A New Heart!

Posted on August 18, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ezekiel 36:24-27
24 For I will take you from among the nations, gather you out of all countries, and bring you into your own land. 25 Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols. 26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.

The Lord is speaking to the Nation of Israel through Ezekiel telling them of the good plans He has for them. Israel was scattered among the nations because of their disobedience but God plans to bring them back to Him. He goes further to tell them He will give them new hearts and cause them to walk with Him. They will follow His ways because He will be within them. With God’s Holy Spirit leading from the inside, the Israelites will walk with their God. Not only that, He will cause them to follow His commands. Oh if that were possible for us. It is if we will listen. God still calls us today.

Romans 3:23 says all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Not one beside Christ is worthy of salvation. Romans 6:23 (NKJV) says 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. What we deserve is death, not life. But instead, God offers us eternal life through Jesus. The clean water He says He will sprinkle on us to cleanse us is Baptism into Christ. Once in Christ, we are new creations. We will have a new heart. We will be transformed.

Transformation is different for different people. I had a friend who was addicted to illegal drugs. His life was not going well when he came to know the Lord. His transformation was instant. He was immediately freed from his drug addiction. I, on the other hand always had God in my life. There was no sudden change. Christ entered my life slowly, subtly but steadily. I have more peace. I am more patient. He calls me to walk with Him by guiding me through His Holy Spirit. I become aware of things through His leading. I know things I did not know before as they are revealed to me.

Do you feel you have strayed too far for Him to redeem you? We go astray by our own choosing. But God always has a plan for our return. He loves us that much. No matter how far you have strayed, God still loves you and has made a way back possible for you. He will gather you from all the world and bring you back to Him. And He will live within you to guide you in the way that is best for you. He loves you so much, He will always welcome you with open arms.

Thank You Lord that You always make a way for us to return to You. Thank You that You wash us clean and give us a new heart; a heart that loves You. Gather us to Yourself and let us live in Your grace forever. In Your name we pray!

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Praiseworthy!

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Robert Springer

Philippians 4 Selected (NKJV)
1Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord,…….8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

To what are you listening? Are you listening to the daily news reports? If you listen to network news, you are getting more than your share of discouragement. We’ve been conditioned to believe that “no news is good news.” That is more relevant to today than it seems. Our network news people tell us the most sensational headlines with the “story at eleven!” Facts and information are not needed. Just give us flash. There hasn’t been a journalist since Walter Cronkite or Huntley & Brinkley. The worse the story, the more excited they are to promote it to us. If we listen to all this negative input all the time, what kind of disposition will we develop?

Paul had a better idea. He tells us to concentrate on better things. The mind takes in what you allow. If you allow negative input, you will develop a negative attitude. Why not allow positive input? Why not focus on the good things rather than just the bad. Become a Good Finder. We know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him. Don’t let the network news determine what goes into your mind. You bring about what you think about. What do you want to allow to go into your mind?

Also consider what comes out of your mouth. Do you speak what is praiseworthy? The world tears us down. Why not work toward building one another up as we are advised here. Use your words to build and promote others. As you go through your day, look for the good things that are happening and call them to people’s attention. Praise people who are doing a good job. Activity that is praised will be repeated. Praise the activity you would like to have performed more often. Do this especially in young people. Set an example of how to praise and how to live. They are watching. What world do we want to pass to the next generation? Should it be a world of rudeness and self-absorption or a world of respect and common courtesy? You decide! Are you showing the example you wish to have followed by others. Paul suggests that it be praiseworthy. Is your behavior praiseworthy? It is your choice. Decide for praiseworthy today and God will be with you!

Hello Lord! Thank You for giving us Paul’s example of how to live. Paul learned from you how we should live. Help us to look for the good in all situations and praise that good. Teach us to focus outside of ourselves. Help us to live in a praiseworthy manner and encourage others to do the same by our example. In Your name we pray! Amen!

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Be Positive and Encouraging!

Posted on August 16, 2016 by Robert Springer

Hebrews 3:12-13 (NIV)
12 See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.13 But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

We are told to encourage one another. Why? Do you think people need encouragement? I do! In fact, that is why I began writing Encouragement Daily. Our world is a dark place. The adversary goes around causing confusion and doubt everywhere he can. He tries to distract us from all the good things that God intends for us. That distraction leads to separation from God. That separation is called sin.

The world constantly hammers us with negative thoughts saying we cannot do things. If we listen to the negative voices, we will be held back from the destiny God has planned for us. What we believe will affect any outcome we may have. Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, either way you are right. I have worked with foster children and youth groups and seen this in real life. One young man says “I cannot do this.” He clouds up and frustration abounds to where he is ready to throw things away. We need a time out to chase away the negative mindset.

How can you chase away the negativity? With our young man, I know he can do it because he has done it before. But he focuses on his failures rather than his successes. First, hugs and consolation are in order. That is the beginning of the time out. We remind him of our love for him first. Sometimes, a little tickling is involved to change the mood. A child’s laughter cheers any room. Then, we check the history. Have you ever done this before? How did it come out? So you were able to do it then? “You helped me.” He says. Don’t you think I would help you again? If you did it before, why would you think you cannot do it again? We are all just children of all ages. We think we cannot do something. We get scared. We withdraw. God, our Father, has to ask the same questions. “But you helped me.” we say. Then why wouldn’t God help us again. All we need do is ask. Do you ask God for help? Do you listen for His answer or do you try to go it on your own? Going alone is never fun. Sometimes, God puts other people in your life to help you with things as well. Sometimes you just need encouragement. That is true for others. They may need a kind word from you.

Today, encourage one another. That way, you will overcome the schemes of the adversary that are trying to discourage you. Discourage means without courage. You have courage. It was built into you. Don’t let doubt separate you from your destiny. And don’t let doubt happen to your friends. Encourage them. Encourage each other today!

Lord, thank You that You have given us everything we need to become who You designed us to be. We are Your children and we get scared. Comfort us on the road and let us walk with You! In Your name we pray.

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Only You!

Posted on August 15, 2016 by Robert Springer

Isaiah 64:4-6 NKJV
4 For since the beginning of the world Men have not heard nor perceived by the ear,
Nor has the eye seen any God besides You, Who acts for the one who waits for Him.
5 You meet him who rejoices and does righteousness, Who remembers You in Your ways.
You are indeed angry, for we have sinned— In these ways we continue; And we need to be saved.6 But we are all like an unclean thing, And all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; We all fade as a leaf, And our iniquities, like the wind, Have taken us away.

Who is like our Lord; righteous and Holy. You pour out Your favor upon Your own. You act for us! We cannot even fathom the height, width and depth of Your love and character. There is none beside You. Awesome in power and righteousness. To whom else can we go as Your’s are the words of eternal life.

Which path do you follow? Are you familiar enough with God’s way to know the path He has ordained for you? Do you seek His counsel to decipher the way you should go? When you walk the road God has chosen for you, He will make your paths straight. In the center of His will are peace, grace and love. God intentionally acts for your benefit. He cares for His own. Are you His own?

We get to choose our way. God created us and gave us free will. We can choose to love Him or not. Choosing to love and follow Him means He will act for you. When I was younger, I felt a lack of support as if I didn’t measure up to the standards. Because of that, I think I over compensated acting as if I was better that I actually was. Then, I did not realize that every good thing comes from God. I thought it was all up to me. At fourteen, I claimed to have reached the apex of perfection. That was what I needed to do to boost my ego. I was unaware that, apart from God, we can do nothing. Now, I understand who I am. My righteousness is like filthy rags. But I also understand whose I am. In Him, I am holy, righteous and redeemed. Jesus covers me in His righteousness as a garment by the sacrifice of His life for mine. He died that I may live! And what a life it is. Old Bob was in charge. If it was to be, it was up to me. New Bob is along for the most glorious ride. I have a life of peace, joy, grace and compassion. There are still challenges along the way though.

Some years ago, as a devotional introduction to a Church meeting, we broke down into pairs and were to ask each other this question several times trying to draw out the deeper meaning. Our question was “What would it grieve you to have to give up to follow Christ?” I was the one to ask my partner the question first. She gave a long list of things like home, education and other things. I had a chance to think about this while it was her turn. By the time my turn came, I had clarity. The Spirit had spoken to me. There was nothing I would grieve because everything I have is from Him. He gave me every good thing in my life. You see, even when I was not fully aware of God, His hand was still on me and in my life! My God was acting for me. He always has and I see that when I look back. Looking forward is scary. But when you look back and see all the things He has already done for you in the past, it gives you courage and assurance that He walks with you and cares for you. You can walk boldly into the future, knowing the Creator of the universe goes before you making the crooked places straight and acting in your best interest in every situation whether you see Him or not.

Lord God, thank You that You act for the one who waits for You! Let us be those who love and serve You. May we walk with you as You lead us in the path You have ordained us to walk. Let us know You are with us when we are frightened. Guide us with your righteous right hand. Help us to bring glory and honor to Your holy name we pray. Amen!

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Can You Handle The Truth?

Posted on August 14, 2016 by Robert Springer

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Scripture is the only standard by which we should live. Some say that truth is relative. Does that mean that it depends on the situation? So, it is OK for me to kill someone if they cut me off in traffic? Is gravity relative in different places here on earth? How can truth be relative? I need to know right from wrong and truth from lies. What standard should I use as a guideline? Should our government be the source of truth? Actually it should but it isn’t.

Paul tells us that all Scripture is God breathed. That means it is the Word of God recorded by approximately 40 men of diverse backgrounds over 1500 years. Paul’s assertion is that it was dictated or revealed by God to these men making it His Word. I heard it said that Bible stands for Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. Pilate asked “what is truth?” For me, the Bible is the source of truth. Many say it is just a nice history book. While archeology and science have been able to prove much of the Bible, I take God at His Word. Many, like atheist and author Lee Strobel, set out to disprove the Bible and ended up coming to faith in Christ through their efforts. God loves doubters. Just ask Thomas. They found the information compelling. When I read the New Testament, I realized what all the Old Testament prophecies were about. I came to Christ May 31, 1998 because of my research. Also, I was working with a Christian Youth Group and learned things from them. Paul goes on to list the benefits of Scripture. I like to use it to teach. There is only one perfect person in the Bible and they hung Him on a tree. The rest of us all had flaws but God showed us how He can use those flaws for our good and to bring glory to Himself. Adam was weak, Eve was gullible, Abraham lied, Moses stuttered, Aaron worshipped idols, Jonah was disobedient, David was a murdered and fornicator, Isaiah was afraid, Peter betrayed Jesus, and Lazarus was dead. And these are all heroes of the Bible. If you were going to write a book of fiction, would you include these characters? Probably not.

So what is the good news? The good news is this. The Bible is a story of God’s love, compassion and grace for His people. God loves you and, through these stories, demonstrates how that love plays out. He shows you His grace given to people who are no better than you. If they received His grace, so can you. The Bible tells you that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. It says you are awesome! There are promises in there that still apply to you. Hebrews 4 (NIV) says 4 Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest [heaven] still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. Joel Osteen opens his services with this statement. “This is my Bible. I am what it says I am. I have what it says I have. I can do what it says I can do……….” You have the same Bible. Believe what it says about you and live accordingly. You are a child of God. As heir to the Kingdom, live boldly in love today!

Holy Spirit, help us to live boldly in You today! Remind us who we are in You and guide us as You would have us live. By Your power, help us to love one another as You have loved us. Help us to live in and share Your Truth. In Jesus name we pray! Amen!

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Masterpiece!

Posted on August 13, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

God created you in His image and likeness. What does it mean to be in the likeness of God? Much of it is to be like God; to have some of His attributes. In fact, you were given the seeds of most of God’s attributes. You were made to be in your place and time. You were given the gifts and talents you would need to run the race set out before you. You are one of a kind. As Zig Ziglar would say, “You were designed for accomplishment, engineered for success and endowed with the seeds of greatness.” You are God’s Masterpiece.

“With all that going for me”, you say,” how come I am not more successful?” How do you define success? Is it all about the money? Is “show me the money” you catch phrase? Success is different things to different people. God has a plan for you. Maybe money was not the dominant idea in His plan. He knows what you need better than you do. He has laid out a race for you that is specific to the gifts and talents He built into you. Will you use those gifts? How will you run that race and will you finish strong?

Also, we were created to do good works. The Bible says you will know them by their fruit (Matt 7:16). You can tell a lot about a person by looking at the work they do. What is the quality of the work? What kind of work is it? Do they volunteer a lot? God has ordained work for us to do. Doing this work will bring personal satisfaction. When I finish a project or solve a challenge, it makes me feel really good. Isn’t it interesting to know that God planned these projects for us in advance? It is all part of His plan to highlight the gifts He has placed within you. You are one of a kind. You are amazing. You are God’s handiwork and He made you perfect for His plan. You are His Masterpiece. Work within God’s plan by asking to do His will. Ask His Spirit to lead you in the race He set out before you from the beginning of the world!

Father God, we thank You that You have a plan for our lives. It is good to know that You care so much that You establish the work of our hands. Thank You for the gifts and talents to accomplish Your plan. Bring us to where You would have us be so we can carry out the race that will take us closer to You and bless one another. Help us to achieve our destiny which will be our praise to You! In Your name we pray!

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Keep Going!

Posted on August 12, 2016 by Robert Springer

Philippians 1:3-6 (NKJV)
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, 5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;

We all come up against challenges that are overwhelming and we are not sure how we will make it through. Or we don’t feel we have what it takes to accomplish something. We are walking through the valley of the shadow of death. It seems as darkness is closing in around us. But the key is walking through the valley. There is a table prepared for us on the other side if we keep walking. Don’t stop here!

In his letter to the Church at Philippi, Paul writes words of thanks and praise about his flock there. They have been faithful thus far. He is concerned that they are having a hard time and losing faith. Jesus said in John 16:33 “33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”  “In this world you will have trouble. He told them flat out. However, He told them He had overcome the world by His cross. And He did that for you and me. You may struggle but we already know the final outcome. You win because you are on God’s team. Have confidence and fight the good fight. He who begun a good work in you will complete it.

What is the good work He has begun in you? In Galatians 5, we are told of these fruits. “22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control.” All of these have been placed in us. You are God’s Masterpiece created in His image and likeness. You are holy, righteous and redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. You are anointed. You are empowered. You are highly favored. You are guided by His Spirit. With all that behind you, this should be an awesome day for you. You are a child of the King. Put your shoulders back. Raise your head up high and go out and show the world what it looks like to follow a Risen Lord today!

Each day, when I awake, I have to make the choice to get out of bed as do you. Some days, I do not want to get up. Voices tell me nothing good is going to come out of today. But God’s voice tells me this is the day the Lord has made. I choose to rejoice and be glad in it. You have a choice. Will you get up and do everything as if unto the Lord or will you listen to the negative voices which say you’ll never accomplish your dream? What choice will you make? Remember who loves you and what He has placed inside you! You have everything you need. The dream in your heart is from Him. Go live the dream! Be who God calls you to be and let Him finish the work He has begun in you.

Thank You Father that you have created us to be who You decided we should be. Thank you for all the gifts and talents you have given us. Help us to use what you have given us to Your glory to complete the work You have begun in us today. In your name we pray! Amen!

From Greater by MercyMe: There’ll be days I lose the battle Grace says that it doesn’t matter
Cause the cross already won the war. I am learning to run freely Understanding just how he sees me
And it makes me love him more and more.

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Flowers in God’s Garden!

Posted on August 11, 2016 by Robert Springer

Mark 4:3-9 (NKJV)The Parable of the Sower
3 “Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. 4 And it happened, as he sowed, that some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds of the air came and devoured it. 5 Some fell on stony ground, where it did not have much earth; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. 6 But when the sun was up it was scorched, and because it had no root it withered away. 7 And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. 8 But other seed fell on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.” 9 And He said to them, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

Our Lord calls us to plant seeds. These are the seeds of the Gospel. It is our job to plant, to water and to fertilize but it is God, by His Holy Spirit, the gives the increase. It is He who makes them grow.

The parable of the sower speaks about sharing the good news with people. Some will listen and some won’t but we are called to share. I take that call seriously. I try to spread the good news wherever I go. Sometimes, I think I spend too much time with others and not enough looking after my own.

I was looking at my garden. It is a sad state of affairs. There are weeds everywhere. I look around and see other people’s gardens and lawns and they are neat and well trimmed. I know we are not supposed to compare ourselves to others but it is human nature. Then I got to thinking. I spend time on things that matter more to me and to Him. Instead of hours in the garden, I am investing in what’s better.

VBS Sports Camp happened a few weeks ago and I spent the week with 122 kids and 100+ teenage volunteers. I was there in the morning to greet them and hung out encouraging them all through the day. I spent time with the teen leaders helping them navigate through challenges they had not faced before. With a little coaching, they did very well. I could have worked in my garden pulling weeds. My house would look better now.

Then it hit me! I am not tending my garden. I am tending God’s garden. If I pull weeds in my garden, they will return in a week. If I plant seeds in God’s garden, the will bloom into eternity. So it’s My Garden vs. God’s garden. Which should I choose? Thursday at VBS is commitment day. That is the day when we ask the kids if they want to enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ. During Bible time, the Gospel Message is presented and the kids are asked if they want to accept Jesus as their friend and invite Him into their hearts. It was my privilege to speak with the second and third graders and pray with those who decided to accept the invitation. Sixteen kids stood up to go with us to learn more and pray to receive Jesus. All sixteen prayed the prayer that day. I guess you could say there were sixteen new flowers in God’s garden. These flowers can go on to change the world for the better. I made an investment that will pay dividends for the Kingdom into eternity. The weeds will always be there. But the Angels are singing for the sixteen. And who knows that those sixteen will not remember their time at VBS when they met their Lord and take vacation time to participate at VBS in the future. Then they too will add flowers to God’s garden. It may yield a hundred fold. Praise God! So, today, why not go and plant seeds in God’s garden yourself? The growth may amaze you.

Lord, thank You for the honor of sharing You with others. Thank You for the opportunity to serve the kids and lead them to know You. You call us to make disciples. Give us the words we need to say and the opportunity. Open hearts and minds to hear the message. Draw people to You. The heavens declare Your glory. Help us to do the same and share that glory with everyone we meet. In Your name we pray.

For more insight, read Mark 4:1-20

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What will you reap?

Posted on August 10, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ephesians 6:7-8
7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.

God will not be mocked! People think they can do things and get away with it if they are careful. When Adam and Eve sinned, they tried to hide from God. God is omniscient and omnipresent. You are not hiding from Him. Even though He asked “Adam, where are you?”; He knew. He also knew what they had done.

What goes around comes around is the worldly expression. Ephesians says you will reap what you sow. With that in mind, shouldn’t you sow good things? The golden rule says “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Isn’t that a good way to live your life? What about this sow to the flesh vs. to the Spirit. There is a difference between worldly and Spiritual things. Being in the flesh is our sinful nature with greed and selfishness leading the charge. Being in the Spirit is working in the way God calls us to go. It is doing things according to God’s will. Being in God’s will is always the best for us as it leads us closer to Him. God has blessings He desires to pour into your life. Living in the Spirit will release those blessings. So what do you want to reap? Are you interested in corruption or everlasting life? Remain in the Spirit and reap the benefits. God has more blessings than you can ask for or imagine waiting for you when you walk with Him! It is the best way to go.

Today, as you go through the world, spread goodness, kindness, gentleness, self control and patience. Greet people with a smile. Learn your server’s name and use it when you thank them. Notice people and make them feel important. Ask how people are doing and really listen to the answer. You could be part of someone else’s miracle. How will you find out if you don’t pay attention? Go out to be a blessing. If someone doesn’t have a smile, give them one of yours. That is living in the Spirit. That is loving God’s creation. That is sowing in the Spirit and the benefits you will reap will last forever.

Lord, we want to live a life that will bring glory to You. Many will mock us for following You. Strengthen us that we may walk in Your ways no matter what the world thinks. Help us to sow seeds of grace, compassion and love so that we may reap the same. Pour out Your blessings upon us. Draw us closer to You that we may live with You forever. In Your name we pray! Amen!

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God’s Timing is Perfect!

Posted on August 9, 2016 by Robert Springer

Galatians 4:4 (NKJV)
4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law,

God has a plan. Most of the time, we don’t understand. He could have sent Jesus at any time but He chose the right time and place. But when the fullness of time has come, God will initiate that plan. Things seem to just happen out of nowhere. To us, it seems strange but as we look back, we see how things fit together perfectly. Habakkuk 2:3 ESV says “For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.” God has a plan!

God sends what you need when you need it even though you may not even know the need yet. Dogs appearing, working late, traffic and other things are all God’s timing. He needs to get you where you need to be in His plan at the precise time He wants you there for His reasons. Maybe it is to meet the love of your life. Perhaps he knows you need a faithful companion to cheer you up. He might want you to meet someone who will benefit your future. Or, you might be the answer to someone’s miracle and your gifts and talents are just what they need. Whatever the reason, God has a plan.

Taco appeared at a time that we needed a dog. Our first foster son found him in a park just before coming to visit us for the weekend. I did not want him to bring the dog because I know I would be “stuck” with him if I allowed the visit. I never want another dog because of the pain of losing them. I am always the one who takes them to be put down when needed and it hurts. You know the rest of the story. Taco, a 4 pound Chihuahua, came to live with us for the next two years. He needed a home and we (according to God) needed a dog. Who rescued who? What a sap I am for a cute puppy face.

We lost Taco two years later but he passed peacefully with a smile on his face. Our friends lost their dog and were devastated. I know how they feel. Been there; done that; got the tee shirt! I wrote an Encouragement Daily about the loss of a pet and a funny thing happened. Another friend wrote and shared her story about a dog appearing in her life at a time she needed comfort and remained with her for years to be her faithful friend. She wrote me this long story which brought tears to my eyes which salted my breakfast. She is smart enough to know Puppy was a gift from God to help her along the road. I believe that dogs are angels that God sends to care for and protect us as we walk this life and face challenges. The look of a dog’s eyes speaks to us in ways words cannot even touch. I see God in Milo, our present resident canine angel (a.k.a. Smilo – he actually smiles). Be open to the things God sends into your life. He knows what you need before you know. He always gives you what is best for you even though you may not like it. But remember, God has a plan!

Lord God, thank You for Your plan to bless us in all things. You refine us through trials but help us along the way. You send us what we will need to pass through the valley to the table You have prepared for us on the other side. Thank You that you send Your furry angels to walk with us and make the journey more pleasing. They show us what unconditional love really means. Help us to love like that. In Your name we pray! Amen!

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Do All Good Dogs Go To Heaven?

Posted on August 8, 2016 by Robert Springer

Job 12:7 and 10
“Ask the animals, and they will teach you…In God’s hand is the life of every creature, and the breath of all mankind.”

Job tells us that the animals will teach us about God and His love. For each and every creature, us included, is in the palm of His hand. We all matter.

Have you ever wondered if your pet will be with you in heaven? You are not alone. Many people think animals do not have a soul and do not go to heaven. Solomon said in Ecclesiastes 3:19: “After all, the same fate awaits human beings and animals alike. One dies just like the other. They are the same kind of creature…. The God who created us created each animal as He wanted them to be. And all of creation is under the curse of sin. Romans 8 tells us 20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. All of creation can also be redeemed and Christ came to accomplish that redemption. It is done!

God loves all His creation. Matthew 6:26 says 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. He loves the birds of the air and the puppies of the ground as much as He loves you. We all matter to Him. He puts these beautiful creatures into our lives at just the right time. A time when we need them. Milo came to us just after we lost Taco. I didn’t want another dog but God had other plans.

Our Lord wants us all to be with Him where He is. He is at the right hand of God the Father. And we get to go there to with Duchess and Becky and Danny and Rocky and Benjamin and Teddy and Taco and Rufus and all of our beloved friends. To err is human; to forgive is canine!

Thank You Lord for all our four footed friends! They are awesome. They come into our lives to rescue us rather than be rescued. And each one is perfect for our needs. Thank you that dogs got to be our best friends by wagging their tails and not their tongues. Help us to appreciate the incredible gift You have given us with each one of our pets. In Jesus name we pray.

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Unimpeachable!

Posted on August 7, 2016 by Robert Springer

Acts 1:8 (NKJV)
8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

What kind of witness are you? If you saw an event take place, would you be able to accurately describe what you saw? Are you a witness for Jesus? If you are going to be a witness for Jesus, what type of witness should you be? Thomas, the apostle, had his doubts about Jesus. He had to be convinced and Jesus knew it. But once he had the facts, he became the ultimate witness. Thomas had seen for himself the proof with his own eyes. He saw the wounds himself. And he declared “My Lord and my God.” There was no more doubt! He became unimpeachable.

Jesus asked us to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth. You and I have not seen the wounds in His hands and side. How will we witness to His identity? We have His Word, the Bible. Many say it is just an old book but science is discovering and proving the things it contains. Lee Strobel set out to disprove the Bible and found himself a believer in the process. What about you? Do you believe? Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:1) We were not eyewitnesses to the miracles but we have the testimony [the Bible] of those who were. Are you convinced? If not, study the information. I did and found it compelling. Seek answers to those nagging questions. All who seek shall find. And when you find your answers, share the good news with the world. The Bible has stood the test of time because it is the truth; God’s truth! Know for sure that He loved you! For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) Know in your heart that He is your Savior, Friend and Lord. And be unimpeachable! Know the truth and that truth shall set you free.

Lord, we thank You for Your truth. It remains the same no matter how many times we tell it because it is the truth. Open hearts and minds to Your message and help us by giving us the words people need to hear. Help us to speak Your truth in love. And may our message be accepted bringing glory to Your precious name. Amen!

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What if I try and fail?

Posted on August 6, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ephesians 6:9-10
9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Have you ever not tried something because you were afraid you would fail and it would not come out right? Failure is not such a bad thing. Failure is the stepping stone to success. Thomas Edison had 10,000 failures in the incandescent lamp but you remember attempt 10,001. What if he had said enough and quit! We might be in the dark. When interviewed, he said he had not failed, he had just discovered 10,000 ways it would not work. Now that is the right attitude.

Are you surrounded by people who say things like “we tried that once and it didn’t work?” How about the ones with “we’ve always done it this way.” There are those who would stifle creativity and progress. Try to avoid them if you can although that may be hard especially if you work with them or they are your family. But you do have the right to ignore negative comments and continue on the path to your destiny. God has a great plan for your life. He has given you all that you need to reach that destiny. All you have to do is keep trying.

When I was a kid, I failed a few times. Alright, I failed a lot. My Mom was frustrated by my out-of-the-box ideas. I am of the “wait ‘til your father gets home” generation. I had to suffer the anguish of waiting. So Dad was home for breakfast since he worked late. My Dad was an encouraging guy of few words. You know what he said? “You’ll do better next time!” That was it. He knew I would fail at things but he wanted me to go on to success. Don’t stop at failure. Do not grow weary while doing good! Success can be just around the corner. Don’t Give UP!

Father, thank You that You have a great plan for our life. Lead us through the hard times on our way to the blessings You have stored up for us. Remind us that good awaits and give us the passion and the stamina to keep going. Thank You for all You have done for us. Help us to do good for others in Your name.

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Are Your Requests Bold Enough?

Posted on August 5, 2016 by Robert Springer

Acts 3:6 (NKJV) 6 Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.”

This man asked for alms but received a miracle instead. Peter and John were on their way to the Temple at the ninth hour which was the hour of prayer. They encounter a beggar at the gate looking for a handout. He looked at Peter and John hoping they would give him something. They saw him and asked him to look at them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” For what do you ask? Is it enough?

God wants to bless you with more than you can ask or imagine. He has blessings stored up with your name on them and longs to give them to you. He created a universe to support you. He has written your name on the palms of His hands. And yet, you ask for a few coins or a crust of bread. You are an heir with Christ to the Kingdom of God! You ask for alms. You have not because you ask not! All these blessing of which I speak; they are yours for the asking. But the key is you need to ask. For what do you ask? Are your requests bold? John 14:13-14 (NKJV) says 13 And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything in My name, I will do it . And you ask for alms. I want to point out the “whatever you ask in My name” part. This addresses your motive. Why are you asking? Is it selfish desire or are you wanting to help others? Yes, there are things that you need for yourself. God wants you to be blessed. When you ask for things that will benefit others as well, God desires to open the floodgates of heaven and pour out more blessings than you have room to handle. Boldly come before the Throne of grace and ask your Heavenly Father for the things He wants you to have. Live in the center of His will and be blessed through His grace. You are His beloved child. You are the Prince or Princess. Walk boldly before your Father and ask for His blessing. In Jesus name!

Thank you Father that You bless us daily with much more than we deserve. It is by Your grace that we live. Show us Your grace and compassion and help us to pass them on to others so they will know that we are Your followers. Let our light, the light You gave us, shine into the lives of others and may we be a blessing to many. All this to bring glory to You. Amen!

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Create your own team!

Posted on August 4, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 A cord of three strands is not easily broken..
9 Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor.
10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls,
For he has no one to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm;
But how can one be warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.
And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Our culture boasts about being a loner. I can do it myself! You hear about the self-made man so often. People work from home during the day so they don’t see anyone. We text rather than talk. Our society is going in that direction. Is that a good thing? Are we meant to be alone? God didn’t think so! In Genesis 2:18, it says “18 And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” So we were designed to have a comparable helper. Things always go better with help.

Today’s verse teaches us that it is better to work with another because there will be a good reward for their labor. My expression is that two people working together will accomplish as much as five people working alone. There is synergy in teamwork. There is also safety in numbers. Two can stand back to back and protect themselves. But teamwork also makes me think of marriage. This is the ultimate partnership. The two shall become one flesh. That was the Lord’s design. He knew that two are better than one. How about you? Are you aware that it is better not to be alone? Aside from the human companionship, God is always with you. You are the apple of His eye and He always keeps you in His view. So what position will you take? Are you better being a loner or do you want to share your life with someone? Do you have really close friends? Is there someone special in your life? Do you know your Lord well? If not, He is ready and waiting to meet you. You, your spouse and your Lord are a cord of three strands that is not quickly broken.  In fact, the bond with your Lord will never be broken. He will love you forever. Give Him that chance, will you?

Lord, thank You that You created a helper for us and that You are always with us. With You, all things are possible. Help us to be in fellowship with others and to live our lives according to your design. Thank You that we have You to help us. Thank You that You have a special someone ordained for us so that we will not be alone. In Your name we pray!

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Are you really ever alone?

Posted on August 3, 2016 by Robert Springer

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV)
6 Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Variants of courage appear 23 times in the Bible. Strong appears 36 times. Apparently, God wants us to be strong and courageous. But that is not always easy to do. We get scared that we cannot handle the situation. We worry. Worry is a tool of the accuser. God tells us in this verse the He is always with us. He is our Helper. Romans 8:31 says “if God be for you, who can be against you?” God is for you.

Are you lonely today? The Lord will never leave nor forsake you. The Lord will walk with you wherever you go. Even knowing that, we still sometimes need human companionship. We cannot see God so we think He is not there. What about having another person walking by our side? It makes things easier. I have always said that two people working together can accomplish as much as five people working alone. Today, my Pastor stated the he was working alone as the other Pastors were out of town for various reasons. I reminded him of my offer to help with the services any time he needed with the caveat that anything he wanted me to read be at least 18 point font. He worked alone because he did not ask. Do you ask for help? You have not because you ask not (James 4:3). Why don’t you ask? What would you attempt if you knew you could not fail? If you ask others to work with you, between you all (or y’all), you will have all the talents and experience you need to succeed. You will not fail!

In the Footprints Poem, the person asks God why he was alone at the most trying times of his life since there were only one set of footprints. God replies “It was then that I carried you.” God is always there to carry you when things get tough. God goes before you and with you always. He is your Helper, your Friend, your Provider, and your loving Heavenly Father. He wants the best for you and will lead you to it if you let Him. Are you alone? You may be physically but not Spiritually. The Lord Your God goes with you and holds you fast with His righteous right hand. Rest secure knowing you are loved and never alone!

Lord God, thank You that You are always with us. Help us to be strong and courageous in the face of the opposition we face each day. Remind us that You are for us and we can stand by Your power. Use Your love to drive out our fear. Let Your Spirit remind us of that love always. In Your name we pray! Amen!

Footprints poem: http://www.footprints-inthe-sand.com/index.php?page=Poem/Poem.php

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Picture this!

Posted on August 2, 2016 by Robert Springer

Isaiah 41:13 (NKJV)
13 For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, Saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’

You are special! If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. On our refrigerator are a multitude of pictures of things important to us from family and friends. There are wedding invitations. There are cards we received and other things that are important to us in life. What do you think God’s refrigerator would look like? Would He have all the things important to Him? It would be a mighty big refrigerator then because you are important to Him.

Sometimes, I don’t feel as I matter to anyone. I get in those moods where everything seems tough and I feel I am working alone. Do you have those times? Days where everything seems to be more difficult than it should be. Multiple issues come up at what seems the worst possible time. The whole world seems to be against you. It is one of those days. You could become discouraged. But God has another plan.

Remember when you were a kid and things did not go well? If you had a bad day at school, you would come home and tell your parent. You did not even have to tell them; they already knew by your sagging shoulders. What did they do? They sat with you, listened to your story and made you something special to eat. Most likely, they held your hand. Isaiah tells us that God will hold our hand. Our Heavenly Father will not only hold our hand but He will help us! The Creator of the universe will come to your aid! What could be better than that? Is there anything He cannot do? Whatever challenge you face, He has the answer. And He tells you that He will help you! There is no reason to worry. You can do all things through Him who gives you strength. He has already offered the help so asking should be easy. Are you asking Him for help? Do you have conversations with God letting Him know what you face? He will give you what you need to face what He asks you to face. You are never alone. For the Lord your God will hold your right hand and quell all your fears if you let Him. Take His hand and let him!

Father, Your promises are sure and You are faithful. Thank You that You care enough to hold our hand and help us through life’s challenges. We couldn’t do it without You. Help us to realize we never walk alone. Answer us when we call. Help us to call often and to dwell in the center of Your love. In your name we pray. Amen!

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I blew it!

Posted on August 2, 2016 by Robert Springer

Jonah 1:1-11 Selected (NIV) Jonah Flees From the Lord
1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”
3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. …… to flee from the Lord.
4 Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up……15 Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm….. 17 Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights……. Jonah 3  Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.” 3 Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh……… 10 When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened. Jonah 4 But to Jonah this seemed very wrong [the death of the plant and the forgiving of Nineveh], and he became angry….. 10 But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow……. 11 And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people…………?”

Jonah did not listen to the Lord but decided to go his own way. Jonah did not want to preach to the Ninevites because he did not want to offer them God’s forgiveness. After all, anytime God sends His Prophet to a people, it is for them to repent and be forgiven. Jonah did not feel the Ninevites deserved forgiveness. Nevertheless, God will be obeyed. He saved Jonah with a huge fish who would deliver him on to the shore where he would be asked again to go to Nineveh. Our God is a God of second and many chances.

So you blew it! You made a big mistake and now you look really bad. You are embarrassed to face God. After all, you don’t deserve another chance, do you? Do you think God has enough compassion to redeem you? When Peter asked Jesus how many times a person should forgive another, Jesus said “seventy times seven.” That is 490 times and I think that means for the same issue. In other words, keep forgiving them. If the standard is for man to forgive 490 times, how many times will God forgive you? With God, there is always forgiveness. But even better, there is redemption. It is like it never happened. Jonah disobeyed God, was redeemed and then became angry with God for forgiving the Ninevites. Can you imagine that? Can you imagine being angry with God for forgiving someone else? I guess Jonah did not think they deserved forgiveness. What about you? Do you deserve forgiveness? The truth is none of us deserve forgiveness. It is God’s gift that He freely gives to those with a contrite heart. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

God has compassion for all of His creation. Sin caused a curse on mankind and all of creation with them. But the good news is that redemption is available for all of creation as well. God is willing to forgive us today. All we need do is confess, repent and ask. The confession and repentance part is the tough part. But go ahead and give it a try. But by the blood of Christ (the Cross), you are holy, righteous and redeemed. Turn away from your mistakes and toward the destiny and blessing God has stored up for you. You may have blown it but God can repair the damage and turn your scars into stars. The Cross already won the war! Turn to Him and let Him help. In Jesus name we pray!

Greater by Mercyme

There’ll be days I lose the battle Grace says that it doesn’t matter Cause the cross already won the war

I am learning to run freely Understanding just how he sees me And it makes me love him more and more

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXI0B4iMLuU

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Words are powerful!

Posted on August 2, 2016 by Robert Springer

Romans 10 Selected (NKJV)
13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace,
Who bring glad tidings of good things!”……….
17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Words are powerful. What you hear or listen to can make a big difference in your life. You can speak things into or out of existence. In Genesis 1, God spoke the universe into being with His words. Words are powerful! Even faith comes by hearing. Be careful what you allow into your mind through your hearing.

Paul spoke about people calling on the name of the Lord. This indicates that a person must speak the Lords name indicating the power of the spoken word. Romans 10:9 says9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. So speaking is the important part. People need to speak truth and love to themselves and others. Calling is speaking. In Spanish, what’s your name is actually “how do you call yourself?” So, how do you call yourself? Do you call yourself names? Why?

What do you speak on a daily basis? Are you speaking good things? Do your words reflect the fruit of the Spirit? We have learned that our words matter. What do you say when you talk to yourself? Are you encouraging and kind? Life can be rewarding. The words you choose can make a positive or negative difference. What would your life be like if you would use your words to change things for the better? You can you know? Speak blessings to everyone you meet. Look for something on which you can compliment someone. You can find something good to say. Even a “good morning” and a smile can make an awesome difference. Positive words improve the atmosphere wherever you are. Did you know you can control the atmosphere around you? Why not try complimenting your family, friends, co-workers and even strangers? It will make the day go better! Yes, there is power in your words.

In the same way, there is also power in my words. So today, let me speak these words over you. You are accepted, approved, anointed, blessed, chosen, empowered, enabled, favored, gifted, guided, holy, intelligent, joyful, kept, loved, a masterpiece, righteous, redeemed, strong in the Lord, talented, unsinkable and worthy! Copy this list and put it on your refrigerator. Read it daily. Add to it as you think of things. You are an awesome creation of our awesome Lord. No one has your unique gifts and talents. You were designed to bring glory to God through the work of your hands. Go out and be spectacular today and give God the glory for who He made you to be.

Lord, we thank You for all the blessings You have put into each of us. Your design is perfect. We have the right gifts and talents for the race You call us to run. Please lay out that race before us and lead us safely through the course. Let our choices along the way and our crossing the finish line bring glory to You with each step. May the words of our mouths and the meditation of our hearts be pleasing in Your ears and may our lives be a blessing to others. In Your name we pray!

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No One Can Make You Feel Inferior Without Your permission!

Posted on August 2, 2016 by Robert Springer

Jeremiah 1:4-10 ESV
Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord.”

Eleanor Roosevelt said No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. That means that you are the one who determines how you feel. Jeremiah tells us what God says about us and it is all good. Knowing how God feels about you should make you confident in yourself. Does it?

The Lord spoke to Jeremiah telling him that He appointed him to be a prophet to the nations and anointed him to do great things. All of God’s promises are promises to all His children. He went further to say that He will go with us and deliver us and we should not be afraid. If the Lord God be for us, who can stand against us? So we have the promise of God’s support. With that support, we can do what He calls us to do.

Are you afraid to do certain things because of what people might think of you? Do you think that you do not have what it takes to accomplish the goal? Do people tell you that you are too young to do something? Do you believe them? I believe that God put dreams in every heart. In addition, He equips us for the tasks necessitated by the dreams. If He calls you to be a Prophet, He will give you the words! With that in mind, why should you feel unqualified? Is it because you are not acknowledging your gifts? In some instances, I don’t know how I know something but I just know! That wisdom is a gift from God. Should I just ignore it? If I do, He will just bring it around again and again until I accept it and act. There is no way around what God destines for you. If He has destined you for great things, and He has, why not act on the dreams? Be the Prophet if so called. Go to whom you are sent. Speak to those to whom you are commanded. And do not be afraid! The Lord your God goes with you and will give you whatever you need. You are His and you are equal or greater than the task to which He calls you. Step out in faith and assurance today!

Lord, thank You that You call us to great and small things in Your name. Equip us for the tasks and give us the boldness to carry out what You ordain. Let us bring glory to You and comfort to those to whom You send us. In Your name we pray! Amen!

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What Do I Say?

Posted on July 29, 2016 by Robert Springer

1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

What if someone asked you about your relationship with Christ? What would you say? Many people I know are not prepared to share their faith with others. Peter tells us we are to always be prepared to speak with people about the hope we have in Christ. Most are not! Are you?

Do you have a relationship with Jesus? When you wake up in the morning, is there music in your heart? Is there a spring in your step? Do people wonder why you are always so happy? If not, why not? In the song Multiply by NeedtoBreath, it says God’s love is like radiant diamonds bursting inside us, we cannot contain. Is God’s love bursting inside you? Do you have trouble keeping it inside? That is a good thing. It will let you live the life God intended for you. He wants you to be excited and happy. He came that you may have life and have it abundantly. Would you like to live an abundant life on every level? That is what He wants for you. If you live that kind of life, do you think people will notice? When they ask you why you are so happy, what will you tell them? Since I know you want to live the abundant life and I know people are going to ask about why, shouldn’t you prepare now to give them an answer? After all, the abundant life is coming.

How can you learn what to say? Firstly, it is just a conversation. What is your story? Your personal story of who God is in your life and how you feel about Him is what to share. It does not have to be complicated. Just tell people about how you felt before and how you feel now. Second, there are courses and resources to help you frame that story.

In my life, I have developed a patience that astounds me. I have learned to speak with love. I have learned to see things that I could not see before. I hear what is behind what people are saying. God now reveals things to me I would have never noticed before. I have an attitude of gratitude that flavors my whole life. How about you? What’s your story? Can you share the story? That is all you need do. Be real! Be honest! Be who God made you to be! Be you! You are awesome!

Lord, thank You that you offer us an abundant life. Help us to share with others all the blessings You have given us. Make us bold to tell others what You have done for us. Give us the words and the opportunity to speak them. In your name we pray. Amen!

The Four Spiritual Laws: http://www.mesacc.edu/~thoqh49081/handouts/bright.html
http://www.christianbook.com/have-heard-four-spiritual-laws-tracts/bill-bright/9781563990199/pd/990199

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It is You?

Posted on July 28, 2016 by Robert Springer

2 Samuel 12:4-9 Selected (NKJV)
4 And a traveler came to the rich man, who refused to take from his own flock and from his own herd to prepare one for the wayfaring man who had come to him; but he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.”
5 So David’s anger was greatly aroused against the man, and he said to Nathan, “As the Lord lives, the man who has done this shall surely die! 6 And he shall restore fourfold for the lamb, because he did this thing and because he had no pity.”
7 Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! Thus says the Lord God of Israel: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul……9 Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his eyes?

Do you do the right thing? When someone comes to you to speak about an issue they have with something you have done, what is your position? Are you defensive? Do you try to cover up your faults? This is a story about King David and one of his failures. And David was considered a man after God’s own heart. The Bible does not show us perfect people.

In this story, the Prophet Nathan went to King David to confront him about Bathsheba and Uriah. Nathan tells David a story about a rich man who steals a lamb from a poor man’s flock rather than use his own. When the story is told to him, David is incensed by the arrogance of the man who would take something that belonged to another use it as his own. He vows punishment for this misdeed. Then, Nathan reveals that David himself it the culprit. As great as David was, he still had faults. Even though God would punish David for this wrongful act, He would still redeem David.

What about us? Do we have faults? Why would a perfect God want anything to do with imperfect people? Because His grace, mercy, love and compassion overshadow His judgment! While He wants us to strive to be more like Jesus, He still knows how we were made. He knows our hearts are deceitful. He knows we cannot meet the standards He set which are perfection. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of people who fall short of the mark and sin. Yet God redeems them! He offers the same redemption to us today. His grace, mercy, love and compassion eclipse any judgment we deserve. We are His children, made in His image, and He is our loving Heavenly Father. Today, walk in the grace He offers. Be bold. Be loved. Be redeemed! Be radiant!

Father, thank You that Your love for us overshadows all else. Thank You that You made a way for us to return to You if we make a mistake. We know that perfection is the goal but compassion is Your practice. Help us to strive to be more like Your Son but catch us when we fall as You know we will. Remind us of Your ways and let Your Spirit guide us in them. In Your name we pray.

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Why are things so tough?

Posted on July 27, 2016 by Robert Springer

1 Peter 5:8 (NKJV)
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

Life is tough! There is no doubt about that. Many are struggling asking where God is in the midst of all this trouble. Have you ever wondered why God allows things to happen? What if it is not God that is letting all these bad things happen? What if there was someone else causing all these challenges? What if we had an adversary who was doing things to harm us? There is! And his name is Satan, the accuser, the serpent, the evil one and many other terms. I have been told by a Pastor that she did not believe in Satan. I find there are more and more people who feel the same way. They totally discount that someone could be sabotaging their life. In fact, when I mention the adversary, I can see people sort of back away and question my sanity. Do you believe Jesus and what he says? Well Jesus said in Luke 10:18 (NIV) 18 He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. If Jesus said it, I believe it. We are fighting in the Spiritual realm. Let us make sure we have on the full armor of God and use the tools he has given us.

Peter warns about the activity of our adversary. He tells us that Satan prowls around like a roaring lion looking for whom he can devour. You are prey for him. He works as hard as he can to disrupt your life hoping to make you angry with God and drive a wedge into your relationship. If things are going badly, you will be upset with God because you think He allowed the difficulty. Just as the serpent deceived Eve, he works today to deceive you. In many cases, it is working. Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) warns 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. This is not an ordinary battle. You cannot fight this one on your own!

So what is encouraging about fighting in a spiritual battle against a fierce enemy? Just the fact that we are given everything we need to stand in the battle. We are given the armor to protect us. We are never subjected to a temptation beyond what we can handle. God allowed Job to go through all he faced because it would refine him and Job glorified God in the process. Job said “I know my Redeemer lives.” God gave him double what he had before. God loves you and will always work things for your good. The trials are there to refine you, not to harm you. A kite only rises against the wind. Be thankful you are being tested. It means you are on the path to the destiny God has ordained for you. You are closing in on victory.

We thank You Father that You are always there for us even when we don’t see You at work. We know that the end is victory. You prevail and You have a place for each of us in Your plan. Draw us to You and place Your hedge of protection around us this day and every day. We know we need to be refined but be gentle with us in that process. But most of all, Your will be done! In Jesus name we pray. Amen!

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Are you listening?

Posted on July 26, 2016 by Robert Springer

1 Samuel 3:7-11 (NKJV)
7 (Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, nor was the word of the Lord yet revealed to him.)
8 And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. So he arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you did call me.” Then Eli perceived that the Lord had called the boy. 9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, ‘Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!”
And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears [listens].”
11 Then the Lord said to Samuel: “Behold, I will do something in Israel at which both ears of everyone who hears it will tingle.

Speak Lord, for Your servant listens. Is that your attitude? Are you listening for the will of the Lord? Samuel was the son of Hannah, a women who prayed to God for the blessing of a son as she was barren. She promised that, if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord. Samuel was a disciple of Eli, the Head Priest at the Temple, at this time because Hannah kept her promise. And God spoke to Samuel. The important part was that Samuel heard God! God speaks to many but few hear His words. Do you hear God’s words? If you hear Him, how do you answer? If you are like me, you probably ignore what you hear hoping it will go away. Here is a news flash. It will not go away. God will continue to call and He will become progressively more persistent. His word will not be thwarted!

It was Eli who understood that the Lord was calling. Eli had probably never heard the call himself. Eli was not the best person because he had ignored the corruption of his sons and had fallen away from the Lord. And yet, Eli was the one who recognized the Lord’s call to Samuel. Samuel was to be a Prophet of the Lord God of Israel. Samuel did not yet “know” the Lord but that was about to change. God decided to reveal Himself to Samuel because He wanted to do a new thing in Israel. One of those things was to overthrow the leadership of the corrupt Eli and family. But there were other things to which He would call Samuel. Samuel was the Prophet who would anoint David as King and be a powerful voice to Israel. It would be good for you to read 1 & 2 Samuel and see how the Lord worked in the lives of His people. God always blesses the obedient.

Do you hear God’s calls in quiet little ways but try to ignore them? Are there things you know God wants you to do but you are afraid of what others will think? Do you think you should listen to God or man? I have come to a place in my Spiritual Life where I care about what God thinks. It is more important to do what God asks because it always works out best. When you follow God’s plan for your life, it will yield blessing upon blessing. 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NKJV) 9 But as it is written:
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”  Listening to God and following His lead makes all things possible. It is the blessed life we all want. The Lord longs to bless us in ways we cannot even imagine. Following His Word will give us the opportunity to live in those blessings. Do you live in the fruit of the Spirit? Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) says 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. How would you like to have all these things? I would be happy with self-control. You can if you will follow the Lord. When He calls, say “speak Lord, for Your servant listens!”

Lord, help us to hear and obey Your call. The world drowns out Your call these days. Teach us to cut through the noise and hear the clarion call to Your ways. Strengthen us to be able to follow You rather than the world. Bless us with Your leading so we might do what is right in Your eyes rather than our own. Help us to please You rather than ourselves. In Your name we pray! Amen!

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Thanks for being a doubting Thomas!

Posted on July 25, 2016 by Robert Springer

John 20:26-29 (NKJV)
26 And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, “Peace to you!” 27 Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.”
28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

What causes people to doubt? Is doubt always a bad thing? The most famous doubter in history was the disciple Thomas. He was not with the others when Jesus appeared to them the first time. The disciples told him they had seen the Lord but Thomas would not believe unless he saw Jesus for himself. The Lord gave him that chance and gave him the proof he needed eight days later. Thomas got to see and touch Jesus. Jesus did not chastise Thomas for doubting but answered his questions. Could it be that Jesus wanted to build up Thomas as an unimpeachable witness?

So Thomas became an eye witness to Jesus resurrection. In a court, much credibility is given to an eye witness to a crime. Therefore, much credibility goes to Thomas because he has now “seen” Jesus. Thomas did not want to be fooled. Once he had the proof he needed, he came to a dramatic conclusion. Thomas said “My Lord and my God!” Thank you Thomas!

Seeing is believing isn’t it? We believe that to which we are eye witnesses more so than what we hear. But Jesus was going to return to His Father soon and needed to establish His witnesses here on earth. These witnesses were to be Jesus witnesses to “the ends of the earth.” They better be really sure in their belief, hadn’t they? So Jesus went to people who had a reputation for researching things to be sure. People who were known to share only the truth they had proven. Such was Thomas. He wasn’t taking anybody’s word for it. He would investigate for himself. He would get to the bottom of the story. If Thomas said so, you could take it to the bank. Now that Thomas had done his research, what conclusion had he reached? Thomas was certain Jesus was who He said. Thomas declared Jesus his Lord and God. Thank you Thomas. Now, I have no questions. I can trust your observations.

Have you seen Jesus? I hope to see Him someday but as yet, I have not. And yet, I believe He is my Lord, my Savior and my Friend. How can I make that observation? I believe because of the writing of trustworthy people who themselves cared enough to make sure the story was true. They sought the proof I would need so I can just believe. Romans 10:17 says So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. We get to hear the story and know it is true because we cannot touch His hands and His side. Thomas has done that for us! Blessed be the ones who doubt for they will be seekers of the truth and that truth will be, for us, a blessing!

Lord, thank You for the doubters of this world who will become seekers of the truth. You are that Truth. We are blessed to know You through the work of those who got to see and touch you and wrote down Your Word. As they wrote it down for us to read, I ask You to write Your story on our hearts. In Jesus name we pray!

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Who is in your heart?

Posted on July 25, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ephesians 3:14-19
14 For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, speaks about Christ dwelling in our hearts through faith. When He dwells in us, we will be grounded in love because God is love. It is beyond our comprehension the magnitude of that love. We just have to try to understand. Jesus said in John 15, “Greater love has no one that this, than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” We are His friends if we put our faith and trust in Him.

This week, I was at Vacation Bible School Sports Camp. I spent the week with young people from four to twenty four. The campers were four to ten with older youth as leaders and volunteers. It was awesome to watch the growth in all the age groups. The kids are learning new things and growing in the Lord. The leaders are gaining confidence as they help build the younger ones. The adults are gaining love and respect for the youth while helping them guide the younger ones. And the organizers are seeing the fruits of their labors come to fruition remembering why we do this in the first place. It is a wonderful time all around.

Thursday is the day we invite the kids into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Things all week have been leading up to this moment. The Lord has helped us prepare for a time when He will knock at the door of their hearts and ask to be let in. This will be the beginning of a loving friendship that will last for eternity. He will never leave nor forsake any of us if we invite Him in. The Sports Ministry Team did a great job of setting the stage and explaining what it means to follow a Risen Lord. Now the time has come for us to ask the question. “Do you want to start an eternal friendship with Jesus?”

What about you? Do you have such a friendship? Times look dark. Your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. But God is still on the throne. When the outlook isn’t so good, try the uplook. It is always better. Put your faith and trust in the One who will always be your friend and always love and protect you!

At the moment after the introduction and invitation, the kids are invited to join us in another room to answer any questions and to go through the 4 steps to God. We tell them that God loves them (and you), that we are all sinners, that Jesus paid the price for those sins and that, now, we can receive the gift of His grace and forgiveness by inviting Him into our hearts. He will be our Lord, Savior and Friend forever. I got the chance, with God’s help, to explain that to sixteen second and third graders who said they wanted to begin a friendship with Jesus. It was awesome. At a time when the world spews hatred, sixteen young ones in my group entered into a loving relationship which will change them forever. They became children of God. There were others in the rest of the grades as well. God showed us again the height and width and depth of His love and continues to offer it daily. I know how dark things look at times. I ask you today to look toward the Light. The Light of the world loves you. Shine today letting that Light which is inside you burst out!

Father, thank You that You wait patiently for each one of your children to come to You. You do not force Your way in but gently knock at the door of our hearts hoping that we will open the door and invite You in. Thank You that many kids threw open the door yesterday. We pray that many more children of all ages will open the door today, that You may abide with them too! In Your name we pray! Amen!

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To What Were You Called?

Posted on July 23, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ephesians 4:11-13
11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;

Paul tells us about the callings Jesus gave His disciples. Each of these callings are for building up the Body of Christ. To do that, the saints need to be equipped. Part of the shortcoming of the Church as a whole today is the lack of training. We ask people to share the Good News but we don’t teach them how.

What were you called to be? There are a lot of different things out there but glorifying God through the talents he has given you is where to begin. I was called to be an apostle and a teacher. Our Church asks us to make disciples who make disciples. I feel drawn to that. In order for that to work, we must first reach out to new people in Jesus name. I guess I also see myself as an evangelist because I have a heart for leading people to Jesus.

Once we enter into a relationship with Christ, He will transform us into who He wants us to be. But for us to be able to reach out to others, we will need training. That is where the gift of teaching becomes important. God has given me the ability to teach others His ways and how to share the Gospel. We need to equip the saints for the work of ministry. God always gives you what you need to do whatever He asks you to do. He will never leave nor forsake you. He sent His Son to walk with you!

So what about you? What blessings has God given you? Are you an apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor or teacher or something else? God has many blessings that He pours out on His people. Are you one of His children? Have you accepted His offer and His gifts? If not, will you come into a relationship with Him today? He stands at the door and knocks. It is a simple process of four steps. Why not take those steps now and join the family of faith? Go to http://www.4stepstogod.com/ and take the steps. When you do, you will be transformed into what He calls you to be slowly, day by day until you come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God. Then, you will know and be prepared for your calling! You will be holy, righteous and redeemed in His name and by His grace!

Lord, thank You for Your gift of grace! Thank You that You call us into relationship with You. Entering into that relationship transforms us into who You want us to be. We become equipped, empowered and anointed with the special gifts You have for each of us. Thank You for Your love that sent Your Son to give Himself for us even before we knew You. Let Your transformation take place in us to share that love and become all You call us to be. Above all, may we bring glory to You and build the Body of Christ! In Jesus name we pray!

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Everyone Needs a Friend!

Posted on July 22, 2016 by Robert Springer

1 Samuel 18:1-3 (NKJV)
18 Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 Saul took him that day, and would not let him go home to his father’s house anymore. 3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.

Jonathan and David were more like brothers than friends. In 1 Samuel 18, it tells us that their souls were knit together and Jonathan loved David as himself. Jesus told us to love your neighbor as yourself. David and Jonathan had that kind of love. Everyone wants to have a real friend like that, don’t they? I know I do. In fact, I had such a friend in Carmen for many years until his passing.

Have you ever gone to camp with kids you don’t know? There you were in a place with all new kids wondering if anyone will like you? When you are little, it is very scary. But it is even a factor when you grow up. We all still wonder if people will like us. But what if they don’t? Not everyone will like us. I heard an interesting statistic. 25% of people will never like you. 25% of people will not like you but can be convinced to like you. 25% of people will like you but can be convinced not to like you. 25% of people will like you no matter what and all that is OK. Not everyone was destined to like you. What is important is that God loves you and you need to love yourself. Bernice Lopez (a friend I met with today) says “That’s OK. I love myself enough for the both of us.” You certainly should feel that way even if you are not willing to tell them. Love you! God already does! You are His masterpiece! All the rest comes later.

Zig Ziglar said “When you go out looking for friends they are hard to find; When you go out to be a friend, you will find friends everywhere!” So if you are concerned about being liked or finding friends, go out looking for others who may feel the same way and be a friend to them instead. When you focus outside yourself, God will send you all you need. He will bring others to you. I saw that happen today during Vacation Bible School. One young man was anxious about finding a friend. Another decided to be that friend. It was awesome! Thank You Lord!

Father, help us to let Your Spirit shine out from us so that others will be drawn to us. Let us share Your love with those we meet. Help us to become a friend to those who need a friend. And in that process, let us find friends with whom we can be a comfort to each other. Let Your light in us and Your light in them shine together to brighten our corners of the world. In your name we pray! Amen!

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Speak the Truth in Love!

Posted on July 21, 2016 by Robert Springer

Ephesians 4:14-24 Selected Verses (NKJV)
14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— ……..
17 This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind,……
20 But you have not so learned Christ, 21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

You have heard it said that we should speak the truth in love. What does that mean exactly? Some people have the opinion that the truth will offend some people and so we should not be offensive but politically correct. What does that mean? Should I be politically correct or right with God? Others question truth. They say there is no absolute truth. They say it is all relative. Does that mean it pertains to family? If it is all relative, there is no right and wrong. There is only opinion. And, of course, my own opinion is the most important, isn’t it? It reminds me of the phrase in the Old Testament where “each person did what was right in his own eyes.” That sounds like chaos to me. Should we abandon all law and just do what we think is right? In the Bible, the foolishness of this concept was proven time and time again. When Israel strayed from God’s truth, He gave them over to their foolish desires and they suffered as a consequence. So why do people want to try that again? Learn from the mistakes of others; you don’t have time to make them all yourself!

Speaking the truth in love is a difficult process. It is hard to figure out whether to be truthful or loving. Is it really the only choice? Do we have to be truthful or loving? Why can’t it be both? Actually, it should be both. It is not loving to not tell someone the truth. A while back, a school district told an ethnic group they were doing well in their education. Each year, they were promoted to the next grade. When they graduated, they were unprepared for higher education. The school system lied to them. They were not really doing well at all. Was it loving to lie about their education? Would it not have been more loving to tell them the truth and give them more help? Had they been told the truth about needing more help, that would have been truth and love. You can and should have both! Speak the truth in love keeping their best interest in mind!

Thank You Father for Your truth. You word is truth. You bless us through Your word which takes us down the right path. Thank You that Your plans are always for our good. You know what is best for us and lead us in that direction. Help us to be truthful with kindness, grace and compassion. In Your name we pray! Amen!

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Sponge Bob!

Posted on July 20, 2016 by Robert Springer

Colossians 3:16 (KJV)
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

What does it mean to let the word of Christ dwell in you richly? How do you know if it is even in you at all? If Christ’s word is in me, how can I enjoy it richly? What if I am new in my faith? How will I be able to grow? Paul speaks about wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another. He also mentions psalms and hymns. Could these be ways for us to grow spiritually?

I soak in God’s goodness and teaching. That has two meanings. Firstly, I absorb all I can get from God like a sponge absorbs water. I want to get to know Him better and I ask Him to teach me His ways. Secondly, I soak in God’s word as one would soak in a tub. I marinade in the juices of God’s spirit to have His teachings penetrate to the deep places in my mind, heart and soul. You might say I meditate on His word and His grace. That is how I let His word dwell in me richly! Allowing God to penetrate my ego and pride has helped to lessen them and lead me into a closer walk with Him. I find myself saying things to comfort people that are much wiser then I am, knowing that God is speaking through me. The word of Christ is coming out. It is the grace of the Lord entering my heart and giving me what is needed to be a comfort to me and others. By His word, He offers us all wisdom. All we need do is accept the gifts He provides. How about you? Do you allow God to speak to and through you? Will you ask Him for wisdom and discernment? Will you accept what He provides? If you do, you can have the Lord’s grace in your heart singing and teaching others what He has given you!

Lord, thank You for the word of Christ! May it dwell in us richly so that we can share You with others. Help us show what is like to be a follower of Jesus. May the joy You provide cause us to sing. May the Grace You give us cause us to reach out to a hurting world in love and compassion sharing the good news. In your name we pray. Amen!

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Be a Blessing

Posted on July 19, 2016 by Robert Springer

Genesis 27 Selected Verses (NKJV)
4 And make me savory food, such as I love, and bring it to me that I may eat, that my soul may bless you before I die.”……….
27 And he came near and kissed him; and he smelled the smell of his clothing, and blessed him and said:
“Surely, the smell of my son Is like the smell of a field Which the Lord has blessed.
28 Therefore may God give you Of the dew of heaven, Of the fatness of the earth,
And plenty of grain and wine. 29 Let peoples serve you, And nations bow down to you.
Be master over your brethren, And let your mother’s sons bow down to you.
Cursed be everyone who curses you, And blessed be those who bless you!”………..
33 Then Isaac trembled exceedingly, and said, “Who? Where is the one who hunted game and brought it to me? I ate all of it before you came, and I have blessed him—and indeed he shall be blessed.”

This is the story of Isaac blessing Jacob. Jacob stole the blessing from Esau as Rebecca, his mother, arranged. Both Jacob and Rebecca knew how powerful the father’s blessing was and is. Jacob’s whole future depended on receiving that blessing. Words are powerful. God created the universe, light, plants and animals and started time with His words. You bet they knew how powerful words are!

What words will you speak and to whom? Each day, you come in contact with so many people. Family, friends and coworkers plus all the people in between your destinations. Do you speak words of encouragement? How many of the people with whom you come in contact are hurting in one way or another? Which one lacks confidence? Which one has been verbally abused? Which one is afraid? What will you do to improve their situation? Speak words of blessing into the lives of those around you. Tell them they are loved. Tell them they matter. Speak to each person you meet and really listen. Ask your waiter or waitress their name. People like to hear the sound of their own name. You can be a one person encouraging machine. Do random acts of kindness! Put a smile on God’s face. He likes it when you bless others. Bless someone with your words today! You cannot be a blessing without being blessed by that act. Just as Isaac’s blessing indeed blessed Jacob, so your words can bless family, friends and even strangers.

Lord, You have blessed us in so many ways! You came to us to give us the blessing of Your presence and Your Son and spoke blessing into our lives. You offer us Your grace. Part of that grace is Your love and compassion. Help us to notice others and share Your grace with them. Lord, help us to be a blessing to those whom You love. In Your name we pray. Amen!

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