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INNER ~ VIEWS        #011    Rick Warren Interviews Bill Bright
 

ARCHIVES ~ Aug 2003

--->NPPNote: The following interview took place before the home-going of Bill Bright.  God will continue to speak to us through His dedicated servant long after he has passed from the scene. His insight on the strategic role of prayer is a potent reminder to all of us; Pastors, City Reachers, Prayer Leaders, who are calling on God and working together for revival and awakening and transformation.

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Phil.... Since you're a pastor of prayer -- and so closely associated with Mission America Coalition -- I hope you caught the Rick Warren interview piece with Dr. Bright that's running at the Baptist Press site. And look what he said was the most important thing he'd learned.... 

YBIC, Neil Cox        http://IndyChristian.com 
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LAKE FOREST, Calif. (BP)--The following is a brief interview via telephone I conducted last year with Campus Crusade for Christ's founder, Bill Bright, who died July 19 at the age of 81.

Rick Warren: Would you share with us some of the things God taught you over your 50 years in ministry?

Bill Bright: First of all, I want to thank you, Rick, for the privilege to speak to the many pastors who read your newsletter. I have a special concern and burden for ... church leaders. You are the most strategic men and women in any community. That's the reason it's so crucial that you be men (and women) of God, who seek first the Kingdom of God.

The most important lesson I've learned is to love God with all my heart and soul and mind and strength, obey His commandments and to trust His promises and relax. I work day and night. I have for 50 years in the Crusade ministry and before that I had my own business in other matters.

But I can tell you; God honors a heart that is in tune with His. The number one priority I believe of every pastor -- any believer for that matter -- is to truly seek first the Kingdom and love God and obey and trust. 

Warren: Bill, many years ago -- when you were influenced by Henrietta Miers and under her influence -- I remember you drafted a contract with the Lord and part of it said, "I am your slave." Can you tell the pastors about that?

Bright: Actually, I'd been somewhat of a ... I wouldn't say a pagan (my wife doesn't want me to say that), but I was a non-believer and agnostic. I had no God; no Savior all through college and graduate school. And while I was on the faculty of Oklahoma State University extension, and a businessman in Hollywood, in my early 20's -- through the influence of the First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood and Dr. Henrietta Mears -- I received Christ. I fell in love with Him.

I immediately enrolled in seminary at Princeton, later at Fuller. I really loved the Lord from the very beginning. I was overwhelmed with His love. That I -- a sinner -- while I was yet in my sins, He died for me. My wife and I were growing together and very busy in serving the Lord. One Sunday afternoon (I'll not go into details why), God led us to sign a contract -- literally to write out a contract of total surrender of our lives to the Lord Jesus Christ -- to become His slave.

And, of course, He is our example, our model -- Philippians 2:7 speaks of Him becoming a slave. The creator of a couple hundred billion galaxies became a man, the God-man. [The Apostle] Paul refers to himself in Romans 1:1 "a slave of Jesus Christ." We felt the most important thing we could do was to become as slaves of Jesus -- signing a contract to that effect, laid everything we owned or ever would own on the altar, and we've been slaves now for 50 some years, and I must tell you it's the most liberating thing that's ever happened to me.

Warren: I believe one of the secrets of effective ministry is keep it simple -- be simple. You work real hard at that. Simple does not mean shallow and simple doesn't mean simplistic and simple doesn't mean superficial. It just means understandable.

Bright: Jesus taught in parables so the masses understood Him gladly.

Warren: One time Einstein said, "You don't really understand something unless you can say it in a simple way." Saddleback [Valley Community Church] is in one of the more educated areas in America, yet I find that the simpler I get, the more God blesses it.

Bright: I try to stay within an 800-word vocabulary with everything I speak or write.

Warren: I didn't know that, but I knew you were a master of simplicity and that's why God has used you globally -- and not with just a few intellectual giraffes. You put it out there so people can understand it. Another thing I'd like you to talk about is the power of tool-making. You're a tool-maker. When Bill Bright dies and goes to heaven, the tools that you've built are going to outlast you -- "The Four Spiritual Laws," the transferable concepts, the "JESUS" film. Here at Saddleback we do a lot of tool-making, too, because I believe that it's tools that help get the word out.

Bright: Would you believe I'm still reading Andrew Murray? I think he's been dead 150 years. And Oswald Chambers, probably 100 years. I've written over 100 books and booklets and videotapes and things, and I expect by God's grace that those will be around long after I have been enjoying the celestial city.

Warren: If you could go back to your first year of ministry, is there anything you'd do different? Are there some successful mistakes that you'd say, "I learned not to do that again!"

Bright: I think the most important thing I've learned -- in a positive way -- is to encourage people to pray. Before we began our ministry at UCLA, we organized a 24-hour prayer chain, dividing the 24 hours into 96 15-minute periods. As a result, in almost every meeting we had at UCLA -- faculty, sorority, fraternity and dormitory -- people indicated their desire to follow Christ.

Warren: That's the power of prayer.

Bright: I think more recently, in 1994, God taught me the power of fasting and prayer. I think it's the spiritual atomic bomb of all the disciplines.

Warren: There are a lot of pastors reading this who are facing the discouragement of criticism. Obviously you've had to deal with criticism all your life. How do you respond? How do you handle criticism?

Bright: Dead people don't have any feelings. We're supposed to be crucified. As a matter of fact, whenever I get hate-filled letters, I write them and tell them I love them. I'm not stressed over that. I always listen to criticism because I want to learn if there's something I need to know. But I'm never troubled with those things because there's only one person in this world I have to please and that's Jesus -- the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. If I please Him, He'll take care of the rest.

That's the reason I emphasize to all of our leaders -- Seek first the Kingdom of God, love God with all your heart, soul and mind -- and God takes care of everything else. People give me credit but I say, "I'm the slave. The Master deserves the credit." When problems arise, the Master carries the load. That's what He wants. "Cast all your cares on the Lord."

I'd say to all the pastors, don't be intimidated by any critics in your church. Just love them. You're commanded to love them whether you want to or not, as you walk in the Spirit. And I must say one of the most important qualifications to serve God is to do it in the power of the Holy Spirit -- anything we do in the energy of the flesh is wood, hay and stubble.

One of the great lessons I learned early on was to draw upon the supernatural resources of God day by day, moment by moment. For as we all know, our bodies are temples of the living God.

Another lesson I learned: I used to be very, very critical of the church. I saw all these people going to church and doing nothing. As you know, very few people witness for Christ. I saw them living as though they didn't even know the Lord. I became impatient with the church and said, "I don't want to waste my time talking to Christians. From now on I'm going to work with non-believers and when they become believers, I'm going to keep them separated from the old believers so they won't catch the same thing."

I was wrong. I discovered that these people who were not fruitful for God, and who were living in defeat, were really hungry for help. When I loved them and showed them how they could know the power of the resurrection and the fullness of God's Spirit and the power of God's Word -- the cleansing and the blood of Christ -- miracles happened.

Warren: I know the pastors reading this can sense your total dependence on Jesus Christ, your humility. I think vision is highly overrated today. I think what really blesses a ministry is, if you want the power of God in your life, its humility and integrity. I'll take a person who's humble and has integrity over a person who has vision any day. A lot of people have vision just based on ego, but it's in that dependence upon God that we get His vision and develop more trust in Him. 

What would you say is your life's message?

Bright: My life's message is be a slave of Jesus. And all that involves. Love your master, trust your master and obey your master. Obviously, I'm a son of God, heir of God, joint-heir with Christ, and if He was described as a slave -- Paul and Peter and the other apostles were slaves -- this to me is the highest privilege anyone could know. I evaluate everything I do in light of what He wants me to do. I try to relate every move, every day, in light of how I can help fulfill His Great Commission and fulfill His commandments.

Warren: What's the greatest risk you've taken in 50 years of ministry?

Bright: I guess to purchase Arrowhead Springs [the Campus Crusade facility in California]. To purchase Arrowhead Springs -- which cost $6.7 million -- and we gave $2 million for it. We had no money. We borrowed $15,000 for deposit. The owner in the contract made it very certain that the moment we failed to come up with the monthly payment, we were out without any delays. God never failed us. We've been able to train probably a million and a half people there over the years. And it literally revolutionized our lives. In those days, $2 million would be like $25 million now.

Warren: Easily! Besides the Bible, what books have really played an important role in your life and in your ministry? 

Bright: It'd be hard to say. The most important, of course, would be the Word of God. Every morning before I eat or do anything else, it's been my practice through the years to get on my knees and read the Scripture in a spirit of reverence. The Bible is not just another book. It's God's Word to us: holy, inspired and inerrant. I read it in that respect. I don't worship the Bible. I worship the One who inspired men of old to record it. It's not just another book. I don't read it just to get a lesson to pass on to somebody else. I read it for my own nourishment, my own spiritual growth.

Warren: In your 50 years of ministry the world has changed a whole lot. What would you say to a pastor about sharing the Gospel in a rapidly changing world?

Bright: I would say be culturally sensitive. I would say also learn how to write and learn how to speak. You can go to local schools. There are all kinds of extension universities and seminaries around where you can learn how to preach and teach and write. Communication is so crucial. And understanding the culture -- why, in some big cities, there are 200 different languages spoken.

I'd like to add a word, if I may, Rick. As you know, I have fibrosis of the lungs, for which there's no cure. I discovered it about three years ago. I began to praise the Lord. That's what James commands us to do -- God -- through James and through Paul. God commands in Romans 5 to rejoice. I learned many years ago, in all things to give thanks and rejoice, whatever the circumstances.

So I began to rejoice and praise God that I'd soon see Him. Then miracles began to happen. The just shall live by faith, that which is not of faith is sin, without faith it's impossible to please God. When you're praising and worshiping Him, even with a broken heart, that releases God's power because He honors faith.

Jesus said in John 14:21-23, "If you obey Me, I will manifest Myself to you." I think one of the greatest lessons I've ever learned is to praise the Lord, rejoice, give thanks no matter what the circumstances. I can tell you that the last two years or so of my life have probably been the most delightful and most productive of my entire 80 years.

Warren: That is amazing! It's the power of praise. It unlocks doors.

Bright: It does. I'd like to encourage everyone, no matter what your problems -- financial problems, physical problems -- if you're having marital problems, take it all to Him. Cast it all on Him and rejoice in the certainty that if you trust Him and obey Him and love Him, He will take care of you.

Warren: Is there anything else that we haven't talked about that you would like to add?

Bright: In the last 50 years, my number 1 priority -- as an expression of my love and act of obedience -- has been to do like Christ came into the world to do -- to seek and save the lost. I've tried to dedicate my life to seeking and saving the lost and helping fulfill the Great Commission, winning and discipling people of the world.

And in the process we've helped take the Gospel to over 6 billion. But in the last two years, we've helped take the Gospel to over 2.5 billion. No telling how many of those have come into the Kingdom. Most important is -- after they become believers -- is to make disciples. We need a million new pastors -- at least -- to help take care of all the new converts worldwide.

Warren: That's my vision, too, my burden. As I've watched the "JESUS" film reach so many of these people for Christ, the Bible says we have different roles to play. Paul says, "I planted, and Apollos watered, but God gave the increase." Part of our role here at Saddleback has been the Apollos role -- and that is to plant the churches right behind the showing of the JESUS film. Because, at that point, you have all these new converts to Christ, and they need discipling. And we try to water the pastors who need training.

Bright: That is absolutely crucial. Dr. Steel of Dawn Ministries -- a church planting ministry -- recently told me that out of the million-plus church starts in the last few years, over 750,000 of them he attributes to the showing of the JESUS film. 

Warren: I have no doubt about that. It's the most effective evangelistic tool ever invented, the JESUS film.

Bright: To God be the praise. He gave me the vision. I was a brand-new Christian, a businessman who had a great interest in communication and promotion -- that was the nature of my business. So when I became a Christian, I looked around and saw then the church of 6,500 (the church in Hollywood) -- most of the people didn't do anything. God gave me a vision to do a film on the life of Jesus. We took everything Hollywood had to offer and finally 33 years later, God was waiting for Paul Eschelman to be born and reared so he could take it over. God has used him and, of course, all of our staff all over the world. We partner with probably 2,000 different Mission groups.

Warren: We're one of them. Purpose-Driven ministries have been partnering with Crusade around the world on the JESUS film, and we're so grateful for that. Bill, this has really been an honor. I feel like this is an historic interview.

As we close, I'd like to ask you to pray for the pastors of this next generation, for young Christian leaders and pastors around the globe -- that they will have a heart for the Great Commandment and the Great Commission -- just as you've had.

Bright: Father, Holy, Holy Father, we bow, in reverence and awe before Your majesty. You're the omnipotent creator of all things. You sent Your only begotten Son, the creator under Your leadership to be our Savior, our Lord, our Master, our King. We ask in His name, the name to whom You've given all authority in heaven and on earth, to prepare millions of young men and young women to serve You on the front lines of spiritual warfare, to be men and women who seek first Your Kingdom, who love You with all their heart, soul and mind, who trust Your Word and obey Your commandments and are faithful to You, Father. 

I pray in the holy, holy name of Jesus for a continued spiritual harvest that will bring billions into Your Kingdom and liberate them out of the darkness and gloom of Satan's kingdom and bring them into the glorious Kingdom of light of Your Holy Son. In His name, we worship and praise You. In Jesus' name, we give You praise together. Amen.

Warren: And Father, I want to pray for Bill and Vonnette Bright. Thank You for the influence that they've had on my own life and the lives of millions and millions of other Christian leaders around the world. Thank You that You've given him these many years of effectiveness and fruitfulness, for his influence. I thank You for his humility, for his integrity, for his commitment to be a slave of Jesus Christ and the model that he is for all of us.

We do pray for the healing in his heart, according to Your timetable, and his lungs and that You would give him the exact number of days that You have for him on this earth. Thank You for the purpose and the mission and the life message You've given to him. May You give him the strength to fulfill each day that You give him between now and the time that You take him home to be with You. Lord, help him to sense the love from the thousands of pastors and church leaders who will read this interview and will be praying for Bill and for Vonnette, and we do pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.

Warren is pastor of Saddleback Valley Community Church in Lake Forest, Calif.

 

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I was recently faced with a major decision concerning my future. I realized that the older I got the fewer options I had, and this one was complicated because it involved financial issues. In the midst of the decision, as I was listening for God’s directions, I read Isaiah 30 as a part of my daily Bible reading. When I got to verse 21, I had to pause, as if it were written just for me. “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it’.” “Behind,” I wondered. It sure would be easier to know God’s will if He would speak to me in front, rather than behind. However, this was not a first-time experience for me. Several times in my life I have been forced to make a decision without a clear understanding of God’s direction. Each time, I made the decision based on the best understanding of the situation and what I thought, but did not know for sure, God would have me do. Each time, almost immediately following the decision, God affirmed my actions. In other words, God spoke “behind” my decision rather than in front of it. Perhaps this is what the Danish philosopher, theologian, and religious author, Soren Kierkegaard, meant when he said, “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”

I’ve already run for dear life straight to the arms of GOD.

So why should I run away now when you say, “Run to the mountains”?

Psalm 11:1 THE MESSAGE

     When you are honest to God, you admit there are times when you feel like running away. Sometimes it seems the values you thought would always be respected are ridiculed, and your nation’s wholesome influence in the international community is deteriorating rapidly. When foundations of law and order crumble, what is a believer to do? When you need a storm cellar for your soul, where can you turn?

     No matter how uncertain circumstances are, one thing is for sure—you do not have to tremble; you can trust. You do not have to turn into a jigsaw puzzle—going to pieces every time you face a problem. You do not have to wring your hands in terror—you can fold your hands in trust and let your tranquil life be a testimony to the pleasure of My company. Your situation may be shaky ground, but your soul can be serene when you are resting on the Solid Rock.

     Synthetic foundations—prestige, materialism, pleasure, money—will collapse; but you can always lean confidently on Me. Other hiding places are papier-mâché compared to Me. Human advice may be that the best thing for you to do is escape, but experience keeps teaching you that running anywhere else except to My heart is a useless exercise. With heavenly assistance available, why seek shelter elsewhere?

     You do not need to resort to psychological defense mechanisms—turn to the Eternal One. You do not have to be paralyzed by fear—move out by faith. Tough times do not come down to either fight or flight; there is a third option to resolve your dilemmas—FAITH. When you go out on a limb, I will be your Guide so you will not perish in the ravine of uncertainty below. Rather than hiding from your problems, hide in My promises. Instead of panic, enjoy My peace. You might think you would like to live trouble-free, but there is something far better—getting to know Me as you and I go through trouble together.

     I am the Divine Psychiatrist—calming your inner being when chaos encircles. I enable you to stay on an even keel on the high seas of a crazy world. Refuse to be discouraged by signs all around you that earth is the insane asylum of the universe.

     Søren Kierkegaard was right—life is not a problem for you to solve; it is a reality for you to face.

     Do not run from reality—run to Reality!

 © Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 194 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

As most of my closest friends already know, doctors have recently diagnosed me with cancer. Unbelievable. I certainly never thought it would happen to me.

Although this is supposedly a highly “treatable” form of cancer, that’s not particularly comforting. In the old days, cancer was virtually a death sentence, which has caused me to reflect on some insightful words from the apostle Paul:

We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death (2 Corinthians 1:8-9 NIV).

Paul wasn’t dealing with a cancer diagnosis at the time, yet his overwhelming circumstances and tribulations felt like “the sentence of death.” While Paul would write elsewhere of God’s faithfulness in providing a way of escape during times of trouble or temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13), here he admitted that the trials seemed “far beyond our ability to endure.”

You see, cancer isn’t the only circumstance that can feel like a death sentence. In Paul’s case, he encountered severe persecution and countless other hardships (2 Corinthians 11:23-33). For you, the problem may be a job loss, insurmountable financial pressures, divorce, or addiction in your family.

I’m really glad Paul honestly shared about his tumultuous circumstances and inner turmoil. It’s somehow comforting to know that the mighty apostle – God’s man of faith and power – had his own dark days. Yes, Paul knew how to pray, but sometimes he experienced the Lord’s sustaining grace despite a “thorn in the flesh” that refused to immediately go away (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

Thankfully, Paul learned an incredible lesson amid his apparent death sentence: “But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead” (2 Corinthians 1:9).

What a great message for us when we encounter overwhelming challenges in life. The purpose of our trials is to teach us to rely upon the Lord instead of upon our own strength and ingenuity. Even if it seems we’ve been given “the sentence of death,” we have nothing to fear: Our God even raises the dead!

No matter what you might be facing today, I hope you experience the joy of knowing you have nothing to fear. How liberating!

In my situation, I know there’s a Name far above the name of cancer (Ephesians 1:19-21). For that reason, I have no need to fear cancer, chemo, or even death itself (Hebrews 2:14-15).

Actually, since the days of Adam and Eve, all of humanity has been under a death sentence – it’s just a matter of time (Hebrews 9:27). However, because of what Jesus did for us on the cross, death has lost its sting (1 Corinthians 15:53-57). As believers, we know a day will come when we’ll be “absent from the body.” But that’s okay, Paul says. When that day comes, we’ll be “present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8).

Like the three Hebrew young men who faced the prospect of a fiery furnace, I’m confident that “the God we serve is able to deliver” (Daniel 3:17-18). Isn’t that good news?

Paul’s conclusion ended up being remarkably similar:

[God] has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many (2 Corinthians 1:10-11).

Paul’s confidence of victory over his present and future trials was partly based on how God had faithfully rescued him in the past. Can you relate? If the Lord has helped you overcome some previous “death sentence,” He can surely do it again.

It’s also beautiful to see Paul’s recognition that the prayers of his friends would play a huge role in His expected victory. In recent weeks, I’ve never had so many people praying for me – and I know they’ll share in my victory when it comes.

Although I don’t fully know what lies ahead for me on this health journey, I’m sure God will be with me every step of the way. And if you are passing through a dark, shadowy valley during your own journey today, let me assure you of His presence with you as well (Psalm 23:4).

The Bible warns that this life will not be trouble-free, even for believers (John 16:33). But although you may have to pass through deep waters or fiery trials at times, Isaiah 43:1-3 says to fear not!

Of course, the natural human response is to desire immediate deliverance from our difficult circumstances. That is certainly my preference as well. I know that God is a supernatural God, and He can change things in a mere moment.

However, in spite of my desire for speedy relief, I have an even greater desire that my journey will reflect the heart of Jesus. His soul was troubled as He neared the cross. But instead of praying for an escape plan, He said, “Father, glorify Your name!” (John 12:27-28).

May that always be our quest, for there is no greater victory.

The Lord gave me a message.

He said, “I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb.

Before you were born, I set you apart and appointed you as my spokesman to the world.”

“O Sovereign Lord” I said, “I can't speak for you!  I'm too young!”

“Don't say that” the Lord replied, “you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you.

And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and take care of you.”

Then the Lord touched my mouth and said, “See, I have put my words in your mouth!"

Jeremiah 1:4-9 NLT

You have a divine calling—I had a plan in mind for you before your birth.   

I placed My hand on your shoulder and commissioned you for a special task. 

Your highest honor in life is to be endowed with a heavenly purpose.

Above all else, make it your supreme ambition to be true to your vocation.

I promise you a divine reward—I will not forget your hard work on My behalf.

Treasure the pleasure of My company as you serve Me day by day.

Anticipate the joy of living with Me in My home eternally. 

Look forward to the compensation of My words of commendation.

I provide divine empowerment—I overcome your feelings of inadequacy.

Weak? I am strong. Ineloquent? Use My words. Incapable? Lean on Me.   

Not up to My assignment? Whatever I ask of you, I help you accomplish. 

I guarantee divine protection—whatever happens, I will take care of you. 

Do not be afraid of your audience—their scowls do not compare to My smile.

Do not quake at delivering unpopular messages—you are in good company.

Do not flinch when people laugh at you—one day, they will cry before Me.

Do not run anywhere—unless it is into My everlasting arms.

I am your Fortress—giving you nerves of steel and a moral backbone.

I am your Rock in a quicksand world—stronger than any hostile force.

Deliver My divine message—an unsteady, hurting world needs to hear it. 

Worried about running out of anything to say? Share My eternal Word.

Anxious about creatively holding others' attention? Preach Scripture. 

Wondering where to get ideas? Let Jesus be the theme of every sermon.

Follow My divine directions—you have your orders, now obey them.

Let Me choose the coordinates—then bloom where you are planted.

Be concerned about divine success—not success by the world's standards. 

Doubting you are making headway at the task I have given you? Persevere.

Wondering if you are making any difference? Stay focused on the cross.

Discouraged by sparse results? Jeremiah preached 40 years without any.

Work conscientiously for Me—the smile of your Boss will amply repay you.  

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

“A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.”— Proverbs 18:2.

Too bad the USA has this separation of church and state when it comes to political discussions.  This separation, as pertains to Proverbs 18:2, has turned us into fools.

Since we now only express our opinions and eschew understanding of others, we have fertilized the extreme right and the extreme left.  The goal of the extreme right has always been to eviscerate the left.   The goal of the extreme left has always been to eviscerate the right.  As this manured “sword play” continues, each side has only one way to grow:  toward the middle.

This encroachment on the middle continues to convert people to “Proverbs 18:2 fools.”  So, can America heal?  Yes.  There is a saying that states, “If you’re in a deep hole and want to get out, you first have to stop digging.  So, if America is ever to heal, “Proverbs 18:2 fools” on both sides must stop cutting each other.  Those of the un-encroached middle will have to stop shoveling [CENSORED] on the far right and the far left.  Unenriched far right and far left plantings will shrink if not nourished.  The middle could again become a bountiful American plain.

Do I trust that mankind can do this?  No.  I no longer trust mankind, present company included.  The only one I trust for this task is God.  I know He will help.  The question is, as an entire nation, are we willing to ask Him to do so. 

If you want to be my follower you must love me more than

your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters –

yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple.

You cannot be my disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow me.

Count the cost. No one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me.

Luke 14:26-28a, 33 NLT

Sanctify your heart—consecrate your inner being to Me.

In grateful response to My mercy, love Me wholeheartedly.

Live passionately—prioritize My cause above earth’s trivial pursuits.

Live thoughtfully—ponder behavior, and reside in the moral highlands.

Live energetically—serve Me with all your strength and health.

Live creatively—allow Me to work through your unique personality.

Live loyally—make Me your Center of Gravity.

Live lovingly—adore Me with sincere affection nothing can kill.

Shoulder your cross—carry responsibilities willingly, without griping.

No difficulty or frustration begins to match the cross I carried for you.

Do not run from suffering—it is part of the landscape of obedience.

I endured excruciating pain for you—it is your turn to hang in there for Me.

There is only one way you can bear the cross I give you—grace.

Live unselfishly—put aside egocentric ambition and focus on others.

Live courageously—splinters from the cross should not surprise you.

Live nobly—follow my example; walk in My steps.

Surrender your life—count the cost of being My disciple.

Live for my glory—never seek your own.

Hold nothing back—renounce the idea of ownership.

Recognize My sovereignty—acknowledge that I rule and overrule all.

Be totally sincere in working for Me—take My business seriously.

Live humbly—do not be self-assertive; remember your place.

Live hopefully—practice downward mobility and I will promote you.

Live carefully—calculate the cost of obeying, and the higher cost of rebelling.

Live radically—give up everything for Me and finish the Faith Marathon.

© 2013 Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 317 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Rejoice in the Lord, O you [uncompromisingly] righteous [you upright in right standing with God];

for praise is becoming and appropriate for those who are upright [in heart.]

Psalm 33:1 THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE

     Praise Me for musical celebration—let your heart sing because of My inspiring symphony. Let the rhythm of Life put a spring in your step. Confessing the name of Jesus, make it a habit to give Me the credit due for life’s blessings—let your speech honor Me. Praise Me for praise.  

     Praise Me for the message of Christ—let your heart sing because of invaluable salvation. Forgiven by his blood, strengthened by his grace, equipped to do his work by his strength, hopeful by his promises—tell love’s never-ending story to all who will listen. Praise Me for peace.    

     Praise Me for merciful clemency—let your heart sing because of incredible solace. Time after time, Israel’s high priests carried blood into the Most Holy Place as an offering for sin, and then burned the bodies outside the city limits. The Great High Priest himself became the definitive offering for sin—dying on a cross outside Jerusalem’s gates. His blood is the final evidence of My love.  Praise Me for pardon.

     Praise Me for magnificent creation—let your heart sing because of the inspiration of nature. First believe, then understand this truth—I made the universe out of nothing! Praise Me for perfection. 

     Praise Me for My mastery of countries—let your heart sing because of My international supervision. The best country is yet to come. Praise Me for something greater than patriotism. 

     Praise Me for My mindful concern—let your heart sing because of My intimate solicitude. I made you, understand you, and care for you. I will never orphan you in life’s storms. Praise Me for Providence.         

     Praise Me for My mighty command—let your heart sing because of My infinite strength. Military forces sometimes deter aggression, but I am the true Superpower. Do not fear mere mortals; they can hurt, but they cannot destroy.  Praise Me for My power.

     Praise Me for being your Mainstay and Confidence—let your heart sing because of My invariable stability. Praise Me for permanence.

     Attitude determines your living. Even in dungeons, I inspire hymns.    Other prisoners will be listening—be sure to sing well!

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

God will redeem me from the power of Sheol (the place of the dead);

He will receive me. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

Psalm 49:15 THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE

     You cannot stare directly for long at the sun or at death—the first would blind you; the second would overwhelm you. Nevertheless, I encourage you to pause and ponder a moment your human mortality and My promise of immortality. 

     Trusting in fleeting riches is deceitful. Money cannot buy time. Neither can it compare to spiritual wealth. When you die, you will leave everything behind;    but who you are is yours forever. Be careful what you become—invest in heavenly treasures that thieves cannot steal, rust cannot corrupt, and moths cannot destroy. Set your heart on eternity. Make Me your highest joy.

     Triumph in My faithful redemption and deliverance from death. What I promised Israel I promise you—I will ransom you from death, and redeem you from the power of the grave. 

     By faith, you can look death squarely in the face, and exultantly proclaim Where, O death is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? Thanks be to God, who gives me victory through the Lord Jesus Christ. The philosopher Heidegger spoke of the inevitability of nonbeing,  implying people eventually cease to exist. Do not believe such gibberish. You are a creation of the Immortal One—sculpted in My image, you will continue to exist as long as I do! You can overcome fear of      the awful enemy of death by trusting My Son who rose triumphantly.              

     Travel optimistically toward the future of rejoicing I have planned. I am leading you toward a glorious destiny—immortality and heaven! Each step you take brings you one step closer to home. Chardin conceptualized an Omega Point—             a singularity in time of infinite density and temperature, toward which the universe will collapse in a backward Big Bang he called the Big Crunch,          an implosion with enough energy to bring back to virtual life all creatures that ever lived. Jesus does not just philosophize—He promises that all the dead in their graves will hear his voice and will rise again, some to enjoy eternal life, others to endure agonizing separation from good. The Alpha and Omega is the ultimate answer to a grave situation—I show you the path of life, bless you with pleasure of My company, and will greet and embrace you in heaven.    You are not in a funeral procession to oblivion, but a victory parade to glory!     

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond;  Gentle Whispers from Eternity

There are many methods that we can look to in order to develop a dynamic prayer life. But what if the best method isn't a method at all, but rather a viewpoint?

What if the best way to view prayerfully sitting before the Lord is to see it as one-on-one discipleship with Him - or as I like to call it; "The One-on-one discipleship"?

Reading through the Old Testament we get to read front-row accounts through centuries of Heroes of the Faith learning how to walk by faith not by sight before the Lord. At the beginning of that journey, Abram has no idea what's about to hit him when the Lord offers him the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 17). Abraham's descendants struggle to maintain a pursuit of God that resembles that of their forefather. Centuries later again - Moses comes along at a crucial moment and proposes what had to have been just the most radical notion to them - to trust God to lead them from slavery to independent nationhood.

Again - a few centuries later and now God's chosen people are pitching God their own vision - they want a King. God warns them.

Does this remind you of how God introduces His vision for our lives to us - and then walks us through it? Sometimes we get what He's talking about right away. Sometimes we don't.

Discipleship is first and foremost what happens as God teaches us and reveals to us His heart as He answers this prayer with a resounding yes, says no to that one, and waits silently for us to lean in ever closer and closer to hear Him better on this other matter.

In the beginning when we're young and full of youthful certainty oh my do we love His yeses. But as we grow older, and hopefully much wiser - we learn to love all of His answers. They are all Him. They all reveal His tender-loving Father heart for us. They are all a part of His holy discipleship.

That's all! Thanks for reading. May the King of the Universe disciple you closer to His heart every day.

The days are different. Some days I find myself with high energy, desiring to accomplish much. Then on other days, I just want to sit on the porch and sip coffee. Carl Sandburg expressed it this way: “There is an eagle in me that wants to soar, and there is a hippopotamus in me that wants to wallow in the mud.” However, Helen Keller countered with “One can never consent to creep when one feels the impulse to soar.” The idea that compares youth to soaring like an eagle, is mentioned several times in the Bible, but its application should not be limited to the young. In Old Testament days, there was a popular idea, based on a rabbinical story, that the eagle renewed its youth (actually, renewed its plumage), in extreme old age. In Psalm 103:5, the psalmist refers to the fresh and vigorous appearance of the bird with its new plumage, “your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” Understanding that belief, Isaiah wrote, “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). While he wasn’t commenting directly on the Isaiah passage, A. W. Tozer wrote, “In almost everything that touches our everyday life on earth, God is pleased when we’re pleased. He wills that we be as free as birds to soar and sing our maker’s praise without anxiety.” So, on your high energy days, go ahead and soar like the eagle, and on other days, creep on out to the porch, and pull up a chair.

An alarming report recently grabbed my attention:

A seven-year study of the causes of death among teens in America observed that the top three causes of death were accidents, homicide, and suicide.* Almost half­ of those tragedies—about 68,000 deaths—were accidents, and most of those accidents—about 46,000—were by motor vehicle.

  Sit back for a moment and reflect with me. What led to those 131,000 deaths? Bad choices. The general principle: Bad choices take away life; wise choices add life.

  Those dramatic statistics help me focus on a vital priority in my “intentional grandparenting”: I need to help my grandchildren become wiser and wiser. They need to show in their attitudes and behavior that (1) they understand the consequences of their choices and (2) have the wisdom to choose well.

  My lead-off blog in this series about “intentional grandparenting” focused on the alarming message of Judges 2:10. It challenged us to engage intentionally in the ministry of “intergenerational discipling” by praying for—and influencing—each of our own grandchildren to begin their individual, redemptive relationship with God.

  Once they begin that relationship with Him, they need to nourish it by cultivating wisdom. God’s Word says much about living and choosing wisely. It is a lifelong commitment that builds on “fearing” the Lord (Proverbs 1:7) as a way of life.

  The Hebrew word in the Old Testament that is translated “wise” is used in various contexts. In the context of life in general, this word describes a person who is skillful and practical at living in harmony with God’s expectations. We find this word most often in the “wisdom literature”: Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes.

  How does wisdom show in our grandkids? Proverbs 3, 4, and 5 show us that the proof of our grandchildren’s developing wisdom is their increasing knowledge, understanding, and ability to make the right choices at the right time and in the right way. Are they understanding and choosing wisely in a few situations, or in many situations? Their consistency in this is a measure of their developing maturity.

  What difference does wise living make? Its impact is significant:

• A lifestyle of walking wisely is our highest offering of worship to God (Ephesians 4:1; 5:1-2; James 3:13, 17).
• Walking wisely brings personal peace in relationships and situations, rather than anxiety and chaos (Proverbs 1:32-33; James 3:14-18).
• Our wisdom is a witness to those living in darkness who watch us (Deuteronomy 4:6).
• Walking wisely helps our children and grandchildren set an influential example as they teach their future children and grandchildren the wisdom of loving and walking in harmony with God (Deuteronomy 4:9).

  Loving Father in heaven, please help    (name of each grandchild)    to take another step forward in Your wisdom this month. Please open my eyes to a way that I can be an example for them and an encouragement to them along their journey into the wisdom of honoring You by choosing well. For Your glory and in Jesus’ name, amen.

© 2019 John Garmo

* NCHS data brief, no. 37. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics, 2010.

This message was kept secret for centuries and generations past,

but now it has been revealed to his own holy people. 

This is the secret: Christ lives in you, your assurance you will share in his glory.

Colossians 1:26-27 NLT

Christ’s promise in your mind is your hope of an eternal destiny of joy.

Christ’s love in your heart is your guarantee of a heavenly home.

Christ’s Spirit in your soul is your security you are bound for glory. 

Christ’s presence in your life is your foretaste of glory divine. 

The universe with its innumerable galaxies cannot contain Me—

     yet I have taken up residence in hearts of all who welcome Me.

Because I live in you—

     you can count on inheriting the blessing of sharing in My glorious reign; 

     you have been rescued from the dark side, and live as a child of the Light;

     you have been made a privileged citizen of My eternal Kingdom;

     you have been freed from sin’s addiction and destructiveness;

     you have been forgiven of sin’s guilt, and can face eternity fearlessly.

Certainty of eternal life is not based on doubtful faith, but trusting reliance. 

Promised glory is not mere wishful thinking—My promises will materialize. 

Your ultimate destination is a land beyond time, change and decay.

     Heaven on earth will be a deathless, tearless, painless, sinless place.

Looking forward to the ecstasy of infinite glory,

     you are motivated by a changed purpose—Christ, not yourself;

     you anticipate a changed destiny—heaven, not hell;

     you demonstrate a changed lifestyle—holiness, not wickedness.

Identified with Christ, you are victorious over sin and death now;

     and you are destined for unimaginable glory someday—

     more beautiful than any painting can picture,

     more joyous than any symphony can convey,

     more magnificent than any literature can describe.  

Roman generals returning from victory were greeted by a great procession

     lining streets and cheering, vanquished troops marching in chains,

     strange animals brought from subjugated lands, musicians and singers    

     celebrating conquests, his children robed in white riding trace horses,

     a slave riding with him in his chariot holding a crown for him

     and whispering in his ear, “All glory is fleeting.” And so it is. 

The one exception is Christ’s glory awaiting you—it is not too good to last.

An eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison will reward your faith. 

 © Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

Psalm 25:1 ESV

     I am the Most High God—Ruler of the universe, God above all, King of kings and Lord of lords. No judge is greater than Me—when you rest your case in heaven’s supreme court, no lesser court can overturn My ruling. When you sin, My Son pleads your case as your Defense Counsel.  My not guilty verdict is irreversible. 

     No commander outranks Me— when you follow My orders, you are following the best strategy to win life’s battles. When dark forces attack, they cannot extinguish the Light. 

     No force can overpower Me—so when you depend on My strength, you are energized and encouraged to tackle life’s challenges. Faith transforms impossible situations. Nothing is beyond My power— receive My help and you can do whatever I ask of you.

     Lifting up your soul to Me is your most uplifting experience.  In My Presence, you are as high as you can be. When you lift up your soul to Me, I lift you up. Finding Me is an uplifting experience. I am your Vindication—the Beginning of the journey.

     Leaning on Me guarantees your triumph. Faith in Me is an uplifting experience. Trust Me and enjoy peace of mind. I am your Victory—the Beauty of the journey.              

     Learning from Me educates you in truth. Familiarity with Me is an uplifting experience. Obey Me and I will make Myself real to you. I am your Vision—the Best of the journey.   

     Loved by Me, you are changed. Forgiveness is an uplifting experience.      I am the Secret of invulnerable joy. Unfailing Love sustains you every heartbeat. Mercy holds you together. I am your Vitality—the Blessing of the journey.   

     Lift up your soul to Me—loving God, ruling King, merciful Sacrifice.  Then you will experience life’s highest possible joy!

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond—Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer and did not withdraw his unfailing love from me.

Psalm 66:20 NLT

I have not rejected your prayer—I have responded to you.

When you confess your wrongdoing, I cleanse your soul.

When you cry out in desperation, I pay attention to your pain.

When you plead for help, I do not turn a deaf ear.

Prayer is always a local call—wherever you are, I can hear you.

Praise Me for an audience with the King.

I have not restricted your praise—I have released you.

You do not have to hide your faith as a secret disciple—breathe free.

You do not have to stifle your joy—sing My praises for the entire world.

I have made you genuinely rich by giving you a contented mind.

Praise Me for invulnerable joy greater than any earthly happiness.

I have not refused your pleas—I have reinforced you.

My awesome miracles on your behalf irrefutably prove My love.

Enemies of your soul, including the evil one, cringe at My power.

Trust in Me—and trouble will not get you down.

Stay close to Me—and the prince of the world will not conquer you.

Praise Me for supernatural assistance.

I have not removed your problems—I have refined you.

Adversity is My University—trust Me and pass the tests of your faith.

Low points teach you lessons you would never learn any other way.

The fiery crucible purges filth—trying floodwaters remove debris.

I defend in guilt, comfort in sorrow, and encourage in frustration.

Praise Me for being your Travel Companion on rough roads.

I have not renounced My promises—I have redeemed you.

My Son became a Sacrificial Lamb to buy your freedom from sin.

I keep all My promises to you—I am the God of My Word.

With all my heart, I love you—love Me the same way.

Praise Me for the honor of serving the God of Truth and Love.

 © Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 217 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Most of my early heroes were workaholics, and some were also perfectionists. What an amazing, yet deadly mix! No surprise then, that I developed the same two traits. Then I discovered that I was good at multi-tasking. Most of my life, friends seemed to be amazed at how much I could accomplish. I assume, to whatever degree that was true, it was because of the blending of these three ingredients. I had the “disease” of which Nigel Cumberland wrote in his book, 100 Things Successful People Do, “The new disease of our age is being OK doing everything at exactly the same time.” I envisioned myself like the guy at the circus who was able to spin multiple plates on rods at the same time. My secret was to work continually with one plate, until I could make it spin with perfection, then, slowly add plates, until I was spinning as many as the circus performer. As Jesus described Martha, He could have been describing me, “you are worried and troubled about many things” (Luke 10:41). I learned too late the wisdom in Ecclesiastes 4:6, “Better a handful with quietness than both hands full, together with toil.” But I did accomplish a great deal. For that I am both grateful and thankful. No regrets. I was asked the other day, what would I do different if I was eighteen years old again, with my life to re-live. My answer was, “with the exception of a cancelled summer try-out for a minor league baseball team, very little.” As the years of my life add up, one of the things I’ve discovered missing is the ability to multi-task like I used to be able to do. One man said he was fully capable of multi-tasking. He could leave his office, cross the street, read the directions to his next appointment, talk on his cell phone, and get hit by a car, all at the same time. I’m still somewhat of a workaholic and very much a perfectionist, but one thing at a time, please. Anyone else shifting from multi-tasking to single focusing?

Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord.

Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.

Psalm 5:3 NLT

Good morning! This is a good time for you to praise Me. I watched over you and kept you safe through night’s refreshing sleep. My Spirit sang a lullaby to your heart—now I am your wake-up call. My compassions are new every morning. My faithfulness never fails. My mercy is infinite. In the morning—first thing when you awake—as the last thing you did before you closed your eyes in sleep, celebrate My love. Let prayer be the key to lock the night, and the key to open the morning. Morning is good—worship Me.

Good morning! This is a good time for you to petition My throne. Let Me know what troubles your heart, thank Me for answers to prayer, and I will bless you with peace beyond description or analysis or comprehension. Anxiety and doubt melt away on the holy ground beneath your knees. Morning is good—at My throne make all your wants and wishes known.

Good morning! This is a good time for you to exercise patience. Wait for Me—hope in My promises. Yearn for My Presence more than security guards long for the morning shift to relieve their tiring watch. Count on My Word. Morning is good—it is My waiting room.

Good morning! This is a good time for you to celebrate the sunrise of faith driving away fear’s night. Delightful daybreak drives away scary nightmares and dark depression. Though you weep through a long, dark night of the soul, joy will dawn. You may trudge through shadows of pain now, but you will dance in the glory of paradise in My good time. The return of the King will transform earth’s mourning into eternity’s morning. Morning is good—redefining the word wonderful.

Good morning! This is a good time for you to mark the beginning of a new day of your life. Recognize My guiding voice, renew your vow to be loyal to Me, and reshape your vision. In the dewy morning hours, rediscover Me as your Savior, Hiding Place, Song, and Center of Gravity. Morning is good—opening the windows of My love.

At daybreak lay your case before Me as your Defense Counsel. Resolve to keep your eyes on Me through every hour of this day. At sunset, you will have no cause to hang your head in shame—instead, you can celebrate the victories that began early in the morning.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 193 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Then Job replied to the Lord:

“I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted.”

Job 42:1-2 NIV

The experience classroom is where you learn profound wisdom. The school of hard knocks presents a tough curriculum, but what you learn experientially alters you more than what you learn academically.

The first lesson you need to learn is that My power is unlimited. If you treat Me as Lord of your life, nothing I ask will be too hard for you to do. Humanly speaking, some challenges are outside the realm of possibility—     but within My realm of grace everything is possible.

Another reality you need to grasp is I have a plan for your life. I orchestrate a master plan for your good. Death’s terror, life’s problems, demon’s distractions, and the future’s worries cannot kill My love. Pain sculpts you into Christ’s image, if you submit to the Sculptor. Through difficult circumstances, I teach you the principle of trust. In the valley, you learn lessons you would never learn on the mountain.

The truth you most need to know is the reality of My Presence. Hearing about Me secondhand is interesting; seeing Me for yourself is transforming.     I am your Travel Companion on the journey of life. My Spirit shines brightly in your darkest night. Follow My lead, and you cannot go wrong. Trust Me, and you will forever be glad you did.

You need to learn the value of intercessory prayer. Even after Job’s friends misjudged and harshly criticized him, he prayed for them. When people hurl accusations at you or question your motives, you may not feel like praying for them; but faith demands that you do. Jesus intercedes for you. Follow His example—be thoughtful of others’ needs.

Learn day-by-day the riches of My provision. I blessed Job in the autumn of his life more than in the spring. I will do the same for you. Everything you need—in every season of life—I will lavishly provide. Whatever happens, count on Me—everything will be fine.

Finally, you will learn the reward of My peace. Like the wine at Cana’s feast, I saved the best for last for Job. Double blessings after his ordeal confirmed My love. He persevered, so I caused a joyful outcome. Endure hard times, and I will bless you with lasting joy. Learn My lessons well—then graduate from Adversity University with highest honors.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 192 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Joe and Mary enter the church and talk to long-term friends. They get a cup of coffee and ask how Sarah how she’s enjoying their new house. Joe and Mary sit down in their familiar seats by the center aisle so they can leave quickly. They sing some songs, hear a message, and then go home.

A church culture has dominated a mission culture in many of our churches. Too many "Christians" are busy playing church instead of seeking the heart of Jesus. As a result, the church is declining in the US.  Jesus’ example and teaching
in Luke 5 helps us change a church culture to a mission culture.

1. Obey Jesus’ word

After not catching any fish, Jesus asked Simon to let down his nets in deep water for a catch. By obeying His word, their nets broke with so many fish.  Simon Peter fell down at Jesus' feet saying he was sinful. Jesus said to Simon, "Do not fear, from now on you will be catching men." They left everything and followed Him (Luke 5:1-11).  Obey  Jesus' word and admit sinfulness to bear fruit in evangelism.

2. Pray for spiritual power

A leper was cured immediately when he saw Jesus and begged to be made clean. Jesus ordered him to see a priest and make an offering for his cleansing as Moses commanded and as a testimony. News spread as great multitudes gathered to hear Jesus and be healed of their sicknesses.  Often times, Jesus would slip away to pray alone (Luke 5:12-16).  Pray to provide power for physical and spiritual healing. 

3. Show compassion for sinners

Because of the crowd, some men carrying a paralyzed man went up on the roof and let him down through tiles to set him in front of Jesus. So skeptical and condemning Pharisees would "know the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins," the paralyzed man rose from his stretcher where he had been lying and went home, giving glory to God (Luke 5:17-26). Show compassion instead of condemning sinners.  

4. Share a clear verbal witness

Jesus told a tax-gatherer named Levi to follow Him. He left everything behind and followed Him (Luke 5:27-28). Witness verbally and challenge people to follow Christ so they will repent.

5. Socialize with those who need to know Jesus

After Levi invited other tax-gatherers and gave a big reception for Jesus, the Pharisees and scribes grumbled at His disciples saying, "Why do you eat and drink with tax-gatherers and sinners?" Jesus answered that since the sick need a physician, He was calling sinners to repentance, not the righteous (Luke 5:29-32). Influence sinners by having meals and personal relationships. 

6. Delight in God's presence

The religious leaders said John's and Pharisees' disciples fast and offer prayers, but "Yours eat and drink." Jesus answered that it was appropriate for his disciples not to fast since He, as the bridegroom, was present with them now and not later (Luke 5:33-35). Delight in God's presence and have fun relating with others. 

7. Use new methods

One doesn't tear a piece from a new garment and put it on an old garment since it won't match the old. You also don't "put new wine into old wineskins, otherwise the new wine will burst the skins, and it will be spilled out, and the skins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. And no one, after drinking old wine wishes for new; for he says, 'The old is good enough'" (Luke 5:36-39). Use new methods for greater effectiveness in making disciples.

 To move from a church culture to a mission culture, I will do the following:

1. Obey Jesus' word and admit sinfulness to bear fruit in evangelism  
2. Pray for physical and spiritual healing
3. Show compassion instead of condemning sinners
4. Witness verbally and challenge people to follow Christ so they will repent
5. Influence sinners by having meals and personal relationships
6. Delight in God's presence and have fun relating with others
7. Use new methods for greater effectiveness in making disciples

For more posts, go to www.markpomeroy.com

Father’s Day is a special time for families—but that doesn’t mean it’s always an easy time. Like any holiday, Father’s Day can either be pleasant or painful, magical or mayhem. It’s a great opportunity to reflect on the heritage you’re leaving as a parent or grandparent, but that can be a cause for either celebration or concern.

Picture the family line of a good friend of mine. If the whole gang could somehow be brought together for a family reunion, I can only imagine the sparks that would fly.

• One of my friend’s female ancestors slept with her father-in-law and bore him twin boys.
• Another member of the family tree was a prostitute, known for being a very convincing liar.
• The family line included someone from a despised ethnic group that had its origins in incest between a father and daughter.
• Two ancestors were involved in an adulterous relationship, and the man ultimately killed his lover’s husband to keep the affair from being discovered.
• Several ancestors had multiple wives, and others were known for worshiping idols.

And you think you have some crazies in your family lineage?! The good news is that God is able to redeem terrible situations like these and transform them with His amazing grace.

How do I know? Because the Friend I’m referring to is Jesus.

Jesus’ genealogy in Matthew 1 reveals all of the sinful and dysfunctional ancestors I’ve described, and yet this was the human lineage of the Son of God. Instead of being able to boast of a spotless family lineage, the Bible describes our spotless Lord and Savior as “a root out of dry ground” (Isaiah 53:2).

So what does this mean for you and me? Several things:

1. Experiencing and extending God’s grace. You need to experience God’s grace and then extend it to your imperfect, dysfunctional family members—just as you’re hopeful they will offer grace to cover your If the twisted members of Jesus’ family tree could find grace enough to become a part of His royal lineage, then surely there’s hope for your weird relatives as well.
2. No more blame-shifting. It’s time to quit blaming others and making excuses for our past. Sure, your family upbringing may have been a mess. But God stands ready to turn your MESS into your MESSAGE—if you’ll let Him. Through divine intervention, your family tree can undergo a new beginning today. You don’t have to fall into the same old sins and strongholds of your earthly heritage, because you’ve been redeemed from the “futile way of life inherited from your forefathers” (1 Peter 1:18). In Christ, you’re a new creation, no matter who your earthly ancestors were (2 Corinthians 5:17).
3. Facing the facts. If I were writing the book of Matthew, I would have been tempted to doctor the records and “sanitize” Jesus’ family tree. Couldn’t Matthew have just listed all the success stories and none of the embarrassments of Jesus’ ancestors? Yet the beauty of the gospel is that it transforms sinners—people like you and me. If people were already perfect, they wouldn’t need to be transformed. So the next time you wish you could erase some names from your family tree, think again. Face the truth, and let it set you free (John 8:32).

During this special holiday, perhaps you’ll experience some regrets or face some things that deserve repentance. Yet as you allow God’s grace and mercy to fill your heart, you will be able to see your heritage in a new light, celebrating your family lineage more wholeheartedly than ever before.

Armed with this new grace-inspired vision, I pray the Lord will use you to bring hope and healing to those around you who need it most.