Morning Meditation

Do you know that you can be a Christian without ever joining any denomination? That’s right! YOU CAN BE A CHRISTIAN WITHOUT EVER JOINING ANY DENOMINATION!

People are often surprised to learn when they read their New Testaments that the various religious groups we know of today are never mentioned. Denominations as we know them are of relatively modern origin.

It is thrilling to learn that what made people “Christians only” in the first century can make people “Christians only” in the twenty-first century. God’s word is called “the seed.” Seed produces after its own kind. Apple seeds produce apples. Orange seeds produce oranges. God’s seed produces Christians.

This message is presented to urge you to be “Christians only.” Friend, if we believe and do what people believed and did in the New Testament days, we will be what they were then — Christians — Christians only. We plead with you to simple New Testament Christianity.

Let me tell you about one of the strangest court cases in American history.

Back during the days of the pony express, two men robbed a pony express carrier. They were caught, convicted, and sentenced to die by hanging. Friends brought the case of one of the men to the attention of the President of the United States. The President then signed a pardon for the one man. When the pardon was presented to him, he replied, “No thank you, I will die with my friend.”

That man would have been free. Free to live and to do whatever he chose to do. But he rejected his pardon.

There is, however, something stranger still. Everyday in this world men live under the penalty of spiritual death that ultimately will bring about eternal separation from God. Jesus Christ died on a cross and offered a pardon to all those who would accept it. Yet, millions die having rejected the pardon.

The FBI occasionally puts out a listing of the most wanted men in America. God has His list of most wanted men too. Here are some:

The man who puts God before his business or other involvements.
The man who brings his children to worship services rather than just sending them.
The man who is willing to set a godly example for his children.
The man who thinks more of Bible classes than he does of sleeping late on Sunday morning.
The man who measures his giving by what he has left rather than what he has given.
The man who goes to church services for Christ’s sake rather than to please someone else.
The man who wants to help others rather than having others help him.
The man who sees his faults before he sees faults of others.

The prophet Micah wrote, “And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

In the past thirty-five years we have changed our minds about a lot of things including some things that we viewed as clearly right or wrong.

Moral judgments are not made much anymore, especially not in the printed page or on television. Among intellectuals and commentators, judgment was long ago replaced by therapy. Ministers and priests have given way to clinics and counselors.

The Unites States today has problems with drugs, high school sex, aids, and rape. None of these will go away until people in positions of responsibility come forward and explain in frank moral terms, that some of the things people do nowadays are wrong.

The prophet Isaiah wrote, “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness!” (Isa. 5:20)

The prophet Jeremiah gives us the right direction: “a man's way is not in himself, Nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps.” (Jer. 10:23)

Theodore Roosevelt once said, “It is not the critic who counts, pointing out how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds should have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, but knows great enthusiasm and great devotion and spends himself.”

It is always easy after an event for someone to say, “I would have done it differently.” Monday morning quarterbacks are not hard to find after the game has been played. It is much like the weather; everybody talks about it, but no one does anything about it.

The Bible says that we all shall stand before the judgment seat of Christ (2 Cor. 5:10). Live today so that you will not say in that day, “I wish had done things differently.” No man is promised tomorrow.

An Indian and two cowboys had ridden hard since daylight. Toward evening the cowboys talked hungrily about the big meals they would eat when they got to town. When one of them asked the Indian if he was hungry, he shrugged and said, “no.”

Finally arriving at their destination, the three ordered steaks with all the trimmings. As the Indian proceeded to wolf down everything in sight, one of his friends reminded him that less than an hour ago he had told them that he wasn’t hungry.

“Not wise to be hungry then,” he replied, “No food.”

Every day food is available for the soul in our Bibles. The question is “are you hungry?” Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.

Have you ever watched a bird sleeping on its perch and never falling off? How does it manage to do this?

The secret of the bird not falling off its perch is in the tendons of the bird’s legs. They are so constructed that when the leg is bent at the knee, the claws contract and grip like a steel trap. The claws refuse to let go until the knees are unbent again. The bended knee gives the ability to hold on to his perch so tightly.

From sleeping birds we learn the secret of holding on to things that are precious to us. The secret is in the bended knee of prayer.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:17 the Revised Standard Version reads, “Pray constantly.” We are to give thanks always for all things (Eph. 5:20). James 5:16 reads, “The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.”

Prayer is our communication avenue to God! Are you taking time to talk with God each day?

A man walked up to a vending machine, put in a coin, and pressed a button labeled “coffee, double cream, sugar.” No cup appeared, but the nozzle went into action sending forth coffee, cream and sugar. After the proper amounts had gone down the drain, the machine turned off.

“Now that’s real automation!” exclaimed the man. “This thing even drinks it for you!”

That is just how some people want their religion. They want to make a deposit, put in some money, and let the rest be taken care of automatically. But there is no such thing as automated devotion, automated prayers, automated worship, or automated service in benevolence. The religion of Jesus requires personal engagement. Beware of automated religion.

2 Corinthians 5:10 says, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”

Two young brothers played in the local softball league. One year they found themselves on opposing teams. When the older brother’s team won, the younger brother was sad. But the next time his team won he was still sad. His father questioned him about it and he replied, “Yes, I won, but my brother lost. I wish there was a game where everybody could win.”

There is a race where everyone can be a winner. It is called the Christian life. Everyone can win, regardless of race, social status, or abilities. The winners receive redemption, hope and fellowship with the saints and eventually a crown of righteousness. The winner’s circle is a glorious place, and there is room for all.

1 Corinthians 15:57 says, “thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Everyone can be a winner, in Jesus Christ!

A woman was having difficulty getting her automobile started after it had stalled in traffic. The guy in the car behind here became really impatient and began to blow his horn every few seconds while she frantically tried to start her car.

A guy in another car (a gentleman) saw the lady’s trouble and left his car to give her some assistance. With his aid, she was soon on her way.

This illustrates the way most people are. There are those who see something wrong and just complain and blow their horns. Others see things that are wrong and quietly go about doing what they can to improve things.

It is that way in our nation, our homes, our schools and in the church. There are usually more talkers than workers and more critics than helpers. The ones who do the most “horn blowing” usually do the least work. What wonderful changes would come to our world if we would live like God tells us to.

Several years ago the Vatican undertook a restoration project of the paintings that cover the ceilings of the Sistine Chapel. It seems that these once vibrant and beautiful paintings of Michael Angelo had become darkened and grayed through the years by dust, grime and soot.

Carefully, by applying pastes of mild solvents, the dirt and grime was slowly brushed away. When they were finished the colors came alive again, and the paintings were seen in a beauty with which they had not been seen in many centuries.

I see in this a parallel to religion. No one can doubt, when reading the New Testament, that the church in its infancy was exciting and vibrant. However, down through the years of synods and councils, our religious world has become very confusing and the church sometimes lifeless. What then are we to do?

I propose applying a solvent—the Word of God. Let us throw away all of the manuals, creed books, and disciplines, and go back to the Bible alone.

A day that will live in infamy. I'm not talking about December 7, 1941. I'm talking about January 22, 1973. That is the day the United States Supreme Court ruled that it was legal to murder the unborn child.

Each year since then, more than one million lives are taken by abortion. The number of lives lost at the hands of the abortionists since the Roe vs. Wade decision is well about 60,000,000 as of August 1987. Did you know that nine wars spanning 205 years from 1775 to 1991 caused 667,186 American deaths? Yet abortion now takes approximately 1.5 million lives each year. That is more than two per minute!

The Bible says, “ For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.” (Psalm 139:13,14). And that God hates those hands shed innocent blood (Proverbs 6:17). America would do well to heed the advice of Rueben, “Do not sin against the child” (Genesis 42:22). Think about it!

Many years ago, a prophet of God wrote, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil…” (Isaiah 5:20).

It occurs to me that we are part of a generation that is doing exactly that. The drunkard is no longer a “sinner;” he is just “sick.” The couple who lives together before marriage are not “fornicators;” they have a “meaningful relationship.” The person who goes shopping half-naked is not “immodest;” that person is just conforming to the “fashion” of our day.

Changing the name of something doesn’t make it any less bad. It just makes it less recognizable. If you and I were in a field together, and I said, “There is a long slender reptile.” Wouldn’t you have moved quicker if I had just called it a “snake?”

Friend, I want you to know that drunkenness, immodesty, and sex outside of marriage are still condemned by the Lord, and they which do such things shall not inherit the Kingdom of God (Galatians 5:19-21).

When was the last time you heard a sermon and, because of what you heard, changed the way you were living?

In Acts 2, people were told they had killed the Son of God and when they heard it, they were cut to the heart and asked what they should do.

The apostle Peter told them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins. The Bible says that those who gladly received the word did what they were told.

But, in Acts 7 people were told they had killed the Son of God and they became so angry they refused to listen. They threw stones the preacher until he died.

What a contrast! Both audiences were told they had sinned. But one group repented and the other group defiantly rebelled.

When the preacher tells you something from the Bible that makes you know you are guilty of sin, how do you react?

One day a teenage boy, rather small for his age, got the job as errand boy in an office. After working a few weeks, his employers were teasing him about being so small and one said, “You’ll never about to much you are too small.”

The boy looked at them and said, “Well, I may be small but I can do something which none of you men can do.” They asked, “What is it?” He replied, “Well, I don’t know if I should tell you.”

But they urged him to tell. So, finally, he said, “I may be small but I can keep from cursing and you big men can’t do that.”

The Bible teaches you to let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth (Ephesians 4:29). Christians are supposed to have clean speech. Jesus said that what comes out of the mouth comes from the heart (Matthew 15:18).

Some time ago I read about a woman who had died and her husband requested that when she was placed in the casket that she have an open Bible in her hands. The husband explained that she looked more natural that way. I thought about what a life she must have had to have been remembered in such a way. This couple had been married 53 years and had five children, with 15 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. All who were old enough were Christians.

Isn’t this evidence enough of the influence of a Bible-reading life?

Now what if someone put the thing in your hands that seemed most appropriate after you die? What would it be? A cigarette? A bottle? Car keys? TV Guide? Think about it. What object would your family pick that would most accurately represent you life?

“Be diligent to show yourself approved by God…handling accurately the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15).

Did you know that the bumblebee cannot fly? That’s right; according to the theory of aerodynamics, the bumblebee cannot fly. Why, it can be easily demonstrated through laboratory tests and wind tunnel experiments — the bumblebee cannot fly. That is because the size, weight, and shape of the body, in relation to the total wing span, make flying impossible. But, the bumblebee, being ignorant of the theories of science, goes ahead and flies anyway.

I tell you this to remind you that man’s knowledge is still limited; and that the God who made the earth and everything in it is unlimited in knowledge and power.

The Bible says, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.” (Psalm 19:1).

Friend, look around and see thousands of things that declare the presence and glory of God.

Some time ago, I read about a little girl who lay desperately ill in a hospital. She had swallowed gasoline. As the family tried to put together the facts, the father remembered he had siphoned gas out of the car for his lawn mower and the little girl watched him do it. Later she tried to imitate daddy’s action and now she lay deathly ill.

When I read that, I thought about how great an influence we parents have on our children. They watch and listen to us in everything we do and say. We would not intentionally hurt them in any way, yet, we do harm them by carelessly setting the wrong examples.

The Bible says, “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” The word “train” means to teach and set the right example.

If your child copied everything you do, would you change your behavior?

On graduation night, a father said, “Son, what are your plans?” The boy said, “Dad, you know I’m going to college.”

The dad said, “That’s right, but what then?” The boy replied, “Well, I’ll want to get a good job and get married.” The dad said, “Well, that’s also fine. But, what then?”

The boy said, “Well, I’ll work the required years and then retire.” The father replied, “That’s good — but what then?” And the boy said, “Well, I don’t know — I guess I’ll get old and die!”

The dad said, “That’s right! What then?”

And the boy dropped his head as he realized he had planned his entire life without planning his eternal destiny.

The Bible teaches that man is destined to die and each of us will give account of himself to God (Rom. 14:12).

Let me ask you, What then?

Someone has said, “The fellow who doesn’t have problem hasn’t been born yet,” and I guess that is true. Marriage problems, school problems work problems, money problems — just thinking about them can ruin your whole day.

There is one problem that has to be ranked as our #1 problem, and that is SIN. That little three-letter word has almost vanished from our vocabulary but it is real, nonetheless.

Sin is the breaking of God’s laws and every person has this problem whether he admits it or not. And it is directly linked to most of the problems we have in life. Alcoholism, venereal disease, broken homes, and such like are the results of sin.

The Bible says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23), and the “…wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

Jesus paid the price for sin (2 Colossians 5:21). Through Jesus Christ we have the victory over sin and death.

A man struck a match to see if the gas tank of his car was empty. It was not!

A man patted a strange dog on the head to see if the critter was affectionate. He was not!

A man speeded up to see if he could beat the train to the crossing. He did not!

A man touched a wire to see if it had electricity going through it. It did!

A man quit going to church worship to see if God really was serious about punishing those who did not serve Him. He was!

Hebrews 5:9 reads, “And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation…”

Friend, let us make the salvation of our soul “sure” by doing ONLY and ALL the will of the Father.

A child says “Mother, I love you,” but refuses to clean up his room as asked, and will not obey in other matters.

A husband says to his wife, “I love you, honey,” but does not consider her feelings or help her with her burdens.

We say to God, “I love you more than anyone or anything,” but then allow worldly things to come before Him.

We say to Jesus, “I love you, Lord, for dying for me,” but fail to follow His way. We fail to obey Him.

Friends, it is not in the SAYING but the DOING that really counts. Pretty words of love and devotion are easily spoken. We convey true devotion and love by the DOING more often than the SAYING.

Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter.”

I have a confession to make. The vastness of my ignorance is overwhelming.

I do not know how tiny aspirin tablets know to go to my throbbing head one time and my injured foot another time.

I do not understand how pressing down on the gas pedal makes the wheels go around.

I do not know how pushing buttons on a handset in Texas makes my mother’s telephone in Florida start ringing.

I do not understand how a brown cow eats green grass and produces white milk.

But, what amazes me more than anything is why so many people leave God out of their lives — and merely say they do not understand Him and His magnificent wonders. He has promised peace and serenity; victory and rest. God’s love has made it possible for you to go to heaven IF you will learn and obey his will.

A boy said to his girlfriend, “I would climb the highest mountain for you. I would swim the widest ocean for your love. I would brave the coldest snowstorm or the hottest desert to be with you. I would challenge a thousand dragons for your hand. And I’ll be over Saturday night if it is not raining.”

Maybe this reminds us of some who suggest to the Lord, “I will do…” or “I will give…” or “I will die for you…” but refuse to even live for Him.

Simon Peter said to the Lord he would not deny Him — but he did. His promise sounded great, but did not mean a thing!

Let us make a commitment to the Lord and then make it count. Let us keep our eyes on Jesus (Heb. 12:2), and press toward the prize (Phil. 3:14).

Maybe you have heard someone say, “God said it. I believe it. And that settles it.” As good as that may sound; it does NOT properly reflect the truth.

The psalmist David declared, “Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven….” Every time we read the Bible we have access to the “mind of Christ” (I Corinthians 2:13,16). One writer said, “When we open our Bibles, we are as close to the very breath of God as we will ever get this side of eternity.”

If we refuse to do the will of the Father Jesus will say in Judgment, “Depart from me, I never knew you…”

The true attitude we should have toward the Holy Scriptures should be, “God said it. That settles it, therefore, I must trust it!”

Do you believe God’s Word? For you, does that settle the matter concerning religion, once and for all? Are you living by the Word of God?

The Bible can be summarized by three great truths about Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament books, Genesis through Malachi, we are told that Jesus is coming. In the Gospel books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we are told that Jesus has come. From Romans to Revelation, we are assured that Jesus is coming again.

When Jesus comes again, it will be the end (1 Cor. 15:24), and He will judge the world (Acts 17:31). That is why so many dread His second coming, and view it with fear.

However, the writers of the Bible looked upon it with favor and even longed for the day. Why? In that day there will be a resurrection of all who have died. There will be a reception, by the raised and Jesus, in the clouds of those who are yet alive. There will be a revealing of Jesus that the whole world will see, and at His name, every knee will bow. And there will be a reward for the righteous.

Everyone is making New Year’s resolutions. Many will be broken before the day is out. Let me suggest a few to you, and really try to stick to them.

— Watch less television.
— View fewer newscasts, thereby seeking to avoid an hour-by-hour exposure to bad news.
— Remain focused on success and not failure.
— Be optimistic believing that better days are ahead.
— Find happiness in little things, everyday occurrences, and small successes.
— Love God and my neighbor with a pure love.
— Love family and friends as never before.
— Be a part of a faithful body of believers in Jesus Christ.
— Spend myself in His service and a knowledge of His Word.

All of these are worthy goals and resolutions. All of them will make you a happier person as well.

Set goals for yourself this year, and stick to them. Make your goals beyond yourself, and ones that will make a difference for eternity.

One day a farmer, who was also a Christian, spent the day shopping in the city. At lunchtime, he entered a restaurant and sat down near some young men who happened to not care much for religion. When the farmer’s meal was served, he bowed his head and silently gave thanks for the food.

One of the young men thought he would have some fun with the farmer and said in a loud voice, “Hey, pop, does everyone do that where you come from?”

The old farmer looked at him with deep sincerity and said, “Nope, son, the pigs don’t.”

The Bible says, “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer” (1 Tim. 4:4,5).

Do you daily receive food and other blessings from God? Every good gift comes from God (James 1:17). We should express our thanks daily in prayer and by the way we live!

A mother was trying to get her young daughter to study her Bible class lesson. The mother took her Bible from the shelf, dusted it off, and told the daughter to read her Bible lesson before she could go out and play. “All right, Mother,” the little girl said, “but let’s study out of Grandmother’s Bible. It’s more interesting than yours.”

“Why, what makes you say that Sweetie?” replied the mother. “My Bible is exactly like Grandmother’s.” “Oh no, Mother,” the observant little lady insisted. “I’m sure Grandmother’s Bible must be more interesting than yours because she reads her’s so much more than you do!”

Friends, it is hard to teach what we do not practice. Our children will learn from what we do much more than what we “say.” What are you “saying” to your children by your actions?

Ephesians 6:4 says, “do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

There was a disagreement between two friends. One heard of what the other had accused him. He went to him and said, “Will you be kind enough to tell me my faults that I may learn and rid myself of them?” The other said, “I will do it.” The first one then said, “Before you begin, let us kneel and pray that my eyes may be opened to see my faults. Will you lead the prayer?”

When the prayer was over, the man said, “No, what have you noticed wrong in my conduct?” The other answered, “After praying over it, it looks so little that it is not worth talking about. I realize I should not have talked about it, and have need that you pray for me and forgive me the wrong I have done you.”

The disagreement was dissolved between the two that hour.

Harsh words are often generated out of pride and selfishness. Prayer is a great antidote for both.

The Sahara Desert is a three and a half million square mile expanse of arid land in North Africa, west of the Nile River. It is almost the size of the United States and is growing larger. The history of the Sahara Desert is interesting.

Long ago, Romans made this area the granary of Rome by employing soil conservation and water management. When the Romans left, nomads ruined the land. Trees were cut for fuel. Dams and irrigation channels were abandoned. Goats grazed upon saplings. Topsoil eroded. The land had been highly productive, but when ravaged, it became nothing but “waste.”

All have talents and great opportunities. What we choose to do with our lives will determine if we become “productive” or “wasteland.” The Bible never called him the “prodigal” son, but we do. “Prodigal” does not mean wanderer. It means wasteful.

Do not waste your life and your soul. Make it productive for Christ. Lay up for yourself treasures in Heaven.

Millions will be celebrating this day as the birth of Jesus Christ. Although that is the common conception of this day, there is some evidence that Jesus was born during a much warmer time of year.

That aside, our world would be much different if Jesus had never come. Our calendars would be dated differently. Different personalities and principles would have shaped many of the political power struggles over the centuries. The fact is that Jesus Christ pervades every fiber of our society in one way or another.

When the angels appeared to the shepherds in the field, they said they brought “glad tidings of great joy.” The good news was that He was Jesus (meaning Savior), who is Christ (Messiah, the anointed one) the Lord (Sovereign Ruler).

Who is Jesus to you? What does He mean in your life?

“Therefore let it be known to you…that through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things…” (Acts 13:38,39).

In James 4 the writer asks, “What is your life?” In the same verse of Scripture, he answers the question by saying, “It is even a vapor that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away.”

Our life is brief! If you were guaranteed you would live to be 100 years old, you would only live 36,500 days. A mere few days to prepare for an eternal home of the soul.

Our life is fragile! Our hearts can stop at any moment. Arteries can rupture. Disease can destroy. Who could have known that Dale Earnhart would not be with us today?

Our life is certain to end! Jehovah has declared that all have an appointment with death and judgment. It is really another step in the process of life.

The time of death is uncertain! We do not know how long we will live on earth. May we live each day as if it were our last day — always prepared for judgment!

Imagine your surprise, as you are walking downtown, to see a fish walking toward you on his tail fins. You become even more surprised, as he approaches, to hear him muttering to himself. Over and over you hear him say he is tired of the salty, muddy waters of the lake nearby. He had made his way to enroll in the local college, or university to get an education.

You say, impossible! A fish cannot live outside of water. You are correct. God created every living thing to thrive and prosper in a certain sphere. The birds of the air, the fish of the waters, and the beast of the field have their specific habitation.

Well, friend God has also prepared a special place for His people. There is no such thing as a child of God outside of His family, a member of Christ outside of His body, a citizen of Heaven outside of His Kingdom, or a Christian outside of the church.

God has a place for you!

You hear preachers talk a lot about “redemption.” But, what does that really mean? The word “redemption” literally means to purchase again, or, to buy back. Let me illustrate.

A young boy built a beautiful model boat. He decided to take it to the local lake to see if it would sail. As he put it in the water and it drifted off, he was proud, but quickly realized that he didn’t attach a string. So, he just stood there and watched it sail into the horizon. Sometime later he walked past a local shop, and there was his boat in the front window. He ran inside and asked the price. “Two dollars,” replied the owner. The boy ran home, got his money, and ran back to buy the boat. As he left the shop clutching the boat to his chest, he said something curious: “You’re mine! Twice mine!”

You see, Jesus created you, and He will re-create you. “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.” (Ephesians 1:7).

The Bible is composed of 66 books. Thirty-nine are in the Old Testament, and twenty-seven are in the New Testament. Though 40 different men composed it over a period of 1600 years, it has a unified message throughout.

The message of the Bible can be summed up by three great truths:
1. God formed us. He breathed into man’s nostrils the breath of life and man became a living soul. He made us in His image. When He beheld his creation He said, “it is very good.”
2. Sin deformed us. From the very first sin, man was forever changed. Once in close fellowship with God, now many lives are lived in open rebellion to God. Many will take no knowledge of him at all.
3. Christ transforms us. Jesus’ death on the cross is the remedy for sin. He died so that we would not have to. Those who are in Christ are “new creatures,” transformed from within, to lead a life of godliness.
Such are all of us: formed, deformed, but possibly transformed.

A few years ago during the Texas state high school football playoffs, the temperatures were well below freezing and the chill factor near zero. Loyal fans of two state powerhouses sat in the stadium and cheered for their teams…for three hours! Why?

People regularly fill theaters to watch the latest award-winning movie…for three hours! Why?

Men and women crowd golf courses to play eighteen holes of golf…for four or five hours! Why?

People come to worship. If they are not our in an hour, they become upset. Why can we sit out in the cold weather, watch movies, or play golf for hours and then limit the Lord’s day to 59 minutes of activity? I wonder what God thinks about our priorities!

Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

In the past I was embarrassed to read about the sins and failings of the good people in the Bible. The list is long: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Samson, Saul, David, Paul, Peter, Mark, and others.

He struck out 1,330 times, a record in futility unapproached by any other player in the history of baseball. But that’s not what we remember about Babe Ruth. We remember his 714 home runs.

Cy Young, perhaps the greatest pitcher of all time accumulated 511 victories. But what is generally forgotten is that Young actually lost as many games as he won.

Now I am glad God wrote the Bible without first consulting me. It turned out much better the way He did it. Failure is a reality in any field.

“If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:8-9).

The world of today is having a powerful influence on many Christians when it should be the other way around.

As disciples and believers, we need to be the salt and light of this community. Some, however, are allowing the world around them to throw water on the candle and leave them as empty salt shakers.

How can you tell when or if this is happening to you? When you are doing less and less work to glorify the name of God, it is happening. When one is studying God’s word less and less, it is happening. When your interest in what is going on in the family of God begins to sag, it is happening. When we begin to offer foolish excuses for neglecting the spiritual things in our life, it is happening.

The apostle Paul says, “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.” (Gal. 6:9).

What is the first word that comes to your mind when you hear the word love? Most of us think of opposites and would have to say “hate.” Hate is not the opposite of love. The true opposite of love is indifference.

When a husband or wife says, “I hate you,” the case is not hopeless. That home can still be saved. However, when a husband or wife becomes totally indifferent to the other, that home is in real jeopardy.

Nothing hurts our Lord more than indifference. He prefers being hated to being ignored. In Revelation 3:15, Jesus says, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot.” I wonder how Jesus feels about those who are indifferent and apathetic toward His church?

Jesus also said, “You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment.” (Matthew 22:37-38)

Moses came down from Mount Sinai with 10 Commandments for the children of Israel. Someone has written the 10 Commandments for Human Relations.
1. Speak to people. There is nothing as cheerful as a word of greeting.
2. Smile at people. It takes 72 muscles to frown, only 14 to smile.
3. Call people by name. The sweetest music to many ears is the sound of one’s own name.
4. Be friendly and helpful. If you would have friends, you must be friendly.
5. Be cordial. Show genuine pleasure in dealing with others.
6. Have a genuine interest in people. It shows.
7. Be generous with praise — cautious with criticism.
8. Be considerate of feelings of others.
9. Be thoughtful of the opinion of others.
10. Be alert to give service. What we do for others is very important.

Long ago, Jesus said, “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Mt. 7:12).

The mortality of man is not pictured any clearer than in Genesis chapter five. In verses 3-5 Adam lived 930 years and he died.

In verses 6-8, Seth lived 912 years and he died.
In verses 9-11, Enos lived 905 year and he died.
In verses 12-14, Cainan lived 910 years and he died.
In verses 15-17, Mahaleel lived 895 years and he died.
In verses 18-20, Jared lived 962 years and he died.
In verses 25-27, Methuselah lived 969 years and he died.
In verses 28-30, Lamech lived 777 years and he died.

Sounds morbid, doesn’t it? Friend, one day the newspaper will give a brief account of your life, and it will conclude by saying, “and he died.”

Hebrews 9:27 says, “it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment,”

All of us will die! All of us will stand before Christ in judgment. We are judged as we die, and we die as we live. Are you prepared?

We live in a world where a person's worth is often judged on the basis of looks.

The sad thing about this is that we have the power to greatly hurt people by our reactions to their appearances.

The poorly-dressed, the fat, the poverty-stricken, the ugly, those with a different color of skin are some whose character may be first class, but are often shunned by others because of their outward appearance.

Friend, you sin if you show partiality because of a person's appearance.

James 2:9 says, “But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.”

We need to be more like our Lord. He looks upon the heart, not upon the outward appearance. He is no respecter of persons.

No matter how a person looks or is dressed, no matter how a person may appear to be, we should treat that person like the Lord treats us.

“Everybody does it!” That is an excuse that if you are a parent you have heard it, and if you are a child you have probably used it. The statement is not always accurate, but in this case, it is.

Everyone does sin! Sin is deceitful! Sin is contagious! It grows and progresses.

Eve (in the long ago) heard the devil’s lie, believed it, and then did what he wanted here to do — disobey God!

Peter first “followed afar off,” and then was in the presence of the enemy, and finally denied the Lord.

Lot did not immediately move to the evil place Sodom. The prodigal son just gradually went to the far country, ending up in a pigpen.

Friend, resist every temptation to sin. Resist the devil (James 5:8). Choose the way of escape (I Cor. 10:13). Abstain from even the appearance of evil (I Thess. 5:22).

Sin will condemn us eternally if we do not remove it by the grace of God!

Do you realize that in 24 hours, you body will…

— Have its heart beat one hundred thirty thousand times.
— Breathe about twenty-three thousand times.
— Inhale four hundred thirty cubic feet of air.
— Consume about three pounds of food.
— Drink about three quarts of water.
— Speak about forty-eight hundred words.
— Use over seven hundred muscles.
— Use seven million brain cells.
— Walk seven miles.

Every aspect of the human body demands a great Creator. That Creator is Jehovah God.

Even with great technological advancements by man, and vast human knowledge, we must all agree that no machine we might design or create could even begin to approach the capacity of the human body.

Truly, the Psalmist was correct, when he said, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).

The death of Jesus of Nazareth was one of the most gruesome in history. He was arrested and falsely accused. He was spit upon and abused by His accusers. He was scourged (that is, beaten with something like a leather whip). Spikes were driven through His hands and feet, and His blood splattered on the ground while a mob made fun of Him.

Why would He endure all of that? One answer, “Love.” While we were unworthy of His love He died for us (Romans 5:8). God loved the whole world so much that He gave His son to die for us (John 3:16).

As sinners, you and I deserve to die. But, as sinners, our death would only minutely satisfy God’s justice while never satisfying His holiness. Dying in such a way would still condemn us to hell. However, Jesus’ death satisfied both the justice and holiness of God.

How will you respond to such love? Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

The most common cause of death in the mountains is hypothermia, better known as death by freezing. The symptoms of the subtle killer are mild depression, fatigue and falling. If an individual did not recognize the symptoms of hypothermia, he might think he was really cold and tired and might decide to lie down and go to sleep for a little while. If proper treatment were not available, the person would then die!

The most common cause of spiritual death is not a sudden rebellion to God. Usually, one allows the devil to slowly enter his life until eventually the person is lulled into spiritual sleep. Obvious symptoms include a dwindling prayer life, a lack of Bible study, insensitivity to sin and dependence on self, not God.

Don’t allow Satan to slowly deceive you into dying spiritually.

1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Ephesians 4:26 says, “Be angry, and sin not: do not let the sun go down upon your wrath." God's Word tells us to be "slow to wrath" (Proverbs 14:29, James 1:19). There's nothing that will do more damage to your relationships than unwanted, unwarranted anger.

If you are given to anger, let me tell you a couple of things the Bible says and it won't be flattering. First, the Bible says you are foolish. Ecclesiastes 7:9 says, "For anger rests in the bosom of fools." Second, you have a weak character. Proverbs 16:32 says, "He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he that
rules his spirit than he that takes a city." Uncontrolled anger is like throwing a rock into a wasp's nest.

Do you have a short fuse? If so, confess it. Don't let Satan get a stronghold in your life. If you get angry today, ask yourself what need is not being met and give it to the Lord.

Have you ever been around someone who seemed unable to speak without cursing? Did you notice that these people often claim that they just can’t help themselves?

I went to school with a boy who was always cursing and when someone would say something about it, he would tell us, “I can’t help it. Man, it just slips out before I know it.” Yet, I noticed that when his mother or the preacher would come around, he would stop his cursing immediately and would not say another word until his mother or the preacher left.

The point is that most people are not nearly so helpless as they claim and could stop cursing if they wanted to. The Bible says, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth…” (Eph. 4:29). It also teaches that the mouth used for praising God should not be used to curse man who is made by God (James 3:9-10).

In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as “the captain of our salvation,” “the head of the church,” “the King of kings, and Lord of lords,” and, “the Son of God.” Each of these appellations suggests supreme and absolute authority.

Jesus has authority in creation. All things were created by Him and for Him (Col. 1:17). Nothing exists or consists without the authority of Christ.

He has authority in revelation. Jesus is the source of the revelation of the New Covenant (Gal. 1:12). When the Holy Spirit revealed these things, He did not speak of Himself but of Jesus (John 15:26).

Jesus has authority in the church. He is the “head of the body, which is His church.” He is the King of His kingdom. He is the Shepherd of His sheepfold. As the body goes nowhere without the head, so the church goes nowhere without Jesus. Thus Paul writes, “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord…” (Col. 3:17).

A king once awarded his favorite jester a golden sash inscribed with, “World’s Greatest Fool.” The clown was given the honor because the king would delight in his antics. He was told if he ever found a fool greater than himself, he could give the sash to that man.

Years later the king lay dying as his sorrowing subjects came around to say a final word, the king said to the jester, “I am going on a long journey.” “Will you return?” asked the jester. “No, I am leaving forever,” the king stated. “Have you prepared for you journey,” the jester asked. The king answered, “I have made no preparation.”

With that statement the jester sadly removed the sash and with tears said to the dying king, “You are going on a journey from which you will never return and you have made no preparation. You, sir, are the world’s greatest fool!”

Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people (John 14:1-3). Are you ready? Have you made preparations?

Religious division is a sad commentary on our modern society. It leaves many confused. To cause of Christ it is deadly.

In the past 500 years of human history, those who call themselves “Christian” have divided and fragmented into thousands of splinter groups. As the community church movement sweeps over the religious plain the problem seems to be getting worse.

Unity among His followers was so important to Jesus that just hours before His crucifixion He prayed for it (John 17:21). On the cross, He died for it (Eph. 2:14-16). And, through His apostles, He commanded it (Eph. 4:3). But, is it really possible?

Jesus would not have died for nor commanded an impossibility. Just as soldiers march united under one commander, following the same command, so we may find unity under the “captain of our salvation.” Surely with Jesus as our only commander, and His commands as our only standard, we can achieve the unity for which our Lord prayed.

What kinds of things are you thankful for today? Are you thankful for your job, your house, your car, boat, family, or even your life? You should be.

The Bible tells us that one of the traits of a genuine Christian is that he is thankful. We are to be thankful for all things (Ephesians 5:20). When we approach God with a request, we are to first offer thanks for our blessings (Philippians 4:6).

Yet, all of the things that we may rightfully be thankful for in this life are only temporary. Think about your spiritual life. What blessings should you be thankful for spiritually? God’s grace, redemption, Jesus Christ, revelation, joy, peace, and the church are all things we should express thanks to God for everyday. Perhaps you can think of others. Sit down sometime today, make your list, and thank God.

The best way to show your thankfulness is not just to say it, but to live it. Show God how truly thankful you are for His spiritual blessings, and live for Him everyday of your life.

One of the amazing qualities about the Bible is its inherent qualities. No other book has these qualities built right in.

One of the inherent qualities of the Bible is faith. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). The one who truly hears the words of the Bible will be built up in his trust of Almighty God.

Another of these inherent qualities is saving power. Paul said, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes…” (Romans 1:16). Once it produces faith, it likewise will produce salvation within the believer.

The third of these qualities is discovery. Jesus said, “seek and you will find.” And, “If any man wills to do my will, he will know of the doctrine, whether it is from God or men” (John 7:17). Any man who truly desires to know God’s truth will find his way to saving faith. The Bible will point the way.

One of the great comforts of life is to know that God keeps His promises. No matter how low life may get, no matter how difficult the days, God keeps His promises.

The Bible teaches that God cannot lie (Titus 1:2). His promises are “Yes and Amen” (2 Corinthians 1:20,21). God swore by Himself because there was none greater.

H.G. Spafford was a very successful businessman in the 1800’s. Yet, due to terrible consequences, he lost everything he had. Some time later, he lost his four beautiful daughters in a shipwreck. Upon learning the news Spafford wrote the following words,
“When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrow like sea billows roll,
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, It is well with my soul.”

Spafford understood what it meant to rely on the promises of God. If you are lacking peace in your life, investigate the promises of God, and fashion your life accordingly. “Cast your cares upon Him for He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7).

Are you out there looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right? Did you think you had Mr. or Mrs. Right, only to find out they were all Wrong? It might be good to investigate where you are looking.

A song from a couple of decades ago they were “looking for love in all the wrong places.” I have seen the talk shows. She is upset because her man turned out to be nothing but a lazy drunk. Where did they meet? In a bar.

Listen friends, if you marry a child of the devil, you will always have trouble with your father-in-law. If you are looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right, first make sure that you are right — that is, right with God. Then look for someone who fits the same description.

Many are trying to make it on their own, and failing miserably. Instead of making it on your own, why not put your trust in God, and let him guide your way. There is none so successful than he who is with God.

Jesus Christ is the most unique character of history. All time is marked by His extraordinary life. Napoleon Bonaparte once said, “I know men, and Jesus Christ was no man.”

Ever since His short 33 year life, men have exhausted themselves in writing about His sublime life. Even more spectacular is that before He was born men were writing about Him.

Seven and a half centuries before Jesus would be born, the prophet Isaiah told about many events of His spectacular life. Isaiah tells that He would be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14). He also tells of His lofty position (Isaiah 9:6).

In Isaiah 53, the prophet gives us a composite view of the Savior. He speaks of His special birth, His simple life, His substitutionary death, His saving resurrection, and His sovereign reign. All of this in 33 years. But, for what purpose?

“He was pierced through for our transgressions, and crushed for our offenses…He bore the sin of many, and interceded for the transgressors” that He might “justify the many.”

The devil never is upfront with us. He beckons us to the “High Life,” but never mentions the low life brought on by his so-called “high life.” Jesus said he was a liar and a murderer from the beginning. He always gives the best first, and it goes downhill from there.

Jesus, however, saves the best until last. In Jesus’ first miracle, the wine He created was deemed the best quality of the day. That is the way it always is with Jesus.

In the 23rd Psalm, David ends that beautiful and comforting song with “surely goodness and mercy will follow me all of the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” God never promised us that life would be easy. He did promise that He would sustain us through this life. That’s His goodness and mercy. He also promised that at the end of this life there would be rest from our labors because we will be living in His house forever.

Have you divided your life into the sacred and the secular? Do you have a worship life where you honor God and a business life where you honor yourself and things? Friend, God doesn’t play second fiddle, and He won’t share the stage of your heart.

The apostle Paul reminds us that there is “one body, one Spirit, one hope…one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all, who is above all, through all, and in all” (Eph. 4:4-6).

God will either be Lord of all, or He will not be Lord at all. No man can serve two masters. You must choose who will rule your heart and life. Make your choice today, and make God the Lord of all things in your life. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all of His blessings will be yours.

The devil is a liar, and a murderer. Jesus said he has been that way from the beginning, and He ought to know. The devil’s motive is murder, and his method is lying. He wants to kill your happiness, murder your purity, and destroy your spiritual life.

How will he accomplish all of this? He will get you thinking severely about God. He wants you to think that God is just out to kill all your fun. The devil wants you to think skeptically about God. He wants you to doubt God’s word. The devil wants you to think superficially about God. He wants you to laugh at God’s judgment, and ignore His commands. The devil wants you to think suspiciously about God. He suggested to Eve that God was holding out on her, and he does the same today.

God wants you to defeat the devil. Do not fall for his lies; rather depend on God’s truth. You can overcome the devil. Just believe in God and His word. Your faith will win out.

Friend, if your life is falling apart, you may want to examine your foundation. Just like houses with poor foundations, our lives will crumble if they do not have the proper footing.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke of two kinds of builders — wise and foolish. These two men had some things in common. They were building in the same general area; were probably using some of the same materials; using similar building plans; and, they were both building with an impending storm.

However, there was one great difference. One dug down to the bedrock and laid his foundation. The other simply poured a slab and started putting up walls and a roof, on shifting sand. When the storm came one stood, but the other fell.

Jesus said the wise builder was like the one who hears His word and does it. Are you listening to God? Good! But, are you doing it? James says that a man is self-deceived if he just walks away and does not obey!

What happens when you worry? You bring tomorrow's difficulty into today. God did not give you grace for tomorrow's difficulties. He only gives you grace for today. When you reach into tomorrow's troubles, you overload today's circuit.

Worry doesn't take the sorrow out of tomorrow; it takes the strength out of today. When you meet tomorrow, you are out of breath because you're already overloaded from today. Worry, therefore, does not make you ready for the future; it really makes you unready.

Yesterday is just a canceled check. Tomorrow is a
promissory note. Today has all the cash you can handle. Spend it wisely.

“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34).

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:7).

According to an article, Henry Ford asked some engineers to box the transmissions for his Model-T Fords in certain sized boxes. He gave meticulous dimensions and material instructions for these boxes. The builders were confused, but they did as they were told. When the transmissions were delivered, the factory workers took apart the boxes and used them for the floorboards! Mr. Ford was thinking ahead!

That's what God does. According to Matthew 6:8, He knows what we need even before we ask. We may not understand all His ways, just like those people who were boxing up the transmissions did not understand. “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor. 5:7). We may not always understand, but we live by His promises.

His promises are “Yes, and Amen” (2 Cor. 1:20). Their certainty rest upon His faithfulness. The statement is true, “Never doubt in the darkness what God has promised you in the light.” Live life in the assurance of Almighty God!

One of the great challenges of life is to judge people by their character rather than their physical appearance or abilities. An athlete may be gifted with great ability to play a sport while the crippled man comes in after the game and sweeps up the trash.

What we need to remember is that neither of them had the opportunity to say, “I want to be this way.” Solomon said, “I…saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the warriors…but time and chance overtake them all” (Ecc. 9:11).

Let us recognize and applaud the accomplishments of the man who has fully used his superior talent. Let us also recognize the man with inferior talents who is also daily doing his best. We can’t all be superstars. We can’t all be in the headlines. I like the philosophy of the person who said, “Maybe I can’t be the best, but I can be my best!”

A small dry goods store in a small rural town was visited by a man from the state’s weight and measures department. He found the yardstick being used to sell fabric was one inch short. “That’s impossible!” said the owner. “That yardstick was used by my dad and grandfather. They would not have cheated anyone! They were honest, Christian men.”

The inspector paused for a second and then said, “Sir, I’m sure your father and grandfather were honest. In fact, they were so honest what do you think they would have done if they had made this discovery?” Without hesitation, the owner said, “They would have made it right …and that’s what I’m going to do.”

Often people will not accept plain Bible teaching because it is NOT what their parents believed. What do you think those honest parents would have done if they had learned the truth? Will you do any less?

Proverbs 23:23 says, “Buy truth, and do not sell it.” A precious commodity like truth should be valued at all costs!

How many friends do you have? Out of those friends how many of them would you count as close friends? And, out of those close friends, how many of them would you say are closer to you than a brother?

The fact is that many of us have acquaintances, but our friends are few. It is even rarer to have a close friend. Rarer still to have a friend closer than a brother. There are many people who believe they have no friends at all.

I have good news for all of us. Solomon said, “there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” That friend is Jesus. He is a friend of sinners and saints alike. He gave His life for his friends.

Even the man who is alone is never lonely when he knows Jesus Christ. Jesus is much more than a friend. He is closer than a brother. He is a savior and a comforter. He has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Do you hear preachers refer often to the “Gospel” and wonder what they are talking about?

The word “Gospel” means good news. The primary message of the Gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 15:3,4).

You may wonder why someone’s death would be good news. It is good news because in Jesus’ death He paid the penalty for our sin. In His resurrection, He defeated the power of the Devil.

Because Jesus paid the penalty for sin it is not necessary that any of us die. By trusting in Him, we can live forever (John 11:25,26).

Now that is “good news!”

Whoever you are, there is some younger person who thinks you are perfect.
Whoever you are, there is some work that will not get done unless you do it.
Whoever you are, there is someone who would miss you if you were gone.
Whoever you are, there is a reason for becoming better than you are.
Whoever you are, there is a place to be filled that you alone can fill.

Jesus emphasized the importance of personal example in His sermon on the Mount as He stated, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Only YOU can set YOUR personal example.

What kind of example have you been setting so far in your life? How can you change to be a better example? Others are looking for it. Your relationship with God depends on it.

The ingredients that make up the recipe of a good life are:
1 cup of good thoughts
1 cup of consideration for others
1 cup of kind deeds
3 cups of forgiveness
2 cups of well beaten faults

Several tears of joy, sorrow and sympathy; combine with 4 cups of prayer and faith. Mix good thoughts, kind deeds, consideration, forgiveness and well-beaten faults. Add a mixture of tears of joy, sorrow and sympathy for others. Fold in prayer and faith to lighten other ingredients and raise the texture to great heights of Christian living. Pour all of this into your family life. Bake well with the heart of human kindness. Serve liberally with a smile.

Peter writes, “For, ‘The one who desires life, to love and see good days, must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit. He must turn away from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.” (1 Peter 3:10-11).

God is interested in our hearing. The Jews heard, but they did not hear! Many today hear, but they actually do not listen.

There are different kinds of hearers and listeners. One can listen to criticize; they can pick the words, sentences, or facts apart. They hear errors but not the truth.

Then there are those who listen in resentment. They hear with hate; with hostility. Truth does no change their intellect, but fire their passions.

Some listen with superiority. This is snobbery at its worst. These people do not listen but hear your words to be polite.

Some, though, listen to learn. They are seeking, knocking, and asking. These people will hear and obey the truth and then they will grow rapidly. They are blessed because they are good listeners!

Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 11:15).

Who was Cain’s wife? After Adam and Eve were driven out of the Garden of Eden, they had their first child — a son, named Cain. Later, Cain married. Where did he get his wife?

I have heard that question discussed many times and I am asked about it frequently. Well, there are different opinions, the most sensible one being that Adam and Eve had other children and Cain married a sister.

But, really the whole question is nothing on which to spend much time. In 1 Timothy 1, Paul taught us not to spend time on vain discussion which really promotes controversy rather than God’s work.

Some things are interesting to discuss, but useless in providing help in living the Christian life. Friend, spend your Bible study time on those things which help you live better.

Everywhere you look these days, people are exercising, and they are buying all kinds of gadgets to get their bodies in good physical condition. The doctor’s offices are filled with people trying to get their sick and injured bodies back into good shape.

Someone has said when people get as concerned about their souls as they are about their bodies, the church buildings will be as full as the doctor’s offices.

Have you ever considered what you are really supposed to do with your physical body? The Bible says physical (or bodily) exercise does profit us — a little — but it also teaches us that spiritual condition is more important than physical condition.

The Bible says in Romans 12:1-2 we are to present our bodies a living sacrifice unto God, and that means we are supposed to do with our bodies what God wants us to do.

Fornication is about as common today as drinking water. The “living together” arrangement is very popular. People speak about having “affairs” much in the same way they talk about having a vacation.

There is a real sexual revolution in our country. Venereal disease is at epidemic proportions. Nation-wide, more than one million reported abortions occur each year. The rate of illegitimacy is staggering.

Man has changed his mind about a lot of things in recent years and we have accepted many things as all right that are not all right. Fornication is one of those things.

Call it “fornication,” “shacking up,” a “meaningful relationship,” or “making love” — if you have sexual relations with someone to whom you are not married, it is sinful and condemns you before God. The Bible says fornicators shall not go to heaven!

Heb 13:4 says, “Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled; for fornicators and adulterers God will judge.”

A mother once asked, “Should I make my son go to church?” My answer, “Yes, absolutely.” Let me explain. What do you say when your son decides that he does not want to go to school? What did you do when he was little and did not want to take a bath? How did you react when he was sick and did not want his medicine?

Every right-thinking parent recognizes the importance of these matters and gives the child no opportunity to decide for himself. Instead, parents explain the importance of going to school, taking baths, or taking medicine when sick.

So, mom and dad, take time to explain the importance of going to church; then simply say to your son or daughter; “In our family we all go to church and that includes you.”

“Train up a child in the way he should go…” (Prov. 22:6).

What is the most important thing in your life? Really! Is it your music? Maybe it is your job? Could it be your family? If I were to ask you to write down the most important thing in your life, what would it be? Have you ever thought about it?

Here is a fact: Happiness—real happiness—the kind of happiness that makes you look forward to the next day is directly related to the thing that is most important in your life. That’s right. So, maybe the reason many are not happy is that they don’t have their priorities worked out.

But, when you know that each day you are active in achieving the most important thing of life, then you like yourself and you are happy.

In setting your priorities, remember that Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God…” (Matt. 6:33). God demands and deserves first place in your life.

What if I was to suggest to you that you join as many churches as you can? After all, where did man get this idea of joining just one church?

We do not practice this in other areas of life. Many of us buy our life insurance, health insurance, homeowners insurance, and auto insurance from different companies because one will offer better services and better rates than another will. Many people will join more than one civic club because of the various benefits they find to each. So why join just one church?

The fact is the Bible says Jesus Christ adds men to the church who have been saved (Acts 2:47). You and I have no business “joining” churches. The Bible does not command it.

That is not to say that church membership is not important. It is! Jesus gave Himself for the church (Ephesians 5:25). He will deliver the church to His Father in the end (1 Corinthians 15:24).

As a father, I have often wished I could take my children somewhere and completely shield them from all of the evil and temptations of this world. Yet, I know that such is not only impossible; it would not be the best for my daughters. What then, should I do?

The answer comes from the Bible. In 2 Timothy the apostle Paul warned the young man, Timothy, that evil men would go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But, Paul told Timothy to simply continue in the Holy Scriptures that he had learned in childhood from his grandmother and mother.

There is the answer for parents. The best thing we can do to save our children and protect them from evil is to fill their hearts with the word of God.

Ephesians 6:4 says, “bring your children up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” In other words, Christian education begins at home.

A new husband watched his bride prepare a ham for the oven. He noticed she cut off a few inches of the end. When asked why, she replied that the only reason she could give was her mother had always done it that way. They called her mother who admitted she always cut off a few inches, because “my mother did it that way.” Finally, they consulted grandma who said, “Oh, I always did that because my pan was too small.”

This illustrates we may follow customs without even considering if we are doing the right thing.

Even in religion, some follow family customs and traditions without real personal convictions. Many have inherited their religion from their family instead of basing their faith upon the Word of God.

Romans 14:12 says, “So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God.”

The Indians used to give their children names that they earned. A girl would become “Timid One,” or “Laughing Water.” A boy might earn the name “Brave Warrior,” or “Running Feet.”

Suppose people gave us the names we earn. Some of us would be “Helping Hand,” “Generous Heart” or “Peacemaker.” But on the other hand, many would have names such as “Shirker,” “Stingy,” or “Evil Tongue.”

If people named you according to your life, what would be your name? Paul said in Galatians 5 that our actions indicate our real character. Some things indicate we are led by the Spirit of God while other actions show we are following the flesh.

James speaks of that “worthy name by which you are called” — meaning the name “Christian.” What about you? When people observe your life, would they see in you the qualities of a Christian?

If you had something very valuable and you found out you were the only one in the world who had it, what would you do?

Well, what if you found out you had the only Bible in the world, what would you do with it? Would you toss it about carelessly, or lay it on the shelf to collect dust?

Of course, you do not have the only Bible. There are millions sold each year, and most homes have more than half a dozen copies.

Why do we take the Bible so lightly? Why do we not recognize it as a letter from our Creator and ruler?

Friend, treasure the Bible and study it daily. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

There is an old story of a chicken and a pig that illustrates on of the truths of life. A chicken and a pig were going down an old dirt road, when they noticed a sign telling of a banquet to be given for a charitable organization. Both the chicken and the pig thought they should help, but could not think of a way. Suddenly, the chicken said, “I know! I’ll donate a dozen eggs, and you can donate the ham.” The pig said, “Hold it. A dozen eggs from you is just a contribution but a ham from me is a real sacrifice; why, it’s total commitment.”

Well, that is exactly what God wants from each of us. He does not want just a contribution with an hour or two of church attendance on Sunday. He wants total commitment; He wants your life.

Romans 12:1 says, “present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service.”

A small boy was asked to put together a map of the world that had been cut into numerous pieces. In just a few minutes, he completed the assignment. When asked how he completed the job so quickly, he said, “I saw the picture of a man on the back of the map. So, I put the man together, and when I got the man right, the world was right.”

That little boy taught a powerful lesson for us. If you and I want a better world, the place to start is with self. “A better world begins with me.”

The Bible reveals judgment is going to be on an individual basis. Each must give an account of himself to God (Rom. 14:12). You are not responsible for the whole world, but you alone are responsible for your part of the world.

When we stand before the judgment bar of God, we will be judged based on the words of Jesus Christ (John 12:48).

When I was growing up, there were times when I knew my mother and daddy were the meanest and nosiest people in the world. They were strict on me. I just knew they didn’t want me to have fun with my buddies because I had to tell them where I was going, who I would be with, and when I would be home.

But, a few years later, I learned of a young man who could go anywhere he wanted, anytime he wanted, and his parents never told him “NO” about anything he wanted.

And — he was miserable. He said, “I wish my dad would spank me or yell at me. At least, for once, I’d know he cared what happened to me.”

Then, I realized my parents were not being mean. Their rules showed they loved me and cared what happened to me.

The Bible says, “…obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right” (Eph. 6:1). Do the right thing. Obey your parents everyday.

When people disagree about how much something weighs, they can settle the disagreement by using scales — a standard of authority acceptable to both.

When people disagree about how long something is, they can resolve the matter by using a ruler or yardstick — a standard of authority acceptable to both.

When people disagree on the field of athletics, they resolve the matter by consulting the rulebook — a standard of authority acceptable to both.

When people disagree about any religious subject, they should go to a standard of authority acceptable to both — namely, the Bible. The apostle Paul said, “All scripture is inspired by God…so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). So, the Bible is the complete and final source of religious authority.

The only way we will ever eliminate religious differences is to stop trying to decide WHO is right and, instead, find out WHAT is right according to the Bible.

A young man who had just completed his work toward a degree in college was invited to attend an important meeting of his colleagues. At the meeting they began to serve beer. He calmly asked for a glass of milk. The waiter was surprised but the young man showed no signs of embarrassment. One of his colleagues spoke up so everyone would hear and said, “Hey, everybody, look at the sissy; he’s afraid to drink.”

Naturally, attention was centered on the young man. Without batting an eye he turned to his friend and said, “Who’s a sissy? I don’t drink and I’m not ashamed to say so. I see others here who have been taught not to drink and they are afraid to say NO. Now, who’s the sissy?”

The Bible says that Christians are to be self-controlled (2 Peter 1:5-7). That means that we are to be strong enough to do what is right.

Ps 119:80 reads, “May my heart be blameless in Your statutes, so that I will not be ashamed.”

When you are dead, what will your children remember about you? Will they think of one who was always running off to work; to play golf; to a friend’s house; to go shopping? Or, will they remember someone who took time to show their love?

Life is passing so quickly. What are you spending your life on that outweighs a loving relationship with your children? When they look back at your life, will they remember that you met the deadline, got the contract, and paid the bills, or will they remember that you took time to laugh and play with them and listen to their needs?

The Bible says, “…do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4).

The greatest gift that any parent can give their son or daughter is their time.

Have you listened to people give reasons why they can’t read their Bible? The one reason that is given more than any other is: “I don’t have time.”

But, what if the doctor told you to stay in bed five hours each day or you will die in 3 months — do you suppose you would find time to do so? Of course you would!

Well, what if I tell you that God wants you to learn His Will and that to fail to do so leads to spiritual death. Why can we not exercise the same good judgment in spiritual matters that we do in physical matters? God said, “Be still, and know that I am God…” (Psa. 46:10). Jesus set a good example for us in Mark, chapter one. After a busy day, with people pressing all around Him, the Bible says He got up the next morning before day and went out alone to a deserted place to pray.

Take time — make time — everyday to pray and read your Bible.

How long has it been since you…

 Took the time to go see someone who lives alone?
 Wrote a letter to someone who means a lot to you?
 Visited someone who recently lost a loved one?
 Read the Bible to someone too ill to read for themselves?
 Encouraged someone who was having a hard time?
 Tried to have a Bible Study with someone you know is overcome with sin?
 Told a teen that you were proud of their efforts?
 Told your parents of your love and appreciation for them?

How long has it been? Maybe it is time to do what we know we should be doing. Will we begin today?

A farmer came into town and asked the owner of a restaurant if he could use a million frog legs? Rather shocked he asked the farmer where he could get so many? The farmer said, “Well there’s a pond near my house, and it’s full of frogs. Why they croak night and day! They’re about to drive me crazy.

An agreement was made for the farmer to bring several hundred frog legs into the restaurant the next week. A week later the farmer returned with two scrawny little wet frogs and he said, “I was mistaken.” There were only two frogs in the whole pond, but they sure were making a lot of noise.

Friends the next time you hear someone criticizing others, and they tell you “a lot of people are saying”, remember this story. It’s probably no more than a couple of chronic grouches who have nothing more to do than to just croak.

When a person claims he can’t find the time to read his Bible a while each day but never misses the newspaper. Who is he kidding?

When a person says the church pews are too hard to sit on but sits on a bleacher for hours and watches football players push each other around in the mud. Who is he kidding?

When a person says he doesn’t have the time for Christ and the church but spends evenings shopping, bowling or watching television, who is he kidding?

When a person says he can’t afford to give to the Lord but lives in a comfortable home, drives a nice car and eats well, who is he kidding?

Friends, we may be kidding ourselves with the excuses we offer, but we certainly are not deceiving God!

Most of us are scared to death of snakes and especially, poisonous snakes. Well, the thought occurred to me that there is a snake that poisons everybody, it topples governments, wrecks marriages, ruins careers, damages reputations, causes heartaches, produces indigestion, spawns suspicion, generates grief and makes innocent people cry into their pillows.

Even its name hisses. It is called GOSSIP! Office gossip, shop gossip, family gossip, church gossip. It makes headlines and heartaches.

Before you repeat a story ask yourself?
1. Is it true?
2. Is it helpful?
3. Is it necessary?

And if not, please keep it to yourself!

The apostle Paul wrote, “let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth,” and “let your speech always be seasoned.” James said, “Be slow to speak, slow to anger, quick to hear.”

To help each day be a happy and tranquil day, let us strive for the following goals:

• A little more patience to bear with ones we may not like.
• A little more humility to fulfill our duty; even if it is difficult.
• A little more courage and strength to bear the trials that disturb our peace of mind.
• A little more charity so as not to manifest our hurts.
• And, above all, a little more prayer to draw the righteous Father into our hearts and keep Him there.

The Bible says, “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)

This day, month and year will largely be what we determine to make it. Let us set our goals to daily be closer to the Father.

When David faced the giant Goliath he was only a teenager, but he had a maturity in his faith in God far beyond many who were older.

At a young age, David had learned the tried, tested and proven fact — there is nothing, absolutely nothing impossible for the Almighty Father.

Friends, we often face a mountain, a difficult struggle that seems impossible to overcome. God’s children must remember that there is no force, power, or obstacle too great for our heavenly Father!

Jesus said, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matt. 19:26)

God has not promised ALL will go well with us ALL of our life. But to those who love and obey Him, He has promised to be with them, to give them support, strength, to walk with them. Give your life and your struggles over to God.

Some time ago, I passed by a house with a sign in the yard that read “Home for Sale.” I thought, “They’ve got it all wrong. It’s a house for sale.”

Later I discovered the couple was getting a divorce, dividing everything, so maybe it was a home for sale.

The first of three divinely ordained institutions that God established was the home — the family.

May we express appreciation and praise to the men and women who are committed to keeping their home as God desires, and also being good fathers and mothers, training their children in the way of righteousness?

Sell your house if you must, but please do not sell you “home.”

My family and I used to enjoy wonderful vacations in northern New Mexico. As we were passing one time through the small town of Clayton, New Mexico, I had been driving the speed limit all day. Just then a police officer pulled me over and quickly informed me I was “SPEEDING!” I knew there must be a mistake. The officer said, “This is a 35 mile an hour zone!” I was still driving 50. The speed on the sign I had previously seen. I missed the 35 mile an hour sign.

What “I thought” did not matter. I was speeding. I was guilty, even if I thought I was obeying the laws of the land. I received a ticket, and paid the fine.

What we “think” in religion does not make it right. It is possible to “think” we are doing God’s will, and be wrong. Let us “prove all things” (I Thess. 5:21) and “do the will of the Father” (Matt. 7:21).

On a tombstone in a cemetery the following words were found:

“Remember friend as you pass by,
As you are now so once was I;
As I am now, you soon will be
So prepare to die and follow me.”

Some one else had written with a black crayon under the above words:

“To follow you I am not content
Until I learn which way you went.”

Christ left us an example that we should follow His steps (I Peter 2:21). The apostle Paul said follow him, as he followed Christ (I Corinthians 11:1).

With the passing of each day, we are one day closer to death, judgment, and eternity. Are you ready to face our Lord in judgment?

There are over four million miles of roads in the United States. There are good roads and bad roads. There are horse trails that are now major highways. Trails once traveled by stagecoach are now traveled by eighteen-wheelers. Roads are more dangerous than ever because there are people on the road with more horsepower than horse sense!

Jesus talked about two roads that represent our lives. “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13, 14).

Because there are two roads, everyone has a decision to make. You can choose your road in life, but you can choose not to follow that road. Whatever decision you make will determine the direction you go. Do not expect to travel the broad way all your life and enter through the strait gate. Ultimately, the decision of direction will determine your destiny.

What road are you traveling on? Which direction are you going? When you get to where you are headed, where will you be?

Jesus once said, “If the Son therefore makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
Living a pure life, means surrendering to Jesus Christ. But some people don’t want to surrender because they say they want to be free.
What if a train said, “I don’t want to run on these tracks? I want to be free.” Then off through the meadow it would go. What if the kite said, “I want to be free? I don’t want to be tied to a string.” The string breaks and down it goes. What if a tree said, “I don’t want to be planted in the earth? I want to be free.” And it is jerked up from the earth and dies.
Everything that is truly free functions best when it functions as God made it. God made you to know Him and to love Him.
James, the Lord’s brother wrote, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

Would you like to be eternally happy? Many seek happiness in all the wrong places. They search and search for “synthetic salvation” at the bottom of a liquor bottle or pill bottle.

In His most memorable sermon, Jesus tells us the key to true happiness. When the Bible uses the word “blessed,” it refers to a happiness that finds its source in God and God alone. Notice Jesus’ keys to happiness:

“Blessed are those who recognize they are spiritually helpless…
Blessed are those who mourn…”
Blessed are those who are gentle…”
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for God’s approval…”
Blessed are those who show mercy…”
Blessed are those whose thoughts are pure…”
Blessed are those who make peace…”
Blessed are those who are persecuted for doing what God approves of…”
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, lie, and say all kinds of evil things about you because of me.”