Did you think you were God??

~Erin Blair

My husband and I love Alfred Hitchcock movies. They are different from the modern horror films that are more gore and hack-and-slash with no plot. We appreciate the Hitchcock films for “turning our wheels” and making us think, making our mind do the tricks for us. One of our favorites is the film “Rope” staring Jimmy Stewart. This probably isn’t considered a horror film like, say, Psycho, but the other day I was thinking of a wonderful point this film made.

Let me give a brief synopsis. Two college students decide to murder via strangulation another student because they determined he was intellectually inferior. They then stuffed his body in a trunk and served food off the same trunk later that day at a party they hosted in their apartment. One of the guests they invited was their college professor played by Jimmy Stewart. They thought that killing this “inferior” student would impress their professor. But Jimmy Stewart’s reaction, which in my opinion is one of the best speeches in movie history, has stuck with me:

“…Tonight you’ve made me ashamed of every concept I ever had of superior or inferior beings. And I thank you for that shame. Because now I know that we’re each of us a separate human being, Brandon, with the right to live and work and think as individuals, but with an obligation to the society we live in. By what right do you dare say that there’s a superior few to which you belong? By what right did you dare decide that that boy in there was inferior and therefore could be killed? Did you think you were God, Brandon? Is that what you thought when you choked the life out of him? Is that what you thought when you served food from his grave? …You’ve murdered! You’ve strangled the life out of a fellow human being who could live and love …”


With all the politics swarming around us today involving rulings on abortion and “mercy” killings and ISIS, this snippet keeps echoing in my mind. What is the sanctity of life? Who determines who has the right to live or die?

God is the One who created life (Gen. 2:7, 22). He is the One who created man in His image (Gen. 1:26) and therefore made man a special being, different and superior to all the animals and plants. When God made man, He “made man upright, but they have sought out many inventions.” (Eccl. 7:29) When man gets “puffed up” and thinks he is smarter or “hot stuff” than he should or really is, that’s when trouble begins (Rom. 12:3; Gal. 6:3). That’s when he starts thinking himself more knowledgeable than God or just throws God “out the window.”

Who are we as people to think we can determine what life is to be spared and which is to be “killed off” or is inferior? God has created man in His image! We are all deserving of life and none are more or less inferior in any way to another. As I sit here and type this, I can feel my son moving and kicking. Who dares determine if his life is less important than another? Who are we to judge life that God created? We need to learn to respect life, whether in the womb or in the nursing home, for all souls are important in the sight of God. Christ died for all mankind and that puts a very high importance on all human life!

Erin resides in Ben Wheeler TX with her husband, Jordan and is awaiting the birth of their first child, Judah Rae Blair. Erin has been involved with preparing and organizing the work of the church since she was a teenager by teaching all ages of Bibles classes, helping prepare and organize Ladies Days, Prom Alternatives, Youth Rallies and VBS.  She is currently works as a paralegal for a law firm. She and her husband also spend their time enjoying their garden, dogs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, quail…etc.  Life is never dull at her house. 

Can you do your sisters a favor...Please??

~Tracy Frederick

I am pretty tired. I’ve had to make some tough decisions lately in regard to my job so I have lost some hours of sleep. Ok, I realize it is just a job; I get it. It is just something to pay the bills and it is not eternity…but, in a way, it is….you see, how I behave toward others determines if others see me as honest and trustworthy and ultimately reflects…yep, on my Father so even though it is just a job, it is more than just a job, you know?

But, what was difficult about accepting about the new position is not knowing how to do it. I’ve never done it before. I have some good and bad examples, but no experience so it feels like I am going into the great abyss with only a candle…a birthday candle at that. Ok, I know I’m not, but it kinda feels that way….and for those who know me, know that I like knowing. I like being prepared and able to predict the road ahead. I like knowing. So, I reached out to people I trust and asked: Can you do me a favor…please? If you see me going down the wrong road, or see me about to make a mistake, will you please…please…please tell me to stop and backup? Will you please let me know if I say something stupid? I don’t want to fail and it is hard walking this path...alone....in the dark.

So, as the overwhelming responsibility of my new position caught up with me I thought about those who I trust will “have my back” and then I wondered about more important matters…. if my spiritual sisters have my spiritual back. I mean, what if a sister sees that I am about to break my leg (spiritually speaking) and said nothing. I wonder if she wouldn’t say anything because she thinks I believe it isn’t her business. Or maybe she’s afraid that I would get angry with her? Wow! Yeah…I think that I, or we, maybe haven’t been as welcoming to help as we should and you know, that’s not how the Lord designed His church. In Luke 10 our Savior sent out His apostles in pairs. He knew that they were going to face difficult situations. He knew that they needed each other to find the path; to help each other just like He knows we need the same thing- each other to get it back on track.

And so, I wonder if we, in the most important “job” that we’ve been given- our spiritual service- if we think we can go it on our own. Just like in my new position, I can’t watch everything. I will make mistakes. I can’t always see the problems ahead. Spiritually we may not realize when we mess up…just like we can’t always tell if something looks good on us…we need someone to be honest with us…tell us the truth even when it hurts. We’re a little prejudice, you know? We think we’ve got it together, even when we don’t.

So, I have a favor to ask….a really…really big favor. Please tell me when you see me mess up. Please don’t let me fail in my spiritual walk. I know that it may be hard to speak up. I know that we believe that others don’t want to hear it…but if we are truly working for that spiritual success, we will want the help. So, can’t you do your sister a favor…please?

Expectations

~Tracy Frederick

It is the beginning of another semester and I am in my 26th year of teaching. I have learned that although students change, they always stay the same. Every semester…yep every semester…when I ask them to send me their “concerns” for the class- so I know their anxieties, they have- they never failed to tell me that my reputation as a “tough teacher” precedes me, or “I hear that this class is very hard.” And every semester I pause before I respond. My first thought is: Of course I am “hard,” this is education! Or “Yes, this class is hard, if it weren’t why take it?!” …sigh… but their expectations for classes are always the same- it should be easy and I shouldn’t have such high expectations of them.

So, when I started reading them again this semester, I began to think about my own spirituality…and others. I realized how often I have thought the same thing of my Father: I have become upset and frustrated when the Christian walk is “hard” or discouragement hits me and I fall to my knees, or when I would like for Him to just “overlook” a sin.

I always respond to my student’s concerns about the class with: “Yes, it will be hard, but you can do it. You will learn a lot and if you follow the detailed instructions- offered for every assignment- and ask for help. I will do all that I can to help you succeed. I will model all speeches for you to offer you a real-life example.” And this seems to make them feel better…until the semester gets a little tough and I have to remind them again that I am here to help, to encourage and to offer instructions on how to succeed.

Yep, it is difficult to admit that I am not much better than those young people that I teach. I don’t know if you are like I am, but this morning as I was reading through the concerns, my mind drifted to the great encouragement that my Savior provided for me, to remind me that if it will NEVER be “easy” …it WILL be hard….So I need to stop expecting it to be differnt; to stop expecting it to be easy and just read the detailed instructions, ask for help and look to my Master Teacher who provides all I need to succeed.

John 15: 18-19 If the world hates you, you know that it hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love his own: but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.

Romans 5:3-5 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Philippians 4:12-13 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

Romans 5:3-5 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Philippians 4:12-13 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

I John 2:6: Whoever says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed

Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death ,I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Psalms 34:17-18 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles.The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.

Psalms 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all.

Ignoring The Other Fruit

Tracy Frederick 

He really thought that he’d gotten away with it; he thought that he had covered his tracks well. No one said anything, but everyone new, but everyone also knew that he was God’s chosen. Who was going to say anything and risk being unemployed, perhaps put in prison, or worse? Besides, if anyone was above God’s law, it would be David, right? It is easy to list off David’s righteous accomplishments: He killed Goliath when no one else would attempt it; he didn’t kill Saul- God’s anointed, even though he had a right; he brought the ark back to Israel. I mean, it doesn’t get much better than David, right? I think it is interesting that God includes David’s sin in His book. David seemed so perfect, but then no one is…perfect, right? I cringe when I read Nathan’s words to David: you have “despised the commandments of the Lord to do evil in His sight” (2 Samuel 11). David despise the Lord? Really? Wow…..But didn’t he love the Lord? Didn’t God know that David was a good guy? I mean, “despised” is a pretty strong word. But, that’s the word that the Lord gave Nathan to say to David: despise. I can’t imagine the hurt that David felt. But, what follows is so amazing. David didn’t get angry at Nathan and he didn’t deny it. He didn’t argue with Nathan, or defend his actions. He didn’t try to excuse it away like Adam tried to excuse his sin in the garden, or Abraham’s lie about Sarah….nope, he owned it…He said: ”I have sinned against the Lord.” He owned it with NO excuses….He did it and he knew it…and in doing it and denying the sin, He despised the Lord. That’s what drove him to his knees; it drove him to the floor to pray for forgiveness and then he willingly accepted the consequences- the death of his child.

I wonder how often we our conscience is so sorely troubled over our offense that we have been too soul-sick to eat or sleep, or willingly accepted what we deserve, as David did. I fear that we have lost our ability to feel sorry…REALLY sorry, that godly sorrow that David felt (For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be regretted: but the sorrow of the world works death. 2 Cor 7:10). I worry that we have convinced ourselves, perhaps like David, that we are such a good person that it will all “even out in the end.” Or perhaps we are in denial too? Perhaps we have convinced ourselves that our Father doesn’t really see?…doesn’t know?….won’t mind?….or will ignore it?…for us, since we love Him so much, right? If He love us so much, why wouldn’t He just overlook it? I mean, it’s embarrassing right? Repentance always is. It means that we put away our egos and admit that we are wrong….yep wrong…wrong…wrong… But, that’s what led us to the Lord in the first place, right? Realizing that we were wrong…DEAD wrong and knew the consequences that awaited us for despising the Lord. It is hard, I get it, repentance means that I have to make the sin right: I may have go to someone and apologize for being a liar, I may have to apologize for cheating, change my clothes or even change my friends….It means that I may be lonely for a very, very, very long time…But, you know the list of the works of the flesh in Gal 5 or the long list of sins in Rom 1. But, even if we don’t know that list by heart, we know…don’t we? Yeah, we know….we know what is right and what is wrong…. we know but I am not so sure that we realize that He knows too…He sees and He knows.… and the really important, or the scary and tough part is-- if He wasn’t willing to ignore David’s sins, He isn’t going to just ignore mine either is He? 

“Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance.” Matthew 3:8

Closed Adoption

~ Erin Blair

For many of you who may not know, my husband and I are in the process of adopting a child.  We could not be more excited or anxious to bring this precious soul into our home.  But with the excitement comes a bit of nervousness as we complete our packet, fill out forms, go through a home study and meetings with the social worker, and deciding whether to have an open or closed adoption.  As we are getting “all our ducks lined up,” I can’t help but think about the spiritual similarities between our relationship with God and that of us bringing a child into our home.

Before we become Christians, we are part of the world.  As such, we are following Satan who is our “father.” (John 8:44)  Just like that little boy who clunks around in his daddy’s boots, we are following in Satan’s footsteps as we sin and do whatever pleases our flesh.  But God is a Father as well.  When we put away the old man of sin (Romans 6:6), we are adopted into a new Family – the church (Galatians 4:5). God then becomes our Father and we are to walk in His light (1 John 1:7).  But is this an “open” or “closed” adoption?

For those who may not know the difference, an “open adoption” is where the adoptive parents keep in touch with the birth mother/family via pictures, letters, phone calls, etc.  A “closed adoption” is where the adoptive parents “close off” all communication with the birth mother, not allowing phone calls, letters, or contact with the child. 

We are not to have an “open” adoption policy with God.  Once that old man of sin is crucified (Romans 6:6), we don’t need to raise him back up!

“For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them to not have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.  But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” – 2 Peter 2:20-22

My husband and I have two Labrador Retrievers and have seen what is illustrated in verse 22.  We have seen a dog throw up and then immediately eat it. Yuck! What an unpleasant vivid illustration! It should be just as disgusting to us to return to sin as it is to see a dog throw up, then eat it again.  This is what a spiritual open adoption is – we return to our previous “father” (Satan) and keep the lines of communication open and thus soil ourselves with sin yet again, just like that pig in the mud. 

When we become Christians, we should seal the adoption and make it “closed.” We should not desire to have that communication with Satan or want to go back to sin.  Once we have been adopted into God’s family, then God is our Father and no one else.  All lines of communication should be broken with the old man of sin and the old way of life. 

Just like that child we pray comes into our home, we as Christians are now welcomed into a healthy, loving home where our spiritual hunger is richly fed and we await that rest for our souls (Matthew 11:29).

Erin resides in Ben Wheeler Tx with her husband, Jordan. Erin has been involved with preparing and organizing the work of the church since she was a teenager by teaching all ages of Bibles classes, helping prepare and organize Ladies Days, Prom Alternatives, Youth Rallies and VBS.  She is currently works as a paralegal for a law firm. She and her husband also spend their time enjoying their garden, dogs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, quail…etc.  Life is never dull at her house. 

Just to sit at His feet…

~Tracy Frederick

He was just sitting there, on top of a mountain, and the crowds found him. They always seemed to find Him didn’t they? They needed Him. But, the magnificence of the scene is hard to imagine: “and large crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, crippled, blind, mute, and many others and they laid them at His feet; and He healed them”(Matt. 16:329-30). But, it what follows that is equally amazing to me: “And Jesus called His disciples to Him, and said, ‘I feel compassion for the people, because they have remained with Me now three days and have nothing to eat…’” (v. 32) Three days…they sat for three days with nothing to eat…not a thing. What does that really mean? It was a mountain right? So, it must have been rocky, I assume. It sounds miserable, really. I mean, seriously miserable, doesn’t it?… Except for the most important part, right? They sat at the feet of the Master for THREE DAYS!

So, I’ve been thinking a lot about those three days- the incredible hunger, the rocks, the bugs, again--the hunger…..but what gets me is no one complained. Do you see that? Nowhere in the text does one person complain about being hungry or uncomfortable. There are even children in the crowd, and no one complained about a tummy grumbling. In fact, you will see that it is Jesus who mentions that He was concerned about sending them away “for fear that they might faint on the way. “ No one seemed to be leaving…after sitting for three days. Didn’t they have jobs? Didn’t they have family trips waiting on them? Didn’t they have crops or animals to tend to? Didn’t they have responsibilities?...their kids in some kind of activity? Didn’t someone leave something in the oven????

I’ve been wondering: what would we give up to sit at the Master’s feet for three days? Three days listening to our Savior. I think we would quickly exclaim that we would give up ANYthing…our jobs, our homes, our personal relaxation plans, our family obligations just to sit at the feet of Jesus’ for three whole days.

The sad part is….we don’t. I mean, really, we don’t, do we? We have every opportunity to sit at our Master’s feet anytime, right? We weren’t like them, we don’t have to trek up to a mountain top and sit on hard rocks, endure bugs and hunger to listen to His teaching, do we? Nope…no need to go hungry, right? We can sit in the comfort of our favorite chair, snacking on our favorite snack and sipping a cool beverage while “sitting at His feet.” Yeah…we can…hummm…. So, the question for me is: would we have been in that crowd on the mountain? Would we have endured three days of hunger and rocks and bugs just to sit at the Master’s feet? .but, the problem is that I am afraid that we don’t…I mean there are so many opportunities to “sit at His feet” aren’t there? Yeah…. But do we? I mean, I wonder if we are just maybe a little too comfortable?... Maybe we need a mountain? Maybe we need bugs?……Maybe we need rocks?…..or maybe we just need to be hungry.

“Blessed are those that hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6.

NOT all of my heart…..never ALL of my heart….

~Tracy Frederick 

I can't say it...not ALL of my heart...I just can't do it.

I believe that my Father saw my weaknesses and provided a husband that I was probably too stupid to find on my own. I really believe that. My husband has always been more patient, kind, unselfish, humble, has looked out for my good over his own, has never kept score of my faults and has always, always sought God’s will over mine. I believe he does this because he does not love me with all of his heart, and honestly, because of that, I cannot love him with all of mine. Then, the Lord allowed us to have a child, one that we did not love with all our heart. Then our Father granted our petition for that sweet young woman and provided a godly man to lead her home, one whom she does not love with ALL of her heart and he does not love her with ALL of his...and we would have it no other way.

I realize that this can seem “controversial,” or that I just need to "lighten up." I see the posts on Facebook professing that someone is “BAE” (Before Anyone Else) or “I love my _____ with ALL of my heart" and they are cute and sweet. Then they ask me to share it if I too “love ___ with all of my heart.” But….I just can’t say it…because it isn’t true... because I don’t love them with ALL of my heart. I just can’t.

You see, if I love my husband with all of my heart, or BAE, the decisions for my life will be to make him, no matter what… if he has first/BAE/has all of my heart. So, when someone says something unkind toward my love, I might become hateful to those that they are critical to the one I gave my whole heart to. I might not seek their good because the one who has my whole heart is hurting. And what if he struggles? Or falters in the Way? If I love my husband with ALL of my heart, I may make excuses for behavior that could jeopardize his soul.

And if I love my son in law and daughter with ALL of my heart, and they are involved in an activity that makes them happy but keeps them from worshiping their God, or jeopardized their soul, wouldn’t I stay silent, or make an excuse for their happiness?….because they are my hearts whole love. What if they wanted some material thing that would mean we would compromise our contribution to the Lord’s church and the spreading of the Word to provide it? If I loved them with ALL of my heart, I might compromise the work of the church; the spreading of the kingdom, for their heart’s desire. That is, if I love them with my WHOLE heart.

Well, I hope that you understand what I mean by now. I’ve been thinking about this for a long time, especially when I see us, who profess Christ, choosing to support their earthly family over their God because they love them with ALL of their heart. So, I have been meditating on who has my WHOLE heart- BAE/ALL of it….you get it…. I realize that there have been times in my life in which I am ashamed to say that I gave my heart away to someone else-my husband, daughter, son in law, or other “family.” I am ashamed that I let them down and didn’t love them as I should have. So, I see the posts on Facebook professing love for [family] with ALL of their heart, and it is sweet, it really is....But, I just can’t share it, or say it because I know that they need something better from me than my whole heart. I am more loving, kind and thoughtful to their needs because they do NOT have my whole heart. I just can’t say it and I pray that they do NOT love me with ALL of their heart. I hope that they can’t…..because their WHOLE heart should belong to someone more important than me…or…a husband…wife…mother….brother… sister….or child.

Deuteronomy 6:5: Love the LORD your God with ALL your heart and with ALLyour soul and with ALL your strength.

Luke 10:27: And he answering said, You shall love the Lord your God with ALL your heart, and with ALL your soul, and with ALL your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.

Psalm 119:2: Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with ALL their heart

Women—As God Would Have Us (part 2)

~ Veronica Brown

 In this follow up article let’s continue our focus on three remaining groups of women from the book of Genesis.  Following the daughters-in-law of Noah and their example of being willing to be counted among the few we turn our minds to Sarah. Sarah is recorded by the Hebrews writer as one who judged God faithful in regard to His promises (Heb. 11:11). She trusted that God would fulfill what He had spoken to her with regard to a homeland and a heritage. Did she obey perfectly what God expected of her? No. She became impatient. She laughed. She faced doubt, discouragement, and difficulties. Yet she trusted. She waited. She complied. So, in like manner, God judged her faithful and He counted her among those great heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. What hope, encouragement, and strength we can gain from her very real example of faith in God and His promises.

Next, let’s look at Hagar the bondwoman. On the surface we tend to read about Hagar in light of Sarah’s attempt to facilitate God’s plan and the undesired results that followed. While we learn that any attempt to commandeer God’s will is futile, God reveals the true spiritual meaning of the bondwoman vs. the free woman. In Galatians 4 we learn that these two women and their two sons are symbolic (v. 24). They represent the two covenants (v. 25). The Old is represented by Hagar and Ishmael. The New is represented by Sarah and Isaac. Under the Old there is bondage—the bondwoman’s son was born according to the flesh and was therefore subject to the same bondage as his mother. But under the New there is freedom because the freewoman’s son was born according to promise (v. 23). “Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise” (Gal. 4:28). True freedom from the bondage of sin can only be found in the New Covenant system and in the promised Son. Therefore, Paul exhorts us to “stand fast in the liberty by which Christ has made us free” (Gal. 5:1). To return or adhere to Old Testament tenants is to return to bondage.  May we ever be mindful of the price that was paid for our true spiritual freedom.

 Finally, let’s notice the women in Lot’s life—his wife and their two daughters. While a casual read of their accounts in Genesis may raise more questions than answers it remains that what we can glean from their record is clear—sin always reaps adverse consequences. Living in such sinful cities as Sodom and Gomorrah undoubtedly left its fateful impression on Lot’s family. It clouded their minds and their eyes. Lot’s wife apparently couldn’t completely turn her back to such wickedness and she paid the ultimate price. Their daughters, likewise, followed suit with misguided judgment and sacrificed their purity. May we ever remember that sin always reaps gross by-products and is never an island unto itself.

From the dawn of creation to this present hour womankind has been and continues to be a most vital component to either the good or ill of humanity. Of course, God desires us to use our influence for good. Just as He expected from Eve, He expects the same from us. May we aspire to use our efforts and energies for good—to love our husbands, care for our children, and do good to all, especially those of the household of faith.  May God help us to be women, as HE would have us, and in so doing, not grow weary (Gal. 6:9)!

because of YOU!!

“These are the words that Moses spoke to all Israel beyond the Jordan in the wilderness...”.and that’s how the book of Deuteronomy begins. Moses spends a lot of time reminding them about how many times they rejected the Lord -- exposing their grumblings, pettiness, selfishness and disbelief—and reminding them of each time God helped them. It is painful to read, but, they needed to hear it. It was the end of their journey, they were about to enter the land that the Lord had promised them and actually GAVE them. They had traveled a long way, lost all of their loved ones in the process and Moses, their leader, was about to die. It was time for him to go and them to journey on without him.

I have always been in awe of the relationship Moses had with God. ..God talked to Moses as if to a friend. I can’t imagine it. So, the words that Moses spoke toward the end of the third chapter is kinda...well...odd to me.. especially because Moses knew God...really well.

 “Then I pleaded with the Lord at that time, saying: ‘O Lord God, You have begun to show Your servant Your greatness and Your mighty hand, for what god is there in heaven or on earth who can do anything like Your works and Your mighty deeds? I pray, let me cross over and see the good land beyond the Jordan, those pleasant mountains, and Lebanon.’ “But the Lord was angry with me because of you and would not listen to me. So the Lord said to me: ‘Enough of that! Speak no more to Me of this matter.”  Deut 3:23-26.

That phrase: “because of you” is really strange to me. I get that Moses had suffered with them, for them and had walked each step of the way in the dessert wondering...camping....waiting...wondering. Moses knew they had him to thank for their lives; He had saved them from the wrath of God...a couple of times. But, it is strange to me that Moses, of all people, blames the people of Israel for his sin. What is most odd about this to me is that God had already passed judgment on this issue (see Numbers 20:12). God was very clear as to why Moses was barred from entering the land- He didn’t trust God and didn’t honor God’s command. Basically, he disobeyed and let his ego get in the way.

But, isn’t it interesting in the passage above that Moses tries to flatter God- reminding Him of His mighty power- and asks Him to change His mind. I couldn’t help but recall all of the conversations that Moses and God had before this in which the Lord gave His word; gave His command and all of the times that the Lord stood by it, never wavering. That’s not a shocker. What, I am really stunned by is that Moses new that and still asked...that Moses knew God and tried blamed someone else for his sin... telling God that it was THEIR fault...THEY had made him do it....It was because THEY would not listen to him that he HAD to strike the rock....right?...yeah...wrong. Moses was a great man; a man of God, but the reason he wasn’t allowed into the land that the Lord had promised was his own fault....no one else’s...and no one else is to blame. It is a lonely idea, isn’t it? ---All alone in one’s sin? 

 These are a few small verses tucked away in a long book, but the application to us is obvious isn’t it? Can someone else MAKE us sin no matter how frustrating, ungrateful, grumbling and complaining they are? Will God accept us blaming someone else for our actions?....He didn’t accept it from Moses, the one He trusted to lead His chosen people- in fact, He told him to stop it!.... and I know He isn’t going to accept my excuse either- I too must stand all alone and accept it..... no matter how many excuses I want to offer....I must accept that isn’t because of YOU!
~Tracy Frederick

What if the Answer is No?

~Tracy Frederick

Maybe you too have found yourself praying unceasingly...night and day? Maybe you also remember that bracelet that people wore: PUSH (pray until something happens)? Maybe you too “pushed” and “pushed” every day, every night even to the point that when you awoke in your sleep, you were still praying, or “pushing” diligently. Maybe you are left wondering: Is it possible that a loving God may say “no”? In a world in which we expect a quick answer, expect that we will get our way, I rarely hear us talk about the possibility of God saying “no”...and if He does- what then? Does He not love us? Does He not care? But, that's when I reflect on  when God said “no,” “no” to His most faithful.

David begged God for the life of His child- God said no. 1 Sam 12: 16-18

Peter prayed three times for God to remove his “thorn in the flesh” - God said no. 1 Cor 12: 7- 9

Jesus prayed to His Father to let Him escape the torture that was upon Him - God said no. Matthew 26: 39-44

In each of these situations you must admit- “no” was the best answer. David needed to pay for his consequences, Peter might have become too arrogant to continue to preach the word accurately, and well....you know why God said “no” to His Son.

I guess part of the motivation for me sharing this thought today is that I have come to wonder--as I listen to prayers in the Lord’s worship assembly and hear people talk-- if we have lost our humble attitude when we pray to the Almighty God of the Universe. The idea that we are allowed to approach Him to offer our supplications and to pour out our hearts is pretty mind-blowing to me. To imagine Him--on His thrown, with His host of angels singing praises to Him while he takes the time to listen to my problems humbles my heart. His lovingkindess, care and mercy for each of us is overwhelming. And yet when we pray I wonder if we really trust the Almighty God’s will for our lives? If we did, wouldn’t we be ok with “no,” just like our Savior was? I mean, what if God had said to Jesus: “yes, I will let this cup pass”? Do you wonder how He would have found a different way to save us? ...but...hummm......no- It had to be a sinless sacrifice, right? (Hebrews 10:1-10)...so, He HAD to answer “no” to our Savior, His son- the man in agony pleading to avoid our punishment-  to not let the cup pass. So, “no” had to be the answer....it was the only answer that could save us.

I worry about my younger sisters, young in the faith who may fail because they think of our Father as a “Santa Claus” or “Fairy Godmother” who grants our wishes. I wonder if we have the faith to endure “no.” So, I will continue to pray because my Father wants to know my heart. I will continue to strive to seek His will in my prayer requests, that they will be about fulfilling His will- those who are struggling/ill will recover and return to being good soldiers in His kingdom. But, I will also accept that someone not recovering can be “no” for me, but save the soul of someone else. I will accept when my Father tells me “no” and I will learn to trust that “no” is sometimes just what is needed for His purpose and humble myself to recognize that His purpose is more important than mine, and His grace is all sufficient to live with a “no.”  

What if God.....

~Tracy Frederick

It seems so complicated doesn’t it? At least I think we make it that way. Recently I sent a dear sister a text asking for scriptures and some spiritual advice about a topic that I’ve struggled with for a long time.  It seems so complex to me. But, her answer was pretty simple: “ I always just  think of God...He ....”  It was that opening to a short sentence that pointed to “What would He do? How does He deal with this situation?” That makes sense, right? And it is pretty simple. Our Savior said that His followers would know the Father if they knew Him (Matt 11:27; Lk. 10:22, John 7:29 etc.). Paul told the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitated the Son  (I Cor. 11:1; 4:16; Phil 3:17; I Thess. 1:6).hummm ...nothing complex about it.  But, as with any good spiritual question, the answers led me to exam things a little deeper. I know that I am to imitate Him in all things, but ....what if He imitated me? So, I started considering......what if God were more like us...?

What if God.... talked about others like we do? .....behind their back? ...complained about others in gossip and slander?

“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”  Matthew 12:38 (see also: James 4:11, 12; James 5:7,9; James 5:10; James 3:6)

What if God..... treated others the way we do? What if God played favorites?

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:27 (see also: Romans 3:22; Galatians 3:26; Ephesians 2:14)

What if God....was as selfish as we are? What if He cared as much about His own comforts as we do?....would He have given His son for us?

“But God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8  (see also: John 15:13;  Romans 4:25; Romans 5:6; John 3:16; Eph 5:2 ; I John 4:19)

What if God...took us as seriously as we take Him?  Would we be ok with Him “fitting us into His schedule” when it was convenient?  What if He was too busy for us?

 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. Matthew 6:24   (see also: Gal 1:10; James 4:4)

What if God....... loved us as much as we love Him? I mean...real love- sacrificial, all our heart and  our being willing to give anyone and everyone up for Him....everything and everyone (Matt. 10:37)....yep...that agape love.

“...He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”  Hebrews 13:5  –He has never forsaken the faithful.   (see also:  Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 43:2; Ex 13:21; Deut 4:31; Deut. 31:6).

What if God was more like us...would He have given His Son to die for us? 

“For God so loved the world that He gave....” John 3:16. (Romans 8:32; Hebrews 2:9; I John 4:9; Rev 1:5)

These questions are absurd aren’t they? I mean, God is...well...GOD! He isn’t us, and that is the best part- He isn’t selfish like we are.....but He did make us to be His glory didn’t He? ouch....And...didn’t He ask us to love with an agape love? So, are we?  I think we allow ourselves the “out” to be selfish, unkind and unloving by saying...”we aren’t God!”  Or, “He knows I’m not perfect!” I’ve heard people use these kinds of statements as an excuse for bad behavior. But, we cannot deny that  He has given us all that we need to know to be like Him, or at least less like other humans:  “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, ³as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,  by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”  II Peter 3:2-4.

Then He not only told us, but He showed us how to do it: ” For we have not a high priest who cannot be touched with the feeling of our weaknesses; but was in all points tempted like we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15.

When we break it down, it really isn’t so complicated, is it? He took us- selfish, unloving, unkind and without hope and simplified it by offering His unselfish, loving, kind and compassionate Son for us. But, what if God....were like us? Would He have done that? Would He have followed through? Aren’t we glad that He isn’t like us?  Isn’t it time that we weren’t either?

What Love Costs....

~ Tracy Frederick

The flowers are beautiful, the ring magnificent, the stuffed animal precious and the selfie sweet. Ahhhhh….love….. I remember rushing from class because I couldn’t wait to read the note he left in my car letting me know that he was thinking of me. He never forgot, or was too busy. Later, I promised to love him for the rest of my life. He, my love, promised to love me all the days of his. I realize now almost 30 years later that I really didn’t know what love was, not real love. I quickly learned that it was more than sweet notes and lunches at Long John Silvers.  It was deeper than that and demanded more of me than I ever knew. It meant sacrifice. It meant forsaking all others, faithfulness, support and demonstration of that love. We expect those that love us to show us their love, not just profess it. So, we judge his  behavior as proving his love for us because he brings us flowers, gifts, or takes us to special dinners on special days…all at a cost….and if he forgets and fails to pay that cost….or chooses to do something else, we doubt his love...aren’t  I right? We know that love is shown by how much one is willing to pay, to sacrifice for our love. It is what makes it…well…LOVE. 

God paid the cost with sacrificing his son because he loves. ( John 3:16)

Christ suffered because He loves…was tortured because He loves…was humiliated because He loves…was tortured because He loves…gave all that He had because He loves….gave up his home because He loves…and has always…always remained faithful  and steadfast in His love.

 Christ never hurt us….never caused us to cry….never laughed at us…has always defended us…because He loves.

The sacrifice and cost that God paid for our love is undeniable. But, what has me wondering lately is if we really love. I mean, if love comes at a cost, if it is the essence of sacrifice to show/prove our love, if we insist that of others, can we excuse ourselves when we are asked to do the same?

If we claim to love Him….but are unfaithful because it is too inconvenient ….is it really love? (Rev. 2:10, James 1:12)

If we profess our love for Him….but don’t want to stop “cheating” on Him with our habits that disgust Him…is it really love? (John 14: 12-17)

If we confess loudly our love for Him…but ignore it when asks us to forsake all others for Him…is it really love? (Lk 10:27)

So, what I have been pondering lately is: If we SAY we love…and refuse to PAY the cost….is it really love?

Those sweet little notes my love left for me are precious to me and are in a box in my closet. I take them out and read them from time to time and remember those days. But, I learned pretty quickly that it was more than sweet notes that meant he loves me…So, isn’t it time that we call it what it really is if we aren't willing to pay?...umm…like?....ummm---someone we use when we need something or want something? Let's see.....ok..Someone to pay our fine when we need bailed “out of jail?” ….but please let's be honest and not call it love If we aren’t willing to give…sacrifice…that’s not  real love and we know it don't we…how do I know?....I know love because God showed me what love costs when it cost Him everything.

But you Didn't say I COULDN'T!

~Tracy Frederick

It is that time of the year again, time for school to begin and time for me to prepare for the upcoming semester. I sit here in front of my computer and stare at my syllabi… reading… rereading… …wondering: have I included everything? Did I leave anything out?  It is stressful for me- making sure all of the bases are covered. You see many years ago I was a young debate coach at a high school and was hosting a LARGE debate and forensics tournament. The faculty didn’t want me to host the competition there because…well…as you may know, debaters and forensics students have a reputation of behaving badly. I had to beg my fellow faculty to allow me to use their classrooms for the tournament. I  assured them all would be fine. I promised I would be responsible for any damages. I carefully worded the LONG list of rules for the competition and knowing the student’s reputations, and even asked the Athletic/Activity Director to be on site to deal with any issues…and of course…as you might have guessed….something happened.  The word got out that a LARGE (300+ lb) student had stood on a table in a classroom and fell through- breaking the table and leaving a large hole in the middle of it. I was furious. The table he destroyed was one of the faculty who, of course, was the hardest to convince to allow me to use his room. I immediately went to the student’s coach and told him that he would have to pay for a replacement. The coach nonchalantly said: “You didn’t say he COULDN’T stand on the table,” as he chewed on the snacks I provided in the coaches lounge and his student stood there smirking at me. I turned to the AD  (who had accompanied me to confront the coach) and…nothing… crickets.  So, I took the table from my room to replace the broken one, because I didn’t say he COULDN’T dance..yep you read it right…DANCE on top of the particle board table…..seriously.

So, after that I would sweat the beginning of the year as I tried to include EVERY possible problem/scenario that might arise. But, each and every semester, there was something new and the usual excuse: “You didn’t say I COULDN’T…”  swing from the rafters, phone a friend for exam answers, use their cell phones to cheat, etc.  And my syllabi grew longer…and longer… and I then learned that it was so long that they just didn’t read the rules…so I got the same excuses…sigh.

But, you probably understand how ridiculous this is, right? But, I hope also see the spiritual similarity here too, right? I hear it all the time: but God didn’t EXPLICITLY say “DON’T” or “I COULDN’T”… to which I reply….: God didn’t say: DON’T shoot up cocaine….or  DON’T smoke marijuana…or DON’T steal HER PURSE. So, why are we having this conversation???? Why are we looking for the “out?” or looking  for the specific lists of “don’ts” when there are so many lists of “do’s” that cover the don’ts?:

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. Romans 12: 1

…I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.  Ephesians 4:1

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Phil 1:27a

…. live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,  Colossians 1:10.

I could go on and on of the list of DO’s …but hopefully we realize the list of DON’Ts are pretty clear too:
The works of the flesh:  “I say then: For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.  18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,   idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,  envy, murders,[d] drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Gal 5: 16-21

“[they were] filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers,  backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,  undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful;   who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.”  Romans 1:29-31.
“Abstain from every form of evil.”  I Thessalonians 5:22.

There was a time when I worried about what I DIDN’T say, but not anymore. I realized that the students who are concerned with what I didn’t say are missing the point, and just looking to justify their bad behaviors and poor decision rather than just following what I tell them to DO. My Lord helped me realize that when He said: “Not everyone that says to me Lord, Lord shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21…no excuses…no “but you didn’t say I couldn’t”…He meant- just do what I tell you…no matter how hard…no matter how much I wish it wasn’t…not looking for an excuse…just do what He says. He’s pretty clear, wouldn’t you say? I don’t think “but you didn’t say I COULDN’T “ will work on Him either, do you?

Tracy is a Christian (Acts 2:38)  who strives to serve her Father and Savior,her husband, brothers and sisters, and others according to Colossians 3: 22-24. She fails to often, but is humbled by her Father's love, grace and patience. toward her. 

What It Really Means to Love Yourself

~Erin Blair

The Commandment:
In Matthew 22:36 the question is given to Christ: “Which is the greatest commandment in the law?” And, of course, as we all know, our Lord’s response was to “love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” And while there is a potential for several books to be written on the subject of the first and greatest commandment, we often spend less time considering the meaning of the second greatest. In Matthew 22:39 Christ gives us the second greatest of all the commandments “Love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Not many in our polite society will argue with the fact that we need to show love to our neighbors. We are oftentimes very adamantly supportive (especially financially) of those who are suffering in some way (much like the parable of the good Samaritan in Luke 10:30-35). Usually when preaching on being generous, kindhearted, compassionate and loving to our neighbors, there is not a shortage of Amen’s from the well intentioned individuals in the assembly. But, what is fascinating to me is how we have often overlooked the last phrase of that second commandment “as thyself”. And it seems to me that often times when we do note those last two words, it’s with the assumption that we all do fit that requirement of loving ourselves. Logic, in and of itself will tell us that in order to love our neighbor as we love ourselves, we must first love ourselves, for if we were to loathe ourselves and then treat our neighbors in the same manner, it would certainly not result in God’s delight. Sadly, because we live in a world full of self destruction through various practices and behaviors (both active and passive!), it is fitting and proper that we should learn what it truly means to love ourselves.

The Confusion:

Jesus said in John 13:35 that the world would recognize us by our true love for one another. The problem with so many in our modern day and age is that we are truly confused with what true love actually is. But why is there so much confusion? Are we as human beings becoming increasingly stupid? I think not. Perhaps for some the cause is true ignorance. They have not been properly taught (whether by example or by instruction) what true love is. We as Christians understand the concept of agape (or agapeo) love. We realize that to love someone means to do what is best for them. To give them what they really need and not just what they want. We understand this because we’ve seen this love exemplified to perfection through Christ (John 15:13). People are not ignorant of this love because its meaning cannot be seen, or because the correct answers are nowhere to be found. The reason why people are ignorant over true love’s meaning is the same reason why people are ignorant of any and all commands the Lord has given. Folks are too busy listening to the voices of their own desires rather than the voice of God. It is the age old problem of destruction via distraction. It is the age old problem of listening to the words emanating from our culture and from Satan “What you want is more important than what you need.” The message we hear from the world is that “love” is related to desire. In the world’s perspective, “love” is almost always linked to emotions, primarily what gives one the emotion of pleasure or “happiness”. This is one reason why so many in failing marriages believe that they are no longer “in love” because the element of infatuation and “happiness” has been absent for some time.  This is not to say that the Christian who seeks a Godly “love” is not a happy individual, but rather that they are not driven by something as fleeting as emotion, but instead by something much more substantial; the fulfillment of genuine needs. The difference between the two definitions can be easily seen in the way someone behaves during a relationship. The parent, spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend who defines love from a distorted and worldly view will give their loved one what they want because it will please them and make them “happy”. The one who uses God to measure what love is will give their loved one what they need because it is best for them, and because it will result in their loved one’s fulfillment. We do need to note, however, that in some happy and blessed instances, what someone needs happens to be exactly what they want. The problem arises when the two differ, and a choice between the two must be made. And sadly, it’s far easier to determine what someone wants rather than what they need.

The world says that to indulge your own desires is to love yourself. God says to love yourself, you must give yourself what you truly need, even if what you need is the very absence of what you want (Matt. 16:24-26).

Erin resides in Ben Wheeler Tx with her husband who preaches for the Ben Wheeler congregation. Erin has been involved with preparing and organizing the work of the church since she was a teenager by teaching all ages of Bibles classes, helping prepare and organize Ladies Days, Prom Alternatives, Youth Rallies and VBS.  She is currently works as a paralegal for a law firm. She and her husband also spend their time enjoying their sweet dog, chickens, ducks, quail…etc.  Life is never dull at her house.

 

All Things

~Tracy Frederick

It is probably the most well-known scripture, along with John 3:16. We see it on the backs of football uniforms, posted on Facebook, splattered on bumper stickers and even etched into under eye make-up, or shoe polish…or whatever that stuff is that football players put under their eyes. I have even heard it used in conjunction with losing weight. I imagine that if we asked people, even atheists to tell us a scripture they know, this would be in the top five or three. It is popular, but the way I see it used I wonder if the person understands the struggle and personal sacrifice this verse speaks of to gain the strength needed to endure “all things.” So, …quote it with me…you know it: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” It is that “all things” part that is the sticky one. All things, huh? Well, we’ll see….

It is in this first chapter that sets the tone and the purpose for that popular one verse everyone is wearing:

v. 27-30: “Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God.  For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me.”

Philippians, especially as of late, has become my go-to book. It instructs me to love no matter what; to endure no matter what; and to not let my own petty problems make me forget that my Savior gave up “all things” in heaven for us (Phil 2:7-8: “made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross”).  Philippians is a hard book, it is about standing strong in the midst of suffering and hardships for Christ- those “things.” Paul promises that true believers (obedient in all things- Acts 2:38, Rom 6:4, I Pet. 3:21, Col 2:12, Rom 4:20, Rev 2:10), in Philippi (or anywhere/anytime) will never have a ticker tape parade for the cause of Christ, will never be given accolades on the football field for the goals of the gospel, and household chores, sparkling white whites are of no concern in bringing glory to God. That’s not “all things.” Christ revealed to Paul “all things” that he would suffer (see Acts 9).

So, once again the question is a tough one:  what “things” do we “do” that need “strengthening” (or “enable/make strong”)? Football/sports “things?” Tough laundry stain “things?” Sounds ludicrous when we put it that way, doesn’t it? So…what is it? What I love about the Bible is the way it answers questions about itself. Did you notice the opening of the book, in the first chapter? “let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ…steadfast in the spirit…striving for the faith of the gospel….not terrified by your adversaries…suffer for His sake….” Yeah, “allll of those “things.” That is what Christ will strengthen us for, “all of the things” that are worthy of suffering.” After all, if we aren’t suffering for the sake of our Lord, how can I call myself worthy of “all of the things” He sacrificed and suffered for me? I admit that I hope we need strengthening in “all things”…don’t you? It means we are suffering to be worthy in “all things.”

Becoming like a Child

~Tracy Frederick

“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,  And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.  Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18: 1-4.

I have been honored to teach the two and three year old Bible class on Sunday morning for the last several years and it is my joy. On the rare occasion that I have to be gone, I assure my substitute that although they will fall in love with “my girls,” (or boys) they must give them back when I return! They usually look at me strangely as if to say: no problem! That is until they meet these sweet little souls.

On one particular morning we had class promotion and were expecting to welcome a new little girl in our class. Her grandmother was a little nervous and for weeks had been warning me that she would be difficult. I assured her that she would be fine and just to leave her with us and it would all work out. She still seemed nervous and looked at me either with doubt or that I was obviously out of my mind. So, on the morning our new sweet addition was on her way to class the little girl hesitated and started to cry. She wasn’t sure this was right. It looked a little scary. I looked a little scary. The room was unfamiliar. I assured the grandmother (and myself ) one more time that all would be fine and braced myself for lots of crying.

When her grandmother left, Makayla and I looked at the classroom decorations and discussed the wonderful animals, stars, fish, trees, etc. that God made. Then we watched for her classmates. I assure Makayla that Kynleigh and Tatiana would be here soon and she would love them (I was a little nervously I admit as my mind began to strategize how I would handle this). Finally, Kynleigh came bounding down the hallway with her usual wonderful smile from ear to ear. She quickly hugged Makayla and told her she loved her. Makayla wasn’t so sure about this. Kynleigh never seemed to notice and assured her that Bible class was fun and “we cannot cry, but must listen to Mrs. Tracy.”

We sat down and began our lesson. Makayla was fine for a few minutes, through the first song or two..but when we started our prayer Makayla began to whimper “I want mommy.’ I thought: Uh oh…then right on cue Kynleigh reached over and hugged her and told her “it is ok, we’re in Bible class!” Makayla pushed her away; she wasn’t having any of that. Kynleigh just looked at her as if she didn’t understand and said, ‘it’s ok. I just want to give you a hug. I think you need a hug.” Finally, after much coaxing Makayla allowed her to hug her, but was still upset. Kynleigh tried again: “Don’t worry. I love you and Jesus loves you too!”  This scenario continued: Makayla resisting, and Kynleigh assuring her that she was loved. Makayla pushing her away and Kynleigh insisting she loved her. Finally, our third arrived. Tatiana immediately became Kynleigh’s helper and sat on the other side of Makayla. She was surrounded. These two girls were going to love her and make her smile no matter how resistant she was to it. When she cried, they hugged. When she pushed them away they smiled and kissed her- or tried to. When she said NO! they laughed. When we sang our Genesis 1 song they showed her where heaven and the earth is. They showed her where to find Genesis 1 and 2 in her Bible. When we sang the song about how much we love and need the Bible, they made sure she had one and hugged it tight. When put the pictures of Abraham and Sarah on the flannel board, they explained to her that God chose Abraham because he obeyed. They explained to her that it was exciting because God promised Abraham that Jesus was coming! They told her “God promised.” And at each turn there was another hug or kiss, or compliment to Makayla about how pretty she is.

I watched these two little girls show unconditional love and concern for another little scared and lonely girl. I couldn’t help but think about my own actions and some of my adult brothers and sisters in Christ. I thought about how often when someone is unkind to us we just push back and turn away. I thought about how we often allow our own hurt to get in the way of helping someone who needs us. I thought about how I had allowed rejection to stop me from showing my love for another. I thought about how much I was like an adult.

Finally class was over much too soon, as always, and their mommy’s and grandmother came to pick them up. By that time Makayla had decided the hugs were kinda nice, the kisses were ok and that the Bible was something to love. She was happy.

That Sunday I was teaching three little girls to love God  and about how He cares for us in our time of need and sent Jesus to die for us because He love us. But, I am the one that learned the most valuable lesson that morning by two beautiful three year old girls. I learned that I, or we, could help ourselves out by stop acting like a grown up and act a little more like three year olds.   

 

Human Guesses or Godly Wisdom?

~Tracy Frederick

In my opinion, the only time to shop in Wal-Mart  is 7:00 a.m. on a Saturday morning. You have the store to yourself and there are plenty of checkers waiting for the crowds to arrive. That is why I was strolling (ok, for those that know me…hobbling) across Wal-Mart this morning  and glanced over at the book section. My eye was caught by a title:  Knowing the Heart of God.  My eyebrows raised ever so slightly and I stopped for a breather (you know they put everything you need a opposite ends)  and took a gander. I flipped through the book and read a passage or two in which the author “preached” his personal view of who God is. I flipped to the back and saw that it contained around 280 pages or so and then onto what others said about the book. I read:” J. I. Packer's classic has revealed to over one million Christians around the world the wonder, the glory and the joy of knowing God.” My eyebrows raised even more (they are now in my fuzzy hair).  I stepped back a bit and scanned the other “religious” books:  “Experiencing God”, “God is not Mad at you”, “Heaven is for Real” and the ever popular pop culture  phenomenon “Happy Happy Happy” in which there are a couple of chapters late in the book about the importance of teaching God. All of these books were well over 200 pages, even the book written by Phil Robertson. Who knew the guy could say so much?

Now, I understand that reading what a biblical (those who teach the precepts of the word, and “hold the mystery of the faith in pure conscience” I Timothy 3:9) teacher has written to gain encouragement and consider the word more close.  Jesus told His disciples to teach the word and that meant that they had to use their words to present His. Again, the biblical writer’s purpose is to consider the word more closely. Biblical writers point us TO the word not AWAY from it. They compel us to move AWAY from our computers and the blog, Facebook post, the paper book down and TOWARD picking up THE Book, the only text that gives Truth. I am always shocked when I hear brothers and sisters able to quote some religious teacher and then not be able to quote the plan of salvation. It is shocking to hear someone has read a 200+ page book written about God, or a 160+ page book written about a four year old’s view of heaven but haven’t taken the time to read the wonderful one chapter book, Philemon- a practical story about forgiveness in the words of the Creator of forgiveness.

But, don’t listen/read me anymore. Take a listen of our Father:

“the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” II Timothy 3:15-17.
“For whatever things were written before were writte
n for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4.
“…no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation,  for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” II Peter 1:20-21.

Well, we could go on and on, couldn’t we? But, as I stood there in Wal-Mart at 7:00 a.m. this morning that overwhelming sadness turned into an ache as I considered all those books and how many copies had been purchased to read ABOUT the Bible. I stood there looking at the display and noticed the couple of Bibles on the bottom row at the far end kinda looking neglected. As I walked away I felt ashamed for us and thought about my students. I often get an excuse from students who failed to complete assignments correctly. It goes something like this: Johnny: “Why did I make a bad grade? Susie told me how to do it.” To which I reply: “Did you take the time to read my instructions?” Johnny always answers: “No, I thought Susie knew.”  Yeah, Susie doesn’t know…. and neither do we, but we better find out from the one who wrote the instructions. I don’t think He will take that excuse. But, someone said it much better, didn’t He?  “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” II Tim 2:15.  “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” II Tim 3:15. “Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes” Deut 11:18. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding” Pr 3:5. “Your word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Ps 119:11. I think you get the idea....God says it better every time. 

Fear vs. Focus

~ Nancy Goring

     The other day, while watching the local news, the reporter was interviewing an Australian man who was a base jumper. For those who do not know what this “sport” is, they are the brave souls who parachute off of shorter heights, such as cliffs etc., instead of going up in an airplane. There is a limited amount of time for that parachute to open, so the shorter the distance up, the more likely the chute may not have time to open fully enough to break their fall. This man was scheduled to jump from the Liberty Memorial in K.C. MO. The reporter asked him if he was afraid. He replied that he absolutely WAS afraid and appeared to be so from his demeanor. Then she asked how he was able to control himself when he was up there looking down, knowing the time element involved. He simply said, “I am fearful every step of the way, until I am ready to jump and then I must focus. When I am focusing on what is happening at that very moment, my thoughts are concentrated on only what I am about to do. Fear is gone and Focus replaces the fear.”

     I couldn’t help but think how our spiritual lives are much the same. We must have complete focus when we are attempting to teach the Word of God to those who need it. There is no room for fear that they may not like us, or fear that they might get angry. Instead, we need to focus on what is the most important issue here – their eternal soul. Whether we are dealing with someone who has never been taught, or with someone who has gone astray, we are often fearful, and we should have a healthy fear; one of respect for the power and authority of God’s Word. That should never be taken lightly. The loss of one’s soul is of greater consequence than if we were in danger of losing our physical life, for the soul will live eternally somewhere – either with God in heaven or with the devil and his angels in eternal damnation. Yes, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God,” (Hebrews 10:31). Thus, we need that focus to be able to help bring others to Christ.

     We need to be focused in our own spiritual lives. There is no place for the fearful and unbelieving in the kingdom of God. As a matter of fact, John tells us in Revelation 21:8 that there is a place prepared for the fearful – the lake of fire which has been prepared for the devil! The preceding verse tells us that those who overcome will inherit eternal live and live with God. Where do you want to spend your eternity? If you want a home in heaven with God to live in eternal bliss with Him, there is no room for fear in your life; no room for fear of rejection when you must speak the truth, no room for fear of taking the gospel to the lost, no room for fear of lovingly letting a brother or sister know if they are in error, no room to be fearful to serve Him daily and let your light shine in a lost and dying world, whether it be in the workplace, school, the community or wherever your steps may lead you.

 John tells us in 1 John 4:18, “ There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” Do you love God; completely love Him? That is what the apostle is saying. When our love is perfect (complete; mature), we will not be fearful because we are focused, totally focused on Him. This will take much study, a great deal of prayer and a humble heart, but it can be done. Verse 17 of that same chapter tells us that we can have boldness in the Day of Judgment, if we spend our lives personifying the love of God to others. That’s what I want to do. And I know that is what you want for yourself as well! So let’s get focused, ladies, and make sure that we do not have a timid and fearful spirit that will keep us from spending an eternity with heavenly Father. My prayer is that I would be able to be with my Father, my Savior and the Holy Spirit, with all those faithful brethren who have gone on to their reward, and to be with each and everyone of you dear sisters. I just need to FOCUS.

 Nancy is the wife of Bill Goring, who serves as a gospel preacher and elder for the Chipman Road church of Christ in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. She has 4 children, 11 grandchildren and has taught Bible class for over 40 years, speaks at Ladies Day gatherings and has published several books including: Behavior Becoming Holiness: Studies in Titus Chapter 2 and Overcoming our Self-Imposed Prisons

YOLO

~Erin Blair

For those of you who have Facebook accounts or have much knowledge of the internet, you may have seen a phrase that has floated around that a lot of young people are using.  That phrase is “YOLO.”  Many of you read that and may have though, “What does ‘YOLO’ mean?” and quickly rush to the Webster’s Dictionary to look it up only to see that it is not in there.  “YOLO” is the acronym for “You Only Live Once.”  It is often used whenever someone does something not very bright, such as run a stop sign or speed down the highway.  They also often say it when they do something very unwise such as drink and drive, have premarital sex, or experiment with drugs.  They use the excuse of “YOLO” as a reason to do whatever they want.  But is this an accurate way of thinking?

We find in Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die,…” so you can say that yes, it is true that you only live once (“YOLO”).  But does that give us an excuse to do whatever we want?   The verse I just mentioned continues to say, “…but after this the judgment.”  Oftentimes, when someone uses the excuse of “YOLO”, they aren’t thinking of the consequences of their actions.  They aren’t thinking of the earthly consequences such as death, unwanted pregnancies, diseases, etc., and are most certainly not thinking about the eternal consequences of their actions.  A lot of the time they think, “Oh I’ll do such-and-such now, and ask forgiveness later.”  This is not the attitude a Christian should have (1 Cor. 6:12; Gal. 6:3).

Oftentimes when someone has the attitude of “YOLO”, they are only thinking of themselves; they are “in the moment” if you will.  They are thinking of the excitement of breaking the rules and running the risk of getting caught.  For many the thrill of danger lures them in and captivates them.  I mean, how many of us have seen that red button with the sign above it saying, “Don’t push this button!” and have not been tempted to push it?  Many get caught up in the excitement and adrenaline rush and throw “caution to the wind.”  But is this the attitude that Christ would have us wear?  Certainly not! 

When someone has the attitude of “YOLO,” they are usually only thinking of themselves.  They are usually not thinking of how their actions will affect others around them or people in the future.   Again, this is a destructive attitude for one to have (Matt. 19:30).  When someone does something with such reckless abandon, they typically are just thinking of making a name of themselves or advancing their personal status.  As Christ said in Matthew 19:30, “But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.” 

Like I said earlier, so many of our young people today use “YOLO” as an excuse to do whatever they want.  But is it really worth it?  Is it really worth it to sin and risk other souls because after all, “You Only Live Once.”

Erin is the wife of Jordan Blair and lives near Tyler, Texas. Erin teaches Bible class, helps with Ladies Days, has helped to coordinate teen activities and young women's activities.