Wednesday was his day to visit the store and the day we closed at 2:30 p. m.
The little country store was the only one in town. I worked there as a day manager. Mack* was an insurance agent with flexible hours. For unknown reasons, he enjoyed visiting our store at 2 p. m. on Wednesdays wanting chicken after the kitchen was closed.
One Wednesday a waitress made the mistake of telling him we were closing soon and had no more chicken. Mack-accustomed to getting his way, didn’t like her remarks and informed the owner about the rejection. From then on, Mack got chicken regardless of what time he came.
“The customer is always right.” That’s what I’ve been told. They really aren’t, but if an owner wants to stay in business he must treat them as if they are. Paul had a similar philosophy. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves (Philippians 2:3). Not an easy assignment but essential nevertheless.
Selfishness can ruin businesses, churches, organizations and lives. It is much easier to “look out for number one,” but doing so can leave me lonely and perhaps hated. Even selfish people don’t like the trait in others. Mack was selfish but didn’t like it when the waitress was.
Humility lends a true perspective of ourselves and others. Demeaning ourselves is unnecessary, but a “less self” attitude reminds us we’re all sinners undeserving of God’s grace yet needing it and only rescued by it. Pedestals are for elevating others, not ourselves. Who are the Macks in your life that need valuing more highly?
Prayer: Father, when we’re tempted to put “me” on the pedestal, remind us how You put us first when we didn’t deserve it.
*Name changed to protect privacy.
I wasn’t a fan of the show or comic strip, but one character mesmerized me.
Linus van Pelt was created by Charles Schulz for his comic strip Peanuts. He was Charlie Brown’s best friend and Lucy’s younger brother. He initially appeared in 1952 but didn’t speak until 1954, the same year he was shown with his “security blanket”-a term he coined.
Linus’ emotional attachment to the blanket manifested itself in physical symptoms when he was separated from it. When Lucy had it laundered, he became weak and dizzy. When she buried it-attempting to break him of his habit, he dug up the neighborhood.
While wrangling with the religious leaders over his identity, Jesus informed them that those in a relationship with him were safe. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand (John 10:28).
Humans crave security. Storms aren’t as frightening when in my house. I don’t worry as much about thieves when my home and car doors are locked. Smoke alarms soothe my fear of burning up if the house catches fire. Paying into the Social Security system alleviates the fear of depending solely on savings or retirement.
But my ultimate “security blanket” is belief in what Jesus said. When connected to him by faith, my present and eternal lives are secure. No one can snatch me from him, nor will he discard me as children often do their security blankets when they get older. I may plan and prepare for my earthly future, but ultimately God controls it and will care for my needs. Christ is the only “security blanket” we need. Have you connected by faith?
Prayer: Merciful Father, motivate us to find our ultimate security in You rather than things and other people.
Situated in Red Square in the center of Moscow since shortly after his death in 1924, Vladimir Lenin’s corpse requires daily moisturizing and injection of preservatives under his clothes to safeguard its appearance. His sarcophagus is kept at 61 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity between 80 and 90 percent. The corpse is removed every eighteen months for a chemical bath.
Honoring those who serve faithfully is admirable, but viewing a lifeless body only reminds us a person is just that-lifeless. Had someone produced and preserved Jesus’ body, Christianity would have no message and doubtlessly not survived.
Many balk at the notion of Jesus returning to life, but while Jesus’ earthly ministry changed countless lives and his death portrayed unconditional love, only the resurrection validates his death’s purpose and provides Christianity’s central message.
But are there proofs of Jesus’ resurrection? A carefully guarded tomb is one. Jewish authorities didn’t question Jesus’ death but took precautions to keep his followers from stealing the body and concocting a story about his rumored return to life.
Then there’s the empty tomb. Some propose Jesus only swooned on the cross and was revived by the cool tomb, but even the soldiers sent to hasten his death by breaking his legs didn’t because he was already dead.
The women coming to the tomb early Sunday morning to anoint Jesus’ body were greeted by an angel who confirmed Jesus’ resurrection: Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said (Matthew 28:5-6). Though afraid, they left with immense joy to share the news with others.
Eyewitness accounts also prove the resurrection. Two believers on their way to Emmaus encounter the resurrected Jesus. After realizing who he is, they too pass along news of their encounter to others. A carefully guarded tomb could not hold a resurrected Lord. As early believers spread the wonderful news to others we should too. There is no body.
Prayer: Lord, may the joy of Your resurrection give us reason to share the good news.
Death isn't a subject I enjoy thinking or talking about.
I’m obviously not alone. Witness the many terms we’ve invented to lessen the impact of what happens when the heart stops beating and the lungs cease functioning. Deceased, passed, gone, departed, lost, released, asleep. Everything but dead. No one enjoys losing family members or friends, but it happens and we’re powerless to stop it.
Perhaps death is easier to accept when a person’s life had purpose and made an impact. Great inventors whose concoctions benefit humanity for thousands of years or noted evangelists whose spiritual contributions outlast them by millenniums.
The Cross-and Jesus’ death on it, is the centerpiece of history. It's what Old Testament believers looked forward to and what New Testament Christians reflect on. Jesus’ death on this cruel instrument had purpose.
Jesus’ death results in forgiveness of sins for all who accept his payment. As Jesus shared the last supper with his disciples, he explained his blood’s purpose: This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. (Matthew 26:28).Jesus’ death was intentional and necessary. The Father sent him with purpose, and he consented to the mission knowing it would consummate at the cross. It was necessary for humanity’s reconciliation since our sin created a disconnect between us and holy God.
Jesus’ death also revealed he was God’s Son. As the centurion and those with him observed how Jesus died, they were convinced he wasn’t just an ordinary man. He was God’s Son.
But individual acknowledgement of and consent to Jesus’ death on the cross are insufficient by themselves. They must be coupled with repentance of sin and belief in Jesus’ ability to forgive our sins and make us new creations.
Obeying God’s plan isn’t always easy, but he supplies the strength to accomplish what he asks of us. Faithfulness results in spiritual blessings now and rewards in eternity.
Prayer: Lord God, we acknowledge Your Son’s payment for our sins and live in the wonderful freedom of forgiveness.
My garden is plowed but nothing grows. And with good reason. Nothing is planted.
I grew up around gardens and have always intermittently gardened myself. My grandparents had them, and most parishioners in my father’s churches did as well.
I’m most familiar with my paternal grandfather’s. He spent a great deal of time cultivating his garden. Preparation for planting involved tilling, spreading fertilizer and purchasing seeds and plants. Maintenance required hoeing, pulling weeds and spraying for insects. When the fruit was ready, the real work began: picking, digging, snapping, peeling, canning and blanching. Once after watching me sweat in the garden, my father-who wasn’t a gardener, said: “I could go to the market and buy it cheaper.” He was right but that avoided cultivation.
Paul reminds us spiritual lives must be cultivated like gardens: Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed…continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12)
Improper cultivation in gardens produces weeds, bugs, worms, and involves using chemicals that result in unnatural ripening. Failing to cultivate my spiritual life also brings unwanted results. Working out our salvation is not working for it. Salvation is God’s free gift. But once we have it, we must work it out. Gardens produce when worked, muscles form when used and spiritual growth occurs when spiritual muscles are exercised.
Spiritual cultivation involves Biblical meditation, intercessory prayer, building relationships with believers and unbelievers, sharing God’s love in word and action and continually depending on God’s indwelling Spirit. God gifts his children, but having gifts doesn’t mean they are serving his purpose. We must cultivate gifts by developing and using them. How is your garden growing?
Prayer: Merciful Lord, enable us to grow gardens with spiritual fruit that enlarges Your Kingdom.
I wasn’t excited about going, but I had no choice.
Hiding the fact you can’t see isn’t easy for a young boy. Contacts and laser surgery weren’t an option for me in the 1960’s. Glasses were. Having friends who had glasses, I knew what was in store-being called “four eyes.” Wearing glasses just wasn’t masculine.
I suppose coming to within six feet of the chalkboard so I could see what the teacher was writing gave my blindness away. She called my parents, and I was given a Mom version sight test and then ushered to the optometrist. I had to admit blindness before receiving help.
Jesus encountered equally stubborn religious leaders and said; If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains (John 9:41).
Jesus healed a man born blind-an unheard of feat. Since the religious leaders doubted Jesus’ Messiahship, it was important to discredit the miracle. They repeatedly questioned the man about the healing and even examined his parents. Jesus irritated them further by claiming the reason they couldn’t see him clearly was because they refused to admit their blindness.
Jesus’ words seem confusing: I must be blind in order to see. Admitting blindness is simply confessing my inability to handle life on my own. I don’t understand all events, nor can I. I’m often stubborn, thinking assistance from others-and most importantly God, is unnecessary. But admitting blindness-our inability, clears the way for God to open our eyes so we can see. No more glasses, contacts or laser surgery. Just pure undiluted vision of who Jesus is and where he’s taking you. Admit your blindness so God can open your eyes.
Prayer: Father, may we see clearly Your love, power and direction in our life.
Lightning peeled and thunder rolled. All protecting us was a tent.
My brother and I were camping in the Smokies. The day was beautiful, but darkness brought dramatic changes. Storms rolled in bringing deafening thunder, keen lightning and torrential rain. Our tents provided little security, and we lay awake listening, fearing, praying and contemplating our powerlessness over the storm. Eventually we drifted off to sleep and the storms subsided.
Storms can be terrifying and deadly. Leaving the crowds, Jesus and his disciples head for the other side of the lake but encounter a storm that threatens to destroy their ship and lives. Jesus seems indifferent. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” (Mark 4:38) Frantic with fear, the disciples wake Jesus. He calms the storm but rebukes them for their weak faith.
Storms have a way of testing and transforming faith. Regardless of whether they are sent or allowed by God, storms of conflict, doubt, depression, financial struggles or family breakup can mold or melt our faith. And we choose the outcome by our response. God’s intent is always to mold our faith, growing us into Christlike thoughts, attitudes and actions. His ability to limit the intensity and length of the storm encourages us take one more step.
Storms normally come unexpectedly, so preparation is vital. People living where tornadoes or hurricanes are common normally have homes with basements or storm shelters. Listening for the Spirit’s guiding voice coupled with regular prayer and Bible reading-as well as trusting in God’s power, enables us to endure storms with confidence instead of doubt and fear.
Prayer: Merciful Savior, thank You for controlling the length and intensity of the storms. Guide us to trust You to bring us safely through.
She was a marvel to observe, and you never knew what she would make next.
My great grandmother was a master crocheter. She would sit for hours with needle and thread, seemingly content to labor tirelessly on her projects. But nothing began until the yarn was rolled into a ball. This is where I came in. I held the mass of string firmly while she pulled and rolled. This prohibited tangles while crocheting. Then she carefully placed the rolled yarn in a cloth bag so it wouldn’t escape when she stitched.
I never saw my great grandmother use a pattern; I suppose they were ingrained in her mind. Her motions seemed repetitive: pull a little slack, make a few stitches and then repeat the process. Thousands of times. What began as a series of loops materialized into afghans, house shoes, sweaters, coasters and other useful items. Some she made in a day; others took months. Unattractive and simple chains became beautiful and complex creations-one stitch at a time.
The psalmist acknowledged the complexity of humans. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet. (Psalm 8:6) Constructed to reflect God’s image and glory and accomplish his purpose, humans were to rule his creation.
You and I are God’s masterpieces, carefully constructed one stitch at a time in our mother’s wombs. From the moment of conception until our last breath, God continues weaving his creations into beautiful garments that will accomplish his purpose. There’s no one like you, nor should you pine to imitate another-only God. What he does-when allowed, will amaze the most despondent esteem starved person. Be patient while God forms you one stitch at a time.
Prayer: God, give us patience while you transform us into Your masterpieces.
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She agreed to follow the Chief Shepherd to the High Places. Instead he led her into the desert. Now she was confused.
Hannah Hurnard was born to a well-to-do English family, but shyness and a speech impediment made life miserable. It wasn’t until she turned nineteen that she finally discovered happiness. Sensing God’s call on her life to mission work, she began traveling with the Friends’ Evangelist Band spreading the gospel in England and Ireland.
In 1955, Hannah began composing the allegory Hinds’ Feet on High Places. Published in 1975, the work describes Much-Afraid’s decision to follow the Chief Shepherd to the High Places. She imagined an easy journey but discovered it required trusting the Chief Shepherd through turmoil, temptation, enemy assault and hot sand. As he reminded her; “All of my servants on the way to the High Places have had to make this detour through the desert.”
The psalmist discovered the same. Out of the depths I cry to you, LORD; Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy. (Psalm 130:1-2)I too have wandered in the desert.
Assuming following Christ makes all problems and difficulties disappear only sets us up for disappointment and bitterness. Jesus dispelled this illusion when he said; In this world you will have trouble. (John 16:33)
The key to victory through desert dwelling is believing what proceeds and follows the middle of the verse: in me you may have peace and But take heart! I have overcome the world. Clinging to God’s truths gives peace in our deserts, and believing he has overcome gives us confidence we will too. Trust God’s heart even when you can’t trace his hand.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we trust You to bring us through life’s trials and usher us victoriously into Your High Place.
“If you don’t like the weather, just hang around a while and it will change,” my friend said. And it did.
Our vacation in Colorado was sprinkled with rollercoaster weather. Mild sunny days materialized into warmer than normal afternoons. Who would have thought we would need sunscreen in March? Two days later, temperatures hovered in the mid 40’s and struggled to reach the mid 30’s the following day as snow fell gently across the open fields and covered the nearby mountains. The day we left temperatures returned to normal.
Friendships can be torn and twisted by gossip, unfaithfulness and neglect but they shouldn’t be. Jonathan clung to his friend even when it involved his father’s misunderstanding. Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD (I Samuel 20:42).
David and Jonathan’s friendship was closer than that between a man and woman. When Jonathan’s father King Saul rebuked him for giving the kingdom to David, Jonathan endured his anger along with possible ridicule from kingdom residents to stand by his friend.
Friendships must sometimes endure periods of separation. David was forced to leave his friend to escape Saul’s murderous intent. My wife and I were separated from our friends when they moved to Colorado. Some say long distance relationships can’t survive; I beg to differ. Email, texting, skyping, cell phones and the internet make instant communication possible. Even when not available, pen, paper and snail mail still function. However bonding happens, it’s just important that it does. Build your friendships with a faithful presence in the good and bad times.
Prayer: Thank You Father for the friends You bring into our lives. May we treat them with respect, faithfulness and love.
Even if it only covered a small portion of my chest, I had to have it.
My maternal grandmother lived in an old farm house void of central air and heat. By the time I arrived in the world, the fireplaces were covered and replaced with gas heaters. No air conditioner appeared until after my grandfather died and then only a small window unit.
Sleeping in the hot humid atmosphere of a South Carolina summer is a challenge in an air conditioned house and particularly one that’s not. Since I can’t sleep without some vestige of cover, it was especially difficult for me to sleep when visiting. Add mosquitoes hovering around my head and singing in my ear and sleep was almost impossible.
My grandmother sprayed the window screens with repellant, turned on a prehistoric oscillating fan, and tucked me in for a restless night. The heat tempted me to throw off all cover, but I maintained a sliver for security.
Peter mentions a different type of cover; although one more essential and comforting. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (I Peter 4:8)
Unlike cover draping only a portion of my body, God’s love demonstrated in Christ’s sacrifice on the cross covers sins completely. All that remains is accepting his love. When I do, complete forgiveness occurs, judgment is averted and eternal life is assured.
God’s security blanket provides warmth presently and eternally, assuring us what he freely gives he won’t remove. Regardless of how often Satan hovers nearby trying to convince us we’re too rotten for God’s forgiveness, his lie is always covered by God’s truth. And spreading God’s cover over others multiplies forgiveness’ impact. Are you covered? If so, cover someone else.
Prayer: Thank you merciful Father that Your love covers a multitude of sins.
Although a few may have considered him “tight,” my word was stingy.
He hired out work on the farm to the cheapest laborers regardless of quality. I know; I performed quite a few jobs for him. A dime for sweeping off the barn roof or pulling weeds from a cotton field. He was a mixture of diligence and laziness, doing most work himself while hiring others to do what he couldn’t do or didn’t want to.
My grandfather’s lifestyle resulted in a tidy sum of money, but it served him no lasting purpose. When he died, he left it-along with his other worldly possessions, behind. He did exactly what Paul warned against.
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment (I Timothy 6:17).
Wealth is normally defined as money and possessions, and there is nothing inherently wrong with either. But Jesus warns of their potential danger by teaching how difficult it is for rich people to enter heaven. (Mark 10:25) God creates things for our enjoyment, and money is necessary for survival. When used properly, both enhance our pilgrimage.
When viewed improperly, arrogance and a sense of false security develop. Hope placed in anything other than the living God will disappoint, and God can take what we don’t use to help others. Ultimately, wealth is not defined by money and possessions but by having friends and family. And most of all through connecting to a God who loves us and will supply all our needs. Who or what are you trusting in?
Prayer: Merciful Lord, remind us our ultimate trust should be in You not things or people.
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With cliffs reaching more than one thousand feet and breathtaking vistas in front and behind, Royal Gorge in Canon City, Colorado, is a tourist’s paradise.
We were on a 24 mile round trip train ride through the middle of the Gorge enjoying the peaceful repose of a ten day vacation. Hundreds of tourists joined us, standing side by side on the open cars with cell phones and cameras ready to snap pictures of each captivating sight as it appeared. But the atmosphere was not always so inviting.
Two railroads once competed for access through Royal Gorge, but it wasn’t wide enough to accommodate two sets of tracks. War broke out between the Denver Rio Grande and Santa Fe railroads along with a two year legal battle. Rifles and pistols soon replaced picks and shovels. Litigation in 1880 finally settled the battle when both parties signed the Treaty of Boston giving Denver Rio Grande access through the Gorge.
Knowing its temptation to divide over tradition and culture, Paul encouraged unity in the early church. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:3)
Differences can divide or complement. Allowing them to divide damages the testimony of God’s church while unity in spite of our differences demonstrates God’s power to use his church to advance a gospel possessing a common denominator. The church is one body, indwelled by one Spirit, worshipping one Lord. God gifts all his children but allows us to use them differently according to our personalities and unique opportunities. Learn to appreciate those who are different from you while looking for common ground in advancing the story of God’s love.
Prayer: God in heaven, enable our commonalities to overcome our differences so Your message of love can be heard by all.
What if I would have done what God told me to when he told me to?
Life may have been different. I would have made healthier choices in high school, chose different friends and made better grades. I would have attended college immediately after high school instead of eight years later. Since I was a preacher’s kid, I could have attended one of our denomination’s colleges free of charge. That would have saved ten years of loan payments.
My “what ifs” could fill a book. Peter had a few himself. But he denied it. “I don’t know or understand what you’re talking about,” he said, and went out into the entryway (Mark 14:68).
Jesus had been betrayed, arrested and was on his way to be tried by the Jewish high court and the Roman ruler. Peter followed at a distance but finally found his way into the courtyard. When questioned about his association with Jesus, he denied it three times. A rooster and Jesus’ glance both reminded him about what might have been.
We normally call “what ifs” regrets, mistakes or bad decisions. Everyone has them. Some we can change. Others we shouldn’t try to-they are destined to remain part of our life history. Had Peter wallowed in regret, he would have returned to his old profession-which he did temporarily, with the attitude of “I failed. I’m destined for a life of misery.”
Instead, Peter let the past be the past. When Jesus issued him a chance for redemption, he took it and became one of the most successful early apostles. Some “what ifs” may define us but they don’t have to imprison us. Let God turn your “what if” into “what next?”
Prayer: Merciful Jesus, enable us to let You be the God of our bright future instead of our dark past.
“Are you going to heaven when you die?” I asked. “I hope so,” she replied. It wasn’t the answer I was looking for but it would have to do.
My grandmother and I were taking an afternoon walk when I asked the question. I’m not sure what prompted me to ask-childhood curiosity I suppose. Or perhaps because she and my grandfather were special and I wanted to make sure my time with them on earth wasn’t it. An eternity of spoiling was more appealing.
Over the years, my grandmother and I discussed numerous religious matters. She taught Sunday School for many years, and since I had been to Bible college she picked me for answers. Thirty years after asking the original question, it was evident she was certain of her eternal home.
God prompted John to write for that very purpose: 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 (I John 5:13).
Many things in life are uncertain: jobs, investments, fuel costs, stock prices, faithful relationships, the birth of healthy children, health insurance. We learn to adapt to uncertainties while ensuring what we can. But forgiveness, salvation and eternal life should be certain.
Being unsure of my relationship with God and wondering whether I’ve committed an unforgivable sin are unsettling states of mind leading to missed opportunities, spiritual stagnation, fear of moving forward, emotional trauma and missing God’s best.
Confession of sin brings a relationship, and God won’t take what he freely gives. If you’re connected through Christ, live with confidence your sins are forgiven, your eternity is certain and your present is as exciting as you let God make it.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, remove the uncertainties that hinder our confident living.
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Every window conjured up nightmares. Every room was a breeding ground for ghouls and goblins. Not your normal description for a church but very accurate for the one I was affiliated with.
It was high school, and I had landed a cleaning job at the church my dad was pastoring. The pay was decent, the location convenient and the hours flexible. All enticing factors for a high school student. But on the weekends, partying came first.
By the time I arrived to clean on Saturday nights I was tired, it was late and I was scared. Churches may bustle with activities on Sunday but at night they are frightening places-especially for a teenager with an active imagination. Sometimes I would take a friend to drive away the woolies. Most of the time, I just endured the chill bumps.
Churches shouldn’t be frightening places-although experiences there should give us chill bumps. Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers (Acts 9:31).
The early church didn’t keep the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection to themselves. They took it worldwide. They weren’t scared of what God would do if they didn’t; they were simply overwhelmed by God’s gift and wanted others to receive it.
Churches are places where relationships are built, spiritual growth takes place and the atmosphere is inviting and challenging. We may confine our churches by denomination, governmental style, culture or race, but God sees people not differences. What can you do to make your church a more inviting place?
Prayer: Merciful Lord, remind us Your church wasn’t birthed to frighten us but for us to enjoy and invite others to join.
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She was condemned by the judges in her town. Death was certain.
Jesus was teaching at the Temple and the normal crowd gathered. He was quickly interrupted by religious leaders dragging a haggard looking woman. Shoving her in front of the crowd, they said, Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of adultery (John 8:4 NLT), then questioned what they should do with her.
The judges didn’t need information. They were authorities on God’s Word. This offense required death by stoning for the man and woman. Of course, they conveniently overlooked the man. Particulars weren’t important. Trapping Jesus was their goal.
Jesus saw through the charade. Instead of an immediate answer, he stooped down and doodled on the ground. They demanded an answer so he stood up and told them anyone without sin should cast the first stone. The staunch accusers dwindled away and the woman was left with Jesus who said, Neither do I (condemn you). Go and sin no more. (John 8:11)
Jesus didn’t come for the purpose of condemnation-although sin does do this. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:17) Salvation was the course he preferred humanity to follow.
God sent Jesus because he loved us and because we were in the woman’s predicament. Maybe it isn’t adultery, but any sin will do. Just one, in fact, is all that’s needed to separate us from God and eternal life. The key to the woman’s resurrection to new life was sinning no more. She needed a change of heart. We do too. What’s keeping you from Jesus? Are you willing to give it up?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may we give up whatever separates from You.
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I knew she was there; I simply couldn't see her.
My daughter and I enjoyed several years of hiking when she was a preteen. She was young and fast. I was approaching 40 and slow. She normally led but remained close-except when my middle brother and son joined us. My brother was fast like my daughter but my son was slow like me. They enjoyed outwalking us. We knew they were ahead but couldn't see them until they stopped for us to catch up. It was always comforting when we did.
My future is similar. I know it's ahead even though I haven't visited it. I call it tomorrow, but tomorrow never truly arrives. When I think it has, it's today all over. I also can't see into it. It's the unknown even though I assume it's there.
The psalmist was equally sure he had one and that God controlled it. The LORD will work out his plans for my life—for your faithful love, O LORD, endures forever. (Psalm 138:8 NLT)From my viewpoint the future is uncertain, but I try controlling it anyway. Through savings, retirement funds, saving for my children's education, contributing to Social Security or by accumulating possessions.
God's viewpoint is different. He sees my future, lives in it and guarantees its certainty. Regardless of how many years it contains, he controls each one.Our challenge and responsibility is trusting God with the unknown. When we do it is no longer uncertain or frightening. Rather it’s exciting. He promises to perfect his plans for our life. And since he knows and engineers our future that's a simple thing for him to accomplish. Trust God to complete his plans in you.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, enable us to trust You with our future.
She was empty, betrayed and thirsty. Usually three strikes and you’re out. She had five.
Jesus met her in a region respectable people avoided. But then again, he wasn’t into traditions. Tired from walking, he stops at a well for rest and a drink of water. She comes at noon, probably because of her reputation. It’s not the normal time for drawing water, but it’s a good time if you want to avoid the gossiping, whispering, proper ladies.
Disregarding protocol, Jesus speaks to her and asks for a drink. The woman is just as surprised as the disciples are to see him doing it when they return. She’s also horrified that he knows her reputation. But it didn’t matter. He was concerned about her future, not her past.
When Jesus informed the woman he had water to perpetually quench her thirst, she was puzzled. “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? (John 4:11) Turns out this thirst quenching water didn’t come from a well after all but in a relationship.
Nothing has changed. Life has a way of leaving us feeling empty and betrayed. By friends, spouses, children, employers, circumstances. So we try the water of another spouse, more friends, a different job, another bank. The list is endless and we’re left disappointed.
Life’s circumstances can’t always be changed but where we look for fulfillment can. Ultimately it’s not substances, relationships, or things. It’s by saying the same thing the woman did: Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here. Conquer negative feelings and actions by inviting Jesus into your circumstances.
Prayer: Father in heaven, remind us only You can fill our life’s voids.
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Ker plump, ker plump. The noise grew louder, but I wasn’t about to stop.
Being a teenager, running a paper route and going to school are not easy things to do at the same time, but I was making a valid attempt. My route took me five miles from home and began around 3 a.m.
One night, I heard a mysterious ker plump. I was in the middle of nowheresville and didn’t want to investigate, but since the car was riding lopsided I figured I should. A flat tire. I wasn’t about to change it in the dark, so I drove it home almost ruining the rim in the process.
A prophet’s job was sharing God’s word with people who usually didn’t want to hear. Isaiah wasn’t always popular, but when he found himself running on rims of burnout, fear, disappointment and discouragement, he had a source. Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. (Isaiah 12:2)
Burnout happens when we pack too much into our schedules and don’t leave time for sleep, relaxation and mind refreshing hobbies. Disappointment creeps in when things don’t turn out as we hoped or others don’t want to hear our ideas. Discouragement pops up when we’ve done what God said but are avoided, gossiped about or even physically harmed.
God doesn’t promise his work will be popular or easy-just necessary. Comfort comes by claiming his strength to accomplish what he assigns and by believing he will defend us when we’re opposed. Rather than running on the rim of fear, let God be your strength.
Prayer: God, when fear prompts us to back up from Your assignments, give us courage to launch out into the night.
“I love you if…” “I love you because…” “But if you don’t…I won’t.”
Most wedding vows incorporate a promise to love in sickness and health, in sorrow and gladness, through good times and bad times and without reservation. Marriage vows portray the model; reality reveals, well, reality.
I’ll love you if you wash my clothes, have my children, cook my meals, clean the yard, clean the house, make the bed, buy me clothes, pay for my hair cuts, manicures and pedicures, pay the bills… Or I love you because you have a dynamite body, have a six figure job, have beautiful eyes, have a good life insurance policy, have a house, land, cows and hogs…
God, on the other hand, simply loves. He had to remind Israel because they thought he loved because or if… The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors. (Deuteronomy 7:7-8)
I’ve been guilty of loving only if the ifs and becauses are satisfied. It’s called conditional love. But God simply loves. No ifs ands or buts. He won’t love me less if I’m bad or more if I’m good. He just loves because it’s his nature to love and because I’m his creation. So are you.
Following God’s example teaches us to love others just because, whether we think they are worthy or not. Unconditional love enhances families, friendships, work places, community organizations, sports, politics and the world. Conditional love erects barriers. What will it take for you to simply love?
Prayer: God of love, enable us to love as You do.
As a teenager, I was the king of bad decisions. One landed me at a local police station.
Age fourteen began a string of poor decisions. I took up habits better left alone and hung around with people who were unruly influences. I had a wonderful home life; I just needed to rebel.
By sixteen, I was ready to leave. I threw some things together, robbed the pantry and took off for the mountains. Unfortunately, it was winter and the road I chose to hide on was covered with snow and ice. A few feet and I was stuck. My plan quickly unraveled. I walked to a nearby hotel, called a friend for help but got the police and parents instead. It was a long ride home.
To rebellious minds, Christianity is valueless, and I classified mine as such. Esau did too. “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?” (Genesis 25:32) As the oldest son, Esau would inherit most of the family estate which included spiritual heritage. He wasn’t interested. Selfishness overcame common sense, and he traded everything for a bowl of stew.
Many decisions cannot be reversed. I can’t not run away. But I can choose not to allow past regrettable decisions to continue defining me. I ran away but I’m not a runaway. I’ve lied, but I’m not a liar. When believers make flawed or sinful decisions, it’s temporary insanity. We should quickly confess, receive God’s forgiveness and move on. Christ cleans us up. We just get a little dirty sometimes walking through the world.
Let your normal heart’s desire to obey-not temporary bad decisions to disobey, define you.
Prayer: Merciful Savior, guide us to good decisions so we won’t trade our inheritance for a bowl of stew.
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We called him the “grocery list” professor. And with good reason.
He was my most lenient college professor but also the one whose tests were terribly difficult. The reason? Lists. Pop tests were passed only by studying every list I encountered while completing homework. A’s on tests required extensive preparation. On test day, I could only hope my short term memory survived because that’s as far as any information ever made it.
The author of the psalm was glad the Lord didn’t like lists, and I am too. If God kept a list of my sins, I’d buy stock in paper. And if he held the list against me, I’d be doomed. If you, LORD, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? (Psalm 130:3)
Fortunately God doesn’t keep a record. At least not for those who ask forgiveness. Unfortunately, I can’t always say the same. If I’m not careful, I’ll hold on to hurts others have inflicted on me and formulate a plan on how I can exact even more pain on them.
Instead of storing wrongs in my short term memory, I tend to rehearse them which shoves them into my long term memory. Once there, they are permanently ingrained. I may not consciously ruminate on them, but under the right circumstances they can be regurgitated.
God is more efficient. Once asked, he deletes my sin list and then allows himself to forget. What God does instantly for me, I have the responsibility of doing for others the same way-immediately releasing them from the debt they owe for the wrongs they inflicted. Who needs your forgiveness, and what’s keeping you from giving it?
Prayer: Merciful God, when we’re tempted to make a list, give us an eraser instead.
Attention to detail. Not everyone thinks it’s important, but Michael did.
Michael is the mayor of a small town in South Carolina. What he does is not for pay but out of the goodness of his heart. The town needed a facelift but had no revenue. Michael searched for grants and discovered a few but someone had to write them. He dove into the details and was rewarded with seed money. Meetings with contractors and Town Council members followed and finally yielded agreement.
Michael didn’t stop there. When the actual work began, he doubled at his job as a pharmaceutical representative and oversaw the contractors as well, making sure all details of the facelift were completed on time and according to the prescribed guidelines. The town looks like a different place but only because he gave attention to detail.
Michael was like Moses. Moses did everything just as the LORD commanded him. (Exodus 40:16)God gave Moses thorough instructions on how to construct the Tabernacle, including what type of material to use and what elements and furniture to include in it. To Moses’ credit, he did everything just as God commanded, giving attention to even the smallest elements.
Details can be cumbersome and tiring, but they’re normally crucial to reaching the desired outcome. Spiritual excellence is important when serving God. Whether we sing in the choir, teach a class, empty the trash or turn out the lights, the details are important as well as are those who complete them. We don’t serve for recognition, only to honor God. Even in the details God is present. When God gives you a job, do it timely, correctly and completely.
Prayer: Father, remind us it’s not the size of the job but whether we do it to honor You.
“Click, click, click.” His toenails brushed across the linoleum, followed by a whine and snort, then a pounce onto the bed. The process continued for four hours.
Twix, our five-year-old Chihuahua, was restless. He normally sleeps soundly, but this particular night he was anxious. My wife-a deeper sleeper, was oblivious to the scene until I jumped out of bed and said, “I’m so worked up I couldn’t sleep now if I tried.” Scooping up Fido, I delivered him to another room, slipped back into my wife’s arms and repeated the verses.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).
Life can deliver large doses of stress followed by anxiety. Belongings destroyed by fire or natural disaster, investments lost, rape, sexual abuse, bankruptcy, job elimination, marital breakup, or a loved one killed in war.
But most of the anxiety producers are less intense. Forty item people in the twenty items or less aisle, reputation tarnished by gossip, friend betrayal, dead car battery, washer tears up, freezer goes out, or a child gets in trouble with the teacher.
The “click, click, clicks” can drive us crazy if we let them, but we don’t have to be anxious about any of them. When committed to prayer, God gives wisdom on how to handle them, enables us to keep them in proper perspective, and reminds us he’s in control. More importantly, he gives peace in the midst of trouble, and peace drives out anxiety. Give your stressors to God so you can sleep in peace.
Prayer: Merciful God, teach us how to keep our anxiety level in check.
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God can use you even if you have a sordid past and don’t have your act completely together at present.
I made the statement when speaking about religious lies. Following the lecture, one gentleman commented; “At one time I thought I had it all together but I forgot where I put it.”
Being “together” was a compliment in my generation. A together person was cool, drove a souped up car, frequented bowling alleys and had habits and an appearance the older generation didn’t appreciate. I’ve never assumed I had it together. If I tried, someone would say, “But what about the time…”
Peter thought he had it together, imagining he could “walk on water.” He was the most faithful disciple and even questioned where Jesus told him to fish. He was ready to die for Jesus-or so he thought.
Peter’s self image crashed loudly. He followed at a distance after Jesus was arrested, and when questioned if he knew him, said; “Woman, I don’t know him”(Luke 22:57). But Peter’s failures weren’t permanent. Following the resurrection, Jesus met the disciples on the beach and told Peter to quit letting his failures define him. He wasn’t a fisherman any longer.
Failures are only permanent if we let them be. God doesn’t require perfect pasts or presents to use us. David labeled himself a murderer and adulterer; God said he was a man after his own heart. Actions are important, but desire and intent are more so.
Skeletons are just that unless we raise them up. Don’t let the failures of yesterday keep you from success today. God’s forgiveness is unlimited.
Prayer: Lord, when we’re tempted to say, “I can’t,” focus us upward and tell us “We can.”
Sam thinks renewing his wedding vows will solve his problems. He tarnished his first marriage by unfaithfulness and the second isn’t fairing much better. He’s abandoned Mary twice already for another woman, a far off land and wasted living. Sam lives the prodigal’s dream.
Conviction overcomes Sam, and he calls to ask if I will perform the ceremony. I agree. Two weeks later he runs away again with the same woman. He eventually returns, Mary takes him back, but he pays a price. Everyone questions his sincerity and wonders how long before he will repeat his bad behavior.
A casual reading of the verse makes it appear God’s people are serious about repentance, but Hosea knows better. Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds (Hosea 6:1).
What they voice is presumption not genuine repentance. They believe they can simultaneously hold onto sin and experience God’s presence. Even when God sends judgment, they assume it will be short lived. He isn’t really that angry. God soon demonstrates the extent of his wrath by allowing the nation to be taken into Assyrian exile.
But the verse is actually true. God will heal under the right circumstances. God only dwells in relationships where genuine repentance is present. Repentance is not shallow sorrow over getting caught but sincere regret over sin coupled with a willingness to turn in a different direction. From this juncture, a lifestyle of holiness is pursued and will invite the presence of God in a way not previously experienced. Let “I’m sorry” be followed by a different direction.
Prayer: Lord, lead us to genuine repentance followed by joyful love of You and others.
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