Christians Should Feel Complimented
Nice insights from Don Feder: "What really enrages the Hollywood left is the realization that, more than any other group in our society, evangelical Christians—who now constitute the largest voting bloc—stand in the way of its political agenda: abortion on demand, a contraceptive culture, erotic indoctrination masquerading as sex education, universal day care, the complete societal acceptance of homosexuality and hate-crimes legislation that criminalizes religious speech. By attacking Christians, Hollywood is advancing its agenda... Over the past 40 years, Hollywood has been primarily responsible for the rapid degeneration of our culture. Modern cinema is filled with violence, sadism, sex at its most animalistic, crudeness, nihilism and despair. If Hollywood wants to treat Christianity as the antithesis of all it holds dear, Christians should feel complimented."
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Teaching Others to Pray
Here's a too-short article about teaching others to pray. I think it would be better titled, "Coaching Prayer Leaders."
Here's a too-short article about teaching others to pray. I think it would be better titled, "Coaching Prayer Leaders."
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Start Leading Yourself
Bill Hybels' article "The Art of Self-Leadership" is a must-read. I've read a lot of material on leadership, and this is a classic. Don't get hung up if you're not a pastor -- people reading this blog are leaders, and Hybel's counsel does apply.
Print it off, read it twice today. Think about what you need to do differently and start doing it.
Then make a plan to reread it in a month.
Bill Hybels' article "The Art of Self-Leadership" is a must-read. I've read a lot of material on leadership, and this is a classic. Don't get hung up if you're not a pastor -- people reading this blog are leaders, and Hybel's counsel does apply.
Print it off, read it twice today. Think about what you need to do differently and start doing it.
Then make a plan to reread it in a month.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Listen to CT Teaching Online!
I strongly encourage you to check out the Cross Trainers teaching, available online. Mike Swaim's March 1 class on Peter is dynamite! The most recent four weeks will be available online, updated every Monday.
I strongly encourage you to check out the Cross Trainers teaching, available online. Mike Swaim's March 1 class on Peter is dynamite! The most recent four weeks will be available online, updated every Monday.
What Makes for Church Growth?
Todd Rhodes has a collected some information about the differences between large (growing) and small (not growing) churches. Summary:
-- Growing churches are most likely to be theologically conservative, with members actively participating in ministry, usually with local authority and raising up pastors/staff from within. Oh, it helps a lot to have a pastor who has been there a long time.
Todd Rhodes has a collected some information about the differences between large (growing) and small (not growing) churches. Summary:
-- Growing churches are most likely to be theologically conservative, with members actively participating in ministry, usually with local authority and raising up pastors/staff from within. Oh, it helps a lot to have a pastor who has been there a long time.
Raising Boys
Doug Giles reminds us that God made men to thrive in tough conditions in his column, "Raising Boys that Feminists Will Hate":
"First off, parents, please note that the cradle God created for His firstborn was rough country—a thorny, critter-laden and butt-kicking badland. God wanted His boy brought up in undomesticated surroundings. The feral fashioned something in God’s first boy, Adam, that Xbox, the mall and cell phones just couldn’t provide to the charge under His tutelage.
Yeah, God’s earthy 2IC was directly connected to the Spirit of the Wild. Adam lived in primitive partnership with untamed beasts, birds, big lizards and monster sharks. This is the way it was. And God said, “It is good!” Imagine that: good being equated to having no anti-bacterial gel, no bike helmets, no Trans Fatty acids, no poodles, no motorized scooters, no concrete and no Will and Grace. I know this doesn’t sound like “paradise” for postmodern pantywaists that are immoral, lazy, stupid and fat, but it was God’s—and His primitive son’s—idea of “Yippee Land.”
Doug Giles reminds us that God made men to thrive in tough conditions in his column, "Raising Boys that Feminists Will Hate":
"First off, parents, please note that the cradle God created for His firstborn was rough country—a thorny, critter-laden and butt-kicking badland. God wanted His boy brought up in undomesticated surroundings. The feral fashioned something in God’s first boy, Adam, that Xbox, the mall and cell phones just couldn’t provide to the charge under His tutelage.
Yeah, God’s earthy 2IC was directly connected to the Spirit of the Wild. Adam lived in primitive partnership with untamed beasts, birds, big lizards and monster sharks. This is the way it was. And God said, “It is good!” Imagine that: good being equated to having no anti-bacterial gel, no bike helmets, no Trans Fatty acids, no poodles, no motorized scooters, no concrete and no Will and Grace. I know this doesn’t sound like “paradise” for postmodern pantywaists that are immoral, lazy, stupid and fat, but it was God’s—and His primitive son’s—idea of “Yippee Land.”
American Manhood
W. Thomas Smith, Jr. writes about his confidence in American Manhood, based on what he sees in school wrestling and football season. I appreciated what Smith says about developing heart and head - the combination of passion, bravery, and patience to wait for the right time to act. This is congruent with what I've learned from retired members of our special forces -- only those with strong moral character and enormous self-control are able to perform at that level, under pressure.
May every husband and father take this to heart.
W. Thomas Smith, Jr. writes about his confidence in American Manhood, based on what he sees in school wrestling and football season. I appreciated what Smith says about developing heart and head - the combination of passion, bravery, and patience to wait for the right time to act. This is congruent with what I've learned from retired members of our special forces -- only those with strong moral character and enormous self-control are able to perform at that level, under pressure.
May every husband and father take this to heart.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Music is Not Neutral
Those of you who are interested in worship and music should read this blog post by Todd Rhoades, "Is Music Really Neutral?"
Those of you who are interested in worship and music should read this blog post by Todd Rhoades, "Is Music Really Neutral?"
Don't Get Stuck in Haran
Pastor David Anderson reminds us not to settle for less than what God has called us to.
In Genesis 11, Terah, the father of Abram, sets out from Ur to go the land of Canaan. But along the way he settled in Haran and stopped short of his call to get to Canaan.
"Some of us have set out for the land of ministry, but we've settled for the land of church activity."
Let's ask ourselves today, men, "How am I doing? Where have I settled for less than God's calling?"
Pastor David Anderson reminds us not to settle for less than what God has called us to.
In Genesis 11, Terah, the father of Abram, sets out from Ur to go the land of Canaan. But along the way he settled in Haran and stopped short of his call to get to Canaan.
"Some of us have set out for the land of ministry, but we've settled for the land of church activity."
Let's ask ourselves today, men, "How am I doing? Where have I settled for less than God's calling?"
Saturday, March 04, 2006
The Problem with Building Insular Communities
Tom Monaghan is spending several hundred million dollars to create Ave Maria, an entirely Catholic community near Naples, Florida. A cathedral will be at the center of the city, and you won't be able to buy pornography or birth control there.
It's a human tendency to surround ourselves with people "just like us," to keep out the bad people, and to create gated communities. Christians like to create Christian ghettos. You can look at the Christian ad books and pretty much shop for every item and service you need, only at businesses run by Christians.
Jesus didn't promote insular community building. He said "Go" not huddle. He tells us that we are salt and light in the midst of the world, in the world but not of it. Ave Maria and Christian ghettos may be comfortable, but they're not our calling, men.
Tom Monaghan is spending several hundred million dollars to create Ave Maria, an entirely Catholic community near Naples, Florida. A cathedral will be at the center of the city, and you won't be able to buy pornography or birth control there.
It's a human tendency to surround ourselves with people "just like us," to keep out the bad people, and to create gated communities. Christians like to create Christian ghettos. You can look at the Christian ad books and pretty much shop for every item and service you need, only at businesses run by Christians.
Jesus didn't promote insular community building. He said "Go" not huddle. He tells us that we are salt and light in the midst of the world, in the world but not of it. Ave Maria and Christian ghettos may be comfortable, but they're not our calling, men.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
What Would Jesus Preach In Your Church?
Jim Martin asks this question, and draws his answer from the Gospel accounts of how Jesus interacted with religious leaders.
Read the whole thing here.
Jim Martin asks this question, and draws his answer from the Gospel accounts of how Jesus interacted with religious leaders.
You do not evaluate your lives the way I do. I am more concerned about whether
or not these people love God and people than anything else.
You do not evaluate your church the way I do. I am more concerned about you being my presence in this community rather than whether or not you may be happy with the way things are going.
You do not evaluate spiritual maturity the way I do.
Some of you have been Christians for a very long time. You need to be more
mindful of the younger and less mature. Some of you have been Christians for a
lesser amount of time. You need to be grateful that your forefathers pointed you
to me. All of you need to remember that the bottom line is loving God and loving
the people who you interact with.
You do not evaluate truth the way I do.
Sermon messages are not good if they seem to pass the popularity contest. There
were times when I spoke and people walked away, wanting nothing more to do with
me.
You do not ask the right questions. You need to be asking in your families, in your church meetings, and among your leadership these questions: "What does Jesus want us to do? What would he do? What do we know about him that might help us know what to do?"
Read the whole thing here.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
How's Your Stillness?
"Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)
There's not a lot in this culture that promotes this kind of stillness. Most of the time it's MORE FASTER.
It is interesting to note the popularity of yoga -- an exercise and meditation system that promotes s-l-0-w. I suspect this is because it's an appealing alternative to MORE FASTER. I'm ok with the physical yoga exercises, but not the meditative side, because they encourage you focus on yourself and on nothingness. This is not Christian meditation at all. Christian meditation is focusing on the Lord through His Word, His Creation, His beauty.
Stillness is not laziness, men, but rest in Christ. Stillness takes some startup energy, and some focusing energy so we don't run off with every distraction. Stillness is necessary for us to be the spiritual leaders in our homes and communities that we need to be. Stillness before the Lord will recharge our souls and give us the deep wisdom that we need.
I encourage you to create space and time for this stillness before the Lord. If you won't do it for yourself, then do it for your wife and children and the people around you.
"Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)
There's not a lot in this culture that promotes this kind of stillness. Most of the time it's MORE FASTER.
It is interesting to note the popularity of yoga -- an exercise and meditation system that promotes s-l-0-w. I suspect this is because it's an appealing alternative to MORE FASTER. I'm ok with the physical yoga exercises, but not the meditative side, because they encourage you focus on yourself and on nothingness. This is not Christian meditation at all. Christian meditation is focusing on the Lord through His Word, His Creation, His beauty.
Stillness is not laziness, men, but rest in Christ. Stillness takes some startup energy, and some focusing energy so we don't run off with every distraction. Stillness is necessary for us to be the spiritual leaders in our homes and communities that we need to be. Stillness before the Lord will recharge our souls and give us the deep wisdom that we need.
I encourage you to create space and time for this stillness before the Lord. If you won't do it for yourself, then do it for your wife and children and the people around you.
Friday, February 17, 2006
You Aren't Going to Compete Against These Guys, Are You?
http://www.familymanweb.com/hubbyoftheyear.htm
Compare with our instruction in Ephesians 5:25-33:
"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband."
http://www.familymanweb.com/hubbyoftheyear.htm
Compare with our instruction in Ephesians 5:25-33:
"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband."
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Making Prayer Part of Your Regular Family Life
A brother pointed me to this nice list of 15 ways to weave prayer into your regular family life. Recommended. As our children get to be older teens, it's encouraging to see their capacity and capacity for prayer develop. We're the spiritual leaders, men, so set the pace!
A brother pointed me to this nice list of 15 ways to weave prayer into your regular family life. Recommended. As our children get to be older teens, it's encouraging to see their capacity and capacity for prayer develop. We're the spiritual leaders, men, so set the pace!
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Free Bible Teaching Tips Collection
Some of you are Bible teachers -- check out this free ebook of collected teaching tips at my other blog: http://teachtochangelives.blogspot.com
Some of you are Bible teachers -- check out this free ebook of collected teaching tips at my other blog: http://teachtochangelives.blogspot.com
Saturday, February 11, 2006
I'm Not An Economist, But I Blog Like One on TV
I think part of the reason economic news is rarely given to the population at large is because we can't handle more than sound-bytes. And few of us have a good framework to analyze and understand the little bits of news we get.
There's plenty of handwringing and noise over the US trade deficit. So I found this short article helpful to understanding how to think about it intelligently.
I think part of the reason economic news is rarely given to the population at large is because we can't handle more than sound-bytes. And few of us have a good framework to analyze and understand the little bits of news we get.
There's plenty of handwringing and noise over the US trade deficit. So I found this short article helpful to understanding how to think about it intelligently.
Evangelicals and Environmentalists
There is growing media attention on prominent evangelical leaders who are pushing "pro-environment" platforms and legislation. Steven Hayward has an excellent analysis of the past history of the groups, and how they are finding common ground.
There is growing media attention on prominent evangelical leaders who are pushing "pro-environment" platforms and legislation. Steven Hayward has an excellent analysis of the past history of the groups, and how they are finding common ground.
Did You Know This Information?
I was interested to learn that the cartoons caricaturizing Muhammed published in Denmark that have led to riots in four countries were printed ... five months ago. And reprinted a week later in a major Egyptian paper, without causing a ruckus.
It wasn't until Danish Imam Abu Laban worked at, augmented the original cartoons with fabricated pictures, and enlisted Al Jazeera and leaders in the Middle East, that the riots came.
Five months.
I was interested to learn that the cartoons caricaturizing Muhammed published in Denmark that have led to riots in four countries were printed ... five months ago. And reprinted a week later in a major Egyptian paper, without causing a ruckus.
It wasn't until Danish Imam Abu Laban worked at, augmented the original cartoons with fabricated pictures, and enlisted Al Jazeera and leaders in the Middle East, that the riots came.
Five months.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Book Recommendation: The Barbarian Way
I thoroughly enjoyed The Barbarian Way by Erwin Raphael McManus and recommend it.
He encourages us to pursue the passionate, follow-Christ-anywhere, dangerous life, rather than "safe," domesticated, civil Christian practice. He made me think pretty hard about why I prefer certain things (because they make me feel more comfortable, frankly, not because they're biblical or in line with the Gospel).
Here's one tidbit I just love: "...a group of buzzards waiting around together to feast on leftover carnage is called a committee. ... This explains so much of what's going on in churches -- a lot of committees waiting around to live off human carnage."
Uproar Over Cartoons
People are killing, and being killed, over cartoon portrayals of Muhammad.
I overheard one person discussing this issue who said, "Why are they so angry? They should just grow up and be more mature. They're like little kids insulted over the smallest things at recess."
Actually, I think it's more accurate to characterize them as religious zealots with ambitions. Are these Muslims acting differently than Saul of Tarsus and the pious Pharisees in the first century? This is a logical outcome of religion, and we've seen example after example throughout history. The answer is a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ.
John Piper has written wisely about the difference between Muhammad and Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ bore all the insults, the lies, even the cross -- it was an essential part of His work to save us. There is no salvation in Muhammad.
People are killing, and being killed, over cartoon portrayals of Muhammad.
I overheard one person discussing this issue who said, "Why are they so angry? They should just grow up and be more mature. They're like little kids insulted over the smallest things at recess."
Actually, I think it's more accurate to characterize them as religious zealots with ambitions. Are these Muslims acting differently than Saul of Tarsus and the pious Pharisees in the first century? This is a logical outcome of religion, and we've seen example after example throughout history. The answer is a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ.
John Piper has written wisely about the difference between Muhammad and Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ bore all the insults, the lies, even the cross -- it was an essential part of His work to save us. There is no salvation in Muhammad.
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Tough Love
The best thing I can say about the free elections of Hamas to power in the nascent nation of Palestine is this: Hamas doesn't lie to cover up their true intent, as Fatah did. What you hear is what you get.
Charles Krauthammer makes an excellent argument for isolating the Palestinians from all recognition and aid, until they choose (through elections) peace and coexistence with Israel.
The best thing I can say about the free elections of Hamas to power in the nascent nation of Palestine is this: Hamas doesn't lie to cover up their true intent, as Fatah did. What you hear is what you get.
Charles Krauthammer makes an excellent argument for isolating the Palestinians from all recognition and aid, until they choose (through elections) peace and coexistence with Israel.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Don't Forget About Valentine's Day!
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
I know how focused you get on work, hobbies, etc. Your corpus corpolosum (the part of the brain connecting the two hemispheres) lost the majority of its neurons before you were born, so you're MALE and you can only focus on one thing at a time!
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
I know there are 1634 items on your want-to do list, plus a few hundred more on your should-do list, plus a batch of items, and you need to work on the taxes.
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
I know that you have over a week left, and even if you wanted to order something online it could get here pretty fast.
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
Plan to treat her "extra" special.
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
And remember that she is the woman God has given you. Every day should be like Valentine's Day. But it's not, so I really, really encourage you to get going on a Valentine's Day suprise for her.
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
I know how focused you get on work, hobbies, etc. Your corpus corpolosum (the part of the brain connecting the two hemispheres) lost the majority of its neurons before you were born, so you're MALE and you can only focus on one thing at a time!
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
I know there are 1634 items on your want-to do list, plus a few hundred more on your should-do list, plus a batch of items, and you need to work on the taxes.
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
I know that you have over a week left, and even if you wanted to order something online it could get here pretty fast.
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
Plan to treat her "extra" special.
Your sweetie is expecting you to do something nice for Valentine's Day.
And remember that she is the woman God has given you. Every day should be like Valentine's Day. But it's not, so I really, really encourage you to get going on a Valentine's Day suprise for her.
The US Congress or the Church?
Perry Noble has some excellent insights from his visit to the State of the Union Address. As impressive and powerful as the US Congress is, the Church is the most powerful institution in human history. "The church--she's beautiful...and through her God wants to change the world. The government can pass programs that will assist in times of need--however, they cannot powerwash a soul or give an eternal hope for the future...but the church can. "
Perry Noble has some excellent insights from his visit to the State of the Union Address. As impressive and powerful as the US Congress is, the Church is the most powerful institution in human history. "The church--she's beautiful...and through her God wants to change the world. The government can pass programs that will assist in times of need--however, they cannot powerwash a soul or give an eternal hope for the future...but the church can. "
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Shouting
Sometimes I think we're just too quiet about our Joy. We're domesticated, dignified, "civilized," and celebrate in only the most restrained ways.
Biblical counsel is for person self-control and orderliness in worship, but we also read that Joy should cause us to rock the place:
"Come, let's shout praises to GOD, raise the roof for the Rock who saved us!" (Psalm 95:1)
When was the last time, men, that you let out a genuine shout to God? Feel uncomfortable about the idea of shouting to the Lord? Review your reasons why, and see if they have more to do with pride -- or will lack of Joy -- than anything biblical.
Sometimes I think we're just too quiet about our Joy. We're domesticated, dignified, "civilized," and celebrate in only the most restrained ways.
Biblical counsel is for person self-control and orderliness in worship, but we also read that Joy should cause us to rock the place:
"Come, let's shout praises to GOD, raise the roof for the Rock who saved us!" (Psalm 95:1)
When was the last time, men, that you let out a genuine shout to God? Feel uncomfortable about the idea of shouting to the Lord? Review your reasons why, and see if they have more to do with pride -- or will lack of Joy -- than anything biblical.
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Moving the Pronoun
Here's a sobering thought: 2 people, out of about 6,000,000 in the nation of Israel, made it into the Promised Land.
From Pastor Ed Young: "Israel didn't fulfill her destiny because she listened to the "wrong they." They paid attention to a bad report from the majority rather than ignoring it. Here's the bottom line: we've got to move the pronoun from THEY to ME to HE. It's not about they. It's not about me. It's about He."
Here's a sobering thought: 2 people, out of about 6,000,000 in the nation of Israel, made it into the Promised Land.
From Pastor Ed Young: "Israel didn't fulfill her destiny because she listened to the "wrong they." They paid attention to a bad report from the majority rather than ignoring it. Here's the bottom line: we've got to move the pronoun from THEY to ME to HE. It's not about they. It's not about me. It's about He."
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Bigger Government Isn't the Answer
An economist gives an excellent analysis of the failure of government response to Hurricane Katrina, and in two pithy pages shows why bigger government isn't the answer. (PDF document)
It's interesting to see how many people are slow to give (time, money, possessions from their abundance) in these situations. I've heard a number of people say something like, "The Feds are helping them, and I pay my taxes." So one of the ugly, unintended consequences of big government spending is that people are calloused into giving less themselves.
An economist gives an excellent analysis of the failure of government response to Hurricane Katrina, and in two pithy pages shows why bigger government isn't the answer. (PDF document)
It's interesting to see how many people are slow to give (time, money, possessions from their abundance) in these situations. I've heard a number of people say something like, "The Feds are helping them, and I pay my taxes." So one of the ugly, unintended consequences of big government spending is that people are calloused into giving less themselves.
Monday, January 23, 2006
A Challenge to Bible Study
Though written to pastors, I think all men should be good students of God's Word. Get challenged, get started. Forget what lies in the past, start today.
Though written to pastors, I think all men should be good students of God's Word. Get challenged, get started. Forget what lies in the past, start today.
33 years
Roe v. Wade is now 33 years old. Of course, abortion is much older than Roe v. Wade.
I recommend this excellent article by an expectant mother to you.
Roe v. Wade is now 33 years old. Of course, abortion is much older than Roe v. Wade.
I recommend this excellent article by an expectant mother to you.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Maybe I Won't Eat There After All
I spotted a bakery next to the Caribou Coffee shop that sounded good. "Three Dog Bakery," I said, "I bet they sell their stuff at the coffee shop." My wife graciously pointed out that the Three Dog Bakery specializes in making treats for dogs, including dogs with allergies to certain foods.
Uh...maybe I won't want to eat there after all.
A quick Google search shows that this is a national chain of dog bakeries, and they have competition!
What does this say about our level of affluence, that there is a significant market for luxurious doggie treats? (By the way, the capitalist in me celebrates such a strong economy and ambitious entrepreneurship!)
CT has an interesting article about how the abundance of American culture threatens the soul. Wander through a mall -- which has become one of the primary places of community in our culture -- and see these people with the eyes of Christ. How many are hurting, lonely, looking for significance? How many are hoping for fulfilment but not seeing the marvelous loving God in their midst?
I spotted a bakery next to the Caribou Coffee shop that sounded good. "Three Dog Bakery," I said, "I bet they sell their stuff at the coffee shop." My wife graciously pointed out that the Three Dog Bakery specializes in making treats for dogs, including dogs with allergies to certain foods.
Uh...maybe I won't want to eat there after all.
A quick Google search shows that this is a national chain of dog bakeries, and they have competition!
What does this say about our level of affluence, that there is a significant market for luxurious doggie treats? (By the way, the capitalist in me celebrates such a strong economy and ambitious entrepreneurship!)
CT has an interesting article about how the abundance of American culture threatens the soul. Wander through a mall -- which has become one of the primary places of community in our culture -- and see these people with the eyes of Christ. How many are hurting, lonely, looking for significance? How many are hoping for fulfilment but not seeing the marvelous loving God in their midst?
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Building a Foundation from Small Habits
I have a little ritual that helps center me. When I go out to the end of the driveway to get the newspaper, I turn and look up at the North Star. It's the only star that doesn't "move" in the night sky. I know just where to look using landmarks of our roofline and trees.
I like to whisper a prayer of gratitude for God's constancy and faithfulness.
If it's cloudy, or snowing, I still look. The North Star is still there, shining bright, even if it's hidden from my sight. And I breathe a prayer of thankfulness that God is real and present, even if I'm not able to see Him at work.
A brother in Christ recently said to me, "Strong Christian men are made from many small habits."
I have a little ritual that helps center me. When I go out to the end of the driveway to get the newspaper, I turn and look up at the North Star. It's the only star that doesn't "move" in the night sky. I know just where to look using landmarks of our roofline and trees.
I like to whisper a prayer of gratitude for God's constancy and faithfulness.
If it's cloudy, or snowing, I still look. The North Star is still there, shining bright, even if it's hidden from my sight. And I breathe a prayer of thankfulness that God is real and present, even if I'm not able to see Him at work.
A brother in Christ recently said to me, "Strong Christian men are made from many small habits."
Fiscal Responsibility in Congress?
It's nice to see John Shadegg's editorial in the WSJ. It gives me some hope that there are men who are leading on the issues of fiscal restraint and responsibility. I like the Goldwater quote: "A government big enough to give you all you want is big enough to take it all away."
It's nice to see John Shadegg's editorial in the WSJ. It gives me some hope that there are men who are leading on the issues of fiscal restraint and responsibility. I like the Goldwater quote: "A government big enough to give you all you want is big enough to take it all away."
Did Jesus Have a Bad Year in 2006?
I laughed out loud at this headline:
2006 - A bad year for Jesus
At The American Spectator, Patrick Hynes writes, "2006 is already starting to look like [Jesus'] worst year since 33 A.D." He references a High Times article that asks "Was Jesus a Stoner?," NBC's Book of Daniel, the upcoming The Da Vinci Code and the lawsuit in Italy where a Catholic priest has been forced to appear in court to prove Jesus exsisted. Hynes concludes, "Ah, Jesus. A pot-smoking hippie who married Mary and never really existed at all. The same yesterday, today, and forever."
Citing source
Writing shows critical thinking...or its lack. Was this year any worse for Jesus than the year he was run through a kangaroo court, beaten and flogged, crucified? Even that is not a good way to think about it -- we're told that Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before him!
So it's not about Jesus "having" a good year or a bad year. And if our lives are hidden with Christ, then it's not about us "having" a good or bad year, either.
I laughed out loud at this headline:
2006 - A bad year for Jesus
At The American Spectator, Patrick Hynes writes, "2006 is already starting to look like [Jesus'] worst year since 33 A.D." He references a High Times article that asks "Was Jesus a Stoner?," NBC's Book of Daniel, the upcoming The Da Vinci Code and the lawsuit in Italy where a Catholic priest has been forced to appear in court to prove Jesus exsisted. Hynes concludes, "Ah, Jesus. A pot-smoking hippie who married Mary and never really existed at all. The same yesterday, today, and forever."
Citing source
Writing shows critical thinking...or its lack. Was this year any worse for Jesus than the year he was run through a kangaroo court, beaten and flogged, crucified? Even that is not a good way to think about it -- we're told that Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before him!
So it's not about Jesus "having" a good year or a bad year. And if our lives are hidden with Christ, then it's not about us "having" a good or bad year, either.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Pray for Venezuela
We are praying for the people of God in Venezuela. There are difficult days there, yet tremendous opportunities for the Gospel.
From a worldly perspective, I fear that the US and Venezuelan governments will come into open conflict more and more, as Chavez continues his alignment with Cuba and Tehran.
We are praying for the people of God in Venezuela. There are difficult days there, yet tremendous opportunities for the Gospel.
From a worldly perspective, I fear that the US and Venezuelan governments will come into open conflict more and more, as Chavez continues his alignment with Cuba and Tehran.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Friday, January 13, 2006
It's Not a Zero-Sum World
I appreciated Rich Karlgaard's column in Forbes, "World's Worst Disease." He argues carefully that politicians, many academics, most journalists, and most TV entertainment work from a worldview that says, "If you have it, it's less for me, because it's a zero-sum game." Economically, this isn't true. We create wealth and growth is a good thing. The Chinese government claims that their economy is lifting 1 million people a year out of poverty -- that's not happening because they're transferring money from one group to another via taxation!
There is one section of Karlgaard's column that isn't really about economics, but about men:
"The most popular [TV] male leads of today stand in stark contrast to the unambiguously moral protagonists of the past, good guys like Magnum, Matlock or Barnaby Jones," writes Warren St. John in a Dec. 11 New York Times story. "They are also not simply flawed in the classic sense: men who have the occasional affair or who tip the bottle a little too much. Instead they are unapologetic about killing, stealing, hoarding and beating their way to achieve personal goals …" (my emphasis). "
That's certainly true. I doubt John Wayne movies would be critical successes today.
I appreciated Rich Karlgaard's column in Forbes, "World's Worst Disease." He argues carefully that politicians, many academics, most journalists, and most TV entertainment work from a worldview that says, "If you have it, it's less for me, because it's a zero-sum game." Economically, this isn't true. We create wealth and growth is a good thing. The Chinese government claims that their economy is lifting 1 million people a year out of poverty -- that's not happening because they're transferring money from one group to another via taxation!
There is one section of Karlgaard's column that isn't really about economics, but about men:
"The most popular [TV] male leads of today stand in stark contrast to the unambiguously moral protagonists of the past, good guys like Magnum, Matlock or Barnaby Jones," writes Warren St. John in a Dec. 11 New York Times story. "They are also not simply flawed in the classic sense: men who have the occasional affair or who tip the bottle a little too much. Instead they are unapologetic about killing, stealing, hoarding and beating their way to achieve personal goals …" (my emphasis). "
That's certainly true. I doubt John Wayne movies would be critical successes today.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Free Bible Study Tool -- Bible Desktop
I know many readers are channeling their precious dollars into ministry and not on themselves, so you're always looking for high-quality free Bible study tools.
Check out Bible Desktop.
http://www.crosswire.org/bibledesktop/
I know many readers are channeling their precious dollars into ministry and not on themselves, so you're always looking for high-quality free Bible study tools.
Check out Bible Desktop.
http://www.crosswire.org/bibledesktop/
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Persevere
As I'm praying for men these days, I increasingly feel led to pray that they would be strong and persevere. So many of my friends are in long-running situations, and the days stretch into weeks and months.
Persevere, brothers. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, who long-suffered for us and has given us life. While we are here there is still work to do, service to give to our King.
Persevere, brothers. No matter what is going on now, or will come, this life is short and a vapor.
Persevere, brothers. No weapon of the enemy can truly harm you, and our sovereign God is working all things together for good for the men and women and children whom He loves.
Persevere, brothers. You can (and will) do much more than you think you can, because you are real men, and the Spirit of the Living God propels you forward.
Persevere, brothers. And pull other men along with you.
Persevere!
As I'm praying for men these days, I increasingly feel led to pray that they would be strong and persevere. So many of my friends are in long-running situations, and the days stretch into weeks and months.
Persevere, brothers. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, who long-suffered for us and has given us life. While we are here there is still work to do, service to give to our King.
Persevere, brothers. No matter what is going on now, or will come, this life is short and a vapor.
Persevere, brothers. No weapon of the enemy can truly harm you, and our sovereign God is working all things together for good for the men and women and children whom He loves.
Persevere, brothers. You can (and will) do much more than you think you can, because you are real men, and the Spirit of the Living God propels you forward.
Persevere, brothers. And pull other men along with you.
Persevere!
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Golden Anniversary
50 years today Jim Elliot and four others were killed when they made contact with the Auca Indians in Ecuador.
There is a new movie about this event coming out later in January, titled "End of the Spear."
You can read a nice biography of Elliot here.
50 years today Jim Elliot and four others were killed when they made contact with the Auca Indians in Ecuador.
There is a new movie about this event coming out later in January, titled "End of the Spear."
You can read a nice biography of Elliot here.
Friday, January 06, 2006
Cataloging Mistakes...and God's Grace
A friend told me that his teenage son asked him what mistakes he'd made that he wishes he could undo. My friend [wisely] asked for a little time to work on the list.
He came back to his son with a catalog of mistakes, but with an important twist -- for each one, he explained how God's grace was evident. And he concluded by carefully explaining how the Lord used all these mistakes to shape him into the bold&gentle man that he is today.
That's a good example for us, men.
A friend told me that his teenage son asked him what mistakes he'd made that he wishes he could undo. My friend [wisely] asked for a little time to work on the list.
He came back to his son with a catalog of mistakes, but with an important twist -- for each one, he explained how God's grace was evident. And he concluded by carefully explaining how the Lord used all these mistakes to shape him into the bold&gentle man that he is today.
That's a good example for us, men.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Observations from 2 Samuel 11
Who is the only positive character in the sordid sin cover-up recorded in 2 Samuel 11? Uriah.
David, Joab, and Bathsheba all fail to confess sin and repent.
I love the tact of the man who comes back to King David in v 3: "The man said, "Isn't this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite?" See how he tries to get the King to realize she's married, and she's married to one of David's mighty men? But David just blows past this.
And notice that David sends Uriah's death sentence with him in a letter to Joab. (v 14) David knows that Uriah, ever faithful, is not going to open the letter!
Uriah is not commended anywhere else in Scripture, but we should look at this story and be grateful for his example. He was the upright man, doing the right things in the face of temptations to self-indulgence. He was faithful even as people around him were manipulating him for their own purposes.
If your life were recorded for everyone to read about thousands of years later, what would they learn? Let's keep our legacy and testimony clear and loud!
Who is the only positive character in the sordid sin cover-up recorded in 2 Samuel 11? Uriah.
David, Joab, and Bathsheba all fail to confess sin and repent.
I love the tact of the man who comes back to King David in v 3: "The man said, "Isn't this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite?" See how he tries to get the King to realize she's married, and she's married to one of David's mighty men? But David just blows past this.
And notice that David sends Uriah's death sentence with him in a letter to Joab. (v 14) David knows that Uriah, ever faithful, is not going to open the letter!
Uriah is not commended anywhere else in Scripture, but we should look at this story and be grateful for his example. He was the upright man, doing the right things in the face of temptations to self-indulgence. He was faithful even as people around him were manipulating him for their own purposes.
If your life were recorded for everyone to read about thousands of years later, what would they learn? Let's keep our legacy and testimony clear and loud!
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Complexity
There is a very human tendency to think everything operates in a linear fashion. But we live in a world of complex systems. Things interact in unexpected and subtle ways, and we're demonstrably wrong about how best to manage things -- frequently! Relationships, ecosystems, computers, wars, politics are all complex systems.
Michael Crichton has written a fun, readable, and sobering essay on complexity that I highly recommend to you husbands and fathers. He set out to write a novel about a global catastrophe, started investigating Chernobyl, and discovered a whole body of evidence about complexity.
This is not a short essay, but it's worth your time. It will reinforce your high view of God's power and might.
There is a very human tendency to think everything operates in a linear fashion. But we live in a world of complex systems. Things interact in unexpected and subtle ways, and we're demonstrably wrong about how best to manage things -- frequently! Relationships, ecosystems, computers, wars, politics are all complex systems.
Michael Crichton has written a fun, readable, and sobering essay on complexity that I highly recommend to you husbands and fathers. He set out to write a novel about a global catastrophe, started investigating Chernobyl, and discovered a whole body of evidence about complexity.
This is not a short essay, but it's worth your time. It will reinforce your high view of God's power and might.
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Friday, December 30, 2005
Daily Discipline
What if you decided that you were going to read your Bible and pray for your family every day in 2006?
I read this recently about a recommendation to exercise daily, and set specific goals:
"What would happen if you went 365-straight days without missing a day of exercise?...Then make a goal to perform the same task every single day, without fail, for 365 days. At the end of the year, when you look backand see how far you've come, I doubt seriously that'll you'll feel that the "repetition" was dull or boring. No, the repetition is what helps refine you and make you a better person. "
Exercising your body is a good thing! How much more can be accomplished by reading God's Word daily and interceding for your family?
What if you decided that you were going to read your Bible and pray for your family every day in 2006?
I read this recently about a recommendation to exercise daily, and set specific goals:
"What would happen if you went 365-straight days without missing a day of exercise?...Then make a goal to perform the same task every single day, without fail, for 365 days. At the end of the year, when you look backand see how far you've come, I doubt seriously that'll you'll feel that the "repetition" was dull or boring. No, the repetition is what helps refine you and make you a better person. "
Exercising your body is a good thing! How much more can be accomplished by reading God's Word daily and interceding for your family?
Looking Back, Being Thankful
Doug Phillips (from Vision Forum) sent out two important things you should do this time of year.
1. Catalog the key events of 2005.
What I appreciated was his suggestion to be comprehensive in the review, and do this as a family:
" In addition to recording the key events and providences of the year chronologically, I try to take the time with my family to record some of the following information on separate bullet lists:
Where did I/we travel?
What were the titles and key texts of sermons I preached?
What books/articles did I write?
What significant household projects did we accomplish in 2005?
What were the most important meetings of the year?
What special friendships were made this year?
Which children lost teeth, and how many?
Who grew in physical stature and how much did they grow?
Who learned to read this year?
What diet and physical exercise regimen did I maintain to honor “my temple”?
What books did I read? Did we read as a family? Did my children read?
What Scriptures did my family memorize?
What loved ones died this year?
What were the great personal/ministry/national tragedies and losses of the year?
What were the great personal/ministry/national blessings of the year?
What were my most significant failures/sins for the year 2005?
What unresolved conflicts/issues am I bringing into 2006?
What significant spiritual and practical victories did I experience?
In what tangible ways did I communicate gratitude to those who have blessed me and invested in my life?
What are the top ten themes of 2005 for my family?"
2. Write thank you letters to the people who have been most influential in your life, and in 2005.
"Before the year ends, make a list of two types of people: The first list are the names of people whose life, ministry, or personal investment in you have deeply touched you and changed your life. (In my case, the list includes parents, pastors, and even some teachers from the early years of my Christian walk that I did not meet until much later in my life, but whose books and tapes were crucial to my personal discipleship as a young Christian.) The second list should include those people who played the most significant role in your life in 2005."
Terrific ideas!
Doug Phillips (from Vision Forum) sent out two important things you should do this time of year.
1. Catalog the key events of 2005.
What I appreciated was his suggestion to be comprehensive in the review, and do this as a family:
" In addition to recording the key events and providences of the year chronologically, I try to take the time with my family to record some of the following information on separate bullet lists:
Where did I/we travel?
What were the titles and key texts of sermons I preached?
What books/articles did I write?
What significant household projects did we accomplish in 2005?
What were the most important meetings of the year?
What special friendships were made this year?
Which children lost teeth, and how many?
Who grew in physical stature and how much did they grow?
Who learned to read this year?
What diet and physical exercise regimen did I maintain to honor “my temple”?
What books did I read? Did we read as a family? Did my children read?
What Scriptures did my family memorize?
What loved ones died this year?
What were the great personal/ministry/national tragedies and losses of the year?
What were the great personal/ministry/national blessings of the year?
What were my most significant failures/sins for the year 2005?
What unresolved conflicts/issues am I bringing into 2006?
What significant spiritual and practical victories did I experience?
In what tangible ways did I communicate gratitude to those who have blessed me and invested in my life?
What are the top ten themes of 2005 for my family?"
2. Write thank you letters to the people who have been most influential in your life, and in 2005.
"Before the year ends, make a list of two types of people: The first list are the names of people whose life, ministry, or personal investment in you have deeply touched you and changed your life. (In my case, the list includes parents, pastors, and even some teachers from the early years of my Christian walk that I did not meet until much later in my life, but whose books and tapes were crucial to my personal discipleship as a young Christian.) The second list should include those people who played the most significant role in your life in 2005."
Terrific ideas!
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Biblical Fatherhood
Doug Philips (Vision Forum) excerpted this from a book titled "The Tenets of Biblical Patriarchy."
A husband and father is the head of his household, a family leader, provider, and protector, with the authority and mandate to direct his household in paths of obedience to God. (Gen. 18:19; Eph. 6:4)
A man’s authority in the home should be exercised with gentleness, grace, and love as a servant-leader, following the example of Jesus Christ. Leadership is a stewardship from God. (Ps. 103:13; Mal. 3:17; Matt. 11:29-30; Col. 3:21; 1 Pet. 3:7)
The authority of fathers is limited by the law of God and the lawful authority of church and state. Christian fathers cannot escape the jurisdiction of church and state and must be subject to both. (Rom. 13:1ff.; Eph. 5:21; 6:4; Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 2:13ff.)
Doug Philips (Vision Forum) excerpted this from a book titled "The Tenets of Biblical Patriarchy."
A husband and father is the head of his household, a family leader, provider, and protector, with the authority and mandate to direct his household in paths of obedience to God. (Gen. 18:19; Eph. 6:4)
A man’s authority in the home should be exercised with gentleness, grace, and love as a servant-leader, following the example of Jesus Christ. Leadership is a stewardship from God. (Ps. 103:13; Mal. 3:17; Matt. 11:29-30; Col. 3:21; 1 Pet. 3:7)
The authority of fathers is limited by the law of God and the lawful authority of church and state. Christian fathers cannot escape the jurisdiction of church and state and must be subject to both. (Rom. 13:1ff.; Eph. 5:21; 6:4; Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 2:13ff.)
Are We Thanking God Enough?
Mark Batterson has some useful factoids about what we should be thankful for:
"I think most of us take most things for granted. Right now, thousands of things are happening in your body that you are totally unaware of. Trillions of chemical reactions are taking place in every cell every second. Electrical impulses are shooting across synapses. Hormones are surging through your bloodstream. Your body is breathing, thinking, metabolizing, calibrating, repairing, purifying, digesting, and circulating all time. And here is the amazing thing: you don't give it a second thought. As important and as integral as those processes are to our survival, most of us are totally unaware of what our bodies are doing most of the time. We take the miracle for granted. The retina conducts close to ten billion calculations every second. And that is before an image even gets to the brain. The Reticular Activating System is filtering millions of stimuli every second and determined what you pay attention to and what gets ignored. Your ear drums are picking up sound waves and they are being translated into intelligible language.Just to touch your nose with your finger takes approximately 400 separate chemical reactions. The ability to pick your nose is an amazing act of neurological coordination. It's gross. I'm not advocating for it. But it's miraculous.We take the sunrise for granted. Why? Because there isn't a day that the sun hasn't come up. I don't know anybody who consistently thanks God for keeping the planets in orbit day in and day out. But it's miraculous.If we thanked God for every heart beat we'd owe God 100,000 thank yous per day. Throw in every breath and we'd owe him another 23,000 thank yous."
Mark Batterson has some useful factoids about what we should be thankful for:
"I think most of us take most things for granted. Right now, thousands of things are happening in your body that you are totally unaware of. Trillions of chemical reactions are taking place in every cell every second. Electrical impulses are shooting across synapses. Hormones are surging through your bloodstream. Your body is breathing, thinking, metabolizing, calibrating, repairing, purifying, digesting, and circulating all time. And here is the amazing thing: you don't give it a second thought. As important and as integral as those processes are to our survival, most of us are totally unaware of what our bodies are doing most of the time. We take the miracle for granted. The retina conducts close to ten billion calculations every second. And that is before an image even gets to the brain. The Reticular Activating System is filtering millions of stimuli every second and determined what you pay attention to and what gets ignored. Your ear drums are picking up sound waves and they are being translated into intelligible language.Just to touch your nose with your finger takes approximately 400 separate chemical reactions. The ability to pick your nose is an amazing act of neurological coordination. It's gross. I'm not advocating for it. But it's miraculous.We take the sunrise for granted. Why? Because there isn't a day that the sun hasn't come up. I don't know anybody who consistently thanks God for keeping the planets in orbit day in and day out. But it's miraculous.If we thanked God for every heart beat we'd owe God 100,000 thank yous per day. Throw in every breath and we'd owe him another 23,000 thank yous."
Christian Infighting
There's an old saying that the worst fights are among family members. One former pastor I know talks about how Christians excel at shooting our wounded.
Perry Noble has a useful blog post about this. He takes on those who would argue about
-- the correct translation of the Bible to use
-- predestination vs. free will
-- music in worship services
-- eschatology
-- Bible teaching methods
-- whether to have church service on Christmas day if it's on Sunday
There's an old saying that the worst fights are among family members. One former pastor I know talks about how Christians excel at shooting our wounded.
Perry Noble has a useful blog post about this. He takes on those who would argue about
-- the correct translation of the Bible to use
-- predestination vs. free will
-- music in worship services
-- eschatology
-- Bible teaching methods
-- whether to have church service on Christmas day if it's on Sunday
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Holding Hands High
You probably remember the story about Aaron and Hur holding up Moses’ hands all day so that Joshua and the Israelites would defeat the Amalekites in battle. Here’s the passage to read:
“Amalek came and fought Israel at Rephidim. Moses ordered Joshua: "Select some men for us and go out and fight Amalek. Tomorrow I will take my stand on top of the hill holding God's staff." Joshua did what Moses ordered in order to fight Amalek. And Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill. It turned out that whenever Moses raised his hands, Israel was winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, Amalek was winning. But Moses' hands got tired. So they got a stone and set it under him. He sat on it and Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on each side. So his hands remained steady until the sun went down. Joshua defeated Amalek and its army in battle.
(Exodus 17:8-13)
Think about this a bit – how tired do you think Aaron and Hur were after a few hours of holding up Moses’ hands? No stone to sit on for them! I suspect they were excited about the victory, but their whole bodies probably ached when they lay down to sleep that night. (Plus, these men weren’t 18 year-old who wouldn’t “feel it” the next day, or three.)
Also, how much did Moses’ arms and shoulders ache from being held high? Try this – hold your hands over your head for five minutes.
I imagine that all three of them were praying for an end to the battle, for victory sooner than later!
The Lord frequently calls men to support one another, in prayer, in action. But everyone’s arms may get weary and sore. Everyone may be excited about the end result, but there was plenty of discomfort getting us there. Stay the course when you’re in the fight with a brother. Don’t listen to the whiny committee in your head telling you to stop holding the other person up.
You probably remember the story about Aaron and Hur holding up Moses’ hands all day so that Joshua and the Israelites would defeat the Amalekites in battle. Here’s the passage to read:
“Amalek came and fought Israel at Rephidim. Moses ordered Joshua: "Select some men for us and go out and fight Amalek. Tomorrow I will take my stand on top of the hill holding God's staff." Joshua did what Moses ordered in order to fight Amalek. And Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill. It turned out that whenever Moses raised his hands, Israel was winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, Amalek was winning. But Moses' hands got tired. So they got a stone and set it under him. He sat on it and Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on each side. So his hands remained steady until the sun went down. Joshua defeated Amalek and its army in battle.
(Exodus 17:8-13)
Think about this a bit – how tired do you think Aaron and Hur were after a few hours of holding up Moses’ hands? No stone to sit on for them! I suspect they were excited about the victory, but their whole bodies probably ached when they lay down to sleep that night. (Plus, these men weren’t 18 year-old who wouldn’t “feel it” the next day, or three.)
Also, how much did Moses’ arms and shoulders ache from being held high? Try this – hold your hands over your head for five minutes.
I imagine that all three of them were praying for an end to the battle, for victory sooner than later!
The Lord frequently calls men to support one another, in prayer, in action. But everyone’s arms may get weary and sore. Everyone may be excited about the end result, but there was plenty of discomfort getting us there. Stay the course when you’re in the fight with a brother. Don’t listen to the whiny committee in your head telling you to stop holding the other person up.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Friday, December 09, 2005
Ten Things You Never Hear In Church
#1 - Hey! It's my turn to sit down front!
#2 - I was so into your message that I didn't notice it went 25 minutes too long!
#3 - Personally, I find witnessing more enjoyable than golf.
#4 - I have thought about it and decided to give our church the $500 per month that I have been sending the TV evangelists
#5 - I volunteer to be a permanent worker with middle school students!
#6 - Forget the denominational minimum salary, let's pay our staff so they can live like we do.
#7 - I LOVE IT when we sing songs that we've never sang before.
#8 - Since we're all here, let's begin the service early.
#9 - Pastor, we'd like to send you to this Bible seminar in Hawaii...
#10 - I LOVE IT when you preach on giving!
#1 - Hey! It's my turn to sit down front!
#2 - I was so into your message that I didn't notice it went 25 minutes too long!
#3 - Personally, I find witnessing more enjoyable than golf.
#4 - I have thought about it and decided to give our church the $500 per month that I have been sending the TV evangelists
#5 - I volunteer to be a permanent worker with middle school students!
#6 - Forget the denominational minimum salary, let's pay our staff so they can live like we do.
#7 - I LOVE IT when we sing songs that we've never sang before.
#8 - Since we're all here, let's begin the service early.
#9 - Pastor, we'd like to send you to this Bible seminar in Hawaii...
#10 - I LOVE IT when you preach on giving!
Thursday, December 08, 2005
A Meditation* on Caleb
There are some inspiring and challenges lessons from Caleb in Joshua 14:6-15. He's 85 years old. Remember that Caleb and Joshua were in favor of going into the promised land -- but 10 others lost heart and discouraged Israel against going in. The result? Joshua and Caleb spent the next 40 years with these whiners and cowards, and dug a lot of graves. But they clung to the Lord's promises. Now the time has come for Caleb to ask for territory. Let's listen in to what a righteous 85 year-old says to the only other man who had shown courage so long before.
6 Now the men of Judah approached Joshua at Gilgal, and Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, "You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh Barnea about you and me. 7 I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh Barnea to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions, 8 but my brothers who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt with fear. I, however, followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly. 9 So on that day Moses swore to me, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.' 10 "Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the desert. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! 11 I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then. 12 Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the LORD helping me, I will drive them out just as he said."
Notice a few things:
Caleb followed the Lord wholeheartedly. Caleb has been living in confidence that God will fulfill his promises. Caleb is just as strong as he was at 40 (think of that!).
Caleb does not ask for green pastures and a quiet retirement. He asks for the mountain of Horeb (where God had met Abrahm). Horeb means "fellowship" or "communion." Caleb wants to settle where he knows God is!
One minor problem: the Anakites (Goliath's people, remember?) have settled in this mountainous region in large, fortified cities.
So instead of asking for a quiet place to retire, Caleb is asking for a new challenge -- a mountain to conquer. How many 85 year-olds have you met who are flexing their biceps and shouting, "Bring it!" You have to love this guy.
And Caleb is confident that the Anakites will be easy to drive out if God is with him.
Ok, let's look at Joshua's response.
13 Then Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance. 14 So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly. 15 (Hebron used to be called Kiriath Arba after Arba, who was the greatest man among the Anakites.) Then the land had rest from war.
Joshua blesses his fellow spy Caleb. I can easily imagine the smile on his face when Caleb asks for the mountain! Notice that the record doesn't go on about the difficulty of conquering the Anakites -- it simply states that Caleb had it for his inheritance and passed it on to his descendents.
May God help us to learn from Caleb, brothers. Where do we need to have more confidence in God's promises to us? What mountains has he put in your view, so you can say, "Bring it!" and charge ahead? What people or circumstances look like giants now, but seen in faith will shrink to their proper size?
*I took some of these thoughts from a CrossTrainer presentation by Jerry Foster.
There are some inspiring and challenges lessons from Caleb in Joshua 14:6-15. He's 85 years old. Remember that Caleb and Joshua were in favor of going into the promised land -- but 10 others lost heart and discouraged Israel against going in. The result? Joshua and Caleb spent the next 40 years with these whiners and cowards, and dug a lot of graves. But they clung to the Lord's promises. Now the time has come for Caleb to ask for territory. Let's listen in to what a righteous 85 year-old says to the only other man who had shown courage so long before.
6 Now the men of Judah approached Joshua at Gilgal, and Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, "You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh Barnea about you and me. 7 I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh Barnea to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions, 8 but my brothers who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt with fear. I, however, followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly. 9 So on that day Moses swore to me, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.' 10 "Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the desert. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! 11 I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then. 12 Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the LORD helping me, I will drive them out just as he said."
Notice a few things:
Caleb followed the Lord wholeheartedly. Caleb has been living in confidence that God will fulfill his promises. Caleb is just as strong as he was at 40 (think of that!).
Caleb does not ask for green pastures and a quiet retirement. He asks for the mountain of Horeb (where God had met Abrahm). Horeb means "fellowship" or "communion." Caleb wants to settle where he knows God is!
One minor problem: the Anakites (Goliath's people, remember?) have settled in this mountainous region in large, fortified cities.
So instead of asking for a quiet place to retire, Caleb is asking for a new challenge -- a mountain to conquer. How many 85 year-olds have you met who are flexing their biceps and shouting, "Bring it!" You have to love this guy.
And Caleb is confident that the Anakites will be easy to drive out if God is with him.
Ok, let's look at Joshua's response.
13 Then Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance. 14 So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly. 15 (Hebron used to be called Kiriath Arba after Arba, who was the greatest man among the Anakites.) Then the land had rest from war.
Joshua blesses his fellow spy Caleb. I can easily imagine the smile on his face when Caleb asks for the mountain! Notice that the record doesn't go on about the difficulty of conquering the Anakites -- it simply states that Caleb had it for his inheritance and passed it on to his descendents.
May God help us to learn from Caleb, brothers. Where do we need to have more confidence in God's promises to us? What mountains has he put in your view, so you can say, "Bring it!" and charge ahead? What people or circumstances look like giants now, but seen in faith will shrink to their proper size?
*I took some of these thoughts from a CrossTrainer presentation by Jerry Foster.
Why You Need to Keep Studying the Bible
"Howard Hendricks tells a story that vividly illustrates the necessity of personal Bible study for spiritual leaders. During his college years, Hendricks passed one of his professor’s homes on his way to work early in the morning as well as on his way home from library late in the evening. After only a few days, he noticed the light was continually on in his professor’s study. When Hendricks asked what kept him studying, poring over his books, his professor replied, “Son, I would rather have my students drink from a running stream than a stagnant pool.” "
Amen! You and I know that we can go for a while on "momentum" from previous study, but we feel it quickly, and others will know soon enough. The branch stripped from the tree stay green and fresh for only a short while!
"Howard Hendricks tells a story that vividly illustrates the necessity of personal Bible study for spiritual leaders. During his college years, Hendricks passed one of his professor’s homes on his way to work early in the morning as well as on his way home from library late in the evening. After only a few days, he noticed the light was continually on in his professor’s study. When Hendricks asked what kept him studying, poring over his books, his professor replied, “Son, I would rather have my students drink from a running stream than a stagnant pool.” "
Amen! You and I know that we can go for a while on "momentum" from previous study, but we feel it quickly, and others will know soon enough. The branch stripped from the tree stay green and fresh for only a short while!
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Encouraging Other Men
I'm called to encourage other men. I'm trying to pour it out (but am well short of what I know God wants me to do). I send emails, make phone calls, check up on men whom I see and know and can ask "How are you doing? Really?" and "How can I pray for you?"
And it doesn't matter much whether the men are older than I am, a peer, or younger. If the Lord puts a guy on my mind or heart, I'm going to encourage them and pray for them. It's what I'm supposed to do.
(So here's a cool thing: My son is becoming one of those men. )
I've decided that it doesn't matter what feedback I get. Most men are appreciative, but I'm not looking for that. Last night one brother-in-the-battle told me he really appreciated the emails I send him. "When I see that, I know I can make it."
What about you? What guys are around you that need to hear from you?
I'm called to encourage other men. I'm trying to pour it out (but am well short of what I know God wants me to do). I send emails, make phone calls, check up on men whom I see and know and can ask "How are you doing? Really?" and "How can I pray for you?"
And it doesn't matter much whether the men are older than I am, a peer, or younger. If the Lord puts a guy on my mind or heart, I'm going to encourage them and pray for them. It's what I'm supposed to do.
(So here's a cool thing: My son is becoming one of those men. )
I've decided that it doesn't matter what feedback I get. Most men are appreciative, but I'm not looking for that. Last night one brother-in-the-battle told me he really appreciated the emails I send him. "When I see that, I know I can make it."
What about you? What guys are around you that need to hear from you?
Monday, December 05, 2005
Quote of the Week
"We do not need more intellectual power, we need more moral power. We do not need more knowledge, we need more character. We do not need more government, we need more culture. We do not need more law, we need more religion. We do not need more of the things that are seen, we need more of the things that are unseen. If the foundation be firm, the foundation will stand." -- Calvin Coolidge
May all our presidents, governors, congressmen, and even appointed officials believe this, as well as have the guts to say it!
"We do not need more intellectual power, we need more moral power. We do not need more knowledge, we need more character. We do not need more government, we need more culture. We do not need more law, we need more religion. We do not need more of the things that are seen, we need more of the things that are unseen. If the foundation be firm, the foundation will stand." -- Calvin Coolidge
May all our presidents, governors, congressmen, and even appointed officials believe this, as well as have the guts to say it!
What a Tee-teeing Dog Taught a Pastor about Resisting Satan
Check out this delightful story from Perry Noble. And then take your stand!
Check out this delightful story from Perry Noble. And then take your stand!
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Primary Misconceptions Fueled by Satan
Satan tells many lies about Christianity. Here are three lies that he has poured mucho fuel on, and chewed up the mileage:
1. Christians are (by definition) intolerant.
Can someone please point me to the most recent Christian tyrant dictator?
2. Patriarchy automatically leads to abuse of women and children.
The truth here is that biblical patriarchy leads men to protect and cherish women and children, nurturing and defending them.
3. All cultures are morally equivalent.
The standard is the commands of Jesus -- love God, and love your neighbor. I'm not arguing that any nation is perfect, but not every culture even lives towards these standards.
Coach your kids, men. Help them to be discerning about lies.
Satan tells many lies about Christianity. Here are three lies that he has poured mucho fuel on, and chewed up the mileage:
1. Christians are (by definition) intolerant.
Can someone please point me to the most recent Christian tyrant dictator?
2. Patriarchy automatically leads to abuse of women and children.
The truth here is that biblical patriarchy leads men to protect and cherish women and children, nurturing and defending them.
3. All cultures are morally equivalent.
The standard is the commands of Jesus -- love God, and love your neighbor. I'm not arguing that any nation is perfect, but not every culture even lives towards these standards.
Coach your kids, men. Help them to be discerning about lies.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
No ember lasts long by itself
D. L. Moody was visiting a prominent Chicago citizen when the idea of church membership and involvement came up."I believe I can be just as good a Christian outside the church as I can be inside it," the man said.
Moody said nothing. Instead, he moved to the fireplace, blazing against the winter outside, removed one burning coal, and placed it on the hearth.
The two men sat together and watched the ember die out.
"I see," the other man said.
Citation: Keith Long, Room to Grow (Hendrickson, 1999), quoted in Men of Integrity (3.2).
D. L. Moody was visiting a prominent Chicago citizen when the idea of church membership and involvement came up."I believe I can be just as good a Christian outside the church as I can be inside it," the man said.
Moody said nothing. Instead, he moved to the fireplace, blazing against the winter outside, removed one burning coal, and placed it on the hearth.
The two men sat together and watched the ember die out.
"I see," the other man said.
Citation: Keith Long, Room to Grow (Hendrickson, 1999), quoted in Men of Integrity (3.2).
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Jesus was born to die
Jesus was born to die as a sacrifice to ransom His people from destruction. Think about the incredible mixture of joy and suffering that Jesus knew he would experience after he laid aside His glory and became a little baby. There would be all the goofiness of being in a child'sbody. The struggles of the flesh. He would taste the joys and pains of being in a family -- with sin-satured parents and siblings and neighbors. He would know some hunger and pain.
There would also be beautiful country to enjoy and experience. After he tookup his ministry, he would see the joy in the eyes and heartsof people whom he would heal. He would experience laughter and celebrations -- weddings, parties, dinners withtax collectors. Think of the joy that would come as hecommanded demons to come out of people and stop tormenting them. Think of the thrill of seeing people repent of their sins and begin following his commands. Imagine his enjoyment of walking along the roads with his disciples,and teaching the crowds. Imagine his sweet times offellowship with the heavenly Father in prayer.
But Jesuswould also anticipate people misunderstanding him, rejectinghim, spitting on him, calling him horrible names,beating him, ripping open his back with whips, pounding nails into his flesh. He would experience the full physical and psychological suffering of the cross.
Jesus knew all these things as he laidaside His glory, stepped over the threshold of eternity into limited time and space, and entered into humanity as a baby.There would be joys in those 33 years, but many awful timesas well.
So at Christmas it is good to celebrate the coming of the Lord. But let us remember that Jesus came to die. The wonder of the Lord coming this way, to experiencethis life, for us, for me, needs to fill our minds andhearts this season.
Jesus foreknew ALL ofthis -- and still did it.You see, He is the only one who can walk by sight. We can't handle walking by sight, when it gets down to it -- we'd balk. We'd fail. Our loving Father knows we can't handle it, so He calls us to walk by faith. Faith in Jesus.
Jesus was born to die as a sacrifice to ransom His people from destruction. Think about the incredible mixture of joy and suffering that Jesus knew he would experience after he laid aside His glory and became a little baby. There would be all the goofiness of being in a child'sbody. The struggles of the flesh. He would taste the joys and pains of being in a family -- with sin-satured parents and siblings and neighbors. He would know some hunger and pain.
There would also be beautiful country to enjoy and experience. After he tookup his ministry, he would see the joy in the eyes and heartsof people whom he would heal. He would experience laughter and celebrations -- weddings, parties, dinners withtax collectors. Think of the joy that would come as hecommanded demons to come out of people and stop tormenting them. Think of the thrill of seeing people repent of their sins and begin following his commands. Imagine his enjoyment of walking along the roads with his disciples,and teaching the crowds. Imagine his sweet times offellowship with the heavenly Father in prayer.
But Jesuswould also anticipate people misunderstanding him, rejectinghim, spitting on him, calling him horrible names,beating him, ripping open his back with whips, pounding nails into his flesh. He would experience the full physical and psychological suffering of the cross.
Jesus knew all these things as he laidaside His glory, stepped over the threshold of eternity into limited time and space, and entered into humanity as a baby.There would be joys in those 33 years, but many awful timesas well.
So at Christmas it is good to celebrate the coming of the Lord. But let us remember that Jesus came to die. The wonder of the Lord coming this way, to experiencethis life, for us, for me, needs to fill our minds andhearts this season.
Jesus foreknew ALL ofthis -- and still did it.You see, He is the only one who can walk by sight. We can't handle walking by sight, when it gets down to it -- we'd balk. We'd fail. Our loving Father knows we can't handle it, so He calls us to walk by faith. Faith in Jesus.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
16 Red Letter Commands of Jesus
Tony Morgan has identified 16 one word commands of Jesus. This is brilliant! Very helpful. Check it out now.
Tony Morgan has identified 16 one word commands of Jesus. This is brilliant! Very helpful. Check it out now.
Cotton Mather’s Characterization of William Bradford
William Bradford was certainly used by God to preserve the Puritan colony at Plymouth. Check out this characterization of the man by Cotton Mather:
“He was indeed a person of a well-tempered spirit, or else it had been scarce possible for him to have kept the affairs of Plymouth in so good a temper for thirty-seven years together... The leader of a people in a wilderness had need be a Moses; and if a Moses had not led the people of Plymouth Colony, when this worthy person was their governour, the people had never with so much unanimity and importunity still called him to lead them.
He was a person for study as well as action; and hence, notwithstanding the difficulties through which he had passed in his youth, he attained unto a notable skill in languages... He was also well skilled in History, in Antiquity, and in Philosophy; and for Theology he became so versed in it, that he was an irrefragable disputant against the errors, especially those of Anabaptism, which with trouble he saw rising in his colony... But the crown of all was his holy, prayerful, watchful, and fruitful walk with God, wherein he was very exemplary.”
How would you compare, brother? Let us purpose to be bold & gentle men
William Bradford was certainly used by God to preserve the Puritan colony at Plymouth. Check out this characterization of the man by Cotton Mather:
“He was indeed a person of a well-tempered spirit, or else it had been scarce possible for him to have kept the affairs of Plymouth in so good a temper for thirty-seven years together... The leader of a people in a wilderness had need be a Moses; and if a Moses had not led the people of Plymouth Colony, when this worthy person was their governour, the people had never with so much unanimity and importunity still called him to lead them.
He was a person for study as well as action; and hence, notwithstanding the difficulties through which he had passed in his youth, he attained unto a notable skill in languages... He was also well skilled in History, in Antiquity, and in Philosophy; and for Theology he became so versed in it, that he was an irrefragable disputant against the errors, especially those of Anabaptism, which with trouble he saw rising in his colony... But the crown of all was his holy, prayerful, watchful, and fruitful walk with God, wherein he was very exemplary.”
How would you compare, brother? Let us purpose to be bold & gentle men
Remembering Some Law
Iraq Liberation Act (passed by Congress and signed by President Clinton in 1998):
“It should be the policy of the United States to support efforts to remove the regime headed by Saddam Hussein from power in Iraq, and to promote the emergence of a democratic government to replace that regime.”
This passed the House 360-38 and the Senate 94-0.
Iraq Liberation Act (passed by Congress and signed by President Clinton in 1998):
“It should be the policy of the United States to support efforts to remove the regime headed by Saddam Hussein from power in Iraq, and to promote the emergence of a democratic government to replace that regime.”
This passed the House 360-38 and the Senate 94-0.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Flat Tax?
I recommend Flat Tax Revolution. It's a straightforward read, plenty of detail.
Forbes does a great job outlining the "hidden" impacts that the current tax system makes, and gives excellent reasoning why a national sales tax would not be nearly as effective.
I'm an advocate of the flat tax strategy, but I'm not sure I agree with the exact formulation Forbes proposes here. (And I'm still scratching my head wondering how people come up with the rate -- 13% for some, 17% for Forbes. If 10% works as a tithe, why does the federal government need more?)
So part of the reason I recommend this book is because it gives you additional details and insights so you can start wrestling with it. We're Christians, and we should be the best thinkers on the planet -- in the Church we have the mind of Christ.
It's too bad that so many people will be put off the concept because a "super wealthy" guy like Steve Forbes is promoting it.
Bzzzzzzzzzzzzz!
Someone equipped a dear friend with a pager when he was battling cancer earlier this year. Then the pager number was distributed to hundreds of his friends and fellow CrossTrainers. Whenever we thought about him, and were praying for him, we dialed the pager number. My friends pager was buzzing constantly, a powerful reminder of the prayers of the saints.
More recently we've adapted this to email and text messaging. Now I'm sending out email messages that just have
Bzzzzzzzzz!
in the subject line. That's it. But the recipient knows that I'm praying for them, and they're not in the battle alone. Give this a try -- it's easy on you, and powerful for others.
Someone equipped a dear friend with a pager when he was battling cancer earlier this year. Then the pager number was distributed to hundreds of his friends and fellow CrossTrainers. Whenever we thought about him, and were praying for him, we dialed the pager number. My friends pager was buzzing constantly, a powerful reminder of the prayers of the saints.
More recently we've adapted this to email and text messaging. Now I'm sending out email messages that just have
Bzzzzzzzzz!
in the subject line. That's it. But the recipient knows that I'm praying for them, and they're not in the battle alone. Give this a try -- it's easy on you, and powerful for others.
Friday, November 18, 2005
Half-time Encouragement
I'm called to encourage other men. So I really appreciated this wonderful "Get Back in the Game!" column by Clark Cothern. Get it, read it. And then let's get back into service!
I'm called to encourage other men. So I really appreciated this wonderful "Get Back in the Game!" column by Clark Cothern. Get it, read it. And then let's get back into service!
The Bush Administration Didn't Lie about WMD
I have resisted the urge to post about the inane, despicable, grandstanding, do-you-think-people-just-don't-remember?, why-are-you-giving-the-enemy-ammunition?, treasoness behavior of Democrat party leaders and elected representatives who claim the Bush administration lied about WMD to get us into war in Iraq.
There is plenty of documentation available for those who actually care to check facts rather than swallow elephant-sized 'sound bites.' Start with this excellent summary by Norman Podheretz, "Who is Lying About Iraq?"
I have resisted the urge to post about the inane, despicable, grandstanding, do-you-think-people-just-don't-remember?, why-are-you-giving-the-enemy-ammunition?, treasoness behavior of Democrat party leaders and elected representatives who claim the Bush administration lied about WMD to get us into war in Iraq.
There is plenty of documentation available for those who actually care to check facts rather than swallow elephant-sized 'sound bites.' Start with this excellent summary by Norman Podheretz, "Who is Lying About Iraq?"
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Get Some Quiet!
The Screwtape Letters is a popular book in our home, so this article caught my attention:
"A Kingdom of Noise: A Screwtape Letter for the Media Age"
Read it and enjoy. And then here's my challenge -- what can you do today to get some quiet? God is speaking, and there are things you will not hear in the presence of manufactured noise.
The Screwtape Letters is a popular book in our home, so this article caught my attention:
"A Kingdom of Noise: A Screwtape Letter for the Media Age"
Read it and enjoy. And then here's my challenge -- what can you do today to get some quiet? God is speaking, and there are things you will not hear in the presence of manufactured noise.
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Prepare for Narnia Discussions
Our family is really looking forward to the new movie coming out, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe on December 9th.
Check out Roaring Narnia for resources and ideas about discussions around this movie.
Our family is really looking forward to the new movie coming out, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe on December 9th.
Check out Roaring Narnia for resources and ideas about discussions around this movie.
Get over it!
John Piper answers objections about going into missions. Great responses from the wise and tender heart of a Scripture-soaked challenger!
John Piper answers objections about going into missions. Great responses from the wise and tender heart of a Scripture-soaked challenger!
Recommended American History Books
Marvin Olasky -- whom I do not always agree with, but always read -- has some excellent ideas for good books to help you and your kids appreciate American history. I've read nearly all his suggested books, concurring wholeheartedly with his recommendations.
Marvin Olasky -- whom I do not always agree with, but always read -- has some excellent ideas for good books to help you and your kids appreciate American history. I've read nearly all his suggested books, concurring wholeheartedly with his recommendations.
"Jedi Christians"
For those of you interested in the Star Wars saga, or who have children interested in it, check out this interview with Dick Staub, author of "Christian Wisdom of the Jedi Masters."
I love what A.W. Tozer told his father, about the secret to knowing God: "Young man, read the Bible and pray every day and you'll grow like a weed!"
For those of you interested in the Star Wars saga, or who have children interested in it, check out this interview with Dick Staub, author of "Christian Wisdom of the Jedi Masters."
I love what A.W. Tozer told his father, about the secret to knowing God: "Young man, read the Bible and pray every day and you'll grow like a weed!"
Friday, November 11, 2005
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Yesterday at CrossTrainers we held a Medal of Faithfulness ceremony to honor four men -- including my good friend Rick Holmertz -- who had gone home to be with the Lord in the past few months. This was a wonderful, tender time celebrating their strong walks and that they finished well, and the legacy echoing forward through their families.
My dad, dead now for four years, was likewise honored at a ceremony like this. I burst into tears when saw his pictures again yesterday. I think about him every day (in fact, I wear his beloved watch to remind me of him), and miss him terribly.
A good friend pointed out to me when he died that the reason we hurt so much is that we weren't built to say goodbye. It wasn't in our original design. There's wisdom in that.
But most of the chest pains I experienced yesterday were because God did some work in me. "Get rid of this stupid stuff that doesn't belong in the life I have for you." One of the best quotes of 2005 is "Don't get stuck on stupid." Apparently in military training they say that pain is the feeling of fear leaving your body. Well, as men, sometimes it's not fear leaving your body, it's stupid stuff leaving your heart.
Semper Fi, Jesus. With your help, I will be semper fi.
My dad, dead now for four years, was likewise honored at a ceremony like this. I burst into tears when saw his pictures again yesterday. I think about him every day (in fact, I wear his beloved watch to remind me of him), and miss him terribly.
A good friend pointed out to me when he died that the reason we hurt so much is that we weren't built to say goodbye. It wasn't in our original design. There's wisdom in that.
But most of the chest pains I experienced yesterday were because God did some work in me. "Get rid of this stupid stuff that doesn't belong in the life I have for you." One of the best quotes of 2005 is "Don't get stuck on stupid." Apparently in military training they say that pain is the feeling of fear leaving your body. Well, as men, sometimes it's not fear leaving your body, it's stupid stuff leaving your heart.
Semper Fi, Jesus. With your help, I will be semper fi.
385 years ago -- A Seminal Event
The Mayflower Compact was signed 385 years ago on November 11, 1620. This was the critical forerunner document to the US Constitution, a huge break from conventional ways of thinking. No one but the Puritans could have made this covenantal kind of agreement.
Worth reading again today:
"IN THE name of God, Amen.
We whose names are underwritten, the loyal subjects of our dread sovereign Lord, King James, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland king, defender of the faith, etc., having undertaken, for the glory of God, and advancement of the Christian faith, and honor of our king and country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the Northern parts of Virginia, do by these presents solemnly and mutually in the presence of God, and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil body politic, for our better ordering and preservation and furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame such just and equal laws, ordinances, acts, constitutions, and offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good of the colony, unto which we promise all due submission and obedience.
In witness whereof we have hereunder subscribed our names at Cape-Cod the 11 of November, in the year of the reign of our sovereign lord, King James, of England, France, and Ireland the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domine 1620."
The Mayflower Compact was signed 385 years ago on November 11, 1620. This was the critical forerunner document to the US Constitution, a huge break from conventional ways of thinking. No one but the Puritans could have made this covenantal kind of agreement.
Worth reading again today:
"IN THE name of God, Amen.
We whose names are underwritten, the loyal subjects of our dread sovereign Lord, King James, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland king, defender of the faith, etc., having undertaken, for the glory of God, and advancement of the Christian faith, and honor of our king and country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the Northern parts of Virginia, do by these presents solemnly and mutually in the presence of God, and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil body politic, for our better ordering and preservation and furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame such just and equal laws, ordinances, acts, constitutions, and offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good of the colony, unto which we promise all due submission and obedience.
In witness whereof we have hereunder subscribed our names at Cape-Cod the 11 of November, in the year of the reign of our sovereign lord, King James, of England, France, and Ireland the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domine 1620."
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
The Riots in France
It's useful to talk with your older children about the riots in France. Why aren't immigrants rioting in the US? The seeds for this rebellion against the French society was seeded, watered, and fertilized over many years. The social structures there do not give them any economic equality, and the Muslims are not interested in conforming to the "French" way of living.
Read Thomas Sowell's excellent column for good insights.
http://www.townhall.com/opinion/columns/thomassowell/2005/11/08/174706.html
You can look at these surface issues, but here's the thing to talk with your kids about -- what are the heart issues involved?
It's useful to talk with your older children about the riots in France. Why aren't immigrants rioting in the US? The seeds for this rebellion against the French society was seeded, watered, and fertilized over many years. The social structures there do not give them any economic equality, and the Muslims are not interested in conforming to the "French" way of living.
Read Thomas Sowell's excellent column for good insights.
http://www.townhall.com/opinion/columns/thomassowell/2005/11/08/174706.html
You can look at these surface issues, but here's the thing to talk with your kids about -- what are the heart issues involved?
Good Insights -- on heathens and the First Amendment
"Many of our people, without knowing it, are Christian heathen, and demand as much missionary effort as the heathen of foreign lands." -- Booker T. Washington
"Why...must government be neutral about religion? Because, we are told, the First Amendment demands it by forbidding any 'establishment of religion.' But this is nonsense. The First Amendment says nothing of the sort, and I wish atheists would read it as literally as they think most Christians read the Bible. 'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof' means something very different from 'Government must be neutral about religion.' It bars the Congress of the United States from legislation that either establishes a religion or prohibits its free exercise. This left the states free to do both, and for a long time they did. Several states had official religions as late as the 1830s. You may deplore this, but don't say the Constitution bans it, because it plainly doesn't. Now we are told that the Constitution forbids everything from a moment of silence in the classroom to the phrase under God in the Pledge of Allegiance!" —Joseph Sobran
"Many of our people, without knowing it, are Christian heathen, and demand as much missionary effort as the heathen of foreign lands." -- Booker T. Washington
"Why...must government be neutral about religion? Because, we are told, the First Amendment demands it by forbidding any 'establishment of religion.' But this is nonsense. The First Amendment says nothing of the sort, and I wish atheists would read it as literally as they think most Christians read the Bible. 'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof' means something very different from 'Government must be neutral about religion.' It bars the Congress of the United States from legislation that either establishes a religion or prohibits its free exercise. This left the states free to do both, and for a long time they did. Several states had official religions as late as the 1830s. You may deplore this, but don't say the Constitution bans it, because it plainly doesn't. Now we are told that the Constitution forbids everything from a moment of silence in the classroom to the phrase under God in the Pledge of Allegiance!" —Joseph Sobran
Monday, November 07, 2005
About Gas Prices
I filled up on gas at $1.99 yesterday. I'm sure the Des Moines Register post a major headline "Bush Causes Gas to Fall $1 in 75 Days" any time now. (After all, if it was Bush's fault the price went up to $3, surely he gets the credit for making it go down $1?)
Alan Reynolds writes a nice column about oil profits, prices and politics. "If prices or crude oil and gasoline really rise and fall at the whim of U.S. petroleum companies, why would oil and gas prices ever fall?"
Make sure your kids get some basic economics so they can be good citizens.
I filled up on gas at $1.99 yesterday. I'm sure the Des Moines Register post a major headline "Bush Causes Gas to Fall $1 in 75 Days" any time now. (After all, if it was Bush's fault the price went up to $3, surely he gets the credit for making it go down $1?)
Alan Reynolds writes a nice column about oil profits, prices and politics. "If prices or crude oil and gasoline really rise and fall at the whim of U.S. petroleum companies, why would oil and gas prices ever fall?"
Make sure your kids get some basic economics so they can be good citizens.
Transparency?
Fun quote from Ann Coulter: "Minority Leader Harry Reid dramatically invoked an obscure Senate rule to close the Senate for two hours, putatively in order to rehash old arguments about the Iraq war in closed session. In other words, Reid demanded more transparency in government by shutting the doors, throwing out the public, dimming the lights, and turning off the TV cameras in the chambers of the U.S. Senate. "
Fun quote from Ann Coulter: "Minority Leader Harry Reid dramatically invoked an obscure Senate rule to close the Senate for two hours, putatively in order to rehash old arguments about the Iraq war in closed session. In other words, Reid demanded more transparency in government by shutting the doors, throwing out the public, dimming the lights, and turning off the TV cameras in the chambers of the U.S. Senate. "
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Saturday, November 05, 2005
25 Years Ago
Ronald Reagan was elected President 25 years ago yesterday -- Nov 4, 1980.
President Reagan reduced taxes and took firm stands that helped end the Cold War.
But for the husbands and fathers who read this blog, I want to emphasize one thing about Ronald Reagan that we need to emulate more: his optimism.
Our families need us to identify hope in the future, see potential for progress, and have confidence in God working out his plans. Are there tough days ahead, likely tougher than some in the past? You bet. But we're God's guys in this situation, and God plus anyone is a majority force.
I think about what they tell the Navy Seals in training: "You can do three to ten times what you think you can do." God promises us much bigger harvests than that (30, 60, and 100-fold!).
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained." (Philippians 3:13-16)
Ronald Reagan was elected President 25 years ago yesterday -- Nov 4, 1980.
President Reagan reduced taxes and took firm stands that helped end the Cold War.
But for the husbands and fathers who read this blog, I want to emphasize one thing about Ronald Reagan that we need to emulate more: his optimism.
Our families need us to identify hope in the future, see potential for progress, and have confidence in God working out his plans. Are there tough days ahead, likely tougher than some in the past? You bet. But we're God's guys in this situation, and God plus anyone is a majority force.
I think about what they tell the Navy Seals in training: "You can do three to ten times what you think you can do." God promises us much bigger harvests than that (30, 60, and 100-fold!).
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained." (Philippians 3:13-16)
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Male-bashing
Jennifer Roback Morse has a useful insight about male-bashing feminists: "Male-bashing has developed into a full-blown art-form in this country. And strangely enough, the male-bashing is often accompanied by the presumption that men and women are the same in every significant way. No one seems to notice the logical conclusion: if men are bad, and women and men are the same, ergo, women must be bad."
Jennifer Roback Morse has a useful insight about male-bashing feminists: "Male-bashing has developed into a full-blown art-form in this country. And strangely enough, the male-bashing is often accompanied by the presumption that men and women are the same in every significant way. No one seems to notice the logical conclusion: if men are bad, and women and men are the same, ergo, women must be bad."
Appropriate Anger
We get all hung up on anger. Anger is a serious spiritual problem. I personally really struggle with anger (rage, actually) because there was a period in my pre-Christian life when I cultivated rage and hate for its power.
Christian men do need to get angry, just at the right things, people, and events. That's why I can recommend Doug Giles column, where he rails against milquetoast passivity. He has two great recommendations:
"1. Don’t unleash your anger on your loved ones, friends or pets (unless you have a cat).
2. Don’t waste your wrath on the inconsequential. For example, I wanted to get really peeved at the people down here in Miami who are screaming for the government to take care of them post-Wilma because they did not take care of themselves pre-Wilma as they were warned to do. Instead of getting wound-up, I decided that I would chill out with one of my stockpiled Coronas and a beautiful Cuesta Rey #9 in my hurricane-shuttered, generator-powered, canned-food-filled, fully armored home. Remember, soldier, anger has a shelf life. Use it sparingly and wisely. "
Anger has a shelf-life. That's a great insight.
We get all hung up on anger. Anger is a serious spiritual problem. I personally really struggle with anger (rage, actually) because there was a period in my pre-Christian life when I cultivated rage and hate for its power.
Christian men do need to get angry, just at the right things, people, and events. That's why I can recommend Doug Giles column, where he rails against milquetoast passivity. He has two great recommendations:
"1. Don’t unleash your anger on your loved ones, friends or pets (unless you have a cat).
2. Don’t waste your wrath on the inconsequential. For example, I wanted to get really peeved at the people down here in Miami who are screaming for the government to take care of them post-Wilma because they did not take care of themselves pre-Wilma as they were warned to do. Instead of getting wound-up, I decided that I would chill out with one of my stockpiled Coronas and a beautiful Cuesta Rey #9 in my hurricane-shuttered, generator-powered, canned-food-filled, fully armored home. Remember, soldier, anger has a shelf life. Use it sparingly and wisely. "
Anger has a shelf-life. That's a great insight.
The Problem with Utility as a Measure of Good
I'm a reasonable fan of technological progress. I'm not completely blind to the spiritual and cultural problems technological advances have created, and will continue to accelerate. (The real problems of mankind haven't changed in thousands of years.)
These days I watch the fascination of the Internet and Web 2.0 and the Google "brain." People get excited, people get rich.
Most of the arguments for going forward are utilitarian: X technology helps people do Y better, so it must be good.
Simon Ings, a science fiction writer, said this: "When our machines overtook us, too complex and efficient for us to control, they did it so fast and so smoothly and so usefully, only a fool or a prophet would have dared complain."
May the Lord help us to be fools and prophets at the right time.
I'm a reasonable fan of technological progress. I'm not completely blind to the spiritual and cultural problems technological advances have created, and will continue to accelerate. (The real problems of mankind haven't changed in thousands of years.)
These days I watch the fascination of the Internet and Web 2.0 and the Google "brain." People get excited, people get rich.
Most of the arguments for going forward are utilitarian: X technology helps people do Y better, so it must be good.
Simon Ings, a science fiction writer, said this: "When our machines overtook us, too complex and efficient for us to control, they did it so fast and so smoothly and so usefully, only a fool or a prophet would have dared complain."
May the Lord help us to be fools and prophets at the right time.
Thinking about Suitcase Nukes
There's an excellent article by Brendan Miniter that reviews the "suitcase nukes" information. Read this, think about why we want to believe it. Let's work to be discerning men, not gullible.
There's an excellent article by Brendan Miniter that reviews the "suitcase nukes" information. Read this, think about why we want to believe it. Let's work to be discerning men, not gullible.
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