Welcome to the Weekend Sermon. For those of you who live in the United States, I hope that you have a wonderful Labor Day weekend.
This was a very rough week at work. I really need everyone's prayers so that I can keep making it through each day. My writing is doing better, so I thank the Lord for that blessing.
In your prayer time this week, please continue to pray that the Ebola epidemic will come to an end. Pray that the Lord will heal those who are afflicted, and pray that He will comfort those who have lost loved ones as a result of this illness. Also, continue to pray for peace in Israel, Ukraine, Iraq and Syria.
This week I received some news that made me immediately think about the verse that will be our sermon text today. James 3:14 states, "... You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."
I called Toby's old veterinarian one morning last week. I wanted to know if he might have a job available at his clinic. He really surprised me when he told me that he had sold the clinic and was now just an employee. He said that at 61 years of age he was cutting back and thinking of retiring in the near future.
I've known this man since I was 11 years old. My Mom sold him his first house and veterinary clinic when she worked as a real estate agent. He said that if Mom hadn't helped him get the zoning passed, he would never have been able to open the clinic.
I thought a lot this week about how time just seems to fly by. It's been 18 years since Toby passed away, and it just seems like he was here yesterday. September will mark the fifth year since my Mom died. It seems not long ago.
Time just keeps rolling along. And then you find yourself old.
Our verse today says that life is like a mist. One Bible version says that life is like a vapor. It doesn't last very long. The mist and dew on the ground in the morning quickly burns away in the heat of the morning sunshine. The vapor of steam rising from a cup of hot coffee vanishes in the blink of the eye.
So what does this have to teach us. I think that there is a practical and a spiritual lesson to be learned from this passage in James' epistle.
On the practical level, the brevity of life should make each of us think about doing and accomplishing what we want to do in life before time passes us by. If you have an activity you want to do or a dream you want to pursue, now is the time to do it, because no one is promised tomorrow.
I wanted more than anything to have some great adventure with my friend Toby. I wanted to travel around the country together and explore. But that can never be in this life. He is gone, and that dream is over. It is a regret.
Thanks be to God, many of the dreams I had have come to pass. I wanted to be a published writer, and in this pursuit, the Lord has blessed me far above anything I ever expected or imagined. I wanted to be a jazz musician. The Lord allowed me to be a trumpet player. I'm not great, but I'm playing.
I know so many people who go through life and they never do what is in their heart. My Dad always wanted to have a farm. It's all he ever talked about. But he kept putting it off and putting is off. He was afraid to take the risk. Then, one day, he no longer had the health to pursue what had been a lifelong ambition.
The same was true with my Mom. She worked as a healthcare administrator, and she made good money and benefits. However, she always wanted to be a nurse. She even checked into going to nursing school when I was in junior high. She never went, and she always regretted it.
If you have a dream in your heart, don't keep putting it off until tomorrow. If it is something that is in God's will, try with all of your might to do it.
As for me, my desire is to keep writing, and I'm not giving it up. I also want to get another dog. I've been putting it off. I'm not getting any younger. It's time to act I think.
Now on the spiritual side.
Since life is so short, we need to do all we can to serve the Lord and do as much good as we can. We need to try to leave this world a little better place than the way we found it. The Lord Jesus has commanded His followers to go into the world and preach the Gospel. Let us all do this today and not delay. Let each of us determine to share the love of Jesus with a hurting world. Don't put things off, today is the day of action.
Also, you may be delaying making a decision to accept Jesus into your life as Savior and Lord. You may say, "I'll do it another day." You may not have another day. Life is short. Today is the day of salvation as the Scripture says. Turn your life over to the Lord Jesus in repentance and faith now and don't delay.
Thank you for joining me for another Weekend Sermon. This Tuesday, I will post another verse for the week, and on Wednesday there will be a review. I hope to see you next weekend for another sermon. May you experience the love of Jesus in your heart this week. Amen.
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Book Review
My book recommendation for today is entitled "Mornings With Barney" written by Dick Wolfsie. Dick met Barney by accident. Barney just showed up at Dick's house one day. Because Barney made a wreck of the house while Dick was away at his job as a morning television reporter, Dick started taking Barney with him to work each morning. Slowly but surely, Barney became a regular feature of Dick's reports on morning television in Indianapolis.
In the book, Wolfsie recounts many of the different things he and Barney did together on and off the job. Once Barney climbed a high dive, and Dick had to get him off the diving board. Barney was always getting into some type of mischief on and off camera.
Besides working on morning television, Dick and Barney hosted a late-night movie show and a daytime radio program. They spent twelve great years together. These years the pair spent together make for great reading. Dog lovers will want to read this book. I don't think it is in print right now even though it was just published in 2009. However, you can probably get the book from a seller on Amazon or at the library. I got my copy at the used book sale at my local library.
In the book, Wolfsie recounts many of the different things he and Barney did together on and off the job. Once Barney climbed a high dive, and Dick had to get him off the diving board. Barney was always getting into some type of mischief on and off camera.
Besides working on morning television, Dick and Barney hosted a late-night movie show and a daytime radio program. They spent twelve great years together. These years the pair spent together make for great reading. Dog lovers will want to read this book. I don't think it is in print right now even though it was just published in 2009. However, you can probably get the book from a seller on Amazon or at the library. I got my copy at the used book sale at my local library.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Weekend Sermon
It is good to be back with you again this week. I am always happy when it is the time of the week to post another edition of the Weekend Sermon. I pray that all of you are doing well.
It is very hot where I live. Please pray for all of those who have to work outside in the heat everyday. Also, pray for those who are homeless who have to face these brutal conditions on top of everything else that they must endure in life.
I'd would ask you all to continue to pray for those affected by the Ebola virus in Africa. Pray that this outbreak might be brought under control, and pray for those who are treating the sick. Pray for the sick that they might fully recover.
Also pray for peace. I especially urge you to pray for peace in Syria, Iraq and Ukraine. Continue to pray for peace in Israel and Gaza.
In today's message, I would like to focus on the theme of our verse of the week that I posted on Monday. To refresh your memory, that verse was Ephesians 4 32 which states, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
This verse contains some important themes that I would like to discuss today. First of all is the idea of being kind and compassionate to one another. This is so important.
I don't know about where you live, but in the country where I live, basic civility and kindness to one another seems to be a thing of the past. When I was growing up, people would not have dreamed of speaking as rudely and disrespectfully to others as they do now. The society in general has become very course and abrasive on many levels.
As followers of the Lord Jesus, we need to rise above the meanness of society at large, and practice kindness and compassion just as Jesus showed us to do. Our first area of kindness and compassion needs to be with our family. Let us all resolve to speak words that heal and not words that hurt with our wives, husbands, children and other family members. Let us speak words of encouragement. Tell your loved ones each and every day who much you love them and care about them. Also, don't forget acts of kindness. Go out of your way to help make someone in your family's day a little bit better.
Let us also practice kindness and compassion for our fellow Christians. Sadly, the church family can be a place of back-biting and dissension. That is not a good witness for the transforming power of Jesus. Just as we should show practical kindness to our family and friends, let us strive to help and encourage those with whom we share a Savior.
Our kindness and compassion must also be expressed to the world at large. This can be done in a number of different ways. There are many hurting people in this world. There are homeless people who need assistance as well as others trapped in poverty who need a helping hand. Let us all who name the name of Jesus be the people who help those who need help in whatever way the Lord Jesus has equipped us to help and assist.
This verse also speaks about forgiving. Jesus spoke about forgiveness many times during His earthly ministry. We have been forgiven so much as Christians. We ought to be willing to forgive others. Jesus said to forgive 70 times 7. The characteristic of one who has been forgiven is that he is willing to forgive others.
And what is the reason that we should be kind, compassionate and forgiving? It is because Jesus has demonstrated kindness, compassion and forgiveness towards us. Jesus shows His kindness to the world at large everyday. In spite of the fact that the majority of people have rejected Him, the Lord still provides air, sunshine and rain. The Lord still allows more good than bad to be in the world. Jesus showed His kindness to the human race ultimately by coming to earth and bearing the sins of this world in His body while He was on the cross. He conquered sin, death, hell and the grave so that we might not have to fear death. Jesus has demonstrated His kindness by preparing a place for us with Him in Heaven. Ultimately, Jesus will demonstrate His kindness and compassion to the universe by one day coming again in power and great glory. He will rid the world of sin, and He will create a new Heaven and a new earth. All of the former things will pass away, and all will be at peace and all will be right and good.
As for as forgiveness goes, we owed a debt that we could not pay. That was our sin debt. But, Jesus has provided the means of forgiveness. If we call upon the name of the Lord Jesus, He will forgive of us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. He will come into our hearts, be our Savior and Lord, and He will never leave us or forsake us. Praise be to His holy name.
It all comes down to following Jesus as our ultimate example. If we pattern our lives after what Jesus said and did we can't go wrong. Let us all follow Jesus this week and find ways to practice kindness, compassion and forgiveness in our families, in our churches and in our communities.
On Monday, I will post another verse for the week. I will try to post a book review on Wednesday or Thursday, and the Weekend Sermon will appear on Friday or Saturday. May the blessings of the Lord Jesus Christ be upon you all. Amen.
It is very hot where I live. Please pray for all of those who have to work outside in the heat everyday. Also, pray for those who are homeless who have to face these brutal conditions on top of everything else that they must endure in life.
I'd would ask you all to continue to pray for those affected by the Ebola virus in Africa. Pray that this outbreak might be brought under control, and pray for those who are treating the sick. Pray for the sick that they might fully recover.
Also pray for peace. I especially urge you to pray for peace in Syria, Iraq and Ukraine. Continue to pray for peace in Israel and Gaza.
In today's message, I would like to focus on the theme of our verse of the week that I posted on Monday. To refresh your memory, that verse was Ephesians 4 32 which states, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
This verse contains some important themes that I would like to discuss today. First of all is the idea of being kind and compassionate to one another. This is so important.
I don't know about where you live, but in the country where I live, basic civility and kindness to one another seems to be a thing of the past. When I was growing up, people would not have dreamed of speaking as rudely and disrespectfully to others as they do now. The society in general has become very course and abrasive on many levels.
As followers of the Lord Jesus, we need to rise above the meanness of society at large, and practice kindness and compassion just as Jesus showed us to do. Our first area of kindness and compassion needs to be with our family. Let us all resolve to speak words that heal and not words that hurt with our wives, husbands, children and other family members. Let us speak words of encouragement. Tell your loved ones each and every day who much you love them and care about them. Also, don't forget acts of kindness. Go out of your way to help make someone in your family's day a little bit better.
Let us also practice kindness and compassion for our fellow Christians. Sadly, the church family can be a place of back-biting and dissension. That is not a good witness for the transforming power of Jesus. Just as we should show practical kindness to our family and friends, let us strive to help and encourage those with whom we share a Savior.
Our kindness and compassion must also be expressed to the world at large. This can be done in a number of different ways. There are many hurting people in this world. There are homeless people who need assistance as well as others trapped in poverty who need a helping hand. Let us all who name the name of Jesus be the people who help those who need help in whatever way the Lord Jesus has equipped us to help and assist.
This verse also speaks about forgiving. Jesus spoke about forgiveness many times during His earthly ministry. We have been forgiven so much as Christians. We ought to be willing to forgive others. Jesus said to forgive 70 times 7. The characteristic of one who has been forgiven is that he is willing to forgive others.
And what is the reason that we should be kind, compassionate and forgiving? It is because Jesus has demonstrated kindness, compassion and forgiveness towards us. Jesus shows His kindness to the world at large everyday. In spite of the fact that the majority of people have rejected Him, the Lord still provides air, sunshine and rain. The Lord still allows more good than bad to be in the world. Jesus showed His kindness to the human race ultimately by coming to earth and bearing the sins of this world in His body while He was on the cross. He conquered sin, death, hell and the grave so that we might not have to fear death. Jesus has demonstrated His kindness by preparing a place for us with Him in Heaven. Ultimately, Jesus will demonstrate His kindness and compassion to the universe by one day coming again in power and great glory. He will rid the world of sin, and He will create a new Heaven and a new earth. All of the former things will pass away, and all will be at peace and all will be right and good.
As for as forgiveness goes, we owed a debt that we could not pay. That was our sin debt. But, Jesus has provided the means of forgiveness. If we call upon the name of the Lord Jesus, He will forgive of us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. He will come into our hearts, be our Savior and Lord, and He will never leave us or forsake us. Praise be to His holy name.
It all comes down to following Jesus as our ultimate example. If we pattern our lives after what Jesus said and did we can't go wrong. Let us all follow Jesus this week and find ways to practice kindness, compassion and forgiveness in our families, in our churches and in our communities.
On Monday, I will post another verse for the week. I will try to post a book review on Wednesday or Thursday, and the Weekend Sermon will appear on Friday or Saturday. May the blessings of the Lord Jesus Christ be upon you all. Amen.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Book Review
As many of you know, I enjoy reading the books in the "Chet and Bernie" series written by author Spencer Quinn. These books are about a private investigator named Bernie Little and his canine partner named Chet. The books are narrated by Chet.
The latest installment in this series has recently been published. The new book is entitled "Paw and Order". In this book, Chet and Bernie are in Washington D.C. to visit Bernie's girlfriend Suzie. While in the nation's capital, Chet and Bernie are drawn into a murder investigation.
Chet is funny as always. He thinks that Bernie can do no wrong and is the greatest person who ever lived. I've enjoyed every book in this series, but I think that "Paw and Order" is the best of the series next to the first book, "Dog On It". Those who like dogs, mysteries and books with humor will love "Paw and Order."
The latest installment in this series has recently been published. The new book is entitled "Paw and Order". In this book, Chet and Bernie are in Washington D.C. to visit Bernie's girlfriend Suzie. While in the nation's capital, Chet and Bernie are drawn into a murder investigation.
Chet is funny as always. He thinks that Bernie can do no wrong and is the greatest person who ever lived. I've enjoyed every book in this series, but I think that "Paw and Order" is the best of the series next to the first book, "Dog On It". Those who like dogs, mysteries and books with humor will love "Paw and Order."
Monday, August 18, 2014
Verse of the Week
Ephesians 4:32 -- "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Weekend Sermon -- Various Thoughts
Welcome to another week of the Weekend Sermon. Thank you for taking the time to read the blog and the items that I post. I hope and pray that all of you are doing well.
I am feeling pretty good, and I thank you for your prayers on my behalf. Please pray that the Lord will continue to assist me in serving Him.
In your prayer time this week, I would once again ask you all to pray about the situation with the Ebola epidemic in Western Africa. The latest statistics that I heard from Doctors Without Borders said that over 1,000 people have died as a result of the Ebola virus. They think that this estimate is very low. Also, as you pray this week, pray for the family of Robin Williams as they go through the difficult time of dealing with the death of their loved one.
Today's sermon is going to be something different. The name of this blog is Reflections and Various Thoughts, and this sermon is going to consist of some of the various thoughts that I've been having lately about spiritual things.
One of the things that I've been thinking a lot about lately is the idea of thankfulness. Over the last few days, I've been considering all the things that I have to be thankful for. This was prompted by the fact that things are very difficult at work right now. I found myself getting down until I started counting the many ways that God has blessed me.
For one thing, I can be thankful for the fact that God has revealed His love to me in the person of His only begotten Son the Lord Jesus Christ. I can be thankful for my salvation and my personal relationship with Jesus.
I have also realized that I can be thankful for good food to eat and a place to live. I have a very good friend who lives in Heaven. That would be my friend Toby. I also have a very good friend who lives across the street from me who has helped me out in so many ways these past few years.
I believe that all of us as believers in the Lord should express our thankfulness to Him every day for all the blessings that we have been given. The Bible says that we are to in all things give thanks. This doesn't mean that we are to be thankful and happy about bad things that happen to us. I think what it does mean is that in every situation, the follower of Jesus can express thankfulness for knowing the Risen Lord.
The next thing that I've been thinking about the past few days is something that a minister I listen to on the Internet said. She said that the main theme of the Bible is whether or not humans will trust God and follow what He wants them to do. I think that she is right on the mark. From the opening chapters in Genesis, humans have rebelled against the ways of the Lord and decided to go their own way. We all seem to think that we know more than God.
This got me thinking about my own life. Often, I want things to go a certain way, and I don't trust God to work things out His way. For instance, when the Lord called me into the ministry, I envisioned this as being the pastor of a church. I tried to make that happen, and it didn't work out. However, Jesus had a different plan. He led me into a ministry of writing, and a ministry on the Internet. I should have just trusted that Jesus would work His will out in my life, and I should have stopped trying to accomplish things in my own strength.
I also know that I need to trust the Lord Jesus to guide me and provide for me. I get discouraged and I worry, but I must trust in Jesus that He knows the way.
If you are facing a difficult circumstance, put your trust in the Lord's strength and don't rely on your own strength. Follow where Jesus leads, and don't try to go your own way.
Finally, I've been thinking about a verse found in Genesis 18. Abraham asks, "Will not the judge of all the earth do right?" Often, I wonder why the Lord allows so much bad and suffering to occur in the world. It all seems so unfair. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. People that have little seem to keep getting more problems thrown upon them. The evil seem to prosper while the righteous suffer.
In these times, I have to remember that Jesus will do what is right. I certainly don't understand everything that happens in my own life or in the workings of this world. However, I know that Jesus loves the world, and He is bringing about ultimate good for this world. Once again, it is about trusting Jesus and believing in Him.
These are just some random thoughts. Hopefully, they will prompt you to think about these things.
I will post a review on Wednesday and the verse of the week on Monday. I will post the Weekend Sermon on Friday or Saturday. May God Bless you all. Amen.
I am feeling pretty good, and I thank you for your prayers on my behalf. Please pray that the Lord will continue to assist me in serving Him.
In your prayer time this week, I would once again ask you all to pray about the situation with the Ebola epidemic in Western Africa. The latest statistics that I heard from Doctors Without Borders said that over 1,000 people have died as a result of the Ebola virus. They think that this estimate is very low. Also, as you pray this week, pray for the family of Robin Williams as they go through the difficult time of dealing with the death of their loved one.
Today's sermon is going to be something different. The name of this blog is Reflections and Various Thoughts, and this sermon is going to consist of some of the various thoughts that I've been having lately about spiritual things.
One of the things that I've been thinking a lot about lately is the idea of thankfulness. Over the last few days, I've been considering all the things that I have to be thankful for. This was prompted by the fact that things are very difficult at work right now. I found myself getting down until I started counting the many ways that God has blessed me.
For one thing, I can be thankful for the fact that God has revealed His love to me in the person of His only begotten Son the Lord Jesus Christ. I can be thankful for my salvation and my personal relationship with Jesus.
I have also realized that I can be thankful for good food to eat and a place to live. I have a very good friend who lives in Heaven. That would be my friend Toby. I also have a very good friend who lives across the street from me who has helped me out in so many ways these past few years.
I believe that all of us as believers in the Lord should express our thankfulness to Him every day for all the blessings that we have been given. The Bible says that we are to in all things give thanks. This doesn't mean that we are to be thankful and happy about bad things that happen to us. I think what it does mean is that in every situation, the follower of Jesus can express thankfulness for knowing the Risen Lord.
The next thing that I've been thinking about the past few days is something that a minister I listen to on the Internet said. She said that the main theme of the Bible is whether or not humans will trust God and follow what He wants them to do. I think that she is right on the mark. From the opening chapters in Genesis, humans have rebelled against the ways of the Lord and decided to go their own way. We all seem to think that we know more than God.
This got me thinking about my own life. Often, I want things to go a certain way, and I don't trust God to work things out His way. For instance, when the Lord called me into the ministry, I envisioned this as being the pastor of a church. I tried to make that happen, and it didn't work out. However, Jesus had a different plan. He led me into a ministry of writing, and a ministry on the Internet. I should have just trusted that Jesus would work His will out in my life, and I should have stopped trying to accomplish things in my own strength.
I also know that I need to trust the Lord Jesus to guide me and provide for me. I get discouraged and I worry, but I must trust in Jesus that He knows the way.
If you are facing a difficult circumstance, put your trust in the Lord's strength and don't rely on your own strength. Follow where Jesus leads, and don't try to go your own way.
Finally, I've been thinking about a verse found in Genesis 18. Abraham asks, "Will not the judge of all the earth do right?" Often, I wonder why the Lord allows so much bad and suffering to occur in the world. It all seems so unfair. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. People that have little seem to keep getting more problems thrown upon them. The evil seem to prosper while the righteous suffer.
In these times, I have to remember that Jesus will do what is right. I certainly don't understand everything that happens in my own life or in the workings of this world. However, I know that Jesus loves the world, and He is bringing about ultimate good for this world. Once again, it is about trusting Jesus and believing in Him.
These are just some random thoughts. Hopefully, they will prompt you to think about these things.
I will post a review on Wednesday and the verse of the week on Monday. I will post the Weekend Sermon on Friday or Saturday. May God Bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Book Recommendations
In the past, I recommended to you the Nelson Study Bible as one of my favorite study Bibles. Today, I would like to recommend two other study Bibles that I have found quite helpful recently. The Quest Study Bible is full of very informative notes. It is not as in depth as some study Bibles that I have come across, but I think that it is great for the person who is just starting to really get into Bible study.
The second study Bible that I've found useful lately is the ESV Study Bible. This version of the Scriptures is quite accurate and readable at the same time. The notes in this particular Bible are in depth and informative.
The second study Bible that I've found useful lately is the ESV Study Bible. This version of the Scriptures is quite accurate and readable at the same time. The notes in this particular Bible are in depth and informative.
Monday, August 11, 2014
Verse of the Week
Luke 18:16 -- "Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'"
Friday, August 8, 2014
Weekend Sermon-- Psalm 40
Thank you for joining me this week for another edition of the Weekend Sermon. I would like to thank all of you who have faithfully read the sermons since I started posting them on this blog. I can hardly believe it, but this month marks three years of sermons. I pray that you have been blessed by what you have read. I want to thank you Lord Jesus for giving me this opportunity of ministry.
I also want to thank the Lord for His blessings upon me this week. There was some disagreement at work this week. However, all seems to be going well now. For that I am glad.
As you go to the Lord in prayer this week, continue to remember those who are afflicted with the Ebola virus. Please pray for the recovery of the sick, and pray that this virus will stop spreading. Also, continue to pray for peace in Syria, Israel, Afghanistan, Iraq and Ukraine.
For today's sermon, I would like us to look at one of my favorite Psalms. Psalm 40 is a Psalm with a lot of meaning to me. Let's look into it and see what we can learn.
David begins Psalm 40 by stating, "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry, He lifted me out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God."
To me, these verses take on two different meanings. First of all, these verses represent the person before and after coming to salvation through Jesus Christ. All of us were stuck in the pit of sin before we came to know the love and salvation of Jesus. Only Jesus could lift us out of the pit of sin and set us on solid ground. Jesus gives us a new heart, and He makes us a new creation. All of the old passes away, and everything in life becomes brand new.
I believe that this passage also represents the feelings of many who suffer from depression. Those who suffer from depression can feel as if their lives have fallen into the pit. Many don't know if they will ever feel any happiness again. I know how this feels as I have suffered from depression on more than one occasion.
One thing that I know in my life is that Jesus has lifted me out of despair and given me hope for living many many times. Through His love and through the awareness of His indwelling presence, I have been able to overcome the dark times that have beset my life. Jesus lifted me out of the pit and set my feet on a firm foundation. That firm foundation is His unfailing love.
This Psalm also speaks about what the Lord desires of those who follow Him. Verse 6 states, "Sacrifice and offering you did not desire." Verse 8 says, "I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is withing my heart."
What God desires is that we obey His commandments. All of our religious observances and displays are meaningless without obedience. The Lord Jesus gave us who are His followers several commandments to follow. The great commandment He left us is to love one another. We are also to love the Lord with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength. The Lord's desire of those who say that they love Him is to demonstrate that love by faithfulness and obedience.
In the remainder of this Psalm, David reiterates the fact that the Lord is the deliverer out of all of the problems we may be facing in life. I truly rest on this promise each day in my life. As followers of Jesus, we know that we will be delivered from every evil that besets us. That deliverance may occur quickly, or it may not occur until we stand in the presence of Jesus one day when all of the past problems and heartaches will be no more. For the follower of Jesus, ultimately, all is well and all will be well.
If you are facing a difficult situation in your life, remember that Jesus is with you. He will help you to face whatever you are going through. Pray, and ask Jesus to allow you to be aware of His presence. Ask the Lord to deliver you and see you through.
On Monday, I will post a verse for the week. On Wednesday, I will try to post a review. The Weekend Sermon will appear on either Friday or Saturday. May God bless you . Amen.
I also want to thank the Lord for His blessings upon me this week. There was some disagreement at work this week. However, all seems to be going well now. For that I am glad.
As you go to the Lord in prayer this week, continue to remember those who are afflicted with the Ebola virus. Please pray for the recovery of the sick, and pray that this virus will stop spreading. Also, continue to pray for peace in Syria, Israel, Afghanistan, Iraq and Ukraine.
For today's sermon, I would like us to look at one of my favorite Psalms. Psalm 40 is a Psalm with a lot of meaning to me. Let's look into it and see what we can learn.
David begins Psalm 40 by stating, "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry, He lifted me out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God."
To me, these verses take on two different meanings. First of all, these verses represent the person before and after coming to salvation through Jesus Christ. All of us were stuck in the pit of sin before we came to know the love and salvation of Jesus. Only Jesus could lift us out of the pit of sin and set us on solid ground. Jesus gives us a new heart, and He makes us a new creation. All of the old passes away, and everything in life becomes brand new.
I believe that this passage also represents the feelings of many who suffer from depression. Those who suffer from depression can feel as if their lives have fallen into the pit. Many don't know if they will ever feel any happiness again. I know how this feels as I have suffered from depression on more than one occasion.
One thing that I know in my life is that Jesus has lifted me out of despair and given me hope for living many many times. Through His love and through the awareness of His indwelling presence, I have been able to overcome the dark times that have beset my life. Jesus lifted me out of the pit and set my feet on a firm foundation. That firm foundation is His unfailing love.
This Psalm also speaks about what the Lord desires of those who follow Him. Verse 6 states, "Sacrifice and offering you did not desire." Verse 8 says, "I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is withing my heart."
What God desires is that we obey His commandments. All of our religious observances and displays are meaningless without obedience. The Lord Jesus gave us who are His followers several commandments to follow. The great commandment He left us is to love one another. We are also to love the Lord with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength. The Lord's desire of those who say that they love Him is to demonstrate that love by faithfulness and obedience.
In the remainder of this Psalm, David reiterates the fact that the Lord is the deliverer out of all of the problems we may be facing in life. I truly rest on this promise each day in my life. As followers of Jesus, we know that we will be delivered from every evil that besets us. That deliverance may occur quickly, or it may not occur until we stand in the presence of Jesus one day when all of the past problems and heartaches will be no more. For the follower of Jesus, ultimately, all is well and all will be well.
If you are facing a difficult situation in your life, remember that Jesus is with you. He will help you to face whatever you are going through. Pray, and ask Jesus to allow you to be aware of His presence. Ask the Lord to deliver you and see you through.
On Monday, I will post a verse for the week. On Wednesday, I will try to post a review. The Weekend Sermon will appear on either Friday or Saturday. May God bless you . Amen.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Book Recommendation
Today, I would like to recommend a good book for those who are interested in different dog breeds. "Dogs" written by Desmond Morris is a book for those who like to know the history and characteristics of all different types of dogs. What I like best about this particular book is that many very rare breeds of dogs are profiled along with the very popular breeds. Some of the breeds that Mr. Morris discusses I have never heard of. And that is saying something, because I started going to dog shows with my parents collies and pugs when I was a very young boy. I thought that I had seen or heard about just about every breed of dog. I was definitely wrong. This book is packed with a lot of very interesting information.
Monday, August 4, 2014
Verse of the Week
Matthew 37-40 -- "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Saturday, August 2, 2014
Weekend Sermon
Thank you all for joining me again this week for the Weekend Sermon. I am glad to be able to post the sermon this week. I pray that everyone is in good health and doing well.
This week, there are two things that I would like us all to focus our prayers on. As you may know, there is a terrible outbreak of the Ebola virus in West Africa. The countries of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea seem to be the most affected. Let us pray that those who are seek will recover, and that this virus will stop spreading.
Also, let us pray for peace in the Middle East. The conflict continues between Israel and Gaza. The innocent children suffer the most. May there be peace. May there be peace in all the troubled spots of this world. May the Prince of Peace the Lord Jesus come back very soon.
Today, I would like to talk about a very important topic that has really come to my attention in the past few weeks. As many of you know, I began a new job about five months ago. Most of the time I really enjoy my job. However, there is something that has been occurring that has really surprised and troubled me. That is the amount of racism, prejudice and discrimination that I have heard expressed by many of the people I have encountered while working.
Over the past months, I have heard many derogatory comments about people of different racial and ethnic groups. I have witnessed a great number of people expressing disdain and contempt for those who are poorer than they are or who have less education.
What really saddens me is that many of the comments in this regard that I've heard are from Christian, church-going people. This has led me to consider what the Bible says about these matters, and I want to look into this today.
The first place that we should always look is to what Jesus had to say about something. When Jesus walked upon this earth, the Samaritans were looked down upon by many members of the Jewish religious community. But, Jesus clearly demonstrated that this type of discrimination was wrong. Jesus took His message of love directly to the Samaritans. This is recorded clearly in John chapter 4 when Jesus encountered the woman at the well. Jesus also used Samaritans as examples in some of His most well-known parables including the parable of the good Samaritan.
Jesus also demonstrated the fact that He was opposed to sexism and classism as well. Jesus treated women with respect in all of His dealings. Jesus also preached a message of love and acceptance to all socio-economic groups. Jesus said that the poor were blessed and that they were the salt of the earth. In fact, the Lord's birth was announced to shepherds who were looked down upon by many in Jesus' day.
Besides these examples from the life of Jesus, the Bible has more to say on the matter of prejudice and discrimination against others. The Apostle Paul states it this way in Galatians 3:26-29 where he says, "You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
This passage makes it quite clear that there is no basis for any type of prejudice or discrimination in the Christian community. We as Christians are not to be racist nor sexist nor should we discriminate against someone based on their socioeconomic position. Jesus has made us all one.
In society in general, the believer in Jesus should be at the forefront of promoting racial and ethnic reconciliation. We should be inclusive, and share the love of Jesus with everyone.
There is another passage that is important to look at concerning these matters. In James chapter 2, James says that it is wrong to look down on someone who is poor while favoring the rich. We are to treat everyone equally.
I hope that as believers in Jesus Christ that we will recognize our unity in Him and not focus on differences. It is my prayer that Christians will repent of any racial, ethnic, or any other type of prejudices we might have. Let us be an example of love, tolerance and decency in our society.
On Monday, I will post the verse of the week. Wednesday, I hope to post a book review. I will return with the Weekend Sermon on Friday or Saturday. May God bless you. Amen.
This week, there are two things that I would like us all to focus our prayers on. As you may know, there is a terrible outbreak of the Ebola virus in West Africa. The countries of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea seem to be the most affected. Let us pray that those who are seek will recover, and that this virus will stop spreading.
Also, let us pray for peace in the Middle East. The conflict continues between Israel and Gaza. The innocent children suffer the most. May there be peace. May there be peace in all the troubled spots of this world. May the Prince of Peace the Lord Jesus come back very soon.
Today, I would like to talk about a very important topic that has really come to my attention in the past few weeks. As many of you know, I began a new job about five months ago. Most of the time I really enjoy my job. However, there is something that has been occurring that has really surprised and troubled me. That is the amount of racism, prejudice and discrimination that I have heard expressed by many of the people I have encountered while working.
Over the past months, I have heard many derogatory comments about people of different racial and ethnic groups. I have witnessed a great number of people expressing disdain and contempt for those who are poorer than they are or who have less education.
What really saddens me is that many of the comments in this regard that I've heard are from Christian, church-going people. This has led me to consider what the Bible says about these matters, and I want to look into this today.
The first place that we should always look is to what Jesus had to say about something. When Jesus walked upon this earth, the Samaritans were looked down upon by many members of the Jewish religious community. But, Jesus clearly demonstrated that this type of discrimination was wrong. Jesus took His message of love directly to the Samaritans. This is recorded clearly in John chapter 4 when Jesus encountered the woman at the well. Jesus also used Samaritans as examples in some of His most well-known parables including the parable of the good Samaritan.
Jesus also demonstrated the fact that He was opposed to sexism and classism as well. Jesus treated women with respect in all of His dealings. Jesus also preached a message of love and acceptance to all socio-economic groups. Jesus said that the poor were blessed and that they were the salt of the earth. In fact, the Lord's birth was announced to shepherds who were looked down upon by many in Jesus' day.
Besides these examples from the life of Jesus, the Bible has more to say on the matter of prejudice and discrimination against others. The Apostle Paul states it this way in Galatians 3:26-29 where he says, "You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
This passage makes it quite clear that there is no basis for any type of prejudice or discrimination in the Christian community. We as Christians are not to be racist nor sexist nor should we discriminate against someone based on their socioeconomic position. Jesus has made us all one.
In society in general, the believer in Jesus should be at the forefront of promoting racial and ethnic reconciliation. We should be inclusive, and share the love of Jesus with everyone.
There is another passage that is important to look at concerning these matters. In James chapter 2, James says that it is wrong to look down on someone who is poor while favoring the rich. We are to treat everyone equally.
I hope that as believers in Jesus Christ that we will recognize our unity in Him and not focus on differences. It is my prayer that Christians will repent of any racial, ethnic, or any other type of prejudices we might have. Let us be an example of love, tolerance and decency in our society.
On Monday, I will post the verse of the week. Wednesday, I hope to post a book review. I will return with the Weekend Sermon on Friday or Saturday. May God bless you. Amen.
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