HOW DEPENDABLE ARE ONE'S EMOTIONS?

HOW DEPENDABLE ARE ONE’S EMOTIONS?

 Let’s begin today’s query with a brief poem written during the 1500s by the great Christian reformer, Martin Luther.

 

Feelings come and feelings go
And feelings are deceiving;
My warrant is the Word of God,
Naught else is worth believing.

 This suggests that our feelings about any matter, which are largely based on subjective emotions, tend to be grossly unreliable indicators for gauging truth or reality.  As Luther poetically suggests, it is far more sensible, sustainable and spiritually sound to map the course of our lives via eternal truth.

 Interesting enough, it has been scientifically proven that the intensity of our emotions has direct correlation to our physical health.  Hmmm…I resolve to remember that fact when next confronted with anything that elevates both my temperament and blood pressure.

 If this lacks credibility for you, consider a study conducted at the prestigious Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.  Two researchers, Betz and Thomas, classified 45 Johns Hopkins medical students in three personality groups on the basis of psychological tests and questionnaires.  The students were listed either as “alphas,” described as cautious, reserved, quiet and undemanding; as “betas,” spontaneous, active and outgoing; or as “gammas,” moody, emotional and either over or under demanding.  Thirty years later, they reviewed the health records of these former students.  They found that 77.3 percent of the gamma group suffered from major disorders, including cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease and emotional disturbances.  The incidence of disorders was only 25 percent in the alpha group and 26.7 percent in the betas.  “Too often, gamma people get lost in their own emotions,” wrote Betz.  “While a person’s temperament cannot be changed, more support from outside sources--such as solid human contacts--might help lessen a gamma’s high risk of disease.”

 My friends, do you (or I) need to spend some quality time in the calm-me-down room?!?  I’m not speaking about some padded wall facility.  I am referring to our personal place of refuge [older believers called it their ‘secret closet’] where we will experience transformational attitude adjustments in the presence of God through the healing media of His Word and prayer.  Think.

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

IS IDOLATRY ALIVE AND WELL IN THE 21ST CENTURY?

IS IDOLATRY ALIVE AND WELL IN THE 21^ST CENTURY?

 The first commandment in The Decalogue is God’s requirement that we have no other gods before Him.  Even though polytheism is not overtly practiced to the degree that it once was, it exists in a variety of forms today.

 While ancient Israel was required to avoid Baal worship, which featured drunkenness and ritual prostitution, we 21^st century folks have a pantheon of false gods that we serve.  James Packer, in “Your Father Loves You,” frames our spiritual challenge this way: “For us there are still the great gods of sex, shekels, and stomach (an unholy trinity consisting of one god: self).  Another enslaving trio is pleasure, possessions, and position, whose worship is described in the Word as “the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the pride of life.” (I John 2:16)  Football, the firm, and the family are gods for some.  Indeed the list is endless, for anything man allows to run his life becomes his god.”

 Augustine, an African bishop in the early church, summed this up rather uniquely.  “Idolatry” he wrote, “is worshiping anything that ought to be used, or using anything that ought to be worshiped.”

 By any definition, idolatry is rampant in America.  It includes an unchecked passion and pursuit of materialism, sensuality, leisure, self-development and New Age thinking – all of which can distance us from our created purpose at lightning speeds.  Unfortunately, even a substantial segment of the institutional church has fallen prey to the subtle and hypnotic sirens of idolatry.  Many clergy have become more focused (or should I say obsessed?) with rising in the church hierarchy, obtaining elevated titles and donning liturgical vestments, than they are dedicated to embracing Kingdom mindsets as servant-leaders whose principal task is to fulfill The Great Commission.  Laity alike are subject to acquiring symptoms of this carnal dis-ease, what I call ‘The Elevation Syndrome.’

 Might I propose a practical rule of thumb for collective and individual self-evaluation?  Draw a line vertically in the middle of a sheet of paper.  On the left, list the things that you truly love and yearn for in this life, things that float your boat, things that turn you on and motivate some course of action.  On the left, list the scriptural priorities that God has ordained and ordered.  Be transparent and honest in your evaluation.  What do you truly love?  What do you hold in high esteem, or perhaps even worship?

 I did it, and it works.  Don’t be hesitant to try.  It’s a real eye-opening experience – perhaps an affirmative step toward your spiritual transformation or renewal.

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

NO ROOM FOR PREJUDICE IN CHRISTIANITY

NO ROOM FOR PREJUDICE IN CHRISTIANITY

Watching nightly news can be an entirely depressing experience in contemporary America.  There is an endless array of pestilence, violence, terrorism, warfare and man’s inhumanity to man, all enacted, escalated, or viewed through the deadly prism of prejudice.

 Unquestionably, prejudice is satanic in origin.

 Because it accomplishes all that Jesus Christ spoke of when he described the heinous character of Satan, “the thief, who comes to steal, kill and destroy.” (John 10:10)  Prejudice robs us of hope, kills opportunity and destroys relationships.

 Most distressing are the prejudicial perspectives and practices that emanate from certain segments of the so-called ‘Christian community,’ some of whom seem to have ignorantly or willfully embraced deception, hate speech and racial animus.  How can we possibly believe in the promise of eternal communion with Christ while promoting carnal divisions of race, ethnicity, gender and class within the very sanctuaries in which we proclaim the presence and power of God?

 Prejudice not only disparages our sisters and brothers; it completely degrades and damages our witness.  In his autobiography, Mahatma Gandhi wrote that during his student days he read the gospels quite seriously and actually considered converting to Christianity.  He believed that he could find the solution to the caste system that was dividing the people of India in the teachings of Christ.

 So one Sunday he decided to attend services at a nearby church and consult with the minister about becoming a Christian.  However, when he entered the sanctuary, the usher refused to offer him a seat, insisting that he go and worship with his own people.  Gandhi left that church and never returned.  “If Christians have caste differences also,” he concluded, “I might as well remain a Hindu.”  Think about it.  That usher’s prejudice not only betrayed Jesus Christ, but also turned away a soul who was actively in pursuit of a Savior.

 There is no room for prejudice of any kind in the Christian faith.  Indeed, “God has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on the face of the earth.” (Acts 17:26)  Any persons who refuse to come to grips with that irrefutable truth will likely find themselves exiled from Heaven.

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

A YIELDED LIFE

A YIELDED LIFE

 Our current generation appears to be supremely confident that we are right, even when we are wrong.  We are culturally conditioned to be reluctant to submit to authority, even Heaven’s – being fully persuaded that we have the RIGHT to see things through the lens of our own life experiences.  Thus we fall prey to what I call ‘ala-carte-faith,’ which means that we cherry-pick God’s Word and extract only those portions that align with our personal opinions, lifestyles, choices and comfort.

 What does God’s Word have to say about this behavior?  “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” (Proverbs 14:12)  Bottom-line: One can never achieve authentic covenant with Christ without yielding to His will.  Indeed, our willingness to submit to His Word is actually a matter of life-or-death.

 Prayerfully consider this tragic event.  In the summer of 1986, two ships collided in the Black Sea off the coast of Russia.  Hundreds died as they were hurled into the icy waters.  An in-depth investigation revealed a devastating cause.  It wasn’t a technology issue or an equipment malfunction.  It wasn’t thick fog or any challenging weather condition.  The sole cause of this deadly incident was human stubbornness.  Each captain was aware of the other ship’s presence.  The investigation revealed that both ships could have easily steered clear, but neither captain wanted to give way to the other.  Each was too proud, too stubborn, to yield first.  By the time they came to their senses, it was too late.

 We must learn from their tragic error.  The Word declares that at the second coming of Christ, “every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:10-11)  This means that all people – individuals of every faith, viewpoint, opinion, life-perspective, race, social class, etc., must ultimately concede to the immutable truth of the Lordship of Christ.

 Which course of action seems more sensible and self-preserving, to bow now, or to bow later?  Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life.” (John 14:6)  Choose wisely; abandon yours; adopt His.

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

HOW DOES WORRY WORK OUT FOR YOU?

HOW DOES WORRY WORK OUT FOR YOU?

 Arguably, the greatest waste of our time and energy is worry.

 Jesus Christ, the Author and Finisher of faith, asks a very practical question about the human tendency to allow anxiety and worry to rule:  “Which of you by worrying can add one hour to his life’s span?” (Luke 12:25, AMP)  Viewed in that light, worry is not only unhelpful, it is (pardon my candor) incredibly dumb!

 Whenever fear’s first-cousin, worry, knocks on her door, the author Mary Crowley deploys an entirely logical strategy.  “I turn all worries over to God.  He’s going to be up all night anyway.”  We like that, Mary, and we’ll try it!  For if we allow it, worry drains the joy out of what otherwise was a wonderfully blessed day.  When we allow it, worry pulls a dismal cloud over tomorrow’s sunshine. 

 One of my favorite authors, A. W. Tozer, wrote this: “The man who comes to a right belief about God is relieved of ten thousand temporal problems for he sees at once that these have to do with matters which at the most cannot concern him very long.”  In other words, past encounters with trouble have taught you one priceless lesson.  They come to an end and you make it.  You’re a survivor.  So why worry since God always has your back in ways you cannot possibly imagine.  Think.  The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the ending of anxiety. 

 Never forget that God is always up to something  supreme behind the scenes.

 One of Napoleon’s generals unexpectedly appeared with 18,000 soldiers before an Austrian town which had no means of defending itself.  The town council met, feeling sure that surrender was the only solution.  An aged pastor reminded the council that it was Easter, and begged them to hold services as usual and leave the trouble in God’s hands.  Reluctantly, they followed his advice.  When the church bells were rung to announce the service, the French soldiers heard them and concluded that the Austrian army had come to the town’s rescue.  They immediately broke camp, and vanished.

My friend, God has a peculiar way of working things out, even the tough stuff.  As the song says, “God specializes in things that seem impossible.”  So, in the words of the Apostle Paul, the believer’s charge is to “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

 The lyrics penned by Joseph Scriven are clearly apropos.  “Oh what peace we often forfeit, oh what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.”

 Stop worrying about it, and tell GOD 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!

INTENTIONAL FELLOWSHIP

INTENTIONAL FELLOWSHIP

 Sometimes, when I hear ‘church people’ referring to the biblical concept of fellowship, they automatically refer to hospitality gatherings such as shared meals or group events.  Life has taught me over the years that sitting next to someone while sharing a chicken dinner does not necessarily mean that true fellowship is occurring.  For on occasion, even enemies find it expedient to sit together, or dine together, to fulfill undisclosed ulterior motives or simply for the sake of appearances.

 True New Testament Fellowship, as reflected in “The Acts of the Apostles,” means something entirely different.  The early church gathered constantly in private homes to hear the apostles teaching, to share common faith experiences, to pray, to worship, to break bread.  It was a joyful celebration of their Lord and Savior, not simply to affirm or amplify any feelings of personal affection. 

 James Packer writes, in his book “Your Father Loves You,” that “Chrisian fellowship is always two-dimensional.  It has to be vertical before it can be horizontal.  We must know the reality of fellowship with the Father…before we can know the reality of fellowship with each other. The person who is not in fellowship with God is no Christian at all, and cannot share with Christians real fellowship.”

 Fellowship is based primarily on agape, which is characterized by selfless and sacrificial giving.  Prayerfully consider the following story which epitomizes genuine fellowship.

 During the late fall, a young woman named Linda was traveling alone on the rugged highway between Alberta, Canada and the Yukon.  Linda seemed unaware that it was foolhardy to travel this road all alone in a rundown Honda Civic, so she set off where only four-wheel drives normally venture.  That first evening, she found a room near a mountain pass and asked for a 5:00 A.M. wakeup call to get an early start.  She couldn’t comprehend why the clerk looked so surprised at her request, but waking to thick morning fog shrouding the mountain, she fully understood.

 Not wanting to look foolish, Linda got up anyway and went to breakfast.  Two truckers invited her to join them, and since the place was so small, she felt obliged. “Where are you headed?” one of the truckers asked.  “To Whitehorse,” she replied.  “In that little Civic?  No way!  This pass is way too dangerous in weather like this.”  Linda seemed undeterred.  “Well, I'm determined to try,” was her gutsy, if not well informed, response.  The truck drivers just stared at her in disbelief.  “Then I guess we’re just going to have to hug you,” they suggested.  Linda drew back.  “There's no way I’m going to let you touch me!” she responded firmly.

 “Not like THAT!” the truckers chuckled.  “We'll put one truck in front of you and one truck in the rear. That way, we’ll get you through the mountains safely.”  So all that foggy morning Linda followed the two red dot lights in front of her with the assurance of another escort behind as they made their way safely through the mountains.  

 It occurs to me that we are sometimes caught in the blinding fog of unfamiliar and dangerous passages in this life, and we simply need to be “hugged.”  Fellow Christians who know the way can accompany us safely (ahead and behind), offering mission-critical encouragement and guidance so we can achieve our common purpose and destiny.  That, my friends, is what true fellowship is all about –one caring and compassionate Christian community, under one Sovereign Savior, full of faith, always indivisible, no matter what challenging conditions life may bring.  Live intentionally, in full fellowship.

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

IMAGINATION

IMAGINATION

 Because we have been designed in the image of God, our Creator has graciously endowed us with a very fertile and productive imagination.  Imagination is the first cousin of faith since it envisions, anticipates and actualizes the promises of God.  On the other hand, fear should be understood as the erroneous use of our imagination because fear consistently believes for the worst, not the best. 

 God-given imagination is an extremely powerful and effective weapon.  Deploy it wisely.

 Consider the story of a frustrated salesman, who while driving on a country road one dark and rainy night, had a flat tire.  He opened the trunk, only to discover that there was no lug wrench.  The light from a nearby farmhouse could be seen dimly down the road.  He set out on foot through the driving rain.  Surely the farmer would have a lug wrench he could borrow, he thought.  Of course, it was late at night and the farmer would likely be sound asleep in his warm, dry bed.  Maybe he wouldn’t even answer the door.  And if he did, he’d be angry at being awakened in the middle of the night.

 Picking his way blindly through the dark, the salesman stumbled on.  By now his shoes and clothing were soaked through and through.  Even if the farmer did answer his knock, he would probably shout something like, “What’s the big idea waking me up at this hour!”  The very thought of this made the salesman quite angry.  What right would that farmer have to refuse him the loan of a lug wrench?  After all, here he was stranded in the middle of nowhere, soaking wet in the pouring rain.  This farmer was a very selfish clod indeed--no doubt about it!  The salesman finally reached the house and banged loudly on the door.  A light went on inside, and a window opened above.  “Who is it?” a voice called out.  “You know darn well who it is,” yelled the exasperated salesman, his face red with anger.  “It's me!  You can keep your blasted lug wrench.  I wouldn’t borrow it now if you had the last one on earth!”  Making a guttural scream,  he jogged off in the rain toward his dysfunctional vehicle.

 This stranded and hapless salesman had allowed the worst part of his imagination to get the best of him.  Had he only assumed a more positive perspective as he approached the farmhouse, his results would certainly have been remarkably different.

 The Apostle Paul suggests a spiritual strategy that allows every winner-believer the ability to keep an affirmative spirit and a firm grip on life-victory.  Recorded in II Corinthians 10:4-6, Paul writes:

 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.  Casting down [unproductive] imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. (II Corinthians 10:4-6)

 As we allow ourselves to embrace crystal-clear IMAGES of the promises of God, revealed through the Word of God, we are empowered to walk in divine truth, fulfilling promised blessings in and around our lives.  I love how Joshua frames it: “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth; but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it.  For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8, NKJV)

 My friend, what are you imagining (imaging) concerning your divine purpose and destiny?

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

NEVER FORGET WHAT YOU CAME FROM

NEVER FORGET WHAT YOU CAME FROM

 I must confess that I listen in silent amusement whenever I hear people bragging about personal achievements with little regard or remembrance of those who sacrificially forged their foundations and their formation.

 Thank God, not everyone is like that.

 It calls to mind the story of young Richard Sears, who was a railroad agent in Redwood, Minnesota.   He came upon the novel idea of ordering watches directly from the manufacturer, then reshipping them to agents who in turn sold them to local people.  Sears launched a national mail-order company, and later teamed up with Alvah Roebuck.   The rest is history: Sears & Roebuck.

 By 1894, this successful store had a huge 300-page catalog.  In fact, business was rolling in so fast that Sears simply burned excess order forms when he fell too far behind!  Wow!  But soon he employed a brilliant businessman named Julius Rosenwald to organize the chaos.  Rosenwald initiated many changes and innovations that cause company sales to zoom skyward.  By 1908, Sears was out of the corporate picture, but even though Rosenwald was personally responsible for the massive overhaul of the business, he was wise enough to preserve the best of the past – the book – the classic Sears catalog which has earned a permanent place in American marketing folklore. 

 My friends, we must never forget to cherish and celebrate our roots.

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

A BIT OF CHURCH HISTORY...

A BIT OF CHURCH HISTORY…

 In 1722, Count Nicholaus von Zinzendorf of Saxony, England, founded a colony of devoted believers called “Hernhut,” which later became known as the Moravians.  He traveled to America and set up communities that dispatched missionaries – first to Greenland, then to the West Indies, and beyond.  By the time Zinzendorf died in 1760, approximately 300 missionaries (all laypersons) had been sent out from the various American colonies.  In 1738, when some of the challenges of missionary life had manifested, Zinzendorf wrote his famous instructions, many of which are strangely familiar, despite their 18th century language.  According to Zinzendorf, it is far better to send missionaries into the wide world, but one should be warned and wary of the following temptations:

 

1.       To have even the slightest dealings with clergymen.

2.       To think about your purpose in the land only when you have arrived there.

3.       To test your vocation on the heathen once you are among them.                                                         

4.       To give up because something doesn’t work out right away.

5.       To make your home too comfortable and forget that you are a pilgrim among the nations.

6.       To be prejudiced against the heathen if they are neither efficient nor pious.

7.       To seek even the slightest advantage at the expense of your brothers.

8.       To focus only on difficulties, and forget how much the Savior has helped you.

9.       To forget that one can do far more with a believing heart than with many words.

10.   To judge your colleagues solely by their personalities.

11.   To make a general rule of the experiences that you or a few others have had.

12.   To make so many plans that in the end you don’t complete any.

13.   To create new articles of faith to suit your situation.

14.   To become unforgiving and vindictive.

15.   To lose sight of the Savior.

16.   To let a quarrel last longer than a day.

17.   To reflect and think that if you were somewhere else things would be different.

18.   To give the devil an opportunity to outwit you and rob you of peace.

19.   To accept anything that displeases the Lord.

20.   To embellish the heathen with the names of other people.

Count Zinzendorf eventually founded the Order of the Mustard Seed, which had three guiding 

principles: (1) to be kind to all people; (2) to seek their welfare; and (3) to win souls to Christ.

 Given our modern perspective, some of his guidelines could seem dated and unnecessary, but many of them deserve our prayerful reflection and consideration.

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

IS POLITICAL CORRECTNESS CORRECT?

IS POLITICAL CORRECTNESS CORRECT?

 In our society, there is such an emphasis on political correctness that it seems impossible to take a strong stand on any matter without being deemed offensive, harsh, insensitive, or judgmental.  At a recent conference of seminary educators, one professor reported that the most damaging charge any student can make against another is that he or she is being too judgmental.  Describing this teaching environment as unproductive and upsetting, he reported that “you can’t get a good argument going in class anymore.  As soon as someone takes a stand on any important issue, someone else says that the person is being judgmental.  And that’s it.  End of discussion.  Everyone is intimidated.”  Many professors in attendance at this gathering nodded knowingly.  There was a definite consensus that the fear of being judgmental has taken on epic proportions.

 Richard Mouw, the former president of Fuller Theological Seminary, wrote a book entitled, “Uncommon Decency,” in which he raises serious questions about society’s epidemic emphasis on civility.  He writes, “Christian civility does not commit us to a relativistic perspective.  Being civil doesn't mean that we cannot criticize what goes on around us.  Civility doesn't require us to approve of what other people believe and do.  It is one thing to insist that other people have the right to express their basic convictions; it is another thing to say that they are right.  Civility requires us to live by the first of these principles.  But it does not commit us to the second.  To say that all beliefs and values deserve to be treated as if they were on a par is to endorse relativism – a perspective that is incompatible with Christian faith and practice.”

 I strongly agree with Dr. Mouw’s viewpoint on this matter.  For example, when anyone teaches biblical truth that does not align itself with the gay lifestyle, he or she will likely be labeled as homophobic.  If the Bible’s teachings are true, then the question is begged: ‘Is GOD homophobic?’  Since one tenet common to all faiths is that the nature and character of God is love, then the obvious answer to the previously posed question is “NO.”  To disagree with a lifestyle choice is not the same thing as despising the person who practices that lifestyle.  This is an error that is quite pervasive (and entirely erroneous) in contemporary society.

 Therefore, the community of faith must be courageous and consistent enough to hold fast to the eternal truth of scripture – without wavering – never conceding to popular opinion or pressure.  To be sure, there are some things that our Creator deems to be right, and some things that He clearly identifies as wrong.  Let us determine to find ourselves in agreement with Him at all times and places, and never caving to any individual or institution that would cause us to doubt or deny the immutable truth of God’s Word.  In the wise words of the Apostle Paul, “Let God be true, and every man a liar.” (Romans 3:4)

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

PARENTING: THE GREATEST CHALLENGE

PARENTING: THE GREATEST CHALLENGE

 Anyone who has raised a child would likely confess that parenting is among the most difficult jobs on the planet.  According to The Holy Writ, “children are a heritage from the Lord.” (Psalm 127:3)  However, on a day-to-day basis, it becomes quite challenging for most of us to maintain such a balanced and biblical perspective.

 Sometimes, parents, our thoughts seem to be all over the map: ‘Should I offer an ample dose of ‘tough love’ for any ill decisions or misdeeds that arise?’  Or, ‘Should I be that parent who provides an ongoing infusion of unconditional love and support, regardless of my child’s conduct and choices?’

 Parenting involves high anxiety because it means a constant struggle (or should I say warfare?) against the all-pervasive, dominant, cultural influences of peer pressure, pop culture and amoral media.  I love the way columnist, Ellen Goodman, frames it.  “At some point between Lamaze and PTA, it becomes clear that one of your main jobs as a parent is to counter the culture.  What the media deliver to children by the masses, you are expected to rebut one at a time.  Parents are expected to protect their children from an increasingly hostile environment and screen virtually every aspect of their children's lives.  To check the ratings on the movies, to read the labels on the CDs, to find out if there’s illicit music playing in the house next door.  All the while keeping in touch with school, and in your free time, earning a living!”

 Kindly excuse my poor grammar, but parenting ain’t easy!  In fact, it’s downright exhausting.

 Barbara Dafoe Whitehead, a research associate at the Institute for American Values, reports that “a common complaint from parents is their sense of being overwhelmed by the culture.  They feel much more helpless than their own parents felt.”  Indeed, Christian parents see themselves in a life-or-death struggle for the hearts and minds of their children.

 One of the more troublesome experiences of parenthood is seeing your less-than-ideal traits surfacing randomly in your children.  Author Gore Vidal put it this way.  “All children alarm their parents, if only because you are forever expecting to encounter yourself.”  Mr. Vidal, I’m sure most of us can relate.

 We try various and sundry methods to reach our children, i.e. to communicate effectively with them.  Some parents find humor to be a possible connection.  President Harry Truman jokingly remarked, “I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and then advise them to do it.”  Obviously, he was kidding since children need sound advice and structure if they are to stretch toward their potential and become productive and ethical people, as God intends.

 Recently, I read Dr. James Dobson’s commentary that focuses on how self-esteem affects the values of our children.  An excerpt is reprinted below:

 According to a recent study, young men with high self-esteem shared some common childhood influences.  There were common characteristics in their families.  (1) The high-esteem group was clearly more loved and appreciated at home than the low-esteem group.  (2) The high-esteem group came from homes where parents had been significantly more strict in their approach to discipline.  By contrast, the parents of the low-esteem group created insecurity and dependence through their permissiveness.  Their children were more likely to feel that the rules were not enforced because no one cared enough to really get involved. 

 But here’s the bottom-line.  In the words of Anne Frank, “Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person’s character lies in their own hands.”  However, to maximize the opportunity for our children and grandchildren to arrive at their true purpose and destiny, we must ensure that they are exposed early to Christ and Christian values.

 In closing, my parental advice is rather simple:  Love.  Communicate.  Set boundaries.  Offer correction.  Be present.  Be consistent.  Forgive.  Restore.  Follow the Word.  Pray. 

EVERYONE COUNTS

EVERYONE COUNTS

 In a world where most of us seek to stand out and garner accolades from the crowd, feelings of insecurity, fragility and low self-worth have become an emotional pandemic.  They absolutely abound and they always abase.  As a result, we are psychologically diminished, feeling ‘less’ than we actually are because we have been brainwashed into thinking (and thus living) so.

 Today, it is my intention to reclaim or renew your God-given significance.  Whether you seem to have arrived, or not; whether you are deemed to be accomplished, or not – you have unquestionable value.  You matter.  Indeed, every single one of God’s creations eternally counts.

 For further enlightenment, consider this dialogue between the participants/parts of a child’s kite:

 Who flies the kite?  “I,” said the boy, “it is my joy that flies the kite.”

Who flies the kite?  “I,” said the wind, “it is my whim that flies the kite.”

Who flies the kite?  “I,” said the string, “it is my connection that flies the kite.”

Who flies the kite?  “I,” said the tail, “it is my balance that flies the kite.”

Who flies the kite?  All are wrong because all are right. No one solely flies the kite.  ALL fly the kite!

 As a young child, I recall my father-pastor expounding on the importance of individual commitment and team participation.  He cited Isaiah 41:6-7 as the scripture reference:

 “Everyone helped his neighbor, and said to his brother, “Be of good courage!”  So the craftsman encouraged the goldsmith; he who smooths with the hammer inspired him who strikes the anvil, saying, “It is ready for the soldering.” Then he fastened it with pegs, that it might not totter.”

 Without the realization of your necessary part in the process, the building would be incomplete.

 You see, it matters not whether you are the engine or the caboose, the captain or the crewman, the CEO or the janitor.  In God’s divine economy, EVERYONE COUNTS.  Never forget that principle, and you will have taken a mission-critical first step on the road to lasting peace and security in this life.

 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 FAITH?

WHAT IS FAITH?

 Faith is a courageous walk in a total blackout with the constant conviction that there shall be light.  To wit, faith is not just a mind thing; it is actually a heart thing.  Some feel sure that faith is solely the result of one’s increase in understanding, but just the opposite is true.  In the words of St. Augustine, “Understanding is the reward of faith.  Therefore seek not to understand that you may believe, but believe that you may understand.”

 Faith is empowered to penetrate darkness, simply because it ignores it.  Consider the story of a young boy who was forced to flee to the rooftop of his family’s burning home.  His father stood outside on the yard below with outstretched arms, pleading with his son, “Jump!  I'll catch you!  Jump!”  He knew that his son had to jump in order to save his life.  But all that the young child could see were flames, smoke and blackness.  He was literally petrified and paralyzed at the thought of leaping from that high pinnacle into the darkness below.  His father kept yelling: “Jump! I'll catch you!”  But the boy loudly protested, “Daddy, I can't see you!”  The father calmly responded, “But I can see you, and that’s all that matters.”  Wow!  Faith aligns itself with the vision of God.  He sees us, and that’s all that matters.

 Therefore, faith is believing God against all odds – confronting and surviving the fiery flames of life with sheer confidence that our Father will rescue, if it be His will.  I love the way Oswald Chambers frames it in his book, “Run Today’s Race.”  Chambers wrote, “Faith for my deliverance is not faith in God.  Faith means, whether I am visibly delivered or not, I will stick to my belief that God is love.  There are some things only learned in a fiery furnace.”  That, my friend, is unquestionable truth.

 Since we are neither the originators nor the arbitrators of true faith, we need never defend it.  In fact, it is virtually impossible for us to do so.  According to Thomas Aquinas, “To one who has faith, no explanation is needed.  To one without faith, no explanation is possible.” So don’t debate your faith.  Just create sufficient space for God to endow it, demonstrate it, grow it, and sustain it.

 What is faith?  Faith is the proactive result of internalizing, proclaiming and standing (blindly and fearlessly) on the sure promises of God.  Certainly, it can be enhanced by our Christian experience, i.e. “the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith.” (Romans 1:17)  But at its core, faith is best understood as a trusting child armed with confidence in his Father’s love, grace, mercy and power.

 The Apostle Paul expressed it best.  “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)  Fellow winner-believer, stand on your faith.  For while many fall prey to doubting, your task as God’s Kingdom Kid is to always be found faith-ing your way through this tedious and miraculous journey called life.  Faith honors God, and God honors faith. 

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

IT'S ONLY THE STIRRING OF YOUR NEST!

IT’S ONLY THE STIRRING OF YOUR NEST!

 A necessary precursor and prerequisite of growth is change.  However, it is absolutely challenging to be compelled to exit our comfort zones.  That’s why the newborn baby cries after a sudden departure from the warm, insulated womb.  That’s why the five-year-old child cries profusely when s/he enters kindergarten in what likely feels like a forced exile from the family home.  Various ages and stages of life require major emotional adjustment as we stretch ourselves to navigate the uncertainty of unfamiliar ground.

 Let’s contemplate the eagle’s development as a mirror of our own.  We’ve all seen pictures of the eagle’s majestic nest, perched high in the branches of a lofty tree or in the crag of a cliff.  But most are not privy to the brilliant craftsmanship of the nest construction process.  When a mother eagle builds her nest, she first lays a foundation of thorns, sticks and sharp rocks – materials that seem entirely unsuitable to provide a safe habitat for her young.  But then she lines the top of the nest with a thick padding of wool, feathers and fur, making it extremely soft, safe and comfortable for her eggs and hatchlings.  By the time the growing birds reach flying age, the comfort of the nest and the luxury of free meals make them rather reluctant to leave.

 That’s precisely when the mother eagle “stirs up the nest.”  (Deuteronomy 32:11)  With her strong talons, she begins pulling up the thick carpet of fur and feathers, bringing the sharp thorns, rocks and branches to the surface.  As more of the soft bedding gets plucked up, the nest becomes extremely uncomfortable for the young eagles.  Eventually, this prompts the growing eagles to leave their once-comfortable abode and move forward in flight, which represents greater risk but more maturity.

 My friend, stop cursing the thorns.  Perhaps, Heaven is simply stirring your familiar nest to precipitate an empowering movement of growth and development.  In this next phase of life, you will discern more of the image and power of Christ, and thus more of your true purpose and destiny.  Change becomes you; and you will fly!

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

ASSUMPTIONS ARE DANGEROUS

ASSUMPTIONS ARE DANGEROUS

 Making assumptions can be rather risky business.  Even though that is definitely the case, would you kindly allow me a bit of humor to make my point?

 The photographer for a national magazine was assigned to get photos of a great forest fire.  Smoke at the scene hampered him and he asked his home office to hire a plane.  Arrangements were made and he was told to go at once to a nearby airport where the plane would be waiting.  When he arrived at the airport, a plane was warming up near the runway.  He jumped in with his equipment and yelled, “Let's go! Let's go!”  The pilot swung the plane into the wind and they were soon in the air.  “Fly over the north side of the fire,” yelled the photographer, “and make three or four low level passes.”  “Why?” asked the pilot.  “Because I’m going to take pictures!” cried the exasperated photographer. “I'm a photographer and photographers take pictures!”  After a pause the pilot said, “You mean you're not the instructor?”  No happy ending for this assumptive tale! 

 A violinist noticed that his playing had a profoundly hypnotic effect on his audiences.  They sat motionless, as though they were in a trance.  He found he had the same effect on his friends’ pets.  Dogs and cats would sit spellbound while he played.  Wondering if he could cast the same spell over wild beasts, he travelled to a jungle clearing in Africa, took out his violin and began to play.  A lion, a gorilla and an elephant charged into the clearing, stopped to listen, and sat mesmerized by the music.  Soon the clearing was filled with every kind of ferocious animal, each one listening ever so intently.  Suddenly another lion charged out of the jungle, pounced on the violinist, and killed him instantly.  The first lion, bewildered, asked, “Why did you do that?”  The second lion cupped his paw behind his ear. “What?”  Lesson learned, the hard way!

 Careful listening is not only an indispensable communication tool, it can be a matter of life or death.  So listen.  And in relationships of any kind, never ever assume that you automatically know where other people are coming from…unless and until you DO know exactly where they are coming from!

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

AMAZING GRACE

AMAZING GRACE

 The classic hymn, “Amazing Grace,” is arguably the most beloved hymn of Christendom.  Its highly inspirational message has a phenomenal impact on Christians everywhere; this popular hymn is estimated to be sung in churches at least 10 million times every year.

 Interestingly enough, “Amazing Grace” was written by a former enslaver of Africans.  John Newton was a Londoner, born in 1725 to a Puritan mother who died just before his seventh birthday, and to a stern ship-captain-father who took him to sea at the tender age of eleven.  John became a rough and rowdy sailor with a reputation for having a foul mouth and an appetite for all things immoral.  He seemed to hate life and he was convinced that life detested him.  Following many sea voyages and a reckless youth, Newton was impressed into the British navy.  After attempting to desert from the navy, he was brutally beaten with eight dozen lashes and reduced to the rank of seaman. 

 While serving later on The Pegasus, a slave ship, Newton seemed perpetually at odds with the crew, which eventually left him in West Africa with Amos Clowe, an enslaver.  Later on, John Newton became captain of his own slave ship.  At some point, he came across a copy of Thomas a Kempis’ “The Imitation of Christ.”  When Newton accepted Christ as Savior, he travelled all over England sharing his faith. 

 However, 34 years passed before he formally renounced his former sinful profession in a pamphlet entitled, “Thoughts Upon the Slave Trade.”  In it, he described the inhumane conditions on slave ships and sincerely apologized for participating in that horrific trade.  He wrote, “It will always be a subject of humiliating reflection to me, that I was once an active instrument in a business at which my heart now shudders.”  Newton’s pamphlet was so popular that it was reprinted several times and distributed to every member of Parliament.  It was directly influential in outlawing slavery in Great Britain in 1807, with the help of the Christian leader, William Wilberforce. 

 Sometimes God uses those who have fallen very deeply into sin to proclaim the most unique, anointed and clear messages of gospel grace.  Undoubtedly, “Amazing Grace” is the spiritual capstone of John Newton’s ministry, and its awesome lyrics are printed below:

 

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me;
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see.

 

‘Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear
And Grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

 

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
‘Twas Grace that brought me safe thus far
And Grace will lead me home.

When we’ve been there ten thousand years,

Bright shining as the sun;

We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise

Than when we’ve first begun.

Amen, John Newton, Amen!  It’s God’s unmerited favor bestowed so freely upon us.

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

THE TRUTH ABOUT TRUTH

 THE TRUTH ABOUT TRUTH

 Upon the completion of academic studies at Fisk, Harvard and the University of Berlin, William Edward Burghardt DuBois , the renowned black educator, sociologist and historian, was convinced that change in the condition of American blacks would be effected via careful scientific investigations into the truth about the black experience in America.  So his research proceeded on that premise, producing flawless graphs and charts to document his findings.  After waiting for several years and seeing not the slightest evidence of reform, Dr. DuBois had to accept the truth about truth.  That is, truth being available does not mean that truth will be accepted and appropriated.

 It’s quite difficult to conceptualize or wrap our brains around the awesome volume of knowledge that is accessible in the 21^st century.  In 1979, “Campus Life” published the following statement: “Knowledge is exploding at such a rate--more than 2000 pages a minute--that even Einstein couldn't keep up.  In fact, if you read 24 hours a day, from age 21 to 70, and retain all you read, you would be one and a half million years behind when you finish.”  Wow!  It is now generally believed that the sum total of human knowledge actually doubles every 13 months, with scientists projecting that in the near future knowledge will double every 12 hours.  That’s truly mind-blowing!

 But with all of our learning, are we actually achieving the wisdom that comes from the acquisition and application of TRUTH?  It seems that half-truths and falsehoods are the communication realities of our time.  It feels like we are being literally swept away by tsunamis of doubt and deceit.  So many are curiously drawn to magnetic tides of falsity, fantasy and deception in our public discourse.  Where will it end? 

 Governor Pilate asked Jesus Christ a question for the ages: “What is truth?” (John 18:38)  Christian disciples have keen awareness that truth is never relative (as some suggest), but truth is immutable, revelatory, life-changing and eternal.  To wit, TRUTH IS JESUS CHRIST.  In His words, “I am the way, the truth and the life.” (John 14:6)  While we aim to be life-long learners, any so-called knowledge that does not fully engage and embrace Christ is sheer folly.  It is devoid of truth, and thus totally lacking in wisdom.

 I am personally persuaded that the Apostle Paul got it right.  His highest ambition was simply this: “That I may know HIM, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings.” (Philippians 3:10)  Whether we realize it or not, whether the world is conscious of it or not, their spirits are still crying out, “We would see JESUS!”  After all, HE is the truth about TRUTH.

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

VISION

VISION

 My friends, prayerfully consider this.  What are seeing?  Just as importantly, how long will you persist in seeing it when confronted with the inevitable challenges of time and trouble?

 Nearly four centuries ago a shipload of travelers landed on the northeast coast of America.  The first year, they established a town site.  The second year, they elected a town government.  The third year, the town government planned to build a road five miles westward into the wilderness.  In the fourth year, the citizens tried to impeach their town government because they considered it a waste of public funds to build a road five miles westward into a wilderness.  Their position: ‘Who needs to go there anyway?’

 Remember that these were people who had sufficient vision to see three thousand miles across an ocean and the determination to overcome great hardships to arrive there.  But in just a few years they were not able to ‘see’ even five miles out of town.  They had lost their pioneering vision.  Lesson learned.  With a clear vision of what we can become in life (and in Christ), no ocean of difficulty is too great.  Should we lose that vision, we cannot move beyond our current boundaries.  Think.

 Bill Hybels relates a vision story in his book entitled, “Who You Are When No One’s Looking.”  It started like so many evenings, Mom and Dad at home and Jimmy playing after dinner.  It was a full moon and some of the light seeped through the windows.  Jimmy’s parents were absorbed in various tasks and did not notice the passing of time.  Then Mom glanced at the clock. “Jimmy, it's time to go to bed.  Go up now and I’ll come and settle you later.”  Jimmy went straight upstairs to his room.  An hour or so later his mother came to check on him.  To her astonishment, her son was staring quietly out of his window at the moonlit scenery.  “What are you doing, Jimmy?”  “I'm looking at the moon, Mommy.”  “Well, it's time to get into bed now.”  As the excited and reluctant boy settled down, he remarked confidently, “Mommy, you know one day I’m going to walk on the moon.”  Who could have known that the boy in whom the dream was planted that night would survive a near fatal motorbike crash which broke almost every bone in his body, and would bring to fruition his childhood dream about 32 years later when James Irwin stepped on the moon's surface, just one of the 12 members of the human race to have done so?  

 True vision means seeing, believing, reaching and achieving.  Just do it.

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

IT IS WELL!

 IT IS WELL!

 Many of Christianity’s inspirational songs were written in the wake of deeply troubling times.  Such is the case with the classic hymn, “It is Well with My Soul.”  Its music was composed by Philip Paul Bliss, but the powerful lyrics were penned by Horatio G. Spafford.  The back story is a blend of deep sorrow and life-changing faith.

 It’s so strange how life’s dreams can turn on a dime, so to speak.  Horatio Spafford was keenly aware of the profound impact of unexpected challenges.  Although he was a successful attorney and real estate investor, Horatio lost most of his fortune in the great Chicago fire of 1871.  In that same year, his beloved four-year-old son succumbed to scarlet fever.

 Believing that a vacation might prove beneficial for his family, he sent his wife and four daughters to England, promising to join them once his business was completed.  However, during the transatlantic crossing, their ship had a collision which tragically claimed the lives of 200 people, including all four of Horatio’s daughters.

 Having survived that horrific accident, Horatio’s wife, Anna, telegrammed with two sorrowful sentences: “Saved alone.  What shall I do?”

 Horatio was devastated and soon set sail for London.  Because the ship captain was aware of his passenger’s plight, he summoned Horatio when they arrived at the location where his daughters had lost their lives.  As he contemplated his deep loss and profound faith in the sovereignty of God, Horatio penned these words, which later became the world-renowned hymn:

 When peace like a river, attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll—

Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say

It is well, it is well with my soul.

 My friends, it is an incomparable consolation to encounter the presence of Almighty God while traversing the depths of pain, loss and despair.  No matter what you are presently experiencing, remember the encouraging words of Jesus Christ, “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” (John 14:18)  “And lo, I am with you always, even unto the end.” (Matthew 28:20)  In the words of the Apostle Paul, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)  Therefore, nothing “shall separate us from the love of God.” (Romans 8:39)  For that reason alone, that HE is with us, we are absolutely sure that It is well…

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

DO YOU REALLY WANT TO BE ANGRY?

 DO YOU REALLY WANT TO BE ANGRY?

 One of the most intriguing sights to behold is an individual who is completely caught up in a whirlpool of anger.  I love what Ben Franklin wrote about it.  “Anger is never without a reason, but seldom with a good one.” 

 Anger is somewhat fascinating since it is a flaw that feels somewhat satisfying when you fully surrender to it.  In his book, “Wishful Thinking Transformed by Thorns,” Frederick Buechner writes, “Of the seven deadly sins, anger is possibly the most fun.  To lick your wounds, to smack your lips over grievances long past, to roll over your tongue the prospect of bitter confrontations still to come, to savor to the last toothsome morsel both the pain you are given and the pain you are giving back--in many ways it is a feast fit for a king.  The chief drawback is that what you are wolfing down is yourself.  The skeleton at the feast is you.”  Hmm…pardon the pun, but that’s quite a mouthful to ponder.

 Allow me a moment of transparency.  In earlier days, I suffered from what ‘felt’ like inevitable appointments with anger.  In later years, I learned a priceless life lesson about self-control.  That is, in any situation you lose when you allow another person sufficient control of your temperament to produce attitudes or actions outside of your core character.  Uncontrollable anger is a destructive undertaking which only earns a fool’s reward.

 Continual anger even has a detrimental impact on health.  Doctors from Coral Gables, Florida compared the efficiency of the heart’s pumping action in 18 men with coronary artery disease to nine healthy control subjects.  Each of the study participants underwent one physical stress test (riding an exercise bicycle) and three mental stress tests (doing math problems in their heads, recalling a recent incident that had made them angry, and giving a short speech to defend against a hypothetical charge of shoplifting).  Using advanced radiology, the doctors examined the subjects’ hearts in action during these tests.  For all the subjects, anger reduced the amount of blood that the heart pumped to body tissues more than the other tests, but this was especially true for those who had heart disease.  They found anger to be much more potent and harmful than fear or other kinds of mental stress.  

 One of our wisest presidents, Abraham Lincoln, offered helpful counsel to his secretary of war, Edwin Stanton, who had been angered by an army officer who accused him of favoritism.  Stanton complained about this to Lincoln, who suggested that he write that officer a very sharp letter.  Stanton did so, and showed the strongly worded missive to the president.  “What are you going to do with it?” Lincoln inquired.  Surprised, Stanton replied, “Send it, of course!"  Lincoln shook his head. “You don't want to send that letter,” he said.  “Put it in the stove.  That’s what I do when I’ve written a letter while I’m angry.  It’s a good letter, Edwin, and you had a good time writing it.  You feel better.  Now burn it, and write another.”  Sage advice.

 My friend, before you press down on the accelerator of your mouth, always engage the clutch of your heart and apply the brakes of your brain.  You’ll live much longer and more peacefully.

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

THE MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS

 THE MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS

 It has often been said that kindness is a virtue, but not everyone would necessarily agree.  This calls to mind William Shakespeare’s play, “Macbeth,” in which Lady Macbeth complains that her husband is “too full of the milk of human kindness” to kill off his rivals.  In fact, some might consider kindness to be synonymous with weakness.  It is not.  Kindness reflects its own unique brand of strength.

 One wonderful example of this benevolent trait is the British statesman, Cecil Rhodes, whose fortune was used to endow the world-famous Rhodes Scholarships.  Rhodes was a stickler for correct dress, but apparently not at the expense of someone else’s feelings.  A young man who had been invited to dine with Rhodes arrived late by train and circumstance forced him to go directly to Rhodes’s home in his wrinkled and shabby travel clothes. Once there, he was utterly appalled to find that the other guests had arrived wearing full evening dress.  After what seemed like a long time, Rhodes appeared in an old, worn-looking, every day suit.  Later, the young man learned that his host had been originally dressed in fine evening clothes, but put on that old suit when he learned of his guest's dilemma.  Rhodes was far more concerned with the young man’s comfort than bent on impressing the crowd.  Now that’s kindness!

 According to Alexander Maclaren, kindness actually makes anyone far more attractive.  He wrote, “If you would win the world, melt it, do not hammer it.”  I once read that the English playwright, Somerset Maughan, had a mother who was extraordinarily beautiful.  But she opted to marry his father, whom some quite rudely described as extraordinarily ugly.  When a close family friend inquired as to why Mrs. Maughan had chosen such an unlikely suitor, her response came quickly and confidently: “He has never once hurt my feelings!”  In truth, kindness is both handsome and beautiful!

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