Never Out Of His Sight

As a young boy I walked to school. The path I followed sent me right past my grandparents’ house. Even though I was not aware of it, my grandparents would watch me all the way to the elementary school. They were looking out for me.

God is watching and aware of everything we do, including both our actions and our motives. For the follower of Jesus that should bring more comfort than pain. In fact, it should encourage us to be bold and strong for Him. In 2 Chronicles 16, God is expressing his disappointment with King Asa for not trusting Him, and in verse 9 we hear God’s purpose behind watching over us: “For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him…."

God is looking out for you to strengthen you. Be bold for him today.

Sharpening The Ax

I am just getting back from a couple days away, meeting with the healthy church life cohort of the Indiana District Assemblies of God. It is a great time of mind stretching fellowship with other pastors who are committed to personal growth. “Iron sharpens iron” in that setting.

In Mark 12:30, Jesus calls us to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Getting away occasionally for study and interaction with others in a learning environment helps me to do that.

It has been said: If you want your car to run for 200,000 miles, change the oil. If you want to cut down a forest, sharpen your ax. And I would add, if you want to be your best for God, keep growing.

Rest for The Weary

Ever feel like life is accelerating beyond your capacity to keep up? Recently, the pace of life and an increase in activities have slowed the frequency of my blogging. Life’s demands are heavy on many people these days. If that is you, here is a word from God’s Word to encourage you. It comes from the Bible paraphrase called “The Message” and is found in Matthew 11:28-30. Listen closely at what Jesus has to say.

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."