I came across this story and just had to share it.
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 often neglect to declare it over the circumstances in our lives. Use the power of God's Word and watch your victories mount!
The Truth
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged 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)
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Let Go and Let God
The most difficult aspect of being a parent is, "Letting go." Why? Because you feel helpless. It just seems to go against every instinct of parenting. Most parents at some point or another become guilty of over parenting, I know I was. But at some point, we must love our sons/daughters enough to let go, trust, believe in the Godly principles they were brought up with 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 at times. However, He allows His sons/daughters to make their own decisions, despite how bad those choices may be. No matter what terrible wrongs they may commit, He loves them. He is not just a “loving” God — the scripture says that “God IS love” (1 John 4:6).
Therefore, when we come to realize that His love is freely given, 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)
Our Heavenly Father (in a sense) can be like the "helpless parent", whose unending love is neither understood nor appreciated at times. However, He allows His sons/daughters to make their own decisions, despite how bad those choices may be. No matter what terrible wrongs they may commit, He loves them. He is not just a “loving” God — the scripture says that “God IS love” (1 John 4:6).
Therefore, when we come to realize that His love is freely given, 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)
Saturday, December 1, 2012
God's Gift
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)
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)
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Holiday Gatherings
Holidays are times when families traditionally get together. For most families this is a joyous occasion with lively dinner conversation, board games, even a traditional touch football game - but for some, it can be a vivid reminder of estranged relationships, separations, divorce or lost loved ones. A difficult time for some to face unless wounds have healed.
Healing, under these circumstances, can seem impossible. However, like a broken bone that becomes stronger after it mends, the same is true with relationships. The areas where we have been hurt, where we have fallen or failed, maybe even given up on - are the very places where God can heal us if we allow Him to.
How do we allow this healing? We become transparent 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.
God bless you all this Thanksgiving and if you are in need of healing, just ask.
The Truth
“His strength is made perfect through our weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Healing, under these circumstances, can seem impossible. However, like a broken bone that becomes stronger after it mends, the same is true with relationships. The areas where we have been hurt, where we have fallen or failed, maybe even given up on - are the very places where God can heal us if we allow Him to.
How do we allow this healing? We become transparent 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.
God bless you all this Thanksgiving and if you are in need of healing, just ask.
The Truth
“His strength is made perfect through our weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Friday, November 9, 2012
The Battle of Ezekiel 38
The Bible clearly states in Ezekiel 38, that the Nation of Israel will be invaded by Russia (Gog) and it’s allies (Iran, Ethiopia, Libya, Turkey, Sudan). During this invasion Israel will stand alone, no one will come to her aid. Not even the United States. According to most Bible commentaries, the battle of Ezekiel will most likely take place during the tribulation period and probably during the first 3 ½ years of the seven year period - a time when Israel is at peace (Ezek. 38:8) under a covenant with the Antichrist at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. (Daniel 9:27) How could this occur in our time? Here is one scenario.
Israel, probably the most restrained country on earth, which has long endured mortar shell attacks, rocket attacks, suicide bombers, invasions of surrounding areas as a way of life, is currently keeping an eye on Iran’s nuclear build up with much interest. During the continued Arab Israeli conflict, Iran has made one thing very clear - they will not rest until Israel is destroyed. With Israel’s history of surprise attacks against its enemies before they can strike first - Israel may well attack Iran with a surgical strike to take out its nuclear power capabilities before it can be turned against her. This could allow Israel to live in peace and safety for a time, until her neighbors organized against her for a coordinated attack described in Ezekiel 38.
In light of our current political leadership, Israel has little more than vocal support from the US. If anything, the current leadership is less concerned with Israel than it is with helping the victims of hurricane Sandy. Many Israelite's believe, as a result of our recent election, that they are truly alone in the world. So…what will Israel do to defend itself? Use technology.
Israel does possess the technology to send Iran back to the stone age. It is called, an electromagnetic bomb. This sort would be detonated above the ground, creating an electromagnetic pulse that would disrupt all the technological devices working on the ground. This kind of bomb would operate based on the nonlethal technology of gamma rays. The outburst of energy would “fry” electric devices and currents around the source of the explosion, thus ending any possible threat of nuclear attack for years, providing them with peace and safety for a time.
I am not an alarmist, but I do read my Bible - which tells me, we are truly living in the last days. Pray for Israel, read your Bible and watch for the signs in world events, as they build toward this clash.
The Truth
Ezekiel 38:18-23
Ezekiel 39:1-16
Israel, probably the most restrained country on earth, which has long endured mortar shell attacks, rocket attacks, suicide bombers, invasions of surrounding areas as a way of life, is currently keeping an eye on Iran’s nuclear build up with much interest. During the continued Arab Israeli conflict, Iran has made one thing very clear - they will not rest until Israel is destroyed. With Israel’s history of surprise attacks against its enemies before they can strike first - Israel may well attack Iran with a surgical strike to take out its nuclear power capabilities before it can be turned against her. This could allow Israel to live in peace and safety for a time, until her neighbors organized against her for a coordinated attack described in Ezekiel 38.
In light of our current political leadership, Israel has little more than vocal support from the US. If anything, the current leadership is less concerned with Israel than it is with helping the victims of hurricane Sandy. Many Israelite's believe, as a result of our recent election, that they are truly alone in the world. So…what will Israel do to defend itself? Use technology.
Israel does possess the technology to send Iran back to the stone age. It is called, an electromagnetic bomb. This sort would be detonated above the ground, creating an electromagnetic pulse that would disrupt all the technological devices working on the ground. This kind of bomb would operate based on the nonlethal technology of gamma rays. The outburst of energy would “fry” electric devices and currents around the source of the explosion, thus ending any possible threat of nuclear attack for years, providing them with peace and safety for a time.
I am not an alarmist, but I do read my Bible - which tells me, we are truly living in the last days. Pray for Israel, read your Bible and watch for the signs in world events, as they build toward this clash.
The Truth
Ezekiel 38:18-23
Ezekiel 39:1-16
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tolerance or Tyranny
Tolerance is a word we hear a lot in today‘s society. According to Webster, it is a sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or practices differing from or conflicting with, one's own. In other words, people agreeably disagreeing. I might sympathize with your belief on say - life in prison vs. capital punishment - but at the same time, not agree with it.
Tyranny, on the other hand, is oppressive/absolute authority imposed by some on others who are differing with the established beliefs. So, if a government or institution takes a stand on a belief and imposes that stand on it’s people, without the ability to reject said belief, it is tyranny.
However, in today’s society, these two terms are mixed up. Today tolerance means, acceptance. The acceptance of someone else’s belief - say - sexuality or gender identify. To the point where, rejection of said belief is not an option because some institution says you must accept their view. That sounds like tyranny in my dictionary.
As a Christian public high school teacher, I recently had to sit through a workshop on gender identity and was instructed at this workshop to (among other things) “celebrate” with any student who “came out to me” because of their trust in confiding with me.
As a Christian who believes that; “God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:27), I can listen, be a confidante and even offer another point of view to a confused high school student - but certainly not celebrate this unbiblical view.
Therefore, when you cast your vote next Tuesday, please think about your views as a Christian and about which candidate represents what you believe in. This election is Not about race, nor religion, nor a political party, nor special interests - but about future control. Think about, who voted God out of their party platform, think about abortion, the support of Israel, the support of gay marriage, the agendas in public education - these are the issues we as Christians are voting for or against next Tuesday.
The Truth
Someone will win this election, the question is - what will he bring with him? Prayerfully seek your choice and above all, may God continue to bless America.
Tyranny, on the other hand, is oppressive/absolute authority imposed by some on others who are differing with the established beliefs. So, if a government or institution takes a stand on a belief and imposes that stand on it’s people, without the ability to reject said belief, it is tyranny.
However, in today’s society, these two terms are mixed up. Today tolerance means, acceptance. The acceptance of someone else’s belief - say - sexuality or gender identify. To the point where, rejection of said belief is not an option because some institution says you must accept their view. That sounds like tyranny in my dictionary.
As a Christian public high school teacher, I recently had to sit through a workshop on gender identity and was instructed at this workshop to (among other things) “celebrate” with any student who “came out to me” because of their trust in confiding with me.
As a Christian who believes that; “God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:27), I can listen, be a confidante and even offer another point of view to a confused high school student - but certainly not celebrate this unbiblical view.
Therefore, when you cast your vote next Tuesday, please think about your views as a Christian and about which candidate represents what you believe in. This election is Not about race, nor religion, nor a political party, nor special interests - but about future control. Think about, who voted God out of their party platform, think about abortion, the support of Israel, the support of gay marriage, the agendas in public education - these are the issues we as Christians are voting for or against next Tuesday.
The Truth
Someone will win this election, the question is - what will he bring with him? Prayerfully seek your choice and above all, may God continue to bless America.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Truly This Was The Son Of God
Have you ever had a revelation? Something that became crystal clear to you in a moment. Peter had one of those moments when Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do men say that I, the son of man, am?” (Matthew 16:13) Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matt. 16:16) Likewise, a Roman Centurion standing guard at the cross witnessing the slow and agonizing death of Jesus had the same revelation. Upon seeing the events which took place immediately after Jesus breathed His last, (the veil of the temple being torn from top to bottom; the earth shaking and rocks splitting; tombs opening) he became filled with fear and stated, “Truly this was the Son of God.” (Matthew 27:50-54)
Yet Jesus was crucified because of the accusations by the very people who should have recognized Him as the Son of God more than anyone else; the Pharisees (Mark 3:6), Scribes and even the Chief Priests (Mark 11:18) of Jerusalem. They were the historians, the educated, the very voice of the scriptures to the people. Instead, they handed Jesus over to Pilate to be put to death. What was their case that warranted death by crucifixion? Pontius Pilate wondered the same thing. The Bible tells us that Pilate knew the chief priests handed Him over because of “envy“ (Mark 15:10) and that he found no fault in Him. (Luke 23:14)
Because Jesus forgave people of their sins and made statements like, “If you have seen Me, you have seen the Father” (John 14:9) - they (chief priests) saw this as blasphemy for only God alone can forgive people for their sins. Therefore, these acts put Jesus on the same level as God. However, if you are the Son of God, where is the blasphemy? Even one of the two criminals crucified with Jesus recognized His ability to forgive him of his sins stating, “Lord remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42)
So, the question to us remains the same as it was to His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15) A good man? A teacher? A prophet? Or like Peter, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
The Truth
“After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he (John) saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him (Jesus) and behold , a voice out of the heavens said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17 and 2 Peter 1:17)
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Heavenly Treasure
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” (2 Cor. 5:10)
The Christian will some day appear (made manifest) before the “Judgment Seat of Christ.” This is where our lives will be laid open before the tribunal of Christ, to examine our service for Him. Not only the amount of service, but the quality and even the very motives that prompted it, will be brought into review. Here our heavenly rewards will be directly proportionate to our faithfulness to Him.
As a believer, one should always remember that faith is linked with salvation, and works are linked to reward. We (believers) are saved by grace through faith, not of works; (Eph.2:8-9) but - once saved, we must put our faith into action through good works- “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is also dead.” (James 2:26)
Therefore, let us all exam our heats to test the motives of our service whether they be to please man or please God. For if it is to please man, then the Bible says, “you have your reward on earth” - but if the motive is to please God, “then your reward is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:1-4)
The Truth
“For the son of Man will come in the glory of His Father and with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.” (Matthew 16:27)
Thursday, September 20, 2012
The Testing Of Faith
Throughout the epistle of James, the brother of Jesus describes how, “the testing of our faith produces patience.” Testing can come to us in many ways; through trials (James 1:2), through temptations (James 1:12), through works (James 2:17-26), through stumbling (James 3:2-12), through pride (James 3:13-16), through lust (James 4:1-4) and through power and wealth (James 5:1-6). However James is quick to point out that, “patience must have its perfect work, that we may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:4) What this means is, we must complete the test.
Everyone of these types of tests are checks to see where we are in our growth as a Christian. They can be short and quick - field of vision at the beach, that second look - or long and seemingly everlasting - a struggle with drugs/alcohol/cigarettes/porn. We can endure these tests as they come along with patience and become stronger or, we can fall - experience separation - eventually become broken and repentant - cry out to God - and start over again. But, be assured - just like school - if you did not pass the test, you will have to take it again.
What is James exhortation for these test of the faith? To be patient and to persevere until the coming of our Lord (James 5:7-11), to pray for specific needs (James 5:13-18) and to restore our brothers to the faith. (James 5:19-20)
The Truth
“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” (James 5:16)
Everyone of these types of tests are checks to see where we are in our growth as a Christian. They can be short and quick - field of vision at the beach, that second look - or long and seemingly everlasting - a struggle with drugs/alcohol/cigarettes/porn. We can endure these tests as they come along with patience and become stronger or, we can fall - experience separation - eventually become broken and repentant - cry out to God - and start over again. But, be assured - just like school - if you did not pass the test, you will have to take it again.
What is James exhortation for these test of the faith? To be patient and to persevere until the coming of our Lord (James 5:7-11), to pray for specific needs (James 5:13-18) and to restore our brothers to the faith. (James 5:19-20)
The Truth
“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” (James 5:16)
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
To Everything There is a Season
How often have you said, The Lords' Prayer? Now, how often have you stopped to think about the words, "Thy will be done?" Those are some tough words to pray at times.
My wife lost her brother to lung cancer a few years back. We prayed for healing and cried out for a healing touch all through his illness but, Gods' will was not to heal him on earth and that's OK. Even though as Christains we are told to, "make our requests known to God," He is under no obligation take our direction. Who are we to direct or council God.
Jesus, the night before His crucifixtion prayed, "Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will. (Matthew 26:39) The Bible also speaks of Jesus being in so much agony at this point, that His sweat became like great drops of blood falling to the ground. (Luke 22:44) This request must have been difficult for the Father not to grant seeing both the current and future pain of His Son. However, God had a greater purpose, the salvation of man.
Therefore, do not be discouraged by what seems to be unanswered prayer. Understand our Father has a heavenly purpose that is far beyond our current understanding - and that some day, we will see it clearly.
The Truth
"To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
My wife lost her brother to lung cancer a few years back. We prayed for healing and cried out for a healing touch all through his illness but, Gods' will was not to heal him on earth and that's OK. Even though as Christains we are told to, "make our requests known to God," He is under no obligation take our direction. Who are we to direct or council God.
Jesus, the night before His crucifixtion prayed, "Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will. (Matthew 26:39) The Bible also speaks of Jesus being in so much agony at this point, that His sweat became like great drops of blood falling to the ground. (Luke 22:44) This request must have been difficult for the Father not to grant seeing both the current and future pain of His Son. However, God had a greater purpose, the salvation of man.
Therefore, do not be discouraged by what seems to be unanswered prayer. Understand our Father has a heavenly purpose that is far beyond our current understanding - and that some day, we will see it clearly.
The Truth
"To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
Monday, September 17, 2012
Keep Asking, Seeking, Knocking
Have you ever noticed how most people have a hard time waiting their turn? This can be seen in different actions every day. For example - the sigh-er, the tapper, the look, the body language and of course the questioner, "Can't you go any faster." In the instant breakfast society we live in today, everyone wants an express lane. We want - what we want - when we want it. As Christians, we need to show patience in everything we do in our daily life's, including being patient with our Lord.
Have you ever been praying for someone or something, for what seems to you a long time? Well, join the club. We all have. 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 above all that we could ask or think."(Eph.3:20) Keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking. 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)
Have you ever been praying for someone or something, for what seems to you a long time? Well, join the club. We all have. 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 above all that we could ask or think."(Eph.3:20) Keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking. 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)
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Renew Your Strenght
"Those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and faint." Isaiah 40:31
The word "wait" in the King James Version here means "to hope," to look to God for all that we need. This involves trust and living your life in expectation of His promises while enduring your current set of circumstances.
The word "renew" means "to change," as in taking off old clothes and putting on new. We exchange our weakness for His power (2 Cor. 12:1-10) As we wait before Him, God gives us the power to walk through the day-to-day demands of life and life's unexpected tragedies.
The Truth
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou are with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)
The word "wait" in the King James Version here means "to hope," to look to God for all that we need. This involves trust and living your life in expectation of His promises while enduring your current set of circumstances.
The word "renew" means "to change," as in taking off old clothes and putting on new. We exchange our weakness for His power (2 Cor. 12:1-10) As we wait before Him, God gives us the power to walk through the day-to-day demands of life and life's unexpected tragedies.
The Truth
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou are with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Self Control
People who fight fire with fire usually end up with ashes.
How often, in talking with people, do we feel.... we are right; our idea, our position, our interpretation is correct, and we're ready to fight for it. Forget the fact that we may not be correct, or that there might be something we're completely ignorant of. The truth is, that sometimes we know better, and sometimes we don't. But the scripture teaches us, and I've learned from experience (most of the time), that arguing, forcefulness, and violence in my own voice are almost guaranteed to start a futile and ugly war of words. People are naturally defensive, and often, naturally offensive.
But we can be the ones to break the pattern…with a gentle answer. If our heart attitude is “Come, let us reason together, hear each other out, respect each other, speak softly, and trust the Lord for the outcome", and our tone of voice carries that spirit, we can actually help the other person to calm down and prevent a war. The fruit of the spirit is…..self control. What a blessing!
The Truth
"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)
How often, in talking with people, do we feel.... we are right; our idea, our position, our interpretation is correct, and we're ready to fight for it. Forget the fact that we may not be correct, or that there might be something we're completely ignorant of. The truth is, that sometimes we know better, and sometimes we don't. But the scripture teaches us, and I've learned from experience (most of the time), that arguing, forcefulness, and violence in my own voice are almost guaranteed to start a futile and ugly war of words. People are naturally defensive, and often, naturally offensive.
But we can be the ones to break the pattern…with a gentle answer. If our heart attitude is “Come, let us reason together, hear each other out, respect each other, speak softly, and trust the Lord for the outcome", and our tone of voice carries that spirit, we can actually help the other person to calm down and prevent a war. The fruit of the spirit is…..self control. What a blessing!
The Truth
"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Continue In Prayer
Pastor Chuck Update: Yesterday Sunday, April 29, 2012 Pastor Chuck announced to the Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa congregation that the doctors had decided that a surgery would be too risky. They will pursue other options to remove the remaining cancer in his lung. Please keep praying for him and the church in Costa Mesa.
Please continue praying for Pastor Chuck Smith, CC Costa Mesa, as he will be finishing his radiation treatments. In two weeks an MRI of his right lung is scheduled. If the cancer is still there, the doctors plan surgery to remove the lobe where the cancer is located. According to doctors, Pastor Chuck is not a good candidate for surgery due to his age and the stroke he had in December of 2009. Of course, we know that the Great Physician is in charge—so we continue to pray for a miraculous report that defies all expectations. Pastor Chuck continues his normal schedule of work; teaching and radio ministry in spite of the fatigue that is normal at this point of radiation treatments.
The Truth
"The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." James 5:16
Please continue praying for Pastor Chuck Smith, CC Costa Mesa, as he will be finishing his radiation treatments. In two weeks an MRI of his right lung is scheduled. If the cancer is still there, the doctors plan surgery to remove the lobe where the cancer is located. According to doctors, Pastor Chuck is not a good candidate for surgery due to his age and the stroke he had in December of 2009. Of course, we know that the Great Physician is in charge—so we continue to pray for a miraculous report that defies all expectations. Pastor Chuck continues his normal schedule of work; teaching and radio ministry in spite of the fatigue that is normal at this point of radiation treatments.
The Truth
"The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." James 5:16
Monday, February 13, 2012
Love
I spent time today reading and thinking about love and what the Bible has to say on the subject. True love, as described below from 1 Corinthians, is not based on the outward/physical appearance - but on unconditional selflessness. Think about each statement below and take stock on how you currently measure up.
"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (1 Cor.13:4-13)
As Christian husbands we are truly blessed to have someone who loves us in this way. To share in our struggles, our failures as well as our victories. Our job, is to simply love our wives just as Christ also loved His church and gave Himself for it.
Spend some time in 1 Corinthians 13 and renew your love and devotion to your wife today. Love conquers all.
"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (1 Cor.13:4-13)
As Christian husbands we are truly blessed to have someone who loves us in this way. To share in our struggles, our failures as well as our victories. Our job, is to simply love our wives just as Christ also loved His church and gave Himself for it.
Spend some time in 1 Corinthians 13 and renew your love and devotion to your wife today. Love conquers all.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
So Others May Live
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)
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)
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Betrayed By A Kiss
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 knew was coming and would endure for us, despising the shame.
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)
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 knew was coming and would endure for us, despising the shame.
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)
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Two Thieves
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)
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)
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