Take Heart and Finish

Zech. 8: 1 Then another message came to me from the LORD Almighty: 2 "This is what the LORD Almighty says: My love for Mount Zion is passionate and strong; I am consumed with passion for Jerusalem! 3 And now the LORD says: I am returning to Mount Zion, and I will live in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the Faithful City; the mountain of the LORD Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain. 4 This is what the LORD Almighty says: Once again old men and women will walk Jerusalem's streets with a cane and sit together in the city squares. 5 And the streets of the city will be filled with boys and girls at play. 6 "This is what the LORD Almighty says: All this may seem impossible to you now, a small and discouraged remnant of God's people. But do you think this is impossible for me, the LORD Almighty? 7 This is what the LORD Almighty says: You can be sure that I will rescue my people from the east and from the west. 8 I will bring them home again to live safely in Jerusalem. They will be my people, and I will be faithful and just toward them as their God.

9 "This is what the LORD Almighty says: Take heart and finish the task!


The promises of God are sure. I love the truths of this passage. God's love is passionate and strong! He has promised to live in Jerusalem. I believe this to be a promise for the new heaven and earth that will be installed at Christ's 2nd coming.
God wants streets where children play and the elderly are safe.

The present however seems discouraging.. the small remnant. But God is in the business of doing the impossible.

Until then, I need to take heart and fight for the cause of my KING!

The Cure for a Downcast Soul

I Chronicles 16:8 Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done. 9 Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his miracles. 10 Exult in his holy name; O worshipers of the LORD, rejoice! 11 Search for the LORD and for his strength, and keep on searching. 12 Think of the wonderful works he has done, the miracles, and the judgments he handed down, 13 O children of Israel, God's servant, O descendants of Jacob, God's chosen one. 14 He is the LORD our God. His rule is seen throughout the land. 15 He always stands by his covenant – the commitment he made to a thousand generations.

We lost 36-9 last night. It was the worst loss I have suffered since 1994. I am supposed to be an offensive coach, and we shot nothing but blanks. Our Qb's went 9-39 for 90 yds and 3 INTs- 2 of which were returned for TD's. It hurts.

Then this was my Bible reading this morning. How could I not sing praises to my King? I do give thanks to Him. I will tell of His miracles. I will continue to search for Him for His strength. I will think of the wonderful works he has done.

He always keeps His promises...and they are so good!

talk about a pick me up......Amen

Coming Up Short?

Haggai 1:3 So the LORD sent this message through the prophet Haggai: 4 "Why are you living in luxurious houses while my house lies in ruins? 5 This is what the LORD Almighty says: Consider how things are going for you! 6 You have planted much but harvested little. You have food to eat, but not enough to fill you up. You have wine to drink, but not enough to satisfy your thirst. You have clothing to wear, but not enough to keep you warm. Your wages disappear as though you were putting them in pockets filled with holes! 7 "This is what the LORD Almighty says: Consider how things are going for you! 8 Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the LORD. 9 You hoped for rich harvests, but they were poor. And when you brought your harvest home, I blew it away. Why? Because my house lies in ruins, says the LORD Almighty, while you are all busy building your own fine houses. 10 That is why the heavens have withheld the dew and the earth has withheld its crops. 11 I have called for a drought on your fields and hills – a drought to wither the grain and grapes and olives and all your other crops, a drought to starve both you and your cattle and to ruin everything you have worked so hard to get."

In our land of opportunity and prosperity, depression is at an all-time high. We are busier than ever and have more toys and leisure than any previous generation. But we are drifting from God. We must rebuild the church.

It is not about attendance- it is about content. We must preach and live the truth!

13 Then Haggai, the LORD's messenger, gave the people this message from the LORD: "I am with you, says the LORD!"

4 But now take courage, Zerubbabel, says the LORD. Take courage, Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Take courage, all you people still left in the land, says the LORD. Take courage and work, for I am with you, says the LORD Almighty. 5 My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid. 6 "For this is what the LORD Almighty says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth. I will shake the oceans and the dry land, too. 7 I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come to this Temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the LORD Almighty. 8 The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the LORD Almighty. 9 The future glory of this Temple will be greater than its past glory, says the LORD Almighty. And in this place I will bring peace. I, the LORD Almighty, have spoken!"

God will keep His promises- Oh Father, please send the spark of revival again or better yet- please come back pronto!

The Most Important Piece of Jabez's Prayer

II Chronicles 4:9 There was a man named Jabez who was more distinguished than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. 10 He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and extend my lands! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!" And God granted him his request.

This verse led to a huge best seller- "The Prayer of Jabez"- and it is a wonderful verse. Scripture encourages us to seek the Lord and wrestle with Him in prayer. And Jabez did pray a good prayer.

The most important piece is, however, "God granted".

What if God said. "NO". He has the right to say, "Jabez, for my glory I will not extend your land, I will not relent in trouble or pain."

The thing I love is that I bet Jabez would say, "I am Yours O Lord- do as You wish."

Our blessing and reward will primarily be after this life. He blesses us even now. Grace allows us to breathe and live.

God loves us- and sometimes that love hurts. But it is for our good and His glory!

Help When I am Low

Micah 7:1 What misery is mine! I feel like the fruit picker after the harvest who can find nothing to eat. Not a cluster of grapes or a single fig can be found to satisfy my hunger. 2 The godly people have all disappeared; not one fair-minded person is left on the earth.

7 As for me, I look to the LORD for his help. I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear me. 8 Do not gloat over me, my enemies! For though I fall, I will rise again. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD himself will be my light. 9 I will be patient as the LORD punishes me, for I have sinned against him. But after that, he will take up my case and punish my enemies for all the evil they have done to me. The LORD will bring me out of my darkness into the light, and I will see his righteousness. 10 Then my enemies will see that the LORD is on my side.

14 O LORD, come and rule your people; lead your flock in green pastures. Help them to live in peace and prosperity.

18 Where is another God like you, who pardons the sins of the survivors among his people? You cannot stay angry with your people forever, because you delight in showing mercy. 19 Once again you will have compassion on us. You will trample our sins under your feet and throw them into the depths of the ocean! 20 You will show us your faithfulness and unfailing love as you promised with an oath to our ancestors Abraham and Jacob long ago.

Lord, thank you for lifting me up today- I trust in You- put my enemies-the world, my flesh, and the devil to shame.

My Hero- Hezekiah

2 Kings 18:"1 Hezekiah son of Ahaz began to rule over Judah in the third year of King Hoshea's reign in Israel. 2 He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-nine years. His mother was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah. 3 He did what was pleasing in the LORD's sight, just as his ancestor David had done. 4 He removed the pagan shrines, smashed the sacred pillars, and knocked down the Asherah poles. He broke up the bronze serpent that Moses had made, because the people of Israel had begun to worship it by burning incense to it. The bronze serpent was called Nehushtan. 5 Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was never another king like him in the land of Judah, either before or after his time. 6 He remained faithful to the LORD in everything, and he carefully obeyed all the commands the LORD had given Moses. 7 So the LORD was with him, and Hezekiah was successful in everything he did."

I want to be like this!

Doing what is pleasing in God's sight- notice the action and the motive

Removing idols and turning hearts toward God- toughness and intentionality

Trusting in God- inner peace and strength

Remained faithful- remaining- a focus on persevering a long time

Carefully obeying- study-introspection- commitment to change

God was with him and he had success in everything

What a resume!

Triumphant Procession

II Corin. 2:14 "But thanks be to God, who made us his captives and leads us along in Christ's triumphal procession. Now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Good News like a sweet perfume. 15 Our lives are a fragrance presented by Christ to God."

Micah 5:4 " 4 And he (the Ruler from Bethlehem- Jesus) will stand to lead his flock with the LORD's strength, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. Then his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored all around the world. 5 And he will be the source of our peace."

7 "Then the few left in Israel will go out among the nations. They will be like dew sent by the LORD or like rain falling on the grass, which no one can hold back. 8 The remnant of Israel will go out among the nations and be as strong as a lion. And the other nations will be like helpless sheep, with no one to rescue them. 9 The people of Israel will stand up to their foes, and all their enemies will be wiped out."

AMEN- AMEN-AMEN- I AM ON THE WINNING TEAM! AND IT FEELS SO GOOD!

The Worm and Tiger Also

6 And the LORD God arranged for a leafy plant to grow there, and soon it spread its broad leaves over Jonah's head, shading him from the sun. This eased some of his discomfort, and Jonah was very grateful for the plant. 7 But God also prepared a worm!

William Blake asked the question- Did He who made the Lamb also make the Tiger? He could see God in the Lamb. Meek, mild, and tender. But surely not the tiger- that steely killler.

God ordains the shade, but he also prepares the worm.

And it is all to His glory! He is Lord!

A Myriad of Purposes- A Tapestry of Triumph

I Corinthians 12: 5 "There are different kinds of service in the church, but it is the same Lord we are serving. 6 There are different ways God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work through all of us."


Our Bible Department head, Bill Delvaux, has the neatest illustration. He holds up the backside of a beautiful tapestry and reveals all the stitches and thread. It looks like a jumbled mess! But when He turns it around- there is a beautiful handiwork of art.

God is weaving throughout all of history and life experiences, a tapestry of triumph- His GLORY ! It is so complex, that as we look at the individual stitches- the back of the shawl- it seems convoluded and confused.

One family struggles with cancer or depression, another family celebrates the birth of a child. One man finds faith while another curses God to his grave.

One church thrives with excitement while another barely flickers with hope. One city seems to never have a day of change or excitement, while another is bombed almost daily.

Where is God?

He is still at work- spreading His good news of hope! He works in a myriad of different ways- but He alone will triumph.

Come to Christ today, and be a part of His beautiful handiwork!

Where are the Idols?

I Corin. 10: 5 5 Yet after all this, God was not pleased with most of them, and he destroyed them in the wilderness.
6 These events happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did 7 or worship idols as some of them did. For the Scriptures say, "The people celebrated with feasting and drinking, and they indulged themselves in pagan revelry." 8 And we must not engage in sexual immorality as some of them did, causing 23,000 of them to die in one day. 9 Nor should we put Christ to the test, as some of them did and then died from snakebites. 10 And don't grumble as some of them did, for that is why God sent his angel of death to destroy them. 11 All these events happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us, who live at the time when this age is drawing to a close. 12 If you think you are standing strong, be careful, for you, too, may fall into the same sin. 13 But remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it. 14 So, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols."

I'm really enjoying the NLT of I Corinthians- Paul is so good and God's Word is so powerful.

This is a great passage. The OT is a reminder to us of God's nature and a warning to us on how to displease the Lord. Even after the people experienced His miracles, in the end, God was not pleased with the people and ended up destroying them.
Why? Because we constantly run to idols-maybe not the wooden ones- but we have them all around.

They are represented in our cravings -

Amos 8: 5" You can't wait for the Sabbath day to be over and the religious festivals to end so you can get back to cheating the helpless." The parallel is that we get restless in the things of God and crave worldly things.

They are represented in our grumblings-

Idols tend to make us spoiled and ungrateful.

Next time in worship ask yourself- what does my mind stray to? Is it sexual desires. or leisure, or work. or worries- Sad to say, I think a lot about football- I need to cast those out- all things must be in subjection to Christ.

By the way- the worst state is pride- if you say " I have no idols"- then you are risking the greatest loss of all- Pride prevents the true cure- the blood of Jesus from covering your idol worship.

So- I have idols- I need to throw them down and flee from my cravings and grumbling- I need to lean on Jesus to help me in my idol worship and my only hope is His great mercy and forgiveness.

God is faithful!

The Valley of Decision

Joel 4:14 Thousands upon thousands are waiting in the valley of decision. It is there that the day of the LORD will soon arrive.

This verse just stuck upon me this morning. It is in the context of all the nations gathering for the last big battle of man. All of his greed, and evil is about to push the winepress over the brink. God will soon begin squashing His grapes of wrath- and no one will be able to stand.

Before the day of the Lord- there is still room, there is still time...but it is fleeting.

You, my friend, are in a valley of decision.

Choose well.

Too Simple

Joel 2:32 And anyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.

Is it that simple? The answer is YES... and NO. All the Lord requires is belief..trust....faith. We call on HIM to save us. We trust Him and not ourselves.

If the Lord required money...only the rich could be saved
If the Lord required secret or special knowledge...only the wise could be saved
if the Lord required our works...only the strong and disciplined could be saved

He requires faith- which makes it possible for all to be saved.

I do not trust my good deeds. I do not trust anything to save me but the Lord Jesus Christ.

I will be before the Lord one day in judgement. When I see His holiness, I will be in total awe. My only hope is the covering of Christ. And He is enough.

Simple for us- impossible for us- Yet He makes the way- It was hard for Him and complex- He has made it very clear to us!

Called to a Friendship

I Corinthians I Comments

"2 We are writing to the church of God in Corinth, you who have been called by God to be his own holy people. He made you holy by means of Christ Jesus, just as he did all Christians everywhere – whoever calls upon the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and theirs."

Being made holy through Christ- do we really understand how awesome that is? I committed a sin yesterday- I read in the OT this morning how that same sin caused the death of a man of God- yet I am here- alive and writing. Why? Jesus Christ took my death- Oh Forgive me Lord- I have heard that message so many times that I am hard to its true impact! I am alive- I am considered holy in God's eyes! What a Savior!!!

"9 God will surely do this for you, for he always does just what he says, and he is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."

Wow- God keeps His word- He always does what He says- again, in the OT- if He commanded a curse- it always happened- but I am invited to be a friend to His son! It is a wonderful friendship indeed!

"10 Now, dear brothers and sisters, I appeal to you by the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ to stop arguing among yourselves. Let there be real harmony so there won't be divisions in the church. I plead with you to be of one mind, united in thought and purpose."

If God has made me holy through Christ- if He has welcomed me into His family- is this too hard to ask- that I be a unifier- and seek real harmony with my brothers in the church? Lord- this one is easy- I forgive others- I look for the good- I speak well of others- I do not participate in gossip or inflamatory criticism- I seek the cause of Christ.

Father, the enemy wants to divide us- please pour out a spirit of unity!

The Gracious Offer of Repentance

Hosea 14:1 Return, O Israel, to the LORD your God, for your sins have brought you down. 2 Bring your petitions, and return to the LORD. Say to him, "Forgive all our sins and graciously receive us, so that we may offer you the sacrifice of praise. 3 Assyria cannot save us, nor can our strength in battle. Never again will we call the idols we have made 'our gods.' No, in you alone do the orphans find mercy."

4 The LORD says, "Then I will heal you of your idolatry and faithlessness, and my love will know no bounds, for my anger will be gone forever! 5 I will be to Israel like a refreshing dew from heaven. It will blossom like the lily; it will send roots deep into the soil like the cedars in Lebanon. 6 Its branches will spread out like those of beautiful olive trees, as fragrant as the cedar forests of Lebanon. 7 My people will return again to the safety of their land. They will flourish like grain and blossom like grapevines. They will be as fragrant as the wines of Lebanon.

8 "O Israel, stay away from idols! I am the one who looks after you and cares for you. I am like a tree that is always green, giving my fruit to you all through the year." 9 Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those who are discerning listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. But sinners stumble and fall along the way.

I am amazed how as humans we shrink back from this offer- Some say "I've just been to bad" and don't believe God's word concerning His love- Some say "I just need to hide it from His pure eyes" God saw you and he knows- He doesn't approve,but He is not thrown back- His arms are open- Some say 'I'm too good or I'm not that bad" These are the hardest to reach.

Return to Christ- He forgives- He restores- He loves- He blesses!

Amnesia of the Flesh

Hosea 13:"5 I took care of you in the wilderness, in that dry and thirsty land. 6 But when you had eaten and were satisfied, then you became proud and forgot me."

I Kings 11:1 "Now King Solomon loved many foreign women. Besides Pharaoh's daughter, he married women from Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon, and from among the Hittites. 2 The LORD had clearly instructed his people not to intermarry with those nations, because the women they married would lead them to worship their gods. Yet Solomon insisted on loving them anyway. 3 He had seven hundred wives and three hundred concubines. And sure enough, they led his heart away from the LORD."

Our hearts are prone to wander. Some of the finest believers with great intentions and early success have ended up in states of rebellion and sin. How does this happen? I believe it happens slowly, thought by thought, moment by moment.

Is there protection from this? Daily ingestion of God's Word helps. An active prayer life- fellowship in a good, Bible teaching church- allow the Holy Spirit to direct and shine on sin.

Usually leisure and success make us more vulnerable- beware the butterslide of praise.

Father, my heart is continually drifting...anchor me to You and Your truth!

Prayer for America

We had a wonderful 4th- we rode bikes to a local neighborhood parade- went downtown for a festival- and ended up at a park for a concert and fireworks! It was a beautiful to celebrate such a wonderful country- And I live in a great part of the nation- God fearing- family loving, gracious people!

Dear God Our Father,
In this time of great division and danger, we ask that you help us. Not that we deserve it, but we want to continue to be a beacon of hope and a model of success. This life is a mixed bag and a temporary host. May you allow us to continue being a preservative of the natural entropy of order.
Lord, the churches are dark in the old land and selfishness reigns. Intellectual imperialism tickles the ears but salve no wounds. Our churches are flickering. Please revive us- give us soft hearts of love and united hearts of courage. We wimper in our prosperity and hoard our greed.
Be gracious to our leaders and heal our land.
In the name and example of Christ,
AMEN

Press ON

Hosea 6:"1 "Come, let us return to the LORD! He has torn us in pieces; now he will heal us. He has injured us; now he will bandage our wounds. 2 In just a short time, he will restore us so we can live in his presence. 3 Oh, that we might know the LORD! Let us press on to know him!"

I watched the movie, Seabiscuit, again last night- it is a stirring inspiration to press on. When times are tough-just keep digging, clawing, and be patient- good days are ahead. When we are struggling, we learn to lean harder on Him - we become more dependent on HIm, we learn that He is all we need.

Solomon felt unable to carry out his tasks- so he went to the Lord and asked for wisdom- God rewarded that pursuit- we need to press on- the NT tells us to press on toward the high calling of God in Christ.

Press on to God

Magic of Childhood

Mark10:13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch them and bless them, but the disciples told them not to bother him. 14 But when Jesus saw what was happening, he was very displeased with his disciples. He said to them, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 I assure you, anyone who doesn't have their kind of faith will never get into the Kingdom of God." 16 Then he took the children into his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them"

We have been at an amusement park this week with my wife and girls. I love watching their incredible ecitement and joy! They get so excited they can't sit still. That is the magic of childhood- an excitement about life! They are eager and innocent- they look to me to provide and just enjoy the moments!
One morning, my youngest flew over and hugged me- Thanks Dad!- it made me a mile high!

Father- I just wish I could give You a moment like that!

REST

Mark 6:31 "Then Jesus said, "Let's get away from the crowds for a while and rest."

We are coming up on a 2 week period in TN called the Dead Period- no contact with players. I will use this time for some needed rest!

Thank you Lord for apace in life- for weariness and renewal!

"The Moment You Began Praying"

Daniel 9:"17 "O our God, hear your servant's prayer! Listen as I plead. For your own sake, Lord, smile again on your desolate sanctuary. 18 "O my God, listen to me and hear my request. Open your eyes and see our wretchedness. See how your city lies in ruins – for everyone knows that it is yours. We do not ask because we deserve help, but because you are so merciful. 19 "O Lord, hear. O Lord, forgive. O Lord, listen and act! For your own sake, O my God, do not delay, for your people and your city bear your name."

20 I went on praying and confessing my sin and the sins of my people, pleading with the LORD my God for Jerusalem, his holy mountain. 21 As I was praying, Gabriel, whom I had seen in the earlier vision, came swiftly to me at the time of the evening sacrifice. 22 He explained to me, "Daniel, I have come here to give you insight and understanding. 23 The moment you began praying, a command was given. I am here to tell you what it was, for God loves you very much."


What a great passage to encourage prayer!
Daniel's prayer was persistent
Daniel's prayer was penitent

Daniel prayed for God to see,hear,forgive,act- and do it without delay
It was based not on the people deserving this act, but on the good name of God- "Your people bear Your name"

Smile again on us O Lord

An Inspirational Song

Man Of The Tombs - Bob Bennett

Man of the tombs
He lives in a place where no one goes
And he tears at himself
And lives with a pain that no one knows
He counts himself dead among the living
He knows no mercy and no forgiving
Deep in the night he's driven to cry out loud
Can you hear him cry out loud?

Man of the tombs
Possessed by an unseen enemy
He breaks every chain
And mistakes his freedom for being free
Shame and shamelessness equally there
Like a random toss of a coin in the air
Man of the tombs, he's driven to cry out loud

   Underneath this thing that I've become
   A fading memory of flesh and blood
   I curse the womb, I bless the grave
   I've lost my heart, I cannot be saved
   Like those who fear me, I'm afraid
   Like those I've hurt, I can feel pain
   Naked now before my sin
   And these stones that cut against my skin
   Some try to touch me, but no one can
   For man of the tombs I am

Down at the shoreline
Two sets of footprints meet
One voice is screaming
Other voice begins to speak
In only a moment and only a word
The evil departs like a thundering herd
Man of the tombs, he hears this cry out loud

   Underneath this thing that you've become
   I see a man of flesh and blood
   I give you life beyond the grave
   I heal your heart, I come to save
   No need to fear, be not afraid
   This Man of sorrows knows your pain
   I come to take away your sin
   And bear it's marks upon My skin
   When no one can touch you, still I can
   For Son of God I am

Dressed now and seated
Clean in spirit and healthy of mind
Man of the tombs
He begs to follow, but must stay behind
He'll return to has family with stories to tell
Of mercy and madness, of heaven and hell
Man of the tombs, soon he will cry out loud

   Underneath this thing that I once was
   Now I'm a man of flesh and blood
   I have a life beyond the grave
   I found my heart, I can now be saved
   No need to fear, I am not afraid
   This Man of sorrows took my pain
   He comes to take away our sin
   And bear it's marks upon His skin
   I'm telling you this story because
   Man of the tombs I was

A Court Day is Set

Daniel 7:9 "9 I watched as thrones were put in place and the Ancient One sat down to judge. His clothing was as white as snow, his hair like whitest wool. He sat on a fiery throne with wheels of blazing fire, 10 and a river of fire flowed from his presence. Millions of angels ministered to him, and a hundred million stood to attend him. Then the court began its session, and the books were opened."

The supernatural world is real and in operation. Our secular society is so blinded by the enlightenment that we ignore the ancient words of truth. God is King and He is preparing to judge the nations. Are we ready?

My only hope is my Advocate- the Lord Jesus will represent me and offer His life as my atonement. He has ransomed me by His blood. I will be declared justified in the heavenly courts because of the power of the authority of my Savior.

Wow- what a glorious salvation!

God's Complete Protection and Victory

4 Then the other administrators and princes began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling his affairs, but they couldn't find anything to criticize. He was faithful and honest and always responsible. 5 So they concluded, "Our only chance of finding grounds for accusing Daniel will be in connection with the requirements of his religion."

6 So at last the king gave orders for Daniel to be arrested and thrown into the den of lions. The king said to him, "May your God, whom you worship continually, rescue you."

25 Then King Darius sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world: "Peace and prosperity to you! 26 "I decree that everyone throughout my kingdom should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel. For he is the living God, and he will endure forever. His kingdom will never be destroyed, and his rule will never end. 27 He rescues and saves his people; he performs miraculous signs and wonders in the heavens and on earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions." 28 So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.

Throughout history, God protects, defends, allows testing, then shows off- all for His glory!

Sin, Shame, and Redemption

II Samuel 11:27 b "But the LORD was very displeased with what David had done."

II Samuel 12: "7 Then Nathan said to David, "You are that man! The LORD, the God of Israel, says, 'I anointed you king of Israel and saved you from the power of Saul. 8 I gave you his house and his wives and the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. And if that had not been enough, I would have given you much, much more. 9 Why, then, have you despised the word of the LORD and done this horrible deed? For you have murdered Uriah and stolen his wife. 10 From this time on, the sword will be a constant threat to your family, because you have despised me by taking Uriah's wife to be your own. 11 "'Because of what you have done, I, the LORD, will cause your own household to rebel against you. I will give your wives to another man, and he will go to bed with them in public view. 12 You did it secretly, but I will do this to you openly in the sight of all Israel.'" 13 Then David confessed to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD."Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you, and you won't die for this sin. 14 But you have given the enemies of the LORD great opportunity to despise and blaspheme him, so your child will die."

19 But when David saw them whispering, he realized what had happened. "Is the baby dead?" he asked."Yes," they replied. 20 Then David got up from the ground, washed himself, put on lotions, and changed his clothes. Then he went to the Tabernacle and worshiped the LORD. After that, he returned to the palace and ate. 21 His advisers were amazed. "We don't understand you," they told him. "While the baby was still living, you wept and refused to eat. But now that the baby is dead, you have stopped your mourning and are eating again." 22 David replied, "I fasted and wept while the child was alive, for I said, 'Perhaps the LORD will be gracious to me and let the child live.' 23 But why should I fast when he is dead? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him one day, but he cannot return to me."

24 Then David comforted Bathsheba, his wife, and slept with her. She became pregnant and gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The LORD loved the child 25 and sent word through Nathan the prophet that his name should be Jedidiah – "beloved of the LORD" – because the LORD loved him."

Sin kills and destroys
Sin has consequences
Disobedience is punished
God's forgiveness is complete

The Last Few Days of Reading

II Sam 7:11 "'And now the LORD declares that he will build a house for you – a dynasty of kings! 12 For when you die, I will raise up one of your descendants, and I will make his kingdom strong. 13 He is the one who will build a house – a temple – for my name. And I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. If he sins, I will use other nations to punish him. 15 But my unfailing love will not be taken from him as I took it from Saul, whom I removed before you. 16 Your dynasty and your kingdom will continue for all time before me, and your throne will be secure forever.'"

That passage about Saul and God pulling His spirit from him really shook me up. What a terrible curse- here is a promise to David to not withdraw His spirit from his descendant- an implication that Solomon was spared when he drifted through foreign wives. I hold to this as a promise as a spiritual descendant of David!

This was another example of how the LORD made David victorious wherever he went.II Sam 8:14. Father, I desire Your victory- in all of life!

Daniel 4:37 "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and glorify and honor the King of heaven. All his acts are just and true, and he is able to humble those who are proud.- God's praise rings out through all of history!

A Voice of Praise

Daniel 2:"Then Daniel praised the God of heaven, 20 saying, "Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he alone has all wisdom and power. 21 He determines the course of world events; he removes kings and sets others on the throne. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. 22 He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he himself is surrounded by light. 23 I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors, for you have given me wisdom and strength." This morning, I hear many praises to God. My parakeet is chirping to the glory of God. I hear Christian music echoing glory to God. I read Daniel's praise and my heart is stirred. Thank you My God for mountains of blessings! They are too numerous to count!

Do it Right

I Sam 26"6  7 So David and Abishai went right into Saul's camp and found him asleep, with his spear stuck in the ground beside his head. Abner and the warriors were lying asleep around him. 8 "God has surely handed your enemy over to you this time!" Abishai whispered to David. "Let me thrust that spear through him. I'll pin him to the ground, and I won't need to strike twice!" 9 "No!" David said. "Don't kill him. For who can remain innocent after attacking the LORD's anointed one? 10 Surely the LORD will strike Saul down someday, or he will die in battle or of old age. 11 But the LORD forbid that I should kill the one he has anointed! But I'll tell you what – we'll take his spear and his jug of water and then get out of here!" 12 So David took the spear and jug of water that were near Saul's head. Then he and Abishai got away without anyone seeing them or even waking up, because the LORD had put Saul's men into a deep sleep.

13 David climbed the hill opposite the camp until he was at a safe distance. 14 Then he shouted down to Abner and Saul, "Wake up, Abner!""Who is it?" Abner demanded. 15 "Well, Abner, you're a great man, aren't you?" David taunted. "Where in all Israel is there anyone as mighty? So why haven't you guarded your master the king when someone came to kill him? 16 This isn't good at all! I swear by the LORD that you and your men deserve to die, because you failed to protect your master, the LORD's anointed! Look around! Where are the king's spear and the jug of water that were beside his head?" 17 Saul recognized David's voice and called out, "Is that you, my son David?"And David replied, "Yes, my lord the king. 18 Why are you chasing me? What have I done? What is my crime? 19 But now let my lord the king listen to his servant. If the LORD has stirred you up against me, then let him accept my offering. But if this is simply a human scheme, then may those involved be cursed by the LORD. For you have driven me from my home, so I can no longer live among the LORD's people and worship as I should. 20 Must I die on foreign soil, far from the presence of the LORD? Why has the king of Israel come out to search for a single flea? Why does he hunt me down like a partridge on the mountains?"

21 Then Saul confessed, "I have sinned. Come back home, my son, and I will no longer try to harm you, for you valued my life today. I have been a fool and very, very wrong." 22 "Here is your spear, O king," David replied. "Let one of your young men come over and get it. 23 The LORD gives his own reward for doing good and for being loyal, and I refused to kill you even when the LORD placed you in my power, for you are the LORD's anointed one. 24 Now may the LORD value my life, even as I have valued yours today. May he rescue me from all my troubles." 25 And Saul said to David, "Blessings on you, my son David. You will do heroic deeds and be a great conqueror." Then David went away, and Saul returned home."

David had remarkable courage- going right into Saul's camp. He had opportunity and a good excuse. He was even getting counsel to do the deed.

But David chose right this time and God blessed him. Saul proclaimed that he would do heroic deeds and have great victories.

Lord- I want to honor You and have great victories for You!

What I Said to My Team

We had a coach yesterday announce he is going to another school. I wanted to keep a log of what I said to some hurting young men.

1- It is OK to hurt- it is how you respond to the pain that is important
2- We pray for this coach, accept his decision as God's will
3- It does not create anger toward the school that hired him
4- You never know what will turn out to be a blessing
5- Get up, dust off, and get back to work

We closed in prayer- and got back to work

God's Part- My Part

I Sam 28:14 "David now stayed in the strongholds of the wilderness and in the hill country of Ziph. Saul hunted him day after day, but God didn't let him be found."

I have really enjoyed I Sam.- a strange and fascinating book! David was shrewd and courageous. He was a warrior, but also a man of compassion.

As Saul was seeking to destroy him, David had to work at hiding- He had to plan and gave great effort to avoid Saul. But God was the one doing the protecting.

We work as if it all depends on us- we pray and trust like it all depends on God.

I was talking to my mechanic, Andy, about the world and its troubles. I said, "we really need to pray."
He said, "We better do more than pray."

And Andy was right!

Is Your God Big Enough?

Rom. 11:33 "Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods! 34 For who can know what the Lord is thinking? Who knows enough to be his counselor? 35 And who could ever give him so much that he would have to pay it back? 36 For everything comes from him; everything exists by his power and is intended for his glory. To him be glory evermore. Amen."

The God of the Bible has incredible attributes:
He owns all
He is eternally wise
He is sovereign and in control
He is above our human frailties
He has sacrificed for us- His own Son

Everything is held together by Him and everything gives Him glory.

One day, he will end history- and we will see that everything was ordained to glorify Him!

I want my salvation to bring Him this glory.

To my readers- you will glorify HIm- either as objects of salvation or objects of wrath. Please turn your heart to Him today!

Victory Laps of Praise

The verses this morning were so encouraging- and I needed them!

"So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 For the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you through Christ Jesus from the power of sin that leads to death." Romans 8:1,2

I sin so much. I read in the OT where God will cut off someone and remove His spirit from them. It happened to Saul. I don't want to live in disobedience and am so thankful for grace. I want more of Your Spirit- pour it out on our land!

"28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them."

This verse is so key for me. When I am disappointed, I trust in Him! He knows what He is about. History is his story. He holds me firmly and His plan is victory!

"despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us." WoW! A great promise!

"47 And everyone will know that the LORD does not need weapons to rescue his people. It is his battle, not ours. The LORD will give you to us! I Sam 17" Lord- You are my only hope!


"5 I wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. 6 He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken. 7 My salvation and my honor come from God alone. He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me.
8 O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62"

When the world seems to line up against me- when news seems disappointing- when momentum seems stalled- I sit here Lord...the victory is Yours- I wait for YOU!

Every Day a WIN!

Romans5:"1 Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us – they help us learn to endure. 4 And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. 5 And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love."

What does each day bring? Some days are exciting days of the sweetness of life. God gives these days- wonderful memories of family, experience, or achievement. Some days are painful, even tragic. These days are evidence of the curse of sin- I am a sinful man among sinful people. We experience brokenness, sickness, cancer, strained relationships and decay. Some days are just normal, forgettable days- but every day is a SPECIAL day.

It is special because of this wonderful "Therefore"- MADE RIGHT WITH GOD- WOOOHOOO! PEACE WITH GOD! YEAHHHH!

Wow- Paul wrote this in chains and with a body wracked with pain and scars. Yet he says, "privilege"- condidence- joy-rejoice- This is no "pie in the sky Art Linkletter stuff" this is true- EVERY DAY IS A WIN- whether good or bad, happy or sad! That makes me FIRED UP!

The hard days are blessing us with endurance of confident expectations! GOD LOVES US! WOOO HOOOOO! MY HEART IS FULL OF LOVE! AMEN- BLESS THE LORD FOR THIS SALVATION!!!!!

The Furnace of Faith

Romans4:"20 Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. 21 He was absolutely convinced that God was able to do anything he promised. 22 And because of Abraham's faith, God declared him to be righteous.
23 Now this wonderful truth – that God declared him to be righteous – wasn't just for Abraham's benefit. 24 It was for us, too, assuring us that God will also declare us to be righteous if we believe in God, who brought Jesus our Lord back from the dead. 25 He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised from the dead to make us right with God."

I keep coming back to this wonderful section. God is glorified when we are secure in HIm. He will do what He says. The bleaker the circumstance, the less likely it is to be true, the more that faith is formed, the more that God is glorified.

Contrast this to King Saul when he couldn't wait on Samuel.
I Sam. 13 "11 but Samuel said, "What is this you have done?"Saul replied, "I saw my men scattering from me, and you didn't arrive when you said you would, and the Philistines are at Micmash ready for battle. 12 So I said, 'The Philistines are ready to march against us, and I haven't even asked for the LORD's help!' So I felt obliged to offer the burnt offering myself before you came." 13 "How foolish!" Samuel exclaimed. "You have disobeyed the command of the LORD your God. Had you obeyed, the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. 14 But now your dynasty must end, for the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart. The LORD has already chosen him to be king over his people, for you have not obeyed the LORD's command."

Father, please help the circumstances of doubt and darkness forge a faith that pleases You! I do not want to be like Saul, always jumping to my flesh of control because of fear-I want to be an Abraham, trusting in You when it seems all is lost! You show Yourself to be the great Victor in those moments! It is more glorious to win when the war seems bleakest! My God and My KING!

The New Jew? A Paraphrase of Romans 2

17 If you are an Evangelical, you are relying on a knowledge of God's word for your special relationship with him. You boast that all is well between yourself and God. 18 Yes, you know what he wants; you know right from wrong because you have been taught his law. 19 You are convinced that you are a guide for the blind and a beacon light for people who are lost in darkness without God. 20 You think you can instruct the ignorant and teach children the ways of God. For you are certain that in God's law you have complete knowledge and truth. 21 Well then, if you teach others, why don't you teach yourself? You tell others not to steal, but do you steal? 22 You say it is wrong to commit adultery, but do you do it? You condemn idolatry, but do you steal from pagan temples? 23 You are so proud of knowing the law, but you dishonor God by breaking it. 24 No wonder the Scriptures say, "The world blasphemes the name of God because of you." 25 The Evangelical ceremony of baptism is worth something only if you obey God's law. But if you don't obey God's law, you are no better off than an unbaptized sinner. 26 And if the sinners obey God's law, won't God give them all the rights and honors of being his own people? 27 In fact, unbaptized sinners who keep God's law will be much better off than you evangelicals who are baptized and know so much about God's law but don't obey it. 28 For you are not a true believer just because you were born to evangelical parents or because you have gone through the evangelical ceremony of baptism. 29 No, a true believer is one whose heart is right with God. And true baptism is not an outward show but a change of heart produced by God's Spirit. Whoever has that kind of change seeks praise from God, not from people.

Oh Lord- I know I steal- I know my heart can be so far away from You! Please allow Your Spirit to continue our relationship of truth and love- not just going through the motions. Please be real to my children!

Spring Football - the Final Report

A blessed and profitable spring! Virtually injury free and a lot of fun. We were a little more physical and there is no comparison to where we were last year mentally.
We played a little intersquad scrimmage last Saturday with officials- big crowd and great weather!

Now the summer- 6 weeks of work to wall to wall football.

Without You Lord- there is no chance! We need to become warriors and brothers!

The Waiting is the Hardest Part

Psalm 52:8b" I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever. 9 I will praise you forever, O God, for what you have done. I will wait for your mercies in the presence of your people."

In a society of microwave moments, it is hard to find God's timing. In the light of eternity, even the span of our lives is only a vapor. So we pray and wait. God is not slow, He is not late, He is seldom early. He is right on perfect time.

My best place is to trust. I have great confidence in God to fulfill His promises. His love is unfailing.

So we wait. God's people expect You to continually demonstrate Your glory! Thank you for mercy!

Set Apart

Acts 26:15 "'Who are you, sir?' I asked."And the Lord replied, 'I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting. 16 Now stand up! For I have appeared to you to appoint you as my servant and my witness. You are to tell the world about this experience and about other times I will appear to you. 17 And I will protect you from both your own people and the Gentiles. Yes, I am going to send you to the Gentiles, 18 to open their eyes so they may turn from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God's people, who are set apart by faith in me."

Here in Paul's defense we get a beautiful picture of the gospel (good news). As enemies of God we deserve to be set apart for destruction. I am a gentile, who used to live in darkness and was held firm in the power of Satan. Through the message of Christ, I am now set apart for the glory of God. He opened my eyes and transferred me from the dominion of darkness into the kingdom of light! I have received forgiveness and have been given a place in the house of God. All of this confirmed by faith- trusting in Christ to keep these promises (assurance of things hoped for and the evidence of these promises even when not seen).

My prayer is that you will do the same. All of my blessings are undeserved- you can be set apart for these blessings today. It's time to turn to Jesus Christ. He is a wonderful protector and provider!

Naomi's Trail of Tears

Ruth1: 8" But on the way, Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, "Go back to your mothers' homes instead of coming with me. And may the LORD reward you for your kindness to your husbands and to me. 9 May the LORD bless you with the security of another marriage." Then she kissed them good-bye, and they all broke down and wept.
16 But Ruth replied, "Don't ask me to leave you and turn back. I will go wherever you go and live wherever you live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. 17 I will die where you die and will be buried there. May the LORD punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!" 18 So when Naomi saw that Ruth had made up her mind to go with her, she stopped urging her.

19 So the two of them continued on their journey. When they came to Bethlehem, the entire town was stirred by their arrival. "Is it really Naomi?" the women asked. 20 "Don't call me Naomi," she told them. "Instead, call me Mara, for the Almighty has made life very bitter for me. 21 I went away full, but the LORD has brought me home empty. Why should you call me Naomi when the LORD has caused me to suffer and the Almighty has sent such tragedy?""


"I am back in Bethlehem, I have heard that God's blessings still exist. It seems that it always retreats from me.
The day I left, as I stepped on the threshhold, all the memories of this land overwhelmed me. The short moments of happiness with my husband and sons are now only reminders of my pain.
I tried to send the daughters back, maybe they can recover from the mourning and grief. Ruth refused.

We all just sat there and cried.

I used to be so happy,but my soul is lifeless because of the pain. Even the warm welcome seemed useless. My friends looked at me strangely when I told them to call me bitter. Why has God made me suffer? Ruth just quietly watches me. It almost seems that she is praying. I used to believe like that. But now I know, there is no hope for me."

The Source of Sweetest Victory

Psalm 44: 3 "They did not conquer the land with their swords; it was not their own strength that gave them victory. It was by your mighty power that they succeeded; it was because you favored them and smiled on them. 4 You are my King and my God. You command victories for your people. 5 Only by your power can we push back our enemies; only in your name can we trample our foes. 6 I do not trust my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. 7 It is you who gives us victory over our enemies; it is you who humbles those who hate us. 8 O God, we give glory to you all day long and constantly praise your name."

As I coach, I'm into winning. Winning is not the most important thing, but we do keep score. I have a great opportunity into the lives of my players because they see my commitment to success. If they follow me, then I have a chance to direct them to follow the Savior.

But I hope I never forget who truly gives the victory. He loves us, protects us, and provides for us. He allows defeat to be used even as a blessing!

O God my King, command today great victories for Your church throughout the whole world!

Always Alert

The passage from Judges 18:7-10 presents a stark contrast between the outward peace and security of the people of Laish and the underlying vulnerability that comes from complacency. The Laishites, living in comfort, were unaware of the threat that was about to descend upon them. This reflection reminds us that comfort and security can often lull us into a false sense of safety, leading to spiritual and physical vulnerability.

In this story, the men of Dan saw an opportunity in the Laishites' lack of vigilance. They recognized that the people's wealth and isolation made them easy targets. The Bible's portrayal of the human heart in this scenario is raw and unflinching—covetousness, jealousy, and the desire to take what others have are ever-present dangers.

This reflection brings to light the perpetual need for discernment and the awareness that we are never completely safe from the temptations and threats that surround us. The enemy, in whatever form it may take, is always on the prowl, looking for moments when we are least prepared.

Your plea for God's protection and discernment echoes the recognition that human strength alone is insufficient to combat these dangers. Without divine intervention and guidance, we are as vulnerable as the people of Laish—living in comfort, but unknowingly on the brink of disaster.

The reflection on human nature, as represented in this passage, is a powerful reminder that vigilance is not just a physical stance but a spiritual posture. We must constantly guard our hearts and minds, staying alert to the subtle ways in which comfort can erode our defenses. In this, the Bible offers not just a diagnosis of the human condition but a call to remain steadfast in seeking God's protection and wisdom.

In expanding this reflection, consider delving into how modern-day comforts and securities can create similar vulnerabilities in our lives. How does our reliance on material wealth, technology, or social structures mirror the complacency of the Laishites? What are the signs that we, too, might be living carefree lives, unaware of the spiritual battles that rage around us? By exploring these questions, the reflection could resonate even more deeply with contemporary readers, highlighting the timelessness of the Bible's wisdom and the ever-relevant need for God's protection.

Habits of Hollow Holiness

Judges 10:6 "Again the Israelites did evil in the LORD's sight. They worshiped images of Baal and Ashtoreth, and the gods of Aram, Sidon, Moab, Ammon, and Philistia. Not only this, but they abandoned the LORD and no longer served him at all."

The Israelites are just like us. The slide is gradual. It's not like in January they serve the Lord and in March they switch to idols. Instead it is a gradual wandering. Notice the above verse- they worship and then they abandon and no longer serve at all. This indicates that for a while they try to serve both. For a while, God is there with the idols. But the idols always crowd out the Lord.

Eventually, the people of God do evil right in God's presense.

Our idols? Images (entertainment, fashion)- The gods of materialism, substance abuse, leisure, social status, political agendas, covetousness.

We serve these gods because we think they bring fortune, fame, power, and pleasure. We think they are secure and worthy of our tireless service.

Lord, help me keep good things from becoming idols. May you reign above all- including my family and football. Through Your Spirit, help me serve YOU!

Winning Edges Pt 3- Learning to Love

Matthews24:3 "Later, Jesus sat on the slopes of the Mount of Olives. His disciples came to him privately and asked, "When will all this take place? And will there be any sign ahead of time to signal your return and the end of the world?"
4 Jesus told them, "Don't let anyone mislead you. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Messiah.' They will lead many astray. 6 And wars will break out near and far, but don't panic. Yes, these things must come, but the end won't follow immediately. 7 The nations and kingdoms will proclaim war against each other, and there will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. 8 But all this will be only the beginning of the horrors to come. 9 "Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because of your allegiance to me. 10 And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. 11 And many false prophets will appear and will lead many people astray. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. 13 But those who endure to the end will be saved."

II Timothy3:1 "You should also know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control; they will be cruel and have no interest in what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act as if they are religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly."

Our biggest weakness, in my opinion, is a lack of love for one another.
Part of this is cultural- we live in selfish times where we have lost the true meaning of love. We make fun of each other, we get jealous, we love things more than people.
How do you love better? You spend time together- sweat, work, hurt, and bleed together. You learn to forgive others. I forgive all the time and need forgiveness all the time.

We keep our matters private and special within our group. Other students are your friends- your football team mates are your brothers.

You learn to pray for one another. You don’t have to showboat on the field because your brothers come over and celebrate a great play with you.

Your brothers hold you accountable to live right. You find worthwhile and fun things to do together.

Even better: you fight for a position and lose to another teammate-because you love the team and the brothers- you pull for that guy to do well. All my state championship teams has had that happen.

If you cannot seek to love these team players and coaches- please do not stay in this family. But remember Jesus’ command- ‘love one another’.

Winning Edges Pt 2- Learning to Battle

Judges 3:1 "The LORD left certain nations in the land to test those Israelites who had not participated in the wars of Canaan. 2 He did this to teach warfare to generations of Israelites who had no experience in battle.
10 The Spirit of the LORD came upon him (Othniel), and he became Israel's judge. He went to war against King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram, and the LORD gave Othniel victory over him. 11 So there was peace in the land for forty years.
27 When he arrived in the hill country of Ephraim, Ehud sounded a call to arms. Then he led a band of Israelites down from the hills. 28 "Follow me," he said, "for the LORD has given you victory over Moab your enemy." So they followed him. And the Israelites took control of the shallows of the Jordan River across from Moab, preventing anyone from crossing. 29 They attacked the Moabites and killed about ten thousand of their strongest and bravest warriors. Not one of them escaped. 30 So Moab was conquered by Israel that day, and the land was at peace for eighty years."

One thing that sets football apart from any other sport is putting on armor and going to war. It is not natural. I remember being so afraid at times playing football- but I faced my fear and became more of a man.

This life requires learning to fight. One day you may have to fight for a job, for your wife, fight against disease or a tough situation. You may have to fight for your faith. Jesus was a great fighter. He used tough words against the Pharisees, he fashioned a whip and drove out the money changers, he carried a cross up the mountain bleeding and hurting for me.

Becoming a champion means- learning to battle. Become a warrior in training!

To My Wife on Mother's Day 2005

You are the hardest working and best mom I have ever known. As much as I love my mom, you shine above and beyond.

I hope you remember why I chose you. I liked your realness- you were tough- not like those air head types that would fall apart at the drop of a hat- you knew how to work hard- you could dish it out and take it-but you also were tender- you were a person of excellence.

Those attributes have made you a great wife and a wonderful mom. You are a compassionate mom- you get teary eyed after a tough day of discipline. You are a warrior mom- you fight against all the sin all the time- I like that! You are an energetic mom- you work me in the ground with your tireless pace- I love that and admire that.

You have high standards…maybe even impossible- but I like that- you challenge us to be above ordinary.

You are a praying mom- a devoted mom- an outstanding mom

The fruit of your labor is obvious. All the diapers and dishes, all the van rides and parties, all the financial strain and sleepless nights…is all worth it

Our family is whole and solid- balanced and fun. Our children are beautiful testimonies to the power of the Christian family. I love our family- it is because of you and God’s favor!

On this special week and a special day- May the peace of Christ let you soak in some blessing.

Knowing you- you will be back fighting again on Monday!

Winning Edges Pt 1- Leadership and Followership

Judges 4:24 "And from that time on Israel became stronger and stronger against King Jabin, until they finally destroyed him.
5:1 On that day Deborah and Barak son of Abinoam sang this song: 2 "When Israel's leaders take charge, and the people gladly follow – bless the LORD!"

A friend of mine says quite frequently, "Everything rises and falls on leadership." This is a true statement. Leaders take charge. I love leaders who make decisions based on principles of virtue and stand- even if the whole world stands against them.

But also notice the value of "followership". We need to honor the God-ordained authority in our lives and follow "with glad hearts". It means that I do not need to question every motive. I follow in the peace of God.

When leaders lead and followers follow- bless the Lord. It honors God.

"How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity"- Psalm 133:1 It is like an abundance of blessings than runs above and beyond imagination. (Paraphrase 2 and 3).

This is a winning edge against the opponents in our lives.

The Fight of Faith

Judges 3:1 The LORD left certain nations in the land to test those Israelites who had not participated in the wars of Canaan. 2 He did this to teach warfare to generations of Israelites who had no experience in battle.

10 The Spirit of the LORD came upon him (Othniel), and he became Israel's judge. He went to war against King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram, and the LORD gave Othniel victory over him. 11 So there was peace in the land for forty years.

27 When he arrived in the hill country of Ephraim, Ehud sounded a call to arms. Then he led a band of Israelites down from the hills. 28 "Follow me," he said, "for the LORD has given you victory over Moab your enemy." So they followed him. And the Israelites took control of the shallows of the Jordan River across from Moab, preventing anyone from crossing. 29 They attacked the Moabites and killed about ten thousand of their strongest and bravest warriors. Not one of them escaped. 30 So Moab was conquered by Israel that day, and the land was at peace for eighty years

This will be an interesting post to see if I can land on the balance of truth. We are losing two huge skills in our land today- the ability to love and the ability to fight.

Jesus did both so well. He loved with great compassion, but He also knew how to attack sin- verbally (vs the Pharisees) and physically (turning the tables on the money changers). The crucifixion was an act of incredible fight.

Jesus predicted that in the last days that "the love of most will grow cold" and He also predicted that many would "fall away from the faith". A lack of love and a lack of a fighting spirit.

One of the things I love about football is that it teaches both at the same time. The passage in udges brings out two very interesting points. God allowed enemies to teach the Israelites how to fight. You have to be able to fight in this world of sin. The passage also points out that after great victories, the land is at peace.

Lord, teach us the right way to love and the best way to fight!

Spring Football pt 3

Practice begins a week from today and we are beginning to give out equipment. I'm not sure how many we will have out because of baseball, track, and soccer- but I do think that it will be worth it. We have such a long way to go that it is hard to not get discouraged. I feel like I am fighting a battle everyday- there are so many distractions and the kids today are very soft and selfish- all this works against the building of a team.
I'm going to stay energized and focused- and I'm praying like crazy for God's blessings.
I'll check back soon and give an update-

Father Knows Best

Job 28:"28 And this is what he says to all humanity: 'The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.'"

Fear the Lord- this does not mean a cringing or terror- but it is a deep felt reverence for Him. He could crush us in our sin if He chose to do so and we would be without complaint. He is in charge of my health,my financial status, He protects me- If He does not protect me, I am not protected- If He does not provide for me, I am not provided for. I desire to please Him (though it is a pitiful, sin ruined urge) because of the "fear" or reverence.

True Wisdom- Is a gift. It is found when we began to see life and relationships through His eyes, His wisdom is a proper perspective of priorities and attitudes. It is a discernment to understand human motives based on common human nature. It is a challenge to love God and love others.

Forsake Evil- this is a tough one. I am entangled in the evil of this world. I find myself caught up in the entertainment of our day with way too much emphasis on materialism and pleasure. I am watching TV less and reading God's word more. I am praying more and allowing God's people in His church to spur me on to good deeds. I have a long way to go.

Real Understanding..... it is really enjoying life. I have a very rich life of love and adventure.Thank you Lord!

Make My God Nice, Warm, and Furry

If the culture war and post modern deconstructionism wasn't tough enough- now evangelicalism is getting sniped from within. I'm ten years behind on this one- but open theism has just crossed my radar. It is a new slant on the old desire to explain man's freedom and God's sovereignty.

In this latest spin (endorsed by Intervarsity Press BTW), God willingly restrains himself from knowing and acting in the future based on man's actions. It is His way of dealing with our frailty. He is now "Open" for change based on our ability to lay hold of Him by faith and prayer.

I am no theologian, and I'm sure I could be taken to task in my poor characterization of this well thought out theory- but can I be honest? Do we not get afraid of characterizing a God that we completely understand? I may be wrong- but if I can explain my God, predict my God, put my God in restraints, and have no fear of Him..it is very possible that I made Him and He is no more than an idol.
I'm sorry, but the God of Creation is so far above me that I am awed by Him and most of Him is a secret mystery (Deut.29:29). He is completely sovereign and yet uses my choices- He is immutable and accepts my prayers- He is love, but will ruthlessly destroy sin- I can't explain all of that, but I trust His word on the matter.

I am so tired of human extremeism. As I peruse the world wide web, I find fundamentalists who reject all but the King James Bible and liberals who have deleted all theology to whimpers and whims.

There is truth, and it is most true when we are humbled and GOD is glorified!

Dark shadows are growing in our land- the light is dim- I'm saddened when the shades are being pulled down by those inside the church. Lord help us... please.

Gratitude for the Gift

Acts 4"18 When the others heard this, all their objections were answered and they began praising God. They said, "God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of turning from sin and receiving eternal life."

Thank you Lord for including me in the covenant of grace. I am a gentile- and I was born in sin. My family did not have a legacy of faith and I was lost. In that, You reached out to me! You had someone share the good news of salvation through Christ.

If that were the only gift You had ever given me, I would still need to praise You forever. But You do not stop there. I am overflowing with blessings!

Thank-You!

Clear Boundaries and Reasonable Requests

Scripture is a great balance for our lifestyle choices. Christians do not rely on "good deeds" to earn or deserve salvation. We see faith as a relationship instead of rituals. But as culture continues to slide into depravity, our lines of distinctiveness grow more clear. So, I am making a list of things that I believe are clear and reasonable expectations of believers.
Believers should regularly attend worship that is Christ centered and holds a high view of Scripture.
Believers should regularly study the Bible as the sole authority of faith and practice.
Believers should practice fidelity in marriage and abstain from sexual practice outside of marriage.
Believers' speech should be free from profanity.
Believers should make entertainment choices that show a commitment to glorifying God.
Believers should love,forgive, and laugh- they should enjoy life.
Believers should be hopeful not pessimistic.
Believers should be thankful and have a spirit of gratitude.
Believers should align themselves boldly with Christ and willingly share the good news.
Believers should pray without ceasing.
Believers should love children and seek to protect them.
Believers should be willing to serve others- especially the poor and needy.
I'm sure there are many others....
What do you think? Would this make a difference?

The Surest Way To Success

Joshua 1:"8 Study this Book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. 9 I command you – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

God's word is a winning edge for life. It is our guidebook. It teaches us about God and his values. It encourages us when we are down, and rebukes us in love.

We need to study it all the time and meditate, mull it over, ponder it. And we need to do this with a spirit of obedience.
I have been so encouraged this year through very hard times because of God's wonderful word.

Half Life and Fading Memories

"When Moses heard that, he fled the country and lived as a foreigner in the land of Midian, where his two sons were born. Forty years later, in the desert near Mount Sinai, an angel appeared to Moses in the flame of a burning bush. Moses saw it and wondered what it was. As he went to see, the voice of the Lord called out to him, 'I am the God of your ancestors the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses shook with terror and dared not look." Stephen's Defense in Acts

What Was It Like?

That day he walked across the desert soil as before. He scanned the horizon and listened for his sheep. As a few realitves and workers looked on him, a dirty shell of a man, did they even know that they were in the presence of the Prince of Egypt. As he leaned on his crook, there was no evidence that this man feasted in the presence of kings. After 40 years, he didn't think much of that past life anymore. He was a murderer, rejected by his people, and forsaken of God.

As an 80 year old, his life was over. He was in a twilight of existence which would end in a merciless snuff of breath and life.

And yet, the God of eternity did not waste a minute of the desert wandering. His servant Moses, who He loved, was in a training ground. He would walk on the desert soil again, the triumphant shepherd of a different flock.

Oh Lord- I want my life to count for You- there is no meaningless time!

Paths of Pain and Prosperity

Deut 30:15 "Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between prosperity and disaster, between life and death. 16 I have commanded you today to love the LORD your God and to keep his commands, laws, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and become a great nation, and the LORD your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy. 17 But if your heart turns away and you refuse to listen, and if you are drawn away to serve and worship other gods, 18 then I warn you now that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live a long, good life in the land you are crossing the Jordan to occupy. 19 "Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live! 20 Choose to love the LORD your God and to obey him and commit yourself to him, for he is your life. Then you will live long in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob."

I'm finding my reading of Deuteronomy to always be the choice. Moses seems to put before people God's promise that does not change- Choose God and live.

Someone reading this may be confused because the amount of misinformation in our culture. I saw a TV program the other night with a gay pastor- her view of scripture was twisted and manipulative. It has been done that way since the garden.

I trust the Holy Spirit to guide in the whole counsel of God. I trust in the power of God's word- I trust in Jesus. I pray you will do the same.

The God of Joy and Dread

Happy Sunday morning! It is a beautiful morning in Nashville. This is a beautiful land filled with breathtaking farmland and hardwood mountains- all in full bloom!
My Bible reading this morning was Deut 28- wow- what dreadful images. God promised great benefits to the Israelites if they fully followed Him-but incredible promises of cursing if they did not follow HIm. Many of these passages are dismissed by modern man as ancient stories to scare silly women and children. "God would never do such" they say. But I believe He can and does. He protects His glory and Holiness- that is what a God can do!

We are missing a reverence for God's wrath- and that scares me.

Oh Father, please forgive me and please forgive us. We Do not know what we do. You are a consuming fire and we treat you like a harmless match.

I praise You for the joy and praise You that Jesus has delivered Me from Your side of dread. Please protect and provide a new outpouring of Your Spirit on this land. I want us to be a shining city...not a burning Babylon.

Choose Wisely

Acts  5:38-39 - "So my advice is, leave these men alone. If they are teaching and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. But if it is of God, you will not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God."

This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of God and the futility of opposing His will. It’s a call to discernment, urging us to carefully consider the motives and origins of our actions. Are we striving on our own, or are we aligned with God’s purposes?

My prayer and hope is that God is in my fight. How do I ensure this?

1. I study the Bible because I believe it is His word. The Bible is the foundation of truth. By immersing myself in Scripture, I seek to align my thoughts, actions, and motivations with God's will. It’s through the Word that I gain clarity and direction, knowing that His truth endures.

2. I pray. Prayer is my lifeline to God. It’s in these moments of communion with Him that I lay down my worries, seek His guidance, and ask for His strength. Prayer isn’t just about asking for things; it’s about seeking His heart and aligning my desires with His.

3. I fellowship with others and learn from their counsel. God often speaks through the community of believers. I value the wisdom and insight that comes from fellowship with others. Their experiences and perspectives can sharpen my own understanding, keeping me grounded and focused on God’s will.

4. I think. God has given us minds capable of reason and reflection. I use this gift to discern and contemplate my actions. By thinking deeply about my motives and the potential outcomes, I strive to ensure that my actions are in harmony with God’s purposes.

As I have done this, I am even more convinced that the truth belongs to Jesus. In a world filled with competing voices and ideologies, it’s easy to be swayed or confused. But when I anchor myself in Christ, I find that His truth is unshakeable. It is a truth that stands the test of time, a truth that brings life and hope.

We all need to be careful—if we are against God, we will not win. This is a sobering thought. It’s not just about avoiding mistakes but about actively seeking to be on God’s side. To oppose God is to fight a losing battle, but to align with Him is to walk in victory, no matter the challenges we face.

So, my prayer is that God is in my fight, that my actions are guided by His hand, and that I walk in His truth. With God on our side, nothing can stand against us.

Spring Football Pt 2

"Acts 5:13 No one else dared to join them, though everyone had high regard for them."

Appropriate verse this morning- we had a coaching meeting last night and our numbers a dwindling- as can happen this time of year. I am beginning my second spring and I feel like that his is my most crucial year. We started with 32 rising 9th graders (now in 8th grade)- but as we get closer to spring practice- their numbers are dropping.

The number 1 reason is fear. It is the best argument for a freshman only team. Even though I would never have a rising frosh go against bigger boys in practice, and I have told them that, they still see a lot of work- possibility of that match-up and they drop out before even trying.

We will not cut them off- but I hope we keep a good % of that group.

This does allow for a little social commentary on parents. It amazes me how often I hear- "I just let him decide"- My dad did not operate that way- and now I love him for it.

Football is a very tough game- it develops tougher people- it is a great game- at our school it is a needed tool.

Lord, no matter how all this goes- I will not doubt Your goodness. Thank you for loving me.

When God Was Cursed

Deut. 21:22 "If someone has committed a crime worthy of death and is executed and then hanged on a tree, 23 the body must never remain on the tree overnight. You must bury the body that same day, for anyone hanging on a tree is cursed of God."

It has been written before that God grew the tree that formed the cruel cross of Calvary. When the Son of Man had the weight of that tree thrown on his bleeding and throbbing wounds, He felt sin to be the heavier burden. The Innocent Man, Who had never sinned, was about to die as the vilest criminal in history. "God made Him who knew no sin, to become sin, that we might become the righteousness of God."- all the blasphemy, greed, selfisness, bitternes, jealousy, sexual perversion, and wickedness weighed so heavy on His heart.

He pushed with all that his beaten body could exert. The sinews and tendons were presssed to extreme limits. Scripture says that He did this for the "joy set before Him"- the joy of receiving the redeemed as His brothers and sisters, adopted into God's family.

The pain of the nails were nothing to the pain of bearing sin. As the broken body stretched under the pull of gravity, He felt the full weight of sin.

As He hung on the tree, He became cursed of God. I will never get over hte reality that it should be me on that tree- 100 times over.

Lord Jesus...how does 'thank -you ' not sound so hollow?

Let God Be God

Deut. 12: "12 Wisdom belongs to the aged, and understanding to those who have lived many years. 13 "But true wisdom and power are with God; counsel and understanding are his. 14 What he destroys cannot be rebuilt. When he closes in on someone, there is no escape. 15 If he holds back the rain, the earth becomes a desert. If he releases the waters, they flood the earth. 16 "Yes, strength and wisdom are with him; deceivers and deceived are both in his power. 17 He leads counselors away stripped of good judgment; he drives judges to madness. 18 He removes the royal robe of kings. With ropes around their waist, they are led away. 19 He leads priests away stripped of status; he overthrows the mighty. 20 He silences the trusted adviser, and he removes the insight of the elders. 21 He pours disgrace upon princes and confiscates weapons from the strong. 22 "He floods the darkness with light; he brings light to the deepest gloom. 23 He raises up nations, and he destroys them. He makes nations expand, and he abandons them. 24 He takes away the understanding of kings, and he leaves them wandering in a wasteland without a path. 25 They grope in the darkness without a light. He makes them stagger like drunkards."

I hear complaints about God all the time. Why did He do this? Why did He not do that? Where was He when this happened? How could He be that way?

One of our problems is that we do not understand the concept- "HE IS GOD"

He can and does as He pleases and no one can stop Him. He is in a power and position that we are not. The creation has no right to complain about the creator.

The best news is that our God is good, great, and merciful. If He were evil or "human", I would be in BIG TROUBLE. So I watch the world daily with great interest.

He prospers some of my plans, He thwarts others- Some days He orchrastrates sweet moments- He ordains days of pain and defeat. But, Because He loves me- those days of pain are days of blessing.

Yesterday was a downer day- but as a drifted off to sleep I praised His name. He is God...He is MY GOD and I completely trust Him.

The Ministry of Music

As I write these blog posts- I am usually listening to Christian music on my itunes. I really like contemporary christian music and country music. I still listen to my old 80's classic rock, but there is great ministry in the songs of Stephen Curtis Chapman, Casting Crowns, Matthew West, Todd Agnew, Switchfoot, and many others.
I worry about the popular music today- more profanity, violence, and perversity than ever.
Is this just the generational friction? No different than moms hating Elvis? I don't know- I guess the Elvis resisters could predict the outrage of 50 cent.
Country music has become influenced by the "musik mafia" movement. I like the songs that value God, family, and country.
So as I now hear Todd Agnew sing "Grace Like Rain"- I'm thankful for that ministry. I'll sing in my heart to my Savior all day!

The Choice

Deut 6: 26 "Today I am giving you the choice between a blessing and a curse! 27 You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today. 28 You will receive a curse if you reject the commands of the LORD your God and turn from his way by worshiping foreign gods."

Because we live in the light of the new covenant- this choice is very clear and distinct.- What do you do with Jesus Christ? If you accept Him, trust in Him, follow Him, learn to love Him - You will be blessed. The blessings include forgiveness, answered prayer, direction of God's Spirit through His God-breathed Bible-blessed relationships, joy in living, peace, purpose, success! and many more!

Rejection of Christ is a curse. He became a curse for you as He suffered on the cross. If you reject Him, you will not survive. You will gradually be hardened to the ways of God and declare yourself to be His enemy. In effect, you are worshipping something else- which is usually yourself.

Choose Christ while He is still offered.

Spring for a Football Coach

T.S. Eliot wrote that "April is the cruelest month".I've been amazed at how busy my work is these past few months. Football is a year-long endeavor for a coach. I have been interviewing coaches for staff needs we have - Meeting with current coaches for plans about off season workouts and spring football (May 9) - writing communications to parents and players about spring and summer plans- tracking players who are scattered all over- 8th grade, track, soccer, baseball, work - etc. We try to keep tabs on them and get them in weightroom as much as possible.
I've also been meeting with youth coaches and our parents who have questions or concerns. There is a lot of misinformation that spreads so quickly. And of course I do teach.

In all the running around, God has been good to keep peace and endurance. The best help has been a daily Bible reading at crosswalk .com and a more concerted effort to pray.

If I did all of this just for income or football wins- it would be a work in vain. My desire is that my life glorifies God by demonstrating His goodness, including the awesome story of forgiveness through faith in Jesus.

Father, I need Your help in every work for success. All of these concerns about players, parents, plans I commit to You. Thank you for all Your blessings!

Love or Destruction?

"Deuteronomy 6:9 Understand, therefore, that the LORD your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand generations and constantly loves those who love him and obey his commands. 10 But he does not hesitate to punish and destroy those who hate him. 11 Therefore, obey all these commands, laws, and regulations I am giving you today."

I make a comment from time to time in this blog about a "gamble". The gamble is that person who, using their intellect as their guide, rejects God.

Now, if they are right- no problem.

But...

What if this verse is right.

It sounds like He is not going to change His mind anytime soon. Are you ready?

Another Precious Promise

Deut. 6:"1 "These are all the commands, laws, and regulations that the LORD your God told me to teach you so you may obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy, 2 and so you and your children and grandchildren might fear the LORD your God as long as you live. If you obey all his laws and commands, you will enjoy a long life. 3 Listen closely, Israel, to everything I say. Be careful to obey. Then all will go well with you, and you will have many children in the land flowing with milk and honey, just as the LORD, the God of your ancestors, promised you."

I would love to have a long life-I would love for things to go well with me-I would love to have children in a land flowing with milk and honey.

This is just a small speck of the promises of God.

My part is to be obedient to Him- fear Him. Obedience means to revere His Son- trust in Him- I desire to obey Him out of love- I am always short- but He is always faithful.

Father- I need to know You more- I need to take my desire to obey more faithfully- we both know the many areas I am short- I claim Your promises and know that You are powerful to fulfill. I need forgiveness and by faith proclaim it in Jesus.

Cultural Trends

One change that I have noticed over the years is a decline in the area of parent/ teacher/coach relations. I know I am over generalizing and stereotyping, but I do see a disturbing trend.

1) Rapid networking of disinformation and gossip- I am amazed at how many incorrect stories and opinions get tossed around. A lot of times, even good parents create perspectives based solely on the reporting of their teenager.
2) Improper voicing of opinions and criticism- There are a number of vocal parents who do not shy away from making public statements regarding teachers or coaches even in front of students.
3) General intolerance of mistakes- in a society who has adopted tolerance as a main virtue, it is surprising how much of our culture has lost mercy and forgiveness.
4) General feelings of discontentment- there seems to be more alarmist and negative attitudes interpreting situations
5) General lack of trust of authority figures- our culture is not willing to accept the opinion of a qualified expert in their field of knowledge.

We do have some great parents at our school- but if this continues- we will find it harder to work with young people.

The Power of the Protector and Provider

Job 5: "6 But evil does not spring from the soil, and trouble does not sprout from the earth. 7 People are born for trouble as predictably as sparks fly upward from a fire. 8 "My advice to you is this: Go to God and present your case to him. 9 For he does great works too marvelous to understand. He performs miracles without number. 10 He gives rain for the earth. He sends water for the fields. 11 He gives prosperity to the poor and humble, and he takes sufferers to safety. 12 He frustrates the plans of the crafty, so their efforts will not succeed. 13 He catches those who think they are wise in their own cleverness, so that their cunning schemes are thwarted. 14 They grope in the daylight as though they were blind; they see no better in the daytime than at night. 15 He rescues the poor from the cutting words of the strong. He saves them from the clutches of the powerful. 16 And so at last the poor have hope, and the fangs of the wicked are broken."

Once again- the person reading this has made a choice- God is there or He is not. If you believe He is not there, then you see my faith as foolish and simple. You see all of this as either randon chance or product of aliens. How do you explain evil? Do you believe it exists? How do you handle struggles? Is there hope?

Go and present your case to God.

As I read the above passage, I am filled with admiration for my Father. I am humbled that He cares for me. He provides for me- He protects me. If He is not in your life- You are not protected, nor provided for.

But you can be adopted by HIm today- cry out to HIm. He has provided a greatway to Him. It is a person, and His name is Jesus.