Don't Let "Nothing" Stop You!

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: I Kings 18:41-46
Key Verse: "And said to his servant, Go up now, and look toward the sea. And he went up, and looked, and said, There is nothing. And he said, Go again seven times." (I Kings 18:43)

What really stops most people isn't something - it's nothing. When something is going on, we can usually see, hear, and/or feel it; think about Goliath, Jericho, the Red Sea, etc. However, these "somethings" are not the biggest hindrances. The biggest hindrance is, 1.)  not being able to see the conclusion of the matter, 2.) not understanding what God is doing, 3.) knowing we don't have the resources, 4.) seeing that what we can do isn't enough, and, 5.) a lack of faith.

Don't let "nothing" stop you!

1. Remember the God you serve
1. Don't take your eyes off Him
2. Lift up your eyes unto the hills - "my help cometh from the Lord!"
3. Elijah didn't have the power to stop (or start) the rain.
2. Look for the answer to your prayers
1. Expect it
2. Pray wisely - God's will (not "blab it and grab it")
3. Believe/Trust what God says (Titus 1:2)
4. Abraham was told the child was coming
1. Sarah laughed (it seemed impossible to her)
2. The angel said, "Is anything too hard for God?"
3. Just because you can't "see" it doesn't mean it's not happening
3. Obedience and Patience are required
1. Just because things are going against you - don't flag!
2. God always wants to bless you
3. The problem comes when we become displaced
1. If we're not where we are supposed to be when the blessing is poured out, we'll miss it!
4. Our obedience needs to be nailed down - fixed!
1. Willing and Obedient (Isaiah 1:18-19)

Our God makes things (speaks them) out of nothing! We do not walk by sight - but by faith. "In your patience possess ye your souls." (Luke 21:19) The perfecting of our faith takes time. "The trying of your faith worketh patience. Let patience have her perfect work..." (James 1:2-3) - so you can be entire (whole). Bear in mind: waiting on the Lord brings renewal. (Isaiah 40:31)

The "prophecy" (three and a-half years of drought,) did not mean to stop praying. God provided for His prophet for the entire time, making them "light afflictions." (II Corinthians 4:17) 

"But my God shall supply all your need,

 according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

(Philippians 4:19)

Plowing and Planting in Hope

By Charles R. Grisham

Text: I Corinthians 9:10 - "...For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope."

Between sowing and harvest a tremendous amount of work has to be done. Even when the land is idle (during the winter) there is an absolute need for the repairing of tools and machinery.

There's only so much strength in the soil. Different soils are good for different crops. For instance, Georgia's soil grows great peanuts, while North Dakota's soil produces bumper crops of wheat. Too often, the government pays farmers not to grow crops - to let the land be idle. Then, our land lies idle while China (or some other country,) sells us wheat (or whatever). They call this "land management."

What we each have is; time, talent, and treasure. No two people have the same amount of talent and/or treasure. But we all have the same amount of time. We are always planting something. The question is; What are we planting?

"The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing." (Proverbs 20:4) Note: See also Proverbs 6:9, 13:4, 15:19, 19:24, 21:25, 26:16.)

PAY ATTENTION!

If you think about it, we take time (actually "make" time,)

for whatever it is that we really want to do.

The LAW of SOWING and REAPING

Remember - whatever it is that you're planting, (sowing,) that's what you're going to reap. Corn comes from corn seed, apples from apple seeds, pumpkins from pumpkin seeds, etc.

• Pray for rain in its' due season.
• The farmer plants in hopes of the harvest.
• Make sure your seed is "certified" seed.
• Study, examine the soil before you begin... break it up... fertilize it.
• If I plant more "me" than I plant "Jesus" - I will reap more "me."
• Within the seed is the pattern (DNA) for the life that is to be.
• Be patient and you will see the fruit of your labors in generations to come (Galatians 6:8)
• God is looking for folks who won't give up in the heat, or drought, or flood, or cold, or whatever. (I Corinthians 3:6)
• Weeding is a hot, dirty, tedious, seemingly thankless task; but we need to be good with the hoe!
• Remember that the soil only has so much energy. If its energy is used up in weeds, there's less energy for the good seed to grow.
• Without a regenerated heart, you cannot recognize the weed or the weed planter. And like crabgrass, once allowed to grow, it will take over and choke out the good stuff.
• A regenerated heart recognizes the good!.

 REMEMBER!

The increase is the project of God. The Lord's work cannot be done in our own strength. Building for eternity requires the cooperation of both partners.

"And you shall reap just what you sow,

For the things you plant - are the things that grow;

God's Word shall stand for evermore,

And you will reap just what you sow!"

Who and What Are You Feeding?

By Rufus M. Parker

Text: Romans 8:5-10 -  "For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness."

After reading and listening to the news a few weeks ago, I learned that merchants had become concerned that people were not going to spend much as money as in past years' Christmases. But as time passed, the reports began coming in that most stores were in the black. 

I sat and wondered about all the spending taking place. How much of it went towards something to edify the Spirit? I wonder how many Bibles were purchased and given as gifts? I wonder how much was spent on spreading the gospel to a lost and dying world? 

It seems as though the longer the Lord tarries the more people are trying to satisfy the flesh more than the Spirit. What I have found is this; if you feed and take care of the spiritual man, the fleshly man will be under subjection. As you continue doing this he will remain dead - and you will live - because your life will be full of righteousness.

Editor's Note: Bro. Parker pastors Calvary Apostolic Church in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Retired from a U.S. military career, he has authored numerous books and publishes a daily blog; here is a lnk...  http://morningmanna-parker.blogspot.com

Don't Mention It!

By Jill Friedman

When someone does something for you out of their heart and you say, "thanks," they often say, "Don't mention it." They did it with love and it didn't hurt them at all because they cared or had it to spare.

There are other times when a person can bring up a matter over and over and nag because of their own dissatisfaction. You wish they would stop "mentioning it." It's kind of the reverse of the above. They expected you to meet their need and because you didn't they keep reminding you over and over in the hopes that you will yet do it, or because they can't get it off their mind.

My mother like this motto, "If more husbands were self-starters, their wives wouldn't have to be a crank." It's also true that some never stop focusing on others' imperfections but can't or won't fix their own.

Some time back my brother told me that God was really dealing with him about studying to be quiet. He is now a really good listener - to the point that you sometimes feel you're having a one-sided conversation. So many things are better left unspoken. Like the carpenter's motto, "Measure twice and saw once." - the same can be said for speaking.

The Bible says when you do good deeds, do them in secret and your Father will reward you openly. The Bible also says don't let your right hand know what your left hand is doing when it comes to good deeds. If we can just go on each day for Jesus - doing our own work to the best of our ability - we will be happier than if we try to stand on yesterday's laurels or moan over its errors.

We can't keep the Old Testament tit for tat, eye for an eye philosophy. Jesus said, If they want your coat, give them your coat also. Somehow we've got to come to the point where we don't fear personal loss. If we accept this society's rigorous agenda and suck in more and more for ourselves, we will never be satisfied.

Twice now, my husband and I have lost nearly everything; once in a partnership breakup, and once in a fire. We have also had our daughter spared after being hit by a van while she was walking to school. At first, it is shocking. Then these near total losses make you realize what is really important and what you really can live without. In spite of all the house stuff we lost, (which was almost everything,) life goes on. But when faced with possibly losing our daughter, the pressure was almost unbearable.

I guess what I'm trying to say is - don't hold on dearly to things that don't count. Letting go of fear and self-seeking goals can give more freedom. Not holding bitterness or resentment; forgetting the bad things that others have done, and that have happened to you will set you free. The Bible says all things work to the good for those that love God and are the called according to His purpose.

Don't speak too much or too soon. Listen. hear. Don't repeat bad news; not over and over in your mind - or - to others. Let it go. Don't mention it. If you think you've done good, let that go too. Keep on doing good and don't dwell on your goodness. Remember, only God is good. Let your love be real, not seeking a reward. Don't mention it!

Editor's Note: Sis. Jill has been a member of New Life Apostolic Church since the mid-1970's. After 34 years of marriage and continued faithfulness to God, she saw her Jewish husband repenting, being baptized in Jesus' Name,and filled with the Holy Ghost, just like the Bible says! She continues faithful, playing her saxophone, teaching little children, singing in the choirs, and blessing us all every so often with the song, "You Must Be Born Again."

Landmarks

By Berris Flemmings

"Remove not the ancient landmarks which thy fathers have set." (Proverbs 22:11)

The word, "landmark" is defined as, 1.) a prominent feature on land, especially one which acts as a guide in following a route or marking a boundary; 2.) an even which is of special significance in a process or period of change. From these two definitions we can say that a landmark is a reference point. Landmarks play an important role in our daily lives. Can you imagine what it would be like to travel throughout the city of Detroit without any landmarks?

Some time ago, I drove from Detroit to Dallas,Texas. I reached my destination without much trouble, but only because I kept following the directions on the map and looking for various landmarks. There were signs telling me the names of the different freeways, the speed limits, when a curve was coming up, and so on. I would not have been able to make it without those landmarks. My journey was successful only because I followed established guidelines. Can you imagine where I might have ended up if I had not followed them?
Having the experience and seeing how important landmarks are in reaching an unfamiliar destination, I can clearly see why the Bible tells us not to remove the landmarks which the fathers have set.

It's sad to see the amount of violence in the world today; children killing children, rape, stealing, and murder, just to name a few. As a child growing up, I remember the older folks talking about how terrible the sixties were and saying better must come. I can say without any reservation that worse has come and worst is in hot pursuit. Behaviors which were once condemned are now becoming the norm. People are searching for answers in all the wrong places and are coming up with all the wrong answers. The Bible tells us, "Righteousness exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

The world is in chaos because the ancient landmarks have been removed. It is more important than ever before to teach our children these guidelines; not only by telling them, but also by walking with them, pointing out the landmarks and explaining the significance of each. Proverbs 22:6 put this together beautifully, "Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it." It is said that happy families make happy communities, happy communities make happy nations, happy nations make a happy world.

Let us therefore journey through this life keeping our eyes and minds focused on the Word of God, and using it as our road map as we walk the pathway of righteousness. The pathway is old, very old, but it is God's way. It was good for our forefathers and it is as good for us today as it was back then. Furthermore, it will be just as good tomorrow

You see, God has not changed His plan for salvation, it's still the same. Men have made changes and deceived many, but the Bible tells us in no uncertain terms, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." (Proverbs 14:12)

Let us draw the same conclusion as did David;
"As for God, His way is perfect; the Word of the LORD is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him." (Psalm 18:30)
"The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes." (Psalm 19:7-8)

Let us therefore go through this life using the Word of God as our guideline,looking always unto holiness, not only in the spiritual aspects of our lives, but in all aspects. "In all thy ways acknowledge HIm, and He shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:6)

Editor's Note: Bro. Flemmings teaches the Adult Sunday School class each month in rotation. He is on our church's ministerial staff, and is willing and able - consistently serves the Body of Christ in many capacities.

You're Not an Egyptian!

By Marjorie Kinnee

My child, you are not an Egyptian,

You were raised as a child of the Light.

Though you run far and wide,

You can't escape, cannot hide,

You will never be out of God's sight.

My child, you are not an Egyptian,

And your heart of hearts knows this right well.

You can bury yourself,

Put your heart on a shelf,

But the knowledge continues to swell.

My child, you are not an Egyptian,

Sin's stains look ill on your face.

Its' chains drag you down,

Soil your white wedding gown,

And frustrate the dove of God's grace.

My child, you are not an Egyptian,

Too much time's been invested in you.

By those who have cared,

And have willingly shared,

Teaching you to be loyal and true.

My child, you are not an Egyptian,

Though in Egypt's dominion you roam.

His voice you once heard,

In song and in the Word,

And His voice is still calling you home.

My child, you are not an Egyptian,

Though bewitched by Egypt's facade.

So the war rages on,

'Twixt God and Dagon,

But my trust's in the promise of God!.

Just a Touch...

By Don Warfield

Did you ever have someone touch you when you were so down you thought no one knew you existed? Do you remember what that touch meant to you? Let me tell you a true story...

I knew a young man who was walking with God and God was with him in his life. But the young man sinned. he went to his pastor and confessed his sin: the pastor told him he must sit down in all church services and take no part. Eager to be forgiven and to obey his pastor, the young man complied.

As time went on the young man continued to come to church every time the doors opened. His pastor withdrew from him to help him understand how sin had made a separation line between him and God.

He still kept coming, feeling very low. It seemed nobody cared or even knew he was there, and that even God had withdrawn from him: for he felt nothing when he came. But the young man thought, "If God is ever going to return to me, I will have to be in church where He can."

After a long time of going, he began thinking, "What is the use?" But then, on a Sunday night as he left his office to go to the platform.to start the service, the pastor walked down the aisle where the young man was sitting. As he passed, he laid his hand on the young man's shoulder.

To the young man, that touch said all the things the pastor could not yet say. Through the touch, the young man heard the words, "I know you are here. I see you come every service. I do care, I still love you. God still loves you. Keep coming. Stay faithful. God is restoring you."

The next time you feel at a loss as to how to comfort someone and can't think of any words to say, think of all the words the young man heard that night with just a touch!

Editor's Note: Bro. Don Warfield leads our Home Bible Study Ministry and teaches in the Adult Sunday School Class each month in rotation. He is a student of the Word and a blessing to the Body of Christ.

Trust and Obey

Editorial by Marjorie Kinnee

"When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word,

What a glory He sheds on our way;

While we do His good will, He abides with us still,

And with all who will Trust and Obey.

Trust and Obey - for there's no other way,

To be happy in Jesus - but to Trust and Obey."

The words of this old song took on new meaning (for me) this week. Pondering on the issues of trust and obedience and an illustration oft repeated about the child who takes a blind leap on the say so of his father. Because he trusts his dad to catch him, a child obeys his father's command and jumps off some high place.
We use this analogy to explain faith as well as trust.

Jesus said, "If ye love Me, keep My commandments." (John 14:15) Years later,  John added greater emphasis... "And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him." (I John 2:3-4) He used strong words and serious implications that portend severe consequences (See Revelation 21:8.) in conjunction with obedience (keeping His commandments).

Consider these verses...
"Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the Word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation." (Hebrews 13:7) This verse describes trust in at least four premises...

1. Their "rule" is by the calling and appointment of God, (See I Corinthians 12:28.)
2. They teach "truth" from the Word of God,
3. Their "faith" is worth following, and,
4. The "results" of their teaching are eternal.

Drawing on these four premises leads to this conclusion: "remembering" (bearing in mind, accepting, giving heed to,) equates with trust.

"Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you." (Hebrews 13:17) The word, "obey" leads off; it's a clear command. Six important areas are emphasized...

1. Again, their "rule" is ordained of God, (See Ephesians 4:11-13.)
2. We are commanded to "submit" ourselves (to their rule),
3. They are charged with the responsibility of watching for our souls,
4. They must give an account of their ministry,
5. They also give account (witness) of our response - with joy or with grief,
6. If their report is given with "grief" - it will not profit us individually.

While a wealth of meaning can be attributed to the command to obey, and obedience is required in many situations and applications; one key point remains. Obedience is perfected when it is rooted in trust. What's more, the level of your trust is indicated by the scope of your obedience! (And vice-versa!) Thus, trusting obedience is the only way to demonstrate both obedience and trust - to yourself, and, to an unbelieving world. (See Acts 5:29; James 2:18.)

Trust and Obey - There's no other way!