Brian's Biblical Minute

Seeing Past the Manure

2012-01-19T08:50:00.000-05:00

“The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.” William James

There is a story told of identical twins: “One was a hope-filled optimist. “Everything is coming up roses!” He would say. The other was a sad and hopeless pessimist. He thought that Murphy, as in Murphy’s Law, was an optimist. The worried parents of the boys brought them to the local Psychologist.

He suggested to the parents a plan to balance the twins’ personalities. “On their next birthday, put them in separate rooms to open their gifts. Give the pessimist the best toys you can afford, and give the optimist a box of manure.” The parents followed these instructions and carefully observed the results.

When they peeked in on the pessimist, they heard him audibly complaining, “I don’t like the color of the computer…I’ll bet the calculator will break…I don’t like this game…I know someone who’s got a bigger toy car than this…”

Tiptoeing across the corridor, the parents peeked in and saw their little optimist gleefully throwing the manure up in the air. He was giggling. “You can’t fool me! Where there’s this much manure, there’s gotta be a pony!” (Excerpt from Chicken Soup for the Soul)

There are two kinds of people: Optimists and pessimists. Some will see the wonderful kingdom works that are being done, while others are always looking to find the bad.

Christian living isn’t about what isn’t, but rather, what is! Jesus is the perfect model of taking a bad situation and making something good out of it. There was no joy in suffering, separation, or sin being splatter all over Him. However, Jesus took our suffering and our separation, and our sin and created the most spectacular opportunity ever! Jesus healed us spiritually by His wounded flesh. By His bloody body, and by taking the sin bullet for us!

Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane was not a prayer of pessimism, but rather, a prayer of humility and service opportunity for mankind. Jesus didn’t see the last days of His life as doom and gloom. Jesus saw the last days as an opportunity to show case His Father’s limitless and unquenchable love for mankind. Romans 5:8 say, “God demonstrated his own love for us….”

The Jesus walk isn’t about whether we have all the latest gadgets in our worship gatherings, but rather, do we really have a joy for kingdom living? Do you love people for who they are? And, do we see people as an opportunity to show case God by the way that we live our life in the kingdom?

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Giving the Gift of Gentleness

2011-12-08T10:23:00.000-05:00

Fragile! Handle with CARE! Valuables. Breakables. Do NOT bend!

Gentleness is a demonstration of love and patience. Psalm 103:10 says “God does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities." Matthew 1 sets the stage for how God is going to put gentleness into motion by giving two important names to the baby born to Mary: Jesus: “He saves” and Immanuel: “God with us.”

The baby Jesus grew up and became a man. The values that he learned as a child would be put to the test. One of the most important attributes of Jesus’ ministry that would be tested to the very core was his gentleness. However, gentleness is one of the least talked about or even noticed abilities of his ministry.

There are three stories in the Gospels that give us a glimpse of how effective Jesus was in dealing with sinners and those who proclaimed self-righteousness.

The Well Water Woman - John 4: Through Jesus' unbiased and non-prejudiced attitude, He demonstrated the power of gentleness by treating her like a real person and not being judgmental even though he knew about her five marriages and living arrangements with the live-in boyfriend.

The goal was salvation, not condemnation!

Jesus, Lawyers, Pharisees, adultery - John 8: Gentleness? Yes! To a woman who had an affair? Yes! Sinner? Yes! Stoning rights? Yes! Were the law keepers and Pharisees sinners? Yes!

This scene of sinners is a teachable moment for those of us who are hard-nosed, judgementalist who think they have a market on rightness, holiness, and their own parking spot reserved for them when they get to heaven. Sounds harsh and with no evidence of gentleness, right? This is why it is so important to watch how we talk and treat others the way we want to be treated

Matthew 7 and 25 makes it clear that all judgment is reserved for Jesus, not us. Next time someone falls into sin, use it as a teaching moment, not a condemning episode.

The taxman and Jesus - Luke 19: No one likes a thief! The mentioning of the IRS will send chills down our spines. For Zacchaeus, he was the kind of man that took more than his share. He was disliked and avoided by everyone; well not everyone. Almost everyone. It is the Jesus factor. Jesus invites himself over to Zach's house.
That's right, the Messiah himself is now going to audit the taxman

This was no ordinary audit with calculators and spreadsheets, it was a soul-to-soul, heart to heart conversation about right living, not taking more than your share, and being fair and honest.

It had to be gentleness that broke through the barriers of Zacchaeus' obsession for money. He made a promise to Jesus that he would give money to the poor and repay those whom he cheated out four times the amount.

No recording of bad-mouthing the taxman. No condemning the thief. A simple conversation that resulted in Jesus saying to Zacchaeus, "Today salvation has come to this house."

gentleness was the means that opened up the opportunity for conversations, which led to restoration.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Stepping Stones for Spiritual Growth

2011-12-02T09:44:00.001-05:00

Our spiritual lives grow deeper when we our focused and taking steps to mature. If you are like me, it hard to be consistent in using the tools that equip us to battle sin, get along with others, and/or be faithful to the vows made to God. Most people do not wake up in the morning and say, “I wonder what sin I can do today.” When we were born again, we did not set out to live a mediocre spiritual life. But, in the busyness of our days, focus gets blurred and the steps to maturing gets steep and hard to climb.

There are four things that are key to spiritual growth that will enable each person to be a spiritual Christian each day.

Daily Worship – Worship is a 24/7 lifestyle: Revelation 4:8 "Day after day and night after night they keep on saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty—the one who always was, who is, and who is still to come.” When God becomes the center-piece of our lives and we see Him as the glorious and majestic God of heaven, it is then we worship with a heartfelt attitude toward Him. Worship is focusing on God: Psalm 95:6 "Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker." Being God focused means that we see clearly the richness of God, the power of God, and the gentleness of God. Our view of God will inspire us to worship Him with humility and reverence.

Daily Prayer – Prayer is an opportunity to Adore God: Psalm 8:1-2, "O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens. You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength,...." God has given us everything to sustain us in life. Prayer is an opportunity to Admit our sins: 1 John 1:9,"But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness." Prayer is an opportunity to Appeal to God: 1 Samuel 1 is a powerful prayer chapter of a woman who makes an appeal to God for a child. Hannah is a story that demonstrates persistence, faith, and integrity.

Daily Bible Study – God's Word is not just words, but food: Matthew 4:1-11, "...not live by bread alone, but on every Word...." Regular bible intake feeds us spiritually. God's Word helps us grow-up: 1 Peter 2:1-5, "...may grow up in your salvation...." God's Word will help us mature as Christians. God's Word equips us: 2 Timothy 3:10-17, "...be thoroughly equipped for every good work" The Scriptures teaches us how to live.

Be Spirit-Led – Galatians 5:16 says that if we live by the Spirit, we will not want to be involved in things that take us to places that isn’t God honoring. Spirit-led people keep right focus, right living, and right relationships.

When our days are filled with worship, prayer, God’s Word, and the Spirit leading the way, a change will come about in our lives that no power of evil can over come us. And, No amount of distraction can detour us from our purposed life.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

How Can I Be Thankful?

2011-11-16T12:13:00.000-05:00

“Give thanks in all circumstances….”

How?

My daughter is in Iraq. I am fighting diabetes. I have no job. My son is doing drugs. My marriage is falling a part. I’m depressed. My bank account is overdrawn. I’m tired of being sick and tired.

Circumstances affect each of us differently. It is easier to say, “give thanks in all circumstances” than to actually do it. Especially, if the person saying it has never gone through troubled times.

In this case, the one saying it knew exactly what he was talking about. Paul, an Apostle of Jesus had his moments in the suffering department.

Flogged 5 times with the Jews 39 lashes
Beaten by Roman rods 3 times
Betrayed by those who pretended to be a friend
Pummeled with rocks
Many sleepless nights and missed meals.

Paul said, “And that’s the half of it, when you throw in the daily pressures and anxieties of all the churches.” 1 Corinthians 11:28 (MSG)

No doubt, circumstances can make life difficult to deal with. The pain is real. Adversity is hard. And, trials take us on a journey of suffering. If allowed, difficult circumstances can wear us down, zap our joy, and defeat us. Our vision is blurred by what isn’t possible, rather than, what is possible.

Thanksgiving comes when we walk with God on the journey. God will lead us to the very place that restores our joy and hope. He allows us to take a breather and regroup so that we will be refreshed and strengthened.

Our circumstances may take longer than we desire and life may seem like it is crashing down. Never allow your hand to lose its grip from God’s nor your eyes from wondering off to find a quick solution. Trust God’s leading.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Good News for a Broken World!

2011-11-10T16:32:00.002-05:00

Gunfire. Roadside bombs. Suicide. Drugs. Abductions. Financial meltdown. Poverty. Bankruptcy. War. Rape. Divorce. Tsunamis. Earthquakes. Tornadoes. Hurricanes. Drunk-drivers. Drive-by shootings. Murder. Hate. Cancer. Disease. Racism. Homeless. Layoffs.

Broken?

Hearing the news their son has been killed in Afghanistan has shattered lives. Homes have been destroyed by wildfires. A trusted financial advisor has swindle every last dime. A baby girl has been taken from her crib…where is she? The doctor said, stage-4 cancer; no cure.

Broken?

Any relief? Yes! When? The pain hurts. The burden is heavy. The days are long. When will the shooting stop? When will I get a job? I just want my life back! Help! Somebody…Help!

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)

To be broken is to be shattered. When we are hit with adversity, we are shattered into a thousand pieces. Our heart hurts and the pain cuts deep. However, we are not a lone. Never alone! God assured us, “I’ll never let you down, never walk off and leave you.” Hebrews 13:5 (MSG)

God is in the reassuring business. Isaiah 40 says that he energizes those who get tired and for those who wait upon God get fresh strength…they run and don’t get tired. (MSG)

The gunfire may never stop and drunks may never stop driving. Cancer may not be cured and wildfires may rage on. However, we have a God who will get us through the difficult days and the painful nights.

Healing is God’s specialty. Comfort is a God promise. Hope is ours to keep. Strength is given freely. And, rest is on the lap of our Father.

Broken? Good News! God can fix it!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Jesus, the Superstar!

2011-11-02T12:00:00.001-04:00

Jesus was a walking attraction show. No matter where he went, he attracted an audience. Jesus was a superstar! People wanted to touch, see, and hear him. People would line the streets to watch him walk by, sit on the banks of the sea or the side of a mountain to listen to him speak, or climb a tree just to get a glimpse. Others would stretch their arms just to touch him.

Jesus’ star status wasn’t his music ability, acting skills, nor modeling career. His star qualities for the people of his day were his speaking ability, healing powers, miracle works, and raising the dead.

Thousands upon thousands just wanted a touch of an arm. A healing. A miracle. Or, a moment of his time. The people made Jesus their superstar. Legend. Hall of Fame. Most Valuable Player. Golden Globe. Oscar. Hero.

Jesus’ star status was not self-made. He didn’t sit around thinking up ways he could make millions of dollars and have tens of thousands screaming his name: Jesus! Jesus! Jesus! His star attraction came about because he was faithful to living out the very ideas of his Father. When he was twelve and told his parents. “Why are you looking for me? Didn’t you know that I had to be here, dealing with the things of my Father?” Luke 2:49 (MSG) also, his service to people made way for his popularity. Jesus said, “I did not come to be served, but to serve.” Mark 10:45 (NIV)

Serving the needs of people is what got it all started: Jesus heals the sick, cures the man with leprosy, raises the dead to life, the blind can see and the deaf can hear, he feeds thousands, removes demonic spirits, eats with sinners, visits the home of a tax collector, forgives a woman who broke the law of adultery, talks to other people of ethnicity, forgives. Gives grace, submits, humble, and, kept his word to his Father.

Superstar status wasn’t Jesus’ idea. The way he loved people and served made him the attraction of his day. He didn’t’ sell tickets to his events, nor did he have any hidden agenda. He simply wanted everyone to see his Father. John 14 Jesus said, “Believe me: I am in my Father and my Father is in me…That’s how the Father will be seen for who he is in the Son….” (MSG)

It is just as important for our twenty-first Century world to see Jesus as an attractive superstar. Not as worldly, but as spiritual. Today’s world will be attracted to Jesus if we live life the way Jesus lived it: Making it about God and not self.

To be spiritually attractive, we live like Jesus: Simple. Prayerful. Loving God and people. Forgiving. Shaping lives. Mentoring. Sacrifice. Grace. Right living. Connecting with people. Mercy. Indwelled Spirit. Making it about God, not self.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Good News for Imperfect People!

2011-09-08T09:52:00.001-04:00

God is Love! God loves his kids unconditionally; no strings attached. He loves us for who we are, not for what we do. He loves us when we are not at our best and when we struggle with sin and when we lust with our eyes and when we say bad words and when we lie and when we cheat and when we are unfaithful to our vows of right living. Disappointed? Yes! Angry? Yes! Despite all of our acts of rebellion, he never stops loving any of us.

God’s desire for us is to be our very best and to live out our faith that is attractive. God’s intent for us is to be Spirit led, prayer driven, and faithful to our vows of right living. We are a blessed people to have a God who still loves us even though we struggle with sin.

God’s love is demonstrated in many ways. He creates a day for us to enjoy, play, and laugh. He provides for our needs and gives us resources to sustain us in life. He gave us his Son, Jesus so that our sins would be redeemed and his Spirit to indwell us so that we will have the strength to keep our vows of right living.

We do not have to be perfect to get God’s love. Because of our imperfect ways, Romans 5:8 says, “God demonstrates His own love for us in this, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” God’s sacrificial love is evidence that his love runs deep for each of his children. John tells us “God so loved the world that He gave us His Son…” The gift of his Son is proof that God isn’t just a God of talk, but of action.

It is good news that our sins are forgiven. I John 1:9 says, “…He is faithful and just and will forgive us of our sins and purify us from all unrighteous.” Forgiveness is often not our way, but it is always God’s way. Isaiah 43:25 says, “I will blot out your sins and remember them no more.” God is not a grudge holder, nor will he ever bring up our past after he has forgiven us.

God is love! He loves us for who we are and not for what we do

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

Salty and Lit Up!

2011-08-25T10:47:00.000-04:00

Surrendering to God is a spiritual process. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolish to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.”

World without the Spirit:
The early bird gets the worm
No pain, no gain
There is no such thing as a free lunch
Demand your rights
Get what you pay for
I want people to get what they deserve – nothing more, nothing less.

Spiritually immature Christians have a negative affect on the world. Jesus said in Matthew 5:13-14, You are salt! You are Light! A NO Salt life means: “ A Christian life with no flavor.” A flavorless Christian life is tasteless, not Spirit-controlled, and it suffers from the “ME” syndrome.

The world with the Spirit:
Forgiveness (Not keeping our sin in his memory bank)
Love (He loves us for who we are, not what we do!)
Grace (Not earning our way to heaven)
Mercy (Not getting what we deserved)

In order to make a lasting impact in the world, every aspect of the Christian life must be seasoned with the flavor of Jesus. A Salt life means: “a tasty flavored life” If something doesn’t taste good; it generally isn’t eaten and thrown away. Christians have the responsibility of ensuring our life is tasteful so that it will cause someone to want to come back for seconds and thirds and fourths!

Jesus also said that we are the light of the world. Light helps others see what Christian values are all about. In order to help others see the value in having a relationship with Jesus, we must be lit up with love, joy, peace, kindness, and goodness. We must demonstrate godly values of mercy, grace, and forgiveness.

When the world puts the spotlight on Christians, they will see an attractive Spirit-filled person whose true beauty is spiritual and real living is tasteful, enjoyable, and reproducible.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

The Gift of Sympathizing Mercy

2011-08-13T16:00:00.001-04:00

Puppies for Sale
A storeowner was tacking a sign above his door that read “Puppies For Sale.” Signs like that have a way of attracting small children, and sure enough, a little boy appeared under the store owner’s sign. “How much are you going to sell the puppies for?” He asked. The storeowner replied, “anywhere from $30 to $50.”

The little boy reached in his pocket and pulled out some change. “I have $2.37,” he said. “Can I please look at them?”

The storeowner smiled and whistled and out of the kennel came Lady, who ran down the aisle of his store followed by five teeny, tiny balls of fur. One puppy was lagging considerably behind. Immediately the little boy singled out the lagging, limping puppy and said, “What’s wrong with that little dog?”

The storeowner explained that the veterinarian had examined the little puppy and had discovered it didn’t have a hip socket. It would always limp. It would always be lame. The little boy became excited. “That is the little puppy that I want to buy.”

The storeowner said, “No, you don’t want to buy that little dog. If you really want him, I’ll just give him to you.”

The little boy got quite upset. He looked straight into the store owner’s eyes, pointing his finger, and said, “I don’t want you to give him to me. That little dog is worth every bit as much as all the other dogs and I’ll pay full price. In fact, I’ll give you $2.37 now, and 50 cents a month until I have him paid for.”

The storeowner countered, “You really don’t want to by this little dog. He is never going to be able to run and jump and play with you like the other puppies.”

To this, the little boy reached down and rolled up his pant leg to reveal a badly twisted, crippled left leg supported by a big metal brace. He looked up at the storeowner and softly replied, “Well, I don’t run so well myself, and the little puppy will need someone who understands!”
Written by Dan Clark – Weathering the Storm

The person who possesses the gift of mercy has the ability to genuinely empathize with an individual who is suffering. The gift enables the possessor the ability to demonstrate compassion in a way that reflects the glory of God and strengthens the sufferer.

We live in a 24-hour news cycle. Tornado ravaged towns, flooded communities, subdivisions completely destroyed by wild fires; earthquakes shatter the lives of entire countries. Tsunamis wiping out villages, droughts destroying crops, and the list go on.

If there is ever a time for the gifted in mercy to stand and be usable for God is now. There are millions of hurting people in the world; but also in the very communities in which you live and the churches in which you gather. There are countless stories of friends, neighbors, co-workers and church members who have heart-wrenching stories of sorrow, pain, and disappointment.

Our society is filled with the sting of divorce, the pains of abuse, the struggles of HIV AIDS, the toll that alcoholism has on families, the loneliness that leads to depression. We do not have to look very far or very long before we can spot someone in need of the gift of mercy.

Compassion is mercy in action. Mercy is the Spirit working gift that demonstrates God’s sincere compassion on others who suffer.

The parable of the Good Samaritan is a spiritual message of love for neighbor, being an honorable citizen, and demonstrating mercy the extra mile.

Dr. Martin Luther King has referred to the story of the Good Samaritan in "A time to break silence"

"On the one hand we are called to play the good Samaritan on life's roadside; but that will be only an initial act. One day we must come to see that the whole Jericho road must be transformed so that men and women will not be constantly beaten and robbed as they make their journey on life's highway. True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar; it is not haphazard and superficial. It comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring".

The Parable of the Good Samaritan is about a guy who lays aside all social codes of ethnicity for the sake of taking care of his neighbor.

The Samaritan also demonstrates spirituality and not religion. Spirituality is being spiritual in action. Religion is a belief or an opinion about theology. It is obvious that the Samaritan wasn’t concerned about the wounded man’s theology, but rather about taking care of his needs. The religious men could not see outside their tunnel vision and take the time to demonstrate mercy.

What do you see in the very people God places right in front of you?

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

What Do You Do When You Fail?

2011-07-14T10:20:00.003-04:00

Failing at something is a normal part of life. Babies do not learn to walk the first time they stand on their two little feet. A baby fails many times before she discovers the art of walking. Baseball player do not hit home runs or get on base every time they swing the bat. Archer’s do not hit the bulls-eye every time they let go of the bow. And, Christ- followers do not live perfect lives, nor do they resist the devil every time they are attacked.

God is not calling us to be perfect in anything that we do. However, He does call us to be faithful and resilient to being our best no matter what it is.

George Washington, the first president of the United States lost 2/3rd of the battles he fought in during the Revolutionary war. Despite the losing battles, his focus was not to give up and doom the young nation to failure. It was in the lost battles that Washington learned lessons and resolved not to repeat them in the next battle. Because of the resiliency of Washington and his fighters, they won the war.

During Babe Ruth’s career, he was considered one of baseball best players. Even to this day, Ruth is known as one of baseball’s best. His career lasted for 21 years. Ruth hit 714 home runs. However, Ruth didn’t get on base every time. Out of 10,617 plate appearances, Ruth struck out 1,330 times. It was not the failed plate appearances that made the headlines, but rather, the home runs.

Thomas Edison failed over 10,000 times. It is not the failures that are remembered about Edison, but rather, it is the light bulb that we use everyday. Edison went on to have over 1,000 inventions during his lifetime.

R.H. Macy failed 7 times before his store in New York caught on.

English Novelist John Creasey received 753 rejection slips before he published 564 books.

Do you get the point? I like the statement that was in the Wall Street Journal, “Worry about the chances you miss when you don’t even try.” It is not about failing that should ultimately be of concern, but rather, about how one reacts to failing.

Thomas of the bible is remembered as “doubting” Thomas, a man who failed to believe that Jesus was alive. While Thomas failed in believing that Jesus was alive, there is so much more about him than a momentary lack of faith. Upon seeing Jesus, he left his failed faith and became a spiritual leader that was willing to do what it takes to be a Christ-follower. John 11:16, "Then Thomas said to the rest of the disciples, let us go, that we may die with Him.”

Living the Christian life can be hard, demanding, and painful. Failing happens. Going against God’s best for us, happens. Sinning happens. However, those who will not get mired up in the spiritual failings and make the necessary changes will not live in failure, but rather in victory! Romans 6:22 says that we have been set free and that we have benefits that lead to holiness and eternal life.

Failings will happen. It is what you do after failing that will make all the difference in the world.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Yes dad, I trust you!

2011-06-16T09:53:00.000-04:00

The water was murky, deep, and swarming with all kinds of river creatures. Black River is its name. Located near the town of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. My dad was born and raised in that little town before moving to the big city of St. Louis to work for the General Motors Corporation.

Many of my childhood memories take me back to Walnut Ridge. I remember the days of traveling in our green with brown paneling station wagon to see grandma. Before grandma moved into town, she lived deep in the woods. We drove on dirt roads for miles. There were watermelon and rice farms as far as the eye could see.

The scenery was a still frame. Farm houses. Outhouses. Dilapidated schoolhouse. And, an old white church house that use to be the gathering place of worshipers for the little community in the woods.

Many of our trips to see grandma would be spent on the banks of the Black River. It was as primitive as you can get. No RV’s. No electrical hook-ups. No bathhouse. It was camping as rough as rough can be. Thinking back to those days, I never remember anyone complaining about how rough it was.

The Black River was the center of our entertainment as kids and a place where I learned to trust. In order to play in the river, we had to know how to swim. One day, my dad decided he was going to teach me. He said, “I needed to trust him and not be afraid”. He picked me up as high as he could and asked me, “are you ready?” I said, “ready for what?” The next thing I know, I am flying through the air and seeing the water underneath me. I heard myself screaming in one moment and gasping for air the next. I’m kicking my legs and wailing my arms. “HELP!” I cried! My dad said, “It’s ok, I’m right here.” He picked me up and I held tightly to his neck. “I don’t ever want to do that again,” I said. But, I heard my dads voice say to me again, “trust me.” He picked me up as high as he could and said, “ready?” I said, “No!!!!!” Apparently, he didn’t hear me because I was flying through the air again. Gasping, kicking, and gasping. It was in the Black River that I not only learned how to swim, I learned how to trust.

Trusting in someone takes time. There are many who have been disappointed, abused, and/or neglected. To tell someone to trust in a God whom they cannot see and that He will never disappoint, abuse, nor neglect anyone has to be tested and approved over time.

I believe that the more we trust God and allow ourselves to be vulnerable and open to Him, the more we develop a deep trust in Him. Psalm 50:15 says “I want you to trust Me in your times of trouble so I can rescue you and you can give Me glory.” (LB) The psalmist said in Psalm 13:5, "But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me." (NLT).

Throughout Scripture, God has promised to meet our needs and always be there for us. Whether the needs are: Emotional. Financial. Physical. Spiritual. Relational. Or, just everyday needs. In fact, one of the Hebrew names for God is Jehovah Jirah, which means, “I am the God who provides for you.” Genesis 22:14. Paul said to a group of Christians: “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 (NLT)

Life can be like being thrown into the Black River for the very first time: Gasping and kicking and gasping. Life isn’t easy, people will disappoint us, and some will even be abusive. However, God is always faithful to providing us with the resources we need to live physically and spiritually.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Freedom Isn't Free!

2011-05-27T22:38:00.000-04:00

Freedom isn’t free! It is costly, demanding, and sacrificial. There are times in which our nations freedom is tested in ways that cause war. Over the last 100 years, our nation has fought in many wars. Thousands have died in order to preserve freedom and to keep other nations from being brutally abused or murdered by dictatorial regimes. Our freedom fighters must never go unnoticed or forgotten. Their death must not be in vain. And, their sacrifice must be held with the highest respect. In the last seven wars, 642,415 of our fellow Americans have paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom.

Afghanistan, 1230 died (and counting) - War in Iraq, 4,454 died (and counting) - Gulf War, 293 died - Vietnam Conflict, 58,168 died - Korean War, 54,246 died - WW2, 407,316 died - WW1, 116,708 died.

Memorial Day isn’t about having a bar-b-que, going on a vacation, or finding great retail sales, but rather, to remember the men and women who fought in the battlefields to protect us from the enemy. It is also a time to say thank you to God for creating men and women who has the willingness and drive to keep our nation safe.

Freedom is not free! It’s costly and sacrificial! To live in a nation where we have freedom is precious, however, there is still one freedom that is far greater than living in a free nation! This freedom came with a price. It separated a father and son. And, it cost a man his life. Not just any ordinary man, either. The man? They called him Jesus. Jesus? Yes! His name alone means freedom (He saves).

All of humanity was in the prison of sin. Hopeless. Chained. And, locked in the grips of Satan. Galatians 3:22 says, "But the Scripture declares that the whole world is a prisoner of sin...." Isaiah 59:2 says that our sins have separated us with God. And, God said in Romans 1:18 that He hates sin. Our sins have barred us from experiencing the joy of spiritual freedom and have locked us up with no way out!

Are we in spiritual prison forever? NO! Is there a way out? YES! Do we have a freedom fighter who can provide the power to set us FREE! YES! Who is it? His name is JESUS!

Jesus came to rescue us from the grips of Satan. Romans 5:6-8, "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Jesus’ sacrifice declared our independence from Satan Romans 5:9, "Since we have now been justified (Declared Free) by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!"

And, Jesus made it possible for us be set free from sin, John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

Jesus is our freedom fighter. His death and resurrection made it possible for us to live a life of spiritual freedom. Our church gatherings and our daily living must be a testimony of joyful freedom and thanksgiving to our freedom fighter, Jesus Christ!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

God Used My Mom

2011-05-05T11:01:00.000-04:00

I grew up in a home where “church” life was the norm. No matter the weather, we were there. If you were sick, suck it up! When “gospel meetings” rolled around, we attended everyone one of them. I remember my parents having the big name preachers of there time in our home for a meal – V.E. Howard, Jack Exum, Jule Miller to name a few. We were the poster family for church involvement.

My father was a deacon and served in the areas of benevolence and evangelism. No mater how tired my father was, he took his service seriously. My mother played the supportive role. There were six children to take care of, plus, my father.

When I was twelve, I made a decision that I wanted to be a preacher. I was kind of young to make such a career decision in the eyes of most people. But, I knew. As sure as I am right now of God’s purpose for my life, I was that sure at the age of twelve. I still have the same feelings as powerfully today as I did thirty-two years ago.

On most Wednesday nights at our church, the young men were asked to deliver a short devotional. I will never forget the anxiety I felt when my name was called to give the next devotional. “I’m twelve! What am I going to say?” I asked. The preacher, Wayne T. Hall said, “go home and asked your parents to help you. You will do great!”

My mother went into “operation get devotional” mode! I remember her spending hours on a five-minute talk. She and I went over it and over it. The title: “Where will you spend eternity”. This was a big time topic for a little bitty kid! But, we did it! I got rave reviews, hugs, and kisses on the cheek from all the grandma’s. But mostly, I got my start to preach the gospel from my mother.

My mother wrote many of my sermons when I was a teenager. I would have to stand in front of her and preach them! It was exhausting. Painful. And, time consuming. As I look back, it wasn’t all the training that I received in college, nor the experience I have had over the years that made me who I am today, but rather a mother who tirelessly helped me fulfill God’s purpose for my life.

As I have matured over the years, I can see with better clarity the value my mother has had in my life. While our home was not perfect and there are many memories I would love to erase from my mind, I cannot allow them to be the factor by which I live my life. God used my mother to get me to where I am today.

Although my mother died fifteen years ago, her teachings and faith building are alive and well in my life. The Apostle Paul said to Timothy that the evidence of his sincere faith came as a result of how his grandma and mother lived their lives (2 Timothy 1:5).

Spiritual mothers are vital to kingdom living. Mothers are used by God to point their children in the direction of their purposed life. And, when the children grow up, they will look back and echo the words of the Proverb, “Her children arise and call her blessed.”

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

The Scars of Jesus

2011-04-14T10:36:00.002-04:00

When I was in college, I worked for a grocery store stocking shelves at night. One night, as I was opening a box with a box cutter, I didn’t move my right hand out of the way and I cut my hand right below the thumb. Blood went everywhere. Throbbing. Burning. Pain. A co-worker immediately got a towel, wrapped it around my hand and took me to the emergency room. I received eight stitches and a scar for life. Every time I look at my right hand, I take a trip down memory lane.

Scars tell a story of that day’s event. No matter how we got the scar, it is a constant reminder of what caused it? Who caused it? And/or, why it was caused?

Jesus has his scar story, too. His scars didn’t happen by an accident or a surgical procedure, but rather, by a group of thugs who hated him. Jesus’ scar story begins after the so-called “religious leaders” made a spectacle out of Him by persuading Governor Pilate to do a criminal swap…Barabbas for Jesus. Barabbas was a murderer; Jesus was the Son of God. No contest, right? Wrong! The people wanted the inspiring thug and gang leader Barabbas rather than the lowly liar Jesus, who “claimed” to be the Son of God.

For the Governor, the only politically correct thing to do was give the people what they wanted…A death by crucifixion.

The scars of Jesus began at the flogging. It was a beat down of the criminal before the crucifixion. Under Hebrew law, 40 lashes was the limit. But, under the Roman law, it was limitless. Jesus was beat to a pulp. Bloody. Bruised. And, weakened by the whip of metal or bone that pounded his body over and over again. Jesus received a crown to represent his kingship. However, this was not your ordinary crown of gold and rubies, but rather, a crown of woven thorn branches that was pushed into his head to cause head trauma. After the anointing of the crown, came the cross. It was cruel. Heavy. Painful. A criminal’s death made public. Nails that kept Jesus in place as they lifted the cross and placed it in the hole for it to stand and for the people to watch the show until He died.

The nailed scared hands and feet and the speared side would become the scars of proof that Jesus is truly the Son of God. Thomas, one of the original twelve disciples needed to touch the scared up Jesus as proof that He was alive. Just like any Jesus story, He accommodates the faithless. Unannounced, Jesus walks into the house, goes straight for Thomas and said, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!” John 20:27 (NLT)

The scars of Jesus demonstrate hope and healing. Isaiah 53:5, “But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.” (NLT)

Jesus’ scars are not to be minimized nor marketed for the sake of making someone feel guilty or ashamed; but rather, to see the scars of Jesus as a testimony of God demonstrated love for all of us, Romans 5:8 and John 3:16!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

The Face of Jesus

2011-03-31T10:34:00.000-04:00

When I was a kid, my parents had a big white family bible that was placed in the center of the coffee table in the living room. On the front of the bible was a picture of Jesus. Long flowing blonde hair, nice tan, and baby blue eyes. He looked like a GQ model. I wondered for a long time if that is what Jesus really looked like.

For centuries, scholars and artist have tried to concoct some type of picture of Jesus. Long hair. Short hair. Blue eyes. Brown eyes. Green eyes. Tall. Tan. Light skinned. Muscular. Skinny. Beard. Mustache.

So, What does Jesus really look like?

Is it the appearance of Jesus that really matters or is it the heart? God said to Samuel “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the Heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

Commercials and infomercials are constantly trying to sell us products that will keep us looking younger, getting rid of wrinkles and removing unwanted facial hairs or blemishes and make-up that will change the way you look. We rush to buy these products because we think the outward looks are far too important to play around with.

But, God looks at the heart!

So, what does Jesus really look like?
-To Zacchaeus, Jesus looks like salvation – Luke 19:9.
-To the adulterous lady, Jesus looks like mercy – John 8:11
-To the 5,000 people, Jesus looks like generosity – John 6:1-13
-To the woman who was living with a guy, Jesus looks like hope – John 4:7-26
-To the murdering thugs, Jesus looks like forgiveness – Luke 23:34

For millions in our world, the first glimpse of Jesus’ face is ours. What do they see? Hope? Mercy? Generosity? Love? Acceptance? Kindness?

Putting on the face of Jesus isn’t a morning ritual that we mask on and then in the evening, take off. Wearing the face of Jesus means a spiritual face-lift that will dramatically change the scope of what we look like.

Being the face of Jesus is no easy task. It may mean rejection and disappointment. However, the permanent change will give eternal hope to those who become the face of Jesus.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Rescue 911

2011-03-10T11:26:00.001-05:00

It was nearly 4:30 a.m. our mission team just completed a ten day preaching and teaching work in one of the cities in Mexico. We are now headed home! No one but our caravan of cars was on the road; so we thought!

As we were driving out of town, a police car passes us with his siren lights on. We didn’t pay much attention to it because most of the police keep their siren lights on as they drive around town. All of a sudden, the police car turns his car to block the road. We slam on our brakes. When we stop, about five black trucks pull up beside us blaring music and out comes about twenty-five masked gunmen screaming to get out of the car, while pointing their AK-47’s at our heads.

Not knowing how to speak Spanish, I was totally reliant on our Mexican preacher to help me. But, the gunmen separated us. My friend Barbara was following behind us and they pulled her over, too. I couldn’t see what they were doing to her.

Is this the way my life is going to end? Are we going to die at the hands of someone who may think we have invaded their territory or have drugs? I’ve heard all the stories of the Mexican drug cartel and now we are experiencing it first hand. He asked for my I.D and Passport. Finally, there was an English speaking person, however, he wasn’t interested in chitchatting, but rather, interrogating me as to why I am in Mexico and why am I leaving so early in the morning.

I wondered, “How will they kill me?” “Will it be a bullet in the back of the head or a machete to take off my head?” I prayed, “Surely God, this isn’t the place where my life will end, is it?” I thought about my wife, Sondra and my two children, Roman and Tessa. I thought about where I put my life insurance policy. I thought about Barbara. I thought about my dad and my siblings.

As I stood there surrounded by masked gunmen, with their weapons pointed at my head, I was scared. I didn’t want to leave my family, however, I knew that if this was the place God allowed me to stand for the last time on earth, I will thank Him for the gift of life, but mostly, for the gift of rescuing me from sin and the home He will give me in heaven eternally.

The drug cartel let us go after nearly an hour of interrogating Barbara, our Mexican preacher, and me. I am grateful and give God all the glory for our rescue.

God is in the rescuing business. John 3:16 says, “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 5:8 says that “God demonstrated his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

God’s love is deep. His forgiveness is limitless. His grace is abundant. His mercy is relentless. His salvation is free. God doesn’t make us accept his gifts, but when we do, it changes our destination for all of eternity!

Life is uncertain, but God isn’t. He is with us every step of our journey. No matter if it’s the drug cartel or hundreds of Christians surrounding us, God is present. It is by faith that we accept God and Jesus as Lord and Savior. Once we have accepted Christ as Lord, we see the value in:

Acknowledging our sin and our need for God’s gifts - A sinner is one who goes against God’s plan for their lives. Habakkuk 1:13 says that God “cannot tolerate wrong.” A person sins in many different ways: - I.e. Lying; telling dirty jokes or saying bad words; talking about others in a negative way. The Bible says in Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Even though we try to do things God’s way, there is no way we can ever be perfect and sinless.

Making changes by repenting - When a person repents, they make a change in their daily lives by living God’s way. Acts 3:19 says, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out….”

Connecting with God by being baptized - Baptism removes the dirtiness of our sinful life and makes us clean into a spiritual life. We are washed clean of our sins and raised to a new life in Christ Jesus. Peter said in Acts 2:38, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” It is the baptism that connects us with God, Jesus, and Spirit according Romans 6:1-11.

Baptism is our response to God for all he has done for us. Baptism is not a work to earn salvation as Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been save through faith—and this is not from yourself, it is the gift of God.” but our connection into His glorious family! What a God rescue plan!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

15 Items or Less Lane

2011-03-03T10:29:00.000-05:00

The sign clearly says, 15 items or less. Not, 16, 22 or 30! I get all worked up over the fact that people in the “speedy” checkout lane can’t count! Can they read? Just because you have 24 of the same item doesn’t count as 1!

Am I overboard? Almost every time I go to the “speedy” (and I use the word “speedy” very loosely) I count the number of items that the people have who are in front of me. If they are over, I pitch a hissy fit. I sigh…loudly. I make comments to my daughter, “can’t people count?” To which my daughter, Tessa will say, “dad, do you remember that sermon you preached about patients?” Then I will say, “You pick a fine time to quote me.” Then she will say, “See, I told you I listen to your sermons!” Then I will say, “it’s not about patience, it’s about respecting the rules.” Tessa’s comeback is: “Well, who made the rules?” I say to her, “WALmarttttttttttttttttttttttttt!” In my very irritated tone!

Respecting rules are important. Someone says, “Rules are made to be broken.” Really? At what cost? Throughout the Scriptures, there are numerous times in which God deals with those who break the “rules.”

- Moses – Numbers 20:1-13 (Struck the rock, instead of speaking to the rock)
- Ananias and Sappphira – Acts 5 (Not telling the truth about some property)
- Lot’s Wife – Genesis 19:12-26 (Looked to see Sodom & Gomorrah destroyed)

What’s the big deal anyway? So what that Moses struck the rock or Ananias told a little fib or Lots wife wanted to take a peek behind her. So what that the “speedy” checkout lane says 15 items or less?

I am as much about grace as anyone. I also understand that we are not under law and can never earn our salvation. It is fully God’s gift to all of us. However, Romans 6:1 clearly states that we can’t go around breaking God’s biblical truths and turn right around and say, “I’m covered by the grace of God!”

We must respect God’s Word as truth and live according to its teachings. The Apostle Paul states in Galatians 5:19-22 that there are consequences for totally disregarding God’s instructions for our life.

When we respect the Word of God, the way we conduct our lives will be godly and honorable. When we respect something as simple as the 15 items or less lane, not only will those around you be less irritable (including me!) it fully demonstrates that the indwelled Spirit of God is leading every aspect of your life.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Smile, It Increases Face Value!

2011-02-10T09:13:00.000-05:00

There are many websites and even Facebook that has the title: Smile, It Increases Face Value. There is something to be said about an individual whose lips are pointed in the up position at the ends, rather than in the down position.

A smile conveys a message that things are good. I know, you might be thinking that there are those and even yourself who can put on a fake smile. I've done that myself. Whether the smile is fake or real, it still conveys a positive message to those around us. And, most of the times, a smile changes the atmosphere in the room. The last thing anyone needs in our little community of friends is a sour attitude with a frown on our face that conveys the song sung by Buck Owens and Roy Clark on the T.V. show, Hee-Haw many years ago:

“Gloom, despair, and agony on me
Deep dark depression,
excessive misery;
If it weren’t for bad luck,
I’d have no luck at all:
Gloom, despair and agony on me.”

Proverbs 15:13 says, “A happy heart makes the face cheerful.” and we find in Proverbs 17:22 that “a cheerful heart is good medicine.” Our attitudes color our whole personality. We cannot always choose what happens to us, be we can choose our attitude toward each situation. Someone once said, “What we put in our minds determines what comes out in our actions. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.”

Cheery-O
If you smile the day will be cheery,
if you smile the day will be bright.
If you think good thoughts you’ll be happy,
and everything will work out just right.
So don’t let a frown turn you sour,
don’t let bad thoughts make you blue.
Just always remember, think positively,
for how you feel is up to you!
Susan L. Wiener

“Most of us miss out on life’s big pleasures. The Pulitzer. The Heisman. Oscars. But we’re all eligible for life’s small pleasures. A pat on the back. A kiss behind the ear. A four-pound bass. A full moon. An empty parking space. A crackling fire. A great meal. A glorious sunset. Enjoy life’s tiny delights. There are plenty for all of us.” Source unknown

A smile is a wrinkle that shouldn’t be removed!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Lost and Found

2011-02-03T11:28:00.000-05:00

I’ve looked everywhere! It’s not here! I’ve looked in my closet, the dirty cloths hamper, under the bed, even in the trash. I cannot find it! Why would someone be so cruel as to take it? Why? I loved it! It was mine. Now it’s gone. I want to put up posters around the neighborhood to see if anyone has seen it. I want to take an ad out in the local newspaper with a picture…it might be that someone has a tip that will lead to me finding it.

Where are you my favorite green pullover jacket? I know you had stains and holes and rips. But, you were mine. All mine! You went everywhere with me. I wore you with pride. And, when people made fun of me for wearing you so much, I just clung on to you a little tighter. You were my favorite! There is no jacket that will ever replace you. Until we meet again!

Silly? Probably!

Sin. Guilt. Stain. Lies. What have I done? God said (Isaiah 59:2-3) that our sins have hidden his face from us. He doesn’t hear me. My sins, guilt, stain, and lies have separated me with God.

This is not good! Help! Somebody…anybody! Help! I’m lost. I need help! Please help me! I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you, God. I love you! I need you! Please, save me…I’m lost and afraid.

Wait. I see something! It’s a poster! “Call to me and I will answer you….” Call to me? It says that the number is: JER333…Jeremiah 33:3. It says, “No dialing required, just speak to me and I will answer you.”

As much as I miss my green pullover, I miss God even more when I go against God’s best for me and it causes Him to turn away from me. There are consequences to a blatant disregard for God’s Word. However, there are great rewards for those who turn away from a sinful life and renew their relationship with Him. In 1 John 1:9 John says, “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.”

Stained? Yes! Guilty? Yes! Sinner? Yes! Separated from God? Not anymore! Romans 5:8 says, “God demonstrated his own love for us in this: While we were STILL (stained and guilty) sinners, Christ died for us!” Acts 22:16 declares that baptism washes away our sins.
Isaiah 43:25 says that God will blot out our sins and remember them no more! When I totally give my life to God and do what His word says, then I am no longer separated from Him!

Stained? Not anymore! Guilty? Absolutely not! Forgiven? Yes, Indeed! I may never find my green pullover, but as long as I have God, Jesus, and Spirit, I will be just fine! Actually, I will be eternally fine!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Google Me!

2011-01-29T11:12:00.000-05:00

I decided that I would Google (AKA, internet search) “my” name to see how famous I was, or wasn’t. The search surprised me when I saw 19,100 possibilities of “me!” As I scrolled through the various titles with “my” name, I was alarmed…at first. One of the first “my” name postings was a library rapist. Oh, no! Then, I saw the obituary title and thought, “am I dead?” I scrolled and started to feel a bit of relief. “My” name was an artist, a professional hockey player, a director of a frontier ranch and so on. “My” name has some quality to it and I became proud again to wear “my” name.

What’s in a name? I’m going to throw some names at you. In a word, what is the first thing you think about? Ok, let’s play, Name What You Think Game!

Dr Martin Luther King, Jr.
Marilyn Monroe
Michael Jackson
President Obama
Carrie Underwood
Hugo Chavez
Brian McCutchen

Many times, we can only associate a persons name with their career, what we’ve heard on the news, or what we have heard from other people. I have never met, Dr. King, President Obama, or Carrie Underwood. My impressions are made through media, not through a personal relationship.

Our impressions are important, too. We also call it, reputation. Sure, there are times I have blown my reputation to smithereens. I have had folks asked me, “I thought you were a preacher?” Or, “Didn’t you say you were Christian?” In those moments, I just wanted to crawl in a hole and hide.

God has never asked us to be perfect. However, He did tell us to be seekers of righteousness, first (Matthew 6:33). God never told us to be a “holier than thou” kind of person. But, He did tell us to be humble (James 4:10). God never told us to judge others. However, He did say that our judgment of others would be rewarded in the same manner (Matthew 7:2).

Googling myself on the Internet was interesting! Much of what I read about “my” name had nothing to do with me; however, because of the same name, there is a connection.

Not only do I have “my” birth name, I also have my spiritual name. In Acts 2:44; the folks who accepted the message of the Apostles were called believers. Their reputation in the community was astoundingly positive. In Acts 11:26; the believers of Antioch were called Christians for the first time. Since “my” spiritual name is Christian, too. I have a responsibility to live out Scripture. I must love God first. I must love my neighbor. I must treat others with respect. My reputation as a Christian must point all people to God, Jesus, Spirit, and the Church.

If you have not Googled your spiritual name lately, I highly recommend it. There is something about our name that conveys a message.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Honk! Honk! Gotta Get There Fast!

2011-01-22T18:06:00.000-05:00

I am running late! I’m behind! Gotta get there fast! Gotta keep moving! Slowpoke driver, get out of my way!

Honk! Honk!

Where did you get your license, out of a Cracker Jack box? I’m late! Gotta get there fast! Gotta keep moving!

For some Christians, life is a constant drive through rush-hour traffic. There are deadlines to meet at work, work to do around the house; appointments to keep and people to meet, problems to solve and money to stretch. On top of all this, there are the Christian responsibilities: Being a committed disciple, teaching a Bible class or serving on a ministry team. Who has time to exit the highway? I’m running late! I’m behind! Gotta get there fast! Gotta keep moving!

Has your life felt like a rush-hour drive lately? Zooming from one responsibility to the next? Have you been changing lanes so fast that you’re flying by people without noticing them? Do you need a rest?

Pull over at the next rest area!

Jesus said, "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." (Matthew 11:29 & 30) The Message Bible

For less life stress, pull over so you can get the needed spiritual and physical rest that will keep you from spiritual and physical exhaustion.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

My Shoe is Broke and My Sock is Wet!

2011-01-19T11:26:00.001-05:00

The day started off with me walking right smack into the edge of my bedroom door. My head bounced off and my mouth said a few ungraceful words (no bad words, of course) to the door as I gave it a punch. Why did I punch the door? I still don’t know. I guess it made me feel a little better…well, until I looked down and saw a little blood and then felt the pain. Stupid me!

The day was cloudy and rainy. It was one of those days that I would have preferred to sit in my favorite chair, read a book, while listening to the crackling of the burning wood in the fireplace.

I left the house at 7:15 a.m. to go to my office. I arrive in less than ten minutes. I’m alone! Ahhh. I open the window blinds, turn on my computer, and begin my day’s work. I write. I read. I watched a video for a class I teach. I gave a presentation at one of the assisted living facilities. I made several phone calls, answered calls. And, replied to e-mails. I was feeling good. Progress, I thought. It is now about 4:15 and I was making last minute preparations for a meeting I had at 7:00 p.m. My wife calls and asked me to pick up some items at the grocery store before coming home. So, I did.

It has rained all day. I drive to the store, step out of the car and make my way inside. As I was walking, I noticed that my foot was feeling wet. That’s weird, I thought. I walked over to the canopy to get out of the rain. I lifted up my foot to check the bottom of my shoe. To my surprise, the sole of my shoe had a crack all the way across.

My sock is wet and I could hear the irritating sound of a squeaky shoe as I walked through the store! I walked as quickly as possible and with the least amount of squeakiness I could possibly make. However, I felt uneasy, embarrassed, and vulnerable. I also thought about the Scripture where Paul talks about having our “feet fitted with readiness…” (Ephesians 6:15)

I didn’t feel ready. Sure, it was my shoe. But, the shoe I was wearing was not going to protect me from the rainy weather. At this point in my day, the stuff I accomplished after hitting my head and punching the door did not seem as significant as the shoe I was wearing in the rain.

Spiritually speaking, our shoes are vitally important. For anyone fighting in a war, his shoes were of utmost importance. If he lost his footing, he lost the fight. Paul says in Romans 1:16 that our footing is the gospel, the good news by which we were saved.

As you get dressed for work or the day, check the bottom of your shoes (also, watch out for the door!). Mostly, pray that God will equip you with the right shoes so that you can keep your faith firmly planted when your are tested and as you battle Satan. Without the proper shoes, we become vulnerable and we will not be able to keep our footing when there are tests, temptations, and trials.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Role Model? Me? YES!

2011-01-17T12:15:00.000-05:00

During the “what we call the invitation song,” a little girl named Emily handed me a note. It was folded three times. On the very front it said, “Open!!” So, I did. The next fold said, “Keep going” So, I did, The next fold said, “One more” And, I did. Inside the note she wrote:

Dear Mr. Brian,
The lesson today was great! When you said “I can speak
for myself,” I thought, “Yep! Your Brian McCutchen!
Hero and preacher!!” I think of you as my role model in Christ terms!
Thanks Mr. Brian!

Sincerely,

Emily B.

Role model? Me? According to Emily, Yes! But, how? She said, “In Christ terms.”

How is one a role model in “Christ terms”? Jesus said, “For an answer Jesus called over a child, whom he stood in the middle of the room, and said, "I'm telling you, once and for all, that unless you return to square one and start over like children, you're not even going to get a look at the kingdom, let alone get in. Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God's kingdom. What's more, when you receive the childlike on my account, it's the same as receiving me. "But if you give them a hard time, bullying or taking advantage of their simple trust, you'll soon wish you hadn't. You'd be better off dropped in the middle of the lake with a millstone around your neck. Doom to the world for giving these God-believing children a hard time! Hard times are inevitable, but you don't have to make it worse—and it's doomsday to you if you do.”
Matthew 18:3-6 (The Message)

Role Model? All of us? YES! How? Jesus said, “Be like a child” A child has an innocence about them that is pure and vulnerable. They are accepting. Loving. Forgiving. Trusting. Jesus said we need to be just like a child…pure and vulnerable; no hidden motives. Masks. Facade.

Role Model? All of us? YES! We have a responsibility to demonstrate spiritual truths that will keep our kids from sinning and seeing corruption that will destroy their faith. Our words and actions do matter! Our children are watching and listening.

Role Model? Yes! We are role models that will help our children see God. Jesus. Spirit. The way we live life will tell our kids how important our spiritual walk with God really is.

Role Model? Yes!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

A True Story: Love and Compassion

2011-01-15T12:12:00.000-05:00

The following is a true story that was sent to me. I hope your faith is restored in people like mine was after reading it.

In the fall of 2008, there was an unusual high school football game played in Grapevine, Texas . The game was between Grapevine Faith Academy and the Gainesville State School . Faith is a Christian school and Gainesville State School is located within a maximum security correction facility. Gainesville State School has 14 players. They play every game on the road. Its record was 0-8. They've only scored twice. Their 14 players are teenagers who have been convicted of crimes ranging from drugs to assault to robbery. Most had families who had disowned them. They wore outdated, used shoulder pads and helmets Faith Academy was 7-2. It had 70 players, 11 coaches, and the latest equipment. Chris Hogan, the head coach at Faith Academy, knew the Gainesville team would have no fans and it would be no contest, so he thought, "What if half of our fans and half of our cheerleaders, for one night only, cheered for the other team?"
He sent out an email to the faithful asking them to do just that. "Here's the message I want you to send," Hogan wrote. "You're just as valuable as any other person on the planet."
Some folks were confused and thought he was nuts. One player said, "Coach, why are we doing this?" Hogan said, "Imagine you don't have a home life, no one to love you, no one pulling for you. Imagine that everyone pretty much had given up on you. Now, imagine what it would feel like and mean to you for hundreds of people to suddenly believe in you."

The idea took root. On the night of the game, imagine the surprise of those 14 players when they took the field and there was a banner the cheerleaders had made for them to crash through. The visitors' stands were full. The cheerleaders were leading cheers for them. The fans were calling them by their names. Isaiah, the quarterback-middle linebacker said, "I never in my life thought I would hear parents cheering to tackle and hit their kid. Most of the time, when we come out, people are afraid of us. You can see it in their eyes, but these people are yelling for us. They knew our names."

Faith won the game, and after the game the teams gathered at the 50-yard line to pray. That's when Isaiah, the teenage convict-quarterback surprised everybody and asked if he could pray and he prayed, "Lord, I don't know what just happened so I don't know how or who to say thank you to, but I never knew there were so many people in the world who cared about us."

On the way back to the bus, under guard, each one of the players was handed a burger, fries, a coke, candy, a Bible, and an encouraging letter from the players from Faith Academy . What an incredible act of Christian witness and kindness and goodness that was. Be kind to someone this week. Be kind to every person you meet. You might be amazed at what God will do with a simple act of kindness.Proverbs 11:17 says, "Your own soul is nourished when you are kind." Proverbs 3:27 says, "Do not withhold good when it is in your power to act."

Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

FAITH IS NOT BELIEVING THAT GOD CAN....
IT IS KNOWING THAT HE WILL !

Ready or Not, Here I Come!

2011-01-13T13:26:00.001-05:00

Birds are falling dead from the sky. Fish dead. Floods. Earth quakes. Wars. Financial crisis. Predictors are saying that May 21, 2011 is the end of world. They use formulas, world events, and Scriptures to determine their dates.

One of the first known prediction of the end of time was by a man named, Ben Zakkai. He declared that Jesus would return before his own death in 80 A.D. Since that time, over 200 predictions have been made about the end of time and the coming of Jesus.

Matthew 24:35-37 makes it clear that Jesus does not even know the time of His return: “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Furthermore, when Jesus does come, it will be a total surprise to everyone.
1 Thessalonians 5:2 says, “For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night.”

It is a biblical fact that Jesus will return according to Matthew 25:31-46. It is also a biblical fact that every person must be prepared for Jesus’ return. Keeping oneself spiritually equipped and spiritually clothed is key in preparing for Jesus’ return. Jesus said in Matthew 7:21, “Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter.” Being prepared isn’t mere words, but rather, living out faith. Love. Works. Being prepared is not keeping score of works either, but relying on God’s grace.

The Apostle Peter gives great advice in our preparation of Jesus’ return. If you listen to Peter and implement his advice, you will have the tools to keep you in readiness mode.

Use good judgment
“The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.” 1 Peter 4:7
The secret to maintaining the balance and calmness in life is prayer. Prayer is what sharpens our awareness so that we’ll be more perceptive than we would normally be.

Love one another deeply
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
1 Peter 4:8

If ever there is a time to love one another to our inner limit, it is now! Proverbs 10:12 says, “Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs.” Someone once said, “We are most like beast when we kill. We are most like men when we judge. We are most like God when we forgive.” Words that have anger behind them will only cripple the relationship and at times, destroy friendships. We must live by the motto: Love people for who they are, not what they do.

Be nice without complaining
“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” 1 Peter 4:9

This does not refer to just those who are lovable, friendly, or fun to be with. It refers to all who are in the body of Christ, even the unlovable and unfriendly.

Serve others
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 10-11

Peter points out that the gifts we have should be used in serving others in a way that gives total honor and glory to God. We can serve others by giving a cold glass of ice tea or raking someone’s yard or visiting a nursing home or teaching someone about Jesus or cooking a meal for a sick person or driving your neighbor to the grocery store. All of the serving we do is not for our earthly benefit, but rather our spiritual benefit. Our serving does not earn us heaven points, but it does give us credibility in God’s eyes.

Jesus will come again, are you ready?

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Finding Joy and Learning to Trust

2011-01-04T11:51:00.000-05:00

How can we experience joy that lasts, when...
Those who are already feeling the affects of a housing and/or financial crisis?

Those who are unemployed? Those dealing with strained relationship issues?

Those who are sad and grieving? Those who are lonely and isolated?

Those who face constant rejection? Those in emotional or spiritual turmoil?

Those who are homeless, hungry and suffering? Those who are ill, especially terminally ill?

Joy and happiness are not the same:
Happiness seems to depend on our external circumstances. If our circumstances are pleasant, our needs are being met, and we have the approval of family and friends, we generally feel happy with our lives.

Joy however is a Spirit-fruit quality that sustains us when the storms of life are raging. Spiritual joy comes from within and does not depend upon our circumstances, family, or friends.

Joy can be zapped by our lack of trust in God or sin in our lives that quench the Spirits power. We must be disciplined to get dressed spiritually so that when attacks come, we are equipped to fight the battles. Also, the disciplined life will enhance the joyful life and keep our trust in God and know that God knows what He is supposed to do and how to do it.

Finding lasting joy through trusting
John 14:1-4, Jesus said, "Trust in God...." I believe that trust is earned. Over time and as we get to know the person, a relationship of trust is being built. But when it comes to God, How can someone trust God when life is hard? When a person has been abused? Raped? Abandoned?

God doesn't do bad things to people; people do bad things to people. Joy will come when we get to know God and believe He has our best interest at heart.

After hundreds of years in brutal oppression, slavery, and hard labor, God heard the cries of the Israelites and freed them from a dictatorial regime.

It wasn't an overnight sensation of joy and trust that the Israelites developed with God; it was forty years of traveling, listening, and seeing that God can be trusted. After all, these people had been abused and neglected. No one can just turn off the switch and become joyful and trusting; it takes time. For the Israelites, they eventually trusted God and began to feel that God was in their corner.

The following Hebrew names for God are examples of the type of God we serve and the kind of God He was to the people of Israel and for all of us today!

Jehovah Shalom - "God is our peace" Judges 6:24

El Shaddai - "My Supplier" Genesis 17:1

Adonai - "My Master" Genesis 18:3

Jehovah Rohi - "My Shepherd" Psalm 23:1

Jehovah Jireh - "My Provider" Genesis 22:14

Be joyful and trust that God is aware of you. He knows your name and He loves you deeply and forever!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Anxiousness - A Deterrent to Peaceful Living

2010-12-30T10:21:00.001-05:00

"Do not be anxious about anything...." Philippians 4:6 Paul’s words to the church at Philippi are not easy ones to swallow. When you tell someone not to do something, there has to be a good reason why they need to stop.
While Paul was giving advice to the church, he was dealing with his own issues of incarceration. Also, there was an anxious spirit stirring by a couple of the ladies at the church (Euodia and Syntyche) who were fighting and bringing division into the church.

Anxiousness is gripping and it keeps us in a whirlwind of uncertainty. The Greek word translated as "anxious" is "to be pulled in different directions." Our fearfulness pulls us in one direction and our hope pulls us in the other direction; thus, we are pulled apart!

Worry is an old German word called: Wyrgan. It means, "to strangle, choke, or tear at the throat with teeth." The word is still used in its original meaning: when we speak of a cat worrying a mouse. "Cats play with their prey before they kill it. A slap to the head sends the mouse reeling and sliding across the floor. While it is still groggy, a slap on the other side sends it sliding back. It is only when the cat get tired of this game that it goes for the throat."

Dictatorial regimes enjoy watching their citizens become anxious and fearful. Once the regime has them in the grips of anxiousness, they now can effectively rule and control them. Jesus, on the other hand is not about being a tyrant dictatorial king who oppresses his subjects, but rather, a gentle Savior whose desire is to remove stress, anxiety, and a worrisome life.

Jesus nestled himself on the side of a mountain and began to teach the large crowd who had diseases, pain, demon-possession, seizures, and those who were paralyzed. (Starting in Matthew 5) In Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus is giving spiritual guidance to the thousands with the problem of anxiousness. Worry. Stress.

How to overcome anxiousness Jesus' way:

#1. Don't sweat about the physical stuff (25) - While food, clothing, and water are important, the real substance in life is feasting upon the Word's of God. Matthew 4:1-11, "...not live by bread alone, but on every Word...."

Life was not meant to primarily please ourselves, but rather, to bring glory and honor to God - Matthew 5:16.

#2. The Most Valuable Person (MVP) of all of God's creation (26) - If you ever watch a bird, you will notice that they are not lazy. They are digging for worms and bugs, as well as, building nests out of scraps of tree leaves or other materials. Birds do not horde a load of worms in their nest, nor are they concern if there will be any food tomorrow. They live as hard working creatures with no worries of where the next meal is going to come from.

Genesis 22:14 depicts the story of Abraham and Isaac and the testing of faith. God is called the Provider - Jehovah Jireh. When we put our absolute faith in God, all the needed resources will be provided at His timing and at his amount.

#3. Can't stretch your life years (27) - Anxiousness sabotages our joy, zaps our energy, and displaces our courage. Proverbs 12:25, "An anxious heart weighs a man down...." But Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."

Eating right and exercising can lead to a better healthier life; however, it is God who makes all the determinations of the length of our life. We trust that God knows what God is doing.
1 Peter 5:7 says "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Jesus' Birth and the Births of 1809

2010-12-02T11:27:00.002-05:00

In the year of 1809, the world was in great turmoil. War was the coffee house conversations and newspaper headlines. In 1809, Napoleon was sweeping through Austria, killing everything insight as blood flowed freely on the battlefields.

As the war raged on, nobody cared about babies being born that year. No thought of who just might be the next writer, President, or Prime Minister to help change the world for the better. The births of 1809 were much like the birth of Jesus; everyone was preoccupied with the events of the day. Out of a war torn year of 1809 came some extraordinary births:

William Gladstone was born in Liverpool, England. He was destined to become one of England’s Prime ministers.

Alfred Tennyson was born in Somersby, England. He would become a great writer and help shape literacy.

 Oliver Wendell Holmes was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He was considered one of the best writers of the 19th century.

Edgar Allen Poe began his life in Boston, Massachusetts. He was known as an inspiring writer.

 Abraham Lincoln was born in a rugged cabin in Hardin County, Kentucky. He became the 16th President of the United States and helped abolish slavery.

It is true to say that Napoleon was a force to be reckoned with in 1809, but it is also true that the births that year would greatly impact the future of the world. More so than War Generals, Presidents, Prime Ministers and writers that came out of 1809, Jesus’ birth around 5 B.C. would be the most significant of all births in any century of time. As God has set into motion the significant births that will help shape the literary world or congressional offices, God also set into motion the redemptive plan for his children:

Redemption (freedom) – Ephesians 1:7 – “In Him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.”

Reconciliation (bringing together) – Romans 5:11 – “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”

Relationship with God – Isaiah 59:2, “Our sins have separated us with God.”

Births are important! Never underestimate what God can do through you or your child. For you might be the next great writer, President, or War General. Mostly, you just might be the next Christian to light up the world for Jesus or become a tasty flavor of goodness for the world to spiritually taste.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Why We Celebrate Thanksgiving Day!

2010-11-23T09:10:00.000-05:00

The Dallas Cowboys. Turkey. Stuffing. The busiest travel day of the year. Parades. Grandma’s house. Cranberry sauce. Pumpkin pie. All of these listed and more have become synonymous with Thanksgiving. However, Thanksgiving did not start with the idea that we can watch parades, football or prepare for the Christmas shopping the next day. Thanksgiving started because of the generosity of the pilgrim’s neighbors.

The story is told that the first Thanksgiving Day was in 1621 when the Native Americans had a great farming season and the pilgrims were running out of food. The Native Americans had compassion on the pilgrims, so they invited them to a great feast. In this great feast they ate turkey, pumpkin, cranberries, corn, and other foods. The great feast was about sharing the blessings they had received and preventing their neighbors from starving.

In the late 1700's, George Washington declared that the third Thursday of November would be Thanksgiving; a day to celebrate the generosity that the pilgrims had received from the Native Americans. However, Thanksgiving started taking on a new meaning when in 1939, President Roosevelt set Thanksgiving Day one week earlier so that merchants could have a longer shopping season before Christmas. Trying to get back to the real reason of Thanksgiving, Congress ruled in 1941 that Thanksgiving would be the 4th Thursday in November and become a Federal holiday proclaimed by the President each year.

We all have our reasons why we celebrate Thanksgiving Day. To the Native Americans, it was about being thankful for the abundance of the crops and generosity. For the Christian, it can be about not only being generous with the blessings we have received from God, but also about how we can demonstrate our thankfulness. I suggest three ways to demonstrate your thankfulness this year:

#1. By singing: Psalm 147:7 says "Sing out your thanks to Him, sing praises to God." Nothing makes you more aware of God's presence faster than praising God.

#2. By serving: The Bible says to: “Serve the Lord with gladness.” When we serve, it puts God on display for others to see how wonderful, gentle, and caring He is

#3. By sharing: Sharing the gospel shows our gratefulness toward God for what He has done in our lives. Isaiah 12:4 says, Thank the LORD! Praise his name! Tell the nations what he has done….”

This year, find ways to be generous and at the same time, demonstrate your thankfulness for what God has done in your life!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Spiritual Connectedness

2010-11-17T10:09:00.000-05:00

I want you to know that our life does not consist of working our way to heaven, but rather being invited in because of the grace of God.

I bear fruit in my life because I love God. I do not do “works” in my Christian life because I am afraid that God will send me to hell. I do “works” in my Christian life because I am grateful for the grace, mercy, and forgiveness He has “freely” given me!!!! God will not keep the doors of heaven shut and prevent anyone from coming in if we do not keep a 40 hour spiritual work week. Those who “love” God will always be a light. Forgive often. Tell the Good News! Be commited to discipleship. Love unconditionally. Accept people for who they are. Heavens doors are wide open for anyone who accepts the gifts God has freely given.

It is not our job to be the keeper of the gate and determine who is faithful and who will get heaven. It is our priveldege to tell the powerful news of Jesus and share our testimony of what He has done in our lives.

Chuck Swindoll is a premier religious writer and an excellent speaker. Chuck gives some very good principles on bearing fruit when he/she is connected to God. The following is an article from Chuck Swindoll:

Just before His death and resurrection, Jesus revealed that the secret of growing God's fruit is in being at home with Him. That's the true definition of the familiar word abide. This is how Jesus describes what that means in John 15:5: "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing."

Spiritual fruit is not the result of self-effort. You grow more of God's fruit not when you try harder, but when you stay connected to the Source. When you abide in Christ, you invite Him to live with you each day and reproduce His character in you. God's character at work in you looks like:

LOVE: This is God's agape, love that selflessly seeks the highest good of the other person.

JOY: Joy as a fruit of the Spirit is a settled confidence because God controls the details of your life, you can trust Him in any circumstance

PEACE: The unshakable, inner calm you experience when your mind and heart are at rest because you are trusting fully in Christ.

PATIENCE: A fruit of the Spirit that means to be "long-tempered," the opposite of short-fused irritability.

KINDNESS: The Spirit's fruit that braids mercy and grace, humility and gentleness all together.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Walking in the Spirit

2010-11-09T17:33:00.001-05:00

We don't seem to talk about the powerful work the Spirit does in our lives. We haven't given Him the attention that is deserving of one who spends a lot of time empowering us to do right. Convicting us of sin. Motivating us to be on top of our spiritual game. I like what Rubel Shelly says about the Spirit: "If the Spirit is in you and lives within you, a yielded, surrendered vessel, the things your life displays will allow everyone to know you are God's own."

Galatians 5 is a section of Scripture that reveals the powerful importance of the Spirit in our daily walk. Galatians 5:16 says, “So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” The Spirit is God’s agent to keep us from spiritually destroying ourselves whenever the sinful nature gets out of control.

Sandwiched in between Galatians 5:16 and 5:25 is a description of what a non-Spirit controlled person lives like and one who is walking in the Spirit. Both walks get gratification and rewards. However, the sinful, non-Spirit led walk get only temporary satisfaction and the reward is death and separation from God for allowing self to be controlled by fleshly desires. But, the one whose walk is in step with the Spirit gets eternal gratification and eternal blessings in heaven forever with God, Jesus, and Spirit!

Galatians 5:22-23 gives a description of the things the Spirit does in our life. It is the testimony of a controlled life, not by us, but by the Spirit. "But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law." (NLT)

The Spirit does an extreme makeover within us. He transforms us. Remember the old you? You know, the one who lacks patience when the person in the checkout line needs to go back and get a price check. Remember how impatient you were? Or, how about the time when you lost all control and you blasted away at your spouse, kids, co-worker, parent, or friend because you were controlled by you, not the Spirit?

The spiritual walk gets tiresome and at times, we are totally depleted of energy. This is why I say all the time, “the best time to get dressed is before we ever get out of the bed.” If we leave the bed spiritually undressed, we leave vulnerable and an easy target for the flesh to take over. However, if we leave the bed spiritually dressed, then the Spirit is fully engaged and prepared to get us through that days walk.

Remember, Be God, Jesus, and Spirit Controlled!

Brian

An Encouraging Place

2010-07-22T11:07:00.004-04:00

We have a dog named Sox. Well, my wife has a dog named Sox! Sox is a tiny toy poodle. He is black with some white on his feet and under his chin. Like most dogs, Sox really gets sad when we leave the house and he has to stay home. Most of the time, he will crawl under the table and pout as we make our exit. At times, it is hard to leave him, because it’s like leaving one of our kids. Actually, it might be better to take Sox and leave our kids!!!!

Sox doesn’t pout for long. He will sit on the top of the couch and look out the window until he sees the car turning into the driveway. Sox runs to the door and starts jumping up and down. He barks and jumps and barks and jumps. He has the happiest look on his face. When we open the door, he goes straight for Sondra and jumps and barks. Sondra picks him up and he licks and licks and licks! It is a wonderful celebration for our dog, Sox.

I love our church gatherings because it is a time of celebrating our spiritual relationship with each other. We hug. Laugh. Sing. Pray. And, love! The church gatherings renew our spiritual life, strengthens our relationships, and gives us the opportunity to put into practice Hebrews 10:24, which says, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” (NLT)

When I was a kid growing up in St. Louis, the preachers would pound on the pulpits and scold those who did not put into practice Hebrews 10:25, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (KJV) Preachers and elders would put a guilt trip on us if we even thought about missing a church gathering. However, Hebrews 10:25 isn’t talking about the sin of missing the church gatherings, but rather, the missed opportunity of encouraging one another so they would be prepared for the coming of Jesus.

Our church gatherings must be a place of encouragement, love, grace, hope, freedom, and laughter. A place of celebrating our relationship with God and one another. A place of joy, and peace. A place where there is opportunity to grow spiritually and be feed the Word of God. A place where everyone knows our name! A place where we get the taste of heaven so much that we want more and more of it until we actually move there!

Our church gatherings should not be a place of strict traditions, but a place where God is worshipped, praised, and glorified. A place where Christ is the centerpiece of our lives and where the Spirit in moving within us to empower us to be the encouragers to one another.

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

Uninterrupted Conversation!

2010-07-15T09:51:00.000-04:00

Vacations are supposed to be a time to relax and get away from all the “stresses” of life. Recently, I spent several hours on the beach by myself. It was one of the most relaxing times for me in a long time. I walked for several miles along the waters edge. My thoughts were as mute as my words. No one needed me. No schedule to keep. No bills to pay. Nothing. I was completely alone. Until….

Until I looked around and saw kids building sand castles, men and women getting sun tans, young boys with huge fishing poles casting out into the ocean, lovers holding hands as they walked, birds flying overheard looking for their next meal. People everywhere. Noise. The crashing waves. The sounds of boats and airplanes. I wasn’t alone, not for one minute. However…

However, I was able to put all the noise and people out of my mind. I was alone again. No noise, no people, no fisherman, nor boats; just me! I went to a place in my mind that only God and I could hear and know. It was peaceful. Joyful. Uninterrupted conversation.

Jesus on many occasions went to places where he could have uninterrupted conversations with his Father. They were deep conversations about spiritual matters. After all, Jesus was all about living up to the much-needed spiritual standards that were in contrast to what “religious” folks thought were the norm of the day.

Jesus spent much time in solitude. He got a way from all the hectic parts of life, people, and demands. Jesus disciplined himself in the routine of solitude so much that it became an integral part of his ministry.

As Jesus begins his ministry, he immediately goes into the desert alone (Matthew 4:1-4). Before Jesus chose his Apostles in Luke 6, he was alone all night praying. Before he went to his death, he sought alone time with his Father (Mark 14:32-36).

Developing the discipline of solitude takes work and time. However, it is a spiritual must for every believer. Maybe you remember the commercial several years ago that said: Calgon, take me away! We need time alone to refresh ourselves spiritually, mentally, and relationally. Teresa of Avila said, “Settle yourself in solitude and you will come upon Him in yourself.” Solitude is an opportunity to be in the presence of God, not in His absence, nor anyone else. Solitude gives us uninterrupted conversation with our Father!

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

I'm Suffering, Why Me?

2010-04-29T09:53:00.000-04:00

God knows you by name. He hears you loud and clear. He is aware of where you are and what you are doing with your life. Life can be harsh and demanding. Suffering seems long and drawn out. Questions are asked: Why do I suffer? How long is this suffering going to last? What did I do to deserve this suffering?

We suffer in a variety of ways: Physical. Emotional. Financial. Relational. And, spiritual. At times, there is no explanation to the madness. Peter said, “Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.” 1 Peter 4:12-13 (The Message)

At times, it is very clear as to why we suffer. For some, suffering is the consequence of bad choices. The suffering one experiences was not brought on because God hates or takes great joy in seeing His children suffer. One suffers because of sinfulness. When we go against God’s best for us, the results are not good. Does that mean God doesn’t love us? Not at all! However, Galatians 6:7 says, “A man reaps what he sows.”

Many have asked me, why do “I” suffer when I try my best. I read my bible. I attend “church”. I give to charities. I help my neighbor. I am a good moral and spiritual person. So, why do I suffer? Peter says, “…But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.” 1 Peter 2:20b. Also, in 1 Peter 3:17 he says, “It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.” Doing right isn’t always a smooth ride. There are many examples throughout Scripture where the folks were doing right, but went through a very trying time of suffering: Sharach, Meshach, and Abednego suffering – Daniel 3. The Apostles suffering – Acts 5. Paul’s suffering – 2 Corinthians 11:23-33. Jesus suffering – Mark14-15.

The way we respond to sufferings is critical. We might have the tendency to play the “blame” game. Or, we simply whine to God for “allowing” sufferings that we don’t deserve. In the moments of suffering, it is difficult and is demanding of our attention. But know that God is very aware of you. God said in Isaiah 43:3 (The Message), “Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're mine. When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you. When you're in rough waters, you will not go down. When you're between a rock and a hard place, it won't be a dead end—Because I am God, your personal God….” Jesus said, in John 14:1, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.” God loves you deeply and forever!

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

Reluctance (Part Two)

2010-04-21T10:29:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been asked or even told to do something but you were reluctant to do it? If yes, why? It might be that we are reluctant for fear that we will fail. Maybe we lack confidence. Or, maybe we don’t want to work with certain people because of past issues. There are a variety of reasons why we are reluctant to take on a new job, begin a new relationship, start a conversation, teach a class, share our faith, say no, say yes, go on a date, ride in an airplane. Whatever the reason, being reluctant is crippling.

Jonah of the Old Testament had to deal with his own reluctant issues. Jonah was given a task by God to go to a city called Nineveh to preach against it because of the wickedness of the people. (Jonah 1:1-2)

Just who are these people God is sending Jonah to talk to about their wicked behavior? They were bad! I mean, bad. It was their policy to never keep their prisoner of war alive. While holding the victim down, they would pull out their tongue. For some, they would skin their victims alive. They would take the human skulls of their prisoners and build pyramids outside of the conquered city.

I can’t say emphatically that I would be jumping for joy to get the assignment to go and preach against the wickedness of the Ninevite regime. I can see why Jonah was so reluctant; his life is in jeopardy. Also, Jonah as a prophet knew the kind of God he serves and if they turn away from their wicked ways, God would demonstrate his grace and mercy for them. At this point, Jonah was struggling with Nineveh getting one ounce of God’s grace and mercy.

Because of Jonah’s reluctance, the Scripture says, “Jonah ran away from the Lord….” (Jonah 1:3) One of the key strategies of a reluctant person is to run away from the problem, issue, relationship, or whatever the circumstances are in order to avoid facing the problem that has a grip on them.

For many believers in Christ, there is a reluctance to teach for fear they do not know enough. There is a fear to share their faith, for fear they will get rejected. There is a fear to speak in a public gathering for fear they will not know what to say or forget what they want to say. There are a variety of reluctant reasons people have for not getting more involved in the different aspects of the church ministries.

I am reluctant to climb a ladder because I am afraid of heights. However, in order for me to over come my fear, I have to face it head on. The more we do, the less reluctant we are about doing it and the more confident we become in our relationships, speaking, teaching, sharing our faith, or whatever we have been reluctant about.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Reluctance

2010-04-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

“There’s Junior’s alarm, his mother thought to herself, but I don’t hear him moving around in his room. I don’t know what has gotten into that boy.

A few minutes later, the alarm sounded again and again and again. Junior was punching the snooze button. Finally, mother busted into his room and took charge. Son, it’s time for you to get up! Two bleary eyes peeked out from under the covers. Give me three reasons, Junior said.

#1. It’s Sunday and you need to get dressed for church
#2. You’re 42 years old and you ought to know better
#3. You’re the PREACHER!

Reluctance is crippling. It keeps us wanting to hit the snooze button instead of taking on the challenges that are ahead of us. Reluctance is unwillingness or a lack of enthusiasm to take on a task.

What is the driving force behind reluctance? Fear? Apathy? Trust? Lack of Giftedness?

One of the responsibilities of believers is to share the gospel of Jesus to others? Growing up, I listened to preacher’s pound the pulpits in disgust over the fact that many are reluctant to share the Good News of Jesus. I often wondered why? I would asked myself, If it was such Good News, then why would anyone be reluctant to share it? I still have the same question today as I did as a young boy.

Roman’s 10:13-15 says, “Everyone who calls, 'Help, God!' gets help." But how can people call for help if they don't know who to trust? And how can they know who to trust if they haven't heard of the One who can be trusted? And how can they hear if nobody tells them? And how is anyone going to tell them, unless someone is sent to do it? “ (Message)
A believer in Christ has a responsibility to share Christ to the world. Paul says in
2 Corinthians 5:20 that we are Christ ambassadors. This means that we are a representative of Christ. Jesus told the disciples in Matthew 28 to “go and make disciples….” Disciples make disciples make disciples. We have the same calling and responsibility today. Don’t be reluctant to share the Good News of Jesus. Step out of the comfort zone and trust God that He will lead you every step of the way.

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

The Last 24 Hours

2010-04-01T09:46:00.002-04:00

Careless disciples! Judas, what were you thinking when you sold out Jesus for a meager ten plus grand? Peter, you told Jesus that even if everyone else ditches you, I would always be there for you! Peter, you said that even if you have to die with Jesus, you would never disown him. Why didn’t you keep your word? Does friendship mean anything to any of you? Didn’t you know the truth about Jesus? After three years, doesn’t loyalty to a friend trump selfishness? Financial gain? Your own hide?

I often read Marks account of Jesus’ last 24 hours of life. I am saddened at the lack of support Jesus had from his own disciples. They couldn’t even stay awake to pray with him in his final hours. They seem to have had an identity crisis in friendship…“I don’t know this man….” As painful as it is to read, the story doesn’t end in Mark 14. As disheartening as it is to read about Judas and Peter, Paul Harvey’s words ring loud and clear: “now the rest of the story.”

It wasn’t just Jesus’ disciples who were so disappointing; it was other “religious” leaders as well. Can you imagine “religious” leaders lying? How about “religious” leaders spitting in the face of another person? Or, taking their fist while blindfolding Jesus and punching him and then asking Jesus to prophesy! I suspect that Jesus knew exactly who hit him. The so called “religious” leaders didn’t stop at physical abuse, they persuaded Pilate to keep a custom of releasing a prisoner, but it wasn’t going to be Jesus that they would release that day, it was going to be a man who had committed actual murder. A criminal set free! Jesus is sentenced to die!

Jesus’ death was cruel and unusual punishment by our standards today. The entire death scene was a circus show. Hate filled the air. Anger overshadowed sanity. People swarming to the scene to get a good look at the one they called: The King of the Jews! A mother crying for her baby boy. Followers in shock to see the man called Jesus being nailed to planks of wood called a cross!

Finally it happened. The crowd silenced. No more insults. No more lies. No more worries about Jesus. He is dead! It appears that Satan got the upper hand. Mean-spirited men robbed the world of Hope. Freedom. Joy. Compassion. Grace. Teacher. The Son of God! Or, did they?

Mark tells us in chapter 16 that a couple of women went to the tomb early Sunday morning to anoint Jesus’ body with spices. I often wondered how the ladies were going to move the boulder that blocked the entrance of the tomb. But, as it turns out, they didn’t need to worry about it because someone had already moved it! They entered the tomb and to their surprise Jesus was gone. He has risen! He is alive! “Go tell the disciples!" Yes! Yes! YES! Jesus is alive!

The Jesus story is about the Son of God demonstrating his own love for us, that while we are rotten to the core, sinful in every way, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) In Romans 6 we are told, “when we are baptized into Christ, we were baptized into his death. We are buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Jesus demonstrated the authenticity of love and obedience to his Father. It is because of Jesus’ commitment to us to restore our relationship with God that we now have access to the Father as well. The Jesus story is one of unconditional love. Compassion. Grace. Mercy. And, forgiveness.

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

Forgiven

2010-03-31T18:21:00.001-04:00

Has someone tried to interfere with a promotion or advancement in your company that you deserved? Has someone spread unkind rumors about you? Have you been wronged by someone in a business deal? What kind of person are you when these kinds of things happen to you?
• Vindictive
• Unkind
• Slanderous
• Insulting
• Abusive
• Cruel
• Malicious

All of these describe the spirit of the men and women inMark 14 and 15. These two chapters depict a story of hateful rage toward one man. His name? Jesus. What did he do to deserve a beating? Nothing! What did he do to deserve cruel and inhumane treatment? Nothing! What did he do to deserve spit in his face, a crown of thorns on his head, nails driven into his body and the lashes of jagged pieces of metal or bone at the end of a whip on his back? Nothing! What did he do to deserve death? Nothing!
It is God's way!

How would any of us have responded? Maybe we would have responded somewhat like the little girl in the following story: A little girl was being punished by eating alone in the corner of the dining room. The family paid no attention to her until they heard her pray: "I thank Thee, Lord, for preparing a table before me in the presence of mine enemies." While the story of the little girl's prayer is cute, it reminds us of a deeper truth: many times, we cannot see past our enemies.

When someone does us wrong, we have the tendency to strike back and try to get revenge and make them pay. But let's remember Jesus' response to his cruel and vindictive enemies: "Father, forgive these people, because they don't know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)

You see, forgiveness is often not in our human way of dealing with wrongs; but thankfully, it is God's way. The Bible tells us, "But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong." (1 John 1:9 NLT) Jesus is the designer of forgiveness and he gives us — his "enemies" — one special thing to think about before he gives up his spirit and dies. Forgiven!

When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, no one is likely to die for a good person, though someone might be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's judgment. For since we were restored to friendship with God by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be delivered from eternal punishment by his life.

So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God—all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God. (Romans 5:6-11)

Me? Forgiven? Yes! Forgiven!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

The Face and Voice of HIV Positive

2010-03-11T10:51:00.000-05:00

Aiken Church, Brian speaking: His voice was calm, but a little shaken. “Hi, my name is Terry. I have just gotten out of the hospital and am trying to get back to L.A.” He continues, “I am a Christian and have turned my life around. You see, I went to Baltimore to try to make amends with my family, but it didn’t work out.” His voice got softer and more timid, he continues, “I have HIV, full blown aids. I have about five months to live. I turned my life over to God about six months ago and have never felt more free in all my life. I have learned about the grace and mercy of God from my new spiritual family. I thought that if I went to Baltimore, I would get the same treatment from them. It wasn’t the same. My dad walked out of the room and never said another word to me. I left the house and caught a ride with a person who was traveling to your town.” He paused and let out a sigh. “I need help. A friend of mine in L.A. is sending me a bus ticket by mail and it will arrive tomorrow. I need a place to stay for another night and some food to eat. Can you help me?”

My first thought was about my brother, Keith. He died several years ago with full-blown aids. Terry’s voice was heart wrenching to my soul. His story brought back memories of my own brother. The way Terry’s father and my own father treated each son, was drastically different. Terry will die alone. No mom or dad at his bedside. No brothers or sisters praying. No family member to hold his hand or to sit with him in his last days.

I thought again, how would my dad respond to this man, Terry? With compassion? YES! With mercy? YES! With grace? Yes! Yes, yes, yes! I decided to do something. I told Terry I would meet him at the motel. He said, “I am in room 108. I went and there I found a man whose face was dented in. His body frail. His voice weak. His days numbered. I saw my brother all over again. What do I do? What can I do? What would Jesus do? What would my dad do?

I sat in a chair next to the door and Terry sat on the end of his bed. He said, “I was one of the biggest advocates for homosexual rights. I marched, protested, and believed that I was living the life God made me out to be. I hooked up with a man that never told me that he was HIV positive. Now, I have it too. Five months is all the doctor is giving me. I gave my life to Christ and now I am preparing to die…alone. Can you help me?”

What would Jesus do? Jesus said in Matthew 25 that when we give food, water, or clothing to the least…we also gives it to Him. I thought, food, water, and clothing is the easy part, but what about being alone, who is going to be there for him? David said in Psalm 23 that God leads me. Restores me. Guides me. Walks with me. Comforts me. Prepares for me. Anoints me. And, dwells with me.

Terry will never be alone. God is right there with him through life, death, and life again. I left the motel room knowing that God is truly leading the way for Terry just like he did for my brother, Keith!

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

I Love You!

2010-02-11T09:57:00.001-05:00

In the nearly 200 different world languages, every one of them says, I love you: CHINESE (MANDARIN) 我爱你 (wo ai ni),
FRENCH je t'aime, GERMAN ich liebe Dich, HAWAIAN aloha wau iā ‘oe,
HEBREW ani ohev otakh (man to woman) ani ohevet otkha (woman to man)

No matter the way “I love you” is said in another language, the meaning is the same: I care. I value you. I appreciate you. I desire you. We express our “I love you” with a kiss. A hug. Holding hands. Sending flowers. Being gentle. “I love you” is said at the end of phone conversations, written in cards or letters, before someone departs, when we wake up or getting ready to go to sleep.

There are many different types of love: Puppy love is a temporary crush we have for someone. Romantic love demonstrates passion, attraction, and caring for your partner. Unconditional love says. “I love you” no matter what. No strings attached. Brotherly love demonstrates our love for our community and neighbors because they are like a family Tough love says to someone doing wrong: “I am taking this action only because it will help you and because ‘I love you.’”

Of all the types of love, God love is the most amazing and sustaining. No matter what we do, say, or think, God loves us. No matter how we treat one another or even Him, he still loves us. God loves us for who we are, not what we do! It is true that God wants all of us to put our BEST foot forward. God wants us to study Scripture, tell the truth, be godly, act right, be honest, and love people unconditionally. But, when we are not at our BEST, He is! God’s love is truly amazing!

God says I love you by redeeming us. Redeeming means to free someone from a burden; which in our case is sin! God took extreme measures to redeem us by giving us His son Jesus. John 3:16, “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son….” David said in Psalm 103, “God is sheer mercy and grace; not easily angered, he's rich in love. He doesn't endlessly nag and scold, nor hold grudges forever. He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve, nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.”
(The Message) 1 John 1:9 says “if we confess our sins, he is faithful to forgive (REDEEM) us.” While God in the redeeming business, he is also in the business of removing our sins from His memory bank, too. Isaiah 43:25, “I—yes, I alone—will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again.

God also says “I love you” by the Sunsets and sunrise. By, the crashing waves of the ocean. By the snow tip mountains. By the blooming of the flowers and the budding of the trees. God says “I love you” in every language and in every moment of life!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

God's Phone Number

2010-02-04T10:37:00.001-05:00

A Preacher’s Prayer: “Lord, fill my mouth with worthwhile stuff, and nudge me when I’ve said enough.”

A little girl’s Prayer: The little girl was being punished by making her eat by herself in the corner of the room, the family paid no attention to her until they heard her pray: “I thank Thee, Lord, for preparing a table before me in the presence of mine enemies.”

A little boy’s Prayer: On a hot summer day they had guest for dinner, the mother asked her four year old son to say the prayer. “But, mom, I don’t know what to say,” he said. Just say to the Lord what you’ve heard me say,” she told him. The little boy bowed his little head and said, “oh, Lord, why did I invite those people here on a hot day like this?”

God is always aware of us. Scripture says that God will never leave us. One day, as I was reading in the book of Jeremiah, I discovered that God has a direct line for everyone that wants to talk to him. I call it God’s phone number. It is JER-333 – Jeremiah 33:3, which says, “Call to me and I will answer you. I'll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.”(The Message)

Prayer has always be a big resource in my life. However, there are times that for some reason or another, my prayer life would take a hit and I would be self-absorbed and not talk to God as much. Maybe you have heard the phrase: “Seven Prayerless Days Makes One Weak.” It is true! We are the weakest and most vulnerable when we are not calling God. Someone said, “He who is a stranger to prayer is a stranger to power!”

A Sunday school teacher asked her students, what is prayer? One student replied, “That is a message sent to God at night and on Sundays when the rates are lower.” As funny as this sounds, it is simply not true. God is always available. 24/7. Toll Free. No drop lines. No dead zones. No call waiting. No pressing 1, 2, or 3 to get God…He is always the one to answer. Proverbs 15:29, “The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayers of the righteous.”

One teenager’s view of prayer: “God answers prayer four ways: yes, no, wait awhile, or, you’ve got to be kidding!” I laugh at this, but in every situation, God answers no matter the request. We may not like how He does it, when He does it, or what He decides to do, but He will answer you. God is in the knowing us business and will do what is BEST for us. Trust Him. Talk to Him. Be Faithful to Him. Pray often and then pray some more.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

2009-11-11T11:15:00.000-05:00

Spiritual Recyclers

There is only so much one can here about Global warming. Save the plant. Go green. We hear about the holes in the ozone layers. Pollution in the air. Melting of the ice. We are constantly told to recycle plastic, paper, aluminum, glass, batteries, computer parts and so much more.

God has given us this planet to use, not abuse. I agree that we need to take care of our planet so that our future children will have a good environment to enjoy. We need to be responsible for picking up trash, recycling, and keeping the air clean. Every one of us can do our part so that we have a clean and safe planet.

While taking care of our environment is important, it is of the utmost importance that Jesus followers are continually recycling spiritual behaviors that will bring about a godly and spiritual church and world environment.

While I may have little or no influence on global warming regulations or getting factories to stop putting out pollution in our air, I do have a tremendous amount of influence with those I am around by the way that I conduct myself as a Christ follower.

The world at large needs Christ followers who are committed to spiritual recycling. To demonstrate behaviors that is godly, holy, and helpful for others to see Christ in our lives. Here is a list of vitally important spiritual behaviors that need to be a constant in our spiritual recycle bins:

1. Be positive – Philippians 2:14 says to do everything without arguing or complaining.
2. Be a builder – Ephesians 4:29 says to build up others according to their needs.
3. Be kind – Galatians 5:22 says that kindness is a bi-product of a Spirit controlled life.
4. Be friendly – 1 Peter 4:9 says to offer up hospitality.
5. Be lovers – 1 Peter 1:22 says to love deeply from the heart.

These are just some of the spiritual characteristics that must be recycled daily so that the world will know that we are truly Christ follower. Our love for God, Jesus, and Spirit will compel us to be constantly aware of what we are to keep in our spiritual recycle bins. When we make it a habit to be filled with God-stuff, then our world with be a much better place to live.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

What God Offers that the World Doesn't

2009-07-30T10:30:00.001-04:00

What God Offers That the World Doesn’t

From nursery school onward we are taught how to succeed and make it in society. The early bird gets the worm. No pain, no gain. There is no such thing as a free lunch.
Demand your rights. Get what you pay for. I want people to get what they deserve – nothing more, nothing less. It’s ALL about ME!

The world places value on material. Not so for the pursuer of righteousness. The Christian places value on spiritual matters. They hunger and thirst for right living, They see kingdom seeking as an opportunity to be a witness for Christ. They engage themselves in the spirit of God and allow the Spirit to engage, equip, and empower them. They make it about Him and not about themselves!

While the world says make it about ME…God says I am going to make it about YOU and ME. Romans 5:8 says that God demonstrated His love for us…while WE were still sinners, His Son died for US! God says, I love you deeply and forever. I want a relationship with YOU! WE really deserve death, but He gave us mercy! WE really deserved punishment, but he gave us forgiveness! We really deserved wrath, but He gave us grace! We really deserved prison, but He gave us a pardon!

God offers hope. Life. Joy. Peace. Rest. Compassion. Understanding. Patience. Caring. And, buckets full of love! The world offers a limited timeshare to happiness and material wealth. It gets redistributed and it never leaves the compound of earth. We purchase deadbolts for our houses and alarms for our cars just to protect the very things that will not last. As I have said many times: “I have never seen a hearse pull a U-Haul yet.” Jesus said in Matthew 6:19-21 “Don't hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it's safe from moth and rust and burglars. It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.” (The Message)

As expensive as the material stuff that we have accumulated over years is, are spiritual life is priceless and eternal. God’s offer is not for sale, it is given freely to all who accepts. God’s offer is not a sales pitch, nor is it cheap. God is always honest and transparent. Isn’t the spiritual life worth accumulating?

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian McCutchen

Satan Screen

2009-07-09T09:23:00.002-04:00

Satan-Screen

Spending a week at the beach is my kind of vacation. There is nothing like sitting on the beach in the evening and listening to the waves crash onto the shore. It is a relaxing feeling that I do not get anywhere else.

During the day, the beach is full of swimmers, surfer wannabe’s, castle builders, beach walkers, and then there are those who just can’t get tan enough soaping themselves down in tanning lotion just hoping to get that right skin tone. For me, it was throwing the football with Roman, covering Tessa from neck to toe in sand, and walking along the beach with Sondra. It was total serenity! No thought about writing this article, preaching a sermon, or teaching a class. It was heaven on earth…UNTIL we left the beach and began to dry off and noticed how red my legs were. Apparently, I have not given my legs the opportunity to explore the outside world and discover the glory of the sun. Furthermore, I did not give my legs the needed care of sunscreen to protect them from the suns brutal attack. It was not the suns fault. The sun was only doing what the sun is supposed to do…SHINE!

Protection is vitally important, not only for beach bums like me, but also in our spiritual life. Spiritual protection is a necessity to keep us from being “burned” by satanic attacks. While I have learned the valuable lessons of sunscreen, I have also learned the valuable lessons of spiritual protection. I have said many times that the best time to get dressed is before we ever get out of the bed. Spiritually speaking, we need “Satan-screen” to prevent us from being spiritually burned by Satan’s attacks.

Ephesians 6:11 says to put on the FULL armor of God so that we can take our stand against the devils schemes. Notice it does not say, put on partial, or just the helmet, but all of it. If I only protect my heart from being harmed and not my head, then I become vulnerable to wrong and twisted thinking that can lead me to wrong decision making. Just like sunscreen, if I only put it on my arms and face, but not my legs, I only set my legs up to be burned.

The next time I go to the beach, I will make sure I have a FULL bottle of sunscreen and the next time I get ready to get out of bed, I will get spiritually dressed by praying for protection for my decisions, my attitude, the places I go, and the responses I give to people. I will read the Bible to guide me in right living, and I will not hinder the Spirit to do what the Spirit is supposed to do in my life…PROTECT ME!

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

Love + Obedience=God Honoring

2009-06-30T09:44:00.001-04:00

Love + Obedience=God Honoring

During the 2004 Summer Olympics In Athens, Greece, at the Dora Stratou Theatre located near the Acropolis, the site of the Greek Parthenon; there was a sponsored event by True Love Waits that would help teens understand obedience to themselves, their dates, and to God. This event challenged teens to remain sexually pure until they get married. Over 450,000 teens from all over the world pledged to be obedient to this statement: "Believing that true love waits, I make a commitment to God, myself, my family, my friends, my future mate, and my future children to a lifetime of purity including sexual abstinence from this day until the day I enter a biblical marriage relationship."

Not only will “true love wait,” but true love for God will obey. Love is the driving force that will prompt us, motivate us, and give us the desire to be a Christ follower. Here me out: We do not obey to earn my salvation or get credit for right living. Obeying God does not save anyone. Jesus does the saving. However, obedience does demonstrate my love and thankfulness for all God has done for me without me ever asking.

Jesus said in John 14:21, "The person who knows my commandments and keeps them, that's who loves me. And the person who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and make myself plain to him."

Believers who are committed to living out God’s Word do so because of the sacrificial giving of God. The level of love for God varies from person to person. The more we get to know God, the more our love will deepen and our desire to live out our faith obediently, rather than a “have to” mentality.

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-18T19:06:00.001-04:00

I am grateful for the man (father) who desires to seek God first, love his wife, and be a role model for his children. It is not the sports, movie, or singing stars that is supposed to influence a child to do right (though it is good) but rather, the father who lives in the home.

God is so proud of you! Thank you for having your spiritual priorities right. Thank you for attempting to live right. Thank you for modeling godliness, integrity, and good morals.

The man that will get into the arena and at least try will not only benefit himself, but all of those who are watching. President Roosevelt said it best

"It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by the dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions and spends himself in a worthy course; who at the best, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who, at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly; so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory or defeat."

May your life continue to be a devotion that will leave a lasting legacy of your life and impact those who have watched you in the arena. Happy Father’s Day!

Spiritual Work Week

2009-06-12T18:45:00.003-04:00

Spiritual Work Week

I want you to know that our life does not consist of working our way to heaven, but rather being invited in because of the grace of God.

I bear fruit in my life because I love God. I do not do “works” in my Christian life because I am afraid that God will send me to hell. I do “works” in my Christian life because I am grateful for the grace, mercy, and forgiveness He has “freely” given me!!!! God will not keep the doors of heaven shut and prevent anyone from coming in if we do not keep a 40 hour spiritual work week. Those who “love” God will always be a light. Forgive often. Tell the Good News! Be committed to discipleship. Love unconditionally. Accept people for who they are. Heavens doors are wide open for anyone who accepts the gifts God has given.

It is not our job to be the keeper of the gate and determine who is faithful and who will get heaven. It is our privilege to tell the powerful news of Jesus and share our testimony of what He has done in our lives.

Chuck Swindoll is a premier religious writer and an excellent speaker. Chuck gives some very good principles on bearing fruit when he/she is connected to God. Now, read what Chuck Swindoll has to say:

Just before His death and resurrection, Jesus revealed that the secret of growing God's fruit is in being at home with Him. That's the true definition of the familiar word abide. This is how Jesus describes what that means in John 15:5: "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing."

Spiritual fruit is not the result of self-effort. You grow more of God's fruit not when you try harder, but when you stay connected to the Source. When you abide in Christ, you invite Him to live with you each day and reproduce His character in you. God's character at work in you looks like:

LOVE: This is God's agape, love that selflessly seeks the highest good of the other person.

JOY: Joy as a fruit of the Spirit is a settled confidence because God controls the details of your life, you can trust Him in any circumstance

PEACE: The unshakable, inner calm you experience when your mind and heart are at rest because you are trusting fully in Christ.

PATIENCE: A fruit of the Spirit that means to be "long-tempered," the opposite of short-fused irritability.

KINDNESS: The Spirit's fruit that braids mercy and grace, humility and gentleness all together.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Recovery Works Ministry

2009-06-01T09:26:00.001-04:00

Recovery Works

Each month, I will highlight a specific ministry and the value and impact is has upon those involved. Flint and Marilyn Thomas have worked hard to begin a recovery program that is geared towards helping those who have addictive behaviors. This work is vitally important for the recovery of those struggling with addiction. Recovery Works is a faith-based program. The men study the bible, pray, and have deep discussions about their personal faith.

What is Recovery Works?

Recovery Works is a residential recovery facility for alcohol and drug addiction that helps men grow from a troubled life of addiction into a productive, reasonably happy and serene life in the real world.

Recovery Works is a 12-step program. This ministry involves a structured, disciplined lifestyle that includes early rising, cleanliness, and learning to accept responsibility for one’s actions. It is a nonprofit, faith-based, long-term program. Each resident is required to stay for six to twelve months.

At Recovery Works we recognize that only a power greater than ourselves can change the course of our lives. In order to steer our lives in that direction, a decision must be made to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God, as we understand him.

What Are the Residence Saying?

“Without Recovery Works I would have ended my life.”

“I believe that God created this program so that this program could bring me back to God.”

“Recovery Works teaches me how to be responsible and acceptable. It is definitely God-inspired.”

“I am grateful that this program was available for me so that I could learn a new way to live and raise my child properly.”

If you would like to support this work in anyway, please contact Flint @ 803-522-4602. I am grateful to Flint and Marilyn for having the faith to believe that God can, the vision to see that God will, and the courage to act!

Remember, Be God Controlled,

Brian

Defending Our Nation

2009-05-19T17:29:00.000-04:00

Defending Our Nation

Our nation celebrates, morns, and remembers the fallen of our military this weekend. As a Veteran of the U.S. Army, I have a profound respect for every person who has put on the uniform of the United States of America military. So often, people question whether or not it is right to go to war. Protesters line the streets of our cities to protest and make answer the question: Is war ever right. I, too, ask the same question....

Is war ever right?

Ecclesiastes 3:8 Solomon said, "There is a time for war and a time for peace." Sometimes war is the right thing. There are examples in the Bible where God commanded a war. When you look at the great heroes of the faith in Hebrews 11 there are a number of great leaders who stood out during a time of war: Joshua, David, Gideon, and Samson. Throughout the Old Testament, there were times in which was the only option or a God directive. Today, our nation is fighting two wars: Iraq and Afghanistan. Call the war whatever you want to, but in these times, we must pray for peace and for the freedom of millions. Also, we must pray for the protection of our troops, the Iraq and Afghan governments, and the citizens of those nations.

If war is right, when is the right time for war?

#1. To liberate a nation from dictatorship: God told Joshua to wipe out the Midianites, because they were very oppressive and evil. One of the evil practices they did was to throw babies into the fire.

In Numbers 32, God got very upset the Gadites and Reubenites tribes in Israel because they would not go to war. Moses says to these two tribes, "What are you going to do? Just sit here while the rest of your brothers go to war? Aren't you going to participate?" God became very anger and swore an oath: “Because they have not followed me wholeheartedly, not one of the men twenty years old or more who came up out of Egypt will see the land I promised Abraham.” Numbers 32:10b-11

#2. To defend innocent people: John Stewart Mills said, “A man who has nothing which he is willing to fight for, nothing which he cares about more than his personal safety, is a miserable creature who has no chance of being free.” Proverbs 21:15 “When justice is done it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.”

3. To stop the spread of evil: The Bible is very clear that God has authorized the government to enforce the law and punish offenders. Romans 13:4 “...He is God's servant, an agent of justice to bring punishment on the wrongdoers."