What Is Christian Success?

We have all heard this question asked over-and-over. From the ranks of celebrities and politicians, success is defined as high achievement and too often wealth. Indeed, while success is driven by the hungry (those who desire and drive for success) it is not just defined by the highest levels of earthly definitions. 

What is Christian success? This is perhaps a contradiction of terms; an oxymoron. (Defined by the opposite of intellectual ideals.) On one hand it is about what we achieve, accomplish, the ability to earn, and the ratings of many. Yet, I am convinced that it is not just the rankings of those at the top. It is also the depths of deepest meaning as well.

I love what Tony Dungy says about success. He has achieved great fame and success in his career as a great football player, winning both college bowl and the Super Bowl as player and coach! No one would ever think of Dungy as not achieving. He now speaks all over the country and the World as he lends his voice to the NFL as well as leading such great causes as All-Pro Dads. 

He says, “Let me suggest that is comes down to what kind of role model we are, especially to children.” (Uncommon Life Devotional Challenge)

Dungy was referring to the life of Dave Thomas as he thought about Christian success and write the quote above. As many know that the Thomas foundation has done much to promote Adoption and even Dave has lived it out through Adoption. It’s important to recognize that a life lived well it’s not about just what you believe but it goes beyond that.

Dungy writes, “Dave Thomas realize that it’s not enough to say the right things. We’ve got to live them out.”

Success in the eyes of the world may be about things and privilege and prestige but in the Christian life, success is more than those things. It is about living both publicly and privately our faith. It’s about making choices and also about behavior, as Dungy further states. It’s about being a role model. Dungy suggest that, “it comes down to what kind of role model we are, especially to children.”

We can read in scripture that the Lord defined faith through the description of being adopted. We read in Ephesians that we have been adopted and by God’s grace, through Jesus Christ and we are children of God.

Ephesians 1:5: God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

How Can I Pray For You?

 Just look around and you will see, we are living in deprecate times! People are discouraged, depressed, and dealing with destructive addictions of all kinds. I know that you see it too! It seems that we are seeing like never before in our lifetime, people are struggling. Lives are shipwrecked, broken on the shores of an angry ocean.

I believe that there has never been a better time to share our faith in Christ in my lifetime. People are looking for answers to complex issues. The world is angry, fearful, and confused like never before. When we are faithfully sharing g the Word of hope or our testimony of God’s faithful precepts and provisions, the world leans in because many want hope and Truth. 

One of the best ways I have found very effective to share my witness is through prayer! When we ask how can I pray for you, we will discover that people are open and willing to permit us to pray. I can’t tell all the ways I have found this to be true but let me tell you a couple of times I have experienced.

I love to do street evangelism. I am always amazed at how God leads and how the divine doorway opens. Time-after-time, I enjoy meeting strangers and asking them how I can pray for them. Few turn me down. 

Brandon is one example. I called to him across the parking lot. He was minding his own business as he walked across the way. When I called out to him, I simply asked one question. “Hey friend, how can I pray for you?” I imagine you can guess his response! “What?!” As I drew near, he almost took a few steps back. He didn’t expect this line of questioning. He quickly saw that I was sincere and with a smile, he saw that I was meaning to be friendly. We had a great time talking about the grace if God through Jesus. Sure, he told me what he was dealing with. He was surprised that I took a few bucks out of my wallet to meet his immediate need. Without judgement, I prayed for God’s grace and blessings to be upon him. 

I have traveled to hundreds of cities around the country. I have done this with hundreds of others, nearly every city I went through. Store merchants, clerks at grocery stores, waitresses, business men and women minding their own business, simply committing to work and while standing in line at fast food restaurants. (I prefer to go inside to place my order rather than drive-thru.) 

Another time I recall asking the question, how can I pray for you? I was simply going to grab a quick meal at a fast food place. Just outside the front door, being passed by others was a woman who looked to be homeless. I invited her to join me for a meal. I think she said yes only because she was hungry. Likely she thought I was strange. I was not someone that she would naturally share a meal with. 

As we placed our orders, I encouraged her to order anything she wanted. I said that she should buy somethings that she could have for a meal later or tomorrow. 

As we finished ordering g and paying, I asked her how Could I pray for her. Not thinking but, as I prayed for her I was holding up the line. I didn’t move out of the way, letting others order their meal. Interestingly, I quickly finished my prayer to loom up and see that everyone in line were also in a posture of prayer. No one rushed me. No one said mean things. In fact, I believe that they joined me in prayer because of their own need for prayer. Hope was present. The Kingdom of God had come to all of us during that time of prayer.

Like 10 is the biblical illustration that I often look to. Jesus sent out his disciples with very few instructions but as I study this passage, I am reminded that the goal was to make God’s Kingdom a reality for the least and the lost! 

Luke 10:9 — Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’

What am I saying? I believe that prayer is a Kingdom dominion act of faith! Try it? Don’t ask “Can I pray for you?” But ask, “How can I pray for you?” Don’t worry about being reject. Not everyone will respond but for those that do, God’s Kingdom will come near to those that participate! It is an act of your faith that draws others into God’s presence.

Only Half Alive :: Love Goes Beyond

I was reading recently a few passages of scripture that convinced me more than ever before. I am commanded to love! 

One notable scripture is in Luke 10.

It is in this passage that we find the story of the Good Samaritan who was the hero who loved and served a person who was beaten and robbed by bandits. This story illustrated who our neighbor is and what mercy means. Jesus taught that love goes beyond. 

Like the disciples — we too are being reminded — that as as we do unto the least of these, we do for Him! 

The disciples or amazed by Jesus is teaching most notably as a relates to his authority for justice and judgment! He makes it clear that in days of judgment he will separate the sheep from the goats.

When we look past our own indifference and complacency, we will see the incredible need around us each and every day. There is another world that is very active all around where we live, shop, eat, and other places we go… It’s a world filled with hopelessness and despair. But God lifts us from that perspective to see those in need! God’s kingdom is like that. 

I’m reminded of what was written about in the story of the Good Samaritan. 

Edwin Bechner gave commentary to this when he said that when the good Samaritan came to the man who was half dead along the road, he responded to the man’s need BUT he also recognized his own need...to help someone else. He says that the Samaritan responded because he realized that he could do something. 

Edwin wrote: “Though the man was half dead, the good Samaritan realize that he, himself, was only half alive!”

** It is in helping others that we come to live again! **

Kindness and Conviction Are Nearly Synonymous.

Thumbing through a series of memorization verses that I have recently been challenged to know, I came across a verse from Ephesians 4. The verse has brought me to a new understanding of the incredible work God wants to do in me and in all of our lives. 

It is always interesting to me that I could read the same passages over and over yet to find new meaning and application for my life in current times. You’ve been there too. As you studied a passage and even may have taught on it yet, down the road you read the same passage and see something that you never realized before. Thankful for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and a personal growth that comes in our Christian lives. 

I am thankful that the Holy Spirit continues to work on me and in me to make me his disciple each and every day.

Ephesians 4:23 reads; “Be kind to one another. Tenderhearted. Forgive others just as God, through Jesus Christ, has forgiven you.“

I find two words that are rather synonymous as I memorize this passage of scripture. Kindness and conviction are both found here! Sure, do you see kindness? Of course you do! Can you see conviction here too? Not so apparent but wait for it. It is a conviction of a profound grace set loose in our lives as we realize and stand-fast on God’s command to forgive one another. Conviction holds us to this Truth; we are convinced like we have never been before! 

It’s no mistake that we find a proper etiquette for how we should treat one another while also being commanded to do what Jesus had done on our behalf. When I look over this passage of scripture I am more and more convinced of its truth and how necessary it is for our lives today! 

Kindness is synonymous with conviction. Well the two words have definitions and characteristics that are unique, yet they possess similar qualities that are synonymous with grace. It may be that these terms don’t sit in a list in your thesaurus yet each of them do possess the characteristic of forgiveness. 

Grace is of incredible worth. There are times in our lives when we must forgive but it can only happen through the power of God at work in our lives. Grace is not a word that comes from a strictly human context. Grace must come from outside of ourselves and likely resides where it has originated, with God through Jesus Christ.

I can tell you that even in my life I have needed to forgive though it did not happen in my own strength. Some acts of grievous condition are too horrible to be nonchalant and I response. We don’t shrug the bitterness we feel. 

The scripture that I am memorizing will take a lot longer to get into my heart and soul then just simply reciting the words. Be kind. Gracious. Forgiving one another. All of which can only happen through the power of God. Only as we are convicted to live out grace do we begin to understand the depth of such a passage! 

I can only better understand grace as I understand what it took for this to become a part of our index for life, the codex that holds all things together. It can only become a part of our glossary of terms as we understand the sacrifice of the One who exemplified its meaning! I can more appropriately respond to being kind toward one another, gracious toward one another, and forgiving one another as I know God’s gift toward me.

Grace makes kindness and conviction similar words! Conviction is what holds our compass (direction) in place. Conviction is what grounds our faith. We are convinced (conviction has this at the root) that this is Truth! 

So when we are kind (tender-hearted) we do so because we are convinced of the grace God freely gives! When we are kind, it is not just a polite gesture but it comes from a deep conviction, knowing of the grace God gave us! 

See how these words (kindness and conviction) are synonymous? They both related to grace that only God can give! 

The application of grace is yours for the taking! The rewards of knowing and applying Truth are what will sustain your life and soul. Try making a list of all the action steps that you can began because of grace. It is is this grace that you find yourself being more kind and convinced of the Truth of forgiveness! 

Three Words That Bring Success To Any Job!

Ask yourself a simple question, what would it take for me to be successful? Whether we talking about personal success or professional success, it boils down to three simple words that I think can forever change your outlook about everything.

If you had to pair down from a list of 100 attributes that you could incorporate into your life into three simple words, what would they be? Whether you’re trying to be successful as a student or as a parent or as a professional leader, the simple words will give you perspective and potentially put you ahead of the pack.

Each of these are attributes that employees as well as colleagues look for in their leadership in teams.Whether you’re trying to pull together a diverse set of values or give rise to your influence, these simple words or what I want to talk about today. They will improve your life.

These three words are: hunger, humility, and harmony.

1. Hunger is the first word. I’m not talking about an appetite for food or your favorite dessert. I’m simply talking about your drive and desire to be both effective and efficient. It’s about what motivates you in nearly every area of your life. It’s asking yourself the question, what wakes me up in the morning? If you can define that and build your skills to match, you’re unstoppable and that is what employers and members of your team are looking for.

2. Humility is the second word. It’s not the opposite of the first but it is a competing companion that if you collaborate effectively, you can come out on top. What do I mean? Nobody likes a bullish or boastful person. It usually is what makes people pull away from the relationship when somebody is to ego centric. It’s the arrogance that turns you off. 

While you may not see it in yourself you can certainly spotted in others. But a person who goes through life with a degree of humility will always come out on top. The Bible says that God humbles the proud but gives grace to the humble. When somebody is confident in what they do yet remains soft-spoken and not needing to take the credit, people are usually drawn to them. They are people who complement the competition. They’re not concerned about the glory. 

Humility goes along way in drawing people together. You’ll be an ideal candidate if you can truly show that you are genuinely humble.

3. Harmony is the third word in perhaps on purpose it is in this order. When the first two words complement one another where there is “umf” (the energy it takes to drive forward) as well as grace (a sincerely gracious attitude) you will generally find harmony. 

Perhaps I’ve learned this late in life but I don’t always need to be first; to speak or to act. I often find that we are willing to have members of the team who are peaceable and kind. They are not the “do nothing“ people but they are willing to listen first. 

Harmony is not uniformity but it is like an orchestra, each one doing what they do best yet sitting in to the collective of an orchestra where the outcome is being directed by a maestro.

Reflect on these three words and begin to make note of how you fit within each context. 

Are you motivated enough? Do you express a level of humility that complements others? Are you willing to be a member of the team and that the main player?

Choices, in and of themselves may not be the problem. However, it is the patterns that come from choices that determine our fate.

Success: It Is NOT About You!

Perhaps the title of this article is a little deceiving. You might read this and wonder if I know what I am talking about.  I do believe that success is based on personal motivation and individual drive while making the right decisions. Successful people are hard-working and lead effectively through values and goals. 

Yet, I believe we live in a world that is extremely self-centered. Therefore I must conclude that success is not based on you or me. Success is not about you! I believe it is based on recognizing the narcissism that exist all around us.

Let me take time to explain. Psychologist have examined the the American way of life contributes to this issue as a disorder. Many seem to believe that their needs are primary! It is based on individuality and personal choice. Many believe that this has created a generation of very self-oriented people that we might call narcissism. This is a term that is perhaps best described as the need for self though it does take into consideration self-preservation and protection of one’s own property or belonging. 

The term narcissism is basically defined as: “excessive interest in or admiration of oneself and one's physical appearance.” For today’s article I believe that we could expand that definition without redefining its original intent. I think we can see it through the values and actions of individuals.

As long success is only defined as wealth and the gathering of “stuff,” it can result in self-centered, selfish, and “me-first” entitlements. My pushback on this notion Is that we need to understand how successful can be generous. This means that as we achieve, we also understand how to bring others along. 

The impact of narcissism on relationships has a tragic end. Read more.

I believe that the number one topic that most people are interested in is the topic of themselves. How true it is that as you are interacting that people long to talk about themselves and how what they are doing makes a difference. Seldom do you hear anyone stop and ask, how are you today?

Most successful networkers are those that take an interest in others. They have a sincere concern for what other people’s needs are above their own. Just look at the rise of social media which is the exploitation of self. People post about self interest and the majority of selfies are for the sake of getting their portrait on display for others to see, like, or share.

Perhaps the point of this blog entry is just a reminder that we need to be more aware that our success is for the betterment of others. The next time you are contemplating and wondering about your level of self-centeredness, count how often you use the word high or promote your individuality, with its rights and privileges. You may be surprised to realize how important you think you are, in your own eyes.

Back To School Again — Hope For Future Generations!

Schools are opening up again but with a cloud of uncertainty. COVID-19 along with government and healthcare regulations  have presented challenges and restrictions on how we educate our young. Our future hope is in the educational needs of of our children.

Today, I am amazed by all the challenges that have faced us in 2020. I think it’s safe to say that we all stand amazed. These are definitely unusual days and there is so many times that I wonder what all of this means. Yet, I am convinced that God is in control and that He is never surprised!

My joy and certainty is in Christ and the only hope we can be certain of! While thumbing through my Bible, I recently came across Romans 12:1-2 again. I’ve read this passage a thousand times. It always seems to confirm to me that God is wanting to do a new thing in me and through me but there is one constant that never changes; we are to renew our mind! It is our perspective (the way we see life) that make all the difference. The renewal of our minds is the profound difference.

As kids return to school, I must reflect on the understanding that we too, need to be students of God’s Word. I think about the many restrictions that our kids are having to face and how often the obstacles that even we face can distract us from the opportunity to renew our minds for God’s glory. 

Allow me to take a few moments to share with you a few of my personal musings as I meander through this blog.

How many times have you heard the saying, “If only I had the time?” How often have you heard the many excuses? We live in a time when there is so many restrictions on our free time. We seem to have more free time than ever before yet, we seem to find distractions easily. It is so easy to become distracted that we miss the opportunities that are right before us.

I challenge each one of us to go back to school, spiritually. Just like hope is found in future generations, so too we discipline our pursues in Christ. Our future depends on it. As we renew our mind, consider the impact it can have on those we lead; the young, those in need, & future generations.

One thing that I know is that elders (those older) demonstrate the commitment to duty and responsibility. Perhaps it’s because of the many struggles that our elders have seen or perhaps in their generation they have learned to not take anything for granted. Their experiences can teach us! 

As our children return to school but it’s also return to a spiritual school and a commitment to the word of God as Truth. God’s wisdom helps answer complex problems. God’s Word is the teacher and by His Spirit do we learn. 

Romans 12:1-2 reads, And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

What new lessons are you anticipating? What is one thing that you can learn from? What is one discipline you still need to master? Make your list of the lessons you need to study or take action steps to improve upon. 

Learn from experiences and teach them to yourself and pass them into your children and those younger than yourself. It is in your failing that someone can learn but much more in your successes that lessons are witnessed. Your disciplines become models for others to follow.

Don’t let anything keep you from growing and developing into all that God has for you! Future generations are watching and counting on you to grow in the grace and spiritual light that God provides! 

Ideas Matter, Outcomes Measure.

Today is not that unusual from any other day. Even before I crawl out of bed, I often have several ideas that seem terrific and caliber enough to sit-up and take note. Alongside my bed, on my nightstand, I quickly grab my pen and jot down notes of my ideas. If I don’t write them down they can quickly fade. Poof, they are forever lost! 

Ideas flow easy for me, and especially when I am attempting to solve a particular problem that has plagued my mind and troubled my way. Ideas matter, I tell myself often in an attempt to console my awakened thoughts because seldom do my ideas become extraordinary. I am keen on the path to make a difference in my own creative way. I believe that my ideas make a difference but in reality, only a few really stick.

Ideas, like phantoms and even like a fog in the early morning, which is surrounded by darkness; they appear but only for a few fleeting moments. People have gained a great reputation and have secured their future by patents that came from ideas. Many have crafted entire industries that have revolutionized our current conveniences but those are truly rare commodities. Ideas do matter but there is one thing that is even more vital.

Actions speak louder than words, is a phrase people often use which motivates us. It is when we take our ideas and put action to practical steps that separate them from the ordinary. Outcomes truly measure. It is in the steps that follow your ideas that make a difference. It changes the ordinary into an extraordinary substance of the abstract to the concrete. ideas are but only the first step.

Random thoughts are only part of the equation that unravels the befuddled mind; organizing and categorizing useful information. As ideas are put in order and actions that follow can progress really be made. While actions can be measured, it is ideas that have to finish its work to began the process.

So, the next time you have a brilliant idea, stop and further envision the steps it will take to achieve a measurable outcome. No big idea stands on its own! 

The next time your inspired thoughts create and espouse ideas, realize that your first action step is most vital. 

The next time you promote your idea you will also need to enlist a set of actions that breath life into your dreams.

Ask yourself, what can I do with this idea that can enhance the overall plan? 

Ask yourself, how can this idea be attached to a practice next step that is measurable?

The Lord will always inspire ideas that matter yet will He equip us with actions that measure outcomes. Could it be that God created us for action that should bring him glory?

Scripture provides inspired direction: 

• God’s idea was followed by action.

Genesis 1:27-28

So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.”

• We, like a fog are here but for a moment but what will last is what God does through us.

James 4:14-15

How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.”

• Actions measure success. 

Psalms 37:2-3

For like grass, they soon fade away.

Like spring flowers, they soon wither.

Trust in the LORD and do good.

Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.

God’s Love Letter

Ephesians 2:8 reads; For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God. (ESV)

I officiated a wedding one day as the pastor. The couple that I met made it very clear to me that they wanted me to share the gospel in simple and plain language during their wedding. The bride-to-be told me that many of her family members will be coming from overseas and that their religion was  not Christianity. With tears in her eyes and passionately explain to me how important it would be for the 150 guests of hers from India to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I told them that I would love to be able to do that and begin to prepare for that special day. I was more than happy to participate in such a wonderful opportunity. Instead of my preaching the normal message to the bride and groom, I prepared my thoughts for a simple love letter from God.

On the 9th hole of a very prestigious golf course we set up for the wedding. As the bride came down the aisle I could see that her smile conveyed a heart filled with love and hope for members of her family. All of the normal Christian tradition was emphasized and then I was given the opportunity to share the special love letter from God, my message to the bride’s family. I stepped aside from a couple begin to address my comments to the congregation assembled that day.

I could see that they were very receptive to the whole field message that I shared with them and I simply told them that God has written us a love letter that if red we transform their understanding of faith, hope, and love.

Following the wedding the bride’s aunt and uncle approached me asking more questions about my message. We exchanged words back-and-forth for over an hour during the reception as we compared Christianity to their Hindu religion. Ultimately I stated that bottom line, the difference between their religion and mine was that through Jesus, we are given a gift of eternal life and that through a simple prayer we can have eternal life in heaven. The brides uncle turned and said I want some of that before we bought our heads and they recited a simple prayer of confession.

As the celebration continued for the bride and her husband there was another celebration that was underway in heaven because of the several that prayed to receive Jesus that day.

Our hope is because of the wonderful love letter that God wrote to us, through his word. It is a message of sacrifice that gives us hope for eternal life. Religion it’s not just a set of beliefs but I trust that we can have With God through Jesus Christ. It is because of his shed blood on Calvary but we have received the greatest gift and that we should pass this gift on the others.

Take just a moment to reflect on the letter, God’s word that he has written to you. Celebrate his gracious gift of eternal life because you are really a recipient of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Rebuild Or Restart?

Times are different, aren’t they? It seems as though that just a few months ago we were living in a very different age. But here we are, months after COVID-19 has caused many of us to change our routines and comply to new standards.

This begs the question whether we should rebuild or restart?

Many who are leading churches and other organizations are having to restart only to have setbacks with new procedures in an attempt to make church safe. This is not the only industry that is impacted as many nonprofits and charitable causes including foster care has shifted dramatically.

Social distancingIs a new phrase in our vocabulary. Wearing mask is a new practice that we must comply with. The news cycles are not just spreading information about a virus but they are spreading fear and uncertainty.

I often read articles and newsfeeds that talk about organizations having to “restart” their current activities; many having to get very creative in their efforts.

Many could be paralyzed during this time because they’re not sure what the next step is. I believe that if you don’t know the next step look ahead for hope is in the horizon. It’s in the long range that we find a fresh vision. 

It’s time to start thinking long range on many of our efforts. Perhaps we need to be thinking about more than just simply resetting but perhaps we need to rebuild. This is a much different conversation because it’s not just about re-gathering or picking up where we left off.

The conversation is now about finding a long range answer. We must ask what does 2021 look like? Whatever the cause  and no matter the activity that we once enjoyed, we have to consider what starting over looks like. 

When we think about rebuilding we must begin with vision and create a structure that meets the objective in more meaningful ways. We have to consider the impact we could have on long range objectives.

Here are four questions we can start by asking:

1. What is your mission? Everything has a beginning including the reason why you exist to begin rebuilding by understanding your mission.
2. What are your values? State clearly the values that motivate you and help you accomplish your reason to exist statement.
3. What can you do right now that is unhindered by the current circumstances? It’s important to maintain in the midst of obstacles and difficulties so do what you can do now while also thinking ahead.
4. What is your vision and strategy when you think about rebuilding your objectives given the current hindering circumstances? It’s time to think fresh and do as you look at your long range goals and be creative.

Live outside the realm of fear and objections and think clearly, with a fresh vision for how you accomplish your reason you exist mission statement. Rebuild instead of restart. 

Rebuilding gives you a fresh outlook for your future endeavors. When you restart you go back to previous parameters that made sense for a very different time.

Rebuilding allows you the space to push aside obstacles in order to think clearly. When you restart your limit your potential because of pre-existing conditions.

Rebuilding means reconstructing your future hope for why you exist. when you restart you pick up from where you last left off with no consideration for the future.

Should you rebuild or restart? I recommend rebuilding!

Counterfeit Faith.

Romans 12:9 Reads; “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. (ESV)”

My two sons are now grown and even serving in the profession of law-enforcement. When they were in school they combined two projects from school assignments in which their collaborative creativity produced a counterfeit, duplicated dollar bill. They not only created it by using techniques from art class they had aged it, by getting it wet and drying it, and passed it on to me for inspection.

To my surprise, believing that it was real, recognize there humorous trick when they giggled as they told me that it was counterfeit currency. I was shocked! 

I took it from them and told them that this was wrong and even took the dollar bill to a friend of mine who retired from the Secret Service. Even more amazing was that he identified it quickly as a counterfeit without even looking at it but from how it felt in his hand.

Eventually my sons learned a valuable lesson as the retired Secret Service friend took the boys aside one Sunday morning after church and basically scared them enough to which they never tried that again.

My friend, the retired Secret Service agent said that he learned to identify counterfeit money by studying the characteristics of real currency. He told me that in all of his training they are taught to study what is real, not what is counterfeit.

In our lives we too must study what is true to avoid the counterfeit in our spiritual lives. A valuable lesson my boys learned we too can learn as we study the truth of God’s Word in order to have an authentic and genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

First John 1:5 reminds us that God is pure light, in him there is no darkness. For you and for me, it’s important to recognize that in Christ, we too are a reflection of the hope we have through God‘s love for us. As we live out a genuine faith through Jesus Christ, be reminded that in Christ there is no amount of artificial light that will ever replace the glory of the true light that is in Christ Jesus and through His Word, we can reflect His light.

For more on this subject, see my message that I shared on YouTube - Rev. Rick E. Carder.

In order to know the truth of God’s Word begin by memorizing scripture this week and in weeks to come. 

Giving Yourself Permission To....

I recently was in a seminar as a friend of mine shared about the importance of grieving loss. It was with a group of pastors when Mike shared that it’s okay to give yourself permission to grieve.

It struck me, in my travels, I come across many pastors in which I hear of their hardships and difficulties. Pastoring today is a very lonely occupation. I hear Pastors tell me that they don’t know who they can share their toughest heart-aches with. They wonder who they can trust to be vulnerable with.

When my friend shared that you need to give yourself permission to grieve it hit me. That it is a message I need to deliver to Pastors. I am in contact with them on a daily basis. Often pastors talk about the grief of others and they may even encourage people in their grief but perhaps they are hardest on themselves. Too often they do not give themselves permission to grieve disappointments or loss in their lives.

We read all throughout Scripture of the importance of going to the Lord in prayer as well as how important it is to have someone close with whom to share your honest and transparent hardships and heartaches. Psalms 34:18 reads; “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

Perhaps it’s the profession of the Clergy (which is a vocational Calling) and maybe even the fact that it is predominantly a male dominated profession (though I don’t believe this is limited to only men) but all of us must come to a place when we need to ask for help in a safe space; sharing about those most intimate concerns that weigh heavy upon clergy.

What is it today that weighs heaviest on you? Who do you have that you can trust to share your most difficult and heartbreaking concerns? Have you given yourself permission to grieve?

The following are a few verses you may want to consider as you think about this particular topic while at the same time giving yourself permission to grieve.

Ready For (The Right) Action.

Ready? Set? WAIT! Sound like something you have heard before? Does this sound typical? Most of our lives are lived in a “hurry up, wait” mode. We rush to get ahead only to be stopped or slowed by unexpected detours and road blocks.

I traveled over 50,000 miles last year on behalf of my ministry. I have sighed and zagged across Indiana to meet expectations and goals, appointments and gatherings. I know all-to-well the unexpected detours. I have driven around road blocks and encountered detours that have set my travel plans and schedule back. I usually know to buffer my travel itinerary in such cases that I may find my way closed ahead. 

Isn’t it frustrating? We often feel that any road construction a waste of time. You have been there too?

The Word of God brings clarity in your Calling and role. In Christ there is light that brings vision but darkness breeds confusion and fear! 

I am reminded of the many times I have prayed only to have delays or a change of plans sign redirecting MY route. I can write a book on all the times that I sought God in pray only to TELL HIM what I want. I have learned that I need to really seek His Will for my life, which begins by listening and learning. 

It is often so true that my ways are not His Ways. I am reminded that until I align my plans with God’s plans that I come up short. 

Waiting is a key strategy in knowing what God has in-store for our lives. Psalms 130:5-6 reminds us; “I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning.” (ESV)

To often, we waste the detours and delays in our lives. Too often we rush past what we need to know before we move forward. Too often, we drop out of life (parking along the road) because of the uncertainty of obstacles.

Taking the right action requires taking time to see the detours, road-blocks, and dead-ends as opportunities. Recently I was able to see the NEOWISE COMET (pictured on July 13, 2020). This is a reminder for me. In the midst of darkness, the clarity of seeing the Comet reminds me to look for clarity that can inspire you. For me, this is Jesus and my faith in Christ. Like a shining light, though rarely seen, provides a focus point! 

You can take time right now to make a list of the times you feel like obstacles are setting you back. As you make the list, list what your options and choices are. From this second list, how will you next choice bring clarity to your purpose for living.

Reaping a Harvest

Matthew 28:19 reads, Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

The story is told of a farmer who went out to plant his fields. He was approached by a young boy. Inquisitive, the boy asked the farmer about the seed that fell to the ground. He asked, “What will this become?“ The farmer smiled gently and said softly to the boy, “Within this one seed is a harvest that is plentiful for many. As this seed grows and as we tend to the weeds that will also grow we can feed not just one person but many.”

Similarly, our lives, reap a harvest that will not only produce another seed but a rich harvest as we tend to the weeds and  cultivation of the soil in our spiritual lives. We have heard it said that you reap what you sow. That is not only true in our own lives but in the lives of others.

The scripture compels us to go and tell others. It is in those efforts that we are planting seeds that will grow a harvest for God’s glory. It is in our investment and care for others that people come to faith through Jesus Christ.

Who is one person that you can prayerfully invest in, telling them about your faith in Christ? Take just a moment now to pray and then plan to cultivate, toil, plant, and reap a harvest for God’s Glory.

Finding Center In Far Left/Alt-Right Worldviews.

Where do we find balance? Whether is our personal matters, politics, social causes, and faith, we all find ourselves in a difference place; balance is a challenge for all of us. How do we decide what is right and what are universal values that bring us harmony today?

Today, the biggest challenge is finding truth and applying our choices to what is the right way to live and love. We live is a very diverse world, both secular and religious. It is a complex set of ideas that can leave anyone bewildered. Even the most educated and respectful people can wrestle to know how their ideas and responses to other ideas impact our neighbors and community. 

Today we live is a society of extremes. The more active we engage the issues the more we are expected to comply to standards that are often leading down an unreasonable set of values. Without naming names, I think that anyone of us can see how much conflict there is in our social norms. Unless we become extreme we may feel the shame of not conforming. A new type of social pressure is building and the tension is to a breaking point. 

You and I are being pressured to take a stand on detailed expectations. Reason and debate seems to be tossed out. While expected to listen more intently, we are pressured to decide and become an activist. 

How do we engage in the hot topics of the day? Who can we learn about topics through critical thinking and not be criticized for not being expected to conform or become an activist? How can we advocate for social issues while not being restricted or pushed to comply to legalistic activities?

Take a moment to reflect on these questions. Take time to reflect on hot topics before posting a public opinion as if our belief will summarize the topic and conclude the debate in 144 tweet-able expressions. Rather than take a defensive posture for things that are said to you or things that you may disagree with, stop and be silent to pray for God’s direction before responding. “Patience can persuade a prince and soft speech can break bones.” (Proverbs 25:15)

Today, my intent to ask everyone to hold their thoughts and reflect on your response through a filter of humility and critical thinking. Today, we need to be thoughtful. 

In the age of far left and alt-right, it is really hard to find balance and provide a centrist persuasion. Reason is seemingly thrown out in exchange for emotionalism. While we are told certain facts, seldom do we have enough depth in the debate to for a healthy opinion. Most of us, including me, are not experts on many subjects. We follow slogans and catchy phrases. We read headlines but know few people who are impacted in real-time. Even if we can point to personal experiences, we thrive on personal painful examples that often do not mirror the actual context of any example. 

So, today, I invite you to process differently. I encourage all of us to not become "arm chair quarterbacks." That is, forming public opinion because of what was captured in video. We, all-to-often can be tempted react through a social media "like", "Retweet", "share", or even "mimic" what we see without really using critical inquiry. 

For me, listening and loving are still the standard that make the most sense. As we understand how to listen, really listen and learn to really love, as Christ loved and instructed us to love our neighbor as ourselves. The best rule is to activate the "Golden Rule" as found in the book of Deuteronomy and the words of Jesus. 

Can I encourage all of us to ask questions and to also walk alongside others so that we may gain a depth of understanding? What might happen if we look for Truth through God’s Word beginning with an ethic of love as God loves us? 

Too often we allow fear to dictate our actions and our feelings. It’s so important to need through inquiry and not through an inquest. It starts by listening. Nelson Mandela has approved, time and time again how valuable his wisdom is, even in today’s society as we wrestle through conflict. He wants wrote, “May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.”

Perhaps finding balance is to gain understanding truth with grace. I believe that at the foot of the cross the ground is level. We all come to God through Jesus Christ equally given grace, hope, and charity (Love) of Grace. How can we offer any less to others we encounter? 

What scriptures are your favorites that offer you hope? How can our response to pain and loss that others feel? How can our response to social injustice be hope-filled? How do we engage in the needs of others that promotes prayer, grace, hope, and transforming love in Christ; as we represent Jesus incarnate? 

As we make every effort to live a Christ-centered life, we are commanded to love one another and to love our enemies. It does not mean that we compromise our position and most especially our values, but it does mean that we make every effort to be people of peace. If winning the argument is your goal, it’s best not to engage but if your goal is to demonstrate God’s love and grace, and give testimony of God’s grace in your life than it’s worth pursuing a healthy discussion. 

My friend once remind me on a social media post how important it is to win the human race, instead of the political race. 

A (Not-so-new) Kind of Social Politeness!

Take your shoes off at the door. Stand back a little and give me space. Wait until the person has spoken before sharing your opinion. Don't drink and drive. Always wash your hands. No elbows on the table during dinner. Wait until everyone has been served before eating. 

These and many other phrases are often understood as being socially polite. They are a part of the very culture of a society or social group. These, often unwritten rules are a part of the very fabric of a healthy community. As long as we honor principles of polite manners and social norms, we show the value of others.

Today, we live in a complex society. Western society, by in large, have shaped rules of engagement and social order in a common language that is passed on from one generation to the other. It is what we teach our children. It is what we learn in kindergarten. These are a sort of code language that expresses value and establishes trust. If we break simple polite manners we are usually corrected and reminded. 

Yet, today we are seeing order and "a way of life" challenged. We are seeing excessive force and those in authority violate our desired way of life. We are seeing peaceful protest to call attention of injustice turn into a display of an angry mob, even looting and destruction of property. We are seeing that reciprocity as meaningless and chaos become the new order. We are witnessing the emergence of new social politeness. 

Another example is how we are seeing more people wear mask as a result of the Corona Virus. Many are increasingly concerned and other could care less.  I speak to pastor all the time and know of their ministry hardships. Pastors are telling me that as they begin to come together and attend church in person that there are those that are the mask-wearers and those that are in the non-mask people. Some have even told me that the one group is fighting and threatening the other to wear or not wear a mask. People even threaten to never come back to church until everyone is wearing the mask and ironically, so too the non-mask people. 

It is so challenging today to know how to respond to such extreme views. You may be judged harshly no matter what you do.

I think that there is a (not-so-new) kind of social politeness that is emerging. I am seeing more-and-more a social shaming on those that do not comply to their form of order.  I am seeing more-and-more people getting angry because of what they see as right. Today, we are even seeing many flex a mussel for a demonstration of "their rights".  These issues will not be settled soon or easily. 

I want to offer another (not-so-new) idea about how to expand the conversation, calling for harmony (that does not mean uniformity). Like in a choir or orchestra, the many diverse instruments and voices can create a beautiful harmony. While occasionally dissonance (the clashing of sounds) can be part of the musical melody, it is the harmony that we expect and we are left feeling uneasy if we are left with clashing symbols. 

Jesus reinforces the Biblical understanding of reciprocity. We know that all of society needs this to effectively manage conflict. The secular view of this is to do to others as they do to you. A kind of believe that simply means, "an eye for an eye". A kind of do unto others as they do to you. 

However, Jesus also went deeper as we see more clearly in the New Testament. He was challenged to state which of the 10 Commandments was the greatest. He was often placed in awkward conversations. A form of dissonance. What he responded is a not-so-new idea when He responded that the greatest are the two that is to "Love the Lord your God and to love your neighbor as yourself". This is a not-so-new kind of social politeness.  It is what we call the golden rule. We read elsewhere in the New Testament that we should "do unto others as we would like done to us."  It is a step beyond a kind of social politeness. 

Today, we see how road-rage is likened to the first and basic kind of community. It is a reciprocating of what has been done to us. We call this self-justified vindication. In the Old Testament there were cities of refuge that were places that the accused can go to for a judgement of the crime and punishment. This has developed in Western societies as our court systems and the making of laws. The understanding of "innocent until proven guilty" has always stood the test of time. 

I remember first learning in a high school business ethics class that the symbol of the Lady of Justice stood as a beacon of these ideals. She stands with a scale of justice to represent fair and equality. She also is blindfolded so that her bias is blinded. Today we see challenges to injustice but we need to look to the highest ideal, The Golden Rule. 

In the age of instant justice, by way of social media and live video, we are all becoming self-justified vigilantes. We act self-righteous and act on pure emotion without due process and consideration of the rule of law. 

I caution our society to a not-so-new kind of social politeness. Yes, it take more time and thought. Indeed it means listening. Of course it means pushing for change in healthy and fair ways. Freedom is not self-righteous living, it is taking responsibility for the change that begins at home. In fact, in writing this article I understand that I too may have offer bias persuasion. Yet, I believe that revisiting the Golden Rule can and should help us resolve matters of conflict, if we truly love one another in community. Am I naive? 

Perhaps a bit of a pie in the sky with rose colored glasses but I am certain that as we want for good for ourselves and act in love toward our neighbor, we can get a little closer to the highest ideal of man - to the Glory of God. 

My challenge: Take the next 7-days and live out the not-so-new social politeness. If your wearing a mask helps another to feel more comfortable, why not put it on?  Perhaps, if slowing down to let another pass you on the road prevents road rage, why not slow down? If taking your agenda and inviting others to help contribute can strengthen the outcome, why not listen more intently?