Love Is A Choice….

Love always gives you a choice. God always gives us a choice, but those choices have consequences. If we choose to follow other gods, God allows us to pursue these pseudo-gods. Gideon’s Father tells the village where He lives, if Baal (the god they worshipped) is real, let him defend himself. If those that reject God allowed themselves to accept the reality of Who God really is, maybe they wouldn’t be so hateful towards those who put their faith in Him. God always gives us a choice, His love for us cannot be expressed in any other way. When someone truly loves you, they will always give you a choice, because that the sign of true love (that only comes God). Letting someone defend their beliefs is a sign from God; it’s His way of giving people the freedom to choose and serve Him, or choose and serve something other than Him. True Love changes everything.

31 But Joash shouted to the mob that confronted him, “Why are you defending Baal? Will you argue his case? Whoever pleads his case will be put to death by morning! If Baal truly is a god, let him defend himself and destroy the one who broke down his altar!” 32 From then on Gideon was called Jerub-baal, which means “Let Baal defend himself,” because he broke down Baal’s altar. Judges 6:31-32

War Erupts In The Heart….

When a man chooses other gods, war erupts in his heart. The void that is birthed when we enter this world is only deepened with darker space when God is not welcomed in. Yet mankind craving his sinful nature, invents other gods to take His place. When man cannot gain the significance found only in God Himself, he settles for anything that brings him a hint of satisfaction, only to find out soon that counterfeits never fulfill their promises. It’s like an arrogant athlete “guaranteeing” victory, only to lay an egg performance in a humiliating defeat. God created a space that only He can fill, and until we invite Him in, chaos only increases in the war of our hearts.

When Israel chose new gods, war erupted at the city gates. Judges 5:8a

Half-Hearted Christians…

The world has nothing but contempt for half-hearted Christians.

34 “Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again?35 Flavorless salt is good neither for the soil nor for the manure pile. It is thrown away. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!” Luke 14:34-35

God Allows Enemies….

Have you ever thought about the reasons why God allows enemies to follow you? Here in Judges chapter 3 we see one of the reasons. Israel’s enemies were allowed to exist to test them, to see if they would be obedient to God’s commands. The next time you run into an enemy and are frustrated, ask yourself, Am I being obedient to God in this?” It just might make a difference.

4 These people were left to test the Israelites–to see whether they would obey the commands the Lord had given to their ancestors through Moses. Judges 3:4

The Main Thing….

Just think about how many people miss out on God’s blessings? How many people will miss out on Heaven, because of the misdirected priorities? The greatest thing people will ever do on earth is to keep the “main thing” the “MAIN THING”. We all know what that should be. God has certainly made it crystal clear.

15 Hearing this, a man sitting at the table with Jesus exclaimed, “What a blessing it will be to attend a banquet in the Kingdom of God!”16 Jesus replied with this story: “A man prepared a great feast and sent out many invitations. 17 When the banquet was ready, he sent his servant to tell the guests, ‘Come, the banquet is ready.’18 But they all began making excuses. One said, ‘I have just bought a field and must inspect it. Please excuse me.’19 Another said, ‘I have just bought five pairs of oxen, and I want to try them out. Please excuse me.’20 Another said, ‘I now have a wife, so I can’t come.’21 “The servant returned and told his master what they had said. His master was furious and said, ‘Go quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and invite the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.’22 After the servant had done this, he reported, ‘There is still room for more.’23 So his master said, ‘Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full.24 For none of those I first invited will get even the smallest taste of my banquet.’ ” Luke 14:15-24

Thinking Of Yourself Less….

Jesus could not have given a better example of the attitude and outlook we should have in this life. When our focus is on helping others, honoring others, and not on promoting ourselves, greater rewards await us. The “I deserve this” attitude, or even the current “entitlement” attitude we see today only prove to us that humility is not a common day virtue. Humility is a godly virtue. And only those that pursue God and ask Him to help with this kind of attitude value it. When is the last time you sat at the lowliest place in the room? Honored someone else by giving up your seat on a bus or public place? Or didn’t care who gets the credit when doing a job with others? God will always honor those that display true humility. And it’s not thinking less of yourself, it’s just putting others ahead of your selfish thoughts. It’s thinking of yourself, less.

7 When Jesus noticed that all who had come to the dinner were trying to sit in the seats of honor near the head of the table, He gave them this advice: 8 “When you are invited to a wedding feast, don’t sit in the seat of honor. What if someone who is more distinguished than you has also been invited?9 The host will come and say, ‘Give this person your seat.’ Then you will be embarrassed, and you will have to take whatever seat is left at the foot of the table!10 “Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, ‘Friend, we have a better place for you!’ Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests.11 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 14:7-11

Leaders Make A Difference…

Leaders make a difference in organizations. If they are godly, the organization usually thrives. If they are worldly, the organization may thrive for a period of time, but will eventually succumb to its worldly ways. The Israelites were successful when God appointed judges in the land. But when these judges died, their success disappeared as they gave way to idolatry that was practiced in the land by its original inhabitants. The value of good, godly leaders is invaluable, and paramount to the lasting resolve of a family, business, organization, or country. Never discount the significance of a great leader. Ask God today to help make you one in your family, or organization. You will bring Him glory while you lead people to truth.

16 Then the Lord raised up judges to rescue the Israelites from their attackers. 17 Yet Israel did not listen to the judges but prostituted themselves by worshiping other gods. How quickly they turned away from the path of their ancestors, who had walked in obedience to the Lord’s commands.18 Whenever the Lord raised up a judge over Israel, He was with that judge and rescued the people from their enemies throughout the judge’s lifetime. For the Lord took pity on His people, who were burdened by oppression and suffering. 19 But when the judge died, the people returned to their corrupt ways, behaving worse than those who had lived before them. They went after other gods, serving and worshiping them. And they refused to give up their evil practices and stubborn ways.20 So the Lord burned with anger against Israel. He said, “Because these people have violated My covenant, which I made with their ancestors, and have ignored My commands, 21 I will no longer drive out the nations that Joshua left unconquered when he died. 22 I did this to test Israel–to see whether or not they would follow the ways of the Lord as their ancestors did.” 23 That is why the Lord left those nations in place. He did not quickly drive them out or allow Joshua to conquer them all. Judges 2:16-23

When Parents Fail To Teach….

When parents fail to teach their children about the Lord, entire societies suffer the consequences. A glimpse into modern America is evidence of this truth. After Joshua’s death, a generation arose that did not acknowledge or remember what God had done for them. And they paid the price for it. America will do the same unless it repents and turns back to Him.

10 After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the Lord or remember the mighty things He had done for Israel.11 The Israelites did evil in the Lord’s sight and served the images of Baal. 12 They abandoned the Lord, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They went after other gods, worshiping the gods of the people around them. And they angered the Lord. 13 They abandoned the Lord to serve Baal and the images of Ashtoreth. 14 This made the Lord burn with anger against Israel, so He handed them over to raiders who stole their possessions. He turned them over to their enemies all around, and they were no longer able to resist them. 15 Every time Israel went out to battle, the Lord fought against them, causing them to be defeated, just as He had warned. And the people were in great distress. Judges 2:10-15

True Justice…

It’s just amazing how God works. His justice always prevails. Evil will always be punished, and the majority of the time it will be with the very same method it was acted out with. True Justice only comes from God.

6 Adoni-bezek escaped, but the Israelites soon captured him and cut off his thumbs and big toes.7 Adoni-bezek said, “I once had seventy kings with their thumbs and big toes cut off, eating scraps from under my table. Now God has paid me back for what I did to them.” They took him to Jerusalem, and he died there. Judges 1:6-7

To Whom Shall We Go….

God rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, and so Jesus rescues us from slavery to Sin. This is just a clear picture of what God does for us. Just like the choice God gave the Israelites, to serve Him or serve the other gods, so He gives us the same choice. Love always gives us a choice. If it doesn’t, it isn’t real love. How do you respond to God’s love? In words? in deeds? Authentically? Joshua responded with loyalty, and boldness proclaiming his allegiance to God. I can’t help but think of Peter’s response to Jesus when he was asked, “are you going to leave too?” Peter responded, “to Whom shall we go? You are the Way of life”. Serve Him well.

1 Then Joshua summoned all the tribes of Israel to Shechem, including their elders, leaders, judges, and officers. So they came and presented themselves to God.2 Joshua said to the people, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: Long ago your ancestors, including Terah, the father of Abraham and Nahor, lived beyond the Euphrates River, and they worshiped other gods. 3 But I took your ancestor Abraham from the land beyond the Euphrates and led him into the land of Canaan. I gave him many descendants through his son Isaac. 4 To Isaac I gave Jacob and Esau. To Esau I gave the mountains of Seir, while Jacob and his children went down into Egypt.5 “Then I sent Moses and Aaron, and I brought terrible plagues on Egypt; and afterward I brought you out as a free people. 6 But when your ancestors arrived at the Red Sea, the Egyptians chased after you with chariots and charioteers. 7 When your ancestors cried out to the Lord, I put darkness between you and the Egyptians. I brought the sea crashing down on the Egyptians, drowning them. With your very own eyes you saw what I did. Then you lived in the wilderness for many years.8 “Finally, I brought you into the land of the Amorites on the east side of the Jordan. They fought against you, but I destroyed them before you. I gave you victory over them, and you took possession of their land. 9 Then Balak son of Zippor, king of Moab, started a war against Israel. He summoned Balaam son of Beor to curse you, 10 but I would not listen to him. Instead, I made Balaam bless you, and so I rescued you from Balak.11 “When you crossed the Jordan River and came to Jericho, the men of Jericho fought against you, as did the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. But I gave you victory over them. 12 And I sent terror ahead of you to drive out the two kings of the Amorites. It was not your swords or bows that brought you victory. 13 I gave you land you had not worked on, and I gave you towns you did not build–the towns where you are now living. I gave you vineyards and olive groves for food, though you did not plant them.14 “So fear the Lord and serve Him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. 15 But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”16 The people replied, “We would never abandon the Lord and serve other gods. 17 For the Lord our God is the One who rescued us and our ancestors from slavery in the land of Egypt. He performed mighty miracles before our very eyes. As we traveled through the wilderness among our enemies, He preserved us. 18 It was the Lord who drove out the Amorites and the other nations living here in the land. So we, too, will serve the Lord, for He alone is our God.”19 Then Joshua warned the people, “You are not able to serve the Lord, for He is a holy and jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. 20 If you abandon the Lord and serve other gods, He will turn against you and destroy you, even though He has been so good to you.”21 But the people answered Joshua, “No, we will serve the Lord!”22 “You are a witness to your own decision,” Joshua said. “You have chosen to serve the Lord.”“Yes,” they replied, “we are witnesses to what we have said.”23 “All right then,” Joshua said, “destroy the idols among you, and turn your hearts to the Lord, the God of Israel.”24 The people said to Joshua, “We will serve the Lord our God. We will obey Him alone.”25 So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day at Shechem, committing them to follow the decrees and regulations of the Lord. 26 Joshua recorded these things in the Book of God’s Instructions. As a reminder of their agreement, he took a huge stone and rolled it beneath the terebinth tree beside the Tabernacle of the Lord.27 Joshua said to all the people, “This stone has heard everything the Lord said to us. It will be a witness to testify against you if you go back on your word to God.”28 Then Joshua sent all the people away to their own homelands. Joshua 24:1-28

Clinging, Your Reason For Being….

The key to the life of faith in Jesus is clinging to Him daily, moment by moment. There’s just no other substitute for it. You can gain the entire world without Him, but you’ll forfeit your soul in the process. When that happens, what seems to be gain will be your greatest loss. Abiding in the vine, as Jesus said, brings life. Disconnecting with the source of life only guarantees one thing, an artificial reality. There’s no real peace and joy in that. Cling to God today. He will authenticate your reason for being here by setting you free from the lures of this world.

8 Rather, cling tightly to the Lord your God as you have done until now. Joshua 23:8

Without Prayer….

People don’t always suffer as the result of their sin (being worse sinners). Sometimes people suffer to bring God glory. Sometimes it’s the result of someone else’s sin. Sometimes we don’t know the reason. Jesus makes this clear here in this passage in Luke chapter 13. When we start flinging answers to someone’s suffering we begin to tread on Holy ground. We must see the situation with spiritual eyes. If they are humble in heart, we extend them grace, to help usher in healing. If they are proud, we can gently share the Good News of repentance. Either way, we need to go before the Father first, so that we can get a clearer picture of how we should respond. Sometimes that means saying nothing, just being there for the sufferer. And sometimes that means telling them the truth, something they might not want to hear. Either way without starting with prayer, we may lead ourselves into disaster by trying to figure it out on our own.

1 About this time Jesus was informed that Pilate had murdered some people from Galilee as they were offering sacrifices at the Temple. 2 “Do you think those Galileans were worse sinners than all the other people from Galilee?” Jesus asked. “Is that why they suffered?3 Not at all! And you will perish, too, unless you repent of your sins and turn to God.4 And what about the eighteen people who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them? Were they the worst sinners in Jerusalem?5 No, and I tell you again that unless you repent, you will perish, too.” Luke 13:1-5

The Only True Way….

God’s way is the only true way. We can pretend we know the way, but in the end we are fallible. Stepping into the role of God only leads to our own demise. It’s why man has messed up everything since the garden. Never allow yourself to stray. Leave no room for doubts to this truth, it will guard your heart for life.

12 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 14:12

6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me. John 14:6

Sometimes, You Have To Get Dirty….

Life isn’t always easy. It can be hard at times. Really hard. It’s in those times that we have to make decisions that put us through trials, and difficult relationships. Doing the hard things isn’t fun or easy, but often necessary. Once we work through it, we reap the bounty of harvest (from doing the right thing). Sometimes we have to allow the possibility of things getting messy. The reward outweighs the risk every time we display the fruits of the spirit. God will honor those that honor Him. Sometimes you got to get dirty.

4 Without oxen a stable stays clean, but you need a strong ox for a large harvest. Proverbs 14:4

Regardless Of How We See God….

Regardless of how we see God, in the end He will be honored by all. Why fight it? Why not start honoring Him today, and save yourself a lot of pain and regret?

10 “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” Psalms 46:10

To Be A Witness…..

What does it mean to be a “witness”? Plainly stated, a witness expresses God is good and great. It’s done from a personal point of view. It’s done in both word and deed. To summarize, a witness shows others what God means to them. It is demonstrated with the way they live their life. It’s purpose is to show others God’s goodness, and that His greatness is available to all who believe. It is our duty to give the world a glimpse of Who God is; we do it by showing the world what He’s done for us. Simple isn’t it?

30 When Phinehas the priest and the leaders of the community–the heads of the clans of Israel–heard this from the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, they were satisfied. 31 Phinehas son of Eleazar, the priest, replied to them, “Today we know the Lord is among us because you have not committed this treachery against the Lord as we thought. Instead, you have rescued Israel from being destroyed by the hand of the Lord.”32 Then Phinehas son of Eleazar, the priest, and the other leaders left the tribes of Reuben and Gad in Gilead and returned to the land of Canaan to tell the Israelites what had happened. 33 And all the Israelites were satisfied and praised God and spoke no more of war against Reuben and Gad.34 The people of Reuben and Gad named the altar “Witness,” for they said, “It is a witness between us and them that the Lord is our God, too.” Joshua 22:30-34

Patience Is Key….

Patience is key in being a follower of Jesus. God will always do what He says He’ll do. God never renigs on a promise He’s made, it just may not be in within our expectational timeframe. This should always give us hope, the drive to press on, to never get tired of doing good. We just need to work on our ability to wait, for it’s just a matter of time when it comes to God fulfilling His promises. In the Israelites case it took about 45 years, to reach the Promised Land. In our case it may be today, tomorrow, or when we are ushered into His glory. Our patience will solidify our resolve once we establish a rock solid trust in our God.

44 And the Lord gave them rest on every side, just as He had solemnly promised their ancestors. None of their enemies could stand against them, for the Lord helped them conquer all their enemies. 45 Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything He had spoken came true. Joshua 21:44-45

Keep It Simple, AND Authentic…..

If there’s one thing I know, and keep in mind every time I share the gospel with others, it’s this: Jesus will offend some, and bring division in any group. People are so afraid these days to share the Gospel, in fear of offending, that they “water” it down to the point of it being so diluted it fails in its effectiveness. Actually, it fails because it’s no longer the Gospel. It becomes just a “feel good” piece of advice. Believers must understand that it’s Jesus Who offends. It’s Jesus Who divides. We are only the messengers. Yet, we will receive the abuse people display because of Him. Understand this right now, if you don’t keep the Gospel in tact when you are sharing it with others, you’re wasting your time. God’s word saves because it’s alive and active, stirring the hearts and souls of people. If you think it doesn’t, maybe you need to examine “your version” of the Gospel. You’ll find it isn’t the same one you read about in the Bible. Jesus divides, never forget this. It’s not our job to determine how people receive God’s word, that’s up to Him. Our job is to present the Truth in love, with gentleness and respect. That’s it. But we must be faithful in doing so, remembering the outcome is in His hands, not ours. Be bold today by presenting the Good News to a soul in desperate need of hearing it. Keep it simple, and authentic, and you will get a glimpse of how effective it really is.

49 “I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning!50 I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of Me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished.51 Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other!52 From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of Me, and two against–or two in favor and three against. 53 ‘Father will be divided against sonand son against father;mother against daughterand daughter against mother;and mother-in-law against daughter-in-lawand daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.’” Luke 12:49-53

Worrying A Lot Less….

Worry, what purpose does it serve? The only positive side to worry is it’s a reminder to us that we are not trusting God like we should. Could you imagine if animals worried? The world would truly be in a chaotic state. Fortunately for us God never gave animals that ability. That should show us that we need to trust Him more than we do. What is it that makes you worry? What is it that takes precedence in your life? What exactly happens when you worry? What’s the outcome? Is it ever exactly what you thought it would be? Kinda silly when you think about, isn’t it? When you do the thing you fear the most, death of fear is certain. And when you trust God with your life, and all it entails, death of worry is also certain. Focus on being faithful to the One Who Grants you this Faith. Train yourself to see spiritually. When you do, you’ll find yourself trusting God more, and worrying a lot less.

22 Then, turning to His disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life–whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. 23 For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing.24 Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to Him than any birds!25 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?26 And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?27 “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.28 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, He will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?29 “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things.30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs.31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.32 “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.33 “Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it.34 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Luke 12:22-34

NO To God….

Money is God’s way of seeing into our heart. It is a test to see where your true loyalty lies. It’s such a shame that we see it as a mean to say “no” to God.

13 Then someone called from the crowd, “Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father’s estate with me.”14 Jesus replied, “Friend, who made Me a judge over you to decide such things as that?” 15 Then He said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.”16 Then He told them a story: “A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. 17 He said to himself, ‘What should I do? I don’t have room for all my crops.’18 Then he said, ‘I know! I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods.19 And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!”’20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’21 “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” Luke 12:13-21

Never Worry About What To Say….

Part of being a Christian is never having to worry about what to say during important times. God will give you the exact words to say. I can vouch for this truth. I’ve been there and watched those words come out of my mouth, unscripted. Another reason why it’s important to get His Word in your heart. When the time comes, it will find it’s way out and accomplish its purposes.

11 “And when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and authorities, don’t worry about how to defend yourself or what to say,12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said.” Luke 12:11-12

A Healthy Fear And Reverence….

If there was one thing I could infuse in people it would be a healthy fear and reverence for God. Why? Because it determines everything. It determines how you treat people. It holds you accountable for your behavior. It sets the scene for how you handle fear, worry, and anxiety. And most importantly, it sets your spiritual thermostat; which determines the destiny of our soul. Having a healthy fear of God determines our attitude about life, and directly controls our mood regulator, especially when we “feel” like giving into to our feelings instead of doing what we know to be true. There’s a reason why God put this concept first in the 10 Commandments. It’s why it is the first and greatest of them all. Ask God today to establish the groundwork of a healthy fear and reverence for Him. Once it’s established, you’ll find more consistency in your daily living.

1 Meanwhile, the crowds grew until thousands were milling about and stepping on each other. Jesus turned first to His disciples and warned them, “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees–their hypocrisy. 2 The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all.3 Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!4 “Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that.5 But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, He’s the One to fear.6 “What is the price of five sparrows–two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them.7 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.8 “I tell you the truth, everyone who acknowledges Me publicly here on earth, the Son of Man will also acknowledge in the presence of God’s angels. 9 But anyone who denies Me here on earth will be denied before God’s angels.10 Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. Luke 12:1-10

Pride Is Disgusting….

If the most vile of offenders of God can repent, what does that show all people? The Queen of Sheba came to Solomon to hear His wisdom. She believed. The city of Nineveh believed Jonah’s message and repented. Why is it that people still to this day hear the Gospel and refuse to repent? Simple re Digustingstubborn pride. The Bible tells us that Nineveh will stand up against people of Jesus’ day and condemn them. If you knew how depraved Nineveh was, you’d think, “stubborn pride is more disgusting to God than any type of behavior”. When we are given the truth, and granted the opportunity to repent, we need to take part in it, otherwise we will be judged by God using the very people we see as vile. How does that thought sit with you?

29 As the crowd pressed in on Jesus, He said, “This evil generation keeps asking Me to show them a miraculous sign. But the only sign I will give them is the sign of Jonah. 30 What happened to him was a sign to the people of Nineveh that God had sent him. What happens to the Son of Man will be a sign to these people that He was sent by God.31 “The queen of Sheba will stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for she came from a distant land to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Now someone greater than Solomon is here–but you refuse to listen.32 The people of Nineveh will also stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for they repented of their sins at the preaching of Jonah. Now someone greater than Jonah is here–but you refuse to repent. Luke 11:29-32

Anything Goes….

It’s so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of politics and beliefs these days. The “anything goes” mentality will eventually backfire on those who oppose God’s ways. His ways are simple, and yet we forget, or get caught up in the “I have to make them more appealing” mode, and slowly drift away to our own demise. Here in Psalm 45 we read of the Psalmist writing a poem about the king. We read the king’s agenda is to defend truth, humility, and justice. That’s it. It’s exactly what God wants from us. It’s pretty simple when you really think about it. It only becomes an issue when we leave God out of the picture. We begin to make up our own truth. Without God, Truth, humility, and justice become distorted, leaving Satan free to twist and deceive us into fighting for causes that defy God rather than side with Him. Think of all the causes that defy God that people are fighting for. A woman’s right to choose by shedding innocent blood. The right for a man to lie with another man (as with a woman). The rights of women fighting against people who actually care about them rather than use them as sexual objects. What people call “fighting for justice” really is fighting against God. Without God on your side, what you think “justice” is, is really deceptive practices that distort and pervert “true justice”. Life is simple when God is Lord of your life. When He isn’t, the clear cut vision of what He wants from us gets distorted to the point of fighting against Him; a battle that defeats all of its participants.

4 In your majesty, ride out to victory,defending truth, humility, and justice.Go forth to perform awe-inspiring deeds! Psalms 45:4

One Of God’s Greatest Gifts….

Never forget, the Holy Spirit is one of God’s greatest gifts. It’s more valuable than all the money in the world.

11 “You fathers–if your children ask for a fish, do you give them a snake instead?12 Or if they ask for an egg, do you give them a scorpion? Of course not!13 So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him.” Luke 11:11-13

Rescued For His Glory…..

God’s love for us is immeasurable. No human being can fully comprehend how much He loves us. I think that’s a blessing in disguise. If we could eventually fully understand the depth of God’s love, we’d probably take it for granted, like we do with other things we get accustomed with. The most amazing part of our relationship with God is His ability to know our hearts fully. God knows everyone’s heart, that’s why we need to get it right with Him. When we do, we understand ourselves so much more. It’s God’s love for us that lead to Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross; His ransom paid for our rescue. For those who believe, trusting solely in Jesus, we’ve been RESCUED FOR HIS GLORY. What a thought.

21 God would surely have known it, for He knows the secrets of every heart. Psalms 44:21

26 Rise up! Help us! Ransom us because of Your unfailing love. Psalms 44:26

Independently Dependent Upon Him…..

Caleb didn’t have a short memory. His memory was alive and well. It had been 45 years since Moses’ promise to give him land as a reward for his obedience to God in spying out the “Promised land”. He never lost his faith in God. God rewarded him with continued health, the ability to be strong and still fight like a warrior (at 85 mind you), and the reverence that still humbled him. Caleb knew that it was God Who blessed him. He knew only God could grant him the blessing of land. He knew that if God was with him (the key), he could still drive out his enemies from the land about to be given to him. How often do we have this attitude (of humility)? How often do we forget God and try to do it on our own? How often do we let our pride kick in and allow us to think, “it’s up to me”? Ask God to keep you humble. Ask Him to always make you independently dependent upon Him. Caleb is a great example of how strength and humility can walk side by side, blessing its recipients. This is something so foreign to those who do not put their faith and trust in God, and unfortunately, they miss out.

6 A delegation from the tribe of Judah, led by Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite, came to Joshua at Gilgal. Caleb said to Joshua, “Remember what the Lord said to Moses, the man of God, about you and me when we were at Kadesh-barnea. 7 I was forty years old when Moses, the servant of the Lord, sent me from Kadesh-barnea to explore the land of Canaan. I returned and gave an honest report, 8 but my brothers who went with me frightened the people from entering the Promised Land. For my part, I wholeheartedly followed the Lord my God. 9 So that day Moses solemnly promised me, ‘The land of Canaan on which you were just walking will be your grant of land and that of your descendants forever, because you wholeheartedly followed the Lord my God.’10 “Now, as you can see, the Lord has kept me alive and well as He promised for all these forty-five years since Moses made this promise–even while Israel wandered in the wilderness. Today I am eighty-five years old. 11 I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then. 12 So give me the hill country that the Lord promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the descendants of Anak living there in great, walled towns. But if the Lord is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the Lord said.”13 So Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave Hebron to him as his portion of land. 14 Hebron still belongs to the descendants of Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite because he wholeheartedly followed the Lord, the God of Israel. 15 (Previously Hebron had been called Kiriath-arba. It had been named after Arba, a great hero of the descendants of Anak.)And the land had rest from war. Joshua 14:6-15

What Are You Concerned About?

There’s only One Thing worthy of being concerned about, and Mary discovered it. These are Jesus’ words, not mine. And if He spoke them, and they are written down in the Bible, we must take them seriously. If we don’t, we will spend the rest of our lives living like Martha did in this passage of scripture, controlled by our emotions, tossed about the waves of the inconsistency that comes from comparison. God has a way of taking care of those whose hearts are fully dedicated to Him. And that is a moment by moment decision. Choose Whom today you will serve: will you be Martha or will you be Mary? What is it really that you’re concerned about? Is it worthy?

38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what He taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to You that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”41 But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42

Feeling For AND Acting Upon…

There’s a huge difference between “feeling compassion” for someone, and acting on those feelings. Here in the story of the Good Samaritan, we get a glimpse of what it’s like to truly love your neighbor. All human beings feel compassion, but how many act on it? Many make excuses to justify their lack of “neighborly duty”. What we really lack is absence of God’s Spirit within us. It’s virtually impossible to be humble, and help our neighbor without expecting something in return, without God’s Spirit helping us along. Loving our neighbor is a God thing. It’s only possible when He’s part of our being, teaching and instructing us with our acceptance of His sovereign reign. Unless He’s touched our heart, we won’t really know who our neighbor really is. And unless we’ve surrendered to His call, we’ll be just another person passing by along the roadside that decides to turn a blind eye to someone in desperate need. God opens our eyes to the most important things in life. Once we receive this precious gift, then we will truly know the meaning of “loving our neighbor”.

30 Jesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.31 “By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by.32 A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.33 “Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him.34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him.35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’36 “Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.37 The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.” Luke 10:30-37

I’ve Never Understood….

I’ve never understood why a world who seeks pleasure and wants to avoid sorrow and pain, denies the very One Who promises Heaven, a place that fulfills both of those desires.

I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” Revelation 21:3-4

Our View Of God Matters….

When life is reduced down to the “nitty gritty”, there’s only one question that needs to be asked and answered. “Who do you say Jesus is?” Your answer determines more than where you’ll spend eternity. Your attitude towards God is the key to living a life full of meaning, versus one filled with questions, fears, and disappointments that have no solace. When you have the proper fear of God, that comes from being in the right standing with God, your feet stay on the path God has set out for you. When you despise God, the path you journey on will eventually lead you to your own demise. Our view of God matters, it determines everything.

2 Those who follow the right path fear the Lord; those who take the wrong path despise Him. Proverbs 14:2