A DAD IS A SPECIAL BLESSING
A dad is a special blessing - so kind, so strong and wise,
The first to give encouragement the last to criticize -
A dad's the first to lend a hand, the last to turn away,
The one who always seems to know the perfect thing to say -
The special things about him are cherished more each year -
A dad is a special blessing, so wonderful and dear.
[from Sycamore Chapel Newsletter, June 17, 1990]

LOVE FOR CHRIST IS CONTAGIOUS

A farmer who had never been in a museum visited the almost unequalled British Museum. He stood transfixed and speechless before a great artist's concept of Christ on the cross. For a long time he stood with throbbing, aching heart as he recalled the majestic story of divine love that inspired the tragic scene before him.

No longer conscious of the crowd milling around him, as he viewed the broken figure on the cross he could think only of the real one who died for him and for the whole world. With deep emotion he muttered, "Bless Him! Oh, how I love him!" In the quietness of the museum, his words carried to others standing nearby. They stopped dead-still and silent. Finally a man stepped to the farmer's side and with sincere emotion said, "So do I love him, friend." Others joined the farmer, saying, "I love him too."

What if that earnest farmer had not almost unconsciously voiced his love for Christ? What a blessing all the others would have missed! The reminder opened the "love gates" of their hearts and lips. They were better for it. What glory Christ would have missed! Not only did the lips of the farmer reaffirm love for Christ, but his "confession" inspired others to express their love also.

It does not take much to glorify Christ. Just say from the heart, "How I love Him!" and others will be emboldened to say with their lips what they already hold silently in their hearts. Love and glory for Christ will be multiplied. Try it. You'll like it, because you will bless your friends and honor your Lord.
[by Howard Horton from The Visitor from Charlotte Avenue church of Christ, March 20, 1983]

We judge ourselves by what we are capable of doing; other judge us by what we have done.
[by Longfellow]

Busy persons are not busybodies.
[from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, 8 Apr. 1990]

Many people give the tenth - the tenth of what they ought to give.
[from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, 29 Apr. 1990]

When looking for faults, use a mirror not a telescope!
[from North Shore News, 18 February 1990]

Faith makes all things possible! Hope makes all things bright! Love makes all things easy!
[from North Shore News, 18 Mar. 1990]

WHICH WAY ARE YOU LOOKING?

Have you ever tried to drive your car down the road by looking only into the rear-vision mirror? Most of us are aware that such a foolish attempt would most likely end with our car wrecked. And yet it is just as unsafe and foolish to drive down the road without ever looking into that rear-vision mirror.

Paul talks of that look to the future and our "pressing on" and says that he had to forget what lay behind and "reach forward to what lies ahead" (Phili. 3:12-13). Certainly he had much to look back at as a successful apostle and preacher of God's Word. But he also realized that too much looking back would only detract from a successful journey.

In the same way we cannot live our lives successfully by looking into the past, be it good or bad. Rather we need an occasional glance back to gain information, a reference to aid our journey. But our concentration must be on the road in front, our journey into the future.

What is past is over and done with. If it was bad, then we can learn from it and do better. If the past was good, then we must still learn from it and continue to do well or even to do better. But we can never go back. All that we can accomplish by constantly looking back, is to wreck the future.

So which way are you looking?
[by Lester P. Bagley from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 29, 16 July, 1989]

Fear and faith cannot keep house together. When one enters, the other departs.
[from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 32, 6 Aug. 1989]

A PRAYER FOR EVERY DAY

Make me too brave to lie or be unkind.
Make me too understanding, too, to mind
the little hurts companions give, and friends,
the careless hurts that no one quite intends.
Make me too thoughtful to hurt others so.
Help me to know the inmost hearts of those for whom I care, their secret wishes, all the loads they bear,
that I may add my courage to their own.
May I make lonely folks feel less alone, and happy ones a little happier yet.
May I forget what ought to be forgotten; and recall unfailing,
all that ought to be recalled,
each kindly thing, forgetting what might sting.
To all upon my way, day after day, let me be joy, be hope! Let my life sing!
[by Mark Carolyn Davies from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 33, 13 Aug. 1989]

HOPE
(I Cor. 13:13; Heb. 11:1; I John 3:16; I John 4:16.)
What is hope? We've heard great lessons on faith and love, but when was the last time we talked about our hope? Maybe it's so obvious it's unnecessary. Yet it seems to me so often we get caught up in the means and forget the end. Can the trip be made more important than the destination? Faith, hope and love in a sense are one. They form a unity. So often in the New Testament they are linked together, and I'm not sure we need to separate them as much as we seem to. So back to the question, "What's hope!" Webster tells us hope is "feeling that what is wanted will happen" or perhaps a clearer definition "desire accompanied by expectation."

Expectation (hope), normally fuelled by promises, is only as valid as the promise and the promise only as good as the one who promised. Paul rightfully described the pagans as having no hope. Why? Because they were without God (Eph. 2:12 and I Thes. 4:13). (Rom. 4:18-24; Heb. 6:13-20). Peter calls it a living hope (I Pet. 1:3). Couldn't we say a hope to live for? What's the hope they're talking about? Jesus! Perhaps the song we sing says it much better than I could: "Our hope is built on nothing less that Jesus' blood and righteousness."

If it's true that it's the hope of reward that sweetens the labour, how much sweeter must our labour be considering our hope? Let our lives show it!

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love."
Let us consider each morning our hope and give thanks to our God.
[by Calvin McDonald from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 35, 27 Aug. 1989]

He stands best who kneels most.
[From North Shore News, Jan. 21, 1990]

God loves each one of us, as if there was only one of us.
[by Augustine from The Capital Letter, Wellington, vol. 19, no. 12, 25 Mar. 1990]

Take a Bible break. It gets you through the day better than a coffee break.
[from the Capital Letter, Wellington, vol. 19, no. 11, 28 Mar. 1990]

Faith is the soul's intake. Love is the soul's outlet.
[from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, Mar. 4, 1990]

An eminent naturalist believed in a Supreme Being but found it impossible to believe that the God who had created the wonders of the universe could be known by man. One day, as he was walking in his garden, he came upon an ant hill covered with swarms of ants that seemed greatly agitated as his shadow fell on them, "If only these ants knew how kindly I feel toward them," he thought, "they would not be disturbed by my presence." Following this line of thought, he found himself wondering if a man could ever communicate his thoughts to ants. "No," he decided, "that is impossible. For a human to teach an ant what he is like, and to convey to it his thoughts, he would have to become an ant." Then like a flame of lightning came this thought: "That's it exactly! The God of this universe, infinitely high as He is above us in His being and in His thoughts, had to become a man to teach men to know Him, and to know His thought."
[from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, Mar. 4, 1990]

Christians are not sinless, but they should sin less.
[from North Shore News, Jan. 28, 1990]

We are saved to serve, but we never serve to get saved!
[from North Shore news, Jan. 14, 1898] [Key concept: grace]

LET US TAKE TIME

To give God worship, service, and communion. To live with our friends while we have them. A coffin is a poor place for the warm handclasp and the cheery greeting. To forgive our enemies. Jesus found time to do it between the blows of the hammer. To go slower up hill when we are young, and down hill when we are old.
[from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 25, 25 June, 1990]

JUDGE GENTLY

Pray don't find fault with the man who limps, and stumbles along the road,
Unless you have warn the shoes he wears, or struggled beneath his load.
There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt, though hidden away from view,
Or the burdens he bears placed on your back might cause you to stumble too.
Don't sneer at the man who's down today, unless you have felt the flow
That caused his fall or felt the shame that only the fallen know.
You may be strong; but still the blows that were his, if dealt to you
In the self-same way at the self-same time, might cause you to stagger, too.
Don't be too harsh with the man that sins or pelt him with word or stone,
Unless you are sure, yea double sure that you have no sins of your own;
For you know, perhaps if the tempter's voice should whisper as soft to you
As it did to him when he went astray it might cause you to falter too.
[from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 25, 25 June, 1990]

HOW MATURE ARE YOU?

If you can see work which you've begun taken from you and given to another without feeling bitterness - that is maturity.
If you can listen to someone criticize you, even unkindly, and receive instruction from it without hard feelings - that is maturity.
If you can see a person do an act which is against your Christian standard and react without self-righteousness - that is maturity.
If you can see others chosen for a job which you were better qualified to do without feeling hurt - that is maturity.
If you can hear another person argue a point of view which is contrary to your own without a feeling of smugness - that is maturity.
If you can suffer nagging pain and hide your feelings for the sake of others - that is maturity.
If you can go out of your way to help another without feeling you are a pretty good person - that is maturity.
If you can see someone you know well deliberately snub you, and you can make allowances for his actions - this is maturity.
If you can crawl out of bed at an early hour to pray, simply because you realize that here lies your power with God - that is maturity.
If you can listen with your heart, your eyes and your ears, evaluate the other person's conversation with love and understanding, and go away without opening your mouth - that is maturity.
If you can be maligned, falsely accused, ridiculed publicly, and branded with the transgressors without growing bitter - you have at last reached true maturity.
Study the Beatitudes.
[by Richard Rogers from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 30, 23 July, 1989, p. 2]

INVITATION

If you come to God as a braggart comes
In the pride of your own way,
Then the God of grace will hide His face
And send you empty away.
If you come to God as a beggar comes
With the plea of your bitter need,
Then the King of kings will give good things
And make you rich indeed.
[from Tauranga Church of Christ, vol. 30, no. 34, 20 Aug. 1989]

All some people get out of life is to - hurry, worry, marry, and bury.
[from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, 14 March 1990]

Show me a thoroughly satisfied man, and I will show you a failure.
[by Thomas Edison from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, 6 May 1990]

A lot of money is tainted - 'taint yours, 'taint mine, but 'tis God's.
[from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, 6 May 1990]

THE PUSSYFOOTER

A preacher, anxious to be strong in his preaching without offending anyone said something like this: "If you do not repent, as it were, and be converted, in a measure; you will go to hell, to a certain extent."
[from Rotorua Weekly Reporter, 27 May 1990]

GREAT THINGS THE LORD HAS DONE FOR YOU
(Mark 5:18-19)
Great things

Jesus had just visited the country of the Gerasenes on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee and had healed a dishevelled and tormented man who approached him. The people from a nearby town heard about the dramatic circumstances of his healing and (Mark 5:15).

Naturally, the man wanted to accompany Jesus, but he was told to go tell his own people (Mark 5:19).

We may read of this incident and think that it was certainly a notable thing that Jesus had done for this man, and worthy of retelling wherever the man went. But it was the Lord of mercy who healed him and, as a result, gained a grateful and devoted disciple. It was not only a physical healing that the man had, but also a spiritual healing. He was no longer possessed and tormented by an unclean spirit, but he was now at peace, and "in his right mind", sitting at the feet of Jesus (Mark 5:15). Spiritual healing is far more important than physical healing (I Tim. 1:12-16), but he had to accept that his physical "thorn in the flesh" was not going to be healed (II Cor. 12:7-9).

Later, when Jesus sent out seventy of his followers to teach and heal people (Luke 10:1ff), they returned to him with joy because...(Luke 10:17). But Jesus told them (Luke 10:20).

Physical and spiritual healings

It was wonderful that Jesus miraculously and mercifully healed all people who came in contact with him of their physical disorders, but it is much more wonderful that Jesus heals all who come to him of their sins. Jesus quoted the prophet Isaiah on another occasion, regarding people who needed to hear and understand and turn again "and I should heal them" (Matt. 13:15). Of the same quote, Mark renders it "return again and be forgiven" (Mark 4:12).

Interestingly enough, the same New Testament Greek word "sozo" is applied to physical and to spiritual healings, and is commonly translated "save".

Thus, as examples of physical healing, Luke's account of the exorcism of the demon-possessed man (Luke 8:36) describes him as having been "healed" (KJV) or "made well" (NZSB) and, to the woman who touched the hem of his cloak, Jesus said, "your faith has made you well" ("sozo" - Luke 8:48).

As examples of its use with reference to spiritual healing, the same Greek word is found earlier in the same chapter (the parable of the sower - Luke 8:4-15) when "the devil comes and takes away the word from their heart, so that they may not believe and be saved" ("sozo" - verse 12). Jesus was given his name because "it is he who will save ("sozo") his people from their sins" (Matt. 1:21). The apostle Paul wrote that "Christ Jesus came into the world to save ("sozo") sinners" (I Tim. 1:15).

Both physical and spiritual meanings of "sozo" are found in Acts 4 where, following the healing of the lame man, the apostle Peter said, "this man has been made well" ("sozo" - Acts 4:9) and, later, to the Jewish rulers who questioned the apostles' action, Peter spoke of Jesus, in whose name alone "we must be saved" ("sozo" - Acts 4:12).

So while the remarkable physical healing of the demon-possessed man may be considered worthy of wide publication, how much more reason is there for all who have been spiritually healed to tell abroad "what great things the Lord has done" for them!

The works I do bear witness of me

Jesus and his apostles were able to demonstrate miraculous physical healings, and certain others in the early church were also able to heal the sick by special gift of the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 12:9, 28-30). But these and other special gifts of the Spirit have not been manifested since because, as foretold, they were "done away...when the perfect thing comes" (I Cor. 13:8-10). The "perfect (complete) thing" replaced "the partial"; that is, the complete New Testament written revelation which was "confirmed by the signs that accompanied it" (Mark 16:20). This confirmation has been recorded in the written and perfect word (John 20:30-31).

The main purpose of the physical healings and other miracles was to convince people that Jesus is the Son of God (Matt. 11:1-5; John 5:36; John 10:36-38). All we need to do is to accept the recorded testimony of the New Testament witnesses to those miracles.

He shall save his people from their sins

This promise of God is the meaning of the name of "Jesus" (Matt. 1:21). Through Jesus, God can heal us of our sins. God "desires all men to be saved ("sozo") and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (I Tim. 2:4). Strangely, to many people, this seems not to be a very big thing. Even many Christians may not be fully aware of what it means to be saved from their sins. Consider the import of the following Scripture...(Rom. 5:8-9).

Before his conversion, the apostle Paul was, "as to the righteousness which is in the Law, found blameless" (Phili. 3:6), yet he deeply appreciated his need for spiritual healing and highly valued the great things the Lord had done for him: (I Tim. 1:5). This awareness drove the apostle Paul to go and tell what great things the Lord had done: (I Cor. 9:16).

The Bible is full of examples of faithful men and women who learned to understand and appreciate what great things the Lord had done for them. Read of the men and women listed in Heb. 11 and note that drove them to tell abroad what the Lord had done for them. Consider Abraham, who obeyed and went out, not knowing where he was going, because (Heb. 11:10). Consider Moses, raised a prince in Pharaoh's palace, who considered (Heb. 11:26). Consider all the others listed. (Heb. 12:1-3).

The demon-possessed man (Mark 5:20). Are we telling others what great things the Lord has done for us?
[from Truth in Love 1990]

LIVING DAILY WITH JESUS: GOVERNMENT REFERENDUMS & ELECTIONS
Preliminary reading: Mark 12:13-17; Acts 19:30-41; Rom. 13:1-7; Titus 3:1; I Pet. 2:12-17
Situation: You are required to vote in a civil election.
Your reaction:
1. We get the government we deserve, so we should vote?
2. They're all the same. It doesn't matter who is elected. Why bother?
3. Governments are of the world, and we should have nothing to do with the world?
4. Governments are God's agents, so we should vote?
5. My vote wouldn't be missed. I don't know anything about the candidates?
6. They're all ambitious crooks, they won't get my vote?
7. We should be interested in civil affairs to try to improve things?
8. Other suggestions?
9. What would Jesus do? (Mark 12:17.)
[from Truth in Love 1990]

ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK: HANGED ON A TREE
The apostles proclaimed to the Jewish Council: (Acts 5:30).
The apostle Peter announced to the Roman centurion, Cornelius...(Acts 10:30).
Peter wrote in his first letter that Jesus (I Pet. 2:24).
The apostle Paul wrote that (Gal. 3:13 Quoted from Deut. 21:23).
The word "tree" in these references is translated from a Greek word which means, literally, "wood" or "timber". The cross on which Jesus was crucified was made from the wood of a tree.
Man killed Jesus by a cursed and shameful method, but God exalted him to be a Prince and a Saviour (Acts 5:31).
Jesus had promised that he must "be lifted up" (John 3:14-15; John 12:32). Through this means Jesus' followers are saved from their sins (Matt. 1:21; John 1:29; I Pet. 2:24), that they might have eternal life (Titus 3:3-7).
Jesus died on "the tree" in our place, so that we might have " the hope of salvation" (I Thes. 5:8).
(II Cor. 5:21).
As we partake of the Lord's Supper, let us remember his death on "a tree" and think upon what his sacrifice has meant for us. We look forward with great anticipation to the day when he will return to take us to that eternal home in heaven as he has promised. (Col. 3:4).
[from Truth in Love 1990]

LIVING DAILY WITH JESUS: SCIENCE AND THE BIBLE

Preliminary reading: Matt. 11:25-27; Matt. 13:11; Matt. 16:16-17; John 1:1-9; John 16:13-14; Rom. 1:19-23; I Cor. 1:17-26; I Cor. 2:6-16; Col. 1:26-27; Col. 2:8; I Tim. 6:20; James 3:17; I John 5:20
Situation: A young Christian student meets scorn - "Science has disproved the Bible!"
Your reaction:
(1) If you can't beat them, join them?
(2) How could highly intelligent scientists be wrong? Are all scientists sceptics?
(3) Are scientists more expert than non-scientists in all things?
(4) The Bible is not a science textbook?
(5) The Bible and science deal with different areas of knowledge, the one obtained by revelation and the other by observation?
(6) The achievements of science are not paralleled by improvements in human behavior?
(7) The Bible story of Creation is mythology?
(8) The resurrection story is mere legend?
(9) Jesus was just another prophet or philosopher? Like Socrates, the Buddha, Confucius or Mohammed?
(10) Other suggestions?
(I Cor. 1:21)
[from Truth in Love, no. 27, July 15, 1990]

THE BLOOD OF CHRIST
(Heb. 9:28)
For atonement (Rom. 3:25)
For forgiveness (Matt. 26:28)
For justification (Rom. 5:9)
For redemption (Eph. 1:7)
For reconciliation (Col. 1:19-20)
For sanctification (Heb. 13:12)
For continual cleansing (I John 1:7)
For freedom (Rev. 1:5)
For thanksgiving (I Cor. 10:16)
For eternal life (John 6:54)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 26, July 8, 1990, p. 6]

LIVING DAILY WITH JESUS: THE CHRISTIAN AND DRESS

Preliminary reading: Matt. 7:1-5; Matt. 15:1-20; Matt. 22:1-14; Rom. 14:13-23; I Cor. 8:1-13; I Tim. 2:9-10; I Tim. 4:12; James 2:1-4; I Pet. 3:1-4
Situation: A church member comes to services wearing grubby work or leisure clothing.
Your reaction:
(1) It's the heart that counts, not the outward appearance?
(2) Cleanliness is next to godliness?
(3) Some people would condemn the apostle Peter for smelling of fish?
(4) Unsuitable dress shows lack of respect and reverence for God?
(5) It's better to come as you are, than not to come at all?
(6) We should set a good example to others?
(7) Perhaps it's all he has to wear?
(8) Maybe, but does it have to be grubby?
(9) What would visitors think? Does it matter?
(10) Other suggestions.
(James 2:2-4.)
[from Truth in Love, no. 26, July 8, 1990, p. 7]

AN ATONING SACRIFICE
(I John 4:10)
God's requirement of "an atoning sacrifice for our sins" is a difficult concept for many people. While it is not possible for us to understand the full meaning of the atonement, it is an important fact of the Bible message.

Some people wonder how a loving God could condemn anyone to eternal damnation (Matt. 25:46). Some think the God of the Old Testament was angry and vindictive, while Jesus was "meek and mild". These are misconceptions of the Old Testament in which God is also depicted as great in compassion and loving-kindness (Psa. 103:8), and of Jesus, who speaks of himself as our future judge who will cast the unrighteous into the "fiery furnace" (Matt. 13:41-42).
(I John 1:5); while, at the same time...(I John 4:8).

GOD IS LIGHT

Since God is "light", his glory, holiness and righteousness cannot tolerate or permit evil and darkness in his presence.
(John 3:19; Rom. 3:23; Isa. 59:2)
Thus there is no hope for man to come into God's presence by his own efforts. It is impossible for God, who is light, to tolerate darkness. Light and darkness cannot co-exist. Darkness is therefore condemned forever. "The wages (or consequences) of sin is (eternal) death" (Rom. 6:23). God can only punish evil and evildoers (John 3:36).

GOD IS LOVE

However, God has provided a way of salvation for man, so that we may be reconciled to him from whom our sins separate us. (Rom. 5:8-9.)

THE ATONING SACRIFICE OF JESUS

So, while God's holiness cannot countenance men's darkness, his great love - through the "atoning sacrifice" of his Son - made it possible for us to be justified (or made right before God) and to be saved from his wrath. It is clear that no goodness or merit on our part achieves this saved state. It was the shedding of Christ's blood on the cross that has made it possible. (Col. 1:19-20; Eph. 2:8-9)

SAVED BY GOD'S GRACE THROUGH OUR FAITH

We are saved by God's grace through our faith. (Rom. 10:17; Col. 2:12-13, Col. 3:1; Gal. 3:26-27.) "Clothed with Christ", we can stand in the presence of God. (II Cor. 5:21.)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 26, June 8, 1990, p. 10]

Have a check-up from the neck-up to get rid of stinking thinking and correct bad attitudes.

It is attitude, not aptitude, that determines your altitude.

Depend on it - God's work done in God's way, will never lack God's supplies.
[from Capital newsletter, Wellington, 1990]

We should be a PUZZLE to the outsider, a TERROR to the devil, a JOY to Him who bought us with His precious blood.
[from Capital newsletter, Wellington 1990]

Our words may hide our thoughts but our actions will reveal them.
[from North Shore News 1990]

Lord, help me remember that every morning is a new beginning, and that nothing can happen to me today that you and I can't handle together.
[from Capital newsletter, Wellington 1990]

Only one life, 'twill soon be past,
Only what's done for Christ will last.
[from Capital newsletter, Wellington 1990]

I am the Bible, God's wonderful library. I am always - and above all - the truth. To the weary pilgrim, I am a strong staff. To the one who sits in darkness, I am glorious light. To those who stumble beneath heavy burdens, I am sweet rest. To him who has lost his way, I am a safe guide. To those who are sick in sin, I am healing strength and forgiveness. To the discouraged, I am a glad message of hope. To those who are distressed and tossed about by the storms of life, I am an anchor, sure and steady. To those who search for salvation, I reveal the Savior of the World. I am the Bible, God's holy Word.

The person with the word but with no spirit will dry up, the person with the spirit but with no word will blow up, the person with the word and the spirit in balance will grow up.

Patience is a virtue that carries a lot of wait.

SHOWS IN YOUR FACE
You don't have to tell how you live each day,
You don't have to say if you work or play;
A tried, true barometer serves in the place,
However you live, it will show in your face.
The faults, the deceit, that you bear in your heart
Will not stay inside where it first got the start;
For sinew and blood are a thin veil of lace,
What you wear in your heart, you wear in your face.
If your life is unselfish, if for others you live,
For not what you get, but how much you can give;
If you live close to God in His infinite Grace,
You don't have to tell it, it shows in your face.
[from Gospel Teachers Publications, Inc., 1969]

COPING WITH SUCCESS

"Coping with success?! Now that's a problem I'd like to have!"

When burdens are heavy; when bills are bigger than paychecks; when the foundations of life crumble, we look for a way of escape. Surely the next promotion, the next salary increase, will ease our trials.

Those fortunate people who "have it made" surely are free from the burdens the rest of us carry. "Coping with success has got to be easier than what I have now."

Life is built on accomplishment. We strive to reach the top of the ladder. We are often surprised to find that the rungs at the top of the ladder are as unstable as those at the bottom. We may not be prepared to handle the problems which come with success.

The problems of success

Loss of awareness of God. As we rise in importance in our occupations, our feelings of self-importance rise as well. Accomplishments can feed the ego until it achieves total independence. "I'm a self-made man."

But self-made individuals are drifting away from the real self Maker. God's plan can be pushed aside by man's. The power of eternity can be usurped by the power of budgets and business.

Loss of closeness with family and friends. Success means more responsibility. Important phone calls come at meal time. An evening at home with the family is usurped by an appointment with an important client.

As the popular song by Harry Chapin says: A child arrived just the other day
He came to the world in the usual way but there were planes to catch and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away.

Loss of time. More work - less time. Responsibilities eat into our time. Even when work is done, we find ourselves worrying about the next decision.

We are trapped; we have become enslaved to our job.

Are there any answers?

Success does not come easily. There are prices to pay. However, there are ways to prevent the "Success Syndromes" listed above.

Remember your creator. "You shall remember the Lord your God..." (Deut. 8:18). Power isn't found in wealth or achievement. Power - real power - comes from a meaningful relationship with God.

Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the greatness and majesty of God.

Remember your loves ones. (II John 12). When we allow careers to replace family and friends, our lives are robbed and we, ourselves, are the thieves.

Man was not meant to be alone. Don't look for breaks in your schedule to be with loved ones - make them. Keep in touch with friends by cards, letters and phone calls. Don't keep "I love you" a secret.

Remember your roots. The writer of Hebrews instructed his readers to "recall the former days" (Heb. 10:32). Remembering our roots is important both in the faith and in the flesh.

No man can have a false sense of importance who recalls the struggles and failures of days gone by. I keep a "failure file" in my desk. It contains dozens of my failures - rejection slips from publishers, "we're not interested" letters from would-be employers, and other souvenirs of mistakes and failures.

We learn from failure - not only how to succeed, but also that we are human. We make mistakes. If I get too proud of my accomplishments, a look in the "failure file" brings me back to earth.

Remember yourself. There are billions of people on earth, but there is only one you. You are unique. You are special.

God loves you, not because of your successes, but in spite of your failures. Being such a unique recipient of God's love makes you too valuable to fool yourself with false feelings of grandeur.

You need God, you need other people, you need yourself. We all need to spend some time alone, apart from careers, to learn to love and accept ourselves. A healthy self-concept does not feel too big or too small. No one else can live your life to God's glory.

Success means different things to different people. It may be measured by income, job titles, responsibility or fame.

Whatever the measuring stick, worldly success is fleeting. There was a man who never gained wealth or the respect of the business world of his day, but at the end of his life he said, "I have overcome the world."

He was no stranger to success. Don't let him be a stranger to you.
[from Pete Nash from 20th Century Christian in January 1988]

PURPOSE OF COMMUNION

One of the purposes of gathering to partake of the Lord's supper is to remember him. We can think of the compassion he felt for lost mankind - so great a compassion that he came into the world to save sinners (I Tim. 1:15). We can think of his commandments which enable us to obtain salvation through faith and obedience (Heb. 5:9).

Christ's compassion
When Christ (Matt. 9:36). Christ has compassion on all who are weary and heavy-laden in spirit (Matt. 11:28-30).

Christ's commandments
While the Lord has compassion toward us, yet he desires us to obey him. He has given us commands by which we are saved and commands by which we are to continue in him. The responsibility is ours to continue in the Lord's word and so be his disciples indeed (John 8:31). He wants to present us holy in God's sight, "if you continue in your faith" (Col. 1:22-23).

Christ's commission
We have seen Christ's great commission, we have heard his commands to us, so let us eagerly carry out his commission to (Mark 16:15-16). Thus, in remembering the Lord while gathered round his table, let us give thanks for his compassion, continue in his commands and perform his commission.
[from The Truth in Love]

THE IDEAL AUDIENCE
(Acts 10:33)
We are all here:
we must be eager (Luke 8:15)
we must be attentive (Acts 17:11)
Present before God:
We must be Christ-conscious (Matt. 18:20)
We must be Christ-centered (Luke 14:26)
To hear:
We must heed whom we hear (Matt. 17:5)
We must heed what we hear (Matt. 15:9)
We must heed now we hear (Matt. 7:21-23)
All that God has commanded:
All Christ has commanded (Matt. 28:20)
All the counsel of God (Acts 20:27)
All the Lord commanded (Gen. 7:5)
All at God's word (I Kings 18:36)
God's commands for salvation:
All-inclusive, non-exclusive (Acts 10:34)
Believe in Christ (Acts 10:43)
Repent (turn to God) (Acts 11:18)
Be baptised (Acts 10:48).
[from The Truth in Love]

WALK BY THE SPIRIT: ENVY AND SELFISHNESS
(Gal. 5:16-17)
The deeds of the flesh, (Gal. 5:19-21; Phili. 2:3)
Walk by the spirit (Gal. 5:24-25)

Explanation. The word "envy" is translated from the New Testament Greek word "phthonos", as in Mark 15:10 where we are informed that Jesus had been delivered up by the chief priests "because of envy". The priests disliked Jesus' popularity and had said: (John 11:47-53). Another Greek word "zelos" is translated "jealousy" and, in this study of the deeds of the flesh, it is similar in meaning to envy. One word may have several meanings and different words may indicate different shades of the same meaning. Thus there is a good meaning of the word jealousy in the sense, for example, where it describes God's response to Israel's idolatry (Psa. 78:58; Exo. 20:4-5), and where Paul writes to the church at Corinth, (II Cor. 11:2). In this good meaning of the word it conveys the sense of deep concern. It is important to differentiate the meanings of this word and, again, it is stressed that we are considering only the bad meaning in this lesson.

The word "selfishness" is translated from the Greek word "erithia" (may be translated "strife"), and is usually associated with "envying" e.g. II Cor. 12:20, James 3:14-16. It is contrasted with humility, self-effacement and unselfishness in Phili. 2:3-4.

Bible examples of envy and selfishness

1.	The attitude of the patriarchs to Joseph (Gen. 37:3-11)
2.	The attitude of some Israelites to Moses (Psa. 106:16, Num. 16:3)
3.	The attitude of some Jews to the apostles (Acts 5:17-18; Acts 13:45; Acts 17:5)
4.	The attitude of the unrighteous (Rom. 1:29, Titus 3:3)
5.	The attitude of some Christians
	a.	Ambitious Christians (Phili. 1:15-17)
	b.	Immature Christians (I Cor. 3:3)
	c.	Impenitent Christians (II Cor. 12:20)
	d.	Disputing Christians (I Tim. 6:3-4)
	e.	Covetous Christians (James 4:1-2)

Overcoming envy and selfishness

The negative qualities of envy and selfishness have been exemplified from instances recorded in the Bible. God also commands us to put aside and grow out of such behaviour and replace them with the positive fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives (Gal. 5:22-25).
(Psa. 37)
In the New Testament examples of deeds of the flesh given, there are contrasted approved forms of behaviour for Christians to cultivate in themselves: Rom. 2:7-8, Rom. 13:13-14, Phili. 2:3-4, Titus 3:2-3, James 3:16-17, I Pet. 2:1-2.
[from The Truth in Love]

WHAT IS THE LAYING ON OF HANDS?
In the New Testament, the "laying on of hands" from the Greek words "epitithemi" and "epithesis" is associated with several specific purposes:
1. To heal the sick:
healed by Jesus (Mark 6:5; Luke 4:40; Luke 13:13; Mark 7:31-37)
healed by believers (Acts 9:12-18; Acts 28:7-9; Mark 16:17-18)
2. To bless children: blessed by Jesus (Matt. 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16)
3. to set apart for special work:
The Jerusalem church chose 7 men to assist in apostles (Acts 6:1-6)
The Antioch church sent Barnabas and Saul to do the Lord's work (Acts 13:1-3)
The Ephesian church (elders and Paul) - where Timothy worked as an evangelist (I Tim. 1:3; I Tim. 4:14; II Tim. 1:6; II Tim. 4:5)
4. To impart miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit: the apostles imparted gifts to selected brethren (Acts 8:14-19; Acts 19:1-7)

Comments
Jesus baptised his apostles in the Holy Spirit as promised (Matt. 3:11; Acts 1:1-8; Acts 2:4). The apostles were enabled to impart miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit to such brethren as they laid their hands on for the purpose. The apostles and these selected brethren were able to administer their gifts, including healing, as (Mark 16:20). There is no New Testament promise to or example of anyone, other than the apostles, being able to impart miraculous gifts of the Spirit to others. With the passing of the apostles, these special gifts could no longer be imparted by the laying on of their hands. The New Testament record of their signs confirms the Lord's word which they were commissioned to tell.
[from The Truth in Love]

THE WILL OF GOD
Precepts:
Learn it (Eph. 5:17),
Live it (I Pet. 4:2),
Love it (Col. 4:12)
Promises:
He saves us (Gal. 1:3-4),
He adopts us (John 1:12-13),
He hears us (I John 5:14)
Provisions:
Believe him (John 6:40),
Obey him (Matt. 7:21),
Follow him (Eph. 5:15-17)
[from The Truth in Love]

BECOMING LIKE CHRIST
(James 1:21-25)
With this passage we can memorise all the do's and don'ts and take it as a list of things to do or not to do, this is the wrong view and approach to this passage. We would then become as Jews with a legal document. These words need to be internalised and contemplated so we, as Christians, become conformed to the image of Christ. We do this because this is what Christ did, and we do this because of love, we as Christians, love him.

We need to apply all scripture here practically.

As we forget what we look like, we forget what we read in God's word, unless we keep looking at, and using it, regularly.

The perfect law is complete, mature well rounded. This law will allow us to be grown up, like Christ, well rounded beings see Eph. 4:1ff. The progress of revelation of the word was so that the church would grow up. So they would not be tossed about by varied doctrines, but be well rounded people.

The opposite of perfect is imbalanced, it is easier to become extreme than balanced in ones approach to the word. It requires precision to balance things.

Our whole life can be regarded as spiritual work, just because you are spending time raising a family, this is God's desire too.

We can over emphasise one aspect, e.g. evangelism, but we must have the balance and be working to be in the image of Christ ourselves, also.

We are Christians all the time. We are not to take on the role of a soul winner, and then slip out of it. What will catch the world's attention is loving one another, and being united. While doctrine is fundamentally important, the world is not going to be attracted to us by this, they will be attracted by a consistent balanced life.

God's word wants us to be well rounded in spiritual things. Biblical things will have priority over man made things. Methods are man made. God has given us a balanced system of belief, look at this approach before our methods.

Aim at our whole life becoming Christ like.
[by Edwin Jones from The Capital letter, Wellington]

What sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity.
[from The Capital Letter, Wellington, vol. 19, no. 20, 20 May 1990]

What you possess in this world will go to someone else when you die, but what you are will be yours forever.
[from The Capital Letter, Wellington, vol. 19, no. 22, 3 June 1990]

THE CHRISTIAN FAMILY
Planted together in good soil,
Nourished by the Creator Himself.
Growing upward toward the Source,
Spreading a cover for those below.
Sometimes bent by the rains,
Sometimes twisted by the storms,
But always growing,
Growing together - growing upward.
[from The Capital Letter, Wellington, vol. 19, no. 21, 27 May 1990]

Signs: in an allergy ward of hospital "Wheeze be seated."
in a poultry unit of a farm "May they roost in peace."
in a home builders supply store "Planks to you, we're lumber one."

An old sceptic said, "I'll give you a dollar if you'll tell me where God is." The young believer answered, "I'll give you two dollars if you'll tell me where God isn't."

Some ideas sound good but not all are good sound ideas.

THINGS YOU NEVER REGRET:
showing kindness to an aged person
destroying the letter written in anger
offering the apology that saves a friendship
stopping a scandal that is wrecking a reputation
helping a boy to find himself
taking time to show consideration to your parents
remembering God in all things.

Duty makes us do things well, but love makes us do things beautifully.
[from bulletin of the Church of Christ, Savannah, Ga.]

SNOWBALL KINDNESS

"How can I ever repay you?" asked a person of a friend who had done him a favor. "I shall forever be indebted to you for your kindness."

"Not necessarily," answered the friend. "If you really want to repay me, keep your eye open for somebody who needs help as badly as you did, and help him. If you are willing to do this, I shall be fully repaid for I shall enjoy the warm feeling that someday through you, I shall have helped a fellow I didn't even know. I shall call this idea, 'Snowball kindness'."
[by Benjamin Franklin via Lakeworth, Fla. from bulletin of the Church of Christ, Savannah, Ga.]

The Bible is like a compass - it always points the believer in the right direction.
[from bulletin of Church of Christ, Savannah, Ga.]

Do you let Satan use you to thwart the cause of Christ in your church through criticism, gossip, nonsupport.
[from bulletin of Church of Christ, Savannah, Ga.]

It is better to give others a piece of your heart than a piece of your mind.
[from bulletin of Church of Christ, Savannah, Ga.]

The quickest way to get the church on its feet, is to get it on its knees. The church won't be on the go unless you are! God puts the church in the world; Satan puts the world into the church. The last refuge of the guilty person is to take shelter under an excuse.
[from bulletin of Church of Christ, Savannah, Ga.]

Did the storm last night cause you to appreciate the calm today? A true parallel to our spiritual struggles on earth, while the calm of heaven awaits. After Sunday worship and study, don't you feel so much better equipped to meet the challenges and struggles of life during the week?
[from Capital letter, Wellington]

She lacked confidence in herself, Lord. She found life hard. She was afraid to go out of the house by herself. She was afraid of the world outside the security of her four walls. She no longer met her son from school. Her husband did the shopping on his way from work, and took her along every fortnight at first to meet the psychiatrist at her outpatient clinic. It was strange, Lord, how this woman's world closed in on her. She had abilities. She had talents. She had been a secretary before she married. Her talents had atrophied. Even those she had disappeared. It would not be fair to blame her for her loss of nerve. But what abilities she had were slowing being lost.

This seems to be true of life, Lord. One man has a gift of insight. As he uses it, it develops and grows. If he refuses to use it, he becomes as unable to see to the heart of a matter as if he were blind. Another man has a gift of listening. He can get alongside a person and give confidence and strength as he listens. His talent grows and his wisdom increases. Only he becomes garrulous, the gift is gone. Yet another has a gift of speaking. He helps men understand the issues in a problem, and with use his gift matures. Let him speak, or he might as well be dumb. Help me, Lord, to see what talents I have. Let me not think that I have what I have not, nor that I have not what I have. Support me as I use them.
[from The Acts of Parkers Rd. Newsletter of the Church of Christ, Nelson, September, 1984]

Smith was sitting on his roof during a flood and the water was up to his feet. Before long a fellow in a canoe paddled by and shouted, "Can I give you a lift to higher ground?"

"No thanks," replied Smith, "I have faith in the Lord, and He will save me!"

Soon the water rose to Smith's waist. At this point a motor boat pulled up, and someone called out, "Can I give you a lift to higher ground?"

"No thanks. I have faith in the Lord, and He will save me!"

Later, a helicopter flew by and Smith was standing on the roof with water up to his neck. "Grab the rope!" yelled the pilot, "I'll pull you up!"

"No thanks," cried Smith, "I have faith in the Lord, and He will save me!"

After hours of treading water poor, exhausted Smith drowned and went to his reward. As he arrived at the Pearly Gate, Smith met his Maker and complained about the turn of events. "Tell me, Lord," he said, "I had such faith in You to save me, and You left me to drown. What happened?"

The Lord replied, "What do you want from me? I sent two boats and a helicopter!"
[from Reader's Digest]

THE MINISTER'S WIFE

A minister's wife is like a rare jewel. She is beheld and appreciated in a different way by everyone with whom she comes in contact. The congregation perceives many facets of her personality; her husband recognizes many facets of her heart; God observes many facets of her soul; and she comprehends many facets of her whole being.

Each member perceives her in a variety of ways. One regards only a title, "the minister's wife", and keeps her distance. Another discovers a ready source of comfort and encouragement when distress strikes. Still another observes a willing partner when an emergency arises. Yet another discerns a competent teacher or speaker on a half hours notice. They all perceive a constant heart of love, hand of friendship, and ear of compassion.

Her husband recognizes and appreciates her heart in many shades. He discerns her heart constantly. He discerns her heart breaking when she accepts another's grief as her own. He regards her heart groping for faith when she is hurt or bewildered. He discovers her heart bursting with passion when he touches her. He observes her heart bursting with happiness when he has been honored either publicly or privately. He perceives her heart throbbing with tenderness and encouragement when he is disappointed and discouraged. He comprehends her heart's many shades, from a siren to a pillar of comfort, but he knows this heart is constantly over-flowing with love for him and the God they both serve.

God observes and comprehends the minister's wife in many tones of faith. Only He is allowed to observe her innermost being. He discerns her fears and struggles when she is faced with unjust criticism towards herself, her husband, her children, or all. He regards her hopes and dreams that she can't share with anyone. He perceives her joy when another soul becomes a Christian. He discerns her devotion to her husband and family. He discovers her faith and dedication to the Christian life she has chosen. He recognizes her soul at peace and content with being a Christian wife. He hears and answers her prayers.

She realizes she is seen in many different ways by many people and knows she is many things to these people. She can continue to be these different things only when she comprehends and understands herself - her limits, her capabilities, her dreams, her hopes, her fears, and her heartaches - and with God's help, fuse these different facets of her being into a radiant blend of love and peace. The beautiful sparkle of happiness and productivity tells the whole world that she is a woman truly blessed. She is a minister's wife.
[by Madene Walker from the Firm Foundation]

IT'S UP TO YOU

You are the fellow who has to decide,
Whether you'll do it or toss it aside.
You are the fellow who makes up your mind,
Whether you'll lead or linger behind.
Whether you'll strive for the goal that's far,
Or just be content to stay where you are.
Take it, or leave it, where's something to do
Just think it over (put your name here) It's up to you.
[from the Capital Letter, Wellington]

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Praise to the elders for wisdom, praise to the wives for endurance.

Do we sometimes take our seventh rib for granted? They make the teas, prepare the food, set the scenes for our friends to enjoy and we prepare our sermons or prayers to give instruction on being Christ-like.

Yet, are they practising our preaching without us noticing? Could they be more Christ-like than us?

"I hope not." For if we are out in the world teaching the wolves the glory of God yet our women do not set the example at home, does our preaching not become in vain?

Yes, men of the world, we are the breadwinner. We are the head of the house. We, and only we, have the privilege of speaking in church. Does that make our women our servants just as we are servants of the Lord! "I hope not."

Spare a thought then when the beds are not made. Spare a thought when the dishes are high. Spare a thought after we've said our prayers.

As they say, "behind every great man is a woman". Glory to God, what would we do without them.

Without them we would not be here. Were they not God's last creation?

God certainly thought of everything, didn't he.
[by Bobby Drew from Christchurch bulletin]

RAJNEESH SPEAKS: "CHRISTIANITY HAS FAILED"

Maybe you have seen his picture in national newsmagazines or in the newspaper. He has offered to solve the problems of all the governments of the world. (I'd like to see him solve the national debt - without breaking all of us!) Perhaps you read about his followers visiting Nashville a few weeks back and offering "street people" a home, free food, and unlimited sex. He is Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh.

Rejneesh ordinarily observes a policy of public silence, leaving all statements to underlings, lawyers, and accountants. Last Thursday, however, he broke with that practice to make the following pronouncement: "...[Rejneeshism] is the only religion. Christianity has failed. I say to you this is the first religion and perhaps the last religion."

As I read his pronouncement in the newspaper, my first reaction was to dismiss it and move on to the sports section. But I decided it just might deserve a few minutes of reflection.

"Christianity has failed." Is that true? What could lead anyone to make such a statement?

In Ireland, terrorist bombings take place and isolated individuals are brutally murdered - in ongoing hostilities between Catholic and Protestant "Christians."

A South African black man just won the 1984 Nobel Peace Prize. Although he is a bishop in the Anglican Church, the white "Christian" establishment of his home country will not acknowledge him because of its apartheid policies.

In the "Christian" United States of America, hundreds of abortions are performed daily, churches finance their charities with gambling operations, and evangelists make their three-minute appeals for souls to be saved at the conclusion of their 27-minute pleas for money.

Rajneesh, I think I can understand where you're coming from! It isn't unthinkable that someone who knows as little about the Christian religion as you do could think what you do about it. By identifying Christianity with the things that are presently flying under its colors, I suppose anyone would make the same judgment of its utter failure as you have.

Those of us who are as fed up with the hypocrisies, inconsistencies, and falseness of what sometimes passes as Christianity would reply to the Indian guru by saying, "What you have seen and rejected isn't really Christianity."

On the other hand, a better reply would be one made not just with words but with actions. We must demonstrate the religion of Jesus Christ in the real world to show that it works - not so much for the Rajneesh as for our neighbors and children.
[by Rubel Shelly from The Ashwood leaves]

HE WALKED AMONG THE PEOPLE

In a fascinating article in the October 1984 NASHVILLE! magazine, Ken Renner deals with the image of political candidates and makes candid observations about the characteristics that appeal to Tennessee voters with the conclusion that the wrapper may be more significant than the content of the package.

In 1974 a young lawyer ran for governor of Tennessee. He was articulate, attractive, squeaky clean, and his campaign was amply financed with good media presentation. A private plane whisked him from town to town for speeches where he appeared conservatively attired in a traditional business suit. He lost!

In 1978 a successful image campaign, under the direction of a Washington consultant, resulted in the election of the same candidate to the governor's chair. With an acquired popularity and momentum, he was propelled to re-election in 1982 with ease. The person in question is, of course, Gov. Lamar Alexander.

What made the difference in the two campaigns? In the second one, he walked among the people all over the state in a folksy plaid shirt. What originated as a clever ploy to attract people (and votes) resulted in more subtle changes which were not planned or anticipated.

Renner writes: "Alexander suddenly became a common man who talked with country store owners, rubbed elbows with dirt farmers and shared the dreams and aspirations of young people struggling to make a living for their families. Some of those qualities were always present in the earnest young man from Maryville, waiting only for the right vehicle to communicate them to Tennesseans. Some of them, close aids confide, were developed only on the walk, when Alexander's experiences made him acquire many of the qualities he was trying to project."

Sound familiar? Do you remember Jeff Hartline's three marks of discipleship in his recent fine lesson? One of his points was that the gospel must be shown to others in day-to-day contact as we literally walk with them. The process not only changes others but, as a consequence, changes us as well. We grow, become more compassionate, and learn to meed needs in others' lives.

People really don't care very much about what we know until they know how much we care.
[by Dallas Wiseman from The Ashwood leaves]

BABY FAE AND ETHICAL QUANDERIES

Baby Fae was born with hypoplastic left-heart syndrome. It is a fatal condition which affects one in 12,000 infants. The left side of the heart (i.e., the left ventricle) is located in the defective area, newborns generally die within two weeks of birth. Such infants are prime candidates for heart transplants, yet infant hearts are only rarely available.

The walnut-size heart of a seven-month-old female baboon, the animal which has been the best tissue match for the baby girl, was removed and transplanted into Baby Fae's tiny chest by Dr. Leonard Bailey of Loma Linda (California) Hospital. The surgery is experimental and will likely be followed by the transplant of a human heart when one is available for her.

The case set off a furor. Members of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals picketed the hospital. Some called the case one of "ghoulish tinkering." Others protested that mixing human and animal proteins is "bad science" which should be forbidden.

True to form for pragmatic Americans, the protests began to fade as Baby Fae gained weight and seemed to be tolerating the procedure well. In all likelihood, they would have gained steam if she had died within 48 hours of the initial surgery.

In the creation story of Genesis, God gave man the right to "rule over" the entire lower creation for human benefit and to divine glory. The race made in God's image has been granted the right to use animals for purposes ranging from beast of burden to food. On the other hand, pointless destruction of animals has been protested in both Jewish and Christian traditions.

From the creationist perspective, one can be thankful that God created all living things according to a general plan and with structural similarities. The divine authorization to employ animals for the good of humankind would seem to be all the authorization necessary to remove a Christian's apprehensions concerning the use of animals in medical procedures for humans.

Rodents and guinea pigs have been used to test hundreds of drugs and vaccines. Research on dogs led to the discovery of the cause of diabetes. Rabbits were used to purify and test insulin, and the pancreases of pigs and cows were the source of insulin for diabetics until only recently. Key discoveries dealing with heart, lung, and kidney disease have come from animal research.

Animals have provided valves for implantation into human beings for a number of years. An animal dies so a human can live. Are we now to react to the use of an entire animal heart by telling the medical establishment to stop it?

Better the use of occasional hearts for treatment of cases like Baby Fae than leather-soled shoes, fur coats, or a quarter-pound hamburger. If our society generally accepts the latter, how dare we protest the former as unethical?
[by Rubel Shelly from The Ashwood leaves]

Look up and follow Jesus. Look out to help others.

Once there was a man who had acres and acres of wheat which was ready to be harvested. He purchased the finest harvesting machine available and gave the highest price ever paid, because he wanted the crop harvested. He hired four men to harvest the crop.

The men decided that, before they began harvesting the crop they should build a barn for the machine. Since the machine was the finest, the barn should be the finest. It should have carpet on the floor, cushions on the seats, and it should be air-conditioned.

Now the barn was built, and it was time to begin the harvest. The four men voted to see what jobs they wanted. One wanted to be chairman of the barn committee. After all, if the barn deteriorated and the harvesting machine was rained on, the machine would rust and there would be no harvest, so this man would be in charge of the barn.

Another said, "I'll be in charge of keeping the machine cleaned and polished. This is the finest machine in the world, and it should look like it. I will wash and polish it weekly."

The third man said he was mechanically gifted. He indicated he would be able to service the machine and keep it running. He was willing to oil and lubricate the machine; so he would be in charge of mechanics.

The fourth man said, "I shall be in charge of overseeing this operation. We have four men working here. We need someone to make sure they don't overlap each other's area of responsibility. I will coordinate all the activities going on around this barn."

One day the boss returned. The machine was not in the barn. The mechanic had taken it out for a test run. The cleaner and polisher was riding with him to make sure he didn't get the machine dirty. The barn keeper was working on the air-conditioning thermostat. The supervisor was working out a work schedule for the men.

The wheat was rotting in the field.

Jesus said, "Do not say, 'There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest.' Behold I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest."
[by Larry Wishard from the Capital letter, Wellington]

A problem not worth praying about, is not worth worrying about.
[from the Capital letter, Wellington]

If we knew whose feet were standing
Close beside the silent stream;
If we knew whose eyes were closing
In the sleep that knows no dream;
We should be so kind and tender,
Lightly judge, and gently speak!
Let us act as if our vision
Saw the links that swiftly break.
[from Greerton bulletin]

God's word: It still instructs..it still convicts..it still converts..it can save your soul!
[from the Capital letter, Wellington]

A PROMISE

Once a young man was about to leave home to begin his freshman year in college. Since the college was some distance from his home he asked his father for a car. His dad said that he would think about it and then he told his son he had a proposition to make him. He then handed the son a Bible and said, "If you will read this Bible while you are away in college, I'll give you a car."

The son left for college and by Christmas vacation he had not received the car. He asked his dad, and his dad replied that he would keep his promise. By the end of the school year he still didn't have the car, so he approached his father again. His reply was, "don't worry about it, I'll keep my promise."

This went on and on at each vacation and at the end of the semesters. Finally, the boy graduated. Everyone was congratulating him on this joyous occasion, but the son was still worried about the car his father had promised and that he'd never received. It rested very heavily on his mind and he finally approached his father and expressed his concern. "Dad," he said, "why didn't you keep your promise to me to give me a car while in college?"

"Well, son, do you remember our bargain? I kept mine. You'll find a check for the car filed under 'Genesis' in the Bible I gave you on the first day you left home."
[from The Capital Letter, Wellington]

If you are not doing something with your life, it doesn't matter how long it is.

Whatever your lot in life - be sure to build something on it.

The road to hell is paved with good intentions!

ARE WE READY?

1. "Lord, I am ready to go with you" (Luke 22:33)
Good intentions; count the cost (Luke 14:28)
2. "I am ready to preach the gospel" (Rom. 1:15)
Know the value of the gospel (Rom. 1:16)
3. "Be ready always to give answer" (I Pet. 3:15)
prepare through study (II Tim. 2:15)
4. "Be ready to do every good work" (Titus 3:1)
be ready to share (I Tim. 6:18)
5. "Be ready to die for Christ" (Acts 21:13)
Christ died for you and me (I Pet. 2:21)
6. "You must be ready" (Matt. 24:42-44)
be alert and watchful for Christ's return (I Thes. 5:6)

THE SPIRIT OF DIOTREPHES

"Church bosses" are nothing new. I often think of this when I see a church paper or receive a letter from someone who is trying to run the church's business. In III John the normally mild-mannered Apostle John changes into a battling Superman by coming down on a man named Diotrephes. Diotrephes was an early church boss that decided what was right and wrong for everyone else, and when others disagreed, he disfellowshipped them. He stayed up on the current "issues" and never had any question about who was liberal and who was anti.

The fact that such church bosses existed then, and that they still exist should not be too surprising. Since man's greatest problem is pride, there are bound to be individuals who have an exaggerated view of themselves and set themselves up as judges. Perhaps the surprising element is the tendency of the church to put up with such men as Diotrephes. How can the church become so enslaved to a man or to a philosophy that they submit to spiritual cruelty?

It seems to me that we have more church bosses today than ever before. There are schools turning them out en masse. This couldn't be happening if churches weren't tolerating them. Perhaps too many church members are content to simply sit back and let someone else do their thinking and studying for them. I have the idea that Diotrephes had a quick answer for every situation and that unthinking folk were most delighted with his simple and forthright approach. They thought he got a little touch at times, but at least he was on the straight and narrow.

But John told what Diotrephes really was. He was malicious. He set out to destroy those that differed with him, and in doing so was actually amputating members of the body of Christ! He used slander (prated) and withdrew from those that it was not his place to withdraw from. He employed cheap politics in order to get his way. He liked to put himself first.

I think I'll look into the theory of reincarnation...
[by Silas Shotwell from Image magazine, Mar. 10, 1977]

The world hopes for the best but Jesus offers the best hope.

If you are without the God of Hope, then you are without hope.

BIBLE KNOWLEDGE AND SPIRITUAL MATURITY...

There is no possible way to really know the Lord and serve him properly without a knowledge of the Scriptures. Many feel or think or imagine they can be strong Christians while avoiding Bible study, but such folk are sadly mistaken and in for a rude awakening! Ezra 7:10 is the classic reminder on this subject. That passage tells us that devoted servants prepare, seek, do and teach the sacred test as a reflection of their loyalty to God. Brethren who poke fun at or make light of Bible preaching truly reflect upon their own integrity.

The world and the church need far more Scripture and less human philosophy. There are too many after-dinner speakers among us already and not nearly enough old-fashioned gospel preachers! When the saints assemble and Bible classes convene, we can do without a revival of Toastmasters Club of America. But we must have teachers and preachers who believe - with all their hearts - in the power, inspiration, beauty and necessity of straight Bible proclamation.

Students who "desire the sincere milk of the word" (I Pet. 2:2) and intend to handle aright the Scriptures certainly assist in the maturing process. Since we shall be judged by the sacred text (John 12:48) we must be thoroughly acquainted with it now. Those who "hunger and thirst after righteousness" (Matt. 5:6) never complain that "too much Bible is being preached." Folk who reason in that manner reflect their shallow, secular emphasis in life. Jesus Christ knew the Scriptures and shared them with others (Matt. 4:4; Luke 24:32). So should we today if we claim to be His followers.

Perhaps one of our basic problems is that some do not really want to know because they are not willing to take time to be holy (Rom. 10:1-3). Others may only study mechanically and learn the Bible academically just as they pursue a knowledge of math or history. Jesus rebuked the Sadducees for such behavior in Mark 12:24. But, thankfully proper Bible study is that arrangement whereby we fall in love with the Author of the Book and know him and the message (II Tim. 1:12). For, after all, there is not one single thing you can know for sure about God that you did not learn from the Bible!

Why is there a great lack of Bible knowledge?
1. Laziness and indifference.
2. Improper study habits.
3. Overemphasis upon methods.
4. Too much stress on emotionalism.
5. Too much promotionalism.
6. Not enough practical teaching.
7. Entertaining young people instead of challenging them.
8. Too much psychology in ladies class and not enough Bible.
9. Wasting time in VBS on arts, crafts and recess.
10. Too many preachers using too little Bible.

We need to get back to what made us strong and throw away the trappings of the social gospel. Spiritual maturity demands that we feed upon the spiritual message of heaven instead of the baubles of the world.
[by Johnny Ramsey, Maston Lake Journal from Maston Lake Church of Christ, June 14, 1990]

WHERE WERE YOU WHEN THE SAINTS ASSEMBLED?

One of the most discouraging sights to a sincere Christian is the visible lack of commitment to the public assembling of the saints among a good many of our brethren. It is a rare congregation indeed where about 50% of the members don't disappear on Sunday nights and Wednesday nights. Some, admittedly, are unable to get out for one reason or another. And that is understandable. But most, I fear, simply have no desire to.

Bro. Charles Hodge recently wrote an article entitled "It's meeting time! Where are you?" in which he made the following statement: "'Why won't members return on Sunday night?' This is the wrong question. The real question is, 'Why did they come Sunday morning?' Those who come for the right reasons Sunday morning will return Sunday night! So, we keep treating symptoms, and not the heart."

I think he's put his finger right on the problem. Our approach too often is to treat the symptoms, rather than going to the heart of the problem - which is: The Heart! When people don't come Sunday nights, our first thought is: "how can we change our service on Sunday evening so that we can get them to come? What we can do differently? What can we add or eliminate?" We tend to view the service as being the problem, when in most cases it's probably the person who is staying away from the service! Our question ought to be: "How can we change their hearts? How can we improve their spiritual attitudes?" rather than worrying about trying to manipulate the externals of a service so as to lure them back in.

When the saints assemble, why do you come? If you attend "for self, for personal reasons," Bro. Hodge points out that "your reasons are wrong!" Christianity is not a "ME" religion...it is an "OTHERS" religion. We assemble together to encourage, uplift, strengthen, and build up OTHERS! When we finally mature to the point where we attend the services to benefit our brethren, rather than expecting the brethren to benefit us, we will finally overcome our attendance problems!

Heb.10:24-25 tells us that we assemble together to encourage one another and to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. Is this your reason for coming? Are you truly committed to edifying your brethren and helping them grow? Are you determined to do your part to strengthen and build up the body of Christ? If this is why you attend, nothing will be able to keep you away whenever the saints assemble together! You won't want to be absent! It would be unthinkable to you!

However, if you attend only to be served, and not to serve; if you expect everyone to be there for you but you are unwilling to be there for them; if you think God promised you a life of "smooth sailing" with no problems or difficulties, or where every brother and sister had reached complete maturity and had only your best interests in mind...WAKE UP! As hard as it may be for some to realize, God's people are not yet perfect. We make mistakes and we sometimes hurt the ones we love. But hang in there with us! Encourage us and stimulate us to love and good deeds! If you're "getting nothing out of the services" may I make a suggestion? Try putting something into them...beginning with yourself...on a regular basis! It will make a difference, but to you and to us!
[by Al Maxey of Santa Fe, NM from Sycamore Chapel Newsletter, July 22, 1990, p. 2-3]

LIVE THE WAY YOU PRAY
I knelt to pray when day was done
And prayed, "Oh, Lord, bless everyone;
Lift from each saddened heart the pain
And let the sick be well again."
And then I awoke another day
And carelessly went on my way.
The whole day long I did not try
To wipe a tear from any eye;
I did not try to share the load
Of any brother on the road.
I did not even go to see
The sick man just next door to me.
Yet, once again when day was done
I prayed, "Oh, Lord, bless everyone."
But as I prayed, into my ear
There came a voice that whispered clear:
"Pause, hypocrite, before you pray,
Whom have you tried to bless today?
"God's sweetest blessings always go
By hands that serve Him here below."
And then I hid my face and cried,
"Forgive me, God, for I have lied;
Let me live another day,
And I will live the way I pray."
[from Pinellas Park Church of Christ Bulletin, May 6, 1990]

A GUIDE TO GODLY LIVING

Learn to laugh; a laugh is better than medicine. Learn to mind your own business; few men can handle their own well. Learn to tell a story; a well told story is like a sunbeam in a sickroom. Learn to say kind things; nobody ever resents them. Learn to stop grumbling; if you can't see any good in the world, keep the bad to yourself. Learn to love other people; this is a doorway to the kingdom. Learn to place yourself in the other position before condemning; it might change your whole outlook. Learn that great lessons of the Bible; no greater lessons can be learned.
[by Jeff Sweet from Sycamore Chapel Newsletter 1990]

THE FEAR OF GOD
(Psa. 36:1-2)
The "fear of God" is not a topic referred to very often these days. Yet, when we consider the world around us, the assessment of the psalmist is certainly applicable today.

In the Bible use of this expression, there is a sense in which it is used to indicate our attitude of reverence, respect and awe in our worship of God, (I Pet. 1:17, Heb. 12:28-29).

But there is also another sense in which the "fear of God" means terror and torment. It is the sort of "fear" that Jesus spoke of: (Matt. 10:28).

The tragedy of the wicked is, as David recorded in this psalm, that (Psa. 36:1, Rom. 3:18) "The sinfulness of the wicked" obscures his awareness of his true plight. He is so pleased with himself that he has no sensitivity of his sin.

On the other hand, the apostle Peter declared that God (Acts 10:35). The apostle Paul calls upon Christians to (II Cor. 7:1).
(Phili. 2:12)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 30, Aug. 5, 1990]

LIVING DAILY WITH JESUS: YOUNG AND OLDER CHRISTIANS

Preliminary reading: Matt. 15:4; Acts 15:36-41; Eph. 6:1-4; Col. 3:20-21; I Tim. 4:12; I Tim. 5:1-2; I Tim. 6:3-6; Titus 2:1-8; Titus 3:8-11; Heb. 13:17; James 2:1-9; II Pet. 3:14-18; II John 9-11; III John 9-10; Jude 17-21
Situation: The young people desire a new type of service; the old advocate caution before change.
Your reaction:
a. Split up, we'll never change "the wrinklies"?
b. The Lord did not intend the church to be run by the women and children?
c. The church must be made relevant for the young?
d. Some old people are innovative, some young people are inflexible, and vice versa?
e. We need changes so as not to become bored?
f. What was good enough in the old days in good enough today?
g. Others do it this way, why don't we?
h. Move over grandpa, we're coming through?
i. Everyone is different, and everyone has something valuable to share?
j. Other suggestions?
k. What would Jesus do?
[from The Truth in Love, No. 30, Aug. 5, 1990, p. 7]

SURELY I HAVE A DELIGHTFUL INHERITANCE
(Psa. 16:5-6)
God prepared a world of good things for mankind and, so long as people would keep within the bounds God set, it would be a pleasant place. The apostle Paul told the philosophers of Athens that...(Acts 17:26-27). Tragically, men chose to step beyond the boundary lines and so (Rom. 1:25).

But God sent Jesus into this world to show us how we might be reconciled to him and obtain "a delightful inheritance" through Jesus. He promised his followers: (John 14:2-3).

By inspiration of God, David foretold the resurrection of Jesus in Psa. 16, and he rejoiced in what this meant for all who trust in God: (Psa. 16:9-10).

The apostle Peter applied this to the resurrection of Jesus (Acts 2:24-31). Thus we have a wonderful assurance that (I Cor. 15:20).

So, as we observe the Lord's supper, let us praise him for making it possible for us to enjoy "a delightful inheritance".
[from The Truth in Love, no. 29, July 29, 1990, p. 6]

LET US EXAMINE OUR WAYS AND TEST THEM
(Lam. 3:37-40)
No Christian can afford to be complacent and think that eternal life and a home in heaven are assured if that person becomes lax and neglects to be diligent in serving the Lord. The apostle Peter urges us to "make every effort" to develop the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, and adds (II Pet. 1:5-11). The apostle Paul calls Christians to (II Cor. 13:5).

The test we must apply is not our own feelings or our own opinions, nor is it the opinions of others. The only reliable test is knowing that we have done and are continuing to do the will of God shown in his word. (Rom. 8:16). That is, when our life of obedience to the Spirit of truth is consistent with what he teaches in his word, we know we are God's children (Gal. 3:26-Gal. 4:7).
(II Pet. 3:17-18.)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 28, July 22, 1990, p. 2]

THE BRANCH OF THE LORD
(Isa. 4:2-3)
Isaiah prophesied about the messianic age to come and, in this passage, he referred to "the Branch of the Lord". The same Hebrew word translated "Branch" appears also in Jer. 23:5; Jer. 33:15; Zech. 3:8; Zech. 6:12. The Lord had promised King David many years before: (II Sam. 7:12-13). The promise is confirmed through the prophets Jeremiah and Zechariah. For example...(Jer. 23:5).

The angel Gabriel visited Mary when she was to become the mother of Jesus and told her that her son (Luke 1:31-33). This promise was fulfilled following Jesus' death and resurrection (Acts 2:29-36) and God (Col. 1:13).

Christ, "the branch of the Lord", is now seated on David's throne at the right hand of his Father in heaven, reigning over his kingdom, in which we are his subjects (Eph. 1:20).

The significance of sharing in the Lord's Supper to commemorate our Lord's death should also remind us of who our Lord is and of what he has done for us. He is the One whom the prophets foretold would come, and whom his apostles proclaimed to be the fulfilment of God's plan of salvation for us. Praise him!
[from The Truth in Love, no. 28, July 22, 1990, p. 6]

LIVING DAILY WITH JESUS: CHRISTIANS AND SERVICE CLUBS

Preliminary reading: Matt. 5:38-48; Matt. 7:12; Matt. 9:10-13; John 12:42-43; Rom. 12:13-21; I Cor. 5:9-13; I Cor. 15:33; II Cor. 8:21; II Thes. 3:6-13; I Tim. 3:7; I Pet. 4:1-5
Situation: You are proposed for membership of Rotary or Lions, etc.
Your reaction:
a. I wouldn't accept. It's a drinkers' club?
b. I would accept. It does much good community work?
c. As a Christian I could influence the members?
d. It depends how much time it would take from the Lord's work I must do?
e. Suppose some of its fund-raising activities clash with Bible principles?
f. Its members are good and honourable citizens. Membership would enhance my social standing?
g. What if its good works demand my time on Sundays when, otherwise, I ought to meet with my brethren to break bread?
h. Is it likely to compromise my stand for Christ?
i. What good works would I do with this club that I couldn't do better with the church?
j. Other suggestions?
k. What would Jesus do?
[from The Truth in Love, no. 28, July 22, 1990, p. 7]

Good deeds in us beget the desire of nobler lives in others.
[from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin]

Watch well your words. Careless speech has often caused hearts to ache and blood to flow.
[from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin]

HANDS

Hands, work scarred and tired - Some bony, some short, and fat. Hands that beg or steal, never giving. Others clean with diamonds and sweet scent.

Poor hands - needing help. Hands of the lazy, not doing their part. Reaching hands that bend down to lift. Pulling and pushing hands.

Wonderful hands that guide and lead, making the pathway safe. Healing hands - soothing hands relieving distress. Hands clasping shoulders and the sweet hand of fellowship. Happy hands clapping, waving, enjoying it all.

Pointing hands - hurting, not helping the despair of the weak. Praying hands, asking forgiveness. Talking hands, preaching the word. Saving hands - hand in hand with the HANDS nailed to the cross.
[by Jack Baker Harrell from 20th Century Christian, May, 1980]

THE DISCIPLES OF DISCOVERERS

Daniel Boorstin, Librarian of Congress since 1975 and winner of a Pulitzer Prize for a volume on American history, has made an observation which seems relevant to our time. He says: "The disciples of discoverers are enemies of discovery."

The American Restoration Movement began as an exercise in discovery. Bright men with open minds looked to Scripture in an effort to discern the will of God, distinguish that divine will from accretions and departures, and to practice the former without being encumbered by the latter.

These men urged their pupils to be open-minded, but some of those students turned their ideas into dogma. The exciting sense of discovery and restoration begin to give way to the dull and confining task of maintaining the approaches to spiritual knowledge now regarded as traditional.

Socrates loved ancient Athens but was distressed in his belief that what had made Athens great was being abandoned by most of his own generation. Thus he went on a mission he regarded as divine. Saying that Athens was like a powerful but sluggish horse, he described himself as "the gadfly of Athens." He saw his mission in terms of stinging the city not to hurt it but to awaken it.

Jesus undertook a similar role in a different context when he challenged the Jews of his time. The Law of Moses and the life of faith it called for had been replaced by the orthodoxy of Judaism and the legalistic lifestyle dictated by the Pharisees. The Lord Jesus did not repudiate the Law; neither did he reject the interpretations of its major doctrines offered by the Pharisees. He did challenge, however, their willingness to substitute orthodoxy for living faith and the smugness of their group security (e.g. "We are the children of Abraham").

Every generation must be urged to rethink its basic beliefs and fundamental commitments. There are few Socrateses or Jesuses who will appear in history to challenge whole civilizations to the task. Perhaps if enough of us who are at best devoted followers rather than charismatic leaders begin thinking, discovering, and growing again, a more general revival will occur among us.

To quote Boorstin again, "The great obstacle to progress is not ignorance but the illusion of knowledge." Until we are humble enough to resume learning, we are not true "disciples" of the Son of God. Openness precedes learning and growing.

We have never hesitated to challenge our denominational neighbors to "lay aside prejudice and study the Bible for yourself"; we must display the virtue we call for in others.
[by Rubel Shelly from Ashwood Leaves]

TO SPEAK OR NOT TO SPEAK

A wise old owl lived in an oak:
The more he saw the less he spoke;
The less he spoke the more he heard:
Why can't we all be like that wise old bird?
[by Edward Hersey Richards from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin, May 20, 1984]

I remember when I was a teenager, that many times I engaged in verbal battles. Sometimes they were minor skirmishes and sometimes they were major assaults. Without fail, when the smoke had cleared, I had said something that I regretted having said. A harsh word said in the heat of an argument oftentimes results in broken friendships and sometimes marriages.
[from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin, May 20, 1984]

A very well like elderly woman was asked one time what her formula was for making and keeping so many friends. "Well," she replied, "there's just one daily rule I follow. I'm always careful to taste my words before I let them pass my teeth."
[from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin, May 20, 1984]

WHAT? GIVE BLOOD FOR A FELLOW LIKE THAT?

A poor tramp was brought into a missionary hospital with the seventh attach of Blackwater fever. The administrators were petitioned for blood to save his life, but they refused, and the natives refused. The doctor's wife had the right type of blood so she offered it. The doctor said to her: "Do you know what kind of fellow this is? He probably has ten native women, he is filled with disease and is always drunk. Do you really want to give your blood for a fellow like that?" Her simple answer was: "Christ did!"
[from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin]

The devil is employing all those who do not keep busy in the service of the Lord.

The Christian's faith grows brighter as the days grow darker.

Who loves truth follows it.

Walls may be massive and solid, of stone or of metal, but a defective foundation will some day cause them to crack and collapse. So in character, nothing can be sure and lasting unless built upon a solid foundation.

The widow's meal increased only as she used it.

It is cowardly to fear to do that which we know is our duty.

NEW FIRES - NEW GLIMPSE!

I see some new fires of evangelism and disciple-making beginning in various places. I am reminded of a story that was told about a Scottish village where the fires had died in all the hearths, and the people were freezing.

A group was organized to scan the community with hopes of finding some coals of fire to be shared with others. Desperately they sought from house to house but to no avail.

At the point of utter frustration they decided to climb a hill and ask at one more house. To their delight they found a family hovering over a fire in their hearth. After an explanation of the problem, the family agreed to share some of their live coals. Down the hill rushed the men, first in this home to light a fire, then to another until a fire was warmly burning on every hearth in the village.

By faith, let's ascend the hill of Calvary and catch a new glimpse of the fire of evangelism that was in the First Century Church. Let's share the gospel in our "village" and unto the whole world.
[by Pat Casey from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin, May 6, 1984]

Courage is fear that has said its prayers!

Nothing lies beyond the reach of prayer except what lies outside the will of God.

A LASTING KINDNESS

Several years back, more than I like to think about, I was lounging around in the living room listening to the radio, when my Dad came in from shovelling the new snow. He looked at me quizzically, and said, "In twenty-four hours you won't even remember what you are listening to now. How about doing something for the next twenty minutes that you will remember for the next twenty years? I promise that you'll enjoy it every time you think of it."

"What is it?" I asked.

"Well, son, there are several inches of snow on old Mrs. Brown's walk," he said. "Why don't you see if you can shovel it off and get back home without her knowing."

I did the walk in 15 minutes. She never knew who did the job. Dad was right. It's been more than 20 years, and I've enjoyed the memory every time I've thought about it.
[from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin]

WHO DO YOU BELIEVE?

Men: He that believeth and is saved shall be baptized. OR Christ: He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved. (Mark 16:16)

Men: We cannot fall and be lost or once saved, always saved. OR THE BIBLE: Wherefore let him that thinketh he standest take heed lest he fall. (I Cor. 10:12; I Cor. 9:27; Heb. 6:4-6.)

Men: The kingdom of Christ is yet to come. OR Christ: Verily I say unto you, that there be some of them that stand here which shall not taste of death till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power. (Mark 9:1; Matt. 16:28; Col. 1:13.)

Men: Join the church of your choice. OR THE BIBLE: And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:47.)

Men: That "Reverend" is applied to men. OR THE BIBLE: Holy and reverend is his name. (Psa. 111:9.)

Before we take the word of men, no matter how sincere they may be, let's be as the Bereans were. They searched the Scriptures with a readiness of mind to see whether the things that were taught were true. (Acts 17:10-11.)
[by Jerry Headrick from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin]

RELIGION OF PREFERENCE

"What about homosexuals?" "That is just his sexual preference and he can not help his preference." Then we are usually involved in a long and technical investigation into the source of his preference. Is it his genes? Did he learn it from other homosexuals? Is it a reaction to something in his parents lifestyle? Grant his preference and how he acquired it. His preference poses him a difficult problem, but his preference is not his sin! Assume he can never change that preference; he is still prohibited following its sinful practice (Rom. 1:24-32).

Homosexuals also have preference problems. He may be disposed to chase women. Can he eliminate the inclination? It would be simple if he could push a button and remove the desire. It does not work that way; he will probably have to live with his propensity. Whatever his disposition, he must not commit fornication (I Cor. 6:18) - fornicators will not inherit the kingdom of God (I Cor. 6:9). Neither can he be willing to commit fornication (Matt. 5:28). God judges both practice and heart. A man's preference must be subdued to produce both a godly will and a moral life (Phili. 2:13).

A woman interrupts to justify (?) her abortion. She just prefers not to bear the child that has been conceived in her. Well that is not such a strange preference. Many people have been surprised and disappointed by an unplanned pregnancy. They did not choose to have a baby. They wish it had not happened - not now. The preference is not wrong, but neither does it justify destroying the child with an abortion. Preference does not establish right; convenience cannot determine life's course; preference is not God.

Another man prefers stealing to working - it is easier. What shall he do? Shall he follow his preference? Not if he wants to please God (Eph. 4:28) - and stay out of jail. A buddy has a real taste for beer. It smells good to him. His mouth waters at the thought of a cold Lone Star. And he really enjoys the way he feels after a few bottles. He centers his life around drinking - and his bumper sticker reads, IF IT FEELS GOOD, DO IT. What shall he do? I doubt he will suddenly detest beer, but he will have to change his practice to go to heaven. You see, good morals are not the product of personal preference.

A "church of your choice" is just another sect of this religion of preference. The defense of this religion is in arguments like "the people are so nice and friendly" and "the preaching makes me feel so good." No matter if it is God's church or if the doctrines and practices agree with truth. Another devotee comments, "I like a piano..." Well, I like an organ better, but what does God want? His preference prevails, does it not?

Preference is a significant part of what Paul calls "will worship" (Col. 2:23). Jeremiah described it by saying people "love to have it so" (Jer. 5:31). But remember: Christians live according to God's preference - even when his will is contrary to our own preference.
[by Joe Fitch from Plain Talk]

The best panacea for all your troubles is submission to the will of God.

If you worry about what people think of you, it indicates you have more confidence in their opinion than in your own.

Do not expect a thousand-dollar answer to a ten-cent prayer.

Home like banks - they go broke if you take out more than you put in.

I would rather be able to appreciate things I can not have than to have things I am not able to appreciate.
[by Elbert Hubbard]

DO NOTHING AND SIN

The neglect of positive duty is just surely wrong as the commission of overt evil. It is not sufficient to say, "So long as I don't drink and swear, lie and steal, fight and kill, I am all right." Take a soldier in the army. He doesn't have to fix his bayonet and run his colonel through to be guilty of wrong doing. He can just refuse to carry out the orders his colonel gives him. When commanded to stand guard, he can just remain in the barracks. When the battle rages, he can just lay down his arms and refuse to fight. What army would tolerate such conduct? Omission is as vicious as commission.

Remember that the King said to those on his left hand, "I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink." He did not say to them, "You were common drunkards, you dishonest, you were profane."

I can almost hear the words of John the Baptist, "Now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees; therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire." The tree that is bad deserves to be cut down, but the tree that is unproductive also deserves the fire.

In the marriage-feast of which we read in the gospels, there were many who would not come, and they perished because they would not come. You will not find one single statement made concerning them committing sins. They were shut out for not coming.

I fear for those who omit the primary commands of repentance and baptism; for those who neglect the worship of God; for those who fail to observe the Lord's Supper; for those who are too busy to pray; for those who leave the Bible lying about unread; for young people who have failed to honor their parents; and for older children who have neglected their parents in their twilight years; for those who have no out-going concern for their neighbors; for those who are ready with an excuse for every good deed which they have not performed; for all who have simply neglected.

Maybe we should preach loud and long, "You can do nothing and sin."
[by John Gipson from Little Rock, Ark.]

Clifford F. Hood, former president of the United States Steel Corporation, tells of a twelve-year-old boy who wrote to the Library of Congress requesting two books. He wanted one on space travel and another on sane living. He concluded his letter to the Library with this sentence, "If you can't send both books, send the one on space travel, 'cause I'm more interested in that."

Mr. Hood commented: "This lad mirrors our age, for we are a nation of people looking out at the distant stars, seeking to conquer them, when we have as yet to achieve sane living among ourselves on this planet."

Our compulsion for conquering other planets, when we haven't learned how to live sanely on this one, does seem strange. Sane living will never be our possession until we decide to walk in the way Jesus directed. He said...(John 14:6).

Other ways intrigue us. But the way of Jesus is the only one which gets us safely over the problems of this perplexing age. His way is the way to sane living.

I'm interested in space travel...but contrary to our little friend, if I can have only one book, send me the one on sane living, 'cause I'm more interested in that.
[by Joe R. Barnett from 20th Century Christian]

THE SUMMER OF MY GROWING UP

We have all heard parents say, "I'll be glad when my kid gets out of adolescence. He's driving me crazy!" The "limbo" world between childhood and adulthood is one of great change, when challenging discoveries are made. Some parents view adolescence as a sickness to be avoided. They prefer to just leave their children alone until they get over it. Such an approach is to miss what can be the most rewarding time in the life of both parent and child.

The other day my son asked, "Dad, when does a boy know when he is grown up enough to be a Christian?" My thoughts went back to the time I made my own commitment to Christ.

As a child, I spent many summers with my grandparents. The most memorable one was the summer I left by boyhood behind, never to take it up again.

I have not been back to my grandparents' old homeplace for many years. I am told shopping centers cover the area now. But sweet memories lie beneath those tons of steel and concrete!

Listening to your heart

I can still feel the cool grass under my bare feet and smell the aroma of a life long past. I remember the day Grandpa and I were sitting by the river that snaked around the edge of the pasture. I believe he deliberately arranged this special time alone with me.

I remember his saying often, "There are times when a man needs to be alone and just listen to his heart talk." It didn't mean much to me then, but as I've grown older I've learned to appreciate those words.

We were sitting quietly, just listening to our own thoughts, occasionally tossing a leaf into the water and watching it float away. Grandpa seemed to sense I was troubled. Almost in a whisper, he asked, "What's troublin' you, Joey?"

I felt a leap in my stomach. It was as if I had been waiting all my life for someone to ask that question. I knew if anyone could help me he could, and I began to pour out my heart to him.

Not a boy any more

"Grandpa," I said, "I don't feel like a little boy any more, and I don't feel like a man either. Do you think I'm just stuck somewhere in between? Mom says I ask too many questions. Dad says I'm awkward and clumsy and trip over my own feet. He says my feet are the biggest part of me, and I guess they are since he complains about buying shoes so often. I guess he never had big feet, huh Grandpa? Sis says I look funny because my arms and legs are too long, and my voice squeaks when I talk. Do I look funny to you Granpa?"

"Of course not Joey," he said, "You are created in the image of God."

"Does that mean he looks like me?" Grandpa smiled, put his arm around me and gave me an answer I have remembered until this day.

"Joey," he said, "You don't see God any more than you see the warmth from the sun, yet you feel it on a cold winter day. You don't see God any more than you see the wind, yet it still cools your brow on a hot summer day. You don't see God any more than you see the fragrance of honeysuckle, yet it still fills the meadow with its sweetness. You don't see God any more than you see love, but don't you just feel how it warms your heart?

Leaves caught in the current

"You are created in the spirit of God, Joey. You're not like those leaves floating in the water with no choice of which way to go, just going where they're carried by the current. You have a choice, Joey, to be what you want to be and do what you want to do. God wants you to be a child of his and serve him, but that's your choice, too. You're a free spirit. You have to decide which way to go."

He knew exactly what my problem was, but the decision to become a Christian had been troubling me for several days. It had started the night I watched as my best friend was baptised. He was a different person after that.

I remember that invitation hymn. I kept saying to myself, "I'll go after the next verse." But before I knew it, the song was over, and I was still standing in the same spot. Somehow I couldn't get my feet moving. I was just plain scared.

Like being born again

"It was just like being born again and starting a new life," Will said afterward. I understood what he was saying, but when I was younger and the preacher would say that, I'd think to myself, I had enough trouble getting this far, I sure don't want to start over again.

I left the building that night thinking, "Why did I wait? What if I never get another chance?"

Well, Grandpa and I talked for a long time. He had an answer for everything. I began to understand a lot about growing up, physically and spiritually. I had been brought up in the church and knew what I needed to do, but making the decision came very hard.

Grandpa and I prayed together. I made my decision by the side of the river that day to follow Christ. I remember the words my Grandpa said to me, as he led me into the water.

For if you become a babe again,
As a man you start free from sin.
God will forgive all wrongs said and seen,
To the Lord Joey, there is no in between.

All physical traces of that day are gone forever, but I will never forget the summer of my growing up.
[by Joseph Bush from 20th Century Christian]

OUR COMPASSIONATE GOD

A Stoic author from a bygone age once declared "...Never God and Man can meet, A stone will hear me more easily than Jupiter." The Stoics were among the great thinkers of the age, and this depressing view of God and his relationship with man was the end product of their human reasoning. They argued that if God could be affected by sorrow or joy, at what happens to man, he would in some way be dependant upon man for his well-being. Since this was unthinkable, the only alternative was to conclude that God was by nature unfeeling, moved neither by prayer nor pity.

How very different from this grim figment of Man's imagination, is the living God who has revealed himself in the pages of the Bible and in the person of our savior, Jesus Christ. The Jesus of the gospels is no cold remote figure. He was moved by compassion when He saw the hunger and pain of men (Matt. 14:14; Mark 1:41), and He wept bitterly over the tragic plight of those ravaged by sin (Luke 19:41). Although himself the very source of all creation (Rev. 3:14) he did not view men and women as pawns in some cosmic game; He called them his brethren (Heb. 2:11), he showed them how to live (John 1:4) and he died that they might have life. Jesus revealed to men a God who loves them.

It really does matter how you and I see God. We become like that which we worship. The Stoics, believing God to be indifferent, strove themselves to cultivate indifference, arguing that peace would be achieved only by banishing all feeling and emotion. Ideally the loss of wealth, power, position, children or wives should be greeted with the same response - "It really does not matter." Having created their own god, the Stoics strove to imitate their creation.

In the person of Jesus Christ, God revealed himself as a compassionate Father. Love brought Jesus from the blessed shore to this vale of tears (John 3:16). Here then is our ideal, our model to emulate - our compassionate God. As we become more like Him we will begin to love our brethren as God loves them. As we come to understand Him more our compassion for the needy, the oppressed and the downtrodden will grow. As we strive to follow the example of Christ more perfectly we will more readily weep with those who weep. As the cross is enshrined more perfectly in our hearts we will become ever more inclined to turn away wrath with a gentle reply and to forgive from the heart those who have offended us. Life in the Son involves becoming ever more like the compassionate God whom we worship.
(II Cor. 3:18)
[by Rex Banks from Hamilton bulletin]

HOW BLEST ARE THOSE

What a wonderful privilege the disciples enjoyed when they sat with Jesus to hear his Word! What a precious privilege is ours when we together meditate on his Word and join in prayer and praise!

How happy then were those who heard him speak. How happy now are we who know the things he said to them - and left for us. We see how different from the selfish thoughts of men are the wise and gracious words of God.

Happy are those whose hearts are humble; who grieve for sin; who own a meek and quiet spirit; who thirst for righteousness. Blessed are those who are touched by the needs and sufferings of others; who are sincere and pure in heart; who yearn and strive for peace; who, unstyled by persecution, bravely bear reproach for Jesus' sake. What a perfect standard for conduct. "They sat enthralled and heard him say: Blest are the humble, meek and pure; Blest those who yearn for right and peace, And those who would be merciful; Those who endure both shame and hurt for Christ, And in it all rejoice. How blest are those!"
[by Paul C. Witt of Abilene, Tex. from Hamilton Church of Christ bulletin] [Relevant scripture: Matt. 5]

WHY ARE FIRE TRUCKS RED?

Do you know why fire trucks are red? Well, fire trucks have four wheels and eight men. Four and eight make twelve. There are 12 inches in a foot. A foot is a ruler and Queen Elizabeth is a ruler. And, "Queen Elizabeth" is the largest ship on the seven seas. Seas have fish. Fish have fins. The Finns fought the Russians. The Russians are red. Fire trucks are always rushin'. Therefore, fire trucks are red. If you think that is wild you ought to hear some of our members trying to explain why they are excusing themselves from their responsibilities.

Failure is merely an opportunity to start over again, wiser than before.
[from Eustis Church of Christ bulletin]

Instead of putting others in their place, put yourself in their place.
[from Eustis Church of Christ bulletin]

THE FEE

In a small midwestern town, there lived a young widow with her five-year-old son who had been blind from birth.

After months of saving money, the mother traveled to an eastern city where she was informed that surgery could give eyesight to her son.

When told that the mother was not able to pay the normal fee, the surgeon replied that restoring the boy's sight had first priority.

Following the successful operation...and long days and nights of waiting to remove the bandages, a smile of delight, great delight, came upon the boy's face as he beheld his mother for the first time. "Mother, you are more beautiful than I every dreamed you could be!"

The day came to leave the hospital. The boy wanted to give the doctor something, but the only thing he had was a small teddy bear, his companion since infancy. One arm was gone, one leg has lost its stuffing, an eye was missing, but the bear was still the dearest possession he had.

A huge package was waiting on their arrival home. The biggest and finest teddy bear that money could buy was found inside. But in the surgeon's office carefully placed under glass, sits a little brown and tattered teddy bear, with one arm, a limp leg and one eye. On a card in front of the bear are found these words, "The largest single fee I ever received for professional services."

Are we as grateful for our spiritual sight as to give unto the great physician our dearest possession?
[by Ken Beard from Savannah, Georgia Church of Christ bulletin]

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