I’d make a terrible missionary. Today at work, I was doing some research about Thai cuisine. I love Asian food (Chinese and Korean especially) and remember trying Thai once while in California. Unusual in that it can be sweet, but otherwise pretty good. Well, while reading on the Internet about the cuisine, I learned that the Thai people like to cook insects.
And not just any insects, but the ones that especially gross me out.
Water bugs.
Blech.
I understand that in some parts of the world it’s considered wasteful not to eat things that are readily available. For me, since cockroaches and their water bug cousins have always terrified me, I think I’d probably vomit if I tried to eat one.
Makes vegetarianism seem appealing.
A college friend, serving in an area of the world that I can’t identify, told me of some of the unusual food items in the country he’s at. Yikes.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Sunday, August 17, 2008
What saith the Scriptures?
One former pastor of mine has said on many occasions that this is the best thing to ask when dealing with tough issues. In my life, I've found this to be great advice. However, be careful when dealing with an issue where Scripture is either ambiguous or silent. On those issues, pray for the Lord's guidance, go where He leads you and take it from there. If others differ, realize that godly people will differ on issues where the Bible isn't clear about them and move on.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Getting encouragement in turbulent times
A Christian friend of mine has undergone an unpleasant divorce, one they didn't want. For some, dwindling bank account looks worrysome in the face of rising gas prices. Tensions in the Middle East are near the boiling point. Perhaps you have a child who has made some bad decisions in life: I am reminded of Carol Kent, a Christian speaker whose son is serving a life sentence for murder. Or perhaps you are a missionary worried about difficulties getting onto the field: you've been traveling to churches for two years and have only been able to raise a third of your support. Or, perhaps you're a Christian imprisoned in a country like China, Vietnam or Cuba. I am also reminded of a good friend of mine, Andy Knight, who survived a horrific fire and is working to get a church started in the Hartford, Conn. area.
What does Scripture tell us about our heartaches? The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:18: "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
Bottom line: it will be worth it all.
What does Scripture tell us about our heartaches? The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:18: "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
Bottom line: it will be worth it all.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Pastors and Politics
Recently, Republican presidential candidate John McCain rejected Pastor John Hagee's endorsement of him. Hagee, who pastors San Antonio megachurch Cornerstone Church, said the endorsement was as an individual and not as a pastor. Apparently, McCain took issue to some of Hagee's comments regarding the Catholic church and the Holocaust. Hard to say. Bottom line is, McCain's people determined that Hagee's comments were simply bad for business.
Hagee, meanwhile, has announced his withdrawal of his endorsement for the Arizona senator.
The un-endorsement is fitting, since Hagee should not have given it in the first place.
I'm not saying it because I'm an independent conservative who has problems with McCain, but rather for these reasons: a pastor's job is three-fold: to evangelize (i.e., preach the Gospel), to edify or encourage other believers through discipleship and to teach the Bible. If anything gets in the way of these, they need to be halted.
Hagee, meanwhile, has announced his withdrawal of his endorsement for the Arizona senator.
The un-endorsement is fitting, since Hagee should not have given it in the first place.
I'm not saying it because I'm an independent conservative who has problems with McCain, but rather for these reasons: a pastor's job is three-fold: to evangelize (i.e., preach the Gospel), to edify or encourage other believers through discipleship and to teach the Bible. If anything gets in the way of these, they need to be halted.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Feeling frustrated in your walk? You might be onto something
It's easy to get discouraged in the Christian walk. I know that happens to me periodically. If you get the chance, check out Bruce Carroll's song "Something Good is Bound to Happen." Basically, the song talks about how the devil doesn't bother the inactive Christians. If you find a lot of things seeming to go wrong, it's possible the devil sees just how much you can do for God and is doing everything he can to hinder you. It's something to ponder and get encouragement from.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Horrible dream about hell
A few nights ago I had one of those dreams that made me so glad I'm a Christian who will never have to experience eternal punishment. In the dream (which, thankfully, I knew was a dream), I died and went to hell. I came face-to-face with this man who apparently was Satan. I remember soemthing about a red face, yellow eyes and horns. I turned away from him and in every direction I turned I came face-to-face with an absolutely hideous creature. The ugliness I saw terrified me, in a way that told me there was zero hope.
It makes me wonder what it's like for people who die and go to hell. I can imagine they find themselves praying someone will revive them while others will quickly pray the sinner's prayer in a vain hope that it's not too late.
As far as hell/lake of fire, here's what I know: It's an eternal assault on your five senses; you'll spend all of eternity reliving all the countless opportunities you had to escape; you grapple with unbelievable, unrelenting agony from extreme heat, thirst, pressure and suffocation.
In other words, hell is as terrible as heaven is wonderful. Do whatever you can to avoid eternal punishment.
It makes me wonder what it's like for people who die and go to hell. I can imagine they find themselves praying someone will revive them while others will quickly pray the sinner's prayer in a vain hope that it's not too late.
As far as hell/lake of fire, here's what I know: It's an eternal assault on your five senses; you'll spend all of eternity reliving all the countless opportunities you had to escape; you grapple with unbelievable, unrelenting agony from extreme heat, thirst, pressure and suffocation.
In other words, hell is as terrible as heaven is wonderful. Do whatever you can to avoid eternal punishment.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Pray for Huang Chuncai
He's a Chinese man who recently received the second of what will be many operations. Doctors are working to remove facial tumors (which originally weighed an astonishing 23 kilograms, or about 50.7 pounds). For Huang, the tumors have been growing since he was a child; he's in his early thirties now. My understanding is that doctors in China removed 13 kilograms in the first operation and have removed more of the tumors in the second operation. Once all the tumors are removed, the next step for Huang will be facial reconstructive surgery. The tumors have stretched out his face, knocked out his teeth and have even blocked one of his eyes.
This link is a recent one. CAUTION: The images are very graphic. If you have a weak stomach, you might want to skip this. I post this because this man's plight needs attention. May God work His way in Huang's crisis.
This link is a recent one. CAUTION: The images are very graphic. If you have a weak stomach, you might want to skip this. I post this because this man's plight needs attention. May God work His way in Huang's crisis.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Discouragement—it’s hardly a new concept
Feeling discouraged? I know I do. There’s plenty for me to feel discouraged about: finances, my career, my family, the place I live, wondering if I’m really making a difference in God’s universe, and so on. Life is like a race where many of us from time to time have felt like quitting.
But if you think you’re alone in your discouragement, think again.
Moses in Numbers 11 was discouraged, even getting frustrated at one point about being in charge of the Israelites and asking God to relieve him of his command. Elijah, that great prophet who brought down fire from heaven to defeat the false prophets of Baal, was discouraged in 1 Kings 19 to the point to where he wanted God to end his life.
Remember Galatians 6:9: “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
But if you think you’re alone in your discouragement, think again.
Moses in Numbers 11 was discouraged, even getting frustrated at one point about being in charge of the Israelites and asking God to relieve him of his command. Elijah, that great prophet who brought down fire from heaven to defeat the false prophets of Baal, was discouraged in 1 Kings 19 to the point to where he wanted God to end his life.
Remember Galatians 6:9: “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Anger and bitterness--they're not worth it
Lately I’ve dealt with anger and bitterness. Anger over the injustice and stupidity I see in the world. Bitterness I’ve felt against that those that have wronged me over the years.
Andy Knight, a good friend of mine from college, said something about bitterness that really made me stop and consider my ways: “Try not to be bitter. It’s highly over rated.”
When you consider what Andy’s been through, it’s an extremely telling statement.
Andy is the survivor of a fire that put third and fourth-degree burns over much of his body. He also pastors in New England, one of the most spiritually-challenging areas of the country.
When I think of Andy’s words, it really puts anger and bitterness into perspective; it’s also a very strong encouragement to not allow these two to get a stranglehold on my own life.
Paul encourages us in Ephesians 4:26-27 to not sin through our anger and to not allow the sun to go down on our wrath (meaning that we should resolve an issue of contention before the completion of the day); by failing to do this, we are allowing the devil to subtly work in our lives. Furthermore, Paul writes in verse 31, we are to get rid of anger.
James writes in James 1:19-20 that it’s imperative to be slow to anger, since our anger does not bring about the type of righteous life God wants for us.
As far as bitterness go, Paul tells us, again, in Ephesians 4:31, to get rid of it. We also read in Hebrews 12:14-17:
“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
“looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
“lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
“For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.”
Bottom line: if you allow anger and bitterness to govern your life, you as a Christian are cheating yourself out of the type of walk with God that God so desperately wants for you.
Andy Knight, a good friend of mine from college, said something about bitterness that really made me stop and consider my ways: “Try not to be bitter. It’s highly over rated.”
When you consider what Andy’s been through, it’s an extremely telling statement.
Andy is the survivor of a fire that put third and fourth-degree burns over much of his body. He also pastors in New England, one of the most spiritually-challenging areas of the country.
When I think of Andy’s words, it really puts anger and bitterness into perspective; it’s also a very strong encouragement to not allow these two to get a stranglehold on my own life.
Paul encourages us in Ephesians 4:26-27 to not sin through our anger and to not allow the sun to go down on our wrath (meaning that we should resolve an issue of contention before the completion of the day); by failing to do this, we are allowing the devil to subtly work in our lives. Furthermore, Paul writes in verse 31, we are to get rid of anger.
James writes in James 1:19-20 that it’s imperative to be slow to anger, since our anger does not bring about the type of righteous life God wants for us.
As far as bitterness go, Paul tells us, again, in Ephesians 4:31, to get rid of it. We also read in Hebrews 12:14-17:
“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
“looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
“lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
“For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.”
Bottom line: if you allow anger and bitterness to govern your life, you as a Christian are cheating yourself out of the type of walk with God that God so desperately wants for you.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Happy Easter!
I hope everybody had a great Easter. This is one of the most sacred days on the Christian calendar, along with Christmas. I find it fascinating that the Russian word for Sunday is Воскресение, which, literally, means “Resurrection”.
The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:14 that if there had not been a resurrection of Jesus Christ, then our faith would be in vain. We take great comfort knowing that the tomb is indeed empty. He left the tomb, ministered to His disciples, was seen by 500 witnesses and, 40 days later, ascended up to heaven.
And someday, He’ll return. Ever so, come quickly, Lord Jesus.
The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:14 that if there had not been a resurrection of Jesus Christ, then our faith would be in vain. We take great comfort knowing that the tomb is indeed empty. He left the tomb, ministered to His disciples, was seen by 500 witnesses and, 40 days later, ascended up to heaven.
And someday, He’ll return. Ever so, come quickly, Lord Jesus.
Friday, March 21, 2008
God’s concept of time
We as humans try hard to understand God’s concept of time, but it’s virtually impossible in these finite minds of ours. I do think, though, that in heaven we will have no need for clocks or wristwatches.
2 Peter 3:8-9 tells us that to God, a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years is as a day. What does this mean? I suppose it means that to God, time is something that cannot be measured. To Him, what seems to us like a two-minute task of brushing our teeth takes place in the same time frame as the 400 years Israel spent in captivity in Egypt.
Much is made about how terrible the world is getting and how God needs to initiate the rapture so that, in 1,007 years, we can finally relax and forever enjoy New Jerusalem. To us, the rapture is imminent. To God, though, it’s possible that in His mercy He can lovingly wait several thousand more years before starting the end. All we know for sure is that it’ll all happen in His timing.
As far as God’s concept of time, my speculation is that He is able to watch all of the world’s events—past, present and future—at once. Though it’s been 3,000 years since King David ruled over Israel, it’s possible that in God’s frame of mind it’s happening right now. think of it as a giant, cosmic gridded television screen. At the very beginning are the actions of Adam and Eve and at the very end is Satan finally being thrown into the Lake of Fire as his post-millennial war is thwarted.
2 Peter 3:8-9 tells us that to God, a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years is as a day. What does this mean? I suppose it means that to God, time is something that cannot be measured. To Him, what seems to us like a two-minute task of brushing our teeth takes place in the same time frame as the 400 years Israel spent in captivity in Egypt.
Much is made about how terrible the world is getting and how God needs to initiate the rapture so that, in 1,007 years, we can finally relax and forever enjoy New Jerusalem. To us, the rapture is imminent. To God, though, it’s possible that in His mercy He can lovingly wait several thousand more years before starting the end. All we know for sure is that it’ll all happen in His timing.
As far as God’s concept of time, my speculation is that He is able to watch all of the world’s events—past, present and future—at once. Though it’s been 3,000 years since King David ruled over Israel, it’s possible that in God’s frame of mind it’s happening right now. think of it as a giant, cosmic gridded television screen. At the very beginning are the actions of Adam and Eve and at the very end is Satan finally being thrown into the Lake of Fire as his post-millennial war is thwarted.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Extraterrestrial life from a Christian's perspective
If ever there was the question that would prompt an “Only God knows” reply, it’s this one:
“Are we alone in the universe?”
This is a question that’s been asked long before I was born in 1973, and it’ll be asked long after I’m dead. Millions of dollars have been spent in the private, non-profit Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) program, which is designed to “listen” to sounds in deep space. The hope is that some of those sounds might come from an intelligent source, thus proving that there is, indeed, intelligent life out there. (Some say that we are desperate to find extraterrestrial intelligent life since virtually no intelligent life exists on earth).
One of my sons told me that since there are many planets outside our solar system and, doubtlessly, billions upon billions of other planets yet to be discovered, there has to be intelligent life in the universe. If you’d asked me 20 years ago, my answer would’ve been an emphatic no. Now, it’s not something I can answer with a yes or no; my answer is more likely to be somewhere between It’s possible and I don’t know.
Years ago, while a student at a Christian college, I posed this question to a man who, today, is a spiritual mentor and the older brother I never had. “Do you think there’s intelligent life out there?” I asked him.
“That’s an irrelevant question,” he replied.
“Why?”
“Because, if God had thought it was something important enough for us to know, he would’ve mentioned it to us in the Bible. Scripture is silent on the issue.”
One Christian minister pointed out that if you go to the library to read about UFOs (unidentified flying objects), you will have to go to the occult section. Is it that simple, that Satan and his minions disguise themselves this way? I’m not convinced. For now, whether or not there’s intelligent life outside earth is a question that we’ll have to leave up to God. In due time, He’ll reveal it to us.
“Are we alone in the universe?”
This is a question that’s been asked long before I was born in 1973, and it’ll be asked long after I’m dead. Millions of dollars have been spent in the private, non-profit Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) program, which is designed to “listen” to sounds in deep space. The hope is that some of those sounds might come from an intelligent source, thus proving that there is, indeed, intelligent life out there. (Some say that we are desperate to find extraterrestrial intelligent life since virtually no intelligent life exists on earth).
One of my sons told me that since there are many planets outside our solar system and, doubtlessly, billions upon billions of other planets yet to be discovered, there has to be intelligent life in the universe. If you’d asked me 20 years ago, my answer would’ve been an emphatic no. Now, it’s not something I can answer with a yes or no; my answer is more likely to be somewhere between It’s possible and I don’t know.
Years ago, while a student at a Christian college, I posed this question to a man who, today, is a spiritual mentor and the older brother I never had. “Do you think there’s intelligent life out there?” I asked him.
“That’s an irrelevant question,” he replied.
“Why?”
“Because, if God had thought it was something important enough for us to know, he would’ve mentioned it to us in the Bible. Scripture is silent on the issue.”
One Christian minister pointed out that if you go to the library to read about UFOs (unidentified flying objects), you will have to go to the occult section. Is it that simple, that Satan and his minions disguise themselves this way? I’m not convinced. For now, whether or not there’s intelligent life outside earth is a question that we’ll have to leave up to God. In due time, He’ll reveal it to us.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Whom would Jesus vote for?
Mike Huckabee? Barack Obama? Mitt Romney? Hillary Clinton? John McCain? Ron Paul? John Edwards? None of the above?
It really is an irrelevant question when you think of it. Jesus came to preach the Gospel, teach His disciples, die for our sins, rise again and give the Great Commission. Not to campaign for a candidate or endorse anyone.
It really is an irrelevant question when you think of it. Jesus came to preach the Gospel, teach His disciples, die for our sins, rise again and give the Great Commission. Not to campaign for a candidate or endorse anyone.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Comprehending God
When I attended Pensacola Christian College, I knew one student named Calel. The way he pronounced it, it rhymed with “pale”. I asked him once about the name’s origin. He explained that it’s Hebrew for a very fascinating phrase: “All of God.”
Calel’s name makes me think of just how vast and infinite God is. In fact, the Bible tells us in 2 Chronicles 6:18 that the universe cannot contain God. It really makes me think of just how dreadfully short we are of really even beginning to even remotely approach scratching the surface of understanding God. For now, we are given the Bible, which is often turned into the popular acronym Basic Information Before Leaving Earth. Heaven is likely to be the place where the real learning begins. It’s entirely possible that throughout eternity, Christians will be students at New Jerusalem University.
Calel’s name makes me think of just how vast and infinite God is. In fact, the Bible tells us in 2 Chronicles 6:18 that the universe cannot contain God. It really makes me think of just how dreadfully short we are of really even beginning to even remotely approach scratching the surface of understanding God. For now, we are given the Bible, which is often turned into the popular acronym Basic Information Before Leaving Earth. Heaven is likely to be the place where the real learning begins. It’s entirely possible that throughout eternity, Christians will be students at New Jerusalem University.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
The Biblical way of dealing with regrets
I have many, many regrets. Some silly, some not. There are a few that stem from incidents a decade or so ago; thinking about them still makes me cringe. Of course, Satan likes to use regrets to hinder evangelism efforts and hurt our walks with God.
The Bible talks in James 4:7 about how Satan will flee from us if we resist him. Here’s something poignant that goes along with that: “The next time Satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future.”
The Bible talks in James 4:7 about how Satan will flee from us if we resist him. Here’s something poignant that goes along with that: “The next time Satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future.”
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
The ‘E’s of Christianity
If we could sum up Christianity, it could be condensed into two E’s: To Evangelize the lost and to Edify (or Encourage) other believers.
This coincides with what Jesus describes as The Greatest Commandment (Matthew 22:34-40, Mark 12:28-34 and Luke 10:25-37): to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and minds. From this one commandment all the other commandments flow.
This coincides with what Jesus describes as The Greatest Commandment (Matthew 22:34-40, Mark 12:28-34 and Luke 10:25-37): to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and minds. From this one commandment all the other commandments flow.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Accountability partner
Recently, I got an accountability partner, a college friend named Jason. We’ve discussed a few issues and will continue to do so. I have Jason because I know I’m an imperfect person and that there are times when a male friend is needed to discuss issues that I might deal with.
Accountability is something we all should practice. I understand that many churches have things set up now where even the pastor is accountable to someone for his actions. This is a good thing, because we’ve seen the disasters in the lives of famous ministers when they’re not kept accountable. One was caught with a prostitute while others have gotten into affairs and have mismanaged money entrusted to them. It reminds me of that adage: absolute power (i.e., zero accountability) corrupts absolutely. In the Bible, when God saw that David wasn’t going to get out of his spiral after his affair with Bathsheba and his ordering her husband’s murder, God sent the prophet Nathan. Nathan bluntly told David, “Thou art the man.”
Accountability is something we all should practice. I understand that many churches have things set up now where even the pastor is accountable to someone for his actions. This is a good thing, because we’ve seen the disasters in the lives of famous ministers when they’re not kept accountable. One was caught with a prostitute while others have gotten into affairs and have mismanaged money entrusted to them. It reminds me of that adage: absolute power (i.e., zero accountability) corrupts absolutely. In the Bible, when God saw that David wasn’t going to get out of his spiral after his affair with Bathsheba and his ordering her husband’s murder, God sent the prophet Nathan. Nathan bluntly told David, “Thou art the man.”
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Comments regarding that church in Kansas
I run a satirical blog and had considered a counter offensive against the crazies at that anti-gay Kansas church by satiring them. My wife advised against it, saying that an extreme, hateful church like that isn't worthy of the attention from satire. With that, any future comments I have about Pastor Freddy's church will be posted here.
Update on My Two Shekels column
In the near future, My Two Shekels will resume at one of its former homes, www.saworship.com. I had temporarily discontinued it due to my family's financial situation and a feeling that I should severely curtail the writing I do for free. But after praying about it and discussing it with my wife, I contacted my editor at Saworship and expressed a willingness to continue. She's willing, so soon new MTS columns will be seen there. This blog, of course, will continue and consist of takes on Christian issues that are too short for columns, as well as additional comments I may have on columns.
For those of you who enjoy MTS and are glad it's going to resume, be sure to send a word of thank you to my friend Andy Knight at his Website Faith on Fire. While talking to him and his ministry in Connecticut and hearing of his burdens, it became clear to me that when it comes to ministerial writing, it is far more important to minister through the written word than it is to have a check to take to the bank. In the near future, I hope to write a profile on Andy.
For those of you who enjoy MTS and are glad it's going to resume, be sure to send a word of thank you to my friend Andy Knight at his Website Faith on Fire. While talking to him and his ministry in Connecticut and hearing of his burdens, it became clear to me that when it comes to ministerial writing, it is far more important to minister through the written word than it is to have a check to take to the bank. In the near future, I hope to write a profile on Andy.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Paying taxes: What Would Jesus Do?
So, actor Wesley Snipes is on trial for alleged tax fraud. The federal government says that Snipes owes millions of dollars in taxes that he improperly claimed as refunds. Snipes’ attorneys deny the accusations and apparently are so confident of their client’s innocence that they didn’t even offer up a defense. One report says Snipes has argued that he was the victim of bad tax advice while another says that his attorneys are arguing that the federal government has no legal authority to collect taxes. As I get ready to file my own taxes this year (I already have my freelance writing records in order), I am reminded of what Jesus said about paying taxes in Matthew 22:21: Render unto Caesar (in our case, the federal government) what belongs to Caesar and unto God what belongs to God.
In other words, save yourself a lot of money and legal headaches and just pay your taxes.
In other words, save yourself a lot of money and legal headaches and just pay your taxes.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Idiot, ignorant Kansas "church" sounds off on Heath Ledger
So, the folks at that crazy Kansas “Baptist” church* believe that God hates homosexuals…and they plan on protesting at the funeral of the late actor Heath Ledger, whom they have a special hatred for because of his role as a closeted homosexual cowboy in the film Brokeback Mountain. One of the members of the church has even proclaimed that Heath Ledger is in hell because of his views on and promotion of the gay lifestyle. And if that’s not enough, they’ve even written an open letter to the Ledger family. (The family has been keeping the details of the actor’s funeral a secret so as not to let the church and other crazies out there go and protest).
Silly me, I thought people went to eternal punishment for rejecting Jesus Christ as their personal savior. I imagine there are far more heterosexuals in hell than there are those who are gay (especially when you consider that those who are gay make up about one to three percent of the population).
In the past, I’ve perused over this church’s doctrinal statements. If anything, it’s a horrible caricature of Christianity—a works salvation taken to extremes. As a Christian, I disagree with the homosexuality lifestyle. However, I don’t hate gays and I’ve even worked with gay people (generally, they are among the nicest people I’ve ever known). We really need to step up our efforts to evangelize the gay community and show them who Jesus really is.
If this “church” is a Christian church, then I’m Brad Pitt.
*I have purposely not disclosed the name of the church or its Website. It’s easy enough to find, but I prefer not to give them the pleasure of being named.
Silly me, I thought people went to eternal punishment for rejecting Jesus Christ as their personal savior. I imagine there are far more heterosexuals in hell than there are those who are gay (especially when you consider that those who are gay make up about one to three percent of the population).
In the past, I’ve perused over this church’s doctrinal statements. If anything, it’s a horrible caricature of Christianity—a works salvation taken to extremes. As a Christian, I disagree with the homosexuality lifestyle. However, I don’t hate gays and I’ve even worked with gay people (generally, they are among the nicest people I’ve ever known). We really need to step up our efforts to evangelize the gay community and show them who Jesus really is.
If this “church” is a Christian church, then I’m Brad Pitt.
*I have purposely not disclosed the name of the church or its Website. It’s easy enough to find, but I prefer not to give them the pleasure of being named.
Monday, January 28, 2008
My friend, Andy Knight, and his ministry
Andy Knight is a friend of mine from college who has quite an inspirational story (we'll be talking about him more on this blog in the future). Andy's a pastor in Connecticut, in an area of the United States (New England) that is consiered especially hard to reach with the Gospel.
Also, besides being a diabetic, Andy survived a horrific fire a number of years ago. Following the mantra of the late basketball coach Jim Valvano, Andy doesn't give up.
And he's not a bad barber, either! Andy was my barber at college and once, when money was tight, accepted a payment of three packages of Ramen noodles.
Here's a link to his Website, Faith on Fire. His is a ministry I pray for frequently.
God bless you, Andy.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Money Matters
Sometimes, when driving home from work, I’ll listen to Crown Financial Ministries’ program Money Matters. Very informational and always a blessing to hear. It’s really amazing how God indeed can use money to teach us more about the relationship we are to have with Him. If you get a chance, visit Crown Financial by clicking on this link.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Answers in heaven
There are many questions I have for God…
…why did my Uncle Calvin, my maternal grandparents’ firstborn, die in infancy? He could’ve really helped out the family as an extra pair of hands during the Great Depression.
…why did Kimberly, one of my older sisters, die in infancy?
…why was my cousin get killed by a drunk driver (an illegal immigrant with no license or insurance, who left a party where no concerted effort was made to stop him from driving)?
…why do young children die tragically while some of the most hedonistic athletes and musicians live to a ripe old age?
The answer to these questions can be found in a song we sang at church years ago. The song, Farther Along, was written and composed by J.R. Baxter and W.B. Stevens.
First stanza:
Tempted and tried, we’re oft made to wonder
Why it should be thus all the day long,
While there are others living about us,
Never molested, though in the wrong.
Second stanza:
When death has come and taken our loved ones,
It leaves our home so lonely and drear,
Then do we wonder why others prosper
Living so wicked year after year.
Third stanza:
Faithful ’til death, said our loving Master
A few more days to labor and wait,
Toils of the road will then seem as nothing
As we sweet through the beautiful gate.
Fourth stanza:
When we see Jesus, coming in glory,
When He comes from His home in the sky,
Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion,
We’ll understand it all by and by.
Chorus:
Farther along we’ll know all about it,
Farther along we’ll understand why;
Cheer up my brother, live in the sunshine,
We’ll understand it all by and by.
As we can see from the song, though the answers may have to wait until heaven, it’ll be well worth it. Everything is in God’s control.
…why did my Uncle Calvin, my maternal grandparents’ firstborn, die in infancy? He could’ve really helped out the family as an extra pair of hands during the Great Depression.
…why did Kimberly, one of my older sisters, die in infancy?
…why was my cousin get killed by a drunk driver (an illegal immigrant with no license or insurance, who left a party where no concerted effort was made to stop him from driving)?
…why do young children die tragically while some of the most hedonistic athletes and musicians live to a ripe old age?
The answer to these questions can be found in a song we sang at church years ago. The song, Farther Along, was written and composed by J.R. Baxter and W.B. Stevens.
First stanza:
Tempted and tried, we’re oft made to wonder
Why it should be thus all the day long,
While there are others living about us,
Never molested, though in the wrong.
Second stanza:
When death has come and taken our loved ones,
It leaves our home so lonely and drear,
Then do we wonder why others prosper
Living so wicked year after year.
Third stanza:
Faithful ’til death, said our loving Master
A few more days to labor and wait,
Toils of the road will then seem as nothing
As we sweet through the beautiful gate.
Fourth stanza:
When we see Jesus, coming in glory,
When He comes from His home in the sky,
Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion,
We’ll understand it all by and by.
Chorus:
Farther along we’ll know all about it,
Farther along we’ll understand why;
Cheer up my brother, live in the sunshine,
We’ll understand it all by and by.
As we can see from the song, though the answers may have to wait until heaven, it’ll be well worth it. Everything is in God’s control.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Life is a race
One of the things I hated most while in the Army was the Army Physical Fitness Test. This test, done about once every two to three months, was the Army’s way of tracking your physical fitness. We were given two minutes to perform as many push-ups as possible and then two minutes for as many sit-ups as possible. After that, there was a two-mile run to be completed in as little time as possible.
Of all these, I hated the two-mile run. As I got closer to my discharge in 2000 and exercised less, this became tougher to do. Even when I was in shape, by the third lap I could feel my lungs burn as I encouraged myself by reaching the halfway point. Once I completed the sixth lap, I’d tell myself I had only two left, and once the seventh lap was done, I’d start to jog faster as I completed the final lap. In the last 100 yards I’d sprint. When the run was over, I was very glad.
Our Christian walk is like a race. We get spiritually winded and fatigued as we run, wanting desperately to either slow to walk or even quit altogether. Those who’ve completed the race and are in heaven now cheer us on from the stands of heaven, encouraging us to fight the good fight, finish our course and keep the faith.
Paul writes in Galatians 6:9 that we are not to be weary in this life, and that we’ll reap spiritual benefits if we don’t quit.
If you feel discouraged with your walk or frustrated with how tough life can be, take encouragement in knowing that once this life is over, we’ll have all eternity to relax.
Of all these, I hated the two-mile run. As I got closer to my discharge in 2000 and exercised less, this became tougher to do. Even when I was in shape, by the third lap I could feel my lungs burn as I encouraged myself by reaching the halfway point. Once I completed the sixth lap, I’d tell myself I had only two left, and once the seventh lap was done, I’d start to jog faster as I completed the final lap. In the last 100 yards I’d sprint. When the run was over, I was very glad.
Our Christian walk is like a race. We get spiritually winded and fatigued as we run, wanting desperately to either slow to walk or even quit altogether. Those who’ve completed the race and are in heaven now cheer us on from the stands of heaven, encouraging us to fight the good fight, finish our course and keep the faith.
Paul writes in Galatians 6:9 that we are not to be weary in this life, and that we’ll reap spiritual benefits if we don’t quit.
If you feel discouraged with your walk or frustrated with how tough life can be, take encouragement in knowing that once this life is over, we’ll have all eternity to relax.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Seek the Great Physician if depressed
Depressed? Feel alone? Consider this: both Elijah and Jonah, prophets mightily used by God, were depressed to the point where they wanted God to end their lives. King Solomon had his fill of money, fame, women and materialism and couldn’t have been more unhappy. Peter was so upset with himself over his denial of Jesus that he returned, defeated, to his life as a Galilean fisherman. Even John the Baptist got discouraged. Remember that if these men of God could get discouraged, there’s nothing wrong with you feeling discouraged and depressed. Remember, Hebrews 13:5 says: “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for [God] hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Having a proper relationship with God
Things have been bumpy the past year or so in my life in several areas: husband, father, writer, financial provider. There have been many times where I’ve almost been in tears asking God questions like “Why?” Why doesn’t my career seem to be progressing faster? Why don’t I ever have time to get things done? Why can’t I find a job that pays the bills and allows me to write in my free time?
I have learned something about asking God “Why?” If you’re not spending time with Him daily in prayer, Bible reading and meditation, then you can’t really ask these types of questions. To pray, read the Bible and ponder on God is to draw closer to Him. And to draw closer to Him is to better understand His will for your life.
It reminds me a lot of the child who ventures off on their own, has no contact with their parents for two years, gets into some type of financial problem and calls their parents and asks for $1,000 to keep their car from being repossessed. God’s not a genie. He loves us and wants a relationship with us. Don’t wait until a crisis to spend time with God, and don’t ever get to the point where before reading your Bible you first have to dust off the cover.
I have learned something about asking God “Why?” If you’re not spending time with Him daily in prayer, Bible reading and meditation, then you can’t really ask these types of questions. To pray, read the Bible and ponder on God is to draw closer to Him. And to draw closer to Him is to better understand His will for your life.
It reminds me a lot of the child who ventures off on their own, has no contact with their parents for two years, gets into some type of financial problem and calls their parents and asks for $1,000 to keep their car from being repossessed. God’s not a genie. He loves us and wants a relationship with us. Don’t wait until a crisis to spend time with God, and don’t ever get to the point where before reading your Bible you first have to dust off the cover.
Welcome to My Two Shekels!
My name is Richard Zowie, and for several years I've written a Christian issues column titled My Two Shekels. It has appeared in publications in Texas and in Michigan. This blog's purpose is to provide encouragement to Christians out there through each posting. Eventually, this may turn into a place where I give an opinion on an issue and leave it up to readers to comment. If you wish, you can post a comment or drop me a line at mytwoshekels@gmail.com.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
