Category: Love - Jethro TOOLS

Cure for the Culture

1/25/2026

Philippians 1:9-11
When we think of a broken heart we often think of a love that is lost and the individual flounders searching for a personal emotional cure to a failed relationship. However, there is actually a health issue called broken heart syndrome. This heart problem is caused by some sudden stress that is placed upon the individual. This stress may come from a physical event like a car accident, an emotional event like grief or fear and even perhaps from consuming certain strong or spicy foods. The symptoms of broken heart syndrome are very much like a heart attack with chest pain and shortness of breath. However, broken heart syndrome is reversible within a few days or weeks because its cause is tied to the body and its production of a large amount of adrenaline. As we look at our world we see people with a spiritual heart issue. We see people living with a broken heart and not knowing the cure, and yet searching for one. As Paul says in Philippians chapter one there is a cure, and we as believers in Jesus Christ carry the cure. Paul is praying for the Philippian church that their love will thrive and multiply (19). This is an admission that they are a loving church, but also a petition asking God to step in and work in the life of this church even more. This love that the church has is a love that imitates God’s love in its sacrifice and service. This is not a romantic love or even a love between friends. God’s love is to be lived out by His followers because He has loved them first and therefore the church has the ability, capacity and example of how to love (1 John 4:19). We carry the cure of Christ and His forgiveness and love to a world full of people with a broken heart. God displays His cure for our culture through us as we love like Him.

For More See PHILIPPIANS

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

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

Spiritual Maturity

10/26/2025

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
All grown up. That is a phrase used by grandparents to describe grandchildren who have surpassed them in height, but are they mature? Two years ago I planted several cranberry bushes in the yard. With much water and some fertilizer they are now taller than I am. Are they all grown up? Are they mature cranberry plants? Not yet, they still have to produce cranberries. Even though the plants have flourished and look healthy they have not produced the fruit that marks them as mature. The same is true regarding spiritual maturity. Our spiritual age and general spiritual health make it clear that we are getting enough to eat spiritually. However, if we are only measured by what we take in we still have some growing up to do. In 1 Thessalonians 1, Paul commends a group of believers for their spiritual growth and the maturity of their faith, love and hope (3). The work of faith in their lives, by God, looks to the past and guides their present living (4-5). Their labor of love matures them through their personal practice and witness of their faith under pressure (6-9). Their hope remains steadfast and matures through the confident expectation of God’s future regardless of the present reality (10). These believers had a faith in God that changed them. They possessed a love that caused them to serve as active witnesses while possessing a hope in Christ that was exercised under pressure. That is a growing and maturing spiritual life. They did not allow their circumstances to limit their growth. Instead they allowed their hope and faith to direct their life to be lived as a loving witness for Jesus in all circumstances. The problem is that often we allow our circumstances to limit our spiritual growth. We look at the size of the problem rather than the greatness of our God. Ask God to mature your faith, love and hope through your circumstances.

For More See 1 THESSALONIANS

Membership Standard

8/17/2025

1 Corinthians 13
“I don’t like my job!” Have you ever said that. There is part of every job that is unpleasant. Most jobs are tolerable, some are terrible, while many jobs are terrific. Yet within every job there is often one component that is unpleasant and therefore we often avoid doing it. Simply avoiding the task does not remove our responsibility to complete it and therefore complete our job. The same is true when it comes to living the christian life. The church of Corinth was having a problem exercising genuine faith, love and service to God. As a whole they had distorted their relationship with Christ and turned it into a practice of self centered love. In essence they had turned their relationship with Jesus Christ into a self centered religious practice. In 1 Corinthians 13 Paul challenges their distorted spiritual practice by addressing love as the central standard measurement for believers in Jesus Christ. This passage highlights what is wrong in the Corinthians spiritual practice (1-3), and what is actually the display of true love (4-7). The distinguishing characteristic of love within the believer is progress in Christlike maturity (8-12). We are immature and can never measure up to Christ’s standard of love, but there is progress over the course of our spiritual life. We are called to be followers of Christ and follow His example (1 Peter 1:13-16). Love is to be the substance of our actions because Christ loved us first (1 John 1:19). This passage is simple, yet so deep and confronting. If we are honest it is difficult to love and be loving. Yet, our belief in Christ the Savior who loves us changes us and connects us with His body the church so we can become people who serve with His love. Christ and His display of love for us is the standard measurement for our love and service. That is a hard job, but one that is attainable through His grace and strength.

For More See 1 CORINTHIANS

The Disciple's Passion

2/9/2025

Matthew 22:34-40
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. With that, our thoughts are drawn to what we love, who we love, and how we might show that love. Love is the root of a passionate expression. We can say that we love ice cream, sports, coffee or someone, but there is always an expression of that love. In its simplest form passion is doing what we love and loving what we do. Being a person of passion is expressing the strong excited response that is based on the deeper sense of love. If there is not a connection that attracts then there will not be the action based on the attraction. The Bible lays out God’s passionate connection for all humanity in John 3:16. God loved the world so much that He gave Jesus, His only Son, to be our savior from sin. Love is the motivation for the extreme action of God’s passion. The passion displayed in the action proves the reality of the love. In Matthew 22 Jesus was asked to identify the greatest command in the law (36). In response He says, love God and people (37-39). Jesus came and displayed God’s love to us so we can display His love to others. The good news of God’s love drove His passionate display of love. Our display of love for others is to be based on our understanding and acceptance of God’s love passionately displayed for all the world to see. That is life changing love, the kind of love that God wants His committed followers to display to others. On our own we do not have the capability to accurately display God’s love. Yet, as disciples of Jesus, we are graciously given the ability to love because we have experienced God’s love (1 John 4:19). Are we actively displaying our love for God and others as God has loved us?

For More See MATTHEW or 1 JOHN or DISCIPLESHIP

God's Priorities

9/8/2024

1 Timothy 2:1-15
Priorities, we all have them and live by them. This summer I have had a front row seat to priorities being played out in my garden. This is the first year for the garden and the plants were off to a late start because of cool rainy weather and not getting seeds in the ground sooner. Well, all that has turned around with a little fertilizer, water and lots of sunshine. We now have terrific tomatoes, lovely lettuce, bountiful beans, perfect peas and supersize sunflowers. Yes, I said that correctly… SUPERSIZE! To be exact they are all over ten feet tall and one is sixteen and a half feet tall with over 24 decorative blooms reaching toward the sky. That sunflower has had one priority, growing as large as it could in order to display God’s grand design and order. In 1 Timothy 2 Paul guides Timothy to give specific instructions that will challenge and change the church. First, Timothy is to challenge the men to be holy and prayerful not argumentative (1-8). Secondly, Timothy is to challenge the women to a life of holy service that honors God (9-15). In this chapter, Paul makes general observations about humanity that are still true today. Men seek to draw attention to themselves through their arguments & conquest. Women seek to draw attention to themselves through their adornment & clothing. As believers in Jesus Christ we are to pursue Christ and by His strength model our lives after His perfect example. Today, it is so easy to seek out opportunities to promote ourselves and supersize our lives. Men and women, we have all been called to live holy lives turning away from our self centered tendencies, desires and self promotion. By faith we are called to lives that display our Savior’s grace, sacrifice, love and service. May God transform us and grant us the strength to graciously prioritize being winsome and holy imitators of Him.

For More See 1 TIMOTHY

What do others say about us?

6/16/2024

Ephesians 6:21-24
Over the years people have sought to memorialize themselves or others through witty phrases etched on their tombstone. One of those sayings that has been used by several is, “I told you I was sick.” What would you think if you saw that on a tombstone? You might think the person had a sense of humor, or perhaps someone else was doing their best to describe this character. When a person passes away it is a serious time for remembrance and reflection. This should cause us to pause, with some sober thought, and ask “What will others say of us when we are gone?” I believe that question is the challenge behind the closing verses in the book Ephesians. In closing out this letter Paul begins his conclusion to Ephesians 6 by describing a faithful brother, Tychicus (21-22). This man was noted as a dear brother and faithful servant. One who is deeply appreciated and loved as a brother, and one who dutifully and consistently meets the needs of others through his service. Tychicus was the one who carried this letter to the church and Paul used him as an illustration of unity and service in the body of Christ. This beloved servant of the church had been changed through his belief in Jesus as savior and sought to continue to show his love for his savior through his dedicated service. In our world today, the temptation is to make our efforts about ourselves and for our benefit. Paul noted just the opposite about Tychicus. His faith in Jesus transformed his life and his love for others. Tychicus served because the grace of God, and Jesus as his savior made all the difference in his life. Just like Tychicus, may others remember our love and service for our savior.

For more see EPHESIANS

Walk of Love and Light

5/5/2024

Ephesians 5:1-14
There is an old saying that states, “A fake is a cheap imitation of the real thing.” Allow me to add to that… A fake is a cheap imitation of the real thing that looks good on the outside, but on the inside it lacks substance. In other words, I could illustrate that concept with a piece of jewelry. A real piece of jewelry will be made with gold or silver through and through. However you can get an imitation jewelry set for children that is not authentic. It may have the shine on the outside but it is lightweight and made of plastic. As we continue in our study of Ephesians, Paul also continues his practical emphasis of the how the believer is to live that he began in chapter 4. As we turn the page to chapter 5, Paul challenges his audience to be imitators of God (1). He first explains that the one who believes in Jesus as savior is to walk or imitate a life of sacrificial love as modeled by Jesus (2). However, people have a tendency to twist and corrupt what God designs as good. Paul warns the Ephesian church against the self centered, sinful perversion of love, and following falsehood instead of God (3-6). Paul then shifts his thinking to talk about living or walking as children of light (7-8). We imitate God by participating in what is spiritually healthy and fruitful, and not the deeds of sin (11). Paul is trying to tell his audience that they need to allow the reality of their salvation to seen by those around them (11-13). Just as a flashlight has no power on its own apart from the battery, so those who believe in Jesus are to utilize His power to live. In doing so, we let His light shine through us, to guide others to Him, as the true source of real life change.

For more see EPHESIANS

Christmas & Invitation

12/11/2022

John 3:16
What do you do with that unwanted gift that you will never use? The best option is to return it to the store and exchange it for some item you really want. The exact numbers of post Christmas returns are not in for this year, but based on previous years, retailers expect about 55 percent of shoppers to exchange or return an unwanted gift. What is the problem? Why so many returns? The issue is the giver and the ability to fully know the one receiving the gift. With all the returns some stores turn to post holiday sales to move the unwanted merchandise. But have you thought about the time when the giver got the perfect gift for everyone? God did just that at Christmas. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” God is the perfect giver who gives with a purpose to display His love to a world full of people that have no idea what real love is. God gave His one and only Son at Christmas as a personal gift for every one. This gift and His sacrifice in our place for our sin provides new life now and eternal life for the rest of time for all who believe in Jesus. The gift is given freely by God with the all the benefits of life and not death. The only requirement is belief in Jesus as the Son of God who has come to save us from our sin. Do you believe that Jesus is God’s gift for you? When we understand the greatness of this gift we not only treasure it but also tell others about it. It is the gift that we can continually give away and never lose. It is the best gift that we will never return.

For more see JOHN or SYMBOLS OF CHRISTMAS

Do You Love Me?

4/24/2022

John 21:15-19
For about two weeks we have had a stray dog wandering through our neighborhood. It seems most likely that he has been dropped off and abandoned by his previous owner. In researching his breed it seems like he is deeply loyal to one owner and is very aloof or distant from strangers. That is why it is so hard to get close to him to even toss him some food. If you think about it from the dog’s perspective, he was abandoned by the one that he loved and now he is running from those who want to catch him and show him love. Love is an interesting subject. We need it and want it and yet we often run from it. In John 21 Jesus has a deeply intimate and yet public conversation with Peter who had previously denied Him publicly three times. In verses 15-19 Jesus questions Peter three times about his love. In these verses Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” Each time Peter responds affirming that in fact he does love Jesus. The central point of these questions from God is to get Peter to make that affirmation. Each time Peter reaffirms his love for Jesus he is given a job to serve and display God’s love to others. Jesus was not about to discard Peter because of his failure. Instead, Jesus sought to restore and reconcile Peter to a life of intentional service for God’s church. Today, like Peter, following Jesus is based on Christ’s call and not on how we feel. We may feel very unworthy and undeserving, yet Jesus calls us to follow Him. Our service for God must be based on our love for Him. Loving actions without the compassion and grace of Jesus as our foundation lack depth and a connection with Jesus. Just like Peter we can hear Jesus ask us, “Do you love me?”

For more see QUESTIONS FROM GOD

Lost Love

2/20/2022

Revelation 2:1-7
Have you ever seen puppy love? It is often said that the first stage of human love is puppy love. So, what is puppy love? Think about it. You are asked by a friend if you want one of the puppies that their dog just recently gave birth to. As you look at the wriggling litter of fuzzy cuteness one puppy catches your eye. You pick up the little bundle to get a better look and then lose all control as the puppy wags its tail and licks your face. Your first love may be called puppy love because of the human attraction and bond of that attraction without the wagging of tails. But what about our spiritual first love? In Revelation 2:1-7 the church of Ephesus is commended for the way that they have stood for the truth of God’s word (2-3). They have worked hard and know the truth, but Jesus Christ points out that that they have left their first love (4). Literally they have looked at the face of Jesus, the one that loves them, and they have consciously walked away. They are given the command to remember what they have left, repent and turn around and return to loving the one that loves them (5-6). Losing the excitement of our first love is human but it should not be true of our spiritual lives. This church was doing all the right things because they knew all the right answers, but they had lost their passion for Jesus who loves them. You may have known Christ for years, sat through hundreds of church services and heard all the Bible stories. You just don’t feel in love anymore. We need to have a true devotion for God, not just go through the motions for God. If that is true of you remember Jesus has not turned away, you have.

For more see REVELATION

Responding to a World that Lacks Love

2/13/2022

Psalm 94
At one time in life we lived in a warmer climate where there were an abundance of gecko lizards. At night these little guys would crawl across the outside of our windows seeking to snatch a tasty bug as a midnight snack. In the process of moving south we brought with us the two family cats. These two were hunters, and previously they kept our home and the area around the house free from mice. Now the cats had a new prey, gecko lizards. However, God has designed these lizards so it is possible for them to detach their tail in order to escape a predator. Well, like all cats, our two would often play with the critters they caught. On several occasions I watched as the cat wrestled with the new found catch only to realize that the lizard deployed a defense mechanism and they had nothing but a wiggly tail. The cat had a quizzical look on its face as it looked for the lizard without success. Like the cat we can chase after the things that we think are real only to find that they will never satisfy. Psalm 94 records a message highlighting the importance of where we turn for our security and love in the midst of a selfish, violent world that does not show love. What do we do when we are not loved? The Psalmist challenges us to pray (1-7) and seek God’s righteous solution. We can be assured that God knows our situation (8-11). He will never leave us (14) and He will protect us (17). Our response to the troubling influence of evil in our world is to be completely persuaded that God alone is always faithful (18). We should continually speak of God’s truth, greatness and love. Like the cat we must not pursue other lesser things that distract us from God.

For more see PSALMS

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?

Helpful Hope-filled Hospitality

5/30/2021

Philemon 21-22
My stomach was warmed by the meal and my heart was full from the conversation about our Lord and Savior. Snow crunched under my feet as I said goodbye, and the snowmobile rumbled to life as I headed into the middle of winter and the middle of the river that was frozen solid. There was nothing between where I was and home but an hour ride, and a red fox. I excitedly tried to follow the beautiful creature but he did not want my company and headed for the thick brush of an island. What a day! I had the privilege of enjoying good food, wonderful insight into a brother’s spiritual growth plus sighting one of God’s beautiful four legged creatures. It all started with my unannounced visit to a brother in the Lord and his offering of hospitality. In Philemon 21-22 we see Paul encourage Philemon to practice hospitality. Paul starts by affirming Philemon (21). He confidently believes that what has been requested will be done based on Philemon’s prior conduct as a partner and character as a brother in Christ. Philemon has been praying for Paul. As an answer to this prayer, Paul believes that he will be released from prison soon. Upon his release Paul desires to visit and stay with Philemon (22). Paul is encouraging hospitality toward all believers, including Onesimus, by providing spiritual accountability for the action of hospitality. At its core, hospitality shows Christ like love and acceptance. May our faith in Christ season our hospitality and our hospitality warm the hearts of others.

For more see PHILEMON

The Cost & Value of Returns

5/2/2021

Philemon 8-11
Have you ever returned an item you had purchased? I have seen people return perfectly good tools for a full refund, after they were used once, because they were no longer needed. It has been estimated that retail businesses world wide lose 600 billion dollars to returns with retail sales in North America making up almost 1/3 of the total amount lost. The numbers are astounding but we should not be surprised because that is a human reaction. When something no longer serves our purpose we seek to remove it in a way that will benefit us. That is exactly what Paul is trying to avoid as he writes Philemon about Onesimus, his run away slave. As the owner, Philemon had a number of options in dealing with Onesimus, including death. Paul makes his appeal for Onesimus who is a new person through his belief in Christ as savior (10) which results in a new relationship and value for this slave (11). Paul could have forced Philemon to do what he wanted (8). Instead, he made his appeal to Philemon that he base his reaction to Onesimus on the love of God (9). Today we face many relational challenges where our world tells us that we have the right to respond a certain way. The question is, how would God want you to respond? God is calling us to find the value in others because He loved us first (1 John 4:19).

For more see PHILEMON

Six Steps to Develop Loyalty to God

4/28/2021

Psalm 119:113-120
Loyal Devotion to God and the Word

Six Steps to Develop Loyalty to God
1. Priorities are Made Clear (113)
   When you love the word of God you will be loyal to God alone

2. Security is Made Certain (114)
   When you love the word of God you will find God to be your defense

3. Temptations are Confronted (115)
   When you love the word of God you will find that evil loses its appeal

4. Confidence is Practiced (116-117)
   When you love the word of God you will find God to be your deliverer

5. Wisdom is Made Known (118-119)
   When you love the word of God you will become discerning through its teaching

6. Obedience to God Alone (120)
   When you love the word of God you will know the God of His word

For more see PSALM 119

Problems? Try Refreshing

4/25/2021

Philemon 4-7
Computers are great but they can run into communication and connection problems which causes you not to see everything that is available. That is when the refresh option comes into play. This simple feature takes all of the old information and requests new information. After a few moments the newest version of the information is sent and you can now access all the fresh, new items. The refresh option takes the old, adds a new perspective and gives it new life. In the letter to Philemon we see Paul record a prayer that he is praying for Philemon (4-7). In that prayer Paul notes that he is encouraged to see Philemon displaying Godly love for other believers (7). Philemon has been influential in refreshing others. He literally helped calm their inner emotions. Have you ever had someone step into your life and give you a new perspective that calmed your fears? Apparently Philemon was one who started with the current problems and helped others see their problems from God’s point of view with God’s solutions. His faith (5) naturally caused him to display God’s love and refresh others through God’s love with hope and a new Godly perspective. May God help us be ones who refresh those around us, just like Philemon.

For more see PHILEMON

Prayer - When is enough?

4/11/2021

Ephesians 3:14-21
“Tell me when is enough?” At times we use this phrase to tell someone to stop. I remember times filling my brothers water glass that he was holding and saying, “Tell me when.” As the glass filled and neared the top he would say, “Stop” or “That’s enough.” However, I kept pouring because he did not use the word “when.” My brother would begin to panic and yell louder to stop, but I calmly kept pouring. Finally he would remember and holler “WHEN!” We would laugh and watch as he had to clean up the mess. To be partially full or totally full is one thing, but to be completely filled and overflowing is totally different. In Ephesians 3:19 Paul prays for the church to “be filled up to all the fullness of God.” This complete overflowing fullness is the result of a strong inner faith in God (16-17) and a deep growing understanding of Christ’s love (17-18). Like the Ephesian church we can only experience the fullness of a relationship with God when we believe God by faith and know that we are completely loved by Jesus Christ. God is pouring out His love into your life through Jesus Christ. Don’t tell Him to stop. Instead let Him full you to overflowing.

For more see EPHESIANS

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

Christ's Return - Living by Faith, Love & Hope

2/28/2021

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
The sweetness of future hope was recently made very clear to me. You see my wife is the queen of the kitchen, especially with cinnamon rolls. Earlier, I walked into the kitchen and saw the that cinnamon roll dough was being made. I asked, and she confirmed that the process was in place. For the rest of the day I lived by faith believing that the reward of cinnamon rolls was coming. Well, the dough rose and was then placed in the oven. I could smell the ending and anticipated my soon delight. My wife, in love, then served me a fresh cinnamon roll. What wonder! What delight! This was the fulfillment of my anxious heart, yet I had to live all day as I expectantly waited for the fulfillment of eating cinnamon rolls. In a way, this is what Paul is addressing in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. The church knew all about the return of the Lord yet they had not applied this information to their lives (1-3). They had the practice of looking for the return of Christ, but they needed to live a life of faith and love while they waited in hope (4-8). Paul reminds them that the destiny of those who believe in Jesus as savior is not to face the judgment and wrath of God. The believer will be delivered from God’s judgment through salvation offered in Christ (9-11). Like the Thessalonian church we too must live our faith in Christ and practice love that God has shown us as we wait expectantly for Christ’s return. What wonder! What delight! Now, if you will excuse me, I need to get another cinnamon roll before supper.

For more see 1 Thessalonians

Distractions from Faith, Love & Hope

2/21/2021

1 Thessalonians 4
How do birds fight? Some birds apparently fight by making as much noise as possible. The other day I heard a flock of crows squawking in the trees. When the racket did not subside I decided to investigate what was disturbing them, and the neighborhood. Upon review, I counted six crows hollering about another critter in the tree. I could not see the reason that they were upset, but it was more than likely a hawk. Crows are territorial and very protective and they realize that the hawk is a predator. Eventually the racket stopped because the hawk decided it had enough noise and harassment for one day and left. In many ways we as people can be distracted from what God has for us by the noise of our society. In 1 Thessalonians 4, Paul instructs this new church to display the purity of their faith by living a holy life that is not preoccupied with sinful lusts (1-8). Next, he encourages them to love others instead of being preoccupied with personal influence (9-12). Finally, Paul encourages the church to have the perspective of hope in contrast to misguided fears about the future and grief over believers who have died (13-18). To avoid the raucous distractions of our world we would do well to heed this teaching on the purity of faith, the practice of love and the perspective of hope.

For more see 1 Thessalonians

What is Love?

2/14/2021

1 Corinthians 13
Valentine’s Day is here again and yet again we ask the question, “What is love?” For this special day love is defined as deep affection for someone, but often we struggle figuring out how to express it. To the cynic, this is just another way to get people to spend money. For the romantic, this is the perfect chance to spend money. This is designed to be a holiday to celebrate our love for those closest to us. The difficulty is that often love is forgotten or not practiced the rest of the year. Love is more than just chocolate and roses one day each year. Love, as Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 13, is to be a constant trait in the life of the person who believes in Jesus Christ as Savior. True love is equipped by faith to live a life that is patient and kind by always believing that God is at work. True love is based on hope that God will work in such a way to make the relationship better in the future. The believer who obediently lives for God by always loving others, is following the example of Christ and His love for all mankind. What we really believe will affect the way we live.

For more see 1 Corinthians

Signs of Spiritual Maturity

2/7/2021

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
With the snow piling up I have noticed driveways that are not cleared and vehicles still covered in snow or stuck trying to drive through the uncleared snow. A car stuck in the driveway is of no use. The problem is that the owner chooses not to use the resources available to clear the driveway for the car. This may mean picking up a shovel or starting a snowblower. There are no shortcuts available. Clearing a driveway of snow requires attention and effort. In much the same way, becoming spiritually mature requires growth in spiritual knowledge, the effort of love and the continued practice of hope. In the first letter to the Thessalonians we see that Paul was able to present the gospel message to them, but then had to leave because of persecution. Paul begins writing this letter after hearing a good report about their spiritual growth. He notes their work of faith, their labor of love and their steadfast hope (1 Thessalonians 1:3). God started the work of faith as they understood the gospel message. The believers then put to use the spiritual resources that they now had and tied their spiritual service to a steadfast hope in Christ. Out of a love for others they spread the message of their faith and held fast to the hope that eternity with Christ is better than the present. There were no shortcuts to their maturity. Likewise our spiritual maturity is measured by our faith, love and hope.

See also 1 Thessalonians

Thankfulness and Faithfulness

11/22/2020

Psalm 107:1-9
As a child I fondly remember receiving birthday presents. As I unwrapped the gifts I became more excited as I realized how useful this gift was or how much fun I could have with this new toy. The problem was that my Mom kept a list of who the presents were from and I was expected to write a short thank you note to each of the people who gave me a gift. I dreaded doing this. I would often put it off as long as possible until my Mom made me sit down and write two or three sentences expressing my thanks. I believe that my parents saw the value of instilling in me, from an early age, the habit of thankfulness. When we are thankful for what we do have we appreciate the blessing of new gifts and the graciousness of the giver. In Psalm 107 the author gives an invitation to give thanks to the Lord. The reason to give thanks is found in God’s faithful display of His love for His people. This Psalm was written about the people of Israel returning to the land after God had punished their continual disobedience. They were wandering (4), in need of food and water (5) and discouraged or faint in their spirit (6). Are you wandering and in need of direction for life? Are you in need of daily provisions? Are you in need of encouragement to replace discouragement? The Lord is good and faithful in showing His unfailing love. Trust Him and praise Him. When we thank God for His past faithfulness we will be able to rest in the present because our faith sees a good, faithful and loving God at work.

For more see Thankfulness