The Bible Says
GraceNotes offers Short Devotions that speak to the heart
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Spiritual Footprint
Photo: Dreamstime
I recently read a book entitled Who Owns The Earth by James Ridgeway. In it he describes the various natural resources of the earth, where they can be found, what they are used for, their value, who controls them and how much is left.
It was interesting reading about the history of rice, cotton, oil, coal, tea, cobalt and so on, but as I read, I was struck by how much we lose sight of who really owns this earth, why it was created, and our purpose here on it.
It's not the huge multinational corporations, world bank, IMF or global markets that own the earth, it's God! God created the earth and every living thing on it. He gave man and woman reign over the earth, just as a house owner gives a tenant reign over his property. Good tenants upon leaving, will leave the house as close to the way they originally found it as possible, just as good tenants of the earth will care for it in the same manner, until God comes back to take us to heaven.
Obiligation
Each one of us plays a vital role on this earth. From the things we consume to the amount we recycle, we have an obligation to God to protect and preserve what He made, so that our children and grand children have an earth that they feel proud to preserve and protect until God returns. Let's make our footprint on this earth a spiritual one rather than a carbon one.
Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to it's kind.” And God saw that it was good. (Genesis 1:11).
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By Benjamin DuBose. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
It was interesting reading about the history of rice, cotton, oil, coal, tea, cobalt and so on, but as I read, I was struck by how much we lose sight of who really owns this earth, why it was created, and our purpose here on it.
It's not the huge multinational corporations, world bank, IMF or global markets that own the earth, it's God! God created the earth and every living thing on it. He gave man and woman reign over the earth, just as a house owner gives a tenant reign over his property. Good tenants upon leaving, will leave the house as close to the way they originally found it as possible, just as good tenants of the earth will care for it in the same manner, until God comes back to take us to heaven.
Obiligation
Each one of us plays a vital role on this earth. From the things we consume to the amount we recycle, we have an obligation to God to protect and preserve what He made, so that our children and grand children have an earth that they feel proud to preserve and protect until God returns. Let's make our footprint on this earth a spiritual one rather than a carbon one.
Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to it's kind.” And God saw that it was good. (Genesis 1:11).
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______________________________
By Benjamin DuBose. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Hoodwinked by Satan
Photo: Studiomill
The Devil has millions of people hoodwinked into the belief that they must save themselves. As some verbalize it here in the South, they’ve 'gotta get religion' before they can come to God. And my big question to this is, "Why wait?"
Why not just go to God right now! Rather than ostracize yourself from others, why not go to church where you can assemble with other sinners undergoing the same sanctification process you're going through, where you can hear the Word of God preached? Why not go to church, where God can do some working on your heart.
Church - A Hospital for Sinners
Avoiding church because you're not right with God is like needing to be hospitalized and yet waiting to go to the hospital until you are well! Churches, like hospitals, are there for sick people. We go to hospitals to get physical healing. We go to churches to get spiritual healing. Sometimes we get the idea that church is a haven for saints. In reality church is a hospital for sinners.
Refusing the Gift
Why is it that we refuse God's divine grace? Why do we refuse His garment of righteousness that He offers us freely, the one purchased at such an infinite price? How could we be so calloused and uncaring as to refuse such a heartfelt gesture from our heavenly King?
When Jesus displayed His passion for us at Calvary, His robe of perfection, His garment of light, His robe of righteousness, became our garment. At His death, His perfection, His light, His righteousness became ours.
Righteousness by Works
And now, here we are mired in misery, and trying to get right with the Lord. By our works, by our fruit and vegetable sacrifice, by our fig leaf righteousness, we desire to come clean. We think, "Isn't our sacrifice acceptable? Don't these fig leaves do the same job?"
The Gift Spurned, but Christ Still Offers Forgiveness
And so we go about our daily toil of 'getting right with God'. And all the while, Jesus is extending His righteousness in our direction and telling us, "Here, take it." And we hold up our hands and say, "Oh, no, Jesus, I couldn't do that."
"Oh, but I insist!" He urges.
"No, I couldn't do that," we continue to refuse.
"Here, just try it on," Christ insists.
"Nah, it costs too much. I couldn't afford it," we stall.
"That's okay, I already paid for it. Here, just try it on," Christ continues to hold the precious garment out for us.
"Nah, I can make it on my own," we insist.
But Jesus knows better, and so He still holds out His cloak of forgiveness and protection. All we have to be willing to do is to just put it on.
“See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes” (Zechariah 3:4).
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By Ron Reese. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Why not just go to God right now! Rather than ostracize yourself from others, why not go to church where you can assemble with other sinners undergoing the same sanctification process you're going through, where you can hear the Word of God preached? Why not go to church, where God can do some working on your heart.
Church - A Hospital for Sinners
Avoiding church because you're not right with God is like needing to be hospitalized and yet waiting to go to the hospital until you are well! Churches, like hospitals, are there for sick people. We go to hospitals to get physical healing. We go to churches to get spiritual healing. Sometimes we get the idea that church is a haven for saints. In reality church is a hospital for sinners.
Refusing the Gift
Why is it that we refuse God's divine grace? Why do we refuse His garment of righteousness that He offers us freely, the one purchased at such an infinite price? How could we be so calloused and uncaring as to refuse such a heartfelt gesture from our heavenly King?
When Jesus displayed His passion for us at Calvary, His robe of perfection, His garment of light, His robe of righteousness, became our garment. At His death, His perfection, His light, His righteousness became ours.
Righteousness by Works
And now, here we are mired in misery, and trying to get right with the Lord. By our works, by our fruit and vegetable sacrifice, by our fig leaf righteousness, we desire to come clean. We think, "Isn't our sacrifice acceptable? Don't these fig leaves do the same job?"
The Gift Spurned, but Christ Still Offers Forgiveness
And so we go about our daily toil of 'getting right with God'. And all the while, Jesus is extending His righteousness in our direction and telling us, "Here, take it." And we hold up our hands and say, "Oh, no, Jesus, I couldn't do that."
"Oh, but I insist!" He urges.
"No, I couldn't do that," we continue to refuse.
"Here, just try it on," Christ insists.
"Nah, it costs too much. I couldn't afford it," we stall.
"That's okay, I already paid for it. Here, just try it on," Christ continues to hold the precious garment out for us.
"Nah, I can make it on my own," we insist.
But Jesus knows better, and so He still holds out His cloak of forgiveness and protection. All we have to be willing to do is to just put it on.
“See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes” (Zechariah 3:4).
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______________________________
By Ron Reese. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Rock Climbing
Photo: Studiomill
Have you ever been a rock climber? I haven’t, I don’t have the courage for such activity, not even the simulated indoor rock climbs. However, I know stout-hearted people who take on the challenge of such climbing. A lot of gear is required to climb rocks. And they will tell you that foolhardy is the climber who starts out without the necessary equipment.
No, I won’t ever be what we think of as a rock climber—but every day, as a Christian, I do go into battle on rocky terrain. As I study Scripture, I learn that to survive in the great controversy between good and evil. I need to put on armor, the necessary equipment that God has lovingly provided for my protection.
Ephesians 6:14-17, lists what the Christian needs to wear for battle. Eugene H. Peterson describes this war in his paraphrase, The Message. “This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and his angels.” Indeed, this is war!
I’ve found that the best way for me to put on my gear day by day (in fact, my husband and I do this together every morning) is to ask God to dress me, starting with my feet and finishing with my head.
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By Betty Kossick. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the THE MESSAGE ®.
No, I won’t ever be what we think of as a rock climber—but every day, as a Christian, I do go into battle on rocky terrain. As I study Scripture, I learn that to survive in the great controversy between good and evil. I need to put on armor, the necessary equipment that God has lovingly provided for my protection.
Ephesians 6:14-17, lists what the Christian needs to wear for battle. Eugene H. Peterson describes this war in his paraphrase, The Message. “This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and his angels.” Indeed, this is war!
I’ve found that the best way for me to put on my gear day by day (in fact, my husband and I do this together every morning) is to ask God to dress me, starting with my feet and finishing with my head.
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Sturdy footwear that will carry me with the gospel of peace—I come to God, a repentant sinner, joyfully starting each day, with His word.
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The belt of truth and the breastplate of righteousness—which is trusting Jesus as my Savior to guide me through the land mines and the bullets of the enemy.
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The shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit—what could I do without Jesus and the Holy Spirit to go the before me? Jesus is my shield, and the Spirit’s sword rightly divides the word of truth that keeps me from defecting into the enemy’s camp.
- Protect my thinking with the helmet of salvation—as I serve my General Jesus, giving Him my loyalty, my mind will be fortified to receive the reward: a crown, that He will place on my head for being one of His faithful troops.
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By Betty Kossick. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the THE MESSAGE ®.
Treasure Trove
Photo: Studiomill
An old Butter Nut coffee can, a softball, a length of electrical wire, and a hatchet. Is that enough to make one teenage boy excited? Apparently! Let me explain…
Last year our family moved into a little farmhouse in the country, and we often uncover old items. It seems that two elderly bachelor brothers owned it years ago, and almost weekly we find remnants of their lives around the homestead. My son recently noticed an additional wall behind the pantry, grabbed his flashlight, and began in earnest to “see what was back there.”
To date, he’s located the items previously listed, an old egg carton, a frame from a mechanics work light, an invoice for a farm machinery part purchased in 1978, and a four pound rock.
Discovery
He dreams of discovering coins, gold, or cash that the two old brothers might have stashed in an out-of-the-way nook. It’s a delicious thought that keeps him excited as he searches for new treasures in hidden places.
My son’s adventure reminded me of a small portion of Scripture in a letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossians:
“That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:2-3).
These verses reveal an amazing truth about searching the Bible. As we “dig” in the Scriptures to become more connected, we’re guaranteed that discovering heaven’s treasures of assurance, understanding, and knowledge are a natural by-product of a relationship with our God. This beautiful synergy between knowing our Creator and attaining a deeper comprehension of God’s ways through the study of the Word go hand in hand. It’s like looking for treasure!
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By Michael Temple. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Last year our family moved into a little farmhouse in the country, and we often uncover old items. It seems that two elderly bachelor brothers owned it years ago, and almost weekly we find remnants of their lives around the homestead. My son recently noticed an additional wall behind the pantry, grabbed his flashlight, and began in earnest to “see what was back there.”
To date, he’s located the items previously listed, an old egg carton, a frame from a mechanics work light, an invoice for a farm machinery part purchased in 1978, and a four pound rock.
Discovery
He dreams of discovering coins, gold, or cash that the two old brothers might have stashed in an out-of-the-way nook. It’s a delicious thought that keeps him excited as he searches for new treasures in hidden places.
My son’s adventure reminded me of a small portion of Scripture in a letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossians:
“That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:2-3).
These verses reveal an amazing truth about searching the Bible. As we “dig” in the Scriptures to become more connected, we’re guaranteed that discovering heaven’s treasures of assurance, understanding, and knowledge are a natural by-product of a relationship with our God. This beautiful synergy between knowing our Creator and attaining a deeper comprehension of God’s ways through the study of the Word go hand in hand. It’s like looking for treasure!
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______________________________
By Michael Temple. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Tuning Skills
Photo: Studiomill
Our piano is out of tune and it drives me crazy! We had it tuned just a few years ago, but it didn’t hold. On Friday evenings when our family gathers around the piano to sing, we have a few instruments that need to be “tuned” to the “out-of-tune” piano. My daughter plays the violin and my son just started the cello. I play the guitar and my wife plays the piano. When we are all playing, it doesn’t sound so bad. It’s the “tuning” time that is challenging. Certain piano keys send shivers up my spine.
Since I’m a do-it-yourself kind of guy (who is always wanting to save money), I studied a few web pages on tuning pianos and bought a cheap piano tuning kit off the Internet. “This doesn’t look so hard,” I thought. Well, after a couple tries, the kit is sitting in its nice black case next to the piano collecting dust. Tuning a piano is not as easy as it “sounds.” I have a pretty good ear for tuning my guitar, but tuning a piano, even with an electronic tuner, takes a skill that is a few steps ahead of my level. I have grown to have more respect for piano tuners!
Lack of Harmony
Keeping musical instruments in tune is a bit like keeping our hearts in tune with God. The stresses of daily life can push and pull on the strings of our heart until we are out of tune. If we make enough noise, we sometimes drown out the off-tune keys. But in the quietness of the day, when other distractions are pushed away, we may hear the Holy Spirit speaking to our minds showing us the lack of harmony between ourselves and heaven. If we learn to listen very carefully, we will pick up the discord in our lives.
The best time, I have found, to put my heart back into tune is during quiet time each day with God. As I read Scripture, journal my thoughts, and earnestly pray, I hear the quiet tones of divine truth that call me to adjust my thinking. Confessing my sinfulness to the Lord is one way to tune my heart. Praising God is another. Asking for help gives Christ permission to stretch me to be more loving toward others. Like my piano, I need to keep my life tuned to God and it takes more than a little tinkering on my part. I need a Divine Tuner with skills far ahead of what my fumbling fingers can accomplish.
“The Lord God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills. To the Chief Musician. With my stringed instruments” (Habakkuk 3:19).
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By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Since I’m a do-it-yourself kind of guy (who is always wanting to save money), I studied a few web pages on tuning pianos and bought a cheap piano tuning kit off the Internet. “This doesn’t look so hard,” I thought. Well, after a couple tries, the kit is sitting in its nice black case next to the piano collecting dust. Tuning a piano is not as easy as it “sounds.” I have a pretty good ear for tuning my guitar, but tuning a piano, even with an electronic tuner, takes a skill that is a few steps ahead of my level. I have grown to have more respect for piano tuners!
Lack of Harmony
Keeping musical instruments in tune is a bit like keeping our hearts in tune with God. The stresses of daily life can push and pull on the strings of our heart until we are out of tune. If we make enough noise, we sometimes drown out the off-tune keys. But in the quietness of the day, when other distractions are pushed away, we may hear the Holy Spirit speaking to our minds showing us the lack of harmony between ourselves and heaven. If we learn to listen very carefully, we will pick up the discord in our lives.
The best time, I have found, to put my heart back into tune is during quiet time each day with God. As I read Scripture, journal my thoughts, and earnestly pray, I hear the quiet tones of divine truth that call me to adjust my thinking. Confessing my sinfulness to the Lord is one way to tune my heart. Praising God is another. Asking for help gives Christ permission to stretch me to be more loving toward others. Like my piano, I need to keep my life tuned to God and it takes more than a little tinkering on my part. I need a Divine Tuner with skills far ahead of what my fumbling fingers can accomplish.
“The Lord God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills. To the Chief Musician. With my stringed instruments” (Habakkuk 3:19).
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By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Come, Jesus! Today!
Photo: Christopher Potter
Lately, I’ve been riding somewhat of an emotional roller-coaster. I notice I’m not alone, either, as nearly every seat on that ride is packed to capacity! And why wouldn’t it be? As a friend from my teenage years once said so profoundly, “Life’s hard.”
Life’s hard. Simply said, but acutely true. No one gets by without life being hard. For the Christian, the high points are credited to God and the low points are taken to God. In times of severe lows, the Christian is drawn into “hope mode” and dreams of Heaven and of the New Earth. This is a most effective coping mechanism for the believer as it points to a solution for any and every problem that this life creates.
Recently, I found myself once again thinking, Oh, it will be so great when Jesus comes and takes us home with him. I pondered on the pain and loneliness that will vanish for all of those who have chosen Jesus. I gloried in the thought that as a mother I’ll never again worry about my children in any way. Hospitals will be non-existent. Money will be valueless. Abuse will be a foreign word. Come, Lord Jesus, I heard myself say.
High Points
Yes, anyone who is alive in this world can relate to the pain and challenges that it breeds. And anyone who has hope in the coming of Jesus shares in the relief of knowing that one day all things will be made new and every moment will be blissful and contented and glorified by the daily companionship of Jesus…in person! But what about the high points of this life. It’s easy to look to the future of heaven when we’re in a valley, but are we still as homesick for heaven when things are going great here?
I thought about that and I’m thinking about it still. I’m asking God to sensitize me in every situation to long more and more for the fulfillment of the plan of salvation. I want to be just as thrilled about going to heaven on my best day on earth as I am on my worst. I want my most contented, joyful, successful, healthy, and fulfilling day in this life to be the same day that I lift my hands to heaven and shout with clarity, “Come, Lord Jesus! Today! Open the sky, bring on the trumpeted angels, open the graves, lift my feet from this place, and usher me into your very presence. Today."
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him” (I Corinthians 2:9).
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By Gwen Simmons. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Life’s hard. Simply said, but acutely true. No one gets by without life being hard. For the Christian, the high points are credited to God and the low points are taken to God. In times of severe lows, the Christian is drawn into “hope mode” and dreams of Heaven and of the New Earth. This is a most effective coping mechanism for the believer as it points to a solution for any and every problem that this life creates.
Recently, I found myself once again thinking, Oh, it will be so great when Jesus comes and takes us home with him. I pondered on the pain and loneliness that will vanish for all of those who have chosen Jesus. I gloried in the thought that as a mother I’ll never again worry about my children in any way. Hospitals will be non-existent. Money will be valueless. Abuse will be a foreign word. Come, Lord Jesus, I heard myself say.
High Points
Yes, anyone who is alive in this world can relate to the pain and challenges that it breeds. And anyone who has hope in the coming of Jesus shares in the relief of knowing that one day all things will be made new and every moment will be blissful and contented and glorified by the daily companionship of Jesus…in person! But what about the high points of this life. It’s easy to look to the future of heaven when we’re in a valley, but are we still as homesick for heaven when things are going great here?
I thought about that and I’m thinking about it still. I’m asking God to sensitize me in every situation to long more and more for the fulfillment of the plan of salvation. I want to be just as thrilled about going to heaven on my best day on earth as I am on my worst. I want my most contented, joyful, successful, healthy, and fulfilling day in this life to be the same day that I lift my hands to heaven and shout with clarity, “Come, Lord Jesus! Today! Open the sky, bring on the trumpeted angels, open the graves, lift my feet from this place, and usher me into your very presence. Today."
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him” (I Corinthians 2:9).
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By Gwen Simmons. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Let Jesus Lead
Photo: Luann Johnson
Jean Francois Gravelet, a.k.a. Charles Blondin, was somewhat of a legend in the last century. He was a world-famous tightrope walker and acrobat. His feats and antics on the tightrope were known around the world.
On June 30, 1859, Charles Blondin became the first person to walk across Niagara Falls on a tightrope. He repeated the feat on several occasions. Amazingly, people volunteered to accompany him on the rope. He even carried a man across the falls on his shoulders. Another time, he pushed his manager across the falls in a wheelbarrow.
I Must Have Total Control
Mr. Blondin demanded one thing of those he carried on his tightrope. “Don’t resist me,” he said. “I have to be in total control all the way.” Those who volunteered to let Blondin carry them on his tightrope were always safe by following his instructions. If they had resisted Blondin’s efforts to carry them, the results could have been disastrous.
It wouldn’t have helped things to look down. The view would have been terrifying. And becoming terrified wouldn’t have helped, either. The only thing to do was to totally submit to the man doing the carrying.
In the same way, Jesus says to those who want to walk with Him: “Anyone who intends to come with Me has to let Me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat–I am” (Luke 9:23). Jesus has walked the way before you. He knows the way. If you’ll just let Him lead, Jesus will carry you safely over every hurdle, through every problem, every trial and difficulty. If you do not resist, you will find yourself being drawn to Jesus. And when you come to Jesus, He will hold you by a hand that will never let you go.
Won’t you let Jesus have complete control of your life today?
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By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE ®
On June 30, 1859, Charles Blondin became the first person to walk across Niagara Falls on a tightrope. He repeated the feat on several occasions. Amazingly, people volunteered to accompany him on the rope. He even carried a man across the falls on his shoulders. Another time, he pushed his manager across the falls in a wheelbarrow.
I Must Have Total Control
Mr. Blondin demanded one thing of those he carried on his tightrope. “Don’t resist me,” he said. “I have to be in total control all the way.” Those who volunteered to let Blondin carry them on his tightrope were always safe by following his instructions. If they had resisted Blondin’s efforts to carry them, the results could have been disastrous.
It wouldn’t have helped things to look down. The view would have been terrifying. And becoming terrified wouldn’t have helped, either. The only thing to do was to totally submit to the man doing the carrying.
In the same way, Jesus says to those who want to walk with Him: “Anyone who intends to come with Me has to let Me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat–I am” (Luke 9:23). Jesus has walked the way before you. He knows the way. If you’ll just let Him lead, Jesus will carry you safely over every hurdle, through every problem, every trial and difficulty. If you do not resist, you will find yourself being drawn to Jesus. And when you come to Jesus, He will hold you by a hand that will never let you go.
Won’t you let Jesus have complete control of your life today?
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By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE ®
Midnight Visitor
Photo: David Kay
Like many Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), I think the pop music I enjoyed in my youth is classic. I recently browsed the web and listened to a song I really liked 30 years ago. It’s about a woman who died and her horse broke out of its stall and ran away. The man in her life believes that even though she died that she would come back to visit him and they would ride this special horse together.
Have you ever found yourself listening more carefully to the lyrics of some of these old songs when you became an adult? I love the flow and melody of this song, but had never really thought about the message behind it. When people die, can they come back in some spirit form to visit you?
The Bible talks about what happens at death. There are many verses that explain what happens when people die … and what you will read may surprise you. It’s not like many movies, books, or songs tell you. For instance, Ecclesiastes 9:5 says, “For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing…” What does that mean?
The Bible tells us death is like sleep. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13, the Apostle Paul says, “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope.” Jesus also spoke about death as a sleep when referring to Lazarus, a friend of His who died. “After He had said this, He went on to tell them, ‘Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.’ His disciples replied, ‘Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better.’ Jesus had been speaking of his death, but His disciples thought He meant natural sleep. So then He told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead’” (John 11:11-14).
Detestable
God warned people to not be involved with those who supposedly communicate with the dead. “Let no one be found among you who … is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord” (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). That’s pretty strong language. It should stop and make us think carefully before spending our time reading popular books or watching movies like Twilight or Harry Potter.
When people die they go to the grave until the resurrection. Everyone will be raised again someday. Some to everlasting life and others to face the judgment and be destroyed forever (see John 5:28-29). Until that time, the dead rest in their graves. They do not think or plan or work. Their thoughts have perished (see Psalm 146:4).
I like horses and it is sad when someone special dies. But I would think twice about someone who is dead coming to visit me. The Bible says the dead do not know anything. So, who is impersonating dead people who supposedly come back to life? That’s a very good question. Find out for yourself what the Bible says.
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By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Have you ever found yourself listening more carefully to the lyrics of some of these old songs when you became an adult? I love the flow and melody of this song, but had never really thought about the message behind it. When people die, can they come back in some spirit form to visit you?
The Bible talks about what happens at death. There are many verses that explain what happens when people die … and what you will read may surprise you. It’s not like many movies, books, or songs tell you. For instance, Ecclesiastes 9:5 says, “For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing…” What does that mean?
The Bible tells us death is like sleep. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13, the Apostle Paul says, “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope.” Jesus also spoke about death as a sleep when referring to Lazarus, a friend of His who died. “After He had said this, He went on to tell them, ‘Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.’ His disciples replied, ‘Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better.’ Jesus had been speaking of his death, but His disciples thought He meant natural sleep. So then He told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead’” (John 11:11-14).
Detestable
God warned people to not be involved with those who supposedly communicate with the dead. “Let no one be found among you who … is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord” (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). That’s pretty strong language. It should stop and make us think carefully before spending our time reading popular books or watching movies like Twilight or Harry Potter.
When people die they go to the grave until the resurrection. Everyone will be raised again someday. Some to everlasting life and others to face the judgment and be destroyed forever (see John 5:28-29). Until that time, the dead rest in their graves. They do not think or plan or work. Their thoughts have perished (see Psalm 146:4).
I like horses and it is sad when someone special dies. But I would think twice about someone who is dead coming to visit me. The Bible says the dead do not know anything. So, who is impersonating dead people who supposedly come back to life? That’s a very good question. Find out for yourself what the Bible says.
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By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
To All Nations
Photo: Gavin Mills
At the end of long and grueling trips to build churches and schools in Central America, awaited long and grueling plane rides home. And when it became time to board the plane after each trip, intense waves of emotions would wash over me that I could never quite understand. The wheels would lift off the sticky tropical tarmac and I could not for the life of me figure out why I had been in that country. Was it to help the less fortunate? Was it to have an adventure? Was it to make myself feel better about my general spiritual apathy back home? Or was it to help spread the Gospel?
Rising above rainforest canopies and a green that I will never forget, I felt a sense of pride and a sense of shame. What would my story be when I arrived home? That I had gone cliff jumping and snorkeled in the Caribbean? Or that I had helped teach an entire village’s children to sing "Jesus Loves Me"?
Hope to the Hopeless
In Mark 16:15, Jesus compels us to "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.” When Jesus entreats us to spread the good news, I cannot help but think that his words are meant not only to bring hope to the hopeless, but to instill hope in us as well.
While my motivations for traveling to the third world to spread the “good news” may be a bit fuzzy, I am positively certain that the acts outside of the motivations are vehicles of hope. Both in the lives of those who attended the churches and schools that I helped build, and in my sometimes apathetic soul, hope and good news was given a chance to flourish. The retrospect view of my actions reveals not a purity of heart or of thought, but faith that hope can be wrought from any act that the Lord blesses.
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By Garrett Gladden. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Rising above rainforest canopies and a green that I will never forget, I felt a sense of pride and a sense of shame. What would my story be when I arrived home? That I had gone cliff jumping and snorkeled in the Caribbean? Or that I had helped teach an entire village’s children to sing "Jesus Loves Me"?
Hope to the Hopeless
In Mark 16:15, Jesus compels us to "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.” When Jesus entreats us to spread the good news, I cannot help but think that his words are meant not only to bring hope to the hopeless, but to instill hope in us as well.
While my motivations for traveling to the third world to spread the “good news” may be a bit fuzzy, I am positively certain that the acts outside of the motivations are vehicles of hope. Both in the lives of those who attended the churches and schools that I helped build, and in my sometimes apathetic soul, hope and good news was given a chance to flourish. The retrospect view of my actions reveals not a purity of heart or of thought, but faith that hope can be wrought from any act that the Lord blesses.
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By Garrett Gladden. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Beauty of Reality
Photo: Rui Saraiva
I was reading my devotional book this morning, the one I’ve been reading for the past two years. It is by Eugene Peterson, the amazing author, poet and writer who’s also the translator of The Message paraphrase of the Bible. It spoke about the poor and it was simply titled, “The Poor.” Perhaps he did that on purpose to help us realize how simple our calling is. But as Peterson mentions in the short, thought-provoking piece, we humans and Christ-followers, become unaware of the reality in which we live. We try our best to mask the hurt, the pain and the suffering that surround our lives.
My friend returned from a mission trip to Africa a few weeks ago. I sat across from her, as four friends met for dinner to catch up. I couldn’t help but feel a little jealous of her experience. Seeing the tears well up in her eyes made me realize that she had become aware of the inexcusable, yet uncontrollable suffering that exists in this world. She had come to an awareness that the world does not start and end around the life we live within our neighborhood. There is a vast world out there filled with people who are dying, both physically and spiritually.
Africa Experience
I thought to myself, do I have to go through an “Africa experience” to become aware? To start seeing people who are starving and barely breathing? Do I need to go on a mission trip to become aware? Perhaps some of us do. But perhaps it’s simpler than we think…perhaps it’s as simple as starting to view the world through the eyes of our Creator.
The verse that Peterson uses in the devotional comes from Galatians 2:10, and it says, “The only additional thing they asked was that we remember the poor, and I was already eager to do that.”
I love the last part, “and I was already eager to do that.” Wow! That’s what I need to pray for God to give me—eagerness and awareness. Awareness doesn’t come easily. Sometimes we’re so unaware we can't snap out of it. Sometimes it’s too scary to think of living life completely aware of our surroundings. Sometimes we aren’t eager to live the reality of life.
My prayer today is to come out of the coma and start living and seeing. To become aware of not only who I am in Christ, but how Christ living in me changes the way I see the world.
May we be eager to fully throw ourselves into the work of the Master. May that be the reality that we choose to live in.
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By Andrea Torres. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from THE MESSAGE ®.
My friend returned from a mission trip to Africa a few weeks ago. I sat across from her, as four friends met for dinner to catch up. I couldn’t help but feel a little jealous of her experience. Seeing the tears well up in her eyes made me realize that she had become aware of the inexcusable, yet uncontrollable suffering that exists in this world. She had come to an awareness that the world does not start and end around the life we live within our neighborhood. There is a vast world out there filled with people who are dying, both physically and spiritually.
Africa Experience
I thought to myself, do I have to go through an “Africa experience” to become aware? To start seeing people who are starving and barely breathing? Do I need to go on a mission trip to become aware? Perhaps some of us do. But perhaps it’s simpler than we think…perhaps it’s as simple as starting to view the world through the eyes of our Creator.
The verse that Peterson uses in the devotional comes from Galatians 2:10, and it says, “The only additional thing they asked was that we remember the poor, and I was already eager to do that.”
I love the last part, “and I was already eager to do that.” Wow! That’s what I need to pray for God to give me—eagerness and awareness. Awareness doesn’t come easily. Sometimes we’re so unaware we can't snap out of it. Sometimes it’s too scary to think of living life completely aware of our surroundings. Sometimes we aren’t eager to live the reality of life.
My prayer today is to come out of the coma and start living and seeing. To become aware of not only who I am in Christ, but how Christ living in me changes the way I see the world.
May we be eager to fully throw ourselves into the work of the Master. May that be the reality that we choose to live in.
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By Andrea Torres. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from THE MESSAGE ®.
Red Car Envy
Photo: Steve Woods
It was hard to miss. Parked in front of the church was a beautiful cherry-red convertible. The top down and in the driver’s seat, Leslie was reclining, her blond hair flowing over the headrest. She looked happy and peaceful and all I could think about was the convertible I’d left behind in California and how envious I was of her and her cherry ride.
My first convertible had been a gift for my 40th birthday. My husband and kids had gone to the dealership and ordered just the right one and we waited and waited and waited. Production bogged down and it was months before I got it, but it was worth the wait. I drove it until it died 10 years later.
My divorce, a move to Florida and financial woes kept me in less than flashy cars for the next 10 years. When I got a little ahead, I went to a used car lot and purchased another convertible. Unfortunately, I hadn’t done my homework and within a year I’d spent more on it than it was worth and turned it in for an economy car. Two years down the line, I spied another used convertible and it was mine.
Trusty Four-door
My move to St. Louis this winter had me toying with the intelligence of my ride. Number one, it leaked when it rained. In Southern California, that’s not too much of a problem, but St. Louis? Also, if my grandson came along, the only way to get him and his car seat in the back seat, was to put the top down. My ride now is a trustworthy and comfortable four-door.
So back to beautiful Leslie and the car. I said the appropriate compliments. Being new to the church, I didn’t know Leslie very well, but went ahead and questioned her about how long she’d had it.
“It was a gift,” she said. “Both of our cars were having problems and someone just offered us this car. I could never have a car like this otherwise.”
Now I was really jealous and wished for my own benefactor, until she continued.
“It’s more than a blessing as transportation,” she went on to say. “I call it our therapy car. Now that Madison is so sick, she can’t get out to play but she enjoys taking rides with the top down. It gets her out in the fresh air.”
Then I remembered where I’d heard Leslie’s name. We’d been praying for her family since her 10-year-old had been diagnosed with cancer and had been undergoing chemotherapy. I wasn’t jealous anymore. Just so very thankful that there were kind and generous Christians who saw a need and met it. I don’t know whether or not Leslie had prayed for a beautiful red convertible, but God knew just what that family needed.
“I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers” (Isaiah 65:23-25).
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By Dee Litten Reed. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW LIVING TRANSLATION © 1996.
My first convertible had been a gift for my 40th birthday. My husband and kids had gone to the dealership and ordered just the right one and we waited and waited and waited. Production bogged down and it was months before I got it, but it was worth the wait. I drove it until it died 10 years later.
My divorce, a move to Florida and financial woes kept me in less than flashy cars for the next 10 years. When I got a little ahead, I went to a used car lot and purchased another convertible. Unfortunately, I hadn’t done my homework and within a year I’d spent more on it than it was worth and turned it in for an economy car. Two years down the line, I spied another used convertible and it was mine.
Trusty Four-door
My move to St. Louis this winter had me toying with the intelligence of my ride. Number one, it leaked when it rained. In Southern California, that’s not too much of a problem, but St. Louis? Also, if my grandson came along, the only way to get him and his car seat in the back seat, was to put the top down. My ride now is a trustworthy and comfortable four-door.
So back to beautiful Leslie and the car. I said the appropriate compliments. Being new to the church, I didn’t know Leslie very well, but went ahead and questioned her about how long she’d had it.
“It was a gift,” she said. “Both of our cars were having problems and someone just offered us this car. I could never have a car like this otherwise.”
Now I was really jealous and wished for my own benefactor, until she continued.
“It’s more than a blessing as transportation,” she went on to say. “I call it our therapy car. Now that Madison is so sick, she can’t get out to play but she enjoys taking rides with the top down. It gets her out in the fresh air.”
Then I remembered where I’d heard Leslie’s name. We’d been praying for her family since her 10-year-old had been diagnosed with cancer and had been undergoing chemotherapy. I wasn’t jealous anymore. Just so very thankful that there were kind and generous Christians who saw a need and met it. I don’t know whether or not Leslie had prayed for a beautiful red convertible, but God knew just what that family needed.
“I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers” (Isaiah 65:23-25).
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By Dee Litten Reed. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW LIVING TRANSLATION © 1996.
Running the Race
Photo: Philip Lange
A few weeks ago, we had a gorgeous, sunny day, made all the more spectacular by the fact that it interrupted a long, dreary stretch of gray days of this year’s sorely protracted winter. As I dodged patches of slushy snow on the sidewalk, I wondered whether attempting my usual four-mile loop was actually a good idea. I had only done a few runs this winter, all of them while visiting my parents in southern California, and this was my first in my own northern city since last fall.
The air was rather chilly, and I was already feeling tired after only about six minutes. I considered turning around, but thought I should probably stick with it, since I almost always feel better after the second mile. As I continued to run, I became increasingly glad that I hadn’t stopped early. I began to warm up, and by the time I reached the lake, still white with snow and glittering under the cloudless sky, I was positively ecstatic. Traces of the long winter seemed to slip away as I continued to run, giddy and euphoric, as the sun warmed my back and cast my shadow in front of me. By the time I got home, I felt like a new woman.
A few days later, I headed out for another run. It was cloudy and far less inspiring out, but I knew I should go anyway. As luck would have it, the storm started as soon as I got out the door—rain, and then sleet. I kept going, and completed my three-mile loop, but this time by the time I got home, I wasn’t thrilled and renewed, I was just cold, wet, and tired—and wondering how I ever thought I loved running.
Less Than Inspiring
I have trained for and run three marathons. Sometimes I have runs like the first one I mentioned, where everything just seems to fit, and I have an incredible experience. Much more frequently, though, my runs are more like the second one I described; they may not be awful, but they’re certainly less than inspiring.
That’s the way life is. Sometimes we have successes and our runs seem easy; other times, we suffer. Some days I’ll breeze through a longer run, only to feel barely able to complete a much shorter run just a day or two later. By now, I’ve learned that the nature of running—as well as of life—is ups and downs. Daily training runs can be a drag, but race day, and other occasional “highs,” makes it all worthwhile. The things that are important to us are the ones worth working hard for, and worth sticking with.
It’s hanging in there that’s important. The Apostle Paul writes, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). The good race is a completed race. Training for the race comes with ups and downs, just like life does. Being a successful runner doesn’t mean you have to love every minute you’re on the trail, any more than it means coming in first in every race you enter. It means accepting the hard times with the good ones; staying with your training program, even when it’s difficult; and, most of all, maintaining close contact with your Coach. That’s running the good race.
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By C. Myers. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
The air was rather chilly, and I was already feeling tired after only about six minutes. I considered turning around, but thought I should probably stick with it, since I almost always feel better after the second mile. As I continued to run, I became increasingly glad that I hadn’t stopped early. I began to warm up, and by the time I reached the lake, still white with snow and glittering under the cloudless sky, I was positively ecstatic. Traces of the long winter seemed to slip away as I continued to run, giddy and euphoric, as the sun warmed my back and cast my shadow in front of me. By the time I got home, I felt like a new woman.
A few days later, I headed out for another run. It was cloudy and far less inspiring out, but I knew I should go anyway. As luck would have it, the storm started as soon as I got out the door—rain, and then sleet. I kept going, and completed my three-mile loop, but this time by the time I got home, I wasn’t thrilled and renewed, I was just cold, wet, and tired—and wondering how I ever thought I loved running.
Less Than Inspiring
I have trained for and run three marathons. Sometimes I have runs like the first one I mentioned, where everything just seems to fit, and I have an incredible experience. Much more frequently, though, my runs are more like the second one I described; they may not be awful, but they’re certainly less than inspiring.
That’s the way life is. Sometimes we have successes and our runs seem easy; other times, we suffer. Some days I’ll breeze through a longer run, only to feel barely able to complete a much shorter run just a day or two later. By now, I’ve learned that the nature of running—as well as of life—is ups and downs. Daily training runs can be a drag, but race day, and other occasional “highs,” makes it all worthwhile. The things that are important to us are the ones worth working hard for, and worth sticking with.
It’s hanging in there that’s important. The Apostle Paul writes, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). The good race is a completed race. Training for the race comes with ups and downs, just like life does. Being a successful runner doesn’t mean you have to love every minute you’re on the trail, any more than it means coming in first in every race you enter. It means accepting the hard times with the good ones; staying with your training program, even when it’s difficult; and, most of all, maintaining close contact with your Coach. That’s running the good race.
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By C. Myers. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Centering Prayer
Photo: Gino Santa Maria
During the height of Communism in the Soviet Union, party leaders kept a "red corner" in which they placed a portrait of Lenin where Christians used to keep their icons. Caught up in this fervor, the Soviet newspaper Pravda ran this advice to readers in the 1950s.
"If you meet with difficulties in your work, or suddenly doubt your abilities, think of him—of Stalin—and you will find the confidence you need. If you feel tired in an hour when you should not, think of him—of Stalin—and your work will go well. If you are seeking a correct decision, think of him—of Stalin—and you will find that decision."
Even Atheists "Pray"
Doesn't that sound eerily like the way many people approach prayer? Simply substitute the word "God" for "Stalin" and you get a concept many describe as "prayer"—carving out an intentional haven of rest, concentration and hope in someone greater than yourself to help experience a centering in the midst of life's challenges. Apparently, in those Soviet days at least, even atheists found ways to "pray."
What does this suggest? Perhaps the reality is that there is an innate human need to connect with a "higher power" in order to effectively experience life—to engage in what is called "prayer." One author observed that the Latin root for "prayer" is precarius—a linguistic cousin to our English precarious—which might explain why we tend to engage in a "prayer-type" activity during emergencies, crises, or when things aren't going as well as usual. We have this need to find our center, that place where all is well and we can face life with security and confidence—and often "prayer" is a way to do that, to find that place, that connection to the higher power some call God.
So how would you describe your "prayer life"? Do you pray—why or why not? What motivates you most to pray? How do you pray in ways that center your soul, heart, mind and body? Do you have a regular practice of prayer? If you don't, would it be helpful to you?
Jesus introduced a radical paradigm for prayer when he described to his disciples how he prayed. The prayer he taught them (the one we often call “The Lord’s Prayer”) begins with the words “our Father …” (Luke 11:2). Jesus wanted his followers to see God as a caring and compassionate father in whom they could have complete confidence and trust. “Our Father …” How would praying that way enhance your spiritual life and your prayer life? Why not try centering yourself in that picture of God and allow yourself to sink into the depths of security. As Jesus described: “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:11). Why not try centering your heart in that paradigm when you pray and see what happens.
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By Greg Nelson. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ® and the New Living Translation © 1996.
"If you meet with difficulties in your work, or suddenly doubt your abilities, think of him—of Stalin—and you will find the confidence you need. If you feel tired in an hour when you should not, think of him—of Stalin—and your work will go well. If you are seeking a correct decision, think of him—of Stalin—and you will find that decision."
Even Atheists "Pray"
Doesn't that sound eerily like the way many people approach prayer? Simply substitute the word "God" for "Stalin" and you get a concept many describe as "prayer"—carving out an intentional haven of rest, concentration and hope in someone greater than yourself to help experience a centering in the midst of life's challenges. Apparently, in those Soviet days at least, even atheists found ways to "pray."
What does this suggest? Perhaps the reality is that there is an innate human need to connect with a "higher power" in order to effectively experience life—to engage in what is called "prayer." One author observed that the Latin root for "prayer" is precarius—a linguistic cousin to our English precarious—which might explain why we tend to engage in a "prayer-type" activity during emergencies, crises, or when things aren't going as well as usual. We have this need to find our center, that place where all is well and we can face life with security and confidence—and often "prayer" is a way to do that, to find that place, that connection to the higher power some call God.
So how would you describe your "prayer life"? Do you pray—why or why not? What motivates you most to pray? How do you pray in ways that center your soul, heart, mind and body? Do you have a regular practice of prayer? If you don't, would it be helpful to you?
Jesus introduced a radical paradigm for prayer when he described to his disciples how he prayed. The prayer he taught them (the one we often call “The Lord’s Prayer”) begins with the words “our Father …” (Luke 11:2). Jesus wanted his followers to see God as a caring and compassionate father in whom they could have complete confidence and trust. “Our Father …” How would praying that way enhance your spiritual life and your prayer life? Why not try centering yourself in that picture of God and allow yourself to sink into the depths of security. As Jesus described: “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:11). Why not try centering your heart in that paradigm when you pray and see what happens.
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By Greg Nelson. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ® and the New Living Translation © 1996.
Integrity
Photo: Dreamstime
He confidently made the oath and the waiting crowd was amazed by the unexpected outcome! A Chinese man named Xu, who swore he didn’t owe money that he had borrowed from a neighbor, was hit by lightning 60 seconds later. Southeast Express reports that Xu made the oath in front of a crowd of neighbors in the city of Fuqing. He vowed that he had never borrowed money from Mr. Huang, who claimed Xu had borrowed 500 yuan (about $70 U.S.) three years earlier.
"He borrowed 500 yuan three years ago from me for a friend's marriage gift, but he has denied it ever since then," said Huang, who went to Xu's home to demand payment.
"I told him that if he dared to swear to God that he didn't owe me the money, then I would waive his debt," said Huang.1 Xu was taken to the hospital after being struck by lightning immediately after swearing that he never borrowed the money. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Mere Coincidence?
Is this incredible occurence a mere coincidence, or divine retribution from an angry God toward a lying cheat? Mr. Huang definitely believes the latter, and no one seems to be able to convince him otherwise.
It’s difficult for any of us to conclusively comment on such a strange spectacle of nature. Most of us don’t know Xu (or Mr. Huang for that matter). I wouldn’t attempt to speculate on Xu’s guiltiness, and it probably wouldn’t matter much if I did. I can’t possibly know the validity of Mr. Huang’s claim that Xu owed money, but the story did make me stop and think about a verse of scripture that illuminates honest interaction.
“Don’t say anything you don’t mean” (Matthew 5:33).
When we express something to someone else, the Bible exhorts us to do that honestly and with integrity. If we claim to be Christians and yet choose not to keep an upstanding profile for the rest of the world to see, our actions speak louder than our words ever can. The fear of divine retribution shouldn’t be the motivation for our unshakable integrity. It ought to come by us naturally!
1 Annanova News Story
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By Michael Temple. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE / REMIX ®.
"He borrowed 500 yuan three years ago from me for a friend's marriage gift, but he has denied it ever since then," said Huang, who went to Xu's home to demand payment.
"I told him that if he dared to swear to God that he didn't owe me the money, then I would waive his debt," said Huang.1 Xu was taken to the hospital after being struck by lightning immediately after swearing that he never borrowed the money. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Mere Coincidence?
Is this incredible occurence a mere coincidence, or divine retribution from an angry God toward a lying cheat? Mr. Huang definitely believes the latter, and no one seems to be able to convince him otherwise.
It’s difficult for any of us to conclusively comment on such a strange spectacle of nature. Most of us don’t know Xu (or Mr. Huang for that matter). I wouldn’t attempt to speculate on Xu’s guiltiness, and it probably wouldn’t matter much if I did. I can’t possibly know the validity of Mr. Huang’s claim that Xu owed money, but the story did make me stop and think about a verse of scripture that illuminates honest interaction.
“Don’t say anything you don’t mean” (Matthew 5:33).
When we express something to someone else, the Bible exhorts us to do that honestly and with integrity. If we claim to be Christians and yet choose not to keep an upstanding profile for the rest of the world to see, our actions speak louder than our words ever can. The fear of divine retribution shouldn’t be the motivation for our unshakable integrity. It ought to come by us naturally!
1 Annanova News Story
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By Michael Temple. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE / REMIX ®.
Celebrating Sabbath
Photo: Dreamstime
As I read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, I discover that God's Sabbath has been and always will be celebrated. As a gift to man, the Sabbath was given at Creation. It was observed through Old and New Testament times, and is mentioned as a day that will be celebrated even in the New Earth. Why? Celebrating Sabbath honors God as Creator and Redeemer is certainly worth holding on to throughout the ages.
It is also a joy to celebrate Sabbath throughout the phases of our earthly lives. I think of the great family traditions in my own childhood that made Sabbath special. There was the “Sabbath Box” that my mom got out only on Sabbath, which contained various crafts, books, and tapes. And I have to laugh when I think about the special treat of frozen dinners that we would have on Sabbath sometimes. Now my mom is an excellent cook, but for some reason, we thought TV dinners were some great luxury. So when the time-bake oven came into the picture, we could come home from church and smell the aroma of the TV dinners all cooked and ready to be eaten.
When I got older, I enjoyed special Bible knowledge games that my family played together on Sabbath. Music was also a great part of the special day.
Family Fun
When Mark and I married and had our own children, we passed on our love for the Sabbath to them and added some of our own family fun. For example, our kids had matching Minnie and Mickey Mouse sleeping bags. Since they didn't do a lot of camping at that age, they brought them into our room and camped each Friday night beside our bed.
Now that the children have grown up, we are in another phase of life with new traditions. But one thing that time does not change is our love and celebration of Sabbath. There are no kids camping in our room, but that same special presence of God that comes with the arrival of this time each week never leaves. I now enjoy sitting in a comfortable chair reading the Bible or an inspirational magazine or book. Or maybe taking a relaxing ride on the back of Mark's motorcycle and enjoying a scenic destination. A peaceful walk helps us forget for a few hours the cares of the past week and the ones that will, no doubt, be awaiting us in the coming week.
I imagine when we grow older, we will find even more ways to enjoy the Sabbath blessing. Perhaps we'll hold grandchildren on our laps and read them stories about Jesus and teach them songs of praise to God, their Creator. Perhaps age will cause us to nod off now and then during church services. Whatever comes with the years, though, will bring with it a continued love for this weekly celebration that was handed down first from God, then from our parents, followed by our sharing it with our own children.
As the hymn rings, "welcome, welcome, ever welcome, blessed Sabbath day", so ring our hearts with gladness for this special time of fellowship with our Creator and each other.
"The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27).
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By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
It is also a joy to celebrate Sabbath throughout the phases of our earthly lives. I think of the great family traditions in my own childhood that made Sabbath special. There was the “Sabbath Box” that my mom got out only on Sabbath, which contained various crafts, books, and tapes. And I have to laugh when I think about the special treat of frozen dinners that we would have on Sabbath sometimes. Now my mom is an excellent cook, but for some reason, we thought TV dinners were some great luxury. So when the time-bake oven came into the picture, we could come home from church and smell the aroma of the TV dinners all cooked and ready to be eaten.
When I got older, I enjoyed special Bible knowledge games that my family played together on Sabbath. Music was also a great part of the special day.
Family Fun
When Mark and I married and had our own children, we passed on our love for the Sabbath to them and added some of our own family fun. For example, our kids had matching Minnie and Mickey Mouse sleeping bags. Since they didn't do a lot of camping at that age, they brought them into our room and camped each Friday night beside our bed.
Now that the children have grown up, we are in another phase of life with new traditions. But one thing that time does not change is our love and celebration of Sabbath. There are no kids camping in our room, but that same special presence of God that comes with the arrival of this time each week never leaves. I now enjoy sitting in a comfortable chair reading the Bible or an inspirational magazine or book. Or maybe taking a relaxing ride on the back of Mark's motorcycle and enjoying a scenic destination. A peaceful walk helps us forget for a few hours the cares of the past week and the ones that will, no doubt, be awaiting us in the coming week.
I imagine when we grow older, we will find even more ways to enjoy the Sabbath blessing. Perhaps we'll hold grandchildren on our laps and read them stories about Jesus and teach them songs of praise to God, their Creator. Perhaps age will cause us to nod off now and then during church services. Whatever comes with the years, though, will bring with it a continued love for this weekly celebration that was handed down first from God, then from our parents, followed by our sharing it with our own children.
As the hymn rings, "welcome, welcome, ever welcome, blessed Sabbath day", so ring our hearts with gladness for this special time of fellowship with our Creator and each other.
"The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27).
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By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
The Power of His Word
Photo: Bojan Dzodan
As I talked with a group of friends, the topic of the economy and financial difficulties came up. In a matter of minutes we were all complaining, blaming the hard times on numerous things. The conversation turned sour and hopeless and, in a way, I felt defeated, down and low with many questions about the uncertain future, things I couldn’t control.
Then, the Lord put His words and thoughts in my mind. I told myself (and later shared with them): “wait a minute, let’s go back to the beginning”. My mind went back to the very beginning, actually, to the books of Genesis and John: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). The Bible says that all things, all tangible artifacts, were made by the intangible, invincible, incorruptible Word of God.
The Word was so powerful that from absolutely nothing He said let there be something and atoms and molecules formed matter and it began to come together at the instruction of their Creator. All of a sudden trees, earth, sun, rocks, moon and stars responded to the voice of the Word—nothing but the Word, not a hammer, not a nail, not a knife, not a saw. He just said the Word and it became what He said.
Waves Laid Down
His word is so powerful that the disciples woke Jesus up one night on a boat when the wind and the waves were tossing the boat back and forth. Jesus just said: “peace, be still” (Mark 4:39). The wind heard the voice of who had created it and lay down and so did the waves.
When God wants to change something He speaks to it. That’s why when they rolled the stone away from Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus didn’t have to go in the tomb and give him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. He didn’t have to go into the tomb, He just said His Word: “Lazarus, come forth” (John 11:43) and Lazarus came out! He called him by name. Had He just said: “come forth” it would it provoke the resurrection of every dead man in the world. That’s how powerful His word was. For King David, the Word was a lamp to his feet and a light to his path (Psalms 119:105). Paul recognized that the sword of the Spirit was the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17).
When the Spirit is ready to fight and protect, He does it through the Word of God. And for Jesus Himself the Word was more than bread, in fact, He said that in order to have life we have to have the Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.
In these tough times we are living in right now, I invite you to once again trust in the Word. He still speaks now as He did in the past. The Word that He spoke thousands of years ago is still holding the sun in place, and as long as the sun has not gone down I don’t have to go down either, for the same thing that holds the sun up, is holding me up.
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By Irving Santiago. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982 and from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Then, the Lord put His words and thoughts in my mind. I told myself (and later shared with them): “wait a minute, let’s go back to the beginning”. My mind went back to the very beginning, actually, to the books of Genesis and John: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). The Bible says that all things, all tangible artifacts, were made by the intangible, invincible, incorruptible Word of God.
The Word was so powerful that from absolutely nothing He said let there be something and atoms and molecules formed matter and it began to come together at the instruction of their Creator. All of a sudden trees, earth, sun, rocks, moon and stars responded to the voice of the Word—nothing but the Word, not a hammer, not a nail, not a knife, not a saw. He just said the Word and it became what He said.
Waves Laid Down
His word is so powerful that the disciples woke Jesus up one night on a boat when the wind and the waves were tossing the boat back and forth. Jesus just said: “peace, be still” (Mark 4:39). The wind heard the voice of who had created it and lay down and so did the waves.
When God wants to change something He speaks to it. That’s why when they rolled the stone away from Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus didn’t have to go in the tomb and give him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. He didn’t have to go into the tomb, He just said His Word: “Lazarus, come forth” (John 11:43) and Lazarus came out! He called him by name. Had He just said: “come forth” it would it provoke the resurrection of every dead man in the world. That’s how powerful His word was. For King David, the Word was a lamp to his feet and a light to his path (Psalms 119:105). Paul recognized that the sword of the Spirit was the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17).
When the Spirit is ready to fight and protect, He does it through the Word of God. And for Jesus Himself the Word was more than bread, in fact, He said that in order to have life we have to have the Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.
In these tough times we are living in right now, I invite you to once again trust in the Word. He still speaks now as He did in the past. The Word that He spoke thousands of years ago is still holding the sun in place, and as long as the sun has not gone down I don’t have to go down either, for the same thing that holds the sun up, is holding me up.
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By Irving Santiago. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982 and from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Be Still
Photo: Margreet De Groot
In high school I had a compulsion to constantly be with my friends. I couldn't stand to be alone. Maybe this began because I felt lonely at home due to the fact that my dad was often gone on business trips. Or it may have been because I became a Christian towards the end of my eighth grade year and I longed for my family to join me in church each week. (They were not and still are not Christians). In my opinion, it was most likely both.
My walk with God was similar, always full of busy-ness and activity. I didn't realize that in my attempts to make sure I was not alone, I had managed to cancel out an important Christian discipline, being still. I had very little trouble filling up my life with activities that involved serving God. These activities were group related, such as worship teams and study groups, but I struggled a lot to incorporate quiet times such as reading the Bible or just being still and praying.
Happier Person
My need for activity and to be surrounded by people did not change until I got married. My husband is an introvert. Not an extreme introvert, but enough to remind me to enjoy being still. I have learned how important it is to stop, reflect, and to not be afraid to spend time sitting outside drinking a cup of tea and just being still. I find I am a much happier person if I balance the hurried life with time for rest.
After all those years of wanting to be constantly surrounded by other people, I have found myself enjoying many peaceful times alone. In my attempts to fill up every hour of the day with social events, and religious activities, I almost forgot that God wants me to "be still and know that I am God" (Psalms 46:10). And really, I am never alone, because God is always with me.
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By Marion Ruybalid. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
My walk with God was similar, always full of busy-ness and activity. I didn't realize that in my attempts to make sure I was not alone, I had managed to cancel out an important Christian discipline, being still. I had very little trouble filling up my life with activities that involved serving God. These activities were group related, such as worship teams and study groups, but I struggled a lot to incorporate quiet times such as reading the Bible or just being still and praying.
Happier Person
My need for activity and to be surrounded by people did not change until I got married. My husband is an introvert. Not an extreme introvert, but enough to remind me to enjoy being still. I have learned how important it is to stop, reflect, and to not be afraid to spend time sitting outside drinking a cup of tea and just being still. I find I am a much happier person if I balance the hurried life with time for rest.
After all those years of wanting to be constantly surrounded by other people, I have found myself enjoying many peaceful times alone. In my attempts to fill up every hour of the day with social events, and religious activities, I almost forgot that God wants me to "be still and know that I am God" (Psalms 46:10). And really, I am never alone, because God is always with me.
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By Marion Ruybalid. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
The Rock
Photo: Brian Ducharme
I’ve been thinking about life experiences. Some are mountaintop experiences where I’ve stood in joy and strength on the solid rock of the summit. Others are very low experiences where I’ve sunk to rock bottom.
But here’s a bit of truth that is truly a beautiful thing: whether we are standing high on the rocks of the mountain or low on rock bottom, the Rock is still there. Do you get it? The Rock. Jesus. He’s there for our joys and he’s there for our sorrows. He’s a solid friend who is just as present in sorrow as he is in celebration.
Rock Bottom
I don’t know about you, but I know what it is to hit rock bottom. There’s something very reassuring about knowing that you’ve hit rock bottom and re-surfaced. Some people don’t re-surface though, and I believe that’s because their feet have never actually touched the Rock at the bottom. We can be sinking and sinking, but if our feet eventually make contact with the Rock at the bottom, we can then use that Rock as a springboard to push our way back up.
The Bible says that Jesus is the Rock of our Salvation. He’s strong and solid and dependable. If today is a mountaintop day, plant your feet on the Rock and rejoice! If today is a rock bottom day, keep praying and seeking the Lord and your feet will settle on the Rock that will spring you back to the surface.
“Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation” (Psalm 95:1).
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By Gwen Simmons. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
But here’s a bit of truth that is truly a beautiful thing: whether we are standing high on the rocks of the mountain or low on rock bottom, the Rock is still there. Do you get it? The Rock. Jesus. He’s there for our joys and he’s there for our sorrows. He’s a solid friend who is just as present in sorrow as he is in celebration.
Rock Bottom
I don’t know about you, but I know what it is to hit rock bottom. There’s something very reassuring about knowing that you’ve hit rock bottom and re-surfaced. Some people don’t re-surface though, and I believe that’s because their feet have never actually touched the Rock at the bottom. We can be sinking and sinking, but if our feet eventually make contact with the Rock at the bottom, we can then use that Rock as a springboard to push our way back up.
The Bible says that Jesus is the Rock of our Salvation. He’s strong and solid and dependable. If today is a mountaintop day, plant your feet on the Rock and rejoice! If today is a rock bottom day, keep praying and seeking the Lord and your feet will settle on the Rock that will spring you back to the surface.
“Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation” (Psalm 95:1).
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By Gwen Simmons. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
One Kind Act
Photo: Sophie
When it comes to helping others, I can't say that I shine. I love doing things for others such as baking fun goodies or buying simple gifts to say “Thanks for your friendship,” or “I am thinking of you.” I usually only do these acts of kindness for the people I know, and especially the people I am closest to.
After returning from a Christmas holiday with my parents, we had dinner at my in-laws house and asked how their Christmas had been. They told us how wonderful and peaceful it had been and how they had spent the day driving around town handing out gift certificates to the homeless. I was in awe! What a humble way to spend Christmas day, while most, including myself, were warm and cozy, eating good food and gift exchanging. I was very impressed and it took the phrase “random acts of kindness” to a whole different level.
Would I Keep Walking?
God talks about kindness a lot in the Bible. Most of us can recall the story of the Good Samaritan. Others passed by before one stopped to help a man in great need. I often wonder, would I be the one who looked and kept walking or would I stop at any cost to help? I believe God has called us to be His helpers. In a time of such great need in this world, we are called to be the “disciples” of Christ, to carry out His acts of kindness.
In the Bible it says, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me” (Matthew 25:35). There are so many different ways to help those in need. We can donate clothing, participate in food drives or even help prepare meals for the homeless. We can also do prison ministries. The list goes on.
God calls us to do acts of kindness for those around us, whether we know them or not. “The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me'” (Matthew 25:40).
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By Erika Gladden. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
After returning from a Christmas holiday with my parents, we had dinner at my in-laws house and asked how their Christmas had been. They told us how wonderful and peaceful it had been and how they had spent the day driving around town handing out gift certificates to the homeless. I was in awe! What a humble way to spend Christmas day, while most, including myself, were warm and cozy, eating good food and gift exchanging. I was very impressed and it took the phrase “random acts of kindness” to a whole different level.
Would I Keep Walking?
God talks about kindness a lot in the Bible. Most of us can recall the story of the Good Samaritan. Others passed by before one stopped to help a man in great need. I often wonder, would I be the one who looked and kept walking or would I stop at any cost to help? I believe God has called us to be His helpers. In a time of such great need in this world, we are called to be the “disciples” of Christ, to carry out His acts of kindness.
In the Bible it says, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me” (Matthew 25:35). There are so many different ways to help those in need. We can donate clothing, participate in food drives or even help prepare meals for the homeless. We can also do prison ministries. The list goes on.
God calls us to do acts of kindness for those around us, whether we know them or not. “The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me'” (Matthew 25:40).
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By Erika Gladden. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Rest in Peace
Photo: Ray Forester
During the 1980’s, ‘scientists’ reportedly looking for oil in Siberia, drilled nine miles down where they broke through the earth’s crust into a spot where the temperature was 2000 degrees F. As the story goes, they lowered a microphone into the hole where they heard human voices wailing in hell!
Some however, became skeptical of this dubious tale. Where, they reasoned, could ‘scientists’ find an extension cord nine mile long? And how, could a microphone withstand that kind of heat?
Within due time, this ‘news article’ was exposed as a hoax.
Between 1920 and 1944, a well known evangelist based her ministry in Southern California. Aimee Semple McPherson preached to tens of thousands of people per week at Angelus Temple in the Echo Park area of L.A. In 1924, ‘Sister Aimee,’ as she was sometimes known, pioneered evangelistic radio broadcasting from the same location.
Telephone in Her Casket!
Her ministry and life however, were not without controversy, including her untimely death at the age of 54 as a result of a sedative overdose. Subsequently, Evangelist Aimee was buried with a connected live telephone in her casket!
As one writer succinctly put it, “In over 60 years, no one has received a call from her yet, not even collect!”
The belief that the dearly departed are somehow able to communicate with those who still have the breath of life, has stubbornly held its ground for millennium. But is it really true? Can the deceased contact the living by postcard, wireless, cell phone, carrier pigeon, express mail, spirit rapping, E.S.P., or any other medium (pun intended)?
The biblical answer is no! On the contrary, the scriptures portray death as a sleep in more than 50 passages. In the Psalms, David alludes to the fact that a person who is dead can neither remember nor praise (6:5). In the 115th Psalm, the writer reiterates that the dead don’t praise the Lord because their world is one of silence. And in the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon reveals that “the dead know nothing…” (9:5) In other words, they are not aware of what is going on around them.
Unlike the living, those who have passed to their rest are sleeping peacefully and undisturbed in their graves, or urns (whatever the case may be) until Jesus returns with heaven's rewards.
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By Kathy A Lewis. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Some however, became skeptical of this dubious tale. Where, they reasoned, could ‘scientists’ find an extension cord nine mile long? And how, could a microphone withstand that kind of heat?
Within due time, this ‘news article’ was exposed as a hoax.
Between 1920 and 1944, a well known evangelist based her ministry in Southern California. Aimee Semple McPherson preached to tens of thousands of people per week at Angelus Temple in the Echo Park area of L.A. In 1924, ‘Sister Aimee,’ as she was sometimes known, pioneered evangelistic radio broadcasting from the same location.
Telephone in Her Casket!
Her ministry and life however, were not without controversy, including her untimely death at the age of 54 as a result of a sedative overdose. Subsequently, Evangelist Aimee was buried with a connected live telephone in her casket!
As one writer succinctly put it, “In over 60 years, no one has received a call from her yet, not even collect!”
The belief that the dearly departed are somehow able to communicate with those who still have the breath of life, has stubbornly held its ground for millennium. But is it really true? Can the deceased contact the living by postcard, wireless, cell phone, carrier pigeon, express mail, spirit rapping, E.S.P., or any other medium (pun intended)?
The biblical answer is no! On the contrary, the scriptures portray death as a sleep in more than 50 passages. In the Psalms, David alludes to the fact that a person who is dead can neither remember nor praise (6:5). In the 115th Psalm, the writer reiterates that the dead don’t praise the Lord because their world is one of silence. And in the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon reveals that “the dead know nothing…” (9:5) In other words, they are not aware of what is going on around them.
Unlike the living, those who have passed to their rest are sleeping peacefully and undisturbed in their graves, or urns (whatever the case may be) until Jesus returns with heaven's rewards.
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By Kathy A Lewis. Copyright © 2012 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture take from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.