Salt and Light

Click on the scripture reference and read these verses: Matthew 5:13-16

I believe that the Church is the greatest earthly hope that we have in existence. i don't mean buildings, I don't mean the Roman Catholic, or any other, denomination. I am simply referring to the people who have a relationship with Jesus Christ, God's Son, who died on a cross for our sins and came back to life three days later. For me, these are indisputable facts. Maybe science hasn't proven their validity, but neither has it disproven them. Besides, I have first-hand experience with a relationship with Jesus, through my faith and trust in Him, that would hold past any scientific challenge. "A man with an experience is never at the mercy of a man with an argument." (unknown)

Yet just as I believe that the Church is the greatest earthly hope, in that we are the tangible touch of Christ to the world around us as He is living through us, we also have developed some serious flaws through the years since our institution. In the verses we read at the beginning, which are in red and the actual words of Jesus, He calls us salt and light. I have been dwelling on these verses for a while now and want to share with you what I have learned. Though it will be in reverse order from what's listed, I'd first like to look at "light."

We, the Church, are light in this world. Darkness cannot hide from light when in the same room or space. The only way light can be kept from penetrating darkness is to be shut out in some way. Think of a dark room in a basement with no windows and only one door. If the door is sealed well, whatever light is on the outside of the door will never reach the inside of the room. However, open the door, and whatever light is shining just outside will flood the darkness and, depending on its brightness, illumine everything it touches to some degree. Darkness cannot stop it.

The light that is in us is the Light of Jesus Christ. It is the light of truth, justice, mercy, grace, love, forgiveness--all of the traits and characteristics of God; the fruit of the Spirit, if you will. Simply because Jesus, in the form of the Holy Spirit, resides in us, so does His light as even our sin nature cannot hide the glory of God. Darkness is powerless against such light. Just as God is eternal, so is the light of His glory within us. It will never be quenched. Stars that illumine our night skies are seen by the human eye thousands of years after they have been extinguished because of the time it takes for the light to reach the earth from its source. Yet this light, the light of His glory, will never be snuffed out. It is indeed eternal. It reaches past our bracketed existence on this planet.

Light is what we carry to the world. The very source of the light lives in us if we have chosen to believe in the work Jesus did on the cross and in His being who He said He was, the very Son of God. The closer we draw in relationship with Jesus, He also draws nearer to us and that light shines even the brighter. Our dark world needs light. Much of it maybe even craves light. Light is what we bring as the Church. We reflect it much in the same way the moon reflects the sun. When light is reflected, the brightness of the reflected light is dependent on the substance of the reflective material. For example, a white sheet will reflect light, but when foil is used, the reflected light is much brighter than what was elected off the sheet. The brightness of the light we reflect depends on our substance, and our substance depends on the depth of our relationship with Christ.

But just as light is what we bring, salt is how we bring it.

Let's look at just a couple of characteristics of salt. Salt makes things taste better. It seasons. When we sit down at the table, or cook food for others, we often season the food with salt to bring more flavor. Salt also preserves. You can salt meat and preserve it a little longer. However, unlike light, salt is temporary. Eventually, salt can and will lose its flavor.

As the Church, in my personal observation, we more often get the "light" part right than we do the "salt." After all, the light really isn't us, it's Jesus. We don't have to do much for light to come through. But salt? That requires much more effort. When we see evidence around us that "the world is going to hell in a hand basket," as we often put it, we normally get pretty self-righteous and feel the need to defend Jesus and/or our faith. We act surprised at what is going on.

Yet, have you ever noticed that God has never entered a day where He called Gabriel over and told him to go warm up the trumpet because God was surprised by something that a non-believer did the day before? Lost people act lost! God's not surprised by that, so why are we? When there is a Supreme Court decision, an act of terrorism, a school shooting, a video from Planned Parenthood, or some other social ill, we adopt a sudden sense of urgency to do something to stop it. Yet if we really felt that "urgent," we would've been doing something all along, right? But in our sudden urgency, we sit down the salt shaker and pick up the persimmon juice. What we offer to the world, while true, now tastes very bitter and unwelcoming. No wonder it gets rejected so often.

Salt is mined. It is in huge rocks or stones. Larger rocks of salt have their uses, but it looks much different than what we see in shakers on tables. Meat can be laid onto rocks of salt for seasoning or preservation. Unlike what is found in shakers, food must be brought to the salt, not the other way around. For salt to reach the food, it must first be crushed or ground. Could it be that this is true for us, as Christians, as well? Before we can be the most useful, there must be a season of crushing or breaking. It's not that we can't be used without being broken, but we depend on others to come to us. Our sense of urgency may be less. We still season. We still carry light. We just haven't been through a life event that has brought us to the point where we can be poured out before others as a drink offering to them.

Once salt is crushed, unless salt is poured out onto the food, it can't reach it's highest potential of seasoning the food. You can sit a salt shaker on the table. In that way, it can be among the food; it can be a part of the offering at every meal. Yet, until it is poured out, touches the food, covers the food, it cannot season the food. This is why I'm extremely apprehensive about religious freedom laws. It gives us Christians yet another excuse to not be poured out and serve in humility. It allows us to stay in the shaker and even attach a spiritual label to it so that our greed sounds legitimate. Not that everyone would do that, or be that way, but my experience has taught me that many look for just such excuses. It gives a voice that we can use to not be the tangible touch of Christ to someone who may be looking for hope, for light. Why would we ever want to do that?

We trade the seasoning power of salt to offer a "taste and see the Lord is good" opportunity to the world, and try to serve the light we carry in glasses of persimmon juice. For those who have never had persimmon juice, it is extremely bitter and makes the lips pucker. It is a very unpleasant experience. As believers, we hear or see truth and are drawn to it because the Truth lives in our hearts. The world around us is unfamiliar with Truth and that is why we are called to be salt (seasoning those around us in ways that we are pleasing to be around and deliver Truth in palatable ways) and light (also delivering truth that isn't watered down nor wavering). Why is it that we can't do both?

Be light today. Be salt today. Give truth, but only in a way that is pleasing and seasons those who need the truth. That is how we change the world starting with the one beside us.

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What does a "relationship" with Jesus look like?

I'm glad scripture says in Romans 10:9-10 that we only need to declare/confess with our mouth and believe in our heart that God raised Jesus from the dead to be saved. If it had involved a relationship like I have with Him now, I'd have been up a creek without a paddle. Many who have been "saved" (in other words, they have decided to believe by faith that Jesus Christ is indeed the very Son of God, and that His death on the cross and resurrection that followed paid the sin debt of death for them) would say that making that decision is the same as having a relationship with Jesus. While it does, in fact, introduce you to Jesus, and open the door for relationship, you don't automatically just "know" your Savior in all His glory. That would be like jumping from being introduced to the person who will be your spouse, to being married with a family a few seconds later. No relationship works like that. Jesus is no different.

Maybe this disagrees with your theology some, but hang with me. I really believe that we will end up in the same place if you will continue with me here. If you're one of those that has tried to have a relationship with Jesus, or you're just wondering what one looks like, read on too.

The absolute first step in having any relationship, as described above, is being introduced to the person with whom you desire relationship. This happens at the point in your life where you make the decision to follow Jesus by confessing that decision with your mouth, and believing in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead. At that decision crossroads, you change your eternal destination to heaven in the presence of God, forever and ever and ever (per Romans 10:9-10 listed above). But what about the relationship that follows? Let's look.

The Bible speaks primarily in the Old Testament of God audibly speaking to mankind. He used judges and prophets to do this most of the time. It normally wasn't to everyone who said they believed in God. Let me bring you some comfort right now and know that in my relationship with Jesus, I have never audibly heard His voice. You do not need to worry that someone will put you on an episode of Dr. Phil because you are hearing voices inside or outside your head. This is not some spiritually induced schizophrenia.

Growing up in the church, as I did, I used to believe that a relationship with Jesus was dedicated on what I did to instigate it, or to keep it going once it started. The things I thought I had to do was, of course, go to church, serve others, worship, read my Bible, etc. My list of things was probably no different than yours in most ways. I heard the scripture quoted many times, which is true, "come near to God and He will come near to you." (James 4:8) The only things that I could think of to draw near to God were the things in my list. I determined to get busy doing what I thought God would be doing or would want me to do, and surely He would then come near to me. I was wrong.

It wasn't until my life fell apart in 2011 and God started putting me back together again in 2012, that I realized what a relationship with Jesus/God really meant. What does it look like? Not much different than any of m other relationships. Let me explain.

I remember being in the altar in early 2012 and I was extremely broken. I was pouring out my heart to God and asking Him what was going to happen to me. I'd made some terrible choices, gotten involved in sin, and was reaping the benefits of my stupidity. Then in an altar in Texas, not audibly, yet clear as day, I heard the voice of God. It was more of a thought than anything. I knew the thought wasn't mine, though, because it wasn't saying anything to myself that I believed to be either true or possible. God only said, "Let me love you." Here I was crying and blubbering and trying to give Him a list of all the reasons why that couldn't happen. After all, because of what I had done, I viewed myself as unloveable. But love me He did and does.

I have an app on my iPhone called the Bible App. It posts a "Verse of the Day" each night at midnight. I have no way to properly explain it, but I chose to read those verses almost every day, and almost every day each one seemed as though God was speaking directly into my heart. Sometimes, it even got almost to the eerie point because the verse would be so on target. Those verses still say something to me most of the time. I have come to believe that it is simply because I make myself available to hear what God has to say. I tune out the noise of my day, and allow God to speak. There's no magical time of day to do it. Actually, I enjoy keeping the conversation going throughout the whole day.

See, here's the thing. All my lists of things that I thought I needed to do to draw near to God were actually things I was supposed to do because I had already drawn near to God. The list was supposed to be a result of my relationship, not the relationship itself. The lists, the details, the commandments, the rituals, were never intended to be my relationship with God. Yet, I had made them such. But what I've found is that God, the Creator of the universe, desires to sit down and talk with me all the time--daily. The biggest change in my prayer life if that I'm still and quiet long enough for God to talk back. Before, my prayers were my lists to God in response to the lists of things I brought to Him through my actions. It was a very warped way to have a conversation. Now, it's not like that at all.

Through reading those verses, I've learned more of the character of God. I've learned to discern His voice among all the other thoughts in my head. On top of that, I've seen the things He's told me revealed in my life. If not for revelation, I might consider contacting my straight jacket tailor and setting up a fitting. Where at first, most of His communication to me was through the Bible, now it's as much in my thoughts as it is reading scripture. Sometimes He even speaks to me through others who are also Christians and I recognize His voice in their words.

There is indeed a relationship to be had. It is God's wish for all mankind. But now do you see the difference I was speaking about in the first couple of paragraphs? Our confession and belief changes the eternal destination, but it's the relationship that changes the journey getting there. Try it. Make yourself available. It may seem awkward at first, but that's ok. The benefits of your perseverance will be absolutely amazing!

Don't forget to use the social media just below here to share to your Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ accounts directly.  I welcome your comments!  PLEASE leave one!!!  Here's how:
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My Answer: How involved/uninvolved should grassroots Christians and Christian leaders be in politics?

Opening paragraph is at the beginning of every "My Answer" blog:

Growing up as the son of a preacher, I was never further than a question to my parents, as well as a variety of other Godly influences, from what I thought I was supposed to believe about any spiritual matter. But as time passed, I studied God's word for myself and was challenged by all of them to do so. On some questions, my personal study only reinforced what I'd heard as a child. On others, I found that I differed somewhat from what I'd been taught along the way and that my understanding of scripture lead me to a few different places. (I'm not going to tell you whether my parents and I disagree on any of these questions. If you want to know that, you've TOTALLY missed the reason for the blog series or the challenge to you behind it!) I read 1 Peter 3:15, which says, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..." I felt that this directive was calling me farther past just my hope of salvation, but about anything for which I felt a conviction within my faith. So I posted a series of questions on Facebook recently, challenging Christians to not debate issues, but to search for the WHY behind their convictions to these answers. I purposefully never posted my answers till now. This blog is not THE answer. It is MY answer according to my personal Bible study. I challenge you to find yours.

For me, when I posted this question on Facebook, I honestly did not have a WHY for me on any "side" of this question. As an American, I believe in the rights granted to us by the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other governing documents. I am of the opinion that we have gotten some things terribly wrong in our interpretation of those documents.

An example of bed interpretation would be the "Separation of Church and State." Most Americans do not know or realize that this "right" is NEVER MENTIONED in ANY governing document! Here is what the First Amendment actually says: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."

The phrase "Separation of Church and State" comes from a letter by a man named Jefferson that was cited by the Supreme Court and was originally used and intended to keep Christian principles a part of American government. For more information about this letter and the origin of the phrase, I would strongly encourage you to take a moment and read the article found by clicking here.

One must also remember their history lessons from school. One of the things England did that drove our founding fathers crazy was the imposition of the Church of England! There was only one denomination that was allowed and it was controlled by the English government. So the free exercise of religion was taken away. The founding fathers left and came here to escape this among many other things. So when they sat down to write our first documents, these things were still fresh in the minds of the authors, thus included in the documents. Given this information, I HAVE to come to the conclusion that the original intent of the founding fathers was to keep the government out of the church, not the church out of the government!

I've found, however, that any organization's greatest strength is also it's greatest weakness. Our strength is our freedom. We fight and die for it, and live it out with every passing day. But we see that enemies, including our main adversary the devil, conjures ways to expose and pervert that strength away from its original intent. It's a "what's good for the goose is good for the gander" problem. If Christians have those freedoms, then by using the governing documents alone to define our freedoms, so does every other religion. That can be a problem when it comes to such "religions" as ISIS.

My personal weakness in recent election seasons has been magnified on social media. And I've noticed that I'm not the only one. There is a need in us as Christians to jump on the defensive when we feel that Christ is being threatened. It's natural. The disciple, Peter, felt the same urge when he drew his sword and cut off the ear of the Roman soldier as he was about to arrest Jesus. But just as Peter was admonished for his actions by Jesus, so I think I would be...and you would too if you've spoken out as I have in the past.

In order to arrive at where I believe the truth lies to this question, let's first start with what scripture says in a couple of places regarding our reaction to and role in our government as believers:

"1Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. 2So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. 3For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. 4The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. 5So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. 6Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority." Romans 13:1-7 NLT

The way that I read this passage tells me that whoever is in authority, whoever is President, is instituted by God. Even those who are "men of God?" Yup. Remember Saul? He was Israel's first king. Rebellious to the core, lazy, insecure, attempted to murder David out of jealous anger more times than I can count, was basically not someone would not want to be your mentor in the area of Godliness. Yet he was ordained of God. Even David, the man who was the target of Saul's jealous anger, admonished his men when David returned with a piece of Saul's garment in a very crappy cave. :-)

Our submission to authority does not lie on the person, but in the office. Don't get mad at me! I didn't say it, God did. Let's look further.

"1I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 2Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity." I Timothy 2:1-2 NLT

God tells us here to pray for those who are in authority. And God threw in that pesky little word, "all." That means that our prayers are not to be slanted one way toward some, and another way toward others, but that we should pray the same for all. He even says to "give thanks." Oh no. Really? That's a hard one, especially in today's economy and leadership. (Just keeping it real here, people.)

And finally...

"Respect everyone, and love the family of believers. Fear God, and respect the king." 1 Peter 2:17 NLT

Notice that Paul did not get instruction from God to add the words "as long as he's a godly king or a Republican. Though someone from the Tea Party might could squeeze by too. Just leave those Democrats alone!" God didn't tell Paul to add that. He just said, "respect the king." You may not agree with what I'm saying to you, I'm just telling you what the Bible says. You can do with that what you will. Just know that what you post on Facebook and other social media is a reflection of what's in your heart. So when I and others read it, we see where your heart is in regard to following the guidelines laid out in scripture. NOT ONE TIME does scripture say we have to AGREE with our king! But it DOES say we have to respect him and pray for him. Why? Look again at 1 Timothy 2, "...so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity."

I've not found one place in scripture where it says anything against Christians taking an active role in political matters. But if we do, the roles should be taken with the guidelines expressed here and not vindictiveness, anger, vengeful hearts, fear, or malice toward anyone. Notice I included "fear." If God is in control, who have we to fear? No one. Not Al Qaeda, ISIS, or anyone else. Government is a God-instituted entity. It is ordained by Him. And we must honor God by respecting that entity and its authority over us.

My opinion is that our country has indeed gone away from God. Do I like it? ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! But our role as Christians is ill focused. We rant and we rave about the President and how Godliness is gone from America and its government. We do this blindly thinking that a Godly person in the White House will get us back on the right track. Yet everywhere in scripture, I see God telling us to honor those in authority over us. He knew there would be those in authority over us who would not honor Him. Again, remember Saul? But with all my heart I believe that God Almighty is MUCH more interested with who is God in OUR HOUSE than who is God in the WHITE HOUSE!

If we get OUR HOUSE right, the WHITE HOUSE takes care of itself. That's the way God taught us to handle things in scripture. Get YOUR heart right, YOUR house in order, YOUR priorities straight, and He will take care of the rest. We have a history of thinking we have a better plan than God. But He laid out the plan long ago: "Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT. So why do we keep aiming at the government when the fault is our own? We didn't do what God asked to have the result we say we want. It's an obedience issue. A heart issue. Not a President issue.

In my book that will be released before too long (hopefully), I talk about the fact that Christians have begun using the Bible as a window more than a mirror. Sure, we are to be fruit inspectors of others, but when we focus on the fruit more than the reflection, we have become judges rather than inspectors. And at that point, we are way out of line!

My Answer: Is it ok for a Christian to be cremated?

Opening paragraph is at the beginning of every "My Answer" blog:

Growing up as the son of a preacher, I was never further than a question to my parents, as well as a variety of other Godly influences, from what I thought I was supposed to believe about any spiritual matter. But as time passed, I studied God's word for myself and was challenged by all of them to do so. On some questions, my personal study only reinforced what I'd heard as a child. On others, I found that I differed somewhat from what I'd been taught along the way and that my understanding of scripture lead me to a few different places. (I'm not going to tell you whether my parents and I disagree on any of these questions. If you want to know that, you've TOTALLY missed the reason for the blog series or the challenge to you behind it!) I read 1 Peter 3:15, which says, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..." I felt that this directive was calling me farther past just my hope of salvation, but about anything for which I felt a conviction within my faith. So I posted a series of questions on Facebook recently, challenging Christians to not debate issues, but to search for the WHY behind their convictions to these answers. I purposefully never posted my answers till now. This blog is not THE answer. It is MY answer according to my personal Bible study. I challenge you to find yours.

Again, as in before questions, does this act go against what is taught in scripture? As I look through scripture, I can find no mention of cremation. But neither can I find any mention of instruction on "acceptable burial practices" of any kind where Christians are concerned! There is no mention whatsoever about curses or punishment of any kind in regard to burial practices. There are people in scripture who were burned to death as a punishment for some act while living. But the act of burning carried no distinction in and of itself as to any eternal meaning at all.

Scripture tells us that one day the graves will burst open and give up their dead and that those of us who are Christians will have a new "resurrected body" that will be glorified in nature. Granted, in our minds, putting a body back together again seems much easier when there are identifiable pieces - much like putting a puzzle together. In our minds it may be impossible for a body to come back together and come out of a grave when it is only dust, especially if it was scattered from a mountain top or poured into a river. But do we really think that gathering every single minute particle of dust is too difficult for the God who spoke the world into existence? I can't put the God I serve in that small of a box.

People have lost their lives to fire down through the ages. Just this week, here in Nashville, a poor tanker driver, for reasons unknown, swerved in the middle of the night and hit a bridge with a tanker full of unleaded gasoline. The tanker exploded and the driver was killed. The fire burned so hot that it melted some of the steel in the bridge that passed overhead. Think back to 9/11. The plane that went down in Pennsylvania was practically pulverized with the lives of innocent people - heroes - on board. When events like this happen, are these people, if they are Christians, simply out of luck because their bodies were burned into ash at death? I can't make sense out of a theology that would say that when scripture says clearly that "nothing can separate us" from the love of Jesus. So as to the first analysis question, I would have to arrive at the answer being: No. There is no evidence that cremation goes against anything in scripture.

So what about it being the wise thing to do? Though sentimental reasons do exist and people want their ashes spread over certain areas or kept in an urn in a home or special place, the most frequent answer given when asked why someone would choose cremation is the fact that being cremated is much cheaper than a full burial. So if a family isn't prepared with resources to pay for a full burial, then cremation for them would indeed be the wiser choice, in my opinion. If resources are available for both, then it comes down to just personal preference.

Based on my own conviction for the reasons listed above, I see nothing wrong with a Christian choosing to be cremated after death, or for that decision to be made by authoritative legal parties for the deceased.

My Answer: Is it ok for a Christian to get a tattoo?

Opening paragraph is at the beginning of every "My Answer" blog:

Growing up as the son of a preacher, I was never further than a question to my parents, as well as a variety of other Godly influences, from what I thought I was supposed to believe about any spiritual matter. But as time passed, I studied God's word for myself and was challenged by all of them to do so. On some questions, my personal study only reinforced what I'd heard as a child. On others, I found that I differed somewhat from what I'd been taught along the way and that my understanding of scripture lead me to a few different places. (I'm not going to tell you whether my parents and I disagree on any of these questions. If you want to know that, you've TOTALLY missed the reason for the blog series or the challenge to you behind it!) I read 1 Peter 3:15, which says, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..." I felt that this directive was calling me farther past just my hope of salvation, but about anything for which I felt a conviction within my faith. So I posted a series of questions on Facebook recently, challenging Christians to not debate issues, but to search for the WHY behind their convictions to these answers. I purposefully never posted my answers till now. This blog is not THE answer. It is MY answer according to my personal Bible study. I challenge you to find yours.

I must say that I was VERY surprised when I posted this question! There were some very hard feelings on both sides of this issue! After the subject of a Christian drinking alcohol, I thought I would ask a relatively light question in theme. But there was nothing "light" about the responses that I read from those who answered. As a matter of fact, it was BY FAR the most debated topic of any question asked. Following this posted question, I actually had to list "NO DEBATING" as a "rule" for responding to the posts. Some didn't like that. That's fine with me. You have your own Facebook page and you can post anything you want. :-)

This also became the one exception when I actually posted an answer to my own question on my Facebook page. That was never my intention to do. However, given the heated discussion that had occurred, I felt that I needed to weigh in. I'm still not sure if that was the best thing to do, but it's what I did. What follows is the skeleton of the way I responded with a few added thoughts.

So here's my take on the whole tattoo thing. The only time I can find in scripture where tattoos are actually mentioned is here: Leviticus 19:28. Please understand that I am NOT one of those guys who claim that the Old Testament of the Bible is no longer valid because we are under grace now and not the old law. While there are parts of the old law that have gone the way of the Dodo Bird, there are still parts that are valid today. Let me explain briefly.

There are three different types of law in our Old Testament canon that we use today. They are Cultural Law, Ceremonial Law, and Moral Law. Cultural and Ceremonial Laws are indeed no longer valid. Moral Law is still very much valid and is alive and well today. It transcends the Old and New Testaments. The Moral Law states that death is the only payment for sin. When Jesus died on the cross, He became that death payment for our sin: past, present, and future. By fulfilling the debt requirement for our sin, Jesus said, "I haven't come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it." Moral Law still stands! It is the standard by which our actions are measured. It, along with the conviction of the Holy Spirit, is the main way that we know when we are in dangerous proximity to, or have committed a sin. And there was no angry God in the OT and a loving God in the NT. He says in Malachi 3, "I am the Lord, I do not change."

This passage in Leviticus is a part of Ceremonial or Cultural Law, not Moral. If you read the verses surrounding 28, you will see that in those days, tattoos were given to worshipers of pagan gods. Back then, they marked to which god they were loyal and gave them a form of identity in that regard. Today, that's not always the case. And besides, if we are going to use this verse, then that makes the verse about men shaving just as valid an issue with God! If you shaved today, guys, you're in trouble! Or look a few verses down where it talks about lying in reference to weight and measures. Some of us would be in BIG TIME trouble on Facebook lying about weight! No, this is not a valid argument, in my opinion, for not having a tattoo. It's fine to not like them! But don't start throwing God into the mix by making Him say something He didn't say by using verses out of context.

Next question deals with cremation. Later, guys.

My Answer: Is it ok for a Christian to drink alcohol?

Opening paragraph is at the beginning of every "My Answer" blog:

Growing up as the son of a preacher, I was never further than a question to my parents, as well as a variety of other Godly influences, from what I thought I was supposed to believe about any spiritual matter. But as time passed, I studied God's word for myself and was challenged by all of them to do so. On some questions, my personal study only reinforced what I'd heard as a child. On others, I found that I differed somewhat from what I'd been taught along the way and that my understanding of scripture lead me to a few different places. (I'm not going to tell you whether my parents and I disagree on any of these questions. If you want to know that, you've TOTALLY missed the reason for the blog series or the challenge to you behind it!) I read 1 Peter 3:15, which says, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..." I felt that this directive was calling me farther past just my hope of salvation, but about anything for which I felt a conviction within my faith. So I posted a series of questions on Facebook recently, challenging Christians to not debate issues, but to search for the WHY behind their convictions to these answers. I purposefully never posted my answers till now. This blog is not THE answer. It is MY answer according to my personal Bible study. I challenge you to find yours.

The first question you need to ask yourself really isn't the one posted in the title. The first question you need to ask is, "WHY am I asking this question?" When my parents told me not to go touch or do something, there'd be times I would get as close as I could to doing it, but not! Now my parents didn't let me get away with that kind of thing hardly ever, but many of you reading this, if you were told not to touch something, you'd put your finger so close to it that you couldn't wedge a frog's hair between your finger and the object, BUT YOU WOULDN'T BE TOUCHING IT! Right?

We Christians are the same way. We know we're not supposed to sin, but we want to know just how close we can get to sin and not cross that line in the sand. We think we can sneak up on sin and get our thrill fix before we call it a day. I've been there. I feel ya! But then asking the question from the title COULD (not does) show a heart issue where you want to tap into your inner "bad boy" and get it out. That issue needs to be resolved prior to this one. That's an integrity/character issue that you need to be honest with God about and move past before ever dealing with this question.

I stated yesterday that I run everything through two filters: scripture & wisdom. We'll get to the scripture part in a moment. But as for wisdom, let me say that if there has ever been a time in your life when you have abused alcohol, then this answer is a DEFINITIVE NO! There is no circumstance where you should put your health, testimony, your life on the line for a sip of an alcoholic beverage. Remember the question: "In light of my past failures, my present circumstances, and my future hopes and dreams, is this the wise thing to do?" For you sir/ma'am, the answer is no.

Godly Christians are on both sides of this issue. I must say that I even disagree with my father, whom I love and respect dearly, on this issue. The important thing to remember is that on whichever side you choose to come down, there are those who are to be just as respected and and acknowledged that their relationship with Jesus is just as valid as yours.

Now to the question at hand. Wine is mentioned throughout the Bible. I'm not going to list all the verses for you. That would be something that, at some point, you need to do for yourself. That was the whole purpose behind the Facebook exercise to begin with. From Noah getting drunk in Genesis 9, all the way throughout scripture, wine makes occasional appearances. The first recorded miracle of Jesus, Himself, was when He turned the water into wine at the wedding.

I've heard people say that they've researched the original Greek and Hebrew words and that wine, as it is referenced many times in scripture including the wedding miracle, was not wine as we know it today. That according to the original languages, it was three parts water and one part grape juice. Ok. Continuing, those on that side of the argument will say that different Greek or Hebrew words are used when referencing wine at other parts of the Bible when it admonishes us about getting drunk with wine. Again, ok. I can see how you've arrived at your conclusion.

My only issue is that no matter if it was three parts water or just one whole part wine, the Bible says we can get drunk off of it. There is no getting drunk without alcohol in the mix. There's getting FAT from too much grape juice! There's getting a bad case of the runs (diarrhea for you northern folk), but there's no getting drunk without alcohol.

And what about the wine at the wedding? Again, I have to reference scripture for this one. Those in attendance claimed that the wine, that up until seconds ago had been water, was the best wine. See, normally hosts would serve the best wine up front. Why? Because once people get alcohol moving through their system, not only does the band sound better, but the wine tastes better too! That's why I believe, and my conviction remains, that the wine that resulted from Jesus' wedding miracle was fermented. People who were drunk and shouldn't know any better said that it was the best. At that point, grape Kool-Aid would have tasted fermented to them. But they could distinguish this as the best.

What about the stumbling bock verse? Again, if we're going to cite that verse as the foundation for our convictions, in my opinion, we need to push away the Carnegie Deli Cheesecake, my dad's banana pudding, or the peach cobbler. Not that these things within themselves are bad, but sometimes the waistline gives evidence of possible gluttony in one's life. One is just as serious as the other. You can run the gamut with things that could be equally a stumbling block: speeding, movies, tv (soap operas?), gambling, you name it.

And know this. I've had an uncle that was a severe alcoholic. He chased my grandmother through her home with a baseball bat one time. He was beaten close to death and left naked in the snow. I've heard the stories and know well the potential. Yes, alcoholism can be dangerous! That is why I said above that if you've shown any form of addictive tendencies toward alcohol, your answer is always NO!

But for the rest of us, if we're going to look at it for its possible troubles it could cause, does that mean we need to cut out sex too? Over 50% of marriages end in divorce with many of them due to infidelity. We have teenage pregnancies, abortions, STD's, pornography, human sex trafficking. So do we say that we can't have sex due to the damage it can cause? Of course not! The issue is what our enemy has done in perverting a God-given gift into something twisted and sick.

My interpretation of scripture and my conviction tells me that scripture (except in cases of addiction stated above) does not speak against the consumption of alcohol, but rather the abuse of it and getting drunk from it. Drunkenness is against scripture. But I cannot arrive at total abstinence.

My Answer: Is it acceptable for a Christian to smoke?

I purposefully didn't answer. When I posted the following question on Facebook last week, I wanted those answering to search their own hearts, Bibles, convictions and know their own answer if ever asked why they believe the way they do. In my own past, when questions have been asked about why I believe certain things, I've been guilty of being silent until the pastor or teacher proclaimed his/her belief and gave us what must have been the "right answer." For years I formed my beliefs this way. I'm not proud of that.

    Growing up as the son of a preacher, I was never further than a question to my parents, as well as a variety of other Godly influences, from what I thought I was supposed to believe about any spiritual matter. But as time passed, I studied God's word for myself and was challenged by all of them to do so. On some questions, my personal study only reinforced what I'd heard as a child. On others, I found that I differed somewhat from what I'd been taught along the way and that my understanding of scripture lead me to a few different places. (I'm not going to tell you whether my parents and I disagree on any of these questions. If you want to know that, you've TOTALLY missed the reason for the blog series or the challenge to you behind it!) I read 1 Peter 3:15, which says, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..." I felt that this directive was calling me farther past just my hope of salvation, but about anything for which I felt a conviction within my faith. This blog is not THE answer. It is MY answer according to my personal Bible study. I challenge you to find yours.

With that in mind, last week I began posting one question per day that, as of the writing of this blog, many Christians are asking. There are some things that make eternal differences (i.e. Jesus is the Son of God, Jesus died on a cross and was raised to life three days later, etc.). These questions fall of lesser weight, but are debated as not being very clear cut in scripture. By far, the majority of Christians have stances on these things, however. And there are wonderful God-fearing people of God on both sides of every question. So I wanted to know if they got their stance from their pastors and teachers, or if they'd actually studied on their own and developed their own conclusions. I saved my answers for here.

My plan is to answer one question per day until all seven are complete. If I listed all seven answers in blog, it would be really LOOONG! We may differ in our opinions or convictions. That's ok with me as long as it is you. I won't be debating with you. You can share with me below if you want to say that you disagree with me...as long as you also put the WHY! :-)

1. Is it acceptable for a Christian to smoke?

There are basically two questions I ask myself first when approaching any question like this. The same process will be followed in developing my answers to the following questions. 

1. Is the action against what is taught in scripture?
2. Is the action wise for me to do?

The first question speaks for itself. The second comes from a book by Pastor Andy Stanley, The Best Question Ever. He bases the book off of Ephesians 5:15 and gives three "filters." The resulting question is: "In light of my past failures, my present circumstances, and my future hopes and dreams, what is the wise thing to do?"

Is smoking against what is taught in scripture? There are no references to smoking in scripture. Now many have used the argument of the fact that the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). I get that! I do! But the exact same argument could be made about eating Twinkies. As a matter of fact, every scriptural argument I've ever heard on this subject could just as easily be used for gluttony! Choose any verse you want. This is not the only one I've heard used on this issue. But Christians don't talk about gluttony, do we? "Food doesn't smell as bad as cigarettes and besides, we use food for fellowship. We don't use them cigarettes for fellowship Bro. Kevin." And what about the cancer the cigarettes cause? Valid point. But if you do the math, you'll find that exponentially more people die every year from issues related to overeating than ever do from lung cancer. If you're going to use the "temple" verses, that's fine with me. An argument can be made. But don't try to make the argument if you don't have a problem eating the extra cookie before bed.

Is it wise? The same answer would be given to this as to the previous question. Is it wise to have half the pan of brownies your wife cooked just so you can eat them while they're hot? Probably not. But in this case, over indulgence becomes the key factor. What if all you do is have a cigar with the guys only once in a while? I don't see the problem here. If it becomes an issue where it is becoming addictive, then there's a problem. But if not, I wouldn't tell you not to eat just because you might one day eat too much. That's just my opinion.

But if you overindulge in anything that brings damage to your body (smoking, gluttony, drug use, etc.), in my opinion, according to scripture, you (we) are in a sinful act. My point here is not so much to say that smoking isn't a sin as much as to say that we shouldn't point the finger at someone else just because their sin is different from ours.

4 Lessons I Learned in 2013 That You Need to Learn Too

2013 brought so many things, and almost all of it good!!!  I could tell you story after story of the way God showed His mighty awesomeness in our lives over the last 12-18 months!  But there are two things wrong with that scenario.  First, I'm really wanting to concentrate on the year that is, as I type this, in its fading moments.  Second, the LAST thing I want is for this blog to have the tone of a bad Christmas letter!

So instead of reliving moments in my life that have nothing to do with you, my reader, I want to instead leave you with some life lessons that I've learned (or RElearned) that I hope will make a lasting difference in your lives as well.  I honestly don't know that I could create an exhaustive list, but I'm going to pray and ask God to remind me of the ones that need to be included here.  He knows who will be reading this and what all of you need to hear most.

1.  God adores us.  My friend, Debby Berry, says this all the time.  Two years ago, because of decisions I had made personally, I called Debby.  At the time, I would've said it was coincidence.  From what I know now, it was a Divine appointment!  She was the first person who drilled that into my head.  I'd never heard it put that way before.  A few months later, I remember laying in the altar of Gateway Church in Texas and God speaking to me so clearly saying, "You just need to let me love on you.  Cast every worry on me.  Nothing matters except that you let me love you."  Since those conversations, I now wake up knowing that my Father in heaven ADORES me!!!  Not for what I've done, mind you!  That would disappoint even the holders of low standards!  But because He made me, died for me, and still sees in me what He made me to be and knows my potential for His kingdom.  And the same is true for YOU!  Say it with me, "God adores me."  Feels good, huh?  Thanks, Debby, for that simple, yet life-changing lesson.

2.  We don't deserve to be happy.  Now before my fan mail starts crashing this server, hear me out.  See, I tried that.  Here's what I found.  Happiness can be achieved only for fleeting moments at a time.  It is not a sustainable state.  But humanity gives a daily valiant effort at making it such and trying to convince the world that it's possible!  Ok.  So, I challenge you.  Name ONE person that has sustained happiness.  Not asking for a top ten list, not even three.  Just one.  Singular.  YOU CAN'T!  Because nobody has!!!  Most people have for a time, but then it fades away like morning dew.  Scripture tells us that we will face trials.  Ever known anyone to jump up and scream, "YAY!!! Another TRIAL!!!!  I'm so happy life tests me like this.  BRING IT!!!"  Me either.  Not being serious, anyway.  God was guaranteeing times of unhappiness.  He knew they would come with frequency.  He wants two things for us: joy & contentment.  The first is from Him through Jesus.  That kind of joy is sustainable.  The second comes from experiencing the joy of knowing Christ.  And when you add them together, you know what results?  Happiness.  Again, not sustained.  But certainly more common and longer lasting than any we would hope to find in our own pursuits.  So seek Jesus first.  Then rest in the contentment that He brings.  There, you will find the happiness you seek.

3.  The importance of your spouse choice.  Married people, don't cut me off here!  I have come to realize full well that I love Michelle, my wife, more than the day I married her.  Now there are a LOT of reasons why that this blog has no hope of provision for naming, but that's not the point.  Whether you're dating or married, distractions happen.  Distractions hinder the decision making process.  Focus is key.  Keep your eyes where they should be, and everything else will follow suit.  Feel me?  When distractions come, be strong in your resolve.  Have accountability in your life of some sort.  There is no wake up call that will hit you as hard as realizing too late that you made a mistake you can't take back.  Nobody's perfect.  I get that.  But you have no idea the power of the devil where this is concerned, and you'd be wise to wise up!  Pray over who you date AND who you marry.  And NEVER STOP!!!

4.  Speak truth into your life out loud daily!!!  I grew up Southern Baptist.  This is not something we did or that I was ever taught in Sunday School growing up.  And I'm not talking about "prosperity gospel," at least what I always heard that phrase meant anyway.  I'm not telling you to start claiming a Mercedes Benz and expect it in your driveway!  But I am saying that we speak ourselves into the situations in which we find ourselves.  My Pastor, Danny Chambers, said, "Who you are is who you've been saying you are for the last two years."  I believe that.  I've heard believers in Jesus say, "I can't...   I won't...   God didn't...."  They'll talk about being a "realist" about their lives and situations.  They've forgotten whose they are!  I have a list of statements hanging on my bathroom mirror that Jamie Brandenburg, a buddy of mine here in Nashville, gave me.  All of them are based on scripture and are just statements about who we are in Christ.  I wrote them in a recent blog for you to be able to have and use.  You can see them by clicking here.  Go and print then off.  Tweak them if you want.  Add, subtract, it's your life you're speaking truth into.  Make it your own!  But you will see HUGE results if you do!!!  I'm giving you personal testimony to that fact!!!  Life is all about perspective, and saying things like this out loud daily helps keep a right perspective in our lives.  Another quote by Pastor Danny says, "The Israelites looked at Goliath and said, 'He's so big we can't KILL him!'  David looked at Goliath and said, 'He's so big I can't MISS him!'"  It's all in perspective.

As I said early on, this isn't an exhaustive list.  I think 4 is doable for anyone in any situation.  Most of you will think that this was a nice blog and just close it.  No, I'm not going to ask you to do a chain letter!  I just want you to experience all God has for you.  Just USE what Ive given you!  If it doesn't work, I give you permission to call me a liar.  But if it does, and I truly believe it will, then you can share it at your discretion.  And no, your love of Jesus won't be affected if you don't! :-)  I'm greatly annoyed by those emails and posts!

I welcome your comments!  PLEASE click on the words "No Comment" or "Comment" (whichever is listed just to the right of the posting time directly below this paragraph) and post a comment of your own.  You must also choose a profile from the drop down list, or just choose "anonymous" from the list and type your name at the end of your comment in the actual comment box.  Clicking the PUBLISH button posts your comment and you're good to go!  Use the social media links there to share to your Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ accounts directly.  THANK YOU for stopping by!  Till next time...

Phil Robertson & WWJS

The reason that people have their panties in a wad over this Phil Robertson thing is simply because the majority of humanity can accept the idea of a heaven where good people go who have lived good lives, but also lean toward rejecting the thought of an "eternal torment" place called hell.  I happen to believe fully in both because the Bible teaches this truth.  But for those who do believe in a hell, the begging question is how to avoid it.

Because of our laws, our views on karma, our reward systems, and every other part of culture, the logical accepted way to get into heaven is to be a "good person."  If we've done enough right, and it outweighs our list of wrongs, then we must be going to heaven.  Only "bad people" go to hell.  But if THAT'S true, then the question begs, "How good is good ENOUGH?"  "Good" to one may not be "good" to another.  Hitler was someone's son. They may not have viewed him as evil, though the rest of us probably would.

So is it then a majority vote?  If so, who casts the ballots?  In the eyes of gay & lesbian groups, they have viewed Phil Robertson's quote as a "ballot" cast against them.  Many gays & lesbians believe in heaven, God, and a moral code and attend churches weekly.  So they are wondering how DARE someone cast that ballot against their ability to get into heaven?!?

But here's the truth that I know...that Phil Robertson knows, I believe.  There isn't ONE of us worthy to cast a ballot, nor make a determination on what must be right and wrong, or dub someone "good enough" for heaven.  THAT responsibility is God's and His alone!  So if we don't determine who is or isn't good, and God does, then how does this standard leave His mouth to reach our ears so that we're not just left guessing?  That would be the Bible. But the problem there is that NOBODY is good enough to live up to the standard set by this book!  God knew that too.  He didn't send a list of right and wrongs that He knew we couldn't uphold to simply laugh at us and scoff because of our failure at righteousness, tho.  There was a plan.  One that would pay the death sentence that is the ONLY payment for sin and satisfy the law that He, Himself, instituted.  And that's why He sent Jesus.  What we deserve, hell: eternal death and punishment, because of all the things HE listed as wrong in scripture (yes, homosexuality is one of those things along with lying, cheating, murder, adultery, coveting, putting anyone or anything as a priority in our lives over God, etc., etc.) was trumped by God's love for humanity in the death of Jesus Christ and is granted to ALL through an acceptance of this gift.  It goes against everything we trust in in our merit based sociological systems, I know.  But that's grace.

Phil didn't just come up with what he said. God did. Robertson may have stated it a little harshly, maybe. But it doesn't negate the truth of it. Nor the grace, love, and mercy God offers those who are caught up in ANY of the "sins" listed in scripture. I've not been a participant in that particular one (homosexuality), but there are certainly others that I have been.  And what I deserve is no different whatsoever from anyone else.  NONE of us are perfect!  We are all sinners saved only by God's grace.  We (including Phil) are ALL deserving of hell.  None "good enough" to make it into heaven on the merit of our own spiritual report cards. Those of us who are assured that heaven will be our eternal home are only confident of that hope because we have accepted the gift of Jesus' death on the cross.  We have no room for pointing fingers.  Grace just changed everything.

So, WWJ...um...S: What Would Jesus Say?  Let me be very clear, do NOT lump me in the crowd that looks at the Robertson issue with A&E and yells, "Christians need to stand up for what's right!"  If we talk double standards, yes, I believe there is one in this nation on free speech when it comes to Christian beliefs and morals. But I don't believe that it is a battle won in the media, Facebook, pulpits, or especially the White House! This may shock some of you, but I don't think that's what's needed here!!! I don't think that would be advised by our Savior either.

I can here the collective, "HUH?!?" What would Jesus say?  Well, let's see.  I believe He's already said it. Fellow believers, people who choose not to follow Christ will not act as though they are Bible thumping believers and neither should they be EXPECTED to!!!  Jesus said it on the cross, remember?  "Father, forgive them. THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY'RE DOING!" (emphasis mine)  (Click here to read it for yourself.)  How dare we argue something with the very people to whom we are trying to extend hope?!? That makes NO sense! Phil was asked a question.  He answered it.  Do I think he's being treated fairly?  No.  But he is not the first and will not be the last.  So do we sit by and do nothing?!?  Absolutely not.  "Then what do we do?" you ask.  I'm so glad you did.  But let's start with what NOT to do from the words of scripture, the same source from which Phil drew his deductions shared with GQ.

Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God’s presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them. 2 Timothy 2:14 (NLT)

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1 (NLT)

Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19 (NLT)

Let's stop acting like spoiled brats and saying we gotta stand up for Jesus!  Jesus can handle His own!  He's waiting on us to stand up for the broken, the sick, the hurting, the needy, the hungry, the tired, the confused, the addicted, THAT'S who we need to stand up for!  THAT'S who Jesus gave His life for!!!  You can't make the change you want when you do it top down. Jesus knew that.  That's why He never instructed us to "love thy President, Mayor, Governor, Congressman, King, Pastor, Elder or otherwise."  He said, "love thy neighbor."  Right before Jesus' ascension, He gave the instructions to start with those closest to them geographically and work outward from there!  Click on this scripture reference and read Acts 1:8 (NLT).  This was God's plan all along!  Christians have been acting like we can save God time by forgetting our neighbor and trying for the big fish!  That's never worked!  So what can we do that WILL make a difference?

“The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. 30And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ 31The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” Mark 12:29-31 (NLT)

You know that guy standing on the exit ramp begging for a dollar?  Stop, get out, and give him $5 and pray for him while you're there.  "But he might be running a scam!"  Click on the scripture reference and look back at Romans 12:19.  That's not your call or your problem.  You know the single Mom who checks you out at the grocery store or serves you in your favorite restaurant?  Cook her a meal to feed her family because when she gets home, she's probably too tired and would enjoy a night to concentrate on her kids.  You know the college students in your town that may be staying over Christmas because they can't afford to go home?  Buy one of them a gift and invite them to your home to spend it with your family.  Give your sales clerk a friendly smile and understand that they are just as stressed as you and that their day would be better if they could make yours better as well.  Pay for the person's coffee behind you at Starbucks just because.  Give toys to a family in your community who you know needs them.  Act like you're a child of God and that you believe what you claim!  Watch your attitude.  If you know Jesus, all of the fruit of the Spirit (click the underlined part to read the list) are in you and at your disposal.  LIVE IT!!!  Be hope.  Be grace.  Be mercy.  Be the Church.  Be Jesus.  Err on the side of grace.  Love the unloveable.  Forgive the unforgivable.  Don't think you can do that?  That's exactly what Jesus did for you!  Who do we blame for the mess the world is in?  Go look in the mirror!  No, you didn't do it alone.  Neither did I.  At some point the collective Church forgot her mission and her call to obedience.  We devised our own plan and thought we could do better.  We didn't.  We can't.  Get back to basics.  Love because your are loved.  Serve because you have been served.  Give because you have been given to.  And one by one by one by one, we will see the change we seek in our communities, our nation, and our world.

I welcome your comments!  PLEASE click on the words "No Comment" or "Comment" (whichever is listed just to the right of the posting time directly below this paragraph) and post a comment of your own.  You must also choose a profile from the drop down list, or just choose "anonymous" from the list and type your name at the end of your comment in the actual comment box.  Clicking the PUBLISH button posts your comment and you're good to go!  Use the social media links there to share to your Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ accounts directly.  THANK YOU for stopping by!  Till next time...

Overcoming - A Lame Lesson

Click on the scripture reference and read Luke 5:17-26 (NLT).

If you're like me, you've read this passage or heard it used in sermons or Bible lessons many times.  If you're new to the story, this is probably a "wow" moment for you to read of how a paralyzed man suddenly got up and walked away!  With which ever group you find yourself aligned, the healing power of Jesus was on great display.

Healing is such a needed thing in our world today.  People find themselves in need of healing from many varieties of circumstances.  While physical healing may be the most common thought, emotions, attitudes, finances, marriages, relationships, anxieties, and worries could also be among the much longer list of life conditions in which healing is sought.  There are many lessons that we can take away from this story, but there are only a few that I want to discuss in this particular blog, just simply because these are the things that God has been teaching me in recent days, not because they are the most important.

We could talk about the faith of the friends who brought this young man to Jesus.  We could also discuss the fact that the religious leaders were so busy judging the actions of the Son of God, that they became part of the problem of the friends being able to even get him to Jesus.  (How I could go expound on this point!!!  Religious people block the healing of others because of their pious attitudes all the time and it gives me a pain I can't locate!!!  We're so busy gossiping about the Pastor, talking about others, acting un-Christ-like, and ruining our testimonies among people who are seeking hope, that we contaminate the healing power of Christ in the eyes of those who desperately need Him!  But I digress.)

I want us first to pay attention to Jesus' first action regarding this young man.  Click here and read it again.  Jesus is the Son of God.  He is God in human form.  He knew the minds of the friends who brought this young man to Jesus.  He knew their intent.  He knew that the whole reason they went to all that trouble was to see their friend healed and their faith made sight.  So when the first words Jesus spoke to the young fella was that his sins were forgiven, I can imagine there were questions and feelings of disappointment among those friends.  But Jesus knew that the healing of which he was most in need was that of his sin condition, not his physical condition.  One way or the other, heaven or hell, his physical condition would be temporary.  But the healing of his sin condition would change his eternity.

I won't expound on the fact, but notice how when the religious leaders heard Jesus tell the young man that his sins were forgiven, they muttered among themselves calling Jesus blasphemous.  Scripture is clear that Jesus didn't audibly hear them, He "knew what they were thinking" and then addressed them.  God knows the heart of us all.  Even if we think we are being quiet enough, nonchalant enough, or secretive enough, He knows.

To be an overcomer, Jesus' next three things spoken to the young man become key lessons in our Christian walk.  First, Jesus said, "Stand up."  Please think his through with me for a moment.  Here is a young man who has NEVER used his legs!  His brain is not programmed to deliver the proper messages to his muscles to cause a response that would cause movement of any kind, much less, getting up!  This young man responded in faith to the command of God!  I can imagine that every inner voice within him was telling him "you can't do it," "this is an impossible command," "you'll be embarrassed and made a fool if you fail."  Any of those sound familiar?  But this is where many of us lose the battle and surrender to the enemy!  We are not created to be lame!  We are created to be overcomers!  Lesson #1: We must respond to the command of God in faith.

Jesus could have just told the young man to get up and go home.  For this young paralytic, that would have probably been quite enough.  But Jesus put another command in the middle.  He told him to, "pick up your mat."  See, when Jesus heals, He heals completely.  Jesus wanted this man to know that the very thing that used to mark his identity, was no longer even an issue!  The young man now carried the mat, not the other way around!  Jesus asked him to take it with him simply because Jesus wanted him to remember the place from which he came.  The mat became his testimony of a past that had been healed and changed by the power of God!  Lesson #2: We must accept that the thing that defined us is subservient to the definition God has given us through the blood of Christ - we are His kids!!!

And lastly, Jesus said to the young man, "go home."  Friends, this man not only got up and picked up his mat, he WALKED!!!  Do you get the power of this?!?  Babies have to learn to walk.  Accident victims have to be rehabilitated and once again learn to walk.  That is the natural order of things except breathing.  But not him!!!  Scripture uses the word "immediately" to describe how long it took for him to be able to put one foot in front of the other and get moving.  His muscles were probably about the size of a pencil.  He had never used them.  They had never responded to brain wave activity and command.  But they DID respond to the command of the Creator - the Great Physician!  Lesson #3: Simple obedience on our part brings about God's power to circumvent the natural so that we walk in the supernatural!

Let me say with authority that I have seen this very power in my life!  I could tell you stories that would blow your mind about God's favor and His move in my life!  Maybe I will soon.  But let's look at one more point, ok?  Other than the physical response to the command of Jesus, the young man did one more thing.  Read it by clicking here.

He praised.  He worshipped.  I can almost hear him shouting, "I'm HEALED!!!"  "I can walk!!!"  "I'm RUNNING!!!"  "Praise be to Jesus, He healed me!!!"  "All He did was speak the words and it HAPPENED!!!"  Lesson #4: Publicly give God the glory for the healing!  Oh how pride gets in the way with us nowadays.  We want to keep our mats under our cloaks hoping nobody will notice the small undeveloped muscles in our legs.  We want others to believe that we are strong with no weakness.  That we have the preverbal tiger by the tail - a demon slayer in our own right.  But that's just not the case.  We are what we are ONLY because of the healing power and forgiving, limitless grace of Christ.  How DARE we keep that silent!!!  When a world is begging, searching for hope under every rock they can find, when they only need the stone that the builder rejected - the Cornerstone - Jesus.  We are as the religious leaders in the house.  We become part of the blockade for those searching for Christ.  Stand aside.  Expose the mat.  Show some leg.  And then point to Christ.  We can overcome by this "lame" lesson.

Please leave comments below! Ask questions! Tell your friends by clicking on the social media links and posting on your Facebook or Twitter or Google + accounts. It helps to know that these are being read and even helping YOU! I never know if they are helping unless you're doing these things and ESPECIALLY leaving comments!!! Thanks for sharing a few moments with me!

"They will act religious..."

As we were closing tonight, I was talking with a coworker about today's church.  We were speaking about the authenticity of the average modern day Christian.  Understand, we weren't passing judgement and stating that anyone wouldn't deserve heaven or anything of the sort!  It was simply a discussion on whether most of today's church-going Christians "get it."

I can already hear someone from the back row stating piously in his best religious tone, "Son, we're not going to 'get it' till we get to heaven one day and see God for all that He is in all His glory."  You know, you're right.  We won't.  But see, Jesus didn't come to tell us what we had to wait for so much as He came to redeem us to Himself and bring His kingdom to us so and establish His kingdom NOW!  I don't mean the environment of the place called heaven that we will occupy for eternity, but I speak of the relationship with/to the God of heaven, Jehovah.  In relationship TO God, means to be children OF God and therefore be WITH God in His kingdom.

Take a moment to read John 14:9-14 (NLT) (click on the scripture reference to the left and you will be directed to the passage).  Jesus says that if we have seen and know Him, we have seen and know the Father.  He also says that we will do "greater works" that what HE did!!!  He even ends that paragraph by telling us that we can ask for things in His name, and it will be granted to us!  Now please note that I don't believe that means asking for a Mercedes, unless somehow that car would glorify God and not YOU!  The "yes" to these asks come with a expectation that the affirmative answers bring glory to the Father.  How do we know what brings glory to Him?  We know Him.  How do we know Him?  According to John14, we get to know His Son, Jesus.  We get to know Jesus by surrendering our lives to Him, believing in His work on the cross to take our place for our sin.  When we do that, we are adopted into the family (kingdom) now, and immediately become heirs to the throne of, and friends with God, and brothers and sisters to Jesus Christ.  Jesus said that all that His Father has given Him, He gives to us.  God's kingdom - here and now.

Let's read one more passage (you can click on this reference too to be taken directly to it) and then we will get straight to the point.  Read 2 Timothy 3:1-5.  Pay close attention to verse 5.  All through this passage, Paul is talking about church-going people!  He's not talking about the crowds that we're needing to tell about Jesus, he's talking about the ones who should know better!  Me and you!!!  Look around you.  Close your eyes and imagine you are where you normally sit on Sunday (yes, I know you have "your seat" in church).  See those people around you in your mind.  You think they "get it?" Do YOU?!?  Are we living lives of authenticity?

Let's look at some of the works that Jesus did: healed the sick, made the lame to walk, made the blind to see, brought back Lazarus from the dead, fed 5,000 men and their families from a few fish and a couple loaves of bread, calmed stormy seas, walked on water, and the list goes on.  Now Jesus said that we would do even greater works than HE!  What have you done?  Made the toast without burning it?  Got the kids to soccer only ten minutes late this time rather than the normal fifteen?  Fixed the broken windshield wiper on your own?  NOW go back and read 2 Timothy 3:5.  What if we were so busy with verses 2-4, that we ended up like verse 5?  The great toast, the lack of tardiness, the working wiper while all good, mean nothing to eternity!  God takes more care of us than just providing a close parking space at Walmart!!!  There is POWER given to us!!!

I don't believe that it will be long till Jesus returns.  And when He does, I think there are going to be many of us Christians who look at Him and say, "Whoa! Preacher wasn't kiddin'!"  We will be caught off guard at the fact that being godly is more than a good idea or a mantra by which to live.  The Bible, Jesus, our Heavenly Father - are all more than a good idea!!!  They are REAL!  Yet we treat it like we've joined a fraternity or a sorority, learned the secret handshake, the code words, the key gestures, and now we're part of the club!  All that religious hokey pokey stuff will work it's way out, we just want to go to heaven and be a part of something and this is an easy one to join!  We use the stuff we've learned when appropriate, but never tap into the full power that lives inside of us.  We are living 2 Timothy 3:5!!!

Then on top of all that, we spend so much effort every four years trying to push for the "right man" in the White House.  BTW, if you're just joining us, "right man" means Christian man.  It's Christianese.  But can I actually get someone out there to agree that the Christian one isn't always the best LEADER?!?  We need BOTH.  We need a Christian who is also a good leader.  Not one or the other!  Yet seemingly we need that person (President) to blame when things don't go as they should.  "Well, if the 'right man' had been elected, it wouldn't have been like this!"  Can I just throw the BS flag right there?!?  I firmly believe that Jesus isn't as concerned with having a Godly leader in the White House as he is having a Godly leader in YOUR house!!!  Let's stop blaming others for our lack of faith and courage!!!  If it's not the President, it's someBODY or someTHING else!  The real reason that things are the way they are looks back at you with a haunting stare every time you face a mirror.  The church hasn't been the Church for years now!

I believe God is looking for His children to RISE UP!  We wear HIS name!  We are HIS people!  We carry HIS power, HIS love, HIS salvation, HIS hope to a hopeless world.  Let's quit GOING to church and let's BE the church.  Let's no longer deny the power of the God whom we declare we believe in and worship.  Our enemy is playing for keeps!  It's real!!!  Let's get real ourselves.

I'm going to pray here.  Feel free to make this prayer your own.

Jesus, I'm sorry for making Christianity more of a good idea than a reality.  I'm sorry for not acting like the child you chose to make a part of Your eternity by sending your Son to die in my place.  Prompt me with the Holy Spirit to act when I should act, listen when I should listen, and fill me with wisdom for every decision I make every day I live, starting right now.  Empower me and help me to act in that power with FULL FAITH!!!  Knowing that Your promises are true and that whatever I ask in Your name, if I am in line with Your will, it will be given to me so that You alone may receive glory!  Thank you for Your forgiveness and Your promises.  In Jesus' name, amen.

Please leave comments below! Ask questions! Tell your friends by clicking on the social media links and posting on your Facebook or Twitter or Google + accounts. It helps to know that these are being read and even helping YOU! I never know that unless you're doing these things and ESPECIALLY leaving comments!!! Thanks for sharing a few moments with me!

BIBLE: Love Is A Choice

First, read Luke 10:25-37.

As a Worship Pastor, I have sat down with many of the artists I've had the privilege of pastoring, and I've heard them say something like this, "You can't help who you love."  Or, "It just happened!  I didn't WANT to love that person!"  If you're like me, you've probably even said something like that YOURSELF!  It's on television, in the movies, printed in books and magazines, and all across social media.  We're told that we need to find our own truth.  That our purpose depends on what is best for us.

I will agree that each of us are made as individuals.  We are made uniquely with diversity in mind.  That was always the intent.  We are "fearfully and wonderfully made" according to Luke 139:13-14.  We have a purpose and a calling that we are each supposed to fulfill.  BUT!  There is a commonality that binds us all.  There is a foundation on which our diversity and uniqueness is to be built.  Isaiah 64:6 tells us that any purpose, and calling, any "righteousness" is like a filthy rag without Christ.  So in order for anything we do, our works, to make any difference at all to God, there must first be the common foundation of a relationship with Christ.

In the scripture I asked you to read, the expert in religious law asked Jesus what he must do to have eternal life.  Look again here at verse 27 as the expert recounts what we now call the Old Testament law.  And he was right, according to Jesus!  In order for everything to make sense, for all our works to be counted, we must FIRST love God, then love others!!!

But now let's stop right there!  How is that possible?  If we are to find our own truth, according to the media and what's popular, and if we can't help who we love, then how can we CHOOSE to love God and love others?!?  AND, that last part actually says to love neighbors as MYSELF, so I have to love ME too!!!

Michelle and I were watching a Podcast of Bishop TD Jakes tonight on TV.  He said something that just HIT me!!!  He said, "Love is controllable.  God could not be considered to be a just God were He to command us to do something we can not do."  Oh WOW!!!  Bishop Jakes woke up a whole new thing within me as God used him to speak into my own heart.  Do you understand what God is implying here by His command to us to love?!?  He is saying that we CHOOSE who we love!!!  If we choose to love Him, we choose to love others.  We choose who our mates will be.  We choose our friends.  Love is a CHOICE!!!

And did you see how cool Jesus answers the question in our main scripture passage?  When the expert recounted to love God and love our neighbor, the lawyer wanted to know who was classified as our "neighbor?"  That's when Jesus delivers the story of the Good Samaritan.  Samaritans and Jews didn't talk to each other!  Ancestors of the Hatfields and McCoy's, these two nations!!!  Yet Jesus showed a CHOICE by the Samaritan to have compassion on this hurt Jew and care for him.  This was the kind of choice on whose shoulders could ride the reconciliation of two peoples.  Remember at the end of ROCKY IV when Rocky was being interviewed by the Russian announcer after just knocking out Ivan Drago?  He said, "If I can change, and you can change, then maybe we ALL can change!"  It's a choice.

And the part that I only touched on earlier isn't by any means the lesser of the lessons here.  We are to choose to love ourselves.  According to this scripture, we can't love others until we love ourselves first! Otherwise, who are we going to love our neighbors AS?  Just to get you thinking.

I'm reminded of ol' Joshua in the Old Testament telling his people to choose that day who they would serve, but, he said, "as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."  So who you gonna love today?  Choose now.  :-)

BIBLE: How To Win Back A "Fallen" Christian

BEFORE READING THIS BLOG, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU READ MY BLOG FROM A FEW DAYS AGO, LEAVE 99 AND GO FOR 1.  IT SETS UP THE ATTITUDE AND SOME OF THE LANGUAGE I WILL BE USING HERE IN THIS BLOG.

I'm not speaking to this question having gone through some kind of seminary class on the theology of rescuing wayward Christians.  Neither have I been to some psychology classes that gives me some kind of degree to hang out a shingle and start a counseling firm.  I have a Spiritual Gift of counseling, but no degree.

So what are my credentials?  I have only one.  I'm one of the wayward Christians who have been rescued...on more than one occasion.  A "success story" type description would be a bit of a stretch.  I made it through once, only to do again what I swore would NEVER happen again!  But I'm also one of the fortunate ones.  I'm in love with Jesus today and I'm learning more and more about Him every day.  There's hope for those like me.  Maybe you know someone like me and you want more than anything to see them in a better place.  Read on. There's no formula, but here, you'll get a little advice, a few guidelines, and, I pray, a lot of hope!!!

First and foremost, YOU need to realize that you're no different.  Name the sin.  Whatever it is that someone else has done, it's no worse than anything you've done!  The moment you think yourself better, in any way, than the person you want to help, you give the enemy a foothold in the outcome.  The devil will consistently spin the conversations with that attitude unless you first surrender that spirit of superiority to Christ, repent of it, and be a conduit of grace because you fully understand that it took the same Spotless Lamb's blood to save YOUR sin as it will theirs.  If you can't reach this place, let someone else handle it.  But this is important for ALL Christians to realize, not just a few.  It's the recognition of the power of the grace and forgiveness in our own lives that supercharges the effectiveness of our testimonies and counsel to others.  It's "Being A Christian 101!"

Second, you need to realize that tough love and scare tactics rarely work.  It's not something you see in scripture either.  Giving your life for someone else's is one thing, if you want to call that a form of tough love.  But there's no greater love than that.  THAT kind of love is not only in scripture, it is what Jesus did for us all!!!  Discipline is in scripture.  It even says that God chastises those whom He loves.  So I'm not saying there should not be discipline.  But Jesus never exercised, endorsed, or encouraged any form of tough love!  It causes resentment in the one you're trying to help.  Resentment causes a desire for separation.  The moment you further separate the person any more than what they already are, that is the moment you turn them over to that "roaring lion seeking whom he may devour."  The devil WANTS them alone!  Without protection, they're easy prey.  It's the 1 who has left the 99.  Yet this seems to be the FIRST thing that many Christians do!  We feel like we can't handle it or don't want to, so we take a hands off approach.  We look at them and say, "I'm not sure you're even a sheep.  And if you ARE one, you're not like us and we don't want you or to be associated with you."  But in doing this, we remove the protection of the influence of other Christians in their lives.  We paint a target on the back of the sheep and say, "Here you go, devil.  You can have this one.  He's not worthy to be in our group!"

I can hear your thoughts, "So then are you saying to CONDONE the sin and act like nothing is wrong?"  ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!  Scripture doesn't do that either!!!  Sin is sin and it cost Jesus His life!!!  We need to, again, FULLY understand of what Jesus has forgiven us, before we EVER start trying to point out the ins of others!  We're quick to go to Matthew 18 and say that we should consider them o be like tax collectors and other sinners.  But did we do what Matthew 18 pointed out before it ever got to that point?!?  It lists a step by step process!  But read what happens we choose not to forgive someone who asks for it in Matthew 18:21-35.  It doesn't do well to withhold forgiveness.

So then, WHAT IS THE ANSWER?!?  It's simple.  Love.  That's it.  A simple four letter word.  Love in SPITE of the sin, not because of it.  Love the SINNER, not the sin.  Remember the shepherd going out to find the 1 and leaving the 99?  Remember what his staff is for?  NEVER use the pointy end on the sheep!!!  That is for the enemy, the devourer, not the one you wish to protect.  Guard your words carefully.  Be transparent about your own failures.  Take responsibility for any part you played, even if you don't think you did!!!  This can't be about you.  It's about them.  It is reducing yourself below your rights and what or who you believe you are to reach out to someone who doesn't DESERVE your rescue attempt, but you love them or Jesus or both enough to try.

Now let me say a word about counseling.  I've been through counseling.  I went through about 3 years of it a number of years ago.  It worked some wonders in my life at the time.  I identified a lot of things that helped me to watch out for pitfalls in the future.  But it did not keep me from making the same mistake again!  There are all kinds of great programs out there for all kinds of different problems.  But an alcoholic will always be tempted by alcohol.  A drug addict by drugs.  A porn addict by porn.  These things are readily accessible by anyone who wants to try hard enough.  But NOTHING out there works as well as the move of God in a person's life!  I don't care how many programs you send someone to, Jesus is still better than any doctor or counselor.  I believe in the work of doctors and counselors!  I DO!!!  But Jesus is making the lasting difference!!!

Read Romans 6:23.  Notice the use of the words "is death."  Friends, when Christians sin, there is still DEATH!!!  Hear me?  Let me repeat that.  When Christians sin, there is STILL DEATH!!!  When I sinned, I had all kinds of friends - CHRISTIAN friends - dessert me!  They all told me, "That's the consequences of your sin."  WHAT?!?  No.  See, we don't get to sentence our brothers and sisters to any kind of consequence.  They're dying inside!!!  If they truly know Jesus, there is conviction, there is grief, there is mourning, and yes, there is a part of them that has died.  It is the part called "a right relationship with God."  And that part is the very heartbeat and breath - the LIFE - of a believer in Jesus.  There is NOTHING you or anyone else on this earth can say or do that will cause more death in a person's life that being outside that right relationship!  They may not realize it.  They may deny it.  They may reject a belief in it.  But that's not THEIR choice either!!!  That's Bible.  Death is the payment - the wages - of sin.  God said that would happen.  And our belief as far as what treatment sinners need doesn't mean a hill of beans to God!  He's got this.  He doesn't need our help.  GOD is the Judge.  God is the Jury.  And HE will pronounce sentence.  He has given us two commands, basically.  They are NOT, "watch and see how many tears they cry at the altar, I need to know if they are REALLY sorry!  I can't tell from up here."  He's never deferred and said, "Pastor, how many years of counseling do you think he needs before I let him serve Me again?  Now I know I can't let him back in the capacity he was because you people won't accept him that way."  Sounds ridiculous, almost blasphemous, doesn't it?  But that is the attitude we take.  That's the way we expect God to act.  When He has told us our two responsibilities: love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind, and love our neighbor as ourselves.  Period.  We love them.  We ache with them when we see the sentence (if He chooses to pronounce one) on their lives.  Because we know that but for the grace of God, there go I!

People have looked at Jimmy Swaggart, Jim Bakker, Ted Haggard, Michael English, and the like, and have shamed them and shunned them and refused to listen to them because they have sin in their past.  Well SO DO YOU!!!  The ONLY difference between them and you is that everybody knows what THEY did!!!  What would happen if someone were to read your most private sins that you hope nobody ever finds out about in a public arena?  THEN how would you feel about grace?!?  You'd want a little, wouldn't you?  But we need PROOF that they've repented!!!  NO YOU DON'T!!!  God's a big boy.  He said He would handle that part.  LET HIM!!!  Personally, I think that is a total blatant display of a lack of faith in God!  When Christians do that, it is a window into their own relationship with God that says, "I really don't believe it when I say that God can handle anything, even that which He has promised to handle."  In that situation, YOU are the problem, not the one who is wayward and crying out on the inside for someone to help and listen.

Understand, I'm not trying to get any kind of sympathy or "preach" to friends who turned their backs on me.  I left that to Jesus.  All but 1 has allowed me to restore my relationships with them through Christ.  Thank You, Lord, for that!!!  And I have left the 1 in the hands of Jesus and have accepted his decision not to have any further contact with me.  He has that right.  As far as I know, he will never see this blog.

Truth be told, people who have experienced public sin, people such as those listed above, probably have a closer walk with Jesus than any of you!  WHY?!?  Because HE is the "Great Shepherd" who left the 99 and went after them and now holds them close to His chest!  HE is the "Great Physician."  HE is the "Wonderful Counselor."  Not YOU!  Not Dr. Phil!!!  No Dr. Drew!!!  JESUS!!!!

Let me tell you, friends, I have learned more about the power of God in my life (thus the lives of others since He loves us all) after my "fall" than I ever did before!!!  I'm closer to God now.  I have a renewed sense of purpose.  I have a renewed calling, even though His first call on my life has never been revoked according to Romans 11:29.

I also believe that the closer a person is to a wayward Christian, the more responsibility they have.  Parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, best friends, spouses, children, whatever - we have the responsibility of getting our hands dirty.  Scripture makes it VERY clear what our responsibilities are in Galatians 6:1-3.  Pay strong and close attention to the words "GENTLY" and "HUMBLY."  Plus God says in James 5:19-20 that those who bring them back - those who embark on a rescue mission - end up saving a life and a multitude of sins!  The question to you is, "Do you mean what you say?"  Do you really LOVE that person?

There are many out there who have children, parents, friends, etc who have "gone off the deep end."  I'm no pro.  I have no shingle and no degree.  There are no formulas.  But if you need to ask a question, I would love to help if I can.  Feel free to write me.  You can use the link on the right of this blog under the ABOUT ME section.  I will write you back.  And PLEASE take time to comment below!!!  Share this blog on YOUR Facebook page so that your friends can read what's here.  I believe this information to be so very important.  Just click on the Facebook and Twitter links that are somewhat grayed out below this blog near the "Comments" section and you can share to either one you wish.

Thanks for taking time with me.  I hope and pray this helps you and many others.  Till next time...