Thankful For Our Thorn

"Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me,"My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." There fore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (2 Corinthians 12:8-10)

The Apostle Paul was suffering from what he called, "a thorn in the flesh" (v.7). What this problem was, is unknown. But it was something that was severe enough that it tormented him. Three times he pleaded with the Lord to take it away. But the Lord's answer to rely upon Him for His strength to endure, is His answer to us today.

The Lord may not always deliver us from specific suffering situations, for reasons we may not understand. But one thing is for certain, we have the Lord's strength to endure whatever it is that comes our way.
In whatever state of suffering, God wraps His arms around us, and helps us to stand.

In the midst of suffering there are those who feel so useless, and feel that there is no value to their lives any longer. The Apostle Paul came to the conclusion that he would boast of his weaknesses, so that the power of Christ might rest on him.(v.10) In essence Paul was saying: "This is not about me, but about the Lord Jesus Christ, and His power and strength for my life".

The question comes: "In our weaknesses, in our limitations, how can we make a difference for the Lord?" When people look at us, and observe our faith, our determination, our confidence, in the midst of trial, what a witness that is! People will see that we have something they need for their lives.

We are not complaining, or carrying with us a negative attitude everywhere we go. But our lips are giving praise, and our lives are being lived out in confidence, and with a vibrant hope.

We will be be strengthened, and the Lord will be glorified, and we will be making more of a difference, than we ever thought possible. GP

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Fury Of A Family

 

Fury Of A Family 

What does "Fury" mean? It means violent, uncontrolled anger, or wild rage. It can also describe the wild or dangerous force of something, like a storm. Additionally, it can refer to a fierce or violent person."

Can families exhibit "fury"? Indeed they can. I have had an anger problem for years. Blowing up over little petty things that frustrated me. Has it affected my family? Yes, it has. They look at you as being like a volcano, that could erupt at any time. And everytime you do, it causes a lot of bitter feelings, that last through the years. 

It really is a form of selfishness, when you don't stop to think about how your anger affects the other members of your family. 

But anger is not the only way that a family can exhibit fury. Selfish expectations, can stir up negative emotions, and bitter feelings. When the other members expect you to accommodate their every whim and wishes. When you don't measure up to what their selfish standards are, you either lash out in anger, or you isolate yourself from the family, saying, "I do not want anything to do with you ever again!" Is that a form of "fury?"

The Bible offers profound insight into the struggles within families, tracing familial discord back to the earliest chapters of Genesis. Cain and Abel, the first siblings, were torn apart by jealousy and unbridled anger (Genesis 4:1–8), setting a precedent for how sin can fracture even the closest bonds. 

James 4:1–2 asks, “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” This reveals that much family conflict stems from internal struggles—pride, envy, selfish ambition—that spill outward. 

Jesus Himself acknowledged that following Him could divide households (Matthew 10:34–36), not because He desired conflict, but because truth often challenges comfort and exposes hidden fractures. Yet Scripture also calls families to reconciliation and peace: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). The fury of families, then, is not new—but neither is the hope for healing through humility, forgiveness, and love.

I am learning to allow the Lord to help me with my anger problem, and my attitude of expectation. Are my emotional outbursts, and unreasonable expectations, doing as James says: "Producing the righteousness of God?" Or are they producing a "family fury" or the fruit of the Spirit, that the apostle Paul mentions in Galatians 5:22-23? GP 

Walking On The Water

 

Walking On The Water 

 "So He said "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" (Matthew 14:29-30) 

 We may not look at living life as like walking on water. But this is more than a miracle here in our text. It's a metaphor for navigating life's uncertainties. When Peter steps out of the boat, he walks on the water towards Jesus, defying natural laws. But the moment he notices the wind and waves, fear overtakes him and he begins to sink. Have your ever been there? 

 As Christians we feel confident in our Christian walk. We feel like every day we are getting closer to knowing Jesus, and having a good solid relationship with Him; and then we look at our trials, we look at the winds of trouble and turmoil, and that's when we become afraid, and sink in our fear and despair. 

 Life often mirrors Peter's experience. We step out in faith, trusting God even when circumstances seem impossible. The storms of life---doubt, anxiety, hardship can distract us from the One who sustains us. Yet, just as Jesus immediately reaches out to save Peter, He is always near, ready to lift us when we falter. 

  A man by the name of Eli, was walking one night beside a lake near his home. He was really struggling with what to do because of his mother's illness. He was drowning in decisions. His job was unstable, along with some other issues as well. He remembered the story of pf Peter, how he stepped out of the boat , eyes locked on Jesus, defying the impossible. Eli whispered, "If Peter could walk on water, maybe I can walk through this." He closed eyes his eyes and imagined the lake as being like his life: unpredictable, deep, and full of unknowns. But then He saw it---not the water, but the hand reaching out. Not the storm, but the voice saying, "Come." The next day, Eli made the call he'd been avoiding. He asked for help. He opened up to some friends. He took one step, then another. The storm didn't vanish, but he wasn't sinking anymore. 

The lesson is clear; keep your eyes on Jesus Christ, not the chaos, and you will find the strength to walk through anything! GP

Realigning Our Relationships

 Realigning Our Relationships 

Our relationship with Jesus Christ is the most important because it anchors our identity, purpose, and eternal destiny in divine love and truth. Through Him, we receive forgiveness, grace, and a restored connection with God, which no earthly achievement or relationship can replace. Jesus offers peace in suffering, hope in uncertainty, and unconditional love that transforms our hearts and lives. He is not just a historical figure or moral teacher—He is the living Savior who walks with us daily, guiding, healing, and empowering us to live with meaning and compassion. In Him, we find the fullness of life both now and forever.

Realigning our relationships begins with our relationship with our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ. If this relationship is solid, it will help our other relationships to be good as well. Realigning relationships through a biblical lens involves embracing principles of reconciliation, forgiveness, love, and humility. Here are some key insights drawn from Scripture:

1. Reconciliation Is a Divine Calling

- 2 Corinthians 5:18 – “God… hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation.”  

  We're called to mend broken relationships just as God reconciled us to Himself through Christ.

- Matthew 5:24 – “First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”  

 Reconciliation is prioritized even above religious rituals.

Jesus prayed in His prayer in John 17, that we as His disciples, His followers, that we be one, as He and the Father are one. the apostle Paul writes to the church at Ephesus, that we are to "endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:3) 

2. Forgiveness Is Foundational

- Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate… forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Forgiveness is not optional—it’s a reflection of divine grace.

- Matthew 6:14 – “If you forgive other people… your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”  

  Our forgiveness of others is tied to our own spiritual renewal.

We must remember at all times, in all our relationships, that we who are in Christ, are a forgiven people. That means that just as Jesus Christ brought about God's forgiveness by His sacrificial death on the cross, that we are to never hesitate to offer forgiveness to those who have harmed us, or have made it difficult for us in our lives. 

3. Practice Love as an Action

- 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 – “Love is patient, love is kind… it is not proud.”  

  Love is the glue that binds relationships—it’s active, sacrificial, and enduring.

- James 3:18 – “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”  

  Love leads to peace, and peace leads to spiritual fruit.

I remember this illustration of love and forgiveness: It is the sweet and appealing fragrance that a flower gives off when it is trampled. The strong natural tendency when we are hurt or harmed by others, is to get even, or to display a cold shoulder, vowing to never have anything to do with that person, or party ever again. But instead of doing what is natural, we must do what is super-natural, and show the love and forgiveness that God demonstrated toward us, through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. 

4. Build Trust and Honesty

- Open dialogue, consistency, and accountability are essential for trust.  

  Scripture encourages us to speak truthfully and listen actively to foster deeper bonds.

- James 1:19-20 "Therefore my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God." 

I am one who has, and at times still have anger issues. Sometimes over the littlest things. But I have learned that anger only makes things worse in the conflicts, and arguments we have with others. It is like pouring gasoline on a fire. 

Solomon writes: "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." 

5. Embrace Humility and Selflessness

- Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition… value others above yourselves.”  

  Realignment often begins with putting others first and letting go of pride.

In the realignment of our relationships, we need to see what our attitude, and position should be in our relationships. Instead of the attitude of selfishness, and pride, there needs to be an attitude of humility, and placing ourselves in the position of servant-hood. To answer the question: How can I be a blessing to those around me? To those in my family, friends in the community, to everyone that we have contact with. When our attitude is right, so will our relationships.  

If you're navigating a strained relationship, these principles offer a road map toward healing. 

Realigning Our Relationships (Study Guide)

How A Congregation Affects A Pastor?

 

How A Congregation Affects A Pastor? 

Looking back on my years as being a pastor, I remember the congregations I served, and the affect they had on me, and my family. With any vocation, or career, there are the ups and downs. It is definitely a people business. And you deal with people who are very supportive, and those who are obstacles to the work and progress of the work, and growth of the church. A congregation can either be a source of strength or strain for a pastor. The Bible speaks to the fact that the healthiest relationships are built on mutual respect, shared burdens, and spiritual unity. When a church embraces its pastor with grace, prayer, and partnership, it reflects the heart of Christ—and the entire body flourishes.The Bible offers rich insights into how a congregation can profoundly affect a pastor—spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. Here are several key themes drawn from Scripture and biblical reflections:

The Pastor as Shepherd: Mutual Responsibility

Acts 20:28 – “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock… to feed the church of God.” 

The role of a pastor is to join with the elders of the church in the work of spiritual oversight. It goes very well when the congregation is receptive and cooperative in responding to that care.  
 Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey them that have the rule over you… that they may do it with joy, and not with grief.” 

A cooperative and respectful congregation brings joy to the pastor’s ministry, while resistance or division can cause deep sorrow.

2. Emotional Impact: Healing and Burden Sharing

Many pastors encounter congregants who are spiritually wounded or skeptical due to past church experiences. This requires patience, empathy, and emotional resilience. The key is involvement in the lives of the family of God. Not in a meddlesome way, but in the sense, that if anyone is in need, we will definitely be there for them! 
Galatians 6:2 – “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” When a congregation supports its pastor—through prayer, encouragement, and shared responsibility—it lightens the emotional and spiritual load. As a pastor, I really appreciated the prayers, and encouragement of the congregation. it means so much to know that your church family is behind you, praying for you, and if you had a need, you knew that they would be there for you! That brings joy! 

3. Shared Ministry: Empowerment and Support

Ephesians 4:11–12 – “And he gave some… pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry.” This passage affirms that pastors are not meant to carry the entire ministry alone. 

A congregation that actively serves and grows in faith strengthens the pastor’s leadership. A healthy congregation recognizes the pastor’s humanity and commits to mutual growth, not unrealistic expectations. As pastors lead out in the ministry of the church, it is such an encouragement to see the members wanting to serve as well, How effective a church will be, when the members are following, and allowing the pastor to train and direct in the ministries that the Lord has called us to do. 

4. Spiritual Encouragement: Prayer and Unity

James 5:14 – “Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him…” Prayer isn’t just for the sick—it’s a vital form of spiritual support for pastors who often face unseen battles. 

A congregation that prays for its pastor fosters spiritual vitality and unity in Christ. Yes, it is encouraged that members, when they are sick, or in need, to come to the church leadership and place themselves under the umbrella of prayer. But just as important, is for the pastor to place himself under that umbrella of prayer as well. 

5. Leadership and Accountability

1 Timothy 3:5 – “For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?” This verse underscores the importance of integrity and balance in a pastor’s life—but also suggests that the congregation must not undermine that balance through unrealistic demands.
I know that churches can have outrageous expectations. You feel like you live in a glass house. A congregation needs to realize that a pastor is human too. He is just as vulnerable to temptations and trials. Instead of expecting perfection, a congregation needs to be an encouraging body of believers, who know that just as they fight their battles with Satan and the world, the pastor is doing the very same thing. Yes, a pastor must lead by example, but for that to happen, the congregation must be by his side to help him do that!  

In summary, these words are so true, that a congregation can make, or break a pastor!

What kind of a congregation are you apart of? I pray that the relationship you have with your pastor, is a solid one. One that is bathed in love and support for the one who has the awesome responsibility of caring for the flock of God! 

How A Congregation Affects A Pastor? (Study Guide)

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How A Pastor Affects A Congregation?

 

How A Pastor Affects A Congregation? 

I remember a pastor friend of mind, who has gone home to be with the Lord, said something to me that I never forgot. He said,"A shepherd does not give birth to sheep, only sheep give birth to sheep." The point he was making to me was that a shepherd's main responsibility, is to take care of the sheep in his fold. Which is a picture of what the main role of a pastor is, in regards to the church. And for a pastor to be effective in the care of his congregation, he must definitely be among the people.   

When a pastor is truly among the people—present, engaged, and relational—it profoundly affects the growth of a congregation. This isn’t just about attendance numbers; it’s about spiritual depth, unity, and transformation. Here’s how Scripture and biblical principles illuminate this dynamic:

1. Shepherding Through Presence

1 Peter 5:2–3 calls pastors to “be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care… being examples to the flock.” A shepherd doesn’t lead from a distance. By walking with the sheep, the pastor builds trust, models Christ-like character, and nurtures spiritual growth. There are pastors that rely on their preaching and teaching of the Word of God. Even though this is the responsibility of every pastor, just as important is the ministry of visitation, and personal encouragement of the Word of God.    It is a statement of the pastor to each member of the congregation, that it's more than just words from the pulpit, but it's his presence and involvement that backs up the words that he shares.   

2. Building Genuine Relationships

When pastors are accessible and relational, they foster a culture of openness and belonging. This reflects Acts 2:44–47, where believers were “together and had everything in common.”      The early church grew because of deep fellowship, not just good preaching. it is important for the members of the congregation to know without a doubt, that their pastor is a close friend, and will celebrate with them in the good times, and comfort them in the bad. When a pastor bonds with his church members, (not just some, but all) it really becomes a very rewarding experience for both the pastor, and the members. 

3. Equipping Through Engagement

Ephesians 4:11–13 teaches that pastors equip the saints for ministry. That equipping happens best through personal interaction—mentoring, listening, and walking alongside people in their daily lives. I heard a professor of a Christian college, talk about how effective it is when a pastor taps his members on the shoulder, and directs them towards a special personal ministry. As a pastor, you have to spend time with the members, to know them personally, in order to help them to be fitted, and framed for their work in the church, and their witness to the world. 

4. Teaching That Connects

A pastor who knows their people can preach with relevance and compassion. 2 Timothy 4:2 urges pastors to “correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” That kind of teaching requires knowing the struggles and joys of the congregation. As a pastor, the more you know the members of your congregation, the more you will be able to share Scripture that will really hit the target as far as meeting their needs. 

5. Guiding Through Crisis

Pastors who are present during grief, conflict, or hardship become spiritual anchors. Acts 20:28 reminds leaders to “keep watch over yourselves and all the flock… Be shepherds of the church of God.” Presence during pain builds spiritual resilience. It is vitally important that pastors are there for the members when they are going through various trials. As a minister of Jesus Christ, in those times of trial, you represent Christ. You are the feet, the voice, the loving arms of Jesus, that will make such a difference in the lives of those who are going through difficulties in the family of God. . 

6. Modeling Servant Leadership

Philippians 2:3–4 and John 13 show Jesus serving His disciples. Pastors who serve humbly—visiting homes, praying with members, joining in community work—model the gospel in action. This inspires others to serve and deepens the church’s witness. A pastor is not to be like a dictator, but is to be like Jesus, who was a servant leader. When  Jesus washed the disciples feet, He showed them an example, of how they were to minister to one another. When a pastor is seen serving, and ministering to the members of his church, every time it speaks to the church, of how we are to follow that example, and be strongly involved in ministering to one another. 

In short, a pastor’s presence among the people is not just pastoral—it’s transformational.          

It turns sermons into conversations, leadership into discipleship, and a congregation into a family. Growth follows naturally when people feel seen, known, and spiritually nurtured.

How A Pastor Affects A Congregation? (Study Guide)

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Family Expectations

"While He was still speaking to the crowds, behold, His mother and brothers were standing outside, seeking to speak to Him. Someone said to Him, “Behold, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside seeking to speak to You.”But Jesus answered the one who was telling Him and said, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” And stretching out His hand toward His disciples, He said, “Behold My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven, he is My brother and sister and mother.” (Matthew 12:46-50) 

From our text, we see where Jesus places his family, in regards to His relationship with the Heavenly Father, and His purpose.

While Jesus was speaking to the people, His family show up, and want to speak to Him. Jesus gave a surprising response in the words of our text. In what He said, is Jesus saying that family is not important? No, but family is not to be more important than our relationship to God. and our ministry for Him.

But the irony of it is, that if we place God as first and foremost in our lives, our family relationships will be better, as well as all, of our relationships. God will show us from His Word, how we are to treat each other, and how we can minister to one another.

The main goal of our lives is to do the will of our Heavenly Father. In many families there are many expectations. And for some, if you don't meet those expectations, you are treated coldly. Some family members will not speak to one another for a long period of time because of this.

The greatest commandments are the expectations of our Heavenly Father. We are to love Him, with all that we have, and we are to love each other unconditionally. Yes, it is a matter of priorities, and a matter of humility and submission.

I know that even when I mess up and do not live up to the expectations of God, that He still loves me, and will not abandon me. We all need to get a grip on what is greatly important and adjust to fulfilling the will of God in all of our lives. GP

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Standing On The Gospel Of Jesus Christ

 Standing On The Gospel Of Jesus Christ 

 "As we have said before, so now I say again, If anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed." (Galatians 1:9) 

 Aaron Tippin recorded a song that said, "You've got to stand for something, or you'll fall for anything." Of all the things we are to stand for, what is the most important of all? The answer, in my opinion, is the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is through the gospel that we are saved from our sins, and it is the gospel that sustains us during trials, when we embrace the hope that it brings us, concerning our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ. 

 The gospel is about all about Jesus Christ, and His life, ministry, His sacrificial death on the cross to pay for our sins, and His resurrection that paved the way for us to have the hope of eternal life. The apostle Paul wrote to the Christians at Galatia, telling them to not accept a distorted gospel. A gospel that says that we must provide works in an effort to keep the law, and to keep certain traditions and practices along with faith in the Lord Jesus for salvation. Paul says in his letter, that the law could not save us, but only point us to a Savior. 

  I like the illustration of meat that is cooked in a crock pot. The meat symbolizes the law, and the fork symbolizes our works, or efforts in keeping the law. When the meat (the law) is so tender, that it slides right off our fork (our works), this illustrates that there is no way that we can perfectly keep the law, traditions, and past practices, to satisfy the righteousness of God. 

 No the only gospel, that we are to stand on, is the gospel that says, that there is no way that we can obtain salvation, accept through the grace of God, and our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It's a gospel that says, that it's not what we can, do, but it is completely what Jesus does for us, and through us. 

 Paul writes to the Christians at Rome, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.(Romans 5:1-2) 

 There are only two things that save us, according to the gospel of Jesus Christ. God grace, and our faith. (Ephesians 2:8). 

 So my question to you today is: Have you responded to the right gospel, the only gospel, and have you surrendered your whole life to the Lord Jesus Christ? When you do, you will find the peace with God, that you so desperately need. Peace, with God, and the peace of God. There is no greater way to be blessed, that to feel the peace, and joy, that only Jesus can provide, even in the midst of trials. GP 

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Standing On The Gospel Of Jesus Christ (Lesson Outline)

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The Choice Of Our Words

"Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things, see how great a forest a little fire kindles." (James 3:5) 

How powerful is a sentence? How powerful is a group of words with the intent to hurt, and to incite conflict for a lifetime?

The line: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is a lie. Words spoken in anger and hate, can cripple a person's inner spirit for a lifetime. How many people have taken the bitterness of spiteful words to their grave?

James brings out in our text, that even though the tongue is a little member, a small organ in the body, it can be used to start a fiery fight that will lead to much destruction. If what we say is intended to be positive criticism, than what we say should be seasoned with love.

 The choice of our words, and the tone of our voice, should carry the intent of our heart. And that is where it all begins. In the intent of our heart. So often the anger we are feeling, leads to the lack of control of our tongue, and we find ourselves saying things, we never meant to say.

James gives us a warning here. To know the impact of our words.
They can cripple, or they can comfort. The choice is ours! GP

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A Somber September Day To Remember

 

  The September 11 attacks (also referred to as September 11, September 11th, or 9/11) were a series of four coordinated terrorist attacks by the Islamic terrorist group al-Qaeda on the United States on the morning of Tuesday, September 11, 2001. The attacks consisted of suicide attacks used to target symbolic U.S. landmarks. (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) 

  The title of Alan Jackson's Song "Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning?)" directs us to remember what happened on this horrific day. I hope that we will stop and say a prayer for the families who lost loved ones that day, and ask God to be with our nation, as we face the reality and challenges of terrorism. "O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more." (Psalm 10:17-18) 

  As Christians, (in light of this day of showing tribute to those who gave their lives on 9/11) let us diligently give our lives, to sharing about Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace; so that our nation and the world will no longer be a place of fear, but a place of peace. GP 

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Encouragement For Our Economy

 

Encouragement For Our Economy 

 "All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need." 

(Acts 2:44-45) 

 Just this weekend, we went shopping at our local Walmart (R) store. 

I could not believe how prices of groceries and general merchandise have gone up. Three times as much as a year or two ago. This blog-post will not be placing blame on what is contributing to this escalation of prices on just about everything. Like a real-estate agent I talked to last week said:"The whole world is high." 

 In the book of acts, we find the early Christians, setting an example, on how to manage their goods, and possessions. During this time, society was highly stratified. A small elite controlled vast wealth, while the majority lived in poverty. Cities were hubs of trade and administration, while rural areas were dominated by agricultural labor, often under harsh conditions. Not an easy time for people at this time. 

 But the early Christians did two things that stand out, in regards to how we today can can contribute to bettering our economy. 

1. Unity

"All the believers were together, and had everything in common." 

Today, so many people, and yes that includes us as Christians, are so independent, and self sufficient. How different it would be, if we as Christians, would join together in coming up with ways to help each other. I believe as time goes on, and times get rougher, we are going to need each other. That time begins now! 

2. Ministry 

"They sold their possessions, to give to anyone who had need." 

Together, they made sure that all the needs of their Christian community was taken care of. 

Today, as housing, rent & utilities, health-care, groceries, insurance, etc. keep going up. How great it would be if we would put our heads together and come up with ways, to help people with these costly needs? I know that to some extent, in some Christian circles, we are doing these things. But if every church, every Christian community would get involved in this endeavor, what a change, what a difference it would make! 

We would most definitely contribute to the welfare of of our economy. GP 

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When Jesus Is First

"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love." 
(Revelation 2:4)

"There is so much good in this church (of Ephesus) that we are surprised to discover they had left (not lost) their first love. 
The honeymoon was over (Jeremiah 2:2)! 
No amount of separation, sacrifice, or service can make up for your lack of love toward the Lord." 
(Warren W. Wiersbe With The Word A Devotional) Commentary P. 847)

Everything that is successful in the Christian life, stems from our love for the Lord. It begins there. And if we love the Lord with all of our heart, no matter what the circumstances are, or the people that we are dealing with, we will obey the Lord in all things.

In the Christian life, there is too much focus on self. We can get really busy on programs and activities, that we forsake our time to fellowship with the Lord, and give Him the worship He deserves.

Or we can constantly complain about our circumstances, and what the Lord has called us to do, that we drag our feet, and become ineffective in our ministry for Him. Putting attention on ourselves instead of loving the Lord, and putting Him first, can have devastating results.

In the Christian life, it does not begin with the work, it begins with a relationship with Jesus Christ. From that mutual loving relationship there will come a most dynamic and effective ministry.

Let's love the Lord First and foremost, and let Him lead the way, to a successful ministry for Him! GP
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Feeling Like We Belong

 

Feeling Like We Belong 

"Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." (Romans 15:7) 

The apostle Paul encourages the Christians at Rome to think of others instead of themselves. As He writes in Romans 15:2 "Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification." 

When you walk into your church building for worship, do you have those who will greet you, visit with you, ask how things are going? Do they ask you how your week went? Do they take an interest in your welfare, both physically or spiritually? If you can say yes to all of these questions, I would say that you would have a strong feeling of belonging to a caring Christian fellowship. 

What happens in a lot of churches, is that certain members (and leadership included) talk and visit with only those people that are important to them. Those people that make them feel important, and have something in common with. In some of the larger churches, it feels like you are attending a concert, or a show, and there is no felt need, to get to know anyone, and establish a long term relationship. 

I believe the answer is found with the involvement of Christian leadership. We are to make sure that all the people feel welcomed when they come in the door of the church building. The pastor, as well as the elders, and church staff, are to make it a priority that an effort be made, to welcome new people, and that time is spent connecting with all the members of the church. 

As Paul says to the Christians at Rome, he says to us: "Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." (Romans 15:7) 

Has Jesus ever excluded you? No, He died for the world, which includes you and I. In the verse John 3:16, instead of the word "World" you can put your name there. And in Matthew 18:20, "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them." 

And when we welcome others to ourselves, we are actually welcoming them to our Lord Jesus Christ. And it's for God's glory, not our own. 

Two questions in closing: Do you feel like you belong in the body of Christ? Do you make an effort to make others feel welcome in the Christian fellowship? This is a huge step in helping your church family have the unity, and stability the Lord wants us to have! GP 

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Let's Go To School

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Proverbs 1:7)

 Where I am, here in Iowa, school started this week. Let's offer a prayer, for all the young people, teachers & staff, who will begin school this week!.

To gain much, in the area of learning, means that there must be a submissive attitude. A submissive attitude, leads to an open mind, and heart. To be willing to take in what you see, and hear, and apply it to one's life, is the beginning of the development of productivity, in one's life.

That's is the way it must be in our spiritual life. As our text says: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." We are not going to mature, in our Christian walk, if we don't first, fear the Lord, and allow Him to teach us, what He wants us be and to do. Spiritual knowledge will not come, if there is a wall of pride, and apathy, standing in the way.

There are many people who feel that they have it all figured out.
They do more talking, then listening. There are those who don't believe God exists, and secondly, if He does, He has nothing to say, to better their lives. Talk about delusions!

The state of our society tells me, we have a lot to learn from God.
And it's time that we go to God's school, and get the instruction we need! GP

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A Lifetime Of Saying "Yes" To Jesus

"For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21)

 As a Christians, how committed are we to Jesus Christ? Where are we in your relationship with Him? What was going through our minds when we surrendered our lives to our Savior?

I am sure that at that moment we felt that we would always be 100% committed to the Lord, and then things happened. Over a period of time, we became distracted with the affairs of the world. We became so preoccupied with certain pursuits in our lives, that the Lord became less of a priority. What we promised to be, and to do, just went by the wayside.

Good intentions? Yes, but not a feeling of fulfillment. Because in this process of time, we never felt that feeling of total satisfaction and contentment. We felt that void in our hearts, that only the Savior could fill.

The Apostle Paul was totally sold out to the Lord Jesus Christ. He went all the way for the Lord, and never hesitated, or became pre-occupied with other things. He kept the faith, and he fought the good fight to the very end. (2 Timothy 4:7) It was a lifetime of saying "Yes" to whatever the Lord wanted with him, and his life.

As Christians, shouldn't we say "Yes" to Jesus, everyday of our lives?
"What He says we will do; Where He sends, we will go, Never fear, only trust and obey." GP

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The Proving - By Beverly Lewis

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