Restart with Excellence

Dear beloved, we gather today under the light of God's Word, embracing a profound theme that resonates within our hearts: "Restart with Excellence." Life is often a series of cycles; we experience highs and lows, successes and failures, moments of clarity and confusion. The book of Philippians, particularly the passage in chapter 4, provides us with the divine guidance necessary to navigate these seasons.

Paul's letter to the Philippians is rich with affection, encouragement, and instruction. He reveals to us three key opportunities that arise in our spiritual journeys: Review, Reset, and Renew. These principles are not just guiding tools; they illuminate our paths, enabling us to pursue excellence in every aspect of our lives.

As we delve into the text of Philippians 4:8-9, let us meditate on its profound message: 

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.”

May our thoughts be aligned with Scripture as we explore the richness of these verses.

## I. Review: Always Rely on God & His Word!

### A. Building on a Good Foundation

The first opportunity we encounter in our journey of restarting with excellence is to review. Reviewing our lives and our spiritual foundations is essential. Paul begins this section with a heartfelt appeal to the Philippian church. In verses 2-3, he specifically addresses two women by name, Euodia and Syntyche, urging them to settle their disagreement. Here, we see the need to review our relationships and circumstances for spiritual health and harmony.

In a world where conflict often seems unavoidable, let us remember Paul’s words that call for unity and reconciliation. This requires us to reflect on our past interactions, both positive and negative. God calls us to examine our hearts and minds, ensuring we align with His purpose for our lives. 

The Apostle Paul encourages us to "Rejoice in the Lord always," as found in Philippians 4:4. This joy acts as our seal of security. When we place ourselves in God's joy, we can build a foundation that withstands life’s turmoil. We can confront conflict with grace and humility, resting assured that God’s love transcends our misunderstandings.

### B. The Importance of Our Thoughts

Paul emphasizes the significance of our thoughts in this pursuit. He urges us to "fix your thoughts" on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Just as a gardener cultivates a garden, we must cultivate our minds, ensuring we weed out negativity, doubt, and discord.

In our lives, we might encounter moments where our filters fail us, similar to speaking without thinking. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." The state of our thoughts ultimately shapes our attitudes and behaviors.

I like the saying I once read in a church sign, “Worry is the darkroom where negatives develop!” Your thought become you! 

Moreover, Paul’s call upon the specific names of two women shows us the importance of community. As we reflect on our lives, it’s vital to recognize the influence of our relationships. Are we fostering unity or division? Are we bringing clarity or confusion into our interactions? 

Beloved, let us take a moment here to pause, reflect, and consider: Who in our lives may need reconciliation? What areas in our hearts have we left unexamined? As we review, let us allow the light of Christ to illuminate our hearts.

## II. Reset: Put Back to Factory Settings!

### A. Starting Again with Hope

Having taken the opportunity to review our lives, we now transition to the second opportunity: to reset. Just as a computer has a factory reset button to eliminate all errors and glitches, we, too, have the chance to reset our lives in Christ.

Paul encourages us to "fix your eyes" on the things that lead to excellence. This reset is a divine redirection, an intentional choice to recalibrate our focus. Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." 

While reminiscing about a class I attended in St. Louis, I recall Dr. William McConkey II declaring, “The Word of God stands forever. All else fades!” As Isaiah 40:8 states, “The grass withers, the flower fades, when the breath of the LORD blows upon it; surely the people are grass.” 

In the reset phase, we are not merely wishing for change; we are actively making the choice to turn our eyes away from that which distracts us. This means letting go of burdens that weigh us down, of the sins that easily entangle us, and of distractions that lead us off course.

### B. The Power of a Renewed Mind

As we reset, we must engage in the transformative power of God's Word. Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” A mind reset leads to a heart reset. When we immerse ourselves in God’s presence and Word, we become susceptible to His reshaping.

Imagine for a moment the renewed hope that comes with a reset. Think about the prodigal son who returned home to a father overflowing with love and forgiveness. No matter how far we have strayed, God allows us to reestablish our connection through His mercy. The reset opportunity is a beautiful reminder that it is never too late to turn back to God.

### C. Actions Following the Reset

Listen carefully to Paul’s instruction in verse 9, where he states, “Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me.” He urges us to act on our renewed thoughts and intentions. This is crucial; a reset without action is merely a dream. James 1:22 reminds us to be doers of the Word, not just hearers.

Beloved, this reset also brings assurance: as we engage wholeheartedly in this divine act, “Then the God of peace will be with you.” Peace follows the reset, a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). 

## III. Renew: Act Upon Your Faith!

### A. The Continuous Nature of Renewal

Lastly, Paul invites us into the third opportunity: renewal. This is a continuous act of faith. To renew is to revive and recreate, and it requires our active participation. Renewal means to change our minds and hearts to reflect God’s purpose continually. 

Ephesians 4:23 reminds us to be made new in the attitude of our minds. It’s not just a single event; it is a lifestyle choice. Paul reinforces this in Philippians 4:8 by urging us to contemplate what is excellent and praiseworthy. 

### B. Practicing Renewal in Daily Life

So how do we practice renewal? It begins with small, consistent choices. We renew through prayer, reading Scripture, meditating on God's Word, and surrounding ourselves with godly influences. Each of these habits helps us to sharpen our focus and strengthen our resolve.

Consider the words of Psalm 1:2-3: “But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night, that person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season…” When we prioritize God’s presence, we position ourselves for renewal.

### C. The Assurance of God’s Presence

In conclusion, let us remember Paul’s closing words: “Then the God of peace will be with you.” This assurance is not just a comforting thought; it is a promise. As we navigate the cycles of life—through review, reset, and renewal—we find ourselves in the comforting embrace of God’s peace.

The journey is not easy. As Voddie Baucham once said, “You can't have it both ways... either the gospel transforms everything... or it transforms nothing.” In our pursuit of excellence in choices, relationships, and attitudes, let us fully embrace the transformative power of the gospel.

## Closing

As we conclude, I encourage each of us to consider our starting point today. What areas of our lives need reviewing? Where do we need to reset our focus back on Jesus? What actions will we take to renew our minds and hearts?

Let this message be a call to action, an invitation to restart with excellence in God’s grace. May we not merely hear these words but put them into practice, leaning into the promises found in Philippians 4:8-9. 

Let us pray together.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Word. Help us as we take the opportunities to review, reset, and renew our lives in You. May we fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Fill us with Your peace as we commit to living in excellence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May God bless you richly as you seek His excellence in every facet of your life!

Running To A Fire: You Wouldn’t Believe It!

Why do people run into a fire instead of run away?

Driving back from a trip to Illinois we came upon a large fire as we came through Plymouth, Indiana. You could see the smoke for miles. It was thick and very black. As we got closer, we could see more traffic, actually headed toward the fire that way. Cars were lining up and jamming into the back of the parking lot of a local Pilot gas station to watch it burn!

A car fire 3 years ago.

The smoke was coming from a large tractor trailer parked in the lot. What does though they were a couple trucks that have caught fire. Emergency crew was on scene, but was having trouble putting the fire out. According to local dispatch that we were able to listen, the announcement came across that the fire department was out of water.

Yep, the people kept coming to stare at the blaze. I’ll never quite understand what the attraction is, but people wanted to watch.  What is it about a fire that draws people to it. Like a bug to the flame, especially at a gas station! Although we looked, we kept going not wanting to be part of the epicenter in the event of a major gas explosion. 

Dispatch confirmed that it was a truck from Minnesota, but suffered much of the damage. Others were impacted without a doubt, but you just never know what you’ll see when traveling.

This week edition of the strangest things you may encounter makes me wonder what is wrong with people who would want to gawk & stare? 

Dispatch seemed to communicate that they were putting fire out and had things under control, but could you just imagine the amount of cost associated with this freak fire.

If I hear more, I’ll let you know, but that’s it from the front row of my vehicle windshield.

Retreat. But, Don’t Run Away!

As we prepare for our upcoming Study at Woodhaven on June 1, 2025, I reflect on several years spent camping at Lake Michigan with our youth group. Those trips were anything but restful. I often remember the chaos of meal preparations, the excitement of the kids, and the planning involved. My wife frequently commented that it took me two to three days just to unwind and truly relax! Today, let's dive into the profound concept of rest, particularly as presented in the book of Hebrews.

The Importance of Rest

Hebrews 4 offers a powerful exploration of Sabbath rest. In verse 1, we find the phrase "there remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God," inviting us to appreciate rest's significance—not merely in physical terms but as a pathway to spiritual renewal in the presence of the Lord. 

In our fast-paced lives, responsibilities, deadlines, and distractions often overwhelm us. God, in His wisdom, established times of rest for our well-being. The Sabbath serves as a divine invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with Him, allowing us to experience the peace found in an intimate relationship with our Creator.

Taking a retreat—or simply creating intentional moments for rest—can rejuvenate our spirits. Just as the Israelites were called to remember the Sabbath and keep it holy, we, too, must take time for deep communion with God. This is not just a time for leisure but an opportunity to recalibrate our hearts, listen for His voice, and draw strength from His presence.

What Does a Retreat Look Like?

During these moments of retreat, consider engaging in:

1. Spending Time in Prayer: Approach God with your concerns, fears, and praises, inviting Him into your heart and life.

2. Meditation on Scripture: Let the Word of God wash over you, bringing insight, wisdom, and comfort.

3. Being Still: Carve out moments of silence to listen to worship music and allow God’s presence to envelop you.

4. Christian Fellowship: Surrounding yourself with fellow believers can provide encouragement, insight, and support on your spiritual journey.

While many people grapple with the meaning of the Sabbath and retreat, it is essential to understand that it transcends merely marking a day on a calendar. Some may confuse Sabbath with Sunday or Saturday, leading to misunderstanding. The essence of Sabbath does not lie in the day itself but in the principles that God communicates to us through it.

A Little Humor: The Pirate with Moles

Just as an illustration, consider the story of a pirate who had moles on his back. When a doctor reassured him that they were benign, the pirate insisted, "I think there be ten!" This humorous take reminds us not to get lost in our worries, as move past mere surface-level concerns to uncover the deeper truths God has for us.

Striving to Enter Rest

Hebrews encourages us to strive to enter God’s rest, aligning ourselves with His rhythm for our lives. This time of retreat should remind us that our worth is not tethered to our productivity but to our identity as beloved children of God. Ultimately, rest in the Lord is about trust—trusting that He holds our concerns and that we can lay our burdens at His feet.

As we embrace our Sabbath rest, we draw closer to God’s heart and find true refreshment for our souls. In our spiritual journey, God reveals three key opportunities: Review, Reset, and Renew. These principles serve not only as guidance along our path but as a blueprint for studying the Word of God: 

1. Review the Word.

2. Reset our Lives.

3. Renew our Lives in Christ!

The Assurance of God’s Promises

Hebrews 4:9-11 emphasizes a profound and ongoing Sabbath rest available for the people of God. Let's examine key points highlighted in these verses:

1. Promise of Rest:  

This passage affirms that a "Sabbath-rest" remains for God's people, inviting believers into deeper communion with Him. Hebrews 4:3 proclaims, "For we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said, 'As in my anger I swore, They shall not enter my rest…'" 

Do you believe in the promises God gives us? Do you have a life verse that resonates with you? My personal life verse, Philippians 1:6—"I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ"—encourages me to rest in God's promises for my life.

How many promises exist in the Bible? Herbert Lockyer's volume "All the Promises of the Bible" recounts Everett R. Storms, a Canadian teacher who found a grand total of 8,810 promises (7,487 of which were specifically given to individuals).

2. Spiritual Rest:  

The rest referred to in this passage extends far beyond physical rest—it is a spiritual repose that comes from faith in Jesus Christ. The writer of Hebrews links this rest to a relationship with God, where believers can discover peace and fulfillment (Hebrews 4:7-8). Often, we feel tired, not from physical exertion but from spiritual restlessness. We carry burdens that we could easily pass to God, but learning to let go is challenging.

Consider physically responding to this message. Clench your hands as if grasping onto these burdens, and as you pray, release your grip, giving your concerns to God. You will be amazed as you discover that releasing those weights enables you to lift your hands in praise.

3. Warning Against Disobedience:  

The verses also caution us against disobedience and unbelief. Just as the Israelites missed their opportunity to enter the Promised Land due to a lack of faith, believers are urged to strive towards entering this rest, learning from past mistakes (Hebrews 4:11).

4. Call to Action:  

The passage encourages believers to "make every effort" to enter that rest. This divine call entails actively pursuing a life rooted in faith, trust, and reliance on God, recognizing that true rest can only be found in Him.

5. Completion Through Faith:  

Finally, the idea of rest is intertwined with completion—the peace that comes from resting in God's finished work through Christ. Hebrews 4:9-10 states, "So then, a Sabbath rest still remains for the people of God; for those who enter God's rest also cease from their labors as God did from His."

Conclusion: Finding Spiritual Rest

As we reflect on Hebrews 4, let us strive to find spiritual rest. The Word reminds us in Hebrews 4:12 that "Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword," challenging us to engage with it deeply and intentionally.

C.T. Studd, a British missionary, poignantly articulated the essence of our lives through his poem "Only One Life." It serves as a reminder that we are entrusted with a brief moment on this earth and what we do for Christ will endure eternally.

Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life's busy way;

Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

As we close, let us pray and pause to receive silently:

- Fill my heart with Your love.

- Fill my soul with Your peace.

- Fill my mind with Your wisdom.

- Fill my ears with Your voice.

- Fill my eyes with Your compassion.

- Fill my mouth with Your words of life.

- May my hands be found serving.

- May my knees bow in surrender.

- May my feet walk in obedience.

Embrace the Sabbath-rest God offers and retreat into His presence, for it is there that we will find complete renewal.

New Weekly Segment: You Wouldn’t Believe It!

The thought occurred to me that there are times when things happen that I wish I had written it down. They’re unbelievable! Life is filled with many of those types of experiences.

You too could write those down from your own life journey. Over the course of time, we all encounter those strange experiences, or observe the most unusual of circumstances. They are stories that will keep us laughing and shaking our heads, wondering how that could’ve happened.

A few years back, I was ringing the Salvation Army bell. It’s become a tradition for me, though. I have backed off quite a bit and most recent years. You might call this entry a bit of a catch-up of these sort of strange events.

I was ringing the bell for the Salvation Army at Walmart. Yes, this is a Walmart story so it makes it more believable. 

I heard a faint voice echo behind me as I greeted people with the other familiar of Salvation Army Bell. The Voice carried with a bit of urgency, “Ma’am, you don’t want to do this!” I turned to discover to my surprise that a man was following an older lady who was pushing a large screen television out the front doors near me. He kept persisting and asking her to stop. He kept telling her that this is wrong and that she should leave the store without taking the large screen television.

I watched curiously. I stared in unbelief that the man walked her all the way to her van, insisting that this is called theft and that she would go to jail. She even attempted to load it herself. She was able to load it and the store security could not touch her to prevent her from this criminal act.  As she got into her car to drive off, joined by other security officials, they quickly wrote down vehicle descriptions, and license plate numbers as this strange thing happened right in front of my eyes! 

Eventually, the police did arrive, and I was an eyewitness to a crime. I was told that the security personnel were forbidden from touching or stopping the shoplifter, but that they knew who it was, and they would approach her later, charging her with a crime hopefully.

It was an absurd activity observed that day. I thought of the contradiction in the irony that here I was ringing the bell to collect donations to assist people in need while observing a woman who simply helped her self through theft.

Truth is indeed stranger than fiction.

Worship: Filled and Poured Out.

Have you been someplace spiritually where you feeling like you are never enough? Have you ever felt that you will never be filled enough to make an impact? These are feelings that I have felt. You?

As we worship, we are asking God to fill us so that we can be a blessing to others. BUT….. What if God is enough? What if our worship is for God alone? What if we worship so that we only desire to praise God? 

We are filled with His presence so that we can know God more and more! Our worship is for God alone. He is worthy! Praise is the goal! Worship is emptying ourselves of self and being filled with God’s presence. Whenever we are in the way we limit God’s presence in our lives. It is about Him! Alone!! 

As we are emptied of self, we make room for God to fill us by His Spirit! As we worship, His presence is living inside to declare His glory - in me! In all of us! 

Tonight, I “get-to” worship with others who are poured out for young people! The YFC family I serve with have gathered to be filled! 

As I write this entry, a faith leader of our team, a young lady, shared from 1 Samuel 7. She shared that the people “poured out” themselves at Ebenezer. 

Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Jeshanah, and named it Ebenezer; for he said, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.”

Wow! What a powerful experience to think that these people - and many like them - serve to journey with those going through hard times! In the lives of young people, they are poured out. 

Then Samuel said, “Gather all Israel at Mizpah, and I will pray to the LORD for you.” So they gathered at Mizpah, and drew water and poured it out before the LORD.

Wow! The worship tonight reminds me and others that God is! God is ….

… powerful … present … provider … personal … protector … peace …

The God we sang about and sang to is in always present now and tomorrow. 

What is it that you are calling upon God for? Is it pride? Are you crying out for peace in broken pieces? What do you need to call out to God for?

God YOU ARE ENOUGH. My cry is to God and declare that YOU ARE ENOUGH. I need to remember that it is about God and His glory. 

Strange isn’t it? As I am emptied for God, He fills us with Himself! Poured out and filled enough to be used by God (for His glory)! 

God, you have done this again and again! Why worry? Why rise up in my own strength? Why give my answer when it is only God’s answer that matters? 

God, you are enough! Which means that I am enough! I declare your praise! I am not worthy BUT God, you are enough!

So, I declare tonight in my vulnerability! I declare that you are able! I declare that you will do it! I declare that you are more than able — to do exceedingly more than anything I can ask or imagine! (Eph. 3:20-21) It is according to your work in and through broken vessels. 

Thank you God for …. 

What Ai CANNOT Do!

As incredible as it is, there are some things that we must admit cannot be solved through Artificial Intelligence (AI). I know, right? We are told that it solves everything from problem-solving to automation to cloning our very identity. Who knows? It may have even helped me edit this article. 

We are told that it can solve hundreds of thousands of redundancies in our lives. We have smartphones, smartwatches, smart TVs, smart refrigerators, and other appliances. We can set alarms and have it do repetitive tasks, all the while doing deep research and creating deep fakes!

Nevertheless, it has limitations. We’ve been told that it is only as smart as the information that is fed into the computer system. Even quantum mechanics will be incredibly productive with enough data crunching to solve problems the size of our galaxy. While that may be a slight exaggeration, we are seeing serious revolutions in system management like never before.

However, one thing that AI cannot do is pray for us. Of course, it can create incredible documents, and it can even do an impressive job of writing prayers. But it cannot intercede on our behalf to God.

Scripture says that Jesus is our intercessor to God, and because of our relationship with Him through the blood of Christ, we can boldly approach God in prayer on behalf of our needs and the needs of others. If you’re a Christian today, you have more power than the whole internet combined because you can go to God in prayer.

So, why do I bring this up? It’s a reminder that no matter how smart we think we are, we still lack in our ability and need for God. We could be clever, creative, collaborative, and even compelling, but it’s no match for the power of God in our lives. 

Artificial intelligence, though impressive, could never replace prayer.

It’s amazing that there are computer implants giving people the ability to speak, walk, and process their thinking abilities, among other things. This article is not a complaint nor a call for us to go back to the Stone Age. In fact, it’s a reminder that no matter how smart we think we are, we still need God in our lives!

Warehouses filled with computers draining power supplies throughout the country are no match for the capacity that even we, as human beings, can have through Christ with God. 

When Scripture tells us in Philippians that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” we are simply submitting to the authority of God.

In conclusion, while we continue to advance in technology and harness the power of artificial intelligence, we must remember that there are realms in which human connection and divine intervention are irreplaceable. The ability to pray, to connect with God, and to seek His guidance transcends any technological achievement. Our relationship with God provides us with strength, wisdom, and purpose that AI simply cannot replicate. Let us embrace the gifts of technology while recognizing the fundamental truth that our spiritual needs can only be met through our Creator. In a world increasingly dominated by machines, may we never lose sight of the profound importance of prayer and our dependence on God.

Why Mission Matters!

The last several days I’ve been attending a conference and mingling among friends that I have gotten to know for the last four years or so. The conference is an intensive training experience on how to develop mission that defines ministry that equips others in their Calling. 

The kitchen crew.

For over 40 years, Dr. William McConkey has lead a network and team to resource ministries. It has been a joy to participate over the last three or so years. My friend and mentor, Howard Robbins from On the Edge Ministries introduce me to this experience.

There is so much available in this conference that is enriching. From fellowship to prayer and worship that unites us in God-size, Kingdom-level training. Ministries of all sizes participate. Some we would know very well like, Ron Hutchcraft Ministries & CRU, while others are small, local ministries that serve in small, yet powerful ways. The knowledge gained from this experience helps better define the mission and purpose by better understanding our cause statement.

Discussion and tactics were part of the experience as well as in-depth training, modules that touch on every aspect of organizational development in the nonprofit sector. Ideas were shared as well as challenging suppositions to become better at our ministry focus.

Everyone can improve. Woven within this conference is an understanding that none of us have been perfected in any of the disciplines required for nonprofit organizational development. Whether that be fundraising or in staffing or even ministry opportunities, we all are enriched through the experience of coming together to learn.

Kicking off the experience was a bit of a day of rest and worship. Attending the Sutter Presbyterian Church, where McConkey is also the pastor is a great way to begin. This diverse community is evangelical and leads ministries from across the world learn how to better develop their efforts to reach with purpose, and for the glory of God those whom they are called to serve. Everything begins and ends with God, both for His purpose and glory. Centered around this theme helps us to remain humble and to seek God for his resources needed to accomplish the work God calls us to lead.

This conference was both inspiring and insightful. So much to learn yet be equipped to do better is important. To hear what others are doing truly and it inspires others as well.

Learning how to develop and grow your nonprofit organization is filled with many challenges. With well over 1 million nonprofit organizations set up an annually, 30-50% or more fail in the first few years. That’s amazing! Most fail because they don’t understand their cause nor how to communicate it to others to raise needed financial support to further its development.

Studies suggest that a substantial percentage, potentially 30% to 50% or even more, close down in the first year or two. (Source)

Through the years of experience with the teams McConkey Management Development Institute (MMDI) have assisted hundreds, if not thousands of organizations around the world. Through a multi-disciplined approach in development,  nonprofits learn the basic & essential tools needed for it to succeed.

Serving meals

Mission does matter. Your cause makes a difference! Serving Christ is eternal. Nothing done for God’s Kingdom is ever wasted!

Learning the tactical, as well as the strategic makes a difference. We are all learners! Your passion alone will not accomplish the dream that is in your heart. (This picture shows a ministry,  New Life meal ministry serving low income families in the name of Christ. Ministries like this can benefit from MMDI.

The last four days have been tiresome, but worth it! Conference with like-minded, Christian leaders is refreshing. Learning the how to “get ‘er done” is essential. Do you have a passion in your heart that God has given you? Let’s talk!

If you want your mission to succeed, you will need to learn how to develop the organization. Relationships matter most. Cultivate your cause and build support through prayer are primary. The development process is a system and tactics that serve the cause by furthering your mission is the answer to growth. 

It is essential to learn the system for development. I like the statement that; “You don’t rise to measure of the goals.  You fall to the level of your systems.” (James Clear)