Category: Fear - Jethro TOOLS

Enduring Example

7/26/2026

Matthew 1:18-25
Moral relativism believes that there are no absolutes of right or wrong, and thus there is no absolute truth. This leads to the belief that a universal moral code is not necessary because each person determines what is right. In other words the person holding a morally relativistic position will withhold judgment. However, across the world various cultures have set moral and ethical standards. These standards of moral code guide that society toward peace and a cohesive unity. At times those standards will be enforced through shame, guilt or fear. To remove any doubt, there are standards that are defined by a pure and holy God that are applicable for all cultures of all time. In the first chapter of Matthew cultural standards are at work. Mary was found to be pregnant (18). The cultural commitment in the betrothal or engagement period required complete fidelity. For Joseph the cultural condemnation was clear, yet God’s direction was just as clear. God called Joseph to do what was opposite to the current culture and take Mary as his wife (20). Joseph now faced a dilemma. Should he follow the culture and avoid the personal shame and distance himself from Mary, or should he bear the shame and follow God’s direction? Joseph’s obedience was clear. He chose to listen to God’s voice. We can hold Joseph up as the example to follow. He carried the cultural shame of that decision as he daily faced the cultural scorn and reproach. Yet Joseph is only the example not the one we are to copy. Hebrews 12:1-3 reminds us that our life has a purpose to be a living example of enduring faith. Our focus is to be on Jesus Christ who obediently endured the shame of the cross to give us new life. We need consistent obedience to God’s word and faithful endurance to live as an example of righteous faith for our culture. Christ is to be exalted in us (Philippians 1:20).

For More See MATTHEW

Appearing of the King

4/5/2026

John 20:19-23
A new movie was released in December 2019 called Togo. The setting is the 1925 diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska. A dog musher by the name of Leonhard Seppala was sent to pick up a bundle of medical serum. Together with his dog team, that was led by Togo, they raced over 250 miles to bring the life saving serum to the dying people of Nome. Like Seppala we as believers face many problems in this life. John writes, in John 20, that Jesus sent His followers out with a task to deliver the life saving message of forgiveness and salvation through Him. His presence with them brought peace regardless of the present problems. Jesus promised His continued power in their lives through the present working power of the Holy Spirit. The disciples were sent to live out His purpose in their life as they proclaimed the message of forgiveness through Jesus to those dying without Him. We too have been sent to deliver the life saving message of Jesus. Like the disciples we may wall ourselves off from society out of fear of confrontation, and accusation of being connected to Jesus. Notice that Jesus shows up when least expected and most needed. The disciples were filled with fear. Easter Sunday reminds us that because of the resurrection of Jesus we can live a new life with God’s power. Do you believe that Jesus rose from the grave to change everything? The reality that Jesus is alive changes everything. The peace that comes through believing Christ overcomes fear. The power to serve is found in God’s enablement. We are given a purpose to live for Him and proclaim freedom and forgiveness through Jesus. As you look at your life and your world, what is unsettling and uncertain for you? Jesus came to forgive sin and give new life and new power to live for Him. What we believe will change the way we live.

For More See JOHN

Courage in the Culture

1/11/2026

Ephesians 3:12-21
Obstacles and opposition; these are the problems that courage overcomes. However, as I stood shaking, my courage was gone. Zip, zap, gone. It all started with an invitation to an obstacle course. Two unimposing poles stood in the clearing. The challenge was to climb the first pole, stand on the top and then jump and grab on to the second pole. Sounds easy, right? Even with safety ropes and a harness strapped to me the pole still swayed. Somehow I managed to climb up and stand on the flat top of the pole that was no larger than a small dinner plate. That is when it hit. I lost all courage and excitement for this insane adventure. It is amazing how I could stand on almost nothing and the eight feet to the next pole was an impossible leap of faith. I froze in fear. I had lost my courage to overcome the obstacle. The same in true in our lives. Fear keeps us from moving forward, while faith motivates us with the knowledge that nothing will harm us. In Paul’s letter to the Ephesian church, chapter three is the transitional hinge from theological truths to practical application. Paul closes the first half of the letter with a prayer for their inner strength (16). He does not pray for external or physical solutions, instead, he prays for their inner perspective. He desires that they know Christ and His power and love for them (17-19). At the point of salvation the believer in Jesus positionally comes into instant possession of all the resources available in Christ. Paul is challenging His readers to not only believe in their head, but know experientially by faith, the vast resources of Christ that give freedom to live courageously for Christ. Knowing Christ is like the safety line on the obstacle course. That relationship allows us to courageously take steps of faith in obedience to Christ call. That perspective and practice is counter to our culture.

For More See EPHESIANS

Discouragement

10/12/2025

1 Kings 19:1-18
Talk about discouragement. I watched as all my hard work slid to one side and oozed all over the bottom of the refrigerator. It all started with a dream. I had heard a news report where a baker combined a cake with a pie. The concept is fairly simple. Take a fully baked pie and turn it upside down in a cake pan. Next, pour a cake mix over the pie and bake. Repeat the process with two more pies and complementary cakes, then turn them over, stack them together, slather them with icing and enjoy. My problem was that the cherry pie was not firm enough and the chocolate cake was not cool enough. My elaborate dream ended up in a disastrous pile of goo in the fridge. What a mess! My wife and I laughed, because that is all we could do. I was disillusioned and discouraged. However, with new hope, a new plan and new pies I was able to finally pull off a towering delight that combined three cakes and three pies. First Kings 18 records the events of the disillusioned and discouraged prophet Elijah. Previously, Elijah had seen God perform a great victory over the false prophets, provide rain to the drought parched land, and the energy to out run the king and his chariot. Now, Elijah was spiritually disillusioned with the results of Mt. Carmel, physically drained from running, and emotionally discouraged. Has your dream turned to despair? Elijah was there. The queen threatened his life and he ran in fear (19:3). How can we live life with God’s point of view and not discouragement and fear? This Bible text calls us to remember God’s past work, believe that God is in control, find strength in God, listen to His word and follow His directions. When we do, God becomes central and the circumstances become secondary.

For More See 1 KINGS

Sufficiency of God

9/21/2025

Habakkuk 3:3-19
Recently I watched an actor portray Lewis Sperry Chafer giving a speech, as part of a centennial celebration at Dallas Theological Seminary. In the speech Chafer is attributed as saying, “It is not the size of the man that counts. Not even the size of the dream. Rather it’s the size of the God who gives the dream to the man.” Our aspirations, however big or small are finite compared to the all powerful work of the all powerful God who can do more than we can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20-21). God is never limited by humanity, but we as people are limited by our view and practice of confident faith in a sufficient and sovereign God. How we view God and His power makes all the difference to our perspective, and practice of faith. Habakkuk was enabled to see God and His sovereign power at work (3-7). God’s power is displayed through His unchangeable nature. Like Habakkuk, we also can have a confident hope in God who is faithful and unchanging. Even though our world is constantly changing God does not. Habakkuk closes out this chapter with his song honoring God and the confident faith that He instills within the prophet (16-19). Habakkuk confidently states that he has found God to be sufficient in all areas of his life even if everything is taken away (17). His joy is in God who saves him (18). Like Habakkuk our life is to tell the story of God’s sufficiency. He alone enables us to live a new life free from fear of the uncertainties and perils and to declare His supreme greatness. God is sufficient. Through Jesus, He has come to give us hope and conquer the control of sin in our life. Like Habakkuk our purpose is found in praising God’s work. Our proper view of God’s sufficiency and strength will guide our life and practice of walking by faith. God is enough.

For More See HABAKKUK

Members Who Serve

8/24/2025

Romans 12:1-8
What motivates you? We may be motivated by hunger so we begin a search for food. We may be motivated by self protection so we live life fearing many things. We may be motivated by greatness so we live a life focused on our fantasy of self elevation. There are many things that may motivate us. Satan even used hunger, pride and self preservation as motivating factors to tempt Jesus (Luke 4:1-13). But a temptation is only a temporary motivation, because once we yield the temptation we find that it does not satisfy. Even John, one of the disciples, mentions the fleeting nature of our worldly desires (1 John 2:17). So where should we look to find something worth living for, a lasting motivation? In Romans 12, Paul urges his audience to present themselves wholly to God because He is worthy (1-2). In other words, the believer is to be motivated serve God because of what Jesus Christ has done for them. Sin and self are no longer master of the believer. Christ has saved the believer to be conformed to Him and changed by Him. The believer is to be dedicated to God alone (1-2) and serve God’s purposes alone (3-8). Worldly thinking says that our purpose and motivation in living should be found in what we gain for our self. Ion the other hand the believer in Jesus Christ, who has been transformed by Christ, marches to a different drum beat and follows a different master. As a member of Christ body, the church, the believer in Jesus finds their significance in serving others and building the body. Self is removed from the center and Christ now rules the body, mind and action of the believer. Christ has not only saved us from sin, but He has saved us for His purpose of being a blessing that builds others for His kingdom. What motivates you?

For More See ROMANS

Darkness & Hope

12/8/2024

Isaiah 8:1-9:2
“Hey! Watch this!” That phrase is the beginning of what turns into a viral internet video. However, it normally does not end well. There is some sort of unspectacular splat into a puddle of sloppy mud. A miss on a throw, or an ungraceful flip that lacked execution leaving the performer in a pile and in pain. In many ways the people of Isaiah’s day had been playing a game of spiritual performance. They may have acted good trying to check the spiritual boxes, but in reality they were far from the mark of pleasing God. In fact Isaiah records the spiritual darkness of the people by describing their lack of trust in God. He says in chapter eight that they sought other sources of spiritual authority and spiritual direction (19-20). Their searching led them to seek other sources to satisfy their spiritual hunger (21). The result is that they have a limited spiritual perspective as all they see is filled with darkness, fear and gloom (22). Their spiritual acrobatics have been pitiful and not worthy of praise from God. They are left stumbling around in their problems and pain. They should have turned to God for help and direction in dealing with the sin in their lives and in their nation. So God hid His face from His people (17) and allowed them to continue in the path of their distrust leading to their despair and destruction. However, out of the darkness of sin that is pictured in Isaiah 8 a new reality of hope is described in chapter 9:1-2. In spite of the people rejecting God for other solutions He offers mercy and grace by offering His hope and salvation found in Jesus. God calls to the sinful world, “Hey! Watch this!” And Jesus was born to give God’s light and hope to all who are lost in the darkness of sin without Him.

For More See ISAIAH or CHRISTMAS

The Disciple's Clarity

1/15/2023

Matthew 10:24-33
What makes a good job great? Many would answer by saying, higher wages, more time off, and improved benefits. However, the greatest single factor that will help an organization is leadership. Research consistently shows that good leadership will benefit an organization and help retain employees. We like a consistently organized boss that cares about us, and organizes our work by producing everything we need to do the job. We also like to have an orderly work place. None of us will tolerate continual chaos. We live with a desire to be in charge or follow good leaders. This all is the result of being created in God’s image. You see, we were created with an internal sense and desire for order by an orderly God. Our desire for order and clearly defined authority in work is a small redemptive glimpse of our deep desire for God to control our world and our life. The problem is, we may want God’s order and authority, but often do not submit to it. As we examine Matthew 10 we note that Jesus is preparing to send His disciples out on a ministry assignment. He describes to the twelve that they must clearly understand authority as they go (24-33). Why? Jesus makes it clear that when confronted with persecution the disciple must know the truth and imitate Christ (24-25). Secondly, when faced with fears the disciple will be confident in the authority and power of Christ (26-31). Third, the disciple who believes the authority of Christ will speak of Christ (32-33). It is interesting to note that Jesus began this training session by giving the disciples authority as mentioned in verse one. Do we clearly understand Christ’s authority? Do we live by His power and authority, confidently proclaiming His name and greatness? Has Christ truly transformed us?

For more see MATTHEW or DISCIPLESHIP

Christmas & Influence

12/27/2022

Luke 1-2
Influence is the ability to bring change to a situation or person based on insight, knowledge, and power. An influencer is someone who uses their personal ability to promote the change. In our world of technology, companies will contract influencers to promote their product. Those who watch and follow these influencers are then influenced to use the product them selves. However, there is not a single influencer who is able to influence everyone. In contrast, as we consider the events of Christmas, we see that God uses His influence and sovereign power to bring necessary change into our world. First, God displays His sovereign influence over nature and the rules of conception, as seen in Mary; and the standard operation of the sky, as seen with the shepherds and wise men. Second, God displays His sovereign influence over people, as He gathers a cast of unrelated and unconnected characters to converge on the little town of Bethlehem. Mary and Joseph traveled from the North, shepherds came from the fields and wise men traveled from the East. All these people were under the influence and direction of God, and submissive to His leading and plan. This leaves one last group, us. We, as people, are easily overwhelmed and influenced by schedules, events, catastrophes, and changes to our individual world. However, the Christmas season brings us face to face with the reality that the sovereign God has brought hope and change to our world through the birth of Jesus. The good news of Jesus’ birth and salvation should continually influence us. When changes come, do not fear, but submit and trust God like Mary and Joseph. When information is given by God, respond with joy and tell others like the shepherds. When God’s direction is made clear, follow wholeheartedly like the wise men.

For more see LUKE or SYMBOLS OF CHRISTMAS

What Are You Doing Here?

5/15/2022

1 Kings 19:1-14
Years ago I learned the value of sunglasses while on a fishing trip. The sun was out and the water was clear, but the fish were not biting. I could sort of see the fish in the stream but my lure was just not getting to them. The problem involved a scientific term known as light refraction. This is an optical illusion where light changes direction when in contact with water. The reality behind the science is that my hook was traveling behind the fish and not in front of the fish where it could be seen. I only learned that after using sunglasses from another fisherman that cut down the light so I could see clearly. Just as our physical perspective can be skewed without sunglasses so our spiritual perspective can be distorted without God’s perspective. In 1 Kings 19 Elijah came to the point of believing that he was the only one left serving God (10, 14). In reality he was not alone because there were over 7000 who had not bowed down to the idol Baal (18). However, his twisted perspective led to disillusionment and discouragement. How can we live to see God’s perspective when we are distracted by discouragement? First we need to rely on God’s perspective and not be influenced by the fear of evil that surrounds us (1-4). Next we must depend on God provision (5-8) and remain where He has placed us (9-10). Discouragement will lead to fear and running away yet God calls us to trust Him. Finally, we need to seek God’s presence (11-14). God brought Elijah to a place where he saw God’s power and heard God’s voice. Today, God still asks, “What are you doing here?” Like Elijah we often get to this location because of fear. God helps us live by faith with His perspective.

For more see QUESTIONS FROM GOD

Be Faithful

2/27/2022

Revelation 2:8-11
I had noticed the small but also big footprints that are distinct of a rabbit in the snow around my house. I was not surprised knowing that we have a family of rabbits that have made our garden their home. However, I was surprised to see a rabbit come racing out from under the steps as I was cleaning up the most recent snowfall. With typical wide eyed fear the little guy stopped for just a moment to see if I was a friend, foe, or just the obnoxious landlord. Having determined I was the latter he raced off without giving me a second glance. A rabbit naturally wants to stay out of sight or run away from what sees them. The pressure of survival easily raises their fears and places them in a state of stress. Funny; are we not like rabbits in many ways? In Revelation 2 we see John record the words of Jesus to the second church, the church of Smyrna. Jesus knew they had already suffered much which led to their poverty (9), and that their suffering was going to increase (10). For the church in Smyrna there is not much hope. However, Jesus tells them not to be afraid and to be faithful (10). Why? He does not criticize or correct Smyrna, instead Jesus reminds this persecuted and fearful church that He is sovereign and has overcome death (9). Like the church in Smyrna it is easy for us to be so preoccupied with survival that we neglect seeing Jesus as the one who has the solution even if we do die. Our tendency is to be like the rabbit and run to survive on our own. We are reminded not to be afraid, even of death. Jesus offers life to those that remain faithful even to the point of death. That is hope for those in distress.

For more see REVELATION

Zechariah: Saved by Grace

11/21/2021

Luke 1:5-25
I remember my first time in a severe thunderstorm. I was jolted awake as powerful claps of thunder jarred the building and sent flashes of lightning piercing the dark night sky. I literally thought that there was a war going on right outside my window. With my heart pounding in my chest I crept to the window and very cautiously lifted the edge of the curtain. My fear instantly subsided as I enjoyed an electric light show in the middle of the night. How do we respond when something is new or unexpected? In Luke chapter 1 we are introduced to Zechariah, an old priest (1-5), who had an obvious problem. He was old and his wife, Elizabeth, was unable to have children. God sent an angel to deliver a message of hope to Zechariah (8-17) but he responds in fear and unbelief (18-20). Because of his response God made him unable to speak until his son was born. The story of Zechariah is the beginning of the Christmas story, but it is also a story of thanks. Through Zechariah we see the inability of humanity to solve their problems contrasted with the ability of God to solve humanity's problems. God displayed grace to Zechariah by providing a son and solving his problem. The response of Zechariah is praise of God for His salvation. Through his life and the lessons he learned Zechariah pictures the message of the gospel. First is our human inability to deal with sin. Second is God’s ability to provide salvation by His grace through Jesus, His son. God has saved us by grace just like Zechariah illustrated with his life. The outcome is our praise. May our thanksgiving be filled with gratefulness for what we have in God’s unexpected grace.

For more see CHRISTMAS

Delivered to Declare Praise

11/14/2021

Exodus 15:1-21
Have you ever written a song? I had the unimagined torture of composing a song for a college music appreciation class. It was a very unpleasant experience because music and I do not get along. If I remember correctly my masterpiece was a composition that combined the music of Mary had a Little Lamb with the words of the poem Roses are Red and Violets are Blue. Go ahead and laugh, but believe me you would never add it to your favorite music list. It was not easy listening or catchy. It was just a dreaded requirement that was needed to pass a dreadful class. The class never grabbed my interest, so I did as little as possible to get a passing grade. However, when it comes to our relationship with God we should always be singing His praises. How do we praise God? Exodus 15 provides an example from the life of Moses and the people of Israel that we can follow. First, we need to declare what God has done (1-5). We tell what we have seen God do in our lives. Second, we need to describe God’s power (6-12). We should tell of God’s strength that worked in a way that we could not. Third, we need to define God’s difference (13-18). We simply tell how God works and delivers in ways that are completely unique to get us to where we are. When we use these verses as a guide to praise God it will be glorious music to God’s ears and to all who hear, which is much better than my clumsy composition for music class. So, let the world hear your song of how God has saved you and how He alone is completely unique and worthy of your praise.

Psalm 19:14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

God's Victory

11/7/2021

Exodus 14:23-31
The movie Ford v Ferrari, that was released in 2019, tells a story from 1966 of the 24 Hours of LeMans. This is an endurance car race that takes place for 24 hours in the French city of LeMans each year. For years Italian automaker Ferrari, had dominated this racing circuit. However, in the 1960’s US automakers began to respond to the demand for faster and sportier cars. They believed that winning car races was one way to prove to the buying public that their car brand was faster. Ford Motor Company set out to do just that in the 24 Hours of LeMans. To make a long story short Ford built a car that accomplished their goal and Ferrari was soundly defeated at Lemans. In much the same way God displayed His authority and completely destroyed the Egyptian army in Exodus 14. Pharaoh’s army persisted in pursuing Moses and the Israelites (23-25), but God caused confusion and chaos and their final calamity. God displayed His power over nature by holding the water in place for the Israelites and then caused it to return to its place covering the Egyptian army (26-28). God delivered His people (29-31). Israel saw the soldiers that they once feared now lifeless and they believed God (31). The lessons for us today are clear. God will not allow any power to thwart His purpose or destroy His plan. He will use any means necessary to display His greatness and gain His victory. God’s goal is to display His power to gain His honor and our commitment to follow Him alone. Do we really believe that He alone is the all powerful God? Let us believe God always and live by faith as we follow Him each day.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

Deliverance for God's Honor

10/24/2021

Exodus 14:15-22
At one point in time we lived in a remote community that was accessible only by small planes. Sure, in the summer you could travel in by boat, but the most efficient form of travel was by plane. There is one problem with travel by airplane and that is weather. Pilots must know the flight routes and often rely on visual landmarks. When the clouds are thick and low the pilot can’t see and it is unsafe to fly. When the planes did not fly, supplies, groceries, and mail did not arrive. When the weather was good the planes roared right over our house on the way in or out of the airfield. The plane was our lifeline delivering food, mail and providing the way out. The problem was the weather. In Exodus 14:15-22 we see that the physical surroundings do not limit God’s capability to deliver His people. He directs the people to move (15-18) and protects them in the process (19-20). God faithfully acts to deliver His people by doing what is humanly impossible (21-22). There are three very clear lessons from this passage. First, God makes His directions clear when the situation seems impossible. Second, God protects from what seems most probable. Third, God makes a way in the impossible possible. God’s purpose was to gain His honor. Likewise, we need to constantly remember that God will work in the situations of life to not only deliver His people but also to gain His honor. However, often because of fear, our focus is only on the deliverance. God desires that we follow Him in faith, believing that He will deliver, and seek to honor Him in the process. Let me encourage you to follow God and seek His honor. He will deliver.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

Danger When Following God

10/17/2021

Exodus 14:1-14
Paralyzed with fear… Have you ever been there? One time I climbed a pole on an obstacle course and had to stand on the swaying top which was about the size of a dinner plate. Once on top, and 20 to 30 feet in the air, I had to jump to another similar pole about 8 feet away. I knew I had a safety line that would catch me, but as I stood on top of the swaying pole I could not make my body jump. Eventually, I threw myself off my perilous perch, missed the other pole, but was caught by the safety line. It is amazing how quickly I forgot the confidence and security that the safety line provided. Likewise, in Exodus 14:1-14 we see the nation of Israel forget the strength and protection of God. They had just seen God humble Pharaoh, the most powerful king at that time. Now they look up to see that Pharaoh has changed his mind about releasing them (5-9) and is now racing after them with horses and chariots. They responded in fear (10-12) seeing only their coming destruction not the power and protection of God. Moses then stepped in and delivered God’s message to the people (13-14) saying three things. First, do not fear; second, stand firm; and third, see God’s salvation because He will fight for you. Like the nation of Israel, fear will often paralyze us and blind us from seeing the power of God. We struggle to control danger and fix it before it hurts us. Fear calls us into action to protect ourselves from danger, but faith tells us to be still and let God fight. Our response to danger and fear is a chance to honor God and let Him display His greatness in our situation and through us.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

Dependence of Faith

10/10/2021

Exodus 13:17-22
Have you ever wondered where you are going? This is a question that involves more than just a road. This question involves a life direction and the purpose of that direction. A number of years ago I sat in Edward’s kitchen drinking coffee and talking with him late into the night. The conversation turned to how God leads us to certain locations at different times of our life for His purposes. I still recall his words, “God places you in muddy waters so you can clean them up.” Those simple yet profound words reminded me of God’s leading presence and my need to depend on Him alone. In my human perspective I may only see certain things, but God is at work not only in the situation but also in me to develop a faith that depends on Him. In Exodus 13:17-22 God leads the nation of Israel out of Egypt. The people needed a faith in God that depended on Him alone. God’s path out of Egypt required faith because it was not the direct route (17-18). God knew the people would turn back to Egypt if they faced conflict, so He led them in a different direction. In life we may want the direct route, but God sees the obstacles and wants to build our faith to depend on Him. We may want the efficient route but God measures efficiency in faith that depends on Him. God’s purpose in all the places that He takes us is to develop our faith to depend on Him at all times. God’s path is one of peace, as we depend fully on Him, even though the water may seem muddy at times. God’s purpose is to work in the situation and in us, to bring us hope and build our dependence on Him.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

Pass on the Faith

10/2/2021

Exodus 13:1-16
Have you ever looked out over the edge of a building or been on some other high elevated place and felt that shiver of a chill go up your spine? One misstep and you are over the edge falling out of control. The Wallenda family has lived with the thrills of exhilarating heights and chilling fears of a misstep. Karl Wallenda was the founding member of the Flying Wallendas, an aerial tightrope walking group that performed high wire circus acts. Unfortunately he fell to his death in 1978 while performing in PuertoRico. His great grandson Nikolas (Nik) Wallenda is one of the family members continuing the legacy of aerial high wire walking. Even more important, Nikolas Wallenda accepted Jesus as his savior. That is a legacy of faith being passed on. In Exodus 13 we see God lay out the importance of passing on one’s faith to others. In these verses God defines what He wants from the people of Israel. First, they were to be distinct (1-2). Every firstborn animal or human was to be dedicated to God. They were given directions to help them remember God’s work and build their faith (3-7). Third, through a yearly ceremony, they were to tell their children how great God is (8-10). This would lead others to see the dedication of their faith (11-13) and their loyal loving devotion to following God in faith (14-16). Today, God still calls us to remember Him, follow Him, and pass on our faith in Him. We need to trust God and not allow our fears to keep us from following His plans for our lives. God provides the spiritual stability in a physically unstable world. When we pass on our faith we state that God is the source of our strength and stability when life moves like an aerial wire.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

Worship in Faith

9/26/2021

Exodus 12
Quite a while ago I had to get my vehicle worked on and the mechanic noticed the parking permit on my windshield and asked, “Are you a preacher?” I responded affirming his observation. At that point he became a bit embarrassed about his poor choice of words at times. I assured him that I was not offended. A short while later I went to pay the bill by providing a debit card. Unknown to us there was a problem with the machine that day. As he scanned my card the machine responded with the message “Redemption.” He looked at me in shock and said, “You must really be a preacher even the machine says so.” The first card did not work so I produced a second, and the same message of “Redemption” appeared. He looked at me with a smile and said, “Well I can’t believe it, I have had redemption twice in one day.” He was amazed that I forgave him and I praised God for the past conversations and His present work in the life of this man. That is worship. However, often we think that worship only happens at church. Worship is much more than what happens one day a week for one hour at church. Worship involves all of life (see Romans 12:1-2). In Exodus 12 God institutes a special feast so the people would continue to remember His powerful action of deliverance from Egypt (1-11). It was to be a joy filled celebration remembering God’s power and faithfulness (14-28). Like the nation of Israel we are called to worship by remembering God’s action of redemption through Christ. In doing so we reaffirm our belief and help others renew their faith in the God of redemption. Let us worship in faith and live to proclaim God’s redemption.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

Following God's Plan

9/19/2021

Exodus 11
The 2004 sports film titled Miracle reenacts the journey of the 1980 American Olympic Hockey team and their quest to win Olympic gold. The pivotal moment in this movie comes after a lackluster performance in an exhibition game against Norway. Even though they tied the Norwegian team the coach, Herb Brooks, made them stay and skate long after the ice arena shut down for the night. Herb Brooks continually instructs that they skate the on ice drill one more time. Finally, the exhausted team captain hollers his name and states that he plays for the United States. That moment ended the drill and solidified the team as they now understood that they played for one team and for one purpose. In Exodus 11 God now says that He will act one more time “so that My wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 11:9). Previously, God had sent 9 plagues with increasing levels of intensity yet Pharaoh refused to submit. One would think that by this time Egypt and Israel would have learned the power of God. However, God was working to multiply how the Egyptians and Israelites viewed His greatness. He wanted His people to know that He alone was the sovereign God above all who deserves their complete submission and loyal following. God displayed His power multiple times through the plagues in order to build faith in Him alone. Today, just like Moses, we may be impatiently waiting for God to finish what He is doing. We want God to deliver but we have not seen it. When we find ourselves in that situation we need not fear because God is at work. We need faith to see that God is at work and we need to follow His plans that always work.

For more see FEAR, FAITH & FOLLOWING

God of Power

9/12/2021

Exodus 7-11
Buzz… There it was, an active bee nest under an old tree in the corner of my yard. On my own I was powerless to handle them. I would be stung and forced into submission, running from their nest. However, I knew that there was a cure for this conqueror of my yard. A simple can of bee spray knocked out the nest. I needed the bee spray to free me from the problem of being held captive by angry and aggressive bees. In Exodus 7-10 Moses, under God’s direction, continues to confront Pharaoh and demand that Israel be released to worship God. Repeatedly Pharaoh refuses and God proceeds to bring ten plagues as judgment against Pharaoh and the nation of Egypt. Through each of these plagues God displays His supreme power over the strength of Pharaoh and the gods that Egypt worshiped. But, Pharaoh refused to submit and the plagues increased in severity. The first ones started by bringing difficulty, then they moved to bringing sever discomfort and finally destruction of the nation. The most powerful nation of its time found its economy, resources and people in shambles. All of this brings up an important question. How do we respond when we are confronted with God’s power? Do we continue to fight God and firmly hold to our incorrect beliefs and our power like Pharaoh? Remember, the bees could not withstand the power of the bee spray and Pharaoh could not stand against God’s power. We need to respond to God’s display of power in our life and world by submitting to Him. God desires that we recognize Him as God alone, worship Him as God alone and follow Him alone. May God give us the faith to follow Him completely as we trust in His power for each day.

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Follow God's Lead

9/5/2021

Exodus 7:1-13
Some of you may groan, while some of you will shout with joy. Why? Well, in a couple of months we will see our first snow. The arrival of snow brings various winter activities including hockey. In the game of hockey the opposing teams try to score on the opposite goal. When some of the rules of play are broken a penalty is assessed. The player charged with the penalty is removed from playing for at least two minutes while his team must play shorthanded. That is called a power play. With this advantage the stronger team presses to score a goal over the weaker team. In much the same way we see a power play take place in Exodus 7:1-13, except Pharaoh incorrectly believes that he has the advantage. God makes His plan of action very clear to Moses (1-4) and outlines His purpose (5). God states what He will do and that the goal is for the Egyptians to know that He is the LORD. God directs Moses with His ability and works by His power (8-13) to display His strength to Pharaoh. For us today we must follow God’s leading. Like Moses, the advancement of God’s message should be our passion. We must believe that the plans of God are only accomplished through God’s power, while the resistance to God’s message is God’s problem. As believers in Jesus Christ we are called to live these principles by faith following His leadership as His people. Moses submitted to God’s leadership in his life while Pharaoh resisted God’s power. When we follow God’s leading we submit to His power and submit to His work through our lives. Like Moses, we need to allow God’s power to be displayed through us so others can know that the LORD alone is God. That is God’s power play.

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Discouragement of Faith

8/29/2021

Exodus 5-6
Fishing was the best way to spend the afternoon. So my brothers and I decided to load my car and head toward the river. After some fishing we decided to part ways. My brothers would fish their way up the river and I would drive to the river canyon and scout better fishing locations. The goal was to meet at the canyon. After scouting for fish and not finding any I decided to wash the car. This was my first car so like any teenager I wanted to keep it shiny. I found a perfect little pond and backed in and then, with wisdom that was a bit late, decided to see if I could drive out. Nothing happened as the tires spun on wet slimy rocks. I was discouraged as my brothers walked up laughing at my predicament. We then had a long hike to beg a family friend for a tow. I still remember his words, “You are stuck where?” In many ways that’s what discouragement does. It keeps us stuck in places that we don’t need to be. In Exodus 5:1-5 Moses and Aaron deliver God’s message to Pharaoh. It was not accepted and in their discouragement the people blamed Moses and Moses blamed God (Ex. 5:15-22). God encouraged Moses to see His perspective (Ex. 6:1-8), yet discouragement blinded the eyes of the people and Moses (Ex. 6:9-13). God wanted the problems to deepen their faith and transform their trust in Him. However, discouragement only sees the problem not God who is bigger than the problem. My problem and discouragement caused me to turn to a friend for a tow. My friend just laughed at my problem because he had a solution to my problem. We all get discouraged. Just remember that God is bigger than the problem. Keep trusting Him.

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Submission to God

8/22/2021

Exodus 4:18-31
Wrestling is a technical sport that seeks to combine the wrestlers strength and physics to overcome the opponent or at least score more points for a technical win. Within the various forms of wrestling there is a submission move called the tap out. This is simply where one opponent sees that they are trapped and unable to overpower or out maneuver their opponent so they tap the other wrestler with their hand. The stronger wrestler then releases their hold once the opponent has submitted and taped out. In Exodus 4 God reminds Moses of His power and Moses learns to submit. Moses still had concerns and fears for his life but God displayed His power and calmed those fears by telling Moses that it was safe to return to Egypt (19). However, Moses had not fully submitted and was forced to learn that submission to God must be complete (24-26). Moses had not obeyed God and instead compromised by not acting on what God had required of the nation as a physical sign marking them as His (see Genesis 17:10). It was only after Moses learned to listen to God (18-23) and completely obey God (24-26) that he was able to freely speak for God (27-31). The lessons of submission to God’s word and God’s way had to be learned first before Moses could see God work among the people. Moses again learns that his work for God must be done God’s way under the direction of God’s word. Do you feel the squeeze of pain in your life? Sometimes God may use that to draw us to Him. Perhaps it is time to tap out and submit to God completely. He will help you live life by His strength as you follow Him in faith.

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Objection to God's Call

8/15/2021

Exodus 4:1-17
Suppose someone offered you a twenty dollar bill. I am sure you would take it. What if the bill was crumpled up into a ball, stepped on and then dumped in a mud puddle, would you still take it? For twenty dollars I am sure any one of us would accept it, clean it off, and then spend it. Why? Because, we simply understand the value of a twenty dollar bill. Regardless of its condition it is still worth twenty dollars. In Exodus 4 God continues His conversation with Moses that He started in the previous chapter. However, in chapter 4 Moses questions God’s call on his life. He questions if others will believe him (1), doubts his abilities (10) and asks God to send someone else (13). God counters each of his excuses by reminding Moses of His power (2-9), His presence (11-12) and His provision (14-17). All God wanted from Moses was faith to believe Him over his personal hangups and fears. Instead, he had allowed his fears and failure to rule his life, but now God was calling him to live a life of faith. Like the crumpled money, God saw Moses as valuable and usable under His direction. Many times, like Moses, we may only see our failures and feel the discouragement of inability creep in. We need to remember that the God who has called us for His purpose will equip us and guide us to carry His message. As Moses was told to carry the staff and proclaim God’s message, so we are to take the ordinary things of our lives and follow God in faith. God sees us as valuable and wants to use us, but sometimes we just need to crawl out of our thoughts and place our inability into His ability.

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