuine Levis and Beetle Boots. Not some lame knockoffs like these!”

“Honey,” his mother began, “we can’t afford the originals. Those boots and jeans are three times as much as these, and they don’t fit our budget. This is the best we can do.” Had Elliott been thinking about anything but himself, he would have been able to see the hurt in his mother’s eyes. But he wasn’t, and he didn’t. All he could see were cheap imitations that would elicit ridicule from his peers at school. They’d take one look at these off-brand jeans and low-heeled boots with the zipper on the side instead of in the back, and they’d say what they always said, “Whutsamatter, Bennett? Mommy still dressing you?” Kids could be cruel, and these lessons seemed unfair.

With that thought in his head, Elliott headed for his room. I’ve gotta figure a way to get what I want or everyone’ll think I’m uncool! And with that, he slammed his bedroom door on the world.

†

There is a knockoff for everything; someone has counterfeited the original and is looking to profit from it. And in most cases it’s not life threatening.

However, there is one counterfeit that we must not buy, and regardless of the cost, we must purchase the original!

Satan has staked his claim to the throne of God and comes deceiving those who would listen to his sales pitch. His minions tell us we’re uncool and won’t be accepted unless we buy what they’re selling.

Jesus, knowing sin is tempting in the early stages because it feels good, warns us so we will be on guard, because there are always consequences. To make the wrong choice in this case will be eternally fatal.

Jesus is the original; there is no other way to salvation.

Prayer

“Lord, help me see past all the bells and whistles when Satan comes to deceive. Help me discern the lies and seek the truth. In Jesus’ Name, amen. “

 Unobservant

The disciples came to him … ”Tell us,” they said … what will be the sign of your coming?”

Matthew 24:3

Craig pulled in the driveway, thankful to be home from vacation. He was tired. The kids were asleep in the back; Marie was out cold too. He decided to unload the car before waking anyone. No sense in them being awake at 3:00 a.m.

He’d walked past the living room three times, taking each piece of luggage to the appropriate room. This time, however, on his way out the front door, he glanced into the living room and realized something wasn’t right. Strange, he thought, something’s different, but what? Oh well. He’d figure it out eventually.

Finished unloading the car, he carried each child to their bedroom, got them into pajamas, and kissed each on the forehead as he covered them up.

Returning to the car, he woke Marie and assisted her into the house. Half bleary eyed, Marie walked through the front door, took one look into the living room, and jolted wide-awake, a shock replacing her sleep-filled eyes, “We’ve been robbed!” she blurted out.

“What?” Craig said in surprise. Then it registered: the TV, DVD player, MP3 player, and Bose stereo were all gone! How could I have missed that? he thought, followed by Marie’s question, “Didn’t you notice there was no TV when you turned the light on in here?” she asked incredulously.

“I noticed something was different; I just didn’t know what,” he said sheepishly.

†

In truth, we, like Craig, are prone to miss things once in awhile. Especially in spiritual matters. Granted, to miss being robbed is a biggie, but consider this: even the disciples missed what Jesus was trying to say. So much so that He warned them to “keep watch” (verse 42), knowing they would probably let their guard down without His encouragement.

End-time signs are all around us: “Wars and rumors of wars; Nation rising against nation; famines and earthquakes … the beginning of birth pains.”

But whether Christ comes in the next ten minutes or ten thousand years, we are to watch and interpret the signs, preparing for His coming by sharing the gospel.

Prayer

“Lord, help me be sensitive to everything important that’s going on. Show me where to focus my efforts for Your kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Waiting in Fear

The wicked man flees though no one pursues …

Proverbs 28:1

Day after day he waited for the phone to ring or for the police to knock on his door. Ever since he’d found that wallet, he’d been living in a constant state of fear. He knew he should have returned it to the owner when he’d found it. But when he discovered those six one-hundred-dollar bills, something had come over him.

He’d removed the cash and thrown the wallet, credit cards, driver’s license, and all into the Potomac River. He hadn’t had a good night’s sleep since! He just knew someone was going to figure it out; then they’d come calling.

Finally, unable to deal with the constant pressure of waiting to be caught, he’d gone to the forty-seventh precinct and turned himself in, saying he wanted to repay the money he’d found, but he couldn’t remember the man’s name.

Unable to substantiate his statement due to the lack of evidence, the detective had finished taking the report and told him, “If anyone files a report about a lost wallet, and if he chooses to file charges, we’ll be in touch. Without someone pressing charges, we have no reason to hold you.”

Leaving the station, he felt worse than before. He had no idea if someone would ever claim the lost wallet or not. He’d sacrificed his clear conscience in the heat of the moment, and now he couldn’t get free from the guilt of his actions.

†

When we begin to do the wrong thing, our conscience automatically responds by alerting us. This is not right! If we fail to respond correctly, the Holy Spirit convicts our heart in an effort to bring repentance and return us to a right relationship with God.

What we do in that moment will determine whether we walk in integrity, without the constant over-the-shoulder looks, or wait in fear for the phone to ring.

Unscrupulous behavior breeds evil and fear. If left unchecked, it desensitizes our hearts, building an uncrossable chasm between us and God.

It is far better to repent and face the consequences than it is to live waiting in fear.

Prayer

“Lord, Help me resist temptation when I’m weak or unprepared. Keep my heart pure. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Egg Minister

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give.

2 Corinthians 9:7

The two-story Cape Cod blended well into the surrounding countryside. And the 6.2 acres of land it sat on was sufficient to allow the boys room to grow. Ron and Rochelle had purchased this little piece of country for the expressed purpose of raising their three boys outside the lights of the city.

Ron had built two outbuildings, a kennel for the dogs, and a workshop for himself. One day, Rochelle asked Ron to add a chicken coup to the side of the dog kennel. Standing on the porch, Rochelle smiled as she fondly remembered that day two years ago when God had called her into the ministry. Not just any ministry, mind you; He’d called her into the egg ministry. Ron had thought it a strange request but had built it nonetheless, saying, “Chickens you want, chickens you get.”

Rochelle hadn’t immediately explained her plans, mostly because she wasn’t quite sure what those plans were exactly. All she knew for sure was that God had given her a desire to own a few laying hens. It seemed a reasonable desire; they would enjoy fresh eggs, and the boys would learn about raising chickens.

As the hens began to lay, Rochelle discovered they had more eggs than they could use. With this unexpected bounty, Rochelle realized she could bless a few of the neighboring families. And so it began, a ministry that now saw Rochelle giving dozens of eggs to family and friends.

†

Such simple projects generate a tremendous impact. Giving of our lives is the most personal service we can offer. To give money is good; we are all supposed to assist in financing the kingdom of God.

But when we give something for which we have labored, it tells others we have taken time to share our lives.

Not all of us are called to move to the country and raise chickens. But we do each have the ability to step outside ourselves, seeking new and unique ways to serve. Ministry begins when God plants a desire in our heart. It’s up to us to make it grow.

Prayer

“I want to be about Your business, Lord. Show me where I might be of service. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Walking It Out

How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.

Romans 10:15

Sandra and Ginny had been friends for almost ten years. In that time, they had shared their lives. The most important thing they shared was a deep love for Jesus, and for over nine years, they had committed to deepening that relationship.

Two years into their friendship, God led them to begin prayer-walking their neighborhood, rising in the predawn hours to walk and lift their neighbors and their needs to God.

They watched in wonder as God brought neighbors into their lives with critical timing: someone facing a tremendous struggle or the loss of a family member. They were able to witness God’s love and spend time with each one in prayer. They simply followed God’s lead.

They had been prayer-walking for three years when they felt God asking them to assemble the neighborhood so He could weave their lives together. So they set to work planning the first block night Sharp Road would ever experience. They dropped off invitations to every family, asking them to bring one covered dish, lawn chairs, and an appetite. That inaugural evening had been a remarkable success!

Five years later, they still gather monthly at a home determined the prior month. Volunteers are never in short supply, and the fellowship is sweet.

Sandra and Ginny count it a privilege to be part of the movement of God that has seen seven people, to date, accept Jesus as their Savior.

†

Paul’s prayer at the beginning of chapter ten is that the Israelites might be saved. He makes the case that anyone believing on the name of Jesus will be saved. Then he sets about challenging their conviction and commitment to Christ. “And how can they believe in one of whom they have not heard?” He’s asking them to go tell others about Jesus.

Knowing Jesus is only the beginning for those who are saved. Telling others about the freedom and joy we have in Christ should be, like Paul, the desire of our heart.

Walking it out means taking each opportunity God provides to share His Son.

Prayer

“Lord, lead me to those who have never heard of You. Guide my feet to who needs to hear about You next. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Three Whys

No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 14:6

“Okay, Mr. Know-It-All,” Marvin challenged. “What makes you so sure you have the right answers? I may not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but what makes your beliefs right and mine wrong?” The heat was evident in his tone.

“Marvin,” Chris began softly. “I don’t have all the answers, and you are right sometimes. But when it comes to those three questions, there is truth, and there are lies. I believe each of us is faced with a choice: believe and follow Jesus or reject Him and spend eternity in hell.”

“Yeah, I got that!” There was no give in Marvin. “Your belief says that God is where I came from, God is why I’m here, and God wants me to know where I’m going!” Sarcasm dripped from his words. “So,” Marvin goaded, “God is the answer to everything!”

“Marvin, just because you choose not to believe in God doesn’t make Him nonexistent. The proof is all around you.” Chris had a thought. “Take gravity, for instance,” he baited. “You can say you don’t believe in it. Yet, if you were to put your belief to the test from the top of a ten-story building, your belief wouldn’t keep you from dying.”

“No one’s stupid enough to do something that ignorant when the proof is so apparent,” Marvin interjected.

“Right!” Chris said. “Seeing makes it easy to believe. But faith believes without undisputable proof,” Chris finished.

“Well, until I have proof of God’s existence, I’m not buyin’ it!” The conversation died an uncomfortable death.

†

God created us for a relationship with Him. His desire is that we choose to spend eternity with Him.

And the world hates Him for it. They can’t abide His conditions that we accept the sacrifice of His Son on Calvary’s cross as the propitiation for our sinful living, asking His forgiveness, and turning from sin.

They revile and reject God’s one-way atonement, demanding, “How can a benevolent Father make such a demand?”

And to that there’s only one answer: Jesus died to present us faultless before God.

Whether we choose to believe Him or not has no relevance to the truth.

Prayer

“Lord, use me to help others see the truth in You. Amen.”

 Enemy-Occupied Territory

The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers.

2 Corinthians 4:4

Jennifer and Karen were having the age-old discussion. “How can a loving God let bad things happen to good people?”

“In war after war, innocent men, women, and children die senseless deaths. And for what?” Karen demanded. “Are you going to tell me that it’s God’s judgment for a nation’s disobedience?!”

“Karen, no matter what I say, it probably won’t change your belief of God turning a blind eye to injustice. I understand your frustration and at one time shared your misconceptions about how God can say He loves us yet stand by and let people suffer. How do you rationalize cancer or AIDS?” The softness in Jennifer’s voice did little to diffuse Karen’s anger. When her husband died of leukemia, Karen blamed God for not answering her prayers. She’d turned away from God and hadn’t returned since Randy’s death.

“Karen, you mentioned wars and how innocent people die needless deaths. The truth is we were born into war. And we live in enemy-occupied territory. This is not the earth God created. That all changed when Adam ate the forbidden fruit. And until Jesus comes to judge the Earth, and all those in it, we will live under the enemy’s occupation.”

†

It is inconceivable—apart from faith in God’s redemptive nature—that evil reigns on Earth. Yet, Adam had a choice: say no to temptation and retain dominion or eat the fruit and usher in a season of mankind possessing knowledge we were never meant to have. When that happened, sin, in the form of illness, lustful desire, and myriad forms of idolatry entered the heart of man, and death was required so we would not live forever in our sin.

Those who believe there should be no evil among us are living under a veil of deception. The enemy manipulates the hearts of those who will listen to his sordid lies.

Bad things do happen to good and bad alike. In this world, God does not promise we will not endure hardship and loss, but that while in enemy-occupied territory, He will provide shelter.

Prayer

“Lord, we pray for the removal of the veil from the minds of those who blame You for the evil in this world. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Last Supper at Breakfast

When evening came Jesus was reclining at the table with the twelve.

Matthew 26:20

While eating breakfast, Rachel noticed the painting of The Last Supper and asked, “Do you know what that painting means, Uncle Ed?”

“No,” he responded.

His response caused her to ask, “Have you ever accepted Jesus as your Savior?”

“I don’t know how,” was his strained response.

Continuing to pursue this line of questioning, Rachel asked, “Do you know Who Jesus is?”

“No, not really,” he admitted. “Did you ever attend church?” she asked.

“No,” he began. “I can’t read, you know, and I was afraid the preacher would call on me for answers. So I stayed home … ” He trailed off; a note of shame in his voice.

Where do I start, Lord? she thought. I can’t ask him if he wants a Savior he doesn’t know.

“At the beginning,” God replied. So for an hour, Rachel related biblical events: Creation, the flood and Noah, Moses, the exodus to the promised land, concluding with Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection. When she finished, Ed said, “Come with me.” He led her to the bedroom where he brought out a book of Bible stories. It contained the very stories she’d just shared!

Taking God’s cue, Rachel asked; “Would you like to ask Jesus into your heart?” she said.

“Oh, yes, yes, yes!” he responded.

†

Ed is now with his Savior. Rachel’s sensitivity enabled her to present the invitation.

We should never assume that people know Jesus, even if they have religious material around the house. Had Rachel accepted the painting as proof of Ed’s salvation, he could have spent eternity in hell.

The truth is there are many unsuspecting people on their way to hell; many because we assume they’ve heard about Jesus, so we don’t go out of our way to ask them, “Do you know Who Jesus is?”

We may be required to give explanation of the events from Creation through the resurrection; people should understand the decision they’re making. And this may require doing some things we’re not comfortable with. In light of the alternative, we must put aside our discomfort and never assume they know the truth.

Prayer

“Make me sensitive to those who don’t know You, Lord. Help me help them to know Who You are. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Never Grow Weary

Do not become weary … for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Galatians 6:9

Charles and Lucille had been married twenty-eight years. “Lord, you promised Charles would come to You if I was diligent in prayer. I have been praying faithfully all these years. Please show me that my prayers are making a difference. Just a morsel, Lord!” she implored.

That night, Lucille had a dream. In the dream she saw a lamb. God spoke to her, “Pay attention. Look!” She looked again; the lamb had become a sheep. God said again, “Pay attention. Look!” She looked once more to see that the sheep had become dirty and was peeking around the corner, poking its head in and out. God then said, “This is Charles at the door, wanting to come in. Continue to pray!”

Two weeks later, Charles gave Lucille an unexpected gift. Lucille opened the package to find a praise and worship CD; she was elated! “Thank You, Lord!” she said, grateful for another morsel.

Lucille listened to the CD repeatedly, gaining inspiration in the knowledge God was changing Charles’s heart. One evening, she walked into the house to find Charles not only listening to the CD but also singing along! “Oh, Lord! Thank You!” she whispered.

Three weeks later, Charles began attending church with Lucille; within six weeks, Charles gave his life to Christ!

†

Lucille’s perseverance in prayer is a lesson for us all. Many, if not all of us, have unsaved family members. Though they may not respond to our direct influence, we can affect change by lifting them to the throne consistently, praying for the veil to be lifted and God’s light to penetrate the darkness.

Today’s text encourages us to not give up in our weariness. God hears our prayers and responds by drawing them unto Himself.

Twenty-eight years is a considerable amount of time to pray without evidence of an answer. Yet it pales in comparison to eternity and eternal separation from Christ. We must not grow weary; it is not hopeless.

Do you want a harvest? Persevere in prayer!

Prayer

“Lord, hear my prayer. Draw all those in my family who don’t know You to Your side. Help me to never give up on them. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Cryin’ Saints

And he who searches our hearts … intercedes for the saints.

Romans 8:27

It would be thirty years before the boy would understand what he’d witnessed that night.

It was the church’s weekly prayer meeting, and elders, spiritual leaders, and many members of the congregation, as well as the senior and associate pastors, were present in the Fireside Chapel.

The young boy didn’t want to be there. But he was the associate pastor’s son, and when Dad went to church, he went to church.

As he sat in one of the comfy chairs in the back of the chapel, he watched and listened. For over an hour they prayed. The boy was beginning to fidget. Then he heard crying from the altar; he wasn’t sure what to make of that. He’d never heard anyone cry when they prayed. And this wasn’t just normal crying either. Whoever it was, they were sobbing!

Curious, he stood on his chair to take a look. His curiosity was rewarded as he discovered it was the senior pastor.

On the way home, the boy questioned his father. “Why was Reverend Wilber cryin’, Dad?”

His father paused and then tried his best to explain how the Holy Spirit moves on the hearts of His saints when they’re in desperate prayer. “When that happens, the emotion can sometimes be overwhelming. And sometimes people even cry,” his father had said.

The young boy looked through the darkness at his father and asked in complete innocence, “So Reverend Wilber is a cryin’ saint?”

†

The Holy Spirit intercedes for His saints when they don’t know what to pray. And we are His saints.

I’ve known many who believe the term saint is reserved for those who have gone before us in death or for those whose contribution to the faith has raised them to a loftier salvation than our own. But plainly, saints are people who have separated themselves from the world and consecrated themselves to the worship and service of God.

Many of us have needed God’s urgent intervention and were at a loss for words. A “cryin’ saint” is someone given over to the Holy Spirit’s examination, asking Him to take the need before the throne of God when we can’t.

Prayer

“When I can’t pray, Lord, please take over and speak to the Father on my behalf. Amen.”

 Superficial

Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.

Proverbs 27:2

Reed had just brokered the largest deal in sports history. His client was now the Breakers’ newest running back.

Reed had landed Gerald Humphries a multimillion-dollar contract with the largest signing bonus ever demanded. Not only would his client be set for life, so would he. But aside from business, no one seemed to gravitate to Reed; his attitude alienated everyone who knew him, and those who didn’t quickly learned how big his ego was.

The press prompted Humphries, wanting to quickly get the details of the contract so they could write their stories and make deadline. One reporter asked a pointed question about his lightning speed only to have Reed interrupt and make the following statement: “Humphries is fast. But his ability isn’t unique. There are many athletes with his ability. But nobody on the planet could have closed this deal except me. I’m the reason this kid’s getting the largest signing bonus this team ever paid!” It didn’t occur to Reed that he was a distinct turnoff or that they really didn’t want to hear about his personal triumphs. It didn’t register that he was smugly touting his own achievements instead of directing questions to his client, who was standing beside him with a look of complete amazement on his face. And it never occurred to Reed how his arrogance was received until, following the press conference, Humphries fired him.

†

When we set out to exalt ourselves, we will, at the very least, be reviled and at worst, humbled by God.

Our God-given talent is to be used in helping others rise to new levels of success and service. We should never promote ourselves. Self-promotion is vain conceit.

And there is no surer way of alienating ourselves from God and the relationships He intends us to share with others. It is difficult to enjoy the company of someone who constantly exalts themselves. It reeks of narcissism.

We should instead look for opportunities to elevate others and their accomplishments, not looking for personal gain or recognition.

Prayer

“Keep me humble, Lord. Help me to seek not to elevate myself in the eyes of men and to do what is right in Your eyes. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Understanding Comfort

Comfort … with the comfort we ourselves have received.

2 Corinthians 1:4

Danny was a commercial construction contractor. His firm built low-rise structures in and around the downtown area. He and his wife, Susan, their three children, Ammie, Ben, and Chris, lived in the suburbs.

This morning, Danny was running a bit late, but that was okay because it was Saturday, and he would be the only one at the jobsite anyway. He and Susan had stayed up late to watch It’s a Wonderful Life last night, Susan giggling at George and Mary’s whirlwind romance, teasing Danny and saying, “If you treated me the way George treats Mary, we’d never have a bad day.” Susan would remember, with heart-wrenching clarity, her comment in the days to come.

As Danny jumped in his truck, Susan waved good-bye through the side door. Neither of them saw Chris playing behind his father’s truck, and in one horrifying moment, Danny put the truck in reverse and backed out of the garage, running over his five-year-old son, killing him instantly.

In the weeks that followed, they were surrounded by friends and family who tried to comfort them. But no comfort could be found. Danny couldn’t sleep; Susan blamed herself and Danny for the loss of her son.

The blame would shift from themselves to God and back over the next two years. Their faith would ultimately hold them together, and grief counseling would bring a measure of healing. But not before the enemy had his way for awhile.

†

What do we do when tragedy of this magnitude invades our lives? It seems so unfair, and the anger over a life taken long before its time runs deep. “How could a loving God allow something like this to happen?”

We say, “Bad things happen to good people.” And this is true but woefully inadequate for these situations.

The truth is bad things do happen, and sometimes they happen to us instead of somebody else. And we need the understanding comfort only God and those who have lost a child can bring. If you are bearing this grief, reach out. If you have lived through this nightmare, comfort those whose pain is still raw.

Prayer

“My life is Yours, Lord. But today that doesn’t help. Show me how to grieve this unspeakable loss. Bring healing to my broken heart. Amen.”

 With Jesus

When they saw the courage of Peter and John … they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

Acts 4:13

Dewey held up his hand, asking for silence. “I understand your doubt, folks. But”—he paused for emphasis—“if we fail to take this stand, our children and their children will pay the price of our indifference.”

“What makes you so sure they won’t rule against us anyway?” challenged one dissenter. “I, for one, am not in favor of rocking the boat. They’ll just use this as a platform to build a stronger case against us!” the man argued. He was alluding to city council’s removal of all God-related materials from public buildings and property over the last year. Tonight’s meeting had been called because council was now legislating new ordinance against open-air gatherings of a religious nature.

“Look, I hear you,” Dewey acknowledged. “But I believe you’re dead wrong. It’s that very attitude that allowed God to be removed from our schools. We did nothing to stand up for the free exercise of our religious rights the Constitution gives us. We must stand now.”

The man sat back down, red-faced and fuming.

Dewey continued, “Sitting still and hoping the enemy retreats is the equivalent of saying, ‘Go ahead, take all my rights.’”

He finished with, “Look, if we believe Jesus is Who He says He is, then it’s our responsibility to take the same action He would take if He were here.”

†

Would a stranger know we’ve been anywhere near Jesus? Or do we, instead, blend in with the world through our words and actions?

As Christians, there ought to be a visible difference, something tangible that causes others to take notice when they see us, something that causes them to ask what that difference is. The only way others will know that we have been with Jesus is by the giving over of our right to ourselves and into the control of the Holy Spirit, by dying to self so Christ can shine through.

Peter and John displayed a countenance of courage after the Holy Spirit’s presence was evident in their lives. That same Spirit wants to grow us into the likeness of Christ.

Prayer

“Help me put to death anything that would keep me from looking like You, Lord Jesus. Amen.”

 Will You?

If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?

James 2:16

Quinn had lost his job and hadn’t been able to find suitable employment in over four months. They had used Charlotte’s most recent paycheck to keep the electric and gas on, but their mortgage, as well as a signature loan, was two months delinquent. The slumping economy and Quinn’s disability had only added to their struggle. This morning found them pouring out their hearts to God, asking for divine intervention.

Around noon, Charlotte received a call from a couple in their congregation. They felt God leading them to share some food with them. “How much room do you have in your freezer?” came the question.

An hour later, the credit union called. Quinn assumed they were notifying him of collection proceedings and prayed for strength to deal with this situation. However, when he got on the line, the account manager said, “Mr. R, an anonymous provider has stopped by our office this morning and paid your mortgage accounts current. They have asked we not divulge their identity, but that we inform you so you can best use the finances you have available.” Quinn was numb with wonder as he hung up the phone. It took a full minute before he was able to relate the nature of the call to Charlotte.

†

At a time when society trusts their 401(k) or stock portfolio to provide for tomorrow, God is asking us to trust Him and not yield to the temptation to lean on ourselves for the future.

Giving God permission to reposition His money through us is not an easy thing to do. It requires faith that He truly is a debtor to no man.

Today’s text is clear; we are not to stand idly by and give lip service to situations that demand attention. Giving out of our abundance requires an act of will. Will you?

Prayer

“Lord, help me to bare the essence of Your love. Help me hang on loosely to the things You have given me. May I never see a brother in need and fail to do everything I can to meet it. In Jesus’ Name, amen.“

 What Do You See?

Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.

Isaiah 40:26

Watching the night sky, they were enjoying one of their favorite pastimes: stargazing. Tonight the whole family was there. The kids were lying in the middle of the hood of the car, Mom and Dad on the sides, all of them bundled in blankets, their heads cushioned by pillows. They were looking for meteors. Terry loved the stars. He always felt close to God when surveying the wonders of the universe. Tonight and tomorrow night, August 11 and 12, were the peak nights to observe the Purseid meteor shower.

They had driven up on Coe Hill in the wee hours of the morning, their hearts building with anticipation and excitement to witness hundreds of brilliant green and white vapor trails streaking across the sky as the little pieces of dust lit up the atmosphere!

It began around 4:00 a.m. with just a few at a time and then built to what seemed like hundreds coming in from every direction! They were privileged to see one of the most awesome displays of fireworks God had ever provided! All for the meager price of a couple hours of sleep. It was a night they would cherish and speak of often.

†

How is it that some people look at the sky and see God while others see only stars?

As Terry lay there, he was reminded of the Apollo 11 moon landing in July 1969 as Neil Armstrong spoke those immortal words: “One small step for man. One giant leap for mankind.” Many people aren’t aware of what Buzz Aldrin was doing; he was taking communion and reading Scripture, but was unable to broadcast it because of a legal battle NASA was in at the time.

The world touted man’s accomplishment; Aldrin silently proclaimed the power of God.

Prayer

“Father of the heavens, I am awed by Your mighty power. I don’t know the names of all the people in my town, yet You know my name and the name of every star. How immeasurable is Your glory! Thank You for Creation! Amen.”

 Payment on Demand

You fool. This very night your life will be demanded from you.

Luke 12:20

Luke’s credit was tanked. Unable to get the financial assistance he needed from a legitimate lending institution, Luke decided to borrow the money from a shady source. Now the note was due. But Luke didn’t have the money. He’d made the initial investment he’d borrowed the cash for; he’d even made a small profit. But Luke had gotten foolish.

Having discovered online poker, Luke began playing regularly. It’s no big deal, he told himself. I’m just having a little fun.

After success in a few online matches, Luke decided to multiply his holdings by entering a high-stakes game. So, taking his winnings, along with the balance of his borrowed investment, Luke did just that.

But things hadn’t gone his way; he’d lost it all. And now he was in trouble. The financer was demanding payment.

Nervously, he pleaded with the financer to give him more time to come up with the money, a grace period of sorts, he’d called it. The financer finally decided Luke wasn’t worth the risk and had two of his associates teach Luke a lesson. The problem was they got carried away, and Luke died two days later as a result of his injuries.

†

Today’s text reveals there is a payment coming due for each of us. Those who foolishly choose to ignore the demand will suffer for eternity.

We have the ability to ask Jesus Christ to pay the due penalty or put it off right up until the moment we die. After that, all bets are off.

Scripture says we are but a vapor, and then we are gone. We do not know the time of God’s demand on our life.

We can do as Luke did, putting off life’s most crucial decision until it’s too late, or we can turn to the One who has the ability to wipe our slate clean, leaving the balance paid in full. The choice is ours alone.

Prayer

“Lord Jesus, I want and need Your sacrifice to cover my sin. Cleanse me now with the payment that only Your blood can cover. Amen.”

 Deeply Within

I have hidden your word in my heart.

Psalm 119:11

“Okay, now repeat after me,” Ms. B instructed her Sunday school class. “You did not choose me … ”

“You did not choose me … ” the children echoed.

“But I chose you … ” Ms. B smiled as she saw the look of determination on one young boy’s face.

“But I chose you … ” He was squinting his eyes to help focus.

“And appointed you … ” It was difficult to hold her laughter as she looked from face to face.

“And appointed you … ” The volume was increasing. You could see their hearts were completely given to this memorization exercise.

“To go and bear fruit.” She almost whispered it to see their response.

“To go and bear fruit.” Giggling could be heard as they followed suit and whispered their responsive statement.

“Can anyone tell me what fruit Jesus is talking about?” Ms. B asked.

“Bananas!” one child hollered.

“Apples!” came another. Fruits of every kind were being hollered out.

Finally, Ms. B, laughing and smiling, held up her hand and called for silence. “Those are all fruits and good answers,” she said, smiling brightly. “But the fruit Jesus is talking about in this verse is about how we live our lives and how other people know we belong to Jesus because of how we act” (Galatians 5:22).

†

There are times each day that we could benefit from God’s words. They are meant to bring us strength, joy, and purpose.

Scripture memorization is essential to our spiritual well-being. Each verse we commit to memory can comfort us in times of trouble and sorrow, be used to fend off attacks in times of temptation, and enrich our walk with God, but only if they have been planted deeply within. If they are not there to begin with, we cannot recall them when we want or need to.

When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, the words He memorized as a young boy were used to counter the attacks of Satan. Jesus knew He needed His Father’s words to resist the devil. Do we need more reason than this?

Prayer

“Lord, help me begin to hide Your Word deep in my heart, so it will be there when I not only need it, but when I want to meditate on it. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 It’s the Filling That Matters

Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart.

Proverbs 26:23

Five feet nine inches tall, long auburn hair, and deep green eyes, she was stunning! Clark almost tripped as he turned to get a second look at the woman he’d just walked past. “Wow! I’d love to get to know her,” he said, nudging his buddy, Brad.

“No, you wouldn’t,” came Brad’s unexpected reply. “She’s a snob, Clark,” he said.

“Aw, you’re just jealous,” he quipped.

“Let me tell you a true story, Clark,” Brad said and proceeded. “Everywhere this woman goes, she commands attention. Everyone who sees her jockeys to meet her and to be seen with her. Yet few ever get the chance. Those who do usually regret ever wasting time trying.” Looking to see if he was making any impression, he continued. “My father was present on one occasion when a young man about her age approached her at a dinner party. He shyly asked her to have a drink with him in the restaurant bar. Dad said the woman briefly looked at him and with disdain in her voice, said, ‘It would be a tremendous waste of my time, and I would die before I would be seen with the likes of you.’ And with that, she turned her attention back to her sycophant admirers. Clark, I’m telling you, she’s as vile on the inside as she is beautiful on the outside.”

†

Created in God’s image, there are, regrettably, times we don’t resemble Him in the slightest. Our exterior may be bright and shiny, but our soul can be riddled with poison, leaching out into our surroundings, polluting everything it touches.

It isn’t enough to look the part of a Christian. We must share similarities with our Creator. And the similarities must penetrate deeper than the surface of our existence. God, unlike us, is concerned with the heart. He barely slows down to see how we look on the outside.

What people see when they meet us is important, because Who we represent can be seen in our attitude. But the shell is not as important as the filling.

Prayer

“Make me beautiful on the inside, Lord. And help me look past other’s shell to find the goodness within. Amen.”

 Hidden or Bare?

Nothing … is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare.

Hebrews 4:13

Jeremy had been dealing from the bottom of the deck, so to speak, living a life committed to Christ on the outside while entertaining a hidden secret. He loved Jesus but seemed unable to resist the temptation of gambling. He wasn’t sneaking off to the local casinos or playing online poker; Jeremy was addicted to lotto tickets. Things had gotten out of hand. He’d purchased more than three hundred dollars worth in the past month. Bills were being ignored, and his stress level had spiked.

He’d run into a few members of his congregation at the local convenience store while buying tickets, but had covered up by lying, saying he was getting them for a neighbor.

As it turned out, a recovering gambler had observed him scratching tickets in the parking lot. Sensing God’s leading, the man approached Jeremy’s car. He tapped on the window, causing Jeremy to jump as if stung; the shock and distress on his face told the man all he needed to know.

Caught and embarrassed, Jeremy’s immediate thought was, This is none of his business! But he kept it to himself. “Hey, Mark. What’s up?” he said.

“Hey Jeremy, how’s this lotto ticket thing working out for you?” Caught off guard by Mark’s candidness, Jeremy just sat in stunned silence, unable to answer. And in a moment of clarity, Jeremy realized God was giving him an opportunity for freedom. He’d sent Mark, who knew a little something about this corner of hell.

†

If we believe the evil we do will not be uncovered, we are deceived. God’s Word declares He sees everything. But the deceit-filled heart whispers, “You will not be found out or required to pay the consequences of your indiscretion.” We buy the lie, living in blissful ignorance until it all comes crashing down around us.

There is a depravity in hidden sin. It can convince and pervert the purest of hearts, successfully convincing us that God isn’t really watching.

But His Word says otherwise. Anything hidden will be spoken of from the rooftops (Luke 12:3).

Prayer

“You alone know everything about my life, Lord. Cleanse my heart and keep me from the lies of hidden sin. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Instruments of Grace

Each one … faithfully administering God’s grace.

1 Peter 4:10

At seventeen, Kellen was a repeat offender.

Marshal was his newest probation officer. “You tired of the juvy system yet? ‘Cause if you keep shopliftin’, you’re gonna find out what it’s like to be tried as an adult. And they’ll introduce you to our wonderful prison system.”

Silence.

“I don’t get you, Kellen.” That wasn’t exactly true, but he wasn’t ready to tell his story. “You’re a good-looking kid, star athlete, good grades, then bang! You throw it all away. What for? A few trinkets?”

“Like you care,” came his smug reply.

Marshal spoke softly. “What makes you think I don’t?”

“No one else ever did. What makes you different?” Kellen shot back.

“Look, Kellen, you may find it hard to believe, but I do care. I’ve a better understanding of your life than you might think.” What Kellen didn’t know was that Marshal had done time for petty theft as a teen. Then someone had taken an interest in his future. They had cared enough to reach out; it had changed Marshal’s life.

He continued, “I’ve been where you are, Kellen. And someone cared enough to get involved. Things were screwed up on the inside of me. My stealing was a cry for help. And because they understood that, things changed. It can happen for you too if you want it to. How about it? Can you try to trust me?”

“I don’t know why I do it,” Kellen finally responded honestly.

“Now that, I believe,” said Marshal.

†

Moral and ethical patterns are set at an early age. What we learn or don’t learn in our youth shapes our values. Under ideal circumstances, we grow and mature and make adjustments to those values until they are tempered with wisdom and integrity. But most kids don’t grow up in an ideal world.

Today’s society throws pitches to our children they are not ready to hit. And their immaturity doesn’t stop them from swinging. Mistakes are made; consequences arise.

But the mistakes need not be permanent or the consequences life-ending. We can reach out in grace and compassion with an offer to lead those who would otherwise remain lost, into the saving grace of God.

Prayer

“Make me an instrument of your love and grace, Lord. Use me to affect change. Amen.”

Broken

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit …

Psalm 51:17

The Sunday service had begun as it did each week with the worship team leading the congregation in praise and worship. Nothing unusual there, the people’s praises inviting God into the atmosphere.

Then God showed up, and it was personal.

Conrad loved singing and praising God. Suddenly, in the midst of worship, he felt an enveloping presence, a fullness he’d never experienced before. From deep inside his being he heard a voice speak.

Jerking his head up and looking around to see who was watching, Conrad was momentarily stunned. Seeing no one looking his way, he closed his eyes once more. As he did, he realized the voice had come from inside. And the moment that realization hit him, he heard it again. “Broken. You must come broken.”

To say Conrad was startled was a gross understatement! God had never spoken to him like this! Regaining his thoughts, he whispered, “What do You mean, broken?”

“You are holding on to burdens that are not yours. But unless you are broken, I cannot take them.” The Holy Spirit continued, “I want all of you. Even the deeply hidden things, Conrad. You must be broken to be made whole.”

Conrad hesitated only a moment. “Take my heart, Lord. Make me whole.”

†

Completely broken in spirit, yielded to God at the purest level, requires our desires to take a back seat to God’s will. Scary, but it’s actually where we are the safest.

Satan says otherwise. He whispers, “It’s too great a risk; you will be humiliated.”

Satan is a liar. Complete submission to God can be intimidating; voluntary vulnerability is not natural. But it is where pride yields to God’s Sovereignty in such a way that He can heal the deepest, darkest wounds of our heart.

God wants to take our broken pieces and fit them together in such a way as to make us whole. He wants to set us free of the bondage of secret sin. To risk our heart this way is to leave ourselves bare before the Lord. But the benefits are worth any possible risk.

Our Savior is gentle and loving. He does not humiliate His children. He’s asking us today, “Will you come broken in spirit?”

Prayer

“I sacrifice my broken spirit, Lord. Make me whole. Amen.”

Dumber than Dogs

As a dog returns to vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.

Proverbs 26:11

Jeff considered himself a daredevil. His friends considered him foolish.

Jeff, and the rough crowd he hung with, thought it was a true act of courage to go swerving; a game in which two friends, upon recognizing the other’s vehicle approaching in their direction, swerved into the other’s lane, passing each other on the wrong side of the road. It didn’t matter to them whether it was a city street, highway, or country road.

Jeff and his boys had done this on many occasions. As a matter of fact, they had done it so many times that it had become boring. So they decided to change the rules. Instead of swerving when you saw a friend, you just picked a target vehicle coming your way and swerved into its lane, forcing the unsuspecting driver to slam on his brakes or yield his right of way by pulling off the road. The boys considered it exciting and kept a running total of their swerves.

Jeff’s wiser friends tried to persuade him to stop his foolish ways, but Jeff just laughed it off, saying, “It makes me feel alive!”

Two days later, the headline in the local paper read: Teen Escapes Death in Auto Accident!

†

A dog that eats his vomit doesn’t know any better. We, on the other hand, should. God instilled in each of us a certain amount of common sense that He expects us to use. To know the consequences ahead of time and choose to complete the act is nothing short of rebellion and is a direct snub to God. To knowingly endanger ourselves or others is not some fun game; it is only foolishness.

We are responsible for our actions. We should not tempt God nor continue doing foolish things for the sake of an adrenaline rush while denying the possibility of great disaster. If we continue in our folly, we are dumber than dogs and will certainly end up paying a higher price than we ever thought possible.

Prayer

“Loving Father, I am capable of doing foolish things. Please help me realize the error in my thought process before someone pays a price he was never meant to pay. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Sticks and Stones

Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the Lord, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat.

1 Samuel 1:7

Laura wiped at her tears as she walked up the drive; she didn’t want Dick to see she’d been crying. “I hate mean people!” she vehemently cursed under her breath, not noticing or caring as the bus faded into the distance.

Thoughts from today’s trip whirled through her head. Why does this always happen? Why are people so mean? And why can’t people just leave me alone? She would never get used to the stares and the names. I never hurt any of them, and still they call me hurtful names, staring at me as if I’m some kind of monster! The tears began anew.

At seventeen, Laura had been in an explosion involving a gas grill. It had left her with burns over thirty percent of her body. The right side of her face had required extensive cosmetic surgery, leaving disfigurement that could not be hidden. She was still receiving monthly treatments to stretch ongoing skin grafts.

Laura hated visits to the city. Because no matter how much she prayed, she always saw that look and heard those comments.

Why couldn’t people see past the scars? “Why couldn’t You have just let me die in that explosion?” she challenged God for the hundredth time.

†

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.” Most of us have used this comeback as a form of protection for lack of a better defense. The idiom is a lie; name-calling hurts.

And for good reason. It undermines our personal confidence while telling us we are defective and unacceptable; it wounds a heart longing to be loved.

Hannah was so affected by name-calling that she wept until she couldn’t eat! But God heard Hannah’s cry. And he hears ours too. Like Hannah, we too might endure ridicule we do not deserve, but, in the end, our sorrow will turn to joy. There is no guarantee that our situation will soon change, as there is no shortage of mean-spirited people. But God hears our cry. And in time He will take away our pain.

Prayer

“Lord, help me bring healing instead of pain. Guard my tongue and words. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Connect the Dots

Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.

Psalm 119:105

“Come look at my zebra, Mom!” Will called.

“Let me see,” Sheena said. “That’s great, honey!” she added, impressed with the precision with which he had completed the connect-the-dots drawing.

“Thanks!” said the nine-year-old, the pride of accomplishment evident in his demeanor. “An’ look at this! The stripes look like four scrunched letter Zs!” he remarked, tracing each letter to emphasize his point.

What a vivid imagination, Sheena thought, wondering if she would have noticed it herself. “You know, Will, your Uncle Ralph loved connect the dots. And now he’s an architectural engineer.” Realizing Will needed a simple definition to make the connection from one to the other, she added, “An engineer uses scientific knowledge and principles of how things work to construct buildings, bridges, and other structures.”

“I could draw a bridge, Mom!” Will said enthusiastically and began immediately to draw a basic, one-dimensional blueprint with ruler and pencil. Five minutes later, he held aloft the drafting job he had carefully completed. In truth, it bore a striking resemblance to the intended subject matter, quite impressive for a nine-year-old. Who knew? Perhaps her son might just follow in her brother’s footsteps.

†

Connect-the-dot drawings do not provide entertainment alone. They teach the basics in perceptual thinking. As a child, I eagerly guided my pencil from one dot to the next, connecting each corresponding number to the next, revealing the secret of the numbers. These simple drawings taught me the concept of visualization and gave me the ability to understand how critical a sequence of events and following directions are.

God’s Word is similar in nature. His written account of history provides a starting point for our spiritual education and leads us through the steps of maturation from infancy, where we are taught His precepts, to maturity in Christ and how we are to conduct ourselves in His service. Each lesson has its own built-in navigation system; as we complete one lesson in life, God’s light illuminates our path to the next.

Prayer

“Lord, thank You for Your version of connect the dots. Lead me as I trace my way through each lesson. Help me visualize the path You have laid out for me. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Alive and Free

If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

John 8:36

Peter wasn’t sure if he was reaching these men. Only two of them had given their lives to Christ in the time since he’d begun this Thursday night Bible study at a prison just outside his community. He wasn’t too impressed with his conversion versus attendance ratio. Right now he was waiting for the prisoners to show up for tonight’s meeting following nine o’clock count.

Peter knew firsthand how these men felt, as he’d done a stretch of time five years before. Released and delivered, Peter wanted to give other men the opportunity he’d been given. He warmly remembered the day when that big brute of a man, Ben Johnson, had looked him in the eye and said, “I’m not dead or incarcerated, and I could be either. The reason I’m not is Jesus Christ! Because of Him I’m alive and free!” The smile on his face seemed to fit. There was an evident sincerity in his eyes that said, “This freedom thing is awesome!”

Snapping back to the moment, Peter watched as the men began filing in and taking their seats. When they were settled, he welcomed them and asked them to join him in prayer. “Lord, each of these men has a story, and many should be dead. I thank You that instead they’re alive. Help them see what they can have in You. Show them how being one of Your children can conquer any problem they face and how Your love can set them free. Amen.”

†

Prisons come in all forms, and death of the soul can take place long before our physical expiration. Jesus wants to set us free.

Walking through life with burdens we were never meant to carry erects walls of confinement. Any lifestyle that runs in opposition to God’s will keeps us from experiencing the fullness of life, the joy and freedom we receive in the Holy Spirit, and leaves us in jeopardy of losing our eternal life. As long as you still breathe, there’s a chance to experience these things.

Ben said, “Because of Him I’m alive and free!” The antithesis is dead and incarcerated.

Prayer

“Lord, set me free from this prison I’m in. Release the chains of bondage and set me free! Amen.”