Cathy Bryant's Blog: CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog, page 29

B2B: Read the Instructions!

To continue our Back to Basics (B2B) blog series, today I’d like to talk about instructions.

While I want to believe that not stopping to ask for directions or not reading the instructions is a problem for the male gender only, in truth, all humans have trouble with this. We stumble around, lost in a fog, wondering why things are falling apart around us. But have we taken time to read the instructions?

Ever take one of those quizzes that tells you to carefully read the entire test before you begin? And after you’ve labored over the quiz for most of the class period, you reach the last section only to realize that it says something to the effect of: “If you followed these instructions, you do not have to complete any of this quiz.”

Instructions – The Bible

I often hear people say, “If only life came with instructions.”

It does! It’s called the Bible! Yet even among believers, we often don’t seek answers for our problems among its pages.

And many times the issue isn’t that we don’t know what the Bible says. Instead our problem lies in choosing not to follow the instructions.

Instructions – Spiritual Weaponry for Life’s Battles

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12, NASB)

We must read and apply God’s Word if we are to most closely live in the way in which God desires and in which we will be most effective for His Kingdom.

In case you haven’t noticed, there’s a battle going on all around us. One part of our spiritual equipment is “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:17, NIV) How can we expect to effectively go to war with the forces of evil (within, without, and the evil one) unless we appropriate our weapon?

Instructions – Light For the Journey

In truth, it is totally unnecessary for us to stumble around in the dark. God’s Word gives us all the light we could ever need.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105, KJV)

Instructions – Action Points

If you’re not already following a Bible reading plan, then I highly encourage you to do so. Simply Google “Bible Reading Plans” to find the one right for you.
While I personally believe in starting off my day with reading the Bible and prayer, that might not work for you and your schedule. What truly matters is that you read God’s Word, even if you have to read it in spurts throughout the day.
Do all you can to read your Bible through every year. Since it is active and living, the Holy Spirit will give you fresh meaning for your particular needs with each read-through. Look at it as ammunition, guidance, and spiritual food for each day of your life.
It’s all-too-easy (especially for us Type-A personalities) to let our reading of God’s Word become routine and just another thing we check off our to-do lists. Let’s make a conscious effort to not just read the Bible as an obligation, but as words of life to ponder and apply.

Father, thank You for the light and instruction and weaponry against evil that Your Word is. Help us to devour Your Word on a daily basis that we might be better equipped to serve you and others in love. In the name of Jesus who is the Word of life, Amen.

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B2B: What’s Your Why?

In this Back to Basics (B2B) blog series, the first question I want to ask myself is “WHY?”.

First Question: Why?

If my motivation is wrong, everything else will be wrong as well. The what, where, when, how, and who of my Christian walk will be out of whack if the why of my Christian walk is out of whack.

What Is Our ‘Why’?

So according to God’s Word, what is to be my why?

“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:36-40, NASB)

Our Motivation – Love

If my motivation in serving the Lord isn’t based on my wholehearted love for Him and my fellow man, then nothing else will be right. If my decisions aren’t based on this same love for God and man, then my decisions will be wrong. If my actions and behavior aren’t done out of love for God and man, my actions and behavior are worthless.

Paul put it this way: If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:1-3, NASB)

Peter put it this way: Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8, NIV)

John said this: Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. (1 John 4:7-8, NIV)

And Jesus, in the short amount of time He had left with His disciples before He went to the cross, had this to say–not just once–but multiple times: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35, NASB)

“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.” (John 15:12, NASB)

“This I command you, that you love one another.” (John 15:17, NASB)

Most of the problems in our lives can be traced back to an honest evaluation of the question ‘why?’ Simply put, if the motivation behind our actions isn’t love, we’re on the wrong track.

Love – What It Is

I think it’s worth noting that love is a verb. It’s more than just an emotion or warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s more than just something you say. Instead it’s expressed in action. To say you love someone means proving it by what you do.

Action Points

Through prayer, let us examine our motives.
If wholehearted love for God and for all mankind isn’t our motivation, we must make the necessary changes. God’s Spirit within believers can and will empower us to make these changes.

Father God, thank You for Your Word. It is a mirror by which we see the right way to live and how we fall short. Give us courage to examine our hearts for the motivation behind all that we do. Convict us in those areas where we aren’t loving. Enable us to make necessary changes so we can be the disciples You’ve called us to be. Turn our hearts to You, so that the underlying motive in all we do is love. Amen.

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Back to Basics (B2B)

Through my earthly experience, I’ve learned that when life starts to fall apart, my best response is to turn to the Lord. Impossible situations aren’t impossible with Him. And more often than not, I find myself in need of a return to the basics of faith–Christianity 101, if you will.

B2B – Milk or Meat?

It’s a sad place to be, really.

The writer of Hebrews puts this spiritual condition in these words: For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food.

(Hebrews 5:12, NASB)

B2B – Focus on Jesus

At the same time, it’s never a bad thing to lay our hearts before our Creator for a good old spiritual check-up. In fact, He is right where our focus needs to be. Remember the story of impetuous Peter wanting to walk on water?

Peter said to Him, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” And He said, “Come!” And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and *said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly God’s Son!” (Matthew 14:28-33, NASB)

When we keep our eyes on Jesus, the impossible becomes possible. When we put our eyes on the storm (AKA, the problems), we start to sink.

B2B – Upcoming Series

Over the next few posts, I feel led by God’s Spirit to cover the familiar ground of the basic tenets of faith. My prayer is that my humble efforts will help us all be reminded of what is needed in our relationship with the Lord, with others, and in our personal lives.

B2B – Action Points

Please pray that I’ll be receptive to what the Lord wants me to say and both bold and humble in my approach.
Please open your heart to what God is saying to you personally.
Please consider how He wants you to live out what you hear Him saying.

Lord God, forgive Me for taking my eyes off You and putting them on problems instead. Help me adequately express in helpful words what needs to be said in these posts on a return to the basics. May we all seek to follow You with all that we are. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.

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BOOK REVIEW: “Radical” by David Platt

Radical – About The Book

WHAT IS JESUS WORTH TO YOU?



It’s easy for American Christians to forget how Jesus said his followers would actually live, what their new lifestyle would actually look like. They would, he said, leave behind security, money, convenience, even family for him. They would abandon everything for the gospel. They would take up their crosses daily…

BUT WHO DO YOU KNOW WHO LIVES LIKE THAT? DO YOU?

In Radical, David Platt challenges you to consider with an open heart how we have manipulated the gospel to fit our cultural preferences. He shows what Jesus actually said about being his disciple–then invites you to believe and obey what you have heard. And he tells the dramatic story of what is happening as a “successful” suburban church decides to get serious about the gospel according to Jesus.

Finally, he urges you to join in The Radical Experiment — a one-year journey in authentic discipleship that will transform how you live in a world that desperately needs the Good News Jesus came to bring.

Radical – About the Author

David Platt is deeply devoted to Christ and His Word. David’s first love in ministry is disciple-making – the simple, biblical model of teaching God’s Word, mentoring others and sharing faith. He has traveled extensively to teach the Bible alongside church leaders throughout the United States and around the world. Atlanta natives, he and his wife Heather, made their home in New Orleans, until they were displaced by flooding following Hurricane Katrina, in 2005. In 2006 David became the Pastor of The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama.A life-long learner, David has earned two undergraduate and three advanced degrees. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (A.B.J.) from the University of Georgia, and a Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theology (Th.M) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He has previously served at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary as Dean of Chapel and Assistant Professor of Expository Preaching and Apologetics, and as Staff Evangelist at Edgewater Baptist Church in New Orleans. David has written two books, The New York Times Bestseller “Radical – Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream” and “Radical Together – Unleashing the People of God for the Purpose of God.” David and Heather were married in 1999. They are the parents of three children, Caleb, Joshua and Mara Ruth.

Radical – My Review

In all honesty, this was not a book I planned on reading. But my oldest son read the book and recommended it to me. The book impacted him to the point that he and his wife gave up a large, comfortable, and beautiful house (2700 sq. ft.) to move into an apartment (1000 sq. ft.) for the purpose of sharing the gospel with those who live there. In just a few months time, souls have already been won for God’s glory and Kingdom. (I’d say his radical experiment is going very well, but I’m also a little biased.)

Since I was going through one of those searching and seeking times in my own life, I decided to read the book. I’m glad I did.

Let me say right off the bat, if you’re comfortable with a status quo Christianity, if you don’t want to be impacted and challenged in your discipleship, then this is NOT the book for you. On the other hand, if you’ve been wondering about how your life and time on this planet is fulfilling the Great Commission, then I highly recommend this book for you.

In His earthly ministry, Jesus said some things that were stunning in their implications. Radical. His followers were called to live a life that to our modern sensibilities seem a little far-fetched, unnecessary, and maybe a little harsh. But guess what? As believers, we’ve been called to follow Him, too. But are we possibly guilty of restructuring discipleship to make it fit our comfort levels? And if so, aren’t we also guilty of making God and His Son Jesus over into our image? Hmmmm…definitely food for thought.

In my Bible reading just this morning from Luke 3-5, in more than one place it references that the disciples left everything and followed Him. I don’t mean to imply that we have to sell everything and pare down to the clothes on our back to follow Jesus…unless He asks us to. But God’s Word is also pretty clear. We can’t love anything or anyone more than we love God and Jesus. The other word for that is idolatry.

David Platt does a good job of drawing a parallel between believers in other countries compared to the comfortable and prosperous religion of America. As someone who has experienced both, I agree wholeheartedly. We take so much for granted, and the result is often a watered-down version of the gospel and what it truly means to be a disciple.

My favorite part of the book is that not only did it challenge me, but the author ends with a call to apply what we learn in the course of the book. Here’s the challenge that I plan on following for at least the next year, and one that you might want to commit to yourself:

pray for the entire world (check out http://www.operationworld.org/prayer-calendar for a prayer plan);
read through the entire Word (Google Bible Reading Plans);
sacrifice (not just give, but sacrifice) your money for a specific purpose;
spend your time in another context;
commit your life to a multiplying community.

In short, the message of this wonderful book is this: Radical discipleship calls for radical faith, radical following, and radical living. Please do yourself a favor and read Radical. The true Christian life can be difficult, but it is also the path of spiritual blessing.

The post BOOK REVIEW: “Radical” by David Platt appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

Movie Review: Glen Campbell…I’ll Be Me

ABOUT THE MOVIE – Glen Campbell…I’ll Be Me

In 2011, when Glen Campbell was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, he joined forces with his family to fight the biggest battle of his life. Glen and his wife, Kim, made history by going public with the diagnosis – the first time a major American celebrity would share this experience with the world. The Campbell family then embarked on a short “Goodbye Tour,” but the three-week engagement turned into an emotional and triumphant 151-show nationwide tour de force.

This epic human drama about the undying bond between Glen and Kim, and their unwavering caring for each other, chronicles a story of love, resilience and the power of song.

GLEN CAMPBELL…I’LL BE ME is the true tale of how America’s greatest country star would not give up his music or his family, against all odds.

The film features those who know and love Glen, including Bruce Springsteen, Bill Clinton, The Edge, Paul McCartney, Jay Leno, Vince Gill, Jimmy Webb, Blake Shelton, Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Steve Martin, Chad Smith and Taylor Swift among many others. Rare vintage footage and extraordinary new performances of Glen’s most beloved hits immerse this moving cinematic account in the overwhelming talent of this humble family man. With joy and a tireless sense of humor, Glen and his family live each moment in the present while preparing for the future, all while playing their music to sold out venues on a star spangled voyage spanning the country from Carnegie Hall to the Hollywood Bowl.

MY REVIEW – Glen Campbell…I’ll Be Me

I grew up in a musical family, and both my parents loved country music. So it should come as no surprise that this Texas gal grew up listening to the likes of Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Ray Price, the Statler Brothers, Roger Miller, and so many others. One of my all-time favorites was Glen Campbell, with such songs as Gentle on My Mind, Galveston, Wichita Lineman, and By The Time I Get to Phoenix.

When offered the opportunity to preview the new docu-drama about Glen Campbell’s journey with Alzheimer’s Disease, entitled Glen Campbell…I’ll Be Me, I of course said:”Yes, please.”

I must confess. I had more of an interest in this movie than just the music, because Alzheimer’s Disease runs in my family. A great-grandmother I never really knew died with AD. So did my beloved Nanny, my paternal grandmother. The most recent loss to Alzheimer’s Disease was my Daddy, who passed at the young age of sixty-five. It’s difficult to come to grips with the fact that AD may one day be a part of my future, my sibling’s future, and my children’s future, because right now there is no cure.

When I first began to watch the video, it quickly became obvious that Glen Campbell’s family members were doing all they could to care for him throughout his illness. One way they did this was by allowing him the pleasure of continuing to perform his music before live audiences.

As a musician, this immediately raised the stakes for me. I’ve seen firsthand the devastation and disintegration Alzheimer’s causes. How could this entertainment icon put on a show of the quality folks had come to expect when he had trouble remembering?

I’ve always believed in the healing power of music. As a music teacher, I’ve seen evidence of how the brain is stimulated by music. So I sat in fascination as Glen Campbell–who needed a teleprompter to help him remember lyrics to the songs he’d performed thousands of times–flawlessly perform technically-challenging guitar riffs with nothing but raw talent. Most people remember Campbell’s distinctive voice, but he was also a phenomenal guitarist (as the following video I found on YouTube proves).

In the film, I also enjoyed seeing Glen Campbell interact with people through both his music and the wicked sense of humor that seemed almost as much a part of him as his guitar playing. Another favorite aspect of the documentary were the interview spots with other celebrities who shared their memories of Glen Campbell and their awe at his ability to perform while in the throes of Alzheimer’s Disease.

To be fair, I should say that my least favorite part of the video was the political aspect, though it focused on the increased need for funding Alzheimer’s research.

I highly recommend this movie for everyone. You will laugh, you will cry, but you will also be awed and amazed. I’d like to express my gratitude to Glen Campbell’s family for their courageous action in bringing much-needed attention to a neurological illness that affects more and more people each year. I can’t imagine the challenges of trying to care for their loved one in a very public and vulnerable situation, but they did so with grace and love.

Though it may be a bit self-indulgent and melodramatic, I’d also like to conclude this post with a thank you to Mr. Campbell for the joy his music has brought to me personally and to send him one last message, spoken over and over again by him in the movie: “God bless you.”

(NOTE: As of the writing of this post, Mr. Campbell has been moved to 24-hour care. My thoughts and prayers are with the Campbell family.)

The movie opens on October 24th, so I’ve included the trailer to give you a taste of what the show is all about. Below the video you’ll find a gracious giveaway of a 5-song EP soundtrack from the film. The giveaway is open only in the US and Canada. The winner will be selected randomly and contacted via e-mail for mailing instructions.

——————————-

a Rafflecopter giveaway

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

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Author Interview – Rachel Skatvold (and Giveaway!)

I’m delighted to welcome my friend Rachel Skatvold to the blog today. Welcome, Rachel!

Author Interview with Rachel Skatvold...plus a giveaway!
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Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a follower of Jesus, stay at home mom, blogger and writer of Christian romance from the Midwest. I’m happily married to my wonderful husband of seven years and we have two sweet boys that are one and four. They keep me pretty busy but they are such a blessing. I love that I have the privilege of staying home and taking care of them while they are young. My dream job consists of being a stay at home mom and writer so I’m living the dream I guess!

What inspired you to become a writer?

Well, I’ve always had a big imagination. I even received a few bad marks on my report card as a child saying, “She’s always daydreaming.” My parents didn’t take that to heart though. They loved and encouraged my crazy imagination, knowing that God made me that way. As a child, I enjoyed writing fictional stories about animals. I’m still a dreamer to this day. Just ask my husband. Any time I have a far of look in my eye, he knows I’m probably just cooking up another story in my head. My first idea for a novel came to me in college when my son was little. Now I enjoy writing sweet and suspenseful love stories that have a faith based theme. My main goal is to create stories that encourage others in their spiritual walk.

I understand your debut novella Beauty Within has just been released. Can you give us a short summary of the book?

 I’d love to! Beauty Within is the first novella in the three part Riley Family Legacy Novellas. This contemporary Christian love story unfolds with a young widow returning to her hometown in search of a new beginning with her two young children. Meanwhile, a handsome police officer from the city is on the run from dark shadows in his past. Will this unlikely pair be able to move past their circumstances and discover the Beauty Within God’s plan? Click here to read the full summary.

Watch the book trailer here:

Who is your favorite character in the story and why?

It’s hard to choose one but Lillian is very high on my list. She is Katherine’s spirited four year old daughter and always seems to get her mom into some awkward but hilarious situations. She even comes up with a funny nickname for the hero in the story that spreads through the small town of Brimsfield. I think anyone who reads the story will enjoy getting to know this humorous character.

Do you have any more books that you’re working on?

Yes, I have several writing projects on the back burner. As we speak I’m writing the first draft of Beauty Unveiled, which is the second book in the Riley Family Legacy Novellas. The next book will focus on Katherine’s younger sister, Sarah. I’m so excited to share her story with my readers. Also, I’m editing my first full length Novel, Enduring the Flames, which is about a young burn victim searching for her estranged mother and a talented music artist who vows to help her. I hope to have that one published soon. Click here to read the book teaser.

Rachel, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your life and writing with us. We’ve enjoyed getting to know you. Readers, Rachel is generously providing a giveaway of her new novella. If you prefer to purchase Beauty Within in soft cover or e-book right away, click the links below.

Amazon          Nook

Enter in the giveaway contest here!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About Rachel Skatvold

Rachel Skatvold is an inspirational author and stay at home mom from the Midwest. She enjoys writing inspirational romance, devotions, encouraging blogs. Rachel is currently working on the second installment of the Riley Family Legacy Novellas and her first full length novel, Enduring the Flames. Other than writing, some of her hobbies include singing, reading and camping in the great outdoors with her husband and two young sons.

Places to follow Rachel:

Website           Facebook           Twitter             Pinterest

The post Author Interview – Rachel Skatvold (and Giveaway!) appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

Soil Improvement

I live in an area of the United States that is known as high mountain desert, which presents many challenges for me as a gardener. Not only is rainfall limited, but the growing season is significantly shortened by cool temperatures. But an even worse problem is that the soil is not conducive to growing plants. It is a mixture of rocks, sand and hard clay.

I can’t help but see the comparison to the parable Jesus told about the sower of seeds found in Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8. (I previously wrote about this parable in the devotional post, “Soil Matters.”)

But as I read through the account in Mark early this morning, I was reminded of this important truth: Soil can be changed and improved upon for the purpose of increasing production. And if we’re wise, we will see to it that the soil of our hearts is kept in top-notch condition.

So how can we bring soil improvement about, especially when we have the tendency to hear what we want to hear, see what we want to see, and do what we want to do?

Hmmm… No wonder Jesus concluded the parable with the words: “He who has hears to hear, let him hear.”

Roadside Soil

“Listen to this! Behold, the sower went out to sow; as he was sowing, some seed fell beside the road, and the birds came and ate it up.” ~Mark 4:3-4 (NASB)

“These are the ones who are beside the road where the word is sown; and when they hear, immediately Satan comes and takes away the word which has been sown in them.” ~Mark 4:15

I love that Jesus began this parable with the command: LISTEN TO THIS! He’s not talking about physical hearing. Instead He’s referring to spiritual hearing, which always involves action. See James 1:22.

If the soil of our heart has become concrete hard, the seed of God’s Word won’t germinate, grow, or produce. The reason for this cement-like soil is the enemy of our souls. To avoid roadside soil, we must be aware that Satan will use whatever means necessary to steal God’s Word away from us. To counteract this tactic, we must put on the armor of God to take our stand against him (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Rocky Soil

“Other seed fell on the rocky ground where it did not have much soil; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of soil. And after the sun had risen, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.” ~Mark 4:5-6 (NASB)

“In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.” ~Mark 4:16-17 (NASB)

If our hearts are rocky, we will have shallow roots. This leads to us falling away from God during hard times and/or persecution. Thankfully, rocky soil can be improved by removing the rocks. Yes, it’s a painstaking and slow process. But if we want God’s Word to take root in our lives, it must be done.

So what does this rock-removal process look like? See Hosea 10:12. To break up rocky soil, first we must locate the rocks. This means seeking after God and asking Him to show us the hardened areas of our hearts. Next, we have to remove the rocks. God will help us find and remove those stones that make our hearts shallow, unreceptive, and unproductive.

None of us should assume that our heart soil is productive. Doing a regular heart check through prayerful consideration and repentance is a good thing that can bring forth fruit for God’s Kingdom. Asking questions such as these will help:

Am I actively seeking to serve the Lord, or have I become complacent and self-indulgent?
Do I read God’s Word with a view to obey what it says, or do I let it go in one ear and out the other?
Is my life making a difference for God’s Kingdom?

Thorny Soil

“Other seed fell among the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked it, and it yielded no crop.” ~Mark 4:7 (NASB)

“And others are the ones on whom seed was sown among the thorns; these are the ones who have heard the word, but the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.” ~Mark 4:18-19 (NASB)

Thorny soil is difficult, but not impossible (Jeremiah 4:3). We see those thorns (that Jesus identifies as worldly worries, the deceitfulness of riches, and idolatry) and wonder how we can ever rid ourselves of them. After all, thorns hurt when we touch them.

One thing I’ve learned in the removal of thorny plants is that roots are thorn-free. We want to get the roots anyway so the thorny plant is eradicated. We can grasp it without fear of getting poked and yank the plant out by the root.

But again, we must enlist God’s help in thorn removal. Worry is a difficult thorn to get rid of. We can only overcome it by faith and trust in God. That means depending upon Him constantly and turning our worldly concerns over to Him.

The deceitfulness of riches and desires for other things are much more difficult thorns, especially for those of us in American who’ve grown accustomed to comfort. It’s hard for us to lay aside our 401Ks, bank accounts, full refrigerators, clean water supply, high-paying jobs, and air-conditioned homes to serve God in anything less than what we’re used to. We like our comfort and our stuff. (Acquisition of stuff is even a fun recreational activity for us. Ever use the words “retail therapy”?)

I can almost hear some of you now. “But I’m not wealthy. I don’t have much stuff. Do I really have to get rid of these tiny thorns?” Consider this: Compared to the rest of the world, even the poorest Americans live in affluence. Those thorns aren’t as tiny as we’d like to think.

Now the questions we must ask ourselves grow a little more prickly:

Do I worry about things over which I have no control? Do I regularly turn those worries over to God until the worry is replaced with faith, peace, and joy?
Has acquiring more money and stuff become my primary goal in life? Does my pursuit of these things keep me from fully serving God?
Do I use the material possessions God has given me to advance His Kingdom or to advance my own? Do I give Him a meager amount and use the rest on myself?
Does my daily schedule revolve more around me and mine than God?
Do I prefer to hear teachings on self-indulgent topics (such as popular health and prosperity teachings, which is nothing more than a man-made gospel designed to make us feel good) rather than the convicting truth of God’s Word, which has the power to change us into the image of Christ?

Improved Soil

“Other seeds fell into the good soil, and as they grew up and increased, they yielded a crop and produced thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.” ~Mark 4:8 (NASB)

“And those are the ones on whom seed was sown on the good soil; and they hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.” ~Mark 4:20 (NASB)

If we are diligent about dealing with roadside soil, rocky soil, and thorny soil, soil improvement can take place in our heart. Though it’s not easy to confront our own bad soil, we must. It’s all too easy to turn a blind eye and a deaf ear and convince ourselves that we’re good soil. But if we do, when difficulties or temptations arise, we won’t be prepared. We simply must be about the business of seeking God and plowing up the soil of our hearts. The price for not doing so is much too high, and the consequences have eternal ramifications.

Lord God, the seed of Your Word is too good and too important for us to be complacent about it. Help us to constantly check the soil of our hearts so we can improve it with Your help to bring forth an abundant harvest for You and Your Kingdom. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

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True Stewardship

Yesterday’s devotional post covered the parable of the landowner, vineyard, and vine-growers found in Matthew 21. Just as the vine-growers were stewards of the landowner’s vineyard, today’s post will continue with a deeper study of the concept of stewardship.

Most of us link stewardship to finances, but scripture defines it as so much more! In addition, we tend to narrow the definition of financial stewardship to only ten percent which once again reveals a very limited understanding of the term.

According to Dictionary.com, the top definition of a steward is: “a person who manages another’s property or financial affairs; one who administers anything as the agent of another or others.”

By this definition we see the larger meaning of stewardship. Stewards are not only responsible to their master for ten percent of their finances, but for every aspect of life–all our finances for certain, but also our talents and abilities, our time, our decisions, and especially on a spiritual level.

Here are some verses about stewardship to back up this all-inclusive definition of stewardship:

Stewardship – Talents and Abilities

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: ~1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)

Peter wrote these words to encourage believers in Asia Minor during an intense time of persecution under the reign of Nero. Notice that in this context, the believers were to use their gifts and abilities to serve one another.

Stewardship – Instituted at the Beginning

And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”  ~Genesis 1:28 (ESV)

From the very beginning of time, God entrusted His creation to man. Stewardship in this verse applies to everything, not merely to material wealth. It is still our responsibility today to care for God’s creation.

Stewardship – We Get What We Give

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. ~2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (ESV)

And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces and put him with the unfaithful. ~Luke 12:42-46 (ESV)

God is the one we serve, not just financially, but with every aspect of our life. When it comes to the stewardship of what God has given us, we receive what we give. If we greedily hoard what God has given us, doling out our resources as we see fit, we can expect to receive what we give. In addition, if we begin to abuse those under our authority, the result will be the same as those who don’t place their trust in Jesus. How often do we stop to consider that the people God has brought into our lives are also a part of our stewardship?

Stewardship – What’s Our Motivation?

“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” ~Matthew 6:24 (ESV)

This point really goes hand in hand with yesterday’s post. If we serve God for what we can gain or hold on to monetarily, we’re really not serving God, but money. Jesus said that we can’t serve both.

Stewardship – What We Do With What We Have

Now, brethren, we wish to make known to you the grace of God which has been given in the churches of Macedonia, that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord, begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints, and this, not as we had expected, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God. So we urged Titus that as he had previously made a beginning, so he would also complete in you this gracious work as well. But just as you abound in everything, in faith and utterance and knowledge and in all earnestness and in the love we inspired in you, see that you abound in this gracious work also. I am not speaking this as a command, but as proving through the earnestness of others the sincerity of your love also. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich. I give my opinion in this matter, for this is to your advantage, who were the first to begin a year ago not only to do this, but also to desire to do it. But now finish doing it also, so that just as there was the readiness to desire it, so there may be also the completion of it by your ability. For if the readiness is present, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. For this is not for the ease of others and for your affliction, but by way of equality—at this present time your abundance being a supply for their need, so that their abundance also may become a supply for your need, that there may be equality; as it is written, “He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little had no lack.” ~2 Corinthians 8:1-15 (NASB)

Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. ~John 12:3-7 (ESV)

In addition to the two passages above, we could also add the story of the poor widow woman who gave all she had to Jesus. Honestly, our giving to the Lord as stewards of what He has giving us only starts with the tithe. We’ll see this below as well.

Stewardship – More Than Just The Tithe

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. ~Matthew 23:23 (ESV)

Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay. ~Matthew 10:8 (ESV)

While it’s easy to judge the scribes and Pharisees for their legalistic approach, are we really any different? It’s much easier for us today to give a portion of our money than our time and abilities. And what about the more important matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness? Look at all that we’ve received from the hand of the Lord in these areas. Are we faithful stewards of these concepts in return?

Stewardship – It All Belongs to Him

I will not accept a bull from your house or goats from your folds. For every beast of the forest is Mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the hills, and all that moves in the field is Mine. “If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for the world and its fullness are Mine.” ~Psalm 50:9-12 (ESV)

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. ~James 1:17 (ESV)

There is nothing that we have that doesn’t belong to God. Every dollar, every possession, the air we breathe, every beat of our heart is because of Him and His goodness to us. The idea that nine-tenths of my possessions are mine and one-tenth is God’s isn’t Biblical. It ALL belongs to Him.

Stewardship – The Requirements

Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. ~1 Corinthians 4:2 (ESV)

“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I am commanding you today for your good? Behold, to the Lord your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it.” ~Deuteronomy 10:12-14 (ESV)

You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day. ~Deuteronomy 8:18 (ESV)

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ~Matthew 6:21 (ESV)

And that slave who knew his master’s will and did not get ready or act in accord with his will, will receive many lashes, but the one who did not know it, and committed deeds worthy of a flogging, will receive but few. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more. ~Luke 12:47-49 (NASB)

Are we truly trustworthy with all the Lord has given us? Do we serve Him with all that we are and all that we have, or do we withhold part of our hearts, our lives, and our resources as belonging to us? Do we respond to God in full recognition that all we have is His doing?

We’ve been given so much–above and beyond material wealth and possessions. God gave His only Son for us, the ultimate gift of grace and mercy. Are we responding in kind?

Stewardship – Conclusion

While the bringing of the tithe is a Biblical concept and reveals His ownership and our stewardship, we must never forget that we are responsible to God for the use of the other nine-tenths as well. And nowhere in God’s Word does it suggest that stewardship is merely financial. Instead it involves every aspect of our lives.

Oh, Lord God, forgive us for our narrow-minded and greedy definition of stewardship. You own it all. It is not ours, but Your gift to us, not only to meet our need, but also for the benefit of others. Help us to remember all that we’ve been given. May we found as faithful stewards for You. In the precious name of Jesus, who spared nothing to buy us back, we pray. Amen.

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We’re Characters in His Story

As a Christian fiction writer, I’ve spent more than my fair share of time in the consideration of characters. Although plot plays an important part in any novel, it is the characters who make the plot and who therefore make the story.

Jesus was a storyteller, using parables as a way of drawing parallels between the physical world and the spiritual world–an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. One of the parables he told in the temple in the hearing of the religious leaders of the day was the parable of the landowner, a vineyard, and the tenants to whom the vineyard was entrusted.

Let’s examine the characters in this story more closely.

Characters – The Landowner

Listen to another parable. There was a landowner who planted a vineyard and put a wall around it and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and rented it out to vine-growers and went on a journey. When the harvest time approached, he sent his slaves to the vine-growers to receive his produce. ~Matthew 21:33-34 (NASB)

Notice these facts about the landowner:

He did all the work, including planting the vineyard, building a wall, wine press and tower, as well as locating vine-growers.
He sent out his servants to the vine-growers to get what was rightfully his–the produce from the vineyard.

Characters – The Vine-Growers

The vine-growers took his slaves and beat one, and killed another, and stoned a third. Again he sent another group of slaves larger than the first; and they did the same thing to them. ~Matthew 21:35-36 (NASB)

Notice these facts about the vine-growers:

As stewards of the landowner’s vineyard, they failed.
Their motivation wasn’t the vineyard, but power and control. Because of this skewed motivation, they mishandled the authority given them by the landowner.

Characters – The Son and Heir

But afterward he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But when the vine-growers saw the son, they said among themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him and seize his inheritance.’ They took him, and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. ~Matthew 21:37-39 (NASB)

Notice this fact about the son and heir of the vineyard:

He fulfilled the duty given to him by his father, in spite of personal danger and sacrifice.

There are also some things to notice about the landowner and the vine-growers in this passage:

The landowner gave the vine-growers chance after chance to respond and do the right thing, including sending his son.
Again we see the wrong motivations of the vine-growers: they were greedy for power, control, and the inheritance. Their wrong motivation resulted in an act of murder.

Characters – Lessons to Learn

Therefore when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vine-growers?” They said to Him, “He will bring those wretches to a wretched end, and will rent out the vineyard to other vine-growers who will pay him the proceeds at the proper seasons.” Jesus said to them, “Did you never read in the Scriptures,

‘The stone which the builders rejected,

This became the chief corner stone;

This came about from the Lord,

And it is marvelous in our eyes’?

Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people, producing the fruit of it. And he who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; but on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust.” When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard His parables, they understood that He was speaking about them. When they sought to seize Him, they feared the people, because they considered Him to be a prophet. ~Matthew 21:40-46 (NASB)

Though characters in a story determine the plot, all good stories reveal and deliver a deeper message. This parable told by Jesus also delivered a message–a message the religious leaders of the day didn’t want to hear–a message that is every bit as relevant today as when Jesus lived.

Lessons to be learned:

As believers and members of the family of faith, we play the part of those to whom God has entrusted His vineyard. We are His stewards and His servants.
We need to keep a constant check on our motivation for serving God. Are we in it for what’s in it for us? Are we greedy for power and control? Are we guilty of beating and killing our fellow servants, those God has sent to us for the purpose of gathering what rightfully belongs to Him? Are we guilty of usurping the Son’s authority?
We need to realize that no matter how patient God is in delaying to return to His vineyard, that He will one day return to execute judgement on those who have abused their position and fellow servants.

Father God, all praise, glory and power belongs to You and You alone. You are the owner of the vineyard. May we be found faithful in stewardship of what belongs to You. May we not be distracted by worldly matters, but may we be about the business of producing fruit for You. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

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CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW: Noah

Noah: About the Book

Mark Ludy’s latest book will appeal to adults and children alike. Digging deeper than the Sunday school tale of cuddly animals on Noah’s ark, the story follows the biblical text and illumines Noah’s relationship with God, his wife, family, nature, and humanity. Ludy’s world-class artwork lets people see, as though for the first time, the beauty within this story – revealing a clearer picture of the nature and character of God and his relationship to humankind. It’s immersive and epic in scale and scope. The wordless format invites conversation and storytelling, key building blocks of literacy. And as with his previous books, Ludy’s signature mouse Squeakers appears hidden on every page.

Noah: About the Author

Mark and his family have recently moved back to Colorado (33 years of life have already been lived here so this is more “home” then anywhere.) and they are living in the South Denver area. He is an author and illustrater of a number of children’s books as well as being a regular speaker in schools.

At a young age he loved to draw… draw on everything and anything. He never would have thought he would one day made a living from his doodles and crazy ideas. But he is now very happy to use his gifts in the arts to make people smile, feel good, be encouraged, inspired… and challenged.

Noah: My Review

I was delighted to be contacted about the opportunity to review this new children’s wordless picture book, Noah by Mark Ludy. Each page is nothing short of a work of art, vividly portraying the Biblical account of Noah and the ark.

What I especially loved about this book is that it allows children to tell the story of Noah in their own words by following the pictures. I also think children will be enchanted by the artwork and the opportunity to find a hidden mouse on each page. (With a quick scan, I was only able to locate the mouse on a few pages, which will make it challenging and fascinating for kids.)

I did find myself questioning the clothing, house design, and the use of metal and glass in the drawings. To me, the drawings seemed to emulate the Middle Ages rather than the Biblical times of Noah.

Overall, this book is beautiful and well-done, and promises not only to captivate the imaginations of children, but also accurately portray the scriptures and hold kid’s attention. I give Noah by Mark Ludy five stars and highly recommend it for readers young and old.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. The opinion expressed is my own.
 
 

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