Something to chew on...

In Deutoroneomy chapters 4-8 Moses prepares everyone to enter into the promised land by reminding them of God’s will for their lives. He is talking about idols, people, and the things that are not of God that will lead to distraction in their walk with HIM… How many times as Christians do we allow movies, music and the things that are distracting from God in our lives, and into our Christian homes? I know that I’ve allowed music to be played in the car with my children that was not fitting for them. I’ve allowed movies and other things “of this world” to come into my home  and distract me from God’s plan for mine and my families lives… In hindsight with grown children that no longer live at home, I would go back and do these things differently, much differently. My advice to parents of children in the home…explain to them why these shouldn’t be allowed and how they can distract us from God’s plan and purpose for their lives. When we invest in our children, spouses, friends and family, we not only invest in their future but the kingdom’s future as well – BE BOLD for the Kingdom!

Just be thankful!!

As I sit here catching up on my daily Bible reading, it hits me like a ton of bricks: We as a society and culture have advanced radically, yet still remain the same in so many ways....

Think about this...in the book of Exodus we read where the Israelites have been removed from Egypt: from the slavery, oppression, heartache...and given a promise to a better life. They have been in the desert for awhile yet God never left them...he provided food, water, protection, and meet ALL their needs. God led them directly in the form of a cloud through the day and the pillar of fire at night...on their way to the promised land. Then something happened...God calls Moses to the top of Mt. Sinai to give him the 10 Commandments and wasn't gone that long before they start grumbling about needing a "god" to lead them...and they start worshipping a Golden Calf that just popped out of the fire (Aaron's words not mine).

Fast forward 2,000 plus years later to 2018...How many times do we as Christian's do the same thing? God has promised us so many things, yet we start grumbling, complaining, and longing for the things of the past, what we don't have, or maybe even what someone else has. We are constantly comparing ourselves with others, constantly longing for things we don't need to impress people we don't really like. Even as Christian's if we're not careful we can let social media guide our morals, our dreams and desires...and before long we start acting as the Israelites did - Where did God go? Why don't I have this or that...

Reading, studying and seeking God daily is so important for the Christian. We must realize that God will supply our needs (Phil 4:19) and KNOW that he will never leave or abandon us (Heb 13:5). God is the same for us today as he was for them, he's personal, loving, caring and mighty! Take heart in knowing that God still guides us personally through his Holy Spirit. He speaks to us directly through his word, and we have been promised an eternity through his son Jesus, that allows us to walk, talk and be with our Creator!

Friend, be encouraged today...be encouraged in knowing that God is right there with you, he hasn't left you, and will supply everything you need! Thank him for what you have, what you're going to have and all that you've had in the past...Just be thankful!