Strength

Often I hear this scripture spoken by Christians at all levels of understanding, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." It's a quote by the apostle Paul and it's found in the book of Philippians chapter 4, verse 13. We like to say the words "I can do all things through Christ." And why wouldn't we? But oftentimes we don't give much thought to the latter part of that statement "WHO STRENGTHENS ME." I think we need to because of how we obtain this strength. There is a method of obtaining and accessing this strength.

The strength Paul spoke about was an inner power that sustained him even while undergoing the most serious physical circumstances (2 Corinthians 11:23-30; 2 Corinthians 12:1-10). Many present-day Christians have neither Paul’s confidence nor the strength of which he spoke. Perhaps it is because we do not know the answer to the question, “How does Christ strengthen us?” Actually there are three biblical sources from which we receive strength from the Lord:
1) The Word of God — Paul tells us that the gospel is not only God’s power to save but that we must continue in that gospel in order to be strengthened by it. To continue in it we must READ IT then ACCEPT AND OBEY what we've read (Romans 1:16; Romans 10:17; Ephesians 3; Colossians 1:1-11; 1 Timothy 4:16; 2 John 1:9).
2) Prayer — It is through the medium of prayer that Christians receive wisdom from above (James 1:5-6; Proverbs 2:1-6), and from that wisdom, receive strength to overcome trials and temptations (Proverbs 2:10-20). Note that we must ask for wisdom “in faith” — the source of that faith is the Scriptures (Romans 10:17).
3) Fellow Christians — Our fellowship with other Christians of like faith provides us the benefit of bearing one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2; Romans 15:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:14), and receiving strength from one another (Hebrews 10:24-25; James 5:16; Numbers 11:1-2).

How does Christ strengthen us? By studying and making application of God’s word, engaging in daily prayer to God, and by giving one another strength and encouragement, we build up a bond between us that will survive even the fiercest of Satan’s assaults (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV; Hebrews 5:12-14; Philippians 1:3-6; Colossians 1:3-6; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3; Romans 16:1-20; 2 Timothy 1:16-18). It's actually that easy. Not only does strength come from reading God's Word, so does faith for "faith comes in hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). Do you lack faith? Then don't put your Bible down because you doubt it's worth, pick it up. Do you lack the strength needed to conquer a vice, turn from temptation, or walk away from sin? Then pick up your Bible and read. The words contained on those pages will begin to clothe you in spiritual armor needed to do battle. Always include daily prayer and fellowship with other Christians who are struggling and learning like you.

If you do these things, then nothing will be too difficult or too hard to overcome. You will be strengthened in His Spirit and might. My closing prayer for you comes from Ephesians 3:16, That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man."
Until next time,
-Pat-

Not Everyone That Calls Jesus Lord Will Be Saved

Many Christians believe this: That everyone who calls or claims Jesus as their Lord is saved. Period. Anyone who 'confesses', no matter what.
I'm telling you Not Everyone That Calls Jesus Their Lord Will Be Saved. Did I really say that? Well, no I didn't. Jesus did! Here are His words, "Not every one that says to Me Lord, Lord (or calls me their Lord) will enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that does the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in your name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, you that work iniquity" (Matthew 7:21-23).
These are perhaps the most frightening Scriptures in the Bible. Jesus is clearly speaking to people who called Him their Lord. These were people who actually performed miracles in His Name, who literally cast out devils in His Name, and who did other wonderful things in and His Name. THESE WERE CHRISTIANS He was addressing, not non-believers! How do I know? A nonbeliever does not have the power to cast out demons because a nonbeliever isn't filled with the Holy Spirit! And you have to be filled with the Holy Spirit to cast out demons because you have no power in and of yourself. It is by the Holy Spirit demons flee not by any human power. Therefore, the people being addressed were Christians and if these Christians were filled with the Holy Spirit how can they not be saved? Let's examine it.

There are a few important things to note! Carefully re-read and absorb Matthew 7:21-23 again. (above)
1. You cannot enter heaven unless you obey him (highlighted above) AND you have to do the will of the Father (again, highlighted above). "Why do you call me lord lord and do not the things I ask?" - those being addressed are DISOBEDIENT- not doing what He asked.
2.) If you work/practice/purposely with intent continue to commit iniquity (sin) He will not allow you into heaven. "Many will say to me on that day, have we not prophesied in thy name and done many great things? I will answer and say, Depart from me, I don't know you, you workers of iniquity" (sin). The word "workers" implies intent. - those being addressed are purposely being DISOBEDIENT- they are, with intent, purposely and continually working sin in their lives.
3.) "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15) This is an admonition. Bottom line, -don't be DISOBEDIENT- don't continue to sin!

It is obvious then, that to enter heaven as a "saved" Christian, there are conditions the Christian must meet other than just saying 'Jesus is my Lord and Savior'. According to the scriptures, those conditions are: You cannot work (continually and purposely practice) iniquity/sin (verse 23), and you have to do the will of the Father (verse 21). To give you an example of inequity, I'll quote the Merriam Webster dictionary. Watch closely at the wording! "The definition of an iniquity is a sin or wrong-doing. An example of an iniquity is someone running into another person with their car on purpose." Notice, ON PURPOSE!! In other words, willful intent. Sadly, there are many Christians who have made an altar call, verbally accepted Jesus as their Lord, but have no intention of changing their habits of sin. They make no effort to allow the Holy Spirit to do His work. Why? Because unfortunately, they love their sin more than the commitment they made (John 3:19). As examples, these would be those which purposely remain in an adulterous relationship KNOWING God condemns that behavior, those who conduct themselves unseemly in a same-sex partnership, those who practice the occult, drunkards, idol worshippers, etc. Read it in Revelation 22:15. None have any inheritance in the Kingdom of God. Open your mind. You cannot HABITUALLY PRACTICE SIN, CONTINUE TO PURPOSELY IGNORE YOUR SINNING, WILLFULLY IGNORE WHAT GOD SAYS TO PLEASURE YOUR FLESH and expect God to open the gates of heaven to you! Christians are flesh like anyone else and yes we fail, we can fall, we can slip, and yes we do occasionally sin BUT WE NO LONGER MAKE A HABIT OF IT. We submit and strive to obey with the help of the Holy Spirit. If we do slip, we immediately ask for forgiveness and are forgiven. Too many Christians believe once they are saved, salvation is a sure thing. NOT SO! (Matthew 7:21-23). Look at the picture in this blog. THAT WAS ME! I was imprisoned by a vice I could not stop or control but I wanted to. After years of trying to do it on my own, I finally in desperation turned to Jesus with a similar prayer like that in the picture. Once I did, my sin was lifted, my desire ceased. JESUS HEALED ME! It takes submission and sincerity and if you have those HE WILL ANSWER! He will heal.

Many religious people and churchgoers will not make it! They will be shocked and dumbfounded when the Lord rejected them "Many are called, few are chosen" (Matthew 24:14). As with those in the Bible example who had spent their lives teaching in Jesus' name and doing many charitable deeds in Jesus' name, they were rejected. How could this happen? What went wrong? They were so sincere and now they're are being told they cannot enter into Heaven. Despite trying to blame the Lord, they will be cast into the Lake of Fire forever. Perhaps the deadliest of all who say Lord Lord are those who have never rested completely in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Jesus plainly tells us why the religious group in Matthew 7:21-23 were not allowed into Heaven, and if you have ears to hear and eyes to see, then please listen to the Holy Scriptures being taught today. "If you love me, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS" -- OBEY-do what He asks. In the case of Matthew 7:21-23, those who call Jesus “Lord” are those who don’t do what God commands. It's very simple actually. Remember what Jesus says about those who follow after Him? Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me (daily deny sin) For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him, the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels. (Luke 9:23-26, NKJV)

You can call Him your Lord all you want. You can have the gift of prophesy or work great miracles, but unless and until you OBEY HIS WILL you cannot and will not enter heaven when you die. Jesus said, "IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS" -- or in other words, OBEY HIM! Many people will attempt to enter through the pearly gates of Heaven but will be refused. Most religious people die with an expectation of God letting them into Heaven, but it doesn't work that way. It really doesn't! You have to enter into Heaven God's way, which is through the door - Jesus Christ, who spoke in John 10:7 "I AM the door of the sheep." He also said in John 10:1, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. Did you understand that? Anyone who attempts to enter into Heaven by human effort (works, sacraments, goodness, religious devotion, etc.) is a THIEF and a ROBBER (because you're trying to get into Heaven without going through the door (Jesus). John 10:9, “I am the door: by Me, if any man enters in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” Jesus was asked if few people are going to Heaven. Jesus replied that MANY will seek to enter into Heaven, but only a few will be allowed. This Scripture passage should frighten MANY people.

Those who follow Jesus must “deny Himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). Those the Lord says He “never knew,” that Jesus calls “workers of iniquity,” are those that were never saved OR HE WOULD HAVE LET THEM IN! They never had a true relationship with the Lord because they never denied themselves (they kept sinning day in and day out), never took up their cross, never followed Christ even though God gifted them with His Spirit when they came to Him to be born again. They only claimed to know Christ! And the most interesting part of Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:21-23 is that these individuals prophesied, cast out demons, and did other wonderful works in Jesus’ name. They did works consistent with someone who has the Holy Spirit’s presence and power in their lives. And yet, despite all their spiritual giftedness, and the work of the Spirit in prophecy, demon possession, and other works, these individuals were never saved. Now THAT my friends is scary! It's time to get right with the Lord. Time is short. If you are struggling to give up some destructive sin in your life, there is still time to repent and turn back to the Lord by asking forgiveness and petitioning the Holy Spirit to work in you to overcome desires that are harming you and your relationship with God. Do it today. You won't be sorry.
Until next time,
-Pat-

Why God Allows Us To Go Through Bad Things

Look closely at the title of this blog ... "Why God Allows Us To Go Through Bad Things." The operative word here is ALLOW(S). Have you ever murmured to yourself why you believe God not only put you through a particularly tragic situation but that He's the one that authored it? Do you honestly believe God is the source of the hardships, failures, and or catastrophes in your life? Do you think He's being unfair to put you through that? I'm assuming then you might also believe God "did it" to you? Maybe you've never asked why our world is infected with pain and suffering, but my guess is you will when they strike you or a loved one with full force. It's important to realize that though God MAY ALLOW a tragedy to take place in our lives without intervening, He is never the author of that tragedy! God is not the creator of evil and suffering. He will never set up traps to hurt or bring misery upon us. Take the example of Job who lost all of his animals, all of his servants, every sons and daughter were killed, and he was afflicted with sores all over his body, etc. but not once did he blame God or lose faith. The Bible tells us the author of all of Job's woes was Satan. In fact, Satan came to God for permission to bring misery upon Job. Satan told God that if he could do these things to Job, Job would curse God. God disagreed. To prove the righteousness of Job, God ALLOWED Satan to "test" Job. I say 'test' because we can be tested in like manner as well. Do you ever question why you are or have suffered a long-term illness, suffered over the loss of a child, lost all your material goods in a house fire, or have seen your loved one murdered? ALL THESE THINGS CAN BE A TEST by Satan to see if we will stand with God to the end. Believe it or not, all these things, all these tests, can serve a great purpose.

Though suffering isn't good, God can use it to accomplish good. In Romans 8:28 the Bible promises, "All things work together for good to them that love God, to them that are called according to His purpose." Notice the verse never mentions God causes evil and suffering, just that He promises to cause good to emerge TO THOSE THAT LOVE HIM. Neither does the verse say we will see this good (outcome) immediately or even in this life how God will cause good to emerge from a bad circumstance. Maybe something we've suffered or are suffering has influenced a complete stranger and will be used to change that person after we have left this earth. Remember, we only see things dimly in this world (1 Corinthians 13:12). We don't know all things as God does! Important to keep in mind is, God doesn't make this promise to everyone. He makes the solemn pledge that He will take the bad circumstances that befall us and cause good to emerge if we're committed to following Him. Some might say, "No, He can't bring good out of my circumstance. The harm was too great, the damage was too extreme, the depth of my suffering has been too much." If you doubt God's promise, know that He took the very worst thing that has ever happened in the history of mankind - dying on the cross - and turned it into the very best thing that has happened in the history of the universe! Which was the opening up of heaven to all who follow Him! If God can take the very worst circumstance imaginable and turn it into the very best situation possible, can He not take the negative circumstances of your life and create something good from them?

God isn't some distant, detached, and disinterested deity; He entered into our world - the body of Jesus - and personally experienced our pain on all levels. Jesus is absolutely there in the lowest places of our lives. Are you broken? He was broken, like bread, for us. Are you despised? He was despised and rejected of men. Do you cry out that you can't take any more? He was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. Did someone betray you? He was sold out. Are your most tender relationships broken? He loved and He was rejected. Did people turn from you? They hid their faces from Him as if he were a leper. Does He descend into all of our hells? Yes, He does. Every tear we shed becomes His tear. Listen closely ... every tragedy, every disappointment, every heartache, every disaster or drama we face are all "ingredients" God can use and does use to work out for our own good through growth, maturity, and change. When we've gone through it all, we rise to a better place and a better person. From glory to glory we learn, mature, and change to be more like Him in thought, word, and actions.

Consider this illustration to better understand how "bad things" can actually be good things for us. Grandma was baking her grandson a cake. She asked her grandson if he would like a piece of the cake after it was finished, and of course, he did. She then replied, “Here, have some cooking oil.” “Yuck,” said her grandson. “How about a couple of raw eggs then?” “Gross, Grandma!” “Would you like some flour then — or maybe some baking soda?” Her grandson replied, “Grandma, these things are all yucky!” The Grandma replied, “Yes, all these things seem bad in and of themselves. But when they are put together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake.” God works in exactly the same way! He knows that when He considers the things we've been through and puts all of them in His order, they always work together for good! (Romans 8:28). Rejoice then, that we can be a part of the finished product! (Hebrews 12:1-10; Psalm 119:75).
Until next time,
-Pat-

A Lesson To Learn

Once in a dense forest, a big bear broke into a cabin of some hunters. They were out at the time but had left a fire in a pot-bellied stove. The bear saw the red hot stove and figured it was an enemy, so he ran over and put a bear hug on it. Naturally, he was severely burned, but Mr. Bear thought the enemy was trying to fight back, so he squeezed a lot harder and was burned even more. The more he squeezed the more he was burned. What a vicious circle for a vicious bear to be in!

There is a lesson we can learn. There are many people who would say, “What a dumb animal to hug something to his own hurt!” But it might be they are doing the same thing. How many Christians are there who hug worldliness themselves (lying, pornography, adultery, wearing immodest apparel, excessive drinking, etc.) and refuse to part with it? Let someone warn them of the danger and they will hug it all the more. As someone once said to me when pointing out her flaunting fornication, "No one is going to tell me what to do!" First of all, I was not telling her what choice to make with her life, rather, I was sharing what GOD HAS SAID regarding the consequences of her choice ...her 'refusing to let go of a hot stove.'


It's so disheartening to see many 'Christians' who confess they follow Jesus but cannot bear to part the sin of worldliness, and yet they cannot be saved while holding on to it (1 John 2:15-17). They either don't understand or don't care how frightening that is. Christians often profess a desire to go to heaven, but all the while they hang to those very things that will prevent them from going! Have you ever wondered why some people won't let go of the very things that are destroying them? Paul, in the book of Hebrews, wrote, “Wherefore seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily beset us and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). Paul was exhorting to put aside the sin that overruns us. As believers in Christ, we cannot purposely continue to sin. I said purposely with intent. Paul also wrote, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. For you are dead, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:1-3). Our "desires" (and priorities) should now be set on seeking things above and not how to satisfy sinful desires.

What would make a person want to “gamble” on the eternal home of his (or her) soul (Matthew 16:24-26)? Yet, they do. As Christians, we ought to “let go” of anything that has the potential for hindering our being in heaven. I want to make this point ... Now that Christ is living within you, you will begin to hear Him speaking to you in gentle, flowing thoughts that are not your own. Deep within you will hear a voice saying, “This is the way; walk in it” (Isa.30:21). He will begin to guide your steps into a life that not only pleases Him but that fills you with love, joy, and peace that passes all understanding. And He will reveal more of His great love for you and His desire to spend time together with you. One of the things God will speak about is removing sinful thoughts and behaviors from your life because they are destructive to you. Please hear this! Sins destroy your relationships and the fulfillment of His destiny for you. This is considered the outworking of your initial salvation experience (Phil. 2:12).... to work out your own salvation. What does that mean?? It is the laying down of your life, dying to self and coming progressively alive to the workings of the Holy Spirit within you. His design is for the Spirit’s power to flow out through you to others. You will discover that you can cease from willful, rebellious sinning. You can and will manifest the Holy Spirit who is living within you (1 Cor. 12:7-11). I'm addressing all Christians. Get to work allowing God the opportunity to remove these pebbles (sins) within you which can hinder His flow out through you and impede the fulfillment of His destiny for your life. The removing of these sins is one of the pieces of evidence that you are His and His Spirit indwells you (Rom. 8:9-14; 2 Cor. 3:18; Gal. 5:16-25; Eph. 4:22-32; 1 Jn. 1:5-10; 2 Pet. 1:2-11).
I pray you'll consider what I have written in this blog and work together with God to let go of the sins that so easily beset you because again, the overcoming of sins is one of the pieces of evidence that you are His and His Spirit dwells in you.
Until next time,
-Pat-

Did Jesus Really Refer To Peter As Satan?

When you read the exchange between Jesus and Peter recorded in Matthew 16: 13-20, you might ask your self, "Did Jesus just call Peter, Satan? How could He do that? Why would He do that?" Here is that exchange from the NKJV): “From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day. Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, ‘Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!’ But He turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men" Matthew 16:21-23 – NKJV).
At first reading, we might think that Jesus’ reply to Peter seems harsh. After all, Peter loved and revered Jesus — he had plainly confessed his faith in Jesus as the Christ. So what on earth would prompt Jesus to address Peter in such a manner? Let's examine it. The very idea that someone would harm Jesus, much less kill Him, was unthinkable to Peter. He was willing to take up arms (John 18:10) and even sacrifice his own life (Matthew 26:35) to prevent any aggression against the Son of God. Most of us would be delighted to have someone as concerned for our well-being. Why then does Jesus scold Peter so sharply, calling him “an offense,” even referring to the apostle metaphorically as “Satan”? (Matthew 16:23 – NKJV). I think to answer this question, we should carefully observe the latter part of Jesus’ rebuke which reads:
“You are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”
Notice that Jesus did not deny Peter’s love for Him, but He recognized that love, to a certain degree, was a selfish one. After listening to the teachings of Jesus for three years, one would think that Peter would have understood God’s plan and purpose in sending His Son, requiring His death as a sacrifice for the sins of others. Even if that fact were not entirely clear to the apostle, something else should have been — if the Lord said something had to happen in order for His will to be accomplished — that was exactly the way it had to happen (Isaiah 55:10-11 – NKJV). There could be no room for argument, compromise, or second-guessing. There’s no question that Peter believed in Jesus’ mission (Matthew 10:5-6 – NKJV; Matthew 15:24; Matthew 18:11; Luke 19:10), but he wanted to see that mission accomplished on terms suitable to him. He desired salvation, but he didn’t want Jesus to suffer and die to make that salvation possible — even if God said it was necessary (Hebrews 10:5-10 – NKJV; Psalm 40:6-8 – NKJV; Matthew 26:39 – NKJV; John 4:34 – NKJV; John 5:30 – NKJV; John 6:38 – NKJV). Peter’s motivation to preserve the life of the Lord he so loved, would seem noble in our eyes. However, Jesus wanted him to understand that no motive is noble if it conflicts with God’s divine plan!

In today’s so-called religious world, we see people who are mindful of the things of men rather than of God. Their motives often appear worthwhile because they say they do not want anyone to be lost. However, they tell folks their sins are forgiven and their souls saved when they have not obeyed God’s commands of repentance and baptism (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21). Focusing only on the happiness of people, they offer them worldly diversions, even though these things are not according to God’s will (Colossians 2:18-23 – NKJV). Sadly, they want people to attend church services, so they make worship an attractive spectacle instead of humble obedience to the Lord (John 4:24 – NKJV; 1 Corinthians 10:31 – NKJV; Colossians 3:16-17 – NKJV; Micah 6:8 – NKJV; 1 Samuel 15:22 – NKJV). They don’t want to offend anyone, so they permit all kinds of anti-biblical precepts under the misconception of "inclusion" or "diversity" such as same-sex marriage and justify those who unrepentantly engage in immorality (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21).

Jesus’ words to Peter prove that even the most sincere individual can be sincerely wrong when that sincerity is not fully subject to God’s will. Peter’s love for Jesus could not be permitted to supersede the Father’s righteous plan for mankind’s salvation ( 1 Corinthians 2:7-8 – NKJV). We would be wise to learn from Peter’s error, and remember that God’s work can only be done God’s way (Matthew 7:21-23), unless He says to us, “Get behind Me, Satan!” (Matthew 16:23 – NKJV). At the moment of Peter's rebuke, his objective was a selfish one by rejecting what God wanted for what he wanted, his will over God's will. Peter's spirit was not acting in line with the spirit of Christ. God’s will in our lives is at the heart and core of what it means to be a true Christian! In this self-absorbed society, it is all too easy to make decisions according to “our own will.” Even some in God’s Church today rarely consider whether their will, desires, and perspectives fail to reflect God’s will. Because of the subtle nature of the Satan-influenced society around us, even God’s people may sometimes be deceived into thinking that their carnal will, desires, and perspectives—unchallenged by people around them—may fully reflect God’s will. They may even be disappointed at the idea that God’s will would direct them to go against society’s expectations.

We must recognize how very important it is to live our lives according to God’s will. As we identify and rid ourselves of self-will and as we pray for God’s will to permeate our lives, our decisions will be full of wisdom and our lives will be greatly enriched. To be in God’s kingdom, we must truly strive to make His will our own. We must work hard, continue to bury our self-will and follow God’s lead into His Kingdom. As we do this, we will arrive there one day soon, together! Above all things, we must do God’s will, always!

Until next time,
-Pat-

Building Your House

We know Jesus taught that the foundation upon which we build our spiritual house is of the utmost importance. It never hurts to be reminded of certain passages regarding this. So. that said, I want to point out some elements of Matthews's passage from his 7th chapter, verses 24-27. I'll begin with this. Jesus is speaking: "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it didn't fall: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that hears these sayings of mine, and doesn't do them, will be like a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell: and great was the fall of it." There are some interesting things to note. First, look at the comparison of characteristics of the two builders.

1) BOTH HEARD THE WORDS OF JESUS- The two people in this parable both heard Jesus share His message of faith and repentance (verse 24,26). Therefore, based on that both people in this parable knew the way of salvation. They both heard the Gospel and each one had a reaction to it.
2) BOTH BUILT HOUSES- Each person built a house based on their understanding of what Jesus said. The house in this parable is a picture of our spiritual life. Depending on how each heard/interpreted Jesus' words, each one then applied Jesus' words as they saw fit.
3) BOTH BUILT IN THE SAME LOCATION- Verse 27 describes a very severe storm. This same storm affected both houses, so they must have been built in close proximity to one another!
4) BOTH BUILT SIMILAR HOUSES- Nothing is said about their houses being different. They used similar materials and most likely a similar design.

Have you ever lived in a neighborhood where all the houses look exactly the same? The only difference is the color of the siding, shutters or shingles, yet they have the same shape, design, floor plan, and square footage? The only difference Jesus mentions in these verses is the foundation each man built upon. If looked at closely, the parable is a picture of people and how they respond differently to the Gospel message! People hear that same message and yet can and do react to it in different ways. Regardless of how a person may react to it, people build all their lives based on what they think Jesus is saying. These people all build their houses in the same location. That is, they weather the same storm, work the same jobs, do the same things, go to the same churches, hear the same preaching, and live very similar lives. From the 'outside' you can't tell much difference between the two hearers! Obviously, the people pictured here are religious, orthodox in their beliefs, serving in and supporting the church. They have a lot in common, at least on the outside.


Are there any contracts? There are some major differences between these two types of people and I believe it's worth noting. ONE MAN BUILT HIS HOUSE ON SAND- This man built with little preparation (or he would not have chosen sand as a foundation). Sand is unstable, ever-changing, ever-moving, without stability. It can never provide a firm foundation. Building your spiritual house on sand speaks of people who hear the Gospel, but instead of believing it and coming to faith in Jesus, they believe they can build their lives on the shifting sands of human philosophy, wisdom, opinion, and religious achievement. They are driven by outward, religious appearances and faith in themselves, rather than faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. They are people who hear the Gospel and decide they can save themselves. They might even believe the general message of the Gospel but choose to follow God on their own terms. To them, His Word is open to interpretation and worse yet, change when it needs to align with their convictions! If God commands them to do something, they will obey "if" they choose to. If they don't like it, they won't do it. This is where self-interpretation and change come in. Sadly, their houses are built on self-will, self-fulfillment, self-satisfaction, and self-righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:5 says it best, "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." Their works are based on religion that has the appearance of being right, but lacks the power to save the soul! Too, think of it ... building on sand is easier. It requires little effort. Just a little change here, maybe slightly there, but not too much or it becomes an inconvenience. They fool themselves and everyone else around them into thinking they are right with the Lord. The bottom line is, a spiritual life built on sand requires no commitment, no sacrifice, and no faith whatsoever. Sand builders like instant results without the commitment. They love the heights but hate the depths, are hot then cold, up then down. Sand foundations are built by those who believe they can say a prayer, sign a card, join a church, and all will be well.


THE OTHER MAN BUILT IS HOUSE ON A ROCK- This man digs deep, deep enough until he reached the bedrock. Rock doesn't move. It is unchanging, stable, and sure. Building on rock speaks of people who hear the Gospel and believe it to the point that they build their lives on it! The word "rock' in these verses is identified as "These words of mine." The "rock" IS the Gospel. It's the same rock mentioned in Matthew 16: 16-18 (you might want to look that up). Rock builders understand that Jesus alone has the power to save their souls. They hear the Word and conform their lives to it. They believe it, embrace it, yield to it and the messages change their lives because their foundation is sure. You know you've built your spiritual life upon The Rock when you do what God asks in His Word. What God warns you not to do, you avoid. You will pay any price, walk any path, or do anything the Lord tells you to do. You love Him, honor Him, and obey Him (John 14:15, 1 John 2:3-6). So understandably, there are two types of builders who construct very different lives based on how they hear and respond to the Gospel. Truthfully, YOU are building one of those houses right now.



You can join a church and still go to hell. You can be baptized in water and still go to hell. You can be a good person in the eyes of others and still go to hell. You can build your house on religion and still go to hell. You can build your house on atheism, human wisdom, human philosophies, and anything else you can name, and you will still die and go to hell. But if you build your life on faith in Jesus Christ, The Rock, your house will stand through the storms of life and you will be saved. You realize that the person who built his house on the sand never intended for his house to fall. He THOUGHT he was doing the right thing as so many others do. He thought he was building a house that would stand against anything that came. He was wrong. His confidence was not in the Lord; it was in himself. His confidence was misplaced. The problem with his house is the foundation! So if you are building your spiritual house on anything but Jesus Christ and His gospel, it will fall. When it falls, you will be lost forever, and you will spend your eternity in the fires of hell. Think of your spiritual life. Every day you attach boards, drive nails, add on rooms, and try to improve your house. Regardless of what you do to the house you are building, what matters the most is the foundation. Be absolutely sure you are building on Jesus Christ and the Gospel. If you have realized today, or know of someone in your family or circle of friends that has been building on the wrong foundation, you or they can change that today by turning to Jesus Christ. There is a storm coming that's going to shake foundations everywhere, and your house is right in its path. When that storm comes, the only houses that will stand are those built on the solid foundation of the Word of God.
Until next time,
-Pat-

'Of The Spirit" vs Spirituality

Have you ever talked to someone you know about your own faith and belief in the Bible, to then have them respond something like, "Oh, I don't believe in religion but I am spiritual." What does that mean exactly, "I am spiritual." I think it is a non-biblical viewpoint people embrace who don't want "religion" in their lives, but they still want to believe and hope they have enough good about themselves to get to heaven. Look at this definition of spiritual: Being a spiritual person is synonymous with being a person whose highest priority is to be loving to yourself and others. A spiritual person cares about people, animals and the planet. A spiritual person knows that we are all One, and consciously attempts to honor this Oneness. A spiritual person is a kind person. Notice the highest priority was to self? Is there a difference between religion and being spiritual? Google notes that religion is a set of texts, practices, and beliefs about the transcendent shared by a community, and involves a relationship with God. Spirituality, on the other hand, is about a person's relationship with the transcendent questions that confront one as a human being. This may or may not involve relationships with God.

The truth is, "religion" and "spirituality" are not the same as, not even close to, being of the Spirit the New Testament addresses. Several years ago I knew a lady, a former employee, a very kind, benevolent woman, that said she believed there was a God, was convinced she was going to heaven but did not believe she needed Jesus to arrive at her eternal bliss (as a reminder to the reader: Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.") She, like so many including Oprah Winfrey, believes there are many ways or paths to God and define their "spirituality" as such.

Today I want us to think of the word “spiritual." What is it to you? I can tell you what it is not. It’s not something you “get”; it is not some kind of faucet that one turns on, and then turns off. Biblically, it has to do with being “of the Spirit” in the New Testament application. It is one who is “of the Spirit” in that, he or she abides by the instructions given from the Spirit in the Word of God (2 Peter 1:21). The faithful child of God is “of the Spirit” in that he or she has obeyed the gospel – that instrument God uses to call a man from sin and darkness and unto Himself (2 Thessalonians 2:14). We can choose to walk according to the flesh or according to the Spirit. We can only walk IN THE SPIRIT when we are OF THE SPIRIT. Those of the Spirit are “led of the spirit” (Gal. 5:18) because they are directed by that Word the Spirit has given. They walk, then, not after the flesh (Romans 8:1). The dangers of walking after or according to the flesh are discussed by Paul in his letter to the Romans. He had great concern for all the churches, praying and teaching that they would not walk in the flesh because of the consequences which include the wages of death (Rom 6:23). He warned, "For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God" (Romans 8:5).

Think of that if you will. The mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law. It's simply saying, those who do not follow biblical law/principals are hostile toward GOD. Their minds are contrary to God's way ... they serve themselves, their wants, their desires, their flesh. They love themselves more than God and have virtually made a god of themselves, serving their flesh. These are the opposite of those born of the Spirit. The child of God IS, then, spiritual! Spirituality is not something you “get” in reaction to something else. It is something permanently A PART OF THE BELIEVER! It is amazing how time and men take their toll on plain Bible teaching. Among words and expressions abused, misused, perverted, bent, and twisted are such as “born again … spiritual … saint … sanctified … holy … converted…,” etc. It is little wonder that in a nation filled with Bibles men still have little concept of the will of God. And in a time and society wherein virtually everything has been placed on the altar of materialism, goods, fun, etc., very little thought is even given to being spiritual. But time does not change the Word, and it is still required that men obey the truth, and live by the truth, and thus, in life, to be born of the Spirit. For the child of God, the challenge is, again, to BE SPIRITUAL and not to just drift through life unguided and then, when faced with some situation, to “GET SPIRITUAL.”

In conclusion, though the following is never popular to say to others, my duty as a Christian is to inform you that if you have never been born again (John 3:3) then you have the wrath of God abiding on you (John 3:18, 3:36) and not one of your best efforts can ever please God because “Those who are in the flesh cannot please God” (Rom 8:8). Since you have rejected Christ, if indeed you have, you reject your only hope of eternal life and have standing before you the eternal state of the wages that you have earned - death (Rom 6:23). Because everyone has sinned, including me (Rom 3:23) Jesus came to earth and was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life but became sin for us so that when God the Father looks at those who believe, He doesn’t see our sinfulness but He sees the righteousness of Christ and He imputes His righteousness to us (2 Cor 5:21) making us worthy through His shed blood being born of the Spirit. Today, if you have heard His voice in this message, repent and trust in Him because today can be your day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2). If not and Jesus returns before you are born again, you face a Christ-less eternity and the everlasting wrath of God (Rev 20:11-15).
Until next time,
-Pat-

Will Being Good Save You?

As a Christian, it is always disheartening to hear a person assert that being morally good will save them on Judgment Day (2 Corinthians 5:10; Ecclesiastes 12:14; Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 20: 11-15.) It's one of the hardest worldly opinions to dispute. And it is just that - an opinion. I'm not being personally judgmental when I say being morally good will not save you. In fact, that was my mantra for the first 22 years of my life! I was born, raised, and baptized into the Catholic faith. Trust me when I say I was morally good in every sense of the word. I was taught and believed if I remained untouched (at least until marriage) remained lawfully unscathed, obeyed the 10 commandments, was a "good" person, and always went to church on Sundays, I would be certifiably "good enough" and qualified to enter the Kingdom of Heaven when I died. The real question is, will being morally good in any or all areas of your life save you? Will being kind, avoiding or never committing "big" sins save you? Is devotion to a life of selflessness or helping others enough to save you? Though all these things are respectable and good, they are not qualifiers for salvation. You see, it's not what you DO that saves you from hell, it's what you DON'T DO! It's not all the good or wonderful things you've done in this life that redeems you, it's most likely what you haven't done to this point.


The Scriptures tell us that we cannot be saved by our own merit, our own righteousness, or personal works (Ephesians 2:8-9; 2 Timothy 1:9; Titus 3:5; Romans 10:3). To be in a saved state, we must be “in Christ” where all spiritual blessings reside (Gal. 3:26-27; Ephesians 1:3). As an example, when the following morally good individuals obeyed from the heart the saving gospel of Christ (Romans 6:17; Romans 1:16), they were in a saved state “in Christ” (Romans 8:1). We know from the biblical record regarding Cornelius (Acts 10), that even though he was a good moral man, he was lost until he obediently responded to the saving gospel message that Peter preached (Acts 10:44-48). You may be good. You may be moral. You may even be the nicest person you know, BUT, have you responded to the saving gospel message? Are you IN Christ?


The Ethiopian eunuch of Acts 8:26-40 was a worshipper of God (Acts 8:27), a reader of the Scriptures (Acts 8:30), and a trusted treasurer of the queen, yet he was lost until he was obedient to the saving gospel preached by Philip (Acts 8:35-39). You may go to church each week. You may occasionally read the Bible. You may even be the treasurer of your church, BUT, have you responded to the saving gospel message? Are you IN Christ?

Saul of Tarsus was a very zealous and religious man, thinking that he was doing right (Acts 26:9), yet he was lost until he was obedient to the Lord’s will contained in the gospel (Matthew 7:21; Acts 9:1-18). You may faithfully attend church, sing in the choir, volunteer for every overseas mission, BUT, have you responded to the saving gospel message? Are you IN Christ?

You may be a person that is more secular, never attending church a day in your life! You may be a church unto yourself. Maybe you are of the notion to "live and let live" thus avoiding a judgmental spirit. Perhaps you give your free time to humanitarian organizations and believe that type of charity equates with salvation. BUT, have you responded to the saving gospel message? But have ave you invited Christ into your life? Are you IN Christ?
Remember, it's not what you DO or have done on this earth that saves you from hell, it's what you DON'T DO! Here's why.

If we depend upon our morality alone, our goodness or perceived self-righteousness to be saved, we bypass the redeeming blood of Christ — the blood (and the only way) through which our sins are forgiven (Ephesians 1:7; Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16). When we willingly obey the commands of the saving gospel of Christ (John 8:24; Acts 17:30; Romans 10:9-10; 1 John 4:15; Acts 2:38; Gal. 3:26-27; Romans 6:3-4), we are then “in Christ” and the Lord adds us to His BODY- "the Church" (Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:47), the church that is comprised of the saved (Ephesians 5:23).
The answer to the question, 'if I am a good person will it be enough to save me on judgment day' is a definite “no” according to the inspired Scriptures "for ALL have sinned and FALLEN SHORT of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). If we all have sinned, sin cannot enter or reside in heaven. Therefore, we cannot enter in because our own merits do not erase sins. Many people DO good things, admirable things, and actions worthy of man's praise. What they DON'T DO is truly commit their lives to Christ in the way the Bible teaches and is required to be saved! Jesus Himself specifically told us John 3:5 NKJV "Most assuredly, I say to you unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God." Observe the exact words of Jesus here. He used the words MOST ASSUREDLY. That leaves no doubt He was not only serious but unquestionably, beyond a shadow of a doubt, telling us the bare, basic truth of how to be saved. Which is:

1. BELIEVE JESUS IS THE ONE WHO SAVES.
John 1:12 - But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name

2. BE HONEST ENOUGH TO ADMIT YOU'VE SINNED AND CONFESS IT. BE SORRY. THAT'S REPENTANCE.
Acts 2:38 - Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

3. BE RENEWED IN YOUR MIND BY HIS WORD IT IS THE LIVING WATER- READ IT!! BE IMMERSED IN IT.
1 Peter 1:23 - Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.

4. TURN FROM YOUR SIN. REFUSE TO GO BACK AND BE ENTANGLED AGAIN.
Romans 6:6 - Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin any longer.

5. HE LOVES YOU AND WILL SAVE YOU. ASK HIM TO COME INTO YOUR HEART AND TO HELP YOU LIVE AS HE WANTS.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

6. YOU WILL BECOME A NEW PERSON WITH A CLEAN SLATE, A SPIRIT BORN MEMBER OF HIS CHURCH
2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new.

The Word of God is powerful! It has the power to renew the mind. It cleanses your thinking which in turn changes your actions. The Word of God baptizes you because it is the Living Water that teaches you, guides you, and changes you from a man of sin into a new creature of righteousness powered by the Holy Spirit which comes to live in you after you believe and respond. It's the simplicity of being born of water and of the Spirit! If you have any questions feel free to contact me at MarioJaxxMom@gmail

Until next time,
-Pat-

Those Subtle Snakes

One day many years ago, my father-in-law and I were out in a field directly behind his farmhouse looking for morel mushrooms. I was bent over at the waist with my eyes focused on the ground when suddenly my father-in-law let out a gentle but drawn-out, "Shh, don't move." Slowly and gingerly I raised myself up to a rigid standing position and locked my knees. "There's a rattler by your right foot," he said. When anyone in Missouri uses the term "rattler" as opposed to just saying the word snake, they mean a venomous RATTLESNAKE. In general, I'm not one that fears snakes. However, when it comes to the poisonous ones, let's just say I respect them! Refusing to even exhale my father-in-law unholstered the pistol he always carried on his hip. With one precise shot, that 7-foot snake was dead.

He was quite the outdoorsman, my father-in-law. I always enjoyed listening to the many hunting and fishing stories he shared because there was always something to laugh about in each and every one. He told me when he was a boy growing up on a farm, he and his grandad killed ten rattlesnakes in one day. He said a rattler can easily be killed if you know where it is and how far it can reach when it strikes. He never worried about the rattlesnakes he could see, but he was genuinely concerned about stepping on a subtle one he couldn’t see. I'm sure glad he saw that one by my right foot or I might have stepped backward on it and things would have turned out differently.

Sometimes we don't realize there are subtle, "spiritual" snakes ready to strike us all the time. We are, of course, aware of obvious serpents and we avoid them. Serpents such as adultery, murder, sexual perversion, and drunkenness. We basically know by instinct these are wrong and avoid them since they do not replicate the character of Christ. But what about the little serpents, the poisonous "snakes" that aren't so obvious? Things we don't consider like pride, self-reliance, selfishness, buying into worldly fads, hatred, judgment, materialism, lust, or secular music whose lyrics exceed the realm of decency. As an example, in the Old Testament, King Hezekiah was subtly “bitten” by a hidden temptation — NOT seduced by an obvious evil. He allowed a measure of pride and self-reliance to blight his career. He should have put his full trust in the Lord for protection from his enemies, but instead sought safety through an alliance with idolatrous men (2 Kings 20:12-13; 2 Chronicles 32:25; 2 Chronicles 32:31). It’s sad to realize that this otherwise good king marred his reign by this sin. We need to be on guard lest we allow pride to build up in our hearts until, like Hezekiah, we succumb to the wiles of the enemy.

Scripture tells us: "A man's pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor" (Proverbs 29:23). We may be prepared to stand against obvious temptations that would bring dishonor to our name, but we may not be ready for life’s “subtle” temptations. We need to beware of those “hidden rattlers” — they are the most dangerous of all! Jesus taught that evil originates in the heart. It is not the product of a bad environment or a dysfunctional family or a below-poverty rating or the construction of one’s genes or an inferior education. Jesus said, “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander”(Matthew 15:19). His words affirm what the prophet Jeremiah proclaimed to the nation Judah, “The heart is deceitful above all things . . . .” (Jeremiah 17:9). His teaching also recalls the Lord’s indictment of the human race in the time of Noah: “The LORD saw how great man’s wickedness on the earth had become and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time” (Genesis 6:5). Clearly, God knows our thoughts and emotions, and if they offend Him, we need to regard them as sin. They may be subtle, but they are as odious to God as murder and adultery. Struggles with our subtle, wayward desires arise chiefly because we have kept Christ outside the door. The best way to protect our souls, then, is to keep Christ in.

Until next time,
-Pat-

Saving The Lost Stray

Every time I see an ASPCA commercial on television it tears my heart apart. If I could, I would rescue every lost, lonely, abused, dumped or cast away dog or cat beside the four I already have right now. Several years ago, while out driving on my way to the grocery store, I saw a very skinny, scraggly stray dog in an open field. Desiring to help, I got out of my Jeep and pursued it for over an hour in an attempt to call it to come to me. Unable to do so, I concluded I should drive to the store and buy some hamburger for the starving animal. After leaving the meat where the stray could find it, I waited, and waited, and waited, but the dog still declined my offer. In frustration, I cried out, “I’m trying to save you! You’re going to starve to death or be killed out here!” Later I thought to myself, 'That dog had no idea it actually needed me but it refused my offer of food so that I could help it.' I was so hurt and frustrated knowing the bleak future as a stray. Today I still wonder whatever happened to that poor, lost dog.


Reflecting on that experience today, a spiritual application is so very clear and I wish to share it. Wanting to save that dog reminds me of the Lord — how He lovingly works to call people to come to Him so that He might save them (Matthew 11:28-30), yet so many refuse. Many do not even believe they need Him at all. They do not realize their souls are starving!” My experience should be a powerful reminder to us as to how God sees our true, pitiful condition: Lost, starving, headed for danger, and in need of His help and comfort. Isaiah the prophet once stated regarding our spiritual condition: "All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned, everyone, to his own way, and the Lord has laid on Him the sins of us all" (Isaiah 53:6). Just as desperately as I wanted to rescue that pitiful stray dog, God wants to rescue us! It's true. God reaches out to rescue us by calling us through the saving message of the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14), but many still refuse His offer, unaware of their perilous spiritual condition.


On one occasion, Jesus looked upon the city of Jerusalem, saw their spiritual condition, and wept over it, saying: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!" (Matthew 23:37; Luke 19:41-44). JESUS WANTS TO RESCUE US! Jesus went to the cross to make our salvation possible! He took your sins and my sins upon Himself and paid the price for our redemption (1 Peter 2:24; Hebrews 9:28). He invites all to come to Him for salvation: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls, For My yoke is easy and My burden is light“ (Matthew 11:28-30).


How can we be saved? Our Lord has revealed five basic conditions of acceptance into His spiritual body, the Church (Matthew 16:18; Romans 12:5; Ephesians 1:15-23; Colossians 1:18). They are:
Faith (Hebrews 11:6). Believe He is the Savior.
Repentance (Acts 17:30-31) Be truly sorry for the wrongs you've committed in your life and desire real change.
Confession (Romans 10:9-10) Ask for His forgiveness. He'll do it.
Baptism (immersion) for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16). Be baptized in water as a symbol of your sincerity.
A life lived in dedication to the following of His will (Matthew 7:21; James 1:20-27; 1 John 1:7). Vow to follow His will as spelled out in His Word.
Just like my experience of desperation to save that dog, Jesus sees us in our true, pitiful condition: Lost, starving, headed for danger, and in need of His help and comfort (Luke 15:11-24). He calls each of us to come to Him for salvation (Revelation 3:20). You have to realize, even though you don't feel lost, without Jesus, you are! Even though you may not believe you're in danger, without Jesus, you are! Jesus' passionate desire is to rescue you from your lost condition. He wants to comfort you, love you, fill you with hope, and give you a secure home in heaven (not unlike our desire to give rescued dogs the same!). Please do not reject His call for another moment, but come to Him in willing obedience today! (2 Corinthians 6:2). If you have any questions regarding coming to Christ, please leave a comment or you may email me directly at MarioJaxxMom@gmail.com

Until next time,

-Pat-

Don't Touch Me

As I was listening to my Wonder Bible this past week from the book of John, something stood out that I've never heard before. Actually, I have heard it audibly but have never really "heard" it until now. So, I asked the Lord to enlighten me. In short, after His resurrection, Jesus appears before Mary Magdalene and He tells her, "Touch me not for I have not yet ascended to the Father" (John 20:17). Okay, well enough. I always assumed Jesus was telling Mary not to touch Him because of His 'risen state' -- that He was now a holy and pure body and therefore should not be touched by her earthly flesh. Right or wrong it is what I have always assumed. I never gave His statement much thought until this past week. And here is what struck me. Remember doubting Thomas? Thomas was not present when the eleven disciples first saw Jesus after His resurrection and announced to Thomas that they had seen the Lord. Thomas, as recorded in verse 25, boldly pronounces, "Except I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into His side, I will not believe." Eight days passed since Thomas said this. Thomas was with the disciples this time when Jesus appears in their midst. Verse 27 tells us Jesus had a different reaction to Thomas than He did Mary. He told Mary "Touch me not" but to Thomas, he said, "Reach hither thy finger and behold My hands, and reach hither thy hand and thrust it into my side." Hadn't Jesus just days prior told Mary NOT to touch Him, but to Thomas, He gave permission to touch Him? I found that very curious! Why the two differences?

I asked God to reveal what this could mean, not from a contradictory standpoint, but from what seems to be an unfair position or even favoritism. Obviously, I had to begin with and understand the meaning of the word 'touch' so I went to the Greek dictionary as I so often do. In John 20:17, the word "touch" (in Greek is Haptou) means "to cling to, to lay hold of." Because Jesus used the word touch in this sense, this wasn't just a touch or a tap; it was a grip. The meaning of this verse has the idea then of "to stop clinging," "grasping tightly," or to "stop fastening onto." It wasn't that Jesus was telling Mary not to physically touch Him, rather, not to cling and prevent Jesus from moving or leaving and Jesus let her know He must leave. So we must understand, the issue is not about physical touch at all, but that He could not remain with her or anyone. If you read Matthew 28:9, you will see the women in this verse were holding Jesus' feet. "And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshipped Him" (NASB). INTERESTING! Think of that. They were on their knees holding His feet! "Taking hold" (Haptou) of His feet sounds as if He was nearly held hostage by very emotional women. I probably would have done the same!

Mary's reaction (Haptou) was motivated by several things. One, of course, would simply be her loving devotion to the Lord. Mary had to have been overwhelmed by recent events: seeing Jesus scourged, carrying a heavy cross, whipped, crowed, nailed, crucified, put to death, placed in a tomb, then he suddenly appears and is alive in a matter of three short days! Her grief that morning turned to sudden joy seeing Him alive so she naturally embraces and clings to Him, savoring the moment, not wanting Him to leave. She had lost Him once and she wanted to make sure she didn't lose Him again -- she wanted to keep Jesus with her always. It might even be possible that Mary thought it was the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to return (John 14:3), in which case He would take her (and all the followers and believers) with Him back to the Father in heaven. However, we know by reading this account and where we are in history today that it was not Jesus' plan to stay in this world, and He told Mary He would have to eventually leave by returning to heaven and to the Father where He belonged. He made it clear that His resurrection was not to be seen or misconstrued as His promised return. In fact, that's why He told Mary of the ascension. His plan was to ascend to the Father and then send the Holy Spirit (John 16:7; 20:22; Acts 2:1-4). Fellowship with Jesus would continue, but it would be a spiritual communion, not a physical presence. In loosening Mary's hold on Him, Jesus was, in effect, saying: "I know you desire to keep Me here, always present with you. I know you want everything to be just the same as it was before I died. But our relationship is about to change. I'm going to heaven, and you will have the Comforter in My place. You need to start walking by faith, Mary, not by sight."

And then there's Thomas. When Jesus spoke to Thomas, it was not to counter a misplaced desire but to rebuke a lack of faith. Thomas had said that he would not believe until he had touched the living body of Jesus (John 20:25). Jesus, knowing all about Thomas' prior statement, offered His body as living proof of His resurrection, and something He did on another occasion (Luke 24:39-40). So in conclusion, the Lord answered and revealed to me that both Mary and Thomas needed more faith. Mary needed faith enough to let Jesus go and believe she would never be alone because the Comforter He promised would come, and Thomas needed faith enough to believe without seeing or needing physical proof. Mary needed to loosen her grip and Thomas needed to strengthen his! Amazing, huh? If you read the Word you'll understand you have been given faith to understand all these things for "Faith comes in hearing and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17). Believe it! Exercise it!
Until next time,
-Pat-

A Fresh Start For 2020

One of the tragedies of the twentieth century is that people go to church and learn about God but they do not know God. You can know about God without knowing God, and if all you do is know about Him, then indeed, you're going to be lost, you're going to die, you're going to perish. KNOWING GOD is of utmost importance. Remember Jesus' Word in Matthew 7:21-23? He gives us something to think about. Many were knocking at the door of heaven for Jesus to let them in because they thought they were acceptable in their own eyes by the deeds they did, and they learned enough about Him that they called Him Lord. But was He their Lord? They believed because they had done many good things on earth, even prophesying and casting out demons (which indicates they believed these were works/actions worthy of salvation), do you recall Jesus rejecting them at the door of heaven? More importantly, do you remember WHY they were rejected? Jesus proclaimed He never knew them! These did not do the will of the Father and thus were turned away. In other words, those who really KNOW God, love God. And when you love God you obey Him. No amount of goodness or good works will purchase your salvation. Let me say that in a different way. If you KNOW God, then you're going to love God, because no one can truly know Him without loving Him because God is love (1 John 4:7-21). And if you love God you're going to trust God, because when you see how much He loves you (John 3:16), it will be easy for you to trust Him. And when you trust Him you're going to obey Him, for we cannot fully obey someone we do not trust. And when we obey Him we're going to be blessed, for the Bible says ''if you know these things, happy are ye if you do them.'' Do you want to be blessed? Then you have to obey. Do you want to obey? Then you have to trust. Do you want to trust? Then you need to love. Do you want to love? You need to know. YOU NEED TO KNOW GOD. I'm asking, do you know Him? Do you really down in your hearts know God?

God created you. Not only that, He loves you so much that He wants you to know Him now and spend eternity with Him. Jesus said, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only Son so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life." Jesus came so that each of us could know and understand God in a personal way! Jesus alone can bring meaning and purpose to life. Do you feel separated from God as if He is a gazillion miles away? Do you know why you feel like that? I'll tell you. You sense that separation, that distance from God because of your sin. The Bible tells us that “All of us like sheep have gone astray; each of us has turned to his own way” (Isaiah 53:6). Deep down, our attitude may be one of active rebellion or passive indifference toward God and His ways, but it’s all evidence of what the Bible calls sin. The result of sin in our lives is death -- spiritual separation from God. That's the distance you feel, that gap between you and God. Although we may try to get close to God through our own effort, we inevitably fail. Our efforts to reach God...doing good for others, religious rituals, trying to be a good person, etc. are just that; efforts. But the problem is that none of these good efforts actually cover up our sin or remove it! Our sin is known by God and stands as a barrier between us and God. Further, the Bible says that the penalty for sin is death. We would be eternally separated from God.


Instead of trying to reach God, He tells us how we can begin a relationship with Him right now. Jesus says, “Come to me.” “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink...out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” It was Jesus’ love for us that caused Him to endure the cross. And He now invites us to come to Him, that we might begin a personal relationship with God. Just knowing what Jesus has done for us and what He is offering us is not enough. To have a relationship with God, TO KNOW HIM, we need to welcome Him into our life. The Bible says, “Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the power to become the sons of God." That "power" is His Holy Spirit! We accept Jesus by faith. The Bible says, “God saved you by His special favor when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done or will ever do in the future, so none of us can boast about it” (Ephesians 2:9). Accepting Jesus means believing that Jesus is the Son of God, then inviting Him to guide and direct our lives. Jesus said, “I came that you might have life, and have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). And here is Jesus’ invitation. He said, “I’m standing at the door and I’m knocking. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.”

As 2020 begins you can receive Jesus right now and KNOW God rather than just "learn about" Him through a church service. Remember that Jesus said, “I’m standing at the door and I’m knocking. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.” Would you like to respond to His invitation and start this year anew? Here’s how. The words you use to commit yourself to God are not important. He knows the intentions of your heart. If you are unsure of what to pray, this might help you put it into words: “Jesus, I want to know you. I want you to come into my life. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sin so that I could be fully accepted by you. Only you can give me the power to change and become the person you created me to be. Thank you for your forgiveness and for giving me eternal life. I, in turn, give my life to you. Please do with it as you wish. Amen.” If you sincerely asked Jesus into your heart just now, then He has come into your life as He promised in His Word... it will be a one on one personal relationship! To get to know Him, read your Bible. Amazing knowledge is contained in His Word.
Until next time,
-Pat-

My Final Message for 2019

Another year has almost gone and we are on the brink of another! What kind of a year has 2019 been for you? Where would you place it on a scale of 1 – 10?
Maybe you would give 2019 an 8 or 9 out of 10 – in other words, it was a really good year. It was a good year because you had success in your business, a good year at work or at school, good family relationships, new friendships? 2019 was a year that included a lot of exciting things, new challenges, tasks completed, a great holiday. Or maybe you rate this past year 8 out of ten compared to the previous year which was a horrible year. Or maybe you would give 2019 a 5. It was just another year, pretty much the same as any other year? Nothing very exciting happened, in fact, it was kind of dull and dreary. Just getting up, going to work, coming home, going to bed and then doing the same thing the next day and the next and the next. Maybe 2019 deserves only 2 out of 10. That’s because it was a really dreadful year. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The year included tragedy, sickness, loss of friends, marriage problems, the kids were just impossible, even a death in your family. How would you rate this year?


Think back and check what kind of a person you were during 2019. Are there some regrets? If you were able to have some part of the year over again, how would you have behaved differently? Would you have shown more understanding, cared more, been more patient, less critical, been more supportive and helpful? As I reflect on the year that has past there are certain things that I wish I would have done differently. How about your relationship with God? Did that flourish and grow during 2019 or did it just hover in much the same place as it did the previous year or perhaps even went backward as you prayed less, heard less from God through his Word, worshipped less?? Maybe God didn’t have a big part to play in your life during this past year; somehow He just slipped into the background. You could well ask the question: how much did my life reflect the fact that I am God's child –
Did I speak as a child of God;
Did I act with the love of God in my heart;
Did I interact with others with the same love and forgiveness that Jesus has shown toward me?

As we stand on the threshold of another year, Jesus tells us a parable. It’s brief but the point is clear. "Listen," Jesus says. "A man has a fig tree and plants it in his vineyard. Three years later he’s making his way up and down his vineyard, he is looking forward to the taste of a ripe fig but he sees that the fig tree still doesn’t have any fruit. he calls to his gardener, ‘Hey! Get over here. Why is this tree still here? It’s taking up soil and moisture and space. Cut it down, right now.’ Does that sound unduly cruel to you? Actually, Jesus has a message for us. Why should that tree remain standing? Why should it keep taking up space, using up the goodness of the soil if it’s serving no purpose? What’s the point of having a tree that should bear fruit but does nothing? Maybe you’ve had an actual tree in your backyard garden you can relate to that was a big disappointment and you have laid into it with an ax digging it out roots and all. Jesus’ words, "Cut it down, right now," cuts deeply. The owner has a right to be disappointed and angry at that useless tree. It’s no wonder he wants it destroyed. But as we listen to Jesus' story we know Jesus isn’t just talking about a fig tree. He’s talking about you and me. We are led to ask ourselves, "Am I bearing fruit? I keep sucking up the nutrients of the soil in which I’ve been planted so when am I going to show some kind of fruit to match the years I’ve been standing in God's garden and all the opportunities I’ve been given?" Jesus takes a breath and continues. "Leave it alone for one more year", the gardener pleads, "I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year fine! If not, then cut it down." And with that, Jesus ends his story of the fig tree leaving His listeners to ponder the generosity, the patience, the grace of the gardener. They are struck by the words of the gardener when he says "Leave it alone". The word used by Jesus here also means "forgive". They know now that Jesus wasn’t simply telling a story about a fig tree but he was talking about God and the way He forgives us even though we don’t deserve such generosity and kindness.


You see, God has given us some wonderful soil for growth. In Colossians chapter 2 we are told, "You have accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord. Now keep on following him. Plant your roots in Christ and let Him be the foundation for your life. Be strong in your faith, just as you were taught. And be grateful" (verses 6 & 7). As God's people, we build our lives on Jesus. Our very existence, our day-to-day living, our every breathing moment has its source in him. We occupy valuable space in the garden. The soil is rich and our roots are there and the owner of the garden is looking for fruit. God wants to see in us the kind of fruit that he would expect to see from someone who has been made new and holy through the blood of Jesus; from someone who has been given a new life by the living Jesus. As 2019 draws to a close He sees all too well what has happened in the past - how our relationships haven’t always been what they could have been.
He has seen the arguments, the inability to be generous when it comes to forgiveness and reconciliation, the lack of gratitude to your parents, the disrespect for your children, the disconnection between you and the church and what God offers through his church. He’s seen it all as it has unfolded during 2019 much to our embarrassment. And He’s forgiven it all. And we’ve drawn on that forgiveness. We’ve heard His words every Sunday as He says to us, ‘Your sins are forgiven!’
We’ve been assured that each time we’ve come to the Lord’s Supper! We’ve drawn on those riches, and still, there’s someone we haven’t forgiven. Still, there is that relationship that remains fractured. Still, no words are spoken between you and the person with whom you have fallen out. Still, the anger wells up whenever you think of that person or hear his/her name.


What magnificent love God shows us! He really must think we’re something special. What love He has that He takes me and adopts me and calls me his child. That love of God is so precious to us especially when we have cried out in despair and pain and need the reassurance that everything will be all right!
But how many times has someone cried out for some love and we’ve been so busy enjoying that love ourselves that we haven’t heard the cry? It’s true that there have times when we’ve really felt down, really alone, we’ve spent restless nights in our beds and the morning has brought no relief. And someone has helped us! A telephone call, a letter, a word, an arm around our shoulders and we’ve been uplifted! Perhaps a sermon, a devotion, a hymn or song has reassured us and given us hope! But how deaf we’ve been to the loneliness and confusion and despair all around us? "Give the tree one more year", the gardener in the vineyard said. The owner wanted to chop it down but the gardener isn’t going to give up. He’s going to dig around it, turn over the soil, add some fertilizer, show it some more TLC and give it another chance! Isn’t that just typical of the Spirit of God? The soil may be brown and hard-baked, but He’s going to send rain. There’s going to be a change. The gardener is determined and He’s going to see to it! Listen to what Jesus tells us in John chapter 15:5, "Those who remain in Me, and I in them, will bear much fruit; for you can do nothing without Me".


The key is to be connected to Jesus. He is the one who can enable us to be what we ought to be. We need Him to help our branches bear fruit. Without Him, we will rate each year that passes below 5 on the 1 to 10 scale! Every day we are inclined to want to break the relationship that God has with us and to turn our back on the way He wants us to be as his children. We are like the fig tree that fails to produce good fruit. Thank God for the patience and grace of the gardener. Jesus gives Himself for us. He becomes the manure, the fertilizer for us as He is rejected, laughed at, crucified as a criminal. On the cross, nails, thorn-spikes, and spear dig into Him. He waters the ground with His own blood. He does everything. We do nothing. We simply trust in His grace. In Christ, we are made beautiful, fruitful gardens. He digs around so that the love of God pours out of us and begins to work in us and we become lovely people, through Jesus! With His kind of fertilizer we begin to accept others as He was able to accept others … and us. The parable about the fig tree makes it quite clear that we have been unfruitful, unfaithful, yet in spite of our lack of fidelity, God is faithful. Be sure of this: Jesus waits for us, spade in hand, wheelbarrow by his side, ready to bring us into the new decade of 2020. That’s a promise. Armed with that promise, we can step forward into the New Year ready to let Him do the work in us that only He can do. Thank Him for His goodness in giving you, giving us, one more year of grace!

Happy New Year!
-Pat-

Gossip

As one of the 2.45 billion members who use Face book (that's billion with a B), I find no lack of habitual gossip on that social media site. Gossip weaves its way through various comments and posts on a regular basis. Recently I had a physical injury that kept me in bed and off the Internet. With that absence, I did not realize how much gossip plays a role when using that social media site until I signed back on 9 days later! I must have become numb to it or just psychologically decided to ignore it. I think as Christians we should be more aware of what we say and how we listen. Exodus 23:1 says, "Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness." In other words, don't spread lies, and as a hearer, don't be a part of keeping those lies alive (gossiping). Gossip is defined as, casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true.


I can remember a time when peachers used to present sermons condemning gossip. We don’t hear too many sermons on gossip these days, but gossip still exists. One reason why people indulge in gossip is that they find a degree of enjoyment in discussing the faults of other people. We all know of someone who eats gossip up. Proverbs 26:22 EVS, "The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they do down into the inner parts of the body." Gossip is more than "talk." What we hear we ingest! What we ingest becomes us. TV newscasters have long known that juicy scandals make good news copy and sell newspapers. Why is the report of scandals pleasurable to them? I suspicion it's because it brings about an unconsciousness of their faults. Tearing down others makes them feel better about themselves. Many of us without psychology degrees understand this principle. Other people love to create a sensation, so they gossip in order to be at the center of attention. Likely there are other psychological mechanisms for gossip, but the basic reason is a lack of love. When we love people, we do not constantly pick out their character flaws.

King Solomon points out that: "Love covers a multitude of sins" (Proverbs 10:12; 1 Corinthians 13:7; 1 Peter 4:8). We don’t advertise the sins of people we love any more than we would advertise our own. If we truly love someone, we are slow to believe any wrong that is revealed about them until we look at the evidence. However, gossiping can be overcome! How? Consider the following example. Proverbs 26:20, "Where there is no wood, the fires go out; and where there is no talebearer, strife ceases." We can apply that scripture in this way, if an individual ever comes to you bringing words of gossip, simply tell them, “Since this matter is so important to you, let’s go and talk to the person or persons involved.” Nine times out of ten, the gossiper will suddenly vanish! No wood no fire. No talebearer no tale. It only makes sense that if there are no gossipy ears, there will be few gossipy tongues! Proverbs 11:13, " A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret."

So in closing, avoid gossip! Avoid talking or posting information on social networks that would stir arguments and debates. Stay away from such disputes. Remain silent and pray for Christians to stay firm and committed to Jesus in the midst of such a storm. Let your speech be ‘golden!’ Avoid offensive jibe, harsh language, coarse language, deceit, hurtful words, bitter words, boastful words, and cunning words. Let your words be pleasant! “Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones” (Proverbs 16:24). It requires an endless supply of energy, a massive amount of patience and iron will control our unbridled tongue in this world.

Until next time,
-Pat-

Judging Appearance- a lesson from my father-in-law

My father-in-law, a very unique man, passed away about seven years ago. He and I would often go fishing on his 14-foot aluminum boat in the cool of the evening as the sun was setting. No one else in the family liked to fish so it was always just him and me. I always looked forward to going because he would share some of the best stories from his life. Most of them made me laugh, some were serious, and others I made mental notes of in case I needed to apply them to my own life. He had a way of presenting his experiences that when he finished, you felt like you had been to church. There was one particular story that flooded my mind a few days ago that I'd like to share.

One Sunday morning, he said, he entered a new church just before services were to begin. Although his clothes had been washed, he wore jeans, a faded corduroy shirt, and his favorite cowboy boots that were very worn and ragged. In his hand, he carried a tattered, worn-out Bible. My father-in-law was one to walk into any church hoping he could share the gospel. The way he described it, the church he entered this time was in a very upscale and exclusive part of the city. It was the largest and most beautiful church he'd ever seen. The people of the congregation were all dressed in pricey clothes and accessories. As he took a seat, the others moved away from him. No one greeted, spoke to, or welcomed him. They openly shunned him and seemed appalled at his appearance and did not attempt to hide it. As he was leaving the church, he said the preacher approached him and asked him to do him a favor. “Before you come back in here again, have a talk with God and ask Him what He thinks would be appropriate attire for worship.” My father-in-law assured the preacher that he would.

The next Sunday, as the story goes, he told me he returned for the services. Giggling a bit he admitted his jeans may have been a little more ragged, his change of shirt still faded from mechanics work, he wore the same ole' worn-out boots and held tightly to his leather-bound, tattered bible. Once again, he was completely shunned and ignored by everyone in the building. He wasn't surprised when the preacher approached him again and said, “I thought I asked you to speak to God before you came back to this church.”
“I did,” replied my father-in-law.
“If you spoke to God, what did he tell you the proper attire should be for worshipping in here?” asked the preacher. Knowing my father-in-law well, I couldn't wait to hear his response! With a slight hesitation and an ornery smile on his face, he told me he said, “Well, sir, God told me that He didn’t have a clue what I should wear. He said He’d never been in this church.”
We both erupted into a synchronized chorus of laughter as our voices continued resonating across the lake.

What can we learn? As Christians, we should never be guilty of playing favorites or judging people based on appearance. God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34; Romans 2:11; Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 3:25; 1 Peter 1:17; James 2:1-10) Why is it that people feel the need to judge another person? Why do people judge others by what they wear or what they look like? We judge when we assume things as well. Read my blog titled "ASSUMICIDE." We mentally hand out labels, like "bum" or "hobo". Whether we are Christian or not, we have heard the phrase Judge not or you will be judged. That's actually more than a phrase, it's a command in the Bible and it's something for people who are quick to make judgments to remember. When you’re thinking about judging a book by its cover, sometimes, I think most people find, if they open it up, they might like what they find inside despite a non-attractive cover. The same goes for people. Just take a second to take a closer look or hear what they have to say. You might find the man or quiet boy in school is having trouble with his speech, or the man in the raggedy clothes has a Ph.D. In the case of my father-in-law, he ran his own car shop business and had an excellent reputation of being the best automobile mechanic on this side of the Mississippi. I'm sure the folks in that church of such status were mentally judging my father-in-law as a bum just by the way they avoided and ignored him. I’ll tell you, words can hurt a lot more than a bruise - the bruise goes away. The hurt from words is burned into the memory. I was a victim of bullying for years, and trust me, hurtful words cut deeper than physical injury or pain.

We wonder why others are committing crimes. Think about it. Many times people are angry, hurt, and think they can get even with society for throwing them away with disdain. It's true. It's factual. When people judge those who’ve fallen on hard times, it makes it even harder to make a comeback. How would they feel if someone labeled them? Even after I get to know a person, I don’t judge them. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I've been judged falsely. It's not fun! As a quick example, take the time to consider that there might be underlying health issues preventing the person from having a job and that they are not lazy at all. Especially now, during this Christmas season, let love rule in your heart and think twice before labeling someone you believe falls below your standard. Each of us is made in the image of God. Each of us has worth.
I'll leave you with this, 1 John 4:20 "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, how can they love God, whom they have not seen."
Until next time.
-Pat-