I guess it was at least 3 years ago that I decided the most foolish thing I could do was to argue with anyone about any issue on Facebook. Maybe I decided that because I am not one who likes controversy. Maybe it was because I noticed that the angrier those who opposed me got with me, the angrier I got with them. The result, every time, was that I did not change my opponents view, nor did they change my view. I decided that just as I had the right to my opinions, those who disagreed with me had the right to their opinions.
Let’s face it, our country is in a mess of gigantic proportions! Anyone who knows anything knew what kind of mess we were in before the latest school shooting. We knew it before the tragic killing in Virginia that precipitated the protesting concerning the display of Confederate statues. We knew it before the protest by football players against law enforcement officials, and before any of the other controversies which viciously divides the aisle in our nation's capital. The problem is not statues, it is not flags or anthems, nor is it assault rifles. The problem is not even the few mental cases that have carried out those horrible mass shootings.
The problem lies with our so called leaders who are controlled by their selfish agendas, by their hatred and anger, their arrogance, and their unwillingness to work in a civil manner with the opposition. The problem is the media that slants the news so that their political and social views are promoted. The problem is with the fake news sites which post those sensational, outrageous editions of the news so as to upset, frighten, and anger those who believe everything and anything they read. The problem is with the thousands, perhaps millions of people on social media sites who have nothing better to do with their time than argue with others about their political party, about their religion, about the latest controversy, or about whatever their soapbox view happens to be. The problem is that people are greedy and too self absorbed to care about the needs or feelings of others. The problem, and I’m sure there are many more, basically is that people had rather be right, than to be a legitimate, positive part of the solution.
I am saddened by what has happened to our nation and our world. America is in a mess of gigantic proportions. What is written and shared on social media, on Facebook, is not going to solve our problems. I wonder how many billions of hours have been wasted on Facebook by all the good intentioned people around the world? God has numbered our days, and actually our minutes. I must ask Him to forgive me for the precious moments I’ve wasted. Those who are followers of Christ can and should be a positive voice in the world and encourage others to do the same. We have two other choices. We can do nothing, or we can attack in anger disregarding our Lord’s command to love our enemies. What we do and how we do it is up to us. What will our choice be?
Tuesday, February 27, 2018
Blessed With Much Wealth
Wealth is measured in various ways: Money, land, and possessions, or influence, education, and power, or wisdom, talent, and skill. Wealth is something that belongs to us, and something we cherish. We fight to keep our wealth, and if we lose it we mourn. Everyone has wealth. The greatest wealth any of us have is something that we can give away, yet never run out of. In fact, the more of it that we give away, the more we have. Friendship! Friends are a God given source of our greatest wealth.
We have many types of friends. There are old friends. We’ve known them all of our lives. We have work friends, church friends, recreational friends, and friends we seldom see, yet, they are such good friends when we do see them we carry on as though we’ve never been apart. There are friends that we don’t even like all that much. We have fair weather friends, maybe some friends whom we don’t speak to anymore. Of course there are those friends who have hurt us, and friends we have hurt. Some friends stand beside us no matter what disagreements we’ve had. What about those friends who have come along at exactly the right time to help us. Those we’ve never seen before and will never see again? Perhaps those “angels unaware friends”.
There are new friends, young friends, friends of friends, and friends for a season. On and on through life’s cycle we make friends, people with whom we share the joys, the celebrations, the heartaches, anxieties and fears, times of waiting, and periods of sorrow. And we have friends who we will never see again, at least in this world. For them we mourn. We are indeed people of great wealth if we have friends. Friends, gifts from God, who make this tough earthly journey more bearable and much more pleasant.
We have many types of friends. There are old friends. We’ve known them all of our lives. We have work friends, church friends, recreational friends, and friends we seldom see, yet, they are such good friends when we do see them we carry on as though we’ve never been apart. There are friends that we don’t even like all that much. We have fair weather friends, maybe some friends whom we don’t speak to anymore. Of course there are those friends who have hurt us, and friends we have hurt. Some friends stand beside us no matter what disagreements we’ve had. What about those friends who have come along at exactly the right time to help us. Those we’ve never seen before and will never see again? Perhaps those “angels unaware friends”.
There are new friends, young friends, friends of friends, and friends for a season. On and on through life’s cycle we make friends, people with whom we share the joys, the celebrations, the heartaches, anxieties and fears, times of waiting, and periods of sorrow. And we have friends who we will never see again, at least in this world. For them we mourn. We are indeed people of great wealth if we have friends. Friends, gifts from God, who make this tough earthly journey more bearable and much more pleasant.
Monday, February 26, 2018
Unlawful Sexual Relations
The Bible was given so that mankind would know who God is. In the scriptures men and women see how they can know God personally, and how they can receive salvation. The words from the Bible seem to indicate that God was serious about the laws and decrees he gave to us. In the book of Leviticus chapter 18, which not many read, God told Moses to give his people instructions about the sexual acts that he considered unlawful. In other words God was saying, “Don’t ever do these things.” These were laws God expected the people to obey.
The Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘I am the Lord your God. You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. Keep my decrees and laws, for the person who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord.
“‘No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the Lord.
“‘Do not dishonor your father by having sexual relations with your mother. She is your mother; do not have relations with her.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your father’s wife; that would dishonor your father.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your sister…”
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your son’s daughter or your daughter’s daughter; that would dishonor you.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with the daughter of your father’s wife, born to your father; she is your sister.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your father’s sister; she is your father’s close relative.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your mother’s sister, because she is your mother’s close relative.
“‘Do not dishonor your father’s brother by approaching his wife to have sexual relations; she is your aunt.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your daughter-in-law. She is your son’s wife; do not have relations with her.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your brother’s wife; that would dishonor your brother.
“‘Do not take your wife’s sister as a rival wife and have sexual relations with her while your wife is living.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your neighbor’s wife and defile yourself with her.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.
Some of the sexual don’ts in this list are considered against the laws of society. If a person is found guilty of committing them they will suffer harsh penalties. In some societies the guilty would be put to death. I find it interesting, however, that in most places one or two of these biblical no no’s are condoned, even celebrated. For some, it is believed that even Jesus honors such behavior. Did God change his mind? Was he just kidding when he told Moses which ones were detestable? Did God really mean it when he said, “This is dishonorable, this will defile you?” I think just about everybody is repulsed when they hear a grandfather has had sexual relations with his granddaughter, or a family member has had sexual relations, consensual or not, with a close member of their family.
So are we left to decide which of these are unlawful and which are not? Apparently a great part of our world thinks we are. There are many ways in which we sin. Everyone makes decisions every day about what they will do, what they will not do, how they will live their life. But the key to making any decision should be based on this, “I am the Lord your God. You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. Keep my decrees and laws, for the person who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord,” the words God spoke to Moses. Personally. I believe that God meant what he said. I don't think he has changed his mind.
The Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘I am the Lord your God. You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. Keep my decrees and laws, for the person who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord.
“‘No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the Lord.
“‘Do not dishonor your father by having sexual relations with your mother. She is your mother; do not have relations with her.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your father’s wife; that would dishonor your father.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your sister…”
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your son’s daughter or your daughter’s daughter; that would dishonor you.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with the daughter of your father’s wife, born to your father; she is your sister.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your father’s sister; she is your father’s close relative.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your mother’s sister, because she is your mother’s close relative.
“‘Do not dishonor your father’s brother by approaching his wife to have sexual relations; she is your aunt.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your daughter-in-law. She is your son’s wife; do not have relations with her.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your brother’s wife; that would dishonor your brother.
“‘Do not take your wife’s sister as a rival wife and have sexual relations with her while your wife is living.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with your neighbor’s wife and defile yourself with her.
“‘Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.
Some of the sexual don’ts in this list are considered against the laws of society. If a person is found guilty of committing them they will suffer harsh penalties. In some societies the guilty would be put to death. I find it interesting, however, that in most places one or two of these biblical no no’s are condoned, even celebrated. For some, it is believed that even Jesus honors such behavior. Did God change his mind? Was he just kidding when he told Moses which ones were detestable? Did God really mean it when he said, “This is dishonorable, this will defile you?” I think just about everybody is repulsed when they hear a grandfather has had sexual relations with his granddaughter, or a family member has had sexual relations, consensual or not, with a close member of their family.
So are we left to decide which of these are unlawful and which are not? Apparently a great part of our world thinks we are. There are many ways in which we sin. Everyone makes decisions every day about what they will do, what they will not do, how they will live their life. But the key to making any decision should be based on this, “I am the Lord your God. You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. Keep my decrees and laws, for the person who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord,” the words God spoke to Moses. Personally. I believe that God meant what he said. I don't think he has changed his mind.
Sunday, February 25, 2018
This Is Jesus
When he went to the temple as a young boy the teachers asked him, “Son, how old are you?
On my mother’s side I’m twelve years old, but on my Father’s side I am older than my mother and just as old as my Father.
On his mother’s side he got thirsty, but on his Father’s side he created the oceans, the lakes, the brooks and the springs. He said, “I am the living water, if you are thirsty come to me and drink.”
On his mother’s side he got hungry, but on his Father’s side he fed five thousand. He said, “I am the bread of life.”
On his mother’s side he lived in poverty and was homeless. On his Father’s side he created the universe and owns the cattle on a thousand hills.
On his mother’s side with a broken heart he wept at Lazarus’ tomb, but on his Father’s side he said, “Lazarus come forth!”
And Lazarus came out of that grave.
Adrian Rogers
That is Jesus.
On my mother’s side I’m twelve years old, but on my Father’s side I am older than my mother and just as old as my Father.
On his mother’s side he got thirsty, but on his Father’s side he created the oceans, the lakes, the brooks and the springs. He said, “I am the living water, if you are thirsty come to me and drink.”
On his mother’s side he got hungry, but on his Father’s side he fed five thousand. He said, “I am the bread of life.”
On his mother’s side he lived in poverty and was homeless. On his Father’s side he created the universe and owns the cattle on a thousand hills.
On his mother’s side with a broken heart he wept at Lazarus’ tomb, but on his Father’s side he said, “Lazarus come forth!”
And Lazarus came out of that grave.
Adrian Rogers
That is Jesus.
Saturday, February 24, 2018
Those Forbidden Wants
To want something may be the first response of the human being. The moment a baby is born it cries. Is that crying because of pain, fear or is it because of some need or desire; something he wanted? Wants can certainly get a person in trouble if they are something he shouldn’t have. Wants aren’t necessarily bad if they are truly something we need and should have. But wants that a people have for something that doesn’t belong to them are not good. In the Bible those kinds of wants are called sin if we proceed to take them. A child wants another child’s toy. Someone wants another’s money. A student wants his classmates answer when taking an exam. A man wants another man’s wife, or a woman wants a friend’s husband. To act by taking these things away from the rightful owner is sin.
My first memory of wanting and taking something that I was told I couldn’t have was when I was 41/2 years old right after my baby brother was born. His baby bed was in my parent’s bedroom. Attached to the head of the bed was a little mobile with little dangly things hanging down for him to watch. That was not what I wanted. I wanted the suction cup which had been stuck on the headboard to hold the mobile in place. I was amazed at how you could pull it off and stick it back on, and I wanted to play with it. When my mom was first attaching it she let me stick it on and take it off a few times and then she said, “That’s enough! Don’t bother it any more! This is for Michael.”
I don’t exactly remember my reasoning, but I think it went something like this. “I didn’t want or ask for this kid in the first place. He’s not playing with it. All he does is sleep, and drool all over himself. He’s not even looking at it. So what’s the harm if I play with it?” I waited for the perfect opportunity to satisfy my greatest desire, the thing which would give me what I wanted most, and make me happy.
My mother was in the kitchen, probably cooking supper. Quietly, I sneaked into the bedroom, pushed a chair up beside the baby bed, and climbed up so that I could get to the greatest, toy in the world. I reached through the railing, grabbed that suction cup and yanked it off. Down came those dangly things right on top of Michael. He began screaming! He gave me up, and mom came running in yelling, “JohnPaul, what have you done?” I only had seconds to stick that suction cup onto something. Quickly I tried to think of the best place to stick it, and being the genius that I was I chose the closest available place. I stuck it over my eye. At that moment my mother entered the room, and she was not happy.
Put yourself in my place. If you were only four and a half, had a suction cup stuck to your eye, and your angry mother is glaring at you what would you do? I know, you would run, and that is exactly what I did. My mother was right behind me yelling for me not to run. Running with a pointy object stuck to your eye was not a good thing. But I solved that problem. When in panic mode all wise reasoning tends to fail us. I grabbed the wooden peg on which the suction cup was held, and I pulled with all my might. There was that noise, like when pressure is released from an object, and then there was terrible pain. Do you know what it feels like to almost have your eyeball sucked out of its socket? I do, and it is not pleasant.
My eye looked horrible. I was taken to the doctor, and he said I would be fine. That suctioned eyeball was very red for a few days and just about the whole side of my face was black, purple with a tint of yellow for a while, and after a couple of days the blurriness went away. I wish I could say that I learned my lesson about violating the law of wants, and desires, but I didn’t. In fact over the years I have gotten in worse trouble than almost losing an eye, because I went after those forbidden wants.
My first memory of wanting and taking something that I was told I couldn’t have was when I was 41/2 years old right after my baby brother was born. His baby bed was in my parent’s bedroom. Attached to the head of the bed was a little mobile with little dangly things hanging down for him to watch. That was not what I wanted. I wanted the suction cup which had been stuck on the headboard to hold the mobile in place. I was amazed at how you could pull it off and stick it back on, and I wanted to play with it. When my mom was first attaching it she let me stick it on and take it off a few times and then she said, “That’s enough! Don’t bother it any more! This is for Michael.”
I don’t exactly remember my reasoning, but I think it went something like this. “I didn’t want or ask for this kid in the first place. He’s not playing with it. All he does is sleep, and drool all over himself. He’s not even looking at it. So what’s the harm if I play with it?” I waited for the perfect opportunity to satisfy my greatest desire, the thing which would give me what I wanted most, and make me happy.
My mother was in the kitchen, probably cooking supper. Quietly, I sneaked into the bedroom, pushed a chair up beside the baby bed, and climbed up so that I could get to the greatest, toy in the world. I reached through the railing, grabbed that suction cup and yanked it off. Down came those dangly things right on top of Michael. He began screaming! He gave me up, and mom came running in yelling, “JohnPaul, what have you done?” I only had seconds to stick that suction cup onto something. Quickly I tried to think of the best place to stick it, and being the genius that I was I chose the closest available place. I stuck it over my eye. At that moment my mother entered the room, and she was not happy.
Put yourself in my place. If you were only four and a half, had a suction cup stuck to your eye, and your angry mother is glaring at you what would you do? I know, you would run, and that is exactly what I did. My mother was right behind me yelling for me not to run. Running with a pointy object stuck to your eye was not a good thing. But I solved that problem. When in panic mode all wise reasoning tends to fail us. I grabbed the wooden peg on which the suction cup was held, and I pulled with all my might. There was that noise, like when pressure is released from an object, and then there was terrible pain. Do you know what it feels like to almost have your eyeball sucked out of its socket? I do, and it is not pleasant.
My eye looked horrible. I was taken to the doctor, and he said I would be fine. That suctioned eyeball was very red for a few days and just about the whole side of my face was black, purple with a tint of yellow for a while, and after a couple of days the blurriness went away. I wish I could say that I learned my lesson about violating the law of wants, and desires, but I didn’t. In fact over the years I have gotten in worse trouble than almost losing an eye, because I went after those forbidden wants.
Friday, February 23, 2018
Those Slimy, Sneaky Scoundrels
He is everywhere! He sneaks around quietly right before our eyes, yet, we don’t hear him. This common intruder has caused confusion, and wreaked havoc on the pages of written word throughout the world for ages. This inconspicuous villain is called Silent Letter. Because of Silent Letter students have struggled as they try to put letters together to create words. They have agonized over the weekly spelling quiz, composing a simple essay, and writing that summer camp letter to send home to mom and dad. Silent Letter, probably the culprit for countless emotional breakdowns!
Silent letter has many disguises. He appears not just as one letter, but many. Rules have appeared in English books, like wanted posters on the post office bulletin board, to help identify this enemy of word construction, but often the rules leave us even more confused. For instance, consider Silent H. He is not heard when he comes after W. We see him there in words like “when”, and “what”, but he is really not there when we think he should be pronounced. We see him in the word “whether” and because he is not pronounce poor “whether” is very often misspelled.
Silent H appears incognito in yet another form. He is silent when he is seen at the beginning of many words. “Hour” is pronounced “our” which is another word altogether. “Honest”, and “honour” are weighted down by that unnecessary Silent H. I don’t think he is honorable or honest. But Silent H makes himself even more difficult to detect because he hides behind an exception. We hear him loud and clear when he begins the words “hill”, “history” and “happy”. He shouts at us, teasing us, questioning us, “Can you hear me now?” Just when we think we may have captured Silent H he runs and partners with C, G and R. He holds hands with them standing on their right. “Choir”, “chorus”, “aghast”, and “rhythm” provide sanctuary for Silent H and our spelling woes continue.
When Silent H joins forces with G as in GH and they follow a vowel more serious problems arise. There they are, that G and H, but who would even think about including them in words like “thought”, “drought”, and even your sweet “daughter”? The unsuspecting novice would not use them in situations like this unless he was spelling “doghouse” or “bighead” which are actually two words put together. What about that dastardly duo when they flaunt themselves in words such as “rough”, “laugh” and “cough”? I don’t know how they get away with this , but they sound like F in those words!
Silent H is an “honorary” dude. I have written “enough” about him. I could “design” a “sign” about Silent G, or Silent E but for now I will not “write” anything about them. I am tempted to tell you about Silent D. I may do that on “Wednesday”. Silent B is interesting, but I “doubt” if you want to hear about this “subtle” scoundrel. And finally I “guess” I will “guard” against getting into Silent U’s background. I’m too exhausted to deal with this army of Silent offenders any longer. How did we ever learn to spell anything?
Silent letter has many disguises. He appears not just as one letter, but many. Rules have appeared in English books, like wanted posters on the post office bulletin board, to help identify this enemy of word construction, but often the rules leave us even more confused. For instance, consider Silent H. He is not heard when he comes after W. We see him there in words like “when”, and “what”, but he is really not there when we think he should be pronounced. We see him in the word “whether” and because he is not pronounce poor “whether” is very often misspelled.
Silent H appears incognito in yet another form. He is silent when he is seen at the beginning of many words. “Hour” is pronounced “our” which is another word altogether. “Honest”, and “honour” are weighted down by that unnecessary Silent H. I don’t think he is honorable or honest. But Silent H makes himself even more difficult to detect because he hides behind an exception. We hear him loud and clear when he begins the words “hill”, “history” and “happy”. He shouts at us, teasing us, questioning us, “Can you hear me now?” Just when we think we may have captured Silent H he runs and partners with C, G and R. He holds hands with them standing on their right. “Choir”, “chorus”, “aghast”, and “rhythm” provide sanctuary for Silent H and our spelling woes continue.
When Silent H joins forces with G as in GH and they follow a vowel more serious problems arise. There they are, that G and H, but who would even think about including them in words like “thought”, “drought”, and even your sweet “daughter”? The unsuspecting novice would not use them in situations like this unless he was spelling “doghouse” or “bighead” which are actually two words put together. What about that dastardly duo when they flaunt themselves in words such as “rough”, “laugh” and “cough”? I don’t know how they get away with this , but they sound like F in those words!
Silent H is an “honorary” dude. I have written “enough” about him. I could “design” a “sign” about Silent G, or Silent E but for now I will not “write” anything about them. I am tempted to tell you about Silent D. I may do that on “Wednesday”. Silent B is interesting, but I “doubt” if you want to hear about this “subtle” scoundrel. And finally I “guess” I will “guard” against getting into Silent U’s background. I’m too exhausted to deal with this army of Silent offenders any longer. How did we ever learn to spell anything?
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
Funny How God Works
God impacted and changed many lives through the ministry of Reverend Billy Graham. Much has been said about how he ministered to presidents, world leaders, and dignitaries. However, as important as it was for those people to receive Dr. Graham’s counsel, the Gospel message that he brought to the millions of people all over the world will no doubt highlight his legacy. God powerfully used Billy Graham to bring the masses to Jesus. I am sure that lives continue to be changed today because of the sermons he preached even as far back as the 1950’s.
Here is an example to bear this out. When I was 5 years old and Mike, my brother, was a baby our mother was about ready to leave my dad. He spent most of his time with his buddies at the VFW every night playing cards and drinking. My mother was a strong Christian lady, and she loved my dad with all of her heart. But she was fed up with his behavior. One night she got a ride to the VFW and with Mike on her hip, and me holding her hand, she marched into that establishment, and told my dad that he would take us home right then, or she was leaving him. Daddy was a smart guy. He got up from the table and followed mom out to the car. As far as I know he never went back.
Daddy was not a Christian, and he never went to church. We had a neat pastor who loved Jesus and loved to tell people about him. His name was Kenneth Houchin. Brother Houchin made friends with daddy and talked him into riding a bus with other members of the church to Louisville to hear Rev. Graham preach at a crusade that was being held there. That night my dad was touched by what he heard and saw. The message, the singing, and no doubt the response of thousands of people who went down and accepted Jesus as Savior touched my dad’s heart. He did not make a decision that night, but soon after he returned home Bro. Houchin came to see my dad. He said, “Victor we need to talk.” Daddy went with him, and after Bro. Houchin explained how he could ask Jesus to save him my dad was ready. There was no doubt what he needed to do, and that afternoon my dad was saved. His life was changed. Victor Brady became a different man that afternoon.
Billy Graham and Kenneth Houchin were men of God who were able to lead my dad to Jesus. Now both of them and my dad are in heaven, but because they were obedient to God lives continue to be changed today. One or I guess two examples happen to be my brother and me. Very often when a dad is not a Christian and does not go to Church their sons follow in their footsteps. I have described Mike as being a renegade in high school, but he had been saved, and he did go to church. Although I was not as bad as Mike I did have my problems. Sherri and I finished college, got married, acquired jobs teaching school, and I also coached basketball and baseball. My life was consumed by sports. My focus was not on God. In 1972 our dad got very sick and in just a few days he died. His death was a life changer for Mike and me. We were both devastated.
Not long after daddy’s death Mike made a big turn around. In a year or so he felt God calling him into the ministry. Soon after that he got married, and he and his wife, Lisa, accepted a pastorate in Bowling Green Kentucky where Mike was also a student at Western Kentucky University. Mike continues to pastor where he has been for the past 26 years.
In 1973 my home church voted to make me a deacon. I can’t explain it, nobody mentioned it to me, but I knew as the church was voting at the end of the Sunday morning service that I would be selected as deacon. I was not surprised when that afternoon the pastor knocked on our door to tell Sherri and me what I had expected. I had been chosen to be a deacon. A year later I knew that God wanted me to go into the ministry, but the problem was I didn’t want to do it. I didn’t think I could. I didn’t like to speak in public. After a few months of fighting it, I gave in to God and accepted the call to preach.
After both Mike and I had become preachers and pastors, our mother told us that our dad had prayed every day that God would call us into the preaching ministry. I’m sure God did with us what he created us to do, but I also believe that he put it in my dad’s heart that preaching was what the two of us should do with our lives. I wonder sometimes if Mike and I would have stayed in church and would have ever become pastors if our dad had not listened to Brother Houchin, and had not heard Dr. Graham preach that night. We might have ended up at the VFW playing cards and drinking beer.
In 1950-something a young evangelist from North Carolina preached a sermon in Louisville, Kentucky, and an old farm boy who had two little sons heard it. There was a young pastor who befriended that rough farm boy, took him to hear that evangelist, and later told him how he could know Jesus as his Savior. Those two little boys became preachers, have preached many sermons, have been blessed to minister to no telling how many people and baptized a good number of them since the early 1970’s. Five men connected by a movement, a ministry to tell people about Jesus. That’s the way God planned to redeem the lost and dying. This same story, I am sure, has been repeated thousands of times all around the world.
This morning my daughter, Susan, got to school. One of her students was leaving. Susan asked her where she was going. The little fifth grade girl told her that her mother was coming to get her. “What’s wrong?” Susan asked. “I don’t know! The last time this happened my grandfather had died”, the little girl answered. Susan told her that it probably wasn’t anything bad. Later in the morning Susan learned the the little girl's great grandfather had passed away. Her great grandfather is Dr. Billy Graham, and her grandmother is Ann Graham Lotz. It was Ann’s husband and the little girl's grandfather who tragically drowned last year. Susan has also taught Dr. Graham's other two great granddaughters who attend her school. Susan has shared the story about my dad with these young girls. Small world, isn’t it?
Here is an example to bear this out. When I was 5 years old and Mike, my brother, was a baby our mother was about ready to leave my dad. He spent most of his time with his buddies at the VFW every night playing cards and drinking. My mother was a strong Christian lady, and she loved my dad with all of her heart. But she was fed up with his behavior. One night she got a ride to the VFW and with Mike on her hip, and me holding her hand, she marched into that establishment, and told my dad that he would take us home right then, or she was leaving him. Daddy was a smart guy. He got up from the table and followed mom out to the car. As far as I know he never went back.
Daddy was not a Christian, and he never went to church. We had a neat pastor who loved Jesus and loved to tell people about him. His name was Kenneth Houchin. Brother Houchin made friends with daddy and talked him into riding a bus with other members of the church to Louisville to hear Rev. Graham preach at a crusade that was being held there. That night my dad was touched by what he heard and saw. The message, the singing, and no doubt the response of thousands of people who went down and accepted Jesus as Savior touched my dad’s heart. He did not make a decision that night, but soon after he returned home Bro. Houchin came to see my dad. He said, “Victor we need to talk.” Daddy went with him, and after Bro. Houchin explained how he could ask Jesus to save him my dad was ready. There was no doubt what he needed to do, and that afternoon my dad was saved. His life was changed. Victor Brady became a different man that afternoon.
Billy Graham and Kenneth Houchin were men of God who were able to lead my dad to Jesus. Now both of them and my dad are in heaven, but because they were obedient to God lives continue to be changed today. One or I guess two examples happen to be my brother and me. Very often when a dad is not a Christian and does not go to Church their sons follow in their footsteps. I have described Mike as being a renegade in high school, but he had been saved, and he did go to church. Although I was not as bad as Mike I did have my problems. Sherri and I finished college, got married, acquired jobs teaching school, and I also coached basketball and baseball. My life was consumed by sports. My focus was not on God. In 1972 our dad got very sick and in just a few days he died. His death was a life changer for Mike and me. We were both devastated.
Not long after daddy’s death Mike made a big turn around. In a year or so he felt God calling him into the ministry. Soon after that he got married, and he and his wife, Lisa, accepted a pastorate in Bowling Green Kentucky where Mike was also a student at Western Kentucky University. Mike continues to pastor where he has been for the past 26 years.
In 1973 my home church voted to make me a deacon. I can’t explain it, nobody mentioned it to me, but I knew as the church was voting at the end of the Sunday morning service that I would be selected as deacon. I was not surprised when that afternoon the pastor knocked on our door to tell Sherri and me what I had expected. I had been chosen to be a deacon. A year later I knew that God wanted me to go into the ministry, but the problem was I didn’t want to do it. I didn’t think I could. I didn’t like to speak in public. After a few months of fighting it, I gave in to God and accepted the call to preach.
After both Mike and I had become preachers and pastors, our mother told us that our dad had prayed every day that God would call us into the preaching ministry. I’m sure God did with us what he created us to do, but I also believe that he put it in my dad’s heart that preaching was what the two of us should do with our lives. I wonder sometimes if Mike and I would have stayed in church and would have ever become pastors if our dad had not listened to Brother Houchin, and had not heard Dr. Graham preach that night. We might have ended up at the VFW playing cards and drinking beer.
In 1950-something a young evangelist from North Carolina preached a sermon in Louisville, Kentucky, and an old farm boy who had two little sons heard it. There was a young pastor who befriended that rough farm boy, took him to hear that evangelist, and later told him how he could know Jesus as his Savior. Those two little boys became preachers, have preached many sermons, have been blessed to minister to no telling how many people and baptized a good number of them since the early 1970’s. Five men connected by a movement, a ministry to tell people about Jesus. That’s the way God planned to redeem the lost and dying. This same story, I am sure, has been repeated thousands of times all around the world.
This morning my daughter, Susan, got to school. One of her students was leaving. Susan asked her where she was going. The little fifth grade girl told her that her mother was coming to get her. “What’s wrong?” Susan asked. “I don’t know! The last time this happened my grandfather had died”, the little girl answered. Susan told her that it probably wasn’t anything bad. Later in the morning Susan learned the the little girl's great grandfather had passed away. Her great grandfather is Dr. Billy Graham, and her grandmother is Ann Graham Lotz. It was Ann’s husband and the little girl's grandfather who tragically drowned last year. Susan has also taught Dr. Graham's other two great granddaughters who attend her school. Susan has shared the story about my dad with these young girls. Small world, isn’t it?
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
Only Birds, Planes and Angels Have Wings
I had a dream that I was dying. There at the foot of my bed was a large being, glowing like the sun, with what appeared to be a set of angel wings in his hands. He looked at me and said, “I have been sent by God to escort you to heaven when you die. These are your wings. You are about to become an angel.”
I became very angry and rebuked that demonic impostor. I said, “You are a liar, and you are not a messenger from God. I am his precious child. God has promised me a rich inheritance given only to his children . When I die I will become like Jesus who has already prepared a home in heaven for me. I trust God to keep his word. He would not demote me by making me an angel. “You know that we, Christians, will rule and judge angels, not to mention things in this life, don't you?” 1 Corinthians 6:3 Children of God will be greater than the angels.
What are angels? They are heavenly messengers, and servants who praise God. They were created by God before the earth was created. God asked Job, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation … and all the angels shouted for joy?” (Job 38:4,7). If the angels shouted for joy when the foundation of the earth was laid they would have had to been created much earlier. In the Genesis 1 account of creation the angels were not mentioned.
The angels are mighty warriors who fight evil forces and the unseen spirits of this world. The Bible says, “Praise the Lord, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word” (Psalm 103:20). Now, do any of us want to leave this violent world and go to heaven only to become warriors who fight demons? I know I don’t.
Angels are powerful and strong. “And the angel of the LORD went out and struck down a hundred and eighty-five thousand in the camp of the Assyrians. (One angel killed 185,000 men in a matter of seconds.) And when people arose early in the morning, behold, these were all dead bodies.” Isaiah 37:36 The angels had to be powerful to go against the demonic forces of evil that carry out Satan’s wicked purpose.
"God had sent a message to Daniel by the Archangel Gabriel. Gabriel, who normally would have delivered God's message the moment after he got it, was unable, of himself, to get past the 'prince of the kingdom of Persia!' This prince was not human. He was a powerful demon. It took the power of another one of God's holy angels, Michael (the only other Archangel the Bible mentions), to come and help him fight his way through to deliver his message."
Angels are spiritual beings. Unlike us they are non-sexual. They can and do take on the form of men. They are great in power and wisdom. Angels are not devine and should not be worshipped. As with the conflict between the prince of Persia, they constantly fight battles unknown to us. Angels can appear to us in dreams and visions. That happens today, frequently, in Muslim countries.
Angels will never be human and humans will never be angels. There is nothing in the Bible that even remotely suggests that a person becomes an angel when they die. It is not biblical to say such a thing. To say of a loved one, when they die, that he has gotten his wings as though receiving some metorious honor, or that heaven gained another angel is a very unkind thing to say. It is to devalue that person’s decision to follow Jesus. It is to remove the most wonderful identity that a person can ever gain, Child of God. Anyone who knows the difference between a Christian and an angel will never want to be an angel. Don’t insult the dignity of the departed by inferring that they are angels. God loves the angels, but he loves us much more. We are his children and we won’t have wings when we go to be with him in heaven.
By the way, I just made up the part about the dream I said I had.
I became very angry and rebuked that demonic impostor. I said, “You are a liar, and you are not a messenger from God. I am his precious child. God has promised me a rich inheritance given only to his children . When I die I will become like Jesus who has already prepared a home in heaven for me. I trust God to keep his word. He would not demote me by making me an angel. “You know that we, Christians, will rule and judge angels, not to mention things in this life, don't you?” 1 Corinthians 6:3 Children of God will be greater than the angels.
What are angels? They are heavenly messengers, and servants who praise God. They were created by God before the earth was created. God asked Job, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation … and all the angels shouted for joy?” (Job 38:4,7). If the angels shouted for joy when the foundation of the earth was laid they would have had to been created much earlier. In the Genesis 1 account of creation the angels were not mentioned.
The angels are mighty warriors who fight evil forces and the unseen spirits of this world. The Bible says, “Praise the Lord, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word” (Psalm 103:20). Now, do any of us want to leave this violent world and go to heaven only to become warriors who fight demons? I know I don’t.
Angels are powerful and strong. “And the angel of the LORD went out and struck down a hundred and eighty-five thousand in the camp of the Assyrians. (One angel killed 185,000 men in a matter of seconds.) And when people arose early in the morning, behold, these were all dead bodies.” Isaiah 37:36 The angels had to be powerful to go against the demonic forces of evil that carry out Satan’s wicked purpose.
"God had sent a message to Daniel by the Archangel Gabriel. Gabriel, who normally would have delivered God's message the moment after he got it, was unable, of himself, to get past the 'prince of the kingdom of Persia!' This prince was not human. He was a powerful demon. It took the power of another one of God's holy angels, Michael (the only other Archangel the Bible mentions), to come and help him fight his way through to deliver his message."
Angels are spiritual beings. Unlike us they are non-sexual. They can and do take on the form of men. They are great in power and wisdom. Angels are not devine and should not be worshipped. As with the conflict between the prince of Persia, they constantly fight battles unknown to us. Angels can appear to us in dreams and visions. That happens today, frequently, in Muslim countries.
Angels will never be human and humans will never be angels. There is nothing in the Bible that even remotely suggests that a person becomes an angel when they die. It is not biblical to say such a thing. To say of a loved one, when they die, that he has gotten his wings as though receiving some metorious honor, or that heaven gained another angel is a very unkind thing to say. It is to devalue that person’s decision to follow Jesus. It is to remove the most wonderful identity that a person can ever gain, Child of God. Anyone who knows the difference between a Christian and an angel will never want to be an angel. Don’t insult the dignity of the departed by inferring that they are angels. God loves the angels, but he loves us much more. We are his children and we won’t have wings when we go to be with him in heaven.
By the way, I just made up the part about the dream I said I had.
What Color Will I Be in Heaven
A child randomly chooses a crayon from the Crayola box, and begins coloring a picture in his coloring book. It may be a picture of a fireman, a teacher, a soldier, a mommy or a daddy; it doesn't matter. Nor does it matter if he uses a red crayon or a green crayon to color the entire person. The child will be pleased regardless of the color, and his parents will praise him for doing a good job.
God decided before he created us what color we would be. He made some of us white, some of us dark skinned and the rest various shades in between. God knew what color would be best for us, just as he knew the best height and all of the other physical characteristics he gave us. God knew that none of those thing really mattered. God looked deeper than the color of our skin, our eyes, our hair or any of the physical traits that identifies us. He looked far inside of us, all the way into our souls, and he saw the real person that he created. He said, “Thi is good!”
God’s love for us is not determined by any of our physical characteristics. He loves us all the same. He loves a fat person just as much as he loves a skinny person, the poor as much as the rich, the black as much as the white. As we age, becoming more forgetful, less strong, more stooped, more wrinkled, and slower, God loves us the same as he did when we were young and more physically appealing. Unfortunately, we sometimes use a different criterion to judge each other. Today appearance is given too much importance in determining the worth of a person. Someone will decide, "I don't think I like you because you are too red, too green, have too many toes or have some other characteristic that makes you different from me." Where did we get the idea that if a person is not like us we won’t love them? We didn't get that idea from God. We just don’t love each other with the love of of the Father. God said that we must love everyone, even our enemies. God made us to look the way we look, and we should praise him for that.
The Bible tells us that one day after we die God is going to give us another body, a perfect body. That is exciting! I wonder if we will look the same way we do on earth? Will it matter? Are we to assume that we will be the same color in heaven that we are here on earth? I wonder what color I will be in heaven. Maybe everyone will be the same color. When God gives us our new bodies he may just reach randomly into his Crayola box, pull out a color and color us with that crayon. And he will say, “I really like that!” My favorite color is blue. You know, I always thought blue would be a good color for me.
Psalm 139: 13-16
Monday, February 19, 2018
Mad Enough to Bite a Nail in Two
Those experiences when we scratch our heads and say, “I can’t believe that just happened,” We’ve all had them. The older we get the more those kinds of things have happened to us. I’ve had a few, but I think the most bizarre experience I’ve ever had was when I was in Seminary back in the mid 1980’s in Ft. Worth, Texas.
My class load was heavy, I was stressed, and going through a bout of depression. On top of all that I came down with the flu. I was feeling sorry for myself, and at a point didn’t care if I lived or died. There was a large clinic on campus so I called to see if I could get an appointment. I was told that they were booked for the day, but that if I could come in late in the afternoon they would work me in. I would be the doctor’s last patient.
I arrived at the office at 4:30 that afternoon and was escorted to one of the examining rooms. The nurse told me that the doctor had two more patients to see, and then he would end his day by checking on me. Keep in mind that I was very sick. I could barely sit in the chair and hold my head up. I don’t know how long I had been waiting, but apparently it had been a while—a long while. I guess my feverish condition had taken me to La La Land where all sense of time had disappeared. Then there was that moment when I returned to reality, and I realized that the place had become very quiet. I noticed when I looked out the window that it was dark outside. I got up and opened the door. There was no one in sight. I yelled, “Is anybody here?” No one answered. I walked down the hall and yelled again. Still no answer. It was then that I knew everybody had left for the day, leaving me alone in the clinic.
Ordinarily I would have been mad enough to bite a nail in two. But I was too sick to react in any manner. I think my concern at the time was, am I going to be able to get out of the building? The front door did open and I left. A guy who is depressed, feeling down about himself, and wondering if anyone cares did not need to be left sick and forgotten in a doctors office. But somehow as I drove home I began to smile thinking how incredibly funny that whole situation was. ‘Those kinds of things only happen to me’, I thought. “Just my luck”, I whispered.
Yesterday a friend told me about getting on a a ride that spun around and around.. He was the only one riding. For some reason the not so reliable operator left leaving the ride spinning at full speed. I don’t remember how long my friend was on the ride before someone came to his rescue, but it was a long time. When the ride finally stopped he had to be helped to a bench where he sat for quite a while before he could even stand up. I think that may be worse than being forsaken in a doctor’s office.
The next day after being left alone at the clinic I actually felt better. I didn’t think I received any medical attention, but I did call to make sure I was not charged a fee for my disastrous visit. We all know how those doctors are! No charge of course, but I did get an apology. Even to this day I am a bit leery when I am waiting in one of those little rooms. and the door is closed. Now I never accept an appointment later than three in the afternoon.
Such is life when we think that everything is spinning out of control. We feel forgotten, unappreciated, wondering if anybody cares. We probably are overthinking our state of dispair. But the good news is that we have a Savior who is with us in all the spinning and confusion. We have one who will comfort us when we are left alone in our weakness. No need to bite the nail in anger. There is One whose hands were nail pierced, and he died on a cross for each of us. Better to cling to that cross praising Him for never leaving us or forsaking us.
My class load was heavy, I was stressed, and going through a bout of depression. On top of all that I came down with the flu. I was feeling sorry for myself, and at a point didn’t care if I lived or died. There was a large clinic on campus so I called to see if I could get an appointment. I was told that they were booked for the day, but that if I could come in late in the afternoon they would work me in. I would be the doctor’s last patient.
I arrived at the office at 4:30 that afternoon and was escorted to one of the examining rooms. The nurse told me that the doctor had two more patients to see, and then he would end his day by checking on me. Keep in mind that I was very sick. I could barely sit in the chair and hold my head up. I don’t know how long I had been waiting, but apparently it had been a while—a long while. I guess my feverish condition had taken me to La La Land where all sense of time had disappeared. Then there was that moment when I returned to reality, and I realized that the place had become very quiet. I noticed when I looked out the window that it was dark outside. I got up and opened the door. There was no one in sight. I yelled, “Is anybody here?” No one answered. I walked down the hall and yelled again. Still no answer. It was then that I knew everybody had left for the day, leaving me alone in the clinic.
Ordinarily I would have been mad enough to bite a nail in two. But I was too sick to react in any manner. I think my concern at the time was, am I going to be able to get out of the building? The front door did open and I left. A guy who is depressed, feeling down about himself, and wondering if anyone cares did not need to be left sick and forgotten in a doctors office. But somehow as I drove home I began to smile thinking how incredibly funny that whole situation was. ‘Those kinds of things only happen to me’, I thought. “Just my luck”, I whispered.
Yesterday a friend told me about getting on a a ride that spun around and around.. He was the only one riding. For some reason the not so reliable operator left leaving the ride spinning at full speed. I don’t remember how long my friend was on the ride before someone came to his rescue, but it was a long time. When the ride finally stopped he had to be helped to a bench where he sat for quite a while before he could even stand up. I think that may be worse than being forsaken in a doctor’s office.
The next day after being left alone at the clinic I actually felt better. I didn’t think I received any medical attention, but I did call to make sure I was not charged a fee for my disastrous visit. We all know how those doctors are! No charge of course, but I did get an apology. Even to this day I am a bit leery when I am waiting in one of those little rooms. and the door is closed. Now I never accept an appointment later than three in the afternoon.
Such is life when we think that everything is spinning out of control. We feel forgotten, unappreciated, wondering if anybody cares. We probably are overthinking our state of dispair. But the good news is that we have a Savior who is with us in all the spinning and confusion. We have one who will comfort us when we are left alone in our weakness. No need to bite the nail in anger. There is One whose hands were nail pierced, and he died on a cross for each of us. Better to cling to that cross praising Him for never leaving us or forsaking us.
Sunday, February 18, 2018
Approaching God
The Burnt Offering, the Grain Offering, the Fellowship Offering, the Sin Offering, the Guilt Offering, the Offering of Thanksgiving. What are these offerings? They were not special one time monetary pledges given for some annual event. These were offerings that God required of the Israelites. God gave Moses specific instructions how these offerings were to be presented and received. If given in the proper way all those involved, from the priests to the people, and even the objects used in the process, where considered holy before the Lord. Everything in the Tabernacle was made or built to God’s specifications making the Tabernacle Holy. Failure to follow God’s instructions could mean that a person would be cut off from their people or possibly be killed.
God was serious about everything around him being holy. All of these offerings were to be offered on the altar as an “aroma pleasing to the Lord”. In Leviticus those words are stressed over and over again and again. Whatever was presented to God and in the presence of God was to be a pleasing aroma to Him. Do you think God requires us to be a pleasing aroma to Him when we come into his presence? Do you think God would accept anything less than holiness from us when we approach him? Today millions of us will gather in our places of worship to hopefully praise and honor the Lord our God. What will we bring to him today? Will it be a pleasing aroma to him? What kind of Offering will you be today?
God was serious about everything around him being holy. All of these offerings were to be offered on the altar as an “aroma pleasing to the Lord”. In Leviticus those words are stressed over and over again and again. Whatever was presented to God and in the presence of God was to be a pleasing aroma to Him. Do you think God requires us to be a pleasing aroma to Him when we come into his presence? Do you think God would accept anything less than holiness from us when we approach him? Today millions of us will gather in our places of worship to hopefully praise and honor the Lord our God. What will we bring to him today? Will it be a pleasing aroma to him? What kind of Offering will you be today?
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Gentleness
“Let your gentleness be evident to all…” Philippians 4: 5
No matter where you live or where you are from you know him. He may be seen today in the big city, in a small town, or on a farm far from any urban area. He may be on a mission field, a church, a hospital or in thousands of different places. He may be anywhere in the world. He speaks many languages. He is a huge man, strong with a rough appearance. He is small in stature, meek, and unassuming. He speaks with a booming voice. He is quiet, and doesn't have much to say. He has many names, and he is making a positive difference in our world.
This man is found in every occupation, and in every culture. He is rich, and he is poor. He is educated, and uneducated, but most importantly he is a gentle man with a tender heart. The same things can be said of the gentle women of the world. A gentle person brings calm to almost any explosive relationship, to any person that is hurting, or torn by conflict within the depths of their being. These gentle souls can lighten the heavy load. They can bring a hush over the most volatile situation. The influence of a gentle presence is very much needed in our world today.
What is this humanity which wars on every front--within the heart and soul, toward its fellow man, and at the tremendous price of violating the right of every human to live in peace? What is this hatred which gave a young man the courage to destroy the lives of innocence? What misguided life path leaves a person void of even a hint of tenderness? No matter who you are, or what you believe you have to agree the world needs more men and women who bring a gentle influence to the hearts of people everywhere. Let your gentle, tender spirit touch the world wherever you go. May the gentle Spirit of Jesus be seen in each of us.
No matter where you live or where you are from you know him. He may be seen today in the big city, in a small town, or on a farm far from any urban area. He may be on a mission field, a church, a hospital or in thousands of different places. He may be anywhere in the world. He speaks many languages. He is a huge man, strong with a rough appearance. He is small in stature, meek, and unassuming. He speaks with a booming voice. He is quiet, and doesn't have much to say. He has many names, and he is making a positive difference in our world.
This man is found in every occupation, and in every culture. He is rich, and he is poor. He is educated, and uneducated, but most importantly he is a gentle man with a tender heart. The same things can be said of the gentle women of the world. A gentle person brings calm to almost any explosive relationship, to any person that is hurting, or torn by conflict within the depths of their being. These gentle souls can lighten the heavy load. They can bring a hush over the most volatile situation. The influence of a gentle presence is very much needed in our world today.
What is this humanity which wars on every front--within the heart and soul, toward its fellow man, and at the tremendous price of violating the right of every human to live in peace? What is this hatred which gave a young man the courage to destroy the lives of innocence? What misguided life path leaves a person void of even a hint of tenderness? No matter who you are, or what you believe you have to agree the world needs more men and women who bring a gentle influence to the hearts of people everywhere. Let your gentle, tender spirit touch the world wherever you go. May the gentle Spirit of Jesus be seen in each of us.
Unhappiness
Several years ago a catchy little song hit the charts, and it pretty much expressed the expectations of our society - “Don't Worry, Be Happy”. You are already singing it In your mind aren't you? That's your song for the day. Nobody wants to be unhappy. In fact some people think they should be happy all the time. Our children think that everything should go their way so they won't be unhappy. They whine saying, “There is nothing to do! I'm bored.” Poor little things. They aren't happy. Adults also lament over not being happy. “Woe is me. I can't afford that car, that house, that nice vacation. I'm stuck with my old stuff. I hate my job. I don't like my present situation. Poor me! I'm so unhappy.” Have you ever been there?
I have a newsflash for you. God doesn't intend for us to be happy all the time. We live in a fallen world. Bad things are going to happen to us. We get sick. We have accidents. Others do things that hurt us. Our plans fail. Our loved ones die. Many events in our live cause us to be unhappy. The sooner we accept the fact that we are going to experience unhappy moments, the better we will be able to deal with life. I think God would change the words to that song. Maybe he would tell us, “Don't Worry Even When You Are Unhappy.” When you are unhappy praise God. Set your mind on him, and thank him for what you do have. Thank him for the things in your life that do make you happy. Thank him for the joy you have in your heart because you are his child. Thank him that one day you will be in a place where nothing will ever cause you to be unhappy. Have a blessed day even if you are not happy.
I have a newsflash for you. God doesn't intend for us to be happy all the time. We live in a fallen world. Bad things are going to happen to us. We get sick. We have accidents. Others do things that hurt us. Our plans fail. Our loved ones die. Many events in our live cause us to be unhappy. The sooner we accept the fact that we are going to experience unhappy moments, the better we will be able to deal with life. I think God would change the words to that song. Maybe he would tell us, “Don't Worry Even When You Are Unhappy.” When you are unhappy praise God. Set your mind on him, and thank him for what you do have. Thank him for the things in your life that do make you happy. Thank him for the joy you have in your heart because you are his child. Thank him that one day you will be in a place where nothing will ever cause you to be unhappy. Have a blessed day even if you are not happy.
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Everyone Can Sing
I imagine there are hundreds of different species of birds. I have no idea how many. There are tiny birds like the hummingbird, and very large birds like eagles. Birds have different kinds of feathers with varieties of colors. Some birds eat seed, or insects, and others eat fish, rotting meat or just about anything they can find. Most birds that I know of sing, but they don’t sing the same song.
Every species has their own unique sound. Each songbird sings the same song that its kind has sung for ages. The sparrow sings its song, finches have theirs, the robin is known for his song, and the mockingbird fills the air with a song unlike all other birds. And so it is with each different bird. The songbirds like a choir harmonize to give a beautiful performance.
Other birds try to sing like the song birds, but their voices aren’t quite so pretty. The crow has an annoying sound, and the roosters voice becomes somewhat monotonous at the early morning hour. The duck can try as hard as he might, but comes up short as he tries to make a pleasant sound. These birds can’t help the way they sound. The only song they know or can sing is the one handed down to them by their ancestors.
Humans are a bit like birds when it comes to singing. Some have beautiful voices like the mocking bird, and some sound something like the crow or the duck. Then others fall somewhere in between the mocking bird and the crow. I guess in some way the ability to sing well is hereditary, but I’ve known siblings where one can sing and the other can’t. There is a way that, unlike songbirds, every person can sing the same beautiful song. Psalm 40: 3 says, “He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.”
So you sing like a duck or a crow; there is good news for you. You can still make a joyful, beautiful sound. You can sing a song that God will enjoy as much as he does that of the most lovely voice the world has ever heard. That is the voice of the one who praises Him. There is nothing sweeter to God’s ears as the song of praise from the mouth of one who loves Him, a song he put there because of His loving grace.
Every species has their own unique sound. Each songbird sings the same song that its kind has sung for ages. The sparrow sings its song, finches have theirs, the robin is known for his song, and the mockingbird fills the air with a song unlike all other birds. And so it is with each different bird. The songbirds like a choir harmonize to give a beautiful performance.
Other birds try to sing like the song birds, but their voices aren’t quite so pretty. The crow has an annoying sound, and the roosters voice becomes somewhat monotonous at the early morning hour. The duck can try as hard as he might, but comes up short as he tries to make a pleasant sound. These birds can’t help the way they sound. The only song they know or can sing is the one handed down to them by their ancestors.
Humans are a bit like birds when it comes to singing. Some have beautiful voices like the mocking bird, and some sound something like the crow or the duck. Then others fall somewhere in between the mocking bird and the crow. I guess in some way the ability to sing well is hereditary, but I’ve known siblings where one can sing and the other can’t. There is a way that, unlike songbirds, every person can sing the same beautiful song. Psalm 40: 3 says, “He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.”
So you sing like a duck or a crow; there is good news for you. You can still make a joyful, beautiful sound. You can sing a song that God will enjoy as much as he does that of the most lovely voice the world has ever heard. That is the voice of the one who praises Him. There is nothing sweeter to God’s ears as the song of praise from the mouth of one who loves Him, a song he put there because of His loving grace.
Diligence Equals Success
I began reading a book called, “The Richest Man Who Ever Lived: King Solomon's Secrets to Success, Wealth, and Happiness” written by Steven K. Scott. I liked the title. That’s why I bought the book. Who doesn’t want to be successful, have wealth (this refers to more than money) and happiness? I’m only into the third chapter, but I’m already seeing why people don’t reach these goals for themselves. I can look back and see why I experienced failure, especially when I was a young man.
Failure will always come to those who are not diligent. The author defined diligence: "DILIGENCE is a learnable skill that combines: creative persistence, a smart-working effort rightly planned and rightly performed in a timely, efficient, and effective manner to attain a result that is pure and of the highest quality of excellence." In other words diligence is the well planned effort of hard work and perseverance. Many of us have failed because we couldn’t take the continuous pressure of a difficult task. When I was in seminary I had a tough load of courses one semester. Greek was the most demanding class for me. At almost the halfway point in the semester I dropped the course although I had an average of an A. That was probably the dumbest thing I’ve ever done. I just decided on my own that dropping the class would be the best way to ease my difficult schedule.
This brings me to the second point. Everyone needs wise counsel. We need a partner, as Steven Scott puts it. We can always find someone who knows more than we do about anything we are doing. Find a person who has experience, someone who is not wrapped up in the pressure that you are experiencing. We all need somebody that will tell us the truth, not necessarily what we want to hear. If I had gone to my professor or an academic advisor I’m sure I would have avoided the mistake I made about dropping that class. I believe that if everyone would seek wise counsel there would be less failed marriages, fewer people losing their jobs, fewer people going into bankruptcy, more individuals avoiding illnesses because of unhealthy eating habits and abuses of alcohol, drugs and tobacco and fewer students performing far below excellence.
I think every high school student needs a class on how to be successful in life. They need to learn how to study efficiently, and they need someone who will hold them accountable while they are in school. Very often parents either don’t know how or don’t try to help their teenagers do what they should do. Our country’s priorities are out of line when it comes to education. Parents do too much for their children. They do everything they can to make life easy for them. They buy them whatever they want. Instead of spending hours each week studying our students spend hours on their IPhones and video games. Parents allow this and when their child makes a failing grade it’s the teachers fault. So many students fail or barely get by because they are not diligent and they don’t have anyone to give them wise counsel.
Lack of diligence in the workplace, home, government and in personal lives is hurting our nation. King Solomon said that the person who lacks diligence is a sluggard, lazy and a fool. Wow! That hurts. Sometimes the truth does hurt, but Jesus said, “The truth will set you free.”
Failure will always come to those who are not diligent. The author defined diligence: "DILIGENCE is a learnable skill that combines: creative persistence, a smart-working effort rightly planned and rightly performed in a timely, efficient, and effective manner to attain a result that is pure and of the highest quality of excellence." In other words diligence is the well planned effort of hard work and perseverance. Many of us have failed because we couldn’t take the continuous pressure of a difficult task. When I was in seminary I had a tough load of courses one semester. Greek was the most demanding class for me. At almost the halfway point in the semester I dropped the course although I had an average of an A. That was probably the dumbest thing I’ve ever done. I just decided on my own that dropping the class would be the best way to ease my difficult schedule.
This brings me to the second point. Everyone needs wise counsel. We need a partner, as Steven Scott puts it. We can always find someone who knows more than we do about anything we are doing. Find a person who has experience, someone who is not wrapped up in the pressure that you are experiencing. We all need somebody that will tell us the truth, not necessarily what we want to hear. If I had gone to my professor or an academic advisor I’m sure I would have avoided the mistake I made about dropping that class. I believe that if everyone would seek wise counsel there would be less failed marriages, fewer people losing their jobs, fewer people going into bankruptcy, more individuals avoiding illnesses because of unhealthy eating habits and abuses of alcohol, drugs and tobacco and fewer students performing far below excellence.
I think every high school student needs a class on how to be successful in life. They need to learn how to study efficiently, and they need someone who will hold them accountable while they are in school. Very often parents either don’t know how or don’t try to help their teenagers do what they should do. Our country’s priorities are out of line when it comes to education. Parents do too much for their children. They do everything they can to make life easy for them. They buy them whatever they want. Instead of spending hours each week studying our students spend hours on their IPhones and video games. Parents allow this and when their child makes a failing grade it’s the teachers fault. So many students fail or barely get by because they are not diligent and they don’t have anyone to give them wise counsel.
Lack of diligence in the workplace, home, government and in personal lives is hurting our nation. King Solomon said that the person who lacks diligence is a sluggard, lazy and a fool. Wow! That hurts. Sometimes the truth does hurt, but Jesus said, “The truth will set you free.”
Monday, February 12, 2018
The Florida Trip
We gazed out our window to see the smoke billowing from a large, angry volcano. Down below we could see several people swimming in the bay, oblivious to the potential danger. To the left children and women were floating lazily down a serene river. They seemed to be enjoying the tranquil environment with palm trees and other tropical vegetation swaying in the warm breeze. No one was paying any attention to the volcano. “What kind of place is this?”, Sherri said as she moved cautiously back away from the window. I said, “Oh, that’s just Volcano Bay, the water park. I would love to go down those huge water slides.” “You’re too old for that!” Sherri replied. The bay was a very large swimming pool at Cabana Bay Beach Resort where we stayed last week on our trip to Orlando.
Of course we have no small kids, and we didn’t take our grandchildren. It was only Sherri and me in Orlando for the purpose of going to Universal Studio and Universal’s Island of Adventure. I’ve never seen as many Harry Potters in all my life; small children, medium sized children, teens, college kids, young adults and crazy older adults, (Sherri and I not included) all dressed as Harry carrying around those magic wands. I’ve never seen anything like it.
Sherri and I rode several rides, if you want to call them rides. I don’t think we actually rode anywhere. The cars we were in jerked around, twisted, and bounced, and it looked like we were moving, but I think we were being fooled as what we were seeing was being projected on a giant screen. We did Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Skull Island Reign of Kong, and we road the Harry Potter train which did take us to Universal Studio. The Men in Black Alien Attack was pretty neat in that we got to shoot a aliens with our laser guns. I scored over 70,000 points. Sherri had just over a thousand. I don’t think she liked that ride very much. We did Sheri 4-D which was OK. Our favorite ride was Jimmy Fallon Race Through New York. I wanted to do the Transformer ride and the Homer Simpson ride, but Sherri didn’t want to. The Horror Show Make-Up Show was great. I also wanted to ride some roller coasters, but Sherri thought we were too old. The next time we go I think we will take Brady because he loves roller coasters. I don’t think I’m too old.
We really wanted to go to Epcot. Sherri and I were there in the late 1980’s and loved it. Both of us were looking forward to going back, but Sherri got the flu and we had to come home. The day after we got back I got it and just now beginning to feel a little better. We spent two days in Savannah Georgia on our way down to Orlando. We had a great time there. Savannah is such a beautiful historic place with lots of great places to eat.
Back to the beginning. The hotel in Orlando where we stayed was really neat. The whole place was done in a 50’s and 60’s motif. The rooms were brightly colored and the entire hotel was decorated to model those classic two decades. Cars from that time were parked out front. We even had Zest soap and VO/5 shampoo in our bathroom. The place wasn’t all that expensive and the service was great. I would recommend it especially to those of you who lived in the 50’s and 60’s, if you aren’t too old by now. I’ll have to admit that at the end of the day after we had been at the park from 7:30 that morning until 5:00 that evening we were exhausted. Our fitbits registered about 21,000 steps for each of us. That’s a lot even for younger folks. Anyway we had a great time even though our trip was cut short.
Of course we have no small kids, and we didn’t take our grandchildren. It was only Sherri and me in Orlando for the purpose of going to Universal Studio and Universal’s Island of Adventure. I’ve never seen as many Harry Potters in all my life; small children, medium sized children, teens, college kids, young adults and crazy older adults, (Sherri and I not included) all dressed as Harry carrying around those magic wands. I’ve never seen anything like it.
Sherri and I rode several rides, if you want to call them rides. I don’t think we actually rode anywhere. The cars we were in jerked around, twisted, and bounced, and it looked like we were moving, but I think we were being fooled as what we were seeing was being projected on a giant screen. We did Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Skull Island Reign of Kong, and we road the Harry Potter train which did take us to Universal Studio. The Men in Black Alien Attack was pretty neat in that we got to shoot a aliens with our laser guns. I scored over 70,000 points. Sherri had just over a thousand. I don’t think she liked that ride very much. We did Sheri 4-D which was OK. Our favorite ride was Jimmy Fallon Race Through New York. I wanted to do the Transformer ride and the Homer Simpson ride, but Sherri didn’t want to. The Horror Show Make-Up Show was great. I also wanted to ride some roller coasters, but Sherri thought we were too old. The next time we go I think we will take Brady because he loves roller coasters. I don’t think I’m too old.
We really wanted to go to Epcot. Sherri and I were there in the late 1980’s and loved it. Both of us were looking forward to going back, but Sherri got the flu and we had to come home. The day after we got back I got it and just now beginning to feel a little better. We spent two days in Savannah Georgia on our way down to Orlando. We had a great time there. Savannah is such a beautiful historic place with lots of great places to eat.
Back to the beginning. The hotel in Orlando where we stayed was really neat. The whole place was done in a 50’s and 60’s motif. The rooms were brightly colored and the entire hotel was decorated to model those classic two decades. Cars from that time were parked out front. We even had Zest soap and VO/5 shampoo in our bathroom. The place wasn’t all that expensive and the service was great. I would recommend it especially to those of you who lived in the 50’s and 60’s, if you aren’t too old by now. I’ll have to admit that at the end of the day after we had been at the park from 7:30 that morning until 5:00 that evening we were exhausted. Our fitbits registered about 21,000 steps for each of us. That’s a lot even for younger folks. Anyway we had a great time even though our trip was cut short.
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Our Take on God
How a person views God is incredibly critical. An individual's conception of what God thinks about him is also vital. Taking a step back and surveying life styles, what seems to capture that which people most value, and the level of satisfaction they get out of life I would say that society as a whole has no idea who God is, nor do they understand how he views each precious life. That is why there are so many suicides, so much drug and alcohol abuse, destructive behavior in schools, lack of cooperation among our world and national leaders, and all the other hate filled violent acts that define our society. What is God like? What does he expect from us?
When Moses went upon Mt. Sinai to meet God after he led the Israelites out of Egypt he received more than just the Ten Commandments. He was with God on that mountain for forty days. God gave Moses instructions, basically, about how he expected people to approach him. God told Moses in detail how he wanted everything made that would be used to worship and honor him. All the items for the Tabernacle were to be constructed exactly the way God said, right down to the clasps that would hold the curtains in the Tabernacle. He even explained how he wanted the loops on the curtains made. These curtains were for the purpose of separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. God designed the lamp stands, the altar, the courtyard, the Ark, the priestly garments, the altar of incense, the basin for washing, and he even gave Moses the recipe for the incense and the anointing oil. There are eight chapters in Exodus describing exactly how God wanted the Tabernacle constructed. (Exodus 24-31) Let me note here that after the Holy Spirit was given at Pentecost those who became believers were told that God would abide in them, and they would become a Tabernacle where the Holy Spirit would reside. God lives in each believe of Christ. Thus the believer’s soul is a Tabernacle of God.
Our God, who has never changed, would expect the Tabernacle of our hearts to be a very holy place just like that Tabernacle that he so carefully designed in the wilderness.
The last bit of instruction that God gave Moses was about who would be in charge of building this very intricate, ornate structure which would be the place where he would live. He said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.” Exodus 31:2-5 God even had a man chosen to see that the work was carried out the way he wanted. But we must note that the key was that Bezalel was filled with God’s own Spirit who gave him the ability and skills that he would need to complete the task. By the way, these words to Moses about Bezalel would be a great prayer for us every day.
Moses and the Israelites saw first hand how serious God was about the way they viewed him. They saw God’s terrible power, and the punishment that He inflicted upon them when they failed to approach him in the correct manner. They heard his voice and it frightened them. They told Moses that they wanted him to speak God’s word to them. They didn’t want to hear it directly from God ever again. The scriptures tell us that we must fear the Almighty God. We must approach him with reverence, something that most churches don’t do any more. I’m not sure we can honor Almighty God by entering the place of worship in shorts, a ball cap, and flip flops, while sipping on a Starbucks latte. I’m afraid we have lost that sense of reverent fear and awe for the Lord God Almighty.
When we have a correct, healthy view of who God is, and approach him in the proper manner we will quickly learn how he views us. He loves us with an everlasting love. He cares for each person more than anyone can know. He gave his Son, Jesus Christ, as a living sacrifice so that every one of our sins would be atoned. He has provided, at great cost, the way for us to live forever. He has secured for us an inheritance in heaven as his very own children. We will be free from the destructiveness of sin and will live in the presence of Jesus forever.
When Moses went upon Mt. Sinai to meet God after he led the Israelites out of Egypt he received more than just the Ten Commandments. He was with God on that mountain for forty days. God gave Moses instructions, basically, about how he expected people to approach him. God told Moses in detail how he wanted everything made that would be used to worship and honor him. All the items for the Tabernacle were to be constructed exactly the way God said, right down to the clasps that would hold the curtains in the Tabernacle. He even explained how he wanted the loops on the curtains made. These curtains were for the purpose of separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. God designed the lamp stands, the altar, the courtyard, the Ark, the priestly garments, the altar of incense, the basin for washing, and he even gave Moses the recipe for the incense and the anointing oil. There are eight chapters in Exodus describing exactly how God wanted the Tabernacle constructed. (Exodus 24-31) Let me note here that after the Holy Spirit was given at Pentecost those who became believers were told that God would abide in them, and they would become a Tabernacle where the Holy Spirit would reside. God lives in each believe of Christ. Thus the believer’s soul is a Tabernacle of God.
Our God, who has never changed, would expect the Tabernacle of our hearts to be a very holy place just like that Tabernacle that he so carefully designed in the wilderness.
The last bit of instruction that God gave Moses was about who would be in charge of building this very intricate, ornate structure which would be the place where he would live. He said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.” Exodus 31:2-5 God even had a man chosen to see that the work was carried out the way he wanted. But we must note that the key was that Bezalel was filled with God’s own Spirit who gave him the ability and skills that he would need to complete the task. By the way, these words to Moses about Bezalel would be a great prayer for us every day.
Moses and the Israelites saw first hand how serious God was about the way they viewed him. They saw God’s terrible power, and the punishment that He inflicted upon them when they failed to approach him in the correct manner. They heard his voice and it frightened them. They told Moses that they wanted him to speak God’s word to them. They didn’t want to hear it directly from God ever again. The scriptures tell us that we must fear the Almighty God. We must approach him with reverence, something that most churches don’t do any more. I’m not sure we can honor Almighty God by entering the place of worship in shorts, a ball cap, and flip flops, while sipping on a Starbucks latte. I’m afraid we have lost that sense of reverent fear and awe for the Lord God Almighty.
When we have a correct, healthy view of who God is, and approach him in the proper manner we will quickly learn how he views us. He loves us with an everlasting love. He cares for each person more than anyone can know. He gave his Son, Jesus Christ, as a living sacrifice so that every one of our sins would be atoned. He has provided, at great cost, the way for us to live forever. He has secured for us an inheritance in heaven as his very own children. We will be free from the destructiveness of sin and will live in the presence of Jesus forever.
Sunday, February 11, 2018
Old Folks Prayer
For the past week I have been posting stories from my book. Today’s post is the last selection from my book. It is called, “Old Folks Prayer”. I’m sure many who read my blog, Early He Speaks, were not aware that I had written a book. Below I have provided information about how you can get a copy. It can be ordered on Amazon.com, or I will be glad to send you a signed copy. Below I have included the mailing information if you want to get one from me.
Old Folks Prayer
Thank you Lord for reminding me of the state of my affliction and the reality of my limitations, for in my weakness you make me strong. I bow humbly in your presence recognizing your power and your supreme existence. I have no reason to boast in anything except Jesus and his saving grace. When I come into your presence I most graciously accept my place of servitude, and devote my life to you and to the welfare of others. As the beneficiary of your complete forgiveness I harbor no regrets, and I praise you that I am clothed in the righteousness of Jesus. I am free from the bondage of sin because of the blood of my Savior. Above all I thank you for your redemptive plan. Because I am your child I remain useful to you regardless of age, health, or any unfortunate circumstance that might define my life as I move closer to my final day on earth. I am yours Lord and you are mine. May I be encouraging and positive, not becoming distracted by the life changes that I may not understand. Lord I pray that I can stay mentally alert, and that I might maintain a countenance that reflects the love of Christ. I want to be kind, and be surrounded by people who are kind to me and those I love. Thank you for the wonderful life you have given me. Father before long you will take me to heaven where a new life I will begin. If this happens tomorrow that will be fine with me. Your plan is perfect, so may your will be done not only in my life, but in all the earth just as your will is done in heaven, now and forever. Amen
My book was published two years ago. The title is “Preachers, Teachers, and Other Sinners”. My vocation was teaching and preaching. I was bi-vocational, teaching middle school students for 27 years, and pastoring small Baptist churches for 40 years. Thus the title of my book, Teachers, Preachers and Other Sinners. I tell people, “Not everyone is a teacher, and not everyone is a preacher, but all of us are sinners.”
My book contains about 80 stories and devotions. I included stories about some of my teaching and preaching experiences. I also included stories about myself growing up on a farm in rural south western Kentucky. I put these stories in so that my grandchildren would have a record and information about their grandparents and great grandparents. I also wrote about some of the struggles my wife and I encountered during our seminary years. Many of the stories are funny, and some are touching. Almost all of the stories and devotions have a lesson based on scripture.
My book can be ordered on Amazon.com. The Paperbacks are $19.95 and it is avail and on Kindle for $6.99. I can sell them at a reduced price. I have a few paperbacks and some hardback copies left. I will send anyone who wants one a signed copy. Paperback are $12.95 and hardbacks are $19.95. My address is John Paul Brady 8522 Lasilla Way, Raleigh North Carolina 27616.
Old Folks Prayer
Thank you Lord for reminding me of the state of my affliction and the reality of my limitations, for in my weakness you make me strong. I bow humbly in your presence recognizing your power and your supreme existence. I have no reason to boast in anything except Jesus and his saving grace. When I come into your presence I most graciously accept my place of servitude, and devote my life to you and to the welfare of others. As the beneficiary of your complete forgiveness I harbor no regrets, and I praise you that I am clothed in the righteousness of Jesus. I am free from the bondage of sin because of the blood of my Savior. Above all I thank you for your redemptive plan. Because I am your child I remain useful to you regardless of age, health, or any unfortunate circumstance that might define my life as I move closer to my final day on earth. I am yours Lord and you are mine. May I be encouraging and positive, not becoming distracted by the life changes that I may not understand. Lord I pray that I can stay mentally alert, and that I might maintain a countenance that reflects the love of Christ. I want to be kind, and be surrounded by people who are kind to me and those I love. Thank you for the wonderful life you have given me. Father before long you will take me to heaven where a new life I will begin. If this happens tomorrow that will be fine with me. Your plan is perfect, so may your will be done not only in my life, but in all the earth just as your will is done in heaven, now and forever. Amen
My book was published two years ago. The title is “Preachers, Teachers, and Other Sinners”. My vocation was teaching and preaching. I was bi-vocational, teaching middle school students for 27 years, and pastoring small Baptist churches for 40 years. Thus the title of my book, Teachers, Preachers and Other Sinners. I tell people, “Not everyone is a teacher, and not everyone is a preacher, but all of us are sinners.”
My book contains about 80 stories and devotions. I included stories about some of my teaching and preaching experiences. I also included stories about myself growing up on a farm in rural south western Kentucky. I put these stories in so that my grandchildren would have a record and information about their grandparents and great grandparents. I also wrote about some of the struggles my wife and I encountered during our seminary years. Many of the stories are funny, and some are touching. Almost all of the stories and devotions have a lesson based on scripture.
My book can be ordered on Amazon.com. The Paperbacks are $19.95 and it is avail and on Kindle for $6.99. I can sell them at a reduced price. I have a few paperbacks and some hardback copies left. I will send anyone who wants one a signed copy. Paperback are $12.95 and hardbacks are $19.95. My address is John Paul Brady 8522 Lasilla Way, Raleigh North Carolina 27616.
Friday, February 9, 2018
Man Purse
I wonder how many of you ladies have bought a new purse, and when you began using it discovered that it wasn’t going to be what you thought it would be? Does that ever happen? I made a purchase of something a bit like a purse a couple of years ago for a specific purpose that was definitely not what I had expected. This thing turned out to be a curse, an item of frustration and embarrassment, not just for me, but also for my wife. Sherri teased me about getting a man purse. Although it is not really a man purse, that is what we have come to call it.
I bought it at that large knife store just off the interstate at Sevierville, Tennessee. It has 6 zippers with 8 or 9 compartments. I guess I should have known that I would be in a constant state of confusion trying to figure out which pocket, compartment or pocket I put things. The first time I used it was at a religious conference. Everyone was sitting at tables. Sherri and I were near the front and in the center of the conference hall. People were all around us. In my “man purse” I had ink pens, a highlighter, two bottles of water, my phone, a small notebook, a Bible, and a few other things I really didn’t need. Whenever I get something that I consider to be an organizational aid I tend to over do its intended purpose. That thing was stuffed.
The speaker began by telling us to turn to his chosen Bible text, and to take out our notes. Of course I needed an ink pen. The first thing I had to do was get rid of the two bottles of water which were in the way. The weird thing was that I don’t ever take water with me, anywhere! I began to unzip my, “man purse” to remove the water. Consider now that zipping sound. When there is a quiet environment that sound is deafening. Sherri punched me giving me that look. I placed the water on the table. My ink pens were in one of the compartments where the water had been. I tried to quietly unzip the one where I thought I had put the pens; there was that noise again, only not as long. As my luck would have it the pens were not in that pocket, just tissues which I never carry with me.
I don’t know why I did it, but I zipped the penless pocket back. Then I unzipped the other pocket where I had put the pens. Sherri was about ready to get up and leave. I still needed my small notepad. I wasn't sure where I had put it. There were two choices. Did I pick the right one? Of course not! There was another zipping episode. I was afraid to look at Sherri or anyone else for that matter.
I can imagine how well I would do on the Price Is Right if I were the contestant who had to pick one of three doors to win the grand prize. As quietly and slowly as I could I unzipped compartment number two. There was my notepad. Relieved that I had finally gotten everything I needed I took my “man purse” and placed it over by my water bottles. That stupid “man purse” hit one of those bottles, causing it to carom off the other one. It rolled off the table and onto the floor making a big water bottle splat. I hate to even guess what those sitting near me must have thought. Unfortunately, I knew what Sherri thought.
Luckily Sherri didn’t leave me. Later she was able to find some humor in what had happened with my man purse. I didn’t use that thing again until we went to Kentucky after Christmas. I also took it to Orlando on our recent trip to Universal Studios. I carry my toiletries in it now. You won’t believe how much stuff I can put in that thing. It works pretty well as long as I’m not rushed to find something, and if there are no noise restrictions.
I bought it at that large knife store just off the interstate at Sevierville, Tennessee. It has 6 zippers with 8 or 9 compartments. I guess I should have known that I would be in a constant state of confusion trying to figure out which pocket, compartment or pocket I put things. The first time I used it was at a religious conference. Everyone was sitting at tables. Sherri and I were near the front and in the center of the conference hall. People were all around us. In my “man purse” I had ink pens, a highlighter, two bottles of water, my phone, a small notebook, a Bible, and a few other things I really didn’t need. Whenever I get something that I consider to be an organizational aid I tend to over do its intended purpose. That thing was stuffed.
The speaker began by telling us to turn to his chosen Bible text, and to take out our notes. Of course I needed an ink pen. The first thing I had to do was get rid of the two bottles of water which were in the way. The weird thing was that I don’t ever take water with me, anywhere! I began to unzip my, “man purse” to remove the water. Consider now that zipping sound. When there is a quiet environment that sound is deafening. Sherri punched me giving me that look. I placed the water on the table. My ink pens were in one of the compartments where the water had been. I tried to quietly unzip the one where I thought I had put the pens; there was that noise again, only not as long. As my luck would have it the pens were not in that pocket, just tissues which I never carry with me.
I don’t know why I did it, but I zipped the penless pocket back. Then I unzipped the other pocket where I had put the pens. Sherri was about ready to get up and leave. I still needed my small notepad. I wasn't sure where I had put it. There were two choices. Did I pick the right one? Of course not! There was another zipping episode. I was afraid to look at Sherri or anyone else for that matter.
I can imagine how well I would do on the Price Is Right if I were the contestant who had to pick one of three doors to win the grand prize. As quietly and slowly as I could I unzipped compartment number two. There was my notepad. Relieved that I had finally gotten everything I needed I took my “man purse” and placed it over by my water bottles. That stupid “man purse” hit one of those bottles, causing it to carom off the other one. It rolled off the table and onto the floor making a big water bottle splat. I hate to even guess what those sitting near me must have thought. Unfortunately, I knew what Sherri thought.
Luckily Sherri didn’t leave me. Later she was able to find some humor in what had happened with my man purse. I didn’t use that thing again until we went to Kentucky after Christmas. I also took it to Orlando on our recent trip to Universal Studios. I carry my toiletries in it now. You won’t believe how much stuff I can put in that thing. It works pretty well as long as I’m not rushed to find something, and if there are no noise restrictions.
Delayed Recall
Delayed recall. If you are nearing the age of 60 remember these words, delayed recall. The term delayed recall will help you feel better about not being able to remember something when you cannot for the life of you remember it. I'm talking about something that you should remember--like the name of a good friend, your pastor, one of your physicians or maybe a grandchild.
I don't know how many times I have been embarrassed because I could not remember someone's name. I really don't forget the name. I am experiencing delayed recall. I will be able to to tell you the name, but not right now. It will come to me! I don't know when but when it does I will let you know. Actually there are many times that I experience delayed recall. Someone might ask, "Where did you and Sherri eat last night?" I know exactly where I ate, but sometimes when I am asked a question out of the blue like that without warning, I panic and go blank. There again the curse of not being able to remember strikes me, and I stand there staring into space as though the name of the restaurant will appear somewhere out there. When this happens I can easily explain that I know where we ate but at the moment I am experiencing delayed recall. The food was very good and I do recommend the place. As soon as I recall the name I will tell you.
Sometimes my recall system goes haywire. We have lived in so many different places that street addresses run together. Our current address is still a bit fresh in my mind since we have only lived here less than a year. There have been a few times when asked to give my Raleigh address that I have started to give a compilation of the addresses of the last two places we've lived--delayed recall. So far I have finally been able to give the correct address to whoever asks where I live. I think Sherri and I have lived in too many places, been in too many churches, met too many people and have had too much on our minds. We are both forced to plead delayed recall way too often. The good news is that one of us is usually able to think of what it is that the other one cannot remember.
I have told this story before, but I think now is a good time to tell it again. Sherri and I were going to get something to eat one evening when we lived in Northern Kentucky. As we drove toward several eating places we were trying to decide which place to eat.
Sherri said, "Why don't we eat at Ben Thomas?"
I started trying to figure out where that was. "Ben Thomas, I don't think I have ever heard of Ben Thomas", I said. Then it came to me. There is no restaurant named Ben Thomas. "Do you mean Bob Evans?", I asked.
"That's it! Bob Evans!, Sherri exclaimed. She was so excited.
No need to fret when you can't remember something that is very obvious to most normal people. The loss of memory is only temporary. Really, you are not experiencing forgetfulness. You are only having a moment of delayed recall. It is most common to those of us who are known as senior citizens. Get used to it. Delayed recall will be your constant companion. I just hope I don't come to the point where I can't recall delayed recall.
Wednesday, February 7, 2018
Trees
There was a pond hidden away amongst a brigade of large oak trees. One majestic oak stood higher and stronger than all the others. Thick green moss lay beneath him on a knoll which appeared as his throne. This was my favorite place, my retreat. Even a ten year old boy needs a place of solitude where he can go and do anything he wants. I spent hours lying on that rich green carpet pretending and thinking. I believe it was at this sacred place where I first heard from God.
This mighty oak dropped huge acorns that I hurled at frogs and turtles in our pond, as I relived those World War II scenes I had watched in the movies. My grand oak tree and his subjects were the playground for squirrels that I hunted in our woods. The tress were a sanctuary for all sorts of birds. They were also a Jungle Gym for boys like myself. The oaks limbs ascended like stair steps higher and higher daring my friends and me to climb further than the other. We climbed carefully and many time higher than we should have not wishing to be labeled a sissy by another less wise. We surprised ourselves many times at the heights we reached, not realizing that someday we would be challenged as adults to climb higher than we ever imagined we could climb, for reasons much more vital and so much more important.
Everyday God puts trees in our path and he says, "Climb, climb as high as you can go!" We can climb with confidence not fearing the dark clouds that descend upon us, nor backing down when we have a hard nut to crack. We can achieve any goal that God wants us to accomplish. Like the majestic oaks and the tough hickory trees, we must focus our eyes on God, lifting our arms to pray, always thanking him for the simple blessings that cost us nothing.
This mighty oak dropped huge acorns that I hurled at frogs and turtles in our pond, as I relived those World War II scenes I had watched in the movies. My grand oak tree and his subjects were the playground for squirrels that I hunted in our woods. The tress were a sanctuary for all sorts of birds. They were also a Jungle Gym for boys like myself. The oaks limbs ascended like stair steps higher and higher daring my friends and me to climb further than the other. We climbed carefully and many time higher than we should have not wishing to be labeled a sissy by another less wise. We surprised ourselves many times at the heights we reached, not realizing that someday we would be challenged as adults to climb higher than we ever imagined we could climb, for reasons much more vital and so much more important.
Everyday God puts trees in our path and he says, "Climb, climb as high as you can go!" We can climb with confidence not fearing the dark clouds that descend upon us, nor backing down when we have a hard nut to crack. We can achieve any goal that God wants us to accomplish. Like the majestic oaks and the tough hickory trees, we must focus our eyes on God, lifting our arms to pray, always thanking him for the simple blessings that cost us nothing.
Monday, February 5, 2018
NO! That Dirty Word
A couple of months after our granddaughter, Holly, was born my wife and I traveled to northern Kentucky to do a little baby sitting. This was the first time we had seen her since her birth, and it was always a treat to see her big brother, Brady. My daughter and her husband were excited to finally be able to get away for some alone time together. Sasha and Pa would be able to have the grandkids all to themselves.
One afternoon I took Brady down stairs to watch some TV. I think we were watching a World War II documentary, one of Brady’s favorites. Brady soon got distracted and decided that it would be fun to get upon the glass top coffee table and jump up and down. I quickly grabbed him, lifted him high in the air and placed him gently on the couch. Apparently, this registered in Brady’s mind as a funny little game. He got down off the couch and back up onto the coffee table he went. This time I picked him up and said, “No, Brady. You can’t do that.”
For some reason this two year old didn’t believe that Pa really meant no. Again Brady climbed back onto the coffee table and started jumping. Using a little more forceful approach I took Brady off the table, looked him straight in the eye and said, “NO! Brady, Pa said NO! Brady’s smile was replaced quickly by a very puzzled look. I put him down and he turned and ran up the steps. I could hear him as he climbed the stairs, “Pa said no, Pa said no.” He ran up to his grandmother, who was rocking Holly, looked at her and distressfully said to her, “Pa said no!” Children learn early in life that they don’t like the word no, especially when it comes from someone named Pa who is like a big playmate and is a lot of fun.
I don’t guess we ever reach an age when we like to hear the word no. No dashes our hopes. No negates our questionable desires. No destroys our plans. However, as we mature we learn that the answer no very often keeps us from making some terrible mistakes and saves us from experiencing unnecessary pain. If we listen we will find that God often says no to us. When God says no we need to listen to him.
There have been times in my life that God told me no, and I went ahead and did the deed anyway. I jumped up and down on that glass coffee table thinking I was having the time of my life. Finally, I went crashing through receiving painful gashes which pierced my soul. The result of disobeying God when he says no is pain and heartache. Maybe you have refused to listen to God when he said no to you. The best thing to do when God says no is what my grandson did. Just turn, walk away and say, “God said no, God said no!” And you might add, “Thank you God for guiding me away from those things that harm me and cause me pain.”
One afternoon I took Brady down stairs to watch some TV. I think we were watching a World War II documentary, one of Brady’s favorites. Brady soon got distracted and decided that it would be fun to get upon the glass top coffee table and jump up and down. I quickly grabbed him, lifted him high in the air and placed him gently on the couch. Apparently, this registered in Brady’s mind as a funny little game. He got down off the couch and back up onto the coffee table he went. This time I picked him up and said, “No, Brady. You can’t do that.”
For some reason this two year old didn’t believe that Pa really meant no. Again Brady climbed back onto the coffee table and started jumping. Using a little more forceful approach I took Brady off the table, looked him straight in the eye and said, “NO! Brady, Pa said NO! Brady’s smile was replaced quickly by a very puzzled look. I put him down and he turned and ran up the steps. I could hear him as he climbed the stairs, “Pa said no, Pa said no.” He ran up to his grandmother, who was rocking Holly, looked at her and distressfully said to her, “Pa said no!” Children learn early in life that they don’t like the word no, especially when it comes from someone named Pa who is like a big playmate and is a lot of fun.
I don’t guess we ever reach an age when we like to hear the word no. No dashes our hopes. No negates our questionable desires. No destroys our plans. However, as we mature we learn that the answer no very often keeps us from making some terrible mistakes and saves us from experiencing unnecessary pain. If we listen we will find that God often says no to us. When God says no we need to listen to him.
There have been times in my life that God told me no, and I went ahead and did the deed anyway. I jumped up and down on that glass coffee table thinking I was having the time of my life. Finally, I went crashing through receiving painful gashes which pierced my soul. The result of disobeying God when he says no is pain and heartache. Maybe you have refused to listen to God when he said no to you. The best thing to do when God says no is what my grandson did. Just turn, walk away and say, “God said no, God said no!” And you might add, “Thank you God for guiding me away from those things that harm me and cause me pain.”
Sunday, February 4, 2018
Two Men We Will Miss
While driving down to Savannah I heard a beautiful song which spoke a line with such a sweet, comforting message for me, and I’m sure for anyone whose heart is full of sorrow. It says,”Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. ” I think this line may be found in several songs. St. Thomas Moore is credited for penning this wonderful verse. He must have been inspired by this scripture,
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying…” (Revelation 21:4)
Just a few weeks ago many of my friends, and I from Lewisburg and Logan County, where I grew up, lost a very dear childhood friend in Gerald Hildabrand. I still can’t believe this fine man is gone. Yesterday we lost another special childhood friend from the same community. Freddie Borders was also an exceptional Christian man. In fact, he and Gerald, along with several other men in the community, met together every week to pray for the little town of Lewisburg Kentucky.
Freddie, Gerald and I taught together at Lewisburg school for several years. Freddie and I graduated in the class of 1966 at Lewisburg High School. Gerald graduate two years before us also LHS. Freddie was my very first friend in the first grade. Growing up in the country for 5 years neither of us knew many of the other kids. We didn’t even know each other. We were seated in alphabetical order, he in front of me (Borders, Brady), and we became best friends. Our first grade teacher seemed so old to us. We were very afraid of her. She never smiled. Yep, she was one of the tough ones that made sure her students minded her. We had to walk a straight line, literally. How can anyone expect 30 or 35 first graders to walk a straight line, stand still, keep quiet, and keep their hands off of each other? We hadn’t even had any kindergarten boot camp.
Very early in the year, probably the first week, Freddie and I had just gotten to our seats after recess when our lovely teacher barged into the room carrying one of those paddles with a long rubber band with a rubber ball on the end. Only this paddle was missing the rubber band and the ball. She was headed our way. It scared me to death because I could tell she was very angry. I don’t know what Freddie had done to rile her so, but she grabbed him up and began hitting him with that paddle. Her swings were so enthusiastic that she popped me in the head with one of her back swings. I felt sorry for Freddie, but I was relieved when our teacher went back to her desk and put the paddle away.
Freddie and I have remained friends. We spent the night at each other’s houses when we were kids. We hunted and fished. We were in a singing group with three other boys while in high school. Freddie was a talented musician teaching probably hundreds of kids to play musical instruments. He and I married sweet wives who gave us wonderful children who produced the most wonderful grandchildren. Freddie was a positive man, who always had a vision. When we went fishing Freddie knew where we would find fish, but if we didn’t find them there he knew why they weren’t there, and where they might have gone.
Freddie had a bird dog that he said was the best, and she would find us some quail. We had hunted all morning in the coldest, most uncomfortable weather I had experienced. No birds! Finally, his dog hit on a covey of quail. Slowly she moved in, and Freddie gave her the go ahead to flush them. The birds came up, and I managed to shoot one. The dog rushed to get my bird, but instead of bringing it back to me she ate it. I really didn’t blame her because we had been out there a very long time. I think one of my favorite things about Freddie was how positive he was.
Freddie and Gerald are in heaven now. I imagine Gerald has a lot to tell Freddie. Oh the stories they can tell. They both know how to spin a story. I wonder what they are talking about? One of these days I’m going to join them. I can tell a story or two myself! I really don’t know what they are doing, but I do know there is no sorrow going on with either of them. Jesus has taken care of that! There is no sorrow anywhere that heaven cannot heal.
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying…” (Revelation 21:4)
Just a few weeks ago many of my friends, and I from Lewisburg and Logan County, where I grew up, lost a very dear childhood friend in Gerald Hildabrand. I still can’t believe this fine man is gone. Yesterday we lost another special childhood friend from the same community. Freddie Borders was also an exceptional Christian man. In fact, he and Gerald, along with several other men in the community, met together every week to pray for the little town of Lewisburg Kentucky.
Freddie, Gerald and I taught together at Lewisburg school for several years. Freddie and I graduated in the class of 1966 at Lewisburg High School. Gerald graduate two years before us also LHS. Freddie was my very first friend in the first grade. Growing up in the country for 5 years neither of us knew many of the other kids. We didn’t even know each other. We were seated in alphabetical order, he in front of me (Borders, Brady), and we became best friends. Our first grade teacher seemed so old to us. We were very afraid of her. She never smiled. Yep, she was one of the tough ones that made sure her students minded her. We had to walk a straight line, literally. How can anyone expect 30 or 35 first graders to walk a straight line, stand still, keep quiet, and keep their hands off of each other? We hadn’t even had any kindergarten boot camp.
Very early in the year, probably the first week, Freddie and I had just gotten to our seats after recess when our lovely teacher barged into the room carrying one of those paddles with a long rubber band with a rubber ball on the end. Only this paddle was missing the rubber band and the ball. She was headed our way. It scared me to death because I could tell she was very angry. I don’t know what Freddie had done to rile her so, but she grabbed him up and began hitting him with that paddle. Her swings were so enthusiastic that she popped me in the head with one of her back swings. I felt sorry for Freddie, but I was relieved when our teacher went back to her desk and put the paddle away.
Freddie and I have remained friends. We spent the night at each other’s houses when we were kids. We hunted and fished. We were in a singing group with three other boys while in high school. Freddie was a talented musician teaching probably hundreds of kids to play musical instruments. He and I married sweet wives who gave us wonderful children who produced the most wonderful grandchildren. Freddie was a positive man, who always had a vision. When we went fishing Freddie knew where we would find fish, but if we didn’t find them there he knew why they weren’t there, and where they might have gone.
Freddie had a bird dog that he said was the best, and she would find us some quail. We had hunted all morning in the coldest, most uncomfortable weather I had experienced. No birds! Finally, his dog hit on a covey of quail. Slowly she moved in, and Freddie gave her the go ahead to flush them. The birds came up, and I managed to shoot one. The dog rushed to get my bird, but instead of bringing it back to me she ate it. I really didn’t blame her because we had been out there a very long time. I think one of my favorite things about Freddie was how positive he was.
Freddie and Gerald are in heaven now. I imagine Gerald has a lot to tell Freddie. Oh the stories they can tell. They both know how to spin a story. I wonder what they are talking about? One of these days I’m going to join them. I can tell a story or two myself! I really don’t know what they are doing, but I do know there is no sorrow going on with either of them. Jesus has taken care of that! There is no sorrow anywhere that heaven cannot heal.
Saturday, February 3, 2018
Purpose For Living
I realize that at my age I am considered a senior citizen. Some even refer to a person my age as being elderly. I really don’t like being called elderly. I am getting used to the term senior citizen though, and don’t mind that so much, especially when it gets me a discount on a meal or a motel room. I know I am getting old, but I don’t feel old, although a quick glance in the mirror would suggest otherwise. Hopefully, even at my age, I will have at least ten or fifteen more years on this earth. Actually, the number of years that I have remaining is not that important. What is important is what I will do with the years that God will allow me to live. How will God use me? What will be my purpose in the days ahead?
As an old geezer I can continue to spread the message of God’s love and honor him by proclaiming that his son, Jesus Christ, is the only answer for those who are lost in sin. I can do it when I have the opportunity to preach. I can do it with my writing, and I can do it by reflecting the love of Jesus by the way I live my life and relate to others. Every one of us can show the love of Christ no matter what our age.
Excerpt from my book: Teachers, Preachers and Other Sinners
As an old geezer I can continue to spread the message of God’s love and honor him by proclaiming that his son, Jesus Christ, is the only answer for those who are lost in sin. I can do it when I have the opportunity to preach. I can do it with my writing, and I can do it by reflecting the love of Jesus by the way I live my life and relate to others. Every one of us can show the love of Christ no matter what our age.
Excerpt from my book: Teachers, Preachers and Other Sinners
Friday, February 2, 2018
Manna-nut Bread
Hot banana nut bread is so good in the afternoon, with a cup of coffee, of course. For years Sherri and I have spent a few minutes after work and even now in retirement enjoying our coffee and sometimes having a little sweet treat. I love it when she has baked a loaf of banana nut bread for our afternoon rendezvous. What could be better?
I thought about this when I was reading my Bible this morning. I was reading how God sent bread from heaven to feed the Israelites. Do you know why he sent bread to them every morning? He did it because they had been grumbling, angrily I might add, against Moses and Aaron. These ingrates were about ready to hang their two leaders. If you have ever been a pastor you probably understand how Moses and Aaron felt. But doesn’t it seem strange that God would, in a sense, reward the Israelites because of their grumbling? These crazy people were wishing that they had stayed in Egypt as slaves. They said, “At least we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but now you have brought us into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.” Does that sound familiar?
A pastor or some church leaders decide to make a change, or begin a new ministry, or add something new to some area of the church. Those who disagree grumble. The moment something goes wrong somebody begins to grumble. They start spreading the word, “That pastor is trying to ruin our church. He is going to drive people away. He’s out to get us. Why did we ever call him!” Grumble, grumble, grumble. I’ve worked with a lot of pastors in a lot of churches and I have never know a single one who was trying to destroy the church. The pastor is not the enemy. In my last church the person who grumbled the most never heard me preach once in the three and half years I was there. As soon as Sunday school was over she went home. That was the extent of her church participation, unless she came to a business meeting to attack somebody. Yet, she was upset with everything that was done.
Well God had a reason for keeping the Israelites supplied with bread, and even meat which was quail that covered the ground in the evening. Moses made this announcement to all these grumblers, “And in the morning you will see the glory of the Lord, because he has heard your grumbling against him. Who are we that you should grumble against us? You will know that it was the Lord when he gives you meat to eat in the evening and all the bread you want in the morning because he has heard your grumbling against him. Who are we? You are not grumbling against us, but against the Lord. ” Exodus 16: 7-8
God gave bread and meat every day so that the grumbling Israelites would know that he would provide everything they needed. He would take care of his chosen people because he loved them despite their grumbling. He wanted them to know who he was. He wanted them to stop their grumbling and trust him.
I wonder if it ever crosses the minds of the church grumblers that their grumbling may be against God? It may be that some of our difficult times when we don’t know what we are going to do are times that God wants us to come to him and ask him to provide what we need. It could be that he just wants us to show that we need to trust him and grow our faith. How often has grumbling helped? Does grumbling ever make us feel good?
The Israelites looked out into the desert and “There was the glory of God appearing in the cloud.” Maybe instead of grumbling we should look up and see the glory of God! God sent down that first batch of bread. It was like a wafer and tasted a bit like honey. The grumblers looked at it and they said, ”What is it?” No one knew what it was, nor did they know what it was called. So someone said, “Let’s call it manna”, which means ‘What is it’. Therefore, for forty years the Israelites ate “What is it?” I hear it tasted a lot like banana nut bread.
I thought about this when I was reading my Bible this morning. I was reading how God sent bread from heaven to feed the Israelites. Do you know why he sent bread to them every morning? He did it because they had been grumbling, angrily I might add, against Moses and Aaron. These ingrates were about ready to hang their two leaders. If you have ever been a pastor you probably understand how Moses and Aaron felt. But doesn’t it seem strange that God would, in a sense, reward the Israelites because of their grumbling? These crazy people were wishing that they had stayed in Egypt as slaves. They said, “At least we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but now you have brought us into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.” Does that sound familiar?
A pastor or some church leaders decide to make a change, or begin a new ministry, or add something new to some area of the church. Those who disagree grumble. The moment something goes wrong somebody begins to grumble. They start spreading the word, “That pastor is trying to ruin our church. He is going to drive people away. He’s out to get us. Why did we ever call him!” Grumble, grumble, grumble. I’ve worked with a lot of pastors in a lot of churches and I have never know a single one who was trying to destroy the church. The pastor is not the enemy. In my last church the person who grumbled the most never heard me preach once in the three and half years I was there. As soon as Sunday school was over she went home. That was the extent of her church participation, unless she came to a business meeting to attack somebody. Yet, she was upset with everything that was done.
Well God had a reason for keeping the Israelites supplied with bread, and even meat which was quail that covered the ground in the evening. Moses made this announcement to all these grumblers, “And in the morning you will see the glory of the Lord, because he has heard your grumbling against him. Who are we that you should grumble against us? You will know that it was the Lord when he gives you meat to eat in the evening and all the bread you want in the morning because he has heard your grumbling against him. Who are we? You are not grumbling against us, but against the Lord. ” Exodus 16: 7-8
God gave bread and meat every day so that the grumbling Israelites would know that he would provide everything they needed. He would take care of his chosen people because he loved them despite their grumbling. He wanted them to know who he was. He wanted them to stop their grumbling and trust him.
I wonder if it ever crosses the minds of the church grumblers that their grumbling may be against God? It may be that some of our difficult times when we don’t know what we are going to do are times that God wants us to come to him and ask him to provide what we need. It could be that he just wants us to show that we need to trust him and grow our faith. How often has grumbling helped? Does grumbling ever make us feel good?
The Israelites looked out into the desert and “There was the glory of God appearing in the cloud.” Maybe instead of grumbling we should look up and see the glory of God! God sent down that first batch of bread. It was like a wafer and tasted a bit like honey. The grumblers looked at it and they said, ”What is it?” No one knew what it was, nor did they know what it was called. So someone said, “Let’s call it manna”, which means ‘What is it’. Therefore, for forty years the Israelites ate “What is it?” I hear it tasted a lot like banana nut bread.
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