Chris's Bible Blog

So Others May Live

2012-01-21T18:43:00.000-08:00

I recently saw the movie, The Guardian, with Kevin Costner. It was about the Coast Guard's Rescue Swimmer program. Their moto, "So Others May Live," describes the reason behind why they put their own lives in danger on every rescue. It is a selfless, sacraficial life these men have chosen, "So Others May Live."

Jesus Christ, our Guardian, chose to freely lay His life down on the cross so, "All might live." This selfless, sacraficial act defined the reason for His life as well, "To die for our sins, that we might not perrish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

The Truth
"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)

Betrayed By A Kiss

2012-01-05T11:19:00.000-08:00

Judas, a disciple of Jesus, a friend, someone who walked and talked with our Lord and witnessed His ministry and miracles, chose to betray Him with a kiss. (Matt.26:48,49)

I’m sure we could all look back on our lives and point to some situation where we have felt betrayed. If we only knew beforehand, we could have taken steps to ensure our protection from that breach of trust.

Jesus knew of His betrayal. He mentioned it frequently (Matt.17:22, John 13:21) and even identified his betrayer and did nothing to protect Himself, even though it would lead to His death.(John 13:26) Why? Because He came into this world for one purpose, to die for our sins. (John 12:27) The “betrayal by a kiss”, was only the beginning of what He would endure for us.

The Truth
“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2)

Two Thieves

2012-01-03T16:21:00.000-08:00

In Luke’s Gospel account of the crucifixion of Jesus, he records some of the conversation between the "two thieves" who were crucified along with Jesus. One blasphemes and mocks Jesus (Luke 23:39) while the other comes to believe in Him. (Luke 23:40)

Two thieves, aware of their crimes and their guilt and just as aware of His innocence’s. (Luke 23:41) - Two thieves, in the same proximity of Jesus - at the same time - hearing and observing the same things - arrived at two different conclusions.

One thief verbally rejects Jesus for what He would not do, give into Satan and save himself and them; the other thief comes to a belief in Jesus for what He did do, die willingly a sacrificial death for all who would believe. (Luke 23:42)

Luke goes on to record the salvation of the thief who believed at death’s door. “Lord remember me when you come into Your kingdom. And Jesus said, Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in “Paradise.” (Luke 23:42-43)

End your fear of death today and be ready to move on with peace in your heart. How?

The Truth
"If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)

God's Gift

2011-12-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

Jesus came to this earth, by Gods' plan and design.
The place of His birth, marked by a heavenly sign.
A new star above, showed the place where He lay.
The Fathers' gift, sound asleep on the hay.

So innocent and pure, this gift to man.
Would soon receive, Roman nails in His hand.
He was born to die, His life He gave.
So all might live, and their souls be saved.

One day all will answer, for what they have done.
With Gods' gift to the world, His only son.
So accept His gift, and your soul you will save.
From the wages of sin, and the death of the grave.

Chris Kinder 10'

What you do with Gods' gift will determine your eternal future. By accepting it, you will find eternal life - by rejecting it, eternal darkness.

The Truth
"For by grace you have been saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is a "gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8)

A Greater Purpose

2011-12-09T16:31:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up as a child and got into trouble while my dad was at work, my mother would sometimes tell me, "go into your room and wait there until your father gets home." Boy that was a long agonizing wait. I usually found my self running different versions of the crime through my mind to determine how I might get off with a lesser punishment. One time I even stuck magazines in my britches. There was no question I was going to get it, it was just a mater of, how bad was it going to be.

When dad got home I could always hear him and mom talking before he came in to deal with me - and he always gave me a chance to tell my side of the event. But it usually ended with those famous words, "I have to punish you now son and this is going to hurt me more than it is going to hurt you." I never understood that until I became a dad. Inflecting pain on your own child for a greater purpose never feels right when your doing it.

Can you imagine how God must have felt? Our heavenly Father sending His Son to be punished for the sins of all mankind. Jesus suffered and died the death of the cross, the most painful, agonizing death imaginable. Why? Why allow it? For a greater purpose - the redemption of all mankind.

The Truth
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

Unexpected Surprises

2011-11-16T16:57:00.000-08:00

Life is always sending unexpected surprises, but praise God, nothing takes Him by surprise. He’s the master planner. Even though illness, afflictions, problems and “situations” may seem to be all around us…God still has a plan, for you, and for me.

Joseph is a prime example of life’s surprises. It took 13 years of endurance and character-building for him to fulfill this part of God’s plan. Sold as a slave into Egypt by his own brothers, betrayed and imprisoned, he must have wondered a lot where God was and what He was doing. But finally, as a prepared vessel, Joseph was placed in the highest position in the land, second only to Pharaoh, and commissioned to execute God’s plan for saving the world from famine. Joseph summed it up beautifully in speaking to his brothers: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good, in order to bring it about as [it is] this day, to save many people alive.” (Genesis 50:20)

When our situations seem to difficult to handle, we need to remind ourselves that God has a plan. He knows what we can handle and He will never give us more than that. The fact that we have a problem is a sign that we also have a promise. It’s only a matter of time before God reveals His good intentions to us. When the test is completed, we come out, stronger in faith, more useful to Him, and ready………for our next test.

The Truth
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." (Jeremiah 29:11)

Veterans Day

2011-11-11T07:52:00.001-08:00

Veterans Day began as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of fighting in World War I on November 11, 1918 at 11 a.m., known as the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Armistice Day was made a legal holiday in 1938, primarily to honor World War I veterans. The honor was extended to all veterans by an Act of Congress in 1954. In 1968, Congress approved the Uniform Holiday Bill so that Veterans Day and several other national holidays would be bumped up to a weekend to create a three-day holiday. The decision angered many veterans and the original date of November 11 was restored in 1975.

Veterans Day, a day to honor those who served in all American wars, is often confused with Memorial Day, a day of remembrance to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. This may be due to the fact that, at 11 a.m. on November 11, a combined color guard representing all military services executes "Present Arms" at the tomb of the unknown soldier, the nation's tribute to its war dead.

"We must remember that many who served in our military never lived to be called veterans. We must remember many had their lives changed forever by experiences or the injuries of combat. All veterans are examples of service and citizenship for every American to remember and to follow." -- President George W. Bush, Oct. 30, 2001

Thank you to all who made the decision to serve and have placed themselves in harms way to uphold our freedoms. May God continue to bless our soldiers, veterans and our Nation

Your Eternal Location

2011-10-28T16:29:00.000-07:00

The Bible tells us that, "it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment." (Hebrews 9:27) This means we all have that appointment - Death is a certainty. The statistics are unchangeable; 100 out of every 100 have died....which makes some people fearful of death because of the unknown - their eternal location.

The child of God knows what to expect at life's end. At our physical death, we will be changed. Our physical body will die and decay into dust because we live in corruptible bodies - but, as the apostle Paul wrote, "This corruption must put on in-corruption, and this mortal must put on immortality." (1 Cor. 15:51) We will be changed! As the bible says, "it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him." (1 John 3:2)

Jesus said, "In my house are many mansions. I go to prepare a place for you, that where I am, there you may be also." (John 14:2-3) Here Jesus is telling the believer that they will enter into the eternal existence with God.

For the the carnal man death is just as certain but, the location of eternity is different. The Bible says this concerning the unbeliever, "The angels will come forth, and separate the wicked from among the just, and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 13:49-50) Yikes! Hell is a real place and is reserved for the unbeliever. Revelation 20:15 says, "And anyone not found written in the Book of Life, will be cast into the lake of fire."

There is no escaping death nor the events that will follow for your soul. The only question is, Where will your soul spend eternity?

The Truth
"He that believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." (John 3:36)

Eternal Life Is a Gift

2011-10-18T19:30:00.000-07:00

Recently a colleague at work passed away in his sleep. It was very unexpected and caused many people to reflect on life, death and eternity.

The Bible says, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:2)

Wages are something you earn for work done – they are a payment owed to you for actions. God told Adam in Eden about the wage for eating the forbidden fruit – death (Gen 2:16-17) Just as Adam sinned, so have we all. We all deserve our wages, every bit of them. But...a gift of eternal life was given. God gave His Son Jesus Christ to die in our place for our sins. (Matt 20:28; John 3:16) Hallelujah!

All you have to do is accept the gift.

The Truth
"Brethren, we are bound to give thanks to God always for His unspeakable gift." (II Thess 2:13)

Give Us Pure Hearts

2011-09-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

When I was a young lad in Sunday School, I can remember singing the song, "Be Careful Little Eyes." Do any of you remember that song? It still ministers to me today - so much truth. It placed a seal of protection over my eyes, ears, hands, feet and mouth at a very young age every time I sang it. I just wish I would have truly listened to the words in my High School/College days.

Too many Christians are not consistent in their walks, even as I wasn't. They open their eyes, ears, hands, feet and mouth to temptation and play with it for awhile thinking they can always just ask for forgiveness...I can tell you this with all certainty, if you play with fire - you are going to get burned. If you "continue" in the flesh, no ritual can save you.

Look what Isaiah has to say about the Jews, God's chosen people. "These people draw near with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but have removed their hearts far from Me.....(Isaiah 29:13)

We may go to church, sing the songs, know and read the word. But none of this makes us the children of God - only a true relationship with Jesus can do that. He sees our hearts, He sees our actions, He knows our motives. So be careful little eyes, ears, hands, feet and mouth what you say and do.

The Truth
Spoken by another song - Give Us Clean Hands (short version)
By Chris Tomlin

We bow our hearts - We bend our knees - Oh Spirit come make us humble
We turn our eyes - From evil things - Oh Lord we cast down our idols.
So give us clean hands - give us pure hearts. Let us not lift our souls to another.
So give us clean hands - give us pure hearts. Let us not lift our souls to another
Oh God let this be, a generation that seeks - seeks Your face, Oh God of Jacob.

Blind Trust

2011-08-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

I can remember as a child growing up how much I trusted my dad. I trusted him to; hold onto my bike while learning how to ride, to catch me when learning how to swim or jumping into the deep end. There is nothing I would not try as a child, if my dad said that he would be there for me. The best way I can describe this is, “Blind Trust.”

Blind trust is a type of faith that obeys regardless of personal understanding. (Chuck Smith)

The Gospel of Matthew describes the blind faith of the Centurion in Capernaum who asked Jesus, “just speak a word, and my servant will be healed.” (Matthew 8:8) Another example can be found in Luke’s Gospel. There Simon Peter, after fishing all night and catching nothing, at the word of Jesus, let down the nets for a catch. (Luke 5:5) Because both of these men believed blindly and did not stumble at the promise of our Lord, they found success.

This is a beautiful blueprint for us to follow. In both cases faith is follow by obedience. The Centurion was told, “go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you.” He went his way and his servant was healed that very hour.(Matthew 8:13) Simon Peter also obeyed blindly (not because the request was logical but because it came from Jesus) and at His word, pulled up a net so full of fish that it nearly broke. (Luke 5:6)

What is God asking you to blindly trust Him about? Whatever it may be, I strongly suggest that you.....Trust - Believe - Obey!

The Truth
And Peter answered Him and said, Lord, if it is you, command me to come to You on the water. And He said, “Come.” And when Peter got out out of the boat, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand, and caught him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:28-31)

Paths of Life

2011-07-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding: In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path.” (Proverbs 3:5)

I can’t tell you how many times I have directed my own paths in life. That is to say, made my own decisions, taken my own actions and gone the way of Chris. Only to find myself worse off than I was. As a Christian, we are instructed to lean not unto our own understanding (wisdom) - boy could I have saved myself a lot of grief early in life - but in all our ways, acknowledge the Lord.

What does that mean? Simply to bring our Lord into every current and future decision, as we walk through life, by praying for guidance and wisdom, including asking others to pray with us and for us as we consider which direction to go next. Then, rest in the promise that, He will direct our path.

Resting and waiting for that direction is difficult. The temptation is always to jump right in and fix the path ourselves. But notice in the above verse, no time limit was mention. God did not say he would direct our path in 5 minutes or 5 days or 5 years.

Consider Abraham - a prophet of God - he did not always wait for God’s direction but made decisions in his own strength. One such decision, living closer to Egypt’s abundance instead of Canaan’s famine. Makes sense right? Except for one thing, Canaan was where God wanted him, not Egypt. (Genesis 12:10-20)

The famine in Canaan was not a punishment for sin, rather it was a test of faith. He left God's best and ran away from God's test. Real faith will always be tested. The great test is to submit and trust God, instead of running away! Abram was to choose the uncertainty of Canaan over the abundance of Egypt to past his test. Sadly, he did not and as a result, he lied to Pharaoh about his wife Sarai and lost his testimony in Egypt. He was literally kicked out of the world (Egypt) by the world!

Lost people never forget a ruined testimony! They may never remember your good works, but they will never forget your failures! What gets more air time, Peter's preaching at Pentecost, or his denial of Christ? What about David escorting the Ark to Jerusalem, or David and Bathsheba?

In looking at your decisions in life, are you camping Canaan, firmly fixed in the land of blessing, victory and testimony, or have you gone down to Egypt? All it takes to get to Egypt is a little compromise here and there and before you know it, you are miles away from the Lord. You will never prosper as long as you are not where God wants you to be!

My advise, come home, rebuild your altars and live for Jesus like He saved you to do.

Pour Into A Life

2011-06-09T16:44:00.000-07:00

Once there was a king who decided to set aside a special day to honor his greatest subject. When the big day arrived, a large gathering took place in the palace courtyard and our finalists were brought forward.

The first person was a wealthy philanthropist. This man was deserving of the king’s honor because of his great humanitarian efforts. He had given much of his wealth to the poor, building orphanages, schools and hospitals throughout the land. The second was a celebrated physician. This outstanding doctor was deserving of honor for rendering his faithful and dedicated service to the sick for many years and discovering medicines that saved many lives. The third was a distinguished judge. He was noted for his wisdom, his fairness and his many a brilliant decision.

The last person presented before the king was an elderly woman. Her manner was quite humble, as was her dress. She hardly looked the part of someone who would be honored as the greatest subject in the kingdom. What chance could she possibly have, when compared to the other three, who had accomplished so very much?

The king was intrigued, to say the least and was somewhat puzzled by her presence. He asked who she was. Then the answer came: “Well, my king, do you see the philanthropist, the doctor, and the judge over here? She was their teacher!”

This woman had no wealth, no fortune, and no title, but countless lives were helped, healed and changed through her giving.

Pray - Be Available — Share the Gospel with someone - Pour unselfishly into the lives of the people God puts in your path — and watch what happens.

The Truth
And He sat down, and called the twelve, and said to them, “If any man desires to be first, he shall be the last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35)

The Future

2011-05-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

No one knows the future - but we all know one thing, it's uncertain. We as Christians actually know something else - we know that no matter what tomorrow brings, God will be there with us. Jesus promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5)

None of us really knows what will happen tomorrow. For what is life? The Bible tells us, "it is but a vapor that appears for a short time and then vanishes away." (James 4:13-15)

The way to take uncertainty out of tomorrow and bring certainty into focus is to entrust the future to Him. Simply believe that God has a plan for your life and that He is with you through whatever comes your way.

The Truth
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled

2011-05-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

Many people today are worried, stressed or occasionally so nervousness that it just takes the joy out of their day. To take it one step further, some have chest pains, insomnia, or even heart attacks. Whether your worries are mild or chronic, Jesus Christ wants to free you of them. He wants your personality to be transformed from panic to peace.

So, what is the difference between legitimate concern and worry? Concern focuses on probable difficulties and produces action to alleviate stress. Are you nervous about the upcoming test? Then study!

Worry, on the other hand, focuses on improbable difficulties or circumstances you can't control or change. You studied for the test, but you worry, What if I forget everything? What if I fail? Worry is like racing your engine when the car's in neutral. You're wasting gasoline, putting unnecessary stress on the motor, and making no progress. That kind of unproductive behavior is what Jesus wants us to avoid.

Jesus tells us not to worry in both Matthew and Luke. He even implies that it is wasted energy - "And which one of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" (Luke 12:25)

Simply put, do not worry - Trust in the Lord.

The Truth
Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27)

It is Finished

2011-04-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

“So when Jesus received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.” (John 19:31)

During the awful three hours of supernatural darkness, the Father had to forsake Him. After enduring this unspeakable period of utter separation from God (which is the essence of hell itself), then He could finally shout "with a loud voice" (Luke 23:46), the great cry of triumph, "It is finished!". Jesus announces with these words, all our sins are washed away - All our guilt that should have been imputed to us but was imputed to Him, was taken care of. Our salvation is won, our sins are forgiven! How do I know that? How do I know that with certainty? Because the Lord Jesus Christ announced so that all could hear, and the beloved disciple could record it: "It is finished."

With this shout of victorious confidence, the Lord Jesus Christ is saying to us, and to God in our hearing, "The work that Thou gave Me to do, the mission that Thou sent Me to accomplish, is finished. It is finished!" It is a shout of victory. It is a cry of obedience, God-centered obedience, not defeat but a new beginning!

The Truth
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:1-4)

"Away With Him"

2011-04-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

“So he (Pilate) delivered Him (Jesus) to them (the chief priests) to be crucified. So they took Jesus and led Him away.” (John 19:16)

Death by Roman crucifixion was a result of the whole body weight being supported by the stretched arms. When nailed to the cross there was a massive strain put on the wrists, arms and shoulders often resulting in a dislocation of the shoulder and elbow joints. The rib cage was constrained in a fixed position, which made it extremely difficult to exhale, and impossible to take a full breath. The victim would continually try to draw himself up by his feet to allow for inflation of the lungs enduring terrible pain in his feet and legs. The pain in the feet and legs became unbearable and the victim was forced to trade breathing for pain. The length of time required to die from crucifixion could range from hours to a number of days.

The punishment of Roman crucifixion was chiefly inflicted on slaves and the worst kind of criminals. Crucifixion was considered a most shameful and disgraceful way to die and condemned Roman citizens were usually exempt from crucifixion The manner and process of crucifixion was that the criminal, after sentence had been pronounced, carried his cross to the place of execution, which was outside the city. (John 19:17) The criminal was next stripped of his clothes and nailed or bound to the cross. Before the nailing to the cross took place, a medicated cup of vinegar mixed with gall and myrrh (the sopor) was given, for the purpose of deadening the pangs of the sufferer. (Mark 15:23) Roman Crucifixion was typically carried out by specialized teams, consisting of a commanding centurion and four soldiers. It was usual to leave the body on the cross after death. The breaking of the legs of the thieves, mentioned in the Gospels, was sometimes used because Jewish law expressly forbid that the bodies could not remain on the cross during the Sabbath-day.

Jesus died this death for you and for me, that we might have forgiveness of sin - through His atonement. But the best is yet to come - He is risen.

The Truth
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

By His Stripes - We Are Healed

2011-04-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

"So, Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released to them Barabbas; but Jesus he scourged and delivered to be crucified." - Mark 15:15

The Romans would, according to custom, scourge a condemned criminal before he was put to death. The Roman scourge, also called the "flagrum" or "flagellum" was a short whip made of two or three leather (ox-hide) thongs or ropes connected to a handle. The leather thongs were knotted with a number of small pieces of metal, zinc, iron or heavy indented pieces of bronze. Bone was often added to help rip off the skin. Sometimes the Roman scourge contained a hook at the end and was given the terrifying name "scorpion."

The criminal was lashed to a flogging post which would help the "lictors" make deeper cuts into the shoulders, waist and legs. According to Jewish law (discipline of the synagogue) the number of stripes was forty less one (Deut. 25:3) however, scourging among the Romans was a more severe form of punishment and there was no legal limit to the number of blows, as with the Jews.

Deep lacerations, torn flesh, exposed muscles and excessive bleeding would leave the criminal "half-dead." Death was often the result of this cruel form of punishment though it was necessary to keep the criminal alive to be brought to public subjugation on the cross. Therefore, the Centurion in charge would order the "lictors" to halt the flogging when the criminal was near death.

The severe scourging of Jesus (1 Peter 2:24), with its intense pain and appreciable blood loss, most probably left Him in a pre-shock state. The physical and mental abuse meted out by the Jews and the Romans, as well as the lack of food, water, and sleep, also contributed to His generally weakened state. Therefore, even before the actual crucifixion, Jesus' physical condition was at the very least serious and possibly critical. (Isaiah 50:6)

After the scourging, the Roman soldiers began to mock him by placing a robe on his shoulders, a crown of thorns on his head, and a wooden staff as a scepter in his right hand. Next, they spat on Jesus and struck him on the head with the wooden staff which made Him, unrecognizable. (Isaiah 52:14)

This voluntary, loving act was only the beginning of the pain He would endure for us, as the cross still awaits Him.

The Truth
"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all." - (Isaiah 53:5-6)

Befriend Your Critics

2011-04-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Between the years 1861-1865 the United States found itself in the midst of a bitter civil war over the issue of slavery, and several other serious disagreements. By the time the North won the war nearly 620,000 soldiers had perished. There were many in the North who were so embittered that the South had dragged them into such a deadly conflict that they wanted the South to pay dearly.

At the end of the war, a group of Southerners gained an audience with President Abraham Lincoln. His gentle, kind and friendly personality quickly softened the hearts of his once-hardened foes and the Southerners left the interview with a deep respect for the man who had been their bitter enemy. Not long afterward, a northern congressman criticized Lincoln for “befriending the enemy!” He suggested that he should have had them shot for being traitors instead of welcoming them!

I love Lincoln’s response. He said, simply , “Am I not destroying my enemies by making them my friends?”

If you’re serving the Lord –- you can expect your share of criticism and disdain - even from friends and family. However, just keep praying for them and loving on them until, like Lincoln, your critics become your friends.

The Truth
When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.(Proverbs 16:7)

Outward vs Inward

2011-03-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

We've all heard the saying, "Don't judge a book by it's cover." Yet, how often do we do just that?

In the book of 1 Samuel the prophet Samuel was sent to the house of Jesse to anoint one of his eight sons as the new King of Israel. When Samuel saw Eliab, the oldest and most handsome of Jesse's sons he said, "Surely the Lord's anointed is before me."

Just as Samuel, we are often guilty of judging someone on outward appearances. But thankfully, the Lord does not see as man sees or David would never have been anointed King.

Therefore, when making decisions, we need to be sure to have the heart of God in the matter — not our own reasoning, researching and weighing of circumstances.

The Truth

Man looks on the outward appearance but the LORD looks at the heart. (1 Samuel 16:16)

There Is A Plan

2011-03-13T15:56:00.000-07:00

How often do we stop and think about Gods' work in our lives? If you're like me, not often enough. We tend to focus on life itself and not God's purposes in taking us through life. As the Apostle Paul wrote, "He who has begun a good work in you will be faithful to complete it, until the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6) Therefore, whatever we are experiencing in life, has come through Gods' hand to us, with a plan for our perfection in Him. Who are we then to question. This has been a very comforting scripture to me as I have walked through life's difficult moments.

As Christains we are encouraged to, "Forget those things which are behind and to reach forward to those things which are ahead." (Philippians 3:13) In other words, focus on the opportunities yet to come. Not knowing the "whys" in life is okay, because we know," That all things are working together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

How should we then live our lives? Once again the Apostle Paul leaves us a valuable scripture as to the more excellent goal:

The Truth
"Press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14)
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God." (Philippians 4:6)

It’s Natural To Make Mistakes

2011-03-02T16:44:00.000-08:00

Failure is never a pleasant feeling. It isn’t enjoyable to lose a job, see a relationship falter, fail a test or just plain make a mistake. But the disappointment we feel when we face defeat can be turned to joy if we look at it the right way!

Abraham Lincoln had a string of failures in his life before he was elected president in 1860. Thomas Edison failed 2000 times while trying to invent the light bulb. When asked if he was discouraged Edison replied, "No, I have just discovered 2000 ways not to make a light bulb. Now I can start over again.” Edison could have such a confident attitude because he knew that the road to success is often paved with disappointments that serve to extend the road — not to block it. Each failure brought him a little closer to success.

Living a life of victory is not about being perfect — because we are human — and will always make mistakes. The key is learning how to get up after we have fallen. It’s natural to make mistakes — but it’s supernatural to learn from those mistakes and move forward.

The Truth
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. (Psalms 37:23-24)

He is Coming

2011-02-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.(Rev.1:7)

This prophecy foretells of the second coming of Jesus Christ. Some seven years after the rapture, Jesus will return with His church to judge the earth and to establish God's kingdom. This second coming of Jesus will follow a time of great tribulation such as the world has never seen - a time of terror and devastation.

The rapture, an event that will happen in the twinkling of an eye, is for the church. It is a time when Jesus will come to gather His bride (the church) unto Himself to remove them from the terrible events of the end times - leaving behind all unbelievers. No one knows when the rapture will happen; all we know is that every sign Jesus gave to prepare us for this event, has already occurred - which means, the rapture could happen at any moment.

You won't want to be here (on earth) when God's judgment falls and the fact is, you don't have to be. Simply confess the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and belief that in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you will be saved.

The Truth
Whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:15)

Be Empowered by God

2011-02-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

When God called Gideon to lead Israel against their enemies,(Judges 7:16-19) He wanted to show that a small army empowered by God was more effective than the largest armies. But notice how they fought – without weapons that an army would normally use. They fought with shofars and lamps! They fought with weapons that the world would consider ineffective, yet triumphed mightily over their enemies. They shouted as loud as they could, sounded the shofar, and broke the vessels that held the fire so that their lamps burst through with brightness.

This breaking of the lamps of clay holds a powerful metaphor for us. If we too are earthen vessels holding the fire of God – the Spirit of God within us, then a breaking of the outer man is necessary for His inner light to burst through. Victory can come out of brokenness. Our old life of self, often called the old man, when truly crucified and broken, will give way to the release of God’s Spirit in our lives.

Let the fruit of the Spirit break through in your life. Your old life of Self has been and is being broken, as Christ’s victorious light shines through your earthen vessel, His strength and power will be poured out on you, as promised.

The Truth
The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people. (Psalm 68:35)

Praise Report

2011-02-05T10:13:00.001-08:00

Recently I became a great Uncle to baby Jak, my nephew's son. Little Jak was born about 9 months ago with a very rare heart condition, one that required two open heart surgeries by the age of 6 months. Five procedures later, Jak is still fighting for his life (in a coma now for about two weeks) and effecting anyone that comes into contact with him; parents, family members, doctors, nurses, lab techs. Everyone is drawing close to God, asking God to touch and heal him.

Knowing that God has a plan for our lives, I know He has a plan for Jak's as well. It may not be my plan or the family's plan but "there is a purpose to every season under heaven." During this difficult and trying time, please pray for healing and that the family will hold strong to God's will in all this.

I posted this back in December. Today, baby Jak is out of his coma and his prognosis for a full recovery is very encouraging. To God be the glory great things He has done! Thank you to everyone who lifted baby Jak's condition to our heavenly father who hears from heaven the prayers of his people. Please continue to lift up Jak's recovery and healing process. Blessings to you all.

The Truth
"Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth, even as it is in heaven." (John 6:10)

The Good Shepard

2011-01-28T21:35:00.000-08:00

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand." (John 10:27-28)

What an awesome promise for us as Christians. I think we can find both peace and encouragement form this verse. Peace, in that we know our soul will never perish, it will be eternally in heaven with our Lord.

Encouragement, because no one can be snatched from His hand. Even though sheep are dumb and will stray from the the safety of the flock - they will return through the voice of the Shepard.

If you know someone who has strayed from the flock take encouragement that: 1) "God knows them," they are still His sheep, 2)"they know His voice" God's spirit is still working on their heart, keep praying and 3) "He will not let anyone snatch them out of His hand." They belong to Him - and not one promise of His has failed.

The Truth
"I am the good Shepard; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own." (John 10:14)

Fervent Prayer

2011-01-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

Have you been praying for someone or something for what seems to you, a long time. Well, join the club. God is not some "genie in a bottle" ready to grant us three wishes when we call on Him. Nor is He only to be called upon in time of need. What kind of relationship would you have with someone, if you only called them when you needed something? The bible tells us in James, "the effective fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." (James 5:16) Let's look at these words a little closer.

Webster defines effective as fruitful or capable or producing a desired result. This means we must have a prayer life, that is marked by fruit. The word fervent can be translated intense, passionate, very hot - glowing. This means our prayer life should have emotion in it and not just some mundane, half hearted request. Finally, it is the prayer of the righteous that reaches God. We as Christians have righteousness imputed to us through our belief in Jesus Christ, His death, burial and resurrection. Therefore we can, make our request known to God.

It is so important to establish a fervent prayer life with our heavenly father who desires to give us all that we could ask or think. If you set aside the time to do just that, you will see the fruit of your petitions.

The Truth
Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit. (James 5:17-18)

Trust Him

2011-01-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

A. W. Tozer observes, "Most of us go through life praying a little, planning a little, hoping but never certain of anything, and secretly afraid that we'll miss the way."

If that describes our outlook on life, Tozer urges us instead to "believe actively" that our heavenly Father is providing for us in ways that bring blessings to our souls. We want to see ahead, and we worry about what's coming. Remember, we won't miss His best if we place our worries in his hands.

Our circumstances may be dark, and our faith may be dim. But we ask the Lord to light our pathway one step at a time. Tozer says this is always the challenge as we face our troubles: "God constantly encourages us to trust Him in the dark."

The Truth
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:2)

Make a Commitment

2010-12-31T09:43:00.000-08:00

Have you ever experienced someone "backing out" of a commitment? You know that feeling you get when you know you are hearing an excuse - it's unmistakable. You're disappointed, let down and sometimes even hurt. Imagine how our Lord must feel when we don't follow through with our prayer time or devotional time with Him? Oh we want to - but something else always seems to come up.

There’s a big difference between just being interested in doing something and actually making a commitment to doing it! Just being interested allows us the freedom do a thing only when our circumstances permit. But making a commitment to do that thing means accepting no excuses and no reservations — it means putting aside our distractions or fears and then moving forward till we see the end result!

As we come into a new year, let's make a commitment to spend more quality time in prayer, devotion and study time with our Lord and His word to us. As you Seek His will and direction for the coming year I know you will like the end result!

The Truth
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.(Php 3:13-14)

Gods' Gift - Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T08:12:00.000-08:00

Jesus came to this earth, by Gods' plan and design.
The place of His birth, marked by a heavenly sign.
A new star above, showed the place where He lay.
The Fathers' gift, sound asleep on the hay.

So innocent and pure, this gift to man.
Would soon receive, Roman nails in His hand.
He was born to die, His life He gave.
So all might live, and their souls be saved.

One day all will answer, for what they have done.
With Gods' gift to the world, His only son.
So accept His gift, and your soul you will save.
From the wages of sin, and the death of the grave.

What you do with Gods' gift will determine your eternal future. By accepting it, you will find eternal life. If you reject it, you will find eternal darkness.

The Truth
"For by grace you have been saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is a "gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8)

Do The First Works

2010-12-18T09:33:00.000-08:00

"Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works" (Revelation 2:5)

Tragically today many churches have fallen away from their first love. Preaching a modern Jesus that does not offend, condemn, or require a congregation to repent. Like the church of Ephesus, they have become so focused on agendas (fundraising, membership drives, etc.)they feel they can function without the presence of the Lord. However, God is not interested in the works done out of a sense of obligation but from the heart.

We as individuals can become creatures of habit - and go through the motions in our service to God out of tradition or to be seen by men. Check your motivation - keep it in the love of Jesus - do it all for the glory of God. If necessary, repent and do the first works and return to your first love.

The Truth
"Nevertheless I have this against you, you have left your first love." (Rev. 2:4)

Hold Strong

2010-12-15T08:01:00.000-08:00

Recently I became a great Uncle to baby Jak, my nephew's son. Little Jak was born about 8 months ago with a very rare heart condition, one that required two open heart surgeries by the age of 6 months. Five procedures later, Jak is still fighting for his life (in a coma now for about two weeks) and effecting anyone that comes into contact with him; parents, family members, doctors, nurses, lab techs. Everyone is drawing close to God, asking God to touch and heal him.

Knowing that God has a plan for our lives, I know He has a plan for Jak's as well. It may not be my plan or the family's plan but "there is a purpose to every season under heaven." During this difficult trying time, please pray for healing and that the family will hold strong to God's will in all this.

The Truth
"Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth, even as it is in heaven." (John 6:10)

Redeem The Time

2010-12-04T08:08:00.000-08:00

I recently read a devotional entitled, “Life Is Like A Jar of Rocks” by Darnell Fugate. In the devotional, “The Jar” represented our lives and what went into the jar, represented the priorities in our lives - specifically how we choose to spend our time.

In the devotion, the Bible teacher gave each of his students a plastic jar and asked them to fill their jars with rocks he had laid out for them. The “rocks” were symbolic of the really important stuff in their lives, things they could not live without. After discussing what some of those might be, the teacher asked his students, “is the jar full?” Too which they all replied, “yes.”

Next the students were asked to pour tiny pebbles into their jars to take up all the space around the rocks. The “pebbles” represented important stuff they could live without, but, was taking up time in their lives. Again (after some discussion about what they could live without) he asked, “is the jar full?” And once again they replied, “Yes.”

Then, to take up the space between the rocks and pebbles, the students poured sand into their jars. The “sand” represented the little things in life that can get in the way of doing something more important. After another lively discussion the teacher asked his students, “is the jar now full?” And, with a loud choral response the class replied, “YES.”

Finally, just when everyone thought all the space in their jars was completely filled, the teacher poured a cup of coffee into his - to remind the class that no matter how full their lives may be, they should always have room to minister to someone in need, even if it is just a cup of coffee with a friend.

Redeem your time by reorganizing your jar to feed your spirit - that you may be used for a greater calling. Remember, Jesus always found time to minister to others. Even during His crucifixion He found the time to minister or intercede for; His mother (John 19:26), His brother (John 19:27), His murders (Luke 23:34) and one of the thieves crucified with Him. (Luke 23:43)

The Truth
“For what is a man profited if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Matt. 16:26)

The Original Feast

2010-11-18T16:37:00.000-08:00

The original feast in 1621 occurred sometime between September 21 and November 11. Unlike our modern holiday, it was three days long. The event was based on English harvest festivals, which traditionally occurred around the 29th of September. After that first harvest was completed by the Plymouth colonists, Gov. William Bradford proclaimed a day of thanksgiving and prayer, shared by all the colonists and neighboring Indians.

In 1863 President Abraham Lincoln appointed a day of thanksgiving as the last Thursday in November, which he may have correlated with the November 21, 1621, anchoring of the Mayflower at Cape Cod. Since then, each president has issued a Thanksgiving Day proclamation. President Franklin D. Roosevelt set the date for Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of November in 1939. (approved by Congress in 1941)

As a nation, our forefathers knew the value of thanking God for all His blessings. It is my prayer that our future generations of leaders will do the same.

The Truth
"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Veterans Day

2010-11-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

Be Anxious For Nothing

2010-11-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

How often do we stop and think about Gods' work in our lives? If you're like me, not often enough. We tend to focus on life itself and not God's purposes in taking us through life. As the Apostle Paul wrote, "He who has begun a good work in you will be faithful to complete it, until the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6) Therefore, whatever we are experiencing in live, has come through Gods' hand to us, with a plan for our perfection in Him. Who are we then to question. This has been a very comforting scripture to me as I have walked through life's difficult moments.

As Christains we are encouraged to, "Forget those things which are behind and to reach forward to those things which are ahead." (Philippians 3:13) In other words, focus on the opportunities yet to come. Not knowing the "whys" in life is okay, because we know," That all things are working together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

How should we then live our lives? Once again the Apostle Paul leaves us a valuable scripture as to the more excellent goal:

The Truth
"Press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14)
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God." (Philippians 4:6)

What is Halloween?

2010-10-28T16:57:00.000-07:00

The origins of Halloween are Celtic in tradition and have to do with observing the end of summer sacrifices to gods in Druidic tradition. In what is now Britain and France, it was the beginning of the Celtic year, and they believed Samhain, the lord of death, sent evil spirits abroad to attack humans, who could escape only by assuming disguises and looking like evil spirits themselves. The waning of the sun and the approach of dark winter made the evil spirits rejoice and play nasty tricks. Believe it or not, most of our Halloween practices can be traced back to these old pagan rites and superstitions.

Halloween is a real, sacred day for those who follow Wicca. In fact, it is one of two high and holy days for them. The Celtic belief of spirits being released is current, along with the worship of Samhain (the lord of death) – both are promoted as something to embrace on that day. There is no question in my mind that to those who believe and follow the practices of witchcraft, Halloween represents an opportunity to embrace the evil, devilish, dark side of the spiritual world.

To counter the evil influence of Halloween, we need to join together and celebrate the reality of the heroic efforts of Christian saints over the evil in their day. Therefore, rather than “hide” in the face of evil, we should unabashedly and boldly create an alternative that is positive and uplifting; that celebrates good over evil and the triumph of God over Satan. We need to provide an environment that also makes room for heaps of fun while using the day as a “teachable moment” to celebrate God’s protection, provision and purpose for our lives.

Remember, there is a spiritual world filled with goodness from God and evil from Satan (Eph. 2:1-10)

The Truth
"Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them" (Eph. 5:11).

Merciful God

2010-10-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found yourself in the position of desiring a little mercy? I know I have. Whether it is a warning instead of a ticket, extra time to complete an assignment or time off to deal with a personal tragedy, we could all use a little mercy at times. Mercy is getting what we do not deserve and is administered out of compassion. While enforcing the letter of the law is delivering what we deserve, administered in the name of justice.

Jesus Himself spoke of mercy in Matthew 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.” This scripture indicates that mercy has a reciprocal effect. We will obtain mercy to the extent that we give it. Furthermore, James warns us that, “judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:13) Knowing this, we would all be well advised to be less proud and show more mercy.

Thanks be to God, for His mercies towards us, who has not administered to us what we deserve, but has shown His patience and longsuffering with our lives.

The Truth
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. For His mercy endures forever.” (Psalm 136)

Freely Trust

2010-10-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Has anyone every said to you, "Trust Me". Freely trusting someone is easier said than done. Trust is something that can only be earned through a history of relationship. It is our privilege as Christians to entrust our daily lives to our Lord Jesus Christ. He inturn gives us freedom from the worry and tension of life as we listen to His instruction.

In Matthew's Gospel Jesus said,"Come unto to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Being at ease, resting in God, freely trusting in Him, is built on the solid foundation of the promises made in God's Word. Our trust is then strengthened when we read His Word and practice trust and faith in our daily lives.

Is there something you need to turn over to God today? Do it now, give Him your burden and He will give you peace.

The Truth
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Godly Inheritance

2010-10-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

Back in my college days I remember my ethics professor asking the question, "Who would you die for?" Most of the class responded with the typical answers; family, loved ones - even a few responded - friends. But know one responded; a righteous man or a good man and certainly not - a evil man.

But God demonstrated His own love for us, in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) Just think on that for a moment - Christ died for us while we were still in our sin. Why would he do that? Simple, He loves us. (John 3:16) and He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)

His sacrifice, if we accept it, justifies us before God, brings us eternal life and a relationship of sonship (Romans 8:15) - or heir.

Our obligation, according to Paul, is to be controlled by the Spirit of God because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. (Romans 8:14) "The Spirit then testifies with our spirit that we are God's children - if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory." (Romans 8:15-16)

The Truth
He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be my son. (Revelation 21:7)

Speak Boldly

2010-10-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

In Paul’s letter to the Church in Ephesus, he describes himself — an ambassador in chains. Locked away in a prison, Paul refuses to allow his circumstances to dictate or alter his identity. He may be in chains, but he remains the Lord’s ambassador.

Can you imagine Paul chained up in that dungeon, throwing up his hand saying, That’s it; it’s over; I’m finished!?

Not on your life! Instead the apostle grows bolder as an ambassador; not intimidated or ashamed, because Paul isn’t chained in his Spirit, he’s only bound in the flesh. Remember how he concluded his letter to the Philippian Church? - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." So can we!

Don’t allow yourself to be defined by your past, or “chained” by your current circumstances. See beyond the physical with the Spirit and be an ambassador for Jesus Christ.

The Truth
Pray for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:19-20)

Be a Good Student

2010-09-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure where I learned this, but the idea has been ingrained in my mind for over thirty years in education — if you want to be a good teacher, be a good student. When Jesus lived on the earth, his disciples were called "talmudim". The Hebrew literally means “students”. “Talmudim” comes from the verb, "Lilmod", to
learn. In essence then, talmudim are learners.

Jesus, who was commonly called "Rabbi or teacher" in the biblical times can still be viewed as such by Christians today - which would make us his students. As such, we then go through a learning process with our teacher which may include testing!

Unlike our attempts to cram knowledge into our brains the night before a test in school, in the testing of faith, we cannot cram knowledge or understanding and still hope to pass. If we try this approach to learning we will simply find ourselves retaking the test, over and over again.

If we are truly His talmudim, we will study, pray and delve deeply into the challenging material at hand, to learn and absorb the lesson well, so that we are educated, transformed, and well equipped to move forward in the Lord. Jesus wants us to learn today’s lesson – so He can teach us a new lesson tomorrow!

The Truth
The heart of the prudent acquires knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. (Proverbs 18:15)

Run Your Race

2010-09-20T17:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like you were not making progress in a certain area in your life and considered quiting? I recently came accross this story and thought I would share it with you all.

Hours behind the runner in front of him, the last marathoner finally entered the Olympic stadium. By that time, the drama of the day’s event was almost over and most of the spectators had gone home. This athlete’s story, however, was still being played out.

Limping into the arena, the Tanzanian runner grimaced with every step, his knee bleeding and bandaged from an earlier fall. His ragged appearance immediately caught the attention of the remaining crowd, who cheered him on to the finish line.

Why did he stay in the race? What made him endure his injuries to the end? When asked these questions later, he replied, My country did not send me 7,000 miles away to start the race. They sent me 7,000 miles to finish it!

You may be wounded right now from an earlier fall and may feel like there’s just no way you can make it to the end - but you can in His strength - Run your Race.

The Truth
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Prophecy Conference

2010-09-16T22:08:00.000-07:00

Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa is hosting a 2 day prophecy conference Friday, September 17, 2010 from 7-9 PM and again Saturday, September 18, 2010 from 10-12 PM. Guest speakers include; Chuck Smith, Jim Richards, Don Stewart, Doug Hamp with worship by Terry and Nancy Clark. The conference is free and child care will be provided.

Calvary Chapel is located at 3800 S. Fairview Road, Santa Ana, California.

He Hears Our Cry

2010-09-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever left a phone message for someone close to you and did not get a return call right away? Or sent a text or e-mail message and.....no response. How long before you begin to wonder: did he/she received the message? Is he/she ignoring me? Has something happened, why is there no answer?

I suspect that sometimes when we pray, we think something similar has happened to God—that for some reason He isn’t there. But the Bible offers us comfort and the assurance that God hasn’t mysteriously disappeared. He is always available to us and He hears our cry.

David wrote, “Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice” (Ps. 55:17). No matter when we call on God, He hears the cries of His children and that should encourage our hearts.

The Truth
"And the righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles." (Psalm 34:17)

The Consequences of Sin

2010-08-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

The Bible teaches us that, "All have sinned and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23) And that, "there is none righteous, no not one." (Romans 3:10)

Thankfully, it also teaches us that, "God has so demonstrated His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8) Why? Because "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

While there is forgiveness of sin and everlasting life through Jesus Christ, the bible also teaches there are consequences for the sin in our lives as well.

Adam and Eve immediately after sinning, felt shame because of their nakedness, and they doubly showed their guilt by hiding from God. (Genesis 3:9-10) Moses, God's representative to the people, could not enter the promise land because he misrepresented God. (Numbers 20:12) King David, who killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife Bathsheba for his own, lost his wives and the child conceived in sin. (2 Samuel 12) King Solomon, had his kingdom torn away form him, because he followed after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians. (1 Kings 11:1-12)

Are we then immune to consequences of the sin in our lives? Absolutely not!.

For the non-believer, the greatest consequence of private, personal sin is to their own mortal soul. Ezekiel 18:4 says, that the soul that sins shall die, and Romans 6:23 tells us that the wages of sin is death.

For the born-again child of God, there is the tragic consequence of separation from God - as God has no fellowship with sin. Thankfully, God has made provision for us to return to fellowship with Him. He promised that “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

Remember that your actions have consequences! When tempted to sin, don't let your emotions overrule your intelligence or your desire to please God. Discipline yourself to consider the possible consequences of your actions. James 4:7-8 says, Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.

The Truth
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:2)

"Jesus Wept"

2010-08-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

We all know that the shortest verse in the Bible is John 11:35 - Jesus wept. However, did you ever stop to think about that short verse? He, the Son of God, wept. Scripture reveals God as an emotional being who feels—a Person. God feels. You feel. He experienced; betrayal, rejection, condemnation, torment, pain as well as; friendship, love, acceptance, joy and peace.

The bible tells us that you and I were made in His image. So, we have those exact feelings and emotions as well. The questions is, how will we handle the tough emotional times? Those times when we feel betrayed, hurt or let down. How did Jesus handle them? Jesus taught, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; (Matthew 5:44)

Boy that is tough love. I must confess, I have not done this at times. I have harbored ill feelings in my heart for people who have hurt me or my family and have gone through some very dry ground as a result. However, once I understood that everything comes to me through God's hand for His purpose and that He does not give us more than we can handle - I started resting in the tough times and began to watch His greater plan unfold.

Dear Father, thank you that you are a God who feels deeply and that you created me with deep feelings, too; help me to own my feelings and learn to express them in ways that bring honor to you.

The Truth and the Secret
"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." (Luke 23:34)

He Turns Mourning Into Dancing

2010-08-11T17:10:00.001-07:00

Last year my wife lost her brother to lung cancer. It was not only difficult to watch Don struggle with the disease but to see Lori loosing her only brother made it even more difficult. Our family found comfort in Don's relationship with our Lord and God's promise of eternal life through Jesus death and resurrection.

During these times it is normal to question, Why is this happening? Even though death is inevitable for everyone; it never fits our timing, our plans, our will. We simply do not understand - let alone know the answer to the question Why? The scriptures tell us that, His ways are above our finding out.(Romans 11:33-35)

But know this, Jesus has conquered the grave, (1 Corinthians 15:55-58) and has also promised to turn our mourning into dancing.

The Truth
Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. (Psalms 30:11-12)

Remain Steadfast

2010-07-31T10:46:00.001-07:00

Luke 24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

Knowing He was about to depart, Jesus left His disciples with a final command: stay in Jerusalem, and wait…for the promise. Of the thousands who had witnessed His miraculous ministry and heard His amazing teaching, and the hundreds that had actually seen Him after the resurrection, we read in Acts that only 120 stayed and tarried until the promise arrived. But these 120 were steadfast. They waited the full term…

What would have happened if they had left after the 4th day? Or the 6th day? Or the 9th day? They would have missed the promise and the amazing blessing that came with it. But those 120 believers stayed – they stayed and pressed in until the Holy Spirit came! By letting patience have its perfect work, remaining steadfast in His promise.

The Truth
But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:4)

Rekindle a Discouraged Soul

2010-07-24T19:23:00.000-07:00

A modern parable has been written about the tools of the enemy that I believe we can really learn from.

“Some time ago, an advertisement appeared in which the devil was putting all his tools up for sale. On the day of public inspection, each one of his tools was marked with its selling price: Hatred, Envy, Jealousy, Doubt, Lying, Pride, and so on, were each on the block. Set apart, however, from all the rest of the pile, was a harmless-looking tool, well-worn, but priced very high — it was discouragement!

Someone asked the devil, ‘why is that one priced so high?’ He replied, ‘Ah, that one is more useful to me than all the rest. With it I can pry open a man’s heart and enter, when I cannot get near him with any other tools. Once inside, I can lead him any way I choose. The tool is very worn because I use it on almost everyone, since few people know it belongs to me.’”

The enemy loves to sow discouragement — but believers have a tool much more powerful — encouragement! We can speak a word into the lives of those who desperately need to hear it: to the college student adjusting to his new environment; to the missionary who may feel alone in the harvest field; to the forgotten servants of God who labor in an obscure and difficult ministry; to the orphans and the widows; to all those who need to hear a word in due season!

Inspire one another with words of encouragement! It costs nothing, and reaps an eternal reward

The Truth
A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it! (Proverbs 15:23)

You're God's Pearl!

2010-07-18T09:09:00.001-07:00

Have you ever heard how a pearl is formed? It is truly fascinating. A foreign object, often a grain of sand, somehow makes it’s way into the tightly sealed crack of an oyster. Instead of spitting out this irritating object, the oyster covers it with layer upon layer of a substance secreted from it’s own body. After months or even years, a beautiful pearl is formed. The longer the pearl stays in the oyster, the more valuable it becomes.

What a picture of God’s mercy toward us! The Lord doesn’t spit us out when we come to Him! “We are accepted in the beloved!” God has every right to cast us out because of our sin but instead, He brings us into His body and covers over our sin with His beautiful covering!

When God found us we were nothing more than an irritation but by His grace He keeps us under His covering, so that we can be made into something value to His Kingdom! God is using our time now under His covering to conform us into His image!

The Truth
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Free Concerts

2010-07-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

Take No Glory, will be giving two free concerts this week; Saturday, July 17, 2010 from 6:00pm - 10:00pm at Calvary Chapel Bible College in Murrieta, California - Then Sunday, July 18, 2010 from 6PM-7:30PM at Calvary Chapel WestGrove in Garden Grove, California.

For more information about, Take No Glory and their ministry you can go to the link at the right on this page.

The Helpless Parent

2010-07-08T18:56:00.000-07:00

The most difficult aspect of being a father (of two young adults) is to, "Let go", because you feel helpless. It just seems to go against every instinct. We Dads, always want to fix or plan everything our way. But at some point, we must love our sons/daughters enough to let go and just be there when they call for advise or help. Like the father of the prodigal son, we welcome them back with UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. No lecture, no I told you so.

Our Heavenly Father (in a sense) can be like the "helpless parent", whose unending love is neither understood nor appreciated sometimes. However, He allows His sons/daughters to make their own decisions; despite how bad those choices may be. No matter what terrible wrong they may commit, He loves them. God is not just a “loving” God — the scripture says that “God IS love” [1 John 4:6]. When we fully realize that His love is freely given, then we will serve our Heavenly Father because of His love for us!

Likewise, when our sons/daughters realize that we love them enough to let them make their own choices, they too will fully understand and appreciate the depth of our love for them.

The Truth
This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. (John 15:12)

Let’s Plant Some Seeds

2010-07-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

If you keep a grain of wheat in your pocket, it will look exactly the same ten years from now. But place it in the right environment — some good ground, enough water — it will sprout into a living sheaf of grain!

Every kind of life requires its particular corresponding environment in order to achieve its full and predestined potential. It’s no different with the seeds of the fruit of the Spirit in our hearts!

God has readily made available to us the seeds of success. He gives us the opportunity to live a life of much fruit! A life abounding in the fruits of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith and self-control.

But here they are — just seeds — sitting in our pocket — waiting until we decide to plant them and allow them to become trees of plenty in our lives.

The Truth
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. (Matthew 13:23)

Through the Eyes of a Child

2010-06-30T17:26:00.000-07:00

One rainy afternoon a young pastor was driving along one of the main streets of town, taking those extra precautions necessary when the roads are wet and slick. Suddenly, his son Matthew spoke up from his relaxed position in the front seat. Dad, I'm thinking of something.

This announcement usually meant he had been pondering some fact for a while and was now ready to expound all that his seven-year-old mind had discovered. The young pastor was eager to hear. What are you thinking? He asked.

The rain, Matthew began, is like sin. And the windshield wipers are like God, wiping our sins away.

After the chill bumps raced up his arms, the young pastor was able to respond. That's really good, Matthew. Then his curiosity broke in. How far would his son take this revelation? So he asked, Do you notice how the rain keeps on coming? What does that tell you?

Matthew didn't hesitate one moment with his answer. We keep on sinning and God just keeps on forgiving us.

The Truth
Oh give thanks to the Lord for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (1 Ch.16:34)

Be Still and Listen

2010-06-24T11:14:00.000-07:00

“Before refrigerators, people used ice-houses to preserve their food. Ice-houses had thick walls, no windows, and a tightly fitted door. In winter, when streams and lakes were frozen, large blocks of ice were cut from the frozen waters, hauled to the ice-houses, and covered with sawdust. Often these ice-blocks would last well into the summer.

One man lost a valuable watch while working in an ice-house. He searched diligently for it, carefully raking through the sawdust, but didn’t find it. His fellow workers also looked, but their efforts, too, proved futile. A small boy who heard about the fruitless search slipped into the ice-house during the noon hour and soon emerged with the watch.

Amazed, the men asked him how he found it.

“I closed the door,” the boy replied, “lay down in the sawdust, and kept very still. Soon I heard the watch ticking.” (story taken from “Directions” by James Hamilton)

So often life can become so hectic that it becomes hard to find time to sit still and just listen to what the Lord is saying. But Jesus often secluded himself, so that He could commune intimately with His Father. In these days and in this hour it’s so imperative that we spend time in our own prayer closets, so we can clearly hear what our Father is saying to us, through His still small voice. If we do, we may find some wonderful and valuable things that others have missed.

The question isn’t whether God will speak, but whether we will take the time to be quiet and still enough to hear His voice.

The Truth
and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. (1 Kings 19:12)

Seek His Anointing

2010-06-09T18:20:00.000-07:00

Judges 14:5-6 Then went Samson down, and his father and his mother, to Timnath, and came to the vineyards of Timnath: and, behold, a young lion roared against him. And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid, and he had nothing in his hand: but he told not his father or his mother what he had done.

Judges 16:20 And she (Delilah)said, The Philistines be upon thee, Samson. And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, I will go out as at other times before, and shake myself. And he wist not that the LORD was departed from him.

Samson is a powerful example of a man of God who won his battles over and over again because the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Yet when he was finally defeated by Delilah’s temptations he didn’t realize that the Lord had left him, so effective was the woman’s spell.

The enemy is subtle and the temptations of the flesh can so quickly quench the presence and power of God’s spirit that we may not even realize it has happened. But this anointing of the Holy Spirit is our Life….and our victory. Opposition can be destroyed and burdens can be lifted when His wonderful Presence fills and rests upon us. Our greatest battle is maintaining that internal communion with Him by His Spirit. Temptations, bad habits, our sinful nature, demonic attacks, all these collaborate to rob us of this holy anointing, our communion with God, and our only real power over every enemy!

Samson’s victories vividly demonstrate the tremendous power of the anointing. His power over the Philistines was legendary. But when he lost his anointing, they nearly destroyed him. How critical it is in these days to keep our lamps burning with the holy “oil” of Yeshua’s (Jesus’) anointing. His goodness will defeat the evils around us…His light will banish darkness…His joy will annihilate our depression…His forgiveness will root out all bitterness…His love will overcome our natural hatred…and every subtle deception will be exposed by His excellent TRUTH! Seek HIS ANOINTING, the fullness of the Holy Spirit — He will equip you to break every yoke of bondage and defeat every internal and external enemy.

The Truth
He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water. This He spoke concerning the Spirit.(John 7:38-39)

He Has Overcome

2010-06-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

In this world we will face all kinds of obstacles, trials, accusations and tribulations - and we should be wary of any doctrines or teachings that say we shouldn’t have to face these things. Why? Because the Lord said we will have tribulations. You’re going to face trials, but GOD is greater than any problem you will face in this world!

As problems present themselves, we should face them in the power of God and overcome them with Him -– because every problem is an opportunity to exhibit the love and power of God in our lives. And, it’s often through these situations that the world gets our true testimony as believers in Him!

So, lift up your head and be filled with His joy, because the Lord has already overcome this world and our problems, and we will experience that when we simply give them over to Him!

The Truth
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.(John 16:33)

Ignorance of His Name

2010-05-24T18:18:00.000-07:00

Several hundred years before Jesus was born, a plague broke out in Athens, Greece. In an effort to stop the plague and appease the ‘gods’, the Athenians sought counsel from a wise man named Epimenides from the island of Crete.

When Epimenides arrived in Athens, he was amazed at the number of statues of gods the Athenians had erected, to which he stated, “Gods must be easier to find here then men!”

The elders of Athens eagerly gathered on Mars Hill the following day to hear the wisdom of Epimendies and his recommendation for dealing with the plague. So the wise man instructed the Athenians to gather at Mars Hill, bringing with them a flock of sheep, a band of stonemasons and a large supply of stones and mortar. He also commanded that the sheep be prevented from grazing the entire night, so that when they arrived the following morning they would be hungry.

The following morning, Epimenides stated, “Learned elders, you have already expended great effort in offering sacrifice to numerous gods, yet all has proved futile. I am now about to sacrifice based upon three assumptions rather different than yours.”

“The first assumption is that there is still another god concerned in this matter of the plague—a god whose name is unknown to us, and who is therefore not represented by any idol in your country. Secondly, I am going to assume also that this god is great enough—and good enough—to do something about the plague, if only we invoke his help. Thirdly, that any god great enough and good enough to do something about this plague is probably also great and good enough to smile upon us in our ignorance—if we acknowledge our ignorance and call upon him!”

Next, Epimenides ordered the sheep to be released, and he prayed, “O thou unknown god! Behold the plague afflicting this city! And if indeed you feel compassion to forgive and help us, behold this flock of sheep! Reveal your willingness to respond, I plead, by causing any sheep that pleases you to lie down upon the grass instead of grazing. Choose white if white pleases, black if black delights. And those you choose we sacrifice to you—acknowledging our pitiful ignorance of your name!”

As the sheep were released, the people were shocked when the sheep started lying down instead of grazing! Wherever they lay, an altar was erected and a sacrifice was made to the “unknown god!” The Athenians were freed from their plague, and the legend of their deliverance at the hands of the “unknown god” continued unto the time of Paul when he entered into Athens.

This amazing event became Paul’s point of departure for reaching the Athenians with the gospel of Jesus. God had laid an historical foundation to prepare their hearts for seeking and believing in a legendary “unknown god”; a god who had already demonstrated his saving power among them, but one whom the apostle had now come to identify…. and fully reveal to them!

The Truth
"Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, Him declare I unto you." (Acts 17:22-23)

Love One Another

2010-05-18T18:12:00.000-07:00

The following story is about the Seattle Special Olympics. It touched my heart and I thought I would share it with all of you.

Nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the 100-yard dash. At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish to run the race to the finish and win. All, that is, except one little boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times, and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy cry. They slowed down and looked back. Then they all turned around and went back — every one of them. One girl with Down’s Syndrome bent down and kissed him and said,” This will make it better.” Then all nine linked arms and walked together to the finish line. Everyone in the stadium stood, the cheering went on for several minutes. People who were there are still telling the story.

This is the kind of love, compassion and concern that Jesus wants us to have for one another. When we see a brother or sister struggling, we can take a lesson from these “disabled” kids — it makes me wonder who’s more disabled — and show our love. If we see someone falling, let’s turn around, pick him up and help him across the finish line.

The Truth
"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." (John 13:34)

God Uses Adversity

2010-05-11T16:08:00.000-07:00

I suppose one of the hardest questions to answer is: “Why do I have to deal with so much adversity?!”

Quite honestly, one of the best answers I’ve ever come across was written by C.S. Lewis in his book, Mere Christianity. Lewis likened God’s use of adversity to walking a dog. If the dog gets its leash wrapped around a pole and tries to continue running forward, he will only tighten the leash more. Both the dog and the owner are after the same end: forward motion. But the owner must resist the dog by pulling him opposite of the direction that he wants to go. The master, sharing the same intention, but understanding better than the dog where he really wants to go, takes an action precisely opposite to that of the dog’s will. It is in this way that God uses adversity!

We really don’t like being pulled and corrected by the Lord — but when we understand there’s a greater purpose involved, then we can pass through adversity with hope, expectation and steadfastness knowing these events are for our greater good!

We must learn from the trials and tribulations we go through because God has a purpose in them. We may not enjoy it, but enduring trials faithfully will produce perseverance, character, and hope. And hope will not disappoint us for the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit…[Romans 5:4-5]

The Truth

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28)

Testify of His Goodness

2010-05-04T19:43:00.000-07:00

An organization in Montana offered a bounty of five thousand dollars for every wolf captured alive. Two hunters decided to head for the hills and make some money capturing wolves. Day and night, they scoured the mountains and forests searching for their valuable prey. Exhausted after three days of hunting without success, they both fell asleep.

During the night, one of the hunters suddenly woke up to find that the two were surrounded by a pack of fifty wolves, their eyes flaming and teeth bared. At once, he called to his friend, “Hey, wake up! We’re gonna be rich!”

Sometimes we feel in over our heads in difficulties. They surround us like that pack of wolves preparing to pounce. But perhaps these difficulties are actually opportunities. Remember, it is through tribulations that we see God - taking each situation, one by one, and turning it for His Glory — just more opportunities for us to testify of His goodness.

The Truth
"For the LORD your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you." (Deut. 20:4)

Don't Throw Darts

2010-04-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

I recently came across this story about a young lady named Sally and her experience in a recent seminary class, given by her teacher, Dr. Smith. Dr. Smith was known for his elaborate object lessons. This particular day, Sally walked into the class and knew they were in for an interesting day.

On the wall was a big target and on a nearby table were many darts. Dr. Smith told the students to draw a picture of someone that they disliked or someone who had made them angry, and he would allow them to throw darts at the person’s picture.

Sally’s friend drew a picture of girl who had stolen her boyfriend. Another guy drew a picture of his little brother. Sally drew a picture of a former friend. The class lined up and began throwing darts. Some of the students were throwing their darts with such force that their targets were ripping apart and everyone was laughing hysterically.

Finally, Dr. Smith asked all the students to be seated. He came to the front of the class with a less-than-amused look on his face. As he began removing the target from the wall, there appeared underneath, a picture of Jesus. A hush fell over the room as each student viewed the mangled picture; holes and jagged marks covered Jesus’ face, and His eyes were pierced.

What a powerful analogy. When we “throw darts” at our brothers and sisters, friends and even strangers, we are actually piercing our Lord too.

The Truth
“In as much as you have done it unto the least of these my brothers, you have done it unto Me.” (Matthew 25:40)

Patience

2010-04-15T19:20:00.000-07:00

This story reminds me of my youth.

A mother was preparing pancakes for her sons, Kevin, age five and Ryan, three. The boys began to argue over who would get the first pancake. Their mother saw the opportunity for a moral lesson so she said; “Now boys, if Jesus were sitting here, He would say, ‘Let my brother have the first pancake. I can wait.’” Kevin turned to his younger brother and said, “Ryan, you be Jesus.” This story cracked me up, but how true is it of our lives? We want what we want and we want it now!

In today’s society fast food is making billions. It’s slogans are “have it your way” and “have it hot and and have it now”. How easy it is for us to fall into this “fast food mentality”. It has almost become who we are. But in God’s kingdom there’s no fast food. We can’t always have it our way and now. When we are caught up in this fast food mentality, we lose the true meaning of patience. True patience is the ability to wait on the Lord through trials without complaining and worrying; it is to be tested and persevere through trial.

Let’s not settle for a hamburger, fries and coke — when the Lord has a delicious, heavenly feast prepared for us!

The Truth
"Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh." (James 5:8)

Forgive One Another

2010-04-09T08:32:00.001-07:00

How many times have you said something in anger you really didn't mean? I must confess, I have. Too often, we allow ourselves the liberty to say things for which we end up being sorry about later. I hate it when that happens. And, I don’t believe the Lord is all that happy about it either.

The enemy is constantly attacking the body in this arena. Some of his most effective tactics are anger, bitterness and unforgiveness. Paul wrote that we should never be ignorant of the enemy’s schemes (2 Cor. 2:11), and our lives should be marked with love one for another….and above all things, to put on charity (agape love).

Jesus has come and has forgiven us. We simply need to forgive ourselves and others. We must base our relationships with others on the same criteria that God bases His relationship with us: love, acceptance and forgiveness. Our acts of forgiveness will set the captives free … and at the end of it all, we may realize that we were the captives!

The Truth
Col 3:13-14 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another: even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. And above all these things put on charity (agape), which is the bond of perfectness.

Move Forward in Victory

2010-04-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

Failure is never a pleasant feeling. But the disappointment we feel when we face defeat can be turned to joy if we look at it the right way!

Abraham Lincoln experienced the following list of failures before being elected to President in 1860.

1831 - FAILED IN BUSINESS
1832 - DEFEATED FOR THE HOUSE
1834 - FAILED IN BUSINESS
1836 - NERVOUS BREAKDOWN
1838 - LOST AN ELECTION
1843 - LOST CONGRESSIONAL RACE
1846 - RAN FOR OFFICE AND LOST
1848 - RAN FOR OFFICE AND LOST
1855 - LOST SENATE RACE
1856 - UNSUCCESSFUL IN HIS BID FOR VICE PRESIDENCY
1858 - LOST SENATE RACE

Each failure brought him closer to God's plan for his life, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. God knew he needed a man that had experienced tough times to lead the nation during one of its darkest hours. A man use to being on his knees.

Living a life of victory is not about having it easy, if anything, it's just the opposite. The key is learning how to get up after we have fallen. It’s natural to make mistakes — but it’s supernatural to learn from those mistakes, seek God's grace and forgiveness and move forward! I thank God for His guidance and direction in my life and for my failures, from which I have learned many lessons.

The Truth
"The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand." (Psalms 37:23-24)

Born to Die - That All May Live

2010-03-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

Jesus came to this earth, by Gods' plan and design.
The place of His birth, marked - by a heavenly sign.
A new star above, showed the place where He lay.
The Fathers' gift, sound asleep on the hay.

So innocent and pure, this gift to man.
Would soon receive, Roman nails in His hand.
He was born to die, His life He gave.
So all might live, and their souls be saved.

One day all will answer, for what they have done.
With Gods' gift to the world, His only son.
So accept His gift, and your soul you will save.
From the wages of sin, and the death of the grave.

What you do with Gods' gift will determine your eternal future. By accepting it, you will find eternal life. If you reject it, you will find eternal darkness.

The Truth
"For by grace you have been saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is a "gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8)

Wake Up!

2010-03-23T18:13:00.000-07:00

In the 1883, Captain Sampson of the British navy witnessed one of the greatest volcanic eruptions in history which took place in Indonesia. The eruption was so powerful that its shock waves traveled around the world seven times. The volcano shot miles of debris into the atmosphere which fell to earth as far away as Madagascar – over 2000 miles in distance. Captain Sampson wrote the following in the ship’s log: I am writing this blind, in pitch darkness. We are under continual rain of pumice-stone and dust. So violent are the explosions that the ear-drums of over half my crew have been shattered…I am convinced that the Day of Judgment has come.

These men witnessed something extraordinary, and it caused them to ponder the inevitable question — Is this the end? What was the crew thinking and feeling as they were deafened by the massive explosions, and blinded by the clouds of smoke and ash? To them it must have been as if the sun had become like sackcloth! Did this experience change their lives? Were they now powerfully aware of how fragile life is? Did they suddenly begin to examine what their lives had consisted of up to that moment?

We live in a world of many deceivers, of wars, rumor of wars, famine, pestilence, earthquakes. These are a few of the signs mentioned in Matthew's gospel of the coming of the Son of man. Matthew goes on to record, As the days of Noah were, so also shall the coming of the Son of man be." (Matthew 24:37) Noah lived in a morally decayed society, very similar to ours today. Therefore, Wake Up! Recognize that eruptions are already taking place, and these are the Lord’s warnings to this sleeping world; warnings that His return is NEAR! Turn to the Lord this day. Do not put it off. As Easter approaches, I can think of no better time to receive Him as Lord and Savior from the judgment that is to come.

The Truth
"Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken." (Matthew 24:29)

A Deep Intimacy With God

2010-03-16T20:11:00.000-07:00

A foreign soldier was brought before his commanding officer and accused of communicating with the enemy. He had been seen emerging from an area where their troops were known to patrol. The poor man summed up his defense in a few words, stating that he had slipped away to spend an hour alone in prayer. “Have you been in the habit of spending an hour in private prayer?” demanded the officer. “Yes, Sir,” he replied. “Well” said his commander, “never in your life have you been in more need of prayer than right now. Kneel down and pray aloud so that we all may hear you.”

Expecting cruel punishment, maybe even death, the soldier dropped to his knees and poured out his heart to God. His prayer revealed a deep intimacy with God. His earnest fluency, humble appeal for divine intervention, and very evident trust in one who was strong to deliver, told without a doubt that he came regularly to the throne of grace.

“You are free to go,” said the officer. “No one could have prayed that way without a long apprenticeship — soldiers who never attend drill are always ill at ease for the review.”

Jesus often withdrew on His own to pray,(Luke 5:16) recognizing the need to strengthen Himself against against the enemy. We too need to practice prayer in our lives, that we may be able to endure when trials come our way and stand strong against the enemy and his tactics!

Let's not be found guilty of a lack of apprenticeship but a deep intimacy with God!

The Truth
"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." (1 Peter 4:7)

To Whom Do You Belong?

2010-03-09T19:02:00.000-08:00

A well known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of two hundred, he asked, “Who would like this $20 bill?” Hands immediately started going up. “I am going to give this $20 bill to one of you but first, let me do this.” He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill up. He then asked, “Who still wants it?” Still hands were up in the air.

“Well,” he replied, “What if I do this?” And he dropped it on the ground, spit on it and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty. “Still want it now?” Surprisingly, hands still didn’t go down.

“My friends, I think we’ve all learned a valuable lesson here. No matter what I did to this money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was worth twenty whole dollars no matter what I did to it.”

Often in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, spit upon and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But here’s the truth. No matter what has happened, we will never lose value in God’s eyes. To Him, dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, we are still priceless. The worth of our lives does not come in who we are but by whose we are!

Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep and am known by My own." (John 10:14) Talk about being in, "Good Hands." We have the best life insurance possible and it did not cost us a cent.

The Truth
"And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up in the last day."

The Wise Fisherman

2010-03-01T20:23:00.000-08:00

I read this story on the Internet, and I thought I’d share it with you.

A wealthy businessman was shocked to see a fisherman sitting beside his boat, playing with a small child. So the businessman asked, “Why aren’t you out fishing?” The fisherman replied, “Because I’ve caught enough fish for one day.” “Why don’t you catch some more?” the businessman further inquired.

“What would I do with them?” asked the fisherman. “You could earn more money,” said the businessman. “Then with the extra money, you could buy a bigger boat, go into deeper waters, and catch more fish. Then you would make enough money to buy nylon nets. With the nets, you could catch even more fish and make more money. With that money you could own two boats, maybe three boats. Eventually you could have a whole fleet of boats and be rich like me.”

“Then what would I do?” replied the fisherman. “Then you could really enjoy life,” answered the businessman. The fisherman looked at the businessman quizzically and asked, “What do you think I’m doing now?”

The businessman represents a lot of people today. They have the house, the car, the career. They have money in the bank. They have everything going to supposedly live life to its fullest. But there is something still lacking. They are still lacking life. Let’s not get so wrapped up in work, that we simply forget to enjoy life – the life that God wants to give us more abundantly!

The Truth
"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that you might have life, and that you might have it more abundantly."(John 10;10)

Jesus here is contrasting what He offers with what the devil offers. The thief mentioned here speaks of the enemy of our soul, Satan. He comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. But Christ has come that we might have life and that we might have it more abundantly. The abundant life that John 10:10 speaks of is not necessarily a long life, though it may be, but it certainly is a full one. Medical science seeks to add years to our lives, but only Jesus can add life to our years.

Perfect Peace

2010-02-25T16:58:00.000-08:00

A new driver for an interstate trucking company was having a difficult time. He found the long cross-country trips extremely tiring. The older driver who traveled with him, however, seemed to thrive on those long trips. He always seemed to look as fresh at the end of the ride as he did at the beginning.

One day, the young man asked the older what his secret was. “Well, it’s really all in the way you look at it,” he replied. “While you went to work this morning, I went for a ride through the country.”

Nothing can control us like our attitude. Our focus will determine whether life is work.... or a ride in the country. When things seem unbearable remember, God will keep those in perfect peace whose minds are stayed on Him.(Isaiah 26:3)

Let’s take a ride with the Lord today and every day! He has great things to show us and teach us along the way! Rest in Him...Be anxious for nothing...for He is our peace who has broken down every wall.

The Truth
"All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast." (Proverbs 15:15)

Stand Strong

2010-02-18T19:08:00.000-08:00

A farmer and his friend went duck hunting. Eventually, they got to talking about the things of God, as they always did. “You’re always talking about these battles you have with the devil,” the farmer’s friend said to him. “It’s so silly – I mean, I’m not even a Christian and I’ve never experienced anything like that.”

“Yes my friend,” the wise farmer answered, “but if you shot two ducks — one was wounded and one was dead — which would you go after first?”

“Well,” he said, “I guess I’d go after the wounded duck – I can always get the dead one later.”

“Mmm-hmm,” said the farmer, “The devil knows you’re a dead duck.”

For those of us who are walking with the Lord today, be encouraged! Our enemy knows that we have potential to do great things for God, and out of fear, he’ll try anything to take us out. This is so very evident by the constant battles we all face.
Therefore, stand strong against the devil today! Because, if God is for us, who can be against us?

The Truth
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." (Ephesians 6:10)

Declare God's Word

2010-02-11T17:40:00.000-08:00

An elderly woman returned to her home from an evening of Church services when she was startled by an intruder. She had caught a man in the act of robbing her home of its valuables. “Stop!” she yelled, “Acts 2:38!” (Repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven).

The burglar stopped dead in his tracks and froze while the woman calmly called the police and explained the situation. As the officer was cuffing him, he asked the burglar, “Just out of curiosity, why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a scripture at you.” “Scripture?!” gasped the burglar. “She said she had an ax… and two 38’s!!”

We often underestimate the power of the Word of God! We have the source so very close — its right at our fingertips and should be right on our lips! Yet, we neglect to declare it over our circumstances, that we may see the victory!

The Truth
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)

Remove Your Plank

2010-02-03T17:19:00.000-08:00

One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother had several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast upon her brunette head. She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, “Mom, why are some of your hairs white?”

“Well”, her mother replied, “every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white.”

The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, “Momma, how come all of Grandma’s hairs are white?”

A funny story, yes — but isn’t it true that we’re always looking for someone to blame for our imperfections? The Lord warned us about the danger of pointing out the faults of others. He said that people with planks in their eyes should not attempt to remove specks out of other people’s eyes. We need to be aware of how the enemy tries to ensnare us in this way.

Lord help us to see the ways we’ve been judgmental and become people with clear vision and a gentle touch! We should be building up one another and encouraging eachother so that the work of the Lord may go forward and we may rejoice together in the blessing!

The Truth
"Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck out of your brother's eye." (Matthew 7:5)

What Are You Doing?

2010-01-28T18:05:00.000-08:00

I recently came across this story that seems to fit in this day and age.

An old mountaineer and his wife who were sitting in front of the fireplace one evening just whiling away the time. After a long silence, the wife said: “Jed, I think it’s raining. Get up and go outside and see.” The old mountaineer continued to gaze into the fire for a second, sighed, then said, “Aw, Ma, why don’t we just call in the dog and see if he’s wet.”

Boy!!! We’re so lazy sometimes - staring at the TV, computer or cell phone screen. One thing that has really been on my heart recently is, doing more doing and less thinking about doing! God wants us to be doers not sitters. He has a specific purpose for our lives at such a time as this. Let’s start giving Him our time and watch Him multiply it.

The Truth
"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed."(James 1:22-25)

God's Mercy

2010-01-21T17:49:00.000-08:00

Today my son Brian was in a car accident. One in which most people do not walk away from. Brian was side swiped on the 405 Fwy sending him into an uncontrollable slide on wet payment at 60 mph that ended with a collision into a semi. However, God's hand was upon his life and he was protected from any serious injuries.

The song, "Jesus Take the Wheel" by Carrie Underwood has been ringing in my head all day.

As parents, we take our hands off our children every day, but God watches over them. We cover them with prayer - God hears our prayers - and watches over them. He is a God that neither slumbers nor sleeps - which is something every parent can relate to - waiting for a child to come home.

Thank you Lord for bringing my son home today.....and every day!

The Truth
"The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting...." (Psalm 103:17)

Legendary coach John Stevenson Dies

2010-01-16T12:36:00.001-08:00

John Stevenson, the winningest coach in California high school baseball history who recently completed his 50th season at El Segundo, has died from an apparent heart attack, while driving Monday night in the Marina del Rey area. Longtime assistant coach Craig Cousins will take over the coaching duties on an interim basis. A memorial will be held for Stevenson on Jan. 23 in the El Segundo High auditorium.
He was 76.

Stevenson coached George Brett and a handful of other major leaguers. His wife, Gail, died in September at age 68 after a 4 1/2-year battle with ovarian cancer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends at this most difficult time.

His Strenght - Our Weakness

2010-01-15T16:35:00.001-08:00

Did you know that when a bone is broken and then heals, that previously broken place becomes the strongest part of the bone? What was weak, has become strong!

The same is true of any of our lives. The places where we have been hurt, have fallen and failed; can become the very places that will be strongest, if we allow God to heal us. How do we allow this healing? We repent before God — we ask Him to cleanse us and pour His healing mercy over our wounds.

When we are faithful to bring our broken parts to God, He will be faithful to heal them. His strength is made perfect through our weakness!(2 Cor. 12:9)

The Truth
"I am the God that health thee." (Exodus 15:26)

Be Blessed

2010-01-08T16:21:00.000-08:00

There’s nothing we can do to earn God’s love, however if we want to experience His blessings we need to observe the qualifications that He’s given us in His Word. Psalm 112 details a whole list of blessings, but the key to receiving them is verse 1.

“Blessed is the man that fears (puts his trust, honors, in awe of His majesty) the Lord, and delights greatly in His commandments. (Takes pleasure in what God says and obeys Him).”

Adopt that attitude toward Him and be assured, blessings are on the way! Your offspring will be mighty on the earth (vs 2), wealth and riches shall be in your house (vs 3), even in darkness the light shall shine on you (vs 4), you shall not be shaken (vs 6) in the midst of evil you will have no fear of bad news because your heart is set upon Him (vs 7).

Now I don’t know about you, but I want to live in the blessings of God!

Let’s live a life that God will bless, honor the Lord with our whole heart, and delight in obeying Him!

The Truth
"Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments." (Psalms 112:1)

Run The Race

2009-12-31T10:49:00.000-08:00

How often have you done any long distance running or jogging? How far can you go before you begin to feel some sort of pain or fatigue? If your like me, your mind says no problem - but your body says, what are you doing? Are you nuts?

Our Christan walk is a race, a marathon. There are times during our walk when the constant pounding of the world might wear us down - even to the point of fatigue and we may even question ourselves.

Just as a marathon runner keeps his/her body conditioned to handle the strain of such a grueling event, so we as Christians must keep our hearts and minds grounded in the word to handle the attacks of the world.

As we enter a new year, consider the following verses to help you run your race.

The Truth
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all our ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

"Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33)

"let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." (Hebrews 12:1-2)

The Typical Story

2009-12-24T14:38:00.000-08:00

The typical story we hear repeated is:

“It’s about 2000 years ago, the evening of December 25. Mary rides into Bethlehem on a donkey, urgently needing to deliver her baby. Although it’s an emergency, all the innkeepers turn them away. So they deliver baby Jesus in a stable. Then angels sing to the shepherds. Afterwards, they all join three kings with camels in worshipping the quiet, newborn.”

The problem is, this story may be almost entirely wrong. The events surrounding the birth have been retold so many times and in so many ways—in plays, poetry, books and movies—that most people have a distorted view of the true events.

Did Mary ride a donkey to Bethlehem? Perhaps, but there are various other possibilities. The Bible doesn’t say how she got to Bethlehem. It only says that she came with Joseph.

Did Mary arrive in Bethlehem the night she gave birth? The Bible does not suggest this. They could have arrived weeks earlier. God’s Word simply states, “while they were there [in Bethlehem], the days were accomplished that she should be delivered” (Luke 2:6). Arriving in town well before her due date would make more sense.

Did Joseph or Mary talk to any innkeepers? Perhaps, but there is no solid, biblical reason to believe that they did. Although innkeepers play a prominent part in many Christmas plays, no innkeeper is actually mentioned in the biblical record of Christ’s birth. Furthermore, it is likely that Mary and Joseph actually stayed in a house with relatives, not behind some kind of Bible-times hotel.

Was Jesus born in a stable? Or a barn? Or a cave? The Bible does not mention any of these three places in connection with Christ’s birth, only a manger. Scripture simply reports that they laid Jesus in a manger because there was no room for him in the guest room. The Greek word used in Scripture is kataluma, and can mean guest chamber, lodging place or inn. The only other time this word was used in the New Testament, it means a furnished, large, upper story room within a private house. It is translated guest chamber, not inn (Mark 14:14-15). According to our Bible archaeology experts, Jesus was probably born in the house of relatives, but outside (under) the normal living and guest quarters.

Were angels present at the birth? It seems logical to assume that they were, however, Scripture does not report it, and there is no evidence that angels were visible to Mary and Joseph at this time. However we know they did announce His birth.

Did angels sing to the shepherds outside of Bethlehem? Perhaps, but the Bible doesn’t specifically say that the angels sang. It says that first an angel appeared and spoke, and then appeared “a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:” (Luke 2:13).

Did three kings riding camels come to Jesus’ birth? The Bible does not say that any kings or camels visited young Jesus. It does report wise men (“magi”) came, but it does not say how many. None of the early Church Fathers, suggested the magi were kings. Since the word “magi” used in the Bible is plural, there were apparently at least two, and there could have been more—even several more. The Bible simply mentions three costly gifts they presented—gold, frankincense and myrrh, but this does not necessarily indicate the number of magi. There is also no proof of what country these men came from. Also, the wise men clearly did not visit Jesus when he was still lying in the manger, as is commonly shown on greeting cards and in plays. The magi did not arrive until sometime after Christ’s presentation in the Temple in Jerusalem. Scripture calls Jesus a “child,” not a “baby.” It is possible that little Jesus was walking and talking by then. Based on the calculations of King Herod and the magi (Matthew 2:16), Jesus could have been two years old or under.

Was Jesus born on December 25, or in December at all? Although it’s not impossible, it seems unlikely. The Bible does not specify a date or month. One problem with December is that it would be unusual for shepherds to be “abiding in the field” at this cold time of year when fields were unproductive. The normal practice was to keep the flocks in the fields from Spring to Autumn. Also, winter would likely be an especially difficult time for pregnant Mary to travel the long distance from Nazareth to Bethlehem (70 miles).

The only accurate record of Jesus birth is found in the Holy Bible, God’s Word to man.

The Truth
Luke 2:1-20

Shalom - Peace Be With You

2009-12-19T10:07:00.000-08:00

Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Sar Shalom, in Hebrew). You may have already known that the word “shalom” means peace. But actually, it has several meanings in the Hebrew. Shalom means peace, completeness, prosperity, safety, contentment, health, blessing, and rest — and not only that. Shalom is the common word for hello and goodbye.

So, when you greet someone or bid them a farewell “shalom”, what you are actually doing is speaking all those blessings upon them — and really, speaking over them the ultimate peace, Jesus, Himself!

‘Tis the season to speak shalom over one another!

The Truth
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)

"3rd Time's A Charm

2009-12-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

You won't want to miss this heartwarming musical comedy for the whole family.

"3rd Time's A Charm" is about searching, desiring, needing something that somehow always eludes us- staying just out of our reach- until we finally give up the search altogether and surrender our lives to Jesus. Then and only then, will we find what we were really searching for all along.

Three performances left, Friday, Saturday December 11, 12 @ 7:30PM and a Saturday matinee @ 2:00PM. Admission is free, main Sanctuary Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa - 3800 S. Fairview - Santa Ana, California.

Being a Man of Integrity

2009-12-05T00:13:00.001-08:00

Bobby Jones was one of the greatest golfers to ever compete, uniquely known for winning the “Grand Slam” of golf winning all four major tournaments in the U.S. and Britain in a single year. In 1925, early in his career, having reached the final playoff in the U.S. Open, at a certain point in the match, Jones was setting up to strike his ball which was in the rough just off the fairway. His iron accidentally touched the ball. He immediately became angry with himself, turned to the marshals, and called a penalty on himself.

But the marshals had not seen the ball move, so they left the decision to Jones, whether to invoke the penalty — a two-stroke penalty. Bobby called the penalty on himself, not knowing that he would lose the tournament by a single stroke.

When praised for his honesty, he replied, “You may as well praise a man for not robbing a bank!” Jones may have lost the tournament, but his character was legendary and today the United States Golf Association’s award for sportsmanship is known as the “Bobby Jones Award.”

Every day we’re faced with decisions — many of which are made when no one is watching, at least no one we can see. But let’s purpose in our hearts to do the right thing — because character truly counts.

The Truth
"The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them." (Proverbs 11:3)

Giving Thanks To God

2009-11-25T20:55:00.000-08:00

Scottish minister Alexander Whyte was known for his uplifting prayers in the pulpit. He always found something for which to be grateful. One Sunday morning the weather was so gloomy that one church member thought to himself, “Certainly the preacher won’t think of anything for which to thank the Lord on a wretched day like this.” Much to his surprise, however, Whyte began by praying, “We thank Thee, O God, that it is not always like this.”

You see, there is always a way to thank God, even in the worst of circumstances.

The Truth
"But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
(1 Corinthians 15:57)

"It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favors." –George Washington, Thanksgiving Proclamation, 3 October 1789

Stay The Course

2009-11-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

Life is always sending unexpected surprises, but praise God, nothing takes Him by surprise. He’s the master planner. Even though family or friends may let us down; illness, afflictions, problems and “situations” may seem to be all around us…God still has a plan, for you, and for me.

Joseph is a prime example of life’s surprises. It took 13 years of endurance and character-building for him to fulfill this part of God’s plan. Sold as a slave into Egypt by his own brothers, betrayed and imprisoned, he must have wondered a lot where God was and what He was doing. But finally, as a prepared vessel, Joseph was placed in the highest position in the land, second only to Pharaoh, and commissioned to execute God’s plan for saving the world from famine. Joseph summed it up beautifully in speaking to his brothers: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good, in order to bring it about as [it is] this day, to save many people alive.” (Genesis 50:20)

When our situations seem to difficult to handle, we need to remind ourselves that God has a plan. He knows what we can handle and He will never give us more than that. The fact that we have a problem is a sign that we also have a promise. It’s only a matter of time before God reveals His good intentions to us. When the test is completed, we come out, stronger in faith, more useful to Him, and ready………for our next test.

The Truth
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." (Jeremiah 29:11)

Veterans Day Celebration

2009-11-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

Steven Curtis Chapman is coming to Harvest!

2009-11-04T21:34:00.000-08:00

November 4th, 2009 Posted in Pastor Greg Laurie's Blog:

Yes, it’s true, legendary Christian artist Steven Curtis Chapman is coming to perform at Harvest Christian Fellowship on Sunday, November 15, at 6:00 P.M. This will not be just a concert, however. It will be a very special event.

We are calling it, "A Night of Hope." Steven will perform songs from his brand new CD Beauty Will Rise, and I will share thoughts from Scripture on the topics of tragedy, suffering, hope, and heaven.

As you may know, both Steven and I share a common bond of having our children go to be with the Lord in 2008. But out of our pain, we will offer hope and encouragement to any person who is hurting. The holidays are hard for some. For many, the holiday season can be a difficult time.

Some people have loved ones who have passed on this year. For others, their struggles with failing health, broken families, and other trials seem to be amplified in the Christmas season. That is why this event is so significant.

You need to get or download Steven’s new CD Beauty Will Rise. I have never heard anything quite like it. These songs have weight and substance and will touch your heart and mind. Steven and I will talk together about the hope we have found in our relationship with Jesus Christ, in spite of the unspeakable tragedies we both have had to face.

This special event will not be ticketed. It is free to the public on a first-come, first-seated basis. I suggest you arrive early and join us for an event that I believe will bring a much-needed message of encouragement to many who need to hear it. I also think that this will be a great event to bring a non-believing friend to, also. So pass the word, and I will see you there!

P.S. If you are unable to make it, we will also stream A Night of Hope live at harvest.org.

Should you and I be involved in the celebration of Halloween?

2009-10-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

The origins of Halloween are Celtic in tradition and have to do with observing the end of summer sacrifices to gods in Druidic tradition. In what is now Britain and France, it was the beginning of the Celtic year, and they believed Samhain, the lord of death, sent evil spirits abroad to attack humans, who could escape only by assuming disguises and looking like evil spirits themselves. The waning of the sun and the approach of dark winter made the evil spirits rejoice and play nasty tricks. Believe it or not, most of our Halloween practices can be traced back to these old pagan rites and superstitions.

Halloween is a real, sacred day for those who follow Wicca. In fact, it is one of two high and holy days for them. The Celtic belief of spirits being released is current, along with the worship of Samhain (the lord of death) – both are promoted as something to embrace on that day. There is no question in my mind that to those who believe and follow the practices of witchcraft, Halloween represents an opportunity to embrace the evil, devilish, dark side of the spiritual world.

To counter the evil influence of Halloween, we need to join together and celebrate the reality of the heroic efforts of Christian saints over the evil in their day. Therefore, rather than “hide” in the face of evil, we should unabashedly and boldly create an alternative that is positive and uplifting; that celebrates good over evil and the triumph of God over Satan. We need to provide an environment that also makes room for heaps of fun while using the day as a “teachable moment” to celebrate God’s protection, provision and purpose for our lives.

Should you and I then be involved in halloween? Christians should be teaching their children (age appropriately) that:

1) there is a spiritual world filled with goodness from God and evil from Satan (Eph. 2:1-10); 2) life with Christ has power over darkness (I John 4:4) and 3)those who celebrate Halloween either are unaware of its roots, or are intentionally promoting a world where evil is lauded and viewed as an ultimate power.

The Truth
"Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them" (Eph. 5:11). "Abstain from all appearances of evil" (1 Thes. 5:22). "Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Do You Fear Witnessing?

2009-10-21T16:54:00.000-07:00

Wiersbes, Wycliffe Handbook of Preaching & Preachers, quotes: “Millions of surveys which we have helped to take around the world indicate that approximately 98 percent of the Christians do not regularly introduce others to the Savior.”

In a survey given to those attending training sessions for a Billy Graham crusade in Detroit, attendees were asked to answer this question by checking one of the following answers. “What is your greatest hindrance in witnessing?” 0% said they don’t care. 9% said they were too busy to remember to do it. 12% said their own lives were not speaking as they should. 28% felt the lack of real information to share and 51% feared the reactions of those with whom they might share.

If we truly believe that Jesus is the only way to eternal life, why aren’t we spreading the word? Maybe we don’t really believe that. I guess no one thought to include that reason on Billy’s survey.

Do we truly believe in heaven? Do we believe without a shadow of a doubt that Yeshua (Jesus) is the only way to get there? If we do, how can we keep our mouths closed to a world of people who are headed for the agony of Hell?

Hee-nay-nee means “Here am I”, in Hebrew. This should be our cry to the Lord today. Send me, Lord! Help me to open my mouth for you! Work through me Lord, for your sake and for the sake of those who don’t know you.

The Truth
"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Revelation 22:12)

Overcome Bondage

2009-10-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

The story of the Exodus is a story of miracles – yet in the beginning when Moses first appeared before Pharaoh to deliver the children of Israel from 400 years of slavery, the Israelites were severely tempted and became angry because of the initial hardships that were laid upon them.

They leveled their anger at Moses because suddenly they were told that they would have to gather their own straw for making bricks. They were concerned about offending their slave-masters, fearing that they would slay them.

The Israelites were so accustomed to their slavery that they didn’t want their lives disrupted despite the fact that freedom was at hand. Resigned to this miserable life, they utterly failed to apprehend or appreciate the freedom that was soon approaching. Yes, there was a temporary price: increased hardship and great pressure would set the stage for their final deliverance.

The same can happen to us. It has often been said “The darkest night is just before the dawn”.....Don’t let yourself remain accustomed to any form of bondage – seek and believe for the freedom that God has given us through His Son. Expect a life of great victory over sin and demonic oppression – Why? Because that is His promise to us!

The Truth
"For whatever is born of God overcomes the world." 1 John 5:4

Godly Attitude

2009-10-04T09:21:00.000-07:00

I ran across this story while looking for an example of a Godly attitude. While there were many to choose from, I just couldn't pass this one up.

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and saw that she had only three hairs on her head. “Great,” she said, “I think I’ll braid my hair today.” So she did, and had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. “Hmm,” she said, “I guess I’ll part my hair down the middle.” So she did, and had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only one hair left on her head. “Wow,” she said, “today I get to wear my hair in a pony tail.” So she did, and had a wonderful, wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that there wasn’t a single hair on her head. “Thank God!” she exclaimed. “I was running out of things to do with my hair!”

ATTITUDE is everything! Let’s be grateful for the things God has given us. Have a wonderful day!

The Truth
"I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth." (Psalms 34:1)

Run Your Race

2009-09-24T21:22:00.001-07:00

In 490 B.C., the Athenians won a crucial and decisive battle over the forces of King Darius I of Persia, on a plain near the Greek coastal town of Marathon. Upon delivering the important message of their victory, the Greek soldier who came to tell the good news died — he had completed the 26 mile course running and bearing good news, and did it totally unreserved until the moment he died. Today marathons are run all over the world, commemorating that event 2500 years ago.

Anyone who has run a marathon can tell you how difficult the race is. No matter how good you are, how well trained, how prepared, there are times in the race you just want to quit. But those who persevere till the end receive a prize. Back in King Darius’ day, one would win only a crown made of laurel leaves while today, athletes compete for trophies and medals.

Life is your own personal marathon that can wear you down. One can feel overworked, overstressed, overwhelmed. But be encouraged, God is with you, strengthening your feeble knees and moving you in the right direction!!! Just when you think you can’t run any further, you can! Press through for the great prize - something far more precious — a crown that is incorruptible. Run your race but seek God's face.

The Truth
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."(Heb 12:1-2)

Be Content

2009-09-16T16:58:00.001-07:00

It’s been statistically proven that out of the 162 Major League baseball games that make up a full season of play, every team will win at least 60 games and lose at least 60 games. In other words, the worst team will still manage to win 60 games, and the best team will still manage to lose 60. It’s what happens with the other 42 that makes or breaks a season. It’s an interesting way to think about a baseball season and another reason why I think baseball is a lot like life.

Winning teams experience a lot of losses. Losing teams experience a significant amount of wins. For 120 games out of 162, everybody looks the same. That’s almost 75% of the season. It’s what happens with the remaining 25% that makes the difference between a champion and a cellar-dweller.

Life is all about ups and downs. We’re all going to have good days and bad days. Winners don’t win all the time; losers don’t lose all the time. In fact, most of the time, it’s hard to tell the difference. You can’t make one’s experience the judge of everything. Pretty much all of sports tells us that winning is only a slight edge.

So what’s the point of this for us? Experience isn’t everything. If you’re having a hard day, be patient, things are about to change. If you are cruising on top of things, enjoy it, because things are about to change. Change is the one constant for all of us, and those who are best prepared for it will have the best experience. If you expect things to always go well and get upset when they don’t, you’re in for making tough times tougher. If you are simply grateful for what each day brings, you will fare much better in the long run.

The Truth
“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:12-13).

Oppose 'Harvey Milk Gay Day' in California government schools (SB 572)

2009-09-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

SACRAMENTO — Under a swell of pressure from conservatives, a bill that would designate a day of honor for gay-rights icon Harvey Milk could be headed for a veto by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger once the Legislature sends it his way.

If Schwarzenegger were to shoot down the proposal proclaiming May 22, Milk's birthday, as Harvey Milk Day, it would mark the second time in as many years the governor will have done so. Last year, he said it was more appropriate for Milk to be honored in San Francisco, where the former supervisor earned fame as the first openly elected gay man in the country before being assassinated.

Ask everyone you know to call and leave a message asking him to veto the bill. The governor's office has set up an automated voice system to receive public opinion regarding SB 572. You will not need to speak to anyone - just press buttons!

Call the Governor's office at: (916) 445-2841

Press 1 for English; Press 2 for Legislation; Press 1 to express your opinion on SB 572; Press 2 to oppose SB 572,Harvey Milk Day.

Are You Willing to Stand?

2009-09-03T17:27:00.000-07:00

“On Sunday, believers arrived at a house church in the Soviet Union in small groups throughout the day so not to arouse the suspicion of KGB informers. They began by singing a hymn quietly. Suddenly, in walked two soldiers with loaded weapons at the ready. One shouted, “If you wish to renounce your commitment to Jesus Christ, leave now!” Two or three quickly left, then another. After a few more seconds, two more. “This is your last chance. Either turn against your faith in Christ,” he ordered, “or stay and suffer the consequences.” Two more slipped out into the night. No one else moved. Parents with children trembling beside them looked down reassuringly, fully expecting to be gunned down or imprisoned. The other soldier closed the door, looked back at those who stood against the wall and said, “Keep your hands up–but this time in praise to our Lord Jesus Christ. We, too, are Christians. We were sent to another house church several weeks ago to arrest a group of believers.” The other soldier interrupted, “But, instead, we were converted! We have learned by experience, however, that unless people are willing to die for their faith, they cannot be fully trusted.” (From “Living Above the Level of Mediocrity,” by Chuck Swindoll).

Wow. Can you imagine being faced with a decision to run or die for our faith? We are living in a day where this could very well become reality! But how many of us would be willing to stand?

Let’s start deepening our relationship with the Lord today so that our minds may be focused on heavenly things and not consumed with the weight of all the worldly ones. That it would be easy for us to make a stand for Him should that day ever come.

The Truth
"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." (1 John 3:16)

See The Big Picture

2009-08-16T19:57:00.000-07:00

I came across this powerful story on judgement and wanted to share it with all of you.

There was a man who had four sons. He wanted them to learn to not judge things too quickly, so he sent them each on a quest to go and look at a pear tree that was a great distance away. He sent his first son in the winter, his second in the spring, his third in summer and his youngest in the fall. When they had all gone and come back, he called them together to describe what they had seen.

The first son said that the tree was ugly, bent, and twisted. The second son said no – it was covered with green buds and full of promise. The third son disagreed, he said it was laden with blossoms that smelled so sweet and looked so beautiful, it was the most graceful thing he had ever seen. The last son disagreed with all of them; he said it was ripe and drooping with fruit, full of life and fulfillment.

After hearing all his son’s responses, the wise father replied, “Sons, you are all right — because you have each seen only one season in the tree’s life. But you cannot judge a tree, or a person, or anything else by only one season. Most things can only be measured at the end, when all the seasons have come to pass."

I think each of us has judged someone or something prematurely, and have also probably experienced the pain of being judged in that way. Most of us have gone through similar seasons in our own lives and should understand the need to look closely enough and long enough to see the big picture before passing judgement.

The Truth
"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts; and then each one's praise will come from God." (1 Corinthians 4:5)

God's Patience is not Approval

2009-08-10T20:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever asked yourself, Why doesn't God do something about this or that? Why does He allow something in particular to continue?

It took me a long time to understand, God's patience with man does not signal His approval. It simply shows His long suffering and love for man. "God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." Also remember His timing is different from ours; "with the Lord one day is a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." (2 Peter 3:8-9) However, make no mistake about it, the Lord will execute His righteousness. "He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever." (Psalm 103:9)

Therefore, just as He executed righteousness in the time of Noah (with the great flood) and in the time of Lot (destroying Sodom/Gomorrah with brimstone and fire) a day of reckoning is appointed for all those who dwell on the earth. Thankfully, just as Noah and his family and Lot with his daughters were delivered before judgement, so too will the believers in Christ be delivered.

The Truth
"The labor of the righteous leads to life, but the wages of the wicked leads to sin."
(Proverbs 10:16)

Creation Fest 2009

2009-08-03T16:13:00.000-07:00

Christian music festival at the Royal Cornwall Showground, Cornwall, Uk - organised by Calvary Chapel.

Please pray for the success of this outreach during the next two weeks and for all the team members. Creation Fest is a FREE Christian Music Festival held at the Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge, Cornwall, from the 7-13 August 2009.

The vision of the festival is to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ through contemporary Christian music. Creation Fest offers something for all the family with a full program of music, teaching seminars, workshops, sports activities, films, 'Creation Kids' and family fun. There is also a massive skate / BMX park with Pro skate demos throughout the festival.

To keep up with the Calvary Team go to; "Helpful Web Sites" on the right hand side of this blog and click on the Creation Fest link.