Ancient Words

My Gospel

2009-06-29T12:04:00.002-05:00

"...in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel." ~ Romans 2:16

"Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began..." ~ Romans 16:25

"Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel." ~ 2 Timothy 2:8

On these three occasions, Paul, by the power of the Holy Spirit, wrote concerning his special relationship to the gospel of Jesus Christ. These are are not the only occasions in which Paul mentions the importance of the gospel, or his relationship to it - but these are the times when he said it specifically this way - "my gospel."

Although the gospel is not something we initiated, it should still be to us a great possession. Paul lived a life that was pleasing to God because he wanted to live - "according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust" (1 Tim. 1:11).

He also presented his work in life in this manner - "Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God." (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).

What is missing in the life of most Christians is a possessive attitude about the gospel. It is not the preacher's gospel! It is not the church's gospel! It is not the elders' or the deacons' or the teachers' gospel! Until we all have a personal relationship with the gospel like Paul had, we can in no way be a growing church.

God has chosen to spread the good news of Jesus Christ by word of mouth (1 Corinthians 1:21). Personal evangelism will never be out-dated, overdone, or unnecessary. What greater gift has man received than the gospel? What greater gift can man give than the gospel?

In order for us to give it, we have to already possess it. I am so excited about the gospel of Jesus Christ - my gospel! Are you?

"Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word."~ Acts 8:4

Giving Methods

2009-06-23T12:49:00.004-05:00

Gary and Marylyn Underwood co-authored a book entitled, "First Principles, Topical Studies for New Converts." In this book there is a section on stewardship. In discussing this topic the Underwoods mention five different methods people use as an approach to their giving to the Lord. I would simply like to mention the methods they have listed, and then add a few words:

1. The Tip Method. This method has no rule or purpose. Of course it is understood that it should be a certain percentage, and it is also assumed because it is expected. When you think about a tip at a restaurant, you recognize that tipping is a part of it. Tipping is often done out of compulsion. This is not the proper attitude for giving.

2. The Entertainment Method. The person who uses this method is only going to give to the Lord if they happen to be present, and that giving may vary based on what a person has left in their wallet or the atmosphere of the particular day they have been to worship. This method does not lay by in store. This person may give more when the singing seems better or the preacher is more enthusiastic and charismatic. It's like going to the movies, but only paying afterward if you happened to enjoy the picture.

3. The Sponge Method. This person only gives under pressure. Perhaps a sermon on stewardship may increase the sponge giver's contribution for a while - until they forget or get distracted again by the world and its financial demands. The sponge giver is the guilty giver, the giver who has forgotten too many Sundays past. The sponge giver has to be begged and bullied, and frustrates the kinder efforts of the leadership.

4. The Tithe Method. "How much do I owe? Ten percent? Ok. Here, Lord, here is your ten percent." When are we going to realize that the earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness (1 Cor. 10:26)? There is nothing that we have, nothing, that is not already God's. The tither means to do well, but needs to be careful about giving ten percent. God expects one hundred percent in everything. Perhaps we limit what people would be willing to give, by accepting the idea of the tithe! Giving is not about percentages, it is about the heart.

5. The Christian Method. The Christian Method goes beyond percentages. It goes beyond Biblical examples of accepted righteousness (Matt. 5:20). The Christian who desires to give acceptably does so willingly and totally. They are excited about giving. They are moved with love for God and thanksgiving for understood blessings. The Christian gives more and more with time. They give in faith, and they do not cut back in periods of financial struggle.True Christian giving starts with the complete and total giving of self to the will of God (2 Cor. 8:5).

There is a method to everything we do. What type of giver are you?

"But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver." ~ 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

The New American Idol

2009-06-16T08:34:00.002-05:00

A woman was overheard at a dinner party, "My husband and I have managed to be happy together for over 20 years. I guess it is because we are both in love with the same man."

When God spoke from Sinai to the children of Israel, giving them the Ten Commandments, He began by saying, "I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself a carved image--any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me" (Exodus 20:2-5). God made it clear that He was to be first place.

But today, people are in love with themselves. They seem to love themselves more than their spouses, more than their children, more than anything else on the earth. The image they worship, fashioned after a work of creation, is the one they see in the mirror.

In defining the "American Dream," 68% of adults say that it can only be fulfilled if they have the freedom to do and say whatever they want, regardless of the way their activity affects others. This is not freedom - this is plain selfishness! Freedom has with it the necessary elements of sacrifice, and the understanding that my desire to act is not going to take away the rights or freedoms of another.

People are confused about the difference between being responsible to oneself and worshiping self. Margaret Paul, Ph.D., makes the following observations about the difference between selfishness and self-responsibility:

We are being selfish when:

• We expect others to give themselves up for us.

• We make others responsible for our feelings of pain and joy.

• We get angry at others for doing what they want to do rather than doing what we want them to do.

• We consistently make our own feelings, wants, needs and desires important without also considering others feelings, wants, needs and desires.

• We believe we are entitled to special treatment, such as not having to wait in line.

We are being self-responsible when:

• We take care of our own feelings, wants, desires and needs rather than expecting others to take care of us.

• We support others in doing what brings them joy, even when they are not doing what we want them to do.

• We show caring toward others for the joy it give us rather than out of fear, obligation, or guilt.

• We have the courage to take loving action in our own behalf, even if someone gets angry with us.

• We have the courage to speak our truth about what we will or will not do, and what we do or do not feel, rather than give ourselves up to avoid criticism, anger or rejection.

Each one on us needs to work on our tendencies to be selfish. Such is a requirement of being a disciple of Christ. The only way to make God first is to get out of the cockpit. The only way to worship God is to destroy every idol in our lives.

"and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again." ~ 2 Corinthians 5:15

For the Lord

2009-06-08T10:50:00.002-05:00

"And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ" (Col. 3:23-24).

Service to the church is not only a good idea, it is a command. Christians have left the slavery of sin in order to be slaves of righteousness (Rom. 6:17-18). When a person truly obeys the gospel, they have done more than receive the remission of the theirs sins - they have given their life over to God, to do His will from the heart. This being the case, it comes upon each Christian to have not only the willingness to serve, but the correct attitude.

Paul sets forth a very good statement in to the church at Colossae, when He reminds them how service ought to be rendered. If we can learn from these simple principles, we will change the way Christians relate with one another and we will improve the overall atmosphere within the kingdom.

1. "Do it heartily." The original language of this statement suggests that we work for God with the very breath that sustains our life - that we put our soul into it. God wants us to do our best. One version suggests that this phrase means to work for God with all of your heart. This should not be a difficult request when we reflect upon Jesus. Considering all that God has done for us, and how He has saved us, to give Him everything we have is nothing more than a natural response to unfailing love.

2. "As to the Lord." Herein lies perhaps the most important thing to remember about religious labor. We are doing what we do for God! When people work in the church to be revered, respected, or recognized, they do it for themselves. When people work in the church to make sure that every person is always happy, although they show some unselfishness, they have still missed the higher mark of spiritual service. These approaches lead to pride, personality conflicts, bad attitudes, and continual disappointments. The greatest workers in the church are the people with a smile on their face, who work without complaining, and who are so happy that God has saved them that all they want to do is anything that will please God. People who do their service to the Lord will be rewarded by the Lord.

3. "Knowing." Yes, just this one word says it all. Christians know why they are supposed to serve. Christians know about the love of God that motivates them to serve. Christians also know what lies ahead when they are willing to serve. Glorifying God, helping people, and one's individual spiritual growth are all immediate benefits of working in the kingdom. The greatest feeling the Christian can ever know is that they are going to heaven. This is what "knowing" is all about. When you know where you are headed, any labor along the way is well worth your time. Knowing that God loves us, knowing that He has saved us, and knowing that heaven is closer to us everyday is what living a life of happiness and service is all about.

It is just as important to consider how we serve God, as it is to consider that we we serve God. Some of us need to get to work, and some of us need to remember why we are working in the first place.

"...not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord..." ~ Ephesians 6:6-8

4 Things You Will Never Regret

2009-05-26T08:22:00.004-05:00

Someone once said that it is better to sleep on what you plan to do than to be kept awake by what you've done. People often look into their past and have many regrets about what has been done or undone. The best way to get over past mistakes is to make some improvements today. There are some things that we can do that we will never regret.

1. Show kindness to an aged or person or a person in need. Many people agonize over a phone call or visit that they wished they had made. Opportunities pass and people leave us suddenly. When we think of others first we will always feel better about ourselves and better about our relationship with God. Doing things for others is doing something even greater for yourself.

2. Do your best. Ecclesiastes 9:10 - "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going." These are wise words from the wisest of men. The time is coming when you will not be able to give it your best shot. The number one regret statistically involves people wishing they had tried harder in school. My high school trigonometry teacher once told me that I could choose to work hard early and rest later in life, or I could rest now and work hard until I die. He was right. When you do your best you will never have to look back and think about what you might have been able to accomplish.

3. Spend time with your children. "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord..." (Psalm 127:3). The word "heritage" means "inheritance." People neglect their kids trying to leave an inheritance for them. What they fail to recognize is that their inheritance IS their children! Take a day off work sometime just to spend a day with one or more of your children. Go to their games, support their school projects, be involved in their lives. I wish I had a quarter for every time an older person has said to me about my children - "Enjoy them now at this age, they will grow up fast." If you have children in your home right now, you are one of the most blessed people on the earth.

4. Become a Christian. Agrippa was almost a Christian (Acts 26:28). So many people end up in this same state. To stand before God in the judgment having never obeyed the gospel is to have accomplished the greatest failure in human history. Paul wrote in 2 Cor. 7:10 - "For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death." When we change our minds and hearts and make the decision to be right with God, we have made the single, most important decision of our lives. Christianity gives us hope, consolation, forgiveness, peace, direction, and all of the other things in life that no other endeavor will afford us. Of all the titles one can hold, there is none greater, than "Christian" (1 Pet. 4:16).

"If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." ~ John 13:17

Imitation

2009-05-19T08:26:00.003-05:00

Bill Morgan writes - "On a wall near the main entrance to the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, is a portrait with the following inscription: 'James Butler Bonham--no picture of him exists. This portrait is of his nephew, Major James Bonham, deceased, who greatly resembled his uncle. It is placed here by the family that people may know the appearance of the man who died for freedom.' No literal portrait of Jesus exists either. But the likeness of the Son who makes us free can be seen in the lives of His true followers."

How is the world going to know who Christ? The Bible paints the true portrait. It tells us who He is and what He has done and where He now resides. The apostle John wrote near the end of his gospel - "And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book;but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name" (John 20:30-31).

Beyond the Bible, Christians have the responsibility of bearing His image as well. To be like Christ, to look like Christ in everything we do, is the highest and most noble goal of Christianity. Eph. 5:1-2 says, "Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma." Paul also wrote, "Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ" (1 Cor. 11:1).

The greatest of challenges lies before God's people. The very idea that we could be anything like the Son of God is humbling. Sometimes it seems like such an unachievable goal. But nothing is impossible with God's help. Throughout the New Testament, verse after verse commands that those who are children of God must be disciples of Christ. Peter wrote, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps" (1 Pet. 2:21).

Jesus is our example. He is our Lord. He is the one who we should walk like, talk like, and act like in everything we do. How is the world ever going to know Jesus? He is not here in the flesh anymore. There are no pictures of Him. But He has relatives that are supposed to look just like Him. He has given us the key to bearing His image.

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." ~ John 13:34-35

$100 for a Home Run

2009-05-08T09:50:00.021-05:00

Shortly after moving to Lawrenceburg, TN, I met Odus Campbell. Odus introduced himself to me in the foyer of the church building. He told me that I could easily remember his name because it was the same as the guy from the Andy Griffith Show. Odus was a kind man with a good singing voice. He loved to worship God and he loved his family. Odus passed away a few years ago but his legacy and life continues.

When his grandsons, Frank and Bobby, were playing baseball, I remember Odus made them a proposition. He told them if they hit a home run over the fence that he would give them each $100. Well, Bobby hit a home run - $100. Then Frank hit a home run - $100. Not long after Bobby's first home run, he hit another home run. So he wanted to know if he was going to get another $100! I believe Odus replied that the limit was $100 per person. But no one could blame Bobby for trying!

It is important for us to support our children and grandchildren. The legacy that Odus and Willodean, and Terry and Beth have left for their children and grandchildren is love and support. To love and support our kids should be the easiest thing for us to do. To offer them rewards for a job well done adds incentive to their work and helps them to progress and do their very best. As I consider Frank's graduation, and the others who will graduate this year, I think of the support these kids have received from important and influential people. I also believe that their continual success will depend much upon constant support and love from the people in their lives who matter the most.

God has portrayed Himself to us as a loving Father. He is a God who wants to reward us for a job well done. He is a God who believes in us, is patient with us, and who is rooting for us. He is a God that will never leave or forsake us. He is a God who will always offer us a home and shelter from the difficulties and challenges of life.

What I wish today, is that Odus could see how well his grandsons are doing. His influence reached far beyond the field of play. His deepest desire was to spend eternity with his family. His greatest legacy to his family has been his Christian life. Since his passing, Frank and Bobby have become Christians. They are good boys, who I am proud to say are members of the Pulaski St. congregation.

We have a great group of young people. They are still learning and growing. They are not going to be perfect. But they need our support and love. As they are being rewarded this time of year for what they have accomplished, let's remember that there is a heavenly reward that we want to see them realize. Let's do everything we can to help make it happen. God did.

"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!" ~ Matthew 7:11

"Hard Preaching"

2009-05-04T11:11:00.012-05:00

Recently while doing personal work, I have been reminded of a familiar phrase. Many people I come into contact with have either left the church, are struggling in their faith, or are perhaps are just not very dedicated - maybe not ever fully converted. They often tell me that they have in their past, been subject to a steady diet of "hard preaching." For some time now I have been trying to get to the true meaning of this phrase. Those who tell me about it usually give details. At this point I think I am ready to share what I have learned.

1. Hard Preaching is giving people an impossible standard.
Many feel like the pulpit has delivered to them a system of rules and regulations they can never keep. One of the reasons why folks never commit themselves to the Lord is because they are assured of their future failure. Paul said that Jesus came and delivered us from a law of this nature - "having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross" (Col. 2:14). Hard preaching offers little grace. It relies heavily on commandments and does not speak much of forgiveness. If the preacher does not offer the sinner any hope, then why would the sinner ever desire to make a change?

2. Hard preaching is harsh in tone.
Have you ever felt hated by the preacher? Have you ever been afraid of him? Have you ever wondered if his only desire was to make you squirm? Have you ever had to debate with yourself about whether or not the preacher loved you? Some preachers, in their desire to preach the gospel boldly, end up damaging their relationships with the hearers. I have heard some things from the pulpit over the years that were hard to swallow. When they were difficult to receive because of my sin, it was my fault. But when they were difficult to receive because of the demeanor and manner of delivery, it was not my fault. Jesus got angry for the right reasons. He was firm in what he taught. But mostly, He was gentle. His invitation was issued kindly - "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light" (Matt. 11:28-30).

3. Hard preaching in not balanced in its scope.
People will perceive that they are receiving negative lessons if the preacher does not preach the whole counsel of God. People need to know about the reality of hell, the consequences of sin, and the work of the devil. They also need to know about the mercy and grace of God, the forgiveness of sins, faith, hope, and love. What I have found to be interpreted as hard preaching usually has nothing to do with these subjects. It is mostly the result of a preacher who hammers away at a particular problem that he would like to see resolved - worship attendance, dedication, weak members, et cetera. I will be honest, the preacher is usually more discouraged by the church than he is by the world. But I am learning that if we are going to motivate the brethren, honey is a better tool than a baseball bat.

4. Hard preaching is in the eye of the beholder.
Some people think that any preaching that challenges their way of thinking is unkind. Other people beg for sermons that will scare them enough to get their hearts right with God. There are definitely going to be times where the preaching is imperfect. Maybe the preacher is not on his game. Maybe the lesson is poorly constructed. Maybe the preacher is abusing the pulpit to let out frustration. In spite of the preacher's weaknesses, people who know the Lord and who are familiar with His word can glean the best parts of the sermon. It is all in our attitude. The preacher's responsibility is great, but the hearer's responsibility is just as great. We are all worshiping together. We need to make the most of every minute and give the glory to God.

Hard preaching is not the goal of any preacher who has the love of God in His heart. Our goal is to preach the gospel, plain and simple. The power is in the Word. It will change men. It will break hearts. It will comfort. It will save.

"but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ" ~ Ephesians 4:15

Coming Home Again

2009-04-27T08:13:00.007-05:00

Most of the time my blog articles end up being the articles on the front page of our church bulletin. But this is not the case this week. We have an advertisement for our "Coming Home Sunday" on the front page instead. Still, I thought it would be good to reflect a little on why we have this event each year.

My grandfather, Bill Watts, has been preaching the gospel for over 60 years. He is the kindest, gentlest, most Christlike man I have ever known. He is a worker in the kingdom. He is a true evangelist. He is a self-made Bible scholar. He is a missionary. He is a personal worker. He is a man with compassion for souls.

In every place Papa has gone to work over the years, when he first arrived he found that many members had lost their way and had stopped attending the worship. He had a goal to reclaim those he could for Christ. He knew that only some would come back. He understood that people made choices daily and that many factors are involved in the exodus of some individuals and families from the worship assembly.

He gave me the idea for a "Coming Home" rather than just a "Homecoming." Homecomings are often generic welcome backs for social clubs, schools, and organizations. But a coming home is a personal invitation to people to truly have a family in Christ all over again.

Why do people leave home in the first place? Some just move away for school or occupational reasons and never come back. Some get caught up in the world and simply stop putting God first. Some have marital troubles, or family problems and they fade into oblivion. Still, some get offended by something the preacher says, the teachers teach, or they just feel unloved, unwanted, and unappreciated.

If we are going to have a Coming Home Sunday, then it is our obligation to make the local congregation in which we reside a welcoming, loving residence. We must not be judgmental, hateful, jealous, impersonal, haughty, ignorant, careless, or trite. Instead we must be humble, sympathetic, thankful, happy, kind, affectionate, loving, and concerned. We must be friendly at ALL times. We must be happy to be home in the first place. We must remember that we did not get here on our own, but only through the power and love and grace of a merciful God, do we find ourselves in a place we can call "home."

Coming Home again is always a possibility with God. May we not be the older brother who resents the prodigal. May we instead, be the loving father, waiting, looking from a far off, ready to run and greet and rejoice with the one who was dead, but is now alive, who was lost, and now is found!

"And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him." ~ Luke 15:20

Bearing Fruit

2009-04-21T08:03:00.010-05:00

One of the great passages of Scripture that often gets overlooked is found in the fifteenth chapter of the gospel of John. Jesus gives to His disciples a well-known "I am" statement - "I am the vine" (John 15:5). Within these verses there are several instructions for the Christian: 1. Abide in the vine (v. 4). 2. Continue in My love (v.9). 3. Keep My commandments (v. 10). The reader could point out several more.

Perhaps the most important statement, at the heart of the passage, is found on verse eight - "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples." A major problem with Christians is idleness. Bearing fruit is an essential part of living the Christian life. It makes absolutely zero sense when Christians do not want to work in the church. Our work is an extension of our love for Christ, and our thankfulness for God's grace that leads to our salvation. Fruit bearing is just the result of loving God back (1 John 4:19).

An oft used excuse for not bearing fruit to God is discouragement. The way we often measure success is very different than the standard God uses. People disappoint us. They question our motives. They criticize our activity. They call us judgmental when we stand for the Bible. They do not consider the work and effort and guts and hope and everything else that goes in to sowing seed. When we see a lack of results we give up prematurely. We stop abiding in the vine. We stop producing. We try to "cruise-control" to heaven. Jesus said this approach leads to withering branches that are good for nothing except being cut off and cast into the fire (John 15:6).

If you have ever done any sowing at all in the kingdom, let me remind you to think about the difference you have made. One soul. One teaching. One person growing closer to God. One life changed. One problem resolved. If all of your work has resulted in any of these things, every effort you have made has been worth it. If nothing has been accomplished in people, know that your efforts have been pleasing in the sight of God!

Bearing fruit is demanding. I have come to learn that we are going to be rejected more than accepted. I have come to learn that we will be criticized more than complimented. I have come to learn that we will be unpopular with the majority, accused, ridiculed, and challenged until we find out whether or not we really believe in God and His church.

But I have also come to learn, that when we bear fruit to God, it is the greatest human experience we can ever know. When you see the child raised outside of Christ who becomes a preacher...when you see a marriage saved...when you see a troubled young single girl with children raise leaders in the church...when you help an elderly person keep their faith on their death bed...when you see that kind of fruit the rest does not matter at all.

May 3rd is our "Coming Home Sunday." Our goal is 500! This day will be a good opportunity to bear some fruit to God. Encourage, invite, exhort, challenge, and love others like Christ loved us. Abide in vine brethren. Abide in the vine!

"Lead me to some soul today, O teach me, Lord, just what to say; Friends of mine are lost in sin, And cannot find their way. Few there are who seem to care, And few there are who pray; Melt my heart, and fill my life, Give me one soul today." ~ Will Houghton (1936)

Your Way of Life

2009-04-13T11:28:00.005-05:00

There is an expression sometimes used by people to explain behavior that goes something like this - "That is just the way I am" or "That is just the way he/she is." People do have a a way. Billy Joel even wrote these lyrics, " She's got a way about her, don't know what it is, but I just know I can't live without her." Everybody is unique and every person has a certain way they go about living their life.

But one thing each individual should keep in mind is that they are not locked into a certain lifestyle. The liar doesn't have to lie just because he has always been a liar. The same could be said for any other sin - homosexuality, hatred, drunkenness, stealing, et cetera. The fact is that we choose our way of living. We make a decision about who we are and what we believe every single day.

Since such is the case, then we can also change the way we practice our Christianity. We don't have to be Sunday morning only Christians, even if that is all we have ever been. We don't have to keep from being more involved in the work of the church, just because we have never been involved in the past. We don't have to lack zeal for evangelism, just because in our former days we have lacked the nerve necessary to save a lost soul.

What we need to do is really very simple. We need to pray earnestly that God will change our hearts and make us aware of our spiritual shortcomings. Then we need to follow up by changing our behavior and making a habit of doing the things we have always wanted to do for Christ. You can change your way of life! You can do things differently than you have done them in the past!

Peter wrote about the importance of no longer living the rest of our time in the flesh for the sake of sin, but instead, living for the will of God (1 Pet. 4:2). The point is that God has the power to not only save us from death, He has the power to change our life for today. That is a very exciting proposition! We don't have to wait until Jesus comes again to be blessed. We can be blessed immediately by simply making the choices to live for God today.

Stop making excuses for your lack of involvement in the kingdom. Stop saying to yourself that who you are and what you practice is good enough. Stop telling yourself that the way you live your Christian life is as good as you can do, because that is just the way you are.

Faithfulness is a way of life. Commitment is a way of life. Evangelism is a way of life. Humility is a way of life. Kindness is a way of life...

You can do anything you want to do. You can be anything you want to be. Nothing is impossible with God!

"For to me to live is Christ..." ~ Philippians 1:21

Running Your Race

2009-04-06T10:12:00.003-05:00

This past week I participated in a 5k race in Columbia, TN. If you have never been to a race of this sort you are going to have to try attend one some time. Even if you do not choose to run, there are many things you can learn just by observing those who do. Here are some things I learned this week:

1. You need to run your own race.
Everybody has a different stride. The end goal is the same but how and when we cross the finish line is going to vary. It was neat to see 7 and 8 year-old children run. Their legs are shorter but they don't wear out as quickly. It was great to see people in their 70's running. They, along with the disabled who ran inspired me the most. Because we are all different, there is something about our individual performance that enhances the race itself. We can teach each other. We don't have to worry about measuring up to each other. We simply need to do our personal best.
Galatians 6:4,5 - "But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load."

2. You need to stay on the track.
After training for a while to run a race it would be a real bummer to be disqualified. How many times have you seen Olympic competitors ruin four years in four seconds by not obeying the rules? Every runner at sometime has imagined that they may miss a sign or go the wrong way or get out of bounds. A well organized race is replete with well marked boundaries. You must stay on course. As Christians our path is clearly marked by the pages of God's holy word. Jesus said that the way to life is narrow and difficult, and only a few enter thereby. All of the effort we exert to get to heaven will be negated by our unwillingness to stay on course.
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 - "Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified."

3. You must push your hardest to finish.
If you want to be inspired go to the finish line and watch people finish their race. You will see determination, effort, courage, endurance, and heart. Every distance race has moments of question. Can I even finish? Am I going to collapse? Should I just give up and forget it? Then, just around the last turn and over the rise you can see it. It is the finish line. When you see the finish line, you can will yourself to do more than you ever imagined. With great joy I have been blessed to see some of the greatest people I have ever known finish their race. When they come to the point when their goal is in sight, the person they become is the person God created them to be.
Philippians 3:13-14 - "Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

If we can do these three things then we can say what Paul once said...
1. Run your own race - "I have fought the good fight."
2. Stay on the track - "I have finished my course."
3. Push to finish - "I have kept the faith."

" ...let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith..." ~ Hebrews 12:1-2

The Mocker

2009-03-30T08:06:00.019-05:00

It is a typical Monday morning. The sun is shining and the weather will be warming up to about 70 degrees. It is springtime and the grass is growing. It is going to be a beautiful day.

It is about 7:45 a.m. Having dropped off my child to school I am heading to the office. But I need to get some gas. So I pull into a local gas station and food mart. I enter to pay. Inside there are other people who are also getting their day started.

There is an expectant young mother in front of me, getting some breakfast. Another man is sitting at one of the tables by the window drinking some coffee. Still another man comes in to get a diet drink and a sausage biscuit. It seems like a typical morning, a regular day.

Suddenly, a very specific smell comes over the store . Then I carefully glance behind me and there he is. He has already been drinking. It is obvious. But he has to come in and get another bottle. He doesn't come in to buy anything else. This is all he wants, and he looks like a man who is desperately trying to get where he is going. The anticipation of his next drink is too powerful for him to hide.

This man is about 50 years old. He looks like any man you would meet and be friends with. When he leaves he does not depart by automobile. But he leaves on a old, worn out, pink bicycle. Why? I imagine he has been charged with a DUI. Or perhaps his habit has ruined him financially. He is obviously not on his way to work, or at least I hope not. But the picture is pitiful. It is a very sad sight to see.

I have heard many a debate about alcohol and the Bible over the years. Was the wine fermented? What about Jesus' first miracle? What if you only drink one glass at home before bedtime? Many more questions have been proposed to attempt to justify drinking. But let me tell you what alcohol really does...

It makes a wise man a fool. It destroys families and marriages. It leads to killing with a motorized vehicle. It manifests itself in college kids waking up in a park or a place they do not know rather than their own beds. It is a sure road to regret. It causes a middle-aged man to go to a quick mart at 7:45 am because he cannot stand it any longer before he has another drink!

Stay away from alcohol. Evil companionships corrupt good morals.

"Wine is a mocker, Strong drink is a brawler, And whoever is led astray by it is not wise." ~
Proverbs 20:1

Little Things

2009-03-23T14:39:00.004-05:00

Last time I checked, most of us just live from day to day. We may have some plans for the future, perhaps some big event is ahead. Primarily, however, we go about our business and just do the best we can.

Many people believe that in order for their lives to be great, something great must happen. They think some accomplishment will bring their life some meaning. Perhaps they believe that being known or having money or doing something that has never been done before will make them matter.

People also approach relationships this way. How does a man think he is going to win a woman's heart. Often men think they must do something amazing or prove themselves some how in a huge way. But what they fail to realize is that the little things are what make the difference.

Recently I visited a store where I always used to see a friend and member of the church. Every time I went in this store I would see her working. We would have a little chat and go on with our day. Since she has passed when I walk into that store I don't have those little hellos anymore. Going there will never be the same. You see, sometimes little things matter more to you than you think.

I believe that God is also concerned with little things. We may never give our last penny away or have our name on a memorial plaque. We may never spill our blood for the freedom of others. We may never be remembered past a generation or two. But we can worship every time the doors of the church open. We can read our Bibles. We can pray. We can put our hand on a shoulder, fix a meal, call, visit, or write a card to encourage somebody. We can give someone a hug they really need. We can congratulate people when they reach a milestone. We can let people know we believe in them. We can listen when somebody needs to talk.

I am pretty sure that being great in the kingdom of heaven has something to do with mastering the little things. I am confident that even though we feel sometimes like we have done nothing, we have done more than we could ever know.

"He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much." ~ Luke 16:10

Humility

2009-03-17T14:07:00.005-05:00

Some one has said, that the society which scorns excellence in plumbing because plumbing is a humble activity and tolerates shoddiness in philosophy because it is an exalted activity will have neither good plumbing nor good philosophy. The idea here is that neither the pipes nor the theories will hold water.

Humility is not as popular with people as it used to be. The post-modern era is marked with men and women who are pushing their way to the top. Folks want recognition, fame, and money. They want to be petted, placated, and appreciated. So it seems as though few people like the humble roles in life.

Jesus told His disciples the humble servant was really the greatest among them (Matt. 20:27; 23:11). Proverbs 18:12 reads - "Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor." We have heard "pride cometh before the fall." We have also heard that God "resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6). We should understand then, that humility is a very important part of success. Humility does not need a pat on the back. Humility does not need its name to be called. Humility knows that in doing something that is right, the very doing of it is enough. Humility carries on even when nobody else knows or cares.

George Washington Carver, the scientist who developed hundreds of useful products from the peanut, once noted: "When I was young, I said to God, 'God, tell me the mystery of the universe.' But God answered, 'That knowledge is reserved for me alone.' So I said, 'God, tell me the mystery of the peanut.' Then God said, 'Well, George, that's more nearly your size.' And he told me."

There are many thing we will never know. There are many things we will never be. But being created in the image of God and having the grace of God is sufficient for us (2 Cor. 12:9). Faithful Christians will be like Paul, who constantly humbled himself: "I am the least of the apostles" (1 Cor. 15:9); "I am the very least of all the saints" (Eph. 3:8); "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost" (1 Tim. 1:15).

Most Christians I encounter, when asked what traits they desire the most, will have in their short list the characteristic of humility. We know we need it. We know it is difficult to achieve. And we know where to get it - In Jesus Christ alone!

"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus....And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself..." (Philippians 2:5, 8)

"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up." ~ James 4:10

Disturbing Trends

2009-03-10T11:04:00.005-05:00

Parents, I have some questions for you. Do you really know what is going on with your kids? Do you know about their internet pages? Do you know what they watch on television? Do you know what music they listen to? Do you know what they do with their friends? Do you know what they are being taught in the schools by their teachers? Do you know what they are being taught by their peers in social situations? Do you know what they are being exposed to in our society as a whole?

You should know. If you are not up in their business then you are not doing your job as a parent. If you are always their friend, you have a problem. In fact, at some point you are going to have to be satisfied with being (in their mind) their worst enemy. This is how it really works in families that are going to do the will of God and go to heaven together.

These things being said, I would like you all to know what I heard this weekend from some teenagers...

I taught a class on "The Truth About Homosexuality" at a youth rally in Dexter, Mo. We discussed the Biblical passages that address this issue, and also the truth about what is really on the gay agenda and what they believe and practice. We also dealt with how to help those taken in by this sin. Afterward, some of the young people wanted to talk.

How much influence has the push for acceptance of gays and lesbians had to this point? These young people were telling me that it is common in our high schools for their friends to have BOTH a girlfriend AND a boyfriend. The mindset is to try both genders and experiment. Perhaps the young people applaud this as being "open-minded." Or perhaps they have been told so many times that nobody really knows what they are supposed to be that they actually believe it. Whatever the case, this should astonish us. This should bother us. This should make us have a sit-down conversation with our kids immediately.

We need to equip ourselves with the Biblical passages with regard to homosexuality. We need to know them so well that we can discuss them in their context with our children. We need lessons about this issue from the pulpit and in our Bible classes. We also need to listen to our kids and find out what they are having to deal with! It is a different world we are living in, a very different world than the one we grew up in.

Do not side-step the issue. If you think it won't affect you or your family, think again. We used to have to worry about what kind of person our kids would date. Many are now having to start with making sure they are going to date the right gender. May God help us.

"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites..." ~ 1 Corinthians 6:9

Missing In Action

2009-03-03T09:47:00.006-06:00

This article is for you, the church. It is aimed especially at this congregation that meets here at Pulaski St. I hope others who read it will take some good things from it that they can add to their faith.

We had snow Sunday. I was pleased that our attendance was 187, (29 better than 158), our attendance the last time we had a snow like this one. Our giving this week, by the 187 was over $6,500.00. I was also very pleased to see that, and I commend those of you who were here for giving so freely.

I am not a person who cares much about money. I never have been. While I know I need it to survive, I also know the Lord will provide. So this article is not about money. This is about our relationship with God.

The weekly contribution is a spiritual barometer with regard to the local body. It says a good deal about the relationship between the church and the Lord. What does $6,500.00 from 187 people tell us? It tells us we have a core of people who are very dedicated to the Lord. It also tells us we have about 200 people who are holding back from God. We have been averaging about $8,500.00 a week recently. Do the math. This is plain talk, my brethren. I write these things to encourage you and because you need to examine yourselves (2 Cor. 13:5).

When we come together each first day of the week, are we participating in every aspect of worship? Some do not sing. Some do not pray with the one who leads. Some are not listening to the Bible as it is read and preached. Almost everybody freely participates in the Lord's Supper (most definitely want that). And it is obvious that many are MIA when it is time to give to God.

The Bible does not prescribe the exact amount that we should give. But it does include that we should give as we have been prospered (1 Cor. 16:2). It says that will will reap what we sow (Gal. 6:7). It tells us to lay by in store (1 Cor. 16:2). And we are reminded not to give out of compulsion but to offer it freely and thankfully to God, because God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7).

This next week, I challenge those of you who were absent to give both what you needed to give last week combined with what you ought to give this week. I also challenge those of you who are not giving enough on a regular basis to pray about it and open your hearts. Finally, to those who are faithfully giving I say continue in the work that you are doing, because in due season we will reap if we faint not (Gal. 6:9).

Let's not be absent from the worship of our God while we are present in the building. God gave us His only Son that we might live. What do we own? What do we have that does not belong to Him?

"Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings." ~ Malachi 3:8

Difficult Days

2009-02-20T13:30:00.005-06:00

Life is full of seasons. When we look at this long winter we are reminded that bad weather is a part of it. In our own lives we also experience difficult days. They leave us asking questions. When will this be over? Why is this happening? What will I do? Sometimes it seems that there can be no good purpose for troublesome times.

But I am reminded of a piece of great wisdom I gleaned from a dear friend. A few months ago when Bob Markus and I visited Tom and Jean Parrish, Jean showed me a letter that she had received from her brother, Andy Brown. Within this letter I found a treasure I could keep.

Everyone in Lawrence County, TN, knows or has been touched in some way by Andy Brown. He has been involved in the baptisms, weddings, and funerals of every family in Lawrenceburg in some way over the last 60 years. I have appreciated Andy since the day I met him. He has done so much good for the church. Though in his 80's, he still drives down from Nashville on many occasions to conduct funerals and visit dear friends. He has been a great help to me in conducting funerals where he has been so much more a part of the lives of the deceased than I have been.

Within the contents of this letter he wrote to his sister, Jean, was a section I copied. I have kept in on my desk and have read it many times since. This is what it said:

This has been a difficult day; However, it is still a "Day that the Lord hath made." And if I can't "Rejoice and be glad in it," I'll try not to complain about it. When Longfellow wrote, "Into each life some rain must fall," he added, "Some days must be dark and dreary." Maybe bad days will make us more thankful for the good days.

I have learned that bad days are necessary, even though not enjoyable. God Himself has experienced bad days. Days of the corruption of the earth (Gen. 6:5). Days of His own people rejecting Him (1 Samuel 8:7). Days of separation from His own dear Son (Matt. 27:46). But on the other side of these days there is hope. Our difficult days remind us that we are not destined for them. Our difficult days remind us that there is a time coming when we shall rest in that fair and happy land.

May God help us not only to thank Him for the good days, but to praise Him for the wisdom of difficult days.

"The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord." ~ Job 1:21

Good News

2009-02-16T09:50:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I received some of the best news I have ever heard. In fact, I cannot remember receiving any better news.

When I preached at the New Providence church of Christ near Murray, Kentucky, I got to know a very special family, Jim and Sylvia Puckett. The lived just around the corner from us on Shoemaker Rd. Jim and Sylvia were older, in their 70's, and they were taking care of Sylvia's mother, Opal Shoemaker.

Opal and Sylvia were both members of the church, and two of the finest Christian ladies I have ever known. Opal lived to be 97, and Sylvia died of pancreatic cancer not long afterward. Jim was not a member of the church. He was raised a Methodist, and very faithful in his belief and practice.

Jim would attend with us with Sylvia on Sunday and Wednesday nights. Over the years, just about every preacher and member tried to convert Jim. Jim was a good Bible student and he taught classes at the Methodist church. He enjoyed our public studies and often would comment or ask questions in class.

I have great memories of this family: Eating at the catfish house on Kentucky Lake, going for a ride with them down to the old lime quarry, listening to them tell stories of ages past, cake and ice cream with them in their home on their 53rd anniversary, riding to Como with Jim to buy feed for his livestock.

I talked to Jim this morning on the phone. He is going to be 85 next Sunday. I called him because of good news. Jim Puckett obeyed the gospel yesterday. He responded to the invitation of Christ and His gospel. He was baptized into Christ for the remission of his sins. And one day, he will see his wonderful Sylvia in heaven. And we will all be together again.

There is a reason why the gospel is also called the "good news." I cannot fathom any better news I could have received than to hear that Jim Puckett became a New Testament Christian. The gospel truly is the power of God unto salvation. Praise be to our wonderful and awesome God!

"As cold water to a weary soul, So is good news from a far country." ~ Proverbs 25:25

The Power of Advantage

2009-02-03T08:17:00.004-06:00

One of the golfers on the pro tour some years ago was a pompous egomaniac with the emotional maturity of a six-year-old. He could do nothing wrong and always had a quick excuse for any loss: it was a lousy course, the other golfers were cheating, the weather was terrible, etc. As if these faults were not enough, he was also not above hustling a few extra dollars playing amateurs in cities on the tour for $50 a hole.

One day he was approached by a man wearing dark glasses and carrying a white cane who offered to play him for $100 a hole. "Why, I can't play you," the professional protested. "You're blind, aren't you?" "Yes, I am," replied the man. "But that's all right. I was a state champion before I went blind. I think I can beat you." Now the conceited one had not been doing well lately--he needed the money. Anyway, blind or not, if the guy was crazy enough to challenge him...well, why not? "You did say $100 a hole?"

The blind man nodded. The arrogant fellow continued, "Well, all right. It's a deal. But don't say I didn't warn you--you'll lose your money. When would you like to play?" "Any night at all," replied the blind man. "Any night at all."

1 Corinthians 10:24 says very plainly, "Let no one seek his own advantage, but that of the other." Another verson of this same verse reads, "Let no one seek his own good, but that of his neighbor." Throughout the Bible there are warnings against taking advantage of the weak. God warned the Israelites about taking advantage of the widow and fatherless child (Ex. 22:22-23). Paul repreatedly reminded those he preached to that he had the opportunity but refrained from exercising his advantage. Solomon stated that in time the laborer has really gained no advantage in all his doings, since everything is vanity (Eccl. 3:9).

The world we live in is so different than the abode of God. People on earth push, step on, and remove other people to get to the top. But God is just the opposite. Jesus gave up every heavenly advantage for humanity. He taught the apostles about the difference between Gentile lordship and servant leadership. He paved the way to life eternal by helping the helpless, when He had every right to destroy the wicked.

The true power that exists in advantage, is not what you can do for yourself. It is found in what can be accomplished when you lay it aside.

"For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich." ~~ 2 Corinthians 8:9

Faith of Our Fathers

2009-01-26T10:02:00.005-06:00

When I was 16 my father and I climbed a mountain. We were in Yosemite National Park. We used to live just a few hours from there and to this day it is my favorite place on earth. In the past we had hiked up in Tuolumne Meadows to various mountain lakes. But on this occasion we were headed towards Half Dome. We were not planning on going to the summit, but at least to some of the falls along the way. I knew what we were doing and why we were doing it. I knew I was going enjoy sharing the day with my dad.

Isaac once climbed a mountain with his father, Abraham. It was not a recreational journey, they were going to worship (Gen. 22:5). Still, as a teenage boy, you can imagine that Isaac anticipated the moments he was going to spend with his father. Isaac carried the wood and Abraham carried the fire and the knife. As they ascended Mount Moriah, Isaac began to wonder why they did not have an animal with them for the sacrifice.

Abraham explained to his son that God was going to provide it. What Isaac did not know is that God already had. Isaac was to be the offering. Yes, Isaac, God's gift to Abraham and Sarah. So when they had come to place of sacrifice, Abraham build an altar, laid the wood on it, and tied Isaac up on top of it and stretched out his knife to slay his son (Gen. 22:10).

It brings into one's mind to consider what Isaac was thinking. When his father began to tie him up, was he afraid? Did he ask his father why? Did he fight any? The Bible does not say. What is revealed is that Abraham drew the knife back. He was going to do it. He was going to obey God no matter what.

The rest of the story is well known to the Bible reader. God stopped Abraham from killing Isaac, and indeed a ram was provided instead. But that still leaves us with the question - What did Isaac learn?

I have climbed some mountains with my father, and I imagine you have climbed a few with yours. Some mountains are not located on maps, and cannot be scaled on foot. But life brings us tests and struggles. Our will is challenged. Our obedience is demanded. Our faith is proven. It is in the faith that we display on these mountains that we learn the greatest lessons in life.

I am certain that Isaac never forgot that trip with his father. I am certain that he learned about faithful and willing obedience. I am certain that he learned to fear God. In fact, later in Genesis, God is literally called "the Fear of Isaac" (Gen. 22:42, 53). Faith from a father was thus given to a son forever.

If you have had a father that respected and feared God, be thankful. The faith of our fathers is living still.

Faith of our fathers, living still,
In spite of dungeon, fire and sword;
O how our hearts beat high with joy
Whenever we hear that glorious Word!

Faith of our fathers, holy faith!
We will be true to thee till death.

~ Frederick Faber and James G. Walton

Planning Ahead

2009-01-19T11:56:00.002-06:00

The following story was told by K. Hughes in a book about Christian Ministry:

Some years ago a young man approached the foreman of a logging crew and asked for a job. "That depends," replied the foreman. "Let's see you fell this tree." The young man stepped forward and skillfully felled a great tree. Impressed, the foreman exclaimed, "Start Monday!" Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday rolled by, and Thursday afternoon the foreman approached the young man and said, "You can pick up your paycheck on the way out today."

Startled, he replied, "I thought you paid on Friday."

"Normally we do," answered the foreman, "but we're letting you go today because you've fallen behind. Our daily felling charts show that you've dropped from first place on Monday to last on Wednesday."

"But I'm a hard worker," the young man objected. "I arrive first, leave last, and even have worked through my coffee breaks!"

The foreman, sensing the boy's integrity, thought for a minute and then asked, "Have you been sharpening your ax?" The young man replied, "I've been working too hard to take the time."

Sometimes we are so busy going about our day that we fail to maximize our potential. Our life needs sharpening, focus, and we need to have a plan. Try the following steps every day for a week and see if they change your life:

Before you leave home for work...

1. Read a short passage from God's Word.

2. Pray

3. Take a small notepad and plan your entire day and do your very best to stick to the plan.

If we do not plan ahead our lives will never amount to much. Noah built the ark before any rain had fallen. Our only hope for salvation includes preparation, faith, and the grace of God.

"Develop your business first before building your house." ~ Proverbs 24:27

"Responsibility is the price of greatness" ~ Winston Churchill

HOPE

2009-01-13T08:44:00.003-06:00

Someone has has that there are no hopeless situations, only people who have grown hopeless about them.

It is illustrated in a true story about a town in a valley that was to be flooded due to the construction of a new dam. Halford Luccock explains - "In the months before it was to be flooded, all improvements and repairs in the whole town were stopped. What was the use of painting a house if it were to be covered with water in six months? Why repair anything when the whole village was to be wiped out? So, week by week, the whole town became more and more bedraggled, more gone to seed, more woebegone. Then he added by way of explanation: 'Where there is no faith in the future, there is no power in the present.'"

Each one of us is looking for contentment and happiness in this life. Sometimes unfulfilled dreams lead us to desolate places where hope is lost. Things don't turn out the way we had planned. Time to do the things we hoped to do runs out. Our health, our opportunity, and our ability to change our circumstances can be lost as the days pass us by.

But perhaps hope is not what we have made it out to be. Perhaps hope is only hope when things seem hopeless. Perhaps hope is merely flattery if it cannot change the future. Perhaps hope is only real when it exists in the face of nothingness.

The greatness of Abraham and his faith is explained in that he, "contrary to hope, in hope believed" (Rom. 4:18). Another version says, "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed." Hope is confident and joyful expectation in the promises of God.

In 1882, Priscilla Owens rightly penned these words with regard to hope: "We have an anchor that keeps the soul;Steadfast and sure while the billows roll; Fastened to the Rock which cannot move; Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love." Christians have so much for which to hope. Hope is our consolation. Hope is our refuge. Hope is our soon to be fulfilled salvation (Heb. 6:18).

Therefore, hope! Because there are no hopeless situations. Nothing is impossible with God!

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." ~ Romans 15:13

Sowing All Over Again

2009-01-06T11:11:00.008-06:00

January is usually a rainy season in the south. The fields are wet and muddy. The water table is recovering. The hope of spring is still several freezes away. But it is not too early to start getting ready for new growth.

A new year sparks evaluations and resolutions. Many assess the past year and consider their ways. People usually don't go into the year saying, "I am hoping to have the worst year I have ever had." They think about opportunities and challenges and they dream that everything is going to be great. They want success, and happiness, and peace. But how can they help it happen?

Our lives are like fields. They primarily contain weeds. We do not just come up producing strawberries. Sometimes we try to mow the weeds, cutting our problems down on the surface. But if we really want to bear fruit we must go deeper. We need to get under the soil. We must plow the field and sow all over again.

This year, you will bear fruit if you...

1. Plow up the weeds of anger and resentment you have and remove them from your life. Did someone hurt you? Did you get a raw deal at work? Are you unhappy about some circumstance? Are you holding something in your heart? Such weeds will dominate your field and leave little room for growth. Forgiveness is one of the main ingredients to success in life. It is an attribute of God (Psalm 86:5).

2. Plow up the rocks of idleness. Most people bear no fruit because they sow no seed. Christians are supposed to be living stones built upon the foundation of Christ (1 Pet. 2:5). But many are just cold hard rocks taking up space. Jesus explained that people cannot belong to Him of they do not bear fruit for God - "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples" (John 15:8). We cannot bear fruit alone. We need Christ (John 15:4).

3. Plow up the old, dead ground. You have to cultivate the soil. You have to add nutrients to your field. The best additive to your field comes from above. The farmer knows that nothing is better than good seed and the rain from heaven to water it. The Word of God is the seed (Luke 8:11). The rain that we need will come from God if we patiently and confidently wait (James 5:7).

"Father in heaven, thank you for today. Thank you for a new year. Thank you for hope. Be with us and help us. Help us to grow closer to you. Help us to sow all over again. Help us to glorify your name. In Jesus name, Amen."

"But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." ~ 2 Corinthians 9:6

Where the Grass is Greener

2008-12-08T09:34:00.004-06:00

If you have been married for any length of time you have had moments of unhappiness. Remember, your vows predicted it: in SICKNESS and in health, for richer or POORER, for better and for WORSE. Every marriage is going to be a struggle. Sometimes when the struggles are prolonged people began to think about getting out.

Across the fence they see pasture, that is, greener grass. They see a friend or co-worker of the opposite sex who listens to them. They see this person in all their good moments. They don't see their bad attitudes. They don't have to live with their bad choices. They don't see them when they are unattractive. They only see them in the sunshine.

If it is not another person that people see, perhaps it is the peacefulness of the field. No more fighting. No more rejection. No more animosity. Married folks began to think that no spouse would be better than a spouse they have learned to loathe. They think the peaceful field is easy. They don't see the forest just beyond the field that they must pass through later. They forget how much they need someone to hold their hand.

If you are married, I want you to know that the grass is not greener on the other side of the fence. You made a commitment before God and many witnesses that God wants you to keep. Your co-worker or close friend is not your spouse. Though different, they have just as many problems and weaknesses. If you hop the fence you will find the ground muddier than you thought it would be.

The grass is actually greener on your side. If it is not, it is because you have not cultivated it as you should. Think about it. You can only work the ground on your side. You can only plant the seed on your side of the fence. God will help you to grow what you have sown. He can change the soil. He can do what you think is impossible in your field if you let Him.

Paul wrote in Ephesians 5 that married couples are one flesh, and that they should nourish and cherish their relationship. This means submission to one another in the fear of God. This means learning to be unselfish. This means making sacrifices like Christ made for the church. This means the washing of water by the Word.

If we will search deep within ourselves and look at our spouse again in the love of our vows, we will remember where our happiness has its brightest hope. We will see where the grass in truly greener. It is greener with them alone, in God.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul..." ~ (Psalm 23:1-3a)