Don’t GO to Church – BE the Church

by Patrick Nix

That’s right – a Pastor is encouraging you to stop going to church;  I really mean it!  STOP!  We’ve all become accustomed to simply going to church – as if church is a place.  It’s not!  Many of us have special uniforms (church clothes) that we don only on Sunday (church day), so we can go and attend worship (church service), giving God our tithes (church money).

It’s as if we have a neatly organized series of Rubbermaid Totes: one with tools for work, one with books for school, one with money for bills, one with your hobbies for you, and one with time for family.  We keep God compartmentalized with his own day, his own money, his own clothes, his own house. When, in reality, we should empty the contents of our ‘God-tote’ out into all the other totes.  God doesn’t want a piece of me or my week or my wallet.  He doesn’t work that way.  He wants it all – after all, it’s all His anyway, right?  If I’m His child, then I am all His; so why do I have such a hard time letting go?  That’s why I’m asking you to stop going to church… to get you thinking about being the church.

IT’S GOD’S IDEA
Some have their doubts, but church was NOT the invention of some twisted, power-hungry theologian from the Dark Ages.  No, church has a Heavenly origin… Jesus  was the founder of the church: “Upon this rock, I will build my church…”  (Matthew 16:18).

The Bible tells us very clearly that church is God’s idea: “Christ loved the church & gave Himself for it.” (Ephesians 5:25).  The purpose of the church is simple: “Let us consider one another to provoke one another to love & good works. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together… exhorting one another” (Hebrews 19:24-25).  The problem is that, over time, man’s ideas have crept in and overcome God’s original intent.  This is called “Tradition.”  Christ didn’t like tradition coming in and overruling His Words.  In fact, He said more than once that tradition (man’s ideas of what God didn’t say) was so powerful it would void God’s commands (what God did say about what He wanted).  See Mark 7:6-13

Never is this more tragically evident than in the church… a place where God’s Word ought to be the only authority.  Sadly, many deacons and church ‘pillars’ will not allow their young, visionary pastor to lead because “It’s never been done that way before.”  “You know I love you, Pastor, and it’s nothing personal, but…”  How about we try this on for size:    “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.”  (Keep in mind this is not directly out of the Scriptures, but then again, that just might bode better for some of our ‘religious’ readers, being it’s a really old tradition!)

When it comes to the essentials: that Jesus is God; that He was virgin-born, died an atoning death for sinners, and resurrected in the flesh;  that salvation is by grace, not of works – these are not up for debate.  Our church must have unity in these.  But in differences of beliefs about gifts of the Spirit, the Rapture, angels, music, Bible versions, etc. – there is liberty to be right, to be wrong, and to change your mind.  How can I be dogmatic where God is silent?  And in all things, we should practice real agape (God-style) love toward each other.  “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”  (John 13:35)

BE THE CHURCH
Here at Lighthouse, we are just finishing up an 8-week “Be the Church” Sermon Series.  I’d like to share five of those truths with you.  Perhaps you can take one a day, like a vitamin, for the next few days – letting the truths sink in and transform you into being the church.

DETOUR. The Good Samaritan wasn’t honored because of his good intentions to help others – he is famous because he actually took time to be interrupted.  He cared about his neighbor.  John the Baptist preached a similar message: Share! “He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none;” (Luke 3:11)

PART. If you are a born-again Christian, then you are part of the body of Christ.  You were hand-picked & placed in the church God wants you in (1 Corinthians 12:18).  Does membership mean anything to you?  It should.  It means that you have a gift and a function that no one else in that body can fill – that’s why you should be faithful and be involved at your local church!

LENS. Seeing people like Jesus sees them isn’t usually our first instinct.  Developing a heavenly perspective takes time – and work.  Solomon prophesied: “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”  (Proverbs 29:18)  Does your church still have the ‘W’ in “Where” or is it just “Here…” ?

PROOF. You were left on this earth to be salt and light – proof that Jesus Christ walked this earth, proof that He still saves, proof that He is coming again.  What kind of a witness are you? “Ye are witnesses of these things.”  (Luke 24:28)

DROP. You might not feel like much – but you can make a difference.  One drop makes ripples on a pond.  One match can start a wildfire.  One gram of yeast will leaven an entire cake. Only one. If God can use one little boy’s lunch to feed 5,000+ – He can certainly use you!

In conclusion, “Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”  (Romans 14:5b)

Counseling under the Divine Counselor

by Dr. John Lapp

Many years ago I was presented with a drawing that depicted a pastor or counselor sitting at his desk, probably contemplating what he should say.  The counselor was facing the artist rendering of Christ, whose back was facing the viewer.  Christ, the Divine Counselor (that, by the way, was the title given to the drawing) had one of his hands obviously making a point to the counselor while he was looking at the face of Christ.  That drawing reminded me of a very important fact.   Counselors are trained for several years in the theories/ philosophies of how counseling should work, and although many years (actually for me, more than a decade) of graduate training, then two-years of internship and licensing exams in the individual state(s) he chooses to practice, has produced an abundance of knowledge, that is often not enough.   This is where the power, and wisdom of God becomes available to the Christian counselor, and ONLY to the Christian when his knowledge is not sufficient to address and help resolve the problem(s) presented by the one(s) seeking his help and guidance.  In the book of James (1:5) it states “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”   At times in my nearly 40 years of practice with individuals, couples, and families I have had the privilege of seeking the wisdom of God when presented with what is known in England as a “sticky wicket,” meaning a difficult situation with an even more difficult solution.  While being presented with this difficult situation, I have prayed in my heart for God to give me the wisdom that only He holds in abundance.  Amazingly, my heart and mind receives this wisdom and the solution(s) become available.

This same wisdom is not available only to me or others who practice in the profession of marriage and family counseling.  This same wisdom, James states, is available to “any of you,” and is for “all” who will be willing to take advantage of this wonderful present from God.  It is also equally important that because of God’s rich mercy and love that when we ask for this wisdom, He “upbraideth not,” meaning that He does not belittle us,
demean us, or ‘scold’ us for asking!

He knows that while for many years we may have accumulated knowledge that is helpful in many situations, there are still some situations where we are ‘non-plused’…confused…not sure…wondering what I should do….what I should say.   Not only does God tell us this wisdom “…will be given,” it states that it will be given “liberally,” meaning in abundance, even super-abundance.   WOW!  That sure beats an abundance of  knowledge, no matter its’ original source(s).

While many seek the counsel of a pastor or a professional counselor who is a born-again Christian, many have sought the help of other than a Christian.  A warning from the scriptures is necessary at this point.  While many psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, or other mental health counselors have accumulated much knowledge and have earned many degrees (some seemingly have as many degrees as is found on a thermometer), Psalms 1:1 states “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly….”   The well-meaning counselor whose knowledge appears to render him/ her ready to give advise to his patient/ client(s), unless that counselor is operating under the direction of The Divine Counselor, “blessings” will not be available to the one(s) seeking his/ her counsel.

Finally, it is important to know that, not only is God, through Christ, the Divine Counselor, his very name (see Isaiah 9:6) is Counsellor, among several other names presented by the prophet, Isaiah, and He did not have to go to graduate school to earn that title, nor is He required to be licensed by any particular state to hold that license….that is His Name!   Furthermore, he is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and you don’t have to call and make an appointment.   You also don’t have to check to see if the costs are covered by your insurance company…but you can be ASSURED that “IT SHALL BE GIVEN HIM”!!!

Seek His wisdom, and be assured that the counselor who believes on His Name “Counsellor”  will be able to have His wisdom available to help you in your time of need.

What Not to Wear

A lot has changed since God first clothed Adam & Eve in the Garden of Eden!  Yet, the purpose of clothes still remains basically the same – to cover the body.  God emphasizes the importance of modesty throughout the Scripture: “women adorn themselves in modest apparel” (1 Timothy 2:9).  God calls Christians to a different standard than the world – one of righteousness, of purity, and of modesty.

Today, our culture flies in the face of God’s desires for modesty.  Most clothes today scream, “I’m cheap.” “For sale!” It can be very difficult to find something that’s in and pretty, but that’s still God-honoring.  Here are a few thoughts to help the ladies in your home be more modest…
RAISE & PRAISE – Am I showing too much belly?  Your stomach should not show when you lift your hands above your head!  If so, it’s time to go change.

I SEE LONDON, I SEE FRANCE -  Does my panty-line show through?  Are my bra-straps showing?  That’s not A-Okay!  Your underwear should be kept under wraps… modesty keeps secrets.

PLUMBERS TEST – Can you see my underwear when I lean over? It’s not cool to show off your whale-tail & your BVD tags.  Wear a tanktop under your shirt that will close the gap.

PALM PILOT – Is the neckline of my shirt too low?  Make sure you can put your palm between the top of your bra & the top of your neckline!  Now’s good time to make sure it’s not too tight.
For more, visit: SecretKeeperGirl.com

Drop the Weight

by Joy Nix

One of my all-time favorite shows…  Biggest Loser!  It is amazing to me how quickly those people drastically change.  When I watch this happen for them, it sparks a desire in me for something different.  Have you ever looked into the mirror and wished to see an alteration?  If yes, I am writing this for you.  It is you and me – we can do it together!

When they first arrive on campus – the competitors weigh in – this number is not something they have accumulated over night… It has  taken time:  a lot of little things adding up to a seemingly insurmountable obstacle.  So it is with us – years of wrong thinking and feeling – a steady diet of disobedience and regrets – holding onto resentment for those who have hurt us – along with frequent binges into discouragement and self-pity.  So how do we go on?  How do we cover up our hurt and pain with this monster haunting us?  Multi-tasking!!!  We bury ourselves in work, housekeeping, taking care of our children, our husbands, sports activities etc.  Who has time to deal with the monster on the scale with all these other things on our menu?  That is why the Biggest Loser Campus is so successful – it allows focus.  No more multi-tasking; just one goal: getting healthy.  There is something to that… James says “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.”

In order for me to be healthy – I need  to make sure I am not trying to take on too much.  Matthew 11:28-29 is the only exercise plan I need… and how simple is that… laying my aches down and picking up His partnership.  He wants to be our Personal Trainer.

The part that I hate is when they have to go home… reality sets in.  Fear of failure.  Do I have what it takes?  Can I measure up?  It is so inspirational to see the before and after photos and know they are really doing it. Remember these promises: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”  (Philippians 1:6)  “…fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.”  (Luke 8:50)  “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”  (2 Timothy 1:7)

No matter how insurmountable it seems when you step onto the scale of life – there is an answer.  A little focus mixed with a little faith is the greatest diet plan.  He can and will change your life if you will let Him be your Personal Trainer.  “With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.”  (Matthew 19:26)

Joy is wife to Patrick, mother to Austin, Alanson, Asher, Anna Belle & one on the way!

The Representative

by C.S. Depew

I couldn’t believe it, he wasn’t listening to me!  This was my job that was on the line, not his.  I had been accused by the company of being negligent, violating rules and causing an accident.  Now I was sitting in an internal investigation with the company officials on one side of the table looking across at my union representative and me on the other.  The union rep had gone over everything with me that morning; telling me how things would proceed and what to expect.  He had been through this many times before.  He said they would interpret the rules to fit their version of the events. Then he asked me questions about the accident, and asked me how I wanted to defend myself.  I told him I wanted to be completely truthful, I had nothing to hide.  I suggested several up front arguments to defend my actions.  I knew what had happened, (out of everyone at this investigation, I was the one who was there.)  I did everything I could to keep the accident from happening.  He shrugged his shoulders, playing devil’s advocate and told how they would pick my arguments apart.

I was nervous when the investigation started, but now I sat there getting more and more frustrated because the union rep was not using a single argument that I suggested.  He was arguing that the whole investigation was unfair, and was trying to catch the company officials in a lie.  The company was also going over every statement and recounting every action that day trying to catch me in a lie.  He and the company officials were arguing back and forth slinging accusations while both ignored the fact that the statement of events showed that I had not broken the rules that I was being accused of violating.

The final result of the investigation was a suspension, which as it turns out was exactly what the company and the union knew was going to happen.  The whole investigation was little more than a formality.  I sat at home for the next two weeks feeling very unsettled.  I didn’t feel like I had been treated fairly by the company or represented fairly by the union.  Neither side had listened to me or had much faith in my ability.  It wasn’t until I was reading through the Sermon on the Mount, that I realized I had no right to throw stones.

Matthew 5:16 says, Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.  I have been a Christian since I was seven years old.  As a Christian, I am God’s representative to the world.  I work for Him and on occasion have been called upon to defend Him.  I have the Bible to tell me the rules to follow and the guidelines with which to live my life.  All I really have to do is listen to Him, have faith in His ability and let my light shine.  Matthew 5:44 says, But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that  hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.  Through prayer and the Holy Spirit, He has told me what to say or how to react in a given situation; not just for my own good, but for His glory.  But how many times in the last thirty two years, did I listen?  How often did I have faith in His ability, instead of counting on my own?  I got caught up in my opinion of the world’s view and their arguments instead of concentrating on my only true job – representing God.  When someone attacked my beliefs, did I heed Matthew 7:1; ”Judge not, that ye be not judged”?  Or did I take it personally and attack theirs.  Instead of relying on Matthew 7:12a, Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them; when mud was slung, I slung it back.  Most importantly, when someone in the world was curious and asking questions about God, how many times did I choose that moment to be quiet?  Every day of that two week suspension was a glowing reminder of one thing; I have been a poor representative.  This is not a job that is at stake, or the loss of some income.  God wants everyone to seek the truth and find eternal salvation.  We are to represent God before the world, with the love and conviction that Jesus Christ will represent us before God.  Thankfully, with Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I know how that investigation will end.

Raising the Standard of Raising Kids

by Kim Porta

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”   –Proverbs 22:6

When I was about 18, I made somewhat of a vow before God and man that I would never have children.  Thinking back on that now, I have to chuckle, as I’m due to deliver my 5th baby in early March.  I really meant it back then, though.  Having had grown up around some parents who had given their children few boundaries, no real rules, and no consistent consequences for their wrong actions, a lot of my closest experiences with childhood behavior were not good ones.  The older these children got, the worse their unchecked behavior became, until finally, the result was just a bigger, more offensive version of the little children they once was.  They were very difficult to be around, and in the ignorance of my youth, I blamed them.
Having been a parent for almost 16 years now, however, I understand that the issues were really less about them, and more about their parents.  It is still absolutely wearisome for me to be around undisciplined children.  While many are a direct by-product of the world system, it is more than obvious that the Church of God has not gone unaffected.  It is full of unruly children running wildly through her sanctuaries, with a complete disregard for authority.  Their lack of manners, disrespect for others, and their constant surly expressions make them look no different than the lost counterparts.  Often, when a parent actually does take the time to address their situation, it is passed off with the comment that; “Boys will be boys,” or, “You know how kids are!”  I often walk away thinking, “Yes I do, my friend!  That’s why God left us instructions in His Word regarding their training!”
While all of this has become the “norm” for behavior of children in all stages of development, it is by no means right by God’s standards, nor should it be acceptable in Christian families.  Proverbs 22:6 instructs us to Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.  Many parents make the assumption that just as long as they have their children in church every time the doors are open, all will be well in the area of child rearing.  While keeping our kids in church is vitally important and required of us by God, it is but a small part of the actual training process.  Bringing them, and then leaving them to their own devices while there, does not a well-behaved child make.
The best example of training relates to applying a plant to a wire topiary form.  I’ve done this before, and know that it takes much time and attention to produce anything of beauty.  Many gardeners will try to take a short cut and do it free-form, but what a challenge!  It is much more difficult to keep the plant looking like anything recognizable.  The growth is uneven and unattractive.  Rarely, if ever, is the end result a desirable one when using this method.  Eventually, however, if trained properly, that plant can be released from the ties which attached it to the form, and it will continue growing in that shape with little more than maintenance care.
Training our children God’s way is the exact same concept.  The form is the Word, and as parents, we are responsible for the vigilant care over the children we are training upon it.  This takes much time and a consistent turning of our hearts and attention toward them.  We can’t get weary in the process and just give up and hope for the best.  We can’t believe that God is going to miraculously teach our children how to behave, just because we bring them to church and they’re part of all the youth activities.  Training takes a binding to the Form, by us as their parents, and much pruning throughout their life.  It is a responsibility that we should never pass off to anyone else.  God is certainly going to hold us accountable for what He has called us to as stewards of these young lives.
If what you are doing now is not bringing appropriate results, ask the Lord to show you a new thing.  Believe me, my husband and I have been through all of the typical stages thus far with our own children; the beautiful and the ugly ones, and it is by no means over!  But God has always been, and will continue to be faithful to us as we are faithful to Him.  I can hear Him now… “A little snip here, and a little snip there…”

Kim is wife to Mike, mother to Ahren, Nick, Mason, Gracie, & another little blessing on the way.

Red, Red Wine

by Richard Travelstead

The obvious answer to the question, “Did Jesus turn water into wine?” is Yes. At the marriage feast in Cana of Galilee recorded in John 2:1-11, Jesus turned water into wine. However, this question does not usually ask what is meant by it. What is usually meant is “Did Jesus make intoxicating wine?” And the answer is No.  Let me explain.

The word translated “wine” in English can refer to either alcoholic or non-alcoholic wine. At present, the term “wine” is almost used exclusively of alcoholic wine, but let us never be guilty of interpretation based solely upon modern day definitions. Consider these examples of the word “wine” being used in Scripture with reference to unfermented grape juice.
•    Joel 1:10 says “The field is wasted, the land mourneth; for the corn is wasted: the new wine is dried up, the oil languisheth.” (This refers to grapes dried up in the fields, which could not be intoxicating.)
•    Isaiah 65:8 says “Thus saith the LORD, As the new wine is found in the cluster, and one saith, Destroy it not; for a blessing is in it: so will I do for my servants’ sakes, that I may not destroy them all.”
(Alcoholic wine in the cluster? No, the juice of the grape while in the cluster could not be intoxicating.)
•    Jeremiah 48:33 says “And joy and gladness is taken from the plentiful field, and from the land of Moab; and I have caused wine to fail from the winepresses: none shall tread with shouting; their shouting shall be no shouting.” (The wine of fresh squeezed grapes coming out of the winepress is grape juice and could not be fermented.) Certainly other passages could be considered, but these are sufficient to illustrate that the word “wine” can refer to alcoholic wine or simply grape juice.
“So, how do we know when it refers to grape juice or intoxicating wine?” The context in which the word is found will determine whether it refers to alcoholic or non- alcoholic wine. So, consider the context.
The immediate context of John 2:1-11 is quite clear. The guests at the marriage feast of Cana were able to discern between the quality of the drink that the Lord had made and that which had already been served. If intoxicating wine had been served, and people “well drunk” or “drunk freely” of it (verse 10), then they would not have had such keen discernment. Though the amount is not specified as to what they had previously drunk, if they consumed the six waterpots that Jesus had the servants fill with water and which contained “two or three firkins apiece” (verse 6), then they would have consumed somewhere between 106 to 162 gallons of booze! This is far more than enough to make the most casual drinker drunk. Those who twist this account to condone social drinking say the term “well drunk” refers to the idea that the crowd was so drunk that they could not distinguish. However, the point of “the governor of the feast” to the bridegroom is that the guests were able to discern between the “worse” and the “good wine.” If it is the case that these wedding guests were so drunk that they could not distinguish, then the Lord made the six pots of alcoholic beverage for those who were already strongly under the influence, and caused them to be even more drunk!  Thus, the “good wine” of the wedding feast of Canaan must have been the fresh juice of the grape.
Also, consider the logical consequence of those who want to use this passage to justify the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Their argument goes something like this: “Since Jesus produced alcoholic wine, then it is morally right for a person to drink it.” However, notice that their logic takes them further than most of them want to go. Since Jesus produced alcoholic wine (as they claim), then not only would it be morally right to drink, it would be morally right to produce it, sell it, distribute it, and make a living from it. But since that would most certainly cause someone to stumble, then it must be morally right to cause someone to stumble. However, the logical consequence of their argument would oppose the Lord’s teaching (Luke 17:1-2). No, the reasoning is a foolish argument that has no foundation in scripture.
Further, consider the general context of the Bible. Habakkuk wrote, “Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!” (2:15). The sin Habakkuk is rebuking is the sin of contributing to drunkenness. If Jesus supplied intoxicating wine to the wedding guests at Cana, then He contributed to their intoxication.
Not only did Jesus contribute to it, He, also, condoned and encouraged people to get completely soused! Since intoxication is sinful, then Jesus sinned, and the “woe” of Habakkuk would be upon Him. If this be the case, then it would be better for Jesus “that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea” (Luke 17:2).  As a perfect man, Jesus could not have turned water into alcoholic wine and offered such to others.
Another passage to consider in this context is Proverbs 23:31-32, which says, “Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.” If Jesus had turned water into intoxicating wine, then He would have caused others to look upon the wine when it is red opposing the wisdom of Solomon. Since, Jesus is “greater than Solomon” (Matthew 12:42), He would know the wisdom of sobriety and would not tempt others with an intoxicating beverage. Again,
Solomon wrote, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1).  “What, then, was the miracle of the wedding feast in Cana?” The miracle of Cana was that Jesus surpassed or transcended the normal amount of time and the natural process that it takes to produce and harvest grape juice. That, which normally takes months, took Jesus but a moment.

With close examination, we must conclude that the Lord did not make intoxicating wine at the marriage feast in Cana of Galilee. “Did Jesus turn water into wine?”  Yes.  “Did Jesus turn water into intoxicating wine?” Absolutely Not!
Alcohol has caused and/or contributed to broken homes, every kind of accident imaginable, disease both physical and mental, poverty, and crimes of every kind. Since its effect is such, it is beyond my own imagination why anyone would ever want to justify its use let alone mar the Lord’s perfect example with its production and distribution. Its use is not social in any way but is in every way antisocial. Its defense by sweet-talking, soft-pedaling, so-called preachers is religiously hypocritical, morally irresponsible, and socially despicable. It has victimized the unborn, children, teenagers, the middle aged, and the old. It has victimized business people and laborers, country folks and city folks, the rich and the poor. There is probably not one person who has not felt its evil bite and its viperous sting! It is beyond my reasoning power to understand how people who claim to be spiritually minded and morally upright will rationalize its use. Rather than justifying its use, let us stand diametrically opposed to it for “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”

Finding Forgiveness

Article by Pastor Nix

Mary Karr’s uncle had endured all he could stand!  The tall Texan grabbed his chain saw and began to split his own house into two halves.  He was sick and tired of living with such an unforgiving woman to whom he had not spoken in months.  He had enough.  He divided his house and moved her portion a few hundred feet away.  The two of them finished their days on earth living on the same farm, in the same house… living two very separate lives.
That sad-but-true story is all too real in our community.  Many husbands and wives, moms and dads, will park their cars in the same garage, pillow their head under the same roof, eat from the same refrigerator—yet live two separate lives.  How does this happen?  Why do we continue to put ourselves and our families through this?  Plain and simple, the reason is: unforgiveness.
SET FREE
To forgive someone is to set them free.  We set them free of the penalty and debt that they owe us.  When you have been wronged, something has been taken from you, someone has damaged you, injured you, or taken advantage of you—the greatest thing you will ever do is to let go.  To forgive.  To set them free.  It’s easier said than done, isn’t it?  Even though we know it’s the right thing to do, that doesn’t mean we will—sometimes I want to forgive and feel like I can’t!  It’s not just a switch that I can flip and just, poof, there it is.  It’s not that easy, and God knows that!  He understands, that’s why He always links your decision to forgive another to a motivator (blessing) or a consequence (curse).  (Read Matthew 6:14-15 for a compelling example.)
The funny thing about forgiveness is that it doesn’t just set them free, it sets you free, too.  It frees you from the acid of resentment.  It allows the wound to begin healing.  When you forgive, you release yourself from negative emotions that will hold you hostage.  The Bible is very clear about how bitterness will continue to cut and hurt your spirit (Hebrews 12:15).  But that’s not all… the Scriptures teach that if the grudge isn’t dealt with, it’s toxins will leak out of our lives and ruin those closest to us.
FORGIVING YOURSELF
People like Oprah and Dr. Phil are mainstreaming the idea that we cannot truly forgive anyone else unless we first forgive ourselves. We have all tried to apologize to someone only to have them refuse it.  I have longed to say that I’m sorry after it’s too late and they’re gone.  I know what it’s like to need to hear that I’m forgiven and to never have the satisfaction. And that’s why I can’t stop punishing myself for my mistakes.
The reason that it’s so hard to forgive yourself is because it’s impossible!  You and I can’t set ourselves free—no more than a prisoner can will himself outside of the bars and razor-wire. Freedom must come from a higher authority—from God.  The Bible never mentions forgiving yourself.  Not one time. Our need is forgiveness,  but not the kind you can give yourself… but the freedom that God gives.
Matthew 18:21-35 tells the story of a servant who owed the king $15 million—but was totally forgiven.  He could not repay, yet due to the kindness of the King, he would not have to!  This servant then went out found a fellow-servant, grabbed him by the throat, and demanded $5,000 from him.  Since the debtor could not repay, he was cast into prison.  When the King heard the news, He demanded that his servant be brought to Him.  Since this man received grace and forgiveness, yet could not grant the same, he would be judged.
You and I have been totally forgiven.  Our sins have been paid for.  That’s why Jesus Christ died on the cross—to suffer the punishment that you and I deserve.  Just like He accepted the blame so that we would not have to, we must accept what He did as the payment for our sins.  I met a man a few months ago that told me he was good enough to get to heaven.  It shocked me!  He said that he was a good man—better than most — and that he thought that was enough.  I asked him, “If we can be good enough to get to Heaven, then why did Jesus have to die?”  He replied, “That’s easy, for the bad ones.”  What he was saying was that he did not need (nor accept) what Jesus did for him.  He did not want God’s charity (Romans 5:8).  Until we experience God’s forgiveness, we will never be able to forgive those who hurt us.
REMEMBER THE DUCK
On impulse, Billy pulled back and let the slingshot go—killing his target, Grandma’s pet duck.  He panicked and hid the dead duck under the woodpile only to look up and see his sister, Sally, silently watching with a sly grin.
After lunch, Grandma asked Sally to help with dishes.  “Johnny wants to do them today.  Don’t you?”  Then she whispered, “Remember the duck.”  So he did the dishes.
Later Grandpa asked if Johnny wanted to go fishing.  Sally jumped in, volunteering Johnny to help with supper.  He protested—until she whispered, “Remember the duck.”  She went fishing as he helped with supper.  After several days of doing both his chores and Sally’s, he couldn’t stand it any more.  He confessed to Grandma what he’d done.
“I know, Johnny,” she said, giving him a hug.  “I was standing at the window and saw the whole thing.  Because I love you, I forgave you.  I wondered how long you would let Sally make a slave of you.”                      -Richard Hoefler
God already knows, and He’s forgiven you.  Have you accepted it?  We must confess (come clean) to lift the guilt and to be set free from the slavery of sin’s whispers.  Aren’t you tired of being a slave?  I am.  (Read Romans 6:9-14 & 1 John 1:9)

Why Do You Go to Church?

Article by Tera Winchenbach

Why do you go to church? A friend and I were discussing this topic a few weeks ago. She seemed like something was missing from her church or her relationship with God. So I posed the question, “Why do you go to church?” Her response, after some thinking was, “It’s what we are supposed to do.” Some of you might agree. I, at one time, did also. Other reasons I have heard people give are, “We were dragged to church as kids so that’s all we know” or “My parents make me come” or “We now have kids and they should be in church” or (my favorite) “We have to make God happy or He won’t take care of us.”
If you do go to church –Praise the Lord! If you go because of one of these or some other irrelevant reason, please stop and think about God’s command — “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” Psalm 103:1 Do you go to church to bless, praise and worship the great God we have? Do you thank Him often for his love, mercy and grace? I could go on and on writing about our Marvelous God!
I am no expert at this. I was raised in a great Christian home and attended a wonderful Baptist church and Christian school. I had strict standards and high morals. I was saved at the age of 9. From the outward looking in, people thought I lived the model Christian life. I played church. I did what was expected and little more. I went because I knew I was supposed to and most often I wanted to. But I did not understand how to worship God. Up until a few months ago did I really get it. Oh, I was thankful for what the Lord had done for me. He has always taken care of me and most of all, He saved me. But I never knew what it was to truly worship and praise him; what it was like to be in the middle of God’s palm and to experience His unconditional love. I have felt God’s presence in His House. I have witnessed His awesome power. Now, I’m not talking about some hokey-pokey junk or magic. I am talking about the true presence of God; the possibility that He just might speak to us if we would only listen.
Let me ask you a few more things. Why is it that the world accepts it if we cheer and go crazy for a professional sports player? Why is it okay to get excited at a music concert? Why do we yell at the TV when “our team” is not playing well? Why do new Presidents get so much fame and attention? Have we lost sight of our purpose in life?
If you are a child of God and you go to church, please evaluate your reasons. Do you go to give God the glory for all He has done? Do you go to worship and cheer for Him? Do you want to praise Him for His mighty power? Do you want to thank Him endlessly for sending His only Son to die for your sins? That alone should get you excited. You should want to be shouting your praises to Him! I know I do.
In whatever church you attend, please join me in worshipping God for everything He has done or will do. We are so undeserving, yet He just keeps giving. Thank you Lord!!!!

From the Ballroom to the Kingdom

Article by Tara Chadwell

Living life without Jesus had brought me a large collection of masks. Just a short time ago, I LOVED my room full of masks. I had one for every occasion, every outfit, every circumstance and my most favorite mask of happiness. This mask was the most beautiful of all. Everyone that walked across my path noticed it and  “loved me.” This mask brought so much to my life…..much more than any of the others. This mask grabbed much attention. You see, this one was the most colorful and bright, and it reflected light like no other. When light hit the jewels, everyone noticed and the attention gave me everything that I needed. Happiness of course, followed by pride, a healthy dose of arrogance, beauty, power, confidence and security. As I wore this mask it became more and more a part of me as if it were attaching to my flesh. I began to wear it constantly because removing it was too painful. It was more comfortable to leave it on, why would I want to take it off anyway?

In my mask of happiness, my life was what seemed to be perfect until it was shaken by a car accident involving my grandparents. My mask did several things, but there are also things my mask DID NOT DO! My prize possession DID NOT CRY or SHOW DESPAIR! What was this? My best friend, my comforter, my security, was ripped from my face. I was lost. I had nothing to cover the ugliness, shame, guilt, insecurity, filthiness, jealousy, selfishness, hatred, anger or any self-seeking ambition that this mask covered. I was bare. For the first time in thirty-one years, I was bare for all to see, and this all happened in a matter of seconds. While rushing on July 25, 2004 to the scene of the accident, I cried out to God. Never before had I done this, never had I prayed like I did in my car that sunny day. Never had I asked for God’s Will, I’d never even heard those two words together, not to my recollection.

This was the day that Jesus, the Light of the World, brushed His light across my face. There was no mask to deflect it or reflect a cheap fake to others. There was no longer a disguise to obscure my character. It was then that I found truth, peace, happiness, and love all in the midst of a storm.

The Bible says that the eye is a lamp unto the body. If we are staring at one another with eyes of darkness, judgment, and condemnation, how will anyone ever see Christ? Jesus touched and healed a leper! We often mock or turn our heads from someone with a tattoo, piercings or odd clothing. Is this the way Jesus served? Jesus as we know loves the unlovable! He looks beyond the facade and loves us anyway. Remember even through a mask you can see the eyes if you choose and we know that God sees and judges the heart and its motivation.

When I find myself standing back in the ballroom, I’m reminded that I’m holding a mask and not the cross. If I’m not putting on Jesus daily…..I’ve settled for an imposter which holds no key to the Kingdom.

You’ll find Tara Chadwell (most any day) teaching at her dance studio, Grace in Motion, 57 West Main, Taylorsville.  For more info, call 477-1110.