THE SILENCE OF GOD

Have you ever experienced the silence of God? For an example, let's say your child is born deformed, or that your child is killed when he is only 5 years old, or maybe you end up being blinded, or cripped for life. You might ask - "God why did this have to happen to me?" and there seems to be a leaden silence. Sometimes there is a struggle when we deal with the silence of God. Sometimes we even wonder if God is there or if he really cares. Have you ever felt like saying - "God if you are there, would you please just say so!"

There was a Canaanite woman in the Bible who wrestled with the silence of God. She requested that Jesus have mercy on her and heal her daughter who was demon-possessed. But Jesus did not answer her a word. She kept crying out to Jesus, which seemed to embarrass his disciples, who asked Jesus to send her away. Jesus told his disciples that he had come only to the house of Israel. You see, the woman was a gentile. She was told in essence that it was not for her. How did she handle the silence of Jesus? Well, she just knew that Jesus could help her. She had the faith, or in other words - she had the confidence that Jesus could help her. She waited out the silence of God and received one of the greatest compliments that Jesus ever gave to anyone. He said, "O woman you faith is great; be it done for you as you wish," and her daughter was healed at once.

We overcome the silence of God in our lives because we have faith that Jesus can help us. If we wait long enough there is always a blessing. We believe in his promises because we have our confidence and trust in Jesus. Note the promises we have...(Rom. 8:31-39).
[by John Beckloff from Morningside Auckland bulletin, May, 1983, p. 1]

JESUS AS LORD

Often times we today are prone to think of Jesus only as our Saviour, and a wonderful Saviour He is. (Rom. 5:6). There appears to be a greater readiness by many in our world today to accept Jesus as Saviour than there is to accept Jesus as Lord. For one thing, we live in a part of the world that knows very little of lords and masters. It is significant for us to note however, though Jesus is described as Saviour 24 times in the New Testament, he is called Lord 433 times! The Lordship of Jesus Christ was and is the message of the New Testament. (Matt. 28:18-20).

Note the words underlined in the above passage. There is no doubt from these words about who is Lord and who is to be preached as Lord. The apostle Paul wrote...(II Cor. 4:5).

As Christians, you and I are subjects in our Lord's kingdom. (Col. 1:13). It is a frustrating thing to try to live in the Lord's kingdom and at the same time to avoid living under His Lordship or control. In fact, Jesus said you can't do it. (Matt. 6:24). There are some who are quick to accept the free gift of the Saviour but are slow to commit their lives to the leadership of the Lord. Jesus said...(Luke 6:46). Accepting Jesus as Lord, involves a surrendered will. A good question each of us could ask ourselves is, am I still trying to run my own life, or, have I turned it all over to Jesus? Gracious Father, teach us to know Jesus as Lord.
[by Lester Farrell from Morningside Bulletin, May, 1983, p. 1]

THE LIBERAL - AN ENEMY OF THE TRUTH

It is the dreadful disease which has and is plaguing the Lord's church. It is the "wolf in sheep's clothing" that has privily crept its way into what used to be some of the strongest congregations, leaving in its path shredded shambles. Yes, it is the weed that has choked both the strength and scripturalness from many congregations of the one true New Testament church. What is it? Liberalism!

Faithful members of the Lord's church bear the responsibility of defanging this foe. The faithful child of God who stands for the truth, must keep a wary eye open at all times to see that not even one degree of the liberal element makes its way into the congregation of which he is a part. Below is a list of some of the stands and affirmations of the liberal. May the enumeration and brief refutation of these damnable doctrines aids us in depicting and uprooting every blade of this weed of destruction.

1.	Liberalism's stands concerning the Bible.
	(a)	The liberal repudiates the Bible as the verbally (word for word) inspired word of God. Yet, Paul exclaims...(II Tim. 3:16).
	(b)	The liberal rejects the Bible as the final voice of authority, the complete and final revelation from God. Yet, Jude spoke of the gospels as...(Jude 3).
	(c)	The liberal affirms that truth is subjective (what you feel), rather than absolute (the word of God). Such claims stand in direct contrast to John's words...(John 17:17).
2.	Liberalism's stands concerning the church.
	(a)	The liberal fails to advocate that salvation is limited to the one true church. Paul, however, affirmed that Jesus is to be the...(Eph. 5:23). Note the singularity of Paul's affirmation, "the body." Now, the body is the church. (Eph. 1:22-23). Thus, if the body is the church, and Jesus will save only the body, then it only follows that he is the savior of "only the church, the one true church."
	(b)	The liberal cries, "Let's hear about CHrisitianity and not Churchianity. Preach about Christ, yes, the church, no!" Such statements make the church a non-essential institution. Yet, Jesus shed his blood for the church. (Acts 20:28). Yes, he gave himself for the church, thus proving its importance. (Eph. 5:25). The church is important. One cannot have Christ without the church. Christianity and the church, Christ and the church are inseparable.
	(c)	The liberal claims that the church is just another denomination. The term "denomination" simply means "division". Jesus condemned and prayed against division. (John 17:20-21). Paul, Christ's apostle, condemned division. (I Cor. 1:11-13). Now, if the church is a denomination (division) then such can only mean that Jesus and the apostle Paul were condemning the church. Such is indeed absurd; as already observed above. Jesus gave himself for the church. (Eph. 5:25). Therefore, since neither Jesus nor Paul, nor any of the inspired writers ever condemned the church, yet did condemn division, the church cannot be a denomination (division).
	(d)	The liberal is willing to fellowship with anyone, regardless of religion. Such practice stands contrary to the commands of John. With reference to those who abideth not in the teaching of Christ...(II John 9-10).
3.	Liberalism's stand concerning doctrine
	(a)	The liberal claim that doctrine is non-essential. "Forget about doctrine," they cry, "Preach on love." To reject doctrine is to reject the word in its entirety. The word and doctrine go hand in hand. (II Tim. 3:16-17; II John 9).
	(b)	The liberal claims that if doctrine is a must, then any doctrine will do. The inspired John exclaimed that if a man does not abide in the "doctrine of Christ" he hath not God. (II John 9). One must adhere solely to the word, combating liberalism, must "stand fast in the faith"...(I Cor. 16:13), speaking the truth (doctrine) in love"...(Eph. 4:15). We must "preach the word." (II Tim. 4:2).

Let us forever be on guard against the ravaging wolf of liberalism. In the words of Jesus...(Matt. 7:15).
[from Hamilton Herald, 25 May 1983, p. 1-2]

DOING WHAT IS RIGHT

You can always find excuses for not doing the things you do not want to do.

There are things in life which we don't particularly like doing, but which we do because they are for our good. I may not like to have a tooth pulled but for the sake of my health should willingly take the treatment.

The same principle applies in true religion. The Spirit of God through the word, convicts the world of sin (John 16:8). The word is called the "sword of the spirit" (Eph. 6:17). Through reading the word or hearing it preached it may not be pleasant to learn we are sinners, that we are separated from God, or that something in our lives is wrong. Nevertheless it is to my advantage to know these things and to take the prescribed remedial action.

There may be some things God requires of the Christian which one may not particularly like to do. One may like to "lie in" on Sunday morning rather than worship God, like to watch T.V. in the comfort of home instead of expending the effort to attend Bible study or worship, or prefer to spend all spare time for leisure rather than assist another along life's road. But when what God wants of us is considered, and the fact that our own spiritual wellbeing (and that of others) is at stake, those things which are considered difficult should be done willingly anyway.

As knowledge of God, faith in and love for Him grow, then also should obedience to all of His commands become a pleasure. May our love for Him be a controlling force in our lives. (II Cor. 5:14)
[by R. Merrick from Invercargill Bulletin, Mar., 1983, p. 1]

FREEDOM OF CHRIST

One aspect of our freedom in Christ is freedom from law keeping. A New Testament Christian is freed from keeping a list of do's and don'ts in order to go to heaven. (Eph. 2:8-9). Paul is speaking here of merit type of works in order to earn our way to heaven. That would be a cause for our boasting before God, if we could get to heaven by our own efforts. The problem that man has is that he cannot keep a list of do's and don'ts. Paul says that law keeping puts man under a curse. (Gal. 3:10; Rom. 3:19-20). Everyone has sinned and we know that the wages of sin is death (Rom. 3:23; Rom. 6:23).

If we are not justified before God by works, then why do we do good works? Let us go back and read Eph. 2:10. Notice in verses Eph. 2:8-9 Paul says we are not justified before God by our works but rather by our faith in what God has done through Christ (Eph. 2:1-9). Then in Eph. 2:10 Paul says we do good works now because of who we are. We have been created anew. II Cor. 5:17 says that any person in Christ is a new creature. We do good works now not to become saved but because we are saved.

How different this is from the world's religions and philosophies. Every world religion that I am acquainted with has a system of works in order to one day maybe reach "salvation". They do not understand the nature of God's grace. Paul says in Gal. 5:1 to stand firm in this freedom and not to go back to the yoke of slavery of a merit system. To go back to a merit system is to be severed from Christ and to have fallen from grace (Gal. 5:2-5). Rom. 7:4.
[by John Beckloff from Morningside bulletin, Mar., 1983, p. 1]

AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

What an honoured position God has given every Christian. Not only has God pulled us out of the miry clay and set our feet on a rock but He has also given us the job of being His ambassadors. We are to be God's representatives in this world of darkness and doubt. We have been given a commission from God to tell the world of the good news about Christ crucified, now resurrected. So important is this commission as ambassadors it is as if God were speaking to the world through us. For as Paul states it...(II Cor. 5:20). What an honour! Called by the God of the universe to be His ambassador! Usually, only the most capable people are chosen as ambassadors, yet God thinks so much of each one of us that He wants us to be His representatives. There is nothing more soul destroying than unemployment; unemployment may be a problem in our society but it should never be a problem with God's people. A Christian may be out of work from time to time but we are never out of the employment of God as His ambassadors. Every single one of us has a job for God to do, every day of our lives.

But what is our message to be as God's envoy? What does God want us to tell them in our official capacity as ambassador for Christ? It is a very simple message...(II Cor. 5:20). We are to tell our neighbours that God wants to be their friend if they will only be His friend. It is a message of reconciliation, called the "ministry of reconciliation" (II Cor. 5:18). Sometimes you may have been asked to act as a go between in a disagreement between two people. You go and see them and try to get them to make it up, that is, to be reconciled. Man has turned away from his Maker and our sin has caused God to turn away from us. We are God's enemies and He is our enemy. But in the Father's great love, even though we are His enemies, He sent His Son to be the go between. He even died doing it! But in Christ's death He made it possible for all men to be reconciled to God by paying the penalty for sin (Rom. 5:10). We have been reconciled, now we have been made Christ's ambassadors with the plea "we beg you be reconciled to God". God is willing, He has always been willing and Christ's death has now made it possible. As we tell others of the Father's love and Christ's great sacrifice on our behalf some of them will be willing too.

What an honour and privilege it is to be given such an important job. Maybe you feel, as did the apostle Paul, "who is adequate for these things" (II Cor. 2:16). It is a job too important for me to do! But we can be assured that God will help us if we will only ask...(II Cor. 3:5-6). Just think, God has given us an important job to do, but He will also help us do it!

Will you do it for Christ?
[by Terry Schaeffer from Morningside Bulletin, Feb., 1983, p. 1]

EVERY MAN COMPLETE IN CHRIST

In Col. 1:25-29, the apostle Paul speaks about the ministry which he had received from God.

Note Paul's intent as an apostle of Christ. The first part of verse 29 literally reads.... Paul would have channeled and taxed all of his energies into "admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom." In his own words, his intent was to "present every man complete in Christ" (complete = mature, fullgrown). What loftier goal can you imagine than this?

What about you and me today? We have not been called to be apostles like Paul but each one of us does have a God given ministry. We have been called to...(I Pet. 3:15). Each one of us can and should share what we have found in Jesus with others as the Lord given us opportunity. Am I fulfilling my God given ministry?
[by Lester Farrell from Morningside bulletin, Mar., 1983, p. 1]

LOVE IS...GOD

When people say that love is not sensible, they are obviously talking about romance or infatuation. In this judgement, they are absolutely correct. But, to say that Agape love, this is "the love of God in Christ" is not sensible, is absolute nonsense.

Love is the most completely sense-able thing in the world. It has to be evidenced. It has to be conveyed. It has to be demonstrated. "For God so loved the world that He dwelt among us." and "If you have seen me, you have seen the Father" are statements about loving becoming tangible. Sense-able.

"I feel love, but I can not demonstrate it" is pure double-talking nonsense. None-sense. One may feel an emotion and have difficulty expressing it, but if you love, you will express that love. When it comes to love Expression=Existence. No expression=No love.

Now, you may have trouble accepting this idea, because we have been instructed by every conceivable means, that love is a feeling. People "fall in love" and the singer moans, "The thrill is gone." However, when we examine carefully the message of God and look intently upon the nature of God, we find that exactly the opposite is true.

Love is that commitment to do what is best for another regardless of how you feel. That is why God is love, and the expression of love is always seen in the person of God as he works among us. Jesus did not have "warm emotional feelings" when he contemplated the cross as He prayed to the Father for strength and enquired of "perhaps another way." His feeling was basically fear and agony. Dread - agony - pain - grief - tears. Does that sound like a popular song about love? Hardly.

What Jesus did when he demanded, "Put away your sword" and when he refused to defend himself and when he underwent the whip, carried the crossbeam and allowed the nails to be driven into his flesh - he did in spite of the fear, dread, pain and agony. He did it for love. And when he did it he made love real. Visible. Tangible. While feelings screamed and cried "NO!" Love said, "Your will be done."

To Thomas He said "Come and put your hand in my side - touch and believe." And Thomas reached out his hand the touched love. For that is the nature of God. It wasn't that God decided to love or to become loving. There was no decision for love and its evidence was and is simply an expression of his nature and person. God is love. And God's love is always Sense-Able. It is felt and known.
[by Doug Varnado from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 15, 1995, p. 2]

UNNOTICED BUT NOT UNIMPORTANT

As the countdown reached zero, the giant rocket lifted off its pad, destination outer space to collect scientific data. Everything was functioning perfectly, and it seemed as if this would be a highly successful shot. But suddenly, 120 seconds after lift-off, the bird went haywire, and the Range Safety officer had to abort the mission. Up in a fiery cloud went thirteen million dollars, months of hard work, and perhaps the only chance for the U.S. to send a space-probe of this type for at least two more years.

What when wrong? What caused the tragedy and disappointment? A technician had omitted a hyphen (-) from a computer tape in the rocket's mechanical brain.

The greater tragedy is that many "average" Christians feel a little like that missing hyphen. Their contributions are unnoticed! They feel insignificant in view of the overall work of the church! They may think that they are not needed! Nothing could be farther from the truth! When Paul taught the great lessons about cooperation within the body (I Cor. 12:3-8; I Cor. 12:12-27), was he trying to tell some of us that we are unnoticed, unneeded, and therefore, insignificant? When he wrote, "we have this treasure in earthen vessels" (II Cor. 5:7), was he saying that "clay pots" are worthless? To the contrary, every part of the body, and even earthen vessel is important to the work of the church! Even if you sometimes feel like a hyphen, there is a special place for you in the Lord's church.
[by Dick Sztanyo from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 15, 1995, p. 2-3]

GOD'S WONDERFUL BOOK

No human author, publisher, or editor ever planned the Bible. No official committee sat down in the beginning to map out the production schedule of the sixty-six books of the Bible. The idea was conceived only in the mind of Almighty God.

Jehovah God inspired forty different authors and editors to produce, over a 1600-year span, the original text. The same God who breathed life into man when He created Adam in His own image breathed His revelation and will into the written word.

From Genesis 1 to Revelation 22, kings and rulers, nations and empires rise and fall across this books' pages. The Bible grew portion by portion, century by century into a progressive record of God's dealings with mankind, climaxing with the redemption intervention of God Himself to man's salvation.

Although the Holy Spirit allowed the human authors to express their unique personalities and write for the most part within their own background and experiences, the scriptures declare in hundreds of places, "The Lord said ... spake ... commanded." It is God's wonderful book!

God's wonderful book is inexhaustible. Men have drawn from the unsearchable riches of this incomparable book for centuries, yet there are more truths to be learned. It has been studied more microscopically than any other book. Thousands of commentaries have been written on it. Millions of sermons have been preached from its texts, yet it has more to offer. It is the "bread of life" and no matter how many slices we cut from it each day, there is plenty left for tomorrow. The works of men become stale and obsolete but God's book is ever fresh and up to date. We need to store the Word of God in our hearts and use a fresh supply every day (Psa. 119:11; Matt. 4:1-6).

God's wonderful book is unified. The Bible deals with a unified central theme: the plan of God to redeem man through Jesus Christ (Col. 1:18).

The unique circumstances under which the Bible was penned makes its unity a wonder. It was written on at least two continents and in three languages. It was completed over a period of sixteen centuries. It was penned by forty men of diversity of vocations: judges, kings, priests, prophets, patriarchs, ministers, herdsmen, scribes, soldiers, physicians, and fishermen. It was written under a variety of conditions: in tents, deserts, cities, palaces, dungeons, in time of danger and in time of joy. Isn't it a wonder that it agrees from beginning to end? There is an answer: God is the controlling mind behind it all (II Pet. 1:21; I Cor. 2:12-13).

Have you read God's wonderful book today?
[by Levi Sides from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 8, 1995, p. 2]

QUIET DESPERATION

Do you remember the woman who secretly touched the hem of Jesus' garment in a desperate attempt to find healing?

What an unhappy lady she was! Her disease had drained her physical and financial resources. Most of all, it had left her nearly hopeless. It doesn't appear, however, that many present on that day were greatly concerned about her condition, or even aware of it. At the moment, something more exciting was occurring. The crowd was following Jesus to an emergency...to see Him try to save a dying girl.

This woman isn't like the blind beggar, screaming for attention; nor is she like the ten lepers, whose loathesome illness was exposed to the sight of all. She is not in an obvious crisis, like the naked, wounded man lying in his own blood on the Jericho road.

But she represents a multitude. She represents all those who live "lives of quiet desparation;" those whose fear, guilt, and loneliness is concealed from normal powers of perception. Life has been unkind to them or they're victims of their own mistakes. In either case, their sorrows and frustrations are not for publication. Yet, their burdens are as real as the rags and sores of poverty by which the world in general diagnoses human need. She represents those whose secret suffering is so often overshadowed by the more observable disasters of life.

Jesus was aware of her unspoken, invisible plight. Those who would minister in His name must become as sensitive, as perceptive. To do so, we must first subordinate personal preoccupations. Jesus did. His ministry help priority over all self-centered needs and desires.

Then, there must be developed in us the diagnostic skills of the Spirit: Compassion, love, gentleness, and patience. Mere humanistic insight and piety can respond to the moans of the starving and the open wounds of emergency cases. The world should be able to expect more of those in whom the spirit of Jesus really lives.
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 8, 1995, p. 2-3 and Jan. 14, 1996, p. 2]

WHAT DOES IT COST TO BE A MEMBER OF THE CHURCH?

(Luke 14:26-27.) In this passage, the Lord explains in more detail what he meant in...(Matt. 6:33). Friend, it costs EVERYTHING to be a member of the church; but, few people are willing to pay the price. Paul said...(Phili. 2:21). The Lord Jesus said...(Mark 12:29-30). One's life is to be a "living sacrifice" (Rom. 12:1-3). Are you willing to pay the price?

Are you willing to sacrifice your country? Abraham did (Gen. 12:1-4; Heb. 11:8-10). If we are a friend of this world, we cannot be a friend of God (James 4:4). We must confess and so live to declare we are simply strangers and pilgrims on this earth (Heb. 11:13).

Are you willing to sacrifice your family and friends? Abraham did when he left his homeland. Most people today are unwilling to give up family ties. Jesus said he came to bring a sword, not peace. (Matt. 10:34-39). The context of these verses points out clearly that if one's family hinders their obedience to the gospel and living the Christian life, then one must break with family, even if those of his own house become his foes. That's loving God and Christ more than family. The Lord will accept nothing less!

Are you willing to sacrifice your personal privilege? Abraham did when he gave Lot his choice of the land (Gen. 13:7-11). This is denying self, just as Jesus said we must do (Luke 14:26-33; Phili. 2:4). We live to serve, not be served.

Being a member of the church will cost you your life, not only in service, but possibly even your death if need be (Rev. 2:10). Unless you are willing to surrender all, Jesus said...(Luke 14:26). That's a high price looking at it from our standard, but hardly any to pay for eternal reward in heaven. Repent and be baptized today to become a member of the church (Acts 2:38).
[by Garland M. Robinson from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Dec. 25, 1994, p. 2-3]

JOY AND PEACE

We're accustomed to seeing the terms "Joy" and "Peace" together. One follows the other in Paul's list of the fruit of the Spirit.

These conditions of mind and heart are also familiar associates during the Christmas season. They're so closely related that one can't exist without the other. Both terms suggest a security independent of circumstances, and a confidence based on trust in the love and power of God.

This season, as always, we're wishing "Joy to the world" and "Peace among men." What will determine whether these wishes come true?

Certainly, it can't depend on external conditions. There are those we know who are facing severe economic pressures. Some are out of work, and other feel definitely threatened.

Under these unstable conditions, is the spirit of joy and peace still possible? Is it even realistic?

That depends on the basis of our security. If our confidence is in a God who is loving and at the controls of the universe, we have as much reason for joy and peace in times of adversity as we did in the most prosperous of times.

Christmas is a reminder that...(John 3:16). Paul reasons that if God gave His precious Son for us, He will certainly provide all else we need.

He has promised to meet our every need "according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." For those who love by this faith, this season's wishes of "joy and peace" will be fulfilled!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Dec. 18, 1994, p. 2-3 and Dec. 24, 1995, p. 3]

BLESSED IS CONSCIOUS IGNORANCE

Don't get me wrong. I don't want to make a blanket approval of ignorance. I know that ignorance often produces vanity, and pride, and annoyance. Disraeli pointed out the ineptness of ignorance when he said, "Ignorance never settles a question." And Goethe declared, "There is nothing more frightful than an active ignorance." Centuries ago Plato said, "It is better to be unborn than untaught: for ignorance is the root of misfortune." But there is another side to the question.

The condition for acquiring knowledge is always conscious ignorance. The moment a man says he does not know, he puts himself in a position to gain knowledge. Frequently it is not the possession of knowledge that stops progress. It is the mischief which is done by the assumption that the knowledge is final. Surely this was the problem of the religious leaders who confronted Jesus. They knew too much to be taken-in by a carpenter from Nazareth. What could He teach them? And others fall into the same trap. When Paul wrote to the Corinthians he said...(I Cor. 1:26-29).

On one occasion Jesus said...(Matt. 11:25).

G. Campbell Morgan comments, "What a blessed thing it is that God has always revealed these things to the simple-hearted and the simple-minded...there is a new priestism abroad today which says that we cannot interpret this Book (The Bible) unless we know original languages in all their ramifications. It is not true. The man who can put two and two together as to Semitic languages, and as to Greek dialect, may never see the flame of glory that any little child can see who takes up the Book and studies it with the simple heart of the babe." Blessed is conscious ignorance!
[by John Gipson from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 22, 1995, p. 2]

HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH?

A teacher employed by a prominent theological seminary was recently quoted as warning that the "forgive and forget" method of managing relational conflicts could be very "harmful to your health!"

If that's true, it's reasonable to suppose that those who have employed this life-principle most faithfully were emotionally damaged by their experiences. Were they?

Take Samuel, for example. After years of faithful service as Israel's minister, they fired him! How did he respond? "God forbid that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you." How about Paul, who was slandered by some who owed their salvation to him. He said, "I will all the more gladly spend and be spent for you, though the more I love, the less I be loved." Then there was Jesus, abused and rejected as no other has ever been, saying from the cross, "Forgive them."

To be fair, perhaps the intention of this warning was to avoid suppression of anger. That IS harmful, and the Elder Brother is our chief witness! Still, we must deal with the fact that the world's most wholesome personalities have lived by the "forgive and forget" philosophy.

The truth is that this approach to managing personal hurts COULD be harmful to your health! If our "normal" tendency toward self-preservation has not been replaced by the deeper conviction of security in God; if "normal" tendencies toward seeking justice and redress of grievance have not been overruled by a stronger sense of mercy; if drives of selfish ambition have not been subordinated to love and a positive satisfaction in ministry, then quite likely, the attempt to "forgive and forget" will result in brooding resentment.

The ethics of Jesus cannot be successfully adopted as a formula for living by those whose motivations, values, and security systems have not been transformed by His Spirit residing within. To minister happily, avoiding ego damage and threat to our security, we must rest in the knowledge that our lives are truly "hid with Christ in God." Only then can yielding result in a sense of victory, rather than defeat!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 22, 1995, p. 2-3]

READER FEELS LIVING CHURCH DESERVES AS MUCH AS WE CAN GIVE IT

The following article appeared on Page 13 of the Lifestyle section of The Chattanooga Times on Sunday, June 26, 1994. This Dear Abby column has something to say. "Think on these things."

Dear Abby: In a recent column, a reader complained about the amount of money he was expected to give to the church. Perhaps this piece will provide an answer to that question. I regret I don't know who the author is, but I hope you feel that it's worth sharing -- Bob Whitmore, Eugene, Oregon.

Dear Bob Whitmore: I do. And many thinks for sending it.

Is the church costing too much?

Last Sunday, another golfer sank the last putt on the 19th green and received a check for $50,000 for four rounds of golf, plus an automobile for himself and one for his wife. This week, the papers reported that a certain popular singer will receive $100,000 per week for her current singing engagement. Americans spend annually more on dog food than on church contributions. It is not unusual for an individual to pay more for his country club membership than he gives to the church. Is the church costing too much?

Let me share an experience with you. On June 2, 1940, a little girl was born to us. She cost us money from the moment she was born. As she grew from babyhood to girlhood, she cost even more - her dresses and shoes were more expensive, and we had to have the doctor through all those childhood diseases.

She was even more expensive during her school and teen years. She needed long dresses to go to parties. When she went to college we discovered, along with other parents, that all college expenses are not listed in the catalog. Then after graduation, she fell in love and married. She was married in a church wedding and that, too, cost a lot of money.

Then, five months after her marriage, she suddenly sickened and within a week was dead. She hasn't cost us a penny since the day we walked away from her grave.

As long as the church is alive, she will cost money. And the more alive a church is, the more money she will cost. Only a dead church, like a dead child, is no longer expensive.

Think it over. Is the church costing too much?
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 29, 1995, p. 2]

OPEN HIS EYES

The old prophet and his servant awakened one morning to find themselves surrounded by the Syrian army. The servant panicked! He was sure that there was no hope of escape. But the prophet of God was amazingly calm, even though he faced the same peril. He prayed, "Lord, open the young man's eyes, that he may see!" The Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw the flaming chariots of God encircling Elisha.

Human conditions CAN be depressing! We may face problems that seem insurmountable. We may experience loses that are overwhelming. Those whose trust is in the Lord are not expected to deny the reality of unhappy experiences.

There are, however, OTHER realities which override every tragedy and threat. Whatever the circumstance, the Christian is encircled by the presence, love, and protection of God.

God's chariots surround us! That is a fact. We may not benefit fully from this fact, due to our inability to RECOGNIZE His presence. If we're to avoid despair, the need is not for a greater supply of protection or power, but simply for the faith to see that which is already here, waiting to comfort, reassure, and sustain those whose eyes are open!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 29, 1995, p. 2-3]

When you have come to the edge of all the light you know, and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown, Faith is knowing one of two things will happen: there will be something solid to stand on or you will be taught to fly.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 29, 1995, p. 3]

SURPRISE IN HEAVEN

I dreamt death came the other night,
And heaven's gate swung wide,
An angel with halo bright
Ushered me inside.
And There! To my astonishment,
Stood folks I'd judged and labeled
As "quite unfit", "of little worth" and "spiritually disabled".
Indignant words rose to my lips,
But never were set free,
For every face showed stunned surprise -
Not one expected ME!
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 29, 1995, p. 3]

RECIPE FOR A HAPPY HOME

One cup of love,
One cup of thoughtfulness,
One cup of friendship,
Blend together with a pinch of tenderness,
One big dash of loyalty,
Blend in faith, hope and charity,
Add a spoon of compassion,
One of gaiety that sings,
also one of ability to laugh at little things.
Moisten with years of joy, sorrow and sympathy.
Make in a pan of good nature and serve repeatedly.

THE FRIEND AT MIDNIGHT (Luke 11:8)

Jesus' story of the Friend at Midnight has a definite touch of humor to it, if we use a bit of imagination. But beneath the humor there are some very serious and precious realities.

Midnight is still awfully late to bother anyone! But the beauty of the story is that there IS a true friend who will respond to our needs, despite the lateness of the hour.

It appears that this man in need ran immediately to the house of his good friend, as soon as he found himself lacking. But possibly he didn't. If he was like some of us, he may have exhausted his less dependable resources first.

We can wait a long time before it occurs to us to turn to the One who alone is both able and willing to satisfy our needs. We can pursue a lot of inadequate solutions before finally deciding, in desperation, to give our problems to God.

Our Father eagerly waits to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings which are too many for us to receive! He longs to give us what we need, in terms of intimacy with Him, forgiveness, comfort, and guidance. But, James laments, "You receive not because you ask not."

Well, perhaps the man in the parable discovered that all other agencies were closed to him. Then he remembered his Special Friend!

And what was the outcome? Did he receive the three loaves he requested? We have no way to knowing. What we DO know is that he got "as much as he needed."

God would not be a true friend if he were to grant us what we, in the distorted wisdom of panic, sometimes ask for. But He will certainly give us "as much as we need."

Why not save some energy and frustration and go to Him first?
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 5, 1995, p. 2-3 and Feb. 11, 1996, p. 2-3]

BLESSED BIBLE

Blessed Bible, how I love it!
How it doth my bosom cheer!
What hath earth like this to covet?
Oh, what stores of wealth are here!
Man was lost and doomed to sorrow,
Not one ray of light or bliss,
Could he from earth's treasures borrow
'Til his way was cheered by this.
Yes, I'll to my bosom press thee,
Precious word I'll hide thee here,
Sure my heart will ever bless thee,
For thou ever sayest "Good cheer."
Speak my heart and tell thy ponderings,
Tell how far thy rovings led,
When this book brought back thy wonderings,
Speaking life as from the dead.
Yes, sweet Bible, I will hide thee,
Hide thee richly in this heart;
Thou through all my life will guide me,
And in death we will not part!
Part in death! No, never, never!
Through death's vale I'll lean on thee;
Then in world's above forever
Sweeter still thy truths shall be.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 5, 1995, p. 3]

TRAIN UP A CHILD

Prov. 22:6 is a familiar passage to most Christian parents. The word "train" is key to understanding this passage. Solomon did not say "Bring up a child," he said "train a child." There is much more to being a parent than providing for the basic necessities of life - there is the social, mental and spiritual training that God demands.

Our day has witnessed the abandonment of most parental responsibilities. The TV has become the developer of social values, the school system has taken over the educational role (including moral values), and the Sunday School has been given the responsibility of spiritual training. While I am not minimizing the usefulness of any of these avenues, Christian parents must realize that these responsibilities ultimately belong to parents. May I suggest several things parents can do to "train" a child in the way he should go.

First, give your children responsibilities and hold them accountable to them. Many parents would rather do things for their children instead of investing the time to "train" them to do for themselves. While in the beginning, holding our children accountable in certain areas may be time consuming, in the long run they will learn a valuable lesson in respecting authority.

Secondly, don't accept excuses for failure to follow through. We can always find someone else to blame for our mistakes if there is no one there to correct us. While in college, one of my professors had a favorite statement. When students would come in late to class, they would often say, "Well, better late than never." My teacher's response was classic. He would say, "No, better never late." Excuses were not acceptable. Let's teach our children that they are responsible for their behavior and actions. God didn't accept excuses in the Garden of Eden, and neither will He on the day of judgment.

Third, give your children room to make mistakes. The word "train" implies mistakes. I always appreciate those who wanted to help me do better as opposed to those who only wanted to point out my failures. Mistakes will either become walls which hinder our children or they will become bridges to greater growth. And generally parents are the ones who decide which it will be. Help your children to build bridges from their mistakes.

Finally, parents must be willing to model the kind of life-style they want their children to live. The old adage "I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day" is especially true as it pertains to training our children. God has blessed parents with a wonderful blessing, let's be faithful to the expectations of our Heavenly Father.
[by Leslie Chapman from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 21, 1995, p. 2]

ARE YOU "READY?"

When the Banquet Host of Luke 14 sent out his servants to call the guests to the feast, the message was "Come, all things are ready!"

That's exactly the message that you and I, as ministers of God's grace, are commissioned to deliver to the spiritually starved today. It's vital, however, that this message be a statement of fact, not just a quotation of scripture. As we invite a desperate world to feast on the Bread and Water of life, are "all things" really "ready"?

If we consider ourselves "waiters" at God's banquet, are WE ready to serve the needs of those invited, in the spirit of the Host? Do we share His affection for these poor guests, whom the world in contempt judges unworthy? Can we display His considerate tenderness toward them? Do we possess His unreserved, sacrificial commitment to them?

It doesn't take a lot of spiritual preparation to invite, or to promote; but if the needs of humanity are to be satisfied once they sit down to table, God's servants must be well-equipped, both in spirit and in practical skills of ministry.

God needs people who are motivated and prepared to serve. This preparation is called for in terms of hearts free of selfishness, pride, and bitterness, and insecurities which inhibit service. It especially demands hearts full of compassion; hearts open and eager to extend a loving welcome to all who come.

God is seeking teachers who are "apt to teach"...not just willing to control a class for an hour, but able to communicate the will and love of God by virtue of their own familiarity with the Word, and its fruit in their own lives.

Zeal will not substitute for knowledge, nor duty for compassion. In the business of serving, nothing will take the place of minds, hearts, and talents that have been properly prepared to serve.

The need is for Christians who know that they are saved sinners, and who, out of gratitude for their own salvation, are eager to prepare for sharing the mercy of God with those yet lost.

Are you ready?
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 12, 1995, p. 2-3 and July 30, 1995, p. 2]

A TROUBLED CONSCIENCE

Guilt and anxiety mar the happiness of so many people. We receive a lot of advice today on how to avoid these peace-disturbing feelings, yet many never manage to eliminate them.

In a majority of cases, however, neither the problem nor the solution is as complex as we suppose. The fact is that much of our dissatisfaction with self, and much of the foreboding we feel concerning the future is simply the result of willfully living out of harmony with what we know to be essential to the experience of inner peace.

When we deliberately reject the Abundant Life of security and service in Christ, the result is a troubled mind.

On this subject, Albert Barnes says,

"No man ever yet had a troubled conscience from the fact that he had embraced the gospel, and was an humble, dedicated Christian. Thousands and millions have had a troubled conscience from the fact that they have neglected it.

No man on his deathbed ever had a troubled conscience because he embraced religion too early in life. Thousands and millions have been troubled when they come to die because they rejected it so long, or rejected it altogether.

No man, when death approaches, has a troubled conscience because he has lived too much devoted to God the Savior, has been too active as a Christian. But oh, how many have been troubled then because they have been too worldly-minded and selfish and vain and proud!"

May God grant us the fundamental wisdom and the motivation to live a life of service and harmony with Him. We KNOW this is necessary to our personal satisfaction and peace of mind!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 19, 1995, p. 2 and Aug. 20, 1995 p. 2]

THE PREACHER'S TASK
(II Tim. 4:1-3)
Everyone likes for the preacher to say nice things. Most of us enjoy going home feeling good after a sermon. We don't particularly enjoy being made to feel guilty, corrected, or convicted of sin.

It's interesting, however, to note the Biblical "job description" for the preacher. The apostle Paul wrote I and II Timothy specifically to instruct Timothy and generally to instruct all evangelists in their ministry.

The heart of Paul's teaching is found in II Tim. 4:2 in the 3 terms which the apostle chooses to define what he means by the phrase "Preach the Word." Let's take them in reverse order. ENCOURAGE means "appeal to, urge, exhort, request, implore, entreat, comfort, cheer up."

REBUKE means "reprove, censure, speak seriously, warn, punish."

CORRECT means "bring to light, expose, set forth, expose someone's sins before the Lord, demonstrate, prove, convict or convince someone of something, point something out to someone, punish, discipline." (W.F. Arndt and F.W. Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament, 1957, pp. 622-23; 303; 248-249).

Maybe preaching isn't such as easy, pleasant, carefree task after all. Maybe the preacher's work is more like the surgeon's: to probe, to discover, and then to excise.
[by Jim Howard from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 19, 1995, p. 2-3]

ARE YOU A "CHURCH-WATCHER"?

I'm sure that we are all aware of a popular television commercial currently airing which promotes a popular game show. The commercial's song is the focus of the ad. Wheel of Fortune's "I'm a Wheel-Watcher" has many game show fans lip-synching its lyrics.

(John 4:23-24.) These two verses make an important point about worship. In today's church there are too many members too willing to just sit on the pew three hours a week.

"Church-Watchers," as these pew-sitters can be called, need to wake up and worship. In order to truly worship God we must worship him in spirit and in truth. We often hear of the importance of truthful worship, but maybe we don't hear enough about spiritual worship. Spiritual worship is being involved in the worship to the point of feeling the presence of God's spirit with us. Feeling his presence is done differently for different individuals. Some may get emotional (Remember there is nothing wrong with an emotional service). Many times when one comes forward there are others that get emotional. But, what about the Lord's Supper when we are reflecting on Christ's suffering and death for us; what about singing "I surrender all" or "I am mine no more" during worship? Would there be anything wrong with showing emotions then?

Each part of the service should be spiritual: the singing, the teaching and preaching, the praying, and the giving. The selection of songs and lessons and preparation to a teach or sing those selections is very important for each worship service.

Are you a "church-watcher" or do you leave each worship service feeling God's presence? God wants worship that includes His spirit. God is looking for those who feel His presence during every worship service, "...the Father is seeking such to worship Him." The difference is clearly the way one approaches worship.
[by Norman from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 26, 1995, p. 3-4]

THE GREAT TRIBULATION

"In this world you may have tribulation; be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." - Jesus.

Contrary to popular belief, the "great tribulation" of the Revelation letter isn't merely some distinct period of persecution. Revelation was written with a view toward the physical suffering of Christians, and many have suffered in that manner; yet persecution doesn't exhaust the meaning of "tribulation."

"Tribulation" describes the struggle that living as a child of God may be, whenever, wherever, or however it may occur. It's the conflict that comes into the life of every Christian because Satan wants our soul. It's every temptation to give up and turn away from God because of weariness, weakness, or the rebellion that is in us against what is best for us. "Tribulation" is whatever is within or without that opposes the realization of our spiritual goals.

It is not in us, humanly, to overcome the trials, temptations, loneliness, and disappointments that stand in the way of spiritual victory.

Nevertheless, Revelation tells of a "great multitude" who have come out of the great tribulation. Their "white" robes do not suggest that they have come through the conflict unmarked; no, their purity is the result of having been "washed in the blood of the Lamb." This is God's cleansing agent, the power through which frail, sinful humanity is presented victorious! Nor OUR victory, but HIS!

The ravages of tribulation are removed in forgiveness and restoration of fellowship with God in Jesus. In Him, even the trials designed to defeat us become the means of spiritual growth.

This victory, this overcoming, is for those who persist in depending on the power that is ours through Christ's victory. And persistence is the KEY to overcoming. It means that, however, disappointed, we DO NOT QUIT! However we may feel in behavior, we persist in depending on the blood that maintains our fellowship with God.

Let this be our assurance in any time of tribulation, whatever its form: "To him who overcomes, I will give the crown of life."
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 5, 1995, p. 2 and Sept. 3, 1995, p. 2]

SWEET WILL BE THE FLOWER

Without confidence in the love of God we can not cheerfully submit to His discipline.

Let not the morrow be as a thief to rob you of this day's blessing. We are apt to judge of things by present appearances: but the Lord sees them in all their consequence.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 5, 1995, p. 2]

In worship we sit at the feet of Jesus; to learn from Him to adore and praise Him and to prepare our minds and hearts to serve Him. Within the framework of our submission, He fulfills our every need! We're happy that you're a part of this experience today.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 12, 1995, p. 2]

IF ONLY YOU HAD BEEN THERE!

Jesus was some distance from Bethany when He received word that His close friend, Lazarus, was seriously ill. His journey was delayed, and when He finally arrived He found Mary and Martha grief-stricken.

In their crisis, these sisters had sent an urgent message to Jesus. They had such confidence in Him. They knew He had power over life and death. And He was their dear friend. Many times He had enjoyed the hospitality of their little home. They knew He would come.

But Jesus didn't come. We can appreciate their frustration as they said, "If only you had been here!"

Desperate need for the immediate presence of Jesus will surely arise in every human life...in times of sudden tragedy, temptations, and hard decisions. But it is no longer possible for anyone to say, "If only you had been here."

Jesus IS here! Never again will He be delayed until the emergency is past. In an instant, He is at the door of every home or heart that seeks His aid.

Therefore, if you find yourself facing your crises alone, it isn't because Jesus isn't there. It could be, however, that YOU "aren't there!" Where? Perhaps you aren't in close communion with God, in prayer and in His Word. Maybe you aren't confiding in Him, depending on Him. It could be that you don't share enough of His interests, His values, His purpose in the world, for real intimacy to be possible. Maybe lack of involvement in His family, in fellowship and worship, accounts for the distance between you...as it did for the Elder Brother.

In any case, Jesus is here! He's here to help you with your problems, to comfort you in your grief, to encourage you when reverses interfere with your plans, to provide strength equal to every challenge. It only remains for you to "practice the presence!"

If you must then deal with life alone, WHERE ARE YOU?
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 12, 1995, p. 3]

THANK GOD FOR FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN PARENTS

I was sitting at the kitchen table recently having breakfast on a bright fall morning. The sounds of "Good Morning America" came over the small black and white television, as they do every morning. This particular morning the story was very disturbing. Joan Lunden was interviewing a gentleman who had written a book about the most gruesome murder in Los Angeles history. It caught my attention and I began to watch. I was not prepared for what I was about to see. They began showing diagrams of two people - a husband and wife - who were gruesomely murdered in their own home as they sat and watched television. The diagrams showed each and every place where a bullet entered their bodies. There were seven in the face of the wife alone. In the days that followed, it would be labeled as a "mafia hit"; for no one else could murder so brutally. I know you are familiar with this story about the Menendez brothers. The two sons of this multimillionaire couple are now on trial for the murder of their parents. As the gentleman author spoke of the family, he mentioned four words over and over again. He said the defense would base their case on the "mental, emotional and sexual abuse" of the two boys by their parents. At that point my heart sank and I knew that my only action should be to drop to my knees and thank Almighty God for blessing me with faithful Christian parents.

In a world plagued with divorce, child-abuse, abortion, abandonment and gruesome brutality, the job of being a faithful Christian parent becomes a tremendous challenge. I wondered to myself, as I continued to watch the interview, how such circumstances and choices made could create a family whose end would be so brutal and unchangeable. There are some things one witnesses that promises to change our lives forever, it will change our thoughts and actions. This particular story has done just that. From that day, I pledged to begin and end each day thanking God for blessing me with faithful Christian parents.

(Eph. 6:4.) I grew up in a home where I never heard my mother and father yell at one another; furthermore. I never heard them exchange a cross word. My parents didn't drink alcohol, they didn't smoke drugs. Cursing was never heard and fighting was absolutely forbidden. Prayer began and ended each day: it preceded each meal and every aspect of our lives. Christ was the center of our home and God's word the standard by which we conducted our lives. I was taught by their words and their actions to love, respect and forgiveness. I was taught the importance of responsibility and commitment - to family and ultimately to the Lord's church.

You might say I had perfect parents. Yes, I did! They were and still are the most Christ-like individuals I know. I wouldn't change a single thing about the way I grew up!

As I was growing up, I watched them handle each and every situation and problem with dignity and love. I knew by the tears they shed and the prayers they prayed that these times were never easy, but as they lived out Phili. 4:13 before my very eyes, a little boy was learning what being a Christian was all about. Solomon said...(Prov. 22:6). Mom and dad, thank you for your Godly training that led me to become a faithful Christian and a preacher of the gospel of Jesus Christ. You will never know how much I love and respect you. Thank God for faithful Christian parents!
[by Mark N. Posey from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 19, 1995, p. 2-3]

IS IT A MARK OF MEDIOCRITY TO READ THE BIBLE?

In some circles of so-called higher learning it is considered a mark of inferior ability and attainments to read the Bible. Yet among the readers of the Bible, in all ages, have been some of the ablest leaders and most brilliant minds. Witness the following:

George Washington: It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.... He is worse than an infidel who does not read his Bible and acknowledge his obligation to God.

John Adams: The Bible is the best Book in the world.

Thomas Jefferson: I have always said and always will say that the studious perusal of the Sacred Volume will make better citizens, better fathers, better husbands.... The Bible makes the best people in the world.

John Quincy Adams: My custom is to read four or five chapters of the Bible every morning immediately after rising.... It seems to me the most suitable manner of beginning the day.... It is an invaluable and inexhaustible mine of knowledge and virtue.

Abraham Lincoln: I am profitably engaged in reading the Bible. Take all of this Book upon reason that you can, and the balance by faith, and you will live and die a better man.

Theodore Roosevelt: To every man who faces life with real desire to do his part in everything, I appeal for a study of the Bible.

Woodrow Wilson: I have a very simple thing to ask of you. I ask every man and woman in this audience that from this day on they will realize that part of the destiny of America lies in their daily perusal of this great Book.

Martin Luther: Holy Scripture is a sweet scented herb, and the more you rub it, the more it emits its fragrance.

John Wesley: O give me that Book! At any price, give me that Book of God. Here is knowledge enough for me. Let me be a man of one Book.

Sir Isaac Newton: I find more sure marks of authenticity in the Bible than in any profane history whatever.

William Penn: The scriptures contain a declaration of the mind and will of God.... They ought also to be read, believed, and fulfilled in our day. We accept them as the words of God himself.

William Wilberforce: Let no religious book take its place. People do not read the Bible enough.

Benjamin Franklin: Cultivate an acquaintance with and a firm belief in the Holy Scriptures. This is your certain interest.

Daniel Webster: From the time that, at my mother's feet or on my father's knee, I first learned to lisp the verses from the sacred writings, they have been my daily study and vigilant contemplation.

William Gladstone: I have known ninety-five great men of the world in my time, and of these, eighty-seven were all followers of the Bible.

John Wanamaker: I cannot too greatly emphasize the importance and value of Bible study - more important than ever before in these days of uncertainties, when men and women are apt to decide questions from the standpoint of expediency rather than upon the eternal principles laid down by God himself.

Douglas MacArthur: Believe me, sir, never a night goes by, be I ever so tired, but I read the Word of God before I go to bed.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 26, 1995, p. 2]

THE TRUTH HURTS...

A noted psychologist was asked to give reasons why so many people fail to make life successful. He gave these. We will be miserable if we are guilty of:

1. Finding fault with others, but never seeing our own.
2. Doing as little as possible and trying to get as much as possible for doing it.
3. Spending much time in showing up the other fellow's weak points, and too little time correcting our own.
4. Slandering those we do not like.
5. Procrastination - putting off until tomorrow what should have been done day before yesterday.
6. Deceit - talking friendly to the other fellow's face and stabbing him in the back as he turns.
7. False belief that we are smart enough to reap a harvest of pay before sowing a crop of service.
8. Disloyalty to those who have trusted us.
9. Egotism - the belief that we know it all, and no man can tell us anything.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 26, 1995, p. 3]

JESUS CHRIST OUR HOPE

John the Baptist was surprised when Jesus asked to be baptised. Why? Jesus identification with man and sin. This was his mission "He was numbered with the transgressors..." This was the "narrow path" and Satan offered him the other alternatives, but Jesus prefers the will of God. (Luke 4:1-2) The disciples thought him their revolutionary but Jesus teaches them "Blessed are the meek, the gentle, the peacemakers." Jesus bewilders his followers by calming a storm, by forgiving sin and feeding 5000 people. Surely he will now inaugurate a powerful overthrow of the Romans, but Jesus escapes into a lonely place for prayer.

Jesus knows the bliss of the transfiguration (Mark 9:3-4) only a small transition to the other, but he decides to press on down the mountain and on to Jerusalem. He finds his disciples arguing over who is the greatest Jesus takes a small child and says "He who is least is the greater." When Jesus reveals his impending death (Mark 8:31-33) Peter stands in His way only to be rebuked. Peter offers him a sword, but Jesus says No, I could call legions of angels if needed. Jesus resolutely sets his face toward Jerusalem exclaiming that he must die. Why? The Son of man came not to be served, but to serve and give his life for a ransom.

Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, peaceful and meek. Has our messiah arrived, shout the Jews? Jesus takes his disciples aside, breaks some bread, saying "This is my body given for you." Then taking the cup, "This represents the blood of the New Covenant". Jesus enters a final stage of prayer (Luke 22:44-45) then out of sheer love and courage, decides. The soldiers come. Jesus stops his disciples from fighting, saying, "the scripture must be fulfilled" (Matt. 26:47-54). What "must" be fulfilled Jesus? His death the means by which man is to be reconciled to God. Sin separated man from God, the consequence being death. Jesus will take that penalty upon himself. He is to absorb the fullness of God's wrath on sin. In other words, Jesus is to stand in our place, as a substitute.

It is a costly sacrifice, Jesus knew no sin, out of sheer love for His Father and man he voluntarily offered himself to bear all the consequences of our sin. What's more, God takes the initiative, He gives His Son Jesus. His judgement falls on the Son so that we can escape eternal separation. The conquering of sin also necessitates victory over death. (Acts 2:22-24, 32, 36) Jesus is raised to live forever. He now offers the benefit to His death and resurrection to mankind.

What is our hope in an otherwise meaningless world - just to live for death? Our hope, our assurance, lies on Jesus Christ. He determines our destiny by our relation to Him (John 3:16-18) and will come again only to confirm what we have already chosen. Jesus Christ is our ethic. His self sacrifice acts as the norm for living. Jesus says "Love others as I have loved you." That love is expressed fully in his death. His victory over death is our victory, hope, goal, and sustenance now, if only we will accept his free offer in continuing faithfulness (Acts 2:36-38).
[by Steve Caldwell from The Capital Letter, vol. 15, no. 18, 8 May 1983, p. 1]

THUS SAITH THE LORD (Jer. 23:16)

Our only sure and perfect guide to all matters concerning our salvation is the infallible word of God. If we depart from it we are led astray. Human reason, "inner light", "visions", "Christian consciousness", are not safe guides in matters of the soul.

Rejecting the authority of the Bible, some make human reason the authority in matters of faith and practice. They look upon the Bible as a human record, containing truth and myth - the truth to be determined by the authority of reason. Men sit in judgement upon the contents of the Bible and reject whatever conflicts with their thoughts and prejudices. They approach the Bible with set opinions and thoughts then, as through a coloured glass, look at scripture and give it the colour of their opinions. Not, "Thus saith the Lord," but "reason prompts me to believe," is their standard. The Word must bow before reason and thus has no more authority than that which the human mind sees fit to give it.

The doctrines of the Christian religion are revealed by God in his word. These doctrines are not to be deduced by reason and cannot be demonstrated by reason. The things of the Spirit cannot like facts of mathematics or science, be grasped by the mind. (I Cor. 2:14; II Cor. 10:5)

May God always help us to take our reason captive and live by faith in Jesus.
[from The Outreach, 30 April 1983, p. 1]

Our world which in all recorded history has known only 19 years of peace. And yet this is a world in which men "fight for peace". This is a world in which no one has not fallen into the snare of Satan and yet all have been offered the gift of salvation. This is a world in which "counterfeit" faiths are many but their existence implies the existence of the true faith. To the Romans the cross was merely a gallows - to use the symbol of salvation. Christ's death and resurrection is nonsense to the unbeliever. For us it is salvation and power in God.
[by Peter Whitlock from The Outreach, 30 April 1983, p. 1]

Fully realise the hope which God has given us. Eph. 1:18 and many other scriptures encouraging us to rejoice, as Paul himself did, in everything! The hope, which all Christians share, is unconquerable. It should be nourished by our conversation with each other. God has prepared unimaginable blessings for us. Truly we have reason for joy abounding.

A wonderfully uplifting exercise which we could all undertake would be to use those spare few minutes that we all have from time to time to search the letters of the Apostles for their references to hope. If such a habit does not make us joyful Christians we just are not reading them right!
[from Terry Schaeffer from The Outreach, 30 April 1983, p. 1]

MASTERY OF INNER SPACE

It is ironical that in a time in which man has ventured into outer space that so few have conquered inner space and attained mastery of the self. One of the traits that God is cultivating in this people is self-control. The Spirit controlled person is also a self-controlled person (Gal. 5:23). Paul preached "righteousness, self-control and the judgement to come" to Felix while he was in prison (Acts 24:25). One of the marks of a mature Christian suitable to be a leader in the church is control of self (Titus 1:8). Peter in one of his letters commands us to add to our faith self-control, if we are not to be useless or unfruitful (II Pet. 1:6-8). How often the flaw in some Christians' characters is lack of self-control. They are full of faith, they show an abundance of knowledge, they have an upright and virtuous character, but lack in self-control. Self-control may be one of the most difficult of the Christian graces to cultivate in our lives. It certainly goes against the grain of the natural way of life.

Why is self-control a part of the Christian way of life? Jesus teaches us to live for God not for ourselves. Man's full purpose is to recognise God as his Lord and Master and to seek to live in accordance with His will. It is only then that a person finds true peace, joy and fulfilment in life. When a man lives for himself he finds only frustration and disappointment. Jesus, living as the perfect man, the second Adam, had one ambition; "not my will but your will be done". He stands as our example in self-control, teaching us to deny ourselves daily and carry our cross (Luke 9:23). We cannot serve two masters; it is either God or self. If God is to be our Master then self must be controlled. Self-control means being able to turn away from anything which, though desirable and pleasureable, is contrary to the will of God. Self-control means learning how to submit to God's law and acknowledging it as holy and just. Self-control means not giving place to the flesh, considering yourself dead to sin and alive unto God (Rom. 6:11; Rom. 13:14).

But self-control is not only going without, but also exercising self-control so that the rest of the fruits of the Spirit are produced in our lives. How can we "rejoice in the Lord always" without self-control? How can we pray without ceasing without self-control? How can we show hospitality without complaint without self-control? How can we fervantly love one another without self-control? We need self-control so that our minds dwell on what is noble and praiseworthy and not on what is negative and discouraging? Self-control enables us to exult in hope even in the midst of tribulation. Self-control is exercising the faith that God is able to be trusted even when the circumstances would seem to tell us otherwise.

Without self-control we will never have the stability or the endurance of the one who puts his hand to the plough and never looks back. May we desire so much to be doing the will of God that we will exercise greater and greater self-control in our lives.
[by Terry Schaeffer from the Greerton Bulletin, p. 1]

(Rom. 10:17)
Faith is kindled in the heart by the Word of God, the gospel of Christ. For this is the power of God unto salvation. It is the means by which the Holy Spirit regenerates the heart or in other words, by which He awakens and kindles faith.

If we acknowledges this fact, as we must, let us not fail to make the right use of the divine word. To work faith in us the Word must be heard by us. This includes the reading of the Word. Like the Jews of Berea we should receive the Word with great eagerness, examining the scriptures daily." (Acts 17:11) There is no excuse for not reading the Word of truth and life. But we must also hear it. When it is preached. The command to preach it comes from Christ. Hence it is His will that it should be heard. He Himself preached - men heard and were saved. If we grow careless in this we should realise that we are depriving ourselves of the very means by which faith comes.

Faith comes by hearing. It is nourished, increased and maintained by the hearing of the Word. We are reminded of God's grace - we learn to know the manifold wisdom of God, revealed in the Lord's word for our salvation. By it faith comes and faith saves.
[from The Outreach, May 1983, p. 1]

Being filled with the Holy Spirit. (Eph. 5:18).
The Christian receives the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 12:13).
The Christian cannot live without it. (I Cor. 6:19; Eph. 4:4-5).
We should always give thanks and be subject to one another and live as God would have us live - not seeking a mystical experience - which claims some individuals or special relationship with God - but to do as He would have us do, submitting to one another in love. We must empty ourselves of selfishness in order to make room for the Spirit and be Spirit-filled people and give thanks to God for what He has given us to do.
[by Terry Schaeffer from The Outreach, May 1983, p. 1]

GROWING UP INTO CHRISTLIKENESS: DEDICATION

In Eph. 4:14 the apostle Paul tells us that we are not to remain as spiritual children but are to grow up to spiritual maturity. In Eph. 4:15 he explains the goal of our growth.

And so we see the life of Christ as...(I Pet. 2:21). Our life to Christ must be characterized by a realization that...(I John 2:6)

An outstanding characteristic of Jesus' life was His dedication. Even as a youth He felt a compulsion, an urgency, an absolute necessity to be in His Father's house, about His Father's business, literally - in the things of His Father. (Luke 2:41-49.)

Yes even as a youth it wasn't - I ought to be - I want to be or even one day I will be.

But I must NOW be about the things of God.

There are too for us who would follow His example of dedication, things of God, spiritual duties and responsibilities that must be faced and attended to - that make other matters fade into insignificance. Which have we filled our life with?

Yet even setting a proper direction for our lives, choosing proper priorities even at an early age does not exclude us from the consequences that arise because of that choice. We know from our own experience that verbal commitments are easy and that lip service costs little - but Christ had dedicated His very life's energy towards fulfilling the will of the Father. And whenever such a dedication is made by anybody there will be a price tag, a cost that cannot be bypassed. It was true of Christ and will be of us also. In Matt. 16:21-23 Jesus explained the necessity of His death. Peter makes a seemingly noble statement, "God forbid it Lord. This shall never happen to you."

Peter was unaware of the price tag of dedication and it was for Christ to cost His life. And WHENEVER we are faced with the cost of dedication and CHOOSE not to pay - we can kid ourselves but we fall under the same condemnation given to Peter of setting our mind on the interests of man instead of the things of God.

Towards the very end of Jesus' life we see the bottom line definition of dedication. (Luke 22:39-44.) Jesus had a preference - remove this cup of suffering - He didn't want to die, but there was no other way to secure our salvation. He expressed His dedication by taking His preference - His will and submitted it to the Father's. Dedication is a willingness to put self to one side and getting on with what God would have us to do. Yes this is one aspect of His life we are called to imitate.
[by Mark Willis from Mangere bulletin, p. 1]

NO TIME

I knelt to pray, but not for long, I had too much to do.
Must hurry off and get to work, for bills would soon be due.
And so I said a hurried prayer, jumped up from off my knees;
My Christian duty now was done, my soul could be at ease.
All through the day I had not time, to speak a word of cheer.
No time to speak of Christ to friends, they'd laugh at me, I feared.
No time, no time, too much to do - that was my constant cry;
No time to give to those in need, at last 'twas time to die.
And when before the Lord I came, I stood with downcast eyes.
Within His hands He held a Book, it was the Book of Life.
God looked into His Book and said, "Your name I cannot find,
I once was going to write it down, but never found the time.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, May 1983]

SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL

A mother of four little ones finally got them to bed one evening and returned wearily to the den to see an encyclopedia open on the floor with a page torn out. As she get the Scotch tape and stooped to repair the damage, the act seemed to epitomize the whole of her life - forever picking up after children.

"Am I wasting my existence in pointless drudgery?" she wondered. At the moment it seemed so.

She pieced the torn fragments together and noticed they were the picture of a child's face. When she had taped them back together, she turned the page over, and there was a map of the world. As she was putting together the countenance of a little child, she was affecting the shape of the world.

For who hath despised the day of small things? (Zech. 4:10)

The prophet of God is saying, "Small is beautiful". The virtue of smallness has a strange ring in our "supermarket" society. But many are seriously examining a "think-small" policy. Corporations are studying the small-scale unit. Over-developed nations are beginning undevelopment programs. Bigger is not necessarily better.

One evening in June, 1945, 100,000 people gathered in the Los Angeles Coliseum. They had come together to honor the men from their city who had died in World War II. A mock battle showed the helplessness of the human individual. An uneasy silence filled the great coliseum. Then the master of ceremonies spoke:

"Perhaps you sometimes say to yourself, 'My job isn't important because it's such a little job.' But you are wrong. The most obscure person can be very important. Let me show you want I mean."

He ordered the lights turned off. There was total darkness. Then he struck a match, and in the darkness the flickering flame could be seen by the multitude.

"Now you can see the importance of one little light," he said. "Suppose we all strike a light."

Suddenly across the vast stadium, thousands of pinpoints of light brightened the summer night. The darkness had been penetrated by one little light. It was illuminated by thousands.

You are important. The world will be a little better or worse because of you. You really count.

You are needed. See the value of one small step. You cannot do everything, but you can do something.

And, if your thinking has become oversized with the cult of biggest, John Ruskin pointed out that "He who can take no interest in what is small will take false interest in what is great."

Jesus said...(Matt. 6:26). Small things, bright and beautiful, the Lord made us all. (Phili. 2:15).
[by Jimmy Moffett from 20th Century Christian, p. 18-19]

"JUST SAY THE WORD AND MY SERVANT WILL BE HEALED"

The Centurion had a strong, undoubting faith. He would surely have been very happy to have had Jesus as a guest in his home. But because of his faith he knew that this would not be necessary. Therefore he was willing to forgo this great privilege and pleasure.

His faith was considerate. He did not want to trouble Jesus.

"Only speak the word." His faith relied upon the power of Jesus, upon the power of His almighty word. His faith triumphed. His faith was vindicated. Jesus fulfilled his wish. His servant was healed that self same hour.

Jesus marvelled at this faith and said to His followers, "Truly I have not found such great faith with anyone in Israel."

Let us emulate this faith. We dare not depend upon our feelings in the matter of faith. If we did we would be building on ourselves. We must have something better - something stronger - something more substantial.

The example of the Centurion is for us to follow - that we may learn to place our faith only on the sure and infallible word of our Saviour. Though we may be tempted to seek more we must learn to stand firmly upon the revealed truth and say, "Thus saith the Lord - thus it is written."

The word, Christ's word, God's word - that is it. Building on Jesus and God's word we have a sure foundation of faith. Such a faith will always be victorious, triumphant.
[from The Outreach, 23 April 1983, p. 1]

The need for diligence in the Christian life - it must be applied to the graces in order to achieve spiritual growth. The Hebrew writer says...(Heb. 6:11). If we are not diligent then we are not applying the Christian message and not living purposefully. The Christian's greatest danger is negligence. We can become indifferent to our moral and spiritual responsibilities and fail to see life's greatest meaning. We should be fully aware of earthly life's brevity but of the immortality of the soul.
[by Errol Sharp from The Outreach, 23 April 1983, p. 1]

The scripture says we are saved now, but it is possible to fall from grace. (Eph. 2:8-9). The true relationship of faith, works and love is given in the phrase "faith working through love" (Gal. 5:6; I John 3:14.) Faith is the great primary essential, demonstrating its reality by work through the motive of love. Here is the test for the person seeking salvation - Jesus said...(Mark 16:16) and Peter said...(Acts 2:38) and Paul said...(Rom. 6:4). Do you have real faith in Christ? If so, you will gladly obey these commandments because you love him.
[from Christchurch bulletin]

INFERIORITY (Rom. 12; I Cor. 12)

Inferiority is unfortunately an extremely common feeling found in people of all ages, from all walks of life. Little wonder really, when you stop and think about it. After all, there are some really good reasons why people feel inferior.

Take basic growing up. At some time in practically every normal person's life they've been told "You're not old enough." "You're not mature enough," and (the most encouraging of all), "You're not intelligent enough," said to them.

So, as we, the normal person, move unintelligently, immaturely, forward in life, who should pop up, but Mr. and Miss Perfect, you know, the ones who are always doing all the things you've always wanted to do, only with about a hundred times more finesse, not to mention the glorious partners that accompany them through their highly social life.

Meanwhile, we're stuck at home watching ever more perfection on our trusty television, we console ourselves with the thought that they probably starve themselves half to death, never even come close to the nicer, more fattening food of life, and more than likely jazzercise three nights a week to keep themselves in such terrific shape.

The impossible goals of the world bring us to the sad conclusion that we are indeed inferior. And we're absolutely right, we probably are inferior, but are the world's goal worth the time and effort anyway?

A famous man once wrote, "Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God remould your minds from within so that you will learn from your own experience how His ways will really satisfy you, will meet all God's demands, and will move you forward towards the goal of true maturity."

"Don't harbour exagerated ideas of yourself or your importance but try to have a sane estimate of your capabilities, measuring your value in the light of the faith God has given to you all." He went on to say that we aren't all the same, and what one is good at, another may not be.

So, when faced with inferiority, try to determine if you are or are not inferior, and if you don't be too hard on yourself, accept your limitations and maybe channel your energies to another field.
[from Christchurch bulletin, p. 1]

INFLUENCE

If someone should decide today
To say the words he hears you say;
To do the deeds he sees you do,
To live exactly like you.
If he chose you to be his guide,
If he walked daily by your side,
Would he live as a Christian should,
And go about doing good?
Could he see the Christ in you?
And would it be an image true?
Never distorted nor dim,
That there's no mistaking Him?
Be very sure you lead aright,
Watch and pray by day and night.
You may lift one up where angels dwell,
Or drag him down to the depths of hell!
[by Willette McGuire]

Standing up and being an example for Christ in the world. To be an example for Christ, we must imitate Christ and show the world that Christ is the way, the truth and the life. Christ showed genuine love when he died on the cross. Remember, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do". Christ portrayed God, so he had given us the example of God; let us strive for this. (Col. 3:12-17) To learn more about love. (Gal. 5:22) To know the qualities Christ had; we should have these qualities if we hope to be an example in the world.
[from Christchurch bulletin]

CONCERNING FAITH (Heb. 11:39; Gen. 4; Josh. 2; Heb. 11:1-2) Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for...knowledge is no good to us if it doesn't show in our lives. We don't grow through just knowing the Christ, but being a mimic of Christ; living that knowledge, using what God has given us in our lives through faith in the Word.
[from Christchurch bulletin]

DID GOD ANSWER PAUL'S PRAYER? (II Cor. 12:7-9)

Paul, despite his nobility of character and his fidelity to the Lord, was but a man, and therefore susceptible of being "exalted over much" by his unique experience. To prevent this, he was given "a thorn in the flesh" to buffet him, in order that he might not succumb to the temptation to exalt himself improperly.

So great was the agony which he suffered from this painful disorder, that three times he implored the Lord to deliver him from it. But, because a greater blessing would be Paul's with the thorn, than without it, the Lord did not comply with Paul's prayers, and did for Paul that which was God's wish...it was according to "God's Will" that Paul's request was not granted.

What God did for Paul was to empower the apostle with strength enabling him to cope successfully not only with this problem, but with any comparable one.

Further, this demonstrated the fact that the cause of Christ does not depend, for its success, on the strength of "any man," including the great apostle, but is actually advanced when there is a complete awareness of "weakness"... since this emphasizes total dependence on God.

Paul himself recognises this when he says...(II Cor. 12:9-10).

Convinced that the "will of God" was being done to him, Paul gladly bore the burden of pain, persecution, facing death, being beaten. His consciousness of weakness served only to provide occasion for the strength of the Lord to be exercised in him.

So...it is not always the way we want our prayers answered...but that which is "according to the will of God".
[from Christchurch bulletin, Mar. 27 1983, p. 1]

THE MARKS OF CARING

While Christians in general admire the pilgrim spirit of Abraham, too many of us display the Lot-like tendency toward settling down to make the most of life's comforts and securities.

The most serious threat posed by affluence, however, is not that body-comforts pamper and give us too much personal pleasure. The greater danger lies in the fact that "pursuit of happiness" so often produces a self-centered perspective of life that destroys compassion and dulls sensitivity toward the needs and misfortunes of others.

As a result, someone has suggested that we have modern disciples of Christ who find it possible to "picnic on the slopes of Calvary while the Savior bleeds and dies for the sins of the world." With the screams and sighs of suffering humanity ringing in their ears, professed followers of the compassionate Jesus sometimes demonstrate a remarkable capacity for detachment and non-involvement.

Thank God, however, that there are still those who CARE! In the most pleasure-oriented age the world has known, at a time when humanistic teaching assures that it is not only a right, but even a duty to "look out for number one," there are still those who manage to maintain a sacrificial sense of responsibility; putting caring and serving above self-gratification!

Of course, caring is costly. In some way, caring always leaves marks and scars. Caring wounded the hands and side and heart of Jesus. It ripped the flesh from the back of Paul. Caring exhausts the energies of him who would go the second mile. It depletes the material resources of him who would minister to a fallen comrade on the Jericho Road.

Yet, caring is a virtue which lifts the quality of life to a truly satisfying level. Prior to the destruction of Jerusalem, God sent out his messenger to place a mark on certain people. Only those who CARED were marked, and only those who were marked were saved from the destruction that followed.

At the end of life's day, whether we have cared enough to serve at the expense of personal pain will be a major factor in determining both our sense of fulfillment and our eternal destiny.
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 16, 1995, p. 2]

SADNESS, BUT NOT DESPAIR

Tears rolled down her cheeks as she turned to see who was coming into her husband's hospital room. These were tears of sadness as she sat alone by her husband's bed. Tears of sadness, yes, but not despair. What is the difference? There was sadness because of physical pain, sadness because of loneliness, sadness because of ones own inability to help a loved one's physical condition.

There was no despair because she knew she had hope in Christ Jesus. Hope for a new body, hope for being reunited with that loved one. There was an overriding trust in the fact that God is in control of all things and that He will keep His promises.

We have all experienced sadness and loss. How do we feel, do we still hope? Do we despair when we face these things? Paul talks about suffering physical things. In II Cor. 4:8 he said he faced things that were difficult to understand but he did not despair. Physical problems should not concern us to the point where we despair and give up. We won't need to despair if we trust God's promises.

The man's wife found comfort in his life. The burden she faces will be made lighter because of the life he has lived and the promises Jesus has made to those who love Him.

What about you and me? When it comes our time to leave this life, can our loved ones find comfort in our lives? We all need to prepare our lives for that time, not only for our own benefit but because of our loved ones who will be left behind. Will we leave our loved ones with hope or despair? We say we love our families. If this is true then we will live our life so that when we die we will not add despair to sadness.

When we are prepared for the life to come we will leave our saddened loved ones with hope but not despair.
[by Jim Lenoir from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 16, 1995, p. 2-3]

FIVE "P's" OF SUCCESS

Once during a gospel meeting I was holding, I visited a very successful pro-football coach in his office. My surprise at his huge office immediately gave way to the many academic degrees which were hanging over the left wall. High school, college, university, a doctorate, honorary degrees and recognitions of all kinds were hanging there. Impressive indeed!

On the right wall, you could see a kaleidoscope of color and action, jubilant and triumphant: Pictures of all kinds representing victories of years gone by - athletic triumphs which had made the blood of millions of spectators, mixed with the adrenaline of frenzied delirium, shake the very ground of the state where the game was played; pictures of proud hand shaking, smiles, and traditional water dousing, microphones, cameras!!!

And then, on the wall behind the impressive desk, right above his credenza, there were hanging alone Five Black Eyed Peas, enclosed in a beautiful golden picture frame. My wonderment immediately captured his attention. He said to me, "Mike, my success as a football coach is owed to these fives peas." He anticipated my perplexity and continued explaining. These five peas stand for Prior Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. I left his office knowing I had received a valuable lesson for my own life and for my efforts for the Kingdom, as at that time I was a young upstart preacher.

Really, what is there in life in which we can succeed, unless we have prior preparation? We stay in the school room for twelve years, then we go on to college or university. The higher degrees of learning and special scientific vocations will require extra time of preparation. Really, what is there of worth and value that does not require prior preparation? Success arriving at a predetermined point of achievement, the realization of our worthy dreams - these and many more come to us only because of prior preparation. Success favors only the mind which is prepared! Very few are the people who were lucky to be born with silver spoons sticking out of their mouths. For the rest of us, what chance of success do we really have in this highly competitive and strenuously demanding world, unless we make prior preparation?

I've had these five P's of success hanging on the wall of my office, but I have added one more Pea. This sixth one I have called Perseverance! For I have found out, at least for myself, that no matter how much prior preparation I have, I often falter and fail. Therefore, I have to persevere.

I read that Sir Edmund Hilary, the man who first conquered Mount Everest, the first time he tried was rewarded by dismal failure. In spite of his failure, the Queen of England, in a gala and festive occasion, knighted Mr. Hillary. In fact, the people present gave the daring mountain climber a standing ovation. When it was quiet again, he turned his back to the audience, and looking at the beautiful picture of Mount Everest hanging on the wall, solumnly said: "Mr. Everest, you have defeated me once and you might defeat me again. But I am coming again and again, and I am going to win, because you cannot get any bigger, Mr. Everest, and I can." The rest is history!

And of course, what's true of life's worthy achievements is also true of the spiritual realm. In one of the books of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament, there is tucked in a small but very powerful verse...(Amos 4:12). In our protracted efforts to prepare ourselves properly to become achievers in this life, let us not make the tragic mistake of failing to adequately prepare ourselves to meet our God, for meeting Him we shall.
[by Mike Sinapiades from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 23, 1995, p. 2-3]

CHRISTIAN MOTHERHOOD

Young women sometimes approach motherhood more romantically than realistically. Older women tend to remember the experience sentimentally. Somewhere in between, all who take it seriously discover that no greater responsibility have been bestowed upon humankind than those involved in motherhood.

It calls for the most unselfish kind of dedication. It requires the exercise of all the virtues. As a vocation, Christian motherhood is the most demanding, and the most fulfilling; the most joyful, and the most heart-breaking; the highest opportunity, and the most sober responsibility a Christian woman can accept. And while accepting so ambitious a calling, Christian mothers of today are often characterized by their shallow sisters as being void of ambition!

Motherhood is a unique experience of life; an experience reserved for women only. It's a holy challenge which should never be accepted by any who consider it degrading or restricting. For those who look upon motherhood as a sacred trust, there are rewards which make this one of life's truly fulfilling adventures. Whatever the heartaches and disappointments, her children still "rise up and call her blessed."

Contemporary philosophy may regard motherhood a position of inferiority, but God clearly holds it in high esteem. Clovis Chappell remarks that we can be confident that the most deserved "well done" on the Day of Judgment will be conferred upon those noble women who have seen motherhood as their supreme opportunity to influence human destiny.
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 23, 1995, p. 3-4]

WHY ME, MOM?

I went to a party, mom,
I remembered what you said,
You told me not to drink, mom,
So I drank Coke instead.
I felt really proud inside, mom,
The way you said I would.
I didn't drink and drive, mom,
Even though others said I should.
I know I did the right thing, mom,
I know you're always right.
Now the party is finally ending, mom
As everyone drives out of sight.
As I got into my car, mom,
I knew I'd get home in one piece,
Because of the way you raised me, mom,
So responsible and sweet.
I started driving away, mom,
But as I pulled onto the road,
The other car didn't see me, mom,
And it hit me like a load.
As I lie here on the pavement, mom,
I hear the policeman say,
The other guy is drunk, mom,
And now I'm the one who'll pay.
I'm lying here dying mom,
I wish you'd get here soon.
How come this happened to me, mom?
My life bursts like a balloon.
There is blood all around me, mom,
Most of it is mine.
I hear the paramedic say, mom,
I'll die in a very short time.
I just wanted to tell you mom,
I swear I didn't drink.
It was the others mom,
The others didn't think.
He didn't know where he was going, mom,
He was at the same party as I,
The only difference is, mom,
He drank and I will die.
Why do people drink, mom?
It can ruin your whole life.
I'm feeling sharp pains now, mom,
Pains just like a knife.
The guy who hit me is walking, mom,
I don't think that is fair,
I'm lying here dying mom,
While all he can do is stare.
Tell my brother not to cry, mom,
Tell daddy to be brave.
And when I get to heaven, mom,
Write "daddy's girl" on my grave.
Someone should have told him, mom,
Not to drink and drive.
If only they would have taken time, mom,
I would still be alive.
My breath is getting shorter, mom,
I'm becoming very scared.
Please don't cry for me, mom,
Because when I needed you,
You were always there.
I have one last question, mom,
Before I say good-bye,
I didn't ever drink, mom,
So why am I to die?
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 30, 1995, p. 2]

WEDNESDAY EVENING SERVICES

We are sorry to acknowledge the recent passing of Wednesday Evening Services. After a lengthy illness, he died at the congregation located on the corner of Ho-hum Avenue and Neglect Blvd. Wednesday Evening, at one time, enjoyed great appreciation and influence within the church. In recent years, however, he has failed in vitality due to chronic knee-stiffness and cooling of the heart. Wednesday's last words were something about the absence of loved ones during his long and painful condition.

Post-mortem examination revealed a serious deficiency of spiritual nutrition, lack of love for Christ and His church, chronic contagious selfishness and an abnormally high concentration of excuses. Remaining members of the Services family now question the competence of Dr. I Don't Care in the treatment of Wednesday's condition.

Those who arrived too late to be with Wednesday are being asked by the family to spend some time with his sister, Sunday Evening. Unfortunately, she is now suffering symptoms similar to those of Wednesday. Hopefully, she can be saved from such an unnecessary fate.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 30, 1995, p. 2-3]

A PLEA FOR LIFE

You don't know me yet;
We haven't even met.
Please think it over and give it a try.
I'm too little and too young to die.
I've got a whole life ahead of me;
Just get a glimpse of my face and you'll see.
Don't throw my life away
Because of a mistake you made one day.
Why are you trying to hurt me so bad?
Can't I at least meet my dad?
I want a life and a family too.
Don't you understand what you're putting me through?
I only want to see the light of day,
So please don't decide to abort me away.
[by Amanda Varner from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, May 7, 1995, p. 3]

THE GOD WHO CARES

Gods created by the imagination of men are often characterized by a need for human service and appeasement. Their control over human life is exercised in the form of threat; they are reverenced out of fear.

The God who created man possesses power which far transcends that attributed to any imaginary god. His power, however, is best expressed in the greatness of His love for His creation.

In spite of the vast differences between ourselves and God, He is "mindful of man." And this mindfulness is not condescending interest, but a loving concern which is both personal and practical.

He can be touched by our infirmity. His heart is moved with compassion for sheep lost and without a shepherd. He is patient with the prodigal who foolishly steps over into the far country. After we have dimmed all the virtues, He still calls us home. He remembers all the forgotten, purposeless men who stand idle in the marketplace of life. He invites them into elevating pursuits which reveal the true potential of lives the world has discarded as worthless.

All this is extended, not to those who deserve it, but to those who don't. In Christ, God has demonstrated His eagerness to press marred humanity to His breast, to love, and to comfort. His greatest power is displayed in that He can take twisted bits of human wreckage into His hands and mold them into the image of His own Son.

Jesus teaches us that God is here to serve, not to be served. His loving concern for us has been expressed at tremendous expense.

And the response He seeks from us is not appeasement, but simply to be loved in return.
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, May 21, 1995, p. 2]

THE CHRISTIAN BATTLE (Eph. 6:16)

Paul in this verse conveys the picture of a Roman battle. The soldiers shield was very large, often about 4 foot in length, covered with a fire-proof metal lining. This was necessary in order to quench the flaming missiles of the enemy. These were arrows, soaked in some inflammable substance, ignited and hurled in the direction of the soldier. If one of these arrows should happen to penetrate, it would burst into flame yet more and burn some portion of the soldier's body and so render him inactive.

These arrows were thrown at the enemy in great profusion from all conceivable directions so as to cause confusion. in modern warfare the parallel would be preliminary bombing to prepare for the advance of infantry.

Paul is not embarrassed to plainly state that we have an enemy - the evil one - who hurls flaming missiles at the Christian. The Christian is involved in a spiritual battle (Eph. 6:2) with a personal intelligence and power. He prowls about like a roaring lion (I Pet. 5:8). Christians must not think of evil as something abstract. The whole teaching of the Bible is that evil is manipulated and propagated by the "Great Liar" himself. It is part of his strategy to prevent our understanding that he is the cause and is involved. As there are lulls on the battle-field, man is deceived into thinking that "all is well"; I am safe, secure, rich, - nothing can touch me!

Then a barrage of "flaming missiles" will decend. These missiles aimed at the Christian especially can take any form, no matter how subtle!

Satan will hurl accusations at you. You have sinned and are no longer forgiven! God has left you! You are condemned, guilty and still in bondage. Satan loves to incite fear (Rom. 8:15). Fear of failure, the Christian walk is too hard, a burden, you cannot make it, you are on your own - no one accepts you - forget about this Christian business. Satan will get you to look at yourself and chase you into introspection. He doesn't want you looking outward to behold God's salvation. He will tempt you to "doubt" your sonship, your salvation, in order to smash assurance.

All of us have temperaments - they don't change at baptism. Satan knows how he can use your temperament to enhance worry and induce anxiety. If you are prone to worry then be wary of being controlled by it. As we wake into consciouness each morning it is Satan's best chance. You're not thinking, you're open to control. Yesterday's today's and tomorrow's plans converge on you, controlling and drowning you so that peace, vision and prayer are destroyed. Satan delights in causing division, personality clashes and disharmony. He will get you to dwell incessantly on a wrongly spoken word until it becomes cancerous, a storm in your mind clouding out reality. His flaming missiles are aimed at inciting judgemental, unaccepting attitudes admidst the congregation. He will do anything to get your mind off Jesus Christ.

Satan hurls doubts at us. He will ensure that false pre-suppositions are taken into our vision of God, narrowing our focus so that we control God, placing limitations on his power. The whole education system is aimed at squeezing out any notion of spiritual reality - how can we cope against this force? Our God is too small and we end up saying with the boy's father in Mark 9:22.... Satan's powerful missiles include distractions causing us to forget and fail to apply our faith. The disciples during the storm "had faith" but "where was it" when the chips were down. (Luke 8:22-25). As Peter begins to sink (Matt. 14:30) so the church will sink and stagnate without personal, active faith in Jesus Christ. Satan's attacks are always aimed at ruining the creation of God, and inhibiting the creative power of His word, Jesus Christ.

These attacks can be dealt with and there is only one way to deal with them. We must take up and use the shield of faith. This is active. It must become habitual. We must foresee the onslaught and be ready to meet those flaming missiles from all directions. You must be mobile and agile, catching the missiles in your shield. Caught in this way by your shield you will not need to extricate them from the joints of the armour and so save yourself much trouble. What is this shield? Active faith. (I John 5:4) A faith that things, considers and does not be dormant as with the disciples in the storm (Luke 8:22-25). How does this faith act as a shield? It beholds Jesus, it points to its object. It is outward looking. As the Israelites were taught to "look onto" the bronze serpert (Num. 21:9) in order to escape death, Christians are to focus their vision upon Jesus Christ and Him crucified (John 3:14-17). Even if faith is as small as a mustard seed, its power lies in the object to which it is directed. (Luke 17:5-6) The secret of Abraham (Rom. 4:18-21) was that his faith led him to God and God's character and promises, and he relied on them. Even when circumstances seemed impossible for the fulfillment of God's promises, he gave glory to God (Rom. 4:20). God reminded him; as he reminds us, "Fear not Abram: I am thy Shield" (Gen. 15:1). The Christian's task is to discover the faithfulness of God by viewing God's action and salvation revealed in the Bible.

Faith, our shield, listens to the word. If God is for us, who is against us? Who can condemn us? Jesus has won the victory over Satan. There is now no condemnation for the Christian. Sins power to bring death has been destroyed. Jesus Christ died and was raised. He overcame and we have total victory in Him. Faith beholds Him sitting at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us. He knows our needs, he became man to identify with us, to sympathise with us, to take our place and therefore the judgement of God. The Christian is free from the wrath of God and is a child (Rom. 8:15-17) filled with the Holy Spirit bearing witness to Christ's eternal presence. Jesus is able to come to us (as He came to Peter) Matt. 4:14-27, in our time of need and strengthen us (Heb. 4:14-16).

The shield of faith beholds God's proven love - Jesus Christ. It means that you link yourself in your mind and thought to Him who has all power and through Him we overwhelmingly conquer (Rom. 8:37).

May God enable us to understand this teaching, and to implement it, whenever the enemy comes in his malignity and hurls his fiery darts at us.
[by Steve Caldwell from The Capital Letter, vol. 15, no. 13, 3 April 1983, p. 1-2]

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