Howdy folks,
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it (1 Corinthians 9:24).”
In the Bible an athletic contest is often used as an illustration for the Christian life. Most often it is portrayed as race. Runners train with self-discipline so that they can compete with staying power. Likewise, cowboys and cowgirls, who compete in rodeo rough stock and timed events, train hard to be the best in their sport. No matter the personal sacrifice or physical pain that must be overcome, their goal is to have the best time, or ride to the whistle and, in so doing, win the coveted prize for their event.
Once on the trail, you’ll need the same self-discipline to continue growing spiritually and living victoriously. You must be willing to chuck everything that will trip you up. Hebrews 12:1 says, “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run, with endurance the race that is set before us.” Remember, that you make it to the short-go, not by how well you perform, but by how well you let Christ perform through you. 2 Timothy 4:7 says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
For the faithful servant, there’s a trophy buckle when you finish the work God has called you to do. Philippians 3:14 says, “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Just as every successful athlete keeps looking toward the goal, so you must keep looking to Jesus. The real test of the Christian life as in an athletic contest is steady progress, not spasms of effort or emotion, toward the goal to win the prize.
O I want to be like Jesus
As I walk along this pilgrim way;
O I want to live like Jesus,
Showing forth His beauty ev’ry day.
This my prayer and deepest longing ---
To be pure without, within;
O I want to be like Jesus,
Cleansed from dross and free from self and sin. ---Peterson
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
YOUR SIDEKICK
Howdy folks;
“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God (1 Corinthians 2:12).”
One of the most serious problems facing the plains pioneer was that of obtaining an adequate supply of water. Without such a supply, he couldn’t exist. Those who lived in the valleys along streams were fortunate as they could get water from springs or from the streams themselves. The mechanical windmill, therefore, was crucial to settling the West. They permitted ranchers and farmers to bring water up from deep below the surface and, thereby, live and work on land where there was no reliable water supply.
By using the wind power readily available to them, ranchers and farmers were able to get the water they needed. By using the power of the Holy Spirit available to us as Christians we have the ability to live as we should and as God intended. One of the most profound and noteworthy promises Jesus made during His earthly ministry was His promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit. Before He left them, Jesus promised His disciples that God would send the Holy Spirit to guide them in their lives. John 14:26 says, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things I have said.” His last commandment was for them to wait in Jerusalem until that promise was fulfilled. Acts 2:1-4 is the account of the disciples receiving the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Since that day, when people believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and are saved, they receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who will be their sidekick forever.
When you are saved, the Holy Spirit lives within you and gives you a “new nature,” which is the nature of God. This new nature helps you to understand spiritual things because the Holy Spirit is riding with you. Knowing this should be of great comfort. God is always with you and no matter what comes your way you’ll know that God, working through the Holy Spirit, will guide you through it.
Holy Spirit, faithful Guide,
Ever near the Christian’s side,
Gently lead us by the hand,
Pilgrims in a desert land;
Weary souls fore’er rejoice,
While they hear that sweetest voice
Whispering softly, “Wand’rer come!
Follow Me, I’ll guide you home.” ---Wells
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God (1 Corinthians 2:12).”
One of the most serious problems facing the plains pioneer was that of obtaining an adequate supply of water. Without such a supply, he couldn’t exist. Those who lived in the valleys along streams were fortunate as they could get water from springs or from the streams themselves. The mechanical windmill, therefore, was crucial to settling the West. They permitted ranchers and farmers to bring water up from deep below the surface and, thereby, live and work on land where there was no reliable water supply.
By using the wind power readily available to them, ranchers and farmers were able to get the water they needed. By using the power of the Holy Spirit available to us as Christians we have the ability to live as we should and as God intended. One of the most profound and noteworthy promises Jesus made during His earthly ministry was His promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit. Before He left them, Jesus promised His disciples that God would send the Holy Spirit to guide them in their lives. John 14:26 says, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things I have said.” His last commandment was for them to wait in Jerusalem until that promise was fulfilled. Acts 2:1-4 is the account of the disciples receiving the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Since that day, when people believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and are saved, they receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who will be their sidekick forever.
When you are saved, the Holy Spirit lives within you and gives you a “new nature,” which is the nature of God. This new nature helps you to understand spiritual things because the Holy Spirit is riding with you. Knowing this should be of great comfort. God is always with you and no matter what comes your way you’ll know that God, working through the Holy Spirit, will guide you through it.
Holy Spirit, faithful Guide,
Ever near the Christian’s side,
Gently lead us by the hand,
Pilgrims in a desert land;
Weary souls fore’er rejoice,
While they hear that sweetest voice
Whispering softly, “Wand’rer come!
Follow Me, I’ll guide you home.” ---Wells
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
Monday, June 6, 2011
THE LEAST OF THESE
Howdy folks,
And the King will answer and say to them, “Assuredly, I say to you inasmuch as you did it to one the least of these My brethren you did it to Me (Matthew 25:40).”
Over the years, as a cowboy gospel ministry, we’ve been asked to minister in many non-traditional venues (barns, rodeo grounds, saloon patios, dance halls, outdoor stages, hotels, etc.); however, our audiences have usually been folks who love the western way of life and enjoy our cowboy style of ministry. Consequently, we expected to find a friendly and receptive audience wherever we were asked to minister.
All that changed several years ago. Our last stop on the Songs of Faith Ministries tour was supposed to be at a church in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It so happened, however, that the pastor had double booked on that particular Sunday morning and he asked if we would mind taking the service at the Union Gospel Mission in downtown Winnipeg. I still remember his words: “There’s about 120 homeless people who attend the service and they will love your cowboy gospel music.” After agreeing to his request, I realized that this was going to be out of our comfort zone and began to worry about our safety and how are ministry would really be received,
When we arrived at the Mission on Sunday morning, we found it was exactly as the pastor had described. As I looked around, I could see the despair on their faces that comes from living on the street. In spite of my original misgivings, the Lord really blessed our ministry. From their smiles as they sang along, you could see that the old hymns and gospel songs touched many hearts.
I learned a valuable lesson that morning. We can’t always expect to minister in our comfort zone. When you tell God you’ll preach His Word, you don’t get to choose the place or the audience, He does! I’m reminded of Jesus’ words: “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick (Matthew 9:12).”
So send I you to blind the bruised and broken,
O’er wand’ring souls to work, to weep, to wake.
To bear the burdens of a world aweary
So send I you to suffer for My sake. ---Clarkson
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
And the King will answer and say to them, “Assuredly, I say to you inasmuch as you did it to one the least of these My brethren you did it to Me (Matthew 25:40).”
Over the years, as a cowboy gospel ministry, we’ve been asked to minister in many non-traditional venues (barns, rodeo grounds, saloon patios, dance halls, outdoor stages, hotels, etc.); however, our audiences have usually been folks who love the western way of life and enjoy our cowboy style of ministry. Consequently, we expected to find a friendly and receptive audience wherever we were asked to minister.
All that changed several years ago. Our last stop on the Songs of Faith Ministries tour was supposed to be at a church in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It so happened, however, that the pastor had double booked on that particular Sunday morning and he asked if we would mind taking the service at the Union Gospel Mission in downtown Winnipeg. I still remember his words: “There’s about 120 homeless people who attend the service and they will love your cowboy gospel music.” After agreeing to his request, I realized that this was going to be out of our comfort zone and began to worry about our safety and how are ministry would really be received,
When we arrived at the Mission on Sunday morning, we found it was exactly as the pastor had described. As I looked around, I could see the despair on their faces that comes from living on the street. In spite of my original misgivings, the Lord really blessed our ministry. From their smiles as they sang along, you could see that the old hymns and gospel songs touched many hearts.
I learned a valuable lesson that morning. We can’t always expect to minister in our comfort zone. When you tell God you’ll preach His Word, you don’t get to choose the place or the audience, He does! I’m reminded of Jesus’ words: “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick (Matthew 9:12).”
So send I you to blind the bruised and broken,
O’er wand’ring souls to work, to weep, to wake.
To bear the burdens of a world aweary
So send I you to suffer for My sake. ---Clarkson
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, May 28, 2011
UP THE TRAIL
Howdy folks,
The moment you trusted Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, you started up the trail on lifelong spiritual journey. When you ride for the brand, God directs your life. With each new trail day, God will build upon the work of the past with a view toward work in the future. As you go up the trail, He will not lead you down a blind trail or have you follow a cold trail. You can be sure He has an orderly plan in place and a divine purpose in mind for your life. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).” Spiritual growth does not just happen. It develops as God matures you in your relationship with Him.
The process of growing spiritually, often referred to in the Bible as walking with God, occurs one step at a time. Colossians 2:6 says, “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” God has not promised you that your trail days will be easy; rather, that He will be with you each step of the way. Psalm 23:4 says, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me: Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” What a comfort to know that God will always stand by His trail hands.
As you go up the trail, you will leave trail markers along your back-trail. These are milestones or benchmarks in your Christian experience that will let you see how God has been faithfully working in your life. Over time, a review of these trail markers will serve to confirm His on-going presence, as well as how He has guided you. Take a-hold of what you have been taught. “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our guide (2 Thessalonians 2:15).” They will also be a ready source of comfort and encouragement as you put into practice the spiritual truths you have learned. Every trail marker on your back-trail is a testimonial to your growth in understanding God’s ways and to your trust in Him. As you go up the trail, you can be sure that God will lead you step by step. He has many truths for you to discover and you have a lot more growing to do.
More like the Master I would live and grow;
More of His love to others I would show;
More self-denial, like His in Galilee,
More like the Master I long to ever be. ---Gabriel
The moment you trusted Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, you started up the trail on lifelong spiritual journey. When you ride for the brand, God directs your life. With each new trail day, God will build upon the work of the past with a view toward work in the future. As you go up the trail, He will not lead you down a blind trail or have you follow a cold trail. You can be sure He has an orderly plan in place and a divine purpose in mind for your life. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).” Spiritual growth does not just happen. It develops as God matures you in your relationship with Him.
The process of growing spiritually, often referred to in the Bible as walking with God, occurs one step at a time. Colossians 2:6 says, “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” God has not promised you that your trail days will be easy; rather, that He will be with you each step of the way. Psalm 23:4 says, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me: Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” What a comfort to know that God will always stand by His trail hands.
As you go up the trail, you will leave trail markers along your back-trail. These are milestones or benchmarks in your Christian experience that will let you see how God has been faithfully working in your life. Over time, a review of these trail markers will serve to confirm His on-going presence, as well as how He has guided you. Take a-hold of what you have been taught. “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our guide (2 Thessalonians 2:15).” They will also be a ready source of comfort and encouragement as you put into practice the spiritual truths you have learned. Every trail marker on your back-trail is a testimonial to your growth in understanding God’s ways and to your trust in Him. As you go up the trail, you can be sure that God will lead you step by step. He has many truths for you to discover and you have a lot more growing to do.
More like the Master I would live and grow;
More of His love to others I would show;
More self-denial, like His in Galilee,
More like the Master I long to ever be. ---Gabriel
Saturday, May 21, 2011
DELIVER THE MESSAGE
Howdy Folks,
George Sweeting, in his book The No-Guilt Guide for Witnessing, tells of a man by the name of John Currier who in 1949 was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison. Later he was transferred and paroled to work on a farm near Nashville, Tennessee. In 1968, Currier’s sentence was terminated and a letter bearing the good news was sent to him. But John never saw the letter, nor was he told anything about it. Ten years went by. Then a state parole officer learned about Currier’s plight, found him, and told him that his sentence had been terminated. He had been a free man all those years.
How would you feel if, like John Currier, someone sent you an important message and year after year is was never delivered? For those of us who have heard the good news and experienced freedom through Christ, the story of John Currier is a reminder of our responsibility to share the love and forgiveness Jesus has given us with those who have never received Him as their Savior and Lord. Romans 10:13-14 says, “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? Lost men, women and children are waiting for someone to tell them the most important message they will ever hear in their life and the message is never delivered.
Are we doing all we can to make sure that people get the message? Mark 16:15 says, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” As you remember what life was like for you without Christ, the love of Jesus Christ for you, and your love for Him, should compel you to share Him with others. Ask yourself, “If everybody did as much as I am doing to reach the lost, how many people would be coming to know Christ?” This is a hard question, but each of us must evaluate what we are doing to reach the world for Christ. If you really believe that unless a person has a born again, personal relationship with Christ, they are on the way to hell, there is an urgency about delivering the message.
We have heard the joyful sound; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to every land, Climb the steeps and cross the waves;
Onward! – ‘tis our Lord’s command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves! ---Owens
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
George Sweeting, in his book The No-Guilt Guide for Witnessing, tells of a man by the name of John Currier who in 1949 was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison. Later he was transferred and paroled to work on a farm near Nashville, Tennessee. In 1968, Currier’s sentence was terminated and a letter bearing the good news was sent to him. But John never saw the letter, nor was he told anything about it. Ten years went by. Then a state parole officer learned about Currier’s plight, found him, and told him that his sentence had been terminated. He had been a free man all those years.
How would you feel if, like John Currier, someone sent you an important message and year after year is was never delivered? For those of us who have heard the good news and experienced freedom through Christ, the story of John Currier is a reminder of our responsibility to share the love and forgiveness Jesus has given us with those who have never received Him as their Savior and Lord. Romans 10:13-14 says, “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? Lost men, women and children are waiting for someone to tell them the most important message they will ever hear in their life and the message is never delivered.
Are we doing all we can to make sure that people get the message? Mark 16:15 says, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” As you remember what life was like for you without Christ, the love of Jesus Christ for you, and your love for Him, should compel you to share Him with others. Ask yourself, “If everybody did as much as I am doing to reach the lost, how many people would be coming to know Christ?” This is a hard question, but each of us must evaluate what we are doing to reach the world for Christ. If you really believe that unless a person has a born again, personal relationship with Christ, they are on the way to hell, there is an urgency about delivering the message.
We have heard the joyful sound; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to every land, Climb the steeps and cross the waves;
Onward! – ‘tis our Lord’s command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves! ---Owens
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
Friday, May 13, 2011
GET TUIT
Howdy Folks,
The other day I decided to clean out my desk drawer. Actually, my wife told me it was time to get rid of some of my junk. When I opened the drawer, I found the usual collection of pens, pencils and paper clips, along with a few elastic bands, and colored push pins. My desk drawer is also the repository for all the treasures that I have collected during our ministry tours -- church bulletins, programs from cowboy poetry gatherings, business cards and a variety of lapel pins. Among this collection of memorabilia was a small wooden disc that had TUIT printed on the face side. The message was clear. Just like cleaning out a desk drawer, nothing will get done unless we get “to it!” The writer of Hebrews puts it this way, “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run, with endurance the race that is set before us.”
Many Christians, however, find it easier or, perhaps, more comfortable to procrastinate when it comes to getting TUIT. We drag our feet when it comes to reading and studying the Bible, talking to God, sharing our faith with a neighbor or friend, teaching Sunday school, helping with vacation Bible school, or leading a small group. It’s not that we don’t want to do these things or feel they are important; it’s just that we never seem to get TUIT. The Gospel of Matthew records that when Jesus encountered Peter and Andrew by the Sea of Galilee, they were busy fishing. But, when He said to them, “Follow Me,” the Bible says, “They immediately left their nets and followed Him (4:20).” Likewise, the brothers James and John, who were busy mending their nets, immediately left their boat and their father to follow Him (4:22). Folks, they just got TUIT!
Over the years, it has been my observation that you can always count on a dedicated few when it comes to doing Kingdom work. No matter their age, experience, or circumstance they are ready to answer the call to serve. What about you? Are you ready to get TUIT? You can’t be a spectator ridin’ the fence and watchin’ others ride broncs in the main corral.
To the work! To the work! Let the hungry be fed;
To the fountain of life let the weary be led;
In the cross and its banner our glory shall be,
While we herald the tidings, “Salvation is free!” ---Crosby
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
The other day I decided to clean out my desk drawer. Actually, my wife told me it was time to get rid of some of my junk. When I opened the drawer, I found the usual collection of pens, pencils and paper clips, along with a few elastic bands, and colored push pins. My desk drawer is also the repository for all the treasures that I have collected during our ministry tours -- church bulletins, programs from cowboy poetry gatherings, business cards and a variety of lapel pins. Among this collection of memorabilia was a small wooden disc that had TUIT printed on the face side. The message was clear. Just like cleaning out a desk drawer, nothing will get done unless we get “to it!” The writer of Hebrews puts it this way, “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run, with endurance the race that is set before us.”
Many Christians, however, find it easier or, perhaps, more comfortable to procrastinate when it comes to getting TUIT. We drag our feet when it comes to reading and studying the Bible, talking to God, sharing our faith with a neighbor or friend, teaching Sunday school, helping with vacation Bible school, or leading a small group. It’s not that we don’t want to do these things or feel they are important; it’s just that we never seem to get TUIT. The Gospel of Matthew records that when Jesus encountered Peter and Andrew by the Sea of Galilee, they were busy fishing. But, when He said to them, “Follow Me,” the Bible says, “They immediately left their nets and followed Him (4:20).” Likewise, the brothers James and John, who were busy mending their nets, immediately left their boat and their father to follow Him (4:22). Folks, they just got TUIT!
Over the years, it has been my observation that you can always count on a dedicated few when it comes to doing Kingdom work. No matter their age, experience, or circumstance they are ready to answer the call to serve. What about you? Are you ready to get TUIT? You can’t be a spectator ridin’ the fence and watchin’ others ride broncs in the main corral.
To the work! To the work! Let the hungry be fed;
To the fountain of life let the weary be led;
In the cross and its banner our glory shall be,
While we herald the tidings, “Salvation is free!” ---Crosby
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, May 7, 2011
MR. FACING-BOTH-WAYS
Howdy Folks,
In his famous Christian allegory The Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan provides a riveting account of Christian’s pilgrimage from earth to heaven. Now, if you’ve ever read The Pilgrim’s Progress, you may remember being introduced to Mr. Facing-Both-Ways who attempts the difficult task of facing in both directions at the same time. Many Christians, like Mr. Facing-Both-Ways, have set themselves an impossible task. They want some of Christ and some of the world. They are trying to face both ways.
Let me elaborate further. George Barna, a Christian researcher in the U.S., has identified a significant group of individuals in Evangelical churches today that he labeled “notional Christians.” According to Barna, at least 39% of the church population may fall into this category. While these individuals may in fact be saved, their own ideas and opinions and not the Word of God shape their Christian experience. They want Christ in their life but are not willing to live in obedience to Him. They want to face both ways.
Folks, I believe Jesus admonished believers against this destructive behavior. In Luke 6:46 He says, “But why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and not do the things which I say?” It raises the question: “Can you follow Him and not do the things He says?” The question is equivalent to a positive declaration In other words; you cannot call me Lord if you do not do the things I say. Such words as these make it very clear that Jesus intended to be taken seriously. His words continue to echo through the ages to all those who claim to be His true followers. There is going to be a sad day of disillusionment for those Christians who make a glib profession of His Name. Profession of faith is one thing but what identifies a true follower of Jesus is really doing the will of God. As James cautions believers, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only deceiving yourself (James 1:22).” We need to continue doing what Jesus says over and over again, until it becomes our everyday practice. This is the only way we will become more consistent, confident, and competent as a Christian.
O Jesus, Thou hast promised to all who follow Thee,
That where Thou art in glory, there shall Thy servant be;
And, Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end;
O give me grace to follow, my Master and my Friend. ---Bode
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
In his famous Christian allegory The Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan provides a riveting account of Christian’s pilgrimage from earth to heaven. Now, if you’ve ever read The Pilgrim’s Progress, you may remember being introduced to Mr. Facing-Both-Ways who attempts the difficult task of facing in both directions at the same time. Many Christians, like Mr. Facing-Both-Ways, have set themselves an impossible task. They want some of Christ and some of the world. They are trying to face both ways.
Let me elaborate further. George Barna, a Christian researcher in the U.S., has identified a significant group of individuals in Evangelical churches today that he labeled “notional Christians.” According to Barna, at least 39% of the church population may fall into this category. While these individuals may in fact be saved, their own ideas and opinions and not the Word of God shape their Christian experience. They want Christ in their life but are not willing to live in obedience to Him. They want to face both ways.
Folks, I believe Jesus admonished believers against this destructive behavior. In Luke 6:46 He says, “But why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and not do the things which I say?” It raises the question: “Can you follow Him and not do the things He says?” The question is equivalent to a positive declaration In other words; you cannot call me Lord if you do not do the things I say. Such words as these make it very clear that Jesus intended to be taken seriously. His words continue to echo through the ages to all those who claim to be His true followers. There is going to be a sad day of disillusionment for those Christians who make a glib profession of His Name. Profession of faith is one thing but what identifies a true follower of Jesus is really doing the will of God. As James cautions believers, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only deceiving yourself (James 1:22).” We need to continue doing what Jesus says over and over again, until it becomes our everyday practice. This is the only way we will become more consistent, confident, and competent as a Christian.
O Jesus, Thou hast promised to all who follow Thee,
That where Thou art in glory, there shall Thy servant be;
And, Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end;
O give me grace to follow, my Master and my Friend. ---Bode
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, April 30, 2011
AN ENDANGERED SPECIES
Howdy folks,
Right off the top let me tell you that I’m old-fashioned! I still read and carry my King James Version of the Bible, listen to and sing the old hymns, and enjoy an old-fashioned, no frills gospel sermon. As a preacher, I have long been fascinated with the style and sermons of the preachers of yesterday. Because they used vivid descriptions of judgment and eternal damnation to encourage repentance, they were often called “fire and brimstone preachers.” Perhaps the best known of these preachers was Jonathan Edwards, who preached during the Great Awakening of the 1730’s and 40’s. It is reported that on one occasion after he preached his sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” audience members burst out weeping, cried in anguish or even fainted.
Folks, Peter would have been called a fire and brimstone preacher. On the day of Pentecost, He delivered a powerful message to the people who were drawn to the Temple by all the commotion. Cut to the heart by Peter’s message that Jesus whom they crucified was both Lord and Christ, some 3,000 people turned to the Lord (Acts 2:41). Again Peter preached to a crowd who had gathered to witness a healed cripple walking, leaping, and praising God. In response to his message that God had sent Jesus to save them from their sins, about 5,000 who heard his words believed (Acts 4:4).
How different is that from today? For the most part, “fire and brimstone preachers” are an endangered species. After the sermon people politely arise from their padded pews, exchange some pleasantries with their friends and, compliment their preacher for the beautiful uplifting lesson that he has so eloquently delivered. Paul exhorts the young preacher Timothy to preach the Word! “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside by fables (2 Timothy 4:3-4).” An old-fashioned, no-frills Gospel sermon that accurately reflects the Word of God is more powerful by far than any sermon intended to advance our thinking or lead us to new truth. So I’m gonna stay old-fashioned.
Twas an old-fashioned meeting in an old-fashioned place,
Where some old-fashioned people had some old-fashioned grace;
As an old-fashioned sinner I began to pray,
And God heard me and saved me in the old-fashioned way. ---Buffum
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Right off the top let me tell you that I’m old-fashioned! I still read and carry my King James Version of the Bible, listen to and sing the old hymns, and enjoy an old-fashioned, no frills gospel sermon. As a preacher, I have long been fascinated with the style and sermons of the preachers of yesterday. Because they used vivid descriptions of judgment and eternal damnation to encourage repentance, they were often called “fire and brimstone preachers.” Perhaps the best known of these preachers was Jonathan Edwards, who preached during the Great Awakening of the 1730’s and 40’s. It is reported that on one occasion after he preached his sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” audience members burst out weeping, cried in anguish or even fainted.
Folks, Peter would have been called a fire and brimstone preacher. On the day of Pentecost, He delivered a powerful message to the people who were drawn to the Temple by all the commotion. Cut to the heart by Peter’s message that Jesus whom they crucified was both Lord and Christ, some 3,000 people turned to the Lord (Acts 2:41). Again Peter preached to a crowd who had gathered to witness a healed cripple walking, leaping, and praising God. In response to his message that God had sent Jesus to save them from their sins, about 5,000 who heard his words believed (Acts 4:4).
How different is that from today? For the most part, “fire and brimstone preachers” are an endangered species. After the sermon people politely arise from their padded pews, exchange some pleasantries with their friends and, compliment their preacher for the beautiful uplifting lesson that he has so eloquently delivered. Paul exhorts the young preacher Timothy to preach the Word! “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside by fables (2 Timothy 4:3-4).” An old-fashioned, no-frills Gospel sermon that accurately reflects the Word of God is more powerful by far than any sermon intended to advance our thinking or lead us to new truth. So I’m gonna stay old-fashioned.
Twas an old-fashioned meeting in an old-fashioned place,
Where some old-fashioned people had some old-fashioned grace;
As an old-fashioned sinner I began to pray,
And God heard me and saved me in the old-fashioned way. ---Buffum
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, April 23, 2011
THE REJECTED CORNERSTONE
Howdy folks,
In ancient times, the cornerstone referred to the foundation stone, the first placed, which was secure and set the angles for the rest of the building. It was the visible corner of the foundation of the building and the starting point of all future building above the foundation. It was also the largest and most costly stone because of its beauty and strength, as well as the most solid and carefully constructed stone. The cornerstone was the place where the building was joined and also supported the major portion of the superstructure. To cast aside the cornerstone would be to resist any future building on that foundation.
The metaphor of a cornerstone as a foundation is found in Isaiah 28:16 in reference to the person and work of the Messianic Redeemer: “Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation.” In the New Testament, Peter uses the metaphor of the cornerstone to refer to Jesus. In 1 Peter 2:7 we read, “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.” Given the context in which this verse is found, I believe Peter was elaborating on Jesus as the foundation upon which God has promised to build the church. “For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Christ Jesus (1 Corinthians 3:11).” By comparing believers to “living stones” and placing them in relationship to the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:5), Peter has completed the metaphor. First, we rest on Christ as a building rests on its foundation. Second, we relate to every other believer as the stones of a building under construction relate to one another. The meaning is clear we need each other, should support each other, and must work together to build the church in the world.
However, there is another contemporary lesson to be learned. Like the cornerstone that was rejected by the builders, many will not repent of their sins and accept the complete lordship of Jesus Christ in their lives. What they fail to realize is that this offer is the only choice they have that will give them genuine salvation from their sins. Rejection of Jesus Christ does not make us free from God’s judgment and punishment. As surely as those who choose God will receive eternal life, so those who reject Him will be judged to destruction. Both are guaranteed to receive the consequences of their choices.
The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord;
She is His new creation by water and the word:
From Heav’n He came and sought her to be His holy bride;
With His own blood He bought her, and for her life He died. ----Stone
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
In ancient times, the cornerstone referred to the foundation stone, the first placed, which was secure and set the angles for the rest of the building. It was the visible corner of the foundation of the building and the starting point of all future building above the foundation. It was also the largest and most costly stone because of its beauty and strength, as well as the most solid and carefully constructed stone. The cornerstone was the place where the building was joined and also supported the major portion of the superstructure. To cast aside the cornerstone would be to resist any future building on that foundation.
The metaphor of a cornerstone as a foundation is found in Isaiah 28:16 in reference to the person and work of the Messianic Redeemer: “Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation.” In the New Testament, Peter uses the metaphor of the cornerstone to refer to Jesus. In 1 Peter 2:7 we read, “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.” Given the context in which this verse is found, I believe Peter was elaborating on Jesus as the foundation upon which God has promised to build the church. “For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Christ Jesus (1 Corinthians 3:11).” By comparing believers to “living stones” and placing them in relationship to the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:5), Peter has completed the metaphor. First, we rest on Christ as a building rests on its foundation. Second, we relate to every other believer as the stones of a building under construction relate to one another. The meaning is clear we need each other, should support each other, and must work together to build the church in the world.
However, there is another contemporary lesson to be learned. Like the cornerstone that was rejected by the builders, many will not repent of their sins and accept the complete lordship of Jesus Christ in their lives. What they fail to realize is that this offer is the only choice they have that will give them genuine salvation from their sins. Rejection of Jesus Christ does not make us free from God’s judgment and punishment. As surely as those who choose God will receive eternal life, so those who reject Him will be judged to destruction. Both are guaranteed to receive the consequences of their choices.
The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord;
She is His new creation by water and the word:
From Heav’n He came and sought her to be His holy bride;
With His own blood He bought her, and for her life He died. ----Stone
On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, April 16, 2011
THE GOOD NEWS OF DELIVERANCE
Howdy folks,
“Prophecy is a very difficult art,” said Niels Bohr, the physicist, “especially when it involves the future.” Consider the following classic prophetic statements: an official of the White Star Line, speaking of the firm’s newly built flagship, the Titanic, launched in 1912, declared the ship was unsinkable; then there was Thomas J. Watson, Chairman of the Board of IBM who said in 1943: “I think there is a world market for about five computers;” and, finally, my personal favorite was a recording company expert who said in 1962: “We don’t think the Beatles will do anything in the market. Guitar groups are on their way out.”
When considering Bible prophecy, however, we need to understand that it isn’t like God looking into a crystal ball and writing down what He thinks will happen. It is all about God having a definite plan at the beginning, and bringing about events that will take place throughout time that will eventually bring His purpose to pass. The underlying message of Bible prophecy, therefore, is that God is in charge of history and that it moves to His end from the beginning.
The prophet Isaiah, approximately three thousand years ago, prophesied that the Man of sorrow would be wounded and dies for our sins that we might be saved from the wrath to come (Isaiah chapter 53). About one thousand years after Isaiah’s prophecy, an angel messenger appeared to a young virgin and declared she would have a Son and would call His name Jesus (Luke 1:31), which means “Jehovah our Savior.” This name reminds us of the purpose of His birth. He was the Man of sorrow who “bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness --- by whose stripes you were healed (1 Peter 2:24).” Thus, in fulfillment of His eternal plan, a loving Father sent his Son into the world to save us from our sins (John 3:17).
So you see, the birth and death of Jesus was not an afterthought. God had announced His plan and purpose beforehand. The good news of deliverance is that Jesus has ransomed us from the penalty of our sins. When you received Christ as your personal Savior you began an eternal relationship with God that will last throughout eternity.
“Man of sorrow,” what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! What a Savior. ----Bliss
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
“Prophecy is a very difficult art,” said Niels Bohr, the physicist, “especially when it involves the future.” Consider the following classic prophetic statements: an official of the White Star Line, speaking of the firm’s newly built flagship, the Titanic, launched in 1912, declared the ship was unsinkable; then there was Thomas J. Watson, Chairman of the Board of IBM who said in 1943: “I think there is a world market for about five computers;” and, finally, my personal favorite was a recording company expert who said in 1962: “We don’t think the Beatles will do anything in the market. Guitar groups are on their way out.”
When considering Bible prophecy, however, we need to understand that it isn’t like God looking into a crystal ball and writing down what He thinks will happen. It is all about God having a definite plan at the beginning, and bringing about events that will take place throughout time that will eventually bring His purpose to pass. The underlying message of Bible prophecy, therefore, is that God is in charge of history and that it moves to His end from the beginning.
The prophet Isaiah, approximately three thousand years ago, prophesied that the Man of sorrow would be wounded and dies for our sins that we might be saved from the wrath to come (Isaiah chapter 53). About one thousand years after Isaiah’s prophecy, an angel messenger appeared to a young virgin and declared she would have a Son and would call His name Jesus (Luke 1:31), which means “Jehovah our Savior.” This name reminds us of the purpose of His birth. He was the Man of sorrow who “bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness --- by whose stripes you were healed (1 Peter 2:24).” Thus, in fulfillment of His eternal plan, a loving Father sent his Son into the world to save us from our sins (John 3:17).
So you see, the birth and death of Jesus was not an afterthought. God had announced His plan and purpose beforehand. The good news of deliverance is that Jesus has ransomed us from the penalty of our sins. When you received Christ as your personal Savior you began an eternal relationship with God that will last throughout eternity.
“Man of sorrow,” what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! What a Savior. ----Bliss
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, April 9, 2011
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR JESUS LATELY?
Howdy Folks,
Easter is a time of reflection, when Christians worldwide focus on the finished work of Jesus on the Cross. I can only imagine the Savior bearing the burden of our sins in His own body as He hung on the cross (1 Peter 2:24) or, the crowds passing by that blasphemed Him. But, on that fateful day that Jesus was crucified, there were people who ministered to Him, who helped Him when the entire world had turned against Him.
Do you remember the man called Simon of Cyrene who carried the cross for Him? I know he was forced to do it, but when he saw the blood stained figure of Jesus, don’t you think that some pity stirred in his heart? When Jesus fell beneath the load, Simon carried the cross for Him. Then there was the Roman soldier who moistened Jesus lips when He moaned; “I thirst.” Think of the day of the crucifixion: the heat, the noise, the dust, the pain and, the thirst. Here was an act of pity in the midst of hate.
There was also a small group of His dear ones and friends who stood near the cross. His mother, John, and other holy women who had followed Jesus from Galilee stood by while He was dying. Crucifixion was a very shameful thing. To see Jesus hung on a cross, naked, in the gaze of multitudes of people who passed by must have been hard to bear. Yet, there they stood at the foot of the Cross sharing His shame and ministering to Jesus as He died. And friend, do you ever think of the penitent thief? As he hung on a cross beside Jesus he confessed his sins and trusted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Even in His agony, Jesus demonstrated the power of the Cross. “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise (Luke 23:43).” Isn’t it amazing that the last kind words spoken to Jesus were by a thief?
So you see not everyone came to Calvary to abuse, deride, and assail Jesus. There were those whose undying distinction is that they ministered to Him by carrying the Cross, moistening His lips, sharing His shame and, proving the power of the Cross. Ask yourself what can I do and am I doing it? Friend, when you engage in Christ like service, if only a little, don’t be surprised at how God is able to use you.
The service of Jesus true pleasure affords,
In Him there is joy without an alloy;
‘Tis heaven to trust Him and rest on His words;
It pays to serve Jesus each day.
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Easter is a time of reflection, when Christians worldwide focus on the finished work of Jesus on the Cross. I can only imagine the Savior bearing the burden of our sins in His own body as He hung on the cross (1 Peter 2:24) or, the crowds passing by that blasphemed Him. But, on that fateful day that Jesus was crucified, there were people who ministered to Him, who helped Him when the entire world had turned against Him.
Do you remember the man called Simon of Cyrene who carried the cross for Him? I know he was forced to do it, but when he saw the blood stained figure of Jesus, don’t you think that some pity stirred in his heart? When Jesus fell beneath the load, Simon carried the cross for Him. Then there was the Roman soldier who moistened Jesus lips when He moaned; “I thirst.” Think of the day of the crucifixion: the heat, the noise, the dust, the pain and, the thirst. Here was an act of pity in the midst of hate.
There was also a small group of His dear ones and friends who stood near the cross. His mother, John, and other holy women who had followed Jesus from Galilee stood by while He was dying. Crucifixion was a very shameful thing. To see Jesus hung on a cross, naked, in the gaze of multitudes of people who passed by must have been hard to bear. Yet, there they stood at the foot of the Cross sharing His shame and ministering to Jesus as He died. And friend, do you ever think of the penitent thief? As he hung on a cross beside Jesus he confessed his sins and trusted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Even in His agony, Jesus demonstrated the power of the Cross. “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise (Luke 23:43).” Isn’t it amazing that the last kind words spoken to Jesus were by a thief?
So you see not everyone came to Calvary to abuse, deride, and assail Jesus. There were those whose undying distinction is that they ministered to Him by carrying the Cross, moistening His lips, sharing His shame and, proving the power of the Cross. Ask yourself what can I do and am I doing it? Friend, when you engage in Christ like service, if only a little, don’t be surprised at how God is able to use you.
The service of Jesus true pleasure affords,
In Him there is joy without an alloy;
‘Tis heaven to trust Him and rest on His words;
It pays to serve Jesus each day.
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, April 2, 2011
ONLY ORDINARY PEOPLE NEED APPLY
Howdy Folks,
An advertisement in a California newspaper in 1860 read: “Wanted young, skinny, wiry fellows. Not over 18, must be expert riders. Willing to risk death daily. Orphans preferred.” Incredibly, 183 men, some as young as 11 years, were hired to ride for the pony express during its operation of just over 18 months. This advertisement in a London newspaper for a polar expedition in 1894 brought 5,000 applications. “Men wanted, low wages. Bitter cold. Long months in darkness. Under constant danger. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition if successful.” I wonder what the advertisers expected to achieve with this type of advertisement and, more to the point, why did these advertisements even attract any applicants?
Here is an advertisement that might have appeared in the “Capernaum Times” in 29 A.D. “Wanted ordinary people. Severe hardship. Expect to be arrested and whipped. Opposed by everyone. Constant public ridicule and slander. Violent death likely. Willing to persevere to the end.” As you have probably guessed this is not a real advertisement and, to the best of my knowledge, there was no “Capernaum Times” But this is what Jesus said to the twelve as He sent them forth to minister in His name (Matthew 10:16-22). I see Jesus gathering His disciples around Him to brief them before they left on their mission trip. He told them to expect hardships and persecution, but through it all they should trust in God’s unfailing care of His own and keep their eyes fixed on the eternal goal. These men were non-professionals. They had no position or wealth. They were chosen not for who they were but for what they would become. This is a characteristic of God’s work. He chooses ordinary people.
I believe in this instance that Jesus was speaking beyond His immediate audience. The scope of this passage reaches beyond the personal ministry of the twelve. Dependence on God and rejection by men apply to the mission of the church today. Yet, for over 2,000 years, countless numbers of ordinary people have responded to the call, trusted in God for His provision and relied on His resources. Jesus came to die for our sins and to rise from the dead to give us eternal life. But His life, death, and resurrection would be in vain if the story was never told.
Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the Cross of Jesus going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go!
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
An advertisement in a California newspaper in 1860 read: “Wanted young, skinny, wiry fellows. Not over 18, must be expert riders. Willing to risk death daily. Orphans preferred.” Incredibly, 183 men, some as young as 11 years, were hired to ride for the pony express during its operation of just over 18 months. This advertisement in a London newspaper for a polar expedition in 1894 brought 5,000 applications. “Men wanted, low wages. Bitter cold. Long months in darkness. Under constant danger. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition if successful.” I wonder what the advertisers expected to achieve with this type of advertisement and, more to the point, why did these advertisements even attract any applicants?
Here is an advertisement that might have appeared in the “Capernaum Times” in 29 A.D. “Wanted ordinary people. Severe hardship. Expect to be arrested and whipped. Opposed by everyone. Constant public ridicule and slander. Violent death likely. Willing to persevere to the end.” As you have probably guessed this is not a real advertisement and, to the best of my knowledge, there was no “Capernaum Times” But this is what Jesus said to the twelve as He sent them forth to minister in His name (Matthew 10:16-22). I see Jesus gathering His disciples around Him to brief them before they left on their mission trip. He told them to expect hardships and persecution, but through it all they should trust in God’s unfailing care of His own and keep their eyes fixed on the eternal goal. These men were non-professionals. They had no position or wealth. They were chosen not for who they were but for what they would become. This is a characteristic of God’s work. He chooses ordinary people.
I believe in this instance that Jesus was speaking beyond His immediate audience. The scope of this passage reaches beyond the personal ministry of the twelve. Dependence on God and rejection by men apply to the mission of the church today. Yet, for over 2,000 years, countless numbers of ordinary people have responded to the call, trusted in God for His provision and relied on His resources. Jesus came to die for our sins and to rise from the dead to give us eternal life. But His life, death, and resurrection would be in vain if the story was never told.
Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the Cross of Jesus going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go!
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, March 26, 2011
GOD'S TRAIL TIPS
Howdy Folks,
If you type cowboy trail tips into your internet search engine, you’ll get a lot of “hits” with widely varying degrees of relevance. When sorting through them, you’ll find that they seem to fall into three categories. Some, fall into what I call the life application category. For example: “When you’re in the wrong and need to set it right, how far you’ve traveled in the doin’ of it has nothing to do with the rightin’ of it”; or, “See the heavens, smell the air, taste the dust and the alkali, hear the wind and the wild, feel the motion of your horse. On a good day, that’s all you need. On a bad day that’s all you need.” Others, such as “Buildin’ and fixin’ fences wouldn’t be so bad if you didn’t have to get off your horse to do em”; or, “Cowboyin’ would be a lot more pleasant if Noah had taken the time to swat a couple of mosquitoes on his ark” can be categorized as whimsical wisdom. Finally, there are those that carry some spiritual baggage. “Just like Jesus, a good horse know what he’s doin’ even when you don’t”; or, "You make it to the short go, not by how well you perform, but by how well you let Christ perform through you.”
Well folks, the other day, I was reading in Proverbs and it struck me that I was reading God’s trail trips for a Christian cowboy. A wealth of understanding and wisdom is cached in this book to guide us along the trail. Here is a few of God’s trail tips for the ride: “Do not strive with a man without cause. If he has done you no harm (3:30)”; “Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well (5:15)”; “Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you (9:8)”; “In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty (14:23)”; and, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps (16:9).”
I’m reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words to the young preacher Timothy: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16,17).” Without a doubt, from cover to cover, the Bible is chock full of God’s understanding, wisdom and trail tips for the Christian cowboy. Not only is it a good read, but also it will direct your ride along the trail.
On the Trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
If you type cowboy trail tips into your internet search engine, you’ll get a lot of “hits” with widely varying degrees of relevance. When sorting through them, you’ll find that they seem to fall into three categories. Some, fall into what I call the life application category. For example: “When you’re in the wrong and need to set it right, how far you’ve traveled in the doin’ of it has nothing to do with the rightin’ of it”; or, “See the heavens, smell the air, taste the dust and the alkali, hear the wind and the wild, feel the motion of your horse. On a good day, that’s all you need. On a bad day that’s all you need.” Others, such as “Buildin’ and fixin’ fences wouldn’t be so bad if you didn’t have to get off your horse to do em”; or, “Cowboyin’ would be a lot more pleasant if Noah had taken the time to swat a couple of mosquitoes on his ark” can be categorized as whimsical wisdom. Finally, there are those that carry some spiritual baggage. “Just like Jesus, a good horse know what he’s doin’ even when you don’t”; or, "You make it to the short go, not by how well you perform, but by how well you let Christ perform through you.”
Well folks, the other day, I was reading in Proverbs and it struck me that I was reading God’s trail trips for a Christian cowboy. A wealth of understanding and wisdom is cached in this book to guide us along the trail. Here is a few of God’s trail tips for the ride: “Do not strive with a man without cause. If he has done you no harm (3:30)”; “Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well (5:15)”; “Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you (9:8)”; “In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty (14:23)”; and, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps (16:9).”
I’m reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words to the young preacher Timothy: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16,17).” Without a doubt, from cover to cover, the Bible is chock full of God’s understanding, wisdom and trail tips for the Christian cowboy. Not only is it a good read, but also it will direct your ride along the trail.
On the Trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Saturday, March 19, 2011
A BOOK WORTH READING
Howdy Folks,
The Bible is unlike any other book that has ever been written, in that you must first know the author to understand its content. On the other hand, it is like other books in that to be understood it must be read and studied. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The picture here is of a workman who is careful and accurate in his work and stresses the nature of the task, rather than the skill needed to perform it. Because of the Holy Spirit’s tuition, believers who diligently study the Word of God will be able to understand the mind of God and things He has given them. “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said (John 14:26).”
Folks, the Bible is the authorative, reliable and definitive handbook for true believers. Get into the habit of reading your Bible, ponder it, meditate on it, and study it. I think of the old time saints who came to the Word and meditated on it. They took their Bible and pondered what it said. They didn’t have the benefit of a concordance, commentaries or cross-references and notes on the pages of the Bible. Why, they didn’t even have the words attributed to Jesus printed in red. Yet, they knew their Bible better than any of us today. John Bunyan had about four years of schooling and only read the Bible. He knew his Scriptures so well that he was able to write the Pilgrim’s Progress while he was in prison. A.W. Tozer a prolific Christina author and pastor had no formal theological training. It is said that his preaching, as well as his writing was an extension of his prayer life and Scripture reading.
Today, however, Bible reading is no longer “in” and, for the most part, appears to have gone out of fashion. We have the problem of the relegation of the Bible to a mere book of history and tradition. In the popular mind, it is no longer a book of authority. As believers, we need to get back to the basics and dust off our Bibles. The Bible read, understood, believed, and obeyed means a life of joy and peace.
I still read my old Bible,
Like me, it’s shown’ wear,
Tho it ain’t new or modern,
The Words of God are there.
On the Trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
The Bible is unlike any other book that has ever been written, in that you must first know the author to understand its content. On the other hand, it is like other books in that to be understood it must be read and studied. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The picture here is of a workman who is careful and accurate in his work and stresses the nature of the task, rather than the skill needed to perform it. Because of the Holy Spirit’s tuition, believers who diligently study the Word of God will be able to understand the mind of God and things He has given them. “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said (John 14:26).”
Folks, the Bible is the authorative, reliable and definitive handbook for true believers. Get into the habit of reading your Bible, ponder it, meditate on it, and study it. I think of the old time saints who came to the Word and meditated on it. They took their Bible and pondered what it said. They didn’t have the benefit of a concordance, commentaries or cross-references and notes on the pages of the Bible. Why, they didn’t even have the words attributed to Jesus printed in red. Yet, they knew their Bible better than any of us today. John Bunyan had about four years of schooling and only read the Bible. He knew his Scriptures so well that he was able to write the Pilgrim’s Progress while he was in prison. A.W. Tozer a prolific Christina author and pastor had no formal theological training. It is said that his preaching, as well as his writing was an extension of his prayer life and Scripture reading.
Today, however, Bible reading is no longer “in” and, for the most part, appears to have gone out of fashion. We have the problem of the relegation of the Bible to a mere book of history and tradition. In the popular mind, it is no longer a book of authority. As believers, we need to get back to the basics and dust off our Bibles. The Bible read, understood, believed, and obeyed means a life of joy and peace.
I still read my old Bible,
Like me, it’s shown’ wear,
Tho it ain’t new or modern,
The Words of God are there.
On the Trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
Friday, March 11, 2011
A FAITH WORTH SHARING
Howdy folks,
If you are a Christian, sharing your faith is not an option. People without a born-again personal relationship with Jesus Christ are all around us, in our workplace, our neighborhood, our family, our home and, even in our church. These people are spiritually dead and without hope. Yet, there is an overwhelming tendency in the Christian community today to expect that someone else is going to tell them about Jesus – the pastor, a deacon, the Director of Evangelism, a Sunday School teacher or youth worker, anyone but me.
Now, let me ask you the hard question: How many of you have ever been the means by which someone came to know Jesus Christ? The fact is that less than 10% of Christians when asked that question can respond in the positive. Folks, this is serious business. If we really believe that a person without a born-again, personal relationship with Christ is on the way to hell, where is our sense of urgency? We seem to have forgotten our mission: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us (2 Corinthians 5:20a)". When we stand before a holy God, are we going to be humbled into the dust because we so pitifully failed to carry out the Great Commission?
Billy Fay, an internationally known leader in the field of personal evangelism encourages Christians to share their faith without fear through friendship evangelism. He says we need to get away from the “win them” mentality. Folks aren’t saved because we cleverly “manipulated” them to believe. Success according to Billy, is not leading someone to Christ but it is acting out your Christian life, sharing the Gospel, and trusting God for the results.
Are you ready to take up the challenge? We need to practice sharing our faith. Every moment of every day, we must be ready to share our faith with others. “That the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus (Philemon 6).” Only with practice will be become more consistent, confident, and competent as a Christian. Then in the words of the old hymn we’ll sing:
I love to tell the story,
‘Tis pleasant to repeat
What seems, each time I tell it,
More wonderfully sweet;.
I love to tell the story,
For some have never heard
The message of salvation
From God’s own holy Word.
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
If you are a Christian, sharing your faith is not an option. People without a born-again personal relationship with Jesus Christ are all around us, in our workplace, our neighborhood, our family, our home and, even in our church. These people are spiritually dead and without hope. Yet, there is an overwhelming tendency in the Christian community today to expect that someone else is going to tell them about Jesus – the pastor, a deacon, the Director of Evangelism, a Sunday School teacher or youth worker, anyone but me.
Now, let me ask you the hard question: How many of you have ever been the means by which someone came to know Jesus Christ? The fact is that less than 10% of Christians when asked that question can respond in the positive. Folks, this is serious business. If we really believe that a person without a born-again, personal relationship with Christ is on the way to hell, where is our sense of urgency? We seem to have forgotten our mission: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us (2 Corinthians 5:20a)". When we stand before a holy God, are we going to be humbled into the dust because we so pitifully failed to carry out the Great Commission?
Billy Fay, an internationally known leader in the field of personal evangelism encourages Christians to share their faith without fear through friendship evangelism. He says we need to get away from the “win them” mentality. Folks aren’t saved because we cleverly “manipulated” them to believe. Success according to Billy, is not leading someone to Christ but it is acting out your Christian life, sharing the Gospel, and trusting God for the results.
Are you ready to take up the challenge? We need to practice sharing our faith. Every moment of every day, we must be ready to share our faith with others. “That the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus (Philemon 6).” Only with practice will be become more consistent, confident, and competent as a Christian. Then in the words of the old hymn we’ll sing:
I love to tell the story,
‘Tis pleasant to repeat
What seems, each time I tell it,
More wonderfully sweet;.
I love to tell the story,
For some have never heard
The message of salvation
From God’s own holy Word.
On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann
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