Why Prayer Matters: Insights from the Life of Hezekiah

In my ongoing "Why Matters" series, we're delving into another pivotal lesson gleaned from the Old Testament, particularly the life of King Hezekiah. Far too often, prayer is taken for granted. It's treated merely as a tool for getting what we want, akin to a cosmic Santa Claus or a magical genie. To understand the true essence of prayer, we must recognize that it is essential, even amidst non-ideal circumstances.

Hezekiah’s Life: A Testament to the Power of Prayer

Hezekiah's life was far from perfect. Here are a few significant observations about him:

1. Survival Amidst Darkness: His life was spared during a time when child sacrifice was prevalent.

2. A Dismal Legacy: He grew up under a father, King Ahaz, whose reign was marked by evil and idol worship, akin to the infamous Jezebel and Ahab.

3. Youthful Leadership: He became king at just 25 years old.

4. Human Flaws: Like all of us, Hezekiah made mistakes.

5. Limited Choices: His options were restricted by the political and spiritual turmoil of his time.

Yet, in the face of these challenges, Hezekiah exemplified remarkable faith:

1. Obedience Under Pressure: He chose to obey God despite tremendous external pressure.

2. Courage to Stand for Righteousness: He stood up for truth even when it was unpopular.

3. Restoration of True Worship: He guided his people back to God.

4. A Godly Rule: He governed righteously.

5. Devotion to Prayer: Above all, Hezekiah prayed, which is crucial to understanding our discussion today.

The Role of Prayer

Despite less than ideal circumstances, the role of prayer for any believer is both life-giving and life-changing. Prayer can be summarized in three key truths:

1. Prayer is Simple but Never Easy: Though it seems straightforward, the reality of prayer can be incredibly challenging.

2. Prayer is the Answer to Our Questions: It serves as guidance through our struggles and uncertainties.

3. Prayer is Our Lifeline and a Lifestyle: It is foundational to our existence, much like the air we breathe.

Let's explore these truths further.

Prayer is Simple, Yet Not Easy (2 Kings 18:1-7)

Think of prayer as tapping into an immense power source—it fuels our Christian life. Without it, we're akin to flashlights without batteries, ineffective and lifeless.

Consider the numerous elements involved in using electrical power. There are kilowatts, volts, positive and negative charges. Similarly, prayer is not merely transactional; it's a profound connection with God that goes beyond our immediate needs. In Hezekiah's case, his prayer life granted him extraordinary ability to navigate his turbulent world.

Importantly, God desires our approach, just as Hezekiah approached Him. Through prayer, Hezekiah displayed:

- Trust in God

- Faithfulness to His commandments

- Steadfastness in the face of adversity

Scripture underscores that prayer is a foundational aspect of the Christian life. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us not to be anxious but to pray in every situation, assuring us that God's peace will guard our hearts and minds.

Prayer is the Answer to Our Questions (2 Kings 19:1-7, 14-16, 35-36)

This is where the narrative becomes particularly engaging. While prayer is often the answer, many of us mistakenly approach it with preconceived solutions rather than seeking God's guidance. In the saga of Hezekiah, we find the king earnestly seeking God for answers rather than attempting to solve his problems through his understanding.

If we need, God will provide—not necessarily what we want, but what is truly needed.

- If we question, He will respond.

- If we are troubled, He will accompany us.

- If we turn to Him, He will deliver us.

The scriptures remind us that the prayers of the righteous have great power (James 5:16). For instance, Elijah's brief prayer sparked a significant divine response, demonstrating that heartfelt prayer yields tangible results.

As we explore 2 Kings, we encounter a backdrop of turmoil. The Assyrian army threatened God’s people, and amid this stress, Hezekiah remained faithful, seeking divine intervention. He spread out the blasphemous letter from the Assyrians before the Lord and prayed fervently.

In a remarkable moment of divine response, God told Hezekiah through the prophet Isaiah not to fear. God's assurance culminated in the dramatic defeat of the Assyrian army, by ann Angel of God  illustrating the profound impact of Hezekiah’s prayer.

Prayer as Our Lifeline and a Lifestyle (2 Kings 20:1-11)

When we perceive prayer as a lifeline, it becomes integral to our way of living. In 2 Kings 20, we see God extend Hezekiah's life after he prayed earnestly in response to a death sentence delivered by Isaiah.

Hezekiah's plea was heartfelt: he invoked his faithfulness and past service to God. His prayer is a model for us: what would we do for God if given a second chance at life? Would we use our extended time for His glory? 

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that extension of life doesn’t guarantee a free pass; Hezekiah later made choices that brought judgment upon his people. Thus, prayer should always focus not just on physical well-being but on the overarching purpose of glorifying God.

Rather than concentrating solely on our physical needs, we ought to admit our dependence on God for our spiritual health, often praying for the redemption of souls rather than mere resolutions of temporal issues. When someone dies tragically, as I experienced with my friend Greg Welch, prayer becomes a vital conduit for understanding God’s greater plan.

Conclusion

As we conclude, it's clear that prayer offers simple yet profound support during complex struggles. It is both the answer to our challenges and a vital aspect of our daily lives. In our need for alignment with God's will, let us commit to praying faithfully and earnestly.

Pray this prayer and attempt to make application into your life.

Heavenly Father, thank You for listening. Thank You for speaking to us. Help us to listen to Your Word and to share it with others. May our wills align with Your Way. In Jesus' name, amen.

Why Vision Matters: Forecasting and Faith

Vision is the lens through which we interpret our lives and navigate the tumultuous waters of existence. It enables us to forecast potential outcomes and pursue our goals with a sense of purpose. In the spiritual realm, vision becomes synonymous with faith—a belief in what is yet to be realized. 

Today's exploration of vision draws inspiration from the powerful narrative in 2 Kings 13:14-19 and the wisdom found in Proverbs 29:18. We'll delve into the life of Elisha, a prophet whose actions embodied the essence of spiritual insight and determination, urging us to not stop short of our potential. It is a reminder that we need to pass onto our children and grandkids! 

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The Value of Vision: Understanding Elisha's Last Acts

Elisha, known for his prophetic abilities, faced the twilight of his life in a world steeped in idolatry and moral decay. 2 Kings 13:14 recounts how King Jehoash of Israel sought Elisha's counsel during his final illness. The prophet's words held not just personal guidance for the king but a divine promise to the nation.

In 2 Kings 13:15-16, Elisha instructed Jehoash to take a bow and shoot an arrow out of an east window. This act symbolized God’s deliverance over the Arameans, emblematic of the battle awaiting the king. However, the subsequent instructions to strike the ground with arrows bore witness to Jehoash's lack of faith. The king struck the ground only three times, leading to Elisha’s disappointment: "You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it" (2 Kings 13:19).

The Lesson of Effort and Faithfulness

What can we learn from Joash’s misstep? Vision requires commitment and action, but it also demands belief in God's power for transformation. As Chuck Swindoll remarked, our culture often embraces a complacent mentality that discourages perseverance. If we cease striving, we risk stopping short of our spiritual potential.

A profound realization is that genuine growth necessitates a “holy dissatisfaction”—a recognition that our current state is not the end. Kofi Annan emphasized this idea, advocating for a desire to improve for God’s glory. The path of faith is not merely a passive journey but an active pursuit.

The Challenges of Leadership and Direction

With age and experience come wisdom, but they also bring the recognition of our limitations. In a humorous anecdote, a 72-year-old man discovered that wisdom can often lead to unconventional choices. Encountering a frog, instead of kissing it for a chance at love, he preferred the company of a talking frog. This illustrates how our choices reflect our understanding and values.

Joash's decisions during his reign provide a snapshot of human complexity—anyone can struggle with spiritual vision and commitment. His awareness of God was merely nominal—sufficient to drive him to Elisha but not deep enough to inspire sustained faith and commitment.

We need to recognizing God’s Vision for ourselves and our world! 

Total Belief in God’s Way

Belief is the foundation upon which vision stands. In 2 Kings 13:15, when Elisha told Joash to get his bow and arrows, each action represented a step in affirming God's plan. Similarly, our faith must intersect with our actions if we aim for impactful outcomes.

Consider President John F. Kennedy's goal of landing a man on the moon, articulated in 1961: "I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon." Such a statement was visionary, igniting aspirations that transformed technology and human achievement. Had he set goals only based on the current capabilities of his time, the moon landing would have remained a distant fantasy.

The challenge is clear: if we measure our objectives according to what we think is achievable, we restrict ourselves from experiencing God's limitless possibilities.

Fully Submitting to God

In 2 Kings 13:14, Joash demonstrated his humanity by mourning Elisha’s impending death. Yet, his grief did not translate into complete submission to God’s authority. He sought control and, in his limited vision, achieved only temporary victories against the Arameans. 

To illustrate this idea, we look to Johnny Weissmuller, a legendary swimmer and actor. He was spotted cast for a bigger role in Hollywood.  He eventually became the earliest depiction of Tarzan the Ape Man. While Weissmuller’s records were eventually surpassed by athletes decades younger, this highlights our potential and the need to continually evolve. Just like achieving greatness in sports requires consistent effort, spiritual growth demands total submission to God's purposes.

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Listening to God's Detailed Instructions

Understanding God’s vision requires careful listening and adherence to His directives. In 2 Kings 13:18-19, despite receiving the prophet’s insights, Joash faltered by ceasing to strike the ground. 

When God lays out a plan, it is essential to follow it diligently. This is akin to a game of "Simon Says"; failure to follow the commands can lead to incomplete victories. By striking only three times, Joash presumed he knew how to achieve success without fully engaging in the process.

The Narratives of Possession

Ultimately, 2 Kings 13:20-21 depicts the lingering impact of Elisha’s life even in death. His bones revived a man, underscoring a profound truth: the legacy of faith and the potential it holds can transcend our earthly existence.

We are reminded that God sees our potential beyond our limits. As we allow His Spirit to control and guide us, we become vessels of His transformative power.

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The Call to Press On

In Philippians 3:12-14, the apostle Paul encourages believers to press toward the goal laid before them, shedding the past to embrace what lies ahead. A focus on future aspirations ignites hope and purpose, motivating us to pursue the fullness of what God has designed for our lives.

The story of Ignace Jan Paderewski, who supported a young boy playing “Chopsticks,” before he was to perform on a large stage in front of many fans in the Theatre. The little boy busily rushed to the stage to the surprise of his parents and the large audience. He started to play “Chopsticks.” The famous piano player was amused and came up behind the boy at the piano and carefully put his professional hands on the keyboard whispering into the boys ear, “Keep playing, keep playing!” This reveals how mentorship and encouragement can cultivate potential. In the same way, God whispers to us amidst our struggles, urging us not to stop pursuing His vision for our lives.

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Conclusion: Embracing God's Vision

As we reflect on these principles, we are reminded that vision is not merely a hopeful outlook; it is an active engagement with faith, belief, and God’s leading. Elisha’s legacy teaches us to totally believe in God’s way, fully submit ourselves, carefully heed His voice, and fully possess Him so that we may realize our potential.

May we commit ourselves to seeking God’s vision, recognizing that He sees possibilities where we see limitations. In this pursuit, we unlock the divine potential within us—ending not just battles but transforming lives and communities for God’s glory.

As the hymn reminds us, let us continue to move forward in faith and in expectation of what God can do through us, refusing to stop short of His magnificent plan.

Closing Benediction:

"Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your vision. Thank You for granting us insight into where You are working and for endowing us with the wisdom to do good. May we embrace Your heart and align our actions with Your plan. Help us respond to Your leadership with love for others. Grant us Your wisdom, for Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Why Does Our Church Matter?

The significance of the church cannot be overstated, especially within the framework of our spiritual journeys. As we delve into the third lesson of our "Why Series," we reflect on two prior lessons: that children matter, and families matter. Today, we focus on a vital question: Why does our church matter?

Listen to audio here. 

The church is more than a building or an institution; it is a living organism composed of God’s people. To delve into this concept, I you may reflect on your own Church experience or church history.  You may find the building blocks upon which our church's foundation rests. Our future endeavors are only as strong as the principles laid down by those before us.

In the coming weeks, we will also explore the themes of vision, leadership, and prayer, all of which are interconnected with the existence and purpose of the church. 

Recently, a member of the Lancaster Wesleyan Church shared why her church matters. Hear that audio here. 

The Living Church

The church is alive! It is not simply a building defined by brick and mortar. Instead, it serves as a vibrant gathering of believers, a beacon of hope, and a sanctuary for worship. The church exists not just for itself but for the glory of God, acting as a place of worship where we come together in fellowship.

As the body of Christ, we are reminded that we are the church. We are God’s temple; we are the custodians of His presence. This brings us to our next reflection: Why does our church exist?

God’s Best Instrument

The church is God’s best instrument for reaching those who are lost, marginalized, and in need of hope. Matthew 28:18-20 contains the Great Commission, which commands us to make disciples of all nations. This is not merely a suggestion; it is a divine directive. The purpose of the church is to spread the gospel and reflect the love of Christ to the world.

The essence of the church can be defined in several ways:

- The church is people, not buildings.

- The church is made up of followers of Jesus.

- The church consists of workers in God’s Kingdom.

- The church is a community of worshipers of God.

But who are we, and what is our purpose? A challenging yet illuminating question was posed: If your church ceased to exist, would anyone miss it? This question embodies the essence of our impact on the community. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to train up a child, essentially passing our faith heritage to the next generation.

The church matters deeply because God established it and blessed it. Our congregation is not a mere social club; we are called to be ministered to and to minister to others for God’s glory.

The Nature of the Church

As we examine early church practices in the Book of Acts, we observe that the first church was filled with vitality and purpose, living out their faith in community. Today, however, many churches have evolved to fit contemporary culture, potentially losing the essence of their original mission. 

Filled with His Presence: Acts 1:8 reinforces our identity as believers empowered by the Holy Spirit. The early church was characterized by the presence of God manifested through its people. Our distinctiveness as the body of Christ in a secular world is marked by the presence of the Holy Spirit working within us.

Understanding Our Identity

Every individual has an innate emptiness that often seeks fulfillment in worldly distractions or material possessions. However, as believers, we are invited to be filled with the Holy Spirit, which offers true fulfillment and purpose. 

God’s presence in our lives enables us to be effective vessels of transformation. Through the power and promises of God, we can extend hope to others, leading them to embrace the love and grace of Christ.

God’s people make the difference:

- They reflect God’s love in their communities.

- They carry God’s presence into various spheres of influence.

- They embody the promises of God through action.

- They share the good news of the gospel.

- They offer peace amidst broken pieces. 

Worshipers and Workers of Jesus Christ

In addition to being witnesses of God’s work, we are worshipers and workers of Jesus Christ. Our worship is a response to who God is and what He has done in our lives. Our role as worshipers involves allowing the Holy Spirit to fill us and inspire our actions.

Reflecting on the influential figures in my life—people like Clyde, the Candy Man, Carl Brooks, who gave me my first Bible (The Living Bible), and Ada, my camp counselor—I see the profound impact that dedicated worshipers can have. 

Revelation 3:20 illustrates the relational nature of God, depicting Him as someone who knocks gently on the door of our hearts. This imagery reinforces that God desires to connect with us personally. This connection extends beyond the individual; it permeates our communities and churches.

As a congregation, we are called to:

- Make a difference through collective worship.

- Serve one another and the community.

- Become a holy priesthood that intercedes for others.

The Importance of Community

The church is not only about personal spiritual growth but also about coming together as a body to glorify God. Worship and work are intrinsically linked; our works do not earn us salvation, but they affirm our faith and validate the God we worship. 

As we serve in various ministries, we embody the mission of the church, inviting others into a relationship with Jesus. By proclaiming the gospel, we fulfill our divine mandate.

Summary: Why Does Our Church Matter?

In summary, the importance of our church can be distilled into several key points:

1. It is God’s best instrument for outreach and ministry.

2. We are filled with His presence through the Holy Spirit.

3. We exist as worshipers and workers for Jesus Christ.

Closing Prayer

"Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your church. Help us to understand Your plan for us. May we actively participate according to Your purpose. May we respond in love to all people and strive to do Your good for Your glory! In Jesus’ name, amen."

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Hazards Ahead!

It’s unavoidable. It’s dangerous. It’s always a surprise.

Hazards are everywhere along my journey across my travels. It never ceases to amaze me the amount of things that can get in the way along the road. I have nearly hit abandoned tires or busted down vehicles and even car parts. All of a sudden there it is - a hazard.

If you’re not on the lookout and quick to avoid, hazards can set you back. I expect them even though they are surprise. It’s as if they jump out at you. Especially, when you’re in a hurry, you don’t need a flat tire or an accident report.

Unbelievably, many drive like it is a race; an Indy 500. Accidents happen when people don’t pay attention. Hazards are everywhere!

Not only in my travels but also in my life, hazards happen. As in road-rage and life, we can be derailed in our journey spiritually. How do you manage the chaos and hazards all around? 

The Bible talks about such things. It encourages us to avoid certain practices, and it gives us instructions along the way. we can’t control what is outside of ourselves. Yet, we can avoid overreacting or responding with hostile intentions. Sure, we shake our heads and disbelief, but, we look to God for wisdom, and to have the right attitude when negative things interfere with our lives.

Speaking of hazards, after writing this article and putting it as a draft, I came upon one of those hazards that I’m speaking about. It looked like debris off a truck and in the heavy traffic it was unavoidable. thankfully, there was no damage, but again a reminder that there will be distractions and hazards ahead.

Making This World a Better Place: Leaving a Positive Legacy

In today’s fast-paced, secular society, it is increasingly evident that many families do not uphold traditional values and godly principles. As we scan through the headlines, we often read about the breakdown of familial bonds, the rise of individualism, and the diminishing presence of faith in our communities. Statistics reveal a troubling trend; for instance, many individuals who identify as Christians lack basic biblical literacy, struggling to articulate core beliefs or identify foundational events in the Christian faith. Despite such disheartening observations, there remains a beacon of hope for those proactive in leaving a positive legacy. This essay will explore how we can make the world a better place through three pivotal actions: developing character through obedience, nurturing godly heritage over time, and standing in the gap for generations to come.

## Joshua 4:1-11: Memorializing Our Faith

The story from Joshua 4:1-11 provides a compelling narrative on the importance of creating lasting memories of faith. In this passage, after the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, God instructed Joshua to select twelve men, one from each tribe, to gather stones from the Jordan's middle. This act aimed to create a memorial for future generations to remember how God intervened and delivered His people. This poignant reminder implies that the legacies we build today will etch profound impressions on our children and future generations, making it essential to embody and impart values that align with God’s character.

### Character is Formed Through Obedience

The formation of character begins within the family unit. William James once articulated that character is best defined by moments when one feels most alive and engaged with their moral compass. Character fundamentally indicates who we are in our hearts and guides our interactions with the world. John Wooden summarized it succinctly: "Your character is what you really are; your reputation is what others think you are."

Drawing from Joshua’s obedience to God’s directives, we observe that the Israelite families were urged to follow specific protocols set out for their benefit. The priests holding the Ark of the Covenant served as spiritual leaders, embodying God’s commands and leading the people into the promised land. This conveys a clear message: obedience to God lays the groundwork for building character. When families prioritize living according to God’s will, they nurture the very foundation of their character.

Dad playing catch with his kids.

In contrast, failure to emphasize biblical principles may have dire consequences. Historical accounts such as that of Max Jukes reveal a stark truth: lack of spiritual leadership leads to generational decay, with his descendants suffering numerous negative outcomes. Conversely, Jonathan Edwards exemplifies the positive impact of a godly legacy, showcasing how diligent spiritual training can yield influences that uplift society.

Ultimately, Proverbs 22:6 echoes this truth: “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not turn from it.” The family must deliberately cultivate obedience to God's commands, as character formation directly influences individual actions and contributes to the overall betterment of society.

### Godly Heritage is Built Over Time

Understanding that character is shaped by obedience, we must also recognize that a godly heritage is created through dedicated and sustained efforts over time. The simple act of spending time with family can create profound impacts, as illustrated by a poignant story about a young boy eagerly seeking his father's attention and time. The cost of the father’s absence appears minimal in monetary terms but represents a much more significant emotional and spiritual deficit. The boy's desire to "buy" an hour of his father's time emphasizes the urgency and necessity of connection within the family structure.

Greg Vaughn's initiative, “Letters from Dad,” illustrates how something as simple as writing letters can foster relationship-building. He emphasizes intentionality—a commitment to devote time to family members and cultivate a lasting legacy. As a father dedicates time to foster connections, he nurtures not just memories but instills eternal values in his children.

A godly heritage is not constructed overnight; it requires continuous effort and dedication. Families are pillars of faith within society. The spiritual values passed from one generation to the next shape communal perspectives and influence future decisions. As time progresses, the legacy of faith becomes woven into the very fabric of family culture, creating a sense of belonging and purpose.

### Standing in the Gap for Future Generations

While we courageously build character and develop a godly heritage, it’s essential that we also stand in the gap for generations to come. Within Joshua 4:10-11, we see the priests faithfully holding the Ark of the Covenant as the uproar of the Jordan subsides, creating a path for Israel to cross. Their collective obedience is paramount, representing a bridge to God’s promises and act of intercession. Much like Jesus, who stood in the gap for humanity, taking on our sin and reconciling us with the Father, we too are exhorted to advocate for the upcoming generations.

In a world where many children lack positive role models, there is an urgent need to intercede for them—be it through prayer, mentorship or simply being present. We must model godly characteristics, offering the younger ones a tangible example of what it means to live righteously. Children and adolescents look to adults for guidance, and how we treat them plays a significant role in their development. 

As segments of our society increasingly stray from biblical values, it becomes crucial for believers to stand resolutely in the gap. The responsibility to foster a loving, nurturing, and godly atmosphere rests alongside each of us. Through acts of love and service, we can contrast the negative narratives that pervade our culture, reminding the younger generation of the power and goodness of God.

## Conclusion: Leaving a Positive Legacy

The journey of making this world a better place revolves around our commitment to leaving a positive legacy. By forming character through obedience within our families, building godly heritage over time, and standing in the gap for future generations, we equip ourselves to embrace the responsibility of instilling faith, hope, and love in the lives of those around us.

In the book, “How God Made This World a Better Place,” by Dr. David Wright we find a wonderful publication of this very subject. Pick up a copy today. Within its pages, you will find a wonderful set of stories that illustrate the principles of this article. I drew my inspiration for this article from it. When I was serving at Indiana Wesleyan University as Director of Alumni we reprinted this book and handed out thousands of copies. 

Though external societal pressures might suggest otherwise, we bear the light of Christ, and with that comes the opportunity to reflect His character in an imperfect world. The scriptures remind us of our duty as stewards of faith, evoking a sense of urgency in our pursuit of nurturing the next generation. 

As we work diligently to leave this world better than we found it, let us lean into God's promises, empowering ourselves and others to carry forward His legacy. With every stone we lift, every moment spent, and every prayer offered, we contribute to a powerful movement that transforms lives and communities. In doing so, like the Israelites, we build lasting memorials of faith that will stand as beacons of hope for generations to come.

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.