Devotion Archive Aug. - Dec. 2006
Over the past few days Kim, the kids, and I have been traveling to visit family and celebrate Christmas with them. We load our Suburban almost as full as we can get it and hope that somehow we give away more goodies than we receive and have to bring home. For me, trips such as this are as important as oxygen, and I look forward to them all year long.
One evening after arriving at Mom and Dad’s home in Claremore, I found myself standing beside the Christmas tree looking at the decorations and ornaments (okay, maybe I was shaking a present or two also). Hanging on the tree were some of the old ornaments we had made growing up in Sunday School. I tried very hard to remember those occasions from my childhood, but over the years, many of the memories had somehow faded. The next day I was with my dad’s mother, and I asked her about her memories of Christmas as a child. She laughed and said that it was difficult to recall events that far back, but she did remember sneaking a peak at her Christmas doll on one occasion.
With the passing of time, some of life’s experiences slip from our memory. If we are not careful this can also be true regarding our walk with the Lord. Moses wanted to protect God’s people, and the generations to come, from forgetting the Lord, so he told them, “When your children ask you, 'What does this ceremony mean to you?' [you] tell them…” (Ex. 12:26-27). And later Moses said, “This observance [of Passover] will be for you…a reminder” (Ex. 13:9). Moses understood that people are prone to forget, but he also knew that it was very important to remember God and His activity throughout history. Therefore, following God’s direction, Moses gave the people a way to remember and to celebrate God, their Deliverer.
The world throws many messages at us everyday, and each one of them is competing for our attention, our experience, and ultimately our memories. Let me encourage you today to take some time to get alone with God and reflect on your walk with the Lord. Where were you before He saved You? How did your life change after your conversion? How has He blessed you in the good times and comforted you in the painful times? Psalm 103:2 says, “Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
Before Mom and Dad put the Christmas tree away this year, I’m going to ask them to help me remember some of the special times that each ornament represents. Before this day is over, let’s also spend time with our Heavenly Father remembering and thanking Him for His work in our lives.
Dale Talbert
Merry Christmas to you and your family. Thank you for all your blessings to me and my family this past year.
I have asked Charlotte Geno, our church receptionist and published poet, to write this week's devotional thoughts. You will be blessed by her giftedness in her writing.
Mike
HOLY HOLIDAYS
Holy days are coming. As Christians, this most special time of the year takes over our lives as we celebrate the birth of our Savior.
When do you begin your celebration? Mine starts sometime in November. I shop. I fret. I pace. I shop some more. Then I really begin to “celebrate”, decorating the house, yard and tree, wrapping the presents I’ve exhausted myself getting. Then, there’s cooking, cleaning and trying to make it to this party and that gathering. Does this have a familiar ring?
Every so often I see the stars at night or someone’s Nativity scene and I tell myself and the Lord, “Just a few more days and I’ll dwell on the real meaning of it all.” I’m always giving Jesus a fleeting thought and a promise to do better. You know, to stop and remember what He is all about.
And, you know what? He comes in all the love and beauty that He is. He whispers His love and gently touches my soul so that I can know Him.
He touches me and then I really celebrate! Do you want to celebrate the birth of the Savior?
Take a moment.
Let the Star of Bethlehem shine around you.
Be still
And know. Luke 2
HOLY DAYS
The holy days are coming
There’s so much I need to do.
Gifts to buy, a tree to trim,
Wrapping, bow tying too!
Gee, I am so busy
Burning candles at both ends.
Candy to make, parties each night,
And Christmas cards to send!
Holy days are coming.
Angels and wise men say,
“Glory to God in the highest!”
Please, get out of my way!
I’ll get holy soon, Lord.
As soon as my chores are done.
The kids will sing tonight at church.
And they have to have their fun.
A sugarplum and gumdrop
Grace the Christmas tree,
Along with untold goodies,
A feast for the eyes to see.
Somewhere in all the hub-bub
A holy day is near.
Am I ever glad, O Lord,
It comes just once a year.
I’ll get holy soon, Lord.
I promise you, I will.
Are you talking to me, Lord?
“Yes, my child be still.”
CHARLOTTE E. GENO
Be still, for the day is holy.
Nehemiah 8:11
The Candle of Hope on the Advent wreath won’t be lit for another week, but I am already thinking about hope. When I was a chaplain at Parkland Hospital in Dallas many years ago, my supervisor once chided me for a lack of “pastoral sensitivity” in a certain situation involving a patient’s family. He took me aside and gently encouraged me. “Your presence here should bring hope. Never forget you represent God’s presence in the hospital. With God there is always hope.”
The devotional thought in our new daily devotion guide, The Word for You Today on Thursday, December 14, is taken from the New Testament book of Hebrews. “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5). As a pastor, I have depended on that verse almost daily, but probably so have you. How could we face life’s difficulties without the Lord? Later, the writer refers to Deuteronomy 31:8. “The Lord, he it is that goes before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not.”
Perhaps the opposite of hope is not hopelessness, but fear.
Each year, as I think of the Christmas story in the Bible, I am reminded that every time the Lord (or his messengers) appeared to someone, his first words were “Do not be afraid.” God’s message is one of Hope, but first he has to calm our fears.
In Gregg Garrett’s book, Crossing Myself, he tells his story of a lifetime of deep depression and almost constant thoughts of suicide. With the help of a compassionate friend who happened to be a minister, Gregg began to have hope. His life changed little by little when he began to believe he “mattered.” Someone truly cared about him.
Perhaps the greatest reason to have hope is that you matter to God. And the most amazing part of this truth is that nothing will ever matter any more to God than you do right now. God cares about you.
Pastor Walton
Are you a weather junkie? I have a good friend who is absolutely addicted to the Weather Channel. Seriously, anytime she is home she has the tv on the Weather Channel. She doesn’t just pay attention to the local forecast, she want to know what the weather is like in obscure cities all across the globe. Mind you, she has no relatives in those places nor does she plan to visit; she just has to know what the weather is like…all the time!
I have trouble just knowing what the weather is like right outside my front door. It seems like lately every time I go outside the weather is different. One day I need short sleeves and by noon, a coat and gloves only begin to fight the cold, blowing wind. How about a little consistency here!
Regardless of the present weather conditions, one thing is certain in Texas: give it a minute and it will be different. Life is a lot like the weather. In fact, Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds that “there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” We are born, we grow, and we die. We hurt and we heal. We weep and we laugh. We mourn and we dance. Sometimes we speak and other times we merely listen.
My comfort lies in the fact that no matter the “season” of life, God is constant. He rejoices with us in good times and weeps with us during dark days; He carries us through the fire and skips with us through green meadows. So whether you are bundled up under a blanket in front of a blazing fire or soaking up rays on a warm beach, take heart: our God has a plan for every changing season of life. As for today, I recommend layers and an umbrella!
Brenda Shuttlesworth
Minister of Administration and Church Ministries
Are we prepared for rain?
I have been praying over the past month that the fields here at this church would be prepared for rain. I saw the movie "Facing the Giants" and in that movie I was reminded of the task that we have to live and give our lives in such a way that when God opens up the floodgates we're prepared to receive it and are not surprised by His movement in our lives. I believe that as I look back over the past year that Lisa and I have been here, we have seen some very tangible accounts where we have seen God move here at this church. But my job, as well as yours, is to be prepared for a flood - not just a little rain. So the questions that I have today are what is it going to take for God to flood this place? Are we ready for it? Do we have the life rafts in place?
As I've prayed I have constantly gone back to Noah. He didn't know rain but He knew God. He didn't know the proper design or way to build an ark but he knew how to gather material and listen to the architect. Genesis 6-8 is where we find the story of Noah, a righteous man who found favor in God’s eyes. Noah didn’t know exactly what he was doing but he had a relationship with God that was grounded by his faith in God. We know that Noah was mocked and persecuted by those around him but he continued to listen to God and complete the task God had set him out to do. I love how throughout this story God speaks and then it concludes each section with “Noah did everything just as God commanded him”. Read the story and see how Noah prepared for something he didn’t understand and then how God blessed him and his family.
I have started praying for rain so let’s get prepared. The way we can prepare is to set our personal eyes to the heavens, take His hand, and go buy rafts so that we can keep our arms outstretched towards Him. The only way God will open the heavens is if we, the ones who know God, have our hearts and minds turned toward Him. We pray for lost people and for our church to grow but why would God bless us with such an outpouring when we aren't ready to receive it? He can give us little glimpses (people coming to know him, or families joining the church, etc.) but until we thirst for more we will not see people reconcile broken relationships, or noticing God as more than just God, or families bringing families, or sons’ and daughters’ hearts turned back to their parents, or church being more than just a building.
We as a congregation can rock the very core of our community but we have to be prepared for a flood!!! Are you there yet? Am I there yet? Help me prepare. Start praying. Go buy rafts. I may go buy one and sit it up on the student floor and just not say anything. I may speak on it soon. I don't know what to do. I just want to see people walking around this church filled with passion, and a thirst that isn't fulfilled by water. We have so many lost individuals visit us or that we see daily but what’s our response? We also have many who are growing up to be good wholesome citizens just like the examples they have seen growing up in church, but they have no passion or knowledge of a living, breathing, personal God. I don’t believe that's good enough or what God truly desires. Where's the rain??? I challenge you to stop everything you are doing right now and pray for rain!!! See what God reveals to you. Lift up your hands and let God fill your heart so that it can’t help but pour over and into the lives who sit on the pew beside you. Let’s go swimming together!
by HIS grace,
Justin Holcomb
For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. I Timothy 4:4-5
This week is Thanksgiving. I always look forward to this festive occasion – an opportunity to see family and to relax for a few days before life gets very hectic for this Music Minister (I always hit the ground running with a week of intense concert preparation). I wish some of you would email me your family’s unusual thanksgiving meal traditions. Is there something that you eat that is not usually served at a traditional thanksgiving meal? Mine would probably have to be sauerkraut. We have all the usual thanksgiving staples: turkey, dressing, sweet potato casserole, and the one meal a year we get to enjoy black and green olives beforehand as an appetizer treat. Of course, the meal ends with both pumpkin (which I do not care for) and pecan pie (which I love!). Now, you may be asking why sauerkraut? On my mother’s side of the family, we have some German ancestry. Thus, sauerkraut made it onto the menu! We have kept the tradition alive. It actually breaks up all the rich food in a wonderful sort of way – maybe you should try it!
Marcia, Sarah, Julia and I will be spending this Thanksgiving in Dallas at my brother Mark’s home with him and his wife, my nieces, my parents from El Paso, and my aunt and uncle from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Since this is our year to spend Thanksgiving with my family, we will also wake up the next day and celebrate Christmas! I hear the tree will be decorated and all the shopping has been done. We will just barely end one day of traditions before heading into another the next morning. It doesn’t get any better than that! My favorite meal of the year followed by a morning of opening presents and watching children get so excited about what is under the tree! If we just realized, God has given us everyday like that - a wonderful day of feasting followed by a new day of hope and excitement. I hope you celebrate your holiday thanking Him for His wonderful blessings to us each and every day.
Tom Tillman
Associate Pastor, Music & Worship
Choices
Have you ever thought about how many choices you make in your lifetime? What about the number of choices you make in a day? In reading these words you have just exercised your ability to make a choice (I hope you feel it was a good choice). Day after day we are faced with a huge list of choices including a few of the following:
· Paper or plastic
· Window seat or aisle
· Regular or decaf
· Smoking or nonsmoking
· Mild or spicy
· Old Fashioned Glazed or Apple Fritter (woops, maybe that's just me)
· Sweet or unsweetened
In the Old Testament, following the death of Moses, Joshua became the leader of God’s chosen people. In Joshua 24:14-15 we read about a choice God was giving His people. God’s Word says, “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” God’s desire is to help us make the right choices. He tells us to “choose life” (Deut. 30:19). In reading John 14:6 we see that Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” God not only wants us to make the right choice, He also lets us know what the right choice is!
So today, amidst all of the numerous choices you will make (some will be easy, and some will be difficult; some will be simple, and some significant) let me encourage you today to choose wisely…
Jesus…yes or no
Dr. Dale W. Talbert
My son, Tyler, recently wrote this poem for his English class. Enjoy.
Bench Warmer
by Tyler Davis
Lonely on the bench I sit
Waiting to go up and get my first hit,
My waiting arm is now getting cold,
I hope I can play before I get old.
I’m not as tall or fast as them,
That doesn’t mean I’m not still a perfect ten.
My anxious bat leans on the fence,
But here on the bench this games not real intense.
Though life on the bench is always the same,
I sit here and watch THEM play the game.
I know that when it is all said and done,
I’ll hear from my Father, “Great job Son.”
Isn’t that what we all want to hear our Heavenly Father say? “Great job Son/Daughter.”
Sometimes in life we feel like we are not even in the game; we feel like a bench warmer. We might feel useless to God’s kingdom or to the church, but the truth is we all have a place of importance and God wants all of us to participate in the game. But what about the times when you feel like you just can’t get off the bench? That’s when our heavenly Father says, I love you and you are great because you are my Son/Daughter, not because of what we were able to do or not do but just because we are His children.
Thanksgiving is upon us and I think we can all be thankful that our God is a God that loves us and is proud of us just because we are His.
Thank you Father, for loving me even when I am sitting on the bench.
Mike
Several years ago in a counseling session, someone said to me, “You preachers are always saying God can use anyone, but I will bet after you hear my story you will change your mind.”
I listened to him carefully. In some ways he was right. He had been betrayed and deeply hurt by “good” people. He recounted a story of pain and rejection. Over the weeks, I prayed with him and gently guided his thoughts toward God’s word and Christ. We both agreed, finally, that perhaps God could use his experience, after all.
Max Lucado, in his book, When Christ Comes, tells the story of Julie Lindsey, a college student working part-time at a hotel just south of Montgomery, Alabama. Julie was a committed Christian, but the Lord allowed a tragedy to come to her life. She was abducted, robbed, and horribly assaulted by two men who left her handcuffed to a tree. It was two o’clock in the morning before she was found.
The experience traumatized Julie so badly that this once vibrant Christian young lady could no longer function. She dropped out of school and out of life. Julie was totally shattered.
But listen to her own words:
“After this experience, I spent a great deal of time thinking about God . . . I searched and I prayed for understanding. I longed to be healed. . . my spirit and faith were sorely tested; my spiritual journey in the months that followed was painful, but also wonderful.
“God allowed me to profit from an awful and devastating event. So many good things are in my life now. I have wonderful friends – most of whom I would never have met or known were it not for this experience. I have a job that allows me to work with and serve crime victims. I have a deeper relationship with God. I am spiritually wiser and more mature. I have been blessed beyond what I can tell in these pages, and I am very grateful. Romans 8:28 came alive in my life: ‘All things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to his purpose.’ Now I ask you, who won?” (pp 91-92).
Your life counts for Jesus Christ. Romans 8:28 is your verse, too. Claim God’s word and live for Him.
Pastor Walton
Cheese, Church, Change, and Choice
A Story of Survival
Once upon a time four furry mice, Sniff, Scurry, Hem, and Haw, scampered through an open door at First Baptist Church. Each mouse uniquely scoped out the circumstances of this huge edifice, determining his reaction to this new opportunity. Sniff, quick to “sniff out” new opportunities, made a bee-line for the kitchen. “Smells like cheese tonight, boys!” he hollered over his shoulder to his buddies. Scurry wasted no time bounding into action, passing Sniff on his way toward the glorious prospect of cheese. Now Hem always worries about the least little bump in the road. “We’ve never been in this church before. It’s huge! What if we get lost? Maybe we should go back outside.” he bemoaned the situation. Haw thought about staying back with Hem or even going back outside, but the weather was cold and wet. So Haw decided that venturing into this big new church could lead to something better. It had been a long time since any of them had smelled cheese like this!
So what do you think happened to our four furry friends? Do you think Sniff successfully sniffed out cheese in the kitchen? What about Scurry: did he slow down long enough to enjoy the yummy cheese awaiting him or did he get snapped in a trap? Poor Hem, did he ever get over his paralyzing fear of the unknown? And dear Haw, he got it: it may be scary in here, but it’s dry, warm, and I smell cheese!
What about you? When you face change do you worry and fret like Hem, or do you anticipate change and sniff it out like our little friend Sniff? You may identify more with Scurry as he whizzes past everyone in search of that aromatic cheese. Then we have Haw who at first worries about the prospect of change, but ultimately chooses to go ahead and check out the place. What does he find? An unexpected blessing: new cheese! Change can lead to something better!
We can be sure of one thing in this world: change happens. We can anticipate it and even monitor it, but change will happen. Ideally, we adapt to change quickly and enjoy the new opportunity. But the reality is that most often we dig our heels in, twist our tails up in a knot, and refuse to change. How silly! Regardless of our reaction, change will happen. Our choice lies in how we respond.
If you seek consistency in life, here’s strength for the day: “I the LORD do not change.” Malachi 3:6. Did you really read those words: I the LORD do not change! God is so good and He is so reliable. No matter the circumstances of this crazy mixed-up world, we never have to fear being lost in its maze. My comfort rests in the truth that my God does not change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hallelujah!
Brenda Shuttlesworth
Characters and concepts courtesy of Spencer Johnson, M.D., Who Moved My Cheese
I’ve been thinking about life experiences. Some are mountaintop experiences where I’ve stood in joy and strength on the solid rock of the summit. Others are very low experiences where I’ve sunk to rock bottom.
But here’s a bit of truth that is truly a beautiful thing: whether we are standing high on the rocks of the mountain or low on rock bottom, the Rock is still there. Do you get it? The Rock. Jesus. He’s there for our joys and he’s there for our sorrows. He’s a solid friend who is just as present in sorrow as he is in celebration.
Rock Bottom
I don’t know about you, but I know what it is to hit rock bottom. There’s something very reassuring about knowing that you’ve hit rock bottom and re-surfaced. Some people don’t re-surface though, and I believe that’s because their feet have never actually touched the Rock at the bottom. We can be sinking and sinking, but if our feet eventually make contact with the Rock at the bottom, we can then use that Rock as a springboard to push our way back up.
The Bible says that Jesus is the Rock of our Salvation. He’s strong and solid and dependable. If today is a mountaintop day, plant your feet on the Rock and rejoice! If today is a rock bottom day, keep praying and seeking the Lord and your feet will settle on the Rock that will spring you back to the surface.
“Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation” (Psalm 95:1).
Justin Holcomb
Turn to the Psalms!
It’s probably no secret that as a Pastor of Worship and Music my favorite book in the Bible is Psalms. Besides all the references of singing to our Lord, it is so rich in wisdom for handling all of life’s bumps and arrows that seem to come our way. Here are some of my favorites: Psalm 149 – Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints. Psalm 148 – Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise him in the heights above. Psalm 147 – Praise the Lord! How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him! Psalm 145 – EVERY day I will praise you and extol your name FOREVER. (We should note that the psalmist does not tell us we should praise Him when we feel like it or when it is convenient or lets us off the hook when we are having a bad day!) The psalmist had bad days, too – look how he handled them: Psalm 140 – Rescue me, O Lord, from evil men; protect me from men of violence, those who devise evil plans in their hearts and stir up war every day. Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked – those who have set traps for me along my path. Psalm 69 – Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in the miry depths, where there is no foothold. I have come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me. I am worn out calling for help; my throat is parched. Psalm 13 – (Perhaps at one of his darkest hours) – How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? Look on me and answer, O Lord my God. (2 verses later) But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will SING to the Lord for he has been good to me!
WHY should we even go on when feeling like this? Psalm 62 – My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Psalm 89 – I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever;, with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations! May God’s Word encourage you in your walk with Him today!
Tom Tillman
Associate Pastor, Music & Worship
Lessons from the Trail
Recently my wife, Kim, and I returned from Glen Eyrie Conference Center in Colorado Springs. We had a wonderful time taking part in a church retreat with several other members of First Baptist Conroe. The fellowship (and the food) is always something to look forward to. The snow on the tops of the mountains, the cooler weather, and the time to get away from the daily routine and hear from God made this a wonderful experience for all.
One thing I like to do each year is to take a group hiking up to a beautiful waterfall. The 2-mile hike up the canyon is moderately difficult, but the beauty and the camaraderie is well worth the effort for everyone that makes the journey. This year, I was able to partner up with a few adventurous souls that wanted to hike up and over to see what was behind the waterfalls. As we set out for this new area I began to discover a few truths related to hiking that also apply to the Christian life.
Each step is important.
As I mentioned, a few members of our group, and I, decided to climb even higher and further back into the canyon. Doing this meant steeper slopes, greater heights, and much more challenging terrain. Each person had to be very intentional about foot placement since much of the trail (at least I’m referring to it as a trail) was covered with loose and shifting rock. On more than one occasion each of us found ourselves slipping, sliding, and sitting when just moments earlier we were standing.
I am so thankful that, with Jesus, we have an expert guide that cares for us, protects us, and directs us about where to place our feet in life. God’s Word says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:6). Today, have you acknowledged God? Speak with Him about the trails, canyons, and cliffs before you and see where He leads you.
Don’t go alone.
I am so thankful that no one from our group has ever been seriously injured while we were hiking. We have had a few bumps, bruises, and scrapes, but we have always been there for each other to lend a helping hand that gets us back on the trail.
One of my favorite passages is Mark 3:14. The Bible says, “[Jesus] appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach.” Before Jesus ever sent these disciples out to preach, He was simply “with them.” And by being with them, Jesus was able to demonstrate Kingdom living, delegate ministry, supervise their development, and encourage them through the difficulties they faced. Then in Mark 6:7 we read that Jesus called the twelve to Him and, “sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits.” Once again, Jesus reveals the importance of associating with brothers and sisters in Christ. So whether you are hiking or living the Christian life, take someone with you. You, and they, will need the support.
Something even greater is ahead of us.
With each step (and sometimes each crawling motion) I anticipated what might be ahead for us to see. Our little group ventured on for another half mile until we realized the path we selected ended at the top of a tall ridge. As we approached the edge, I must admit that everything started spinning for a moment. It was both a little scary and very exciting. What a beautiful view we had to enjoy. We sat there trying in some way to take in all of the splendor that was spread out before us. It is difficult to describe how you feel in those moments. Peering over the edge we could see two other hikers descending another path. We yelled out to them asking, “What’s up ahead?” They informed us there were more waterfalls. We discussed going further; however, from this point the only trail option for us was to backtrack.
Jesus has been to a place that is greater than this earth, and He has shared with us just a little of the awesome experience that lies ahead for His followers. Jesus said, “In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am” (John 14:2-3). God’s Word also says, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Cor. 2:9). What we experienced high above that Colorado canyon was truly a breathtaking and awesome sight, but nothing on earth can compare to that which our loving God has created for us.
I hope you can join us for our next church retreat to Colorado. If you do I will be more than happy to hike through the canyon with you. But until then keep in mind that God has a wonderful path for each day He gives you, so choose your steps wisely, take someone with you, and prepare for what lies ahead.
Dr. Dale W. Talbert
Associate Pastor, Christian Education
Have you ever wondered what makes us decide the “important” things in life?
Like who wins a ballgame (go ‘Stros), what color should the carpet be, this dress or this shirt, where we should eat or even how we should eat. What makes those things more or less important than other things in our lives? Are they important because someone else says they are? Are they important because that’s all we care about at the time? Are they important because everything we do and decide is important?
What makes your way, your style, your tastes, and your team more important and more right than my way, my style, my tastes, and my team? Do you ever ask the question, “Does it really matter?”
I am sitting here wondering if the Astros are going to make the great comeback and get into the playoffs. By the time you read this, we will know the answer. I tend to get quite excited when “my team” wins and quite disappointed when they lose. But why? Does it really matter? Why is it so important? If my team loses then someone else’s team wins. Is that bad or wrong?
Perspective you say. Mike, it is all a matter of perspective. Priority you say. Mike, it is all a matter of priority. But why does our perspective seem to change all the time and why do we think everyone else should have the same perspective?
Could it be because we lose our ultimate perspective/priority in the middle of “doing life” and get caught up in the things of life that really aren’t important? Is that what happens when we begin to look at everything we do through ourselves instead of through Christ? When we set our hearts and minds on our desires instead of Christ’s we get non important things in front of important things.
Colossians 3:1-3
1Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
So, what are the important things in your life today? Would Christ agree?
Mike Davis
Is Your Life Managed or Mismanaged?
Each year for the past many years in ministry, I have reminded my church members to beware the “mismanaged” life. My experience as a pastor, counselor, and friend causes me to believe that most of us do a poor job of life management.
For one thing, we mismanage the pace of our lives. We are not merely in a hurry. We operate in “warp drive.” Years ago, one fellow in the community confided in me that he was getting his third divorce. When I asked him why he had trouble in marriage, he said, “I have truly loved all my wives, but I haven’t had time for any of them.” Time is perhaps the greatest expression of human love, but we give so little of our time to those we profess to love.
I used to tell the story of the man who rushed into the jewelry store. “I’ll buy anything you can wrap in 60 seconds,” he exclaimed. When the clerk asked what the hurry was, he yelled, “I forgot that today is our anniversary and my wife thinks I am putting out the trash.” I don’t tell that story much any more. It is too true to be funny.
What are the characteristics of a life that is lived fast and shallow?
1. You do not know your family; you only think you know them. From their perspective, you are a stranger.
2. You regularly “look the other way” when it comes to disciplining your children or dealing with family matters. You don’t have time.
3. Your friendships are shallow and empty, yet your heart yearns for a real friend.
4. You can neither mourn nor celebrate. Inside you feel numb, but you don’t know why.
5. Your prayers have been reduced to intermittent cries for help. You no longer have a relationship with God. You try to hide this fact from others.
6. Your “worship” is to thank God for getting you out of trouble.
7. You are in denial and think that your life will improve next week, next month, or next year.
8. You get angry when anyone says anything to you about what you have become.
If the pace of your life is out of control, let me remind you of something. You are the one driving, and every car must stop to refill its tank. You may think you are going somewhere, but nobody goes very far on empty.
Listen to the words of Jesus. “Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me: for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
Pastor Walton
Life is Like a Box of Chocolates
Have you seen the movie, Forest Gump? I love this nostalgic look at Americana. As the movie begins, Forest sits straight as an arrow at the bus stop: short buzzed hair, plaid shirt buttoned to the neck, tan suit, white socks, and those dirty white Nike’s with a red swoosh. As Forest waits, he shares his life and philosophy with folks who come and go from this Savannah bus stop. Forest always quotes the important people in his life, primarily his momma.
As he opens a box of chocolates, destined for his beloved Jenny, he tears off the ribbon, opens the box, picks a piece of candy, and bites into the chewy delicacy. At this point, he utters those famous words, “Momma always said, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates…you never know what you’re gonna get.’” Not bad for a simple man from Greenbow, Alabama!
Life is like a box of chocolates. You bite into a bonbon and savor nuts, creams, fruit, nougat, or even caramel. But, you never know what you are going to get. All the confections in a box of chocolates are not the same. This makes me think about Christians and how we are not all the same. People are different and experience different life circumstances; yet, as Christians we are called to a life of unity in the faith. Ephesians 4:1 says, “…live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”
Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus reminding them that in Christ, we are all one. Jesus covers us all with His love, thus making us one in Christ. He asks that we live a life worthy of the plan God has for us. Our course of action is to live in harmony with our calling as believers in Jesus Christ. Through our lives, we have an opportunity to show others that we are different because of Jesus Christ, that we are here to serve God and our fellow man, and that we are children of the One True God.
Each believer is different and has been blessed with divergent gifts. Our diversity unites us in Christ. So, I think I agree with Momma Gump: life is like a box of chocolates…you never know what you’re gonna get! Nuts, creams, fruit, nougat, and caramel are all covered in rich delicious chocolate – different, yet the same. We can do one of two things: focus on our differences and be divided or embrace our diversity and be united. I like the fact that even though we are each different, we are covered in the love of Jesus, thus making us one in Christ. That’s my kind of chocolate!
Brenda Shuttlesworth
The Crocodile Hunter, and Passion
I don't know about you but when I think of the late crocodile hunter, Steve Irwin, I think of a crazy guy who trapped me into watching his show because of how nuts and yet passionate he was. He genuinely was excited about a snake, spider, crocodile, or any other animal. The reason I’m bringing him up is because I have recently been thinking of my life and my legacy. I want that kind of passion.
As the band played on Wednesday night, I sat behind the students and began to ask myself why people would want to be a part of our church, and especially the student ministry. I was struck by the thought that it isn't me, it isn't the band, it isn't food, it isn't games, it isn't even friends, but instead its the passion we have for our Savior. Sure we can try and draw people in by doing things, but I want to say that if each of us would begin understanding our role in the church isn’t just to be present on Sundays but instead we are to live passionate lives, others would want to be around us. I believe that if we become so passionate about our walk and relationship with God, not just how we look or act then we will become contagious and others will be drawn to Christ through us.
The thought that I have for us this week is for each of us to evaluate our lives and ask the question; what kind of passion do I have. Am I contagious? I don’t know The Crocodile Hunter personally and I doubt many of you do either, but I know that I was one of the thousands who watched his show and was educated on different animals by him. I saw him do things that made me question his sanity but never his enthusiasm and passion. He had a passion that I want.
I want my tombstone one day to read “A Man Who Was In Love With Christ”. I know that I am a Christian, but I want to be a passionate leader and follower of my Savior. I want to be so in love with God that I can't stand being apart from Him. That I don't want to do anything else but sing His praises. I want others to be drawn to Christ because of the passion they see in me.
How about you? The reason I am bringing this up is because I believe God has called each of us to be alive in Him and I can’t even imagine the impact we could have on our community if this church became known as a place filled with people who are IN LOVE WITH GOD.
Check out the story of a very passionate man. In Acts 17:22-34 we see Paul stand and deliver a message filled with passion and we see people respond. I want to be bold and passionate so others can come to know my Savior. Will you join me?
Justin Holcomb
With school just recently started, the Tillman household was abuzz with gathering school supplies, figuring outfits to wear, buying new backpacks and lunch boxes (Julia actually has what I would describe as a lunch purse – very trendy I understand), and generally getting very excited about the prospects that a new year will bring. I don’t ever remember such anticipation, angst and excitement of a new school year as this one! Maybe it’s because Sarah is now on the drill team and many of her days are already planned, and she must now look and act a certain way that is in keeping with her organization. Or maybe it’s because Julia is almost top gun at her school (one more grade to go!). I don’t know, but this year it sure seemed like there was much more effort at being ready than ever before. What about you? No, I’m not asking if you are ready for school! But are you prepared for life’s trials? As soon as we register our children for school, they give us a list of school supplies that we need to buy. As soon as we become children of God, we are given a list as well – God’s Word which prepares us for everything we can possibly face in this life. Ephesians 6:13 says, Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. If we truly get ready like that, then God will bless us beyond measure!
Well, Sarah and Julia just got home from school. They sure do look cute in their new school clothes. I think I better go take a picture!
Tom Tillman
Associate Pastor, Music & Worship
As a small boy growing up in Claremore, Oklahoma, my home was near the high school campus and football stadium. I can remember several Friday nights, walking over to Lantow Field with my dad and other family and friends. Dad would carry our seat cushions, a thermos of coffee Mom had prepared for him, and occasionally a couple of towels and so forth to donate to the football program. We were on our way to root for the Mighty Zebras. Okay, okay. Maybe a zebra doesn’t strike fear in you, but what if I told you that our zebra mascot was red and white? That’s even worse you say? Well, getting back to my story - as soon as we stepped outside of our home we were able to see the lights and hear the marching band playing our fight song. (I especially enjoyed the drums.) Friday nights were always such an exciting time.
Some thirty years later, here I am in Conroe, Texas with my wife and our little ones, and I have discovered that football is alive and well in Montgomery County. We recently registered our son, Brayden, for the football league offered through the YMCA. Brayden is so excited. His team has not practiced yet, but his football equipment gets a workout almost every night before he goes to bed.
Brayden is one of the biggest boys in his age grouping. For this reason, he will probably end up playing on the line and not be in a ball carrying position. He’s okay with this and says he just wants to play. Brayden’s enthusiasm and team spirit has reminded me that, in the church, not all of us are called to stand up on Sunday mornings and teach or preach, but all believers are able to play the position, in the game of life, that God has assigned.
God’s Word says, “each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that” (1 Cor. 7:7). And in 1 Peter 4:10 we read, “each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” The Bible makes it very clear that EACH follower of Christ has received some special ability (gift) from God, and it must be used as God has designed…in serving others. Okay, so maybe you don’t feel “called” by God to change diapers in the preschool building, but can you greet and open the door for young parents as they walk into the building? And maybe the thought of teaching Bible study is not a pleasant one for you, but can you hammer a nail or sweep the floor at a homesite our church family is constructing? What may seem to be terrifying or tedious work for one believer may energize and excite another.
Brayden and I are just about ready to leave for a football clinic he is taking part in this evening. He will get to put on his pads, helmet, and cleats, run out on the field, and bang some heads for a little while. Through this process the coaches and Brayden will discover where he is best suited to play. Let me encourage you to get out on the ministry field and discover your place of service. Sure it might feel like you get a few bumps and bruises now and then, but you can be assured that your Head Coach (God) has wonderfully equipped you for the position that is best for you and your entire team (the church).
Dr. Dale W. Talbert
Associate Pastor, Christian Education
Right now Linda and I are preparing to load Brooke’s (our daughter) car full of all the essentials and non-essentials for college. When you read this we will have driven the 850 miles one-way to the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Yes, I know, it’s my fault she is going so far away. See what brain washing will do. Anyway, I am sure she will have a great time in Lincoln and meeting new friends. Yes, all new friends, as she will be with 25,000 other students without knowing any of them right now. Kind of scary for many of us. Kind of scary for her parents as well.
So how do I think she will handle all the new transitions in her life? Just fine. Yep, just fine. How do I know that? Because she knows her Father loves her. Sure Linda and I love her, but I’m talking about her heavenly Father. You know, the one that is love (I John 4:16). So how does the fact that God is love give me the assurance that Brooke will be fine so far away from us?
This is how: recently a younger high school friend of hers gave her life to Christ and became a Christ follower. Brooke had played softball with her and had invited her to 4twelve on Wednesday evenings. The young lady began to meet new friends and through the messages on Wednesday and Sunday services she began to seek after the truth of knowing Jesus as her King. So Brooke’s friend asked to visit with me and one recent Sunday morning she prayed to receive Jesus in her life. Brooke was out of town and when she returned she immediately wanted to get her new Christian friend a bible and a devotion book. Brooke had written a word of encouragement in the front of the bible and Brooke reminded her friend that even though they will be far apart she could always contact her. But even more importantly she wrote that God is always there for her.
That’s what I Corinthians 13:7 says. “Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” God is love – and my daughter believes that, for herself and for others. I hope you do as well.\
Please hand me another tissue – I just said goodbye for the 47th time.
Mike
Seeking His Face
A while back I had a friend make a comment to me that has recently resonated in my mind. He said, “ Instead of seeking God’s face, I’ve been seeking God’s gifts. Too many times I have been more excited about what He does for me than I’ve been about seeking His face and rejoicing in who He is.” He went on to say that he craved the blessings and wonderful things God did in his life. Sound familiar? I know that I often catch myself doing so many things that I throw up a flippant prayer in passing and expect God ‘s blessings. That must break my Lords heart.
I don’t think my friend and I are the only ones who struggle with this concept though. If you have a relationship and walk with Christ then Satan is going to do anything he can to keep you from praising our Father. To me that mean’s he is going to get me so busy that I forget to have my sit down conversation with my Lord.
How about you? Are you seeking God’s face rather than just His blessings? Is Satan keeping you so busy that you can’t focus on your time with the Lord? If so then lets remember this week to take a walk with God. Lets expect Him to do great things, but lets seek who He is instead of what He has to give. Our heavenly Father delights in giving His children good things – but we need to seek after Him first.
Justin Holcomb
How Often do you Think of God's Love?
In Jan Winebrenner’s book, The Grace of Catastrophe, he tells the story of a brilliant young man, Sam, he once met in a bookstore. He and Sam struck up a conversation about the Christian life. Sam’s biggest question was “Why?”
Jan tells the story like this:
“You’re always talking about Jesus, making a decision for Christ. Why? Why would anyone want to know Jesus? And don’t tell me it’s to escape hell, because what if I don’t believe in hell?”
Sam kept talking “Last time I checked, belief in hell wasn’t a ‘deal breaker’ with God. You don’t have to believe in hell to be a Christian, at least not according to your creed. All you have to do is believe in Jesus and accept Him as your Savior, right? So if I’m not worried about hell, what’s the benefit of knowing and trusting Christ?”
Sam continued, “And don’t tell me it’s because Christians enjoy a better life with Christ because I know too many Christians who suffer through terrible illnesses and tragedies – huge messes, really – and then die. So if I’m not worrying about hell right now, what does Jesus bring to the table?”
Jan writes, “I didn’t know what to say to Sam. I left (him) feeling frustrated and confused. I grew to dread seeing his motorcycle parked at my favorite neighborhood bookstore. Today, I’d shout with joy if I saw Sam’s bike. Because, today, I know the answer to his question. Jesus brings Jesus to the table!”
God’s nature is love. Humans can misunderstand God’s love. We can misjudge God’s love. We can misuse God’s love. We can malign God’s love. But we can never escape God’s love.
“We cannot change the fact that God loves us – that it is impossible for Him to not love us,” writes the author.
What do Christians get with Jesus?
We get LOVED, that’s what. We get the full assurance of holy God that we are cherished, adored children destined for a future none of us can even imagine.
Pastor Walton
