Some Thoughts On Christian Living

The Christian life can be thought of as a race, but it is not a competition. As Christians, each of us is inching toward our goal of eternal life. Though there are challenges along the way, we remain focused on the supernal blessings in Christ.

The fact there is no competition enhances the Christian race. We are strengthened by the fellowship of our fellow “team members.” From a heart of love, we willingly “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). Encouragement that is sincerely given provides a “cushion” from the bumps and bruises of daily life. Together, in Christ, we are in joyful pursuit of eternal life.

“And if children, then heirs – heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together” (Romans 8:17).

He Always Makes Things Better

A hit song from the early 70’s lamented, “Rainy days and Mondays always get me down.” Some people approach Mondays with a negative attitude. It is the beginning of the work week. Also, we find it easy to complain about a rainy day, especially when we have something important to us planned.

Consider the perspective of the various psalmists toward life. Writing by inspiration, each of them dealt with stressful, disappointing, and difficult situations. But what made the difference was their attitude toward the Lord. Consider the calm assurance emphasized in the following statement, “Truly my soul silently waits for God; from Him comes my salvation, He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved” (Psalm 62:1 & 2).

This is a certainly a beautiful picture of triumphant trusting in the Lord. Did he understand everything that was happening around him? No, but his trust in the Lord remained solid. In the opening words of this psalm, we find set forth the psalmist’s resolve to remain true to the Lord.

The strength of the psalmist’s intention is emphasized, as he declares, “I shall not be greatly moved.” Please ponder this very definite language. Indeed, you and I will be strengthened as we view the struggles and stresses of life with this attitude. Instead of imagining the worst concerning the difficulties that can wreck havoc in our lives, let us always manifest the quiet courage seen in the psalmists. This means approaching each day with the resolve, “I shall not be greatly moved?”

Great victories are in store for us in the Lord, as our trust remains solidly grounded in Him. The Lord will never let us down. The counsel of His Word will never mislead us. Most assuredly, He always makes all things better.

Brothers And Sisters

A good family is never perfect. Sometimes there will be failings and disappointments. Disagreements will arise over matters that with the passing of time will seem insignificant. But it is also true that some of life’s happiest memories occur within the family.

One of the clearest descriptions of the church in the New Testament is of a family. The church is the family of God. The following statement highlights this description, “For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named” (Ephesians 4:14 & 15). In keeping with the description of the church being a family, individual Christians are referred to as “children of God” (I John 3:1, 10). Another meaningful passage along this line is found in Romans 8:16 & 17, “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs – heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.”

The description of the church as a family emphasizes the close relationship that is to exist among individual members of the church. For us to be as the Lord would have us to be in Him, love must always reign supreme. Indeed, love is the glue that enables us to stand together in Christ. As Christians are urged, “Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart” (I Peter 1:22). Another strong exhortation speaks to this same point, “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought also ought to love one another” (I John 4:11).

There are different personalities and temperaments even among Christians. But our relationship with Christ, grounded in the Truth of God’s Word, rises above these things. We are striving together for heaven. Remembering we are brothers and sisters in Christ, may God help us as we, “Let brotherly love continue” (Hebrews 13:1).

Do We Really Care?

The tears of Jeremiah were real. As God’s faithful servant, he had poured out his heart to the people of Judah for more than forty years. But tragically, they had allowed their hearts to be calloused. Now Jerusalem lies barren. The glory of what was had been reduced to ruin and rubble. How could this have happened? One indication of the mindset that had lead to this sad chapter of history is seen in the following question that Jeremiah brought before God’s people, “Is it nothing to you, all you who pass by? Behold and see if there is any sorrow like my sorrow, which has been brought on me, which the Lord had inflicted in the day of His fierce anger” (Lamentations 1:12).

The difference between success and failure among any group of people often lies in the degree of real concern they possess. This was truly at the foundation of Judah’s failure. Now they were reaping the sad results. An indication of how low they had fallen is revealed in the very first verse of the book of Lamentations, “How lonely sits the city that was full of people! How like a widow is she, who was great among the nations! The princes among the provinces has become a slave” (Lamentations 1:1). Why had these people allowed this downward spiral?

A true indication of any group of people is how they respond to

challenges. Of course, it is possible to overreact. But the opposite also represents a danger. We can seek to do the greatest good. Our attitude can be to do all we can to assist and strengthen.

The work of the Lord in every generation must be given maximum efforts. Today’s shirking of duty possesses the danger of abandonment tomorrow. Patterns allowed to develop easily become entrenched.

But as God’s people have a mind to work (Nehemiah 4:6), great things will result. The Lord will bless our efforts. Instead of allowing ourselves to be held captive by discouragement, let’s always shine the spotlight on the possibilities. Genuine care will keep us focused on the task before us. It will thus give us a forward focus.

A revival of a true sense of caring will help us attain even greater heights of success in the Lord’s service. Time is of the essence, therefore we must not delay (Ephesians 5:15). As you seek to build an even greater sense of caring for the Lord’s work, please meditate on the following inspired exhortation, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord’ (I Corinthians 15:58).

Do You Want To Go To Heaven?

The suitcases are packed and loaded in the car. You close the car door, and now you turn the ignition key. Now you are on the road. Your vacation has begun. A vacation is always a good thing. Daily life has a certain measure of stress and struggles. A vacation is a respite. For most people, the days leading up to a vacation are full of anticipation. We are excited, and most certainly we are anxious to begin our vacation.

But there is something more exciting than a vacation. God, in His mercy and great love, has made all the necessary provisions for us to live with Him for eternity in Heaven. Jesus has promised, “In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). Some of the most beautiful language in the Bible is used in Revelation 21 and 22 to describe the beauties and glories of heaven.

Bible believers accept the reality of heaven. We know that life on this earth is brief and fragile (James 4:14). We recognize that our time on this earth is temporary (Hebrews 9:27). It should then naturally follow that heaven is the longing in our hearts.

Do you want to go to heaven? If so, how are you seeking to fulfill this longing and desire? Please carefully consider the following questions:

1. Am I putting God first in my life? Jesus said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

2. Do I strive to keep my thoughts on things on heavenly things? Colossians 3:2 directs us, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”

3. Is my striving to be close to the Lord? James 4:8 assures us, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”

4. Am I obedient to the Lord? The words of Revelation 22:14 present a wonderful promise: “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.”

Heaven is not a land of make believe. It will be the place of no more partings or tearful farewells. It will be a perfect place. Indeed, the longer we live on this earth, the greater should be our desire for the celestial city of God.

New Testament Christianity Is Unique

It is important that we keep before us the fundamental principles of New Testament Christianity. Brother Guy N. Woods often emphasized that we are always just one generation away from an apostasy. By that he did not mean that the cause of the Lord was weak. But the point was that each generation must be grounded in the principles that make New Testament Christianity unique (Colossians 1:23)

Listed below are some of the unique principles of New Testament Christianity:

· The Lord’s church is not a denomination. The accepted thought in today’s religious world is that each denomination is a part of the church. Another way this is often expressed is that each denomination is just another road to heaven. But Jesus came to establish one church. He declared, “On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). This church was established on the day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2 (vs. 41,47).

· The worship of the Lord’s church is strictly based on what is revealed in the New Testament. For example, the use of instrumental music in worship is without divine authority. We are only authorized to sing (Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16). When we go beyond what the Scriptures teach, we sin (Colossians 3:17, I John 3:4, II John 9).

· Baptism is a part of the Lord’s plan of salvation. Many religious groups teach that a person is saved at the point of faith. But every person you read about in the book of Acts who was saved was baptized for the remission of their sins. While baptism is not the entirety of the Lord’s plan of salvation, it is one of the steps. The apostle Peter declared, “Baptism doth also now save us” (I Peter 3:21). Also, Jesus taught, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:15).

High Gasoline Prices And Lost Souls

I was about eight years old when I became aware of the cost of gasoline. As I recall, the price was then approximately thirty-two cents per gallon. In a few years the cost of gasoline began to incrementally increase. I can still recall hearing adults talking about the outrageous cost of gasoline at seventy-five cents a gallon.

Currently the cost of gasoline is exceeding three dollars per gallon. It is a constant subject in conversations. The ever-increasing cost of gasoline is a justified concern. For some people it is definite hardship. But it amazes me how some things will concern us, while other things which are more important fail to elicit from us even the same level of concern. What about the tragedy of lost souls? Of course, we realize that lost souls should be a greater concern to us than the cost of gasoline. As Jesus taught of the clear value of a person’s soul, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36 & 37). A person’s soul is their most precious and priceless possession. The greatest loss a person can suffer is to lose their soul.

Most of us are not in a position to do anything about the increasing gasoline prices. But there are things we can do to help lost souls have the opportunity to learn and obey the gospel. For example, we can take advantage of opportunities to answer Bible questions. We can invite people to attend the services of the church. We can actively show concern in the lives of other people. One action on our part has the potential of being the first step of someone learning and obeying the gospel. But before that first action is taken, we must have a true and sincere love for the souls of people.

I have no idea how high gasoline prices will go. But our great need is to keep things in perspective. I know that as use the opportunities available to us, lost souls will have the opportunity to learn and obey the Truth. Inspiration records these haunting words, “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men” (II Corinthians 5:11).

The Power Of Prayer Even In The Perils Of Life

Our Father in heaven does not want us to allow anxiety and doubt to control us. He has provided us with the resources to live our lives on a higher plane, even while dealing with the perils of life. As Jesus exclaimed, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). One tool we have been given as God’s children is the precious avenue of prayer. Rooted in His love for you and me is our Father’s willingness and desire to hear us, as we pray. We are reminded, “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers” (I Peter 3:12).

It is important in our spiritual development that we view prayer as more than something that only occurs in public settings. In the Scriptures we find many individuals pouring their hearts out to God in prayer. Also, many of the instructions concerning prayer, written to Christians, deal with every day life. Philippians 4:6 directs Christians, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” In a section highlighting various exhortations for Christians, we are reminded, “Pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17). Especially when we are struggling with distressing and troubling things issues in life, we need to approach each step with prayer. God’s faithfulness is one of His characteristics which assure us of the strength of prayer, as Psalm 34:4 highlights the Psalmist’s assurance, “I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”

God’s power to strengthen His people through prayer has not weakened across the years. Such traits as weakness, timidity, or doubt are not reflected in the following statement concerning prayer, “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him” (I John 5:14 & 15).

Sometimes we may feel overwhelmed and in deep pain, that we may think will never go away. But still the power of prayer is guaranteed for the Lord’s faithful (James 5:16). May God help us that our response toward life’s difficulties will be characterized by faith, as we are encouraged, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

More Like Jesus

Jesus Christ lived the only perfect life. Though scorned by His enemies and critics and sometimes even abandoned by His followers, Jesus remained true to His Father’s will. The following declaration from Jesus to His Father, just before going to the cross, verifies these statements, “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given me to do” (John 17:4).

A gospel song contains these words in the first stanza:

I want to be more like Jesus, and follow Him day by day;

I want to be true and faithful, And every command obey.

As we study the record of our Lord’s life in the gospel accounts, we learn how to approach our lives and live day by day. Observing His faithfulness to His Father’s will, even in the midst of temptations and struggles, should strengthen our resolve to be true and faithful to Him. When we have a proper attitude toward the Lord and His will, our obedience will naturally follow. Indeed, true obedience always flows from a heart of love. As the Bible affirms, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome” (I John 5:3).

Following Jesus is always described as a strong commitment. For example, Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). The intention behind this statement was not to discourage people from following Him, but Jesus wanted people to be sure they understood what was involved. Jesus also said, “Not everyone who says to Me, Lord Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in Heaven” (Matthew 7:21). This statement from Jesus is a reminder that our obedience to Jesus is more than a one-time action. The obedience the Lord demands of those who follow Him is obedience to Him for as long as we live.

The refrain of this gospel song heralds a message of dedication to the Lord, who gave His life for us:

More and more like Jesus, I would ever be;

More and more like Jesus, My Savior who died for me.

The example of Jesus presents us with a perfect pattern to follow. May our dedication to following Him grow stronger with each passing day so that we will truly be more like Jesus.

Why Religious Division And Confusion Exists

While division is usually viewed as a negative characteristic, in religion it is deemed by many people to be acceptable. We find different religious bodies wearing various names, engaging in different practices, and preaching varying messages. The idea that each denominational group is a part of the church as a whole is embraced. Also, the idea that each denominational body is a road we can choose to reach heaven has an appeal.

The New Testament emphasizes the importance and need for unity. The apostle Paul declared, “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (I Corinthians 1:10) The unity that is described here is not an agreement or willingness to “agree to disagree” on matters considered nonessential, while embracing a set of core beliefs. Consider also the prayer for unity, that Jesus prayed just before going to the cross, “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me” (John 17:20 & 21).

Unity in religion cannot be a reality when doctrinal statements of men, the positions of religious bodies, church manuals, and tradition are viewed as holding any kind of authority. We must agree that we are only going to follow the Scriptures. In the first century, when some Christians were turning away from the message that had been delivered to them by an apostle, they were exhorted by this apostle, “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:9).

Respecting the authority of the Scriptures will not produce various religious groups and practices. The apostle Paul stressed, “And what ever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17). The phrase, “in the name of the Lord,” literally means “by His authority.” Every belief and practice must be authorized if it is to have the Lord’s blessing. An application of this principle is the reason that instrumental music in worship is sinful. Simply put, there is no authority for instrumental music. We are only authorized to sing. If we fail to respect the authority of the Scriptures, we are going beyond the will of the Lord. The apostle John warned, “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son” (II John 9).. Properly understood, in light of the context of the New Testament, the “doctrine of Christ” is referring to the entirety of the New Testament. We must strictly stay with the perfect pattern of the Scriptures. The New Testament is God’s final revelation for mankind. As Jude described the New Testament, it is “the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3).

The teachings of men have produced false formulas for religious unity. Faithfully contending for the Lord’s standard of unity is not “horribly divisive,” as one person recently suggested. May God help us to teach with greater zeal the Lord’s plan for unity.

Desiring God

The Psalmist uses many descriptions to describe his longing for God. One of the most beautiful and picturesque descriptions is found in Psalm 42:1, "As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God." Imagine a deer that has been in the woods for several hours. As is the case with humans, the moment comes when the craving for something to drink begins. Thus the deer begins an earnest search for a cold stream where refreshment will be found. The idea set forth here is that the psalmist has an intense and insatiable desire that can only be satisfied by God.

The lesson from Psalm 42 is for us to go deeper in our relationship with our Father in heaven. Do not be satisfied with a superficial relationship. Perhaps the beginning point is to realize our personal dependence on God. As we sing in one sacred song concerning our God, “I Need Thee Every Hour.” From this attitude, develop an intense longing and desire for knowing and following the Father’s will, as revealed in the Scriptures, in every area of your life. Also, spend regular time in prayer to the Father. As the Hebrews writer reminds Christians, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

As His children, please remember the Father longs for us to live closely to Him. As the Psalmist exhorts concerning our heavenly Father, “Glory in His Holy name; let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the Lord! Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face evermore” (Psalm 105:3 & 4).

The God Of All Comfort

When the struggles and heartaches of life come to us, how grateful we are that we serve the one true and living God. It is our faith in God that sustains us, especially when the tumults and troubles of life hit us with a ferocious force. As the apostle Paul exclaimed, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort” (II Corinthians 1:3).

There is within most of us at least a certain degree of questioning and even doubts when tragedies come to good people. Tragedies never seem fair. The cry that is often heard is, “Why did God allow this to happen?” Or regret may be expressed in statements that begin with the phrase, “If only I had . . .” Questions may linger deep within the soul for many, many years.

But the reality is that questions relating to heartaches and hurts are seldom satisfactorily answered. In fact, an emphasis on such matters can do us much harm. Instead we need to place our focus on that which is sure and certain. This is where we can gain strength that will enable us to successfully function, even when unanswered questions and troubles invade our lives.

In all of life, we can have absolute confidence in the reality and existence of God. It is He who created and sustains this world. The beautiful emphasis of our text is that God is “the God of all comfort.” Indeed, it is from God that all comforts flow. When we hurt, God is aware and concerned. As His faithful children, we have the confidence that He cares. As the apostle Peter reminded suffering Christians, “Casting all your care upon Him, because He cares for you” (I Peter 5:7). The Psalmist David stressed, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

“The God of all comfort” is greater than any heartache or stress we may experience in this life. We can depend on His “exceedingly great and precious promises” (II Peter 1:3). While difficulties will sometimes come to us in life, we can persevere with the Lord’s help. As the apostle John assures us, “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith” (I John 5:4).

Even when it seems that our world has been broken and shattered, the one true and living God remains steadfast. His love for us remains (I John 3:1). Our hope in Him remains anchored (Hebrews 6:19). He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5 & 6).

There may be times in our lives when we wonder if the tears will ever stop flowing and if our hearts will ever quit hurting. But while questions and doubts may linger, the promises of the God of all comfort remain true. May we seek to put our faith in Him, as we are urged in Isaiah 40:31, “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”

Our Heavenly Citizenship

Every four years our nation is involved in a presidential election. Most of the attention is focused on the candidates of the two major political parties. The campaigns can and often become heated.

What should be our reaction as Christians? Just here, the question is not concerning which political party or candidate is better. Instead we need to keep before us the proper perspective. While we are thankful to live in a country where we have the freedom to vote, please remember our greater citizenship is our heavenly citizenship.

Personally, I believe Christians should vote. But no matter who wins the election in November, it will remain true that this earth is temporary. But our heavenly citizenship is eternal. “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).

All Of Us Need Help

The scene is a child struggling to accomplish a difficult task. He had thought this would be something he could do. But it has proven more difficult than first thought. On one level, he is ashamed to admit defeat. But on another level, reality is being slowly realized.

Another scene is of a person who has reached the point of accountability in his/her life. Many gospel sermons have been heard and many Bible classes have been attended. Also, friends and loved ones have tenderly pleaded for this person to obey the gospel. But thus far, this person has refused to obey. But the pressures of life and the inevitability of death have begun to weigh on the person’s mind Can this person ever be made to realize their soul’s deep need?

The preceding scenarios clearly illustrate the reality that each of us needs help along the pathway of life. This is true in a practical sense. But sometimes pride gets in the way. But on a deeper level, purpose of life, security, freedom, peace of mind, and the forgiveness of sins cannot be realized outside of Christ. Indeed, the gospel of Christ contains the only hope for mankind.

Mankind’s need for God is clearly in the following petition of Jeremiah, “O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps” (Jeremiah 10:23). God has placed within the heart of mankind, who has been made in His image (Genesis 1:26 & 27), a longing for Him. Please consider the fervent desire expressed by the Psalmist, “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God” (Psalm 42:1). Truly, the Psalmist realized his need for God, as he exclaimed, “The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid” (Psalm 27:1).

Remember that it is not just that God can help us in our lives, but that He longs to help us. He does not want anyone to be lost! He earnestly desires our obedience and faithfulness to Him (II Peter 3:9, I Timothy 2:4). Also, Jesus invites us, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Here is a basic principle of life: each of us needs help. May God help us to turn to Him with our obedience and faithfulness.

Where Is Your Mind?

The human mind is an interesting component within us. It affects practically every area of our lives. Also, it has a strong bearing on our success or failure as a person. What are some of the guidelines presented in the Bible concerning our minds?

A good beginning point is in Colossians 3. The apostle Paul begins this chapter by reminding Christians of their relationship to Christ and how this is to impact their lives, “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (verses 1 & 2). Here we learn what is to be the spiritual direction of our thoughts. Indeed, thoughts of Christ and His way are to be the driving force in our daily thought patterns. Vincent, in his classic book on word studies, suggests that “seek” in verse 1 marks the practical striving and that “set your mind” in verse 2, describes the inward impulse and disposition.

The Bible certainly teaches that we do control our thought patterns. If we choose to think negative thoughts, it will result in our being negative persons. But the opposite is always true, if we strive to think positive and optimistic thoughts, these attitudes will be clearly seen in our lives. In Philippians 4:8, the apostle Paul presents an inspired pattern for our daily thoughts, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue, and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things.” One person has wisely commented that you do not have to look very closely to find the Lord Jesus in Philippians 4:8. In a very practical way, it would be helpful if each of us would regularly examine our thinking and thought patterns by pondering each of these characteristics.

The principle set forth by Solomon remains just as true today, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7). These passages certainly should impress us with the importance of guarding our thoughts. If we will succeed here, our lives will be wonderfully impacted.

Intentional Daily Christian Living

Christianity is a daily religion. It is designed to influence in a positive way everything that comes our way. Our faith as Christians, which is grounded in God’s Word (Romans 10:17), gives us strength when we are stressed and hope when we feel hopeless. Only in Christ can we find real meaning and purpose for our lives.

Please ponder the following points that relate to this matter of intentional daily Christian living: “If Christ walked with you each day, heard everything you said, knew the very intentions of your heart – how would you live? Friend, our Lord does walk with us, does hear our words, and does know our heart!”

Our Lord said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

Don't Forget To Pray

With a few keystrokes, a message can be instantly sent anywhere in the world by way of the worldwide net. Telephone calls can be made to places thousands of miles away, oftentimes with the same kind of reception you would expect from a local call.
But as great as the preceding examples of modern communication, the marvel of prayer should continue to fascinate us. Anywhere in the world, without the aid of any special equipment, and at anytime of the day or night, we can pour out our hearts to our Father in Heaven. As we talk with our heavenly Father, we can express thanksgiving, ask for guidance, praise Him, ask for others to bless, and request and receive forgiveness of sins.

"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).

Living In The Real World

Some Thoughts From Psalm 37

Sometimes we may wish for a life with less stress, and more joy. Or from deep down within us, when the pressures of life are weighing heavily upon us, we may cry to the Lord, “Why?” Indeed, living in the real world can be a challenge at times. But no matter how difficult the burdens that come our way, God’s care and concern for us remains unchanged. When God’s people walk in His way, they are assured of victory in the real world.

Living in the real world demands that we place our total trust in the Lord. Notice the exhortation of verse 5, “Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass." In describing the foundation of the person whose trust is in the Lord, David said, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and he delights in his way” (vs. 23). In His infinite wisdom, the Lord provides us with a way in which we can place our confidence. The Psalmist goes on to say, “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholds him with His hand” (vs. 24). Resisting the temptation to make our way through life by ourselves, actually gives power to our lives. As we are assured in verses 39, “But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord, He is their strength in the time of trouble.”

While we will never be able to control other people or the circumstances we encounter, the Lord provides us with an anchor to help us endure the storms of life. The assurance of the Lord’s help to those who are His can never be doubted. As David declared, “I have been young, and now am old; Yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread” (vs. 25). Indeed, those who trust in the Lord always have an advantage when facing challenges. As the Psalmist said of the righteous, “The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide” (vs. 31).

Trying to ignore the difficulties is not the answer for living in the real world. But instead of allowing ourselves to be overcome by these things, we need to steadfastly look to the Lord. By placing our trust in Him, we are promised a victorious life.

What Can I Learn From This Section Of The Bible?

Perhaps you have had the experience of studying a section of the Bible, and wondering how it can benefit your life. To be sure, it is not because you doubt that it is inspired of God, but it just seems tedious to read and there seems to be no relation to our lives. Consider the first five chapters of the Old Testament book of Leviticus. The main subjects in this section of Scripture include the laws for burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings that God gave to Moses for Israel. For example, God told Moses, “If his offering be a burnt sacrifice of the herd, let him offer a male without blemish” (Leviticus 1:3) Also, God told Moses concerning the peace offerings, “And he shall lay his hand upon the head of his offering, and kill it at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and Aaron’s sons the priests shall sprinkle the blood upon the altar round about” (Leviticus 3:2). Though the laws set forth here do not apply to us in the Christian age, there are some principles here we can glean that will profit us:

1. God Always Desires And Deserves Our Best. Notice again what God told Moses concerning offering a burnt sacrifice of the herd. He emphasized that it was to be a male without blemish. “Without blemish” means that it was to be from the best of the herd. Indeed, if one chose to offer a male with blemish, God would not accept it. Consider our service to God. What does God desire and deserve? Jesus said, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). When reading from the book of Leviticus, let’s remember that we are to give God today our best. May our service and devotion to Him always be “without blemish.”

2. God Has Always Had A Pattern For Mankind. It is impressive to observe that God did not tell Moses that the people were to make certain sacrifices, but then fail to give appropriate instructions. For example, as seen in Leviticus 1:3, the burnt offering was to be a male without blemish. That was specific. A female without blemish or a male with blemish would not be acceptable, regardless of the attitude or intention of the person making the offering. When reading instructions like these from the book of Leviticus, we need to be impressed with how that our God has always been a God of pattern. Indeed, in the New Testament we find specific instructions for the way in which we are to live and worship. To violate God’s pattern in these matters, regardless of the intention or motive, is to ignore God’s will. As the apostle Paul stated to Christians, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17).

Ten Practical Suggestions To Help Us To Be More Soul Conscious

1. Remember that every person has an eternal soul.
2. Daily reflect on the beauties and glories that await the faithful of
God in heaven, and the horrors of hell that wait all people who do
not obey the gospel.
3. Pray daily for at least three people who have not obeyed gospel
Also, pray that you will be able to help them to learn and obey the
gospel of Christ.
4. Remember there are some people who may only become a New
Testament Christian, if you try to reach them with the gospel.
5. Be a true friend to people who are not New Testament Christians.
6. Seek opportunities to speak to others concerning spiritual matters.
7. Take advantage of opportunities to invite people to attend the
services of the church. While not everyone you invite will attend,
it is true that the more people you invite, the more who will accept
your invitation.
8. Remind yourself that some people will never have an interest in
spiritual matters. Therefore see your responsibility to influence
people who are open-minded to the Truth.
9. Never lose sight of the fact that for each person the length of their time on earth is uncertain.
10. See yourself as God’s instrument to help people who are lost. Willingly yield yourself in the Lord’s service.

Some Thoughts To Ponder About Change

We live in a changing world. A recent conversation with my daughter Hannah (she’s eleven years old) reminded me of this reality. She was shocked to learn that computers and cell phones are relatively recent fixtures in our daily lives. She thought it was absolutely funny that stamps at one time only cost eight cents (I remember this in the late 60’s) and gas was 32 cents per gallon.
But we need to also be reminded that some things do not change. Despite living in a changing world, the Bible is still God’s pattern and authority for our daily lives and service to God. The Lord’s church will never become a denomination or be a part of a denomination. Also, the saved are still added by the Lord to His church (Acts 2:47), and this will be God’s way until the end of time.
“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32).

Is One Church Reasonable?

The month of September means the beginning of the college football season. We cheer our favorite teams, and anticipate winning seasons. Each college and university participating in intercollegiate football will have one varsity team. Only one group of players is authorized to wear the official uniform of the team and participate. In fact, penalties would be exacted if another group of players or even if a couple of players not listed on the official roster were to be dressed out for the game.
Is it narrow minded that each college or university has only one varsity team? After all, there are always young men on campus who played high school football players, and perhaps were star players. There are also young men enrolled as students who dreamed even in their youth of playing college football. Maybe there is an undiscovered football talent, who with some training could be a star player. If such a young man came to the dressing room on Saturday desiring to be given a uniform, he would be denied a uniform.
Simply put, each college and university has only one official varsity team. No one would seriously consider that close-minded or arrogant. It is accepted because of the rules of the governing athletic authorities.
The idea that the Lord has only one church is in the minds of many people very arrogant and narrow minded. As Jesus said in response to Peter’s confession that He was the Christ, “On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). The apostle Paul emphasizes that the church is the body over which Christ is the head (Ephesians 1:22,23), and he also stresses, “There is one body” (Ephesians 4:4). It is certainly significant that Acts 2:47 records, “The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” This is the church referred to as being “According to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Ephesians 3:11).
As set forth in the New Testament, the church is a unique and distinctive body. To accept as authentic other religious groups which are styled as “churches” is to accept that which does not have the Lord’s authority. The one church is a part of God’s plan for saving mankind. As the apostle Paul exclaimed in praise to God, “To Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever” (Ephesians 3:21).

A Good Chain Reaction

Driving in the rain can be dangerous. On Thursday morning of this past week there was a chain reaction kind of wreck in front of an area school involving approximately four vehicles. From my perspective, I probably missed being in the middle of it by just a couple of moments.

I wonder what caused this chain reaction wreck to occur? Was someone inattentive to his or her responsibility of safely driving? Had someone woke up “on the wrong side of the bed?” Or perhaps the cause was entirely due to the weather conditions of the moment.

The scene I saw on this rainy morning was a vivid reminder that our actions often impact the lives of others. The church is always benefited when there is always an increase of enthusiasm and dedication. Will you help to start this kind of “chain reaction”?

“Not lagging in spirit, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord” (Romans 12:11).

"I Was Raised Church Of Christ"

Recently a woman related to me, “I was raised church of Christ.” But she quickly told me that she is now a member of a denominational group. I do not know if she ever obeyed the gospel, or the extent of her family’s involvement in the church.
During the past several days or so I have thought a great deal about this woman’s comment. Many of these thoughts relate to our young people. Here are some of these thoughts:
· Are we doing all we can to ground them in the truth of God’s Word? Do they understand the beauty and nature of pure New Testament Christianity as it relates to such issues as the exclusive nature of the Lord’s church, the New Testament pattern of acceptable worship, and the absolute nature of Truth?
· Are our young people learning that Christianity is more than a part of one’s life, but it is that which is to have a real impact in every area of their life?
· As adults, are we setting before them the right kind of example of New Testament Christianity? Do they vividly see Christian love and compassion in action? Are they daily observing from our lives the importance of real faith and trust in the Lord?
· Will any of our young people in years to come leave the Lord’s church for denominationalism, and make this comment I recently heard, “I was raised in the church of Christ?”
I remain convinced that the best natural resource we have in the Lord’s church today is our young people. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and attitudes can be inspiring. Their potential is probably greater than we often realize. Indeed, we owe them our very best efforts in teaching them the Lord’s will and way.

The Wonder Of Worship

Only mankind is given by God the privilege of worshipping Him. From the depths of our being we can express the longings of our hearts in praise and adoration to Him in whose image we have been created. Worship is an opportunity for us to magnify the Lord.
The priority we give to worship goes deeper than our attendance to worship services. It extends to the focus and concentration that characterizes our worship. A danger we must guard against is allowing ourselves to worship using a kind of “auto-pilot” approach. For example, when it’s time to sing, we sing. When someone begins to lead prayer, we may bow our heads and close our eyes. But our hearts may not be wholly involved.
Please notice the following the following texts from the Psalms that emphasize the wonder of worship:
“Give unto the Lord the glory due His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness” (29:2). Here we are reminded that the focus of worship is not about what I can gain. But rather worship is to involve giving glory to the Lord. Individually, our worship is an offering unto the Lord. Proper worship will be a reflection of the nature of God.
“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker” (95:6). Our worship is an acknowledgement of our need for the Lord. Therefore our worship needs to be an expression of our humility before the Lord.
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (100:4). Worship provides us with an opportunity to express thanksgiving to the Lord from the depths of our being. Without the Lord, we would have and be nothing. Truly, we are thankful to the Lord for salvation, His Word, and the continual blessings we receive from Him.

“I was glad when they said to me, Let us go into the house of the Lord” (122:1). A keen sense of anticipation should characterize our worship. To be sure, we should never approach worship with a sense of drudgery. Worship is a precious privilege extended to us by our heavenly Father to express our love to the Lord, and to draw closer unto Him.

Use It Now, Before It Is Gone

It is just after 8:00 on a Thursday morning. I have been out of bed for almost two hours. I ponder how that this day is ticking away, moment by moment. If I am to continue to make progress on making today productive, I must maintain my concentration and dedication to the tasks before me.

Solomon warns, “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth” (Proverbs 27:1). An easy temptation today is to think about tomorrow. After all, I can remember yesterday. And today was yesterday’s tomorrow. But properly considered, today is a gift from the Lord. How I use today will be a reflection of my appreciation to Him for the gift of today.

The following are some guidelines in making each day count.

Take Time To Let God Speak To You Through His Word.

May our attitude be as David’s toward God’s Word, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). The word of instruction, encouragement, or reminder that you receive today from the Bible may be exactly what you will need as you face whatever is before you tomorrow or next week.

Take Time To Speak To God Through The Avenue Of Prayer.

What a wonderful privilege is granted to us as God's children to come to Him in prayer. For the faithful of God, we are promised that we can approach Him with assurance, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16). Neglecting prayer today will make it easier to neglect prayer tomorrow.

· Take Time To Show An Active Interest In The Lives Of Others

The apostle Paul taught Christians, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). To be sure, this is not a justification for being nosey about another person’s life. But it does teach that we need to be alert to opportunities to assist other people, as we have opportunity (see also Galatians 6:10). The word of encouragement you speak to another person today has the possibility of making a profound difference in their life for many years to come. Indeed, we need to actively care for other people. Tomorrow it may be too late to show the care and concern that needs to be shown today.