In Our Times

Jesus said Follow Me

Andrew turned around to see Jesus looking at them.  His gaze drew him in.  The fisherman had been given an invitation to join this man-to walk with him, live with him, eath with him, and learn from him.  Instantly Andrew had made up his mind to trust his life to Jesus.  He was willing to give up everything that he had dreamed for his future becuase he saw something in Jesus he could not ignore.  ”Without delay” he left and followed Jesus.  

There was no hesitation, no indecisiveness.  He knew right away that he wanted to be with Jesus.  Nothing else mattered.  When Jesus invited “follow me”, some like Andrew followed.  However, others did not.  What was the difference?  The ones who folowed must have seen something different in Jesus than the others had.  Maybe the ones who ignored His offer thought that Jeus was interesting, but they didn’t think he was worth following.  

Maybe their reputation and image was stronger than their desire to be associated with Jesus.  Even today Jesus walks past individuals and calls out to them.  Yet, some by not saying “yes” are saying “no”.  Make sure you say “yes” today.

As Christians

“As Christians, we are called to follow God, to fellowship with other believers and to be fishers of men. Running the race isn’t easy but when we do it along with others it becomes much easier.”

He Knows

"Jesus My Flight Safety Guy"

I had heard their speech many times before, but this time, it was the one thing that I remembered.  In the midst of the in flight announcements made by the flight crew, we were told that the flight attendants will do everything that they can to make our flight pleasant, but their main purpose was our safety…their main purpose was our safety.  

Immediately that statement made me think about how the ten commandments interact with my life.  God gave the human race these instructions to better their lives and ultimately protect them.  The commandments protect people spiritually, relationally, as well as emotionally.  

Obedience to the tenants of scripture may seem old fashioned to some, but truth be told, they are not outdated.  They are just as meaningful and relevant as they always have been.

"God's Lessons Through Mindy"

When Mindy had a boyfriend she felt more attractive and more valuable.  When she didn’t all she could think about was getting one.  Some of the guys trying to get her attention were nice guys, most wanted to use her.  Many relationships left her with regrets.  After they would implode she could see the selfish ways that had been veiled under the manipulative words of love.  But, unfortunately, she never saw it soon enough.  My heart breaks for Mindy and people like her.  I want so badly for them to know that there is a God in Heaven who loves them and has great plans for their lives.  He wants them to know they are valuable, beautiful, and unique.  He wants to protect their hearts.  However, many never hear his encouraging whispers.  I want you to know that you are incredible. God loves you and wants to offer you a great life.  Don’t settle for something less.

"Ask For Or Need Jesus"

However, the next morning as his company woke, they realized that the storm had ceased, and they also discovered that the winds had moved so much sand that it revealed several mines that were right in their path.  Quickly, this man understood the folly of his arrogance. He knew that God had not given Him exactly what he asked for because He knew precisely what He needed. The way the story was relayed to me, a marine, who just so happened to be a Christian, was caught in a sand storm with all of his company.  Because he wanted to get moving so that they could accomplish their mission, this man began to pray that God would stop the storm so that they could get on with business and he could return to his family.  However, the storm persisted and the Christian grew frustrated.  As you walk with God, you will realize that God has the big picture in view.  His goal is not to give you comfort and convenience, but rather to provide you with everything that you need to live aggressively and completely for Him.  So, don’t get frustrated that He is not giving you everything that you ask for, instead, rejoice in the fact that He is giving you everything that you need.