PASTOR TODD'S PAGE
Through my days and nights of bible study, prayer, meditation and life, God shows me quotes, devotions, articles and places things in my mind and heart that I would like to share with others.
That is what this page is all about. Or it could be the musings of a man that has lived a life for the world and now a life in Christ. Thank God He pulled me out of the muck and mire of this world and placed me on the rock of Jesus Christ! The Christian life is not an easy life, but it is a life worth living to the fullest.
I truly believe that when we honor God, He will honor and bless us. We may not receive our true rewards until we are in His eternal presence, but He does promise us His peace, His joy, and most of all His love while we believe in and trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord on this side of eternity.
No matter what I share, I will always encourage you to live as a follower of Jesus Christ, not just as a fan. Together, we must be on the frontline for Jesus, not the sideline.
That is what this page is all about. Or it could be the musings of a man that has lived a life for the world and now a life in Christ. Thank God He pulled me out of the muck and mire of this world and placed me on the rock of Jesus Christ! The Christian life is not an easy life, but it is a life worth living to the fullest.
I truly believe that when we honor God, He will honor and bless us. We may not receive our true rewards until we are in His eternal presence, but He does promise us His peace, His joy, and most of all His love while we believe in and trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord on this side of eternity.
No matter what I share, I will always encourage you to live as a follower of Jesus Christ, not just as a fan. Together, we must be on the frontline for Jesus, not the sideline.
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Faithful Perseverance
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4
Last Sunday (March 26th) we learned about the fruit of the Spirit faithfulness. One point I did not mention was how we are able to be faithful. I believe faithfulness takes perseverance.
Perseverance is defined as “steadfastness, constancy, endurance; a patient waiting.” According to today's key passage, trials test our faith. And faith develops perseverance, which is necessary if we are going to be spiritually mature and produce spiritual fruit. Most believers would likely agree with this truth. But, what about the joy? How many of us consider it pure joy to develop perseverance?
The problem for many of us isn’t a lack of knowledge. The problem is a divided heart. To find joy during trials, Christ and His glory must be the object of our heart’s affection. In every situation, our goal must be to know Him more and to reflect His character. Only when this is true can we have joy when our faith is being tested.
Perseverance is not easy. Just ask any long-distance runner. It hurts to keep running when everything in you longs to stop. The motivation to continue is the reward. The same is true spiritually. Considering it joy to face trials does not mean that we enjoy the hardship. God is not asking us to be happy to have cancer or to lose a loved one. Jesus was not happy when He went to the cross…but “for the joy set before Him” He endured (Hebrews 12:2). The joy comes because our hearts are fixed on Jesus; He is our reward. And to be mature in Him, we must learn to persevere.
So, if you are struggling to have joy when your faith is tested, examine your heart. Where do your affections lie? Take heart and persevere! The reward is worth the hardship.
Prayer: Jesus, You are my reward. Please help me to remember this when I face trials that test my faith. I want to be found faithful, Lord. Help me to rely on Your strength to persevere. In Jesus’ name, amen.
On Your Own: Write down a time or times when you persevered through trials. Did you do it joyfully? Does this devotion encourage you to look at trials differently? How will you find joy in your trials? Practice perseverance.
Faithful Perseverance
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4
Last Sunday (March 26th) we learned about the fruit of the Spirit faithfulness. One point I did not mention was how we are able to be faithful. I believe faithfulness takes perseverance.
Perseverance is defined as “steadfastness, constancy, endurance; a patient waiting.” According to today's key passage, trials test our faith. And faith develops perseverance, which is necessary if we are going to be spiritually mature and produce spiritual fruit. Most believers would likely agree with this truth. But, what about the joy? How many of us consider it pure joy to develop perseverance?
The problem for many of us isn’t a lack of knowledge. The problem is a divided heart. To find joy during trials, Christ and His glory must be the object of our heart’s affection. In every situation, our goal must be to know Him more and to reflect His character. Only when this is true can we have joy when our faith is being tested.
Perseverance is not easy. Just ask any long-distance runner. It hurts to keep running when everything in you longs to stop. The motivation to continue is the reward. The same is true spiritually. Considering it joy to face trials does not mean that we enjoy the hardship. God is not asking us to be happy to have cancer or to lose a loved one. Jesus was not happy when He went to the cross…but “for the joy set before Him” He endured (Hebrews 12:2). The joy comes because our hearts are fixed on Jesus; He is our reward. And to be mature in Him, we must learn to persevere.
So, if you are struggling to have joy when your faith is tested, examine your heart. Where do your affections lie? Take heart and persevere! The reward is worth the hardship.
Prayer: Jesus, You are my reward. Please help me to remember this when I face trials that test my faith. I want to be found faithful, Lord. Help me to rely on Your strength to persevere. In Jesus’ name, amen.
On Your Own: Write down a time or times when you persevered through trials. Did you do it joyfully? Does this devotion encourage you to look at trials differently? How will you find joy in your trials? Practice perseverance.
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
Stress Relief
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Last Sunday (March 5th) we learned from this passage that fear always leads to anxiety, but faith in Jesus Christ always leads to peace. We talked about how we can deal with worry, anxiety, and stress. We can rejoice in the person of God and relax in the presence of God. In this devotion, we’re going to continue this conversation and discuss two more steps you can take to handle the stress that’s overwhelming you.
Let’s start with how Paul encourages you to release your problems to the Lord. I know it gets irritating when you are worried and somebody says to you, “Quit worrying”, but that is exactly what Paul does. If you want to put a positive spin on it, he says, “Worry about nothing.” That is a lot easier said than done. There is a reason why we shouldn’t worry. It is a waste of time. My grandfather told me that “Worry is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere.”
How do you keep from worrying? What is the alternative? Paul tells us how when he says, “...but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). Worry about nothing and pray about everything. But do you know what we tend to do? We tend to worry about everything and pray about nothing! Those are your only two alternatives and you will do one or the other. So, make the best decision and choose to release your problems and your worries to the Lord.
Finally, another step you can take to experience stress relief is to rest in the peace of the Lord. The peace that only God can give will be a guard over your heart and your mind. Stress cannot penetrate it. This is not the kind of temporary peace that people try to find through money, possession, drugs, or alcohol, because that peace never lasts anyway. It is a peace that can’t be bought, borrowed, or stolen. It is not found in a pill; it is found in person. It is not a drug or a drink; it is found in a deity.
So, when, not if, you are stressed out, I want you to imagine you have three boxes. One box is labeled “worry.” One box is labeled “prayer.” One box is labeled “thanksgiving.” In the worry box, you put nothing. In the prayer box, you put everything. In the thanksgiving box, you put anything. If you put each of those things in the box where they belong, you will find when you are stressed out, God will take the stress out. May you rest in His peace today and every day.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I don’t want to be stressed out anymore. I don’t want to be consumed by worry and anxiousness about what’s going on around me. Instead, I want to experience your overwhelming comfort and peace. So, help me when I’m tempted to worry to instead pray about everything and have a thankful heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Stress Relief
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Last Sunday (March 5th) we learned from this passage that fear always leads to anxiety, but faith in Jesus Christ always leads to peace. We talked about how we can deal with worry, anxiety, and stress. We can rejoice in the person of God and relax in the presence of God. In this devotion, we’re going to continue this conversation and discuss two more steps you can take to handle the stress that’s overwhelming you.
Let’s start with how Paul encourages you to release your problems to the Lord. I know it gets irritating when you are worried and somebody says to you, “Quit worrying”, but that is exactly what Paul does. If you want to put a positive spin on it, he says, “Worry about nothing.” That is a lot easier said than done. There is a reason why we shouldn’t worry. It is a waste of time. My grandfather told me that “Worry is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere.”
How do you keep from worrying? What is the alternative? Paul tells us how when he says, “...but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). Worry about nothing and pray about everything. But do you know what we tend to do? We tend to worry about everything and pray about nothing! Those are your only two alternatives and you will do one or the other. So, make the best decision and choose to release your problems and your worries to the Lord.
Finally, another step you can take to experience stress relief is to rest in the peace of the Lord. The peace that only God can give will be a guard over your heart and your mind. Stress cannot penetrate it. This is not the kind of temporary peace that people try to find through money, possession, drugs, or alcohol, because that peace never lasts anyway. It is a peace that can’t be bought, borrowed, or stolen. It is not found in a pill; it is found in person. It is not a drug or a drink; it is found in a deity.
So, when, not if, you are stressed out, I want you to imagine you have three boxes. One box is labeled “worry.” One box is labeled “prayer.” One box is labeled “thanksgiving.” In the worry box, you put nothing. In the prayer box, you put everything. In the thanksgiving box, you put anything. If you put each of those things in the box where they belong, you will find when you are stressed out, God will take the stress out. May you rest in His peace today and every day.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I don’t want to be stressed out anymore. I don’t want to be consumed by worry and anxiousness about what’s going on around me. Instead, I want to experience your overwhelming comfort and peace. So, help me when I’m tempted to worry to instead pray about everything and have a thankful heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Tuesday, February 28, 2023
The Prize
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14
Tonight (Tuesday, February 28th), the men of our community come together at our church for food, fellowship, and fun. The fun part is a cribbage tournament. The winner of our cribbage tournament receives a prize. Now this prize is nice, but it doesn’t come close to the prize of Jesus Christ.
Why should a Christian, if he already has Jesus through faith, still “press on” toward Him, as Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians? Here in verse 14, Paul reiterates that he is pressing on “toward the goal to win the prize.”
Isn’t salvation the prize? Apparently, it is not. In fact, salvation is not the goal or the prize. Salvation is what comes because of pursuing the prize. The prize is Christ. The goal is to know Him. He is the author, finisher, and the subject of our faith. This perspective changes everything. If we make salvation or heaven our goal, once our eternity is secured what motivation have, we to “press on,” as Paul wrote? I am not suggesting that Christians shouldn’t long for heaven…quite the opposite is true. We should long for heaven because it is there that we will finally see Jesus face to face.
Paul’s goal was to know Christ and his prize was to be with Him forever. Matthew Henry once said, “Wherever there is true grace, there is a desire for more grace.” We run hard after Christ to know Him more. Such desire and pursuit prove that we have experienced His true saving grace. We “press on” because God has adopted us as His own children. What child doesn’t want to know His earthly father? It delights a son to commune with his father. How much more, then, should it delight us to grow in our relationship with our perfect Heavenly Father?
How, then, do we run hard after Jesus? First, by forgetting what is behind. This doesn’t mean that we never look back. It means that we should only look back for the sake of pressing forward. Then, we strain toward what is ahead. We must set our hearts on the true goal and then order all else around Him instead of squeezing Him into an already-full calendar.
None of this is possible without an attitude of dissatisfaction. Paul began this passage by acknowledging that he had not “arrived” spiritually. Despite the mighty ways God was using him, the souls he had seen converted, the churches he had planted, or his suffering for the sake of the gospel, he wanted more…more Jesus. What about you? Are you comfortable where you are or does your heart long to know Him more?
Prayer: Father God, please develop a holy dissatisfaction in my soul that drives me to chase after Your Son. May knowing Him more always be my top priority. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The Prize
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14
Tonight (Tuesday, February 28th), the men of our community come together at our church for food, fellowship, and fun. The fun part is a cribbage tournament. The winner of our cribbage tournament receives a prize. Now this prize is nice, but it doesn’t come close to the prize of Jesus Christ.
Why should a Christian, if he already has Jesus through faith, still “press on” toward Him, as Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians? Here in verse 14, Paul reiterates that he is pressing on “toward the goal to win the prize.”
Isn’t salvation the prize? Apparently, it is not. In fact, salvation is not the goal or the prize. Salvation is what comes because of pursuing the prize. The prize is Christ. The goal is to know Him. He is the author, finisher, and the subject of our faith. This perspective changes everything. If we make salvation or heaven our goal, once our eternity is secured what motivation have, we to “press on,” as Paul wrote? I am not suggesting that Christians shouldn’t long for heaven…quite the opposite is true. We should long for heaven because it is there that we will finally see Jesus face to face.
Paul’s goal was to know Christ and his prize was to be with Him forever. Matthew Henry once said, “Wherever there is true grace, there is a desire for more grace.” We run hard after Christ to know Him more. Such desire and pursuit prove that we have experienced His true saving grace. We “press on” because God has adopted us as His own children. What child doesn’t want to know His earthly father? It delights a son to commune with his father. How much more, then, should it delight us to grow in our relationship with our perfect Heavenly Father?
How, then, do we run hard after Jesus? First, by forgetting what is behind. This doesn’t mean that we never look back. It means that we should only look back for the sake of pressing forward. Then, we strain toward what is ahead. We must set our hearts on the true goal and then order all else around Him instead of squeezing Him into an already-full calendar.
None of this is possible without an attitude of dissatisfaction. Paul began this passage by acknowledging that he had not “arrived” spiritually. Despite the mighty ways God was using him, the souls he had seen converted, the churches he had planted, or his suffering for the sake of the gospel, he wanted more…more Jesus. What about you? Are you comfortable where you are or does your heart long to know Him more?
Prayer: Father God, please develop a holy dissatisfaction in my soul that drives me to chase after Your Son. May knowing Him more always be my top priority. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, February 14, 2023
Enduring Love
“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7
We are starting our new series on the Fruit of the Spirit this Sunday, February 19th with a message on love. And as I put this devotion together today it is Valentine’s Day. So, in keeping with the theme of love, let’s look at it from a different angle.
When looking at Paul’s description of the fruit of love in 1 Corinthians 13, almost all of the attributes (13 out of 15) seem to fit into two categories: love is enduring, and it is humble. I want to focus on the category of endurance.
Paul says:
Love is patient (long-suffering)
Love bears all things (to cover over and protect, to preserve)
Love believes all things (to credit or place confidence in)
Love hopes all things (to trust in with joy and full confidence)
Love endures all things (remains, doesn’t recede, or flee)
If you were to ask people how they would describe love, I would bet that very few would use the word endurance. We tend to think of love as a soft, fluttery feeling. But Paul describes just the opposite. Love is an action, a choice we make. It takes effort to love well. Christ-like love does not just happen because you are a Christian. It must be cultivated and learned.
As the body of Christ, are we practicing enduring love? Remember, this chapter is part of a letter Paul was writing to the struggling church in Corinth. The Corinthians were not acting in love. They were “boasting in men” (3:21). They were prideful even in sin (5:1-2). They were unwilling to bear all things and were taking each other to court (6:1-8). They were insisting on their own way and causing others to stumble (8:11-12). They were jealous as they compared their spiritual gifts (12:21-22). Paul wasn’t merely defining love; he was applying love to the messed-up Corinthian church. He was saying, “This is not how love acts or feels.”
I believe it is important to point out something about the enduring quality of love. Wherever there is love, there will be pain. Love suffers long, bears, and endures. This is a comforting truth. If two people, or 200 people, are in a relationship, there will be hurt at some point. This is why love must endure, believe, and hope. Marriages will struggle, friendships will be tested, and those you love and who love you will disappoint you. This does not diminish love. In fact, it can deepen love if we allow God to work in and through us in our relationships.
Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me not to be easily offended, but to be willing to overlook a wrong. I want to love with endurance in all my relationships. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Enduring Love
“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7
We are starting our new series on the Fruit of the Spirit this Sunday, February 19th with a message on love. And as I put this devotion together today it is Valentine’s Day. So, in keeping with the theme of love, let’s look at it from a different angle.
When looking at Paul’s description of the fruit of love in 1 Corinthians 13, almost all of the attributes (13 out of 15) seem to fit into two categories: love is enduring, and it is humble. I want to focus on the category of endurance.
Paul says:
Love is patient (long-suffering)
Love bears all things (to cover over and protect, to preserve)
Love believes all things (to credit or place confidence in)
Love hopes all things (to trust in with joy and full confidence)
Love endures all things (remains, doesn’t recede, or flee)
If you were to ask people how they would describe love, I would bet that very few would use the word endurance. We tend to think of love as a soft, fluttery feeling. But Paul describes just the opposite. Love is an action, a choice we make. It takes effort to love well. Christ-like love does not just happen because you are a Christian. It must be cultivated and learned.
As the body of Christ, are we practicing enduring love? Remember, this chapter is part of a letter Paul was writing to the struggling church in Corinth. The Corinthians were not acting in love. They were “boasting in men” (3:21). They were prideful even in sin (5:1-2). They were unwilling to bear all things and were taking each other to court (6:1-8). They were insisting on their own way and causing others to stumble (8:11-12). They were jealous as they compared their spiritual gifts (12:21-22). Paul wasn’t merely defining love; he was applying love to the messed-up Corinthian church. He was saying, “This is not how love acts or feels.”
I believe it is important to point out something about the enduring quality of love. Wherever there is love, there will be pain. Love suffers long, bears, and endures. This is a comforting truth. If two people, or 200 people, are in a relationship, there will be hurt at some point. This is why love must endure, believe, and hope. Marriages will struggle, friendships will be tested, and those you love and who love you will disappoint you. This does not diminish love. In fact, it can deepen love if we allow God to work in and through us in our relationships.
Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me not to be easily offended, but to be willing to overlook a wrong. I want to love with endurance in all my relationships. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, January 4, 2023
Christmas Leftovers and Humble Beginnings
“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” Luke 2:6-7
As the Creator and Ruler of the universe, one would think that God could have seen to it that there was a guest room available for the birth of His Son. Instead, the Word became flesh in a cave-like stable, surrounded by animals, with their feeding trough as His crib.
It is true that God could have done things differently. Jesus could have been born into earthly wealth a royalty. When tempted in the wilderness, He could have turned the stone into bread. As He labored in Gethsemane, He could have summoned a host of angels to His rescue. He could have silenced the jeers of the mockers by coming down from the cross where He hung, suffered, and died.
So often we ask the wrong questions. It’s not about what God could have done – it’s what He willed to do. His will was an exchange…the world order turned on its head. His will was Christ made poor on our behalf and us made rich by His poverty. God’s will was death bringing life, suffering producing joy, and wrath bringing peace. The humble birth was for our sakes.
Ponder the truth that Christ’s road to Calvary began with the inns being full in Bethlehem. Christ entered the world the same way He died…lowly and without fanfare…stripped of the honor He is so worthy of receiving…followed by shepherds, prostitutes, and tax collectors instead of rich, powerful, influential people. This was the will of God.
Following this humble Savior and Reigning Lord means joining Him in His life, not inviting Him into ours. He warned His followers, “Anyone who comes after Me must deny himself and take up his cross…” His reminder to us is, “A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you.”
Choosing God’s will through faith in Christ requires sacrifice. As we join in His life, we will imitate Christ, making ourselves less so that He is glorified. This means willingly placing the needs of others before our own. It means giving up so that others may gain Christ. It is death bringing life, the last being first, and the humble being exalted. This is the Christ-life, and this is why He came.
Prayer: Father, your ways are higher, and Your thoughts are greater than mine. Please forgive me for the times I question Your judgment. Help me to believe that You always know what is best for me. Help me to depend on You, wait on You, and follow You in all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Christmas Leftovers and Humble Beginnings
“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” Luke 2:6-7
As the Creator and Ruler of the universe, one would think that God could have seen to it that there was a guest room available for the birth of His Son. Instead, the Word became flesh in a cave-like stable, surrounded by animals, with their feeding trough as His crib.
It is true that God could have done things differently. Jesus could have been born into earthly wealth a royalty. When tempted in the wilderness, He could have turned the stone into bread. As He labored in Gethsemane, He could have summoned a host of angels to His rescue. He could have silenced the jeers of the mockers by coming down from the cross where He hung, suffered, and died.
So often we ask the wrong questions. It’s not about what God could have done – it’s what He willed to do. His will was an exchange…the world order turned on its head. His will was Christ made poor on our behalf and us made rich by His poverty. God’s will was death bringing life, suffering producing joy, and wrath bringing peace. The humble birth was for our sakes.
Ponder the truth that Christ’s road to Calvary began with the inns being full in Bethlehem. Christ entered the world the same way He died…lowly and without fanfare…stripped of the honor He is so worthy of receiving…followed by shepherds, prostitutes, and tax collectors instead of rich, powerful, influential people. This was the will of God.
Following this humble Savior and Reigning Lord means joining Him in His life, not inviting Him into ours. He warned His followers, “Anyone who comes after Me must deny himself and take up his cross…” His reminder to us is, “A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you.”
Choosing God’s will through faith in Christ requires sacrifice. As we join in His life, we will imitate Christ, making ourselves less so that He is glorified. This means willingly placing the needs of others before our own. It means giving up so that others may gain Christ. It is death bringing life, the last being first, and the humble being exalted. This is the Christ-life, and this is why He came.
Prayer: Father, your ways are higher, and Your thoughts are greater than mine. Please forgive me for the times I question Your judgment. Help me to believe that You always know what is best for me. Help me to depend on You, wait on You, and follow You in all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, September 22, 2022
You are the One
Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So, he told them this parable: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:1-7
One. One of a kind. That is you!
Jesus, the Great Shepherd, will not give up on you. No one has your gifts and talents. No one has your same life experience. The God who created you to be unique sees you. How often did Jesus stop for one person? Usually, the one who no one else noticed or the one everyone avoided. The woman at the well, the tax collector, the woman who was sick for many years, the sick and the sinner. Remember the one lost sheep? No matter how far you have wandered Jesus says, “that one needs me.” It’s that love for each one of us that that He showed on the cross. He will always come for each one. Rest in Him.
You are the One
Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So, he told them this parable: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:1-7
One. One of a kind. That is you!
Jesus, the Great Shepherd, will not give up on you. No one has your gifts and talents. No one has your same life experience. The God who created you to be unique sees you. How often did Jesus stop for one person? Usually, the one who no one else noticed or the one everyone avoided. The woman at the well, the tax collector, the woman who was sick for many years, the sick and the sinner. Remember the one lost sheep? No matter how far you have wandered Jesus says, “that one needs me.” It’s that love for each one of us that that He showed on the cross. He will always come for each one. Rest in Him.
Monday, May 2, 2022
FOMO
An important part of my daily devotional time is spent studying the Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes. On January 1st of each year, I start in Psalm 1 and complete Ecclesiastes on December 30th. Over the past few days, I have been in Psalms 73 and 74.
Have you heard of “FOMO” or the fear of missing out? Psalm 73 speaks to this. We are tempted to doubt God’s goodness toward us and envy the lives of the unbeliever. They reject God and are consumed by worldly, selfish desires. God’s elect watch as the wicked enjoy practices and substances that we know are wrong but appear pleasurable. The wicked appear at times to prosper while the redeemed suffer, but that is not the entire story.
Bottom line…God is good to His people. We are blessed with the grace of redemption and eternal life in the presence of our Almighty Father! The unsaved…lost…wicked…whatever word you want to use may prosper on earth, but they will one day experience the eternal horrors of hell. Again, not popular teaching even in so-called Christian circles, but the truth hurts as the saying goes.
We belong to the one true God and have an eternal inheritance reserved for us. Do not be consumed by the lies of Satan and the world…count your blessings, as my mom taught me. Especially the blessing of the love of Jesus Christ! And, honestly, I have had more fun as a Christian than ever before.
As I write this and pray for our church family, I have one more thing to add…what’s new right? LOL
I have a burden for our church family to gather each week. I know, here we go…Pastor wants to fill seats…that is all he is concerned about. Well, you are wrong.
We had a large group at our service yesterday with several church family members missing. Some were sick, some were travelling, some had emergencies on their farm or ranch, and some were serving their neighbors. The “some” I am most concerned about are those who do not prioritize gathering regularly with their Christian brothers and sisters. This is always a touchy subject and can come across as legalistic or judgmental…not my intention. I believe with all my heart that it is important for brothers and sisters in Christ to fellowship and worship together on a regular basis. I will not bore you with another “sermon.” I just want you all to know that when you are not with us on Sunday morning, I miss you. I love you and I pray for you. I would drop whatever I was doing to serve you and care for you. I spend extra time each week to have an online message/service available for you, but it is for the exception not the rule.
If you feel like it has been too long…it's not. I see my family back east once a year and it is like we were together the day before. That is a sign of a relationship built on love.
FOMO
An important part of my daily devotional time is spent studying the Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes. On January 1st of each year, I start in Psalm 1 and complete Ecclesiastes on December 30th. Over the past few days, I have been in Psalms 73 and 74.
Have you heard of “FOMO” or the fear of missing out? Psalm 73 speaks to this. We are tempted to doubt God’s goodness toward us and envy the lives of the unbeliever. They reject God and are consumed by worldly, selfish desires. God’s elect watch as the wicked enjoy practices and substances that we know are wrong but appear pleasurable. The wicked appear at times to prosper while the redeemed suffer, but that is not the entire story.
Bottom line…God is good to His people. We are blessed with the grace of redemption and eternal life in the presence of our Almighty Father! The unsaved…lost…wicked…whatever word you want to use may prosper on earth, but they will one day experience the eternal horrors of hell. Again, not popular teaching even in so-called Christian circles, but the truth hurts as the saying goes.
We belong to the one true God and have an eternal inheritance reserved for us. Do not be consumed by the lies of Satan and the world…count your blessings, as my mom taught me. Especially the blessing of the love of Jesus Christ! And, honestly, I have had more fun as a Christian than ever before.
As I write this and pray for our church family, I have one more thing to add…what’s new right? LOL
I have a burden for our church family to gather each week. I know, here we go…Pastor wants to fill seats…that is all he is concerned about. Well, you are wrong.
We had a large group at our service yesterday with several church family members missing. Some were sick, some were travelling, some had emergencies on their farm or ranch, and some were serving their neighbors. The “some” I am most concerned about are those who do not prioritize gathering regularly with their Christian brothers and sisters. This is always a touchy subject and can come across as legalistic or judgmental…not my intention. I believe with all my heart that it is important for brothers and sisters in Christ to fellowship and worship together on a regular basis. I will not bore you with another “sermon.” I just want you all to know that when you are not with us on Sunday morning, I miss you. I love you and I pray for you. I would drop whatever I was doing to serve you and care for you. I spend extra time each week to have an online message/service available for you, but it is for the exception not the rule.
If you feel like it has been too long…it's not. I see my family back east once a year and it is like we were together the day before. That is a sign of a relationship built on love.
Thursday, April 21, 2022
Grace over Sin
“A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and poured perfume on them.” Luke 7:37-38
So often, we think that sin disqualifies us from the grace of God. The truth is, sin is the only thing that qualifies us for the grace of God. We don’t give up our sin and then receive God’s grace. We receive God’s grace and then have the power - through His Spirit - to give up our sin. Grace always receives us in our sin.
Grace is a person…Jesus!
Grace over Sin
“A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and poured perfume on them.” Luke 7:37-38
So often, we think that sin disqualifies us from the grace of God. The truth is, sin is the only thing that qualifies us for the grace of God. We don’t give up our sin and then receive God’s grace. We receive God’s grace and then have the power - through His Spirit - to give up our sin. Grace always receives us in our sin.
Grace is a person…Jesus!
Tuesday, March 1, 2022
Lent 2022
Two things have maintained an important place in my faith-walk with Christ from my upbringing as a Catholic. Those are the importance of the Lord’s Prayer and the observance of Lent. I pray the Lord’s prayer every time I stop to spend time with Abba. It focuses my attention on God immediately.
Lent to me is a practice to focus my attention on Jesus Christ; on His death and resurrection that we celebrate on Resurrection/Easter Sunday. This year the season of Lent begins tomorrow, March 2nd. For the next 46 days I fast daily by limiting my eating window and do a full day fast on Wednesdays. There are other things I practice, but those are personal. Like a good devotional plan, you must find what works for you if you observe Lent. Lent is not a command from God or an ordinance of Christ. I do not get legalistic about it (i.e. no meat on Fridays, etc.) but instead focus on Christ. As we know…our salvation is not based on what we have done or will do for God, but what Christ did for us on the cross and what God did through Christ’s resurrection.
I found this at GotQuestions.org.
What is Lent?
Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial traditionally observed by Catholics and some Protestant denominations. It begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter Sunday. The length of the Lenten fast was established in the 4th century as 46 days (40 days, not counting Sundays). During Lent, participants eat sparingly or give up a particular food or habit. It’s not uncommon for people to give up smoking during Lent, or to swear off watching television or eating candy. It’s six weeks of self-discipline.
Lent began as a way for Catholics to remind themselves of the value of repentance. The austerity of the Lenten season was seen as similar to how people in the Old Testament fasted and repented in sackcloth and ashes (Esther 4:1-3; Jeremiah 6:26; Daniel 9:3).
However, over the centuries Lenten observances have developed a much more "sacramental" value. Many Catholics believe that giving something up for Lent is a way to attain God’s blessing. But the Bible teaches that grace cannot be earned; grace is “the gift of righteousness” (Romans 5:17). Also, Jesus taught that fasting should be done discreetly: “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen” (Matthew 6:16-18). Jesus’ command to “wash your face” seems to conflict with the practice of rubbing ashes on one’s face on Ash Wednesday.
Fasting can be a good thing, and God is pleased when we repent of sinful habits. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with setting aside some time to focus on Jesus’ death and resurrection. However, repenting of sin is something we should be doing every day of the year, not just for the 46 days of Lent.
If a Christian wishes to observe Lent, he or she is free to do so. The key is to focus on repenting of sin and consecrating oneself to God. Lent should not be a time of boasting of one’s sacrifice or trying to earn God’s favor or increasing His love.
God’s love for us could not be any greater than it already is.
Lent 2022
Two things have maintained an important place in my faith-walk with Christ from my upbringing as a Catholic. Those are the importance of the Lord’s Prayer and the observance of Lent. I pray the Lord’s prayer every time I stop to spend time with Abba. It focuses my attention on God immediately.
Lent to me is a practice to focus my attention on Jesus Christ; on His death and resurrection that we celebrate on Resurrection/Easter Sunday. This year the season of Lent begins tomorrow, March 2nd. For the next 46 days I fast daily by limiting my eating window and do a full day fast on Wednesdays. There are other things I practice, but those are personal. Like a good devotional plan, you must find what works for you if you observe Lent. Lent is not a command from God or an ordinance of Christ. I do not get legalistic about it (i.e. no meat on Fridays, etc.) but instead focus on Christ. As we know…our salvation is not based on what we have done or will do for God, but what Christ did for us on the cross and what God did through Christ’s resurrection.
I found this at GotQuestions.org.
What is Lent?
Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial traditionally observed by Catholics and some Protestant denominations. It begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter Sunday. The length of the Lenten fast was established in the 4th century as 46 days (40 days, not counting Sundays). During Lent, participants eat sparingly or give up a particular food or habit. It’s not uncommon for people to give up smoking during Lent, or to swear off watching television or eating candy. It’s six weeks of self-discipline.
Lent began as a way for Catholics to remind themselves of the value of repentance. The austerity of the Lenten season was seen as similar to how people in the Old Testament fasted and repented in sackcloth and ashes (Esther 4:1-3; Jeremiah 6:26; Daniel 9:3).
However, over the centuries Lenten observances have developed a much more "sacramental" value. Many Catholics believe that giving something up for Lent is a way to attain God’s blessing. But the Bible teaches that grace cannot be earned; grace is “the gift of righteousness” (Romans 5:17). Also, Jesus taught that fasting should be done discreetly: “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen” (Matthew 6:16-18). Jesus’ command to “wash your face” seems to conflict with the practice of rubbing ashes on one’s face on Ash Wednesday.
Fasting can be a good thing, and God is pleased when we repent of sinful habits. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with setting aside some time to focus on Jesus’ death and resurrection. However, repenting of sin is something we should be doing every day of the year, not just for the 46 days of Lent.
If a Christian wishes to observe Lent, he or she is free to do so. The key is to focus on repenting of sin and consecrating oneself to God. Lent should not be a time of boasting of one’s sacrifice or trying to earn God’s favor or increasing His love.
God’s love for us could not be any greater than it already is.
Tuesday, February 15, 2022
Make Him Glad About Your Love
From ivory palaces stringed instruments make you glad. Psalm 45:8
And who are those who enjoy the privilege of making the Savior glad? His church—His people. But is it possible? He makes us glad, but how can we make Him glad? By our love. We think it so cold, so faint; and so, indeed, we must sorrowfully confess it to be, but it is very sweet to Christ.
Listen to such love expressed in Solomon’s song: “How beautiful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much better is your love than wine!” See, loving heart, this is how He delights in you. When you rest in Him you do not only receive, but you also give Him joy; when you gaze with love upon His beauty, you not only obtain comfort but impart delight.
Our praise also gives Him joy—not the song of the lips alone, but the melody of the heart’s deep gratitude. Our gifts are also very pleasant to Him; He loves to see us lay our time, our talents, our substance upon the altar, not for the value of what we give, but for the sake of the motive from which the gift springs. To Him the lowly offerings of His saints are more acceptable than the thousands of gold and silver.
Holiness is like frankincense and myrrh to Him. Forgive your enemy, and you make Christ glad; distribute of your substance to the poor, and He rejoices; be the means of saving souls, and you give Him to see of the travail of His soul; proclaim His Gospel, and you are a sweet savor unto Him; go among the ignorant and lift up the cross, and you have given Him honor. It is in your power even now to break the alabaster box and pour the precious oil of joy upon His head, like the woman in the Bible, whose testimony is still remembered wherever the Gospel is preached. Will you not join her in expressing your love and devotion for the Lord Jesus? And even in ivory palaces the songs of the saints will be heard.
Devotional material is taken from Morning and Evening, written by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright © 2003, Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers, Wheaton, IL 60187.
Saturday, August 15, 2020 Living Intentionally for Christ (Devotional) "Faith over Fear"
Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.
In the chaos of this world, believers are called to trust the Lord with the assurance that He can deliver us from all our fears. Trust does not mean believing every circumstance will turn out great. It means having confidence in the character and love of God even when hard times deliver crushing blows. It means faith. The Bible is filled with examples of faithful men and women who had great outcomes and terrible outcomes. Peter was miraculously delivered from prison, but John the Baptist was beheaded. Why? Only God knows. Even though circumstances may be horrible, a mature Christian knows that God is always worthy of our trust.
Look to the Cross. The Cross forever settled the question of whether God is absolutely committed to us. But the Cross also demonstrates that God, in His providence, can allow even His own Son to experience extraordinary pain to accomplish His broader purposes. Most of God's plan will not make sense until we are with Him in heaven. Until, then He offers us deliverance from our fears if we will seek Him. Our faith will overcome our fears.
Meditation Passage: Hebrews 11
Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.
In the chaos of this world, believers are called to trust the Lord with the assurance that He can deliver us from all our fears. Trust does not mean believing every circumstance will turn out great. It means having confidence in the character and love of God even when hard times deliver crushing blows. It means faith. The Bible is filled with examples of faithful men and women who had great outcomes and terrible outcomes. Peter was miraculously delivered from prison, but John the Baptist was beheaded. Why? Only God knows. Even though circumstances may be horrible, a mature Christian knows that God is always worthy of our trust.
Look to the Cross. The Cross forever settled the question of whether God is absolutely committed to us. But the Cross also demonstrates that God, in His providence, can allow even His own Son to experience extraordinary pain to accomplish His broader purposes. Most of God's plan will not make sense until we are with Him in heaven. Until, then He offers us deliverance from our fears if we will seek Him. Our faith will overcome our fears.
Meditation Passage: Hebrews 11
Saturday, June 7, 2020 Living Intentionally for Christ (Devotional) "Comfort in the Shadow of Fear"
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.
One of my sons once saw his shadow and asked me what it was. When I said, “a shadow” He then proceeded to ask what a shadow was. The best answer I could come up with was that a shadow is something solid that blocks the light. The shadows of this world are often things that prohibit us from seeing God’s light and truth. There will always be shadows; they are a result of sin and our brokenness. Jesus promised us we would have trouble (shadows) in this life.
We will always have struggles and pain due to our sin and the sin of the world, but we do not go through them alone. There will be times when that “shadow of death” and the “valleys” are so overwhelming but when we get through them (and we will in this life or in the eternal presence of God) we can look back and see the fingerprints of God working in those dark times.
The valley will be scary, but fear will not have the victory. We will have the victory because we are not walking alone; we are in the company of our loving Heavenly Father God.
Your valley could be Death. Sickness. Hurt. Broken relationships. Fear. Judgment. Loneliness. Many times, the valleys that we walk through are filled with anxiety. Anxiety is defined as feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about something with an uncertain outcome.
Even though our valleys are covered in darkness and may seem uncertain, God is still there. He will lead us if we tune our ear to His voice. We must commit to Him and persevere. If we choose to persevere, He will reveal the way to His light.
The rod and the staff are the shepherd’s instruments to lead us and protect us. The rod fights off the enemy and the staff leads us. As believers, we have a Good Shepherd in Jesus Christ. We must trust Him and rest in His presence in all circumstances. His awesome promise is that He will see us through the valleys and mountains in this life and in the life to come. This promise should comfort us, give us hope, and give us peace.
Meditation passage: Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.
One of my sons once saw his shadow and asked me what it was. When I said, “a shadow” He then proceeded to ask what a shadow was. The best answer I could come up with was that a shadow is something solid that blocks the light. The shadows of this world are often things that prohibit us from seeing God’s light and truth. There will always be shadows; they are a result of sin and our brokenness. Jesus promised us we would have trouble (shadows) in this life.
We will always have struggles and pain due to our sin and the sin of the world, but we do not go through them alone. There will be times when that “shadow of death” and the “valleys” are so overwhelming but when we get through them (and we will in this life or in the eternal presence of God) we can look back and see the fingerprints of God working in those dark times.
The valley will be scary, but fear will not have the victory. We will have the victory because we are not walking alone; we are in the company of our loving Heavenly Father God.
Your valley could be Death. Sickness. Hurt. Broken relationships. Fear. Judgment. Loneliness. Many times, the valleys that we walk through are filled with anxiety. Anxiety is defined as feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about something with an uncertain outcome.
Even though our valleys are covered in darkness and may seem uncertain, God is still there. He will lead us if we tune our ear to His voice. We must commit to Him and persevere. If we choose to persevere, He will reveal the way to His light.
The rod and the staff are the shepherd’s instruments to lead us and protect us. The rod fights off the enemy and the staff leads us. As believers, we have a Good Shepherd in Jesus Christ. We must trust Him and rest in His presence in all circumstances. His awesome promise is that He will see us through the valleys and mountains in this life and in the life to come. This promise should comfort us, give us hope, and give us peace.
Meditation passage: Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Saturday, April 25, 2020 Living Intentionally for Christ (Devotional) “Stop Fighting Your Circumstances”
Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God.
Yesterday something upset me and let my emotions rule my thoughts. I started to see everything going on right now as frustrating and even chaotic. I was angry and everyone around me was going to know that I was angry. I was angry at the thing that upset me, I was angry at COVID-19, I was angry that we are not meeting in person for church, I was angry that the government is controlling my movements, I was angry at (fill in the blank).While sitting in my home office I felt the pressure of life squeezing in on me.
Do you get the picture? “I” was angry. That dreaded word “I” and its brother, “me”.
My amazing wife, who is the first to know that I am angry, calmly (in her Kindergarten teacher voice) said, “you are not in control of a many things right now and that bothers you.” She did not say another word, and God filled in the rest. He reminded me that I am not in control, COVID-19 is not in control and the government is not in control. He is control.
To give me confirmation on this, God, as He does, showed me verse 10 of the 46th Psalm. “Be still, and know I am God.” I am not God, the government is not God, money is not God, my family is not God and the church is not God. There is only one true God. He is the creator and sustainer of life and the Father of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
In Psalm 46, the psalmist shows us a world in a state of chaos. When life feels out of control, the natural reaction can be to try to fight the chaos by working harder, doing more, or in my case, getting angry. But in this psalm, we have an invitation from God to stop fighting our circumstances and just be still. However, being still in difficult situations can seem like we are doing nothing and wasting time.
In situations where you feel as if the water is rising over your head, being still before the Lord is often the best thing to do. In other scriptures God declares that He is our refuge, our ever-present help in times of trouble, and that He is with us.
When we are still before the Lord, we are able to remind ourselves that He is God and we are not. And we receive the peace that only He can give us. So next time you are feeling overwhelmed or angry, slow down and look to the Lord. When life feels out of control, instead of trying to fight the chaos and your circumstances, start by just being still.
Meditation passage: Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
10 “Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God.
Yesterday something upset me and let my emotions rule my thoughts. I started to see everything going on right now as frustrating and even chaotic. I was angry and everyone around me was going to know that I was angry. I was angry at the thing that upset me, I was angry at COVID-19, I was angry that we are not meeting in person for church, I was angry that the government is controlling my movements, I was angry at (fill in the blank).While sitting in my home office I felt the pressure of life squeezing in on me.
Do you get the picture? “I” was angry. That dreaded word “I” and its brother, “me”.
My amazing wife, who is the first to know that I am angry, calmly (in her Kindergarten teacher voice) said, “you are not in control of a many things right now and that bothers you.” She did not say another word, and God filled in the rest. He reminded me that I am not in control, COVID-19 is not in control and the government is not in control. He is control.
To give me confirmation on this, God, as He does, showed me verse 10 of the 46th Psalm. “Be still, and know I am God.” I am not God, the government is not God, money is not God, my family is not God and the church is not God. There is only one true God. He is the creator and sustainer of life and the Father of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
In Psalm 46, the psalmist shows us a world in a state of chaos. When life feels out of control, the natural reaction can be to try to fight the chaos by working harder, doing more, or in my case, getting angry. But in this psalm, we have an invitation from God to stop fighting our circumstances and just be still. However, being still in difficult situations can seem like we are doing nothing and wasting time.
In situations where you feel as if the water is rising over your head, being still before the Lord is often the best thing to do. In other scriptures God declares that He is our refuge, our ever-present help in times of trouble, and that He is with us.
When we are still before the Lord, we are able to remind ourselves that He is God and we are not. And we receive the peace that only He can give us. So next time you are feeling overwhelmed or angry, slow down and look to the Lord. When life feels out of control, instead of trying to fight the chaos and your circumstances, start by just being still.
Meditation passage: Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
10 “Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Saturday, April 11, 2020 Living Intentionally for Christ (Devotional)
James 5:7 ESV Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord.
Today is “Silent Saturday”. We do not normally talk much about the day between Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. God was silent, Jesus was silent, the disciples, Jesus’ family and the religious leaders were in shock, but God was still working. He never stops working.
There are no passages in the Bible to read about Silent Saturday. We know a lot about Friday and Sunday, but so little about Saturday. Jesus’ body lies silent and dormant in the tomb. God is still working. He never stops working.
Silent Saturday actually has a lot to say to us. We are “sheltering-in-place” and struggling with uncertainty and even doubt. Some have lost loved ones to the virus and to other causes. Some have loved ones fighting cancer. Some have lost jobs and retirement income. Some have fears that they never had before. Some have loved ones they can not be with on Easter. Some have marriages and other relationships that are failing. Some have weddings and funerals that are postponed or cancelled. Some wonder if God is there and, if so, why is He not listening. God is still working. He never stops working.
What are we supposed to do on our Silent Saturdays? Jesus, as always, is our example. Stay still. Stay silent. Stay in prayer. Stay trusting God. Jesus knew He would be raised on Sunday. He knew that for every Friday there is a Sunday. Rely on the promise that God “will never leave us nor forsake us”. Trust His timing. Know He will answer your prayers. Know that “God so loved the world (YOU) that He GAVE His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life”. Trust Jesus for salvation. Trust the empty tomb. God is still working. He never stops working.
Meditation passage: Romans 8:28 ESV And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
James 5:7 ESV Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord.
Today is “Silent Saturday”. We do not normally talk much about the day between Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. God was silent, Jesus was silent, the disciples, Jesus’ family and the religious leaders were in shock, but God was still working. He never stops working.
There are no passages in the Bible to read about Silent Saturday. We know a lot about Friday and Sunday, but so little about Saturday. Jesus’ body lies silent and dormant in the tomb. God is still working. He never stops working.
Silent Saturday actually has a lot to say to us. We are “sheltering-in-place” and struggling with uncertainty and even doubt. Some have lost loved ones to the virus and to other causes. Some have loved ones fighting cancer. Some have lost jobs and retirement income. Some have fears that they never had before. Some have loved ones they can not be with on Easter. Some have marriages and other relationships that are failing. Some have weddings and funerals that are postponed or cancelled. Some wonder if God is there and, if so, why is He not listening. God is still working. He never stops working.
What are we supposed to do on our Silent Saturdays? Jesus, as always, is our example. Stay still. Stay silent. Stay in prayer. Stay trusting God. Jesus knew He would be raised on Sunday. He knew that for every Friday there is a Sunday. Rely on the promise that God “will never leave us nor forsake us”. Trust His timing. Know He will answer your prayers. Know that “God so loved the world (YOU) that He GAVE His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life”. Trust Jesus for salvation. Trust the empty tomb. God is still working. He never stops working.
Meditation passage: Romans 8:28 ESV And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Thursday, January 16, 2020
Welcome to 2020, not only a new year, but a new decade! We are starting the new year by studying the Sermon on the Mount. My theme word for 2020 is "intentional" as was alluding to in my last post. Mainly, I am encouraging my church family and everyone to live an intentional life for Jesus Christ. If you cannot join us on Sundays check out my messages online on this website. Together we will learn and practice intentional Christian living as we study the greatest sermon preached by the greatest preacher.
Our church had its annual meeting last night and I am encouraged for 2020 based on the amazing 2019 that FAC experienced! I am surrounded by strong leadership and devoted followers of Christ. Our church experienced growth in numbers, but even greater, in community outreach and service. Our new Helping Hands Ministry is focused on meeting the needs of individuals in our community in a number of ways. Our continuing ministries such as our Food Pantry, Sunday School, Kid's Church, Jsquad Youth Group, Vacation Bible School, Community Bible Study, and other community outreach programs will serve Grover and the surrounding communities in an even greater way in 2020.
Join us as we grow in Christ and go out into the world around us sharing the love and good news of Jesus Christ!
Welcome to 2020, not only a new year, but a new decade! We are starting the new year by studying the Sermon on the Mount. My theme word for 2020 is "intentional" as was alluding to in my last post. Mainly, I am encouraging my church family and everyone to live an intentional life for Jesus Christ. If you cannot join us on Sundays check out my messages online on this website. Together we will learn and practice intentional Christian living as we study the greatest sermon preached by the greatest preacher.
Our church had its annual meeting last night and I am encouraged for 2020 based on the amazing 2019 that FAC experienced! I am surrounded by strong leadership and devoted followers of Christ. Our church experienced growth in numbers, but even greater, in community outreach and service. Our new Helping Hands Ministry is focused on meeting the needs of individuals in our community in a number of ways. Our continuing ministries such as our Food Pantry, Sunday School, Kid's Church, Jsquad Youth Group, Vacation Bible School, Community Bible Study, and other community outreach programs will serve Grover and the surrounding communities in an even greater way in 2020.
Join us as we grow in Christ and go out into the world around us sharing the love and good news of Jesus Christ!
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Over a year has gone by since I posted anything on this page...I need to be more "intentional" as that seems to be a theme running through my life in this new season. I have walked away from my secular job to focus on the church and ministry. I am being more intentional in giving the first fruits of my time, talents and tithe to God. I am being more intentional in reestablishing friendships that I let slip over the past few years through the excuse of busyness. I am being more intentional in leading my family spiritually.
Today is my mother's birthday...she wouldn't appreciate me telling you how old she is...what I will tell you is that she always set the example of loving and serving others. I am sure her example was and is Jesus. I will share a bit of today's devotional from David Jeremiah as it seem to fit into the themes of intentionality and loving and serving others. I am in awe of those who answer the call to oversees missions, but our greatest mission field is right in front of us...our families and our community.
Being a servant of God doesn’t necessarily mean going to a mission field, but in seeing a mission field around you and noticing the needs of others. The Bible says, “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18).
The call to love is not so much a call to a certain state of feeling as it is to a quality of action. R. C. Sproul
Over a year has gone by since I posted anything on this page...I need to be more "intentional" as that seems to be a theme running through my life in this new season. I have walked away from my secular job to focus on the church and ministry. I am being more intentional in giving the first fruits of my time, talents and tithe to God. I am being more intentional in reestablishing friendships that I let slip over the past few years through the excuse of busyness. I am being more intentional in leading my family spiritually.
Today is my mother's birthday...she wouldn't appreciate me telling you how old she is...what I will tell you is that she always set the example of loving and serving others. I am sure her example was and is Jesus. I will share a bit of today's devotional from David Jeremiah as it seem to fit into the themes of intentionality and loving and serving others. I am in awe of those who answer the call to oversees missions, but our greatest mission field is right in front of us...our families and our community.
Being a servant of God doesn’t necessarily mean going to a mission field, but in seeing a mission field around you and noticing the needs of others. The Bible says, “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18).
The call to love is not so much a call to a certain state of feeling as it is to a quality of action. R. C. Sproul
Saturday, October 5, 2018
It has been some time since I posted to this page. It has been a busy summer, but as the weather turns colder and as we are in the midst of a wonderful video study of Daniel with Pete Briscoe, my thoughts turn to God's sovereignty...He is in control no matter our circumstances, no matter who is leading our country, and no matter what Satan wants us to believe. To quote Pastor Briscoe from last week's video, "the short-term (temporary) success of the godless is still part of God's master plan."
When we see unsaved, unrepentant people seem to do well and when we see back-slidden Christians "win" we are tempted to question God.
God had a plan since before time and His plan is Jesus! God uses anyone and anything for His purpose. Our "job" is to trust Him, honor Him and be faithful no matter what is going on around us.
As Pastor Briscoe also says, "rest in God's sovereignty." Rest in Jesus.
It has been some time since I posted to this page. It has been a busy summer, but as the weather turns colder and as we are in the midst of a wonderful video study of Daniel with Pete Briscoe, my thoughts turn to God's sovereignty...He is in control no matter our circumstances, no matter who is leading our country, and no matter what Satan wants us to believe. To quote Pastor Briscoe from last week's video, "the short-term (temporary) success of the godless is still part of God's master plan."
When we see unsaved, unrepentant people seem to do well and when we see back-slidden Christians "win" we are tempted to question God.
God had a plan since before time and His plan is Jesus! God uses anyone and anything for His purpose. Our "job" is to trust Him, honor Him and be faithful no matter what is going on around us.
As Pastor Briscoe also says, "rest in God's sovereignty." Rest in Jesus.
Saturday, June 10, 2018
The Hope and Anchor of our Souls: Jesus Christ
Hebrews 6:19a "This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast..."
We are hearing so much about suicide in our society today. The world is searching for hope in fame, money, power, control, possessions, sexual relationships outside of marriage, etc., etc. True Christians know that our hope is Christ and Christ alone. Seek out the lonely and the depressed...seek out friends, family and acquaintances and wrap your arms around them literally and figuratively. Gently and kindly tell them where your hope comes from and that God loves them when it seems that no one else does. Invest in their life...listen...love and share the good news of Christ with them.
The Hope and Anchor of our Souls: Jesus Christ
Hebrews 6:19a "This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast..."
We are hearing so much about suicide in our society today. The world is searching for hope in fame, money, power, control, possessions, sexual relationships outside of marriage, etc., etc. True Christians know that our hope is Christ and Christ alone. Seek out the lonely and the depressed...seek out friends, family and acquaintances and wrap your arms around them literally and figuratively. Gently and kindly tell them where your hope comes from and that God loves them when it seems that no one else does. Invest in their life...listen...love and share the good news of Christ with them.
Saturday, May 5, 2018
The Church: God's Design by Charles Stanley
Hebrews 10:23-25
"When you hear the word "church," do you picture a little white building full of smiling people in fancy clothes? As lovely as that image may be, God's design for church is unrelated to it. He created the church to be a unified fellowship of believers who encourage each other and carry out His ministry to the world.
The Bible clearly defines the following as ministries of the church: worshiping the living God, instructing and edifying believers, making disciples of all nations, and serving the needy. Unless the leadership is careful, however, these purposes can all too easily get out of balance, with the unfortunate result that the body ends up malnourished. For example, a church with too heavy an emphasis on praise might become introverted. Congregations that overemphasize teaching could lose their joy, and those that evangelize to the neglect of the other areas could miss out on great faith.
Because of sin and human imperfection, we do not experience church as it was originally intended. Instead, there's a tendency to overstress certain ministry areas. What's more, divisive arguments--many of which concern minor issues, such as music preferences--too often destroy unity. Greed, pride, selfishness, and gossip can also tear a congregation apart.
Since they're composed of imperfect people, churches will be imperfect too. Though expecting anything else leads to disappointment, we should nonetheless strive for God's original design, continually measuring ourselves against Scripture and correcting course to realign with His purpose."
Pastor Todd's comments:
We, the living, breathing human creations of Almighty God, are the church. Not the building, not the music, not the chairs, etc., etc.
We must focus on gathering every Sunday to praise and worship our Heavenly Father and to encourage each other to become more like Jesus Christ. We must put aside the excuses of busyness, tiredness, work, recreation, the weather, to do lists, and whatever it is that keeps us from gathering for a couple of hours on Sunday morning. If FAC is your church home or if you are considering it to be your church home, then come home to your family each week at 10:30am in our little white building to honor our Heavenly Father.
Love In-Christ,
Pastor Todd
The Church: God's Design by Charles Stanley
Hebrews 10:23-25
"When you hear the word "church," do you picture a little white building full of smiling people in fancy clothes? As lovely as that image may be, God's design for church is unrelated to it. He created the church to be a unified fellowship of believers who encourage each other and carry out His ministry to the world.
The Bible clearly defines the following as ministries of the church: worshiping the living God, instructing and edifying believers, making disciples of all nations, and serving the needy. Unless the leadership is careful, however, these purposes can all too easily get out of balance, with the unfortunate result that the body ends up malnourished. For example, a church with too heavy an emphasis on praise might become introverted. Congregations that overemphasize teaching could lose their joy, and those that evangelize to the neglect of the other areas could miss out on great faith.
Because of sin and human imperfection, we do not experience church as it was originally intended. Instead, there's a tendency to overstress certain ministry areas. What's more, divisive arguments--many of which concern minor issues, such as music preferences--too often destroy unity. Greed, pride, selfishness, and gossip can also tear a congregation apart.
Since they're composed of imperfect people, churches will be imperfect too. Though expecting anything else leads to disappointment, we should nonetheless strive for God's original design, continually measuring ourselves against Scripture and correcting course to realign with His purpose."
Pastor Todd's comments:
We, the living, breathing human creations of Almighty God, are the church. Not the building, not the music, not the chairs, etc., etc.
We must focus on gathering every Sunday to praise and worship our Heavenly Father and to encourage each other to become more like Jesus Christ. We must put aside the excuses of busyness, tiredness, work, recreation, the weather, to do lists, and whatever it is that keeps us from gathering for a couple of hours on Sunday morning. If FAC is your church home or if you are considering it to be your church home, then come home to your family each week at 10:30am in our little white building to honor our Heavenly Father.
Love In-Christ,
Pastor Todd