Looking Forward

“...for we walk by faith, not by sight.” II Cor 5:7

As we come to the end of 2008, we stand on the threshold of a new year.

These last few months, we have witnessed the downturn of our economy, we have elected a new president, we have voted on a proposition that has literally divided our state and the prospect of a quick recovery seems slim at best.

But here is the truth to hold on to - we are to walk by faith, not sight.
It’s not what we see, but who is in control.
It’s not what we think, but what He knows.
It’s not what appears to be, but what actually is.

Our God is on His throne and has all things under control. I may not see it all, nor do you, but He is not worried or dismayed.

My friend, keep moving forward. Keep your eyes on Him and He will see you through. The God we worshiped in 2008 is already in 2009, and our God is greater than any problem or situation we will face. So be strong, take courage, and let’s move into 2009 by faith and see what God is going to do.

He is Coming

“But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God; holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; and avoid such men as these.” II Tim. 3:1-5

Every prophesy concerning Christ’s birth, life, and death was perfectly fulfilled. Every promise Jesus made to His disciples or those who believed in Him has been accomplished. Only one remains - His return.

Jesus told His disciples in John 13:36: “Where I go, you cannot follow Me now; but you shall follow me later.” The disciples tried to mentally process what Christ was teaching, but it was difficult. It wasn’t until Jesus appeared to them after His death that they actually began to assimilate His words.

The promised coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost gave a new freedom to the disciples. They were no longer limited by their human perspectives. Instead, they were freed to experience the eternal mind set of God. The Holy Spirit illuminated their minds with a spiritual reality so they could know God’s will an act accordingly.

For the most part, the world in which we live has disregarded God’s commandments as trivial and out of date. The apostle Paul told us this would happen. He also said it would be a sign of Christ’s impending return. As believers, we can take comfort in that He will indeed return to us. Pray that when He comes, He will find you waiting faithfully.

Stay Focused!

“Peter therefore seeing him said to Jesus, ‘Lord, and what about this man?’ Jesus said to him, ‘If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!’” John 21:21-22

It is interesting how Peter dared to question Jesus about John’s life in John 21:21-22.

A sure way to lose the peace of Christ offers is by taking your eyes off Jesus and placing them on the lives of others. This doesn’t mean we should stop caring for those around us. It simply means not to get caught up in keeping up with your neighbor.

Each of us has probably found ourselves wishing we had the blessings God has given someone else. We don’t realize it; but when we do this, we essentially tell God that His care and blessings for us are not good enough.

Anytime we take our eyes of Jesus we run the risk of losing our peace. Anxiety sets in, and we find ourselves tossing and turning in bed at night because we are no longer anchored emotionally to the Prince of Peace.

Jesus gave Peter one command, “You follow Me!” Fix your eyes on Jesus. Commit yourself to focusing only on Him. Learn to thank Him for the many blessings He has provided.

Do this and He will guard your life with His eternal peace.

All of Him

“For in Him all the fulness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete...” Col 2:9-10

Jesus came so He might reveal the Father to mankind. He said: “He who has seen Me has seen the Father...” John 14:9. In our humanity we cannot physically look upon the image of God and survive. Moses could only look upon a veiled likeness of the glory of God. Elijah pulled his cloak over his face as the shechinah glory of God passed by him.

Yet through the Lord Jesus Christ, we can enter the presence of God and thereby learn His ways and become attuned to His voice. Only through Christ can we truly come to know the Father and His love for us.

Warren Wiersbe writes: “Four hundred years before Christ was born, the Greek philosopher Plato wrote, ‘To find out the Father and Maker of all this universe is a hard task, and when we have found Him, to speak of Him to all men is impossible.’ But Plato was wrong! We can know the Father and Maker of the universe, for Jesus Christ revealed Him to us.”

The exciting news is that we don’t have to wait until we die to know the Father or His Son.

He is alive today through the power of His Word and the Holy Spirit who abides in each believer. All of the Father is ours through Jesus Christ who lives within us.

The Key to Spiritual Freedom

“Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish, but to fulfill.” Matthew 5:17

The religious atmosphere of Jesus’ day was tremendously ridged. Jewish leaders were locked into a false, preconceived mind set over what they thought their Messiah should be.

The sad note was that the Jews were so entrapped by religious tradition and the recorded words of Moses they could not bare the thought of Messiah not adhering to every jot and tittle of Jewish custom. Jesus came as the fulfillment of the Law not the fulfillment of tradition. Every prophecy from the Old Testament was fulfilled in Christ.

The Pharisees were both angered and appalled by Christ’s refusal to place “good works” above a humbled heart before God. They were so worried about their outward appearance that they disregarded their spiritual condition.

We are not saved by righteous acts.
It is true, God does call us to act righteously; but the Pharisees and Scribes had made icons out of the Law and Jewish tradition. When Christ came, He commanded the people to worship God, not the traditions of man. He did not abolish Mosaic Law - He completed it.

The key to spiritual freedom is seeking the purity of a relationship with God first and not the approval or praise of others. Only then will Christ’s life be real to you.

Celebrate!

“And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

Merry Christmas!!!

The Greatest Gift

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” II Cor 9:15

Soon after Christ’s birth, a brilliant, new star appeared in the heavenlies. So powerful was its light that it drew three wise men first to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem in search of a king the prophets said would come.

These were men of great knowledge - philosophers, priests, and astronomers. They were also men who believed a mighty deliverer had been born. Only in our loftiest imagination can we speculate what these men felt at their first sight of God’s Son. Perhaps the gifts they offered conveyed the message of their hearts.

The gold placed at His feet denoted kingship. Only royalty and future leaders were honored this way.
Frankincense was given as a sign of His divinity.
Myrrh was representative of His suffering (bitterness) and future death.

These were not thoughtless, cheap gifts. Gifts such as these often represented of a lifetime’s wages. However, they were not the greatest gift of all.

The greatest gift the world has ever known is the gift God gave us through Jesus Christ.

As you celebrate His birth, celebrate His life and lordship. All that Jesus has He offers you as a free gift of love and grace.

A Mission of Love

“...for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11

God’s mission of love began even prior to the Garden of Eden. Before the foundation of the world and throughout time, He has progressively moved toward one goal - restoration of His original relationship with man.

Before they were banished from the garden, Adam and Eve were provided with a covering of animal skins by God. This act was a foreshadowing of Christ’s atonement for sin and provision of righteousness through the cross.

Hundreds of thousands of sacrifices later, the ultimate Sacrifice came in the embodiment of God’s Son. However, by the time of Christ, the sacrificial system was little more than a religious institution based on laws and traditions.

It had lost its original purpose to bring man humbly before God where he could repent and accept atonement for his sins. Much like visiting a local grocery, animals were brought on the temple grounds and carried to the priest for sacrifice.

A mission of love resulted in God sending His only Son to earth.

Only through Jesus Christ are we restored to our rightful place of fellowship. He is our only sacrifice for sin. When your come to Him, come in thanksgiving and knowledge of what His life, sacrificial death, and resurrection mean. It is the mark of a new beginning.

The True Source of Peace

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” Luke 2:14

Christ’s birth did not signal the coming of divine judge or ruler to straighten out man’s physical and social woes. The coming of Jesus Christ meant God had sent His Son as a Savior to a world saturated in pseudo peace.

Ever since 27 B.C., Rome had established its “Pax Romana” or Roman peace. While the world then was free from war, the hearts of the people were in turmoil. Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher, wrote: “While the emperor may give peace from war on land and sea, he is unable to give peace from passion, grief, and envy. He cannot give peace of heart of which man yearns more than even for outward peace.”

Today we, too, can sense the need for peace - not just on the outside but deep within the soul of mankind. The tragic mistake many people make is trying to find peace through material possessions or personal achievements.

However, jobs come and go. Tragedy often strikes without warning. Even the economic climate of our country can change quickly and drastically. Personal awards and achievements reached today will be old news next week.

The only true source of peace is Jesus Christ.

When we receive His life, the richness of His eternal peace is ours to enjoy for a lifetime.

God's Perfect Timing

“But when the fulness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, in order that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” Galatians 4:4-5

All of us have times when we find ourselves waiting on God to answer prayer. For many, the waiting process seems to go on forever.

That is how it was for Israel as the people waited for the coming of the Messiah. Thousands of years passed between man’s fall and Christ’s birth.

Yet when Jesus came, His arrival was precisely on time.

Morally and spiritually, the world into which He was born was bankrupt. Cultic and mysterious religions did little to satisfy the growing hunger for truth.

Christ’s life put an end to man’s restless search. He came to offer an eternal peace that was not based on the world and its desires.

Jesus could have come as a military giant armed with angels and the infinite power of heaven. Instead, He chose to come as a humble baby wrapped in swaddling clothes. His life and servanthood was the perfection of God’s love to redeem mankind.

The reason many missed His coming was that they looked for a Messiah who would exalt them and their nation instead of exalting God.

In your prayers, learn to focus on the ways you can exalt Jesus Christ instead of yourself. Then, even in the waiting process, He will be glorified.

“Christ’s birth at Bethlehem was not an accident; it was an appointment.” – Warren Wiersbe

Celebrate the Love

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Lay aside for a moment all the theological reasons as to why Christ came to earth, His atoning death and our sanctification, and think only of God’s great love for you.

For God so loved...that He sent His Son, Jesus - the Messiah, Immanuel, God with us. Everything from the Garden of Eden to Christ’s post-resurrection appearance to Mary was designed by Love’s hand.

Love motivated Him to appear to a lowly temple widow who had prayed nearly eighty years for His coming. Out of love, God rearranged His speaking schedule so He could meet the Samaritan woman. And it was Love that dined with desperate sinners and estranged tax collectors.

Throughout His earthly life, Jesus found love and truth the most effective tools for ministry. Those that society rejected and cast aside He gathered in His arms. His life was love in action. He was God among them. And he came not to rule and destroy but to save and offer new life to all who come to Him.

The highest goal of love is to let those you love know you love them. Jesus is God’s finest expression of love. As you celebrate His birth, celebrate the love He has for you - unconditional, accepting, long-suffering, and eternal.

The Hope for Humanity

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 6:19-20

The writer of Hebrews tells us the hope we have in Christ is like an immovable anchor to our souls. Warren Wiersbe writes, “Jesus Christ is our eternal refuge. As our High Priest, He will never die (Hebrews 7:23-25); and we have eternal salvation. No avenger can touch us, because He (Christ) has already died and arisen from the dead (Hebrews 6:19).”

Have you come to a place where discouragement meets you at every turn and the temptation to give up pulls at your soul? Jesus knows all you are facing. He is aware of your struggle and promises to meet your every need.

He is your eternal hope and everlasting encourager. When Matthew was still collecting taxes from the Jews, Jesus offered him new life. When the woman was caught in adultery, Jesus restored her and gave her a new beginning. When Peter denied knowing the Son of God, Jesus didn’t deny knowing him.

The hope of humanity is not of this world.

Human rights and political policies will never fulfill the eternal need locked away within each of us. Acceptance, unconditional love, and abiding hope belong only to Jesus Christ. He is our one sure Anchor within the veil of eternal triumph.

A Time for Worship

“Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy...” Luke 2:10

Imagine the wonder of the shepherds as an angel of the Lord appeared before them and said, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy...” V 10.

Multitudes of angels filled the sky giving praise to God. The shepherds left their sheep and went to Bethlehem. And after they had seen Jesus, they went away “glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen...” V 20.

Meeting the Messiah moved their hearts immediately to worship. They angels told them who He was, and they gave Him honor and adoration as the promised King. Is this your response to Jesus as you encounter Him through prayer and His revealed Word?

When you accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, you confess that He is your Sovereign, that His plan and His will take the place of your own. From that moment He begins a beautiful relationship with you that never ends.

You are surrounded by His care and carried by His grace.

His unconditional love fills your heart with thanksgiving and praise and makes you want to know him better and build and intimate relationship.

The joy the shepherds felt the moment they saw Immanuel lying in the manger is yours forever when you make Him your King.

A Moment in Time

“And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” John 1:5

At the right moment in time, Jesus Christ came to earth.

However, the Bible says, “the world did not know Him” John 1:10. Even though the Jews had the words of the prophets and the testimony of Moses, they still didn’t recognize the Savior.

They maintained that Messiah would come to save them from the insubordination of pagan worship and the bondage of Roman rule. He would usher in the kingdom of God on earth, thus reestablishing the twelve tribes of Israel to prominence and power.

But Christ did not come to set the record straight by dealing forcefully with the Romans or pagan Gentiles. His coming was one of identification - to bring God’s truth and presence to a sin-torn society.

There is a moment in time when eternal decisions are made. Have you personally met the Messiah - Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

Jewish leaders of Jesus’ day knew His name, but they did not know Him as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Their pride had blinded them to the truth of God’s redemptive plan. Ask the Lord to give you spiritual eyes as you review your relationship with Him. Do you recognize Him for who He is?

When God Interrupts...

“And Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I am a virgin?’” Luke 1:34

More than likely, Mary’s marriage to Joseph was something her father prayed would happen. Both Joseph and Mary were from King David’s lineage. It was a perfect match, a marriage made in heaven. Therefore, when the announcement came, both families had reason to celebrate and rejoice. But suddenly God interrupted their celebration.

The swiftness of the angel’s descent into Mary’s room left little time for her to prepare for the news he bore. She found favor with God and would give birth to a Son. “‘How can this be?” questioned Mary. “I am a virgin.’” V. 30, 34

The angel’s words hit hard. The thoughts of what her family and friends might say hit even harder. In those tough moments after the angel had left her, Mary had to decide - would she submit to God’s plan? It seemed impossible and certainly frightening.

However, we find her response calm and courageous. Luke records no thought of doubt in Mary’s personal testimony. Instead, she prays: “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38

When God interrupts our lives, it is always for a higher purpose. May you know the glory of His presence as you live for Him each day.

Hold on to this thought -
“When God interrupts your life, it’s because He wants to use you.” -Andy Stanley

Dealing with Disappointment

“...she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her, desired to put her away secretly. But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream...” Matthew 1:18-20

It’s in times of great disappointment that we discover God’s higher purpose for our lives. Joseph found this to be true. Once his engagement to Mary became official, he was faced with the greatest of disappointments.

Their engagement was to be time of preparation for the future, but it was cruelly interrupted when Mary came to him bearing news that seemed impossible and unthinkable. She was pregnant, and he was not the father. His heart felt as though it had been kicked by the strongest force on earth.

What would he do? Later that night he tried to sleep as the voice of an angel saturated his soul. “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for that which has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus...” Matthew 1:20-21

In disappointment Joseph refused to become bitter. And through his obedience, God worked to accomplish a higher purpose.

When disappointment strikes, ask God to show you His purpose for allowing the hurt. Then pray that He will give you the strength and wisdom to continue. Make it a goal to be a reflection of His love and grace on earth.

Heaven- A Customized Place

“In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14:2-3

Do you ever imagine what heaven will be like?

If you are a Christian believer; there will be a special place waiting just for you.

Joe Thompson was a master at his trade. Time and again people would marvel at his talents. Joe’s job was to customize passenger vans. He would take a van with only four wheels and an engine, and craft a beautiful vehicle for its proud owner.

Joe had a real gift of being able to see the potential, while staring at the present. Where others saw only a shell, Joe saw a gleaming, finished customized van. But even greater that - he could build what he envisioned.

That is exactly what Jesus has done for us.
Now read the text once again...

Someone has said that the word ‘prepare’ literally means to customize.
Jesus had taken a shell and is building a place according to your heart’s desire.

It will be perfect. Just for you.

Need a customized job? Joe can help you with your van, but only Jesus can help you with your eternal home.

The Best Gift

“...‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.’” John 3:3

As with any country, there is a legal, right, and perfect way to enter into God’s better Kingdom. In using the figure of the sheepfold, Jesus describes those who try to get in another way, “...he who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber” John 10:1.

There are untold multitudes who are seeking an illegal entry into God’s better country.

For entry into God’s country, heaven, it is an amazing and wonderful thing that God has also chosen birth as the means of entry into His kingdom. And this choice is yours to make. Every person born into this world by natural means, has the option and choice, to become a child of God by spiritual birth into His Kingdom.

For entry into God’s Kingdom, consider His very simple ABC’s. There are no long forms to fill out, no entry fees, no inoculation, no standing in long lines.

Simply:
A - Acknowledge that you are a sinner.
Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”

B - Believe that Christ took your sin upon Himself.
Isaiah 53:6 says, “All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.”

C - Call upon Jesus and receive Him as your personal Savior.
John 1:11-12 says, “He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name.”

Sowing Rotten Seed

“For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability they gave of their own accord, begging us with much entreaty for the favor of participation in the support of the saints.” II Cor 8:3-4

Suppose that, at one of our church potlucks, the cooks prepared a scrumptious feast, but instead of serving it to us - they set the best aside for themselves and served us what we left?

Suppose the pastor’s wife took a new sack of potatoes home for her family, then mashed the old spuds under the sink, the ones with the mold, for the guests?

In far too many ways the church is treating God in much the same way. How often do we set aside the best for ourselves and give God what’s left over?

And if some say, “I always write my tithe check first,” let’s ask them, “What about your service to the Lord? Do you serve Him first before you serve others or yourself?” Let’s ask them, “What about your talents? Does He get the best of your ability and your intellect?”

The church must remember the main point of the “widow’s mite.” Recall that the Lord’s focus wasn’t the amount which was given, it was the heart attitude before, during, and after the act.

Remember when the Lord gave, He gave us His very best. The question, then, is... "Can we do any less?"

You Expected a Reward?

“Now this I say, he who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Cor. 9:6-7

This ancient tale a seer relates:
A man stood at the Pearly Gates. “Friend, come with me,” St. Peter said, and showed him broke crusts of bread, some small cheap coins upon a plate, and old clothes, worn and out of date. “These were the gifts on earth you made to God’s poor, and the tithes you paid.” Then he asked, “Now, what reward were your expecting from the Lord?”

This is the season of giving. Don’t let the media, world, or system steal your joy. Remember that “God so loved...He gave.” Can we do any less?

May God grant us the grace to experience the true meaning of Christmas. Find someone today that you can bless.

Arguing with the Umpire

“Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake.” Romans 13:5

Years ago, there was a major league baseball manager by the name of Leo “the Lip” Durocher. He picked up the nickname from newspaper writers who took notice of his brash and bullying conversations with the umpires. On more than one occasion, the umpire would grow weary of this onslaught and put Leo the Lip in his place - off the field and in the shower. His involvement in the game that day was finished.

What kind of respect do you give the “umpire” in your heart? Do you tend to argue the call, going nose-to-nose with the umpire? How often does God send you to the showers?

Notice the first phrase of Col. 3:15, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts...” Do you let His peace work in your heart?

The Power of Authority

“You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” I John 4:4

Adrian Rogers illustrates the power of authority with this analogy:
A 275-pound defensive tackle exhibits brute force that can be intimidating to most people on or off a playing field. But you know what? A little man in a striped shirt half his size can blow a whistle and order him off the field.

The striped shirt signals his authority, and the football player must recognize it and obey it, or he isn’t allowed in the game.

Jesus has given you a striped shirt and a whistle.

You have Kingdom authority over the power of that terrible creature who bedevils the Earth. It is time that you and I whistle him off the field!

Love in Action

“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” John 14:15

William Temple said, “The way to knowledge of God is by obedience.”

“If you really love me, you won’t just say it; you’ll show it,” a father says to his little girl. More than anything, he wants to see love in action. Words aren’t enough. When his daughter does what he says, especially without being reminded, he knows that she cares, that she wants to please him.

The connection between love and obedience is inseparable. Jesus is very clear about what pleases Him: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Nothing else substitutes for genuine submission to God’s will. Not even the noblest of good works is of any value when it doesn’t comply with God’s established standards revealed in His Word.

King Saul learned this lesson the hard way when he performed a sacrifice that God did not authorize. The prophet Samuel reproached him saying: “Has the Lord as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.” I Samuel 15:22

When Jesus is your Savior, you have a growing hunger to please Him, to live a holy life and express your gratitude by doing what He says. Ask Him to show you His truth. He will satisfy your heart as you seek His ways.

Keep the Faith

“But I have trusted in Thy lovingkindness; My heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation.” Psalm 13:5

He is a thirty-year-old single man who has prayed for years for a godly wife. All of his friends have married, and many have children already. He wonders if God has overlooked him.

A woman tries to encourage her husband. She prays that God will give him a job soon. He’s been unemployed for nearly a year, the bills are piling up, and it is embarrassing trying to explain the situation to friends. She cries quietly and asks, “God, have You forgotten us?”

This was the cry of David’s heart as he fled King Saul. Years ago, when David was a child, God sent Samuel to anoint him the future king. With the Lord’s power, he had several great victories along the way - killing a lion and a bear, defeating Goliath.

But where was God? David felt alone and wanted to collapse with weariness from running. Yet he did not take matters into his own hands, even when he had perfect opportunities to kill Saul.

David trusted God to accomplish His will in His timing. He praised God for His wisdom, saying, “I have trusted in Thy lovingkindness; my heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation” V 5. You are God’s precious child; He will never forsake or neglect you.

The Struggle of Faith

“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” II Timothy 1:7

As your read Numbers, Chapters 13-14, it is definitely a lesson in faith and the tragic consequences of not believing God.

The spies’ report was so negative and discouraging. The Israelites spent the entire night weeping and mourning. The situation seemed hopeless.

Under God’s direction, Moses had led them triumphantly out of Egypt towards their final destination - the Promised Land. But now they were stuck in the desert outside a land filled with menacing giants.

At a critical point in time - the moment of challenge - Israel took their eyes off the Lord and looked only at the obstacles. Because they forgot God’s promise and listened to false information, an entire generation wandered and died in the desert, never even getting a glimpse of the land of milk and honey.

Are you facing a challenge to your faith? Is God calling you to a task that seems unreasonable? Don’t assess the situation by your own limited resources; failure to see things God’s way may cause your to miss His blessing, and others may be hurt. Disobedience is always followed by disappointment and disillusionment.

Remember what God has done for you in the past and trust Him to deal with the impossible. You cannot be defeated when you follow God’s plan in confident faith.

The Anchor of the Soul

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 6:19-20

No ship captain would set sail without an anchor. This heavy piece of metal, specially shaped to dig into the ground and hold tightly, is the primary means of holding the boat firmly in one place. A good anchor keeps the vessel from drifting or foundering.

This is what Paul had in mind when he explained the solid basis of your faith.“This hope in Jesus Christ we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast...” verse 19. No one else guarantees you everlasting life; no one else can carry you through the rough times; no one else can keep you from sinking under trials and ongoing struggles that may blast you from all sides.

Hope is not just a feeling, an emotion that varies depending on the circumstances. Hope is confident expectation of God’s goodness based on His eternal promises in Scripture. “...According to His great mercy [He] has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” I Peter 1:3

Is your life anchored in His uncompromising and unsurpassable love?

Grounded on the one true Rock, you are secure and unshakable in even the fiercest gale.

Stay Focused

“When I pondered to understand this, it was troublesome in my sight until I came into the sanctuary of God; then I perceived their end.” Psalm 73:16-17

God promises in His Word to take care of His people, to protect them and guide their steps. As His child, you have confidence that He works in all circumstances for your good. Romans 8:28

Sometimes, however, it is easy to look at the seemingly favorable lives of those who don’t place their trust in God and feel that their success is unjust. Jealousy and discontent can easily arise.Such is the case as you read the 73rd Psalm.

The psalmist Asaph struggled with these thoughts. When he allowed himself to dwell on the blessings that evil men enjoyed, he was depressed.

“They the wicked are not in trouble as other men; nor are they plagued like mankind. Therefore pride is their necklace...” verses 5-6. They flouted God’s Word openly with arrogance.

Then Asaph took a crucial step: he put his eyes back on the Lord. As long as he focused on the present lot of the ungodly, he was mired in doubt and self-pity. But when he saw unrepentant sinners from God’s perspective, he gained the eternal picture.

“Behold, those who are far for Thee will perish...” Verse 27. You have hope for tomorrow when you cling to this truth: “Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord.” Psalm 31:24

Jesus, Your Rock

“...casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.” I Peter 5:7

Have you ever said, “Don’t worry; I can handle it”? It’s an understandable response in a culture that seems to demand self-sufficiency and self-reliance.

Bills, a sick child, an irritable boss, a social function you don’t want to attend - all these can add stress to your day. As the tension rises, you lose the joy you know you should feel in your relationship with the Lord.

God doesn’t want you to live this way. When He says to cast all your anxiety upon Him, He is saying this: “I’ll take your heartaches. I’ll take your troubles and your torment. I want you to be liberated. I want to live My life in you.” No problem is too big for Him to manage, and no care is too trivial to concern Him.

In John 10:11, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” Jesus is taking care of all the details in your life, from ensuring your safety to providing you clothing and food. In response, God wants you to act as sheep do, depending completely on the shepherd’s supply and tender care.

Are you trusting Him in every circumstance, or do you try to work things out yourself first? (Matthew 6:33) Christ promises to meet every need.

Remember: Anxiety is a subtle thief - it steals the joy God intends for your life.

Renewing the Mind

“...be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is...” Romans 12:2

In his letter to the Romans, Paul addresses believers from diverse backgrounds. Many had been involved in pagan cults. While they had accepted Christ as their Savior, they still fought intense battles within their minds.

Satan’s number one target is our minds. He wants us to think negatively, feel insecure, and run from where God has placed us.

Studies show morality and hope are at an all-time low in our age. But it should be just the opposite for believers. We have everything to live for, not because of who we are, but because of whom we contain - Jesus Christ.

The way you renew your mind is by committing yourself to thinking and viewing life from God’s perspective. More than likely, you will have to ask God to help you make this change. It may also mean cutting off Satan’s access to certain areas of your life. Run a check on all that you read, listen to, and watch on television.

Ask God to show you what needs to go. Anything that conflicts with His truth is Satan’s ploy to side track you. However, the real battle for the mind is fought in the will. God will renew your thinking, but you must be willing. Choose purity over evil - truth over a lie.

Happy Thanksgiving!

“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord with gladness;
Come before Him with joyful singing.
Know that the Lord Himself is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving,
And His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him; bless His name.
For the Lord is good;
His lovingkindness is everlasting,
And His faithfulness to all generations.”
- Psalm 100

May you and yours have a wonderful day, and may His grace and love be yours to share.

A Gift of God

“Even when we were dead in our transgressions, [God] made us alive together with Christ...” Eph 2:5

When Jesus called Levi to join the disciples, He gave him a new name, Matthew, which means “a gift of God.” Not only did Jesus save Matthew’s soul, He gave him a new beginning. He also opened a door of ministry to the former tax collector’s friends and peers.

Matthew immediately threw a gigantic party and invited “a great crowd of tax-gatherers and other people” Luke 5:29. The Pharisees were furious! How dare Jesus associate with such spiritually unclean people? But Jesus answered, “It is not those who are well who need a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” Luke 5:31-32.

However, the icing on the cake was Matthew’s new name. Can you imagine the temple leaders’ frustration? Each time they saw Jesus and the disciples, “gift of God” was right up front with the rest of the group. Once Matthew was a sinner - but now he is a gift dedicated to God.

You too were once dead in your trespasses and sins, but now you are alive in Christ. And just like Matthew, you are a gift of God, a new creation.

Remember that Christ’s love is as strong for you as it was for Matthew.

Keep Moving Forward

“Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.” II Cor 4:16

In his biographical sketch of Abraham Lincoln, Willard Davis writes; “Lincoln had been elected president though not even appearing on the ballot in ten states!”

“Even before arriving in Washington, every mail delivery brought more death threats and ominous warnings. Close friends advised that he resign before taking the oath of office! A plot to assassinate the president elect had been uncovered forcing the last leg of his trip to Washington to be in the dead of night, without family, under heavy guard, and incognito....”

Lincoln refused to stop short of God’s plan. He wrote, “When I went to Gettysburg, and saw the graves of thousands of our soldiers, I then and there consecrated myself to Christ.”

Don’t stop short of God’s plan for your life.

When temptation to quit comes, run to Him in prayer. Ask Him to encourage you as only He can. Then trust Him to lead you victoriously through the difficult times.

Don’t Stop Short

“For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

A few years ago when the fires swept through the San Bernardino mountains, thirty two of our families lost their homes. It was a discouraging time to be sure and yet all seemed to have their eyes focused on what God would do.

In the days following the fire when the families were allowed to go through their homes to see if there was anything they could salvage, one of our families, Mike and Florene Foscolos, in the ashes of what used to be their home found part of a page of scripture. It was from the Bible Mike had received when he was saved. On this singed page was this verse, “For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.”

God was faithful, today, they have a new home and life is moving forward.

God is good. Don’t ever let circumstances get you down - keep moving forward, don’t stop short of God’s plan for you.

Don’t Worry...Be Confident

“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil 1:6

I’m thinking this may be a verse we should all memorize and hold on to in the years ahead. In the midst of everything we could worry about, here is a promise from God.

The promise is simple - when it comes to your life, whatever God has started, He will finish!!!

Believe me when I tell you, that nothing that is going on right now has taken God by surprise. The election, the economy, the world situation, nothing has taken God by surprise.

He is still on His throne and as the Apostle Paul says, “I am confident in this very thing...” (the fact that God loves you and has saved you in His sovereign grace), “that He who began a good work in you,” will - not maybe or most likely, “will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Remember, one plus God is a majority. I have read the last page, we win!!! Now go out and have a great week in Christ.

Created for Good Works

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Eph. 2:10

Many religions stress good works. The Christian faith stands apart from the rest, for good works are not a means to gain salvation, but are the work of God through us.

False religions credit good works to the accounts of the members who perform them. Christianity recognizes that the fruit of righteousness is through Jesus Christ and all is to His honor and glory.

“...having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:11

Apart from Him, “All our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment.” Isaiah 64:6

“...you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” I Peter 2:5

Through Jesus Christ - the only basis on which our good works are acceptable. He is the One Who motivates and enables. The glory is His as we serve.

“...whoever serves, let him do so as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ...” I Peter 4:11

Only when you abide in Him, draw on His strength, rely on His direction, will anything that you do bring Him glory.

“Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” I Cor. 10:31

Be Who You Are

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Paul’s prayers for spiritual growth were recorded and preserved so that you might have a definition of your needs. That you might also pray.

Paul asked God for the Philippian believers, that they would be “...filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:11

What is the fruit of righteousness? Righteousness might well be defined as the opposite of sin. Sin is transgressing God’s laws. Righteousness is living in conformity to God’s revealed will.

God is glorified in and by us when we are consistent - when righteous living becomes our lifestyle. When we walk what we talk! When we do what the Word tells us to.

That is possible only as you exercise your new capacitation or ability from God.

You, as a believer, have that new capacity but you must use it. Ephesians 4:24 is a command to “put on the new self.” - An act of the will.

Psalm 1 contains a description of the righteous person.

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:2

Recognize that Christ is your righteousness. Fill your thoughts with His Word.

Your Identity

“You will know them by their fruits...” Matthew 7:16

Do you know the children’s story about a little pig who loved to wallow in the mud. It was just his dirty little nature. He was a girl’s pet pig and the mess was more than she could tolerate. No matter how often she washed her little pig, he ran back and rolled in the mud.

Finally, a heart transplant was made. The doctor replaced the little pig’s heart with the heart of a lamb (an astounding veterinary feat). From that day on the little pig wanted to remain clean.

The moral to that story is clear. People like to indulge in sin. It is their nature. They are incapable of doing otherwise.

When you believed in Jesus, He gave you a new heart. Your new heart has the capacity to serve God.

“...and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:24

When you believed in Jesus, you were declared righteous before God. But the kind of righteousness Paul requested for the Philippians is not positional righteousness, but practical righteousness.

“Having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:11

Paul calls on believers to live like who they are - people with a new capacity for righteousness.

The Bible says a tree is known by its fruit. What kind of fruit are you producing?

The fruit of righteousness in your life is a glory to God.

True Motivation

“Now after a long time the master of those slaves came and settled accounts with them...‘Well done, good and faithful slave; you were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things, enter into the joy of your master.’” Matthew 25:19, 21

Are you better motivated by the positive or by the negative?

Fear, a negative motivation, is a very powerful one. Sales people are taught to use this to their advantage. “If you buy today you will be guaranteed this price, but I can’t promise we will even have one left tomorrow.”

There is a negative motivation for Christian living.

“And now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming.” 1 John 2:28

Paul’s prayer for the Philippians refers to the day of Christ, a day of judgment. He prays that they will all be sincere and blameless (Philippians 1:10). In a sense this is the negative side of holiness.

The positive side of holiness is in verse 11 “...having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.”

In the day of Christ, all will stand before Him. Christians will not be in danger of condemnation, but will give and account of their lives.

This can sound a bit depressing until you realize that the purpose of this exercise in justice is to bring honor and glory to God.

The deeds of the believer and the unbeliever will testify clearly to the power of Jesus Christ.

Which of these motivations, positive or negative, will you choose to spur you toward service today as you venture for God.

Secure in Him!

“Let us therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16
The philosophy of the unbeliever: “...God has forgotten; He has hidden His face; He will never see it.” Psalm 10:11

But the truth is quite different.“If I say,‘Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, and the light around me will be night,’ even the darkness is not dark to Thee, and the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to Thee.” Psalm 139:11-12

What a relief it is when you understand that God is omniscient. It total darkness He sees everything. Nothing escapes His knowledge. If you are slighted in any way, it does not go unnoticed by your loving heavenly Father Who has said, “I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give to each man according to his ways, according to the results of his deeds.” Jeremiah 17:10

In the mind of God the record is already straight. The injustices you live with will pass. God, Who knows the end from the beginning, will give to each what they deserve.

But, praise God; you, as a believer, will not be judged on the basis of what Jesus has done.

“He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit.” Titus 3:5

You stand secure before an omniscient God. Praise Him!

Come Clean

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9

Remember the question God asked Adam after he and Eve had sinned?

“Where are you?”

God certainly did not lack that information. He was giving Adam the opportunity to “come clean.”

God still waits for us to acknowledge our sin, ask for forgiveness, and turn to a new direction so that we can have fellowship with Him. Considering the omniscience of God, it is comically tragic to think of the way we try to dodge God.

God not only knows what we have done, but He knows the secrets of the heart (Psalm 44:21), those things we have only thought about doing.

How marvelous then that God has such compassion on His children.

“For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust.” Psalm 103:14

Not only does God know where we have gone wrong, but when we confess or acknowledge our sins He faithfully restores our relationship with Him. His omniscience means He has the best possible solution to our problems.

“With Him are wisdom and might; To Him belong counsel and understanding.” Job 12:13

Is there some area in which you need to “come clean” before God?

Thank God now that His knowledge makes running futile...that His counsel is available to you if you only ask.

God’s Unconditional Love

“Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; According to Thy lovingkindness remember Thou me, For Thy goodness' sake, O Lord.” Psalm 25:7

Everyone has something they are not particularly proud of. You are relieved that some things are not public knowledge.

Even if you do not have deep dark secrets, you still would rather everyone did not know your idiosyncrasies or your bad habits. Behind that desire to remain private, is the fear that people would lower their opinion of you if they knew more about you.

It is a joy to realize that God is never surprised by your actions or even the secrets of your heart. Knowing you perfectly, His love for you remains unchanged. To be known and loved is the joy of the believer.

“O Lord, Thou hast searched me and known me. Thou dost know when I sit down and when I rise up; Thou dost understand my thought from afar. Thou dost scrutinize my path and my lying down, And art intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, Thou dost know it all....Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it.” Psalm 139:1-4,6

It is a comfort in difficult times to say to an omniscient, loving God:
“When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Thou didst know my path...” Psalm 142:3

Today, celebrate God’s love and acceptance, for He already has all the facts - and loves you unconditionally.

God’s Perfect Knowledge

“For I, the Lord, do not change...” Malachi 3:6

To say that God is omniscient is to say that He is all knowing.

God has never learned, for He has no need of learning. To suggest that God is deficient in some knowledge is to suggest that there is someone who could be God’s teacher.

You almost detect a dry sense of humor (or is it scorn?) as Isaiah poses this rhetorical question. “Who has directed the Spirit of the Lord, or as His counselor has informed Him? With whom did He consult and who gave Him understanding? And who taught Him in the path of justice and taught Him knowledge, And informed Him of the way of understanding?” Isaiah 40:13-14

God says, “Remember the former things long past, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me, Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, ‘My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure.’” Isaiah 46:9-10

We change plans when we receive new information. He is never informed by another or by new circumstances.

Because God has known the end from the beginning, He does not change.

Today as you meditate on God’s perfect knowledge, rejoice with Paul as he writes: “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33

A Spirit of Forgiveness

“For if you forgive men for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14

Do Christians seem to have more than their share of idiosyncrasies?

Could it be that we expect more from Christians? Whatever the reason, we are exhorted to bear with one another.

“And so, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.” Colossians 3:12-13

Being patient with each other’s weakness becomes possible as you walk in the power of the Holy Spirit. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit.

An honest review of your own weakness and focusing on the patience Jesus Christ has with you will also help you fulfill this command. Paul found it helpful.

“It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. And yet for this reason I found mercy, in order that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience, as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” I Timothy 1:15-16

Do you really want to do the will of God? Bear with the weaknesses of your brothers and sisters in Christ? Maintain a spirit of forgiveness?

“And beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:14

Restoration

“My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth, and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death, and will cover a multitude of sins.” James 5:19-20

Live and let live. But God’s will for Christians is not so permissive.

“Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

This verse is used apart from its context to support the idea of helping others with their deep problems. However, the context requires more.
“Brethren, even if a man is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, lest you too be tempted.” Galatians 6:1

Christians are their brothers’ keepers. If a believer is habitually practicing sin, it is the responsibility of others to restore him - Gently.

The spiritual Christian walks in the Spirit and his life manifests Christlike character (Galatians 5:22-23). Only if you are spiritual are you equipped for the ministry of restoration.

Maybe you have seen someone bungle burden bearing.

Restoration is to be done gently and in humility - as Jesus Christ deals with us. And care must be taken to avoid stumbling into the same trap.

Prepare with prayers.
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” James 5:16

Will you be a restorer?

Why Submit?

“Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you .” James 4:7

Is biblical submission an act of obedience - or an attitude?

Interestingly, those two aspects of submission are practiced separately, but true submission requires both.

Attitude is the key to genuine submission. Jesus is your example (Philippians 2:5-8). To the degree that you experience the mind of Christ, you will be able to submit yourself to the other members of the body of Christ.

Why Submit? -
Because it is God’s command to all believers. Ephesians 5:21
When a group of believers learns to submit one to another, they begin truly to meet each other’s needs.

Because submission unifies the body of believers and it is then that they have a clear testimony to the world.

Because it brings Christ joy!
How well do you take constructive criticism? Most of us need to improve. Before you make this a matter of prayer, it is helpful to understand what the Bible teaches about submission:Husbands: Ephesians 5:25, 28
Wives: Titus 2:3-5
Parents: Ephesians 6:4
Children: Colossians 3:20
Young men: 1 Peter 5:5-6
Elders: 1 Peter 5:2-3
Everyone: 1 Timothy 5:17-20 and 1 Peter 2:13-17

Understanding these and other passages dealing with submission will help you know what God wants in your life.

Remember - Obedience to God always brings His blessing.

A Tool God Can Use

“And be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.” Eph 5:21

‘Submit’ is a buzz word. A word that is often used to solicit emotional response.
And it is often associated with the Scriptures as it relates to marriage. “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.” Eph 5:22

But wives are not the only ones who are given this instruction. Addressing the entire church at Ephesus, Paul says, “...submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” Eph 5:21

To be submissive is not a natural inclination, but an attitude learned from God’s Word, made possible by the Holy Spirit. This is how Paul prefaces the command from mutual submission:
“So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father.” Eph 5:17-20

As the Holy Spirit teaches you this attitude of Christ (submission), you will become a tool God uses to unify the believers with whom you fellowship.

It is when you build up one another and stand united in love that others will be attracted to Jesus Christ.

Disconnect!

“Be still, and know that I am God...” Psalm 46:10

Dr. Anthony Jordan is the Executive Director of Southern Baptist Convention in Oklahoma. I clipped this from his state paper and I’m and passing it on to you. Please listen with your heart.

Some of today’s most important vocabulary words have their root in the word “connect.” Whether by cell phone, computer, or other electronic device, it seems we are always looking for “connectivity.” When successful, the computer tells us that the “connection” has been made, but when we experience “disconnection,” we become highly frustrated. It is as if our world stops. We become isolated, severed, and incapable of communication when we cannot “connect.”

Unfortunately, our constant state of “connectivity” often “disconnects” us from the most important relationships. Keeping our ears, eyes, and fingers in constant motion prevents us from listening, seeing, and touching the most important people in our lives (I speak about this from personal experience). Having a cell phone with text messaging, e-mail, web browser, full contact list, call waiting, and voice mail, being connected with something or someone becomes addictive (it is easy to confess because there are so many like me).

I would propose that, for all of us, electronic “disconnection” is perhaps more important than our ability to “connect.” I would suggest that use of the “off” button on our phones and computers would provide hours of quiet, and the ability to connect with those who matter most.

Connecting with God simply does not happen when we are connected to everyone and everything else. I do a lot of windshield time, and time and again, I have been driving down the road, praying, only to be interrupted by the phone. After answering those calls, I am overwhelmed by a sense of anguish. I think to myself, “I just disrupted my time with the Almighty God of the universe to take a phone call.” Our minds are programmed to connect with these electronic devices. Answering is an automatic reaction.

In the old days, men were chided for bringing home briefcases full of work from the office. Now we don’t just bring home a briefcase - we bring our cell phones and computers. We no longer take our work home - we take it to the ball game, mall, camp-out, hike, concert, and church! Concentration on anything is always one button away from fragmentation.

The problem is not the device, but the owner. Perhaps the word that should be most prominent for us postmoderns is “disconnect.”

Disconnect from all the stuff so you can reconnect with the people you love and with your God.

Turn it off and have a quiet time of Bible reading, reflection, and prayer.
Turn it off and have a conversation with your family.
Turn it off and serve someone uninterrupted.
Turn it off and listen to the sounds of the world around you.
Go ahead. Punch the Button. Just do it!

Genuine Encouragement

“And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.” Hebrews 10:24

How do you encourage your brothers and sisters in Christ?

You expect your close friends to able to encourage and counsel you. And you are blessed if these friends know the Word of God and are spiritually mature.

As a Christian you have the wisdom of God available to you. The truths revealed in the Bible contain genuine comfort. The promise of God’s presence; the promises relating to prayer; the promise of His strength in your weakness - this is encouragement that builds up one another.

The Christians at Thessalonica were deeply distressed over the eternal destiny of those who had died before Jesus’ return. Paul encouraged them not by reviewing what good people their loved ones had been, but by reviewing God’s truth.

Paul explained the sequence of God’s timetable for believers, both living and dead. “Therefore comfort one another with these words.” I Thess 4:13-17

If you want to become a more mature Christian and be able to offer genuine encouragement, you need to be a growing student of God’s Word and his promises.

“...and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25

A True Friend

“A man of many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

Soon after Jack Benny died, George Burns was interviewed on TV. “Jack and I had a wonderful friendship for nearly 55 years,” Burns said. “Jack never walked out on me when I sang a song, and I never walked out on him when he played the violin. We laughed together, we played together, we worked together, we ate together. I suppose that for many of those years we talked every single day.”

I always get nervous when people talk about how many friends they have. Truth is, we have a lot of acquaintances, we know a lot of people, we associate with hundreds, but we really only have a few really close friends.

In fact, if you have more that five really, really close friends, I’m not sure you have any at all! Now don’t get me wrong - I’m not saying relationships are wrong - we should be friendly and know a lot of people, but the truth is - how many of your “friends” really know everything about you? Know your deepest feelings, fears, and thoughts? How many of your “friends” would you trust your life with? ...or know when everyone else has left, they will still be there?

You see, those few are the ones who are your closest friends, and what a blessing it is to have these few who you know you can count on, be yourself around, and feel the freedom of always knowing they have your back.

Thank God for these friends, and ask God to help you to be that kind of friend to them.

The Power of ONE VOTE !

“When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when a wicked man rules, people groan.” Proverbs 29:2

* ONE VOTE made Adolph Hitler head of the Nazi Party in 1933.

* ONE VOTE per neighborhood gave John F. Kennedy victory over Richard Nixon in 1960.

* ONE VOTE decided if Americans would speak English or German in 1776.

* ONE VOTE made Texas a state in 1845.

* ONE VOTE saved Andrew Johnson from impeachment in 1868.

Let nothing stop you.

Your ONE VOTE can change history!

Vote!

Our Need as a Nation

“By the transgression of a land many are its princes, but by a man of understanding and knowledge, so it endures.” Proverbs 28:2

“When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But with wise and knowledgeable leaders, there is stability.” Proverbs 28:2 (NLT)

“Let it be impressed on your mind that God commands you to choose for rulers just men who will rule with the fear of God. The preservation of a republican government depends on the faithful discharge of this duty; if the citizens neglect their duty and place imprincipled men in office, the government will soon be corrupted.” - Noah Webster, author of Webster’s Dictionary

“Posterity! You will never know how much it cost the present generation to preserve your freedom. I hope you will make good use of it.” - John Quincy Adams

“In free governments, the rulers are the servants, and the people their superiors and sovereigns.”
- Benjamin Franklin

“We may look up to Armies for our defense, but virtue is our best security. It is not possible that any state should long remain free, where virtue is not supremely honored.” - Samuel Adams

The right to vote is an honor and privilege.

Don’t take it for granted.

Pray, seek God’s wisdom, and do what is right.

Rights and the Christian

“By the transgression of a land many are its princes, but by a man of understanding and knowledge, so it endures.” Proverbs 28:2

“When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But with wise and knowledgeable leaders, there is stability.” Proverbs 28:2 (NLT)

“Let it be impressed on your mind that God commands you to choose for rulers just men who will rule with the fear of God. The preservation of a republican government depends on the faithful discharge of this duty; if the citizens neglect their duty and place unprincipled men in office, the government will soon be corrupted.” - Noah Webster, author of Webster’s Dictionary

“Posterity! You will never know how much it cost the present generation to preserve your freedom. I hope you will make good use of it.” - John Quincy Adams

“In free governments, the rulers are the servants, and the people their superiors and sovereigns.” - Benjamin Franklin

“We may look up to Armies for our defense, but virtue is our best security. It is not possible that any state should long remain free, where virtue is not supremely honored.” - Samuel Adams

The right to vote is an honor and privilege!
Don’t take it for granted!

Pray, seek God’s wisdom, and do what is right!!!

Six Consequences the Coalition Has Identified If Proposition 8 Fails

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the spirit says to the churches.” Rev 3:22

1. Children in public schools will have to be taught that same-sex marriage is just as good as traditional marriage.
The California Education Code already requires that health education classes instruct children about marriage. (51890)

Therefore, unless Proposition 8 passes, children will be taught that marriage is between any two adults regardless of gender. There will be serious clashes between the secular school system and the right of parents to teach their children their own values and beliefs.

2. Churches may be sued over their tax exempt status if they refuse to allow same-sex marriage ceremonies in their religious buildings open to the public. Ask whether your pastor, priest, minister, bishop, or rabbi is ready to perform such marriages in your chapels and sanctuaries.

3. Religious adoption agencies will be challenged by government agencies to give up their long-held right to place children only in homes with both a mother and a father. Catholic Charities in Boston already closed its doors in Massachusetts because courts legalized same-sex marriage there.

4. Religions that sponsor private schools with married student housing may be required to provide housing for same-sex couples, even if counter to church doctrine, or risk lawsuits over tax exemptions and related benefits.

5. Ministers who preach against same-sex marriages may be sued for hate speech and risk government fines. It already happened in Canada, a country that legalized gay marriage. A recent California court held that municipal employees may not say: “traditional marriage,” or “family values” because, after same-sex marriage case, it is “hate speech.”

6. It will cost you money. This change in the definition of marriage will bring a cascade of lawsuits, including some already lost (e.g. photographers cannot not refuse to photograph gay marriages, doctors cannot now refuse to perform artificial insemination of gays even given other willing doctors). Even if courts eventually find in favor of a defender of traditional marriage (highly improbable given today’s activist judges), think of the money - your money- that will be spent on such legal battles.

And think of all the unintended consequences that we cannot even foresee at this time. Where will it end?

It’s your children, your grandchildren, your money, and your liberties.
Let’s work together to protect them.

What Proposition 8 Entails, Part II

What of the effect on education? Section 51890 of the California Education Code requires teachers to instruct children as early as kindergarten about the legal aspects of marriage. The state’s position that same-sex couples are equivalent to opposite-sex couples will in all likelihood require changes in school instruction to ensure that a homosexual relationship is not treated differently from a heterosexual one. We can anticipate that the princess in a children’s story will be as likely to marry another princess as a prince. Differences between sexes will be minimized or ignored. What confusion will that create in the minds of young boys and girls?

If a parent objects to the teaching of homosexual in the public schools, there is probably little he or she will be able to do about it. A federal district court in Massachusetts has ruled that parents may not prevent an elementary school from teaching their kindergarten and first grade children that homosexuality and same-sex marriage are moral and acceptable, even though contrary to the parents’ sincere religious beliefs, and that the parents are not entitled to notice of any such instruction or to opt their children out of it. That decision has been affirmed by the First District Court of Appeals. Incidentally, in that case a first grade student was required to listen to a teacher read the book King and King, a story of a prince who falls in love with and marries another prince. (Parker v Hurley)

In England, a Catholic school has been prohibited from firing an openly gay headmaster. In Quebec, a Mennonite school was informed by the Ministry of Education that it must conform to the official provincial curriculum, including teaching that homosexuality is an acceptable alternative lifestyle, or be shut down. The Mennonites say they will leave the province. A similar government position can be anticipated here.

A loss of free speech rights is likely. In Canada, the Alberta Human Rights Commission issued a ruling forbidding a Christian pastor from making “disparaging” remarks about homosexuality. Expect the same in California.

Opponents of Proposition 8 says the public to discard the wisdom of centuries by giving official approval to same-sex marriage. But at what price? The mere fact that a practice is old may not make it right but neither does it make it wrong. We have already witnessed the loss of important rights, and recent history suggests that defeat of the proposition will bring others.

Let us hope for the triumph of reason over emotion.
– William T. Garner, Judge of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Retired

“I do the very best I know how, the very best I can, and I mean to keep on doing so until the end.”
– Abraham Lincoln

What Proposition 8 Entails

Genderless Marriage: A Brave New World?
By William T. Garner, Judge of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Retired

It is no exaggeration to suggest that when California voters go to the polls in November to select a new president, they will also decide another issue at least as important. A “yes” vote on Proposition 8 will create a state constitutional amendment allowing marriage only between one man and one woman. A “no” vote will allow same-sex couples to marry.

What is the benefit and what is the harm of recognizing genderless marriage (marriage without a gender requirement)? Aside from being able to call themselves “married,” there appears to be no benefit to same-sex couples that did not exist at the time of the 4-3 California Supreme Court decision of May 15, 2008 legalizing genderless marriage. Section 297.5 of California Family Code already provided that persons who register as “domestic partners shall have the same rights, protections and benefits as married spouses.” However, the harm of official recognition of such relationships as “marriages” may be irreparable.

Although we cannot foretell the future with certainty, if a genderless marriage remains lawful, then so must a polygamous marriage be. The California Supreme Court effectively changed the traditional definition of marriage by holding that an individual must be allowed to establish a marriage with a person of either sex with whom the individual has chosen to share his or her life. If the person chosen is already married to another and all parties agree, in light of the court’s language, how can the state refuse to recognize a three-party marriage, or indeed place any limit on the number of marriage partners? We have recently seen the Texas and elsewhere that there are many people who want such a marriage, and it appears that choice now trumps tradition.

Many personal freedoms, including the free exercise of religion, may well be diminished or lost if the amendment is not adopted. Although the free exercise right is provided in both the U.S. and California Constitutions, because genderless marriage has now been held to be another constitutional right, who can doubt that there are judges who will decide that the marriage right must prevail over the religious one? Consider the following:
In Boston, the Catholic Charities recently closed down its adoption program because the state of Massachusetts insisted that every adoption agency must allow same-sex couples to adopt. Thereafter, an affiliated agency in San Francisco did the same.
A Methodist group in New Jersey lost part of is tax-exempt status because it refused to allow two lesbian couples to use its facility for a civil union ceremony.
In Albuquerque, a wedding photographer was ordered by the states Human Rights Commission to pay $6,637 to the attorney for a gay couple because she declined to photograph the couple’s commitment ceremony. She had explained to them that because of her religious beliefs she photographed only traditional marriages.

Continued tomorrow - - -

Proposition 8

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth.” Eph 6:1-3

All the confusion about Proposition 8, on our California ballot, is because we have allowed the homosexual community to twist the issue.

This is not about rights - it is about morality.

It is God, not government, who established the family. It is God, not government, who established and defined what marriage is to be!

Homosexuality is a choice - you were not born that way. All of us were born in sin, and we all have made bad choices because of it, however, the foundation by which civilization survives is the structure of the family.

Under California law, domestic partners already have the same rights as married spouses.

There is more to this than meets the eye, and if Proposition 8 fails, the flood gates will be opened. We must take a stand; we must say enough is enough!

Passing Proposition 8 will not stop the activists, but it will at least put up a wall. We must pray, act, vote, and cry out to God for His grace. As the family goes - so goes the nation. For our children and grandchildren’s sake, we must pass Proposition 8.

Why Should Christians Vote, Part II

4. Christians should vote because Christ compels us to voice our biblically derived convictions at the ballot box, as well as through the mailbox and atop the soapbox.
“For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men” I Peter 2:15.

As Christians, we should be informed voters, not voting a “party line” or simply in accordance with another’s prescribed agenda. Christians are to look beyond the campaign rhetoric and artful posturing to uncover the genuine policy positions of the candidates.

5. Christians should vote because the innocent, the indigent, and the unborn need a defender.
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8.

We are standing squarely on Scripture when we support candidates who advocate public policy that protects innocent human life, cares for the oppressed, and provides equal justice for the accused.

6. Christians should vote because as we exercise our civic right we have the opportunity to advocate policy positions that signal our faith in the providential care of God.

We exhibit our trust in God as we support candidates whose public policy positions may not directly benefit us but offer relief to others in greater need.
“Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” Col. 3:2.

Our positions on the issues may run counter to the whims of the population at large as we emphasize policies that address the needs of others, placing our own interests subservient to the public good. Since our neighbors may well take notice of our selflessness, we are witnessing to our abiding faith in God.

7. Christians should vote because as we involve ourselves in the electoral and public policy process, we pray for our leaders.

Because Jesus has charged us to carry our faith in to the public square, we bear a necessary obligation to both pray for our leaders and plead for policy that is undergirded by scriptural principles.

“First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” I Tim. 2:1-2.

Why Should Christians Vote?

“Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” Romans 13:1

In 2004 only half of the evangelicals registered to vote, did. This year it is imperative that every Christian, moral person, anyone who has a conscience – VOTE. Why?

Dwayne Hastings gives us seven reasons -
1. Christians should vote because Jesus tells us in the Bible to be a part of the process, not apart from it.

Jesus commands His followers to involve themselves in the culture as “salt” and “light” - bearing the purifying and enlightening force of Scripture - to impact society for good and for God Matt 5:13-16.

Informed Christians base their views, and thus their electoral preferences, on the wisdom they gain from study of God’s Word and prayer. It is a Christian’s obligation to offer up a Bible-based agenda for the common good.

2. Christians should vote because our liberties were secured by the blood of our forbearers in faith early in our nation’s history and have been preserved by the vigilance of brace men and women who time and time again have defended our freedoms.

When we exercise our right to vote, we acknowledge our gratefulness for the sacrifice of those who have gone before us. Contemporary Christians’ lack of involvement in the political process weakens our voice and threatens to erode our right to bring biblically based views into the policy arena. John Adams, our nation’s second president, wrote to his wife Abigail in 1775: “It is Religion and Morality alone which can establish the principles upon which freedom can freely stand. A patriot must be a religious man.”

3. Christians should vote because Jesus urged His followers to render unto Caesar what was Caesar’s Luke 20:19-26.

Voting is means by which all citizens, including Christians, exercise their civic responsibilities under the rights guaranteed in a democracy. In doing so, Christians are acting in obedience to the Lord’s command. While as Americans we do not have an emperor to whom civic homage is due, we do have a Constitution within which is made clear our right to have a participatory republic. For a Christian to sit on his hands during an election is an unconscionable breach of Christ’s command.

Today!

“Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

There are two days in every week about which we should not worry. Two days which should be kept from fear and apprehension...

One of these days is Yesterday, with its mistakes and cares, its faults and blunders, its aches and pains. Yesterday has passed forever beyond our control.

All the money in the world cannot bring back yesterday. We cannot undo a single act we performed; we cannot erase a single word we said. Yesterday is gone.

The other day we should not worry about is Tomorrow, with its possible adversaries, its burdens, its large promise, and poor performance. Tomorrow is also beyond our immediate control.

Tomorrow’s sun will rise, either in splendor or behind a mask of clouds - but it will rise. Until it does, we have no stake in tomorrow, for it is yet unborn.

This leaves only one day - Today. Any man can fight the battles of just one day; it is only when you and I add the burdens of those two awful eternities - Yesterday and Tomorrow, that we break down.

It is not the experience of today that drives men mad - it is remorse or bitterness for something which happened yesterday and the dread of what tomorrow might bring.

Your Legacy

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, and the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.” Proverbs 13:22

Max Jukes lived in New York. He did not believe in Christ or Christian training. He refused to take his children to church even when they asked to go.

He has had 1,026 decedents; 300 were sent to prison for an average term of 13 years; 190 were public prostitutes; 680 were admitted alcoholics. His family thus far has cost the state in excess of $420,000. They have made no contribution to society that is of any benefit.

Jonathan Edwards lived in same state at the same time as Jukes. He loved the Lord and saw that his children were in church every Sunday, and he served the Lord to the best of his ability.

He had 929 descendants; of these 430 were ministers; 86 became university presidents; 75 authored good books; 5 were elected to the United States Congress and 2 to the Senate. One was vice-president of this nation. His family never cost the state one cent, but has contributed immeasurable to the life of plenty in this land today.

How is your influence and what legacy will you leave with your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren?

The Comfort of Wisdom

“But he who listens to me shall live securely, and shall be at ease from the dread of evil.” Proverbs 1:33

He who listens, pays attention, does what he is told to do. Praise the Lord!
You don’t have to suffer calamity, dread, distress, anguish, silence, or eternal death.

You can choose life.

Someone once said, “He is no fool to give up what he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose.”

Let me share with you a truth that I have discovered - the hardest thing to do in the Christian life is to obey God. We want to do our own thing, make our own decisions, go our own way, and still have all of God’s blessings - but that’s not how it works.

However, the easiest thing to do in the Christian life is to obey God. Just as soon as you decide that He is God!

You’re not God, but He is God. I am a servant of the Living God. He is my Master, my Savior, my Hope, my Security, my Lord, and my Friend. My Goal, therefore, should be to glorify Him.

With that decision comes the freedom to be all that He created me to be. I find great comfort in that!

The Condemnation of Wisdom

“Because I called, and you refused; I stretched out my hand, and no one paid attention; And you neglected all my counsel, And did not want my reproof; I will even laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your dread comes, When your dread comes like a storm, And your calamity comes on like a whirlwind, When distress and anguish come on you. Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; They will seek me diligently, but they shall not find me, Because they hated knowledge, And did not choose the fear of the Lord. They would not accept my counsel, They spurned all my reproof. So they shall eat of the fruit of their own way, And be satiated with their own devices. For the waywardness of the naive shall kill them, And the complacency of fools shall destroy them.” Proverbs 1:24-32

This passage is one of the clearest in Scripture of the fact of God’s judgement and the reason for it.
Because -
1. Wisdom called and was refused.
2. Wisdom stretched out her hand and no one paid attention.
3. Wisdom council was neglected.
4. No one wanted wisdom’s reproof.
The Word of God
The Prophets of God
Jesus Christ
His Church
His Principles
His People

They will come -
Calamity V 26
Dread V 26
Distress V 27
Anguish V 27
Silence V 28-30
Death V 31-32

The Council of Wisdom

“Turn to my reproof, Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.” Proverbs 1:23

We looked yesterday at three kinds of individuals that wisdom calls too - the Naive, the Scoffer, and the Fool.

His call is simple - turn to My reproof = repent!

What’s the problem of the Naive, Scoffers, and Fools?
It is sin.

The solution is - “Repent”
Mark 6:12
Luke 13:1-3
Luke 15:7
Acts 2:36-38
Acts 3:16-20

Two things a man needs --
1. The Holy Spirit - to convict and give him the faith.
2. Clear instructions.

Now make this note - It is not God who does not love, care, or call - it is man who refuses to hear, heed, and come.
We will reap what we sow, but it won’t be because God didn’t call us, plead with us, or show us the way out. And what is the result of turning a deaf ear toward God?

The Call of Wisdom

“Wisdom shouts in the street, She lifts her voice in the square; At the head of the noisy streets she cries out; At the entrance of the gates in the city, she utters her sayings: ‘How long, O naive ones, will you love simplicity? And scoffers delight themselves in scoffing, And fools hate knowledge?’” Proverbs 1:20-22

How does wisdom call?
She shouts! It’s a loud warning - It’s a public warning - It’s an authoritative warning.

Where wisdom calls -
In the square.
Head of the noisy streets.
At the entrance of the gates.

Whom does wisdom call -
The Naive - who loves simplicity.
The Scoffer - who delights in scoffing.
The Fool - who hates knowledge.

The Naive (the simple). The class of sinners who’s leading characteristic is the absence of good, rather than the positive activity of evil.

They do not blaspheme God, they just neglect His salvation.
Indifference. They go on - don’t worry about sin, judgement, heaven, or hell. They hear truth, but they just haven’t got time or care to worry about it.

The Scoffer (the resistant). They are not just passive to truth - they resist the truth!

They always have something cute to say, a sneer for the saint, a witty cut for the scripture, but why do they scoff? Because they can’t come into close contact with the Word - it’s their defense against conviction!

The Fool (the God hater). The fool know the truth and hate it.
“The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God,’ they are corrupt, and have committed abominable injustice; there is no one who does good.” Psalm 53:1

We face all three in our culture.

First Step Towards Wisdom

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Prov 9:10

Note what the verse says, “The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” In other words, you can’t have understanding if you don’t know Christ. God’s first step toward wisdom is salvation, followed by submission, obedience, and to be saturated with the Word of God in the power of His Holy Spirit.

The fear of the Lord is the continued awareness that God is watching, evaluating, and judging every one of our motives, words, thoughts, and actions.

The more conscious we are of His presence – the more motivated we are to call upon Him for His power to live the kind of lives He wants us to live.

“How do I grow in the Lord,” you ask ?
1. Be saved - repent and receive Christ into your heart.
2. Be obedient. John 14:15
3. Pray, study and meditate. Psalms 1
4. Praise Him.
5. Trust Him.

You are just as spiritual today as you really want to be.

All that ignore God - are but fools.
You cannot ignore God - and be wise.

The Importance of Wisdom

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:7

The question is, ‘Why is wisdom so important?’
Because. . .
1. Wisdom is the ability to see life from God’s perspective.
2. Wisdom is the ability to use facts and knowledge to come to correct conclusions.
3. Wisdom is seeing how God’s principles are universal and non-optional, and how every civilization and individual has and will succeed or fail in direct relationship to how they follow them.
4. Wisdom gives us the ability to see and understand how human nature is directly opposed to God’s nature.
5. Wisdom is the ability to see how our natural inclinations are directly contrary to God’s principle of life.
For example, look where we are right now in our culture, we have taught our children so long that evolution is a fact, that they no longer see the facts that stand against it. Instead they have believed a lie. Our philosophy is’ eat, drink and be merry for tomorrow we die.’
California Proposition # 8 would never have been on a ballot twenty-five years ago, and yet here we are, about to vote on a definition of marriage that God has already given us.

What America needs right now is a good dose of Holiness.

Why Proverbs?

“To understand a proverb and a figure, The words of the wise and their riddles.” Proverbs 1:6

The Hebrew term for proverb means a comparison.
A proverb is “a way of saying a truth that will stick in your mind.” Sayings that are taken from everyday life, intended to serve as practical guidelines for successful living. They are written so that we will be able to understand what we read as we study through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

So then in these first six verses, we have 15 reasons from the Book of Proverbs –
1. We might know wisdom. V 2
2. We might know discipline. V 2
3. We might discern understanding. V 2
4. To receive instruction in wise behavior. V 3
5. To receive instruction in righteousness. V 3
6. To receive instruction in justice. V 3
7. To receive instruction in equity. V 3
8. To give prudence to the naive. V 4
9. To give youth knowledge. V 4
10. To give youth discretion. V 4
11. To attract the wise man. V 5
12. To increase learning. V 5
13. To help attain understanding and wise counsel. V 5
14. That a man might be able to make known the words of the wise. V 6
15. That He might express and understand riddles. V 6

The Key to Wisdom

“A wise man will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;” Prov 1:5,7

It is a wise man who will hear and acquire wise counsel.
• Will hear intelligently.
• Will multiply.
• Will be able to separate facts and apply them.
• Will build for Himself an orderly life that makes sense.

A Characteristic of Wisdom is the Readiness to Learn.
It is the fool who thinks he already knows, or does not pay attention because he has already heard it before. We’re not talking about intelligence but wisdom.

Wisdom can be ours, but it must be sought out.

II Tim 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth.”

Be diligent = to exert, endeavor, be zealous, to study.

Living Bible - Work hard, so God can say to you, “Well done!” ... be a good workman, one who does not need to be ashamed when God examines your work. KNOW what His Word says and means.

The emphasis is on the word ‘know.’

The Need for Wisdom

“The Proverbs of Solomon the son of David, King of Israel; to know wisdom and instruction, to discern the sayings of understanding. To receive instruction in wise behavior, Righteousness, justice and equity...” Prov 1:1-3

The best way to live is according to the Word of God. The Word of God is given for OUR good and not God’s good or benefit. God loves us and has therefore given us truths to live by, that when obeyed brings us joy and victory in our life.

The greatest wisdom one can show is to walk in God’s wisdom according to God’s Will.

Right now we are living in a culture that seems to be devoid of God’s wisdom, we are being saturated with the worlds wisdom and not God’s truth.

We are a generation that is being brain-washed by the media - and we are being deceived - we are told half-truths and flat out lies, but too many people don’t seem to care or have the ability to know the difference.

We are in desperate need of God’s wisdom. The Book of Proverbs forms a library of instruction for living godly lives. Remember, there are two ways to learn – the hard way or the easy way. Proverbs was given to us so that we wouldn’t have to learn the hard way!