The Now Thing

"Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert." (Isaiah 43:19)

The pace of our lives seems to be increasing faster and faster. We are in such a rush from here to there that we really aren't even here at all. Our conversations are marked with vacant stares as our minds race ahead to what's next. The next blockbuster movie, the next American Idol, the next American President, the next world crisis, the next scientific breakthrough, the next natural catastrophe, the next scandalous preacher -- and so on and so on and so on.

"What's the next big thing that God will do?" a friend recently asked me. The question reveals our predisposition to a faith that is defined by events, rather than by relationship. We are not completely at fault in this, because God certainly does eventful things in our lives, as in all the world. So the conditioning toward this is understandable. However, we must guard against looking for the next thing so much that we miss out on the now thing.

"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ," Paul wrote, "as though God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." (2Co 5:20). Did you catch that? NOW then we are ambassadors for Christ. That's a NOW thing. It's not something you are going to be -- it is what you are right now.

Whatever else God may do, and whenever, or wherever else He may decide to do it -- THIS is one thing that He is doing NOW. And exactly what is it? Using men and women just like us, unseen and often unappreciated, to become expressions of His light and love in a world overcrowded with darkness and dejection.

Imagine an underground river that flows incessantly in its course, unseen and unappreciated, but nevertheless supplying life and power to all within its sphere of influence. Such is the Kingdom of God in today's desert world. Now imagine that on occasion, unpredictable and unexpected, the pressure of the water -- silent in its underground channels -- suddenly bursts forth above ground in a spectacular geyser that douses everybody in a downpour. The Kingdom of God is also like that.

But while the geysers come and go, the river continues steady and unceasing in its underground flow. We would be foolish to camp by the geyser hole, waiting for another eruption, and miss out on the constancy of the river -- which is forever the Now Thing that God is doing.

Yes, we rightly rejoice in what God has done, and we certainly fix our hope upon what God will do. But Jesus said, "I only do what I see the Father doing." That's the key to living in the Kingdom right NOW.

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Royal Ambassadors

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"And as you go, preach, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' " (Matthew 10:7)

The message has not changed. John the Baptizer said it first, as the forerunner for the Lord Jesus. Then Jesus Himself debuted His own ministry with the same declaration. And now He authorizes His followers to carry the exact same message everywhere we go. More specifically -- as we go.

This is an important distinction. For if we approach this calling to proclaim the Kingdom with our minds focused upon where it is we are going to deliver the message once we get there, then we will miss all the opportunities that await us all along the way. And, frankly speaking, that is where most of the Kingdom occurs. It would be a mistake if we became so focused on what God is going to do later that we missed out on what God is doing right now.

So, as you go, preach; don't wait until you get there, for by then the sermon will be nothing more than, well, a sermon. And haven't we heard enough of those already! Somewhere along the slow unfolding years of time, we have somehow actually come to the place where we evidently believe that a tidy church service on Sunday morning supposedly fulfills this mandate from our Master. And we miss out on the Kingdom of God each and every day all around us!

The Kingdom of God is not in word only, but in power. Jesus told them to not only proclaim the kingdom as they went, but to also demonstrate it by what they did. In other words, He wants for us to become the means whereby His power is expressed -- changing things from what they are, to what God wills them to be.

"As the Father has sent Me," Jesus said, "even so send I you." (John 20:21). Paul the Apostle said, "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God" (2 Corinthians 5:20). Few verses more precisely summarize not only our mission -- but our message.

You are a royal ambassador for the Kingdom of God. As you go everywhere fulfill this mission and proclaim this message -- "the Kingdom of heaven is at hand." In the course of everyday activity, simply tell others the good news that the ruling power of God is present to help them in whatever they face.
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The Unstoppable Life

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"And Jesus went about all Galilee -- preaching the gospel of the kingdom." (Matthew 4:23)

At the very moment when wicked Herod imprisoned faithful John, Jesus stepped forward and raised the torch of truth even higher. Herod should have left well enough alone!

Once Jesus settled in at Capernaum, establishing a base of operations, He then launched a campaign of conquest that can never be rivaled. For He did not seek lands or titles; His was not an egotistical desire for fame or wealth, or for power and honor. No; rather He came to conquer the heart of mankind; conquer and convert it back to its original passion -- a full, free, and fantastic friendship with God Almighty!

Centuries earlier the prophet Isaiah had looked forward by faith and spoke concerning the Lord Jesus, who was yet to come, saying, "Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end....from henceforth even forever." (Isaiah 9:7).

This great prophecy emboldens our belief that good will most certainly triumph over evil, despite the many things which seem to suggest the exact opposite in these violent days. Tune into any news channel and see how inundated we are with unbridled passion, unimaginable decadence, and unbelievable cruelty. Nevertheless, when evil sits upon the throne and the streets of nations are filled with foolhardy acts of immorality and injustice -- we take heart in knowing there is a Kingdom which is greater than these fleeting empires. It is the Kingdom of our God, and of His Christ.

And -- for any heart that has received this King into its multiple compartments -- a promise is made that of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end. Government is what Christ brings to our discarded souls, and Peace is what results when He reigns in our lives. Would you know this peace of which I speak? Then yield your heart to the government of Christ over your affections, appetites, ambitions, aspirations, and aggravations.

Yes, Old King Herod should have left John alone! For, as it stood, he was merely a voice in the desert preaching to those who came out to see him. But this Jesus fellow was now going all over the place -- bringing the Gospel into the very heart of the Nation. Matthew tells us that Jesus "went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the Kingdom of God, and healing all manner of diseases among the people" (Matthew 4:23). And get this -- what Christ did in those days, He is still doing in these days -- in an ever increasing circle of conquest. Furthermore, He has never stopped, and He never will!

This, then, is our heritage, as well as our mission. We are not merely subjects in this Kingdom; we are royal ambassadors, empowered by our King with the credentials that give us the clout necessary to cast down devils and call out the redeemed of the Lord.

This King, to whom we have sworn allegiance, told us to "go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). John was in the desert; Jesus went round about Galilee; and now we have been thrust forth into all the world -- the unstoppable Life has now been unleashed, and the world will never be as it was before!
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The Ultimate Backup

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"Now when Jesus heard that John was cast into prison, He departed into Galilee....and from that time Jesus began to preach, saying, 'Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.'" (Matthew 4:12, and 17)

By all accounts John the Baptizer was extraordinary. Filled with the Holy Spirit while yet in his mother's womb, chosen by God to be the forerunner of Jesus Christ; clothed in camel's skin, eating locusts and honey in the wilderness, not intimidated by anybody -- not even wicked Herod, who had John imprisoned.

And why? Was John a murderer, a robber, a rapist? No, a thousand times! He was a prophet. And the corrupted king was confronted by the truth of John's message; he had to shut him up somehow.

But John's message was a far greater threat to yet another prince -- the Prince of Darkness. And though Herod sat upon Israel's throne, Satan held the scepter which governed the king's darkened heart. It was he, not Herod, who put John in prison, because the message of the Kingdom must be bound!

Now here's my point. When Jesus heard that John was cast into prison, He then sprang into action. Leaving the familiar confines of Nazareth, He moved into The Galilee, and dwelt in Capernaum. This fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy, "The people who sat in darkness saw great light, and to them who sat under the shadow of death, light is sprung up."

And from that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!"

Wait a minute -- Isn't that what John said? Exactly. And now Jesus is on the scene to back him up -- just when John needed Him the most. Jesus will do the same for you today anytime you are opposed for faithfully doing what God has called you to do. He is, and forever will be, the Ultimate Backup.

No matter what the opposition which even Hell itself may muster against us, we shall prevail in every manner. "Remember that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead according to my gospel," Paul wrote in his final letter, adding, "wherein I suffer as an evildoer, even unto bonds. But the Word of God is not bound!" (2 Timothy 2:8)

The Kingdom cannot be bound, for the King is on His throne -- backing us up each and every day.
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The Headlines in Heaven

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"Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand!" (Matthew 3:2)

After 400 years of silence from Heaven, a man is sent from God with a message. His name was John, and they called him the Baptizer. His message was singular -- "Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand!" Thus does the New Testament begin.

These words were not spoken with a snarl, like we see on many tired and angry pulpit faces these days. No! John's message was filled with hope and wonder. When he said the word repent, it was not a rebuke -- but an invitation. An invitation extended from God Himself, offering His fallen and captive sons and daughters a way out of the darkness.

The word means "to change." It signifies the turning from one thing, and unto another. In this case, it is the turning away from the bondage of sin unto the liberty of Christ's kingdom. Thus John says, "for the Kingdom of God is at hand!"

In other words -- you can turn from sin to God because His ruling authority has now over-ruled all other claims to your soul. There is no title, nor deed, nor any papers of authorization clutched in greedy hands, that surpass the unyielding power of the Lord's decree that you be free. And free you are, despite all lies to the contrary. Now, you may indeed not be walking in your freedom ; but that does not mean it is not yours. It just means you need to repent -- you need to change. You can now because the power of God is present to help you.

As Light is immeasurably greater than darkness, so is Jesus far greater than the prince of darkness. And His Kingdom is superior in every way to the kingdom of darkness. There is no law from that dark world that can now do anything but wither like a weed in the blaze of Christ's royal ruling power. All satanic decrees have now been overruled, and all tried cases have been overturned. The captives have been released from the dungeons of doom, and restored to their better estates.

And this made the Headlines in Heaven.

Now then, what will you do today on Earth? What good turn can you make that demonstrates the present power of Christ's rule in your heart. What stand can you take that shows openly the defeat of the devil, and the withering weakness of his wicked kingdom. Oh, prove it to a watching world that the Kingdom of God is at hand!

And that will also make the Headlines in Heaven!
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He Only Had Eyes for God

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"But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, hardly noticed ~ he only had eyes for God!" Acts 7:55 (The Message)

It is one of the great, dramatic moments in Scripture -- Stephen giving his defense before the High Court of Israel. His presentation was masterful and respectful. His recall of history was exact and compelling. The case he presented was flawless and clear.

But as he spoke he saw the smug indifference etched deep into the faces of his judges. Their hearts were hardened by pride, their eyes blinded by bigotry. Stephen, realizing that nothing he could say was going to change their prejudice, shifted gears and got straight to the point.

"You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears!” he cried. “You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit!”

As any student of the pugilist arts knows, no champion ever relies on a single punch to knock out his opponent. No, he peppers him with jabs, rocks him with a one-two combination, and then drops the bomb -- a left hook and a blinding overhand right. BAM!

While the council was reeling from his stunning indictment, Stephen delivered the knockout blow – “Just as your fathers killed those who told us that the Messiah would come, now you, their sons, have betrayed and murdered the very Messiah Himself!”

The Bible says, " Now when they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.” One translations puts it this way, “At that point they went wild, a rioting mob of catcalls and whistles and invective." We are then told, “The Council Members covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him.”

Oh how quickly the self-righteous turn in to nothing more than a band of alley thugs. Amazing, isn't it, the depth of evil that lurks in the hearts of self-righteous people? From the moment Cain murdered Abel, religion has found no other way but violence to force its claims against those with whom it disagrees.

But now, set in sharp relief against this dark backdrop, get the point of our opening text: "Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, hardly noticed -- he only had eyes for God!"

How wonderful it must be to "hardly notice" the dumb, outrageous, banal, and vindictive attacks of the devil through people and circumstances around us. What is the key? How did Stephen manage to remain so above it all? The Word says, "he only had eyes for God!"

O Lord, give me eyes only for You!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus

Look full in His wonderful face.
And the things of earth
Will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.
Helen H. Lemmel, 1922

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Our Father Who art in Heaven

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“Oh, look and see for yourself just how great is the love the Father has lavished upon us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1, Pastor's Paraphrase)

Years ago one of my first overseas preaching trips took me to England, and then across the Channel into Denmark. Our team was staying at a retreat center near the city of Zwolle, along with a few hundred locals who were attending the conference.

We were there for a full week, but I wasn’t scheduled to speak until Friday evening, which would be our final session. When the time came, I shared my testimony of being in the prison my father built. Many were noticeably moved as the Lord ministered that night.

The next morning as our team gathered at the bus to head for the airport, several people came to send us on our way with warm appreciation for our having come. One man in particular walked over to me and firmly took hold of my hand, holding it with both of his. He was an aged man, wrinkled and weathered with the years, his skin looking like soft leather. His eyes were as blue as the Dutch sky, and tearful.

“I must ask your forgiveness,” he said, looking me square in the eyes.

“Why?” I asked, genuinely perplexed.

“All this week I’ve watched you walk about the grounds, smiling and laughing without a care in the world. And I judged you in my heart. Who is this boy, I thought to myself, that he should come here to tell us how to live. I was sure that you had never known a day of sorrow in your life; born to a good family and raised in a loving home. But then last night I heard your story, and then realized how very wrong I had been.”

At this point my eyes were filled with tears; I wanted to let him know that I held nothing against him -- but he wasn’t finished.

“Then it struck me,” he said, “God has been your Father, and that explains why you are so happy. And now, I want Him to be my Father, too.” Wow.

Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt.5:16). I saw it happen on that unforgettable day in Denmark; and a thousand more days since then.

Let your light shine -- and you will see it, too!
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"Who's Your Daddy?"

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"Lord," said Philip, "let us see the Father; that is all we want." (John 14:8. Moffatt NT)

In the ongoing human drama of Adam’s fallen race there is an undeniable, universal need for a Liberator – a knight in shining armor. This is why every culture throughout the history of mankind has its one great hero, its singular mighty champion; that gallant braveheart who steps forward as a deliverer; be he king, warrior, prophet, priest, or sage. And in all these lands -- both near and far away -- books have been written, stories told and poems penned in attempts to let us all know that he (or she) has arrived on the scene.

And in each scenario, when the time comes that such a one actually emerges in our midst we press in for a closer look to see if he is indeed the One. Even John the Baptist asked of Jesus, “Art thou He who is to come, or look we for another?”

It is undeniably true that we search for a Savior in every relationship, a Deliverer in every circumstance, a Hero in every battle, and a Braveheart in every epic quest for freedom. And in each case when we find what we seek, we discover – surprisingly -- an even deeper hunger that drives our lives ever onward, always upward. It is the hunger for a Father.

The un-penned script of the human experience is coded with this deep and irremovable desire; it is carved into our very being, and we will not rest until it be answered – “Show us the Father.”

Yes, the great heartache of humanity cries out continually for a Dad. One who loves us truly, disciplines us thoroughly, empowers us nobly, and secures us eternally. It is precisely at this point that Jesus of Nazareth distinguishes Himself from all others who lay claim to the throne of our affections. “He that has seen Me,” He said, “has seen the Father.”

What does this mean, really?

Simply, and profoundly this -- that everything Jesus said and did was a revelation, not of Himself, but of the Father. It you truly want to know what God the Father is like -- look at Jesus, for He is "the express image of His person, the exact representation of His nature" (Hebrews 1:3).

The Daddy you need, and have been looking for all your life, can be found in Jesus.
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A Titanic Decision

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“God is not willing that any should perish..." (1 Peter 3:9)

The RMS Titanic, that ill-fated luxury liner now known all over the world, had a passenger list of the some of the world's richest and most influential people. It also carried on board a host of middle class, and blue collar workers.

Its full compliment of travelers ranged from the very rich, to the very poor; very successful men (and their doting women), along with those who were struggling just to make ends meet. There were those who were highly educated and well traveled, alongside those who had no education to speak of, and for whom The Titanic voyage would be their first....and last trip.

The Great Ship was supposedly unsinkable, yet she went down in the icy waters of the North Atlantic on her maiden voyage in the early morning of April 15, 1912.

Over 1500 perished at sea; there were fewer than half as many survivors. Despite all the aforementioned things that distinguished this vast group of people from one another, at shore their names were posted in two simple and unmistakable columns – SAVED and LOST. In the end that was the only difference that truly mattered.

This planet Earth, a Great Titan on its maiden voyage among the stars of God’s heaven, is itself on a collision course with a great and dreadful Day of Judgment. Though many scoff at the thought, the unthinkable will happen – the unsinkable will sink.

And on that final Day when the names are posted on the shores of God's heaven, we will not be listed according to our wealth, status, fame, achievements, religious affiliation or ethnicity. No. There will be but two columns of names recorded in august and sobering finality – SAVED and LOST. On which list, my friend, will your name appear?

You are faced with a titanic decision. God is not willing that any should perish, but that all would come to the knowledge of the truth and be saved. This means you. Even now, if you will call upon the name of the Lord, He will save you -- and secure you in His strong and loving arms, both now and forever.

Oh, do it my friend -- an iceberg approaches. And the penman stands at shore, waiting to record your name.
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When the Chips are Down

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"Did you teach hawks to fly south for the winter?" (Job 39:26)

There once was a bird that lived in Canada. One winter he announced to the other birds, “I’m not flying south for the winter. I’m staying right here!” All the other birds said he was crazy, but he answered, “You’re the ones that are crazy. You’ll get down south, turn around and fly right back up here again next year. What’s the point?!”

The other birds shook their heads, shrugged their shoulders, and took to flight; leavig him behind.

Wondering what winter in Canada would be like, the lone bird was pleasantly surprised at the stretch of Indian Summer that lingered long into the fall. “Aha!” he said to himself, “I was right to stay. This is wonderful!” But then, winter hit full force in the middle of December. Shuddering in the cold the silly bird finally realized, “I must hurry and leave before I freeze to death!”

He took to flight and made it as far as Montana. There, in mid-air, he froze up and tumbled to the ground; landing in a farmer’s barnyard. “Oh, what a stupid bird I am,” he moaned to himself. “I should’ve flown south with all the other birds, but now I am about to die.”

Just then a cow in the barnyard strolled past the fallen bird and without realizing it dropped a big cow-plop right on top of him! “Oh, this is just great,” mumbled the buried bird. “It’s not bad enough that I’m about to die; now I’m covered with cow manure!”

But then he noticed something he had not expected. The warmth of the plop actually began to thaw him out and restore him to life. “Why, what do you know about that?” said the bird. “This ain’t so bad after all!” Then he began chirping and singing under the pile of poop.

Meanwhile, the barnyard cat was passing by and heard the sound of singing coming from the pile. Curious as a cat can be, he pawed around in the pile and uncovered the thawed bird. Their eyes met, there was a silent moment of suspense, and then the cat ate the bird.

The moral of the story is three-fold. First, not everyone who dumps on you is your enemy. Second, not everyone who cleans it off is your friend. Third, when you do get dumped on, it is best to keep your mouth shut.

The bottom line is this. When the chips are down, the Lord is up to something good. Take heart, and place your trust in Him. You’ll be blessed in every way.
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The Lost Boys

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“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10

One afternoon, while sitting in my hotel room during a break in a conference, I decided to use the time to do some writing. It was quite and private, with little more than the distant sound of traffic passing by below my window.

Pecking away at the keys drew me deeper and deeper into my thoughts, as I searched for the best way to turn a phrase so as to say what was stirring in my heart. This process can cause all ambient noise to slowly fade away, and unleash great bursts of uninterrupted creativity. At least, that’s the hope we writers have when staring at a blank sheet of paper. On this particular day my hopes were being realized, and I was cruising with inspiration; hammering out a chapter for an upcoming book.

That’s when I first heard it. It was far enough in the background of my attention that I really didn’t notice it clear enough to tell what it was, but I knew that I distinctly heard it. Abruptly, I became more aware of my surroundings than I had been just moments earlier, and only then was I able to hear it even more clearly. And now it was unmistakable. I heard crying in the hallway.

What at first had sounded like the typical protesting of a small child not getting his way, quickly escalated to the sounds of full blown terror. And it wasn’t just one kid; there were at least two, literally screaming in fear just outside my door.

I leapt into action not knowing what I would find, but bracing myself for something awful from the sound of things. Opening my door I found two small boys, ages five and three, standing alone in the long hallway frightened out of their wits. They were lost in this large hotel, and the horror of their predicament was too overwhelming for their unseasoned minds to handle. The three year old was crying the loudest; and the five year old was trying to keep a brave face in spite of his own tears, but even he knew they were in real trouble. I could see it in his eyes.

Seeing me standing there helped….but only a little. After all, I was the dreaded stranger every kid is repeatedly warned about in these foul, self-indulgent days. Instinctively, I knelt down to eye level with the boys and spoke with a calm and reassuring voice, offered with a confident smile.

“Are you boys lost?” I asked, dismissing the obvious.

The five year old took heart and responded, “Yes, sir.”

They had pushed the wrong button on the elevator and got off on the wrong floor. Unable to find their room – panic hit them hard and that’s when crying turned to screaming just outside my door.

I offered my hand to him and said, “Let’s go down to the Hotel lobby and they will know how to find your mom and dad.” Once the five year old took my hand, his little brother took courage and came peacefully along with us, holding my other hand.

On the elevator I continued to calm them down by letting them push the buttons and feel some sense of control. And there I stood on the elevator holding hands with two little lost boys, reassuring them that everything would be alright, and asking them if Disneyland was as fun as they hoped it would be.

Once in the lobby, we found dad – grateful beyond words to see his boys safe and sound. He thanked me, hugged his boys with relief, and called off the hound dogs. I returned to the elevator to go back up to my room. The experience ended as quickly as it had started, and my afternoon was headed back into itself. That’s when the Spirit of the Lord spoke to my heart. He said five simple things.

First, being lost can be a really frightening thing to those who suddenly realize just how lost they truly are. Second, somebody somewhere needs to hear the cries of those who are lost and crying out for help. Third, upon hearing those cries, that somebody needs to do something to help those that are crying – even though it doesn’t fit into their plans for the day. Fourth, getting on their level and speaking in words they can understand is vital if one is serious about bringing the lost back to the father. And, fifth, delivering them safe and secure in the father’s presence is the goal. Our task isn’t over until that has occurred.

Hey, heard any crying lately? Its just outside your door. Listen for a minute; you’ll hear it. Really.
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A Genuine Lightbulb Moment

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"He that loveth not knoweth not God, for God is Love." 1 John 4:8 (KJV)

The Bible tells us God is love. The Bible also tells us that love is patient. Doesn't it stand to reason, therefore, that God is patient? Of course! With this thought in mind, I believe that when the Apostle Paul wrote 1st Corinthians 13, he was not attempting to give us a definition of Love; rather, he was in fact giving us an inspired description of God Himself!

The following is my paraphrase of that most famous passage of Scripture, inserting God in the place of the word love. Brace yourself -- this is a genuine lightbulb moment. You are about to see what God is really like.

“God is always patient; He waits, and waits, and waits; and does not grow anxious or hurried. God is always gracious and kind. Always. God does not behave indecently, or inappropriately. There is nothing He would ever say or do, that would intentionally embarrass or humiliate us. Never.

God is never envious, insolent, or rude. He is not sarcastic in His speech, cutting in His wit, nor condemning in His tone. God is not puffed up, nor conceited. He does not cherish inflated ideas of His own importance. He does not walk about heaven staring at Himself in mirrors.

God does not behave in an unseemly manner in any situation, or towards anybody. He is never vulgar nor haughty. God does not pursue His own things; He does not seek, nor demand His own way. God is not irritable or touchy. He is not easily annoyed, nor quickly provoked. He is not resentful. God hardly notices when He is wronged, and doesn't even take it much into account when it occurs. He certainly does not keep a personal record of petty offenses; a scorecard of all the times others have tried to tick Him off.

God does not impute evil on anybody. He doesn't even think evil; such things do not enter His mind. God is never glad with sin, but always glad to side with truth. He is never glad about injustice of any kind, and He sings the loudest whenever the truth wins.

God quietly covers all things that could otherwise bring shame and dishonor to your life, and He graciously bears you up under everything that tries to put you down. God believes the best about you at all times and in all things, and He will never give up on you. Never.

His hope is unlimited, His love is unfailing, His commitment is unflagging, and His power is unending -- no matter what the circumstances of your life may be, you will find Him there at your side...and on your side.

He will always stand His ground defending you, no matter what it cost Him. Dear friend, God loves you. He not only loves you in what you are facing, but He will also love you through it. And in the end, you will love Him for it.” (from I Corinthians 13:4-6)

Do you hear that popping sound? It's lighbulbs going on all around the world!
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A Cardiac Revolution

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“Wilt Thou not revive us again: that Thy people may rejoice in Thee? Show us Thy mercy, O LORD, and grant us Thy salvation.” Psalm 85:6

There is no question that America is at a critical crossroads in Her history. There is also little doubt that the Church is faced with one of the most serious and demanding challenges that many of us as followers of Jesus Christ have ever known. To put it bluntly -- how can we deliver a message of redemption to our troubled world when there seems to be so little difference between those who do not know Christ, and those who say we do?

The hour was never more urgent than now for followers of Christ to honestly come to terms with the claims of Christ. Certainly the need is great for a spiritual awakening in our land, but first there must be a revival in the hearts of God’s people, and a renewal of the Church which now slumbers in a carnal stupor -- intoxicated with affluence, and seemingly oblivious to the fact that for many in our nation she has lost her influence.

We are in desperate need of a cardiac revolution; a turning of our hearts fully unto the Lord; a reordering of our lives freely to His purposes.

Oh, sure, we have "our great cathedrals, our paradigm-breaking megachurches with ultra-cool satellite campuses, and our trend-setting postmodern un-churches”(CT). We have multi-media worship sets, pop-star worship leaders; stand-up comedian pastors, with high-tech video tools that let Hollywood illustrate the sermon.

Why, there’s a church for every appetite known to man, and yet despite this abundance of religious options – this smorgasbord of spiritual selections -- those who live within sight of these very worship centers admit their souls are still hungry and impoverished. And many who actually attend these churches confess the same. The words of Bono, though sung over a decade ago, express the heart cry of many, many people in our world today -- “But I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.”

Are we a people dressed and ready for service? Is the Church in a state of preparedness for the epic events that loom large on the near horizon? Do we have what it takes to deliver the goods when desperate conditions drive men and women to our doors, looking for real answers to serious problems?

We need more than a cosmetic makeover; we need a cardiac revolution.
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While the Parade Passes By

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"Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord." Exodus 14:13 (KJV)

We live in the world of Hullabaloo, with clamor and clutter packed to the rafters. There are bells and whistles, and sirens galore; trumpets and drums, clowns and monkeys, dogs and ponies, jugglers and acrobats -- all that, and more. There's even a cat in a hat.

Our news channels, both TV and radio, are packed with a host of talking heads; each filled with a variety of opinions which are rudely expressed -- sometimes simultaneously with at least three other people also trying to get their point across. In the end, no one has really said anything worth hearing at all.

And our over-the-top entertainment consists of non-stop flash and razz-a-ma-tazz; the music never ends; the laughter, hollow and crackling, runs incessantly on a looping sound track designed to make us think something is funny....when it isn't.

Even the dear Church is not exempt from the circus. Our services start promptly with polish and style, delivering the Word with sparkle and smile; ending in time to go to the game, which is backed up on TiVo -- oh, bless His name.

So it can be rather disconcerting when the Lord pulls you aside, and has you stand still while the parade passes by. What is He thinking? Doesn't He know how important it is that I step out there and make a big splash? Surely I should -- and I mean right now!

But the Lord says, "No."

It turns out that the kingdom of Hullabaloo is not the kingdom of God. Jesus did not come to be like Santa on a float in the Macy's Parade. Nor is He to be found in the endless marches of angry picketers, which fill our streets with protest each political season. Rather, His work is like a river, often running underground, which never ceases in its life-giving flow.

"Stand still," He says, "and see the salvation of the Lord." Could it be that we are not seeing all that much of God's salvation, because we are so busy running around here and there, trying to save ourselves?

It strikes me as something worth thinking about...while the parade passes by.
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Green Jeans and Soggy Bottoms

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"He makes me lay down in green pastures, He leads me beside still waters." (Psalm 23:2)

It's kind of nice at first, especially if your life has been a whirlwind of activity; running to and fro, closing deals and climbing the never ending ladder; burning the candle at both ends; living on the edge; coming apart at the seams.

A getaway to a nice balmy meadow, next to a gentle babbling brook is just what the doctor ordered; all we need now is Bambi and Thumper and the picture is complete. Like I said, it's kind of nice -- at first. But as the days turn to weeks, and then draw into months...and then years -- green and wet can get a little old.

But the Lord is not fooling around here. He's after something far more valuable than you being a success, as this world defines it. He is after you being the man or woman He created you to be. And to this end He will make you lay down -- even if you don't want to. He will lead you by still waters, even though you scramble to go somewhere else. And why is He doing this? So that your trust will be in Him -- and not in your own fleshly striving.

If you can somehow get up and walk away, then the Lord is not your Shepherd. And you will never know the indescribable payoff that awaits all those with green jeans and soggy bottoms.

"He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yes, even when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil -- for He is with me. His rod and staff comfort me. He prepares a banquet table for me in the presence of my enemies, and anoints my head with oil. Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life -- and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

But you go ahead and walk away; I'm sure you'll find the finer fashions of this world more suitable to your blank eyes, and hollow chest. And, no doubt, the whirlwind will sweep you up in such a buzz that you'll not visit these parts again.

Until you are made to lay down in gray linen on a cold stone.
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Inspired to Do Our Best

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"We're doing our best setting things right." (2 Co 6:7, The Message)

In 1907 Grant C. Tullar wrote, "Hear ye the Master's call, 'Give Me thy best!' For, be it great or small, that is His test. Do then the best you can, not for reward, not for the praise of man -- but for the Lord. Every work for Jesus will be blessed; but He asks from everyone his best. Our talents may be few, these may be small -- but unto Him is due our best, our all."

Are you giving your best? Or, like so many others, do you just cruise along merely doing only what is acceptable. Paul the Apostle said, "Whether we are at home with the Lord or away from him, we still try our best to please him" (2 Co 5:9 CEV). Indeed, we are called to do our best at setting things right in a world gone wrong. Nothing more could be asked, and nothing less would be acceptable.

The story is told of how the great Leonardo Da Vinci had started work on a large canvas in his studio. A few of his students watched as he worked at it -- choosing the subject, planning the perspective, sketching the outline, and applying the colors; all with his own inimitable genius. Then he unexpectedly paused, the painting still unfinished, and, summoning one of his students, invited him to step up and complete the work.

The student protested that he was unworthy and unable to complete the great painting which his master had begun. But Da Vinci answered, "Will not what I have done inspire you to do your best?"

Do you think that Jesus might be saying a similar thing to you?

Your life can honor God greatly, and benefit some many others in positive and lasting ways. Everything you need for this has alsready been provided by Jesus. Believe it, take hold of it, press on with it, and give it your best shot. Surely you can do no less, seeing how much He has done already.

Finish the painting, my friend -- for Jesus believes in you.
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Staring at What Isn't There

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"Be anxious about nothing..." (Philippians 4:6, The Living Bible)

The word nothing means "something that does not exist." The word anxious means "to be troubled with care; to concentrate one's thoughts upon something in a fretful manner." Could anything be more incongruous than a person focusing all their fretful thoughts upon something that doesn't even exist? Yet people do it everyday, almost all day long.

Detached from the present, their eyes somewhat glazed with vacancy, they dismiss the obvious for the oblivious -- staring at something that's not even there. They are unable to appreciate what they actually do have, because they are so wrapped up with anxiety over what they do not have.

One of my favorite hymns that I learned as a boy encourages us to count our many blessings. "When upon Life's billows you are tempted, tossed; when you are discouraged thinking all is lost. Count your many blessings, name them one by one. And it will amaze you what the Lord has done!" (Justin Oatman, 1856)

It is true. A few thoughtful moments spent in thankfulness to God for the many blessings that undeniably are yours, will quell the whispering voices that beckon you to become upset by staring at nothing.

Next time anxiety begins to crowd your space, step back and start counting your many blessings -- not generally, but specifically. Name them, one by one. Let your mind dwell upon the massive benefits which the Lord has downloaded into your life. You'll find in no time that by looking at what is really there, your imagination will no longer drift into the darkness of what is not there.

Hey, you there! Stop staring; and start counting your many blessings!
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Nick at Night

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“There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: the same came to Jesus by night…” (John 3:1,KJV).

What would you give to sit down privately and talk uninterrupted with Jesus Christ? What questions would you ask of Him? And, more to the point, would you be prepared to answer the questions He might ask of you?

Nicodemus was given just such an opportunity, and we now have that dialogue faithfully preserved in Scripture as a record for our own consideration. Perhaps it is God’s intention that we may each see something of ourselves in this roof top conversation.

Nicodemus was a man who devotion to God led him to a life of service and success. He was both a Pharisee, and a Ruler among the people. In these modern days the Pharisees usually get a bad rap, but that's not altogether fair.

The sect rose to power as a result of the heroism of Judas Maccabees ~ that Israeli Braveheart whose courageous faith, and passionate leadership brought about a defining moment in Israel’s ongoing quest for a Home. Hanukah commemorates that event today. The Pharisees understandably took the charge to preserve the purity of the Faith quite serious -- sometimes even to a fault.

But Nicodemus was more than that; he was also a member of the Sanhedrin, a ruling body that acted somewhat like the Supreme Court in matters pertaining to Faith and Duty. He was in every way well situated; his place and standing secure beyond all suspicion. However, here is where our story turns a bit peculiar. John tells us that he "came to Jesus at night."

Some commentaries suggest that Nicodemus was such a busy man, that the only time he could arrange a visit was in the evening. I disagree. I think maybe John is showing us that, despite the formidable arsenal of his pedigree and favored status in society, Nicodemus somehow felt he must sneak a visit with Christ at night -- for fear of what his own people might think.

To this very day mighty men and women of wealth and power, despite the strength of their position, still fear what others will think and do if they take a public stand for Christ. In our liberated world you can be and do anything, no matter how bizarre, and still be generally celebrated. But the moment you make it known that you love Jesus -- well -- all bets are off!

Maybe you are a person of some standing in your own circle of influence -- educated, successful, reasonably wealthy and influential; admired and respected. But are you so secure that you can stand up for Jesus in a day when so many are bowing down to everything else?

Indeed, there is always cost associated with being near Christ. But the question ultimately is not what does it cost; rather, what is it worth?

"What on Earth are You Doing....?"

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"David carried out God's purpose while he lived." Acts 13:36 (NIrV)

One memory I have from early childhood is that of my mother walking in on me while I was in the midst of mischief. At the age of five I had taken a pair of scissors and began cutting the flower patterns out of the sofa. “What on earth are you doing?” she exclaimed. And then, in the same breath, having seen for herself what it was, she said, “Oh, for heaven’s sake!!”

Now, to a five year old boy that sounded like one complete question to me, and that’s the question I pose to you now – “What on earth are you doing for heaven’s sake?” The Bible tells us that David, beloved of the Lord, carried out God's purposes while he lived.

Don't you want the same to be said of you?

A needy world waits on tiptoe to see who you will be, and what you will do. Our eyes strain for an unrestricted view, our hearts long for some heroic act, and our breath, held in anticipation of something great that will spring forth from your faith, awaits for that singular moment when we may all say together, “Wow!”

Oh, please do not disappoint us.

“But, who am I that such things as you suggest should be expected of me?” you might be wondering.

Well, honestly, you’re nobody – just like the rest of us! But Jesus is Somebody, and He is looking for someone just like you! AND .... He has already done everything necessary to insure your success in completing the purpose for which He placed you in this world.

"So, what on earth are you doing.....for Heaven's sake?"

One Step Closer to a Yes

"Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick, but a sudden good break can turn life around." (Proverbs 13:12, The Message)

A friend in the promotion business says, "Every time someone tells me "NO!" I get happier -- because I'm one step closer to that person who will say "YES!"

Some people cannot bear to be told "NO" even once; let alone repeatedly. And then there are others who stop just one person too soon. All they needed was to ask one more time. But they didn't. Disappointment can do that to you if you let it. Especially if it seems to be unrelenting -- one blow after the next.

Years ago I discovered a splendid little poem that has anchored my life in those times when everything seems to be going wrong -- times when your hopes are dashed, your dreams have faded, your deepest desires thwarted, and when so many great expectations become inexplicably disappointed. Maybe you will find it helpful, too.

"Disappointment. HIS appointment. Change one letter, then I see that the thwarting of my purpose is God's better choice for me!"

It is true, as the proverb says, that unrelenting disappointment can leave you heartsick. But the rest of the proverb is also true -- "a sudden good break can turn life around." One doesn't come without the other.

Draw yet another breath, my fellow traveler; though you have paused alongside the road -- you have not stopped. Your journey is not finished. There's a bend in the road up ahead. And the bend in the road is not the end of the road -- unless you fail to make the turn.

Tip your hat respectfully to old man Disappointment, and then be on your way; for God has something better in mind for you. And though you have heard "NO" perhaps a thousand times -- you are actually one step closer to a "YES!"

And that single "Yes" can turn your life around!

The Boundary of Blood

"...they taunted the Philistines gathered at Pas Dammim for battle." (2 Samuel 23:9)

The place was called Pas-Dammim; it’s where giants are slain by men of faith. It is mentioned only two times in the Bible. Once, when David slew Goliath, and then here, some twenty years later, when Eleazar, the son of Dodo, stood alone with David in the same field and the two of them defied and defeated an entire army.

The word means, “the boundary of blood.” In our vernacular we might say it is the cutting edge. It quite literally is the place where opposing kingdoms meet in decisive battle -- and sooner or later your presence is required there.

I cannot help but wonder if the thing that inspired Eleazar most in this particular battle, was the fact that he was standing with David at the very site where David had slain Goliath. Surely that had to stir his heart with a higher level of courage.

And, in the same manner, can we not derive even greater inspiration for our own battles – knowing that we stand with the Lord Jesus, who Himself has slain the greatest giant of them all on a hill far away?

Just as David the Giant Slayer was a fellow soldier with Eleazar the son of Dodo, Jesus is with us in the challenges we face. The inevitable outcome of His involvement in our affairs will be certain victory. Paul the apostle, when brought before Caesar in the trial of his life, later wrote, "But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!" (2Ti 4:17-18)

The same will be true for you and me -- once the Lord stands by our side, we will be able to tell the story to one and all of how we stood at the boundary of blood, living our lives on the cutting edge.

You Can Kiss Your Donkey Goodbye!

“I am not trying to please people. I want to please God.” Galatians 1:10

There’s a story about an old man, a boy and a donkey on their way to town.

The boy rode on the donkey and the old man walked. As they went along they passed some people who remarked it was a shame the boy was riding, making the old man walk. The man and boy thought maybe the critics were right, so they changed positions.

Later, they passed some people that remarked, "What a shame that man makes a little boy walk." So they then decided they both would walk!

Soon they passed some more people who thought they were stupid to walk when they had a perfectly good donkey to ride. So, they both rode the donkey.

At length they passed yet another group of people, who shamed them by saying how awful it was of them to put such a heavy load on a poor little donkey. The boy and man said they were probably right, so they decided to carry the donkey.

As they crossed over a bridge, they lost their grip on the donkey. He fell into the river and drowned.

The moral of the story: If you try to please everyone, you might as well kiss your, uh, donkey (or whatever else you call it) good-bye!!

Do you spend your life trying to please everybody? You will never be able to do it -- give it a rest. Instead, why not play to an audience of One? He loves you, believes in you, and celebrates you.

Why not live your life so as to please God?

The Ultimate Palm Pilot

"I have graven you upon My hands..." Isaiah 49:16

Have you ever been in a situation where you needed to write something down, something important, but you had no paper available -- only a pen? What did you do? Write it on the palm of your hand? Of course you did; everybody has done that at least once. Even God.

Once you write anything on your hand it becomes a priority; you are going to have to do something about it right away. In fact, you really can't do anything else until you take care of that written matter.

But, what if it were tattooed on your hand? Or, even more graphic than that, what if it were engraved there? Would that suggest a far greater importance than merely jotting it down with washable ink? Absolutely. And this is precisely what the Lord has done for us.

The people had complained that God had forgotten them; forsaken them. But His answer boomed from heaven, and echoes through the corridors of time reaching even unto us today -

“Does a woman forget her sucking child, so as not to have compassion upon the child of her womb? Even though mothers should forget, I will not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands; thy walls stand continually before Me.”

One translation says, "I can never forget you! I have written your name on the palms of my hands." Another one puts it this way, "Behold, I have indelibly imprinted you on the palm of each of My hands!"

Could it be that when the nails pierced His hands, your name was being written there by God Himself? And do those rich wounds, yet visible above, stand even today as an eternal witness in heaven to God's unfailing commitment to you here on earth below. There is no doubt. As the great English poet expressed it --

"My name from the palms of His hands Eternity will not erase; Imprest on His heart it remains in marks of indelible grace." —Augustus Toplady

Now that's the ultimate Palm Pilot!

The Reservoir Church

"...your old men will dream dreams." Acts 2:17

In a dream I saw a beautiful church sitting atop a hill overlooking a dying town in the dry valley below. The scene was surrealistic in its contrasts. The church was an old classic white-framed structure with a cross-capped spire towering upwards into the blue sky with fluffy white clouds. The hill was perfectly rounded, looking as though someone had placed a gigantic green ball exactly halfway into the soil of the rolling countryside.

The town down in the valley could have served as a location shoot for a two-bit western. It came complete with tumbleweeds, weathered wooden walk boards along a dusty main street, and a scraggy mutt barking at everything within eyesight.

I watched with fixed interest as a hand appeared in the sky directly above the church. Held in the hand was a great pitcher of water, tilted in the pouring position. I could see the outpouring already reaching the lip of the picture, about to fall upon the church like Niagara Falls. Standing there halfway between the Church and Tombstone, I realized what was about to occur. Once the water hit the top of the rounded hill it would flow in all directions ~ including where I stood. I knew I was about to be doused in the downpour.

But then a most bewildering thing happened. As the water fell toward the church from the sky, the church people ran out of the building and constructed a huge retaining wall around the parameter of their property. It was like watching a movie played at high speed. In a matter of seconds they were done. The wall was built, forming a dam all the way around their church.

And just at the moment they finished, the falling water gushed upon them and swooshed in a mighty surge against the retaining wall. Instead of flowing everywhere as was expected, now the great outpouring sat contained within the church property on top the hill. Instead of a mighty river, it was a mere reservoir.

I could see the church people inside swimming about and playing with one another in the water. They were having a wonderful time. I could also see the town below, more dusty and forsaken than when I first observed it. A few solitary souls, lean and forlorn, walked aimlessly about its deserted streets. Something was terribly wrong with this picture.

Then I saw the Lord. He was walking along the ground around the outside edge of the wall that the church had built, damming up the outpouring. He examined the wall, and then looked at the desolate town below. He seemed genuinely perplexed.

Then I saw a guard walking about the top of the wall. His job was to make sure that the people inside were secure and happy, and that nobody from the outside came in to befoul the water with their uncleanness. As he walked about he came and stood over the Lord. He then looked down upon the Lord. I couldn't help but think how profoundly inappropriate this was -- standing over the Lord, and looking down upon Him?

The Lord spoke. With one hand touching the circular dam the church had constructed, and His other hand pointing to the town below, He asked the guard above Him, “Why do you damn those I have not damned?”

I woke up from this dream knowing I needed to ponder its meaning for myself, and also pass it along to others who would be keen on discerning what the Lord could be saying through this vivid parable.

So there you have it.

That Singular Sentence

"The Word became flesh, and dwelt among us..." (John 1:14)

The Bible stands unequaled in all Literature. Yes, there are many volumes of sacred writings held in high esteem by many peoples; works of history, poetry, philosophy, spirituality, humanity, philanthropy and mystery. They each have their place, and have undoubtedly contributed in some way or another to either the maintenance, or advancement of their respective cultures. But, still, none of them equal the Bible in its depth of inspiration, or its sweep of influence.

We readily recognize numerous references from Scripture that fill our daily lives with spiritual trivia. That lump in people’s throat is their Adam’s apple. A person enduring extreme adversity has the patience of Job. Someone who’s been around forever is as old as Methuselah. The dove and the olive branch remain the global symbol of peace; the serpent, an image of evil. Jezebel is to this day the quintessential stereotype of a controlling woman, and Judas is the all-time bad guy.

We speak of walking on water to suggest the impossibility of some task, and soaring with wings as eagles to suggest attaining some great and noble goal. These are but a few of the many famous expressions that come from the Bible.

There is one text of Scripture, however, that towers above and beyond all others. It is without question the single, most known Bible verse in the entire world. And the expression it produces is always one of awe. It is known by the youngest of children who are first learning to read, and it is pondered by the oldest of the aged who stand on the threshold of eternity.

Of course, I’m referring to John 3:16 ~ “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

It is that singular sentence that stands uniquely alone – needing no commentary, and soliciting only reverence. Indeed, The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.

Pressing On the Upward Way

“I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil 3:14).

Notice the cooperative partnership in our opening verse of scripture -- God calls us upward, and we press toward the goal. Both are necessary. If God calls, but no one answers – nothing happens. If man presses, but God’s not with him – nothing happens. Nothing good, anyway.

Have you ever taken a volley ball into a swimming pool, pushed it down into the water, and then tried to balance yourself by standing on it? Did you notice that the deeper you pushed the ball into the water, the greater the force it exerted to rise back up to the top?

The air inside the ball belongs with the air above the water, and it will press upward to return back to where it belongs. That’s the way it is with us as followers of Jesus. There is something inside us that urges us to the summit; it’s the upward call.

Some merely drift along, hoping for a break here or there. But in Life, as in nature, nothing ever drifts upstream. The only exception to this happened in Texas during a freak flash flood.

The waters rose so quickly that people only had time to scurry to their rooftops. One man, a reporter, sat on the house watching the floodwaters sweep past. There were cows, and cats, and all kinds of things zipping by the house. Suddenly something caught his eye. A $500 Stetson hat came floating down stream, just out of his reach. However, before it passed by, the hat stopped, turned around and floated back up stream. It then came back, stopped and turned back upstream again.

Amazed, the reporter said, “This is a miracle: it will be the lead story in my paper tomorrow!”

A woman sitting on the roof next door heard him and replied, “That’s no miracle. It’s my husband Cecil. He said he was going to mow that lawn come hell or high water!”

Like I said, nothing ever drifts upstream. Left to ourselves we will not rise, but retreat. However, God does not leave us to ourselves; He calls us upward. Something deep inside us is hooked to heaven; there’s a pull on our hearts which lifts us towards the higher way.

As the old hymn says, “I’m pressing on the upward way; new heights I’m gaining everyday. Still, praying as I onward bound, ‘Lord, plant my feet on higher ground!’”

When you hear God calling, press upward. One day heaven will be your home.

Breaking Free from Lesser Things

“I am doing a great work....” (Nehemiah 6:3)

There are many people who meander through life as though it were a flea market, browsing the bins for the deal of a lifetime, but only coming home with someone else's junk. Others are a bit more like the crazy rabbit in Alice’s Wonderland, always on the go for something that is always somewhere else; and never getting there.

Some people set in the stands and watch others play the game, and reassure themselves that they could do that if they wanted to. Others see a great opportunity of some kind, and console themselves with a reflective sigh, “I should do that.” But, of course they never do. And then there are those who wistfully say, “I would do that,” hinting by their tone that it’s somebody else’s fault if they don’t.

Could do, should do, and would do never do. The only thing that works is when you find the thing that you must do.

God uses the inner pull of that upward call to free you from the gravity of lesser things. There is a resolute power inherent to any great work, and once you become involved in such an enterprise, you are virtually unstoppable.

Nehemiah undertook the great challenge of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, and was constantly opposed by enemies who sought his ruin.

First they tried ridicule; it didn’t work. Then they made overt threats of hostility; it was, as they say, water off a duck’s back to Nehemiah. Next they attempted covert sabotage; but he foiled their plot. Nothing fazed him. Finally they tried the diplomatic approach, seeking some sort of compromise. Nehemiah’s answer stands to this day as one of the greatest closers in any conflict:

“I am doing a great work,” he said, “Why should the work stop while I come down to you?”

Nehemiah's passion for answering the upward call, minimized the effects of those who were always seeking to drag him down to their level. They lost; he won. The same will be true of you.

The words of this old hymn say it best --

“I am resolved no longer to linger,
charmed by the world's delight;

Things that are higher, things that are nobler,
These have allured my sight.

I am resolved to enter the kingdom,
leaving the paths of sin;

Friends may oppose me, foes may beset me;
Still I will enter in.

I am resolved, and who will go with me?
Come, friends, without delay.

Taught by the Bible, led by the Spirit,
We'll walk the heavenly way.”

Palmer Hartsough, 1896

The Best Friend in the World

“I will talk to the Father, and he'll provide you another Friend so that you will always have someone with you.” (John 14:16, The Message)

One of history’s unsung heroes is a man named Ludwig Nommensen, a German Lutheran missionary sent to Sumatra in 1862. He focused his attention on the Batak people of the Indonesian interior.

While he met with typical difficulties for the first few years, his unflagging zeal ultimately turned the tide. By the time of his death in 1918 at the age of eighty-four, the church he had started numbered over 180,000 members, with 34 Batak pastors and 788 teacher-preachers assisting in the work. Its prevailing influence lasts to this day.

A turning point came early in Ludwig’s labors when a prominent chief of the Batak asked him a question.

"We, too, have laws that say we must not steal, nor take our neighbor's wife, nor bear false witness," the chief said. “So how does what you teach differ from what we already know?”

"My Master doesn’t merely tell us what to do,” he answered, “He also gives the power to do it."

The startled chief replied, "Can you teach my people that?"

"God will do it if they ask for it and listen to His word," Ludwig answered.

So for six months Nommensen taught the Batak about the power of God, and friendship with the Holy Spirit. At the end of that time the chief said, "Stay, your law is better than ours. Ours tells us what we ought to do. Your God says, 'Come, I will walk with you and give you strength to do the good thing.'"

And the rest, as they say, is history.

God will also walk with you, and give you the strength to do the good thing. Jesus promised us that we would not be left as orphans, but that we would have a constant friend who would walk with us, talk to us, teach us, guide us, empower us and help us every day in every way. That Friend is the Holy Spirit.

The simple definition of a friend is “one attached to another by affection or esteem.” We rightly imagine that our friendship with the Holy Spirit is based upon our affection and esteem for Him, but friendship is never one-sided. Perhaps you have never considered that the Holy Spirit is also attached to you by the strong affection and high esteem which He has for you!

Has it ever occurred to you just how much the Holy Spirit actually enjoys being with you? Why not spend the rest of today thinking about that , as you walk with and talk with the best Friend in the world?

Light ‘Em Up, Sparky!

"Let us consider one another, how we may stir each other up to love, helpful deeds, and noble activities." Heb 10:24 (Amplified Bible)

During the 1990 season, the Colorado Buffaloes were in Austin, trailing Texas late in the third quarter, down 19 -14; and the Longhorns were marching with the ball, about to score another touchdown, which would have buried us. Eric Bieniemy, the short, powerhouse running back for Colorado, huddled the huge offensive linemen together on the sidelines, and seemed to explode in a burst of enthusiasm, challenging them to turn things around.

The third quarter ended, and Texas took off running to the other end of the field. The crowd rose to their feet, especially near the end zone, because they thought they were going to see their team score the touchdown that would put the game away.

And then something happened that we had never seen before, nor since. Our defensive players starting walking slowly to the other end, seeming like they were already beaten; but then our offense walked on to the field and intercepted them at our own 20. During the TV timeout between quarters, there were 22 Colorado players on the field; and the offense, at Bieniemy’s urging, began challenging the defense to hold Texas from scoring.

It was exhilarating to see the empowering effect of those few moments. Our defense took heart and, with renewed determination, charged down to the other end of the field. They stood their ground and held Texas to a field goal. Colorado received the kick-off, marched down and scored right away. Then we held the Longhorns to three and out for the first time in the game, and got the ball back. Once again we drove for the go-ahead touchdown, which turned out to be the winning score.

Colorado went on to a ten game winning streak, including a victory against Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl for the National Championship. The defining moment of that season happened during the break between the third and fourth quarter of a game; a game whose outcome was still hanging in the balance until one guy stirred it up.

The significance of this story is that one person can make a difference, when he or she cares enough to do so. The infectious influence of a positive and affirming individual can turn the course of any campaign from one of defeat to victory.

As someone once said, “It only takes a spark to get a fire going.” So, are you ready to light things up, Sparky?

Shining Bright in the Darkest Hour

“...among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Phil.2:15).

The prophet Daniel wrote, “the people who know their God shall prove themselves strong and shall stand firm and do great exploits; they shall prevail valiantly” (Dan.11:32). The backdrop for this splendid display of moral courage and social action was a time when deceit and flattery from political leaders had seduced the mindless masses into settling for a meaningless existence.

That’s when the people of God shine the brightest – “blameless and harmless, the sons of God without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Phil.2:15).

Is it possible, my friend, that God is summoning you out of the comfort of a convenient life into a contest for truth and justice; an epic battle against the encroaching powers of darkness, which are stalking our homes, our schools, our courts, our market places, and our churches? Is it possible that you’re the one who can stop the plague?

All it takes is the right man at the right time.

Arthur Hugh Clough said it best in his little poem -- “Say not, ‘The struggle naught availeth; the labor and the toils are vain. The enemy shrinks not, nor faileth. As things have been, so they remain.’ For if hopes be dupes, then fears be liars. It may be even now, your comrades in yon smoke concealed, chase the fliers – and, but for you, possess the field.”

Your part matters far more than perhaps you may even realize; for you could be the voice that turns the battle, the life that makes the difference, that light that shines brightest in the darkest hour.

Making a Difference

“Doing, not hearing, is what makes the difference with God.” Romans 2:13, The Message

Rick Meyers is a friend of mine, and he has done an extraordinary thing. Several years ago he was employed as a machinist in Oregon, where he worked the night shift on an assembly line in a blue-collar, dead end job. “Wait a minute,” he said to himself one evening, “this isn’t working for me. I can’t do this for the rest of my life.”

He bought a computer and began teaching himself programming. He obviously had a knack for this, and doors began to open. He was hired by a company to help develop software that operated their equipment, which gave him the opportunity to learn the skills necessary to find and fix bugs in the programming modules. His abilities were increasing, as were his opportunities.

He began traveling the country conducting seminars and workshops, training others how to use the software he had developed. One of these trips brought him to Tennessee, where the doors opened for another job. He and family sensed this was a move they should make.

Once in Tennessee, settled in to his job and a healthy church, he found himself struggling with a popular Bible software program. “Wait a minute,” he thought to himself, “why don’t I just write my own study program?” And that’s what he did. He sent copies of it to a few pastors and friends, to get their input on what would make it even better; you know, more user-friendly. After a few tweaks, Rick launched his Bible software program online, offering it completely free of charge to anyone who wanted it.

That was in the year 2000. Right now, as of this writing, over 7 million downloads in 167 countries around the world have occurred. Just in one month the bandwidth use is an average of fifteen terabytes; that’s 15,000 gigabytes; and that’s a whole lot! You can download your own copy by going to www.e-sword.net.

It is indisputably the best Bible study tool available today. And it is free.

God has not only blessed the works of his hands, but the Lord has poured great blessings out upon Rick and his family. He found out what God had wired him to do, and he has done it with extraordinary success.

God alone knows the eternal effect that Rick’s decision has had in the lives of millions; but we can be sure of this one thing. Much would have been lost to this world had he settled for the night shift in Oregon.

What about you? What extraodinary thing can God do with your life?