Welcome To The Christian Journeyman!

Welcome To The Christian Journeyman!
A CHRISTIAN TEACHING AND RESOURCE MINISTRY!

Thursday, December 31, 2015

All Roads Lead Home?

While I was growing up, my father often used this quote "All Roads Lead Home." When it comes to our spiritual lives, and our eternal future, it depends on where we will make our home.

Jesus said: “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." (Matthew 7:13-14) 

Why is the road to heaven and eternal peace and joy difficult to travel? The reason is that it takes faith, and commitment, and discipline.
The way that is wide and broad is the way of thoughtlessness and carelessness. A way that involves selfishness and sinful living.
The giving in to our passions and pleasures is an easy walk, but a terrible destination.

In 2016 you have an opportunity to make a choice. Are you happy with the direction your life is going? Even though the way that leads to life abundantly and eternally is difficult, it is certainly worth the effort.
The destination is worth it.

But you have to make not only a choice, but a commitment.
Jesus said in John 14:6 "...I am the Way the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."

I don't know about all roads leading home, but I do know one that does. Will you take it? GP

 Photo ID 5961423 © Penywise | Dreamstime.com

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

As Time Goes By



Here we are again, at the threshold of a brand new year. How are you going to make the most of your brand new year? Or do you want to?

There are many who had it very tough in 2021, they don't even want to think about the new year. The clouds of deep dark despair are still hanging over them. Are you one of them?

 I was so surprised to read the Apostle Paul's words in his letter to the Corinthian church.
"For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life."(1 Corinthians 1:8)

How could this mighty man of faith, who said that "he could do all things through Christ who strengthened him"(Philippians 4:13) be ready to give up on life?

 Every year has its challenges. 2022 will be no different. As time goes by, we will experience the ups and downs of life. If you read on in 2 Corinthians 1:10, Paul maintains this hope, which is our hope today: "...who delivered us from so great a death, does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us."

As time goes by, we learn that we have a deliverer standing by to take care of us, and help all things to work out for us, according to His will. (Romans 8:28) With this promise we can enter 2022 with confidence! GP

 Photo by dan. Published on 29 June 2009 Stock photo - Image ID: 1007128

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

The Priority Of Prayer

"Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. 
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." (James 5:16) 

How valuable is prayer to you? To me prayer is not like a lamp with a genie inside, who will grant three wonderful wishes. Prayer is communication with the God of the universe, who knows our every move.

We pray before meals, we pray before retiring at bedtime, but when has prayer become a constant event in our lives? The Apostle Paul tells us to "Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

With all the trouble that surrounds us, and the trouble that we are dealing with in our personal lives, it is a great comfort to have this line of communication available to us to the "throne of grace" (Hebrews 4:16)

Blessings will come when we take seriously what has been emphasized over and over again: That Prayer, and being in God's Word, will truly help us to deal with the problems of this life.

When we confess our sins to one another, and pray for each other, it has a healing element that is faithful and true.

In this new year, let's make good use of our prayer time. May it not be the least thing that we can do, but may it be the most, and the best thing we can do. It will truly make a difference! GP

 Young Business Man Praying Stock Photo Photo by podpad. Published on 07 November 2011 Stock photo - Image ID: 10063936

Monday, December 28, 2015

To The Other Side

"On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, "Let us cross over to the other side" (Mark 4:35) 

Whether it is the description of our whole life, or a description of one event in our lives. There is a beginning, and an end.
But a lot happens in the middle.

In the case of Jesus and the disciples crossing the sea of Galilee, a great windstorm arose (which was not uncommon) that produced huge waves that beat upon the boat, and was filling it with water. Jesus was sleeping in the stern, not worried at all, at what was happening.
They woke Him up, and said: "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing!" And then Jesus got up and calmed the wind and the sea.

Life is indeed, a collection of storms in our lives. Just when we think all is well, one comes up, that really tests our faith in the Lord. But if the Lord led us to the other side of storms in the past, He will do it again.

Fear can be a crippling emotion. The Lord Jesus does not want us to go there. He wants us to trust Him in those middle experiences of our lives, that are truly a challenge. In 2016, we know that we will face trials. Let's make sure we get into the boat with Jesus, and have confidence that He will take us safely to the other side. GP

 Photo by foto76. Published on 16 May 2015 Stock photo - Image ID: 100326928
www.freedigitalphotos.net

Friday, December 18, 2015

Come To The Stable

"...Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us." (Luke 2:15) 

I have tried to be a shepherd for forty years. Every year in the churches I served, I shared a message about the Christ child, and the reason for His coming into the world. But what is important for a shepherd, is that the message of the birth of the Savior be taken to heart, personally, seriously, and enthusiastically. As I have heard this said: "You cannot lead people to a place you have never been." 

I am a sinner, who needed a Savior. I am a Shepherd who needs guidance from the Chief Shepherd, so that I can guide others, and help them to know the love and power of our Savior Jesus Christ.

 The enemy is working on me everyday. If he can put out my inner fire for the Lord, he will be successful in shutting down my ministry to others.

Yes, I need to go to the stable in my heart; the place where the Christ Child Is, and rekindle my inner desire to live and serve the Savior.

What about you? There is room for all who want to come and worship, and be inspired again.
"O Come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him. O come let us adore Him, Christ, the Lord! " GP

Photo ID 19534324 © Dave Bredeson | Dreamstime.com

Thursday, December 17, 2015

A Light To The Lonely

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10) 

Are you feeling lonely this Christmas season?
Does loneliness enter your heart often? You can be with a large group of people, and feel like the loneliest person on the face of the earth.

I don't want to spend time talking about what contributes to our loneliness, because it varies with every person.
With the many different situations in life, come the many contributions to loneliness.

So what is the answer to loneliness? I believe that what keeps me going in this upside down world I live in, is knowing that God is with me.
As the prophet Isaiah brings out in our text; we can depend upon God's presence, strength, help and support.

When I feel alone, the path of prayer, leads me to feel God's embrace, and His assurance that He is with me in every moment of my life.
With people, the consistency of being close is not sure, but with the Lord, it can, and will always be, a sure experience. The Lord is just a prayer away.

So if you are lonely this Christmas season, remember that the one that Christmas is all about, will always be Immanuel: God With Us! GP

 Photo ID 56814109 © Katarzyna Bialasiewicz | Dreamstime.com

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Lets Keep The Light On

"Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain." (Philippians 2:14-16) 

Many times my wife has turned on the light at the front door of our home, to light the way, when I come in late at night. I have appreciated that. It has been a very welcoming, encouraging site.

This is the way it is to be with us as Christians. We are to "shine as lights in the world", showing the light of life, Jesus Christ, to those around us who are walking without the light of hope in their lives.         By our selfless attitude, our humility, and our love and service to others, we show Jesus in the greatest ways.

There should be no competition among us, no conflict. We are to be "blameless, and harmless children of God," showing a Christian lifestyle in "the midst of a crooked and perverse generation." 

In this dark world of sinfulness, and hopelessness, let's keep the light on. We never know when someone will come up the path to where we are, and want the same thing that we have. A life that is full of peace and hope, lit up by the light of life, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! GP

Photo ID 48680520 © Marimadesign | Dreamstime.com

Monday, December 14, 2015

Closeness

"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." (Galatians 5:13) 

I want to focus on the freedom we have to love one another, and in so doing, satisfy the law of God.

I read this comment this week: "The closer we get to God, the closer we will get to one another" The key word, and the greatest gift (the Apostle Paul tells us) is love.

To me the reason there was the giving of the law, was that man-kind needed a code to guide his heart and life, because of his selfish intentions and motivations. Too much of the time our actions are motivated by our selfishness. If we would constantly think of others, and operate out of love for others, how much different our lives would be. I know, because I am paying the price for my selfishness.

Closeness comes, when love is reciprocated. When we have a mutual love and care for each other, we establish and maintain a closeness that will endure for a life-time.

As we draw near to God this Christmas season, may He help us to draw close to one another.
"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." (Philippians 2:3-4) GP

 Photo ID 18114542 © Ampyang | Dreamstime.com

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

"For God So Loved The World.."

*"Muslims are loved by God in the same way that He loves all people. Like all humans, Muslims are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). Like all humans, Muslims sin and fall short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). Like all humans, God loved them so much that He sent His son, so that those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life (John 3:16)."(*christiananswers.net/q-eden/lovemuslims.html)

I believe that this online statement concerning God's view of those who are apart of the Islamic religion is true. The question for us as Christians is: Do we feel the same way?

No doubt we are fighting a battle against terrorism that has taken place in Africa, Asia, Europe, Russia, and the United States. And those Islamic extremist groups that have committed crimes against humanity, need to be confronted, and brought to justice. (Romans 13:1-4)

Our responsibility as Christians (not only to the people of Islamic persuasion), but to the whole world, is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Not only by what we say, but how we live, and in how we treat others. The world (that includes where we live) needs to see Jesus in us!

If love is the greatest gift (1 Cor.13:13) than love is the greatest force against evil, and the greatest builder of peace and unity. The love of Jesus Christ will change people's lives, and in so doing, change the world. GP

Photo ID 14598832 © Stephen Denness | Dreamstime.com

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Inasmuch

"...Inasmuch, as you did it one of the least of these My brethren, you did to Me." (Matthew 25:40) 

As I sat in a department store, I saw a man who looked as if he was homeless.
I am not sure, but by his appearance, and actions, it seemed that he was.

It was not right to pre-judge this man, but it made me think about the many homeless people we have, in a nation that has so much. On those cold winter nights, where do they go, for shelter and warmth? If not to a homeless shelter, or a mission, the alternative is in a cardboard box, on a park bench with a blanket, or under a bypass, or bridge.

In the church, we come up with a number of new programs, to keep us as a a Christian community, active and productive. But what about this program that Jesus started in Matthew 25:34-40? How are we doing with this?  If this was the main program we pursued, it would indeed keep us busy, and we would feel very fulfilled.

In Matthew 4:23, the Gospel writer tells of what Jesus did when He began His ministry. I would encourage us to read that verse, and ask ourselves, what are we doing to minister to those in need? And in so doing, are we sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ? It will be a two-fold opportunity. To minister to the physical need, and minster to the greatest spiritual need of all; and that is salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord! Again, How are we doing with this? GP

Photo ID 47117937 © Cylonphoto | Dreamstime.com

Monday, December 7, 2015

Our Wonderful Weapon

*"Can you imagine a soldier carefully putting on each piece of armor to protect himself and then going into battle without a weapon? That would be suicidal! While David could go up against Goliath without wearing Saul’s armor, he had to take his weapon! While the other pieces of armor that we have considered were necessary to protect the soldier from the enemy’s attacks, they could not kill the enemy. Only the sword could do that. The soldier without a sword wouldn't last a minute if the enemy got close enough for hand to hand combat. The sword shows us that Satan doesn't just shoot at us from a distance. He also moves in close to kill. To survive and conquer, we must take and be able to use the sword:"...and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God."(Ephesians 6:17) (*Steven J. Cole Bible.org)

[In this day, when there is a strong debate over gun control, and whether people should carry weapons in public, the Bible is clear about the weapon we should carry with us at all times.

In overcoming the attacks of Satan in the wilderness, Jesus used the Word of God in His defense. (Matthew 4:4) It has the ability to penetrate the hearts of people, and bring about a needed change in their lives. (Hebrews 4:12)

To live by the Word of God is our best defense, and for the future, our best security.] GP

Photo by Arvind Balaraman. Published on 12 March 2013 Stock photo - Image ID: 100146182

Friday, December 4, 2015

Never Give Up

"Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!" (Psalm 31:24)

 Last night I watched as my team the Green Bay Packers, in the last seconds of the game, win against the Detroit lions. A long pass into the end-zone, and one of the Packer players caught the ball. They struggled all through the game, but they didn't give up.

That is a shout out to us as Christians, that in every trial, in every crisis, we should never give up, but give the Lord our battle, and let Him, see us through.

There are three things that David tells us in this verse that we can apply to our lives, when we go through challenging times.
 1. Be strong. We must stand steadfast on the principles and promises of God. "All things will work together for good, because we love God, and are called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28) 
2. Take courage. No Christian should ever run away from a trial, or the battle against evil, and all that the devil tries to send our way.
(1 Peter 5:8-9)
3. Wait for the Lord. Some translations say "Hope in the Lord" 
In God's time, and in His way, He will bring us through the storm.
In times of difficulty, let's never put our heads in the sand, but let's put our hearts in the Lord's hands, and trust Him in all things! GP

Photo by vectorolie. Published on 06 March 2015 Stock photo - Image ID: 100313621
www.freedigitalphotos.net

Thursday, December 3, 2015

What About Our Worship?

How would you define "Worship", and how important is it, in your Christian life?
  "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." (Deuteronomy 6:5) 

Our love for God is the heart of our worship. We can be involved in many aspects of Christian ministry and service, and yet, not have a strong feeling of love for God. As there is in this world, selfishness can dominate our motivation for doing a lot of things in the name of Christian service. And it is clear in our lack of interest in praying, reading the Bible, studying the Bible with others, witnessing concerning our faith, and attending church services, that our love for God is just not there.

Can we say that God worships us? His love for us is so sincere, and so deep. If the giving of His only Son, to die on a cruel, humiliating, agonizing cross for our sins, is not demonstration enough of His love and devotion to us, I don't know what is.

In loving God, and worshiping Him, we need to remember that
1) It is not just a Sunday affair, but it is an every moment of our life affair. 2) It is not the attitude of what we will get by loving God, but of what we can give to Him. The Apostle Paul says that our life is to be 
"a living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1). The giving of all that we are, and all that we have, to Him, and for Him. 3) Loving God affects every aspect of our lives. Our Christian growth, our relationships, our work, and service, and much more.

In our Christian walk, loving God, is not the end result of our Christian endeavor; but the main foundation, that affects all that we will become, and all that we will accomplish,on our Christian journey.
I ask you today: Do you love God?

Stock Photo: Love God in the sky ID 22498280 © Salpics32 | Dreamstime.com

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Living & Leading By God's Principles

 "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." (Colossians 3:16-17) 

It's amazing that cars today are equipped with navigational systems and screens to guide people in their travel. In the Christian life, when people go on their own instincts or thoughts, they end up disillusioned and very disappointed.

For us as Christians we must live by the principles of God's Word.
We must do as the Apostle Paul tells his readers in our text. "Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly" It starts there. When we are constantly in God's Word, we can help lead others to a relationship with the Lord, that is such a blessing.

We can teach and admonishing one another by the Word of God, that helps us to be on the right track concerning the issues of our lives. When life becomes a fog, by the challenges of life, God's Word will be that Light to direct our lives, and the lives of others. GP

Photo ID 56004847 © Yong hian Lim | Dreamstime.com