You cannot be in two places at once, nor can you support opposing forces or views at the same time. It becomes a matter of selecting what we think or believe is best for us. We have a choice Sunday mornings; we can assemble with the Saints, go fishing, or sleep in, but we cannot do all three at the same time. I can believe the Bible’s teaching about Jesus, the Muslim’s view of Jesus, or deny Him altogether, but I cannot believe all three at once.

Choices often present themselves as either/or moments because we cannot have or do both. Perhaps it is a lack of time or a scheduling conflict that makes us choose. Maybe the choices are so different and opposing they cannot be done together. For whatever reason, we all have frequently been in this position.

I also doubt any of us can remember the first time we had to pick between this and that. It usually happens early in life when parents tell us “no”. They began by teaching us about life’s dangers, right from wrong, and how to make good choices. Do you recall the first time your dad or mom said, “Don’t touch; it’s hot!” or “Tell me the truth?” Most likely not, but their early efforts helped mold who you are today.

Did you ever want two candy bars or toys and dad said, “Pick one”? His answer was not about danger or right and wrong, and it was not even about showing you who is boss. It was a chance for him to teach you something about willpower and the fact you cannot always have everything you want.

The Bible is a book about right and wrong choices, and they all come down to either serving God or Satan. It began when God gave Adam and Eve law and then the Devil came along and said something different. As a result they had to choose between doing right (Divine Will) or wrong (Satan’s will). Sadly, they made the wrong choice, and from now every responsible person has sinned against God by disobeying Him. As Paul said, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

We also know we cannot go back and reverse a decision or its fallout once it is made. Can a drunk driver undo the harm he caused in an accident? Can you take back hurtful words and outbursts of anger? We may have to live with the physical results of our sins, just as David did when he took another man’s wife.

As devastating as earthly results can be, the real and lasting toll is what sin does to us spiritually. It separates us from God, makes us the servants Satan, and no matter what we do we still are unprofitable. Think about it for a moment, in sin, one has no hope or enduring value. Even if we can do a few good deeds to help in an earthly way, they do nothing to aid us eternally. It is the idea of once lost always lost, if we do not have help from a higher power than us. Thankfully, God gives us a second change to get it right.

We need to pay attention to what God says about good and bad choices by looking to the Bible for His Help. Joshua told Israel to “choose this day whom you will serve”, and they had two basic choices. They could either follow the Lord who had delivered them or the idols of people whom they had conquered. The choice should have been easy since God had done so much for them, but they often choose poorly.

Is it any different today between God and man? God tells us what He wants us to do, He warns and encourages us to make the right decisions, and yet most turn their back on Him (Matt. 7:13-14). Some reject or corrupt His message by not believing in and following the Bible (John 12:48). The Lord has done so much for us there is no excuse to turn against Him, but unfortunately many do so anyway.

Time and again God warns us about the many ways in which choosing is between right and wrong. Jesus said “You cannot serve God and money” (Matt. 6:24) and He also stated “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matt. 6:31-33). There is also a choice between family and God as seen by the Lord’s remarks in Matt. 10:34-39. Some love the praise of men more than the praise of God (John 12:43) and others want earthly pleasure more than the joy of heaven (2 Tim. 3:1-6). It makes no sense for us to reject God’s second chance to do right by turning our back on Christ or by choosing sin over righteousness (Rev. 21:8).

Terry Starling

Psalm 34

When David was a fugitive and King Saul was trying to kill him, David often found himself in very difficult situations. On one occasion, we might say that he was “between a rock and a hard spot”. David had fled, from the land held by Israel, and had gone into the land of the Philistines to the city of Gath. David, who had been a deadly enemy of the Philistines for years, was exposed to the great danger of being recognized and killed. David’s fears were realized, because he was recognized by the servants of the king of Gath! To escape from certain death, David pretended to be insane. In disgust the king of Gath, Abimelech, had him thrown out of the city. His successful escape may have been the reason for David writing Psalm 34.

Obviously, we have not faced the same kind of situation that David faced in Gath, but we have found ourselves in very bad situations. We have also felt like we were “between a rock and a hard spot”! Sometimes, like David, we were able to get out of the situation that we faced. When that happened, as we relaxed in relief, what did we do? Well, we know what David did. He wrote a psalm of thanksgiving to God for his deliverance.

Unfortunately, too many Christians only turn to God when the trials of life get especially bad. Many view prayer as the “last resort”. Once the problems are gone, the need for prayer also disappears. But we must pray without ceasing. Every moment of our waking thoughts must include the continuous awareness of God and our dependence upon Him.

The motive behind the writing of Psalm 34 is important, but what David wrote also includes many important thoughts. In verse 6 David wrote, “This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him; and saved him out of all his troubles”. In this verse, the humility of David shines forth. There he was a strong man, a successful warrior, a popular leader, and one anointed by Samuel. However, David knew that his strength and success came from God, and not from his own abilities.

From the realization of his dependence upon the Lord, he went forward to do the Lord’s will. What a lesson for Christians to follow today! Pride has been the downfall of too many capable Christians. Christian growth and maturity does not mean growing to the point that we don’t need God, or to feel that we are more “spiritual” than someone else. On the contrary! Maturity involves a growing and living dependence upon the Father, and a growing compassion for others. With God, all things are possible. Even though he made serious mistakes, David loved God with a reverential fear; and God blessed him. As Christians do the same thing today, great things begin to happen!

In verse 8 David wrote, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.” This is one of the real treasures of this psalm. God’s Plan of Redemption, the Word of God, and the offer of salvation in Christ are not things to be placed upon a pedestal. Faith in the Bible has never been based on unthinking obedience. Many totalitarian governments have demanded unquestioning obedience, but no one should blindly follow the scriptures. When the words of the Bible are from God, there is no fear that a mistake will be found, or something will be shown to be untrue. David urged his readers to “Taste and see…” Study and apply.

In addition, the teachings of the New Testament scriptures are not limited to a building on Sunday and Wednesday. God’s plan and instructions are intended for the job, school, family problems, defeats and victories. The more we taste and experience God and His Word, the more that we find that word to be essential for the day to day problems that ALL of us face. For any Christian, and for the Lord, the most beautiful thing in the world is a Bible worn out from study and use!

“Taste and see…” All a person has to do is look at people’s lives that are guided by the Bible and love the Lord. Then look at people’s lives that have no consideration of God. Every person begins as a small new born infant. Yet, look at the differences as people mature and make decisions. Look at nations that have been adamant in the rejection of God and His will. Look at the path was taken. Look at the suffering of the people. Look at the lack of hope. Yes indeed, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”

In verses 9-10, David wrote, “O fear the LORD, you His saints; for to those who fear Him there is no want. The young lions do lack and suffer hunger; but they who seek the LORD shall not be in want of any good thing.” The Old and New Testaments speak of a “fear” of the Lord. For His people, especially today for Christians, that attitude is one of reverence, love, and an appreciation of the power and majesty of God. It is very much like the child-like love and trust that a child has toward his/her Father and Mother. This “fear of the Lord” leads to a desire, a willingness, to please and serve Him. The result leads to spiritual strength, spiritual focus, and spiritual peace.

In verse 10, David wrote, “The young lions do lack and suffer hunger.” Young lions are at the peak of their power and abilities, but that does not guarantee success. Likewise, personal ability, strength, financial stability will never guarantee success in achieving any kind of lasting spiritual peace and hope. That only comes in the right relationship with the Living God and Father. David wrote in verses 13-14, “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.  Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” Good instruction for any age.

In verses 17 and 19 David wrote, “The righteous cry out and the Lord hears them . . . a righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” Notice that the righteous will face problems. When they do happen, the righteous automatically turn to the Lord.

The Lord has never promised a trouble-free life for His people. That is why a constant, personal relationship with the Father, and His Son Jesus Christ, is so crucial. David’s strength and his success were directly linked with His God. How much more is that true for God’s children?

Jim Shelburn

Have you ever thought about how many, so called, Christian faiths cannot use the Bible to support even their “core” beliefs? It is because plain Bible teaching disagrees with their ideas and so they must go to some catechism, creed, or church ruling for backing. I have also noticed many church members just believe and do what they want to regardless of what “their” church says.

Sadly, more and more religious people do not care what the Bible says or either they view it as just an outdated suggest guide. Others deny the Bible is God’s final revelation and believe God is still speaking to them. If you doubt this, just consider what today’s churches teach and what people believe.

1) Some teach and practice infant baptism (sprinkling or pouring water over the head of a baby).

What does the Bible say about infant baptism? The answer is nothing, it never mentions the subject. However, what it says about baptism excludes infants from the act. Notice what babies cannot do that must occur before baptism. One must believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Acts 8:36-38) and repent (Acts 2:38) before baptism. In addition, it comes after understanding and responding to the gospel. (Acts 2:37) No young child can do any of these.

Know also that sprinkling and pouring are not baptism because to baptize means to immerse. Just as you cannot immerse someone by sprinkling a little water on them, neither can you baptism them by the same. I also wonder why some in the Bible went down into the water and/or came up out of the water if sprinkling or pouring would have done just fine. (Acts 8:38-39 & Matt. 3:16)

2) Some say baptism is not for the forgiveness of sins and is not necessary for salvation.

They would not tell people to do the same as Peter did when he said. “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins….” (Acts 2:38) Many churches would never support Peter words in 1 Peter 3:21, “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you….” Neither would they say we are “baptized into Christ Jesus….” (Rom. 6:3)

Instead, we might hear from them about the “sinner’s prayer”, but what is this prayer? You will not find the answer in the Bible because it never mentions the “sinner’s prayer.” If you want to know something about this prayer, then you have to go to some preacher or creed to explain its meaning. The reason you must go outside the Bible to hear anything about the “sinner’s prayer” is because it is not from God.

3) Some discuss, debate, and even change moral standards based on popular opinion.

They do not dare read from Romans one about the sin of homosexuality, nor do they want to talk about how all illicit sexuality is wrong before God. (1 Cor. 6:9) Tell people to not have sex before marriage is not popular these days. Many faiths just do not talk about God’s Will for marriage or they relax what Jesus taught about divorce and remarriage. (Matt. 5:31-31 & Matt. 19:2-9)

You might hear people talk about their Christian faith in one breath and getting drunk in another. They probably do not care much about what 1 Peter 3:4 says. I have heard preachers and members bemoan lying and then defend the idea of “little white” lies. I guess John’s words about how “all liars… will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur” does not mean too much to them. (Rev. 21:8)

We could go on for a while and use much space to show the many ways churches and religious people disrespect God’s Word. What you hear from many pulpits is nothing more than man’s invention. My challenge to everyone who reads this article is to test your faith against God’s revealed Will. If you assemble with a group that cannot give Bible answers for their beliefs and practices then it is time to change.

Terry Starling

In many of David’s psalms can be seen the deep anguish that he felt as he wrestled with the problems and trials of life. One reason that the psalms are so precious is that they address the entire spectrum of human emotions and pain. Any person of any age can find comfort, because it’s clear that David, and the other psalmists, had “been there” and could understand. There is comfort in knowing that someone has traveled a hard path first and made it. Added to that is the inspiration behind his words. Without that certainty, David’s words would have been no more useful than the hundreds of “self-help” books that can be found in stores today.

But in contrast, Psalm 32 can only be described as a psalm of thanksgiving. In fact, “thanksgiving” is not strong enough! A better term would be “JOYOUS!” The reason for David’s joy was his understanding that the Lord had pardoned his sin. To know that sins are forgiven is indeed a time to rejoice. David begins his psalm by stating, “How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered!  How blessed is the man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit!” One man wrote that the New Testament scriptures are a commentary of Psalm 32; and in a very real sense, that is true.

Christians today have an assurance of forgiveness that David could only know through hints in the Old Testament scriptures, and through his own strong trust in the Lord. Today, Christians do live by faith and not by sight, but that faith is based upon a greater revealing of God’s plan. Paul Christ and the “Good News” that in Him can be found the hope of eternal life. Consider this. If David could feel and express his joy over pardoned sins based upon what he knew about God’s plan, how much more should Christians today be able to rejoice!

As David considered his joy, his thoughts turned back to his state before he felt the release of God’s forgiveness. “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in heat of summer.” Guilt can be a heavy burden for anyone. Most people can remember doing something wrong as a child and feeling the weight of guilt and dread as they wondered when their parents would find out.

That same weight exists for those with unforgiven sin. In many cases, the origin of depression is real, or imagined, guilt. David had experienced that, but then the weight was suddenly removed! How many people have said, “I’m glad that’s over!”, or “I feel like a big weight has been removed!” In Christ, the weight of sin is removed, and the child of God begins to walk the path that leads to spiritual maturity, and even greater blessings.

In verse 6, David wrote, “Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to You in a time when You may be found; surely in a flood of great waters they will not reach him.” Christians are expected to search, to reach out to the Lord. It just makes sense. If a person truly loves the Lord, and entrusts his/her life to Him, then the automatic reaction to anything in life is to turn to God. And God will answer. How many storms and floods of life have been avoided, because of the Lord?

In verse 7, David looked at what the Lord had given him from another direction. “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble…” As he faced the trials in his life, David instinctively turned to the Lord for help and a place of refuge. Oh, how God’s children need to remember that lesson today! Too often the Lord is the last place that people will turn to when facing trials. But Christians do have a special “hiding place”, and that place, just like David, is the Lord.

When Jesus said that Christians are to become as little children, that included the instinctive unconditional trust in the ability of God the Father to protect His children. Most adults can remember when they had a special “hiding place” as a child. That place may have been found in the imagination of the child, or more often in the arms of that child’s mother or father. How many times have we smiled at a little boy or girl who has seen something scary, and immediately turns around and heads for Momma or Daddy? Then from the place of safety that child peers around Mommy or Daddy’s legs. That is the type of attitude that Christians can have – the feeling of never being alone and knowing that the Father is always there.

In verse 8, God Himself is speaking, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you. Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding, whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check, otherwise they will not come near to you.” God gave every grown man and woman the intelligence to listen, consider, and decide on actions that will be taken in life. Willful ignorance is no excuse before the law, and it is certainly no excuse before the Eternal God.

Skeptics question the value of the Bible. They point to Christians who still have to deal with tragedy and other trials of life. But the key is that no one knows what hardship has been missed, what suffering has been avoided, due to the Lord’s direction. “Many are the sorrows of the wicked…” Outward trappings of success have never been a guarantee of inward peace, contentment, confidence, and trust. The path of life is strewn with traps that will snare the naïve, the unbelieving, and the rebellious.

But as Christians, we will never grow strong or overcome trials by ourselves. Our strength comes directly from God. David recognized that, and he ended his song of joy with, “Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart.” Yes. Christians should echo that today, because in Christ, God has showered down upon His children blessings that are infinite in number. God wants us to pray to Him in time of need, but Psalm 32 also reminds us that prayers of rejoicing and “Thank you” are also very much in order.

Jim Shelburn

Wandering Sheep in Our Midst

“Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.” James 5:19-20

Many of us tend to think that the only members who wander from the truth are the ones who have left the church. I would certainly agree with that conclusion, but I would like to offer a couple of ways that a Christian can wander from the truth while in the midst of the Lord’s church. Proverbs 5:13-14 shows us that this person does exist. “I have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined my ear to those who instructed me! I was on the verge of total ruin, in the midst of the assembly and congregation.” Is it possible for a member who knows God’s truth and hears the same sermons that we hear, to wander away from that truth? Yes. The Lord warned the Israelites of this very thing in Deuteronomy 29:18-19. He tells them that it is sinful for a man to hear God’s word and rebel against it. This person would even say to himself, “I shall have peace, even though I follow the dictates of my heart.”

A sheep can wander from the flock and its Shepherd while in the midst of the flock. This wandering away is a condition of the heart. Consider a few ways that this might happen to us, and how we can tell if we have become a wandering sheep. One way that I have seen this happen in the church is when a member becomes convinced that everyone is failing in their service to God except for them. “You’re all hypocrites” or “the elders aren’t doing their job” or “the preacher needs to bring tougher lessons” is often said by such a person. While these statements might be true, there is a godly way to handle situations such as these. This brother or sister needs to understand their role in helping the hypocrite, elders, preacher, and whoever else might need correction. If you have a complaint or a concern with a member of the church, examine your heart before you deal with these issues. The Bible plainly teaches that we are to love one another and give preference to one another (Romans 12:9-16). The Biblical solution for dealing with a brother or sister in sin can be found in Galatians 6:1-2. “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Where is your heart?

Another way that a brother in Christ can wander from the truth while in the assembly is by having a heart like Diotrephes. 3 John 9 tells us that this man loved to have the preeminence among those in the church. This type of person usually has a strong personality and a likeable character. He is a natural leader but he has usurped the authority that belongs to Christ. He is also working contrary to God’s will when he does not receive the brethren and he is forbidding those who wish to. This man does not see that he is in sin. “I shall have peace, even though I follow the dictates of my own heart.” Deuteronomy 29 tells us that there is a reason for this man’s delusion. A root bearing bitterness has grown up in his heart. Hebrews 12:14-15 says, “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;”

Can a member of the Lord’s church be a wandering sheep while in the midst of the flock? If so, how do we follow the admonition in James 5:19-20 and bring that person back? We are to restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. If we know that a member has wandered from the truth because of a hardness of heart, Pharisaical judgment, or having the spirit of Diotrephes, we must strive to help that person recognize their sin and deal with it in a godly way. As Christians, we know the value that God has placed on every soul (Mark 8:36). Remember, “If he hears you, you have gained your brother.”

Danny Simmons
A Little Compassion Please

Compassion is the deep feelings of sympathy and sorrow we have for another’s trouble, accompanied by a longing to help. Jesus is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, in part, because He suffered like we do. (Heb. 4:15) He also did something about our greatest troubles by offering Himself for our sins. (1 Peter 2:24)

Should we not be able to give compassion for the same reason? (Col. 3:12-15) All of us go through hard and difficult times. We suffer heartache and illness and we know what it is like to need someone to lean upon. (2 Cor. 1:8-11) If we know what it is like to need a little compassion, and we all do, then why would we be so harsh and uncaring not to give a little ourselves?

Most problems could be solved and much of this world’s hatred and meanness would disappear if we were more compassionate people. If we all give a little compassion, the world will be a better place. It is not easy, but we must purpose to be kind and caring in our treatment of others.

Terry Starling

During the 1980s, a brother engaged in research asked me to locate the grave of John T. Poe, gospel preacher of the late 1800s, in Longview, Texas. When I phoned brother Hedge, he said, “Yes, I know where he is buried and I also knew him in person. I was a very young man at the time that brother Poe was in his eighties.” The tombstone read: “John T. Poe; b., 30 August 1836; d., 23 December 1917.” At one corner of the flat tombstone was a marker labeled, “C.S.A.” John T. Poe was severely wounded at the Civil War battle of Glorieta Pass in New Mexico in March 1862, but survived both his wounds and Union captivity, before being paroled back to Texas. He was always a seeker of truth.

After the Civil War, he kept up his Bible study until he discovered that baptism is essential to salvation. It wasn’t long before he was defending the truth against the popular doctrine of “Once Saved Always Saved.” People recognized his ability to speak and defend the truth, and he was called upon to fill pulpits in the East Texas region. Like the apostle Paul’s tent-making, John T. Poe was a watchmaker by trade, but a preacher of the Word for the rest of his life.

As we stood at the grave, brother Hedge told me a story that has been burned indelibly into my mind. Brother Poe was preaching a sermon against the use of instrumental music in worship. It was a heated controversy among churches of Christ in the late 1800s. As the audience departed the building, a man walked up to brother Poe and spit in his beard. Brother Poe retrieved a handkerchief and cleaned it off. Then looking intently at the man, he said, “I wish I could wipe the sin from your heart as easily as I wiped the spittle from my beard.”

I can think of a lot of responses I would have made to that brother, but the nobility of brother Poe’s response isn’t among them. My first reaction would be the satisfying sound of a fist crunching a nose. But if we are truly Jesus’ disciples, we will, like Brother Poe, aim for the heart and not the flesh.

Love does no harm to his neighbor (Rom 13:10). It is a noble sentiment, but hard to do when someone spits in your face. We must not repay evil for evil (Rom 12:17). Rather, we are to set our minds on doing what is noble and praiseworthy in the sight of all men. All men looking on and judging can see the superiority of brother Poe’s response to the baser instincts of our desires. When Paul commanded “give thought” in v17, the Greek word can be rendered “think beforehand.” Our minds must be made up before the heat of the moment arrives. If not, our fists are likely to do the talking instead of a disciple’s heart.

All men cannot be lived with peaceably. But the commandment regards that which we control: our minds and actions. We cannot control others, but we must control ourselves. Our words and deeds can escalate tensions, or they can calm situations and gain the thoughtful hearts of others. We must be peace-makers (Matt 5:9), not merely “peace-wishers.” We must be “peace-doers.” And that means we will not avenge ourselves when we are hurt by others because that is God’s arena, and His alone, to mete out vengeance. We tend to go too far and exact several pounds of flesh. We must “give place” to Him to work out justice in His righteous wrath.

Remember the example of Jesus (1 Pet 2:23)! Remember, too, that we are to help save the world. Our selfish reaction in the heat of anger can do such harm to the cause of Christ that we will never gain the salvation of the recipients of our vengeance. I shudder to think of how many ill words and worse actions have been aimed by me against those who have injured me. I will never be able to gain their good-will again so that they might hear the saving gospel. By my vengeance they may have concluded that the God I affirm to follow is like me!

We are to actively influence our enemies for good. We are to relieve their thirst and hunger (v20), these being fundamental to life’s existence. By implication, any lesser necessities are ours to serve as well. In so doing, we will “heap burning coals on our enemy’s head” (Prov 25:21-22).

I think it wrong to see this as an allegorical metaphor for our enemy’s “burning shame and remorse.” “That is simply a more refined form of revenge” (James D.G. Dunn). Paul doesn’t mean for us to delight in doing good to our enemies so we can think “Boy, I heaped burning coals on his head that will make him squirm from now to next Tuesday.” The Targum of this Proverb adds after this curious phrase: “and God will hand him over to you, or will make him your friend.” The phrase was to be understood as a beneficial act. A clear and abrupt change of mind is brought about by an act of love. Let us not be conquered by evil. The present tense verb calls for dedicated persistence to this noble end. Like brother Poe, let us live with a disciple’s heart and not by our fists.

Chuck Durham / Twin City church of Christ

The title to this article is a well-known rule among carpenters and craftsmen. I recall seeing this in action when Bobby Schultz helped build my parents’ house. He did some of the framing in the basement. He would measure the length of the space, either write it down or say it out loud, and then put his measuring tape in his pocket. He would then again measure the space. If the numbers were different he would measure a third time. If the measure was the same then he would cut the board. I don’t recall Bobby having to re-cut a board or throw one away.

This got me to thinking about God’s word and the need to measure, to “measure twice, and cut once.”

Just as there is a correct measurement in building something, there is a correct answer with God’s word. The problem is when people decide to start “cutting” without making sure they are doing what is proper with God.

In Daniel 5 we read of Belshazzar the king of Babylon having a great party. He decided to get some of the vessels taken from the temple in Jerusalem. “They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze and iron, wood and stone” Daniel 5:4. It was then a hand appeared before them. The hand wrote, “Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin.” No one knew what it meant except Daniel. When called before the king and his companions, Daniel interpreted the words,

“God has numbered your kingdom, and finished it. You have weighed in the balances, and found wanting. Your kingdom has been divided and given to the Medes and Persians” Daniel 5:26-28.

I wonder how many live their lives without regard to God’s word and will be found wanting on the Day of Judgment? Just as a wise carpenter measures before cutting, so should we look to God’s word before we make important decisions.

Also, you can’t un-cut a board. Sometime after my parents’ house was finished, they decided to have some cabinets installed in the basement. As I was watching the installers, one said, “I cut that board twice and it is still too short!” He was joking but there is an important point there. Some things cannot be undone.

Yes, you can ask for forgiveness and pray to do better in the future, but sins sometimes have consequences in this life. The murderer can obey the Gospel, but he must still pay the penalty for his crime. The wayward child of God may wise up before it is too late and come back to God, but he can’t undo the harm he has caused in his “riotous living.”

Parents often wish they had served God while their children were being brought up, but those informative years, once gone are gone. The consequences of bad parenting are often rebellious and ungodly children.

Many a tear has been shed by a parent realizing only too late the damage they did by not bringing up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, Ephesians 6:4. We need to make sure we are doing the right things before we make our “cuts.”

Checking twice catches a lot of wrong measurements. Regena and I installed a floor in the basement. It was interesting how we helped to double check each other. One day we were having a particularly hard time cutting the materials for a section in the kitchen. It looked pretty straight forward as to the measurements and cuts. But we had to throw away a number of boards. The length was wrong or the width was wrong. One time Regina measured the space and then the boards. I double checked before making the cut and found her measurements to be off. (In fairness I had my share of OPS too).

The problem is we often make the same mistakes the second time we measure things. So it goes with the word of God. Yes, we need to double check the Bible to make sure it says what we think it says. But it helps to ask someone else to see if they are getting the same answer. The people at Berea searched the scriptures daily to see whether the things taught by Paul was correct, Acts 17:11. Paul had to confront Peter on one occasion due to his hypocrisy in Galatians 2.

Preachers often invite the audience to open their Bibles and turn to the passages read so as to make sure the preacher is not misquoting a verse. Even honest people make mistakes, and pointing out their error is what they want and need.

No one should ever want to be wrong. Therefore, measuring twice, and cutting once is a good rule for the carpenter, and the child of God.

Dennis Tucker

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Romans 1:16

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.

There is so much about life I cannot control, where my wishes and wants do not seem like they matter.  I wish I could decide the laws of our land, or at least the leaders of our country, but I cannot.  If it was up to me everyone would put in an honest day’s work and there would be good jobs for people to do.  No one would ever lie to me, speak evil against me, or try to take what is mine.  If I were in control each person would live moral lives and serve God faithfully.

Time is also out of my control and no one knows what is going to happen next.  Even when I decide what to do and when I am going to do it, my plans often go awry.  Who plans to get into an accident while driving to a meeting?  That is never the way I see my travels going.

It can be pretty frustrating when life throws us a curve or when we feel everything is against us.  But rather than sulking over what we cannot control, it is better to do what we can to make our lives happy.  As the saying goes, “When life gives you lemons then make lemonade,” but I have tasted some bad lemonade.  So if want good tasting lemonade we need to follow a good recipe.  That is where the Bible comes in; it is our Divine guide for making lemonade when life is hard and unfair.

First, God tells us how to live and what to do to avoid many of the hardships we bring on ourselves.  And so while it is true I cannot control every event in life or how others act, I can manage the way I live.  For example, if I obey the laws of this land I minimize the chance of me getting into trouble.  That is what the Bible says in Romans chapter fourteen, “Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority?  Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval….”  Even though the courts can get it wrong, I can only control my actions and by doing right I can lessen the chance of me getting into trouble.

Some laws even protect us, as when we obey the speed limit and reduce the chance of being in a wreck.  Or like when parents strap their young children in car seats and cut the risk of injury if they are in an accident.  God’s laws do the same by helping us avoid trouble before it starts.  Who is at a higher risk, the one who follows Satan by acting ugly, or the one who does what God wants by loving his enemy?

I know many believe why be good because others will walk all over you if they think you are weak.  And so, even though it makes no sense, they associate goodness with weakness.  This is not God’s view about doing right.  He tells us if we want to “see good days” then we need to “turn away from evil and do good.” (1 Peter 3:10)  God also says “repay no one evil for evil” (Rom. 12:17)) and “so far as it depends on you live peaceably with all.” (Rom. 12:18)  It’s true, I cannot control what others do, but I can give myself the best chance to live peacefully with others by doing what God says.  Again, it is a matter of me controlling what I can to give myself this hope.

Think about how many problems in life we could solve or cut if we did just what was in our control to do.  For example, if you want a better marriage then do not worry about how your husband or wife is doing because you cannot control that anyway. (Col. 3:18-19)  Besides, even if you feel mistreated how will your marriage be better by you acting ugly?  Remember what you can control and be good.

This is not to say we should be happy when others mistreat us or feel as if we have to resign ourselves to cruelty.  Clearly everyone is better-off and more pleased when all parties behave right.  So if you want people to be nice to you then try being nice to them. (Rom. 12:20-21)

I have heard people say, “I just don’t get anything out of the services on Sunday.”  The preacher is too dry and boring, the singing always drags, and the members just are not that friendly.  You know we can make any excuse not to do the Lord’s Will, but the truth is none of these control what we get out of worship.  I choose to come to services ready, focused, and excited or not. (Heb. 10:25)

If the members are just not that friendly then what am I doing about it?  Perhaps you can be the one member who changes the church to a friendly nature.  You can go to as many visitors as possible and make sure they fell welcomed by you. (Phil. 4:21)  This is what you control.

I want to encourage all of us not to become frustrated over what we cannot control.  Life is too short to worry about these matters and there is too much we can do to become bogged down in something beyond our power.  You control how much support you give to the church, how much time you spend doing the Lord’s work, and how faithful you are to Christ.  Finally, you control where you spend eternity and there is nothing as important as that. (Rev. 22:17)
Terry Starling

If any psalm could be claimed as belonging in Texas, it would be Psalm 29. In that psalm, David described a storm that was sweeping through the land around Jerusalem – a West Texas thunderstorm by today’s standards.

The storm must have been truly awesome. There was lightning, thunder, and flooding. Cedar and oak trees were destroyed and forests were stripped bare. The cedars of Lebanon must have been enormous. They may have rivaled the redwood forests of California. Yet they were easily destroyed.

The storm may have occurred in conjunction with an earthquake, because David wrote, “He makes Lebanon skip like a calf”. He also wrote, “The voice of the Lord shakes the desert; the Lord shakes the Desert of Kadesh”. No wonder David wrote, “And in his temple all cry, ‘Glory!'”

As was so typical of David, everything he saw and experienced channeled his thinking upon the Lord God. For David, that certainly made sense because, as God’s creation, everything in nature reflected the nature and attributes of God.

In the case of the storm, David’s thoughts turned to the great power of God. In comparison to God’s power and glory, the efforts of mankind were puny. Through a storm, the ground shook, flood waters raged and forests were stripped bare. All of the armies and power of humanity could do nothing to stop it.

Even today, with all the advances in technology, mankind stands helpless before the power of nature. Storms batter coast lines, earthquakes demolish cities and infrastructure, winter storms paralyze the transportation systems of a nation. It is so easy to look in amazement at monuments built by mankind. And yes, the abilities to visualize and then create are wonderful. But the source of that ability is God; and when ability turns to arrogance, then the power of God reflected in His creation will demonstrate very quickly the value of arrogance.

David also acknowledged the power of God’s voice. Seven times he wrote, “The voice of the Lord…” The first chapter of Genesis states, “And God said, ‘Let there be light’, and there was light.” The writer of Hebrews wrote, “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” Today, a person can speak, and a door will open, a phone call can be made, and a computer will function. All of these examples are merely a pale reflection of the real source of power.

The storm also demonstrated the nature of God’s law. The power of the storm occurred through the action of certain laws of nature. The lightning, thunder, wind, turbulence and all the rest happened as a result of the workings of God’s laws.

What does the law of nature show about God and His law? It shows that if the laws of nature are broken, there are always consequences. If a car tries to turn too fast, the laws of inertia and centrifugal force will cause that car to skid, spin, roll over, crash, or; any combination. If a housing development is built in a flood plain, then there is a very high probability that the area will be flooded. If a person climbs a rose trestle up the side of a house, and he weighs more than the trestle can support, then he will fall.

In nature, there is no compromise or negotiation. God’s spiritual laws are equally binding. If we sin, the price of that sin is death – period. If we face God in our sins, there will be no discussion or excuses – only death. The revelation that is shown in nature can show the power and divine nature of God. Nature shows the uncompromising results for those that choose to violate natural laws. That’s what David saw in the storm.

However, in the Word of God, a complete picture of God’s nature is revealed. With power is grace, with judgment is love and with the penalty for sin is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Only the Bible can reveal the love, grace, compassion, and Plan of God. Oh yes! What a joy to be able to echo Paul’s words, “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift”.

A final point is revealed in Psalm 29. Verses one through nine described the full of the impact and significance of the storm. However, the mood abruptly changed in verse ten and eleven. It was almost like feeling the abrupt calm and silence as the storm quickly moved on. The violence, the noise, and the blinding light were gone. All that was left was what it represented. The storm was both a warning and a hope for David and all of God’s people. “The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord is enthroned as King forever.”

Today, within every storm of nature and storm of life, is the same warning and hope. No matter what happens, the Lord is King forever. For those still in sin – the warning is power and judgment. But for those joined to God through Jesus Christ, “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace”.

Jim Shelburn

Tomorrow, Monday, May 26, 2014, our country celebrates Memorial Day.  History does not give us a clear picture of when or where our country first celebrated Memorial Day, but most agree it was soon after the American Civil War.  It was a way for our nation to remember those who died on both sides of the conflict.  At first various places selected their own date to remember the fallen, but overtime the federal government and states agreed on one date.

Our country has fought in many wars and we have lost countless men and women in battle.  Every one of them deserves our thanks and honor for the job they did.  They are worthy of a special day, a day we reflect on their sacrifices and service.  However, remembering just one day a year is not enough for what they did for us.  We should give thanks every day for our men and women who serve or have served.

While tomorrow Americans celebrate Memorial Day, today Christians remember the greatest act of love, courage, and sacrifice ever made for us. (John 15:13)  Just before His death, Jesus set up the Lord’s Supper to remind His disciples of what He did for them.  This Supper comprises two parts; the unleavened bread reminding us of His broken body and the fruit of the vine reminding us of His shed blood.  (Luke 22:19-20)

When eating the Lord’s Supper we should carefully reflect on what Jesus did for us, and we should rejoice knowing His love and sacrifice saves us.  I believe this is the point of Paul’s words when he said “let a man examine himself” as he eats and drinks. (1 Cor. 11:28)  This has us thinking back on all that Christ did for us, thus it is a sober event.  It also has us thinking about how He benefited us, thus a time to celebrate.

Let’s look more closely at the life of Jesus, and why He so deserves our honor and thoughts.  Think about it for a moment, everything, including you and me, comes from the Lord’s wisdom and power. (Jer. 10:12)  I would not be writing this article and you would not be reading it if not for Christ.  He made us with intelligence and the power to choose, but we chose poorly when we sinned. (Rom. 3:23)

God the Son allowed Himself to take on man’s body, and He knew it was a body prepared for sacrifice. (Phil. 2:5-8)  However, before He could offer Himself Jesus had to live and experience life.  Christ had to face what we face, Satan tempted Him, and He had His loyalty to the Father tested.  He was “in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Heb. 4:15)

The Lord also suffered much in this life, and it is not like He had it easier than others. (Luke 24:25-26)  Sadly, most of His suffering came at the hands of His greatest Creation, man.  People mocked Him, lied about Him, and He was abandon by so many who should have known better. (John 15:18-25)

Not only did Jesus know He came to die, He even knew how He would die. (Luke 18:32-33)  The Jews wanted Jesus dead early in His ministry, and the Gentile puppets of Rome had no backbone to save an innocent Christ.  It would not be an easy and quick death; no, He would suffer hours of torture at the hands of His enemies.  When you consider all the Lord did for us, there is no doubt He is worthy of all honor we can give Him.  It is a story no Christian should ever forget.

The Lord’s death does not end the story, because if it did then all of God’s promises would be lies.  Jesus said His coming forth from the grave would serve as proof to His claims and promises. (Matt. 12:39-41)  If you want to know for sure He is God the Son, then look to that Sunday when He was gone from the grave. (Acts 2:27-31)  If you wonder about eternal life or a final day when the dead shall rise then look to Him. (1 Cor. 15:13-18)  So we do not just remember the Lord’s death, but the events that followed.

The reason any of matters is that we can benefit by what He did.  I want to remember because Christ is the greatest show of God’s love for me. (1 John 4:9-10)  When the Lord forgives my sins, my hope goes beyond this life. (Titus 2:11-14)  The promise of heaven and eternal life are mine if I serve Christ faithfully. (Rev. 2:10)

While we wait for the life to come and the blessings of heaven, Christians get much from this life right now.  The Bible teaches us how to live peacefully with others and what to do when there is conflict. (Rom. 12:17-21)  It tells us how to love one another and to forgive each other.  God tells us how to be the best husbands or wives, and best parents or children. (Eph. 5 & 6)  We learn what it means to be good citizens, employees, or employers. (Rom. 13 & Eph. 6)  By listening to God we give ourselves the greatest chance to have a good life. (1 Peter 3:10)

We also enjoy the benefits an extended family, one that supports and encourages us to live a faithful Christian life. (Eph. 4:11-16)  The local church is where we become members and it is the group of Christians we are most familiar with.  Most Sundays we gather these people to take part in the Lord’s Supper and to remember the Lord’s death.  Our local brothers and sisters are the ones who weep when we weep and rejoice when we rejoice. (Rom. 12:15)  They watch out for our souls and try to gently bring us back when fall.  (Heb. 13:17)

Our extended family goes way beyond the local church to include Christians everywhere.  When we travel we know faithful brothers and sisters long to see us.  There is a support group anywhere and everywhere we find a church serving the Lord.  Yes, today is Sunday and we at Grissom Road have come together to take part in the Lord’s Supper.  All faithful churches are doing the same this morning and remembering the greatest sacrifice every made for man.

Terry Starling