Janet Thompson's Blog, page 28
June 23, 2018
When the Church Hurts
“Everyone at church thinks ______________ about you.”
Ouch!
“Everyone? That sounds like a few have been gossiping about me. God hates gossip. That says a lot more about them then it does about me.”
Christian White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders has responded to unjustified crude and vicious verbal attacks and actions against her with class and a gentle spirit to those who intentionally want to hurt her. If you, like me, have been hurt by people in the church, I suggest this is the attitude we take too. Don’t let a few people rob your joy.
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Philippians 1:27 Hebrews 13:6
Often “the church” is blamed for injustice, when people in the church have done the damage.
It’s important to remember that “the church” is God’s house or gathering place, and He is the head of the household, the family of God. The only perfect person in His house is Him! The rest of the church, including the pastor, elders, and leadership are imperfect people. They make mistakes. They have a higher calling and so their mistakes can have long lasting repercussions, for which they will suffer the consequences. Sometimes, we set the pastoral staff on a pedestal and expect more from them than we expect from God. That will always lead to disappointment.
All parishioners are also imperfect people, just like you and me. My former pastor, Rick Warren, says, “If you think you’ve found the perfect church, it won’t be perfect long because you just joined it.”
Everyone in the church is at different spiritual levels and degrees of maturity. Some may have misguided higher opinions of themselves, thinking they know more than others do. Some are young Christians still learning what the Christian life is and isn’t. Others might not be Christians at all.
What to Do When the Church Hurts
When I wrote the Crosswalk blog post Is Watching Church Online the Same As Going to Church?, I was saddened to read comments of how many people didn’t attend church anymore because of a bad experience at a church. Some had never returned.
Again, Pastor Warren says, “You can have a bad meal or service at a restaurant and you might not eat there again, but you don’t stop going to restaurants or eating.”
A Facebook friend started a discussion “What should you do when the church—the place or people you turn to for solace, hope, acceptance, help, and . . . love—hurts?”
Just like with my Crosswalk article, the heartbreaking comments of people being hurt in the church started flowing. Some of the sources of hurt were:
Gossip—The Bible has a lot to say about gossip because it can happen so easily, and sadly, even in the church . . . especially in the church.
A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret. Proverbs 11:13
A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. [and I would add separates good churches] Proverbs 16:28
The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. Proverbs 18:8
A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much. Proverbs 20:19
Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down. Proverbs 26:20
Leadership—Not being sensitive to the needs of the congregation or parishioners who have been hurt or mistreated in the church.
Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? Luke 15:4
Unacceptance/Rejection—Cliques form, especially in a small church. Some church members may feel they’re more important, holier, or godlier than others are, and newcomers or those who might be a little different, aren’t welcome unless they’re invited into the “in group.”
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. Romans 12:3
Judgmental—Everyone has a past, but all should be welcome in God’s house, unless they’ve come to do harm to His people. Where else will they find hope, forgiveness, and the love of Jesus?
[ Judging Others ] “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Matthew 7:1-2
False Teaching—This is never acceptable.
[ False Teachers and Their Destruction ] But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Peter 2:1
I say this because some ungodly people have wormed their way into your churches, saying that God’s marvelous grace allows us to live immoral lives. The condemnation of such people was recorded long ago, for they have denied our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. Jude 1:4 NLT
Remedies offered on the Facebook page:
Forgiveness—If you don’t forgive the bitterness and pain harbors in your heart. It was obvious from the Facebook comments, that this was true. Forgiveness doesn’t make what was said or done to you right, it does set the prisoner, you, free. It might be time to move on to another church, but God never wants us to stop coming into fellowship with other believers in His house. We just might need a new congregation, while we pray for the one we left.
Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. 13 So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall. Rom 14:12 NLT
Confront—those who have hurt you, even if it’s the pastor or leadership team. Often hurtful issues are resolved once we see the other person’s perspective. Other times, we can’t resolve the problem. Still you set your heart free and dealt with the issue in a biblical way. Matthew 18:14-17 The Message gives us those guidelines.
15-17 “If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him—work it out between the two of you. If he listens, you’ve made a friend. If he won’t listen, take one or two others along so that the presence of witnesses will keep things honest, and try again. If he still won’t listen, tell the church. If he won’t listen to the church, you’ll have to start over from scratch, confront him with the need for repentance, and offer again God’s forgiving love.
10 I appeal to you, brothers and sisters,[a] in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. 1 Cor. 1:10
Pray—For what God wants you to do. Did He lead you to this church to make a difference or is He showing you it’s time to move on to another church more suited to you? But remember . . . you’re still taking you with all your expectations, personality traits, and past experiences into a new church.
I know none of these are easy, and I’m not suggesting anything I haven’t done, both as a church member and in a leadership role. I’ve been hurt, rejected, criticized, judged, disappointed, misunderstood, gossiped about . . . but I can honestly say, I’ve never considered leaving God’s church or the meeting together of His people.
I’ve had to confront, forgive, ask for forgiveness, consider the source, ignore. look objectively at myself to see if I needed to change, but mostly, ask God for guidance in how to rise above the issue and carry on joyfully loving His people, loving the lost, and loving serving Him.
24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Heb. 10:24
The heart of the people is the heart of the church.
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For tips on forgiveness and confronting those who have hurt you, I wrote a Bible study on this topic.
June 18, 2018
Why Is the Church Going Dark?
Crouch Community Church with the Light shining even on a cloudy day!
Recently, we visited a church, not too different from some other churches I’ve visited. Maybe this even describes your church.
It was dark! No windows and the only bright lights shining were on the stage. People entered the dimly lit, mostly dark, rows of chairs and found their seat. Some pulled out their cell phone and started texting.
I wondered, as I always do when I enter a similar church, will they turn up the lights so I can see my Bible when the sermon starts. They didn’t.
As we began to worship in song and the lyrics appeared on the screens, I had an epiphany from the Holy Spirit. The lyrics were much like this song “The Light in the Darkness,” which starts out like this:
In the beginning was the Word
The Word was with God and the Word was God
Through Him all things were made that have been made
In Him was Life and that Life was the Light of men
And the Light shone in the darkness
But it did not understand
The Light shone in the darkness
But it did not comprehend
That which we have heard and we have seen
This we proclaim to you concerning the Word of Life
This is message we have heard and declare to you
God is Light and in Him there’s no darkness at all
And the Light shines in the darkness
But it did not understand
The Light shines in the darkness
But it’s hard to comprehend
As the words kept flashing on the screen, I thought, Lord, why are we singing about you being the Light in the darkness while standing here in almost complete darkness? This just doesn’t seem right. You are the Light of the world. You tell us to go into the dark world and let our Christian light shine, and yet, we’re worshipping in a church enveloped in darkness!
Lord, You tell us to go into the dark world and let our Christian light shine, and yet, many…
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We continued singing in the dark . . .
The Word became flesh and dwells among us
We behold the glory of the only begotten Son
He has come full of love full of grace and truth
This is the message we proclaim to you
And the Light shines in your darkness
And we pray you understand
The Light shines in your darkness
And we pray you comprehend
The Light shines in the darkness
Ah but will you understand
The Light shines in the darkness
But will you comprehend
Will you comprehend
I pray you comprehend
I know many churches start out in movie theaters and office buildings, but the church we were in that Sunday morning looked like a new building.
I’ve heard the reasoning behind having the church dark is to draw the younger generation,
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I’ve also heard the reasoning behind having the church dark is to draw the younger generation, but this is not a concert setting, this is church! Why does the next generation want to sit in the dark?
Why does the next generation want to sit in the dark in church?
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The pastor was not a young pastor; he looked like he could be a grandpa.
When we returned to our home church, I loved worshipping in the sunlight streaming through the windows and looking at the clouds and blue sky through the window behind the log cross, built by one of our parishioners. And with the beautiful overhead lighting, I could see clearly my church family, and most importantly, the words in my Bible.
The side “walls” at Saddleback Church, (Pastor Rick Warren) where we were members for almost twenty-five years, are floor to ceiling windows, and the sanctuary well lit with overhead lights. When you walk in, you can clearly see fellow parishioners to greet them. There is no darkness. Even if you were feeling down when you entered, your spirits lift in the bright cheery atmosphere. People can actually sit outside and look through the windows to see the stage and hear through speakers.
They can see to read their Bibles, if they bring them.
Pastor Rick Warren preaching at Saddleback Church
Saddleback Church
With so many churches going dark today, I understand why people aren’t taking their Bibles to church. I recently wrote about this sad trend: Are Today’s Churches Discouraging Reading the Bible? Some comments mentioned they couldn’t read their Bible in church because it was so dark.
Some people don’t bring their Bibles to church because it’s too dark to read them.
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The word “light” appears 263 times in the NIV Bible.
Maybe I’m making too much of this, but I know it was the Holy Spirit nudging me to speak out as I stood in the dark, singing about the Light shining in the darkness. We know that “darkness” in the Bible refers to a culture or “world” that doesn’t know or worship God and His ways: anti-God.
But “God is never too exhausted by His Light to take care of the darkness,” Pastor Brian Smith. And neither should we be!
Scriptural darkness” is a culture that does not know or worship God and His ways
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I honestly don’t understand why churches are choosing to have dark sanctuaries. I would welcome a discussion to please enlighten me, and others who want to see clearly, when we go to church.
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Walk in the light because He is in the light!
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Saddleback sanctuary picture compliments of Jenne’ Blackburn
Pastor Rick Warren preaching, www.thechristianmail.com
I took the picture of CCC cross on a rainy day. You can imagine how beautiful it is with billowing clouds floating in a blue sky shining through the window above it.
June 11, 2018
Oh Be Careful Little Ears What You Hear!
My granddaughter and her friend picked out the DVD, Jumanji. I’d never heard of it. My mistake was not checking that it was PG 13 and reading the reason for that rating.
When we got home, the girls settled in to watch the movie and I started dinner. Not even fifteen minutes into it, I heard, “What the hxxx” three times and “Daxx.”
The girls were engrossed in the movie, but to their alarm, I walked over and turned it off. I took the opportunity for a teaching moment. I told them why I didn’t want them to watch it:
“We don’t say those words in our home so why would I want to bring them in through the TV. You’re at Vacation Bible School this week, have you heard anyone talking like that there? Do you think Jesus would use those words?”
Their protests were things like:
“We don’t say those words.”
My answer, “Not now, but if you hear them used enough you will, especially if no one tells you they’re wrong. They’ll become normalized to you.
“It’s a good movie.”
My Answer: “It’s just lazy writing and completely unnecessary. No movie is good that relies on bad words.”
They realized I wasn’t going to budge on this and quickly found something else to do. Our children need our guidance, consistency, and mentoring to learn right from wrong.
Our children need our guidance, consistency, and mentoring to learn right from wrong.
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We see bad language and worse in the media, talk shows, from bullying celebrities, TV, movies . . . people keep moving deeper and darker into vial, foul language because we let them. We pay to go watch movies where our ears, eyes, and minds are repeatedly assaulted. Disgusting profanity has become normal. Samantha Bee moved on to the cxxx word in assailing another woman because other profane words no longer cause a shock or reprimand.
It’s Just a Movie
I’m told that profanity is laced into PG 13 and even PG movies so adults will watch them! Seriously, adults need to hear potty mouth to watch a movie?! Have we sunk so low into a dark culture and society that without filth in a movie, adults won’t watch it?
And who decided that “some” nudity, sex scenes, profanity, and violence was acceptable for teenagers starting at thirteen? Why is the public OK with lowering that bar? Then we wonder why teenagers have potty mouths, sex, and are prone to violent acts!
Some will say, “They had to do that to depict how it really was.” So people really talk dirty when they’re fighting evil or saving the world or voicing an animated movie or in everyday life? Our son is an officer in the Navy and fighting for our country for over twenty years, and he doesn’t find it necessary to curse to save our country or “fit in.” I like to say, “He’s an officer and a gentleman!”
Or they try to rationalize: “Bad language was used to make a good point.”
As I told the girls, no good point ever comes from doing bad and vulgar things.
All attempts to justify viewing, maybe even laughing nervously, vulgar filth are empty rationalizations. Yes, I call it filth. But don’t just listen to me…what does God have to say about it? After all, we’re Christians so shouldn’t we be following God’s Word and His ways in our life and in what we teach our children by example of what we watch and say.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen . Ephesians 4:29
The Bible even goes so far as calling it a sin to listen to vulgar language. A wicked person listens to deceitful lips; a liar pays attention to a destructive tongue. Proverbs 17:4
We can carefully and lovingly teach our children not to sin:
We can carefully and lovingly teach our children not to sin:
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Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Proverbs 8:32
The Ephesians 5:1-14 Test
Run every movie you plan to see through the Ephesians 5:1-14 grid
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How about running every movie you plan to see through the Ephesians 5:1-14 grid.
10 Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. 11 Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. 12 It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. 13
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.
3 Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. 4 Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. 5 You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.
6 Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. 7 Don’t participate in the things these people do. 8 For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! 9 For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.
10 Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. 11 Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. 12 It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. 13 But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, 14 for the light makes everything visible.”
Is listening or saying profanity “following the example of Christ” (v. 2)?
Does the movie contain “sexual immorality, impurity, or greed? Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes”? According to God: “these are not for you . . . Such sins have no place among God’s people” (verses 3-4).
Are you thinking it’s just a movie and won’t influence my life? Think again—watching is participating: “Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. 7 Don’t participate in the things these people do” (verses 6-7).
How Does God Speak to Us?
“OMG” has become a slang phrase that you or your children might casually say or text as an exclamation. The only time “Oh my God” is appropriate is in worship and prayer. If it’s become a slang habit in your house, break it now. If you hear other people saying it, you can respond, “God is my Lord and Savior, is He yours too?”
“You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.” Exodus 20:7 NIV
Pay attention to what the Bible tells you whether you heard it in Sunday school or Vacation Bible School as a child, or learned later in life as a believer. You will NEVER find a verse that justifies listening to or saying profanity or taking the Lord’s name in vain.
You will NEVER find a Bible verse that justifies listening to or saying profanity or taking the…
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1-2 So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. Romans 12:1-2 The Message
Maybe some of you sang this Bible song as a child. We never outgrow its message. As adults, we probably need to sing it regularly.
As adults, we probably need to sing O Be Careful, Little Eyes what you see and ears what you hear!
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O Be Careful, Little Eye
O be careful little eyes what you see
O be careful little eyes what you see
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little eyes what you see
O be careful little ears what you hear
O be careful little ears what you hear
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little ears what you hear
O be careful little hands what you do
O be careful little hands what you do
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little hands what you do
O be careful little feet where you go
O be careful little feet where you go
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little feet where you go
O be careful little mouth what you say
O be careful little mouth what you say
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little mouth what you say
Oh be careful little ears what you hear
For the Father up above is looking down with love
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June 4, 2018
Watching Out for You
I’m back! Did you miss me? Above is a picture of my morning view while on vacation.
I certainly missed talking to you in my blog and reading your comments each week, but I have to admit the break was wonderful. After a refreshing vacation, I’m back in the office and back to writing.
You may have received emails from some of the sources you receive newsletters and blogs from about GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and Privacy Policy Notices, which went into effect May 25, 2018 in Europe. These regulations don’t specifically affect us in America as far as I can tell, but this is a good time to let you know our privacy policy at About His Work Ministries.
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See you next week, for my regularly scheduled blog post.
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May 7, 2018
How Should We Respond to Verbal Attacks?
If you read my post last week, Conservatives, Don’t Be Intimidated, you might have said to yourself, “That’s easier said than done. I’ve tried that before and have only received hurtful, vicious responses.” That’s probably true. Not everyone will be agreeable to, or tolerant of, our conservative opinions.
Not everyone will be agreeable to, or tolerant of, our conservative opinions.
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They may twist and turn what you say and spew anger and vitriol at you for even suggesting there is an opposing way of looking at our culture and values. Often, they project onto us what they would do and say, trying to discredit us.
If you’ve followed the recent vicious attack on Sarah Huckabee Sanders, a successful conservative Christian woman and White House Press Secretary, you saw a perfect example of how we should respond.
Sarah was invited to the White House Correspondents Assoc. dinner. They seated her on the dais for all to see her reaction to the filthy-mouthed woman they hired to say horrible, degrading, bullying things about Sarah.
Sarah sat through it all, even though she was only one chair way from the verbally abusive onslaught. Her face didn’t betray the hurt or disgust she must have been feeling. Can you imagine how her husband felt as he sat in the audience hearing his wife belittled and made fun of with crudeness, profanity, and attacks on her appearance and work? If you haven’t heard it, brace yourself and listen here, but make sure there are no children in the room.
These verses apply to Wolf’s attacks that were not jokes or funny:
You love evil more than good and lies more than truth. Psalm 52:3-4 (NLT)
You love to destroy others with your words . . . Psalm 52:4
It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth. Matthew 15:11
Some Christians have been supporting Michelle Wolf’s right to free speech and touting the 1st…
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Some Christians have been supporting Michelle Wolf’s right to free speech and touting the 1st Amendment. I would remind them what kind of language the Bible tells us to support and encourage:
Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29
Sarah, a mature Christian, applied the above verses to her gracious responses. Honestly, I don’t know if I could have been so composed or kind, but right after the event those who saw her said she didn’t talk about the attacks or act angry. She simply said she would pray for Wolf and enjoyed the rest of the evening.
Sarah Sanders simply said she would pray for Wolf and enjoyed the rest of the evening.
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Later that night, news personality Benny Johnson wrote on Facebook about Sarah’s response.
However, there is something you must know about Sarah Sanders: She is a better and bigger person than the sad leftists who attack her.
At the MSNBC after-party, I spoke with high-ranking members of Sarah’s staff. They were disgusted by the remarks – and tell me that the plan was for Sarah to walk-out if they got too personal. Sarah however, stayed firm. “I don’t know how she does it,” one of her closest confidants told me, “She kills them with kindness – she puts up with it. Good-hearted American people see that – and then she wins.”
Then, Sarah Sanders walks into the MSNBC party. A network that lives to savage and promote the godless vitriol that just attacked her. Guess what? Sarah Sanders was smiling. She owned it. I asked her about the attack and she shrugged with a smile and just said the attacks didn’t bother her and that she’s praying for the comedian.
That is the kind of woman she is.
Flying into a city to cheap-shot a working mother to her face in front of a room of one thousand journalists because you disagree with her politically is not brave. It’s the definition of a coward and a bully.
Putting up with it and forgiving that person afterward?
That is real power.
That is strength.
That is class.
That is Sarah Sanders.
When asked about the evening on Fox and Friends a few days later, Sarah responded that what Wolf said reflects more about Wolf than about Sanders, and she hopes that Wolf can find the happiness she herself has found.
Sarah Sanders hopes that Wolf can find the happiness she herself has found.
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But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me.[a] 14 So don’t worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, 15 for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you! Luke 21:13-15 (NLT)
Sarah Huckabee Sanders gave us the best demonstration of how God wants us to respond to those who…
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So how should we respond to verbal attacks? Sarah Huckabee Sanders has given us the best demonstration of how God wants us to respond.
“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’[a] and hate your enemy.44 But I say, love your enemies![b] Pray for those who persecute you! 45 In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. 46 If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. 47 If you are kind only to your friends,[c]how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. 48 But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:43-48
Speak the truth in love, but speak the truth!
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There won’t be a Monday Morning Blog for the rest of the month. Enjoy May, and I’ll be back with you in June.
April 30, 2018
Conservatives, Don’t Be Intimidated!
“I haven’t done enough research on conservatives to call myself or be called one. I’m just refusing to be enslaved by monolithic thought. There are people around me that disagree with me and voice their opinion. I respect everyone’s opinion but I stand my ground.” Kanye West
“My definition of conservative is having the audacity to believe what your grandma taught you!” Kay Cole Jones, President of the Heritage Foundation
On our recent trip to Southern California, we met some former neighbors at a favorite coffee place in Orange County. Since we were all Christians and conservative Trump supporters, the conversation quickly turned to our faith, FOX News, President Trump, and the California liberal progressive government. We sat at an outside table, prayed together over our meal, talked openly, and enjoyed each other’s company.
Without warning, a husky man came up behind Dave and me. I saw him lean into Dave and stick out his hand. We were all surprised, until it registered that this was another good friend of ours. After we exchanged conversation and our friend left, the neighbor we were having breakfast with said that as he saw the man approaching us, he feared that he was coming to yell at us . . . or even worse . . . regarding our conversation.
Intimidated, fearful, apprehensive is exactly how many conservatives are feeling today, especially in liberal states and college campuses. Many liberals use bullying tactics to quiet conservatives and instill fear rather than encouraging an honest open debate. Or just allow us to have our opinions without trying to demonize, bully, or call us names!
Many liberals use bullying tactics to quiet conservatives and instill fear rather than encouraging…
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So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
I don’t know of many conservatives who would approach a group of liberals at a meal or in a public place and start shouting at them or calling them names, as many liberals do with conservatives. Their goal is not to convert us, but to silence us. Even if convinced they’re right and we’re wrong, no one has the right to use scare tactics, or even force. Try wearing a Make America Great Again or Trump hat or T-shirt and see what happens.
Government Tries to Intimidate Us
Sadly, many governments, like California, are supporting the liberal agenda and trying to quiet or eliminate conservative and religious rights. Often conservatives are letting them, accepting it as the new normal.
Many governments, like California, are supporting the liberal agenda and trying to quiet or…
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One California couple, the Fromms in San Juan Capistrano, were fined by the city for having a Bible study in their home, but they’re not backing down or acquiescing to the attempt to stop their home meetings because one neighbor complained. You can read more of their story in this news clip.
“We will stand up for our faith and for the use of our home.”
While we were in California, the state Assembly approved Assembly Bill 2943 that prohibits the advertising or selling of “sexual orientation change efforts.” The bill declares books and conferences dealing with biblical views on homosexuality or transgenderism as fraudulent under the state’s consumer fraud statute. Ultimately, it could penalize those who encourage and promote biblical views of marriage and sex.
That means the Bible!
Thankfully, before it goes before the California Senate, many Christians are rallying together to stop it. From an article by Emily Jones, Will California Ban The Bible? Christians Say ‘Not Without a Fight’ “There are churches that want to have everyone in their congregation making phone calls to their state senators. And there are also some people who want to have effective and persuasive news conferences.
Christians need to be stronger, bolder, and tougher if we plan to defend our faith and the right to…
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Sadly, discrimination is not just happening in California, but we must NOT let this become our new American normal. The Bible tells us that in the last days Christians and God’s Word will come under attack and persecution, but the Bible does NOT tell us to acquiesce under any circumstances. We need to be stronger, bolder, and tougher if we plan to defend our faith and the right to live by our values, morals, and beliefs. We need to be thick-skinned and never shrink from the Truth and our right to speak it.
The Bible tells us that in the last days Christians and God’s Word will come under attack and…
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Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:10-12
Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. 2 Peter 3:3
We can’t shrink away from the attacks and threats on our faith and beliefs,
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Social Media Tries to Intimidate Us!
We can’t shrink away from the attacks and threats on our faith and beliefs, but we must fight . . . not like liberals fight . . . but with our voices, social media, calling and emailing congressmen, supporting and voting for those who represent the conservative agenda, blogging, using whatever platform God gives us, and covering it all in prayer.
I know it’s getting harder as social media and YouTube are trying to censor the conservative or Christian voice. Trump supporters Diamond and Silk went in front of Congress to voice their complaint of Facebook and YouTube censoring them because of their vocal support for President Trump. It was appalling to see how the Democrats in Congress dismissed and patronized them. But they aren’t staying silent and their voices are being heard.
Maybe we don’t have a platform like Diamond and Silk, or Kanye West, but we can do our part . . . without intimidation . . . wherever the Lord plants us.
In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:12-15
Do not be afraid!
Do not stay quiet!
Do not be intimidated or dismissed!
Do not accept sin as normal!
Do let your conservative Christian voice be heard!
Do adhere to what you know is right!
Do be willing to sacrifice!
Do stand up for what you believe!
Do stay strong in the Word!
The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. 23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” Matthew 13:20-25
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April 16, 2018
Social Justice Is NOT the Gospel
Billy Graham, one of the greatest evangelical pastors, never forgot his mission to preach the gospel!
I was praying about what to write as a follow up to last week’s blog post, Are Today’s Churches Discouraging Reading of the Bible? Did you notice it didn’t reach you until Tuesday, instead of Monday? Neither I nor my amazing web designer could find a logical reason. We both agreed the evil one didn’t want it to go out because I was encouraging Christians to read their Bibles and take them to church! If you haven’t read it, I hope you will now.
“How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
By living according to your word.” Psalm 119:9
This week’s blog is on another controversial topic, although it shouldn’t be controversial. The Christian community should all agree with The National Associate of Evangelicals statement below . . . but sadly they don’t.
Evangelicals take the Bible seriously and believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
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“Evangelicals take the Bible seriously and believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The term “evangelical” comes from the Greek word euangelion, meaning “the good news” or the “gospel.” Thus, the evangelical faith focuses on the “good news” of salvation brought to sinners by Jesus Christ.
Evangelicals are a vibrant and diverse group, including believers found in many churches,
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“Evangelicals are a vibrant and diverse group, including believers found in many churches, denominations and nations [I would add, and different races]. Our community brings together Reformed, Holiness, Anabaptist, Pentecostal, Charismatic and other traditions. Our core theological convictions provide unity in the midst of our diversity. The NAE Statement of Faith offers a standard for these evangelical convictions.
“Historian David Bebbington also provides a helpful summary of evangelical distinctives, identifying four primary characteristics of evangelicalism:
Conversionism: the belief that lives need to be transformed through a “born-again” experience and a life long process of following Jesus
Activism: the expression and demonstration of the gospel in missionary and social reform efforts
Biblicism: a high regard for and obedience to the Bible as the ultimate authority
Crucicentrism: a stress on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross as making possible the redemption of humanity
Theological convictions define evangelicals — not political, social or cultural trends.
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“These distinctives and theological convictions define us — not political, social or cultural trends. In fact, many evangelicals rarely use the term “evangelical” to describe themselves, focusing simply on the core convictions of the triune God, the Bible, faith, Jesus, salvation, evangelism and discipleship.”—What Is An Evangelical, National Associate of Evangelicals. (Emphasis added)
I want to focus on two statements from the above quote:
“Our core theological convictions provide unity in the midst of our diversity.”
Recently, I read comments by a well-known popular Christian speaker/author. I had to re-read to make sure it wasn’t a liberal media post. She used terms like racism, misogyny, bigotry, white evangelicals and leaders, and attributed these issues to the last eighteen months, apparently referring to President Trump’s presidency.
I was offended by the use of liberal accusations, but especially the term “white evangelicals.” These are things progressive liberals are falsely accusing conservatives of promoting, and here was a “white evangelical Christian” with a large platform throwing barbs at fellow believers. How much more divisive can you be? Promoting disunity, not unity, in the Christian community.
Reading the above NAE definition of evangelicals, it never refers to race or skin color, just the opposite. We’ve heard “white” thrown around lately, almost as a slur. Liberals are finding offense with anything “whites” do, including being a white male! Reverse racism. The hypocrisy is that it’s usually said by white Caucasians!
“These distinctives and theological convictions define us — not political, social, or cultural trends.”
The core and single purpose of evangelism is sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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The core and single purpose of evangelism is sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without Christ, social justice is meaningless—a political talking point.
Without Christ, social justice is meaningless—a political talking point.
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The progressive view adopted by many prominent Christians today has been labeled by the culture as the “Social Justice Movement.” When evangelicals, regardless of skin color, forget that their ministry and mission is sharing the gospel with a lost world, they’ve lost their way.
When evangelicals forget their ministry and mission is sharing the gospel with a lost world,…
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Bryce Young wrote in his article, Only Christians Understand True Social Justice
Social justice is not the gospel. Social justice is not even the main aim of the gospel — it’s not why Christ died and rose again. But at the same time, true social justice is impossible for any but those who have believed the gospel message.
Those who have been justified by faith should be the most passionate about God’s justice because we can ask for it with our eyes wide open. Only the justified can ask for God’s justice to fall on the abortion industry, and racial inequality, and domestic abusers, and those who grow rich through deceit — only the justified can ask for God to show justice “out there” — without the hypocrisy of hoping that he won’t see my impatience, my lust, my hidden prejudice, my love of comfort. “[These] he set aside, nailing [them] to the cross” (Colossians 2:14).
The Cross represents “social justice,” not the kind batted around today as a “movement.”
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The Cross represents God’s social justice against sin, not the “social justice” batted around today as a “movement.” Sinners hung on either side of Jesus who didn’t care about their nationality, race, skin color, or gender. The distinguishing factor of who would be with Him in Paradise that night was whether they believed He was the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. One spit at Him and the other confessed his sins, repented, and believed! That’s all it took for the believing criminal’s sins to be forgiven and receive eternal life. Gospel justice!
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.” John 5:24 ESV
Women stood at the bottom of the cross. Not demanding their “rights” or social justice, but only to worship and grieve Jesus. The first recorded woman evangelist was the Samaritan woman at the well who ran and told everyone about Jesus and, “Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I ever did.’” John 4:39
That’s what Jesus wants women, and all Christians, to do: share the gospel, while there is still time. NOT taking sides on man’s definition of political “social justice.” The “right” Christian women should be concerned about is the right to share the gospel!
Jesus is the definition of justice for all people!
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Jesus is the definition of justice for all people!
Today the hot topic is whether or not the Russians interfered with the presidential election. It’s clear that their only purpose was to create division in America, and they succeeded.
Satan wants to do the same with Christians today! Create division among evangelicals, who take their focus off spreading the Good News and join the cultural/political “social justice movement” criticizing conservative evangelicals.
Our one mission and focus should be sharing Jesus with a lost world and supporting those in government and lawmakers who don’t hinder that cause, but support our right to do so freely.
And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
He [Jesus] said to them, “God into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” Mark 16:15-16
“A majority my rule in the culture, but in your personal life, there should be only one ruler—and that’s God. It makes no difference if 10,000 people [or 10 million people] tell you what you ought to do. Once you have decided to follow the Lord, it’s best to stand right where you are until you get marching orders from Him.” Dr. Charles Stanley
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April 9, 2018
Are Today’s Churches Discouraging Reading the Bible?
At the beginning of the sermon, a Bible church pastor said to raise your hand if you needed a Bible and you could keep it if you didn’t have one. No one raised his or her hand.
Every sermon Scripture was in a printed handout in the church bulletin, as well as on the screens at the front of the church. Why would anyone need a Bible?
Congregants are spoon-fed Scriptures with no reason to bring their Bibles to church!
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This is becoming the norm in churches. Congregants are spoon-fed Scriptures with no reason to bring their Bibles to church!
How many make a note somewhere when a particular Scripture pierces their heart?
How many will remember the Scriptures flashing up on a screen?
How many will throw away the bulletin handout when they get home?
How many will go back and review and study the Scriptures the pastor chose for his sermon?
How many open their Bibles during the week?
How many know where the books of the Bible are located?
Can churches still be called “Bible churches” when no one opens a Bible, even the pastor?
Can churches still be called “Bible churches” when no one opens a Bible, even the pastor?
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I’m sure many will counter that with tablets, IPads, and smart phones, the Scriptures are available online. What if a church doesn’t have internet service? And even if they did, I seldom see congregants interacting and taking notes on their electronic devices like you can do with a hard copy Bible.
Recently, I was told the next generation only wants to use electronic Bibles. “What if they don’t know where Habakkuk is?” I was asked. “In ‘search,’ it’s easy to find on an electronic Bible.”
This underscores my point. The next generation will not know how to find Habakkuk in a Bible because they’re not looking at the complete Bible on an electronic device. That’s like looking at one line in a book you’re reading, but never read the entire book. Every Bible has a Table of Contents.
The next generation will not know how to find Habakkuk, or any book of the Bible, because they’re…
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My counter to what the next generation wants: What are we told to do in the Bible? Give them just what they want, the way they want it? Or are we to mentor them using God’s Word and teach them the value of knowing their Bible, God’s Word, and how to use it for their own personal relationship with the Lord.
We’re to mentor using God’s Word and teach the next generation the value of knowing their Bible
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“When we want to find God’s will, it is essential that we know our Bible. After all, God will never lead one of His followers to do anything that is contrary to the Scriptures. That’s one reason Paul exhorted us believers to “let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom” (Colossians 3:16). When we know Christ, are being led by His Spirit, and are abiding in His Word, we will be more sensitive to God’s guidance in our life. “Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths” (Psalm 25:4). (The Believer’s Code, O. S. Hawkins, April 3).
There is absolutely a place for electronic Bibles for reaching those doing online studies or aren’t in an area where they can obtain a Bible, but reading and interacting with God’s Word is about a relationship, not research. It’s not just randomly looking up a Scripture; it’s interacting and interfacing with the entire Bible. If you have a close relationship with someone, would you be satisfied with one or two lines on social media, or would you want to get to know them personally?
Knowing your Bible isn’t just randomly looking up a Scripture; it’s interacting and interfacing…
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I realize it’s important to reach the younger generation where they’re at, and some might accept Christ without a Bible in their hand because the Holy Spirit does not send out the Word of God void (Isaiah 55:11). But what about those of us called to mentor them into maturity in their faith? Shouldn’t we help them get to know their Bible? Help them learn how to go to God’s Word in context as a guide for living the Christian life so they can say, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sing against you” (Psalm 119:11).
Let’s never portray the Bible as intimidating, but proclaim the Bible as inspiring!
Never portray the Bible as intimidating, proclaim the Bible as inspiring!
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A note to parents: If you only read your Bible on an electronic device, how do your children know you’re not checking email, social media, or playing a game?
Taking our precious Bibles to church, looking up Scriptures, writing notes in our Bible, reading our Bibles . . . sets a godly role model for those watching us, as we grow in our maturity and relationship with the Lord.
I don’t see mature believers with their Bibles in church or even using an electronic Bible.
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Honestly, I often don’t see mature believers with their Bibles in church or even using an electronic Bible. What kind of example does that set? We never reach a place in our faith, where we know it all. God’s Word is new every morning and every reading.
I was recently at the Billy Graham library where his Bibles were on display with all his notes in the margins. A legacy of interaction with the Word of God, and with God.
If we want to grow in our love for the Lord, we must draw near to Him through His Word. As we learn to know Him intimately, our love will increase and we’ll desire to obey. Unless we invest in Scripture, our fervor for the Lord will fall short of what it could be.
And if you ever feel disappointed that your love for Christ seems small, open the Word of God and obey whatever He says, He will abide with you and disclose Himself, thereby increasing your capacity to love and know Him more. Dr. Charles Stanley, In Touch Magazine, April 3, 2018 (emphasis added).
I’m fortunate to attend a church where people still bring their Bibles. The pastor puts the Scripture reference in the handout notes, but not the Scripture. He encourages everyone to look them up, and he waits to give them a chance. What a blessing to hear the pages of Bibles turning. What joy this must bring to the Lord. Yes, the Scriptures are also on the screens and some don’t look up the Scriptures in a Bible.
My point: If you want to hear God, you need to engage with Him through a vital way He communicates, His Word, the Holy Bible.
If you want God to speak, you need to engage with Him through His Word!
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Flashing Scriptures on a screen, reading on an electronic device, or printing them in a handout that often gets tossed, will never replace knowing the written Word of God.
A revealing of Jesus, the Messiah. God gave it to make plain to his servants what is about to happen. He published and delivered it by Angel to his servant John. And John told everything he saw: God’s Word— the witness of Jesus Christ!
3 How blessed the reader! How blessed the hearers and keepers of these oracle words, all the words written in this book!
Time is just about up. Revelation 1:1-3 The Message
After you pray and ask God what He thinks, let me know what He says to you.
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April 2, 2018
Liz Curtis Higgs Reminds Us: God Is More Faithful Than the Pizza Man
Did you notice there wasn’t a Monday Morning Blog from me last week? It’s Ok if you didn’t miss it. I had a short turnaround from speaking in South Carolina and heading off to Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference in Scotts Valley, California, where I had the honor and privilege of being on the faculty. As I prepared for teaching and packing, something had to give. The blog post. I know you’ll forgive me and maybe even congratulate me for pacing myself.
The conference was amazing! The theme was BOLD: “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold” 2 Cor. 3:12. God’s presence boldly permeated every area of the conference grounds and every aspect of the activities.
The theme of Mount Hermon Writers Conferece was BOLD: “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold”…
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A special treat was having award-winning author and speaker Liz Curtis Higgs as our keynote speaker. Liz presents her godly bold messages with humor, passion, and love. I had heard her speak at Mount Hermon before and knew we’d be in for a treat. But I also knew something would be different about Liz this year. I even wondered if she would be able to still speak at the conference.
Liz was wearing a wig and needed her husband to help her on and off the stage. She sat on a stool while speaking instead of roaming around the stage. Precious Liz recently completed surgery, radiation, and chemo for endometrial cancer. Thinking all was well and on the road to recovery, her doctors assured her a routine cat scan would reveal the cancer eradicated.
But that was not the case. While Liz was on chemo, a cancerous tumor continued to grow. Apparently, she is resistant to a platinum component of the “chemo cocktail.” Liz is not cancer free. She also has neuropathy in her feet making it difficult to stand. Yet, in three worship services, Liz shared her trademark message of God’s hope and faithfulness through laughter and tears . . . ours and hers.
Liz Curtis Higgs refers to her cancer as, “An unexpected journey toward hope.”
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When you look at Liz’s face in pictures taken while she was speaking, you see joy, smiles, peace, and faith. She refers to her cancer as, “An unexpected journey toward hope.”
God is more faithful than the pizza man!–Liz Curtis Higgs
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Which brings me to the topic of this blog: God is more faithful than the pizza man! I’ll try to paraphrase Liz’s points, and now that you know a little bit about what she’s going through, I assure you it will have even more meaning.
“Lizzie’s” Faith Message
Liz recounted for us something we’ve all done repeatedly: called the pizza man to order a pizza delivered. Usually, we don’t know the person at the other end of the line taking our order, and we don’t know the delivery man or girl. Yet, with faith and trust, we hang up the phone, no doubts that a pizza will soon be delivered to our doorstep. We have faith in the pizza man.
When the doorbell rings we don’t question, “Oh, I wonder who that could be?” We’re sure that a hot pizza is awaiting us when we open the door. We even have payment and a tip ready for the delivery person, or in faith, we gave the pizza man our credit card number over the phone.
When we open the door, we’re not shocked or exclaiming, “What a miracle!!! The pizza I ordered arrived!”
True, we might get pepperoni instead of sausage, but we never question, worry, or fret over whether or not the pizza is coming. We wait expectantly, ready to receive it from a stranger.
Now, contrast when we offer a prayer request to God, who isn’t a stranger and we know Him intimately. He’s proven to us over and over again that He hears our prayers and will answer in His timing and according to His will.
Yet, we often question, worry, and fret whether our Lord and Savior will actually show up at our…
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Yet, we often question, worry, and fret whether our Lord and Savior will actually show up at our doorstep. And when He does, we’re shocked. “What a miracle!” we proclaim, as if we didn’t really have faith that He would come through for us . . . again.
Do we take time to thank God, like we thank and tip the pizza delivery person?
We trust the pizza man more than we trust God.
I say “we” because I’m right there with you if you’ve ever doubted God would really answer your prayers. And even though He’s repeatedly proven to be faithful throughout my lifetime, I wonder if I’ve reached my quota of requests.
My Recent Faith Journey
2017 was not a good year for me. If you follow my blogs, you know I wasn’t able to travel and speak due to health issues, as I wrote about in the May 1, 2017 blog, I Didn’t See This Coming. I wondered if the Lord was closing the speaking door. Then in the fall, I received several speaking requests for 2018 and the invitation to teach at Mount Hermon.
My first speaking event of 2018 was in Simpsonville, SC in early March. I wondered if I would still feel comfortable on the stage speaking. Was it like riding a bike? Would it all come back to me? I prayed and agonized before the Lord until I heard Him say, I release you to go back out and share My message. I wouldn’t send you anywhere that I haven’t equipped you to go.
My husband was with me on that speaking trip and he marveled that it was as if I’d never been on a speaking sabbatical. When I took the microphone, I knew I was back. I gave God all the glory for using me as His servant voice again.
God is so much more faithful than the pizza man!
As an attendee learning how to write at this conference for ten years, serving on Mount Hermon’s faculty was a distant dream. Then big surprise, last fall I received the invitation to lead a main track Mentoring Clinic on Writing Your Personal Story and Memoir and a workshop on Writing Engaging Bible Studies.
After I said, “Absolutely,” doubt plagued me. Would I be worthy? Did I know enough to help aspiring writers like I had been helped? Who was I to accept this tremendous responsibility? Again, I heard God’s reassuring whisper, I wouldn’t send you anywhere that I haven’t equipped you to go.
The experience was beyond anything I could imagine. I knew from the first morning of the mentoring clinic, this was exactly where I was supposed to be, at that time, and in that place.
This picture of my “mentees” on the last day of our memoir writing mentoring clinic shows that my Lord was faithful to them and to me.
God is truly more faithful than the pizza man.
I’m on a very expensive medication, the sixth one after others have failed or given me horrendous side effects, and we’ve reached the end of options. Insurance only gave me a good rate for four months, then what? My doctor said, “Don’t worry, let me worry about it.” His office staff said, “Don’t worry, we’ll come up with something.” My husband said, “Don’t worry, we’ll figure it out.” But I worried.
After much pleading with the insurance company, I learned of a program for this medication that if I qualified, it would be FREE! My doctor and I filled out the application and faxed it to the company. This time, I trusted God to figure out a way, even if I wasn’t accepted into the program. I heard God clearly say, Don’t worry. I have many more plans for you and I’m on it.
I trusted that God was more faithful than the pizza man.
I gave it over to Him, even when the 24-48 hours they said I would know the answer turned into 10 days. Then I got the call. I was prepared for the answer, either way it went, because I knew God would figure something out for me.
I was approved. I cried. I praised God and gave Him all the glory to the point that the woman on the other end of the phone was starting to cry too and said, “Yes,” every time I praised God.
Your Turn to Trust God More Than the Pizza Man
So now it’s your turn. Even in the face of cancer that didn’t respond to treatment, Liz Curtis Higgs can say . . .
As I’ve walked out my cancer journey this year, strengthened by your prayers, I’ve learned that everything the Bible says about God is the absolute truth. He is exceedingly faithful and endlessly merciful, “keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments” (Deuteronomy 7:9). Liz Curtis Higgs
What do you need to trust God with?
Where do you need to believe like “Lizzie” and me that God truly is more faithful than the pizza man?
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14
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Thank you to Karen Barnett and Jenn Fries for pictures of Liz Curtis Higgs.
Liz Curtis Higgs and Mount Hermon friend and author, Jenn Fries
March 19, 2018
Protect Our Children from Groupthink!
I woke up the morning after the school walkout and wondered,
How did the word about this walkout at a specific time and date spread to children in schools across the nation?
Yes, they’re on social media, but not every kid could be reached that way?
Whose original idea was it?
Who organized it?
Who took it to my grandchildren’s middle school?
Pondering these questions, I made a cup of coffee and opened up the online FOX news page. There was the answer to all my questions. I had missed the Laura Ingraham’s show the previous night where this was the topic of her opening monologue.
Then, it all made sense.
Teenagers don’t have the capability to pull off a national walkout, but politicians and the…
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Teenagers wouldn’t have that capability on their own to pull off such a national event, but politicians and organizations like the Women’s March do! They organized the walkout.
I wonder how many of the boys who participated realized they were being manipulated by liberal women who march in pink hats?
The Women’s March formed Women’s March Youth Empower indoctrinating our children with liberal…
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Remember the Women’s March group? Well, they also have an arm called Women’s March Youth Empower and they’re going after our children with their liberal views. Not just girls, which is bad enough, but all children.
You don’t have to look far back in history, or even today, to see other radical groups who indoctrinate the young.
March 14, our children and grandchildren were manipulated by politicians and the Women’s March
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March 14th, our children and grandchildren were manipulated by a liberal activist group and politicians, who used the kid’s naïvetés and youthful emotion and energy to further their political agenda.
If you look at clips on Laura Ingraham’s report, you’ll see left-wing politicians like Nancy Pelosie and Bernie Sanders speaking, and New York’s liberal Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Chuck Shummer clapping hands, chanting, and high fiving the students in front of the White House. Of course, they all had their armed bodyguards! Local liberal politicians and school administrators and teachers promoted the walkout in their district schools.
This walkout was supposed to be seventeen minutes to honor the seventeen lives lost in the Parkland, FL. tragic school shooting a month ago. But I didn’t hear or see any news clips recognizing these victims. The purpose of the walkout was lost amongst yelling and political rhetoric. Interestingly, no one protested the FBI or local sheriff’s department for ignoring all the obvious clues and warnings of impending tragedy.
The purpose of the walkout was lost amongst yelling and political rhetoric.
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In many cases, the walkout went on for hours and was more of a political, anti-Trump rally. In California, it even turned violent. How ironic is that . . . a protest to find ways to be safe, results in causing danger!
Walk Up, Not Out
And the walkout wasn’t just in high schools. To my daughter’s surprise, she received a text from my 12-year old, middle school granddaughter Katelyn asking if she should walkout. Mom realized they should have talked about it the night before, but Kim never expected it to touch middle schools. Here’s a transcript of their texts and see below it for the challenge mom gave daughter:
Here was the Walk-Up challenge posted on Facebook by Amy Flynn that mom gave to Katelyn and she refers to in the above text:
On March 14, encourage students to walk up. Walk up to the kid who sits alone at lunch and invite her to sit with you. Walk up to the kid who sits quietly in the corner, smile and say hi. Walk up to the kid who may be disruptive in class and ask him how he’s doing. Walk up to teachers and school staff and say thank you. Walk up to someone who has different views than you and get to know him/her. Walk up to 14 students and 3 teachers and say something kind. Honor the lives of those lost by walking up, not out.#walkupnotout
One of Katelyn’s teachers read this aloud to the whole class!
Katelyn and her friend took the challenge, and they complimented eight kids and two teachers!
The girls had the courage not to follow the crowd and submit to groupthink. They walked up instead of out.
Tucker Carlson “The show that is the sworn enemy of lying, pomposity, smugness, and group…
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The theme of Tucker Carlson’s program on FOX news is, “The show that is the sworn enemy of lying, pomposity, smugness, and groupthink.” He often emphasizes, “Especially groupthink!” Ah, that every parent would incorporate this motto into their family values.
Katelyn said most of the kids just hung out with their friends and were looking for a way to get out of class.
Walk With God
Laura Ingraham shared conversations from her radio program where some parochial schools walked into churches to pray for the victims and their families.
Here’s how one group of school kids chose to make a difference in schools and our culture. Click on this link. Watch and be inspired!
Whether or not you agree with more gun control or kids protesting, who do you think will have the most positive effect on our culture? Kids who, walk out or kids who walk up, in, and with?
“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Matthew 18:6
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Picture courtesy of Amy Flynn posed on Facebook
