Saving the Best for Last (John 2:10)

As I enter the latter part of my middle age, I grow increasingly aware of my own mortality. In this past year, I have given four eulogies for family and friends. At these memorial services, I listen to a recounting of the life and accomplishments of the deceased. Only rarely do I hear an example when the last years of a person’s life were the most productive and meaningful. As I listen to these histories, I am reminded of my life and pray that I will be used by God for even greater things than what I am presently doing.

...and said to him, “ Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.”
John 2:10 (ESV)

Like the first miracle Jesus performed at the wedding in Cana, God is saving the best for last for all of us. I may be tempted to slow down and saunter into retirement but if I am truly serving God, I should be looking for more opportunities to serve rather than withdraw from life. I have spent my life working and raising a family and God has richly blessed me. But all those experiences are to prepare me for the next step in my journey with God. Will it mean mentoring younger Christians? Will it mean new ministries in church? Will it mean new fellowships with brothers and sisters in Christ working in distant lands? All I know is the blessings I have received will pale in comparison to the future blessings that God will give me, in this life and in Heaven with Him.

I pray that God will allow me to save my best for these last years and finish strong!

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"I Believe in Faith" (Hebrews 11:6)

I recently read an online article written by a Christian who defended his choice to teach his children about God and Christianity. As might be expected, the editorial responses ranged from praise to ridicule to hostility. Many quoted Biblical passages out of context as proof that Christianity was man-made and full of contradictions.

I usually gloss over these responses but one did catch my eye.

“...yet when people ask me do you believe in GOD ... I say ..well  I just believe in FAITH... it's different for everyone.”

This person’s viewpoint is not unique. A quick search on the internet reveals numerous articles proclaiming that it is faith, and not God, a god, or a religion, that is important. A corollary to this is while they may believe in the existence of God, they aver that no human mind can ever truly understand or comprehend an infinite Being. Therefore, their lives and discussions center upon experiencing God rather than understanding and knowing Him.

How much do you need to know about God before it is too much and you don’t need to go any further?  How do you decide that some knowledge and facts about God are valid while other facts are unknowable? At what point do you need to limit your knowledge of God?

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1 (ESV)

The is how the Bible defines faith. But faith needs to be rooted in a subject or object. Some people place their faith in money or their occupation or education. Some place their faith in themselves. Still others place it in a God they deem unknowable. But God has revealed Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ!

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Hebrews 11:6 (ESV)

If you believe in God, wouldn’t you like to know as much as you can about Him? Wouldn’t you desire to know why He created you instead of conjuring your own ideas of who God is and why He placed you on this earth? Why do you ignore the real questions about life when all the answers have been written down for centuries in the Bible?

Faith is important but it is the object of faith that solely matters-Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

How Will God Bless? (1 Chronicles 21:1)

My company is experiencing a decrease in the volume of work in the month. While this may be a seasonal variation, the decrease is far greater than in previous years. After reviewing each client, it appears that the slowdown is affecting many physician offices. Short term, it means the office has time to catch up with paperwork and servicing existing accounts. Long term, it may mean downsizing.

As I prayed over this issue, I asked God to bless my company and continue to allow my company to grow. But after a few days of praying this request, God’s Holy Spirit reminded me of His important truth. How will God bless?

Sometimes I think the only way God will bless my life or my company is by allowing my company or life to prosper and grow. God certainly does bless and has blessed me by these means. But God could also bless by taking away work and slowing the growth. This blessing may give our company rest. It may allow me to refocus upon existing clients. Or it may be to remind me that my heart, like King David’s, is sinful and preoccupied with growth and numbers for my company, rather than working to establish the Kingdom of God through my company and occupation.

Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel.
1 Chronicles 21:1 (ESV)

In the latter part of his life, King David ordered a census of Israel. In that time in Israel, a census was only allowed to take inventory of one’s possessions. Only God could order a census of the nation Israel. When David ordered the census, God had not ordained it. Even David’s general, Joab, a man who would have every reason to be proud of the number of able-bodied men who could serve in his army, advised against it. But God was allowing Satan to tempt David, appealing to his pride, and David succumbed to his own sins. God later punished David for his actions.

My company is not mine. My life is not mine. All belongs to God. And God expects me to be a good steward of what He has given me, not to further my reputation, but to honor and glorify God.

I am still learning and by God’s grace and mercy, He is transforming into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

A Surefire Investment (Deuteronomy 7:9)

The US stock market has been on a dizzying course during the first months of 2016. In fact, the first 10 ten days of trading are the worst start in any year in the history of the stock market. Financial pundits abound making suggestions about which direction the market will head and what will be a surefire investment. This is all sounds comforting but the truth is no one really knows. These predictions are based upon past market behavior or complex algorithms that examine both micro and macroeconomic conditions. And no matter the confidence or track record of the pundit, no one is accurate 100% of the time.

As I perused these articles, I wondered if there is anything that could be labeled as a surefire investment? Don’t limit the choices to stocks and mutual funds. Even people with good intentions, who invest their time in young and bright teens and adults may have their efforts thwarted by a complacent or even rebellious recipient. But there is one surefire investment.

Invest in prayer.

What? What kind of investment is that? But stop and think about it. When we invest in God’s promises, there is a 100% guarantee that your investment will reap benefits, because our time frame is not a few years, seeking a return on our investment, it is eternity.

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations...
Deuteronomy 7:9 (ESV)

A thousand generations! No prayer is ever wasted. God guarantees it! I don’t need any further reassurance!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life. 

Where is Your Faith? (Luke 8:25)

I recently sang at a memorial service. In the days leading up to the service, my throat was scratchy. At first I thought I had strained my vocal cords through practice, but it became increasingly clear that I had caught a cold. On the day of the performance, my throat was burning. Several people were already praying for me. And yet, I began to doubt whether God would help me. I sought out several other brothers and sisters in Christ, before the service, and asked them to pray for my healing.

The service commenced and the time for my performance quickly approached. My throat was still burning as I sipped on water to diminish the pain. “Lord, I guess you won’t heal me,” I lamented in my mind. And then, one minute before my performance, the pain disappeared, my throat cleared, and my anxiety was gone. God healed me!

He said to them, “ Where is your faith?”
Luke 8:25 (ESV)

Where is my faith? Is it buried beneath layers of self-reliance, pride, and arrogance? Is it so small that I am unable or unwilling to ask God for His help? Is it choked off by the worries of this world? Sadly, the answer is yes to all, more often than I would like to admit.

In God’s perfect timing, He healed me. And in the most beautiful irony of this day, the song I sang was “Blessings”, by Laura Story. The words are so fitting, reminding me of the many ways God can bless me, especially through trials and hardships.

I am continually humbled by God’s mercy and grace in my life. He helps me even when I doubt His love and the faithful prayers of His Church.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Blessings by Laura Story

We pray for blessings, we pray for peace

Comfort for family, protection while we sleep

We pray for healing, for prosperity

We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering

And all the while, You hear each spoken need

Yet love is way too much to give us lesser things

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near

What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom, Your voice to hear

We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near

We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love

As if every promise from Your word is not enough

And all the while, You hear each desperate plea

And long that we'd have faith to believe

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near

What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us

When darkness seems to win

We know that pain reminds this heart

That this is not, This is not our home

It's not our home

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near

What if my greatest disappointments or the aching of this life

Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy

What if trials of this life

The rain, the storms, the hardest nights

Are your mercies in disguise

Blessed with a Flat (Ephesians 5:15-16)

It was 5 AM and I was rushing to get to work. It was a long day ahead and I had many duties to which I had to attend. This morning was more hectic than others. In the afternoon, I was performing at a memorial service. Thus, in addition to my usual briefcase, I loaded the car with my guitar, gig bag, and a change of clothing. As I started the engine, the tell-tale dashboard blinking and chime started. I had a flat!

My first thoughts were, “Oh Father God, why now?” But as I got out of the car and began transferring everything to the van, the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart. 

“Why now? I am making sure you do get to work on time. I am making sure you do keep your teaching session with the dermatology residents. I am making sure you do not get into an accident and lose control of your car. I am making sure that you will be at the memorial service and bless the family of your brother in Christ.”

I stopped and smiled. I was blessed with a flat!

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 5:15-16 (ESV)

How many other times in my life have I complained about seemingly lost opportunities? The missed parking space, the long line at the grocery store, the crashed computer...the list is endless. My faith is so weak. I focus on the problem at hand and how to resolve it with my own efforts rather than focusing on God who holds me in His hands, ensuring all things work together for His good.

God blesses exceeding abundantly, more than we ask or think. And He does this to reveal His Glory through His Church and by believing in faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.

Blessed with a flat! Only God knows the best way to bless me and thanks be to Him that He does!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

An Open Book Exam (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

During high school and college, I enjoyed taking an open book exam. Basically, the main textbook and one’s notes were available to be reviewed as one took the exam. The caveat was the test question was usually very difficult because the objective was not to test rote memorization but to test the application of the facts. Nonetheless, I always preferred these types of tests and felt confident because I knew that all the answers were in front of me, I just had to take the time and effort to retrieve them.

When I read the Bible, I feel a similar confidence and peace. All of the answers to life’s questions are within its pages, but I need to make the effort to read the Bible and study its passages. But unlike my open book exam, I have the perfect helper, the Holy Spirit.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete,equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)

God’s Word comes alive and is relevant to my life when I ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate my reading. It is an open book exam with the perfect teacher at my side.

I have never felt more confident!

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

We Called It Flat Island! (Acts 4:11-12)

One of the amusing running jokes my family enjoyed during our recent visit to Australia was made at the expense of one of our tour guides. On a lively walking tour of Sydney, this affable young man entertained us with his dry and quirky sense of humor. As he pointed out various geographic and man-made landmarks, he wryly noted, “Now we Australians are not the most creative of people, so we do not come up with the most imaginative of names. This area to the right was built on a pile of rocks so we call it, ‘The Rocks’. When the Sydney Harbor bridge was completed, the locals thought it looked like a coat hanger so they dubbed it, ‘The Coat Hanger’. And those buildings over there, when it was built, it reminded people of a toaster so they called it, you guessed it, ‘The Toaster’.”

We all politely chuckled with the tour guide and his apparent self-deprecating humor. But when we flew to our next destination in Australia, the tour guide's words were prescient! As we toured the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests, off of Port Douglas, our tour guide pointed out several geographic landmarks. “Do you see that island out there, it’s a bit flat on the horizon.” We all nodded when we saw it. “The Australians named it ‘Flat Island’” My daughter and I looked at each other and began to laugh! For the rest of the trip, the concrete metaphors and descriptions that the Australians gave to various landmarks never failed to elicit a laugh from our family!

Sometimes we can give very elaborate names and metaphors to places or persons of interest. The old Yankee baseball stadium was dubbed, “The House that Ruth Built” after the legendary Babe Ruth. But other times, a very concrete and unimaginative name is given, like the Flat Island and other landmarks in Australia. No worries, as the Aussies are fond of saying, it is all good!

Jesus referred to Himself with many names and metaphors. He is the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, the Alpha and Omega, All of these are correct and point to His Divine Attributes. But as magnificent and awe-inspiring are these names, only His name truly matters.

This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:11-12 (ESV)

We can describe Jesus by many titles and names, but for salvation and your eternal destiny, only one name matters. You must call upon the name of Jesus Christ and Him alone, confess and repent of your sins, and accept Him as your Lord and Savior.

We call Him Savior! We call Him God! We call Him Jesus.

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

No Worries! (Matthew 6:34)

During my recent vacation in Australia, I was impressed by the affable and approachable nature of the people. And wherever I went and whomever I met, there was a familiar phrase whenever a problem arose, “No worries!” At first, I thought it was trite and spoken as an afterthought. But I observed its use in every social setting: from children to grandparents, from casual encounters to married couples, at work or play-this ubiquitous phrase abounded. I began to enjoy hearing it, so much so, that I began using it. Somehow, it seemed more appropriate, friendly, almost inviting whenever a problem arose.

But we were on vacation, at rest, admittedly low-stress! Within a few days we returned home and although I tried to keep this same mind-set, I knew I was reverting to my usual anxious ways. One evening, when things were not going as smoothly as I hoped, I verbally expressed my frustration to my wife. With a smile, she turned to me and said, “No worries!” My anxiety disappeared and frustrations melted as my mind recalled the positive attitude of the Australians.

Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:34 (ESV)

God reminds us of the futility of anxiety and worry. He reminds us that we could drown ourselves in the worries of every minute detail of life. He knows what we are like! He created us! And because of this He also has given us the solution! Place your trust in God! Seek first His kingdom and all of your needs will be taken care.

This does not mean that your troubles and conflicts will disappear nor does it mean that life will not be painful. It means that worries are not your concern. Your focus should be the Sovereign and Supreme God who is in control even when circumstances and your life seem random and chaotic.

There are few lives as chaotic and harassed as was the life of our Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, He remained steadfast in His mission to serve God, the Father. And because He was faithful and accomplished His mission, if we confess our sins, repent and place our trust in Him, we can truly proclaim, “No worries!!”

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"Stand Over There!" (Ephesians 6:4)

My daughter was recently suffering from a bad cold. As she sniffled and coughed, she entered my home office. As she stood next to me, I grew increasingly uncomfortable. I am extremely paranoid about getting sick and although she and I were engaged in a favorite activity, listening to contemporary singers on the internet, I couldn’t enjoy the father-daughter bonding moment.

“Sweetheart, please stand over there! You’re sick and I don’t want to catch your cold.”

My daughter took a step back but it wasn’t far enough for me. “Stand over there!” I motioned to an area even further away, assuring myself that I was creating a safe and healthy buffer zone. What is more important than my staying healthy? Right?

Sure.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4 (ESV)

There were far better and less hurtful ways I could have handled the situation but my selfish and insensitive spirit took over. My daughter turned and left. Later, I tried to joke with her but I had clearly hurt her feelings. Surely, she should have understood. What is more important than staying healthy? Right. The next day I apologized to my daughter, telling her how wrong I was. I prayed for her quick recovery. But the sting of that encounter still was painful for both of us.

I wish I could take back all of the hurtful and selfish things I have done as a parent. I still have much to learn about being a parent. But I have even more to learn to be more like my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I pray that He will continue to transform me to be more like Him.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"Do or do not! There is no try!" (Zechariah 4:6)

“Do or do not! There is no try!”
Master Yoda-Star Wars

Most of us recognize this quote from Master Yoda, the wise Jedi master who trained centuries of Jedi knights in the Star Wars movies. This quote came to my mind the other day as I struggled with a spiritual battle. It was a temptation to carnal thoughts. My first inclination was to read the Bible. A good start, for sure! I reviewed the Bible verses from my daily devotional of Psalms and Proverbs which I read every morning. But as I read, hoping that the pure milk of God’s Word would cleanse my thoughts, the Holy Spirit prodded me. I was trying to do this with my flesh. Even though what I was doing was good, I needed to get down on my hands and knees in prayer and seek the power of the Holy Spirit to intervene and strengthen me. I reread the Bible verses, but this time, praying to God to give me peace and wisdom to deal with the temptation. And the same verses I had read just a few seconds earlier burned with new meaning and vigor.

God answered my prayers quickly and decisively.

...Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.
Zechariah 4:6 (ESV)

Spiritual warfare has so many different faces. Sometimes it is a blatant confrontation with evil-a robbery, a murder, a slanderous comment. But so often, it comes under the guise of a seemingly godly activity. It was not wrong to read the Bible when I was being tempted. But I had the wrong attitude. I was using the action of Bible reading as a cure, simply assuming that reading it would dispel the temptation. I needed to humble myself before God and ask Him for strength, to understand the Words I was speaking.  I needed Him to empower me to receive His Word. I was, once again, trying to do things by my own strength and power.

There is no try. Just humble yourself before God and ask Him for His help. Just do!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

See and Believe (John 20:6-8)

On my recent plane trip to Australia, I had an opportunity to view about 15 movies. As I viewed the movies, I began to ponder some of the stories that were presented. I marveled at how many of these movies were based upon deep religious themes, many of them Christian. And then, the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart. Why not organize a movie ministry fellowship in our church? It could focus upon movies, both secular and Christian. After viewing the movie, we could embark upon a short study that would examine the Biblical basis for the plots. A few meetings and emails after I returned led to PVBC starting a new fellowship group. It is a Christian movie ministry dubbed “See and Believe.”

Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus ' head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed.
John 20:6-8 (ESV)

The Greek word for the first "saw" is theorao which means to be a spectator, from which our word theater is derived. The second "saw" in verse 8 is the Greek word horao, which means to discern clearly or to perceive. Thus, when both Peter and John saw the empty tomb, they saw and believed!

I pray that God will bless this ministry and use it to encourage both believer and seeker alike. I pray that as we view these movies, the Holy Spirit would quicken minds and hearts to dig deeper into the Bible to understand the eternal truths of life.

See and believe!

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"He's Gone" (Ephesians 5:15-17)

A few weeks ago, I had dinner with a relative and after dinner, we returned to her home. As we reminisced about the family, she brought out a photo from nearly 30 years ago. She kept it because it was the only photo that captured most of her mother’s side of the family. As she named each person in the photo, she would pause and then say, “He’s gone.” or “She’s gone.” It was a sobering reminder of how time robs of us of our loved ones.

As I sojourn through my middle age, I am increasingly aware of the ephemeral nature of our lives. In the past 5 years, my brother-in-law, my mother, my father, and two uncles have passed away. Numerous family members of friends have also passed away. And of my older friends and relatives who remain, many are not in good health or are entering senility.

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
Ephesians 5:15-17 (ESV)

While it saddens me, this passage of time encourages me to make wise use my of remaining years. I pray for opportunities to witness to friends and family. I pray that God would change their hearts and allow them to see the infinite blessings of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Redeem your time on earth wisely. Someday, others will be saying about me, “He’s gone.” The only memory I am concerned about leaving is whether my life was a reflection of Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Like Father, Like Son? (1 Corinthians 19:22)

In my contact list for my clients, there is a notes section where I continually update relevant personal information. Our office occasionally sends gifts of food to the physicians and office staff, so we are keenly aware of any dietary preferences or restrictions. At times, we have gone to great lengths to obtain a favorite restaurant dish or pastry to surprise our clients. The usual response is glee and thankfulness.

However, occasionally, these preparations have backfired. One particular office had several physicians and the medical practice was owned by a father and son. Both were Jewish and I had dined with the son on several occasions and knew that he was strictly kosher. Several years after I met the son, I had an opportunity to dine with the father. I assumed that he was kosher and because I knew he was fond of wine, took painstaking steps to find a high quality kosher wine. When I presented it to him, I was expecting he would be pleased by my efforts. Instead, he looked at the bottle label and sniffed, “Thanks, but I can’t stand kosher wine. My son drinks this stuff. But I don’t follow strict kosher food laws.”

Oops! This was the opposite of “like father, like son.” No worries, we enjoyed our dinner together and have since laughed about the incident. But it was a lesson I never forgot. I should not have naively assumed that one approach would fit all, even with very close family members.

...I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.
1 Corinthians 19:22 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul never assumed he could preach the same way to the many people he met. The Bible records several sermons he gave to many different groups-gentiles, Jews, politicians. It was never presented in the same manner but the core message was the same. Repent of your sins and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

I pray that I will continue to be open and sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in my life, that He will be my voice and wisdom when sharing the Gospel to all whom I meet.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"Pay Me Now!" (Ephesians 2:8-9)

“Pay me now!”

The snow blanketed the entire parking lot as the temperature dipped to 22F. My wife and I stood there, shivering, as the man held out his hand, awaiting payment.

“Pay me now!” He insisted.

Our recent ski trip to Mammoth was a weekend filled with almost blizzard-like conditions. Attempting to return home on a Sunday morning, we intended to remove our chains for the return drive to Los Angeles. However, the service station that had originally installed the chains emphatically stated that we needed keep the chains on the tires if we wanted to leave Mammoth. Unfortunately, it meant that we had to find a person or service shop, outside of Mammoth, that could remove the chains. The service station thought we might be able to find someone in the next town of Bishop, 42 miles away. Thus we set off and drove the 42 highway miles at 30 mph, our pace limited by our chains and the near white-out conditions.

When we arrived in Bishop, nearly 2 hours later, we quickly found the nearest service station. The service bay was closed so I attempted to ask various store clerks and customers in the shop for help in removing the chains.  Their unanimous response was a snicker and sneer, “Remove the chains? Uhhh, can’t you just do it yourself?”

“I don’t know,” I sheepishly smiled. “It seems easy but we have never done this. Have you?”

As if each person were reading from the same script, the answer was, “No, but it seems easy.”

Yes, it seems easy, especially if one has never done it. By the time I walked back to the car, my wife had completed watching an online video on her smartphone, “explaining” how to remove the chains. We proceeded to remove the chains and were encouraged when we were able to remove half of the chains from both front tires. But when we moved the car to allow the complete release of the chains, we discovered the chains were still stuck to the inside part of the wheel. As desperate seconds turned into minutes, we could not figure out how to do it.

Fortunately a man who worked for a roadside assistance company, one which we had a contract, had just arrived in the parking lot. My wife flagged him down and asked for his help.

“Take off your chains? Our company doesn’t put on or take off the chains. You’re on your own, either that or you pay my private company to do it. But you pay me now!”

We, of course, gladly agreed. After an agonizing 10 minutes, lying down in below freezing water and slush, maneuvering himself behind both wheels, he was able to remove both chains. Muttering under his breath about working on his day off, he stuck out his hand.

“Pay me now!”

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV)

Thanks be to God that He does not demand immediate payment when I sin and make a mistake. God is Holy and there is no reason why a Holy God must accept my sinful rebellion against Him. But because of His grace, we are saved through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. If you have confessed and repented of your sins and placed your faith in Jesus Christ, He is worthy and just to forgive us.

Pay me now? God has paid our debt to Him through Jesus Christ!

Thank you Jesus, for all You have done for me, even though I never deserved it.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"Winning Covers Up a Lot of Mistakes." (Joshua 7:11-12)

It had to happen!

The NBA Golden State Warriors, finally lost their first game of the 2015-2016 basketball season. It was an NBA record 24 games in a row. Luke Walton, acting head coach for the Warriors, was introspective. “Winning covers up a lot of mistakes. Our guys, they know how to win. But by doing that, you don’t get that same focus and growth on the little things.”

Everyone loves a winner! A well known television television series, ABC’s Wide World of Sports, began every program with the now-familiar, “The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat!”

The Bible has many examples of winners, heroes overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. There is young David, a shepherd boy, who, with a sling and small stones, slays Goliath, the champion of the Philistines. There is Gideon who led the armies of Israel against the Midianites and defeated them with an army of 300, that God had whittled down from 30,000.

But the Bible is not silent about mistakes and losses. There is the despair of the prophet Elijah, fresh from God’s victory over the prophets of Baal, but forlorn and depressed as Queen Jezebel seeks to kill him for his actions.

And there is Joshua, the successor of Moses, who led the Israelites into the promised land of Canaan. But it was not always the thrill of victory for Joshua. After the amazing initial victory at Jericho, they suffered a humiliating defeat in Ai. But why? The Israelites were larger in number and stronger than the army of Ai. They had a great leader in Joshua. God gave the reason. One man, Achan, sinned and the rest of the Israelites did not hold him accountable.

Israel has sinned; they have transgressed my covenant that I commanded them; they have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen and lied and put them among their own belongings. Therefore the people of Israel cannot stand before their enemies. They turn their backs before their enemies, because they have become devoted for destruction. I will be with you no more, unless you destroy the devoted things from among you.
Joshua 7:11-12 (ESV)

The defeat caused Israel to critically examine their spiritual lives and actions. Their earlier victory led to overconfidence and they did not focus on the seemingly “little things”, sins that could destroy their lives. No matter how little we may consider it, sin may grow into a hideous, out of control monster.

Winning is a wonderful feeling but it may cover up mistakes and sins. Always look within yourself and ask God to reveal any hidden sins you may have.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"The Bible is Obnoxious! (Matthew 16:24-26)

An atheist group is committed to remove Bibles from all hotel rooms in the United States. Calling the Bible “obnoxious”, the group claims that the mere presence of the Bible in any hotel is “inappropriate and unconstitutional.” The organization is now distributing labels and attempting to place them on the cover of Bibles found in hotel rooms.

“Warning: Literal Belief in this Book May Endanger Your Health and Life”

Of all the obnoxious statements this organization has made, I would aver this last statement is closer to the truth than they realize.

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?”
Matthew 16:24-26 (ESV)

If our life is grounded in this world and existence, then we are in danger...of losing our very soul. God has given us His Bible to instruct us in how to live our lives. Our existence is much more than this life. We are eternal souls, created with an innate longing to be in fellowship with God, our Creator. But our sins have separated us from God. What is the solution? We need to confess our sins, repent and turn toward Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Why should we trust Jesus? Because God has revealed His complete truth and plan for our salvation within the Bible. If you read it, God, may indeed, draw you closer to Him and bring you back into the fellowship He created you to experience.

Would you endanger your life by reading the Bible? If you do, you just may lose it to save it.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life

My Spiritual Heirloom (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

With my father’s recent passing, my sister and I had the somber task of going through his personal effects. One item was a watch which he had previously told me that he would give to me upon his passing. My father treasured that watch and he wanted to know that I would always remember him when I wore it. As I placed it on my wrist, I was overcome with emotion as memories of my father flooded my thoughts.

Someday, I hope to leave some heirlooms to my children. It may consist of my guitars, my Bibles, and perhaps some articles of clothing and jewelry. But the most important heirloom will be spiritual. What spiritual legacy will I leave to my children?

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7-8 (ESV)

The crown of righteousness is given to all believers who are faithful to Jesus Christ. It is a reward and prize that all believers should seek. But unlike a watch or material heirloom, it cannot be handed down to my heirs. Only God can grant it to them if they have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Therefore, the greatest spiritual heirloom I can leave to them is to provide a godly environment where God may work in their lives to draw them closer to Him. I need to continually place my children in the pathway of God’s grace.

Before I die, nothing would give me greater joy than to know my children are walking closely with God. Any heirloom I leave them would be meaningless unless it is a godly spiritual heirloom.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"Many People Would Not Be Alive Today.." (2 Timothy 1:5)

Several years ago, I bid farewell to a former associate who was leaving and returning to Japan. He worked closely with several of us and we greatly respected and valued his contributions. On the eve of his departure, our group had a dinner to wish him well. One of my partners delivered a tribute to him, “I am very thankful for Dr. Smith’s service to our group and the community. I know that many people would not be alive today had it not been for Dr. Smith. We all owe him a great debt of gratitude!”

It was true. Many people owed their lives to Dr. Smith and his compassion and expertise. It was a touching and endearing tribute to this man. As I reflected upon this speech, I recalled people to whom I owe my spiritual life. What is my spiritual heritage? I remember the man whom God used to lead me to Him in college. I remember the great missionary orthopedic surgeon, Dr. John Dreisbach, who influenced me when I was a medical student. I remember my Christian brother who supported and loved me when all others turned their back on me. If it had not been for these men that God used in my life, I would be spiritually dead.

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.
2 Timothy 1:5 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul reminds of the spiritual heritage that raised his protege in the Lord, Timothy. Both his mother and grandmother were godly influences and surrounded the young man with a great spiritual legacy. Timothy was the pastor of the church at Ephesus. For the believers who benefitted from his preaching and fellowship, these same people owed a spiritual debt to Timothy’s mother and grandmother.

Many people would not be alive today had it not been for the godly men and women that God uses to bring all of us into a closer relationship with Him. Thank God for His grace and mercy for allowing you to meet these fellow saints of God.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

​​"Can I Read the Bible?" (Hebrews 4:12)

In my first year in college, I was involved in a cult. It was led by a woman who claimed to be a reincarnation of a man who died in India in the late 19th century. She taught that all religions were paths to the same god.  As I was indoctrinated into her teachings, I would spend my time meditating alone and in the presence of this woman. As revealing and interesting as this was, I wanted more. It is my nature to read and I searched for any material that would help me in my new spiritual journey. It occurred to me that if all religions were paths to the same god, then Christianity must also be part of that truth. Therefore, reading the Bible could be a resource I was seeking. In spite of the logic of my approach, I felt compelled to seek the approval of this woman. During a meditation session with her, I broached the subject.

“If all religions are paths to God, then Christianity is also truth, right?”

The woman sat back in her chair, closed her eyes, and smiled. “Yes,” she began. “But it is not the complete truth. I teach the number nine path. It is the most direct path to god.”

I nodded and persisted. “But if Christianity is on a pathway to truth, can I read the Bible?”

She smiled and flashed a knowing glance. “Yes you may. But it is not the complete truth. Only I teach the complete truth.”

I acknowledged her answer and proceeded to read the Bible, something I had not done since religion classes in high school. As I read, it was if I was seeing the words in a new light. At first, I was pleased to see a similarity with the Bible and the message that this woman was teaching. But with time, I began to note significant contradictions. In the Gospel of John, Jesus stated that, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

How can this be? I was indoctrinated with the belief that all religions were paths to the same god but Jesus declared that He is the only Way. One of the statements had to be wrong. But which one? Over the next few months, I read more of the Bible. My journey to Christianity had begun. God led me to another Christian brother who helped me with many of my questions. In less than a year, I went from an atheist to a pantheist. Now I was confronted with the One True God, and, in His mercy, drew me to Himself. He changed my heart to know Him. And He did it by bringing me to His Holy Word. During the week before Easter 1982, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two- edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 (ESV)

I know the Bible is living and active because it convicted me of the truth. No other written word has the power to change our hearts. Satan deceives us by twisting and distorting portions of Scripture. Cults love to quote portions of the Bible, cherry picking verses to support their blasphemous views. But when one takes the time to read the Bible, there is only one inescapable conclusion. It contains the entire Truth that will lead you to Jesus Christ and eternal life. It is the Truth and it will set you free. No one comes to the Father except through Jesus.

Yes, everyone can and should read the Bible!

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.