Fight Fear Fatigue!

You have been there many times before. Fear is a natural reaction to uncertainty or shock. Fear can overwhelm anyone. If it doesn’t you may not be human. 

The disciples during Jesus’ day dealt with fear on several occasions that we know of as we read scripture. One occasion is when they were in a boat fishing and a nightly storm caught them unaware and unprepared. They were frantic and fearful they would die. Yet, in total contrast, Jesus was sleeping through the worst part of the storm. He was asleep!

The disciples finally were able to awaken Jesus only to see Him do a miracle before them. He calmed the wind and waves by showing that He commanded nature. He calmed the seas! (Reported in Matthew 8:23-27; Mark 4;35-41; Luke 8:22-25.) 

Today, we are overwhelmed to the point of dealing with fear fatigue! We see many who are so fearful that they are growing tired of being so afraid! Many are fear fatigued!

Today, I am calling for us to fight against fear lest we too grow tired! Fighting fear fatigue means putting up a defense against doubt that leads to fear that can also lead us to giving up or being so very tired of being afraid! We need to find faith, through Christ who gives us strength to overcome fear. We need to find faith that strengthens our resolve. 

I have often hear the fear is an unfounded and false evidence appearing to be real. Our world is sourced by public opinion that produces false evidence resulting in the emotional response that categorically produces fear! Public opinions are like navels, we all have one! But, there is good news we can turn to that can help us fight fear fatigue.

The only hope we have is the truth of the Bible. God’s promises and precepts can calm the waters of any storm we experience. They are like discovering gold, we must read His Word and pray, looking for His Word that fights fear fatigue!

Perhaps this Thanksgiving we can count our blessings and realize just how much God has done for us. We too just may be able to do what Jesus did during the storm; take a nap.  

Reaching For The Pain Relief Medicine!

After working hard raking and compiling leaves all afternoon and into the night, I headed home feeling a great deal weariness and muscle ache. As I entered my home, my complaint was very obvious. “Cindi,“ I cried, “do we have any  pain relief medicine?“ She responded, “Didn’t you take any Ibuprofen before you started all that work?” It was in the form of an indictment which I needed to hear. Time after time, I know better than to wait for my muscles ache before taking something.

Isn’t that ever so familiar for any of us? It seems as if we wait until after the pain to look for the remedy. Prayer is often treated in the same way. We wait for troubles and problems before we go to the Lord in prayer. It’s as if we have a last-minute ditch effort to find a solution when the answer has been there all along. The apostle Paul tells us to pray without ceasing. It’s in times of trouble that to go to the source of our relief and the answer to our problems.

In Psalm 20:1, 5 we read that in times of trouble, may the Lord answer our cry. It is a reminder that we should take our concerns to the Lord in all circumstances. I love what Tony Dungy says on this very point:

“It’s hard to remember when we are in the middle of tough situations, but while we are in the midst of them And wondering how in the world they will ever end or how will we get out of them, we are doing nothing proactive to change the current environment. More often than not, we tend to worry.”

It’s like reaching for the pain relief after we are already in pain rather than going to God in prayer, seeking His Will and His wisdom in all circumstances. Tony Dungy tells us, “...throughout Scripture God makes it abundantly clear to us that we are to pray….” 

If you are like me, we like  to get as many miles out of our gas tank as we can. Daily 

I travel many miles. There has been more than one occasion where I have nearly been empty before finding a gas station, nearly escaping as disasters outcome, being stuck along the road. Why do we wait until our strength is almost gone or our gas tank is nearly empty before we refuel?

We live in difficult and confusing times. Worry is often our response to conflict and fear. Worry is often a response to uncertainty and times of distress. 

I wonder what it would be like to live a life devoted to prayer and even before life‘s circumstance in trouble, we are already in prayer.

I know for me, I need a constant reminder to go to the Lord. Why is it that trouble always seems to be one promise rather than my daily desire to devote myself to prayer? 

I travel across the state of Indiana each and every day and I love to read church signs. Recently I read this message; “Worry is the dark room where negatives can develop.”

Dungy is right when he shares, “When you see the storm clouds gathering, commence praying!”

Division of a Nation & Urgency of Prayer!

I travel hundreds of miles across the state of Indiana and I am always amazed by the incredible experience of prayer with so many pastors of all backgrounds. I attend on average about 17 minister groups a month and enjoy the wonderful fellowship of each of these groups that I attend. 

Something is definitely happening that is a defining experience in our culture today. We are all experiencing various degrees of stress as we see more issues of division, especially during an Presidential election year.

Division is tearing our nation apart as extremes are being played out through media channels of all kinds. We are seeing plenary of political division and it seems to be even more extreme. There is so much strife on every corner. The American landscape is looking very grim.

No matter the extraordinary times that we live, I believe that there has never been a greeter opportunity to witness of our faith in Jesus then right now. Just look around, nearly everyone agrees that these are extraordinary times. Fear and bitterness, rage and anger are only a few of the raw emotions that we see today. Ask anyone and you will see that it is very apparent that our culture is in conflict. Nevertheless, we have a message of hope and peace that is in sharp contrast to what we see lived out in our world today.

I’ve attend many prayer groups especially this election day and I’m hearing common themes of those who are praying. Whether it’s sin scriptures that they recite our prayers that they pray, a theme of urgency is on their lips. It seems as though the church is drawing closer to God in prayer and then ever before. At least in my lifetime, I have grown increasingly impressed with the response of the Christian church in times of great peril and unrest.

Could it be that division that we are seeing is causing the church to be united in prayer? Could it be that God is bringing about revival in the midst of great conflict? Could it be that not only during an election cycle but throughout our culture we are seen a seismic shift in the fervor an interest of the church to pray?

I am encouraged by the church! I am excited to see that the church is not complacent but demonstrating great faith as it comes together, whether by a remnant or in mass to see a great awakening. We are taught that we should be humble and during uncertain times we certainly can be fearful. But we are also taught to proclaim boldly because of the incredible hope that we have through Jesus Christ. (2 Cor. 3:12)

My point today? In the midst of division, I think that God is calling His church to fervent and urgent prayer! Perhaps this is a sign of revival? 

There is Therefore....

So often we repeat ideas and phrases without proper context. Too often we take ideas out of context. Just a passing glance at the things often quoted become talking point often out of context. Too often we repeat things that can be categorized as gossip, reserved for tabloids. When we miss the context of a statement or idea, we run dangerously close to falsehood and lies.

Jesus understood this, even as He was in the wilderness being tempted, He challenged the context of what Satan told Him. Just as Satan quoted scripture, Jesus understood the context and meaning of the sacred Word. The half-truth by Satan were not in proper context. Jesus often answered Satan’s attacks with the Truth of His Word! 

Often we read the Bible and come across the word, therefore. I was always told that when we read this word we have to understand the context of what preceded the passage.  This word, therefore is listed over 175 times throughout the Bible, often reinforcing sound doctrine and precepts. The Word of God is packed with promises and precepts! If we don’t know or understand the context of God’s goodness, we cannot know the back story. We can too easily miss the reason for the rest of what He says.

Don’t know if you’ve ever done a search in your Bible for the word therefore but I highly recommend it because it is ripe with truth in context. The inspired word of God is thorough and complete, especially when we read the whole of the Truth. Even my own faith is subject to the therefore’s of scripture. I continue to grow in that faith but not of myself but especially because of God’s Word lived out in my life.

Scripture is not intended to be a weapon of which we criticize others but a tool but carefully crafts my own heart and will. Remember the old adage, “when you point a finger there are other fingers pointing back at you?“ Too often the problem is that we take scripture out of context in order to criticize someone else while ignoring the send it in our own lives.  In a published editorial on the question, what is wrong with the world, C.K. Chesterton responded to the editors, “Dear Editors, I am!” When we remove God, the context that matters has lost its meaning. 

My friend, John who is a Wycliffe Translator Associates shared that trust he is necessary in all relationships. In a recent devotional he said, “When we don’t trust, we don’t share our heart.“ trust is built on a context of relationship in love of which God desires both.

This is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it. II John 1:6 NKJV

I wonder what it would be like to live my Christian faith in proper context to the therefore statements of scripture. 

Diversity of Friendship.

When I was in High School I had many friends from all different backgrounds including diverse ethnic backgrounds. Like everyone, we want good grades. One way I knew I could get an easy A was joining the all-male choir. It was monolithic in only one way, we were all males but we were not all the same in our race. I was the exception. 

I was the ‘token’ white member. Out of 15-20 members, I stood out! It was easy to know which one I was. My nicknamed was ‘the blond bomb’. My 80’s - style hair was long and disheveled. I did not have rhythm nor could I relate to the lifestyles of my fellow choir boys. I wanted to know them and eventually became friends with them.

When I pastored in the western suburbs of Chicago years later, I often reflected on my choir boy days while living in a community of 53 languages and many ethnically diverse people. I found my thoughts similarly curious as I compared my experiences on the topic of diversity. 

Today, I want to share just a couple of thoughts related to diversity of friendship. If we are going to make our connections more diverse, I needed to listen more and commit to diversity as an objective and in relational ways.

1. Diversity means that I need to listen more. 

I was not the only person in the room during my High School choir practice. One of the important factors of singing as a group is to listen to others so that you can harmonize and sing your part. No one ever expected our choir to all sing the melody. They expect us to have harmony by signing our separte parts. No one is to standout (unless it is a solo part). 

If I am to gain diverse friendships, I will need to listen better.  Not only was this true in the music score but also in gaining friendship. No one wants to be a friend of the loudmouth! Everyone avoids the narcissistic, selfish person. Why, because they are always taking and seldom listening. A relationship is a two-way street.

Think of how you make friends today. You join clubs or organizations to meet people. Even with the many social media channels, it is about joining groups and following people. Your goal is to find those that agree with you but if you are to gain diverse relationships you have to learn to listen effectively. You will find more channels if you want to listen better. Homogenous connections will only give you single-minded input. Listening in the age of Facebook changes how we get our information. Too many make comments as reactions to what others post and fewer are listening effectively. 

Listening habits shouldn’t change just because it is social media. Unfortunately, many of us simply scroll through our newsfeeds. Few stop and read. 

I believe that as we listen better, we can speak more effectively. Just talking is not good and healthy communication. Taking time to listen means investing in the lives of others. 

2. Having diverse friendship means being intentional. 

Diversity does not just happen. We need to make friends on purpose!  Go with the flow means gathering with those like yourself. It is easy to have friends. All you have to do is look around to connect with those like yourself. 

Connecting with others means doing things differently. It means connecting with those who don’t look like yourself! 

Dr. Mark DeYmaz once said on this subject, in criticism, "explosive homogeneous growth means staying home." Yet, he challenges the status quo in his message and what he had written that the Apostle Paul reached beyond himself. He continues, in a recent message I heard, that the gospel is not just for "white people." 

Similarly, we too must be intentional. Gaining diverse friendship means that we have to develop relationships on purpose? If we want to have diverse friendships, we have to go to places and join causes that are different than your own.

Too often we make division based on political positions alone while not talking about your values. Many will agree with your values and differ on how to solve your concerns. 

Racially diverse friendships means listening to discover people that are not like you! It doesn’t mean that you have to be in conflict. All causes are not yours but there are causes that are value-centered that you can agree with. Political, social, ethnic, economic are just a few opportunities that we can do better at through listening. 

In order to gain diverse friendships, you will need to be intentional. You have to develop a purposeful objective if you are going to have diverse friendships. 

Cries of Injustice!

Pick up any newspaper or watch any news program and there are cries of injustice in the streets. Pictures and videos are prolific with calls for justice and cries of injustice in cities all across America. It seems to be in escapable because it’s in our social media feeds of unwanted ads and commentaries about how unjust our society is. Whether social unrest or political talking points through columns that never cease to rest, we are inundated with the constant message, “No Justice, No Peace.” Before you turn this article off and swipe to the next, you may be surprised to read that this is not just another in-your-face political bully pulpit commentary.

The message I have today is actually filled with hope. It is a message that has eternal value that can change lives and promote incredible goodwill. Today’s article is a message that it’s not only positive but it is timeless and it promotes neighborly love. My title is not an attempt to deceive or mislead you into another “fake news article. It is not a bait and switch trick. If you know me you will also know that I find authority, not of my own, but in the authority of the Word of God, The Bible. My faith is grounded in God’s Word where I find hope and love in original form! I not only believe and story the Bible but I am also developing a relationship with the author of the Bible, God.

Today, I am reflecting and drawing parallel from the narrative of injustice that we read and see in the media today. The world is very hostile and injustice is crying out in our streets. Aside from the political aspects to these issues, I am humbled by the incredible need that there is on issues of injustice while at the same time challenged by the opportunities to offer hope and care for the least and the lost of society. 

I have encouraging words to share related to this and other hot-button issues. I know that the answer is not found entirely in political ways but can be found in Christ. I believe that we can be an advocate for those that have no voice (as referenced in Proverbs 31:8-9). I believe that the ground is level at the foot of the cross. I also know that protesting peacefully is not all together bad. I know that rioting and ranting loudly is not the answer! 

Yet, in spite of all of the social ills of our communities there is hope! I know that it is because of sin that we have injustice. The world is not fair. If you are breathing, you will see and likely be impacted personally by injustice. The inequities of life are not always solved through man-made remedies. We should promote justice but we need to also understand that there are solutions that exceed our human efforts. 

The Bible talks about injustice and the role that the follower of Jesus. It is to promote peace, love, and hope to those in need. We are called to love our neighbor. The golden rule originates from the Bible!

I find that God, through Jesus Christ, made the greatest sacrifice to bring eternal reparations to brokenness. In fact, the most unjust verse I can find is in Romans 5:8 that reads; “But God demonstrated His love for us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

This is freeing for me and many others who have discovered personally the tremendous blessing of having my sin forgiven and I am made right in the Lord. It tells me that while I was in sin and doing wrong, God paid the price for my sin. 

It seems like a terrible injustice that an innocent man (Christ) would love me, though I am unlovable and sinful. It is unfair for Him to give His life up for my sin! That is the injustice beyond compare! 

If I am found in His grace and forgiven we are brought into faith through Christ, I should be grateful for His love endures forever! I don’t deserve it but in Christ I am transformed beyond believe and able to love my neighbor because of His love for me. 

The next time we read or see injustice, indeed we should respond; we cannot be silent. Yet, coming to the issue with an understanding that the problem is sin. Racial injustice or discrimination is not what the Bible (through Christ) promotes. However, we must understand that the problem is sin. The heart is wicked apart from the grace of God through Christ! 

How do we resolve this problem? How to seek reconciliation? Where does eternal live originate?

It is only through God’s Grace (not religious affiliation) that changed everything! We must be people who are humble and caring. We must be people who care for the least and lost of our world; they are the real victims in the political quagmire!

Look up and see that the only hope we have for injustice is the grace of Jesus Christ. This grace produces a love for the human race! My friend once posted on Facebook (see image). She wrote that “we need to put more effort into winning the human race instead of the political race.”

Grace levels the playing field. Love triumph over injustice. Knowing verses in the Bible is one thing but knowing the author (God) is all together different! It is the Word of God that provides wisdom on how to understand the Will of God that comes through a personal relationship with the author of the greatest love letter (Bible). 

Concerned about injustice? We should be! Yet, beyond this is the incredible truth that at the foot of the cross, the ground is level. Grace is freely given to all through the message of salvation that gives hope to all. Indeed, this side of heaven we will need to advocate for love that is eternal and truth That never returns void. 

The ground is level at the food of the Cross! 

Assemble The Church!

I was seated with other pastors from across Northern Indiana. Those that gathered have a passion for Christ that is impressive. I felt humbled to be in attendance. I believe prayer changes things! 

Led by Pastor Gordon Henke, the gathering has not met since before the COVID19 lockdown. Pastor Gordon told the group, “Many things have changed! God has not changed.” 

This open assembly is a ministry of prayer in hopes to see revival happen. The passion of those that gathered is to see God’s Kingdom come. Showing a music video set the time of the meeting. Buck and Dottie Rambo’s Song from the 80 is still relevant today, “His Kingdom”. Lyrics include, “When His Kingdom comes what a difference...”

Those who gathered were challenged to let the light of Christ shine. This “light is coming to this place,” says Pastor Gordon. He reminded the group that God is pleased with and sees us gatherers to pray. Pastors gather from several denominations, the assembly of pastors from northern Indiana speak of repentance and humility! Prayers and statements like, “We need you, Oh God!” can be heard. 

Pastor Gordon shared that when he felt the need to pray that God impresses in him to assemble the Church. He confessed that he may not be the perfect man to call the church to prayer but he confessed that he must be obedient. 

Praying for the Nation, the Church, and church leadership was central. Pastor Gordon quotes a saying when he read his notes, “...better to live on my knees than die on my feet.” 

Prays for reconciliation, end of violence, repentance, have been heard. Passages of the Bible were read by several including Pastor Mike (Host from Crossroads, Plymouth) who read Philippians 4:4-7. He stated to let your requests be made known to God.

Fervent prayers were openly stated. Freely people cried out to God on behalf of our Nation. Scriptures were shared from Ephesians 6:12 and 2 Corinthians 10:4; and passages from John 14.

Like prior meetings from September, 2019 this gathering asked that people be free to pray openly. A call for revival and repentance was echoed by many. “The prayers of the righteous are effective,” stated one who prayed. “Receive our repentance,” was heard by another. 

A call for National repentance was shared in the reading of Micah 1. The nation is needing a cleansing and a call for repentance for the wrong that we see. “Sin has beset a nation,” says one. Others read from Habakkuk echoing a similar message of our need for repentance. 

Many focused on the National Prayer Assembly in Washington, D.C. that is happening this upcoming weekend from when this group gathered. A call for brokenness was shared! A call to ReviveINDIANA and those from that organization who are attending the National Prayer event. 

The gathering was smaller than past events but the enthusiasm was similar. There was a desire to repent and be restored. Those that gathered are united by a live for The Word of God and prayer. Psalm 81:12-13was read as a reminder to “call each other out if we see sin in the life of our brothers and sisters,” as one pastor said.

While a theme and prayer requests is shared, the tone of the meeting takes in its own meaning. Pastor Gordon said at the outset of the meeting that, “Maybe it is time to put on sack cloths and ashes.” 

The focussed prayer time met for two hours to pour out prayer and read scripture as people were impressed to share. Name tags were handed out but only to add your name and county pastors and guests were coming from. “We don’t need to know what Church we represent,” said Gordon. “We are from the “big C Church,” he shared.

Isaiah 55:11 — It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.

The Resume!

If you have lived and struggled it is likely that you have graduated from the school of hard knocks. It’s life experience the teaches you a few lessons that shaped who you are and likely sharpen your skills along the way. For me, I think I may have been a graduate student (Masters level) and likely never to receive my diploma because I feel as if every each day I had another lesson in a perpetual series of classes. Unfortunately, I didn’t always do well on the exam.

The good news is, there’s a lot that I can put on my resume. While it might not be a certified transcript from an accredited institution, nevertheless it has taught me certain skills that shape who I am. Life’s challenges are indeed the hallmark for achievement. When applying for our first job we may have been turned down because experience was needed. Eventually we start hearing that we are over experienced because of our age. Yet, somehow in the middle we find a career and a profession or vocation based on our skills, education, and mostly experiences.

I have been criticized for working too hard. In one of my ministries I averaged over 80 hours weekly and still volunteered my time as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). I did chaplaincy work in another ministry where I would serve after 10 pm through early morning; getting just a few hours of sleep I would report to the office the next morning by 8:00 AM. Of course I needed to spend more time at home!  

Those ideals where drilled into me by my father who believed in hard work. His motto could have been, “Do all you can!” I am reminded of a quote I read, “A recent scientific study showed that out of 2,293,618,397 people, 94% are too lazy to actually read that number.” (I hope you are willing to read further!)

Wisdom prevails when it comes to experience. Nothing can beat personal experience. The lessons we’ve learned help us interpret life and make good choices. 

Theodore Roosevelt was a terrific historian and tremendous leader at the turn of the 20th century. His resume was built through rugged hard work and through tough individualism. It was through his experience of leading the Roughriders and furthering his career as a strong and independently-minded person that created the brand that we know him as now. He’s often known for advocating for individual achievement and hard work ethics that earned him tremendous stature as a strong man. Winning battles and achieving through hard work became symbols of his brand. His resume was based on his large achievements and perseverance and mostly experience.

As I comb through the Bible it’s easy to come upon another individual who reminds me of a similar personality, both before and after his conversion. The apostle Paul is that rugged individual that seems to also have a tremendous resume of experiences. 2 Corinthians 11:23 - 28 is a summary of his resume.

“Are they servants of Christ? I know I sound like a madman, but I have served him far more! I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm.

**Then, besides all this, I have the daily burden of my concern for all the churches.**” -- 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 (Astrid added)

There are very few people who have such an impressive resume. While there are many in history, I know of none personally. But, I do know is that this as a person of high achievement and, in the midst of struggle, has persevered. I believe it certainly rest on the understanding that the apostle Paul had a Calling from the Lord. Even a tremendous testimony of his conversion.

Too often I find people who are willing to give up and just the moment that they could have achieved. Too often we hear of those that have backtracked because it was simply too hard to step forward. Too often we see individuals who are given a pass and excuses are made when they had every reason to move ahead.

I look back on how many times my plans were thwarted and if had I just simply had hung on just a little bit longer could’ve made the different. Even toward the end of Paul’s life we find in the book of Philippians that Paul drew his strength from the Lord. I’m impressed that while he was in prison one of the most impressive statements is that he concludes that letter by giving greetings and especially calling out those of the household of Caesar. These were the ones that have come to faith likely because of the influence of Paul during his house arrest and imprisonment.  Even though he had every reason to give up yet, he continued to build his resume for the work of the Lord. He spoke truth and saw converts even among the high-ranking officials of Caesars Palace.

Could I or any of us conclude our lives with such a resume? Could any one of us write down a list of those whose lives have been changed because of our impact on their lives? We never really know when our final day is to come, yet, we should be about our fathers business each and every day by sharing our faith. Our message is filled with the hope we have through Christ who gives us strength. 

Let us not retire, nor grow tired but build a resume of experiences for God’s glory!

The Living Hope!

Today I want to encourage us because of the living Word of God. Today’s blog entry is a reminder that there is a living hope! 

There are at least three things I need to  understand in order that we can see that God is active and living. He is active in His creation and by His Word, the Bible in our lives. 

God spoke!

In Genesis we see that God always has been. The Bible starts out with, “In the beginning God.” The fact that God has always been is important. It is in understanding thus that as He created life. it was through Him that gave order to life! 

Many debate how God did it. The Bible makes it clear that His creation began to be described by His Word when it reads, “...and God said”. The world became because God spoke the living Word.

We see further that the Word was living and life began as He spoke it into being. Psalms 33:6 reads; “The LORD merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word,and all the stars were born.”

The translation here uses the word, merely. It is an adverb that means, “only as specified and nothing more; simply”. I love that word because it seemed easy for God. It was simply by the spoken Word!

The Word already existed.

A word we often talk about and read is LOGOS. It is a Greek word which means order and logic. From nothing God created order. Before creation there was nothing but God created order in His creation. We know by reading John 1:1-3 that the Word already existed. It was not created but all of creation was by the spoke word; it already existed!  

John 1:1-3 is how we come to understand the origin of his Word as it reads, “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.”

Scripture reminds us that the Word is eternal. The Word of God not only has always existed but it was by what God spoke into being. The Scripture says that God’s Word never returns void. (Isaiah 55:11) It is a truth that reminds us that the word of God as eternal substance, not just for this world but also the next. We read about God’s kingdom and that Jesus came to reveal his kingdom on earth but it is by his word that it comes into being.

Isaiah 55:11 — It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.

A love for His Word. 

I think I enjoy preaching and teaching the Word most because it’s the opportunity to remind people of the eternal hope. We can have this hope through the living God and living Word.  It begins by my love for the Bible!

We have a living hope because of the eternal blessing that can only come from the Word of God. 1 Timothy 4:10 reads, “This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.”

It is hardest to live it out! (not just preach truth). Living out what is preached or taught is the toughest! Applying and being discipled in the Word of God is clearly challenging but, God also gives us strength to accomplish his will for our lives. Since His Word is eternal it also means that His principles and precepts are eternal. It becomes a way of life!

What is the life verse that keeps me on track? 

My life verse is from Philippians 1:6 that reads and reminds me daily, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”

When I discovered my life verse, it wasn’t magical but, the Lord impressed on me that this verse was specific to me. It became an anchor for me so that during troubled waters I can remain calm and it keeps me from drifting.

My challenge for us is to memorize passages from the Word that have deep meaning and deep application to our lives. What is your favorite one?

Measure of Church Health

I have pastored in churches for many years and I’ve often wondered how I could measure not only my church growth but also church health. There are many parameters that we use today from personality test to emotional intelligence and the like but is there a measurement for church health?

Experts will tell us that we can measure our churches impact on church growth. Often churches have become event oriented in an effort to draw people in but during the lock down of the corona virus this past spring and throughout the summer it has caused many churches to reevaluate their impact. Going online and attracting more individuals just left church with an uneasy feeling and many ask themselves if truly they are making a difference?

When I pastored I worked hard at getting people involved in the ministry. One of the the strategies came as a result something I was passionate about. I was interested in engaging others in the process and seeing them rise to the leadership level and be involved in ministry. As they made great strides it also raised the level of impact of the church. Even today, my ministry context in a para-church organization once again is looking for ways to involve others. I’d like to see peoples stepping up and taking on the ministry that they can lead. Perhaps that’s a way to measure church health is by getting people involved?

Today I want to offer yet another idea on church health. I believe that the level of compassion for the church has toward others, especially those outside the church, could be a great measurement tool. The church's “compassionate intelligence ratio” could be perhaps the most important quality in the life of the church. Jesus spoke of this over-and-over by how He demonstrated through His life but also what He said about love. Jesus had compassion and His example, I believe is a measurement instrument and has a direct impact on the way we measure our church health.

As church encourages their people to reach out and love others in the name of Jesus, it raises the tide for the church to a place that we can measure its impact. Having loving and compassionate ministries while at the same time engaging others in the process is a terrific measurement.

More basic than that is a simple question of how we treat those less fortunate than ourselves? Perhaps it’s a question for our church; about the way in which they treat the least in the lost of our community? I believe that the care for the orphans and widows as recorded in the book of James gives us a biblical reference point and a measurement tool.

Foster Care and the ministry to those serving this sector is one way of activating the compassion intelligent ratio. How often does the church talk about and engage the church in the ministry to the orphan of today (those in foster care and at-risk youth)? 

Perhaps God would have put community of the faithful to also be people of compassion? It is just as important to be compassionate and caring as to be concerned about the attendance as just numbers or the financials as ways to measure health. 

I defer to the heart of God who saw the multitudes as sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36) He said that our light should shine in darkness so that others can see the face of God! (2 Cor. 4:6)

I look to the scripture that tells me that God is interested in the care and welfare of the least and the lost of our communities as recorded in Proverbs 31:8-9 which reads; “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.“

I marvel at the message that is a repeated theme over-and-over to love and care for the orphan. James makes it clear that true religion is the care for the orphan as recorded in James 1:27 Which reads; “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.“

In summary we can understand the heart of God as recorded in Psalms 82:3-4 which reads; “Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.“

...Because God Sees and Acts!

The story of the most vulnerable is that of injustice filled with tragedy and pain, yet, mixed with fear and uncertainty! Just look around and you can’t help but realize how important the topic of injustice! Although, most of the time, the plight of homelessness, poverty, and abuse is hidden behind closed doors. These are hidden behind the doors of homes and hidden in neighborhoods that most will not pass through. 

At no fault of her own, 12-year old Andreana is just one story of many. Even as relevant as this week, when my son (who serves as a police officer) was dispatched to a home when a child needed to be sheltered due to neglect. The need of the vulnerable is not always at the forefront of our minds.

Andreana’s story is real. She had to pack a few of her treasures and clothing  unclear about how long she will be removed from the only home and family she knows. No matter the level of abuse or neglect, this is the only thing she knows. The lost-ness fear and is normal for her! No matter the abuse, 

We may read the headlines or police blotter notations in newspapers or on TV. 

But, God sees and acts! Why? What is it about our lowly estate that God should care?

We read Proverbs 31:8-9 ... it tells us of His posture of care and compassion. :: 

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.”

Why should we care? I believe it is a cause nearest to the heart of almighty God. It is for that very purpose .... Because God sees and acts! 

It is precisely for the very reason that God cares that we should also care to see and acts! 

The least and the lost needs our compassion because God sees and acts! 

What represents those most vulnerable? Children and the Widow. (In Biblical times and even today, these were the ones that held no rights or political power!)

Mark 9:37 — “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

God (through Christ) demonstrates His Love and care establishing universal understanding of those in need and care! 

We can see and take action in two ways:

1. Prayer — It is a way to see with God’s eyes.

Don’t pray little prayers. Pray expected-ly that only God can provide!

How many times do we pray prayers that we are able to answer? If we see a need, full that need.

Pray bigger prayers that only God can answer! 

2. Support — Acting for those servicing the needs! 

Sometimes the prayers that we pray can be answered by around Resources yet we give praise to God Almighty in for his glory!

We know that God causes us to act, and especially as we pray. He also causes others to act as we pray as well. At least on the hearts of those who market is called ones! 

We act because he acted in compassion toward us. Hope we have is because of Jesus. The joy we experience comes from him. Peace that passes all understanding is also a blessing that comes from him, among many others.

** Psalms 147:3 (NKJV ) reads:,”He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

Today is but a reminder of the incredible gift of God‘s love both at work because of we prayer and in response to prayer. We can believe that God hears and answers prayers because this is near to the heart of God ... because God sees & acts!

Performance Driven Yet Spiritually Empty

The Type-A personality is one that is driven by passion and enthusiasm. It is a person that is often fraught with complexities and can be toxic to the health of an organization. A person may be performance driven yet spiritually empty. Today I want to discuss my own inadequacies and vulnerabilities as I share this entry.

I derive my energy from being with people. I enjoy hearing their stories and encouraging them to pursue even greater risk and achievements. Perhaps, I am too forceful at times and its biggest impact is generally leaving me spiritually empty.

I am he confessed performance driven person. I am inclined to push rather than be led and to drive myself and others. For good or for bad, I can easily find something to do. I don’t let a lot of grass grow under my feet. You might find me wildly enthusiastic and personally driven poured a set of goals that are often internal and stress filled.

I have learned that it’s not the choices we make that ultimately matter but it’s the patterns that develop that present the problem. Habits form overtime including the habits of busyness and performance that can create an unhealthy identity.

While I am driven I find that I am often spiritually empty. In my spiritual life I have found that God does it need my new ideas in that way, going in alone attitude isn’t what God requires. In my younger years I thought that being a good Christian meant being extremely active and busy with a list of items, like checking off the list. I felt that success was dependent on me and it came from a time when I grew up what is the belief that I had to always get things right.

I felt it the more I did the more spiritual I was. I believed that God was pleased with my busyness. My life motto, even today believes that Christine is wasteful. Blaise Pascal becomes my motto: “I have discovered that all human evil comes from this, man’s being unable to sit in a room.” (1623-1662)

As I get older I am probably finding even more distraction in my little world. If my identity is based on what I do or even the outcomes of what I produce, I consider my life is insufficient. This set of beliefs often compete against a life filled with peace and Sabbath. I also come to learn that I place expectations on others and forget that I need to be gracious and respectful. Not everyone has to work the same way I do!

As I am now in recovery from a particular addiction of haste and busyness, I now realize that it was often vanity and superficial spirituality. In my recovery I have discovered that it’s OK to rest and relax.

To look more into this subject read the following article: Performance-based-Christianity.

Perhaps the challenge today is to find what brings you satisfaction and more important what defines your identity. Is your identity in Christ and his grace core upon your personal endeavors as if you have to prove yourself. Throughout my life I felt as if I needed to prove something and perhaps it was my childhood experiences that my outlook or perhaps even a personality orientation but ultimately it was in vanity.

I have learned that I do not have to go in alone and that God does not necessarily keep score of my busyness. Perhaps, like Martha, Jesus needs to remind me that it’s not about doing but it is more about being. In my life I have learned to become less concerned about proving something and more concerned about being in Christ.

In my life I have learned to become less concerned about proving something and more concerned about being in Christ.

Ask yourself a couple questions In a way to self assess. in a way to self assess.

1. Do you feel the need to always take charge and control?

2. Do you track your success based on your accomplishments?

3. Do you need to take credit for success and failure?

4. Are you obsessively worried about what people think of you?

If yes to most of these questions that I encourage you to admit and begin to be on the road of recovery along with me. It’s a life time journey but one that you can find improvements on, especially as we understand that our identity is in Christ alone and not by works. I know for me, I am likely to boast (or take pride ) but thanks be to God for His great love and patience with me.

Gnostic Code Contrary To Real Life!

You may be curious about the title and you may even wonder what I mean by Gnostic code contrary to real life. Today’s blog entry comes from an idea that struck me as I was thinking through how most people live by a code that is not always easy to decipher. I wonder, how many times do we apply Gnostic thinking to the every day life.

Gnosticism was something that was very prevalent in the New Testament but it was not exclusive to that time period. The apostle Paul spoke about this many times when he said that there is a group of people that he often referred to as leading a false religious beliefs called Gnosticism. It was a group of people who felt as if they had a secret yet special knowledge on all things spiritual. They elevated themselves above others as if they lived by a code that most had no way to decipher. It was a way of life that was held to a particular group and a particular way of life. A secret knowledge was the basis of their religious beliefs.

The gospel of Jesus Christ (as in mainline or evangelical churches) is open and free to everyone. The meaning of the gospel is simple to understand and it is based on the work of the Lord Jesus Christ and not of ourselves. It is a way of life that is public and not private, open and not closed, known and not secret. It is understood universally not exclusively.

So, what do I mean by living our lives with a secret knowledge? I often believe that culture plays into this in many ways. There are secret traditions and ways of living that are only known by a few and for insiders more than outsiders. It is perhaps a cult rather than a sectarian religion.

Driving through Amish country I’m reminded that there are over 300 different types of Amish groups. They live life by a series of special codes and ways of life. For the average person it is hard to recognize them but let me tell you a few customs that distinguish themselves from others.

In the Amish life there may be rules that pertain to the type of horse and buggy you drive. Some have open tops while others have canopies. Some have no canopies at all. The way in which they dress may also distinguish them from one another. Some have buttons that are sewn on the outside while others have buttons that are hidden behind fabric. The way in which they wear their hat or the type of hat that they have can also distinguish them from one another. Some have high top while others have thick brims and others have no brim at all.

There are special codes in secrets hidden within the religion that somehow communicate a level of spiritual living. I’m not criticizing the Amish for their way of life, I’d rather admire them, it illustrates my point as it relates to evangelicals and others. We have a way of life that is hidden behind codes with nothing by which to decode it with.

It’s no wonder that evangelism is so difficult. As people trace their religious stream and attempt to defined their faith, they are often confused by the many denominations and churches that we have today. Too often people define their spirituality by their denomination in which most of us know that it is not what gives you access to heaven but it is a way that shows you how and who to believe in to get there. Many “followers” are prideful and maintain a way of life that is like living a secret life, like membership to a club that is only for certain people. 

What if we could explain our way of life in simple terms?

What if we could reveal in simple terms what it is to have faith and become a follower of Christ?

These gospel is pretty plain and easy to understand. We recognize that it is not based upon works or really anything that we do. It is not a mythical array of ideas. It is based on a set of core beliefs through Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our salvation.

Do we make being a Christian complex? Do we allow for God’s grace in the ministry of the Holy Spirit to develop a disciple? Or, have we fixated on the externals like our dress and hair style? Do we make being a Christian complex? Do we allow for God’s grace in the ministry of the Holy Spirit to develop a disciple? Or, have we fixated on the externals like our dress and hair style to determine play Grace is about?

The gospel is basic  and included simple ingredients. It certainly includes love but it is love that transforms our lives in reveals our potential in Christ. 

I remember attending a youth / family camp as a child in which I was restricted in what I could wear and even who I associated with. When I would go to camp meeting there was always somebody there to button my top shirt button and I was not permitted to wear a polo shirt. (Button down shirts and long sleeves were preferred.) They were concerned about my appearance perhaps more than my heart but I know that they love me just the same. The way in which they communicated it to me was out of great concerned for how I lived. 

Going to camp, in a way it was sort of like a Gnostic way of living. I didn’t understand the code but I complied. I didn’t know that there was a heart relationship that I needed to have with God that could bring me understanding of my lifestyle and choices in life. It’s funny but today I prefer to wear a button down shirts.

You may chuckle because in our current generation we are seen quite the opposite. The external dress and tattoos often camouflage the heart. It’s easy to make assumptions isn’t it? You’ve been there too, right!

My hope is that today you can reflect upon what is the secret code by which you live but never telling others about the hope of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that more is caught then taught but this is not true in every case. People will see your lifestyle and only judge it as different but not understanding the source upon which you define your life. Unless we tell them of a hope we have in Christ, they may never understand that they too can belong. They need to know that grace and hope are universally available through Christ.

The Scripture teaches that it’s important to tell not just show! I believe it’s never been more important for people to hear your testimony! People may think you are peculiar but unless you say that is because of Jesus, they will never understand why you are different.

This Is Simple For The Lord!

Consider the complexities you and I face everyday. From programming our TV remote to using your mobile phone (like an iPhone or Android). How about online ordering and finding the right information we need for the issue we are trying to solve. COVID-19 as one example. 

Our world is full of complexity! Is not anything simple? I once asked a person for direction. It seemed like I could have followed my simple turn-by-turn directions. Yet, the description was more complex than the problem I was trying to solve. After listening to a long answer from one person that made me wish I had written everything down because after 5 turns I was loosing track of the her description. Then another person who was listening quietly interrupted. She simply said, “I know a simple way!” In just two turns she described to me a much more simple way. She simply started with a point of reference I was familiar with, “Do you know where Walmart is?” 

How many times do we add complexity to simple things? I know I have been a contributor to complex answers. I love it when I instructions are written for dummies like me. I especially like pictures and illustrations. Diagrams help me to see step-by-step directions. It take more discipline to narrow the subject to simple answers. It takes more time to draft and re-draft answers to get to the point. 

God is so infinite and complex. He is bigger than anything our minds can understand yet, He makes Himself known in simple ways. To Adam and Eve, he walked among them in the garden. To Abraham, he came in the form of sojourners and often angels. To Moses He was in the burning bush and gave Himself a name, I AM. The examples continue throughout the Bible. 

The prophet Elisha knew God through relationship. God’s  message was given in simple instructions. In 2 Kings 3:18 Elisha simplified the battle plan by saying that is a simple thing for the Lord. It didn’t have to be overwhelming, detailed, and highly complex. It took faith and a trust in God, yet, it was easy for God! 

The prophets and church fathers knew Him in profoundly simple ways! Reads Hebrews 12 to see what God said about each of our spiritual patriarchs. The gospel is summed up in just a few expressions of love and grace. 

A good leader is able to take complex issues and simplify the answer. It doesn’t mean that it is easy for us but in our simple faith in God, we can find simple answers.

Today my blog is a reminder to remember that while God is complex, His solutions can be understood in simple terms. I remember that my parents often would tell me that to simply trust them. At times they would even say, “Because I say so!” Many times I would simply trust them. It was enough that they would just said because I say so. It is when we put our hand in the hand of God that we can learn to walk with Him through life. 

I am reminded that the first step to understanding is relational. I love the now famed statement by Babby Mason, “When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart!” God will care for the many details IF we begin by trusting Him!