MAGNETISM AND SPIRITUALITY!

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew chapter 6, verse 21; from the New International Version (NIV)

This morning, reflecting on what to write about today, my mind went back to my childhood and magnets. I remember being fascinated how that I could move a magnet towards a screw or nail, and magically that screw or nail would move–quickly move and attach itself to that magnet. I could pick up that magnet and that nail or screw would stay attached. For today’s younger folks that may sound silly. But remember, I didn’t have iPads, smartphones, or game consoles. And Al Gore was still developing the internet.

And what does this silly reminiscing have to do with the Kingdom Life? Glad you asked that question. It comes from today passage. The power of our treasure is just like that magnet–it pulls on our heart. Just as a piece of metal is powerless to fight the attraction of that magnet–so are our hearts unable to resist the pull of that treasure, whatever it might be. I know there are those who think and believe Jesus is speaking against monetary wealth; as if monetary wealth is the only Treasure. You know, money, cars, fancy houses, jewelry, and such.

Treasure can and IS more than money and what money can buy. The Greek word that Matthew used is thēsauros.  It means the things laid up in a treasury, collected treasures. Quick Greek lesson. It comes from the root word tithēmi which means to make (or set) for one’s self or for one’s use. Now get this, thēsauros can be literal (meaning money and all the stuff money buys) or figurative. It’s descriptive of other things as well.

Now, some people think that it’s their heart that is magnetic–that their heart does all the pulling. They declare this to be so. There’s another name for this other than magnetism. I call it good intentions. Truth is, our heart does not do the pulling–the heart is being drawn towards the magnet–that treasure–whatever it may be. Treasure is what we believe gives our daily existence purpose and life. And herein is the real problem.

Many have turned away from the tried and true Bible to whatever it is their heart tells them. If they feel or believe something–then that begins to pull on their heart until it has captured it. And to no avail, they believe that they can just draw God into their heart–just like a magnet. Really?

Why can’t our heart be the magnet? Well, here’s what Jeremiah had to say about it: The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve. This is exactly why Jesus said that our hearts are drawn to our defined treasure. Be it money, power, sex, and even our feelings.

Now, allow me to go back to an earlier statement: Treasure is what we believe gives our daily existence purpose and life. And it has to be coming into that relationship with Jesus–and on God’s terms. Wood isn’t drawn towards that magnet. Duh! And because of sin–our hearts cannot be drawn towards God. This is why we need the New Heart–being born again. It’s the new heart that’s drawn towards God. Make God your Treasure! Be drawn towards what God wants for your life. And what God wants for your life is right there in the Bible.

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CHURCH SIGNS 26 FEBRUARY 2023

AWAKENING! OH, IT’S HAPPENING!

So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’  The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.”

John chapter 3, verses 7 and 8; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

Unless you’ve been hibernating in some cave, hopefully you have heard by now about what’s been happening at Asbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky. On Wednesday, February 8, it started out as just another Chapel Service. Students are required to attend at least 3 per week. Zach Meerkreebs, an assistant soccer coach, was the speaker. He used Romans chapter 12 and talked about God’s love for them. At the end of the service, no one came to the altar. It was just another “Chapel” service. Even Zach felt that way. He texted his wife: “Latest stinker. I’ll be home soon.”

But. . .don’t you just love that word BUT. . .about 18 or 19 students remained in Hughes Chapel. And beginning at that moment, the Holy Spirit started to stir! Nothing phenomenal–but The Spirit was moving in those 18 or 19 students. One of those students stayed for about an hour before it was time to go to class. And when he came out of class, he heard singing something from the Chapel. His observation was: That’s weird! And a remarkable and powerful moment turned into an undeniable Awakening by the Holy Spirit.

And this Awakening has been going on since February 8, 24 hours a day. Today is the 24^th and it’s still going on. It spread from the campus into a nearby church. It’s spread from Wilmore, Kentucky to other states and campuses. It’s the work of The Holy Spirit. The only Superstar has been and continues to be Jesus! The Administration of Asbury were astute enough to recognize what was happening February 8. They knew and admitted that they didn’t start it, so they couldn’t control it. So they did what the Spirit wanted–they met in a janitor’s closet and became instruments of the Holy Spirit to organize–not what was happening. Rather, the find ways to quietly assist those who were showing up. One of the first decisions made was to keep Hughes Chapel open. Then they simply practiced radical hospitality. And that small town of a few thousand folks, grew into tens of thousands of folks simply seeking the presence of God.

Award winning Christian artist Keri Job was there. Not to sing, but to experience what the Holy Spirit is doing. Again, No superstars but Jesus! And there are those, known as Churchians and Tenured Pew Sitters, who are convinced there’s no hope for this world. That’s it’s going to hell in a hand basket. And the younger generation? Well, they are only making it worse. So much for that balderdash. I heard the story of 2 women in Brazil who sold their car to have the money to go to a little Kentucky town called Wilmore. Again, No superstars but Jesus!

There are the detractors–those who say it isn’t real–just hype and emotionalism. Of course, most of those detractors are in the dying camp called the United Methodist Church. Believe it or not–God Really Knows What He’s Doing! Shocking, right? Who would have thought that? I doubt that those first 18 or 19 students who stayed in the Chapel after that mandatory chapel service recognized what The Spirit was about to do. They just knew they needed to be there.

Listen, you can’t explain how the Holy Spirit works or moves. That’s exactly what Jesus told Nicodemus. Be prepared for what I am about to say: The Holy Spirit Doesn’t Depend On Us And What We Do! I know this isn’t what the Bishops and leadership of my former tribe thinks. But it’s The Truth! An assistant soccer coach who thought it “whiffed it”, and those 18 or 19 students who did not have a clue as to what the Holy Spirit was about to do, became those earthen vessels (or cracked pots as I like to say) for The Holy Spirit to move and work through.

You see, the work of the Holy Spirit cannot be planned nor orchestrated by any of us. All we need to do is to pray and surrender to Him! To do what the administration of Asbury did–to seek ways to give The Holy Spirit the freedom to move and work–and to make sure no one hijacked what The Spirit is doing. There were a few, very few, who tried to do just that. And because of their prayers and commitment to this Awakening, no human has been able to hijack the Sacred and Holy Movement. One person was even given a police escort off the campus.

And so, what does this teach us where we are at this very moment? Hopefully it teaches us to fall down before God. To confess our own sinfulness. To acknowledge our need for Jesus. And to rely completely on the Power, Work, and Movement of the Holy Spirit. Awakening is happening folks! And we do not have to replicate what they did at Asbury. We just have to throw ourselves completely upon the mercy, grace, and love of God. Then let the Holy Spirit BE the Holy Spirit!

Already one local television station announced the Awakening is over today. (see the article here) No it’s not! This is only the beginning! So, let’s step aside, Church. Let the Holy Spirit BE the Holy Spirit and be convicted and convinced that we depend on Him! Not the other way around.

I leave you with an appropriate song done by Ryan Stevenson:

(Here’s a link to a great article from Christianity Today)

JUST FLOATING AROUND!

“Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.  Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand.  When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.” When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, or he taught with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law.

Matthew chapter 7, verses 24-29; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

I know that the Chinese Spy Balloon, excuse me, “weather balloon”, is old news. But The Spirit prompted me this morning to think about that episode. And what the The Spirit said was provocatively simple. “Ever think about how many people are just like that balloon? Just floating around, without any real foundation for their life?” And do you know what my response was? I was heart-broken! Know why? Because The Father is heart-broken. How do I know this? Well, this parable that Jesus shared about the difference between being anchored to the Truth and just floating around. If you doubt my connection, then here’s another one:

When He saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Matthew chapter 9, verse 36 (NLT)

We need to have our lives anchored to Truth; not just any truth, but THE TRUTH! And contrary to popular opinion, we humans do not process THE TRUTH. Only God; and He has chosen to reveal THE TRUTH in what we call The Bible. We have to act upon The Word–by doing what The Word tells us to do. That’s the difference in the outcome of these 2 houses built by different builders. One had the foundation and the other didn’t. Now, progressive theology wants us to believe that the only thing that really matters is love. After all, that’s what Jesus did. Forget the rest, just love like Jesus. While this may sound good, it turns us into those weather balloons, just floating around being controlled by whatever the winds decide to do.

In that powerful Sermon On The Mount, Jesus said “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.  I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.” Friends, we must be anchored to The Word, The Bible because that’s exactly what Jesus wants us to do. It’s The Bible guides us and sets the boundaries for our lives. Without ALL of God’s Word, we build houses that simply will not stand up to life as it really happens.

And for anyone in my former tribe, the United Methodist Church (UMC), who thinks they can #StayUMC and still be faithful to God–remember this parable from Jesus, Himself. The leadership of the UMC is building a house upon the sand. And if you stay inside that house, don’t be surprised when it collapses all around you. Here’s a final question for you to consider: Do you want to build your life around human thinking, thinking that is flawed by sin? Or do you want to build your life upon the Word of the Perfectly Holy God?

Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.

Proverbs chapter 3, verses 7 and 8 (NLT)

JUST WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

¹ Then the Lord answered Job from the whirlwind:

² “Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? ³ Brace yourself like a man, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them.

⁴ “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much. ⁵ Who determined its dimensions and stretched out the surveying line? ⁶ What supports its foundations, and who laid its cornerstone ⁷ as the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?

⁸ “Who kept the sea inside its boundaries as it burst from the womb, ⁹ and as I clothed it with clouds and wrapped it in thick darkness? ¹⁰ For I locked it behind barred gates, limiting its shores.
¹¹ I said, ‘This far and no farther will you come. Here your proud waves must stop!’

¹² “Have you ever commanded the morning to appear and caused the dawn to rise in the east? ¹³ Have you made daylight spread to the ends of the earth, to bring an end to the night’s wickedness? ¹⁴ As the light approaches, the earth takes shape like clay pressed beneath a seal; it is robed in brilliant colors. ¹⁵ The light disturbs the wicked and stops the arm that is raised in violence.

¹⁶ “Have you explored the springs from which the seas come? Have you explored their depths? ¹⁷ Do you know where the gates of death are located? Have you seen the gates of utter gloom? ¹⁸ Do you realize the extent of the earth? Tell me about it if you know!

¹⁹ “Where does light come from, and where does darkness go? ²⁰ Can you take each to its home? Do you know how to get there? ²¹ But of course you know all this! For you were born before it was all created, and you are so very experienced!

Job chapter 38, verses 1 thru 21; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

Just who do you think you are? Maybe it was your Mother or Dad that asked you that question. Perhaps it was a spouse. Maybe a co-worker or boss. Or that know-it-all teenager living under your roof. Does God ask, or has God ever asked that question? You bet your sweet bippy! He did to Job, and still does today! Look at verse 2 again: Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? In other words, Just who do you think you are?

Anyone who uses that horrendous phrase The Patience Of Job is obviously ignorant. They haven’t really read his story. More than likely they heard someone read his story and blindly accepted their conclusion that Job was the quintessential model of patience. If you will carefully listen to Job’s comments and replies, as well as those of his who-needs-friends-like-these, well. . .there’s not much patience, if any at all. Job is, call it, upset, even angry with God. And who could blame him. Job, and those 3 alleged friends make the same critical error. They assume they know what God does and doesn’t do.

Enough about Job for now. What about today? Are there people out there who think they know exactly what God does, and exactly what God wants? In other words–Are they as smart or smarter than God? YOU BETCHA’!!!! And at this point, it would be easy to point out how Progressives fit the bill. No doubt, they do! But it’s not just the Progressive Crowd that does it. I find that at any point along the theological pendulum, one can begin to assume they know exactly what God thinks.

The results are that people begin to define what is what isn’t sin, rather than the Bible. People begin to assume, with great authority I might add, what it is that God wants us to do here on the third rock from the sun. And the arrogance appears when they believe that anyone who disagrees with them is wrong! And that they aren’t doing what God wants and aren’t believing what God wants them to believe. Today’s manifestations of the Job and his three friends mentality is leading us further away from the Kingdom. And further away from God’s heart.

We need the Bible because it and it alone reveals who God is and what God expects from us. What I mean is that we need the Bible–not interpretations of what it means. And we have to look at the Bible from the Big Picture, from beginning to end. It requires due diligence to see how it’s connected together. And to remember that some things we may not be able to understand, or cannot comprehend. Those times are when we simply trust the power and goodness of God that He would not allow something false to be in This Book.

When Scripture is not taken in its totality, when we insert our alleged wisdom, we are in vain trying to remake God in our image. Fact Time: We don’t know as much as God–we are not even in the vicinity. God knows this from experience. Think back to the Garden of Eden. What was Satan’s promise to Adam and Eve? YOU can be a god yourself! Without the Bible, every person is free to define “God” for themselves. And the result is chaos, confusion, and bondage. And it brings out the sarcasm from God: “Where does light come from, and where does darkness go? Can you take each to its home? Do you know how to get there? But of course you know all this! For you were born before it was all created, and you are so very experienced!”

CHURCH SIGNS 18 FEBRUARY 2023

LIVING IN DEFIANCE!

Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean He no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”)  No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

Romans chapter 8, verses 35-37; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

Defiance! What thought enters your gray matter when you see or hear this word? That teenager under your roof? That toddler trying to find themselves? That neighbor who refuses to follow the rules? The local anarchist? Most times the thoughts are about a rebel–someone who disregards decorum and the rule of law. But what if I told you there’s another side to defiance? A good thing about defiance? Look at the definition of defiance:

a daring or bold resistance to authority or to any opposing force.

open disregard; contempt (often followed by of):defiance of danger; His refusal amounted to defiance.

a challenge to meet in combat or in a contest.

Now, still think that defiance is a bad word? If so, think again. Every day of your life there is an opposing force coming against you; all in an attempt to deny you peace and confidence–confidence about the future–confidence in your abilities to handle life-as-it-happens. This opposing force has only a single desire: to break and crush you! Maybe it’s your finances; health; family; work; expectations of others; your own personal expectations; and the list goes on. Or maybe, just maybe, it’s some personal failure–even failing to be faithful to God. We call that kind of failure sin!

Whatever your opposing force may be, wherever your struggle is at, remember the question of Paul and his answer to his own question: Can anything separate us from God’s love? NO! NO! NO! A thousand times NO! Don’t give your opposing force the right to control you. Bring it to Jesus! Some say God never gives us more than we can handle. That just ain’t true! God’s love is always here for us. And God’s love is more than powerful enough to deliver us from that opposing force! Even if we don’t or can’t see how.

Everyday has it’s challenges. And what we need is to bring those challenges to God. If it’s sin–then ‘fess up and ask Him to take away that authority sin holds over you. Get this: Every opposing force is powerless against God’s love for you. He’s our Savior! Our Deliverer! He was defiant against the pain on that cross. Heck, He was even defiant against the power of the grave. Whatever force is opposing you right now–run! Run to God! His arms are wide open! And they are open for you! Live defiantly against sin and all its various forms!

JUST WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU ARE GOING?

Abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by God.

Hebrews chapter 11, verse 10; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

Just where do you think you are going? Maybe you’ve heard those words from your mother; or maybe a not-so-happy spouse. But it is a great question; so great, that it’s worth asking ourselves everyday. Even several times a day. Here’s you some profound wisdom: Everyone is going somewhere! Did you know that? Hopefully you did. Life is always heading in some direction. Even the person who seems to be clueless and directionless, they are heading in a direction. Even those who say, “I’m not going anywhere” is going somewhere.

Life is not static; it’s dynamic. It’s like a stream being fed from some underground source, always moving and going. And there are 3 undeniable things that determine where you are going. Want to know what they are?

1. Your values
2. Your desires
3. Your goals

Values determine what is really important to you. Well, truthfully they tell what is MOST important to you. Those values shape and form your desires. Desire is always controls by our values. And those desires will always, always, always, reveal your goals. And those goals define where you are going; in your life and with your life. There are no exceptions to this truth. Notice what isn’t in the 3 undeniable things that determine your direction: Intentions! It’s being played out everyday. And without the right values, your life is headed in the direction of a hot mess and train wreck all rolled upon into one.

Our values must be rooted in God and His Word (the Bible). Try as some may, we cannot disconnect God from The Bible. In fact, the attempts to disconnect God from the Bible is why our culture is going in the direction it’s headed. There must be an absolute when it comes to values, or call it The Truth. When human beings are in control of defining values, it creates desires that are contrary to God’s Will and Design. And those desires establish the goals of what one wants in life. And it creates their final destination. If our culture would learn just one thing from the life of Abraham, it should be that our values are to be rooted in the trustworthiness of God. Then the rest of it will be there for us. Abraham didn’t have The Bible to help him–but we do.

NEUROSCIENCE IS BETTER THAN GOOD THEOLOGY!

We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.

2 Corinthians chapter 10, verses 3 thru 5; from the New Living Translation (NLT); emphasis mine

Some may think I am disqualified for saying anything about the United Methodist Church (UMC) because I left. If they want to think that way, feel free to do so. But I spend 66+ years in the Methodist/United Methodist Church. They had abandoned me long before I left them. And I have friends who still think it’s OK to stay in the UMC. Therefore, I am still qualified to speak into the 21st century version of the Titanic. And a recent article only affirmed that I was listening to The Holy Spirit in the choice and decision to leave the UMC.

On 8 February 2023, the United Methodist News Service shared an article by Rev. Taylor Burton-Edwards titled Using Our Brains: A Proposal for General Conference. He would have the delegates for the upcoming 2024 General Conference rely on their brains rather than good solid biblical and Holy Spirit inspired theology. Well, here’s some of what Rev. Burton-Edwards wrote:

How can next year’s General Conference make good decisions about the future of The United Methodist Church? I’d like to offer a perspective and several concrete suggestions about how to make sound decisions — and feel good about them — grounded in what neuroscience and neuropsychology have been discovering over the past several decades.  There are two pairs of best practices in decision-making one can derive from this literature. One is about reducing: Reduce the number of options and stressors. The other is about building: Build consensus and satisfaction. The first two relate to how our brains are structured to help us make significant decisions about new or complicated situations (neuroscience). The second two relate to internal and external factors that can influence our ability to persevere through a difficult decision process and feel good about it when we’re done (neuropsychology).  Attending to these best practices can set up the Charlotte meeting of General Conference in 2024 to deal successfully with perhaps the most momentous decisions it will have made since the Dallas meeting in 1968 that created The United Methodist Church.

Rev Burton-Edwards

Don’t misunderstand me. I want the UMC to be healed and move forward in God’s Kingdom. It would fill me with Great Joy to see a revival break out like it has been happening at Asbury. His answer to the quagmire of the United Methodist Church is neuroscience and neuropsychology. When I read that, my brain went immediately to the Scarecrow from The Wizard Of Oz. If he only had a brain! Now, I’m not against thinking and using our brains. God knows I wish more people would! But to base the future of a church solely on the brain? And then expound that it will solve the spiritual problems and move them forward into a better future? Geez, Louise! It seems to me that brains without The Spirit is what led the UMC to this point in history.

Now, I am like an umpire or referee. I only call it like I see it. And here’s how I call it. Neuroscience and neuropsychology have become the Baal of the modern United Methodist Church. Did I offend someone? Oh, well. The Truth has a tendency to offend at times. This is one such time. To remain a United Methodist is to bow down to Baal–the Lord of neuroscience and neuropsychology, rather than The Lord Of Lords and King Of Kings. It’s replacing Jesus as the Head of the Body of Christ with the head of neuroscience.

Does anyone want to speculate on the final outcome if this madness continues? Without knowing it (but then again, maybe he did) John Wesley made this comment, and I will leave you with it:

I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out.

-John Wesley-

MASHED UP LIKE TATERS!

But, my child, let me give you some further advice: Be careful, for writing books is endless, and much study wears you out.

Ecclesiastes chapter 12, verse 12; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

But regarding anything beyond this, dear friend, go easy. There’s no end to the publishing of books, and constant study wears you out so you’re no good for anything else.

Ecclesiastes chapter 12, verse 12; from The Message (MSG)

Please forgive me, but today’s thoughts are just a bit lengthy. Just in case you haven’t noticed, I haven’t written anything lately. And truthfully? I don’t have a single good excuse. Heck, I don’t even have a bad excuse. But there is a reason why. Of course, there is always a reason why for everything. And, as painful as it is for me to admit it, it wasn’t a good reason; not in the very least. It’s no where near the level of what some consider to be a justified reason! I have been, and continue to be overwhelmed by a lot of thoughts. Some related. Others unrelated. My thoughts have been and are still looking like mashed taters. Not the kind you measure out of a box or pack, but the real thing. You have to be from the south to get that image.

After a short time at home, we departed Wednesday morning at 2:20 a.m. to return to Florida. Before you get images of white sandy beaches and splashing waves, we are in Bartow, which is over an hour to the nearest beach. We came back for our family. Debbie’s “cousin-more-like-a-sister” died January 18 and according to her wishes was cremated. This past Saturday was her Celebration Of Life Service and Michelle’s husband, Ken, asked me to lead it off. Ken and Michelle are more like brother and sister to me, and honestly I struggled with what to say.

Then we received word that a great friend of ours, Ben, was near death. Apparently he had a heart attack which led to a wreck as he was heading to work. He has been on a ventilator since January 31 and today, they will be removing that ventilator and allow nature to take it’s course. His mother, Donna, had asked if I would do his service. And of course I said “Yes”. And one day after one service, I was trying to put some thoughts together for Ben’s family.

And, now I will explain today’s title. Saturday morning it all boiled over. I went out on the back porch with another cup of coffee (I can’t remember which number it was). The sun was up and the lake in front of me was beautiful as usual. And though I should have been thinking about and focused on Michelle’s Celebration, I noticed my brain was thinking of a lot of things. Though Daddy died a little over a year ago and my sister, Jackie, had died nearly a year and a half ago, I found myself thinking and grieving all over again. Then I had thoughts about the garden I wanted to plant. About plans for next year’s deer hunting. A repair to one of our vehicles. About the church. About this, that, and the other, and that other thing, oh, and that other thing. And one other thought: I’m so tired to doing funerals and even celebrations!

And that last thought just ain’t a nice thing for this Preacherman to say; or any other pastor/preacher to say as far as that goes. These words started to roll off my tongue: Why are all these thoughts running wild like kids leaving school at the end of the day in my mind??? But I didn’t finish them before The Spirit said, “Because you’ve given them permission to be there! Duh!” I failed to heed The Sage, Solomon, and his words: constant study wears you out so you’re no good for anything else. (MSG) Yes! Preacherman who advocates, preaches, and teaches that we control what we think–had given permission to my thoughts to run wild.

I know that the translations use the word study, but what is thinking but studying? Or what is studying but thinking? And I was thinking/studying about a lot of things; too many things. And I was worn out and no good for anything else. So, what did I do? I admitted my problem! I needed to change my choice of thoughts. Did that solve my problem? Absolutely NOT!!! But it did move me back in the right direction. It’s still a struggle. No, I take that back! It’s a war going on inside this skull. So I fight–not with my strength or my weapons. I’m heeding the admonishment of Paul found in Ephesians:

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.

Chapter 6, verses 10-13 (NLT)

Today, they will be disconnecting Ben from the ventilator. Today I will be finishing up the words that need to be said. Today I will begin waiting for that call from Donna. Today I will be packing up to leave early in the morning to head back home–and to another funeral service. Today, well, it’s today. And all those thoughts that are like mashed taters? To be truthful, that tater masher is still at work. But I am now relying on HIM to help me in this battle. And the ebb of this conflict is now going in the right direction. With God’s Grace and help, and with my surrender to Him, things are getting better. I still don’t like it–but it’s still getting better. And The Spirit who has got me this far–will get me through this, too. Oh, and if you don’t have anything to do, will you say a prayer for us?

SETBACKS!

Then the entire town came out to meet Jesus, but they begged him to go away and leave them alone.

Matthew chapter 8, verse 34; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

Sometimes my writings and my sermons talk about things that not everyone has experienced. The old saying, “You just had to be there” comes into play. And hopefully those that were there found something that encouraged them. But today’s subject matter is something I am highly confident that everyone has experienced: Setbacks! You didn’t get that promotion. You didn’t get the job. Someone close to you had a serious medical situation and it looked like they were about to recover–but had to go back into the ICU. Or how about congregations in the North Georgia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church who were blocked (you can read about it here) from pursuing disaffiliation from the United Methodist Church thanks to the leadership of Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson just before she left town.

Setbacks are agonizing and arduous. They cause a myriad of questions to rise to the surface. Those questions can come at us one right after another, after another, after another–seemingly non-stop. But what if I told you that Jesus understands the ache caused by setbacks? Case in point: today’s epic sage. Jesus had just done the impossible–drove out those demons who had taken over the lives of 2 men. Those 2 must have been at least a nuisance to the community–if not an outright danger. Now their problem had been solved. They should be grateful! Right?

But they weren’t! In fact, they didn’t thank Jesus for helping their community! Instead they asked Him to leave; just leave! Think about it! Jesus teaching in that village and those 2 formerly demon-possessed men standing next to Him; clean, dressed, and in their right mind! Boy! What a right and ripe opportunity for Jesus! If I were one of those original disciples I would be excited about what would happen next! Instead Jesus, and thus His disciples, were persona non grata!

I can’t speak for you, but I can and will for myself–now that would have definitely be filed under the category of setbacks! So what does Jesus do? How does He respond to this setback? Chapter 8 doesn’t say–but Chapter 9 tells us. We see in verse 1: “Jesus climbed into a boat and went back across the lake to his own town.” This setback doesn’t derail Jesus. He stays focused on The Mission that defined His Purpose. And what does this teach us when setbacks create painful glitches? Glad you asked.

Though a circumstance has changed because of that frustrating setback, not everything else has changed. Do what the most prolific songwriter of all times did when he had a setback. What did David do? Great question! He wrote songs, and one in particular: Psalm 103. Part of his song goes like this; and I use the King James Version for it’s poetic language:

² Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

³ Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

⁴ Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

⁵ Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

KJV

In the middle of that setback you need to remember! Not all those other setbacks! No! Remember all the good things God has done in your life. Remember you are not alone. You’ve never been alone, though it may have felt like that. And you will never be alone, even if you think you will be. God has been preparing you for that setback. Maybe it was a song you heard. Or perhaps it was a book. Better yet, maybe you learned some important principles that at the time, you didn’t understand why the Spirit was teaching you that. I have numerous stories of God teaching me some things that at the time I didn’t know why; but later I did.

In the harrowing and heart-wrenching times of setbacks, when questions and emotions erupt like a volcano, we have two clear-cut and conflicting choices. One choice is to stay focused on the setback with all its pain and questions. But there is that other option; it’s not always easy and requires much, scratch that–it demands a whole lot of self-discipline. It’s what David did; and it’s what Jesus did. They remembered the Faithfulness of God. If you don’t think that God is faithful to you–then you’ve bought the lie of Satan, hook, line, and sinker. I wouldn’t be writing this today if it wasn’t for God’s faithfulness. He led you through other setbacks. And He has been preparing you for this setback, or the next. Whichever the case may be. And His strength and guidance is ready for each and every setback.

When we remember all God’s benefits–then and only then–can we know that this current setback or that future setback is neither final nor is it fatal. So, sing David’s song and as you do–get ready to remember all that God has been doing in your life.

CHURCH SIGNS 5 FEBRUARY 2023

Life Hack #1

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.  God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

2 Timothy chapter 3, verses 16 and 17; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

I will, from time to time, as I am inspired, maybe perspired, add to my writings some Life Hacks. A Life Hack is any trick, shortcut, skill, or novelty method that increases productivity and efficiency, in all walks of life. In other words, wisdom that will better enable us to successfully navigate the muck, mire, and misery of life on this third rock from the sun. Not all of them will be original thoughts from me; some will be something I saw or read. I just so happen to have the first one ready today. Here it goes:

The Greek word Paul used for Scripture is graphē and it means a writing, thing written. Not a feeling. And certainly not an opinion. I’ve said it before and will keep on saying it: If the Bible is inaccurate, it means that God either didn’t care, or was incapable of stopping it from happening. In either case, that’s not a “god” I would want to give my life to. So, if you want to improve productivity and efficiency in your life, then don’t change the Bible, change yourself!

IT’S IN THE DETAILS!

The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.  But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures,  idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

Galatians chapter 5, verses 17 thru 21; from the New Living Translation (NLT) (emphasis mine)

It’s been over a year and it should be finished by now. In the State of Alabama, it only takes 6 months to probate an estate. But it’s not! And it’s all because this alleged attorney who allegedly specializes in estate law left out some details–important details! I’ve confessed and repented to God, and now I will to you, also. I allowed this alleged attorney to lead me into forgetting the peace of Christ and patience. Please forgive me because I’m the one who is called to live by the standard. But with all my wrong choices yesterday, The Spirit manages to teach me something–something important! IF I am listening. And I was this morning.

Ever heard the expression The Devil Is In The Details? It means the details of a matter create the biggest problems. Am I right? Of course, I am! My former (the United Methodist Church) tribal leaders are, and have been for some time, preaching and teaching that the details, the details of living a Holy Life, are not to be found in The Bible. The only thing that matters is love. And this kind of love can only be expressed in terms of acceptance and approval. And all those details about sin revealed in Scripture and by The Holy Spirit? They simply don’t exist. Thus, sexuality is determined by feelings, which is simply another way of saying sinful nature. Ignoring the details has exploded, making the church impotent, and unleashed gender dysphoria.

Amazing (but not really) how progressive theology overlooks what Paul told this church in Galatia. Read and reflect on the opening line in verse 17: The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. This sinful nature is what is in all of us and controls all of us–that is–until we admit we are a sinner and get sick and tired of being controlled by that sinful nature and ask God to transform us by giving us a New Nature. News Flash: the sinful nature is revealed in the details of sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures,  idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Disagree with Paul? Disagree with me? Well, guess what??? You’re still wrong! And if you, and my former tribal leaders, persist in this current course of disregarding the details of the sinful nature, then anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

Yesterday afternoon, and into the evening, I opened the door to my old sinful nature. And it was ugly; I mean pure ol’ ugly, you-ain’t-got-no-alibi-ugly! And the disgusting irony of it all is that while I was grumbling and complaining about an alleged attorney who forgot the details, I had forgotten the details. Yes, the Devil is in the details. But so is God! In this Sacred and Precious Word we call “The Bible” is every detail we need to recognize and live the Holy Life–which is the ONLY life that God wants from us. I leave you with a challenge from Paul, one he gave to another church–and to all future Followers Of Jesus!

Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception.  Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.  Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.

Ephesians chapter 4, verses 22 thru 24; NLT; (emphasis mine)

THE REAL DEFICIT IN OUR NATION!

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.

James chapter 1, verse 5; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

Currently, according to the Treasury Department, the debt of the United States government is over 36 trillion dollars. How is that possible? Well, the answer really is simple. The government has been spending more money than it takes in. It’s called deficit spending. If I were to deficit spend, my bank either charges me an exorbitantly high service charge or they bounce the check or decline the debit transaction. It would seem to me that our government should stop spending more than it takes in. But, then again, I’m not a politician, thank God!

36 trillion is a lot of dough–but there’s an even higher deficit going on right now. It’s called wisdom! I grew up in an era where people were encouraged and expected to develop wisdom, otherwise known as common sense. What I want to know is that if it’s common sense, why is it so uncommon these days, especially in the church? And this morning I know the answer. Would you like to know the answer? Well, I’m going to tell you whether you want to know the answer or not.

The lack of wisdom, or “common sense”, that has invaded this land more than COVID is rooted in where people are looking for and seeking after WISDOM! Wisdom always comes from outside ourselves. Unfortunately, people are looking in the wrong places. They look for it in pop psychology, social trends, egotistical social influencers, political ideologies, or blogs like Hacking Christianity. Yes, I intentionally chose Jeremy Smith because of his over-inflated ego. And his obvious lack of wisdom.

Information alone doesn’t enable us to successfully navigate life and avoid its pitfalls. Here is why: Information tells us things–but wisdom shows us how to use that information in the best possible ways. Wisdom takes information and applies it to real life as it happens. And the only source for Wisdom is the one James, the half-brother of Jesus, tells us about. Ask God! In fact, God loves it when we ask Him for wisdom! I love how The Message puts it: “If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it.”

Truth Time, people!!! We don’t know how to live life as God designed it without His Wisdom! We don’t know what we’re doing without His Wisdom! And here’s the thing no one like Jeremy wants to admit: God’s wisdom always runs counter-cultural to what the world says! So, are you confused? In a jam? At a dead-end? God knows what He is doing. So, why not ask Him? The results of asking and applying (since wisdom is lacking in so many lives I have to add applying) His wisdom will get us out of this hot-mess. And it will certainly restore our joy and hope in life. You can be wise if you seek God’s wisdom. Or you can just be dumb, if you so choose. And it is your choice.