THE SUN IS OUT THERE SOMEWHERE

For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, (Ephesians 1:15, 16 ESV)

When I lived in the state of Washington I had to deal with the fact that almost every day was filled with clouds or rain - especially in the winter.  Sometimes it would be over a month before we would see the sunshine.  It seemed like it was always gloomy and cold.  I remember when we first had an oppportunity to fly home of this astounding fact: as we flew through the clouds - the sun was still up there.  It was always there - but we couldn't see it!  That is a lesson for all of us to learn about our personal lives also, that, the SON is still out there even if we don't see Him.  One of the things I like about reading Paul's letters in the Bible was the fact that he was always thankful about something.  Things might have been going very badly for him but he always found something to be thankful for.  His life had been so radically changed and altered after he turned his life over to Christ that no matter how difficult his journey was - he had developed a thankful heart for the grace given to him in that Christ Jesus saved him.  He knew that the SON was out there somewhere.  He developed a thankful heart inspite of the opposition and trials that he was facing. He always found a way to be thankful for something.  In this passage Paul simply says that he is thankful for "you, remembering you in my prayers."  Time or space could not contain room for all the people in my life who I am so thankful for - people who have stood with and prayed for me and my family for years.   I will always be humbled and thankful for the many blessings I have received by so many loving and caring people. It is so easy for us to be caught up in the moment and to develop a negative attitude of heart.  Our situation - good or bad can be the most consuming thing that we can see or feel at the time.  It is so important and even imperative that we train our minds to be thankful.  It is so important to remember that Jesus Christ - God's SON is out there - even if we can't see Him.  As we enter into this fall season I would like to challenge you to pause for a moment and just remember what you have to be thankful for: a friend, a family member, a blessing, etc.  Or maybe like Paul, you are just thankful for the grace extended to you and saved you from your past.  I know that is true of me - that I'm so thankful that God loved me and saved me.  I am so blessed and thankful today.

HANDLING LIFE'S STRESS AND PROBLEMS

In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. (Ephesians 1:11-14 ESV)

Not just in this passage but in the whole Book of Ephesians we see a phrase that is of great importance to us as we grow in our understanding of who Christ: it is - "In Him."  Actually, in Ephesians this phrase is used 119x's indicating its importance to us as readers of this book.  Everything we need can be found "in Him."  Our forgiveness for our sins and our forgiveness to others, our salvation, our inheritance, all of God's promises and much much more.  When I feel overwhelmed and unable to move forward or to forgive or to step out in faith - I wrap myself up "in Him."  It is "in Him" that we find our peace and "in Him" that we find the strength to do what we need to do.  It is "in Him" we can receive all the promises of God in our life. When I'm weak and weary - I can go and be "in Him" and find the help that I need.  This is more than a mere promise with no backing or power but it is a promise that comes with the full force of God Almighty making sure that His promises to us are fully fulfilled and delivered to each of our lives.  I don't know what you are going through in your life right now but may I encourage you to wrap yourself up "in Him" right now.  As He wraps His arms of strength around you He will insulate you from the doubts and indifferences that seem to plague each and every one of us.  When Satan comes and knocks on the door of your life - don't answer it.  Let Him who wraps Himself around you answer it and let Him who loves and cares for you handle whatever is bothering you today.  You are "In Him" and are so loved by God Almighty.  Trust Him to do what is best and right for you and your life.

GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the  of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. (Ephesians 1:7-10 ESV)

As I look at this scripture there are a few phrases that really jump out for a person's consideration:

• "In him we have redemption through his blood" - Jesus paid the ultimate price for my salvation.  He bought my freedom with his death and resurrection.
• "The forgiveness of sins" - It is not something I could ever do for myself nor is it possible for me to be able to pay the price as Jesus did for this to take place.
• "According to the riches of his grace" - I didn't deserve salvation or forgiveness of sins but Jesus made it possible through His grace.
• "Which he lavished upon us" - When I think of the word lavish I think about giving and pouring out more than enough.  There is more than enough grace for the whole world - especially for my personal sins.
• "Making known the mystery of his will" - It is no longer a mystery as we know that God's will was to send Jesus Christ for my sins (the redemption of my sins) and of the whole world to be saved.
• "Fulness of time" - Someday everything will culminate in the soon coming return of Christ and those who believe in him will reign with him forever and ever.

I've been pondering over these verses over and over recently and recommitting them to memory as they are rich and full of promise to each and every one of us.  Often, we only see a small part of the pie and don't see the who grand scheme of things.  God has a plan for each of our lives and He is not done with us.  I often only see the problems and trials that are around me but I'm part of a bigger story much bigger than my little world and issues that I might have.  Trust Him today to help you see His plan for your life and that God will never forget any promises that He has made to you.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV).

YOU CAN BE FREE TODAY

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight (Ephesians 1:7, 8 ESV)

When I think of the word redemption I picture a slave who has been put on the auction block to be sold to the highest buyer.  He is in captivity and has seen the worse of mankind's efforts.  He is of little use to the master who is in a sense throwing him away.  The bidding takes place and the highest bid goes to one man - Jesus Christ who paid with His own blood - the ultimate price that could be paid.  The slave is freed and taken to a place where not only will he be free but He will also become the "adopted" son with full rights to the inheritance.  What a drastic shift in circumstances.  The word "redemption" is a very interesting word with many connotations for all of mankind everywhere.  It means to be "bought us back" - "to be liberated."  Jesus did that with His blood.  He paid the "ransom" for your freedom from captivity.  Think about the bondage and or sin that has kept you bound and trapped throughout your lifetime - whether you are a Christian or not.  Imagine that it is you in that prison looking out and wondering if you will ever be free.  Now, I want you to imagine that Jesus walks up the prison door and unlocks it and lovingly says, "You are free to go now to come and follow me."  You would think that most would take advantage of that opportunity and go free.  But sadly, that is not the case for people as the don't want to accept the freedom given to them.  I once heard of a man that had captured an eagle and put a chain on it's leg that was attached to a log.  All that the eagle could do was walk in a circle around the log.  He did this for years and years.  He could see the mountains in a distance and he could see other eagles flying around in the sky but he could not go to those places because of his captivity.  As fate would have it, this man was found out by some official and was required to cut the chain of the eagle to allow it to go free. The problem was this; the eagle keep going in circles in the same pattern it always walked in.  It didn't know that there was option now for him - that... he could fly.  Finally, with a little nudging he was able to move away from his bondage into the freedom that was before him.  Jesus has given you the opportunity to be free in every sense of the word.  He has "bought you with a price,"  he has "unlocked" your prison doors and he has also "cut every chain" holding you back.  He has given you every opportunity to follow him in every way.  You are redeemed today!

I'M ONE OF GOD'S KIDS!

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. (Ephesians 1:3-6 ESV)

When it comes to the word "adoption" in the Bible - I have a very tender heart to this concept because our family has seen 3 adoptions take place over the years. Adoption in the Roman Culture was a really big thing - especially when it came to sons.  If a person didn't have a natural born son to inherit his estate he would be adopt an underpriviledged boy to be his son and rightful heir.  This was not a small decision for it carried the whole weight of the legal system.  That boy, even though he might have been raised in less-than circumstances would become a  full-fledged son with rights to the properties and monies that were in the estate.  He wasn't consided a half-son or even an adopted son.  He was considered a full son in every sense of the word - in name and in responsibility. It is no different in our lives also.  Before we became Christians - we weren't living for God and we weren't part of the family of God.  We were in the world and living and doing our own thing.  But then something happened - we realized that our lives were sinful and we then made that journey to God where He totally forgave us and made us His son or daughter.  He didn't do this lightly but with His sacrifice on the cross He made it legal so that we could fully be adopted into His family.  We are now His sons and daugthers fully.  We have an inheritance awaiting for us.  We are not God's step children but fully accepted and recognized as a legal son/ daughter of God.  Think about that as you read this - you belong to God and you carry His name over your life today.  No matter what your past has been like - your future is going to be so much better.  God loves you so much and He is preparing for you to live with Him someday.  In fact, He is preparing a mansion just for you.  So, put away those negative thoughts about yourself because you are somebody special - you are God's child and He is so in love with you and so proud of you today! You are one of God's kids!

GOD CHOSE ME FIRST

...even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love (Ephesians 1:4 ESV)

As a kid I grew up in a rural community about 60 miles north of Los Angeles.  We lived right up against the mountains and orange orchards so our days were not spent inside but were spent mostly outside with all my friends who lived on our street.  We did everything together from hiking, building forts, playing tag to basically anything you might imagine a young boy could do outside in a country setting.  During the summer we started playing in the morning and often didn't come inside until we were called in for dinner in the evening. Some of my best memories in life come from that season of life. One of the things we used to do regularly was to play baseball in the street.  (To say that I have broke a few house and car windows would be a understatement).  We would line everyone up and pick teams - which I absolutely hated unless I was the captain and was able to pick my teams.  Often, because I was smaller than most I would be picked toward the last and I never liked that. In that context - I understand this verse so much more. When it comes to God - He Chose Me First - before the He created the world. Think about that for a moment... before you were even born - you were on His mind.  He knew that you were going to choose to follow Him so He chose you and loved you first that you might live a holy and blameless life before Him.  Today, I would like to challenge you and remind of the incredible love that Christ has for you.  Stop and contemplate that and let it go deep into your heart.  He knew what parents you would have and what you would look like.  He knew what your likes and dislikes would be and He also knew what struggles you would face.  He knows what is in store for tomorrow.  He loved you first and He is absolutely crazy over you.  If God was to take out the pictures in His wallet - yours would be there for Him to show everyone of how much He loves you today.  As you go through this day - remember that there is a God who loves you and has not forgotten you.  Tell Him how much you love Him and be thankful for what God has given you.

MY LIFE VERSE

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, (Ephesians 1:3 NKJV)

Unlike many people who weren't raised in a Christian home, I have had the privilege of being raised by godly parents and in a Christian environment - to which I am so grateful for.  I had parents who instilled values, faith and character in me and in my siblings on a day by day basis.  As a result - both my brother and sister and all our kids all follow Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  All 3 of us kids are in full time ministry and our children and grandchildren are following Christ also - many of whom are serving alongside us. To date - there are 38 (including my mom) of us who are walking in the ways of The Lord.  It doesn't mean we are perfect or that we don't have problems and struggles but it does speak volumes to the way we were raised and the values that were instilled in us that we've passed on to our children who are passing it on to their children.  It speaks of the many prayers (often with much tears) that were prayed to God Almighty for his help and strength. To be in a gathering with my whole family brings such delight and joy as we celebrate together what God is doing in our lives.  We will laugh, cry and encourage one another in the ways of The Lord.  We all stand on that verse in Acts 16:31 that says, "Believe on The Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved, you and your household."  We have stood on that verse and have cried out in tears in prayer over our children who at times were dealing with struggles and temptations.  Now, I am the patriarch for our family - a huge responsibility.  Every morning I rise early with the heavy responsibility of lifting each member of my family, my mom, my brothers and sisters and their kids, my wife, my kids and their kids up to God in prayer.  I call out their names personally and I pray for them and their specific needs.  I am calling out to God for generations to come that the power of Christ would live in and through our family for years to come.  Truly, as Ephesians 1:3 says, we've been "blessed with every spiritual blessing."  That has been my life verse and it is a promise I stand on every day.  I am so thankful to God for ALL His blessings in my life!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT END TIMES

“And behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” “Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:7, 12-14, 17, 20 ESV)

Lately, I have been fascinated about reading about end times - about what will happen to us and to the world we live in.  As I read scripture it is with a new freshness and with an open heart to visually see and hear what will "soon" take place. Now, I know that there can be different interpretations about the Lord's coming and I also know that the word "soon" can mean different things to us and a totally different meaning to the way God looks at it.  But... bottom line is this - Jesus is coming soon and we need to always be ready for the soon coming of The Lord Jesus Christ.  The world is escalating in its corruption and the signs of His coming are all around us - earthquakes, famine, wars, etc. The drum beat is getting stronger and stronger that something is about to happen. It is interesting that Revelation 22 uses the word "soon" over and over.  We must live our lives in such a way that whenever "soon" happens that we will be ready.  Keep your "robes" washed that you might have the right to the tree of life.  It is the key to your entrance into the kingdom of God. It is your ticked to eternal life.  If you are not living for Christ today - may I encourage you to take that next step and fully surrender to Him.  Come to Him "thirsty" and He will give you the water of life freely - It won't cost you a thing.  Your future depends on it!

WE WIN!

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. (Revelation 12:7-11 ESV)

I like a good mystery.  I enjoy sitting down with a book filled with suspence that you have to wait until the last chapter to figure it out the plot and "whodunnit."  However, when it comes to real life I want to know what happens before I get there so as to prepare myself for what is coming.  In God's Book - The Bible - we are given a story with many characters but we are never left in suspense about God's purpose and plan for all of us.  From the very beginning we see that God's plan for mankind is for them to ultimately live with Him in Heaven forever and ever.  That,  we who were lost and in sin would accept the provision that was made for us on the cross by God's son, Jesus Christ.  That's it.  That's the whole plan.  And, we are not left in the dark about what will take place in the end.  Someday, there will be a great battle between God and Satan (the dragon) in which Satan will be defeated by the mighty hand of God.  He will be thrown down to earth and his angels with him.  He who has been our enemy in life and who has been bringing accusation against us day in and day out will be defeated by the blood of Christ and the word of our testimony.  In other words, We Win!  You can look at the end of the book and see then end results.  The victory is ours then and it is ours now.  Stand up today and take hold of what Christ has already promised you - victory and defeat over sin, habits, disappointments, failure, sickness, etc.  We are victors today in Christ.  Don't let the enemy take that away from you.  You are His son and daughter and you can walk in freedom in your life because God promises it and He never lies. Don't sit back in defeat but make a stand for Christ and the victory that he has promised you in your life today and forever more.  Amen!

LUNCH WITH THE KING

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. (Revelation 3:20 ESV)

I was conversing with someone the other day and the topic of their prayer life came up in the conversation.  They begin to describe this intense everyday intimate experience of sitting and dining with Jesus.  It wasn't a rushed "I've got to do this and head off to work prayer" but a carved out time of being with Jesus and having time of worshipping Him and allowing Him to speak to this person's heart.  They shared of a communion and closeness that was being experienced between them and Christ that I long for in my own life.  Granted, I have those times and seasons but this was at a whole new level.  It showed me that there is a deeper place that I need to be in my own prayer experience.  That... there was an intimacy with Christ that I was missing.  I'm reminded as I write this of the story of Martha and Mary in the Bible.  Martha was busy in the kitchen serving and cleaning while Mary took advantage of being with Jesus and just sat at His feet.  Too be honest, I find myself like Martha a whole lot.  I want the Mary experience.  I want to sit at His feet daily.  I want Jesus to fill my heart and mind and for that sweet communion to be shared between us.  Like this scripture, Christ is standing at the door of my heart and knocking.  I don't envision this as a loud banging on the door but a gentle knock of a Savior who is calling ever so quietly - "Are you awake?  If so, let's go spend some time together.  Let's go sit in the garden together and get to know each other more than we do.  Let's have a meal together and let me show you the most important thing for you to do with your life."  I don't know about you but this is what draws me in this season of my life.  I see life flying by me - events, schedules, family, work, etc.  I just want to get off the rat race for a while and sit at Jesus feet.  I want to spend some time with Him and let Him know how much I love Him.  I want to hear directly from Him - not what man says but what Christ says. My heart is willing and ready.  I am looking forward to what Jesus has to say and show me.  I am listening and ready.

DON'T LET YOUR MIND GO CRAZY ON YOU!

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. (3 John 1:2 ESV)

Many people don't realize it but there is a direct correlation between a person's soul (gr. "psyche") and our health.  The soul is our heart/ being/ mind.  It's "who" we are.  It's the area where we think, dwell and ponder upon issues.  It's where I make decisions.  It is what determines how we live our life.  It the gate to our happiness.  Look at this verse and ponder it with me today - "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he" (Proverbs 23:7).  I have to be disciplined with my thoughts for they then determine my actions. I have to be careful what comes into my mind via stories people tell me, books I read, TV programs and movies.  I cannot be dwelling on the negative parts of life and expect it to not affect me.  I cannot be dwelling on all the wrongs and evils and injustices that have come my way.  I must choose today to dwell on the good of life and the promises that God has made to me and my family.  I must do what this verse says... "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." (Proverbs 4:23).  That is, I must put a sentry at the door of my heart because how I think is often how I "feel" inside.  There is a great video clip out there of Bob Newhart acting as if he's a psychologist.  In this clip, this lady comes in to him telling him all her worries and problems.  And... she goes on and on.  Finally, she asks for his opinion on what she has been telling him. Bob Newhart who had heard enough shouts "Stop it!  Stop it right now!"  If your mind is going crazy on you -  "Stop it! Stop it right now!"  I pray that "all would go well with you, and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul."  You can experience happiness and peace today but you need to make some decisions about what you are going to be thinking and dwelling upon - your problems or God's promises for you and your life.  The choice is yours!

FULFILLING GOD'S ASSIGNMENT FOR MY LIFE

Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has become a child of God. And everyone who loves the Father loves his children, too. (1 John 5:1 NLT)

Sometimes reading God's word can be a little confusing to the average reader because God only gave a partial understanding to it's meaning.  However, there are other times when it is crystal clear with no measure of doubt.  This is one of of those scriptures that basically says, "If you love God - the fruit of that love will be that you love His children." Ouch!  This is not a suggestion but this is a direct command that carries the blessing of our Heavenly Father with it.  Throughout 1st John we are told over and over that we are to 1- Love God, 2- Love people, 3- especially other believers.  Many years ago (did I just say that?) I was feeling the call and tug into full time ministry.  As I was going to Bible College and training and being equipped to pastor I felt a prophetic voice rise up within me about the direction and focus of my ministry that "If I didn't do anything else right - that I needed to make sure that I didn't fail in this one area - to always love people."  It didn't matter where God placed me on this earth - I was to "love well."  It has been the mantra that I have lived my life by.  I've always used that as a measuring stick of whether I was being successful in ministry or not.  It mattered little about buildings and programs but it mattered a lot of whether I was fulfilling God's assignment in my life to love people and accept them just as they are.  To be honest - at times it has been harder then others but to this day I always try to love each and every person that comes my way as someone who is valuable to God and His kingdom.  There were times when I felt like I was being tested in this area and there were times that I did fail. But... there were a lot of times that I walked away feeling that peace in my heart because I just loved on one of God's kids and that He was smiling above.  I don't want to be known for having the largest church or the best programs in the community but I do want to be known as a man who "loved well" and loved the way that God would love.  In doing that I will always feel successful and in the center of God's will.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR GARDEN GROW

For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. (2 Peter 1:5-9 ESV)

I grew up in both a farming community and in a farming family.  Working the soil and harvesting the crops was deep in my dads DNA.  His green thumb was apparent in everything plant he touched.  Together with his dad (my grandpa) and myself and my brother - we worked the fields and produced many fruit bearing crops.  I spent many days in the fields with them as they prepared the soil for the most effective crop - whether it be watermelons, pumpkins, squash, apples or peaches, etc.  One of the things I learned was that you just don't plant a seed and come back in a few months to gather the harvest.  We had to turn the soil, pull the weeds, irrigate the furrows, trim the branches, spray the crop, mend fences, and the list could go on and on.  Peter tells us that if we want to have a strong walk with The Lord - we need to supplement our faith with eight different ingredients.  It's not just coming to the altar and "accepting Christ" but it is supplementing our faith with these virtues that will casue our faith to grow and flourish.  Take a look at the things we are to add to our faith:

• Virtue - This is a picture of excellence.  It is giving attention to your faith 100% - not on a part-time basis or when you feel like it.  It is making faith a high priority in your life. Virtue is a moral quality - a character value.
• Knowledge - Our faith cannot grow unless we add this virtue to our faith.  We must have knowledge and we must apply that knowledge to our life in order to grow.  Our Christian faith will never prosper unless we get into God's Word and learn what He has to say about our faith.
• Self-Control - Our faith will never grow unless we learn the value of self control.  This is learning that I must say "no" on some things and I also must say "yes" on certain things.  In other words - I am living life with purpose and only partaking of that which is good for me.  It is learning moderation and balance.
• Steadfastness - I see so many people who don't get grounded in their faith and don't apply the virtue of steadfastness to their life.  This is being faithful and grounded - especially when the storms come.  It is anchoring deep into the principels of God and His word.  It is faithfully going to church and faithfully spending time in His Word and in prayer.  It's not being persuaded by every wind and doctrine.
• Godliness - This is walking in holinesss.  It is following God and not your own whims and desires.  It is making a choice to please God rather than yourself or others around you.
• Brotherly Affection - 1 John 5:1 tells us that we really don't love God unless we love our brothers and sisters in The Lord.  Over and over we are exhorted to love one another and to exercise kindness to one another.  We are called to live at peace with all men.  This is so important.
• Love - I can only love with God's help and strength.  I can only love when I am filled with the love of the father.  This is looking past someone's flaws and mistakes.  It is loving them even if they don't love you in return.  It is God's love in us loving others.

We are exhorted that if we add these ingredients to our garden that we will not only grow but we will flourish in abunance.  May I encourage you today to make an effort to bring these supplements into your life and allow God to grow your life into that man or woman of God that He intends for you to be.  I don't want to stand before God someday and for Him to show me what my life could have been and what it actually was.  I want to hear the words "Well done, good and faithful servant."  

IS THERE A "KINK" IN YOUR LIFE?

And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” (Hebrews 12:5, 6 ESV)

I am reminded as I read this passage of something my parents used to say to me when they were about to discipline me with a spanking as a young child.  They would say, "This hurts me more than it hurts you."  As a parent and a grandparent I understand those words more now because of the love that you have for those you are disciplining.  It's interesing that "the Lord disciplines the one he loves" indicating that He wouldn't be doing this if He didn't love us as a son son or daughter.  So, what is the purpose of discipline?  Why does God bring this out in the Bible?  Again, it goes back to love.   He loves us too much for us to continue sinning.  He wants us to live the life that is best for us and is willing to put some guardrails on our life so that we will be focused in living the most God-fearing life ever.  I was thinking about how this works out in my life because sometimes I don't realize that things are out of whack.  If I am in my garden watering my plants - sometimes the water in the hose comes down to a trickle.  I will lay down the hose and follow it back to the source and realize that there is a kink in the hose.  That kink causes the flow on the end of the hose to stop flowing completely.  It is the same with God.  Rebellion, sin, disobeience causes the flow of God's power to stop in your life.  You are moving around as a Christian but there's no power or flow of the Holy Spirit.  The anointing is not there.  It is then that God begins to deal with us and to discipline our lives to unkink our hoses that are connected to the source - God Almighty.  It is easy to get mad at God during these times but the best thing to do is submit to the discipline and let God works out the kinks in our life.  It is then that the free flow of God's power and love will flow through your lives again.

THE RESULT OF SIN

For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, (Hebrews 10:26 ESV).

One of Pastor Dan's quotes is "Sin wouldn't be so attractive if it's wages were paid immediately."  This is so true.  We categorize sin with - "Oh... it's just a little lie" or "This doesn't hurt anyone but ourselves", etc.  But the truth is - sin is sin and the "wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).  Over the years, I've talked to people who just don't care about the results of sin.  They are even bold enough to say, "this might lead to a path of hell" but I don't care.  Listen to me - sin is a a very serious thing with God.  It is the thing that separates us from God's presence.  It is the thing that keeps us in a downward spiral of spiritual depravity and emptiness in our very soul.  If you have been on this path - you need Jesus to come and touch and minister to your life right now.  As you come in repentance - He will forgive you completely and throroughly.  Everyone of us  need Him to apply His precious blood to our disobedience and our sinful ways and ask for forgiveness of every evil thing that we been doing. It might be a bold and deliberate rejection of Him and His ways or it might be a subtle disobedience but whatever it is - turn to Jesus and ask Him cleanse and purify your life.  Jesus is but one decision away to bringing renewal to your soul.  He still allows "uturns" and He is waiting for you to turn back to Him.  Don't reject Him and turn away from Him.  His arms are wide and open to you as you come running back to Him right now.

ARE YOU EXPERIENCING GOD'S REST?

So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:9, 11, 12 ESV)

It seems that most people I talk to nowadays are weary both physically and spiritually.  They are so consumned with the problems and difficulties of life that their soul is never at peace but is in constant turmoil and they are personally tormented.  Even when they slow down and rest for a while - their minds never turn off and are constantly reminising events and conversations over and over.  Believe me, I know this because I'm no different.  Like you, I wake up in the middle of the night and my mind will immediately begin to rehearse those situations over and over.  Those voices speak to us all day and everyday.  It is interesting in this passage of scripture that God invites us to His rest.  We are invited to discover the peace that His Word promises us.  If you look closely at this scripture again - you will see that God gives us the key to finding and discovering His peace and rest - getting into the Word of God.  He reminds us what the word of God can do - it is active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit... and it is discerning of thoughts and intentions of the heart.  In other words - read God's Word.  Read it out loud if you need to quiet those inner voices troubling you.  Let His Word go deep into your spirit.  Let faith arise and overtake your troubled mind.  Find your peace in Him.  Find the rest that God promises you.  Don't allow the enemy to rob you what is rightfully yours.  There remains a rest for the people of God.  It's yours today.  Take it and be at peace with all that you are dealing with in your life right now.

A Word On Suffering

Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. (1 Peter 4:19 ESV)

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. (1 Peter 5:10 ESV)

One of the issues of life that none of us will be able to escape from is suffering.  It is a fact that every person who is moving forward and growing in Christ will deal with some type of suffering in their life.  People suffer in many ways and in many degrees.  It might be sickness, emotional, financial, relational, etc - or even as many around the world - persecution.  Over the years I have personally cried out to The Lord and have asked "why" certain things take place and "why" some people have undergone so much suffering only to find Him at times very silent.  But He does speak to us through His Word.  God makes it very clear that we must all suffer and that suffering causes us to grow deeper in Him in all aspects.  The Book of 1 Peter was written to a church that was suffering persecution in many harsh and brutal ways.  They were seeing their friends martyred for their faith and others being persecuted. They were having to make a stand for their faith as to whether they really believed in God or not.  Look at 1 Peter 4:19 again - that... they had to learn to "entrust their souls to a faithful creator while doing good."  It is trusting in what you don't see or feel.  It is trusting that God sees the bigger picture.  It is trusting that no matter what happens - God would bring glory out of whatever you are going through.  I also love what 1 Peter 5:10 says, "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you."  Think about that.  Someday, God will restore, confirm, strengthen and establish you.  You can count on that.  No matter what you are going through today - God is with you and will not leave you - ever.  Ultimately, you might not see it now, but God is using what you are going through to make you stronger in Him and He is establishing you in maturity and character.

Being A Christian 24/7

But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (1 Timothy 6:11, 12 ESV)  

As I write this, I am in a hotel in Las Vegas attending a Pastor's Conference this week.  As we drove thru the city I felt like I needed blinders on my eyes just to avoid the billboards of suggestive sexual inuendo's.  It is so over the top and flaunted at every corner.  The themes of "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" and that Las Vegas is "sin city" permeate the whole atmosphere - day and night.  But I am comforted by the fact that the scriptures teach us - "where sin abounds, grace does much more abound" (Romans 5:20).  I have many pastor friends in Las Vegas who are winning this city for Jesus.  We have churches all over this city - even in some of the casino's on the Las Vegas strip.  The gospel is permeating every level of society.  As I was being checked into my hotel - I was able to share Jesus with a young man who wanted to know why I was here.  When I told him - he began to tell me his story and that he personally wanted to get right with God.  I was able to get his name and phone number and passed it on to Pastor Greg Niemeyer to follow up on.  Where ever you are - whether in the High Desert or in Las Vegas or whatever city you are in - "flee these things (sin), pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness, Fight the good fight of faith."  I'm not a Christian just on Sunday.  I'm a Christian 24/7.  Pray that God would use you to reach a lost and dying (spiritual) generation.  Be the man/woman of God that God has intended for you to be.

REFLECTIONS OF ONE YEAR AGO

But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. (Philippians 3:20, 21 ESV)

One year ago today, I stood by my Father's side as He stepped from this life into eternity.  And, at that time, all of his children and most of his grandkids were with him in his bedroom as he took his last breath on earth.  Just before he died he looked at us and said that he was seeing Jesus.  We asked him if he saw his parents and my grandson Jonathan who had died previously and he said that he did.  When we pressed him for more information he waved us off and told us that it was too much to describe.  As he was in his last days and hours, we took vigils by his bedside - singing, praying, crying and even laughing at the many memories we shared together.  It was also a teaching moment to our grandkids about living life well and even ending well.  My dad knew that he was a citizen of heaven and that he was just passing through this life on the way to his real home in heaven.  His earthly body that was broken down and failing was transformed into a glorious body upon his entrance to heaven.  I am often asked if I am sad about my dad's passing and I tell them "yes" and "no."  Yes, I miss him but no I'm not sad because I know where He is and I know that He is no longer in pain and suffering.  When we would ask my dad about his favorite verse - he would often quote Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  He was a great father, friend and mentor.  He supported me through thick and thin.  And most important, he left me with a legacy of faith that I am also imparting to my children and grandkids.  I am glad to say that I'm my father's son.

WHAT DIFFICULTY ARE YOU FACING TODAY?

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20, 21 NKJV)

What "wall" do you face today?  What "difficulty" seems to be captivating your constant attention?  What "problem" is overwhelming you right now?  If you are like most of us - those situations will be daily occurances of living out life on earth.  God's Word is a great help at this time in that it reminds us that our God is bigger than any human problem or anxiety that might exist.  He is "exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think."  Think about that - your God is much bigger and stronger than anything that you might be facing right now - financial need, marriage need, family situations, finances, depression, sickness, job, school, protection, etc.  The list could go on and on.  If your problems are bigger than your God - you are serving the wrong God!  Take a moment right now to say, "God, I commit __________ (name your problem) to you right now.  I know that you can take care of this.  Help me not to worry or fret but to put it totally in your hands.  Help me to trust you right now with this situation.  I ask this in Jesus' strong name.  Amen."  Your Heavenly Father loves you so much and wants to bring blessing to your life.  He sees the bigger picture in your life and knows what is best for you.  Let these words soak into your spirit right now and let God be God in your life.  He is waiting for you to call out to Him right now.

The Marks Of A Christian

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:9-21 ESV)

Romans 12:9-21 The Marks Of A Christian

1. Let love be genuine.

Are You A Lukewarm Christian?

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. (Colossians 3:1, 2 ESV)

I am always baffled about the compartmentalizing that goes on in Christians.  They can be one way on Sunday but live a lie during the week.  When they need to be a Christian they can turn it on with all the right phrases and actions, but when they want to live like the world, they fit right into that realm without even a second thought.  This passage from Colossians challenges us that "if we have been raised with Christ" then we should be seeking the things above.  I am not a "part-time" Christian.  I don't take "vacations" from God.  He is with me 24/7 and I must live my life always for Him.  We belong to Christ and have been raised by His power over the sinful lives and habits that we have.  We are also challenged in this passage to "set our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."  This is a purposeful motion on my part.  It is action with intentionality.  It is living and monitoring every part of our life to be reflective of who is really living in and through us.  May I encourage you today to not sit on the fence but to fully come over to the side of godliness and righteousness with Christ.  Look what is said in Revelation 3... “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. (Revelation 3:15, 16 ESV).  Don't be that lukewarm Christian today.  Make a decision to live for Christ in your actions, in your speech, and in the way you walk today.  I pray those you come in contact with will "see" that Christ is in you always and that you are a reflection of someone who has been changed by the power of Christ.