Do right!

For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men. Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God. Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king. (1 Peter 2:15-17 NASB)

Doing what is right, it's not popular now days. It is tough even to decide what is right and wrong, isn't it? 

Really it's pretty easy if you rely on the guidance  of the Holy Spirit. When you establish an active relationship with the Spirit of God, listen to the call, and act accordingly, you will do right. If you ever get confused? Follow this: Honor all people, love your Christian brothers and sisters, fear God, and honor the king! How many of us can say we follow this. Do you bash your president, talk about your enemies, or disrespect certain groups of people? Follow these verses and all will be blessed.

The fire!

He said, "Look! I see four men loosed and walking about in the midst of the fire without harm, and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods!" (Daniel 3:25 NASB)

Long before Jesus came to Earth in human flesh, he was at work. Jesus was with Shafrack, Meshack, and Abednego in their time of greatest need. They would surely die without his hand. Jesus is with us when we need him the most. 

I can certainly witness to this. I'm not anyone special. I have never been persecuted like these three men. As a matter of fact, I'm embarrassed how blessed I am. How "easy" and unchallenged my life has been! I have had my share of life challenges, but nothing like these three famous men. But, God is still with me. God does not wait for the worst. He doesn't wait for the unbearable fiery furnace. He is with us before we really know we need him. I am thankful that Jesus was sent to die for me, even before I knew who he was. 

We are all in the same boat. God has a plan for us and Jesus is there for the whole thing to unfold. Praise God!

Bold and Agressive!

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58 NASB)

It's not always easy to follow Christ. But, what a rewarding life. Today, I had an amazing experience. I got a call from a lady in Wisconsin. Her mom and dad ran into a Cma husband and wife who prayed with them in the middle of a McDonalds. That is so exciting. We're called to witness everywhere. Yet, many times we are busy JUST building relationships. Relationships are so important, but they need to lead to prayer and salvation. The cause of Christ is urgent. We are in the last days and all need to know him. We need to be bold, open, and always looking for opportunities to share his love.

I'm on vacation but since I got that call, I'm going to be even more diligent in sharing over the next 4 weeks. 

Lord, give me boldness and opportunity to share your love with those who need it!

Summer Begins! (ok, not until Friday at 3:05!)

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 NASB)

The school, year ends tomorrow and summer begins. Although summer time is a time to relax, unwind and reset for the next school year, I most look forward to my EXTRA time with God. I'm not under the pressure of planning lessons or grading, or extracurricular activities. I can concentrate on God and glorifying him. I really should do this more in the heat of the moment.  This summer and even my leisure time and vacation is dedicated to praising God for his amazing blessings. I will talk more with him and listen even more than that. All that I do is for you. Very word I speak, every breath I take will be for you and in your service! 

I will not be defeated!

But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king's choice food or with the wine which he drank; so he sought permission from the commander of the officials that he might not defile himself. (Daniel 1:8 NASB)

When I make up my mind to do something it usually takes a team of wild horses to keep me from doing it. 

I'm putting a trailer hitch on my new motorcycle. The company that made the hitch needs to go back to school for English. The directions are written in some foreign language. It looks like English but none of it makes since. Yet, I am not easily defeated. After 5hours, I'm not done, but I have figured it out. I have a few thing to purchase but I should be done early tomorrow night. I will NOT be defeated. 

I wish I was better at fighting sin in my life. I need to be more like Daniel. I need to be bold and strong. He stood strong even unto sure death because he would not defile himself against God. 

Take a stand. Draw a line in the sand. I will not be defeated. By studying his word, praying, and worship, I am becoming better every day. Praise God!