Lest We Forget

John 19:1-3 (NLT) Then Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip. The soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they put a purple robe on him. “Hail! King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped him across the face.

I was immediately struck by this passage this morning – Christmas Eve 2010. “Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip.” Some have referred to this whip as a cat of nine tails. Out of curiosity – I looked this up on the internet to get more information of what it was. Basically… It was a whip that Jesus encountered before the he got crucified. It was called cat of nine tails because there were 9 strands and on the end of those nine strands were bits a pieces of metal or bone. These were placed there so it would dig into the skin and ripping it. Jesus got whipped 39 times. 39 x 9... do the math. It was designed to dig into the skin and rip it as it was pulled. I can imagine that it was a very painful experience. This hardly seems like the message that one would be writing about on Christmas Eve but I think it’s important to because it is the reason why He came in the first place – to suffer and die for our sins. We must remember what He did for us lest we forget the intense suffering He endured for each and every one of us. It’s a wonderful thing to think about Jesus as a baby but the reality is that He spent His life with one purpose in mind – to eventually die upon the cross as an atonement for our sins. As you celebrate His birth today – stop and ponder what His birth ultimately meant for you. Lift your heart in thanks and give Him praise today because He loved you enough to ultimately die for you.

Jesus Chose Me First!

John 15:16 (NLT) You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.

Most of us remember what it was like to play teams as kids for a number of different games which we’re always a lot of fun. It could have been for football, baseball or throwing grass bombs at each other. The list could go on and on. Two captains would be chosen who would then pick the teams. Unfortunately, I always hated that unless I was the captain because I dreaded being chosen last. As a Christian though – it is just the opposite because Jesus chose me first. Let those words sink in – Jesus chose me first! Before the foundations of the earth – JESUS CHOSE ME! He knew ahead of time that I would choose Him so He chose me first. Here’s the fact: You and I are special to God. We are His kids and we are loved by Him. I am chosen by God and I am appointed by Him and called into ministry by Him. I have purpose today. I have a leader who is leading me and a mission to accomplish. I’m not His step child or someone He has to put up with. I am His today! I am approved by Him and I a son in whom He is well pleased. His hand is upon me and He is watching over me to help and protect me. I can come to Him with anything that is on my heart and in my thoughts because He wants to bless His kids – me! As my father – He wants to give me good things today and all I need to do is ask – using the name of Jesus. I feel blessed. I feel special today. I am a child of the King!

How To Live A Blessed Life

John 13:14-17 (NLT) And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.

Last week I had the privilege to be amongst some 50 or 60 volunteers from the church who were serving those less fortunate than others. Our church provided groceries for approximately 200 families from the High Desert area – as we do every month. As people went through the line – I tried to reach out and hug and bless every person that walked by. I tried to give them a word of encouragement or to offer them a prayer for their situations. As I was doing that – one lady came up to me with tears in her eyes and said that she wanted to give me something. I opened it up and saw that it was a card of thanks expressing what a blessing the church has been to her and her husband every month. She was filled with tears and so was I. What a blessing. What a joy. Two times over the last week – different people gave me an envelope filled with money to be given anonymously to different families in the church. Overwhelming. As I passed the money on to the people in need – tears of great joy we’re seen on their faces. Priceless. Jesus, teaching his disciples about serving took a towel and began to wash their feet as they entered the house. He tells them, as well as to us – if you do this, then you will blessed. Jesus teaches us in other passages that if we take care of the orphans, prisoners and the poor – that we will receive back many times more. I’m a blessed man – many times over. I can’t count the multitude of blessings that have come my way. God has healed me and restored me and has shown great favor on my life and on my family. I serve one of the most awesome churches in the world. I am excited about life and all that God has in store for me. But, as I ponder these things – I can’t forget the mandate that God has given to all of us – to love and to serve those less fortunate than us and always be a servant and blessing to others. I must be like Jesus with one knee to the ground and a towel in my hand bending over to wash the feet of others around me. If I do those things – I will continue to walk in His blessing in my life.

It's Going To Be A Good Day!

John 10:27 (NLT) My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.

I've had the privilege of going to Israel twice in my lifetime. Both times proved to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. As I read the Bible now – the pages just come to life as I envision the places where each story was lived out 2000 years ago. As I read this mornings scripture reading – I was taken back to the first time I went to Bethlehem. I was fortunate enough to watch 3 or 4 shepherds bringing their flocks to a water hole that was designated for their sheep. There was a covering over the well and each of the shepherds helped to pull the covering off and then began to drop a bucket into the well to bring up and pour in troughs alongside the well. The sheep we're all mixed together by this time with multitude of “baa's” coming from all of them. As their thirst was satisfied I began to wonder how the shepherds would be able to separate his sheep when they would leave the watering hole. What I thought was going to be a difficult process turned into a very simple and easy process. The shepherd simply walked away and each shepherd had a specific whistle or call and the sheep immediately began to follow their perspective owners. They recognized his voice when he called. It made me wonder about my own life and how I respond to my shepherds call upon my life. Do I hear His voice when He calls? More importantly, do I follow His leading when He asks me to do something? I woke up around 2:45 AM this morning. I was a little restless. After tossing and turning for a little bit – I finally stopped and asked my Heavenly Father if He was trying to speak to me. He was. I spent the next hour or so just talking to Him about my life, my family and about many of you who are reading this today. Eventually, I slipped into a deep sleep for about ½ hour or so. Very refreshing. Today, my life is filled with many appointments and places to be. I am also speaking to a group of professionals who have asked me to come and direct them in a prayer for their lives and business. I don't plan to do any of those things without the help of my shepherd today. He is guiding me as I write this today and He will be guiding me throughout this day. My life is totally in His hands. I am very dependent on Him to get me to the water on time and for Him to fill the thirsting of my soul. I look forward today to how my shepherd is going to lead me and how He is going to minister to and through me. It's going to be a good day!

John 8:12 (NLT) Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

Something to think about: The speed of light is generally rounded down to 186,000 miles per second. That is equal to 186, 287.49 miles per second. It takes 8 minutes 17 seconds for light to travel from the Sun’s surface to the Earth. Every second around 100 lightning bolts strike the Earth. Every year lightning kills 1000 people. Red, green and blue are the primary colors of light. Mixing them in various ways will make all other colors, including white. Light is a form of energy which our sense of sight can detect. It is made of electro-magnetic radiation and travels in a straight path. I could go on and on but here’s the point – Jesus states that He is the true “light of the world.” John 1:4-5 states that His light shines in such a way that darkness can never put it out. To be honest, at times when I look around – darkness seems to be winning. If I take at face value what I see – it seems that darkness is spreading and becoming more entrenched. People are becoming more evil and more and more people are living in the darkness of this world. But then, when I remind myself of the words of Jesus and the lives that I’ve seen changed – I KNOW that darkness is in a losing battle. I get to see change in people’s lives from darkness to light all the time. I get to see lives, formerly in the pit of darkness, now move into the light of God’s Word. I like what Romans 5:20 says… “But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful grace became more abundant.” Satan would have you believe that He is winning but He is not. There are limits to what he can do and limits to how long he will prevail. Jesus won – period. Darkness will not prevail. Keep your eyes on Christ and stay close to Him on a daily basis. His light will lead you through every dark place that seems to be coming your way. He is our light and He is the one that leads us to light. Trust Him today.

While You Are Waiting

2 Peter 3:13-14 (NLT) But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness. And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight.

I did a funeral this last week of a 94 year old woman who was a Christian. To be honest – I was kind of envious of her. I can just imagine what it was like for her to slip from this world to that glorious place in heaven. But the reality is this – I still live here on earth and I still have to go to work and make a life for myself in this day by day life. However, I get to choose how I live my life and how I serve my God. Some people choose to live in isolation – away from being connected with people. Others like myself, choose to live life to the fullest and to engage and help people along the way. That is not always a clean process. It is sometimes messy and awkward. It has its ups and it has it downs. There are people I get along with really well and there are people… well you know. Peter helps us with this dilemma by encouraging us to do some things while we’re waiting for our appointment in heaven. He tells us to make EVERY effort to be found living peaceful lives and to be pure and blameless in God’s sight. For Peter to even mention this to us indicates that we could choose to live another way. I have tried to live my life and to be at peace with all men. I have tried to live a pure and blameless life. I know I have made many mistakes and failed miserably along the way. Yet, I have chosen to keep moving forward – to keep hoping for better things – to keep believing that I can change and that others can also. I think the key here is that I will make every effort. I will do the very best that I can. God, in His providence will always see me through and will always bring His best in my life if I am faithful to do what He has asked me to do. I haven’t arrived and I have a long way to go but I am looking forward to all that God has in store for my life and I know it is good because I serve a good God today.

God Will Never Fail You!

1 Peter 4:19 (NLT) So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you.

One of the harder parts of pastoring is to have to deal with the suffering situations that people go through. Sometimes, it seems, that there is no rhyme or reason and that some people just step from one boiling pot to the other. I’ve always prayed for compassion and understanding in dealing with people and their needs. And… I think, for the most part, that God has been very gracious in helping me to help others. But it wasn’t until I faced my own place of desperate need that I began to really relate to those who are in difficult places in their lives. I can look at those who have lost a loved one and say, “I’ve been there. I understand.” I can stand by those who are in recovery situations and are dealing with addictions and say, “I relate because God has brought recovery to my life.” I can stand at a hospital bed with someone who is deathly sick and tell them “I’ve been there also.” But more than that – I can look every person in the eye and say that “no matter what they’re going through” -it is not lost to God’s sight. He sees every circumstance and situation that I’ve faced or that you are facing today. He knows. He understands. And… He is very compassionate. He is our creator and He has the blueprint for our lives at His disposal. He knows everything about me and He knows everything about you. I’ve often heard other people say, “God will never fail you.” I believed that but it is not until you live that principle out in your life that you really begin to trust those words. I’m 56 years old now – soon to be 57. I’ve seen a lot in my life and in the lives of others that are around me. However… I can honestly say with full confidence today that GOD HAS NEVER LET ME DOWN – Never! So… as you go through that trial and that hardship today – just know there’s light at the end of this tunnel and you will get through this and God will be glorified. Trust Him fully today.

How Can I Be Satisfied And Happy Today?

Hebrews 13:5 (NLT) Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.”

I made the mistake the other day of going into Toys R Us. It wasn’t my plan or desire to do so but because my wife was under the weather I volunteered to go into the battle zone. There’s only one word I have to describe that environment – craziness! Even before I got in the door I met a woman coming out with a look of dismay saying, “I just didn’t get there in time.” Now mind you, I hadn’t even got into the store. With much trepidation – I pressed forward only to be met with lines everywhere. People we’re rushing and grabbing the toy that they had picked out for their child or grandchild or any other kids that might have been on their list. Fortunately, I found out that one of my daughter’s was there to hunt down some toys for one of her boys. With cell phone in hand I called her and told her about my mission. She immediately zeroed in on the desired toy and took it out of commission so that no other desperate adult would get their hands on it. Adults we’re everywhere. Kids we’re everywhere. Everyone wanted the latest, greatest toy that was out there. I can’t tell you how many times I heard, “Mom, can I have this?” Or… “Dad I want/need this toy.” Showing their frustrations, moms and dads would voice their protest even though they knew that they would soon be asked about another toy just around the next counter.

The writer of Hebrews helps us out here by simply saying, “Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have.” The question becomes then – How can we learn to be satisfied with what we have? It is so imperative that learn how to live with less rather than desiring more. We must learn the joys of giving from our abundance rather than stockpiling and accumulating more. We must relish what we have rather than resent what you're missing. We only become fully satisfied when we realize God's sufficiency for our needs. Christians who become materialistic are saying by their actions that God can't take care of them—or at least that he won't take care of them the way they want. Insecurity can lead to the love of money, whether we are rich or poor. The only antidote is to trust God to meet all our needs – all of them. Yes… this world is little crazy and the Christmas Season catches up with all of us every year – but, it doesn’t have to be. You can stop the craziness going on in your life. Don’t forget God’s promise to you today – I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.”

Don't Give Up!

Hebrews 10:35-36 (NLT) So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.

The believers that this passage was written to we’re facing some enormous trials and persecutions in their lives. Slowly their confidence was being eroded away to where many of them probably felt like quitting. Paul, sensing this encourages them to not give up and to hang in there. He tells them that now is not the time to lose their confidence – victory is just around the corner! They just need a little patience and endurance and then they will receive all that God has promised them! I think most of us relate to this. There are times when you just feel like giving up and throwing in the towel. You are being hammered by life’s circumstances. You have stumbled and fallen and have failed over and over again. You are tired. You wonder if the effort is worth it. Paul speaks into your ear like I’m speaking to you right now – Don’t quit – you are almost to the goal line. As I write this, I am reminded of going to track and field events in High School. The runners would race around the track trying to win their heat. It wouldn’t be unusual for a coach to be standing or running along the track yelling and encouraging his team to “dig in” and to “not give up.” It was the motivation that pushed the runners forward to give all that they could give. God Almighty is whispering in your ear today. “Don’t throw away your confidence. Hang in there. You are almost there. The prize is so worth the struggle and the pain.”

What Defines My Life

1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NLT) Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.

Much of my time in counseling with others is spent in dealing with how people are coping and navigating through these economic times we are now experiencing. People are losing their jobs, their homes and other things that they once we’re able to afford. It’s so sad to see people you love having to deal with such major decisions in their life – losing what took a lifetime to obtain. It’s interesting, as we sit and talk - I watch the roller coaster of emotions come and go –shock/ anger/ guilt/ depression/ acceptance and eventually hope. Then… It’s like a light that suddenly comes on in their mind that there is something they can’t lose – their soul and their hope. Possessions are… well, exactly that – possessions. They are not what define a person or his life. My life is defined by my belief in God and His Son Jesus Christ. I can lose a lot of things in this life but still have my hope in God and His promises. Paul exhorts us in this passage to discover what true wealth is – to walk in godliness and live with contentment. I read one time where a lady had died and wanted to be buried in her red Mercedes car. She must have thought she could take it with her into the afterlife. Paul tells us that we brought nothing into the world and we can take nothing with us – that we just need to learn to content here on earth. My prayer for you today is that you would discover true contentment and trust God to take care of you in whatever situation you are in today.

The Wealthiest Place In The High Desert

1 Timothy 4:14-15 (MSG) And that special gift of ministry you were given when the leaders of the church laid hands on you and prayed—keep that dusted off and in use. Cultivate these things. Immerse yourself in them. The people will all see you mature right before their eyes!

Every day I drive to work I drive by the wealthiest place in the High Desert. You didn’t know that we have such an area? Well we do. In fact – there are about 4 or 5 places that have some hidden treasures worth more than money could pay. Still don’t know? The answer is really quite simple – it is our local cemeteries. They hold the unfilled dreams and visions of hundreds of thousands of people who never fulfilled them on earth and eventually took them to their grave. These we’re dreams of a better life, a successful career, better health, etc. Some of them people had ideas in them that they never acted upon. Had they moved forward on them – they would have been millionaires in their lifetimes. Paul encourages us to dust off our gift and keep in use. Don’t let your tools go dull. Keep using the gift that God has given you. Cultivate it. Immerse yourself in it. Become an expert at what you do. Let people see how you’ve matured in that gift and how God is using you in that regard. Don’t let excuses rule this part of your life – “I’m too old.” “I’m too busy.” “I’m too tired.” There will always be excuses if you let them rule your thoughts. It’s interesting in life: There are some things that I do and it wears me out. Those things obviously are not my part of my God gifting. However, when I’m doing what I’m called to do – I have energy and strength. I have motivation. It’s at times like that when I feel alive and close to God. Let me encourage you today to pray about what it is that you are called to do in life. When you discover that gift – go for it. Learn about it. Prepare yourself to be an expert in it. Find a place to use it. I like what John Piper says – “God is most glorified when we are most satisfied in Him.” That should be the goal of every person today. When you do God’s will for your life you be glorifying God in your midst and you as well as people around you will be blest as well.

Qualified By God

Colossians 1:9-12 (NIV) For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

I am always blessed by someone who lets me know that they’ve been praying for me. I never get tired of hearing those words from friends and family. What’s even more of a blessing is when someone teljavascript:void(0)ls me that they are praying for something specific that I have been praying for privately to the Lord. It reminds me that God has heard my prayers again. Paul, in Colossians says that he never stops praying for them – even though he had never been to their church. Their relationship to Christ is all that was needed to tie them eternally together. He specifically prays: 1- that God would fill them with the knowledge of his will with spiritual wisdom and understanding. 2- That they may life a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way. 3- That they would bear fruit in every good work. 4- That they would grow in the knowledge of God. 5- That they would be strengthened with power to His glorious might. 6- That they would have great endurance and patience. 7- That they would give joyfully give thanks to the Father. These are all good prayers but the next phrase really caught my attention “giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.” Other translations use the word “enabled.” When I think about the word qualify I think about a track meet where there is qualification races. The top racers from each heat would go on to the next race until a winner was found. I’m not a runner. God never gave me the long legs needed to run races. As I pictured this in my mind – I was racing with the very best and barely making it around the track when Jesus came along and picked me up and carried me to the finish line and qualified me for the next race. Humorous perhaps, but real on a lot of different levels. There’s no way that I would ever to be run that type of race or the Christian race without the help of Christ. He is what I need. Enough said. The trials and difficulties I have gone through have all been part of the qualifying process to help me run the race well. I am so blessed to be His child today and I am so blessed for people’s prayers for me on a daily basis. I’m growing deeper and running stronger then ever because of Christ who lives in me who has qualified and enabled me today.

Selective Forgetfulness

Philippians 3:12-14 (NLT) I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Sadly, it seems that one of the lessons I have to keep revisiting in my Christian walk is the lesson of forgetfulness. I know and have memorized this scripture out of Philippians that I need to move forward and forget the past but there seems to be something built into my system that keeps bringing up the past wounds and hurts. I try to turn that switch off but the voice keeps messing with my head reminding me that I have a long way to go. Past events, conversations and memories are then kept at the forefront of my thoughts making it nearly impossible to move forward with my walk of faith. Now, don’t get me wrong, there are things that I absolutely can forget about. When put into a difficult or stressful situation – I tend to forget about God’s goodness and faithfulness in the past. I am like the people of Israel who had been given and had seen so many miracles, but when put into a hard place they wondered if God was even with them. We are all fine - as long as we don’t have any problems facing us or stressful decisions to make. But when that bill is due and that confrontation is eminent we tend to forget that God has always been there and that He promised that He would never leave nor forsake us. Actually, if the truth be known, God, knowing that our faith sometimes goes flat and that we tend to trust in ourselves more than we do in Him – He then gives us trials and difficulties to bring us back to that place of fully trusting Him. The process of forgetting the past and moving forward is a difficult and long journey that seems to sometimes go backwards rather than forward. I am constantly challenged as to whether I’m going to fully trust God or I’m going to lapse back into my old way of thinking. Thankfully, God so loves me that He also forgets some things in my life – like my past sins and my past failures. In fact, he tells me that He will put those sins in the “Sea Of Forgetfulness” and will remember them no more. I guess God has selective forgetfulness also. He chooses to not remember who I was but chooses to focus on who I am and most importantly who I am becoming. Knowing this, I now press forward for the mark that is before me. I trust God that He is going to lead and guide me to the goal that is set before me and the prize that awaits me. What a wonderful journey this has been. I am so looking forward to what God has in store for me today.

The Process Of Transformation

Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.

As a young boy, I lived in an area where butterflies we're in great abundance. Every spring we would take our makeshift butterfly nets outside and catch butterflies of all different colors and species. I was always fascinated by the beauty and the variety of butterflies that we're out there. It may be hard to believe that a beautiful creature like a butterfly was once an ugly, worm like creature like a caterpillar, but this is exactly how the colorful, graceful butterfly’s life cycle works. There are four stages in a butterfly’s life. The process of going from one stage to another is called metamorphosis. The first stage begins when the female lays her eggs, usually on a plant which will provide food. Soon, a caterpillar, called a larva, begins to form inside each egg. After a few days, or a few months-depending on the variety of butterfly, the caterpillar is large enough to break out of the shell and continue growing outside. It begins by eating its shell, then goes on to eat the leaves of the plant on which its egg was laid. The full-grown caterpillar gives off a thin stream of liquid from glands below its mouth. This liquid hardens into a silky thread which the caterpillar attaches to a twig or leaf. With this thread it spins a shell-like covering around its body. Inside the shell, the caterpillar changes into a pupa, or the body of a butterfly. This stage can take from ten days to several months. When the pupa has grown into an adult butterfly, it gives off a fluid which softens the shell. Then it expands its body and cracks the shell. Within half an hour, the butterfly has pumped air into its body, its blood begins to circulate, and it is ready to fly away. It's interesting, that this passage of Romans also talks about the “Metamorphis” that each of us will go through in our Christian walk. We are always changing, growing and becoming what God wants us to become. Our natural tendency is to stay in the same place and be content with that but God wants us to move forward in our Christian growth. The problem is this: it won't happen unless we are prodded a little bit. God allows hardships, trials and difficulties to help us through the process of transformation. I remember as a kid watching a caterpillar struggle to get out of its cocoon . I wanted to help the process move faster and opened up the cocoon which only caused the butterfly to eventually die. It needed the struggle to build up its muscles and wings. We can't short circuit God's plan for our lives. We must trust that God knows better what is best for us and stay the course. The struggle teaches us endurance and character. It makes us strong for those stormy parts of life. It gives us a hope that we can make it because we've made it before. God is not a fool and He knows exactly what is best for you and I. Trust Him today to see you completely through and make you to be the man and/or woman that God wants you to be!

A Reason For Hope Today

Romans 4:18-23 (NLT) Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping…And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, … Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. And because of Abraham’s faith, God counted him as righteous…

It’s kind of interesting how words and their meanings change over time. What used to mean one thing over 100 years ago has an entirely different meaning now. Hope is one of the words. It used to mean “an absolute confidence in something or someone.” Now, it means things like “I hope so. I wish for, etc.” When the scripture says that Abraham kept “hoping,” it refers to a confidence that would not be persuaded by any obstacle or situation that was out there. As an example, I read in yesterday’s paper that the price of gasoline is going up 62 cents per gallon after the first of the year. Some would say, “I hope God helps me and takes care of me,” – indicating that they weren’t sure if He would or not. But as Christians we should be saying it this way, “My hope (confident assurance) is in God and I trust Him to take care of me no matter what the price of gasoline is.” The newspapers and news stories on the TV look very bleak right now as we read about the war games going on off the coast of Korea and person who was just arrested for trying to set off a bomb in a Christmas lighting ceremony in Oregon. If I live by those stories alone – I would never come out of the house and enjoy life. My confidence is in God’s hands today. I trust Him now more than I ever have. I have watched His faithfulness over and over in my life. He has taken care of me and my family and He will continue to do so. I have a reason for hope today. It’s not my bank account nor is it my health or life insurance plan or even my retirement savings. My hope today is in Jesus Christ who is my Lord and Savior. I am fully convinced that God is ABLE to do what He promises. He has never let me down and I KNOW that He will continue to see me through.

How To Be Used By God

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 (NLT) Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful.

I used to play baseball in High School and College and was a part of some great competitive and championship teams. Many of the players I played with in High School went on to play professionally in the Major Leagues. Now, there are many aspects of the game both defensively and offensively that are important but what I enjoyed to most was batting. I love to hit the ball. It was a challenge to read the pitcher and connect with the ball to enable more runs to come in for the team. Often, My coach used to tell us that we needed to know where the “sweet spot” was on the bat. It is the place where the most impact would be given at the time of impact with the ball. It is the same for golfers, tennis players or any sport. For some sports, its not the sweet spot but the point of balance like in surfing or skateboarding or skiing. When that is found in any sport – they are able to maximize their ability to find the spot that will give them the edge on everyone else. Whenever an athlete hits that spot – it is the ultimate high. It's what brings them back again and again. Taking that analogy, I would like to now relate that to our Christian walk. God tells us that there are three parts to our life spirit, soul and body. When these three become as one – it then makes ways for God to use us at the maximum level. Now... I can function with one or two of these areas running but I can't function at my up most ability. But wow... when all three of these area come together – watch out! That's when God can really use us. We live in very a very dark and evil world. Satan is throwing out anything and everything to cause you to come into defeat in your life. He wants you to fail. That is why we need to face every day with our “game face.” We must be in our “sweet spot” in our spirit, soul and body. Don't misunderstand me by thinking this is all about you and what you do. That is only part of it. It is ultimately what God does that makes any difference but when we are connected with those three elements in our life and with God's power – watch out – God is going to use you might ways.

Words That Every Son Or Daughter Wants To Hear

Matthew 17:5 (NLT) But even as he spoke, a bright cloud came over them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.”

I love Israel and its rich history and culture. The Hebrew people, language, and food are very dear to my heart. But what is very special is their understanding and importance of the blessing from their earthly Father. Every day the children come to their “Abba” (daddy) and ask him to bless them. They won't dare leave the house until that blessing is given. Not only is it done on a daily basis but the patriarchal blessing is given over special events and endeavors on a regular basis. Sadly, It is something that is missing in our American culture. The father's influence into each of his childrens lives is glaringly absent. As a result, unknowingly, people begin to search throughout their lifetime for someone to say, “This is MY son/ daughter in whom I am well pleased and who brings me great joy.” Every one wants to know that they are loved and that they bring meaning to life. People who don't receive this blessing try to fulfill their lives with many things trying to fill the void inside them. I happen to be blessed with a godly heritage in my parents and grandparents. As a child I was always told how much I was loved and how much God loves me. As an adult, I have a father who often tells me how blessed he is to be my father and how proud he is of me. I have tried to impart that blessing to my kids and grand kids. But sadly, most of the people have never experienced that blessing. They don't know what it is liked to be so loved and so accepted. Often, in talking to me about one's father – people will break down in tears because they miss what could have been and how much they have missed out in life. I am glad that God spoke out about his son and verbalized it so others could hear it. The neat thing about this passage is this – it is a blessing over every one of us today – His kids. We are blessed of God whether we have received an earthly blessing or not. We are His. He is ours. Walk in that blessing today. You are His Son/ Daughter today.

What Does The Cross Mean To You?

Matthew 16:24-26 (NLT) Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?

I have a friend, who is the late 60's was on a quest to find meaning for his life. It was during the “hippie” era when “Free love,” “sexual revolution” and “flower power” we're the messages that we're being preached. Drugs we're an epidemic and there we're a lot of messed up young people in the United States and in the world. He ended us being a professor at a university in Indiana which immersed him totally into that lifestyle of sin and promiscuity. In his quest to get the ultimate “karma” and to go “back to nature” he quit his job and flew to coast lands of Africa. One night as he was meditating by the ocean naked and watching the sun go down something significant happened in his life. No one was on the the secluded beach and he was miles away from any human contact. As he sat there, chanting his ritual “ohms” he looked down the beach and notice a man was walking up the beach toward him. As the man came closer and closer he noticed that he was carrying a cross over his shoulder that was big enough that he had to drag it behind him. This man came closer and closer toward my friend until he was standing directly in front of him. Without a word – he planted the cross in the sand, walked away to never be seen again. This became his “born-again” experience. He came back to the United States and has served as an evangelist on American Universities and Campuses to this day. The cross has become a religious icon in our day. People wear it around their neck or hang it on their wall but few people understand the significance and importance that it bears upon our lives. The message my friend received that day was the message of what the cross means and the sacrifice that Jesus paid for our sins. Your testimony might not be as dramatic as his but it is just as real. Whenever you realize the price that Christ has paid for your sins by dying on the cross. Whenever you can accept the true meaning of the cross – your whole life will change. I live every day with the cross on my mind and heart. I give thanks to my Jesus for what He has done and is doing for my life. I have accepted Him into my heart and He is my Lord and Savior today. You might end up with many possessions in life but if you don't have Christ in your heart – they all mean nothing. If I gain status and position and don't have Christ – I am nothing. Trust me today... Christ is the ONLY answer and He is the ONLY one who can help you today. I am proud today to say, “Jesus is Lord” of my life. Can you say that about your life? My prayers are that each and every one reading this today would make a stand for Christ and not be ashamed of what He has done and is doing in your life today.

Who Is On Your Team Today?

Psalms 124:1-5 (NLT) What if the Lord had not been on our side? Let all Israel repeat: What if the Lord had not been on our side when people attacked us? They would have swallowed us alive in their burning anger. The waters would have engulfed us; a torrent would have overwhelmed us. Yes, the raging waters of their fury would have overwhelmed our very lives.

When kids divide up and pick teams there are always those who get picked first and those who get picked last. Being on the shorter side of life – I know what its like to get picked last – a lot. It's an icky feeling, unless, you get picked with the team that has BIG MIKE on it because you knew you we're going to win. Knowing that I was going to get picked last - I would maneuver myself to be friends with the bigger guys so that I would be chosen by them. At least then, there would be some redeeming value to having been chosen last – we would probably win and have bragging right until the next game. The process is a little different spiritually – the two big guys – Jesus and Satan are standing on the other side and we get to choose which one we want on our team. Who you choose will make all the difference in the world. Satan might look appealing and attractive to you but he is definitely not the power player. Jesus is. He is more powerful, stronger and wiser. He has proven that over and over. In fact, He has left the playbook with us (the Bible) that tells us that we win in the end. The sooner you make that right choice the sooner you can pick up some “wins” on your personal scoreboard. The choice is yours to win or lose. Choose Jesus today and you will be a definite winner.

What Type Of Battle Are You Fighting?

2 Corinthians 10:3-6 (NLT) We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. And after you have become fully obedient, we will punish everyone who remains disobedient.

In my very first church of which I pastored I had a man who attended who was a professional wrestlers. He was massive big. His neck and his chin we're the same size. His hands we're registered at the police department as lethal weapons. Yet, he was the kindest, most gentlest man I had ever met. He was stronger then most people and had even competed in various strong man competitions. Yet, he knew his limitations and he knew when to reign it in and not to intimidate people. I always admired that in him. I've watched over my years upon the earth all sorts of battles that people fight. Whether it be a street battle or a military battle – there are all sorts of ways to fight. I even have to admit – I like to watch violence on TV or at the movies. My wife does enjoy that part of my life. It is one of the things we politely disagree on. If I want to watch a certain movie that is out that has a lot of violence – I have to grab my son-in-law to go with me and it becomes just a “guy thing.” Oh well. But there is another battle that is taking place that isn't talked a whole lot about by most people. It is the spiritual battles that all of us who are Christians face on a day by day. Whether it be a spiritual battle within yourself or with others – Satan is in a huge battle for your soul. The battles/ trials are real and Satan is not a novice when it comes to throwing things your way. If you try to go to war him with conventional weapons – you will lose. If you try to deal with him yourself – you will lose. You must use God's weapons and God's ways in order to win. God has made those weapons available to us and God is willing to put at your disposal everything you need to win the battle. Don't be naive or deceived. Don't bury your head in the sand. Take up your sword today. Put on the armor of God and know that God has victory in store for you today!

It Is Well With My Soul

Job 42:5 (NLT) I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes.

Most people talk about and believe in God – even when they say they don't. I was standing on a corner one time next to a person who claimed to be an atheist. Someone turned the corner a bit tight coming a little to close to us and out of their mouth came the words “Oh my God.” I turned to them and asked them when they started believing in God. You should have seen the look on their face. It's one thing to hear about God and even believe in God but its another thing to “experience” God. Unfortunately, for most of us – it takes a tragedy or a difficult experience to come into our lives before we come to really know God. I'm sitting at my computer typing this into my journal right now and the song “It Is Well With My Soul” is playing. It has reminded me of all that God has done for me and how God has brought me through so much. Yes... I've known God all my life. He has been with me He has meant a lot to me. But its different now. I have grown to appreciate just who He is and I have come to see His grace and mercy with my own eyes. I honestly can say, “It is well with my soul” today. The hard places and difficult situations we're allowed by God to help me to see God in a different way. To walk through life without bitterness and without regret is a wonderful experience. I haven't been give a crystal ball or do I know about today or tomorrow. But I do know this... God is in me. I'm experiencing Him deeper then I ever have before. My life is in His hands and I know that He has wonderful and great things in store for me, my family and the people I pastor.

The Man Whom God Sees

1 Corinthians 8:2-3 (NLT) Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.

I am constantly dealing with “know it all's”. These are people who seem to have all the answers about life and the best way to live it. They are people who will disdain good advice because they know a short cut or think that they are immune to problems. No matter what I tell them – it seems to go in one ear and out the other. It doesn't matter that I've done what they're doing 100 times with the same bad result – they still have to try it their way. Eventually... I will get that call of “Help!” After they have found out the hard way and have lost everything in life – they come humbly and ask for repentance and forgiveness. It's then that God can begin to work in their hearts. It's then that God can begin the work of restoring them. It is that person to who God sees and recognizes. Psalms 34:18 (NLT) The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. When we're at the end of ourselves is when God will reach down and help us. He won't intervene into your will. He won't make you come to Him. When you're ready... He will still be there. He loves you so much today!

Where Are The Fathers?

1 Corinthians 4:15-16 (NIV) Even though you have ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore I urge you to imitate me.

A few years ago I was speaking in Costa Rica to a group of pastors about the qualities and characteristics of being a strong leader. As I was speaking, the Lord revealed to me that there we're a number of men who didn't know how to lead because they had never been led by their own father in life. I talked to them about how God would be their Father and He would speak HIS BLESSING into their lives. Where there was void in their lives would now be filled with anointing, strength and confidence. When I was done speaking I took it one step further by inviting men to come to the front who had never received a blessing from their earthly Father. I told them that I wanted to give them a “dad” hug and that I wanted to put a spiritual blessing on their lives. I thought in my mind that there would be a few men that would make their way to the front and I was excited to be part of God's plan. Little did I know that I would spend the next hour or so ministering to a long line of men who we're searching for the blessing in their lives. It was very overwhelming. That event opened my eyes in a lot of ways about life and people. We live in a world where there are many many people who don't know what it is to go through life with the blessing of their fathers. Fathers have been AWOL and have been derelict in their duty to raise their children. Children, seeking the blessing, end up forging their way through life searching in all the wrong places to bring their lives meaning. WHERE ARE THE FATHERS? Where are the men who are supposed to lead and guide and point the way to Christ. WHERE ARE THE GODLY HUSBANDS who are lovingly caring and nurturing their wives. WHERE ARE THE MEN IN THE CHURCHES who are engaged and involved rather than just coming and sitting on a chair to appease the wife. Men and women alike are looking for someone that will mentor and lead them in the right direction. They are looking for those who will take a stand for what is right. Men, Fathers, Husbands – stand up with me. Make your life mean something today. Stand up! Lead! Point others to Christ! Leave an example for others to follow! Do this and God will bring rich blessings on your life and your family today.

Keep A Fork In Your Hand!

1 Corinthians 1:4-6 (NLT) I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. Through him, God has enriched your church in every way...”.

When Jesus was at the Last Supper with his disciples he took the bread and broke and said, “Do this in remembrance of me. He also took the cup and said it again, “Do this in remembrance of me.” Life flies by us sometimes at break neck speeds. It seems that we are so focused on what we are doing today or tomorrow that we forget what Christ did for us in the past. We forget the sacrifice that He paid for us by being on the cross and, we forget the multitude of blessings that He brought our way. Paul opens this book by saying that he thanked God for all the gracious gifts that had been to the Corinthians. He goes on to say that “through him (Christ) – their lives had been enriched in every way. I have been pondering this over the past few days – about what God has done for me. Too often, we focus on the bad things and don't see the good. Lately, I have been trying to focus on the good things that God has done to and through me. To stop and think about those things is overwhelming. I could write a book. I am so blessed. And... I know that there is more. I read a story a while back about a woman who died. At her request, she wanted to be buried with a fork in her hand. The pastor explained the reason behind this was because whenever she would go to church potlucks and eat that people would come around and pick up the dirty dishes but they would say, “Keep your fork because desert is coming.” I think that there are a lot of lessons for us here today. Life might have been hard and life might have dealt us with blows. But... if you think about it – there have also been a lot of blessings that have come your way. God has richly blessed us. But it doesn't stop there. Like the lady who died – we would do well to take her advice. you'd better keep a fork in your hand because the best is yet to come!

A Personal Struggle

Mark 11:22-25 (NLT) Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God. I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours. But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”

Every one of us has those areas that we sometimes struggle with. I happen to at times struggle with faith. Now, don't get me wrong. I have faith. I preach faith. I practice faith and I live in the realm of faith on a day by day basis. It was ingrained in me as a child and it continues to be a vital part of my life. But, to be honest, sometimes I struggle with trusting and believing that God is really listening or in control. I know this might come as a shock to some of you but its the truth. There are things that I've prayed over and over for and have never seen the results. Yet... on the other hand – there are things that I've hardly given any time in prayer for that are immediately answered. Go figure. What I do know though is this – I'm not God and I still live on this earth where I have to process my walk with God on a daily basis. He is teaching me to trust Him – even when I don't understand and even when things don't make sense to me. My faith is deeper now then it has ever been. Difficult times have shaped me and tempered me much. I see life now through a different prism and I walk hand in hand with my Lord on a day by day basis. I don't need to know all the answers and I don't need to know all the time where my journey of faith will take me. I trust in the Sovereignty of God and am excited about the future because it is in His hands and not mine. So... do I still struggle? Absolutely. But I do know this – He is holding onto my hands right now and I'm not letting go. I trust Him to see me through.

Safe In The Arms Of God

Mark 10:14-16 (NLT) ...He (Jesus) said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.

The other day I was on my way to church and decided to swing by Michelle's house and see baby Josiah. He was asleep but I couldn't resist holding him in my arms and putting kisses on his cheeks. He was safe. He was trusting. He was content. He was right where he was supposed to be – safe in my arms. In the same way – yours and my heart needs to be like a child when we come to God. We must come to Him with a trusting heart – knowing full well that He will protect and guide us and take care of our every need. He loves that you come to Him and He will never ever push you away. If we could just stay in that trusting position we would do well in life but,as we grow up, we become more self dependent and a little more absorbed with ourselves. We stop trusting God like we should. Instead of coming to Him – we push Him away and we try to make things happen without His help and His guidance. Finally, we come to the end of ourselves and we turn back to God. Praise God He is always there for me but I would rather learn in the first place to just trust Him. I want to be like Josiah – very contented to be in His dad and mom's (and my arms). It's the way God intended for us to be.

Get Your Eyes Off Your Circumstances!

Job 19:25-27 (NLT) “But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God! I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!

Sigh... life gets hard sometimes. Difficulty and hardship seem to follow all of us wherever we go. People are hurting and are extremely broken. Even our earth is groaning over abuse and misuse. Job was experiencing those things in his own life and relates this throughout this chapter. People had let him down and life was spiraling downward. He experienced losses in his family and his body was giving out on him. And, I'm sure at times, that he felt like giving up and wallowing in his misery. Yet... in the midst of this picture there is a glimmer of hope. He knew something and held on to something in his heart. Even though his circumstances we're bad – he knew his God. He knew the promises that had been made to him and he knew the end result – that he would see God. All of a sudden – the circumstances and the problems didn't matter. He knew the end of the story. He relaxed. He waited. He trusted. He didn't allow the severity of life to dictate what he already knew in his heart – that... his “redeemer lives” and would redeem and restore him. He focused on that instead of his difficulty and was overwhelmed with the possibility of what God was going to do. You and I can do the same thing today. Get your eyes off your circumstances and get your eyes on God. He will do what He promised He would do. You can take that to the bank today!

Forgiveness Is An Issue

Matthew 18:21-22 (NLT) 21 Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” 22 “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!

Someone came to me the other day and mentioned that they we're dealing with something in their lives. They went on to say that everywhere they turned that God was dealing with them about forgiveness. We looked at some scriptures and talked it through of how important it is to forgive and prayed together. However, I left that conversation a little empty because I knew that this was an issue that God was dealing with my life also. It wasn't a big issue but a gnawing and annoying issue. I have noticed recently that my thoughts we're going to a specific situation over and over. Obviously, I still had some residual of un-forgiveness that I needed to deal with. The fact of the matter is this – We all live on this planet together and stuff happens to all of us. People will end up hurting us in a small and big ways. We will end up being wounded and be let down by those surrounding us. Frederick the Great once said, “The more I study people – the more I like my dog.” Funny perhaps. Cute quote. But it doesn't work. God's way is this - “the more we study people – the more love and compassion we should have.” People are hurting and hurting people hurt people. Situations will happen. We will get under one-anothers skin. Life will hurt at times. But... God heals all the time. He knows that you and I can't forgive in our own strength and power. We can, however, look to Him for help in this area. Peter was saying, “God, I only have the strength to forgive seven times.” God's response to him and to us is the same - “I can help you forgive as many times as it takes. I will help you. Trust in me today.”

What A Good God We Serve

Psalms 139:17-18 (NLT) 17 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! 18 I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!

I've been pondering over the last few days about how God views and sees me. We often see our lives from our filtered viewpoint. We see it through the lens of our failures and let downs – our past and our mistakes. The list could go on and on. But God sees us so differently. He views us as special and precious. His thoughts about me are so numerous and good about us – even more then the grains of sand in the ocean. This last week was a reminder to me in this regard as my daughter was able to give birth to a healthy son. There we're, at times, when I didn't see or understand why she and her husband would go through the trial of losing their firstborn and if God really was watching over them or us. It was hard to see why I or any of my family would have to suffer so. I never turned my back on God but I did have my questions of the way He was leading all of us through this seemingly dark and long tunnel. I didn't see how God was doing a new work in me and preparing me to be stronger in the ways of the spirit. God wanted to do some things in me that would only come by going through the valley of despair. At times it was more difficult then I could understand – but God came through. His goodness came into our lives – over and over. His faithfulness was proved over and over again. I feel so blessed. I am in awe. I am overwhelmed. Wow! What a good God we serve. He never, never leaves us or forsakes us.

Overcoming Fear In Your Life

Job 3:25 (NLT) 25 What I always feared has happened to me. What I dreaded has come true.

Overcoming fear is one of the greatest obstacles in a Christian’s life. It seems that I am constantly dealing with this not only in my own life but in the lives of others. It is a tool that Satan has used to halt your Christian growth and to make you ineffective in your walk with Christ. Job stated what we often feel. We take a negative thought and turn on the switch in our brain that keeps thinking about that thought over and over again. It is what we think about at night and it is what floods your mind during the day. Philippians 4:8 teaches us how to counteract this by saying: “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” We are to” fix” (set) our thoughts on that which is true and right and holy, etc. We are to “think” upon excellent things. You don’t have to walk in fear today. You don’t have to live with the dread of tomorrow. Put your eyes on Christ today and let Him show His plans for your life and not the devil’s. 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT) 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

Accepting The Good With The Bad

Job 2:10 (NLT) 10 But Job replied… Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?” So in all this, Job said nothing wrong.

Most of us try to put God in a box. We feel it is our right to determine the course of our lives. When good things come our way – we are happy but when bad things happen we are quick to blame God. I don’t understand why some people deal with cancer and others live healthy lives. I don’t know why some people deal with grief or depression or financial ruin. The problems that people face are overwhelming at times – even the things I have had to face in my own life. I used to blame God by complaining that “it’s not fair” but I try not to do that now. I know that God has a bigger plan then what I can see. He knows what it is best for my life. He sees and knows things that I don’t know. He is Sovereign. God used Job to be a lesson to us all. He used a man who was wise beyond his years. Satan tried to throw all sorts of things his way. He trusted God. He accepted the good with the bad because He knew God was in control. My prayer is that each of us will learn to trust God – no matter what our situation is. That, like Job, we will praise God during the good and the bad. God wants to use you in life but in order for you to be trustworthy He will allow trials to come your way. Learn to accept what God has allowed to be in your life. Keep trusting Him and He will lead you to the place He wants you to be.

Have You Been With Jesus?

Acts 4:13-14 (NLT) 13 The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus. 14 But since they could see the man who had been healed standing right there among them, there was nothing the council could say.

As a pastor I try to take God’s Word, break it down, and bring it to people in such a way that they can live it out in their daily lives during the week. I am always asking the question – “How can we apply this to our lives and how can we make it work in our homes and places of work.” This passage helps us in understanding those questions a little bit. Here we have “ordinary men” going about their day by day life just trying to serve Jesus. They are living out their Christian experience and getting bolder along the way. The difference was this: Yes, they we’re just ordinary men but they we’re men who had been with Jesus. People saw it in them and saw the authority working through them. When people see each of us – they should say – “There is a difference about you. I can tell that you’ve been with Jesus.” I don’t think that there is any greater compliment that a person can give me then that. I want to live a life in such a way that people will look at me and say, “You’ve been with Jesus.” I want His light to shine on and through me that it is noticeable in everything I do and say. I pray this upon each of our lives today.

Go Deep With God

Psalms 1:1-3 (NLT) 1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.

When I was younger – my dad used to take me hiking and fishing a lot. We would hike into the back country of Yosemite just to find that perfect fishing hole that we could brag about to all our friends. One of the things that I enjoyed was seeing the creeks coming off the glaciers and then forming into a rushing stream making its way to valleys below. These streams, especially in the springtime, became huge channels of destruction to anything that would get in their way. Their force would move boulders and debris as if it was nothing. What was interesting was to observe the trees along the banks of the river that we’re still standing. The ground around them might have eroded from the waters damage but the trees remained firm because their roots went deep into the ground. It is not different from you and I in our walk and relationship with God. We must, through meditating upon God and His Word, allow our roots to go deep into the ways of the Lord. Storms will come and life will be unfair but we will survive because God our foundation is in God today.

God Is With You During Your Darkest Night

Nehemiah 9:19 (NLT) 19 “But in your great mercy you did not abandon them to die in the wilderness. The pillar of cloud still led them forward by day, and the pillar of fire showed them the way through the night.

Think about your deepest trial or your darkest night. Think about that most difficult experience that left you isolated and devastated. Now think about God and His presence was with you during that trial. He was always there. He never left you and He never stopped loving you. He extended His hand to you and helped you through every part of that journey. He protected you and brought you to the place where you are today. As I look back over my life and reflect upon God – I am so grateful that He walked every inch with me – even when I didn’t understand what was taking place. In His great mercy He didn’t abandon or forsake me. He was with me then and He is with me now. I stand amazed at God and what He continues to do for me. Ponder this phrase - “He showed them through the night.” Whatever your trial is today – look to God. It might seem like a small light at the end of a dark tunnel – but don’t take your eyes off it. If you are in a “night season” – take heart because your God is with you and loves you, as His child, so much. God will use this difficulty in your life to help you mature in Him and to be a blessing of strength and hope to others. Your (my) God loves us so much!

Use What God Has Given You

Luke 19:26 NLT - ...to those who use well what they are given, even more will be given. But from those who are unfaithful, even what little they have will be taken away.

Wayne Cadeiro, a friend of mine who pastors in Hawaii, talks about the richest place on the earth. He shares that there is a place that is laden with wealth beyond measure and nobody can access its riches. People have tried and have failed over and over. That place is every grave yard around the world. In those graves lies the talent and gifting of billions of people who we're blessed to have talent and giftings that we're given by our creator but have never used them on earth. They have now been taken to their grave. It is sad but true that many of us have been blessed with God-inspired talents but never use what God has endowed to us. You might say that your gift is small and insignificant but who are you to argue with our maker of what is important or not. Paul tells Timothy to “stir up” the gift. We can't hide it or hoard it – it must be used. In fact, according to this parable – either we use it or lose it. I am most fulfilled in life when I am doing what God wants and designed me to do. I like what John Piper says, “God is most glorified with I am most satisfied in Him.” I am most satisfied when I am doing and using the gifts that God gave me and seeing the fruit thereof. Take what you have, even if it is a little, and begin to use it. The world we live will be so blessed if can do that.

Trusting God In The Desert Place

Psalms 126:3-6 NLT - Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy! Restore our fortunes, LORD, as streams renew the desert. Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.

We've all seen what a little water will do to a parched piece of land or how it will refresh and vitalize a thirsty soul. What seemed to be dying or dead suddenly comes to life and flourishes before our eyes. Spiritually speaking , most of us would relate to that and we would understand what it means to be in those dry places in our lives. We we're doing so well and then the drought came. Life became hard. Decisions became more difficult and relationships became very strained. We wondered and questioned God's care over us. We had doubts about our faith – 'is it worth the time and energy to keep moving forward.' At our wits end we cry out to God. And... in His timetable, not mine – He shows up. Slowly, steadily He begins to pour the rain of His spirit back our being. Over lives begins to feel re-vitalized and our soul begins to feel replenished. Hope begins to swell within us and we begin to see the bigger picture – that our trials and tears had a purpose – God's plan begins to be revealed. We wept during the difficulty but now that we've seen the harvest and the fruit we now sing – “God is good. God is good. Thank you Lord for all the amazing things You have done for me.”

The Blessings Of God Are Waiting For You Today!

Haggai 2:7, 9 NLT - I will fill this place with glory, says the LORD Almighty. ... The future glory of this Temple will be greater than its past glory, says the LORD Almighty. And in this place I will bring peace. I, the LORD Almighty, have spoken!"

There are two types of people in life – those who are looking for the other shoe to fall in life and those who are looking for the blessings of God to come in a new and fresh way. I'm the latter. I'm the one who has experienced so many blessings in my life and can't wait to see what my heavenly father has in store for me in the future. I believe this for my family, for the church I serve and for the High Desert in which I live in. I know things are difficult right now and the economy is not doing very well. These things are important and we know God takes care of our needs but there are so many other areas that God blesses us with. Every day I thank the Lord for peace of mind, my health, protection to and from work. I also give thanks for my family who are all walking with God and for the wonderful church that God has allowed me the privilege of loving and pastoring. I thank Him for the home I live in and I thank Him for the many people that come into my life on a day by day basis that I get to show the love of God to. I am so blessed and thankful in my heart today. God has so much He wants to share with me and with you. There is so much more that God wants to give to you and so much He wants to give to me today. I am looking for His glory to fill my life – even in a greater way then He has ever done before. There is so much more ahead. I'm so excited. Bring it on Lord!

Just Like Dad

Luke 12:32 NLT - "So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.

Unlike a lot of people, I have been given the blessing of having godly examples in my life – especially in my Father and in both of my grandfathers. They, each in their own way, gave themselves to ministering to their families and passing on the gems of wisdom to each of their children and grandchildren. It could have been the simple task of how to use a screw driver or how to plant a garden or the more difficult task of how to live your life for God and how to walk with integrity in this world. Most of all, they taught me how to minister to my kids and now my own grand kids. My dad and my now deceased grandfathers modeled giving in my life. They lived out the generous life. If there was a need – they would all do anything they could to help others out. It seems, that there was always room at our table for one more. It is with lessons like these and the examples given to us by our Heavenly Father through scripture that I am now able to lead my family and now my congregation. To many, I am the only dad that they've ever had. People look up to me now for help and wisdom and strength. It's a great responsibility but one I accept because I've been trained well. The way that God and my dad and grandfathers have led me are now ingrained in my life and I am so blessed with the opportunity to make a difference on this earth and in the High Desert. It is such a joy to serve each and every person that God puts in my life.

Your Trial Becomes Your Blessing

Psalms 84:6 NLT - When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs, where pools of blessing collect after the rains!

The Children Of Israel would often make a journey to Jerusalem to worship God. It was a steep mountainous area that went through many valley's. The author describes one of those valley's as the Valley of Baca or the Valley of weeping. Although, we don't know exactly where that valley is - it is symbolic of the valley's each of us must go through in our own journey to be in the presence of God. Growing strong in God's presence is often preceded by a journey through barren places in our lives. The person who loves to be with God will see his/her difficulty and trial as part of the journey that will draw us closer to Christ. It is those dark places that draw us closer to God and His presence. It during those times that we find ourselves calling out to God and for His help. The valley of Baca became a place where the autumn rains would collect and become an oasis to those who travel through it. God sees ever tear you shed and every piece of brokenness that you bear. Your tears have been caught by God and He will not forget you. Your place of hardship will become your place of blessing. Wait for it. Don't give up. God is with you today.

How To Be Strong In The Lord

Daniel 11:32 ESV - ...The people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.

There are all sorts of Christians today from the very immature to the very strong and powerful. I think, for the most part in America, most people would profess that they are a Christian but few even darken the church doors to deepen their faith in Christ. They identify the fact that they are Christian but their lives prove otherwise. On the other hand, there are those who are so devoted to God and spend time with Him on a daily basis – and it is seen and noticed in the way that they live their lives. Daniel, in this passage explains to us how to become a strong and powerful Christian – it is by getting to “know” God. In order for us to understand this – we need to break this word down and find its deeper meaning. The word “know” is the Hebrew word “Yada” which could be defined as “intimacy” in the Bible. Genesis 4:1 tells us that “Adam “knew” (yada) Eve and she conceived. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out what “yada” meant to this couple. They we're intimate which produced children. It's the same with us – as we come to “know” (yada) with God – as we are intimate with Him then we will be strong and be able to take action against the enemy of our souls. When Jesus was on the earth the Bible says that He spoke with authority and power (vastly different then the way the Pharisees spoke). To obtain that power He did what each of us should do every day – spend quality time with our Heavenly Father – getting to know Him and be known by Him. As we do that, the Bible says that we will be endued with power from on high and will be filled with the Holy Spirit enabling us to deal with Satan and his cohorts. “We are more than conquerors.” “He that is in me (Jesus) is greater then he that is in the world.” As we begin to spend time with our Heavenly Father on a daily basis – God will do mighty things in our lives.

You Are Deeply Loved By God

Daniel 10:19 NLT - "Don't be afraid," he said, "for you are deeply loved by God. Be at peace; take heart and be strong!" As he spoke these words, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, "Now you may speak, my lord, for you have strengthened me."

The other day I was praying with someone when the Lord impressed me to tell them that they we're “so loved by God.” As I began to open my mouth to speak those words God impressed me to add the words, “you are so DEEPLY loved by God.” Instantly this person began to weep with great sobs and tears because of the void within their own lives that any one, especially God, would even care or love them. Other translations use the phrase “you are precious” or “esteemed” to define this deep love that God has for us. When you think and ponder about this – it is an amazing thing – the deep love of God for each and every one of us. This world that we live in can at times be very harsh and cruel by non-Christians and by Christians alike. Love is sometimes non existent. But I'm always amazed that in the midst of all hurt and pain – God's love shows up in the most unusual places – a feeling, a thought, through another person, a blessing in the mail, a kind word, etc. God does DEEPLY love each of us and if we look we will see His hand reaching out to us, reminding each of us again again, “I haven't forgot you. I know what's best for you. I'm here for you. Here... take my hand and I will walk with you because you are so DEEPLY loved by me. You are my child and I am your God. I have a plan for you and it is good. Be still and know that I'm God. Trust me today and I will take care of every need you might have.”

The Secret To A Powerful Life

Luke 4:1, 14, 18 NLT - Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit to go out into the wilderness, ... Then Jesus returned to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit's power. Soon he became well known throughout the surrounding country. ... "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has appointed me to preach Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the downtrodden will be freed from their oppressors,

Three times in this passage we see that Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit or that the Holy Spirit rested upon Him. It's interesting... here is Jesus, God's son, in need of the Holy Spirit in His life. The reason: He was just a man living and walking on earth. He needed the same help and the same power that you and I need every day. When He came to earth from Heaven - He laid His God attributes down that He might experience what you and I go through – temptations, trials, difficulties, and the list could go on and on. To deal with each of those issues - Jesus needed the Holy Spirit every day of his life. He had to plug into this power just like you and I do every day in prayer and in meditation. Often, the Bible shows how He would slip away to a quiet place to pray. He, the man, had to fill His tank and had to hear from God. It is no different with you and I today. We must be filled with the Holy Spirit in our lives in order to make it through this day. I want it said of me today that Bill Burnett left his house full of the Holy Spirit and with power and that God used him in a special way to touch the people of the High Desert.

Just Who Is God?

Psalms 130:3-4 NLT - LORD, if you kept a record of our sins, who, O Lord, could ever survive? But you offer forgiveness, that we might learn to fear you.

Just who is God? What is His nature? Is He some God in the heavens just waiting to hit us with a lightning bolt every time we sin or is He a loving God who embraces and loves us and nurtures us along. Many people have it in their mind that He is the harsh judgmental God whose nature it is to punish each and every one of us - but that is not the picture I see. Yes... we will be judged for our wrongs and our sins. God wouldn't be God without that being part of His nature. But God is more than that. He is filled with kindness and love and mercy. He doesn't hold our past against us. He's not looking for ways to make our lives full of pain and suffering. In fact, He's just the opposite. He seeks a relationship with us. He wants to be our friend. He was willing to do anything in order to reach us, even allowing the death of His son – Jesus. I am a product of God's love and mercy. He has reached down and picked me up and set me upon a rock. I was so broken and hurt and filled with so much pain but God lifted me up and gave me a new purpose in life. He has revitalized me and has given me a second chance. I am so glad that He hasn't held my ugly past against me and has loved and restored me from sinful ways. God is so good. I am so blessed to have Him as my God!

Whatever God Wants

Luke 1:26-38 NLT - In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! " Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. "Don't be frightened, Mary," the angel told her, "for God has decided to bless you! You will become pregnant and have a son, and you are to name him Jesus. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!" Mary asked the angel, "But how can I have a baby? I am a virgin." The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby born to you will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she's already in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant, and I am willing to accept whatever he wants. May everything you have said come true." And then the angel left.

I never get tired of reading this story. Can you imagine what Mary was feeling? She is going about life as a teenager in the village of Nazareth and all of a sudden an angel shows up and says he has a message from God for her. The scriptures say she was confused and disturbed. I think I would feel the same way. After reassuring her and telling her not to be afraid - the angel continues with the word from God that she had been chosen to impregnate her with the coming Messiah. I love her response... "I am the Lord's servant, and I am willing to accept whatever he wants. May everything you have said come true." A simple statement filled with so much truth. As I read and re-read this story today I pondered on these words of Mary. They are filled with so much trust and faith in God and His promise to her. They are the words that should grace each of our hearts today. They are the words that should be our daily prayer - “I am willing to accept whatever he wants...” Many people I talk to say they had some experience like this as a child or as a teenager. It was a time when God called them and spoke destiny to their hearts. But... as they grew older they walked away from what was said over them. It is my prayer today that all of us would look back at the place where God challenged us and where God spoke direction to our lives. I want to be like Mary today with attitude of saying “God, I'll do whatever you want.” I pray that type of obedience will be upon us all today.

A Little Bit Of Heaven Now

Revelation 21:3-4 NLT - I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, "Look, the home of God is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever."

Think about what life would be like without any pain or suffering. Does it sound too good to be true? John, in Revelation, paints a picture of what heaven will be like and says that God will wipe away all our tears and sorrows. There will be no more death and there will be no more pain. Every day I deal with people's hurts and pains. I speak with those who've given up on life and those who are suffering from the grief of the past. It can be, at times, overwhelming. God, knowing what we endure and go through on life, gives us a glimpse of heaven and He reminds us that we won't always have to deal with the daily burdens of life. Heaven will be a different place. It will be a place of joy. Think about that. We will have unending joy! We won't have the burdens of life on us anymore. We won't deal with death. We won't have to deal with conflict. We won't be sorrowful. And... more than all of that – we will be with Jesus 24/7. Wow! What a promise. What hope. We are on this earth but our real citizenship is in heaven. We are just passing through. You might say... but I want a little bit of heaven right now. God, knowing what we need made a deposit with you and I by giving us the Holy Spirit in our lives. It is the down payment of more to come. Someday we will all be heaven, for those who have given their hearts to Christ. But in the meantime, the Holy Spirit is with us to comfort and lead us and give us a little bit of heaven now.

A Grandpa Story

Psalms 145:18-21 NLT - The LORD is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him sincerely. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cries for help and rescues them. The LORD protects all those who love him, but he destroys the wicked. I will praise the LORD, and everyone on earth will bless his holy name forever and forever.

About once a day I receive a call from my call from my daughter Erin. However, when I answer the phone there is no voice on the other side as she has given the phone to her daughter (my granddaughter) to speak to me. For a few seconds I end up speaking baby talk and connecting with my little girl. And... even though we don't see each other we have a great grandpa/granddaughter connection. When she comes to my house or sees me at church – she comes running into my arms because she knows that I'm her grandpa. These moments don't have to be long moments and are often short moments that remind each of us who we are and that we belong to one another. I have that same relationship with my Heavenly Father. There will be moments during my day where I just run to His arms and allow Him to speak His healing power of love over me. I might not be able to stay long but in that short amount of time I remember again who I belong to and who it is I love and serve. Its during those short moments that I am also able to calibrate the bearings of my life for that day – that I keep my focus and do what God wants me to do. I'm never more then a quick prayer away from Him. He is always there and is always looking out for me. He loves it so much when I sneak away from the busyness of life to just communicate with Him and tell Him how much I love Him. When I pick up my granddaughter and have a moment with her – she (in her wiggly state) will soon want back down to go play. But I know this... she'll be back again and again because she is safe in her grandpas arms. It is the same way with God. He is waiting for you today.

The Type Of Heart That I Want

Ezekiel 36:26-27 NLT - And I will give you a new heart with new and right desires, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony heart of sin and give you a new, obedient heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so you will obey my laws and do whatever I command.

My childhood home was a place of butterflies. The rolling hills and the sprawling farms we're a great habitat for these beautiful creatures to make a home for themselves. Now... as a kid, I couldn't just watch them – I had to catch them and observe them. I had a homemade butterfly net and often would take it out and catch the butterflies and bring them home – put them in a cage of some type and would just watch them. What was more fascinating was to find a caterpillar and put it in a jar with some leaves and watch the process of turning into a cocoon and then to watch the transformation and emergence of a beautiful butterfly. This “transformation” is no different then our journey and walk with Christ. There has tom come a dying of our old self in order to be developed and changed into one of God's creatures. Ezekiel states it well that our former self was a life of sin and our hearts we're stony. God's desire is that we would become a heart and life that is filled with His spirit and obedient to whatever God asks of us. I want that for my life and it is my daily prayer. I want this for you also. It is my prayer today that each of us would allow God to come into our life and do whatever He so desires with each and every one of us. I know I have come a long way but there are days that I wake up and realize that there are many places of hardness that is still in my soul. I want that soft and pliable heart and I want to be sensitive to God and to those around me. The on-going dying process is not easy but those who submit to it find that there is a new creature waiting to emerge in all its beauty and grace.

Waiting In The Midst Of The Darkness

Lamentations 3:25-26 NLT - The LORD is wonderfully good to those who wait for him and seek him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the LORD.

Waiting has never been one of my strong suits in life. It doesn't come easily and it is a grind every time I have to put it into practice. Jeremiah, in this passage, had just seen the take over and destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon (present day Iraq) because of the sins of the priest and of the people of Israel. The military advance on the city had left the city of Jerusalem in ruins and the people in disarray. Famine had brought much death and disease, leaving the people with little or no strength left. Many we're taken into captivity and taken from their homeland, never to see their beautiful city or homes again and others we're left to deal with what remained as the aftermath of war. Jeremiah went into a deep depression and wondered if God had left them completely. His grief left him wondering about his own trust and faith in God. And... when things seemed liked they we're at rock bottom – God showed up. Light began to dawn on darkness and life began to spring forth into Jeremiah's heart. He began to see the hand of God and he began to see the big picture. God had a plan and God hadn't forgot or walked away from His people. Perhaps you are in a difficult situation today and you've lost all your hope. It might be that your dreams have come to an end and you can't see what God is doing. Don't give up – your dawn is yet to come. God will come through and will bring you to the place you need to be. Call out to Him and let Him know that you are trusting Him no matter what the enemy has said or has done in your life. God is still sovereign and God is still in control. You can count on that today!

Waiting In The Midst Of The Darkness

Lamentations 3:25-26 NLT - The LORD is wonderfully good to those who wait for him and seek him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the LORD.

Waiting has never been one of my strong suits in life. It doesn't come easily and it is a grind every time I have to put it into practice. Jeremiah, in this passage, had just seen the take over and destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon (present day Iraq) because of the sins of the priest and of the people of Israel. The military advance on the city had left the city of Jerusalem in ruins and the people in disarray. Famine had brought much death and disease, leaving the people with little or no strength left. Many we're taken into captivity and taken from their homeland, never to see their beautiful city or homes again and others we're left to deal with what remained as the aftermath of war. Jeremiah went into a deep depression and wondered if God had left them completely. His grief left him wondering about his own trust and faith in God. And... when things seemed liked they we're at rock bottom – God showed up. Light began to dawn on darkness and life began to spring forth into Jeremiah's heart. He began to see the hand of God and he began to see the big picture. God had a plan and God hadn't forgot or walked away from His people. Perhaps you are in a difficult situation today and you've lost all your hope. It might be that your dreams have come to an end and you can't see what God is doing. Don't give up – your dawn is yet to come. God will come through and will bring you to the place you need to be. Call out to Him and let Him know that you are trusting Him no matter what the enemy has said or has done in your life. God is still sovereign and God is still in control. You can count on that today!

The Right Foundations

Matthew 7:24-29 NLT - "Anyone who listens to my teaching and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse, because it is built on rock. But anyone who hears my teaching and ignores it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will fall with a mighty crash." After Jesus finished speaking, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, for he taught as one who had real authority--quite unlike the teachers of religious law.

I'm really looking forward to this day as I get to speak to the children from New Life Christian Academy. These young children are such a joy to me and I love to see their lives grow in the ways of the Lord before my own eyes. Today... I'm going to talk about building the right foundations for their life by using this story of two men who built their houses – one upon the sand and the other upon a rock. The houses we're both tested by storms and only the one on the rock stood. It's so important for them to make right choices now as it will effect the way they live out their lives as adults. Choices are so important – especially in the formative years where foundations are being built. The storms of life will come to every person but only those who have built their lives upon the Lord Jesus will stand strong. Think about your foundations today. What are you standing upon? Is the ground solid and strong or is it shaking and sand-filled? I would encourage each and every person today to begin to focus on your foundations. Shore up anything that is weak and build the right pillars for future rooms to yet be built. Build your house on the ROCK – Jesus Christ.

Where Is God?

Psalms 48:9-10 NLT - O God, we meditate on your unfailing love as we worship in your Temple. As your name deserves, O God, you will be praised to the ends of the earth. Your strong right hand is filled with victory.

I walked outside this morning to get the newspaper and immediately looked up and saw the stars and the different formations. I didn't say it verbally but within my heart I spoke the words “Thank you Lord.” It was a simple but honest prayer because the thoughts of God and His handiwork always with me. David talks about worshiping God in the Temple but, in reality, the temple of God is not just an awe inspiring building with stain glass windows and with beautiful decorations but it is everywhere I go. His presence is my temple and I take this with me – always. I speak His name often and I tell Him how much I love Him. My life is consumed with who He is and what He does. In fact, if the truth be known – I give Him praise in my dreams while I am asleep in bed. He is part of every decision in my life – major and small. Looking back, I know that He has always been with me and He will always go with me. His strength is seen in His right arm as it comes alongside me with victory every day. So, I come again today to “meditate” - think, dwell and ponder on who God is and am reminded once again about how great our God is and the many blessings He has placed upon my life. I am so blessed!