A Moment of Hope

What an exhilarating time it is to visit the mountains in the fall. Every color of the leaves shouts out that God exists! As you're visiting local mountains, let it remind you to also explore the biblical significance of mountains. Each mountain range in the Bible has some kind of spiritual truth we need to grasp. For example, we need to go to Mt. Hermon. It's the mountain range King David was referring to in Psalm 133:1-3. He wrote that when brothers and sisters dwell in unity, it's like receiving the refreshing dew from Mt. Hermon falling on us. Are you presently in disunity with someone? Then go to Mt. Hermon. Forgive them. Love them. Seek unity with them. As much as possible, we are to seek peace with all people (Romans 12:18), trying to be of one mind and spirit as God's people (Philippians 2:2). Refreshing blessings from God are poured out when we gather in unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Mountains in autumn are captivating. We can't stay away. And rightly so. The colors alone make us gasp at God's beauty. If you visit the mountains this fall, also think about the purpose of mountains in the Bible. They have a spiritual significance that is as deep and wondrous as the physical beauty. For example, go to Mt. Sinai. It's the place where Moses received the 10 Commandments (Exodus 20). It's God's moral law, perfectly describing his character. These laws are not suggestions, but commands. God gave them to us for our own good. They serve as celestial guardrails to protect us from harm. From forces trying to destroy us. When you visit Mt. Sinai, remember that we don't break God's laws, they break us! Examine each one of the Ten Commandments. How are you doing with each one? We are never closer to God than when we are obeying his law and will.

Don't you love going to the mountains this time of year? The majesty and colors of the leaves often leave us breathless. When you see the beauty of the mountains, remember to also take time to visit the different mountains in the Bible - ones that hold special significance for our spiritual development. For example, make sure you visit Mt. Carmel. What happened there? Elijah, the mighty prophet of God, did battle with the 450 godless prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). Some call it the Super Bowl of faith. As the contest begins, Elijah confronts all the prophets and says, "If God is God, you should follow him. If Baal is god, then follow him." Then he prayed in fervent faith and God's victory over Baal was overwhelming (James 5:17). Here is the spiritual importance of visiting Mt. Carmel: Who is your God? The Lord God who created the universe? Or the counterfeit gods of this world: money, sex, and power? God or Baal? How would you answer?

If you're going to the mountains this fall to enjoy its splendor, do some spiritual mountain-gazing as well. How can you do so? Go to Mount Moriah. It's where God told Abraham to go and sacrifice his only beloved son, Isaac (Genesis 22). Why would God ask Abraham to do this heinous act? Abraham had waited 25 years for this promised son. He was now a teenager and the love of his life. The answer is given to us in Genesis 22:1. God was using this command to test Abraham's faith. God wanted to know if he was still the primary passion of Abraham's life. Or had Isaac replaced God's place of primacy? When you visit Mt. Moriah, God tests your faith as well. Tests determine whether we know the information. And here is the one question God wants to pose: Does he possess first position in your heart? How would you answer? Is Jesus first in your life? It's a very important question we all must answer. It's a test God wants you to pass with flying colors. Will you?

The fall season always offers a chance to see God's multi-colored glory like no other time during the year. How? By going to the mountains. If you do so this year, always remember that mountains in the Bible are called "the high places." They are places where you can experience God like nowhere else. This autumn, make sure you visit the biblical mountains that will enhance your life in Jesus. For example, visit Mt. Ararat. As the rain ceased and the flood waters abated, the ark that carried Noah, his family, and all the animals landed on Mt. Ararat. (Genesis 6-9). It was from there that they descended to dry land and the human race had a new beginning. Mt. Ararat can mean the same for you in your spiritual journey. In Jesus, your sins are forever forgiven and you can begin anew. Start over. Have a new beginning. The old, your past, has passed away. The new, your present and future, begins today (2 Corinthians 5:17). No sin is beyond God's grace. Nothing in your past is beyond God's goodness. Make sure you visit Mt. Ararat. It's a place of new beginnings. And new hope.

"Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you" (Jeremiah 32:17). It's something we need to be reminded of every single day: Nothing is impossible with God. What does this mean for God's people? That God - the One who created this world - oversees this world. Oversees the laws of how this world operates. And can supersede those laws whenever he wants to. Any time. Any day. In every way. Here is a simple, memorable, two-word phrase to remind ourselves daily of God's omnipotent power: "But God!" Go through your Bible and underline all the times where there's a difficult problem facing God's people. Relational conflict. Lingering physical pain. A seemingly insurmountable mountain. Then look at what happened next: But God! God dealt with the problem in a supernatural way. Would you dare to believe today that God is bigger, greater, stronger than any of your problems? And that by faith - by trusting in him - he is able to supernaturally overcome them all? He is! Believe it. It's true! Today and forever. But God!

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6). The Bible is clear. Parents should be the primary educators in their children's lives. Practically speaking, this means parents must teach children themselves and be aware of what is being taught to their children while in school. Parents must then ensure their kids are receiving an education instead of indoctrination. What's the difference? Education teaches us how to think, while indoctrination teaches us what to think. Indoctrination means you're forcing a particular view upon kids instead of giving them a perspective where they can think for themselves and make their own choices. Whereas education means sharing factual information, and allowing children to come to their own understanding and conclusions. Education is very valuable. Indoctrination is very dangerous. Parents, fight hard for a sound education for your children. Work so that your kids will have a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11). So that we can all live in a nation that upholds life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

"You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16). It's the ninth of the Ten Commandments: Do not bear false witness. The command is clear. Do not lie. Ever. But there's another aspect of this commandment that's often overlooked. The aspect of slander. When you speak against someone who does not have the opportunity to hear what you've said - and defend themselves - you have slandered that person. Too many people are slandered, and irreparably damaged, by something said in a whisper. Or a prayer request. A casual comment. Words that are not only untrue, but spoken against a person who has no chance to give their side of the story. Which sometimes is the actual truth. So make sure in your speech that you uphold the ninth commandment. Be extremely careful with your words. Because they can never be erased. Paul said that the increase in slander is a sign of the end times (2 Timothy 3:1-5). Finally, think about this: Jesus said that we will be held accountable for every idle word that comes from our mouth (Matthew 12:36). That should cause all to pause! My mom was most certainly right when she said, "If you can't say something good about someone, don't say anything at all."

Have you ever thought about how much time Jesus spent in prayer? Jesus's prayerful connection to God the Father was the reason behind his great power. It's why the disciples asked Jesus to teach them only one thing: "Lord, will you teach us how to pray?" Jesus answered them, "When you pray, pray like this…" (Matthew 6:5-8). It's what we commonly refer to now as The Lord's Prayer. But note how Jesus began his instruction. By telling the disciples, not if they pray, but when they pray. Jesus's followers are expected to pray. So, when you do pray, pray dangerously! Pray this dangerous prayer: "Lord, break my heart for what breaks yours." The Holy Spirit will begin moving in your heart. Showing you circumstances that occur in this fallen world that break God's heart. Things that don't exist in heaven. Thy Kingdom come. What happens next? From your prayer, the Spirit will reveal to you what the Lord is calling you to do. Your life gains new purpose. You see what God created you to do. I dare you today to pray the most dangerous prayer possible: "Lord, break my heart for what breaks yours." You'll never be the same.

Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden is widely regarded as one of the most successful and revered coaches in the history of sports. Twelve consecutive national championships in the 1960's and 70's! One of his players once told me Coach Wooden frequently repeated this phrase to his teams: "Be quick, but don't hurry." Coach Wooden knew that quickness was a very important part of the game. Quicker players win games. They're able to get to where they need to be faster than others. But there's a difference between quickness and hurrying. When you hurry, you often make your biggest mistakes. Rushing to complete a task often leads to reckless missteps. I think Coach Wooden's advice is uncannily applicable to Christian life today. Jesus wants us to realize the signs of the times. To be quick in advancing the Gospel. To work diligently and serve others for Jesus. But we cannot hurry so much that we forget needed details to serve well (Proverbs 19:2). Astutely oversee what you need to do daily in order to work faithfully for Jesus. Be quick! Use your time on this earth to accomplish much for Jesus. But don't hurry to the point of being careless.

Do you trust God constantly and completely? Do you rest assured that as he leads you according to his will, he will also provide for your every need? You can. Because where God guides, God provides. It's impossible for God to steer you in the wrong direction. Because God is perfect, as is his guidance in your life. God's also a promise-keeper - and he promises us that we shall not want for anything (Psalm 23:1). His very name embodies provision. With him, we will never be misguided. We won't be led astray. We will never be lost. God has a perfect will for our lives. He wants to lead us to places where we can accomplish his will. Provision may not be imminent. But we are to go where he calls us. Without hesitation. Full throttle. Obedience is our purpose. Provision is God's promise. Seek God's guidance. Trust he will meet your every need. That's because where God guides, he always provides.

This is a true statement: the safest place you can ever be is in the will of God. When it's God's will you're seeking, when it's his direction you're following, you can proceed without worry. Without doubt or fear. Because the safest place to be is in the center of God's will. When you're walking in God's will, it doesn't mean you won't experience danger, toils, or snares. In fact, you may experience all those tribulations - at times simultaneously - and still be in the perfect will of God (John 16:33). In fact, though life may be tough when you're walking in God's will, it's the safest place you could ever be. How? Because God's will is like an exceptionally accurate compass - fixed and certain. He will never point you in the wrong direction. And he will always direct you along the right path (Proverbs 3:6). And know this: As you seek God's kingdom and will - above all else - God will provide for and protect you. God's will for your life is perfect. When you're walking in God's will, it's the safest place to be - no matter what your circumstances may be.

Scripture tells us that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). I think it's pretty clear here that pride is not from God. In fact, prideful people often become that way because they've rejected God's wisdom over a long period of time. Maybe months. Maybe years. Maybe a lifetime. And when we're used to walking through life with a prideful posture, we need something fairly severe to break us. To right our wrong thinking. To remind us of how truly little we actually control. And God's in the business of breaking prideful people. We see it time and time again throughout history. And Scripture. Prideful people are often brought to their knees. Maybe not immediately. But over time, it's almost a certainty. Scripture also teaches us to humble ourselves in the sight of the Lord and he will lift us up (James 4:10). Daily, God gives us opportunities to choose humility or pride. To choose to lift up self or our Creator. Humility is a choice. And I'd much rather choose to humble myself than have God do it for me. Choose humility. You're imitating Christ when you do.

Perhaps God's greatest gift of grace to all who believe in Jesus is this - his presence in our hearts. And it is this presence that gives us peace. Before leaving this earth, Jesus left us with promised peace. His peace (John 14:27). And it's a peace far greater than anything in or of this world. It's a supernatural peace - one which passes all understanding and comes only from the Creator of all (Philippians 4:7). Inside us. Never to be taken away. Sometimes we reduce God's gift of salvation to simply asking him repeatedly for presents. For earthly stuff. Our prayers are then filled with constant requests for God to give us things. But God wants us to see that his most valuable gift of all is not earthly presents but his eternal presence. This promised presence is what brings us his peace, no matter what our circumstances may be. God's presence is always more valuable than presents. Do you believe this?

In seeking God's will, peace is the key. What should you do when you have a huge decision before you? Especially one in which you don't know what to do? First: Pray. Ask Jesus for his wisdom. Second: Lay it before the Lord. Tell him you are willing to do whatever he asks. Third: Talk to trusted, Godly friends and seek their counsel. There is wisdom in a multitude of counselors (Proverbs 15:22). But above all - seek God's peace within. If you aren't experiencing God's peace, don't do it! Marilynn and I have never made a decision unless we have God's peace within. His peace indicates his will. And God's peace doesn't mean that circumstances surrounding you aren't still out of control. They may well be. But you know that God is always in control. And he will give you his peace - that which surpasses all understanding - to guard and guide your mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6). And there will be an infinite peace within you no matter what your circumstances may be. One more time: If you don't have God's peace, don't do it!

Someone once quipped that if the devil has put a bullseye on you, make sure you do this one thing: Become a moving target! This same idea is seen in action movies where the hero always tries to stay one step ahead of the villain. When he does, he's safe. When not, he's in danger. The same is true with our spiritual lives. We must exercise ourselves! Stay active in our spiritual walk. Keep moving, not giving the devil a foothold. If not, we are a prime target for the enemy who wants nothing more than to kill, steal, and destroy our lives (John 10:10). Keep growing in your faith. Keep moving toward others to serve them. Work out your salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). When you do, the enemy will have a hard time focusing his weapons upon you. And you will be able to keep moving in victory, more than a conqueror through Jesus who loves you so much.

There are numerous promises throughout the New Testament concerning the Second Coming of Jesus. They must be true, or he wouldn't have said so. Therefore, how should we live while we wait? Here is a great idea for all seasons of life: strengthen yourself. That's what David did. Pursued by King Saul, distressed, overwhelmed, and totally fatigued, David decided to strengthen himself (1 Samuel 30:6). He couldn't control his circumstances, but he could control his choices. He decided to strengthen his heart. Build his faith. Encourage his soul. If your physical body needs strengthening, no one can do your exercises for you. Lift weight for you. Run sprints for you. Swim laps for you. You must do it yourself. If you are overwhelmed and stressed today, and your faith feels like it's at a low ebb, strengthen yourself. Get up a little earlier tomorrow and read God's Word. Pray. Find someone else in need and go serve them. Share your faith with a spiritual seeker. Your strength will grow as you choose to strengthen yourself. And you'll be strong in the Holy Spirit should Jesus choose to return on that day!

We will meet Jesus one day. Either in his return to earth. Or in death. If he is God, he cannot lie. What should we do while we wait? Here is one suggestion from the apostle Paul: self-examine (2 Corinthians 13:5). What does this mean? Think about this analogy. When you go to the doctor, he or she may ask you to do regular home self-examinations. Look and feel for this kind of lump. Unusual moles. Painful joint movements. Surprising shortness of breath. Etc. Jesus, our Great Physician, does the same thing. Until we meet him again, either in death or his Second Coming, we are to self-examine our spiritual life. Prayer. Bible reading. Love for worship - both individually and corporately. Bearing other's burdens. Our union life in the Holy Spirit. Serving the needy. Sharing our faith with those who don't know Jesus. In places where you may be weak, strengthen your spiritual disciplines. Improve in those areas. Become stronger in places that need Jesus's healing graces. For you want Jesus to find you in good spiritual health when he returns.

The story is told that a man walked by a tombstone and saw the following written on it: Pause stranger as you pass me by, As you are now, is once was I, As I am now, so you will be, So prepare for death and follow me. Supposedly, another passerby saw these words and scratched on an addendum: To follow you, I'm not content Until I know the way you went. Humorous, for sure. But packed with a lot of truth - especially about how to live life now to the fullest. What is the first truth? We all will die. The statistics are in. Every single human being who has ever lived will die. The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). We all sin and break God's moral law. Sin brings death. Therefore, we all will die. The next truth is that there are only two destinations after we die. Jesus said so. And if he is God, and came from eternity to describe the next world to us, he would surely know. One road is broad and leads to eternal separation from God. It's the road many in our culture and world are on. It's filled with pilgrims who live according to their own lusts and desires. Ones who have declared themselves to be God and do what is right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25). One where people call good/evil and evil/good (Isaiah 5:20). The other road is narrow and few are on it. It leads to one narrow gate. His name is Jesus (John 14:6). Through his life, death and resurrection, those on this narrow road, ones who express fidelity and self-discipline to Jesus, are promised the gift of eternal life (Matthew 7:13-14). Solve the death problem today. Choose Jesus and the narrow road. Be assured of your eternal life in him. Once you do, you have conquered this life's greatest enemy: death. You need never fear it again. It's gone. Forever! And you can now live today to the fullest.

Recently, I was watching a TV show. The main characters said to another who was facing a desperate situation: "God won't give you more than you can handle." To which his friend desperately responded, "But I don't think I can handle this huge problem!" The main character paused, then calmly said, "Then God won't give it to you." God controls all. He knows the problems in this world. He knows what your heart can handle. That's most likely why Satan had to ask for Jesus's permission before he assaulted Peter's faith in Luke 22:31-32. Jesus knew Peter could handle the trial! Isn't that a wonderful note of encouragement? If something comes our way, God must have not only known we can handle it, but will also give us the grace to handle it. He promised that his grace would be sufficient in all circumstances (2 Corinthians 12:9). And if it's too much for us to handle? Deal with it! It won't come our way!

Years ago, Marilynn and I were driving down a country road somewhere in the Carolinas, and we saw a church sign that read: "The devil ain't ever too busy to rock the cradle of a sleeping backslider." What does this mean? A lot of people are sleep-walking through life. They allow their lustful urges to go unabated. They refuse to engage in this spiritual battle we have with the enemy. So, if you're just living your life for the purpose of eating, drinking, and being merry, what's the devil going to do with you? How will he treat you? That's easy. He'll just keep rocking your cradle to keep you asleep. Keeping you on life's sidelines so you're no threat to him in the game of life. Totally ineffective. Therefore, be alert (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Though we don't know the day nor the hour of Jesus's imminent return (Matthew 24:36), we are to be ready. Awake. Not allowing the devil to keep rocking our cradle and keep us asleep.

Yogi Berra is widely regarded as one of the best catchers in baseball history. He also became affectionately known for his "Yogisms." These are the phrases he coined in terms of quirky sayings and memorable malaprops. Here's one he used to say all the time: It ain't over till it's over! But this particular quip is actually biblical. It's why I added "God" to the original quote (while correcting the grammar!). Because nothing is ever over until God says it's over. God controls everything in all creation (Psalm 24:1). And he wants us to learn to wait on him. Therefore, never give up. Always learn to persevere. Trust. These are powerful principles that God gives us in his Word that underpin most all success in life. Do you have a dream? If so, don't give up! Work hard! Dream! Persevere! Because nothing in life is over until God says it's over.

My wife Marilynn and I went through about four years of infertility. Over time, we became a bit discouraged, and were experiencing times of unhappiness during the waiting. One weekend when we went to the beach for a vacation, I felt the Lord speak to my heart. He wanted me to share with Marilynn that she would never be happy with a baby until she was happy without one. So, I shared that with her. She heard and respected my counsel, then went for a long walk on the beach. During that walk, Marilynn dug a hole in the sand, and "buried" the baby that we both so desperately wanted. Burying her desire. Putting it in God's hands. Surrendering it to his timing. We also learned a lesson in what to do while you are waiting on the Lord for a promise. When Marilynn and I returned to Charlotte after our vacation, she began serving in a Crisis Pregnancy Center. Counseling young women who had easily become pregnant, yet did not want to have a baby. She served others in their greatest area of need. And Marilynn did eventually become pregnant. Through a miracle, by God's grace. We now have three grown children (and nine grandchildren)! They are the joy of our lives. God is faithful. But the Lord answered our prayer for a baby only after we surrendered the answer to him. I hope our experience helps you as you wait upon the Lord as well.

Jesus told his disciples that they were not greater than their master (John 13:16). What happens to him will happen to them. Jesus was giving his followers a warning. As he gave his life for them, they must be willing to give their lives for him. Of those listening to Jesus, all but one died a martyr's death. The other one, John, died after living into his 90's. But only after he suffered a great deal for following Jesus. Jesus lived and practiced this great leadership truth: Leaders must always be willing to do what they ask of others. A good leader fights in the battle with his followers, until their eventual success. In Genesis 17, Abraham practiced this leadership principle. He was asked by God to circumcise all in his camp. This included men of all ages. It was not a particularly fun or painless experience. But what's particularly interesting is that Abraham was circumcised himself. At the age of 99! Can you imagine? He practiced this leadership principle: He did what he asked of others. This truth transcends time. It promotes positive leadership. Good followership. And it allows tasks to be successfully completed!

My dad and I would often just sit down and talk. Dad to son. Son to dad. During these times, I learned some of life's most valuable lessons. One time, we were discussing prayer. It's power. Efficacy. Meaning. Dad paused. Looked heavenward. Musing, he uttered these words, "Sometimes I wonder if prayer isn't good, clear thinking." Of course, prayer is much more than this. It includes silent meditation. Confession of sins. Seeking God's will and purposes. Intercession for others in need. But my dad was on to something. Sometimes, prayer is simply thinking clearly. Possessing the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5). Thinking as he thinks. Which leads to living as he lived. And then doing what he tells us to do. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and might. Obey his commandments (Deuteronomy 11:1). When you do so, prayer becomes easier. More meaningful. For God is telling you, repeatedly and throughout your day, his will and purposes for your life.

Words are easy. Anyone can say anything at any time, as evidenced through this social media driven culture in which we live. But it's our actions that mean the most. They truly define what we feel. That's why the Bible adjures us to "bear one another's burdens" (Galatians 6:2). To "not grow weary of doing good" (Galatians 6:9). Jesus said to love your neighbor like you love yourself (Mark 12:31). People express that they really care for you through their words, actions, and deeds. When others express empathy and compassion for you, it's in that moment that you begin to want to know what they think - about a multitude of different subjects. Don't tell me what you believe, until you want to be involved in my life. Because people generally don't care what you know, until they know that you care.

Every athlete or leader knows this truth: The most important shot in any sport is the next one. You can't change yesterday. It has happened. It's gone. What you can do is learn from what happened, and make a better and right decision in the moment. Now. In the present. One very successful NFL quarterback was asked to define the reason for his extraordinary success. He simply responded, "Amnesia." He had learned to forget the past play(s) and simply focus on the next one. He said that was the major reason for his greatness. Paul points to this truth in Philippians 3:13-14. He is adjuring all followers of Jesus to not allow yesterday's failures to derail you from the upward call of God in Christ. In other words, don't look back, but up! Live in the moment. Seize the day! Enjoy what you have right now to the fullest. Because the most important shot in life is the next one.

Jesus wants us to know that he is sovereign over everything that happens in our lives. Nothing is beyond his control. And for his followers, we have the unyielding promise that all things work together for our good and his glory (Romans 8:28). Jesus also wants us to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). We see this in how Jesus handled Thomas, one of Jesus's disciples, after he had been raised from the dead. Thomas was not present when Jesus first appeared to his other followers. Thomas said that unless he touched his wounded hands and side, he would not believe it. Then Jesus appeared to Thomas in his resurrection glory, and invited him to touch what he desired. In response, Thomas fell and worshiped Jesus. Jesus then responded to Thomas's worship and told Thomas that he was blessed because he saw and believed. But how really blessed are those who have not seen, yet believe (John 20:29)? That's most of us. We have not seen a literal resurrected Jesus, yet we choose to believe in him. Trust him with our eternal lives. Trust him for today's needs. What is my point? If this is all true, then many experiences we call "coincidences" are not coincidences at all. They are simply God's way of remaining anonymous. To help grow our faith. Because Jesus wants us to learn to walk by faith, and not by sight!

Can you imagine having something or someone be the priority of your life, yet never doing anything to show it? It's impossible. King David knew this truth. When buying a piece of land where his son, Solomon, would eventually build the Temple, he refused the owner's offer of accepting it free of charge. David insisted on paying for the property. David could not imagine building the Temple, where daily sacrifices would be offered to God in thanksgiving for all he had given, and the cost being nothing. So, he paid a fair price for the land (2 Samuel 24:24). Jesus paid it all for us. We owe everything to him. He gave his life so our sins could be forever forgiven, and our gift of eternal life secured. David's attitude toward purchasing the property for the Temple should be the same attitude that we have in choosing to follow Jesus. What is yours? Because a faith that costs nothing is worth nothing. What price have you paid for choosing to follow Jesus?

Something or someone has the most important place in your life. Sits on the throne of your heart. Rules you from within. Here is the key question for all of us today: Does that place belong to Jesus? Jesus said that we can't love father or mother, nor son or daughter, more than him (Matthew 10:37). He must be our life's primary passion. He said that we are to seek the kingdom of God first and foremost in this life (Matthew 6:33). And, of course, the King of that kingdom is named Jesus. Then, he will supply all our other needs. God will not share his glory in our lives with anything or anyone else (Isaiah 42:8). He will not compete with another affection of our hearts. Second place means no place for him. God is either in first place or no place in your life. Is this the case with you? Today? Forever?

"The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord" (Proverbs 21:31). Scripture is clear. Repeatedly throughout the Bible we are told this truth: The battle belongs to the Lord. But even though Christians regularly hear this, our lives don't necessarily reflect it. What's the tell-tale sign that you don't believe the battle is the Lord's Incessant worry. Fear. Anxiety. If you believe there's something more you must do - something required of you - in order for the battle to be won, you are sorely mistaken! Nothing could be further from the truth! Because the opposite of human worry is Jesus's peace. Handing over your life's battles to the Lord invites the peace that surpasses all understanding to reside within you (Philippians 4:6-7). Friends, the enemy seems too large. We don't have the strength to fight him alone. That's why God reminds his people repeatedly throughout Scripture that the battle is his. Not ours! He fights for us. Let him. Surrender. Give it to him. Rest in faith that in his time, in his way, you will one day see his victory. How Jesus worked it all for your good and his glory. What are you facing today? What huge obstacle stands in your way? Give it to the Lord. In faith, believe he fights for you. It's his battle. The battle belongs to the Lord.

"Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming" (Matthew 24:42). Stay ready, and you don't have to get ready. This is true in every area of life. For athletes. Soldiers. Workers. Last minute preparation is hard, difficult, and rarely successful. It's also often a surefire way to fail. This is especially true for followers of Jesus. Every day we are to live in Jesus's presence. To be filled with his Holy Spirit. To remain in an irrevocable union relationship with him. Abiding in him. Resting in him. Knowing that he forever lives in us. But it's especially true in waiting for Jesus's Second Coming. He will return. He promised to do so (Matthew 24:14). It's an undeniable promise and reality in God's Word. If Jesus returns at this moment, would he find you ready? Excited at his return? Serving as he would wish you were? Sharing his gospel with others as he commands you to do? For if you stay ready, you don't have to get ready. And if you have to get ready for his Second Coming, you're probably not ready. And will get left behind.

"Better is the little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked" (Psalm 37:16). Less is more. It's a great life lesson I'm learning. I just don't need as much as I think I do. In fact, there is a freedom in having little. Think about it. The more you accumulate, the more things you own. And then, the more those things eventually own you. Your possessions require your time and money to be spent on them. Someone once joked that he didn't need to purchase a beach house as long as he had friends who owned one! The upkeep here would be on the friendship, not the beach house! How do Christians combat a culture of consumerism? One simple way is this. Pause and ask yourself, "Do I really need that?" Most often, the answer is no. And the same holds true with our words. We don't need to say so much! Guard your words. The more you speak, the more you can get yourself into trouble. Less stuff. Less words. And more of Jesus: a good way to live!

"Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you" (Ephesians 5:14). My last breath here will be my first breath there. Think about this beautiful reality. If you believe in Jesus, death will be like going to sleep, awakening, and arising to new life. Seeing the face of Jesus for the first time. And then all of our loved ones in heaven. And the multitude of saints who have gone before us. Plus, the angels! It's breathtakingly unimaginable. The statistics are in: one out of one of us dies. But death should not be feared by Christians! It has been overcome by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Therefore, believe in Jesus. Don't allow death to be feared, nor your heart be troubled (John 14:1). You'll awaken in heaven. Soon, you will see Jesus face-to-face (1 Corinthians 13:12). And your last breath here will be your first breath in heaven, where you will breathe God's perfect, rarified air forever.

"Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword" (Matthew 10:34). Martin Luther, a 16th century leader in the Protestant Reformation, had to take stands for Jesus that could have potentially cost him his life. His mantra was this: "Peace if possible. Truth at all costs." The apostle Paul said, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all" (Romans 12:18). However, your desire to have peace with people will sometimes be disrupted by your desire to have truth at all costs. You must continue to stand for truth, even if it brings a lack of peace. Or brings a sword. Jesus is the truth (John 14:6). And his truth sets us free (John 8:31). To some, the truth will be offensive. But it still must be preached. Lived by. At all costs. For without the truth no person or culture can remain healthy and whole. Always seek peace. But stand for truth at all costs.

"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed" (2 Peter 3:10). Through the years, I've invited people to put a tag on every possession they own that simply reads, "Gonna burn." The Bible is clear: one day everything is going to burn. We entered this world with nothing. We won't take anything of this world into heaven. Not one single possession. We enter this world naked and will leave this world naked (Job 1:21-22). Materials and possessions we consider valuable on earth, will be valueless in heaven. Gold, considered a precious metal on this earth, will be mere pavement on heaven's streets. Don't hoard possessions this side of eternity! They're ultimately worthless. Spend your time now developing your inner, eternal character. Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where neither thieves, rust, nor moths can get to them. Only our souls are eternal. That's what we should be building up and taking care of more than any other thing. Everything else is "gonna burn."

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30). Did you know the Bible says "fear not" more than any other phrase? Over 350 times! I think that's because all human beings have a propensity for fear and anxiety. We tend to look at the size of our circumstances, and allow fear to consume us. The only way to battle fear, biblically, is through faith. By trusting God. Surrendering all to him. Knowing his character - that he is good and his mercies endure forever. Putting it all in his hands. Because here's what I've learned. When you have faith, blessings follow. When you have fear, burdens scamper after you. If you think you were meant to carry the weight of this fallen world, you are sorely mistaken! Give all your concerns and fears to God! Ask him to carry them. He will. He wants to. It's God's job to deal with fears. It really is that simple. It's your job to give them to him. He will carry them. You won't have to. God carries all of our burdens. Every. Single. One. On his strong, eternal, celestial shoulders.

Name change. It happens after a significant event has occurred in a person's life. A woman's name changes after she becomes a wife. A child's name changes after being adopted by new parents. Did you know name change is a constant theme in the Bible as well? Abram to Abraham. Sarai to Sarah. Jacob (trickster) to Israel (strength of the Lord). Simon (wishy-washy) to Peter (the Rock). Saul to Paul. Jesus never looks at who you are but who you can become. He sees the before, but he blesses the after. Isn't that great news? Jesus can and will take your brokenness and turn it into blessedness. And one day everyone will be given a totally new name in heaven (Revelation 2:17). It will be a name that no one else has. Given uniquely to us by our eternal Father. It'll be beautiful. Melodic. Perfectly for us. What a glorious day that will be!

"See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled" (Hebrews 12:15). Bitterness destroys. It corrodes our heart. And hurts those around us. When you get hurt, don't get bitter, get better. You do have a choice. Choose to get better. To learn from the pain. How? Consider if you contributed to a hurtful situation in some way. Try to walk in the shoes of the one who hurt you. Thoughtfully mull over what you can learn from what happened. And always fill your heart with God's healing grace, forgiveness, kindness, and compassion. When you do so, you will become a better person. One filled with grace, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness yourself - yes, even toward those who hurt you. Don't get bitter. Get better. You become more like Jesus when you do.

"Your Jesus is just a crutch." It's an often-spoken phrase of ridicule toward followers of Jesus. Has it ever been said to you? If so, how should you respond to someone who views Jesus this way Here is what I say: "Yep, you're right. I am weak. Broken. Walk through life with a limp. And Jesus holds and supports me. Every moment of every day. He gives me the strength to take the next step. And the next one. Throughout all my life." Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebecca, wrestled with God throughout the night. He wanted a blessing from God, and wouldn't let go until he received that blessing. In the morning, God did give him a blessing. But he also touched Jacob's hip, causing him to walk with a limp for the rest of his life (Genesis 32:22-32). From that moment forward, Jacob became crippled. And God became his crutch. With each step, for the rest of his life, Jacob realized that God was enough. His sufficiency - no matter what he would face. And as a result, Jesus would later refer to his Father as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob! The apostle Paul reached the same conclusion. "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me" (2 Corinthians 12:9). Jesus is indeed our crutch. Thank God he is!

Alliteration produces soothing sounds, and is a common feature in poetry. Alliterative words are linked together thematically, spotlighting the subject they're describing; it's why they serve as great ways to remember something. Writers love alliterations. Maybe God does too? Memorize these alliterations describing God and recite them to yourself as you go about your day. The Mercy of the Master The Kindness of the King The Grace of God The Sovereignty of the Savior Let this alliance of alliterations about the Hero of Heaven be yours today and forever! It's when you know God's true character that your faith grows. And without faith, it's impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).

"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil" (Matthew 6:13). When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, temptation was something he specifically prayed against: "Lead us not into temptation." Jesus knew every human being would face temptation. So if temptation is a certainty, what are we to do when tempted? Flee! Immediately run in the opposite direction. And here's the key: Don't leave a forwarding address! Leave the temptation behind. Forever. Not to be confronted again. God promises us that when we are tempted, he will provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13). When temptation finds you, follow God's way out. Flee temptation and don't give it a forwarding address!

"But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:44-45). This is not a suggestion from Jesus. It's a command. It's not optional. Why does Jesus want his followers to live this way? The reason is simple. When you're on your knees praying for people, it's impossible to simultaneously hold hatred in your heart for them. That's why Jesus told us to pray for our enemies. Note what Jesus didn't say to do: Retaliate. Hate. Avenge. When we pray for our enemies - through the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit - we're able to overcome evil with good. Feel gracious toward them even if they don't deserve it. It's what Jesus did on the cross. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). The Savior of the world prayed for his enemies and persecutors. Until his last breath. Instead of hating those who've hurt you, pray for them. You're never more like Jesus when you do.

Jesus. What a beautiful name it is. Jesus is easy to love! He was perfect in every way. The One who first loved us (1 John 4:10). Who died on the cross to forgive our sins. And give us an unimaginable gift – eternal life. Knowing this truth makes it easy to love Jesus. But Christ followers are also called to love sinners. Which we all are. It's why the true test of Christianity is not just loving someone as easy to love as Jesus. But loving someone hard to love, a sinner like Judas. Jesus loved Judas until the last moment, even kissing him when arrested. Think of the people in your life akin to Judas. Those who betrayed you. Hurt you deeply. Abandoned you when you needed them the most. Forgiveness may be one of the most difficult commands to follow, but it's what God tells us we must do. "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32). Forgiving others, especially our enemies, is the true acid test of following Jesus. Not just loving Jesus, but the Judases in our lives as well. How are you doing with this test today?

Don't protect what God is trying to direct. We all have something we finally possess after a long time of waiting. A special something from God. But sometimes God asks us to let go of the exact thing we are holding on to. In our white knuckled, tightly gripped fists. Why would God do that? So that he can direct us to a new future. Hope. Something even better that he wants us to have. Think about Abraham's life. He asked God if Ishmael could be the son of promise. But God said no. Which led Abraham had to "cast out" Ishmael and not protect him (Genesis 21). God then directed Abraham down a different path. One that required him to let go. Trust. Persevere in faith. It was Isaac, born in Genesis 22, where God would direct his promises. And through Isaac's lineage, the Savior of the world would be born. But there was always only One through whom God would fulfill all of his promises - Jesus. The greatest gift ever!

"Abraham did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah's womb. No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised" (Romans 4:19-21). Too often we define and believe in God's promises depending on how we feel. Or, on what's going on around us, our circumstances. When we do so, danger lurks ahead. Why? Because the two greatest faith killers are feelings and circumstances. If we feel badly, our faith falters. If our circumstances are poor, our faith lessens. We should look to Abraham's faith as an example for us all. God promised Abraham that he would give him a son. Abraham had to wait 25 years, but he remained in faith until God fulfilled his promise. Yet despite his feelings and circumstances, Abraham's faith grew strong. And never abated. Abraham didn't look at the age of his or Sarah's body. Or his feelings. Instead, he believed God's promise no matter what - the sign of a true and living faith. Let's follow the example of Abraham, the Father of All Nations. No matter our feelings or circumstances, let our faith grow strong.

"Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm" (Proverbs 13:20). "Social capital" is a term used today to describe the value of social networks. It's becoming increasingly important as people realize that when you surround yourself with wise people, they point you in the direction of success. It's why the saying is true: Show me your friends and I'll show you your future! Most parents say to their children, "Choose your friends wisely." This tried-and-true instruction is biblically rooted. "Bad company ruins good morals" (1 Corinthians 15:33). Yes, as Christians we are called to be salt and light to the world (Matthew 5:13-16). But we are also cautioned to be careful in our friendships and business relationships. Why? Because if you spend a lot of time with immoral people, you may find yourself becoming more comfortable with their godless ideas and habits. But when you surround yourself with wise people who possess good and Godly morals, you'll most likely find yourself walking down the path of prosperity and success. Show me your friends and I'll show you your future. It's wisdom for the ages.

Some people believe they don't do a good job communicating with others. So, they don't even try to do so. But actually, we are communicating - intentionally or not - all the time. With our eyes. Glances. Posture. Body language. My college basketball coach would regularly chide players for slumping their shoulders. Holding their heads low in defeat. With forlorn expressions. Coach would tell us we were communicating to the other team – and each other - that we were playing poorly. Expecting to lose. Accepting defeat before it happened. Instead, we are to communicate confidence! In all aspects of our lives. Especially as Christ followers. Christians are more than conquerors through Jesus who loves us (Romans 8:37). Jesus who lives in us is greater than he who lives in the world (1 John 4:4). No weapon formed against us will prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Is this you? Communicating confidence in Jesus no matter what your circumstances may be? Claim as your own these biblical promises over your life each and every day. Communicate confidence in your convictions. Say so in every way. Especially with your body language. For you are communicating all the time, whether you realize it or not.

"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12). The fifth commandment calls children to honor their father and mother. Interestingly, it's the only one of the 10 commandments that has a promise to children: that all will go well with them in the land. But the fifth commandment has implications for parents as well. God gave parents authority over their children. For discipline, training, and instruction in God's commands (Ephesians 6:4). Parents are called to be the adults in the room. Meaning, children need parents who enforce God's commands. Uphold biblical guardrails. Oversee the happenings in their children's lives. Parents, you are not called to be your kids' best friend. That should happen after they've grown up and become adults themselves. But as you are raising them, you are the adult in the room. The authority. The parent. Love your kids. Oversee them well. Discipline when necessary. But always be the adult in the room. And as your kids learn to honor you, remind them that God has a planned blessing for them!

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you" (James 4:10). Humility is elusive; once you think you have it, you don't. Consider this illustration: A man was awarded a pin by his coworkers for his humility. He was so honored by this recognition that he decided to wear it on his jacket. First for a few days, that eventually turned into weeks. Guess what? He was no longer humble! Authentic humility isn't thinking less of yourself. It's thinking of yourself less. It's achieved when our minds and lives become preoccupied with Jesus. His ways. His wants. Choose humility. It is a choice. When you do so, the Lord will lift you up. And be careful if you think you have it. You probably don't.