Category: Matthew - Jethro TOOLS

Resting in God

11/26/2025

Psalm 92
What is rest? Often when we think of rest we think a day off work equals rest. In the musical world there is a musical symbol for rest that tells the musician to stop playing the instrument and be silent for a specific musical measurement of time. We also think of rest as taking a nap or sleeping longer, and hopefully waking up feeling rested, and not tired. On another level, the Bible speaks of a sabbath rest. We are to imitate God and His work at creation. As He worked for six days and then rested, we are to do the same. Biblical rest involves ceasing from work, but it also involves also involves a trust in God to supply. When we come to the place of realizing that our effort is not sufficient it is then that we can fully rest in God to abundantly supply. The author of Psalm 92 invites his audience to praise God. The praise of God is to be natural, but how does the praise of God lead us to rest in God? If you notice the heading in your Bible, this Psalm was written for the Sabbath day. What is to happen on the Sabbath day? This is the day that God’s people are to rest. In Psalm 92 the author exhorts his audience to praise God for His care and deliverance. Praise declares God’s greatness (1-4) and delights in Him and His work (10-15). When we rest in God, as described in the Bible, it is to be a time not only of ceasing work but also praising God for how He cares for us and delivers us each day. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says that He will give rest to those that come to Him. Have we ceased our work and come to Jesus for true refreshing rest? If that is true then we can truly praise Him as described in Psalm 92.

For More See PSALMS

Faith and Investing

7/20/2025

Matthew 25:14-30
It has been said that a dog is a great investment. If you have a dog you will gain eye and hand coordination from throwing a ball for the dog to chase. Your strength and balance will improve as you try and remain on your feet after your dog excitedly jumps on you. Finally, having a dog will increase your hand and arm strength as you try and wrestle a rope from your dog in a match of tug of war. Investing in a dog will save you money on gym memberships but you may need to see a chiropractor more often if you can get out the door before the dog jumps on you, wanting to play again. We can invest in many things, including a pet, but we need to think about investing in the most important things. In Matthew 25 Jesus tells a parable of three servants who were each given a large sum of money by their master. Two were driven by the importance of using the masters resources wisely and industriously set out to invest what they were given (16-18). Each of these two saw their investment double. However, the third man did nothing with what the master had given. The master returned and called his servants to account for what he had given them (19-30). The master praised the first two servants but punished the third. For those who believe in Jesus as savior, this is more than just a story about good versus evil servants. This parable emphasizes the importance of applying the word of God to our life. God has invested His power and grace in us through Christ’s work on the cross. In turn He desires that we reinvest what He has given us to grow His kingdom for His glory. The joy of being transformed by Christ leads to a joy of serving and investing in God’s kingdom building agenda.

For More See MATTHEW

Faith and Resting

7/13/2025

Matthew 11:28-30
Musicians and carpenters understand the importance of a rest. In woodworking, a lathe is used to turn rough timber into round cylindrical shapes, perhaps making table legs or bowls. A rest is a steady braced arm on the lathe that allows the carpenter to continue working by using the cutting knives from a position of safety and control. Like wise, musicians also utilize a rest within a piece of music. A musical rest is a symbol that indicates silence and its duration. The utilization of a musical rest helps create the structure, rhythm and the melodic flow of words within a song. A rest for a carpenter and a musician is important for them to continue in their work. A rest for us as people is important to redirect us and reframe our work. In Matthew 11 Jesus addresses the people who have rejected Him and His message (20-24). He then turns and calls to His audience to come to Him and find their rest in Him (28). This kind of rest is spiritual salvation in which God gives rest to the soul (29). This then changes the work focus of the believer from self to serving Christ (30). Rest is found in Christ in the midst of living life for Him and under His leading. Like a carpenter or a musician the disciple of Jesus finds rest in Him alone in the midst of life. It is through this rest that Christ directs His followers in His ways to create His works of beauty through them. For the believer in Jesus, rest is a spiritual process that believes Him and practices dependence on Him at all times. This rest for the soul, that is found in Christ, changes our eternal hope, our view of physical work, and even our perspective of finances. We can find true rest in Jesus, who not only saves us but promises to walk with us and guide us.

For More See MATTHEW

Faith and Giving

7/6/2025

Matthew 6:1-4
Road Construction Ahead… Now that summer is here we see those bright orange signs spring up like dandelions after a rain. Those highway signs warn us in advance about what lies down the road. If we disregard the sign and continue on our merry way we will wind up in some ditch with damage to our vehicle and have great difficulty explaining why we ignored the warning sign. In much the same way Jesus provides a warning to His audience, in Matthew 6, about what lies ahead and the practice of righteousness. He begins by highlighting the incorrect practice of righteousness in giving (2). Some people were drawing attention to themselves and their gift when they gave a tithe in the temple. The instruction of righteousness (3) follows the warning as Jesus points out how to give without drawing attention to ourselves as the giver. Righteous giving is rewarded by God who is righteous (4). To put it simply, we can either be rewarded by man or God. The reward of man is limited to earthly praise and recognition, but on the other hand the reward from God has lasting eternal value. Jesus desires for us, like His audience, to practice our giving as anonymously as possible. When we give this way we set aside the possibility of personal recognition here and now, and believe by faith that God offers a much better reward for a life of faithful righteousness. The righteous will live by faith (Habakkuk 2:4). Self centered giving seeks to gain something from giving. God’s desire is that we give with a pure motive from a pure heart that seeks to bring honor to Him alone through the gift. Jesus closes out Matthew 6 with a call to seek His kingdom and He will reward the practice of our faith (Matthew 6:33). A warning well heeded will lead to the road of righteousness.

For More See MATTHEW

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

The Disciple's Mission

1/19/2025

Matthew 4:18-22
As a boy, I had always enjoyed dogs, but never had a chance to have one. Perhaps we never had a dog because Mom and Dad had moved frequently. Eventually, when I was about ten, we settled into a home that I would consider home. Arriving home from school one fall day, I noticed a dog tied up in front of the house. It turns out that some friends needed to find a new home for their dog and my parents approved. Well, that began the process of getting to know the dog and trying to train the dog. There is an old saying, “You can’t teach old dogs new tricks.” That was definitely true of this character. He should have been a good candidate to pull a sled. He was broad and muscular, but he lacked the motivation. He would pull for a bit and only when he wanted to. When he realized I was on the sled the ride was over. I was on a mission to develop him into a sled pulling dog and he wanted nothing to do with my trick. My plans and dreams for him could never compare to his desire for his enjoyment fulfilled his way. You could say it was a training disaster. However, when it comes to reshaping our lives and retraining us God has a plan, but it takes our submission. In Matthew 4 Jesus calls Peter and Andrew to follow Him (18) and promises to make them into something different (19). Change is not easy because we become comfortable with our way. Like these disciples we are called to follow Jesus and allow Him to change us, reshape us and use us for His purposes and honor. Like my old dog; Are we willing to submit to our savior and His new direction for our life? When we do we will find that our life has an exciting new meaning and purpose.

Foe More See MATTHEW or DISCIPLESHIP

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

Politics and Misplaced Hope

11/10/2024

Recently we have just walked through an election, and survived. Elections are time consuming, trying, and tiresome. The difficulty is that in an election process we have a way of looking at our life and seeing all the things that need to be fixed. In our mind they are things that only a political candidate can fix. We just need to choose the correct one, support the correct one and vote for the correct one. In the process we elevate an individual and place our hope in a candidate as the answer to our problems. So what is the solution? First, we need to remember that all people are broken and do not measure up to God’s standard (Romans 3:23). Second, we need to realign our hope. It is easy to trust in the things of power in this life. However, the psalmist David writes that some may trust in military powers, “but we trust in the name of the LORD our God” (Psalm 20:7). Third, we need a consistent message of real hope. If we are a believer in Jesus Christ as our savior, He is to be the source of our hope, and He is to be the source of hope that we declare to others. The winds of cultural change and the ebb and flow of political tides will cause insecurity, questions and even hopelessness. Jesus tells us in Matthew 7:24-27 that when we build our life on Him and His word we will have a secure foundation. There are many people who have incorrectly placed their hope in politics, ideologies, and the things of this life. Our message must not be one of political hope, but of hope in Jesus. Will we be the ones who faithfully carry the message of hope in Christ to those who have built their hope on the wrong foundation?

For More See DANIEL

Participate in Service

8/4/2024

Matthew 20:20-28
Have you ever been to a restaurant where the service was poor? One time, we as a family stopped at what appeared to be a good restaurant. We walked in, found a seat and waited, and then waited some more. Our stomachs began to growl. The kids began getting restless and started to complain. If my memory serves me correctly, we were there about 40 minutes and not a single waiter stopped at our table. Needless to say we eventually got up and walked out because the service did not meet the need of our hunger. In Acts 2:42-47 we see that the early church had been changed by placing their faith in Jesus, and now they were intent on serving. Their work was done to benefit others through their sacrifice. They were not concerned about positions or power, instead they were intent on serving. Through their work of service they continually gave testimony to the fact that Jesus changed them. Yet, if we go back in time we find that the disciples previously had been more interested in positions of importance rather than serving. In Matthew 20 we pick up the recorded story when two disciples approached Jesus, along with their mother, asking for a favor (20). In their ambition and pride they desired positions of greatness alongside Jesus (21). Hearing this conversation the other disciples became angry (24). Jesus stops the argument and reminds them that He has come, not seeking a position, but to serve and sacrifice Himself for the benefit of all (28). Jesus, the greatest servant, served to meet our greatest need of salvation from sin. Christ chose service over self in contrast to the disciples. He came and served sacrificially to meet the hunger of our soul. Like the early church, our service is to be a living testimony of the gospel message and how our savior met our greatest need.

For More See MATTHEW

Service: What Must I Do?

3/10/2024

Matthew 26:6-16
The other day my yard was invaded by a bunch of kids, and I enjoyed every minute of it. We started with games like tug of war, and ended with a big fire. The definition of a fire is a spark that ignites oxygen and fuel. On a cold day the warmth of a fire is nice. But, have you noticed that a fire on a warm day also draws you in? Why? What is it about a fire that attracts us? The movement of the flame is intriguing; the light from the flame is illuminating; the warmth of the flame is inviting. Is that not also true about Jesus? What He does in our world is intriguing. The truth of His words illuminate the darkness of our lives, and His presence invites us into the warmth of a relationship with Him. Like a fire we see that Mary was repeatedly drawn into a relationship with Jesus her Savior. She sat at Jesus feet, listening to Jesus, while Martha made the meal (Luke 10:38-42). She bowed down at Jesus feet, grieving the death of her brother Lazarus (John 11:28-32). Now, at the meal with the disciples, she worships at the feet of Jesus (Matthew 26:6-16; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8). Mary willingly gave her most valued possession in service to Christ. She had a passion to be with, to worship and to serve Jesus, her Savior. In much the same way our love and worship for Jesus should fill the air around us like Mary’s perfume. Do we have that same passion to be with Jesus and sit at His feet and serve Him? We can sit at Jesus feet by spending time listening to His word, responding in prayer and doing what honors Him. Mary’s love for Jesus, and faith in Him, filled the room. Like a fire, may our faith in our Savior draw others into the warmth of His love for them.

Fore more see MATTHEW or EASTER

What is the Church?

1/28/2024

Matthew 16:13-20
“Throw the rocks into the woods and listen to the music they make… rock music!” We all groaned at the joke that our gym teacher had just made. It all started as the weather began to warm, the rocks began to show up and our Jr. High teacher who was also the track coach saw a need. The problem that needed to be addressed was that the gravel running track around the school was full of rocks that would cause tripping or twisted ankle hazards for the track team. His simple solution was to get each and every gym glass outside to throw rocks into the woods and thus clean the track for the runners. However, multiple rocks making multiple thuds is not music in any form. Yet, often we think of the church in that way. We look at what the church does and use that to define what the church is. The function of the church can never define the church. Instead the church finds its source in who God is as one who has a passion for people (Luke 19:10) and a desire for true worshipers (John 4:23-34). Out of that passion and purpose God created something new through the new promise given in the blood of Christ to create a new community of worshipers who are connected through belief in Christ and under the direction of the Spirit. A proper understanding of who God is leads to a correct definition of the church. This in turn directs the function of the church, one that has a passion to whole heartedly follow and worship God. In Matthew 16:13-20 Jesus states that He will build His church (18). Many people have misapplied this passage to historical or present day people. Notice however that Jesus words are a reference to Himself and His action of building His church. Still today we struggle with the idea that our actions are what build a church. In doing so we define the church by what the church does rather than by who the church is founded on. It is just like saying that rocks make music. When we believe that our actions build the church that is not music to God’s ears… it is just a dull thud, like rocks falling in the woods.

For more see MATTHEW or QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Temptation

4/16/2023

Matthew 4:1-11
Temptation, how can we overcome it and how can we prepare for it? It was a very hot day and I was thirsty. In the middle of that day I faced a huge temptation to take a case of juice that was in a shopping cart in the middle of a store parking lot. Someone forgot to put it in their vehicle. No one was around so I picked it up… and then returned it to the customer service desk. I really could have used it, but I chose not to take it because taking it would not have pleased God. In Matthew 4:1-11 Satan tempts Jesus to do his bidding and submit to him, but Jesus rejected each temptation. After each temptation He quotes Scripture to combat the specific temptation placed before him. There are four ways that we can address the temptations that come into our lives. First, we need to be aware of Satan’s temptations by being watchful for our own pride and human weaknesses. Second, we need to prepare for temptations by spending time with God and His Word. Third, we will declare that God alone is worthy of our worship. In contrast, Satan’s desire is for us to submit and follow him rather than God. Finally, we need to care for others who are tempted, and point them to Jesus, our savior, who will help them and give them hope. Finally, our view of God will affect our attitude toward others who are struggling with temptations. When we are under the pressures of temptation we need to keep our eyes on Jesus and follow His solutions for life. 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us that God will give the strength to stand up under the temptations that we face. Do we believe that God is greater than Satan and our temptations? What we believe will affect the way we live.

For more see MATTHEW or TEMPTATION

The Disciple's Characteristic: Commission

3/5/2023

Deuteronomy 31:1-8
One of the greatest paintings of all time is the work of Michelangelo, on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel located in Rome. This enormous piece of art literally pictures much of the Old Testament from Genesis to the kings and even several prophets. The central part of the ceiling illustrates scenes from creation to the flood, with the central pieces showing God creating Adam and Eve, followed by their fall into sin. The main character is God, and Michelangelo depicts the human response to God. This is best illustrated by God reaching out to create Adam. This enormous project was commissioned in 1508 and finished in 1512. The contract, in today’s money, paid him approximately $600,000 in gold coins. Today when we think of a commission, we think of a sales person who earns a commission from selling a car; or an artist, like Michelangelo, who is commissioned to paint a picture. However, a commission is more than that. When used in the Bible the giving of a commission involves authority, communication, action, and completion. In Deuteronomy 31 Moses challenges the people (1-6), and commissions Joshua (7-8). Moses wants the people to experience God’s promised land, and Joshua is commissioned to lead the people into the land under God’s authority. A commission is where someone is given the authority by someone greater to complete a task. Joshua is reminded by Moses, that God will go before him and be with him (8). That is God on a mission with His servant. God’s commission for our lives begins with His authority over our lives. We must listen to His Word and respond obediently by seeking to complete His desires. Are we on our own mission? Are we under God’s commission? Are we living a life of omission, refusing to follow? A disciple responds to God’s commission (Matthew 28:18-20).

For more see DEUTERONOMY or DISCIPLESHIP

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

Jesus Role as King

12/22/2022

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. Jesus came as King to do what was necessary, and make it possible, that all who believe in Him as Savior will be made right with God. 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 the King and worship by thanking Him for His gift of grace to us.

For more see MATTHEW or PROPHET, PRIEST & KING

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

Joseph: Serve to Display Grace

11/28/2021

Matthew 1:18-25
Years ago a movie was produced about three singing chipmunks named Simon, Theodore, and Alvin. One of the songs begins as a peaceful Christmas song… “Christmas time is here again.” In the middle of the song, the constant troublemaker, Alvin, changes the words and sings, “me I want a hula hoop.” The funny thing is that I remember listening to that song on a vinyl record when I was just a wee lad. We can laugh at the self-centeredness of Alvin, but that attitude is prevalent at Christmas and in some of the Christmas characters in the Bible. However, that is not an accurate description of Joseph. In Matthew chapter 1 we see that Joseph was known as a righteous man who sought to live a righteous life that was upright and pleasing to God. He is one of the least known people in the Bible, yet he acts in a way that is unselfish toward Mary by going against his culture and community in order to carry out what God has revealed to him. A righteous and upright life is an important character quality yet it often lacks proper emphasis in the news today. It is easy to do many things and be an important person but it is the quality and character of our life that will be noted and remembered. As we enter the Christmas season we are reminded again of Joseph and the importance of a righteous life. He was noted as an ordinary man who God used, a righteous man that God could use, and a righteous man who lived by faith for God to use. Joseph believed God and his beliefs directed the way he lived and served to display God’s grace. May our lives be ones that are noted for righteousness, usefulness, and faith in God alone.

For more see CHRISTMAS

What is the Church?

7/11/2021

Matthew 16:13-20
A while ago I was in church setting up for Sunday morning. As I walked into the kitchen a squirrel raced across the counter to the window, down to the floor and under a cabinet. The remainder of the day was spent trying to find him, catch him or at least contain him. The last time that I saw him was when he ran out from under a bench, jumped up on the piano and then raced under the organ. From my perspective and analysis I think he is very interested in music. You see, some churches may have a church mouse, some may have bats in the attic, but we seem to have upgraded to a squirrel in the sanctuary. When we think of church we often define the church by where the church building is located and what happens inside the building. Buildings are a place for the church to meet, but the people are the ones who make up the church. In Matthew 16:13-20 Jesus questions His followers regarding who He is. They responded with the common answers that they heard in society. As we read verse 15 we see that Jesus pushed back and asked, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered by stating his belief that Jesus is God sent to be the promised one sent to be the Savior (16). That belief, Jesus says, forms the foundation of the church (18). The church is not a building, though buildings are helpful as places to meet. The church is a place where people are taught and encouraged to live their faith in Christ as they look forward to the day when Christ will return (Hebrews 10:20).

For more see QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Essential Directions for Disciples

1/3/2021

Matthew 28:19-20
The drive to see relatives seems long. In preparation for that drive the question is often asked, “How do we get there?” That may be asked by someone else in the car or it may run through our own mind. In a way need to ask the same question about our own spiritual life. As we start a new year, this is a good time to remind ourselves of what we are to be as believers in Jesus Christ. The Biblical word that describes a follower is a disciple. Thus, a committed follower of Jesus Christ is a disciple of Jesus Christ. What does it take to be a disciple of Christ? If a disciple is a committed follower of Jesus, then a disciple is committed to the message and method of Jesus by copying the model of Jesus. The message is the good news of salvation from sin (Romans 3:23, 5:8, 6:23, 10:9-10, Ephesians 2:8-9). The method involves obedience to the commands of Christ (Matthew 28:19-20, 22:37-40). The model for the disciple is Christ himself as the sacrificial servant (Matthew 20:28). We are called to sacrificially serve as disciple makers because people need to hear the message to change their method of living and beliefs to follow the model of Christ in living a new life. With God’s transforming power at work in our life we will see spiritual growth in our life and the lives of others as we serve Him and help others follow Him.

For more see Discipleship or Ephesians

Fear or Faith

11/12/2020

What is your response to the greatest problem that you face? As people we all have different emotional responses to the various situations that come our way in life. Some of us may respond in anger, some in tears and sometimes we may even runaway or withdraw completely. How can we find the stable calm peace throughout all of life’s situations? Let’s start by examining a core root of our emotions.

We are created by God as people with emotions. Some of us my try to suppress them while others may always seem to be filled with emotional extremes. As we look into the Bible we see Jesus, in Matthew 22:37, state that we are to “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” The word heart refers to thoughts or feelings. So, loving God with all our heart soul and mind means that we are to love God with our total being.

However, the aspect of our heart thoughts or feelings is the most easily distracted and turned away from loving God. Something difficult happens in life and our response is, “God must not love me.” That is an emotional response. All too often the underlying foundation to our emotional response is fear. We fear the future because of some major change in our life so we become angry, we cry or we try to escape. We all respond those ways, but how often do we examine the source of the emotional response? Fear has a way of moving us into action or causing us to freeze in place. If God has designed our emotions, then how can we love Him with our emotions? How does Jesus address this emotional response of the disciples?

Jesus response to His followers is simply, do not fear. He repeats that phrase often to His disciples. His desire is for them to love Him by trusting Him alone above their fear.

Immobilizing Fear
Matthew 8:26 records that Jesus was sleeping in the boat and was awakened by the disciples because they feared for their lives. Jesus rebukes them for being timid or faithless. This type of fear immobilized the disciples from acting out of faith.

Terrifying Fear
Next we see fear as being frightened or extremely alarmed. In Matthew 10:26-31 Jesus is giving instructions and encouragement to the 12 disciples before they go out on a short ministry assignment. Jesus tells the disciples not to be afraid and comments on their value. In Matthew 14:27-30 Jesus and Peter walk on the water. Peter cries out in fear asking to be saved immediately after Jesus had told everyone not to be afraid (27). Then when Jesus was transfigured the disciples fell face down on the ground terrified, but Jesus told them to get up and not be terrified (Matthew 17:6-7). Finally, after His death the women went to the tomb where Jesus was buried (Matthew 28:1-10). They experienced an earthquake, saw an angel and fearful guards. Things were not normal, but the angel and then Jesus told the women not to be afraid.

Calming Fear
Jesus consistent response to the fears of the disciples was, “Do not be afraid.” He calmed their fears by reminding them that they did not need to be afraid. In each instance Jesus reminded the disciples of their value, His presence, His power, and His desire to be with them. That is comforting and empowering when facing new or unknown circumstances.

Are you facing terrifying or immobilizing fears in your life? God reminds us, just as He did the disciples, that we do not need to be afraid. Why? Because He desires to be with us and display His power to us as He strengthens our faith to face our fears. God’s desire is that our faith in Him be greater than that which makes us emotionally respond in fear. May God give us the faith to see His greatness and not the problems in life that cause us to fear.

Ways to Solve Problems

10/27/2020

When we face problems personally or in society we will always hear answers shouted back to us from many different angles. Just the other day I heard someone say that they would control something that they had no control over. How in the world would that ever be accomplished? We as people have come to the point that we confidently believe we have all the answers. We believe that if we use political, social, scientific or even religious means we can solve anything. Is that true? Let’s briefly examine these four ways to solve problems.

Political Solutions
We can be easily tempted to join in a political solution because of the influence of the crowd. Political solutions can be immediate with resources to support the change. The problem is that politicians and political climates change and eventually the reason for change may be lost or forgotten. Political solutions do not last because there will always be another need that pops up demanding attention and change.

Social Solutions
This is a fantastic way to bring change because it feels good to work with others in responding to a need. When there is a need or cause a rallying cry is raised and people respond because it is the right thing to do. The problem is that social solutions have a tendency to address outward needs. Social solutions focus on helping others and many times elevate one person or group above the others in an elitist or snobbish way. Social solutions do not last because people get tired of helping others and many times the money runs out before the problem is solved.

Scientific Solutions
This is the simple reliance on the facts of science. The facts are always correct because they are based on what we can understand on a human level. These facts and truths make complete sense to our way of thinking. Science is based on experiments that prove knowledge and truth. In this line of thinking science has all the answers and there are no other answers. The problem with science is that it is limited to human capabilities, knowledge and measurements. There are questions that science can’t sufficiently answer that require more than just experimental knowledge.

Religious Solutions
These solutions tend to take a deeper look at the heart of the person or group in need. Improper actions are changed because of religious beliefs that are promoted and held as guidelines. Religious solutions are based on moral change. People with religious solutions persuade others to try this certain solution because it is the good way to live. The difficulty with religious solutions is that they can quickly turn into rituals or habits with the belief that this practice is what provides the solution to my life problem. The reason for change is lost or forgotten over time in the habit that makes seems to make one better.

What is the Solution?
By examining each of the previous positions we see strengths but also major flaws. Each of the previous solutions may partially address the need but they do not offer a complete and lasting solution. True lasting solutions are found only through belief by faith in Jesus Christ as savior (Romans 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8-9). There needs to be a heart change, a mind change and action change. In Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus states reminds His followers that love must be the central focus. When we truly understand how much God has loved us we will love Him. When we believe and practice that we are loved by God we will truly be able to love others. The passage that Jesus referenced is found in Deuteronomy 6:4-5. It is known as the Shema which means to hear and obey. We are to hear with our total being; heart, soul and mind; and we are to love with our total being.

When we love God completely we will be able to love others with the same love that we have been shown unconditionally through Jesus Christ. That is a lasting solution to the many problems that our world faces. People need to know that they are loved by God so they can help others love God as well. Our world has twisted the definition of love to mean many incorrect things that seeks the satisfaction of one person over another. The problems that we see in our world or in our lives can be boiled down to either a lack of love for God, a lack of love for others or a combination of the two. God offers a lasting solution to the problems that we face by loving Him completely and totally and loving others. That is the only way to solve problems and provide a lasting solution.

For further thoughts on this subject try reading and studying through the book of Jonah or review some other articles on conflict resolution. Even though Jonah knew God he allowed his personal pride and prejudice to cloud his understanding of how much God loved other people.

Dispute Resolution

9/21/2020

What do you do if a misunderstanding escalates into a full blown dispute? Something was said or done quite innocently or even unknowingly and it seems like gasoline was just thrown on a fire. There was a huge explosion and now nothing is the same with pieces of a relationship blown up and scattered all over the place. Where do you begin as you try and patch these broken relationship pieces back together? There are a number of helpful tips that we find in the pages of Scripture. The following are offered as tools to use in the midst of a dispute.

First, try using a mediator. Some cultures find this to be very valuable in avoiding the shame of face to face conflict. A mediator is a wise person that is called in an attempt to reconcile two parties who are in the midst of a conflict. Jesus Christ is the mediator between God and sinful humankind (1 Timothy 2:5). We need to model our lives after Christ and be that peace making party. If we are personally involved in an unresolved conflict it is always a good idea to call in a wise elder for counsel and help. They can speak with the wisdom of age and the wisdom of an outside perspective. Ultimately we need to use Christ as our mediator and pray about the situation, our involvement, the other party and ask God to help bring a resolution that would honor Him.

Next, we need to watch out for words of gossip and attitudes that seek to destroy the other person. Gossip is simply uncontrolled conversation that is not true. By using gossip we ultimately seek to tear the other person down and make ourselves look better. Gossip pridefully betrays a confidence (Proverbs 11:3 & 20:19). When we gossip it makes the problem worse (Proverbs 26:20) by spreading it to the larger community and involving others. Gossip in many ways is like a mold that grows on a piece of food. It will continue to destroy what is good unless it is cut off and removed. We need to correct our attitudes of pride that lead to gossip because others and God will see it for the sinful contamination that it truly is.

The third tool is to pray. We often think that prayer is just our conversation with God about us, but God desires that it be so much more. Have you prayed for your enemy, the one you are in conflict with? Romans 12:12 challenges us to be persistent in prayer even for our enemies. Jesus said that we are to love our enemies and pray for them (Matthew 5:44-45). In some ways, this is the easiest solution and yet it is the most difficult. Why? Well, there is part of us that thinks we are better than the enemy and we portray that to God when we pray. We want God to destroy the enemy rather than see them restored. We need God’s perspective and that can be gained through prayer.

Fourth, we need to act righteously toward our enemy. In Romans 12, Paul challenges his audience and even us today with three practical steps. The first thing he says highlights our sense of justice for being wronged. Paul says that we should not try and correct the injustice by turning around and acting unjustly (Romans 12:17). Our attitude and consistent desire should be one that constantly seeks to live in peace with others (Romans 12:18). Finally, Paul emphasizes the value of acting in a way that is contrary to conflict (Romans 12:20). When we can show grace and give to an enemy what is not deserved that is when we have truly understood God’s grace that He has shown to us.

May God give us the courage and the grace to be problem solvers not problem creators.

For more see CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Lighter Load

6/29/2020

Matthew 11:28-30
The backpack was heavy. I had two gallon jars of spaghetti sauce plus several full roles of tinfoil. On their own they may not seem like much, but in a backpack on your back you feel their weight with every step. I carried them for the duration of a multi-day team building wilderness adventure. Through out the time on the trail I only found relief when someone came up behind me slightly lifted the pack as we paused for a break or when I was able to take the pack off at night. When someone else helped with my load I instantaneously felt lighter and energized to take on the next section of trail. In Matthew 11:28 we see Jesus offer an invitation of rest from the heavy loads that we may be carrying. There is a simple exchange of a burden for rest. God wants us to feel the weight of our burdens in life, but He also longs to help us us learn a better way to deal with life as we walk next to Him. The only way to find rest for your soul is to have a relationship with Jesus live under His guidance (Matthew 11:29). So… What do you plan to do with your backpack full of heavy burdens?