GOOD-BYE

A father on his death bed called his sons. They gathered around him and to one of them he said, "Goodnight, son". Then to the other son he said, "Good-bye, Son."

The second boy noticed the difference and asked his father, "Father, why did you say "goodnight" to John and say "Good-bye" to me?"

The dear old man who loved both of them replied, "Son, John is a Christian and I will meet in the morning of eternity. So, it is just "goodnight" to him. But, you son, are not a Christian. I will never meet you again unless you change. It is "good-bye", son, throughout all eternity."
[from Savannah Ga. bulletin]

BE SURE YOU'RE WEARING THE RIGHT SHOES

Whose shoes would you like to be in...
..Adam's, the one who gave up perfection to seek a selfish goal?
..The ones who melted the gold to form a golden calf while the law was delivered to Moses? (they were slain)
..Herod's, who had all infant males killed hoping to destroy Jesus?
..The scribes or Pharisees who followed Jesus only to ridicule and destroy good?
..The one who drove the spikes through the hands and feet of our Lord?

How would you like to be in the shoes of...
..Paul, who saw the error of his way and gave his life to Christ. He died a victor.
..Peter, who matured in his faith to such a high level that went from denial to proclamation.
..Timothy, who as a young man, learned to follow and teach Christ.
..The Christians at Smyrna who heed the exhortation of Christ to be faithful unto death.

With all the examples we look to, it doesn't change the fact that we must stand in our own shoes. We cannot be judged by another's life and we can thank our Lord for that. We will stand or fall based upon who we are and what we do.
[from Savannah Ga. bulletin]

WILL GOD HEAR AND ANSWER AN ALIEN SINNER'S PRAYER?

Will God hear and answer an alien sinner's prayer for what? Forgiveness? Sonship? Eternal life? No. These blessings, and all others needed by an alien sinner (one who has never obeyed the gospel), are promised on conditions other than prayer (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Rom. 6:3-4; Rom. 10:9-10). Forgiveness is available only in Christ (Eph. 1:7; II Tim. 2:10; II Cor. 5:17; Gal. 3:26-27). To be "in Christ," one must have believed the gospel, have repented, have confessed faith in Christ. One becomes a member of the family of God, by being "born again" (John 3:3-5). The "new birth" is the equivalent of being saved; and is obtained by being born of water and the Spirit. Since things equal to the same thing are equal to each other, it follows that to be born of water and the Spirit is to obey the gospel. It is an abomination in God's sight for one to pray for pardon contrary to his will (James 4:3; Prov. 28:9).

(1) Every blessing needed by an alien sinner is obtained on specified conditions, not including prayer. In no instance, in the scriptures, is an alien sinner instructed to pray for salvation; in no instance is such a sinner promised salvation on the condition of prayer.

(2) Saul of Tarsus is the only clear-cut case we have in the New Testament of an alien sinner praying for forgiveness; and, when Ananias, a gospel preacher, contacted him by divine direction, he immediately terminated Saul's effort to obtain salvation in this way, and instructed him in what his duty was...(Acts 22:16).

(3) Our Lord does not intercede with the Father at the throne of God for alien sinners. (Heb. 7:25) To draw near to God is to come to him in humble and unquestioning obedience to his commands.

(4) God is not the Father of alien sinners. He is the creator of all men, but he is the Father only of his children; and, only those who are in his family are his children (I Tim. 3:14-15). How can an alien sinner lift his eyes heavenward and say, "My Father in heaven...?" His father is not in heaven (John 8:44; I John 3:10).

The man whose eyes the Lord opened, said...(John 9:31). It is often alleged that this passage has no bearing on the question of whether God hears and answers prayers of alien sinners on the grounds that (a) he who utters these words was not an inspired man: and (b) the remark was made about Jews who were not aliens at that time at all. Though the man was not inspired, he gave utterance to truth which is inspired and often stated in the scriptures. He said, "We know..." The truth he uttered was accepted and recognized by all religious teachers of that day. Why? Because it is repeatedly taught in the Old Testament scriptures: (Psa. 34:15-16; Psa. 66:18; Prov. 15:20). The blind man's statement went unchallenged because it was true. The Jews, though not aliens, in the accepted sense of the word, were unwilling to comply with the conditions obligatory upon them and were thus in the position of an alien who prays for salvation instead of rendering obedience to the conditions of salvation.

Ananias gave the only proper answer to praying aliens (Acts 22:16).
[from Hamilton Herald]

CHRISTIAN MATURITY (Col. 1:28)

In making every effort to identify with the church of the Bible we usually centre these efforts on making sure that our doctrine is based purely on God's Word. While this is good and right we sometimes overlook the apostolic priority manifested by Paul and the others. Paul continued in Col. 1:29 to say how he laboured and strove. What was his goal? To make sure that every Christian developed to full maturity. The N.A.S.V. translates Telios (Col. 1:28) as "complete". The word literally means, something brought to its full and, finished, wanting nothing necessary to completeness, perfect, full grown or mature. And this concern for maturity and working to bring about the same was not a responsibility limited to the apostleship. In Eph. 4:11-15 Paul states that God has provided evangelists and teaching elders for the very purpose of equipping Christians for the work of service. This process continues toward the goal of Christlikeness - He is our standard.

Now lets not think that growth or maturity is optional - the "EVERY" of Col. 1:28 is inclusive of both you and me.

The Hebrew writer rebukes those who should have reached a point of maturity but they were still "babes" (Heb. 5:11-14). Whereas they should have been teachers they still needed to be taught "again" the basic principles of God's Word. Do you begin to see the consequence of failure on the part of many to reach spiritual maturity? The price the churches pay is lack of teachers, preachers and elders. Far too often the evangelist is forced to be a spiritual "babysitter" rather than concentrating on training the membership to serve (Eph. 4:12).

God help us to understand that there is a difference between old age and maturity. The Bible tells us to grow up don't just grow old. This growth, maturity neither comes naturally or easily. It will require self examination (II Cor. 13:5), and healthy appetite for God's word (I Pet. 2:2), and a determination to practice these principles in our lives (II Pet. 1:5-10; Heb. 5:14).
[by Mark Willis from Mangere Bulletin]

CLOSE THE GATE BEHIND YOU

A father and his son were walking through the pasture where cattle were grazing. The son, in his haste to keep up with his father, did not completely close the gate. The father walked back and carefully closed the gate and used the occasion to teach his son a valuable lesson. He said, "Son, close every gate through which you have passed." There are good lessons here.

1. We have no right to leave a gate open that we have found closed. It does not belong to us. The owner has closed this gate for a purpose. It may be troublesome to us to close it but we must leave it as we found it. This is true with God's will. We can't open gates that He has closed. Neither can we close gates that He has opened (Rev. 3:7). Some, in their generosity, want the gate opened for any and all to pass through. Jesus said...(John 3:5).

2. We need to close the gate to our past. This does not mean that we cannot remember fields that we walked through; it does mean that we cannot go back. It is a dangerous and destructive thing for all who try to go back. For many, the days of youth are passed; close the gate. We need to close the gate to our failures and mistakes that we cannot undo. We need to close the gate on our successes. We might gloat over them. We need to press on to new things. (Eccl. 7:10; Luke 24:5).

3. We must close the gate to the future. Many are worried, troubled, and depressed, because they are trying to read the future. They can't enjoy their present walk because they fear that which lies ahead. (Psa. 23:4; I Pet. 5:7).
[by Bob Plunket from Central Auckland Bulletin, Mar. 1983]

USTER BE'S

"I uster B a member of the church, but so and so happened and I quit."

How many times have we heard someone say this?

When I consider this I'm reminded of the Lord's questions, "Will ye also go away?" which He asked of the other disciples. We need to think about the answer which Peter gave...(John 6:68).

Today, there are those who are turning their backs on the church. "We believe in Jesus, but we reject the church." To reject the church, is to reject Jesus. The church is His body. (Col. 1:18-24) Christ is the head of the church (Eph. 1:22-23). It is impossible to turn against the body and not the head.

Another thing we need to consider is that one cannot accept the Lord and reject His word and His law. The words spoken by the Lord are spirit and life. There is no hope of eternal life if one refuses to accept the words of the Lord.

They make us free (John 8:32); sanctify (John 17:17); they save (I Pet. 1:18-25).

The third thing we need to consider is that we cannot let other people dictate to us how we feel and "drive" us away from the church. By doing this we are letting God down; we are letting the church down; we are letting our family down and we are letting ourselves down and giving Satan the victory.

The church is a complete institution. We dare not organise any other to do its work. Those who do these things have departed from the Lord and need to consider the question, "To whom shall we go?"
[by Keith Wagner from Whangarei Bulletin, Mar. 1983]

WHAT WOULD THIS CHURCH BE IF EVERY MEMBER WERE JUST LIKE ME?

Would the sick be called upon? Would the lost be visited? Would the services be attended? Would the classes be listened to? Would the sermons be heeded? Would the offering increase or decrease? Would prayers be uttered daily? Would the Bible be studied and read? Would the visitors be greeted? Would gossip spread or cease? Would evangelism wane or reign? Would the church have to "close up shop"? Brethren, think on these things.
[from Savannah bulletin]

LITTLE THINKING

A little boy had just finished off all the cookies in the kitchen. His mother came in and seeing the empty jar and crumbs, asked "Son, who ate the cookes?" The thoughtful little lad replied with a smile, "one of Jesus' little lambs."
[from Savannah bulletin]

HORRORS!

There is considerable attention focused upon the protestors to nuclear energy by the news media. Personally, I believe most of their fears are unfounded. I have a few questions every American would do well to consider on this subject:

What if 40-50 people were killed every day by a malfunctioning nuclear plant?
What if that malfunctioning plant seriously injured 1,500 others every day?
What if the presence of nuclear plants drove 8-20 people to commit suicide every day?
What if nuclear energy caused 200 broken homes every day?
What if it caused 250 people suffer permanent brain damage every day, besides the other injuries already described?
What if it caused 125 parents to abuse their children or to assault other loved ones every day?
What if it caused 5-6 billion dollars direct damage and inestimable indirect damage every year?
Now, if you will just double every figure I have quoted, you will have a partial picture of the effects of beverage alcohol!
Where are the protestors?
[from Savannah bulletin]

ALCOHOL ABUSE

The most overly abused drug in our society is alcohol. This drug, like some others, is socially accepted. This one of the things that makes this matter so bad. Young people and others are led to believe that "it's the thing to do," "Everybody's doing it."

Intoxication by alcohol leads to more traffic accidents and fatalities each year than any other single cause. The abuse of the drug fills our mental institutions, and untold numbers of families are rendered dysfunctional by it.
[from Savannah bulletin]

HE MISSED ONE SERVICE!

Paul Harvey recently reported on his Noon News about a 73 year old man who was pinned beneath his farm tractor for four days and nights in driving rain and a terrible storm. Concerned friends went to see about him just in time. It seems that he's going to live despite this ordeal, but he will lose a leg below the knee.

Several newspapers have picked up on this little story and have centered upon the amazing fact that a 73 year old could live after being pinned beneath a tractor in such weather for four days. That is amazing...but how about the rest of the story!

What perhaps is even more amazing is why his friends bothered to check on him at all. One friend gave as the reason for the visit - "He missed prayer meeting Wednesday night."

That's all? Yes. He just missed one service and his friends went to check on him.
[by Bob Buchanan from Savannah bulletin]

THE FACE ON THE DOOR

You've surely heard about it by now. Most of you have likely seen pictures of it in the newspaper or on the evening news. Most everybody refers to it as "the face on the door."

The furor started a while back when a man outside the surgery room at Walker County Medical Center in Jasper, Alabama was praying for the recovery of his critically ill son. The man saw a face on the door. He said he knew then that his son would be all right.

Some of the hospital's employees say the vague image has always been on the door; others say no. Some say it is Jesus; others say it's not the Lord - but is the face of somebody. One lady says it is a sure "sign of the end."

Maybe I'm too inclined to bah-humbug things like this. If there is a face on the door, how would anybody know it was that of Jesus? Nobody knows what he looked like! For me, the alleged face has little form - beyond two dark spots in the wood's grain which could be perceived (with generous imagination supplied) as eyes. Below that, there is little that can be called a "face."

The whole episode reminds those who know it of a poem by William Hurd Hillyer which is entitled "My Master's Face."

No pictured likeness of my Lord have I;
He carved no record of His ministry
On wood or stone.
He left no sculptured tomb nor parchment dim,
But trusted for all memory of Him
Men's hearts alone.
Who sees the face but sees in part; who reads
The spirit which it hides, sees all; he needs no more. Thy grace,
Thy life in my life, Lord, give Thou to me;
And then, in truth, I may forever see
My Master's face!

Whatever is (or isn't) on the door in Jasper, you can see the real Jesus through the Holy Scriptures. You can see his compassion, tenderness, and sympathy. You can witness his prayerfulness and full surrender to the will of the Father.

What is more, you can also allow Jesus to be seen in you. As you come to be filled with his presence and power, it is no longer you who live but Christ who is living in you (Gal. 2:20). As others see Christ in you, they will be drawn to him.

The Christ of scripture who shows himself to all through his redeemed people is real - not an etherial face on a door!
[by Rubel Shelly from Ashwood Leaves, p. 2]

THINK ABOUT IT

Too often in the past we have been asked not to preach about or give too much notice to the drinking of alcohol. It has been deemed to be a personal matter of moderation or nobody else's business as long as the drinker hurt no one else. The following scriptures have been largely ignored or rationalized.
(Eph. 4:18; I Cor. 6:10)
To ignore these scriptures may, for some, be relatively easy but think on the following facts:

1. 59% of all traffic fatalities are alcohol related. 37% of all suicides are alcohol related. 86% of all homocides are alcohol related. (National Institute of Alcohol Abuse)
2. Drunk drivers kill 27,500 people annually and injure another 700,000. (National Institute of Alcohol Abuse)
3. "Drunk driving is a national epidemic. It has become a socially accepted form of murder. More Americans have died at the hands of drunk drivers the past 2 years than were killed in Vietnam. About 3 Americans are killed and 80 are injured by drunk drivers every hour of every day in this country." (Newsweek, Sept. 13, 1982)
4. Alcoholism resulted in an approximate $60 billion loss nationwide in 1980. This includes loss in production of goods and services, health and medical costs, motor vehicle accidents, losses caused by violent crime, social welfare costs and fire losses.

These facts are startling and are cause for grave concern. They point up the very clear fact that the Creator knew what He was talking about when he tells us that drunkenness is harmful to men and displeasing to Him. Somehow it makes it very hard to dismiss the above scriptures. We dare not treat this problem with the typical nonchalance of the past.

But someone says how about the single social drink or drinking in moderation? The answer - who needs it when the risks to life and soul are so great.

Think about it. It could save you.
[from Savannah bulletin]

A LITTLE HUMOR WITH A POINT

A small boy came hurridly down the street and stopped in front of a stranger. "Have you lost a dollar bill?" the boy asked. "Yes, yes. I believe I have!" said the man, feeling his pockets. "Have you found one?"

"Oh, no, I just wanted to find out how many have been lost today. Yours makes fifty-five."
[from Savannah bulletin]

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT!

Our Roman Catholic friends teach that baptism is for the remission of sins. (They consider pouring water on infants for the "adamic" or "original" sin to be baptism.) Our Protestant friends teach that baptism is a command of Jesus and if a person refuses baptism, it is a sign that he is not saved. (Their position is - If you are saved, you will be baptized.)

Our Catholic friends teach, without equivocation, that baptism is for the remission of sins. Our Protestant friends, whether they realize it or not, are "perilously" close to teaching the same thing. Yet, the church of Christ is criticized for teaching exactly as the Bible does - that baptism is for adult believers; its mode is immersion, and it is in order to receive the forgiveness of sins. (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:37; Gal. 3:27; I Pet. 3:21, etc.) Why? Our Protestant friends won't get rid of baptism. (If it has nothing to do with salvation, why not quit fooling with it?) Our Roman Catholic friends can't get rid of baptism. (How could they rid their infants of "original" sins if they did?) But, the church of Christ is considered legalistic for teaching the pure, Biblical truth on the subject. If consistency were a jewel, human being would have to be satisfied with a coal bin.
[by Gordon Smith from Savannah bulletin]

COURAGE IN DANGER!

A storm swept the ocean off the coast of Scotland. Far out in the black trough of the angry waters, a ship had gone to pieces. The life-boat set out from the shore in the face of what seemed almost certain disaster...but it came back with all the ship's crew except one. To have taken another it would have meant the sinking of the boat. As they came to the shore the leader said, "There's another man! We need volunteers for his rescue. These men are exhausted."

Among those stepping forward was a fine young Scotchman in the very prime of his life. His white-haired mother came and put her arms around him and said, "Don't go, John." Years ago your father perished in a storm at sea. You know that just last year your brother, William, went to sea and never came back. So, I guess that he, too, must have gone down. John, you are the only one left, and if you perish, too, what would I do? Don't go, son, your mother begs you to stay."

John very gently removed her arms from around his neck and said, "Mother, I must go. A man is in peril and I would feel a coward not to go. God will take care of us."

He kissed her cheek and sprang into the boat. The fury of the storm increased and the elements to vie. Down into the trough and up over the waves they went. A whole hour they were gone...and finally, in dim outline they were seen beating their way back to shore. As they came within hailing distance, someone from the shore cried, "Have you found the man?"

And, standing in the bow of the boat, John shouted back, "Yes, we've saved him...and tell my dear mother that it's brother William!"
[from Savannah bulletin]

GOD QUESTIONABLE AS AN AUTHOR

"He had only one major publication. It was in Hebrew. It had no references. It wasn't published in a refereed journal. Many doubt he wrote it himself. If he created the world, what has he done since then? The scientific community has had a hard time replicating his results. He never applied to the ethics board for permission to use human subjects. When one experiment went awry he covered it up by massive human genocide, killing by drowning all humanity bar Noah's family. When subjects didn't behave as predicted, he deleted them from the sample. He rarely came to class, just told students to read the book. Some say he had his son teach the class. He expelled his first two students from seeking knowledge. Although there were only 10 requirements, most students failed his tests. His office hours were infrequent and usually held on a mountain top." [from NZ Humanist, Mar. 1993]

To maintain a healthy spiritual life, the following is needed:
1. A life of prayer, I Thes. 5:17.
2. Daily Bible reading, I Pet. 2:2.
3. Group Bible study, I Thes. 5:11.
4. Worship regularly, Heb. 10:24-25.

THE WORD WAS UNTO ME THE JOY AND REJOICING OF MINE HEART (Jer. 15:16)

With conversion, by which we become new creatures come new likes and dislikes. What we previously avoided we now love and seek.

Our delight now is in the reading and meditation upon God's word. In it we find joy and rejoicing.

What eye has not seen nor ear heard, neither has entered into our hearts is now revealed to us as we search the word of God. In it is revealed His love for us, His plan of redemption. His forgiveness His strength for living a life that is pleasing to Him and which embodies the certain hope of heaven.

It is true that the created world offers many joys and delights. The glory of the sun and of the stars, the mountain and bush, the rivers and beaches, the incomparable daintiness of tender flowers, the song of birds. But all these speak of the glory of God who has revealed Himself even more fully to us in the Bible. Creation proclaims the wisdom and power of God, but in His word He has made known to us the purpose of creation. We are told of the honoured place we have been given in creation.

The truth of scripture alone removes all doubt and fears from our hearts. It assures us that we though fallen and straying, are still loved by God. It alone teaches us that we are but temporary dwellers here and that heaven is our home.

However, although we have such a certain hope and although God has given us such a wonderful place to live in meanwhile, our physical existence includes trials. Patience is necessary for Christian growth - moral courage is indispensable to faith.

One who does not have the courage to face trouble will hardly have the patience to "see it through".

As we try to preach the gospel patience is necessary with those who find it hard to accept that they are loved by God. (James 1:2-3). We must have trustful acceptance and patience in God's planning.
[from Dunedin bulletin, Dec. 1982]

Joe Barnett has written an article entitled "Needed." He writes, "In 1823 the Ashanti Tribe of West Africa declared war against the British Crown. The rebels struck quickly, defeating the British troops, killing the governor of the colony and nearly all his officers.

"This stirred the anger of the Britons, and they prepared for a counter-attack. In launching the campaign, a commander announced to his regiment that men were needed for the hazardous undertaking. It was no mission for the faint-hearted; it might mean death. But it was an important mission, urgently requested by their king. The officer shouted, 'Every man who cares to volunteer step forward one pace.' Snapping about again he was amazed and angered to find the entire line unbroken. 'Will no one offer to serve the king?' he bellowed. One soldier cautiously replied: 'Begging your pardon, sir, but the whole regiment has volunteered!' With such loyalty the British attacked and totally defeated the Ashantis in 1826.

"All the Lord's work is done by volunteers. The Lord of hosts has never drafted a soldier. Only those who are loyal enough to volunteer can serve.

"Our Lord seeks the courageous. Every mission is daring if faith adds to it the dimension which should be there. Seeming victories may be won without the demands of faith. But the victories which please the Lord must be those which call for daring."

Not only are volunteers needed in the church on a universal scale, they are also needed on a local scale. When there is a job to do, there are always enough volunteers to see it through. These volunteers are to be commended for their loyalty to the cause of Christ. May God bless the work.
[by Wayne Kindall from Sycamore Chapel bulletin]

THE GOSPEL

Mark 16:15; Acts 20:24; Rom. 1:1; Rom. 1:9; Rom. 1:16; Rom. 10:15; II Cor. 4:4; Eph. 1:13.
[from The Truth in Love]

CHRIST'S CONTINUOUS MISSION

Christians everywhere should be working for the Lord to the best of their God-given abilities all the time. It is every Christian's responsibility to work hard at preparing themselves, with whatever talents they have, for the saving and teaching of lost souls for Jesus Christ.

Just imagine how the cause for Christ would advance if all Christians really applied themselves continuously to Christ's mission.

Be in regular Bible study. Be in a regular prayer period. Be a joyous singer of praises to the Lord. Be a learner to be a teacher or preacher. Be in every service of the church. Christ is! Be a constant encourager of your brethren. Be a scripturally-informed guide for the enquirers. Be a cheerful welcomer of the visitors. Be so busy for the Lord that you have no time to be a busy-body. Be a generous giver of time and money to the Lord. Be a hospitable host to strangers. Be involved in good works for the needy.
[from The Truth in Love]

SET FREE FOR FREEDOM

This week America celebrates its independence as a nation. This celebration, however, is not merely of freedom from foreign rule; it has the deeper meaning of gratitude for the positive blessings such liberty has made possible.

No less is true of our SPIRITUAL freedom in Christ. We are indeed grateful for the release from bondage that freedom means...the release from bondage to guilt and self-condemnation, and release from our self-destructive tendencies.

But Paul declares that we have been set free "for" freedom. We have been liberated with a view toward enjoying the positive benefits of liberty. We have been set free "from" the restraints of a sin-controlled life IN ORDER THAT we might discover our potentials. We have been set free to experience that which we are capable of when unhindered by the guilt, fear, and selfish ambition that stands in the way of human fulfillment.

We are free to enjoy relationships in a way impossible when we were dominated by the self-seeking ways of our former life. Because we live in fellowship with a God who will "supply your every need according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus," we are free to USE material things, instead of being used by them.

With regard to our national freedoms, we have often been warned that the easiest way to lose that which we have gained is to neglect it. The same is certainly so regarding spiritual freedom. To fail to be active in the exercise of love, joy, and peace is to invite the rule of strife and conflict. Protect your freedom! Participate in life daily with the attitudes and actions that are the working tools of Christian liberty. The fruit of the spirit is not designed merely for emergency situations. Utilize compassion, kindness, generosity...so that these qualities serve us both as functional skills of a free life, and as observable symbols of the liberty that is ours in Christ!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, July 2, 1995, p. 2]

FOR SALE

One cross. Nearly new. I cannot carry it and keep up with the world and its crowd.
One pound. New, except barely shelfworn. It has been laid away for yours in a napkin.
One five-piece set of armor. All pieces in good shape; only need polishing.
One bundle of Christian opportunities. Contained in this bundle are some of the greatest opportunities in the world...attending all services of the church, winning souls to Christ, and working in the Lord's vineyard, I seldom use these opportunities, so have decided to let them go for sale.
One badly-used Christian influence. Buyer may be able to repair this influence if carefully handled.
One seat in the Bible classes at the church - Perfect condition except dusty...AND ONE SOUL, LUKEWARM AND CARELESS.
The above mentioned articles are stored in the basement of my home, located on the corner or Careless Avenue and Neglected Street.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, July 2, 1995, p. 2]

A CHRISTIAN ATTITUDE

Just to be tender, just to be true;
Just to be glad the whole day through;
Just to be merciful, just to be mild;
Just to be trusting, as a child;
Just to be gentle, kind and sweet;
Just to be helpful with willing feet;
Just to be cheery when things go wrong;
Just to drive sadness away with a song;
Whether the hour is dark or bright,
Just to be loyal to God and right;
Just to believe that God knows best,
Just in His providence ever to rest;
Just to let LOVE be our daily key -
That is God's will, for YOU and ME.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, July 2, 1995, p. 3]

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

Social Security, IRA's, Savings Bonds are all forms of investment for the future. Most people look forward to a time when they can retire and "enjoy" life. We, therefore, start early investing for the future so that when the time comes, we will not be found lacking. What is true of our retirement is also true of our children. Unless we start investing in our children, the future may be found lacking.

All too often I hear of children who have gone astray. Sons and daughters who have become an embarrassment to their parents. Moms and dads who spend many a sleepless night because of children who grow up and make a mess of their lives. What can we do to prevent such heartache?

First, there are certain things we CANNOT do. We cannot control our kids for the rest of their lives. In their late teens we watch them leave with a hope that they will remember everything we have taught them. But their lives are the result of their own decisions and as parents we must accept those decisions. Secondly, we cannot force them to serve God. Christianity is an individual decision. I cannot obey God for my children nor can they for me. While parents may long for an erring child to return to God, prayer and godly examples are about all they can eventually do. But was must never underestimate the power of prayer and godly examples.

We can, however, do certain things that will give our children the best possible chance for succeeding in both this life and the life to come. We do so by investing in their future while they are still children. (1) We can make sure that they are at the church building for every service of the family of God. (2) We can give them the opportunities to grow spiritually by providing such things as Bible Camps, Lads To Leaders, Campaigns, Retreats and good wholesome fun. (3) Parents can take seriously God's command to bring their children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Each year churches spend a large sum of its budget on our young people. Some might see this as a waste of time and money. I see it as an investment in the future. If our time, effort and money will keep one home from being devastated by divorce, one child from making an unwise decision in picking a mate, one young person from ruining his life with alcohol and drugs, all of our efforts will have been worth it. And we have not mentioned the positive possibilities of developing strong Christian homes, gospel preachers, wives of preachers and elders, and godly examples to the world.

When I look at all our young people are involved in, I think "Oh, how I wished I could have had those opportunities!" Let's continue to invest in our young people. It will be the best investments we ever make.
[by Leslie Chapman from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, July 16, 1995, p. 2]

Several months ago, our neighbors, an elderly couple, were showing me the different kinds of plants they had in their yard and house. Many were types that I had never seen before and had unusual names. The most intriguing plant was what they called the "feeling plant." It had leaves like a mimosa tree, although on a much smaller scale. I asked why it was called a "feeling plant." They said, "Watch." The woman gently touched the leaves of the plant. What happened next is hard to describe. The leaves of the plant folded closed, and the stems holding the leaves dropped straight down to the pot. It looked like the plant had died!

I'm sure I had a shocked look on my face because they both laughed. "It's called a feeling plant because it gets its feelings hurt so easily," she explained with a smile. She emphasized the point by taking another pot with a feeling plant in it and gently tapping the pot on the porch. Again, the plant wilted and sagged. "After about an hour it will perk back up again." She then gave me a little seedling as a gift.

That was my first encounter with a plant that could get its feelings hurt. I wish I could say the same about my encounters with people. There are some people who are just like that feeling plant; the slightest vibration will cause them to be hurt and cry, "Foul!" And you never can tell what might cause people's feelings to get hurt. One couple misses a few Sundays without anyone calling them to see why, and they get their feelings hurt: "Nobody up there cares!" Another person misses a few Sundays and receives a card in the mail from the church noting his absence was noticed and he gets his feelings hurt: "I'll be there when I want to!"

One gets her feelings hurt if you announce she has been in the hospital, while another gets hers hurt if you don't.

I have been amazed at times at what would hurt someone's feelings. With some people, you become afraid to say anything to them because you know it's going to be wrong.

It says something about people's spiritual and emotional health if they are always getting their feelings hurt. It's indicative of a selfish, self-centered attitude that "the world revolves around me and everyone should cater to me." You expect that attitude from a four-year-old, but not from an adult.

Paul said that when he became a man, he put away childish things. It would be good for us not to carry our feelings on our sleeves, getting offended at every turn. It's detrimental to our spiritual and physical health.
[by David Johnson from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, August 20, 1995, p. 2-3]

AMERICA'S GUTTER MOUTH

I have never heard Howard Stern, the radio personality, but he was fined $600,000 in December 1992 by the Federal Communication's Commission for indecent language. He must have said some horrible things to have received such a fine because everywhere you go these days you hear profane, gutter, barnyard language, yet he is the only one I know of who has been required to pay money for his filthy speech.

If we can get $600,000 out of one man, I believe that we could erase our national debt by Sunday if we would only slap a tax on profanity for everyone. Why not? We are already familiar with "sin" taxes on tobacco and alcohol.

Our state legislation recently passed a tax on soda pop and chocolate. So why should Sprite, and Hershey be classified as worse sinners than profanity or cussing?

We wouldn't have to raise all of the money from dock-workers, coaches, or comedians. I've heard some first graders we could make a mint from. I tell you the possibilities are endless even if we exempted the sailors.

We could tax the videos that people rent for their VCRs. So much tax for every filthy word that is spoken. The more profanity, the more tax. I tell you, it would be a gold mine.

We could have the phone companies collect money for every dirty word spoken, and double the tax rate on those calls which are interestate. And overseas calls - well, who knows how much we could charge for these?

After we pay off the national debt, clean up the environment, build new highways and bridges, construct new school buildings, provide health care for everyone, and increase Social Security payments, it would be time for school to be out. P.S. The Christian, of course, would be exempt from this tax because he follows the injunction of Eph. 4:29.
[by John Gipson from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Sept. 3, 1995, p. 2-3]

ARE YOU HAPPY?

Not many people are, you know. Not really. And if you aren't a happy person, just what would it take to change you?

Maybe financial security? A more meaningful vocation? How about loyal friends or guaranteed good health? The respect of your peers? Perhaps a stable, supportive marriage would make you happy...or children whose lifestyle reflects the way you tried to raise them. How about being stranded on a desert island with Bo Derek...or with Robert Redford, as the case may be?

Sorry, but none of the above can be guaranteed. Besides, a man named Solomon tried all that, a long time ago. His conclusion? "All is vanity, and a striving after wind." Disillusionment.

Jesus tells us that the only security of life is the assurance that "your life is hid with Christ in God." He says that life's greatest joy is knowing that your name is written in heaven. He says that stability is knowing that "all things work for the good" of those who put their trust in Him.

Jesus says that the way to save your life is to lose it; that true fulfillment is to be found in service. Jesus tells us that happiness is in YOU...not in your circumstances, not in your possessions, not in your friends or family...but in your values, your priorities, your commitments, and in the security of present and eternal fellowship with God.

Sounds a little strange to me...and risky, too. But in view of my own track record, and that of those I know, who am I to argue with the experience of the most powerful, most radiant, most victorious lives of all history?
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Sept. 10, 1995, p. 2]

I HAVE DONE THE BEST I COULD

One time a man was dying, and the one who cared for him rose from the bed, and said tenderly, "I have done the best I could!" A finer saying than that never came from the lips of a mortal.

How much better the world would be if in every act, every word, every thought, we could truthfully say, "I have done the best I could!" We would be better men and women, we would be better friends, we would be better servants of Christ if we threw ourselves completely into the business of doing our best in every situation.

Let's take the case of the one who nursed the dying man: First of all, she loved him. We could accomplish so much more if we opened our hearts to let them be filled with love for our fellowmen. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." And Jesus said, "A new covenant I leave with you, that ye love one another." Jesus knew his disciples could not go far into the trials of life unless they had the shock absorbers of life for each other all around them, for the moment love was replaced by jealousy, enmities and strife, there would be confusion and every vile deed.

Again, the nurse of the dying man practiced the golden role. "Do unto others as you would want them to do" became a part of her nature as she followed orders, observed routines and respected needs. No thought of herself made her shirk her duty, or neglect the interests of the one who depended on her. How often we are blind and selfish in our attitudes towards those that need us! A cool word that should have been a warm word chills another's enthusiasm! A light word that ought to have been a serious word shakes another's good resolution! We forget the dignity of another human being...forget his needs and his yearnings, and even his abilities...and we put our own selfish interests in the foreground. And the one who depends on us suffers because of our blindness, our neglect.

And it may well be noted that the nurse of the dying man stayed with him as long as he needed her at all. It is easy for us to become discouraged as we deal with our families, our friends, our business associates, especially if we try to win them to Christ, and they remain disinterested. But we are not to be "weary in well doing, for in due time ye shall reap if ye faint not." We need to keep ourselves from failing, in the interest of others!

Our responsibilities do not end with one good deed, but we do another and another, until one would normally reach the point of "weariness," but as Christians we do not give up. It is such love that causes a mother to keep teaching and training her children, that urges elders to watch tenderly over the flock of God, and impels husbands and wives to "cleave unto each other."

Can you honestly say "I have done the best I could" in all of my relationships of life? Recall for a moment your quick anger, your hasty words, your harsh glances! Try to imagine how someone under your influence felt when you uttered the hasty word, neglected the moment for praise! Try to imagine how Jesus would act in the situations you face, and how he would handle his responsibility if he stood in your place. He would be able to say, "I have done the best I could!" Can you say it?
[via Arnold Knight News from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Sept. 17, 1995, p. 2-3]

The formation of right habits is essential to your permanent security. They diminish your changes of falling when assailed, they augment your chances of recovery when overthrown.
[by John Tyndall from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Sept. 17, 1995, p. 2]

WHEN WE FAIL (Rom. 3:23)

We DO fail. Sometimes we fail others, and our weakness may well hurt and disillusion those who have trusted and counted on us. We can never afford to take lightly our failing of each other.

However, God finds even in our frailty opportunity for all involved to grow spiritually. "Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more." Out of humiliating experiences we can cultivate and exercise compassion and forgiveness.

A greater challenge to the sensitive Christian is to respond in the spirit of Jesus when we fail OURSELVES. Here also we have opportunity to learn through compassion and forgiveness. Too often, however, we refuse to extend to ourselves the kindness we feel obliged to show to others. There are many who possess a distaste for themselves which they would never dare to harbor in their hearts toward a brother.

Self-contempt is not a fruit of the Spirit. It does not forgive. It underminds confidence, and inhibits progress. In questioning our basic worth, it frustrates the objective of repentance, which is harmony with self and God.

It is both reasonable and productive to grieve over failure with a GODLY SORROW. Paul says that such sorrow produces repentance and leads to life. Peter had that experience. Out of his shameful failure, he found a more intimate relationship with God, whose mercy he was driven to seek and accept.

WORLDLY SORROW, on the other hand, is counterproductive. Paul declares, "It leads to death." Worldly sorrow is remorse. It is merely self-condemning. It embitters with hopelessness. It defies God's will that we be loved and pardoned. Judas was a victim of worldly sorrow. He judged himself unworthy of love and forgiveness. And that's what our refusal to be Christian in response to our own failings amounts to.

In dealing with human failure, whether our own or that of others, choose compassion. It will make better people of us.
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Sept. 24, 1995, p. 2-3]

10 MISTAKES TO AVOID

Remorse over yesterday's failures.
Anxiety over today's problems.
Worry over tomorrow's problems.
Waste of the moment's opportunities.
Procrastination with one's present duty.
Resentment of another's success.
Criticism of a neighbor's imperfection.
Impatience with youth's immaturity.
Skepticism of our nation's future.
Unbelief in God's providence.
[from The Exhorter Arab, Alabama via Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Sept. 24, 1995, p. 3]

WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?

From the story of the Good Samaritan, the answer is:
1. the person in need
2. who has been beaten up by life
3. who would be passed by by the religious leaders of the day.
[by Jack Hayford]

HOW TO OPEN UP A CLOSED SPIRIT. (all these things must be done at once)
1. Become tenderhearted. Have gentleness.
2. Increase understanding of their pain.
3. Admit when I was wrong and say "I'm sorry"
4. Hug a lot
5. Ask for forgiveness and pray.

HAVE YOU BEEN COMMITTED?

What are some things that we commit to as individuals? The list could include a marriage, a job, a career, a family, etc. What about Christ and His church? Do they appear on your list? As Christians, we are to be committed to the cause of Christ - teaching others about His Father and saving souls.

Christ gives the best example of commitment. He committed to his work here on earth beginning at a very early age. Remember what happened when Jesus was twelve years old? His family made their annual trip to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. As they began their journey back home, Jesus' parents left him in the city thinking he was with them. When they returned and found him in the temple, do you recall his response to his mother's inquiry? He said...(Luke 2:49). Even at twelve years old, Jesus knew and committed to his task of teaching others about his heavenly Father.

Christ also committed to overcoming Satan's temptations. Each time Satan tried to tempt him, Christ used God's word to answer Satan. When Satan tried to persuade Jesus to worship him, Jesus responded with...(Luke 4:8). Jesus always knew what was most important - worshipping and serving God.

Christ's ultimate commitment is shown in his death. He was the only one who could have died to save the rest of mankind because of His perfection. He showed how much he cared for other people when he said...(Luke 23:34) while suffering a long agonizing death on the cruel cross. His life, death, and resurrection give us the opportunity to follow him to heaven if we will only remain committed to him throughout our lives.

What are some signs that we lack the total commitment necessary to be a faithful Christian? There are too many to list them all, but a partial list might include the following: lack of attendance at worship, lack of joy, and lack of participation. Each of these points out potential problems in a Christian's life.

A committed Christian will always make the largest possible attempt to gather with the saints at the scheduled worship services. Habitual lack of attendance, however, has been a problem in the church for a long time. The writer of Hebrews put it this way...(Heb. 10:25). Many Christians often make excuses for habitually forsaking the assembly. Will excuses work with God?

Have you ever met a Christian that was not joyous and happy? Have you ever wondered why that person was not happy? Christians should be most joyous people on earth. As Christians we should rejoice because of our hope of heaven (Luke 10:20). Jesus wants his joy to rub off on his followers (John 15:11). A committed Christian will be full of joy and happiness as a result of Christ's love and encouragement.

When was the last time you attended a church function apart from a regularly scheduled worship service - gospel meeting, VBS, devotional, youth camp activity, etc.? When was the last time you taught a class? Men, when was the last time you participated in a worship service by leading a prayer or serving the Lord's Supper? Committed Christians aren't "pew sitters" who just sit and watch, they are active! Committed Christians do not wait for someone to ask them to do something they "just do it," to quote a popular television commercial, as they see a need arise.

What other signs of an uncommitted Christian can you think of?

The first step in commitment to Christ is becoming a Christian. Once we are baptized into Christ, Christian commitment is a matter of keeping one's priorities in the proper order. If Christ and his church are our first priority, we will be wholly committed to his work. Examine your commitment level and make the appropriate changes to be sure that you are a truly committed Christian. Eternal salvation could depend on it.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 12, 1995, p. 2-3]

GOING WITH THE MONEY

Charles Hodge was disturbed. He was invited to school to address a number of youngsters on their annual Career Day. He was stunned by the blatant materialism which was so much in evidence. Everything seemed to center on financial remuneration. They were so serious. "They didn't know how to laugh."

From whence comes this mind-set? Did it blow in on the wind? Was it instilled by their school teachers? (This is hard to imagine, because most teachers do not enter their profession thinking they are going to get rich teaching school). You don't suppose it came from us? As mothers and fathers have we taught our children, either by precept or example, that money is the most important thing in life? If that happens to be the case, we have certainly drifted far from the teachings of Christ.

Maybe is it time for us to reflect once again on the temptation of Christ when Satan urged Jesus to turn stones into bread. He had been fasting for forty days and was hungry. His body cried out for bread and Satan mentioned how easy it would be for him to satisfy the flesh. The perfection of Jesus is manifest in his refusal. Hunger was not wrong. Bread was not an improper thing. But the refusal of Jesus makes it plain that it is better to be hungry than to be fed without reference to the will of God. He cannot act in independence as a Son. The essence of Sonship is obedience. And if for the moment the circumstances into which the Spirit has led him necessitates his hunger, then he will do nothing to alter tha condition.

Man does not live by bread alone. Man lives by the Word of God.

Once we learn this truth we may be able to impart it to our children. Until then I am afraid they will continue to be molded and shaped by our thinking and values.
[by John Gipson from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 5, 1995, p. 2]

MY EIGHT HOPES AS I GROW OLDER

1. Keep me from the bad habit of thinking that I need to say something on every subject on every occasion.
2. Release me from craving to straighten out everybody else's affairs.
3. Make me thoughtful but not moody, helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity to not use it all.
4. Keep my mind for the recital of endless details. Give me what I need to get to the point.
5. Keep me from constantly publicizing my aches and pains. They're increasing and love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by.
6. Give me growing humility.
7. Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be mistaken.
8. Give me the ability to see good things in unexpected places and talents in unexpected people. Give me the grace to tell them so.
[from Beltline Beacon of Decatur, Ala. via Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 5, 1995, p. 2-3]

TURNING AROUND A NATION

In II Chron. 7:14, God gave Solomon the formula for turning around a nation. Israel's king had just finished building the Temple and Israel had praised God for all He had done for them. Knowing that they would in the future fall away, God advised Solomon regarding the key to restoring a nation. He said, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." Four keys are found in this text.

First, God's people must humble themselves. Humility recognizes God's power instead of one's own. Only God is great enough to turn around a people. When we humble ourselves and give ourselves to Him, we become powerful tools in His hands to change the course of history.

The second key to prayer. Once again, God's power and providence are recognized as the principle agent in change. Christians MUST devote themselves to prayer if America is to be saved. Let us not sin AGAINST her by not praying FOR her.

Thirdly, we must seek God's face. This is the essence of "faith". (Heb. 11:6) When we seek God, we also seek his will for our nation.

Finally, we must turn from our wicked ways. Repentance is a message that must be preached to America. For unless we turn away from our wicked paths, our God will not turn to us.

Let's join together as God's people to turn our nation around. Otherwise the fate of nations gone by will be ours.
[by Leslie Chapman from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Oct. 29, 1995, p. 2]

GOD'S GIFT IN NATURE

We plow the fields and scatter
The good seed on the land.
But it is fed and watered
By God's almighty hand.
He sends the snow in winter
The warmth to swell the grains,
The breeze and the sunshine,
And soft refreshing rain.
He only is the maker
Of all things near and far.
He paints the wayside flowers,
He lights the evening star.
The wind and waves obey him.
By him the birds are fed;
Much more to us his children
He gives our daily bread.
We thank thee, then, o Father,
For all things bright and good,
The seed time and the harvest,
Our life, our health, our food.
Accept the gifts we offer,
For all thy love imparts,
And, what thou most desirest,
Our humble, thankful hearts.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Oct. 29, 1995, p. 3]

THE CHURCH, THE BODY OF CHRIST
In Eph. 1:22-23, Paul wrote....

Church. Body. Family. Kingdom. All are descriptions of God's people each reflecting a different characteristic or function. While Paul employed all of these in his writings, the concept of "body" was a frequent subject, expecially when refering to individual congregations. An analysis of Paul's usage through the inspiration of the Spirit reveals the value of describing the church as a "body".

First, the Church is described as a body because it is the physical representative of Jesus Christ upon the earth. When Jesus ascended to God's right hand, he instituted the Church to continue his ministry. In Matt. 28:19-20 we read.... The "body" continues the work of its Head, Jesus Christ.

In the second place, the "body" acknowledges the diversity among Christians within the local church. Everyone has been blessed with different gifts and talents with which they serve the church. In Rom. 12:4-6 we read....

Thirdly, the concept of "body" signifies the unity of the church. While there are many members, we come together to form one body. No one is insignificant within the Body of Christ, (I Cor. 12:14-15).

Finally as a "body", we are interdependent upon one another. As the body cannot function without a heart, or lungs, or a liver, neither can the body simply despose of undesirable members. In the words of Paul, we...(Rom. 12:15).

The "body of Christ" is a wonderful concept of what our relationship is to Christ and to one another. Let us all use our gifts to serve one another and, most of all, to serve Him who is Head of the Body and Savior of our souls.
[by Leslie Chapman from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Oct. 22, 1995, p. 2-3]

LORD OF THE CHURCH

Lord of the church, we humbly pray
For those who guide us in thy way,
And speak thy holy word;
With love divine their hearts inspire,
And touch their lips with hallowed fire,
And needful grace afford.
Help them to preach the truth of God.
Redemption through the Savior's blood;
Nor let the Spirit cease
On all the church his gifts to shower:
To them, a messenger of power,
To us, of life and peace.
So may they live to thee alone,
Then hear the welcome word, "well done!"
And take their crown above;
Enter into their master's joy,
And all eternity employ
In praise and bliss and love.
[by Edward Osler from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Oct. 22, 1995, p. 3]

HOW TO WRITE GOOD

My several years in the word game have learnt me several rules:
1. Avoid alliteration. Always.
2. Prepositions are not words to end sentences with.
3. Avoid cliches like the plague. (They're old hat.)
4. Employ the vernacular.
5. Eschew ampersands & abbreviations, etc.
6. Parenthetical remarks (however relevant) are unnecessary.
7. It is wrong to ever split an infinitive.
8. Contractions aren't necessary.
9. Foreign words and phrases are not apropos.
10. One should never generalize.
11. Eliminate quotations. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: "I hate quotations. Tell me what you know."
12. Comparisons are as bad as cliches.
13. Don't be redundant; don't use more words than necessary; it's highly superfluous.
14. Profanity sucks.
15. Be more or less specific.
16. Understatement is always best.
17. Exaggeration is a billion times worse than understatement.
18. One-word sentences? Eliminate.
19. Analogies in writing are like feathers on a snake.
20. The passive voice is to be avoided.
21. Go around the bard at high noon to avoid colloquialisms.
22. Even if a mixed metaphor sings, it should be derailed.
23. Who needs rhetorical questions?
[by Frank L. Visco]

A WEDDING FEAST IN CANA

In John 2:1-11 we read of Jesus' first miraculous sign that was given at a wedding feast in Cana of Galilee. Notice that I said "that was given," not "that was performed." In John's Gospel, Jesus' miracles are most often referred to as "signs". In John 20:30-31 we read....

A sign is defined as "something that indicates a fact of quality." In other words, a sign always "points" beyond itself to something else. In the book of John, the Lord's miracles do more than just proclaim His divinity, they point to specific truths about Jesus and the coming rule of God.

Most of us remember Jesus turning the water into wine as the answer to the trivia question, "What was the first miracle Jesus ever performed?" However, for the recipients of John's Gospel and for Jesus' early disciples it was far more than an answer to a trivia question - it proclaimed the dawning of the Kingdom of God.

In the Old Testament, the prophets had compared the coming Messianic Kingdom to a wedding feast (Isa. 62:1-5) and the land as filled with an abundance of wine (Amos 9:13). While these comparisons were symbolic, so was much of the reason for Jesus' miracle in Cana. During the feast in Cana, a feast that would sometimes last a week, Mary informed Jesus that the host had run out of wine, a situation as tragic as a Wedding Reception today running out of punch or Wedding cake in the middle of the reception. After an interesting exchange between Jesus and his mother, Jesus had the servants fill six stone water jars full of water, each holding approximately twenty to thirty gallons each. After having done so, Jesus instructed the servants to draw from the jars and give to the master of the banquet. What appeared to be a tragedy turned into a wonderful success.

What was to the wedding party an act of friendship and help was to Jesus' disciples the sign of the dawning of the Messianic Act. In fact Jesus went on to tell us...(John 2:11).

The next time you read in John's gospel about a miracle of Jesus, look beyond the sign to that which the sign is pointing - something amazing about Jesus our Lord.
[by Leslie Chapman from Sycamore Chapel Bulletin, Dec. 10, 1995, p. 2]

DECEMBER 7, 1941

I was 7 years old. My general recall of people, places, and things at that age is at best vague, and imperfect in continuity. But that morning on the way to church we stopped by at the home of brother and sister Reubush, as we had probably done many times. In my memory the entire picture is vivid in detail. The house, the yard, where every person was standing, is as clear to me today as it was that Sunday morning so many years ago.

I'm sure that I, at that moment, did not comprehend the seriousness of the news. Perhaps it was the impact of the next four years that reinforced the memory. In any case, this date, December 7, is forever a reminder of the terrible price in human blood with which our freedom was bought.

A great Christian memorial appeals to similar emotional responses. The Lord's Supper is intended to remind us of "the terrible price in human blood with which our freedom was bought." It should also cause us to remember vividly "where we were when we heard the news." We were lost, hopeless, separated in time and in eternity from fellowship with God. The memorial is so very meaningful, if it really causes us to reflect on "where we were."

The Lord's Supper is focused on the DEATH of Christ. But it is forever associated with another event which is also to be commemorated throughout history. The Lord's Day, the day of His RESURRECTION, is the day the early disciples observed the Memorial Supper.

What a wonderful way to make use of our faculty of memory! Christian worship includes both the sobering reminder of "where we were" AND the joyful celebration of "where we are"...more than conquerors through Him who loved us!

Enjoy the benefit from these memorials today, as we gratefully remember the supreme expression of God's love for us, and as we rejoice in the victory it made possible.
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel Bulletin, Dec. 10, 1995, p. 2-3]

DAY BY DAY

Habits are like comfortable beds; easy to get into, but hard to get out of. Habits are like a cable. Each day we do something in a pattern we intertwine one thread with another. As threads are woven together, a cable is formed. On any particular day, the thread we added was too small to be noticed. But, after many threads have been woven in, we find that together they have become a practically unbreakable cable.

So it is with habits. Daily practices over time become habits that rare practically unbreakable - so be careful what you weave. Here are some suggstions of things to incorporate into your life day by day...

Daily Bible reading (Neh. 8:18)
Daily Bible study (Acts 17:11)
Daily prayer (Psa. 88:9)
Daily cross bearing (Luke 9:23)
Daily meditation (Psa. 1:2)
Daily encouragement (Heb. 3:13)
Daily teaching (Acts 5:42)
Daily growth (Acts 16:5)

Do you want to become more like Jesus Christ? Do you desire to reach new heights for God? Then look closely at your daily activities and begin good habits.
[by Douglas F. Parsons from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Dec. 3, 1995, p. 2]

THE FOOTBALL SERVICE

Quarterback sneak: Church members who exit following the Lord's supper, a quarter of the way through the service.
Draft choice: Selection of a seat near the door.
Draw play: What too many children do with the attendance cards and songbooks.
Halftime: The time between Bible class and worship.
Benchwarmer: Those whose only participation in the work or life of the church is their attendance on Sunday morning.
Fumble: Dropping the songbook, singing the wrong verse and general inattention during the service.
Backfield in motion: Making two or three trips out of the service.
Stay in the pocket: What happens to a lot of money that should go toward the Lord's work.
Two minute warning: When the preacher begins to extend the invitation, giving everyone time to shuffle books and gather belongings.
Sudden death: The preacher goes overtime.
Blitz: Stampede for the door after the service.
Halfback option: When 50% of the congregation does not return Sunday evening.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Dec. 3, 1995, p. 2]

A MATTER OF CHOICE

Thanksgiving is a matter of choice.

One of the wealthiest men I know has chosen to scowl his way through every day. Family members and helpless employees are daily victims of his acid tongue. Accustomed to his snide comments and snarling commands, they would be astounded if he ever expressed appreciation for their desperate efforts to please him. In every circumstances he chooses to grumble.

Thanksgiving is a matter of choice.

I can choose to mutter about the peeling paint and the 1960's wallpaper and the disintegrating plumbing that make my house an every-weekend handyman's project, or I can thank God that he allows me to live in the largest, most elegant home I have occupied in over half a hundred years of living. It's up to me.

I can choose to complain that my wife turns on lights and runs bath water at 4:30 a.m. every morning right when I'm sleeping most soundly or I can elect instead to kiss her and thank her for faithfully going to work in the dark every day to earn dollars that pay for the extras we've learned to enjoy. The choice is mine.

I can choose to be irritated when people invade my over-obligated calendar with their assorted tales of woe, or I can thank them for trusting me enough to tell me of dreams that have just fallen apart or for letting me share their most secret tears. Anger or gratitude are my daily options.

Over much of life we have no control, but no one can deprive us of the right to decide how we will react to situations we're in.

Christians are wisely commanded...(I Thes. 5:18).

Not just during this holiday season, but in every moment of our lives, Thanksgiving is a matter of choice.
[by Gene Shelburne from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 26, 1995, p. 2]

WHAT DO YOU HAVE?
(I Cor. 4:7)
There are few tests of spirituality more accurate than that of gratitude.

The materialist recognizes no benefactor; therefore, gratitude is hardly a relevant virtue to him. The God-conscious person, however, knows that whatever he is, whatever he has, he has received. He realizes that what he has received is a product of grace. From such a perspective of life, gratitude rises quite naturally.

Gratitude is properly expressed in thanksgiving. That's why giving of thanks is such a prominent feature of Christian worship. In attitude and conversation, the quality of our faith is reflected in praising God for His love and generosity in managing our lives.

This season of the year encourages thanksgiving, and we welcome it for that reason. It's a time for taking inventory of our blessings so that our Benefactor may be properly thanked.

In that interest, we need to give serious thought to Paul's quotation, considering the personal implications of it. What DO we have? An honest appraisal of our material possessions, our spiritual advantages and hopes will reveal that we have been richly provided for!

Then, we need to consider the fact that WHATEVER we have, there is NOTHING, ABOSOLUTELY NOTHING, that we have not received!

That gives us reason for gratitude. Let's express it, in worship and service!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 26, 1995, p. 2]

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to contemplate all the rich blessings we receive from the hand of God. Yet, all too often, we spend much of our time fretting and worrying about the things we don't have and the problems in our life. Many times we sound just like the world because our perspective is skewed. We would do well to learn a lesson from the following letter written by a girl to her parents while she was away at college. She writes:

Dear Mom and Dad: I'm sorry to be so long in writing again, but all my writing paper was lost the night the dormitory was burned down by demonstrators. I'm out of the hospital now, and the doctor says my eyesight should be back to normal sooner or later.

The wonderful boy, Bill, who rescued me from the fire kindly offered to share his little apartment with me until the dorm is rebuilt. He comes from a good family so you won't be too surprised when I tell you that we are going to be married. In fact, you always wanted a grandchild, so you will be glad to know that you will be grandparents next month.

Please disregard the above practice in English composition. There was no fire, I haven't been in the hospital, I'm not blind. I'm not pregnant, and I don't even have a boyfriend. But I did get a "D" in French and an "F" in Chemistry, and I wanted to be sure that you received this news in proper perspective.

Love, Mary

Of all the people in the world, we, the children of God, have the most to be thankful for. The sad thing is that we often look at things with the same eyes as the world. But we are a people of HOPE. God does love us. God did give His Son for us. And, we have an eternal inheritance because we are His adopted sons. So, give thanks for the truly valuable things in this life, and use this holiday season as a time to renew your perspective!
[by Scott Jarvis from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 19, 1995, p. 2]

THANKSGIVING

Oh, giver of every good and perfect gift,
We pause to give Thee thanks;
For all the joys and blessings;
That have followed all our days,
For our families and our loved ones;
And for all the joy they bring,
And for our food and clothing;
And, our God, for everything;
That has been done throughout the ages;
To make our lives so bright and fair,
And for all the things we cannot count;
That show your love and care.
Oh, Father, may we ever know;
From Whom these blessings flow;
And ne'er take Thee for granted;
In our living here below.
May we never be ungrateful;
Or forget your kindly hand;
That has shielded us from evil;
In this blessed freedom's land.
And may our soul's rejoicing;
In thy goodness ever be;
As our hearts are filled with praises;
And with gratitude to Thee.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 19, 1995, p. 3]

BREAKING AWAY

The memory is clear: It was the fifth inning. Two men on and two out.

I swept the batter's box with my cleats and squeezed the bat. Stepping in, I adjusted by helmet and took a couple of practice swings.

I was ready.

A hit will score two runs and tie up the game. I told myself. The pitcher went into a stretch, then delivered. I fouled off his pitch, and then I worked the count to 2-2. He then reared back and hung a curve right in my wheelhouse. I took a big swing - and whiffed!

Rats! In a clutch situation, I had let my team down. On my way back to the dugout. I drop kicked my helmet and flung the bat.

My head was hanging as I look for my mitt, but as I passed several teammates, a chorus of encouragement greeted me. "You'll get him next time," said the center fielder, slapping me on my backside. "Don't worry about it."

"There's plenty of time," piped another. "We'll get this guy."

But one phrase - a standard baseball cliche - stood out in my mind that day. "Hey, Vince," said the staff shortstop, "Shake it off."

Shake it off. What my buddy was saying was that for the good of the team, I had to put my inning-ending strikeout behind me. They knew I would get another chance to bet with runners on the corners and the game on the line. My teammates didn't want me dwelling on my stikeout, instead, they wanted me in the right frame of mind - the get-a-hit kind.

These days, however, I know too many men who have not been able to "shake off" the strikeouts of their lives. These men have not been able to let go of the past, and as a result, they are often bound to it. In my "Men on Target" seminars, I deal with what I call the four negative influences of our past: fear, anger, unforgiveness and guilt. Let's take a closer look at these adversaries.

Fear. Fear occurs when you don't feel in control of a situation. For many, fear is rooted in insecurity. You could be fearful because you were abused as a child, and wonder if you have what it takes to be a good dad. Maybe you've been taken advantage of in business dealings, and you lack the confidence to find the right job. Or, after a girlfriend or spouse walked out of your life, you wonder if you're capable of ever loving again.

Anger. Fear generally leads to anger, and angry folks are not fun to be around. We all know about the proverbial chip on the shoulder, but sometimes we have an incentive to get angry. Why? Because anger is socially acceptable, but fear is not. It's considered OK - even manly - to throw a tantrum or a batting helmet.

Usually, one of three things happens when we get angry: We internalize it, which hurts us, or we vent, which hurts others, or we manage it, which is what Jesus did. (Prov. 29:11.)

Unforgiveness. I, too, was wrapped up in unforgiveness - plus anger. For 25 years, I worked for a large nationwide retail company. I shot up the corporate ladder, but there was one guy who was always one promotion ahead of me. I couldn't stand him. I didn't like the way he managed employees, I didn't like his vision for the company's future and I didn't like his personality. Robert rubbed me the wrong way.

Then I had a Nathan experience. Remember how Nathan in II Sam. 12 describes to David how the rich man stole the poor man's only sheep and slaughtered it to feed a passing traveler?

"David burned with anger against the man..." who in reality was a fictitious person used by Nathan to illustrate what David himself was doing. A friend and co-worker pointed out to me that the very things that bothered me about Robert were the same things I was doing.

I did something I should have done much earlier - pray about it. I then realized I had been just like Robert. Like David, I knew I had to repent and ask for Robert's forgiveness.

It wasn't easy to do, but one day I asked Robert to go out to lunch with me. After the salad plates were taken away. I said, "Robert, I have something to tell you. I've been telling stories about you. I've complained about you to co-workers. In fact, I've been a hypocrite. Because of all these things I've done against you, I need to ask for your forgiveness.

Robert stared at me. He had no clue why I would be apologizing to him.

I was the person that author Gordon MacDonald was talking about when he said, "Harboring resentments hinders spiritual growth and effectiveness."

Guilt. Finally, there are men who are unable to overcome guilt or condemnation. Many of us have powerful forces keeping us in the past.... If those things are always in front and center of your mind, never far away from your thoughts, you will never see God's ultimate plan for your life. That's why you need to take Paul's advice in Phili. 3:13-14.

We have to die to the past - let it go and give it to God. Here are four steps you can take:

1. Focus on God's promise. (II Cor. 5:17.) In Christ, we are able to receive forgiveness, restoration and redemption and enter into God's timeless plan for our life.
2. Resist denial. (Psa. 32:5.) You must own the past, not deny it. You cannot give to the Lord what you do not own.
3. Confess and repent. (I John 1:9.) Remember also that repentance means to go the other way, to "turn around" completely. Repentance is a lifestyle, not an event.
4. Pray and release. Finally we must pray and allow God to take our concerns and burdens from us. It's important, but sometimes difficult for us to "release" some things. You may also want to ask your minister or other Christian brothers to pray with you.

What's it like to be addled with the past? Let's say everywhere you go, you have a 15-pound dumbbell strapped to your side. That extra weight carries physical restraints: You can't walk as far, you can't jump as high, and you can't move as quickly as you'd like.

In the same way, many of us are hindered spiritually by the weight of past negative experiences. It's not as visible, and some have learned how to hide this baggage rather well. But we need to let go of that emotional weight just as if we dropped a real dummbell on a wood floor - BLAM! Forever gone!

God's call on men today is too important, and the stakes are too high. No matter who you are, where you've been or what you've done. He loves you and wants to forgive and restore you and use you to win a dying world.
[by Vince D'Acchioli copied from Jan/Feb 1996 issue of New Man magazine via Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 21, 1996, p. 2-4]

THE LEGEND OF THE CANDY CANE

It was invented by a Christian in England in the 17th century. At that time, the government would not let people celebrate Christmas. So a candy maker made candy shaped like a shepherd's crook to be a secret symbol of Jesus.

The three small stripes represent the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The large red stripe is for the life of Jesus that he gave for us.

The candy was a double gift, a sweet treat, and a symbol of Christmas.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Dec. 24, 1995, p. 2]

THE LIVING WORD
(Heb. 4:12)
God's word may be called the "living word" because it is able both to bring to life, and to sustain the life of, those who receive it.

This life-producing influence of the word may be exerted through several channels. The written word itself, housed in the book we call the Bible, has the power both to convict and to convert those who read and respond in obedience to its instruction. It contains information which can make us "wise unto salvation."

"Salvation," however, must not be thought of as merely a state of forgiveness. Salvation is a maturing relationship with God, something we're instructed to "work out." It's a transformation that is evidence of the word of God living in us. It is a living condition in which the word has been translated into the language of changed hearts and lives of those who have received it.

Indeed, some may merely read the Bible and discover the solutions to their problems. Others may be persuaded by the preaching of the word. But the lost world needs to see the power of the gospel displayed clearly in the love, joy, peace, and sureness of purpose that characterizes those who have been recipients of this Good news, and whose quality of life is a reflection of its transforming power!

Jesus didn't just come to SPEAK the word. He came AS the LIVING WORD of God! All the blessing of the term "gospel" are perfectly embodied in Him.

So it should be with those who claim to be His disciples. The changed lives of saved sinners is the translation of the Bible that the watching world is most likely to read, and believe.

May God help us to become His "living epistles!" That's what is means to "adorn the doctrine" and to "live a life worthy of your calling."
[by Ruel D. Catless from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Dec. 17, 1995, p. 2-3]

WE NEED THIS VERSE
(Heb. 3:13.)
Let's examine what this passage teaches, beginning with the end of the verse and working our way backward.

First, sin is deceitful. So often when we sin we think somehow that it is to our advantage to sin. It never is, in the long run. Sin kills. (Rom. 6:23)

Second, we can become hardened by sin. By persisting in sin our conscience becomes seared (I Tim. 4:2), and we no longer care whether we sin or do what is right. We lose our desire to repent.

Third, today is all we have. Yesterday is gone; tomorrow is uncertain. All we have is now. It is today that we can either do God's will or live in sin.

Fourth, we need to encourage one another, day after day. Since sin is deceitful and we can be hardened by it, and since today is all we have, what a great service we can render to our fellow Christians by helping each other become and stay strong in the Lord. This is why our regular, frequent assemblies are so vital (Heb. 10:24-25). We need these times together: in His wisdom God designed us to be a community of believers, a fellowship of faith. Members who are irregular in their attendance don't seem to understand this. They also are in the greatest danger of being "hardened by the deceitfulness of sin."
[by David Gibson from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 3, 1996, p. 2-3]

THE SECRET OF SUCCESS

The Sermon on the Mount has been called "the constitution of Christian Faith." In that famous discourse Jesus reveals that knowing God, obeying God, seeing God, and becoming like God forms the foundation upon which spiritual life is built.

It's only as we learn to trust God that we can be trustworthy in our relationships with our fellows; it is only as we meet our responsibilities to God that we will consistently meet our responsibilities to others; it is only as we love God that we will have what it takes to love those whom He expects us to love.

The Sermon on the Mount also contains practical guidelines for personal conduct, and for managing our relationships. However, it's highly important that we recognize this fact: We cannot hope to experience successful spiritual living by merely learning the formulas here outlined, nor by conforming behaviorally to other ethical or doctrinal lists found in the Bible.

Spiritual life is more than prescribed rules and rituals. It is more than a plan, or a formula. Christian philosophy and ethics do not work simply because they are of better quality than the philosophy and ethics devised by men. Spiritual demands cannot be met on a humanistic basis.

Which is to say, that what God requires of us, only He can equip us to perform. No amount of human compassion or will or devotion to duty can prepare us to live and to serve in the manner and to the extent that He asks of us.

The secret ingredient is, as Paul said, "Christ in you, the hope of glory." In the interest of successful, vital spiritual living, nothing will substitute for an ever deepening, increasingly intimate personal relationship with God, through yielding to the motivating and empowering influence of the Spirit of his Son residing within us!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 18, 1996, p. 2]

BRINGING YOUR CHILDREN TO CHURCH

Bringing chidren to worship requires a lot of equipment: plastic books, quiet toys, baby-wipes and diapers. It also requires a lot of parental qualitites: patience, commitment (to God and the child), organisational skills and a lot of flexibility. Even when everything goes well, you find it difficult to participate in worship or to get much out of the sermon. Distractions are there, even on the best of Sundays. You mutter to yourself, "Why do I ever bother!?"

So, what are you to do? Keep on bringing the precious gift from God to Bible study and worship! That's what you do! Bringing that child to church faithfully is an investment in that child's eternal salvation. How satisfying it will be to you when your child comments some day, "My parents always took me to church, and I am thankful that they taught me the importance of always going to church."

1. Your child does not disturb the preacher nearly as much as you think. Normally the preacher becomes distracted by children only when a child's behavior (or prolonged crying) prevents others from hearing the sermon.
2. Most people really do understand your situation and respect you highly for bringing your child to worship.

And, I offer these suggestions:

1. Do not feel compelled to take your child out of the assembly the instant your child makes a noise. However, by prompt to take your child out for appropriate action when you cannot handle the child's misbehavior in a reasonably brief time.
2. When you take your child (past infancy) out because of misbehavior, make sure that you do not allow the trip out to become a rewarding or fun experience. (Proper disciplinary actions that is administered consistently will soon result in appropriate behavior in the assembly, and "going out" will become less necessary).
3. Do not use the nursery or cryroom as a playground. Remember that your objective is to train your child to sit still and quietly during worship.
[by David Sain from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 11, 1996, p. 2]

WHEN TO JUDGE
(John 7:24)
All of us are in the judging business. We constantly evaluate and reach decisions about all kinds of things, including the conduct of others. The question is not whether or not we make judgments. The question is whether our judgments are right. Here are some guidelines that might help us know when to judge.

* Judge when you are sure you know the facts. That is the only way to avoid judging "by appearance." Frequently, things look one way to us when, in fact, the whole truth may be something entirely different. It looked to the Jewish religous establishment like Jesus was leading the people astray from God's ways (John 7:12). If only they had had the whole picture, their conclusion would have been quite different.

Make up your mind that you will never, never make a judgment about another person until you have all the facts. It will be difficult to assemble the entire puzzle unless you are well acquainted with the person you are evaluating.

* Judge when you are sure you are truly merciful. With God, mercy and justice are always perfectly blended. He is truly fair and truly loving in his dealings with us. None of us can compare ourselves with God on that score. We are never totally true or totally good in the way we treat people.

But determine that you will try to judge others with real compassion. Always ask whether you understand the other person's situation. Always be gentle when you deal with another's faults (Gal. 6:1).

* Judge when you are sure of your own limitations. In the final analysis, none of us is fully qualified to judge. Paul reminded that "each of us shall give account of himself to God." That grand fact led him to the conclusion that we should "no more pass judgement on one another" (Rom. 14:12-13).

When you do reach a conclusion about someone else, always hedge the judgment with the awareness that your decision is human, tentative, partial, and imperfect.

If you'll use these guidelines, it will be surprising how little time you have left to write verdicts.
[by Dan Anders from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 28, 1996, p. 2]

THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS OF BIBLE STUDY

A few years ago a friend showed me a prayer letter he had received in the mail. Inside were the following instructions: Take the prayer sheet I have sent you and write your name on it, and as you do, lay hands on it. We must have your prayer requests back from you so we can touch them and pray over them for "if any two agree touching anything, it shall be done."

By misunderstanding the portion of scripture in Matt. 18:19, the well-meaning Christian who wrote this letter hit a new low in biblical interpretation. The word touching which is so crucial to his viewpoint, does not even occur in the Greek text.

Although a bit extreme, this example illustrates the unusual and sometimes amusing ways the Bible is interpreted and applied. One of my seminary professors, Howard Hendricks, once said, "Many applicational elephants dangle from interpretive threads!"

To interpret and apply God's Word properly, we must be aware of what I call the "seven deadly sins" of Bible study. In this article we'll identify these "sins" and discover how to avoid them.

1. Proof-texting

When I was a child, our minister often gave the following benediction at the end of a service: "May the Lord watch between me and thee, while we are absent one from another."

I always assumed that he was asking God to protect us both until the following Sunday, and I'm sure that was his intent. It wasn't until years later that I discovered he had taken the verse completely out of context. The verse isn't really as nice as it sounds. It's found in Gen. 31, after Jacob and Laban have settled a heated argument by making a covenant. Because Laban doesn't completely trust Jacob and knows that the two of them will not be together, he asks the Lord to keep an eye on his son-in-law to make sure Jacob doesn't mistreat his daughters. Taken in context, the verse is sort of a pious threat - hardly a fitting benediction!

In order to avoid proof-texting - taking a verse out of context - we need to realize that good Bible study requires more than looking up a string of isolated verses. We would never think of reading a Tom Clancy novel the way we do scripture - one sentence from chapter one, another from chapter five and a third from chapter 12. It would result in nonsense, and we would miss the plot entirely! The Bible was written as literary units, such as books, letters and poems, that were meant to be read from beginning to end.

2. Being too literal

Several years ago the cult expert Walter Martin was giving a lecture on a religious cult. A few members of the cult heard about the lecture and decided to attend. About halfway through the meeting one of them stood up and began arguing that God the Father has a physical body like ours. He "proved" his point by quoting passages that refer to God's "right arm", "hand", "eyes", and so on.

Martin told the person to read aloud Psa. 17:8. "Hide me in the shadow of your wings." and asked whether that meant God also has feathers and wings.

"But that's simply a figure of speech," protested the cult member.

"Exactly!" replied Martin.

In order to avoid a wooden kind of literalism, we need to realize that the biblical authors communicated in a variety of ways - through metaphors, similes and symbols - and through a variety of literary genres, such as history, parables, letters, poems and prophecy. We must identify the type of language and literature an author is using in order to interpret his meaning correctly. If we assume, for example, that an author is speaking literally when he is speaking metaphorically (the mistake made by the cult member), we end up with nonsense.

3. Ignoring the Bible's background

Most Bible readers are familiar with Christ's famous words to the church in Laodicea...(Rev. 3:15-16). Yet because many Christians ignore the historical and cultural background of this passage, they misunderstand Christ's meaning.

We usually assume that "hot" means we are spiritually alive or "on fire" for the Lord, while "cold" means we are spiritually dead or hostile toward Him. In other words Jesus would prefer that we be either for Him or against Him rather than being neutral. But this interpretation of "cold" and "hot" completely ignors the historical and cultural background of this passage and is therefore misleading.

The city of Colosse, which was fewer than 10 miles from Laodicea, was known for its cold, refreshing waters. The city of Hierapolis to the north was famous for its beneficial hot springs. Laodicea had a six-mile-long aqueduct that brought both hot and cold water to the city, but by the time the waters arrived they were both lukewarm.

Do you see how this background radically changes the way we interpret this passage?

Jesus never wants anyone to be spiritually dead or hostile toward Him, and He would certainly not prefer this condition to lukewarm Christianity - even though He detests the latter. In this passage both "cold" and "hot" are excellent and beneficial, like a refreshing glass of ice water or a good hot bath. So if you are either "hot" or "cold", Jesus is pleased. Just don't be lukewarm!

4. Relying on faulty translations

The example mentioned earlier about the word "touching" illustrates how a faulty translation can sometimes get us into trouble. Another case in point involves the very popular passage on guidance. (Prov. 3:5-6.)

Concerning this passage, Bruce Waltke (as quoted by Garry Friesen in the book Decision Making and the Will Of God notes that "direct thy paths" is not accurate. Looking at the original manuscripts, the translation is "He will make your paths smooth."

The idea of "smooth" or "straight" has nothing to do with guidance but rather means that the Lord will remove the obstacles from our paths and enable us to achieve His desired goals.

Although some Bible translations are clearly better than others, none is perfect. Therefore, it is helpful to read a passage in a variety of translations. When you do so, pay close attention to the differences in words, grammar and sentence structure. That way you'll gain a better understanding of what the author was really trying to say.

5. Reading into scripture

Perhaps you have heard the mocking verse, "Wonderful things in the Bible I see. Things that are put there by you and by me."

It's true that we are often tempted to read our own ideas or agendas into scripture rather than those the author intended to communicate. For example, ever since the early 1950s certain Christians have used III John 2 to support the notion that God wants every Christian to be financially prosperous and physically healthy. Yet Pentecostal scholar Gordon Fee points out that this verse is simply "the standard form of greeting in a personal letter in antiquity." Therefore, "To extend John's wish for Gaius to refer to financial and material prosperity for all Christians of all times is totally foreign to the text."

How can we insure that we understand what the author intended to say? We gain that confidence by practicing the principles described in points 1-4 of this article - all of which relate to discovering the author's intent.

Each of these principles is a safeguard against making the Bible say what we want it to say rather than what the author - and ultimately the Lord Himself - wants to communicate to us.

6. Thinking you can do it all

After launching the Protestant Reformation, one of the first things Martin Luther did was to translate the Bible into the language of the common people. He thought that any farmhand armed with scripture was better than all of the popes or councils or creed in Europe. In fact, the Reformation reaffirmed the truth that we don't have to rely on "experts" to understand God's word.

Yet we would be foolish to take this to an extreme by ignoring the wealth of resources God has provided for us. There are more Bible study tools available today than at any time in history - tools that can make your personal study of scripture more rewarding and enjoyable. Every Christian's library should include at least the following: a good study Bible and two or three modern translations, a one- or two-volume Bible commentary, a one-volume Bible dictionary and a Bible atlas.

Because Bible study is a spiritual as well as a mental exercise, we should also follow Paul's advice to his young disciple, Timothy...(II Tim. 2:7). Notice the two halves of this verse. First, Paul exhorts Timothy to think about what he has said. Studying the Bible requires thought and reflection, using all of the tools and resources God has given us.

Second, Paul tells Timothy it is God who grants understanding. He must reveal those areas of our lives that need to be transformed by His Word and His Spirit. The psalmist writes...(Psa. 119:18). Because the Lord is the only One who can make us see clearly, we dare not study the Bible without asking for His help.

7. Failing to apply what you learn.

You can diligently avoid the first six "deadly sins" of Bible study and still have merely a head knowledge rather than a heart knowledge of God's word. Biblical teaching must filter down into your life for true growth to occur. Ask yoruself, "Am I merely filling up my mind, or am I truly applying what I learn?" Your honest answer to that question can have an enormous impact on both your Bible study and your walk with the Lord.
[by Jack Kuhatschek from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 4, 1996, p. 2-4]

THE PROPER FOCAL POINT
(Psa. 16:8; Col. 3:1; II Pet. 3:13)
Much of man's confusion, bewilderment and frustration stems from having no established goal in life. There is no fixed object for which he can continually strive. Therefore, much energy and talent is wasted in vanities, and thoughts are set on things which soon pass away. What lures one today holds little interest for him tomorrow. He vascillates from one passing fancy to the "latest" that attracts shallow minds.

God intended that man should be motivated by something higher than this world offers; and those who have learned to trush Him lift their asperations to things which have eternal appeal. (Heb. 11:8-10) God's faithful are earth-bound in one sense, but in another, they live in another world...(Heb. 11:16). No man is so blind as he who sees only the present! But these heroes of faith looked beyond this earth for something that gave true meaning to their striving!

The faith of Moses was commended because he chose...(Heb. 11:25-27). And when cares and trials seem overwhelming, we also should look to "him who is invisible". This consolation offers us is shown to be...(Heb. 6:19). We must cultivate such faith that we can see a reward beckoning us, and then tribulations can be borne. We can move more certainly to the promised reward with the right object before us. The Christians is exhorted to be...(Heb. 12:2). When we have the true perspective, the things of the world hold their proper balance.

Paul so often mentioned the focal point of the Christian's faith. (Phili. 3:13-14) Paul had shut out other things while he intently viewed that grand climax of the Christian's race. He also exhorted...(Col. 3:1-2). A long journey home is not nearly so tiring when we contemplate the joyous welcome awaiting!

It is so difficult for most of us to turn our backs on the world, but this is the only way we can keep the Lord before us! The world and God are diametrically opposed to one another, and we can't look to the world and still see God! (I John 2:15) This world is soon to pass away, but God's blessings for His faithful will endure forever!

The servant of God must constantly think on that which God has promised, and expectantly travel the road which will lead to that reward! (II Pet. 3:11-13). The count-down for judgement has begun! Certainty of its coming is not lessened merely because man doesn't know the score! "Of that day and hour knoweth no man; no, not the angels in heaven." But you mark it down - Christ is coming! Just you keep your eyes on the right focal point until He comes, or until death calls you to meet Him.

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