Positive Thought For 01-31-13

"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."  -John Wooden

Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.

John 15:5, NLT

My family had a tree in our backyard that provided two things: shade and countless jars of pear preserves. One day, I asked my mother why she made so many jars every year. Her response was, "If I don't, they will start falling off the tree and go bad." With that, I went outside to take a look for myself. There were pears everywhere--so many, in fact, that the tree branches were beginning to sag and snap under the immense weight of their fruit. It looked to me like my mother's faithful picking was encouraging the tree to produce even more! Jesus told his disciples that God acts as a gardener in the lives of those who claim him as Lord. He wants his followers to be abundant producers of good fruit, showing the world that they are children of God (see John 15:8). But this is not enough. Instead of simply harvesting the fruit that is produced, the Lord grabs a pair of pruning shears and begins to trim the branches. A little here, a little there, until he is satisfied with the end result. This process of subtraction is a good thing. For it is in these times that God rids us of attitudes and actions that limit our effectiveness for the kingdom. In their place, he grants new opportunities to exhibit love, patience, kindness, and self-control (see Galatians 5:22-23). As these values are acted upon, what started out as subtraction becomes addition, and more fruit is produced than before the pruning. If the branches are not pruned they may become weakened or stressed, and they will eventually snap. Once that occurs, the branches will wither and die because they are not attached to the tree, leaving wasted fruit behind. But the result of a life lived wholeheartedly for Christ will be an abundance of fruit--fruit that will last.

Follow God More Closely, By Doing What He Says

January 31, 2013

But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night.

Psalm 1:2, NLT

You can learn how to follow God by meditating on his Word. Meditating means spending time reading and thinking about what you have read. It means asking yourself how you should change so you're living as God wants.

Knowing and meditating on God's Word are the first steps toward applying it to your everyday life. If you want to follow God more closely, you must know what he says.

How You Should Love

Ephesians 3

18 And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.
  20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.21 Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.

Psalm 112

Psalm 112 *1 Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD   and delight in obeying his commands. 2 Their children will be successful everywhere;   an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. 3 They themselves will be wealthy,   and their good deeds will last forever. 4 Light shines in the darkness for the godly.   They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. 5 Good comes to those who lend money generously   and conduct their business fairly. 6 Such people will not be overcome by evil.   Those who are righteous will be long remembered. 7 They do not fear bad news;   they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. 8 They are confident and fearless   and can face their foes triumphantly. 9 They share freely and give generously to those in need.   Their good deeds will be remembered forever.   They will have influence and honor. 10 The wicked will see this and be infuriated.   They will grind their teeth in anger;   they will slink away, their hopes thwarted.

Matthew 4:19

Matthew 4

19 Jesus called out to them, "Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!"20 And they left their nets at once and followed him.
  21 A little farther up the shore he saw two other brothers, James and John, sitting in a boat with their father, Zebedee, repairing their nets. And he called them to come, too.22 They immediately followed him, leaving the boat and their father behind.

Crowds Follow Jesus
23 Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness.24 News about him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed—he healed them all.25 Large crowds followed him wherever he went—people from Galilee, the Ten Towns,* Jerusalem, from all over Judea, and from east of the Jordan River.

What Would Jesus Say?

What Would Jesus Say?
Jack Radcliffe
1/30/2013
In the wake of senseless killing and suffering, journalists, bloggers, and commentators left no stone unturned in their offering of opinions about why these things happen and what the best solutions are. As a nation, we seem to have spiritual bipolar disorder in times of tragedy. We turn to God for comfort yet at the same time decry his seeming lack of interest in keeping these things from happening.

Christian theologians and pastors find themselves defending God and explaining his nature. Our psyches have a difficult time believing in a God who is loving and all-powerful yet who seems to permit evil, doing nothing about it. Some will say these tragedies are the result of humanity’s sin nature. Others go a step further and claim them as God’s judgment on a sinful society. At the other end of the spectrum are those who see God’s reaction during times of tragedy and loss to be extreme sadness.

The problem with these claims (and ultimately everything in between) is that they are attempts to define the infinite (God) from the perspective of the finite (human). In our minds we craft a God who is fair and loving, who gives us what we feel we should receive, who wants good things for us and is there for us when we need him. This belief system falls apart when life isn’t fair, when we don’t get what we want and the good things we want from God never come.

And as is our wont, we blame God. Where was he? Why did he not stop this? We/they didn’t deserve it!

It would be nice if God took a moment to address these questions. Fortunately, he already has. Jesus’ teachings had a lot to say about tragedy that goes beyond the usual assurances (“God is present in the midst of suffering,” “God gives hope to go on,” etc.). These things are true, but there is more.

First, Jesus says that “here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows” (John 16:33, NLT), especially if you follow Christ. God doesn’t promise a carefree life. This is a false expectation that comes from a false understanding of God. Paul puts it this way in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: “We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed” (NLT).

Second, Paul can say those words because he trusts what Jesus says: “Take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NLT).

The circumstances and losses we face are but a small part of this life and this world. Evil may knock us down, but in overcoming the world Jesus has taken away evil’s power to destroy us completely. Here’s where it becomes interesting. While God cares deeply for what we go through, his primary concern is that others will know him (John 3:16).

When those who trust in Jesus experience healing and the power to forgive, they are not crushed, perplexed, or despairing. They have gotten back up, and their story points to the God who has made it possible not just for them but for everyone. There is purpose in our suffering that goes beyond us.

Jesus willingly gave himself to suffer and die for the salvation of the world. In this and his resurrection, he overcame the eternal effects of evil. When he invites us to follow him, he is asking us to do the same: give ourselves to the gospel—despite the discomfort, pain, loss, and suffering that may come—so that others can know him. It’s the greatest expression of love.

Positive Thought For 01-30-13

"It is not your business to succeed, but to do right.  When you have done so, the rest lies with God."  C.S. Lewis

Do Your Friends Build Up Your Faith Or Tear It Down?

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers.

Psalm 1:1, NLT

This Psalm begins extolling the joys of obeying God and refusing to listen to those who discredit or ridicule him. Our friends and associates can have a profound influence on us, often in very subtle ways. If we insist on friendships with those who mock what God considers important, we might sin by becoming indifferent to God's will. This attitude is the same as mocking.

Do your friends build up your faith, or do they tear it down? True friends should help you to draw closer to God, not hinder your relationship with him.

For Those Who Drink The Water Will Never Be Thisty Again

John 4 14 But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life."   15 "Please, sir," the woman said, "give me this water! Then I'll never be thirsty again, and I won't have to come here to get water."   16 "Go and get your husband," Jesus told her.   17 "I don't have a husband," the woman replied.   Jesus said, "You're right! You don't have a husband—18 for you have had five husbands, and you aren't even married to the man you're living with now. You certainly spoke the truth!"   19 "Sir," the woman said, "you must be a prophet.20 So tell me, why is it that you Jews insist that Jerusalem is the only place of worship, while we Samaritans claim it is here at Mount Gerizim,* where our ancestors worshiped?"   21 Jesus replied, "Believe me, dear woman, the time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem.22 You Samaritans know very little about the one you worship, while we Jews know all about him, for salvation comes through the Jews.23 But the time is coming—indeed it's here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way.24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth."   25 The woman said, "I know the Messiah is coming—the one who is called Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."   26 Then Jesus told her, "I AM the Messiah!"*   27 Just then his disciples came back. They were shocked to find him talking to a woman, but none of them had the nerve to ask, "What do you want with her?" or "Why are you talking to her?"28 The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone,29 "Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?"30 So the people came streaming from the village to see him.   31 Meanwhile, the disciples were urging Jesus, "Rabbi, eat something."   32 But Jesus replied, "I have a kind of food you know nothing about."   33 "Did someone bring him food while we were gone?" the disciples asked each other.   34 Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.35 You know the saying, 'Four months between planting and harvest.' But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe* for harvest.36 The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. What joy awaits both the planter and the harvester alike!37 You know the saying, 'One plants and another harvests.' And it's true.38 I sent you to harvest where you didn't plant; others had already done the work, and now you will get to gather the harvest." Many Samaritans Believe 39 Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, "He told me everything I ever did!"40 When they came out to see him, they begged him to stay in their village. So he stayed for two days,41 long enough for many more to hear his message and believe.42 Then they said to the woman, "Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that he is indeed the Savior of the world." Jesus Heals an Official's Son 43 At the end of the two days, Jesus went on to Galilee.44 He himself had said that a prophet is not honored in his own hometown.45 Yet the Galileans welcomed him, for they had been in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration and had seen everything he did there.   46 As he traveled through Galilee, he came to Cana, where he had turned the water into wine. There was a government official in nearby Capernaum whose son was very sick.47 When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went and begged Jesus to come to Capernaum to heal his son, who was about to die.   48 Jesus asked, "Will you never believe in me unless you see miraculous signs and wonders?"   49 The official pleaded, "Lord, please come now before my little boy dies."   50 Then Jesus told him, "Go back home. Your son will live!" And the man believed what Jesus said and started home.   51 While the man was on his way, some of his servants met him with the news that his son was alive and well.52 He asked them when the boy had begun to get better, and they replied, "Yesterday afternoon at one o'clock his fever suddenly disappeared!"53 Then the father realized that that was the very time Jesus had told him, "Your son will live." And he and his entire household believed in Jesus.54 This was the second miraculous sign Jesus did in Galilee after coming from Judea.

In Christ A New Life Has Begun

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

2 Corinthians 5:17, NLT

Pete Maravich was felled by a heart attack at only 40 years of age. "Pistol Pete" was a unique basketball player. Known for his phenomenal ball handling, uncanny passing, and deadly shooting, He set the college and pro basketball world on fire. He still owns a collegiate scoring record with 3,667 points in just 3 years, and he averaged 24.2 points a game during his 10 years as a pro. Through-the-legs dribbling, behind-the-back passing, 50-plus scoring, and floppy socks and hair were his trademarks. Just before his death, he finished his autobiography: Pistol Pete: Heir to a Dream. The book chronicles his love for basketball and his devoted practice as a youth. He would dribble the ball out the car window while his dad drove, and he would dribble blindfolded through the house. He even slept with the ball. The book tells of Pete's close relationship with his dad--and then of his own struggle with alcoholism and his mother's suicide. But the book also tells of Pete's conversion to Christ--a dramatic change for this sports superstar. In a newspaper interview published just weeks before he died, Pete said, "Jesus transformed my life. I don't want to put past tense on that because he continues to transform my life. I want to share that truth with people. I don't Bible-beat, I don't Bible thump anybody, because Christ is a choice. But I can tell people this. That it's the greatest life in the world. Your circumstances may not disappear, they may even get worse, but through him you can overcome." About his two sons he said, "Both of my boys, there's no doubt, have the talent that God's given them to play basketball. But for a different purpose, that purpose is to glorify God." Pete Maravich attained much in the world's eyes during his short life, but he said that nothing compared with knowing Christ. We who belong to Christ are new people! Pistol Pete's new life, as well as his death, should remind us of the truth of the often-quoted phrase, "Only one life--it will soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last." John 3:16-17

Don't Be Angry With God Because He Is In Control

"But who can teach a lesson to God, since he judges even the most powerful?"

Job 21:22, NLT

Although baffled by the reasons for his suffering, Job affirmed God's superior understanding by asking, "Who can teach a lesson to God?" The way you respond to your personal struggles shows your attitude toward God.

Rather than becoming angry with God, continue to trust him, no matter what your circumstances may be. Although it is sometimes difficult to see, God IS in control. We must commit ourselves to him so we will not resent his timing.

God Is The Beginning And The End

Revelation 21 6 And he also said, "It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life.7 All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.   8 "But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death."   9 Then one of the seven angels who held the seven bowls containing the seven last plagues came and said to me, "Come with me! I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb."   10 So he took me in the Spirit* to a great, high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God.11 It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone—like jasper as clear as crystal.12 The city wall was broad and high, with twelve gates guarded by twelve angels. And the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates.13 There were three gates on each side—east, north, south, and west.14 The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.   15 The angel who talked to me held in his hand a gold measuring stick to measure the city, its gates, and its wall.16 When he measured it, he found it was a square, as wide as it was long. In fact, its length and width and height were each 1,400 miles.*17 Then he measured the walls and found them to be 216 feet thick* (according to the human standard used by the angel).   18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass.19 The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones:* the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,20 the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst.   21 The twelve gates were made of pearls—each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass.   22 I saw no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.23 And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light.24 The nations will walk in its light, and the kings of the world will enter the city in all their glory.25 Its gates will never be closed at the end of day because there is no night there.26 And all the nations will bring their glory and honor into the city.27 Nothing evil* will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life.

Prayer Challenge

To my readers instead Of watching the news tonight I challenge you to give an hour of to pray to god and give him thanks for all the blessings in our lives also to lift each other up in prayer as brothers and sisters in Christ by doing this it will strengthen us as a family and as the body of Christ.

In Jesus name... AMEN

BFC - Tyler C. Sherck

New CD Releases For The Week Of 01-29-13

- Colton Dixon - A Messenger - Sparrow Records - EMICMG
- Byron "Mr. Talkbox" Chambers - Shine EP - Indie
- Rend Collective Experiment - Campfire - Integrity Music - Provident (Digital)
- Fiction Family - Fiction Family Reunion - Rock Ridge Music
- Various - WOW Gospel 2013 CD and DVD - Verity Records - Provident
- Da T.R.U.T.H - Love, Hope, & War - XIST Music
- JG - The Story - Indie

Positive Thought For 01-28-13

It's Monday everybody, here's the Positive Thought to get your week started off right:

"Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant."  Robert Louis Stevenson

I accept all blame in this matter, my lord.

1 Samuel 25:24, NLT

Abigail shows up in the Bible as a woman already in a difficult and dangerous situation. We know little of her past, but somewhere along the way, she married a poor excuse for a husband named Nabal. Marrying Abigail may have been the exception of wisdom that proved the rule of foolishness in Nabal's life. Abigail is an intimate part of the history of David of Bethlehem, who became the famous King of Israel. She proved herself a resourceful woman, a wise negotiator, and a noble wife. By the time we meet her, Abigail had become the acting manager of Nabal's household. We know this because when her husband made a very foolish decision, a servant immediately notified her of the danger. That servant trusted her to listen and respond wisely. Nabal's rude refusal to help David had placed the entire household in extreme danger. As you read Abigail's story, notice the integrity of her words and actions. She spoke truthfully and boldly. She backed up her wise words with practical gestures. Her immediate challenge was to diffuse an explosive situation. She gathered supplies that equaled or exceeded what David might have expected when he first approached Nabal. These she sent ahead of her as she approached David to negotiate. When Abigail met David, she accepted responsibility for her husband's thoughtless words and appealed to David's integrity. She drew attention to David's responsibility to God beyond his desire to seek personal retribution. She helped David see he would lose more by pursuing vengeance than by letting Nabal live. Besides, Nabal's previous offense had been erased by Abigail's generosity. All the while Abigail operated within the boundaries of her role as Nabal's wife. David was amazed over Abigail's practical wisdom. She had managed to create a win-win situation out of a dangerous confrontation. When she got back home, Abigail waited until her husband could comprehend the implications of his actions before she explained what she had done. The impact was so devastating that Nabal had a stroke and died. David didn't hesitate to take Abigail as his wife. She had demonstrated integrity and had been instrumental in allowing God to work in a complicated situation. She serves as an effective role model to all who desire to serve God with honor even under difficult circumstances.

If I have sinned, what have I done to you, O watcher of all humanity? Why make me your target? Am I a burden to you?

Job 7:20, NLT

Job referred to God as a watcher or observer of humanity. He was expressing he feeling that God seemed like an enemy to him--someone who mercilessly watched him squirm in his misery. We know that God does watch over everything that happens to us.

We must never forget that he sees us with compassion, not merely with critical scrutiny. His eyes are eyes of love.

John 7

John 7

38 Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, 'Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.'"*39 (When he said "living water," he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given,* because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.)

Division and Unbelief
40 When the crowds heard him say this, some of them declared, "Surely this man is the Prophet we've been expecting."*41 Others said, "He is the Messiah." Still others said, "But he can't be! Will the Messiah come from Galilee?42 For the Scriptures clearly state that the Messiah will be born of the royal line of David, in Bethlehem, the village where King David was born."*43 So the crowd was divided about him.44 Some even wanted him arrested, but no one laid a hand on him.
  45 When the Temple guards returned without having arrested Jesus, the leading priests and Pharisees demanded, "Why didn't you bring him in?"
  46 "We have never heard anyone speak like this!" the guards responded.
  47 "Have you been led astray, too?" the Pharisees mocked.48 "Is there a single one of us rulers or Pharisees who believes in him?49 This foolish crowd follows him, but they are ignorant of the law. God's curse is on them!"
  50 Then Nicodemus, the leader who had met with Jesus earlier, spoke up.51 "Is it legal to convict a man before he is given a hearing?" he asked.
  52 They replied, "Are you from Galilee, too? Search the Scriptures and see for yourself—no prophet ever comes* from Galilee!"
—————

[The most ancient Greek manuscripts do not include John 7:53–8:11.]
53 Then the meeting broke up, and everybody went home.

Positive Thought For 01-27-13

My Blindness Is Not The Center Of Me, My Lord And Savior Jesus Christ Is! - Me, Tyler C. Sherck

Put Your Faith In God, So You Can Withstand Any Storm You May Face

Satan replied to the LORD, "Yes, but Job has good reason to fear God. You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is!"

Job 1:9-10, NLT

Satan attacked Job's motives, saying that Job was blameless and had integrity only because he had no reason to turn against God. Satan wanted to prove that Job worshipped God, not out of love, but because God had given him so much. Satan accurately analyzed why many people trust God. They are fair-weather believers, following God only when everything is going well or for what they can get. Adversity destroys the superficial faith. But adversity strengthens real faith by causing believers to dig their roots deeper into God in order to withstand storms.

How deep does your faith go? Put the roots of your faith down deep into God so that you can withstand any storm you may face.

Always Be There To Counsel, Never Abandon A Friend

Proverbs 27 9 The heartfelt counsel of a friend   is as sweet as perfume and incense. 10 Never abandon a friend—   either yours or your father's. When disaster strikes, you won't have to ask your brother for assistance.   It's better to go to a neighbor than to a brother who lives far away. 11 Be wise, my child,* and make my heart glad.   Then I will be able to answer my critics. 12 A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions.   The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. 13 Get security from someone who guarantees a stranger's debt.   Get a deposit if he does it for foreigners.* 14 A loud and cheerful greeting early in the morning   will be taken as a curse! 15 A quarrelsome wife is as annoying   as constant dripping on a rainy day. 16 Stopping her complaints is like trying to stop the wind   or trying to hold something with greased hands. 17 As iron sharpens iron,   so a friend sharpens a friend. 18 As workers who tend a fig tree are allowed to eat the fruit,   so workers who protect their employer's interests will be rewarded. 19 As a face is reflected in water,   so the heart reflects the real person. 20 Just as Death and Destruction* are never satisfied,   so human desire is never satisfied. 21 Fire tests the purity of silver and gold,   but a person is tested by being praised.* 22 You cannot separate fools from their foolishness,   even though you grind them like grain with mortar and pestle. 23 Know the state of your flocks,   and put your heart into caring for your herds, 24 for riches don't last forever,   and the crown might not be passed to the next generation. 25 After the hay is harvested and the new crop appears   and the mountain grasses are gathered in, 26 your sheep will provide wool for clothing,   and your goats will provide the price of a field. 27 And you will have enough goats' milk for yourself,   your family, and your servant girls.

The Battle Is Already Won

He said, "Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's."

2 Chronicles 20:15, NLT

We may not fight an enemy army, but every day we battle temptation, pressure, and Satan who want us to rebel against God.

Remember, as believers, we have God's Spirit in us. If we ask for God's help when we face struggles, God will fight for us. And God always triumphs.

Get All The Advice You Can So You Can Be Wise The Rest Of Your Life

Proverbs 19 20 Get all the advice and instruction you can,   so you will be wise the rest of your life. 21 You can make many plans,   but the LORD's purpose will prevail. 22 Loyalty makes a person attractive.   It is better to be poor than dishonest. 23 Fear of the LORD leads to life,   bringing security and protection from harm. 24 Lazy people take food in their hand   but don't even lift it to their mouth. 25 If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded will learn a lesson;   if you correct the wise, they will be all the wiser. 26 Children who mistreat their father or chase away their mother   are an embarrassment and a public disgrace. 27 If you stop listening to instruction, my child,   you will turn your back on knowledge. 28 A corrupt witness makes a mockery of justice;   the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil. 29 Punishment is made for mockers,   and the backs of fools are made to be beaten.

Weekly Sermon: Faith That Amazes

Faith That Amazes

Positive Thought For 01-25-13

"Disappointments are God's appointments; he turns all things to good for those who love him."  David Jeremiah

The Prophets

The Prophets

They step off the page like something out of a science fiction novel or a fantasy--wild individuals wearing strange clothes, seeing mind-boggling visions, hearing God's voice, and preaching a bone-chilling message: Repent or you will pay. Who were they? They were the prophets--the men and women God sent to the nation of Israel (and occasionally to other nations) as his spokespeople.

Elijah was chosen as a prophet during a rough time in Israel's history--during Ahab's term as king. Others, like Isaiah and Daniel, were powerful men in the life of the nation. They held important government positions or served as the king's advisers. Amos, on the other hand, was a shepherd and gardener.

The prophets were all unique and preached to the nation of Israel under a variety of circumstances. So, what did they have in common

First, they were God's appointed speakers. While the priests spoke to God for the people, the prophets spoke to the people for God. Often they called on the people to stop doing wrong and return to God. Time after time their messages were ignored, and Israel suffered as a result.

Second, the prophets preached two kinds of messages: (1) a warning of the need to repent or (2) a message about future events.

Many people claimed to be prophets, and sometimes there was confusion over who to believe when the 'prophets' disagreed. There were, however, tests used to determine who was or wasn’t a true prophet.

• True prophets spoke whenever and whatever God told them to. They didn't dream up prophecies and oracles and then say they came from God. In other religions, pagan prophets constantly tried to manipulate their gods into doing what they wanted. That's what the prophets of Baal tried to do (1 Kings 18:26-29).



• Any prediction given about the future had to come true or the prophet was considered false. The Old Testament is filled with amazing predictions of events, sometimes many centuries into the future. An incredible number of them, especially those concerning Israel and the coming Messiah, have come true.

Live For God, Forgive Our Enmies And Pray For Them

Then hear from heaven where you live, and forgive. Give your people what their actions deserve, for you alone know each human heart.

2 Chronicles 6:30, NLT

Have you ever felt far from God, separated by feeling of failure and personal problems? In his prayer, Solomon underscored the fact that God stands ready to hear his people, to forgive their sins, and to restore their relationship with him.

God is waiting and listening for our confessions of guilt and our recommittment to obey him. He hears us when we pour out our needs and problems to him and is ready to forgive and restore us to fellowship with him. Don't wait to experience his loving forgiveness.

Take From The Fools, Give To The Wise

Proverbs 15

22 Plans go wrong for lack of advice;
  many advisers bring success.

23 Everyone enjoys a fitting reply;
  it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

24 The path of life leads upward for the wise;
  they leave the grave* behind.

25 The LORD tears down the house of the proud,
  but he protects the property of widows.

26 The LORD detests evil plans,
  but he delights in pure words.

27 Greed brings grief to the whole family,
  but those who hate bribes will live.

28 The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking;
  the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.

29 The LORD is far from the wicked,
  but he hears the prayers of the righteous.

30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;
  good news makes for good health.

31 If you listen to constructive criticism,
  you will be at home among the wise.

32 If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself;
  but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.

33 Fear of the LORD teaches wisdom;
  humility precedes honor.

Positive Thought For 01-24-13

"Though our feelings come and go, God's love does not."  C.S. Lewis

Becoming A Better Leader For Christ

After they arrived at Capernaum and settled in a house, Jesus asked his disciples, "What were you discussing out on the road?" But they didn’t answer, because they had been arguing about which of them was the greatest.

Mark 9:33-34, NLT

It's embarrassing when someone demonstrates he or she can read your mind. Most of us would rather not have our thoughts exposed. We're not proud of our motives. We don't want our intentions broadcast. The disciples had a problem--Jesus understood them. Just as he understands us. Every tactic we use in human relationships to avoid the truth is absolutely transparent to God. The fact that God knows us that well isn't amazing. After all, he is God. The fact that we still try to work our magic on him isn't all that surprising either. After all, we are human. It is amazing though that God knows us as he does and still draws near to help us be better than we instinctively are. The disciples were arguing about leadership. They were mind-wrestling over who could claim the top of the heap. They were all poised on the ladder to greatness, and thankfully we are not given the details on how ready they were to step on each other on the way up. Apparently the discussion ended in a draw. Jesus' question caught them by surprise. The subject of greatness suddenly didn’t feel right. Jesus broke the strained silence with a challenge. He gave them the ultimate measure of leadership: "Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else" (Mark 9:35). Apparently the silence resumed. The disciples neither argued with him nor asked any questions. We don't know how long this went on, but Mark records that Jesus spotted a little child in the vicinity and decided to make an additional point while holding the child. "Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me" (Mark 9:37). Are the two points connected? Perhaps Jesus was saying, "Do you really want to be first? Then start small." As you go about your day, think about whom you serve. How aware are you of people who are not being served? Can you see those who are overlooked? In the end, what do you find most important: being called a leader or doing what a real leader does? If our thoughts and intentions are to serve Christ, we don't have to worry about someone reading our minds.

Get To Know God

"But will God really live on earth among people? Why, even the highest heavens cannot contain you. How much less this Temple I have built!"

2 Chronicles 6:18, NLT

Solomon marveled that God would be willing to live on this earth among sinful people. We marvel that God, through his Son, Jesus, lived among us in human form to reveal his eternal purposes to us. In doing so, God was reaching out to us in love.

God wants us to reach out to him in return in order to know him and to love him with all our heart. Don't simply marvel at his power; take time to get to know him.

Fools Think Thier Own Way Is Right, But The Wise Listen To Others

Proverbs 12

15 Fools think their own way is right,
  but the wise listen to others.

16 A fool is quick-tempered,
  but a wise person stays calm when insulted.

17 An honest witness tells the truth;
  a false witness tells lies.

18 Some people make cutting remarks,
  but the words of the wise bring healing.

19 Truthful words stand the test of time,
  but lies are soon exposed.

20 Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil;
  joy fills hearts that are planning peace!

21 No harm comes to the godly,
  but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

22 The LORD detests lying lips,
  but he delights in those who tell the truth.

23 The wise don't make a show of their knowledge,
  but fools broadcast their foolishness.

24 Work hard and become a leader;
  be lazy and become a slave.

25 Worry weighs a person down;
  an encouraging word cheers a person up.

26 The godly give good advice to their friends;*
  the wicked lead them astray.

27 Lazy people don't even cook the game they catch,
  but the diligent make use of everything they find.

28 The way of the godly leads to life;
  that path does not lead to death.

Hospitality: Helping the Least of These

Hospitality: Helping the Least of These Scott Lyons 1/22/2013 Some people are wired for hospitality. I am not. Like some satisfied old bachelor, I am perfectly content in the solitude of my home. Some people have others in and out of their homes with such terrifying frequency that it makes me break out in cold sweats. I am a creature of routine. I do not like change, and I do not like others in my space. I like to read books and watch movies. I like playing with my children. I become too aware of myself around others. Hospitality is a discipline I am trying to make more prominent in my life. In the Scriptures and throughout the history of Christianity, hospitality is an important imperative. In spite of this, it seems to be waning among us. What are the reasons? They are varied and complex, certainly. While I do not want to place the blame of hospitality’s decline on technology, the way it has infiltrated our lives—from air conditioning to TV to smart phones—has enabled us to connect with the world while disconnecting from our neighbors. Of course, this is only one piece in the complex puzzle that is the human heart. Consider Abraham’s hospitality to the Lord: The Lord appeared again to Abraham near the oak grove belonging to Mamre. One day Abraham was sitting at the entrance to his tent during the hottest part of the day. He looked up and noticed three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran to meet them and welcomed them, bowing low to the ground. “My lord,” he said, “if it pleases you, stop here for a while. Rest in the shade of this tree while water is brought to wash your feet. And since you’ve honored your servant with this visit, let me prepare some food to refresh you before you continue on your journey.” (Genesis 18:1-5) Abraham’s hospitality is beautiful. Of course, we might say that if we knew we were entertaining the Lord, we would have no problems with hospitality. But Christ, knowing our hearts, gives a rather damning judgment of this kind of thinking when he speaks of the final judgment: “They will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you?’ . . . I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.” (Matthew 25:44-45, NLT). It follows that we are supposed to serve all those in need as if they were the Lord. The moral weight of hospitality in the Scriptures rests on the Golden Rule, which we find in various forms throughout our Lord’s teachings: “Love each other in the same way I have loved you” (John 15:12, NLT; see also Matthew 6:14-15; 18:32-35). The people of God have been strangers and aliens before, and spiritually speaking we are strangers and aliens even yet. We have been shown hospitality and mercy. How can we not show the same love through hospitality to others? So what do you do? Hospitality is a specific kind of service. Instead of going outside of your home to meet the needs of others, you invite others into your own home to meet their needs. And these people are often strangers. They are not people who have earned something from you or who deserve anything for some special reason. The stranger is not someone who has given you anything. Likewise, the stranger is not someone who is likely to repay you. Hospitality is motivated simply by graciousness, kindness, and mercy: love. Hospitality is seeing the man before you as Christ. It means abandoning your trust issues to the Lord and welcoming the man in. This is a difficult teaching. Consider the story of Jean Valjean in Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables. He is an escaped convict. A saintly bishop shows him hospitality, opens his home to him. In the middle of the night, Jean Valjean steals away, taking the bishop’s silver with him. Some police find him, and Valjean lies, saying that the silver was a gift from the bishop. When they take him back to the home to verify his story, the bishop does an extraordinary thing: “‘Ah! here you are!’ he exclaimed, looking at Jean Valjean. ‘I am glad to see you. Well, but how is this? I gave you the candlesticks too, which are of silver like the rest, and for which you can certainly get two hundred francs. Why did you not carry them away with your forks and spoons?’” This selfless compassion leads Jean Valjean to repentance. The bishop has purchased his life, redeemed it, with a pair of silver candlesticks. This is the meaning and power of hospitality.

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Positive Thought For 01-23-13

We're halfway through the week, and here's the Positive Thought for Wednesday: "I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love."  Mother Theresa

Aspects Of Praising God

"The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! May God, the Rock of my salvation, be exalted!"

2 Samuel 22:47, NLT

David praises God wholeheartedly. Praise is not just a song about God; is a song to God.

Praising God has several aspects to it. We praise God when we: 1-Say thank you to him for each attribute of his divine nature. 2-Focus our hearts on God. 3-Thank God for his many gracious gifts to us. 4-Thank God for our relationship with him.

Always Depend On God's Wise Leadership Because He Will See You Through

Proverbs 11

14 Without wise leadership, a nation falls;
  there is safety in having many advisers.

15 There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt;
  it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt.

16 A gracious woman gains respect,
  but ruthless men gain only wealth.

17 Your kindness will reward you,
  but your cruelty will destroy you.

18 Evil people get rich for the moment,
  but the reward of the godly will last.

19 Godly people find life;
  evil people find death.

20 The LORD detests people with crooked hearts,
  but he delights in those with integrity.

21 Evil people will surely be punished,
  but the children of the godly will go free.

22 A beautiful woman who lacks discretion
  is like a gold ring in a pig's snout.

23 The godly can look forward to a reward,
  while the wicked can expect only judgment.

24 Give freely and become more wealthy;
  be stingy and lose everything.

25 The generous will prosper;
  those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.

26 People curse those who hoard their grain,
  but they bless the one who sells in time of need.

27 If you search for good, you will find favor;
  but if you search for evil, it will find you!

28 Trust in your money and down you go!
  But the godly flourish like leaves in spring.

29 Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind.
  The fool will be a servant to the wise.

30 The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life;
  a wise person wins friends.*

31 If the righteous are rewarded here on earth,
  what will happen to wicked sinners?*

Devotional For Men For The Week Of 01-22-13

He replied, "I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked."

Genesis 3:10, NLT

It is almost impossible to imagine what Adam's life was like. He was first and one-of-a-kind: no childhood, no parents, no schooling, no guilt; close contact with God, perfect world, only one rule to follow. Life today is vastly different. Yet we can identify with Adam in many ways. Based on what little we know about him, it isn't unreasonable to surmise that parhaps: (1) he's embarrassed to admit mistakes and wants to avoid confronting his problems; (2) he and his wife often disagree on the way to proceed, and he gives in too easily; (3) his kids get into big trouble, spoiling many dreams for their future; (4) he works harder and gets less done as life goes on; and (5) as an older adult, all his labors have little to show except a small farm and scattered grandchildren. Somehow the verse above captures all the pathos in Adam's life. Awakened conscience smothers the desire for companionship. As much as he longs to be with God, he is ashamed of his disobedience. He has failed. He knew better but didn't act better. His awareness of being naked has much less to do with his physical nudity than it has to do with his guilt. But he reaches the wrong conclusion in thinking that when he can't see God, God can't see him. He thinks he can hide. Our own response to God in this way mirrors Adam's original. But with God, hiding isn't an option. Yet even Adam had hope. His basis for hope has to do with God's grace. Adam and Eve had disobeyed and drifted, but God came looking for them (Genesis 3:8). He knew the details of the disaster that awaited him, but he walked in the garden anyway. Genesis 3:15 offers God's first piece of good news: Satan will be defeated; a Savior will come. That promise gave Adam hope and still lifts us from the pits to the heavens, from "What's the use?" to "Praise the Lord!" When life seems barren and pointless, remember that even Adam had this hope. Jesus has come, salvation is won, and the Bible promises another coming (the Second) at the end of time, when all of our tears will be wiped away. Whenever you're discouraged, remember that. Remember, too, that as he did with Adam, God comes looking for you to correct you where you have erred and restore you to fellowship with him.

Instruct The Wise, Teach The Righteous

Proverbs 9

9 Instruct the wise,
  and they will be even wiser.
Teach the righteous,
  and they will learn even more.

10 Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom.
  Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.

11 Wisdom will multiply your days
  and add years to your life.
12 If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit.
  If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.

Folly Calls for a Hearing
13 The woman named Folly is brash.
  She is ignorant and doesn't know it.
14 She sits in her doorway
  on the heights overlooking the city.
15 She calls out to men going by
  who are minding their own business.
16 "Come in with me," she urges the simple.
  To those who lack good judgment, she says,
17 "Stolen water is refreshing;
  food eaten in secret tastes the best!"
18 But little do they know that the dead are there.
  Her guests are in the depths of the grave.*

Treating People Fairly

So David reigned over all Israel and did what was just and right for all his people.

2 Samuel 8:15, NLT

King David's reign was characterized by doing what was "just and right." David was fair in interpreting the law, administering punishment with mercy, respecting people's rights, and recognizing people's duty toward God. Is it any wonder that almost everyone trusted and followed David?

Justice should characterize the way you relate to people. Make sure you are fair in the way you treat them.

Positive Thought For 01-22-13

Here's the Positive Thought to get your Tuesday started off right:
 "When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares."   Henri J.M. Nouwen

Honoring MLK

Written By Jeff Wiehe The Journal Gazette - Fort Wayne

The preacher pointed to the fact that the congregation was soon to be celebrating a holiday in honor of a black man as a sign of progress in the fight against segregation in this country.
He pointed to the fact that another black man was beginning his second term as president of the United States as a great stride in the fight against discrimination.
But Timothy Lake warned a large crowd at Plymouth Congregational Church – gathered to honor Martin Luther King Jr. on Sunday night – that there is still work to be done.
“We have not yet arrived at what King called the ‘beloved community,’ ” said Lake, a professor at Wabash College.
Lake, a Fort Wayne native and Snider High School graduate, was the guest speaker at the 28th annual Service of Repentance & Reconciliation, a service put together by the Associated Churches of Fort Wayne and Allen County along with the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance.
The service, which honors King, is meant to promote equality, healing and unity as the famous minister – who was assassinated April 4, 1968 – did.
After his time at Snider, Lake studied at IPFW, Ball State University, Howard University and the University of Notre Dame before earning his doctorate at Bowling Green State University.
He has written several books about King and said during his talk that King fought for everyone’s inalienable rights throughout his life – rights that the congregation should never forget cannot be bought, sold or traded.
“We all deserve to live full lives and rise to the height of our abilities,” Lake said to a few hundred of various races and ages who packed into the church to hear the service, which also featured hymns, a choir, dancers and solo vocalists.
But he also told the congregation that King gave them an example to live by and that they should heed what he did when examining how they go about their own lives.
“You can’t just reduce Martin to words of love and non-violence,” Lake said. “What he gave us was the example of a committed life, and you should never take that too lightly.”

A Warning Against Hypocrisy

Luke 12

A Warning against Hypocrisy
1 Meanwhile, the crowds grew until thousands were milling about and stepping on each other. Jesus turned first to his disciples and warned them, "Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees—their hypocrisy.2 The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all.3 Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!
  4 "Dear friends, don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that.5 But I'll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell.* Yes, he's the one to fear.
  6 "What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins*? Yet God does not forget a single one of them.7 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.
  8 "I tell you the truth, everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, the Son of Man* will also acknowledge in the presence of God's angels.9 But anyone who denies me here on earth will be denied before God's angels.10 Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.
  11 "And when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and authorities, don't worry about how to defend yourself or what to say,12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said."

Parable of the Rich Fool
13 Then someone called from the crowd, "Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father's estate with me."
  14 Jesus replied, "Friend, who made me a judge over you to decide such things as that?"15 Then he said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own."
  16 Then he told them a story: "A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops.17 He said to himself, 'What should I do? I don't have room for all my crops.'18 Then he said, 'I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods.19 And I'll sit back and say to myself, "My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!"'
  20 "But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?'
  21 "Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God."

Teaching about Money and Possessions
22 Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, "That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear.23 For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing.24 Look at the ravens. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds!25 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?26 And if worry can't accomplish a little thing like that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?
  27 "Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.28 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
  29 "And don't be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don't worry about such things.30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs.31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.
  32 "So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
  33 "Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it.34 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

Be Ready for the Lord's Coming
35 "Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning,36 as though you were waiting for your master to return from the wedding feast. Then you will be ready to open the door and let him in the moment he arrives and knocks.37 The servants who are ready and waiting for his return will be rewarded. I tell you the truth, he himself will seat them, put on an apron, and serve them as they sit and eat!38 He may come in the middle of the night or just before dawn.* But whenever he comes, he will reward the servants who are ready.
  39 "Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would not permit his house to be broken into.40 You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected."
  41 Peter asked, "Lord, is that illustration just for us or for everyone?"
  42 And the Lord replied, "A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them.43 If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward.44 I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns.45 But what if the servant thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk?46 The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant in pieces and banish him with the unfaithful.
  47 "And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished.48 But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.

Jesus Causes Division
49 "I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning!50 I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished.51 Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other!52 From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against—or two in favor and three against.

53 'Father will be divided against son
  and son against father;
mother against daughter
  and daughter against mother;
and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law
  and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.'*"

  54 Then Jesus turned to the crowd and said, "When you see clouds beginning to form in the west, you say, 'Here comes a shower.' And you are right.55 When the south wind blows, you say, 'Today will be a scorcher.' And it is.56 You fools! You know how to interpret the weather signs of the earth and sky, but you don't know how to interpret the present times.
  57 "Why can't you decide for yourselves what is right?58 When you are on the way to court with your accuser, try to settle the matter before you get there. Otherwise, your accuser may drag you before the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, who will throw you into prison.59 And if that happens, you won't be free again until you have paid the very last penny.*"

New CD Releases For The Week of 01-22-13

Psalm 85:12

12 Yes, the LORD pours down his blessings.
  Our land will yield its bountiful harvest.

Psalm 85:11

11 Truth springs up from the earth,
  and righteousness smiles down from heaven.

Psalm 85:10

10 Unfailing love and truth have met together.
  Righteousness and peace have kissed!

Positive Thought For 01-21-13

Here's Monday's Positive Thought to get your week started on Martin Luther King Jr. Day:
"Take the first step in faith.  You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step."  Martin Luther King Jr.