There is a popular character many of our children watch on TV, Hannah Montana. For those of you who aren’t acquainted with this character, she is portrayed by Miley Cyrus, the daughter of Billy Ray Cyrus, the country music star. Miley Cyrus plays the character “Miley Stewart” who is the real life “Hanna Montana”, a very popular singing star. This show has spawned movies, t-shirts, posters, dolls, etc and has become a tremendous merchandising opportunity for the show’s developers Disney. And on the surface it is a harmless pre teen and teen show. Little girls all want to be like Hannah Montana. And she is a very likeable character. But is there an important lesson in this character?
The premise for the show is how “Miley” remains a typically “normal” teenager with all the associated problems. No one knows that she is “Hannah Montana”. (I always find it amazing how her concert tours, personal appearances, etc never interfere with her school activities; but this isn’t reality, is it?). The theme song for Hannah Montana is “The Best of Both Worlds”. And in the world of TV, she is able to maintain “both worlds” while providing entertainment for fans of her show. But can you have “The Best of Both Worlds”? I think you already know the answer to this one.
But the question I want to ask today is this: How many people want to have the “best of both”, the Kingdom of God and the world? They want to be obedient children of God, but the world constantly is pulling them back. They, like Miley, sometimes have to “bend the truth” and conceal what they do. They may not be able to tell even their family and friends the things they are doing. And in doing so find they cannot be happy in both worlds.
Christ told His followers: If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. John 15:19 ESV In this passage Jesus tells us we cannot be in “both worlds”. We have to make a choice. Someday, Miley will have to decide to be Miley or Hannah, but she can’t be both.
Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 ESV
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 ESV
Make the decision to be a faithful child of God. And in doing this, you will receive the best gift this world was ever given, in the salvation of Jesus Christ.
God loves you, He made you. Jesus loves you, He died for you. And I love you too.
My Electronic Pulpit
Who we are in the Lord's church?
Friday, January 29, 2010
My Way
This time of year we seem to be bombarded with the “post-holiday diet and weight loss ads deluge”. We all see the celebrities that have been successful in losing the weight and now endorse their respective plans. And those who stick to those plans can be just as successful. But many will say “that’s fine for them, but I don’t need them or their plan to be healthy and lose weight. I don’t like their methods”.
Weight loss programs are filled with rules… what you can and can’t eat. They want you to keep track of how much you weigh…how much you exercise…and they always want to tell you what to do. All they really want is your money, and they are really unrealistic on how much time someone can spend in the gym or exercising. Most folks really want to lose weight and be healthy, but feel they don’t need weight loss plans or gym memberships.
Of course, there is some benefit in being around other people with the same problems and goals as you. And having to account for your actions to someone other than yourself could be beneficial. And those programs do seem to get results. We all know someone who has lost weight and became healthier by following a diet and exercise regimen. And then we all know those who have said “I don’t need any help. I can do it my way. But I am serious about being healthy. I will do it MY WAY… someday”
Most that have this attitude never are successful. They criticize those who are trying. And anyone who is serious about their goals doesn’t want to be around them.
In the same way, how can someone say they want to be a child of God and not have any connection with the family of God, the church His Son died for? Maybe being a part of a church family is not for you? If you don’t want to be around folks that love God and each other and are passionate in their love for Jesus, if you don’t want to grow spiritually, and you get offended by folks that want to love you and want to help you live up to the commitment you made when you obeyed the Gospel…then maybe church isn’t for you. But for the rest of us it is as vital as the air that we breathe. We can’t live without it…and wouldn’t even if we could. And you really can’t make it without it either!
The great lie is that you can be a Christian and have Jesus in your life without being involved in His Body, the church. YOU CAN’T! We have to have each other’s love and support. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Ephesians 4:15-16. We know that “a new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35.
They will know we are Christians by our love!
Weight loss programs are filled with rules… what you can and can’t eat. They want you to keep track of how much you weigh…how much you exercise…and they always want to tell you what to do. All they really want is your money, and they are really unrealistic on how much time someone can spend in the gym or exercising. Most folks really want to lose weight and be healthy, but feel they don’t need weight loss plans or gym memberships.
Of course, there is some benefit in being around other people with the same problems and goals as you. And having to account for your actions to someone other than yourself could be beneficial. And those programs do seem to get results. We all know someone who has lost weight and became healthier by following a diet and exercise regimen. And then we all know those who have said “I don’t need any help. I can do it my way. But I am serious about being healthy. I will do it MY WAY… someday”
Most that have this attitude never are successful. They criticize those who are trying. And anyone who is serious about their goals doesn’t want to be around them.
In the same way, how can someone say they want to be a child of God and not have any connection with the family of God, the church His Son died for? Maybe being a part of a church family is not for you? If you don’t want to be around folks that love God and each other and are passionate in their love for Jesus, if you don’t want to grow spiritually, and you get offended by folks that want to love you and want to help you live up to the commitment you made when you obeyed the Gospel…then maybe church isn’t for you. But for the rest of us it is as vital as the air that we breathe. We can’t live without it…and wouldn’t even if we could. And you really can’t make it without it either!
The great lie is that you can be a Christian and have Jesus in your life without being involved in His Body, the church. YOU CAN’T! We have to have each other’s love and support. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Ephesians 4:15-16. We know that “a new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35.
They will know we are Christians by our love!
Good and Bad
We see things occurring in this world and often times do not understand “how can this be”? “Bad” things happen to seemingly “good” people and we see “bad” people prospering and doing well. How often do we find ourselves asking “Is there no justice in this world”? Especially when we have something bad happen to us or someone we love or care about. Did you know that Solomon also addressed this very issue? Here is what he said about it:
In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man may not find out anything that will be after him. In my vain life I have seen everything. There is a righteous man who perishes in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man who prolongs his life in his evildoing. Be not overly righteous, and do not make yourself too wise. Why should you destroy yourself? Be not overly wicked, neither be a fool. Why should you die before your time? (Ecclesiastes 7:14-17 ESV)
Solomon tells us that we will have both good days and bad days. We must always strive to remain focused on Jesus and following His example for our lives. In the following passage, Solomon tells us not to lose hope because:
It is good that you should take hold of this, and from that withhold not your hand, for the one who fears God shall come out from both of them. (Ecclesiastes 7:18 ESV)
Our focus can’t be this world. God knows our condition and the condition of this world. He has told us “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2 NKJV)
We sing “This world is not my home; I’m just a passin’ thru”. As we see the tragedy in Haiti, the violence that permeates our society, public and sports figures that become the objects of scandals, and wonder “What in the world is happening to the world?” do we find ourselves asking “what can I do”? Then turn back to the words of Solomon for the answer:
The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 ESV)
Have a blessed week. God loves you. You know it, but I just wanted to remind you. I love you too!
In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man may not find out anything that will be after him. In my vain life I have seen everything. There is a righteous man who perishes in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man who prolongs his life in his evildoing. Be not overly righteous, and do not make yourself too wise. Why should you destroy yourself? Be not overly wicked, neither be a fool. Why should you die before your time? (Ecclesiastes 7:14-17 ESV)
Solomon tells us that we will have both good days and bad days. We must always strive to remain focused on Jesus and following His example for our lives. In the following passage, Solomon tells us not to lose hope because:
It is good that you should take hold of this, and from that withhold not your hand, for the one who fears God shall come out from both of them. (Ecclesiastes 7:18 ESV)
Our focus can’t be this world. God knows our condition and the condition of this world. He has told us “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2 NKJV)
We sing “This world is not my home; I’m just a passin’ thru”. As we see the tragedy in Haiti, the violence that permeates our society, public and sports figures that become the objects of scandals, and wonder “What in the world is happening to the world?” do we find ourselves asking “what can I do”? Then turn back to the words of Solomon for the answer:
The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 ESV)
Have a blessed week. God loves you. You know it, but I just wanted to remind you. I love you too!
Can We Love More?
“For God so loved the world…” (John 3:16)
“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” (1 John 4:8)
“Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.” (1 John 4:16)
I’m really not sure why this concept is so hard for some of us to comprehend and act upon, but please take a few minutes and reflect on these words from an unknown author:
Allow yourself to be loved. There is way too much hurt in this old world, and you often have to handle more than your fair share of it. So if someone wants to love you, to do good to you, to treat you right- let them…and enjoy it!
Love more. Make a personal commitment to love more. Start by trying to think- “What would be the loving thing to do/ say/ or act in this situation? Then “just do it”! Some of us have been trained to be way too judgmental, to hold on to grudges, to become bitter toward each other, and to hold on to and never let go of pain…I think it is mostly because we are just what we are…HUMAN.
Don’t let someone leave your presence without them feeling loved. Say that thing that you need to say…and they need to hear. Let those around you know how special they are to you…and loved.
Set your mind to be that one person- even if those around you aren’t…don’t…won’t.
Love more…hate less - Smile more…frown less - Laugh more…cry less
So that the love of God can be known….Love more
This “note” could have been written to each of us by Jesus Himself. He left us with the following instructions:
“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:35)
“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” (1 John 4:8)
“Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.” (1 John 4:16)
I’m really not sure why this concept is so hard for some of us to comprehend and act upon, but please take a few minutes and reflect on these words from an unknown author:
Allow yourself to be loved. There is way too much hurt in this old world, and you often have to handle more than your fair share of it. So if someone wants to love you, to do good to you, to treat you right- let them…and enjoy it!
Love more. Make a personal commitment to love more. Start by trying to think- “What would be the loving thing to do/ say/ or act in this situation? Then “just do it”! Some of us have been trained to be way too judgmental, to hold on to grudges, to become bitter toward each other, and to hold on to and never let go of pain…I think it is mostly because we are just what we are…HUMAN.
Don’t let someone leave your presence without them feeling loved. Say that thing that you need to say…and they need to hear. Let those around you know how special they are to you…and loved.
Set your mind to be that one person- even if those around you aren’t…don’t…won’t.
Love more…hate less - Smile more…frown less - Laugh more…cry less
So that the love of God can be known….Love more
This “note” could have been written to each of us by Jesus Himself. He left us with the following instructions:
Resolutions
It is that time of year once again when we all make those “New Year’s Resolutions”. Do you remember what yours were last year? If you are like most of us, me included, you don’t. I have often wondered where and when this tradition began. According to the internet, it dates back to the early Babylonians. So it would seem that we have a long history of both making and breaking New Year’s resolutions.
Everyone has some aspect of their lives they would like to change or improve on. Be it a bad habit, weight, exercise, health, financial, or work; we all can find something we want to change in our lives. As well, we can find areas of our Christianity we can improve on as well. Many will resolve to read their Bible more, pray more, be more mission minded, and be involved. And all of these are good things to strive for. But I want to challenge you to make a New Year’s resolution with me that cover all these things and more. Be more like Jesus every day. He has told us that:
These things I command you, so that you will love one another. "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. (John 15:17-21 ESV)
If we are following His commandments and His example, we will love each other. No matter what happens. We will laugh together, cry together, feel joy together, and feel pain together. And there will be times that we will be the source of pain to another brother or sister. And when that happens, let us strive to have the heart of Jesus, who from the cross, looking down at those who had Him crucified, said
"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34 ESV) Can this often be said about those who cause us pain? We as humans often hurt feelings, step on toes, and offend each other, and never realize it has occurred. When this happens, we are to “love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another”. (John 13:34 ESV) and forgive each other as God forgives us. In doing so, we bless those who hurt us, and receive a blessing ourselves.
I pray that we all have the forgiving heart of Jesus in the coming year, and His love shines in our lives every moment of every day.
Everyone has some aspect of their lives they would like to change or improve on. Be it a bad habit, weight, exercise, health, financial, or work; we all can find something we want to change in our lives. As well, we can find areas of our Christianity we can improve on as well. Many will resolve to read their Bible more, pray more, be more mission minded, and be involved. And all of these are good things to strive for. But I want to challenge you to make a New Year’s resolution with me that cover all these things and more. Be more like Jesus every day. He has told us that:
These things I command you, so that you will love one another. "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. (John 15:17-21 ESV)
If we are following His commandments and His example, we will love each other. No matter what happens. We will laugh together, cry together, feel joy together, and feel pain together. And there will be times that we will be the source of pain to another brother or sister. And when that happens, let us strive to have the heart of Jesus, who from the cross, looking down at those who had Him crucified, said
"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34 ESV) Can this often be said about those who cause us pain? We as humans often hurt feelings, step on toes, and offend each other, and never realize it has occurred. When this happens, we are to “love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another”. (John 13:34 ESV) and forgive each other as God forgives us. In doing so, we bless those who hurt us, and receive a blessing ourselves.
I pray that we all have the forgiving heart of Jesus in the coming year, and His love shines in our lives every moment of every day.
Isn’t it Wonderful?
We did it. Another Christmas has come and gone. The gifts have all been given, the feasts eaten, and the carols sung. The stockings are empty waiting until next year (FYI- there is only 363 shopping days until Christmas). Many will be taking down the decorations and the trees in the coming days. And we return to the “everyday” life. But can I ask you a question? How would you like for everyday to feel like Christmas morning? You can, you know. “Has Doug lost his mind?” might be your next question or remark. But it is possible for everyday to be like Christmas.
What was the greatest gift ever given? We read that “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son” John 3:16 ESV. In the history of man not a greater gift was given. If we are living in Christ and keeping His commandments, do we not enjoy that gift every day? Can’t we share those warm feelings every day? Why do some think that we can only have this spirit during the “holiday season”? I want to challenge each of you to in the words of Ebenezer Scrooge “Keep Christmas in your heart every day”.
Keep the feelings of love alive in your daily life. Jesus tells us:
If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another. (John 15:10-17 ESV)
Enjoy this wonderful gift that will never wear out, break, become too large or small, or change in any way. We love Him because He first loved us. And we love each other because of Him.
What was the greatest gift ever given? We read that “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son” John 3:16 ESV. In the history of man not a greater gift was given. If we are living in Christ and keeping His commandments, do we not enjoy that gift every day? Can’t we share those warm feelings every day? Why do some think that we can only have this spirit during the “holiday season”? I want to challenge each of you to in the words of Ebenezer Scrooge “Keep Christmas in your heart every day”.
Keep the feelings of love alive in your daily life. Jesus tells us:
If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another. (John 15:10-17 ESV)
Enjoy this wonderful gift that will never wear out, break, become too large or small, or change in any way. We love Him because He first loved us. And we love each other because of Him.
Can’t we all just get along?
If you have a group of people, no matter what their age, sooner or later there will be a point of contention between folks. Many times feelings will be hurt, words misspoken or misheard, or intentions misinterpreted. We are a fickle creation. But no matter what the reason, at any given time, there will be folks within our church family that are upset with someone else. They will not speak or associate with each other. The animosity can be seen and felt by others within our Christian family. It may even take the form of some “choosing sides” between the parties involved. What do we do when this occurs? The first thing we must do is pray. Pray for the person that you have hurt or that has hurt you. Ask for His will to be done in your lives. But did you know that Jesus knew this would happen, and gave us instructions as to what we HAVE to do to make this right in Him? Let us look at these important instructions: "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to that person; then come and offer your gift. (Matthew 5:23-24) Our worship to God is our gift at the altar today. We must love one another if His love abides in us: "If a brother or sister sins, go and point out the fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. (Matthew 18:15) This is not a suggestion, but a COMMAND. We are human beings, and as such ruled by our emotions. And Satan knows this better than anyone. He uses our emotions against us every opportunity he can. He tells us that “we are always the injured party” and “it’s up to the other person to ask for our forgiveness” and his worst suggestion “I can never forgive that person for what they have done…EVER”. What does God say about this? If we say we love God yet hate a brother or sister, we are liars. For if we do not love a fellow believer, whom we have seen, we cannot love God, whom we have not seen. And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love one another. (1 John 4:20-21) Don’t listen to Satan, listen to God. If anyone has asked you to forgive them, don’t let another moment pass until you do. If you have wronged someone, please ask them for forgiveness as well. If I have wronged anyone, please accept my plea for your forgiveness. If we do this, we will truly be abiding in His love. But Jesus knew that there would be some who will not forgive or ask for forgiveness, and He says about them: "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain." (Matthew 15:8-9)
During this time of year, the love of God and our love for Him and for each other are foremost on our hearts and minds. Let us love each other, care for each other, and FORGIVE each other, as He has forgiven us. God loves me, God loves you, and if we love each other we are in His love too.
During this time of year, the love of God and our love for Him and for each other are foremost on our hearts and minds. Let us love each other, care for each other, and FORGIVE each other, as He has forgiven us. God loves me, God loves you, and if we love each other we are in His love too.
For Granted
Just this week, I learned ONCE again how not to take things for granted. Wednesday night during the cold weather our water pipes froze. Tori was sick with a stomach “bug” and Laura and I had gotten up to attend to her when we discovered the water wasn’t working in Tori’s bathroom. Going to our bathroom I discovered the same, and found the only water we had in the whole house was the “cold” water in the kitchen sink. So I left it running a “trickle” and got to spend the better part of Thursday morning and early afternoon thawing pipes and trying to prevent a re-occurrence. I had forgotten about living in older houses like I used to. This was the first time on over 20 years I had experienced frozen pipes.
How often do we, as Christians find ourselves taking things for granted the same way I did the water pipes? Have we been in His Love and Grace so long that we have forgotten how it feels not to be? There is no place better than to be in the warmth and love of God’s Grace. Shouldn’t we want all of our friends and loved ones to feel this love too? Or have we been warm for so long that we have forgotten the “cold of the world and sin”?
I take for granted that when I flip on the light switch I will no longer be in the dark. And that I will wake up to a warm house on a cold morning. Or that my car will start when I turn the key. I never think about any of these things not happening until they don’t. In the same way, make sure that we don’t take God’s Love and Jesus’ sacrifice for us for granted as well. Tell God how thankful you are for His Love, and for the sacrifice of His Son and our Savior Jesus. Someday we will all get to go home where there are never frozen pipes, flat tires, broken furnaces, or any of the other things of this world. All we will need we will have, that is God’s Love as we sing His praises around His throne in Heaven. “Oh won’t it be wonderful there!”
Some people may ask “what is the reason for the season”? It is love. His love for us…Our love for Him…and our love for each other. To know love is to know God…For God is love.
How often do we, as Christians find ourselves taking things for granted the same way I did the water pipes? Have we been in His Love and Grace so long that we have forgotten how it feels not to be? There is no place better than to be in the warmth and love of God’s Grace. Shouldn’t we want all of our friends and loved ones to feel this love too? Or have we been warm for so long that we have forgotten the “cold of the world and sin”?
I take for granted that when I flip on the light switch I will no longer be in the dark. And that I will wake up to a warm house on a cold morning. Or that my car will start when I turn the key. I never think about any of these things not happening until they don’t. In the same way, make sure that we don’t take God’s Love and Jesus’ sacrifice for us for granted as well. Tell God how thankful you are for His Love, and for the sacrifice of His Son and our Savior Jesus. Someday we will all get to go home where there are never frozen pipes, flat tires, broken furnaces, or any of the other things of this world. All we will need we will have, that is God’s Love as we sing His praises around His throne in Heaven. “Oh won’t it be wonderful there!”
Some people may ask “what is the reason for the season”? It is love. His love for us…Our love for Him…and our love for each other. To know love is to know God…For God is love.
I'm Afraid I Can't Live Up To It ..., by Steve Ridgell
I found the article below this week and wanted to pass it along to you. I hope you find it uplifting.
I'm Afraid I Can't Live Up To It ..., by Steve Ridgell
Buy in. Let go. Take a leap. Get out of the boat. Walk on the water.
Go all in. Sell out completely. Give it all up. Don’t hold anything back.
All of these phrases refer to the spiritual concept of being totally committed to Jesus. It is a desire many of us have had but not all of us have done. Maybe you are one of those. You find yourself hanging around the fringes of Christianity – knowing there is more to it. You go to church on Easter, Christmas, and Mother’s Day. You pray when in crisis. You try not to do anything very bad, and you try to be a pretty good person. But all the time you know there is more to it. What is holding you back?
It may be the fear that you will not be able to live up to that kind of commitment. What if you don’t get all the sin out of your life? What if you lose your spiritual focus sometimes?
Let me share some good news. God does not expect you to do it all on your own. When you make that decision to fully commit to Jesus, he provides valuable resources to help you be His person in this world.
God gives you His Holy Spirit to live in you. You get that gift when you are baptized. The Holy Spirit gives you power to put to death the sin in your life. The Holy Spirit will help you become the person God sees in you. It serves as a guarantee of salvation until Jesus comes back.
God knew I would need help to stay faithful.
God puts you in community. You are not on this journey alone. We are family. We are one body. We share in the same baptism, we celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus together, and we share the same Holy Spirit. We pray together, worship together, and serve together. We provide for our needs together. We encourage each other, hold each other accountable, and forgive each other. We laugh together and we cry together.
Remember to love each other as He loved us.
I'm Afraid I Can't Live Up To It ..., by Steve Ridgell
Buy in. Let go. Take a leap. Get out of the boat. Walk on the water.
Go all in. Sell out completely. Give it all up. Don’t hold anything back.
All of these phrases refer to the spiritual concept of being totally committed to Jesus. It is a desire many of us have had but not all of us have done. Maybe you are one of those. You find yourself hanging around the fringes of Christianity – knowing there is more to it. You go to church on Easter, Christmas, and Mother’s Day. You pray when in crisis. You try not to do anything very bad, and you try to be a pretty good person. But all the time you know there is more to it. What is holding you back?
It may be the fear that you will not be able to live up to that kind of commitment. What if you don’t get all the sin out of your life? What if you lose your spiritual focus sometimes?
Let me share some good news. God does not expect you to do it all on your own. When you make that decision to fully commit to Jesus, he provides valuable resources to help you be His person in this world.
God gives you His Holy Spirit to live in you. You get that gift when you are baptized. The Holy Spirit gives you power to put to death the sin in your life. The Holy Spirit will help you become the person God sees in you. It serves as a guarantee of salvation until Jesus comes back.
God knew I would need help to stay faithful.
God puts you in community. You are not on this journey alone. We are family. We are one body. We share in the same baptism, we celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus together, and we share the same Holy Spirit. We pray together, worship together, and serve together. We provide for our needs together. We encourage each other, hold each other accountable, and forgive each other. We laugh together and we cry together.
Remember to love each other as He loved us.
A puzzle for you
I hope that everyone had a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. Mine was marvelous (ask Ginny Norman about “marvelous”). We all ate too much, laughed a lot, watched some football, and maybe even began to shop for our friends and loved one’s gifts. But when you are a child of God, every moment of every day, we are always thankful for His love and grace.
The following puzzle was given to me by Becky Cash. I had seen it several years ago, and remembered how challenging it was to me. And I would like to challenge you with it today.
There are the names of 30 books of the Bible contained in the paragraph below. But read the ENTIRE paragraph before beginning to solve it, because your instructions are contained within the paragraph itself. And for a bonus for the Biblical scholars amongst you, there is a variation of an Old Testament prophet’s name in the paragraph as well, which brings the total to 31 names. Have fun with this, the answers will be revealed in next week’s bulletin.
There are 30 books of the Bible in this paragraph. Can you find them? This is a most remarkable puzzle. It was found by a gentleman in an airplane seat pocket, on a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping him occupied for hours. He enjoyed it so much; he passed it on to some friends. One friend from Illinois worked on this while fishing from his john boat. Another friend studied it while playing his banjo. Elaine Taylor, a columnist friend, was so intrigued by it she mentioned it in her weekly newspaper column. Another friend judges the job of solving this puzzle so involving, she brews a cup of tea to help her nerves. There will be some names that are really easy to spot. That's a fact. Some people, however, will soon find themselves in a jam, especially since the book names are not necessarily capitalized. Truthfully, from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a minister or a scholar to see some of them at the worst. Research has shown that something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have in seeing the books in this paragraph. During a recent fund raising event, which featured this puzzle, the Alpha Delta Phi lemonade booth set a new record. The local paper, The Chronicle, surveyed over 200 patrons who reported that this puzzle was one of the most difficult they had ever seen. As Daniel Humana humbly puts it, "The books are all right here in plain view hidden from sight." Those able to find all of them will hear great lamentations from those who have to be shown. One revelation that may help is that books like Timothy and Samuel may occur without their numbers. Also, keep in mind, that punctuation and spaces in the middle are normal. A chipper attitude will help you compete really well against those who claim to know the answers. Remember, there is no need for a mad exodus; there really are 30 books of the Bible lurking somewhere in this paragraph waiting to be found. God Bless.
Have a blessed day, week and life. Tell God how much you love Him, and tell another one of God’s children how much you love them too each day. All we need is love…God’s love…in our lives every moment of every day. I love you, now go and love each other.
The following puzzle was given to me by Becky Cash. I had seen it several years ago, and remembered how challenging it was to me. And I would like to challenge you with it today.
There are the names of 30 books of the Bible contained in the paragraph below. But read the ENTIRE paragraph before beginning to solve it, because your instructions are contained within the paragraph itself. And for a bonus for the Biblical scholars amongst you, there is a variation of an Old Testament prophet’s name in the paragraph as well, which brings the total to 31 names. Have fun with this, the answers will be revealed in next week’s bulletin.
There are 30 books of the Bible in this paragraph. Can you find them? This is a most remarkable puzzle. It was found by a gentleman in an airplane seat pocket, on a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping him occupied for hours. He enjoyed it so much; he passed it on to some friends. One friend from Illinois worked on this while fishing from his john boat. Another friend studied it while playing his banjo. Elaine Taylor, a columnist friend, was so intrigued by it she mentioned it in her weekly newspaper column. Another friend judges the job of solving this puzzle so involving, she brews a cup of tea to help her nerves. There will be some names that are really easy to spot. That's a fact. Some people, however, will soon find themselves in a jam, especially since the book names are not necessarily capitalized. Truthfully, from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a minister or a scholar to see some of them at the worst. Research has shown that something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have in seeing the books in this paragraph. During a recent fund raising event, which featured this puzzle, the Alpha Delta Phi lemonade booth set a new record. The local paper, The Chronicle, surveyed over 200 patrons who reported that this puzzle was one of the most difficult they had ever seen. As Daniel Humana humbly puts it, "The books are all right here in plain view hidden from sight." Those able to find all of them will hear great lamentations from those who have to be shown. One revelation that may help is that books like Timothy and Samuel may occur without their numbers. Also, keep in mind, that punctuation and spaces in the middle are normal. A chipper attitude will help you compete really well against those who claim to know the answers. Remember, there is no need for a mad exodus; there really are 30 books of the Bible lurking somewhere in this paragraph waiting to be found. God Bless.
Have a blessed day, week and life. Tell God how much you love Him, and tell another one of God’s children how much you love them too each day. All we need is love…God’s love…in our lives every moment of every day. I love you, now go and love each other.
On the Road Again
Willie Nelson made famous the song “On the Road Again”. During the holiday seasons of Thanksgiving and Christmas, many of us will feel like Willie was singing just about us. After the services Wednesday night, Laura, Tori and I will be heading out to Tennessee to spend some time with Travis and Laura’s parents. And I know others that will be making similar treks to visit with friends and family as well. I would like to share the following funny story with you:
When preparing for a family trip, a couple explained to their young children that they would be sitting in the car for a very long time. The kids were told they would not be arriving at their destination until after dark, and they were warned not to keep saying, “Are we there yet?” After a few minutes of peaceful driving, their four year old daughter asked, “Is it dark yet?”
We have many examples of long journeys in the Bible. Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Jonah, and many others are told about in Scripture. The apostle Paul made his many missionary journeys. Jesus was born during a trip, although I’m quite sure that Joseph and Mary weren’t on vacation. People in the Bible traveled a lot. And modern Christians have continued this until today. But today we travel for a different reason. We travel for pleasure, recreation, and visitation. The Jews and Christians usually did not. They traveled to worship, or at a decree of the government.
As you travel, remember that assurance we have from the 23rd Psalm:
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalms 23:1-6 ESV)
Be careful, be safe, and be blessed. "May the LORD watch between you and me when we are absent one from another. (Genesis 31:49 NKJV)
God loves You, God loves Me, We are all God’s Family!
When preparing for a family trip, a couple explained to their young children that they would be sitting in the car for a very long time. The kids were told they would not be arriving at their destination until after dark, and they were warned not to keep saying, “Are we there yet?” After a few minutes of peaceful driving, their four year old daughter asked, “Is it dark yet?”
We have many examples of long journeys in the Bible. Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Jonah, and many others are told about in Scripture. The apostle Paul made his many missionary journeys. Jesus was born during a trip, although I’m quite sure that Joseph and Mary weren’t on vacation. People in the Bible traveled a lot. And modern Christians have continued this until today. But today we travel for a different reason. We travel for pleasure, recreation, and visitation. The Jews and Christians usually did not. They traveled to worship, or at a decree of the government.
As you travel, remember that assurance we have from the 23rd Psalm:
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalms 23:1-6 ESV)
Be careful, be safe, and be blessed. "May the LORD watch between you and me when we are absent one from another. (Genesis 31:49 NKJV)
God loves You, God loves Me, We are all God’s Family!
Murder in Mayberry
As many of you know, I was born and raised in the mountains of North Carolina. Not too far from the town I lived in, Boone, is Mt. Airy. Most of you already know a lot about Mt. Airy and don’t even realize it. Mt. Airy was the hometown of Andy Griffith and the inspiration and model for Mayberry on “The Andy Griffin Show”
While watching the morning news on November 2nd the following headline appeared on the crawler- “Four people murdered in NC Mountains”, but no further information was offered. I turned to the web and found that four men were murdered in Mt. Airy on November 1st. As of today, no reason has been given for the murders, but police do not believe the killings were random acts. Mt. Airy is a small town of around 8,700. These violent acts have turned this quiet rural community on its head.
This is a far cry from the beloved Mayberry that Andy and Barney protected, with only one gun and one bullet between them.
Isn’t it ironic that even in the town that Mayberry was patterned after we see the influence and power of the world? Mayberry was synonymous with “small town America”. But even Mayberry isn’t immune to the influence of the world. Isn’t this just a further indicator of how fallen the world has become? I often times wish I didn’t watch the evening news because of how disheartening it can be. I ask myself “how can people do the unthinkable things they do to each other?” Our local and network news gives us a steady diet of the immoral and unthinkable acts that people commit on each other. After a time, this diet of “news” can have a negative influence on our emotional and spiritual lives.
But then remember: Don’t let these acts of evil in the world to bring you down. Instead, let this cause you to lift your eyes in expectation of a better world that is yet to come! Remember, we were never promised “heaven on earth”, but instead according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. (2 Peter 3:13 ESV).
Many of us have wished that we could have called “Mayberry” home. But guess what? As a child of God, we can claim a hometown that far surpasses “Mayberry”. We have a hometown that evil can never touch, where “I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:3-4 ESV)
While watching the morning news on November 2nd the following headline appeared on the crawler- “Four people murdered in NC Mountains”, but no further information was offered. I turned to the web and found that four men were murdered in Mt. Airy on November 1st. As of today, no reason has been given for the murders, but police do not believe the killings were random acts. Mt. Airy is a small town of around 8,700. These violent acts have turned this quiet rural community on its head.
This is a far cry from the beloved Mayberry that Andy and Barney protected, with only one gun and one bullet between them.
Isn’t it ironic that even in the town that Mayberry was patterned after we see the influence and power of the world? Mayberry was synonymous with “small town America”. But even Mayberry isn’t immune to the influence of the world. Isn’t this just a further indicator of how fallen the world has become? I often times wish I didn’t watch the evening news because of how disheartening it can be. I ask myself “how can people do the unthinkable things they do to each other?” Our local and network news gives us a steady diet of the immoral and unthinkable acts that people commit on each other. After a time, this diet of “news” can have a negative influence on our emotional and spiritual lives.
But then remember: Don’t let these acts of evil in the world to bring you down. Instead, let this cause you to lift your eyes in expectation of a better world that is yet to come! Remember, we were never promised “heaven on earth”, but instead according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. (2 Peter 3:13 ESV).
Many of us have wished that we could have called “Mayberry” home. But guess what? As a child of God, we can claim a hometown that far surpasses “Mayberry”. We have a hometown that evil can never touch, where “I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:3-4 ESV)
Stone soup
I grew up in a different time. TV was different. There was no Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, PBS, Sesame Street, Disney Channel, or any other 24/7 “children’s programming”. But I did love to watch Captain Kangaroo every morning. Captain Kangaroo was on every weekday morning for 29 years from 1955 until 1984. It was on this show I was introduced to the story of “Stone Soup” which goes like this:
Three soldiers, hungry and weary from battle, were walking through the land when they came upon a village. As they entered, the villagers moved towards their homes locking doors and windows. The villagers met the soldiers at the village square. "There's not a bite to eat in the whole province," they told the soldiers. "We are weak and our children are starving. Better keep moving on." "Oh, we have everything we need," one soldier said. "In fact, we were thinking of making some stone soup to share with all of you. You sir, look hungry. Would you like some?" “Stone soup! What a ridiculous thing!” the villagers exclaimed. “You can’t make soup from a stone!” But the three soldiers gingerly reached into their pockets, and each pulled out a smooth, round stone. “We have with us some wonderful stones that should make for a great and hearty soup. Do you have a large kettle we might borrow to make our stone soup in?” A large pot was brought to the village square, filled with water, and a roaring fire built under it. Each soldier in turn dropped their stone into the water. They waited for their stone soup to come to a boil as they stirred it with a large wooden spoon. By now, hearing the rumor of food, most of the villagers had come out of their homes or watched from their windows. As the soldiers sniffed the "broth" and licked their lips in anticipation, hunger began to overcome their fear. "Ahh," one soldier said to himself rather loudly, "I do like a tasty stone soup. Of course, stone soup with cabbage -- that's hard to beat." Soon a villager approached hesitantly, holding a small cabbage he'd retrieved from its hiding place, and added it to the pot. "Wonderful!!" cried the soldiers. "You know, I once had stone soup with cabbage and a bit of salt beef as well, and it was fit for a king." The village butcher managed to find some salt beef . . . and so it went, through potatoes, onions, carrots, mushrooms, and so on, until there was indeed a delicious meal for everyone in the village to share. The villager elder offered the soldiers a great deal of money for their stones, but they refused to sell them and traveled on the next day. As they left, the soldiers came upon a group of village children standing near the road. One gave his stone to the youngest child, whispering to a group, that it was not the stone, but the villagers that had performed the magic."
Sometimes we as Christians can find ourselves reliving this story in a spiritual way. After the world has beaten us up all week long, we may not think we have enough of God’s love to share with anyone in need. “We are weak and starving...move on” may be what we are saying unconsciously. We just don’t have enough faith to share with anyone. You may find yourself “hanging on by a thread”. But then, just like the soldiers, we are reminded of the stone that Jesus gave us. That blessed Gospel stone…the ROCK of Peter’s confession… "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."Mt. 16:16 to which Jesus replied "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Mt. 16:17-18. But just like the villagers, if we combine the faith we have with the “stone” of God’s word, we find that ALL can be nourished from the combination of our worship to God and our faith in Him. His son tells us… “I am with you always, to the end of the age." Mt. 28:20. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Mt. 5:6.
Jesus too, gave us a “stone” that money can’t buy. He gave Himself, the 'The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? Mt. 21:42. And in this is the precious gift of salvation. Isn’t it wonderful to have that gift; the gift of the promise of Heaven, eternal life, and the love of God forever and ever?
Three soldiers, hungry and weary from battle, were walking through the land when they came upon a village. As they entered, the villagers moved towards their homes locking doors and windows. The villagers met the soldiers at the village square. "There's not a bite to eat in the whole province," they told the soldiers. "We are weak and our children are starving. Better keep moving on." "Oh, we have everything we need," one soldier said. "In fact, we were thinking of making some stone soup to share with all of you. You sir, look hungry. Would you like some?" “Stone soup! What a ridiculous thing!” the villagers exclaimed. “You can’t make soup from a stone!” But the three soldiers gingerly reached into their pockets, and each pulled out a smooth, round stone. “We have with us some wonderful stones that should make for a great and hearty soup. Do you have a large kettle we might borrow to make our stone soup in?” A large pot was brought to the village square, filled with water, and a roaring fire built under it. Each soldier in turn dropped their stone into the water. They waited for their stone soup to come to a boil as they stirred it with a large wooden spoon. By now, hearing the rumor of food, most of the villagers had come out of their homes or watched from their windows. As the soldiers sniffed the "broth" and licked their lips in anticipation, hunger began to overcome their fear. "Ahh," one soldier said to himself rather loudly, "I do like a tasty stone soup. Of course, stone soup with cabbage -- that's hard to beat." Soon a villager approached hesitantly, holding a small cabbage he'd retrieved from its hiding place, and added it to the pot. "Wonderful!!" cried the soldiers. "You know, I once had stone soup with cabbage and a bit of salt beef as well, and it was fit for a king." The village butcher managed to find some salt beef . . . and so it went, through potatoes, onions, carrots, mushrooms, and so on, until there was indeed a delicious meal for everyone in the village to share. The villager elder offered the soldiers a great deal of money for their stones, but they refused to sell them and traveled on the next day. As they left, the soldiers came upon a group of village children standing near the road. One gave his stone to the youngest child, whispering to a group, that it was not the stone, but the villagers that had performed the magic."
Sometimes we as Christians can find ourselves reliving this story in a spiritual way. After the world has beaten us up all week long, we may not think we have enough of God’s love to share with anyone in need. “We are weak and starving...move on” may be what we are saying unconsciously. We just don’t have enough faith to share with anyone. You may find yourself “hanging on by a thread”. But then, just like the soldiers, we are reminded of the stone that Jesus gave us. That blessed Gospel stone…the ROCK of Peter’s confession… "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."Mt. 16:16 to which Jesus replied "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Mt. 16:17-18. But just like the villagers, if we combine the faith we have with the “stone” of God’s word, we find that ALL can be nourished from the combination of our worship to God and our faith in Him. His son tells us… “I am with you always, to the end of the age." Mt. 28:20. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Mt. 5:6.
Jesus too, gave us a “stone” that money can’t buy. He gave Himself, the 'The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? Mt. 21:42. And in this is the precious gift of salvation. Isn’t it wonderful to have that gift; the gift of the promise of Heaven, eternal life, and the love of God forever and ever?
Playing Second Fiddle by Russ Lawson
Many people in our world are motivated by praise of others; that is not a bad thing if dealt with properly. After all, the scripture repeatedly reminds us to encourage and exhort one another. Some folks though live their lives in search of, perhaps in pursuit of praise from the lips or pens of men and women. I have known people who have such an ego that they cannot function if there is someone who does not appreciate them.
It may be of interest to know that the word "Ego" originated from the Latin word for "I". This can be understood by listening to the conversation of a person with an "ego problem." You will find that the word "I" is used repeatedly as if they are the center of all there is.
Leonard Bernstein, the celebrated orchestra conductor, was asked, "What is the hardest instrument to play?" He replied without hesitation: "Second fiddle. I can always get plenty of first violinists, but to find one who plays second violin with as much enthusiasm or second French horn or second flute, now that's a problem. And yet if no one plays second, we have no harmony."
How are you at "playing second fiddle"? You see, God's church only functions properly if people work "in the background" or "behind the scenes" playing "second fiddle" without recognition. I thank God for all of the men and women within His church who are not grasping for recognition, who are willing to work quietly in the background. They are happy to serve God for his recognition, not for the recognition of others.
The apostle Paul gives us this instruction from God: For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. ... Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves (Romans 12:3-10).
In other words, we are all equal in God's eyes and we should be happy just knowing that.
Only One is truly worthy of our praise!
Pride is a terrible thing and has proven to be the downfall of many people. The common saying we here is "Pride goes before a fall." This is actually a bible principle. God warns us through the wise writer of Proverbs: "Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18). Pride causes some to view others as less worth, less valuable to God and our world, than they themselves are. Pride causes some to abuse or misuse someone they should cherish as God's creation. Pride causes some to be lost because they won't submit themselves to God. Perhaps some just cannot make themselves serve God without the praise of men.
Only One is truly worthy of our praise, and it surely isn't us!
You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being (Revelation 4:11).
You see, playing second fiddle is not a bad thing. It doesn't become a problem unless we do think of ourselves as being "just a little better" than someone else. We will understand that point if we keep our egos -- our desire to see "I" as being of first importance -- under control. James said it this way: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7).
God and His church need you to be the support and encouragement to others, not the one that gets his or her feelings hurt because you were not recognized (i.e. "They didn't speak to me today"). Are you willing to play second fiddle if that's what it takes to be a blessing to God and His church? It may just take that for your church to have and to produce the harmony God desires.
It may be of interest to know that the word "Ego" originated from the Latin word for "I". This can be understood by listening to the conversation of a person with an "ego problem." You will find that the word "I" is used repeatedly as if they are the center of all there is.
Leonard Bernstein, the celebrated orchestra conductor, was asked, "What is the hardest instrument to play?" He replied without hesitation: "Second fiddle. I can always get plenty of first violinists, but to find one who plays second violin with as much enthusiasm or second French horn or second flute, now that's a problem. And yet if no one plays second, we have no harmony."
How are you at "playing second fiddle"? You see, God's church only functions properly if people work "in the background" or "behind the scenes" playing "second fiddle" without recognition. I thank God for all of the men and women within His church who are not grasping for recognition, who are willing to work quietly in the background. They are happy to serve God for his recognition, not for the recognition of others.
The apostle Paul gives us this instruction from God: For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. ... Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves (Romans 12:3-10).
In other words, we are all equal in God's eyes and we should be happy just knowing that.
Only One is truly worthy of our praise!
Pride is a terrible thing and has proven to be the downfall of many people. The common saying we here is "Pride goes before a fall." This is actually a bible principle. God warns us through the wise writer of Proverbs: "Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18). Pride causes some to view others as less worth, less valuable to God and our world, than they themselves are. Pride causes some to abuse or misuse someone they should cherish as God's creation. Pride causes some to be lost because they won't submit themselves to God. Perhaps some just cannot make themselves serve God without the praise of men.
Only One is truly worthy of our praise, and it surely isn't us!
You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being (Revelation 4:11).
You see, playing second fiddle is not a bad thing. It doesn't become a problem unless we do think of ourselves as being "just a little better" than someone else. We will understand that point if we keep our egos -- our desire to see "I" as being of first importance -- under control. James said it this way: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7).
God and His church need you to be the support and encouragement to others, not the one that gets his or her feelings hurt because you were not recognized (i.e. "They didn't speak to me today"). Are you willing to play second fiddle if that's what it takes to be a blessing to God and His church? It may just take that for your church to have and to produce the harmony God desires.
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