I am a Mormon… NOT!

Indianapolis was chosen by the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (The Mormons) as one of its 12 target cities to focus their message at this time. You can see their efforts in billboards and television commercials popping up in greater metro Indy. Their catch phrase, and hence this article is stated as “I am a Mormon.” Mormons are nice people, they’re good people, they don’t drink, even coffee , or smoke. They’re sincere, good business people, and good marketers. But, do we want their religion?

Mormons claim to be a part of Christianity, and yet claim to have a later, more correct revelation about God and His will beyond the old and new testaments. Let’s explore some of the contrasts between Orthodox Christianity and Mormonism: The following is a clip from All About Religion.org

Mormonism vs. Christianity - The Differences

Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) was birthed in 1820 by a vision in which two celestial personages appeared to Joseph Smith claiming all existing churches were wrong, all their creeds were an abomination, and all their professors were corrupt. According to these personages, Smith had been chosen to restore—not reform— a church that had disappeared from the face of the earth. The Mormon doctrines that evolved from this vision compromise confuse or contradict the nature of God, the authority of Scripture and the way of salvation.

Mormonism vs. Christianity - View of God

First, while Christians believe that God is spirit, Joseph Smith taught, “God Himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens!” Mormonism also holds to a plurality of Gods and contends that “as man is God once was; as God is man may become.” Additionally, the Latter-day Saints compromise the nature of the God-man, Jesus Christ. In Christianity, Jesus is the self-existent creator of all things. In Mormonism, he is the spirit brother of Lucifer who was conceived in heaven by a celestial Mother and came in flesh as the result of the Father having sex with the Virgin Mary.

Mormonism vs. Christianity - Revelation

Furthermore, in sharp distinction to orthodox Christian theology, Mormons do not believe that the Bible is the infallible repository for redemptive revelation. In their view, the Book of Mormon is “the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion.” Two further revelations complete the Mormon quad, namely Doctrines and Covenants and The Pearl of Great Price. Doctrines and Covenants is a compilation of divine revelations that includes the doctrine of polygamy. Not until threatened by the federal government did Mormon president Wilford Woodruff receive a revelation relegating polygamy to the afterlife. The Pearl of Great Price is no less troubling. It was this extra-biblical revelation that was used by Mormonism to prevent African Americans from entering the priesthood and from being exalted to godhood.

Mormonism vs. Christianity - Heaven

Finally, while Christians believe that they will stand before God dressed in the spotless robes of Christ’s righteousness, Mormons contend that they will appear before heavenly Father dressed in fig-leaf aprons holding good works in their hands. According to the Latter-day Saints, virtually everyone qualifies for heaven. Murderers, unrepentant whoremongers and the world’s vilest people make it into the Telestial heaven; lukewarm Mormons, religious people, and those who accept the Mormon gospel in the spirit world typically enter the Terrestrial heaven; and temple Mormons make it to the Celestial heaven. Only those who are sealed in secret temple rituals, however, will make it to the third level of the Celestial kingdom, become God’s of their own planets.

These and many other doctrinal perversions exclude Mormonism from rightly being called Christian.

Isaiah 43:10 says, "'You are my witnesses,' declares the LORD , 'and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me.'"

Learn More!

Copyright Christian Research Institute and Hank Hanegraaff. Used by permission

WORD WATCH

I feel a little conviction right now about cleaning up my speech. I work with a bunch of guys who are very professional when talking to our clients and partners, but in our group will use the full English language. And, I have drifted down that path using some words that shouldn’t come out of my mouth. And I know words matter and can destroy or support our witness and walk. So here are some verses I’m trying to ponder.

Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

This is the first verse that came to mind. Clearly some of my language has been less than wholesome, and not constructive. Exodus 20:7 “You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. Here’s God on record about not damning this, or invoking the Trinity’s names on anything un-holy.

I should take it as seriously as He does.

Colossians 3:16

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

Don’t expect to quite hear me singing through life, but if we let The Message dwell in us, and have our mind focused on our purpose, worldly talk is less likely to leak out.

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Our words come from our thought life, and there is a way to positively focus our thinking. Filling our thoughts with good stuff, and as the next verse says, being willing to catch ourselves and take captive any bad thoughts leading to bad talk.

2 Corinthians 10:5

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Guarding our tongues (my tongue) is an ongoing battle. Let’s hold each other accountable for our walk and our talk. Here’s what brother James says:

James 3:2-10 2

We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. 3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.

MARGIN

Luke 6:12 It was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God.

I was talking with one of our regular Fishersmen who described his very full weekend, with many good activities and accomplishments. But then he described being grumpy on Sunday afternoon, and he was having trouble getting out of his funk, and not grumbling to his wife and children.

We can all relate to that. It’s not as much needing ME time, as it is just having some down time, or a bit of MARGIN in our busy schedules in this hectic world. I was impressed with an Operation Timothy lesson that challenged us in, “If you only have 3 more years to live. Only 3 years to accomplish your life’s purpose, how would you use your time?” Jesus earthly ministry only lasted about 3 years, yet mission accomplished, and He saved and changed the world for eternity.

Only 3 years, but He took time out to get alone, out away from the city, to be calm, focused, and talk to Dad. How’s your margin? Too many plates spinning? Any down time,? empty box time?unscheduled reflection time available to you in the next few days? Weeks?

Retreat, reflect, refocus, recharge, talk to Dad, and perhaps you’ll be better able to accomplish the good works God has for you to walk in, that He prepared for you before the beginning of the world.

I'll be back!

When I was a young child, attending Sunday school, I must have slept through a lesson or two, because when my buddy said, "You know Jesus is coming back again sometime," I said "Where do you get that?" "You must be crazy." You see, I had heard the bible stories, but I had missed this important story. I thought we were talking about a historical figure, a teacher, a good man, the baby in the manger. I didn't know we were

talking about the risen Lord and coming future King.

Here's the story...

Jesus talking to his followers, shortly before his death and resurrection...

John 14:1-3 New Living Translation (NLT)

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home.[a] If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?[b] 3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.

Jesus to his followers, after giving them their directives...

Acts 1:9-11 New Living Translation (NLT)

9 After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. 10 As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!”

The apostle Paul to Jesus' followers at the church in Thessalonica after they had been frightened by reports that Jesus had already come back, and that they had missed it...

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 New Living Translation (NLT)

13 And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died[a] so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died. 15 We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died.[b] 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died[c] will rise from their graves. 17 Then, together with them, we who

are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. 18 So encourage each other with these words.

The Apostle John in the revelation given to him about future things seeing the followers of Christ who have risen, getting ready to participate in the wedding feast of King Jesus...

Revelation 19:6-9 New International Version (NIV)

6 Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. 7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come,and his bride has made herself ready. 8 Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.” (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.) 9 Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.”

Friends, Mohammad is not coming back. Confusius is not coming back. Buddah may have come back as a cow or a butterfly in another life (NOT). But, Jesus Christ, the King of kings, and Lord of Lords is coming back! And He's coming back soon!

Earthquakes in Virginia? Record Heat and Drought in Indiana?

Earthquakes in Virginia and Colorado in the same day. Record heat and dryness in Indiana. We find ourselves in a time with an explosion of the information age, and the pace of life hectic, with people rushing to and fro. The world has a lack of confidence in our financial systems and political leaders. Does the Bible have anything to say about times like these?

Romans 8:19-23

¹⁹ For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. ²⁰ Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, ²¹ the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. ²² For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. ²³ And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children,^[a] including the new bodies he has promised us.

Daniel 12:1b-4

Then there will be a time of anguish greater than any since nations first came into existence. But at that time every one of your people whose name is written in the book will be rescued. ²Many of those whose bodies lie dead and buried will rise up, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting disgrace. ³ Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever. ⁴ But you, Daniel, keep this prophecy a secret; seal up the book until the time of the end, when many will rush here and there, and knowledge will increase.”

Matthew 24:14

¹⁴ And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.

Revelation 22:12

¹² “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.

He is coming soon! Get the word out, and walk the walk!

CONVICTION

Jesus told his followers just before His passion and return to heaven, “But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper (the Holy Spirit) will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me; and concerning righteousness, because I go to the (heavenly) Father and you no longer see Me; and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.” John 16:7-11

Pastor Bruce in his sermon on Sunday said, “Nobody gets saved unless they first get convicted!” Think about that… Unless we get judged in our own hearts as guilty, convicted of being sinners, missing the mark or standard of God’s righteousness; and knowing that we know that we aren’t right before God, then we won’t be ready to accept God’s pardon, Jesus’ grace, or unmerited favor in his atoning sacrifice, to be born again to new life.

Are you born again of the Spirit of God through the grace of Jesus Christ? Are you in His family now following Him? Were you convicted of your sin? Are you now a saint, because you are an Ex convict, that is, convicted of your sin, judged with the penalty paid once and for all by Christ?

If we are His, the Holy Spirit keeps on convicting us daily so that we may crucify our flesh, or natural man, and put on Jesus’ character and life. Paul says, “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24

If you are a Christian, it means you’ve first been convicted!

Checking in with Dad

Son, David, is on some school travel out of the country, and for the first 36 hours, we hadn't heard if he made it, or what he’d been up to since he left Indianapolis. Dad's would like to know! Are you OK? Do you need anything? Are you living like you should and enjoying life?

My Operation Timothy guys and I were talking about prayer and praying last Friday morning. Prayer is really just talking with God. If you are a Christ follower, it means “checking in with Dad,” your Heavenly Father. He’d like you to report in, “Are we OK? Do you want to ask for anything? Are you living like you should, and enjoying life?”

We studied on Friday that if we're struggling with life” we can draw near to the throne of Grace with boldness, to receive mercy and grace in a time of need.” We were reminded that “if we talk to Dad, and confess our mistakes, He'll forgive us and clean us up.”

Last Thursday, David Sherron reminded us that it's good to Praise before we Petition. Tell Dad you still love Him, that you're thankful for your life, blessings, and opportunities, before you give Him your laundry list of needs. And of course, Operation Timothy talks about the A.C.T.S. of prayer: Adoration or Praise, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplications. Are you current with your dad? Any of these areas you two should have a good talk about?

Have you checked in with Dad recently? He'd like to hear from you!

Being a Christ Follower

Pastor Bruce says,

There are 5 key aspects of being a disciple, or follower of Jesus Christ:

1. DEDICATION: Living to please God versus ourselves. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 Romans 8:8

2. OCCUPATION: Working for God not only in serving at church or in the community, but viewing our career, and how we operate at work as if we are working for the LORD. Colossians 3:23

3. EDUCATION: Growing in our knowledge of God, His ways, and learning how to live successfully. 2 Peter 3:18

4. INSPIRATION: Being empowered by God to live the Christian life. Walking in the Spirit. Romans 8:4

5. CELEBRATION: Giving praise to God. Glorifying God and living a life of thankfulness. Psalm 30:4

This is genuine Christianity, being a Jesus follower, or disciple. To be a fisher of men means to be a disciple maker. Matthew 28:19-20 Helping others, family and friends live a successful, joyful life in Christ, with dedication, occupation, education, inspiration, and celebration is the real deal.

It's a great calling, and rewarding life purpose. Go for it Fishersmen!

Love Your Mother?

I saw a green bumper sticker on a car the other day that made me think. It said “Love Your Mother,” and had a picture of the earth. It made me think, “ We should love our father (Heavenly Father) that made our mother “earth” and breathed life into man long ago.

Earth Day corresponded to Good Friday this year and it made me think. The earth was cursed along with man when Adam and Eve sinned. The earth was perfect, but now it has some problems. The Bible says that creation groans, waiting for its redemption by a Savior. It made me think, on Good Friday, Earth Day, The Savior died for the sins of man, and not only redeems man, but sets the stage for the redemption of creation, including the future recreation of a new heaven and new earth.

This Sunday is Mother’s Day, and it makes me think. Gee, I’m thankful for my mother. A woman who loved, cared for, and sacrificed her own will many times to raise me. It made me think, “I want the Savior to bless my mother,” and, “I’m so thankful for her!”

Love Your Mother?

Love Your Mother!

Thank Dad for your mother this weekend. Tell your mother thanks, and that you love her. Tell her that Jesus loves her even more.

It makes you think!

Easter Thoughts

I hope you had as good an Easter weekend as I did. Yes, there was family and good food. But I was also blessed around this Easter with encouraging and inspirational messages by God’s people.

At the Billy Graham Evangelical Association meeting I was privileged to attend, Franklin Graham shared an update on his family, and some neat things BGEA and Samaritan’s Purse are doing to share Jesus Christ with the world. He spoke of “Boldness” in taking a little risk to tell others that Jesus loves them before they are lost without Him forever.

Most of my family attended Heartland Church on the Northeast side, and we enjoyed a very uplifting service with a well crafted message for seekers, communicating that to God, “Everyone is welcome,” to receive forgiveness and eternal life. Also, that with God, “Anything is possible.”

They also shared a very simple, but accurate mnemonic for a person coming to Christ, and meeting Jesus through a sinner’s prayer: I Know. I’m Sorry. And, I’m Ready. I know that Jesus is the Son of God, who He said He was. I’m sorry for my sin, and I know I need a Savior. I’m finally ready to accept and receive Him as my Lord and Savior, and ready to stop driving my own life and let Him change me.

In an article in a recent cbmc publication, there was a great reminder of the uniqueness and power of Jesus Christ. Bible stories that tell us:

· Jesus loves the unlovely Luke 19-1-10 (A TAX COLLECTOR)

· Jesus is willing to forgive the lowest sinner John 8:1-11 (A PROSTITUTE, OR ADULTERER)

· Jesus can provide for your need Matthew 14:15-21 (FEED A MULTITUDE)

· Jesus can heal your hurt Luke 17:11-19 (LEPROSY)

· Jesus can give you eternal life John 11:1-44 (RAISING A DEAD MAN)

Finally, in a recent book by Billy Graham, he and son, Franklin explain why millions of people have been willing to listen to Billy over the past 60 years. “It’s not what I have to say, but what God’s Word has to say to them.” That’s why they come out by the thousands into stadiums over all over the world for 3 generations.

Give your friends, family and acquaintances God’s word with boldness. Let them know everone is welcome, and anything is possible. Tell them about Jesus, why He’s special and unique. And , if they know, are sorry, and ready, help them open the door of their hearts to Him.

Saul and David

“Has the LORD as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry.” The prophet Samuel to King Saul after his failure to carry out God’s orders in the destruction of the Amalekites and their king Agag. 1 Samuel 15

“Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” The LORD to the prophet Samuel before he anointed David king over Israel. 1 Samuel 16

King Saul was handsome. King Saul was tall and popular. King Saul thought for himself, and wanted to do things for god, as he thought best in his own mind. King David was smaller, the runt of Jesse’s litter. He was relegated to tending sheep while his older brothers represented the family, fighting along King Saul.

The people wanted a king. Saul was the people’s popular choice. And, the prophet Samuel thought Saul looked good in his armor too. But, Saul wanted to fit God and His agenda into Saul’s convenient schedule. He was a rule bender. When Samuel showed up late one day, Saul went ahead and played priest and offered a sacrifice himself. When God said wipe out every Amalekite and everything they have, Saul, thought better, and decided to spare king Agag, the best sheep, and spoil. And, when God through Samuel said, your reign is over, David’s the guy; Saul foolishly tried to kill David and stay on top. Saul fudged on his orders. Saul was a compromiser, who wanted to make God, the people, and especially himself happy. It cost Saul the kingdom, God’s favor, and his peace of mind.

King David had is own problems, but, king David was a man after God’s own heart. When the average Israelite saw insurmountable problems, (e.g. an eight foot Philistine, named Goliath), David saw the irresistible will and unlimited power of God. “You come to me with a sword and a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted. This day the LORD will deliver you up into my hands…” The youth David, to the Champion of the Philistines. 1 Samuel 17:45, 46a

These three chapters in 1^st Samuel are sobering to me. They tell of the perfect will of God, the imperfect obedience of man, the fickleness of the people, and the power of setting one’s heart after God. It’s sobering, because our culture thinks like Israel, and many times I think like Saul. “Keep everybody happy, and do something for God, while I conveniently fit him into my agenda.” After I do what I want to do, I’ll go to church, write a check for an offering, and ask God to bless me.

But, am I uncompromisingly following the specific will of God to the letter? Is my heart right like David’s? Would I destroy and burn up everything in my life that is a hindrance to my obedience to God and his kingdom? I know I come up short. How about you? Read 1 Samuel 15 through 17 and see if you get challenged and convicted about your walk.

Ruth and Boaz

I’m going through the Chronological Bible which has me transitioning from the book of Judges to the story of Ruth. What a change! The clans of Jacob have been fighting each other over a land grab and almost wipe out Benjamin after a shameful scandal of the abuse of a concubine. Judges leaves us with a mess in Israel, because it says, “Everyone did what they thought was right in their own eyes.”

The love story of Ruth is much more encouraging. A foreigner, Ruth, a Moabite woman marries into a Jewish family and learns to love her mother in law and the ways and God of Israel. Ruth sacrificially gleans in the fields of a relative of Naomi’s and brings enough grain home to keep Naomi and herself alive in tough times. Boaz, a righteous man, and kinsman redeemer, ends up looking after Ruth and Naomi, and redeeming the women and their former lands for a heritage.

Boaz is touched by Ruth’s love for her mother in law, and her willingness to cast her lot with him, self described as an older man, not as young and handsome as men more Ruth’s age. But they happily marry and put a family together. Ruth gives birth to Obed, who later becomes the father of Jesse, and the grandfather of King David. God really honors this family’s selflessness and desire to do what’s right.

In fact, the name “Ruth,” has come to mean Love! You may be more familiar with the negative “ruthless” meaning without any love or regard for one’s fellow man. Quite a change from the selfishness of Judges to the selflessness of Ruth! Read this inspiring story when you have a chance.

Knowing God, part 1

A few weeks back, in a blog article we saw a Happiness Equation. It asserts that the road to a happy life, or having joy begins with getting to know God. This leads to the question, “How does one get to know God?”

First, a man has to believe there is God, and that he’s not Him. And without faith it is impossible to please Him (God), for he who comes to God (gets to know Him) must believe that He is (exists) and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6

The creation tells us there must be a powerful God. “because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.” Romans 1:19-20

Still, many people, not wanting to be accountable to a higher power, reject the idea of God. The bible verse Psalm 14 tells of the special Holiday for atheists on April 1^st. ‘The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” There is no one who does good. The LORD looked down from heaven upon the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God.’ Psalm 14:1 (April Fools Day)

But which of man’s religions points to the true God, and what is He like? The bible asserts that Jesus, is God, and the best and only true way to get to know Him. “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,” “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.” Colossians 1:19-20

The good news is that God wants a relationship with man. He wants to reveal himself to us. Jesus came to be known, and wants us to get to know Him. “Here I am! I stand at the door (of your heart) and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20

Getting to know God then begins with a heartfelt desire to seek a relationship with the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Next time: Pursuing God

Locked and Loaded

(Having your sword at your side ready to defend and do battle for the kingdom…)

God's word describes the Bible as being alive and powerful, and as the sword of the Spirit. When Nehemiah and the boys were rebuilding the walls around Jerusalem, they had their swords in one hand and were working with the other. If you are attacked, or if you need to do battle, having your Bible back on the shelf at home won't do you much good. We need the sword in the scabbard at our side. We need our gun loaded and in our holster. We need key passages of God's Word in our minds and hearts, ready to go. As Christian ambassadors and soldiers, we need to be "locked and loaded."

1. I John 5:11-13 “And this is the testimony; God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God (Jesus) so that you may know that you have eternal life. “ I John 5:11-13

2. II Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! “ II Corinthians 5:17

3. I Peter 5:8-9 “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” I Peter 5:8-9

4. I Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” I Corinthians 10:13

5. Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

6. Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxius about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

7. I Peter 3:15-16 “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” I Peter 3:15-16

8. II Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” II Timothy 3:16

9. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

10. Romans 12:1-2 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship, Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2

11. Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

12. I Chronicles 29:11-12 “Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is Yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from You; You are the ruler of all things. I Your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.” I Chronicles 29:11-12

13. I Corinthians 7:24 “Brothers, each man, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation God called him to.” I Corinthians 7:24

14. II Timothy 2:2 “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.” II Timothy 2:2

The Happiness Equation (aka “The Joy Formula”)

A few years ago, actor Will Smith played the lead in a movie called “The Pursuit of Happiness,” a modern day Horatio Alger story where a down and out single dad uses pluck and determination to begin a successful career in financial services. Ask yourself, Isn’t that what all men and women want, to achieve happiness?

The Bible describes Joy as being superior to temporary happiness, or a short term, emotional high, and it gives a formula for Joy in the gospel of John:

Joy, comes from being fruitful or productive. (Serving God’s Kingdom) “I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” John 15:11 “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10

Fruitfulness, comes from abiding with God. To abide, means to remain with, or live with daily in communion or fellowship. “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

Abiding with God comes from being obedient to His Word. “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in His love.” John 15:10 “He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him.” John 14:21

The key to obeying God, is to Love Him. “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” John 14:14 “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment.” Matthew 22:37b

The better we know God, the more we will love Him. “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” 1 John 4:7-8 “O righteous Father, although the word has not known You, yet I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me; and I have made Your name known to them, and will make it known, so that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them. “ John 17:25

There it is, do you want to be happy, to have joy? Get to know God. If you know Him, you will love Him. If you love Him, you will find you will be able to obey Him. And if you obey Him, you will abide in fellow ship and sweet communion with Him. And, when you abide with Him, you’ll bear much fruit, which will bring you lasting Joy! KNOWING -> LOVING -> OBEYING -> ABIDING -> FRUITFULNESS -> JOY!

Do you want to be happy? To have Joy? Then, get to know God! “More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ,” Philippians 3:8

The World System

In Operation Timothy, cbmc’s one on one discipleship program, we’re learning that as Christians we are soldiers in an ideological war. Our enemies are the devil, our own fleshy human nature, and the world system.

“You only go around once in life, so grab all the gusto,” “If it feels so right, it can’t be wrong,” “The one with the most toys wins,” “If it feels good, do it,” “You deserve a break today,” “Just do it,” “You are a god,” “Get all you can, can all you get, Sit on the lid, and poison the rest.” These are some of the slogans that typify the world system’s philosophy. The bible says this world system is based on 3 areas of sin, The Pride of Life, Lust of the Eye, and Lust of the Flesh.”

Contrast this with biblical philosophy, “Love the Lord God with all your heart and all your mind and all your soul.” “Love your neighbor as yourself.” “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself.” “Put first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added to you.”

Quite a contrast for us to contemplate isn’t it? It’s easy for us to slip into the mindset of our culture, but God’s word says, “Do not be conformed by this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Are you conformed, or being transformed? How much time each day do your feed your mind on the things of God, or the things of the world system?

New Year Change Part 2

Last week I shared some thoughts and quotes about New Year’s Resolutions and the opportunity to change things in one’s life for the better. I thought I’d continue the theme and share some more thoughts from a couple of sources.

First, from a business coaching company, here are some thoughts on goal setting and keys to making effective change.

From Priority Mgmt some more keys to effective change:

1. Set high goals or stretch goals for yourself.

2.State goals in a positive way as Opportunities, rather than a negative way, as problems to overcome.

3. Put your health and physical wellbeing at the top of your agend, so you have the energy to be successful.

4. Make sure that your goals are consistent with, and an expression of your values and beliefs.

5. Focus on behavior versus thoughts. As Nike says "just do it" This year try not to think your way into a new way of acting. Rather act your way into a new way of thinking. We tend to think that ideas always come first, which leads to new behaviors. As a rule, theory seldom precedes practice. Start immediately and you'll see your performance and happiness soar.

As God said to Cain, "If you do well (behave well) will not your countenance be lifted up (Your attitude will improve!)." Cain didn't listen, and it didn't work out well for he or brother Abel.

From the biblical counseling foundation’s manual, here are a couple of more thoughts on what it takes to make effective change…

You can change biblically!

“The most significant decision you will ever make concerns your willingness to follow God’s plan for your life as revealed in the Bible. This decision directly impacts your daily life and your eternal destiny.”

“After you receive salvation by God’s grace through our Lord Jesus Christ, your growth in Christ and fitness to help others biblically will be in proportion to your faithfulness in biblically examining yourself and applying God’s truths to your life.”

Blessings as you work on positive change this year!

New Year's Resolutions

The Apostle Paul says we should put off the old and put on the new, and the beginning of a new year is a time we reflect on what we’d like to change and do a little goal setting for the future. Researchers tell us that top New Year’s Resolutions have to do with Weight Loss, Exercise,To Stop Smoking, Better money management, and Debt reduction. (Some of those are on my list.)

Researchers also say that making resolutions actually does help effect change. Here are some statistics:

· People who explicitly make resolutions are ten times more likely to attain their goals than people who don't.

· 64% are still keeping resolution after one month

· 46% are still keeping resolution after six month

Proactivechange.com says some keys to making resolutions successful are:

• Making the goal specific and measurable with a timeframe
• Writing your goal down
• Having accountability (getting support) Tell somebody about it.
• Tracking Your Progress against the goal
• Viewing failure as part of the process, and getting back on the wagon if you fall off

Have you thought about making some Spiritual New Year's Resolutions? Here are some possible spiritual goals for 2011:

· Attend church more regularly

· Read through the Bible this year (or for the over-achievers in 90 days)

· Establish a daily quiet time for prayer or reading the Word.

· Join a small group at church (or be more regular at the Fishersmen weekly breakfast)

· Participate in an outreach or evangelistic event this year

· Journal your prayer requests to see God’s faithfulness

· Become a mentor to someone this year (A Paul in Operation Timothy?)

How about sharing your New Year’s Resolutions with an accountability partner?

How about writing down a commitment or two at spending more time with God in 2011?