NOTHING BUT LEAVES...

During the week between the "triumphant entry" into Jerusalem and His crucifixion, Jesus never stopped teaching.  He taught me a lesson this week from the Scripture in Mark 11:12-26, where He placed a curse on a fig tree.

I must admit that, after having read this same passage scores of times in my life, my perception has almost always been the same.  Understandably, since Jesus was hungry (verse 12), He would want to satisfy that natural feeling by having a few figs for His early morning breakfast.  In the distance ahead, He saw a fig tree already in leaf and "went to find out if it had any fruit" (verse 13a).

It always puzzled me, however, that He looked for figs although "it wasn't the season for figs" (verse 13b).  Jesus well knew it wasn't the time for harvesting figs, both, because fig trees were very common in His homeland, and, because He made fig trees to begin with (John 1:1-3).  Why, then, did Jesus hope to find figs on the tree to eat?

In my yard I have several fig trees that are between three to twelve years old.  We have a long growing season here in the southeastern United States.  Naturally, those trees have started the "leafing" process this year.  Over the years I have observed that, occasionally, on one or two of the trees a fig or two may start early growth and ripen by the time the leaves have filled out.  Therefore, Jesus may very well have expected to find a fig to eat.

In addition to finding something to eat, it is a normal thing to expect, at this point of early Spring growth, several tiny figs will have appeared already.  A healthy fig tree will start showing the prospects of fruit early on.  There are still figs in my freezer from last year's picking.  By now, if there aren't any tiny figs appearing on my trees, I don't need to expect any harvest this year.

But, what about my lesson?  Actually, this full passage of Scripture has a long list that will do me for many years to come.  Some of those are

• By their fruit you will know them  (See Matthew 7:15-21)  Jesus wasn't looking for grapes on the fig tree.
• His house is to be a house of prayer, not a habitat for profit or show (verse 17).
• Faith in God to answer us when we pray (verses 22-24).
• Forgiveness from us to others (verse 25).
• Forgiveness from God to us (verses 25-26).

Again, what about my lesson this week?  In the latter part of verse 13, Mark wrote, "When He reached it (the fig tree), He found nothing but leaves..."  May God help me!  This is why Jesus cursed the fig tree with these words, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again."  Jesus was teaching His disciples, "and His disciples heard Him say it." (verse 14b).

It was "the chief priests and the teachers of the law" (verse 17) that Jesus spoke about, but it was to the disciples that He taught.

• Don't make "just a show of being fruit bearers."  Nothing but leaves..
• Do something for God.  Even a few figs would have satisfied His hunger.  (verse 12).  Offer your lunch like the lad with the "loaves and fishes" in John 6:1-15.

May my prayer today sincerely not be, "I thank You that I am not like 'the chief priests and the teachers of the law' "  (See Luke 18:11)  May my prayer be, "Lord, let me feed someone today with the "fruit of the Spirit"  (Galatians 5:22-23).  May I be more than a showing of leaves with no fruit.

Join me today in praying that we bear fruit for Jesus' sake.  Join me in witnessing to the lost about a saving Savior.  Join me in sharing His wonderful love and grace--not just this week, but for a lifetime.

Share this post with your contacts, your facebook friends, g+ it, email it and use any other means to spread the love of God.

A LIFETIME OF SHARING

Growing up in my family made for a lifetime of sharing.  Several factors were involved that made this, not only a possibility, but an absolute necessity.  However, there was never any resentment toward each other. There was no "having to share."  We just did and, frankly, discovered we were happy when we did.

Some of those factors were

• There were 10 children, nine of whom were boys.
• The time frame was between 1930 and the mid-1950s.
• Close parental (and sibling) supervision, and
• Active participation in church.

I grant you that this was a different era with different life styles.  Nevertheless, may I quickly affirm that, just because there are social changes in customs and morality, Christian (and Biblical) values do not change.  Nor should our teaching and expectations.  Regardless of how the world around us tries to apply unchristian attitudes and actions on us, we should never "conform to the pattern of this world" (Romans 12:2a-NIV).

Let me explain briefly how those factors named above helped our family with sharing.  They worked individually as well as jointly.  The time frame (30's to 50's) was a period of economic depression, with war time shortages, but also with family awareness.  Large families in rural areas were the norm.  We were fortunate to have mostly one gender which made "hand-me-downs" simpler.  (Most parents seem to agree that it is easier to clothe boys than girls.)

Sharing in play time, sleeping arrangements, chores and eating were all affected by each of the factors listed. For example, the younger boys were always thrilled to be with "the big boys"--wearing what they used to wear, playing the games they enjoyed playing and, in general, doing whatever they did.  "The big boys" had the honor of choices.  The little ones were allowed to do what "the big boys" did.  "The big boys" had the experience and were looked up to.  So, in actual experience, sharing helped both to get what they wanted (needed).

Another example is in the active participation in church.  We received the spiritual education we needed  along with practice.  Then, when we were at home, we were closely supervised by our parents (or older, responsible siblings) to keep us accountable.

Don't misunderstand.  We weren't perfect.  Far from it.  We made our allotment of mistakes (and were duly corrected).  My point is this:  SHARING IS IMPORTANT IN OUR LIVES.  However, it is not automatic.  We were all born with a self-centered nature.  Only teaching and training in godly morals and principles from God's Word along with the transformation of the heart by the Holy Spirit will help us develop a lifetime of sharing as Christians.

There are many forms and avenues that may be taken in order to share as Christians.  This venue, in one posting, is not capable of enumerating them all.  But, at the very least, it should be grasped by each of us who are Christ followers that 

• We ought to share the gospel message when, where and with whom we have the opportunity (Matthew 28:18-20).
• We ought to share the gospel message by whatever means we have available (that does not detract from the message.)  (Ephesians 5:16)

A blog such as this is simply another way to share the gospel message.  In fact, if it does not accomplish that, then I pray that God will give me the wisdom to shut it down.  There are three primary reasons for sharing the gospel.

• First and foremost--to bring glory to God.  Secondly,
• For the salvation of non-believers.  Also
• For the building up of the believers.

There are many ways and means for each of us to answer God's call to witness and share His message.  In relation to this blog and its gospel message, I sincerely ask you to share this on any and all of the social networks you use, such as Facebook.  This will reach your friends and contacts, who may do the same with theirs.  Google Plus (g+) is another means to share, whether you do so for all, just specific circles or for specific contacts within circles.  Whether you use a desk top, mobile or email, the hope is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

LIVING IN EVIL DAYS

Paul understood that one's Christian experience and relationship with God must be maintained on a regular basis.  He not only preached to convert sinners but also taught his converts how to live daily.  He was great at a "follow up" ministry--going back to visit to see how they were doing (Acts 15:36).  Also, a large part of the New Testament is made up from Paul's letters to the churches to continue their development as Christians.

One instance of this follow up is the epistle to the Ephesians.  In chapter 5, Paul encourages them to "be imitators of God" (v. 1) and builds up to verses 15 and 16--warning them that "the days are evil."

Anybody that can't see that the days we live in are evil is not awake (see vs. 13 and 14).  Have you watched the news on TV lately?  The world is in a turmoil, with wars, massacres and other threats.  In our own country we are bombarded with robberies, murders and rapes.  And, its not always far away.  Often its in our own state or city.

Politically, we see graft and greed.  Environmentally, we see earthquakes, tornadoes, storms and/or droughts.  Economically, there is homelessness, bankruptcy and financial devastation.  EVERYWHERE THERE IS EVIL!!

How do we live in an evil world?

My sharing today is simple.  Paul said "Wake up", "be careful", and "be wise."  The KJV of verse 16 is translated "redeeming the time, because the days are evil".  (Italics mine).  The New American Standard Bible translation of the same verse is "making the most of your time, because the days are evil."  (Italics mine).  The NIV translated verse 16 as "making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." (Italics mine).

• Redeem the time
• Make the most of your time
• Make the most of every opportunity.

In each of the three translations we are cautioned "because the days are evil."  Wake up to what's going on around you;  be careful how you live;  be wise in your walk. Take care of your time.  Don't waste it.  Realize that your time provides you with opportunity--opportunity to live your Christian life before others and to share your experience with them.

Father, help me to stay awake and aware of the evil in the world around me. Grant me wisdom to walk before others so You may be glorified.  May I use my time in sharing Your Word and Your Ways.  Amen.

Will you share your life and time with somebody today?

If you will, share this post with your friends and/or contacts.

As always, your comments are appreciated.

REAL FRIENDS ARE FOREVER

As a teenager about to go to college, I was fortunate enough to have a pastor, who became one of my closest friends.  He was a special kind of person-easy to love and always loving in return.  He was a mentor to me before I knew what a mentor was.

This relationship developed into a friend/love situation with his entire family.  His wife was always willing to include me-in meals, in music, in family events.  She made me feel special and always welcome in her home and their lives.

Their children, three daughters and one son, were younger than I.  The daughters sang as a trio, with "perfect pitch" harmony-on the order of the Andrews sisters of the  40's or the White sisters of gospel music fame.

Typically, as a teenager, when I left home (and this relationship) to attend college, my entire life changed.  I went about my life with additional friends, marriage, children, career, etc.  In fact, I rarely saw them anymore.  However, I can honestly say, I never thought of them again without having the warmest possible feelings for friends and family.

The last time I had the occasion to see the husband and wife was approximately thirty years ago.  I was traveling through the city where they lived.  As only friends or family can do, I "dropped by" their home without even calling in advance.

Our visit was as if we had seen each other the week before.  The love for each other was as keen as before I left to continue my education.  Friends are like that--it lasts forever.

The last contact I had with the parents was nearly three years ago.  The wife had gone to the trouble of finding my current address and sending me a note.  This spurred me to the point of calling her to say "hi" after so many years.

Last week, I accidentally "stumbled" upon the envelope she had used to send me that note.  On it, I had made notes of phone numbers and addresses of the family.  In making sure of correct information, I "googled" his name on the internet.  What I found was his obituary from the first of this year.

I immediately began to attempt to call each member of the entire family.  The mother was unable to recognize me since she had lost almost all her hearing.  I was able to reach two of the daughters and the son.  How special those conversations were!

It was certainly sad to learn of my mentor's death.  But the sadness was not because of his death.  He, like Paul, had "run his race" and was at "home with the Lord."  The sadness was only in our missing him.  Even in missing him now, our sadness will turn to joy when we see him again.  And, our conversation then will be as though we had just seen him.

In the process of talking to his children, I also learned that the mother is having a birthday next week.  She'll be 90!!  I'm hoping she has a happy birthday although I'm sure she misses her husband of 68 years!  Some day soon, she will be able to "drop by" to see him and stay.  What a reunion that will be!

REAL FRIENDS ARE FOREVER.  To tell the truth, I'm looking forward to our "catching up" as only real friends can.

Enjoy your friends while you can.
Make certain you can enjoy them forever.

Share this with all your friends.

NOT ABOUT WRITING

For several days I have been praying that God would help me with my writing skills.  I so desperately want to be used to help others with this blog.  It dawned on me, in the middle of last night's sleep, that this endeavor was not to be about capable or excellent writing.

Simply put, the whole idea is that I am just one Christian who is sharing the lessons and the blessings which God gives me.  As I read His Word and strive to live the life He teaches me, my responsibility is to share them in every way and at every opportunity.  Once I have shared, then I must step back and let the Holy Spirit use it as only He can.

In my devotional reading yesterday from the Book of the Acts, chapters two and three, I was again impressed with the phenomenal growth of the early church.  However, last night I was reminded of how this came about.
Read Acts 2:42-47.

1. "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayer."
2. "All the believers were together and had everything in common......They gave to anyone as he had need."
3. "They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God..."
4. "And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."

The first three above discusses their devotion to the teaching of the Word, their praying, their sharing with others and having fellowship with them, and praising God.

The last of these verses shows the results ..."the Lord added."

When we do our parts and trust God with the results, He is always faithful to do His part, that is, what He wills.

This may (or may not) mean phenomenal growth in numbers.  It may (or may not) mean that the results are what we expected.  But, it will always mean that God is glorified and the church (the fellowship of believers) will be edified.

Lord, keep me devoted to the teaching of Your Word, to praying, to sharing with others, to praising You for Who You are and trusting You to provide for all the results You decide we need.

Join me in sharing what God has done (or is doing) for you.  You can help by sharing this blog with your friends and contacts.

Your comments will be appreciated.  Share them in the space below.  

NO MORE EXCUSES

During the course of the past year there have been an unbelievable number and degree of changes in my life and my family's life style.  Those changes have made continuing this blog difficult, to say the least.  Probably the most difficult is dealing with all the excuses that pop up every where.

• EXCUSES are not reasons.  Excuses are simply our means of justifying our actions.  Read Luke 14:16-24, the parable of the great supper.  The invitees began to "make excuses."  They had no reason not to attend so they made up excuses.  Most of us are adept at making excuses.  They "pop up every where."       Lord, forgive me for becoming so able and willing to make excuses--and even for having actions that need excusing.
• REASONS are realistic, rational grounds of explanation and defense.  Read Romans 12:1.  Paul pleads with the Romans to become "living sacrifices" to God based on His mercies to us.  He explains that doing so is our "reasonable service."  Lord, help me to base my actions on "reasonable service" to You for Your mercies.  I owe all that I have, I am, or I could be, to You, since it all came from You to begin with.                                                                                                          
• It is my solemn obligation to God to share His love in any way and by any means, including this blog, with all who will receive it.
• I sincerely ask that you read these thoughts and share them with your friends, contacts and followers.
• Your comments below are appreciated.
• Your prayers are earnestly coveted.

LET FREEDOM RING

On Monday of this week, we, in the United States, celebrated Independence Day.  This was, and is, a time to recognize (among many features of liberty) a rule of law of, by and for the people.  I thank God for such a freedom from tyranny this brings to us.

Yet, one day later, on Tuesday of this same week, hundreds, thousands, maybe millions of our citizens have become a virtual "lynching mob."  How quickly we forget that we are governed by a system of justice that includes a due process for all.  Yes, for all--the guilty and the innocent.

No, this system is not perfect--primarily because we are not.  Sometimes the guilty go free.  Sometimes the innocent may be punished unjustly.  Occasionally, there are factors, such as politics, money and popularity, that may influence the outcome of this process.  But this fact does not warrant our falling back on mob rule.  As citizens of this great country, we need to recognize both our blessings and our fallibilities.

As Christians (if indeed we claim to be) we must carry our thinking, and our acting, even further.  This world is tainted by sin.  Even under the best systems of justice, or within the country of the greatest freedoms, this world is not our home.  We are truly citizens of another Kingdom.

And, as such, we can rest assured that God, Himself, will mete out perfect justice. The guilty will be punished.  The innocent will be recognized as being not guilty.  The death of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has made redemption possible for all--yes, even those who take the lives of little children.  Nor does God forget or neglect the children themselves.

It is our responsibility to pray for them and to ask God's help for all involved--criminals and victims--whoever they may be.

Join with me in interceding and letting God do the judging.


I welcome your comments below.

ELIJAH AND THE WIDOW

Since early childhood, Elijah has held a "favorite" status for me in Bible stories.  I wonder just how many times I've relived the events in the life of this brazen man of God.

Elijah was the character to whom Jesus likened John the Baptist.  (Matthew 11:14)  He "faced down" Ahab, king of Israel.  See Chapter 18, verses 16-20 of I Kings.  Single handed, he taunted 450 prophets of Baal when their prayers for fire on their sacrifices went unanswered.  Same Chapter, verses 26-29.

Earlier this week, I reread the story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath, I Kings 17:7-24.  Each time I was told, or read, a Bible story that included Elijah, my imagination was always about this "larger than life" prophet.  That is, until this last time.

This time the widow caught my attention.  There appeared to be no end of the lessons we could learn from this unfortunate woman.  Her husband, and source of income, was deceased.  A young child was all she had left of family, with no apparent means of sustaining their lives.  One more meal was all she had left.

God saw two needs, over 100 miles apart.  Near Tishbe, east of the Jordon River, Elijah was being fed by ravens when the brook dried up.  The widow was in Zarephath on the Mediterranean coast and was in dire straits.  He put them together and solved both needs.

When the two first met, Elijah had just arrived in town from the long walk.  The widow just so happened to be near the city gate at the same time, picking up sticks for a fire to cook her last meal.  How like God to plan so precisely!

Elijah asked the widow to get him a drink of water.  Immediately she went to draw the water from the well.  Most of us would, in all probability, have started voicing our complaints, bemoaning our condition.  Not this woman!  She was willing to be of service to a total stranger.

Before she could get to the well, Elijah also requested a piece of bread.  There was no bread at her house, she explained.  All she had was a handful of flour (NIV), or, a handful of meal (KJV).  That, with a little oil, she could whip up a biscuit or a piece of corn bread.  There just wasn't enough to share.

Then Elijah spoke as a prophet of God.  "Make me some first and then some for you and the boy.  God says neither your flour nor oil will give out until the drought is over." (verses 13-14 paraphrased).  People who trust the Lord act upon His Word.  She trusted and acted.  God proved Himself trustworthy.

I Kings 17:17-24 relates the event of the widow's young son becoming ill and dying.  When the mother brought her dead child to the man of God, he called on God to bring him back to life.  After God gave the child his life again, Elijah presented him to his mother alive and well.

Verse 24 of this chapter shows the faith that was confirmed in the Word of the Lord.  The last verse of I Kings, chapter 17 reads that "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the Lord from your mouth is the truth." (NIV)

God uses what we have to meet needs (ours and other's, physical and spiritual)

• When we are willing to serve others;
• When we are willing to trust and obey; and
• When we are willing to share.

How many promises do you see being fulfilled in this scripture?

How often have you trusted and obeyed in spite of your needs?  

How frequently have you found God to be ready to "supply all your needs, according to His riches in glory, by Christ Jesus."  (Ephesians 4:19, KJV)

Share your experiences with us of how God has met your needs in the worst times in the comment section below.

CONFESSING MY FAULTS

Recently, during a sermon my pastor preached, he made a statement that "jump-started" my thinking.  Actually, it was more of a confession than a statement.  He certainly wasn't trying to get his congregation to "follow his steps" in this matter.

The statement (or confession) he made was that sometimes he would "tell" God, "I'll take this one, God.  I know how it needs to be done."  I'm paraphrasing, of course.  Rather than seek the Lord's will about some things, he was admitting to doing things the way he wanted.

How refreshing!  No, not that he would go ahead of God.  But, that he, even though a minister of the gospel, would confess his own wrong doing.  James 5:16 says to "Confess your faults, one to another..."(KJV).

In recent weeks, both of the blogs I started last year have not been kept up in a timely fashion.  This has been, partially, because my wife has become the primary caretaker of her mother during these times of failing health.  As a result, both our schedules have changed drastically.

However, in keeping with the above scripture, I am also confessing to you who have been faithful readers.  My priorities have changed to make my schedule easier, instead of maintaining my vision and excitement for the blogs.

I not only confess my laxity (laziness, if you will); but I also renew my commitment  to sharing with you in both blogs--One Christian's Sharing and The Prayer Life of Jesus.  I ask your forgiveness, your prayers and your comments.

Your comments may be added below.  I thank you for them.

THE ROYAL WEDDING

The last few weeks, even more so the last few days, and non-stop this weekend---nothing has captured the multitudes more than the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Catherine.

Wars, revolts, devastating floods and destructive tornadoes have been rampant lately.  But, when one turned on the national news, the wedding came first.

As is typical, probably for most men, the royal wedding, the dresses, the hats, the pomp...none of it means much to me.  Literally, I could not care less about the whole "she-bang."

Don't think for a second that I am not excited for the two of them.  They appear to be much in love.  I join the millions around the world in hoping for their happiness.  I pray that they will use their positions of influence to bring about good to a world in need...the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lonely and, yes, the lost.

Births, weddings, anniversaries...all can be occasions that make memories for a lifetime.  Being a part of the event or occasion adds even more to the memories.  Did you get your invitation to the "wedding of the century?" Neither did I.  But, I'm not disheartened.  You see...

I have been invited to The Royal Wedding.  In fact, I'm a part of the Wedding Party.  Revelation, chapter 19, tell of the Wedding of the Lamb.  In verse 9, John was told to write, "Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb." (NIV)

Jesus told a parable, in Luke 14, of a "certain man" who "made a great supper and bade many."  Many of those who were invited began giving excuses at the time for the supper.  The "master of the house" sent for the "poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind."  He even included those in "the highways and hedges."  That's when He included me.  Not by by merits, but by His GRACE. (Ephesians 2:8).


Have you given your RSVP to your invitation to the Royal Wedding?


By taking Jesus Christ as your Savior, you become a "child of the King" through adoption into the family of God. (Galations 4:4-7).


See you at the festivities--the Wedding of the Ages.


Share your thoughts and/or questions below.  Thanks.

MY EASTER THOUGHTS

Lost
In self
And steeped in sin.

Far
From God.
No peace within.

Guilt
I knew
And shame I felt.

Hope
Was gone;
Alone I dwelt.

Death
Was mine,
For a Godless way.

Hell
I earned;
My price to pay.

Love
He knew
For all the world.

Grace
From God
To earth was hurl'd.

Life,
He lived
And Life He gave.

Blood
He shed
For me to save.

Cross,
The grave,
And Risen Lord;

Lamb
Of God,
By God's Own Word!

by James D. Foster
     April 25, 2011


This past week has been one filled with duties, responsibilities and blessings galore.  I hope that time with your family, friends and church activities have been a real joy.

As you have shared your time and food with others over the Easter holidays, I wish you would also share your thoughts with us.

Please add your comments below.  I will enjoy responding.

FAMILY PICTURES

During the last year or so, I have been trying to deal with a challenge that has proven to be much bigger than I anticipated.  It all started while in the process of preparing for a family reunion the weekend of July 4, 2010.  If you have looked at my profile, or "about me" in this blog, you must have become aware that I'm from a large family. 

Not only are we a large family but we have always been very close.  This closeness (and number of relatives) has produced an unbelievable amount of pictures.  Each of us, (including the aunts and uncles, cousins [1st, 2nd, etc.], grand parents and grand children), has kept his/her own photographs.  Every one of us seem to have scores of albums and boxes and boxes of pictures to remember, to entertain and to share on any occasion we are together.

Picture taking has changed drastically in recent years also--from "Brownies", to 35mm and now to digital cameras.  The digital has become a phenomenon itself--with adjustments for before and after snapping a shot.  Add this to the ability many have with a computer for scanning, storing and organizing pictures and it is far more than most of us ever imagined.

All of this allows me to say that, believe it or not, I have over 12,000 pictures stored in various folders and categories both on my hard drive and in the cloud (or is it "over the rainbow?").  Now I'm able to look at them; share them without sending a box of prints; and find a particular photo without searching all day long.

I have always been sentimental and as the years keep coming faster and faster, the sentimentality does, too.  So, typically, as I look at some of our family pictures, the lumps in my throat get bigger and the tears begin to seep out easier.  As I look at albums that include my deceased parents, or events that hold special memories, keeping my composure is difficult, to say the least.

Earlier today, as I was reviewing some of those photo files and the "sentimental ole me" started reacting, something special came to mind.  One of my all time favorite scripture passages is Hebrews, chapters 11,12 and 13.  It began to dawn on me that reading chapter 11, the "faith chapter," was very much like looking at a family album.  So, naturally, I had to read the passage again today (in two versions, I might add).  And, just as naturally, the "sentiment" took over as I "looked" at my "faith family."

I love my family and am realizing, more every day, just how special they are.  I want to know more about them, keep in touch with them and share with them.  Just in case you are part of my long list of "kin folks", please know that I think the world of you.

Just in case you aren't part of my earthly family, I would love to have you (if your aren't already) as a part of my spiritual, "faith family."  The lumps in my throat, the tears in my eyes and the unspeakable joy in my heart well up as I picture you and I as part of "the family of God."

As I review the family albums of my "faith family," both in Hebrews, chapter 11 and the "faith family of God," the words that begin the 12th chapter are even more meaningful.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith..." (Hebrews 12:1-2a NIV).

Are you part of "the family of God?"

You can be!

Your comments below are helpful and appreciated.

SUGGESTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Growing as a Christian is emphasized in the New Testament by almost every writer.  Paul taught this incessantly in such scriptures as II Timothy 2:15.  To the young preacher, he said, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God..." (KJV).  Peter closed his second epistle with the plea to all Christians, "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." (KJV).  Jesus is recorded by John in his gospel, chapter 5, verse 39, "Search the scriptures...they are they which testify of me." (KJV).  Acts 17:11 tells of the Bereans who received Christ under Paul.  "They received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." (KJV).

Are you still growing as a Christian?


Do you long to know more of His Word?


Development in one's relationship with the Lord comes not only from reading and studying the Bible and by talking with Him.  It also comes through reading the works of Christian writers, studying and worshiping with other Christians (Hebrews 10:25) and by living daily in the wisdom He gives us (Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV).

I am sharing with you today some of the resources I use on my computer.  Most of us are, at least, computer literate--not necessarily geeks.  We can take advantage of search engines to find other available material.  Most of you probably know how to go to various sites or even bookmark (make a favorite) internet addresses for frequent visits.  Below are some of the internet addresses I go to frequently that you may find useful.

1. http://www.ccel.org 
     Christian Classics Etheral Library
     books, commentaries, church history, etc.
     questions/answers, meditations, groups

     I especially recommend you Browse under authors and select E. M. Bounds.  You are able to read any of
     his books on prayer.  They are short but filled with growth material!

2.  http://www.godrules.net
     books listed by authors
     complete commentaries by well known scholars, i.e., Matthew Henry, John Wesley, Martin Luther, John
     Calvin, etc.

3.  http://www.studylight.org
     concordances, Bible dictionaries, etc.
     great resources for free or recommendations for purchase.

4.  http://www.philipyancey.com
     His site and his occasional blogs are thoughtful, both deep and practical.  His books are exceptional,
     especially those on prayer or grace.  I have found many of them in my local library.
     Keeping your mind filled with good Christian writings will help you devotionally.

5.  http://www.wemccumber.com
     A site for one of the most devout, interesting and practical men I have ever had the privilege of knowing.    
     His life, books, poetry, devotionals and studies--all will help you grow closer to God.

I sincerely pray that this One Christian's Sharing some of his resources will be of benefit to you in your growth.

What are some of your favorite Christian books or devotionals?


Who are some of your favorite Christian authors?


Your comments are always helpful.


Share your resources with the rest of us, if you will.
     (After all, we are in this together!)

3 STEPS TO AN ORGANIZED PRAYER PLAN

Several readers have commented in various ways to my last post.  I requested help in coming up with an organized prayer plan.  Since the needs are so great--families and friends, churches and communities, nation and world, societies and governments--we must have a plan that will cover all of these.  In addition, the organizational part of our plan must be detailed enough to keep our plan running smoothly.  Surely then, the more details and specifics we put into our plan, the more effective our prayer lives will be...

WRONG!!!  That idea seems to just bog most of us down.  Conversely, the most prevalent suggestions and most helpful means used by most of you who commented, were very simple and succinct.  For those who actually pray as a regular ministry, the plans involved Three (3) Simple Steps.

STEP ONE--SET A TIME


None of us will ever have an organized prayer plan without setting time for praying.


I don't mean by this a certain amount of time.  For a very few of us the amount of time is not a problem--but very few.  And, for those who may have plenty of time available, they are not likely--all of a sudden--to start spending lots of time praying.  For some, an hour per day may be realistic.  For others, it may be difficult to find five minutes straight in any given day.

Most of us will probably be fresher in early mornings before the day gets too busy.  Many are not naturally morning persons.  Shift workers will not always have the same times available.  Very few will be able to set the same amount of time at the same time of day routinely.

All of us, however, (barring illness or other occasional circumstances) can set aside some time during every day.  That is assuming, of course, we want to.  Legitimate excuses not to pray regularly can always be found.

Paul said in I Thessalonians 5:7 (KJV), "Pray without ceasing."  Find some time to pray daily.

STEP TWO--MAKE A LIST


None of us are likely to be very organized in our prayer plans unless we record for whom, for what and why we are praying.


James 5:16b (KJV) reads as follows, "The effectual fervent pray of a righteous man availeth much."  More often than not, the "fervent" and "righteous man" conditions are emphasized.  But, the word "effectual" means "having effectiveness."  Praying in a general manner about general needs will never be "effectual."

With a list we can
     1.  Remember the need (i.e., the person, the event, the circumstance, etc.)

We can't rely on our memories all the time.  Nor do we usually try.  We usually make a list when going to the grocery store.  We usually follow a recipe when preparing a meal or a special dessert.

     2.  Categorize the needs (i.e., for one's salvation, illness, wisdom, etc.)

Know what you're praying for specifically.  I recall no prayer recorded in the entire Bible that is a "Lord, Bless everybody" or "Lord, Heal everybody" kind of prayer.  Nor do I recall those kinds of prayers being answered.

Continuing with James 5:17-18, James recorded that "Elias prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not...And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain." (KJV)  He prayed specifically.  A list of needs with categories will help.

     3.  Record when we prayed, with results as God answers.  This suggests that a journal of some sort is a good way to keep our list.  This could be your computer or a notebook or a legal pad.  But, keep a record.

STEP THREE--FOCUS


We may develop an organized prayer plan, but we will never be effective until we focus, with real compassion.


Our focus should be on our mission of prayer.  That mission is to present the needs we know about to the only One Who can meet those needs.  Jesus taught us about this focus.  Luke tells about it in Luke 9:51.  Jesus' mission was to make redemption available for all mankind.  In fulfilling that mission, He had to go to Jerusalem, where He would be crucified, resurrected and then ascend to heaven again.  Luke said, "..When the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem." (Luke 9:51b KJV).  He steadfastly set His face!  Look up the word steadfastly.  That's real focus.

Time and again, before Jesus performed miracles or other great deeds, the Scripture tells us "He had compassion."  (See  Matthew 9:36, Matthew 14:14, Matthew 15:32, Matthew 20:34, Mark 1:41, Mark 5:19, Mark 6:34, Mark 8:2, Luke 7:13.)  He accomplished His mission on earth by staying focused on it and never lost His compassion.  For us to have an effective, organized prayer plan, we must do the same.

Do you have such a plan?
Are you maintaining it on a daily basis?
If not, I challenge you to begin today.
I am convinced that the more you pray, the more you want to pray.
Let me hear from you with your results, with your answered prayers.
Share with others to encourage them.
And, by all means, please add me to your list.

AN ORGANIZED PRAYER PLAN?

Every day that God grants me life and breath, I am learning of more reasons to pray.  There is hardly a thought that passes through my mind that does not present more people, individuals and groups, with occasions and events that need God's help.  With those needs for God's help, there is the overwhelming need for someone to lift them up to Him.  I sincerely want to be a part of that solution.

I have read--and, in all probability, so have you--of the great prayer warriors of the Bible.  To name a few--Moses, the great intercessor for the Israelites;  David, writer of prayer Psalms as well as praise Psalms;  Paul, who taught "pray without ceasing" (I Thessalonians 5:17); or James, half brother of Jesus, who taught "the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man, availeth much" (James 5:16b KJV).  In more recent history, there is Hudson Taylor, David Brainerd or E. M. Bounds.  But, reading about and being inspired by others is not enough.  We need to be pray-ers, too.

This is the purpose of my blog today.  I no longer can rely on my mind to jog my memory of all the requests for prayer that come to me.  I need to pray about the events of the world, the earthquakes, the wars, etc.  I need to remember the sick, the hungry, the lost and on and on.  My praying needs to be specific, consistent and regular.

I am in need of a more organized method for daily praying, in addition to personal devotions.  So, I am appealing to you for ideas.  If you have a method, or system, that helps you with this, please comment, email, facebook message me or even call me.  My profile should give you ample ways to get in touch with me.

As ideas are presented and are developed into a workable plan, I promise to share with you.  I'm retired, so I know I have more time than many of you.  There are mothers out there who have little personal time.  There are dads who worked long and hard before getting home to family needs, like yard work and maintenance on house and equipment.  The demands on our time, the tensions on our minds or the pressures that press on us from every direction--all show that we need help--if, indeed, we are going to pray as we should.

If you have ideas, share them, please!!


If you have an organized method for praying that you have developed, let us in on it!!


God know our needs, as well as the whole world's, before we pray.  But, in His Divine wisdom, He has chosen to use man to pray for man in His supplying the needs of mankind.

TESTS, TRIALS AND TEMPTATIONS

Books have been written.  Songs have been penned and sung.  Questions have been asked.  Mostly, WHY?  Why am I being tested?  Why am I going through these trials?  Why am I being tempted so?  Why does God let this happen?

If the truth be known, all three--test, trials and temptations, can make us better Christians.  They can let us know where we stand with God.  None of them, no matter how hard they may be to bear, should make us question God or His love and care for us.  His Word is the key to the answers that we need in facing all three.  And, rest assured, if you are a Christian, you will come face to face with each of them.

A better understanding of each of these three will help us in our dealings with them.  That better understanding comes straight for the Bible.


I.  GOD TESTS

Periodically, in our education process, tests come.  Those tests don't come because the teacher or the education system is trying to make it hard on us.
     1.  They are to help the student know how well he or she has grasped the subjects taught.  And,
    
     2.  They are to help the teacher/system know how effective the teaching has been.

Fortunately, we need not concern ourselves with the #2; that is, whether God's teaching is effective or not.  His Word and a right relationship with Him will provide the effective means.  Our concern is with #1--have we learned, are we growing, are we maturing as His disciples?

In the 22nd chapter of Genesis, God gave Abraham an exam of a lifetime.  God tested him on his belief that He would do as He said He would.  Hebrews 11:17-19 is a look at the answers Abraham put on his test.  Genesis 15:6 is Abraham's test results for his "life exam."  "Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness."

Remember, God may test you.  Get ready for your exam!


II.  GOD ALLOWS TRIALS

Tests, for the most part, come from God and have to do with our relationship with Him.. Trials, on another hand, are afflictions, difficulties and circumstances that come our way, allowed by God but not caused by God.

Job is probably the best example in the Scriptures of God-allowed trials.  It's almost as though God was bragging to Satan about the relationship He had with Job.

Don't read too much into that statement.  I'm not trying to give God human traits--like bragging.  But, wouldn't it be great if we lived so that God could "brag" to the Devil about us?

Listen to what God said about Job in Job 1:8.  "Then the Lord said to Satan, 'Have you considered my servant Job?  There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.' " (NIV)

James wrote in his epistle in verse 2 of chapter 1, "Consider it pure joy..., whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."

There are those who preach a gospel of no suffering in this world--only happiness, wellness, no poverty, no hunger...  That is not the gospel that Jesus preached.  He said in Matthew 26:11a, "The poor you will always have with you..."  He taught in the Sermon on the Mount that persecution should be expected. (Matthew 5:10-12 NIV).

Paul had to deal with his God-allowed "thorn in the flesh." (II Corinthians 12:7).  In verses 7-10 of that passage, Paul tells us why he was allowed to have this "thorn" and many other weaknesses such as insults, hardships, persecutions and difficulties.  Jesus, in verse 9, gave Paul the great promise, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (NIV)

In Acts 5, the apostles were flogged and rejoiced that they were "worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name." In Romans 8:17-18, Paul writes that "...we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."  Then he adds that "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." (NIV).

Many of the trials faced by Christians are because we are Christians.  However, there are trials to be faced in this world because of the evil in and imperfections of this fallen world.  Illness, broken homes, broken lives, poverty, hunger, etc. are a part of the world we live in.  In each case, because we are Christians, or because we live in this world, trials are a part of our lives.  And, in each case, God does not allow those trials in order to benefit Satan in his works of evil.  God does not allow those trials because He can't keep them from happening.  Rather, He allows them for His purposes of reconciling us to Him and developing us for living in His coming Kingdom.

So, as with James, in all your trials, "count it pure joy."


III.  SATAN TEMPTS--GOD NEVER DOES (JAMES 1:13)

All of God's human creation is subject to temptation.  Even the angels are/were subject to temptation.  Otherwise, how would Satan and his followers fall from their position before God?  But, that's another subject that we won't cover in this blog.

Humans were tempted both before and after the fall in the Garden of Eden.  Even Jesus, who is God the Son, while in His earthly life as Son of man and human as we are, was tempted by Satan.  Matthew, chapter four, records the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness.  Hebrews 4:15 informs us that Jesus was "tempted in every way, just as we are--yet without sin." (NIV)

Being tempted does not mean that one has sinned.  Only yielding to temptation to go against God's moral law means committing sin.  When sin is committed there are consequences.  The consequences of sin may mean sickness, financial difficulties, broken homes, etc.  Yet many will question why God has caused or allowed these consequences.  God often gets the blame when it was us who caused our problems all along.

Remember this.  Even when God forgives our sin, the consequences must still be paid in this life.

Satan is constantly doing his job and will continue until God says it's enough.  I Peter 5:8 says "...the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (NIV)  He's after you and me every step of the way.

We may be tested many times in many ways.  There may be trials along our journey.  But, for all those the God gives or allows, Romans 8:28 is a promise that "all things work together for good, to them that love God..." (KJV)

While temptation itself is inevitable to us all, yielding to it is not.  Yes, we humans make mistakes, misjudgments, miscalculations, etc.  We may actually yield to temptation and thereby sin.  John says in I John 2:1a, "...if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." (KJV)

Paul, in I Corinthians 10:13, gives us a first defense.  "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up to it." (NIV)

There are many weapons in the Christian armory to use in defeating Satan in his job.  Look them up.  Hold on to God's promises.  Here are just a few scripture references that will keep you company through all of life.  Ephesian 6:10-18, James 4:7-8 and I Peter 5:8-9.

What are some of the problems that you face?  In what ways do you feel God has tested you?  How are you suffering in your life, your family, your work?  Have you looked to God's Word and His church for strength and help?

We used to sing an old chorus, "I know the Lord will make a way for me..." 

GOD'S GIFTS AND BARBECUE

During much of the 1980's and 1990's, my wife and I owned and managed a southern style barbecue restaurant.  In addition to serving a constantly growing customer base, we were blessed with the regular tasting and enjoying my favorite food.  Southern boy that I am, we called it "bobby-q."

The barbecue meats included pork, beef, chicken and pork ribs.  We also added to the menu hickory-smoked chicken wings, fried fish and an assortment of home-style vegetables and desserts.  Mmmm...I can smell it now...and almost taste it.

All of the barbecue was cooked in a specially designed smoker that used the heat and smoke from a real, live fire of hickory wood.  That fire, unfortunately, had to be started every morning and maintained all day long.

So, when reading my Bible today in my morning devotions, my attention was "vice-gripped" by one of the verses.  The passage was the first chapter of II Timothy.  The particular verse was verse 6, where Paul told Timothy to "fan into flame the gift of God..."

Every person who believes on the Lord Jesus Christ and receives Him as Savior, also receives a gift from God.  That gift can be one (or more) of the gifts discussed in scriptural references such as I Corinthians 12.  Don't get "hung up" by any particular gift.  It is for God to decide what gift.  And all the gifts are for building up the church body.  But, our job is to "fan into flame" that gift in order to be effective.

That's when the comparison began to hit me.  In order to have that barbecue cooked, somebody had to "fan the flame."  And the same is true regarding the gift God gave to me, if that gift can be used for edifying the church.

The version of the Bible that I was reading was the New International Version (NIV).  I quickly reached for the King James Version (KJV).  It translated the same part of verse 6 as "stir up the gift of God."  I then read the same passage from the New American Standard Bible (NASB).  It read "to kindle afresh the gift of God."

It was the combination of these translations that gave me a much more complete meaning.

In the barbecue restaurant, when we came in the first thing in the morning, we stirred the coals from the previous day's fire.  This caused the coals to become live, hot coals.  Then, we added some kindling (paper; very dry, small pieces of wood; or even "fat lighter" pine splinters).  Finally, we fanned the hot coals and kindling until a flame started.  Only when the flame was going could we add more hickory wood and begin to maintain the fire.

This is why I make Bible reading, praying and listening to the Holy Spirit a daily practice.  Often, He uses everyday experiences to teach me...Sometimes it's a combination of versions of the Scriptures...Other times it's a book I'm reading.  But, God always teaches me, if I keep my heart and mind open to Him.

Father, teach me today the ways You would have me use the gift You gave me.  May I keep the flames going on my gift so You may build up Your church and bring glory to Yourself.

Your comments are helpful.  Thank you for sharing.

I AM

Popeye, the spinach swilling sailor of cartoon fame, had a saying about himself that I shall never forget.  "I yam what I yam and I can't be any yammer."  That impressed me as a child growing up in a way that only a child could be.  That silly quote has stuck with me over the years; but, now it has an adult Christian perspective.

God spoke to Moses on the occasion of the burning bush in the desert.  (Exodus 3)  He told Moses that He had heard the cries of the Israelites and had seen their oppression.  He was sending Moses to lead His people out of Egypt.

Moses was reluctant.  "Who am I to go?', Moses replied.  God said in answer, "I will be with you."  "What do I tell the Israelites if they ask Your name?", Moses said, trying to get out of the job.  God gave Moses His name.  "I am who I am.  Tell them 'I Am' sent me." (verse 14).  He Who was, Who is and Who is to come.  That's Who God is.

In the New Testament, in the Gospel According to John, are recorded the well-known "I am" statements of Jesus.

1.    I am the bread of life............John 6:35
2.    I am the light of the world.....John 8:12
3.    I am the door.......................John 10:9
4.    I am the good shepherd........John 10:11
5.    I am the resurrection and the life..John 11:25
6.    I am the way, the truth and the life..John 14:6
7.    I am the vine.........................John 15:5

 
There is no part of our lives that this does not cover.  He is who we need.  He is all we need.  In the Old Testament "I Am" sent Moses.  In the New Testament, "I AM" came to us and lived among us.  And, if you let Him, He will live in you.

How does the "I Am" name apply to us?  Two verses by Paul describes who and what we are.  In I Timothy 1:15, Paul said, "...Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief." (KJV)  Then, in I Corinthians 15:10a (KJV), the Great I Am meets the human "I am".  Paul said, "But by the grace of God, I am what I am..."


A song entitled "I Am Not Worthy", written by Beatrice Bush Bixler tells this story well.

     1.  I am not worthy the least of His favor,
          But Jesus left heaven for me;
          The Word became flesh and He died as my Savior,
          Forsaken on dark Calvary.
chorus:  I am not worthy this dull tongue repeats it!
             I am not worthy this heart gladly beats it!
             Jesus left heaven to die in my place.
             What mercy, what love and what grace!
     2.  I am not worthy the least of His favor,
          But "In the Beloved" I stand;
          Now I'm an heir with my wonderful Savior,
          And all things are mine at His hand.
     3.  I am not worthy the least of His favor,
          But He is preparing a place
          Where I shall dwell with my glorified Savior,
          Forever to look on His face.

If you are interested and will take a moment, you can hear a trombone solo of the melody of this song on youtube at the following address:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4moqu17ggim.

Beginning a New Blog

My last two blogs on this site were about prayer.  In fact, I made the statement that over the next few weeks, maybe months, the subject would be regarding prayer, especially the prayer life of Jesus.

Instead of blogging about prayer on this site, I have decided to start a new blog entitled, "THE PRAYER LIFE OF JESUS."  For your information the blog address (URL) will be  http://prayerlifeofjesus.blogspot.com.

Beginning this week end I will start posting on this subject.  I encourage you to read, follow, comment about and share both blogs with others of your friends, neighbors and acquaintances.

There are very few topics that we can blog about and study from the Bible that are more important than prayer, especially from the example and teaching of Jesus.

"One Christian" will continue to share with you what he has learned from the scripture and the Holy Spirit.  Now we will endeavor to share even more specific studies on the prayer life of Jesus.  If there is any reason why we should pray, it's because Jesus prayed and taught his followers to pray also.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR PRAYING?

My daughter is married to an active pastor.  Recently they attended a state-wide "preachers' retreat."  These meetings include seminars, activities and worship services.  Generally speaking, this is a time of mental, physical and spiritual growth and development.  Therefore, most pastors and spouses look forward to this time in their schedules as "must attends."

After the recent event, my daughter related a story to me that she knew would be of interest to me.  At one of the worship services the leader called on one minister to lead the group in prayer.  The minister, in particular, was a devout, but humble soul, who had pastored for decades at the same church effectively.  My personal knowledge of and friendship with him made the following very believable.  The leader referred to this gentleman as "an icon among us."

My friend stood to pray, not having known in advance how he would be introduced.  He started his prayer, "Lord, You know that I'm no icon.  But, I know You and You know me."  My daughter didn't tell me what else he said.  She did say, however, that the impact the above words had on the whole group was profound and soul-searching.  His humility before his Almighty God was obvious.  But his relationship with Him was revealing. They knew each other personally.

I can't think of any better qualification for leading any group in prayer.  I can't wish to have more of an "in-road" to God than this when I pray--whatever the occasion, whatever the needs, whatever the situation.

Lord, You know everything about me.  Help me to learn all I can take in about You.

Over the next few weeks, perhaps months, my sharing with you will be about prayer.  It will especially be about the prayer life of Jesus.  Please comment to let me know your thoughts, your feelings and your needs.