Discipleship Network Forum

God has no grandchildren.

Reading through the Old Testament book of Judges recently, a sentence jumped off the page and jabbed at my heart: After them another generation rose up who did not know the Lord or the works He had done for Israel (Judges 2:10 HCSB).

Really?! How could this happen to people whose parents and grandparents had “worshiped the Lord throughout Joshua’s lifetime and during the lifetimes of the elders who outlived Joshua,” and who had seen all that the Lord had done for them (Judges 2:7)? And what were the consequences?

The answer to that last question comes clearly and dearly in the next four paragraphs of Judges 2: They abandoned the Lord. They embraced idols. Their loving but justifiably angry God disciplined them through defeat by neighboring nations. Their hearts turned toward Him only when they were under duress. Whenever He intervened and relieved their stress, their hearts returned to their rebellious ways.

The answer to the first question, apparently, is that very little intergenerational disciple-making happened within those families — or it was very poorly done.

I thought about our grandchildren. Will they grow up not knowing the Lord or the works He has done for us, his chosen people (1 Peter 2:9)?

“Not on our watch,” my wife and I declared. Although their parents are a primary influence on our grandchildren, we as grandparents are a strong secondary influence on them in such matters.

This blog series outlines key steps that we, and other kindred spirits, are taking to become even more intentional about our spiritual legacy — our impact — as grandparents. We’ll focus on clear understandings, firm convictions, strategic tools in our grandparenting treasure chest, and fruitful outcomes. Let’s begin . . .

Our commitment to intentional grandparenting is founded on certain rock-solid realities. Our convictions drive our values, and our values drive our attitudes and behaviors. That so, here is one basic conviction (of several) that wise grandparents embrace:

It’s true: God has no grandchildren.

In Judges and throughout the Bible, we see that a person’s relationship with God is not “grandfathered” through someone else’s relationship. We may have a relationship with God that is similar to that of an ancestor or mentor—but our relationship with Him comes directly and only through God the Son.

“So what?” you may ask. One implication of this for grandparents is that we need to recognize that relationship as spiritual priority #1 for each grandchild. We need to pray for their saving and growing relationship with God. Then we need to enable or support it appropriately.

Questions for discussion or journaling:

1. In my situation, what are one or two appropriate ways to enable or support their relationship with God?
2. In my situation, what are one or two inappropriate or risky ways to enable or support their relationship with God?

O Father in heaven, please bring each of my grandchildren into a saving and growing relationship with You. Help me to enable that and to encourage them in appropriate ways that You ordain. In Jesus’s name and for Your glory in and through them, amen.

© 2019 John Garmo

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 ;

I am the way, the truth, and the life.

No one can come to the Father except through me.

John 14:6 NLT

I am the only Road that leads to the destination of glory.

Convicted of sin, do a repentant U-turn and travel the King’s Highway.

Challenged by righteousness, set out to be like your Sinless Savior.

Convinced of judgment, make a conscious effort to prepare yourself.

My death on the cross paved the highway to the Father’s future.

My blood on your soul marks you as a child of God He will not disown.

Follow the Way—and be confident of reaching heaven.

I am the only Reality that defines goodness.

Lied to by the dark prince, turn a deaf ear to his brainwashing.

Led by the Spirit of truth, listen well and learn life’s greatest lessons.

Loved by the One knowing you best, stay near and enjoy My company.

My light liberates you to sing for joy in the Father’s freedom.

My Spirit in your mind teaches you truth you would not learn otherwise.

Learn the Truth—and be changed for good from the inside out.

I am the only Redeemer who distributes grace.

Attacked by the evil one, do not forget that he is a hateful killjoy.

Attracted by the Holy Spirit, surrender and know life in all its fullness.

Approved by the Father, revel in His love and rest assured of heaven.

My promise guarantees the bright tomorrow of the Father’s festival.

My melody in your heart instructs you in faith’s dance of joy.

Celebrate the Life—and be cheerful in all circumstances.

I am the Way to the Truth of Life.

Your search for heaven, significance, and vitality ends in My heart.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 323 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Recently I woke up thinking about an intriguing phrase in Paul’s statement to the Colossians:

²⁷ to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. ²⁸ We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. ²⁹ For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me (Colossians 1:27-29 NASB).

Wow. Paul knew what his purpose in life was! He realized he had a mission to proclaim Christ and make disciples, and he also recognized that God’s mighty power within him was enabling him to fulfill that mission.

So what is YOUR mission and MY mission? Do we have a clear grasp on the answer to that question?

Of course, to some extent our mission should be exactly the same as Paul’s – the Great Commission given to every Christian. However, in other ways, our purpose is a unique and personalized calling the Lord has given us. For example, Paul and Peter were contemporaries and both were apostles. Yet they didn’t have exactly the same calling and focus.

A few more thoughts…

• Paul said he had been given a “high calling” and “upward call of God” (Philippians 3:14). In the same way, we should recognized that we’re called to go HIGHER! We must resist the temptation to settle for a LOW or substandard Christian life.

• Acts 13:36 says David “served the purpose of God in his own generation.” That should be our objective too! In each generation, God has certain things that are particularly on His heart. Do we know what He desires to do in this generation?

• For each of us, there are SEASONS for how God’s calling is being walked out in our lives (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, Ecclesiastes 8:5). For example, when we’re raising young children we must inevitably give that responsibility a great deal of our time and attention.

So…

I encourage you to prayerfully write a personalized mission statement like Paul did, ending with his conclusion: “for this purpose I labor.”

Psalm 84:5 promises, “Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, whose heart is set on pilgrimage.”

Blessings to you on the pilgrimage to your high calling!

You are Yahweh, Most High over all the earth, far transcending all gods.

Psalm 97:9 TNJB

I am Most High over earth—exalt Me above false gods of the heart.

Idols are low-life—I am the Infinite High God.

Idols are deaf—I pay attention to every prayerful word.

Idols are heartless and insensitive—I care deeply about you.

Idols are blind—I am aware of every agony, attitude, and action.

Take the high road of eminent domain, not the low road of idolatry.

Surrender to My Transcendent Highness!

I am Most High over everything—understand that idolatry is insanity.

Decisions built on atheism construct a dead-end road.

Take the high road of enthusiastic devotion, not the low road of irreverence.

Submit in thoughtful homage!

I am Most High over ethics—live as a child of the Light.

Avoid shadows—do not scurry like a cockroach in dark corners.

Stay close to My heart and make Me the Tour Guide on your journey,

     then you will not be down-in-the-mouth for fear of being found out.

Take the high road of excellent determination, not the low road of iniquity.

Struggle on in My transforming holiness!

I am Most High over eternity—feel for people who are joyless.

Let your heart go out to those who do not worship Me—

     people who will one day sadly experience My wrath firsthand.

The other side of mercy’s coin has a cutting edge—there is hell to pay!

Take the high road of expectant deliverance, not the low road of incredulity.

See the terrifying hereafter!

I am Most High over ecstasy—honor My reign as King of the cosmos.

I am Lord of the universe—so all will ultimately be right with the world.

With very little to celebrate in your unbalanced world,

     here is a great reason to rejoice—I am redeeming you from sin.

Someday it will become crystal clear that I am absolutely right—

     and that I am earth’s Rightful Ruler.

Take the high road of exultant delight, not the low road of indifference.

Sing in triumphant happiness!

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 230 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Several times recently I have heard it said that God showed “favor” on someone or some group. Wondering where this phrase originated, I went to multiple translations of the Bible, until I found in the Holman Christian Standard Bible, the following translation: “May Yahweh look with favor on you” (Numbers 6:26). And why had I never seen this verse before, I asked. So, I went to my New King James Bible, as well as a few other translations and found the familiar words, “The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26). Ah ha! In the church where I spent my early teenage years, the choir often closed the worship service by singing this blessing, a blessing passed on by Moses to the children of Israel. The priests were solemnly to bless the people so that they would enjoy God’s favor, as the smile of a loving Father upon His children. In scriptural language, the light of God’s countenance is His expressions of favorable regards, His favor. I didn’t know that, when I was growing up. I just thought it was a nice way to end the worship service. But the choir was pronouncing God’s favor on worshippers. It has been a long time since I’ve heard a choir sing this blessing, but some days, I desperately desire the countenance of God’s favor, and wish it for others.

If, as the Beatles say, all you need is love and if, as the scripture says, God is love, is it possible to have authentic,  transforming, forgiving empowering, love without a relationship with God?

If you say you believe in God, you cannot not have love as your motivation and message in everything you say and do.

If you truly believe that all you need is love, and there truly is a God who is love, you cannot say a relationship with that God is optional.

Come into the Light by Glenn Gemmel

The Way to the Truth of Life

I am the way, the truth, and the life.  John 14:6 NLT

I am the only Road that leads to the destination of glory.

Convicted of sin, do a repentant U-turn and travel the King’s Highway.

Challenged by righteousness, set out to be like your Sinless Savior.

Convinced of judgment, make a conscious effort to prepare yourself.

My death on the cross paved the highway to the Father’s future.

My blood on your soul marks you as a child of God He will not disown.

Follow the Way—and be confident of reaching heaven.

I am the only Reality that defines goodness.

Lied to by the dark prince, turn a deaf ear to his brainwashing.

Led by the Spirit of truth, listen well and learn life’s greatest lessons.

Loved by the One knowing you best, stay near and enjoy My company.

My light liberates you to sing for joy in the Father’s freedom.

My Spirit in your mind teaches you truth you would not learn otherwise.

Learn the Truth—and be changed for good from the inside out.

I am the only Redeemer who distributes grace.

Attacked by the evil one, do not forget that he is a hateful killjoy.

Attracted by the Holy Spirit, surrender and know life in all its fullness.

Approved by the Father, revel in His love and rest assured of heaven.

My promise guarantees the bright tomorrow of the Father’s festival.

My melody in your heart instructs you in faith’s dance of joy.

Celebrate the Life—and be cheerful in all circumstances.

I am the Way to the Truth of Life.

Your search for heaven, significance, and vitality ends in My heart.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 323 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Sermons do a lot of things, but sermons don’t make disciples.

Here’s the dilemma: the church’s mission is to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:18-20). If sermons don’t make disciples, then how does the church fulfill its mission? If sermons don’t directly fulfill the church’s mission, then why is so much emphasis placed on the weekend worship service and the sermon?

What Do Sermons Do?

I’m a preacher. I have nothing against preaching. I take exception, however, in depending on preaching to accomplish what it cannot accomplish.

Sermons serve to inspire, inform, and motivate. People can come to Christ as a result of responding to a pastor proclaiming the Word of Truth. Preachers are brokers in hope. They can help people reframe their lives from a context of frustration and despair to embrace hope and God’s love. Sermons anointed by the power of the Holy Spirit are dynamic things that can make an impact. Yet, sermons don’t make disciples.

If discipleship was a uniform process or the mastery of a body of knowledge, then the information delivered in a sermon would certainly add to knowledge acquisition. But, that’s not what discipleship is. Disciples aren’t processed. They’re crafted.

How Do You Make Disciples?

Disciples make disciples. While much of Western Christianity has depended on the definition of a disciple as a student, then placed the student in a class and delivered thorough teaching, it has ended up with very educated, yet disobedient students. Here’s the proof: what they know is not adequately reflected in their attitudes and actions. I’m not building a case for perfectionism. But, I am a believer in the principle that what people truly believe is reflected in what they do. Or, put another way, “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17).

Now, I realize that some at this point will wonder if I am advocating some works-based approach to Christianity. This is where I’m going: if church-goers have no desire for the things of God, then I would question whether they truly belong to God. As Paul writes to the Philippians, “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:12-13). We don’t work for our salvation, but we work out our salvation because God is working in us.

If disciples aren’t merely students, then what are they? The word “disciple” is derived from several different words including follow and “to rub off on.” The model Jesus gave us was to spend 75 percent of His time with His disciples and 25 percent with the crowd. How much time is spent on the sermon? How much time is spent making disciples?

Why did Jesus spend such a disproportionate amount of time with a small group of people? Jesus knew how we learn. People learn by imitation, not instruction.

Who has been the most powerful influence in your life? For most people, they would say their parents. You act more like your parents than anyone else. After all, you could read a dozen books written by experts in marriage, yet your default is a marriage that more closely resembles your parents’ marriage than anything presented by the experts. (Depressing thought, huh?) Change requires intentional effort, committed support, and better models to imitate.

Paul challenged his followers to imitate him (1 Corinthians 4:16; 2 Thessalonians 3:9). Imitation requires transparency. Imitation requires time and attention. Disciples make disciples.

Why is the Sermon so Important Then?

Sermons can start something. A presentation of the Gospel can help someone start their relationship with Christ and their journey of discipleship. The sermon can lead a congregation to love their neighbors, to focus on the majesty of God, and to hold on to hope. But, the result of a sermon is not another sermon. The result of a sermon is a next step – make a decision, join a group, lead a mission, serve your neighbor, pray…you get it.

This is why I’m a big believer in alignment series and groups that help church-goers take their weekends into their weeks. The sermon can deliver a challenge, and the group can provide the support and accountability necessary to meet the challenge. The sermon by itself, however, is forgotten usually within 48 hours. If they can’t remember it, how are they supposed to do it? Groups help with this.

On any given weekend, pastors have the opportunity to lead a large portion of their congregations to take a step. The weekend service is the largest things a church does in any given week, but it’s not the most important thing they do. After all, sermons don’t make disciples. Disciples make disciples.

For most pastors, whether their churches are 100 people, 1,000 people, or 10,000+ people, would view the sheer scale of disciples making disciples as completely daunting. The key is to start small and multiply. Jesus invested in 12 disciples which multiplied over 2,000 years into some 2 billion people. If pastors invested in just eight people, and then those disciples made disciples within four years the church would have 4,096 disciples making disciples (8x8x8x8). Without disciples making disciples, pastors have audiences for their sermons.

Concluding Thoughts

Back in college a speaker challenged us to think about 5 sermons that influenced our lives for Christ. To be honest, most of us couldn’t come up with one – not even the sermon from last Sunday. Then, the speaker asked us to name 5 people who had influenced us for Christ. Those names immediately came to mind.

The key to discipleship is not a process or a proclamation. The key to discipleship is a disciple.

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Allen White helps Take the Guesswork Out of Groups. We offer books, online courses, coaching groups, and consulting.

You know these things—now do them! That is the path of blessing.

John 13:17 NLT

Reverence My path of authority—know and understand that I am Lord.

     My Father gave Me dominion over everything—I am Sovereign over all.

          I Am Who I Am—I Will Always Be Who I Have Always Been.

          I am Alpha and Omega, God’s Holy Alphabet—First Light, Last Word.

          To receive My blessing of peace, surrender to My absolute control.

     I came down from heaven to save the world—I am the Son of God.      

          I have always loved you and I always will—there is no greater comfort. 

          I am the Way to Truth of Life—the key to reality, wisdom, and eternity.

          To receive My blessing of optimism, believe I am who I say I am. 

Walk My path of action—practice daily the way of Life I teach you.

     I condescended to become a human being—and to live as a servant.

          Earthlings are intent on upward mobility—I model downward mobility. 

          The way up is down—Servant Path winds through neighborhood pain. 

          I went around doing good, so be careful that you do not just go around.

          Christianity is made for the road, not just for the church building.

          To receive My blessing of friendship, obey Me unquestioningly.

     I change you from inside out into My holy image—sanctifying your life. 

          Focus more on holiness than hygiene; value character above reputation.   

          Let Me wash your hands—let everything you do in your body honor Me.

          Let Me wash your head—let all you think with your mind please Me.

          Let Me wash your feet—let everywhere you go bless your soul.

          Stay on the path of everlasting life—avoid self-destructive detours.

          I give you a clear conscience, a joyful melody, and a buoyant step. 

          To receive My blessing of purity, plead for mercy and count on My love. 

Follow My path of affection—demonstrate to the world that I am Love. 

     By example I have shown you to be sympathetic. 

          The law to love equally is old—the order to love sacrificially is new.

          Loving neighbors is Old Testament—loving saints is New Testament. 

          Cry tears with the brokenhearted—let your heart care like I do.

          I proved My love on Skull Hill; now prove yours wherever you live.       

          To receive My blessing of fulfillment, learn to really care for others.

     Love people in My church—give the world a sign you are My disciple. 

          Don’t say you love the invisible God, if you don’t love visible humans. 

          The mark of genuine discipleship is love for those who walk in My steps.  

          To receive My blessing of purpose, help those walking the way with you. 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond;  Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Prayer changes things.
Prayer changes people.
Prayer changes situations.
Pray without ceasing.
You are the temple of the Holy Spirit.
(1Thess 5:17; 1 Cor 6:19).

As we celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend, I find myself thinking about what it takes for someone to be beautiful even in their old age. I’ve concluded there’s no better example than Sarah, the wife of Abraham and mother of Isaac.

In addition to being beautiful in her later years, Sarah also was fruitful and honoring – rare qualities indeed, especially in today’s world. Let’s look at how this was possible:

      BEAUTIFUL: If a woman is attractive in her youth, we often attribute it to genetics. But in order to be beautiful in old age, the source is usually the person’s attitude, character, and countenance.

In Genesis 20, we see Sarah as a beautiful woman nearing 90 years old – so attractive that King Abimelech attempted to take her as his wife! What a stunning and flabbergasting story. Wouldn’t any woman today want to look like that at age 90?

We know Sarah’s secret wasn’t Botox beauty, so it must have been something more. Somehow she developed an inner radiance that transcended her age.

Peter explained this when describing how Sarah remained so beautiful:

Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful (1 Peter 3:3-5 NLT).

Let’s be honest: Peter’s advice seems woefully out of step with the times in which we live.

• Beauty that comes from within? What a quaint idea!
• Unfading beauty, based on a woman’s spirit rather than her body or her attire? Much too idealistic!

However, this is exactly the kind of beauty Sarah displayed. Not only was it “precious to God,” but it also was appealing to people. While priceless, this rare beauty was something money couldn’t buy. In the midst of the trials, disappointments, transitions, and injustices of Sarah’s life, her joyful, peaceful countenance enabled her to remain gorgeous beyond her years.

      FRUITFUL: When Sarah overheard the angels tell Abraham she would bear him a son at age 90, she laughed. Wouldn’t you?

Then the Lord said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh? Why did she say, ‘Can an old woman like me have a baby?’ Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son” (Genesis 18:13-14 NLT).

Have you ever laughed at the promises God made to you? I bet you have, because His promises always require something more than your natural ability. Divine promises are worthless unless accompanied by divine enablement.

So notice: Although it’s wonderful that Sarah was beautiful in her senior years, don’t forget that God also supernaturally enabled her to be fruitful, bearing Isaac when she was 90. How does this apply to us? While there’s no guarantee our fruitfulness in life will include having children, it will always include having an impact on the lives of others.

That’s why I’m grieved whenever I meet elderly people who’ve given up on having an impact. Don’t they know someone they can share the Gospel with or encourage? Don’t they have children, grandchildren, or friends who could profit from their wisdom?

Look at what the psalmist said about this:

Those who are planted in the house of the Lord
Shall flourish in the courts of our God.
They shall still bear fruit in old age;
They shall be fresh and flourishing (Psalm 92:13-14 NKJV).

Although I don’t know how much longer I will live, I want to “still bear fruit in old age.” Even in my waning years, I hope I’ll remain “fresh and flourishing.”  

In the case of Sarah, her greatest “fruitfulness” didn’t occur until she was age 90. What a powerful lesson for us, encouraging us that our most meaningful impact may still be years ahead.

      HONORING: Peter’s description of Sarah includes another statement that is completely mind-blowing when applied to today’s culture:

Our “mother,” Sarah, devoted herself to her husband, Abraham, and even called him “master” (1 Peter 3:6 TPT).

At the moment, I’m not in the mood for a debate about marriage and gender roles, but instead I want to point out a larger principle here: Even in her old age, Sarah was still able to show honor, respect, and gratitude to her husband and others.

This is no small matter! If you took time to interview people at a retirement center, you would soon discover that there are two kinds of people there. Some are the sweetest, kindest people you would ever want to meet. They are full of stories about God’s goodness and the great life they’ve had. As they reflect on people they’ve known along the way – or on their current life in the retirement center – they express tremendous gratitude.

However, you’ll meet others who are cynical, bitter, and cranky in their old age. They will tell you endless stories of life’s injustice and the people who’ve done them wrong. Instead of showing honor and gratitude to those around them, they act as if they’re the center of the universe, entitled to have people serve them.

Sarah could have been like this second group. She had ample reason to be resentful toward her husband’s twists and turns, like the time he felt led to leave their homeland without any clear destination in sight! And how could she forgive his shenanigan in calling her his “sister” so the king wouldn’t kill him in order to take Sarah for himself?

Like Sarah, we all have choices to make about whether we will maintain a good attitude or bad attitude…express gratitude or grumble…honor others or harbor a critical spirit. Let us choose wisely!

My prayer is that we will be like Sarah – beautiful, fruitful, and honoring in our old age. And no matter what our current age might be, today is a great day to start cultivating those three wonderful qualities.

God bless America.  That is the poorest excuse for a prayer I’ve ever heard.

Americans bark out that demand hundreds of times every minute of every day.  That phrase has no humility.  That phrase has no confession of need.  That phrase offers no supplication.

Issuing this command to God is blasphemous. 

A proper prayer for God’s blessing would be, at a minimum, “God, please bless America.”

A more appropriate prayer would be, “God, we have pushed you to the sidelines.  You Remain there Waiting for us to ask for Your Help.  Please, God, Restore America’s heart for You.  Make our nation receptive once more to Your Divine Counsel.  Make us again a house that accepts Your Blessing.”

America began as a God fearing nation.  Now, as a nation, I fear much of America has no place for God—but still we demand His Blessing.  U.S. Presidents call for this blessing of America as if the powers of Commander in Chief extend to the heavens.

By its faith, America used to receive Divine answers to its problems.  Now Americans believe that they alone can divine all the necessary solutions.  How is that working out for us?

Repeating all the stories of chaos and discord is unnecessary.  No American can escape what is happening.

I believe in God: man not so much.  America, once of God, is now of man.

Thus, by faith, I can no longer pledge allegiance to America.  So I will offer a “Prayer for Allegiance.”

I pray Allegiance with the Lord,

whose Kingdom is in Heaven,

And with the Savior, His Only Son,

One God, in Three Persons, indivisible,

with Salvation for all who believe.

 May God forgive the United States of America.

My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.  John 10:10 NLT

I am the good Shepherd who faithfully leads you into tomorrow.

I know your geographical, emotional and spiritual coordinates. 

I walk ahead of you into the future—I already know what’s ahead.   

Nestle near My heart and learn to recognize My voice.

Trust Me and your cup will be brimming with blessing after blessing.

Use My map and discover beautiful, peace-and-quiet locations.                       

Wait for Me and receive strength to persevere through difficulty.

Hold My hand and experience poise even in Death Valley.

Depend on My security system and be safe and sound whatever happens. 

Enjoy the pleasure of My company and sing every heartbeat. 

Celebrate My unfailing love and rest assured, however you feel. 

Follow Me and find My way home.

I am the gracious Savior who loves you unconditionally.

How much do I love you?  I died to pay the penalty for your sins. 

No one forced Me to carry the cross to Skull Hill—I did it willingly.

My feet were pierced to forgive you of walking where you shouldn’t.

My hands were nailed to a cross to cleanse you of your evil deeds. 

I did not ride in a royal chariot—I trudged up a rough road.

I had no purple robe to wear—executioners gambled for My clothes. 

I had no golden scepter—I was beaten on the head with a stick. 

I received no homage—soldiers dropped to their knees in mock worship. 

Through it all, I loved you—I always have and I always will.

I am the great Sovereign who lives to give you abundant and eternal life.

You’ve given Me your heart and I’ve given you Mine—we’re inseparable.

The Devil is a vicious wolf out to kill your joy—avoid his detours.

Satan is a roaring lion trying to destroy your influence—be careful.

The Adversary is a liar bent on stealing your enthusiasm—stay zealous. 

Life in its fullness—better than you can dream—is something only I give.

I am the Way to the Truth of Life.

Without Me you can’t go to heaven, know reality, or really live!

With Me you can celebrate undying life, experience invulnerable joy,

     grow in courage and hope, and experience ecstatic freedom!

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Did Jesus ever make a prediction that turned out to be false? It certainly seemed so when He said upon hearing that His friend Lazarus was sick, “This sickness will not end in death” (John 11:4 NIV).  

If you know the story of Lazarus, you remember that his sickness did indeed result in death. In fact, by the time Jesus arrived on the scene, his friend had already been in the tomb for four days.

Not only was Lazarus dead, but the situation had already become stinky. “By this time there is a bad odor,” Martha reported to Jesus (v. 39).

At first glance, people could have concluded that Jesus had simply been wrong. Despite His prediction to the contrary, the illness of Lazarus had obviously ended in death.

But this was not end of Lazarus’ story. Yes, if we would have put the movie on pause at this point, we would have assumed that death was the final scene – but that was not the END.

There is a profound and life-changing lesson here – especially if you’re dealing with circumstances that seem disappointing or smelly.

No matter how dire your present circumstances may look, when Jesus is on the scene they aren’t the end of the story. Mirroring His words in John 11, I encourage you to declare today that the ending of your present story will be God’s glory and your restoration.

• Has your marriage or an important relationship fallen apart? This is not the end!
• Have you suffered a devastating financial setback? This is not the end!
• Are you disappointed by choices your children or grandchildren are making? This is not the end!
• Are you frustrated by lingering health issues? This is not the end!
• Do you feel spiritually unfruitful, craving a life of greater impact? This is not the end!
• Have you prayed persistent prayers that still remain unanswered? This is not the end!

When I read the story of Lazarus, I’m struck by how Jesus disregarded the request of Martha and Mary to come and heal their brother. At first, this may seem calloused or even mean. However, Jesus had a very good reason for ignoring their request for a healing: He wanted to give Lazarus a resurrection!

So if you’re frustrated by some unanswered prayer today, consider that God may want to do something much greater for you than you’ve been asking (Ephesians 3:20).

We see this same principle in Luke 5:1-11, where the fishermen had worked hard all night and caught nothing. They probably would have been satisfied with just an ordinary catch of fish, but Jesus wanted to do something far greater for them – something EXTRAORDINARY.

To their surprise, the frustrating efforts of these fishermen were not the end of the story. The night had seemed destined to end in failure, but a miracle catch of fish was right around the corner when they followed Jesus’ instructions.

Although it may not sound very manly of me, I’ve grown to enjoy Hallmark movies. There’s not really much suspense, because you know from the beginning of every story that there will be a happy ending. Despite many ups and downs along the way, the main characters are destined to live happily ever after.

Friend, I don’t know how your story is looking at the moment. But I do know this: God is planning a happy ending for you. Your present circumstances are not the END, so don’t give up on the movie until it reaches its conclusion.

I encourage you to face your disappointing circumstances head on today and declare through faith in God’s faithfulness: THIS IS NOT THE END!

Then Hezekiah encouraged them with this address:

“Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid of the king of Assyria or his mighty army.

There is a power far greater on our side! He has a great army, but they are just men.

We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!”

These words greatly encouraged the people.

2 Chronicles 32:6b-8 NLT

            Encircled by invisible armies, the Greatest Power is on your side. Stand proudly with spineless wimps turned into steel-backboned warriors. Feeling powerless, recall the truth not by force nor by strength, but by My Spirit. Feeling weak-kneed, trustingly don My armor.

            Sometimes you feel “where never is heard a discouraging word” is only a dreamy Utopia. Despair and pessimism are rampant. Bad news is all you ever hear. Futurists have little optimistic to predict.

            Tired of negativism? Bow before the plus sign of the cross.     When it seems discouraging words are all you ever hear, turn to My Word. Take a walk through the New Testament and revel in transforming truths.

             I am your Travel Companion. Earth’s saddest day and gladdest day were just three days apart. My story captivates you and cheers you on. My Spirit brings peace in pandemonium. Christ’s return gives reason for living until paradise is restored. In the darkness, dawn approaches. You are a victor, not a victim. You enjoy freedom, not shackles. Your Heavenly Father cares for you, His child. Prayer opens the window to   infinite resources. Christ unlocks the secret to surviving every situation. Unimaginable glory is waiting just around the corner. I am the Eternal Optimist—you can be too.    My Son came to planet Earth to solve your biggest problem—guilt. I grant power for living, love for your relationships, and self-discipline for spiritual development. I am your Blessed Hope. Active sharing of faith’s perspective helps you to grow up in Christ. At the throne of prayer, find mercy for your sins and grace for your struggles. A humble attitude ensures help from the Almighty. Trust causes joy beyond words. Internalizing My Word purifies you from moral filth. In Jesus, there is certainty in all circumstances. Count on Unchanging Truth. Enjoy the pleasure of My company 24/7. I am your Source of eternal security. The United Kingdom is on the way.

            Take this walk often—My Encouraging Word will lift your spirit.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 175 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

It was a sad morning. Several months ago, our neighbors were re-located to a memory care facility. Their three sons had come and gone, taking what they wanted out of the house, then turning it over to an auction company. On the morning of the auction, the auctioneers waited inside, as the crowds began to gather. Eventually, my wife and I walked over to observe the “estate sale.” As we bumped and maneuvered our way through the crowded rooms of the house, we saw strangers taking priceless possessions – paintings from the walls, coffee mugs from the cabinets, clothes from the closets, tools from the garage – things with value beyond money. I purchased a baseball cap and Joanne bought a flower vase, simple reminders of our friendship with this couple, who no longer remembered many of the details related to their possessions. When we left, I commented as to the sadness of the situation, realizing that the longer we live, the more apt we all are to reach this point – when “the things of earth grow strangely dim.” It causes me to weep. I like my possessions. They have personal, priceless, sometimes private meanings. I know that someday I will need to release them – a few things to family, most things to the crowds, perhaps some things to the trash can. And I will weep again. When I reach that day, someone please remind me of Psalm 30:5 – “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” – an eternal morning with no auctioneers waiting outside.

Peace be with you.

John 20:19

I give you poise in earth’s scary situations.

There is no need to be intimidated by people—they are mere mortals.

I am your Omnipotent Helper, so do not let fear get the best of you.

I whispered stars into existence—I know their names and yours too.

I will never leave you—My Presence is your failsafe security system.

Every heartbeat, step, and season of your life—I am with you.

I give tough shoes for rough roads—I am your Equilibrium Equation.

Rely on the Almighty to see you through trouble—find true serenity.

I give you pardon in your guilty struggles.

Religious rituals are futile—My blood is the way to forgiveness.

Grace is your only hope of removing guilt’s oppressive burden.

Self-talk does not ease doubt—My Spirit is your assurance of heaven.

Listen to your Shepherd’s voice and rest assured.

Let Me calm your heart—experience the tranquility of inner-stances.

When I make Myself at home in your heart, you can rest easy.

I give you My promise all will be well in your uncertain tomorrows.

I live in the eternal now—I Am Who I Have Been and Who I Will Be.

Call Me Rabboni, your very own Teacher—follow Me into the future.

My heart is your unassailable fortress—a restful home.

Trust My Word and know supernatural composure facing eternity.

Keep faith in your Invisible Means of Support—be an eternal optimist.

You cannot know how faith in an Unseen One brings ecstasy,

     but do not let your lack of understanding stifle your enthusiasm.

There is no need to go around wringing your hands—

     take My wounded hand, confident you can trust Me.

I will bless you with peace of mind nothing can disturb.

My supernatural gift is the secret of peace.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 325 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Over the past 18 months I have had the distinct privilege of helping to direct a national outreach initiative called Saturate USA. The ministry of Christ for All Peoples, due to the benevolence of some major investors, was able to supply Gospel resources to thousands of local churches to bring the message of Jesus to homes and apartments in their communities.

It was a divinely inspired move of God that resulted in millions of Jesus DVDs, Gospel tracts and participating church information beings distributed in cities from coast to coast. More information is available at www.SaturateUSA.org.

In my role, I was blessed to work with local churches in ten different cities representing the diversity of the body of Christ in America. I spoke to several large gatherings of pastors and directly with over 1,000 pastors. What a rich experience it was to work with so many churches interested in taking Gospel responsibility for their local mission field and seeding the Good News into every household in their ‘Jerusalem.’

Churches in cities as large as New York and Los Angeles, to small town rural America, were mobilized and resourced to reach their communities. They had one thing in common – they were participants in a simple evangelism outreach.

The reports back from the churches were, for the most part, a testimony of God at work. Recently, in a meeting in Cleveland, one pastor gave testimony that her church saw eleven new baptisms as a result of their outreach. Another church in northern Idaho gave testimony to three “dechurched ex-pastors” returning to church and becoming new members. A church in Deland, Florida saw 50 ‘decision for Christ’ in just two weeks. There are many other such reports.

Many pastors have described the personal renewal of their members and revitalization of their churches that has taken place as they left the building and went out into their communities. One report from Houston described how volunteer numbers doubled on their second outreach due to the excitement generated by their first. Another expressed new enthusiasm for outreach in their church that had not previously been involved in an evangelism outreach.

One pastor shared with me that he had tried for four years to get his people to share their faith with little success. But then he found out about the simple outreach offered by Saturate USA and his people got excited. They completed reaching every home in their zip code and are now expanding their mission field to the next.

From my experience with Saturate USA, I want to make four observations:

• Believers are receptive to evangelism outreach when the model is kept simple. Most Christians do not regularly share their faith with others out of fear and uncertainty of what to say. When equipped with simple tools and a simple model, people who have never shared their faith will participate.
• Churches are ready to participate when resourced for the task of evangelism. Who can turn away a free gift of Gospel resources sufficient to reach their immediate community? Good luck trying to sell a pastor a supply of Gospel materials. I have tried. But given the opportunity to take advantage of free resources, many will respond enthusiastically. No judgment here just an observation.
• People are responsive to the simple Gospel gift delivered to their door. Some may question the efficacy of the distribution model but the results speak for themselves. Additionally, with but a few exceptions, most people receive the Gospel gift with at least an appreciation for the effort. We heard repeatedly that people were friendly and welcoming, with very few exceptions.
• Divine encounters happen when the Church leaves the building. One of the best stories I have heard in the past year is of a team walking down a neighborhood street and encountering a young lady sprawled out on her front lawn weeping. She was planning on committing suicide that day. The team ministered the love of Christ and left this young lady rejoicing in the Lord.

I believe that Saturate USA represents a “first wave” of God’s moving in our day to thrust the workers out into the harvest field. The Lord providentially removed all the barriers to enable pastors and their congregations to get out into the waiting harvest.

Is more necessary beyond material distribution? Of course. When I spoke to pastors over the past year, I would refer to 1 Corinthians 3:6 where Paul tells us that he planted the Gospel seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. Paul describes a simple process.

I am reminded of Luke 10:9 where Jesus gives two very simple instructions to the 72 disciples. Jesus tells them to go heal the sick and tell them the “Kingdom of God has come near.” They were to demonstrate God’s power and presence where they were welcomed. But in order to find out where that was, they needed to visit an unknown number of households. There was no thirteen-week training program, no expectations yet for more. They were given a simple task and the power to complete it.

My experience tells me that we make a mistake when we set the bar too high for the average believer to participate in evangelism. When we emphasize training, equipping and disciple-making we set a high bar that we expect people to jump over. The majority are not ready. However, give them a simple task and watch the number of volunteers increase greatly. Many people want to be involved in evangelism when given a simple opportunity. Then they overcome their fears and are excited to do more.  

One comment I heard often from pastors after their distribution and their members had returned from the outreach was, “Pastor, this was fun, can we do more!” I would suggest to these pastors that now their people were ready to be trained. Likewise, Jesus’ disciples returned from their simple outreach filled with joy. (Luke 10:17). Those same disciples then changed the world.

The K.I.S.S. principles works. Keep it simple, Saints! That is if you are a pastor who wants to see more of his people excited about and involved in the task of evangelism. Then they can change their neighborhood and maybe the world too.

Were not our hearts greatly moved

and burning within us while He was talking with us

on the road as He opened and explained to us the sense of the Scriptures?

Luke 24:32 THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE

Saddened by emptiness?

Obey Me, and I will make Myself real to you.

Trade a long face for a smile—be a good advertisement for the gospel.

I am your Source of Music—sing out for the entire world to hear.

Entombed by loneliness?

You are never alone—I walk alongside you on every road you travel.

When perplexing cares crowd your heart, I console and cheer you.

I am your Greatest Friend—you have not lost Me, so dance for joy.

Afraid of death?

Hear My reassuring voice and overcome Satan-coaxed anxiety.

Death Valley terror disappears as you realize shadows mean Light.

I am your Life—I will defeat all enemies, so count on ultimate victory.

Losing hope?

Open the eyes of your heart and envision My promised bright future.

Wait patiently for My new world to materialize—be brave-hearted.

I am your Center of Gravity—hide in Me and unflinchingly trust.

Perplexed by despair?

Guilt, death, hopelessness, angst, and gloom burden your heart.

Grace, vitality, hope, faith, mercy, and freedom bless your heart.

I am your Redeemer—hang on for dear life—all is well.

Walk life’s road with Me—and I will change dejection to delight,

     skepticism to optimism, despair to hope, restlessness to tranquility,

     depression to ecstasy, self-pity to praise, and doubt to worship.

I am your God—rest assured.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 319 Gentle Whispers from Eternity