Category: Sin - Jethro TOOLS

God's Boat Builder

5/3/2026

Genesis 5-6
Have you ever thought about building a boat? I have seen boats made from wood, steel, aluminum, fiberglass and even concrete. What ever the boat is made from, the greatest concern is stability and safety in the water. Will the boat stay afloat? Will it remain steady and balanced? Safety and stability are the focus of the boat building process. So, what does it take to build a boat? We might come up with a list of tools, some plans and a list of materials. Technology and electricity will accelerate the process. But what if you were Noah, and God told you to build a boat? Noah did not dream of being a boat builder, but it became his God given job. This was an assigned task and an exercise of faith. In Genesis six we see the sinful corruption of the worldwide population. Yet, in the midst of sin, Noah was living a righteous life that pleased God (1-8). God recognized his character and commanded that he build a boat (9-22). Noah had 120 years (Genesis 6:3) to build a boat that was larger than a football field and he had to do it all by hand without power tools and today’s technology. What does it take to build an unsinkable boat? Noah held to an unsinkable faith in God and unsinkable resolve to complete the task that God had assigned to him. Hebrews 11:7 records that Noah was a man of faith. How is your faith? Noah remained unwavering in his commitment to God in a hostile culture. He continued with an unmovable resolve to complete what God had called him to do. Time can wear on our perseverance and faith. God called Noah to be faithful in a faithless culture. God still calls us to walk with Him and work for Him. What boat has God called you to build in a faithless culture that needs to see our unshakable faith in our faithful Savior?

For More See GENESIS

The Change

4/19/2026

Genesis 3:8-24
Years ago I ended up taking care of a rescued dog that my daughter had befriended. She did not have a living situation that allowed dogs so I ended up with a tricolored Australian Shepherd named Sky, that had definitely been abused. Despite being about 50 to 60 pounds he cowered in my presence when we first met. I learned very quickly that he had a streak of stubborn independence, and that he did not like men in particular. As I watched him and worked with him, I began to assemble some of the puzzling pieces of his past life. He probably had an owner that cared very little for him and so Sky developed the bad habit of an independent streak that opposed his owner. After various forms of abuse the owner seems to have hauled the dog to the middle of the woods and dumped him to fend for himself. That is where my daughter found him at camp. An owner that did not care, and a stubborn dog who refused to obey, was a recipe for disaster. The dog that cowered before me was broken and needed the loving, but firm hand, of one who was trustworthy. Similarly, we as people stubbornly insist on our way, just like Sky, or Adam and Eve in Genesis chapter three. I had to pursue a relationship with a broken dog just as God pursued a relationship with stubborn and sinful humanity (8-9). God refused to turn away from the creation that He made and the people that He loved. In His love, he moved toward the sinners calling them back to Himself. In sin, Adam and Eve ran and hid from God’s presence (10). Sin caused the separation from God and from enjoying His good. God is good, His word is true, and His way is right. We, like a broken dog, need to listen to Him, trust Him and follow Him in order to experience His goodness and rest.

For More See GENESIS

Downward Spiral of Sin

4/12/2026

Genesis 3:1-7
Beliefs mattered to the early church. Around 400 AD there were two men who took opposing views on the issue of the original sin that started in the Garden of Eden and the sinful nature that has been passed down through generations. The first man is Pelagius. He rejected the idea of original sin and instead argued that humanity has the capacity to obey and follow God’s law perfectly. On the other side of the debate is Augustine, who believed in the complete sinfulness of man and the need for man to completely depend on the grace of God for salvation. Today, we face a growing and concerning trend in that people believe they are basically good. Studies show that even church attenders do not believe that they are sinful and in need of God’s grace. This trend is worsening in the younger generations. The deceitfulness of Satan still reigns as he still tries to convince people that they are good without God. The problem is this the same argument that was used in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve in Genesis 3. The opening verses of this chapter describe a downward spiral of sin. First there is Satan and the deceptive temptation (1), which is followed by the distortion of God’s words (2-3). The next step down involves doubting God (4-5), which leads to desiring other things apart from God (6). Finally, the first human couple disobey God’s direct command and thus commit the first sin (7). Their broken moral character is now passed down from generation to generation. We can choose to follow sin or we can choose to follow Christ. I exhort you, as does Augustine from the pages of history, call out to Christ for the forgiveness of sin and the salvation of your soul. We are not able to fix ourselves. We as sinners (Romans 3:10-11, 23-24), must depend on a gracious God who loved us and gave Himself for us (Ephesians 5:2).

For More See GENESIS

Living by Faith

9/7/2025

Habakkuk 1:12-2:20
As I walked toward the garden I noticed movement. Further investigation revealed several small green and yellow birds inside the netting that covered the berry plants. With a total length of about four inches they were small enough to wriggle through the mesh that kept larger birds from eating the berries. The problem is that once inside they could not figure out how to get out. Would I step into their world and release them, or would I allow them to continue to suffer? The book of Habakkuk records the on going conversation between God and the prophet Habakkuk. The author, Habakkuk, questions when God will put a stop to the sin, injustice and idolatry (1:12-17). God counters with the challenge to live by faith (2:4). Habakkuk, as one who was righteous, was to take his eyes off others and truly live a life of faith that contrasted the sin of others. He was to live this upright God honoring life because of his faith in God. When all others are being unfaithful to God Habakkuk was to live counter to his culture and display his confident belief in God. Habakkuk saw the problems of sin within his own country of Judah, but he also saw the greater sin of the coming Babylonians. This grieved him and caused him to question God. Do the conditions in our world deepen our dependence on God and commitment to Him? Like Habakkuk, God still calls us to live by faith trusting His sovereign power and plan. God is at work calling us to Himself and cleansing us to live a righteous life through faith in Him. Like the birds that were caught, we need a savior to step into our world and free us to live by faith for Him alone. God has accomplished that through Jesus. This passage reminds us that the righteous will live by faith trusting in the only sovereign savior, Jesus.

For More See HABAKKUK

Renewed

3/23/2025

Colossians 3:1-11
Understanding the difference between truth and falsehood has been a problem for humanity since the beginning of time, as seen in Genesis 3 with Adam and Eve. Even today, we struggle determining what is true as we watch the news. Yet, the truth will always be made clear. For example, how can you tell a real diamond from one that is fake? One simple test is to place the stone on a newspaper. If you can see through the stone and read the words it is fake. A real diamond will intensely reflect light not allowing you to see the words. A real diamond reflects the truth where a fake diamond lacks the reflective quality. As in life, you will be able to see through what is false. So what does true spirituality look like? How can we determine a genuine spiritual life in contrast to a fake? In our study of Colossians, Paul challenges his readers regarding their following of others and their false ideas about a spiritual life rather than following Christ. In Colossians chapter 3 Paul changes the focus of his letter from what to know about Christ to how to walk with Christ. With this shift, the audience is challenged to live a daily spiritual life not based on the false reality of false teaching, but on the reality of what Christ has done for them. Their focus, like ours, should be on a God pleasing lifestyle not on a life of sin and self pleasure. If Christ is truly supreme in our life then our consistent desire will be to reflect God’s purity through our lives. So, set your mind and heart to live for Christ and encourage others to do the same. If we truly believe that Christ is supreme then we will allow Him to be supreme in us and reflected through our life, like a diamond. That is genuine spiritual life.

For More See COLOSSIANS or SHEBA

Restored

3/16/2025

Romans 6
The old shed on the back corner of our property seemed like a worthy investment. So in the spring, after thinking and planning repairs all winter, I started. The building had settled and rotted its original support beams, requiring the foundation to be rebuilt. Once the shed was level and stable the roof and the door were replaced to keep the structure dry and free from roaming critters. Since the outside was able to withstand the extremes of weather, I turned my attention to the inside to make the shed functional. A simple shelf and some hooks made a once rundown and deteriorated building useful again. In many ways we are like an old shed. God sees us, and purchases us, to restore us to the functional purpose that He designed us to be. In Romans chapter 6, Paul calls this process sanctification. From the point of salvation, God begins a process of removing the practice of sin from the life of the believer. The control of sin is broken (1-14) through what Christ has accomplished on the cross for us. But God does not just leave us there. He wants to restore us to the true servants that He originally intended us to be. There is a change that takes place as the believer no longer serves sin, but gives the control of their life to God (15-23). Gradually, the practice of sin is replaced with purity and a righteous life that pleases God. Sanctification is God’s life long process that He works in us to restore us to His standard. Speaking of our relationship with Jesus, Peter writes, “like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, “You Shall Be Holy, For I Am Holy. (1 Peter 1:15). What we believe will change the way that we live. What we live will prove what we truly believe.

For More See ROMANS or SHEBA

The Disciple's Vision

1/26/2025

Luke 19:1-10
Have you lost something? We have all lost something at some point in time like keys, glasses, or that important paper. But what about the times when we realize that what we have is something we don’t really desire like an old shirt, a broken chair, or out of style shoes. Our focus shifts from the invaluable things of the present, to a desire for some other thing. All too often we assign too much value to power, positions, and possessions, that we miss what is truly valuable. That is the story of Zacchaeus. Luke 19 tells us that he had power, position, and wealth (2), yet above those things he was motivated to see Jesus (3), and nothing was going to stop him (4). He had everything that a man could possibly get in this world, and yet he was an outcast searching for answers to the deep longings of his heart. He desired to be known and accepted. Zacchaeus had come to the point where he knew his life was not right. Yet, regardless of his sin, Jesus sought him out. He knew exactly where Zaccheus was in the tree and noted the change that faith had brought to his life (9). Jesus came to seek and save the lost (10). His focused vision for coming into this world was to save sinners (1 Tim. 1:15). Today, God works in us and through us to seek out the lost around us. We must believe and accept the salvation offered only through Jesus. It is His sacrifice on the cross that makes us right with God. As disciples of Jesus, we are to adopt His vision for the lost. Zacchaeus desired a new way to live with new values and a new vision for life. That drove him to search for answers and seek out Jesus. May we believe in Jesus as Savior, adopt His way of living, and help others do the same. Has Jesus found you and radically changed you?

For More See LUKE or 1 TIMOTHY 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

The Gift

12/15/2024

Isaiah 9:3-7
Gift giving is on our minds at this time of year. At times we all struggle to determine what to give that certain someone. If you ask others for advice on what to give, you may hear a wide range of answers including something to eat, something to wear, something to do, or even time with you. Helpful as that list of suggestions may be, we are still left scratching our heads, puzzled by what to give. Perhaps we need to simplify the process. Rather than thinking about what to give the other person, it might be better to think like the other person. Once we begin to think of a great gift from the receivers perspective we will see what they need and value most, then give accordingly. That is exactly what God has done for us. In Isaiah 9 we see that God clearly understands us as people and gives us exactly what we need. Isaiah, under God’s direction, records God’s promise that a child will be born and a son will be given (6). God is making a grand announcement proclaiming what He will do for us. This simple verse describes the human side of a child being born and also the divine side of God giving His son. What is this? This is God, through Isaiah, building in the people the belief that God will come and live with man as God with us, Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14). The rest of Isaiah 9:6 goes on to describe how this gift from God is exactly what lost and sinful humanity needs. At Christmas our gift giving is a very small imitation of the gift of Jesus himself, that has been given to us. God knew exactly what we needed and gave His Son to forgive us, restore us and give us new life (John 3:16). In Jesus, God has given the perfect gift of salvation that we have deeply desired.

For More See ISAIAH or CHRISTMAS

New Life New Walk

4/28/2024

Ephesians 4:17-32
In 1979, a new television show aired that was called This Old House. That show has now been produced for 45 seasons. Each half hour show records the process of how a team of workers completely transforms an old house into a new one. While the house will still retain its recognizable historic and architectural lines on the outside, on the inside it is completely different. From cracked foundations to rotten timbers and broken windows, everything is made new because of the master carpenters and their unwavering effort. In much the same way, we have a master carpenter at work in our lives. From the moment we trust Christ as our Savior the transformation process begins. In the book of Ephesians, Paul emphasizes how God’s grace, displayed through Jesus Christ, changes everything and makes us new. What we see in Ephesians 4:17-32 is similar to what we see on This Old House. Paul discussed a practical transformation from old too new, from broken to functional, from decay to delight, all at the hands of the master carpenter, our God and Savior. Paul reminds the Ephesian believers to not be corrupted by, and insensitive to, sin as they were in their previous lives before knowing Christ (17-19). He then calls them to live holy lives that are made new by God in true righteousness and holiness (20-24). Finally, Paul leaves the Ephesian believers with the challenge to live new lives (25-31). The practice of this new life and new walk displays the reality that their relationship with Jesus Christ has truly changed them. Like that church, we are challenged by Paul to live new lives that are modeled after Jesus Christ (32). The final result, like a restored old house, is that we are on display for all to see the greatness of our God, who transforms us from broken too beautiful.

For more see EPHESIANS

That is Good

3/24/2024

Luke 23:26-48
There is an old story, from an unknown author, about an old king and his friend. This friend always had the habit of saying, “This is good,” in response to any and all situations. One day the king and this friend were out hunting and the gun exploded blowing off the king’s thumb. As expected the friend replied, “This is good.” The king became angry and sent his friend to jail. About a year later the king wandered into enemy territory and was captured. However, upon examination the enemies found him to be unacceptable because he was missing his thumb and thus not whole. So, being superstitious, they decided not to kill him and instead released him. On his way home the king thought about his life and his old friend. He immediately went to the jail and apologized to his friend. His friend replied, like normal, “This is good.” The king became upset, “How can being in jail be good?” The friend replied, “If I was not in jail I would have been with you.” Just like that story, the bad of Jesus crucifixion is good. His forgiveness changed people and changes us. In Luke 23 we read of the changed criminal (39-43) as he believed that Jesus was sinless, unlike himself. We also see the change in the hardened centurion (47) as he watched a righteous man die. Finally, we see changes in the crowd (48) as they return home with remorse having witnessed the Savior die. Jesus displayed grace to those in sorrow (28), forgiveness to the soldiers killing Him (34), and pardon to the convicted criminal (43). All this was accomplished in the moments before His death. It was His sacrifice and pain that purchased our pardon from sin. Jesus died for us and that is good. We can be forgiven and find release from the burden of sin through believing that His death was for our good.

For more see LUKE or EASTER

What Will You Do With Jesus?

4/10/2023

Luke 24
It all began a week ago. There was a thump on the window and then thrashing and scratching. This continued for days until I finally caught a glimpse of a Robin staring at the window and then attacking the window in defense of its territory. The problem is that the Robin was fighting the reflection of its own image. Research has informed me that eventually the love sick Robin will stop, and tend to caring for his nest. In his angry little bird brain the Robin only sees a rival and a threat, not reality. We approach Easter and the resurrection in much the same way. On Easter we come face to face with the intersection of divinity and humanity. Jesus as a man died, but as God He was raised from the dead and returned to life. That is the dilemma the people in Luke 24 faced. At the resurrection of Jesus there were questions of belief (1-12). However, His followers publicly proclaimed that the resurrection is a reality. That was followed by the searching questions from two of His followers. However, Jesus met them, and pointed them to the Scriptures and the necessity of His death to pay for sin (13-27). Salvation is possible through belief in Jesus Christ alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 makes it clear that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ and not by anything we can do on our own. Jesus paid our debt of sin and because He lives we can have new life through Him. Our faith and hope are based on Christ and His love for us. On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. As in Luke 24, Jesus wants to change us from doubters to ones who tell others of Him (33-36). What will you do with Jesus? Have your eyes been opened to the reality that that Jesus is alive (28-32)?

for more see LUKE or EASTER

Why Evangelize?

3/12/2023

2 Corinthians 5:14-21
One day a man who had not been feeling well went to see the doctor. After an examination and tests the doctor sent the man home, promising to call him with the results. The next day the doctor called and said, “Well I have good news and bad news. Which do you want first?” The man thought for a moment and asked for the good news. The doctor replied, “Good news is that you have 24 hours to live.” Confused, the patient asked, “If that was the good news what is the bad news?” “Well,” the doctor said, “the bad news is that I should have called you yesterday.” In a similar manner we, as believers in Jesus, often have a problem when it comes to telling others about Him. Often we turn the truth of scripture into a hammer and try to beat people into belief in Jesus. Then, on the other extreme, we take grace too far and it turns into friendship with no message proclaiming Christ. John 1:14 & 17 record that Jesus was full of grace and truth. He did not back away from the truth and He did not neglect to use grace. Jesus came full of grace and truth, and we should be the same. We need to speak the truth with words of grace so others will see Jesus in our message of evangelism. We need to live the truth with actions of grace so others will see Jesus in our method of evangelism. In Acts 4:12, Peter is speaks of Jesus saying, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” Christ’s love for us on the cross compels us to act on our belief of Him as savior, and serve as His messenger of good news (2 Corinthians 5:14-21) to those living with the bad news of sin.

For more see 2 CORINTHIANS or DISCIPLESHIP

Jesus Role as Priest

12/22/2022

John 17
Have you ever gone to a doctor and felt like they did not listen or care? You probably walked out and looked for another doctor. We expect doctors to have our best interest in mind. They are giving us advice and researched opinions regarding our health. They have the job of making us better. Similarly, Jesus as a priest is deeply concerned about the spiritual health of people. A priest will offer sacrifices for sin, guide in true worship and help restore mankind to God. In John 17 we see Jesus express a passionate interest in His disciples and other future believers in Him. He is requesting that the Father guide, protect and unify His disciples. He desires that His followers accept His gift of salvation and know that they are kept securely in that salvation by the Father. He also seeks their transformation through the revealed word of God so they will share the greatness of Him with others. Jesus, as priest, is the one who seeks God’s best for mankind. This Christmas I hope that you grow in your joy knowing that Jesus came to save us, change us and cure us from the sickness of sin.

For more see JOHN or PROPHET, PRIEST & KING

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

Christmas & Incarnation

12/4/2022

Philippians 2:5-8
I recall late one fall that we added two kittens to our household number. They were young and of course very mischievous. My Dad threatened to call them Fun and Games, but in reality they were more like Trouble and Terrible. Those two would chase each other all over the house. However, their favorite arena to display all their antics was the living room rug. I still remember all of us sitting in the living room and laughing as two kittens raced and jumped all over. Who needs an entertainment center or a TV when you have energetic kittens displaying their skill! The kittens were great, but then came Christmas and the insertion of a tree into their venue of toys. I recall several occasions where the tree ended up horizontal on the floor because of climbing kittens. My Dad, being the wise man that he was, tied a stout string to the top of the tree and the other end to a hook in the ceiling. Problem solved. Likewise, Christmas also reminds us of the problem called sin and God’s solution to send Jesus into our world to be our savior. This is called the incarnation and it highlights the truth that God stepped out of time and space and stepped into our world to be born as a baby. Philippians 2 speaks of the example and incarnation of Christ. The purpose of the incarnation is to make God known to humanity (5-6). The result is that Jesus now gives us a practical example for a new way to live (7). However, the incarnation is also personal in that Jesus is the sacrifice for our sin (8). Our problem of sin finds its solution in Jesus. Problem solved. The kittens still climbed the tree, but Dad’s solution worked. Our sin caused the Christ of Christmas to die on a tree and His solution still works.

For more see PHILIPPIANS or SYMBOLS OF CHRISTMAS

Also Blog article on Salvation

Walk Humbly: Confident Hope in God

7/3/2022

Micah 7:1-20
Yesterday I stepped in a water puddle in the kitchen. No, there was not a hole in the roof, but I did discover that there was a hole in a pipe. Previously I had heard a scraping noise in the kitchen. I later determined it was a mouse. Yet now, a water line to the dishwasher sprang a leak. Unknown to me, the mouse had chewed the water line but not enough to cause a flood until later. However, there was hope. The very reliable and well stocked hardware store was still open. So after a trip, purchasing a new hose and some time for installation the dishwasher is back to being useful and reliable for the future. In Micah 7 we see that the nation of Israel was hopeless without God (1-6). They were facing the consequences and ruin of sin that had chewed away at their life. Now, God is calling them back to a correct walk with Him. However, because of the sin, the present situation is troubling. Micah, in verses 7-10, presents a confident attitude of trust in God even when things are looking bad. Micah reminded the people to walk humbly with God and rely on Him alone for their future to experience His restoration and work through them (11-20). The same is true for us today. We must walk through life humbly following God and His directions. If we do not, we will end up in trouble like the nation of Israel with leaking un-contained sin. However, if we do choose to walk with God and allow Him to properly orient our life we will find hope in the present. In walking with God we will find that He is completely reliable now and in the future. Micah desires that we, like the nation, find our confidence and hope in God. Are we walking humbly with our God?

For more see MICAH

Act Justly: The Results of Corruption

6/5/2022

Micah 2:3-13
This past year I have noticed an orange spot developing in front of my house. Upon closer inspection I found it to be rust that is dripping from a developing rust spot on the car that is always parked there. Rust is the visible result of weakened metal due to a corrosive process called oxidation. This process is accelerated by the exposure to moisture, salt and the chemicals that are put on the icy roads in the winter. The only way to remove the rust from the vehicle is to remove the car from the corrosive environment and remove the rust. That requires taking the car to an automotive body shop where a technician will cut out the rusted metal and replace it with good new metal. Like the rust on the car Micah 2 records the results of ongoing corrupting sin. In a way Micah describes a courtroom scene where charges are brought against the guilty. The charge of civil corruption is leveled against those who operated out of personal greed and took land that was not allotted to them by God (4-5). Next is the charge of spiritual corruption where the people rejected God and His somber message (6-7). The final charge is one of moral corruption (8-11). The people and the prophets were guilty of using falsehood for their own personal benefit. In view of these serious charges God still offers hope and a cure for sin (12-13). Hope is given, salvation is promised and a savior is coming. That is good news for us even today. God will provide an accurate assessment of our life and the corruption of our sin, but he also offers hope and a cure for sin through Jesus and His gift of salvation. God displays His justice to us and we are to display His justice though our lives to our world.

For more see MICAH

Whom Shall I Send?

5/1/2022

Isaiah 6
Years ago I worked for a printing company that produced anything from business forms to business cards and brochures. One of the key steps in the printing process was a quality check. The easiest way to make sure that a customer received a quality product was to wash your hands. Printing ink on your hands would leave dirty fingerprints on the printed message. Similarly, as kids I am sure we all heard the same message… WASH YOUR HANDS FIRST! Mom always mandated we clean up first before coming for a meal. Cleanliness is a priority for health and none of us wanted to have sand in our sandwich. In Isaiah 6 the prophet Isaiah had a vision of God and His complete sovereignty and power (1-2). But what followed was earthshaking praise as the angels declared God’s holiness (3-4). At that moment Isaiah realized his shortcomings, sin and impurity in comparison to God (5). However, God took the unclean Isaiah and purified him in preparation for speaking God’s message of truth to a sinfully corrupt people (5-6). Then God asked the question, “Whom shall I send?” (8). That question is staggering. The God of the universe seeks the involvement of sinful Isaiah. Like Isaiah we need to clearly understand who God is. However, our view of God will impact our view of our self, our world and the urgency of His message. We need to realize that God desires to cleanse us because He seeks to use us to deliver a clear message about Him. Our view of God will impact our response and availability. Like a dirty smudge mark on printed paper sin in our lives will distract others from God’s message. Remember that God cleans us and calls us so He can use us. What a privilege and responsibility! Today, God still asks, “Whom shall I send?

For more see QUESTIONS FROM GOD

Where Are You?

4/10/2022

Genesis 3:6-11
The other day we discovered that the floor mop had broken. I tried to fix a plastic part, but to no avail. So a trip to the store for a replacement was needed. I could go to the store and wander around hoping that I would eventually bump into the isle of mops. Or, I could respond to the question from a store employee… What can I help you find today? The response of the employee will give me directions to the proper location, or perhaps they will even take me to the exact spot in the store. The store employee is trained to greet customers and ask what they need because it creates a relationship, builds trust and provides increased sales. We may know where the right store is but not know where to find what we need to solve our problem. In a good store a question starts a conversation that leads to a solution. We see the same thing take place in Genesis 3 as God calls out to Adam and Eve, “Where are you?” (9). This question defined the position of Adam and Eve as hiding from God (10). They thought they could hide and that was faulty because God knows everything. Secondly, the question of “Where are you?” has to do with the relationship that Adam and Eve had with God. He was still pursuing them even though they had sinned. Thirdly, the question of “Where are you?” directs our purpose of living to return to God and be forgiven and restored by Him. I pray that you will desire Jesus because He desires to be your savior and the leader of your life. He alone gives purpose to life and hope for all eternity. He alone determines the process of restoration as we trust in Him for salvation. He alone defines our position as children who are close to Him.

For more see QUESTIONS FROM GOD

What is Salvation?

6/27/2021

Colossians 2:13-15, Romans 5:1-2, Romans 8:28-30, 1 John 3:2-3
There is an old saying, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” The meaning of this highlights the special nature of actually holding a bird as compared to just seeing them sitting in a tree. There are actually two instances where I held birds that came down the chimney of my wood stove. One was a duck that scared the living daylights out of me when I went to start a fire. Then in a different house, there were two birds that decided to make a similar journey down the chimney. Comedy would probably best describe me chasing and attempting to capture the birds. I remember asking myself, “Are they really worth saving?” Thankfully, in the end, I was able to watch each of them fly away. Perhaps they were thankful they did not have to pay the price of their mistake. Perhaps they were thankful to be released from the power of the stove that trapped them. Or perhaps they were just thankful to be away from my terrifying presence. For us, salvation is much the same and should lead to a similar response. At salvation God justifies those who believe by faith so they no longer have to pay the price for sin all because of what Christ did on the cross. The believer is released from the power of sin over their life to live a sanctified life being transformed daily by the Holy Spirit. The future is filled with the certain hope of heaven, being free from the presence of sin, and having the process of sanctification finally completed. What glory! Justification, sanctification and glorification form the framework of God’s past, present and future work of salvation for the believer. Our response like the birds is thankfulness for the transformation and freedom of a new life.

For more see QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Who is God? Creator, Redeemer, Restorer

6/13/2021

Genesis 1, Genesis 3, Acts 2, Revelation 7
This past week I was saddened when I was made aware of the passing of two people. One was an elderly man and the other was a young woman. Both were described as adventurous and joyful, both had contracted cancer, but both had trusted Jesus as their savior. They lived life differently because of Christ and they lived to bring honor to God their savior as His image bearer. We are created by God and bear His image (Genesis 1:26-27). We resemble our creator in the aspect of being relational people in need of relationship with God and others (Genesis 1:28-29). The results of Adam and Eve’s sin (Genesis 3) have led to broken relationships with God and others, distorted worship of our self and others instead of God, and the destruction of murder by taking the life of others created in God’s image. Peter proclaims that Jesus came and was crucified thus becoming the source of salvation for all people (Acts 2:36). This message rang true and 3000 people respond (Acts 2:37-41). The church was started and redeemed people were now restored to worship their creator and redeemer. All those who are redeemed from sin by faith in Jesus Christ will one day be united together in their praise of their savior (Revelation 7:9-10). In Christ the divisions of geography, race and language are removed as people from every tribe, and nation worship their creator and redeemer as part of the family of God. We start our journey of faith here on earth but it continues forever in heaven through the worship of our creator, redeemer and restorer. The two that I mentioned earlier are doing just that.

For more see QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Debt Payment Guaranteed

5/23/2021

Philemon 18-20
What is debt? Debt is something that is owed or due. Most often debt involves money but there can be other debt like a debt of service or love. Each one of us, most likely, has some debt. It may be an auto loan, a house mortgage, a credit card, a student loan or even a loan between family or friends. Debt is incurred because we assess our level of desire or need and decide to borrow from someone else so this need or desire can be met. The act of borrowing makes us indebted to someone else. Now, what would you say if I told you that I would completely pay off all your debt? Paul was offering to do the same thing for Onesimus. In Philemon 18-20 Paul offers to not only pay off any debt that was owed to Philemon by Onesimus, but he also personally guaranteed the payment. Going beyond this promise, Paul is encouraging Philemon to display God’s grace toward Onesimus, in the same way he has received God’s grace. Like Onesimus, Philemon did not deserve grace. In the same way, like Onesimus, we also have a debt of sin that we can’t pay, however Jesus offers and guarantees to pay for our sin. He becomes our substitute, taking on our debt, so we can live a new life because of His grace. By faith we must accept this offer and live a new life because of God’s grace to display God’s grace. Knowing Jesus as savior changes everything about debt for Philemon, Onesimus and us.

For more see PHILEMON

Darkness and Hope

11/29/2020

Isaiah 8:1-9:2
Growing up, my mother would store canned garden produce and other food items down the stairs, around the corner and under the stairs. Often she would randomly select one of us to go gather a couple of items and bring them up for the meal she was preparing. Often the one that was selected did not want to make the trip. Mom would get serious and then, they finally made the trip to the basement. The problem was that during the delay the others who were not selected often crept quietly downstairs and waited to ambush the unsuspecting sibling. Not only could they not see they also did not know what awaited them in the dark. The people of Israel had spent much time wandering away from God in their own spiritual darkness. Isaiah 8 highlights that God alone has a message that can be trusted and He wants His people to follow Him. The problem is that the people did not trust God yet Isaiah and his family live as an example of trust in God (Isaiah 8:18). Like Isaiah we live in a world darkened by sin. People will still search for solutions for the darkness in their life but neglect the real hope and light that God offers (Isaiah 9:2). Jesus says, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). Today, God offers light through salvation in Jesus in contrast to the darkness and gloom of a life without Him. Regardless of the darkness and gloom that seem to surround you trust in God who promises to be Emmanuel, God with us.

For more see Isaiah

The Stinking Dog

11/15/2020

The morning was slightly overcast and cool so I decided that it was a good day to walk the dog. I wanted to have a quiet walk and listen to God but the dog was not in a listening mood. We ran to the park to burn some of his energy. It sort of worked. The walk in the park was quiet. It always is when most everyone else is in bed. I decided to take a longer way home to give the dog some extra time out of the yard and me a chance to see the dried out lake and the birds. The walk proceeded with the dog wandering by the lake and me on the path. It was time to go and the dog did not listen to my calls. I walked closer to the lake calling for him. Still no answer. Where was he?

Finally he sauntered out of the tall grass and weeds with his head down and tongue hanging out of his mouth. He was not acting normal with one eye half closed and foam dripping off his tongue. On top of his odd behaviour he smelled even worse. The smell of skunk! My old dog tried to roll in the grass to wash his face but it only aggravated the problem. The pace of our walk going home was considerably slower than when we left. As we arrived home the neighbor across the street made a loud comment "Oh yuck, skunk!" I am glad she did not know the source was a hundred feet away.

Once home I decided it was time for the dog to get a tomato juice bath, so off I went to Walmart to buy 3 large cans. The dog was not pleased to have tomato juice dumped on him and then scrubbed into his fur. By the time we were done with that part of the treatment I think he hit his head and mumbled "I could have had a V8." The juice neutralized the smell but did not remove it. Step two was to take the blood red dog and empty a box of baking soda on him while scrubbing it in. The stinking dog has now learned to like tomato juice and baking soda more than skunks. However, the process was not complete because now he needed to be cleaned with soap and water. The final step of purification included soap on his face and I am sure in his eyes. A final rinse and scrub several hours after the process started and the stinking dog was close to normal.

My goal this morning was a time to listen to God. My stinking dog assisted in the process. God reminded me through a wayward dog what I am like. As people we are wanderers at heart and the results are not pleasant. We need a cleansing from the red blood and white purity of a Savior who stepped out of heaven. He could have left us in the stench of sin and walked away but He did not. Like the stinking dog, my sin carries a stench that fills the sky and our world. God sent His Son, to step into our world and dirty Himself with our sin so we could be made clean and acceptable to Him. The result is that we live as a testimony of His work in us. So much for a quiet morning but what a lesson. I just needed to listen.