Five Understandable Words for Today

"...Moses prayed for the people."  Numbers 21:7d

Human nature has long been in short supply of patience and perseverance. The nation of Israel after the great exodus is a classic case study of national impatience and impropriety. The story is recorded in both Exodus and Numbers (historical 'books' within The Bible, a collection of inspired writings which we use for direction, correction, inspiration, etc.). As Israel wandered in the desert, they exhibited their distrust for their national leader again and again, bringing upon themselves God's judgment for their lack of 'followship' - the reasonable expectation of God upon a country's citizens to follow Godly leadership. In fact, all but two of the original generation that left Egypt survived (though their children and grandchildren survived). (read Nu. 26:63-65)

Nearing the end of their wandering chapter, God told Moses that Aaron (his older brother and high priest) would soon breath his last and be joined with his ancestors. Moses was instructed to ascend Mount Hor with Aaron and his son, Eleazar. The entire nation watched as they made the climb up the side of the mountain. Once they reached the top, Moses removed the priestly garments from Aaron and put them on Eleazar, ensuring the passing of the priestly baton. It must have been a difficult climb, as it was in God's providence that Aaron died there on that mountain top, never entering into The Promised Land. The nation mourned for thirty days after Moses and Eleazar had descended back to the Israeli camp. (read Numbers 20:22-29)

After Aaron's death, God gave Israel a great victory over a Canaanite king who attacked them unprovoked. The victory came after the nation prayed to God, vowing to completely destroy the king's city (a practice they previously had not thoroughly followed). There are another five simple words that describe God's reaction to their prayers: "The Lord heard the Israelites." (21:3a) I hope that give you hope - to know God hears your prayers AND the prayers of a nation who cry out to God.

After witnessing this remarkable victory God had provided, the nation set out toward the Red Sea... and as the trip drew out longer, they once again began complaining and speaking against their national leader, Moses, as well as speaking against God. The account tells of poisonous snakes entering the camp where many were bitten and died. Once they realized their lives were at risk, they repented or confessed the error of their ways and asked Moses to pray for them - that God would remove the threat of the snakes. Then we have this sweet, simple five words describing Moses' actions: "...Moses prayed for the people." (21:7)

It is important for us to pray for our national leaders. It is just as important for our leaders to pray for the people they lead and serve in the tenure of their political appointments. God honored the prayers given by Moses again and again. Each time the nation rebelled, Moses interceded for them - otherwise, God may have wiped them off the face of the earth. I love reading the exodus story: the great victories, the nation complaining; the dire circumstance, the Lord providing; the rebellious nation, the acts of God. It all comes alive as you read it. Try reading it aloud. Look at the life of Moses: how he was sent to deliver the nation; how he interceded for the people; how he pointed them to God's Way. An excellent leader will not hold back in pursuing these efforts on behalf of the people they serve. An excellent leader who loves God and God's way will pray for the people, as he/she enjoys the assurance of God's children praying for her or him.

Pray for your community, state, and national leaders right now.  Thank God for them. Ask God to whisper into the minds of our leaders His precepts of truth and righteousness. Pray that God would provide wise counselors who embrace His Way to surround our leaders with righteous counsel and insight into the multitude of problems they seek to solve.

May His Kingdom come on earth as it is in Heaven.

steve (Jn. 3:30)

Five Understandable Words for Today

"...to set oppressed people free."  Isaiah 61:1

Are The Law and the Prophets still in effect today?

In His sermon on the mount, Jesus provided the greatest teaching on Jewish law, exposing both the heresy and heartlessness of the Pharisees (those who interpreted and taught the law). After describing the cost of discipleship in the beatitudes, Jesus began His discourse with the phrase, "You have heard it said..." (translation: 'you've been taught...'), and then follows it with His own commentary and clarification. In so doing, He not only was pronouncing His expertise on the Law, but also His authority over it. Of course, the apostle John's beautiful description of Jesus being the Word that became flesh reveals Jesus as the author and finisher of the written Word of God. (Jn. 1:1)

The Law and the Prophets were written with the explicit purpose of pointing God's chosen people and the world to Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of the law. When Philip found Nathaniel (English spelling) under the fig tree to tell him of Jesus, he described Jesus in this way: "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote..." (Jn. 1:45)  Jesus even described Himself by referring to those same inspired historical documents when He said, "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law and the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill." (Mt. 5:17) With just those two passages, the Believer can hang his/her spiritual hat on the declaration that The Law is still in effect and that Christ has fulfilled every requirement of it. Jesus has now provided the Believer with his/her responsibility today as it pertains to working out one's faith within the context of The Law. It is found in Matthew 22:40, and reads: "Jesus said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great(est) commandment. And the second (is) like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On (these) two commandments hang all The Law and the Prophets.'" (v.'s 37-40, NKJV)

Some scholars/theologians interpret Luke 16:16, stating Jesus explicitly said The Law and the Prophets "were until John (the Baptist)...” They maintain that Jesus directly stated The Law was no longer in effect, but that would not line-up with His statement found in Mt.5:17. The Law and the Prophets pointed to Christ, and then John the Baptist was Christ's forerunner who 'made a way' in his university of the desert. (Is. 43:19) God was beginning the transition of making all things new, a transition which is continuing until Christ returns as a victorious King to reign 1000 years. But then there is the conundrum presented by the writer of Hebrews 8:7-13: of the covenant (and The Law that came with it) becoming obsolete. Was it inspired? I have to believe it was. How are we to understand it? In my limited understanding, it is to be understood in the light of the eternal heaven, not the present earth. The old law, just as the present earth, is merely a foretaste of the eternal law, Christ's eternal Kingdom (Isaiah 9:6&7).

Of course, the above referenced passage lead us to another Biblical precept supporting the veracity of The Law: its eternal purpose. Yes, the Lawgiver established His word for eternity. Without The Law, there would be no need for a Savior. Through God’s loving gift of the Law, we are pointed to a higher walk (see last week’s blog); our sin is exposed; and the Believer is directed to the safety of right living. The Law renders every man, woman, and child as one in need of a Savior to redeem, a Lord to restore, and a Love to reconcile us to God.

(Colossians 2:14) In Jesus' first sermon, He quoted from Isaiah 61:1 and revealed His life's mission statement, ending with the phrase: "...to set oppressed people free." Freedom is only realized under the obligation of the law which requires an accounting of wrong doing, an accounting for which our Savior paid the price - His priceless life on a cruel cross. I thank God for His unbounded love and the power of the cross over sin and death!

So, in this short discourse, I hope my thoughts made sense to you. Other scriptures for support and clarification that you may want to consider are: Luke 24:44; Acts 24:14; Acts 28:23; Romans 3:21.

Five Understandable Words for Today

"Come up here to me…" Exodus 24:1

In one's daily discipline to seek the Lord, His will, and His way, there is a dynamic that occurs which is oftentimes disregarded in today's American culture of self reliance and self promotion. While it is true that heaven's King condescended to us (Philippians 2), it is also true that the follower of Christ apprehend His way as we draw near to Him. We cannot draw near to Him when we continueto be drawn to the world and the world's ways. We must seek the higher walk… the higher way. Drawing near to God elevates the Believer to a perspective that is only experienced from the mountain top of proximity to the King of Kings.

From the precipice of sanctification, the Believer sees the beauty of the valley of the shadow of death that awaits all: "How beautiful in the sight of God is the death of those He loves." There is no need to fear the challenges of the future once the future is seen as securely in the hands of a benevolent Commander Who will lead you from one mountain top of earth's joy to another, and finally to the joy of knowing the power of overcoming those lesser things which derail the life of faith. Love of the things of this world is enmity with God, for no one can serve two masters.

Being raised to walk in newness of life empowers the Believer. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead infuses the Christ follower with that abundant life ensuring victory over those things that compete for our affections and bring us down. I'd rather rejoice on the mountain top of personal victory than waller in the failure of sin, disappointment, guilt or anger. A crown awaits those who overcome. The voice of The One and Only is ready to speak the words, "Well done my good and faithful servant", to those who die to sin and self and live to Christ. For some, the climb up the mountain of spiritual disciplines requires the school of personal experience in seeking the path upward: the crevices of calamities to cross; the treacherous paths of the sliding rock of compromise; the punishment of the elements of regret and guilt. Once these hindrances of ascension have been navigated, the Believer's efforts are then focused on deliberating on the correct path to ascend; discovering the beauty of His holiness, and realizing the joy of His presence.

As my spirit seeks closeness with my Savior, the world's concerns are placed in His hands with complete confidence in His ability to work in and through all things for the good to those who love Him and are called according to His purposes. Drawing near to God reveals the hand of God reaching down to raise the climber to the safety of His secure grasp.

Do you hear Him calling?

Look for a hand up…

steve

Five Understandable Words for Today

"...one calling in the desert..." John 1:23

Having just finished reading Dr. David Jeremiah's book, "Agents of Babylon", it seems more evident than ever that Christians live in a wasteland of anger, resentment, disappointment, hurt, abuse, and hate. This desert we call the world is darkened by the lies of satan and his minions of darkness. Oftentimes, the fully devoted follower of Christ can feel abandoned in such a harsh socio-spiritual environment.

There are at least two biblical models to give us encouragement through the often hostile treatment one may receive. The first model is found in the prophet Jeremiah. He is known  as the "weeping prophet" who mourned his nation's secular condition and the idolatry that occurred as a consequence of God's people abandoning their first love. (The apostle John speaks of this to the Ephesian church in Revelation 2:1-7. For a revealing list of 40 evidences that the Believer may have left his/her first love, go to:  https://www.reviveourhearts.com/articles/40-evidences-left-your-first-love/)

Jeremiah's message of repentance was not well received by the people of his day, just as in our day. (A good brief article on Jeremiah's life and ministry can be found at:  http://truthfortheworld.org/bcc/courses/bcc_ots_l13.html)  Christian  be encouraged that others have gone before you experiencing similar treatment.

John the Baptist also provides the Christian an example to follow. He consistently challenged the norms of his day, calling people to repentance and reconciliation to God. Though he did experience a great following by those seeking forgiveness and a second chance, his life was cut short by the political establishment that sought to marginalize his impact upon their small window of the world. John's life is a testimony of the price one may pay for following God's way.

Of course, Jesus warned Believers to count the cost, framing His words in a way to show that full devotion for Christ may be perceived as hatred or disowning one's own father and mother, sisters and brothers, or even their own life (see Luke 14:26; though the truth is God desires His children to love and honor one's parents, siblings, and to love others as oneself). In any case, Jesus clearly described the reception we should expect: "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad,because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew 5:10-12) (Other verses related to the cost of discipleship are: Matthew 10:37; John 12:25; )

Suffering from spiritual combat fatigue? Do you shy away from being light in darkness because of the "shell syndrome" of attacks from others? Persevere my friend, others suffered similarly and worse. Stay the course; speak the truth in love; and stay rooted in His Word. Drink from the refreshing well of His love as you are "...one calling in the desert...".

John 3:30

steve

Five Understandable Words for Today

"...I am sending an angel..."  Exodus 23:20 (NLT)

After expressing The Ten Commandments to Moses, the Lord provided clarification on the proper use of altars for worship, the fair treatment of slaves, deciding personal injury issues, property issues, social responsibility, as well as specifying the three annual festivals the nation was to recognize and celebrate. (Read Exodus 21-23:19)  Ending the dialogue with Israel's leader, the Lord used these five simple words in describing His continued presence for the wandering nation. This 'angel' God sent was actually the pre-incarnate Christ.

Paul refers to the truth of Christ's presence among the Israelites in I Corinthians 10:9. As the nation detoured around Edom by the Red Sea, the Israelites complained against the Lord Who sent venomous snakes to enter the camp and many died. They understood their sin and repented, asking Moses to intercede for them before the Lord. (Read Numbers 21:4-8) Of course, Paul also asserts the eternally pre-existant Christ in Colossians 1:16, as the Creator of all there is.

Numbers 12:5-8 reveals a statement by the pre-incarnate Christ  to Aaron and his sister Miriam (in the presence of Moses) after they both had complained about the living conditions. Miriam was struck with a form of leprosy for such insubordination and had to stay outside the camp for seven days. 

The angel of God (Jesus - the messenger of the trinity) was to lead, protect, and provide the power to get Israel to the promised land safely. There were exceptions though to the promise of God's presence. The nation's leaders and citizens were to pay close attention to Him, obey His instructions, and not rebel against Him in any way. (verses 20& 21) If they were careful to obey Him and submit to His instructions, God promised to be an enemy to their enemies and oppose any who opposed them. (verse 22) There were other blessings promised to the chosen seed of Abraham for their obedience. God promised them food and water, immunity from disease and infertility, as well as long life! The writer of Psalm 33 echoes these benefits when he wrote: "Blessed is the nation whose God is The Lord." (verse 12)

O that America would experience a great awakening of God's presence and turn to His way for living that we might know the same benefits of His presence in our lives!

In His presence is fullness of joy!

steve

Five Understandable Words for Today

 “Whose spirit speaks through you?”  Job 26:4 (NLT)

As discussed last week, Job was an upright man who faced the tragedy of losing his children in a natural disaster. That same day, his entire business property was stolen and his employees killed by Sabean raiders. Meanwhile,   on that day his only means of food was wiped out by marauders and “fire from heaven”.  (See Job 1:13-19) He lost everything.

Today’s five simple words are found in Job’s reply to Bildad, a friend who had come to console him through the terrible time of loss. In an effort to remedy Job’s plight, Bildad and two other friends who had arrived together sought to comfort Job and end his misery by suggesting he repent:  that his troubles may very well be a result of some act or pattern of evil or sin in Job’s life. Job would have none of it. He knew he had lived an upright life and was quick to dismiss his friend’s sincere – though erroneous – accusations. Job’s friends, in effect, were sincerely wrong.

The question Job posed rings through time to reach our hearts today. So, what spirit can speak through us? Perhaps, a brief biblical search will surprise us to the influences we may unwittingly allow through our mouths: (I don't claim to be exhaustive in my treatment of the subject)

1.       The spirit of an accuser: Revelation 12:10 exposes satan as the accuser of the brethren, an effort to divide and conquer the church - the Bride of Christ, whom Jesus commissioned to carry His message of love and reconciliation to the world. Jesus described the results of satan’s tactics in Matthew 24:10 when followers of Christ fall under the spirit of the accuser, betraying friendships and responding in hateful words and actions. I have personally experienced such hurtful acts in a church where I served as pastor. It is the complete antithesis of Jesus’ description of the church’s reputation before the world in John 13:35: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (NIV) (also see Revelation 2:4)

2.       The spirit of false prophesy: Revelation 2:14-15 reveals the corruption of a church led by one or more who enable the church’s ‘flock’ into patterns of licentiousness and idolatry. These ‘believers’ cleverly disguise their behavior while seeking out the weak members of the flock who would fall to their advances. They use worldly wisdom to justify their rationale for worldly enticements.

3.       The spirit of Jezebel: Revelation 17:6 exposes those who seek to gain control through any means necessary. Once in control, the effects on the church are destructive and divisive. It is most evidenced in efforts made to ‘defrock’ a pastor’s leadership in the church and the division it creates. People who allow this spirit to speak through them are aggressive, intimidating, and use clever insinuation to spread their poison. Like Jezebel in the Old Testament, those who allow this spirit to speak through their mouths seem to always target the pastor and seek to destroy the biblical connection of one called to ‘effectively handle the Word of Truth’. (also see Revelation 2:20-21)

4.       The ‘spiritual zombie’ spirit: Revelation 3:1 discloses a dynamic often ignored or dismissed through denial of its possibility. The surest evidences of this spirit in the church is the absence of spiritual fruits and gifts in the lives of the flock, as well as the plethora of excuses made by followers of Christ for not sharing their faith or even for caring for their neighbor.

5.       The luke-warm spirit (see Revelation 3:15-16) speaks to the church by tempering the zeal for God’s way to new converts, and by creating delays within the church’s governance for ministering to the poor and needy. These are those who speak of their church being free from debt while ignoring the cries of those in desperation.

Any one of us is susceptible to falling to these spirits, especially during a period of extended absence from the Word of God. It is when one sets life on cruise control and resists the spiritual disciplines of Bible study and prayer that one’s life gets derailed to wreck on the banks of self reliance. The fully devoted follower of Christ is intentional in seeking God’s face daily through Bible study, prayer, and worship. In so doing, we can be more fully aware that His Spirit can be the voice coming from our mouths. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

So, whose spirit speaks through you?

Peace,

Steve

Jn. 3:30

Five Understandable Words for Today

"... he is in your hands..."  Job 2:6

Imagine in the course of a few hours losing your business, all your assets, and having all your children killed in a freakish natural disaster. Such a tragedy is recorded in the Bible, detailing the record of a man named Job (pronounced J-oh-b). Within Job's story are accounts of another unseen story describing events in the spiritual realm: satan presents himself before God (Job 1:6); God refers to Job's life, asking if satan has observed the integrity of Job. Satan's retort sought to manipulate God by stating the obvious blessings God had given Job. When challenged by satan to remove those blessings, God allowed satan power over all Job's belongings - that's when all hell broke loose on Job...  literally. Yet, Job did not sin through the horrible tragedies described above. Instead Job chose to worship God.

Today's simple phrase is found within the events of satan's second appearance before God, after he had brought so much havoc into the life of Job. This time, God gave satan power to rock Job's physical life without killing him. There are a lot worse things then death. You'd be surprised what one can live through. Job lived through misery of the worst kind, having boils breaking out all over his body, bringing such pain that he preferred death to the continuing agony being inflicted upon him. I wonder how he would have reacted had he known that it all began with God applauding Job's integrity, devotion, and piety.

What about you? Is your life a trophy for God to display? Are you blessed greatly? Education, check. Home, check. Family, check. Church fellowship, check. Job, check. Friends, check. Do you ever ask yourself, "OK, when is it all going to come caving in all around me? When does the trial start for me?" Or do you live in such a way that you will never have to worry about God singling you out for the Righteous One of the Year Award? Perhaps, like so many, you would prefer not to call any attention to yourself as being one set apart for God's purposes. You just don't want the attention, or the harassment, or the prejudice that comes from being a totally devoted follower of Christ.

Jesus described another time when satan would be given permission to wreak havoc on those God loves. It's found in Luke's description of the Lord's Supper, just prior to Jesus' betrayal on the Mount of Olives. Jesus had described to them the sequence of events to come: the betrayal, the execution, and the resurrection. Then the disciples began to argue over who would betray the Lord, followed by - of all things - a dispute on who is the greatest among them to rule with Jesus in the new Kingdom. Imagine! The Lord had shared his heart with them, and here they are pointing fingers at each other in condemnation as a 'turncoat', then arguing over who is the greatest! These were the same men that turned the world upside down after Pentecost! And we are just like they were... I know I am. Anyway, Jesus tells Simon (Peter), that an unseen event had taken place: satan had presented himself before God and had been given permission by God to let hell break out on the disciples - that he could sift them like wheat. (Luke 22:31) Doesn't sound very pleasant. However, Jesus reassured Simon, stating He had prayed for Simon, so that his faith would not fail, and that he would 'turn back' to strengthen his brothers (the disciples).

Jesus had already predicted Peter would deny Him three times... Peter would crumble... Peter would fail miserably... now Jesus was predicting Peter would return, stronger, renewed, revived to strengthen his brothers for the birth of the church. And Peter did just that, preaching a sermon that saw thousands who turned from darkness to light, following Christ.

Have you heard the latest from heaven? Has God brought your name to be heard in the halls of heaven's throne as satan makes his appearance before the Lord of Lords? Don't worry...  He has prayed for you... so strengthen each other with these words.

He must increase, I must decrease.

Jn. 3:30

steve

Understandable Words for the New Year

"...the Lord was with him..."  Genesis 39:3

As my wife and I enjoyed time with our daughters over the Christmas holidays, we also were able to hear about their victories, failures, disappointments, hopes, etc.  At one point, I remember sharing with each daughter how their mother and I pray for them each day: to surround them with His presence, for in His presence is fullness of joy; to provide for their needs; to protect them by His hand. I told each of my daughters a statement my dear friend, Mark Cook, often shares with me: "The safest place to be is in the hands of God." 

Though Joseph was betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery, betrayed once again by the wife of his owner, thrown into an Egyptian prison, forgotten by a fellow inmate he had encouraged when he interpreted a dream, he still exercised complete faith in God to write the story of his life - confident that God would redeem his situation. What incredible, persevering faith!

This simple precept of knowing and believing God walks with us through life is critically important to maintaining a balanced perspective on one's personal journey. The bible reinforces this precept time and again:

• "He that dwells in the secret place of the most high, shall abide under the shadow of the almighty." (Ps. 91:1) The shadow is God's favor. The shadow is God's protection. The shadow is God's presence in the midst of life's turmoil.
• Numbers 6:24-26 reflects a blessing for those who walk with God to experience: His protection, His favor, His peace, His grace (we experience saving grace, living grace, and one day His dying grace).
• In the great commission, Jesus promised His presence to the disciples - even in the farthest reaches of the earth, or even to the end of earth itself as we know it. With His presence came His power for sharing the good news. (Mt. 28:18-20)
• Paul encouraged the believers in Rome with the words: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him , who have been called according to His purpose." (Ro. 8:28) He was emphasizing the power of God to work through even difficult circumstances.
• Paul went on to say, that if God is, in fact, for us, then who can be against us? In other words, we will experience God's presence and provision for each and every circumstance we face.

There are so many more I could use, but I won't belabor the point. God loves His children, His people, His creation, His own... and He desires each of us to be overcomers - to not react in a situation, but to be proactive by prioritizing our time with Him in study of His Word and in prayer.  However, please allow me to direct you to an excellent insight into this simple phrase by David Murray of Ligonier Ministries: http://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/lord-was-him/. Mr. Murray provides seven insights into understanding how God was with His anointed. I enjoyed his perspective on the subject and hope you will invest the time to read it - it's well worth it!

In today's world, it's not easy...  we are so easily distracted with television, tweets, teasers, and temptation of every kind. We must first come apart from the world so the world doesn't tear us apart. 

May you know God's presence in your life this year, and with His presence may you experience full joy, wisdom, discernment, and peace.

He must increase, I must decrease.

Jn. 3:30

steve

FIVE UNDERSTANDABLE WORDS for CHRISTMAS!!

"I bring you good news..."  Luke 2:10

We are inundated every day with bad news locally, politically, financially, socially, etc. People have become hardened to the constant bombardment of the negativity of this world. Despotism, random killings, plagues, natural disasters, brutality of every kind, corruption, etc., have numbed us to the awful effects of such events. Most people long for just a little good news from somewhere. It was no different in Jesus' day. Their world was dominated by Roman rule, scandalous military regimes, prejudice, sickness, and all the maladies we face today.

Then... into history came an angelic visit to a small insignificant group of shepherds outside one of the bedroom communities to Jerusalem. Shepherds, some of the lowest 'class' of people in their time, given a serendipitous angelic visit. And this was no ordinary angelic visit either. It included an entire army of angels - countless messengers proclaiming the good news of Jesus' birth, offering praise to God through the chorus:

Glory to God in the highest

And on earth peace

Among men with whom He is pleased.

Luke 2:14

What a peculiar event: announcing what was heaven's headline news to a bunch of sheep herders. People of that day didn't care what shepherds thought; they had no political sway or social influence. So, why bring the news to these guys? Why them? Why not appear before the world's rulers, or the socially elite, or the 'VIP's' of their day?

Maybe, just maybe, God not only chose to visit the shepherds, but to preserve the occasion in His Word so that we might know that there is no one on earth He views as insignificant, unimportant, disposable, or inconsequential. Do you ever feel that way? Do you ever think your life has no impact, no real influence, no importance? You matter to God. You do! And though you may not have had a recent chorus of angels surrounding you with good news, God wants to delight you with the good news of His love, the sufficient power of His grace, and the eternal joy of His hope. Such bestowments should incite our hearts to worship Him. can you worship Him with the same enthusiasm that the angelic host modeled with "glory to God in the highest"? If heaven is moved to worship with such passion, shouldn't we as God's earthly creation mirror the same?

There may be another reason why the shepherds were honored with the angelic visit. Have you ever noticed that God's heroes were shepherds. Able, Abraham, Lot, Isaac, David, and Amos were all tenders of sheep. There is a special place in God's heart for the shepherd. Even the description of the Messiah from the prophet Isaiah used the imagery of a shepherd:

He tends His flock like a shepherd:

He gathers the lambs in His arms

and carries them close to His heart;

He gently leads those that have young.

Isaiah 40:11

As you celebrate Christmas with family and friends, thank God with me that He chose to preserve this good news for us today.

May you experience the blessing of Christmas,

steve

FIVE UNDERSTANDABLE WORDS for ADVENT

"...a Savior has been born."  Luke 2:11

The significance of the title given to Jesus by the angel at the time of His birth is essential to understanding the purpose of His life and death. 'Savior' can also be translated as 'deliverer' or 'rescuer'. Like a lifeguard who delivers those from the dangers of rip currents and possible drowning, so Jesus is the Lifeguard Who descended from heaven's throne to earth (see Philippians 2).

The lifeguard sits on an elevated stand to keep watch for those who may have unknowingly been caught in the rip currents along the coast. People caught in these treacherous undercurrents don't realize the increasing danger they are in until it's too late. An alert lifeguard recognizes the warning signs of those in distress and takes action to save a life from drowning, often at great risk to his or her own life. Those who venture into the ocean of life without the watch-care of the ever vigilant Lifeguard are often caught in the undercurrents of greed, anger, remorse, guilt, deception, and confusion. 

On January 13, 1082, an Air Florida Boeing 727 plunged into the Potomac River only two miles from the White House. The crash, caused by bad weather and pilot error resulted in the loss of seventy-eight people on board. However, there were five survivors. Two people emerged as heroes in the aftermath of the tragedy: Arland Williams and Lenny Skutnik. Known as 'the sixth passenger', Williams, survived the crash, but passed a rescue helicoptor's life ring on to others rather than take one for himself. He ended up being the only passenger to die from drowning. The 1957 Citadel grad was a federal bank examiner from Mattoon, Illinois, and he passed-up his own rescue opportunity five times before going under the water. When one of the survivors was unable to hold on to the lifeline given by Williams, Skutnik, who had approached the area to witness the unfolding drama, jumped into the frigid water and swam to rescue her. Both Skutnik and Williams (along with another bystander, Roger Olian) received the Coast Guard Gold Lifesaving Medal. the bridge was later renamed the Arland D. Williams, Jr. Memorial Bridge.

We admire such heroic actions by others, should we not all the more cherish the actions of the One Who suffered the cross for us? Why did He endure the insults, the abuse, the lashings, the agony of the cross? He suffered and died in our place on Golgotha's hill. It was our sin that had separated us from God, and for which Christ died on the cross. The bible describes sin as rebellion against God and His way and, because God is perfect light, He does not share the space with darkness. In fact, light disperses darkness. Our rebellion against God's way is a dynamic that has been bred in the human race since Adam and Eve refused to follow God's way in the Garden of Eden. Think about it... when was the last time you had to teach a two year old child to say 'no'. 

Sin wants to reign in our bodies, but Jesus died that, while we were sinners, He might give us power to overcome sin's destructive power and live lives that shine His light. (see Romans 5:8)

Let your light shine today... let God use you in rescuing a soul drowning in life's turmoil. 

FIVE UNDERSTANDABLE WORDS for ADVENT

"...laid Him in a manger..."  Luke 2:7 (NIV)

From the time of His birth, the world told Jesus they had no room for Him. The innkeeper, though, did show a measure of hospitality to the young expecting couple by offering them lodging in the stable beneath the dwelling. He couldn't help it if his inn was fully occupied by those complying with Caesar's decree of a census, requiring citizens to return to their city of origin.

As it happened, Mary came to full term and delivered The Light of the World there in that dark barn, where she wrapped Him in cloths and made a bassinet from a feeding trough. It can't be too hard to imagine the odors and sounds that surrounded the newborn and His young parents. It did not matter, though, for in the course of prophecy and history, God's story had been written and was being played out by the very ones He had selected to bring to life the promise of redemption and reconciliation.

A stable may not seem like the perfect place for a newborn. However, that one assignment kept the new infant from the touches and breath of curious well-wishers, other children, and those who may be carrying a host of contagious illnesses.

Within the stable were the animals used to transport Joseph and Mary, as well as other animals that had made the trek to Bethlehem:

• Perhaps a young donkey that one day would carry the Savior through the streets of Jerusalem while crowds would proclaim, "Hosanna to the King". (John 12:13)
• Could there be a covey of doves in the eaves of this stable whose later generations may be represented by God's leading one to descend from the sky and light upon the head of Jesus? (Luke 3:22)
• Did the baby hear the bleat of a lamb that was to be prepared for either a feast or to be sacrificially presented for the sins of the family in the Jerusalem temple just five miles away? (John 1:29)

Sin separates us from the One Whose light can have no fellowship with darkness. Will you walk in His light? It's found in the One the apostle John described as life that became The Light to all. (John 1:4) Do you have room in your heart for the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world? Invite Him in your heart today.

FIVE UNDERSTANDABLE WORDS FOR CHRISTMAS

"Give Him the name Jesus..."  Matthew 1:21

So... what's in a name? Well, in biblical times and even in many cultures still today, one's name might reflect: the hope of a child's parents in a new born life; a prophetic identification of a child's life purpose; an early personality trait; or a physical trait celebrated by the child's parents.

The name of Jesus comes from Hebrew, Joshua (Yeshu'a), meaning deliverer or savior. To understand the term today it could be translated, 'rescuer'. The name was given to Joseph and Mary by the angel Gabriel (see Luke 1:26), who who recognized the name that existed from eternity past. Gabriel knew the power and majesty of this name that is above every name. The angelic visitor had seen that, when the name is mentioned in heaven, every knee bows and every tongue confesses Jesus as Lord.

There were many dynamics for God to overcome in accomplishing His planto bring His Son into the world. He selected Mary and Joseph,  placing His trust in them to follow-through as directed. Joseph should be commended for his resolve to continue his engagement to Mary; Mary should be commended for her resolve to accept her assignment from God; and they both should be applauded for naming the child, Jesus, just as the angel had directed.

He has selected you too, Believer, for some heavenly purpose. You may not have experienced an angelic visit, but God still desires to work His purposes out through your life. He is depending on you to follow His leading just as much as He depended on Joseph and Mary. That's why the apostle Paul wrote that Christ in you in "the hope of glory". (see Colossians 1:27)

Seek Him while He may be found. Trust in His way, His will, and His Word... and carry the name with you wherever you go, for He is as close as the mention of His name

Five Understandable Words for Thanksgiving

"Give thanks to the Lord..." is found many times in the Bible. Just to name a few:

I Chronicles 16:7&34; Psalm 105:1, 106:1, 107:1, 111:2, 118:1, 136:1;  Isaiah 12:4.

Sometimes the Hebrew word is translated praise, but the basic meaning is acknowledging God, from Whom all blessings flow. Everyday I find myself overflowing with thanksgiving for the multitude of blessings God has poured upon my life.

I'm thankful for my parents who brought me into this world; for their sacrifice to clothe, bathe, feed, nurture, teach, discipline, and love me through my formative years. I am thankful for their authenticity in revealing they were by no means perfect, as well as for their devotion to God, country, and family... and for pointing all their children to these values.

I'm thankful for my siblings. We grew up in the sixties and seventies (except for Mary, who grew up in the '70's and '80's). They were crazy, turbulent times in America's history (in some ways similar to today's America). I think the Foss family created enough havoc in our small hometown in South Carolina that I find myself thankful for my neighbors and community for tolerating all our shenanigans. I grew up with five sisters, and then met a sixth sister from my father's first marriage when I was in my junior year of high school. Each sister has a special place in my heart, and for whom I would sacrifice as best I know if there ever came to a time for such. I have one older brother who I've grown to admire as I've watched him grow into a loving husband and father. I thank God for the friends my brother and I shared in our youth, as well as for the trips and experiences we shared growing up together.

I am thankful for my extended family: the aunts and uncles, cousins, and in-laws who never treated me as an outlaw and loved me through so many transitions in life. On my mother's side of the family we have a rich tradition of gathering together as often as is possible to share a meal, time together, games, songs, etc. We actually enjoy each other's company and look forward to our reunions. At Christmas, as I was growing up, my Uncle John would lead us in singing the 12 Days of Christmas with his silly conducting and impersonations of each day's emphasis, he had us all in stitches with laughter. My maternal grandparents were the best. God broke the mold when He made them. They had a great sense of humor, were devout in their faith, and loved their children and grandchildren.  In fact, when we all get together, there is so much love, so much grace, and so much interest in each other's lives that we are all in a "protected love zone". No harm can come to any who enter here. We love each other.

I am thankful for my hometown. I can't say that it is the same as when I grew up, but it is still my hometown: with a main street that had two drug stores (one with a real soda fountain); there were five department stores - Belks, BC Moores, Ackerman's, Stroup's and The Men's Shop; three hardware stores - two on main street (Western Auto, managed by a Mr. Oliver, and Fort Mill Hardware, managed by Mr. Adkins; Mrs. Blair was his bookkeeper and assistant), and Mills Hardware on South White Street (J.B. Mills was the proprietor and a well known personality in town. I hope I'm remembering all these correctly); a barbershop (Mr. Howie would blow the hair off of the back of my neck as he trimmed); Kimbrell's furniture store; the Bank of Fort Mill (Mrs. Powell worked upstairs in the accounting section and would call me if my account was close to being overdrawn); a jewelry store run by a Mr. Crouch (a tall fellow with a calming influence); a pool hall; a movie cinema; and some smaller stores for appliances, miscellaneous merchandise (Chase's store); an insurance office (Bob Hill's business); the post office; and a gas station at the top of Main Street run by Mr. Osborn. We had a bowling alley that boasted pool tables, ping-pong tables, at least two lanes of bowling (you always had to bowl with a partner, as the pins had to be set up by hand - one would bowl while the other would set). The bowling alley was situated between the golf clubhouse on one side and the community swimming pool on the other. I am thankful for the church I grew-up in, First Baptist, Fort Mill - for Dr. Lattimore, Rev. Hollins, the summer youth minister, Hal Lane, and the members there who enriched my life as I grew up, especially a Mr. Arnold.

I am thankful for the schools I attended as I grew up, their administration, faculty, and staff: each contributed to who I am as a person. My first grade teacher, Mrs. Lytle, welcomed me as a newcomer to the community. Mrs. Bailey, who taught third grade, made learning so interesting. My fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Godfrey, gave me my first school paddling with a new "board of correction" given to her the Christmas before by some of the girls in the class. Mrs. Thomas gave me a love for reading in the fifth grade. Mrs. Williams motivated me to excel in math in the seventh grade. I cherished Mrs. Jones smiles in the eighth grade, and her zest for life and learning. I appreciated all my high-school teachers, but especially Mrs. McCallum, who taught me the skill of typing, which I have used throughout my life more than any other skill. In college, I was privileged to meet a Dr. Robert Edgerton, who - even though I was not a music major - assisted me in getting through the expense of college with a music scholarship. He was a big influence in my pursuing music for many years of my life. I am thankful to have been exposed to the teaching of Dr. T.W. Hunt and Dr. Roy Fish at Southwestern Seminary.

I am thankful for the wonderful people I have met in churches across this country. I am thankful for their prayers, love, and even financial support through the years. I am thankful for the pastors, with whom I was privileged to share in ministry and for those who partnered with me in various ministry efforts over the years.

I am thankful for my wife, Sandra, who has been by my side for over thirty-five years and has fought to keep our marriage, and who has exhibited such a wonderful ability to nurture and challenge our children. I am thankful for our two daughters, Nicole and Natalie, who have enriched our lives with so much joy, laughter, and love. I am thankful for the women they have become.

I am thankful for so many people and so many things... 

I am MOST THANKFUL for the mercy of God extended toward me through the love of Christ as shown on a cruel cross, and for the power of His resurrection that works within me to transform me to reflect more of Him in my life and less of me. I am thankful for how God is writing a story through my life, our lives, our communities, and our nation to make His name famous throughout the earth. I am thankful for a nation whose motto is: "In God we trust".

I am thankful for the hope of heaven as we live in such turbulent times.

Thankfully, 

steve

Five Understandable Words for Today

Five Understandable Words for Today:

“…full of grace and truth.”  John 1:14

In this description of Jesus, the Believer finds a hidden truth of restoration. Jesus… the Light of the World, piercing the darkness with His eternally inextinguishable light, shining through the darkest corridors of our hearts and exposing those things which were hidden but are now exposed to His healing touch… revealed in truth to be sacrificed to His Way for a life redeemed through a process of truth and grace.

Many deal with the destructive consequences of pornography, early exposure to sexual activity, and licentious behavior in the formative years of youth and young adulthood. It’s no wonder, because our culture is saturated with visual media seeking to entice the minds of unsuspecting youth to the pleasure God intended for a husband and wife. Both men and women struggle to understand the obsessive nature of this sin’s grasp, leading to the compulsive acting out of desires that emanate from the evil of one’s heart. The Bible tells us that the heart of man “is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9) 

Jesus, the Designer and Creator of our hearts is the only one that understands its self-destructive nature. He sees how we become entrapped by what starts as one’s own lusts, morphing into a monster that master’s the one who ‘played with fire’ (Proverbs 6:27). Men especially fall victim to lust and its devastating consequences to the heart, the family, the community, and the nation; though women can become just as much a slave to its domination of the mind.  

So, just how does the restoration happen? The journey begins with truth. One must first recognize in oneself the truth of his/her utter helplessness – entrapped by the power of this overwhelming drive and its eventual destruction of a life, a marriage, a profession, and the continuing ripple of destruction through the network of one’s contacts and community. The evidence? Recurring patterns of surrender to lust by acting out in a number of ways, all done in the veil of darkness and deception; seeking to ‘cover up’ one’s own behavior; lying about the behavior; and denying the behavior.  

Truth can also lead one to confess the issue in an effort to gain credence in establishing new patterns of behavior. Once confessed, efforts to establish new behavior patterns are essential. One’s connections with family, friends, mentors and spiritual allies should be reestablished with discernment in providing a support structure that is both loving, truthful, and understanding of the struggle ahead.

The healthy faith community recognizes the battle, for we fight what is unseen in realms of darkness. (Ephesians 6:12) The healthy faith community recognizes also the sham of an undisciplined life and will seek to deal with those in the struggle of deception by speaking the truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15) Such is the way of grace; such is the character of grace toward those caught in the vice grip of obsessive-compulsive sexual sin.

A healthy faith community will always start with a loving prompt toward establishing time in God’s Word. His Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. (Psalm 119:05) His Word will bring healing and begin the process of restoration to become one who will show others the way that leads to abundant life. (Psalm 51; John 10:10). A vital connection to a faith family will also provide the network of support in times of weakness, prayer support, and a cheering section for successful episodes of facing temptation.

The evangelical community often struggles to dialogue on this subject and reverts to archaic practices of condemnation, rejection, ostracism, and suspicion, instead of seeking to assist the one caught in sin with a strategy to rescue and restore the person, lest we, too, fall to the same potential failure. (Galatians 6:1) 

Grace and truth, introduced in the life of Jesus Christ… Truth and grace, impacting one life at a time for redemption and restoration. Will you be a part of that process of healing in someone’s life?

Thanking God for truth and grace… 

Steve Foss

Jn. 3:30

FIVE UNDERSTANDABLE WORDS FOR TODAY

“He brought him to Jesus”   John 1:42

One of the greatest miracles to ever witness is the birth of a child. It truly is amazing. I was present at the birth of both of our daughters. However, the birth of our first born was one that taught me a powerful spiritual lesson.  You see, my wife, Sandra, had been in labor over 18 hours when the time finally came for the Nicole to make her debut on the world scene. She quite literally pushed her own way out, causing much needed repair to Sandra’s body…  so much so, that the doctor kept apologizing for what had happened.  I’m sure he was worried about possible legal consequences, though he seemed to do an excellent job in the after birth surgery Sandra required. Due to the tearing that occurred there was a lot of blood, and Nicole came out covered in Sandra’s blood. When he lifted her up she was lifeless and appeared to be dead. I began considering how I would present the news to Sandra and our family members waiting for us. I was totally gripped with sadness and shock at what I saw.

Then the doctor suctioned Nicole’s nose and mouth openings and gave her a swift pop on the rear… Nicole came alive instantly! I remember thinking, “It’s a miracle! Praise God, she’s alive! She’s alive!” I was ecstatic! For all I knew, I had just witnessed a true miracle… and I believe to this day that every birth is a blessed miracle of God.

To me the greatest miracle we can ever witness is that of one being born again. It is a supernatural event with eternal implications. Today’s five understandable words, I believe, are the second most powerful set of five words in the Bible; the first being, “God so loved the world” (John 3:16).  The words for today show Andrew, a disciple of John the Baptist, being ‘introduced’ to Jesus by his mentor, John the Baptist, with the words, “Behold, the Lamb of God” (John 1:36) After John the Baptist declared such, his two disciples immediate-ly left their teacher and began to follow Jesus. Preachers of today get offended when others leave their flock to ‘follow’ another teacher/preacher. However, John the Baptist had an attitude of “He must increase, I must decrease” (John 3:30).

One of the two that left John the Baptist that day was a man named Andrew. He had a brother named Simon. Today’s five simple words describe what will be remembered forever in heaven, and will be remembered every time we as Christ followers bring someone to Jesus. You see, being born again is similar to what happened at my daughter’s birth. The Bible describes each of us as being dead in sin (Ephesians 2:1-3). When God speaks to us through His Holy Spirit (the spiritual obstetrician) we are made alive in Christ, covered by His blood that was shed for us on the cross, just as Nicole was covered by my wife’s blood who gave her body up to deliver her precious life. (Ephesians 2:4-8)

It has been my distinct pleasure to share God’s love with those who are down and out, cut out, left out, pushed out, and kept out by those who are ‘in’. Jesus has a profound love for those who are on the fringes. He even told the Pharisees that those that are well do not need a doctor, and that He came to heal the sick, feed the poor, and release the captives.

The joy of praying with a person whose heart and mind have been touched by the power of God’s Holy Spirit is just as joyous and miraculous as the birth of my daughters. It has been my privilege to pray with people in their homes, in hospitals, in a church pew, in a store aisle, and in our own home as each gave his/her heart to Christ in believing prayer of confession of sin, repentance from sin’s walk, and inviting Jesus into the heart. I want to share with you one experience.

From 2006-2011 I worked at a Lowe’s Home Center during a time when no church would provide me the opportunity to minister. I didn’t know why the door would not open, and trusted God with how He was writing the story of my life. You see, I don’t deserve anything, as I am a sinner saved by God’s grace. God used time, His Word, and other Godly saints to aid in a transformation process that is ongoing – even to this day. A friend of mine remarked once, “Wow! You must have been real bad if it’s taking this long!”  Well, he’s right. God is still working on me. But I digress…  back to the story:

In 2009, I was working at a Lowe’s in Scottsdale, Arizona. During my tenure there, some of the associates began calling me preacher, as I would share Christ with as many as were open to dialogue with me on the matter. Anyway, I man and his mother came into the store and ‘caught’ me as I was walking back to my department. The man was quite upset and asked me where he could find some door locks. I walked with him to the hardware department and showed him our assortment of door handles.  The man asked which ones were the most secure and the least susceptible to being compromised. He wanted four exterior door handles – “the best money can buy,” he said urgently. Then the Holy Spirit prompted me to ask the man a question.

I asked him, “Why do you need them?”

He answered with an obvious broken heart, describing a story of broken promises and a fractured family. His wife had an affair with another man. He was certain that she would attempt to return to take the children when he was not home, and he wanted to prevent such from happening, as he did not want his children exposed to the illicit relationship.

Then I blurted out, “Have you asked God how to handle it?”

He answered, “What did you say?”

His mother began crying. You see, she had told him the same thing in the car on the way over to the store. His mother declared that he would not listen to her unless God intervened and brought an angel to convince him.

His mother interjected, “I prayed that God would lead us to someone that would confront my son with that very question.”

At that moment, I felt that I was free to share with the father. I told him that God wanted him to at least try to win his wife’s heart back; that God has designed marriage in such a way as to make him responsible for the spiritual leadership of his home; that if he would dedicate his home to God and prove it with Godly love and care for his family, God would restore his marriage. After I said it, my human voice was telling me that I was giving him false hope, but in my heart of hearts I wanted God to work for this man and his family.

I asked him if he had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He said no. I asked him if he wanted his marriage and family to be whole again. He said yes. I asked him if he understood that sin separated him from a holy loving God. He shook his head as he began to cry. I asked if he wanted to pray with me to ask Jesus, Who paid the price for our sin on a cruel cross, into his heart and take over his life. He said yes.  So, through the tears and with a short prayer, I witnessed another soul entering the joy of a rescued life and the promise of eternity! We gave each other a hug and high fives. He didn’t buy a thing. He left the store and I returned to my department praising God.

About four months later, that same man entered the store asking every associate he encountered, “Where is the preacher man?” He finally found me in my department. He asked if I remembered him, which I had to honestly say that I didn’t.  He reminded me of the event four months earlier. He described how he shared his faith to his wife… he ‘brought her to Jesus’! He declared his love for her and they were back together as a family; they began attending a local church and began reading God’s Word as well. I couldn’t have been more joyful. I prayed with him right there, thanking God for His power to save and restore lives…  thanking Him for the work He had done and was doing to restore my life. I’ve never seen him again, but I look forward to seeing him in heaven.

Now, I do not share this story to draw any accolades to myself. I simply share it to show how powerfully God can work through one who is willing to share. I’m not even that good at sharing my testimony or talking about salvation, but I do so because Christ directed each believer to tell.

God is so good. Are you open to being used by God to bring someone to Jesus?

FIVE UNDERSTANDABLE WORDS FOR TODAY:

“On whom are you depending?”  Isaiah 36:5

The trials of this world force us to make a decision. We are boxed into a corner. Each of us is manipulated to exhaust every known maneuver, skill, ability, resource, or contact. Then, when we have come to the end of ourselves, the end of human effort, the proverbial fork in the road where we have to choose the path… then we may come to consider this question Sennacherib’s field commander had posed to King Hezekiah’s representatives. The Assyrian king was using the question to taunt the Israeli’s before his impending assault on Jerusalem. The Assyrians had vanquished all other nations in the region and were now poised to conquer Israel. It’s an incredible story of Israel’s leader who humbled himself and sought God’s face… and God answered in a way that proved it was only God Who can intervene in such overwhelming odds. (Isaiah 36-37) 

Charles Spurgeon, noted theologian of the 19th century, when contemplating this question stated his convictions on the matter:

“I trust in a triune God. I trust the Father, believing that He has chosen me from before the foundations of the world; I trust Him to provide for me in providence, to teach me, to guide me, to correct me if need be, and to bring me home to His own house where the many mansions are.

I trust the Son: Very God of very God is He – the man Christ Jesus. I trust in Him to take away all my sins by His own sacrifice, and to adorn me with His perfect righteousness. I trust Him to be my Intercessor, to present my prayers and desires before His Father’s throne, and I trust Him to be my Advocate at the last great day, to plead my cause, and to justify me. I trust Him for what He is, for what He has done, and for what He has promised yet to do.

And I trust the Holy Spirit – He has begun to save me from my inbred sins; I trust Him to drive them all out; I trust Him to curb my temper, to subdue my will, to enlighten my understanding, to help my weakness, to illuminate my darkness; I trust Him to dwell in me as my life, to reign in me as my King, to sanctify me wholly, spirit, soul, and body, and then to take me up to dwell with the saints in light forever.”

Are you feeling like the Israeli king… a bit overwhelmed by the worlds assaults on you, your finances, your work, your family, or even your own inner conflicts with temptation and corruptions of all sorts? Take a lesson from history and let your requests be made known to God Who will go before you and fight your battles.

Dr. Spurgeon went on to say: “Oh, blessed trust! To trust Him Whose power will never be exhausted, whose love will never wane, whose kindness will never change, whose faithfulness will never fail, whose wisdom will never be nonplused, and whose perfect goodness can never decrease! Happy are you, reader, if this trust is yours! So trusting, you shall enjoy sweet peace now, and glory heareafter, and the foundation of your trust shall never be removed.”

God will fight our battles using His means, His people, and His provisions. We are in the midst of a spiritual war in our country. The definitions of marriage and sexuality are becoming increasingly more blurred, while the conflicts between racial and religious cultures escalate. There is so much bad news in the world that we have become numb to its effect on our psyche. Perhaps a bit of good news will light a spark of celebration and encouragement to you:

Recently, I spoke with a representative of a major credit card company linked with a national insurance provider. The rep's name is Sheila. While I was on the phone, I shared with her about my new book. She asked about it and I described it to her. Then we had a brief conversation about her son who is also published (twice!). Then she shared a GREAT story.

Sheila's son plays on a local high school football team in Springfield, MO. At the beginning of the season last year, the head coach informed the players that, due to the interpretation of the law, he could no longer lead the team in prayer before each game. So Sheila's son raised his hand and asked the question:
Does that mean that YOU can't lead the prayer or does that mean that no one can lead the prayer? (He's an astute young man with discernment!) The coach replied that he could not lead the team in prayer. Sheila's son then stepped up to the plate and volunteered to lead the team in prayer before each game, AND THE TEAM SUPPORTED HIS DECISION!!! God has blessed the team with no serious injuries last year, and none so far this year! Isn't that great!!!

I was grinning from ear to ear as Sheila told the story. I was praising God from my heart that He is working in the lives of young people to be intentional about the exercise of their faith. It's hard enough being a young person faced with all the assaults the world gives them today... and to stand and lead his team in prayer meant he was taking a stand for Christ. God bless him! Of course, it was also a blessing to hear this mom describe her son’s conviction and courage to stand for his Savior.

Hope you were blessed by this story! PLEASE SHARE IT!!!!

Five Understandable Words for Today: "... so shall thy strength be." Deuteronomy 33:25

These words are found in the passage which describes the blessings Moses gave to each of the twelve tribes of Israel before they entered the Promised Land. These five simple words are found in the blessing for the tribe of Asher. In these five words, the Lord assures His strength to those who belong to His covenantal family.

Strength can be observed in at least three different ways: physically, emotionally, and spiritually. There are sure to be those who may measure one’s strength materially, educationally, etc. However, for the sake of commentary, we will focus on the three stated above.

Though our physical strength may wane as we get older, God promises His supply of strength to be sufficient for one’s days. The days are fleeting and they are many times exhausting. Oftentimes, people live to work… surrendering to the demands of a grueling schedule and workload for the benefits of financial security to support the costs associated with home ownership, sustenance, clothing, education, entertainment, etc. Others may choose working to live: carefully preparing for a vocation that allows one to enjoy one’s work as well as one’s personal pursuits. We can thank God that in either scenario, He offers strength to meet each day’s demands. (Psalm 23; Isaiah 40:29-31)

One’s emotional makeup is comprised of a myriad of sources from both heredity and environment that are often securely stored in the vault of our minds. If we take these five simple words to heart, we can be assured that God’s strength will empower us to overcome past hurts, failures, regrets, compromises, and even our natural bent toward depression, anger, confusion, etc. As God’s children, we are allowed access to Him for comfort, forgiveness, wisdom, and assurance to be overcomers through the strength found in Christ that works in and through us. In fact, the Bible describes the joy we find in Him becomes our very strength. (Nehemiah 8:10; Psalms 3, 27, 28, 46, & 91, 119:28; Romans 8:29-31; 2 Corinthians 12:8-10; Ephesians 6:10; Philippians 4:13)  

Strength can also come to the Christ follower as a resource for spiritual battle. We are called to stand firm against the powers of darkness (Ephesians 6:10-17); to destroy the spiritual forces of strongholds in our lives, as well as others lives (2 Corinthians 10:3-4); to understand what feeds the evil within ourselves, so that we can deny its source of strength and defeat it (1 Peter 2:11); to be confident in our Advocate (Luke 22:31-32); to understand the dynamics of the battle (2 Chronicles 32:6-8; Joshua 1:9; 1 Peter 4:12-13; 2 Timothy 2:3; Hebrews 3:13).

The name Asher is said to be derived from the Hebrew word for happiness or joy. In fact, the passage that describes the event of Asher’s birth reveals that his birth mother did not name him. Leah named Asher. His birth mother was Zilpah. It’s an intriguing story found in Genesis 29-31.

Isn’t it fitting that the tribe Asher would know strength through their days? Actually, Moses was speaking to the entire Israelite nation through a play on words, reminding the nation that the joy of the Lord is one’s strength, words that Nehemiah would use to encourage the nation many years later when, upon hearing God’s Word proclaimed by Ezra and other priests, lamented their sin (Nehemiah 8:10). Perhaps that is why David prayed, “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation…” (Psalm 51:12)

As we draw near to God in His Word and in Worship, we may sense our deep need for His power to work in us to make us worthy for His Kingdom's work and to carry His name. (Isaiah 6:1-8) O Believer, keep the faith. Carry on in the strength of His might and by the joy of His salvation.

Counting it all joy to know His strength in weakness,

steve

Five Understandable Words for Today: "... people close to His heart." Psalm 148:14

God desires closeness to us. In the Garden of Eden, He actually walked with Adam and Eve, enjoying fellowship with them. However, that closeness was fractured when sin entered the utopian picture of Eden (Ge. 3). In the Bible God is described as perfect light. (I Ti. 6:16; I Jn. 1:5; Re. 21:23) Light scatters darkness.  Our sin is described as darkness, wickedness, like witchcraft…  and it separates us from God.  Our rebellion shrouds what would be the blessing of His perfect will and peace for or lives.  Darkness cannot share the same space as light (2 Co. 6:14), for even a little light will pierce through the darkness for all to see.  The light of God’s Word became the Living Word (John 1:1-14) in God’s plan to restore the broken connection caused by sin.

The Bible tells us to draw near to God and He will reciprocate.  He does not force himself on us; He gave us a will to respond to His enticements of love and care.  The old covenant was one of distance.  When Moses’ curiosity led him to the burning bush, Moses heard God say, “Do not come any closer.  Take off your sandals, for the ground on which you are standing is holy ground.” When Moses met with God on Mount Sinai, God commanded Moses to “…put barriers around the mountain, lest any who try to approach God die.” Temple worship also reflected this same distance caused by man’s rebellious and sinful ways: the majority of the nation could not even enter the outer court, and only the priests were allowed into the inner court; and the holy of holies was forbidden to all but the high priest who entered there only once a year.

God was demonstrating to the people that He takes sin very seriously; that sin was loathsome to Him… so much so that He treated them like lepers who were to be put out of the city. That ‘s the picture of how sin separates us so severely from a holy and just God. Yet, God’s heart was always to draw His children close to His heart… so He sent His one and only Son to become sin for us… to take the punishment we deserved upon the cross at Golgatha. It was at that moment that the warnings to stay at a distance became pleas to draw near.

The new covenant was established through Jesus Christ, Who invited all to come to Him. His invitation never stopped. His words enticed those who had fallen into the disrepair of sin to come near to Him – the mender of broken lives and hearts. “Come to me all who are weak and weighed down, and I will give you rest” is an unconditional announcement of availability. We who were distant now have access to God through the blood Christ shed for us on the cross. Indeed, He has broken down every wall, every barrier, every excuse, every doubt of unworthiness so that we might come freely to Him – as a child approaches a loving father, showing no reservation or fear (He. 10:19-22).

There will come a day of even closer fellowship, greater access to God. Heaven is described by the apostle John:  “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” Even so, Lord, come quickly.

"And now these three remain..." - I Corinthians 13:13

Why did Paul end this eloquent description of love with this statement? The list he provided of perpetually provided spiritual gifts are faith, hope, and love. The writer had already presented a crash course in those gifts which are either temporary or will end after our time on earth. Paul wants the reader to know that there are three gifts from God that will last forever.

Faith is a gift from Jesus Himself (He. 12:2). Hebrews states that faith is the assurance of things hoped for (11:1). In other words, faith feeds hope. Hope springs from the bedrock of faith. Jesus described faith in Him as the Rock upon which He would build His church, (Mt. 16:13-20) and that flesh and blood (Peter’s own five senses) had not revealed such faith to Peter, but God had provided the faith to enlighten Peter’s heart, recognizing Jesus as the Son of the Living God. Jesus was the fulfillment of the hope of Israel – the literal substance of things hoped for! Faith is also exercised in the conviction about things unseen. Again, the writer of Hebrews states that everything that was made (that we can experience personally) were constructed from what is invisible – referring to the Genesis account of God speaking things into existence. The writer also states that it is impossible to please God except through faith.
(He. 11:6)

Hope is the exercise of faith in a person’s life experience. Solomon described this exercise: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not lean on your own understanding of things (your experience or senses), but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.” (3:5-6) Trust is faith in action. Trusting God seems to be difficult for many people even though they exercise trust countless times each day. We demonstrate trust when: we trust builders and electricians to build homes correctly; we trust the wiring in our homes to turn our lights on without burning down the house; we trust the pilot and the plane to get us to our destination; we trust other people not to plow into us on the highway; we trust manufacturers to supply untainted foods and medicines to us. Paul taught the church in Rome that, “hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees?  But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.” (Ro. 8:24-25) He articulated the same precept to the Corinthians: “…we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (2 Co. 4:18)

Love is the outcome of faith and hope as it is exercised through the conduit of our lives to God and to each other. This is why Paul spent so much time explaining the precept of love. He articulated the evidences of recognizing genuine, eternal, spiritual love. These qualities about love describe God Himself, for God IS love. (I Jn. 4:8) Jesus described the evidence of a real disciple of His way is seen in how they love each other. (Jn. 13:35) Our treatment of each other will entice the world for relationships that are transparent, full of mercy and truth. The love of a husband and wife will demonstrate to the world a picture of God’s love for the church. (Ep. 5:22-33) The greatest demonstration of love was shown through the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross as an act of redemption for the sins of mankind. He quite literally paid the penalty for our sins. (Jn. 3:16) Love gives… and gives… and gives…

Faith, hope, and love will be eternally existent and we will appreciate and enjoy their benefits in heaven as we exercise them perpetually to God and each other.

I believe in you and hope for the best in your life…

With great love,

Steve

“We have found the Messiah!” - John 1:41

The expectation for a deliverer who would establish the heavenly kingdom was deeply embedded in the hearts of Israelites for millennia. It had been predicted throughout their prophetic literature which became the hope of a small country toward final national legitimacy. Imagine the excitement in the mind of Andrew as he scurried to find his brother, Simon (later known as Peter, the disciple so named by Jesus). You see, Andrew had spent time with John the Baptist, ‘soaking in’ (pardon the pun, I just couldn’t help it) the wilderness theologian’s instruction on sin, redemption, and a soon coming final sacrifice – The Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world; the one Who baptizes in the Holy Spirit. (see John 1:29-33)

It seems Andrew took John’s recognition of Jesus literally and began to follow Him. Jesus welcomed him, and even showed Andrew where he was staying. Andrew and Peter quickly witnessed Jesus inviting Philip to come along. Like Andrew, Philip shared similar news with his friend Nathanael. Jesus convinced Nathanael of His identity when He described seeing him under a fig tree before Philip found him.

The remarkable dynamic with both Andrew and Philip is the compelling wonder for each to share the news of finding the Messiah – as if each had the exclusive insider knowledge of this long awaited deliverer. It began with John the Baptizer who pointed Andrew to Jesus. It seems Philip may have been a friend of Andrew’s, as they were both from Bethsaida. (see John 1:44) Do you see how contagious good news is? This seems to be the case when people discover the person of Jesus.

There was a woman Jesus met who ran to her village exclaiming that she had met the Christ, the promised one. (see John 4:29) And the entire village convinced Jesus to stay with them another two days, and many from that village came to place their trust in the authenticity of His Lordship. Jesus has always had that kind of effect on people because of the affect He has on the hearts of all who encounter His love and its power to be reconciled to God.

In fact, one could say that a true follower of Christ is contagious with enthusiasm about telling others about Him, His love, His power to heal, and His call to come apart from the world and its ways. I’m not talking about the world’s enthusiasm that is full of fluff, but the enthusiasm that is verified through a committed walk and passion to see others come into the same blessing of Christ’s light and life.

If you are a fully devoted follower of Christ, you will be an ‘Andrew’ to someone in your family, or a ‘Philip’ to a friend in your community, or a joyous citizen informing your community of God’s reconciling love through Jesus Christ. Let it be a litmus test for your life today in measuring your followship to Christ’s Lordship.

We’ve got good news to share in the world of bad news… let’s share it.

Steve