A recent survey found that only 1 out 3 Americans are truly happy with their current life. While this feeling of contentment is a temporary state, only a third of those who participated were found to be joyful and satisfied. This makes me wonder, how does happiness happen? How can individuals use the beginning of a new year and decade to turn their frown around?
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.
Best selling author Max Lucado’s newest book provides biblical insight to explain How Happiness Happens. While watching Fox and Friends over my Christmas Break, I caught Lucado’s interview to promo his latest project. Based upon this brief segment, Lucado draws upon Jesus’ teaching on giving, “it’s better to give than receive.”
One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered, Proverbs 11:24-25.
King Solomon provides another perspective on giving in the passage above. It’s unclear if Solomon is speaking about his own life or merely referring to the sowing principle. Regardless of this context, those who learn to freely give without expecting something in return will be blessed by God and others. As 2020 commences tomorrow, my prayer is that you may begin to understand how happiness happens.
The inspiration behind Eric Carmen’s song Hungry Eyes was simple, getting a new recording contract. Since Hungry Eyes was a song on Carmen’s demo reel, this song was first released in 1987 with little expectation for success. Meanwhile, Millennium Records, the soundtrack for Dirty Dancing, was looking for one more song to complete its project. Thirty two million copies later, Hungry Eyes lives on today as a classic song which reached as high as #4 on the Billboard Top 100 Chart.
The eye is the lamp of the body. So if your eye is sound, your entire body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is unsound, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the very light in you [your conscience] is darkened, how dense is that darkness, Matthew 6:22-23.
Despite the success of this song, Jesus warns a first century crowd about the dangers of developing hungry eyes. Jesus uses the analogy of light and darkness to illustrate how human eyes serve as the lamp of your body. Those who focus their attention on the good, light, will be blessed. Unfortunately, anyone who allows lust to corrupt their eyes, opens the door, welcoming evil each time people indulge their sinful nature.
Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh [craving for sensual gratification] and the lust of the eyes [greedy longings of the mind] and the pride of life [assurance in one’s own resources or in the stability of earthly things]—these do not come from the Father but are from the world [itself], 1 John 2:15-16.
According to one of Jesus’ disciples, hungry eyes are a byproduct of love for the world. As individuals taste forbidden fruit by crossing the boundaries set in the Bible, a craving for sensual gratification is conceived. When bad habits such as masturbation, pornographic and sexual immorality linger without purging these sinful tendencies from your life, hungry eyes take over, fueled by a lust for more. If today’s blog finds you in bondage, held captive by sin, ask the Lord for an escape route, 1 Corinthians 10:13, to overcome the spiritual condition known as hungry eyes.
The word unite refers to coming or bringing together for a common purpose or action. In a letter to the church at Corinth, Paul explains the meaning and purpose of communion. Whenever you partake in communion, the passage below is either read or summarized. Yet, if you exclude prayer from communion, there is a key element being overlooked.
For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are representing and signifying and proclaiming the fact of the Lord’s death until He comes [again], 1 Corinthians 11:26.
Perhaps, first century churches began taking communion services for granted, going through the motions without any personal reflection. The passage below serves as a warning, a reminder to take this sacrament seriously. To avoid this careless mistake, Paul urges readers to thoroughly examine yourself prior to eating the bread and drinking your cup.
So then whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in a way that is unworthy [of Him] will be guilty of [profaning and sinning against] the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Let a man [thoroughly] examine himself, and [only when he has done] so should he eat of the bread and drink of the cup, 1 Corinthians 11:27-28.
While in college, one of my mentors served as a pastor in a rural area. Many of his members took this passage to the extreme, not showing up at all on Sunday for church, feeling unworthy and unprepared to take communion. After a couple of months, pastor Jack stopped announcing when communion would be served, changing the weeks every month. The next time you partake in communion, prepare yourself with prayer so that contrite hearts will begin to purge sin from your life.
Until high school, I was a struggling student, caring more about fitting in than getting good grades. This immaturity caused me to surround myself with individuals with questionable character. By the time I reached junior high school, I was somewhere between amoral and naïve, going through the motions. This spiritual condition led me to miss Christ’s role in Christmas as presents distracted me from the true meaning of Christmas.
Now it is an extraordinary thing for one to give his life even for an upright man, though perhaps for a noble and lovable and generous benefactor someone might even dare to die. But God shows and clearly proves His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us, Romans 5:7-8.
Perhaps, I was hindered by Catholicism, going from point A to point B. After celebrating my first communion, my parents enrolled me in CCD, the Catholic version of Sunday School. Unfortunately, adult Sunday School classes were fun, CCD was more like going to school, but more boring. Instead of simplifying this process, the pursuits of sacraments, theology and traditions staggered my faith.
For our sake He made Christ [virtually] to be sin Who knew no sin, so that in and through Him we might become [[g]endued with, viewed as being in, and examples of] the righteousness of God [what we ought to be, approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him, by His goodness], 2 Corinthians 5:21.
The most important aspect of CCD is preparing 8th graders for Confirmation. While I still didn’t grasp Jesus’ role in the mass of Christ, I was exposed to God’s free gift of salvation, Romans 6:23. Looking back, going through the Confirmation process laid a foundation for my current faith. As you unwrap your gifts this Christmas, don’t miss the spiritual truth of a Savior born to save mankind from sinful desires that wage war against human souls.
Any book, drama or story has it’s own twists and turns. The Bible is no exception as Genesis describes a moment in history when God second guesses the creation of mankind. The author claims that the Lord regretted his decision to make human beings, disappointed by their actions on earth. The flood served as a do over, a way to re-shape the earth with descendants of Noah.
And the Lord regretted that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved at heart. So the Lord said, I will destroy, blot out, and wipe away mankind, whom I have created from the face of the ground—not only man, [but] the beasts and the creeping things and the birds of the air—for it grieves Me and makes Me regretful that I have made them. But Noah found grace (favor) in the eyes of the Lord, Genesis 6:6-8.
Unfortunately, it didn’t take long for members of Noah’s family to let God down as well. Shortly after the flood waters receded, Noah built a vineyard. According to Genesis 9:21, Noah got so drunk one night that he passed out naked on the floor, unable to make it to his bed. Apparently, the sinful nature conceived in the Garden of Eden had corrupted Noah as well. Instead of covering up his father’s indiscretion, Canaan joked about this, bringing it to his brothers attention.
And this good news of the kingdom (the Gospel) will be preached throughout the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then will come the end. 15 So when you see the appalling sacrilege [the abomination that astonishes and makes desolate], spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the Holy Place—let the reader take notice and] ponder and consider and heed [this]—Matthew 24:14-15.
Just prior to his betrayal and crucifixion, Jesus speaks of another disaster. Many scholars refer to this as the un-creation. According to Jesus, when the Great Commission has been fulfilled, the gospel preached to every tribe and nation on earth, earth as we know it will come to an end. To prepare and warn those who are willing to listen, Jesus leaves behind a series of signs to observe. The final indicator refers to an abomination that will stand in the Holy Place. Old Testament prophets also refer to this event as well.
The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what He promises, according to some people’s conception of slowness, but He is long-suffering (extraordinarily patient) toward you, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should turn to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will vanish (pass away) with a thunderous crash, and the material] elements [of the universe] will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and the works that are upon it will be burned up, 2 Peter 3:9-10.
One of Jesus’ disciples has a vision of this un-creation in the passage above. Immediately following the second coming of Jesus, also known as the rapture, a series a tribulations will systematically destroy the earth. While cable television shows concoct far fetched theories about the destruction of earth, the book of Revelation unveils how the un-creation will play out. The point of this future event is to get your life right with God through confession, James 5:16, so that you and your family don’t get left behind.
The origin of the expression shame on you comes from The Court and Character of King James. This book written by Anthony Weldon in 1651 refers to an Italian proverb which helped shape the saying “shame on you.” Shame is an unpleasant self-conscious emotion typically associated with a negative evaluation. As I child, whenever I got caught by my parents doing something that I knew was wrong, shame on you was expressed to expose my sinful act.
But I say to you, Do not resist the evil man [who injures you]; but if anyone strikes you on the right jaw or cheek, turn to him the other one too. 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your undershirt (tunic), let him have your coat also, Matthew 5:39-40.
As a former member of the print media, spending two and a half years with Travel Golf Media, I understand the power of words. On December 19, Mark Galli, the editor in chief of Christianity Today made a conscience decision to write on article expressing his opinion on Donald Trump. This piece entitled Trump Should Be Removed from Office slams president Trump’s character, immoral acts and previous relationships with woman. Meanwhile, Galli quotes the founder of the magazine, Billy Graham, to give him cover to write this scathing opinion editorial.
And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two [miles], Matthew 5:41.
If this piece made the argument that President Trump doesn’t Turn the Other Cheek, I would agree. As a former builder, Donald Trump is a fighter who has developed the mentality “if you attack me, I will strike back even harder.” President Trump’s responses in the form of comments, tweets or words can and have been offensive to others. Sure, this is one of many character flaws that every individual possesses. However, when you speak at press conferences daily or counter negative media reports weekly, turning the other cheek is not in Donald Trump’s DNA. Despite these weaknesses, president Trump goes the extra mile every daily to achieve his goal, Making America Great Again.
This they said to try (test) Him, hoping they might find a charge on which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger. 7 However, when they persisted with their question, He raised Himself up and said, Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her, John 8:6-7.
Since this article was published last weekend, Franklin Graham, Billy Graham’s son has appeared on Fox News several times to defend president Trump. Franklin Graham commented on how Christianity Today has strayed from his father’s original intent. Meanwhile, liberal seminaries have fed this article’s anti-Trump narrative to curry favor with the mainstream media. I don’t know Mark Galli nor do I follow Christianity Today. However, whenever a believer casts a stone at another sinner without first looking at their own life, this doesn’t look good. Thus, I am compelled to remember the words of my mother, “shame on you” Mr. Galli for not going to President Trump privately, following the Matthew 18 priniciple, with your concerns before writing this hit piece.
The commercialization of Christmas in the 21st century has blinded minds from an invisible gift. If you can escape from the advertisements of cars, diamond rings and other high priced items, Christmas is not about buying and exchanging gifts that many can’t afford. Rather, the mass of Christ is about accepting a promised child, the Messiah, who came to save you from your earthly imperfections.
I indeed baptize you in (with) water because of repentance [that is, because of your changing your minds for the better, heartily amending your ways, with abhorrence of your past sins]. But He Who is coming after me is mightier than I, Whose sandals I am not worthy or fit to take off or carry; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire, Matthew 3:11.
One of Jesus’ disciples records a conversation between John the Baptist and Jesus in the passage above and below. At this point in the first century, many sensed that John was the Messiah in waiting. When approached with this notion, John corrected this misnomer, explaining that he is merely preparing the way. John uses baptism to illustrate the difference between his ministry and the promised One to come.
But John protested strenuously, having in mind to prevent Him, saying, It is I who have need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me? 15 But Jesus replied to him, Permit it just now; for this is the fitting way for [both of] us to fulfill all righteousness [that is, to perform completely whatever is right]. Then he permitted Him. 16 And when Jesus was baptized, He went up at once out of the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he [John] saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him, Matthew 3:14-16.
The purpose of any baptism is a public expression of an inner faith. While John’s baptism was centered around confession and forgiveness, Jesus promises an invisible gift in John 16:13. What his disciples did not understand at the time, this gift would transfer power from priests to those who enter into a personal relationship with Jesus, Romans 10:9-11. You won’t find this gift under a Christmas tree. Rather, when you find Jesus, access is gained, Romans 5:1-5, with a goal of keeping is step with the Holy Spirit daily. May 2020 be a year where the Holy Spirit awakens your soul to this invisible Christmas gift.
While singing a Christmas carol in church yesterday, a stanza from O Little Town of Bethlehem struck a cord with my soul. After examining the lyrics, I discovered two different versions. Unless you sing the traditional version, the sixth stanza is skipped completely. As the words “Where meek souls will receive Him,” flashed on the overhead screen, my heart was moved.
Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in, and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation, Romans 10:9-10.
Immediately, a rhema, an utterance from God overwhelmed me. Humble and meek hearts are crucial to receiving Jesus as Lord and Savior, Romans 10:9-11. If hearts are broken, callous, distracted or worn down, the miracle of Christmas is ignore, lost or missed completely. One of the ways God has changed and transformed my own heart is through Christian music which has touched my soul.
Of David. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! – Psalm 103:1
As I look back on the past three decades, there are some songs that became like a refuge, soothing my soul each time I listened to the lyrics. The first song is When God Ran by Benny Hester. After Hester got divorced, most of his music was removed from Christian bookstores, but this classic song moves me each time I hear it. In college, Feel the Nails by Ray Boltz served as a source of conviction to draw me back to God each time I strayed away.
Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! – Psalm 103:2.
One of my favorite Christmas traditions growing up was attending a Christmas Eve service that ended at midnight. After my father was transferred to Cleveland, my parents started attending a local church where the priest looked just like pictures of Jesus. This Christmas Eve service began at 10:30, singing Christmas carols until 11pm. The final hour was a traditional mass that ended with Joy to the World. As you attend church this Christmas, may God refresh your memory of songs that save souls.
Before stepping down as leader of Israel, Moses gives a farewell address in Deuteronomy 30. In the middle of this speech, Moses gives a call to action in verses 15-17. These words reveal Moses’ hope for the nation of Israel, to listen to and obey God’s commands in the Torah. Based upon the passage below, the apostle Paul revisits this topic by detailing the pros and cons of obedience and disobedience.
But for those who are self-seeking and self-willed and disobedient to the Truth but responsive to wickedness, there will be indignation and wrath. [And] there will be tribulation and anguish and calamity and constraint for every soul of man who [habitually] does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek (Gentile),Romans 2:8-9.
Paul gives three explanations for why individuals end up habitually doing evil. The first two, self-seeking and self-willed, directly impact the third. Whenever anyone is self-absorbed, certain aspects of reality are overlooked. When you add to this equation by justifying and rationalizing wrong actions, the Truth within the Bible is discarded or ignored.
But glory and honor and [heart] peace shall be awarded to everyone who [habitually] does good, the Jew first and also the Greek (Gentile), Romans 2:10.
Meanwhile, Paul promises three blessings for those who habitually do good: glory, honor and peace. While Romans 7:15-18 reveals that the ability to do good is hindered by our own sinful nature, Galatians 5:25 explains how the Holy Spirit can lead to good habits. Although you may be tempted to take short cuts or cross the boundaries set in the Bible, if you want to experience glory, honor and peace, doing good is the only path that promises these blessings.
Up until a few years ago, my Christmas shopping destinations included a couple of local Christian Bookstores. Whether I was looking a Bible, the newest Christmas CD or an inspirational gift, I went to explore to see what I could find. Whether I left empty handed or not, the people I encountered made every trip worthwhile. I could write an entire chapter in a book about my previous conversations at Christian bookstores throughout the country.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it, John 1:5.
The one store which has made the most impact on my life was called the Sonshine House. During my first year of teaching Bible at Red Lion Christian Academy, I discovered that one of my students’ mom was the owner. This was sort of a reunion as Jackie, the former owner, helped me build my Christian music collection while in college. This woman of God was always encouraging, like a ray of sunshine in a dark world.
Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life,” John 8:12.
Due to the popularity of companies like Amazon, Apple Music and other online competitors, most local Christian Bookstores have vanished. While there may be a few local establishments like Blockbuster, abandoned store fronts are a sign of the times. Instead of promoting malls, retail shops and town centers, a growing number of people would rather shop online. Although this may be more convenient, the social aspect of life is being ignored. May this blog inspire you to become a light for Christ in places where the sun doesn’t shine spiritually.
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