| Date: |
Mon Feb 6 07:15:12 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Yesterday was Super Bowl Sunday. Did your team win? As a Cowboys fan, I obviously wasn't pulling too hard for either of the teams, although I did have my favorite. As to whom that was, you will need to ask me sometime. I did watch the game, but who didn't? The Super Bowl has become the biggest show on television. One estimate given was that 50% of the U.S. populace was watching. Can you imagine that? That means almost 150 million viewers, and that is just in the U.S. The Super Bowl is beamed all around the world. This is why it costs Super Bowl ads cost $3.5 million for a 30-second spot. Last night's Super Bowl may be the most watched event in history, but it won't be the most watched event of all time. That will take place in the future with the appearance of Christ.
When Christ appears at the Second Advent, the scripture tells us that all eyes of the world will be trained on him. Revelation 1:7 says, "'Look, he is coming with the clouds,' and 'every eye will see him, even those who pierced him'; and all peoples on earth 'will mourn because of him.' So shall it be! Amen." Those that mourn are those who have rebelled. Because of their state, they know what his coming will mean - they are headed for judgment. Those of us who have trusted in him will not mourn as we stand before Christ. Because of our hope in him, our future is with him, and when future things take place that will lead to the end of God's plan for this current age, we can be confident that our hope is with him. We can look forward to this day with joy; those who persist in unbelief can look forward to a day of mourning. Now is the time to change our mourning to joy through faith in Christ. Don't wait until you don't have that chance.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Feb 5 06:21:10 2012 |
Today's Commentary
I have so many ways of reminding myself of appointments, things to do, places to be, and other items that it is not funny. I have the old standard date book, I have my calendar on my cell phone, I have a monthly calendar, and I use email reminders - both company generated and emails I send to myself. Still I forget things. (See the post on January 27 for more information on this).
God knows about this, and that is why he has reminders for us. This is why we need regular times of worship, regular times of fellowship, and regular times of study and prayer. That is why he gave us the visible signs of our communion with him through baptism and the Lord’s Table. Through these times we are reminded of God's faithfulness and his love for us. We are reminded of his provision and his care for us. Don't avoid these times that help us to remember him. God wants us to "remember, therefore, what (we) have received and heard." (Revelation 3:3) Remembering God's promises is always a good thing.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Feb 4 08:44:56 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Dietrich Bonheoffer was born on this day (February 4) in 1906. The name may not be familiar to you, so let me tell you a little of Bonheoffer. Dietrich Bonheoffer was supposed to be a doctor, but instead studied theology and became a pastor and a professor. He even spent a year in New York City teaching Sunday School at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem. He was very concerned about how one's faith in God should translate into action for others. This desire led him back to Germany to oppose the views of Hitler and the rising Third Reich. This opposition led to his imprisonment in 1943, and his execution on April 9, 1945, just days before the liberation of Germany by the Allied Forces. Bonheoffer had a choice to make during his time in the United State. Reinhold Niebuhr, a pastor in New York, tried to persuade him to stay and voice his opposition to the Nazi party from the relative safety of America. Bonheoffer refused and said, "To endure the cross is not tragedy; it is the suffering which is the fruit of an exclusive allegiance to Jesus Christ."
Many times our stand for Jesus puts us at a right angle with others. It may be that our stand for Christ puts us in a position where we go through some hard times. Remember what Bonheoffer said about taking a stand for the cross of Christ. More importantly, remember what the Scripture tells us. James tells us, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds." (James 1:2) Paul condemns believers who weaken their stance for Christ to avoid persecution, "The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ." (Galatians 6:12) Christ tells us, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." (Matthew 16:24) Where do you stand?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Feb 3 07:25:40 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Often I have heard some say, "If we could only be able able to see God we would follow him more closely. If he would speak to us, we would have more faith." Well, I beg to differ with that. In the scripture we have examples of folks who had these provileges and still went away from him. The classic example of this is the behavior of the Israelites.
The Israelites had both a visible manifestation of the presence of God and they heard God's voice. They were led by a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire by night during their journey from Egypt to Canaan. Exodus 13:21 tells us, "By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night." When they completed the construction of the tabernacle, the cloud moved over the tabernacle to show them God's presence was with them: "On the day the tabernacle, the tent of the covenant law, was set up, the cloud covered it. From evening till morning the cloud above the tabernacle looked like fire. That is how it continued to be; the cloud covered it, and at night it looked like fire." (Numbers 9:15-16) They also heard God's voice, "As the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke and the voice of God answered him." (Exodus 19:19)
After all this, one would think that the people would be obedient and follow God faithfully. However, if one would think this, one would be wrong. You need to read Exodus 32. The people's response to their witness of God's presence was to have Aaron build a golden calf so they could have something to worship. As you can see, being able to see and hear God does not necessarily translate into being faithful to God. Being faithful is dependent upon our conscious decision to obey. As Christ said, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:29)
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Feb 2 07:54:30 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Well, today is Groundhog Day. Isn't that exciting? If the groundhog sees its shadow, then it is six more weeks of winter. Usually, we would not want that. However, if we have six more weeks of what we are experiencing right now, that wouldn't be so bad. Of course, the first day spring of is March 20, so technically we would have six more weeks of winter whether or not Mr. Groundhog saw his shadow.
Groundhog Day originated in Europe and was brought to this country by immigrants in the late 18th century. Southeastern Pennsylvania was where it got its start here, and, as you might know, that is where the most famous Groundhog Day celebration is held each year in Punxsutawney. As with most traditions of this sort, it perpetuates because of our desire to know what is coming in the future.
Christ spoke to his disciples about times that were to come. He spoke of his return and the Day of the Lord that would be ushered in at some point in the future. He spoke of signs that would be harbingers of these events. He says in Matthew 24:32-33, "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door." We don't know dates, we don't know exactly when, but we do know Christ will return. Christ, Paul, John, and Peter all encouraged followers to be prepared for this. We do well to listen to them, and we do even better when we encourage others to prepare. It has nothing to do with seeing one's shadow, but it has everything to do with believing God's Word.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Feb 1 07:37:26 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Something good to always keep in mind is that God does not need any of us. When we fail to do as we should or do things that we shouldn't, his work will go on undiminished. We should not labor under the mistaken assumption that we are indispensable when it comes to God's ministry. He wants and likes to use us, and that is why he invests a great deal of time in us, but ultimately he does not need us. When he calls us for a ministry, it is for our benefit. If we are unwilling or impure, he can call on someone else to fulfill his plan. We are the one who misses out, not God. Everything God calls on us to do is for our benefit. The purpose of our service is so that we might grow and receive blessings. When we fail, God does not miss out, we do.
Moses was reluctant to do what God was asking of him. However, don't misunderstand God's intentions in his interchange with Moses found in Exodus 3 and 4. The "back and forth" that took place in these verses does not show us God's desperation and his great "need" for Moses. His determination was to not let Moses miss what became a great privilege for Moses - leading a people who became a great nation. God told Moses, "I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do." (Exodus 4:15) When he calls us for his work that is what he will do. He wants to bless us, but he does not need us. That is what makes his desire to use us all the more special. Don’t lose this perspective!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Jan 31 07:21:52 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Many times when I am on a long drive and still have quite a distance to go before I reach my destination, I think of the words of Robert Frost's poem, "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening:" - "The woods are lovely, dark, and deep. But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep."
These words remind us of a quality that is helpful in the completion of lengthy trips and tasks - perseverance. Perseverance is helpful in working through situations that look to be lengthy and sometimes may even be undesirable. We often face tasks and experiences that require perseverance because they require time to resolve or complete. Driving a long distance is not one of my favorite things to do, but if I want to get where I want to be, I must be willing to endure the journey. Often it is that way with a situation in life. In order for the circumstance to be resolved, I must persevere.
Perseverance is also an important characteristic in achieving goals in life. Attaining a desired result often requires that we persevere. Markita Andrews was a young girl with a dream - she wanted to win a contest so that she and her mother could travel the world. At the age of 13, she set out to win the contest. She discovered that the secret of successful selling was perseverance. And persevere she did. Going door-to-door after school for hours each day, she shared her dream with potential customers and asked them, "Would you like to invest in my dream by buying one or two dozen boxes of cookies?" That year she sold 3,526 boxes of cookies and won her trip. Since then, she has sold more than 42,000 boxes of cookies, more Girl Scout cookies than anyone, ever. She realized she had "miles to go before I sleep," and sold cookies!
In Ephesians 6:18, Paul asks us to "Pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." Paul taught that perseverance in important in our prayers and in our lives in general. Develop this quality, and conquer those miles!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Jan 30 07:33:11 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Despite all the claims of Gatorade and other drinks, nothing beats water. Water is still the healthiest all-around thirst quencher. Water is better for you, and water also has properties that other drinks do not. Would you want to take a bath in Gatorade? Would you prefer a Gatorade storm refresh and renew the landscape like a rain storm? In one sense, Gatorade is just another example of a tendency we have that is not good - thinking we can improve upon what God has provided.
When I think of water, I think of one area where we cannot improve upon what God has provided in any way - the salvation of our soul. Christ uses water on many occasions as an analogy of what he provides to give us life. Jesus said to a woman he encountered at a well in Sychar, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life." (John 4:13-14) Later he declared, "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them." (John 7:37-38)
Obviously, this "water" that Christ provides needs no improvement and has no substitute. Drink Gatorade all you want to quench a physical thirst and preserve life, but when it comes to eternal life, there is only one drink that will satisfy.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Jan 29 06:10:40 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Al Roker reported on a TV special "Child Hunger Ends Here" that in our country 17 million children under the age of 18 go to bed hungry each night. This is happening all around us. This is happening in the richest country in the world. This is happening in the same nation that is struggling with an obesity issue. There are millions of children who are severely malnourished. Does this make sense to you?
I agree that there are a lot of issues and circumstances that do not make sense in our society but for me, this one, pardon the pun, takes the cake. As followers of Christ, we need to be concerned with such issues and do all we can to help others who are struggling to have enough food. James tells us, "Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?'" (2:15-16) The words of Christ should constantly ring in our ears when he tells us, "‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ He will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'" (Matthew 25:44-45)
Numbers such as I gave above sometimes overwhelm us. So, don't look at the numbers - look at people around you. I guarantee that you will not have to look far to see where you can do some good. And when you see where you can do some good, be sure to do it!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Jan 28 10:13:22 2012 |
Today's Commentary
On this date, January 28, in 1986, the space shuttle Challenger exploded 73 seconds after lift-off killing all seven astronauts on board, including Christa McAuliffe, an elementary school teacher from Concord, New Hampshire. She was the first civilian in the space program, and, obviously, the first one killed on a manned space flight. The devastating tragedy affected the families of these people profoundly and touched the lives of all citizens of the United States. President Reagan said, "There's a coincidence today. On this day 390 years ago, the great explorer Sir Francis Drake died aboard ship off the coast of Panama. In his lifetime the great frontiers were the oceans, and a historian later said, 'He lived by the sea, died on it, and was buried in it.' Well, today we can say of the Challenger crew: Their dedication was, like Drake's, complete. The crew of the space shuttle Challenger honored us by the manner in which they lived their lives. We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved good-bye and 'slipped the surly bonds of earth' to 'touch the face of God.'"
The space program learned some expensive lessons that day. They are lessons that would benefit us all. First, they learned to not be overconfident in their abilities. It had been many years since NASA had experienced fatalities. This event brought home the realization of the danger of the work. Second, they learned that small parts can cause big problems and inspections need to be really thorough. The accident happened because of a failure of a small O-ring. This leads to lesson number three: don't scrimp on expenditures where lives are involved. NASA had "cut corners" on some things, including the O-rings, and that led to terrible consequences. Finally, you must always expect the unexpected.
We should never think we "have it all together" in our spiritual lives. We must live in constant dependence on God's provisions. We should remember that small issues can lead to big problems, so don't overlook the small stuff. We should not be chintzy with our time, money, and effort in our spiritual lives. Finally, remember that the things we don't think will happen often do, so do your best to not be caught off guard. Our constant prayer should be as the one of David, "Guard my life and rescue me; let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you." (Psalm 25:20)
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Jan 27 07:04:05 2012 |
Today's Commentary
I would lose my head if it wasn't attached to my body. I don't like to lose things, I don't want to lose things, but I do. The prevalence of Lost and Found departments indicates that I am not alone in this. Usually, my search for what I have lost is conducted in proportion to the value or significance of what I have lost. One would usually expend more effort in a search for $1000 than you would for a nickel.
In response to the criticism of the Pharisees about the company he was keeping, Christ told about three lost things. You can read about this in Luke 15. He spoke of a shepherd's search for a lost sheep, a lady's search for a lost coin, and a father's search for a lost coin. Even though there was an increase of significance, the search for each was just as intense by the seekers. Christ wanted to reveal his heart for those who cared to see. He wanted to show his intent and mission in coming to the planet he created.
In each of the stories, there is great rejoicing when the lost is found. Luke 15:10 talks of the rejoicing that takes place when a lost person is found by the Savior: "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." Christ wants us to be attached to him. He wants this enough that he comes and finds us.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Jan 26 07:30:45 2012 |
Today's Commentary
I just read an interesting article about a school crossing sign on the pavement outside a high school in New York City. What made this one so unique is that the word "school" was misspelled so that instead of reading "school x-ing", the sign read "shcool x-ing." How a mistake like this could be made is somewhat understandable, but what takes this story up a notch is that the mistake has just been noticed and the sign was painted in 2010. It gets even better. After the glaring error was finally seen, there was an argument among the DOT, city officials, school officials, and even the PTA as to who was at fault. The PTA president said of the principal, "What's ironic is that the principal has probably painted the lunchroom and rooms inside over about five times since 2010." That may be, but as a PTA president, you mean you didn't notice the sign either? The sign did get changed, but what I find sad is that no one wanted to take responsibility for the mistake. Sound familiar?
This is a common problem among us - we don't like to take responsibility for our mistakes. This begins when we are young. Hey, it actually began in the garden right after the commission of the first sin. In response to God's question about having eaten the fruit, Adam said, "The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it." All too often, this scenario plays itself out in our lives. We make a mistake, and then try to pin the blame for the error on someone else.
I am not old enough to remember when Harry Truman was president, but I have read about and actually have seen a picture of a sign he kept on his desk in the oval office. This sign, with correct spelling, read, "The buck stops here". We, like Truman, should be willing to own up to our responsibilities. Proverbs 28:13 shows us the wisdom of such action, "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." When mistakes are made, don't spend energy passing the buck, do something to take care of what happened.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Jan 25 07:04:00 2012 |
Today's Commentary
God does the work of God and man does the work of man. When we keep this in mind, our lives can go much easier. God is the one who is responsible for results; our responsibility is faithfulness. When we think we are the one responsible for results, we can experience frayed nerves and a lot of stress. We will drive ourselves to an early grave with this thinking. God is the one who has the plan, our place is to maintain faithfulness as we live within his plan.
Saul is a good example of someone who didn't understand these role distinctions. He constantly leapt ahead of God in his movements and decisions and this led to his demise. This led God to send Samuel went on a search for a new king. In reference to Saul, God told Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (I Samuel 16:7)
Keep the right order. Remember your "job description" as a child of God. Do what you know you should do and let God do what he does best.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Jan 24 07:31:37 2012 |
Today's Commentary
How do you respond to those who treat you harshly? What do you say back to those who say unkind things about you, or even to you? What do you do to "get even with your critics?" How should we treat those who mistreat us?
I recently read a story about Rachel Ray and how she responded to some criticism. An article in "Slate" magazine said: "Rachel Ray may be the world's most reviled chef." Author and chef Anthony Bourdain said of Ray, "We know she can't cook. So what is she selling us? She is selling us the smug assurance that mediocrity is alright." How did Ray respond to this? She said publicly that she admired Bourdain, loved his work, and booked his favorite band for an upcoming festival. In response to this, Bourdain said, "I don't know whether to send her a fruit basket or go shoot a puppy." Ray sent Bourdain a fruit basket with a note attached that read, "So you won't go shooting any puppies."
Paul gives us this advice in Romans 12:14 - 20: "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. . .Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. . .Do not take revenge, my dear friends. . .'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.'" I don't know if Ray read this or not, but it sure sounds like she did, and now you have. So you not only have her example of how to respond to mean things, but you have God's Word!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Jan 23 07:13:08 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Some moments in life are life-changing. Something happens and we begin to see a little more clearly where we were having a little trouble seeing before. When we have these experiences, sometimes it tells us that a change is necessary. However, sometimes we are affirmed that what we are doing is just what we should be doing and that no change is necessary, except for the faith that we now have that what we are doing is what we need to be doing.
These moments can be especially true for those of us who seek to follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit and are sensitive to him. Jesus promised his disciples that he would send the Holy Spirit to guide them in their walk with Him: "the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." (John 14:26) This happens as we focus on the Holy Spirit and constantly inform him that we want his leadership. When we do, we will have those encounters where things become more in focus.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Jan 22 06:30:11 2012 |
Today's Commentary
All of us make mistakes and all of us do things we know we shouldn't do, or don't do things that we know we should. We cannot keep ourselves from making mistakes, and we have a propensity to do things that aren't right. Most of us don't like this. The important question is: Do we learn from our mistakes? Do we "learn a lesson" from our sins? That is significant.
Genesis 42 records the story of a group of brothers who were being tested to see if they had learned from their past error. You need to read Genesis 42 - 45 to get the entire picture. Joseph's brothers came before him to ask for grain years after they had plotted to get rid of him. They did not recognize him, and Joseph devised a plan to see if they had learned from their past sin. He told them, "This is how I will know whether you are honest men: Leave one of your brothers here with me, and take food for your starving households and go. But bring your youngest brother to me so I will know that you are not spies but honest men. Then I will give your brother back to you, and you can trade in the land." (42:33-32) He wanted to see how they would treat their younger brother. He got his answer (44:33-34) when Judah offered to stay in place of Benjamin, Joseph's younger brother, who had "stolen" some silver.
Yes, we all make mistakes. But do we seek to learn from our mistakes? We should do what Joseph's brothers did and correct our future path based upon past failure.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Jan 21 08:37:59 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Here is an interesting thought from "Lead Like Jesus": "Where would we be if Jesus' attitude had been, 'I will if they will'? What if His mercy and grace were predicated upon us deserving His grace? It is actually just the opposite, according to Scripture. Jesus came to serve and save those who not only did not deserve His love and intervention, but those who desperately needed it all the same."
Do you know anyone who might fit this description? Just take a look in a mirror and you will get a good picture of someone who didn’t deserve Christ's love and mercy, yet got it anyway. One of my favorite verses is Mark 10:45, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." We need mercy and Christ deals with us in mercy. Don't forget this and be thankful for how he deals with you. We need to show mercy and to deal with others the way that Christ deals with us. Keep this in mind the next time you are tempted to allow some unrealistic expectations or whatever to keep you from showing mercy in how you deal with someone. Keep this in mind as you search for someone to serve in Jesus' name. Avoid the "I will if they will" mentality and show mercy just because it is the right thing to do.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Jan 20 06:42:08 2012 |
Today's Commentary
James Thompson was an American who founded the Thai Silk Company, reviving what was a moribund industry in Thailand and providing jobs for thousands. Forty-five years ago, he strolled into a Thai jungle while on vacation and was never seen again. To this day, his demise is a mystery. However, this is only part of the story of his life. Since his death, it was discovered that Thompson was more than just a silk entrepreneur. Even more mysterious than his death was the revelation that Thompson was perhaps a "double agent." While providing information to the U.S. Government concerning Communist activities in Southeast Asia, he allegedly was something of a Communist sympathizer who was involved in aiding Communist governments in that part of the world. Where does the truth lie concerning his life? This may never be known.
While it may be possible to have an "unknown life" and keep secrets from others, we must realize we can never keep anything secret from God. God knows the inner thoughts of our minds and knows what lies in the depths of our heart. Don't ever labor under the assumption that you can keep something hidden from God. This is just not possible. Luke gives us the words of Jesus: "For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open." (8:17)
The next time you think about engaging in an activity you think it going to be kept secret, remember these words of Christ. There are no "James Thompson's" when it comes to what God knows about us.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Jan 19 07:23:35 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Showing preferential treatment to others is bad form. Openly treating some with great respect or care while treating others with indifference or even ignoring them is not what we should do in the church. Often, this takes place in family relationships. Parents, or even grandparents, sometimes have their "favorites." Simply put, this is not right. Parents should not show favoritism for one child over another either intentionally or unintentionally. Consider the example of Jacob and his preference of Joseph. This led to his brothers contemplating fratricide, which actually didn't happen, but nonetheless led to mistreatment that caused a great deal of pain for Joseph. It took God's intervention to correct and even use for good the mistreatment of Joseph by his brothers. We should not tempt God with our treatment of others. You can read all about this story in the latter chapters of Genesis.
James 2:1 speaks to this issue directly: "My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism." We should treat each other equally and show love, care, and affection to all of our brothers and sisters in Christ. This is the desire of Christ, and we should determine to treat each other equally.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Jan 18 07:39:15 2012 |
Today's Commentary
I read an article recently that put a new slant on something with which I am very familiar. Many churches in the area where I now live and many churches in the area of the country where I grew up had cemeteries near the church. Haddon Robinson writes there is a reason for this. When a church has a cemetery that is visible through the windows of the church, the pastor has a constant reminder before him of the gravity of his ministry. Reminding people of their need to develop a relationship with the Father has the utmost importance. The people who fill the pews of the church will someday fill a space in the cemetery.
Death is the inevitable conclusion for all of us. The reminder that a cemetery affords to us is appropriate not just for ministers. Solomon tells us: "It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart." (Ecclesiastes 7:2) Let us remember this as we order our lives and as we pursue activities and goals. Believe in Christ and live for Him.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Jan 17 07:35:04 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Deceit is never a pretty thing. None of us like to be deceived, and shame on us when we deceive someone else in some way. Genesis is the first book of the Bible and is a book full of tales of deceit. I find a great deal of irony that there are so many accounts of deceit in Genesis. We read one after the other from the first deception perpetrated by Satan himself to the ending account of brothers trying to smooth over the consequences of their lies. A story I find especially compelling is the infamous tale of Jacob's deception leading to the theft of a birthright. You can read about this in Genesis 27. It is hard to wrap our heads around what took place in this event, and it is equally difficult to understand the result. In spite of his devious activities, Jacob ended up being blessed by God, and became, literally and spiritually, the father of the Jewish nation.
Certainly we should not use the experience of Jacob as a model to emulate, except for the part about his turning things around and beginning to trust the Lord instead of trusting in his own wiles. As we see God using Jacob in spite of all of his back-handed ways, we come to realize that God can use us in spite of our failures. This is indeed something we should take from the account of Jacob. A statement Jacob made later in life showed that he grew to "get the message" about how he should live life and how he should view his relationship with God: "I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant." (Genesis 32:10) That is so true for all of us. We are unworthy, yet God uses us anyway. Isn't that something?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Jan 16 08:12:35 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Today is a holiday honoring the birthday of civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Born on January 15, 1929, Dr. King would have been 83 had he lived. However, his life was cut short by an assassin's bullet on April 4, 1968. After beginning his ministry at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, King was propelled to national prominence through his activism that led to many movements and marches on behalf of civil rights. Through his efforts, awareness was heightened of the plight of minorities because of racism and changes were made in attempts to thwart bigotry. In the famed "I Have a Dream" speech delivered from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963 King said, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."
Racism is something that should be foreign to the believer in Christ. Galatians 2:26 & 28 remind us of the equality that exists in Jesus, "So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith. . .there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Allowing racism goes against the mind of God and is simply a sinful attitude. The words of King ring out against racism, but more importantly, so does the Word of God. We should not have to dream of a non-racist society among believers, it demands to be real.
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Jan 15 06:05:30 2012 |
Today's Commentary
A steward is one who is commissioned to oversee the welfare and execute the affairs of another. The closer a steward is able to represent the mind of his superior, the better he fulfills his role. Therefore, when a steward is on assignment, ideally he has no personal mind or will; he strives to have the mind and will of his superior. As followers of Christ, we are stewards of Christ. We are to do the best we can to have the mind of Christ and the will of Christ. Peter reminds us, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." (I Peter 4:10)
A good example of stewardship comes from the Old Testament. Abraham wants to seek a wife for his son Isaac. He calls his servant Eliezer to him and gives him specific instructions as to where to go, what to say, and what to do to find a wife for Isaac. Eliezer carries out his wishes to the letter, and Rebekah becomes the wife of Isaac. You can read this marvelous story in Genesis 24.
Do what you should to be a steward of Christ. Like Eliezer, make sure you carry out Christ's wishes to the letter. This is what stewards do.
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jan 14 09:59:12 2012 |
Today's Commentary
An article on the "Walk Through the Bible" website that appeared recently was on hospitality. They wrote: "Don't you love hospitality? Isn't it a pleasant experience to enter someone's home and feel welcome? Hospitality is the mark of an open and giving heart. The secret to hospitality is love. If you love your guests and go out of your way to make them feel loved, you will be an exceptional host or hostess. Hospitality is such an important Christian character trait that elders in the church must be 'hospitable.' Paul writes in I Timothy 3:2 'Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.' Abraham was a man given to hospitality. Likewise, hospitality should be a trait in our own lives."
Hospitality is a character trait that I believe reflects an important issue for believers - that we are others-centered, not self-centered. When we have the mindset that "I really enjoy having others in my home" rather than "I don't enjoy having others in my home" we are reflecting Christ's attitude of "others first" and the servant heart that he had. Cultivate hospitality and create the mind of Christ in you!
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Jan 13 07:12:32 2012 |
Today's Commentary
I read an article recently where the author suggested that maybe we don't celebrate enough. Imagine that! We do celebrate birthdays, holidays, and other special events. But do we really do enough to make a big deal out of the good things that God does for us? We really should take time to celebrate some benefit or blessing we recognize as a gift from God. Genesis 21:8 tells of a big feast that Abraham held when his son Isaac was weaned, "The child grew and was weaned, and on the day Isaac was weaned Abraham held a great feast." This was part of Abraham's on-going celebration because of God's gift to Sarah and him - their son, Isaac.
Spending time to celebrate God's gifts at times other than normal "celebration days" is a good thing. It is fitting to honor God for his goodness to us. Spend some time to celebrate God's goodness. Maybe we need to celebrate more in both quantity and quality.
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Jan 12 07:13:43 2012 |
Today's Commentary
There is now available a talking Jesus doll. This sounds like an interesting product. According to what I understand, the doll delivers scriptural quotations and says things like, "I have an exciting plan for your life" and "Your life matters so much to me."
Now, there is nothing wrong with these statements. They are true, and certainly are some of the reasons why we need to follow Christ. But, we grownups must remember that Jesus also said some things that are not all that "warm and fuzzy." Jesus also tells us, "It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble." (Luke 17:2) We read his words in Luke 9:62, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." There are many difficult sayings of Jesus, and we need to make sure we follow the whole body of his teaching, not just what appeals to us or what we think sounds good. Sometimes his message is difficult and offensive to some. Matthew 10:34 says, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword."
Don't seek to tone down what Jesus said. Don't be selective in what you study. We are often selective in what we use to meet our own selfish needs. True blessing is only found in total obedience. Pay attention to all of his words!
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Jan 11 07:22:36 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Today is a day that we Cowboys fan rue. This is the 30th anniversary of "The Catch." On this day, a pass from Joe Montana to Dwight Clark in the back of the end zone as time expired led the San Francisco 49ers to victory over the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Championship game. San Francisco went on to defeat the Cincinnati Bengals in the Super Bowl that year. San Francisco became the "team of the decade" while it would be almost a decade before the Cowboys would even reach the playoffs.
Now, this was just a game, and in the grand scheme of things matters little. But it goes to show how important a single act can be. We sometimes think that what we do won't matter. We sometimes pursue an activity that we won't think will make that much difference. However, that action could bring about a consequence that we will have to live with the rest of our lives. God tells his people to live uprightly and watch how they act: "Act according to whatever they teach you and the decisions they give you. Do not turn aside from what they tell you, to the right or to the left." (Acts 17:11) Watch your acts, as you don't know how far they might reach!
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Jan 10 07:25:56 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Complete dependence upon God is an absolute necessity if we are going to experience his power and his provision. However, often we only learn about complete dependence though bitter experience. George Muller, a minister in the 19th century, was informed by the governing board of the orphanage he oversaw that there was no more money for the orphanage, he rejoiced. He told them their utter helplessness would make them depend more upon God. They did, and God met their needs.
Jacob was completely terrified about a planned meeting with his brother, Esau, whom he had wronged many years earlier. He knew that Esau was coming with 400 men the next day, and fearful of the consequences, he devised a plan to ensure the survival of half of his family. That night, he met a "man" by a stream. The "man," of course, was God in human form. Jacob wrestled with him all night until the "man" touched Jacob's hip and caused it to be dislocated. Exhausted and in great pain, Jacob could only hold on to the "man" and plead for his blessing. Free from his own efforts and after expressing total dependence upon God, God told him, "Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome." (Genesis 32:28) The change in name indicated there was a change in Jacob. He was indeed blessed by God, and went on from there with God's blessing and a perpetual reminder of God's intervention.
You don't need to wrestle with God all night to receive his blessing. All you need to is declare your total dependence upon him. Then you can receive his power and his favor.
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Jan 9 07:08:04 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Even as there are "armchair quarterbacks", there are "armchair mechanics." An armchair mechanic is someone who knows just enough about the operations of a vehicle's mechanical parts to be dangerous. I used to be one of these. Now, there are some things one can on your own to keep up the maintenance on a vehicle and save a few bucks. But, in our day of more sophisticated machinery and when the problem is really complicated, doesn't it make sense to take it to someone who is associated with the creation of the car and has studied all the latest innovations and improvements to know what can go wrong? Taking the car to a trained mechanic assures that we have someone who is familiar with all the workings of the car and also has the parts needed to make the repairs.
When we run into problems in life and are not sure what can be done, where should we go? Well, what about going to the One who was involved in our creation and is totally acquainted with all that might go wrong. God knows all about us, there is nothing about us that is secret to him, so why not let him be involved in our lives? He is the one who can troubleshoot the problems and provide solutions to our struggles. David writes, "You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. . .For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. . .Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." (Psalm 139:1,13,16)
Let the expert help with the problems. There is nothing hidden from his eyes. He knows you inside and out and is much more skilled than an "armchair mechanic."
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Jan 8 05:57:30 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Object lessons are a good teaching tool. Using objects to illustrate a concept is really helpful and can make a lasting impression. Christ used this technique a great deal in his teaching. Consider all the parables he used to emphasize principles.
There are many object lessons in the physical world that reflect spiritual truth. One that is so great is how the resurrection is pictured throughout nature. We fall asleep at night but awaken in the morning. There are many things that "die" each fall, lie dormant throughout the winter, only to awaken in the spring (come on, spring!). The earth died during the Great Flood, but life emerged from the ark at the conclusion of the flood. God made a covenant that the earth would never die again in this way when Noah and his family began their task of restoring the earth. We read in Genesis 9:12-16: "And God said, 'This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.'"
Death is a fact of our existence, but we have reminders all around us of how God can and will give us life through his Son, Jesus Christ. Christ said, "He who believes in me has everlasting life." (John 6:47) When Noah received God's promise, he worshipped. As a result of the object lessons we have that tell us what God will do, so should we!
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jan 7 09:08:23 2012 |
Today's Commentary
It seems that you have to be careful if you are relying on a compass for a navigational tool. Since 1989, the earth's northern magnetic pole has been shifting towards Siberia at a rate of 34 miles per year. That has accelerated from 4 miles per year in 1904. So, one needs to be careful when using a compass. You might want to consider a GPS instead, as this device relies on technology that is a little more stable and therefore more trustworthy.
We have to be careful in our spiritual lives as well. We have to be careful with shifting values and standards. Society likes to adjust what is considered to be acceptable and right. We have seen a great moral shift in our culture in the last several years. We should not rely upon societal norms when it comes to what we accept as wrong or right. We need to trust something that is more accurate and not subject to change. God has given us a moral code in the Scripture, and we should rely upon what the Bible says when it comes to living a life that glorifies Him.
Living a righteous life is a sign of maturity. The writer of Hebrews says, "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." (5:14) Train yourself to distinguish good from evil. Follow the right instrument!
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Jan 6 07:24:58 2012 |
Today's Commentary
For most of man's history, long distance communication was accomplished through written communication. Since the latter part of the 19th century, there has been an explosion of electronic communication methods that now include the ability to see each other while we talk regardless of where we happen to be on the planet. Vocal communication is superior to written for a number of reasons. Basically, for most casual communication, it is just good to hear someone's voice.
That is something we need to keep in mind as we think of prayer. Some often wonder "why pray when God knows what we are thinking?" Well, to put it simplistically, God wants to hear our voice. A great part of the joy of communication is hearing one's voice. God likes to hear our voices. This is why worship is not done in silence. We sing, testify, speak, and pray not just for us but to glorify God who wants to hear our voices. David makes a point of God being able to hear his voice when he writes, "In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly." (Psalm 5:3)
Let God hear from you - he really likes to hear your voice!
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Jan 5 07:21:04 2012 |
Today's Commentary
For many of us, one of the great things about the holidays is the opportunity we have to be with family. Travel plans are in the scheme during the holiday season so that we may be with family and friends we don't normally see at any other time of the year. Usually there is distance between us that doesn't allow for personal contact, so the chance to be with loved ones and see them face to face is special.
Right now, there is distance between God and us. We are unable to be with God face to face because of this distance that is there not only spatially but spiritually because of sin. For us, even if the spatial distance was remedied, we cannot truly look upon God in our current state and live. God told Moses, "You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live." (Exodus 33:20) However, in the new heaven and the new earth, the distance between God and man will be removed. Men saw God's glory as a brilliant light in the Old Testament, but were unable to look upon it. Men saw God when Jesus came into the world, but his glory was hidden by his human form. In the new heaven and the new earth, the veil will be lifted and we will be able to see the glory of God. The distance between God and us will be removed and we will be able to worship God and fellowship with God forever.
Revelation 21:1-5 gives us a brief description of what this will be like: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. . .And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.' He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!' Then he said, 'Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.'" What a great day that will be - no more distance!
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Jan 4 07:10:57 2012 |
Today's Commentary
We need to keep in perspective the people God uses. Our society is so focused on celebrity status and "big names" that we are often influenced by this when we think of being used of God. However, keep in mind the Biblical examples of people used of God. He used an inarticulate shepherd to take his people out of Egyptian captivity. He used farmers and people of flocks as his prophets. He used fishermen and tax collectors as apostles. The couple chosen to be the earthly parents of Christ was a carpenter and a peasant girl.
Years ago, I heard a comedian use this punch line, "If they can make penicillin out of moldy cheese, they can sure make something out of me." This is especially true when it comes to God. God can use you. The only thing lacking is our willingness to be used of God. We need to put ourselves in a position where we can be used by God. A good priority in this New Year is to put ourselves in a position where God can use us to do something we have never done before.
Peter talks about being used of God when he writes, "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms." (I Peter 4:10) God can use you. He has shown that he can and will. Let him make the decision!
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Jan 3 07:12:09 2012 |
Today's Commentary
When I was a boy, the superintendent of the local office of the Ohio Department of Transportation lived next door to us. My folks were good friends with him and his wife. However, I remember a time when my Mom got a little irritated with him Some folks down the road from us had put in a request to have a large tile placed in the ditch than ran in front of their house so they could build up their yard. Our neighbor rejected the request. My folks could not figure out why he did this. There were others who were a bit put out with him because of his decision. Because of the public outcry, the superintendent changed his decision but said, "Folks, you'll be sorry." Sure enough, after the tile was installed and the yard built up, it caused water to drain onto the rode. During the winter, the snow thawing would send water into the road that would freeze when the temperature dropped. Even now, the road in front of that house can be a hazard at certain times of the year.
There are many times when we have to made decisions or take a stand on an issue that proves to be unpopular, but we know it is the right thing to do because of knowledge we have. Taking a stand is often difficult, but when we know we are right, that is what we need to do. This is true for many circumstances. There are times we need to confront others because of bad decisions or bad behavior. This is not easy, but it is better in the long run. You really can't fault the superintendent for changing his mind because of the weight of public opinion, but had he not done so, a problem would have been avoided.
There are just times when tough decisions need to be made. James tells us that there are times when we know what we should do but don't do the right thing is actually a sin. (James 4:17) Proverbs 1:29-31 reminds us of the consequences of making unwise decisions: "Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the LORD, since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes." Don't be afraid to make a good choice, even when it proves to be unpopular!
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Jan 2 09:34:43 2012 |
Today's Commentary
Those of us who have lived a few years on this planet can probably recall living through a shortage of something. Weather circumstances often cause shortages of certain types of food products. Weather forecasts often cause shortages of food items at markets as they are raided by people stocking up in the wake of hurricanes, snow storms, or some other type of bad weather. I recall waiting in line for lengthy periods of time through the gas shortages of the early 1970's. In 1973, a remark by Johnny Carson during his "Tonight Show" monologue prompted a run on toilet paper that led to drastic, and ultimately humorous, measures by toilet paper manufacturers. Those who lived during WWII endured shortages of many products. They can recall ration stamps that were issued to regulate the distribution of many items. Do you need new tires on your car? Forget about that - just patch up what you have as best you can. Of course, there are people all over the world who endure much more serious shortages that most of you reading this article have or will ever experience. Life for them is a daily struggle for survival as they try to find enough food to keep them and loved ones alive.
Isaiah writes about a time when we will never more have to endure a shortage of what we need. We read in Isaiah 55:1-2, "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare." God promises a time when we will dwell in abundance. He promises for us now abundant life if we trust in him. All those who follow Christ know that there will be a time when we no longer will have to endure shortages of anything as we live with him. We eagerly anticipate that time and until it comes, we continue to trust him who has promised to freely provide all things (Romans 8:32).
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Jan 1 08:06:37 2012 |
Today's Commentary
This is the time for New Year's resolutions. The change in the number of the year brings about a desire to change something in our lives, hence we have resolutions. I don't know how you feel about resolutions, and this is not an article defending them nor decrying their ineffectiveness. I am simply acknowledging the practice of making resolutions. Making resolutions is based on an important reality - there are times we all need to make changes in our lives. Those changes vary in significance, but change is necessary. Not change for change sake, but in all of our lives, there are times when we need to make a change, with the operative word here being "need."
What changes do you need to make? Do you need to make lifestyle changes to improve your health? Do you need to make diet changes because of things going on inside of you? Do you need to make changes in how you treat others? What changes do you need to make to improve your walk with the Lord? Do you need to spend more time with the Scripture? Do you need to be more active in your church? Do you need to give more?
No doubt, most of us do need to make some change in some area. Frankly, there are very few people alive who can honestly say they don't need to make a change somewhere. The only person who does not need to change is God. I Samuel 15:29 says, "He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a human being, that he should change his mind." However, we are not God, and we do need to make changes. Happy New Year!
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Dec 31 08:06:37 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I remember reading an article one time by David Branon where he wrote that what we do with the old year is more important than what we plan for the New Year. We should make the end of this year be a time of self-evaluation to see what we might have lingering in our lives that needs to be dealt with. I Corinthians 11 points out the importance of self examination. Paul writes in I Corinthians 11:28: "Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup." His advice of looking at one's self before taking communion is advice that is applicable to any time of our lives. An honest look at one's heart is helpful to correct any issues that we may be harboring.
The problem of unconfessed sin should not be ignored. Moses knew the danger of allowing sin to reside in his life. He knew that "secret sins" could cause real problems and should be confesses. Psalm 90:8 tells us: "You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence." Don't let this happen! Practice self-evaluation at all times, and use this time of year to do some serious soul searching.
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Dec 30 09:06:37 2011 |
Today's Commentary
"It was the best of times; it was the worst of times" begins one of the most widely read books of fiction in the English language, "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens. Set in the era leading up to and including the French Revolution, the book follows the lives of a number of protagonists in London and Paris through this time period. Dickens first published this work in installments that appeared in his literary periodical "All the Year Around."
The Bible contains many stories of "parallelism" of two characters, events, or places. Perhaps one of the most striking is the presentation of the lives of two mothers - Eve and Mary. Eve, as the prototypical mother, gave birth to a son and said, "With the help of the LORD I have brought forth a man ." (Genesis 4:1) Thousands of years later in response to the angelic announcement that she would have a son Mary would say, "I am the Lord's servant. . .May your word to me be fulfilled." (Luke 1:38)
In the case of the first mother, her son would fall prey to the force of sin that she had helped to unleash upon the world when he murdered his younger brother. In the case of the second mother, her Son would destroy the force of sin that held her and all mankind captive when he was killed by people that he had created. While Dickens’s novel "A Tale of Two Cities" is important because of its vast circulation, the tale of two mothers, is much more significant. There are so many comparisons - the deaths of the sons, the grief they both experience, the realization of the intervention of the Lord, and many other things. However, only one Son's death could provide benefit for others - the death of Christ. Because of his death, his burial, his resurrection, the worst of times can be the best of times for all who believe.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Dec 29 08:50:34 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Christmas is a time for unwrapping secrets. Those secrets under the tree that had been growing over the past few days are now revealed. In one sense, this keeps up the tradition of the very first Christmas. Christ was a secret that had been promised through the ages. Then, at the time appointed by God and known only to God, he was revealed to the world. For those who cared to listen, angels announced his birth, a celestial event proclaimed his presence, and when he was taken to the temple for the purification rights when he was 8 days old, he was recognized (Luke 2:22-38).
Paul speaks of the mystery of Christ and this mystery being revealed in Ephesians 1:7-10: "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ."
Since Christ is no longer a secret, we need to unwrap His message for others. We need to do all we can to reveal the news of "redemption through his blood." We should be more eager to do this than we are unwrapping the secrets that we find under our trees. His message is no secret!
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Dec 28 09:09:59 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The term "acid test" we use to talk about testing the validity of a claim is derived from the literal acid test that assayers used during the 19th century gold rush days to test material to see if it was actually gold.
There are times we may need to test something to see if it is genuine. There have been many religious groups arise that are not accurate in their teachings. "How can you tell if a group is truthful?" you may ask. The "acid test" of a group or movement is what they do with Christ. I came across this little test that can be used to determine the validity of a group. Ask these questions:
Do they believe that Jesus is the Son of God, the second member of the Trinity?
Do they believe that He came in the flesh, incarnate as Jesus of Nazareth?
Do they agree that He died for our sins and was resurrected from the dead?
Do they believe that His death provided atonement for our sins and that the only way of salvation is by grace through faith in Him?
If the score for this test is not 100%, then don't trust the group. Our orthodoxy is based upon a number of beliefs, but what we do with Christ is pre-eminent. If one's view of Christ is skewed, then there is a problem. Paul's comments in I Corinthians 1:22-24 reflects the pre-eminence of Christ, "Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God." Christ is indeed the "acid test."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Dec 27 09:12:55 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Duplicity is one trait that needs to be avoided. We hear stories that reveal this part of man's character on a daily basis. Just yesterday I read of an individual who was a manager of a Christian foundation in Washington, D.C., and was found to be a leader in an organized crime ring. Proverbs 6:12-14 says: "What are worthless and wicked people like? They are constant liars, signaling their deceit with a wink of the eye, a nudge of the foot, or the wiggle of fingers. Their perverted hearts plot evil, and they constantly stir up trouble."
We see a person who fits this description in the narratives telling of the events surrounding Christ's birth and infancy. Herod had an ulterior motive when he questioned the Magi about the birth of Christ. Matthew 2:7-8 tells us: "Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, 'Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.'" You and I both know that Herod had no more intention to worship Christ than there is a man in the moon. His intent was to see Christ dead. Duplicity is demonstrated indeed.
The problem of duplicity is all around us, and if we aren't careful, can be manifested by us as well. Avoid dishonesty and duplicity. Be determined to live a life of sincere faith in Jesus.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Dec 26 08:43:40 2011 |
Today's Commentary
What is your favorite Christmas memory? I have several. One of them has to be all the times I prepared for Christmas plays or Christmas presentations of some sort. I remember once we used candles that really weren't candles. All the boys had to wear white shirts and black slacks. All the girls had to wear white blouses and black skirts. And we had our candles. There were battery powered "sticks" with a bulb in the shape of a flame. I thought they were so cool. When you got a bunch of them together, they did put out some serious light. I suppose we did look pretty neat standing in the choir all dressed alike and holding our fake candles while singing some marvelous Christmas songs. This is one of my many Christmas memories.
Christmas memories are marvelous, and usually help us frame our concept of our celebration. However, what is important is to not try to make our current Christmas match up with our memories of Christmases past. We need to focus on what Christmas is, and not get caught up with what it was. Christmas is to be a celebration of what has been done for us, not what we did at Christmas. Christmas is a good time to reflect upon God's provision for us. Galatians 4:4-5 tells us that "when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship." Our memory of Christmas must include this provision. If not, thinking about fake candles is really not all that great.
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Dec 25 06:15:02 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I hope that you have taken the time to enjoy the Christmas videos that our webmaster, Kenny McCall, has posted during this Christmas season. If you have not, take the time to view them today. They are really marvelous. After viewing them, I must say that I continue to be drawn to "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" by Casting Crowns. There are two reasons for this: I really like the song, and I really like Casting Crowns.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote this carol. Yes, he is the same Longfellow who wrote "Hiawatha". His composition of "I Heard the Bells", as do many writings, flowed from his own personal experiences. He wrote the song on December 25, 1864, when our nation was still very much involved in the darkest experience in our history - the War Between the States. The poem came from that reality, and also the losses he had suffered during the war. He had lost his wife, Fanny, in a tragic accident not long after the war had started. She was killed in a fire at the family home. Then, in 1863, Longfellow's oldest son Charles, a lieutenant in the Army of the Potomac, was killed in battle. These experiences are perhaps most reflected in the next to the last stanza of the poem when he writes: "And in despair I bowed my head; 'There is no peace on earth,' I said; 'For hate is strong, And mocks the song of peace on earth, good-will to men!'"
However, Longfellow concludes the poem with these words: "Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: 'God is not dead; nor doth he sleep! The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail, with peace on earth, good-will to men!'" This verse reflects both the personal faith of Longfellow and the Scriptural reality that indeed the coming of the Prince of Peace will make everything right. Isaiah 9:5-7 reminds us, "Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this." Praise God for his Promise! Merry Christmas!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Dec 24 07:25:41 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I came across this the other day in my reading, "Every person faces times when things don't go the way they planned. Times when troubles come fast and furious, when no choice seems like a good choice. In times such as these, we have the example of men and women of faith who turned to God for help. God never intended for us to face difficulties in our own strength. He wants us to depend on Him."
I know a couple who could identify with this - Mary and Joseph. They had the normal aspirations of any young couple when they became betrothed. However, during the betrothal period, their lives took a turn that matched the description given above. They faced a time when things didn't go the way they planned. Perhaps they felt as if troubles were coming fast and furious with the unexpected pregnancy. Of course, God intervened at this point to explain what was taking place. However, other situations arose that forced them to continue to trust God. Mary would have to travel despite her advanced pregnancy. And then, instead of finding a nice place to bring their child into the world, they had to settle for a stable.
Even after the birth, their plans continued to take an unprecedented path. The paranoia of a mad king caused them to travel far from their home. Mary continued along the path of faith she had declared earlier when she said, "I am the Lord’s servant,.. May your word to me be fulfilled." (Luke 1:38) Joseph continued along the path that he had declared earlier when "he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife." (Matthew 1:24) They declared their dependence upon God and their reliance on his strength. So should we.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Dec 23 07:00:35 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The alarm clock goes off, we jump out of bed. Breakfast? Hmm...maybe tomorrow. Got to get the kids to school. Got to get to the office. Got to get that proposal done. As someone once said "That is why they call it the human race." Sometimes we just need to sit back and get some perspective. We need to look honestly at what we are doing and ask ourselves, "Can I really survive if I keep going at this pace?"
We can really get caught up in this race at this time of year. This is a time we have set aside to honor the birth of Christ. However, we get so caught up in the race to do things we associate with what we call "celebration" that we fail to stop and get some perspective on why we are celebrating. God set aside a time in his planning for people to stop the race and get some perspective. This was the Sabbath. As New Testament Christians, we may argue about how the Law has given way to Grace, and we don't need to think about the Sabbath. Well, this is correct in one sense. Observing the Sabbath as we see it given in the Law is not necessary. However, the idea of Sabbath needs to be preserved by people of Grace.
Poh Fang cites a Bible teacher: "Sabbath is the time set aside to do nothing so that we can receive everything, to set aside our anxious attempts to make ourselves useful, to set aside our tense restlessness, to set aside our media-saturated boredom. Sabbath is the time to receive silence and let it deepen into gratitude, to receive quiet into which forgotten faces and voices unobtrusively make themselves present, to receive the days of the just completed week and absorb the wonder and miracle still reverberating from each one, to receive our Lord’s amazing grace."
Doing this at all times is so important. People of grace should still "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." (Exodus 20:8) Doing this during the time we have set aside to observe the Savior's birth is especially important. Stop the Race - observe the Rest.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Dec 22 07:36:28 2011 |
Today's Commentary
An aspect of Christ's ministry that we usually focus more upon during the Lenten season rather than the Advent season is his suffering. We don't normally like to associate suffering with the story of the baby in the manger and the shepherds and the wise men. Yet, there are both implied and direct reminders of suffering in many aspects of the Nativity story.
When you think of what his parents must have gone through just before he was born, you get the idea of suffering. As a man I can't speak to this directly, but I know there are many women reading this who can identify with the discomfort Mary must have endured making an 80 mile journey during the latter part of her pregnancy. Don't forget she didn't make the journey in a car. The rude surroundings at Christ's birth speak to suffering. Many of the elements of the magi's visit speak to suffering. The long journey of the Magi helps focus on suffering as there would have been expense, discomfort, and hazards to face along the way. The gift of myrrh, a substance often associated with death as it was used in burial preparation, brings in the element of suffering. Of course, the cruel order of Herod leading to the escape of the family to Egypt as many children lost their lives was an event that created suffering that was much more than implied (Matthew 2:13-19).
We sometimes use the term Suffering Servant when referring to Christ. This name comes primarily from the prophecies of Isaiah about his suffering and death. Isaiah 53:3 says: "He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain." While we usually associate this with our Easter observance, it is something we should also include in our Christmas celebration. We should never forget that this is why Christ came. Mark 10:45 reminds us that "the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Dec 21 06:34:31 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Affirmation is a powerful force in life. Affirmation is a powerful force in the church. We long to be affirmed for who we are and what we are doing. We have a desire to hear the words, "Good job." John affirmed Gaius for how he was conducting his life. He wrote: "It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it." (I John 3)
As we think of those who were involved in the events surrounding the birth of Christ, we see God's affirmation. Elizabeth and John were affirmed through an angel's message and the promise of a child. Certainly God affirmed Joseph and Mary when he chose them to be the earthly parents of a Heavenly Child. The shepherds were affirmed through the presence of the angels and the invitation to visit Jesus the infant. The magi were affirmed through the appearance of a star that led them to Jesus the child.
God will affirm you as you live a life that is pleasing to him. God calls us to be people of affirmation. Who do you need to affirm today?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Dec 20 07:28:34 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The art, music, pageantry, decorations, and celebrations at this time of the year all focus on one thing - the baby in the manger. Now, the Bible tells us that when Christ was born, his first earthly bed was indeed a structure that was used for feeding animals - a manger. However, we need to remember that the baby in the manger grew up, and is still alive today seated at the right hand of God the Father (Luke 22:69). We need to worship and bow down not before a baby in the manger, but the living, vital, Son of God - Jesus our Savior. And we need to do that more than just one day a year. It does little good to only "bring out" Jesus one day a year and "pay him respect." Our worship needs to occur every day. My grandfather would remind me of this frequently when I was a boy. Every time I would help him feed the cattle, he would remind me that Jesus was born in a barn and laid in a manger. He would also remind me that Jesus grew up and died for me.
The people of Israel were guilty of putting God on a shelf and forgetting about him. I Samuel 7 records the sad tale of how the Ark of the Covenant, the very symbol of God's presence, had been taken and languished in a foreign city for over 20 years: "So the men of Kiriath Jearim came and took up the ark of the LORD. They brought it to Abinadab’s house on the hill and consecrated Eleazar his son to guard the ark of the LORD. The ark remained at Kiriath Jearim a long time—twenty years in all."
Don't be guilty of only acknowledging Christ one day a year, and don't be guilty of acknowledging only the baby. Christ is all grown up now, he died for you, and, frankly, a one day a year nod towards him won't do you a bit of good.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Dec 19 07:33:47 2011 |
Today's Commentary
It is usually wise to have a Plan B. How many times have you had your original plans not work out? How many times have you had to go a different direction because your original thoughts about how to accomplish something just weren't going to become reality? It really is good to have a plan B and maybe even have it in mind ahead of time as you accept the fact that what you actually would like to see happen just isn't going to work.
This happened this year when we decorated the church for Christmas. We knew decorating the church would be different as we have remodeled the front of the sanctuary. Where should we put the Chrismon tree? Our plan A was on the stage in one corner. As we were decorating, we saw this wouldn't work. Someone suggested moving the organ and putting the tree on the front of stage. Now, I really didn't like this "plan B" at first, but realized it probably would be better. Those of you who have seen the church would probably say, "Why did you even consider putting it anywhere else?"
Paul also had this experience. Not decorating a tree of course, but something a little more significant. He mentioned to the folks at Rome that he had planned many times to visit them, but wasn't able to do so. Romans 1:13 tells us: "I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles." Instead of visiting them, he wrote them. Of course, what he wrote was what we have in our Bible - the epistle to the Romans. If plan A had worked out, what might have happened to Romans?
Having a plan B is a good idea. Many times, plan B turns out to be superior to plan A. And something else to consider is that often our Plan B is God's Plan A.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Dec 18 06:02:13 2011 |
Today's Commentary
After Jesus entered Jerusalem a few days before his crucifixion and after he cleared the temple for a second time (Luke 19:45), the Jewish leaders sought to kill Jesus. However, they could not find a way to do so because the people "hung on his words" (Luke 19:48). Indeed, the words of Christ have strength and power. At one point in his ministry, the leaders had sent the temple guards to arrest him. Their attempt failed. When asked by the angry leaders why they had not arrested Jesus, the guards said, "No one ever spoke the way this man does (John 7:46)."
Isn't that true? No one has ever spoken the way Jesus did and still does. His words ring with authenticity, strength, and comfort. "Let not your hearts be troubled" he says in John 14:1. "Truly, truly I say to you, he who believes in me has everlasting life" is his promise found in John 6:47. "Surely, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" he assures us in Matthew 28:20. Indeed, no one ever spoke words such as these. No one else ever could, and no one else ever can. Only in Jesus do we find these statements of hope and promise.
As we celebrate his birth, spend some time reading, thinking about, and following his words. God said to the disciples at Christ's transfiguration, "This is my beloved Son, listen to him." (Matthew 17:5) Are you listening to Jesus?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Dec 17 06:05:25 2011 |
Today's Commentary
We sing the song "Silent Night, Holy Night" at this time of year. I wrote about this song just a few days ago. It is really a beautiful tribute to Christ's birth and a beautiful reminder of what Christ did in coming into the world. The song talks about some of the activity that was going on at the time of Christ's birth. A marvelous song, but is it accurate?
I would imagine the night of Christ's birth was not all that silent. Think of all the sound that must have been going on within earshot of the place of Christ's birth. There were the sounds of the animals. Bethlehem would have been crowded with people, and I imagine they were noisy. They were no doubt oblivious to the special birth that had taken place.
Aside from the usual noise, God made some noise. Think of the angel chorus. They were not silent about the birth of Christ. The shepherds were not silent after their visit with the Christ child. Rather, "When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child." (Luke 2:17)
Now, this does diminish the power and beauty of the song, but it really wasn't a "silent night" when Christ was born. Neither should we remain silent about him. "Silent Night" may be a beautiful song to sing at Christmas, but don't let it influence you when it comes to talking about what took place.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Dec 16 06:34:11 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Have you encountered anyone during this Christmas season that say, "I just can't seem to get into the Christmas spirit?" Maybe you’ve even said this yourself! What they are saying is they just don't seem to have the "feeling" they should about the Christmas celebration. Of course, Christmas doesn't rely upon our feelings. The fact is that Christ came into the world. Granted we are probably off on the date we use for our celebration, but he did come to live with us. Our "Christmas spirit" should be based upon the fact of God's gift, not our feelings that can be so fickle.
Relying on feelings is a tenuous endeavor. We do this not only at Christmas, but at many other times as well. We make feelings the predominant barometer of our relationship with the Lord, and this is just not wise. Our relationship with God is based upon the fact of Christ's provision for us and our acceptance of his provision. We sometimes feel that our fellowship is not what it should be because we don't "feel" spiritual.
John describes the basis for fellowship in his first epistle. Christ's incarnation is the basis for our fellowship. Read what John said: "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ." (1:1-3) Don't let your feelings deceive you and diminish your celebration!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Dec 15 06:49:39 2011 |
Today's Commentary
In Revelation 22:12 we read: "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End." Christ here declares not only who he is, he tells what he will do. We celebrate his coming into the world at Christmas, and he declares that he will come again. As he was the beginning of all things, he will bring an end to how things currently are and will be the beginning of how things will be throughout all eternity.
When Christ declares that he is the Alpha and the Omega, he declares that he is God. God uses this statement to identify himself earlier in Revelation (1:8 and 21:6). We also read God's statement about his identity and person in Isaiah 44:6: "I am the first and the last. . ." The One we worship and adore is the eternal God and is indeed worthy of our adoration and worship. He is very God of very God; the Beginning and the End; the One who is, and was, and is to come. Praise Him with all your might!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Dec 14 06:55:02 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I really miss trees at my grandpa and grandma's house. Of course, it has been almost 40 years since our last tree there. My grandparents have been with the Lord for this amount of time, and the house is now the possession of another family. The trees at their house were really special. They weren't trees from a Christmas tree lot or a farm; they were trees that my grandpa had cut down himself from the woods he owned. Now, these trees had not been "groomed" as they were growing, so they were not perfectly shaped when he first cut them. Often they were mishap hen, gnarled, crooked, and really didn't look anything like a Christmas tree. But after my grandpa would cut them, he would begin to work on them. He would prune, snip, and even pull up branches with twine, to shape the wild pine into a Christmas tree. Then, he would turn it over to Mom who would finish it off with decorations. When my brothers and I grew older, we were even allowed to help with the decorations. Upon completion, the tree always stood in the corner of my grandparents' living room as a beautiful symbol of Christmas! What a marvelous transformation!
God does this with our lives. When we come to him in faith, he takes our misshapen, gnarled, crooked, and sinful lives and transforms them into something beautiful. Philippians 1:6 tells us about the work that he is doing in us: "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." After his supernatural work on the inside, he puts us in the care of his family, the church, and they continue to adorn us with lights of truth (Ephesians 4:15), ornaments of hope (Romans 5:4), and garland of love (I Peter 4:8). We become something really special when we were something really plain.
I really miss my grandparents' trees. But what God is doing with me right now is really marvelous. If you haven't allowed him to change your heart, do it today and experience the transformation.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Dec 13 06:45:32 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Often we struggle with how to apply a scripture to our lives. Often we struggle with the meaning of a particular verse, especially when it comes to applying it practically. What can often help in this process is simply writing things down. When you are wondering how to apply scripture to your life situation, look for scripture that gives help for the situation. Then, write the scripture down. When you have done this, begin to write down questions about the scripture. Break the passage down phrase by phrase and ask questions. For example, Proverbs 3:8-9 says, "Trust in the Lord with all you heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths." After writing down "Trust in the Lord with all your heart" you could write down questions such as "What does trusting in the Lord with your entire heart look like?"; "Am I trusting in the Lord with all of my heart?" and so on.
Many times in Deuteronomy we find the Lord telling the people to "write this down." In Deuteronomy 27:8, God says: "And you shall write very clearly all the words of this law on these stones you have set up." He did so for a reason. God wanted the people to understand what he had said, and he wanted them to remember what he had said. When it comes to our understanding and application of scripture in our lives, a helpful exercise is to "write this down."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Dec 12 07:23:31 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Most of you know the story behind the beautiful Charismas carol, Silent Night. Because of a broken church organ, Franz Gruber needed to compose some music for guitar to accompany a poem that had been written by Josef Mohr. A traveling band of musicians were in need of some music for their show. After reading the poem, Gruber came up with the music, and a wonderful Christmas song was born.
Something I've never really thought about with regard to this story is the pursuit of an alternative when the original plan was not going to work. Silent Night is a melodic presentation of the coming of the Son of God into the world. When we hear and sing this song, we can be reminded not only of this, but we can also be reminded of what we can do when circumstances arise that cause us to change our original plans. Basically, we have Silent Night because of a broken organ. What is your response when your "organ breaks?"
God is good at helping us when we need an alternative. He is the master of turning bad circumstances into good things. Think about what Joseph said to his brothers in Genesis 50:20, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." He said this in response to their fears about their treatment of him, and what happened in his life. Joseph faced his "broken organ" with faith, courage, and creativity. As a result, good things happened. As you sing Silent Night this year, remember this lesson.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Dec 11 06:06:25 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Jesus was on the road to Jericho, just days before he would enter Jerusalem for the final time. He had an encounter with a blind man. We read of this in Mark 10:46-52: "Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means 'son of Timaeus'), was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, 'Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!' Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, 'Son of David, have mercy on me!' Jesus stopped and said, 'all him.' So they called to the blind man, 'Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.' Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus. 'What do you want me to do for you?' Jesus asked him. The blind man said, 'Rabbi, I want to see.' 'Go,' said Jesus, 'your faith has healed you.' Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road."
Cloaked within the obvious elements of this story - the question Jesus asked, the answer the beggar gave, and the response of the beggar after he was healed - is something not so obvious. Note the change in the address the beggar used. First, he called Jesus by his name, and called him "Son of David." Then, when Christ answers, he responds by getting physically, spiritually, and emotionally nearer the Savior. This is inferred in from the term he uses to address Jesus after Christ's question, "Rabbi." The use of this term implied that he wanted a relationship with him. He wanted to not only get closer to Christ physically so he could be healed, but he wanted to show his trust and faith in him.
We should have the same desire. Christ has called out to us through the cross. Our response should be one indicating our desire to develop a relationship with him and to show we trust him and have faith in him. Call to the "Rabbi" today to show your desire to know him more.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Dec 10 07:31:46 2011 |
Today's Commentary
2011 has been a chaotic year. We have seen devastation from natural disasters such as the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. We are involved in wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and other areas of the globe. Economic distress and unemployment is rampant both in the United States and globally. Our nation and many nations around the world are facing a debt crisis.
As we come to the close of a year, it is helpful to remember that God is still in control. It is comforting to know that we have the Prince of Peace who is there for us and who can provide peace for us and a calmness of spirit as we think about his person and anticipate his return. The Hebrew word for peace is "shalom." This word refers to more than just a peace from conflict, it speaks to harmony and goodwill in relations, freedom from anxiety, and a fullness of well-being. It comes from a root word that means "whole" or "complete."
When the Prince of Peace came the first time, he provided a way for us to be whole with God. His sacrifice brings reconciliation for all those who believe in him. Paul writes, "But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation." (Colossians 1:20) This is the peace we can experience now. When he comes again, he will restore peace to all of creation. Isaiah 2:4 tells us, "He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation,
nor will they train for war anymore."
Keep your eyes on the Prince of Peace, not the chaos of the world. When you do, you will indeed experience true "shalom."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Dec 9 07:06:31 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I just read a story about a practice of a medical school in Taiwan. In order that prospective doctors have a greater insight into death and a greater appreciation for life, they are buried alive for ten minutes. Yeesh - talking about an exercise to produce empathy.
We need to appreciate the reality that we have been "buried" alive. When we accept Christ, Paul tells us that "we were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." (Romans 6:4) What this means is that although we will not be able to live a perfect life as a follower of Christ, we can have a different attitude and outlook towards sin. A true believer will have a desire to avoid and overcome sin. If we don't have this desire, then we need to do some serious evaluation to determine is we truly have been "buried with him." John tells us that "No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God." (I John 3:9)
Live as if we have been buried alive. How does that statement grab you? If you spend some time with the passages listed above, you will gain an appreciation for this idea.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Dec 8 07:05:05 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Dr. Mark Bailey writes: "There is a cemetery in London called Bunhill Fields. A number of famous people are buried there—John Bunyan, author of Pilgrim's Progress; Isaac Watts, the great hymnwriter; and Daniel Defoe, the author of Robinson Crusoe. Opposite the graveyard is the chapel of John Wesley and a monument erected to him. On the same property is John Wesley's house, where on March 2, 1791, Wesley, lifting a feeble arm in as show of triumph, opened his eyes and exclaimed for the very last time, upon his deathbed, these words: 'The best of all is this: God is with us.' God has promised to be with us in life, death, and for all eternity."
'
This is a point of emphasis at this time of year. We are celebrating the fact that God came to be with us. This is even reflected in one of his names. Matthew writes, "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means 'God with us')." (Matthew 1:23) This statement of God’s promise found in the opening chapter of Matthew is echoed in the declaration of Jesus in the closing words of the book, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (28:20) When Christ came into the world, he came for us. Let’s make sure we live for him.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Dec 7 06:34:23 2011 |
Today's Commentary
"DECEMBER 7, 1941- a date which will live in infamy- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan." These were the words of President Franklin Roosevelt to a stunned nation after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by 350 Japanese Imperial aircraft. Many alive still remember that incident. I don't, nor was I even alive at the time. However, my life was affected by these events as it changed the lives of the man and the woman who would become my parents. Events have consequences, and events of this magnitude have consequences that are far-reaching. This is the 70th anniversary of the attack, and we still experience the consequences because of what this action caused.
One of the first things we need to learn in life is that actions do have consequences. Developing an understanding of cause and effect is important. Now, not every action will be a world changer in the way that Pearl Harbor was, but our activity does change things. This is why taking time to think about our actions and about possible consequences is always a good thing.
God advised those who were going to serve as judges in the land of Israel: "He told them, 'Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for mere mortals but for the LORD, who is with you whenever you give a verdict.'" (II Chronicles 19:6) God wanted them to use discernment because their decisions would affect lives. Regardless of the reality that we are not a judge, we still make decisions that affect others. Consider carefully your decisions knowing that your actions are a cause that will have an effect.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Dec 6 07:11:35 2011 |
Today's Commentary
St. Nicholas died on this day (December 6) in 343 A.D. During his life, Nicholas had started the practice of being generous to the poor. He even threw some money through the window of the house of a man who was on the verge of losing his daughters into slavery because of debts. Nicholas became bishop of Myra, was imprisoned by Diocletian, freed by Constantine, was part of the Council of Nicea that formulated the Nicene Creed, and preached against the fertility goddess Diana in Ephesus.
In 1087, because of the fear of invading Muslims desecrating his grave, his bones were taken to Italy. As a result, the traditions that had come to be associated with Nicholas were spread to Europe. In the seventeenth century, the Dutch brought the stories of Saint Nicholas to New Amsterdam, which became New York. The Dutch called him "Sinter Klaas" - Santa Claus. The rest, as they say, is history.
When you think of the stories and traditions associated with Santa Claus, remember their origin. Remember the real Santa Claus was a man of faith who put ideals into action. He lived out the principle of James 2:18: "But someone will say, 'You have faith; I have deeds.' Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds." Let's make sure we make this a part of our celebration of Christmas.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Dec 5 06:53:10 2011 |
Today's Commentary
In 1959, the famed football coach Vince Lombardi addressed his team at the start of their preparation for the upcoming season. With a football in hand, he looked at the group and said, "Gentleman, this is a football." He then proceeded to describe the football in detail. The point was clear; we are going to concentrate on the basics.
Every now and then, followers of Christ need to say to themselves, or have someone say to them, "People, this is the Bible." We need to concentrate on the basics. We need to remind ourselves of what is important and what we should be focusing upon in our lives to keep us grounded in the faith and growing in our relationship with Christ.
Paul never forgot this. When he makes the statement found in Philippians 3;10, "I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death," it almost sounds as if he is wanting to remind himself and his readers of the importance of focusing upon the basics in the Christian life. Failure to do so can create a "drift" where we move away from what is important and critical for our growth in the Lord. Don't forget the basics in your life with the Lord!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Dec 4 06:11:51 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I know your have heard the saying "birds of a feather flock together." That is true on so many levels, and is a statement that can be made about us humans. Now, there is nothing wrong with this. It is a trait that is within us and is a natural tendency. However, if this tendency causes us to act in unkind, unloving ways towards others, then we are wrong. Prejudice towards others for any reason simply goes against the grain of the Christian message.
James tells us we should not discriminate against the poor. We read in James 2:1-4: "My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, 'Here’s a good seat for you,' but say to the poor man, 'You stand there' or 'Sit on the floor by my feet,' have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?"
It is wrong to discriminate against someone else for any reason - wealth, creed, race, age or national origin. Christ came into the world to bring hope to all people. We are to love our neighbor regardless who our neighbor might be. If we don't get this message out of our celebration of Christ’s coming, then we have really missed the boat.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Dec 3 07:01:12 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Haddon Robinson tells the story of a young boy growing up during the depression who wanted desperately to go see the circus that was coming to town. Admission was $1, and the father of the little boy told him he could not spare this for him. So, the boy began to work feverishly to earn the price of admission. He was successful in his effort.
When the circus arrived, the little boy went to town and bought a ticket from the salesman. Then, he found a place alongside the street where the circus parade would pass. When the parade started, the little boy pressed his ticket into the hand of a clown who passed by. Then he cheered and whistled as he watched the performers and the animals pass by.
When the parade was finished, he ran home and excitedly told his father what he had seen and heard. The father listened with a smile, then told him at the end of his story, "Son, I don't know how to say this, but what you saw was only the parade. You missed the circus."
We have this happening right now. So many people are caught up in the "parade" of Christmas and are in danger of missing the real story. Don't be one of these people. There is so much more to the truth of Christmas than the tinsel and gifts and the parties. Be like the shepherds who took it all in and rejoiced in what they saw: "The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told." (Luke 2:20)
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Dec 2 07:01:12 2011 |
Today's Commentary
You have probably heard that the Mayans predicted the world will end in 2012. A movie has already been made based on this apocalyptic prediction. According to some, an inscription on a 1,300 year-old Mayan tablet predicts the return of the mysterious god Bolon Yokte at the end of a 13th period of 400 years, the equivalent of December 21, 2012. However, a new study of the tablet conducted by German expert Sven Gronemeyer states that initial translations are not accurate. According to Gronomeyer, the prediction was for a transition in the age, not the end of the world. So, what is it? Is it the end of the world or just a transition from one age to another?
Well, there really is no way to know for sure, and the idea that we can actually know the date of the "end of the world" is fallacious. For one thing, there are some things that will need to occur before the "end of the world". The rapture, the period of tribulation, the millennial reign, all will occur before the "end of the world." So, it would seem safe to say that the Mayan prediction of whatever is not going to occur next year. Another more important consideration is the fact that Jesus himself said, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour." (Matthew 25:30) If we can't know about the event that starts "end time" happenings, we cannot know the date of the end of the world.
There is a fascination with future things. Being fascinated with future things is not a bad thing, but we must keep our wits about us when we study prophecy. The interest in the Mayan prediction led some to go beyond a biblical study, or even ascientific study. God has a plan laid out, we know this for sure. We need to refer to what he has revealed to us and not go off on pointless chases. The Bible, not the Mayans, needs to be our guide.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Dec 1 07:13:48 2011 |
Today's Commentary
A copy of the first Action Comics comic book which featured the introduction of Superman recently sold at auction for $2.16 million dollars. The scarcity of the book makes it so valuable. There are only 100 of these still in existence, and only a handful are in good condition. Scarcity of an item is what often sets the value. Diamonds, gold, silver, and other "precious" metals and gems are valuable because of limited availability. This is the case with many commodities.
However, I can think of something that is extremely valuable and is not in short supply - the grace of God that provides for us a hope of eternal life. You could not even begin to estimate what God's grace is worth. I Timothy 6:17 tells us something about what is valuable and what our perspective should be regarding value: "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment."
God provides for us abundantly. God's grace is so very valuable, but it certainly is not in short supply. Romans 5:17 says it this way: "For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!" God's invaluable grace is never in short supply.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Nov 30 06:45:42 2011 |
Today's Commentary
When I was a teenager, I remember hearing from youth leaders, camp directors, and pastors: "Don't do anything that will embarrass you when Christ comes back!" As a pastor, I know I don't say that much and I don't hear it being said a lot now. I don't really know why because this statement is based on a biblical truth. I John 2:28 says: "And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming."
David Branon suggests two reasons why we may not be hearing this as much as we once did. First, we may not believe that he could be coming back at any time. That is a big mistake. He could appear before we take our next breath, and we should live as if he will. A second reason why we don't hear this as much as we once did is that we really aren't concerned about living a godly life. Now this is a scary thought, and we need to examine our hearts to make sure this isn't true.
Obviously, Christ knows how we are living and what we are doing at anytime. He doesn't need to come back to "catch us in the act." We need to guide our lives with this truth in mind. And we should also live expectantly. Christ himself said, "You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him." (Luke 12:40)
Live every moment as if you expect him back. Doing so can help you be confident that you won't be ashamed when he returns.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Nov 29 07:00:02 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Paul Meier wrote a book with a somewhat controversial title, "Don't Let the Jerks Get the Best of You." Few disputed the content of the book that intended to give advice for dealing with difficult people. However, there was some criticism about the title. Many did not like his use of the term "jerks." Now, I don't agree with the use of the term either. However, Dr. Meier did hit the nail on the head regarding the fact that we encounter difficult people. In actuality, we can all be difficult at times.
Christ dealt with a number of people who proved to be difficult - the Pharisees, the Sadducees, the temple priests, and even his own disciples at times.. As we encounter difficulties with others, we need to emulate the example of Christ who responded with grace, compassion, and patience. If the situation warranted, he was stern in his response, but he was always in control, and he never let these encounters discourage him from doing what he needed to do. We should look at this example to keep ourselves from getting discouraged and sometimes making unwise decisions in the wake of a negative interaction. It also helps to remember that we can be difficult as well. We live in an imperfect world with imperfect people. Don't get discouraged - draw strength from the example of Christ when you face a time of challenge.
God knew Joshua would face times that would be challenging, including criticism from and confrontations with his own people. God told Joshua, "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9) Keep this in mind as struggles caused by others arise.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Nov 28 07:12:17 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Dennis Bratcher writes, "Advent is marked by a spirit of expectation, of anticipation, of preparation, of longing. There is a yearning for deliverance from the evils of the world, first expressed by Israelite slaves in Egypt as they cried out from their bitter oppression. It is the cry of those who have experienced the tyranny of injustice in a world under the curse of sin, and yet who have hope of deliverance by a God who has heard the cries of oppressed slaves and brought deliverance!"
"It is that hope, however faint at times, and that God, however distant He sometimes seems, which brings to the world the anticipation of a King who will rule with truth and justice and righteousness over His people and in His creation. It is that hope that once anticipated, and now anticipates anew, the reign of an Anointed One, a Messiah, who will bring peace and justice and righteousness to the world."
For what do you hope? Sometimes we hope for a new car, a new job, a new relationship, or something else along these lines. One thing we should hope for is a deeper relationship with our Lord. This can become a reality when we arrange the pattern of our lives in such a way so that we are drawing closer to him. We read the words of David in Psalm 84:3, "My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God." David had a strong desire to be with the Lord and to learn of him. This Advent season, let's make this one thing for which we hope.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Nov 27 06:14:16 2011 |
Today's Commentary
What a marvelous day it is! This is the first Sunday of Advent. Advent is the period of time the Church has set aside to focus upon the coming of Christ. The Christian Resource Institute writes, "The word Advent means 'coming' or 'arrival.' The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. Thus, Advent is far more than simply marking a 2,000 year old event in history. It is celebrating a truth about God, the revelation of God in Christ whereby all of creation might be reconciled to God. That is a process in which we now participate, and the consummation of which we anticipate. Scripture reading for Advent will reflect this emphasis on the Second Advent, including themes of accountability for faithfulness at His coming, judgment on sin, and the hope of eternal life."
As we enter into this time of year, let's use the time to remember what Christ's coming into the world means to us. Christ came to bring hope and to provide a way of life to those who were hopeless and lifeless. Let's renew our commitment to him and our service to him. Let's rejoice in his provision and his promise. Let us echo the words of Mary that she uttered when she learned of God's choice of her, "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior." (Luke 1:46-47) Let us rejoice in Him this season of Advent!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Nov 26 07:36:27 2011 |
Today's Commentary
William Federer wrote an interesting "American Minute" article that was posted on Thanksgiving Day. In this article, Federer muses, "What if the Pilgrims had taken part in the 'Occupy Wall Street' movement we have today?" According to Federer, they actually did, in a certain way, as the experiment was an abject failure. The idea was to abolish all private property and share wealth equally. An agreement was reached by the colonists to practice this principle for seven years. The idea was to offer a fair start to everyone. But, the project failed, and the colony abandoned the idea of trying to follow "the Platonic principles" of the sharing of wealth. Such principles, by the way, are the seminal idea behind Marx's economic theories. You know where his theories led.
The sharing of wealth is a good idea, actually a great idea, but the abandoning the principles of mutual accountability and individual progress have proven to not be such a good idea. When the Pilgrims did abandon their idea of "communism," the colony began to thrive as striving to improve one's lot provided an impetus for industry. As individuals gained, they did indeed share what their gain with others. Allowing individuality it seems actually improved profit sharing, not destroyed it.
When the Pilgrims applied these principles, they thrived and had much to share. We then see them practicing the principles found in Acts 2 of having "everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need." Let’s make sure we practice these principles today. Let's do it the right way so that we can see our "colony" thrive.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Nov 25 07:31:53 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Today is Black Friday. Doesn't that sound ominous? Although the origin of this term is the "traditional" opening to the 2011 Christmas shopping season. I am sure that Christ is pleased that his coming into the world provides an opportunity for retailers to make money. Lest you miss the sarcasm of this statement, my tongue was almost popping through my cheek as I wrote those words. I read an article just this morning entitled "Five reasons to skip Black Friday." In reality, you only need one.
Whenever I hear the term Black Friday, I cannot help but think of the story of Christ clearing the temple and his declaration, "'Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!' His disciples remembered that it is written: 'Zeal for your house will consume me.'" (John 2:16) Now, I know that the timing of Christmas is an invention of man, but the fact of Christmas is not. And it certainly was not intended to be a time for the improvement of sales.
Watch how you celebrate Christmas. Be careful lest you allow Black Friday to be as ominous for you as it sounds.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Nov 24 07:58:32 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Today is a day we have set aside to give thanks. I would imagine most of you know the historical background for today. Of course, giving thanks certainly transcends the experience of the Pilgrims in their new home. For followers of Christ, giving thanks should be as natural as breathing. Paul writes in Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Giving thanks helps us to keep our grip. We face times of sadness, loss, pain, and other problems. When we purpose to give thanks we find a source of strength and encouragement that helps us with our struggle. In his book "365 Thank Yous", John Kralik writes how intentional thankfulness helped him gain control of his life after many factors were causing a real tailspin. "The exercise (giving thanks) took the focus off of me and my problems and put it on the blessings in my life and the things that people were doing for me," Kralik writes.
Giving thanks helps us to keep on grappling. An attitude of thankfulness helps us to focus on our responsibilities and follow paths that are productive. Finally, giving thanks helps us to keep from griping. We can become negative in our outlook. We can be disenchanted with others and with situations. Thankfulness helps us avoid becoming a grouch. Be thankful - and reap the benefits.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Nov 23 07:34:24 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Many of you may remember the news that broke in November of 2010 about the huge cheating scandal that occurred at the University of Central Florida. Professor Richard Quinn, suspicious of higher than usual grades on a midterm, discovered that hundreds of students in a business class had cheated. He issued an ultimatum: come clean, take a four-hour class in ethics, your midterm grade will be thrown out, and there will be no record of your cheating. More than 200 students came forward.
According to an ABC report, more than 40% of college students cheat at one time or another. Many are surprised by that. Perhaps they shouldn't be. Cheating is in the nature of man. The Bible makes it plain that we are sinners by birth, not by choice. Romans 3:23 declares that "all have sinned and come short of the righteousness of God." This is why we need God's righteousness.
Even after accepting the righteousness of God, we must remember our propensity to sin, our proclivity to "cheat." God catches his followers cheating many times. You can read about cheaters in passages such as Malachi 3 where God confronts the people about their cheating in their sacrifices. How about Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5? If you are not familiar with the story, I encourage you to read it. They had absolutely no reason to cheat in the way they did, but their inner desire drove them to an act for which they paid dearly.
Don't try to cheat God with your life! You will not get away with it! God will open up the windows of heaven and bless you abundantly when you repent of your sin and live for him! And no ethics class is required!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Nov 22 08:00:46 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Envy is a powerful force, and it can be a destructive force. We look at what others have, what others can do, what others are, and wish we could be them. That is not a good thing. "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones" we read in Proverbs 14:30. James 3:16 warns, "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
When we are envious, we have a warped perspective of ourselves, and we don't look at others in a good light. This is why God warns us against "The Green Giant." We need to be content with who we are, with our talents, with our abilities, and be happy for others and what they can contribute to the body of Christ. This will result in a more peaceful life, and put us in a place where God wants us. Don't envy!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Nov 21 07:22:20 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Albert Lee writes about a teen-aged boy who refused to quit playing his Nintendo Gameboy in class. The teacher called in the principal who was unable to convince the young man to turn off the game. A school security officer failed in his attempt and was kicked and punched by the boy. Finally, police were called. The student became even more belligerent and actually attacked the police when they would not stop trying to talk him away from the Gameboy. After biting an officer, a Tazer was used to subdue the boy, and legal action was pursued.
Why can we be so obstinate? Pharaoh is a good example of how stiff-necked we can be. He began to relent only after several plagues. The Israelites also displayed stubbornness in their interaction with God. God tells us to "encourage one another daily, as long as it is called 'Today,' so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end. As has just been said: 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.' Who were they who heard and rebelled? Were they not all those Moses led out of Egypt? And with whom was he angry for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies perished in the wilderness?"
Don't be a hardhead! Listen to God and follow his leadership. This is indeed a better way.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Nov 20 06:32:10 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Artists amaze me in the way they can take lifeless materials and "create" life. They know just how to mix colors to give realistic effects. They know techniques that give a 3D effect on a 2D canvas. They can convey warm emotions through the use of materials that are actually lifeless and, in one sense, cold. Looking at the finished work of an accomplished painter is a moving experience, even though the object at which you are looking is stationary.
What amazes me even more is what God can do with that which is lifeless. Ephesians 2:1-5 tells us about his creative activity: "As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved."
We need to be thankful that we have been made alive with Christ. If not, we would be just a mass of stuff with no future. Even as an artist can turn benign materials into a timeless masterpiece, God can turn hopeless individuals into people with a very bright future with him.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Nov 19 08:59:44 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The early disciples lived life with the awareness that they could change the world through their message of the purpose of God. They realized the message they had could make a real difference in the lives of people. As a result, Paul and his friends received a criticism that was actually a compliment from the people in Ephesus. They said, "These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here (Acts 17:6)." The King James Version translates this, "they have turned the world upside down."
What could happen if we lived with this same kind of purpose and passion? What would happen if we lived life with the awareness that we could change the world? We need to live with the awareness that every person with whom we come in contact is valuable to God. We need to live with the awareness that our interaction with others has the potential of revealing God to them as we live for Him.
Let's "turn the world upside down." Let's live with the awareness that the message we have can bring about real change.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Nov 18 07:50:16 2011 |
Today's Commentary
One of my greatest struggles is popping off before I put thought into my words. "Cooler heads prevail" is a good piece of advice for me and for many of us. We become frustrated with situations, we become angry during arguments, or we don't like what we see as a perceived injustice and we confront the alleged perpetrator of the injustice in a less than diplomatic way - these are all situations that we should work to control.
Proverbs 17:27 says, "He who has knowledge spares his words." We need to work to know our "danger signals," and when we see them arise, develop a plan of action to thwart what would be our usual way of reacting. Let God take over your brain for awhile and allow him to intervene. This is certainly a more productive means of handling times when the temperature rises. As ESPN commentator Stan Verrett would say, "Cool is the Rule."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Nov 17 08:59:29 2011 |
Today's Commentary
: Many things help form a bond between individuals - shared experiences, shared employment, shared affiliations, and, of course, family ties. In most instances, for the bond to continue, it needs to be nurtured in some way. A bond that may have formed through a shared experience will only endure when those involved in the bond make conscious decisions to pursue actions that will allow the bond to grow stronger.
As believers in Christ, we have a bond with others that is formed through what we share. In Ephesians 4:1-7, we find Paul reminding his readers of seven things that are common among followers of Christ. These seven "ones" not only form the bond, but provide impetus for the bond to endure. He writes: "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; the God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
These seven "ones" should help create a bond that sticks tighter than super glue. Have you ever gotten any of that stuff on your fingers? The bond created can only be dissolved through intentional effort. That is the nature of the bond existing between followers of Christ - it takes intentional effort to dissolve the bond. Of course, this intentional effort is what we need to avoid. We need to focus upon the seven ones so that the bond remains tight. What a difference it makes when we focus on the seven ones.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Nov 16 07:18:02 2011 |
Today's Commentary
A family was very excited about an upcoming trip to go visit an exhibit of the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Dead Sea Scrolls are manuscripts that were discovered in caves along the Dead Sea between 1947 and 1956. They contain much of the Hebrew Bible and other texts and provide the oldest known manuscripts of the Old Testament in existence. They provide evidence of the accuracy of Scripture. The family was thrilled at their upcoming opportunity to see them. They spoke of it often. Their little pre-school aged son got in on the excitement as well. He told a visitor, "We are going to see the Dead Sea squirrels!" Well, he was accurate in the excitement he conveyed in his announcement, even if he was not quite right as to what they would be seeing.
Do you convey excitement about God's Word to your children? We want our children to know God's Word and to use God's Word in their lives. One of the things we need to do in order to ensure that this happens is to not only teach them what the Bible says, but show them how excited we are about God's Word. Values are transmitted to our children through not only what we say, but through the emotions we express. If we want them to have an excitement about learning the Word of God, our excitement about the Word of God needs to show.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 speaks of the responsibility of teaching our children: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates." Let's show our excitement about God's Word to our children so they will be excited as well!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Nov 15 07:16:26 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Did you every play "Follow the Leader" when you were a kid? What would the world look like if everyone followed your example? What if they used your tone of voice and the words you use? What if their responses echoed your responses? What if they acted in the way that you do? What if they adopted your values and attitudes? Would they look more like Jesus? Would they exhibit the same compassion, care, and willingness to forgive? Would they work through problems and deal with others with patience and a desire to understand?
If we honestly ask these questions, we will want to make some changes. In John 13:15, we find these words of Christ to his disciples, "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." So, are we doing for others what Christ has done for us? How well are we following his example? What would the world look like if everyone followed your example? Ask this question often and at various times. You may not like the answer in some circumstances, but the reason for the asking is that you might make an honest evaluation leading to meaningful changes. Live so that others can follow your lead!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Nov 14 07:33:49 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Frank and Emma Garber were told by the doctor "that one won't live" after a difficult delivery had left one of their twin girls with severe facial deformities. However, Angie Garber did live, and in spite of many difficulties, became what she wanted to be - a missionary teacher. You can read about her life in a book written by Bill Hybels and Rob Wilkens entitled "Descending into Greatness."
Surgery to correct her facial problems left Angie deaf in one ear. Her father died when she was young. When she was 19, she contracted polio that left her with little use of her left arm. She still cared for her mother for the next ten years. Five years after the death of her mother, financial problems led to the sale of the family farm. Angie kept trusting in God to help her reach her dream of finishing college and becoming a teacher. Not only did she finish college, but in 1951 at the age of 38, she completed her master's degree at Grace Theological Seminary.
She became a teacher at a Navajo Mission in New Mexico, and for the next 34 years, lived and worked at the mission. Angie faced many obstacles in her walk of faith, yet she was determined to not be discouraged by these obstacles. She was determined to overcome what was in front of her and pursue a life of service to God. She took to heart the advice given by Paul found in Philippians 3:13-14, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
What obstacles lie in your path? What is hindering you from living the life God intends for you to live? Don't let discouragement keep you from pursuing a life of godliness and service. Look to God for your strength and your guidance to navigate the minefields of discouragement.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Nov 13 06:06:09 2011 |
Today's Commentary
How well are you representing Christ to others? Followers of Christ need to live in such a way so as to provide a good picture of Christ to others. In II Corinthians 5:20, we read these words of Paul: "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us." Are we representing Christ well?
In November of 1871, New York Herald reporter Henry Stanley located Dr. David Livingstone on the banks of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. Livingstone, a well-known missionary who had discovered the Zambesi River and Victoria Falls, had not been heard from in years and was presumed dead. Stanley set out discover whether these presumptions were true. After his long search had been rewarded with the finding of a much-alive Livingston, Stanley uttered his famous greeting, "Dr. Livingstone, I presume?"
American Minute records this citation in Stanley's article on Livingstone: "A man who is manifestly sustained as well as guided by influences from Heaven...The...enthusiasm...of his life comes, beyond question, from Christ. There must, therefore, be a Christ."
Is this a conclusion others could reach upon observing your life? Christ has called us to be his witnesses: "you shall be my witnesses (Acts 1:8)," How well are we doing?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Nov 12 08:39:00 2011 |
Today's Commentary
What is your reaction to being "slightly off?" Does hearing a musical note that is slightly off-pitch bother you? What about that cut you just made on the wood molding you are installing? Is it slightly off? Is that picture you just hung slightly off? Our degree of perfectionism usually determines how we respond to these situations where being slightly off is really not a major issue.
However, there are other times when you really don't want to be slightly off. Being slightly off in a turn you are making in a car could mean the difference between hitting someone standing on the curb or not. Do you want your surgeon to be slightly off when he is performing a procedure that is near some vital areas like a nerve bundle or a vital organ? The person who is the "target" in a knife-throwing routine certainly does not want the one throwing the knives to be "slightly off."
Another area where we do not want to ignore something that is slightly off is our behavior. Sometimes we dismiss certain offenses because they "really weren't all that bad." Sometimes we overlook a sin by saying "it wasn't that big a deal." This can be a dangerous attitude. Ignoring sin, whether considered "big" or "little", is not a good practice.
In I Samuel 13, we find Saul had that problem. Instead of waiting on Samuel, he offered up a burnt offering on his own when things looked bad for his army. Samuel confronted him about this and he replied, "When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Mikmash, I thought, 'Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD’s favor.' So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering." (vss. 11:12) Saul informed him that God had already found his replacement, someone after his "own heart." (vs. 14)
The issue here was obedience, and there is no such thing as being slightly off in our obedience of God's commands. Seek his holiness by obeying what he says.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Nov 11 07:17:23 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Today is 11/11/11. I don't know the percentages here, but obviously this doesn't happen all that often. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, fighting finally stopped in the "War to end all Wars," the war that came to be known as World War I. The armistice had been signed at 5 a.m. that morning, but battles raged until 11 a.m. Today was originally a commemoration of that day and in 1954 became Veteran's Day.
Remains of an unknown soldier from World War I were interred in a tomb at Arlington National Cemetery by President Harding on this day in 1921. The inscription on the tomb read "Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God." Remains were added to the tomb from each war since. The remains of the soldier from the Vietnam War interred by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 were later identified as American pilot Michael Blassie.
American Minute reports the following regarding Blassie: "A graduate of St. Louis University High school, 1966, and the U.S. Air Force Academy, 1970, Blassie died when his A-37B Dragonfly was shot down near An Loc, South Vietnam. In 1998, he was reburied at Jefferson
Memorial Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri."
Truer words have never been spoken than "Known but by God." God has knowledge of anyone who has ever lived and died. At some point, all the righteous dead will be raised to live forever with God. "Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them (Revelation 20:6)." However, all those who die without God will be raised to face judgment. "Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. . . Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire." God knows who belongs in each resurrection. You determine in which resurrection you fit. So, which one is it?
A final note - many thanks to all who have served. Veteran's Day is for you.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Nov 10 06:48:18 2011 |
Today's Commentary
It is possible to be one place physically and another place mentally. It happens every Sunday morning in church. Bodies warm the pews while minds roam the kitchens and golf courses of the nation. In a graver example, prisoners of war survive by taking themselves mentally into another world away from the prison and there find meaning and solace. We, as Christians, are to do the same. We are to take ourselves out of the physical world, into the spiritual world, and operate according to its values, truths, and realities. Colossians 3:1-3 tells us: "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."
Doing this doesn't mean to remove ourselves totally from the world - that is not what Paul meant when he wrote those words. What he was encouraging us to do was to make sure we do not allow worldly values, thoughts, mores, and ideals to become ours. We need to have values, thoughts, mores, and ideals that are heavenly while we live in this world. In so doing, we give the Holy Spirit room to operate in our lives, and we can be an influence on others for the sake of Christ.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Nov 9 06:41:22 2011 |
Today's Commentary
As a young man of 26, Theodore Roosevelt lost both his mother and his wife on the same day - Valentine's Day of 1884. His wife had just given birth to a daughter two days earlier. According to American Minute, this event was so devastating that Roosevelt left his position in the state legislature of New York and went to the Dakotas to ranch. After some time, Roosevelt returned to politics, became Secretary of the Navy, fought in the Spanish-American War, became vice-president, and then the youngest president in history upon the assassination of President William McKinley.
Roosevelt wrote later that is was his faith that helped him to overcome the devastating circumstance of the simultaneous deaths of his mother and wife. His faith is evident in his writings. He wrote, "The thought of modern industry in the hands of Christian charity is
a dream worth dreaming. The thought of industry in the hands of paganism is a nightmare
beyond imagining. The choice between the two is upon us."
We all face difficult times. Our faith is what can help us through these times. Roosevelt was able to continue with his service in spite of tremendous personal loss because of his faith. He knew that he could trust in the Lord to be there for him. Psalm 9:10 says, "Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." God will not forsake us. He did not forsake Roosevelt but was there to help him in a dark hour. He is there for us as well.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Nov 8 07:41:41 2011 |
Today's Commentary
God is good at putting us in places that are far away from the familiar and far away from our comfort zone for the purpose of training us and helping us mature and prepare for future tasks. We sometimes chafe under this, but don't forget God is doing it to help you be what you can be for him.
Moses found himself in such a place when he killed an Egyptian who was beating an Israelite. Because of this action, he had to flee, and he found himself in the desert, far away from the comforts of the palace of the Pharaoh he had experienced for the first forty years of his life. He found himself doing tasks that would not have been found in his resume. Exodus 3:1 says, "Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God." It was there, of course, that he encountered a bush that was on fire but was not consumed. Where he had been for the past forty years was certainly different from his first forty years, but was necessary for him so that he could prepare for what he would encounter.
When you find yourself in unfamiliar surroundings and doing something you have not done before, rely upon God's wisdom and guidance. Determine to learn all you can from your experience. What you gain could very well prove to be invaluable to you for what you encounter ahead.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Nov 7 07:23:36 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Billy Graham was born on November 7, 1918. He wanted to be a professional baseball player, but God had other plans for this tall, charismatic, young man from North Carolina. Following God's call, Graham attended Wheaton College where he met Ruth Bell, who would become his wife. Meeting with President Barack Obama on April 25, 2010, meant that he had spent time with twelve American presidents dating back to Harry Truman.
American Minute cites the following statements made about Graham: At a news conference, March 21, 1956, President Eisenhower stated: "This is what I see in Billy Graham - A man who clearly understands that any advance in the world has got to be accompanied by a clear realization that man is, after all, a spiritual being."
Ronald Reagan introduced Billy Graham at a California rally, saying: "Why is a representative of government here? To welcome with humble pride a man whose mission in life has been to remind us that in all our seeking...the answer to each problem is to be found in the simple
words of Jesus of Nazareth, who urged us to love one another."
According to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, he has preached to more than 2.2 billion people and has had 3.2 million respond to the invitation to accept Christ. All this started in a rally held in a circus tent erected in a parking lot in Los Angeles, California, in 1949. William Randolph Heart was partially responsible for his national exposure. He sent a two-word telegram to his papers in Los Angeles, "Puff Graham."
Upon receiving the Congressional Gold Medal in 1996, Billy Graham said: "As we face a new millennium, I believe America has gone a long way down the wrong road. We must turn around...If ever we needed God's help, it is now."
We should be thankful for the ministry of Billy Graham, but never lose sight of the fact that we too have a call upon our lives on which we need to act. It may not be to preach to massive audiences in tents, stadiums, and arenas around the world, but it may be to speak to a neighbor who needs to hear of the love of Christ. Let us follow the Scripture and the example of Billy Graham and answer the call.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Nov 6 06:34:35 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Lead Like Jesus writes: "When was the last time you forgave someone who offended you or hurt you? Most of us have the opportunity to offer and receive forgiveness on a regular basis. Forgiveness is a gift that God gives us in order for us to pass it on to others. Forgiveness that is hoarded without being shared freely is not being used for God's intended purpose. How does your willingness to forgive reflect the forgiveness of Jesus? Who do you need to forgive today?"
Peter asked Christ how many times we need to forgive someone. Christ's response was a statement that said we really should not ask this question. He said, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times (Matthew 18:22)." Forgiveness is more that what we do, it is what we are. We are forgiven people, and we in turn need to be forgiving people.
As you were asked earlier, "Who do you need to forgive today?" Make forgiveness a part of who you are, not just what you do.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Nov 5 06:02:36 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Some time ago, Bill Cosby came to a theater in a nearby town. I didn't go to see him, but I know of several who did. From what I hear, he was his usual hilarious self. One of my all-time favorite Bill Cosby routines is "Noah." At one point in the routine, when Noah is voicing some complaints to God, God interrupts and says, "Noah, how long can you tread water?" Now, I know this is just a comedy routine, but I sometimes like to take things "deeper." To me, what God was actually saying here was, "Noah, I am the one in charge. I know what you need. Just trust me." Actually, God said, "I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out. This is how you are to build it. . .(Genesis 6:13-15)"
Cosby's routine is funny, but what God said to Noah all those years ago was very serious. In reality, Noah did display tremendous trust in God. Noah was a faithful man and that is why God approached him to begin with. God asked him to do something completely out of the ordinary, and we see Noah following God's instructions to the letter. The result: salvation for him and his family.
Following God's instructions will lead to good results. Follow God! Don't make him ask you, "How long can you tread water?"
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Nov 4 06:31:42 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Do you want to know how to win friends and influence people? Be unselfish. When we make a decision to be unselfish, we start looking at ways to be of benefit to others. We look for ways to enhance someone else’s life. Selfishness is at the root of the majority of interpersonal conflicts. Selfishness is a major reason why people are stand-offish and really not easy to be around.
Proverbs 11:24-26 says something about selfishness: "One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper;
whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. People curse the one who hoards grain,
but they pray God’s blessing on the one who is willing to sell."
Living in an unselfish way means you are easier to get along with. It means that you are respected by others because they appreciate your care. Living like this is certainly Christ-like. Living unselfishly will enhance your own life and help you to be of greater benefit to others.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Nov 2 06:55:49 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I would imagine you have heard the expression "you can't get blood from a turnip." This is a truism that can be applied in many ways. Other similar expressions are "you don’t get orange juice from apples"; "you don't get honey from a coconut", and so on. The point of these expressions is to emphasize that whatever is inside of something is that which determines what will come out.
This is true in the case of a person as well. Jesus said, "A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of (Luke 6:45)." A person cannot claim to be kind if his words are unkind. He cannot claim to follow the values of heaven if his mouth speaks the values of the world. Our speech attests to our character. Our heart is the well, and the mouth is the faucet. When the faucet is on, whatever is in the well comes out of the faucet.
Paul addresses this reality in a number of places. In Colossians 4:6 we read, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Ephesians 4:29 says, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Clean up the inside so that what comes out will be pure.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Nov 1 07:23:11 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Today is All Saint's Day. Some in the Christian Church pay more attention to this day than others. Having a day where we look back at some of the people who have gone before us and what they have accomplished in the name of Christ really is a good thing. Reflecting on the lives of the saints has roots in the scripture. We need to set aside time to reflect on those who have followed Christ faithfully and draw principles from their lives that can help us today.
Hebrews 11 is one place in the Bible where we find a group of faithful followers listed. Take the time to read the entire chapter. Time after time you will see the words "By faith. . ." followed by a name and a rehearsal of the dedicated life of the person named. There are sixteen men and women listed specifically, and then the writer concludes with a general description of the exploits of many unnamed followers whose commitment led to death in many cases.
The reason for his writing about these followers is given in his conclusion that is actually found in the first verses of chapter 12. There we read, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (vss. 1-3)."
Whatever level you are on in your observance All Saint's Day, every follower of Christ needs to take time to reflect on the faithful saints who have given us examples of how to live committed lives even in times of persecution. They help define faith with their examples. Take some time to review the lessons they teach us. Doing so will help us to live better the life of faith.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Oct 31 07:03:53 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Today is Halloween - perhaps the most debated holiday on the calendar in the Christian community. I have bought my candy and have made preparations for visitors this evening. Halloween is what you make it.
The origin of Halloween is in an ancient Celtic practice of putting on costumes to ward off evil spirits. Now, this causes many to cringe. However, remember that the church took this day and made November 1 All Saint's Day. The day before became known as All Hallow's Eve, or Halloween. As with many holidays of the church, the modern observance has morphed into a modern money-maker for card, candy, decoration, costume and many other companies. So, do we just simply trash it? Well, as I have written about similar observances, use it to your advantage as a time of celebration and as a time of proclamation. Emphasize the elements where a witness for Christ can be made and downplay the secular and questionable.
Paul gave us a rather interesting principle of presenting our testimony in I Corinthians 9:22, "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." Now, I don't think I am doing an injustice to this verse to say we should apply this principle and think of how we can use Halloween to present the message of Christ. It really isn't a stretch. Use a jack o' lantern to present the Gospel message. Focus on resurrection, not death. Be creative!
Use the message of Halloween to present the message of Christ! Candy is nice, but Christ's gift is what matters!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Oct 30 06:04:45 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I read an article this past week about a man who found a giant man made of LEGO's washed up on a beach in Siesta Key, Florida. An enigmatic message was attached to the creation: "No real than you are." Huh? Well, this discovery begs many questions: Who made this man? Where did it come from? Why was it made? What is the meaning of the message? What is the meaning of creation? You could go on and on and on. At this time, there are no answers. Incidentally, the company that makes LEGOs was contacted and said it wasn't their idea.
Looking at the world around us begs the same questions: Who made all of this? Where did it come from? Why was it made? What is the meaning of all we see? We have all the answers we need in the scripture. However, in the last 150 years we have gone in a dangerous direction. Darwin started the ball rolling by ignoring the scripture and trying to answer these questions on his own. The result is the mess we have today. David had the right idea when he wrote, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful,
I know that full well (Psalm 139:14)." It is truly a shame that Charles Darwin didn't agree with this, and many in the name of science have followed his lead not only about life but about the origin of everything.
The origin and meaning of the LEGO man is a mystery and speculation about these is just that - speculation. It is a shame that Darwin didn't see that when he ignored the Scripture and dove into the realm of speculation about origins. What is rather ironic is that no one would deny that there must have been a creator somewhere for the LEGO man to exist. Darwin and those who have followed his footsteps do not follow this logic when it comes to our world. What we see just "happened." To quote myself from above: "Huh?"
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Oct 29 09:47:59 2011 |
Today's Commentary
"The church is full of hypocrites." How many times have you heard that? Many times we simply dismiss this by saying, "Well, we are all hypocrites." To a great extent, we are correct. However, we need to make sure we aren't making this statement true. Joanie Yoder writes, "How many times have we been like the Christian woman who glanced through her window, only to see a nosy, noisy neighbor approaching her door! Her young, impressionable children heard her as she growled, 'Oh, no—not her again!' Whereupon she opened the door and gushed insincerely, 'How very nice to see you!'"
Make sure your words and your actions match. My dear mother said to me so many times, "Your actions are speaking so loud I can hardly hear what you are saying." Christ comments on the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and said, "But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach (Matthew 23:3)."
We can dismiss the criticism of skeptics who cry out "hypocrisy!" if we want, but let's make sure that we aren't hypocritical in the dismissal. We do need to match actions with words. Let's make sure they agree.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Oct 28 09:24:33 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I saw a book advertised on the internet with the following headlines: "Ship Sinks Millions in Payroll Lost;" "The New York East River Bank still holds almost three million in English gold that sank just off what is now the Bronx New York;" "The Red Eyed Cat is an ordinary ceramic cat with a "X" on the bottom, holds a treasure of Rubies."
Those are tempting headlines, aren't they? Makes you want to invest in the book and get to looking for some of that lost treasure! Well, I have a better idea. Job 28:12-19 talks about a real treasure that is accessible to us: "But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell? No mortal comprehends its worth; it cannot be found in the land of the living. The deep says, 'It is not in me'; the sea says, 'It is not with me.' It cannot be bought with the finest gold, nor can its price be weighed out in silver. It cannot be bought with the gold of Ophir, with precious onyx or lapis lazuli. Neither gold nor crystal can compare with it, nor can it be had for jewels of gold. Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies. The topaz of Cush cannot compare with it; it cannot be bought with pure gold."
Wisdom is so necessary for us in our lives. We need wisdom to help us answer the important questions in life: "What should I do in life?", "Whom should I marry?", "What should I say to someone who has betrayed me?", "Can I really afford this purchase?" We do not need to dig for wisdom or follow some obscure treasure map. God knows the way to find wisdom (Job 18:23), and "If you need wisdom, ask your generous God, and he will give it to you (James 1:5)."
If you want something valuable, don't go on an ill-advised treasure hunt, seek wisdom! And remember that "The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding (Job 18:28)." |
Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Oct 26 07:13:12 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Mart De Haan writes about the closing of a zoo in Milan, Illinois. After being open for more than 60 years and attracting millions of visitors, the zoo was shut down amidst the cries of animal rights activists that protested the "inhumane" treatment of the animals in the zoo. After the zoo closed, a rather sad thing happened. Homeless people moved in and began sleeping in the cages that once held animals. This continued until authorities prevented the people from sleeping there anymore.
A further irony to this scenario is that the zoo was located only a few blocks from the fashion district of Milan. Just about 400 yards from the zoo where homeless people gathered, there were shops that attracted people from all over the world who came to buy the expensive clothes, jewelry, and accessories.
People sleeping like animals is truly a sad thing, but who was farther from the image of God - the homeless who slept at the zoo or the rich who frequented the shops located just a short distance away? We can be so prideful, even to the point of being judgmental of others. We need to be careful of this and display the image of God as we work with others.
Proverbs 16:18 says, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." In Daniel 4, you can read how God dealt with one person's pride. Nebuchadnezzar was forced to live like an animal because of his pride before God. God told him to stop sinning and show mercy towards the poor (4:27).
Don't make God take such drastic measures in your life to deal with your pride. Show that you are one of God's creatures as you minister to others who have been created in the image of God regardless of their physical condition.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Oct 24 07:40:26 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I recently heard about an individual who abandoned his house in the neighborhood in which he lived and moved to another more affluent neighborhood and purchased a house there. He didn't sell his former house; he simply left it, along with the mortgage and the association dues which went towards the upkeep of the property. Well, the mortgage company foreclosed on the property. This meant that other properties in the neighborhood were devalued and the costs of maintaining the property were levied on the other homeowners because of the dues not being paid. It was not that the individual could not pay the mortgage, as his purchase of another home attests; he simply wanted to move and didn't want the hassle of selling his former property.
This is certainly an example of robbing your neighbor. Leviticus 19:13 tells us that we should not "defraud or rob our neighbor." This individual showed little regard for his neighbors as his actions hurt their positions as homeowners. He robbed and defrauded them. Now, he didn't do it directly or really in a way that we might say was criminal. However, his indirect actions had the result of taking away what was theirs. His actions were certainly not the way to "love your neighbor as yourself (Romans 13:9)."
We may not walk away from a mortgage, but we are often guilty of doing things that demonstrate a lack of love for others. When we leave tasks undone that others must finish, or fail to do something we should have done, or "make messes" that others have to clean up, we are in violation of Paul's words found in Romans 13:10 that say, "Love does no harm for a neighbor." There are things that need to be done in our churches, ministries that need to be accomplished, and work that begs to be finished. When we don't do our part to help with these, we leave the tasks for others. This is not a good way to show love for others and is also a case of robbing your neighbor.
The actions of the person who abandoned his house were indeed deplorable. But before you go too far in your condemnation, examine yourself to make sure you aren't doing things that fall into the same boat.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Oct 23 06:07:39 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Following Jesus does not guarantee that the journey will be easy or that the outcomes will always be the ones for which we hope. On days when the struggles seem to outweigh the benefits, it's a good idea to go back to the beginning. Going back to our roots can help us face present struggles. Recall that Jesus was a servant leader and faced many struggles along his journey; remember your call and your first steps along the journey with Him; remember how He has been faithful to you before and specific times when God intervened in a special way; remember His presence with you today. All of these can help to strengthen you as you continue to be faithful to Him in spite of the difficulties along the way.
In Deuteronomy 7:17-18, God told His people, "You may say to yourselves, 'These nations are stronger than we are. How can we drive them out?' But do not be afraid of them; remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt." We can do the same. We can recall how he has proven faithful to us. God can say to us, "Remember well what the Lord your God did to. . ." To help you with a present struggle, remember well a past victory.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Oct 22 08:40:04 2011 |
Today's Commentary
K.T. Sim writes about a conversation between and illustrator and a typist. The typist asks, "Why is a picture worth a thousand words?" The illustrator replies, "How fast do you type?" "About twenty five words a minute," the typist says. "That's it!" exclaims the illustrator, "When I draw a cartoon, it takes me about forty minutes! In that time, you would have typed about a thousand words!"
I am not quite sure this is truly the meaning of the old adage about the worth of a picture, but I do know that the scripture contains a number of word pictures that illustrate various concepts. Christ proclaims that we are the "salt of the earth" (Matthew 5:13). He talks about having faith the size of a mustard seed (Matthew 17:20). In John 15:5, he declares, "I am the vine, you are the branches."
None of the picture illustrations used in the Scripture are as dramatic as those used to describe the brevity of life. In Job 9:25-26, life is compared to a swift runner and a boat of papyrus. According to Job 14:2, we "spring up like flowers and wither away." James encourages his readers to live wisely by writing, "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes (4:14)". I Peter 1:24 reminds us, "All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field;
the grass withers and the flowers fall." Are you getting the message here?
With so many word pictures telling us plainly that our lives are short and we need to live righteously, one would think we wouldn't have a problem grasping the concept of the brevity of life. Yet, it seems we don't take this message to heart. Well, we should. And if you are having a problem with this, remember God says, "Let me illustrate. . ."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Oct 21 07:00:42 2011 |
Today's Commentary
This past summer, a new high efficiency heating and air conditioning unit was installed in our home. With the hot summer we had, the newer unit was much appreciated. However, as the weather has become colder and the heating has taken over, my appreciation level has risen. Our home is heated more evenly and I can't get over the fact that a PVC pipe has replaced the traditional metal exhaust. High efficiency units work so well that the exhaust is cool enough to be handled by a plastic pipe. This is really something. It means that there is minimal waste of the heat generated by the furnace. Almost all the heat goes towards the intended purpose of the unit - to heat the house.
We need to work to become "high efficiency" in our Christian lives. Sometimes there is a great deal of "exhaust" because we fail to live in such a way as to utilize fully all that God gives us to glorify him. We let the power the Holy Spirit provides for us go up through the pipe because we don't allow him to work for us and within us the way we should.
God has given us all we need to live for him. Romans 8:32 tells us, "He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" He designed us for "high efficiency." But we often squander his resources and ignore his design. This is a problem. Live the way God intended for you to live. Demonstrate high efficiency with your life!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Oct 20 07:18:43 2011 |
Today's Commentary
One of the saddest stories I have ever heard in my life is the story of Humpty Dumpty. I think you remember it - "Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. All the king's horses and all the king's men couldn't put Humpty together again." This story always bugged me when I was a kid. I would think of other ways for the story to end - having the men fix him, having the king fix him, even somehow changing the story so Humpty didn't fall. Just think of it: to be broken in such a way that repair is impossible. How sad that would be.
We often feel as if our life is in pieces. Circumstances occur that cause us to feel as if we are falling apart. Sometimes decisions are made that leaves lives in pieces. It may seem as if the pieces will never go back together again. However, this isn't Humpty Dumpty, and the king's men aren't the ones responsible for putting the pieces together. They couldn't do it anyway. There is someone who can, though. He has the ability, he has the desire, and he knows what to do. Christ can take your brokenness and restore you completely. He gave his life to mend broken lives.
Do you feel as if your life is in pieces? Do you know someone who is shattered or broken and needs Christ's love? Joanie Yoder writes "What the king's men couldn't do, the king can!" Psalm 31:12-16 talks of God's restoration, "I am forgotten by them as though I were dead; I have become like broken pottery. . .But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hand. . .Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love." Let Christ put things back together again.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Oct 19 07:19:19 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Christmas is coming - started your Christmas shopping yet? Speaking of shopping, in the past some unscrupulous retailers used an unethical method called the "bait-and-switch" technique to enhance profits. An item would be advertised as being on sale. When the shopper asks for the advertised item, the shopper is told the item is out of stock and an inferior product is offered at a marked up price to obtain a healthy profit. The sale item was on display just to get the shopper in the store.
A similar scenario is happening involving the Christian message. Some "evangelists" and "Bible teachers" use familiar Christian terms and words to present a "Gospel" that, to use Paul's terminology, is a "different gospel." Galatians 1:6-9 addresses this problem: "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!"
Be careful what you listen to and read. There are a number of teachers who simply are not telling the truth. The words are there and familiar terminology is used to attract listeners, but the message is simply not the truth. This inferior message can even be a dangerous message.
What can you do to avoid this? Becoming familiar with God's Word is a primary line of defense. Rely upon the inner witness and power of the Holy Spirit. Get involved in a local church that is committed to the true message of Scripture. Listen to teachers you know and trust. Following these thoughts can help you avoid the old "bait-and-switch."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Oct 18 06:58:58 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I remember a song from when I was a child that went, "Oh, be careful little hands what you do" along with other verses such as "Oh, be careful little eyes what you see." Are you old enough to remember this one? Although it is a children's chorus, it conveys mature wisdom.
In Matthew 6:22-23, Christ said, "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!" Christ used the thinking of the ancients to convey an important truth. The eye was thought to be the internal fire of the body. What came through the eye illuminated one's internal being.
What comes through your eye? What links attract you as you are on the internet? What attracts you on TV? What literature attracts your attention? We become like what our eye is drawn towards. We need to practice purity in what grabs our eye. Giving undo attention and time to sites and scenes that evoke carnal desires and lustful thoughts is not a good thing. The eye influences the heart, and as the scripture tells us, "as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.(Proverbs 23:7 KJV)."
"Oh be careful little eye what you see" are more than just cute lyrics in a children's song. This is good advice for all of us all the time. Guard your eye so that your heart will be illuminated by the light of purity. What you allow in through your eye will change you. Make sure it is a positive change.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Oct 17 07:48:10 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Recently I read a story about a lady who walked out of her house one morning to find an unfamiliar vehicle in her driveway with a note attached. The note read, "I am giving this to you because I love you," but there was no name. The car was just what she needed to replace her older vehicle that was not in good shape. She didn't have a clue as to who her benefactor might be, so she hung a sign on her garage that read, "Thank you, God."
Someone asked her, "Did the car just fall from heaven?" No, of course it didn't. But the woman believed that, whoever the human agent was, the gift was from the Lord. So, it was entirely appropriate that she thank God for her new car. Her sign conveyed her gratitude to her anonymous friend and also acknowledged the truth that all good gifts come from the Lord.
David recognized this and gave thanks to God after a tremendous outpouring of gifts from the people for building the temple. You can read the entire story in I Chronicles 29. In response to the people's generosity, David says, "Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power (vs. 12)." While it was true the people brought all the things in to be used for the construction of the temple, David did well in acknowledging the actual source of these gifts. God deserved the praise David gave to him.
Keep this in mind as you receive blessings. Others may be the channels of these gifts, and certainly deserve to be thanked, but don't forget the source. Remember to thank God for your gift.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Oct 16 06:09:23 2011 |
Today's Commentary
In our services at our church today, we will celebrate our 125th anniversary. On January 30, 1886, twenty people met to form a Baptist church in Newton. One hundred and twenty-five years later, God has given us the privilege of saying we are still here! We indeed are blessed, and we are grateful to be able to recognize God's faithfulness to us today.
Anniversaries are significant events. They offer an opportunity to recall the past. Whether it is a wedding, a graduation, the beginning of a business, or some other event, anniversaries are opportunities to recall special times, special moments, and what took place at a special event. It is significant to recall events from our past that have special meaning to us today. Peter speaks of recalling important words, "I want you to recall the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets and the command given by our Lord and Savior through your apostles." (II Peter 3:2)
Anniversaries are opportunities to reflect on the present. When we observe an anniversary, we can look at where we have been and where we are now to see what progress and growth has been made. Anniversaries are also opportunities to rehearse for the future. As we see where we have been, and look at where we are, we gain perspective on what we need to do to get to where we want to be.
We celebrate what took place 125 years ago because had it not taken place, we would not have a reason to celebrate. We wouldn't be here! But we are, and we want to take steps to preserve our future, looking forward to continued blessing from God and continued service to Him until He steps in and brings us to Himself. Happy Anniversary, First Baptist Church!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Oct 15 09:16:05 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Lead Like Jesus asks this question: "Has God ever called you to an impossible task? Something that you knew you could not (or cannot) accomplish in your own strength; something that you know will require you to depend wholly on Him. Something that will serve to draw you closer to His side, to seek His wisdom, to cling to Him for strength, and to follow Him more closel?"
God often calls us to do things that make us, to say the least, "step out of our comfort zone." We should be willing to do this, and realize that he would not call us to do something that we are unable to do. Rather, he will not call us to do something that he will not equip us with what we need to do what he asks of us.
Think about the many people in the Scripture that were called to do seemingly impossible things. Noah was asked to build a gigantic ark. Nehemiah was called to rebuild a wall. David faced Goliath. And we certainly should not forget Mary, the mother of Christ. Don't you imagine that God's call for her seemed rather formidable as she was listening to Gabriel’s presentation (Luke 1:25-38)? But she was given this promise, "The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you (vs. 35)." Mary responded, "I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled (vs. 38)."
What impossible task is God calling you to today? Remember Mary's response as you consider God's challenge!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Oct 14 07:12:49 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Often people who are searching for jobs become frustrated because they hear potential employers tell them, "We are looking for someone with experience." The job seekers have a valid point when they ask, "How can I get experience if no one will hire me because I am inexperienced?" This is indeed frustrating.
It is hard to fault the job seekers for their frustration, but one can understand the point of the employers as well. Experience does tend to be the best teacher. God acknowledges this in how he deals with us in our lives. God uses our experiences to teach us to serve others. As we seek him through the seasons of our lives, we gain wisdom, perspective, understanding, confidence, and courage. These qualities not only prepare us for the future but they provide a platform where we can influence those around us. Sometimes the experiences are things we would not like to have, but God knows what they can do for us. He knows what benefits we will derive that will make us better prepared to serve him and to be of help to others. In Ephesians 3:20-21, Paul reminds us that God is at work in us, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen."
Experience is the best teacher. What is frustrating to us today is likely making us wise for tomorrow.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Oct 13 07:08:01 2011 |
Today's Commentary
One year ago today (October 13), the last of 33 Chilean miners stepped out of a specially-constructed rescue pod after being trapped underground for 69 days. The world had watched with rapt attention at the efforts conducted by a multi-national rescue team. It was a day of jubilation. Families were reunited, praises for the rescuers were in abundance, and prayers were answered. Many comments had been made during those 69 days, but one that was particularly interesting was a statement made in a letter written by 19-year-old miner, Jimmy Sanchez. He said, "There are actually 34 of us, because God has never left us down here."
This is a true statement that is affirmed in the scripture. David wrote in Psalm 139:7-10, "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast."
God is with us at all times. This is a comforting thought, but also a convicting thought. It means he is always there to help us, and he always sees what we do. We are cared for by an all-knowing (vv. 1-4), ever-present (5-12), and all powerful God (13-18). Isn't that something? It certainly was for David, it was something for Jimmy Sanchez, and it is for us!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Oct 12 07:23:10 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The story of the Voyage of St. Brendan was first published in 900 AD. St. Brendan was a 6th century monk who embarked upon a rather remarkable sea voyage. Much of what was said about Brendan in the 10th century poem is a little fantastical. However, there is a kernel of truth at the center of the story as Brendan was a real character who made a number of discoveries during a lengthy sea voyage. When the story was first published, hundreds of pilgrims flocked to his home town of Ardfert in search of guidance. There is a stained glass window commemorating his exploits in the chapel at the United States Naval Academy.
One of the results of taking bold steps is the inspiration of others. When we stand boldly for Christ, we influence others and inspire others to stand boldly as well. When we step out of our "comfort zone" to serve Christ and accomplish tasks for him, we help others do the same. Think of how you have been inspired by the actions of others to do something for the sake of Christ. Live in such a way so as to be an inspiration to others for the sake of Christ.
In I Corinthians 4:16, we read Paul's encouragement: "Therefore I urge you to imitate me." Are you doing anything worthy of being imitated? Why not? Step out in service and faithfulness in order that you may be an example for others and an inspiration for others in their service for Christ.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Oct 11 06:45:59 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I recently came across the following story: "A sergeant in the Indiana National Guard was demoted and sentenced to 4 days in jail because he refused to take off his cap. It really wasn't that simple. The incident occurred during winter training exercises when temperatures were well below freezing. The man wore a soft cap with ear flaps under a regulation helmet. The previous spring he had suffered burns to his face and ears, and doctors had advised him to wear a cap to protect his sensitive skin.
At this point you're probably feeling sorry for the guardsman. But there's more to the story. In the official report, there was evidence that the man was intoxicated, and this incident of insubordination had been preceded by two other warnings about proper headgear. The soldier was not excused, though he thought he should have been. Like so many of us, he made the mistake of thinking he was within his rights to dismiss the orders of someone in authority."
We have this same problem, don't we? We often struggle with taking orders from those in authority. We often struggle with taking orders from the One who is the ultimate authority. Why? Well, it is in our nature to rebel. Remember Adam and Eve?
Having trouble with an earthly authority is one thing, but having trouble with God is another. We may have a legitimate reason to question an earthly authority at times. However, we never have a legitimate reason to question God's authority. Rebellion against God is an unwise activity at any time. He is always in a better position to understand our needs, know what is best for us, and give us precise direction. Obeying him will simply make our lives better. I John 5:3 tells us, "This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome." Unburden yourself by accepting God's authority.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Oct 10 07:13:14 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I have always been fascinated by the story of Christ's baptism. There are so many wonderful aspects to this story. Luke records the presence of all three persons of the Trinity at the time of the baptism: "When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: 'You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.'" (Luke 3:21-22) Can you imagine being present at that baptism? Can you imagine what must have gone through the mind of John as he performed the baptism?
Of all the aspects of the baptism, one that catches me is the "passing the torch" theme. John said himself that the one who would follow him would be greater than he. He told his listeners he wasn't even worthy to loose Christ's sandals. The baptism almost said, "I now relinquish my ministry to Jesus. He is now in charge." Then Christ took up the ministry and did what he came to do.
I think we should look at our baptism from this perspective. We should view our baptism as an act of "passing the torch." Christ intended for us to "take over" the ministry he began. The question is: How are we doing? Are we doing what we need to do to continue the ministry of Christ? When Christ was preparing to depart, he told his disciples, "You shall be my witnesses." (Acts 1:8) That responsibility has been passed down to us. We may be 2000 years removed from the command, but it is just as binding on us as it was for those first century followers. How are we doing?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Oct 9 06:20:03 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Have you ever had super glue or oil-based paint on your fingers? Hard to get this stuff off, isn't it? As a matter of fact, these substances will stick and stick without the right agent to remove them. When the correct solvent is applied, the glue or the paint that seemed impossible to remove comes off easily.
We often face circumstances in life that seem to want to stick and appear to be impossible to remove. We sometimes face burdens and struggles that just don't look like they are going to go away anytime soon. Just remember that what seems impossible to remove will indeed come off if we do what we know we should - turn those sticky messes over to God. Our burdens and struggles, even those brought about by our sin, can be removed if we place our struggles in the hands of God. The Bible says, "Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you." (Psalm 55:22)
We face a lot of junk in our lives. Turn this junk over to our loving Lord and watch how he puts things in order. God knows how to take a mess and make a masterpiece.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Oct 8 07:11:51 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Solomon writes in Ecclesiastes 3:11, "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men." Humans sometimes struggle in life because we want to know as much as we can about the whole, the purpose of things, the meaning of life so to speak. We have a desire to know the point of it all. This desire stems from who we are and how we have been created. This desire is one of the aspects that sets us apart from all the rest of God's creation. Many folks get frustrated because they can't seem to find answers. The reason for the frustration is because they are not taking into consideration what Solomon has said is "in (their) hearts" - eternity. The meaning and reality of life cannot be fully understood and appreciated apart from considering life from the perspective of eternity.
We are eternal beings. If we are looking for meaning and purpose in our present existence alone, we will be frustrated. Cultivating an eternal perspective is necessary for us to truly see life as it really is. There is more to our existence than what we experience here and now. We know this from our study of scripture and from listening to what God says. However, we often fail to apply this truth to all aspects of our lives. We need to look at our experiences with an eternal eye, we need to live our lives in such a way as to show that we truly believe in eternity. Our belief in eternity should influence how we make decisions, what we do, where we go, our relationships, and everything else. We need to live our lives here and now with the perspective of eternity. Doing this will make all the difference in the world. Our frustration will be diminished because we are living the way we should - with "eternity in (our) hearts.".
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Oct 7 07:36:02 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Do you have a hard time at being a receiver? There are those who have difficulty receiving gifts. They prefer to be on the giving side, so when it comes to accepting gifts, they struggle. Now, when the gift is something like a toaster or a tie, this is not a really big issue. However, there are times when the gift being offered is an expression related to a need. And so you struggle with what is being offered because you say "I don't need anything" when perhaps you do.
I do not disagree with the statement "it is better to give than to receive", but there are times when receiving is helpful, perhaps even necessary. Don't allow your pride or other attitude to stand between you and something you truly need because of a problem with receiving. God has gifts for us as well, and we often neglect them and miss these gifts because of our attitude towards receiving.
Paul encourages us in I Corinthians 12:31, "Now eagerly desire the greater gifts." These gifts prepare of us for service to God and to our fellow believers in the church. Don't let your attitude towards gifts stand in your way to being used by God. And don’t' turn away those gifts that will enable you to meet needs in your life you might not be able to meet otherwise. There are times when it is better to receive.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Oct 6 07:58:57 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The theories of Darwin have caused a lot of problems. There is the obvious problem that relates to the questions raised about the Creation account as found in Genesis. However, the problems don't stop there. The subtitle Darwin's "The Origin of the Species" is "The Preservation of Favored Species in the Struggle for Life." This title gives us a clue as to other problems that his theories caused.
Marx championed "Social Darwinism" which led to the conflict between the "working class" and the "property class." The Nazis under Hitler took Darwin's theories and applied them to their search for the "Master Race" at the expense of millions of people including 6 million Jews, as well as countless others who had their lives radically altered because of their experiences.
The Lord promises a time when all oppression will cease. He promises a time when no race will look down on another and there will be no thought of a "super race." As Christians, we reject the very idea of one race being superior to another. Man's theories and thoughts have led to conflict, rejection, abuse, and outright war. Micah tells us, "He will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation,
nor will they train for war anymore. Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the LORD Almighty has spoken (Micah 4:3-4)."
We need to reject the ideas fostered by the theories of Darwin. We need to pursue justice and promote values based on scriptural teaching. God will indeed step in at some point and settle everything, but until he does let us make sure we are reflecting his ideals in our way of life.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Oct 5 07:26:53 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Nehemiah opened himself up to criticism. What did he do? Well, he got busy rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem that was in ruins. His activity invited criticism, which is what usually happens when someone gets an idea and then steps out to enact that idea. Nehemiah 4:1-3 records some of this criticism, "When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became angry and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews, and in the presence of his associates and the army of Samaria, he said, 'What are those feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble - burned as they are?'"
There are always critics who make their appearance when someone steps up to put action to words. This happens because of jealousy, fear, hatred, pride and other reasons. If our activity invites criticism, we might ask ourselves, "Is any of this criticism warranted? Are there any good ideas or helpful suggestions that could make our plans better?" If there are some good thoughts, then all the better for us. If the criticism contains nothing more than worthless comments, then consider the criticism as a compliment that you are actually doing something and file the comments in an appropriate place. In addition, make sure you are not one of those who simply wants to be critical because you have nothing else better to do.
Theodore Roosevelt was a man of action. He said, "It is not the critic who counts; nor the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood. There is no effort without error and shortcoming."
Ignore the critics and be a person who is in the arena, not part of the crowd. That is how things get built.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Oct 4 07:24:53 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Arnold Toynbee died in October of 1975. In his monumental work "Study of History", Toynbee presented the rise and fall of 26 different civilizations including the Greeks, Romans, and Peru. Toynbee said that "civilizations die from suicide, not murder." Toynbee wrote, "When I started, religion was not a prominent feature. In writing my study, I have been constantly surprised to find religion coming back to fill an even greater place. So what does the universe look like? It looks as if everything were on the move either toward its Creator or away from Him. The course of human history consists of a series of encounters... in which each man or woman or child...is challenged by God to make the free choice between doing God's will and refusing to do it." (American Minute)
Let us hope our civilization is not in the midst of committing suicide, although we are certainly making choices that are leading us down that path. It doesn't take a historical expert like Toynbee to see that attitudes towards God and the scripture are deteriorating rapidly. Toynbee pointed out emphatically that a decision needs to be made. We need to make a decision personally, and as a nation we must decide "between doing God's will and refusing to do it." May we make the right decision.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Oct 3 07:37:55 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Elisa Morgan, president of MOPS International (Mothers Of Pre-Schoolers), shared this insight into a child's view of the world:
Toddler's Creed
If I want it, it's mine.
If I give it to you and change my mind later, it's mine.
If I can take it away from you, it's mine.
If I had it a little while ago, it's mine.
If it's mine, it will never belong to anyone else, no matter what.
If we are building something together, all the pieces are mine.
If it looks just like mine, it is mine.
Now, what we consider normal in the world of a toddler, sometimes even cute, is something we want to go away as we grow older. Exodus 20:17 says, "You shall not covet." Sometimes this characteristic so prominent in us as a toddler continues to manifest itself when we are and adult. When we look at what others have, and then think we need to have just as much, that is coveting. When we see others who don't have, yet are unwilling to give up some of what we have in order to help those in need, that is coveting. When we fail to give to God what is rightfully his and keep it for ourselves, this is coveting.
One of the hallmarks of a mature individual is that they have outgrown the disposition found in them as a child of thinking everything is theirs. Yet we often continue to struggle with thinking everything is "mine" whether it be what someone else has or a failure to give away what we have that should go somewhere else. Paul mentioned his struggle with this in Romans 7:7, "For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, 'You shall not covet.'" Generosity is the acid test of whether or not we are still toddlers. How are you doing?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Oct 2 06:03:54 2011 |
Today's Commentary
A GPS is an interesting device. When you miss a turn or make a mistake in following the directions, you are rerouted. Sometimes when this happens, you begin to rely on your own sense of direction and your own ability to get you where you want to be. This can be a problem.
The same can be true as you seek God's will in balancing your faith with decisions that come up in your life. We need to learn to rely upon what Scripture teaches us about God's will and avoid our dependence upon our emotions, circumstances, and in some cases human counsel. We need to learn to "Seek first the kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33) and remember that God will always be there to provide direction as we go along the pathway of life.
Don't ignore God's leadership, especially at times when you think you are being "rerouted." His ways are always best. Rely upon him first of all as you make decisions that will affect your direction. He will never fail to provide good counsel.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Oct 1 07:39:05 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Grief is a universal experience yet we struggle in our efforts to help others who are dealing with the loss of loved one. The examples of intervention we see in scripture are good models for us to use when we walk with someone along the path of grief.
The first step is to realize that our presence is a great help at times of grief. Job's friends traveled from their homes just to be with him when they heard of his loss. Job 2:11 tells us, "When Job’s three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite, heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him." They thought being with him was important enough for them to change what they were doing and go to their friend. When they arrived, they identified with his grief by openly weeping with him (2:12). Empathy is an important step in helping others who hurt. Finally, they realized they had no words that could take away the pain, so they wisely decided not to say anything and simply listen to Job: "Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was (2:13)." We read elsewhere in Job of the helpfulness of this. Job's words in 21:2 tell us, "Listen carefully to my words; let this be the consolation you give me."
These are good things to remember as we help others at times of loss. Remembering these can keep us from the temptation of saying things that are not helpful because we feel we need to say something. To help those dealing with grief, remember the old adage, "I am all ears." Above all, do not forget to pray for those who are suffering because of loss. Our presence is helpful, but we know it is God who will ultimately bring comfort to those who mourn (Matthew 5:4).
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Sep 30 07:28:01 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The baseball playoffs are upon us. I came across this article in a newsletter from the First Baptist Church of Flora and I thought I would share it:
Freddy and the Lord stood by to observe a baseball game. The Lord's team was playing Satan's team. The Lord's team was at bat, the score was tied zero to zero, and it was the bottom of the 9th inning with two outs. They continued to watch as a batter stepped up to the plate named Love. Love swung at the first pitch and hit a single, because Love never fails. The next batter was named Faith, who also got a single because Faith works with Love.
The next batter up was named Godly Wisdom. Satan wound up and threw the first pitch. Godly Wisdom looked it over and let it pass: Ball one. Three more pitches and Godly Wisdom walked because he never swings at what Satan throws. The bases were now loaded. The Lord then turned to Freddy and told him He was now going to bring in His star player. Up to the plate stepped Grace. Thinking he had won the game, Satan wound up and fired his first pitch. To the shock of everyone, Grace hit the ball harder than anyone had ever seen! But Satan was not worried; his center fielder let very few get by. He went up for the ball, but it went right through his glove, hit him on the head and sent him crashing on the ground; the roaring crowds went wild as the ball continued over the fence for a home run! The Lord's team won!
The Lord then asked Freddy if he knew why Love, Faith, and Godly Wisdom could get on base but couldn't win the game. Freddy answered that he didn’t know why. The Lord explained, "If your love, faith, and wisdom had won the game, you would think you had done it by yourself. Love, Faith and Wisdom will get you on base but only My Grace can get you Home: 'For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.'" (Ephesians 2:8-9)
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Sep 29 07:17:44 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Tim Gustafson writes about an observation found in an Abigail Van Buren column some time back. "Dear Abby" wrote: "There are two kinds of people in the world: Those who walk into a room and say, 'There you are!' and those who walk into a room and declare 'I am here.'" Which one are you?
The only person who ever lived who truly had the right to declare "I am here" seemed more committed to the "there you are" mentality. So many times Christ declared "There you are!" He said this with his response to the lady who knew she only needed to touch his garments and she would be healed (Matthew 9:20). He said this with his approach to a sinful Samaritan woman who came to draw water from a well (John 4). He said this when he invited himself to the home of a person who had climbed a tree to get a better look at someone he had heard so much about (Luke 19). Christ always seemed more interested in someone else's life than he was his own.
This is one area where we should strive to be more Christ-like. We should determine to be more interested in someone else's life than we are our own. It is so easy to get wrapped up with our own activities, concerns, and problems that we don't look out for others. This is not a good thing, and does not mirror either the teaching or the example of Christ. Christ tells us, "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 7:12)
Work on being a "there you are" type of person rather than an "I am here." Our world has seen enough of "I am here."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Sep 28 06:51:59 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Recently I read a rather sad story about a wounded duck. Some fishermen discovered a duck with an arrow protruding from its chest near where they were fishing. All efforts to try to trap the duck so that they could remove the arrow were met with frantic maneuvers by the duck to escape. It is hard to blame the duck, but its instinct for self-preservation that led it to fly away whenever the would-be helpers came close was actually working to bring further harm.
We can be like that duck. We can make the wrong moves when we are wounded to cause further harm by evading those who would like to help us. We can even be this way towards God who wants to render aid but is met with resistance because we think we can handle the difficulty we are encountering on our own.
Don't act like that wounded duck. When you need help, let others help you. Let God do what he does best for his children - heal your hurt and get them back where you need to be. Remember that "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." (Psalm 46:10)
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Sep 27 07:38:40 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I cannot imagine the courage of Nathan Hale. As a 21-year-old teacher, he had joined the fight for independence from the British. A young man of great faith, he had almost followed in the footsteps of his older brother to become a minister. As a teacher, he communicated to his students the need to follow Christ along with training them to become better writers and better people.
He was captured in Long Island as he was trying to return to General Washington with information he had obtained about British troop movements. He asked his captors for a Bible, but was refused. He wrote letters to his mother and brother, but the British destroyed them, not wishing for anyone to see his resolve. Before he was hanged from an apple tree in Rutgers’s orchard in what is now downtown Manhattan, Hale said, "I regret that I have only one life to lose for my country." American Minute reports that author Edward Everett Hale, a descendant, wrote about Nathan Hale: "We are God's children, you and I, and we have our duties...Thank God I come from men who are not afraid in battle."
We are indeed God's children, you and I, and we do come from men who are not afraid of battle. Hebrews 11 gives us a stellar list of these people from whom we are descended spiritually. We should do our best to exemplify courage and boldness in our Christian walk as they did. Hebrews 12:1-3 tells us: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Sep 26 08:58:34 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I remember hearing a sermon one time when I was a young boy about how fast-paced life seems to be. That was almost 50 years ago, and life hasn't gotten any slower. The minister said, "It seems we are always rushing to do something - zip, zip, zip." Well, that is certainly true, but what makes life so fast paced is our decision to not control the amount of activities in which we participate. This can be true in our spiritual lives as well, and we often make the mistake of equating "busyness" with godliness. We set ourselves up to fail when we increase our activities and then are unable to live up to our own expectations as to how we perform in these activities. Try to avoid this.
Reading the opening chapters of Genesis should give us some perspective as to how we should manage our activities and our lives. When God created, he followed an orderly plan and didn't do everything at once. The creation followed a progression and work was divided. This allowed God to be satisfied with what was done - "And God saw that it was good." (Genesis 1:25) This allowed for enjoyment of the activity and gives us a pattern to follow when we plan our involvement. The order of creation offers far more than just a story as to how things got here. There is a progression in the narrative that provides a pattern we need to follow. When this is done, then we are able to do what God did, rest at the end of the activity and let things proceed in the way they were designed to perform.
If your hectic lifestyle has robbed you of enjoyment, peace, joy, satisfaction, and caused you to be irritable and frustrated, do something about it. Try to rid yourself of some of the "zip, zip, zip" so that you can appreciate more of what God has done and is doing in your life. As the old saying goes, "take time to stop and smell the roses."
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Sep 25 08:08:16 2011 |
Today's Commentary
One of the key to any team's success is getting all the different personalities to work together. A big struggle is making those who are incompatible compatible. Egos, differences of opinion, differences of technique, and different goals are among the many factors that can pose challenges to the concept of "team," that is, everyone working together at the same time for a common goal. The success of a team depends upon getting the many to act as one.
This is true in our churches as well as on athletic teams. Peter encouraged his readers: "Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." (I Peter 3:8-9) Working out differences, sacrificing on behalf of others, laying aside dislikes, and dealing with negative feelings are all part of what needs to be done in the church so that the church can be effective in ministry. Someone has compared the church to a family of porcupines trying to huddle together for warmth on a cold night. This is not all that inaccurate.
Our individuality is significant. Our likes and dislikes are important. However, there are times when these need to be tempered for the greater good of outreach. Let's do what we can to turn incompatibility into compatibility.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Sep 24 09:13:20 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The world needs more folks like an ex-GI by the name of Downey who led an effort to raise funds to build a hospital and an orphanage in Beran, Ethiopia. An article written in a local newspaper about him said just that, "The world needs more beautiful people like Mr. Downey. Why aren't there more human beings like him?"
That is a good question. We may not be able to be a "beautiful person" like Mr. Downey and build a hospital and an orphanage, but we can strive to be a beautiful Christian in the way the scripture describes how a Christian should be. We can strive to be beautiful people in the way described in I Peter 3:4: "Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight." We should strive to treat others well, be gentle, kind, generous and helpful. We should demonstrate a compassionate and caring attitude towards others. In this way, we can be "beautiful Christians."
Are you a beautiful Christian? Show others that you are.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Sep 23 08:37:17 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Have you ever had trouble focusing? Sometimes we have trouble keeping focused because of all that we have going on in our lives, or perhaps we are facing a great struggle or some other circumstance that keeps us from being able to devote our attention to the task we need to accomplish. This can be frustrating.
When we face life situations that leave us in a position where we have trouble focusing and carrying out our normal routines, we need to stop and start small. Pick one task and think about what we need to do to perform that task. And, above all, let God in to help you with your progress. Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Christ provides for us when we have trouble providing for ourselves. Christ will help us with those small steps.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Sep 22 06:59:50 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Ignacy Jan Paderewski was a famous Polish pianist who lived during the latter half of the 19th and first half of the 20th century. He was a statesman as well as a pianist. He was also a successful businessman. However, after his dalliance in business and his "retirement" from his quite varied political career, he returned to performing after a successful and quite varied political career. He received many honors and awards, including being names an honorary Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire. During an interview, he said, "“It is not from choice that my life is music and nothing more, but when one is an artist what else can he be?"
Huh? Your life is music and nothing more? What about your successful business? Your political achievements? What about all of your awards and honors? After all this, you still say that "when one is an artist what else can he be?" This was how Paderewski viewed himself. In spite of all the other accomplishments of his life, he viewed himself as an artist. That was what was important to him.
How do you view yourself? What do you consider to be your true identity? For those of the early church, the answer to this was clear - they were Christians. When "the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch" (Acts 11:26), that was a significant moment. They saw themselves and wanted to seen by others in one way - as followers of Christ. To paraphrase Paderewski, "when one is a Christian what else can he be?" This should be our desire - to be like Christ, to be like him in any way we can. What else can we be?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Sep 20 07:03:58 2011 |
Today's Commentary
One major controversy that has surfaced in this still-young NFL season is the new instant replay review rules. Replay review was instilled some years back in an effort to get calls by the referees on close plays correct. Coaches are allowed to "challenge" questionable calls on a limited basis. However, under new rules, they cannot challenge a scoring play as that is now in the hands of a replay referee. This has caused a problem because questionable touchdowns have been passed over by replay referees in some games and thus the controversy.
Now, replay review is a good idea, but it will take some time to get things right with how to use it. It really is good to get things right. This is true in life in general.. We should try to get things right as we live to please God and live the kind of life we should. We should try to get things right in our relationships with those we love. We should get things right in the way we treat others and act towards others. Of course, the thing about life is that we don't have the luxury of "replay review." Misbehavior is something we can't do over. When inappropriate words come streaming out of our mouth, we don't have the ability to review what just happened and get it right. Most of our actions are simply not correctable once we commit to those actions.
We need to consider this as we go through life. We need to understand our accountability to God and to others and act accordingly. Consider the consequences of acts and words before we allow them to play out. Peter gives this advice regarding our lives, "But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander." (I Peter 3:15-16) Remember that in life, unlike in football, there are no replay reviews.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Sep 19 07:12:32 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I don't know if you have ever watched any of the cable channels that deal with "hoarders." As you may know, a "hoarder" refers to someone who struggles with a disorder that manifests in their keeping everything they can get their hands on. We are not talking about simply hanging on to a few things; folks who suffer with this keep so much they are a danger to themselves.
We can be hoarders in a number of ways. Aside from hanging on to too much physical stuff, we sometimes have to deal with hanging on to too much emotional baggage. We often hang on to things from the past that bring us down in the present and threaten our future. All of us have experiences that shape our lives and many of these events are not pleasant. For those events that cause us emotional pain and injury, we need to do what is necessary to put them in perspective, deal with the consequences as best we can, and work positively to accomplish good things in our lives that will bring about a brighter tomorrow.
Paul spoke about putting the past in perspective in Philippians 3:13-14, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Paul was not entirely happy with some of the things he had done and what he had been in the past, but he knew he needed perspective about the past that would not hinder what he had yet to do. Let's strive to develop this perspective. Don't "hoard" that which will do nothing but bring you harm.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Sep 18 05:54:18 2011 |
Today's Commentary
It is interesting to see whom Jesus used as role models. He used a "sinful woman" to demonstrate how we should love (Luke 7:47). When he wanted to show what faith should look like, he said about the faith of a pagan soldier, a centurion, "Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith." (Matthew 8:10) I would imagine this rattled a few cages. Children were used as examples of trust (Luke 7:47). So, whom did he use when he wanted to demonstrate true generosity? A destitute woman, of course!
Mark 12:41-44 gives us the story, "Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."
Here Christ tells us what true sacrifice and true generosity is. True sacrifice is when you give to the point where you are dependent upon God for other necessities in your life. Not many of us have been to that point. Sheridan Voysey wrote "True sacrifice leaves us vulnerable, with our arms outstretched to God." This is the spirit in which we should give.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Sep 17 07:23:54 2011 |
Today's Commentary
"No man can study the movement of modern civilization from an impartial standpoint and not realize that Christianity, and the spread of Christianity, are the basis of hope of modern civilization in the growth of popular self government. The spirit of Christianity is pure democracy. It is equality of man before God - the equality of man before the law, which is the most God-like manifestation that man has been able to make."
Some might say that it would take a big man to make such a claim as this. In actuality, a big man did make this claim. His name was William Howard Taft. He was our 27th president and he also weighed over 300 pounds. This made him the largest person to ever serve as president of the United States. He was also the only president to serve as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court.
Taft's statement above is so true. "Christianity, and the spread of Christianity" certainly are the basis of hope for modern civilization. When we forget Christ and that Christ is God's provision for the redemption of man, we toss hope out the window. Hebrews 11:6 tells us, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
I hope you know Him, and if you don't, I hope you realize the importance of earnestly seeking God. To go without his provision for you is to live without hope. It really doesn't take a "big man" to admit this, and to give him your life. Taft realized this, I hope you will as well.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Sep 16 06:45:57 2011 |
Today's Commentary
On this day (September 16) in 1620, 102 people on a ship called the Mayflower departed the land that was their home to proceed westward to a land that was unknown to any of them and would become their new home. A sister ship, the Speedwell, encountered problems not long after the departure and had to return. The journey of 2,750 miles would take 66 days and be fraught with many problems. However, they were determined to reach this new land where they hoped they would be able to continue their lives free from the persecution they had experienced in their homeland because of their faith.
Can you imagine what it must have been like for them? Actually, you probably can't. I know I certainly have no concept of what they must have been feeling, what thoughts they must have had, and the concerns that were theirs as they embarked on an unknown vessel across an unknown ocean to an unknown land. Courage was certainly not in short supply. Faith was not in short supply. Determination was not in short supply. It is a gross understatement to say they were a group of people who were not afraid to take risks.
Having the willingness to take risks and to step out courageously to do something new and different is a good thing. We need a sense of the pioneer at times to bring about change and to reach out boldly to see good things happen. Paul is a biblical example of a person with the spirit of a pioneer - willing to step out, to take risks, and to go where others feared to venture. What fueled his spirit? He gives us a clue in Philippians 3:10, "I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death."
The desire to know more about Christ and to do more for Christ often requires a little bit of the pioneer spirit. Use the examples of Paul and of the Pilgrims as role models for developing a desire to reach out in new ways for new results.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Sep 15 07:06:36 2011 |
Today's Commentary
As I write this article, I hear a sound that is music to my ears, and to the ears of everyone who lives in my part of the country - the sound of rain hitting the roof. It has been weeks since we have heard this sound. Although not as bad as other parts of the nation, we have been in a prolonged dry spell that has affected our crop yield and caused other problems. I hope it rains for days.
As I think of the topic of rain, I recall a passage in I Kings where Elijah told the people of Israel, "Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, 'As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word..'" (I Kings 17:1) In the very next verse, we see that God supplied Elijah's needs by directing him to the brook in Kerith Ravine where he would have a continued supply of water in spite of the drought. In addition, God directed ravens to bring food to his obedient prophet.
When we are obedient, we can be confident that God will bring to us a continued source of help in times of distress and judgment. Although God was bringing judgment on the people because of their idolatry and waywardness, he brought encouragement and sustenance to his obedient prophet.
Do you want God to continue to supply rain in your life? Continue to walk with him and enjoy your relationship with him. His abundance will supply your need. He will place you beside a brook and bring you what you need. But if you choose to walk contrary to his purposes, don't be surprised when drought prevails.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Sep 14 06:37:44 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Recently I read an article about a group of believers in Sri Lanka. The article stated, "For several years, believers from five villages would hop from house to house for Sunday worship. Without a church building of their own, they were forced to meet in different homes to praise Jesus and study the Word. But it all came to an abrupt halt in June." The article went on to say that the halt came to the "home churches" because the people were able to build a church because of donations sent to them by folks from other parts of the world.
We enjoy hearing about the progress of believers in this regard, yet we shouldn't overlook some of the positive aspects of "home churches." This was the nature of the church during the time after Pentecost. Acts 5:42 says, "Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah." As we worship in our churches today, we shouldn't lose the spirit and the dynamic that comes from worship in intimate surroundings and the closeness that is fostered through small groups. This is one reason why we have small groups at our church. The early church worshiped in homes because they had little opportunity to do otherwise, as did the Sri Lankan believers. We return to this dynamic by choice, not of necessity, but realizing the importance of worship and the importance of developing close relationships with those with whom we worship.
As small groups start here at our church, I hope all of you are planning on being a part of these groups. In your own church, I hope all of you have an opportunity to be involved in a small group. I know if you are you will find a marvelous experience of worship that will help you bring glory to God, and bring strength to your soul.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Sep 13 07:38:40 2011 |
Today's Commentary
A little boy was watching his mother apply some creme to her face. "Why do you do that?" he asked. The mom replied, "Because it takes away the wrinkles and helps me look younger." "Then why isn't it working?" the little boy said innocently.
Oh, sometimes the truth hurts, doesn't it? There are times we need to hear a message we don't like, but it is the truth and we need to hear it. If we have someone close to us who is willing to deliver that message, we have a true friend indeed. Sometimes God uses those close to us to point out flaws even though honest words can be painful (Job 6:25) Telling the truth can sometimes be risky, but if we have a friend who is willing to take the risk to tell us the truth, we have a true friend. On the other hand, there are times we need to be that true friend and be willing to tell someone close to us something that isn't really pleasant to hear, but needs to be heard anyway.
David's sin with Bathsheba was something that had to be revealed. Nathan stood courageously before the king and declared, "You are the man." (II Samuel 12:7) These words led David to repent of his sin. Mordecai told his cousin Esther "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish." (Esther 4:14) These words spurred Esther into action that led to salvation for her people.
Proverbs 27:6 tells us, "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses." Be grateful if you have such a friend. Do the best you can to be this sort of friend for another. The truth may hurt, but deception can destroy.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Sep 12 07:04:12 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Psalm 96:1 tells us to "Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth." An important expression of our love of God comes through our songs that we offer to him. Singing praises to him is a great way of showing outwardly how we feel in our hearts. And, singing is a lot of fun. Have you ever wondered why God gave music to us and why we read so much about singing in the Scripture? One reason is that God does indeed enjoy our praise, and also God wants to see us enjoy giving praise. Music brings that out for us - a true enjoyment of giving praise to our God.
Sing to the Lord a new song - or sing to the Lord a song you've known all of your life. Whatever you do, just be sure to sing. Singing lets God know that we appreciate what he has done for us. Singing helps us to "Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples." (Psalm 96:3)
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Sep 11 05:55:23 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Ten years ago today at approximately 8:46 a.m. EST, the first event of a chain of events took place that changed our world as we knew it. To me, it seems like just yesterday, but I know there will be a large segment of our church population today at our services who were either not born yet or are too young to remember what took place. As we watched or heard the reports of jets crashing into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania, there was almost a denial that this was actually happening. Of course, for those who were experiencing these events first-hand, they did not have the luxury of denial. The events were real.
Indeed, these events were real and changed history, at least from our perspective. They changed history as many other catastrophic events, both man-made and naturally occurring, have changed history,. Events such as the destruction of Pompeii, the wreck of the Titanic, and the attack on Pearl Harbor, caused a shift in the world from a human perspective. People were moved, shaken, and alarmed at these events. So much destruction and loss of life in such a short time has a way of doing this. When such events take place, it is good to know that we have a Father who is unaffected by catastrophe. This is not to say that he does not care, it is just that world events have no impact on God. Therefore, when our world is moved, we can trust in an immoveable God. When we trust in God, we know we can stand firm.
When our world is shaken, whether by cataclysmic events such as what took place ten years ago today or some personal circumstance, remember the words of Psalms 104:5, "He set the earth on its foundations; it can never be moved." Whatever may happen, God will never be moved.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Sep 10 07:07:17 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Summer is winding down - did you go anywhere interesting this year? Well, you can travel at other times of the year, but summer is certainly the season of vacations and going places. Traveling to new locations is always a treat, and can bring fullness to our lives we might not have otherwise.
We should look at our life with Jesus as a wondrous journey. Each day takes us to new places, brings new challenges, offers new insights as to what we should be doing and what we should be experiencing in our relationship with the Savior. You will meet people who can help you as you grow in the Savior. You will also meet people who need your help and your compassion as they face situations in their lives with which you may help. You may encounter others who don't need big solutions, but just need someone to walk along with them for awhile in their journey.
Consider your life in Christ as an exciting journey. Christ is leading you along an exciting path of discovery and fulfillment. The journey involves faith and trust, as did the journey of the disciples commissioned by Christ to go serve him, "Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts." (Mark 6:8) It is this aspect of the journey that makes it what it is - an experience of growth and victory. Follow Christ, and enjoy your trip!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Sep 9 07:26:40 2011 |
Today's Commentary
In The Present Future: Six Tough Questions for the Church, Reggie McNeal writes, "A growing number of people are leaving the institutional church for a new reason. They are not leaving because they have lost faith. They are leaving the church to preserve their faith. They contend that the church no longer contributes to their spiritual development."
In this scenario, do we blame the people, or do we blame the church? Many times people leave the church because of unrealistic expectations of what they think the church should be. So, they decide to "go it on their own." The problem is this is contrary to what the scripture teachers regarding our role in the church. We need to look for what we can contribute to the ministry of the church, and not so much at what we expect to get out of the church. Often, the reason we are not getting anything from the church is because we are not contributing anything to the church.
We need to consider what our part is to being a part of the effort of the church so we won't come apart. Remember Paul's words in I Corinthians 12:12, "Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ." What are we doing to preserve the body of Christ?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Sep 8 06:58:35 2011 |
Today's Commentary
On this day in 2005, New Orleans and the surrounding area were devastated by one of the most destructive hurricanes in American history - Katrina. An irony is that on this date in A.D. 70, the Roman military juggernaut destroyed Jerusalem. The Second Temple was completely torn apart and Jerusalem was ransacked. A further bit of irony is that Katrina hit just days after President Bush encouraged Israel to evacuate Gaza in exchange for peace. Is there any connection here? Well, this would enter the realm of speculation and we need to be cautious here about drawing any conclusions.
One conclusion that we should reach is the need for support of Israel. God is not finished with that land or the people of that land. Contrary to what many might say, God's promises to Israel are still very much in effect, and we need to be aware of this. We need to understand that Israel and the Middle East, not the United States, are at the center of prophetic revelation.
Peter declared, "God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins." (Acts 5:31) Christ came to die for all people everywhere, but we need to remember God has a special purpose for Israel that has yet to be fulfilled. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Sep 7 07:17:09 2011 |
Today's Commentary
"Wednesday, SEPTEMBER 7, 1774, 9 o'clock a.m. Agreeable to the resolve of yesterday, the meeting was opened with prayers by the Rev. Mr. Duche'. Voted, That the thanks of Congress be given to Mr. Duche'...for performing divine Service, and for the excellent prayer, which he
composed and delivered on the occasion."
Rev. Jacob Duche' had prayed: "O God of Wisdom...direct the counsel of this Honorable Assembly...that the scene of blood may be speedily closed...that Truth and Justice, Religion and Piety, prevail." (American Minute, September 7, 2011)
I cannot imagine what must have been going through the minds of those men as they met as the First Continental Congress on the brink of war with the most powerful country in the world at the time - Great Britain. As they did, they knew what they needed to do and "agreeable to the resolve" of all present, they prayed. Reading more about Rev. Duche' prayer helps to realize that the prayer not just an idle repetition of words, but a true time of intercession for the work of the Congress and a time when God was implored to intervene.
We need to realize the necessity of prayer, not just at times of great need in our lives, but at all times. Whatever might be said about prayer today or whatever attitude our leaders have about prayer today, we know that the founders of our nation knew the importance and significance of inviting God into their activities. Let us never lose sight of this reality.
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Sep 6 07:32:13 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Well, it is the day after Labor Day. Are you excited about getting back to work or to school? Why is it that just a little time off can seem to disrupt our "equilibrium" enough as to make it difficult for us to go about our normal schedules? This is an interesting and sometimes annoying phenomenon. Usually we go on with our routine, and our usual drive and function returns. However, there is one area where we need to exercise a little caution when we go off our usual routine and that is with our attendance in worship.
The writer to the Hebrews tells us, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (Hebrews 10:24-25) He wrote this encouragement with the understanding of how easy it is for us to get "out of the habit" of meeting together. There are a number of reasons for this, none of them good, and we need to avoid this tendency. Fellowship with other believers and worship of God is just too important to fall victim to our tendency to change our routine once it gets disrupted. Take care to avoid this tendency and keep your equilibrium healthy!
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Sep 5 08:58:29 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Work is not a four letter word. There are many who treat it as such, but those of us who are followers of Christ need to have a healthy view of work. Listen to the words of Solomon regarding work: "Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its rovisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest--and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man." (Proverbs 6:6-11)
These verses show us that God honors work. We know that not just from these verses but from the fact that God engages in work. Consider the act of creation in Genesis 1 and 2. Also consider what Paul tells us in Philippians 1:6, "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Work is something that we should honor. We also demonstrate the character of God through our attitude towards our work. By having a good attitude towards our work, we demonstrate God's character to others.
I hope you enjoy your respite on this Labor Day, that is, if you did get a break! Just remember, we should have a positive attitude towards our work.
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Sep 4 05:40:24 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I have heard it said that English is a difficult language to learn if you are not a native speaker. This is because of the size of the vocabulary and the proliferation of idiomatic expressions. You probably are familiar with using expressions such as "an arm and a leg," "back to the drawing board," "cut to the chase," or even "that dog won't (or will) hunt." When using these expressions with folks who are not familiar with them, one needs to take care in order to be understood. Sometimes using certain expressions even needs to be explained to English speakers.
As followers of Christ, we often need to be careful when we are communicating the Gospel to others. We need to make sure that what we are saying is being understood. Sometimes we use phrases and expressions with which we are familiar but those who are not followers of Christ aren't. We may use expressions that are drawn directly from the Bible, but when we are speaking with someone who is unfamiliar with the Bible, what we are saying may be ineffective because the listener simply does not know the meaning of our expressions.
Make sure your meaning is clear when you are communicating the message of the Gospel. An inability to understand can be frustrating; no doubt you have experienced this. Keep this in mind when you are talking with others about Christ and his message. In Ephesians 3:8-9, Paul speaks of making plain the message of Christ, "this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery." Make the message plain!
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Sep 3 09:18:06 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Recently an article appeared on the internet entitled "5 Doomsday Scenarios for the Economy." We do live in an uncertain economic age. But, what generation has not lived amidst uncertainty? To me, the greatest problem is the belief that certainty about life can be attained here and now. I don't want to sound like a doomsday prophet, but it really is not so much prophecy as it is reality. We will never reach a "steady state" in our life here and now. No generation will ever reach a "steady state" here and now. A steady state will not be reached until God intervenes and brings about the events which will change things.
Given this reality, what we must do is continue to live godly lives and trust God. We must turn things into his hands - all the uncertainly, all the confusion, all the "doomsday scenarios." We know that God will intervene at some point in time - the time of his choosing - and bring in the events which will lead to the establishment of His Righteous Kingdom. We don't know when, but Christ said, "You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him (Luke 12:40)."
We must be ready, we should be watching. When that time comes, a steady state will be ushered in. Let's leave things in the hands of the Lord. Trusting in him will give us confidence no matter what "doomsday" seems to be on the horizon.
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Sep 2 07:38:14 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Benjamin Franklin believed in the resurrection. He affirmed this through his epitaph, which he composed: "The body of B. Franklin, Printer (Like the Cover of an Old Book Its Contents torn Out And Stript of its Lettering and Gilding) Lies Here, Food for Worms. But the Work shall not be Lost; For it will (as he Believ'd) Appear once More In a New and More Elegant Edition Revised and Corrected By the Author."
When I speak at the funeral of a follower of Christ, I remind the family and friends about the hope of resurrection. This is a reality for those who die in the Lord - they have the assurance of eternal life because of Christ's provision for them. We believe in the resurrection not because of the writing of Ben Franklin, but because of the assurance of God's Word. Paul states in I Corinthians 15:19-20, "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep."
Indeed we who believe in Christ know we will "appear once more in a new and more elegant edition." As Paul continues in I Corinthians 15:51, "Listen, I tell you a mystery. We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed." This is the hope of all who know Him.
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Sep 1 08:18:59 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Have you ever come upon a box turtle trying to cross a road? Kind of pitiful isn't it? The little turtle is just simply too slow to be doing what he's doing, but stubbornly continues on his path towards wherever he wants to be in spite of the perils that surround him.
I recently read a story written by a lady who had come upon a box turtle trying to cross a road and head toward a busy intersection that would mean his certain demise. She stopped, picked up the turtle, and then took it into some nearby woods where there were an abundance of berries, shade, and a water source. It was turtle heaven! She put the turtle down and decided to wait to see what he would do. As he emerged from his carapace into which he had retreated upon being picked up, he looked around a bit, and then headed straight for the road and the busy intersection where he would indeed meet certain doom. Sort of crazy, don't you think?
Well, we can be a lot like that turtle. God puts us in a place where we can experience a virtual "heaven on earth," complete with all we need to live for him, and we demonstrate our stubbornness by returning to the path were following - a path that is leading towards some problematic consequences.
Why do we do this? Because, like the turtle, it is our nature. Paul describes the problem in Romans 7:18, "For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out." We need to continue to fight our "nature" so that we can please God, and avoid the consequences of "dangerous intersections." I hope that box turtle got the same point before he went too far. No doubt he had time enough to think about a change.
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Aug 31 07:09:34 2011 |
Today's Commentary
For some time now, it has been known that clergy and prayer have been banned at the upcoming memorial service at Ground Zero commemorating the tenth anniversary of 9/11. Here is an excerpt from a letter I received from AFA:
"The tenth anniversary of the Islamic jihadist attacks on New York on 9/11 will soon be upon us. Faith in God sustained millions of Americans on that day and the days that followed. Americans looked to God and to their spiritual leaders for comfort and guidance. But New York mayor Michael Bloomberg has banned all clergy and all prayer from the upcoming 9/11 memorial service planned to commemorate the tragic events of that day.
In times of crisis, America's political leaders have always turned to prayer. This includes FDR, who himself prayed on national radio on June 6, 1944, as our troops launched the invasion of Normandy.
It's time that Mayor Bloomberg hears from all of us that this deliberate insult to the faith of Americans, and indeed to God himself, is inexcusable. As Rudy Washington, deputy mayor under former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, said, 'This is America, and to have a memorial service where there's no prayer, this appears to be insanity to me. I feel like America has lost its way.'"
This is not an issue of "separation of church and state," it is simply a reflection of the path that our country is on at this time. I think a passage Peter wrote describes what we see here: "Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, 'Where is this coming he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.' But they deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water." (II Peter 3:3-5) Let's pray that people remember before it's too late.
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Aug 30 06:32:55 2011 |
Today's Commentary
For whom and for what do you pray? We usually pray for friends and family members that have a need of some sort. We pray for folks that others tell us about that are going through rough times or could use God's intervention in some way. We pray for programs and ministries at our churches and elsewhere. We pray to give thanks to God for what we have received from him or for his provision in our life in specific incident. This is as it should be. James 5:16 tells to "confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."
What about praying for some others? What about praying for the person who cooked the meal you just ate in a restaurant? What about praying to give thanks for the folks who put together the car you own? What about praying for the person who designed the park you enjoy so much? I know this may sound a little different, but think about people for whom you don't normally pray and think about situations for which you don't normally pray in your prayer time. What this can do is to help you focus a little bit more clearly in your prayer life and add some freshness in your prayer time. It also helps you to be more aware of people and circumstances that you may not usually consider. This is not a bad idea.
I Thessalonians 5:17 tells us that it is God's will that we "pray continually." When you consider some of these suggestions, you see some reasons for why we need to pray continually.
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Aug 29 06:52:31 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Yesterday at church I used the following quote in my morning message: "The fundamental basis of this nation's law was given to Moses on the Mount. The fundamental basis of our Bill of Rights comes from the teaching we get from Exodus and St. Matthew, from Isaiah and St. Paul. I don't think we emphasize that enough these days. If we don't have the proper fundamental moral background, we will finally end up with a totalitarian government which does not believe in the right for anybody except the state." Harry S. Truman
How much more prophetic can you get? With his statements concerning the relevance of the Scripture in our society, President Truman trumpeted loudly and clearly why we cannot and should not lay down the Bible. It is a real concern that the Bible is playing less and less a part in our governmental activities. May we not be so lackadaisical with regard to the use of the Bible in our private lives. Paul tells us, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." (II Timothy 3:16)
God's Word needs to be a part of your life - actually, God's Word should be your life. Don't neglect what He has to say to you!
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Aug 28 06:08:07 2011 |
Today's Commentary
In 2008, the Washington Post performed an experiment. They had Joshua Bell, a world-class Grammy-winning violinist, perform in a metro station at rush hour to see if anyone would stop and listen. He performed an intricate piece by Bach on his 3.5 million dollar violin for more than twenty minutes before anyone paid any attention to him at all. Then someone simply dropped a dollar in his open violin case before hurrying away. The most attention he got during his 45-minute concert was from a three-year-old whose mother finally scooted him along. He received $32 in tips - just three days earlier he had sold out a concert hall in Boston at an average price of $100 per ticket.
The conclusion of the Post article was, "If we don't have time to stop and hear one of the best violinists in the world playing some of the best music every written, how many other things are we missing?" How many others things indeed. Often our "busyness" causes us to miss many things, occasionally even what God wants to say to us. Many times more often than occasionally.
Psalm 19:1-4 tells us, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world." God is indeed speaking to us. Do not miss what he is saying. Missing music because of too many distractions is bad enough, do not miss out on the voice of God.
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Aug 27 08:21:05 2011 |
Today's Commentary
This past Wednesday in our Bible Study at church, reconciliation was one of the key topics we discussed. Paul like that word and used it at least two books - Romans and II Corinthians. He also talked about the concept without actually using the word in a number of other books. This refers to everything being set right between God and us. We are at odds with God unless we establish a relationship with him through Christ. Then, having established this relationship, Paul states that we now have the "ministry of reconciliation," meaning that we should do all we can to help others be reconciled to the Father.
Reconciliation between people is also important. When two people are at odds with each other, there are a lot of negative consequences. Jacob had tricked his brother Esau out of his birthright and his blessing and, therefore, was at odds with him (read Genesis 25 - 27). Esau had declared that, upon the death of their father, he was going to kill Jacob. Jacob had to flee in order to keep alive. Almost twenty years passed and then God stepped in. He told Jacob to go reconcile with his brother (Genesis 31:1). Jacob was fearful, even with so much time having passed, but he obeyed God. He initiated the reconciliation by sending word to Esau about his intentions. Word came that Esau was coming to meet him with 400 men (32:6). However, he pursued his intentions. First, he prayed, then he went to Esau and bowed before him (33:3), demonstrating humility and contriteness. What was the result? "But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept." (Genesis 33:4) Can you imagine this? What a great thing!
When we find ourselves at odds with others, we should follow the pattern of Jacob. Initiate the reconciliation, seek God's intervention, and then demonstrate our humility and sorrow before the one with whom we need to be reconciled. This is all you can do and the rest will be up to the acceptance of the other person. Pursuing this path hopefully will result in forgiveness and reconciliation. Following this path does demonstrate obedience to God.
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Aug 26 07:30:35 2011 |
Today's Commentary
A grandmother took her three year-old granddaughter to the beach for an afternoon of building sand castles and enjoying the water. After they had constructed a rather elaborate structure, complete with moat, the grandmother got up to deposit some refuse in a near-by trash can. She hadn't gone ten feet when she heard a wail from her granddaughter. She quickly returned to the little girl and asked, "Honey, what's wrong?" "I couldn't see you!" was the reply. "But, darling, I was just right there," said the grandmother. The little girl replied, "I know. But I couldn't see your face!" She wanted to be able to see the "I am right here and I am not going to leave you" expression in her grandmother's face in order to be assured that she was safe and all was right with the world.
David writes in Psalm 27:8-9, "My heart says of you, 'Seek his face!' Your face, LORD, I will seek. Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper." We should want to see God's face in order to receive the assurance of God's help and protection. We seek his face in order to develop a deeper relationship with him and thus allow our faith in him to be strengthened. We seek his face to experience the affirmation of his care and our safety in his arms.
Are you a little concerned about what is taking place in your life right now? Has some situation made you fearful and a little anxious? Seek his face - looking into the face of our Father gives us the faith to confront our most worrisome troubles.
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Aug 25 07:07:33 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Along with millions of other Americans, I share a heart condition called atrial fibrillation. Recently I spent some time in the hospital with another bout of a-fib. This is when your heart starts beating erratically and to compensate for beating out of rhythm, the heart begins to beat rapidly as well. I take medicine to prevent this, but sometimes the medicine does not work. So, I continue to be under a doctor's care.
I have another heart condition as well. This one I also share with millions, perhaps even billions, of others. Christ speaks of this heart condition in Matthew 6:21 when he says, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This heart condition is defined by my "treasure." I have a continual struggle to make sure I desire the right treasure in order for my heart to be in the right place. Last evening, we talked about this in our Bible study. We have a struggle with having the right "treasure." Too many times our treasure is what we can get from our day to day lives - our money, our possessions, and our things. If our focus is upon the acquiring these items, then that is where we find our heart. Christ says if this is where our focus lies, then our heart is in the wrong place. Just before his statement given above, he told his followers to "store up treasures in heaven" that cannot be corrupted. This is where our focus should be, and when it is, we find our heart to be right where it should be as well and in perfect health.
What is ironic about my last bout of a-fib is it started as I was watching a news broadcast about the turmoil in the stock market. Now, isn't that interesting?
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Aug 24 06:54:32 2011 |
Today's Commentary
This is the time of year when there is a scene being repeated thousands of times all across the United States - parents giving their child one more hug before they drive off and leave them at college for the first time. Are you one of those parents? If you are, I can appreciate how you must be feeling. We went through this rite of passage with our two daughters. It is a time that is both exciting, yet a source of fear; happy, yet a cause of sadness; necessary, yet a breeding ground for uncertainty. Have I covered all the bases?
I would imagine Jochabed might have experienced many of these same ambivalent feelings as she placed her infant son in a pitch-lined basket and set him to float among the reeds that grew along the banks of the Nile River. Can you imagine the amount of faith it must have taken to follow this course of action? She knew she needed to have faith in God to protect her son. This faith continued to be evident when she took Moses to Pharaoh’s daughter to join Pharaoh’s household. "So the woman took the baby and nursed him. When the child grew older, she took him to Pharaoh’s daughter and he became her son. She named him Moses, saying, 'I drew him out of the water.'" In order for Moses to become the person God wanted him to be, Jochabed had to place him in God's hands.
As parents, there comes a time when we do the same thing. We do all we can for our children, and one of the most important things we can do is place them in hands of God. One thing is for sure, we know he is capable of taking good care of them.
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Aug 23 06:57:39 2011 |
Today's Commentary
A real estate agent was showing a dilapidated property to a prospective buyer. It was an old warehouse that had most of its windows broken out, doors that were hanging loosely, ceilings falling in, and a great deal of masonry in need of repair. The agent said, "The seller will repair all the windows as well as make all other updates should you decide to buy this property." "Don't bother," said the businessman, "I'm not interested in the building, I want the site. The building is to be torn down so I can build a new store."
Like the prospective buyer of this property, Jesus is not interested in what you can bring to him, he is interested in what he can do for you. Many people labor under the mistaken assumption that we need to try to be good enough, to be able to contribute enough money, to be able to offer enough in the way of service to the church, or many other efforts, to somehow appease him and gain entrance into eternal life. I remember being with my oldest daughter on a visit to Peru and striking up a conversation with a young shop keeper about her relationship with Christ. She told me she didn't have enough money to be able to be part of Christ's church. In my broken Spanish I told her, "Jesus no desea su dinero, Jesus desea su corazon" (Jesus does not want your money, he wants your heart). Paul tells us, "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, 'Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.'" (Romans 10:9-11)
I hope you realize this - you can bring nothing to Jesus that will obtain his acceptance. You have nothing of value he wants except your heart. He wants you and wants to do something for you. If you have not allowed him access to your "site," why not do so today?
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Aug 21 08:23:45 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Folks who don't believe in God give a lot of reasons for their skepticism. However, when you condense all of these reasons, a common thread may be found. Folks do not believe in God because God doesn't match who they think God should be. So many times I have heard, "If there is a God, then why do bad things happen?" and similar questions. Raising the questions provides justification for denying God's reality. Woody Allen said, "If only God would give me a sign, like making a large deposit in my name at a Swiss bank." The intent of this remark may have been humorous, but it reflects a serious issue - a denial of God for who he is and our position before him.
Believers often fall into a different sort of trap. We tend to put God in a box. We must realize that God is who he is - he is not what we think he should be. When we make the mistake of trying to "think for God" and making plans for him, instead of letting him make plans for us, we can get into some real trouble. When we focus on what we think God is not doing, we miss what he is doing. There were a group of people in Christ's day that did just that. Even after the Pharisees witnessed Christ's provision of food for thousands using what was intended just for one, they doubted God's presence. They asked, "What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You? What work will You do? Our fathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'"(John 6:30-31). Isn't that ironic?
God does not exist because people believe in him, nor does he exist to fulfill believer's plans. "I am who I am" he declared to Moses (Exodus 3:14). We are so much better off when we remember who God is and that he is more than just a cosmic jeannie in a bottle excising only to supply our whims. Focus on God, not what you think God should be doing. Then you won't miss a thing.
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Aug 20 06:18:57 2011 |
Today's Commentary
"Lead like Jesus" writes about the times when Jesus walked away or moved on: when the crowd tried to stone Him, when they tried to crown Him king, when people tried to provoke a quarrel with Him. There were other times that He chose to unexpectedly engage with people or change His travel plans. Why? He lived in accordance with God's call on His life, eliminating or adding whatever it took to accomplish the Father's purpose. What would it look like for you to do the same in your life? What things would you add, and what would you take away?
Many of us would not even think about altering our travel plans to be able to accommodate a chance to attend a worship service. We would not think about putting off the purchase of something we want in order to be able to give more to our church when there is a need. We would not think about taking on more responsibility in our service to God because we simply don't have the time, but we always seem to manage to say yes to overtime opportunities or other activities.
Christ knew that following God's call meant he had to make changes to his agenda in order to be obedient to God's desire for him. This was reflected not only in his sacrifice on the cross, but throughout his ministry. Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "Another reason I wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything." (II Corinthians 2:9) This should be our goal. Does it fit you?
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Aug 19 06:48:42 2011 |
Today's Commentary
There is a group of atheists who are arguing against the inclusion of the cross at the World Trade Center 9/11 memorial site. They are saying that the presence of the cross has caused them to suffer "dyspepsia, symptoms of depression, headaches, anxiety, and mental pain and anguish." Before you rise up in anger to this strange argument and call it ridiculous, consider the fact that their response might just be "biblical." Remember Paul's words: "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.' Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? But we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles." (I Corinthians 1:18-20; 23)
The symbol of the cross to those who don't believe is "sickening." Why? Well, it reminds them of their sin and what is necessary to deal with that sin, even though they vehemently deny the very existence of the One who provided the remedy for their sin. The cross is indeed a stumbling block to those who don't believe. We know differently and actually should pray for those who experience "dyspepsia" at the sight of the cross. If they do not find the cure for this ailment, they are going to suffer a more severe consequence.
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Aug 18 06:30:14 2011 |
Today's Commentary
We need to begin a concerted effort to pray for Somalia. Somalia is on the far east side of Africa - the country that sticks out like a horn into the Indian Ocean. Since 1991, there has been no centralized government. Rival tribal clans have fought back and forth trying to gain political control. Since 2006, the feared Islamist extremist group Al Shabab has waged a great effort to gain control. Al Shabab has control of southern Somalia and is firmly allied with Al Quaida. This group has made great inroads towards establishing itself as the reigning political power of the entire country.
Hunger is widespread. A recent famine in eastern Africa has left little resources for many countries, particularly Somalia. Intervention is sorely needed to prevent the deaths of 500,000 children on the verge of starvation. When you see such tremendous need, it is a little overwhelming and makes one feel helpless. At times like this, we need to remember the importance and the power of prayer. This is one thing that we can do. Another thing is to find a reputable donor agency and give towards humanitarian aid. Even this is being abused, but some aid is indeed breaking through. In the wake of such an overwhelming need, we need to do the best we can to break down the situation to determine how we might be of most benefit.
We may feel a little like Nehemiah did as he surveyed the ruins of the wall around Jerusalem and understood the daunting task that was before him. What did he do? First, he praye: "When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven." (Nehemiah 1:4) If you continue to read, you find he enlisted help from others, developed a plan to do as much as possible, and then set about the task of doing what he could. When we face a daunting task, we ask God for help, enlist the aid of others, develop a plan of what we can do, and do what we can to implement the plan. Let's pray for the people of east Africa. Let's do what we can.
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Aug 17 13:44:17 2011 |
Today's Commentary
We have an inner voice that warns us if we are going into territory we know we shouldn't - our conscience. Someone once wrote that our conscience is like an invisible fence used to mark the territory of a pet. The pet, usually a dog, wears a special collar and when approaching the "fence," actually a wire buried underneath the ground, the collar beeps to warn the pet of impending danger. If the pet ignores the beep, he receives an electrical shock. The thing about these systems is that sometimes the pet learns to endure the pain and escape because once beyond the fence, he is able to experience the "outside world." The problem with this is that there are potential dangers lurking there - the street that could mean death, mistreatment at the hands of others, no food. The fence was put there not just to keep the pet from disturbing others, but to protect the pet as well.
We often ignore our conscience the way a pet ignores the fence. We need to be aware that God has given us this inner voice to keep us from going into areas where we shouldn't and performing activities that we shouldn't. We need to obey our conscience and keep it clear. We need to have the same desire as Job when it comes to our conscience: "I vow by the living God, who has taken away my rights, by the Almighty who has embittered my soul. As long as I live, while I have breath from God, my lips will speak no evil, and my tongue will speak no lies. I will never concede that you are right; I will defend my integrity until I die. I will maintain my innocence without wavering. My conscience is clear for as long as I live."
Listen to your conscience! Keep your conscience clear! God put it there for a reason!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Aug 16 07:29:53 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Fiddler on the Roof has always been one of my favorite musical shows. It was made more special to me when my daughter played the female lead, Golde, during her senior year in high school. There are many memorable songs from the musical, one being Tradition. In this song, Tevye bemoans what he perceives as a slight to important practices and customs by the younger people in his town, including his daughters. Traditions are important. They can give us stability and assurance. They can help us sustain meaningful rituals. However, sometimes tradition supports the repitition of these rituals in a mindless, meaningless way. This is not beneficial. Fred Bauer gives an example of tradition sustaining a practice long after its usefulness had expired. In 1803, the British established a guard on the cliffs of Dover to keep a watch for an attack from the forces of Napolean. They did not abolish this practice until 1945. Napolean was not too much of a threat in 1945. What kept the practice alive? Tradition.
God has something to say about tradtion. God condemns the repetition of rituals in a mindless way. Even practices that he established are condemned when the people observing those practices lose sight of the importance and significance of the rituals. Listen to the words of Samuel in I Samuel 15:22, "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." God denounced Israel's sacrifices because they were simply going through the motions. This is the danger of tradition.
Tradition can inhibit needed change, can promote meaningless repetition of events just because "it's the way we have always done it," can stifle spiritual and emotional growth. We need to review our practices in our homes, our jobs, our associations, and certainly in our churches, on a regular basis to make sure that we are not letting traditions keep us from meaningful change and growth. In our personal lives, we need to examine our hearts and ask ourselves, "Why am I doing this?" Don't let tradition keep you from going forward and don't use tradition as the answer to the question, "why are you doing this in this way?" Tradition may have been good enough for Tevye, but you don't need to be another Tevye!
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Aug 15 07:09:33 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Perhaps you have seen the touching video of the American serviceman who surprised his wife at a minor league baseball game. Darla Harlow thought she was throwing out the first pitch to the catcher of the home team at the game in Mississippi. As the masked man approached her after catching the ball, she suddenly realized it was her husband, Major Mike Harlow, in the catcher's garb. Unbeknownst to her, he had arranged for leave and arranged for this event as a treat for is wife. Her response is priceless, as you can imagine. What an incredible surprise!
Do you like surprises? I do, that is, if it a good surprise such as the one Darla Harlow experienced. It doesn't even have to be on the same plane, as long as it is good. I don't care for surprises that aren't so good - such as an unexpected bill, or a health emergency, or some other type of bad news. Unexpected events of a negative nature are not pleasant. Imagine how those written about in Matthew 7:21-25 will feel: "Not everyone who says to me, `Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, `I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'" Now, that would be an unpleasant surprise, wouldn't it?
There are many who are going to have an unpleasant surprise at the end of the age. Thinking they are following the right way, they will find out that trying to do things their own way and not submitting to the way of Christ will prove detrimental. Don't be in this group. Don't think you have the answer to the question "How do you live forever?" if you are leaving Christ out of the solution, or are attempting to add something to what Christ has done for us to bring eternal life.
Don't think you have to play a guessing game as to what is necessary to have the assurance of eternal life. And don't try to invent your own way to inherit God's eternal life. The way is simple and it is set - we receive eternal life through accepting Christ. There is no surprise in this.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Aug 14 06:23:07 2011 |
Today's Commentary
On this day in 1945, Emperor Hirohito of Japan surrendered to the allied forces and ended World War II once and for all. Earlier in 1945 Germany had surrendered and ended the war in Europe. Thankfully, we have not experienced war of this magnitude since that time. Many people still living today would tell us that we would not want to see conflict of this nature again. Of course, there have been many wars since that time. The United States is involved in war right now. No one likes war, but we know we will not see war cease until the Prince of Peace steps in to usher in events that will lead to the cessation of all wars. That will indeed be a great victory. As great a victory as was celebrated on this day 66 years ago, a triumph is coming that will make VJ day pale in comparison.
We read about this great conquest in Revelation 20:7-10: "When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth--Gog and Magog--to gather them for battle. In number they are like the sand on the seashore. They marched across the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of God's people, the city he loves. But fire came down from heaven and devoured them. And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever." This will indeed be the final conflict period. Following this marvelous victory, there will be no more physical or spiritual warfare. Can you imagine that? It really is sort of hard to wrap you mind around this reality; but this is the hope we have because of the provision of God.
We who have hope in Christ anxiously await that future victory. I hope this includes you.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Aug 13 08:49:53 2011 |
Today's Commentary
H.G. Wells died on August 13, 1946. Wells is known for his many works of science fiction such as "The Time Machine" and "The Invisible Man," but probably best known for "The War of the Worlds." A reading of this work by Orson Welles on Mercury Theater of the Air in 1938 sparked an unprecedented panic. "New Jersey is being invaded by Martians" Welles read, and widespread confusion followed as many listeners thought they were actually hearing a news broadcast of a literal invasion by Martians. How could such a thing happen? How could reasonable people actually believe our planet was being attacked by aliens? Much of the confusion is because people failed to take into account the facts and seek to know the truth.
Paul recorded an event where there was a bit of a panic. He wrote: "Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you, brothers, not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by some prophecy, report or letter supposed to have come from us, saying that the day of the Lord has already come. Don't let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction." (II Thessalonians 2:1-3) Apparently the Thessalonians were a little fearful that they had missed Christ's coming because of false reports that were being circulated. We may ask "How could this happen?" in either of these situations.
Circumstances such as these occur when people either are not clear on the truth or for some reason fail to see the truth. Even today, people get fearful about "end time events" they believe are taking place now because they do not understand the truth. Unfortunately, there are many "prophets" leading gullible people down incorrect paths. Harold Camping had many who believed his message about the coming of Christ on a specific date. Well, that date came and went, and we still wait for Christ's return. Sometimes these paths of untruth even turn deadly - think Jim Jones, David Koresh, and Marshall Applewhite. These events underscore the need to know the truth. Even well-intentioned believers sometimes get a little fearful when they wrongly interpret events as being indicators of Christ's return. We need to know the truth and avoid meaningless speculation. We need to share the truth so others can avoid the "Welles complex." The Martians ARE NOT coming, but Jesus will. He will come when it is time for him to come. Seek to understand the scripture and avoid speculation.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Aug 12 07:20:10 2011 |
Today's Commentary
When I was young and first learning how to swim, I was fascinated by the feeling you have when you are in water. The buoyancy you experience in water is always a marvelous sensation. You feel lighter, you are able to do things you cannot do when you are on land and are experiencing the full effects of gravity, and you experience a sense of freedom you can't capture on land. I think the only scenario that would even be greater would be the sensation of weightlessness experienced by astronauts. I can only imagine how that must feel - in space you aren't even encumbered by the water and are really "weightless." Talk about an experience of freedom!
We may never have the opportunity to feel the physical sensation of freedom brought on by the weightlessness of space, but we can have the opportunity to experience the spiritual sensation of freedom brought on by the forgiveness of God. The burden of sin weighs us down and keeps us "earth bound." Because of sin we are tied down and encumbered. We struggle and we chafe against the bonds that keep us from enjoying freedom and enjoying the abundant life that God intends for us. What help is there for us grounded earthlings? You need look only to the provision of help given to us through the promise of Christ. In Christ there is forgiveness and love, acceptance and affirmation, encouragement and hope. Do you want to experience the sensation of weightlessness? Bring your burdens to the Lord. Accept his forgiveness and give him your life. Trust the Savior who gave his life for you. Think of the words of the song that are rooted in the truth of Scripture, "Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Jesus is always here." Christ's invitation to us it to "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) If you want to experience true weightlessness, put your life in the hands of Christ.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Aug 11 08:05:08 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I got a kick out of a television interview I saw recently with Green Bay Quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Aaron channeled his inner Allen Iverson when he made some comments about players' attitudes towards practice: "Practice? We're talking about practice? I mean really - practice?" This is more or less his response to a reporter's question concerning a coach's comment about practice. Rodgers used these words to mimic Allen Iverson who years earlier went on a rant during a news conference when asked about why he disdained practice. The point Iverson was trying to make was to him, it was the games that were significant, so why would you consider practice all that important? News flash: even for the pros, practice is important. In order to perform well in games, practice is something that, well, allow me to use the old maxim, "practice makes perfect."
We need to have this same attitude concerning what we do to grow in our Christian lives. We must avoid the "Iverson" principle when it comes to developing Christian character and maturity. Many of us have the thought that we can just show up for "game time" once or twice a week - church services, small groups, and other study times - and not worry about doing anything in the interim such as prayer, meditation, Bible reading, journaling, or other spiritual disciplines, and all will be well. This is an "Iversonism" and we must realize that aversion to disciplines that help us develop spiritually aside from attending weekly events is as detrimental to us as an athlete avoiding practice. It should not and it cannot be done if we are serious about our life before the Lord. Don't avoid spiritual workouts! Listen to the words of the psalmist: "Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long. . . My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises." (Psalm 119:97 & 148) Sounds like we need to "practice" in order to develop our spiritual character, more than once or twice a week, doesn't it?
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Aug 10 07:48:42 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I was going to write a really great devotional about something really important, but I forgot what it was. Well, actually, I didn't forget. What I wanted to write about was forgetfulness. We all experience forgetfulness and as so many people tell me, "it doesn't get any better." David Egner wrote about some research that listed the things we forget the most. They are: names (83%): where something is (60%); telephone numbers (57%); words (53%); what was said (49%); faces (42%); and whether you've just done something (38%).
As followers of Christ, we sometimes have a problem with forgetfulness. Problems arise, circumstances take over our thought processes, crises occur that choke out our dependence on God to help us with life situations. We fail to remember that we are his children. We forget his promises and his provision. We start trying to work things out without allowing God in. We face temptation on our own and try to solve difficult problems without relying upon God's wisdom and his awesome power.
Do not forget God and his marvelous provision on our behalf. He will stand up for you when you need encouragement and support. He will share with you out of his abundant resources. Remember the words of the psalmist Asaph, "I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Your ways, O God, are holy. What god is so great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples." (Psalm 77:11-14) Work on your forgetfulness by remembering God's faithfulness.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Aug 9 08:04:33 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The other day I read an interesting article about Albert Einstein. It seems that he was as accomplished violinist, but others had difficulty playing with him. Einstein, brilliant physicist and mathematician that he was, couldn't keep time. Can you believe that? He couldn't count! That is really hard to imagine.
We all have limitations. And sometimes we get so wrapped up in our limitations we fail to make strides in areas that are our strengths. Don't become so preoccupied with what you can't do that you hinder the development and exercise of your gifts! Don't use your limitations as an excuse not to do what you are able to do! An imminent philosopher (I'll let you guess who he was) once said, "A man's got to know his limitations." What he meant by this was that knowing your limitations allows you to focus on your strengths and not worry about what might hinder you.
Romans 12:6 says, "We have different gifts, according to the grace given us." Don't misappropriate your focus! Exercise your gifts, remember that everyone has limitations, and move on in the areas that need your expertise! This isn't nuclear physics - oh, sorry about that, I couldn't resist.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Aug 8 07:44:31 2011 |
Today's Commentary
There is a commercial on television advertising Bridgestone tires where a driver approaching a bridge swerves to miss a beaver that is dragging a tree limb across the road. The beaver waves appreciatively as the driver continues across the bridge. In the next scene, the driver is approaching the same bridge some time later, only this time he is doing so in a tremendous storm. Just before he gets to the bridge, a tree falls across the road. This is a good thing, as the bridge has been washed away by a flash flood. But why did the tree fall at just the right time? Well, the beaver had cut the tree down to protect his benefactor.
Now, I know this is sort of a nutty presentation, but I think it is a great illustration of the timeless concept presented by Christ in the Sermon on the Mount, "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 7:12) This has come to be known as "The Golden Rule," and as with so many other important truths, our familiarity with this teaching often diminishes the significance for us. We need to make sure this does not happen. We need to treat others well - with kindness, care, and love. We should do good things for others. Now, we shouldn't do good things with the expectation of being "repaid," we simply need to do good things for others and treat others well. The funny thing about that quirky commercial is the story is presented in such a way as to make you realize the driver really didn't expect anything back from the kindness he demonstrated when he swerved. Well, actually, the point was to show the superiority of the kind of tires the driver had. However, he is truly surprised when he sees what, or rather who, saved his life. We need to be givers, not expecting anything back. We need to be kind, even when we are not treated kindly in return (another principle Christ teaches elsewhere in the Sermon).
So, whether you swerve to save the life of a hapless creature, or decide to help someone with a task they can't accomplish on their own, do so gladly and freely, with no expectations of a return. Just don't be too surprised if you do find a tree in your path sometime.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Aug 7 06:24:41 2011 |
Today's Commentary
On August 7, 1801, 25,000 came to a meeting in Cane Ridge, Kentucky, to hear Baptist, Methodist, and Presbyterian ministers preach. According to American Minute, the largest town in the entire state of Kentucky at that time had a population of only 2,000. What was going on? This was part of what became known at the Second Great Awakening. This great revival started in the frontier of the fledgling United States and served to strengthen the spirits of those who were working to build a new country. Fresh from the conflict that led to American independence and on the verge of a yet unknown new conflict, this movement of the Spirit of God encouraged the citizens of this new country and bolstered their spirits. This movement fostered a tremendous growth of denominations, enhanced women's rights, and paved the way for the abolitionist movement. Reports from this meeting at Cane Ridge include the following, "The power of God seemed to shake the whole assembly...the cries of the distressed arose...No person seemed to wish to go home." No one wanted to go home? Oh, my, that would be different!
How did the Awakening start? Was it out of some great convocation of churches or the result of some evangelism committee? It began on the Kentucky frontier when James McGready and his small congregation agreed to "bind ourselves to observe the third Saturday of each month for one year as a day of fasting and prayer for the conversion of sinners in Logan County and throughout the world." The revival spread from there as this little church also agreed to "spend one half hour every Saturday evening, beginning at the setting of the sun, and one half hour every Sabbath morning at the rising of the sun in pleading with God to revive His work." (American Minute)
Have you ever thought what might happen in our time should some small group or church start praying? What about if it were our church? Most great revivals - the Great Awakening of the 18th century, the Second Great Awakening of the early 19th century, the Laymen's Prayer Revival of the mid-19th century, had small beginnings. They were not engineered from some mass movement or plan. They started because a group of people obeyed the leadership of the Holy Spirit. We are in a time when a revival would be a marvelous event. Let's obey the Spirit and see what happens. Let's agree with the psalmist who wrote, "Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation." (Psalm 85:6-7)
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Aug 6 08:39:11 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Having good counselors to help us in decision making is important. We need folks who will give us good advice and not just give us advice they think we want to hear. It is wise to have those who are experienced and can help us make decisions based on familiarity and practice, not just speculation or even a desire.
Reheboam found this out the hard way. After the death of Solomon, there was turmoil in the kingdom of Israel. Reheboam had a chance to alleviate the turmoil and unite the kingdom if he would do the right thing. You can read the entire story in I Kings 11 and 12, but here is a part of the events: "Then King Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. 'How would you advise me to answer these people?' he asked. They replied, 'If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants.' But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him. He asked them, 'What is your advice? How should we answer these people who say to me, `Lighten the yoke your father put on us'?' The young men who had grown up with him replied, Tell these people who have said to you, `Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but make our yoke lighter'--tell them, `My little finger is thicker than my father's waist. My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.' " Reheboam rejected the advice of wise and experienced counselors, followed the advice of young men who wanted to please him and the result was a divided kingdom.
When you are faced with a decision, especially a decision that has the potential to end or continue a conflict, make sure you have good advisors and have the wisdom to listen. Not doing so can have bad consequences. The path of experience can teach us much.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Aug 5 07:08:51 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Well, have you heard the latest? Brett Favre might be returning to football again this year after supposedly "retiring" after last season. Where did this news come from? Some remarks by the head coach of the Miami Dolphins were interpreted to mean that Favre might be invited to compete for a roster spot with the team this year. Of course, this is nothing more than speculation and rumor, but you know how gossip can spread!
You do know how gossip can spread, don't you? In the case of Favre's possible return, the gossip is relatively harmless, and there is no real threat to anyone and no one is likely to be hurt by all the rumors flying around. However, there are many instances where rumors flying around, gossip, can be very harmful. When baseless stories are spread, especially when they contain hurtful and mean comments about another, there is a problem. We need to do all we can to avoid getting caught up in the "gossip game." We need to avoid contributing to rumor mills and stand against the spread of untruth, especially when there is potential damage to someone's character and reputation.
The scripture tells us: "A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much." (Proverbs 20:19) Don't get caught in the rumor trap. Don't spread stories that you don't know to be true. Favre playing football is one thing - but playing the rumor game is something else. No one wins in this game.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Aug 4 07:01:01 2011 |
Today's Commentary
This past May Chris Staniforth, a 20 year-old British man, collapsed and died after a marathon X-Box gaming session that lasted for over 12 hours. He died from a deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot, in his leg. What led to the formation of the clot was his lack of physical activity caused by his gaming. The clot broke off and then blocked a major artery carrying blood to his lungs.
All of us need to be aware of the danger of inactivity to our physical well-being. We also need to be aware of the danger of inactivity to our spiritual well-being. We can become too sedentary in our spiritual lives. Our lack of spiritual exercise can create big problems for us. A failure to develop spiritual disciplines causes us to be vulnerable to many types of problems. Paul speaks of the need for spiritual exercise in I Corinthians 9:24-27, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
Sounds like we need to be spiritually active, doesn't it? Yes, we should. Even as physical inactivity can lead to problems, spiritual inactivity can bring about some real struggles. Turn off that X-Box every now and then! Give you body and your soul a work-out. The benefits will be evident.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Aug 3 07:37:40 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Well, today is my birthday. I am the "speed limit," well, what used to be the speed limit, so you can take a guess as to my age. Birthdays are interesting things. They provide you with a reason to celebrate and be the center of attention for a little while. Birthday parties are always nice and offer a chance for folks to get together. Those of us with birthdays can make the claim that we are the reason for celebration in August, as there are no official holidays this month.
As you get a little older, birthdays also provide some other benefits. Birthdays can serve as a reminder of how fast our lives are progressing. It can't be my birthday again, can it? Birthdays can offer us a time to reflect on what is going on in our lives, what has taken place, what we would like to see take place, and other considerations. Birthdays highlight relationships that we have. Our celebrations are usually with those with whom we have a relationship. Birthdays remind of our "links" with other people - people on whom we can rely and have a significant role in our lives.
As you think of this latter provision of birthdays, remember the "link" you have with God. David says in Psalm 22:10, "From birth I was cast upon you; from my mother's womb you have been my God." We can read later in Psalm 71:6, "From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother's womb. I will ever praise you."
If I had one birthday wish it would be that everyone who reads this have that link with God and are relying upon him. Would you like to give me a birthday present? Well, the best one you could give would be for you to give your life to the Father. That would be a really great gift for me, but it would be a better gift for you.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Aug 2 07:29:00 2011 |
Today's Commentary
John Ortberg writes, "Imagine picking your car up from the shop after a routine tune-up and the technician says, 'This car is in great shape. Clearly you have an automotive genius to take great care of your car.' Later that day, your brakes don't work. You find out you were out of brake fluid. You could have died. You go back to the shop, and you say, 'Why didn't you tell me?' The technician replies, 'Well, I didn't want you to feel bad. Plus, to be honest, I was afraid you might get upset with me. I want this to be a safe place where you feel loved and accepted.' You'd be furious! You'd say, 'I didn't come here for a little fantasy-based ego boost! When it comes to my car, I want the truth.'"
There are times we need to be truthful for the benefit of others, even if the truth is hard. There are times when being a good friend means confronting another because something needs to be addressed and a change needs to be made. This, of course, is not the easiest thing to do, but is necessary for the spiritual, emotional, and spiritual well-being of someone we love. Paul says in Ephesians 4:15, "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." There are times when we need to "speak the truth in love."
Speaking the truth in love first requires a situation where it is very obvious that an intervention is necessary. Is there really a problem that needs to be addressed? Speaking to others about their behavior or some other issue also requires self-examination. We need to look at our motives to make certain we are doing this as a genuine effort to help someone and because of our love for someone, not to put them down or to make ourselves look better. We don't go around looking for "problems" where we might "help." We are speaking of circumstances where the need to reach out to someone else almost grabs you by the neck and says "Do something." We also should seek spiritual discernment through prayer regarding what needs to be said and how we need to speak. Make sure you let the Holy Spirit be your guide when you seek to help.
An intervention of this type is a difficult thing. However, when you face a circumstance where the consequence described by Ortberg is a reality, truth is what is needed. When this is the case, speak the truth in love.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Aug 1 07:37:33 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I just spent a couple of very nice days with my youngest daughter as we went to visit her to see her new home. We were able to take in a movie on our visit. We saw "Cowboys and Aliens" on its opening day. I am a big fan of westerns and I am a big fan of science fiction, so, do you want to take a guess as to whether I enjoyed the movie or not?
Well, I did, but more for the storyline than for the "shoot 'em up" elements or the sci-fi elements. Of course, there were copious amounts of these included in the film but there was also something else. Now, I'm going to try and not reveal any big secrets here, but I am going to discuss an important movement in the film. In the film, we are introduced to groups of people who are in conflict with each other. Actually, this happens at more than one point throughout the film. These conflictual groups are drawn into an uneasy alliance when they realize they all have a greater common enemy. Now, I am not going to reveal who this greater common enemy is, but you can probably guess. As I reflected on this plot line, a thought came to me. This really is something that needs to happen in the church.
Often we find ourselves in conflict with other folks or another group in our churches. This is unfortunate and really not the way it should be. We need to take a lesson from "Cowboys and Aliens" and remind ourselves that we do have a greater common enemy. The only way we can prevail is to come together, unite with each other, and allow God to motivate and use us collectively as one person. We should not wait until too late to do this. This is such an important principle that Christ prayed for this the night before he was crucified. In his intercessory prayer recorded in John 17 we read, "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one:" (vss. 20-22)
When you find yourself in conflict with someone in the church, remember two things: Christ's prayer and your real enemy. See if this doesn't motivate you to do what you should to eliminate your conflict. And you shouldn't need to see "Cowboys and Aliens" to realize how important this could be.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Jul 31 06:55:29 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Frederick Barrett had eluded law enforcement for 32 years. He was convicted of murder in 1971 and sentenced to life imprisonment in a prison in Raifford, Florida. During a power outage in 1979, he escaped. He traveled to Hawaii, California, Tennessee and Maryland before eventually settling into a cabin in the mountains of Colorado. It was there that U.S. Marshals, posing as Forest Service firefighters, captured Barrett this past Wednesday. A spokesman said, "It's really, really difficult to find someone after more than 30 years." I would imagine so, but as this case shows, not impossible.
I cannot help but think of Numbers 32:23 as I reflect on this story, "Your sins will find you out." This is certainly a good example of this truth. Even after more than thirty years, Frederick Barrett was found and returned to face the punishment given to him by the Florida courts. In addition, he faced more criminal charges because the Marshals found marijuana growing in his cabin as well as a cache of weapons. That is indeed adding insult to injury, but it frankly is nothing more than what Barrett deserved on account of his crimes.
This story and the plain truth of scripture show us that you will not escape the consequence of your sin unless you deal with your sin. The wisest move would be to repent and seek forgiveness before God. Failure to do so will mean punishment. You will not escape. You cannot fool God. God knows who you are, where you are, and what you have done. Psalm 33 13-15 tells us, "From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth--he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do."
Are you running from something today? Are you hiding from someone? Do you really think you can get away with what you have done? You can't. Step into the light of God's forgiveness. Surrender to him who will freely release you when you repent of your wrongdoing. This is the only path of true freedom.
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jul 30 08:23:29 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Facing any hard choices today? Making decisions when all is going well, there are plenty of resources to help make the decision, and the result of the decision is important but not really critical is one thing. However, having to made a decision when there is a potential for conflict, unity is threatened, and the decision has great consequences is much more difficult. What helps when we face tough decisions?
Christ promised help for his followers for the times when hard decisions need to be made - "I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever--the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." (John 14:16-17) As we face tough decisions, we can ask for Spirit's help to discern the way that would be best. What decisions can the Spirit help you with today? |
Pastor Steve
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Fri Jul 29 07:39:50 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Many of us have unfinished projects laying around begging for closure. Some of us have more than others. Then there are those who can't seem to finish just about anything they start. That is another issue in and of itself. Of course, there are so many reasons and so many factors when we bring up the issue of finishing what you start. There are a number of famous projects that didn't get finished for one reason or another. What about Mozart's famous "Unfinished Symphony?" Then there is Da Vinci's "Gran Cavallo." Our one dollar bill is a perpetual reminder of an unfinished project: the Gilbert Stuart portrait of Washington found on our money is part of a painting of Washington never completed (actually by intention). Construction continues on a cathedral in Barcelona, Spain, that was started in 1882. The list goes on ad infinitum (I know, I used this word yesterday as well).
One person who always finishes what he starts is God. This truth should bring us hope and certainty, especially when we are uncertain about getting things done ourselves. Paul declares in Philippians 1:6, "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." What a hope! God will not leave us incomplete. God will not leave us undone. This is why Paul could declare elsewhere with confidence, "I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day." (II Timothy 1:12)
We may have trouble wrapping things up, but God doesn't. We have this assurance. God finishes what he starts.
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Jul 28 07:30:45 2011 |
Today's Commentary
One of the most controversial sports figures in history is the heavyweight boxer is Cassius Clay, perhaps better known by his acquired name of Muhammad Ali. Although the most controversial boxer in history, many have considered him one of the greatest boxers in history in any weight class, especially in the heavyweight class in which he competed. Because of his questionable stand against the Selective Service draft during the war in Viet Nam, he lost at least three years when he would have been at his prime.
Regardless of the controversy he created when he boxed, one has to have a little feeling of compassion for him now because of his current physical state. His movement is restricted, his speech is slurred, and his reflexes are almost non-existent. Most medical reports about his current health state his condition was brought upon by the sport he love and in which he excelled. The numerous blows to his head over the years have taken their toll and have caused a different life than what he might have enjoyed had been involved in a less violent activity as his life work. The question may be asked: was it worth it? This is something that could be and will be debated ad infinitum.
There are times in our lives when we are engaged in activities where we might be wise to ask the question: Is it worth it? This is especially the case if we are pursuing a questionable course of action or even a blatantly immoral or illicit activity where there can be no good consequence but for the moment is a source of enjoyment. One often wonders how David might have answered this question had this been asked after his affair with Bathsheba. Many times folks pursue activities that for a time bring pleasure, but could ultimately lead to pain, disgrace and often even death. Is it really worth it? In these situations, the answer is a resounding "no." Proverbs 10:23 tells us, "A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom." Display wisdom and give the correct answer to the question, "Is it worth it?"
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Jul 27 07:06:26 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The events recorded in Nehemiah 8 have always fascinated me. I encourage you to read this passage before you go any further in today's devotional. Here is a small excerpt, "So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law . . .Ezra opened the book. All the people could see him because he was standing above them; and as he opened it, the people all stood up." (8:1-3, 5)
I don't know if you kept track as you read, but let me point out some interesting observations. First, as the Torah was read in the presence of the people, all the people stood. Secondly, they stood for about five hours as the Torah was read ("from daybreak till noon"). Finally, "all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law." Wow. A scripture reading that went on for more than five hours with everyone standing and LISTENING. I would imagine there are a number of activities to which we would be willing to devote five hours of our time, but would Bible reading be one of them? My, there are so many things I could say about this. However, I want to simply make one application. From this time on, the people of Israel were known as the "People of the Book." Could this description fit us?
Wouldn't that be a wonderful testimonial to be known as the "People of the Book?" Of course, this presupposes that we actually are people of the Book. This decryption would indicate that we are indeed people who love God's Word and wish to know and follow it attentively. I hope this passage could describe us. I don't know how far I could get with a five hour Bible reading outside with everyone standing, but our devotion to His Word should be as great. The question is: How great is our devotion to God's Word? Think carefully before you give an answer.
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Jul 26 07:16:25 2011 |
Today's Commentary
What makes God happy? Have you ever thought about that? We can find some answers to this in the book of Psalms and in the book of Proverbs. Psalm 147:11 tells us that God delights in those who place their hope in him: "the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love." The Lord delights in the person who tries to live blameless before him and is obedient. Proverbs 11:20 tells us: "but he delights in those whose ways are blameless." A final lifestyle that delights God is a person who is truthful: "he delights in men who are truthful." (Proverbs 12:22)
Do you want to delight God? Follow the advice given in the scripture above. We want to do all we can to please him, and these are the things we can do. We read in all these passages how to delight God. I hope you love him enough that you want him to be delighted in how you live. If you do, make sure that you put your hope in him, you obey him, and you are truthful. These are the things that he finds delightful.
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Jul 25 07:24:55 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I have been getting an annoying message on my cell phone lately, "memory low - consider erasing some items to make more space," or something like that. I guess it is time to do this, or consider upgrading the phone. I haven't gotten a new phone for awhile, so maybe that will be the answer. I need more memory as the phone can't keep track of all I want it to remember.
This is one problem we will never have with God. God will never run low on memory when it comes to keeping track of us and what is going on in our lives. This is a very comforting thought. There will never be time when we go to him to ask him for help and get a "Sorry - memory low" response. His capacity for storing and helping is limitless. He will never run out of compassion and caring.
There seems to be only one area where we will see his memory have a lack of capacity - when it comes to dealing with our sin. When we confess our sin and seek forgiveness, only then do we find God being "forgetful." Hebrews 8:12 says, "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." When we deal with our sin through seeking God's forgiveness, he responds to us by not holding our sin against us.
I'm glad for God limitless availability in all circumstances and I am glad for his response to me when I confess my wrongdoing. It is because of his mercy that he chooses to display a "memory low" signal. It is only because of his great capacity to forgive that he displays a low capacity to remember.
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Jul 24 16:30:27 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I was watching a rerun of "Numbers" last night. I really enjoyed watching the David Krumholtz character solve crimes inexplicably through applying mathematical formulas. In the episode I was watching, Krumholtz was at the blackboard calculating away and his father, played by Judd Hirsch, walked in and said, "Here are some cookies and coffee. It seems like I spend half my life bringing you boys food."
When my children were growing up, I was always concerned about how they ate. I always wanted to make sure they were getting the right things so they would grow and develop the way they should. I loved cooking for my kids and watching them eat what I fixed. Now, there were many times what I fixed did not pass their palate sensibilities. And, of course, there were times when what I made was, well, let's just say condensed milk is not a good replacement for evaporated milk when you are making mashed potatoes. In spite of gaffes and misses, I still had one thing in mind - I wanted my girls to have something good to eat that would be beneficial for them.
We need to have this same concern for others when it comes to spiritual development. We should want to see that we get appropriate spiritual malnutrition, and we should be concerned that others get fed spiritually. When Christ spoke to Peter after Peter's return to fishing, he said, "Feed my lambs." (John 21:15 - 17) Christ wanted Peter to care for others and their well being. We need to be concerned about others and their spiritual well being. We need to offer each other chances to be fed spiritually so that we can grow and develop the way Christ wants. Do what Christ asks, and help feed others.
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jul 23 09:30:47 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Roger Sherman died on this date, July 23, in 1793. "Who," you may ask, "is Roger Sherman?" He is the only person who signed all four of America's founding documents - The Articles of Association, The Declaration of Independence, The United States Constitution, and The Articles of Confederation. He was a key figure in the drafting of the Constitution.
Sherman became a cobbler at age 19 to help support his family. He helped send two younger brothers to school to become clergymen. Later, after being asked some questions involving legal advice, he decided to become a lawyer. He went on to serve as a state senator, judge, and representative to the Continental Congress. According to American Minute, these words are inscribed on his tombstone, "He ever adorned the profession of Christianity which he made in youth and...died in the prospect of a blessed immortality."
Of all the significant things that could be said about Sherman, this is the most important - "the profession of Christianity which he made in youth." Nothing but this would ensure his eternal life. I think the statement "made in youth" is very relevant. So many studies show that as a person increases in age, the chance of a profession of Christ decreases. An article on the Barna Group website states, "Nearly half of all Americans who accept Jesus Christ as their savior do so before reaching the age of 13 (43%). Two out of three born again Christians (64%) made that commitment to Christ before their 18th birthday. One out of eight born again people (13%) made their profession of faith while 18 to 21 years old. Less than one out of every four born again Christians (23%) embraced Christ after their twenty-first birthday.".
This shows why it is important that we do what we can to reach young people. There is a reason that Solomon wrote, "Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, 'I find no pleasure in them.'" (Ecclesiastes 12:1) Let us never forget the importance of reaching young people with the news of the Gospel of Christ.
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Jul 22 07:51:43 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Many years ago I attended a drag race featuring some Top Fuel dragsters. The fuel used in Top Fuel racing is 90% nitromethane and 10% methanol. Please don't try to use this fuel in your family car to improve horsepower. Your car wouldn't last very long with this in the tank. Engines in the dragsters are specially constructed to use this mix and, as you would expect, the car goes really fast. Another property about the fuel mix is when it burns, you can't see the flames. That can be dangerous. I remember watching a driver fly out of a car and start swatting himself all over. At first, it looked a little comical until you realized that he was on fire and could have been seriously hurt had the pit crew not reacted as quickly as they did and extinguished the invisible blaze.
Someone mistakenly said once, "What you can't see can't hurt you." Whoever said this ignored a great deal of harmful things that cannot be seen. Bacteria and viruses are not detectable with the naked eye, yet can cause a great deal of harm. In the spiritual realm, we know that our adversary is invisible and can cause us great harm if we are not vigilant. Satan and his allies cannot be seen, yet we know they are there and are bent on our destruction. Ephesians 6:12 informs us: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
So how can you keep from being harmed by an unseen foe? Being aware that he is there is one help. Trusting in our powerful, yet invisible, Father is another. Paul proclaims trust in the invisible God in I Timothy 1:17, "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen." We depend upon our invisible God to help us against our invisible foe. Constantly lean upon him and declare your confidence in God's hand of protection. He will keep you from being harmed by Satan’s “invisible flames.”
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Jul 21 08:12:59 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The Scopes Monkey Trial ended on this date, July 21, in 1925. John Scopes, a high school teacher in Tennessee, was found guilty of teaching evolution in his biology classes. The prosecuting attorney was William Jennings Bryan, a three-time Democratic presidential hopeful, had served as a Colonel in the Spanish-American War and as a U.S. Representative from Nebraska and U.S. Secretary of State under
President Wilson. He edited the Omaha World Herald and founded The Commoner Newspaper. He died five days after the trial ended.
Bryan was a devoted Christian who delved the famed "Prince of Peace" speech. The speech was printed in its entirety in the New York Times on September 7, 1913. Here is the concluding paragraph, "Science has disclosed some of the machinery of the universe, but science has not yet revealed to us the great secret -the secret of life...If the Father deigns to touch with divine power the cold and pulseless heart of the buried acorn and to make it burst forth from its prison walls, will he leave neglected in the earth the soul of man, made in the image of his Creator?...The Gospel of the Prince of Peace gives us the only hope that the world has."
What an incredible statement from an elected individual. What a testimony of truth. Unfortunately, things have changed radically since that day in 1925 when Scopes was found guilty. We need more voices to proclaim the message Bryan delivered. Arguments against the existence and work of God will not ultimately prevail, but we still have a responsibility to proclaim God's plan to a people who need to hear God's plan. Earlier in his speech Bryan said, "One needs the inner strength which comes with the conscious presence of a personal God." This is the news we need to convey to others. We need to proclaim the message of I Samuel 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Let others know there is a God, and that he wants a relationship with us! (Notes about Bryan are from American Minute)
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Jul 20 07:05:53 2011 |
Today's Commentary
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, in 1888 a girl yawned continuously for 5 weeks. She must have been listening to a really boring preacher! Actually, no reason was given for this situation.
Yawning occurs when the brain needs oxygen. This is a little response we usually don't think much about, but is one of those little mechanisms God put within us that is really important and beneficial. Of course, yawning does occur when we are tired, bored or nervous. Sometimes we can stifle a yawn, but usually it comes on us so quickly that we open wide and let it happen.
Are you having to yawn spiritually because you aren't getting enough of what you need to keep from sighing? Do something about it! Get more involved in a Bible study, get more involved in your church, get more involved in God's Word, get more involved in service projects to help others. We sometimes blame others for our "bored" behavior, but usually the blame rests upon us. In I Corinthians 15:58, we are encouraged by Paul to be busy, "Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." Don't got around complaining "I'm bored!", get involved and quit your yawning!
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Jul 19 07:10:12 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I just read an interesting article about a house in Virginia that is valued at over two million dollars, yet is on the market for $656,000. Quite a discount! Why the big price cut? Well, the paint job is one reason, according to realtors. The external color scheme is atrocious in the estimation of these experts. However, the owner loves the paint job, and refuses to change regardless of the devaluation it is bringing to the property. Now, I really don't understand all that is going on here, but it goes to show that the external appearance of something needs to match the inner worth. We need to work to allow our inner beauty to show through. How we are outwardly should match what we are like on the inside. We should work to make sure that we are not being hypocritical in our actions and relationships. We should allow our outside to mirror our inside, and not be so enamored with outward appearance.
The Pharisees had a problem with this, and this is why Christ said: "'Listen and understand. What goes into a man's mouth does not make him unclean, but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him unclean.' Then the disciples came to him and asked, 'Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?' He replied, 'Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.'" (Matthew 15:11-14)
Make sure our priorities are correct, and that we are displaying outwardly how we are inwardly. Don't be so enamored with outward appearance that we forget to allow what people see to be who we really are. Make sure the real you comes through!
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Jul 18 07:05:43 2011 |
Today's Commentary
We were traveling home from vacation yesterday on I-64 when I saw a pick-up truck towing a trailer performing a U-turn at one of those places where a U-turn isn't legal. That wasn't good, as there is a reason for U-turns being illegal at those places. However, there are times when U-turns are legal. There are times when U-turns are not only legal, they are necessary. The key is to know when U-turns are the right thing to do.
There are times in life when we need to do a U-turn. The people of Israel provide a good example of someone who failed to recognize the necessity of performing a U-turn. We read in Jeremiah 5:23-24, "But these people have stubborn and rebellious hearts; they have turned aside and gone away. They do not say to themselves, `Let us fear the LORD our God, who gives autumn and spring rains in season, who assures us of the regular weeks of harvest.'" Israel needed to turn around and head the right direction. They needed to repent and follow the Lord. But they didn't heed the warnings and didn't see the need to make a U-turn. Instead, they kept on the path they were following. The result would not be good. God tells them in 5:15-17, "'O house of Israel,' declares the LORD, 'I am bringing a distant nation against you--an ancient and enduring nation, a people whose language you do not know, whose speech you do not understand. Their quivers are like an open grave; all of them are mighty warriors. They will devour your harvests and food, devour your sons and daughters; they will devour your flocks and herds, devour your vines and fig trees. With the sword they will destroy the fortified cities in which you trust.'"
Know when and where to make U-turns. They can be an important part of getting where we need to be.
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Jul 17 08:37:07 2011 |
Today's Commentary
When I was in college a professor made a mistake posting the final grade I received in his class. I went to speak with him about the mistake, and was assured that all would be taken of. However, when I checked after a period of time, the grade had not been changed. I went to speak to the professor and was assured all would be well. To make a long story short, it took a couple more trips to the professor and a trip to the dean of the college before action was taken to remedy the situation. I remember the dean's comments, "Well, don't be too hard on the professor. He is a good teacher, but he sometimes isn't all that dependable." Ouch. And I found out later that the dean was a good friend of the professor. He was also honest.
Do people say that about you? One of the most important characteristics we should manifest as believers is faithfulness. People need to know they can depend on us. We should be faithful in our lives before others and before God. We should show our heavenly Father that we are someone on whom he can depend. Paul lists faithfulness as one of the fruits of the spirit that needs to be cultivated (Galatians 5:22). He also writes in I Corinthians 4:2, "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." Christ spoke of the need for faithfulness on many occasions, one being his parable of the faithful servants in Luke 12:35 - 46.
Be faithful! Show that you are a person upon whom others can depend! I have not forgotten that professor. Can you guess why? Is this how you would like to be remembered?
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jul 16 06:09:44 2011 |
Today's Commentary
On this date in 1969 Apollo 11 blasted off carrying 3 men who would make history. I find it ironic that even as we celebrate the anniversary of the space flight that carried the first men to the moon, the last shuttle mission is now orbiting the earth. The Constellation program that was designed to take men back to the moon has been cancelled. The future of the "space" program is sort of, if you will pardon the pun, up in the air. It seems we have come just about as far as we can. I know great discoveries have been made through these ventures, but one thing it seems we have learned is, to put it in the words of that great philosopher Harry Callahan, "A man's got to know his limitations."
Indeed, one great lesson we have learned from the space program is actually the same lesson people learned upon building the tower of Babel - we can only go so far. We are limited and we are finite. This should drive us to another great truth - we are desperately dependent upon an infinite and limitless God. Countless billions have been spent on the exploration of space and we have just barely got off our planet. Now, I am not a foe of this effort; I think we have gained a great deal. However, we need to keep things in perspective and be reminded to not "get too big for out britches." What our exploratory efforts should do is remind us just how puny we are and just how big God is.
God did this for Job. We read God's remonstration of Job in Job 38:3 - 8, "Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone--while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy? Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb."
Don't make God have to do this for you. Don't make him have to put you in your place! We know who is in control and who put things where they are. Celebrate him for who he is and what he has done, and rejoice in your relationship with him!
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Jul 15 00:26:25 2011 |
Today's Commentary
One of the greatest concerns of the government of the United States during the Revolutionary War was the shortage of Bibles. Before the war, the British Government had stopped shipping copies of the King James Bible to the colonies. This led to obtaining 20,000 Bibles from other places such as Holland and Scotland. According to American Minute, there was a shortage of Bibles during the war and another shortage was experienced five years after the war that led to the authorization of the first printing of the Bible in the United States. On September 10, 1782, Robert Aitken, the publisher of the Pennsylvania Magazine, was authorized through a congressional resolution to publish copies of the King James Bible. Aitken, who died on July 15, 1805, printed thousands of copies for distribution in the United States.
American Minute reports the resolution: "Resolved, That the United States in Congress assembled highly approve the pious and laudable undertaking of Mr. Aitken, as subservient to the interest of religion, as well as an influence in the progress of arts in this country, and being satisfied from the above report of his care and accuracy in the execution of the work, they recommend this edition of the Bible to the inhabitants of the United States, and hereby authorize him to publish this recommendation. - Charles Thomson, Secretary." Copies of this Bible are with the American Bible Society's Museum of Biblical Art in New York, and Houston Baptist University's Dunham Bible Museum.
I am not quite sure the present Congress as a whole holds the Bible in such high esteem as did the first Congress. This, of course, is a shame. Can you imagine our current legislators getting involved in the printing of Bibles? Regardless of what our government thinks about the Scriptures, we know the place they should have in our lives. Thousands of years ago the psalmist declared, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." (119:105) We must never forget the place the Bible should have in our lives, regardless of governmental position and authority. Make sure you are not experiencing a "biblical shortage" in your life -put God's Word where it belongs!
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Jul 14 00:38:15 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I recently read an article written by Roxanne Roberts. She wrote about the commencement address given by author Paul Hawkins at the 2009 graduation ceremonies of Portland University. Referring to Ralph Waldo Emerson, Hawkins said, "If the stars only came out once every thousand years, no one would sleep that night, of course. The world would create new religions overnight. We would be ecstatic, delirious, made rapturous by the glory of God. Instead," Hawkins lamented, "the stars come out every night and we watch television."
Isn't this just like us? The wonders of God are all around us, and we just take them for granted. My family and I recently visited Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. There are a number of places that one might consider more spectacular when it comes to vistas, sights, and wonders of nature. However, this location still has many natural attractions, such as caves, views of the lake, and other marvelous things that it is a wonderful place to be. There are plenty of sights that make you aware that the world in which we live is a glorious part of the handiwork of God, and being surrounded by such beauty should be a constant reminder of the greatness and splendor of God. The stars come out every night, and we watch television.
I'm glad King David didn't watch television. If he had, we might not have received such gems as Psalm 19:1-4, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun." Look around and enjoy what you see - meditate on how it causes you to reflect on the character and nature of God. Do not take for granted your surroundings. God put them there for a purpose. Don't miss out on his marvelous work!
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Jul 13 08:14:24 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Sometimes we pray for something and then feel as if our prayers weren't answered because the result does not match our expectation. I remember praying for a young man who had been diagnosed as having Hodgkin's disease, a type of lymphoma. Yet, when he went to the hospital for treatment, no cancer could be found. I also prayed for uncle who had cancer. The cancer took his life within six months of the original diagnosis. Which of my prayers were answered? Well, both were. In both instances, God was glorified with what took place. The healing of the young man brought God glory, as did the death of my uncle, who left this world praising the Father who had given him the opportunity to come to faith and knew he would be living with him when he died.
The answer to prayer is not the fulfillment of our desire, but what brings glory to our Father. I John 5:14-15 tells us, "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask--we know that we have what we asked of him." The assurance here is that God does indeed hear us and will respond. He responds in accordance to his will. Our prayers need to be focused on asking that his will be done, even as Christ prayed the night he was betrayed for the Father's will to be done. Christ says to us in John 14:13, "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father." Christ tells us his intent is to glorify the Father. This should be our intent as well, and should inform us as we pray so that we pray for the outcome that will bring glory to our Father.
The focus of our prayers should not be the fulfillment of our expectations but the glory of God. We sometimes struggle with prayer we considered unanswered be cause the outcome did not match our expectations. We need to focus not on our expectations but on God's glory. This brings us true fellowship with God through our prayers.
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Jul 12 07:50:24 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I get a kick out of our attempts to try to "humanize" God. We try to think of God in terms of human behavior and characteristics. Now, while it is true that we see God doing "human" things in scripture, and sometimes being compared to humans in scripture, we need to be careful to not look at God in human terms or with expectations that we would normally have for another human. A title of an article in a recent issue of a Christian magazine was "God Behaving Badly." The question was asked, "Was the God of the Old Testament too angry, sexist and racist?" The writer was using a take off from a title of a current television show to bring attention to the topic. Now, while the author came to correct conclusions in this article, we really need to be careful to not try to put God's characteristics and his actions on the same plane as that of humans. We simply should not expect God to be human. He isn't, he is God, and we need to let him be God. When we put our human expectations on his actions and his character, we limit who he is and we will be led to frustration.
The dialogue between God and Moses in Exodus 3 should give us some insight as to how we should view God: Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, `The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, `What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?" God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: `I AM has sent me to you.' " (vss. 13-14)
Don't try to make God into something he is not. Don't try to bring him down to the level of man. God is who he is, and we need to remember this. Don't diminish his character and his power by trying to presuppose how he should act or be. Letting God be who he is helps us to be who we should be.
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Jul 11 08:33:46 2011 |
Today's Commentary
We sometimes wonder, "God, are you doing anything in my life?" Well, this morning I woke up and the sun was shining, which meant that the earth was rotating on its axis at just the right speed to give us night and day. Light from that far away object was interacting will all the beautiful plants I could see outside to allow for photosynthesis. The earth was just at the right tilt or else the world would probably have been flooded by now because of the melting poles. I didn't fly off the face of the planet, so that meant gravity was still working. Although I move more slowly now, I could tell from my interacting senses that coffee was brewing, and after awhile I concluded that rain was on the way as the sky started darkening. I also began to hear thunder in the distance. The symphony of senses and activities within my body were working as I could not only detect these things, but could tell my heart was still beating and my lungs were still working. In other words, a lot was going on that I sometimes take for granted. Considering these things should help us answer the question, "God, are you doing anything in my life?"
Don't miss what God is doing by ignoring the obvious. God is at work in all of these ways and in so many other things. Psalm 46:1-2 says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea," Don't let circumstances blind you to the presence and interaction of God. He is everywhere all the time and is involved all the time with his creation to bring about his purpose. So, indeed, he is doing a lot in your life. Just don't let things blind you to the obvious.
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Jul 10 10:11:28 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Peter's journey from fisherman to disciple is filled with fits and starts. His walk can be characterized by the saying, "Three steps forward, and two steps back." Of course, this describes most of our journeys along the pathway of faith. We make progress towards Christ-likeness through obedience, and then we mess up. The overriding factor in the case of Peter, that is, a factor that really couldn't be questioned at any time, even at the times of his failures, was his love for Christ. This may be the reason for Christ's questioning found in John 21 when he asks Peter three times, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" (vv. 15, 16 & 17) Some comment that Christ's questioning is a reminder of the three denials, as Christ asks the question about love three times. This may be true, but another consideration regarding the questioning relates to something within Peter that Christ wished to emphasize as a means of affirmation - Peter's love for him. Perhaps Christ was saying: "Peter, you indeed have goofed, but let me point out something about which there can be no doubt - your level of love for me."
Indeed, it is our love for Christ that should be strong and above question regardless of our shortcomings in other areas. We are prone to mistakes and unfaithfulness, but let us not be wishy washy when it comes to our love. Let our love for Christ be above question. It will be our love that will draw us to a place of obedience when we step outside the lines in our behavior. Love is the primary qualification for servant leaders. What are you doing to show your love for Christ?
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jul 9 00:10:04 2011 |
Today's Commentary
A certain firm has a TV ad with people calling out from different locations, "It's my money, and I need it now!" The firm specializes in "buying out" folks who have annuities or are receiving payments from a settlement or some other arrangement. They will give a lump sum in exchange for having future payments from the trust or annuity sent to them. Now, I hope I have been accurate in my explanation of this, as I am not totally familiar with how the process works, but I do know it is based on a simple character trait - impatience. We tend to not be willing to wait on things.
Habakkuk was an impatient prophet. He wrote, "How long, O LORD, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, 'Violence!' but you do not save?" (Habakkuk 1:2-3) Habakkuk wanted God to act, and act now. Ever been a Habakkuk? Sure you have - we all get impatient with God at times. We wonder why he doesn't act, or doesn't respond. Well, he will. Habakkuk learned that, and so must we. We must put things in God's hands, and as one dear saint said long ago, realize that "everything will be just fine." God told Habakkuk: "Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay." (2:2-3)
Trust God and remember his heart. Remember the answer "will certainly come and will not delay."
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Jul 8 08:19:55 2011 |
Today's Commentary
American Minute reports, "The Liberty Bell got its name from being rung JULY 8, 1776, to call the citizens of Philadelphia together to hear the Declaration of Independence read out loud for the first time. Made in England in 1752, this massive bell, weighing over 2000 pounds, was rung on each anniversary, until JULY 8, 1835, when it cracked tolling at the funeral of the famous Supreme Court Justice John Marshall. Inscribed on the Liberty Bell is a verse from the Old Testament Book of Leviticus, chapter 25, verse 10: 'Proclaim Liberty throughout the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.'"
I spoke on liberty this past Sunday at our church, using the text inscribed on the Liberty Bell. Here are three things to think about when you think of liberty. First, when we enjoy liberty we need to remember that someone ahead of you had to lay the ground work for you to enjoy what you have. Someone had to establish the principles leading to liberty, as God did in Leviticus 25. Sometimes liberty comes at a price. Patrick Henry said, "Give me liberty, or give me death." Many died to establish the United States as a free country. In order for us to enjoy freedom from sin, Christ gave his life.
A second principle about liberty is that with liberty comes responsibility. Being free doesn't mean we have the right to do what we want, it means we need to do what is right. Enjoying liberty means exercising the principles of helping others, acting right, and acknowledging that my rights end where another's rights begin. A final principle about liberty is that liberty means service. A young man I used to sing with many years ago wrote these lyrics, "Make me your servant so I can know true liberty." In our nation, we call our elected officials public servants. Christ speaks a great deal about service. He says in Matthew 20:28, "the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." We have been freed to serve. Deuteronomy 15 talks about a servant who asks his master to "pierce his ear" so that he can show he wants to be the master's servant the rest of his life.
We need to allow the Liberty Bell to ring loudly and strongly in our lives. Let's "Proclaim Liberty throughout the land unto all the inhabitants thereof."
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Jul 7 08:01:27 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Many of you know the signs of heart problems. Some of these signs are 1) neck, jaw and chest pain; 2) dizziness and fainting spells; and 3) indigestion or heartburn. These signs indicate possible problems and should not be ignored. To ignore them is not a good idea. They could be signs of a problem that could be fatal.
Sometimes a church can have signs of a "heart" problem. Too many "pains" can be a problem. We need to do the best we can to avoid being a pain. We can be a pain by having a wrong attitude, being discontent, or harboring bitterness because of some issue. "Dizziness" can be caused when we fail to promote biblical knowledge, spirituality, and godliness. Paul warns against spiritual and biblical immaturity in I Corinthians 3:1-3, "Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly--mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly." Spiritual malnutrition is a real problem, and can lead to detrimental circumstances. Finally, disharmony and a lack of fellowship can lead to "heartburn." We need to promote unity and togetherness in our church. A lack of unity and a welcoming spirit are signs of real heart problems in a church and need to be addressed. Developing caring and compassion in a church promotes a healthy heart.
Does your church suffer from heart disease? Are there any signs of heart problems? If there are, don't sit and do nothing, take steps to reverse the damage. Don't let the problem become fatal.
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Jul 6 06:05:38 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I came across the following article recently and thought I would share it with you. I have tried and tried to find the source, but I have been unable to do so. Christ tells us that we shouldn't worry and to leave our burdens in his hands. We read his words in Matthew 6:25-27, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" The following article addresses this issue:
"A young lady confidently walked around the room while leading and explaining stress management to an audience; with a raised glass of water, and everyone knew she was going to ask the ultimate questions, 'half empty or half full'; she fooled them and the question was 'How heavy is this glass of water?' Answers called out ranged from 8 oz to 20 oz. She replied, 'The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance. In each case it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.' She continued, 'and that's the way it is with stress. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on.'
'As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden-holding stress longer and better each time practiced. So, as early in the evening as you can, put all your burdens down. Don't carry them through the evening and into the night, pick them up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment. Relax, pick them up later after you've rested. Life is short. Enjoy it!'"
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Jul 5 08:20:37 2011 |
Today's Commentary
My sister-in-law and her husband visited us last week along with some other family members and friends. I mention my sister-in-law and her husband specifically because the last day they were here, they had car trouble. They got in there car Sunday morning and it refused to start. The car actually refused to do anything, which usually indicates a dead battery. They actually operated under that assumption and first tried to start the van by jumping it with another vehicle. That didn't work. They attached the battery to a charger. That didn't help either. We decided to pull the battery out of the car and go get it tested to see if the battery was bad. It was only about a year old, but batteries have been known to go bad sooner than that. We thought there must be something wrong with the battery since it didn't seem to be holding enough charge to get the van started.
The battery was taken out of the car and to an auto parts store to get tested. The tech checked the battery and, guess what? The battery was fine. The battery was fully charged with no indication of any problem. Huh? So what's the problem? A charged battery indicated there wasn't a problem with the battery, and more than likely indicated there wasn't a problem with the alternator, something else we suspected. These problems seemed to be ruled out. What could be the reason that the van wouldn't start? Was there a problem with the computer? Was another part of the electrical system defective? Well, before these other possibilities were investigated my son-in-law, the lead "detective" in this mystery, had noticed some corrosion on the battery terminals when he disconnected the battery. So, he decided to try something. He used a can of Coke to clean the terminals and the connectors. He reinstalled the battery, making sure all the connections were tight. My brother-in-law got in the van, turned the key, and - shazam! (with apologies to Gomer Pyle) - the van started!
In trying to solve the situation, our attention was focused on the "big fix." The "bigger issues" were captivating our attention with little thought given to some of the "smaller" factors that could be the cause of the problem. This is not really an isolated situation. Often we fail to see smaller problems because we are captivated by the bigger culprits. We need to be careful of this, and make sure we don't allow small problems to go unnoticed and unchecked. We need to make sure to take care of these smaller problems so they won't become bigger issues and cause real troubles. Had the little problem of corrosion around the terminals been taken care of earlier, a big headache would have been avoided. Thankfully, my family encountered this issue where it could be resolved with some effort without causing a dangerous situation.
When trying to solve a problem, don't get so enamored with the big issues that you forget to check the small details. Don't focus so much on bigger issues that smaller factors go undetected. Zechariah asks, "Who despises the day of small things?" (4:10) Don't overlook the small things!
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Jul 4 07:21:45 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Today we celebrate liberty. We use this date as the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence that stated we no longer wanted to be ruled by England. England didn't like this, and the skirmish that had already started escalated into all-out war. The Colonists prevailed and became the United States of America. It is good we have this holiday, and I hope we use it as a time of reflection and celebration of an absolutely incredible event. That colonial uprising led to the establishment of a country that would eventually become the most powerful political force on the planet. Of course, with this position comes great responsibility. That is the way it is with liberty - we must realize liberty comes at a price and to truly enjoy liberty we must understand the responsibility that comes with that liberty.
Patrick Henry understood the significance of liberty when he said, "Give me liberty, or give me death." He knew liberty came at a price, and came with responsibility. As citizens of the United States, let us never forget this, and let us never forget this as citizens of the Kingdom of God. John 8:32 says, "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Be glad for the liberty you have in Christ. Remember your freedom came with a price, and remember your responsibility in light of God's provision.
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Pastor Steve
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Sun Jul 3 06:24:28 2011 |
Today's Commentary
In 1991, Eric Clapton lost his 4-year-old son in a tragic accident. He fell out of an apartment window and died instantly. In response to this and as an outlet for his grief, Clapgton wrote "Tears in Heaven," a poignant ballad that reflects his struggle with the loss, yet also expresses hope in a future home where no tragic scenes will be present. In a television interview he said, "In a sense, it wasn't even a sad song. It was a song of belief. When it [says that] there will be no more tears in heaven, I think it's a song of optimism-of reunion."
This is is the hope of the believer - a home where there will no longer be any tears or grief. Recently I assisted with the funeral of a dear 95-year-old saint. She had not been in good health for years. Her death was not a surprise and was a release for her from this life to a new life with the Lord. Even with this knowledge, there was sadness and there were tears. We can't help it, even in the most obvious circumstances when death is a welcome release. We feel a sense of grief and loss even though we know better. I am glad God doesn't predicate our future on our feelings or our emotions, but on how we respond to what he has provided for us. As a result, we have a future that looks like this, "'Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.' He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!' Then he said, 'Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.'" (Revelation 21:3-5)
This is our hope if we know Christ. For children of faith, indeed there will be no tears in heaven.
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jul 2 06:52:39 2011 |
Today's Commentary
The headlines read, "Errant Golf Shot Saves Man's Life." How could taking a golf ball off the side of your head save your life? Well, when Chris Logan went to the hospital to get checked out after being hit in the head by an errant shot from the driver of PGA tour professional Sean O'Hair, doctors found more than what they expected. Actually, Logan was not seriously injured by the golf ball that hit him in the right temple, but he could be killed by what was found lurking in his neck - a malignant thyroid tumor. The tumor was removed within weeks after being discovered and, one year later, Logan is doing well. The only problem now for Logan is taking a ribbing from fellow caddies who kid him about being struck down by what he had spent countless hours trying to avoid.
Being hit in the head by a golf ball is not good, but having one's life saved as a result of that "accident" is really good. I know some of you reading this could add your story about how an accident or a bad event led to a beneficial discovery. I know personally at least three individuals with stories similar to Logan's. We need to try to keep these incidents in mind when we experience bad situations. I realize not every bad experience may have this type of "silver lining," but many do. Sometimes the positive that can come out of a negative occurrence might not be so obvious. In addition, what we can learn or how we can benefit from a bad circumstance may not be evident right away. We need to keep this in mind when we are going through a difficult time. Try to hold on the perspective that what we are experiencing is going to lead to a positive outcome.
Despite all the advice otherwise, Job held on to this belief through his ordeal. He continued to exercise faith in God and kept in mind that the outcome of his trial was in God's hands. He said, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes--I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!" (Job19:25-27)
When faced with a difficult trial, continue to trust God for the outcome and realize what you are experiencing can lead to a greater good, even if that greater good is not readily apparent. A golf ball to the head was not a good thing, but Chris Logan certainly was glad he was "beaned."
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Pastor Steve
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Fri Jul 1 07:19:43 2011 |
Today's Commentary
When you look through a window, what do you see? Do you see just the wood, metal and glass of the window, or do you look through the window to see what lies beyond? Most likely, you are looking beyond the window to see what lies beyond. That is the purpose of the window - to allow you to see what lies outside or inside the window, to let light in, and to enhance the appearance and function of the structure where the window is found. A window is there not to call attention to itself but to enhance the experience of those who encounter the window. Now, folks do like to have attractive windows, and that is all well and good. But is a window doesn't do what a window is supposed to do (see above description), then the window isn't effective as a window.
As followers of Christ, we need to put ourselves in the place of a window. We must remember that we exist not to call attention to ourselves, but to enhance others' view of what lies beyond - our marvelous Savior and how a relationship with him should appear. We should point others to him and allow others to see him. If a window obstructs one's view of the marvelous vistas that lie outside, the window is not designed properly. When obstruct others' view of the Savior, we are not performing according to our design. Galatians 2:20 says, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." Since this is true, let's make sure we are a good window that allows others to see Christ, not us.
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Pastor Steve
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Thu Jun 30 07:15:45 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Making his way to his bedroom, the little boy walked by his mother with a rather unusual bump under his clothing. Mom asked, "Billy, what do you have under your shirt?" "Nothing, Mom," was the reply. Well, upon further inspection, Mom found a pair of scissors that had been banned because of an earlier act of "redecorating." Mom had to stifle her laughter, but she also needed to exercise some appropriate discipline.
Why do we learn the art of deception at such a young age? Unfortunately, this is part of who we are because of our sin. We do things that are wrong, and then we attempt to cover them up as an act of self-preservation or simply because we don't want to look bad in the eyes of others. We do our best to conceal our faults and our sin, and we may be successful with some folks. However, we cannot fool everyone all of the time, and we certainly never fool God. God always sees the lumps.
This was a characteristic the Abraham, the "Father of Faith," carried with him when he left Ur of the Chaldees to follow God's plan for him to resettle in a land of promise. Along the way, faithful Abraham showed his dark side when he told Pharaoh that his wife Sarai was actually his sister because he feared Pharaoh’s actions against him. Abraham's deception was discovered, and he was expelled from Egypt. What is ironic is that he repeated this deception with Abimelech, King of Gerar. We read in Genesis 20:1-2, "Now Abraham moved on from there into the region of the Negev and lived between Kadesh and Shur. For a while he stayed in Gerar, and there Abraham said of his wife Sarah, 'She is my sister.' Then Abimelech king of Gerar sent for Sarah and took her." Once again, the deception was discovered and Abraham had to go before the Lord and repent to avert the consequences that God had prepared to bring upon Abimelech. After the repentance and after the deception was cleared away, a positive relationship developed between Abraham and Abimelech. Later, God blessed Abraham and Sarah by allowing Sarah to conceive (21:1).
Beware of our tendency to sin and cover up, and realize the consequences you face when you practice deception. God has so many good things for us and will bless us abundantly when we deal with him in truth. Deception will only lead to dire results.
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Pastor Steve
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Wed Jun 29 07:39:13 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Heroes are people who respond to a period of great duress in a strong and aggressive way to prevent a wrong from taking place or to do what is right. Hebrews 11 records the names of several people we might consider heroes because of the way they responded to negative circumstances and made a real difference. A common element these people shared was their faith. This is mentioned several times throughout the chapter. By faith these people made a difference in their lives and in the lives of those around them. They had a profound relationship with God that drove them to act in a way they knew was in line with who they were as a child of God in spite of whatever else they experienced or encountered . What is really compelling about this chapter is that as we look at those who are mentioned, we know what is written about them includes their failures as well as their successes. We see the bad and the good in their character and their actions. This is encouraging because we see that heroes are normal people that neither live trouble-free lives nor are perfect in any way.
So, in other words, you can be a hero. Now, you really should not seek to be a hero, but you should realize that you should seek to live faithfully. As you do, you will find yourselves at times called upon to respond in an unusual way in a difficult situation. God calls us to live by faith and realize that at times our faith will be tested. Our focus should be upon our life before God and following him, knowing that he will not be all that far ahead and is committed to leading you in the right path. Hebrews 11:1-2 says, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for." Follow the path of a hero - follow the path of faith.
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Pastor Steve
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Tue Jun 28 07:02:28 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I just finished watching an episode of "ICarly" with my nephew. I've never watched this show before. It isn't the kind of show a 54 year old would watch on your own without a younger child around. So, I'm glad my nephew is here to give me an excuse to watch some "younger" shows. In this particular episode, the "ICarly" girls (Samantha and, of course, Carly) entered into a contract to promote a certain kind of sports shoes. Then, they found out the shoes were defective. The problem was they couldn't say anything negative about the shoes because of the contract they had signed. So, they found ways to show the "negatives" in a "positive" way. For example, the shoes could burst into flame if they were struck too hard. The girls demonstrated this, pointing out the problem by saying, "This is a great way to roast hot dogs."
We sometimes find ourselves in situations where we need to point out some "negative" things about something or someone. There are times we need to speak the truth in love and help others with some constructive criticism (Zechariah 8:16). At these times, we need to realize the importance of pointing out the negatives in a positive way. We need to realize the importance of candor, but do so in a way so as to build each other up, not tear each other down. There is such a thing as saying the right thing in the wrong way. Do your best to avoid this. Paul encourages us in Galatians 6:1- 5, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load."
Confrontation and correction are necessary. There are times we do others an injustice by not speaking up and helping them with something that needs to be changed. Just remember to use liberal amounts of grace when called upon to correct.
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Pastor Steve
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Mon Jun 27 06:23:37 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Helen Keller was born on the day, June 27, in 1880. At the age of 7, her parents enrolled her in Perkins Institute for the Blind in Boston upon the recommendation of Alexander Graham Bell. She had lost her vision and her hearing because of an illness she suffered at the age of 2. The teacher who was assigned to her was Anne Sullivan. Anne worked with her patiently and diligently until Helen finally was able to communicate enough to begin learning about language and speech. The story of Helen Keller is a remarkable tale of perseverance and struggle on the part of both Keller and her teacher. Instead of spending her life in silence and seclusion, she was able to learn Braille, write books, teach, and many other activities.
Helen Keller wrote: "The Bible is one mighty representative of the whole spiritual life of humanity. I thank God for my handicaps, for, through them, I have found myself, my work, and my God." Helen Keller concluded: "Four things to learn in life: To think clearly without hurry...To love everybody sincerely...To act in everything with the highest motives...To trust God unhesitatingly." What an incredible testimony from one who could easily have lived her life in solitude and bitterness.
We have choices when we face limitations that cause us to struggle more than others to attain goals and dreams. Look at these limitations in the same way as did Keller - opportunities to develop a more intimate relationship with him and a more complete understanding of yourself. We need to have the attitude of trust expressed by David in Psalm 13:5 & 6: "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me." Indeed, he has, so let your life reflect his goodness in spite of your struggle.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Jun 26 06:24:35 2011 |
Today's Commentary
As believers, we have to be careful about doing the right things in the wrong way, or at the wrong time. There are disciplines and activities we engage in as believers that we know are important. At times we take great pains to preserve our rights to read our Bibles, pray, speak openly of Christ, and other spiritual activities. However, our zeal and our pursuit of our ability to do these things can sometimes lead to situations where what we do is actually detrimental to the cause of Christ.
Richard de Haan writes about a serviceman who was disciplined for reading his Bible. Now, when you read that statement, what was your first reaction? Perhaps you reacted with indignation, "How can they prevent a serviceman from reading his Bible? He has the right to do so!" I certainly agree with this, but the full details of the situation are that he was reading his Bible while he was supposed to be on guard duty. He said, "Sometimes I get bored on the job. Reading the Bible helps me to keep focused." Well, maybe, but his first priority as a sentry was to keep focused on his surroundings. He could have been in a circumstance where lives depended upon his faithful discharge of his duties as a sentry. It was against regulations to read, or doing anything else, that would be distracting while on duty.
Reading the Bible is important, but the soldier's insubordination actually brought reproach on the cause of Christ rather that furthering his message. Be wise as you live your life before others. Make sure you are doing the right thing in the right way. Christ encourages his followers to use their common sense when he said, "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." (Matthew 10:16) Let's follow his advice in order to promote his message.
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Pastor Steve
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Sat Jun 25 09:49:29 2011 |
Today's Commentary
I wrote yesterday that God will give us victory when we stand for him amidst the moral corruption and decay of society. An example of this is found in the on-going story of Hezekiah, a king who stood for God and turned his people back towards God. A great test of Hezekiah's resolve came about when Sennacherib, the powerful Assyrian leader, attacked Jerusalem. Breathing threats and boasting about his prior conquests, Sennacherib posed a great threat to the people. However, Hezekiah did not waver in his faithfulness. He took the letter from Sennacherib, filled with threats and promises of violence, to the temple. There, he spread the letter out before the Lord and prayed, "Now, O LORD our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all kingdoms on earth may know that you alone, O LORD, are God." (II Kings 19:19)
God's answer to Hezekiah was lengthy and firm: He would indeed deliver the people and take care of the threat to their existence. We read in II Kings 19:35-36, "That night the angel of the LORD went out and put to death a hundred and eighty-five thousand men in the Assyrian camp. When the people got up the next morning--there were all the dead bodies! So Sennacherib king of Assyria broke camp and withdrew. He returned to Nineveh and stayed there." I don't see God doing anything like this for Hezekiah's father, Ahaz, during his evil reign. God accomplished this victory because of the faithfulness of Hezekiah and his willingness to stand firm in the face of a tremendous threat. The result was a defeated Sennacherib, the first loss he had ever experienced.
God will give you victory as you stand for him. Don't use the apparent strength of the threat against you as an excuse to not do what is right. He will be there for you.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Fri Jun 24 07:14:49 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Sometimes it is hard to take a moral stand with all the corruption and the disintegration of society that is taking place around us. Continuing to stand firm and not be tainted by changing values and mores demands that we exercise constant vigilance and care. At times we may feel tempted to throw up our hands and say, "What's the use?", but realize that your stand is important and you no doubt are having an influence on others that you don't even know about.
Hezekiah was a person who stood firm in spite of the moral decline in society. He was the son of the wicked king Ahaz who had led Judah down a path of idolatry and moral corruption. Hezekiah succeeded his father when he was 25 and immediately set about to make changes. What he did might not have been very popular at the time, but it was the right thing to do. II Kings 18:5-7 tells us: "Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him. He held fast to the LORD and did not cease to follow him; he kept the commands the LORD had given Moses. And the LORD was with him; he was successful in whatever he undertook." He broke from political alliances that his father had established, he tore down idols that had been built, and he even destroyed the bronze serpent made my Moses in the wilderness because under his father the people had worshipped the snake, giving it the name of Nehushtan (II Kings 18:4). This displeased many people, but Hezekiah did it anyway, and he experienced many victories because of his stand.
One might say, "Well, that was easy for Hezekiah to do, he was king!" Don't forget why he had the courage to make such sweeping reforms - he realized the basis of his authority was not his own kingship, but his relationship to God. We have the same relationship, and it will continue to remain strong as we continue to struggle against the influence of society that calls us to walk away from God. Heed the words of the Apostle Paul and "Be strong in the Lord, and in his mighty power." (Ephesians 6:10) When we do this, we will experience victory in our lives.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Thu Jun 23 06:44:01 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Computers are fascinating objects. I am not exactly computer literate, but I am not exactly illiterate either. I do a lot of work on the computer, including typing, editing, and posting my daily devotionals. However, if I am asked exactly how a computer works and does what it does, I would be at a loss. I do understand that when my computer is on, it does more things than just what I am currently doing with it. For example, I am now writing this devotional. Behind the scenes, the computer is running more applications than just what I see as the words appear when I type them. I am told this is a good thing for the most part, such as the antivirus program that is running to catch any "bugs" that might harm the computer. Sometimes this isn't so good, as there are applications running that aren't really necessary and slow down the performance of the computer. I try to limit these and turn some of these off, if I know how.
The thought of an application running undetected behind the scenes reminds me of one of my favorite verses - Romans 8:26-27: "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will." What these lovely little verses tell us is that as followers of Christ, we have the Holy Spirit at work in our lives at all times. We don't know that he is there as he is undetected in his ministry. We can't see him, but he is still there. Jesus promised the apostles the presence of the Holy Spirit. We read in John 15:26, "When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me." The Holy Spirit is here, and he does things for us that we don't even see. In the scripture from Romans we read that he intercedes for us at times when we don't have clue how we should pray for ourselves. He intercedes for us "in accordance for God's will." This is definitely an "app" I want working behind the scenes on my behalf.
Take time to thank the Spirit for his ministry on your behalf. We really don't know how much he does, and we really don't know how much we would miss his ministry. I don't want to find out about that. Just like the computer, I don't understand all of this, I am just thankful the Holy Spirit is there.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Wed Jun 22 06:57:06 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Have you ever sprained your ankle? Sprains can be quite painful, although we sometimes don't take them seriously enough. We need to treat sprains with RICE - rest, ice, compression and elevation. Not treating them correctly can lead to further problems, even down the road a little bit, as not allowing the ankle to heal properly can make it more susceptible to future problems.
We experience spiritual hurts as well - injuries brought on by our failure to oversee our spiritual lives, a wrongdoing that doesn't appear to be all that grievous, or a lack of care of our character. These seemingly minor things can become big problems if not allowed to heal properly through the proper administration of care, or RICE - repentance, invocation of God's help, care for our growth, and eliminating wrong behavior. Sometimes we face discouragement because of hurts we have received because of the error of others. We need healing from these wounds as well that involves allowing our Father to elevate us above our experience and cure the wound.
Jeremiah wrote, "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people?" (8:22) Yes, there is balm in Gilead, if we allow God to bring healing to us. If we allow him to accomplish in our lives the work he needs to do, he will bring healing. A song inspired by Jeremiah 8:22 goes, "There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole; There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul. Some times I feel discouraged, and think my work’s in vain, but then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again." Take the time to allow your wounds to heal. You will be stronger than before if you do, and be more effective in your ministry in Christ.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Tue Jun 21 07:02:40 2011 |
Today's Commentary
As believers in Christ there are two groups of people with whom we would do well to develop relationships. We should develop relationships with those who can serve as our mentors; who would be willing to help us in our struggle and our faith development. Another group is people with whom we could serve as a mentor. We need the advice and help of those who are wiser to help us make good choices and help us grow in our walk with the Lord. We also need to commit to sharing that which we learn with others who are eager to grow in faith. We should take the time and accept the responsibility for our own spiritual development, but we also need to be concerned with the spiritual development of others. We should be willing to invest ourselves in the lives of others, whether they are our teachers or the ones whom we have the opportunity to teach. We see an example of this in the life of Jesus and the ones he chose to disciple. He gave us a pattern that we often ignore in our churches and in our lives, and we do so to our detriment.
We read in Luke 6:12-13, "One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles." We sometimes fail to see the significance of what Christ did in spending time developing the twelve for leadership in the church. Obviously, there were unique aspects of their relationship that we cannot emulate, but we still should look at their interaction as a model for us in our discipleship today.
Take time to spend with others who can help you in your growth as follower of Christ. Commit yourself to others to help them grow in their faith in Christ. This is the pattern for discipleship and we would do nothing but benefit if we are wise enough to not only follow Christ's teachings but his example as well.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Mon Jun 20 07:06:06 2011 |
Today's Commentary
William Carey was a pioneering missionary who lived in the late 18th century and early 19th century. Perhaps you have heard of him. If you haven't, it would be worth your time to get a copy of a biography of him and read it. Carey went to Calcutta, India, actually to a part of India that differed from the wishes of his sponsoring agency There, he had a number of setbacks. A fire in the building containing materials related to his Bengali translation of the New Testament caught fire and destroyed years of work. He endured a great deal of sickness. Seven years of ministry went by before he saw his first convert. He lost two wives to sickness. Yet he never gave up. His perseverance led to many converts, a complete translation of the Scripture in the Bengali language as well as 40 more dialects, the founding of more than 100 schools, and the establishment of many churches in the Indian state of Bengal.
Are you facing some daunting circumstances? Have you experienced some significant setbacks? Isaiah was a prophet who can relate to these situations. God asked him to speak to a people who would not be all that responsive. We read of this in Isaiah 6:6-9, "Go and tell this people: `Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed." Isaiah did not see many things that one could consider to be "measurable indications of success." However, he was indeed successful. Why? Because he, as did William Carey, remained faithful despite profound setbacks.
We must remember that what God sees as success in our lives is our continued faithfulness. Often we may feel like giving up because we don't see "success." Our faithfulness is what God desires from us. We must persevere in our efforts on behalf of our Savior, and leave the results in his hands. Don't give up - remain faithful. God will take care of the rest.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sun Jun 19 07:53:51 2011 |
Today's Commentary
Today is Father's Day - a day set aside to honor our fathers and fatherhood. The scripture says a great deal about fathers and, of course, one of the ways God is portrayed in scripture is as our Father.
Fathers have an incredibly important role in bringing up children. Fathers are to be an example to their children. Joshua stood if front of the people as declared himself and example of service. We read in Joshua 24:15, "But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve. . .But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Fathers need to be a good example for their children. Fathers also need to be an encourager of their children. In Ephesians 6:4, Paul tells fathers, "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." Fathers are to encourage their children and teach them well. Finally, Fathers are to be emissaries for their children. They are to relate to them things about God and his ways, and realize that what children feel and think about God is based upon what they feel and think about their father. God is called our Father in scripture, and compares his role to earthly fathers in Proverbs 3:11 & 12, "My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."
Fathers, enjoy your day and enjoy your family. Remember your role in your family and be sure to do your best as you bring up in your children in the ways of the Lord.
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Pastor Steve
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| Date: |
Sat Jun 18 07:46:16 2011 |
Today's Commentary
There are natural laws in our world that we sometimes don't think much about, but if we encounter a situation where we might be in danger of violating the natural law, we know there will be consequences and we avoid putting the law to the test. For example, we probably don't think much about gravity, but if we are in a situation where we are in danger of violating th
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