.....drifter

Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom Genesis 13:12

Perhaps you have heard this old saying: There are three kinds of people in life.... 

   those who make things happen, 

   those who watch things happen, and 

   those who say, "What happened?"

Lot seems to have been a member of the third category.  As you read about him in Scripture, you get the impression of a guy who just floated through life, taking the path of least resistance. 

He never seemed to wrestle with difficult questions such as "What are the long-term consequences of this choice? or I wonder what God wants me to do?"  Instead, he lived for the moment.  He never anchored himself to the truth of God and so was swept along by a corrupt culture to places he probably never wanted to go.  Lot and his family suffered death, incest, and disgrace because he allowed the world to shape his life and determine his direction.

Are you drifting? Do you have firm convictions about how God expects you to live?  Have you anchored yourself to the truth of God?  Do you have some definite goals in view?  If you don't take specific steps to place yourself under God's direction, you will turn out like Lot, one of those poor souls who gets into one mess after another. Your life will be a tragic example of what might have been.

People who drift without God's direction usually end up where they don't want to be.

What will it profit when life is over,

Though far away places I may see,

If, by going my own way and doing my own will,

I miss out on what God has planned for me?

Don't become a drifter.  

Determine right now to stay close to God and make a definite commitment to follow Christ each and every day with all your heart and stay close to Him.  When you do, He will direct every step you take - and you won't "drift". Proverbs 3:5-6

- dave langerfeld

.....roof

King David gave in to temptation with Bathsheba and then tried to cover up his sin with lies and murder. How could someone described by God as, "A man after My own heart" Acts 13:22, make such a bad error in judgment? 

Sin is rarely the result of a single poor choice. Most often, the actual sin is caused by a long drift away from the presence of God and several specific decisions made outside His will.

"In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem."2 Samuel 11:1

David had become complacent about his duties as King. When the rest of his men were off at war, David stayed home with not much to do. He could have spent time drawing closer to God with prayer and study of the Word, but apparently David allowed himself to become quite restless.

"One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful."2 Samuel 11:2

David walked on the roof and he saw a naked woman in a washing! Remember that David built this palace - he knew every detail of the architecture. "But each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin" James 1:14-15.

David's sin began long before he climbed into bed with Bathsheba. It began with letting down his guard of self-discipline and wandering from God; it then continued by entering an area of compromise - an area where he was enticed.

We must all recognize our "roof" where we become susceptible to temptation: "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it" 1 Corinthians 10:13. Many times, our way out of temptation is simply to not visit the place where we know temptation resides - to not allow temptation to even germinate in our heart.

Is there a restlessness which is causing us to drift from God? 

Are we spending time and energy on activities, in places or conversations (physical or virtual), which we know are not honoring to God? Let's remain in His presences and ask God to open our eyes to the vulnerable areas of our life; let's commit to walk the path of purity and stay off the roof!

- adapted from steve troxel

.....trading

When Isaac was sixty years old, his wife Rebecca gave birth to twin sons. Esau was born first, followed immediately by Jacob; "with his hand grasping Esau's heal" Genesis 25:26. Esau grew to be a skillful hunter while Jacob stayed more around the tents with his mother.

In the days of Esau and Jacob, the firstborn son was given a special honor called the birthright. The child having the birthright received a double portion of the family inheritance as well as the eventual privilege of family leadership. The birthright could be traded, but all future birthright blessings were then lost.

"Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, 'Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished!' Jacob replied, 'First sell me your birthright.' 'Look, I am about to die,' Esau said. 'What good is the birthright to me?'" Genesis 25:29-32

Esau was a young man who lived "in the moment" and traded his birthright for a bowl of stew. He placed much greater value on immediate gratification than on future blessings, and he exaggerated his immediate need in order to justify the future loss. The mighty hunter may have been hungry - maybe even VERY hungry - but he certainly was not about to die.

Esau's decision to let go of his birthright was based on the temporary needs he could see and feel. His focus on the immediate caused him to lose the blessings which were greater and long lasting, but unseen. Jacob would later steal Esau's final blessing from their father, but Esau freely gave away his birthright blessing because he never understood its true value.

Similar trades are being made today. We just don't understand (or believe) the value of blessings. When a child leaves home in rebellion, they trade the blessing of an honoring relationship with their parents for perceived pleasures of immediate freedom. When a spouse pursues a relationship outside of marriage, they trade the blessing of a God-honoring union for perceived pleasures of the flesh. 

And when we fail to "wait upon the Lord" with decisions, we have allowed our impatience to trade away the blessing of walking in God's perfect will. We may spend a lifetime understanding the value of this blessing!

So what bowl of stew are we trading for today? God has promised a blessing for those who believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior, for those who trust in Him for the forgiveness of sin and walk daily in His light. He has promised to set us free to live a life of true peace, purpose, and contentment, and an eternal glory in His presence when we die. 

ALL worldly pleasures will one day fade away; "For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" 2 Corinthians 4:18. Let's devote our lives to worship and obediently follow wherever He leads. Let's keep our eyes on the eternal and NEVER trade the blessing.

- steve troxel

.....direction

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him James 1:5 You do not have because you do not ask God. You don't have what you want because you don't ask God for it. James 4:2

With us, it is "pink-blue". When my husband wants to go shopping, oh wait, he never "wants" to go shopping. But when he does go shopping, he knows what he wants before he leaves the house. He goes to the store, "shoots it", "bags it", and brings it home. End of trip, mission accomplished.

When I go shopping, however, I like to look at everything. I may know what I want before I leave the house, but I have to look at all the choices, all the options, to see if what I'm choosing is what I really like best, is the best bargain, the best color, etc.

When it comes to other things I like to review all the options before making a decision. Last year I had an opportunity for a choice in a career-change. I read all kinds of advice in self help books, I asked my friends, got all sorts of varied opinions. And I became confused.

I simply didn't know what to do. I was sitting on everything, with options continually flipping over and over in my mind. It was frustrating. And then a light bulb went off in my head, an "Aha!" moment.

As I was listening to audio Bible verses, my ears perked up as Psalm 25 was read: "Show me" your ways, O Lord, "teach me" your paths; give me your truth and teach me, "for you are my God" my "Savior", and my hope is in you all day long."

Revelation began to come. The muddled thinking cleared. As I moved onto a path carved out for me, I had the peace of the Holy Spirit. Honestly, I certainly knew to go to God with my situation. But in truth, I was checking out every other wisdom avenue. It was like sitting in a rocking chair, thinking I'm going somewhere, but I haven't moved at all - I am thankful for the comforting Bible verse in James 1, which says,"the Lord will give wisdom generously to us." Pretty awesome. And, it's Good News.

- sally l kennedy

.....adopted

And the child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son; and she named him Moses, for she said, "Because I drew him out of the water Exodus 2:10

I have a cousin who is adopted. While I have always regarded her in the same way I do any of my other blood relatives, she revealed to me that there was a period in her life she felt like she didn't really belong because she was not born into her family. When she would express these feelings to me, I would always remind her that her adoptive parents choosing her above all other children was proof that she was a very much wanted and loved child.

The word "adoption" is derived from its Latin meaning: option. When we have an option, we have a choice. In this case, there is the choosing of another person's child as one's own. As we can see from the above Bible verse, the concept of adoption is ancient. However, just as there is earthly adoption, so too is there a spiritual adoption.

Those of us who repent of our sins partake of God's offer of eternal life and allow ourselves to be born again by the renewing of our spirits, are now children of God.   "But to all who received Him, who believed in His Name, He gave power to become children of God" John 1:12

God is our Father, and we are His children. We have become heirs of Jesus Christ, and share the bloodline of the Most High.  "you have received the spirit of son-ship. When we cry, "Abba! Father!" it is the Spirit Himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him" Romans 8:15-17

Although I am not adopted, there was a time when I was a young adult that I too felt disunity with my natural parents. There were moments when I too felt alone, and that there was no one that I could really talk to. My comfort, however, was found in my relationship with God. Whenever I felt low, I would remind myself of who I was. When you are a son or daughter of the Most High, and whose love is so rich, and family so vast, it is impossible to feel down for long.

If you are not yet a child of God, please know that our Heavenly Father is just waiting for you to come to Him. His love for you is already there, but the choice to grab hold of His outstretched hand must be yours, for God would never force His love on an unwilling heart.

Come, and be adopted into the body of Christ!

- dave langerfeld

.....fire

 Ice will turn to water at a temperature just above zero degrees centigrade. We might consider the water to be consumed as it turns to steam at one hundred degrees centigrade. Wood must be heated to a much higher temperature before it is consumed, and metal must be heated even more. I wonder how much heat is required to finally consume the works of my flesh and burn away my selfishness and pride.

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire Hebrews 12:28-29

When we begin to understand the Kingdom we have inherited through Christ, we dare not enter His sanctuary with anything but pure praise and worship. Whatever else we attempt to bring is born in our flesh with a spirit of pride. If we say, "Look at what I've brought You, my Lord!" He will simply burn it to ash. We might protest, "But God, look at all I've done for You!" But the heat will be turned up until all we hold is consumed.

Is our greatest ambition to impact the world for Christ? Is our motivation to be significant in the eyes of God or become a major player in the advancement of His Kingdom? Beware! Though these sound good and have the appearance of being pleasing to God, they are conceived in pride and will be consumed.

We truly can bring Him NOTHING of worth except a pure heart; "All our righteous acts are like filthy rags" Isaiah 64:6. Our greatest desire (our ONLY desire) must be to praise and worship the King through all we think, say, and do. All our striving to be obedient and produce good works - all of our "Godly" motivation and ambition - must flow simply as a direct outpouring of our worship.

If we are still trying to conquer something for Christ, we have not yet fully submitted to His leading nor found complete rest in His strength. Jesus came with all knowledge and power, and yet He walked with absolute surrender and submission; "the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what My Father has commanded Me" John 14:31.

This is a daily challenge, one of the more subtle battles between the Spirit and the flesh. While we must strive, we must also remember that God does not need anything we produce. True fruit which pleases our Heavenly Father comes only as we "remain in the vine" John 15:4, and love Him with all our heart.

The same fire that will one day burn all our righteous acts can be used today to cleanse our heart until only the One remains. Let's come into His presence and worship with pure reverence and awe. 

Let's allow every selfish desire and every fiber of pride to be burned away in His consuming fire.

- steve troxel

.....questions

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace John 16:33

If I live to be a hundred there are some things I will never understand. Why do some people live, and some die? Why do some people have debilitating diseases and others, perfect health? Why do some have loads of money and others struggle to survive? Why do some get caught and others go free? Why do some people recover and get well, others don’t?

Don’t we all wonder about these questions? I do, from time to time, and my answer is always the same, “I don’t know.” I don’t know much, and even less the older I get. My list of questions I want to ask when I get to heaven is pretty long.

In this life, there are a lot of mysteries. We will not humanly understand many things. Yet underlying all the unknowns is the one great thing we do know: God is still on his throne. He is still sovereign, still in charge. He knows what is going on. He doesn’t just wake up one morning, look down, and say, “Oh my! Look at that!!”

We may not be able to trust in the system, in people, in circumstances or luck. But we can trust in the Lord God. And the promise is that one day, every tear shall be wiped away. Every sickness, every injustice, every heartache.

Jesus said we will surely have troubles here on earth, but to be undaunted and confident because He has overcome the world’s power to harm us permanently.

Bottom-line, the answer to all these questions really is - hang onto the promise, and hold onto the the Lord.

- sally i. kennedy

.....living

We are encouraged to build our lives upon the absolute and unwavering standard of God's Word. His Word is truth and holds the answer to every problem we will ever confront. If we search for answers and prayerfully reflect on the truth of God's Word - if we indeed consider His Word as absolute and unchanging, and apply it directly into our life - we will find the solutions have been available long before we were born.

"For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account." Hebrews 4:12-13

Without changing in content or meaning, the Word of God adapts to every situation. If we maintain the habit of reading and reflective study, we will find new insights in what appear to be the peeling back of multiple layers of understanding. But it is actually us who are being peeled back and laid bare by the ever present truths of His Word.

The passage, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" Proverbs 3:5, will have a much different meaning after we have obediently followed God for several years. Each time adversity strikes and doubts arise, we will find an ever deeper calling in the phrase "with ALL your heart." And though we walk with Him for all the rest of our days, we may never fully appreciate the words; "God demonstrated His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" Romans 5:8. How our lives would change if we could ever fully understand His love!

We do not truly "dig deeper" into the Word; rather, the Word digs deeper into us! Scriptural truths are not revealed until our hunger is so great that we are willing to place our life on the table and allow the sword of truth to cut deep inside. Do we really desire to know God, His Word, and His Spirit? Do we really want to understand the depth of God's love and the implications of His justice? 

Then be advised: even necessary and beneficial surgery can be painful. When our chest is opened, the condition of our heart is revealed; and that which is dark and displeasing must be cut away and burned.

But fear not! Our Heavenly Father is a skilled surgeon who can make our heart new and prepared to yield to His Spirit. The solution to our most complex problems is always found in His presence, and He has given His Word to show us how to draw near. Our lives are in need of some divine surgery today! 

Let's allow our heart to be cut by the truth, to be exposed and purified by the Living Word.

- stefano troxel

.....blister

For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them. Matthew 13:15

When the heat of summer faded into the cool fall, it was time for me to begin my walking program. I was so enthusiastic as I laced my shoes and took off in the delightful early morning air. Trees were vibrant colors, some flowers were still blooming and all was well with the world! 

That was, unfortunately, until I began to experience some discomfort on one toe. Well, no matter, I pressed onward with my walk, enjoying the beauty of the day. Before long, it really hurt and I was very aware that something was wrong. Each step became painful and I started to hobble as I made the last turn for home. It seems the new walking shoes held my foot in a slightly different alignment, and the skin on my toe was being rubbed raw. 

I doctored my toe and the next morning I tried to protect it with a fat padding of cotton and a Band-Aid. I thought that would be plenty of protection and went on my way. This added protection did help numb the pain - I couldn't feel it quite as much, and there was no bleeding.  Day after day went by like this, and then one day I looked at that toe. The spot had become hard and callused where the blister had been, and I realized I hadn't felt anything for quite some time.

Have you ever done something wrong, and had a terrible guilty conscious about it? Something which really hurts you in your heart, and you feel awful about it? Perhaps telling a small lie - so as not to hurt a friend - or cheating on a test, or one of a hundred different things we can do which are not in God's will. Each time we do the same act over again, it becomes less painful, just as my blister had. 

As we repeat the wrong thought or action, we may look for secular or even peer support to protect us against the hurt in our heart which is saying, "this is WRONG". That may buffer our conscious, and lead us to totally callousness. When we feel nothing, and can repeatedly do wrong in God's eye, we have given ourselves what God calls a hardened heart. It is just like that callous on my toe - eventually you feel no regret or no sense of evil as you continue down you path of wrongdoing. 

It is a terrible thing when the heart becomes hardened, because then love can not penetrate it. We must all be on guard to listen to that little voice within us that tells us when we do something wrong. That voice is called The Holy Spirit, and He will help us stay out of the terrible rut of hard heartedness.

- marion smith 

.....line

Amos was a shepherd when God called him to preach to the northern kingdom of Israel. For more than one hundred and fifty years, the northern kingdom had worshipped by their own set of rules and even began to worship other gods. Amos was sent to reveal their sin and call the people to repentance. He warned they must return to God with all their heart or face certain judgment.

"This is what He showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in His hand. Then the Lord said, 'Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer.'"Amos 7:7-8

Building a wall seems relatively easy: stack one brick on top of another until the proper height and width is achieved. But without a reference line, it's nearly impossible to determine when the wall is straight. Without a true standard as a guide, our well-intended efforts produce a jagged mess which will soon crumble and fall. 

Plumb lines have been used in the building process for thousands of years as a stable reference, a true standard. A plumb line is simply a string with a weight on one end which will hang straight because of the unchanging pull of gravity.

God used a plumb line to show that the people of Israel had once been true, but now they were building their lives without a reference. God had established clear guidelines and preserved them within His Word. He was now bringing judgments according to His unchanging standard; "I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line" Isaiah 28:17

The people did not listen to Amos' plea. They continued to live outside God's will and were guided by their own evil desires. God's judgment came thirty years after the end of Amos' ministry as He allowed the Assyrian army to march through the northern kingdom and bring complete destruction in 722 BC.

God is making the same call to us today. We cannot continue to build using the world's system of values as our reference. The world's system is a standard in constant change, sinking deeper and deeper into the slimy pit. We may try to justify our actions by remaining slightly "above" the standard of the world, but as this standard continues to sink, we will continue to follow it down. This should NOT be our chosen path!!

Our lives need an unchanging reference to call us back when we stray. This reference must be the Word of God which calls us to a life of absolute pure devotion. When we build on the foundation of Christ and determine to love Him with ALL our heart, His Word ensures we will rise tall and not be found leaning to the left or right. 

Let's build a life which is true and does not waver.

 Let's live by His Word and build according to God's plumb line.

- steve troxel

.....sent

We are encouraged to share the message of truth with whoever God places in our path. We saw the need to reach people where they are, "to the weak I became weak" 1 Corinthians 9:22, and the need to share without self-righteous condemnation. We see the need to share His truth without compromise as we lift up the name of Jesus Christ.

The Word of God teaches there is only one way to Heaven: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" John 14:6. Salvation is a gift of grace given to those who place their faith in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin - there is no other way! And although relatively few will actually travel the narrow road that leads to life, the road is available to ALL who will come; "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" Romans 10:13.

It's God's desire for everyone to call on His name; "not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" 2 Peter 3:9...but not everyone will. Some have hardened their heart through continued rejection and willful disobedience and now refuse to repent and receive the truth. Others simply never hear the Good News.

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent?"Romans 10:14-15

Only God is able to draw someone near and lead them to repentance, and only the Holy Spirit can transform someone's heart into a "new creation" 2 Corinthians 5:17. But God has chosen to give His children the responsibility of sharing His message of forgiveness and truth with the world; "As You sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world" John 17:18.

In order for the message of Salvation to truly reach the world, we who know the truth must accept our commission to be "sent." We must be determined to share the gospel message whenever and wherever He directs; "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations" Matthew 28:19. This may mean in another country, but it may also mean in our own backyard, or in our own family as we love them and demonstrate the true peace of Jesus.

Let's faithfully pick up the torch today. We have been given everything we need (2 Peter 1:3); we do not lack any Spiritual gift 1 Corinthians 1:7, and we have been declared ambassadors for Christ 2 Corinthians 5:20. The world is waiting to hear! Let's BOLDLY go forth with His Word and with an assurance that we have been sent!

- steve troxel

.....name

We are strongly encouraged to share a message of truth which is uncompromising and aligned with the Word of God. We cannot continue to trust in the messages of the world, or in the teaching of the "religious," when their words are not supported by Biblical Truth!

Toward the end of a passage we call "The Sermon on the Mount," Jesus gave a strong warning: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it" Matthew 7:13-14. 

Our message must always lead down the "narrow road" and toward the "narrow gate" of Salvation. If it does, it is truth and honoring to God; if it does not, it is full of deceit and grieves our Heavenly Father.

Of course, the most important aspect of a true message is the name of Jesus. If our message does not include the sacrifice of Jesus as our necessary and sufficient path to forgiveness and eternal life, then we do not carry a message of truth. Without Jesus there is no Christian faith - there is no eternal hope.

Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in Heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord Philippians 2:9-11

God exalted (lifted up) Jesus to the highest place in Heaven. Have we exalted Him to the highest place in our own life? Before we have any chance of communicating a message of truth with the world, we must have a message of truth residing in our own heart. 

Have we truly accepted His forgiveness which only comes through faith, or are we still trying to earn our way, chasing after false messengers, and traveling down the broad road of destruction? Do we love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength Mark 12:30, or are we still just getting acquainted from a distance?

What about our place of worship? God has an important role for the local church and desires each of us to be in fellowship with other believers. But if our church does not lift up the name of Jesus Christ, it becomes little more than a social club leading an entire flock of lost sheep down the broad road away from the gate. God forbid!

Let's exalt Jesus to the highest place in our life, in our home, and in our church. Let's love Him with all our heart and take active steps to draw closer to His presence. Let's show the world that eternal life is only through faith in the name which is above all other names - the name of Jesus.

- steve troxel

.....preach

We each have a message to share, a message which can encourage and be used to draw others to faith in Jesus." We were then exhorted to "begin to share this message with ALL." But as we boldly go out and begin to minister to others, we must ensure we are ministering according to truth.

Paul's second letter to Timothy was the last of his writings. Written while in prison and awaiting a certain death, Paul used this letter to give some final encouragement to a young preacher.

I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction 2 Timothy 4:1-2

Paul knew his time of ministry had come to an end, and with his last words he told Timothy to carefully "Preach the Word." Timothy had been taught the true Word of God, but Paul warned that people would not accept this truth; "Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear" 2 Timothy 4:3.

There have always been those who distort the Gospel message - always those who remove the sufficiency of the Cross or the necessity of a repentant heart. The world rewards those who dilute the truth of Christ with the philosophy of man and his methods of success. Unfortunately, false teachers will continue to abound and will always have an audience.

But we must refuse to compromise! We have been given the Word of God - a message of truth which can change the world. And while this message is a wonderful blessing, it also carries an incredible responsibility. We are called to know this message and apply its principles of forgiveness, grace, and love as we live a life devoted to holiness, thanksgiving, and praise. We then must share this message of absolute truth with others at every opportunity.

Our time here is very, very short. We are "a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" James 4:14. Some of us may vanish in a few days, others not for many years - but we will ALL vanish. What remains in the end will ONLY be that which is done according to truth and for the glory of God...so let's make the most of every moment!

Let's focus more of our time and effort on the treasures which last for eternity and demonstrate the love of Christ. Let's remain aligned to His Word and continue to apply the truth we have received, sharing with others without shame or compromise. Let's accept the charge today to stand firm and Preach the Word!

- steve troxel

.....eitherway

The fear of rejection may be one of the most basic fears of the human experience. Dr. Joe Harding tells a heart-warming story of a man who finally decided to ask his boss for a raise in salary. It was Friday. He told his wife that morning what he was about to do. All day the man felt nervous and apprehensive. Late in the afternoon he summoned the courage to approach his employer. To his delight, the boss agreed to a raise.

The man arrived home to a beautiful table set with their best china. Candles were lighted. His wife had prepared a festive meal. Immediately he figured that someone from the office had tipped her off! Finding his wife in the kitchen, he told her the good news. They embraced and kissed, then sat down to a wonderful meal. Next to his plate the man found a beautiful lettered note. It read: "Congratulations, darling! I knew you'd get the raise! These things will tell you how much I love you."

While on his way to the kitchen to get dessert he noticed that a second card had fallen from her pocket. Picking it off the floor, he read: "Don't worry about not getting the raise! You deserve it anyway! These things will tell you how much I love you."

Total acceptance! Total love. Her love for him was not contingent upon his success at work. In fact, just the opposite. If he were to fail there, if he were to be rejected by his boss, he'd be all the more accepted at home. She stood behind him no matter what; softening the blows, healing the wounds, believing in him, loving him. We can be rejected by almost anyone if we're loved by one.

That's the way families can be with each other - and I think that's the way God is with us, too! "We love Him because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16 

- david langerfeld

.....storm

 "He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 

'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down and it was completely calm." Mark 4:39

I did not know His love before, the way I know it now.
I could not see my need for Him, my pride would not allow.
I had it all, without a care, the "Self-Sufficient" lie.
My path was smooth, my sea was still, not a cloud was in the sky.

I thought I knew His love for me, I thought I'd seen His grace,
I thought I did not need to grow, I thought I'd found my place.
But then the way grew rough and dark, the storm clouds quickly rolled;
The waves began to rock my ship and my anchor would not hold.

The ship that I had built myself, was made of foolish pride.
It fell apart and left me bare, with nowhere else to hide.
I had no strength or faith to face, the trials that lay ahead,
And so I simply prayed to Him, and bowed my weary head.

His loving arms enveloped me, and then He helped me stand.
"You still must face this storm, my child, but I will hold your hand."
So through the dark and lonely night, He guided me through pain.
I could not see the light of day, or when the storm might wane.

Yet through the aches and endless tears, my faith began to grow.
I could not see it at the time, but my light began to glow.
I saw His love in brand new light, His grace and mercy, too.
For only when all self was gone, could Jesus' love shine through.

It was not easy in the storm, I sometimes wondered, "Why?"
At times I thought, "I can't go on." I'd hurt, and doubt, and cry.
But Jesus never left my side, He guided me each day.
Through pain and strife, through fire and flood, He helped me all the way.

And now I see as never before, how great His love can be.
How in my weakness He is strong, how Jesus cares for me!
He worked it all out for my good, although the way was rough.
He only sent what I could bear, and then He cried, "Enough!"

He raised His hand and said, "Be still!" He made the storm clouds cease.
He opened up the gates of joy, and flooded me with peace.
I see His face now clearer still, I felt His presence strong.
I found anew His faithfulness, He never did me wrong.

Now I know more storms will come, but only for my good.
For pain and tears have helped me grow, As naught else ever could.
I still have so much more to learn, as Jesus works in me;
If in the storm I'll love Him more, that's where I want to be.
- wendy greiner

.....means

The Apostle Paul was a pillar of strength who saw the ways of God more clearly than any other individual. He had a unique boldness in his message because he had received the gospel directly from God: The gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ Galatians 1:11-12.

There is no doubt that Paul had a special blessing from God: "This man {Paul} is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel" Acts 9:15. But if Paul would have remained attached to this highly favored position of strength and superior knowledge, his ministry would have been severely limited.

To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some 1 Corinthians 9:22 Paul was so devoted to preaching the Gospel that he could humbly minister to anyone! He was determined to reach every person God placed in his path - even if this meant lowering himself and becoming weak.

We must be careful to understand that weakness does not mean we engage in sin! God NEVER asks us to violate His commands in order to accomplish His will; we never need to sin in order to reach someone with the gospel. Rather, becoming weak means showing compassion without regard to a person's status; it means having the "strength" to walk beside the weak, who may be living in terrible sin, and minister the love of Jesus without condemnation. Godly weakness means showing grace to others because we understand the grace we have been given.

Our message must focus on His saving grace. Without Jesus we are ALL lost and on our way to an eternal damnation; "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" Romans 3:23. We must never forget this basic truth. We must never let our position in Christ cloud the message of the cross. We have been saved and set free; "He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness" Colossians 1:13. But now that we are free, we need to understand that the world around us is in desperate need of this same gracious Savior.

We each have a message to share, a message which can encourage and be used to draw others to faith in Jesus. Let's begin to step outside our select and "comfortable" group - outside the group we relate to and claim to understand. The Good News of Jesus is a precious life-saving gift! Let's begin to share this gift with ALL, by ALL possible means.

- adapted from steve troxel

.....test

For we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all of God's people Colossians 1:4

The Rev. and Mrs. Robert Porteous were missionaries with China Inland Mission beginning in the 1920's. They ministered in Jianxi Province and they began an intensive Bible school. Beginning in the late 1920's, communist troops rose to power and began disrupting life in the province.

In 1931, the Porteous family was taken prisoner by the communists. They were led to a lonely spot on top of a hill where they were to be executed. The leader said, "This is the place." The executioner took a long knife from its holder and raised it above the necks of the courageous couple. 

Certain death seemed imminent. However, instead of cringing and begging for mercy, the couple began to sing. The bandits stared open-mouthed as they heard this hymn...

    "Face to face with Christ, my Savior, 

    Face to face-what will it be?

    When with rapture I behold him, 

    Jesus Christ who died for me."

These two were ready for death and thought that would be their last song. But, no order was given for their execution. The executioner returned the knife to its place, and the couple was released and enjoyed another 40 years of ministry.

May we, filled with faith, be willing to give it all for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, no matter what the cost!  

     I have decided to follow Jesus

     I have decided to follow Jesus

     I have decided to follow Jesus

     No turning back, no turning back

- peter kennedy

.....waiting

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:18

Even when we don't think they are, they are. Even when we don't see them, their eyes are upon us. Even when we don't pay any attention, they do. Somebody's always watching. I got an ugly reminder of that earlier today.

We pulled into the Hampton Inn to grab a room for the night and there was one other vehicle under the registration awning as we arrived. The vehicle immediately got our attention because it had license plates that read GOSPEL. The familiar "fish" was plastered near the back bumper. And there were other Christian messages adorning the front of the vehicle as well. We knew these must be one of our kind.

And then, it happened...

They locked their keys in the car. Apparently, it was the wife's fault, judging from the tantrum and explosive words the husband began throwing at her. Unaware that we had pulled up behind them, unaware that anyone was watching, unaware that someone who had observed all their Christian decorations had their eyes locked on them, and unaware that their testimony for Christ was on open view.

This man began throwing an old-fashioned fit. Ranting and raving, hurling abusive accusations, just generally being very ugly to his wife. All because they were going to have to call AAA to get their keys out of their locked vehicle. Only God knows what would have happened if it had been a real crisis!

The point I want to make is this: you and I wear the Name of Christ. Whether or not we have a license plate that bears it or we wear a cross or a WWJD bracelet or Christian t-shirt, or whether or not we adorn the traditional fish symbol, we wear the Name of Christ 24/7/365.

That's not to say that we are going to be perfect, because we're not. It is to say that somebody's always watching. Even when we don't see them. Even when we don't know they are there. Even when we aren't paying any attention. Someone is always watching.

And it's important that we "let our lights shine" for Christ as best we can. It's important that we remember that our words and actions represent Him. It's important that we remember Christianity isn't something we put on for Sabbath days when we're at church and we take off during the remainder of the week.

If we belong to Him, then we ought to live for Him.

Today someone might pull up behind you. You may not see them, but they'll see you. You may not notice them, but they'll notice you. You may not be paying any attention to them at all, but I assure you, they will be paying attention to you.

What will they see? Will they see YOU or will they see CHRIST THROUGH YOU? Will they see the flesh working or the Spirit at work?

Today, let us endeavor prayerfully to be like Jesus by His grace. And let's let our lights shine to the glory of God for all to see. Because I can guarantee you. Somebody's always watching.

Have a "Wonderful DAY in Christ." 

- jimmy d. brown 

.....wait

God's will is for us to live a life of thanksgiving and prayer, a life of contentment and peace independent of circumstances. It is also "God's will that you should be sanctified {set apart, made holy}; that you should avoid sexual immorality" 1 Thessalonians 4:3. These are general aspects of God's will, given to every one of His Children. His specific direction will come as we obediently align our life with His general will...and wait.

We live in a generation where waiting is viewed as a waste of time, but learning to wait is one way we grow: "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" Isaiah 40:31.

This is a powerful and encouraging passage: if we wait on the Lord, we will be strengthened, soar like the eagles, and not grow weary. But what does it really mean to wait? We are not called to "take up the cross of Salvation" so we can then live our lives sitting on the couch. Rather, as believers in Jesus Christ, we have been invited to a wonderful lifetime journey - a journey which is sometimes difficult, but one always filled with adventure and purpose.

But you, man of God, flee from all this {evil}, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:11-12

Notice all the words of action: flee, pursue, fight, take hold. This is definitely a call to actively move forward in our journey of faith; a call to move toward a life as God intended it to be lived!

So do we wait, or do we fight and take hold? Do we rest and hope in the Lord, or do we flee and pursue? The answer is a simple, but absolute, yes! We are called to a life of action, to a life where we "bear much fruit" John 15:8, but we must learn to "act" while waiting and trusting God for every result. We must give Him all our effort while remaining "in the vine" John 15:4, and allowing the life of Christ to flow through us and produce the fruit.

This means we are to boldly share the gospel message, but then to wait on God for the harvest of belief. It means we are to seek opportunities and diligently prepare for service, but then continue to listen for God to reveal His desired path. It means we are to be agents of Godly change in the world, but then patiently trust His timing and rest in His strength.

God calls us to a faith of complete trust, a faith which produces both action and patience. Let's take hold and fight the good fight of faith as we learn to actively wait.

- steve troxel

.....funeral

 "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." Galatians 2:20

"There's nothing wrong with you that a good funeral won't solve," I said to the woman. "I'll even send you flowers!"  She smiled in response. I was speaking figuratively, of course, to a woman who was stressing out about an issue in her life. Her problem was the same problem that most of us have - too much of "us" and not enough of Jesus and the cross. Many of the daily problems in life can be solved by coming to an end of ourselves so Jesus can take over. 

The apostle Paul recognized the need for a "funeral" too when he penned these words: "What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?  We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" Rom 6:1-4.

Whenever we stress over a matter, get angry over a daily circumstance, or seek to have our own way - it is a sign there is still life in the grave. We need to fill it with dirt and smother the life of our flesh so that Christ may live in us freely, unhindered by the "old" man.

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." Galatians 2:20.

Send yourself some flowers today. Have a good funeral. 

- os hillman

.....changing

Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever Hebrews 13:8

Every time I looked out my window or door this week there was a huge, lovely purple Crepe Myrtle tree in my view. I would exalt God for that gorgeous example of His beautiful world. It seemed I couldn't sing and magnify His praises enough for the joy those brilliant blooms brought me. 

Today when I peeked out there again the bright purple tree was blooming, but close to it was my ten year-old granddaughter, Mary Kathryn, who had fallen from her bicycle. We could tell from the pain in her voice that major damage had been done. Her mother brought her in the house and began cleaning the injuries, but soon decided from the swelling and discomfort that she must see a doctor. 

Sure enough her arm was broken in two places. A mobile cast was placed on it until she could see an orthopedist in the next couple of days. As I passed that purple crepe myrtle again it occurred to me that much had changed quickly from that incident, but that stately tree stood there in full bloom for all the world to see. Just as lovely as it has been all those times I had gazed at it the past few days. 

I thought about how God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Unlike our personal situations he does not change. That beautiful crepe myrtle will soon shed its vibrant blooms and I can no longer adore them every time I step out the door. 

Our personal experiences were altered drastically as we hurriedly transported Mary Kathryn to the doctor with her broken arm. But our wonderful Lord we love and serve remains the same. He still Loves us and cares for us. His promises of healing, peace and comfort still apply. 

As the x-rays were read and the diagnosis was made, I knew that in this changing world of circumstances, we could still trust our unchanging God.
 - david langerfeld

.....will

Much of our Christian walk seems to involve searching for God's will. We search for His perfect will for our job, home, school, church, and relationships; and we are often frustrated because God seems silent regarding the details of our life. But God is not silent! His Word reveals much of His will, and a large portion of His will for our life today is the same as for every past generation.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

We often gloss over such passages, thinking we already understand and ought to search for "deeper" truths. But in God's plan for us to be "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29), there is no greater challenge to our faith. Do we really believe God is in control and can be trusted? Does the attitude of our heart reflect such a belief?

Our Heavenly Father desires us to live each moment with a thankful heart, full of joy - regardless of our circumstances. Why? Because this reveals our trust in a loving God. He wants us to continually commune with Him in prayer and refuse to leave His presence to pursue concerns or pleasures of the world. This portion of God's will has been clearly revealed!

But some are facing situations which make following God's will very difficult; they see absolutely no reason for rejoicing. How is it possible to be joyful when being pressed down from all directions and when the pulls of the world seem relentless?

We must begin by viewing our life from an eternal perspective rather than the temporary nature of the world; "The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever" 1 John 2:17. All our trials will soon be gone (do we really believe this?). In the end, all will glorify His name; "In all things God works for the good of those who love Him" Romans 8:28. As we trust and love Him with all our heart, God walks right by our side and works ALL things for the good. This level of trust is what Paul referred to as "the secret of being content" Philippians 4:12

There are certainly times when God will give us very specific direction, and this direction may call us to get out and change the world; but perhaps He's waiting until we follow His general will for our life - perhaps He's waiting for us to rejoice and trust. Let's come before Him today with a thankful and loving heart. Let's enter His presence and refuse to be taken away by circumstances which will soon fade. Let's trust Him without compromise and joyfully walk each step by faith according to God's perfect will.

- steve troxel

.....intentional

Barnabas was an encourager in the lives of Paul and Mark. We considered how Barnabas must have seen the "Christ-potential" in others and discipled them at critical seasons of their life.

Discipleship involves prayer, teaching, compassion, commitment, and the ability to lead by a Godly example; some portions are passive, while others are extremely active and intentional. When Barnabas saw how Paul was being rejected in Jerusalem, he "took him and brought him to the apostles" Acts 9:27. When he may have been concerned that Paul was discouraged; "Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Paul" Acts 11:25. And when Mark was facing rejection and almost certain discouragement for future ministry, "Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus" Acts 15:39

Each of these events involved much more than a kind word as Barnabas continued on his own path. They involved evaluating the need, and then making the necessary changes in his own path to help meet the need - they involved being intentional.

There was certainly no better example of how to disciple others than Jesus. During His ministry on earth Jesus was an example to all who saw or heard of Him. He taught large groups and ministered to individuals at every opportunity. But with a specific group of twelve, Jesus gave an extra measure of His time and energy to help them grow closer to God and equip them for future ministry.

Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated apostles Luke 6:12-13

We ought to do more than encourage when it's convenient, more than live a Godly life and hope others will follow. In Jesus, we are given a wonderful example of choosing, through prayer, individuals whom we intentionally lead closer to God. This is clearly His command when Jesus says, "go and make disciples of all nations" Matthew 28:19

I wish I could say it's easy to "go and make disciples," but it's not. And I wish I could say I'm good at it, but I'm definitely not! Getting schedules and desires to match up seems to get harder all the time, and the process can often become quite discouraging. And yet, we must not give up. Jesus showed us the way and commanded us to follow; this is the only true plan for discipleship!

Let's continue to lead through the example of a devoted and holy life and encourage those in need at every opportunity. But let's also take the next step and prayerfully identify those who will receive our special attention for an extended period of time. Let's pour ourselves into others and help them grow closer to Jesus through intentional discipleship.

- steve troxel

.....resting

Come unto me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest Matthew 11:28

Frank Laubach once said, "If you are weary of some sleepy form of devotion, God is probably just as weary of it as you are."

Walking with Jesus shouldn't bore you or drain you - it should energize you! Are you feeling burned out? Jesus said: "If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, [that I didn't give you] come to Me and I will give you rest."

Nobody was busier than Jesus.  Yet, He was never in a hurry. He had a lot more to do than you, yet He never seemed to do it in a way that severed the life-giving connection between Him and the Father, or interfered with His ability to give love when love was required. He regularly withdrew from activity to the place of solitude and prayer. 

And when His disciples returned, flushed with success, their adrenaline pumping from a busy time of ministry, He told them "Come away... all by yourselves and rest a while" . 

Mark 6:31 explains that "Many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat." Sound familiar? Constant hurry is the mark of an un-prioritized life. It's a sign that second and third things have become first things. 

We want microwave maturity. We try to exchange wisdom for information and depth for breadth - and it doesn't work. Depth comes slowly. Following Jesus can't be done at a sprint; you can't go faster than the one who's leading. So, slow down. Don't just work for God - spend time with Him!

....resting

 "Come unto me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Frank Laubach once said, "If you are weary of some sleepy form of devotion, Gog is probably just as weary of it as you are."

Walking with Jesus shouldn't bore you or drain you - it should energize you! Are you feeling burned out? Jesus said: "If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, [that I didn't give you] come to Me and I will give you rest."

Nobody was busier than Jesus, yet He was never in a hurry. He had a lot more to do than you, yet He never seemed to do it in a way that severed the life-giving connection between Him and the Father, or interfered with His ability to give love when love was required. He regularly withdrew from activity to the place of solitude and prayer. 

And when His disciples returned, flushed with success, their adrenaline pumping from a busy time of ministry, He told them "Come away... all by yourselves and rest a while" . 

Mark explains that "Many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat." Sound familiar? Constant hurry is the mark of an un-prioritized life. It's a sign that second and third things have become first things. 

We want microwave maturity. We try to exchange wisdom for information and depth for breadth - and it doesn't work. Depth comes slowly. Following Jesus can't be done at a sprint; you can't go faster than the one who's leading. So, slow down. Don't just work for God - spend time with Him!

.....encouragement

Barnabas played an essential role in Paul's ministry. He boldly introduced Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem Acts 9:27, and then searched for Paul when he fled Jerusalem to his home town of Tarsus Acts 11:25-26. After taking Paul to Antioch, Barnabas remained with him for several years while they encouraged the church...and each other.

Being an encourager was a way of life for Barnabas. His name was originally Joseph, but prior to even meeting Paul, the apostles had begun to call him "Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement)" Acts 4:36. Barnabas was able to evaluate other people according to their ability in Christ - an ability determined by the strength of Jesus and not hindered by past failures. This allowed Barnabas to see great potential where others saw only weakness, and to encourage when others had given up.

Barnabas went with Paul on his first missionary journey where they jointly proclaimed the name of Jesus wherever they went. Another young man, named Mark, began this first missionary journey with Paul but then turned back Acts 13:13. This apparent lack of perseverance bothered Paul so much that when he began his second missionary trip he refused to take Mark along.

Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus Acts 15:37-39

Barnabas saw the Christ-given potential in young Mark and encouraged him as he had done with Paul many years before. As a result, Mark matured in his ministry and faithfully continued in his service to Jesus. He ministered alongside the Apostle Peter 1 Peter 5:13, was reunited with Paul Colossians 4:10, Philemon 24, and later wrote an account of the life of Jesus - the Gospel of Mark.

The early church faced many difficulties - many opportunities for discouragement - but God used Barnabas to strengthen those who had been called to the front lines of battle. We can't all stand up and preach in front of large crowds or travel as missionaries to foreign lands, but we ALL have the ability to encourage those whom God places in our path.

The world is full of people crying out for someone to care for and believe in them. Individual lives can be changed, families can be restored, entire communities and even nations can be turned toward God, if each of us will encourage others to draw closer to our Heavenly Father, to love Him more, and to trust Him with all our heart. Let’s do our part to change the world! Let's share the love of Jesus and effectively minister by seeing others, and then taking action, as a Son of Encouragement.

- steve troxel

.....feel

Have you ever seen a hot, dusty child throw off their tee-shirt and sandals and run across a beach into the water? Have you ever seen someone who has just received good news do a little dance or twirl – totally oblivious to all around them? Have you, yourself, felt the freedom of the removal of doubts, worries or fears? If so, then you can relate to the following scripture.

“Therefore since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance, the race set before us.” Hebrews 12:1

It is only too easy, or perhaps a human reaction, to hang on to our sins. We ruminate our infractions. We question ourselves - How could I have done such a thing? Why am I having those thoughts? What is wrong with me? And on we go, digging deeper and deeper into the pit.

Instead, scripture tells us to throw off the sin that entangles us or "ensnares us". Toss it aside, never to be picked up again. Focus on the goal ahead and run for it. God has forgiven us when we confess, and He has already forgotten our sin. He is with us urging us forward in total freedom. The voice that hinders our race, that insists we are not worth it, that we have totally blown our relationship with God, is the enemy of our souls. He would have us wallow in the darkness of our sin BUT God says, “ No – You are my beloved, forgiven child. Move forward into the light.” How wonderful is that!

The next time we feel burdened by sin and dark thoughts, let’s look up. That great cloud of witnesses is cheering us on. Throw off the gloom and soar as an eagle into the light of God’s forgiving grace. That is His gift to His children and it’s ours for the taking.

- pat earl