Category: Joy - Jethro TOOLS

Challenge the Culture

2/1/2026

Colossians 1:9-12
What can weigh over 100 pounds and is known as a semi aquatic rodent? If you guessed the beaver, you would be correct. A beaver will work tirelessly to build dams that create and expand its water habitat. This increase in water allows the beaver greater mobility, protection and access to more abundant sources of food. However, a busy beaver will also create conditions that attract incests, birds and fish. As beaver influenced wetlands increase so also do the benefits for migratory birds, deer and moose increase. A simple beaver will work tenaciously to bring lasting change and influence its surrounding community. Believers in Jesus Christ are to do the same. We are called to bring the message of Jesus to a world that is dry and in desperate need of His life giving water (see John 4). We influence our world for Christ by appropriating His power and seeing Him use us to bring His lasting change within our community. In Colossians 1 Paul prays that God would supply this church with an abundant supply of the knowledge of His will (9). He prays the they would find spiritual stability in living for God (10), and the spiritual strength to patiently endure under pressure (11). The disciple who understands that their past is paid by Christ, and their future is secure in Christ, is presently able to live a life of joy that honors Christ (12). Regardless of the circumstances the believer finds their secure standing in Christ. Knowing that we belong to Christ we therefore have hope in all circumstances. From the position of spiritual security we are able to give joyful thanks to God. We are called to challenge our culture by living counter to our culture and spread the contagious joy of knowing Christ within our culture. When we do, God will use us to leave a lasting spiritual legacy that will influence our culture for Him.

For More See COLOSSIANS

Christmas Time: Explained

12/24/2025

John 1:1-8
We are now into the Christmas season. Your mind and your calendar may be full with all the things that you need to accomplish between now and December 25. In our busyness we often forget or neglect the real meaning of Christmas, Jesus born as Savior of the world. The cradle does not exist without the cross. However, the Christmas story begins before the cradle. As John begins the fourth book in the New Testament he highlights six essential truths about Jesus the savior born in the manger. John opens the first chapter by explaining that Jesus is God’s personal communication to us (1). Second, he explains the preexistence of Jesus in the beginning (1). Thirdly, John explains that Jesus is God (1-2), who fourthly gives life (3-4). Fifth, John explains the opposition of the darkness and evil to the light and truth of God’s communication of Jesus as Savior (5). This finally leads John to explain his role as a messenger who declares that belief in Jesus is essential (6-8). God designed and planned to personally reveal Himself to mankind through Jesus. John writes these things so that we, his audience, may believe that Jesus is the Savior and by believing we may have life in His name (John 20:30-31). This message is true for the audience of John’s day and for us today. Has the power of God displayed to us through Jesus overcome your darkness? Belief in Jesus is essential for life in Him. It is only through belief in Him as savior that we find our true purpose in life. We have been designed to reveal His greatness and light to people lost in a dark world in need of the light and life found only in Jesus. May the joy of Jesus fill you with His message. May the light of Jesus guide you as you daily walk with Him. He came to give His life so we can have true life by believing in Him.

For More See JOHN

Christmas Time: Spoken

12/21/2025

Hebrews 1:1-4
A number of years ago my daughter gave me a short note on a small piece of paper. On it there were nine neatly written items that made up her birthday and Christmas wish list. At the bottom there was a star followed by an explanatory note, “Most Wanted.” Glancing back to the list a star highlighted item number seven which read, “Night Table - made by Dad.” Thus began a journey of cold weather construction in a cramped unheated shed. An individualized night table complete with a drawer was made for each of the kids and quietly placed by each of their beds very late on Christmas Eve. I have saved the note and use it as a book marker in my daily devotional book. It reminds me of the way that I need to come to my heavenly Father and ask for what is needed and that which I desire the most. A gift created by my father’s hands made just for me. Hebrews chapter 1 opens by telling us that God has consistently and repeatedly delivered messages revealing Himself and His plans for salvation (1). His best and most perfect form of communication was personally made through the sending Jesus to be our savior (2). Being God He is the perfect gift that has been communicated, but also provided (3). Jesus, fully God yet in human form (Philippians 2:5-9), is just what humanity needs most. He is far superior to any thing else that could grab our attention (4). Christmas time is often a time of secrets and trying to guess what a gift is. God understood our deepest need. He spoke, promised and delivered the very best gift, Jesus in the form of a baby. The great God who spoke the world into existence now displays the same power to save and transform our life. Jesus, is a gift given directly from the Father. What joy! What hope! God has communicated His love to us.

For More See HEBREWS

Christmas Time: Past

12/7/2025

Micah 5:2
The popular Christmas song, Over the River and Through the Woods, was originally written as a Thanksgiving poem by Lydia Maria Child who published it in 1844. Through the years the words have been slightly adjusted to reflect a Christmas theme. Included in the words of the song is the purpose, a holiday trip to see grandparents. There is a joy and expectation as the travelers await the promise of being with loved ones and enjoying time with them. Promises; we like it when they are kept and we become frustrated when they are broken. On a human level some will say promises are made to be broken. However, God always keeps His promises. Seven hundred years before the birth of Jesus the prophet Micah foretells the coming birth of a baby who will rule as king. As Micah records God’s words, under God’s inspired direction in chapter five, he predicts a specific place, Bethlehem, and a specific person who will rule (2). This child yet to be born will have a permanent rule as king who has been sent from God for a specific purpose. Micah 5:2 is one of the prophetic references that points to Jesus. Yet, it was years between the time of this writing and the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem; still, God kept His promise and brought about the incarnation through the birth of Jesus. As we enter the Christmas season, I hope that you experience joy as you reflect on God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises. We are called to believe God’s Word, trust that He will fulfill His promises and bring us to a joyous reunion in His home. That is only possible by believing that Jesus came to save us (Luke 19:10). The rule of Jesus as King in our hearts and lives will bring true peace. Are you trusting the King and His timing to bring you to His home?

For More See MICAH

New Life New Future

11/16/2025

John 14:1-7
Forever together, this is the thought forms the desire and plan for a wedding. Love motivates a young couple to begin thinking about the future and the celebratory start to that relationship called a wedding. In different cultures the process that moves toward the wedding will look different. When we look at the Bible and see a wedding we must realize that there are differences between now and then. In Jesus day the husband would make a promise to his future bride that he would come back for her. In the mean time he would go and build a house attached to his fathers house. When the house was completed the husband would return for his bride and take her to his fathers house for the wedding and its celebration. In John 14 Jesus speaks with His disciples regarding His departure. They are deeply troubled (1) but He reminds them that He will prepare a place at His fathers house for them (2) so that one day He will come back and bring them to be with Him (3). Jesus is using the cultural example of a wedding to explain the spiritual truth of the future for those who believe in Him. The only way to become part of God’s family is through a relationship with Jesus, His son. While waiting for His return those who believe have the joy of telling others of their wonderful savior. Do you know Jesus as your savior? Have you placed your faith in Him as your only savior? Jesus tells His followers, and us today, that belief in Him is the only way to gain entrance into heaven, His fathers house (6). Belief in His salvation is essential in order to be included in God’s family for all eternity. Each of us must answer the question, What will you do with Jesus? How we answer will determine our future for all eternity. Will you spend life with Him or separate from Him?

For More See JOHN

Revealed

2/23/2025

Philippians 2:1-11
One of my favorite types of online videos involves people rescuing lost or abandoned dogs. The story typically plays out in one of two ways. First, someone sees an abandoned dog in a certain location for a number of days and then returns with group of friends and a bag of hamburgers as a mouth watering incentive for the dog. The video ends with the dog being loaded into a car and heading off for a new life. The second, involves an abandoned dog in a shelter that has literally shut down emotionally and cowers in a far corner. Someone decides to make the effort, stepping into the cage and befriends the scared dog. Both scenarios end with the dog going to a new home with a new owner and with a happy look on their face. This all took place because someone was willing to step into the world of a dog that was lost and without hope. The same is true for the human race. We are stuck, and without hope of ever finding spiritual freedom and a new life of victory over sin. Philippians 2 tells us that hopeless situation changed when Jesus, as God, humbled Himself and served humanity by giving Himself to pay for our sin (8). He did this by stepping into our world, and became human like us (7). He stepped away from His position as God (6) to meet our greatest need. In love, Jesus graciously served helpless humanity by not only revealing Himself to us but also rescuing us. Just as the animal lovers seek to restore the lost dog and give it a new life, we need to remember that apart from God we are helpless and hopelessly lost in sin. However, when we experience God’s gracious gift of salvation given through Jesus we can then step into the world of others who are lost, and joyfully point them to Jesus and the new life He gives.

For More See PHILIPPIANS or SHEBA

The Disciple's Service

2/2/2025

Mark 10:42-45
Service with a smile. That phrase describes a business that is interested in making sure their customers are happy. They do the work to provide the customer with what they want and they do it with a pleasant attitude. Service is a great motto for company employees. If done well, it will draw in many more customers. The attitude along with the action makes all the difference. In Hebrews 12:1-2 the author uses the illustration of running a race to describe our life. There is a course of faith that we are called to run without distraction. That is done as we focus on the finish line and Jesus. He sacrificed and served all humanity through His death on the cross. His death brought us life, and He did it with joy. Christ served us, giving us what we needed most with joy. In Mark 10:45 Jesus states that he did not come to have others serve Him but to serve even to the point of giving his life to buy the release of many from the power of sin. His action of service was intentional, without wavering, and we are challenged to have the same humble attitude and serve (Philippians 2:5-8). Service is the action of doing, but also the proper attitude in doing. Yet we as people struggle with serving. We are very willing to rate a restaurant on the quality of their service, but don’t like it when we are asked to serve. We want others to serve us while we scream about our rights and need for respect. If anyone deserved to be served it was Jesus. Service for the disciple of Jesus takes on the hard task that brings the greatest benefit to others. We willingly humble ourselves in order for God’s message of salvation and the joy of knowing Him to flow through us. That is service with a smile. How is God calling you to serve and build His kingdom?

For More See MARK or DISCIPLESHIP

Message of Joy

12/29/2024

Isaiah 6:1-3
The Christmas letter… Long or short, it has turned into an annual feat that tests our writing skills and organization. As we attempt to summarize a year in words, or even photos we find ourselves being forced to become even more concise. What is the main idea that we want to communicate? What happened this year? What matters most that others need to hear? How can we communicate those key, life defining highlights of the past year? Have no fear, Christmas cards are here. If you are like me you will notice that many of the Christmas cards carry a theme of peace, hope or joy. Notice that the card companies do not promote happiness. Why is that? Happiness is a short term pleasure, whereas joy is long term sense of satisfaction that all is well. As we turn to Isaiah 61, we find that message of joy. This chapter opens with God’s select servant declaring the message of good news that He will bring (1). This people centered savior will bring joy that is found in God’s favor (2) to those who are broken, and held captive in the darkness of sin (1). That is definitely good news of great joy that is worth celebrating. The people looked forward to the day when this savior would come and deliver them from sin and restore His joy to their life and their land. Fast forward and we see Jesus quote these same words in Luke 4:14-21 as he began His earthly ministry. In His own words He stated that He is the promised one spoken of in Isaiah 61. Jesus brought God’s good news of salvation to all people. For us, that good news should still bring a deep sense of satisfaction. That is joy worth writing about in the annual Christmas letter. The joy that we have in Jesus as our savior needs to be heard from us all year.

For More See ISAIAH or CHRISTMAS

Worship the King

12/22/2024

Matthew 2:1-12
The other day as I walked into church I was swarmed by some bubbly bouncing children. Hollering out my name they excitedly asked, “Do you know what day it is?” I was certain that it was Saturday, but decided to play along, “No, I do not know what day it is.” It was then that it all spilled out from various directions, one of them had a birthday that day and another one had a birthday the very next day. With all the excitement and jumping around I was able to join in the celebration by singing Happy Birthday. As Christmas is almost upon us I am getting very excited. Do you know whose birthday it is? In Matthew 2 we pick up the Christmas story of some very excited Magi, commonly known as Wisemen. These men were led by God to come and worship the new king that was born (1-2). Their inquiry of the new king deeply troubled the current king (3-6) because he and the others surrounding him were not interested in another king (7-8). Disregarding the discouraging response the Magi remained intent on following God’s direction to the new born king (9). Arriving at the house they were not somber. Instead they were filled with joy (10) and humbly honored Jesus, the baby born to be our Savior and king (11-12). God graciously invited the foreign dignitaries to come and worship and they did so with honest joyful expectation. Do you know whose birthday it is? At Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Like the Magi, a true desire to worship will align our heart with God’s in a proper attitude of joy and humility that seeks to serve Him alone with all that we have. This Christmas lets truly celebrate the birth of Jesus as we submit to Him as the king of our life.

For More See MATTHEW or CHRISTMAS

Walk in Wisdom

5/12/2024

Ephesians 5:15-21
The terms wise guy and wise man are different. A wise guy refers to a person who makes sarcastic responses. However, on the other hand, a wise man is different. In the second term, wisdom is used to describe the person that does wise things. So what is wisdom? How is true wisdom different from someone using a witty comeback? In order to effectively answer that question we must clarify the difference between knowledge, understanding and wisdom. First, knowledge is knowing what is right. This is knowing in your head what is the right response. Second, understanding is discerning what is right. This is understanding the right response to the situation. Third, wisdom is practicing what is right. Wisdom takes the knowing plus the understanding and turns it into doing what is right. As Paul continues his letter to the Ephesian church he address the practice of wisdom as it relates to the life of the believer. Paul challenges his audience to walk in wisdom (15-16). So how do we live a life that is noted for wisdom? Paul provides four pointers designed to help the believers in Ephesus and us today. First, wisdom is learned from God (17). Knowing God and His will for our life is the beginning of wisdom. Next, Paul points out that wisdom in the life of the believer is the result of God’s Spirit having control of the believer (18). What fills us is what controls. Is the Spirit of God in control of your life? Third, wisdom is spoken to others, but it comes from an attitude of joy that displays the spiritual foundation of our words (19-20). Finally, wisdom is lived relationally as we honor God by submitting to others (21). God will transform us by His power as we seek His ways and His wisdom. James 1:5 says that if we lack wisdom we should ask God for wisdom.

For More See EPHESIANS

Transformation: Can God Change Me?

3/31/2024

Luke 24
If you want to spark a conversation try asking this question… “What would you do if I gave you a million dollars?” The answers are as varied as people and their individual personalities. However, underlying the answer is a root belief that something will change because of this new reality. This gift has the ability to remove concerns and worries. It changes ones perspective. The same is true of Easter. In Luke 24 the followers of Jesus were confronted with the resurrection of Jesus and that changed everything. The disciples who first saw the empty tomb (1-12) were confronted with God’s reality and the choice to believe that Jesus is alive. The troubled men walking on the road were presented the open Scriptures (13-27). The searching of the scriptures changed their perspective. The death of Jesus was necessary for true change to be offered and salvation to be a reality. Jesus opened the eyes of these men to see (28-32) that he died and returned to life. The reality that Jesus is alive and that he accomplished salvation moved these men to excitedly tell others of this new reality (33-36). Not only did they hear about Jesus being alive, they believed because they saw him. They were filled with joy and that changed their communication with others. For us today, it is easy to talk about what brings us joy. However, the joy of these disciples moved them to tell others who doubted about Jesus. The opening of our mouth as a witness naturally occurs because of our joy in Jesus. The resurrection of Jesus should challenge our doubts; change our beliefs about salvation; our understanding of God’s word; and our communication about Him. Jesus is alive and our belief in Him changes everything.

For more see LUKE or EASTER

Song of Celebration

12/24/2023

Luke 2:29-32
Puzzle games, you know the ones… they are intriguing wood or wire shapes that are intertwined as one and yet can be taken apart and reassembled. You have probably seen them or perhaps bought them for the inquisitive minds in your family. I remember one Christmas as a kid sitting on the floor after being given a set of heavy wire ones, and eventually figuring them out. It took quite a while, but when I solved the puzzle, I remember thinking, “Wow, so that is how it is done.” Fast forward a number of years and I was given a small wood block with only one hole in it. Inside, apparently, there were several passage ways for a small ball to roll. The goal is simple, just remove the ball from the hidden maze using nothing but your sense of sound and imagination of where the ball is rolling. Again, after a bit of time, I was able to solve it. I remember thinking, “Wow, so that is how it is done.” In a similar way in Luke 2 we see a similar unsolved puzzle. This puzzle is different as it does not require human effort to solve, only careful observation of God’s action. We pick up the story of an old man named Simeon in verse 25 where he is described as a faithful godly man. He had been promised that he would not die until he had seen the savior that God had promised (26). Simeon had been looking, but the savior had not been revealed to him until Joseph and Mary walked into the temple with the baby Jesus (27). When Simeon sees Jesus he bursts forth in a song of celebration (29-32) for God’s faithfulness and His perfect plan of salvation. It is almost as if he says, “Wow, so that it how it is done.” Like Simeon, we can have the same response as we see that Jesus is the promised savior and believe that He is our savior.

For more see LUKE or SONGS OF CHRISTMAS or SALVATION

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

I Can Do All Things

11/6/2022

Philippians 4:10-13
This week a friend of mine sent me some pictures of my favorite car, a Ford Mustang. I don’t know why, but I have always liked that car. I can clearly remember the first time I saw one when I was about 6 years old. The car in the pictures was a much newer model, yet it still had some of the classic body lines and contours that reminded me of the much earlier version. We discussed, in jest, how I could convince my wife and possibly trade my current vehicle for this one. However, in the end I decided to be content with the car that I have because it is a gift from God, but that is for another story. You see things may make us content for a little bit, but if my contentment is wrapped up in things have I not lost my commitment to God? We can have all the material possessions of this world and lack peace in our circumstances. If we lack a contentment in what God has provided, and a commitment to Christ, we are spiritually lost. Christ provides all that we need for today and eternity. His powerful work of grace on the cross provides new life, new power and new perspective for all of life’s circumstances. If we do not have Christ we have nothing. We do not have His power for living and His joy that sustains. We need a commitment to Christ and a contentment with His provision to have peace in our circumstances. That is the message of Philippians 4:13 which states, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” We need joy in the Lord not our circumstance. We need joy for how God is working in others through our circumstance. We need contentment with what God has provided in the circumstance, and a commitment to God in all of our circumstances.

For more see PHILIPPIANS or MISAPPLIED SCRIPTURE VERSES

Vision From God's Word

10/30/2022

Proverbs 29:18
Normal vision goes by a measurement of 20/20. As we age and have genetic or other health issues our eyesight will become weaker. We begin to notice this by not being able to see clearly up close or have difficulty seeing far away. We may be able to tolerate this for a bit, but eventually we will need to see an eye doctor who will measure what it will take for our eyes to be corrected back to normal 20/20 vision. The eye doctor will give a prescription, and when we walk out of the doctor’s office with new glasses everything looks brighter because we can see clearly. Proverbs 29:18 talks about vision, but often it is misunderstood and misapplied. Often this verse is used to teach organizational leadership and the development of personal goals and dreams. However, vision in this verse has to do with the communication of God’s message. The prophets would receive a message from God and then they would communicate that to the people. Without God’s word to direct their lives they would lack divine direction. The writer of Proverbs leaves a challenge to his audience that includes us today. We need to practice or keep God’s word in order to experience His blessing. We need to spend time with God in His word enjoying His presence and greatness. As God speaks to us through His word we need to respond and allow His truths to transform our life. By continually placing God’s word to use in our daily life we will experience true joy in walking with Him. God has a vision for our life and our world. His desire is to communicate that to us, transform us by His grace and use us to carry that message of grace, and hope found only through Jesus to our world so they too can see clearly.

For more see PROVERBS or MISAPPLIED SCRIPTURE VERSES

Why Are You Angry?

4/17/2022

Jonah 4:9-11
A while ago I found a five dollar bill after the snow started to melt. It was soaking wet and dirty. I had never found any thing larger than a quarter until that day. My regular finds were made up of simple pocket change. Did I really want it? How much is a dirty and soaking wet five dollar bill worth? It is still worth five dollars. I realized the value of my find, cleaned off some of the mud and brought it home. After it had dried I was able to take it to the store, spend it, and no one knew that it was unpresentable just a few days ago. Are we thankful that God does not treat us as our dirty sinful lives deserve? The book of Jonah displays a contrast between God’s response to the sinful city of Nineveh and Jonah’s response. God’s perspective of Nineveh’s sin caused the people to respond and turn from their sin (3:9). God in turn relented from bringing judgment on them (3:10). However, Jonah was angry at God’s gracious response (4:1-2). Jonah angrily wanted calamity on the sinful, but God displayed compassion (4:11). God’s grace made the difference for the sinful people of Nineveh. Out of his holiness, God would have been justified to display his anger in judgment on their sin. Jonah had no such foundation to provide righteous judgment. He acted in anger because he did not get to see sinners punished. God responded in grace and gave sinners life. God saw through the dirt of sin in their life and had compassion on Nineveh just as he does with us. That is why we celebrate Easter because God’s grace has overcome our sin. Because of God’s grace displayed through Jesus we can now have life, hope and peace and not God’s judgment. That is good news of great joy!

For more see QUESTIONS FROM GOD

Wisemen: Worship the God of Grace

12/26/2021

Matthew 2:1-18
Giggles and wiggles… that is the best way to describe grandchildren. The birth of children is a special time for any family, but even more exciting for grandparents. Placed side by side or seeing a picture you will notice that the main similarity between grandparents and the new baby is wrinkles! Grandchildren bring new life and hope for the family to be lived out through this little one. There is a special bond between grandparents and grandchildren often because the stress and pressures of living life are removed. There is an understanding of grace, in that they have done nothing to gain this bond, and yet they get to enjoy the peace and wonder of the relationship. In Matthew 2 we see the Magi come and visit the new born King. These men were not from the nation of Israel yet God, in His grace, displayed a star for them to follow. This sign that they knew and understood led them to the new born King. They did not belong, yet they were invited by God and led by the star to Jesus. Their only desire was to see the King and worship this baby as King. As they worshiped the new born King others ignored Him or worse yet plotted to destroy Him. This Christmas we have a choice in how we worship Jesus, our King and Savior. I hope that we approach Him with wonder, and with joy sit enthralled in His presence, truly honoring Him as the King sent by God to save us. I hope that we clearly understand that the God of the universe sent His one and only Son to not only dwell with us but also to be our Savior. May we like the wisemen seek Him and worship by thanking Him for His gift of grace to us.

For more see CHRISTMAS

Shepherds: Amazed by Grace

12/12/2021

Luke 2:8-20
In the good old days I spent time listening to my grandfather tell stories about what life was like when he was young. There were stories of farming, fishing and fixing old cars. My favorite is the one about clearing snow. Grandpa lived in a small town that did not have a snow plow. Every time it snowed all the young men in town would gather at the end of the main street. The person in the center would take a shovel of snow and throw it one way. Then others would follow on each side and throw a shovel full of snow toward the edge. As a whole group they gradually formed a “V” and cleaned the road from the center out. Then the next morning all the old cars could travel without getting stuck. For us the good old days are filled with stories for younger generations and memories of better days gone by. However, therein lies a problem. The past is often deceptive because we only remember certain things and grumble about the happenings today. In Luke 2:8-12 the angel presents the message to the shepherds that is good news of great joy… your Savior has been born. This is a message of hope and joy that God has come. Yet often, even today, we look with gloom at the events in our community and the problems in our world while we tell others that they need to change. The message to the shepherds is that Christ has come to save. This is a message of joy that the problems of this life will find their only solution in Jesus. This is a message of hope that we can live a new life of victory through the salvation offered only through Jesus. May our message this Christmas not be about what is wrong, but about the hope and joy that we have in Jesus.

For more see CHRISTMAS

The Life of the Believer

10/31/2021

Galatians 5:22-23
Lately I have been trying to paint two unfinished exterior walls of my house. If painting was all that I had to do, the job would be done in a day or two. However, there are other things that require my time and attention. Because other situations arise and normal responsibilities take longer than expected the painting project takes more time to complete. Currently, I am nearing the end of the painting project. All that I need to do is one more coat of white paint on the trim and then some touch ups where I slopped trim paint on the blue wall. It is interesting, when you stand on the street and look at the house you can’t see the small unfinished areas or the spots that need touching up. But the closer you get the more the flaws and the unfinished painting stand out. In Galatians 5:22-23 we see that God works in the life of the believer to produce certain specific character qualities described as fruit. These fruits are the results of spiritual growth and maturity that become more and more common in our lives. Just as my house could not paint itself so we can’t produce these spiritual results in our lives without the work of God’s Spirit. God’s work, like my painting job, will take time. For example, we are not instantly loving or continually filled with joy, but God is continually at work shaping our character to become more complete. So, as you consider these Christ like character qualities stop and ask, Which one do I need right now? Ask God to develop this area of your life. God will pick up His paint brush called grace and continue His process of making you a better reflection of Himself to our world.

For more see MATTHEW 28:19-20 or WHAT IS A DISCIPLE?

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

Responsible Action of Faith Based Hope & Love

3/7/2021

1 Thessalonians 5:12-22
How thankful are you? If we think of Thanksgiving we often view it as a time to give thanks for what God has provided. For most of us, most of the time, we are thankful for all the good things in life. We are thankful for the inventions that make life easier, for family, health and food plus many other nice things, but, what about the bad events, the loss of dreams, health or family? 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to be thankful in all things. True thankfulness finds its satisfaction in the fact that God knows everything and that God will work His perfect will based on His perfect love. A perfect example of this is the death of Jesus to pay for sin. The darkness of His death brought the light of hope through the salvation that God now offered through Jesus. Let us live a life of hope in Christ regardless of circumstances. Let us be truly joyful, always praying and completely thankful. Our thanks will draw us to praise God and our prayer will cause us to see even more things to thank God for. So, let us give thanks in all things as 1 Thessalonians 5:18 states, because thankfulness shows acceptance of God’s will even if it is not understood. Our thanks is an expression of faith and hope in God, regardless of the situation that we face.

For more see also 1 Thessalonians

Thanks for Everything

6/29/2020

Philippians 1:1-11
Thanksgiving is a once a year event. We have a big meal and sit around the table eating way to much food and being thankful for those that are with us. But have you ever noticed how a thankful attitude changes the perspective of your day? Try going about your day and express thanks to each person that you interact with. For example, when you go into the grocery store thank the checkout person. When you go to the bank let the teller know that you appreciate their helpfulness. At the end of the day you will have an extensive list of people that you have given encouragement to through your thankfulness for them. Now, reflect on how that thankfulness has made an impact on your life and those with whom you interacted. In the book of Philippians Paul writes a very encouraging letter that starts with his thankfulness for the readers. He is ultimately thankful for God’s work in them and through them. Paul used his words of thanks to set the tone for this letter that would guide his readers in living a life for Christ that is filled with joy. Thanks is the natural outcome of a life filled with joy. Like Paul the thanks flowing from our lives should not be limited to a once a year holiday celebration. Our thanks should be a daily expression of our joy that is based in Christ.

My Strength and My Song

5/6/2020

Exodus 15:1-7
I would like to introduce you to a friend of mine. His name is Horatio. He was a businessman in the Chicago area in the late 1800’s. However, there are three great tragedies that entered his life. The death of his young son, the Chicago fire of 1871 which destroyed his business and financial investments, and finally the death of his four young daughters. Several years after the fire he decided to go to Europe with his family but at the last minute he changed his mind and sent the family on ahead by boat while he dealt with some business affairs. During the ocean crossing there was a collision with another ship and for Horatio only his wife survived. In full disclosure, I have not actually met him but I appreciate the depth of his life that he has communicated. You see several weeks later as he traveled on the same ocean route and neared the spot where his four daughters died he wrote the words to a song that you should know. His name is Horatio Spafford and the title of the song is “It is Well With My Soul.” I would encourage you to find the song and review the words in light of Horatio’s story. He was a man of faith who had lost much in this life yet he confidently stated that all was well with his soul. He could agree with Moses and the people in Exodus 15:2 that the LORD is my strength and song and the LORD has become my salvation. Try finding a verse of scripture or good song like this one and let it continually roll through your mind today. Allow God to use the words to draw your thoughts to Him as the source of our salvation, hope and joy.

How far does oatmeal fly?

4/14/2020

Psalm 28
Have you ever had one of those mornings… I crawled out of bed and made my way to the kitchen for breakfast where nothing sounded overly appealing. To sooth and unenthused appetite I settled on a bowl of oatmeal. Simple enough…that is what you may think. I managed to locate the bowls in the cupboard and the oatmeal at the opposite end of the kitchen. So far so good as I scooped a half measured cup into the bowl. Then I moved to the sink to add water. Now you need to know that I have done this hundreds of times, but this time was different. As I added water the bowl slipped out of my hand and proceeded to empty its contents all over me and the counter. Now as you observe so far the contents are liquid thus the starchy mess did not stay on me but followed the gravitational pull toward the floor as it oozed over the edge of the counter and down the cabinet. That may be bad enough but the oatmeal fling is not over because somehow in process the bowl was not only dropped but spun. Now for the scientists in the audience there is a concept called centrifugal force where items that are spun get thrown outward from the center point. I hate science because I had oatmeal spread from one end of the kitchen to the other. As I stood there in my half asleep stupor I seriously contemplated going back to bed hoping that this would all go away by the time I got up tomorrow. Well after almost 30 minutes of cleaning and moping up sticky oatmeal with wet bath towels I had a load of wash to do. It was about that time that I decided that oatmeal is a very unhealthy breakfast item. I immediately changed the menu and made a waffle using pancake batter. I am so thankful that I can always find my strength and joy in the Lord as I trust Him each day (Psalm 28:7) and not in a bowl of oatmeal. Oh, you are still wondering how far does oatmeal fly? Sixteen feet… I measured.

Watching Water Boil.... Boring

3/31/2020

Colossians 1:9-12
There is an old saying, “A watched pot never boils.” It is attributed to Benjamin Franklin who recorded it in his writings between 1732 and 1758. He used this word picture to describe the feeling of being anxious while waiting for the slow process of change to be completed. The idea is pictured in filling a pot with water, placing it on the stove, then impatiently watching and waiting for the water temperature to change and boil. Paul prays for his audience that they would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. This is a prayer for the knowledge of God’s will to fill them so they would understand and make the right decisions by living out God’s daily direction for their lives. Paul is thankful for the changes that God bringing (11-12) while praying for their spiritual growth (10) and spiritual strength (11) in the process. Perhaps you are looking at your life and right now and are frustrated with the way things are going. Paul’s solution is applicable to us. He joyful gives thanks to God for bringing change and making it possible for us to be part of His family. We can easily become frustrated with the process of spiritual change in our lives. Pause and thank God that He is working at this very moment, it is just may be taking a bit to bring the water to a boil.