Saturday, October 31, 2015

Trust and Obey (Halloween Style)

Several days ago in the Staples’ employee breakroom, I was thrilled to discover the following notice on the back of the door that went something like this: “Casual dress down day (jeans allowed) - October 29th-November 1st. Employees may also dress in Halloween attire on October 30-31st.” With me working on November 30th, this would be the only day I could take advantage of not wearing my work uniform, and coming dressed in a Halloween costume.
It was the Thursday of Trick or Treat night (my day off) when I had my annual dental cleaning at 11:15am. The receptionist (Vivian), who knew my family well, was tastefully dressed as a cat with her feline ears headband, cheetah (leopard or some exotic cat print) scarf draped across her shoulders, and black shirt and pants.
I thought her outfit was not over the top. There was no Halloween make-up. It was a well-put together costume that was appropriate for the setting of a dental office.
As my teeth were being worked on, I was thinking of something suitable for Staples. I could always put on a knit cap, and a wool scarf, but that would be that be hot for a five hour work shift. My version of “winter in Ohio” was a big “no.” Maybe I could get an idea from the local Halloween superstore close to my house.
After spending at least an hour in the temporary Easton Market Halloween City viewing all the spooky stuff there, I ended up rejecting everything but a headband with fire engine red horns. With a tasteful all-black outfit (as well as my newly colored hair), the head piece I just purchased would really stand out in a devilish way. (They have a no return or refund policy on items purchased in this superstore.)
On Friday, It was an hour before I had to be to Staples at 9am. After talking with three close friends(wife, mom, Charlotte Massey), I was wondering if I could really go through with the Satan horns I’d purchased the day before because God was whispering something different in my mind and heart. “As a Son of God, can you really be at Staples for an entire work shift dressed in a symbol that represents everything I’m against?”
After questioning God on the feasibility of not doing this and the money I’d wasted (should have checked with Him first), I quickly picked another casual outfit that would be appropriate and comfortable at my workplace. To keep myself from giving the devil horns to someone else, I cut them off the headband, and threw them away in the trash so I couldn’t resurrect them later. The lesson in obedience I’d learned from God was well worth the $8 I spent on my Halloween headband.
Lucifer is a liar that has fallen from Heaven (Isaiah 14:12). The times I’ve avoided doing some minor thing that God has clearly impressed on me to do (all because I might look like a religious fanatic) have been some of the worst times in my life.  It makes no sense at all not to give in to God when He first speaks to you. When will I finally learn this important lesson?

Never give up on the principles that are important to who you deep down inside. What has God been telling you? Have you been avoiding Him? Surrender is a wonderful feeling. It’s time to for you to stop fighting the Almighty. It’s a losing battle. My friend, “rest in peace.”

A Little Devilish

Be All That You Can Be

“Why are you [the person you are]?”* “Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous-how well I know it.” (Psalms 139:14, NLT) Whether you believe it or not, God knew and loved the unique creation you are before you even made your entrance into this world.
 Jeremiah 1:5 (MSG) says, “Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you…” What are your positive and negative qualities? As an example, let’s once again use a person I know very well-myself.
Among my positives are: I listen intensely to immediately connect emotionally with what a person is discussing with me allowing them to open up to me in a way that has been impossible for them in the past. I am reliable and an encourager both verbally and through this blog.
My service skills at work and volunteering are above average. I have a strong sense of what is right and wrong, and strive to make that happen on a normal basis. I can be very compassionate to an unfortunate individual in a situation.
My relationship with God is solid (in my own unique way). Family is important to me. I closely value the strong male relationships I have. My wife is my best friend.
I simply adore dogs of all kinds (especially my three Chihuahuas). Communicating through writing is important to me. Reading (via audio book) is an enjoyable part of my existence. I am a multi-tasker.
On my negative side, I can be rather blunt and sarcastic when I’m stressed or irritated. I can use my superb ability to write as a scalpel to inflict pain on innocent victims. At times I have tunnel vision to doing a project (like blogging).
I don’t hear or correspond to others communication with me. I am no raving beauty looks or physique-wise. Because of my age, height, and weight, my venting can often make others think I’m angrier than I often am. (If I feel a stranger needs a hug, I ask permission as I can completely envelop a person with this action.) I come across more spiritually than I often am. (I am very familiar with church lingo.)
You can ask my wife or daughter, I can be disrespectful with my language.  When it comes to certain things in my life, mentally I can set myself up for failure (If it’s not something I want to do or think I can do). At times I have no desire to do things according to the Bible; Robert’s way is entirely faulty, selfish (and familiar). It’s my default mode doomed for failure.
That’s enough of delving into my psyche. What about you. Have you ever done a pros and cons list on yourself? Did the good outweigh the bad or the other way around? I have no idea what makes you the unique individual you are. There is one thing I can assure you of. You are of great value to the Almighty.

*Adapted from 50 Questions That Will Free Your Mind by Marc Chernoff (www.marcandangel.com)

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Away from Home

Whether you are away from home and living by yourself in your first apartment, being part of a missionary training program, or attending college, there is a time everyone must grow up and put away childish things (I Corinthians 13:11).
Meghan Callahan (@meghanc303) is the author of the internet article, 10 Ways to Deal with Sickness in College, found on www.collegeinfogeek.com. Below are practical tips that can be of use to any college (or university) student in this tricky life situation.
1.  Recognize that you are sick Denial is not the first step to recovery. If your nose is running harder than the leaky faucet on your floor, your cough is louder than the [geese outside your window], and the library employees refuse to touch the books to you try to return, it is time to admit it to yourself. You are sick.
2.  Rest, rest, rest, rest, rest What this does not look like: staying out of class and then going out partying anyways. Running marathons. All-night study sessions. What this does look like: you, in your bed, alone resting.
3.  Get hydrated Drink some water. Not alcohol, not soda or juice—water. Hot tea can be very soothing on a sore throat, particularly with honey and lemon. However, water is the ultimate elixir for illness. Keep those cells lubricated, and help wash the germs out!
4.  Let your roommate know that you are sick This way they can make plans to sleep elsewhere (if you are highly contagious or you need time to yourself) or at least use extra precaution. Hey, they might even bring you an extra box of tissues or grab you some food from the dining hall if you can’t make it that far.
5.  Realize that missing class is never good—but then miss class, if you simply must There are some illnesses where it would be kinder for you, your classmates, and your professor if you just didn’t attend class. Here’s a handy list of questions to ask: Am I vomiting? Am I highly contagious? Am I likely to pass out or faint? Will going to class make me feel so ill that I will miss even more class in the coming days? If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, you should not be attending class. Email your professors or teaching assistants (who [can be] very understanding) if you are in fact extremely sick. And then get back to resting and water!
6.  Visit the health center on campus The health center is an awesome place to get cold medicine or diagnosed if you think you might need antibiotics. Also, most health centers will provide you with a note that verifies that you are, in fact, ill—professors especially appreciate this physical evidence of your infirmity. 
7.  Sleep It’s like resting, but even quieter and less work.
8.  Try not to fall behind on your work As much as you can, keep up to date on your reading, essays, chemistry labs, etc. But do realize if you don’t give yourself time to heal, you will grow even sicker and fall even further behind, which is never worth it!
9.  Tell your friends if you are sick They deserve to know if they were exposed, they can vouch for you to professors when you are absent from a class that you share, and they are your best chance at getting soup/crackers/vitamin C capsules/a lift to the pharmacy in the nearest town.
10.   Call home I know nothing makes me feel better when I’m sick than hearing my mom’s voice, no matter how old I get! Added bonus: a care package is almost assured after that phone call.
 Count Yourour Blessings

Monday, October 26, 2015

The Band: Create Your Own Story

Last night I dreamed that the band,_____________, got back together. They told me I could open for them if I formed a band by sundown. So I called my buddies,__________, ___________, and ___________, and we named ourselves ______________. Miraculously, we killed it at the show, and the crowd went especially crazy when we covered the song ______________. Afterward, we traveled the country playing cool venues like _____________ and eating ___________ at every Moe’s we came across. On the brink of breaking up, our song named _____________, which was inspired by my first love,_____________, went viral. If that weren’t awesome enough, we got invited to play on the TV show _____________. Just as I was shaking ______________’s hand, my alarm went off. Until the next dream…
v Courtesy of Moe’s Southwestern Grill


Cross Your Heart

Q: “What age is it appropriate to watch [The] Passion of the Christ?”
v Allena K., Akron, OH (Youth with a Mission)
A: My adult daughter, Mel Gibson’s 2004 movie, The Passion of the Christ,  grossed over $83 million it’s opening weekend even though the language was in both the Hebrew dialect and Latin with English subtitles.
The movie deals with the last twelve hours of Jesus’ life (as told in the Gospels). Jesus Christ was brilliantly portrayed by Jim Caviezel (of the TV show, Person of Interest, and the movie, Frequency).
Your mom and I went to a Gahanna theater to see this film soon after it came out around Easter 2004. At that time, I believe you were seven, and in second grade at Royal Manor Elementary.
You had made friends with a girl (named Anna) in your class. Her parents had agreed to have a play date for you with their daughter while we went to see it. I remember it was hot outside even though it was spring. (I think I was in shorts.)
Your mom was 38, and worked in the banking industry while I was employed with the federal government at the age of 40. Once we entered the theater, your mother wondered how many people would be enjoying their refreshments once the movie got to its worst parts. It wasn’t going to be a light, fun plot. (That was guaranteed.)
Among the utter silence in the theater during The Passion of the Christ, the only sounds that one could hear were sniffling or open weeping. The Christian evangelical community had whole heartedly supported this project because of its topic.
Many Jews nationwide didn’t like the way this movie depicted their people as the scape goats for Jesus’ crucifixion. While your mother felt honored for the sacrifice our Savior had made for our salvation, I was freaking out as visually the enormity of what Jesus had done for me cemented its message deep in my heart and mind.
I had to turn my head several times once the scourging began on Jesus. As the violence ramped up to the use of chains with spiked metal balls connected to them (that belonged in a medieval torture chamber) by the happy, blood-thirsty soldiers, I almost left the theater several times.
(I know your mother was wondering why her tall, big, strong husband was acting quite immature.) The crucifixion was not as upsetting as the scourging (in my opinion though neither was extremely pleasant).
I was thankful the camera did not stay on Christ the whole time during whipping (even though I could still hear). It bothered me to see how this was emotionally tearing Jesus mother (Mary) into a million tiny pieces.
A cloaked individual the audience had seen before was also present during this scene. We all knew it was Satan. (I would realize years later the person playing the Devil looked a lot like President Barak Obama. Take that as you wish.)
The victorious conclusion had the audience cheering out loud. The inside of the tomb is lit as Jesus sits up, and looks around (just like your favorite super hero). As to whether you should watch The Passion of the Christ on DVD in a private setting, this would give you the ability to turn it off if it got to be too much (unlike a theater).
Since I’ve known you all your life (and before), the movie could give you a heart full of gratitude for what the Lord has done for you, or you could have endless nightmares (or both). Seeing the movie should be based on someone’s maturity level (and not their age).
Whether you agree with me or not, it would be next to impossible for me to live without the presence of Jesus in my life. As more religious films come out every year, the main message will always be the same.

God can be a positive difference in the lives of those who ask for His assistance. He is waiting right now to hear your prayer. Don’t be afraid to make a connection with Him.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Peaceful

Q: “How do you live with people you don’t get along with? How do you keep from going off on them when they make you mad?”
v Allena K., Akron, OH (Youth with a Mission)
A: My curious daughter, Romans 12:18 (MSG) says, “If you got it in you, get along with everybody.” Our world is full of so much variety when it comes to the human race. Chances are you won’t always agree with (or even like) all the people you will be meet during your lifetime. Below are some tips in keeping your current existence peaceful in a world full of turmoil.
1.   Choose your battles wisely” This clever saying can apply to any human relationship in life. Before you tell someone off for something they did wrong (in your eyes), you’re your words give you the desired end result you want from the offender? (Probably not.)
2.   Edit your comments because less is always more” Not everything that comes into your brain needs to exit unedited out of your mouth into another person’s life. Though you can apologize for angry, hurtful comments made to someone, the words can never be forced back into your mouth.
Visualize pulling nails out of a piece of wood. The hole is always there even if it’s puttied over. Ultimately, Colossians 4:6 (MSG) states what everyone’s communication goal with others should be. “Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.”
3.   Chill out” Calm down. Before you allow your verbal diarrhea to spew out on others, can your statement be said less harshly (or offensive)? Bluntness is not a virtue when it comes to arguing. Actually, it’s a barrier.
Remember, you have no idea what caused the wrongdoer to speak as they did. Who knows what might be churning inside them. Can you see this whole situation from their point of view? It might help to explain a lot of things about the horrible circumstances you are currently in (or have been in).
4.   Forgive and forget” This will free you from the worst parts of your anger. Let it go. Chances are the other individual has moved on emotionally, and forgotten all about the disagreement. You are the only one still holding that grudge.
I wish I could tell you that I always follow my own advice. Sometimes, I succeed and other times I fail miserably with those I care about the most. You’ve lived in our home on Mistletoe Court. Life could often be more like a tumultuous war zone than a calming island retreat.


I am really hoping this post can help you. Allena, you mean the world to me. I am excited about the positive changes happening in your life. I would love to answer any future questions you have for me.

Saturday, October 17, 2015

My Gut Feeling

Intuition is something God gives you the day you are born here on the Earth. It’s that unexplainable feeling that can give you a true insight into someone’s character through hearing what’s not being said or with their body language. Intuition whispers in your ear to speak an encouraging word or do a good deed to a friend or stranger (see Uncomfortable, but Needed).
Your conscience beckons you to give someone a second chance that’s hurt you by reminding you of the many times you’ve goofed up. Intuition beckons you to do the right thing no matter how painful it may be to you both personally and professionally. (My opinion is that intuition, conscience, and God’s leading are all terms used to describe the same event.)
If we listen to God’s leading every time we feel the desire to do something positive or helpful for ourselves or someone else, wouldn’t this world be a much better place? God directing (our lives by us listening to what He lays on our heart) always turns out for the better. If you think you are being lead to do something that’s not in alignment with the Bible, chances are Satan (also called the Devil or Lucifer) is behind it.
James 4:17 (NLV) tells us to “Remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” This means when you manage to talk yourself out of (or logic away from giving) a positive word or deed to someone that are transgressing. Why is that? My feelings are that is wrong to rob someone of a blessing, or God’s will in their life.
How can you know the positive impact your act could have had in a person’s existence if you had the faith to step out to do what you were being lead to do. Your goodness might change the whole trajectory of another person’s life path. God desperately needs you to make a positive difference in another individual’s life.


Thursday, October 15, 2015

An Original

The work life of a retail cashier is never dull, but always busy. In between scanning customer purchases out, the never-ending supply of Staples Rewards applications are input into the store database, ink cartridges (of various brand names and sizes) are put into plastic security cases, and refreshment items are restocked in the front of the store.
My uniform is all black (from the feet to waist). From the waist to my neck, the light blue 4x Polo-style shirt (too large due to a recent thirty pound weight loss) has a black collar and is untucked and slightly unbuttoned at the neck. The arms of the shirt are trimmed in black. The company emblem is on the upper left side of the shirt. The magnetic white name badge is fastened below.
Quantity of customers can vary from a trickle (that I can handle myself) to a raging river of too many individuals (that I request employee assistance for with one of the store’s walkie talkies).
Sometime around 11:30am on Wednesday, October 14, 2015, “Roxie” (an attractive woman in her late forties) walked up to my register, and paid for her few items with cash. (I am unable to remember what was purchased.) It was a slow period. (She was the only customer at the time.)
I complimented Roxie on her hair. It was a mound of gorgeous black messy corkscrew curls haphazardly positioned all over her head. Roxie thanked me, and then informed me when she was in high school she straightened her hair (for hours) every morning so she could blend in with the rest of the girls there. I told her trying to be like everyone else had to be an exhausting endeavor at that point in her teenage existence.
I told her my late younger brother, Jimmy, told me to be myself because I couldn’t make everyone happy all the time. As our brief time together finally came to a quick conclusion, Roxie said it had been quite freeing several years ago when it dawned on her that all she had to do was be herself.
 If people disliked her as she was, that was their problem and not hers. Roxie adored her hair the way it was, and that’s the way it remained styled (natural) just the way God intended it to be. (My freeing time of self acceptance had come in my mid-thirties).
Whether God is currently on your radar or not, He has never lost track of you even if it might seem that way. There are no fancy prerequisites for being in His presence. God wants to have fellowship with you just as you are (with all your strengths and weaknesses).
You can also ask God right now to provide you with the right friends that will encourage and accept the “total” you. If you currently have a friend (or friends) like this, be thankful because not everyone does. The blessings (of associates like this) are priceless. So make your mark in the world with your streak of originality (and creativity) that lies deep inside you. God is always there 24/7 to help you with anything you need.


Sunday, October 11, 2015

Give It to Me Now

Q: “Do we care more for our own comfort than for the eternal destiny of the lost?”
v Allena K., Akron, OH (Youth with a Mission)
A: My lovely daughter, what a challenging question. Today’s modern society can be summed up in the word “instant” when it comes to our own creature comforts.
As a society we are impatient. We want our microwave dinners to cook in minutes; ordering products from our own computer at home (in your pajamas) that promises to deliver in a just a few days; communicating via text or e-mail that happens immediately; or work deadlines that were due yesterday (now). 
The older one gets it becomes apparent that some things in life take time. Developing a close friendship with a human, animal, or God can be an unhurried process. Writing your thoughts down in a journal (or weblog) format can be a steady practice that requires one to search deeply in their psyche for the answers to their existence here on earth.
A good marriage (between a very different man and woman) can take years to develop into a perfect partnership as the result of a lifelong habit.
Luke 9:25 (MSG) asks a very interesting question that fits our discussion. How would you answer it? “What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you?” If you acquire all the wealth and prestige in the world and don’t accept Jesus as your Savior, your eternal destination will be Hell (see Salvation by the Book and Scared to Death). Does that sound like a wise decision to make about the afterlife?
Discussing a topic like the above with a stranger can be a very sensitive, personal matter for the recipient. For someone to discuss the destination of a person’s eternal destiny with them, requires boldness in communication on the part of the male (or female) delivering the salvation message. Personality-wise, some individuals are too shy (even with lots of practice) to do such a daring task.
Others don’t want to deal with confrontation that could result in spreading the good news (to the intended recipient). Some individuals feel that someone else will do this important job. The last group doesn’t know why they don’t witness, but they have decided (for whatever reason) that this is something they have absolutely no interest in.
Witnessing does not have to be an organized event with many Christians involved. It can be the testimony of how you live your life around those in your world. A carefully spoken word or Bible verse can sometimes be the difference between Heaven and Hell for someone’s eternal destination.

Being a light in the midst of the darkness (Matthew 5:14-16) doesn’t require a college degree. Something about your salvation story can touch the heart of those you speak to. Just open your mouth, and allow your words to come out. I promise God will use your effort for His glory. Give it a try. The prize will far outweigh the effort you put into it.

Preach It

Allena’s choice to attend Youth with a Mission (in Akron, OH) has positively affected many areas of her life (see Who Are You? and Baby Steps). Her recent career choice of a pastor is in line with the internal change that is happening inside of her at YWAM.
Maybe your belief of no women preachers in the church is taken from I Corinthians 14:34-35. We can all agree that the calling of a minister is an important job that should not be taken lightly. As Allena’s father I’m proud of her decision. Though it’s difficult for me to make a connection in my mind with the “wild child” I’ve grown to love, and a calm, respectable pastor.
In Saul’s (Paul) day, many people had a difficult time believing he had converted from murderer to minister (Acts 9:13, 21). I guess it’s time for me to put to finally believe in the potential that has always been buried deep inside my daughter. Before she became my daughter on July 29 1996, she belonged to God.
It’s time for me to give up control of my adult daughter to a Heavenly Father that is hers, and has always loved her much more than I ever could in this earthly body. (She will soon find out that God will continue to nudge her heart until she comes in alignment with His career choice for her.)

Ultimately, God will do the work in Allena that needs to be done (whether I see the logic in it or not). My duty now is to support my daughter in whatever life endeavor she chooses, which I can do as I smile broadly from the sidelines and in my heart pray silently for God’s best for her.


Saturday, October 10, 2015

God’s Goodness

Oh, thank God-He’s so good! His love never runs out!
 Psalms 107:1(MSG)
It was Saturday, October 10, 2015; I was wondering how Charlotte’s cancer check-up the day before had gone (see Trusting Him). Via text at 9:01am I got an update straight from the source.
Oh, I didn’t hear it! We are praising the Lord for a wonderful report. It really couldn’t have been better unless the doctor had said, ‘You do not have cancer’…
The spot is a very small one on my left lung. It was almost too small to biopsy. The doctor is taking my case before a board of [doctors] to clarify and determine what treatment to use. He will then give me his recommendation on how to proceed.
When all seems to be lost, isn’t it just like the Almighty to bring a ray of sunshine onto a very bleak situation? I’ve said it many a time on this blog that God is not human.

His thought pattern and time frame are vastly different from ours. Unlike us, He knows the beginning, middle, and end of our life story. It’s always wise to allow someone more intelligent than yourself control the steering wheel of your life.   Do you agree with me? Take a chance with God, and see how better the events in your world go. What have you got to lose? 

Friday, October 9, 2015

Trusting Him

The day after her 76th birthday (October 8, 2015, my mom’s 75th birthday) my good friend, Charlotte Massey (see Our Lonely Daughter and The Reason for the Celebration), discovered her cancer had returned for a third time. (She texted me personally to let me know.) The news shocked, and frightened me to the very core of who I am as a man.
Throughout my life, Charlotte and I have always been very truthful in our communication with each other. Her love for me has been a precious gift I’ve never take for granted. Via text, I asked her, “Honestly, how are you dealing with this? Is your faith still strong?”
Her response was just what I expected her to say. “That is the only thing that we can trust in, Robert. I know my Savior cares for me. As long as I focus on Him, and not the situation I am good…When I take my eyes off of Him, I sink just like Peter did.” (Matthew 14:22-33)
From what I’ve known of Charlotte over the years, she has lived a full life as the matriarch of the large Massey clan. Her long-time husband (Mike) and four children (Joey, Chrissi, Amy, and Jenny) and their offspring have depended on the practical wisdom of this special female.
Realistically, Charlotte wants God to heal her from this current cancer scare so she can spend many more exciting years watching over the daily lives of all her extended family.
 I know my good friend loves her Savior a great deal.  If He should decide it’s time for her to make an address change to Heaven (see Out of This World), she’s secure enough in her relationship with Him to trust His decision (much like the faith a young child has in their parent’s wisdom).  For the woman that is like a second mother to me, God’s track record for faithfulness has never been mistaken.
Complete allegiance to Someone (other than myself) scares me. As a writer, I tend question everything around me so I can get an accurate story. Of course, that has carried over into my spiritual life.

Many times I think God needs my assistance in resolving one of my most current issues. (He is capable of coming up with His own unique solution.) Sometimes, I am unsure if I can ever get to a point of giving the Heavenly Father total access to all of me, but I am striving to reach that ultimate goal. What about you?

Ripened to Perfection

We all, at some point, grow old and acquire other qualities and these can always be turned to good advantage.”
Ø Paulo Coelho, Captivating Thought-Author Series,
Chipolte Mexican Grill
Youth may be admired for vigor, but gray hair gives prestige to old age.”
Ø Proverbs 20:29 (MSG)
As I look at becoming a senior citizen in the not-so-distant future, I realize there is value in old age. Older males and females, whose life has ripened perfectly like one’s favorite fruit, hold a wealth of knowledge, experience, and valuable family and historical stories.
Our more mature generation is passing away at an alarmingly fast rate. It is more important than ever to record now their life stories (spoken by them) before it’s too late, and the opportunity is lost forever.
Why not spend a leisurely afternoon with a grandparent (or great grandparent if you’re lucky)? With your list of interview questions and your favorite recording device, enjoy your family’s personal connection to the past.

Once that’s done; it’s been recorded for future generations. Be assured elder citizens have more to teach you about your life today with their past than could have ever be imagined.

Love Doesn’t Embarrass

(Day 69)
For if any Macedonians should come with me and find you unprepared, we, not to mention you, would be embarrassed.”
2 Corinthians 9:4
Love covers shame. It has a knack for putting others in a position where they can succeed and are kept from situations that cause them unease or embarrassment. If you know your wife or husband is uncomfortable in a certain situation, do your actions amplify their awkwardness, or do you work to ease their minds? A drop of thoughtfulness on your part can bring an unnecessary storm of dishonor to them.
Every husband and wife knows things about the other that they could use to humiliate them. Through the years, you will be given many opportunities to parade your spouse’s problems in front of your friends and relatives. But love calls you to protect their reputation.  A morsel of gossip or a moment of laughter is not worth the unnecessary pain of humiliation and damage it can bring to your trust. Unless your spouse is injuring themselves or others, you need to guard their secrets and their honor.
THIS WEEK’S DARE
Ask your spouse to tell you three things that cause him or her irritation. Do so without attacking them or justifying your behavior. This is from their perspective only.
v Excerpt from The Love Dare Day by Day: A Year of Devotions for Couples (2009) by Stephen and Alex Kendrick

·       As a result of finishing The Love Dare (also) by Stephen and Alex Kendrick (see Mission Accomplished), regular morning prayer and this devotional (before Bobbi leaves for work) have had a consistent calming effect on our marriage, which has brought arguments to a minimum.
I was skeptical about this at first. Putting God at the beginning of the day has made a remarkable positive change in my marital union with Bobbi.


Deal or No Deal

Q: As a child, I looked forward the whole year to the fun of Trick or Treat night. As an adult, the church I attend tells me Halloween glorifies Satan. Should I keep my children from participating in this holiday? Can you give me your opinion on the matter?
Ø Lesa M., Murfreesboro, TN
A: October 31st was originally called All Hallows Eve. (It was later shortened to Halloween.) This celebration came mostly from the ancient Celtic pagans in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France with their ritual of Samhain (the New Year). Unable to stop Halloween, Christians set up November 1st (All Hallow Day) to honor nameless saints who had no holy day.
Today’s practice of trick or treating originated with the Catholic faith in the Dark (or Middle) Ages. The church approved an act known as “souling” (or Soul Cake Day) for the poor. Beggars could ask for barley or oat cakes in exchange for prayer. This was an extra promise that a person’s spirit would be given entrance into Heaven.
Today’s church performs several events during this holiday for the children that attend their house of worship with their families. Trunk or Treat happens in the parking lot of a church from the decorated trunk of a car where adult church members pass candy out to costumed children. This is a safe way for kids to get their Halloween sweet tooth satisfied.
Instead of a Halloween party many churches will have a Harvest celebration. Instead of focusing on all the stuff that makes up Halloween, the primary aim is thankfulness for the abundance of the autumn time of year, and God’s goodness.
The youth in attendance have been instructed to come costumed as their favorite Bible character (or in a non-violent Halloween costume).
Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11ESV) “Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.” (3 John 1:11, ESV) “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8, ESV)
Verses like the above can be misinterpreted during this holiday by the church. They would seem to give rise to the religious community’s abstaining from what Halloween involves and stands for. Let me ask the following question. If a young person was enjoying a fun-filled day at an amusement park with his (or her) friends, would you have an issue with them entering the park’s haunted house?
If your answer is “no,” neither should trick or treat be an issue for you. There is no denying that some people do horrible things on this particular time of year as a tribute to Satan. Just remember, people of that caliber can do horrific stuff on any other day of the year, too.
If you are a parent battling with this issue, just remember your children consider this mindless entertainment (like many of their favorite TV shows, movies, and iPhone games). They see no deep spiritual meaning in Halloween.
When they are adults one day, will they have wonderful memories of getting free candy and wearing their costumes, or be saddened that you prevented them from enjoying something God had no issue with. (He always knows the true intent of one’s heart.)




Sunday, October 4, 2015

Scared to Death

Q: Several weeks ago I read 23 Minutes in Hell (by Bill Weise). For the past couple of nights, nightmares have caused me to wake up in a cold sweat in the middle of the night. Is the biblical Hell as horrible as I think it is?
v Lyle D., Orlando, FL
A: The Bible describes Hell as a place of choking smoke, and blazing heat (from the lake of fire), which can cause unquenchable dehydration and excruciating skin blisters. There will be a constant smell of rotten eggs (from the sulfur also known as brimstone) and burning flesh. A person’s lifestyle can make the path to Hell is wide and easy to travel on.
As much as one might find death a welcome thing in this abode of everlasting torment, that option is unavailable from the prisoners in this God-forsaken place. (Once you’re in Hell; your soul is eternally lost.)
The poor unfortunate beings present here may break their teeth due to the extreme grinding that their jaw is doing as a result of the horrid physical issues their bodies are currently experiencing. There is never a moment of rest from all this doom and gloom.
Because Hell is a bottomless pit, its inhabitants will experience the instability of forever falling. Maggots (or worms) will never die as they burrow into anyone’s flesh. In regards to your emotions, there will be everlasting regret, loneliness, fear, depression, and anxiety. It is better to go into Hell maimed than with all your body parts intact.
Other moaning tortured souls and fallen angels will be somewhere in your vicinity, but you’ll have no way of knowing where due to the total darkness. (The fiery furnace below will provide little light.)
The once heavenly angels here that have fallen are now turned into mischievous, grotesque demons. Who knows the atrocities they and their boss, the Devil, might do on the inhabitants fragile physiques.
 Just as those written in the Lamb’s Book of Life are safely protected in Heaven (see Out of this World), the names of the unsaved not recorded in the Book of Life are currently rotting in Hell.   
Author Julie Ferwerda believes that the above traditional view of Hell is not consistent with the message of love of Jesus Christ portrayed in the gospels. Instead, she has a very different opinion about this subject in her book, Raising Hell: Christianity’s Most Controversial Doctrine Put under Fire. You may find it a valuable reading venture.
Hell is not a place one has to end up in when they die. It does not matter how bad they have been in their earthly life. There is no way I will spend one moment in this unpleasant place. What about you? Make a choice now for a different afterlife before it’s too late (See Salvation by the Book). 
*Biblical passages used for the Hell summary: Matthew 7:13, 13:50, 16:26-27, 18:8-9, Mark 9:48, Luke 16:19-31, II Thessalonians 1:9, II Peter 2:4, Revelation 9:2, 14:11, 20:1-15, 21:8                                                                                                           

Out of This World

Q: I’ve listened to Heaven is for Real (by Todd Burpo), 90 Minutes in Heaven (by Don Piper) and Proof of Heaven (by Alexander Eben) on my iPhone. With all the information that’s available on a celestial afterlife, what facts does the Bible present about Heaven? Your help would be much appreciated.
v Patricia D., Greenville, SC
A: This unblemished city, known as the New Jerusalem, is a 1400 mile cube (in length, height, and width).The walls surrounding Heaven’s perimeter are two hundred feet thick, and made of jasper.
The foundation under the city wall is made of the following jewels: jasper, sapphire, agate, emerald, onyx, ruby, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, turquoise, jacinth, and amethyst.
In the wall that surrounds this massive kingdom are twelve gates. (They are constantly opened.) Each one is made of a single large pearl. There is no need for sun or moon. God lights Heaven with His presence. Nothing unhappy, painful, or impure will ever enter inside Heaven. All the inhabitants here have their names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. (They have all accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior.)
Inside the gates, you’ll find human time does not exist here. Married couples will be unmarried here just like the angels in Heaven. (The Bible is silent on how other family relationships will work here.) Heaven is made of the purest gold; the major arterial route (road) inside the city is made of translucent gold.
A crystal clear river flows from the throne of God through the center of this place. On either side of this water are two fruit trees (the trees of life), which bear the same assortment of twelve fruits each month.  I believe in this new existence, we will all live in large, luxurious town homes prepared for us by God. *
Heaven is an eternal destination that will go far beyond our human sense of touch, sight, smell and taste. How is it possible for us to comprehend the infinite with finite sensibility? However you need to prepare spiritually (and emotionally) for your life beyond the grave; do it now. It’s too late to make any kind of change after your last breath.
* Biblical passages used for the Heaven summary:  Matthew 6:19-21, 22:23-30, John 14:2-4, I Corinthians 2:9, II Peter 3:8, Revelation 3:12, 21:4-27, 22:1-2.



Friday, October 2, 2015

I Am Who I Am

Q: “Who is God? What do people think God is?”
v Allena K., Akron, OH (Youth with a Mission)
A: My precious daughter, some of my favorite characteristics of God are: He is not fickle. God does exactly what He promises He’ll do (Numbers 23:19). God is awesome, mighty, and shows no partiality (Deuteronomy 10:17).  He will fight on your behalf (Joshua 23:3).
God guides us (even to the end of our lives). He is the One who helps and sustains us. God bears our burdens (Psalms 48:14, 54:4, 68:19). He brings favor, honor, and goodness to those who walk in His ways (Psalms 84: 11-12). God (in the form of Jesus) binds up the grief-stricken, provides freedom for those in (emotional or physical) captivity, and releases prisoners from whatever form of darkness they are in (Isaiah 61:1).
Our God is faithful. He will not allow anyone to be tempted above what they can withstand (I Corinthians 10:13). God is not the author of confusion. He prefers peace. God wants to meet your needs (I Corinthians 14:33, II Corinthians 9:8). He is happy when you do well for others (Hebrews 13:16). When you show love, you are demonstrating one of God’s best qualities (I John 4:7-9).
In Exodus 3, Moses is at Mount Horeb herding his sheep. God gets his attention with a blazing bush (that isn’t burning up).
God is letting Moses know that he has been chosen to lead the Children of Israel out of Egypt. Moses is questioning the wisdom in God’s choice.
Eventually, Moses gives in to God. (It’s just a matter of time before anyone gives in to the persuasion of the Holy Spirit.) When Moses asks God what the Children of Israel should call Him, God assigns to Himself the name given in Exodus 3:14. (It is also the title for this post.)
Moses eventually comes to recognize that God’s reputation of truthfulness is solid. In both the joys and trials of this world, God is the only solution (and resource) that anyone can count on.
Did you know there are a variety of human opinions on just who God is? Some people see Him as a true Friend that they can confide in at any time (night or day when life requires assistance from a Higher Power).
Others see God as their “life jacket” whenever they are drowning in their own sea of problems. Of course, God hears from these individuals rather infrequently. (They seem to be interested in spiritual matters only when everything in their existence seems to be coming apart at the seams.)
Other people think of God as some kind of magic blessing machine that they can access when they have a special need. People in this last category often believe God works according to their current schedule. (He is mightier than us with His own unique time frame.)
Galatians 6:7(MSG) says, “Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest.” God loved you so much that He gave His only Son to die on a cross for your sins (John 3:16). Regardless of that, God will not allow anyone to make light of His reputation (or what is important to Him).

Depending on what is allowed to occupy your brain space, you will become a godly saint or a perverted sinner. The choice is entirely in your hands. Select wisely because the quality of your life here on the Earth depends on who wins the battle in your mind.

Everything

  “Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.” (Saint Augustine) It shouldn’t be surprising th...