Family Feud

One of my favorite shows to watch is a game show called, Family Feud.  The game pins families against each other in order to have a chance to play for $20,000.  Players have to figure out how one hundred people surveyed would answer a specific question.  If a player gets an answer wrong, he/she receives a strike.  If the family as a whole gets three strikes, the other family has a chance to steal and win the points if they get it right.  If they get it wrong, the points are awarded to the original family.  The feud goes back and forth until a family scores three hundred points. 

Family Feud is a fun game show to watch, but in real life, family feuds are miserable.  Hurtful. Painful.  And, harmful.  It rips apart relationships and destroys the unity in which God so desperately desires for every one of his children. 

Family feuds derive from a selfishness that lies deep within the heart of those feuding.  James says it best when he writes, “Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves.”  James 4:1 (MSG) The unity of a family cannot exist unless everyone in the family is willing to lay aside his or her selfish opinions and be willing to be open-minded to what the others are feeling and saying. 

One of the most heated arguments in Scripture is when the Apostle Paul and his good friend Barnabas got into a feud over Barnabas wanting his cousin, John to go on the trip with them.  Paul was adamantly opposed due to John leaving him on another trip.  Acts 15 records their conversation: After a few days of this, Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit all our friends in each of the towns where we preached the Word of God. Let’s see how they’re doing.”  Barnabas wanted to take John along, the John nicknamed Mark. But Paul wouldn’t have him; he wasn’t about to take along a quitter who, as soon as the going got tough, had jumped ship on them in Pamphylia. Tempers flared, and they ended up going their separate ways: Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus; Paul chose Silas and, offered up by their friends to the grace of the Master, went to Syria and Cilicia to build up muscle and sinew in those congregations. (MSG)  Though the argument was heated, it never distracted from the ministry as a whole, there was no disruption in the family of God, and Paul and Barnabas never allowed their disagreements to become so bitter that it put a negative mark on Jesus’ church. 

Christ church must be a place where unity exists without waver and the spirit of unconditional love permeates the hearts of every believer.  The Psalmist said, “How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live in harmony!” Psalm 133:1 (TLB) Family feuds will subside when love leads the way and records are destroyed and where patience keeps company with kindness and demands are not made out of the desire to control. 

If the family of God loves, they will always root for the best in each other.   For the feuding to stop, loyalty to the family must be a priority even when disagreements arise.  For the family to feel safe around each other, a protecting love must be known among God’s people no matter what. 

God is calling each of us to love without reserve.  Jesus said to forgive.  The Spirit will enable each of us to be kind, gentle and good to one another.  Let it be said that Jesus’ church loves, protects, supports and Family Feud is just a game show!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Praying for our Government

Prayer is a powerful resource that enables anyone who prays to connect instantly to the Father.  It is vitally important that we do not take our conversations with God lightly, but rather soberly and deliberately.  Prayer is key to the welfare of our nation.  The bible is clear that we need to pray for those who serve in government. 

Instead of complaining about what we do not like about our President, Congress, Mayors, Sheriffs, and so on, pray for each one of them.  Do not pray that they change the way you think they need to be, rather pray that God will shape them to lead with godly values, moral integrity and character, and ethical standards.

Complaining gets us nowhere fast.  The Apostle Paul told Timothy in the first letter,  “I urge, then, first of all, that request, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone  -  for kings and all those in authority, that we may live in peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 

This section of Scripture illustrates the urgency for all Christians to pray for those in civil authority.  Tertullian said in the Apology, section 39, “We pray for our rulers, for the state of the world, for peace of all things and for the postponement of the end.” 

Justin Martyr writes in Apology 1:14,17 “We worship God alone, but in all other things we gladly serve you, acknowledging kings and rulers of men, and praying that they may be found to have pure reason with kingly power.”

Instead of criticisms, pray.  Instead of hate letters, write with kindness.  I’m not saying to compromise convictions or values, but I am saying that it is God who can do the shaping and changing from the inside out; we have to trust his lead, not ours. 

In 1^st Timothy 2, the Apostle Paul gives four ways to pray for our government.  Doing each of these will demonstrate that we trust that God can and God will help shape, change and leads our government.   

Request  -  The Greek translation deēsis means to pray with a special need in mind.  The people of Paul’s day experienced the persecution of Christians by the emperor Nero.  It was imperative for them to have special prayers for the Christians being persecuted and for the persecutor Nero.

Prayer  -  The Greek translation proseuchē means to exclusively approach God.  The approach to God can be for a variety of reasons:  To ask for help, to ask for forgiveness, or to ask that God will give guidance to those in “authority.”

Intercession  -  The Greek translation enteuxis connotes the idea that one is coming before a king with an appeal for his favor. 

Thanksgiving  -  The Greek translation eucharistia is a celebration and appreciation for what God is doing in our lives and in the lives of our government. 

It is my aim to encourage all of you to pray for all of our government and be a model of kindness, grace, and mercy.  May God continue to bless the United States of America.

Remember, Be God Controlled! 

Brian

Loving God Completely

God is relational.  The entire purpose for God creating us is to have an intimate relationship with each of us.  God desires to know us.  Enjoy us.  Chat with us.  And, love us.  No matter how flawed we are; God doesn’t give up on any of us.  He is always rooting us on to live right, speak right, and love right. 

God has given us abilities to control the most dangerous of creatures, yet we struggle with keeping our tongue in control.  James 3:7-8 declares that, “Men have trained, or can train, every kind of animal or bird that lives and every kind of reptile and fish, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is always ready to pour out its deadly poison.” (TLB) God has enabled us to be creative and gifted, yet we are the most violent, unkind and mean of all that live on the earth.  Genesis 6:5 points out that, “God saw that human evil was out of control. People thought evil, imagined evil—evil, evil, evil from morning to night.” (MSG)  Although we are reckless and arrogant and disobedient, God still wants a relationship with us. 

How can I love God completely?  For starters, Jesus said “you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.”  Loving God completely takes a willingness to know him.  The Apostle Paul prayed for the Philippi Christians that their love would overflow and they keep on growing in their knowledge and understanding.  The more we know about God, the more we fall deeper in love with him.  The Apostle Paul also prayed for the believers in Colossae that they would keep on growing in the knowledge of God. 

It is very important to understand that Christianity isn’t a religion of rules and regulations, rather, it is a relationship one has with the entire God family – God, Jesus and Spirit.  When Christianity is viewed as relational, it will inspire us to want to know more about the one who made our life possible.  We will want to spend the time in conversation with God and we will want to read his love book of grace and hope and mercy.  We will want to spend time in quietness to clear our mind so that we can focus on our relationship with God.

I will love God completely when I trust him.  God is in the relationship to make our lives better.  He will never lie to us, cheat on us or break up with us.  He is in it for the long haul.  Romans 5:8 says that God demonstrated his love for us.  John 3:16 proclaims that God loves us so much he gave us his only Son.  1^st John 4:9 tells us that, “God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him.” (NLT)  We can fully trust God that when he says he loves us, he means it.  He is a gift giver and a God of making sacrifices for all of us, all of the time.  It is much easier to love God when we know that he loves us.  1 John 1:19 says that we love because God first loved us. 

I will love God completely when I surrender to him.  James 4:7 says to submit to God.  Galatians 2:20 says that “my old self has been crucified with Christ, It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”(NLT)  Surrendering to God demonstrates love and respect and a willingness to follow his plans so our love for him is completely honorable, with no hidden motives. 

Remember, Be God Controlled! 

Brian

The Big House

My wife and I had the opportunity to travel to Malibu California and attend the Pepperdine Lectures.  Pepperdine University is nestled on a cliff that overlooks the Pacific Ocean.  The scenery was breathtaking.  Every angle of the campus puts on a spectacular display of beauty. 

After the lectures were over one afternoon, we decided to take a drive around Malibu and into Hollywood.  We drove down Sunset Boulevard and made our way to the homes where the “stars” lived. Each house had their own unique beauty, but they all were big; I mean, huge!  It was enjoyable seeing the homes and how they were architecturally designed from the outside. 

Jesus told his disciples in John 14:2, “There is plenty of room for you in my Father’s home. If that weren’t so, would I have told you that I’m on my way to get a room ready for you?” (MSG) 

Ready?

For me?

Yes, ready for you!  Jesus gave his disciples a house.  Not just any ole house.  He gave them a house with a live in Jesus and God and Spirit and a host of others.  This house has lots of rooms and amenities and it is greatest architecturally designed place ever built. 

This house isn’t just for the disciples, but for all of us.  Jesus said, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NLT) 1^st John 5:11 says,  ^“And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” (NLT) and Ephesians 2:8 declares, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

God wants everyone to live in the house, no exceptions.  The Apostle Peter wrote that God is not a slow promise keeper, he is patient with each of us and he wants all of us to be saved! 1^st Peter 3:9.  The house is being prepared for all believers who are engaged in the Jesus life.  House keys are given to those who are walking and living and speaking and sharing and giving and worshipping and praising and acting godly.  Matthew says it best in 6:33, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” (NLT)  Everything we will we ever need has been put in the house.  God’s list of goods and services for his children are limitless. 

Don’t be troubled by your circumstances, Jesus has prepared a special place that will give you hope and rest and peace and joy and love and comfort.  Keep your eyes peeled on what is to come rather than what isn’t available now.  Keep your focus on what will be given out later, rather than how much money you have in the bank account.  Keep your loyalty to Jesus through the thick and thin of life so that you will enjoy a sit down chat with him in the house he built. 

Trust.  Never waiver on your commitment to serving Jesus.  Always be your best.  Serve others like Jesus.  Be content.  Be Kind.  Be Jesus! 

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian

Suffering Hurts

Suffering is a huge emotional roller coaster.  It drains our mind and energy.  It gives way to solving problems rationally and it is hard to concentrate on daily tasks.  Mostly though, it hurts.  It hurts badly. 

Some of our suffering is due to a death of a loved one, a sick family member, or consequence to a mistake that has been made.  Whatever the suffering, it still hurts.  It cuts us to the very core and fills us will pain of missing someone or it wraps us tightly with regret of a mistake we’ve made.

No matter the type of suffering, God is aware and is on the scene.  He doesn’t jump ship when the going gets rough.  He is patient.  He is kind.  He is grace.  The most important step we must take is TRUST!  Trust God in the journey.  Trust him when you are wrapped with guilt and regret.  Trust him when you are feeling very lonely and missing the person who left this world to be with God or the one that says, I’m done, I want a divorce. 

One of the benefits of being a God child is that knows your 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 

Blessings to Tessa Shea McCutchen

Tessa.  Saying your name for the first time was priceless.  Though we didn’t realize your name spelled backwards was “asset;” you are truly an asset to our family and the world.  Jeremiah 29:11 say, “I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord….” God has   Your ability to stretch yourself, as a friend to others has been inspiring.  Your unquenchable spirit to protect others whom you love has been noted in the pages of our minds.  Your depth of courage and bravery to stand up for those whom you feel are being treated unfairly is a testimony of your loyalty.  And, your unwavering desire to be God’s lady even when you’re challenged with many pressures to do wrong has been another streng
created within you a strong-will, a compassion for others, and a determination that is unyielding.

God has never called you to be perfect; rather he expects your faithfulness.  In your imperfections, seek out the grace and mercy of God to its full extent.  Live out God’s plans of being his imitator (Ephesians 5:1), his grace to others (Matthew 7:12) his sermon (Matthew 5) his servant (Mark 10:45).

May you see clearly the value of the Holy Scriptures and how they will guide your path (Psalm 119:105).  May you use the Holy Spirit fully and without hesitation each day God blesses you to have (2 Timothy 1:14).  And, may you live out the morals that will attract others to see the very Jesus who reigns in you. (Ephesians 4)

Holding you for the first time was a magical moment.  You were a gift from God.  A child that God entrusted us to teach and mold and direct and then open the door for you to walk out so that you can begin to live your life.  Today is not an easy day.  Actually, this day is by far the toughest of them all.  Our once little baby has journeyed all the stages so that she can walk on her own without us to be there for every hurt or hold you when you cry or sit and watch our favorite TV show or tell you to turn off the bathroom light or pick up your clothes or put gas in the car.

You are loved beyond any words that can be written.  The door to our hearts and our house will never be locked to you. You will always be our daughter.  You will always be our baby girl.  The memories of your first eighteen years will be forever etched in our minds.  

Today is your day.  The day you say, I am ready and the day we say, blessings to you in your journey to pursue your education and a life God will reveal to you in his timing. 

I love you deeply and forever!

Love Trumps Hate

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." and Proverbs 3:27 says, "Do not withhold good when it is in your power to act."

This act of kindness and generosity of love from must be the model every believer lives by. 

Be kind.  Be gentle.  Be Jesus!  Everyone needs to see the best side of us all. 

FAITH DOES NOT BELIEVE THAT GOD CAN....  IT KNOWS THAT HE WILL!

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian