The Secret Garden

In the media, there is a popular commercial that asks the question, "what's in your wallet?" Therefore, may I propose a question for each of us to ponder, "what's in our secret garden?"

Stay tuned because it's a message we all need to hear.  

blessings!

Kathy

Lessons From A Dryer

Ah . . . perhaps you think that I have taken leave of my senses when you read the title of my posting, I have not. For the past two weeks we have been without a dryer. The appliance person who came to repair it was not the most honest person neither was the company he represented. Along with our experience, we took a loss of funds from our family budget which disturbed us greatly especially during the Christmas season.

Yet I can rejoice that all of this is working for our own good. You ask, "how?" So glad you asked. A couple of factors come immediately to my mind. First our dryer vent system was too long and was causing the lint to become trapped. Secondly, it could have created a dryer fire. Indeed we consider this a major PRAISE!

Most importantly God used dear brothers and sisters in Christ to bless and encourage us as well as strangers. One family came by the first Thursday evening of our dilemma to pick up 3 baskets of laundry to dry. Then they graciously delivered the laundry back to us the following night. Mind you, the weather that evening was wet and cold, but still they went out of their way to insure we had our laundry back.

Last Saturday, the second family came over and made some minor adjustments to our dryer and wah-lah it worked long enough for me to dry everything that needed to be dried. Then it stopped. When I called back to this particular family, they shared that perhaps it is indeed the motor and it's best to purchase a new machine. My friend said to me, "at least you now have resolution that you have worked through all the options and now have closure." Indeed she was right.

When we put everything into perspective, Rob and I have been married almost 22 years and have never had to buy a new dryer as a couple. I purchased the first dryer the year before we married back in 1985 and it stopped working in 2003. We received 18 years of excellent service. Then when we moved to Fredericksburg, a dear family at church gave us their extra dryer which has lasted for 4 years. The Lord has provided every step of the way and for that we can rejoice and rest in Him.

The Israelites often reflected back on how God worked in the past, the present and the future. How many times when circumstances do not go the way we want them to go, we either panic or get stressed. I must confess that at the beginning of this situation, I was not a happy camper. However, the Lord has given me the strength to look at it through different eyes and now see it as an adventure and an opportunity to trust Him.

Thursday evening, we went to Lowe's and purchased our new one. This Sunday afternoon, it will be delivered. A funny or perhaps to some an insignificant fun fact, we were able to use the $25 gift card from Lowe's that Rob won at his company's Christmas party. Although not a large amount, but it was nice to be able to apply the card to a major purchase.

Some final thoughts are, God has given us the body of Christ to encourage, strengthen, pray for one another and to help one another. He did not intend for us to go it "alone." We all have various gifts and abilities and it is God's Will that we put them into action both inside the body of Christ and outside.

My challenge to each of us, what do we have in our hands or possession that we can use to bless others? Is our physical vision and spiritual vision in check whereby we can look for the daily blessings God sends our way? The lessons of life come in various ways. Are we ready to receive them? It does not matter if we understand them.

Here's a familiar passage that my late Mom prayed over me throughout my life and now I share this with our sweet Christine and each of you.

In Jeremiah 29:11-13, we read the following from the Amplified Bible.

(11) For I know the thoughts, and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.

(12) Then you will call upon Me, and you will come and pray to Me, and I will hear and heed you.

(13) Then you will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me [as a vital necessity] and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. [Deut. 4:29-30].

God wants us to seek Him as our vital necessity for living not just when we get in a crunch or in difficulty.

What lessons are you learning today?

Christmas with a "C"

Check out the Christmas with a "C" video. This is COOOL!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAckfn8yiAQ

JESUS is God's Gift To the World!

Merry Christmas!

Kathy, Rob & Christine

Your Christmas Season: Burdens or Joys?

What will occupy you most this Christmas season: burdens or Joys?

What a profound question! I wish that it was original but it is not. In one of my advent type books that my heart friend Leigh gave four Christmas ago, this question leaped off the page. It comes from the book, How Great Our Joy ~ Family Memories & Meditations for Christmas, page 9.

How will yours and my Christmas be different this year? Will we succumb to the world's vision of Christmas? Or will we ask the Lord Jesus to renew us in our hearts, minds and yes pocketbooks this year?

Each year is new as each day is fresh and new. So whatever, we may have encountered in our past Christmas celebrations, we can start fresh right now, this very moment. We do not have to allow the enemy to paralyze us or to entrap us. Take time to read in Romans 8 about how we are positionally in Christ. Yet we forget how important the phrase, "In," becomes when placed next to Christ.

I do not want to allow the busyness of Christmas to so overtake me that I truly miss what Christmas is all about. Do not allow any spiritual pride to well up inside of you that you think, "oh that will not happen to me." That is pure arrogance because I believe with all my heart and being that this particular time of the year, the enemy and his legions of demons work overtime to distract, to disturb, to discourage and to detour believers in Christ. What we can do is to deliberately prepare ourselves for this battle and yes, it is a battle.

There are several ways, our family prepares our hearts for this time of the year. Early, we begin by placing our Christmas books in baskets throughout our home. Christine has many Christmas books which we have purchased over the years. In fact, each year, we buy one or two to add to her collection. In her room, we place them in a large basket and each night we read one to her. Sometimes, we read them during the day as well. It is something she looks forward to each year.

For Rob and myself, we place our books that deal especially with the Advent themes and have them readily available so as to draw our attention to the Savior. Each year, I take a particular book and read through it each day during the month of December. So as not to allow the list of these books to be overlooked within this text, I will list them in another posting. Some of still in print while some are not.

Just recently, I found one at the Family Christian Bookstore entitled, "The Experience of Christmas - Family Devotions and Activities to Prepare the Heart." It is by Lee Warren and cost $3.97. You can find it in the Bargain Section. This book is geared for family devotional times during the Christmas season. There are some that have that focus while there are some that can be used for personal reflection and meditation. As to what book the Lord will have me use this year, I do not know. It would be easy to use what I have used in the past. And God very well might direct me that way. However, I do not want to allow myself to be in a rut and not be able to see and know what God wants me to learn this Advent season.

Of course, we decorate our home and our trees. Yes, trees. Christine has a tree in her room with "Adornaments," on it. We have other small trees throughout the house. One thing we did when Rob was pastoring. We had a Christmas Open House. We placed a table top Christmas tree near the front foyer. As folks dropped in, they wrote on cards blessings that had experienced during the year and placed them on our "Blessing Tree." It is fun to read those cards now because some of the folks have gone on to Heaven. What a treasure we have in Christ and in those memories.

In one of the family magazines from LifeWay, there was a suggestion as to how to utilize Christmas Cards. One family placed them in their "Prayer Box." After Christmas they prayed for the families they had received Christmas cards from. We have done something similar.

Last year, one of the neatest blessings came when we had another family over for Christmas evening. After the meal, we gathered around the piano and sang Christmas Carols. I encourage all families to find a Christmas Carol songbook or a hymnals so as to be able to sing these wonderful songs together or even individually. What a wonderful addition to your personal time with the Lord. Your Bible, journal, prayer list and hymnal.

Tonight, we began listening to Christmas CDs in our car. We take out our regular CDs that we keep in the car and replace them with Christmas ones. Thereby, having a myriad of songs to listen to and sing along with. This too keeps us more focused.

Some years, we did not have a lot of money to buy presents so we sent out several Christmas cards. In our culture, it seems that some years, Christmas cards are not sent out as much. Perhaps with computer cards and sometimes our culture becoming more impersonal, this is diminishing. The reasons are many but one I do believe is that we allow ourselves to be "TOO BUSY."

My challenge to each of us is not to allow "Christ" to be squeezed out of Christmas. That we Christmas season would be joyous and not burdensome. It will not happen by chance or by osmosis. It will happen when we deliberately and intentionally seek the Holy Spirit to harness our hearts, minds, and eyes whereby seeing only JESUS!

Determine to prepare your heart for Christ. Even if it means doing less or not attending too many Christmas parties. The old adage, "less is best," is true. Do not let others hear your whine during the Christmas season. Oftentimes, when we whining, we are over scheduled and overbooked thus making it virtually impossible to do what we had initially set out. Ouch! Tis true and you what I'm talking about.

Let this be our motto this Christmas, "You will guard him and keep in in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You. So trust in the Lord (commit yourself to Him, lean on Him, hope confidently in Him) forever; for the Lord God is an everlasting Rock [the Rock of Ages]. Isaiah 26:3-4 (Amplified Bible)

Joy to the World! Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room!

Jesus is God's Gift to the World!

When All Fails . . . Read The Directions!

In our technological day and age, we oftentimes find ourselves inpatient and in a tremendous rush to accomplish our goals we have established our lives. Even to the point, we rush rough-shod over others.

Consider this example, recently we had invited a dear friend over for lunch and I needed to prepare 2 desserts. As I read the directions for the pound cake, it clearly stated, that if you loaf pan is too small, please use two. Otherwise, it will overflow. Well because I needed to prepare the other dessert, I chose to overlook that instructions and wah-lah, it overflowed. Each of us are are familiar with that lovely smell of burnt batter. Yummy! I think not. All because I was in too big of a hurry and decided to do it my way.

You would think that I would learn my lesson . . . quite the opposite my friends. I found an Apple Gingerbread Recipe from the apple cookbook our land lady in Schenectady, New York had given us. I knew I had all the ingredients so I begin to follow the directions. So I thought until I rechecked the amount of molasses that should be measured for the recipe. In clear print it stated, "2/3 cups molasses." Instead, I used the 1/2 cup instead of the 1/3. If it were dry measurements, it might be a little easier. Needless to say, the volume of sticky molasses made it interesting at best. I could blame it on my age or not having my glasses on. Bottom line, I was trying to do too many things at once and was in a big hurry.

Likewise, dear ones, we do this so often in our relationship with our Heavenly Father. We go to our local Christian bookstore or on line to see what is the most popular book or books that folks are reading. My late Dad always admonished me when he stated, "beware when all men speak well of you." If your criteria is because it's the most favorite author or book to read; then your rationale is not a true test for discernment. When we neglect to discern, we put ourselves at risk to be tricked by the enemy and those who are trying to re-think the Gospel. God's Word never changes and if we change one word, we water down the message and thus we have ERROR.

Think back to our days in school whenever the teacher and/or instructor gave a "true or false," test. If one portion of the statement was false, then the whole statement is false.

Paul writes in this in 1 Corinthians 1:11-16 ~
~ 11 For what person perceives (knows and understands) what passes through a man's thoughts except the man's own spirit within him? Just so no one discerns (comes to know and comprehend) the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.

~ 12 Now we have not received the spirit [that belongs to] the world, but the [Holy] Spirit Who is from God, [given to us] that we might realize and comprehend and appreciate the gifts [of divine favor and blessing so freely and lavishly] bestowed on us by God.

~ 13 And we are setting these truths forth in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the [Holy] Spirit, combining and interpreting spiritual truths with spiritual language [to those who possess the Holy Spirit].

~14 But the natural, nonspiritual man does not accept or welcome or admit into his heart the gifts and teachings and revelations of the Spirit of God, for they are folly (meaningless nonsense) to him; and he is incapable of knowing them [of progressively recognizing, understanding, and becoming better acquainted with them] because they are spiritually discerned and estimated and appreciated.

~ 15 But the spiritual man tries all things [he examines, investigates, inquires into, questions, and discerns all things], yet is himself to be put on trial and judged by no one [he can read the meaning of everything, but no one can properly discern or appraise or get an insight into him].

~ 16 For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) of the Lord so as to guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge? But we have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart. [Isa 40:13.] AMP

The veil was torn and we can go boldly to the Father through Jesus Christ. We do not need a professional to interpret Scripture. We can read and understand the Scriptures. The reality is that we substitute devotional readings for actual Bible study. Oh that we would have a new joy for God's Word and to truly hunger after His righteousness. Rather than just going for what is newest and best thing with "popular Christianity." Please read along with me from 2 Timothy 3:16-17,

~ 16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action),

~ 17 So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work. AMP

Where the problem lies is that we have become "spiritually unfit and just plain lazy," in the Christian disciplines. Where Scripture is clear, we either water it down or have "selective hearing as well as selective reading." Martin Luther believed the person in the pew could understand God's Word. What we need is not more trendy, popular, ear-tickling literature but for Christians to humble themselves before our Holy Father and repent and "read the instructions!"

Consider these words pinned by the Apostle Paul from 2 Timothy 2:15-16.
~ 15 Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth. AMP

Does God's Word change? Absolutely Not! Can we improve on it? Certainly Not! I think in the quest to be "producers," we have missed the mark immensely. In John 12:32, Jesus said, "And I, if and when I am lifted up from the earth [on the cross], will draw and attract all men [Gentiles as well as Jews] to Myself." AMP

We often hear folks in churches say, "it's not about me, but about Him." Really? If it was truly about Him and what Scripture actually says, our attitudes and mindsets would be totally different. God is a personal God but He is not some one's "best friend, chummy type person." I want to crawl out of my skin whenever I hear God reverenced with such informality.

When I think of the old hymn, "I Stand Amazed in the Presence." My head is not lifted up nor my ego, in fact, the song causes me to ponder my sinfulness and just how holy my God. Back during my seminary years (1980-1983), Dr. William Reynolds gave us caution to some of the lyrics of Christian music. That some songs have become "me focus" instead of "God focused." What sage wisdom he gave us.

My closing thoughts are, are you living your life in and for Christ? Or are you checking to see what the latest "Christian or most popular "buzz words" are? Please keep in mind that whatever is truly done for Christ, His way, will last. Our Lord does not need a "new improved Gospel," or "Gospel-Lite." He needs godly men and women to get serious about reading, heading, obeying God's Word. I do believe we have lost our spiritual GPS and accept just any kind of direction just as long as it has "Christian" attached to it.

Remember, the road is narrow and few there be that find it. And yes, you might at times feel alone but as a blood bought believer, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Do not allow the enemy to trick you.

To conclude, let's read Ephesians 6:10-24. I encourage you not to glibly read over it and perhaps say out loud, "I already know this passage or have read it." God Word is a two edged sword, beware my friend whenever giving into pride or "spiritual elitism." Haughtiness is not one of the fruit of the spirit. Christ has allowed me some field experience in this area. Some lessons have been learned the hard way while others have been a little easier. I think of Pastor Maurice Timberlake, he was indeed a man of true humility. Guess what? Never did we hear him state how humble he was. I believe once we say we're humble, then we are not.

~ 10 In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [be empowered through your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides].

~ 11 Put on God's whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.

~ 12 For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere.

~ 13 Therefore put on God's complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place].

~ 14 Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God,

~ 15 And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace. [Isa 52:7.]

~ 16 Lift up over all the [covering] shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked [one].

~ 17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.

~ 18 Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people).

~ 19 And [pray] also for me, that [freedom of] utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth to proclaim boldly the mystery of the good news (the Gospel),

~ 20 For which I am an ambassador in a coupling chain [in prison. Pray] that I may declare it boldly and courageously, as I ought to do.

~ 21 Now that you may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord [and His service], will tell you everything.

~ 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may console and cheer and encourage and strengthen your hearts.

~ 23 Peace be to the brethren, and love joined with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed one).

~ 24 Grace (God's undeserved favor) be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with undying and incorruptible [love]. Amen (so let it be). AMP

A "M & M" Advance

Oh yes . . . my favorites M & Ms! I like the peanut kind especially. You might be thinking . . . has Kathy lost her mind or is she having some special craving for candy? Neither. What I am talking about is a "Mom and Me Advance." We are calling it "an advance" because we are not retreating, but helping our daughter transition into "Christian Adolescence." We are scheduling some uninterrupted time, whereby we can deviate from our regular routine; engage her in dialog and give attention to her needs and answer her questions.

Earlier, we had thought about driving over to Tennessee to attend a special event for Moms and Daughters. It would have been wonderful, but the timing was not compatible with our family schedule and too far to drive for a half day event. Meanwhile, Rob and I have been praying for several months about a time for Christine and I to get away for some special "Mom and Me," time.

At first, I thought I would wait until our weekend was completed before sharing this idea with you. Instead, I want to be transparent and share this journey with each of you. You know how it is when the Lord answers your heart cries, you want to share it with others. In sharing this, neither Rob or myself believe there IS NOT not an "one size fits all," plan. This is what we are planning to do and perhaps God will use it as a spring board for your family. If that is the case, we rejoice in the Lord.

Back in June, we attended the HEAV Convention. During our jaunt through the Curriculum Hall, we stopped at the "Daughter 4 God," booth. I had a delightful conversation with Joy Moore who wrote the book, "Lady Day, Letters to a Daughter About Becoming a Woman." As you can imagine, I felt like clicking my heels and doing the happy dance right there. One thing for sure, you either have already had these conversations with your "gents" or "ladies" or will in the not so near future. The key is to become equipped with accurately and biblically based information. Please keep in mind that each child is unique and how they assimilate information will vary.

The key is to know your child and to determine what works best for them and your family. Ask other parents who share the same "biblical worldview," what they did. We learn from one another, don't we? I am thankful for the godly ladies that God has brought my way my fifty years of living.

As we are planning for this weekend, is there a temptation to load up all the books we have on this subject and bring them? Yes. Would that overwhelm her? Indeed! My wise husband, Rob is giving leadership to this endeavor and is overseeing my planning time. Last night, he advised me to use the book, "Lady Day," because it is short enough and has just the right amount of information to use for our "M & M Advance." Ladies, are we not thankful for godly and wise husbands? I know Rob and I balance one another.

Perhaps you are like me, you know what happened to you during your transformation but you are in a quandary insofar as how to explain it to your daughter or daughters. I do not pretend to have all the answers or to know what is best because a lot of this is uncharted waters for me. Yet I am confident the Lord will provide because He gave us a daughter and promises to give us wisdom when we ask.

Moms, we must seize the moments to share accurately and biblically these wonderful days of "beautiful girlhood," with our daughters. If we do not, the world will. One only has to just watch TV, view the popular magazines at the checkout counter, watch current movies and go clothes shopping with your pre-teen or teen to see the decline in our culture. We are in the world, to be sure, but Scripture strongly exhorts us to be not of the world.

Do not love or cherish the world or the things
that are in the world.
If anyone loves the world,
love for the Father is not in him.
For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh
[craving for sensual gratification]
and the lust of the eyes
[greedy longings of the mind]
and the pride of life [assurance
in one's own resources
or in the stability of earthly things]
--these do not come from the Father
but are from the world [itself].
And the world passes away and disappears,
and with it the forbidden cravings
(the passionate desires, the lust) of it;
but he who does the will of God
and carries out His purposes
in his life abides (remains) forever.
1 John 2:15-17 (Amplified Bible)

We desire for our daughters to be modest and have a style of their own. I do not want Christine to dress is the Gothic type colors neither do I want her to have the "Little House on the Prairie" look. I desire balance and we are asking the Lord each step of the way to help us. Besides, He is interested in every area of our lives so why not ask Him to give specific directions. He will.

So back to the plans for our upcoming, "M & M Advance." Here are some ideas that we will be using.

* Reserve a hotel room for 1 to 2 days
* Send an invitation to Christine in the mail
* A definitive schedule but flexible enough to be enjoyable
* 11 letters from 11 godly ladies; placed in a decorative box for her to read
* Bible
* Book ~ "Lady Day," by Joy Moore
* Bags of M & Ms ~ theme prompt for the weekend
* Hair and skin care time; pampering time
* Bring healthy snacks; exercise time
* Schedule shopping time
* Devotional time and prayer time
* Conclude - worship service at one of our favorite churches
* Follow up - once home; make a special scrapbook to mark this event in her life and add to eat periodically; plus read some of the books I have listed under my sidebar "For Daughters & Moms."

So please pray along side Rob and myself as we put the final preparation for this special time for Christine and myself. Knowing that God has called us as a family to accurately, biblically train our daughter for Christ. We realize the days are passing too quickly and must redeem the time. We are confident that God will use this to bless our sweet Christine as well as myself. Likewise, we know that God will be able to use this to bless the lives of many Moms, Grandmothers and Aunts to help their daughters transition into "Christian Adolescence."

Charm and grace are deceptive, and beauty is vain
[because it is not lasting];
but a woman who reverently and
worshipfully fears the Lord,
she shall be praised!
Give her of the fruit of her hands,
and let her own works praise her
in the gates [of the city]! [Phil. 4:8].
Proverbs 31:30-31 (Amplified Bible)

Who Gives You Affirmation?

I daresay, we all enjoy having folks affirm and encourage us. What if the folks you desire to affirm and encourage you do not follow through or forget about you? Then where do you get your encouragement?

Scripture is clear in that our hope is in Christ alone and not in man.

In Psalm 34:4, in the Amplified Bible, we read "I sought (inquired of) the Lord and required Him [of necessity and on the authority of His Word], and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. [Psalm 73:25; Matthew 7:7.]"

Read this passage again, but slowly word by word and phrase by phrase. It is tempting to come to Scripture and read it fast and say, "Oh I have read this before or I know what it means." Let's try this when we come to Scripture, ask the Lord to allow you to look at it as if you are reading it for the very first time. I am certain that new joy will emerge and just overwhelm you.

That is how I felt when I read Psalm 34:4 this morning. I think we all inquire but do we require Him out of necessity and on the authority of His Word? Yes, no and sometimes might be our answers. He is all that we need and He is all sufficient.

What fears do you and I have that the Lord needs to deliver us from? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal those fear and ask Him specifically to deliver you from them.

Continuing on in Psalm 73:25, we read these encouraging words, "Whom have I in heaven but You? And I have no delight or desire on earth besides You." We may say it casually with our mouths but in our hearts, we know that we desire the approval of others. I know all too well that reality and it continues to be a painful struggle at times. I find myself disappointed in others and feeling so alone at times. Or feeling that folks like me for what I can do for them and not for who I am. Perhaps it may be true in some cases but I do believe many times, it's the enemy taunting me and discouraging me. Then again, I do believe some of the lessons the Lord teaches us are painful and if we persevere through them with Him, they will reap a harvest of joy and peace.

In Matthew 7:7, we read this, "Keep on asking and it will be given you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking [reverently] and [the door] will be opened to you."

A line from an old hymn states, "take it to the Lord in prayer." Corrie Ten Boom said, "whatever pit you are in, God is deeper still." Remember, whose you are and that you are "IN CHRIST."

Voddie Bauchman Jr, in his book, "Family Driven Faith - Doing What It Takes to Raise Sons and Daughters Who Walk With God," strongly encourages that families play Christian music that reminds us who we are and builds us up in the Lord. Plus it trains our minds to think on what Paul says, the whatsoevers in Philippians 4:8-9.

Guess what dear ones, "it won't happen by osmosis." It will take us deliberately turning our hearts, minds and wills to the Father.

Interesting note and perhaps not significant to anyone but myself. As I opened up my particular hymnal to prepare to type the words from the hymn, "The Solid Rock," guess what song is across the page from this wonderful hymn? "Jesus Loves Me!" What an incredible reality!

The Solid Rock

1. My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus' blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus' name.

Refrain
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand; All other ground is sinking sand,

All other ground is sinking sand.

2. When darkness seems to hide His face, I rest on His unchanging grace;

In ev'ry high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil.

Refrain

3. His oath, His covenant, His blood Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.

Refrain

4. When He shall come with trumpet sound, Oh, may I then in Him be found;

Dressed in His righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne.

Refrain

As I have shared my heart with you, the Lord has refreshed me, redirected my thoughts and reminded me that He indeed loves me and that He's trustworthy.

Finally, the picture that I have placed in this posting is one I took at Greenfield Assisted Living this summer. It serves as a reminder of the passage found in Matthew 6:28-29. Take the time to read it and you too will be encouraged as well.

Prescription For A Difficult Situation

Text: Psalm 37

A Personal Note ~ Throughout my Christian walk, God has blessed me with wonderful mentors who took the time to help me develop in Christ. This particular blog is a sample of one of the messages that our Associate Pastor at First Baptist Church, Houston, Texas preached during the time I was in seminary at Southwestern in Fort Worth, Texas. May the Lord use it to encourage each of you and as a gentle reminder of God's sufficiency in your lives.

Promise - Availability of our Savior to meet our needs. No matter how difficult the situation is, God cares and is available and yes, we will survive.

3 Positions for the Prescription

1. Prayer
2. Praise
3. Perseverance

7 Part Prescription to a Difficult Situation

1. Do not fret, verse 1
2. Trust in the Lord, verse 3
3. Feed on His faithfulness, verse 3
4. Delight yourself in the Lord, verse 4
5. Commit your way to the Lord, verse 5
6. Be still and rest in the Lord, verse 7
7. Cease from anger, verse 8

A Reminder - Through long-suffering, we learn to discover the heart of God.

Additional B-12 Passages That Compliment This Prescription

• Proverbs 12:25
• Proverbs 12:18-19
• Proverbs 4:13, 20-27
• Psalm 141:3-4
• I Peter 3:7

Key & a Must - Pray about every situation!

Questions To Ask Yourself?

1. What does God say?
   
   * Turn the other cheek; Matthew 5:39
   
   * Forgive 70 x 7; Matthew 18:21
   
   * Feed on Jesus; John 6:48-71
   
   
2. What would Jesus do?
   
   
3. What would you have me to do Jesus?

Always remember, we must be redemptive! We can't but Jesus CAN!

God is greater . . . Matthew 23:27; take a peek at Jesus' confrontation. He gets to the heart of the matter; thereby true change occurs.

Other supporting passages: Colossians 2:13 and Ephesians 4:32. Apart from the Lord Jesus Christ living in and through us, we will cave in any difficult situation. Sometimes, they occur because of self-affliction, at the hands of others or the Lord is allowing it to occur to strengthen our faith. Regardless how they come to each of us, we are to abide in Christ and trust Him to see us through.

Along with prayer, I have found immersing myself in God's Word is paramount. It is vital that we call to remembrances of God's faithfulness our pasts, presents and in the future. The enemy would deceive us and cause us to have a form of spiritual amnesia. Please take the time to read 2 Peter 1 where Peter reminds us of our calling and our position in Christ.

A final thought from John 16:33 from Jesus Himself, "I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]" (Amplified Bible)

Does that not encourage your hearts today dear ones? My heart is encouraged and strengthen in the Lord. May yours be also.

Red Light! Green Light!

How often do we run ahead of God because of our impatient spirit? At the close of August, the Lord gave me a pop quiz in trusting Him. We had received the flyer from A.C. Moore and I saw some cubed furniture that I immediately thought would be suitable for organizing Christine's school room. Christine and I drove over to the store to check them out and began to imagine how they would work in our home. That same afternoon, we took both cars thinking, we could place 2 in each car and wah-lah we would be on our way.

Needless to say, as we looked closer to the items, we observed they were not worth the purchase. Next we drove over to Good Wood and found similar items just a tad more expensive. Because we have 2 small cars, we were unable to fix 3 of the quad cubes into our car. We were able to fix the triple cube in and off we were to the races . . . so we thought.

Upon our arrival home, we it in our school room and began to put the books on it. My vision of what I thought would be the idea situation began to fade and I became frustrated. So Christine and I took it back to Good Wood. The salesman even suggested we stack the items. That was an excellent idea but not what we needed to do. The cashier refunded our money and we were back to square one.

Instead of just trusting God's timing, I began to become "cast down." We went on to church and our last night of gardening class was an absolute blast with the children. Normally I walk with my walking buddy but she was not available so that disappointed me a little. Later on I looked on line at http://www.craigslist.com/ North Virginia to see what I could find furniture wise for our school room. Would you believe it? I saw a posting for 2 Bookcases at $55 each from Fredericksburg. Yes, folks from our area post there all the time but until now, I had not seen a posting from here. I cut and pasted their sale number and inquired. I also started praying as well.

That Thursday morning, I received a reply stating the items were available but we would not be able to view them until Friday between 12:00 - 2:00. For some reason instead of trust resting in the Lord, I began to grow more anxious and just allowed the whole situation to overwhelm me. Lest you think, "why on earth would this bother you?" What was bothering me was the fact that I had all our school items in piles in our school room area as well as in the living room area. We live in a townhouse that has restricted space. I literally asked God out loud, "when will we get to have a place that is better suited for our needs?" I thought to myself, why do all my other friends have larger spaces for their school? Thus, my thoughts began to weigh me down and frustration and discouragement took up residency.

By the time Rob got home Thursday evening, I was a mess plus he had a very hard day. In fact, neither one of us got a lot a rest that night. We shared with one another Friday afternoon how we both were in prayer during that time. We did come to this conclusion that we were experiencing a spiritual attack on our family. If homeschooling was something we could do in our own strength, then we would not need our Heavenly Father.

Friday morning after Rob had gone to work, I literally got down on my face towards the east and poured out my heart to my Heavenly Father. It was if the Holy Spirit prompted my heart to pick up my devotional book, "Streams in the Desert 2," and read the reading for the day. It was about having an oasis. I did read it and the Lord used it to gently pull me out of my slump and set my feet on higher ground. He then prompted me to write "An Oasis Is Nearby" to the next posting to my blog. I do encourage you to take the time to read it.

Later on, we received an email from the family that was selling us the bookcases, stating "for $5.00 more, they would deliver it to our house." This does happen from what I have learned but normally it is "cash and carry." The email further stated, "you can come and see them at 1:00 or so." Well, Christine and I had planned to attend REACH's Back To School Party and I would have to either take her to the party and leave her or we would be late for the party altogether. God is good! The folks wrote back and shared that they did not want us to have to change our plans and we could look at the items at 11:30 instead.

Christine and I drove over to Chancellor Village and met up with the gentleman who was offering the bookcases. They were nicer than the picture on Craigs List and I agreed to purchase them. My Dad taught me to do things upfront and honestly so I immediately gave the gentleman the money plus an extra $5.00. He and I loaded up the truck. In fact, he treated me like his daughter and was so helpful and kind. We arrived at our place and just placed the bookcases in the hallway and then he left.

The Holy Spirit prompted me to look more closely at the bookcases. One was facing backwards to the wall and the other was facing frontwards. Guess what I saw stamped on the back of one bookcase? "Ethan Allen." I immediately called Rob and he shared the good news. He jokingly said, "what you like about them is that they match our piano and so forth." I said, no, what I like about them is the fact that they are made by Ethan Allen! By then I was flying high and so very excited how God supplied abundantly and beyond our needs.

Later on that week, I shared my bookcase story with one of our neighbors and shared that we were going to be selling an oak desk. He asked, "may I see that desk?" He dropped by to check it out and asked us to wait 2 weeks before selling it because he wanted it. So we agreed to do so. On his way out, he was sharing that his daughter needing a bookcase because of all her books were scattered about in their place. We had a bookcase that had been given us and it no longer fitted our needs so I helped him carry this bookcase to his house 2 doors down.

You see God does meet our needs in ways sometimes we may not even imagine and then He gives us an opportunity to meet the needs of others. This neighbor is now in the process of moving but we believe we have shared Jesus with Him in several tangible ways as well as verbally.

Before we went on vacation, he and I worked on the front yards together. I mowed and he weed-eated the yards. Recently the Lord impressed on my heart to continue to mow the front yards even if no one says thank you. In fact, the neighbor 3 doors down is moving and I shared with their daughter that we would be missing them because they have been excellent neighbors, she said, "so have you."

Bottom line, we are "Trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not to our own understanding and in all our ways acknowledge Him and He will make our paths straight." God's timing is always on time. It's us that are out of sync, not the Father.

My encouragement to each of us is to be still long enough to listen to the Father and to continue to immerse ourselves in His Word learning passages that speak of God's timing and His great provision. Let's not allow the enemy to control the "spiritual traffic signals" of our lives.

Let's turn our waiting on the Lord into resting in the Lord! What an excellent combination that is.

Getting Back To The Basics

We're familiar with the "3 R's . . . reading, writing and arithmetic." We go to the grocery store and we read on the label, "new and improved." We assume perhaps because it is new and it states, improved, that it is. Prices continue to climb in cereal, cracker and chip products, yet, the quantity is diminishing all the time. Take for example, I was at a local grocery store and picked up a package of Goldfish crackers. I thought, woe, this is much lighter than before. I read the label and it read, "6.6 ounces." So being the careful shopper that I am, I went over to the produce department and weighed it. The packaged weighed 5 ounces. Perhaps you have picked up a bag of chips only to discover it's full of air.

Likewise, the modern Christian church is advertising this and that, yet the content inside is diminishing and the Gospel message is unrecognizable in some churches. There is a lot of "rethinking" going around. It's okay to evaluate one's priorities and goals. I'm fine with that. What disturbs me to the core of my soul is that there seems to be a perversion of the Gospel. A sort of 'dumbing down the church.'

Rob and I have this devotional book, "The Morning Watch or Thoughts for the Quiet Hour" by Belle M. Brain. It is 110 years old but oh so relevant today. Please allow me to share what I read.

September 11 - Dwight L. Moody
"Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read. --- Isaiah 34:16

Hints about Bible Study
I have been wonderfully blessed in studying the Bible, by taking up one book at a time. I used to try to read the Bible through in a year. I would as soon read a dictionary that way now. Sometimes I want something to stir me up; others days I want something to comfort me. When you read right through, you don't get much comfort. It is a great deal better, if seems to me, to take up a book at a time.

Or take a character or a type. How many antetypes there were of Christ! --- Adam, Abel, Enoch, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and so on all through the Old Testament. Another good way is to take a subject. That's how we get grounded in the fundamental truths of the bible. Take "Repentance," for example. Read up everything you can find about repentance. Take time. Suppose you spend a month; you couldn't spend it better.

Let the Bible speak for itself. Don't listen to what this man and that man says about it, but study the Bible. And as Bishop Stevens used to say, "Don't study it with your little red lamp of Methodism, or your little blue light of Presbyterianism, or the light of the Episcopal Church, but just the light of Calvary." Come without prejudice, and say, "Whatever this book teaches I must receive." --- "TEN DAYS WITH MOODY."

I truly believe with all the available resources we have at our finger tips, we have become spiritually lazy. It is easier to opt for the most popular author's book study about the Bible rather than just dig into the Bible ourselves. There are software programs along with excellent Study Bibles that are available to help us actually study the Bible itself. It is assumed perhaps by leadership that the person in the pew is not smart enough to study God's Word for themselves. If they truly wanted a revolution of heart, mind and soul, then God's Word would be taught line upon line and precept upon precept.

One only has to take the time to read Paul's writings without any presuppositions to understand how the love of Christ compels us and propels us to tell others of Christ. We may have spiritual batteries inside but perhaps they are not in the right direction, thus no current is flowing. Man cannot energize us, only the power of the Holy Spirit to a heart and mind that is seeking Christ.

To say, "you must do this to be successful as a Christian," is absurd. I take my marching orders from the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. He's the author and finisher of my faith, not the most popular Christian guru.

So my challenge for all of us to is hide God's Word in our hearts that we might not sin against Him. To literally get ourselves immersed in God's Word that we know Him, not just things about Him. That we have a true honor and respect for our Creator. He's not our buddy. Yes, we can consider Him our best friend. But to bring Him down to us is lessening His Deity. He is our Abba Father for sure. Yet positionally He is still the Father and we, the child. I think what bothers me is how casually Jesus is sometimes referred to . . . as if He was one of our chums. He's Holy God Jehovah and we are to reverence Him with all our whole being.

Indeed let's get back to the basics. Whose boot camp are you in? Christ's or the latest trend in Christianity?

Announcing ~ A Special Tribute To My Mom Coming Soon!!!

The month of September is significant to our family for many reasons. One in particular is September 28 which holds two special meanings ~ it's Rob's and my anniversary and my Mom, George Ruth Pitt Brooks' birthday.

Many have shared with me that they are amazed as to my recollection of my Mom's sayings and her tremendous impact in and on my life. She has been in heaven now 22 years and the legacy continues. I believe the impact we leave on others has consequences in the present as well as in the future. Let's ask our Heaven Father to guide us in this crucial adventure.

I share this announcement in today's blog to let you know that my special tribute to my Mom is coming this moth of September. Before it can be posted, I will need to scan a picture of my Mom so I can input it within the text. Please pray for me as I prepare to share some of my reflections and experiences that I have in my personal treasure box. It will have it's teary eyed moments . . . even now as I'm giving this announcement my eyes are filled with tears. Less you think that all you need to have on hand with this blog is a box of tissues, don't worry, you will laugh as well.

Lately I've been very weepy. It may be hormonal as well since I'm in the joy of menopause. If you're there, you can say, "Amen sister!" If not, you'll be there one day. We'll be there to help. Smile!

Bottom line we all have "A Legacy of Love," to give to our husband and our children as well as to those around us. A dear friend reminded me this morning that God put Christine and I together and we are uniquely made for one another. If you're having one of those moments . . . run into the loving arms of the Father. He's waiting and will provide extraordinary comfort, wisdom and grace.

It's God who begins the work of salvation in our lives and He will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus.

A closing thought, some of my friends have dubbed me the "font queen." I'm honored. Interesting note, the name of the font for this particular posting and when I send out the actual tribute will be "Georgia." Cool, aye! Mom would get a big chuckle out this. She would be so proud. Hee! Hee!

Playing Favorites

Do our actions and attitudes affect others? Or do that infect others? Let me paint a familiar picture, we're at a function, our personal GPS kick into action and we're off to hang with those we know or feel comfortable with. Never realizing that we perhaps bypassed several incredible folks in the process. It's human nature to want to stay within our comfort zones.

My Mom taught me by word and deed that no one is better than me and I am not better than others. I remember one time Mom sharing that she treated the cleaning folks who took care of her office with the same respect she gave to the president of her company. God is not a respecter of persons so why are we?

First and foremost, our sinful nature kicks in and we make poor choices. Sometimes intentionally and sometimes just out of habit. Regardless, the outcome still remains the same. I read in 1 Corinthians 12 how the body of Christ is suppose to function together. Just consider our knees, they are not the most desirable body part but should they weaken, we would be hard pressed to function. In verse 18, we read this, "But as it is, God has placed and arranged the limbs and organs in the body, each [particular one] of them, just as He wished and saw fit and with the best adaptation." The dilemma is not with God, it's with us. We either get in the way or we attempt to tell God how the body of Christ should be constructed. Stop and think . . . that would be like the art pad telling Michelangelo how to paint.

Not too long ago, someone shared this with me, "you have a gift to include the outcasts." At first it took me back until the individual explained their statement. What she shared was that God has gifted me to reach out to others and to find ways to include them. Sometimes, Rob and I jokingly say, "we're friendship brokers." Although at times we feel the loneliest folks around.

There was a gospel song that went like this, "There's plenty of room in the family, there's room for the young and the old, . . ." I am sad to say far too often that this isn't the theme of some Christian circles today. It's more like this "There's plenty of room in the family, if you wear certain kinds of fashions, own your large homes, and so forth." Elitism is in the church whether you agree with me or not, it is a reality. People are hurting and we're playing games at the foot of the cross. Using buzz words will not help or jumping aboard the current trend in church life will not solve it. It's a heart issue that needs to be changed from the inside out.

The Apostle Paul had a burning compassion and genuine love for the churches he ministered to and with. He didn't need to have some kind of "spiritual pep rally," to propel him out into the world or to help him love the people more. Read with me in 2 Corinthians 5:14 -18 in the Amplified Bible.

- 14 For the love of Christ controls and urges and impels us, because we are of the opinion and conviction that [if] one died for all, then all died;

- 15 And He died for all, so that all those who live might live no longer to and for themselves, but to and for Him Who died and was raised again for their sake.

- 16 Consequently, from now on we estimate and regard no one from a [purely] human point of view [in terms of natural standards of value]. [No] even though we once did estimate Christ from a human viewpoint and as a man, yet now [we have such knowledge of Him that] we know Him no longer [in terms of the flesh].

- 17 Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!

-18 But all things are from God, Who through Jesus Christ reconciled us to Himself [received us into favor, brought us into harmony with Himself] and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation [that by word and deed we might aim to bring others into harmony with Him].

Jesus Christ gave us the ministry of reconciliation to bring others to Him. We do not read in this passage that we are to make sure they become like us. No, we are to bring others to Christ. He is the object not us.

God's ways are so much higher than our ways. We cannot pick and choose Scripture to support or under gird our behavior. We must come to God's Word and allow Him to bring light and illumination to our hearts and mind. Romans 12:10 states, "love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another."

We read in 1 Peter 3:8-12, the following ~

- 8 Finally, all [of you] should be of one and the same mind (united in spirit), sympathizing [with one another], loving [each other] as brethren [of one household], compassionate and courteous (tenderhearted and humble).

- 9 Never return evil for evil or insult for insult (scolding, tongue-lashing, berating), but on the contrary blessing [praying for their welfare, happiness, and protection, and truly pitying and loving them]. For know that to this you have been called, that you may yourselves inherit a blessing [from God--that you may obtain a blessing as heirs, bringing welfare and happiness and protection].

- 10 For let him who wants to enjoy life and see good days [good--whether apparent or not] keep his tongue free from evil and his lips from guile (treachery, deceit).

- 11 Let him turn away from wickedness and shun it, and let him do right. Let him search for peace (harmony; undisturbedness from fears, agitating passions, and moral conflicts) and seek it eagerly. [Do not merely desire peaceful relations with God, with your fellowmen, and with yourself, but pursue, go after them!]

- 12 For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with God), and His ears are attentive to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who practice evil [to oppose them, to frustrate, and defeat them]. [Ps 34:12-16.]

I am not a Pollyanna and I do not operate in a bubble. When we do things God's way, will we suffer or will we be misunderstood? Yes. Read all of 1 Peter in context and you will discover that reality. My Dad, whenever I would get discouraged for doing something I knew was biblically correct, my Dad would laugh and say, "young lady, you are in good company," and would quote Matthew 5 and other passages in I Peter. Plus remind me that I was in good company with earlier saints.

Perhaps our dear brothers and sisters in Christ around world know this more than what we know in America because they have had to literally suffer and die for their faith in Christ. We are experiencing some persecution in our country now, but I know that the fire could grow hotter in the not so distant future.

Meanwhile, we must rid ourselves of elitism and superiority. There isn't any passage in Scripture that would back up the sinful notion of elitism. In Philippians 2, we read that Jesus emptied Himself for our sake so we are not greater than our Lord.

My parents were intentional in their mission to insure that the foundation was laid for myself as well as my brothers. A passage that is woven within the fabric of my heart, mind, soul, and being is found in 1 Peter 4:8-11. Let's read what Peter wrote in this wonderful passage.

- 8 Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins [forgives and disregards the offenses of others]. [Pr 10:12.]

- 9 Practice hospitality to one another (those of the household of faith). [Be hospitable, be a lover of strangers, with brotherly affection for the unknown guests, the foreigners, the poor, and all others who come your way who are of Christ's body.] And [in each instance] do it ungrudgingly (cordially and graciously, without complaining but as representing Him).

- 10 As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God's many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely Diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].

- 11 Whoever speaks, [let him do it as one who utters] oracles of God; whoever renders service, [let him do it] as with the strength which God furnishes abundantly, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him be the glory and dominion forever and ever (through endless ages). Amen (so be it).

Please hear my heart. I share this not to say I have arrived or have all the answers. I cannot fit into your heads and minds insofar as to know what you think or why you do what you do. God's grace and mercy in my life has allowed some insights as to why we play favorites or demonstrate an attitude of "elitism" among brothers and sisters in Christ. Oh yes, I did say with fellow Christians. We expect the lost to cop attitudes and such, but when it becomes a lifestyle or a habit among believers, it is very disturbing. Please hear my heart, I know that I have not arrived and fall short so many times. I think perhaps out of insecurity this occurs; like an over compensation of one's abilities and limitations.

Let's examine what James 2 states,

- 1 MY BRETHREN, pay no servile regard to people [show no prejudice, no partiality]. Do not [attempt to] hold and practice the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ [the Lord] of glory [together with snobbery]!

- 2 For if a person comes into your congregation whose hands are adorned with gold rings and who is wearing splendid apparel, and also a poor [man] in shabby clothes comes in,

- 3 And you pay special attention to the one who wears the splendid clothes and say to him, Sit here in this preferable seat! while you tell the poor [man], Stand there! or, Sit there on the floor at my feet!

- 4 Are you not discriminating among your own and becoming critics and judges with wrong motives?

- 5 Listen, my beloved brethren: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and in their position as believers and to inherit the kingdom which He has promised to those who love Him?

- 6 But you [in contrast] have insulted (humiliated, dishonored, and shown your contempt for) the poor. Is it not the rich who domineer over you? Is it not they who drag you into the law courts?

- 7 Is it not they who slander and blaspheme that precious name by which you are distinguished and called [the name of Christ invoked in baptism]?

In conclusion, it does take an intentional act to be inclusive and not to cave into "playing favorites." Will you loose some friends as the result of changing your attitudes and your heartbeat, yes! Let's get out of the way and allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives reproving where we need reproof and correcting where we need correction. It should be our heart's desire to be the man or woman of God that is complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:17).

A personal note, I do hold a seminary degree and God has allowed me some marvelous life experiences along the way. However, if I neglect to do what the Bible actually teaches whether on purpose or accidentally, it still is an offense to our Lord. Let's cut to the chase and quit throwing around a lot of spiritual terminology and love the Lord and others in His love and His power. Whenever, I find myself getting too big for my britches, the Holy Spirit quickly brings to my heart and mind this resounding verse in Romans.

Let me share it with you. Romans 5:8 states, "But God shows and clearly provides His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us." That reality always keeps me in check and I realize how sinful I really am. But by the grace of God, I am what I am because of Christ. Nothing in my hand I bring, but only to Your cross, I cling.

Christian-Lite

Who are you listening to? Who are you reading? Are you buying into the false notion that you cannot understand God's Word and that it's for the "professional" to interpret it for you? Or do you just want a softer side of Christianity? Or perhaps you would like "Christian Lite," less commitment and no content?"

One only has to visit a local Christian bookstore or go on line to see the myriad of spirituality that is available. To think that all books or authors are the same is naive. Just because it is part of the merchandise doesn't mean that is biblically sound.

There is no substitute for taking time to immerse one's self into God's Word. In Psalm 119:11, we read, "Thy word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against Thee." God's Word not man's words. I do appreciate the many resources we have to assist us in growing in our relationship with Christ. However, THERE IS NO SHORT CUTS, NO CLIFF NOTES FOR ACTUALLY READING AND APPLYING GOD'S WORD INTO OUR HEARTS AND MINDS. Oh yes, that does include our MINDS.

Paul writes in Romans 12:1-2, "I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect." We're to renew our minds, not remove our minds.

A challenge I give to myself as well as to each of you is, am I spending time studying the Bible precept upon precept, line upon line or am I opting for the pop Christian bestseller or reading books about the Bible? There is a huge difference. God's Word must have priority over and above secondary sources and resources which could possibly take away or diminish His Word. Please understand. I am not opposed to commentaries or books that compliment biblical teaching. I enjoy excellent books that challenge me to draw closer to Christ. The key is where do you and I go first?

In the Amplified Bible, we read this from 2 Timothy 2:15, "Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no case to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth." It does not read, trying to lessen the meaning of the Bible to make it more palatable for today's seeker-sensitive culture." No indeed.

Let's read further in 2 Timothy in chapter 3, verses 14-17 from the Amplified Bible as well.

- 12 Indeed all who delight in piety and are determined to live a devoted and godly life in Christ Jesus will meet with persecution [will be made to suffer because of their religious stand].

- 13 But wicked men and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and leading astray others and being deceived and led astray themselves.

- 14 But as for you, continue to hold to the things that you have learned and of which you are convinced, knowing from whom you learned [them],

- 15 And how from your childhood you have had a knowledge of and been acquainted with the sacred Writings, which are able to instruct you and give you the understanding for salvation which comes through faith in Christ Jesus [through the leaning of the entire human personality on God in Christ Jesus in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness].

- 16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action),

- 17 So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.

In today's culture, there is a trend even in evangelical churches to lessen what the Bible actually teaches. Some are even trying to rewrite Paul's writings as well. We are to come to God's Word without our presuppositions and agenda and allow it to correct us. When we try to add or subtract, we have heresy, false teaching and deception. Not any of us are immune from that reality. Culture has changed, but Christ does not!

Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes] and forever (to the ages.) Hebrews 13:8.

At the close of the book of the Revelation, we reading these sobering words in chapter 22, verses 14-21:

- 14 Blessed (happy and to be envied) are those who cleanse their garments, that they may have the authority and right to [approach] the tree of life and to enter through the gates into the city. [Ge 2:9; 3:22,24.]

- 15[But] without are the dogs and those who practice sorceries (magic arts) and impurity [the lewd, adulterers] and the murderers and idolaters and everyone who loves and deals in falsehood (untruth, error, deception, cheating).

- 16 I, Jesus, have sent My messenger (angel) to you to witness and to give you assurance of these things for the churches (assemblies). I am the Root (the Source) and the Offspring of David, the radiant and brilliant Morning Star. [Isa 11:1,10.]

- 17 The [Holy] Spirit and the bride (the church, the true Christians) say, Come! And let him who is listening say, Come! And let everyone come who is thirsty [who is painfully conscious of his need of those things by which the soul is refreshed, supported, and strengthened]; and whoever [earnestly] desires to do it, let him come, take, appropriate, and drink the water of Life without cost. [Isa 55:1.]

- 18 I [personally solemnly] warn everyone who listens to the statements of the prophecy [the predictions and the consolations and admonitions pertaining to them] in this book: If anyone shall add anything to them, God will add and lay upon him the plagues (the afflictions and the calamities) that are recorded and described in this book.

- 19 And if anyone cancels or takes away from the statements of the book of this prophecy [these predictions relating to Christ's kingdom and its speedy triumph, together with the consolations and admonitions or warnings pertaining to them], God will cancel and take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the city of holiness (purity and hallowedness), which are described and promised in this book.

- 20 He Who gives this warning and affirms and testifies to these things says, Yes (it is true). [Surely] I am coming quickly (swiftly, speedily). Amen (so let it be)! Yes, come, Lord Jesus!

- 21 The grace (blessing and favor) of the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) be with all the saints (God's holy people, those set apart for God, to be, as it were, exclusively His). Amen (so let it be)!

I choose to stand upon the Solid Rock Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior in His truth, not man's interpretation or a remix of the TRUTH. The role of the Holy Spirit in my life and yours is to interpret God's truth in us and to us. (1 Corinthians 2:13)

An Oasis Is Nearby

Have you had those moments where you feel spiritually dry? You wonder if there is an oasis nearby to quench your spiritual thirst. The threatening storm clouds of discouragement and fear are hovering nearby.

Dear ones, an oasis is nearby and it is found in JESUS. He is the living water and only He can satisfy your thirsting soul.

In "Streams in the Desert - 2," today's selection, we read the following; Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. (Is. 12:3)

Oh blessed day when I first I found,
The stream that for my healing flowed;
I stooped and drank, and then, unbound,
My soul on Jesus praise bestowed.

No shore, no bottom then I found;
I swam, I drank, until a well
Where life's pure waters did abound
Within my soul with joy did swell.

Without, within, the waters rolled.
And every wave with life was fraught;
And blessings more than can be told
To me this matchless river brought.
[source: Abbie Mills, from Quiet Hallelujahs]

The wells of the Lord are to be found where most I need them. The Lord of the way knows the pilgrim life, and the wells have been unsealed just where the soul is prone to become dry and faint. At the foot of the hill difficulty was found a spring! Yes, these health-springs are lifting their crystal flood in the cheerless waters of evil antagonisms and exhausting grief.

Sometimes I am foolish, and in my need I assume that the well is far away. I knew of a farmer who for a generation had carried every pail of water from a distant well to meet the needs of his homestead. And one day he sank a shaft by his own house door, and to his great joy he found that the water was waiting at his own gate! My soul, they well is near, even here! Go not in search of Him! Thy pilgrimage is ended, the waters are at thy feet!

But I must "draw the water out of the wells of salvation." The hand of faith must lift the gracious gift to the parched lips, and so refresh the panting soul. "I will take the cup of salvation." Stretch out thy "lame hand of faith," and take the holy, hallowing energy offered by the Lord." [J.H. Jowett, from My Daily Meditation]

May the reality of Jesus being our oasis encourage you this day. I too have been encouraged and those storms clouds are not as threatening. Several chapters over, we read in Isaiah,

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle upon you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt [to the Babylonians] for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba [a province of Ethiopia] in exchange [for your release]. Because you are precious in My sight and honored, and because I love you, I will give men in return for you and peoples in exchange for your life. Fear not, for I am with you. . . (Is. 43:2-5b - Amplified Bible)

Oh what a comfort these words, "Fear not, for I am with you," to my heart, soul and mind. When those storm clouds threaten, and they will, let's remember these words.

And ultimately let's remember these words from Jesus found in John 7:37, "If any man is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink!"

"My Best Life Now! I Don't Think So

One only has to read the latest best sellers, watch and listen to the daily talk shows, read articles in popular magazines or search the web to understand that our culture and society is very much "self-centered" and "self-absorbed."

Even as Christians we are not immune from these temptations. The Bible tells us to "deny ourselves," while the world cries out, "become a better you," or "live your best life." We are daily inundated with these messages whether it be from a popular pastor, popular authors, or a favorite TV icon. Regardless, these messages do not line up with what the Bible teaches.

The problem is with what we want to believe versus what the Bible actually teaches. It's coming to the Bible with our presuppositions and trying to make it say what we want it to say or making it say less that it's original message.

In 1 John 2:15-17, we read these words ~
* 15) Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him.

* 16) For all that is in the world---the lust of the flesh [craving for sensual gratifications] and the lust of the eyes [greedy longings of the mine] and the pride of life [assurance in one's own resources or in the stability of earthly things]---these do not come from the Father but are from the world [itself].

* 17) And the world passes away and disappears, and with it the forbidden cravings (the passionate desires, the lust) of it; but he who does the will of God and carries out His purposes in his life abides (remains) forever.

In Matthew 4, we read of the Temptation of Jesus by the devil. The temptations could be summarized in three specific catagories:

1) The lust of the flesh
2) The lust of the eyes
3) The pride of life

It's not surprising that John addresses these areas for they have been with us since the Fall. Is it any different for us as Christians in the 21st century? Not all. We just think of more clever ways perhaps to disquise it, rationalize it, or package it.

Why the acceptance of the lie? I believe there are many reasons why. The one that alarms me the most is the reality that we are biblically illerate in our personal lives as well as in our churches. I remember right before I left for seminary a well-meaning friend saying to me, "why do you need to go to seminary when you can just stay home and read the Bible?" His comment did not deter me from God's calling in my life. Quite the opposite, it made me even more determined to follow Christ and gain a better understanding of God's Word.

Way before my departure to seminary, the ground work was laid by my dear precious parents as well as some incredible Sunday School teachers and Girls Missionary Auxiliary leaders. Prior to age 9, we did not own a television and time was spent in family devotions. In the afternoons after homework assignments were completed, we would listen to Christian children programs on the radio. Then each night at 8:00, we would listen "Unshackled," from the Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago, Illinois. Sometimes when I'm driving around in the evening, I am able to listen to Unshackled on one of the Christian radio stations. I still enjoy hearing incredible stories how God is changing the lives and hearts of men and women. I must confess, that each time I hear the organ music that opens up the program, my ears perk up, my heart overflows and sweet memories flood my mind. Indeed I am eternally grateful for my parents who laid the foundation in my life.

My Mom was particularly influential in mentoring me in God's Word. I remember as a junior high student that she was alarmed that on Sunday evening during "BTU - Baptist Training Union," that we were just reading our parts from the quarterlies instead of understanding the actual lessons and what the Bible taught.

So my sweet Mom developed "Bible Baseball," where the high school students were the team coaches and the junior high students made up the teams. We had weekly take home sheets that we had to complete using our Bibles. If we followed through and completed the questions, then our teams would be successful. Each Sunday night, my Mom had questions devised from these take home sheets. She drew a beautiful large baseball diamond on a large piece of plywood, that served as a visual each week as we played the game. [A side note: The was way before the modern Bible baseball products now in Christian bookstores.]

For example,
~ Bunts, Singles & Doubles - we had to answer without any team assistance.
~ Triples, Home Runs - we were allowed to consult with our team members.

If we answered incorrectly or if we did not even know the answers, it was an out for our team justs like in baseball. Would you believe Sunday night Youth Bible Study was recharged and we gained tremendous Bible knowledge as well as biblical application.

At my Mom's wake 22 years ago, these young people now adults; shared with our family how much an impact my Mom had made on their lives. Today many of them serve as Pastors, Music Ministers, Youth Ministers and Missionaries. What a godly impact my Mom made in my life as well as my brothers. She had a passion for the Word of God and wanted us to know her Savior and His inerrant Word.

As a child, I learned complete stories from both the Old and New Testaments. Guess what? My head did not explode nor did it short circuit my brain. I am afraid, that another reason why we are believing the lie, "Live Your Best Life," is that we do not know what the Bible actually says or teaches. Too many times, we get "Bible ditties," or "Bible thoughts". There are no short cuts in studying God's Word. No Cliff Notes available. One actually must put forth the effort and study the Bible themselves.

Children can learn complete stories from the Bible and parents can give more of the stories as their children grow in age and understanding.

So whenever you read items from the internet, at a Christian bookstore, or order on line, my admonition is that you make sure that it's content, worldview lines up with God's Word. The question is not, "does it sound like it is Christian? No, the question should be, "Is it BIBLICAL?"
As for me, I am not looking to find "my authentic self, "trying to transform my life," "celebrating me," and so forth. My heart's desire is to deny myself and take up my cross and follow Christ daily. In Luke 9:23-25 , Jesus spoke this, "And He said to all, If any person wills to come after Me, let him deny himself [disown himself, forget, lose sight of himself and his own interests, refuse and give up himself] and take up his cross daily and follow Me [cleave steadfastly to Me, conform wholly to My example in living and , if need be, in dying also. For whoever would preserve his life and save it will lose and destroy it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, he will preserve and avid it [from the penalty of eternal death]. For what does it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and ruins or forfeits (loses) himself?" (Amplified Bible)

In John 3:30 we read, "He must increase, but I must decrease. [He must grow more prominent: I must grow less so.] [Isaiah 9:7].

One can conclude that the Christian life is one of "selflessness" rather than selfishness. Beware of those who fly under the radar and tell you otherwise. These are our modern day deceivers.