No this isn’t my last column. At least I don’t think so.
However, since it’s the end of the year, this seems like a good time to reflect and ponder life.
Do you ever think about how short your life is? How every year seems to go by a little faster than the last one? Try to really THINK about it. Not just notice it and comment about it.
It’s good to pause and think about life’s brevity. To consider life’s end once in a while. It helps us see life as it really is and to make needed changes in our lives.
I enjoy talking with people about spiritual things. Often I’ll ask them a question such as, “When you die, what do you think you’ll find on the other side? What’s the final reality?”
It surprises me to hear some say, “I haven’t given it much thought.” Really? How could you not think about the most certain experience in the world?
“Now hold it just a minute,” I can hear someone say. “Isn’t all this talk a little morbid?”
Only if you think ignorance is bliss.
Take a minute and do the math. A man born in America today will live on average to age 75. A woman to age 80. Then what happens? They die and go somewhere forever.
So if we subtract 75 or 80 years from forever it equals—forever! And as they say, “Forever is a long, long time.”
People spend their lives planning and preparing for retirement. And how long does it last? Fifteen to twenty years? Or maybe thirty--if they’re blessed with good health and long life?
And remember--there’s no guarantee they’ll even make it to retirement!
But everyone is guaranteed to die. Last time I checked, no one exits planet earth alive.
Because of this fact of life, the Bible’s advice to us is, “Prepare to meet your God.”
Now the Bible doesn’t tell us that to frighten or scare us. The point is to encourage us to push the “Pause” button on our busy lives and think about what happens when life’s movie ends.
Listen to the wisdom of God’s Word: “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the dust returns to the ground it came from and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”
According to the Bible there is no reincarnation, no purgatory, and no second chances. Jesus clearly taught that eternity holds just two options: a place of delight and adventure the Bible calls heaven and a place of eternal punishment Jesus called hell.
To be sure we don’t miss this fact the Bible says, “Man is destined to die once and after that to face judgment.” That’s the facts straight up. No sugar coating.
The good news is that God made it possible to spend forever with him. Through Jesus’ death on the cross, God offers forgiveness and peace to all who come to him through faith in Christ.
Jesus came to bring new life now and eternal life later to everyone. God’s offer is not just for Jews or Christians. It’s for everyone regardless of his or her religion.
The angel who announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds said, “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for ALL THE PEOPLE. Today in the City of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord.”
A New Year’s resolution can help change a habit. But Jesus Christ offers a better life—both now and forever. Faith in him brings us peace with God and can help us be at peace with others.
Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Because Jesus came we can follow him to our eternal home. And that’s final.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Gift Exchange
Do you exchange gifts for Christmas? Many families do.
In a gift exchange you give a present to someone else and they give one to you. Some groups do a “White Elephant” gift exchange with funny or unusual gifts.
As the Christmas season rushes to a close, many people will feel pressured to “keep the Christmas Spirit” and buy gifts. Too often they buy unwanted gifts for people they don’t like.
Well hold on just a minute! Before getting all stressed out, stop and ponder the true meaning of the first Christmas more than 2000 years ago.
That year there was just one gift. There was no Christmas tree, no lights and no candy. Santa Claus and his reindeer hadn’t even been thought of yet.
For the first Christmas, God gave and man received. It was the best gift God could possibly give. There was no pretty wrapping paper or colorful ribbon. Instead God’s gift was wrapped in a blanket and placed in a feeding trough—a manger.
The first Christmas gift was a baby named Jesus.
Strange as it may seem, the gift became even more valuable after he died and rose again. Why? Because the gift was not just a baby. It was someone who became the Savior of the world.
When Jesus died on the cross, the Bible says he paid the full penalty for our sin. As a result, our sins can be forgiven and we can become children of God. Forgiveness is God’s gift to us.
To receive God’s gift we must welcome Jesus Christ into our lives. Through him we can have peace with God and eternal life. When we receive him by faith as our Savior and follow him as our Lord we get the only gift that really keeps on giving. Forever.
That’s why we celebrate Christmas and the birth of Jesus. Year after year people exchange gifts in memory of that first Christmas gift.
Sadly, many leave God’s gift to them untouched and unopened. How can that be? Have we overlooked Jesus at his own birthday celebration?
There is someone else we often forget when we give gifts: God. And he was the one who started the tradition by giving the first gift!
Even though we try to remember gifts for everyone, have we forgotten God?
I urge you to make this year the Christmas you complete the gift exchange with God. First give him yourself. All he wants is for you to become his child.
Next, give your best to others in need. When we do that we follow God’s example, the first giver of the first Christmas Gift.
Then, find and attend a church where you are welcome. Make sure it’s a place where the Bible, God’s Word is clearly taught. Look for a church where you feel God’s presence.
When Christians join together to serve God and others we become better people. And the world becomes a better place. Together we can help others receive God’s gift also.
The true Christmas spirit comes from our love for God and his love for others through us.
So when you exchange gifts this year, remember the first Giver and his first Christmas gift.
The Bible says, “For God so loved the world that he GAVE his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
In a gift exchange you give a present to someone else and they give one to you. Some groups do a “White Elephant” gift exchange with funny or unusual gifts.
As the Christmas season rushes to a close, many people will feel pressured to “keep the Christmas Spirit” and buy gifts. Too often they buy unwanted gifts for people they don’t like.
Well hold on just a minute! Before getting all stressed out, stop and ponder the true meaning of the first Christmas more than 2000 years ago.
That year there was just one gift. There was no Christmas tree, no lights and no candy. Santa Claus and his reindeer hadn’t even been thought of yet.
For the first Christmas, God gave and man received. It was the best gift God could possibly give. There was no pretty wrapping paper or colorful ribbon. Instead God’s gift was wrapped in a blanket and placed in a feeding trough—a manger.
The first Christmas gift was a baby named Jesus.
Strange as it may seem, the gift became even more valuable after he died and rose again. Why? Because the gift was not just a baby. It was someone who became the Savior of the world.
When Jesus died on the cross, the Bible says he paid the full penalty for our sin. As a result, our sins can be forgiven and we can become children of God. Forgiveness is God’s gift to us.
To receive God’s gift we must welcome Jesus Christ into our lives. Through him we can have peace with God and eternal life. When we receive him by faith as our Savior and follow him as our Lord we get the only gift that really keeps on giving. Forever.
That’s why we celebrate Christmas and the birth of Jesus. Year after year people exchange gifts in memory of that first Christmas gift.
Sadly, many leave God’s gift to them untouched and unopened. How can that be? Have we overlooked Jesus at his own birthday celebration?
There is someone else we often forget when we give gifts: God. And he was the one who started the tradition by giving the first gift!
Even though we try to remember gifts for everyone, have we forgotten God?
I urge you to make this year the Christmas you complete the gift exchange with God. First give him yourself. All he wants is for you to become his child.
Next, give your best to others in need. When we do that we follow God’s example, the first giver of the first Christmas Gift.
Then, find and attend a church where you are welcome. Make sure it’s a place where the Bible, God’s Word is clearly taught. Look for a church where you feel God’s presence.
When Christians join together to serve God and others we become better people. And the world becomes a better place. Together we can help others receive God’s gift also.
The true Christmas spirit comes from our love for God and his love for others through us.
So when you exchange gifts this year, remember the first Giver and his first Christmas gift.
The Bible says, “For God so loved the world that he GAVE his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, December 15, 2008
The Perfect Gift
If only our lives were as simple as Santa’s.
Ask a child how Santa knows where to go and he or she will tell you. Santa has Rudolph.
You know—as in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. In his famous song Santa asks, “Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?” The rest, as they say, is history—uh, make-believe history.
While that works in the fantasy world, what about in real life? How can you find your way?
For the real world, a GPS gadget is just the ticket. GPS stands for “Global Positioning System.” It relies on a system of satellites to pinpoint where you are and show you where to go.
We used one on our Thanksgiving trip. It was amazing--our own personal guidance system.
To get to places we’d never been before, it was invaluable. Instead of straining to see tiny print on a map and missing exits due to heavy traffic, we listened to the calm GPS voice. It told us when to turn and where to go. It even knew locations of gas stations and restaurants.
For familiar places we still followed the GPS directions. As a result we found new routes with less traffic and shorter travel times.
It was a little scary because we had to trust an electronic gadget. But it never let us down.
If only there was a GPS for navigating through our personal lives! Wouldn’t that be great?
Well hold on for just a minute—there is one. It’s called the Bible.
Someone said B-I-B-L-E stands for “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” I like that.
The Bible says in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.”
Even when life gets scary, God is the Shepherd who guides us. He will never let you down.
Israel’s King David wrote in Psalm 23, “He leads me.” He said, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me.”
Later the Psalmist adds, “For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.” Then, “You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.”
In the New Testament Gospel of John, Jesus tells us he is the Good Shepherd who leads his sheep. But here’s the key: you must trust him enough to follow him.
The only way to find out where Jesus will lead you is to follow him. It’s like when we used the GPS. When we followed it, it worked. If we didn’t trust it, we would have been lost.
Skeptical? That’s OK. Try getting to know Jesus first. Read about him in the Gospel of John. Talk to others who have followed him for a while. You’ll find he never lets you down.
Jesus invitation is simple: “If anyone chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” The choice is yours.
But you must find Jesus for yourself. For that you need the Bible. It’s God’s GPS to lead you to the babe in the manger who became the Savior on the cross.
God planned the first Christmas so we wouldn’t miss his Son. God announced through the prophets that Jesus’ birth would be in Bethlehem. That way we’d know where to look. All the prophecies are like flashing arrows pointing to Jesus.
Just as God led the wise men to Bethlehem and Jesus, he is trying to lead us to Jesus. The point of the Christmas story is not the gifts of the wise men but the gift of God.
The Bible says, “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord.” It’s the perfect gift that keeps on giving. And it’s for you and everyone who will call on Jesus’ name.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Ask a child how Santa knows where to go and he or she will tell you. Santa has Rudolph.
You know—as in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. In his famous song Santa asks, “Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?” The rest, as they say, is history—uh, make-believe history.
While that works in the fantasy world, what about in real life? How can you find your way?
For the real world, a GPS gadget is just the ticket. GPS stands for “Global Positioning System.” It relies on a system of satellites to pinpoint where you are and show you where to go.
We used one on our Thanksgiving trip. It was amazing--our own personal guidance system.
To get to places we’d never been before, it was invaluable. Instead of straining to see tiny print on a map and missing exits due to heavy traffic, we listened to the calm GPS voice. It told us when to turn and where to go. It even knew locations of gas stations and restaurants.
For familiar places we still followed the GPS directions. As a result we found new routes with less traffic and shorter travel times.
It was a little scary because we had to trust an electronic gadget. But it never let us down.
If only there was a GPS for navigating through our personal lives! Wouldn’t that be great?
Well hold on for just a minute—there is one. It’s called the Bible.
Someone said B-I-B-L-E stands for “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” I like that.
The Bible says in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.”
Even when life gets scary, God is the Shepherd who guides us. He will never let you down.
Israel’s King David wrote in Psalm 23, “He leads me.” He said, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me.”
Later the Psalmist adds, “For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.” Then, “You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.”
In the New Testament Gospel of John, Jesus tells us he is the Good Shepherd who leads his sheep. But here’s the key: you must trust him enough to follow him.
The only way to find out where Jesus will lead you is to follow him. It’s like when we used the GPS. When we followed it, it worked. If we didn’t trust it, we would have been lost.
Skeptical? That’s OK. Try getting to know Jesus first. Read about him in the Gospel of John. Talk to others who have followed him for a while. You’ll find he never lets you down.
Jesus invitation is simple: “If anyone chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” The choice is yours.
But you must find Jesus for yourself. For that you need the Bible. It’s God’s GPS to lead you to the babe in the manger who became the Savior on the cross.
God planned the first Christmas so we wouldn’t miss his Son. God announced through the prophets that Jesus’ birth would be in Bethlehem. That way we’d know where to look. All the prophecies are like flashing arrows pointing to Jesus.
Just as God led the wise men to Bethlehem and Jesus, he is trying to lead us to Jesus. The point of the Christmas story is not the gifts of the wise men but the gift of God.
The Bible says, “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord.” It’s the perfect gift that keeps on giving. And it’s for you and everyone who will call on Jesus’ name.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, December 8, 2008
No Pokies
Children have a way of getting right to the point.
Last week I spoke to my granddaughter on the phone. She will soon be five years old. I told her I loved her and can’t wait to hug her and kiss her. Normal grandpa stuff.
Her response? “I love you too, Grandpa. You can come soon and hug me and kiss me. But no pokies.”
What she meant by “No pokies” was a mystery. Then my daughter got on the phone and explained that her husband shaves once a week. My granddaughter wanted to be sure my beard wasn’t prickly. That way there’d be no “pokies.”
Well, needless to say, I had a good chuckle. I thought, “How precious!” Then I told my wife we need to go visit them soon so I can hold my granddaughter and get those hugs and kisses.
There’s something about the honesty and innocence of children that inspires us. And they can teach us much if we will pay attention.
Well, hold on just a minute. Aren’t we supposed to teach children?
Yes, but there is much we can learn from them. Especially when it comes to faith.
Jesus knew that some of the purest faith in the world belongs to children. The average adult of his day viewed children as unimportant and something of a bother. Even Jesus’ disciples.
One day when parents wanted Jesus to pray for their children, the disciples rebuked them. So Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Another time Jesus added, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
His point? The openness, faith and receptivity of children are an example to us.
The kingdom of God must be received as a gift. It is available to all who are humble and know they are helpless. Human effort is of no avail.
And that’s really the point of Christmas.
Christmas is about God offering us a gift. We did nothing to deserve it. He offers us a Savior who can forgive our sin and give us eternal life—a life of joy and purpose.
It cost God a lot. He gave us his very best. But it’s a free gift to all who receive it with the simple faith and trust of a child. Will you open your heart and accept it by faith?
As adults it’s too easy for us to lose Jesus in the Christmas rush. Don’t let it happen to you.
So when you gather with your family this year, watch the little children. Not only are they cute, they’re special to God. Their faith can point our hearts in the right direction.
And guys, if you want hugs and kisses—be sure you don’t have any “pokies”!
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Last week I spoke to my granddaughter on the phone. She will soon be five years old. I told her I loved her and can’t wait to hug her and kiss her. Normal grandpa stuff.
Her response? “I love you too, Grandpa. You can come soon and hug me and kiss me. But no pokies.”
What she meant by “No pokies” was a mystery. Then my daughter got on the phone and explained that her husband shaves once a week. My granddaughter wanted to be sure my beard wasn’t prickly. That way there’d be no “pokies.”
Well, needless to say, I had a good chuckle. I thought, “How precious!” Then I told my wife we need to go visit them soon so I can hold my granddaughter and get those hugs and kisses.
There’s something about the honesty and innocence of children that inspires us. And they can teach us much if we will pay attention.
Well, hold on just a minute. Aren’t we supposed to teach children?
Yes, but there is much we can learn from them. Especially when it comes to faith.
Jesus knew that some of the purest faith in the world belongs to children. The average adult of his day viewed children as unimportant and something of a bother. Even Jesus’ disciples.
One day when parents wanted Jesus to pray for their children, the disciples rebuked them. So Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Another time Jesus added, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
His point? The openness, faith and receptivity of children are an example to us.
The kingdom of God must be received as a gift. It is available to all who are humble and know they are helpless. Human effort is of no avail.
And that’s really the point of Christmas.
Christmas is about God offering us a gift. We did nothing to deserve it. He offers us a Savior who can forgive our sin and give us eternal life—a life of joy and purpose.
It cost God a lot. He gave us his very best. But it’s a free gift to all who receive it with the simple faith and trust of a child. Will you open your heart and accept it by faith?
As adults it’s too easy for us to lose Jesus in the Christmas rush. Don’t let it happen to you.
So when you gather with your family this year, watch the little children. Not only are they cute, they’re special to God. Their faith can point our hearts in the right direction.
And guys, if you want hugs and kisses—be sure you don’t have any “pokies”!
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Redefining Christmas
Do modern Christmas celebrations bother you at all? Do you even think about it?
As a Christian (and having worked in retail), to say I’m a little irritated over what’s happened to the celebration of Jesus’ birth would be an understatement. It bothers me a lot!
Often I find myself wondering, “What does Jesus think about all the hoopla and spending on HIS birthday?” After all it is his birthday. We should care what he thinks—right?
A week or so ago I began hearing radio ads suggesting we redefine Christmas. I thought, “What’s up with that?” The ad listed a web site, so I did a little digging.
It turns out the radio ad is part of a $2 million national ad campaign sponsored by Connecticut billionaire, Ray Dalio. His goal? For Americans to give to others in need at Christmas.
Dalio’s idea is simple. He suggests giving to charities in the name of people on your gift list.
Matt Dalio, spokesman for Dalio’s charitable foundation, observed, “The amount of money spent in the holiday season on chocolate alone is greater than the annual budgets of Habitat for Humanity, the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association combined!”
So if we would give just a fraction of the money that’s spent on chocolates, charitable work could increase significantly. That’s mind-boggling.
Last Friday I went to Wal-Mart. The crowds were overwhelming. People pushed and shoved to get what they wanted. They argued over who was next in line for a cashier.
To say the least, Christmas spirit was in short supply.
In Valley Stream, New York, a Wal-Mart employee was trampled to death as a crowd broke down the doors and stampeded for the bargains.
Hold on just a minute! What have we done to Christmas?
We’ve taken a great idea and changed it into something completely unrecognizable.
The real Saint Nicholas is remembered for his secret charitable giving. That’s right—it was anonymous. He didn’t want the recipients to know he was the one who helped them!
Now don’t get me wrong. Exchanging Christmas gifts is a fun thing to do. But to go deep in debt, be stressed out over it and ignore Jesus sort of misses the whole point--doesn’t it?
I’ve actually had people get mad at me and tell me I was ruining Christmas by talking like that. But I didn’t ruin Christmas. It’s already been done. We are all guilty.
What’s the solution? Take a lesson from Jesus.
When he came to earth for that first Christmas, the Bible says that he “emptied himself.” In other words, he gave up his rights and became a servant. His goal was to help others. He came to die for our sin so we could receive God’s gift of eternal life and become children of God.
And when a rich man asked Jesus what he should do, Jesus said to sell what he had, give to the poor and then follow him. The man’s focus had been on himself instead of God and others.
If we would follow Jesus’ example and his advice, it would do more than redefine Christmas. It would TRANSFORM Christmas! Just imagine the people who’d be helped if we gave ten, twenty or thirty percent of our Christmas budget to charity. Or just what we spend on chocolate.
Now I’m not trying to tell you what to do. I’m just thinking out loud a little bit.
Remember, the Bible says, “It is better to give than to receive.” Think of that next time you walk by the red kettle and the bell ringer. Or drive by the local food bank.
Folks, when it comes to Christmas, I think we could do better. I’m just sayin’ …
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
As a Christian (and having worked in retail), to say I’m a little irritated over what’s happened to the celebration of Jesus’ birth would be an understatement. It bothers me a lot!
Often I find myself wondering, “What does Jesus think about all the hoopla and spending on HIS birthday?” After all it is his birthday. We should care what he thinks—right?
A week or so ago I began hearing radio ads suggesting we redefine Christmas. I thought, “What’s up with that?” The ad listed a web site, so I did a little digging.
It turns out the radio ad is part of a $2 million national ad campaign sponsored by Connecticut billionaire, Ray Dalio. His goal? For Americans to give to others in need at Christmas.
Dalio’s idea is simple. He suggests giving to charities in the name of people on your gift list.
Matt Dalio, spokesman for Dalio’s charitable foundation, observed, “The amount of money spent in the holiday season on chocolate alone is greater than the annual budgets of Habitat for Humanity, the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association combined!”
So if we would give just a fraction of the money that’s spent on chocolates, charitable work could increase significantly. That’s mind-boggling.
Last Friday I went to Wal-Mart. The crowds were overwhelming. People pushed and shoved to get what they wanted. They argued over who was next in line for a cashier.
To say the least, Christmas spirit was in short supply.
In Valley Stream, New York, a Wal-Mart employee was trampled to death as a crowd broke down the doors and stampeded for the bargains.
Hold on just a minute! What have we done to Christmas?
We’ve taken a great idea and changed it into something completely unrecognizable.
The real Saint Nicholas is remembered for his secret charitable giving. That’s right—it was anonymous. He didn’t want the recipients to know he was the one who helped them!
Now don’t get me wrong. Exchanging Christmas gifts is a fun thing to do. But to go deep in debt, be stressed out over it and ignore Jesus sort of misses the whole point--doesn’t it?
I’ve actually had people get mad at me and tell me I was ruining Christmas by talking like that. But I didn’t ruin Christmas. It’s already been done. We are all guilty.
What’s the solution? Take a lesson from Jesus.
When he came to earth for that first Christmas, the Bible says that he “emptied himself.” In other words, he gave up his rights and became a servant. His goal was to help others. He came to die for our sin so we could receive God’s gift of eternal life and become children of God.
And when a rich man asked Jesus what he should do, Jesus said to sell what he had, give to the poor and then follow him. The man’s focus had been on himself instead of God and others.
If we would follow Jesus’ example and his advice, it would do more than redefine Christmas. It would TRANSFORM Christmas! Just imagine the people who’d be helped if we gave ten, twenty or thirty percent of our Christmas budget to charity. Or just what we spend on chocolate.
Now I’m not trying to tell you what to do. I’m just thinking out loud a little bit.
Remember, the Bible says, “It is better to give than to receive.” Think of that next time you walk by the red kettle and the bell ringer. Or drive by the local food bank.
Folks, when it comes to Christmas, I think we could do better. I’m just sayin’ …
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Thanks-Living
The calendar tells us it’s the week to be thankful. What if you don’t feel thankful? What if, for you, it feels more like a God-forsaken year?
The answer is to count your blessings. Celebrate God’s mercy to you. Try Thanks-Living.
I know, I know--times are tough. Unemployment is up. It’s hard to sell a house or get credit. The cost of just about everything is up. The economy seems to be in shambles.
Plus there are two seemingly endless wars going on. Many families will spend the holiday worrying about their loved ones in harm’s way. Some will wake up on Thanksgiving Day feeling like there’s more to be worried about than for which to be thankful.
Well hold on just a minute. Even though life can look pretty grim at times, it doesn’t mean God has forgotten us.
The Pilgrims knew that. So did Abraham Lincoln.
We’re not the first Americans to feel less thankful during trying times. Consider the plight of the Pilgrims before the first Thanksgiving celebration in America.
The winter of 1620 was devastating. The harvest was almost non-existent. The cold was numbing. Parents saw children die in their sleep. There wasn’t much to celebrate.
But then came the bountiful harvest of 1621. The Pilgrims gathered to thank God for blessing them. Things could have been better but they also could have been much worse.
Fast-forward 242 years after that first Thanksgiving. Listen to the words of a man who faced a different, but no less devastating trial.
Abraham Lincoln was President of half a country involved in a bloody battle with the other half. Yet in the middle of a war, he declared there was much the no longer united states could be thankful for.
On Oct. 3, 1863--just two weeks after more than 34,000 Americans were killed or wounded in the battle of Chickamauga--Lincoln issued a proclamation establishing a national day of Thanksgiving. His words bear repeating.
“The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies," he wrote. "To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added…”
Lincoln went on to observe that America was at peace with foreign nations. Farming and industry continued, as did international trade. He said, “No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.”
“It has seemed to me fit and proper,” he continued, “that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States . . . to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.”
If Lincoln and the Pilgrims could thank God in the midst of their trials, shouldn’t we be able to do the same? Surely our difficulties are no worse than theirs.
The Bible tells us to “Be Thankful.” It reminds us to “Sing with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, do it giving thanks to God.” That’s Thanks-Living.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
The answer is to count your blessings. Celebrate God’s mercy to you. Try Thanks-Living.
I know, I know--times are tough. Unemployment is up. It’s hard to sell a house or get credit. The cost of just about everything is up. The economy seems to be in shambles.
Plus there are two seemingly endless wars going on. Many families will spend the holiday worrying about their loved ones in harm’s way. Some will wake up on Thanksgiving Day feeling like there’s more to be worried about than for which to be thankful.
Well hold on just a minute. Even though life can look pretty grim at times, it doesn’t mean God has forgotten us.
The Pilgrims knew that. So did Abraham Lincoln.
We’re not the first Americans to feel less thankful during trying times. Consider the plight of the Pilgrims before the first Thanksgiving celebration in America.
The winter of 1620 was devastating. The harvest was almost non-existent. The cold was numbing. Parents saw children die in their sleep. There wasn’t much to celebrate.
But then came the bountiful harvest of 1621. The Pilgrims gathered to thank God for blessing them. Things could have been better but they also could have been much worse.
Fast-forward 242 years after that first Thanksgiving. Listen to the words of a man who faced a different, but no less devastating trial.
Abraham Lincoln was President of half a country involved in a bloody battle with the other half. Yet in the middle of a war, he declared there was much the no longer united states could be thankful for.
On Oct. 3, 1863--just two weeks after more than 34,000 Americans were killed or wounded in the battle of Chickamauga--Lincoln issued a proclamation establishing a national day of Thanksgiving. His words bear repeating.
“The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies," he wrote. "To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added…”
Lincoln went on to observe that America was at peace with foreign nations. Farming and industry continued, as did international trade. He said, “No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.”
“It has seemed to me fit and proper,” he continued, “that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States . . . to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.”
If Lincoln and the Pilgrims could thank God in the midst of their trials, shouldn’t we be able to do the same? Surely our difficulties are no worse than theirs.
The Bible tells us to “Be Thankful.” It reminds us to “Sing with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, do it giving thanks to God.” That’s Thanks-Living.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Beyond Belief
Do you have strong beliefs? Then brace yourself. This could come as a shock.
It doesn’t matter what you believe.
“Say what? Now hold it right there for just a minute! All these religious people who talk about faith and ‘Just Believe’ –and now you say believing doesn’t matter? What’s up with that?”
I didn’t say believing doesn’t matter. I said it doesn’t matter WHAT you believe.
What matters is what is TRUE. Belief by itself is not enough. We must believe in truth.
Do you believe there is nothing after death? Or reincarnation? How do you know that to be true? What evidence have you found that convinced you to gamble your eternity on that belief?
Or maybe you’re an atheist. You believe there is no God. Tell me, what evidence have you found to prove that? And if there’s no evidence to prove your belief, then it’s blind faith.
Many people base their eternal future on something that isn’t fact and they haven’t fully investigated. They heard about it or read about and it sounded good to them. They hope it’s true.
Some people when asked why they believe what they do say, “I believe in my heart it’s true.”
That’s nice. But have you ever believed something with all of your heart and later found out it wasn’t true? Most of us have. Maybe it was the Tooth Fairy or the Easter Bunny.
Many people like to think that we’re free to believe whatever we want about eternity. Sort of a “pick your own ending” approach. But we can’t all be right.
Well what if you’re wrong about eternity? Wouldn’t you want to know?
Someone might ask, “What if you Christians are wrong?” Good question.
Consider this: Christians believe in the only faith that has evidence to back it up. It’s true. If you doubt that, check out Josh McDowell’s book, “New Evidence that Demands a Verdict.”
Here’s something else: believing in Jesus Christ has changed my life. God made me a new person. I have peace. I have a purpose for my life that is greater than me.
But, in spite of all that, if I am wrong—I will die and go to my grave and that’s all there is.
But if someone chooses not to trust in Jesus Christ and then dies and is wrong, they are literally choosing hell for all of eternity. Is that a good choice?
If you sincerely seek truth I encourage you to read the Bible. Why? Here are some facts.
The Bible is the best selling book in the world. With that kind of record there’s a good chance it contains at least some truth. Why not read it and find out? Start with the Gospel of John
Another thing to consider is that the Bible claims to be written by God. What if it’s right?
Historical evidence also supports the Bible. No one has found an historical mistake anywhere in the Bible. That wouldn’t be true if only men wrote it.
What about archaeology? When I traveled to Israel, evidence was constantly being unearthed that proved the Bible to be true. To date not a single piece of archaeological evidence has been found to disprove the Bible!
Finally, the Bible is the only book in the world that contains hundreds of detailed prophecies about the future. The same cannot be said for any other “holy” book. And except for the few remaining prophecies about Jesus’ return to earth, every other prophecy has come true.
Who is the only one who can predict the future with 100% accuracy? God.
So when the Bible says about Jesus, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” –it’s worth a second look!
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
It doesn’t matter what you believe.
“Say what? Now hold it right there for just a minute! All these religious people who talk about faith and ‘Just Believe’ –and now you say believing doesn’t matter? What’s up with that?”
I didn’t say believing doesn’t matter. I said it doesn’t matter WHAT you believe.
What matters is what is TRUE. Belief by itself is not enough. We must believe in truth.
Do you believe there is nothing after death? Or reincarnation? How do you know that to be true? What evidence have you found that convinced you to gamble your eternity on that belief?
Or maybe you’re an atheist. You believe there is no God. Tell me, what evidence have you found to prove that? And if there’s no evidence to prove your belief, then it’s blind faith.
Many people base their eternal future on something that isn’t fact and they haven’t fully investigated. They heard about it or read about and it sounded good to them. They hope it’s true.
Some people when asked why they believe what they do say, “I believe in my heart it’s true.”
That’s nice. But have you ever believed something with all of your heart and later found out it wasn’t true? Most of us have. Maybe it was the Tooth Fairy or the Easter Bunny.
Many people like to think that we’re free to believe whatever we want about eternity. Sort of a “pick your own ending” approach. But we can’t all be right.
Well what if you’re wrong about eternity? Wouldn’t you want to know?
Someone might ask, “What if you Christians are wrong?” Good question.
Consider this: Christians believe in the only faith that has evidence to back it up. It’s true. If you doubt that, check out Josh McDowell’s book, “New Evidence that Demands a Verdict.”
Here’s something else: believing in Jesus Christ has changed my life. God made me a new person. I have peace. I have a purpose for my life that is greater than me.
But, in spite of all that, if I am wrong—I will die and go to my grave and that’s all there is.
But if someone chooses not to trust in Jesus Christ and then dies and is wrong, they are literally choosing hell for all of eternity. Is that a good choice?
If you sincerely seek truth I encourage you to read the Bible. Why? Here are some facts.
The Bible is the best selling book in the world. With that kind of record there’s a good chance it contains at least some truth. Why not read it and find out? Start with the Gospel of John
Another thing to consider is that the Bible claims to be written by God. What if it’s right?
Historical evidence also supports the Bible. No one has found an historical mistake anywhere in the Bible. That wouldn’t be true if only men wrote it.
What about archaeology? When I traveled to Israel, evidence was constantly being unearthed that proved the Bible to be true. To date not a single piece of archaeological evidence has been found to disprove the Bible!
Finally, the Bible is the only book in the world that contains hundreds of detailed prophecies about the future. The same cannot be said for any other “holy” book. And except for the few remaining prophecies about Jesus’ return to earth, every other prophecy has come true.
Who is the only one who can predict the future with 100% accuracy? God.
So when the Bible says about Jesus, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” –it’s worth a second look!
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Underground Behavior
Just about everyone in my town knows who Phillies’ manager Charlie Manuel is. He’s a hometown boy that grew up locally and made it to the big leagues. A real hero.
So when Philadelphia won baseball’s World Series on October 29, it was fun for me to be nearby on vacation. Phillies fans were very excited over the big win!
As plans unfolded on television for the victory parade, I never thought of going to watch it. I was there to visit relatives and that took priority. Parades are nice but family comes first.
Now if my grandchildren were with me, I might have reconsidered. Good thing I was alone.
Bob, an old friend of mine, took his grandson to the parade. He did what city officials recommended and used public transportation. And things went well until after the parade.
As they descended from the street into the subway there was a very long line. While waiting, they noticed people coming down another stairway across the street. However, the other entrance put people closer to the front of the line. And that seemed a little unfair…
When folks in Bob’s line realized what was happening, the mood changed dramatically. Instead of the happiness of the parade, there was anger. Instead of cheers there was cursing. It was underground ugliness. Bob wanted to cover his grandson’s ears!
What changed? The Phillies were still World Champions weren’t they?
Yes, but even an emotional high like winning the World Series didn’t take away the anger in peoples’ hearts. Happiness doesn’t automatically bring peace or joy. You need more than that.
Now hold it for just a minute! Say what?
If your team wins the World Series, it can change your day but it doesn’t change your heart. You’re still who you were. If you were an angry grumpy person before, that’s who you still are.
Jesus Christ said that out of the heart the mouth speaks. So what you are inside affects your speech and behavior more that what happens on the outside.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you,” said Jesus. “I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Later he added, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
There is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness depends on what happens in your life. That’s why it’s called “happiness.”
Joy grows out of a hopeful, trusting, and peaceful confidence that everything is OK because God is in control. As a result, even when bad things happen, a Christian can have joy.
So what about Bob? He said it took an hour and a half to get on the subway train. Frustrating? Yes. Worth getting angry or losing one’s temper over? No.
A Christ follower, a child of God through faith in Christ, can behave the same way in a long underground subway line as he does above ground at a parade. Why? Because faith in Jesus Christ changes your heart. God replaces self-centered anger with God-centered peace.
The Bible confirms this when it says, “If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation. The old has gone and the new has come!” If that’s not you, then check out your relationship with God.
Now don’t get me wrong. Christians aren’t perfect people. They’re still “under construction.” Like a lapel button I once saw said: “Please be patient with me because God isn’t finished yet!”
Speaking of God the Bible says, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ.” And that’s a promise Christians count on.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
So when Philadelphia won baseball’s World Series on October 29, it was fun for me to be nearby on vacation. Phillies fans were very excited over the big win!
As plans unfolded on television for the victory parade, I never thought of going to watch it. I was there to visit relatives and that took priority. Parades are nice but family comes first.
Now if my grandchildren were with me, I might have reconsidered. Good thing I was alone.
Bob, an old friend of mine, took his grandson to the parade. He did what city officials recommended and used public transportation. And things went well until after the parade.
As they descended from the street into the subway there was a very long line. While waiting, they noticed people coming down another stairway across the street. However, the other entrance put people closer to the front of the line. And that seemed a little unfair…
When folks in Bob’s line realized what was happening, the mood changed dramatically. Instead of the happiness of the parade, there was anger. Instead of cheers there was cursing. It was underground ugliness. Bob wanted to cover his grandson’s ears!
What changed? The Phillies were still World Champions weren’t they?
Yes, but even an emotional high like winning the World Series didn’t take away the anger in peoples’ hearts. Happiness doesn’t automatically bring peace or joy. You need more than that.
Now hold it for just a minute! Say what?
If your team wins the World Series, it can change your day but it doesn’t change your heart. You’re still who you were. If you were an angry grumpy person before, that’s who you still are.
Jesus Christ said that out of the heart the mouth speaks. So what you are inside affects your speech and behavior more that what happens on the outside.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you,” said Jesus. “I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Later he added, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
There is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness depends on what happens in your life. That’s why it’s called “happiness.”
Joy grows out of a hopeful, trusting, and peaceful confidence that everything is OK because God is in control. As a result, even when bad things happen, a Christian can have joy.
So what about Bob? He said it took an hour and a half to get on the subway train. Frustrating? Yes. Worth getting angry or losing one’s temper over? No.
A Christ follower, a child of God through faith in Christ, can behave the same way in a long underground subway line as he does above ground at a parade. Why? Because faith in Jesus Christ changes your heart. God replaces self-centered anger with God-centered peace.
The Bible confirms this when it says, “If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation. The old has gone and the new has come!” If that’s not you, then check out your relationship with God.
Now don’t get me wrong. Christians aren’t perfect people. They’re still “under construction.” Like a lapel button I once saw said: “Please be patient with me because God isn’t finished yet!”
Speaking of God the Bible says, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ.” And that’s a promise Christians count on.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Spin Cycle
Do you remember wringer washers?
Next to the washtub was a pair of rollers called a wringer. After washing and rinsing, clothes were put through the wringer to squeeze out most of the water.
A big improvement over washing and wringing by hand!
Then came automatic washers. Instead of a wringer, the new machine had a spin cycle that spun out excess water. Another big improvement—and safer, too.
When I was a boy, I once went in the kitchen where our washer had a prominent place. My little sister was standing on a chair and peeking under the lid. As she did, her rear end moved in circles matching the motion of the washtub.
It wasn’t intentional. She unconsciously mimicked what she saw.
Have you noticed how people imitate what they see and hear? It’s a common trait.
In his book, “The Curate’s Awakening,” George MacDonald describes a college student with this quality. He wrote, “She never had an original thought. She thought a great deal of other people’s thoughts, thinking they were her own.”
My first thought was, “I know people like that!” My second thought was, “I hope that doesn’t describe me!” Does it describe you? It can happen so gradually you don’t realize it.
For weeks we’ve been overwhelmed by opinions and pressured by pundits. Believe this. Think that. Vote for this candidate or that one.
After an election like this, voters can feel like they’ve been through the spin cycle. No wonder they call it “spinning” the facts!
What’s the solution? Stop thinking politics or a politician will save the world. If anything, a good politician is probably one who doesn’t make things worse.
Well hold on just a minute! Can’t an election make things better?
It may change some things, but if you think our problems are over, I’ve got news for you! Politicians can’t issue proclamations and change things at will. They must work within the law.
Besides that, belief in the ability of one person or a political party to fix what’s wrong in America is a misplaced faith. If it were possible, we would have solved most of our problems by now. The history books are full of leaders who tried their best--but to no avail.
The real solution goes back past the fathers of our country to the founder of our faith: Jesus. He had the answer when he said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God. Believe also in me.” A troubled heart is full of fear, doubt and worry. A peaceful heart is strong.
Faith in Jesus Christ is the only solution that will save us from troubled hearts. Because if history proves anything, it demonstrates that people let us down.
Presidents, senators, congressmen and governments will fail us. Even military power doesn’t guarantee safety. But Jesus never fails.
Do you want peace? Only Jesus can bring peace to your heart. Do you want safety? Only Jesus can keep you safe through this life and into the next. Who else can do that?
So as you listen to the election analysis and try to understand what it all means, skip the “spin cycle.” Listen to God first. He doesn’t spin the truth. Only he knows and controls the future.
Regardless of who runs the government, God is still in charge. In spite of of men’s decisions, God controls the outcome. And he said of Jesus, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Next to the washtub was a pair of rollers called a wringer. After washing and rinsing, clothes were put through the wringer to squeeze out most of the water.
A big improvement over washing and wringing by hand!
Then came automatic washers. Instead of a wringer, the new machine had a spin cycle that spun out excess water. Another big improvement—and safer, too.
When I was a boy, I once went in the kitchen where our washer had a prominent place. My little sister was standing on a chair and peeking under the lid. As she did, her rear end moved in circles matching the motion of the washtub.
It wasn’t intentional. She unconsciously mimicked what she saw.
Have you noticed how people imitate what they see and hear? It’s a common trait.
In his book, “The Curate’s Awakening,” George MacDonald describes a college student with this quality. He wrote, “She never had an original thought. She thought a great deal of other people’s thoughts, thinking they were her own.”
My first thought was, “I know people like that!” My second thought was, “I hope that doesn’t describe me!” Does it describe you? It can happen so gradually you don’t realize it.
For weeks we’ve been overwhelmed by opinions and pressured by pundits. Believe this. Think that. Vote for this candidate or that one.
After an election like this, voters can feel like they’ve been through the spin cycle. No wonder they call it “spinning” the facts!
What’s the solution? Stop thinking politics or a politician will save the world. If anything, a good politician is probably one who doesn’t make things worse.
Well hold on just a minute! Can’t an election make things better?
It may change some things, but if you think our problems are over, I’ve got news for you! Politicians can’t issue proclamations and change things at will. They must work within the law.
Besides that, belief in the ability of one person or a political party to fix what’s wrong in America is a misplaced faith. If it were possible, we would have solved most of our problems by now. The history books are full of leaders who tried their best--but to no avail.
The real solution goes back past the fathers of our country to the founder of our faith: Jesus. He had the answer when he said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God. Believe also in me.” A troubled heart is full of fear, doubt and worry. A peaceful heart is strong.
Faith in Jesus Christ is the only solution that will save us from troubled hearts. Because if history proves anything, it demonstrates that people let us down.
Presidents, senators, congressmen and governments will fail us. Even military power doesn’t guarantee safety. But Jesus never fails.
Do you want peace? Only Jesus can bring peace to your heart. Do you want safety? Only Jesus can keep you safe through this life and into the next. Who else can do that?
So as you listen to the election analysis and try to understand what it all means, skip the “spin cycle.” Listen to God first. He doesn’t spin the truth. Only he knows and controls the future.
Regardless of who runs the government, God is still in charge. In spite of of men’s decisions, God controls the outcome. And he said of Jesus, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Taking Stock
For the first time since World War II a presidential election is not the top daily news story. Instead, “It’s the economy, stupid.” We’re told that stock shock is sweeping world markets.
What to do? Should investors buy or sell? Neither--but hold it for just a minute before you jump to conclusions about my sanity as a market guru!
“Neither” is a good answer because the best thing to do right now is take stock. That’s right. Do an inventory. Take stock of what you have that’s genuinely valuable. And no, it’s not gold.
Do you have faith in God through Jesus Christ? Do you have family that cares for you? Do you have friends? If so, then you’re wealthy beyond measure. And that’s wealth no one can tax!
The real issue is this: “What do you treasure? What’s most important to you?” Because the answer to that determines how you invest your time. And time is one of the most important commodities you have. Once you spend it you can never reinvest it.
Many people are addicted to behaviors they end up regretting. Things like sports, shopping, video games and worse (drugs, gambling, or pornography). Such behaviors can steal your time.
My friend, Bob Collitt, once said, “Some men die in battle, some men die in flames; others perish inch by inch while playing silly games.” If only there was a way to get more out of life!
There is if you take a lesson from coupons. Have you heard that coupons are popular again? Due to the sour economy there are web sites and newsletters devoted to redeeming coupons. Some savvy shoppers claim they pay next to nothing on most shopping trips.
Now while redeeming coupons is smart, redeeming time is essential to a well-lived life.
How can you redeem time? The Bible tells us, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but wise, making the most of every opportunity.” God gives wisdom for life.
Until illness intervenes or old age approaches, most people give time little thought. Many assume they have an unlimited amount available. But the truth is the quite the opposite.
Some people hoard money and waste time. They spend their whole life squandering life’s greatest gift. And then they die full of regret.
Do you want to avoid a similar fate? Invest in things that matter most. Enduring things like faith, family and friends. Investigate and begin a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
When you think about it, very few things are eternal. You have an eternal soul. So do others. God is eternal. Yet many people ignore the eternal and focus on the temporary.
That’s why Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Another time he asked, “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet lose his soul?”
If you invest in the stock market, sooner or later you hear, “You have to be in it for the long term.” That’s good advice for life also. The choices you make now have eternal consequences.
To live for things and trade your life for money is one of life’s greatest delusions. One day you will leave it all behind. And as you head into eternity empty-handed you will wonder if there might not have been a better way to invest your life.
When I worked in retail we took inventories so we knew what to keep and what to get rid of. Merchandise only makes a profit when it sells. Products that just sit there waste space.
So before your life ends--do an inventory. Take stock. Is something wasting space? Get rid of it and invest in eternal things. Oh, and don’t put it off. As Cricket sports star and missionary C.T. Studd said, “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
What to do? Should investors buy or sell? Neither--but hold it for just a minute before you jump to conclusions about my sanity as a market guru!
“Neither” is a good answer because the best thing to do right now is take stock. That’s right. Do an inventory. Take stock of what you have that’s genuinely valuable. And no, it’s not gold.
Do you have faith in God through Jesus Christ? Do you have family that cares for you? Do you have friends? If so, then you’re wealthy beyond measure. And that’s wealth no one can tax!
The real issue is this: “What do you treasure? What’s most important to you?” Because the answer to that determines how you invest your time. And time is one of the most important commodities you have. Once you spend it you can never reinvest it.
Many people are addicted to behaviors they end up regretting. Things like sports, shopping, video games and worse (drugs, gambling, or pornography). Such behaviors can steal your time.
My friend, Bob Collitt, once said, “Some men die in battle, some men die in flames; others perish inch by inch while playing silly games.” If only there was a way to get more out of life!
There is if you take a lesson from coupons. Have you heard that coupons are popular again? Due to the sour economy there are web sites and newsletters devoted to redeeming coupons. Some savvy shoppers claim they pay next to nothing on most shopping trips.
Now while redeeming coupons is smart, redeeming time is essential to a well-lived life.
How can you redeem time? The Bible tells us, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but wise, making the most of every opportunity.” God gives wisdom for life.
Until illness intervenes or old age approaches, most people give time little thought. Many assume they have an unlimited amount available. But the truth is the quite the opposite.
Some people hoard money and waste time. They spend their whole life squandering life’s greatest gift. And then they die full of regret.
Do you want to avoid a similar fate? Invest in things that matter most. Enduring things like faith, family and friends. Investigate and begin a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
When you think about it, very few things are eternal. You have an eternal soul. So do others. God is eternal. Yet many people ignore the eternal and focus on the temporary.
That’s why Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Another time he asked, “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet lose his soul?”
If you invest in the stock market, sooner or later you hear, “You have to be in it for the long term.” That’s good advice for life also. The choices you make now have eternal consequences.
To live for things and trade your life for money is one of life’s greatest delusions. One day you will leave it all behind. And as you head into eternity empty-handed you will wonder if there might not have been a better way to invest your life.
When I worked in retail we took inventories so we knew what to keep and what to get rid of. Merchandise only makes a profit when it sells. Products that just sit there waste space.
So before your life ends--do an inventory. Take stock. Is something wasting space? Get rid of it and invest in eternal things. Oh, and don’t put it off. As Cricket sports star and missionary C.T. Studd said, “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Stark Contrast
Americans stand at a crossroads. Which direction will we go?
Never before have our choices been so different. So opposite.
Good or evil. Darkness or light. Love or hate. Forgiveness or revenge. Right or wrong.
And then there’s the election in November. But that’s not our most important choice.
“Well hold on just a minute! What’s more important than choosing our next President?”
The most critical choice Americans face is not at the polls. It’s in our minds.
So before you vote in November, decide whom you will serve: the God of the Bible or the god of self. Because, as Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters.”
One opinion editorial I recently read could be summed up like this: “You can vote for values and principles if you want, but I’m voting what’s best for me.”
That begs the question, “Why are you so important? Why do you think what’s best for you best for the country?”
The answer may be that people think like that because America is broken.
If you really listen to the speeches, no political leader knows how to fix America. They just want the opportunity to try out their ideas. No one knows if they’ll work.
Besides, how do we fix greed, evil or self-centeredness? Governments can’t fix those.
If presidents or parliaments could fix nations, wouldn’t we be on the right path by now? I mean, how long does it take? Every time we vote we hope--but the politicians let us down.
What we really need are leaders like the men of Issachar. “Who?” The men of Issachar.
To learn who they were you need a Bible. Go to the Old Testament book of 1 Chronicles chapter 12 and verse 32. During a time of national crisis it says these men “understood the times and knew what Israel should do.”
Compare the men of Issachar to those who would lead us today. It’s a stark contrast.
Now most partisans believe the candidate they’ve picked can lead us back to the “Promised Land” of the American Dream. But given the economic and moral mess we’re in, such leadership requires more than human ingenuity. Divine wisdom would come in handy.
First we must pick the right God. But which one, since Americans worship so many?
Israel’s general, Joshua, clearly described the choice we face today. He said, “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve. Whether the gods your forefathers served…or the gods of the…land you are living in. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
When America considered herself a Christian nation, when she served the God of the Bible, she became a great and powerful nation. But as we have turned our backs on him, he is turning his back on us.
The Biblical prophet Jeremiah revealed that if a nation served and obeyed God, he would protect and reward it. Then God added, “‘But if any nation does not listen, I will completely uproot and destroy it,’ declares the LORD.”
My question is this: “Is anybody listening to God?” Or are we so distracted by weather catastrophes and economic meltdowns that we fail to see his hand at work behind the scenes?
Maybe God is trying to shake our confidence in wealth, politics and American ingenuity.
Perhaps the right conclusion to draw from the Bible in light of our trials is that only God will never let you down. Politicians fail. Only a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is forever.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Never before have our choices been so different. So opposite.
Good or evil. Darkness or light. Love or hate. Forgiveness or revenge. Right or wrong.
And then there’s the election in November. But that’s not our most important choice.
“Well hold on just a minute! What’s more important than choosing our next President?”
The most critical choice Americans face is not at the polls. It’s in our minds.
So before you vote in November, decide whom you will serve: the God of the Bible or the god of self. Because, as Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters.”
One opinion editorial I recently read could be summed up like this: “You can vote for values and principles if you want, but I’m voting what’s best for me.”
That begs the question, “Why are you so important? Why do you think what’s best for you best for the country?”
The answer may be that people think like that because America is broken.
If you really listen to the speeches, no political leader knows how to fix America. They just want the opportunity to try out their ideas. No one knows if they’ll work.
Besides, how do we fix greed, evil or self-centeredness? Governments can’t fix those.
If presidents or parliaments could fix nations, wouldn’t we be on the right path by now? I mean, how long does it take? Every time we vote we hope--but the politicians let us down.
What we really need are leaders like the men of Issachar. “Who?” The men of Issachar.
To learn who they were you need a Bible. Go to the Old Testament book of 1 Chronicles chapter 12 and verse 32. During a time of national crisis it says these men “understood the times and knew what Israel should do.”
Compare the men of Issachar to those who would lead us today. It’s a stark contrast.
Now most partisans believe the candidate they’ve picked can lead us back to the “Promised Land” of the American Dream. But given the economic and moral mess we’re in, such leadership requires more than human ingenuity. Divine wisdom would come in handy.
First we must pick the right God. But which one, since Americans worship so many?
Israel’s general, Joshua, clearly described the choice we face today. He said, “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve. Whether the gods your forefathers served…or the gods of the…land you are living in. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
When America considered herself a Christian nation, when she served the God of the Bible, she became a great and powerful nation. But as we have turned our backs on him, he is turning his back on us.
The Biblical prophet Jeremiah revealed that if a nation served and obeyed God, he would protect and reward it. Then God added, “‘But if any nation does not listen, I will completely uproot and destroy it,’ declares the LORD.”
My question is this: “Is anybody listening to God?” Or are we so distracted by weather catastrophes and economic meltdowns that we fail to see his hand at work behind the scenes?
Maybe God is trying to shake our confidence in wealth, politics and American ingenuity.
Perhaps the right conclusion to draw from the Bible in light of our trials is that only God will never let you down. Politicians fail. Only a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is forever.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Heated Debate
I love a good debate. My wife? —not so much. She thinks it’s arguing.
As a result, I find myself watching the Presidential debates alone. Wincing at some remarks and hoping for a civil debate about the issues--it can be a frustrating experience.
My love of debating started in High School. I was blessed to have a teacher who encouraged reading news magazines, discussing current events and critical thinking.
In college the coffee shop was the place for lively debate. In grad school it was the Seminary lounge. Sometimes it got a little heated, but we were sharpening our logic and our minds.
The only thing worse than a dull mind is the attitude it produces--an attitude that says, “Don’t bother me with the facts. My mind is made up and you’re not changing it!”
A wise person once said, “By the time most people are 30 they’re like concrete—thoroughly mixed up and firmly set.”
What keeps that from happening? Reading widely, talking with others and critical thinking.
As a result, I read constantly. I like “Letters to the Editor” and the editorial pages in the newspaper. Why? Because I get to evaluate the thinking of people who disagree with me.
Without a challenge to our assumptions, without an objection to our worldview, how do we know we are right?
“Now hold on just a minute!” someone will say. “I know I’m right because I’m right! And I believe it with all my heart.”
Okaaaaaay. Would you explain that to me one more time?
Sound thinking is especially important when it comes to spiritual matters. Faith and reason are not contradictory. They are complimentary. But not everyone sees it that way.
Comedian Bill Maher’s recent mockumentary movie, “Religulous,” insists Christianity “stops people from thinking.” Is that true? Do Christians check their brains at the door?
In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.
True, some Christians aren’t thoughtful about their faith--but that’s by choice. And while anti-intellectualism is present in some places, Christians should never make a virtue of not thinking. In fact history will support the claim that, for the most part, we haven’t.
Many of history’s greatest thinkers were Christians. Faith was central in their quest for truth.
The Bible tells us to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind.” It adds, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
God’s invitation to consider our spiritual needs says, “Come now, let us reason together.” And early Christians, like the Apostle Paul, “reasoned” with doubters.
So when it comes to faith and spirituality, how about a thoughtful discussion? Let’s get off our “talking points” and explore truth. Because the truth is all that matters.
The next time you’re in a heated debate, remember these wise words from the Bible: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of a fool gushes folly.”
A heated debate--anger, accusations or slander--doesn’t win the day. Neither does mocking another’s beliefs. Know why you believe what you believe. Then explain it as simply as you can.
If what you say is true, it’s like planting a seed. When the soil is good, it bears good fruit.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
As a result, I find myself watching the Presidential debates alone. Wincing at some remarks and hoping for a civil debate about the issues--it can be a frustrating experience.
My love of debating started in High School. I was blessed to have a teacher who encouraged reading news magazines, discussing current events and critical thinking.
In college the coffee shop was the place for lively debate. In grad school it was the Seminary lounge. Sometimes it got a little heated, but we were sharpening our logic and our minds.
The only thing worse than a dull mind is the attitude it produces--an attitude that says, “Don’t bother me with the facts. My mind is made up and you’re not changing it!”
A wise person once said, “By the time most people are 30 they’re like concrete—thoroughly mixed up and firmly set.”
What keeps that from happening? Reading widely, talking with others and critical thinking.
As a result, I read constantly. I like “Letters to the Editor” and the editorial pages in the newspaper. Why? Because I get to evaluate the thinking of people who disagree with me.
Without a challenge to our assumptions, without an objection to our worldview, how do we know we are right?
“Now hold on just a minute!” someone will say. “I know I’m right because I’m right! And I believe it with all my heart.”
Okaaaaaay. Would you explain that to me one more time?
Sound thinking is especially important when it comes to spiritual matters. Faith and reason are not contradictory. They are complimentary. But not everyone sees it that way.
Comedian Bill Maher’s recent mockumentary movie, “Religulous,” insists Christianity “stops people from thinking.” Is that true? Do Christians check their brains at the door?
In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.
True, some Christians aren’t thoughtful about their faith--but that’s by choice. And while anti-intellectualism is present in some places, Christians should never make a virtue of not thinking. In fact history will support the claim that, for the most part, we haven’t.
Many of history’s greatest thinkers were Christians. Faith was central in their quest for truth.
The Bible tells us to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind.” It adds, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
God’s invitation to consider our spiritual needs says, “Come now, let us reason together.” And early Christians, like the Apostle Paul, “reasoned” with doubters.
So when it comes to faith and spirituality, how about a thoughtful discussion? Let’s get off our “talking points” and explore truth. Because the truth is all that matters.
The next time you’re in a heated debate, remember these wise words from the Bible: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of a fool gushes folly.”
A heated debate--anger, accusations or slander--doesn’t win the day. Neither does mocking another’s beliefs. Know why you believe what you believe. Then explain it as simply as you can.
If what you say is true, it’s like planting a seed. When the soil is good, it bears good fruit.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Alien Nation
Is America a sick country or are we just strange--or worse?
It’s my belief that if our founding fathers were somehow permitted to tour America today, they would not recognize it as the nation they gave their blood, sweat and tears to create.
They would think they were in an alien nation! A country of people with unfamiliar ideas.
A few weeks ago, I received an email that made me think about how far we’ve come—just since World War II. The email was reportedly written by an 80 year old man. I can’t verify its validity, but it made a lot of sense. Maybe you saw it. It’s all over the Internet.
The author believed President Bush made a terrible mistake going to war in Iraq. But he suggested that the mistake was not the war against terror but his foundational assumption.
“Bush's mistake,” he wrote, “came in his belief that this country is the same one his father fought for in World War II. It is not!”
Now hold it right there for just a minute! Not the same country? He’s kidding, right?
I wish he were. But he’s right on.
The article continued: “No, President Bush did not make a mistake in his handling of terrorism. He made the mistake of believing that we still had the courage and fortitude of our fathers. He believed that this was still the country that our fathers fought so dearly to preserve!”
“It is not the same country. America is now a cross between Sodom and Gomorrah and the Land of Oz. We did unite for a short while after 9/11, but our attitude changed when we found out that defending our country would require some sacrifices.”
“Today, for many folks, America is not at war--the military is at war. America is at the mall!”
When I read those last two paragraphs, it hit me. America has become a different country!
Instead of sacrifice, Americans are into extravagance. Instead of liberty we want license—the unbridled pursuit of any and every passion that suits our fancy. Shame on us.
John Adams, the second President of the United States, wrote that our government did not have the power to control “human passions unbridled by moral and religion.” And then he added, “Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”
In the House Judiciary Committee Report on March 27, 1854, the leaders of Congress issued the following observation: “At the time of the adoption of the Constitution and the amendments, the universal sentiment was that Christianity should be encouraged… In this age there can be no substitute for Christianity…That was the religion of the founders of the republic and they expected it to remain the religion of their descendants.”
A lot has happened in 154 years. Since then America has lost her faith, her morality, her will and her way. The question before us now is “Who will lead us and where will they take us?”
Sadly, some in America do not want God to be part of our future. They don’t believe that faith and politics belong together. They don’t want us to be a Christian nation. And when that becomes the majority view, we will truly have become an Alien Nation.
What’s the solution? As usual, the Bible has the answer. It says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD.” The word “LORD” is the special name for the God of the Bible.
It is not too late for America to return to her spiritual roots. But it only happens one person at a time. Will we listen to God when he says, “Return to me and I will return to you”?
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
It’s my belief that if our founding fathers were somehow permitted to tour America today, they would not recognize it as the nation they gave their blood, sweat and tears to create.
They would think they were in an alien nation! A country of people with unfamiliar ideas.
A few weeks ago, I received an email that made me think about how far we’ve come—just since World War II. The email was reportedly written by an 80 year old man. I can’t verify its validity, but it made a lot of sense. Maybe you saw it. It’s all over the Internet.
The author believed President Bush made a terrible mistake going to war in Iraq. But he suggested that the mistake was not the war against terror but his foundational assumption.
“Bush's mistake,” he wrote, “came in his belief that this country is the same one his father fought for in World War II. It is not!”
Now hold it right there for just a minute! Not the same country? He’s kidding, right?
I wish he were. But he’s right on.
The article continued: “No, President Bush did not make a mistake in his handling of terrorism. He made the mistake of believing that we still had the courage and fortitude of our fathers. He believed that this was still the country that our fathers fought so dearly to preserve!”
“It is not the same country. America is now a cross between Sodom and Gomorrah and the Land of Oz. We did unite for a short while after 9/11, but our attitude changed when we found out that defending our country would require some sacrifices.”
“Today, for many folks, America is not at war--the military is at war. America is at the mall!”
When I read those last two paragraphs, it hit me. America has become a different country!
Instead of sacrifice, Americans are into extravagance. Instead of liberty we want license—the unbridled pursuit of any and every passion that suits our fancy. Shame on us.
John Adams, the second President of the United States, wrote that our government did not have the power to control “human passions unbridled by moral and religion.” And then he added, “Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”
In the House Judiciary Committee Report on March 27, 1854, the leaders of Congress issued the following observation: “At the time of the adoption of the Constitution and the amendments, the universal sentiment was that Christianity should be encouraged… In this age there can be no substitute for Christianity…That was the religion of the founders of the republic and they expected it to remain the religion of their descendants.”
A lot has happened in 154 years. Since then America has lost her faith, her morality, her will and her way. The question before us now is “Who will lead us and where will they take us?”
Sadly, some in America do not want God to be part of our future. They don’t believe that faith and politics belong together. They don’t want us to be a Christian nation. And when that becomes the majority view, we will truly have become an Alien Nation.
What’s the solution? As usual, the Bible has the answer. It says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD.” The word “LORD” is the special name for the God of the Bible.
It is not too late for America to return to her spiritual roots. But it only happens one person at a time. Will we listen to God when he says, “Return to me and I will return to you”?
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Reality Check
Living large has suddenly become too expensive for Mr. and Mrs. Average American.
Do you remember Stanley Johnson? He’s the guy in a 2004 TV commercial who shows off his great family, beautiful four-bedroom home and new car. “How do I do it?” he asks. “I’m in debt up to my eyeballs!” Then he adds, “I can barely pay my finance charges.”
After the bank’s pitch to take out a home equity loan or refinance one’s mortgage, Stanley pleads, “Somebody help me!” –all the while smiling and putting on a brave face.
It’s one of my favorite commercials. (You can still see it on YouTube.com)
Now with some of the nations’ biggest banks going broke, it’s no longer funny. Pundits and Editorials are all telling us, “We got in way over our heads.” It’s time to “pay the piper.”
Well hold on just a minute! What will become of the “American Dream”?
Some say the answer is to face the truth. A “Reality Check.” --But what is the “Truth”?
Is it just that we need to tighten our belts, buckle down, put our nose to the grindstone and “git ‘er done”? To just apply some good old American grit and ingenuity?
Maybe. But what if the problem, or the “reality,” goes much deeper than that?
The heart of the issue is really the issue of our hearts. People the world over try to fill the emptiness inside with the false security of possessions. And we believe “more is better.”
Like Madonna’s 1984 hit song, “Material Girl,” we’re all material girls and guys at heart. Materialism is the true religion of capitalist western civilizations.
The dictionary defines materialism as “devotion to material wealth and possessions at the expense of spiritual and intellectual values.” So materialism is the disease. Envy and greed are the symptoms. And the end result is an economy in crisis.
We have sold our souls to get more stuff. And now we have the devil to pay. So with Stanley Johnson we hang our heads and plead, “Somebody help me!”
Will an eleventh hour government bailout solve the real problem? Not hardly.
Oh, it may alleviate a financial crisis for a while, but it doesn’t solve the issue of the heart. What do we do about the selfish possessive greed that got us into this mess?
Only God can diagnose and fix what’s wrong with the human heart.
Jesus once told a story about a rich man who accumulated vast wealth and possessions. But then he died and left it all behind. Jesus said, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
The solution, Jesus said, was to be “rich toward God.” To “store up…treasures in heaven.”
How do we do that? By focusing our lives on things that have eternal value.
The Bible says the first step is to care for your own soul. How? By putting your trust in Jesus Christ to save you and forgive your sin. The next step is to obey and follow Jesus with your life.
As you follow Christ, you learn that God is the source of our money and possessions. We only get to use them for a little while. And God’s purpose is for us to use them to serve others and point them toward a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Through the Biblical prophet, Isaiah, God calls to us today: “Come…you who have no money. Why spend money on what…does not satisfy? …Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live.”
God is the ultimate reality check. The question is, “Will we pay attention to what he says?”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Do you remember Stanley Johnson? He’s the guy in a 2004 TV commercial who shows off his great family, beautiful four-bedroom home and new car. “How do I do it?” he asks. “I’m in debt up to my eyeballs!” Then he adds, “I can barely pay my finance charges.”
After the bank’s pitch to take out a home equity loan or refinance one’s mortgage, Stanley pleads, “Somebody help me!” –all the while smiling and putting on a brave face.
It’s one of my favorite commercials. (You can still see it on YouTube.com)
Now with some of the nations’ biggest banks going broke, it’s no longer funny. Pundits and Editorials are all telling us, “We got in way over our heads.” It’s time to “pay the piper.”
Well hold on just a minute! What will become of the “American Dream”?
Some say the answer is to face the truth. A “Reality Check.” --But what is the “Truth”?
Is it just that we need to tighten our belts, buckle down, put our nose to the grindstone and “git ‘er done”? To just apply some good old American grit and ingenuity?
Maybe. But what if the problem, or the “reality,” goes much deeper than that?
The heart of the issue is really the issue of our hearts. People the world over try to fill the emptiness inside with the false security of possessions. And we believe “more is better.”
Like Madonna’s 1984 hit song, “Material Girl,” we’re all material girls and guys at heart. Materialism is the true religion of capitalist western civilizations.
The dictionary defines materialism as “devotion to material wealth and possessions at the expense of spiritual and intellectual values.” So materialism is the disease. Envy and greed are the symptoms. And the end result is an economy in crisis.
We have sold our souls to get more stuff. And now we have the devil to pay. So with Stanley Johnson we hang our heads and plead, “Somebody help me!”
Will an eleventh hour government bailout solve the real problem? Not hardly.
Oh, it may alleviate a financial crisis for a while, but it doesn’t solve the issue of the heart. What do we do about the selfish possessive greed that got us into this mess?
Only God can diagnose and fix what’s wrong with the human heart.
Jesus once told a story about a rich man who accumulated vast wealth and possessions. But then he died and left it all behind. Jesus said, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
The solution, Jesus said, was to be “rich toward God.” To “store up…treasures in heaven.”
How do we do that? By focusing our lives on things that have eternal value.
The Bible says the first step is to care for your own soul. How? By putting your trust in Jesus Christ to save you and forgive your sin. The next step is to obey and follow Jesus with your life.
As you follow Christ, you learn that God is the source of our money and possessions. We only get to use them for a little while. And God’s purpose is for us to use them to serve others and point them toward a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Through the Biblical prophet, Isaiah, God calls to us today: “Come…you who have no money. Why spend money on what…does not satisfy? …Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live.”
God is the ultimate reality check. The question is, “Will we pay attention to what he says?”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Pursuing Happiness
Are you pursuing happiness? What if the road you’re on doesn’t end there?
“Now hold it right there for just a minute. I’m an American. Happiness is my right!”
Is it? The Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Pursuing happiness and achieving happiness isn’t the same thing. As someone once wryly observed, “Happiness is in the pursuit thereof.”
So is happiness a destination or just the journey? Maybe both.
In the 1960’s a popular song declared, “Happiness is different things to different people.” And as they say, “Truer words were never spoken.”
What is happiness to you? How would you define it?
American frontier hero Daniel Boone famously said, “All you need for happiness is a good gun, a good horse and a good wife.” (I wonder how his wife felt about that!)
Fascinating new research reveals that certain choices and behaviors determine our happiness.
In a July 2008 Reader’s Digest article, “Why We’re Happy,” Arthur C. Brooks admits he “had always thought that marching to the beat of my own drummer and making up my own values as I went along were the right things to do, and that traditional values…were for suckers.”
It turns out he was in for a surprise. Brooks’ research found that the number one predictor of happiness was a person’s faith. He writes, “In general, religious Americans (those who attend a place of worship almost every week or more) are happier than those who rarely or never attend.”
Brooks also discovered that secularists were nearly twice as likely as religious people to say, “I’m a failure.”
Other happiness predictors were a strong work ethic, a good marriage, giving back through charity and living in a free society. But, while economic, religious and political freedom brings happiness, a lack of restrictions on moral behavior, did not. Loose living brought unhappiness.
Brooks adds, “People who feel they have unlimited moral choices in their lives when it comes to matters of sex or drugs, for example, tend to be unhappier.”
Did you catch that? People are happier living within the limits of Biblical morality than when they have unlimited moral choices! Why do so few see that? Because of a false view of God.
Many people view God as a stern grandfatherly type. They see him as looking down from the windows of Heaven--and when he sees someone having a good time, he says, “Now cut that out!” They think God is anti-happiness.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
The Bible gives us a picture of a holy God who loves us more than we know. He made us to experience joy, peace and fulfillment through a personal relationship with him. And he has gone out of his way to reveal himself to us through nature and through the Bible.
If that’s not your picture of God then I invite you to set aside your ideas about him and pick up a Bible again. Get a reliable modern translation like the New International Version.
Then turn to the New Testament and read the Gospel of John. Or read the story of the Lost Son in the Gospel of Luke chapter 15. Let Jesus introduce you to the God who loves you.
Only the Bible can put you on the path that leads to a joyful life now and lasts forever.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
“Now hold it right there for just a minute. I’m an American. Happiness is my right!”
Is it? The Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Pursuing happiness and achieving happiness isn’t the same thing. As someone once wryly observed, “Happiness is in the pursuit thereof.”
So is happiness a destination or just the journey? Maybe both.
In the 1960’s a popular song declared, “Happiness is different things to different people.” And as they say, “Truer words were never spoken.”
What is happiness to you? How would you define it?
American frontier hero Daniel Boone famously said, “All you need for happiness is a good gun, a good horse and a good wife.” (I wonder how his wife felt about that!)
Fascinating new research reveals that certain choices and behaviors determine our happiness.
In a July 2008 Reader’s Digest article, “Why We’re Happy,” Arthur C. Brooks admits he “had always thought that marching to the beat of my own drummer and making up my own values as I went along were the right things to do, and that traditional values…were for suckers.”
It turns out he was in for a surprise. Brooks’ research found that the number one predictor of happiness was a person’s faith. He writes, “In general, religious Americans (those who attend a place of worship almost every week or more) are happier than those who rarely or never attend.”
Brooks also discovered that secularists were nearly twice as likely as religious people to say, “I’m a failure.”
Other happiness predictors were a strong work ethic, a good marriage, giving back through charity and living in a free society. But, while economic, religious and political freedom brings happiness, a lack of restrictions on moral behavior, did not. Loose living brought unhappiness.
Brooks adds, “People who feel they have unlimited moral choices in their lives when it comes to matters of sex or drugs, for example, tend to be unhappier.”
Did you catch that? People are happier living within the limits of Biblical morality than when they have unlimited moral choices! Why do so few see that? Because of a false view of God.
Many people view God as a stern grandfatherly type. They see him as looking down from the windows of Heaven--and when he sees someone having a good time, he says, “Now cut that out!” They think God is anti-happiness.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
The Bible gives us a picture of a holy God who loves us more than we know. He made us to experience joy, peace and fulfillment through a personal relationship with him. And he has gone out of his way to reveal himself to us through nature and through the Bible.
If that’s not your picture of God then I invite you to set aside your ideas about him and pick up a Bible again. Get a reliable modern translation like the New International Version.
Then turn to the New Testament and read the Gospel of John. Or read the story of the Lost Son in the Gospel of Luke chapter 15. Let Jesus introduce you to the God who loves you.
Only the Bible can put you on the path that leads to a joyful life now and lasts forever.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Believable Hope
Is the USA “the hope of the world”? If so, we’re in big trouble.
Now don’t get me wrong. I love my country. It has a lot going for it.
But to say this country is “the hope of the world”—as a politician did several weeks ago at a national convention—is a little over the top.
Talking about hope is all the rage this election cycle. And hope is a good thing. But if our hope is in the wrong thing it will be a sad thing. A disappointed hope.
In his book “The Audacity of Hope,” Presidential candidate Barack Obama sees a future that involves repairing a “political process that is broken” and restoring a government that has fallen out of touch with people.
Amazon.com asked Obama to summarize the main idea of his book in a follow up interview. He said it was, “Get involved in an issue that you’re passionate about.”
Passion is good but, unfortunately, passion by itself doesn’t save the day. We live in a day of political polarization. The right and the left are full of passion. But they seem more intent on destroying each other than on governing effectively.
Now hold it right there for just a minute. If that’s the case, where can we find hope?
What people desperately need is the true Man of Hope. And according to the Bible, Jesus Christ and his church are the hope of the world. Jesus is the real deal.
The hope offered in Christ is a peace that Jesus said is “not of this world.” It involves a complete reconciliation that cannot be found anywhere else on the planet—reconciliation with God and with our fellow man.
The hope offered by politicians and governments is the absence of conflict. “Peace” treaties don’t actually bring peace. All they bring is the cessation of war. Ending hostilities doesn’t automatically end conflict. Anyone that’s been in a schoolyard fight knows that.
To end conflict requires changing the human heart. And the only hope of changing the human heart is the gospel or good news of Jesus Christ.
The good news is that, even though we can’t meet God’s standard of goodness (the Ten Commandments), God provided a way for us to be forgiven. And what a plan!
Jesus Christ met God’s standard perfectly. But on the cross he took sin’s punishment as our substitute. God accepts that and forgives us when we repent and turn from our sin.
Then the Bible says, “If any man be in Christ he is a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come.” And if you have ever met someone who is truly converted, the change is remarkable.
What about the church? In the New Testament book of Acts we see a church focused on serving God and serving others. They proclaimed the simple gospel of Jesus Christ: “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved.” Lives were changed. Needs were met.
What the church does that’s unique is offer Jesus Christ to the world. And when people turn to Christ they find hope where they were hopeless.
In the church people find a community that accepts, loves and encourages them to be all that God made them to be. When a church is working right it’s an amazing place!
No church is perfect. But we have a perfect Savior, Jesus Christ. Through faith in him we have peace with God and man, joy in our hearts and the forgiveness of sin.
All of that plus God’s promise of eternal life--now that’s a hope you can believe in!
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Now don’t get me wrong. I love my country. It has a lot going for it.
But to say this country is “the hope of the world”—as a politician did several weeks ago at a national convention—is a little over the top.
Talking about hope is all the rage this election cycle. And hope is a good thing. But if our hope is in the wrong thing it will be a sad thing. A disappointed hope.
In his book “The Audacity of Hope,” Presidential candidate Barack Obama sees a future that involves repairing a “political process that is broken” and restoring a government that has fallen out of touch with people.
Amazon.com asked Obama to summarize the main idea of his book in a follow up interview. He said it was, “Get involved in an issue that you’re passionate about.”
Passion is good but, unfortunately, passion by itself doesn’t save the day. We live in a day of political polarization. The right and the left are full of passion. But they seem more intent on destroying each other than on governing effectively.
Now hold it right there for just a minute. If that’s the case, where can we find hope?
What people desperately need is the true Man of Hope. And according to the Bible, Jesus Christ and his church are the hope of the world. Jesus is the real deal.
The hope offered in Christ is a peace that Jesus said is “not of this world.” It involves a complete reconciliation that cannot be found anywhere else on the planet—reconciliation with God and with our fellow man.
The hope offered by politicians and governments is the absence of conflict. “Peace” treaties don’t actually bring peace. All they bring is the cessation of war. Ending hostilities doesn’t automatically end conflict. Anyone that’s been in a schoolyard fight knows that.
To end conflict requires changing the human heart. And the only hope of changing the human heart is the gospel or good news of Jesus Christ.
The good news is that, even though we can’t meet God’s standard of goodness (the Ten Commandments), God provided a way for us to be forgiven. And what a plan!
Jesus Christ met God’s standard perfectly. But on the cross he took sin’s punishment as our substitute. God accepts that and forgives us when we repent and turn from our sin.
Then the Bible says, “If any man be in Christ he is a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come.” And if you have ever met someone who is truly converted, the change is remarkable.
What about the church? In the New Testament book of Acts we see a church focused on serving God and serving others. They proclaimed the simple gospel of Jesus Christ: “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved.” Lives were changed. Needs were met.
What the church does that’s unique is offer Jesus Christ to the world. And when people turn to Christ they find hope where they were hopeless.
In the church people find a community that accepts, loves and encourages them to be all that God made them to be. When a church is working right it’s an amazing place!
No church is perfect. But we have a perfect Savior, Jesus Christ. Through faith in him we have peace with God and man, joy in our hearts and the forgiveness of sin.
All of that plus God’s promise of eternal life--now that’s a hope you can believe in!
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Time Gap
Do you wish you had more free time? You’re not alone. And the difference between the free time you have and the free time you want is your time gap.
A Pew Research Social Trends poll showed that Americans’ top choice from a list of life's priorities was “having enough time to do the things you want.” Some two-thirds (68%) of the self-identified middle class said that free time was very important to them, more than anything else on the list. And that list included having children (62%), a successful career (59%), marriage (55%), a religious life (53%), and donating to charity or doing volunteer work (52%).
Amazingly, having free time was much more important than even being wealthy. Wealth was rated as very important by just 12 percent of the middle class.
Now hold on just a minute! Free time is more important than money? How can that be?
The way you answer that question identifies your generation. Time priorities have changed drastically compared to thirty years ago. It’s the new generation gap.
An old proverb says, “A stitch in time saves nine.” But today’s generation isn’t so much interested in saving time as they are in spending it on what THEY want to do. That’s the key.
However, doing what you want to do all the time isn’t as fulfilling as some people may think.
A privileged few have the option to pursue whatever their heart desires. But satisfaction is just as elusive for them as it is for us ordinary folks.
One of those privileged few, King Solomon, wrote about it in the Bible book of Ecclesiastes.
By most accounts Solomon was the wealthiest and wisest man in his world. He pursued politics, public works projects, the arts, the sciences, wisdom, pleasure, riches—you name it.
He thought a great deal about time, too. He mentions it 41 times in his small book.
But Solomon’s opinion is very disturbing: “Everything is meaningless.” Wow. Bummer.
Now I know what you’re thinking: “Not if I did it!” Some of you have your “Bucket List” of things you want to do before you “kick the bucket.” And you’re well on your way to finishing it.
OK, what if you accomplish everything on your list—what then? “I’ll be satisfied.” Really?
Take the time to read Solomon’s conclusions. He disagreed. Solomon observed that we’re wired to pursue purpose in life--to make our lives count for something. But most things we do don’t have much of an impact on this world. Then we die and are forgotten.
Solomon discovered that true satisfaction comes in pleasing God and enjoying life’s journey.
He also notes that God has “set eternity in the hearts of men.” Belief in life after this life seems to be a universal feature of the human race.
Solomon’s advice? Pursue God while you are young. Listen for him to speak to you. Keep the promises you’ve made to him. Fear God and obey him. Remember it is God alone who gives the ability to enjoy life and be happy.
God does want us to enjoy life. That’s why he sent Jesus Christ to die on the cross for our sin. And when we accept God’s free gift of forgiveness in Christ, our guilt is gone. For the first time we can focus on serving him and others. Our lives can then make a difference for eternity.
The real time gap is the difference between what we do for self and what we do for God.
If you truly want to live an amazing life, read the Gospel of John in the New Testament of the Bible. If you keep on reading and follow Jesus, you won’t have to worry about a time gap.
The Bible says, “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
A Pew Research Social Trends poll showed that Americans’ top choice from a list of life's priorities was “having enough time to do the things you want.” Some two-thirds (68%) of the self-identified middle class said that free time was very important to them, more than anything else on the list. And that list included having children (62%), a successful career (59%), marriage (55%), a religious life (53%), and donating to charity or doing volunteer work (52%).
Amazingly, having free time was much more important than even being wealthy. Wealth was rated as very important by just 12 percent of the middle class.
Now hold on just a minute! Free time is more important than money? How can that be?
The way you answer that question identifies your generation. Time priorities have changed drastically compared to thirty years ago. It’s the new generation gap.
An old proverb says, “A stitch in time saves nine.” But today’s generation isn’t so much interested in saving time as they are in spending it on what THEY want to do. That’s the key.
However, doing what you want to do all the time isn’t as fulfilling as some people may think.
A privileged few have the option to pursue whatever their heart desires. But satisfaction is just as elusive for them as it is for us ordinary folks.
One of those privileged few, King Solomon, wrote about it in the Bible book of Ecclesiastes.
By most accounts Solomon was the wealthiest and wisest man in his world. He pursued politics, public works projects, the arts, the sciences, wisdom, pleasure, riches—you name it.
He thought a great deal about time, too. He mentions it 41 times in his small book.
But Solomon’s opinion is very disturbing: “Everything is meaningless.” Wow. Bummer.
Now I know what you’re thinking: “Not if I did it!” Some of you have your “Bucket List” of things you want to do before you “kick the bucket.” And you’re well on your way to finishing it.
OK, what if you accomplish everything on your list—what then? “I’ll be satisfied.” Really?
Take the time to read Solomon’s conclusions. He disagreed. Solomon observed that we’re wired to pursue purpose in life--to make our lives count for something. But most things we do don’t have much of an impact on this world. Then we die and are forgotten.
Solomon discovered that true satisfaction comes in pleasing God and enjoying life’s journey.
He also notes that God has “set eternity in the hearts of men.” Belief in life after this life seems to be a universal feature of the human race.
Solomon’s advice? Pursue God while you are young. Listen for him to speak to you. Keep the promises you’ve made to him. Fear God and obey him. Remember it is God alone who gives the ability to enjoy life and be happy.
God does want us to enjoy life. That’s why he sent Jesus Christ to die on the cross for our sin. And when we accept God’s free gift of forgiveness in Christ, our guilt is gone. For the first time we can focus on serving him and others. Our lives can then make a difference for eternity.
The real time gap is the difference between what we do for self and what we do for God.
If you truly want to live an amazing life, read the Gospel of John in the New Testament of the Bible. If you keep on reading and follow Jesus, you won’t have to worry about a time gap.
The Bible says, “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Change We Can Believe In
Is politics the solution or the problem in America?
Every four years the two major political parties treat us to a convention spectacle that’s one part political grandstanding and one part tent revival served up with a side of passion.
My favorite definition of politics is this: “Poly” means “many” and “ticks” are blood-sucking parasites. So “politics” is a bunch of blood-sucking parasites.” (Smile, it’s a joke. I think.)
Now that may sound cruel if you know sincere candidates who want to bring meaningful change to our world. But something mysterious happens when a man or woman begins to breathe the rarified air in our state or nation’s capitals.
After about six months, they start to lose common sense. Or so it seems to me.
Why this happens is a sad reflection on human nature. One definition says politics involves power, authority, influence and manipulation. And well-intentioned people are often forced to compromise character and scruples in order to “bring home the bacon” (or pork barrel projects).
Well, hold on just a minute! If that’s true then where can we find hope? Good question.
Only one man offers real hope—hope we can believe in—and he’s not a politician. It’s the God-man Jesus Christ. Only he can change a person’s heart, heal their wounded soul and forgive their sin. Only Jesus can turn a conniving “political animal” into a God-serving Christ follower.
How do I know? Because Jesus has a 2,000 year track record of success.
Want an example? Read the New Testament book of Acts, chapter 9. God changed Saul of Tarsus from a murderous religious zealot into Paul, a passionate peaceful Christ follower.
The man we remember as the Apostle Paul is single-handedly responsible for the birth of Western Civilization, as we know it. He brought the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Europe and the rest, as they say, is history.
Want more examples? Check out how God changed the lives of a playboy named Augustine, a slave trader named John Newton or a political hack named Chuck Colson. All transformed.
Politicians call us to believe in ourselves. They tell us if we do we can change America and change the world. But we’ve heard that before. The changes don’t last or don’t work.
Besides, government has a poor track record when it comes to changing people for good. Our high incarceration rate and crowded prisons bear silent testimony to that fact.
Jesus calls us to believe in him. When we do the Bible says he renews our minds, fills us with peace instead of anger and he replaces our hatred with love. Instead of living a self-centered life, we have a new desire to serve God and others.
The Bible says that when we follow Jesus and put our trust in him as Lord and Savior, we are reconciled to God. Then he asks us to bring that message of peace and reconciliation to others.
Christ followers get excited about telling others how Jesus died for their sin and can change human lives. They have a joy that only God can give.
If you’ve seen God change someone who followed Jesus, you know what I mean. There’s no other explanation for it except that God has changed their heart.
Change is a hot topic this year. But if you want real, meaningful change you can believe in, look no further. Instead of politicians who often let you down, look to Jesus who will lift you up.
Follow Jesus and your life can have an impact on this world with eternal results.
Oh, by the way, no politicians were endorsed or harmed in the preparation of this article.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Every four years the two major political parties treat us to a convention spectacle that’s one part political grandstanding and one part tent revival served up with a side of passion.
My favorite definition of politics is this: “Poly” means “many” and “ticks” are blood-sucking parasites. So “politics” is a bunch of blood-sucking parasites.” (Smile, it’s a joke. I think.)
Now that may sound cruel if you know sincere candidates who want to bring meaningful change to our world. But something mysterious happens when a man or woman begins to breathe the rarified air in our state or nation’s capitals.
After about six months, they start to lose common sense. Or so it seems to me.
Why this happens is a sad reflection on human nature. One definition says politics involves power, authority, influence and manipulation. And well-intentioned people are often forced to compromise character and scruples in order to “bring home the bacon” (or pork barrel projects).
Well, hold on just a minute! If that’s true then where can we find hope? Good question.
Only one man offers real hope—hope we can believe in—and he’s not a politician. It’s the God-man Jesus Christ. Only he can change a person’s heart, heal their wounded soul and forgive their sin. Only Jesus can turn a conniving “political animal” into a God-serving Christ follower.
How do I know? Because Jesus has a 2,000 year track record of success.
Want an example? Read the New Testament book of Acts, chapter 9. God changed Saul of Tarsus from a murderous religious zealot into Paul, a passionate peaceful Christ follower.
The man we remember as the Apostle Paul is single-handedly responsible for the birth of Western Civilization, as we know it. He brought the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Europe and the rest, as they say, is history.
Want more examples? Check out how God changed the lives of a playboy named Augustine, a slave trader named John Newton or a political hack named Chuck Colson. All transformed.
Politicians call us to believe in ourselves. They tell us if we do we can change America and change the world. But we’ve heard that before. The changes don’t last or don’t work.
Besides, government has a poor track record when it comes to changing people for good. Our high incarceration rate and crowded prisons bear silent testimony to that fact.
Jesus calls us to believe in him. When we do the Bible says he renews our minds, fills us with peace instead of anger and he replaces our hatred with love. Instead of living a self-centered life, we have a new desire to serve God and others.
The Bible says that when we follow Jesus and put our trust in him as Lord and Savior, we are reconciled to God. Then he asks us to bring that message of peace and reconciliation to others.
Christ followers get excited about telling others how Jesus died for their sin and can change human lives. They have a joy that only God can give.
If you’ve seen God change someone who followed Jesus, you know what I mean. There’s no other explanation for it except that God has changed their heart.
Change is a hot topic this year. But if you want real, meaningful change you can believe in, look no further. Instead of politicians who often let you down, look to Jesus who will lift you up.
Follow Jesus and your life can have an impact on this world with eternal results.
Oh, by the way, no politicians were endorsed or harmed in the preparation of this article.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Guitar Hero Effect
Is your faith a victim of the Guitar Hero Effect?
Guitar Hero is one of the hottest video games to hit stores in a long time. Kids want it, teens want it and even adults want it. It’s THE party game that’s taken the country by storm.
What is it? It’s a music video game that makes you feel like you’re on stage at a rock concert.
Playing the game with the guitar-shaped controller simulates playing an actual guitar. Players watch a color-coded moving music track on their TV. Then they use five colored “fret buttons” and a “strum bar” instead of frets and strings to make music.
Most players are content to just play the game. Some have been inspired to learn to play a real guitar. But, for the majority, that requires more discipline than they want to practice.
For many people, playing Guitar Hero is just like the way they practice their faith.
Now hold on just a minute! How does a playing a video game compare to being a Christian?
The answer is in the word “simulate.” Guitar Hero isn’t really the same as playing a guitar. It imitates the motions and creates the impression one is really playing. But it’s all a fake. A show.
And that’s the way many people approach Christianity.
Through their family and friends they are impressed with the need to “be a Christian.” So they check it out. They discover that Christians meet on Sunday and pray to an unseen God. They also give money to help missionaries build orphanages, drill wells and build hospitals.
So people figure, “I can do that!” and join up. And they become like my friend, Doug, who told me that for a long time he was “almost a Christian.”
For many years Doug played the Christian “game.” He got quite good at it. He sang in the choir, attended church regularly, gave money and even prayed. But he was just “going through the motions.” There was no passion, no reality in his heart. It was all a show and he knew it.
One day while I talked with Doug, it was as if the lights came on for him. He understood that God loved him. That Jesus died on the cross for his sin. That if he would trust and follow Jesus Christ, his sin would be forgiven and he would become part of God’s family.
When Doug bowed his head, humbled his heart and prayed, he became a new man.
No longer did he pray just to be heard by others. He prayed to talk to his Father in Heaven. And when he read his Bible, it wasn’t to get “points” with God in the Christian “game.” It was to hear God speak to him.
Doug decided he no longer wanted to simulate being a Christian. He wanted the real thing.
What about you? Has your “faith” been more like playing a game of Guitar Hero? You think, “I look pretty good. I’ve gotten to be an expert at playing this game. I’m good enough.”
That’s the Guitar Hero Effect. But playing a Christian game is not the same as the real thing.
For you to become a true Christian takes a leap of faith and a commitment to something greater than serving yourself. It’s realizing you’re not good enough for a holy God. It’s turning from your sinful attitudes, trusting in Jesus Christ to save you and serving him with your life.
And like my friend, Doug, you will never regret it.
If you’re interested in “being” a Christian and not just “doing Christianity” then faith in Jesus Christ is the place to begin. The Bible says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved.”
Next, find a good Bible-teaching, Christ-serving church and start attending. You will find answers to the questions of life, a purpose in living for God and a joy that you can only imagine.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Guitar Hero is one of the hottest video games to hit stores in a long time. Kids want it, teens want it and even adults want it. It’s THE party game that’s taken the country by storm.
What is it? It’s a music video game that makes you feel like you’re on stage at a rock concert.
Playing the game with the guitar-shaped controller simulates playing an actual guitar. Players watch a color-coded moving music track on their TV. Then they use five colored “fret buttons” and a “strum bar” instead of frets and strings to make music.
Most players are content to just play the game. Some have been inspired to learn to play a real guitar. But, for the majority, that requires more discipline than they want to practice.
For many people, playing Guitar Hero is just like the way they practice their faith.
Now hold on just a minute! How does a playing a video game compare to being a Christian?
The answer is in the word “simulate.” Guitar Hero isn’t really the same as playing a guitar. It imitates the motions and creates the impression one is really playing. But it’s all a fake. A show.
And that’s the way many people approach Christianity.
Through their family and friends they are impressed with the need to “be a Christian.” So they check it out. They discover that Christians meet on Sunday and pray to an unseen God. They also give money to help missionaries build orphanages, drill wells and build hospitals.
So people figure, “I can do that!” and join up. And they become like my friend, Doug, who told me that for a long time he was “almost a Christian.”
For many years Doug played the Christian “game.” He got quite good at it. He sang in the choir, attended church regularly, gave money and even prayed. But he was just “going through the motions.” There was no passion, no reality in his heart. It was all a show and he knew it.
One day while I talked with Doug, it was as if the lights came on for him. He understood that God loved him. That Jesus died on the cross for his sin. That if he would trust and follow Jesus Christ, his sin would be forgiven and he would become part of God’s family.
When Doug bowed his head, humbled his heart and prayed, he became a new man.
No longer did he pray just to be heard by others. He prayed to talk to his Father in Heaven. And when he read his Bible, it wasn’t to get “points” with God in the Christian “game.” It was to hear God speak to him.
Doug decided he no longer wanted to simulate being a Christian. He wanted the real thing.
What about you? Has your “faith” been more like playing a game of Guitar Hero? You think, “I look pretty good. I’ve gotten to be an expert at playing this game. I’m good enough.”
That’s the Guitar Hero Effect. But playing a Christian game is not the same as the real thing.
For you to become a true Christian takes a leap of faith and a commitment to something greater than serving yourself. It’s realizing you’re not good enough for a holy God. It’s turning from your sinful attitudes, trusting in Jesus Christ to save you and serving him with your life.
And like my friend, Doug, you will never regret it.
If you’re interested in “being” a Christian and not just “doing Christianity” then faith in Jesus Christ is the place to begin. The Bible says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved.”
Next, find a good Bible-teaching, Christ-serving church and start attending. You will find answers to the questions of life, a purpose in living for God and a joy that you can only imagine.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Fatal Error
The Blue Screen of Death. Have you ever seen it?
We saw it at church last Sunday morning. Why? Because our church has a computer operated video projection system. It’s just the tool to connect with today’s media savvy generation.
The Blue Screen of Death is what a Windows computer displays when it suffers OS death. The OS (Operating System) is the computer program that runs the computer.
When you see the Blue Screen of Death your computer has “crashed” or “died.”
After the Blue Screen of Death appeared the first words I noticed were “Fatal Error.” I thought to myself, “That can’t be good! The service isn’t over yet—What now?”
Fatal Error means the CPU (Central Processing Unit or “brain”) stopped processing data. Any data not saved is gone forever. And you have to “reboot” or restart the machine.
Computer experts all say that sooner or later every computer will crash. The solution is to prepare in advance for that day by backing up your data. Save your work or you will lose it.
What’s sad is that many computer owners don’t believe it will ever happen to them. So they don’t invest the time or money to save their data.
I guess it stands to reason because most people act like they’re never going to die either.
Now hold on just a minute--What do computer crashes have in common with people dying?
Good question. The answer is that sooner or later both computers and people die. If we don’t think about saving the contents of either one, both our data and ours souls will be lost forever.
Many people don’t think they’ll die in the foreseeable future. And that could be a fatal error.
I once spoke to a man who was very ill and asked him this question: “When you die, what do you think you’ll find on the other side?”
He said he had never really thought about it. And he’s not alone. It’s a common response.
Now why wouldn’t you think about the one thing in life that is absolutely certain? Everyone who lives will die. And everyone who dies spends eternity somewhere.
Many people spend huge sums preparing for retirement. Others spend a good deal of time and money preplanning their funeral. And both are a good idea.
But God’s warning in the Bible to people like that was, “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?”
What an oversight--planning for life but failing to prepare for death! You lose twice. You lose all the stuff you worked for and you lose your soul in hell.
The Bible says, “Man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” Which by the way rules out reincarnation since it says we will die only once, not many times!
A Christian is simply someone who believes what the Bible says and trusts Jesus Christ to do what he said he would do--save his or her soul.
When you become a Christian, it’s like backing up your computer. You no longer have to worry about death. You’ve prepared for it because Jesus is your backup. He saves you.
After we die God will “reboot” us at the “resurrection.” Jesus did it first to show it could be done. He will raise us all to face judgment or reward in a new body.
So if you want to avoid a fatal error in life, put your faith in Jesus Christ to save you. He will give you eternal life now and Heaven forever.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
We saw it at church last Sunday morning. Why? Because our church has a computer operated video projection system. It’s just the tool to connect with today’s media savvy generation.
The Blue Screen of Death is what a Windows computer displays when it suffers OS death. The OS (Operating System) is the computer program that runs the computer.
When you see the Blue Screen of Death your computer has “crashed” or “died.”
After the Blue Screen of Death appeared the first words I noticed were “Fatal Error.” I thought to myself, “That can’t be good! The service isn’t over yet—What now?”
Fatal Error means the CPU (Central Processing Unit or “brain”) stopped processing data. Any data not saved is gone forever. And you have to “reboot” or restart the machine.
Computer experts all say that sooner or later every computer will crash. The solution is to prepare in advance for that day by backing up your data. Save your work or you will lose it.
What’s sad is that many computer owners don’t believe it will ever happen to them. So they don’t invest the time or money to save their data.
I guess it stands to reason because most people act like they’re never going to die either.
Now hold on just a minute--What do computer crashes have in common with people dying?
Good question. The answer is that sooner or later both computers and people die. If we don’t think about saving the contents of either one, both our data and ours souls will be lost forever.
Many people don’t think they’ll die in the foreseeable future. And that could be a fatal error.
I once spoke to a man who was very ill and asked him this question: “When you die, what do you think you’ll find on the other side?”
He said he had never really thought about it. And he’s not alone. It’s a common response.
Now why wouldn’t you think about the one thing in life that is absolutely certain? Everyone who lives will die. And everyone who dies spends eternity somewhere.
Many people spend huge sums preparing for retirement. Others spend a good deal of time and money preplanning their funeral. And both are a good idea.
But God’s warning in the Bible to people like that was, “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?”
What an oversight--planning for life but failing to prepare for death! You lose twice. You lose all the stuff you worked for and you lose your soul in hell.
The Bible says, “Man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” Which by the way rules out reincarnation since it says we will die only once, not many times!
A Christian is simply someone who believes what the Bible says and trusts Jesus Christ to do what he said he would do--save his or her soul.
When you become a Christian, it’s like backing up your computer. You no longer have to worry about death. You’ve prepared for it because Jesus is your backup. He saves you.
After we die God will “reboot” us at the “resurrection.” Jesus did it first to show it could be done. He will raise us all to face judgment or reward in a new body.
So if you want to avoid a fatal error in life, put your faith in Jesus Christ to save you. He will give you eternal life now and Heaven forever.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Edna’s Story
Is God in control of our world--even when bad things happen?
Read Edna’s story and you decide. I don’t know how else to explain it except for God.
On a business trip to Florida last month I met Edna. She was the hotel’s breakfast lady. Edna got up at 4 a.m. so the hotel guests could have breakfast from 6-9 a.m.
When I saw her the second day I thanked her and told her she was doing a great job. We chatted for a while and I discovered she was a Christian.
On my last morning at the hotel Edna said, “You know, God works in mysterious ways.” I’m always interested in how God works in other’s lives so I asked what she meant.
Edna said she recently bought a small used purse at a hospice store. But then she lost it at the grocery store. Sadly she had just cashed her paycheck and the cash was in the purse.
When she arrived home she discovered the purse was missing and called the store immediately. But no one had seen it or found it.
Of course she had to replace her driver’s license and credit cards right away. It was a hassle, but with identity theft such a problem she had to do it.
Two days later the store called. They found the purse. It was folded up in a shopping cart and just discovered when a customer used the cart. Everything was intact. Even the cash.
Edna realized she had tucked the purse under her arm and it fell in the cart as she put the groceries in her car. Determined to avoid a repeat, Edna went out and bought a larger purse.
As she transferred the smaller purse’s contents, she heard change jingle in it. But when she looked the purse was empty. Upon further investigation she discovered a zipper pocket in the purse with an open side seam. The change had fallen through and was under the purse’s lining.
When Edna reached in and pulled the change out she was surprised to also see a class ring.
She called her son and he found a woman’s name on the inside of the ring. After checking on the Internet he found the woman in New York. So he called and spoke with her assistant.
When her boss came in the assistant said, “You just received the strangest call from Florida!”
Returning the call the woman said the purse had been her mother’s. She thought her mom lost the ring almost 20 years earlier. After her mom died she was sure it was gone forever.
Edna's conclusion: “If I hadn't lost that purse, I never would have found the ring!”
Why do bad things happen to good people? Sometimes so God can bless others and us!
Even the Jewish Patriarch, Jacob, had to learn this. After a series of seemingly unfortunate events he complained in Genesis 42:36, “Everything is against me!”
But if you read the rest of the story you discover what Jacob learned: God was blessing him! It just took a while for him to see it. That’s because God’s schedule is often different than ours.
And the same is true for everyone who trusts in the God of the Bible. Jesus never fails.
In Jeremiah 29:11-13 God speaks through the prophet and says to his people, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Listen--either God is in control or there are an amazing amount of coincidences in our world.
Will you trust God? He is good. All the time. Even if things don’t make sense now, they will later. Why? Because God is faithful and he’s not going to lose his reputation on you or me.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Read Edna’s story and you decide. I don’t know how else to explain it except for God.
On a business trip to Florida last month I met Edna. She was the hotel’s breakfast lady. Edna got up at 4 a.m. so the hotel guests could have breakfast from 6-9 a.m.
When I saw her the second day I thanked her and told her she was doing a great job. We chatted for a while and I discovered she was a Christian.
On my last morning at the hotel Edna said, “You know, God works in mysterious ways.” I’m always interested in how God works in other’s lives so I asked what she meant.
Edna said she recently bought a small used purse at a hospice store. But then she lost it at the grocery store. Sadly she had just cashed her paycheck and the cash was in the purse.
When she arrived home she discovered the purse was missing and called the store immediately. But no one had seen it or found it.
Of course she had to replace her driver’s license and credit cards right away. It was a hassle, but with identity theft such a problem she had to do it.
Two days later the store called. They found the purse. It was folded up in a shopping cart and just discovered when a customer used the cart. Everything was intact. Even the cash.
Edna realized she had tucked the purse under her arm and it fell in the cart as she put the groceries in her car. Determined to avoid a repeat, Edna went out and bought a larger purse.
As she transferred the smaller purse’s contents, she heard change jingle in it. But when she looked the purse was empty. Upon further investigation she discovered a zipper pocket in the purse with an open side seam. The change had fallen through and was under the purse’s lining.
When Edna reached in and pulled the change out she was surprised to also see a class ring.
She called her son and he found a woman’s name on the inside of the ring. After checking on the Internet he found the woman in New York. So he called and spoke with her assistant.
When her boss came in the assistant said, “You just received the strangest call from Florida!”
Returning the call the woman said the purse had been her mother’s. She thought her mom lost the ring almost 20 years earlier. After her mom died she was sure it was gone forever.
Edna's conclusion: “If I hadn't lost that purse, I never would have found the ring!”
Why do bad things happen to good people? Sometimes so God can bless others and us!
Even the Jewish Patriarch, Jacob, had to learn this. After a series of seemingly unfortunate events he complained in Genesis 42:36, “Everything is against me!”
But if you read the rest of the story you discover what Jacob learned: God was blessing him! It just took a while for him to see it. That’s because God’s schedule is often different than ours.
And the same is true for everyone who trusts in the God of the Bible. Jesus never fails.
In Jeremiah 29:11-13 God speaks through the prophet and says to his people, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Listen--either God is in control or there are an amazing amount of coincidences in our world.
Will you trust God? He is good. All the time. Even if things don’t make sense now, they will later. Why? Because God is faithful and he’s not going to lose his reputation on you or me.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Count the Cost
Would you obey God if it cost everything you had?
Three hundred years ago Alexander Mack and a group of seven Christians risked their lives to do something we take for granted. They were baptized.
“Now hold on just a minute. Why would Christian baptism be dangerous?”
Religion was controlled by the State in 18th Century Germany. Each province’s prince chose which Church his citizens attended. And the State enforced the rules of Church as law.
To be a Christian in that time meant to be baptized as an infant and agree with Church beliefs. How one lived didn’t matter much at all.
Alexander Mack was influenced by a new idea called Pietism. Pietists believed Christians should follow the teachings of Jesus and live their faith every day. Such a life, they felt, should show honesty, humility and Christian love.
Another group that affected Mack was the Mennonites. They were punished by the State because they didn’t baptize their infants. Instead they baptized adults who chose to follow Jesus.
Eventually Mack began meeting with others to study and discuss the Bible. They talked about how Jesus’ teachings should affect their lives. But church leaders of that day didn’t want others studying and teaching from the Bible.
Since they were not following the laws of the Church and the State, Mack’s group was threatened with arrest. But they bravely continued obeying the Bible.
Jesus told several stories in the Bible about the cost of following him. He said the cost was complete surrender to him as Lord. Mack’s group counted the cost and obeyed Jesus.
In August of 1708, Alexander Mack gathered with four other men and three women by the Eider River in Schwarzenau, Germany. After singing hymns and reading Jesus’ words about counting the cost, the eight brave Christians were baptized.
As word of the baptisms spread people came to hear what this new group believed. At first they were called New Baptists and then German Baptists. Soon the group began to grow.
Because the religious climate in Europe was not friendly to groups like Mack’s the new church eventually moved to America. William Penn invited them to settle in Pennsylvania.
Soon a church was started in Germantown near Philadelphia. They became known as the German Baptist Brethren.
Enjoying their new freedom in America, Brethren churches grew and began printing a newspaper. They also printed the first Bible from moveable type cast in America (in German).
But soon the Brethren had to count the cost again. As the colonies moved toward war, Brethren were persecuted for refusing to take an oath of allegiance to the King of England. They also refused to take up weapons to fight because of their peaceful nature.
As a result many were forced to flee and settled in the Shenandoah Valley and the Midwest.
Last weekend almost one thousand spiritual descendants of Mack’s movement gathered in Schwarzenau, Germany to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the first Brethren baptism.
Today Brethren churches are spread around the world. Just like throwing a stone in a river sends out ripples, Mack’s actions have impacted the lives of thousands of people today. And it’s all because one man listened and counted the cost when Jesus said, “Follow me.”
As a Brethren pastor I still invite people to count the cost and follow Jesus Christ as Lord.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Three hundred years ago Alexander Mack and a group of seven Christians risked their lives to do something we take for granted. They were baptized.
“Now hold on just a minute. Why would Christian baptism be dangerous?”
Religion was controlled by the State in 18th Century Germany. Each province’s prince chose which Church his citizens attended. And the State enforced the rules of Church as law.
To be a Christian in that time meant to be baptized as an infant and agree with Church beliefs. How one lived didn’t matter much at all.
Alexander Mack was influenced by a new idea called Pietism. Pietists believed Christians should follow the teachings of Jesus and live their faith every day. Such a life, they felt, should show honesty, humility and Christian love.
Another group that affected Mack was the Mennonites. They were punished by the State because they didn’t baptize their infants. Instead they baptized adults who chose to follow Jesus.
Eventually Mack began meeting with others to study and discuss the Bible. They talked about how Jesus’ teachings should affect their lives. But church leaders of that day didn’t want others studying and teaching from the Bible.
Since they were not following the laws of the Church and the State, Mack’s group was threatened with arrest. But they bravely continued obeying the Bible.
Jesus told several stories in the Bible about the cost of following him. He said the cost was complete surrender to him as Lord. Mack’s group counted the cost and obeyed Jesus.
In August of 1708, Alexander Mack gathered with four other men and three women by the Eider River in Schwarzenau, Germany. After singing hymns and reading Jesus’ words about counting the cost, the eight brave Christians were baptized.
As word of the baptisms spread people came to hear what this new group believed. At first they were called New Baptists and then German Baptists. Soon the group began to grow.
Because the religious climate in Europe was not friendly to groups like Mack’s the new church eventually moved to America. William Penn invited them to settle in Pennsylvania.
Soon a church was started in Germantown near Philadelphia. They became known as the German Baptist Brethren.
Enjoying their new freedom in America, Brethren churches grew and began printing a newspaper. They also printed the first Bible from moveable type cast in America (in German).
But soon the Brethren had to count the cost again. As the colonies moved toward war, Brethren were persecuted for refusing to take an oath of allegiance to the King of England. They also refused to take up weapons to fight because of their peaceful nature.
As a result many were forced to flee and settled in the Shenandoah Valley and the Midwest.
Last weekend almost one thousand spiritual descendants of Mack’s movement gathered in Schwarzenau, Germany to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the first Brethren baptism.
Today Brethren churches are spread around the world. Just like throwing a stone in a river sends out ripples, Mack’s actions have impacted the lives of thousands of people today. And it’s all because one man listened and counted the cost when Jesus said, “Follow me.”
As a Brethren pastor I still invite people to count the cost and follow Jesus Christ as Lord.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, July 28, 2008
The Christian Test
Question: “When is a “Christian” a true Christian? Answer: “When he or she--”
“Wait--hold on just a minute! Who decides what makes one a true follower of Jesus Christ?”
You’re right. It’s not up to me. Only God decides what makes a Christian a true Christian. And his book, the Bible, tells us what that is.
Some believe that to be a Christian all you do is believe in God, go to church and pray. But, as I‘ve pointed out before, Jesus didn’t call anyone to be a Christian. He called us to follow him.
Before the Bible even mentions the word “Christian,” it talks about becoming a “child of God” instead of being a “child of the devil.” So how does one become a “child of God”?
We must receive Jesus Christ. The Bible says, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Sounds simple enough.
In the framework of the New Testament, “receiving” Jesus meant accepting him for who he claimed to be: the divine Son of God who died for the sins of the world so he could save people everywhere from their sin. It didn’t just mean agreeing that he is the Savior.
When you “believe in his name” you trust in Jesus Christ to forgive your sin and make you part of God’s forever family. But you must believe for yourself. No one else can do it for you.
What if you were baptized as a baby? If so your parents made a wonderful commitment to bring you up in the church. But infants can’t “receive him” and “believe in his name.”
Another scripture makes it clearer: “If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” It’s obvious that a baby cannot yet “confess” or “believe.”
So what should you do if you were baptized as a baby? Complete your parents’ intentions. Their hope was that you would choose to follow Jesus with your life. So put your trust in him.
The church cannot save you. The Bible says that only personal faith in Christ can save you.
Perhaps you know someone who says they have trusted in Christ but their life or their lips tell an entirely different story. What about that?
We cannot judge what has happened in another’s heart. God will do that. But the Bible does say to “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course you fail the test.”
The Bible adds, “Make your calling and election sure…. For if you do…you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
To pass the Christian Test, first check if you have personally received and trusted in Jesus. Then examine your life. Are you growing in “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control”? Those are the result of God’s work in your heart.
Next, do you love to obey God? The Bible says, “Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
If you claim to be a Christian, go to church and hear the Bible taught, but don’t obey God, you are deceiving yourself. Sadly that’s what so many do.
Some say, “But I’m trying!” That’s nice. But as Jedi Master Yoda said to Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars,” “Do or do not. There is no ‘try.’” Simple but profound.
So how can you tell if you are a true Christian? Answer: If you trust in Christ and obey him.
God helps true Christians obey him and gives them joy. I wonder--do you pass the test?
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
“Wait--hold on just a minute! Who decides what makes one a true follower of Jesus Christ?”
You’re right. It’s not up to me. Only God decides what makes a Christian a true Christian. And his book, the Bible, tells us what that is.
Some believe that to be a Christian all you do is believe in God, go to church and pray. But, as I‘ve pointed out before, Jesus didn’t call anyone to be a Christian. He called us to follow him.
Before the Bible even mentions the word “Christian,” it talks about becoming a “child of God” instead of being a “child of the devil.” So how does one become a “child of God”?
We must receive Jesus Christ. The Bible says, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Sounds simple enough.
In the framework of the New Testament, “receiving” Jesus meant accepting him for who he claimed to be: the divine Son of God who died for the sins of the world so he could save people everywhere from their sin. It didn’t just mean agreeing that he is the Savior.
When you “believe in his name” you trust in Jesus Christ to forgive your sin and make you part of God’s forever family. But you must believe for yourself. No one else can do it for you.
What if you were baptized as a baby? If so your parents made a wonderful commitment to bring you up in the church. But infants can’t “receive him” and “believe in his name.”
Another scripture makes it clearer: “If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” It’s obvious that a baby cannot yet “confess” or “believe.”
So what should you do if you were baptized as a baby? Complete your parents’ intentions. Their hope was that you would choose to follow Jesus with your life. So put your trust in him.
The church cannot save you. The Bible says that only personal faith in Christ can save you.
Perhaps you know someone who says they have trusted in Christ but their life or their lips tell an entirely different story. What about that?
We cannot judge what has happened in another’s heart. God will do that. But the Bible does say to “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course you fail the test.”
The Bible adds, “Make your calling and election sure…. For if you do…you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
To pass the Christian Test, first check if you have personally received and trusted in Jesus. Then examine your life. Are you growing in “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control”? Those are the result of God’s work in your heart.
Next, do you love to obey God? The Bible says, “Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
If you claim to be a Christian, go to church and hear the Bible taught, but don’t obey God, you are deceiving yourself. Sadly that’s what so many do.
Some say, “But I’m trying!” That’s nice. But as Jedi Master Yoda said to Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars,” “Do or do not. There is no ‘try.’” Simple but profound.
So how can you tell if you are a true Christian? Answer: If you trust in Christ and obey him.
God helps true Christians obey him and gives them joy. I wonder--do you pass the test?
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Identity Theft
If someone stole your identity, how could you get it back?
Identity theft is the 21st Century crime. My dictionary defines it as “the fraudulent acquisition and use of a person's private identifying information, usually for financial gain.”
Maybe you’ve already had your identity stolen. I have. And it’s hard to get it back.
Several years ago someone emptied my bank account by posing as me on the Internet. Two months ago I began receiving 30 telemarketing calls a day. Someone tried to harass me by signing me up for information from online companies.
My tormentor even went so far as to sign me up for a long distance service I didn’t want.
Now each of those companies thought I was someone I was not—either a potential customer or, in the case of the long distance company, an actual customer. But I wasn’t.
Someone with a hidden agenda was misrepresenting me and I had to convince the companies who I really was. And the same thing has happened to Jesus Christ.
Now hold on just a minute. Jesus Christ suffered from identity theft?
Yes. And if those who misrepresent him fool us, it will result in more than a financial loss!
There are those today who tell us that you can become a god like Jesus. Others say he was less than divine. That he was just an ordinary man but a great teacher. Or he was a prophet like Buddha or Mohammed. Some refer to a sacred mushroom as “Jesus.” Really!
You owe it to yourself to discover the truth. Why? Because where you spend eternity rides on your answer to two questions: 1) “Who is Jesus Christ?” and 2) What will you do with Jesus?
The Bible gives God’s answer to both questions. First it calls Jesus the “Word of God.” It says, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.”
Not “a god” but “God.” And if anyone tells you differently, they have stolen Jesus’ identity.
Listen to Jesus words: “Before Abraham was born, I AM!” The words “I AM” translate a special holy name for God in the Jewish Bible—what Christians call the Old Testament. And since Abraham lived around 2000 B.C., Jesus was saying he existed before Abraham.
Another time Jesus said, “I and the Father are one.” Those who heard him understood he was claiming to be the Creator God of the Bible. They told Jesus they were going to stone him “Because you a mere man claim to be God.”
So be careful where you get your facts about Jesus. Even some groups calling themselves a “church” have tried to steal Jesus’ identity and misrepresent him. But the truth is easy to find.
Your best source is the Bible itself. Don’t take my word for it. Pick up a Bible and read what it says about Jesus. Get a reliable modern translation. Avoid groups claiming to be the only ones with the truth or the right translation. Run if they won’t let you question what they teach.
A good place to start is in the New Testament Gospel of John. John was one of Jesus’ friends and records what he saw as an eyewitness. Plus he doesn’t have a hidden agenda.
What should you do with Jesus? John tells us: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that by believing you may have life in his name.”
The truth is that through Jesus Christ you can live your life the way God intended. You can experience true forgiveness for your failures. You can find a lifelong purpose. And you can have an assurance and a peace about eternal life that is available nowhere else.
The Bible says Jesus is the Son of God who died for sin and rose from the dead. Trust in him.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Identity theft is the 21st Century crime. My dictionary defines it as “the fraudulent acquisition and use of a person's private identifying information, usually for financial gain.”
Maybe you’ve already had your identity stolen. I have. And it’s hard to get it back.
Several years ago someone emptied my bank account by posing as me on the Internet. Two months ago I began receiving 30 telemarketing calls a day. Someone tried to harass me by signing me up for information from online companies.
My tormentor even went so far as to sign me up for a long distance service I didn’t want.
Now each of those companies thought I was someone I was not—either a potential customer or, in the case of the long distance company, an actual customer. But I wasn’t.
Someone with a hidden agenda was misrepresenting me and I had to convince the companies who I really was. And the same thing has happened to Jesus Christ.
Now hold on just a minute. Jesus Christ suffered from identity theft?
Yes. And if those who misrepresent him fool us, it will result in more than a financial loss!
There are those today who tell us that you can become a god like Jesus. Others say he was less than divine. That he was just an ordinary man but a great teacher. Or he was a prophet like Buddha or Mohammed. Some refer to a sacred mushroom as “Jesus.” Really!
You owe it to yourself to discover the truth. Why? Because where you spend eternity rides on your answer to two questions: 1) “Who is Jesus Christ?” and 2) What will you do with Jesus?
The Bible gives God’s answer to both questions. First it calls Jesus the “Word of God.” It says, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.”
Not “a god” but “God.” And if anyone tells you differently, they have stolen Jesus’ identity.
Listen to Jesus words: “Before Abraham was born, I AM!” The words “I AM” translate a special holy name for God in the Jewish Bible—what Christians call the Old Testament. And since Abraham lived around 2000 B.C., Jesus was saying he existed before Abraham.
Another time Jesus said, “I and the Father are one.” Those who heard him understood he was claiming to be the Creator God of the Bible. They told Jesus they were going to stone him “Because you a mere man claim to be God.”
So be careful where you get your facts about Jesus. Even some groups calling themselves a “church” have tried to steal Jesus’ identity and misrepresent him. But the truth is easy to find.
Your best source is the Bible itself. Don’t take my word for it. Pick up a Bible and read what it says about Jesus. Get a reliable modern translation. Avoid groups claiming to be the only ones with the truth or the right translation. Run if they won’t let you question what they teach.
A good place to start is in the New Testament Gospel of John. John was one of Jesus’ friends and records what he saw as an eyewitness. Plus he doesn’t have a hidden agenda.
What should you do with Jesus? John tells us: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that by believing you may have life in his name.”
The truth is that through Jesus Christ you can live your life the way God intended. You can experience true forgiveness for your failures. You can find a lifelong purpose. And you can have an assurance and a peace about eternal life that is available nowhere else.
The Bible says Jesus is the Son of God who died for sin and rose from the dead. Trust in him.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Blessing Myth
Would you like God to bless you? Wait--don’t answer until you know what you’re asking for.
I know what you’re probably thinking. “He’s crazy! Of course I want God to bless me!”
Well, hold on just a minute. What if your idea and God’s idea of blessing don’t match up?
Our idea of “blessings” is usually things. Stuff. You know—money, cars, gadgets, games, houses and vacations in exotic places. But that’s a myth. It’s not completely accurate.
Some preachers will even say that God wants to give you things like that. And God may. But he may not. God’s plan is not the same for everyone.
To find out how God may bless you, check your Bible. One reason it records the life stories of so many people is so we can learn from their examples.
Take Mary the mother of Jesus, for instance. Speaking of her the Bible says, “Blessed are you among women.” We would say, “Amen! She became the mother of Jesus. What a joy!”
Yes, but stop and think for a minute. What did it mean for Mary to be “blessed”?
Mary lived in a small town. Did you ever think about what the gossip was like once she started to show? Most people today have heard of the “virgin birth,” but what would Mary say? How could she explain it to her friends? Who would understand or believe her?
Instead she would have been shunned. Her family and friends wouldn’t have understood.
And the talking! The whispering behind her back. The “looks.” On top of that, the punishment for pregnancy outside of marriage could be quite severe.
In fact the Bible says that her husband-to-be even thought to “divorce her quietly” to avoid the public disgrace of her day. And he would have if God hadn’t explained to him in a dream what was happening.
Then Mary was told that her son would “cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against…. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
When Jesus began his ministry, Mary no doubt found his words and actions confusing and troubling. She didn’t understand yet what he had come to do.
Then he was arrested. And she had to watch him die a horrible death without being able to do a thing to help her son! Imagine her grief.
Yet all of that was a part of God’s blessing in her life. Because through her joy, her pain and her loss, God provided a Savior—not only for her but also for the whole world.
Jesus himself pointed out the unusual nature of God’s blessing. He said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.”
So being blessed by God is not what we expect. That’s because God sees the “big picture.” The Bible says God is able to work all things together “for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
When life doesn’t make sense we have this assurance: If you seek God, love him and obey him then he will bless you. It may not be what you expect. Or it may be better than you expect!
Jesus said, “Everyone who has left houses or brother or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.”
Sacrifice and suffering are sometimes the lot of God’s children. But he promises to guide, provide and protect. All of that and Heaven, too! Now that’s being blessed.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
I know what you’re probably thinking. “He’s crazy! Of course I want God to bless me!”
Well, hold on just a minute. What if your idea and God’s idea of blessing don’t match up?
Our idea of “blessings” is usually things. Stuff. You know—money, cars, gadgets, games, houses and vacations in exotic places. But that’s a myth. It’s not completely accurate.
Some preachers will even say that God wants to give you things like that. And God may. But he may not. God’s plan is not the same for everyone.
To find out how God may bless you, check your Bible. One reason it records the life stories of so many people is so we can learn from their examples.
Take Mary the mother of Jesus, for instance. Speaking of her the Bible says, “Blessed are you among women.” We would say, “Amen! She became the mother of Jesus. What a joy!”
Yes, but stop and think for a minute. What did it mean for Mary to be “blessed”?
Mary lived in a small town. Did you ever think about what the gossip was like once she started to show? Most people today have heard of the “virgin birth,” but what would Mary say? How could she explain it to her friends? Who would understand or believe her?
Instead she would have been shunned. Her family and friends wouldn’t have understood.
And the talking! The whispering behind her back. The “looks.” On top of that, the punishment for pregnancy outside of marriage could be quite severe.
In fact the Bible says that her husband-to-be even thought to “divorce her quietly” to avoid the public disgrace of her day. And he would have if God hadn’t explained to him in a dream what was happening.
Then Mary was told that her son would “cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against…. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
When Jesus began his ministry, Mary no doubt found his words and actions confusing and troubling. She didn’t understand yet what he had come to do.
Then he was arrested. And she had to watch him die a horrible death without being able to do a thing to help her son! Imagine her grief.
Yet all of that was a part of God’s blessing in her life. Because through her joy, her pain and her loss, God provided a Savior—not only for her but also for the whole world.
Jesus himself pointed out the unusual nature of God’s blessing. He said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.”
So being blessed by God is not what we expect. That’s because God sees the “big picture.” The Bible says God is able to work all things together “for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
When life doesn’t make sense we have this assurance: If you seek God, love him and obey him then he will bless you. It may not be what you expect. Or it may be better than you expect!
Jesus said, “Everyone who has left houses or brother or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.”
Sacrifice and suffering are sometimes the lot of God’s children. But he promises to guide, provide and protect. All of that and Heaven, too! Now that’s being blessed.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Christian or Not?
Would you call someone a Christian who doesn’t believe what Christ taught?
Probably not.
You might call them a non-Christian. That would make more sense.
Well what about people who call themselves Christians but disagree with Jesus?
Now hold it right there for just a minute. How can a Christian disagree with Jesus?
Good question. My dictionary defines a Christian as one who believes Jesus was sent by God to save the world. It also says that Christians accept and follow his teachings and example.
A person was called a “Christian” in the first century because he or she believed Jesus was the Savior and turned to him for forgiveness from sin. “Christian” means “Christ follower.”
When Jesus Christ walked the earth he claimed to be God in human flesh. Not just another teacher or prophet. God. He offered his miracles as evidence.
Those who believed him followed him. And when he taught that Heaven was a real place and that he was going there, they wanted to know the way to get there.
Jesus’ simple answer leaves no room for misunderstanding. He said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Another time he added, “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved.”
It’s clear that Jesus taught he is the only way to salvation from sin and an eternal home in heaven. He said he was “THE” way and “THE” door. Not just “A” way or “A” door.
Fast forward to 2008. A Pew Forum poll found 70 per cent of Americans, including 57 per cent of Evangelical Christians, agree that “many religions can lead to eternal life.”
While we might wish it were so, no evidence exists to support the view that “many religions can lead to eternal life.” But as Americans, we seem to think we can vote on everything--even truth!
Only one person has ever claimed to be the Son of God who could prove it. That was Jesus Christ. He predicted that when he was killed, he would rise from the dead. And he did.
Those who followed Jesus also found that his power transformed their lives. As a result, the Bible records they taught what Jesus taught—that salvation is found in Christ alone.
They preached (and the Bible proclaims), “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
Does that sound like “many religions can lead to eternal life”? It doesn’t to me either.
We must choose between the Church of Wishful Thinking and following Jesus Christ. The Church of Wishful Thinking offers a “hope so” religion. Jesus Christ offers truth.
The Bible says, “This is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may KNOW that you have eternal life.”
So you can go with the majority of Americans and have a “Hope so” religion or follow Jesus Christ who offers “Know so” truth.
A Christian believes in Jesus Christ and follows him. Those who don’t believe what Jesus taught may be religious but they’re not following Christ. So they’re not “Christian.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Probably not.
You might call them a non-Christian. That would make more sense.
Well what about people who call themselves Christians but disagree with Jesus?
Now hold it right there for just a minute. How can a Christian disagree with Jesus?
Good question. My dictionary defines a Christian as one who believes Jesus was sent by God to save the world. It also says that Christians accept and follow his teachings and example.
A person was called a “Christian” in the first century because he or she believed Jesus was the Savior and turned to him for forgiveness from sin. “Christian” means “Christ follower.”
When Jesus Christ walked the earth he claimed to be God in human flesh. Not just another teacher or prophet. God. He offered his miracles as evidence.
Those who believed him followed him. And when he taught that Heaven was a real place and that he was going there, they wanted to know the way to get there.
Jesus’ simple answer leaves no room for misunderstanding. He said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Another time he added, “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved.”
It’s clear that Jesus taught he is the only way to salvation from sin and an eternal home in heaven. He said he was “THE” way and “THE” door. Not just “A” way or “A” door.
Fast forward to 2008. A Pew Forum poll found 70 per cent of Americans, including 57 per cent of Evangelical Christians, agree that “many religions can lead to eternal life.”
While we might wish it were so, no evidence exists to support the view that “many religions can lead to eternal life.” But as Americans, we seem to think we can vote on everything--even truth!
Only one person has ever claimed to be the Son of God who could prove it. That was Jesus Christ. He predicted that when he was killed, he would rise from the dead. And he did.
Those who followed Jesus also found that his power transformed their lives. As a result, the Bible records they taught what Jesus taught—that salvation is found in Christ alone.
They preached (and the Bible proclaims), “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
Does that sound like “many religions can lead to eternal life”? It doesn’t to me either.
We must choose between the Church of Wishful Thinking and following Jesus Christ. The Church of Wishful Thinking offers a “hope so” religion. Jesus Christ offers truth.
The Bible says, “This is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may KNOW that you have eternal life.”
So you can go with the majority of Americans and have a “Hope so” religion or follow Jesus Christ who offers “Know so” truth.
A Christian believes in Jesus Christ and follows him. Those who don’t believe what Jesus taught may be religious but they’re not following Christ. So they’re not “Christian.”
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Where Freedom Ends
We’re proud of our freedom in America. But freedom has its limits.
To forget that is to do so at our own peril. Like the immigrant I once read about.
As the boat neared New York harbor, the Statue of Liberty came in to view. The sight of that majestic lady and the city’s skyline was more than the old man could bear. He began jumping up and down shouting, “I’m free! I’m really free!”
He had heard that in this new land you could speak your mind without fear. That the police were your friends. That a man could do just about anything he wanted.
When the boat docked at Ellis Island, the new immigrant was the first one down the gangplank. He immediately ran up to a man and punched him in the nose.
Bleeding profusely, the American decked the old man. In shock he cried, “Why did you hit me? This is a free country. I can do what I want!”
“Sure, buddy,” said the American, “But your freedom ends where my nose begins!”
Now that story might be true. But our forefathers understood the danger before it happened. And they crafted a land where privilege is balanced with responsibility.
Freedom in America is not the ability to do whatever you want without constraints. A good citizen is one who exercises his choices with wisdom and respect for the law.
I’m old enough to remember when schools used to give awards to students who showed “Good Citizenship.” To receive such an award was a real honor. But not today.
Today it’s “cool” to be “bad.” To ignore the rules. So doing what you want and getting away with it is one of the ultimate highs. A real “rush.”
A student’s T-shirt I saw not long ago sums up such an attitude. It said, “It’s not illegal if you don’t get caught.”
Hold it right there for just a minute.
Would you want to live in a country with that motto? I wouldn’t. Who could you trust? No one. And unless you were the biggest, strongest, fastest and smartest, you wouldn’t be safe.
Today America is on the verge of trading liberty for license—freedom with no limits. The courts seem to find new rights every day that our founding fathers never dreamed of!
And when personal freedoms trump the law, we descend into a hell of our own making.
What’s the solution? The French historian and political scientist Alexis de Tocqueville observed, “Liberty cannot be established without morality, nor morality without faith.”
The Bible has the only answer that always works. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”
Did you catch that? Obedience brings true freedom.
When we respect our nation’s laws and follow them we are free from fear of punishment. And, as Jesus pointed out, the same is true in the spiritual realm.
Obeying God brings freedom from sin’s punishment. Instead of fear we live at peace with God and others. A free society works only when its citizens practice moral goodness.
Unrestricted freedom ends where the law begins. The law exists to punish the lawless.
Real freedom starts with the truth. Not just any truth but the truth about Jesus Christ. And the truth of Christ is that the lawless can find forgiveness in his name. And true liberty.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
To forget that is to do so at our own peril. Like the immigrant I once read about.
As the boat neared New York harbor, the Statue of Liberty came in to view. The sight of that majestic lady and the city’s skyline was more than the old man could bear. He began jumping up and down shouting, “I’m free! I’m really free!”
He had heard that in this new land you could speak your mind without fear. That the police were your friends. That a man could do just about anything he wanted.
When the boat docked at Ellis Island, the new immigrant was the first one down the gangplank. He immediately ran up to a man and punched him in the nose.
Bleeding profusely, the American decked the old man. In shock he cried, “Why did you hit me? This is a free country. I can do what I want!”
“Sure, buddy,” said the American, “But your freedom ends where my nose begins!”
Now that story might be true. But our forefathers understood the danger before it happened. And they crafted a land where privilege is balanced with responsibility.
Freedom in America is not the ability to do whatever you want without constraints. A good citizen is one who exercises his choices with wisdom and respect for the law.
I’m old enough to remember when schools used to give awards to students who showed “Good Citizenship.” To receive such an award was a real honor. But not today.
Today it’s “cool” to be “bad.” To ignore the rules. So doing what you want and getting away with it is one of the ultimate highs. A real “rush.”
A student’s T-shirt I saw not long ago sums up such an attitude. It said, “It’s not illegal if you don’t get caught.”
Hold it right there for just a minute.
Would you want to live in a country with that motto? I wouldn’t. Who could you trust? No one. And unless you were the biggest, strongest, fastest and smartest, you wouldn’t be safe.
Today America is on the verge of trading liberty for license—freedom with no limits. The courts seem to find new rights every day that our founding fathers never dreamed of!
And when personal freedoms trump the law, we descend into a hell of our own making.
What’s the solution? The French historian and political scientist Alexis de Tocqueville observed, “Liberty cannot be established without morality, nor morality without faith.”
The Bible has the only answer that always works. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”
Did you catch that? Obedience brings true freedom.
When we respect our nation’s laws and follow them we are free from fear of punishment. And, as Jesus pointed out, the same is true in the spiritual realm.
Obeying God brings freedom from sin’s punishment. Instead of fear we live at peace with God and others. A free society works only when its citizens practice moral goodness.
Unrestricted freedom ends where the law begins. The law exists to punish the lawless.
Real freedom starts with the truth. Not just any truth but the truth about Jesus Christ. And the truth of Christ is that the lawless can find forgiveness in his name. And true liberty.
Listen to the Bible; it’s great for your soul!
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