THAT'S MY BOY (Part II)

THAT’S MY BOY (Part II)

When Isaiah unveiled the truth that Jesus Christ “was wounded for our transgressions (and) bruised for our iniquities,” he penned a prophetic and revelatory view of our SPIRITUAL JUSTIFICATION. (Isaiah 53:6-7) In a word, we who have received the Lord Jesus Christ are eternally JUSTIFIED BY GOD.

Having come “boldly to the throne of grace,” (the place of our unmerited favor), ALL of our sins have been covered by the redemptive blood of the precious Lamb of God. (Hebrews 4:16) To wit, we, who were unquestionably UNRIGHTEOUS, have now become “THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD.”  This means that we have been JUSTIFIED (by grace through faith), and thereafter Heaven evaluates us JUST-AS-IF we had never sinned. (Ephesians 2:8 – John 1:29 – Romans 3:22)

From that point onward, whenever GOD looks at us, He visualizes redeemed sons and daughters who have been blood-washed and blood-bought.  How I love the praise chorus that says, “The only view God has of me is through the blood of Jesus.”  Hallelujah, what a Savior!

This process is analogous to a patient whose body had been invaded by cancer, but who now exists in a medical state of REMISSION.  Indeed, all of our sins are remitted, and WE ARE GUILTY NO MORE! (John 20:23) GOD, Himself, testifies concerning us: “Their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.” (Hebrews 8:12 – Hebrews 10:17)

Here is an important question: If GOD has bestowed absolute absolution upon us because of our faith-filled response to the redemptive work of Christ on the cross, WHY do we sometimes seem to be knee-deep in guilt, recrimination and condemnation, regarding OUR PAST?

We must remember the mission-critical Kingdom truth that declares, “There is therefore now NO CONDEMNATION to them which are IN CHRIST JESUS, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (Romans 8:1) So, instead of wallowing in paralyzing regret over our past, we should ask the Savior for a PERSONAL HEALING OF THE MEMORIES so we can decree beyond any shadow of doubt, “GUILTY NO MORE!”

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THAT'S MY BOY (Part I)

THAT’S MY BOY! (Part I)

Some years ago, my two sons were enrolled in the Pop Warner Football League.  At the risk of sounding like an overly proud father (which, admittedly, I am), it was sheer delight to attend their games and witness their moments of excellence on the gridiron.  It is highly likely that I am somewhat lacking in objectivity, but I always considered Wayne II and Michael to be football prodigies.  So whenever one of them did anything that was remotely exceptional, whether a solid block, a robust tackle, or a spectacular touchdown, I sprang to my feet with unbridled enthusiasm and shouted, “THAT’S MY BOY!”

It occurs to me that GOD, THE FATHER, must have experienced similar feelings about GOD, THE SON.  After all, JESUS CHRIST accomplished extraordinary achievements in such a short span of years!  Because Jesus overcame every human temptation in a corrupt world system and lived a life of sinless perfection in perfect submission to The Father, it would have been no surprise (to me) for the gathered assembly to hear a booming voice from Heaven declaring “THAT’S MY BOY!”

Can I take you back to the WATER BAPTISM of THE SON OF GOD to demonstrate this point?

At Jesus’ baptism, we are afforded concrete evidence of THE TRIUNE GODHEAD, also known as THE HOLY TRINITY.  JESUS CHRIST, The Anointed One, stands waist-deep in the murky waters of the Jordan River, about to be immersed in water by his cousin, John the Baptist.  As Jesus emerges from the water, THE HOLY SPIRIT descends from Heaven in the bodily shape of a dove to reveal that this about to be baptized being is entirely unique and distinctive from any other who had ever traversed this mortal plain.  For He is VERY GOD and VERY MAN, that is, He is just as much MAN as he is GOD, and He is just as much GOD as he is MAN. 

As a matter of fact, He is THE LOGOS, THE LIVING WORD which was WITH God and WAS God, and thereafter became human flesh for our souls’ salvation. (John 1:1;14) He is EMMANUEL, signifying the close intimacy and communion actualized by GOD WITH US.  The witnesses of this water/spiritual baptism in the Jordanian wilderness not only experienced THE SON OF GOD and THE HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, but they actually heard the voice of GOD, THE FATHER, speaking from above: “THIS IS MY BELOVED SON!”  Wow!  “THAT’S MY BOY!” (Matthew 3:1-17)

The Father’s declaration is significant and relevant for us as believers because of the fact that WE are “ACCEPTED (by The Father) IN THE BELOVED (Son).” (Ephesians 1:6) Although we are entirely deserving of death, which is the justifiable wage of sin, JESUS CHRIST, the ‘gift’ of God, becomes our ‘doorway’ to eternal life. (Romans 6:23 – John 3:16 – John 10:10) Thereafter, as the Apostle Paul declares, “If any man be IN CHRIST, he is a NEW CREATION; old things are passed away and behold, all things are become new!” (II Corinthians 5:17)

The Prophet Isaiah puts it this way, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.  But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:6-7)

Stay tuned…more to come tomorrow!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE LIFE OF GOD IS IN YOU

THE LIFE OF GOD IS IN YOU

In the new birth, we encounter GENUINE LIFE – the life of God.  The Word declares, “In Him was life; and the life was the light of men.” (John 1:4).  This is a direct reference to Jesus Christ, “the true Light, which gives light to every man coming into the world.” (John 1:9) According to the testimony of Jesus, “I am the light of the world.  He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the LIGHT OF LIFE.” (John 8:12)

When a person is born again, s/he receives LIFE, and within that life is a LIGHT that literally ‘turns on’ inside of that individual.  For the first time, s/he is able to apprehend the things of God.  That’s why a believer can understand the new birth; while to an unbeliever it may sound like foolishness, or at least like something they cannot fully accept at the moment.  Jesus said is succinctly: “Unless one is born again, he cannot SEE the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)

The Greek word “ZOE” is translated as our English word, “life.”  It literally means THE LIFE OF GOD.  This word is used interchangeably with the phrase “eternal life.” (I John 3:15) In the new birth, our spirits are born of God.  “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (II Corinthians 5:17) It is the life and nature of God that flows into your spirit, causing you to become a new creation.

As a believer, it is vital to recognize that this LIFE is resident inside you. This is LIFE that brings LIGHT, i.e. the WISDOM OF GOD, which provides daily direction for achieving a Christ-centered, abundant life.

Question: As a believer, are you living wisely (from God’s point of view); or, are you still being ruled by the dictates of your natural mind?  Remember this: “The carnal mind [the natural fleshly mind] is enmity against God [the enemy of God]; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.” (Romans 8:7) Those who belong to God, have crucified the flesh [subjected the flesh] along with its demanding passions and desires. (Galatians 5:24 – Galatians 2:20).  We connect daily to the life of God via heartfelt prayer and studious meditation on His Word.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

FORGIVENESS IS MISSION CRITICAL

FORGIVENESS IS MISSION CRITICAL

There is a fascinating story-beneath-the-stories in the Acts of the Apostles.  Its principal characters are Paul, Barnabas and Mark.  The sub-plot involves hurt, disappointment, separation, reconciliation and forgiveness.  Before I explore details of this story, allow me to make one important observation.  If you have never been disappointed by the actions of others (or by your own actions), you are likely living in that gray neutral zone where you neither experience failure nor defeat because you have been paralyzed by fear and steadfastly refuse to embrace new relationships and/or new experiences.  Think about it. 

Disappointment and pain are part and parcel of the human experience.  

However, the downside of constantly focusing on the twin human experiences of disappointment and pain is eventual frustration.  If there is anything worse than unresolved anger with others, it is an inward rage at one’s own self for never trying, never failing and thus never succeeding.  Over time, inward frustrations and negative feelings become festering wounds; and, festering wounds are extremely dangerous wounds.  Since you must eat from the garden of your own inner thoughts, don’t grow anything there that you don’t want to consume, or be consumed by.  You and I must learn how to forgive other ‘HUMAN’ beings; and, our very first step toward accepting the clay feet of others is learning how to forgive ourselves for past errors, indiscretions and transgressions.

Now, on to our story.  Barnabas was the traveling companion of the Apostle Paul and an accomplished co-laborer in the gospel.  Mark was the nephew of Barnabas, and he dearly loved traveling with the great evangelist, Paul, and his ministry partner, Uncle Barnabas.  Perhaps, there was no kinder person in the New Testament than Barnabas.  We can infer much about the character of Barnabas from his name, which means “son of encouragement.”  On the other hand, Paul, the New Testament’s greatest missionary and most prolific author, might have seemed rather rigid and inflexible to the youthful Mark.

During one of Paul’s missionary journeys, a course correction moved them inland from Pamphylia to a place that was known to be quite dangerous.  Young Mark spoke loudly by his actions: ‘NO, this place isn’t for me, and this is as far as I’m going!’  Therefore, Mark took the ‘first flight’ home, to a more secure environment.

Later on, as Paul was planning his next evangelistic expedition, Uncle Barnabas wanted to take Nephew Mark along again.  In so many words, Paul said “Absolutely not – he failed us before and might fail us again!”  Paul and Barnabas ended up separating because of their divergent views on this matter and the disagreement that followed.  Nevertheless, I love how the story ends.  In the twilight of Paul’s life, while he was on death row in Rome awaiting execution by Emperor Nero, it was Mark who served as the courier for important spiritual letters penned by the apostle.  Paul had apparently forgiven Mark and true reconciliation had occurred.  The apostle not only spoke highly of Mark, but he fully trusted him with the delivery of epistles that were destined to become a prominent part of The New Testament.  Wow!

I believe that Mark must have been on Paul’s heart when the Holy Spirit inspired him to write the following: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

True biblical forgiveness not only pardons the offense, but FULLY RESTORES THE OFFENDER.  All of us have heard this saying, “I will FORGIVE, but I will NEVER FORGET.”  To be completely transparent, I have spoken those words myself.  But in my times of true spiritual self-examination, I had to ask myself an important question: ‘LORD, AM I TRULY FORGIVING IF I AM WILLFULLY HOLDING ONTO AND HARBORING THE MEMORY OF ANOTHER PERSON’S MISDEED?’  The emphasis here is on “willfully” since we do not have complete control the autonomic brain function of memory.  Only GOD can truly forget.  I love Hebrews 10:17, where God declares: “Their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.” Albeit, since we lack the capacity to completely forget, we must, as AN ACT OF OUR WILL, make the decision not to continually replay the act of offense, either through our private meditations or spoken words.  Forgiveness is mission critical to our emotional, spiritual and physical health.  How so?  When you deeply reflect on Christ’s mandate to forgive, you will come to this revelatory understanding:

FORGIVENESS IS UNLOCKING THE DOOR TO SET SOMEONE FREE AND REALIZING YOU WERE THE PRISONER.

FORGIVENESS IS A PROCESS.  It may not occur instantaneously, but it will surely manifest in application of one’s will to be healed and move forward in healthy relationships.

Here are some practical steps in the PROCESS OF FORGIVING:

1. Honestly confess to God your true feelings about the offense and the offender, and ask for His help.
2. As much as humanly possible, stop replaying the act of offense in the mental loop of your thoughts.
3. Replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts from The Word.  Speak and declare only what The Word speaks and declares about the situation and about the person.
4. Pray often for the offending party.
5. Refuse to be drawn into gossip pertaining to the offense or the offender.
6. Try to reflect on the good qualities or characteristics of the offending party, and speak them aloud, both to yourself and to others.
7. Greet the offending party with sincerity and love.  You do not have to hold extensive conversation with them just yet, but you will eventually ‘feel better’ if you do not try to avoid them.
8. Always consider your own flaws and imperfections.  This will keep you humble and more likely to forgive the flaws and imperfections of others.

Finally, we must never forget one mission critical spiritual reality: 

GOD FORGIVES US IN THE SAME MANNER THAT WE FORGIVE OTHERS. (Matthew 6:12;15)

In closing, I am firmly convinced that strife, ill-will and division were designed in hell and deployed as satanic tools to nullify our ability to be unified and cohesive families, both naturally and spiritually.  Remember this: FAMILIES ARE THE BASIC BUILDING-BLOCKS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD.  Our God seeks to transform and show-off our human relationships as clear and powerful reflections of divine love.  To wit, God’s power is on display in us.  When we fail to forgive, we bring energy and joy to the powers of darkness.  When we engage purposefully, prayerfully and lovingly in the process of forgiveness, our God smiles and divine favor rests upon us and those whom we encounter.  

GENUINE FORGIVENESS manifests and maximizes kingdom.  as such, forgiveness is MISSION CRITICAL to all we were designed to BE (and DO) in the perfect plan and purpose of God.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

WHAT IS MY PERSONAL LEGACY?

WHAT IS MY PERSONAL LEGACY?

According to the Book of Genesis, the oldest man who ever lived was Methuselah.  The Holy Writ records an intriguing epitaph for this (nearly) one millennial man: “And all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred sixty and nine years: and he died.”

Although his father, Enoch, was a spiritual patriarch who enjoyed a uniquely intimate relationship with God and was translated into eternity without experiencing death, there is nothing significant that is cited in the biblical record regarding the life achievements of Methuselah.   

All that is revealed about him can be summed up in one sentence.  HE LIVED AND HE DIED.

This somewhat sad state of affairs should precipitate serious self-examination in all of us.  It is not enough to be the son or daughter of someone who has left their mark in this world.  The real question is this: WHO AM I and what have I brought to THE TABLE OF LIFE that is valuable, durable and significant from Heaven’s point of view?

What is my personal legacy?  Is it all about the accumulation of possessions, power, prestige, fortune, or fame?  Or am I living the life that GOD imagined and designed when He created me in His image?

Think soberly for one moment.  If you were somehow able to attend your own funeral, what could attendees say (honestly) ABOUT YOU and YOUR IMPACT ON OTHERS?  Truthfully speaking, all of us can improve on our lives and our legacies.  Step it up.  It’s never too late, so start today!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR SINGLE PARENTS

A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR SINGLE PARENTS

It’s never easy going it alone.  Yet there are multiplied thousands (possibly millions) of single Moms or single Dads who make it happen for their family day after day after day.

These Moms or Dads could be ‘single’ for a variety of reasons.  Perhaps their marriages did not make it due to irreconcilable differences with their spouses.  Perhaps their husbands or wives cheated and abandoned them for younger or more attractive suitors.  Perhaps they were hapless victims of serial domestic violence and simply could not take the abuse anymore.  Perhaps they were never married and became young parents outside of the bonds of holy matrimony; and so, their children grew up with and alongside them.

By whatever avenue you have arrived at this single parent circumstance, there are several important things you need to know:

First of all, no child that was ever born is “illegitimate” in the Mind of God.  However, you and I have arrived on this planet, either through righteous or unrighteous unions, GOD foreknew our situations and crowned us with eternal love.  It’s a grace thing.  So never ever allow any person or group to label you or your child as shameful or as a disgrace.  If you made a mistake in life (of any sort), just ask God for forgiveness, take stock of yourself, live in as much peace as possible with those around you, rise up and keep it moving.

Secondly, please know that GOD SEES ALL your courageous effort, every day.  He takes careful note of your sacrifices, your exhaustion, your loneliness and even your pain.  Never forget that HE has a definite plan for you and your offspring.  “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Thirdly and finally, be assured of this: YOU CAN AND YOU WILL MAKE IT!  As long as you have JESUS at your side (and on your side), “nothing shall be impossible unto you.” (Matthew 17:20) Therefore, you must focus on His covenant promise, which simply says “no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17)

I see you.  But more importantly, GOD SEES YOU.  You have bandaged hundreds of cuts and scrapes; you have comforted children compassionately, wiping a myriad of tears; you have worked so hard (to the edge of exhaustion) both inside and outside of the home; you have washed more clothes and prepared more meals than anyone could possibly know; you have juggled a modest budget to keep food in your pantry, clothes on your children’s backs and a roof over their heads; and occasionally, you might have endured the ridicule or indifference of others who have never walked a mile in your shoes. 

Nevertheless, you are still standing!  GOD has a word of encouragement, designed specifically for you: “Take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and HAVING DONE ALL, to STAND.” (Ephesians 6:13) So be encouraged.  Keep moving forward.  Remember: “I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME.” (Philippians 4:13)  YOU CAN DO IT!  STAND! 

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD

THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD

A Connecticut author, A. Samuel Mattson, documents a story that speaks so simply, yet so eloquently, about the providence of God.  As you read, be cognizant of the fact that no matter what situation or circumstances we presently occupy, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

Jobs were hard to find in New York City in 1930.  At the age of 19, I was fresh off the boat from Sweden and didn’t speak any English.

When I boarded the train in my hometown of Karlskrona, Sweden, a woman next to me asked, “Where are you going?”

“To America,” I answered, “to make a new start.”

“My cousin Lars works in New York City,” she informed me, “at the Steinway piano factory.  Look him up when you get there.  She wrote his name on a piece of paper, handed it to me and said, God be with you.”

It was a sweltering New York day when I set out in search of the factory.  I had no idea where it was.  I wandered the city for hours, showing people that scrap of paper, which bore only four words: Lars Olsen, Steinway Piano.  Nobody was able to help.

I was very disappointed, and oh so tired.  When I saw a parked car, I opened the door and slid into the back seat.  Back home, anyone could rest in someone else’s wagon or cart.  I hoped the same was true here.

I soon fell asleep, but was jolted awake by the loud blast of a whistle.  Workmen streamed out of a nearby building and one of them yelled at me in English.  What is he so upset about?  I answered instinctively in Swedish that I was sorry.  Amazingly, he responded in Swedish: “What are you doing in my car?”

I explained, then showed him that piece of paper.  The man smiled.  He said the whistle I just heard announced the end of the workday at Steinway & Sons.  Then he walked me around the corner and introduced me to someone who gave me a job as a painter.

By now you’ve probably guessed.  The man who owned the car and the factory was Lars Olsen.

Isn’t God absolutely awesome?!?  The reason you and I can lay down at night and rest peacefully and securely is quite simple: GOD IS UP…HANDLING EVERY SINGLE PERSONAL CONCERN…IN WAYS WE CANNOT SEE. (Psalm 121:4)

So, trust Him.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

PESKY PROBLEMS IN PERFECT DISGUISE

PESKY PROBLEMS IN PERFECT DISGUISE

Can I speak to all of the REAL DIAMONDS out there?  You’ve been through so much, having survived yet thrived in the crucible of off-the-chart pressure over an extended period of time.  The journey has taught you that there is purpose in the pressure and the process.  Bottom-line: No pain, no gain.  Wouldn’t you agree?

Keith Ready shares a story that positively affirms this fact.  Read and prayerfully ponder:

On a recent Saturday around midnight, my wife and I were about to fall asleep when we heard people talking outside our home.  Out of the blue came two loud thuds above our bedroom window, followed by the sound of laughter and people running away down our street.

We jumped out of bed, turned on the external lights and rushed outside, unsure of what had caused the two thuds and what damage we might see.  Dripping noises on the driveway and the flood light above our garage helped us to immediately identify what had happened.  Our home was the victim of an egg bombing!

The prospect of cleaning up this sticky mess was no pleasing thought, on top of which I was quite angry that we had been singled out for this annoying prank.  I decided that it was too late to clean up the mess because it might disturb our neighbors, so it could wait until morning.

Early next morning, armed with a bucket of warm soapy water, a scrubbing brush and an extension ladder, I was ready to wash off the dried-out egg grit above our bedroom window.

My task was made even more challenging by the two large canvas awnings that protect our bedroom windows from the heat and glare of the sun.  My annoyance with those late-night pranksters was slowly building to the level of the night before.

After retracting the awnings, something we rarely do except when there are very high winds, I climbed the ladder to clean the first patch of egg stains.  Then I moved the ladder to clean the second patch.  As I climbed the second time, I noticed that the glass in a window just under the roof line was badly cracked.  Since the awning protected the window, it was clear that the damage had not been caused by the egg bombing.  As I carefully placed my hand on the glass, I discovered that the pane of glass was quite loose.  Had the window been opened or closed with any force, it would likely have shattered; and all that glass would have dropped to the driveway, seven meters below.

Underneath that window, we have a basketball court, and most days there are five or six children playing in that immediate area, including our two sons.  My thoughts immediately turned to what could have happened if the broken glass in the window had gone undetected and suddenly shattered.  The likelihood of our children and their friends being seriously injured was extremely high.

After washing the remaining egg stains off the front wall, I got some heavy-duty masking tape and secured the cracked window as best I could.  Within 24 hours the cracked window was replaced and all was back to normal. 

Over the next few days, I realized that if our home not been bombarded by those eggs late Saturday night, I might never have discovered the broken window pane before it shattered and came down on the basketball court.  Even though it had been an annoyance at time, the broken eggs and stains were cleaned up quite quickly.  However, the damage that could have been caused by the shattering of glass over our children’s heads could have been much more severe.

Frequently in life, the small things that happen to us have a temporary negative impact, causing some pain, sadness, discomfort, or aggravation.  It is often said that we should not ‘sweat the small stuff’ and we should always look for the positive outcome, i.e. ‘the silver lining’ in the dark clouds of our current circumstances.  Admittedly, this is not always easy to do, in a troublesome moment.

My personal experience with the egg bombing reminds me that there is always a flip side to everything that happens.  Often the flip side provides a positive outcome or benefit; if not now, then at some point in the future.

We heartily agree with you, Mr. Ready.  Thanks for sharing your story.  Although our personal circumstances may differ, there is always AN ELEMENT OF DIVINE FAVOR present in every problem.  Indeed, our pesky problems are perfect disguises for miraculous revelations of the LOVE AND POWER OF GOD.  What does the Word have to say about this?

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) 

And since you are one of the REAL DIAMONDS in this world, you already know.  Amen?  AMEN!!!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

YOUR ANSWER IS SIMPLE: LOOK UP!

YOUR ANSWER IS SIMPLE: LOOK UP!

I love our ability to discern key spiritual principles by simply observing God’s creation.  In such situations, the interpretive principle that is operative is ‘First natural, then spiritual.’

If you place a buzzard in a pen, six or eight feet square, and entirely open at the top, that bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will become an absolute prisoner.  The reason is that buzzards always begin flight with a run-up of ten or twelve feet.  Without space to maneuver and run, as is its habit, a buzzard will not even attempt to fly, but will remain imprisoned for life in a tiny topless prison.

The ordinary bat, which flies around at night, is a remarkably nimble creature in the air, but it cannot take off from a level place.  If it is placed on the floor or on flat ground, all it will do is shuffle about helplessly until it can reach a slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air.  Only then will it take off like a flash.

The bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will remain there until it dies unless and until it is taken out.  How so?  It never sees the top as a viable means of escape, but persists in trying to find an exit through the side or near the bottom.  Seeking a way out where none exists, the bumblebee destroys itself.

In some ways, many of us are quite like the buzzard, the bat and the bee.  We struggle through a myriad of problems, pressures and pains, not realizing that if we simply LOOK UP, we will soon find the answer.

In the sage words of our Savior, Jesus Christ, “LOOK UP and LIFT UP YOUR HEADS, because your redemption draws near.” (Luke 21:28b)

There is absolutely no faith or future in the downward look.  However, there is phenomenal favor and blessing (powerfully present and always attainable) in the attitudes and actions of believers who gaze Heavenward.  LOOK UP!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

TOMORROW IS GOING TO BE BETTER!

TOMORROW IS GOING TO BE BETTER!

A few years before Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, a new and expensive automobile stopped on the Mississippi River Bridge.  A gentleman stepped out of the car, wearing very costly clothing.  He climbed over the rail and onto a platform, preparing to jump.  Cars stopped, and traffic backed up for miles.  The police arrived, along with the fire department, ministers and mental health professionals.

They began talking to the man, trying to convince him not to jump.  They told him that he might not die; he could break all his bones, or be paralyzed for life.  An old truck, loaded with lawn mowers, rakes, and shovels was stuck in the huge traffic jam.  An elderly gardener got out of the truck and walked over to where the crowd had gathered.

He waded through the people, looked over the side and hollered down to the man on the ledge, “Hey, I got to go to work.  Either jump or get off the bridge.  If you decide not to jump, tomorrow is going to be better!”

With that, the suicidal man climbed back up onto the bridge.  The police took him away for evaluation.  And the gardener walked back to his truck waiting for the traffic to move.

One minister asked the fireman, “Who was that?”  The fireman said, “He said he has to go to work!”

The police later reported to the press that all the way to the hospital the man kept saying over and over, “Tomorrow is going to be better.”  “Tomorrow is going to be better.”  “Tomorrow is going to be better.”

Bottom-line: One must SEE a future, to HAVE a future.  In other words, do not stand to close to the trees; you will be unable to see the forest.  Always remember that God is up to something – behind the scenes.

So, whatever is happening in and around your life, it ain’t over until GOD says it’s over!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

WHAT WILL BE YOUR REWARDS IN HEAVEN?

WHAT WILL BE YOUR REWARDS IN HEAVEN?

In addition to the bountiful blessing of eternal life in the presence of Almighty God, committed Christian disciples will also receive certain tangible rewards.  In the words of Jesus Christ, “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work.” (Revelation 22:12)

Subsequent to the Rapture of the Church, THE KINGDOM WORKS OF ALL BELIEVERS will be judged and rewarded by Christ at THE BEMA, which is the judgment seat of Christ. (I Thessalonians 4:15-18)

II Corinthians 5:10

For we must all appear before THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

This is separate and distinct from the great WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT, which will occur at the close of the 1000-year Millennial Reign of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 20:12)

At THE BEMA JUDGMENT, (prior to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb which will take place during the 7-YearTribulation Period), believers’ works will be judged (not our salvation), for we who will be caught up in the Rapture of the Church will already have been fully cleansed and forgiven via the vicarious suffering and atoning grace of Christ on Calvary. (Titus 3:4-7 and Revelation 19:9)

Nevertheless, our Kingdom works will be divinely evaluated and rewarded.

I Corinthians 3:11-17

For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.  Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is.  If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.  If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.  Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?  If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.

FIVE SPECIFIC CROWNS WILL BE AWARDED AT THE BEMA:

AN INCORRUPTIBLE CROWN (The Victor’s Crown)

I Corinthians 9:25

And every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

[Note: This crown is awarded to those who have purged themselves from the pleasures of the world to be more effective servants in the Kingdom of God]. --I Corinthians 9:27

A CROWN OF LIFE (The Martyr’s Crown)

Revelation 2:10

Fear none of those things which you will suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that you may be tried; and you shall have tribulation ten days: be faithful unto death, and I will give you a crown of life.

[Note: This crown is awarded to those who have endured extreme suffering and death for the cause of Christ].

A CROWN OF GLORY (The Shepherd’s Crown)

I Peter 5:2-4

Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock.  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fades not away.

[Note: This crown is awarded to those who have dedicated their lives to teaching the Word of God and nurturing the people of God].

A CROWN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS (The Crown For Those Who Love His Appearing)

II Timothy 4:8

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

[Note: This crown is awarded to those who have lived a righteous life in faithful and joyful anticipation of the return of Christ].

A CROWN OF REJOICING (The Soul Winner’s Crown)

I Thessalonians 2:19-20

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?  Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?  For you are our glory and joy.

[Note: This crown is awarded to those who have brought souls into the Kingdom of God].

WHAT WILL BE YOUR PERSONAL REWARD(S) IN HEAVEN?  My friend, think prayerfully and carefully about it.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

WHY I AM A CHRISTIAN (Part IV)

WHY I AM A CHRISTIAN (Part IV)

I AM A BELIEVER.  Today, I will share one more reason for my decision to become a Christian disciple.  Indeed, there are many.

REASON #4

I have personally witnessed THE SOVEREIGN HAND OF GOD, moving in and around my life.

Each one of the redeemed has a powerful personal testimony, whether we know it or not, whether we tell it or not.  With your permission, I would like to share just a portion of my own. 

Long before my birth, “prevenient grace” (John and Charles Wesley’s theological term) orchestrated the conditions for my existence in this world.  Godly parents (and grandparents) set the stage for a very early encounter with Christ.  Thankfully, I was bathed in fervent prayer, surrounded by Christian values and virtues.  To wit, nine siblings and I never heard our parents utter a single word of profanity, never witnessed them smoking a single cigarette or imbibing a single glass of any alcoholic substance.  In a word, Jesus Christ was the spiritual head of our home and His Word was our constant companion.

I remember two modest plaques hanging on our dining room wall: “In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths” – and another, “There is no other name given among men whereby we must be saved.”  I suppose these scriptures were unofficial Bass family themes.  Our father was an esteemed man of God, a pastor, a hard-working provider and an exceptional role model.  Our mother meticulously cared for her family and home – cradling us in loving nurture and covering us with daily prayer.  We were never permitted to leave home for school without first bowing on our knees before Our Father and being anointed with blessed oil.

Thanks to the purposefully spiritual environment fostered by our parents, by the tender age of eight, I had more than sufficient knowledge of the gospel to recognize my personal need for the Savior.  By His grace, I accepted salvation and developed a lifelong relationship with our Lord.

At age fifteen, I was miraculously called into the ministry.  Although I had been saddled with a major speech impediment, God healed me and empowered me to do something I never imagined I could, to speak boldly before congregations large and small.

On a personal level, I know Jesus Christ as The Great Physician.  I am a cancer survivor.  I am still here by the grace of God.  Beyond any shadow of doubt, our God is truly great, and greatly to be praised!

Additionally, Jehovah Jireh has come to my financial rescue more times than I can recall.  I know Him to be “a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) What a mighty God we serve!

And years ago, when I was a backslider, momentarily turning my back on God, His unconditional love sought me and brought me back into the family fold.  Oh, how He loves you and me!

Now, by the grace of God, I am what I am.  My accomplishments may be modest, but daily I can sense His presence and His power; and, I am eternally grateful for an intimate and eternal connection with Jesus Christ.  There are no other alternatives for me; there is no other way that I choose to live.  From my heart, I joyously echo the words of the Apostle Peter, “Lord, to whom shall we go?  YOU have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68) 

Thank you, Father, for allowing me the privilege and power of sonship.  Thank you, Jesus, for dying vicariously in my place and securing my salvation and victory, both now and forevermore.  Amen.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!