Leave it to adults to make the simple things in life complex. Some where along the way, age has a way of corrupting the innocence of youth. Time tends to change people for the worse. Subsequently, the joy of life often loses its luster, replaced by hardened hearts that result in misery. This is where the scattering begins.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, Ecclesiastes 3:5.
When individuals seek to expand their comfort zone, grow spiritually or engage in learning new things, this development does not go unnoticed by others. These areas of interest provide direction, guidance and vision for each new day. However, when these practices are postponed, stop and cease to exist, a subtle transition occurs. Even those with good intentions may be shocked one day when you wake up, wondering how far you have strayed from these habits.
“Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters,” Luke 11:23.
I think this is what Jesus means by the verse above. Human beings were created to gather, celebrating and sharing the good news of a Messiah who can save and forgive you from your sins. Discipline, hard work and worldly pursuits only go so far. Those who try to live life on their own can only fake happiness for so long until the void in your heart leaves you feeling empty again and again. Possessing a “what’s in it for me mindset” results in the scattering of mankind. Yet, the cure to this condition is found in the Holy Spirit, leading you to begin gathering for Jesus.
When professional athletes struggle to reach their full potential, videos are examined to see what bad habits or flawed fundamentals are present. Unfortunately, in life most people don’t have film to examine. Rather, individuals are forced to rely on friends, self reflection or therapists to turn floundering careers around.
Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap, Galatians 6:7.
One of the forces at work which determines positive or negative results in the Sowing Principle. What comes around goes around is an earthly way to describe the biblical expression: you reap what you sow. Essentially, if you serve others, the Lord will honor this decision by sending unexpected blessings in times of need. Meanwhile, if the idea of being served by others entices you, the rewards for this choice will be temporary; resulting in a permanent void inside of your heart.
“Give and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you,” Luke 6:38.
Jesus explains this concept to his followers in the verse above. In the Parable of the Sower found in Matthew 13, Jesus uses the imagery of a harvest to illustrate this principle. Those who are planted within a fertile soil, environment, production increases. Thus, if you reach a point in life where you are disciplined, grounded and serving others with your God given gifts, it’s possible to experience bountiful blessings. Yet, if you feed your sinful nature, pursuing selfish desires, temporary pleasures will quickly vanish leaving a trail of heart break. The choice is yours.
As someone born with a severe speech impediment, I often wonder why God allows suffering on earth. From a logical perspective, I understand that enduring trials makes individuals stronger over time. Yet, I feel as if I spent the first portion of my life silenced by Satan.
Then a demon-oppressed man who was blind and mute was brought to him, and he healed him, so that the man spoke and saw, Matthew 12:22.
Based upon the verse above, I wasn’t alone as demons and evil spirits have the power to cause someone to be mute. Although I am not a doctor, I’ve heard plenty tell me “we really don’t know what’s causing this or that.” Thus, there are medical conditions that can only be cured through spiritual activity.
And Jesus said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer,” Mark 9:29.
While Hollywood films usually portrays demons that take the form within demonic possession, this isn’t the whole story. Demonic oppression is the most common form, likely occurring within the lives of countless individuals daily. Without a hedge of protection from prayer, anyone is vulnerable to this attack. Whether it’s the inability to say what’s on your heart or distracted by powers of darkness, this threat is real. Therefore, if you want to be set free from Satan’s clutches, seek out prayers warriors in your church so that the good news about Jesus Christ will be professed.
There is one common term that I heard as a teacher which was foreign to me initially. When my school developed a program to help these students, I began to grasp some of the learning disabilities which exist. Yet, as I spent time with my cousin Mary the past 24 hours, I have a better understanding of what it means to have a special needs child.
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus, Philippians 4:19.
Eight years ago, my cousin gave birth to twins, a girl and boy. A great job and two healthy children provided a promising future. Yet, an untimely divorce followed by a late diagnosis of her son has left Mary in a no win situation. Based upon my recent interaction, my heart goes out to any family who is given the task to raise a child with special needs.
Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart, Psalm 37:4.
I tend to be a confident person, but when it comes to special needs, I feel helpless. Depending upon the specific condition, I become paralyzed, not knowing what to say or do. While most programs the government attempts to run usually fails, special needs children is an area where family and parents need help to overcome these extreme situations. May God raise up leaders to address and solve this growing need in America.
When radio was in it’s prime, I spent summer days as a teenager hanging out on my back deck with friends listening to music. Except for all request lunch hours, you could guess which dozens songs were played on an hourly loop until the next set of singles were released. The only thing comparable from this era that remains today is Delilah Radio. One of the few DJ’s to survive advances in technology, Delilah’s nightly show plays songs to get it’s listeners through the storms of life.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you,” Deuteronomy 31:6.
Like the various genres that exist, my tastes in music has evolved over time. Early on, I turned to songs from Air Supply, Chicago and REO Speedwagon to get me through trying times. Unfortunately, some of these songs made me more depressed, especially ballads by Chicago. Thus, I began searching for something more meaningful. Lyrics with encouraging, positive and uplifting messages. My good friend Mindy introduced me to a new sound, inviting me to my first Christian concert. My swim coach Ken Horne who also served as the Fellowship of Christian Athlete’s school huddle leader, furthered my knowledge of this brand of wholesome music.
And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” – Matthew 8:23-27
These two individual inspired a life long quest to uncover hidden gems. This lead me to discover a huge Christian warehouse where I could listen to music before buying it. Meanwhile, Jackie, the former owner of the Sonshine House was my guide to find my favorite songs played a new local Christian station. When I didn’t have anyone to ask, I developed a successful system based upon album covers. Those artists who spent a little extra money on design and graphics usually produced solid tunes. Sure, I bought plenty of duds void of any decent songs, yet I pressed on to share my passion with others.
Whenever the spirit from God came on Saul, David would take up his lyre and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him., 1 Samuel 16:23.
On this journey, I came across Christians who practiced legalism, referring to any secular form of music as being inspired by the Devil. Years later I read a quote from Wes King in an article on the difference between Christian and secular music. King’s opinion struck a cord with me that I have adopted. “There are two types of music, that which glorifies God and those that glorify self.” Depending upon your preference, you need to make sure you don’t get caught up judging the opposing side. Rather, it’s best to seek and tell others about those songs which help you overcome the storms in life. Below is a list of artists and topics that have helped me endure various hardships in life.
As a teenager I attended funerals of classmates who committed suicide. A few decades later, I went to wakes of former students that I taught whose lives were cut short by cancer. Yesterday, I came face to face with death, saying goodbye to my cousin Billy who died suddenly last week.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly, John 10:10.
Born three months before me, Billy is the first member of my father’s side of the family to pass away since my grandmother died twenty years ago. As I paid my final respect to Billy before the casket was closed, I felt as if I could be next. Thus, I am compelled to value and cherish every breath that I take.
For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it, Matthew 16:25.
When the busyness of life consumes you, it’s easy to become distracted from what really matters. Unfortunately, it usually takes some sort of tragedy to snap you out of this malaise. Despite what you need to do to pay your monthly bills, make sure you don’t lose sight of the frailty of life. Rather, open your eyes, look around and cherish each day on earth the Lord provides.
As congress continues to debate the future of healthcare in America, there is a Texas two step occurring behind the scenes. The House of Representatives and Senate are revealing the first act in public through a display of anger, concern and tears. Despite putting on a good show, dirty dancing starts behind closed doors as government leaders are allowing healthcare lobbyists to write legislation which will ensure these companies and executives will make millions of dollars annually.
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others, Philippians 2:4.
If you don’t believe me, here’s a slice of logic to prove my point. If Obama Care is so great, why would Democrats and Republicans exempt themselves from this program? As Jerry Maguire once said, “show me the money.” Well, if you follow the money, it’s interesting to find that most of these public servants end up millionaires before retiring. How is this possible? The dirty little secret is that anyone who is elected receives the best healthcare in the world. Meanwhile, average citizens are forced to deal with rising premiums, less choices and limited healthcare.
Just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved, 1 Corinthians 10:33.
While the main stream media spend countless programming hours chirping about Russia collusion with the Trump Administration, the real collusion is occurring between lobbyists and members of Congress. Since this fact conflicts with political talking points, the cameras attention are pointed in a different direction. Hoping that out of sight, out of mind will squash any attempts to reveal this truth, only time will tell the future of healthcare. Yet, if Americans sit on their hands without raising a voice, life could soon become like Charlie Gard who was denied emergency medical care, left to die due to a government run healthcare.
Since the first professional baseball team was formed in 1869, 254 Major League Baseball players have collected 2000 hits during their career. While certain stats were not held early on in it’s history, 18 National Basketball Association members have amassed over 2000 rebounds before retiring. In the 97 years of professional football, only 7 NFL running backs have rushed for 2000 yards in a season. Meanwhile, only one player in the history of the National Hockey League, Wayne Gretzky has accumulated over 2000 total points in their career. Today, I have joined a special group with the posting of my 2000th blog at Express Yourself 4Him.
In view of this achievement, I wanted to reply to some of the most common questions shared with me as comments over the past five years. First, I chose Word Press as my sight for blogging due to recommendations of a few close friends with established blogs back in 2012. While I haven’t paid the additional $25 to upgrade Express Yourself 4Him, I am close to entering into a relationship with a vendor that prompt me to professionalize this site.
For those of you are new to this blog, I was inspired to create a spiritual journal like the theologian Augustine. Following two years of seminary classes, I was struck by how Augustine regularly sat on his back porch, staring at his garden. This time of reflection gave birth to his impact on theological advances through a collection of books left behind as his legacy. While I have no desire to go back into full time youth ministry, I pray that my own insights on current events may help those striving to become more like Christ daily.
If you want to start your own blog, there are three things to consider. First, focus on a specific area of expertise where you can develop a following based upon your knowledge. Second, set aside a time or day of the week where you plan a series of blogs. When I first started, I suffered from periods of writers block, lacking direction, ideas and topics. On Sunday, I watch a few sermons before attending church, taking notes in the journal next to my bed. When my eyes behave, I try to read chapters about issues that I want to know more about. In addition, I use sticky notes when I am not home to jot any ideas when the Holy Spirit speaks to me. Finally, if you want to persevere as a blogger, you must be disciplined, putting aside apathy to press on to publish blogs.
Many of you have urged me to write longer blogs which I will do when I feel compelled. However, after working with a PhD from Penn State, Dr. Vito, I discovered through trial and error that three paragraphs is ideal for the average reader. Anything shorter doesn’t drive home a point and by expanding a paragraph or two, I tend to lose people’s attention. Thus, unless God changes my mind, I will continue with my current format. One last thing before I say goodbye for the day, always remember that life is an adventure. The more bloggers are able to paint a vivid picture, new followers will come. Don’t get caught up with numbers. Rather, let quality writing do your talking.
When the term vessel comes up in a conversation, I immediately visualize a cruise ship, sail boat or the SS Minnow from Gilligan’s Island reruns. While I have never experienced the amenities of a luxurious cruise, this vessel takes you where you want to go. Sure, the weather may not always cooperate, but the goal is to arrive at each selected destination.
Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work, 2 Timothy 2:21.
When it comes to healing, the Bible refers to vessels as a vehicle for change. Thus, spiritual vessels must avoid the popular stops and distractions the majority tend to visit. Jesus uses the analogy of a broad road that attracts a large crowd of people. However, in the end, this place is empty, void of any permanent satisfaction.
For thus says the Lord of hosts concerning the pillars, the sea, the stands, and the rest of the vessels that are left in this city, Jeremiah 27:19.
Unfortunately, if you want to be a vessel of healing, you must accept the fact that this will be a lonely journey. Jeremiah is nicknamed the weeping prophet as many of the messages he received from God to convey to Israel were negative. The truth hurts as Jack Nicholson famously states as Colonel Jessup, “you can’t handle the truth.” Vessels of healing must ignore the temptation to be popular by faithfully obeying the Holy Spirit. In a world desperate for leadership, healing and truth, step out in faith as the Lord is waiting for A Few Good Men, to become vessels of healing.
Modern technology has developed a way for certain types of aircraft to re-fuel while in mid-air. Air tankers contain a nozzle which extends and connects to crafts low on fuel like Air Force One in the 1997 Harrison Ford film. This capability allows fighter jets to remain in the air for longer periods of time.
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness, 2 Peter 1:3.
Dietrich Mateschitz invented a drink based upon a similar concept, helping human beings refuel when your energy is lost. In 1987, Red Bull Energy Drink was sold for the first time in Austria. This formula was inspired by functional drinks from the Far East like Green Tea. Subsequently, if you feel like you’re about the crash, consumers continue to reach for this can to boost their energy.
And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord, Isaiah 11:2.
The prophet Isaiah writes about a spiritual power available to those longing for discernment, insight and wisdom. According to one of twelve disciples, the Holy Spirit was sent by Jesus following his ascension to refuel spiritually. While this Holy Ghost is invisible, it’s presence brings counsel, knowledge and understanding. If you are currently emotionally drained, out of energy or have lost your way, cry out to the Lord in prayer so that the refueling of the Holy Spirit will begin.
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