New Year’s Possibilities

"The new year is an opportunity for

a new start."

The new year is an opportunity for a new start. I once heard about a man that regularly took a block of time in December to engage in planning and goal setting for the next year for his organization. The way our annual calendar is set up, it provides a vision for that. It is the end of the old and the beginning of the new. Not only do we see this concept in view of time, but in nature too. In our part of the globe, we are blessed to have four seasons. When fall and winter come, it is the end of the old. But when spring and summer come, it is the beginning of the new. We see this concept in life itself. In a family, when a grandparent has passed away there is sorrow in saying goodbye, but then later there is joy in welcoming a new little infant to the family. And we also see this in spiritual terms. For people outside of Jesus there is spiritual death and darkness, but once they are in Jesus, there is spiritual life and light. One writer from the Bible put it this way, “…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God…” (2 Corinthians 5:17-18) (Image from freepik.com)

You may not realize it, but if you are outside of Jesus, you are living in the old. All that is in you is death and darkness. Though that sounds grim, it is true. And that may explain some things happening in your life and family right now. They are the consequences or by-products of it. We may try to “Instagram” our life to others, but we cannot escape the reality of our condition. No amount of busyness, noise, praise by others or positive self-talk can hide the truth. This is the old.

Jesus declared He is life and light. He is the one who can make all things new. He conquered death and darkness through His own death and rising again. For all who come to Him, He is willing to make new. But to receive the promise of being made new, there is a great cost. To receive what Jesus died to give you will cost your very life. What does that mean? It means you are no longer willing to put your desires, wants and needs above, beside or to the exclusion of God. It means that you deliberately choose to follow Jesus as your own Lord, King, Master and Ruler.

It is a new year, and the possibility of a new life is waiting for you. The empty blood-stained cross of Jesus is what it took to bring you the chance for a new start. Commit all to Jesus as the first step toward transformation.

A prayer for you - Lord God, I pray you will make many new creations today. May people receive by faith the promise of newness you rose again to give them. I pray they would turn from their ways and give all they are to you. There is no cost too great, compared to what you did on the cross for us. May they see that and humble themselves before you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Discover Your Destiny in 2024!

“You were created for a purpose. You have a destiny to achieve."

In August of 1991, I began packing my things up and saying goodbye to family and friends to head east. Over a year earlier I had a life changing encounter with Jesus. Through that, He put a desire with me to go and tell others about Him. This led me to the place where I loaded up all my belongings and left my home in Colorado and traveled to Kansas. There I enrolled in college to begin preparing for my new purpose in life. It was through that experience where I discovered my true destiny. (Image from depositphotos.com)

What about you, have you ever thought, “What is my destiny in life? What is my purpose?” Everyone’s answer falls into three groups. The first group says, “You bet! I get up every day with a sense of purpose for myself.” The second truthfully states, “Honestly, I have never considered the question. I just do not think that way.” And the third, “Me? I am totally lost. I have no idea where my life is headed.”

No matter how you are wired, let me say that your life has a purpose. You are destined to achieve something beyond yourself. And as we begin a new year, I think it is finally time to discover what that is.

One of the greatest men who ever lived, was Paul of Tarsus. He was a Jew, whom made his mark on the world in the first century. He was brilliant from his youth, with some believing he had an equivalent to a triple Ph.D.

He lived at the same time as Jesus of Nazareth, and began to make his mark on the world following Jesus’ death and resurrection. In Paul’s own words he wrote, “I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers." (Galatians 1:13-14) To fellow Jewish observers, Paul was a success and living out his destiny.

However, in the middle of all his achievements, something began to change. It started with a man named Stephen, where Paul oversaw his martyrdom. This impacted him. However, Paul went on to do more and more evil until he came face-to-face with the one he was trying to destroy - Jesus. He confronted Paul, causing him to fall to the ground. Through this encounter Paul was transformed and given a new direction in life. Years later after reflecting on that moment, he stated, “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” (Philippians 3:7) To Paul, all of his success in Judaism meant nothing in relation to Jesus.

Paul’s achievements early in life, was about “him.” He was living out “his” purpose. But something changed when he turned to Jesus. He realized how God had a purpose for him that was different than his own. Paul humbled himself, accepted that purpose, and began to live it, counting everything before that moment, “as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus…” (Phil 3:8)

What is true success? It is taking yourself before God and saying, “I want your purpose for my life, not my own.” Or it is admitting, “I do not feel any sense of direction for my life at all. Show me your purpose O God.” It is then letting God’s plan for you, to become your plan.

And where does it all start? At the cross, where Jesus died. It is where you also must die, die to what you feel is your purpose or even lack of purpose. Then take up God’s direction for you. It is at this intersection, where you will discover your divine destiny.

A prayer for you – Lord God, awaken people to their divine destiny. Let them wake up each day with a sense of holy purpose. Help them to find this at the foot of the cross, and begin a new life in you this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Greatest Mystery of Christmas

   

“What effect do hearts and lives made holy through Jesus have? They have the ability to change an entire family, city, nation and the world.”

Did you know there are many things we cannot explain? Like dark matter in our universe. We know it exists, but unsure what it is and where it exists. Did you also know what the least explored part of the earth is? The deep sea, where depths can reach seven miles. Only two humans have ever traveled there. The whole region is a mystery to scientists. Do you know what the greatest mystery to the Christmas story is? The virgin birth. It is a mystery to both theologians and scientists. How can a woman become pregnant without the sperm of a man? But the virgin birth is beyond mysterious, it is miraculous, and it is the very center of the Christmas story, for without it, there would be no Christmas. (Image by eyecrave productions)

The virgin birth is the way in which Jesus came from heaven to earth. It was how God became a man and humbly lived among us. One of Jesus’ Apostles wrote of this, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) Often Jesus referred to Himself as being sent by His Father in heaven, “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.” (John 6:38)

Jesus eternally existed in heaven until one marvelous day. It was then He left His Father and the angels in His celestial home, to become a seed planted inside of a young virgin’s womb. I cannot imagine what heaven must have been like, seeing Him go. And Mary became God’s chosen instrument to bring His Son into the world. She was a woman in her teenage years when she and her fiancé, Joseph, were preparing to wed. It was during this time Mary had an encounter that would change her life and the world, forever. An angel appeared to her and communicated a message from the Lord God. "…you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus" (Luke 1:31). Thinking logically, Mary could not understand. She replied to the angel, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" (Luke 1:34). The angel explained, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy—the Son of God…For nothing will be impossible with God" (Luke 1:35, 38).

The virgin birth was necessary because of who Jesus was; a holy, perfect, and sinless Man. And God the Father chose Mary to bring Him into the world. She was faithful Him, and had never lain with a man. Though Mary was not sinless, God made her holy, which prepared her to receive the Son of God.

The virgin birth was also necessary because of the cross. For only Jesus could have died and rose again to provide forgiveness of sins for the world. In all the universe there was no one so good, so right as He. There would be no cross and no resurrection, if there was no virgin birth.

The birth of Christ is no myth, legend or allegory. It is a historical fact, albeit, a miraculous one. No scientist can explain or fully understand it. It is a complete miracle in how a virgin can give birth to a child. Do you believe in the virgin birth of the Lord Jesus Christ? Jesus came from heaven to earth for you and your household. For it is only through His birth and resurrection, both miracles, that you can have the hope of forgiveness and be spared from the judgment of God.

A prayer for you - "Lord God, I pray you will help us to believe in the virgin birth of your Son. It is a miracle. It defies human logic. How could this be? Help us to believe and fully yield our lives to you. For you are the God of the impossible. Do the impossible within us, and change our hearts this very hour. In Jesus’ name. Amen."

The Offense of Christmas

 

“What effect do hearts and lives made holy through Jesus have? They have the ability to change an entire family, city, nation and the world.”

Christmas naturally provides opportunities to talk about Jesus with people. On one such occasion I was driving along with a friend who was not religious. I asked “So do you believe in the existence of Jesus as a historical figure?” He said, “Yes.” I also questioned, “Do you believe Jesus died?” He remembered the story of Jesus’ crucifixion and acknowledged how brutal the Roman torture was, and stated “The Romans were ruthless. He definitely would have suffered mortal wounds.” I addressed the resurrection, “Do you believe Jesus rose from the dead?” He paused then doubted the writings of the New Testament that testify to it. “What about the belief that Jesus is God?” He questioned the possibility of it, then quickly mentioned how he fully agreed with the moral teachings of Jesus. (image by Santa Vectors by Vecteezy)

For many, when they have conversations about Christmas, it turns to a discussion of family gatherings, school programs and holiday decorations. But for true Christians it is much different. It is centered around Jesus; that He was sent by the Creator God from heaven to earth; that His birth was miraculous and a historical fact; that He grew up to become the world’s greatest teacher, spiritual leader and miracle worker; that He died by sacrificing Himself for the salvation of all mankind; that He conquered sin and death by miraculously rising from the dead. This Jesus, the divine Son of God, is worshipped by people all over the world at Christmastime in remembrance for who He is and what He has done.

Even though the discussion about Jesus with my friend was pleasant, there are other times, when the Christ of Christmas is divisive. This time every year, many attempt to ban Jesus from His own holiday and replace Him with elves, reindeer and lavish spending. The area of tension is found in public settings, where officials do not want Jesus to offend school or university students. And in business arenas, where owners do not want to offend customers. The offense of Jesus goes beyond this and to world religions. Judaism, Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons and even atheists – they all have one thing in common. They do not acknowledge Jesus as the divine Son of God or celebrate Christmas in honor of Him.

What is at the heart of this effort to expunge Jesus from Christmas? The deity of Christ. The fact of Jesus’ miraculous birth, life and resurrection all clearly reveal He was more than just a mere man, but divine. And this truth has far reaching implications. It means Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords and must be submitted to. It is a truth that commands allegiance. It is a truth that changes everything.

We see this illustrated with King Herod in the Christmas story. After Herod heard about a baby boy that had been born as King of the Jews through wise men whom were seeking to find and worship Him, Herod sought to find and kill Him. He wanted to be rid of Jesus. Why? Because He posed a threat. The wise men did not think the same. They traveled from afar, and brought gifts to honor the baby King. He was no offense to them.

Jesus once said, “I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.” (John 12:46) From the divinity of Jesus comes a blazing light. It pierces through a world steeped in darkness. The shining light was displayed in full measure on the night of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem nearly 2,000 years ago.

The light of Jesus’ deity and peoples need for His saving power, offends them. They try to hide from it, or even work to eliminate it, but cannot. Yet, in His kindness and mercy, Jesus still calls out that they might know Him through His covenant love.

A prayer for you – Lord God, we praise you for the Christ of Christmas. We praise you, that He was more than just a man, but God Himself walking among us. This Christmas, may people see His divine light and turn to Him with all their heart and be saved from their sin. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Coming King of Christmas

“What effect do hearts and lives made holy through Jesus have? They have the ability to change an entire family, city, nation and the world.”

In times of crisis, whether it be a financial collapse, rising crime, political in-fighting, moral failures among the influential, the blood shed from war or wide spread corruption, people naturally want change. History is replete with renowned figures that rose from obscurity in eras of uncertainty to influence a nation or affect the world. No matter what a person’s political or religious affiliation is, during a crisis, they just simply want things to turn around. (Image from Motion Worship)

This is why in the course of human history God would routinely intervene in national and world affairs by raising up a chosen messenger to bring about change. One such man was King David. When he was young, he was anointed by God to be Israel’s future king. “Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward.” (1 Samuel 13:13) As the years went by, young David rose to prominence and fulfilled God’s mission leading Israel toward its greatest years. 

During his reign God made this promise to him, “And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever.” (2 Samuel 7:16) What a promise! But how is that possible? For David knew he would eventually be laid to rest like all others. 

David understood that his promised eternal reign would obviously not be himself, but through his future lineage. He believed that through generations yet born, there would always be a king from his line. But more so, he wisely understood there would eventually arise from his line, a King greater than himself and all others, whom would reign forever. 

And who was that future king? 

On the first Christmas Day there was born a baby from the line of David. His name was Jesus. His birth was foretold centuries earlier by Isaiah, “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us).” (Matthew 1:22-23) Jesus grew up to become the greatest spiritual leader in Israel’s history, and eventually gave Himself to die on a cross and rise again for the people of Israel, and the whole world. He once said of Himself, “I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” (Revelation 22:16) And the angels of heaven declared that Jesus was the Anointed One spoken about in David’s promise, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.” (Rev. 11:15)    

Like Jesus’ ancestor, David, He was a King and came as a Deliverer. However, David was a king of a physical nation who sought to deliver his countrymen from their surrounding enemies. Conversely, Jesus came not to set up and rule over a physical kingdom, but a spiritual one. 

Let me ask, why do nations go to war? Why is there crime and rampant immorality? Why are there crises? Because of evil in the hearts of people. However, Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection provided a pathway for people to be delivered from this indwelling evil. When they meet His conditions of faith and repentance, they can be instantaneously made new. 

What effect do hearts and lives made holy through Jesus have? They have the ability to change an entire family, city, nation and the world.

And one day this will happen. He came the first time as a baby, but He has promised to return a second time as a divine Warrior. Then He will physically deliver the whole world from His enemies and set up a physical kingdom where He will reign forever.

This Christmas, enter into Jesus’ kingdom. Trust Him with your whole being and be made new!      

A prayer for you – Lord God, thank you for Christmas and the hope of deliverance from sin it brings. Examine our hearts to see if there be any evil within us. Then help us to earnestly call upon Jesus to be forgiven. In His name. Amen.   

Admit You Have an Alcohol Problem

“You have to decide. You cannot have both God and the bottle. It can only be one or the other. Which will it be?”

A man visited with me, talking about his problem with alcohol. After listening for a while, I looked him in the eye and firmly stated, “You have to decide. You cannot have both God and the bottle. It can only be one or the other. Which will it be?” (Photo by Bence Boros on Unsplash)

The man I talked with is part of a larger problem. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics,10% of all Americans 12 years and older are alcoholics, and of those over 60% are men. And for many it is deadly, where 385 lives are ended every day due to alcohol.   

The millions who abuse alcohol are part of a long and storied history dating back over 3,000 years to a man named Noah. History records him as being the first person to plant a vineyard, make his own wine and booze it up until he became humankind’s first drunk.    

The biblical story recounts Noah as drinking alone in his tent, where the alcohol overtook him, then he disrobed and passed out on the floor without a stitch of clothes on. The incident caused embarrassment and division within the family. 

Let me point out, this was Noah, the one whom God chose to be His voice to the world leading up to the 40-day global flood. He was the one about which the Bible says, “Noah was a righteous man, blameless…Noah walked with God.” (Genesis 6:9)

It does not matter if you are a well-respected clergyman, or are in constant trouble with the law. Noah’s story tells us that anyone can fall prey to the temptation of the bottle.

Why did Noah drink? Why do others? Perhaps someone might be thinking, “It goes good with my meal,” “I like the taste,” “I just want to have some fun with a few friends,” or “It’s been a stressful day and I just want to relax.” For many, their intentions are likely innocent. For others, not so much. They have to drink, because they cannot control it. Instead, it controls them. What starts out as one drink, turns into two, three and soon the person is feeling tipsy, buzzed, and then full-blown drunk. 

God says about alcohol, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.”  (Proverbs 20:1)

Have you ever been a little woozy or totally drunk? Are you able to go a day, week or month without a drink and have no physical symptoms? After drinking have you ever quietly passed out like Noah, or became loud, obnoxious and abusive around others?

If you cannot go without alcohol, then it has a grip on you. I urge you to get help. Recognize you have a problem. 

Some people go to great lengths to make the Bible sound as if God supports the abuse of alcohol. They are terribly mistaken! The practice of drunkenness is condemned by God. The Scripture says, “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery…” (Ephesians 5:18) And what is drunkenness? Our laws may equate blood alcohol concentration with certain numbers, but according to God, drunkenness occurs when alcohol hits the blood stream and it begins to intoxicate you affecting your mind and body. God’s view of drunkenness is much different than ours. 

You have a choice. You do not have to be a slave to the bottle. You can be free, and freedom begins with Jesus. He died and rose again that through Him you might overcome. If you need help do these three things. First, call upon Jesus with all your heart to be delivered. Second, contact a local pastor. Third, call 1-800-662-4357, which is a national alcohol treatment hotline. 

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray for the one who is controlled by alcohol. Let this be the start of a new day for them. Bring them to confess their sin of drunkenness to you. May they reach toward the heavens in totally brokenness, crying out to you for complete and instant deliverance. Do a miracle today, O God! In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Hate: The Seeds of Racism

 

“From Israel, Africa to America and around the world, during the history of mankind, racism has been responsible for the senseless killings of millions, upon millions of people.”

In 1994 there began one of the most horrific national genocides in the African nation of Rwanda. In a period of 100 days, nearly 1,000,000 people were murdered, mostly members of the Tutsi tribal population, by the opposing Hutu tribe. My wife and I watched the movie, Hotel Rwanda, which portrayed the story of the slaughter. It was heart-wrenching. The killers and victims were both Africans, both Rwandans, but some belonged to one tribe, and some of another. Africans would call this tribalism, toward Jews it would be antisemitism and in America, we would call it racism. (Photo by Peter Forster on Unsplash)

From Africa to America and around the world, during the history of mankind, racism has been responsible for the senseless killings of millions, upon millions of people. It has risen where tyrants have asserted their power based on race or ethnicity, then used it to divide and conquer, by oppressing or enacting revenge upon their enemies, who were racially or ethnically different from them.

In the beginning it was not this way. Where did this evil come from?

The God of heaven and earth, who fashioned mankind together said, “God created man in his own image…male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:27) Notice how God makes a distinction regarding the two sexes, but makes no mention of race or ethnicity. Yes, they were created with a specific skin color, but God saw no value in highlighting it because He looked beyond that. Furthermore, after God finished creating, He called everything “good.” Therefore, the color He created our first parents, Adam and Eve, He took pleasure in.

But the moment our first parents rebelled against their Creator, everything changed. They instantly became separated from God and all His goodness, and became filled with a moral darkness. This depravity forever changed mankind.

Soon this new evil revealed itself with history’s first murder. Cain and Abel were brothers with the same parents, Adam and Eve. Despite that, there was a difference between them. A religious one. The way Abel worshipped the Lord God, was acceptable to Him, but the way Cain worshipped the Lord, was rejected by Him. Due to this difference, Cain looked down upon Abel and his heart became bitter and angry. At the same time, God said to Cain, “…sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.” (Genesis 4:7) He rejected God’s Words and eventually, this anger turned into hate where he struck down his own brother in cold blood.

What was the cause of this horrible incident? Hate-filled differences. This is the seed that gives birth to racism. Differences do not divide us. Blacks and whites can live side by side. Jews and Muslims can co-exist. Christians and atheists can work together. The differences are not the problem, hate is. When a person begins to see the differences as a liability, and it leads them to become jealous, angry and oppressive – that is when the evil of division takes root.

The gospel of Jesus Christ takes direct aim at this, when Jesus stated, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew. 22:37-39) A fully devoted love for God and our fellow man, can destroy racism from the face of the earth. How? Because divine love poured into the heart of man, celebrates racial differences and sees the beautiful creation of God in it. However, racism seeks only the love of self, and to dismantle and destroy.

Jesus came to our divided human population, filled with so many differences, to change our hearts. He died and rose again to wash us of hate, and fill us with a holy and perfect love toward one another.

A prayer for you – Lord God, examine our hearts to see if any of our differences with others have sprouted into hate for them. Let us no longer be held captive by anger for others. Instead, fill our hearts with love for you and our neighbors. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thankfulness for The People We Denounce

 “What if a white man could give God thanks for a black man, and likewise, a black man for a white man?”

Our eyes light up when we see our holiday table filled with multitudes of Thanksgiving favorites. Moist and flavorful turkey. The best homemade mash potatoes. Warm and buttery dinner rolls, tasty desserts, and much more. Then before we start passing the food and filling up our plates, we offer a prayer of thanks to God. And our prayer, like the food on our table, is often filled with things we like and are grateful for. Obviously, it would seem odd to pray about things we do not care for, and to sit down at a dinner table overflowing with food we do not like. (Photo by Pro Church Media on Unsplash)

However -- what if we could learn to be thankful for those things we look down on? Let me explain.

Peter was a close disciple of Jesus. One day he fell into a trans-like state and saw a great sheet coming down from heaven. On it were all sorts of animals. Then a voice was heard that said, “‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ But Peter said, ‘By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.’ And the voice came to him again a second time, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.’” (Acts 10:13-15) This vision with the sheet repeated itself three times, then Peter woke up and wondered what it all meant.

About the same time some men came to the house where Peter was staying, looking for him. After visiting with them, the next day Peter travelled with the men to the home of Cornelius, the Roman centurion who inquired of him.

Shortly after arriving Peter addressed the group gathered in Cornelius’ home, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean.” (Acts 10:28)

Peter realized how God used the sheet of animals to teach him something. He learned how the people he rejected, because they were a different race and religion than him, were created by God just like the Jewish people were. He learned how God wanted him to go to the non-Jews, and befriend them so they could hear the good news of Jesus.

It is written, “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving…” (1 Timothy 4:4) Peter came to realize that God made both the Jews and non-Jews, and both are good and to be given thanks for.

When it comes to being thankful, we tend to be thankful for only those things we view as good, and are ungrateful for those things we reject and look down upon, like Peter did. Through the power of the Lord God though, Peter was able to change and give thanks for that which he once despised.

Racial differences are a point of division in our modern world. But imagine with me if hearts were changed like Peter’s? What if a Jew could give God thanks for the Arab, and the Arab for the Jew? What if a white man could give God thanks for a black man, and likewise, a black man for a white man? Imagine if a person of one race, saw a person of another race, not as someone to be rejected and looked down upon, but as a person created by God and someone to be given thanks for?

Jesus’ life, death and resurrection all served to enable this. When a person enters into a covenant relationship with Him, they are instantly filled with the love of God. This causes them to be thankful for that which they used to be ungrateful, and compels them to lovingly serve those people whom they once rejected.

A prayer for you – Lord God, this Thanksgiving help us to be thankful for the things in life and the people in life, whom we have previously rejected. For you have made all things, and called them good. Fill our hearts with your Spirit, so we can love others as you do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

When We Make Men Into Gods

 

“No human, no matter how gifted they are can give us what we ultimately seek.”

When I was a teenager, I loved playing basketball. Dr. J and Michael Jordan were my favorite NBA players. While living in Colorado, I was fortunate to have my dad take me to see each of them play at McNichols Arena in Denver. Those are incredible memories. (Image from gq.com)

Like one of many sports fans, we often stand in awe of the talent these athletes have. Let me ask this question. Do you think we ever exalt these amazing athletes beyond what is reasonable? Let me ask another. Do we do this in other areas too? Where a person has a special talent or is in a great position of influence and power, do we at times hold them up too high?

When the burdens of life weigh on us, by instinct we look around for a type of savior to give us the help, relief or answers we seek.

• We look to the athlete, musician or movie actor to give us hope and moments of joy.
• We look to the doctor to take away our pain and cure our sickness or disease.
• We look to a political leader to give us national peace and prosperity.
• We look to the business person to give us a job and income.
• We look to the preacher to give us answers and provide our life meaning and direction.

What are we doing? We are exalting mankind above God. We trust in the person and their abilities and knowledge to help us, rather than God. We thank and celebrate the person for what they have done, rather than God. Do we somehow think God does not see this and will not take it to account?

People in these roles have worked hard, been blessed by God with special talents, but in the end, are just people. They are not infallible machines or products, but human beings like the rest of us. When we place our trust in them, we will find that eventually our team will lose, the movie will end, the doctor will not find a cure, the politician will fail us, the business will lay us off and the preacher will disappoint us. No human, no matter how gifted they are can give us what we ultimately seek.

It is good to learn from others, and to enjoy and celebrate their abilities, but when we begin looking to mere mortals for the things we ought to look toward our Creator God for, we cross a dangerous line. It is written in the Scriptures, “For the wisdom of this world is folly with God” (1 Corinthians 3:19). Furthermore, “…let no one boast in men” (3:21).

The Scriptures teach us that God is the only source of true hope for all humanity. He is our ultimate Healer. He is our Defender. He is our Provider. He is the Giver of Life. No man, woman, team, program, weapon, set of ideals, principles, systems can be an adequate savior for the burdens we bear and the wrongs we have done. It is foolish to think otherwise.

There is only one Savior. He created each of us with our unique talents, and one day all humankind will kneel before the great Savior and Judge, who is the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Who are you trusting in for the things in this life and the next? Are you trusting in yourself or in others? I urge you to trust in the one above all – Jesus.

A prayer for you - Lord God, examine our hearts to see if we have lifted anyone in our lives above you. Show us if we are trusting in another, for what we ought to be trusting in you for. Jesus, come and be our one and only Savior and Lord. Help us to turn from our ways and to you with all our heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

The Love Generation

“Obedience is doing what God

commanded us to, because of love.”

Occasionally, my wife and I like to get away and take short road trips to explore. When we go, I enjoy learning about the churches and the religious state of the community. On one trip I noticed online many references to a particular church. When I looked at their website I read about an essential value of the congregation, “A place where love comes first.” Their site featured rainbow colors different places and other words like equality and justice. (Image from fccstjo.org)

The church’s use of the word “love” caused me to stop and think, “What do they mean by love?” And as I viewed other things on their site, I saw additional values like kindness and respect. But as I took it all in, there was something glaringly absent. Where was the value of obedience to God’s Word?

In the end, it led me to wonder if the church believes that people who do good works, stand up for what they believe is right, and are sincere, that God’s grace will cover them and they will have an eternal home in heaven – even if they do not obey.

Is this true?

Days before Jesus’ death, He was spending time with His disciples, preparing them for what was to come, and for the time when He would no longer be with them. He stressed the importance of obedience saying, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments…,” as well as, “Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me,” and “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word…,” and finally “Whoever does not love me does not keep my words.” (John 14:15,21,23-24) Jesus, the Master Teacher, was emphasizing an essential truth to His disciples – obedience does matter.

But observe the kind of obedience Jesus talked about. It was not mere rule keeping. It was an obedience that springs from a heart of love. Not a romantic love that is just a feeling, but a love that is rational, deliberate and sacrificial, willing to lay down its life, just like Jesus did through the cross.

Many of today’s top musical artists feature songs centered on love between boyfriends and girlfriends. In Christian music circles, artists also sing about love, but it is about God’s love. And on Sunday mornings in America, some pastors will speak to their congregations about love through God’s promises and principles, highlighting that if they are followed, it can lead to a prosperous life. Additionally, there is a movement across the country emphasizing the phrase, “love wins.”

Today, we have a generation of people that have elevated words and feelings, above truth. The true Christian life is rooted in a sacrificial love that is shown in daily obedience to the Word of God, by the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It is a love that is demonstrated through a life of holiness and faithfulness to God.

This is so important. Eternal souls are at stake. Every one of us is heading toward an appointment with God our Creator on Judgment Day. This should instill a healthy fear of God and sense of accountability within each of us. When the Lord Jesus will examine us, are we just going to offer Him words and feelings in defense of ourselves? Jesus predicts this will happen. He once said people will come to Him on that day and cry out, “Lord, Lord’’ and He will reply, ‘Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and not do what I tell you?” (Luke 6:46)

Obedience is doing what God commanded us to, because of love. And where does this obedience start? It begins by obeying Jesus’ call to repentance, which is turning from what we know is wrong and to God with all our heart. It is there, we enter into a covenant love with our Creator.

A prayer for you - Lord God, help us to go beyond thinking that love for you is merely about words and feelings. Give us understanding that love for our Savior is shown through faithful obedience; always doing what you say no matter the cost. In Jesus’ name. Amen.       

 

Condemning The Evil on October 7th

"When a sovereign nation is attacked, does it have the right to defend itself and pursue their attackers, in order to protect their nation and bring their enemies to justice?"

On December 7, 1941 the United States was attacked by the Japanese military, when they struck an American naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. In response, America launched its own strike on Japan. On September 11, 2001 the United States was attacked by Islamic terrorists, when they destroyed the Twin Towers in New York City, hit the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. and downed a plane filled with people in a rural area of Pennsylvania. In response, the American military began an effort to hunt down and bring to justice those responsible for training and sending the suicide hijackers. On October 7, 2023 the nation of Israel was attacked by Hamas, a Palestinian Islamic terrorist group. In response, Israel began an effort to defend its country and hunt down those responsible for the massacre of its civilians. (Image by Securityweek.com)

When a sovereign nation is attacked, does it have the right to defend itself and pursue their attackers, in order to protect their nation and bring their enemies to justice?

This addresses the role of government. The Scripture says, “…if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer.” (Romans 13:4) The government bears the sword of justice, and has a responsibility to wield it against enemies who seek to attack it from within or without. And when an enemy does such a thing, they violate God’s great commandment, “‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Love does no wrong to a neighbor…”  (Rom. 13:9-10)

Israel is recognized by the United Nations as a sovereign country, just as the United States, Canada, Mexico and all 193 members are, which make up the international body. However, it is also understood that there is a long and complex history between Israel and the Palestinians. For the struggle between the two is deeply rooted in ancient beliefs going back thousands of years. Though we see the physical battles in the news, at its root, it is a spiritual battle.

In the midst of this ongoing struggle, our world is often divided between their support of Israel and the Palestinians. For many, they paint Israel as the oppressor and Palestinians as the oppressed, and therefore, whatever aggressive actions the Islamic terrorists take, it is justified, because their white oppressors have brought it upon themselves.

Unfortunately, there are Christian denominational leaders who take this position, and their ideology has led them to publish weak statements in directly condemning the deadly attacks by Hamas on October 7^th. How can this be? For God Himself says, “You shall not murder.” (Exodus 20:13) He also states specific things He hates, which are an abomination to Him “…hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil…” (Proverbs 6:16-18) Based on the Scriptures, there was no justification for the direct and intentional murder of the Israeli civilians. To murder unarmed men and women pleading for their lives to be spared is detestable. To burn them alive, while they are attempting to find safety is unconscionable. To decapitate the heads of infants is abominable. The God of heaven and earth hates such despicable acts.

What kind of evil ideology could lead someone to believe Hamas is justified for these atrocities? Only a dark and twisted mind could. May God have mercy, not only on those who refuse to bluntly condemn such evil, but those who praise it.    

Additionally, may God have mercy on those who planned and engaged in these Satanic acts. And yes, mercy is possible. God hates and is angry with such evil, but for those who repent and turn to His beloved Son by faith, there is forgiveness. Even for the gravest of sins, the possibility of forgiveness is real.          

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray for peace in the war between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic terrorists. May those who planned and carried out these barbaric acts be stopped. And in the midst of the darkness, may the light of Jesus shine. Bring His saving power both to the Jews and Arabs in Israel and Palestine. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Unthinkable Acts of Evil

"Have you ever witnessed such an unthinkable act of evil, where it caused you to wonder, “What kind of person would do an utterly detestable thing like that?” or “What would cause someone to even consider doing something so horrendous?"

If that crosses your mind when unconscionable events happen, that is a good thing. It means you actually have some sense of a moral conscience, versus those who excuse or praise the perpetrators of extreme lawlessness. (Image by CBS Studios)

A long time ago in the ancient land of Israel, while a man and his wife were traveling, they turned off to spend the night in an unfamiliar town. A man who lived there took them in. While they were having dinner word spread across town of the visitors.

The Bible recounts, “the men of the city, worthless fellows, surrounded the house [and began] beating on the door…” (Judges 19:22) The mob of men were demanding the visiting man be given to them, for they wanted to have relations with him. As the mob became louder and more threatening, the owner of the house tried negotiating to no avail. Finally, as tensions grew the visitor grabbed his wife, pulled her toward the door, then opened it and pushed her out.    

All night long, the mob violated the visitor’s wife. It was a vicious gang rape, where the woman had no one to defend her. And during all this, her heartless husband was able to sleep. When he rose in the morning to continue their travels home, he found his wife’s lifeless body lying in front of the door.

When news of this event spread across the nation of Israel, how did the people respond? They said, “Such a thing has never happened or been seen from the day that the people of Israel came up out of the land of Egypt until this day…” (Judges 19:30)

What they were saying in plain language is, “We have never seen such evil.”

In the story we see a husband not only failing to protect his wife, but pushing her into a mob of sexually charged men, knowing they were going to violently abuse, and possibly kill her.

The men who perpetrated the horrific act against this defenseless woman, were pure evil. In the end, there was no conscience with her callous husband, and no conscience with the animal-like men.

Where does such evil come from?

It all goes back to the origin of mankind. In the beginning, the God of heaven and earth created man and woman, and the world was perfect. There was no violence or lawlessness, but only peace and perfect love with God and one another. But then in a tragic turn of events, mankind rejected his Creator. This rejection threw wide open the door of the human heart and society, to invite abject evil into our world.

Yet, although humankind turned its back on God, He pursued man to restore him to what he once was. This is why God sent His only Son to die and rise again on a cross, that those who trust in Him would be redeemed. And what is observed throughout human history, is whenever man has restored that broken covenant relationship with God, there is peace and perfect love, but when God is rejected violence and evil increase.

For never do those who love God and love others engage in horrific acts of evil. Never! But those who forcefully try and stomp out anything of Almighty God, His glorious Son, and refuse to obey His voice, they are prone to the unthinkable.   

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray for those who have engaged in detestable acts. May they, and those who support them, not excuse their evil. May their eyes be opened before you to the things they have done. Then Lord, have mercy on them. Bring them to cry out to you with a humble spirit, that they might be transformed into a new person by your holy power. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

How to Support Someone Who Is Suicidal

“In the last 20 years, suicides have grown by 40% in America. Over 100 people every day are choosing to end their life this way.”

Ed was carrying a load on his shoulders, the heaviest of his life. He did not know how to face it, so he turned to a reliable friend, Mr. Alcohol. One night he was so overwhelmed he prepared himself to end it all. He went to the store and purchased the biggest case of beer he could buy then walked to the railroad tracks, sat down and began drinking. Fortunately, his life was spared and when I met him as a young pastor in my mid-20s and heard his story, I invited him to live with me. During that time, I came to know Ed as a friend and was privileged to be Jesus to Him during one of the lowest points of his life. 

In the last 20 years, suicides have grown by 40% in America. Over 100 people every day are choosing to end their life this way, from teenagers to middle-aged men. As a follower of Jesus, I firmly believe this is a spiritual battle at its core. The raging battle in the mind of someone considering suicide; trying to decided whether to live or die, is a battle between good and evil. Jesus once said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10) And who is the thief? The devil. He is the enemy which seeks to ruin lives, where Christ seeks to bring newness of life. When suicidal thoughts come, it is evidence of a desperate spiritual battle. 

Knowing that, how can we help fight the lies of suicide, by bringing the goodness of God to someone who is struggling? 

1.    Pray. Call out to Almighty God seeking His divine involvement. There is power in simple, but desperate prayer. “In my distress I called upon the Lord; to my God I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears.” (Psalm 18:6)  

2.    Share God’s Word. Like prayer, there is supernatural power in God’s Word. Read it to someone walking through great struggles. Text it to them. Use the Word like a skilled weapon to fight back any suicidal thoughts that may cross their mind. 

3.    Engage. It is vital to engage with those going through times of distress, for these times may precipitate suicidal thoughts in some. God says to “Be kind to one another…” (Ephesians 4:32) We show kindness to people by spending time with them. Invite someone in crisis into your home, or go to their home. We also can engage people through phone calls or video chats saying, “How are you holding up? I care about you and I am always here for you.”   

4.    Invite to church. Offer to someone under tremendous stress, to come to church and into the presence of God. Let them hear His Word taught, listen to the singing of God’s praises, and be around others that can join you in praying for them.  

5.    Offer professional help. Observe when it is time for the person you are concerned about, to meet with a wise and godly pastor or Christian counselor. But if that cannot come soon enough, do not wait! Immediately call 9-8-8, which is a suicide hotline that provides 24/7 free and confidential help. 

Each of these steps demonstrate what it means to “love your neighbor as yourself,” which Jesus taught. Through loving one another and the power of God, we can try to prevent suicide. Because Jesus has died and risen again conquering all evil, our hope is in Him. We cannot control everything that a suicidal person is determined to do, but we can control what we do, by reaching out to those under heavy burdens.  

A prayer for you – Lord God, open our eyes to family members and friends who are struggling today. Help us to show kindness and walk with them through their dark valley. Deliver them from any evil thoughts of suicide, and let them see the light of life in Christ. In Jesus name. Amen. 

America’s Suicide Epidemic

“It is a lie that one believes suicide is the only answer, when in truth, it only makes a tragic situation permanently tragic.”

Sandra was in her mid-20s when we attended the same church and were part of the singles group. She had a beautiful smile and a bright personality, but one day life came crashing down on her when she received word that her dad had killed himself. The news impacted our group as we grieved for her devastating loss. (Image by Freepix)

White middle-aged men, like Sandra’s dad, are the number one age group for suicides in America. And when it comes to our youth, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, “Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people in the United States.” And suicides are not just affecting our youth or our empty-nester dads, but all of us. In 2021 and 2022 suicide numbers have risen across nearly every age group, resulting in suicide being the 11th overall cause of death for Americans.

What is causing this epidemic that is snatching away our children, parents and grandparents? As a Christian minister I view this important subject through the lens of the Bible.

One of the ten commandments God gave us is “You shall not murder.” (Exodus 20:13) Suicide is the act of self-murder, however, God is the author of life, “God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female…” (Genesis 1:27) Because every person was fashioned together by Almighty God, and has the highest intrinsic value among all His creation, He would never then lead a person to destroy what He originally created and called “good.”
But why would someone take their life? It might be a soldier dealing with the trauma from military service. A teenager battling online bullying. A dad who lost his job and cannot provide for his family, or the stress of someone gambling away their life savings.

Nothing escapes God’s sight, “You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.” (Psalm 139:2) God sees and knows all. Therefore, He knows of the soldier’s struggle, the teenager’s wrestling and understands the dad’s crisis. And though God is filled with mercy and compassion, under no circumstances would He condone suicide.

So where does this idea come from? God provides insight saying, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? (Jeremiah 17:9) The thoughts of suicide come from a heart that is broken. It is a lie from out of this brokenness, that one believes suicide is the only answer, when in truth, it only makes a tragic situation permanently tragic.

Is there hope for those battling these demonic lies? The Bible says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13) Yes! Suicide is preventable. It does not have to be the answer. For God Himself is the hope their hearts so desperately need.

God defeated these lies of suicide when He sent His glorious Son to us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him, should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) Jesus came to die and rise again to fix the broken hearts of every man and woman, and destroy the lies they are believing, with the truth. He once said, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32) This freedom is available to anyone who is willing to turn from these lies and by faith to Christ with all their heart.

If you or someone you know is battling suicidal thoughts, have hope today. Seek out a local pastor, Christian counselor or immediately call 9-8-8 which is a suicide hotline that provides 24/7 free and confidential help.

A prayer for you – Lord God, rescue our nation from the plague of suicide. Overcome these lies with the truth, that in Christ every person can be set free. Bring troubled souls this hour to call upon you for help and deliver them O God I pray. In Jesus name. Amen.

It’s Time to Start Being Responsible

"One day all humanity is going to have to accept personal responsibility before God. Every person will stand before Him to give an account for their lives."

Were you one that got up for school when you were told or did you just lay there as long as possible? What about when it came to picking up toys? Did you easily comply with picking them up, or did you pretend like you did not hear? How about brushing your teeth, did regularly brushing come easy, or did you fight doing it every morning and evening? (Image from istock)

These are all small lessons of responsibility for young children. If boys and girls are taught responsibility in their early years, through the influence of their parents or grandparents, then they will be responsible adults. If a dad can teach his little boy to be responsible to make his bed on his own, then one day he will grow up to be responsible with more important things; like his money. If a mom can instruct her young daughter to be responsible in doing her homework, then one day she will grow up to be responsible with more important things; like the direction of her life. If small children are taught responsibility in the small things, then they will grow up to be responsible in the bigger and more important things.

Left to themselves, irresponsibility is normal for all children. That is why it requires the intentional and persistent effort to build responsibility into the child at home. The Bible offers this insight, “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways.” (1 Corinthians 13:11) What is one childish way? Irresponsibility. Consequently, the sign of adulthood is taking responsibility.

But what if a child was never taught this? Then he or she is likely to grow up and become a reckless, ungrateful and disobedient man or woman. They grow up to become their own worst enemy.

There was once a story of a man like this. His name was Jonah and God told him, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.” (Jonah 1:2) But Jonah had a strong will and resisted God, so he “rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.” (Jon. 1:3) Instead of Jonah accepting the responsibility and going, he became irresponsible and ran. As a result, he put his life and the lives of others in great danger. Finally, at his lowest point he came to his senses and said, “When my life was fainting away, I remembered the Lord, and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple.” (Jon. 2:7) Eventually, God’s patience taught Jonah responsibility, where he accepted God’s call and went to Nineveh where tens of thousands of lives where changed.

One day, like Jonah, all humanity is going to have to accept personal responsibility before God. Every person will stand before Him to give an account for their lives, and there will be no excuses or blaming others. God says, “The son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father, nor the father suffer for the iniquity of the son.” (Ezekiel 18:20) This means, we will all answer before God individually; not as a couple, a family or church, but one on one with the Creator God. Therefore, the guilt of our parents or others, will have no bearing on us before Him. Yes, others influence us, but ultimately, we are the ones who are responsible or irresponsible in the choices we make. It rests at our feet alone.

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray that people will raise up to take personal responsibility for their lives and eternal souls. Bring them to see the urgency of ordering their lives after the ways of God and to take responsible steps to do that today, beginning with placing their simple faith in you. In Jesus name. Amen.

How to Speak Words of Life

"And what are words of life?  They are conversations that build others up, instead of tearing them down."

When you scroll through your social media, do the words and videos you see build you up or tear you down? When you read or watch the latest news in what is happening, does it encourage or discourage you? During the last conversation you had with someone, did it strengthen or weaken you? (Image from Coachrye.com)

Let me ask, “What are our words supposed to do for others?

Look at what God has to say, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29) Whether we are posting something online, messaging someone, or communicating with a pastor, parent or friend; religious or not, this is God’s standard for us all. We are to speak words of life.

 

And what are words of life? They are conversations that build others up, instead of tearing them down. They are text messages that encourage rather than discourage. They are calls that strengthen instead of weaken our family and friends.

 

What are NOT words of life? Flattery. Meaning, when you say or post positive things about others, with an agenda. In other words, you want something from them. It is the same about manipulative words, where things are said to get what you want. Flattery and manipulation are not words of life.

 

Where do our words come from? Jesus said, “But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart…” (Matthew 15:18) The things we say come from inside us. If we give words of love, truth and blessing to others – it comes from within. If we spew out curse words, name-calling and hateful language – it too comes from within. The words we speak, truly reveal what is deep inside of us all. 

 

What do these words of life look like?

 

When a father was nearing death, he brought near his sons to speak future truth and blessing over them. Jacob spoke to one of his sons, Joseph, saying “The blessings of your father are mighty beyond the blessings of my parents, up to the bounties of the everlasting hills. May they be on the head of Joseph…” (Genesis 49:26) These are impactful words of life spoken from a father to a son that would be remembered for the rest of Joseph’s days.

 

In a different situation, there was a king that secretly abused his power through an adulterous affair, and then murdered the woman’s husband. However, God saw it and dispatched Nathan the prophet to King David. For approximately one-year, the king’s actions had remained secret--until Nathan showed up. Then he declared to King David, “Why have you despised the word of the Lord, to do what is evil in his sight?” (2 Samuel 12:9) These too are impactful words of life. How so? Because it exposed the treacherous actions of David, and gave him an opportunity to admit his failure, turn from it and seek the forgiveness of Almighty God. And because of that, he was able to live again.

 

Sometimes words of life come in the form of blessing and encouragement, while other times they take the form of rebuke and correction. In the end, they both seek to produce the same affect – life.

 

Our Creator desires all of us to speak words of life to one another. Yet, it is difficult because our natural tendency is to tear down. How can we change our ways and no longer use our lips to destroy, but build up?

 

The first step is admitting that we have fallen short. The second step is calling upon the one who created our lips, to transform us. This is why Jesus came to die and rise again, that we might be made new.    

 

A prayer for you – Lord God, we admit how we have used our words to tear down. We no longer want to use our words to do such things. From this day forward, by your power, we want o speak life toward others. Cleanse our lips and change us O God. In Jesus’ name. Amen.