Art of Repentance
Neal Thurman
July 31, 2018
It is not a secret that we all sin. So, even the very best of us will be in need of forgiveness from time to time. Forgiveness calls for a genuine measure of repentance. Such repentance is produced by the proper form of sorrow. As the Apostle Paul said, “godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation,” (2 Corinthians 7:10). So, the appropriate attitude toward sin or wrongdoing produces a godly result.
Our need for forgiveness may stem from a variety of reasons. We can sin against God. We can leave God’s commands undone. Our words or deeds could cause harm to others. What will we do in these occasions? How will we respond to learning that forgiveness is needed?
When God asked Adam if he had eaten of the tree of knowledge, Adam chose to blame his wife and God for bringing her to him, (Genesis 3:12). Eve in turn blamed the deceitfulness of the serpent, (Genesis 3:13). Both were cursed by God and driven from His garden. When God asked Cain about Abel, Cain tried to hide what he knew and attempted to shift any responsibility, (Gene-sis 4:9). Aaron constructed the golden calf and led Israel into idolatry and then said to Moses, “Do not let the anger of my lord become hot. You know the people, that they are set on evil,” (Exodus 32:22). Following the exercising of God’s wrath toward Miriam, she and Aaron pleaded with Moses for forgiveness and favor from God, (Number 12:11-12). The prophet Nathan drove the truth of David’s actions home to the king, and David responded with a single statement, “I have sinned against the Lord.” (2 Samul 12:13). The returning prodigal son said, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.” (Luke 15:20)
We can see many different attitudes toward wrongdoing in these examples. Some made excuses and tried to blame others for their sins. Others tried to hide or shift responsibility for what had be done. Only two actually confessed “I have...” as it related to their sin. These two are the only ones who gave a response that was pleasing to God.
We need to stop maneuvering and justifying why we did whatever we have done and simply accept responsibility and humbly ask for forgiveness. God already knows our hearts and thus the why. When seeking forgiveness from a brother, the offering of measured justification greatly diminishes the weight of an apology or request for forgiveness. It is much more powerful with God and others to simply say with all humility, “I have...I am sorry, please forgive me.”
The art of repentance is powered by the attitude of genuine godly sorrow that motivates one to turn from wrongdoing and humbly seek forgiveness. The art of repentance not only turns the sinner from sin, but inspires good will with the wounded. Such is a blessing to all!
Our need for forgiveness may stem from a variety of reasons. We can sin against God. We can leave God’s commands undone. Our words or deeds could cause harm to others. What will we do in these occasions? How will we respond to learning that forgiveness is needed?
When God asked Adam if he had eaten of the tree of knowledge, Adam chose to blame his wife and God for bringing her to him, (Genesis 3:12). Eve in turn blamed the deceitfulness of the serpent, (Genesis 3:13). Both were cursed by God and driven from His garden. When God asked Cain about Abel, Cain tried to hide what he knew and attempted to shift any responsibility, (Gene-sis 4:9). Aaron constructed the golden calf and led Israel into idolatry and then said to Moses, “Do not let the anger of my lord become hot. You know the people, that they are set on evil,” (Exodus 32:22). Following the exercising of God’s wrath toward Miriam, she and Aaron pleaded with Moses for forgiveness and favor from God, (Number 12:11-12). The prophet Nathan drove the truth of David’s actions home to the king, and David responded with a single statement, “I have sinned against the Lord.” (2 Samul 12:13). The returning prodigal son said, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.” (Luke 15:20)
We can see many different attitudes toward wrongdoing in these examples. Some made excuses and tried to blame others for their sins. Others tried to hide or shift responsibility for what had be done. Only two actually confessed “I have...” as it related to their sin. These two are the only ones who gave a response that was pleasing to God.
We need to stop maneuvering and justifying why we did whatever we have done and simply accept responsibility and humbly ask for forgiveness. God already knows our hearts and thus the why. When seeking forgiveness from a brother, the offering of measured justification greatly diminishes the weight of an apology or request for forgiveness. It is much more powerful with God and others to simply say with all humility, “I have...I am sorry, please forgive me.”
The art of repentance is powered by the attitude of genuine godly sorrow that motivates one to turn from wrongdoing and humbly seek forgiveness. The art of repentance not only turns the sinner from sin, but inspires good will with the wounded. Such is a blessing to all!
Do Not Forget
Neal Thurman
July 15, 2018
Moses warned the children of Israel in Deuteronomy 8:11, “Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgments, and His statutes which I command you today…” Moses reminded them of the great land that God was giving them as a possession and how God would bless their lives when they were obedient to His commandments.
Of course, God did just as Moses had told them. Joshua would lead the children of Israel into the land of Canaan to possess it as God had promised. And as for the children of Israel, Joshua 24:31 “Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had known all the works of the Lord which He had done for Israel.” They did not forget God all the days of Joshua and his contemporaries.
Yet, the day would come for Israel when the memory of Joshua was no more. Judges 2:10-11 “When all that generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation arose after them who did not know the Lord nor the work which He had done for Israel...11 Then the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord…” The people forgot the way of their leader and they forgot their God who brought them into their land.
Sadly, we are not so different from these generations of Israel. We are often a forgetful people. Forgetfulness is not considered a virtue, particularly when something of great importance was to be remembered. Yet, few characteristics could be more associated with the spirituality of many. We forget what motivated us to obey the gospel in the beginning. We forget the satisfaction and energy created by joyfully giving God our full effort and attention. We forget how much we were able to impact the lives of those around us when we walked boldly in the way of God and in service to our neighbors. We forget who we are and who we ought to be. We get distracted by the things of the world that seem very urgent, but are just not very important. We get comfortable with how things are and settle into complacency. We start looking for personal desires and obtaining the possessions of life. We forget to serve others and start collecting for ourselves. As James said of the forgetful hearer, “he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was,” James 1:23-24.
Dear brothers and sisters, let us heed Moses’ warning and beware that we do not the Lord our God. Let us always remember to keep His commandments in love.
Of course, God did just as Moses had told them. Joshua would lead the children of Israel into the land of Canaan to possess it as God had promised. And as for the children of Israel, Joshua 24:31 “Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had known all the works of the Lord which He had done for Israel.” They did not forget God all the days of Joshua and his contemporaries.
Yet, the day would come for Israel when the memory of Joshua was no more. Judges 2:10-11 “When all that generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation arose after them who did not know the Lord nor the work which He had done for Israel...11 Then the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord…” The people forgot the way of their leader and they forgot their God who brought them into their land.
Sadly, we are not so different from these generations of Israel. We are often a forgetful people. Forgetfulness is not considered a virtue, particularly when something of great importance was to be remembered. Yet, few characteristics could be more associated with the spirituality of many. We forget what motivated us to obey the gospel in the beginning. We forget the satisfaction and energy created by joyfully giving God our full effort and attention. We forget how much we were able to impact the lives of those around us when we walked boldly in the way of God and in service to our neighbors. We forget who we are and who we ought to be. We get distracted by the things of the world that seem very urgent, but are just not very important. We get comfortable with how things are and settle into complacency. We start looking for personal desires and obtaining the possessions of life. We forget to serve others and start collecting for ourselves. As James said of the forgetful hearer, “he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was,” James 1:23-24.
Dear brothers and sisters, let us heed Moses’ warning and beware that we do not the Lord our God. Let us always remember to keep His commandments in love.
Reasoning Together
Neal Thurman
July 8, 2018
Recently, we received a call related to “Give Me The Bible” in which the caller asked a question about a statement that was made by one of the speakers, not myself. I usually try to offer biblical answers to the questions that come to us by way of the toll free number, but I could not remember the statement being made, much less the context of the statement. Please, recognize that the current broadcasted program was often recorded two months previous. Anyway, I could not offer a reasonable answer.
The caller then asked to personally speak with the individual speaker. This was a relatively unique request, and obviously we do not randomly hand out personal information about the speakers. So, I contacted the speaker, told him of the statement being challenged, and asked if he would be willing to contact the caller. He enthusiastically agreed. He told me he would review his notes from the particular program and contact the caller as soon as possible.
For those who might be thinking, “Well, of course, he would call.” Please, understand that from time to time we receive calls from folks that are quite irritated and looking to gripe at someone. Some of the complaints are of the bizarre or ridiculous nature. We have one gentleman that calls to complain anytime one of the speakers mentions the country or government, or wears an image of the United States flag on a tie or lapel pin. These conversations are generally not easy to keep brief either. My point being that when someone calls to complain the easy route is to just let it slide by and encourage the caller to watch the next program. I was happy that my good brother did not take the easy way.
We regularly reference the words of Isaiah 1:18 “Come now, and let us reason together.” Let us recognize that reasoning together does not mean simply getting together to pat one another on the back for being so smart and righteous about the things of which we are in full agreement. We should see that the depth of our conviction will be lacking if we are never challenged to defend what we believe or learn the way of God more accurately (Acts 18:26). The wise man tells us in Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Unfortunately, we have become so sensitive as a people that many of us believe that if a person disagrees with us, they must dislike or even hate us. This attitude has prompted us to only seek out those in agreement to have conversation. As a result, very little teaching or learning is promoted in our personal interactions.
Let us be firm and confident, yet never refusing to listen and/or confront an opposing viewpoint. So, we can learn and teach!
The caller then asked to personally speak with the individual speaker. This was a relatively unique request, and obviously we do not randomly hand out personal information about the speakers. So, I contacted the speaker, told him of the statement being challenged, and asked if he would be willing to contact the caller. He enthusiastically agreed. He told me he would review his notes from the particular program and contact the caller as soon as possible.
For those who might be thinking, “Well, of course, he would call.” Please, understand that from time to time we receive calls from folks that are quite irritated and looking to gripe at someone. Some of the complaints are of the bizarre or ridiculous nature. We have one gentleman that calls to complain anytime one of the speakers mentions the country or government, or wears an image of the United States flag on a tie or lapel pin. These conversations are generally not easy to keep brief either. My point being that when someone calls to complain the easy route is to just let it slide by and encourage the caller to watch the next program. I was happy that my good brother did not take the easy way.
We regularly reference the words of Isaiah 1:18 “Come now, and let us reason together.” Let us recognize that reasoning together does not mean simply getting together to pat one another on the back for being so smart and righteous about the things of which we are in full agreement. We should see that the depth of our conviction will be lacking if we are never challenged to defend what we believe or learn the way of God more accurately (Acts 18:26). The wise man tells us in Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Unfortunately, we have become so sensitive as a people that many of us believe that if a person disagrees with us, they must dislike or even hate us. This attitude has prompted us to only seek out those in agreement to have conversation. As a result, very little teaching or learning is promoted in our personal interactions.
Let us be firm and confident, yet never refusing to listen and/or confront an opposing viewpoint. So, we can learn and teach!
Just Wanted to Talk
Neal Thurman
July 1, 2018
An interesting phone call was passed along to me earlier this week. A brother in Christ from Arkansas had seen the “Give Me The Bible” program and he called the 1-800 number and asked for the preacher. He did not ask for a name or even mention that the had gotten the number from the television program. He simply stated that he would like to speak with the preacher.
When I picked up the line, he gave a boisterous “Hello!” and boldly stated his name and home town. I was a bit startled and very much confused. I returned the greeting a little less enthusiastically and he told me he needed to talk to someone. I asked if he was having trouble with something and he explained that he had been in the hospital following an anxiety attack cause by his bi-polar disorder. Before I could finish the thought that I was not qualified to help truly him, he told me that was not why he called. He asked where we were located and then where Tyler was located in Texas. He asked about our weather and described his own. I asked a few questions about his hometown and family, fishing for the reason of the call. He told me he lived across the street from the house where he grew up and where his parent still live. He told me his mother may have dementia and I empathized with him and told him of my dad.
Confused, I finally asked if there was something in particular that he was wanting me to help him with. He simply said “No,” and kept on talking. Several minutes later I created a pause in the conversation and he said, “You have to go don’t you.” I agreed and told him he could call anytime and that I would try to take a few minutes to talk. He asked if I had time for a prayer. So, I led us in prayer. At “Amen” he thanked me for my time and said goodbye. Evidently, he just wanted to talk to someone.
I knew nothing of this man before his call, and he never even asked my name. I was just a preacher, off in the distance somewhere, willing to talk. I do not know his real need. I do not know his motivation. Yet, he was moved by some need or desire to have a casual conversation with a person of whom he had no knowledge.
This suggests to me that something in missing in his life. I was moved with compassion for this man, whatever his circumstance may be. That compassion will lead me to give him whatever time I can if he calls again. I do not possess any special words, but if me taking the time to listen as the man speaks of nothing in particular in some way helps him, that should be good enough for me.
Compassion should never be about me giving what I want to give, but rather giving what is needed (Luke 10:33-35). Jesus took compassion on a man possessed of demons (Mark 5:19), a widow whose son had died (Luke 7:13), and multitudes that followed Him though they had no shepherd and were weary with no food (Matthew 9:36; 14:14; 15:32). Each these had very different needs and what was wonderful for one would not have given much encouragement to the others. Of course, Jesus was able to give just what was needed in each circumstance.
I would suggest that Jesus Christ intends for His disciples to be compassionate people. Our eyes and our hearts should be open to needs of those around us. We are surrounded by much suffering and heartache. Many around us are truly in need. We may not be able to heal their wounds or even always feed the hungry. Yet, we can always give whatever we do have that offers comfort, even when it is but a listening ear.
When I picked up the line, he gave a boisterous “Hello!” and boldly stated his name and home town. I was a bit startled and very much confused. I returned the greeting a little less enthusiastically and he told me he needed to talk to someone. I asked if he was having trouble with something and he explained that he had been in the hospital following an anxiety attack cause by his bi-polar disorder. Before I could finish the thought that I was not qualified to help truly him, he told me that was not why he called. He asked where we were located and then where Tyler was located in Texas. He asked about our weather and described his own. I asked a few questions about his hometown and family, fishing for the reason of the call. He told me he lived across the street from the house where he grew up and where his parent still live. He told me his mother may have dementia and I empathized with him and told him of my dad.
Confused, I finally asked if there was something in particular that he was wanting me to help him with. He simply said “No,” and kept on talking. Several minutes later I created a pause in the conversation and he said, “You have to go don’t you.” I agreed and told him he could call anytime and that I would try to take a few minutes to talk. He asked if I had time for a prayer. So, I led us in prayer. At “Amen” he thanked me for my time and said goodbye. Evidently, he just wanted to talk to someone.
I knew nothing of this man before his call, and he never even asked my name. I was just a preacher, off in the distance somewhere, willing to talk. I do not know his real need. I do not know his motivation. Yet, he was moved by some need or desire to have a casual conversation with a person of whom he had no knowledge.
This suggests to me that something in missing in his life. I was moved with compassion for this man, whatever his circumstance may be. That compassion will lead me to give him whatever time I can if he calls again. I do not possess any special words, but if me taking the time to listen as the man speaks of nothing in particular in some way helps him, that should be good enough for me.
Compassion should never be about me giving what I want to give, but rather giving what is needed (Luke 10:33-35). Jesus took compassion on a man possessed of demons (Mark 5:19), a widow whose son had died (Luke 7:13), and multitudes that followed Him though they had no shepherd and were weary with no food (Matthew 9:36; 14:14; 15:32). Each these had very different needs and what was wonderful for one would not have given much encouragement to the others. Of course, Jesus was able to give just what was needed in each circumstance.
I would suggest that Jesus Christ intends for His disciples to be compassionate people. Our eyes and our hearts should be open to needs of those around us. We are surrounded by much suffering and heartache. Many around us are truly in need. We may not be able to heal their wounds or even always feed the hungry. Yet, we can always give whatever we do have that offers comfort, even when it is but a listening ear.
Respect for Conviction
Neal Thurman
June 24, 2018
Each year at church camp there are those who impress me with their acts of kindness or compassion or generosity. Yet sometimes, folks generate a measure of disappointment. Usually these disappointments are related to kids not behaving as they should or refusing to take instruction. It is unfortunate, but such things happen because they are kids.
This past week I was smacked with the heaviest blow of disappointment I have felt at camp in a long time. The significance was intensified by the fact that the disappointment was not caused by some 14 or 15 year-old, but rather by one of our adults. This was a staff of which I bear considerable responsibility in forming, which makes it even worse.
I will not go into the details of the situation except to say that a young lady (camper) took a stand of conviction and simply removed herself from a situation that violated her conscience. Later one of our counselors (I should say former counselor), who judged the young lady’s actions as judgmental, chose to gather a group of girls (including the above mentioned camper) together to expound upon her own viewpoint and would go on to call out the young lady, in front of her friends, for being judgmental and dividing the group. I can only pray that this incident does not cause serious damage to that young lady’s spiritual life. It had to have hurt to have someone she respected tell her that her conviction made her the problem.
Our world, even the church, is in the midst of drought of conviction. This seems especially true of our young people. Very few are willing to stand for anything if there is a cost involved. Of course, such lack of conviction makes genuine Christian living basically impossible. Thus, when we see real conviction, we should admire it. That does not mean we cannot disagree with a person of conviction, but we ought to respect reasonably conjured conviction. We are not talking about the conviction of Islamic terrorist who seek to murder those with whom they disagree. We are talking about convictions of morality and spirituality. We should never demean or scoff at those who stand faithful to their convictions, especially when they stand alone or in adversity.
It was by conviction of faith that David volunteered to face the Goliath in defense of Israel and in honor of God, (1 Samuel 17:32,45). A conviction of faith allowed Elijah to face down the 450 prophets of Baal, (1 Kings 18:22). If not for conviction of faith, Shadrach Meshach and Abed-Nego could not have stood in defiance of King Nebuchadnezzar, (Daniel 3:16-18). It was the determined conviction of Daniel that caused to seek purity before God, (Daniel 1:8).
Beloved brethren, we are not always going to agree about everything under the sun. In fact, sometimes we may have strong disagreements. Still, we should always have a good measure of respect for those who by determined conviction walk in their faith!
This past week I was smacked with the heaviest blow of disappointment I have felt at camp in a long time. The significance was intensified by the fact that the disappointment was not caused by some 14 or 15 year-old, but rather by one of our adults. This was a staff of which I bear considerable responsibility in forming, which makes it even worse.
I will not go into the details of the situation except to say that a young lady (camper) took a stand of conviction and simply removed herself from a situation that violated her conscience. Later one of our counselors (I should say former counselor), who judged the young lady’s actions as judgmental, chose to gather a group of girls (including the above mentioned camper) together to expound upon her own viewpoint and would go on to call out the young lady, in front of her friends, for being judgmental and dividing the group. I can only pray that this incident does not cause serious damage to that young lady’s spiritual life. It had to have hurt to have someone she respected tell her that her conviction made her the problem.
Our world, even the church, is in the midst of drought of conviction. This seems especially true of our young people. Very few are willing to stand for anything if there is a cost involved. Of course, such lack of conviction makes genuine Christian living basically impossible. Thus, when we see real conviction, we should admire it. That does not mean we cannot disagree with a person of conviction, but we ought to respect reasonably conjured conviction. We are not talking about the conviction of Islamic terrorist who seek to murder those with whom they disagree. We are talking about convictions of morality and spirituality. We should never demean or scoff at those who stand faithful to their convictions, especially when they stand alone or in adversity.
It was by conviction of faith that David volunteered to face the Goliath in defense of Israel and in honor of God, (1 Samuel 17:32,45). A conviction of faith allowed Elijah to face down the 450 prophets of Baal, (1 Kings 18:22). If not for conviction of faith, Shadrach Meshach and Abed-Nego could not have stood in defiance of King Nebuchadnezzar, (Daniel 3:16-18). It was the determined conviction of Daniel that caused to seek purity before God, (Daniel 1:8).
Beloved brethren, we are not always going to agree about everything under the sun. In fact, sometimes we may have strong disagreements. Still, we should always have a good measure of respect for those who by determined conviction walk in their faith!
Fighting For a Right of Misery
Neal Thurman
June 12, 2018
I am often amazed by the things that people, even Christians, fight for. I am reminded of this during our week of church camp. I readily recognize that camp is not for everyone, but I would think that one would figure that out after one year. Yet, in the midst of 175 people who are very much enjoying the opportunity interact with like-minded friends, brothers, and sisters, I have found a handful of people who are just bound and determined to be miserable. These are not new campers shocked by the experience. These are young folks that come to camp year after year just to make sure the rest of us do not forget about the other side of life. Regardless of what activity is going on or who is involved, they will not be swayed from the scowl on their face. Counselors and other campers try to encourage them, cheer them up, and get them involved. Yet, they exude negative energy and fight for their right to be miserable.
Brother Floyd now says each year in our opening staff meeting, “I used to turn myself inside out trying to make sure that every camper was happy. I have learned through that years that you can’t make people be happy.”
The fact that each camp session has a few of these folks is saddening to me, but it is not near as troubling as the fact that such people seem to be among every congregation of the Lord’s people. Folks that regardless of circumstances they are bothered by something or upset about another thing. Brothers and sisters diligently seek to affect love with loving kindness and tenderness, but they will not be swayed.
Saddest of all may be the fact that some to these folks believe they are being more righteous, more reverent, and more diligent in service to God. I wish someone would explain to me how being in a perpetual bad mood or constantly seeking to find something about which to be annoyed or offended. How does such an attitude encourage a brother? How does such a temperament draw anyone closer to Jesus Christ? How does such a manner ever open a door for teaching God’s saving grace to the lost?
I guess you can be miserable if you want to, but it is very sad. We are a blessed people! Saved by the grace of a loving God and washed in the blood of His precious Son! The faithful in Christ Jesus have a glorious destiny! God has promise to be with us and never forsake us! But I guess you can be miserable if you so choose. Or you can have the joy of the Lord!
Brother Floyd now says each year in our opening staff meeting, “I used to turn myself inside out trying to make sure that every camper was happy. I have learned through that years that you can’t make people be happy.”
The fact that each camp session has a few of these folks is saddening to me, but it is not near as troubling as the fact that such people seem to be among every congregation of the Lord’s people. Folks that regardless of circumstances they are bothered by something or upset about another thing. Brothers and sisters diligently seek to affect love with loving kindness and tenderness, but they will not be swayed.
Saddest of all may be the fact that some to these folks believe they are being more righteous, more reverent, and more diligent in service to God. I wish someone would explain to me how being in a perpetual bad mood or constantly seeking to find something about which to be annoyed or offended. How does such an attitude encourage a brother? How does such a temperament draw anyone closer to Jesus Christ? How does such a manner ever open a door for teaching God’s saving grace to the lost?
I guess you can be miserable if you want to, but it is very sad. We are a blessed people! Saved by the grace of a loving God and washed in the blood of His precious Son! The faithful in Christ Jesus have a glorious destiny! God has promise to be with us and never forsake us! But I guess you can be miserable if you so choose. Or you can have the joy of the Lord!
Where Is My Lane?
Neal Thurman
June 5, 2018
Perhaps it is difficult from time to time to not be who we have always been. Are the words of Peter in John 21:21 remarkable to anyone else? Remember the setting, Jesus has just put Peter through a difficult, yet tender, test by asking the apostle of his love for his Lord three times (John 21:15-17). This was then followed by the sobering prophecy which spoke to the suffering of Peter in the future (John 21:18-19). Yet, Peter was evidently faced with being who he had always been. For in the midst of the heartache of being confronted with the triple denial of his Lord and Savior, as well as, the solemn reality of the future, Peter evidently thought that he needed to make sure that others were doing their job or receiving their just admonition. So looking at the Apostle John, he asked Jesus, “But Lord, what about this man?”
Consider the Lord’s reply, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.” (John 21:22)
Did Peter not have enough to consider and do in regard to his own life? Remember it was Peter who boastfully said that even if all the other apostle, including John, were to forsake Jesus, he would not, even to the point of death, (Matthew 26:33,35). Everyone knows how well that went. Now Peter thinks he needs to know the fate of John. This might imply that Peter wanted to judge if the destiny of John met with his approval. At the very least, it suggests that Peter was questioning the actions or decisions of Jesus, God the Son.
Jesus basically tells Peter to do his own work, to live his own life, and to mind his own business, (1 Thessalonians 4:11). Jesus makes it clear that he neither needed nor desired Peter’s input or evaluation in regard to John. Jesus pretty much told Peter to stay in his own lane.
Sometimes, we can be like Peter in this regard. We have our own duties and challenges in life, but we feel compelled to evaluate, advise, or even implement the work of others. Though well meaning, we can often get in the way of progress and success. On other occasions, we cause serious harm by acting abruptly based on what we think (we are so sure) we know. Of course, there is the dreaded, “Well, that’s not the way I would have done that.” We should all recognize that unsolicited advice, armchair quarterbacking, and backseat driving are seldom well received. Especially, when they come from folks we perceive to be interjecting themselves where they do not belong.
Some circumstances can make this difficult. Yet, parents not following our own approved plan for child-rearing does not give us a license to act as the child’s parent. If a Bible class teacher is teaching the truth accurately while taking a different approach of which we do not care for, the best course of action is not to try taking over the class. For time to time, we may observe behavior of a brother or sister that may seem less than appropriate and we do not observe anyone offering any admonition. It would be presumptuous to assume that nothing will done and thus appoint ourselves as the administrator of correction. When all is said and done, grandparents and others should not seek to take the place of parents, students should not usurp the authority of teachers, and preachers and members should not seek to assume the role of shepherd. These are similar to the fact that the disciple should not get in the lane of the Lord, and let him be the Lord.
The flow on the highway of righteousness and life is much smoother when I find my lane, fulfill its calling to the very best of my ability, and stay in it.
Consider the Lord’s reply, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.” (John 21:22)
Did Peter not have enough to consider and do in regard to his own life? Remember it was Peter who boastfully said that even if all the other apostle, including John, were to forsake Jesus, he would not, even to the point of death, (Matthew 26:33,35). Everyone knows how well that went. Now Peter thinks he needs to know the fate of John. This might imply that Peter wanted to judge if the destiny of John met with his approval. At the very least, it suggests that Peter was questioning the actions or decisions of Jesus, God the Son.
Jesus basically tells Peter to do his own work, to live his own life, and to mind his own business, (1 Thessalonians 4:11). Jesus makes it clear that he neither needed nor desired Peter’s input or evaluation in regard to John. Jesus pretty much told Peter to stay in his own lane.
Sometimes, we can be like Peter in this regard. We have our own duties and challenges in life, but we feel compelled to evaluate, advise, or even implement the work of others. Though well meaning, we can often get in the way of progress and success. On other occasions, we cause serious harm by acting abruptly based on what we think (we are so sure) we know. Of course, there is the dreaded, “Well, that’s not the way I would have done that.” We should all recognize that unsolicited advice, armchair quarterbacking, and backseat driving are seldom well received. Especially, when they come from folks we perceive to be interjecting themselves where they do not belong.
Some circumstances can make this difficult. Yet, parents not following our own approved plan for child-rearing does not give us a license to act as the child’s parent. If a Bible class teacher is teaching the truth accurately while taking a different approach of which we do not care for, the best course of action is not to try taking over the class. For time to time, we may observe behavior of a brother or sister that may seem less than appropriate and we do not observe anyone offering any admonition. It would be presumptuous to assume that nothing will done and thus appoint ourselves as the administrator of correction. When all is said and done, grandparents and others should not seek to take the place of parents, students should not usurp the authority of teachers, and preachers and members should not seek to assume the role of shepherd. These are similar to the fact that the disciple should not get in the lane of the Lord, and let him be the Lord.
The flow on the highway of righteousness and life is much smoother when I find my lane, fulfill its calling to the very best of my ability, and stay in it.
The Tank Can Run Dry
Neal Thurman
May 30, 2018
A few of the “Give Me The Bible” speakers recently carpooled to Brown Trail for recording the program. They encountered one problem though. They failed to put the necessary gasoline in the car and they ran out short of their destination. They were rescued by one of the other speakers, but the incident became the joke of the day.
The laughs continued after taping and into the consideration of lunch and the trip home. The question was raised whether lunch or a fuel stop should come first. One of those who had been stranded asked the rescuer, “I wonder how far you can go on faith?”
The rescuer responded, “I can go a whole lot further than you guys, because my needle is way up there by the “F” on the faith meter.”
Have you ever taken the time to consider where the needle is pointing on your faith meter? I am afraid that far too often we are careless about maintaining our faith at an appropriate level. Perhaps some of us are naïve and believe the meter never goes down. They may even dismissively think or say things like, “I built up my faith years ago.” “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed…” (1 Corinthians 10:12).
Others become so busy and consumed with other matters of life that they forget or fail to do those things necessary to maintain a healthy faith. They have convinced themselves that they just do not have time to do anything but the minimum to hang on or get by. My dad used to preach to me, “It is just as easy to keep a car half full as half empty. The difference is one is prepared for emergencies and the other is not.” That drop of wisdom is apropos with fueling our faith reserves as well, and perhaps even more so. Just as it takes more resources and time to fill an empty fuel tank, it is much more difficult to fully fill our faith tank when it runs dry.
Faith is not a constant element of life. The very strongest among us have times when their faith reserves are strained to meet the needs of the day. Yet, what make these so strong is the fact that they consistently nurture their faith, adding small portions of fuel daily. Then they are prepared when life forces them to endure on a long, unexpected journey.
We need to constantly be fueling our faith. “desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby…” (1 Peter 2:2). Doing so diligently throughout life will assure us of reaching our destination.
What tragedy it would be, if we set out for the best of destinations, only to find ourselves stranded by the side of life’s highways. How sad it would be if our prize was lost because our faith tank ran dry!
The laughs continued after taping and into the consideration of lunch and the trip home. The question was raised whether lunch or a fuel stop should come first. One of those who had been stranded asked the rescuer, “I wonder how far you can go on faith?”
The rescuer responded, “I can go a whole lot further than you guys, because my needle is way up there by the “F” on the faith meter.”
Have you ever taken the time to consider where the needle is pointing on your faith meter? I am afraid that far too often we are careless about maintaining our faith at an appropriate level. Perhaps some of us are naïve and believe the meter never goes down. They may even dismissively think or say things like, “I built up my faith years ago.” “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed…” (1 Corinthians 10:12).
Others become so busy and consumed with other matters of life that they forget or fail to do those things necessary to maintain a healthy faith. They have convinced themselves that they just do not have time to do anything but the minimum to hang on or get by. My dad used to preach to me, “It is just as easy to keep a car half full as half empty. The difference is one is prepared for emergencies and the other is not.” That drop of wisdom is apropos with fueling our faith reserves as well, and perhaps even more so. Just as it takes more resources and time to fill an empty fuel tank, it is much more difficult to fully fill our faith tank when it runs dry.
Faith is not a constant element of life. The very strongest among us have times when their faith reserves are strained to meet the needs of the day. Yet, what make these so strong is the fact that they consistently nurture their faith, adding small portions of fuel daily. Then they are prepared when life forces them to endure on a long, unexpected journey.
We need to constantly be fueling our faith. “desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby…” (1 Peter 2:2). Doing so diligently throughout life will assure us of reaching our destination.
What tragedy it would be, if we set out for the best of destinations, only to find ourselves stranded by the side of life’s highways. How sad it would be if our prize was lost because our faith tank ran dry!
Where Is Your Victory?
Neal Thurman
May 20, 2018
I wonder if Satan believed Jesus to be weak and afraid if he observed the Son of God in Luke 22:44 “And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” I wonder if the devil laughed as the disciples of Jesus forsook and denied Him (Mark 14:50; Luke 22:54-62) while the Jewish leaders faithfully led the mob to cry, “Crucify Him!” (Mark 15:13-14). Do you suppose that the old devil did a happy dance in celebration of victory when Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). Perhaps Satan thought he had won the greatest of victories with Jesus (betrayed, denied, scorned, beaten, mocked, crucified, and forsaken) “breathed His last,” (Luke 23:46).
Yet, he was wrong! God’s plan called for the sacrifice of an innocent, gentle lamb rather than the might and power of roaring lion, (Revelation 5:6-12). God would Himself provide the offering for the atonement for sin, (Genesis 22:8). What Satan could not have understood is that when that spear pierced the side of God’s Son, victory was purchased with the shed blood of the Lamb. This single blow would mortally bruise the head of evil one, (Genesis 3:15). Satan could not understand the attributes of sacrifice for victory.
Perhaps the old devil still does not understand where victory can be found. He causes heartache, suffering, and evil, He shakes lives and causes much agony. He believes he can destroy people with anguish. Still, he is wrong and is without the capacity to prevent the power of the blood from bringing comfort and confidence to the faithful. “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day,” 2 Timothy 1:12.
Our hearts are vulnerable when those we love suffer. It can cause greater agony to watch the sufferings of others than to suffer oneself. The evil one is more than happy to use this pain to promote doubt and even denial of God. The devil believes he can destroy the faith of even the strongest Christian by making them watch their loved-ones writhe in pain. Yet, once again he is wrong! “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven...And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air,” 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.
Thankfully, we can say to the evil one and all of his minions and devices, “Where Is Your Victory?”
Yet, he was wrong! God’s plan called for the sacrifice of an innocent, gentle lamb rather than the might and power of roaring lion, (Revelation 5:6-12). God would Himself provide the offering for the atonement for sin, (Genesis 22:8). What Satan could not have understood is that when that spear pierced the side of God’s Son, victory was purchased with the shed blood of the Lamb. This single blow would mortally bruise the head of evil one, (Genesis 3:15). Satan could not understand the attributes of sacrifice for victory.
Perhaps the old devil still does not understand where victory can be found. He causes heartache, suffering, and evil, He shakes lives and causes much agony. He believes he can destroy people with anguish. Still, he is wrong and is without the capacity to prevent the power of the blood from bringing comfort and confidence to the faithful. “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day,” 2 Timothy 1:12.
Our hearts are vulnerable when those we love suffer. It can cause greater agony to watch the sufferings of others than to suffer oneself. The evil one is more than happy to use this pain to promote doubt and even denial of God. The devil believes he can destroy the faith of even the strongest Christian by making them watch their loved-ones writhe in pain. Yet, once again he is wrong! “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven...And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air,” 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.
Thankfully, we can say to the evil one and all of his minions and devices, “Where Is Your Victory?”
His Mother
Neal Thurman
May 8, 2018
The pages of Holy Writ contain descriptions of a number of godly mothers and their prominent offspring. Of course, the name of one of these mothers is the most recognizable because of who she bore. Her Son did things that were beyond the capabilities of all others who ever walk the face of the earth, and spoke as no other man spoke (John 7:46). Yet, His mother has a few things to teach us today.
First, she was a woman of such a character that God Almighty would choose her to bring His Son into this world. As the angel Gabriel said, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God” (Luke 1:30). The most important lesson taught by a godly mother is the modeling of Christian living before the eyes of her children. The lesson seen is much stronger than the lesson heard.
Second, she was a thoughtful woman who gave consideration of real nature of her Son. He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. (Luke 2:51) Obviously, her Son’s abilities, character, and purpose required much more consideration than any child of today, but mothers today can learn from her desire to hold things of her Son close to her heart. Though very different from her Son, the children of today are gifts from God (Numbers 18:6) and are full of marvel and wonder. Their precious nature should be kept in the heart.
Third, she displayed confidence in her Son. At the wedding feast in Cana of Galilee, the wine had run out. A confident mother brought her Son to the servants and said, “Whatever He says to you, do it.” (John 2:5). The scriptures do not tell us how much she understood about His special abilities, but she had complete confidence that He could make a difference. Our children today need the reassurance of confident mothers. It is good to know that at least one person will always believe in us.
Finally, she was there to support her Son in His darkest hour. “Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother…” (John 19:25) She could not sooth His physical suffering. She could ease the stress of being separated from His Father. She could not even hold His hand. Still, she was there for Him. Sometimes our mothers cannot mend our wound or fix what is broken, but oh the solace it brings to know that she will be near by even in our darkest, most difficult moments. Come what may, she reminds us that we are indeed loved.
His mother is still teaching today’s mothers how to love their children.
Happy Mother’s Day!
First, she was a woman of such a character that God Almighty would choose her to bring His Son into this world. As the angel Gabriel said, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God” (Luke 1:30). The most important lesson taught by a godly mother is the modeling of Christian living before the eyes of her children. The lesson seen is much stronger than the lesson heard.
Second, she was a thoughtful woman who gave consideration of real nature of her Son. He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. (Luke 2:51) Obviously, her Son’s abilities, character, and purpose required much more consideration than any child of today, but mothers today can learn from her desire to hold things of her Son close to her heart. Though very different from her Son, the children of today are gifts from God (Numbers 18:6) and are full of marvel and wonder. Their precious nature should be kept in the heart.
Third, she displayed confidence in her Son. At the wedding feast in Cana of Galilee, the wine had run out. A confident mother brought her Son to the servants and said, “Whatever He says to you, do it.” (John 2:5). The scriptures do not tell us how much she understood about His special abilities, but she had complete confidence that He could make a difference. Our children today need the reassurance of confident mothers. It is good to know that at least one person will always believe in us.
Finally, she was there to support her Son in His darkest hour. “Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother…” (John 19:25) She could not sooth His physical suffering. She could ease the stress of being separated from His Father. She could not even hold His hand. Still, she was there for Him. Sometimes our mothers cannot mend our wound or fix what is broken, but oh the solace it brings to know that she will be near by even in our darkest, most difficult moments. Come what may, she reminds us that we are indeed loved.
His mother is still teaching today’s mothers how to love their children.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Something Is Missing
Neal Thurman
May 1, 2018
Last Sunday, Tracy noticed an announcement on Facebook of the death of a man we had known in his youth. In fact this man’s father had been very close to the family my father-in-law. The father was very involved in the local congregation of the Lord’s church. He worked with us for many a church camp, even some years when his doctor advised him otherwise. Brother Floyd actually officiated his funeral the this past year, a service the now deceased son chose not to attend for whatever reason.
Tracy read the man’s rather lengthy and detailed obituary to me Monday evening. It obviously told his birth place and family linage. It also told of his part on a state champion football team, the special interest of his youth. It told of choice of college and the degree he achieved and his career position in that field. It told of the sports teams that he diligently followed as a fan. A special bit of information was shared about the country club (referred to by name) to which he belonged and played golf as often as possible, which was “his first love.”
My thoughts were very focused when she stopped reading, “Something is missing.” All of these details from family to education to work to hobbies to fandom and there was absolutely no mention of any semblance of God or the church. Now I will not try to dwell into his family or his raising, but I will suffice to say that he grew up around the church and its activities. I knew him from church camp. Yet, his obituary did not make the slightest mention of a relationship with God. Obviously, something was missing in the life being honored.
By inspiration, the Hebrews writer memorialized the faith-motivated actions of several biblical heroes, (Hebrews 11). James 3:23 tells us that Abraham was called “the friend of God.” The scriptures tell us, “So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend,” (Exodus 33:11) God said of David, “I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will,” (Acts 13:22).
Consider trying to describe any of these real people without speaking of their relationship with God. I suggest it would be quite a challenge. So let us ask ourselves, “If those that love me wrote my obituary today, a active, covenant relationship with God be missing?” “Could those who know me describe me without God in the conversation?” Think about it!
Tracy read the man’s rather lengthy and detailed obituary to me Monday evening. It obviously told his birth place and family linage. It also told of his part on a state champion football team, the special interest of his youth. It told of choice of college and the degree he achieved and his career position in that field. It told of the sports teams that he diligently followed as a fan. A special bit of information was shared about the country club (referred to by name) to which he belonged and played golf as often as possible, which was “his first love.”
My thoughts were very focused when she stopped reading, “Something is missing.” All of these details from family to education to work to hobbies to fandom and there was absolutely no mention of any semblance of God or the church. Now I will not try to dwell into his family or his raising, but I will suffice to say that he grew up around the church and its activities. I knew him from church camp. Yet, his obituary did not make the slightest mention of a relationship with God. Obviously, something was missing in the life being honored.
By inspiration, the Hebrews writer memorialized the faith-motivated actions of several biblical heroes, (Hebrews 11). James 3:23 tells us that Abraham was called “the friend of God.” The scriptures tell us, “So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend,” (Exodus 33:11) God said of David, “I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will,” (Acts 13:22).
Consider trying to describe any of these real people without speaking of their relationship with God. I suggest it would be quite a challenge. So let us ask ourselves, “If those that love me wrote my obituary today, a active, covenant relationship with God be missing?” “Could those who know me describe me without God in the conversation?” Think about it!
No Wonder
Neal Thurman
April 24, 2018
I often wonder why people are so confused about religious and spiritual matters. This confusion evidently causes discomfort when asked to explain why they believe or do certain things. Many are very hesitate to discuss details, particularly those that may not be accepted by everyone.
This week, I was able to gain a bit of clarity about such confusion. A brotherhood periodical prompted me to read a statement of belief regarding baptism on the website of Willow Creek Community Church, a megachurch in Chicago. And I thought, “No wonder people are confused!”
I would encourage the reader to do as I did. Go to www.willowcreek.org click on the About tab and select Beliefs and Values, and scroll down to baptism.
“Because the symbolism of Baptism requires a more adult level of cognitive and developmental readiness, the Elders require that children be in Grade 6 or older to be baptized at Willow Creek….The New Testament records the Baptisms of adult believers only.” Yet in another passage they state, “While recognizing the right for other churches to practice infant Baptism if it conforms to their theology…” The Bible is promoted as the only authority earlier in the statement of belief, so is infant baptism authorized by scripture or a churches theology?
“Baptism symbolizes the spiritual cleansing through divine forgiveness and the newness of life believers experience by virtue of their identification with Christ in His death and resurrection...Going under the water represents Christ’s death—and a believer's death to sin; coming out of the water illustrates His resurrection and the believer's new life in Christ.” Yet we will find later. “Baptism does not provide salvation for an individual, but rather serves to identify the individual publicly as a follower of Christ...Baptism isn't a prerequisite for salvation…” It symbolizes spiritual cleansing through divine forgiveness and a believer’s death to sin, but has no bearing or significance on one’s salvation as is but a public statement of membership. No wonder people are confused!”
“The Elders encourage new believers and believers who have not yet participated in adult Baptism to be baptized by immersion...In Romans 6:1–11, the apostle Paul describes the immersion of Baptism as a means through which the believer identifies with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ...” Yet, it is also stated, “While the Elders strongly encourage immersion Baptism, we do recognize that some individuals may request Baptism by the sprinkling of water rather than full immersion, either because of a strong personal preference or based on a compelling physical reason or disability.” Let me get this straight. The Bible calls for immersion and the Elders strongly encourage immersion, but if folks have a strong desire to defy biblical teaching and church leadership they can be sprinkled instead? Is a biblical command binding only when folks want to comply with it? Does the Bible authority or is it a book of good strong suggestions. No wonder people are confused!,
Brethren, these things come directly from the website of a church with many thousands of members who are hearing almost truths and are confused. Let us believe, profess, and live the simplicity of gospel. Let’s just do what God command as God commanded!
This week, I was able to gain a bit of clarity about such confusion. A brotherhood periodical prompted me to read a statement of belief regarding baptism on the website of Willow Creek Community Church, a megachurch in Chicago. And I thought, “No wonder people are confused!”
I would encourage the reader to do as I did. Go to www.willowcreek.org click on the About tab and select Beliefs and Values, and scroll down to baptism.
“Because the symbolism of Baptism requires a more adult level of cognitive and developmental readiness, the Elders require that children be in Grade 6 or older to be baptized at Willow Creek….The New Testament records the Baptisms of adult believers only.” Yet in another passage they state, “While recognizing the right for other churches to practice infant Baptism if it conforms to their theology…” The Bible is promoted as the only authority earlier in the statement of belief, so is infant baptism authorized by scripture or a churches theology?
“Baptism symbolizes the spiritual cleansing through divine forgiveness and the newness of life believers experience by virtue of their identification with Christ in His death and resurrection...Going under the water represents Christ’s death—and a believer's death to sin; coming out of the water illustrates His resurrection and the believer's new life in Christ.” Yet we will find later. “Baptism does not provide salvation for an individual, but rather serves to identify the individual publicly as a follower of Christ...Baptism isn't a prerequisite for salvation…” It symbolizes spiritual cleansing through divine forgiveness and a believer’s death to sin, but has no bearing or significance on one’s salvation as is but a public statement of membership. No wonder people are confused!”
“The Elders encourage new believers and believers who have not yet participated in adult Baptism to be baptized by immersion...In Romans 6:1–11, the apostle Paul describes the immersion of Baptism as a means through which the believer identifies with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ...” Yet, it is also stated, “While the Elders strongly encourage immersion Baptism, we do recognize that some individuals may request Baptism by the sprinkling of water rather than full immersion, either because of a strong personal preference or based on a compelling physical reason or disability.” Let me get this straight. The Bible calls for immersion and the Elders strongly encourage immersion, but if folks have a strong desire to defy biblical teaching and church leadership they can be sprinkled instead? Is a biblical command binding only when folks want to comply with it? Does the Bible authority or is it a book of good strong suggestions. No wonder people are confused!,
Brethren, these things come directly from the website of a church with many thousands of members who are hearing almost truths and are confused. Let us believe, profess, and live the simplicity of gospel. Let’s just do what God command as God commanded!
One To Another
Neal Thurman
April 17, 2018
Confess therefore your sins one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The supplication of a righteous man availeth much in its working. James 5:16 (ASV)
We seem to have a perpetual struggle with what should be done with our sins, especially when it comes to dealing with one another. Perhaps, most Christians have a decent intellectual understanding of the child-of-God’s solution for sin with God. The apostle John tells us to “confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just to forgive us...” (1 John 1:9). This passage implies the need for the prayerful repentance as Peter commanded of Simon in Acts 8:22. Hopefully, we understand the obvious truth that we must humbly approach the heavenly Father to acknowledge and take responsibility for our sins motivated by a penitent heart. When dealing with one another things get a bit more complicated.
James tells us to confesses our transgressions to one another, but what does that really mean. Guy N. Woods wrote, “Confession and prayer are enjoined in this section. The verbs are present imperatives, and mean: ‘Keep on confessing your sins one to another, and keep on praying one for another…” This speaks to this becoming a way of life rather than dealing with an event. Still, we are called to have mutual confession and there is implication here of public confession. These confessions are seeking prayers for spiritual healing. Yet, there is not a description as to whom these confessions are to be made. Based on this passage, we regularly promote the practical rule that the confession should be as public as the sin. This is a reasonable rule of expediency that will bode one well. Yet, stating that the rule is reasonable and expedient does not mean that it is mandated by scriptural imperative. We need to be careful that we do allow ourselves to become creators and judges of law by attempting to require others to meet our personal standards.
The one needing to be reconciled to a brother was to pause his worship and go be reconciled (Matthew 5:23-24). Jesus does not seem to be suggesting a public demonstration. In like manner, when informing one that he has transgressed against his brother, the offended is to go to the wrongdoer first alone with the hope of the schism going no further, (Matthew 18:15). The prodigal son humbly confessed to his father (Luke 15:21), but did he confess to the rest of the household?
I point these out to simply provoke thought and offer the admonition that we should be careful in this matter. The biggest consideration should be that we all strive to rid ourselves of sin and promote an environment of forgiveness. Not only should we confess to one another, but we should always be seeking to forgive one another!
We seem to have a perpetual struggle with what should be done with our sins, especially when it comes to dealing with one another. Perhaps, most Christians have a decent intellectual understanding of the child-of-God’s solution for sin with God. The apostle John tells us to “confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just to forgive us...” (1 John 1:9). This passage implies the need for the prayerful repentance as Peter commanded of Simon in Acts 8:22. Hopefully, we understand the obvious truth that we must humbly approach the heavenly Father to acknowledge and take responsibility for our sins motivated by a penitent heart. When dealing with one another things get a bit more complicated.
James tells us to confesses our transgressions to one another, but what does that really mean. Guy N. Woods wrote, “Confession and prayer are enjoined in this section. The verbs are present imperatives, and mean: ‘Keep on confessing your sins one to another, and keep on praying one for another…” This speaks to this becoming a way of life rather than dealing with an event. Still, we are called to have mutual confession and there is implication here of public confession. These confessions are seeking prayers for spiritual healing. Yet, there is not a description as to whom these confessions are to be made. Based on this passage, we regularly promote the practical rule that the confession should be as public as the sin. This is a reasonable rule of expediency that will bode one well. Yet, stating that the rule is reasonable and expedient does not mean that it is mandated by scriptural imperative. We need to be careful that we do allow ourselves to become creators and judges of law by attempting to require others to meet our personal standards.
The one needing to be reconciled to a brother was to pause his worship and go be reconciled (Matthew 5:23-24). Jesus does not seem to be suggesting a public demonstration. In like manner, when informing one that he has transgressed against his brother, the offended is to go to the wrongdoer first alone with the hope of the schism going no further, (Matthew 18:15). The prodigal son humbly confessed to his father (Luke 15:21), but did he confess to the rest of the household?
I point these out to simply provoke thought and offer the admonition that we should be careful in this matter. The biggest consideration should be that we all strive to rid ourselves of sin and promote an environment of forgiveness. Not only should we confess to one another, but we should always be seeking to forgive one another!
Gold Rule Life
Neal Thurman
April 8, 2018
I read an article this week that heralded the life and preaching career of Brother Marshall Keeble, who passed way 50 years ago this month. He must have been quite a remarkable man. Who could have imagined that a black man born into a world of segregation and culturally accepted discrimination, whose father had been born a slave, with only a 7th grade education could have life-altering influence on thousands upon thousands of people of all colors and classes? It would seem that all who knew him would accept and proclaim that he was indeed a man of God.
I readily admit that I struggle to truly comprehend the conditions under which Brother Keeble proclaimed the gospel. He was insulted, threatened, and at times physically abused, but he did not waver from proclaiming the truth of God’s word to anyone who would listen regardless of the skin color. A church historian observed, “Brother Keeble suffered all these indignities in silence and without any observable resentment.”
He was also criticized by some who were committed to the civil rights movement for not being more outspoken about discrimination and inequality. He did not work against racism in the same way as many who chose to take a more confrontational stance.. Hamil Harris, preacher for the Glenarden Church of Christ in Maryland said, “Keeble fought racism by melting hearts.”
I do not know Brother Keeble’s motivation for not speaking out or preaching against racism and discrimination. Racism can certainly be shown a being against the will of God. If “there is neither Jew nor Greek...slave nor free...male nor female...in Christ Jesus,” (Galatians 3:28), then there is definitely no black and white in Christ Jesus. Yet, he chose not to make these matters a prominent part of his preaching.
Some have supposed that he did not do so because such would have disrupted financial support that allowed him to travel, preach, and establish congregations in many areas. Or perhaps he viewed speaking on such volatile topics as a hindrance to his ability to share the gospel with all people. This would suggest he saw it as suffering a wrong for the gospel’s sake. Maybe he believed that living the Lord’s golden rule of “whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them,” (Matthew 7:12) would change the world. Without apology he could say he lived a golden rule life.
I readily admit that I struggle to truly comprehend the conditions under which Brother Keeble proclaimed the gospel. He was insulted, threatened, and at times physically abused, but he did not waver from proclaiming the truth of God’s word to anyone who would listen regardless of the skin color. A church historian observed, “Brother Keeble suffered all these indignities in silence and without any observable resentment.”
He was also criticized by some who were committed to the civil rights movement for not being more outspoken about discrimination and inequality. He did not work against racism in the same way as many who chose to take a more confrontational stance.. Hamil Harris, preacher for the Glenarden Church of Christ in Maryland said, “Keeble fought racism by melting hearts.”
I do not know Brother Keeble’s motivation for not speaking out or preaching against racism and discrimination. Racism can certainly be shown a being against the will of God. If “there is neither Jew nor Greek...slave nor free...male nor female...in Christ Jesus,” (Galatians 3:28), then there is definitely no black and white in Christ Jesus. Yet, he chose not to make these matters a prominent part of his preaching.
Some have supposed that he did not do so because such would have disrupted financial support that allowed him to travel, preach, and establish congregations in many areas. Or perhaps he viewed speaking on such volatile topics as a hindrance to his ability to share the gospel with all people. This would suggest he saw it as suffering a wrong for the gospel’s sake. Maybe he believed that living the Lord’s golden rule of “whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them,” (Matthew 7:12) would change the world. Without apology he could say he lived a golden rule life.
The Goal in Sight
Neal Thurman
April 1, 2018
We all have difficult, discouraging, and frustrating days. The impediments to days of gladness can at times be directly or indirectly related to our efforts of service to our Lord. Paul does warn us that those “who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution,” (2 Timothy 3:12), and he assures us that the temptations and struggles we face are “such as is common to man,” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Let’s be honest, these truths help when we are able to step back and consider our course of life and purpose, but in the moment of writhing, they do not bring much comfort. So, can we not only persevere, but proceed with joy?
Consider a few examples of folks who likely had a few bad days. Noah built the ark and “did all that God commanded him,” (Genesis 6:22). Yet, could Noah have ever had a day when he wondered why he was building that big boat? Could he have had a day when he smashed his fingers, hit his head, cut the planks too short, and broke a needed tool; prompting him to throw down his hammer and talk too himself about his chosen coarse? I would say that the odds are pretty high? Still, Noah believed that obeying God’s commands meant saving his family from the destruction that God would bring upon the earth. The goal of saving his family must have remained in his sight.
The Bible is filled with such stories. Could Moses have had days when he thought that he should just remain silent when God sought to destroy Israel? Yet, he saw in his heart God’s people possessing God’s gift. Could Joseph have had a day when he thought that God must not think much more of him than his brothers did? Could David have had a day when he felt sick and tired of fleeing for his life from a king whom he had only served faithfully? Could Daniel have had a day when he grew weary of being captive in a in a foreign and godless land. We know that Elijah questioned if his efforts had accomplished anything (1 Kings 19:10). And don’t you think that Jeremiah grew tired of weeping over his foolish brethren.
This is certainly not an exhaustive list, but all of these great men in the Bible had days of difficulty and distress. So how did they persevere? How did they keep the joy of the Lord alive in their lives? May I suggest that they kept the goal of God’s reward in sight. The light at the end of the pathway is God, Himself.
We are all going to have times that cause us to be sad, discouraged, and even depressed. Some will have moments of extreme distress that shake their lives. Yet, beloved brethren, we must keep our eye on the prize. We must constantly keep the goal of salvation and a home in heaven in sight. Isn’t it interesting how hard we can push and how far we can go when the light of home shines before us? Keep the goal in sight!
Consider a few examples of folks who likely had a few bad days. Noah built the ark and “did all that God commanded him,” (Genesis 6:22). Yet, could Noah have ever had a day when he wondered why he was building that big boat? Could he have had a day when he smashed his fingers, hit his head, cut the planks too short, and broke a needed tool; prompting him to throw down his hammer and talk too himself about his chosen coarse? I would say that the odds are pretty high? Still, Noah believed that obeying God’s commands meant saving his family from the destruction that God would bring upon the earth. The goal of saving his family must have remained in his sight.
The Bible is filled with such stories. Could Moses have had days when he thought that he should just remain silent when God sought to destroy Israel? Yet, he saw in his heart God’s people possessing God’s gift. Could Joseph have had a day when he thought that God must not think much more of him than his brothers did? Could David have had a day when he felt sick and tired of fleeing for his life from a king whom he had only served faithfully? Could Daniel have had a day when he grew weary of being captive in a in a foreign and godless land. We know that Elijah questioned if his efforts had accomplished anything (1 Kings 19:10). And don’t you think that Jeremiah grew tired of weeping over his foolish brethren.
This is certainly not an exhaustive list, but all of these great men in the Bible had days of difficulty and distress. So how did they persevere? How did they keep the joy of the Lord alive in their lives? May I suggest that they kept the goal of God’s reward in sight. The light at the end of the pathway is God, Himself.
We are all going to have times that cause us to be sad, discouraged, and even depressed. Some will have moments of extreme distress that shake their lives. Yet, beloved brethren, we must keep our eye on the prize. We must constantly keep the goal of salvation and a home in heaven in sight. Isn’t it interesting how hard we can push and how far we can go when the light of home shines before us? Keep the goal in sight!
"Look It Up"
Neal Thurman
March 25, 2018
Ready access to almost limitless information has been made available to us through hand-held technological devices. This has created an interesting phenomena, especially among our young folks. We are much less likely to take someone’s word for a historical or scientific fact than we used to be. Today, we “google it” or we ask “Siri” to provide us with accurate information on the subject.
Remember the good old days when
Grandpa told big stories about his war days and the like. We just ate it up. We listened with anticipation as he told of crossing the Pacific Ocean on a troop ship and seeing a whale that was 200 feet long, and how when fighting with the North Koreans, General Douglas MacArthur, himself, had taken control of their unit to lead them into battle.
Yet today, our kids pull out their phones and in only a few minutes, they discover that even the largest of whales does not grow over 100 feet, much less 200. It takes the zip out of the big tales of famous generals when they learn that Grandpa went to Korea in 1952 and Douglas MacArthur was relieved of duties in April of 1951. The power to looking up the facts dispels exaggeration and corrects errant facts.
Perhaps one wonders why this matters to people of faith. The reason is that we need to be “Looking Up” the truth about God’s will. Rather than concerning ourselves with the accuracy of Grandpa’s memory of his youth, we ought to be concerning ourselves with what we have been told about God, Jesus Christ, the gospel, and obedience. We have had ready opportunities to do so for many generations. The Bible has been readily available to serve as the source of all truth. We just need to “Look It Up!”
Still, many of us are lazy about searching the scriptures to verify truth. It is a sad note when we are too lazy to determine the welfare of our eternal souls. Yet, technology can rush to aid in this area as well. That same device that can instantly peruse scientific and historical data, can just as easily search thousands of biblical references in a moment. There is absolutely no reason that a person should simply take a man’s word for anything the Bible says. There is no reason to set at the feet of a religious speaker like astonished children listening with baited breath to Grandpa’s big tales of days gone by. We have the instant power to “Look It Up.” Thus, there is no excuse for abject ignorance. Just “Look It Up!”
“These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.”
Acts 17:11
Remember the good old days when
Grandpa told big stories about his war days and the like. We just ate it up. We listened with anticipation as he told of crossing the Pacific Ocean on a troop ship and seeing a whale that was 200 feet long, and how when fighting with the North Koreans, General Douglas MacArthur, himself, had taken control of their unit to lead them into battle.
Yet today, our kids pull out their phones and in only a few minutes, they discover that even the largest of whales does not grow over 100 feet, much less 200. It takes the zip out of the big tales of famous generals when they learn that Grandpa went to Korea in 1952 and Douglas MacArthur was relieved of duties in April of 1951. The power to looking up the facts dispels exaggeration and corrects errant facts.
Perhaps one wonders why this matters to people of faith. The reason is that we need to be “Looking Up” the truth about God’s will. Rather than concerning ourselves with the accuracy of Grandpa’s memory of his youth, we ought to be concerning ourselves with what we have been told about God, Jesus Christ, the gospel, and obedience. We have had ready opportunities to do so for many generations. The Bible has been readily available to serve as the source of all truth. We just need to “Look It Up!”
Still, many of us are lazy about searching the scriptures to verify truth. It is a sad note when we are too lazy to determine the welfare of our eternal souls. Yet, technology can rush to aid in this area as well. That same device that can instantly peruse scientific and historical data, can just as easily search thousands of biblical references in a moment. There is absolutely no reason that a person should simply take a man’s word for anything the Bible says. There is no reason to set at the feet of a religious speaker like astonished children listening with baited breath to Grandpa’s big tales of days gone by. We have the instant power to “Look It Up.” Thus, there is no excuse for abject ignorance. Just “Look It Up!”
“These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.”
Acts 17:11
Effort Does Not Equate Righteousness
Neal Thurman
March 18, 2018
“Just try a little harder and everything will work out.” We say things such as this in an effort to inspire diligence and effort in others. Yet, these statements are not necessarily true. Sometimes a fundamental problem exist that negates the effectiveness of diligent effort. No profit is gained by trying really hard at doing the wrong thing, or the right thing in the wrong place or at the wrong time.
My dear wife got up a 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning and left to house by 5:00 a.m. in order to arrive in Shreveport in time to take her father to the hospital for a surgical procedure. She did all that was necessary to make this happen. She prepared her clothes, packed her bag (she was going to stay overnight with him), and most importantly prepared her coffee to be brewed. She was fully successful at arriving on time and ready to go. I called at about 8:15 to see that she had arrived safely and check on how things were going. She told me that everything was fine, except for one thing. Her dad’s surgery is next Tuesday morning at 8:00 a.m.
She was well prepared. She gave diligent effort. She executed the plan in a proper manner. But the effectiveness of her efforts were completely negated by an error in timing that was not her own.
Trying harder, being prepared, giving your best effort do not in and of themselves create success. These certainly do not create righteousness on their own. Effort and diligence offered with faulty information is of no real value.
We would be hard pressed to find many biblical characters that were more motivated and diligent in effort than Saul of Tarsus. Who gave better effort than Saul in defending what he believed? Acts 22:3-5 ”I...was zealous toward God as you all are today. 4 I persecuted this Way to the death,...and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished.” There was no problem with Saul’s effort, only with his information. Remember Jesus asked this hard working man, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” Acts 9:4. Saul was trying hard, but his work was only causing heartache to the Lord.
Working hard is great. No effective substitute for diligent effort even exist. Yet, these alone do equate to righteousness. We must accurately know God’s way and plan for our efforts to be profitable in our spiritual lives. So, try hard, be prepared, give your best effort, but after learning the truth of God’s way!
My dear wife got up a 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning and left to house by 5:00 a.m. in order to arrive in Shreveport in time to take her father to the hospital for a surgical procedure. She did all that was necessary to make this happen. She prepared her clothes, packed her bag (she was going to stay overnight with him), and most importantly prepared her coffee to be brewed. She was fully successful at arriving on time and ready to go. I called at about 8:15 to see that she had arrived safely and check on how things were going. She told me that everything was fine, except for one thing. Her dad’s surgery is next Tuesday morning at 8:00 a.m.
She was well prepared. She gave diligent effort. She executed the plan in a proper manner. But the effectiveness of her efforts were completely negated by an error in timing that was not her own.
Trying harder, being prepared, giving your best effort do not in and of themselves create success. These certainly do not create righteousness on their own. Effort and diligence offered with faulty information is of no real value.
We would be hard pressed to find many biblical characters that were more motivated and diligent in effort than Saul of Tarsus. Who gave better effort than Saul in defending what he believed? Acts 22:3-5 ”I...was zealous toward God as you all are today. 4 I persecuted this Way to the death,...and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished.” There was no problem with Saul’s effort, only with his information. Remember Jesus asked this hard working man, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” Acts 9:4. Saul was trying hard, but his work was only causing heartache to the Lord.
Working hard is great. No effective substitute for diligent effort even exist. Yet, these alone do equate to righteousness. We must accurately know God’s way and plan for our efforts to be profitable in our spiritual lives. So, try hard, be prepared, give your best effort, but after learning the truth of God’s way!
I Have Learned...
Neal Thurman
March 11, 2018
I often ponder why contentment seems like such a difficult concept for us to master. The very idea seems to be a struggle for some and most, myself included, wrestle with the application. Perhaps this is because we seek to find our in the wrong places, by the wrong means, based on the wrong foundation.
Infant children have a simple sense for the measure of contentment. Their level of contentment is linked directly to their personal comfort. They are content when everything suits them. This contentment vanishes when anything is not to their liking. This is acceptable and natural for children of this age because they have not learned to think any differently.
Of course, we need to grow out of the complete self-centeredness of infancy. Yet, some of us are not so unlike those little children, but their symptoms discontentment are not near as cute. These still find their content solely in personal comfort. We must seek self-improvement in the area of life.
Paul wrote, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” (Philippians 4:11-12).
We should constantly be trying to improve ourselves, especially in our relationship with God. Paul stated that he had learned to be content. Thus, he wasn’t always the mature Christian who penned the letter to the Philippians. Paul learned scriptural principles and he learned life lessons by applying those principles.
Life is full of lesson. Last Saturday, I was returning from visiting my mother when just this side of Mesquite, I ran over something that cut down a rear tire. That’s always fun. I unloaded my luggage to gain access to the temporary spare and a jack that I had not seen previously. The jack would suffice, but I did not find a lug wrench. Problem? Interesting enough, my mother had sent me home with a large roadside emergency kit, which I did not think I needed. Inside the kit, I found a lug wretch. Hooray! I proceeded to put the temporary spare on the front and move the front to the back. The whole process took about an hour and a half and I was faced with the prospect of driving home at 50 mph.
Frustrated after smashing my finger wrestling the flat into the truck, I looked up to the sky, perhaps trying to see who was watching. In that moment, everything changed. The sky was blue and bright sunshine caressed my faced with its warmth. I said aloud to no one in particular, “I sure am glad it’s no raining!” This one exclamation ignited a bevy of thought that flooded my brain with thoughts of thanksgiving. I was thankful that the tire had not blown out as I traversed the high, curving overpass link 635 and Hwy 80. I was thankful I and the car could get home, even if slowly. I was thankful Mama had sent me home with that suitcase-sized emergency kit. I was thankful that God had provided me such a beautiful day to learn how to be content whatever the immediate circumstances may offer!
Hebrews 13:5 Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
May we all learn to truly be content!
“What Do You Bring To The World?”
Neal Thurman
March 4, 2018
We often speak of the various talents and abilities that people posses. Considering Matthew 25:14-30, we also regularly encourage individuals, especially Christians, to use their abilities for good. We offer special encouragement to those with exceptional abilities to do those things that not everyone can accomplish.
This focus is given with sound reasoning. Yet, there is more that we have to offer to world than our talents and abilities. These things call more for choice, commitment, and effort than special skills. These things have to do with manner, continence, and attitude. These are things that reveal depth of heart rather than ability. It is of these things that I ask, “What do you bring to world?”
Like Moses, do you show humility when you are in positions of authority (Numbers 12:3); and will you go to bat for your brethren even when they have acted foolishly (Exodus 32;32; Numbers 12;13)? Or like Aaron and Miriam, would you bring pettiness and prejudice into the arena (Numbers 12:2)? Like Joseph, will you accept personal suffering to bring about good for all and without bitterness will you offer forgiveness to those who have maliciously sinned against you (Genesis 45:3-8)? Or like his brothers, will hatred and deceit be your gift to the world (Genesis 37)? Like Paul, will you suffer persecution, endure hardship, and mold yourself in any righteous way just so that you might save a soul (1 Corinthians 9:19-23)? Or like Jonah, will pour out bitterness and anger to judge who is worthy of kindness and concern and to be saved by God (Jonah 4:1-3)? Like Barnabas, are you ready to give what you have for the care and encouragement of others and will you stand in defense of a brother in need of a second chance (Acts 4:36-37; 15:37-39)? These all brought something to the world that was not according to talent and much of it started with attitude.
The scriptures tell us:
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger...13 A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken. ” Proverbs 15:1,13.
“The north wind brings forth rain, and a backbiting tongue an angry countenance.” Proverbs 25:23.
I recognize that some of us have a more serious tone to our lives and are less likely to be filled with glee and laughter, but that does not mean we cannot bring joy, kindness, and compassion into the world. It may take a little effort and commitment, but we can all find a way to bring a little comfort and consolation into this old world full of hate and anger.
Let’s face it brethren, some of us have never met a day with which we could not find something wrong, a weather pattern we could not offer a complaint, a person with whom we cannot find a fault, or a silver-lined cloud that we cannot find the dark, stormy shell. We should also recognize that bitterness, anger, and discontent are tools of the devil to hamper the work of the Lord. Let us, as the elect of God, washed in the blood of Lamb, choose to be happy and contented, and then let us spread the happiness around to everyone we meet!
This focus is given with sound reasoning. Yet, there is more that we have to offer to world than our talents and abilities. These things call more for choice, commitment, and effort than special skills. These things have to do with manner, continence, and attitude. These are things that reveal depth of heart rather than ability. It is of these things that I ask, “What do you bring to world?”
Like Moses, do you show humility when you are in positions of authority (Numbers 12:3); and will you go to bat for your brethren even when they have acted foolishly (Exodus 32;32; Numbers 12;13)? Or like Aaron and Miriam, would you bring pettiness and prejudice into the arena (Numbers 12:2)? Like Joseph, will you accept personal suffering to bring about good for all and without bitterness will you offer forgiveness to those who have maliciously sinned against you (Genesis 45:3-8)? Or like his brothers, will hatred and deceit be your gift to the world (Genesis 37)? Like Paul, will you suffer persecution, endure hardship, and mold yourself in any righteous way just so that you might save a soul (1 Corinthians 9:19-23)? Or like Jonah, will pour out bitterness and anger to judge who is worthy of kindness and concern and to be saved by God (Jonah 4:1-3)? Like Barnabas, are you ready to give what you have for the care and encouragement of others and will you stand in defense of a brother in need of a second chance (Acts 4:36-37; 15:37-39)? These all brought something to the world that was not according to talent and much of it started with attitude.
The scriptures tell us:
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger...13 A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken. ” Proverbs 15:1,13.
“The north wind brings forth rain, and a backbiting tongue an angry countenance.” Proverbs 25:23.
I recognize that some of us have a more serious tone to our lives and are less likely to be filled with glee and laughter, but that does not mean we cannot bring joy, kindness, and compassion into the world. It may take a little effort and commitment, but we can all find a way to bring a little comfort and consolation into this old world full of hate and anger.
Let’s face it brethren, some of us have never met a day with which we could not find something wrong, a weather pattern we could not offer a complaint, a person with whom we cannot find a fault, or a silver-lined cloud that we cannot find the dark, stormy shell. We should also recognize that bitterness, anger, and discontent are tools of the devil to hamper the work of the Lord. Let us, as the elect of God, washed in the blood of Lamb, choose to be happy and contented, and then let us spread the happiness around to everyone we meet!
“Choose Love”
Neal Thurman
February 25, 2018
We were all moved by the recent senseless violence at a Florida high school. We are panged by the loss of life and we are confused about why these acts of terror continue to happen in our world. Maybe we are even frustrated with politician who scrabble for talking points that will best highlight their party line and damage that of their opponents. Yet in the end, they do not seek or support anything of substance that could be considered a real solution. So called news programs seek to sensationalize the events to drive rating, but may not be seeking to report the truth. Thus, we throw up our hand in a sense of helplessness.
Conversely, I watched a news commentary program last week that actually broadcasted something remarkable. The guest on the show was a woman named Scarlett Lewis. Her six-year-old son, Jesse, was shot and killed during the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary in 2012. When asked what she thought about guns, mental illness, and the rash of mass shootings, she said that she hoped that the president would address the real problem. She elaborated by discussing the fact that young people are feeling angry, bitter, and cut off, and they do not have the emotional and relationship training to deal with this flood of negative emotion. Ms. Lewis has become an advocate for social emotional education. She is the founder of the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement. They have created a free enrichment program for schools focusing on social and emotional learning. She proclaims that if children are taught how to have real relationships and how to have love and admiration for one another, they will never want to kill one another. This mother, who buried her murdered little boy only a few years ago, is very compelling when she passionately says, “Choose love!”
I was moved by the words that seem very unique to all the other things being sown across the airways, but then I realized I had seen this message before.
Ephesians 6:4 “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”
And what is the way of Lord? Colossians 3:1-13 “...put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another…” Romans 12:10,15 “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another;...Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Ephesians 4:32 “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another…” John 15:12 “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” Romans 14:19 “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” 1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”
I guess the Lord knew all along that we needed to have proper relationships with one another in order to live in peace. The message is not new, but is yet right, “Choose Love!”
Conversely, I watched a news commentary program last week that actually broadcasted something remarkable. The guest on the show was a woman named Scarlett Lewis. Her six-year-old son, Jesse, was shot and killed during the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary in 2012. When asked what she thought about guns, mental illness, and the rash of mass shootings, she said that she hoped that the president would address the real problem. She elaborated by discussing the fact that young people are feeling angry, bitter, and cut off, and they do not have the emotional and relationship training to deal with this flood of negative emotion. Ms. Lewis has become an advocate for social emotional education. She is the founder of the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement. They have created a free enrichment program for schools focusing on social and emotional learning. She proclaims that if children are taught how to have real relationships and how to have love and admiration for one another, they will never want to kill one another. This mother, who buried her murdered little boy only a few years ago, is very compelling when she passionately says, “Choose love!”
I was moved by the words that seem very unique to all the other things being sown across the airways, but then I realized I had seen this message before.
Ephesians 6:4 “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”
And what is the way of Lord? Colossians 3:1-13 “...put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another…” Romans 12:10,15 “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another;...Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Ephesians 4:32 “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another…” John 15:12 “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” Romans 14:19 “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” 1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”
I guess the Lord knew all along that we needed to have proper relationships with one another in order to live in peace. The message is not new, but is yet right, “Choose Love!”
Great and Perfect Gift
Neal Thurman
February 11, 2018
The past week has been trying but rewarding, sad but satisfying. I was blessed with the privilege of eulogizing the life of my father at his funeral. It was hard, but it fulfilled an aspiration that I have held for almost 25 years. I was privileged to honor him by doing something he would have done for one he loved.
As I sought to gather and organize the thoughts which I hoped to share with family and friends, I often found my thoughts drifting to ponder, “What a gift he has given me.” He provided me with a gift that brought peace and joy to an occasion that generally calls for sadness. He provided my with all the colors of he rainbow and clean canvas to paint the image of a life. He left me to explain a quirky sense of human and not a questionable life style. He inspired me to boast of the selfless acts of a servant rather than mitigating the impact of a slave to self. He provided me with a book that when opened revealed a life lived in the light of God’s righteousness rather than a book with a pretty binding that is better left on the shelf.
What greater gift could any one of us give to loved ones than the peace of trusting in the future of one who has fallen asleep? It is a gift that requires nothing of the recipient, but may have a life-altering impact on the same. It is a gift that requires no earthly wealth, but provides a treasure of blessings that cannot be purchased with all the money in the world. It is a gift that requires no special ability, but is more precious than tongue can describe. This gift can be given only once, but its influence can reach across generations.
This pondering led me to exam my own life and ask the question, “How is my gift to my family?” It is a piercing question when asked in sincerity. Though it may make us uncomfortable, an honest answer needs to be provided. The answer needs to be followed by the conviction to maintain the right answer or correct the wrong one.
My dad gave me a great and perfect gift! He fell asleep as a faithful child of God to await the call of his Lord and Savior (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). He gave me the comfort of his resting place in Paradise. The greatest gift I could ever give is to pass his gift along through my life. In so doing, I will truly honor his memory and put his gift to great use.
Are you working of on a great and perfect gift for those you love? It may take a lifetime, but it will be treasured!
As I sought to gather and organize the thoughts which I hoped to share with family and friends, I often found my thoughts drifting to ponder, “What a gift he has given me.” He provided me with a gift that brought peace and joy to an occasion that generally calls for sadness. He provided my with all the colors of he rainbow and clean canvas to paint the image of a life. He left me to explain a quirky sense of human and not a questionable life style. He inspired me to boast of the selfless acts of a servant rather than mitigating the impact of a slave to self. He provided me with a book that when opened revealed a life lived in the light of God’s righteousness rather than a book with a pretty binding that is better left on the shelf.
What greater gift could any one of us give to loved ones than the peace of trusting in the future of one who has fallen asleep? It is a gift that requires nothing of the recipient, but may have a life-altering impact on the same. It is a gift that requires no earthly wealth, but provides a treasure of blessings that cannot be purchased with all the money in the world. It is a gift that requires no special ability, but is more precious than tongue can describe. This gift can be given only once, but its influence can reach across generations.
This pondering led me to exam my own life and ask the question, “How is my gift to my family?” It is a piercing question when asked in sincerity. Though it may make us uncomfortable, an honest answer needs to be provided. The answer needs to be followed by the conviction to maintain the right answer or correct the wrong one.
My dad gave me a great and perfect gift! He fell asleep as a faithful child of God to await the call of his Lord and Savior (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). He gave me the comfort of his resting place in Paradise. The greatest gift I could ever give is to pass his gift along through my life. In so doing, I will truly honor his memory and put his gift to great use.
Are you working of on a great and perfect gift for those you love? It may take a lifetime, but it will be treasured!
What Do You Do?
Neal Thurman
February 4, 2018
Last Sunday was a day of rarity for me. For the second time since I began preaching in February of 1992, I was not preaching on a Sunday due to illness. (I want to extend a big “Thank you,” to all those who stepped up, on very short notice, and moved our Bible class and worship services forward.) It felt odd to not be hurrying the family as the desired departure time approached. It seemed very strange, even surreal, to watch them leave without me. Yet, the door closed behind them and it was just me and the dog.
I read a bit of scripture and then did some proof-reading for Spencer on an essay that he had written for school. I answered an email from Andy and sent him some outline help for the sermon. It was now about 10:00 a.m. and I had run out of obvious things to do. I thought about how much time was left in Bible class and wondered who was teaching mine. I pondered if there was some further help that I could give Andy, and did he need it? I was curious if any who had been out sick were back in services. I looked at the clock. It was 10:02.
In a loud voice, I asked everyone in the house, “What do people do WHEN they stay home on Sunday?”
The dog looked at me with a look of annoyance and then laid his had back down on a pillow. Obviously, this meant he was doing what he does each Sunday. I recognize that there are folks a lot like our dog who never have any intention of Sunday being a day of worship. These play golf or fish or simply follow day-off procedures. These are not the ones I’m questioning.
I would like to ask the question of those who worship sometimes and sometimes they stay home. “What do you do when stay home on Sunday?” Personally, I found it a quite boring time to be sitting around the house. As the minutes rolled by, I considered when it was likely that my brethren were singing praises to God (Ephesians 5:19) and I was not a part of it. Then the time came when my brethren would be gathered at the table of the Lord to commune with Him (1 Corinthians 11:23-29) and my seat was empty. It was not by choice, but I was still missing the fellowship of my Lord and my brethren. I really could not find anything to do that could substitute for this fellowship.
I will ask again, “What do you do when you stay home on Sunday?” And just one more question, “How does it compare with gathering with saints in order that you might be provoked to love and good works, (Hebrews 10:24-25)?” It is just a question I asked sitting alone on Sunday.
I read a bit of scripture and then did some proof-reading for Spencer on an essay that he had written for school. I answered an email from Andy and sent him some outline help for the sermon. It was now about 10:00 a.m. and I had run out of obvious things to do. I thought about how much time was left in Bible class and wondered who was teaching mine. I pondered if there was some further help that I could give Andy, and did he need it? I was curious if any who had been out sick were back in services. I looked at the clock. It was 10:02.
In a loud voice, I asked everyone in the house, “What do people do WHEN they stay home on Sunday?”
The dog looked at me with a look of annoyance and then laid his had back down on a pillow. Obviously, this meant he was doing what he does each Sunday. I recognize that there are folks a lot like our dog who never have any intention of Sunday being a day of worship. These play golf or fish or simply follow day-off procedures. These are not the ones I’m questioning.
I would like to ask the question of those who worship sometimes and sometimes they stay home. “What do you do when stay home on Sunday?” Personally, I found it a quite boring time to be sitting around the house. As the minutes rolled by, I considered when it was likely that my brethren were singing praises to God (Ephesians 5:19) and I was not a part of it. Then the time came when my brethren would be gathered at the table of the Lord to commune with Him (1 Corinthians 11:23-29) and my seat was empty. It was not by choice, but I was still missing the fellowship of my Lord and my brethren. I really could not find anything to do that could substitute for this fellowship.
I will ask again, “What do you do when you stay home on Sunday?” And just one more question, “How does it compare with gathering with saints in order that you might be provoked to love and good works, (Hebrews 10:24-25)?” It is just a question I asked sitting alone on Sunday.
Just Couldn’t Wait
Neal Thurman
January 14, 2018
A few days ago, I had lunch at a local restaurant that offers complimentary soft-serve ice cream. After paying my check, I sought to avail myself of this sweet treat. As I approached the ice cream dispenser, I noticed a worker removing an empty box that had once held stacks of cones. I questioned whether it was worth waiting for the change to be made, but then something caught my attention. About three feet behind the worker was precious little girl about 4 years old with long curly blond hair and bright blue eyes that were locked on every movement the worker made. The look on her face was solely focused and intense. I decided to wait. The worker seemed to be oblivious to her, and he definitely was not working at a pace satisfying to her expectations. Yet, she stayed absolutely silent and only moved to follow the workers movements. Finally, he raised and inverted the box and instantly four cones revealed themselves. The little girl’s mouth fell open as the anticipation of creamy sweetness stirred her emotions. Almost instinctively, the little girl’s mother reached out and caught the hood of her jacket. With the worker out of the way and the release of mom’s grip, the little girl approached the treasure slowly, but intently. The tiny hand slid beyond her sleeve as she carefully made her selection. She gently pulled the cone from its place, examined it, then cradled it in both hands for delivery to mom and completion of the prize.
I made my own ice cream cone, but the observation of the little girl’s intent and focus stayed with me. I verbally asked the only person in the car, “What would the church be like if Christians were as excited about Christ as that little girl was about an ice cream cone?” The person in the car had difficulty even imaging such, so he did not answer.
But what if we yearned for the moment that we could taste the sweetness of God’s holy word? “How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psalm 119:103). What if we just couldn’t wait for an opportunity to commune with our Lord? “Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me in Your righteousness,” (Psalm 119:40). What if we were truly excited about joining the children of God in lifting up praise to the Father? “Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous; and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (Psalm 32:11). What if we perceived a living relationship with the Lord as a precious treasure worthy of our full attention? “O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land where there is no water...3 Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You.” (Psalm 63:1,3).
I realize that what is needed to love the Lord is quite different than a love for ice cream. Yet, have you ever wondered, “What if we just couldn’t wait to worship God?”
I made my own ice cream cone, but the observation of the little girl’s intent and focus stayed with me. I verbally asked the only person in the car, “What would the church be like if Christians were as excited about Christ as that little girl was about an ice cream cone?” The person in the car had difficulty even imaging such, so he did not answer.
But what if we yearned for the moment that we could taste the sweetness of God’s holy word? “How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psalm 119:103). What if we just couldn’t wait for an opportunity to commune with our Lord? “Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me in Your righteousness,” (Psalm 119:40). What if we were truly excited about joining the children of God in lifting up praise to the Father? “Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous; and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (Psalm 32:11). What if we perceived a living relationship with the Lord as a precious treasure worthy of our full attention? “O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land where there is no water...3 Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You.” (Psalm 63:1,3).
I realize that what is needed to love the Lord is quite different than a love for ice cream. Yet, have you ever wondered, “What if we just couldn’t wait to worship God?”
What Do You Care About?
Neal Thurman
January 7, 2018
The greatest teacher in all the world cannot make a single student learn. The most eloquent, powerful, and scholarly preacher cannot himself establish a saving faith in even one listener. The most thoughtful, loving parent cannot guarantee faithful obedience to God from a child. All of these things are true because we cannot force a person to care. We cannot control the intent of one’s heart, even in those closest to us.
It is easy to become frustrated when things do not progress in the way or at the pace which we desire. This is certainly true in the church. We make efforts and attempts to encourage growth and edification in the church, or especially in a congregation. Yet, we look around and continue to see empty seats and the same few laboring in the various works of the church. We may be led to ask, “Why aren’t we growing?” or “What are we doing wrong?”
One may say, “Maybe it’s the way we go about things.” Jesus said, “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ (Matthew 11:18-19). So, which way was the way to reach the people?
“Well, we need to reach people where they are.” Acts 24:24-25, “...he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. 25 Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” Acts 26:27-28 “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.” 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.” Which of these unbelieving men did Paul fail to understand his place in world?
“We need something that gets folks excited so they will want to be a part of the church.” 1 Corinthians 1:22-23 “For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness…” Should the apostles have conducted grand healings and miracle performances to stir up the people?
Beloved brethren, sometimes it is not so much what we are doing or not doing, but what is happening with those who receive it. We are asking them, “What do you care about?” Because we cannot make them care. We cannot make them love the Lord. We cannot make them surrender their wills to Him. We cannot make them be faithfully to the Lord or the church that he bought with his own blood (Acts 20:28).
Some may allege that this is an excuse for not doing something. On the contrary, I will tell you what we must do, faithfully. “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,” (Mark 16;15). “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching,” (2 Timothy 4:2). “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you,” (John 13:34). “...but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity,” (1 Timothy 4:12). “ If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet,” (John 13:14). “ Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. ...as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men...“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink…” (Romans 12: 15,18,20).
These are not insignificant things. In fact, sometimes they are quite difficult. They of vital importance because they proclaim what we care about. And these things are never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Our challenge is to follow Paul’s words in Galatians 6:9, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
It is easy to become frustrated when things do not progress in the way or at the pace which we desire. This is certainly true in the church. We make efforts and attempts to encourage growth and edification in the church, or especially in a congregation. Yet, we look around and continue to see empty seats and the same few laboring in the various works of the church. We may be led to ask, “Why aren’t we growing?” or “What are we doing wrong?”
One may say, “Maybe it’s the way we go about things.” Jesus said, “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ (Matthew 11:18-19). So, which way was the way to reach the people?
“Well, we need to reach people where they are.” Acts 24:24-25, “...he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. 25 Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” Acts 26:27-28 “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.” 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.” Which of these unbelieving men did Paul fail to understand his place in world?
“We need something that gets folks excited so they will want to be a part of the church.” 1 Corinthians 1:22-23 “For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness…” Should the apostles have conducted grand healings and miracle performances to stir up the people?
Beloved brethren, sometimes it is not so much what we are doing or not doing, but what is happening with those who receive it. We are asking them, “What do you care about?” Because we cannot make them care. We cannot make them love the Lord. We cannot make them surrender their wills to Him. We cannot make them be faithfully to the Lord or the church that he bought with his own blood (Acts 20:28).
Some may allege that this is an excuse for not doing something. On the contrary, I will tell you what we must do, faithfully. “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,” (Mark 16;15). “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching,” (2 Timothy 4:2). “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you,” (John 13:34). “...but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity,” (1 Timothy 4:12). “ If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet,” (John 13:14). “ Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. ...as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men...“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink…” (Romans 12: 15,18,20).
These are not insignificant things. In fact, sometimes they are quite difficult. They of vital importance because they proclaim what we care about. And these things are never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Our challenge is to follow Paul’s words in Galatians 6:9, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
Empty Boxes
Neal Thurman
December 24, 2017
Congregations are notorious for hanging on to things well beyond the point of usefulness. It is as if we have an innate fear of throwing away something that might be used once, by an unidentified person, at an undetermined time in the future, for an unspecified purpose. Or we fear that discarding an item will offend a member whose great-grandmother used the item three generations previous to perform a task that we no longer do, but it was important to the great-grandmother who passed away 25 year ago.
Through the years, I have learned that the University congregation has a real acumen in this realm. We have kept things that no current member even knows what they are or what they do. Recently, I learned just how special we are. Under our stairway, I found a large box that was filled with a bunch of smaller boxes. The smaller boxes were completely empty. Who knows how long we have kept this box of empty boxes!
Astonished at my discovery, I began to ponder how some folks treat their lives like congregations often treat storage space. They fill up their lives with things that are no longer useful or are simply empty of value.
Sometimes we can be guilty of trying to live through memories. Those memories may be of great success and joy, but they are still memories. Paul wrote, “one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…” (Philippians 3:13). Good or bad, those memories can teach or comfort, but they are all behind. Success in life lies ahead regardless of the past. We all need to continually press on toward the goal.
Others fill the space of their lives with emptiness. This is not their intention, but they fail to recognize true value verses vanity. A life only has a certain amount of space. Unfortunately, folks often fill that space with empty boxes because of failed judgment. John wrote, “ For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 17 And the world is passing away...” (1 John 2:16-17). These things, which so many of us chase after, are in the end but empty boxes taking up useful space.
Beloved brethren, we need to fill the space of our lives with things that bring growth, strength, and success. Paul prayed for the Colossian brethren that they “may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord...” (Colossians 1:9-10). Filling our lives with the proper things of true substance will nurture our growth toward what God would have us to be. Paul wrote of the Roman brethren, “I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, also able to admonish one another,” (Romans 15:14). When are lives are filled with substance and we diligently serve, we can know that our “labor is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15 15:58).
Through the years, I have learned that the University congregation has a real acumen in this realm. We have kept things that no current member even knows what they are or what they do. Recently, I learned just how special we are. Under our stairway, I found a large box that was filled with a bunch of smaller boxes. The smaller boxes were completely empty. Who knows how long we have kept this box of empty boxes!
Astonished at my discovery, I began to ponder how some folks treat their lives like congregations often treat storage space. They fill up their lives with things that are no longer useful or are simply empty of value.
Sometimes we can be guilty of trying to live through memories. Those memories may be of great success and joy, but they are still memories. Paul wrote, “one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…” (Philippians 3:13). Good or bad, those memories can teach or comfort, but they are all behind. Success in life lies ahead regardless of the past. We all need to continually press on toward the goal.
Others fill the space of their lives with emptiness. This is not their intention, but they fail to recognize true value verses vanity. A life only has a certain amount of space. Unfortunately, folks often fill that space with empty boxes because of failed judgment. John wrote, “ For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 17 And the world is passing away...” (1 John 2:16-17). These things, which so many of us chase after, are in the end but empty boxes taking up useful space.
Beloved brethren, we need to fill the space of our lives with things that bring growth, strength, and success. Paul prayed for the Colossian brethren that they “may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord...” (Colossians 1:9-10). Filling our lives with the proper things of true substance will nurture our growth toward what God would have us to be. Paul wrote of the Roman brethren, “I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, also able to admonish one another,” (Romans 15:14). When are lives are filled with substance and we diligently serve, we can know that our “labor is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15 15:58).
We Would Love To Help You With That
Neal Thurman
December 17, 2017
Over the last several months, my wife and I have been seeking the means and manipulating expenditures in an effort to purchase our younger son a dependable vehicle that will carry him through college and beyond. Through internet research, he and I have literally looked at hundreds of cars, (please, no one call me and tell me that you have the perfect car for him ).
Websites exist that will compare and reveal what others have paid for a particular vehicle. Last Friday, I was researching on one such site and decided to compare the price of a new vehicle to the slightly used ones I had been reviewing. Shifting to new vehicles required selecting the particular car, my location, and personal contact information. (Word of advice based on experience: if you enjoy peace, stop when they ask for your phone number.)
It seemed as though my finger had not fully left the <enter> key before my phone rang the first time. In approximately 20 minutes, I had received calls from no less than 6 dealerships with each sales associate expressing how much they would love to assist me with my car buying experience. Two more called before lunch time and another that evening. Some talked as though they wanted to be my best friend. Most wanted to share detailed information about their current inventory. One was particularly aggressive and pressed to set up an appointment that day so he could show me how much he could help me. They all wanted me to know they were available with the sole purpose of serving my needs. They were each undaunted by me saying I was not ready to buy, but was only researching prices and any end of year deals. Three have called a second time and one has called me now three times. “Do you want to build a snowman, I mean car?”
As I considered whether to answer the phone when it rings, I pondered over what might happen if we, Christians, had the drive of car salesman when it comes to evangelizing the world around us. I am not suggesting that we inundate people with phone calls and pressure tactics, but what if we pounced with a loving message when someone expressed a bit of interest in the saving power of the gospel. We, myself included, often worry about offending or annoying a person before we have the chance to teach them. This is a reasonable consideration, but it must have limits. It is true that these salesmen have annoyed me, but I admit if I were to buy a new car, it would likely be sold by the one of them that most effectively reached out to me. Remember, they were not going to sale me a car by not calling. So, by calling, they have not diminished their sales.
Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved;…” (Mark 16:15-16). Jesus told his apostles and us, indirectly, to go offer what He had to offer to those who did not have it. In a way, He called for us to sell the lost on the idea of washing sins away and gaining salvation. This requires us to reach out to people and tell them we would love to help to be saved. He tells us that some will not want what He offers, but until we try to be of help, how will we know?
Websites exist that will compare and reveal what others have paid for a particular vehicle. Last Friday, I was researching on one such site and decided to compare the price of a new vehicle to the slightly used ones I had been reviewing. Shifting to new vehicles required selecting the particular car, my location, and personal contact information. (Word of advice based on experience: if you enjoy peace, stop when they ask for your phone number.)
It seemed as though my finger had not fully left the <enter> key before my phone rang the first time. In approximately 20 minutes, I had received calls from no less than 6 dealerships with each sales associate expressing how much they would love to assist me with my car buying experience. Two more called before lunch time and another that evening. Some talked as though they wanted to be my best friend. Most wanted to share detailed information about their current inventory. One was particularly aggressive and pressed to set up an appointment that day so he could show me how much he could help me. They all wanted me to know they were available with the sole purpose of serving my needs. They were each undaunted by me saying I was not ready to buy, but was only researching prices and any end of year deals. Three have called a second time and one has called me now three times. “Do you want to build a snowman, I mean car?”
As I considered whether to answer the phone when it rings, I pondered over what might happen if we, Christians, had the drive of car salesman when it comes to evangelizing the world around us. I am not suggesting that we inundate people with phone calls and pressure tactics, but what if we pounced with a loving message when someone expressed a bit of interest in the saving power of the gospel. We, myself included, often worry about offending or annoying a person before we have the chance to teach them. This is a reasonable consideration, but it must have limits. It is true that these salesmen have annoyed me, but I admit if I were to buy a new car, it would likely be sold by the one of them that most effectively reached out to me. Remember, they were not going to sale me a car by not calling. So, by calling, they have not diminished their sales.
Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved;…” (Mark 16:15-16). Jesus told his apostles and us, indirectly, to go offer what He had to offer to those who did not have it. In a way, He called for us to sell the lost on the idea of washing sins away and gaining salvation. This requires us to reach out to people and tell them we would love to help to be saved. He tells us that some will not want what He offers, but until we try to be of help, how will we know?
Critical Reception
Neal Thurman
December 10, 2017
We speak often of the manner with which we ought to approach a brother who has or continues to sin. This is vitally important and should be given serious consideration for the scripture says, “...you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1.
Yet, another side of that coin should also be considered. How ought we to respond when admonished or even rebuked for wrongdoing? This is also revealed in scripture. In 2 Samuel 12:13, David responded to the rebuke of Nathan with a clear acknowledgement and acceptance of responsibility for his sinful deeds. In Galatians 2:11ff, Paul notes the fact that he “withstood Peter to his face,” but later in Peter’s writings he would acknowledged Paul as a “beloved brother” and commended his work and teaching for the Lord, (2 Peter 3:15).
This is not to say that every time a person or even a brother throws criticism our way that we are to immediately bow in penance. The fact that criticism is extended is not evidence that a wrong has been committed. The Apostle Paul was often criticized for thing that were either untrue or unaccepted by his accusers. Jews accused him of defiling the temple by bringing Greeks into it. Notice what the scripture says in Acts 21:29, “...whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.” This is only example. Later Paul would say to King Agrippa, “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews,” Acts 26:2. So, it is acceptable and reasonable to defend oneself against false or malicious accusation. Sadly, much criticism often resonates from those who have no idea what they are talking about or they have a portion of truth and fill in the rest. Even worse, like the Jews with Paul, some folks have their own agenda for throwing around criticism A determination of truth and accuracy can be righteously made before any response is needed.
Still, as with the David and Peter, some admonitions are warranted and necessary. In such cases, the recipient should listen with readiness and should respond first by humbling oneself (James 4:7). Without humility we will never truly appreciate our wrongdoing and thus will be ill prepared to amend it. Next, a Christian should be moved with godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10) and yearn for whatever recompense that is possible. Of course, we recognize that some things cannot be undone. Then one must take the actions of repentance. Repentance is not a concept, but an action. The prodigal son repented when he actually arose and went to his father and confessed (Luke 15:20). This repentance needs to include a confession of sin that the same may be forgiven (1 John 1:9). This forgiven one should then give thanks to God for brethren who have enough love and courage to confront him with the truth. It sure wouldn’t hurt to give that brother a personal thank you as well.
Let us seek to have godly attitudes in all things, even when being criticized.
Yet, another side of that coin should also be considered. How ought we to respond when admonished or even rebuked for wrongdoing? This is also revealed in scripture. In 2 Samuel 12:13, David responded to the rebuke of Nathan with a clear acknowledgement and acceptance of responsibility for his sinful deeds. In Galatians 2:11ff, Paul notes the fact that he “withstood Peter to his face,” but later in Peter’s writings he would acknowledged Paul as a “beloved brother” and commended his work and teaching for the Lord, (2 Peter 3:15).
This is not to say that every time a person or even a brother throws criticism our way that we are to immediately bow in penance. The fact that criticism is extended is not evidence that a wrong has been committed. The Apostle Paul was often criticized for thing that were either untrue or unaccepted by his accusers. Jews accused him of defiling the temple by bringing Greeks into it. Notice what the scripture says in Acts 21:29, “...whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.” This is only example. Later Paul would say to King Agrippa, “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews,” Acts 26:2. So, it is acceptable and reasonable to defend oneself against false or malicious accusation. Sadly, much criticism often resonates from those who have no idea what they are talking about or they have a portion of truth and fill in the rest. Even worse, like the Jews with Paul, some folks have their own agenda for throwing around criticism A determination of truth and accuracy can be righteously made before any response is needed.
Still, as with the David and Peter, some admonitions are warranted and necessary. In such cases, the recipient should listen with readiness and should respond first by humbling oneself (James 4:7). Without humility we will never truly appreciate our wrongdoing and thus will be ill prepared to amend it. Next, a Christian should be moved with godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10) and yearn for whatever recompense that is possible. Of course, we recognize that some things cannot be undone. Then one must take the actions of repentance. Repentance is not a concept, but an action. The prodigal son repented when he actually arose and went to his father and confessed (Luke 15:20). This repentance needs to include a confession of sin that the same may be forgiven (1 John 1:9). This forgiven one should then give thanks to God for brethren who have enough love and courage to confront him with the truth. It sure wouldn’t hurt to give that brother a personal thank you as well.
Let us seek to have godly attitudes in all things, even when being criticized.
Just Brothers and Sisters
Neal Thurman
December 3, 2017
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:10)
Last Friday afternoon, I received a phone call from Brother Dan Manual in regard to a couple of Crocket Road members, mother and daughter, who had recently been involved in a car accident. The mother, 89 years of age, had suffered several injuries and had been recovering at Trinity Mother Francis Hospital. She had reached the point that she was to be moved to a rehab facility. Her daughter was going to be able to stay with her at the rehab, but was not allowed to ride the home’s transport bus. So, Dan asked me if I would be willing to pick the daughter up and drive her to the rehab center. Of course, I agreed, and a couple of phone conversations later we had a time set.
Shortly after I arrived, a woman I had never met knocked on the window of my car and asked, “Are you Neal?”
I greeted her and got out of the car to help her load her bags into my car. A kind young gentleman accompanied her pushing the cart with her bags and flowers. Looking a bit puzzled the young man asked, “Do you two know each other?”
You see, Miss Angela and I do not look much like one another. You could say that we are not on the same end of the spectrum when it comes to appearance. Yet, without missing a beat of handing her possessions to a man she had never met, Miss Angela said definitively, “No, we’re just brother and sister in Christ.”
I paused to smile and ponder the response. I would very likely have gone to pick up a friend of Dan’s if he had asked, doing so for brethren was a given. Yet, it was the matter-of-fact nature of the statement, “We’re just brother and sister in Christ,” that caught my attention. It carried with it the implied conclusion that this sufficiently answered every question. Maybe it said everything. We do not need to be blood-kin, we are together covered by divine blood (Revelation 1:5). We do not have to know each other personally, for we know and are known by the same Good Shepherd (John 10:11-28). We do not have to look alike, for by grace we are clothed in the same Lord and Savior (Galatians 3:27). We do not have to come from the same place, for we are a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9) We do not have to come from the same family, for we are part of God’s family (Romans 8:15).
“We’re just brother and sister in Christ.” Enough said!
Missing The Greater
Neal Thurman
November 19, 2017
The Thanksgiving holiday has a special charm to me. It is not commercialized like some other days of celebration. It promotes family and togetherness and the simple concept of being thankful. Of course, I recognize that sometimes “family” means headaches and “togetherness” has its own unique form of stress, but these are blessings nonetheless. I also clearly understand that thankfulness should not be exclusive to one day or weekend, but rather a constant and habitual consideration. Still, it is good to be reminded of the need for thanksgiving to our God and Father.
Recently, I have sought to observe or perceive what it is that folks are thankful for and what it is that diminishes their thankfulness. Theses observations have led me to conclude that even Christians are far too focused on material possessions, earthly signs of success or achievement, and social or professional status. I’m afraid that modern day Christians have fallen prey to the snare of seeking the things that the unbelieving seek, (1 Timothy 6:10). Are the powerful and famous who have no relationship with their children truly successful? Should the man of great professional achievement and wealth, who decided to sacrifice a relationship with God in order to give himself to his work, look at his life with joy, (Matthew 16:26). I am afraid that many Christians, if asked to identify a successful individual, would choose the wealthy over the faithful.
Material possessions are blessings, but are certainly not the most important things in life. My family never had much materially when I was growing up, and there were times when I wished I could have some of the things that other kids had. Yet, I have never, even for one moment, wondered whether my mother and father loved me. I have never, even for one moment, thought that they cared for anything, except the Lord, more than me. I have come to realize how rare this is. They taught me to love the Lord more than myself. They taught me to be respectful and considerate of others regardless of their status, ethnicity, or position. They taught me that it was better to suffer loss than to take advantage. They taught me that doing good was its own reward, especially when only God and I know about it. The world can keep its wealth, I choose their love! I will be a success if I follow their teachings.
This is even more true with God. We are loved by God beyond what words can tell, (Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 9:15). He provides us with teaching that if followed will bring about great success, (Matthew 7:21). The apostles rejoiced when they suffered in the name of Jesus, (Acts 5:41). Paul counted worldly status and notoriety as rubbish to gain Christ, (Philippians 4:3-8). Jesus said that he who overcomes will be given power over the nations, (Revelation 2:26).
Brethren, when we bow to give thanks to God, it is fine to be thankful for our material blessing, but let us not miss the greater. Let us be thankful to God for those things that really matter. Those things that shape and change lives! Remember to always give thanks for that which will go beyond this earthly life!
Recently, I have sought to observe or perceive what it is that folks are thankful for and what it is that diminishes their thankfulness. Theses observations have led me to conclude that even Christians are far too focused on material possessions, earthly signs of success or achievement, and social or professional status. I’m afraid that modern day Christians have fallen prey to the snare of seeking the things that the unbelieving seek, (1 Timothy 6:10). Are the powerful and famous who have no relationship with their children truly successful? Should the man of great professional achievement and wealth, who decided to sacrifice a relationship with God in order to give himself to his work, look at his life with joy, (Matthew 16:26). I am afraid that many Christians, if asked to identify a successful individual, would choose the wealthy over the faithful.
Material possessions are blessings, but are certainly not the most important things in life. My family never had much materially when I was growing up, and there were times when I wished I could have some of the things that other kids had. Yet, I have never, even for one moment, wondered whether my mother and father loved me. I have never, even for one moment, thought that they cared for anything, except the Lord, more than me. I have come to realize how rare this is. They taught me to love the Lord more than myself. They taught me to be respectful and considerate of others regardless of their status, ethnicity, or position. They taught me that it was better to suffer loss than to take advantage. They taught me that doing good was its own reward, especially when only God and I know about it. The world can keep its wealth, I choose their love! I will be a success if I follow their teachings.
This is even more true with God. We are loved by God beyond what words can tell, (Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 9:15). He provides us with teaching that if followed will bring about great success, (Matthew 7:21). The apostles rejoiced when they suffered in the name of Jesus, (Acts 5:41). Paul counted worldly status and notoriety as rubbish to gain Christ, (Philippians 4:3-8). Jesus said that he who overcomes will be given power over the nations, (Revelation 2:26).
Brethren, when we bow to give thanks to God, it is fine to be thankful for our material blessing, but let us not miss the greater. Let us be thankful to God for those things that really matter. Those things that shape and change lives! Remember to always give thanks for that which will go beyond this earthly life!
Not In Kind
Neal Thurman
November 12, 2017
Another tragic event within our borders has shaken our sense of peace and security. This is especially true when heinous violence invades places of worship, for it shatters the image of a safe haven when seeking to worship God. In the sensibility of our minds, some places and events are supposed to be off-limits to violence, hatred, and villainy. When this view of safety is disrupted, it leaves us confused and unsure.
Following such events, we are left to ask, “Why?” No reasonable answers are available for this question. This fact leaves a deep sense of frustration for we cannot understand how anyone could commit such acts. Truth be known, there is no reasonable consideration as to why someone or a group would maliciously take the lives of innocent people. The only answer is that sometimes men are truly evil.
Once we recognize the inability for understanding, we turn our attention to what we should now do. Some will become overwhelmed by fear of future events, while others will consider recompense and retaliation. The exasperation of confusion and frustration can lead to obsession and adjustment to one’s own moral compass as to what is appropriate action to be taken. The temptation can be to return in kind.
These reactions may be considered reasonable by common human beings, but Christianity calls for a different response from God’s people. First, Christians are not to be diminished by fear. Paul wrote to Timothy, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind,” (2 Timothy 1:7). Paul would write to Corinthian Christians, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed,” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). God’s people must proceed with hope and faith.
Second, Christians must not give place to hatred or a will to return harm for harm. Jesus said, “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you…” (Matthew 5:44). Paul wrote of the apostles, “Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; 13 being defamed, we entreat,” (1 Corinthians 4:12-13). It should be the purpose of God’s people to do good to all men, (Galatians 6:10).
Let us as a people, the people of God, not to be broken of spirit and heart. But rather let us stand in the face of evil and act as beacons of light in the midst of darkness. Thus, overcoming evil with good as Paul called for in Romans 12:21. Let us not respond in kind.
Following such events, we are left to ask, “Why?” No reasonable answers are available for this question. This fact leaves a deep sense of frustration for we cannot understand how anyone could commit such acts. Truth be known, there is no reasonable consideration as to why someone or a group would maliciously take the lives of innocent people. The only answer is that sometimes men are truly evil.
Once we recognize the inability for understanding, we turn our attention to what we should now do. Some will become overwhelmed by fear of future events, while others will consider recompense and retaliation. The exasperation of confusion and frustration can lead to obsession and adjustment to one’s own moral compass as to what is appropriate action to be taken. The temptation can be to return in kind.
These reactions may be considered reasonable by common human beings, but Christianity calls for a different response from God’s people. First, Christians are not to be diminished by fear. Paul wrote to Timothy, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind,” (2 Timothy 1:7). Paul would write to Corinthian Christians, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed,” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). God’s people must proceed with hope and faith.
Second, Christians must not give place to hatred or a will to return harm for harm. Jesus said, “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you…” (Matthew 5:44). Paul wrote of the apostles, “Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; 13 being defamed, we entreat,” (1 Corinthians 4:12-13). It should be the purpose of God’s people to do good to all men, (Galatians 6:10).
Let us as a people, the people of God, not to be broken of spirit and heart. But rather let us stand in the face of evil and act as beacons of light in the midst of darkness. Thus, overcoming evil with good as Paul called for in Romans 12:21. Let us not respond in kind.
Consequence of Truthful Words
Neal Thurman
November 5, 2017
It would seem reasonable to assume that speaking the truth would be appreciated by all and that doing so would bring one admiration and respect. Yet, we all know and the Bible confirms that this is not the case. In fact, the scriptures show us that serious consequences can follow the speaking of righteous truth. Consider a few examples.
Mark 6:18 recounts that, John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” This fact was absolutely true, and Herod did not even argue the fact. Yet, Herodias held it against him and wanted to kill him … (Mark 6:19). But Herod recognized John as a righteous and holy man, and was willing to listen to John’s teaching (Mark 6:20). Once again, no one disputes the truth of John’s words. Still, when Herod, in the foolishness of lust, offered the daughter of Herodias anything she wished (Mark 6:23), John faced the full consequence of speaking truth, as his head was delivered on a silver platter, (Mark 6:27).
Acts 7:51-53 Stephen preached, “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who foretold the coming of the Just One, of whom you now have become the betrayers and murderers, 53 who have received the law by the direction of angels and have not kept it.” These things were all true. As with John, the hearers did not dispute the words of Stephen. Rather, they rushed upon him and stoned him to death (Acts 7:57-60).
In Acts 22, Paul was able to gain the attention of a mob by speaking to them in Hebrew (Acts 22:2). They listened as recounted his own sin against the Lord and his conversion to Christ. Yet, in Acts 22:21, He revealed that Jesus had sent him to preach to the Gentiles. Acts 22:22 And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!”
Our intention is by no means to discourage anyone from speaking the truth, but rather to point out that everything comes at a cost, even truth. As our PC world presses into the church, many have decided that truth can be made palatable to everyone’s viewpoint. This is not the case. The truth has never been accepted by all, and will not be today. Unfortunately, sinners would often rather kill the messenger than apply the message to their lives. Yet, if we could ask John, Stephen, and Paul, I would submit to you that each of them would readily accept these same consequences again in order to please the Lord.
Mark 6:18 recounts that, John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” This fact was absolutely true, and Herod did not even argue the fact. Yet, Herodias held it against him and wanted to kill him … (Mark 6:19). But Herod recognized John as a righteous and holy man, and was willing to listen to John’s teaching (Mark 6:20). Once again, no one disputes the truth of John’s words. Still, when Herod, in the foolishness of lust, offered the daughter of Herodias anything she wished (Mark 6:23), John faced the full consequence of speaking truth, as his head was delivered on a silver platter, (Mark 6:27).
Acts 7:51-53 Stephen preached, “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who foretold the coming of the Just One, of whom you now have become the betrayers and murderers, 53 who have received the law by the direction of angels and have not kept it.” These things were all true. As with John, the hearers did not dispute the words of Stephen. Rather, they rushed upon him and stoned him to death (Acts 7:57-60).
In Acts 22, Paul was able to gain the attention of a mob by speaking to them in Hebrew (Acts 22:2). They listened as recounted his own sin against the Lord and his conversion to Christ. Yet, in Acts 22:21, He revealed that Jesus had sent him to preach to the Gentiles. Acts 22:22 And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!”
Our intention is by no means to discourage anyone from speaking the truth, but rather to point out that everything comes at a cost, even truth. As our PC world presses into the church, many have decided that truth can be made palatable to everyone’s viewpoint. This is not the case. The truth has never been accepted by all, and will not be today. Unfortunately, sinners would often rather kill the messenger than apply the message to their lives. Yet, if we could ask John, Stephen, and Paul, I would submit to you that each of them would readily accept these same consequences again in order to please the Lord.
Whether Great Or Small
Neal Thurman
October 29, 2017
Luke 16:10 “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.”
A week ago Thursday, I officiated a Junior Varsity football game at an area high school. The home team thoroughly dominated the game. With two minutes left to play in the game, the home team scored to go ahead 39 to 0. On the extra point attempt, a visiting team player broke through the line and blocked the kick. Remarkably, the ball kind of pinned itself between his arm and torso. So with ball in hand, he bolted past the kicker, holder, and myself. I groaned because it meant that I had to run the length of field for a defensive 2-point conversion that was meaningless. I started to casually chase the player running by himself, and then a home team player dashed past me. It was the holder, who had been kneeling on one knee at the time of the kick. He chased his opponent for 88 yards and tackled him at the 2-yard line preventing even irrelevant points from being scored against his team.
The game mercifully ended only a few plays later.
The supreme effort of the young man was foremost in the thoughts of the other officials and myself as we talked walking back to our cars. The words of Luke 16:10 came to my mind. If this young man was willing to run as hard and fast as he could over the length of the field to prevent points that would have no impact on the outcome of the game, what would he do when it really mattered?
I believe we Christians are often guilty of waiting until we think something really matters. We evaluate importance before we decide to expend energy or effort. Perhaps this starts with us aggrandizing those who are able to accomplish a feat that we deem important, while passing over those who tirelessly and faithfully fulfill tasks that go unnoticed until they are left undone. The latter do not work or serve for praise sake, but rather because they can and it is needed.
Brethren, we should do what is good and helpful regardless of the circumstance. We should not need knowledge of the score in order to decide on preventing our opponent’s success. We should give full effort whether the situation is great or small! Knowing, he who performs at full capacity in the least of matters will certainly give his all in the great.
A week ago Thursday, I officiated a Junior Varsity football game at an area high school. The home team thoroughly dominated the game. With two minutes left to play in the game, the home team scored to go ahead 39 to 0. On the extra point attempt, a visiting team player broke through the line and blocked the kick. Remarkably, the ball kind of pinned itself between his arm and torso. So with ball in hand, he bolted past the kicker, holder, and myself. I groaned because it meant that I had to run the length of field for a defensive 2-point conversion that was meaningless. I started to casually chase the player running by himself, and then a home team player dashed past me. It was the holder, who had been kneeling on one knee at the time of the kick. He chased his opponent for 88 yards and tackled him at the 2-yard line preventing even irrelevant points from being scored against his team.
The game mercifully ended only a few plays later.
The supreme effort of the young man was foremost in the thoughts of the other officials and myself as we talked walking back to our cars. The words of Luke 16:10 came to my mind. If this young man was willing to run as hard and fast as he could over the length of the field to prevent points that would have no impact on the outcome of the game, what would he do when it really mattered?
I believe we Christians are often guilty of waiting until we think something really matters. We evaluate importance before we decide to expend energy or effort. Perhaps this starts with us aggrandizing those who are able to accomplish a feat that we deem important, while passing over those who tirelessly and faithfully fulfill tasks that go unnoticed until they are left undone. The latter do not work or serve for praise sake, but rather because they can and it is needed.
Brethren, we should do what is good and helpful regardless of the circumstance. We should not need knowledge of the score in order to decide on preventing our opponent’s success. We should give full effort whether the situation is great or small! Knowing, he who performs at full capacity in the least of matters will certainly give his all in the great.
Even When We Do Not Understand
Neal Thurman
September 24, 2017
Trust can manifest itself in many forms. We might trust a person’s ability to fulfill a task because we have observed such on some previous occasion. We may also trust one to be truthful because they have exhibited the characteristics of integrity. Some may even extend trust based upon the fact that the person agrees with one’s view of how things ought to be. (By the way, this is how many people are misled by smooth talkers such as politicians and the like.)
Yet, the highest form of trust is realized when, based upon character, we follow or obey even though we cannot see or understand the outcome. When we place our hand in theirs and allow them to take us where we cannot see, we truly trust them. We trust they will take us where and how we need to go. This level of trust is hard.
The young child needs to trust that Mom and Dad are doing what is best in the long run, even when he does not like the process. The foot soldier needs to be able to trust that his generals and commander are planning and supplying directions that we bring about victory at the lowest possible cost. And the child of God must fully trust that God will do and command that which is best. This is true even when we don’t understand the why?
In 1 Kings 17, Elijah, having just proclaimed a drought on Israel, came to widow woman and asked her for a morsel of bread. The poor widow replied that she had no bread but only enough flour and oil for her and her son to have one last meal. And Elijah said to her, “Do not fear; go and do as you have said, but make me a small cake from it first, and bring it to me; and afterward make some for yourself and your son.” (1 Kings 17:13) Elijah went on to proclaim that the flour and oil would not run out until the drought was ended (1 Kings 17:14).
I would like to suggest that the widow did not understand how these things could be. Yet, the scriptures tell us, “So she went away and did according to the word of Elijah;” (1 Kings 17:15). She obeyed the man of God even though she could not see how this could be. This wasn’t something she could test or try out. It was a do-or-do-not situation. She chose to trust in Elijah. It was the right decision to make (cf. 1 King 17:15ff).
Let us each ask self, “Am I willing to follow and obey the Lord even when I do not understand?” We will if we trust!
Pressing the Reset Button?
Neal Thurman
August 20, 2017
A dear sister recently told me that sometimes she wishes that she could just press the reset button. This stuck with me and I pondered the precepts of such a comment. A reset takes one back to a set point in which all functions were operating properly. The reset then instantly eliminates any errors or disturbances that happened in the interim so that everything is able work on a clean slate. My sister was, of course, referring to those times when, for some reason or another, a disturbance arises in our relationships with one another.
We know the Bible tells us of God’s intentions, “I will be their God, and they shall be My people...For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more,” (Jeremiah 31:33-34). God has the ability to do a complete reset. He has the amazing power to completely remove memories from His thoughts. Yet, He did not impart this ability on us in creation. We must find a way to overcome obstacles of heartache and guilt without the luxury of a reset.
Since we cannot reset, we have to work at cleaning the slate and finding desired functionality. This effort seldom comes easily and I would suggest that it never happens accidentally. This is true in most circumstance regardless of which side the fence one stands. Yet, we should be motivated by the desire of the Lord.
Matthew 5:23-24 tells us that the Lord desires that we seek forgiveness and reconciliation with brethren. In the same sermon, Jesus expresses His strong desire for us to grant our forgiveness , (Matthew 6:14-15). The Lord is also plain in describing His wish that this be a continual effort (Matthew 18:21-22; Luke 17:3-4). Thus, Jesus has an expectation for us to work at it.
I like to think of it as putting something in the rear-view mirror. We continue on, and for a little while it lingers in our gaze into the mirror, but then disappears from sight. Do not slow down, let it disappear. Image that you are driving and another driver does something reckless, almost causing you to have an accident. First, you may be frighten, then angry, and finally relieved that it was an “almost.” The next few miles your mind may be filled with the memory of that fear, but as the scenery changes your focus drifts to other and better things. Now, if we get on the phone to tell all our friends about the excitement, it is going to stay fresh in our minds. This is an understandable reaction, but it inhibits our ability to let it fade in the mirror.
The same is true in our relationships. The things we think and talk about will remain fresh. Talking about a kindness that was shown or the great work that was done will keep these things in mind. Talking about frustration, disappointment, and hurt caused by ourselves or other will likewise keep those things in the forefront of thought.
We may not have the good sister’s reset button, but with a dash of diligence, a pinch of humility, and a whole bunch of brotherly love we can set the way straight and smooth out the bumps. Maybe we could press the love button, instead! “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins,’” (1 Peter 4:8).
We know the Bible tells us of God’s intentions, “I will be their God, and they shall be My people...For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more,” (Jeremiah 31:33-34). God has the ability to do a complete reset. He has the amazing power to completely remove memories from His thoughts. Yet, He did not impart this ability on us in creation. We must find a way to overcome obstacles of heartache and guilt without the luxury of a reset.
Since we cannot reset, we have to work at cleaning the slate and finding desired functionality. This effort seldom comes easily and I would suggest that it never happens accidentally. This is true in most circumstance regardless of which side the fence one stands. Yet, we should be motivated by the desire of the Lord.
Matthew 5:23-24 tells us that the Lord desires that we seek forgiveness and reconciliation with brethren. In the same sermon, Jesus expresses His strong desire for us to grant our forgiveness , (Matthew 6:14-15). The Lord is also plain in describing His wish that this be a continual effort (Matthew 18:21-22; Luke 17:3-4). Thus, Jesus has an expectation for us to work at it.
I like to think of it as putting something in the rear-view mirror. We continue on, and for a little while it lingers in our gaze into the mirror, but then disappears from sight. Do not slow down, let it disappear. Image that you are driving and another driver does something reckless, almost causing you to have an accident. First, you may be frighten, then angry, and finally relieved that it was an “almost.” The next few miles your mind may be filled with the memory of that fear, but as the scenery changes your focus drifts to other and better things. Now, if we get on the phone to tell all our friends about the excitement, it is going to stay fresh in our minds. This is an understandable reaction, but it inhibits our ability to let it fade in the mirror.
The same is true in our relationships. The things we think and talk about will remain fresh. Talking about a kindness that was shown or the great work that was done will keep these things in mind. Talking about frustration, disappointment, and hurt caused by ourselves or other will likewise keep those things in the forefront of thought.
We may not have the good sister’s reset button, but with a dash of diligence, a pinch of humility, and a whole bunch of brotherly love we can set the way straight and smooth out the bumps. Maybe we could press the love button, instead! “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins,’” (1 Peter 4:8).
Make Sure They Are Missed
Neal Thurman
August 13, 2017
The fatal car accident that occurred on Loop 49 last Saturday afternoon has left me with a surreal feeling that has lingered in my mind. The 20 year-old man who lost his life had only a few minutes before his death been in attendance at a football officials clinic of which I was in attendance. The vehicle he drove was similar in model to my own and I traveled in the other direction on Loop 49 a short time later. I did not know the young man. To my knowledge, I never even made his acquaintance. Yet, the thought of this tragic event has lingered with me.
Obviously, we think of James 4’s description of human life as a vapor that appears for a little while and vanishes away. This is not the lingering thought in my mind, but rather that he never reached home. As stated, I do not know of his family situation, but I would suppose that someone was expecting him to return home on the hot and sunny Saturday afternoon. What a disturbing wait, followed by a life-altering realization! For them, this day will forever be a marked moment in time. My heart aches for them.
Still, there are others in the world, who knew and liked this young man, who yet unaware of his tragic end. These have fallen out-of-touch in his life. One day, at a class reunion or ballgame, they will ask, “I wonder what ever happen to…” They will be shocked to learn of his death, but will proceed with their lives unaffected. Their thoughts will be sad, but he will not be missed by them.
I am well aware of the fact that this is simply the nature of life on earth. People come and go through our lives and we often lose touch. It is natural and unavoidable. Yet, as I consider our immediate spiritual family, I am afraid it happens too easily. The poignant question was asked in a recent meeting about those who no longer worship with us: “Do you know why they’re not here anymore?” If we can’t answer that question, then it is likely that we do not truly miss them. We might miss the number on the board or dollars in the collection, but we do not genuinely miss the person.
We might say that we do not know them very well, but we do not have to be best friends to miss someone. This is not to mention that we could work at knowing one another better. The fact that they are relatively new or they sit on the other side of the building are really not very good explanations for not noticing their absence. I, like most of you, am guilty of allowing my circle of attention and perception to remain too small. In so doing, I failed some of my brethren by not missing them as I should when they disappear. I pray that the Lord will help to grow in this area of spiritual development.
Brethren, let us make every effort to keep relationships and personal knowledge alive and updated. We are not going to be buddies with everyone spiritual sibling, but let us give all diligence to see that no brother-in-Christ disappears without even being missed.
Obviously, we think of James 4’s description of human life as a vapor that appears for a little while and vanishes away. This is not the lingering thought in my mind, but rather that he never reached home. As stated, I do not know of his family situation, but I would suppose that someone was expecting him to return home on the hot and sunny Saturday afternoon. What a disturbing wait, followed by a life-altering realization! For them, this day will forever be a marked moment in time. My heart aches for them.
Still, there are others in the world, who knew and liked this young man, who yet unaware of his tragic end. These have fallen out-of-touch in his life. One day, at a class reunion or ballgame, they will ask, “I wonder what ever happen to…” They will be shocked to learn of his death, but will proceed with their lives unaffected. Their thoughts will be sad, but he will not be missed by them.
I am well aware of the fact that this is simply the nature of life on earth. People come and go through our lives and we often lose touch. It is natural and unavoidable. Yet, as I consider our immediate spiritual family, I am afraid it happens too easily. The poignant question was asked in a recent meeting about those who no longer worship with us: “Do you know why they’re not here anymore?” If we can’t answer that question, then it is likely that we do not truly miss them. We might miss the number on the board or dollars in the collection, but we do not genuinely miss the person.
We might say that we do not know them very well, but we do not have to be best friends to miss someone. This is not to mention that we could work at knowing one another better. The fact that they are relatively new or they sit on the other side of the building are really not very good explanations for not noticing their absence. I, like most of you, am guilty of allowing my circle of attention and perception to remain too small. In so doing, I failed some of my brethren by not missing them as I should when they disappear. I pray that the Lord will help to grow in this area of spiritual development.
Brethren, let us make every effort to keep relationships and personal knowledge alive and updated. We are not going to be buddies with everyone spiritual sibling, but let us give all diligence to see that no brother-in-Christ disappears without even being missed.
Starving in the Midst of a Feast
Neal Thurman
June 25, 2017
Why do so many of us struggle with living faithful lives of righteousness? We want to recognize that Christian living is at times quite difficult. It always requires a measure of sacrifice and often means overcoming suffering. Paul spoke of the Apostles saying, “To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless,” (1 Corinthians 4:11). Thus, it is not easy, but these were faithful and strong. Why is there such a throng today who struggle, wander, and faint?
Many reasons or causes may exist, but one prominent cause is that many are malnourished for the word. This is particularly saddening in our culture. We have unprecedented access to and availability of copies of God’s holy word. With little effort we can find one who loves the truth with whom to study. Effective study guides are readily available for little or no cost. Yet, many of us are starving to death in the midst of a great feast of saving truth.
Parents, teachers, and preachers can prepare the feast and put it on the plate, but it is beyond their abilities to make us eat. We must have the desire and willingness to consume what is set before us. We need the attitude of Jeremiah who wrote, “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; for I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts,” (Jeremiah 15:26). The prophet fed on the word of God and was filled with joy and rejoicing. Too many today nibble at the crust of the bread and find certain things (restrictions and responsibilities) hard to swallow, but do not feed on the whole counsel of God in order to receive the rejoicing of the heart.
Is your spiritual life shaken and unstable? Is your Christian life less than fulfilling and lacking in comfort? Maybe it is because your spirit is starving. Are you failing to nourish your hungry spirit? There is only one proper food for recovery. No magic spiritual energy bar exist. You must be filled with the sumptuous word of truth.
Beloved, why not cease the struggle of life and feed on the word that is able to save your soul (James 1:21) experiencing the rejoicing of your heart?
Many reasons or causes may exist, but one prominent cause is that many are malnourished for the word. This is particularly saddening in our culture. We have unprecedented access to and availability of copies of God’s holy word. With little effort we can find one who loves the truth with whom to study. Effective study guides are readily available for little or no cost. Yet, many of us are starving to death in the midst of a great feast of saving truth.
Parents, teachers, and preachers can prepare the feast and put it on the plate, but it is beyond their abilities to make us eat. We must have the desire and willingness to consume what is set before us. We need the attitude of Jeremiah who wrote, “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; for I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts,” (Jeremiah 15:26). The prophet fed on the word of God and was filled with joy and rejoicing. Too many today nibble at the crust of the bread and find certain things (restrictions and responsibilities) hard to swallow, but do not feed on the whole counsel of God in order to receive the rejoicing of the heart.
Is your spiritual life shaken and unstable? Is your Christian life less than fulfilling and lacking in comfort? Maybe it is because your spirit is starving. Are you failing to nourish your hungry spirit? There is only one proper food for recovery. No magic spiritual energy bar exist. You must be filled with the sumptuous word of truth.
Beloved, why not cease the struggle of life and feed on the word that is able to save your soul (James 1:21) experiencing the rejoicing of your heart?
Gutter Attention
Neal Thurman
May 14, 2017
This past Monday, I took the time to clean out the gutters on our house. It is not a fun or even satisfying job. Perhaps this is why the job was so overdue. Of course, it could be that I was hoping to get the job done by one of the two young men who help me to share my income with institutions of higher education. Whatever the reason, the gutters had not received the attention needed over the last few months. This is not good considering our neighbors large pine trees regularly deposit pine needles on our house. These needles wad together and restrict the flow of rainwater, especially in corners and at down pipes.
I started in an area that had been a problem area at times. I felt better about my procrastination when I found very little debris. My satisfaction was short lived as I moved around a corner found a nasty gob of needles and mud that almost filled the gutter to its brim. I moved around the house and found several of these restrictive clumps. In two areas, the gutter was completely clogged. Much to my chagrin, I found that water had gotten behind the gutter in these two places and damaged the fascia board. A lack of maintenance had now become a need for repair.
I began to lecture myself on the fact that careless disregard for an unenjoyable but necessary task had now turned into a need for costly repairs. It was not the gutters’ fault. They simply hang in place trying to do what it is they do. With proper attention, they effectively do their job of carrying rainwater, and even small debris, away from protected areas.
At the conclusion of the lecture, I began to ponder, “Do we have gutters around our lives, apparatus to carry harmful debris away from the foundation of our lives?” It was an interesting thought that grabbed my conscious mind as I completed the undesirable task.
We must live in a world that is full of contaminants and wicked rubble. Jesus prayed for His disciples, “I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one,” (John 17:15). Paul wrote of avoiding the sexually immoral, “Yet I certainly did mean with the sexually immoral people of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world,” (1 Corinthians 5:10). We are going to come into contact with corruption and contamination, and whether we like it or not, this often leaves a bit of undesirable residue. It may not be very much at any one time, but contacting filth will make one dirty. This muck and grime left in place will eventually build up and cause real and costly damage. Regular maintenance will keep everything in check and our spiritual gutters flowing free.
One may ask what maintenance is needed. Regular and consistent study of God’s word keeps all aspects of the Christian life in working order and performing effectively. The other means is significant contact with the faithful. Their righteousness will help to scrub off worldly contaminants. This contact is not sitting down in the same church building a couple of times a week. We need to have relationships with one another to help one another. Let’s maintain our spiritual house and avoid difficult future repairs!
I started in an area that had been a problem area at times. I felt better about my procrastination when I found very little debris. My satisfaction was short lived as I moved around a corner found a nasty gob of needles and mud that almost filled the gutter to its brim. I moved around the house and found several of these restrictive clumps. In two areas, the gutter was completely clogged. Much to my chagrin, I found that water had gotten behind the gutter in these two places and damaged the fascia board. A lack of maintenance had now become a need for repair.
I began to lecture myself on the fact that careless disregard for an unenjoyable but necessary task had now turned into a need for costly repairs. It was not the gutters’ fault. They simply hang in place trying to do what it is they do. With proper attention, they effectively do their job of carrying rainwater, and even small debris, away from protected areas.
At the conclusion of the lecture, I began to ponder, “Do we have gutters around our lives, apparatus to carry harmful debris away from the foundation of our lives?” It was an interesting thought that grabbed my conscious mind as I completed the undesirable task.
We must live in a world that is full of contaminants and wicked rubble. Jesus prayed for His disciples, “I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one,” (John 17:15). Paul wrote of avoiding the sexually immoral, “Yet I certainly did mean with the sexually immoral people of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world,” (1 Corinthians 5:10). We are going to come into contact with corruption and contamination, and whether we like it or not, this often leaves a bit of undesirable residue. It may not be very much at any one time, but contacting filth will make one dirty. This muck and grime left in place will eventually build up and cause real and costly damage. Regular maintenance will keep everything in check and our spiritual gutters flowing free.
One may ask what maintenance is needed. Regular and consistent study of God’s word keeps all aspects of the Christian life in working order and performing effectively. The other means is significant contact with the faithful. Their righteousness will help to scrub off worldly contaminants. This contact is not sitting down in the same church building a couple of times a week. We need to have relationships with one another to help one another. Let’s maintain our spiritual house and avoid difficult future repairs!
Precious In His Sight
Neal Thurman
April 16, 2017
It would seem that God knew that we would have days when we yearn for loved ones we could no longer reach and would not understand why they had to go. He knew we would have times when we would not know what to do in order to soothe the aching of our hearts full of sorrow. We know that He knew because he left us special words of comfort such as:
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalms 116:15
“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:13
I am sad today. This morning I learned that one of the most precious creatures to ever grace this planet had passed from this life. Upon learning the news, I was flooded with a plethora of emotion. I rejoice for her victory, but my heart is heavy with sorrow. I know that it is selfish, but I wish I could have just one more talk with her. I wish I could see her smile once more. I crave the soothing comfort of her gentle voice sharing tender encouraging words. Just once more, I would like to receive her words of wisdom. Alas, I cannot.
Rare indeed is the one of a pure heart, kind and gentle of character, and genuine goodness of spirit. Our beloved sister, Bennie Bynum, was all of these things and more. Regardless of the setting or who was present, where Miss Bennie was there was compassion and thoughtfulness. She patiently listened to our mourning, our complaints, our frustrations, and even our rants. She offered only comfort and understanding while never stoking the flames of our emotions. She listened to our anecdotes, our tells of family adventure, and our personal achievements. She willingly rejoiced in our satisfaction and shared in our exuberance with a smile. She listened with tenderheartedness to our most personal struggles and heartaches, and those private moments would always be kept private. She was truly special! She was a blessing to all who were graced with her presence.
I thank God that Miss Bennie passed through my life, for she touched my life and made me better. Through my tears, I struggle to find the words to adequately describe her and the life she lived. So, I will lean on the words of our Lord.
“Well done, good and faithful servant!”
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalms 116:15
“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:13
I am sad today. This morning I learned that one of the most precious creatures to ever grace this planet had passed from this life. Upon learning the news, I was flooded with a plethora of emotion. I rejoice for her victory, but my heart is heavy with sorrow. I know that it is selfish, but I wish I could have just one more talk with her. I wish I could see her smile once more. I crave the soothing comfort of her gentle voice sharing tender encouraging words. Just once more, I would like to receive her words of wisdom. Alas, I cannot.
Rare indeed is the one of a pure heart, kind and gentle of character, and genuine goodness of spirit. Our beloved sister, Bennie Bynum, was all of these things and more. Regardless of the setting or who was present, where Miss Bennie was there was compassion and thoughtfulness. She patiently listened to our mourning, our complaints, our frustrations, and even our rants. She offered only comfort and understanding while never stoking the flames of our emotions. She listened to our anecdotes, our tells of family adventure, and our personal achievements. She willingly rejoiced in our satisfaction and shared in our exuberance with a smile. She listened with tenderheartedness to our most personal struggles and heartaches, and those private moments would always be kept private. She was truly special! She was a blessing to all who were graced with her presence.
I thank God that Miss Bennie passed through my life, for she touched my life and made me better. Through my tears, I struggle to find the words to adequately describe her and the life she lived. So, I will lean on the words of our Lord.
“Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Letting Him Have It
Neal Thurman
April 2, 2017
Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
1 Peter 5:6-7 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
This life that we have been given is filled with many days of joy, but this same life is often disturbed by sorrow, suffering, and heartache. This certainly is not breaking news to any of us who have lived a few years. Sin, along with the weakness and even wickedness of man make heartache nearly inevitable for each one of us. The truth of these facts is readily accepted and understood by most of us. Recognition is not the primary problem. The challenge lies in our ability to move forward from the suffering, leaving it behind and depowering its influence in our lives.
Many scriptures, such as those above, offer the reassurance that our Heavenly Father has made provision for our care and peace in this life and one to that is to come. Intellectually, we can recognize these truths as well when we are in study and seeking biblical understanding. Yet, that intellectual exercise does not always translate into peace of heart. Too often, we try to give something to the Lord, but we cannot completely release our grip. It is not easy, but full trust requires letting go of control. The Lord can take care of those things beyond our ability to effect, but we gain the provided peace only when we let Him have it.
It is easy to say that we have cast our cares on the Lord. It is not so easy to actually do so, but we need to find the way. Part of this is realizing whether we have done so. If that heartache is right at the surface of our conscientiousness, we have not let Him have it. If the rush emotion floods our minds at the mention of an event or person, we have not let Him have it. If the heartache invades our peaceful moments of quiet contemplation, we have not let him have it.
This is not easy, but our God and Father cares for us and yearns to bring us comfort and peace. Even with all of His might, power, and love, He cannot force peace upon us. May we let Him have all of our cares!
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
1 Peter 5:6-7 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
This life that we have been given is filled with many days of joy, but this same life is often disturbed by sorrow, suffering, and heartache. This certainly is not breaking news to any of us who have lived a few years. Sin, along with the weakness and even wickedness of man make heartache nearly inevitable for each one of us. The truth of these facts is readily accepted and understood by most of us. Recognition is not the primary problem. The challenge lies in our ability to move forward from the suffering, leaving it behind and depowering its influence in our lives.
Many scriptures, such as those above, offer the reassurance that our Heavenly Father has made provision for our care and peace in this life and one to that is to come. Intellectually, we can recognize these truths as well when we are in study and seeking biblical understanding. Yet, that intellectual exercise does not always translate into peace of heart. Too often, we try to give something to the Lord, but we cannot completely release our grip. It is not easy, but full trust requires letting go of control. The Lord can take care of those things beyond our ability to effect, but we gain the provided peace only when we let Him have it.
It is easy to say that we have cast our cares on the Lord. It is not so easy to actually do so, but we need to find the way. Part of this is realizing whether we have done so. If that heartache is right at the surface of our conscientiousness, we have not let Him have it. If the rush emotion floods our minds at the mention of an event or person, we have not let Him have it. If the heartache invades our peaceful moments of quiet contemplation, we have not let him have it.
This is not easy, but our God and Father cares for us and yearns to bring us comfort and peace. Even with all of His might, power, and love, He cannot force peace upon us. May we let Him have all of our cares!
Life Is Too Short
Neal Thurman
March 26, 2017
Events of the past week brought a situation into question that caused me to be asked what my actions would be. Part of my answer included the statement, “Life is too short…” The conclusion of the statement is irrelevant because it did not provide an answer, but what about those words, “life is too short?”
We hear this statement attached with several conclusions. Life is too short to go through in uncomfortable shoes. Life is too short to waste worrying about what may never happen. Life is too short to live with regret. Even, life is too short wait on dessert. Many, many more are used, but what does it really mean?
First, it proclaims the limits of life’s duration. This implies a conclusion or an ending point. Of course, this is a scriptural principle. Hebrews 9:27 “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” The reality of life’s end should be recognized and remembered by every person. This should offer motivation to act on opportunities because no changes or growth can be achieved after that end (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
Second, it states that the time in life is minimal. Thus, the moments of that time should be seen as precious. The brevity of life suggests that it should never be treated flippantly or frivolously. James 4:13-14 “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”
Finally, it suggests that life’s time can be wasted. It can be burned up and squandered with interests or activities that have little or no merit. The scriptures tells that some words are idle (Matthew 12:31) and that even worship can be vain (Matthew 15:9). Thus, the merit of life’s activities should be given serious consideration.
All consideration being given there is a conclusion that should be drawn. Life is too short to live without a faithful relationship with Jesus!
We hear this statement attached with several conclusions. Life is too short to go through in uncomfortable shoes. Life is too short to waste worrying about what may never happen. Life is too short to live with regret. Even, life is too short wait on dessert. Many, many more are used, but what does it really mean?
First, it proclaims the limits of life’s duration. This implies a conclusion or an ending point. Of course, this is a scriptural principle. Hebrews 9:27 “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” The reality of life’s end should be recognized and remembered by every person. This should offer motivation to act on opportunities because no changes or growth can be achieved after that end (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
Second, it states that the time in life is minimal. Thus, the moments of that time should be seen as precious. The brevity of life suggests that it should never be treated flippantly or frivolously. James 4:13-14 “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”
Finally, it suggests that life’s time can be wasted. It can be burned up and squandered with interests or activities that have little or no merit. The scriptures tells that some words are idle (Matthew 12:31) and that even worship can be vain (Matthew 15:9). Thus, the merit of life’s activities should be given serious consideration.
All consideration being given there is a conclusion that should be drawn. Life is too short to live without a faithful relationship with Jesus!
Must Be Cursed
Neal Thurman
February 5, 2017
Sometimes things just do not work out as we intended. I feel compelled to offer an apology to the congregation for the PowerPoint malfunction during Sunday mornings lesson. I was unaware that the malfunction was being projected, and I am sorry for any distraction from worship this may have caused. This was very frustrating to me because I had given particular attention, time, and effort to the presentation. Adding to my frustration was the fact that Monday morning I tested the presentation connected to the system and it worked flawlessly.
Frustrations like this can cause a person to say things like, “These things always happen to me!” or “I must be cursed!” Exasperated, a throng of unfortunate events are quickly conjured into the mind. The desired job went to some else, maybe less qualified. The best team had its worst outing to lose the championship. The market charges upward just after stocks were cleared from a personal portfolio. Disease or injury seem to constantly impact life. (My personal tormentor) Every street light turns red when one is in a hurry or running late! Is there a curse?
First of all, I do not believe curses exist, except for perhaps that of our own bad judgement. This is not to say that misfortune does not touch anyone’s life, because obviously it does. Sometimes bad or unfortunate things happen without any misstep or wrongdoing by the one affected. These occasions do have a way of sticking out in one’s memory.
Yet, do these events accurately testify to the real life of a person? Personally, I have had a few blessing to go along with my misbehaving presentation, multiple knee injuries, flying mop-handle to the face, occasional heartache, and red-light curse. I was blessed to grow up in a home where I was loved, nurtured, and taught the way of God. I am blessed to have a wonderful wife that I do not deserve, who builds me up and keeps me properly grounded. I have been blessed to watch my healthy sons grow into righteous young men, who I am proud to have wear my name. I have been blessed to know brothers and sisters in Christ who remind me that the loving kindness that God intended for people is still shining bright in the midst of darkness. Most of all, Jesus Christ died for me, giving me absolute power over my eternal destiny! All-in-all, life is awfully good for me.
Job said, “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” (Job 2:10). Paul told of beatings, threats, and attempts to take his life in 2 Corinthians 11:24-28. Yet, this same man would write, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory..” 2 Corinthians 4:16-17.
I will not suggest that anyone’s suffering is not real or significant. Still, I will say that neither you or I is cursed, but rather we are blessed. Things may not always go the way we would choose, but victory is in the end! “...the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18). Brothers and sisters, we are a blessed people!
Frustrations like this can cause a person to say things like, “These things always happen to me!” or “I must be cursed!” Exasperated, a throng of unfortunate events are quickly conjured into the mind. The desired job went to some else, maybe less qualified. The best team had its worst outing to lose the championship. The market charges upward just after stocks were cleared from a personal portfolio. Disease or injury seem to constantly impact life. (My personal tormentor) Every street light turns red when one is in a hurry or running late! Is there a curse?
First of all, I do not believe curses exist, except for perhaps that of our own bad judgement. This is not to say that misfortune does not touch anyone’s life, because obviously it does. Sometimes bad or unfortunate things happen without any misstep or wrongdoing by the one affected. These occasions do have a way of sticking out in one’s memory.
Yet, do these events accurately testify to the real life of a person? Personally, I have had a few blessing to go along with my misbehaving presentation, multiple knee injuries, flying mop-handle to the face, occasional heartache, and red-light curse. I was blessed to grow up in a home where I was loved, nurtured, and taught the way of God. I am blessed to have a wonderful wife that I do not deserve, who builds me up and keeps me properly grounded. I have been blessed to watch my healthy sons grow into righteous young men, who I am proud to have wear my name. I have been blessed to know brothers and sisters in Christ who remind me that the loving kindness that God intended for people is still shining bright in the midst of darkness. Most of all, Jesus Christ died for me, giving me absolute power over my eternal destiny! All-in-all, life is awfully good for me.
Job said, “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” (Job 2:10). Paul told of beatings, threats, and attempts to take his life in 2 Corinthians 11:24-28. Yet, this same man would write, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory..” 2 Corinthians 4:16-17.
I will not suggest that anyone’s suffering is not real or significant. Still, I will say that neither you or I is cursed, but rather we are blessed. Things may not always go the way we would choose, but victory is in the end! “...the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18). Brothers and sisters, we are a blessed people!
A New Beginning
Neal Thurman
January 15, 2017
A number of year ago, events and circumstances left the University congregation without an eldership. Those circumstances were beyond the ability of any current member to change. The congregation and her members have been affected by this lack of scripturally appointed leadership. Some of those days were difficult and a few were chaotic. Yet, we have seen brothers and sisters rise to the call of service in these days of necessity. Those who chaired meetings, served on committees, organized events, or simply picked up the slack without the benefit of scriptural oversight are to be commended for their efforts. Furthermore, may God bless all the faithful who stood firm for the congregation when others sought greener pastures in other places. You are to be praised!
With all praise and appreciation given, let us say, “Thanks be to God!” For today we can release those uncertain days into the past. The rays of the sun on the horizon have given birth to a new day. It is time to let go of the frustrations and failures. We can be edified by the lessons we have learned in our struggles, but it is time to lead, follow, and serve today with a hope for tomorrow. Let us breath in the refreshing spirit of the new day and cleanse our hearts and minds of any heartaches, disappointments, and aggravation of days gone by. Let’s press on together!
This is not the time to relax. On the contrary, this is a time for diligent effort in abounding for the Lord. The eldership is brand new and has much to learn about leading the flock of God. Full devotion to and unwavering love for the congregation and an inexhaustible commitment to God is what is needed by the congregation, expected by God, and accepted by the elders. This is what 1 Peter 5:2-3 calls for, “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly,[ not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock…”
Additionally, the new elders are not the only ones that will have to do some learning. The membership will need to recall or re-learn what it is to have scriptural leadership. That takes effort as well. Following the elders lead may seem awkward at first, but it will be beneficial for all, (Hebrews 13:17).
As we venture into this new day, we should accept that we will still fall short from time to time. But if we stand together in unity as we press toward the upward call of God and devote ourselves wholly to His glory, God will bless us and we can be a great and glorious church!
With all praise and appreciation given, let us say, “Thanks be to God!” For today we can release those uncertain days into the past. The rays of the sun on the horizon have given birth to a new day. It is time to let go of the frustrations and failures. We can be edified by the lessons we have learned in our struggles, but it is time to lead, follow, and serve today with a hope for tomorrow. Let us breath in the refreshing spirit of the new day and cleanse our hearts and minds of any heartaches, disappointments, and aggravation of days gone by. Let’s press on together!
This is not the time to relax. On the contrary, this is a time for diligent effort in abounding for the Lord. The eldership is brand new and has much to learn about leading the flock of God. Full devotion to and unwavering love for the congregation and an inexhaustible commitment to God is what is needed by the congregation, expected by God, and accepted by the elders. This is what 1 Peter 5:2-3 calls for, “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly,[ not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock…”
Additionally, the new elders are not the only ones that will have to do some learning. The membership will need to recall or re-learn what it is to have scriptural leadership. That takes effort as well. Following the elders lead may seem awkward at first, but it will be beneficial for all, (Hebrews 13:17).
As we venture into this new day, we should accept that we will still fall short from time to time. But if we stand together in unity as we press toward the upward call of God and devote ourselves wholly to His glory, God will bless us and we can be a great and glorious church!
In The Midst of Celebration
Neal Thurman
December 4, 2016
The celebratory time of year is upon us once again. Families gather as in no other season. Shoppers rush about seeking special discounts on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Feasts of roasted meat, sumptuous dishes, and decadent desserts cover tables as set for kings. Colorful decorations adorn doorways, walls, and even street lights in our communities. Calendars are full with the schedule of festive events. It is all very exciting!
Yet, in the midst of all this celebration, some people are sad, weary, and distressed. These folks do not look at the holiday season with excitement and anticipation. For some, the gathering of family means facing heartache, emotional discomfort, and isolation. Some see brightly wrapped gifts and lavish meals as harbingers of lacking success and diminished hope for future improvement. Announcements of parties scream reminders of their loneliness. They are filled with sorrow and anguish rather than joy and exuberance.
This is not a call for Christians to fix all of these people’s problems. In fact, some of them are Christians and there are no magic words or actions that will alleviate such suffering. Still, we can make a difference. This difference starts with noticing their pain or heartache. Matthew 7:14-15 tells of Jesus restoring life to a young man that had died. This is obviously a great miracle, but its motivation is interesting. Matthew 7:12-13 reveals that the man was the only son of a widow of whom Jesus took compassion. He noticed her suffering. We cannot raise the dead, but we can notice the pain, have compassion and offer comfort to one who is pressing through the holidays without a recently departed loved one.
Secondly, we can stir up that compassion. In Matthew 9:36, Jesus had compassion on a weary crowd for they had no shepherd. We may not have all the answers and we cannot fix every problem, but when we truly care, we usually figure out something we can do.
Thirdly, take some action. Caring is good, but it is vain without action. Jesus could raise the dead, heal the sick, and feed thousands with a couple of fish; and we cannot. Yet, we are not helpless. A warm embrace and ears that listen can have great healing effects. A place at our family table may not extinguish the desire to be at another, but it can proclaim, “You are not alone in the world.” An unsolicited gift to a stranger may not relieve one’s suffering, but it just might remind him that he is worthy of being loved.
In the midst of our joyful celebration, let us be on the look out for the weary, weeping, and lonely. Let’s be Jesus’ love for them!
Yet, in the midst of all this celebration, some people are sad, weary, and distressed. These folks do not look at the holiday season with excitement and anticipation. For some, the gathering of family means facing heartache, emotional discomfort, and isolation. Some see brightly wrapped gifts and lavish meals as harbingers of lacking success and diminished hope for future improvement. Announcements of parties scream reminders of their loneliness. They are filled with sorrow and anguish rather than joy and exuberance.
This is not a call for Christians to fix all of these people’s problems. In fact, some of them are Christians and there are no magic words or actions that will alleviate such suffering. Still, we can make a difference. This difference starts with noticing their pain or heartache. Matthew 7:14-15 tells of Jesus restoring life to a young man that had died. This is obviously a great miracle, but its motivation is interesting. Matthew 7:12-13 reveals that the man was the only son of a widow of whom Jesus took compassion. He noticed her suffering. We cannot raise the dead, but we can notice the pain, have compassion and offer comfort to one who is pressing through the holidays without a recently departed loved one.
Secondly, we can stir up that compassion. In Matthew 9:36, Jesus had compassion on a weary crowd for they had no shepherd. We may not have all the answers and we cannot fix every problem, but when we truly care, we usually figure out something we can do.
Thirdly, take some action. Caring is good, but it is vain without action. Jesus could raise the dead, heal the sick, and feed thousands with a couple of fish; and we cannot. Yet, we are not helpless. A warm embrace and ears that listen can have great healing effects. A place at our family table may not extinguish the desire to be at another, but it can proclaim, “You are not alone in the world.” An unsolicited gift to a stranger may not relieve one’s suffering, but it just might remind him that he is worthy of being loved.
In the midst of our joyful celebration, let us be on the look out for the weary, weeping, and lonely. Let’s be Jesus’ love for them!
Learning From A Life Before God
Neal Thurman
November 20, 2016
The scriptural record of characters in the Bible is often confined to a specific and rather short period of their lives. These valuable stories allow us to learn of God’s ways and plans through demonstration in individual life events. Yet, we are given a broader and more conclusive view of a few characters.
One of these characters is Moses. We learn much of his life and much is to be learned from his life. The scriptures tell us of the inauspicious time of his birth that required courage and cunning on the part of his mother for Moses to even have a chance to live (Exodus 2:2-10). So, what can we learn from this man who had such a unique start to life?
Perhaps, it was ingrained in him by the protective nature of his mother, but Moses was protective of his people. It is not to suggest that his killing of the Egyptian, who had abused a Hebrew, was the proper action, but Moses saw one of his people being mistreated and took action on the Hebrew’s behalf (Exodus 2:12). Perhaps, it was that same protective nature that led Moses to stand before God and say, “Yet now, if You will forgive their sin—but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which You have written,” (Exodus 32:32). Once again, this may not have been the wisest move. Yet, which of us would not desire a protector like Moses?
Secondly, we know that Moses was a man who chose to be numbered with the children of God, (Hebrews 11:24-26). He chose God over the luxury in this life offered by wealth and power. Joshua called the children of Israel to choose for themselves whom they would serve, (Joshua 24:15). Jesus Christ warns us to count the cost of discipleship (Luke 14:26-33). Moses made the more difficult but correct choice.
Another lesson to be learned is that of the humble servant. Moses was unassuming of himself. Perhaps, his humility prompted the reluctance of leadership in Exodus 4. Regardless, the scriptures tell us that Moses was the most humble man on earth, (Numbers 12:3). Even when he was scorned by those in his family, Moses thought of others before himself. His humility aided Moses in being a faithful servant of God and a great leader of men.
So much can be learned from life of Moses, too numerous to tell, but his life also leaves us a warning. Do not loose sight of who is to serve and who is to be served. In a moment of frustration and exasperation (Number 20:10-11), Moses threw away his opportunity to lead Israel into the land, which God had promised them. If we loose our focus on the ultimate goal, we can loose our opportunity to reach the desired destination of our life’s journey. We must learn to keep God in His proper place and remember our own. Then we can truly lay claim to the title, Servants of God.
One of these characters is Moses. We learn much of his life and much is to be learned from his life. The scriptures tell us of the inauspicious time of his birth that required courage and cunning on the part of his mother for Moses to even have a chance to live (Exodus 2:2-10). So, what can we learn from this man who had such a unique start to life?
Perhaps, it was ingrained in him by the protective nature of his mother, but Moses was protective of his people. It is not to suggest that his killing of the Egyptian, who had abused a Hebrew, was the proper action, but Moses saw one of his people being mistreated and took action on the Hebrew’s behalf (Exodus 2:12). Perhaps, it was that same protective nature that led Moses to stand before God and say, “Yet now, if You will forgive their sin—but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which You have written,” (Exodus 32:32). Once again, this may not have been the wisest move. Yet, which of us would not desire a protector like Moses?
Secondly, we know that Moses was a man who chose to be numbered with the children of God, (Hebrews 11:24-26). He chose God over the luxury in this life offered by wealth and power. Joshua called the children of Israel to choose for themselves whom they would serve, (Joshua 24:15). Jesus Christ warns us to count the cost of discipleship (Luke 14:26-33). Moses made the more difficult but correct choice.
Another lesson to be learned is that of the humble servant. Moses was unassuming of himself. Perhaps, his humility prompted the reluctance of leadership in Exodus 4. Regardless, the scriptures tell us that Moses was the most humble man on earth, (Numbers 12:3). Even when he was scorned by those in his family, Moses thought of others before himself. His humility aided Moses in being a faithful servant of God and a great leader of men.
So much can be learned from life of Moses, too numerous to tell, but his life also leaves us a warning. Do not loose sight of who is to serve and who is to be served. In a moment of frustration and exasperation (Number 20:10-11), Moses threw away his opportunity to lead Israel into the land, which God had promised them. If we loose our focus on the ultimate goal, we can loose our opportunity to reach the desired destination of our life’s journey. We must learn to keep God in His proper place and remember our own. Then we can truly lay claim to the title, Servants of God.
In Whatever State I Am
Neal Thurman
November 13, 2016
What would we add to our world and the society within its boundaries? The obvious selections may be love, mercy, kindness, and compassion. Each, and all, of these is a great answer to the question. Yet, I believe that one valuable attribute falls much further down the list than it should. That attribute is contentment.
Our society and culture has become a great boiling pot of discontentment. Sadly, this societal scourge has found a welcome home in hearts of many members of Christ’s church. Just consider the oft complaints we hear in our meeting places. These range from petty moanings about the pace of a selected hymn to overwhelming exasperation with the promotion of immorality in our nation today. These complaints are often just in nature, but the problems is that we bathe, wallow, and dwell in them.
The Apostle Paul, who faced a bit of adversity in life, said: “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need” (Philippians 4:11-12).
Paul said he learned to be content and he encouraged the same in others. He wrote to Timothy, “Now godliness with contentment is great gain,” (1 Timothy 6:6).
This writing was compiled on the morning of November 8, 2016, election day. I have given much contemplation of what this day will hold for the future. Many of those thoughts are undesirable and some are actually quite troubling. These things do matter. Yet, I want to learn to be content in any state. Thus, I have exercised my privileged right to vote and I continue to exercise my greater privilege to pray. These things I do that I may live with the circumstances of the day, tomorrow. This matter is very important, but I do not intend to watch the hours of repetitive news coverage and predictions for my anxiety will not alter the outcome.
Joseph learned to be content after evil hands left him in slavery, and God blessed him. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego were all content to accept the circumstances of honoring God when they were commanded to do otherwise, and God delivered them. Paul was imprisoned, beaten, stoned, and ultimately executed for preaching Christ, and he said “I am content,” for the Righteous Judge is going to give him a crown.
May we learn to be content, come what may!
Our society and culture has become a great boiling pot of discontentment. Sadly, this societal scourge has found a welcome home in hearts of many members of Christ’s church. Just consider the oft complaints we hear in our meeting places. These range from petty moanings about the pace of a selected hymn to overwhelming exasperation with the promotion of immorality in our nation today. These complaints are often just in nature, but the problems is that we bathe, wallow, and dwell in them.
The Apostle Paul, who faced a bit of adversity in life, said: “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need” (Philippians 4:11-12).
Paul said he learned to be content and he encouraged the same in others. He wrote to Timothy, “Now godliness with contentment is great gain,” (1 Timothy 6:6).
This writing was compiled on the morning of November 8, 2016, election day. I have given much contemplation of what this day will hold for the future. Many of those thoughts are undesirable and some are actually quite troubling. These things do matter. Yet, I want to learn to be content in any state. Thus, I have exercised my privileged right to vote and I continue to exercise my greater privilege to pray. These things I do that I may live with the circumstances of the day, tomorrow. This matter is very important, but I do not intend to watch the hours of repetitive news coverage and predictions for my anxiety will not alter the outcome.
Joseph learned to be content after evil hands left him in slavery, and God blessed him. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego were all content to accept the circumstances of honoring God when they were commanded to do otherwise, and God delivered them. Paul was imprisoned, beaten, stoned, and ultimately executed for preaching Christ, and he said “I am content,” for the Righteous Judge is going to give him a crown.
May we learn to be content, come what may!
If It Felt Like a Spider Web
Neal Thurman
October 31, 2016
Entering the backdoor of the church building last week, I walked into a spider web that stretched across the full width of the entry way. I instantaneously lurched backward, thrashed my head from side-to-side, spun around, flailed my arms about spasmodically, and barked out an incomprehensible utterance. Fortunately, no one was around to view this display of manliness and control. Still, I had the feeling that something was crawling on my hair for several hours until I finally brushed the last of the arachnid silk from my hair. I was careful not to repeat the experience when entering and leaving the building for the rest of the week.
Consider how different life would be if sin felt like having a spider web drawn across the face. If sin startled and shocked our spiritual system like the web does our skin, would we not pull away and fervently seek its removal? If the residue of previous sin left an uncomfortable, creeping feeling, would we not seek to cleanse ourselves of its grasps? If sin made us do things that were embarrassing, would we not seek to avoid the contact on the next occasion? The answer to these question would seem to be obvious.
The problem is that sin does not feel like walking into a spider web. In fact, sin can often feel like a cool breeze gently kissing the skin on a hot summer day that offers pleasant relief. It can also be like a soft, warm blanket when the night is cold and the air has a stinging bite, offering a soothing comfort. It can even feel like the comforting embrace of a dear loved one that conveys a sense of security and love.
Hebrews 11:25 “choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin…” Moses chose God’s way, but not because of comfort. James 1:14 tells us, “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.” One is lured by the enticing feeling of sin. Proverbs 7:21-23 “With her enticing speech she caused him to yield, with her flattering lips she seduced him...he did not know it would cost his life.” The pleasure of sin is seducing and alluring.
Since sin does not feel like a spider web, we must condition ourselves to reject the enticement of sin. This is not the an unconscious, repulsing reaction, but rather it is a purposeful and prepared response. We can know the will of God and thus we can know what is against God’s will. We can condition ourselves to pull away from sin because of intellect and not because of a feeling.
Consider how different life would be if sin felt like having a spider web drawn across the face. If sin startled and shocked our spiritual system like the web does our skin, would we not pull away and fervently seek its removal? If the residue of previous sin left an uncomfortable, creeping feeling, would we not seek to cleanse ourselves of its grasps? If sin made us do things that were embarrassing, would we not seek to avoid the contact on the next occasion? The answer to these question would seem to be obvious.
The problem is that sin does not feel like walking into a spider web. In fact, sin can often feel like a cool breeze gently kissing the skin on a hot summer day that offers pleasant relief. It can also be like a soft, warm blanket when the night is cold and the air has a stinging bite, offering a soothing comfort. It can even feel like the comforting embrace of a dear loved one that conveys a sense of security and love.
Hebrews 11:25 “choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin…” Moses chose God’s way, but not because of comfort. James 1:14 tells us, “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.” One is lured by the enticing feeling of sin. Proverbs 7:21-23 “With her enticing speech she caused him to yield, with her flattering lips she seduced him...he did not know it would cost his life.” The pleasure of sin is seducing and alluring.
Since sin does not feel like a spider web, we must condition ourselves to reject the enticement of sin. This is not the an unconscious, repulsing reaction, but rather it is a purposeful and prepared response. We can know the will of God and thus we can know what is against God’s will. We can condition ourselves to pull away from sin because of intellect and not because of a feeling.
Bound Together in Adversity
Neal Thurman
October 24, 2016
Along my normal route for walking Snickers the dog, pine needles have covered the outer third of a street that leads down a hill. A couple of weeks ago, as Snickers took his evening constitutional, I stumbled as my foot slipped when the layers of pine straw slid across one another. I kicked a pile of the needles into the ditch and told Snickers that I would be glad when it rained and washed the pine needles down the hill and off the street.
Well, it did rain. In fact, it rained hard in the neighborhood last Friday morning. We went for a walk in the afternoon and I expected to find the street mainly clear of pine needles. That is not what I found. Rather, the needles looked as though they had been pressed and matted together. It was as if the loose-laying straw had been blended into a compressed blanket. Sliding my foot on the pavement resulted in wads of straw moving together. The rain had not washed the stiff needles away, but instead had softened them and bound them together. The adverse force of the rains cause individuals to bind to one another.
This set me to thinking about the words of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12:
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
The old preacher speaks of two facing adverse conditions and overcoming the challenge. Adversity can cause those who care for one another to be woven into a strong cord. We have a tendency to focus on self when life becomes peaceful and full of ease. But when we are challenged, we rally together, tightening the bonds of fellowship.
I do not want to advocate the seeking of adversity so that we can be bound together. Yet, I do suggest that we should not fear it either. We live in times that are not amenable to faithful Christianity and matters may worsen before they get better. Yet, let us not fear as those who have no hope. Let us not be easily kicked into the ditch as a bunch of individuals. Let us soften our hearts, draw close to one another, and be bound together by that very adversity that seeks to destroy us! Let the rains come, for we shall not yield!
Well, it did rain. In fact, it rained hard in the neighborhood last Friday morning. We went for a walk in the afternoon and I expected to find the street mainly clear of pine needles. That is not what I found. Rather, the needles looked as though they had been pressed and matted together. It was as if the loose-laying straw had been blended into a compressed blanket. Sliding my foot on the pavement resulted in wads of straw moving together. The rain had not washed the stiff needles away, but instead had softened them and bound them together. The adverse force of the rains cause individuals to bind to one another.
This set me to thinking about the words of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12:
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
The old preacher speaks of two facing adverse conditions and overcoming the challenge. Adversity can cause those who care for one another to be woven into a strong cord. We have a tendency to focus on self when life becomes peaceful and full of ease. But when we are challenged, we rally together, tightening the bonds of fellowship.
I do not want to advocate the seeking of adversity so that we can be bound together. Yet, I do suggest that we should not fear it either. We live in times that are not amenable to faithful Christianity and matters may worsen before they get better. Yet, let us not fear as those who have no hope. Let us not be easily kicked into the ditch as a bunch of individuals. Let us soften our hearts, draw close to one another, and be bound together by that very adversity that seeks to destroy us! Let the rains come, for we shall not yield!
Many Are Listening
Neal Thurman
October 17, 2016
James 1:19 “My beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak…”
Many reasons exist for the Christian to be careful with what he says and how he says it. The Apostle Paul admonishes Christians in Colossians 4:6 to season their speech that it may impart grace to hearers. Paul is calling for Christians to use words that heal rather than wound, enlighten rather than demean, edify rather than destroy. The admonition also encourages the use of words that will be received. Remember, “a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).
Another powerful reason for being careful with our words is the fact that we are a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden, (Matthew 5:14). The children of God are seen and they are heard. The disciples of Jesus Christ are noticed in the world. Thus, whatever words we speak are taken in by many listening ears. Many of those ears are worn by folks whose only exposure to Jesus Christ, the truth of His word, and His loving kindness are the Christians whom they contact in their daily lives. Other listeners possess a desire to do harm to the church that Jesus built and established on His own sacrifice and purchased with His own blood. These anxiously await the opportunity to degrade the righteous image and diminish the spiritual influence of Christ’s church. These are not interesting in obeying or serving Christ, but rather are driven to destroy His work. Wicked actions seen or venomous words heard from those professing faith in Christ Jesus often provide the fuel for their weaponry.
So, brothers and sisters, let us recognize that many are listening to our words, some for learning and some for opportunity. The onus is on the righteous to use words properly. It may not be fair, but it is reality. So, when we are angry, upset, or hurt, let us be slow to speak and find soft answers that turn away wrath (Proverbs 15:1). When we are impassioned, let us chose graceful words that carry the intensity of our hearts without bashing the continence of others (Ephesians 4:29). When a brother needs correction, let us be swift to listen and diligent to contemplate the expedient time, setting, and manner of which he should be approached as to extend gentleness rather that condescension (Galatians 6:1). When we are wounded by the words of others, let us not respond in kind but with words of kindness (Romans 12:17). Let us remember with all diligence, someone is always listening to words we speak, whether good, bad, or idle.
Many reasons exist for the Christian to be careful with what he says and how he says it. The Apostle Paul admonishes Christians in Colossians 4:6 to season their speech that it may impart grace to hearers. Paul is calling for Christians to use words that heal rather than wound, enlighten rather than demean, edify rather than destroy. The admonition also encourages the use of words that will be received. Remember, “a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).
Another powerful reason for being careful with our words is the fact that we are a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden, (Matthew 5:14). The children of God are seen and they are heard. The disciples of Jesus Christ are noticed in the world. Thus, whatever words we speak are taken in by many listening ears. Many of those ears are worn by folks whose only exposure to Jesus Christ, the truth of His word, and His loving kindness are the Christians whom they contact in their daily lives. Other listeners possess a desire to do harm to the church that Jesus built and established on His own sacrifice and purchased with His own blood. These anxiously await the opportunity to degrade the righteous image and diminish the spiritual influence of Christ’s church. These are not interesting in obeying or serving Christ, but rather are driven to destroy His work. Wicked actions seen or venomous words heard from those professing faith in Christ Jesus often provide the fuel for their weaponry.
So, brothers and sisters, let us recognize that many are listening to our words, some for learning and some for opportunity. The onus is on the righteous to use words properly. It may not be fair, but it is reality. So, when we are angry, upset, or hurt, let us be slow to speak and find soft answers that turn away wrath (Proverbs 15:1). When we are impassioned, let us chose graceful words that carry the intensity of our hearts without bashing the continence of others (Ephesians 4:29). When a brother needs correction, let us be swift to listen and diligent to contemplate the expedient time, setting, and manner of which he should be approached as to extend gentleness rather that condescension (Galatians 6:1). When we are wounded by the words of others, let us not respond in kind but with words of kindness (Romans 12:17). Let us remember with all diligence, someone is always listening to words we speak, whether good, bad, or idle.
But, What If...?
Neal Thurman
September 25,2016
John 16:13 “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.”
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Peter 1:3 “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,”
2 Peter 1:20-21 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
Consider what these verses hold in common. These texts, and others, proclaim that God has a way. There is one God and He is the authority of life and godliness. Jesus says that even the Spirit of truth is subject to the will and authority of the Father. The One God has provided one way for man to be reconciled and be pleasing before God. The scriptures are actually quite plain about this teaching. If a man follows and obeys the word of God, he will be saved and will wear a crown of life. This plan works every time.
Problems arise when man decides to put his own hand to the wheel. Mankind has a bad habit of running God’s plain instructions through the filter of their own minds. Too often, when God’s word is read or proclaimed, man replies, “But, what if…?”. The “What if’s” are not about a lack of understanding, but rather a lack of obedience. Man often thinks, “The Word says (this or that), but what if (this or that) is not easy to do?” or “God said He wanted us to do it one way, but what if we did it just a little different? Everybody likes it better this way.”
Brethren, many folks are sadly going to “What if” themselves right into the lake that burns with fire and brimstone. These folks are not vile people, but they fail to be obedient to the Word of God. God’s word is not always easy to keep, but the reward is worth it (Romans 8:18). Let us, as children of God, submit to His divine authority and humbly obey His word, and spend eternity in heaven.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Peter 1:3 “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,”
2 Peter 1:20-21 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
Consider what these verses hold in common. These texts, and others, proclaim that God has a way. There is one God and He is the authority of life and godliness. Jesus says that even the Spirit of truth is subject to the will and authority of the Father. The One God has provided one way for man to be reconciled and be pleasing before God. The scriptures are actually quite plain about this teaching. If a man follows and obeys the word of God, he will be saved and will wear a crown of life. This plan works every time.
Problems arise when man decides to put his own hand to the wheel. Mankind has a bad habit of running God’s plain instructions through the filter of their own minds. Too often, when God’s word is read or proclaimed, man replies, “But, what if…?”. The “What if’s” are not about a lack of understanding, but rather a lack of obedience. Man often thinks, “The Word says (this or that), but what if (this or that) is not easy to do?” or “God said He wanted us to do it one way, but what if we did it just a little different? Everybody likes it better this way.”
Brethren, many folks are sadly going to “What if” themselves right into the lake that burns with fire and brimstone. These folks are not vile people, but they fail to be obedient to the Word of God. God’s word is not always easy to keep, but the reward is worth it (Romans 8:18). Let us, as children of God, submit to His divine authority and humbly obey His word, and spend eternity in heaven.
No Easy Way Out
Neal Thurman
September 18, 2016
Within our society, folks are seeking those things that are comfortable and convenient. We developed prepackaged meals that require no preparation and only a few minutes in a microwave to be ready to eat. We have developed computer devices that can convert our spoken words into textual representation. And folks are working feverously to develop self-driving cars. These things are often good, if not abused, but perhaps they perpetuate the idea that life should be easy. Truthful reality tells us that life is not easy. Some will agree, believing that life has never been as hard as it is today. Yet, truth be known, life has never been easy. This is certainly true when one seeks to live a righteous or godly life. In fact, the Bible warns of suffering that awaits the godly. Living righteously in this perverse world is seldom easy.
This is not a new idea. Genesis 6:5 tells of an environment where man was wicked and “every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” In the midst of all that vile wickedness, “Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord,” (Genesis 6:8). Shall we assume that Noah’s life was easy? I think not. Surrounded by servants of Satan, Noah lived and worked obediently before God. He likely was not the most popular man in town. Yet, he did “according to all that God commanded him. So, he did,” (Genesis 6:22).
Moses fled from Egypt after he had killed an Egyptian. He escaped and found a wife and a new family. God told Moses to go back to Egypt and deliver His people from the hand of Pharaoh. Exodus 3:11 lets us know that Moses did not want to go. Yet, on God’s command, Moses went to Pharaoh and with the might of God, delivered Israel. His task was by no means easy.
Jesus “came into the world to save sinners,” (1 Timothy 1:15). This required death on a cross and separation from the Father. Jesus prayed three times, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:36). Doing the will of the Father was not easy for the Son.
Sometimes keeping the will of God is difficult. Sometimes obedience to God requires sacrifice for the greater good or righteousness sake. Children of God should recognize and teach that at times, that which God requires one to add to life and that which God commands one abstain are often hard. Yet, we were not promised a life of ease, but a precious reward for a life lived well.
This is not a new idea. Genesis 6:5 tells of an environment where man was wicked and “every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” In the midst of all that vile wickedness, “Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord,” (Genesis 6:8). Shall we assume that Noah’s life was easy? I think not. Surrounded by servants of Satan, Noah lived and worked obediently before God. He likely was not the most popular man in town. Yet, he did “according to all that God commanded him. So, he did,” (Genesis 6:22).
Moses fled from Egypt after he had killed an Egyptian. He escaped and found a wife and a new family. God told Moses to go back to Egypt and deliver His people from the hand of Pharaoh. Exodus 3:11 lets us know that Moses did not want to go. Yet, on God’s command, Moses went to Pharaoh and with the might of God, delivered Israel. His task was by no means easy.
Jesus “came into the world to save sinners,” (1 Timothy 1:15). This required death on a cross and separation from the Father. Jesus prayed three times, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:36). Doing the will of the Father was not easy for the Son.
Sometimes keeping the will of God is difficult. Sometimes obedience to God requires sacrifice for the greater good or righteousness sake. Children of God should recognize and teach that at times, that which God requires one to add to life and that which God commands one abstain are often hard. Yet, we were not promised a life of ease, but a precious reward for a life lived well.
Not So Golden Silence
Neal Thurman
August 28, 2016
I wonder if every parent has had that time when all they wished for was a little bit of peace and quite, a moment of precious silence to free the mind of external interference. Perhaps, this seemed impossible at the time. Loud noises came from laughter and crying alike. The crack of plastic lightsabers testified that Obi-Wan Kenobi had caught up with Count Duku. The pounding of the floor suggested Batman was in pursuit of a fleeing villain and a fight for capture would soon ensue. The whine of unearthly propulsion systems and the quaking of explosions emanated from the video game console as a parental voice rose in the distance demanding a reduction in volume. There was tapping on cans and drumming on tables. The piercing sound of whistling and the startling jolt of weird noises often permeated the environment. The golden orb of silence was in short supply.
Monday evening, I walked into our home and sat down in the den as I have done a thousand times. Yet, this day was different. No voices floated down the hall. No music rang from thumping speakers. No whistling pierced the air. No one laughed and no one cried. All around was silent, but it was not so golden.
I was reminded of the words of Ecclesiastes 12:1 “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, “I have no pleasure in them.”
Brethren, we need to learn to appreciate the life we have today. Too often, we lament over not being old enough to be allowed or too old to follow through. We waste energy yearning to be somewhere else at some other time. All the while missing the precious nature of the moment we have.
If you are young, relish these days for they are few and fleeting. I realize there are things you want to do, but the reality of being a grown up is seldom what we dreamed of as children. If you are a parent with children at home, cherish every moment possible. We all need to make a living, but no amount of wealth will ever replace the treasure in your home. If the kids have left a void of silence in your home, appreciate the opportunity to see them take flight into the skies of life and encourage them to soar as on eagles wings. If you have grown older, rejoice that the Lord has blessed you with many days and you have lived to see the birth another generation that will follow.
Perhaps, we all have a favorite time in life, when all seemed right in the world. Yet, the best day is really today because it is the day we have. Yesterday has been filed into memory and tomorrow is but a dream. Today, we can laugh or cry, we can heal and build, we can sing and we can pray, we can edify and love. We can actively do all these things only today!
Monday evening, I walked into our home and sat down in the den as I have done a thousand times. Yet, this day was different. No voices floated down the hall. No music rang from thumping speakers. No whistling pierced the air. No one laughed and no one cried. All around was silent, but it was not so golden.
I was reminded of the words of Ecclesiastes 12:1 “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, “I have no pleasure in them.”
Brethren, we need to learn to appreciate the life we have today. Too often, we lament over not being old enough to be allowed or too old to follow through. We waste energy yearning to be somewhere else at some other time. All the while missing the precious nature of the moment we have.
If you are young, relish these days for they are few and fleeting. I realize there are things you want to do, but the reality of being a grown up is seldom what we dreamed of as children. If you are a parent with children at home, cherish every moment possible. We all need to make a living, but no amount of wealth will ever replace the treasure in your home. If the kids have left a void of silence in your home, appreciate the opportunity to see them take flight into the skies of life and encourage them to soar as on eagles wings. If you have grown older, rejoice that the Lord has blessed you with many days and you have lived to see the birth another generation that will follow.
Perhaps, we all have a favorite time in life, when all seemed right in the world. Yet, the best day is really today because it is the day we have. Yesterday has been filed into memory and tomorrow is but a dream. Today, we can laugh or cry, we can heal and build, we can sing and we can pray, we can edify and love. We can actively do all these things only today!
Do You Have Time For The Lord?
Neal Thurman
August 21, 2016
We live in a fast-paced society that seems to be trying to squeeze just a few more seconds out of each minute. We are busy and feel hurried. How many times do we find ourselves saying, “I just don’t have time.” “I don’t have time for family fellowship. I don’t have time to go by the hospital to visit anyone. I don’t have time to give to study the Bible. I don’t have time to spend another hour in worship.” We are sure that these statements are true and unyielding.
And someone has whispered in our ears, “It’s okay. God understands that you are busy. Don’t worry about it. You’ll have time to do all those things later.” Of course, the whisperer is the same one who convinced Eve that God was not being truthful about the tree of knowledge because He did not want her to be like God, (Genesis 3). The whisperer gains great influence when he persuades us that time is too short to do all the things that God has commanded and desires.
We all have the same amount of time. It is in the allocation where folks differ. Part of the difference is one’s desire for time. Felix had a desire for a convenient time (Acts 24:25), a time when everything is easy and requires very little of self. In 1 Samuel 13, King Saul thought time was running out, so he offered a burnt offering that he was not authorized to offer. He was told by Samuel that he had acted “foolishly.” The children of Israel decided that Moses had taken too much time on Mount Sinai (Exodus 32), so they prompted Aaron to make them a god to go before them. God was not pleased with any of these people.
I realize that many of us are genuinely busy, but sometimes its that old whispering serpent who tells us we have no time to spare. He knows when the walls of limited time begin to press in from every side, we become vulnerable to his suggestions. He willing uses such against us.
Beloved, if we are too busy to share a bit of love with our families, we need to look at cutting back a bit on something less important. Most importantly, if we are too busy to worship and serve God, we need to do a complete analysis of our time allocation and make hearty changes to the plan. Is it not sobering to think, if we do not have time for the Lord, He will not have time for us? Secure the time needed, whatever the cost, to be a faithful servant of the Lord!
And someone has whispered in our ears, “It’s okay. God understands that you are busy. Don’t worry about it. You’ll have time to do all those things later.” Of course, the whisperer is the same one who convinced Eve that God was not being truthful about the tree of knowledge because He did not want her to be like God, (Genesis 3). The whisperer gains great influence when he persuades us that time is too short to do all the things that God has commanded and desires.
We all have the same amount of time. It is in the allocation where folks differ. Part of the difference is one’s desire for time. Felix had a desire for a convenient time (Acts 24:25), a time when everything is easy and requires very little of self. In 1 Samuel 13, King Saul thought time was running out, so he offered a burnt offering that he was not authorized to offer. He was told by Samuel that he had acted “foolishly.” The children of Israel decided that Moses had taken too much time on Mount Sinai (Exodus 32), so they prompted Aaron to make them a god to go before them. God was not pleased with any of these people.
I realize that many of us are genuinely busy, but sometimes its that old whispering serpent who tells us we have no time to spare. He knows when the walls of limited time begin to press in from every side, we become vulnerable to his suggestions. He willing uses such against us.
Beloved, if we are too busy to share a bit of love with our families, we need to look at cutting back a bit on something less important. Most importantly, if we are too busy to worship and serve God, we need to do a complete analysis of our time allocation and make hearty changes to the plan. Is it not sobering to think, if we do not have time for the Lord, He will not have time for us? Secure the time needed, whatever the cost, to be a faithful servant of the Lord!
Common Sense in Admonition
Neal Thurman
August 14, 2016
Romans 15;14 Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.
Human beings are unique from all other creatures of God’s creation. One of the characteristics that exemplifies this uniqueness is man’s ability to reason, contemplate, and reach a conclusion. Animals have learned behaviors that respond to various stimuli, but humans have the ability to reject the influence of stimuli and choose a course beyond a conditioned response. Thus, we can use the sense God gain us to choose the best course of action in most, even difficult, situations.
Paul told the Roman Christians that he had confidence in their ability to admonish one another. Admonition is an important part of growth. Even the best and brightest among us need a bit of correction from time to time. Yet, this importance should not diminish, in fact it enhances, the need for careful consideration and cautious execution.
The righteous and faithful need to ask a few questions before proceeding with an admonition or other corrective action. For instance: “What is the purpose of the admonition?” Every admonition should have a distinct purpose and a reason for action. This purpose should go well beyond, “I don’t like...” Not only should the admonition have a godly purpose, but the admonisher should have a godly purpose, also.
“Is the problem scriptural or of personal behavior?” Direct scriptural problems leave very little room for strategic solutions. Matters of personal evaluation allow more latitude in dealing with a situation.
“Am I the right person to address this situation?” This is by no means a suggestion to take the “Not-My-Problem” approach. Yet, could just anyone have confronted Peter as Paul did (Galatians 2:11ff)? Probably not. We should recognize that sometimes the messenger matter. I should have the common sense to realize that there are people who will reject correction simply because I gave it to them. It may not be right, but it is reality.
“When, where, and how should the admonition be given?” Many well-intentioned corrections have been summarily rejected because of a poor choice of time, setting, and manner. Very few people respond positively to ambush tactics, and no one likes being embarrassed. Be careful and think before you speak!
We should not be consumed with a fear of failure that causes us to do and say nothing. Yet, when admonition is needed, we should strive to exercise the common sense that God gave us to help, edify, and correct those we love.
Human beings are unique from all other creatures of God’s creation. One of the characteristics that exemplifies this uniqueness is man’s ability to reason, contemplate, and reach a conclusion. Animals have learned behaviors that respond to various stimuli, but humans have the ability to reject the influence of stimuli and choose a course beyond a conditioned response. Thus, we can use the sense God gain us to choose the best course of action in most, even difficult, situations.
Paul told the Roman Christians that he had confidence in their ability to admonish one another. Admonition is an important part of growth. Even the best and brightest among us need a bit of correction from time to time. Yet, this importance should not diminish, in fact it enhances, the need for careful consideration and cautious execution.
The righteous and faithful need to ask a few questions before proceeding with an admonition or other corrective action. For instance: “What is the purpose of the admonition?” Every admonition should have a distinct purpose and a reason for action. This purpose should go well beyond, “I don’t like...” Not only should the admonition have a godly purpose, but the admonisher should have a godly purpose, also.
“Is the problem scriptural or of personal behavior?” Direct scriptural problems leave very little room for strategic solutions. Matters of personal evaluation allow more latitude in dealing with a situation.
“Am I the right person to address this situation?” This is by no means a suggestion to take the “Not-My-Problem” approach. Yet, could just anyone have confronted Peter as Paul did (Galatians 2:11ff)? Probably not. We should recognize that sometimes the messenger matter. I should have the common sense to realize that there are people who will reject correction simply because I gave it to them. It may not be right, but it is reality.
“When, where, and how should the admonition be given?” Many well-intentioned corrections have been summarily rejected because of a poor choice of time, setting, and manner. Very few people respond positively to ambush tactics, and no one likes being embarrassed. Be careful and think before you speak!
We should not be consumed with a fear of failure that causes us to do and say nothing. Yet, when admonition is needed, we should strive to exercise the common sense that God gave us to help, edify, and correct those we love.
Weeping Father
Neal Thurman
August 7, 2016
Last Sunday evening, we spoke of David’s sorrow including 2 Samuel 18:33 “Then the king was deeply moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept. And as he went, he said thus: “O my son Absalom—my son, my son Absalom—if only I had died in your place! O Absalom my son, my son!”
Why did David mourn with such anguish over Absalom? In his life, Absalom had caused much grief. He murdered his brother Amnon (2 Samuel 13:29), he conspired to seized the throne of David, (2 Samuel 15), he sought to shame David further by lying with the king’s concubines (2 Samuel 16:22), and he sought to kill David (2 Samuel 17). Yet, David bitterly mourned the death of this man who had caused so much turmoil. Why?
Absalom was David’s son. Though the son had perpetrated much wickedness, the father still loved the son and was grieved by his death. David did not call the evil good, but he still cared for the one who committed the evil.
How much greater must the sorrow of the perfect Father be for the loss of those He loves. God makes no mistakes and is guilty of no sense of neglect or failure, but still those who could be His sons die in their sins. God has given man a part of Himself, but even the first of His creation were given to lust (Genesis 3:6). God provided a law so His people could know the way of righteousness and that which pleased Him. Far too often the people did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 17:6). God sent light into the world by way of His Son, but men chose the darkness, “because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). His Son was sacrificed for sins of man, but many would not be persuaded to follow Him (Acts 26:28).
God has given man chance after chance to be obedient, and time after time most have chosen to do evil. Bent on their own destruction, the majority reject God and die in sin. And God mourns their loss. ‘As I live,’ says the Lord God, ‘I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways! For why should you die, O house of Israel?’ (Ezekiel 33:11).
David mourned for Absalom because he loved him as a son. God loves us when we are disobedient and do not follow His way. God loves us when we are vile and immoral. He even loves us when we defy Him. When we die in this state, our God mourns (Matthew 23:37-39).
Yet, neither God’s love for the wicked nor His sorrow for their loss will change the truth of His word nor their condition. Dying in sin is to be lost, eternally. This loss not the desire of the Father (2 Peter 3:9), but it is truth. May we never cause the Father to mourn our loss!
Why did David mourn with such anguish over Absalom? In his life, Absalom had caused much grief. He murdered his brother Amnon (2 Samuel 13:29), he conspired to seized the throne of David, (2 Samuel 15), he sought to shame David further by lying with the king’s concubines (2 Samuel 16:22), and he sought to kill David (2 Samuel 17). Yet, David bitterly mourned the death of this man who had caused so much turmoil. Why?
Absalom was David’s son. Though the son had perpetrated much wickedness, the father still loved the son and was grieved by his death. David did not call the evil good, but he still cared for the one who committed the evil.
How much greater must the sorrow of the perfect Father be for the loss of those He loves. God makes no mistakes and is guilty of no sense of neglect or failure, but still those who could be His sons die in their sins. God has given man a part of Himself, but even the first of His creation were given to lust (Genesis 3:6). God provided a law so His people could know the way of righteousness and that which pleased Him. Far too often the people did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 17:6). God sent light into the world by way of His Son, but men chose the darkness, “because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). His Son was sacrificed for sins of man, but many would not be persuaded to follow Him (Acts 26:28).
God has given man chance after chance to be obedient, and time after time most have chosen to do evil. Bent on their own destruction, the majority reject God and die in sin. And God mourns their loss. ‘As I live,’ says the Lord God, ‘I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways! For why should you die, O house of Israel?’ (Ezekiel 33:11).
David mourned for Absalom because he loved him as a son. God loves us when we are disobedient and do not follow His way. God loves us when we are vile and immoral. He even loves us when we defy Him. When we die in this state, our God mourns (Matthew 23:37-39).
Yet, neither God’s love for the wicked nor His sorrow for their loss will change the truth of His word nor their condition. Dying in sin is to be lost, eternally. This loss not the desire of the Father (2 Peter 3:9), but it is truth. May we never cause the Father to mourn our loss!
Oh The Drama
Neal A. Thurman
June 5,2016
I was recently reminded of a conversation I had a number of years ago with one of the men at camp. He related his experience of driving a van full of girls from Shreveport to Pettijohn Springs. Most of the girls were between the ages of 12 and 14.
I asked about his trip and he replied, "Oh the drama! When we left, they all loved each other, but by the time we stopped for lunch battle lines were drawn and everyone was mad. We got back on the van and the love-fest was back in swing. We stopped for gas and hatred loomed heavily. Now we're here and they love each other again. I'm tired!"
We often joke about the emotional roller coaster of teen-age girls, but I am not sure that the adult world is much more stable. We live in times of heightened sensitivity. It is not difficult to find a current event that relates that someone has taken offense to something in society or the actions of a person or group. Obviously, some things are clearly offensive, but it seems like many in our culture are wondering about seeking an offense. Everyone else is training to never do or say anything that could be construed as offensive. Before we know it, dog owners will need sensitivity training about their dogs stressing the neighbor’s cats, which the cat owners find offensive.
Unfortunately, the Lord's church is not immune from sensitivity syndrome. We are offended if someone tells our kids to quit running through the building. We are offended when members fail to take notice of our attendance, but we are offended if they notice and mention our lack of attendance. We are offended when someone ignores our constructive criticism, and we are offended when someone offers it. This has created an environment where most everyone tiptoes around on eggshells hoping only to not offend. This then leaves all corrective or admonishing efforts to a few daring souls, who may be ill equipped to do the job.
Matthew 13:57 tells us that the people of Nazareth were offended by Jesus. The Pharisees were offended when Jesus said the words from a man's mouth defile him,
Matthew 15:1 1-12. Paul asked the Galatians, "Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?" Galatians 4:16.
Perhaps, we should toughen up just a bit. It is true that each of us should be mindful of our words and our intentions, knowing that we can wound with our words. Yet, the answer is not for everyone to say or do nothing corrective. Sometimes helpful, needed, and loving words hurt. Let us not be offended by these words. Let's pull the plug of the drama and realize a little admonition is good for the soul.
I asked about his trip and he replied, "Oh the drama! When we left, they all loved each other, but by the time we stopped for lunch battle lines were drawn and everyone was mad. We got back on the van and the love-fest was back in swing. We stopped for gas and hatred loomed heavily. Now we're here and they love each other again. I'm tired!"
We often joke about the emotional roller coaster of teen-age girls, but I am not sure that the adult world is much more stable. We live in times of heightened sensitivity. It is not difficult to find a current event that relates that someone has taken offense to something in society or the actions of a person or group. Obviously, some things are clearly offensive, but it seems like many in our culture are wondering about seeking an offense. Everyone else is training to never do or say anything that could be construed as offensive. Before we know it, dog owners will need sensitivity training about their dogs stressing the neighbor’s cats, which the cat owners find offensive.
Unfortunately, the Lord's church is not immune from sensitivity syndrome. We are offended if someone tells our kids to quit running through the building. We are offended when members fail to take notice of our attendance, but we are offended if they notice and mention our lack of attendance. We are offended when someone ignores our constructive criticism, and we are offended when someone offers it. This has created an environment where most everyone tiptoes around on eggshells hoping only to not offend. This then leaves all corrective or admonishing efforts to a few daring souls, who may be ill equipped to do the job.
Matthew 13:57 tells us that the people of Nazareth were offended by Jesus. The Pharisees were offended when Jesus said the words from a man's mouth defile him,
Matthew 15:1 1-12. Paul asked the Galatians, "Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?" Galatians 4:16.
Perhaps, we should toughen up just a bit. It is true that each of us should be mindful of our words and our intentions, knowing that we can wound with our words. Yet, the answer is not for everyone to say or do nothing corrective. Sometimes helpful, needed, and loving words hurt. Let us not be offended by these words. Let's pull the plug of the drama and realize a little admonition is good for the soul.
Tighten the Lug Nuts?
Neal A. Thurman
October 6, 2013
One day last week, while driving toward Troup, I noticed, as two vehicles approached in the opposite lane, that the second vehicle suddenly swerved to the right, bounced over a driveway, swerved back onto the shoulder, before plowing into the ditch. The excitement seized my attention as I wondered what the driver could possibly be thinking to do such a thing. My understanding was quickly clarified when the first vehicle passed by closely followed by the front left wheel of the wrecked SUV. The wheel continued to roll for another two hundred yards or so.
I stopped to check for possible injuries, but the driver proclaimed everyone to be fine. He then began to draw colorfully worded conclusions regarding his own personal stupidity, and I did not dispute his deductions. So, I went on my way.
Driving away, I pondered the fact that this accident did not just happen in that moment. No suspension piece was still attached to the wheel. The wheel simply came off of its lug bolts. So, when did the wreck start happening? Were the lug nuts not properly tightened? Was the vehicle operating without the prescribed number of lug nuts? Was one or more of the lug bolts already broken? I do not know, but all of these things would be avoided by proper preparatory action. The driver's self-deprecation would suggest that he recognized this to be the case.
Life altering acts of wickedness are often similar in nature. Able's un-timely death did not start with a murderous brother luring him into a field of death. It started with a sacrifice offered in disobedience (Genesis 4:3-8). The murder of Uriah did not begin with a charge toward the enemy on a contested battlefield. It started on the rooftop of an unsettled king with longing, lustful eyes, (2 Samuel 1 1:2-22). The betrayal of the Son of the living God did not begin with a kiss in the garden. It began with the greed that resided in the heart of a thief, (John 12:6).
The same is true for us. If we will do the preparatory work to correct disobedience, lust, and greed, maybe we will never have to deal with murder and betrayal. If we tighten the lug nuts, we will not lose a wheel while speeding down life's road!
I stopped to check for possible injuries, but the driver proclaimed everyone to be fine. He then began to draw colorfully worded conclusions regarding his own personal stupidity, and I did not dispute his deductions. So, I went on my way.
Driving away, I pondered the fact that this accident did not just happen in that moment. No suspension piece was still attached to the wheel. The wheel simply came off of its lug bolts. So, when did the wreck start happening? Were the lug nuts not properly tightened? Was the vehicle operating without the prescribed number of lug nuts? Was one or more of the lug bolts already broken? I do not know, but all of these things would be avoided by proper preparatory action. The driver's self-deprecation would suggest that he recognized this to be the case.
Life altering acts of wickedness are often similar in nature. Able's un-timely death did not start with a murderous brother luring him into a field of death. It started with a sacrifice offered in disobedience (Genesis 4:3-8). The murder of Uriah did not begin with a charge toward the enemy on a contested battlefield. It started on the rooftop of an unsettled king with longing, lustful eyes, (2 Samuel 1 1:2-22). The betrayal of the Son of the living God did not begin with a kiss in the garden. It began with the greed that resided in the heart of a thief, (John 12:6).
The same is true for us. If we will do the preparatory work to correct disobedience, lust, and greed, maybe we will never have to deal with murder and betrayal. If we tighten the lug nuts, we will not lose a wheel while speeding down life's road!
Place and Time for a Purpose
Neal A. Thurman
July 31, 2013
Do you ever wonder why you are where you are at this time? Is it just happen stance or coincidence? Or is there a higher purpose for presence in this place and time? I do not know the answer to these questions. I do believe that God the Father intends for us to utilize opportunities we are afforded by our location and time.
The purpose of some biblical characters are easily determined. Noah was directly instructed by God to build an ark for the saving of his household (Genesis 6). Abraham was called by God to go to a land of promise where he would become the father of a nation (Genesis 12). Moses was called to deliver Israel from bondage in Egypt (Exodus 3). The Holy Spirit sent Philip to the eunuch for the purpose of teaching him of Jesus (Acts 8). Saul of Tarsus (Paul) was called to be an apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9). Of course, Jesus was sent to earth to be the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of man.
The placement and purpose for others is not as clear. Did God place Joseph in Egypt to save the house of Israel (Genesis 37) or did Joseph's faithfulness allow for him to become the hand of God? Did God send David to the armies of Israel as Goliath defied Saul and his army (l Samuel 17) or did the courage and faith of David allow him to use the might of God? Regardless of whether God acted directly to bring a person to a place and time or used them being there, each one's purpose was to serve God.
Consider what Mordecai said to Esther, "Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father 's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther 4:13-14. Mordecai called for Esther to utilize the opportunity offered to her by place, position, and time.
The call is no different for you and I. Whether God sent us here at this time or is willing to use us where we are, we are called to serve God's will when and where we are. Esther took this motivation and saved her people from a terrible assault. What might you and I do if we utilize God power in such a time as this?
The purpose of some biblical characters are easily determined. Noah was directly instructed by God to build an ark for the saving of his household (Genesis 6). Abraham was called by God to go to a land of promise where he would become the father of a nation (Genesis 12). Moses was called to deliver Israel from bondage in Egypt (Exodus 3). The Holy Spirit sent Philip to the eunuch for the purpose of teaching him of Jesus (Acts 8). Saul of Tarsus (Paul) was called to be an apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9). Of course, Jesus was sent to earth to be the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of man.
The placement and purpose for others is not as clear. Did God place Joseph in Egypt to save the house of Israel (Genesis 37) or did Joseph's faithfulness allow for him to become the hand of God? Did God send David to the armies of Israel as Goliath defied Saul and his army (l Samuel 17) or did the courage and faith of David allow him to use the might of God? Regardless of whether God acted directly to bring a person to a place and time or used them being there, each one's purpose was to serve God.
Consider what Mordecai said to Esther, "Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father 's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther 4:13-14. Mordecai called for Esther to utilize the opportunity offered to her by place, position, and time.
The call is no different for you and I. Whether God sent us here at this time or is willing to use us where we are, we are called to serve God's will when and where we are. Esther took this motivation and saved her people from a terrible assault. What might you and I do if we utilize God power in such a time as this?