From The Outside

October 23

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

Romans 12:9

Stan and Jennifer had been married forty-eight years, today. In the span of almost five decades resided the memories of events that could have ended what was now a wonderful and endearing romance.

Many times Jennifer would have been justified in leaving. As a matter of fact, many of her closest friends, and even some of her family, had suggested she do just that.

But Jen, as Stan was fond of calling her, never considered it an option. She’d meant and intended to keep the vows she’d taken at the wedding altar.

Stan, honest about his lack of commitment in the early years, gave her credit for “hanging in there when it didn’t make a lot of sense.” He readily admitted to his reckless and wild ways. “Jen taught me a lot about love and forgiveness. Truth is…” he paused, reflection showing on his face, “I’da left me a long time ago, but Jen…she could see somethin’ I couldn’t.” Here, he chocked up, “She’s as much the reason as God that I’m standin’ here today. Had she left I’m not sure I would have cared enough to change.”

Watching them, as they lovingly held hands, it was easy to see what Jennifer saw was worth fighting for. Her commitment had given her vision, vision with perspective and hope.

†

In The Shack, William Paul Young writes, grace rarely makes sense for those looking in from the outside.

It’s easy for those on the outside to judge and ridicule, even going so far as to encourage separation and divorce because they wouldn’t tolerate such glaring and unjust behavior!

With a godly perspective we, like Jen, can see something worth fighting for.

Grace is unmerited favor…given to someone who does not deserve it…given when we rarely feel like giving it. We must, as Paul exhorts, hate the evil part, giving it to God, and cling to what is good!

Grace and commitment are hard work.

God set us an example of grace and commitment. His Name is Jesus.

“Prayer”

Thank You for Jesus, Father. Help me to always extend grace instead of withholding it, and help me remain committed when it would be easier to cut and run. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Taking Safety Measures

October 22

Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men…

Proverbs 2:12

These would be the most unique wind chimes the craftsman had ever constructed. He had decided to make teardrop clappers to give them character; it would also make the copper tubes resonate a higher quality of sound than was typical.   

Positioning the block of hardwood in the lathe, he snugged the handle one last time and rotated the wood by hand. It spun true so he turned the machine on. With the wood spinning at 8,000 rpm, he took a roughing chisel and began rounding off the edges.

Realizing he wasn’t wearing his face shield, the craftsman shut off the lathe and walked to the tool rack to get it. The shield was not in its place. His search of the basement was unsuccessful. Not wanting to wait, he decided to proceed without it. 

Snugging the block once more he turned the machine back on. Suddenly, the three pound block of wood became a projectile. It was hurled from the spinning lathe, striking him squarely in the mouth. The force of the blow split his lip to his nose, while severing three teeth at the jaw line. 

Cosmetic surgery would be required to repair the badly damaged lip, and the dental work would take three months to complete, requiring extractions and bone grafts to rebuild the jaw prior to replacing the missing teeth with bridges. 

†

Many of us foolishly tell ourselves that accidents only happen to other people, and ask God “Why me?” when calamity knocks on our door. The truth is bad things happen to all of us. While optimism is a good thing, denial will eventually cause us pain.

Although there is no guarantee, had the craftsman taken time to locate and use the face shield, serious injury might have been avoided.   

In this same way spiritual injuries can occur because we fail to take measures that could prevent them. Asking for additional help is not an admittance of weakness. It is a sign of wisdom. 

God wants to provide us with the needed protection but it’s up to us to ask for and use it in our lives.

Prayer

“Lord, I don’t always make wise choices. Please give me the wisdom to turn to You for help prior to the calamities of life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Burden of Friendship

October 21

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

Galatians 6:2

Now in their eighties, Jane and Dorothy had been best friends since early childhood. During that time both had faced challenges. As close friends, they had shared each other’s burdens through the storms of life.

Recently diagnosed with liver failure as a result of an aggressive case of diabetes that had already left her blind, Dorothy was in need of Jane’s assistance once again. The inability to keep food down had taken its toll on her already fragile body. The overwhelming nausea and increasing weakness only exacerbated the situation. Today was an especially rough day.

“Oh, Jane…” Dorothy wept. “I don’t think I can take this any more...”

As true friends do, Jane attempted to encourage Dorothy, “I know, Hon, just hang in there. We’ll get through this.”

Weary of it all, Dorothy said, “Do you think I’m going to die, Jane?”

Jane adamantly asked, “Do you want to?!”

The straight-forward question elicited a revelation…Dorothy wasn’t ready to see Jesus face to face just yet. “No…!” she responded emphatically.

“Then fight for life until the Lord takes you home!” Jane urged her friend.

†

Close relationships are rare because true friendships venture to places acquaintances know nothing about. It’s been said that true friendship begins when you are willing to share your secret joys and intimacies as well as your obvious sorrows. Lifelong friendships are a gift from God.

The burden of friendship is a matter of will because to love selflessly, places equal importance on a friend’s needs while we ourselves are facing hardship. True friendship is not inherent, otherwise God, through Paul in today's text, would have no need to instruct us.

As today’s text illustrates, carrying each other’s burdens is our Christian responsibility. It blesses God when we place a premium on the needs of others. Amazingly, when we carry each other’s burdens we find that we ourselves are the recipient of God’s blessings. This is the nature of reciprocity; give and it will be given unto you (Luke 6:38).

Prayer

“Father, help me to be mindful of those around me who need my help. Give me discernment so I can minister Your love where it is needed. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 A Season of Harvest

October 20

The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.

Matthew 9:37

Ben paused to listen as the October winds rustled the corn stalks, thinking, I love this time of year!

His tooth-revealing smile, hidden behind a camouflage mask, testified to the depth of fulfillment he was experiencing. The explorer inside was being unleashed! The explosion of color! Clear, crisp air, and such fiery sunsets! It’s hard to imagine anything more beautiful than this river valley!

Ben always felt closer to God when he ventured into the woods. Here he could see God’s handiwork. He could almost hear God pronounce, “You were meant to have dominion over this. Take good care of it; this is practice for your future home.” He was moved by the variety of wildlife and brilliant foliage.

Ben had been a bowhunter for over thirty years. In the sphere of three decades he’d spent thousands of hours in the woods; here he was aware of a godly connection he rarely sensed anywhere else.

Ben considered himself a good steward of nature. He hunted because he enjoyed it, yet he also knew that maintaining the animal population was necessary because of the limited carrying capacity of the surrounding countryside. Even more treasured than being entrusted with this responsibility was the sense of God’s looming presence as he sat silently, watching this wonder-filled world within a world unfold before him.

†

Consider this parallel to the seasons of our lives: winter...God cleanses us through understanding; spring…He brings renewal; summer…God propagates and grows the planted seed; fall...our mature fruit is revealed for the purpose of sharing!

There is significance in each. But fall is when the sickle is put to the crop.

As we look about, we see those who have not yet named the Name of Jesus. They may be in the fall of their lives, not because of age, but because their time to decide is running out.

God says to each of us, “Take time out of your schedule to experience the Spirit of this season. Then go to the harvest fields!”

Prayer

“Cleanse my life, Lord, renew a right spirit in me, propagate the seeds You have planted, and mature the fruit in my life that I might be prepared for the harvest. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

 Being Prepared

October 19

I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.

Isaiah 46:17

Jo had grown up on a farm. She toiled alongside her brothers in the fields, picking up rocks or bailing hay. Returning to the house in late afternoon she helped mom bake bread, cookies, and cupcakes. The Shipley house was full of love.

But one thing the Shipley's didn’t have was indoor conveniences. The outhouse was twenty-six steps out the back door. This wasn’t something Jo would come to appreciate until later in life.

Every day she pitched in to help around the farm to get things to market. To Jo it was just her way of life, even if physically demanding. But they had been happy days; swimming in the fishing hole on a hot summer day after chores were done, or ice-skating on the pond between the house and the hayfield when the ice was thick enough.

Never as a child could she have foreseen how God would use these experiences to win souls for His Kingdom.

A missionary/English teacher, Jo now lived in some of the most underdeveloped places in the world. Her labor-filled childhood, along with the family’s lack of indoor plumbing had prepared her for the conditions she ministered and taught in. Because of her hard working, simple lifestyle Jo was able to identify, and as she shared her childhood homelife she found herself widely accepted.

†

The preparation Jo received at home on the farm made all the difference in her ability to relate and understand. She was grateful for having learned to live a simple life. Because of that she felt a closer bond, found herself able to share God's love easier, and as a result, led many people to the Lord.

God knows what He’s doing with us as well, although many times we whine about the task at hand because we fail to see the bigger picture. Yet everything we do today will prepare us for the work of tomorrow. Today’s text tells us that if we allow Him, God will order our steps. If we permit Him to prepare us we can then reach out to others with kinship and understanding.

Prayer

“Lord, teach me what I need to know so that I might serve You well in this life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 This Isn’t Right!

October 18

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.

1Thessalonians 4:13

Melodee watched as the two grandfathers carried the tiny casket to the graveside. One though consumed her, Babies aren’t supposed to die! This isn’t right…!

Nothing about Hope’s short life had been right. She wasn’t meant to be born three months premature; her tiny little heart wasn’t supposed to be on the right side of her underdeveloped chest; and she surely wasn’t supposed to live for seven months only to be taken away!

Melodee was lost in thought for most of the eulogy. But then a change in pastor’s voice inflection drew her back to the moment. “Hope has preceded us in death. But she is not here,” he proclaimed. “This little body was only temporary housing. And although it’s difficult, we rejoice in her physical death, because today,” the pastor roared, startling everyone, “Hope is dancing with Jesus!” he shouted, pumping his fist in a victorious gesture. And uncharacteristically, the people joined the celebration!

Melodee anguished, I know what he’s saying is the truth, Lord. But right now that’s not much comfort! Not for me…not for Roger…especially not for Seth and Shirley! This isn’t right!

God’s response was soft, and full of love, “Hope is home, Melodee. Her spiritual body is perfect! You will approve. And the pastor is correct. She is rejoicing with My Son even as we speak!”

†

On any given day we hear the news of parents who have lost a child to premature and sudden death. Upon hearing the news, many people send a quick prayer Heaven-ward, letting their momentary sadness be known. Yet, until death knocks on our door with such tragic reality, we cannot and will not understand how ‘un-right’ it is.

The premature physical death of an infant, no matter how you try to spin it, isn’t right. It was never meant to happen, and only the hope of eternal life in Jesus Christ can make it sufferable.

Prayer

“Father of hope, extend the touch of Your Holy Spirit to those who have experienced this grief and heartache first hand. Hold them close and help them heal. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Fathomless

October 17

Now this is eternal life; that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.

John 17:3

Given the assignment of researching celestial bodies for her ‘Science in Religion’ class, Connie decided to browse NASA’s website. Scrolling through the photo gallery, she clicked on Hubble Telescope’s ‘Ultra Deep Field’ image. As the picture appeared on her computer screen, she stared in amazement.

Contemplating the fact that this photo contained only a minute percentage of the entire universe, the vastness of it all had a profound effect on her. It’s hard to fathom the God Who created all this!

As she began counting galaxies she was struck with a deeper, more profound truth, He can create all this, number each star in trillions of galaxies, and yet He knows me intimately; even the number of hairs on my head! A tear trickled down her cheek unhindered. Who am I, Lord?

Immediately, something her mom used to say came to mind, “He’s a big God, Honey, but He’s quite fond of you ya know! He sent Jesus to prove it!”

I finally get it, Mom.

†

Displaying more than 10,000 galaxies, the Ultra Deep Field Observation required 400 earth orbits to complete. In order to capture the incredible image, Hubble’s Wide-Field Advanced Camera for Surveys snapped two frames per orbit, for a total of 800 exposures.

Considering the width of sky reflected in the UDFO is as narrow as a pencil in comparison to the whole sky, it leaves 12.7 million times more area of the universe un-photographed; the implications are astonishing. They are also remarkably significant, because men are not without conscience. Even those who profess to be atheistic know in their soul that they deny the truth. Why else would they rail against Someone they professed non-existent?

Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” We cannot look on such magnificence and deny our Creator.

Prayer

“Lord, how beautiful and magnificent the heavens are. And yet knowing You consider me Your greatest creation, I am humbled. Thank You for such fathomless love. Amen.”

 God Created

October 16

Let us make man in our image…and let him rule…over all the earth…

Genesis 1:26

“Dad? How come they don’t like us talkin’ ’bout God in school…’specially in science class?” Bobby asked, genuinely bewildered.

The subject elicited strong feelings in Jack, How do I explain to my eight year old son that men think too highly of themselves and don’t like being told what to do?

He decided to try a more indirect route, “Well, Bobby, schools have what is called a curriculum…” Jack cut himself off, realizing he was about to give his son a world-view response. He sighed, “The truth is, Buddy, there are some people who don’t believe in God because His existence makes them uncomfortable.” Bobby’s nose scrunched as Jack continued, “There are a lot of people who don’t accept that God created the universe and everything in it because they can’t explain how He did it. The inability to explain creation scares them, so some people feel a need to come up with their own version of how it all began.”

Bobby’s face reflected the revelation he was having, “Is that what my teacher calls the ‘Big Bang’ and ‘Revolution’?!”

Jack grinned, “Evolution, Bobby, and you’re exactly right. The ‘Big Bang’ is Science’s version of how the universe materialized, evolution is their belief in how mankind came into existence, and both are why they don’t like anyone talking about God.”

†

The theory of Evolution combined with the ‘Big Bang’ is one of the world’s leading substitutes for God. It wraps their rejection of a Creator up in a nice little bow, alleging everything suddenly came from nothing in a tremendous, exponential cosmic explosion; and from that, over billions of years, the universe and humanity evolved.

But God, not chance, is responsible for creation: Isaiah 48:13 says, “My own hand laid the foundations of the earth, and my right hand spread out the heavens…”

God, in today’s text, created Adam ‘of age’, capable of immediately ruling over the earth. Think about that…and have faith in a God Who spread out the heavens with His left hand behind His back.

Prayer

“Almighty God, Creator of everything, I accept by faith that You created the heavens, the earth, and me. Give me the wisdom and courage to testify to Your creative truths. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Danger of Drifting

October 15

We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.

Hebrews 2:1

Larry and his son, Danny, were spending the weekend Walleye fishing on Lake Erie. Danny’s 29 ft. ‘Shamrock 270 Open’ would handle 6-8 ft. waves, allowing them to fish when everyone else had to head back to the marina.

Fifty minutes out of Port Clinton, Larry got a hit. The fish was strong…taking line like the reel had no drag. “Slow us down a little Danny,” Larry suggested, not wanting to add stress on the line. As Danny throttled down Larry began reeling. The fight was on!

While Larry battled the fish Danny decided to cast off the other side of the boat, looking for his own bite. Neither gave any thought to allowing the boat to drift, they’d done it many times to land a fish.

Twenty-five adrenaline-filled minutes latter, Danny netted his dad’s twenty-nine inch, seventeen pound, trophy, “Niiiiice!”

In the habit of marking their catches for future reference, Larry pulled up their position on his GPS. “Crap!” His one word exclamation alerted Danny that something was wrong. Turing the instrument so Danny could see the screen, Larry said, “We’ve drifted into Canada.” The line of demarcation was clearly south of their position. “We’ll have to take a picture and release her right here.”

“I suppose,” Danny said, disappointed that they would have to throw the magnificent fish back because neither of them had obtained a Canadian fishing license.

†

Like the boat, we too can drift into unintended territory if we fail to pay attention. Without an anchor to hold us securely, we will find ourselves dealing with unpleasant consequences.

Biblical wisdom encourages us to give our full attention to the things that matter most, not just float through life, drifting along like an unanchored boat.

A cavalier approach to life and the gospel will cause us to reap unintended consequences, and we may never fulfill our purpose without constantly seeking God’s direction for our life.

God offers us the chance to become anchored to Jesus, and then pay careful attention to what we hear and do so we do not drift away.

Prayer

“Lord, help me remain rightly focused on Jesus, trusting that He is the Anchor that will hold me where I need to be. Amen.”

 Knowing The Shepherd Makes All the Difference

October 14

The LORD is my shepherd…

Psalm 23:1

The story goes that there was a famous actor whose incredible speaking voice commanded attention and held listeners in awe. Besides his acting career, he was much sought-after to record commercials, movie trailers, and the like.

On one occasion at a large party he entertained the crowd by reciting famous sonnets and poetry. During a pause he was approached by a man dressed more like a peasant than one who should be attending such festivities.

“I wonder if I could impose upon you to recite the 23^rd Psalm?” he humbly asked.

Something the actor discerned in the man caused him to respond, “On the condition that you also recite it.”

The man agreed and the actor took the stage once again. His inflection was flawless as he recited the familiar psalm, his resonant voice built excitement throughout the room, and he finished to a standing ovation. After a moment he raised his hand to quiet the crowd as the older man took the stage. The crowd looked on in disdain; what could this unkempt character have to offer? Unphased by their cold reception, the man stood confidently and, in a worn-out, raspy voice, interpreted the 23^rd Psalm. When he finished there was no clapping, no standing ovation…only weeping throughout the room.

Asked what the difference had been between the two recitals, the actor replied, “I know the 23^rd Psalm, but he knows the Shepherd.”

†

We can have extensive information, data, and facts about something and not ‘know’ a thing about it. Without understanding, we have no idea how to interpret the information we have, or put it to use. Throughout scripture God invites us to gain wisdom, which is the ability to understand and use the knowledge we posses; because knowledge, in and of itself, is useless until put into context.

As we’ve seen, knowing the 23^rd Psalm does not equate to knowing The Shepherd. The difference is not only life-changing, but eternal, and knowing the Shepherd makes all the difference in navigating our daily lives.

If you do not know Him, I invite you to come today, and experience the goodness, mercy, and love of the Shepherd.

Prayer

“Father God, I thank You for always guiding and protecting me as I walk this earth. Lead me in the path You’ve set before me this day. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Legacy of Lies

October 13

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.

Matthew 10:28

Standing in the receiving line at the funeral home, Lori’s family was coming to grips with her suicide. As heartrending as it was unexpected, the void left by her decision brought more questions than answers.

Believing she had been an utter disappointment as well as a burden, Lori had become a casualty of spiritual warfare. At fifty-four, she had fought a valiant fight, warring against the demons of addiction. It was a battle that had lasted most of her adult life.

In a perpetual state of mind that lent itself to chaos, feelings of failure and inadequacy fueled her guilt and remorse, telling her she would always be a disappointment to people, especially those who loved her most. So Lori made a decision to end the incessant cycle of failure, believing her physical absence would bring less pain in the long run, and Satan succeeded in preventing another child of God from fulfilling her earthly purpose.

†

Suicide brings an un-spoken legacy of lies that condemn the person to spiritual death. But Scripture says nothing that would lead me to believe that Lori, or anyone else who has given their heart to Christ prior to their death, lost her salvation because of her actions.

Suicide reveals a perceived hopelessness where the victim believes they are beyond help…even God’s. It is a state of mind that is driven to self-impose judgment to atone for their inadequacy. We cannot comprehend the emotional fragility in their final days of life.

In God’s eyes, salvation is based on one act alone…our response to Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:14 says that Jesus brought salvation ‘forever’ to those who have accepted Him as Savior; not until we commit some contrived irreconcilable sin.

I find enough mercy and grace throughout scripture to offer this hope: Though there will be unanswerable questions as a result of suicide, we can take solace in the knowledge that we will see them in Heaven as long as we have accepted Jesus into our own heart.

Prayer

“Lord, be with those who have felt the pain of losing someone to suicide. Speak Your truth to them, and hold them while they grieve. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

 The OODA Loop

October 12

Therefore, prepare your minds for action…

1Peter 1:13

With the brakes failing, Austin jumped from the Gator. With one hand he tried to keep the vehicle from running over the embankment, with the other he reached for one of three children in the bed of the recreational vehicle.

Austin’s Uncle Jeff saw what was happening and immediately took action. Running to catch the vehicle, he grabbed the tailgate and planted his feet to slow its downhill momentum. But in spite of their efforts the Gator slipped over the edge, plummeting eight feet into the shallow creek below.

Now wedged between the vehicle and the creek bank, Jeff hung on to keep it from flipping over. When the Gator came to rest, Jeff lifted the two remaining children to safety. They were shaken but uninjured. Austin was coping with the effects of shock and adrenaline but, he too, was unharmed. Jeff had cuts and bruises on both legs, and pulled muscles in one shoulder.

Ultimately, their quick action had spared the children serious injury…or worse.

†

It took less than ten seconds for this event to unfold. In that time only Austin and Jeff were able to respond. Military experts call the phenomenon, ‘OODA loop’: Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act.

Our OODA loop is affected by previous experience. If we have been exposed to similar events in the past, regardless of how long ago, it shortens our OODA loop. Jeff had accidentally driven the family car over that very hill at the age of twelve. So he observed, oriented, made his decision, and acted quickly because of a shorter OODA loop.

We each have a spiritual OODA loop as well, and the enemy does his best to exploit it. Responding appropriately, in a timely manner, has everything to do with our past experiences. If we have no spiritual history our spiritual brakes will fail, and we will find ourselves plunging over the edge. 

But we can avoid, or at least minimize the damage by doing as Peter suggests in today’s text. We can prepare our minds ahead of time, and shorten our spiritual OODA loop. The choice is ours. Prepare now, or pay later.

Prayer

“Lord, help me to prepare for any eventuality so I can respond instantly, with the correct action, when difficult circumstances arise. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 No Equal, No Opposite

October 11

Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord…you alone are God.

Psalm 86:8, 10

Jenna was searching for a way to help eleven year old Niles understand the concept of physics, “Your textbook says that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.” She decided to use an illustration to help explain, “Do you remember when you tried to move that big rock in the back yard by yourself?” He nodded, she continued, “No matter how hard you tried you couldn’t budge it.”

“Yah, so?” He wasn’t sure of her reasoning but remembered wrestling with that rock.

“Dad showed you how to use a big stick to move it, right? The stick provided the power you lacked.”

As understanding dawned Niles exclaimed, “Yah! Dad called it a lever!”

“That’s right!” Another illustration came to mind, “You really like the space shuttle, right? Well…in a similar way, it needs a lever to break free of the earth’s gravity to reach outer space. Rocket fuel is its lever.”

Niles’ animation told Jenna that she’d succeeded, “I get it now! There’s always somethin’ stronger than what you need to move if you can figure out what it is!”

“That’s right,” she said, thankful for the breakthrough. “Just remember the term, ‘equal and opposite.’”

†

Newton’s third law of physics says there are an equal and an opposite for every action. Spiritual laws work the same way. For instance, the opposite of light is darkness. The opposite of good is evil. The opposite of saved is lost.

But what is the opposite of God? Most people ardently respond, ‘Satan!’ And to that end we spend our days fending off an enemy we regard as God’s equal. But that is not true.

Ezekiel 28:13 tells us Satan is a created being; “Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared.” Verse 14 reveals that Satan’s equivalent, his peer, is the arch angel, Michael; “You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you.” Created by God, Satan is in no way His counterpart.

God has no equal; no opposite. And hopefully this gives new meaning to 1John 4:4, “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

Prayer

“You, O Lord, alone are God. Amen.”

Awkward Moments

October 10

“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 

Luke 6:41

When Keith noticed the large piece of plastic lying in the office parking lot he’d decided to leave it lay and see how long it took before the responsible party decided to clean up after themselves. 

That had been almost a month ago, and still it lay wedged against one of the bumper blocks in the parking space. Faded from exposure to sunlight, the refuse had become a constant irritant. The fact that no one had bothered to do anything about the litter became a point of contention. There was no way he was going to pick it up…and it appeared nobody else was either.   

In a moment of frustration he accosted the responsible party, “You park in the same place every morning. You notice that piece of plastic wedged in the bumper block?”

The man’s response served to frustrate him even more, “Yeah. Thought about picking it up but it’s filthy…don’t wanna get that crap on my clothes.” 

The grievance was out before wisdom could stop it, “It’s your trash!”

The man slowly turned to look at Keith. “No…it’s not. Take a closer look.”

Stunned, Keith walked over, bent down and picked up the weathered plastic, and was instantly sorry for his accusation. What he thought was this man’s litter was, in fact, his own. It was the wrapping from his new printer! How had it managed to get outside?   

†

If we would spend more time policing our own actions instead of scrutinizing what others are doing we would be doing ourselves a great favor instead of the injustice we do by keeping track of other’s supposed shortcomings. 

Had the pastor been willing to pick up the piece of plastic when he’d first noticed it he could have saved himself weeks of unnecessary frustration, and a very awkward and embarrassing moment.  

Taking the opportunity to help someone instead of criticizing them might just save us an awkward moment; something we should keep in mind the next time we are tempted to judge. 

Prayer

“Father, help me overlook the actions of others and focus on sweeping my own side of the street. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Sound of Freedom

October 9

But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge…

Matthew 27:14

Lieutenant Colonel, Ian ‘Krank’ Taggart, is a jet jockey. Having flown thousands of missions during ‘Operation Desert Storm’, the War in Iraq, and the current war in Afghanistan, he has earned the right to speak about the cost of war.

“The price of freedom isn’t free, and the sound of freedom isn’t quiet,” Taggart said in an interview for a recent television documentary. He clarified his statements, “Millions of men and women have sacrificed their time, careers, and many their lives, in the fight to preserve freedom around the world.”

The picture cut from Taggart to show clips of jets flying over burned-out vehicles along stretches of highway in Iraq. The image switched to one of wounded soldiers being carried off the battlefield on a stretcher. The next clip was of several flag-draped caskets being carried onto transport planes; soldiers who had given their all were going home. It was impossible to look at these images without feeling the weight of their sacrifice.

Then the image of Lieutenant Colonel Taggart was once again front and center, his F-22 Raptor directly behind him. Pointing at the aircraft, he said, “If you’ve ever heard one of these get airborne you might imagine how loud the skies above the battlefield can be.” With a look that matched the tone of his voice, he said, “No, the price of freedom isn’t free, and the sound of freedom isn’t quiet.”

†

Many have paid a high price for us to live a life free from the tyranny of dictators and would-be conquerors. The price of war is great and we should never take that for granted.

But, the most important war in history was fought in silence; the outcome of which provided a freedom otherwise unattainable. When accused of the crime of heresy, Jesus uttered not a word. He could have called legions of angels to destroy His accusers, but remained silent; that silence cost Him His life…and purchased eternal freedom for all who will receive it.

Though the war for freedom on earth may continue, we can rest in the knowledge that our eternal freedom is no longer in jeopardy. Jesus ended that war with one loving act of silent surrender.

Prayer

“Thank You, Jesus, for dying in silence so I can be eternally free. I accept that sacrifice now and ask You to come into my heart and make me whole. Amen.”

 Headed Home

October 8

…we will come to them and make our home with them.

John 14:23

On the way home from a family wedding in North Carolina, Jamie had taken a more scenic route, wanting to take in the lush mountain vistas.

This was the Blue Ridge chain of the Appalachians, and more beautiful country was hard to come by. However, the narrow roads were torn up from the rough winter the area had experienced. Suddenly, a huge pothole loomed in his lane. With on-coming traffic, Jamie wasn’t able to avoid it. The impact almost ripped the steering wheel from his grasp, and the ensuing ‘THUD’ caused the tire to blow out.

Remembering his spare was buried under all their suitcases and a couple pieces of furniture Celeste’s sister had sent home with them he grumbled, “Just great! Thirty-seven hundred feet up a mountain and no gas station for miles.”

As Jamie was contemplating the most direct route to the spare tire a large wrecker came around the bend. It slowed, and pulled up beside them, “Can I give you a hand?” the bearded driver asked with a knowing smile.

As it turned out, the wrecker was from a fleet of full-service trucks; the driver even had the exact tire Jamie needed! Half an hour later, new tire mounted and balanced, they were back on the road.

†

Every path in life has potholes and challenges, and Satan does his best to make sure we don’t have a clear view of the road ahead. And just like Jamie, we get blind-sided every now and then.

While in the midst of the struggle we can lose sight of the truth: this is not our home, and everything we suffer now is only temporal.

Having made that point, the fact remains that temporal suffering is miserable, and we can find ourselves taking detours that make the journey home more painful and lengthy.

Jesus, in today’s text, reminds us to hang on to His promise that one day soon our suffering will end, and we will be home! Until that time comes He will continue to send help during trying times…just like He did for Jamie.

Prayer

“When I’m in the midst of struggles and pain remind me that I’m not home yet, Lord, and give me the strength to hang on until I get there. Amen.”

 Listen, AND Obey

October 7

“Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Luke 11:28

To set the stage for this story let me begin by saying I am the author of this devotional and its predecessor, so...

Preparing to run an errand I heard God whisper, “Put a couple copies of Snapshots in the car…”

“I’m just going over the hill and back, Lord,” I reasoned, and dismissed His gentle request. Six miles into the trip I noticed a sign in a front yard. A family was inviting people to join them in prayer; the simple assertion read, “PRAY” citing 2 Chronicles 7:14.

It’s not beyond God to use sarcasm with me: “Let Me see…” He began. “Didn’t I tell Craig to put books in the car? Why yes…I did!” Completely chastised, I continued to my destination, knowing I would be stopping here on my way back; God reminded me, “Without books...”

My knock was greeted by a young mother with a toddler perched on her hip. After a preliminary conversation regarding the sign, I explained God’s directive to me that morning and apologized for not listening. I asked if I might be allowed to return that evening when her husband was home. “With the book you were supposed to have…” God chided.

“That would be wonderful!” she said graciously.

That evening they explained how for the past several months they’d been seeking a ‘relationship’ with Jesus instead of the religiosity that was being practiced in their church. As things seemed to be getting harder rather than easier, they had asked God to give them a sign that He knew of their plight, and that they were on the right path.

I smiled and shared about the joy and frustration of personally contending for God’s touch.

†

I smile at God’s patience with His creation. How He puts up with my indifference is amazing. We all fail from time to time at being instantly obedient.

Graciously, because I yielded to His second signal, God used me to encourage a family searching for a relationship with His Son. He let them know He was watching, and had heard their petition.

Jesus says we will be blessed if we listen and obey God’s words. We must remember that many times our response to His request involves others.

Prayer

“Father, no matter what You say or when, help me be instant in obedience. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Power to Redeem

October 6

Praise the LORD…who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion…

Psalm 103:2,4

“I was responding to a robbery/assault,” Marc began. “The victim was a known heroin addict…at a known drug house at 3:00am. I figured, this is a drug-involved incident gone bad. But as I questioned him, he told me he’d changed, getting away from everything and everyone that had anything to do with his past involvement in drugs. He assured me that he was working on his marriage, was holding down a job, and they were going to church regularly.

‘This was my old crash pad,’ he explained. ‘I wanted to get the last of my belongings, so I stopped on my way to work this morning.’ Still, part of me doubted his story. Then, in my spirit, God suggested I listen to his story, and give him the benefit of the doubt.

‘When I got there,’ he continued, ‘these three dudes dragged me inside, beat me, and took my cash.’

This sounded like the truth. I decided to investigate further. Realizing the likelihood of getting his stuff back was slim, I silently asked God for any help He was willing to give… When the dust settled we’d recovered everything…including the $50.00 they’d taken during the beating! We even located and identified his three assailants!

I was ready to dismiss the supernatural transformation in this man’s life, and would have, had it not been for God’s intervention. That night God showed me His redeeming power is greater than the deepest, darkest oppression Satan can ever hope to impose on us!”

†

The adage, ‘Once and addict, always an addict’ is one of Satan’s most insidious lies.

Today’s text says there is no one beyond God’s redeeming power. Yet we still label others with their past.

By making these malicious statements, ignorant people utter curse-filled lies over unsuspecting people, unknowingly sanctioning attacks from the enemy on that person (Proverbs 18:21).

We must choose wisely the words we speak over others because their fruit will be born out in the lives of those we speak over. We should never give them a battle they didn’t ask for.

Prayer

“LORD, I believe in the power of Your grace. Teach me to edify and not endanger others when I speak. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Distant Shores

October 5

Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.

Proverbs 4:1

Marion had been sailing since he was old enough to hold the tiller steady. In fact, when he graduated High School, his parents helped him purchase a twenty-two foot single-mast sailboat, instead of a car. He’d spent every spare moment sailing the clipper or shining its brass. Each trip was an adventure, an exploration into nautical navigation’s boundless classroom. There was something spiritually liberating about sailing on the open sea, and Marion discovered a deeper yearning for adventure that until now had laid dormant.

His father had aroused his interest, “Nothing like it, Son…you and the sea! She’ll treat you right if you listen to her! But she’ll kill you quick if you ignore her warnings! Remember…in order to reach the other shoreline, you have to lose sight of the one you set sail from. Don’t be afraid; trust your compass and your skill as a sailor and navigator. Never forget that God is in control, and you’ll be just fine.”

Marion smiled nostalgically as the old clipper rounded the outer marker. He had listened to his father’s counsel, and today he was passing that wisdom on to his eight year-old son. “Hold her steady, Nicholas. Just get a feel for the pull on the tiller.”

†

Because Marion’s father had nurtured his love and fascination for the sea, as well as his trust in Jesus Christ to navigate the circumstances of his life, Marion had not only become a proficient sailor, he had learned to completely rely on God.

As fathers, we can do no greater service for our children than to nurture an adventurous spirit, and an adventurous spirit in the Lord. God is not a Father Who wants us to stay tied at anchor, bored with the tedium of life. He wants us to set sail for distant shores, and to remember that in order to reach the unseen goal we must lose sight of the comfortable shoreline we are standing on.

Prayer

“Give me the strength and courage to set sail for distant shorelines You want me to stand on, Lord. And help me to not look back in anxious fear. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 The Dime

October 4

“…see that you also excel in this grace of giving…God loves a cheerful giver.”

2 Corinthians 8:7, 9:7

Kelly and Barb had been going to Grove Nazarene for almost a year when they decided it was time to get on board financially. Actually, it was more Barb’s idea than Kelly’s. Still not completely sold on tithing, Kelly reluctantly wrote a check for ten percent of their week’s income, and stuck it in his shirt pocket.

During church he weighed the merits of giving away their hard-earned income to a church that, as far as he could see, didn’t really need his money. The silent debate raged even as the ushers began receiving the offering.

With the basket just two rows away, Kelly noticed his three-year-old daughter reaching for something on the floor. Being a conscientious father, Kelly had scanned the carpet and chairs for anything a small child might find and stick in their mouth when the usher had seated them. Having found nothing earlier, Kelly was surprised, when holding a dime at arm’s length, she asked, “Can I put this in the basket, Daddy?”

Perceptive enough to recognizing the significance of the mysteriously-appearing dime—ten cents being ten percent of one dollar…God’s mandate for tithing—Kelly couldn’t get the check out of his pocket and into the basket fast enough!

In the subsequent weeks and months, God showed Kelly that his faithfulness in tithing would be met with God’s faithfulness in meeting every financial need.

† † †

God will not pry from our hands what is rightfully His…ten percent or otherwise. He will, however, provide object lessons for our benefit such as having Paul share the eager generosity of the Macedonian’s with the Corinthian church (2Corinthians 8:1-7) in the hope they might follow the Macedonian’s lead. He provided a similar lesson for Kelly using his daughter and a dime.

God considers us sensitive enough to understand these lessons, leaving the response to us. He’s looking for those who would advance His Kingdom; not simply out of obedience, but out of a glad heart that finds joy in seeing His Kingdom prosper.

Prayer

“Teach me to hold on loosely to the things You have given me, Father. Create in me a heart that cheerfully invests in the Kingdom of Your Christ. Amen.”

 Shift Your Focus

October 3

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus...

Hebrews 12:1, 2

As the service started, Laura noticed the young man in a motorized wheelchair. She watched as he pressed a button on his control stick. The chair portion of his mobility unit lifted, extending up and back, giving him the ability to use the limited function of his arms and hands to push himself to a sitting position so he didn’t have to remain slumped in his seat. He then lowered the chair back down, and began to sing.

Oh, Lord…Laura thought, I have nothing to complain about! If he can come in here and sing with that smile on his face then I can do the same! and with that, Laura joined in the chorus of Chris Tomlin’s ‘Amazing Grace, My Chains Are Gone’.

The message that day was about shifting our focus off our problems, where Satan wants it, and looking to the One Who has the ability to lift us above every trial, struggle and sorrow we will ever face, to a place of peace and security in the midst of the struggle.

God spoke to Laura, “I know of your pain and problems. I promise that one day soon your struggles will end. Until then, look to Me. If you do, I will set you free.”

†

In Tomlin’s rendition of Amazing Grace, he sings, ‘My chains are gone; I’ve been set free…’ The power of such truth comes from knowing that no matter what happens to us in this world, and bad things do happen to us all, we can find rest and freedom in Christ Jesus to weather every storm.

This is not to say we do not feel pain, and our problems aren’t real…they are ours and we must walk through them. But we don’t have to focus on them.

The secret is in what we spend our time looking at. If we focus on the problem the problem is what we will see, feel, and live. Conversely, if we set our eyes on Jesus, we will find peace and confidence that breaks the chains of emotional and spiritual captivity.

Prayer

“Give me the strength to keep my eyes and mind focused on You, Lord Jesus. Just for today, help me remain fixed on You, and Your power to break my chains! Amen.”

 He Records Each Tear

October 2

Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?

Psalm 56:8 NKJV

Going through Helen’s belongings was proving to be as difficult as Ken figured it would be. Having experienced the pain of loss before, he’d put it off for the first six months following his wife’s death. Today he hoped that sorting through things might bring some comfort and chase away his melancholy.

As Ken opened the ornate jewelry box, his eyes fell on the small vial with the purple ribbon tied around the neck. His tears began anew. “I forgot about this, Lenny…” he silently whispered. Holding the little glass container at eye level, he read the small tag he himself had attached to the vial, “He knows your pain and has recorded every tear. He misses nothing and comforts your soul.” His crying intensified until he was sobbing.

Twenty years ago, they’d lost their oldest daughter, Laura, to cancer. At a time when he and Helen needed comfort and the assurance that God was aware of their pain, a friend had given them a plaque with Psalm 56:8 written over the picture of a scroll with God’s hand holding a quill.

This was a special vial. For in it was their daughter’s tears, tears Ken had wiped from Laura’s eyes and placed in this vial during her battle. He’d given the vial to Helen as a reminder that God was keeping track of her heartache, one tear at a time.

Reminded of how they’d weathered that storm, Ken found renewed hope for the future.

†

In the midst of our deepest pain we have more questions than answers. And sometimes God feels far away, distant and aloof. But through each trial we face He offers comfort, sometimes through a verse of scripture, sometimes through a kind word from a friend, always in a way He hopes we’ll recognize as personal.

Does it end the pain? Not entirely. But He offers us healing, and promises to make it bearable if we’ll give Him our burden.

Thanks to David, we can take comfort in the knowledge that God not only knows about our heartache, but catches and records every tear…because that’s what a loving Father does.

Prayer

“In this dark night of my soul, Lord, catch and record each tear I cry. Give me hope for the future. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

 Awaken the Dawn

October 1

I will awaken the dawn. I will praise you, Lord…for great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.

Psalm 57:8, 9, 10

Sitting in the pre-dawn woods, Eric and Corey anticipated the morning’s hunt…and the display they were about to witness.

As the sun began its ascent in the southeastern sky mute colors began to trace their way across the horizon. First to appear was a deep purple, barely noticeable through the trees. With just enough clouds in the sky to receive the tints and hues of a Mid Western sunrise, the hunting partners watched the day begin. The parade of color was captivating. Each passing moment brought subtle, almost imperceptible changes. Shades of pastel light began appearing as if they were being painted on a canvas: cobalt blue, lavender, pink; all mingled to create a celestial pallet. Moments later, burnt umbra began spreading tendrils of brightening luminescence north and south, inching higher in the sky.

Finally, as the golden sphere of the sun peeked above the hills, the lighter blue of daylight began to bring definition and detail to the woods. Shadows were chased into hiding. Animals that had been moving under the cover of darkness were now visible.

Corey and Eric began surveying their surroundings, grinning at each other with a knowing smile. They’d shared enough sunrises to know what the other was thinking: What a way to spend the morning!

†

There are few things that rival the magnificence of a sunrise when viewed from nature’s vantage point. Witnessing such splendor from introduction to finale is God’s visual utterance of Paul’s verbal declaration: For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities…have been clearly seen… Romans 1:20

Sadly, many of us regard the freshest part of the day as but the beginning of another struggle; we can no longer see the beauty of God’s “Good Morning!” Numb to His greeting, we lose the ability to be moved and lifted by such a display, above our struggles, giving us a better position from which to gain perspective for today.

If you’ve missed today’s sunrise do your soul a favor…get up early enough to bear witness to Tomorrow’s.

Prayer

“Lord, teach me to see things as You see them. Open the eyes of my heart and bring a fresh perspective to my day. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”