🌾 The Second Kernel: God’s Provision – The Hand That Sustains Us

Scripture Reading for this message:

Philippians 4:19 (NLT)

“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.”

As we continue our journey through the Five Kernels of Corn this November, our thoughts turn once again to that humble feast shared by the Pilgrims long ago. Their table was not adorned with lavish abundance, but with simple gratitude — for they knew the depth of hunger, the ache of scarcity, and the faithfulness of God who had carried them through it all.

The second kernel represents God’s Provision, reminding us that every gift, every breath, every morsel of food comes from His gracious hand. It teaches us to see beyond our cupboards and our fields — to behold the One who provides not only what sustains our bodies, but what nourishes our souls.

When the Pilgrims faced starvation, their trust in God did not waver. They prayed, and He provided. When their crops grew again and the harvest came in, they did not forget the days of want — they remembered that even in the leanest times, God’s provision never ceased.

So too must we remember that all we have and all we are flows from His divine hand.

We live in a world that often measures abundance by the wealth of possessions, yet the Pilgrims learned a deeper truth: that provision is not about plenty, but about presence. When they had little, they found that God was still there. When they lacked, they discovered that His grace was sufficient.

Many of us have walked through similar seasons — times when ends did not meet, when uncertainty weighed upon us, when we wondered how tomorrow’s needs would be met. But just as the Lord provided manna to the Israelites in the wilderness, He still provides daily bread for those who trust in Him.

In Matthew 6:31–33, Jesus reminds us:

“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”

Notice how God’s provision flows not from our striving, but from our seeking. When our hearts are centered on Him, He supplies exactly what we need, exactly when we need it — never too early, never too late.

I can recall moments in my own journey when things seemed uncertain — when bills loomed larger than the bank account, or when the path ahead seemed unclear. Yet time and again, God provided in unexpected ways. Sometimes it came through a kind word, sometimes through a friend’s help, and sometimes through quiet assurance that tomorrow was already in His hands.

God’s provision extends far beyond food and shelter. He provides peace when our minds are troubled, strength when our spirits falter, and wisdom when the way forward is hidden in fog. His generosity is not measured in gold or grain, but in grace.

The Israelites discovered this when manna fell from heaven — enough for each day, never in excess. God wanted them to trust daily, not hoard for tomorrow. In the same way, the Lord still teaches us to depend on Him moment by moment.

Take a moment to reflect on the unseen ways God provides: the job that came when hope was fading, the comfort that arrived at just the right time, the prayer that was answered not in the way you expected, but in the way you needed. Every provision, large or small, whispers the same truth — “Your Heavenly Father cares for you.”

The second kernel calls us to more than gratitude — it calls us to stewardship. God’s blessings were never meant to stop with us; they are meant to flow through us.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 9:8:

“And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.”

True thanksgiving is not just words of praise, but acts of compassion. When we give, we become the instruments of God’s provision for others. The Pilgrims, having once known hunger, became generous with their harvest. In the same way, we who have tasted God’s goodness are called to share it freely.

Perhaps someone you know is struggling this season — a neighbor, a family member, or even a stranger. A meal shared, a bill paid, or a kind gesture can be the very hand of God working through you.

The second kernel rests upon our plates — small, yet mighty in meaning. It reminds us that our Provider is faithful. Whether the pantry is full or the shelves are bare, His care never fails.

So as you gather around your table in the coming days, remember that every blessing you enjoy has come from the hand of a loving Father who knows your needs and delights in meeting them. Let this truth anchor your heart: God’s provision flows not from the abundance of your circumstance, but from the abundance of His love.

As we reflect on God’s faithful provision, let us become reflections of His generosity. Reach out to those in need, support your local food pantry, and be a vessel through which God’s blessings flow.

If this ministry has nourished your soul, please prayerfully consider supporting our work by clicking the “Donate” button on our website. Your gift allows us to continue bringing messages of faith and hope to hearts around the world — a living testimony of God’s ongoing provision.

So, I say to you,

“May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”

Brother Jesse

Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain, SFIHG Ministries

✟ Evil Is Alive and Well: A Warning Against Complacency

There are moments in our lives when we would like to believe that evil is far removed from us—that it only exists in stories of the past or in faraway places. Yet Scripture reminds us that evil is alive and well in our world. It creeps in through deceit, tempts through subtle compromises, and ensnares those who grow complacent. The Apostle Peter gives us a vivid picture: “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8 NLT).

As followers of Christ Jesus, we cannot afford to ignore this reality. To pretend that evil is not actively at work in our world today is to give the enemy room to operate in our lives.

The greatest danger of evil is not always its force but its subtlety. Evil often dresses itself in attractive clothing, whispering lies that sound like truth. Paul warned the church in Corinth of this very danger: “But I am afraid that, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3 NLT).

Jesus Himself described Satan as “a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44 NLT). Every deception—whether small or great—finds its root in him.

One of the most dangerous traps for Christians is complacency. When we let our guard down, the enemy finds opportunities to plant seeds of sin. Paul exhorts us: “So be on your guard; not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded” (1 Thessalonians 5:6 NLT).

Evil seldom overtakes a believer all at once. Instead, it begins with small compromises. James describes this progression: “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death” (James 1:14–15 NLT).

Though the enemy schemes against us, we are not defenseless. God has provided His people with the means to resist evil and live victoriously. Paul instructs us: “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11 NLT).

This armor—the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the Spirit, and constant prayer—is sufficient to guard us against any attack. James offers us this assurance: “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NLT).

Evil may be strong, but our God is stronger. Paul gives us a clear charge: “Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good” (Romans 12:21 NLT).

The Christian life is not passive. It is a call to active faith, to shine Christ’s light in the darkness, to resist deceit with truth, and to overcome temptation with obedience. We are called to be vigilant, courageous, and steadfast. As Paul reminds us: “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love” (1 Corinthians 16:13–14 NLT).

Evil is indeed alive and well in our world, but so is the power of God’s Spirit at work in those who believe. We must not grow complacent, for complacency is the breeding ground of temptation and sin. Instead, let us stand vigilant, fully equipped with God’s armor, and conquer evil by living out the goodness of Christ Jesus in every thought, word, and action.

So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”

✟ Renewed Strength: Soaring on the Winds of God’s Power

There comes a time in every life when even the strongest among us must admit: we are tired. Not just physically, but emotionally, spiritually, and mentally weary. The daily responsibilities of life—the demands of work, family, ministry, health, and constant decision-making—can drain even the most vibrant soul. Isaiah 40:29 reminds us of a profound and tender truth: “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.” (NLT)

We often try to hide our weariness behind smiles and polite responses. We push ourselves to keep going, convinced that admitting weakness is a sign of failure. But the Word of God tells us that weakness is not something to be ashamed of—it is a place where God’s strength can be made perfect.

There are days when I, too, feel I cannot go on. The weight of ministry, the trials of life, and the burdens I carry for others settle heavily upon my shoulders. On those days, I do not rely on my own endurance. I cry out to the Lord—not with eloquent words, but with the desperate honesty of a servant in need of his Master’s hand. And time after time, God answers with strength beyond my own.

The prophet continues in verse 30: “Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion.” This verse levels the ground. It reminds us that no amount of vitality, discipline, or determination can prevent the human body and spirit from growing tired. The world may champion self-reliance, but God’s Word points to holy dependence.

This is not just a physical truth—it is spiritual. There are seasons when our faith feels heavy, when our prayers feel unanswered, and when service in God’s kingdom feels more like trudging through a desert than walking in green pastures. Yet God has not left us without help. He knows our frame. He remembers that we are dust (Psalm 103:14). In His compassion, He offers divine strength to those who admit their need.

This truth is foundational to the Fourth Pillar of a God-Centered Life: Being Healthy to Serve God. Physical wellness and spiritual vitality are intimately connected. We are called to care for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20), but we are also invited to nurture our souls with the sustaining grace of God. It is not enough to eat well and exercise; we must also feed on the Bread of Life and drink deeply from the Living Water.

Isaiah continues in verse 31 with a glorious promise: “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.” Other translations say, “those who wait upon the Lord.” This “waiting” is not idle or passive. It is active trust. It is the discipline of coming into God’s presence in prayer, worship, study, and quiet stillness, trusting that He will renew what life has drained.

We often rush through our days without waiting on the Lord. We eat on the go, speak without listening, and work without resting. But spiritual strength is not forged in busyness—it is cultivated in communion with the Almighty.

In my own journey, I have learned that strength is not always immediate. Sometimes, it comes in the stillness of a morning prayer or the sacred pause between sobs. At times, I have gone before the Lord utterly spent, and in return, He gave me what I could not muster: the strength to keep going, the faith to keep believing, and the peace that passes all understanding.

Isaiah concludes with a poetic triad of spiritual renewal:

“They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31b NLT)

These are not random metaphors—they are spiritual stages:

• Soaring on wings like eagles: God lifts us above our trials in moments of deep worship, breakthrough, and joy. These are mountaintop experiences.
• Running and not growing weary: In seasons of active service and spiritual labor, God sustains our pace. We continue without collapse.
• Walking and not fainting: When life feels slow and heavy, and when we must endure quietly, God walks with us, strengthening each step.

Sometimes we soar, and other times we simply walk. All are holy. Whether your path today is a mountaintop or a slow valley road, God is beside you. His strength is not just for the miraculous—it is for the mundane. It is for the caregiving, the serving, the enduring, and the believing.

The Fourth Pillar—Being Healthy to Serve God—is not merely about physical vitality. It is about being fit in body and spirit to fulfill the call God has placed upon our lives. When we care for our bodies, we honor our Creator. When we seek spiritual renewal, we become vessels through which His power flows.

Let us no longer pretend we are invincible. Let us, instead, boast in our weakness, that the power of Christ may rest upon us (2 Corinthians 12:9). Let us be a people who rise early to wait upon the Lord, who walk slowly enough to listen to His whisper, and who serve with strength that is not our own.

This week, I encourage you to take inventory of your health—both physical and spiritual. Are you running on empty? Have you been trying to do it all in your own strength? Then I urge you to pause. Open your Bible. Bow your head. Whisper a prayer of surrender. Wait upon the Lord.

Take a walk in the cool of the day and praise His name. Prepare a healthy meal and thank Him for daily bread. Go to bed early and wake up ready to receive His mercies, which are new every morning.

And when you feel that you can’t go on—remember this promise from Isaiah 40. God will lift you. God will sustain you. God will carry you until you soar once more.

So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”

Mid-Week Message - Sight For the Blind

"If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God."  2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (NLT)

When I was in the first grade, my family lived in a small two bedroom house.  I shared a room with my older brother and my baby sister had a small bed in my parents' room.  I still have fond memories of that little house, except for one occurrence.  One day my brother and I, whose beds were in opposite corners of the room, were tossing one of my dolls back and forth.  This doll was made of hard plastic and dressed like a bride.  Being somewhat competitive, we were both trying to throw her harder each time.  On his last throw, my brother sent her sailing through the air feet first.  I wasn't quite quick enough and those feet hit me hard in the eyes.  I saw nothing for awhile after that except for whirling colors.  I started screaming that I couldn't see and my poor brother ran and told my parents that he had blinded me.  After a few frightening moments and some cold cloths, my vision returned but I can still remember the horrible feeling of being without sight.  

We live in a nation that has been blessed with religious freedom and founded on Christian principles.  Our right to worship is protected my law.  Churches of all denominations are spread throughout the country.  The Word of God is available for all who are interested in obtaining it.  Believers are tasked by God to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world.  I know many Christians who take that task to heart and speak openly with all they come in contact with.  Then I know many others who assume everyone already knows the truth, therefore there is no reason to offend anyone by forcing their beliefs upon them.  

The sad truth is that, even in this nation where Bibles and churches abound, countless precious souls have been spiritually blinded by the enemy.  Opposing beliefs, or the belief in no Creator at all, have become pervasive and are growing each and every day.  As followers of Christ, we must stop worrying about how we are going to be received and understand that we just might be the one and only person that will approach any specific person with the love and saving knowledge of Jesus.  I know it's hard.  But how will they hear unless someone tells them?  Satan uses lies to blind and deafen.  But we have the power of Almighty God and do not have to let him steal our voices. 

I will be forever grateful for the person that cared enough about me to introduce me to my Savior. Because of her, and wonderful teachers and preachers throughout my life, I have the assurance of eternal life in the presence of the Lord.  That is a treasure that I want to share which is why I write these messages each week.  If even just one person finds something meaningful in the words strung together then there is cause for rejoicing.  Each week I pray that it will be used to encourage believers and touch the hearts of those who are searching for the truth.  Oh, Lord, please embolden our hearts and give us the words to share with those around us and give sight to the spiritually blind so that they may see You clearly and be set free by the truth of Jesus.  God bless.   

Mid-Week Message - Birthdays and Aging

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day."  2 Corinthians 4:16 (NIV)

Birthdays.  Whether we want them to or not, they come every year.  I understand why some are reluctant to to talk about their age.  As we witness our bodies changing as a natural consequence of the increasing years there is a desire to deny time, to hold out as long as we can against the softening and wrinkling skin and gray hair.  

I have to admit that I actually enjoy my birthday.  It doesn't matter to me that my age changes each year.  In fact, I am kind of proud of it.  Of all the gifts that I have received in my life, the ones that mean the utmost to me are those that have come straight from the hand of the Lord.  The average person takes 8,409,600 breaths per year.  As far as I can understand, each one of them is a gift because we are not promised a certain length of life.  That means that as of today I have drawn well over 555,000,000 life sustaining breaths of air since my birth.  Each one is a present freely given by my heavenly Father.

The trick is to remember this each day of the year.  When the hard days come, and there are many, the gift of each moment still needs to be a reason to praise Him.  No matter what, He has still allowed life to continue for a reason.  That reason is to bring Him glory.  There is nothing we will face in this life alone.  Along with each breath comes His presence.  From the moment of our conception He never leaves our sides.  We are here because of His unending and unconditional love which was proven by the death and resurrection of Jesus.  

Aging isn't fun, I will confess.  Aches and pains, slower reflexes and decreasing stamina plague us.  Diseases associated with age may set in.  Loved ones older than us have often passed away and those that are younger are busy with their own lives.  For some it can be a very lonely time but for all of us it can be rather daunting.  We reach the age of retirement in a time when finances cannot be assured to last and the need may arise to downsize our lives or sacrifice familiar lifestyles.  From my relationship with elderly friends I know that at times we may wonder why God allows our lives to continue and our only real desire begins to be going home to Heaven.  

I cannot begin to claim to understand the Lord's plans or reasoning behind how long any certain lifespan is.  But this I do know, His plan is perfect.  No matter how long any individual life is, it is for His glory.  We may not know how many other people are able to see Jesus in us in youth or old age but He will use each of us to touch hearts for His purposes if we allow Him to.  Each and every day is a precious gift.  Each breath a sign of His presence.  Without Him, we would not be.  

I pray that as we each wake up to each new day's sunrise we can say "Thank you, Father.  This day is yours.  Please use all the moments you give me to show others your love."  Have a beautiful, meaningful and blessed week.  

Mid-Week Message - Projecting the Aroma of Christ

"Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?"  2 Corinthians 2:15-16 (NLT)

Our sense of smell creates and recalls to mind memories that can both touch our hearts or turn our stomachs.  For instance, I will forever remember the way my mother smelled after she took a bath.  Her blend of bubble bath and bath powder coupled with a hint of perfume would permeate the house.  It was a sweet aroma that made the house feel even more like home.  One evening recently that fragrance came to me.  It was just an ordinary evening but suddenly those memories were triggered by that familiar smell.  I still have no idea from whence it came but it made me feel close to her even though she passed away fifteen years ago.  Not all smells are pleasant however.  I have heard medical professionals speak of the stench of burnt flesh and how it is something they will never be able to forget even though it causes them to feel ill at the very thought of it.  

I love the smell of coffee.  I have been known to stand in the coffee aisle in the grocery store just to take in the wonderful earthy scent as long as I could.  Not everyone likes that smell though.  To me it is a pleasure, to others it is something to be avoided.  This week's verse discusses the dichotomy of our lives being a Christ-like fragrance.  To some it symbolizes life but to others death.  

This has caused me to do some introspection.  What does it mean?  If we are to live lives that are "a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God", what are we to do?  I see in this verse what is ideal. Ideally we are to reflect our Lord as He is.  Ideally, we are to live our lives in such a manner that others will be drawn to us, not because of us, but because of Him in us.  However, most of us do not present ourselves in such a manner at all times, or even most of the time.  We get caught up in whatever is happening in the moment and forget that He is living in us.  We fail to project His love, His hope, His power.  

When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we are born anew.  The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us and we begin to grow closer to Him and become more like Him.  There are times though that we revert back to our old ways.  Our old speech patterns come back.  Old habits such as worry and defeatism return.  We forget that those around us who do not know Him are watching us to see how we rely on Him to help us through troubled times.  In so doing, we lose the sweet aroma and emit a sour smell of hopelessness.  An unsaved person that witnesses this may conclude that since we say we are Christians yet do not have confidence in Jesus, that there is no reason for them to either.  If we turn to Him, praise Him and openly trust Him, then we present the opposite.  The fragrance will be one that draws others in and creates a desire to know more about our Lord.  It is one that will speak life and joy.

We have an enemy whose main purpose is to snatch us away from Jesus.  He doesn't want us to reach others with the Truth.  He hates anything that points the way to the Almighty.  So he is quite pleased when we fall back into our old ways.  He revels at the stench of death.  Let's not give him that satisfaction.  We belong to Christ.  That needs to be our identity, our purpose and our very breath.  

As we go through this next week, let's be on guard so that the fragrance we project is Christ-like.  It will mean being alert and conscious of our words and actions at all times.  That's okay though.  The Holy Spirit will help us.  Love and blessings to all. 

Mid-Week Message - Pain

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.  That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties.  For when I am weak, then I am strong."  2 Corinthians 12:9-10  (NIV)

One day in 2012, as I was stepping out of the car, I noticed my left leg was shaking as I straightened it.  There was no pain so I continued doing everything I needed to do. I didn't experience the same thing again so I forgot about it.  Then, a couple of days later, my lower leg began hurting when I was on it.  The pain came and went so, again, I really didn't worry about it.  As the days went by, the pain worsened until finally it was taking me over an hour to make it from my sofa to my bathroom and I was having to lean on a bar stool most of the way.  Finally, I called my doctor who recommended that I go to an urgent care clinic and have it x-rayed.  The x-ray was aimed at my knee and the physician concluded that my pain was from complications of my arthritis.  He gave me a prescription for pain medication and told me to go home and use a walker.  

Two days later, when I attempted to stand, the pain was so severe that I couldn't bear to put my foot on the floor.  Because there was no way for me to get in my car, we called an ambulance.  That day I spent twelve hours in the emergency room.  My husband had brought with us the copies of the x-rays from two days before so the presiding doctor did not do any tests of his own and after twelve hours sent me home with another prescription for pain medication and told me to use a walker.  

It was a struggle to get into the house but my husband finally got me situated for the night.  The next morning, he left to conduct worship services for the retirement community where we were ministering.  When I stood, the pain was indescribable and I couldn't take a step at all.  I called for my daughter for quite some time but she couldn't hear me.  Eventually, I passed out and woke up on my bathroom floor.  After some time, my daughter came to check on me and my husband came home, at which time I called for an ambulance again.  This time, a different physician ordered x-rays of my entire leg and found that my tibia was completely severed.  They figured that it had been broken for one and a half to two weeks.

I apologize for the long story, but we all have them, don't we?  We all have times in our lives where the pain we experience is beyond what we think we can bear.  Whether it be physical, emotional, mental or spiritual, pain is a warning signal that something is wrong and needs to be tended to.  It serves another purpose as well, it drives us to the Great Physician and we cry out to Him for help.  

I chose today's verse because Paul went through more in his lifetime that I can even imagine withstanding.  He was ship-wrecked, beaten and imprisoned.  His very life hung in the balance as there were many who wanted to see him dead.  Yet, in all of his suffering, he continued to serve the Lord.  He never let his pain get in the way of his purpose, rather, he used his pain to teach those around him, and ultimately everyone who would ever pick up a Bible, that the grace of God is greater than anything this world might dish out and that when we rely on Christ during our times of weakness, His strength will carry us through.  

I have no way of knowing what you are going through at this moment.  Perhaps this is a painful time and you are wondering how you are going to make it through.  I know two things.  One is that everything passes in time.  But the other is that your Father in Heaven loves you beyond measure. He will supply you with the strength you need and by relying on Him and continuing to praise Him no matter what, He will be glorified and your joy will increase.  We were never meant to carry our burdens alone.  Look up and reach out.  He has a plan and you will be able to look back on this time and see how He was with you.  In all things, His grace is sufficient.  God bless.  

Mid-Week Message - A Sweet Aroma

"Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?"  2 Corinthians 2:15-16 (NLT)

Our sense of smell creates and recalls to mind memories that can both touch our hearts or turn our stomachs.  For instance, I will forever remember the way my mother smelled after she took a bath.  Her blend of bubble bath and bath powder coupled with a hint of perfume would permeate the house.  It was a sweet aroma that made the house feel even more like home.  One evening recently that fragrance came to me.  It was just an ordinary evening but suddenly those memories were triggered by that familiar smell.  I still have no idea from whence it came but it made me feel close to her even though she passed away nine years ago.  Not all smells are pleasant however.  I have heard medical professionals speak of the stench of burnt flesh and how it is something they will never be able to forget even though it causes them to feel ill at the very thought of it.  

I love the smell of coffee.  I have been known to stand in the coffee aisle in the grocery store just to take in the wonderful earthy scent as long as I could.  Not everyone likes that smell though.  To me it is a pleasure, to others it is something to be avoided.  This week's verse discusses the dichotomy of our lives being a Christ-like fragrance.  To some it symbolizes life but to others, death.  

This has caused me to do some introspection.  What does it mean?  If we are to live lives that are "a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God", what are we to do?  I see in this verse what is ideal. Ideally we are to reflect our Lord as He is.  Ideally, we are to live our lives in such a manner that others will be drawn to us, not because of us, but because of Him in us.  However, most of us do not present ourselves in such a manner at all times, or even most of the time.  We get caught up in whatever is happening in the moment and forget that He is living in us.  We fail to project His love, His hope, His power.  

When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we are born anew.  The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us and we begin to grow closer to Him and become more like Him.  There are times though that we revert back to our old ways.  Our old speech patterns come back.  Old habits such as worry and defeatism return.  We forget that those around us who do not know Him are watching us to see how we rely on Him to help us through troubled times.  In so doing, we lose the sweet aroma and emit a sour smell of hopelessness.  An unsaved person that witnesses this may conclude that since we say we are Christians yet do not have confidence in Jesus, that there is no reason for them to either.  If we turn to Him, praise Him and openly trust Him, then we present the opposite.  The fragrance will be one that draws others in and creates a desire to know more about our Lord.  It is one that will speak life and joy.

We have an enemy whose main purpose is to snatch us away from Jesus.  He doesn't want us to reach others with the Truth.  He hates anything that points the way to the Almighty.  So he is quite pleased when we fall back into our old ways.  He revels at the stench of death.  Let's not give him that satisfaction.  We belong to Christ.  That needs to be our identity, our purpose and our very breath.  

As we go through this next week, let's be on guard so that the fragrance we project is Christ-like.  It will mean being alert and conscious of our words and actions at all times.  That's okay though.  The Holy Spirit will help us.  Love and blessings to all.  

Mid-Week Message - Seeing Clearly

 "If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God."  2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (NLT)

When I was in the first grade, my family lived in a small two bedroom house.  I shared a room with my older brother and my baby sister had a small bed in my parents' room.  I still have fond memories of that little house, except for one occurrence.  One day my brother and I, whose beds were in opposite corners of the room, were tossing one of my dolls back and forth.  This doll was made of hard plastic and dressed like a bride.  Being somewhat competitive, we were both trying to throw her harder each time.  On his last throw, my brother sent her sailing through the air feet first.  I wasn't quite quick enough and those feet hit me hard in the eyes.  I saw nothing for awhile after that except for whirling colors.  I started screaming that I couldn't see and my poor brother ran and told my parents that he had blinded me.  After a few frightening moments and some cold cloths, my vision returned but I can still remember the horrible feeling of being without sight.  

We live in a nation that has been blessed with religious freedom and founded on Christian principles.  Our right to worship is protected my law.  Churches of all denominations are spread throughout the country.  The Word of God is available for all who are interested in obtaining it.  Believers are tasked by God to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world.  I know many Christians who take that task to heart and speak openly with all they come in contact with.  Then I know many others who assume everyone already knows the truth, therefore there is no reason to offend anyone by forcing their beliefs upon them.  

The sad truth is that, even in this nation where Bibles and churches abound, countless precious souls have been spiritually blinded by the enemy.  Opposing beliefs, or the belief in no Creator at all, have become pervasive and are growing each and every day.  As followers of Christ, we must stop worrying about how we are going to be received and understand that we just might be the one and only person that will approach any specific person with the love and saving knowledge of Jesus.  I know it's hard.  But how will they hear unless someone tells them?  Satan uses lies to blind and deafen.  But we have the power of Almighty God and do not have to let him steal our voices. 

I will be forever grateful for the person that cared enough about me to introduce me to my Savior. Because of her, and wonderful teachers and preachers throughout my life, I have the assurance of eternal life in the presence of the Lord.  That is a treasure that I want to share which is why I write these messages each week.  If even just one person finds something meaningful in the words strung together then there is cause for rejoicing.  Each week I pray that it will be used to encourage believers and touch the hearts of those who are searching for the truth.  Oh, Lord, please embolden our hearts and give us the words to share with those around us and give sight to the spiritually blind so that they may see You clearly and be set free by the truth of Jesus.  God bless.  

Mid-Week Message - Purpose and Pain

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."  2 Corinthians 1:3-4  (NIV)

He was diagnosed with a progressive brain disease that would end his life.  His first reaction to was to educate himself about assisted suicide because he didn't want to go through the debilitation that was sure to overtake his body.  When they found out, a group of his friends dedicated themselves to making sure he knew that he was loved and would have all the support he needed.  Because he had been a mechanic, he decided to seek donations of old children's bicycles.  He figured he still had the physical capacity to repair them.  He then began donating them to children in homeless shelters.  Now, after repairing and donating hundreds of bikes to smiling and grateful children, he understands that his remaining time is valuable.  He is still able to make a contribution to the world and he no longer fears what may come.  

When tragedy strikes, our first reaction is often to withdraw from our community of family and friends and ask, "Why me?"  Loss is painful and can be devastating.  Grief pours in and it feels as if we will be consumed, that life will never be the same.  We face the choice of giving up or going on, of allowing God to walk us through the hardship or sorrow, or of turning our back on Him because we perceive that He has left us and no longer cares.

During this past week, countless people have lost loved ones.  Their grief is raw.  Regardless of the pain they are in they are having to take care of all the things that accompany a death.  Funeral arrangements have to be made.  Paperwork has to be completed.  People have to be notified.  A lot of us have been through this and understand how tedious and difficult it can be.  The world changes forever after the loss of someone near and it is hard to comprehend how life seems to go on as normal for those around us.  

Hopefully, these precious ones have support groups around them to help them through.  But even if they do not, they are not alone.  The verse above assures us of God's compassion and comfort.  Personally, I have never felt God's presence more intensely than during my times of greatest sorrow or pain and I pray that it will be the same for them.  

None of us want to endure a death, a disease or a catastrophe of any kind.  Yet, eventually we all do.  And when we find ourselves deep in agony and cry out to our Father and feel Him near, we are also being prepared to help others who go through the same experiences.  A person who has been through the loss of a child or a spouse, for example, is uniquely able to minister to another who goes through the same loss. 

The story I told today is about a man who was able to find a purpose for his life when he thought his usefulness had ended.  Though his body shakes and he finds it difficult to walk, he can still hold a wrench and is able to mend broken bicycles that light up the lives of homeless children.  

God always has a plan and a purpose for our lives.  Even in the darkest days, He works.  We may not be aware of where the paths He lays before us will lead but if we trust Him, He will reveal it.  

As a hospice chaplain I urge families to allow themselves to grieve, however they need to and for as long as they need to.  Great grief comes from great love.  But I also counsel those that are Christians to ask the Lord to show them His purpose for allowing them to suffer through sad or difficult times.  I have never known Him to ignore this request.   Nothing is wasted by our Lord.  

May your week be blessed and may you feel His hand on your shoulder.

Mid-Week Message - The Most Pleasant Aroma

"Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?"  2 Corinthians 2:15-16 (NLT)

Our sense of smell creates and recalls to mind memories that can both touch our hearts or turn our stomachs.  For instance, I will forever remember the way my mother smelled after she took a bath.  Her blend of bubble bath and bath powder coupled with a hint of perfume would permeate the house.  It was a sweet aroma that made the house feel even more like home.  One evening recently that fragrance came to me.  It was just an ordinary evening but suddenly those memories were triggered by that familiar smell.  I still have no idea from whence it came but it made me feel close to her even though she passed away thirteen years ago.  Not all smells are pleasant however.  I have heard medical professionals speak of the stench of burnt flesh and how it is something they will never be able to forget even though it causes them to feel ill at the very thought of it.  

I love the smell of coffee.  I have been known to stand in the coffee aisle in the grocery store just to take in the wonderful earthy scent as long as I could.  Not everyone likes that smell though.  To me it is a pleasure, to others it is something to be avoided.  This week's verse discusses the dichotomy of our lives being a Christ-like fragrance.  To some it symbolizes life but to others death.  

This has caused me to do some introspection.  What does it mean?  If we are to live lives that are "a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God", what are we to do?  I see in this verse what is ideal. Ideally we are to reflect our Lord as He is.  Ideally, we are to live our lives in such a manner that others will be drawn to us, not because of us, but because of Him in us.  However, most of us do not present ourselves in such a manner at all times, or even most of the time.  We get caught up in whatever is happening in the moment and forget that He is living in us.  We fail to project His love, His hope, His power.  

When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we are born anew.  The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us and we begin to grow closer to Him and become more like Him.  There are times though that we revert back to our old ways.  Our old speech patterns come back.  Old habits such as worry and defeatism return.  We forget that those around us who do not know Him are watching us to see how we rely on Him to help us through troubled times.  In so doing, we lose the sweet aroma and emit a sour smell of hopelessness.  An unsaved person that witnesses this may conclude that since we say we are Christians yet do not have confidence in Jesus, that there is no reason for them to either.  If we turn to Him, praise Him and openly trust Him, then we present the opposite.  The fragrance will be one that draws others in and creates a desire to know more about our Lord.  It is one that will speak life and joy.

We have an enemy whose main purpose is to snatch us away from Jesus.  He doesn't want us to reach others with the Truth.  He hates anything that points the way to the Almighty.  So he is quite pleased when we fall back into our old ways.  He revels at the stench of death.  Let's not give him that satisfaction.  We belong to Christ.  That needs to be our identity, our purpose and our very breath. 

As we go through this week, let's be on guard so that the fragrance we project is Christ-like.  It will mean being alert and conscious of our words and actions at all times.  That's okay though because we have the Holy Spirit to help us.  Love and blessings to all.  

Mid-Week Message - Share So They Can See

 "If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God."  2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (NLT)

When I was in the first grade, my family lived in a small two bedroom house.  I shared a room with my older brother and my baby sister had a small bed in my parents' room.  I still have fond memories of that little house, except for one occurrence.  One day my brother and I, whose beds were in opposite corners of the room, were tossing one of my dolls back and forth.  This doll was made of hard plastic and dressed like a bride.  Being somewhat competitive, we were both trying to throw her harder each time.  On his last throw, my brother sent her sailing through the air feet first.  I wasn't quite quick enough and those feet hit me hard in the eyes.  I saw nothing for awhile after that except for whirling colors.  I started screaming that I couldn't see and my poor brother ran and told my parents that he had blinded me.  After a few frightening moments and some cold cloths, my vision returned but I can still remember the horrible feeling of being without sight.  

We live in a nation that has been blessed with religious freedom and founded on Christian principles.  Our right to worship is protected my law.  Churches of all denominations are spread throughout the country.  The Word of God is available for all who are interested in obtaining it.  Believers are tasked by God to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world.  I know many Christians who take that task to heart and speak openly with all they come in contact with.  Then I know many others who assume everyone already knows the truth, therefore there is no reason to offend anyone by forcing their beliefs upon them.  

The sad truth is that, even in this nation where Bibles and churches abound, countless precious souls have been spiritually blinded by the enemy.  Opposing beliefs, or the belief in no Creator at all, have become pervasive and are growing each and every day.  As followers of Christ, we must stop worrying about how we are going to be received and understand that we just might be the one and only person that will approach any specific person with the love and saving knowledge of Jesus.  I know it's hard.  But how will they hear unless someone tells them?  Satan uses lies to blind and deafen.  But we have the power of Almighty God and do not have to let him steal our voices. 

I will be forever grateful for the person that cared enough about me to introduce me to my Savior. Because of her, and wonderful teachers and preachers throughout my life, I have the assurance of eternal life in the presence of the Lord.  That is a treasure that I want to share which is why I write these messages each week.  If even just one person finds something meaningful in the words strung together then there is cause for rejoicing.  Each week I pray that it will be used to encourage believers and touch the hearts of those who are searching for the truth.  Oh, Lord, please embolden our hearts and give us the words to share with those around us and give sight to the spiritually blind so that they may see You clearly and be set free by the truth of Jesus.  God bless.

Mid-Week Message - Finding Value In Christ

"For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ."  2 Corinthians 5:21  (NLT) 

There are those in our lives who seem to think that it is their duty to make sure we know just how badly we have failed.  Some of our children love to inform us of each time we made a mistake in our parenting.  Spouses remind us of each misstep we have taken or each word that we have said that they feel we shouldn't have said.  Coworkers like to call our attention to errors as they seek to assure themselves that they would never have erred in the same way.  

Sadly, forgiveness and compassion do not reign in many of our relationships.  Low self-esteem is lowered even further as we take in each comment or action that makes us feel "less than."  After awhile we begin to believe that we, ourselves, are failures, even before God. 

If you are struggling with this today, I want to encourage you.  The best way to do that is to remind you how precious and valuable you truly are.  

Psalm 139 tells us just how close our Creator is to each of us, even from before conception.  The second part of verse 16 says this, "...all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."  He knew us before.  Before our birth.  Before creation.  Yet, knowing everything about us, still He gave us life.  Would He have done that if He found no value in us?  

As we are approaching Easter, we have even more to consider.  After celebrating the birth of Jesus just a few months ago, we now turn our minds to why He left Heaven in the first place.   Although a miracle, the baby in the manger did not stay there.  His thirty-three years on earth were spent in ministry and teaching.  He knew His time was limited to walk among His disciples.  He came to close the gap between us and God by being the sacrifice needed to atone for the sins of mankind.  

I recently saw an excerpt from the movie "The Passion of the Christ" which tells His story.  As I was watching the soldiers beat, whip and lift the Savior up on that horrid cross, my heart wanted to scream out "NO!"  He who never sinned took the punishment for each of us so that we might have forgiveness and eternal life if we repent and believe.  Now, I ask you again, does that sound like the action of someone who found no value in us?  

The love of the Lord, for you or for me, is so great that He would have endured the same torture if we were the only ones who needed it.  Take that in for a moment.  Before He hung a star in the sky, He knew you and every mistake, error or sin you would ever experience.  And, yet, His forgiveness is true and complete as He reaches out His holy arms to you in a love and a joy that this world cannot offer.  

Oh, beloved, as the days of existence on this orb grow fewer, I beg you to turn your face toward the One who offers an eternity of peace, and of never having to feel "less than" ever again.  He is there. Waiting.  Just for you.       

In His Grace,  

Karla

Mid-Week Message - Heaven Before Us

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."  2 Corinthians 1:3-4  (NIV) 

The death of a loved one is a jolt, a searing pain that causes us to forget to breathe for a moment.  The realization that someone who has always been there, who is supposed to always be there, will not be seen on this earth again is more than our minds and hearts can fathom.  It leaves us grasping at air as we try to pull back any semblance of normal that we can.  

This past week I lost my little sister.  Despite having been through the loss of grandparents, parents and friends, I had no idea how traumatic losing a sibling could be.  From almost before I could remember there had always been the three of us - my older brother, me and my sister.  Now there are two and it is hard to make sense out of.  I just keep grasping the hand of the Lord, knowing that He understands fully.  

Each of us experiences moments of intense loss at some point in our lives.  Because of that, we are able to comfort others who go through the same, or similar, situations.  Compassion is fueled by the understanding of brokenness.  Pain is universal.  Everyone will feel it eventually.  

What has carried me through, and what I can offer to those who come after me on this path, is the promise that the hurt we feel now is temporary.  God will ease our shattered hearts while we walk upon this globe, but there will come a day when there will be no more pain, no more death, no more tears, no more fear.  

Revelation 21:4 says, "He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."  

In my own time of grief, what has brought the most comfort is the Truth.  During our time here we will encounter heartbreak and anguish that is impossible to imagine.  But Jesus has overcome the world and if we have repented of our sins and accepted Him as our Savior, then we have Heaven before us where there will be only joy and peace.  One day, not too far away, we will be able to see Him face to face, to worship Almighty God before His throne and never again be plagued will illness, pain or death.  

May the Lord walk with you through whatever you are experiencing today and whatever comes in the days ahead.  God bless.  

Mid-Week Message - Wonderful Grace

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."  2 Corinthians 12:9  (NIV)

In 2012, when I suffered a broken leg, I had a real life lesson about this verse.  For the first time in my life I was helpless.  After surgery and two weeks of in-patient therapy, I was sent home with a hospital bed and told that I could not stand until the bone was completely healed.  So, for a little over four months, that bed was my dwelling place.  I had to have everything done for me.  And this is how I saw grace in action.

Because my husband worked all day, I had to find someone that would come to my house, mid-day five days a week, to help me.  I put out a request on social media and got a couple of responses, only to be turned down when they found out what would be needed.  Then, an unexpected message came from a dear lady who was the daughter of one of the precious women who was a part of our ministry at an independent living retirement center.  

Although I had met Karen when she attended worship services with her mother, I didn't know her very well.  I asked her if she was sure she wanted to help and she said she was one hundred percent sure.  So began her daily trip to my house.  She fixed me lunch.  She helped me with personal matters.  She helped to bathe me and get my hair clean.  She changed my sheets and opened the blinds so I could see outside.  Most of all, she gave me company.  Those were lonely days and I treasured her visits.  

Through her willingness to serve came the matchless grace of Jesus.  My emotions were raw and I was questioning my worth.  The Lord's love and acceptance came through her hands and words.  I wonder sometimes if she ever realized what a vessel she was of His compassion.  And I don't think she will ever understand how deeply she touched my heart and my life.  

My hope is that my story is a reminder of how real the words of Scripture are.  Paul's experience in asking for his thorn in the flesh to be removed and the answer God gave him is a message for all of us.  

There may be many times and circumstances where we find ourselves helpless in this life.  When those times come, we have the Lord to lean on and we can trust that He will be there and that His grace will be sufficient.  He always knows what we will need before we need it and has already prepared to meet that need.  

His Word is true.  Lean on it.  Trust in it.  No matter how alone you may feel, He is there and He is strong enough to take care of you no matter where you find yourself.  He promised.  

God bless.  

Mid-Week Message - Sharing Kindness

 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."   2 Corinthians 1:3-4  (NIV)

I heard the story of a mother who was growing weary of her children asking for things when she took them shopping with her.  She wanted to teach them to be grateful for what they already had and to realize that there were many people who were truly needy.  So she came up with the idea to allow them to choose one item each time they were with her.  The item was one can of food.  Any can of food they wanted to choose that day.  Then, after they were purchased, they would place their cans in the food bank barrel by the door.  The children loved this activity and ceased asking for things for themselves when they were in the store. 

Everyone we meet has a story and everyone we meet has a need.  Just like this mother was teaching her children, so we need to be mindful of those around us.  We may never know what is happening in the lives we encounter, but we can make sure that whatever impact we have is positive.  

When I was in college, I had the opportunity to travel with both a drama group and the concert choir.  When we spent the night with church members in whatever city we were in, we were told to make sure we left our accommodations as nice as, or nicer than, they were when we arrived.  This was basic gratitude and respect.   In the same way, we need to share the love of our Father in Heaven by sharing the same kindness and compassion with which He graces our lives with those we come into contact with.  

How does it make you feel if the person in front of you in line to buy coffee pays for your order?  I hope you have experienced that.  I have and I can tell you it truly blesses me.  That random act of kindness lifts my heart and makes me smile.  Have you ever had someone walk up to you and ask your name then say, "I just want to say a prayer for you today"?  That has happened to me on a couple of occasions.  It makes me feel like God has reached out with a special "I love you" message.  

When we take the time to notice those around us, we are telling them that they are important.  The love of the Lord is to be shared, not just stored up for our own personal good.  Whether in person or on social media, our encounters with others need to count.  Kindness is free and it only takes a moment to share.  We may never know what impact it makes, but we all need it.  

I pray that your life will be full of moments of blessing this week and that each of us will remember to reach out to those around us and be blessings to them.  Small seeds of kindness can produce unbelievable results.  God bless.  

Mid-Week Message - Purpose Through Pain

 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."  2 Corinthians 1:3-4  (NIV)

He was diagnosed with a progressive brain disease that would end his life.  His first reaction to was to educate himself about assisted suicide because he didn't want to go through the debilitation that was sure to overtake his body.  When they found out, a group of his friends dedicated themselves to making sure he knew that he was loved and would have all the support he needed.  Because he had been a mechanic, he decided to seek donations of old children's bicycles.  He figured he still had the physical capacity to repair them.  He then began donating them to children in homeless shelters.  Now, after repairing and donating hundreds of bikes to smiling and grateful children, he understands that his remaining time is valuable.  He is still able to make a contribution to the world and he no longer fears what may come.  

When tragedy strikes, our first reaction is often to withdraw from our community of family and friends and ask, "Why me?"  Loss is painful and can be devastating.  Grief pours in and it feels as if we will be consumed, that life will never be the same.  We face the choice of giving up or going on, of allowing God to walk us through the hardship or sorrow, or of turning our back on Him because we perceive that He has left us and no longer cares.

During this past week, three of my friends lost loved ones.  Their grief is raw.  Regardless of the pain they are in they are having to take care of all the things that accompany a death.  Funeral arrangements have to be made.  Paperwork has to be completed.  People have to be notified.  A lot of us have been through this and understand how tedious and difficult it can be.  The world changes forever after the loss of someone near and it is hard to comprehend how life seems to go on as normal for those around us.  

Hopefully, these three precious ones have support groups around them to help them through.  But even if they do not, they are not alone.  The verse above assures us of God's compassion and comfort.  Personally, I have never felt God's presence more intensely than during my times of greatest sorrow or pain and I pray that it will be the same for them.  

None of us want to endure a death, a disease or a catastrophe of any kind.  Yet, eventually we all do.  And when we find ourselves deep in agony and cry out to our Father and feel Him near, we are also being prepared to help others who go through the same experiences.  A person who has been through the loss of a child or a spouse, for example, is uniquely able to minister to another who goes through the same loss. 

The story I told today is about a man who was able to find a purpose for his life when he thought his usefulness had ended.  Though his body shakes and he finds it difficult to walk, he can still hold a wrench and is able to mend broken bicycles that light up the lives of homeless children.  

God always has a plan and a purpose for our lives.  Even in the darkest days, He works.  We may not be aware of where the paths He lays before us will lead but if we trust Him, He will reveal it.  

As a hospice chaplain I urge families to allow themselves to grieve, however they need to and for as long as they need to.  Great grief comes from great love.  But I also counsel those that are Christians to ask the Lord to show them His purpose for allowing them to suffer through sad or difficult times.  I have never known Him to ignore this request.   Nothing is wasted by our Lord.  

May your week be blessed and may you feel His hand on your shoulder.  

Mid-Week Message - His Light Through Our Darkness

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."  2 Corinthians 12:9  (NIV) 

Last night I was listening to a video made by Joni Eareckson Tada.  For those of you who do not know, she was injured in a diving accident in her younger years and has lived her life as a quadriplegic and built a ministry helping others with disabilities.  Now 71, she has faced many serious health issues, including cancer, and is just recovering from COVID.  She stated in the video that she had to face the fact that this virus might be more than her weak body could handle and, as she prayed, she felt God was asking her if she truly trusted Him.  

Ideally, we would all be born healthy and trouble free and remain that way until the end of our lives, but life is not that way.  The list of diseases, conditions, tragedies and problems that can befall us is exhaustive.  The fact is that any of us can be affected at any time by life-changing issues.  Whatever the cause, we have a choice as to how we deal with what we encounter.  We can be bitter, as many are, or we can ask the Lord to guide us through and to use our struggles for His glory.  

I have a sweet friend whose son violated the law and had to spend time in prison.  Her heart was broken and she had no idea how to move forward. She kept praying fervently for him and asked others to do so as well.  She also asked the Lord for a purpose in what was happening.  He began to bring people into her life that were going through the same experience and she was able to minister to them because she trusted that the Lord had a plan. Because her heart remained open to her Savior, His light brightened the dark path of others.  

In the first verses of the ninth chapter of John, Jesus and His disciples encounter and man that was born blind.  The disciples ask Jesus, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"  Jesus responded, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him."  Jesus healed the man and he went and told others and the power of God was made known.  

I am not saying that God is handing out illnesses or difficulties for His own gratification.  I'm not implying that at all.  My point is that we have a choice in how we deal with these things that arise in our lives.  We can climb into our beds and hide our heads under the covers and hope our problems just disappear, or we can bow at the feet of Jesus, pour out our hearts, then ask Him to be present and active so that His power and love will be seen in how we proceed and that He will be glorified. 

There are two quotes that I would like to share before I close.  One was in one of my morning devotions: 

God often uses our deepest pain as the launching pad for our greatest calling.  (author unknown). 

"When the suffering soul reaches a calm, sweet carelessness, when it can inwardly smile at its own suffering and not even ask to be delivered, then it works its blessed ministry.  Then the cross you carry begins to weave itself into a crown."  G.D. Watson

May we find joy in whatever life brings us as we dedicate each breath to the One who loves us with His indescribable love.  And, Lord, help us to allow you to shine whenever we find ourselves in a place of darkness.  God bless.   

Sunday Praise & Worship Message - Falling in with a Bad Crowd

Throughout my entire life, I remember the words of my Dad. All of his words of advice have guided me through the twists and turns of my life. Without those words of wisdom, it would have been so easy to go astray and find myself in a world of hurt. 

There was one piece of advice that stuck out the most and it is something that guides my decisions. He often warned me about “falling in with the wrong or bad crowd or company”. No matter if you are old or young, you want to fit in and become a member of a group. The group not only provides you with friendship but, to some extent, also safety. When you really think about it, we prefer to surround ourselves with those who have a shared interest or common belief. We feel that we can truly be ourselves when we are among our comrades.

However, our desire to be part of a collective of like-minded individuals can also get us into trouble. At first, we share the same ideas and beliefs, but, over time, things may change. Common ideas may begin to evolve into more radical thinking. Radical thinking may give way to less thought and to more action. In time, we can find ourselves being swept away by the rhetoric  of a few members of the group.

What I have described is how we often find ourselves “going with the flow”. We often say that we are “going along to get along”. But, going with the flow and following the will of the group can get us into a lot of trouble that we often would have avoided.

If you were to ask members of a mob why they were doing something, many would simply answer, “Well, the rest are doing it and I didn’t want to be the only one not doing it.”

When you look at how insidious groupthink can be, you begin to see how people can easily be led down a path of self-destruction. Under normal circumstances, many would not engage in wanton acts of violence or destruction, but, when you place them in a group, it becomes so easy for the mindset of the group to override responsible thought and generally-accepted social morality. 

In 1971 in the basement of the Stanford University Department of Psychology, an experiment was conducted to see how groupthink can become the driving force for carrying out horrible acts against other people. This experiment is called the Stanford Prison Experiment. 

In this experiment, students were assigned roles as prison guards and inmates. In time, each individual took on the behaviors of their roles. Guards became more sadistic and inmates became more disobedient. Violence became the norm. The prisoners became unstable and the guards became brutal. Over time, the actions of both groups became more and more unstable, brutal and cruel. Instead of lasting two weeks, the experiment had to be abruptly ended in six days. During the experiment, some of the students even suffered emotional breakdowns. 

Although the experiment was to study the psychological effects of becoming a prisoner or prison guard, it, in a larger sense, provides an insight into how groupthink can change individuals. People who are normally caring and compassionate can easily be changed into brutal beasts who wield authority like a sledgehammer. That mindset becomes contagious and sweeps through the entire group. All the members of the group quickly find themselves swept up and become a part of a violent mob.

In chapter thirteen of the Book of Proverbs, the author writes, “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.”

By going along to get along with a group, you can easily find yourself going astray. You may even find yourself doing things that are immoral or that go against your beliefs. In order to keep from going astray, you should part ways with those who are leading you down a path of destruction and disobedience. Walking with the wise helps you grow as an individual. Heeding God's word and following the teachings of Jesus will give the basis of a good and righteous life.

Paul, in chapter six of his second epistle to the Corinthians, reminds us of the Words of the Lord, “Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”

It is so easy to fall in with bad company and do the things they do in order to fit in. But, it takes a strong person who has the strength of the Lord inside of them to walk away from those who wish to do wrong. When they ask you why you are leaving, your answer must be clear to them. You must tell them that the Lord has called you by name and that He is your Father. 

By doing that, you will be giving them a message of hope and salvation. I can assure you that you weren’t the only one in the group who felt that the direction that the group was going was wrong. There will be others who need help in finding that strength that has already been given to them by the Lord. Your words could be the spark that sets their hearts ablaze in faith.

When you are thinking about becoming a member of a group, there are a lot of things to consider. First and foremost is where the group is going and what is driving them. We must at all times be ready to give an account of our actions and we cannot simply say that we were just following the others. We alone bear the responsibility of our actions.   

So, in the end, the righteous person must be willing to “come out from among unbelievers” and be separate from them. You must walk with the wise and come out from among unbelievers. When you do those things, you live a life of righteousness and are able to stand firm in His grace.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Sunday Praise & Worship Message - Live in Harmony

As I watch the news, I am appalled by the violence and destruction. There are times when I have to turn the television off and pray that we return to God and truly love one another. However, over the course of just a single week, I see or hear of more violence, more destruction and the list goes on. Instead of exchanging ideas and listening to one another, we have turned to calling one another names or, worst yet, screaming at each other. Even our elected officials are no longer respectful of one another.  They, too, have become just as offensive as the individuals I see on television or read about in the news. It seems that we are no longer civil to one another and have resorted to violence and anger to express our feelings. We no longer strive to work together for the betterment of all, but rather, look for ways to only advance ourselves over others.

What has happened to us? I remember the times when we came together to do great things and advance noble causes. We fought against tyranny and social injustice. We fought for those who were oppressed, poor, or were of a different color. As Americans without the hyphen, we continue to do great things.

In May of this year, for example, the United States returned to space for the first time in almost nine years by launching two astronauts from United States soil. Prior to that momentous moment, US astronauts were hitching rides on Russian rockets. For me, when Crew Dragon lifted off the pad at Kennedy, I felt a certain pride knowing that we were returning to space.

When we, as a nation, commit ourselves to do something great, we go all out with pride and are dedicated to the idea of not only doing it for our nation but also for the advancement of mankind as a whole. I cannot think of a better example than the Apollo program that started with a brash young President standing before the United States Congress challenging us all to do something almost unheard of.

President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, standing before a joint session of Congress on May 25, 1961, uttered these words that still to this very day fill me with pride, “First, I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth. No single space project in this period will be more impressive to mankind, or more important for the long-range exploration of space; and none will be so difficult or expensive to accomplish. We propose to accelerate the development of the appropriate lunar spacecraft. We propose to develop alternate liquid and solid fuel boosters, much larger than any now being developed, until certain which is superior. We propose additional funds for other engine development and for unmanned explorations--explorations which are particularly important for one purpose which this nation will never overlook: the survival of the man who first makes this daring flight. But in a very real sense, it will not be one man going to the moon--if we make this judgment affirmatively, it will be an entire nation. For all of us must work to put him there.”

We, as a nation, committed ourselves to meeting the challenge given to us by President Kennedy. In July,1969, Neil Armstrong became the first man to set foot on the moon. Everyone around the world was glued to a television or radio as he came down the ladder of the lunar excursion module and set his foot upon the soil of a foreign world.

The entire world came together and shared in that momentous achievement and marveled at what we, not only as a nation, but also as a people, could do when we set our minds on doing something great.

When we work for the good, the good just naturally comes through and shines like a brilliant light. We have no petty differences. We work to do those things that give us an opportunity to add yet another thread in the rich tapestry of man’s existence.

Even today, we see a similar opportunity to do something wonderful. As we face a pandemic and an invisible foe, COVID-19, thousands of people all around the world are working tirelessly to create a vaccine. Thousands of healthcare workers, physicians, specialists, nurses, emergency medical workers and so many others work daily to keep those infected with this malady alive. It is through these moments when we see the best in man come out and outshine the violence and destruction.

Paul, in chapter twelve of his letter to the Romans, writes, “Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.”

When I witness the violence and destruction that has embroiled our nation, I am saddened by all of it. I see the lives of individuals shattered by the violence and destruction that has become a way of advancing mankind. We should stop all of this and work towards peaceful solutions that are created by listening to one another rather than screaming at one another. We should reach out with an open hand to those in need of help instead of shaking a clenched fist in anger. 

In order for us to do those things that are great, noble and good, we need to start by loving one another and not pretending that we do. As Paul puts it, hate is wrong. By embracing love, we embrace goodness and when we do that, we embrace God.

God showed his love for all of us by giving His son for us as an atonement sacrifice. Through Jesus’ death, our debt of sin was paid. Through his resurrection, our gift of eternal life was ensured. Through his example, we live our lives with a Christ-like attitude of love and understanding.

When we strive to rise above our differences and genuinely love one another, we can work to solve all of the problems that face us all. We live in a world of abundance but there are those who starve. Some do not even have clean water to drink. Let us unite in Christian brotherhood and endeavor to love one another and live in harmony.

In chapter thirteen of his second letter to the church at Corinth, Paul, closes his letter, by writing, “Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.”

I encourage you to go out today and everyday and encourage those around you to live in peace and harmony. Show others that you not only care for them but you also genuinely love them. By doing those things, we are advancing a great, noble and good cause that unites us all in Christian love and gives us the strength to stand firm in His grace.   

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.