God, Religion and The Human Soul

You were created to worship God, and it is through worshiping Him that you will find answers to life’s deepest questions, discover who you are and what you were made for.

– Clint Decker

Since our founding in 1776, most Americans have always been religious. This remains true nearly 250 years later. According to the most recent Pew Religious Landscape Study 40% of Americans are Protestant Christians, 19% are Catholics, another 19% do not identify with any religious group, 6% are agnostic, 5% are atheists, 2% are Jewish and 1% each are Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist. This means 62% of our nation’s 340 million people identify with some religious group. (Photo by Greg Rakozy on Unsplash)

Why are so many of us religious? Because we were made that way. The Bible says, “God created man in his own image…male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27) Since God Himself is a spiritual being, so are we. The evidence is found in our soul. It is said about Rachel, that when she was dying, “…as her soul was departing, she called his name Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin.” (Gen. 35:18) The soul lives on after our body returns to the way of the earth. But the soul is more than that. We ARE a soul and not just a body. It is written, “…those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.” (Acts 2:41)

Because we are these spiritual souls, we naturally ask probing questions. “Who am I?” “What is my purpose in life?” “Is there a God?” “Is there life after death?” “Why does God allow suffering?” All these and thousands more questions like them reflect our spiritual existence. Nothing else God created wonders about such things. The religions of the world point to this as well, for you were created to worship, and it is through worship you find answers to life’s deepest questions and discover who you are and what you were made for.

What is worship? The Bible says, “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!” (Psalm 95:6) To worship is to humbly submit yourself to something greater than you. That “something” is where you go for wisdom and guidance. It is where you go when facing times of crisis or when you are looking for meaning in life. Some worship through organized religion, while others may reject religion all together and even argue against the idea that God exists. But does that mean they do not worship? Stephen Hawking, a physicist and cosmologist once said “I regard the brain as a computer which will stop working when its components fail.” Hawking relied upon his own reasoning and his own mind for answering the questions of life. No matter if it is religion, nature, the universe or ourselves – our soul’s worship at the altar of something.

Considering that there are so many religions, and even those who reject God and religion; who is right? Since we were made to worship, is there one Being we were created to honor and submit our lives to above all others? The Bible says about Jesus, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities — all things were created through him and for him.” (Colossians 1:15-16)

You were made by God and created to worship Him! He sent His one and only Son from heaven to earth to show you Himself that you might believe in Him with all your soul. And your soul has tremendous value. Jesus once declared, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26) Jesus died and rose again for you. Your precious soul is of utmost importance to Him. Turn from your ways. Believe in Him with all your being. Come and worship!

A prayer for you – Lord God, in a world of so many competing religions and those who reject it all, show us the way. Let us see you high and lifted up above them all. Teach us your ways that we might understand and worship you with all our soul. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

A Message of Hate or God’s Amazing Love?

What people call “hate speech” because they are offended by divine truth, God calls perfect love. 

– Clint Decker

“Hate speech.” That is what one church attendee put on social media in response to my Sunday morning message titled, “The Destruction and Restoration of The American Family.” Then later it was censored by being removed from the church’s Facebook page. (Photo by Pixabay)

Since the 1980s the word “hate” started to become a politically and culturally charged word in the United States and around the world. Today we have “hate crimes,” “hate speech”, “hate groups” that have had a dramatic impact on our speech both in public and private.

What exactly is “hate speech?” Many public universities define this for students and faculty. Kansas State University, which is close to where I live states that, “Hate speech is speech that attacks a person or group on the basis of attributes such as gender, ethnic origin, religion, race, disability or sexual orientation.” Definitions like this should be concerning regarding potential bias. Can a man ever be a victim of hate speech due to his gender or only a woman? Can a white person ever be a victim of hate speech due to their race or only a person of color? Can a heterosexual ever be a victim of hate speech or only a person who is from the LGTBQ community? These are legitimate questions.

Policies and laws that define hate speech have incredible influence, but does that mean they are correct? Just because someone accuses you of hate does that mean they are right? Who is the arbiter of truth on this? I tell my nine-year-old great-granddaughter, “Pursue truth. Ask questions. Do not always take a person’s word for it – even mine. Look things up.” And then I teach her what is the source of all truth, the Bible.

Jesus spoke, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies…” (Matthew 5:43-44) Hating means you detest or have a strong hostility toward someone, which is strongly condemned. Hate is also defined through contrast. Jesus says to love instead of hate. Love means having a longing in your heart for someone that is demonstrated through selfless sacrificial service, especially toward your opponents.

Can true love cause offense? The pastor of the church I preached at decried my message when he texted me, “God’s love is for all.” We are so grateful for the blessings of Christ like the gift of forgiveness, the hope of heaven, realizing there is no more condemnation, being a child of God and so much more. These evoke feelings of love, joy and peace among all. However, when pastors only speak of the blessings of Christ to the exclusion of the cross of Christ, they mislead their congregations.

The cross is ugly. Jesus’ death and resurrection revealed how sinful we are, and the divine sentence of judgement all mankind deserves. When we speak of these things it naturally causes offense. Jesus expected this resistance when He said, “For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.” (John 3:20)

What people call “hate speech” because they are offended by what heaven’s merciful light has exposed, Almighty God calls perfect love. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave his only Son…” He lovingly gave His unique Son for the ugliness of our sinful disobedience, that we might humble ourselves, turn from our ways, place our faith in Christ and be spared God’s eternal wrath. Then in response, the marvelous blessings of Christ are lavished upon us without measure.

Let people call it what they choose but understand this. When you speak accurately about the uncensored truth of God’s Word, and do so with the right spirit, it is the most beautiful and merciful act of love you could ever do for a precious soul.

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray you will search our hearts for any hate toward others or even toward the hard truths of your holy Word. Then cleanse us from this darkness and fill us with your amazing love that we would believe your truth, and love and forgive our opponents. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Valleys of Defeat to Summits of Victory

When you look beneath the surface of Coach Wooden’s winning resume, you can see he was not always a winner. He has known tremendous defeat.

– Clint Decker

College basketball fans live for March Madness. It is about this time a particular name is remembered each year – Coach John Wooden, the legendary coach of the UCLA Bruins. (Image by optimism.ucla.edu)

He is remembered for the coaching success at UCLA, that most sports historians say will never be matched or likely even rivaled. It is an untouchable set of records. The ones most well known are the ten NCAA national championships in 12 years, 88 consecutive wins over four seasons and 19 conference championships.

Many fans of Coach Wooden might say he has been a winner throughout his entire life. As a player, he won championships in high school and college. As a coach, he had an 81% winning percentage covering 40 years of coaching along with the UCLA championships.

However, when you look beneath the surface of Coach Wooden’s resume, you can see he was not always a winner. He has known tremendous defeat. During the state title game of 1927 for Martinsville (Indiana) High School, he missed a key shot and lost the championship. Wooden says, “Losing that game was the most disappointing thing that happened to me as a player.” He started coaching a few years later in 1932 at Dayton (Kentucky) High School. His first season was six wins and 11 losses. It took him 28 years of coaching through the high school and college ranks before he won his first title. Then at UCLA in 1964, he captured his first of many NCAA national championships.

Like Coach Wooden, before we stand on the summit of victory, we often walk through the dark and lonely valleys of defeat. We see this as a pattern in the lives of historically significant people, including the giants of faith in the Bible.

It is written about Noah that he was “…a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God.” (Genesis 6:9)

Noah was called by God to build a boat (called an ark) that would be large enough to fit multitudes of animals, along with his family. Then afterwards torrential rains would fall upon the earth and flood it as a form of judgment because of the wickedness of humanity.

Some scholars say it took Noah upwards of 75 years to build the ark, which was constructed during a

a lawless time. The Bible says, “The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Gen. 6:5) This meant it was a very long 75 years. For the world at this point had never seen rain, nor a boat, so when Noah explained what he was doing it was likely he faced questions, doubts and ridiculed by his godless enemies. Yet, Noah persisted through it all, “By faith, Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark…and became an heir of righteousness.” (Hebrews 11:7)

When God closed the door after Noah boarded the ark and the rains started – it was victory. Then 40 days later when the rain stopped, the floods receded and Noah walked out of the ark to become the father of a new humanity and a new earth – it was victory.

The journey of Noah was not easy. God had him walk through some dark valleys before he could climb to the summit of victory. Why does God operate this way?

One word. Faith. God wants us to depend solely upon Him. Consequently, He takes us through circumstances where we are forced into a choice: God-dependency or self-dependency.

We thank God for the cross of Jesus. He modeled for us God-dependency on His journey to be crucified. And when He rose again from the dead, He provided a way for us to do the same. When we turn from ourselves, while walking through the dark valleys, and trust in Christ alone – we are lifted up to the summit of victory by the grace of God.

A prayer for you – Lord God, you know the dark valleys we are walking through. Help us to stop trusting in ourselves and turn from self-dependency and toward God-dependency. We cannot, but only you can. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

God and America’s Obesity Crisis

In the 1970s 13% of Americans were considered obese. Today nearly 70% are either overweight or obese. We have a problem!

                                            - Clint Decker

Based on government data in the 1960s and 70s around 13% of Americans were considered obese while less than 1% were defined as morbidly obese. However, in the 1980s and 90s waistlines began to dramatically increase. Today, according to USAFacts, obesity rates have tripled in America over the last 60 years with nearly 70% being either overweight or obese. (Image by myhealthcare.co)

This has given rise to over 250 health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, strokes, fatty liver diseases, some cancers, fertility issues, mental health problems and more. In 2016 over $260 billion was spent on obesity related healthcare, while in 2024 it increased to $385 billion.

We have a health crisis in America!

Where is the church and Christian ministries on this? Are we not pro-life? This crisis is leading to obesity-related deaths by the thousands and chronic related sicknesses by the millions. Our families, churches and communities are all touched by this.

Does God have anything to say about our health?

Jesus said, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:29-31) This refers to loving and serving God with your whole being, which includes your body. For believers, taking care of our body is an expression of our love for God. For when we do, we can more effectively serve others, whereas obesity limits us in different ways. Additionally, it is written “…whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) This is communicating that in all things, including what we eat and drink, we are to do for the glory (or honor) of God.

The goal of living a healthier life is first about God, second about others and last about you. It is not primarily about YOU looking good in the mirror or YOU feeling good about yourself. The Bible says, “Happy are you, O land, when your king is the son of the nobility, and your princes feast at the proper time, for strength, and not for drunkenness!” (Ecclesiastes 10:17) What is the purpose of eating and drinking? It is not for personal pleasure or self-indulgence, for that is where many of our problems start. Rather, it is to produce the strength and energy we need to serve God and others.

What are some practical ways we can fight against obesity?

1. Live with belief. Believe it is possible for you to eat and live a healthier life. No matter what your past failures have been. No matter what your existing health problems are. No matter what your genetics are. Believe that you can overcome.

2. Live with a plan. Turn your belief into action. Seek out a practical diet and exercise plan.

3. Live with a goal. Whatever you aim at is what you will hit. Set small reasonable weight loss goals.

4. Live with common sense. Make better choices. Eating smaller portions and fruits and vegetables is good. Eating larger portions and piles of cupcakes is bad.

5. Live for the glory of God. Do not live with guilt over your weight, nor compare your body to anyone else’s. Fix your eyes on Jesus and live for His praise alone.

6. Live with a persevering mindset. Know this will be extremely difficult but determine that you will never quit! Never!

Jesus came to die and rise again that we might no longer be enslaved by the things of this world. He created you and He knows the battles you face. In Christ, you have all you need to live a healthy life.

A prayer for you – Lord God, we ask for your help to begin living a healthier life. We need your enabling power. We are weak, but you are strong. Help us O God and grant us success. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

The Lord God vs. a Higher Power

Place your Higher Power up against the Lord God and see who wins

– Clint Decker

“Tom, do you believe in God?” I asked. “Yes and no,” he responded. “I believe there is a God, but I choose to believe in my Higher Power.” Most Americans still believe in God, but the numbers have been on a steady decline for decades. A Gallup poll reported in 1944, that 96% of Americans believed in God, but 78 years later in 2022 it dropped to a record low of 81%. Interestingly, when pollsters in another survey added a question about belief in a Higher Power, the numbers jumped to 88%. (Image by Clinton o. from Pixabay)

Billy Wilson, founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, included God in the 12 steps he wrote in 1938. Step 5, he penned “Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.” Before publication others advised him to describe “God” as a “Higher Power” that it might be more inclusive of those who are atheists, agnostics and nonreligious, so step 2 was written as “Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”

Alcoholics Anonymous Cleveland writes about this problem with God, “The word God means something different to just about everyone that is having difficulty with it.” The consensus of a Higher Power being something greater than yourself, covers a lot of area. It can be the god of your choosing like Allah, Buddhism, Hinduism or the God of the Bible. It can also be any type of force, universal energy, some inherent goodness, nature or a variety of other spiritual higher powers.

Many find comfort believing in a Higher Power because it gives them an alternative to how they were raised, brings flexibility to their beliefs and allows them to live how they choose. It is also not as offensive. Yet, in many cases their spiritual power has no clear description of who it is, nor what it does or does not do.

God bluntly speaks to this kind of belief, “They have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see. They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell. They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; and they do not make a sound in their throat. Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them.” (Psalm 115:4-8)

What is God’s alternative then? He says in verse 9, “…trust in the Lord!” He explains this more, “There is…one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” (Ephesians 4:4-6)

These are not my words, but God’s, who is the Supreme Being of the universe. He holds it all together. He is the Higher Power, for there is no one higher nor more powerful than Him. Yes, for many it is offensive because God’s words are exclusionary. That makes many want to resist, push back and argue against it. However, is it true? Test it. Place your Higher Power up against the Lord God and see what you come away with.

No matter if you are struggling with an ongoing addiction, the aftermath of a tragedy or overwhelmed by a crisis – God is your only true hope. He alone has what you need to overcome and persevere. The Bible says, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord…He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

How can we know this truth for sure? Because He sent His unique Son from heaven to earth to reveal Himself to all the world. Jesus is described as “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6) Jesus is what you and many others are searching for. Let Him be your Higher Power.

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray people would recognize you as the One True God. Help them with their questions and doubts. Reveal to them who you are. Show them your only Son. Bring them to believe in you with all their heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Where is Your Life Headed?

Today, you can choose to get off the wide path of destruction and step onto the narrow path of eternal life. What will you choose?

- Clint Decker

At 16 years old, Justin was a hard worker, loved to help others and had a passion for politics. That is why a candidate for Governor took a risk and asked him to be a County Chairman for his statewide political race. He wound up doing a tremendous job. He helped the candidate win the county, which also provided the highest voter turnout in the state. (Image by Pixabay) 

Tommy, also 16 years old, led a much different life. During one weekend, he played a role in slashing 34 tires. He became caught up in a bizarre tire slashing competition with other teenagers. People began filing complaints with the police, who launched an investigation. Soon Tommy’s mother found out, and with her direction, he voluntarily surrendered himself to police and was arrested.

These are two boys, on two paths filled with two kinds of choices. One destructive, one constructive. Across America, everywhere we go, every town, whether big or small, is filled with Justins and Tommys. The two paths bring very different results. One is a constructive life demonstrated by generosity, humility, integrity and a selfless spirit that puts the needs of others above self. The other path is a destructive life. It displays a narcissistic spirit which puts the needs of self above others. It shows impatience, arrogance and rudeness.

God’s Son, Jesus, spoke of these two paths, “Enter by the narrow gate” He said, “For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:13-14) He said there is a constructive path that leads to eternal life through Him. However, it is narrow, hard to follow and has few people on it. Why? Because there is a great cost. The path requires immense personal sacrifice. It demands that one love the Lord God with all his heart, with all his soul, with all his mind, with all his strength, and love others as he loves himself…including his enemies. That is costly, but the rewards are extravagant and immeasurable.

Jesus said there is another path, but it leads to eternal destruction, is wide, easy to follow and has many people on it. Why does it have so many? Because the choices are easy. You simply satisfy all your wants, needs and desires. You do not resist your urges or passions. However, the consequences are massive. One views the wide path as bringing freedom, but it actually brings slavery. One becomes a slave to their own destructive choices. It produces pain, sorrow, regret, guilt, shame and loneliness. Unfortunately, every one of us is born on this path. It is the default for all of us, because we were all born with selfish hearts.

So, what do we do? Each path represents a choice. God says to us, “Choose you this day whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15). It is never too late. Jesus came from heaven to earth and shed His blood on a cross, that you might be set free. He died and rose again to provide you a chance at a new life. Today, you can choose to get off the wide path of destruction and step onto the narrow path of eternal life. What will you choose?

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray you will examine each of our lives. Which path are we on? Show us O, Lord if we are on the wide road toward destruction. Open our eyes and help us in this moment to repent of our sin and trust in you alone for salvation, that today might be the start of new day for us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Finding True Love

The path of love is moving faster than ever, nearly 20% of couples are having sex within their first month of dating.

- Clint Decker 

We had known each other professionally through her work as a State Representative, and in my work as an Assistant News Director at our local radio station. We also were both youth workers at different churches. One day Kathe came to me and asked. “I’m starting up a community wide youth ministry. We need someone to help with evangelism. Would you like to be on the board and lead that?” After thinking and praying about it, I agreed. As we worked together building Detour Youth Ministry, little did I know, God had more in mind then reaching teenagers for Jesus. Romantic desires for Kathe began stirring within me, where eventually I found myself saying, “I have these feelings for her, but what should I do?” I had to decide where to go with all this. As I sought God’s wisdom, I realized she needed to know how I felt, and I needed to know if she felt the same.

We met for lunch, where I shared my feelings for her, and to my delightful surprise she felt the same. Then I asked, “I’m not interested in just dating, but dating with a view to marriage. Are you willing to start seeing each other with that understanding?” My request took her by surprise, but after some thought and prayer she agreed and on June 23, 2002 our lives were forever changed.

The path to love we walked had a set of moral boundaries. However, in today’s world that is a thing of the past. Instead, we live by desires, circumstances and whatever is convenient at the moment.

A government study revealed that 70% of today’s couples are desperate for true love, moving in together before marriage. This means the path of love is moving faster than ever. Another study showed that nearly 20% of couples had sex within their first month of dating.

In today’s relationships there is the first date, second date, the first touch of the hands, the first embrace, the first kiss, then sleeping together…all sometimes within 30 days. Where is the budding romance? Where is the love story to retell children and grandchildren?

We want, whatever we want…instantly. This includes love and happiness. But where do these fast-moving relationships without moral boundaries end up? Sometimes they lead to unplanned pregnancies, emptiness, disappointment, divorce or adulterous affairs.

Listen to the wisdom of God who says, do “not stir up or awaken love until it pleases.” (Song of Solomon 3:5) God is warning us not to awaken the passions of love too soon. There is divine wisdom in employing self-control over our urges, while letting the shrouded mysteries of love stir within us. Over time we allow it to mature, grow and become a blossoming beautiful flower that can be cut at its peak of beauty at just the right time.

God created us with the capacity for love. How do we know when to move forward and awaken this love? The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5,6). While walking on the path of love that is filled with ups and downs and turns and twists, we are to fix our eyes on Jesus and trust Him through it all.

Jesus died and rose again, so that we would realize He is all we need. When we walk the path of love without Jesus, we feel we need the love of a special person for meaning or significance. However, when we turn from our way and trust in Jesus with all our heart, then we discover something new. Jesus is all we need. We learn that the love of a boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse is a bonus. It is no longer something we are desperately searching for, because we have found all we need in Christ.

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray that you will help us to not go looking for love or pleasure in a person. Open our eyes and let us see that you are all we need. Lead us to trust in you with all our heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Wrecking Ball of Pride

How does God confront selfish pride? With the weapon of humbleness.

– Clint Decker

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18) There is good pride like when one puts forth their best effort to do an excellent job, or when a parent is proud of their child for displaying outstanding character in pressure filled situations. However, there is also an evil side to pride, where someone’s ego swells so massive that it becomes the cause of their own downfall. We have seen this too many times in politicians, athletes, actors, musicians, pastors and even in the common person on the street.

Not only can individuals have dangerous pride, but so can nations. There was once an ancient city that was an affluent and powerful force militarily, politically and economically. God said about them, “This is the exultant city that lived securely, that said in her heart, ‘I am, and there is no one else.’” (Zephaniah 2:15) These were dangerous words of pride, and Almighty God is an avenger toward it. For there is only one God and He will not tolerate any prideful competitors, albeit from mankind or other so-called gods.

How does God confront pride? With the weapon of humbleness. In His wisdom and sovereign power, He can patiently move to bring an entire nation or a single person to the end of themselves.

When God employs this strategy, to us it may appear as if chaos is breaking out everywhere. But to God He is strategically employing whatever is necessary to break our pride and humble us.

Global or national scenes can seem chaotic when wars break out, diseases are spreading, violent crime is increasing and morality, kindness and decency become the enemies of culture. And what about your own family or personal life when divorce hits or bankruptcy comes?

God said, “For my decision is to gather nations, to assemble kingdoms, to pour out upon them my indignation, all my burning anger; for in the fire of my jealousy all the earth shall be consumed.” (Zeph. 3:8) What makes God so angry? Pride! Because of mankind’s continuing stubborn and selfish pride, God in His anger at times, simply steps out of the way and gives people what they want. For governments, sometimes their own legislation and policies have brought chaos upon their own people. For families, sometimes their own moral and financial choices have brought chaos inside the walls of their own home. And unfortunately, innocent godly people have suffered because of the consequences of prideful people.

Why does God come against sinful pride? Jealousy. As you turn away from Him and toward other things, He becomes jealous for you. He wants you to turn toward Him, so He patiently stands with arms open wide, waiting for you. Yet in the meantime because you pridefully go after other things, violating His moral commands, wave after wave of chaos reigns down upon your life.

It does not need to be this way anymore! God’s ways are better than yours. He says, “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save.” (Zeph. 3:17) Will you make Him your God today? In your pride you have lost much, but God says, “…when I restore your fortunes before your eyes…” (Zeph. 3:20) What your prideful disobedience has ruined, God can restore. He can restore an entire nation or just one family. Both are equally precious in His sight. Take hold of this promise!

Will you stop fighting against God? Will you stop running? Will you stop trusting in yourself? Turn to Him and live. This is why Jesus died and rose again. To provide you a clear path to a new life in Him.

A prayer for you - Lord God, let each person examine themselves and reveal if there be any selfish pride. Let them examine their lives and admit if there is any chaos of their own making. Then bring them to humble themselves before you and ask for mercy that you might forgive their sin and restore what disobedience has taken away. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

5 Valentine’s Day Truths

“Don’t sit around and wait to get some love, rise up and give some.”

On Valentine’s Day Americans are expected to spend over 20 billion dollars on cards, flowers, chocolates, date nights and more. It is advertised as the most romantic day of the year. For some, it is a day looked forward to, while for others, it feels like Cupid’s arrow flew right on by. Let me share with you 5 positive Valentine’s Day truths. (Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay)

1. There is good in your relationship status, whether you are single or married. If you are single and not dating, it is easy to feel like there is something wrong with you while others have girlfriends, boyfriends or are getting married. If you are married and going through a difficult period, it is easy to feel discouraged when you see happily married couples. In situations like these God teaches us that we can live with hope, “I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, because you have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul.” (Psalm 31:7) This Valentine’s Day, no matter your relationship situation, know that God sees you, therefore, choose to find a reason to rejoice in Him.

2. Don’t sit around and wait to get some love, rise up and give some. It is so easy to fall into the “woe is me” trap, hoping that your spouse or a special someone will come along and fulfill all your romantic hopes and dreams. Do you realize that others probably feel the same way? Jesus said, “…as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” (Luke 6:31) This Valentine’s Day, go give some love! Instead of waiting for something to come to you, go to others. Arm yourself with some notes, flowers or chocolates and go be a blessing to someone.

3. Understand the real purpose in dating. Breaking news! It is not just for an experience. A Pew Research poll found that 42% of single Americans are looking for some kind of romance. Millions will be going out on dates this Valentine’s Day, hoping to find some.

Those who date in order to find elusive romantic feelings or sexual hookups, are self-centered, and missing the point. Dating is a method to help search for a lifelong marriage partner. The institution of marriage was established by our Creator. During history’s first marriage He said, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife. And they shall become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24) On Valentine’s Day, do not go on a date just to fulfill some romantic desire, go with a vision for something more noble – marriage.

4. You were made for marriage and a family. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in 1970 71% of all household were married couples. However, in 2022 that number was just 47%. Additionally, the CDC says the birth rate is the lowest in our history, at 1.62 births per woman. We are below the ability to replace our population. How did this happen? By lowering the value of marriage and family, our Creator’s plan.

For some, you have the gift of singleness, but for most God wants you step into His beautiful design of marriage and family. This Valentine’s Day, respond to God’s most holy plan.

5. Follow God’s ways. It is hard, but the most rewarding way. The Bible says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17) Singleness, marriage and family are all gifts from God, but they come with great challenges. Do not let the abuse or heartbreak from others, nor your own foolish choices keep you from all that God has in store. Jesus died and rose again to take your sinfulness upon Himself. He has made a way for you.

This Valentine’s Day, turn from your sins and place your full trust in Christ alone. Love Him and live for Him with all your heart.

A prayer for you – Lord God, open our eyes to see the plans you have for us. Let us admit how we have turned from your ways. Today, help us to turn back to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Praying for The President

"I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have the United States in his holy protection." 

- President George Washington  

 
George Washington, the 1st President of the United States was a man of prayer. This spiritual discipline came about long before he was sworn in as President. When he was General of the Continental Army, he drafted a prayer for the new nation and had copies of it sent across the country to all the states and their governors. “I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have the United States in his holy protection, that he would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the Field, and finally, that he would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all, to do Justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility and pacific temper of mind, which were the Characteristicks of the Devine Author of our blessed Religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy Nation. Amen.” (Image by iStock)

Though our language has changed a little since 1783, you can see this godly military general and politician believed in God and understood the power of prayer for a nation.

We see an illustration of this in the Bible during a transition of power from David, King of Israel, to his son Solomon who would succeed him. Amid this, King David offered a public prayer for his country.

“…direct their hearts toward you” he prayed. (1 Chronicles 29:18) The old, wise king knew who was really over the affairs of his country. Therefore, he prayed that the affections of the people would first and foremost be toward the Lord God. If our hearts are bent chiefly toward a political party or ideology, then we are on a crooked path to an eventual downfall. However, if we fix our eyes straight ahead and walk according to God’s purposes, the foundation of our nation will be made secure.

David also prayed for the new king, “… may he keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all.” (1 Chronicles 29:19) The experienced King David knew who the author of blessing and cursing on his nation was. And He knew how to remain in a healthy relationship with the Lord God and how to follow His counsel in governing. He knew all these answers were found in the Scriptures and prayed the next king would give himself to knowing and following God through His Word.

As the seasoned king prayed, he was aware of the price of neglect. He knew that each person, his own son and the entire nation, could do as they wished. As a result, he warned them choose not to abandon God and go their own way. For there would be a high cost to the country if they did.

Pray for Donald Trump, our new President of the United States. As we do, let us also commit ourselves toward God. May our hearts be fixed on Him. Additionally, let us pray that President Trump will know God personally and walk in accordance with His holy Word for the welfare of his own soul and our nation.

A prayer for you – Father in heaven, at the beginning of this new presidential administration we pray for our new president and for America. May the people of our country direct their hearts toward you. May President Trump humble himself before you, place his faith in Christ alone and walk daily in holiness and obedience according to your eternal Word. May the church in our land be good stewards of the gospel of Jesus Christ, carrying it to all our citizens, that all might repent and believe. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Most Difficult New Year’s Resolution of 2025

Are we in control of our phones or are they in control of us?

Over four billion people have a smartphone, which is about 54% of the global population, according to an Internet Connectivity report. In the United States the percentage is dramatically higher, a Zippia research study identified that over 80% (270 million) of Americans own one. (Image by upliftfamilies.org)

In the last 10 years smartphone ownership has skyrocketed among U.S. adults and teenagers, and so has its dependency. Americans average almost five hours a day on their phone, which is an increase of 52% from just a couple of years ago.

The data is in. We love our smartphones and cannot imagine living without them! As technology has advanced, we can do increasingly more with them in our personal lives, through our job, as students and in our churches.

But who is controlling who? Are we in control of our phones or are they in control of us? The first thing we look at in the morning is…our phone. When we walk out the door to go to work or school, we do so with…our phone. During the day, we are constantly engaging with…our phone. When we come home in the evening, we regularly have in hand…our phone. The last thing we look at before we go to bed is…our phone. The Zippia study reveals that we check our phone about 96 times a day or at least once every 10 minutes. We are engaging with our phones more than we do with our spouse, children, friends, and for Christians, even God.

I have a challenge. It would be the most difficult New Year’s resolution. Would you be willing to reduce your screen time in 2025?

How are phones, as well as TVs, computers, tablets and video games affecting us? Not so good. A PubMed Central scientific study wrote, “Dependency on digital devices resulting in an ever-increasing daily screen time has subsequently also been the cause of several adverse effects on physical and mental or psychological health.” The report discusses issues like anxiety, depression, poor sleep quality, obesity, poor brain development in children and many other alarming concerns for adults and kids.

The Bible says, “’All things are lawful for me,’ but not all things are helpful. ’All things are lawful for me,’ but I will not be dominated by anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12) Are our electronic devices helpful? You bet! But are they controlling us? Yes.

Once God confronted a man over his anger saying, “…sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.” (Genesis 4:7) It is no secret. The inventors and marketers of our electronic devices want us to watch them, so they build them for the purpose of drawing you in. Your devices knock at your door every minute. Will you rule over its call to pick it up or will you refuse its desirable invitation?

Where do you start if you want to reduce your time on your electronics in 2025? 1. Set digital detoxes. On a weekly or even a daily basis, set times where electronics are turned off. 2. No electronics in bed. When you are getting ready for bed, turn off the TV and put down your smartphone. 3. A new morning routine. When you wake up, commit to getting out of bed before you look at your phone. 4. Create substitutions. Replace your screen time with reading the Bible or another book, playing a board game, face to face conversation, prayer, exercise, getting outside or serving another person.

It is written, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2) The Lord God, through Jesus Christ, calls people to set their minds upon Him. For in Him is life and peace. However, there is a raging battle that competes against this here on earth. Jesus came to die and rise again that we would have victory over these appealing and deceptive enemies.

A prayer for you – God of heaven and earth, help us to see our life through your eyes. Point out if we are spending too much time on electronics? Help us to accept the challenge for 2025 and begin to release the grip of these devices on our lives and fix our attention on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.