An American Missionary

“Becky was a beauty from south Alabama 
Her daddy had a heart like a nine-pound hammer 
Think he even did a little time in the slammer 
What was I thinkin'? 
I know what I was feelin' 
But what was I thinkin'... what was I thinkin’” 
 
The 2003 tongue-in-cheek song by Dierks Bentley tells the story of a young man running off with a beautiful young girl. As he was being shot at by her daddy and chased by the law he lamented his situation. Looking at her he knew what he was feeling, but wondered: “What was I thinkin’?” 
 
The triumph of emotionalism over reason is a common event in life going well beyond the relationships between boys and girls. It happens in family life, social life, politics, and religion. Most of the arguments asserting it’s our “Christian” duty to engage in large scale social work to “help” others, whether local or international, ignore the real world consequences to others (including quite often the recipients of the so-called help). We assume our help will magically “fix” messy situations despite ample evidence that real life doesn’t work that way and that our compassion, more often than not, just makes messy problems messier. Rather than stepping back to think through the situation and find a better approach, we press on, and label anyone who opposes our square peg in a round hole option as “un-christian”, cruel, and heartless. We know what we were feeling, but what were we thinking? 
 
King Ahab was the poster boy for emotionalism as his response to being called out by God was to pout and sulk and call God’s prophets ugly names. But this morning’s question is directed to King Jehoshaphat. In the line of David, he came to the throne in Judah about the same time Ahab became king in Israel. Despite being described as a good king who followed David’s example (2 Chronicles 17:3-4) he made a huge mistake that almost destroyed Judah. In a triumph of emotionalism over reason he made an alliance with Ahab, and sealed it by marrying his son to Ahab’s daughter (2 Chronicles 18:1). What was he thinking? Did he really believe joining with pagans to stabilize and strengthen his godly efforts in Judah would work? Or did his emotional desire for stability temporarily triumph over his reason? 
 
The same goes for us. Any time we consider compromising with evil people in the pursuit of good deeds we need to examine our motives. If we’re honest we will realize we’re letting emotion triumph over reason. Then we must ask: “What should we be thinking?” and look to God’s word for the answer.

“Becky was a beauty from south Alabama
Her daddy had a heart like a nine-pound hammer
Think he even did a little time in the slammer
What was I thinkin'?
I know what I was feelin'
But what was I thinkin'... what was I thinkin’”

The 2003 tongue-in-cheek song by Dierks Bentley tells the story of a young man running off with a beautiful young girl. As he was being shot at by her daddy and chased by the law he lamented his situation. Looking at her he knew what he was feeling, but wondered: “What was I thinkin’?”

The triumph of emotionalism over reason is a common event in life going well beyond the relationships between boys and girls. It happens in family life, social life, politics, and religion. Most of the arguments asserting it’s our “Christian” duty to engage in large scale social work to “help” others, whether local or international, ignore the real world consequences to others (including quite often the recipients of the so-called help). We assume our help will magically “fix” m

Emotion Triumphed Over Reason 2 Chronicles 18:1

“Full rigor mortis” is how one mom describes her six month old child’s reaction to being placed in a sitting position. To say the child is “vexed” (defined as “Irritated, distressed, or annoyed”” is an understatement. But it’s not just babies who get vexed when they don’t get their way, is it? Perhaps even some of us have felt vexed from time to time and went “full rigor mortis” at the idea of having to do something we didn’t want to do, even if we knew it’s the right thing. 
 
We’ve been looking at King Ahab in 1 Kings for some time now, and are currently in chapter 20, which ends with him going home “sullen and vexed” because he was called out for disobedience to God. It’s good to criticize Ahab, but today’s Throwback Thursday edition of Morning Minutes in the Bible on An American Missionary reaches back nearly sixty years for a reminder that our vexation at God’s rules and restrictions isn’t any less offensive than Ahab’s. 
 
 Stuff About Things by Robert F. Turner. From PLAIN TALK Magazine, October 1964. 
 
The scriptures say God sends His rain upon the just and the unjust; which prompted some wag in this dry country to say, "If He will just rain on the unjust, we could carry water for the just." In places the run-off would suffice. 
 
The Lord Himself said few were on the right road (Matt. 7:14) but no amount of warning seems to dim the appeal of the majority. We simply refuse to believe that "the many with the most" could be wrong. 
 
Noah and his family (8 souls) must have been the off-beats of his age. A little bunch of religious "crackpots" building a boat where there was no water, and before: the days of trailers. And Lot, vexed with the filthy lives of his neighbors, was a regular kill-joy in Sodom. Perhaps Caleb and Joshua were tempted to "join with the crowd" --- if not to please the ten other spies, to avoid "disturbing" the people with their minority report. But these, and other hardy souls, had the courage to stand by their convictions. The majority was wrong-- then, as it usually is now. 
 
But WHY is the majority wrong? Well, not because it is the majority. Right and wrong are not determined by numbers, great or small. The majority is usually wrong because of the way the majority usually responds to the truth, or to divine authority. 
 
(1) People, as a whole, lack faith in God. They substitute human authority for Divine, and base decisions upon fallible standards. Thus begun, there is little chance for sound, right conclusions in religion. 
 
(2) Lacking faith in God, and having not the strength to stand alone, the masses seek security in numbers. The weak flock together, and imagine themselves mighty because they travel with the crowd. But might does not make right. They travel the broad way. 
 
The solution is not an easy one. It demands independent study and action. Each must recognize his individual responsibilities before God, and find strength to act in his faith in God. The appeal of popularity -- one of the strongest known to man -- must be resisted. Compromise- so necessary in purely human affairs- must be seen as inconsistent with divine authority. We must be both humble and resolute. 
 
For man's eternal soul is at stake. 
 
Robert’s reminder is important for today’s go along to get along crowd, perhaps even me and you. If we find ourselves going home “sullen and vexed” when someone tells us the truth from God’s word then we need to wake up. And, realizing our soul is at stake, lose the full rigor mortis attitude and bend at the waist before God to do what He says.

“Full rigor mortis” is how one mom describes her six month old child’s reaction to being placed in a sitting position. To say the child is “vexed” (defined as “Irritated, distressed, or annoyed”” is an understatement. But it’s not just babies who get vexed when they don’t get their way, is it? Perhaps even some of us have felt vexed from time to time and went “full rigor mortis” at the idea of having to do something we didn’t want to do, even if we knew it’s the right thing.

We’ve been looking at King Ahab in 1 Kings for some time now, and are currently in chapter 20, which ends with him going home “sullen and vexed” because he was called out for disobedience to God. It’s good to criticize Ahab, but today’s Throwback Thursday edition of Morning Minutes in the Bible on An American Missionary reaches back nearly sixty years for a reminder that our vexation at God’s rules and restrictions isn’t any less offensive than Ahab’s.

 Stuff About Things by Robert F. Turner. From PLAIN TALK Maga

Vexed By God 1 Kings 20:43

What is the purpose of civil government? Considering the political battles raging today, as well as the history of debate and disagreement here in America one thing is clear – not everyone agrees on the answer, not even those who call themselves Christian. Despite scriptures clear declarations that governments are established by God as His “minister…for good” and “an avenger…on the one who practices evil” (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17). 
 
To our shame some religious folk focus on the “for good” part and reject the “avenger” side. Others flip that and are all for it being “an avenger” and ignore or radically restrict the “for good” part. That’s why it is a mistake for Christians to focus on politics and civil government as their path to spiritual success. We end up joining ourselves to ungodly people while fighting over how to apply force to get our way, which is not the Gospel way (2 Corinthians 10:1-6). 
 
As noted in yesterday’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on An American Missionary, there is a connection to an event involving King Ahab in 1 Kings 20 that illustrates today’s political divide and provides important lessons for us. When the Syrian army came out to battle against Israel they mistakenly thought they could win in the plain, but quickly learned that God rules everywhere (see our 1/26/22 video post). But when Ahab captured their king, he viewed the king as a peer and, focused on the flesh (pride of position), applied mercy instead of judgment (1 Kings 20:30-34). 
 
In other words Ahab refused to act as God’s instrument of “punishment of evil-doers and the praise of those who do right.” Instead he praised an evil-doer because it made him seem magnanimous and benevolent (much like many today who want to force their neighbors to accept open borders and open their neighborhoods to unvetted “refugees”, though they themselves often hypocritically live in fenced and gated neighborhoods with security guards hired to keep out those who “don’t belong” and go home to sleep safely behind locked doors). 
 
Ahab was rebuked by God’s prophet who condemned him for failing to obey His command and destroy the enemy (1 Kings 20:35-43). Thankfully we’re not under the old law, nor a theocracy, but we still have to obey God. 
The individual Christians must be kind and generous, even if it exposes us to personal danger (Matthew 25, Luke 10:30-37) – and law abiding as well. Are we willing to take personal action and risk, or do we apply hashtag help and ask the state to force our neighbors to do it for us? Or do we pay the church to fulfill our individual obligation? Or do we just let everyone do whatever they will? 
 
The duty to share the gospel is not optional either (Romans 1:15-16) and political debates detract from that work because it focuses on the flesh. Imposing so-called social justice and aggressive benevolence are one side of the carnal coin and militant law enforcement is on the other side. God’s people have mistakenly tried to use both in their effort to “convert” others, despite God’s clear prohibition (2 Corinthians 10:1-6). The apostles went about preaching the gospel message of salvation from sin and establishing churches rather than hospitals and refugee centers, or political parties and police departments. Christians can do those things, as long as they don’t join themselves with ungodly causes or groups willing to use ungodly means to accomplish good things. And remember this, it’s not the Christian’s primary purpose nor the church’s mission. Are we fulfilling our real mission, our real purpose, or, are we, like Ahab, being distracted by the flesh?

What is the purpose of civil government? Considering the political battles raging today, as well as the history of debate and disagreement here in America one thing is clear – not everyone agrees on the answer, not even those who call themselves Christian. Despite scriptures clear declarations that governments are established by God as His “minister…for good” and “an avenger…on the one who practices evil” (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17).

To our shame some religious folk focus on the “for good” part and reject the “avenger” side. Others flip that and are all for it being “an avenger” and ignore or radically restrict the “for good” part. That’s why it is a mistake for Christians to focus on politics and civil government as their path to spiritual success. We end up joining ourselves to ungodly people while fighting over how to apply force to get our way, which is not the Gospel way (2 Corinthians 10:1-6).

As noted in yesterday’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on An American Missionary, 

America’s “Sacred Duty” part 3. Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17; 1 Kings 20

Does America have a “sacred duty” to rescue every refugee because it was “founded” on Biblical principles? Many FB posts and other articles have been urging America to open its arms and borders to anyone who wants to come in. Some are going so far as to urge the removal of all barriers and the end of all immigration restrictions; to let everyone in. Some claim this is America’s “Christian” duty in fulfillment of The Lord’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) and description of His people as those who help others (Matthew 25). Many religious groups are heavily promoting this because they see it as their mission. 
 
The problem of immigration and helping oppressed people is vast and complex because we live on a vast and complex earth filled with complex people and cultures. There is no simple solution and no single option is going to please everyone. So, let me be clear: Morning Minutes in the Bible on An American Missionary cannot and will not begin to present solutions to these complex problems. First because they are matters of politics and that is not my mission. Second, it’s entirely too complex to address in just three minutes. 
 
However, that does not prevent me from saying America, as a nation, does not have a “sacred duty” to rescue any refugees because it is not a “Christian” nation. Just because the founders borrowed from the Bible in the creation of America’s governing documents does not make it “Christian.” It is a secular entity just like every other nation on earth. It is to be commended for choosing to rescue refugees because that is a good thing to do, but even then it has to use judgment and prudence because civil government’s “sacred duty” is the “punishment of evil-doers and the praise of those who do right” (1 Peter 2:13-17; Romans 13:1-7). That requires some means of determining and detaining those who are evil-doers in order to protect those who are not. But again those are political decisions beyond my mission. 
 
“What is your mission?” some may ask, and it’s a fair question. My mission is simple: to open God’s word and share it with anyone willing to listen and obey. These studies are directed at people, individuals with a heart to hear God’s word and pursue their sacred duty – “the obedience of faith” (Romans 1:5; 16:26). They are not designed to prompt political or social action. Our goal here is to learn what it means for us to “love our neighbor” and “submit to the governing authorities” on a practical, personal level. How you and I react to immigrants and immigration and our government is very personal and open to discussion. To be continued…

Does America have a “sacred duty” to rescue every refugee because it was “founded” on Biblical principles? Many FB posts and other articles have been urging America to open its arms and borders to anyone who wants to come in. Some are going so far as to urge the removal of all barriers and the end of all immigration restrictions; to let everyone in. Some claim this is America’s “Christian” duty in fulfillment of The Lord’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) and description of His people as those who help others (Matthew 25). Many religious groups are heavily promoting this because they see it as their mission.

The problem of immigration and helping oppressed people is vast and complex because we live on a vast and complex earth filled with complex people and cultures. There is no simple solution and no single option is going to please everyone. So, let me be clear: Morning Minutes in the Bible on An American Missionary cannot and will not begin to present solutio

Our “Sacred Duty” Romans 1:5; 16:26

Are you living intentionally? We’re far enough past New Year’s and the resolution period (you know, the time at the first of the year when we make promises to ourselves we seldom keep) so let’s ask the question and focus our thoughts for a few moments this morning on intentional living. Type “living intentionally” into Google and 1,090,000,000 results pop up in half a second. The first link defines it as “making the decision every day to live the life you want most.” That sounds a lot like New Year’s resolutions, doesn’t it? But, call it what you will, it is something worth pursuing. 
 
Today’s Saturdays in the Psalms on Morning Minutes in the Bible here on An American Missionary, finds us a whole month after New Year’s, so let’s turn to Psalm 17:3-9 for three basic intentional living resolutions. 
 
Speak with integrity is the first one found at the end of verse 3: “I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.” At its core this is a commitment to not lie or deceive, but goes beyond mere honesty to kindness and concern. God constantly calls on His people to guard their tongues, to not lie or speak harmful things to or about others. 
 
The second resolution, Stay away from violence and violent people, is found in Psalm 17:4-5. Most people keep away from such in their own lives, but some, well many, enjoy it through TV and movies. Most of us know revenge should be left to the Lord (David does that here in Psalm 17:13-14), but we (okay – I) love revenge movies. The ones where the tough guy (or gal) forsakes a commitment to peace to take revenge on those who harmed his/her loved ones. 
 
Seek the Lord for His lovingkindness and refuge is the third one and is found in Psalm 17:6-9. David “called on” the Lord confident He would hear and answer. He asked God to treasure him as the “apple of the eye” and hide him “in the shadow of (His) wings” to keep him safe from his enemies. 
 
Let’s be honest with ourselves and each other, the intention always to speak with integrity, may not be easy. It will force us to change the way we think before we speak. But let’s do it and watch our lives, and the lives of those around us, change for the better. Let us resolve to turn to God’s word for peace and justice instead of this world’s anger. It may mean changing the things we read and watch, and the people and causes we support, but no one said it would be easy. And if we act with intention, like David, our feet will not slip. Finally, turning to God sounds great, but how many of us pray and meditate and turn to Him and His word (instead of the 1billion+ internet posts) throughout the day, every day? Let’s stop complaining about this messed up world and turn to the only one who can do something about it. Let’s start living intentionally now, and live it every day.

Are you living intentionally? We’re far enough past New Year’s and the resolution period (you know, the time at the first of the year when we make promises to ourselves we seldom keep) so let’s ask the question and focus our thoughts for a few moments this morning on intentional living. Type “living intentionally” into Google and 1,090,000,000 results pop up in half a second. The first link defines it as “making the decision every day to live the life you want most.” That sounds a lot like New Year’s resolutions, doesn’t it? But, call it what you will, it is something worth pursuing. 

Today’s Saturdays in the Psalms on Morning Minutes in the Bible here on An American Missionary, finds us a whole month after New Year’s, so let’s turn to Psalm 17:3-9 for three basic intentional living resolutions.

Speak with integrity is the first one found at the end of verse 3: “I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.” At its core this is a commitment to not lie or deceive, but goes beyond

Living Intentionally Psalm 17:3-9

When Thor led his companions in an attack against the Frost Giants in the 2011 movie, appropriately named “Thor”, it was due to his ignorance and arrogance, always a dangerous combination. As a result, the attack led them into a trap that almost brought their doom. When they first arrived the land seemed empty, but then suddenly they were surrounded by the Frost Giants and vastly outnumbered. The battle was going against them until Odin arrived and rescued them, but at great cost to Odin and Thor. Ignorance and arrogance are a truly deadly combination that seem to live simultaneously in the hearts and minds of a whole lot of people. Not you and me, of course. We know better! 
 
When God defeated Syria to protect Israel the Syrian king very quickly demonstrated a healthy dose of both. Ignorantly he attributed Syria’s loss to the superstitious belief that Jehovah was a God of the hills. Like all pagans his concept of god was weak and limited so the God of Israel had to be weak and limited too. When combined with the arrogant belief that there was no way his army could lose again it set him up for another great loss. Their brilliant plan was simple – fight them in the plain rather than in the mountains. So they gathered a huge army and camped in the valley waiting for Israel to come down to fight. They were arrogantly confident that victory was a sure thing (1 Kings 20:23-25). 
 
When it came time to fight God was determined to show Ahab and Syria that He rules everywhere in the affairs of men. Israel, appeared like two little flocks of goats against the vast army of Syria. Despite their vastly inferior number Israel won another quick and decisive victory (1 Kings 20:26-30). As the prophet told King Ahab, “Thus says the LORD, ‘Because the Arameans have said, “The LORD is a god of the mountains, but He is not a god of the valleys,” therefore I will give all this great multitude into your hand, and you shall know that I am the LORD.” (v28). 
 
If we’re honest enough to look at our culture through God’s eyes we will see we’re facing a vast, and seemingly superior enemy. Even here in so-called “Christian” America. Are we willing to admit that even the religious folk around us live as if Jesus is a god of the mountains and not the valleys and have enough faith to go into battle against them? Jesus came to rescue us from our ignorance and arrogance at great cost to Himself. Let’s drink deeply from the well of God’s word to shed our ignorance and bow humbly before Jesus to shed our arrogance. Then and only then will we gain the victory.

When Thor led his companions in an attack against the Frost Giants in the 2011 movie, appropriately named “Thor”, it was due to his ignorance and arrogance, always a dangerous combination. As a result, the attack led them into a trap that almost brought their doom. When they first arrived the land seemed empty, but then suddenly they were surrounded by the Frost Giants and vastly outnumbered. The battle was going against them until Odin arrived and rescued them, but at great cost to Odin and Thor. Ignorance and arrogance are a truly deadly combination that seem to live simultaneously in the hearts and minds of a whole lot of people. Not you and me, of course. We know better! 

When God defeated Syria to protect Israel the Syrian king very quickly demonstrated a healthy dose of both. Ignorantly he attributed Syria’s loss to the superstitious belief that Jehovah was a God of the hills. Like all pagans his concept of god was weak and limited so the God of Israel had to be weak and limited

Ignorance And Arrogance 1 Kings 20:23-30

“We want the ball, and we’re going to score!” How often is that boast thrown back in Matt Hasselbeck’s face? In the first round of the 2003 NFL playoffs the Seattle Seahawks scored with less than a minute to go to tie the game and send it into overtime. After winning the overtime coin toss Matt boldly called for the ball with an even bolder prediction of the result. Well, as history records, his first pass went for a touchdown – for their opponents. It was intercepted and returned for the Green Bay Packers’ winning score. The boast may be the one thing he regrets more than the bad pass. 
 
Poorly timed boasting is not limited to modern American football. It’s as ancient as mankind. Goliath bragged about what he was going to do to David (1 Sam 17:44) but failed miserably when David took him down with one stone (see the previous Morning Minutes in the Bible video: Bragging Or Doing? Goliath and David 1 Samuel 17). Perhaps Matt shouldn’t feel so bad after all. An embarrassing game losing interception is nothing in comparison to what happened to Goliath. 
 
In the days of Elijah and Ahab there was a similar incident with the king of Syria. Syria had surrounded Samaria and, wanting to destroy the city, made a ridiculous demand. Expecting a refusal but getting a yes, they quickly made even more ridiculous demands, and got the refusal they wanted. The king of Syria made a dramatic boast of his plans for Samaria. King Ahab (yes that one) responded with a great line: “Let not him who girds on his armor boast like him who takes it off” (1 Kings 20:11). It was good advice because God still had plans for Israel and won the battle for them (1 Kings 20:13, 21). 
 
The advice is good for Christians too. Think about the bold claims of faith people constantly make. Maybe even some of us have boasted while putting on our armor rather than waiting until we took it off after winning the battle. Paul talked about not having achieved and pressing on while in prison for Christ (Philippians 3:12-14). Only as he knew death was imminent did he “boast” about taking off his armor and receiving the crown of life (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Instead of bragging about what we’re going to do for Jesus, let’s put on our armor and take up our cross daily. And trust God to give us the crown of life when the battle is over.

“We want the ball, and we’re going to score!” How often is that boast thrown back in Matt Hasselbeck’s face? In the first round of the 2003 NFL playoffs the Seattle Seahawks scored with less than a minute to go to tie the game and send it into overtime. After winning the overtime coin toss Matt boldly called for the ball with an even bolder prediction of the result. Well, as history records, his first pass went for a touchdown – for their opponents. It was intercepted and returned for the Green Bay Packers’ winning score. The boast may be the one thing he regrets more than the bad pass.

Poorly timed boasting is not limited to modern American football. It’s as ancient as mankind. Goliath bragged about what he was going to do to David (1 Sam 17:44) but failed miserably when David took him down with one stone (see the previous Morning Minutes in the Bible video: Bragging Or Doing? Goliath and David 1 Samuel 17). Perhaps Matt shouldn’t feel so bad after all. An embarrassing game losing in

Wait Till You Win To Boast 1 Kings 20:1-21

“Off with their heads!” Even if they don’t know the source most Americans are familiar with the quote from the book, “Alice in Wonderland”, where the insane Queen of Hearts constantly orders the death of all who irritate her. Sadly her spirit is all too common in the world. It has clearly been absorbed by the atheists and anti-God forces of today who want to stop all public expression of Christian beliefs. In their hatred of religion, which they label as intolerant and oppressive, they’ve become intolerant and oppressive. The “question authority” crowd has become the “compel compliance” crowd. Any public profession of actual life-changing faith in Jesus leads to figurative decapitation. And, as things are going, could lead to literal decapitation. 
 
However, in fairness, religious people have brought this upon themselves because of their own practice of the evil, ungodly, attitude of “Off with their heads.” Many were happy to use political power to force people to act and live according their rules. All too often it was “off with their heads” for those who refused to submit. As noted previously it is a huge mistake to make public prayer a political issue because it is actually a faith issue. To our shame we easily lose sight of our own need to pray (publicly and privately) and get caught up in the fight to force others to pray along with us, even when they don’t want to, and we don’t even pray all that much ourselves. 
 
To all those who say we should just submit and surrender and keep all prayer private, as well as those who say, “Bring back prayer”, I respond with one name - Elijah. When Elijah went back to Israel after the three and a half years of drought he challenged the Queen of Hearts, Jezebel, and the status quo of his day, self-absorbed self-worship disguised as Baal worship. Despite the dramatic proof that Baal was a false god in contrast to the reality of Jehovah and the execution of her prophets, Jezebel struck back. She sent a short message to Elijah: “Off with your head!” (1 Kings 19:1-2). 
 
Too often we see this spiritual battle in physical terms. We think if we were more like Elijah we could defeat Jezebel and turn the nation to Yahweh. But God did not send us to force unbelievers to pray with us. He sent His Son to call us to faith in Him and to live by that faith in a world filled with people like Jezebel. America was not, is not, and never will be, a Christian nation. Instead of trying to make it one through political power, remember Jezebel will strike back. Instead, let’s pray for more people with the faith of Elijah, people who will risk losing their heads for the glory of God. Let’s pray for the faith to risk our own head for His glory. Pray – and keep on praying no matter how the world reacts.

“Off with their heads!” Even if they don’t know the source most Americans are familiar with the quote from the book, “Alice in Wonderland”, where the insane Queen of Hearts constantly orders the death of all who irritate her. Sadly her spirit is all too common in the world. It has clearly been absorbed by the atheists and anti-God forces of today who want to stop all public expression of Christian beliefs. In their hatred of religion, which they label as intolerant and oppressive, they’ve become intolerant and oppressive. The “question authority” crowd has become the “compel compliance” crowd. Any public profession of actual life-changing faith in Jesus leads to figurative decapitation. And, as things are going, could lead to literal decapitation.

However, in fairness, religious people have brought this upon themselves because of their own practice of the evil, ungodly, attitude of “Off with their heads.” Many were happy to use political power to force people to act and live according

Jezebel, “Off With Your Head!” 1 Kings 19:1-2

“Blame it on the night 
Don't blame it on me 
Don't blame it on me” 
 
Those lyrics are from Calvin Harris’ and John Newman’s hit song “Blame”. A simple song, it’s about a man being with a woman he has no right to be with and denying any responsibility. “Blame it on the night” he says. 
 
From the beginning of history man has attempted to escape responsibility for his own actions. When Adam was confronted by God in the Garden, his first response was to blame Eve, and ultimately God; “The woman whom You gave to be with me” (Gen 3:12). It didn’t work then, it doesn’t work now, but we keep trying it. 
 
As the story of King Ahab unfolds we learn very quickly that he is a man of weak character. When he made Baal worship a central feature of life for the nation of Israel he refused to accept any responsibility for the consequences. Sometimes we forget that Israel had the Law of Moses and prophets to reveal God’s will, but still rebelled. So when Elijah declared the coming drought Ahab was fully aware of the reason. He just refused to accept that it was his fault. He refused to accept responsibility for the result of his decision to rebel against God. 
 
After three and a half years of drought the land and people were in bad shape. Ahab had searched everywhere for Elijah without success. Finally while Ahab was desperately looking for water for his livestock God told Elijah to let himself be found. Rather than humbly admitting his sin and finally submitting to God, Ahab revealed his arrogance and pride when he saw Elijah. Without missing a beat he blamed Elijah for the problems caused by his own sin: “Is this you, you troubler of Israel?” Elijah didn’t miss a beat either and immediately placed the fault squarely on Ahab’s shoulders, “I have not troubled Israel, but you and your father’s house have, because you have forsaken the commandments of the Lord and have followed the Baals.” (1 Kings 18:17-18). 
 
Now before we get all judgy and preachy about Ahab let’s think carefully about how we respond when confronted with our own sin. Do we swell up in pride to defend or excuse ourselves? Be honest now. God doesn’t care about our egos – He cares about our souls and demands our submission to His will. That means when we sin we must learn to admit it and repent, instead of trying to blame it on the night.

“Blame it on the night
Don't blame it on me
Don't blame it on me”

Those lyrics are from Calvin Harris’ and John Newman’s hit song “Blame”. A simple song, it’s about a man being with a woman he has no right to be with and denying any responsibility. “Blame it on the night” he says.

From the beginning of history man has attempted to escape responsibility for his own actions. When Adam was confronted by God in the Garden, his first response was to blame Eve, and ultimately God; “The woman whom You gave to be with me” (Gen 3:12). It didn’t work then, it doesn’t work now, but we keep trying it.

As the story of King Ahab unfolds we learn very quickly that he is a man of weak character. When he made Baal worship a central feature of life for the nation of Israel he refused to accept any responsibility for the consequences. Sometimes we forget that Israel had the Law of Moses and prophets to reveal God’s will, but still rebelled. So when Elijah declared the coming drought Ahab was fully awa

Ahab Blamed Elijah For His Own Sin 1 Kings 18:17-18

“Water, water, everywhere, 
And all the boards did shrink; 
Water, water, everywhere, 
Nor any drop to drink.” 
This line, from “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, which tells the tale of a sailor’s hardship as the sole survivor of a doomed voyage, refers to a time the ship was stalled on the ocean near the equator. Long days unmoving in the sun drained away life as they ran out of water, yet were surrounded by an ocean filled with it. 
 
After suffering through years of severe drought, despite 840 miles of Pacific Ocean coast line, California finally built a desalination plant in 2015, paving the way for more, because, despite the detractors, it’s the most sustainable source of drinking water. One detractor, apparently blissfully ignorant of the millennia long history of regular droughts, made the brilliant observation that it’s not a good idea: “because by the time you finish it the drought is over.” Six years later it isn’t. 
 
Yesterday we introduced Elijah, who’s first recorded prophecy was a long drought in Israel as punishment for their sin under Ahab (1 Kings 17:1). But, as in all droughts, the effects were felt by everyone – even the prophet himself. At first he camped by a stream in the wilderness and was supplied by God until the creek ran dry (1 Kings 17:2-7). Then God sent him to the Widow of Zarephath, who herself was at the edge of death, and miraculously preserved Elijah along with the widow and her son (1 Kings 17:8-24). Finally, when the famine was so severe Ahab was desperately looking for water sources God sent Elijah to lift the drought. But first he had to confront Ahab and show him that God rules in nature (1 Kings 18:1-2). 
 
Recently many relearned how little control we have over nature. The storms that swept through the Midwest skipped across the landscape randomly hitting homes and business, taking some lives and leaving others with nothing but emotional scars. We couldn’t stop it or direct it, we could only hide in closets, bathrooms, and basements while it passed over. Yes God gives us tools to use for survival during such storms, but in the end we must remember one important thing: We don’t rule - God does. I pray we don’t forget it any time soon.

“Water, water, everywhere,
And all the boards did shrink;
Water, water, everywhere,
Nor any drop to drink.”
This line, from “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, which tells the tale of a sailor’s hardship as the sole survivor of a doomed voyage, refers to a time the ship was stalled on the ocean near the equator. Long days unmoving in the sun drained away life as they ran out of water, yet were surrounded by an ocean filled with it.

After suffering through years of severe drought, despite 840 miles of Pacific Ocean coast line, California finally built a desalination plant in 2015, paving the way for more, because, despite the detractors, it’s the most sustainable source of drinking water. One detractor, apparently blissfully ignorant of the millennia long history of regular droughts, made the brilliant observation that it’s not a good idea: “because by the time you finish it the drought is over.” Six years later it isn’t.

Yesterday we introduced Elijah, who’s

God Rules – We Don’t  1 Kings 17:1-18:2

So I'd like to know where, you got the notion 
Said I'd like to know where, you got the notion 
(To rock the boat), don't rock the boat baby 
 
When first released early in 1974, Rock The Boat by the Hues Corporation barely registered on the charts. But a few months later the disco scene had made it a hit and took it to number 1. Mindlessly repetitive it is a fitting anthem for the mindlessly repetitive disco era. 
 
Sadly, the song, in which the singer is asking his love where she got the notion to challenge and change the status of their relationship, is a fitting anthem to much of religion, and especially religious leaders. Throughout history as religious institutions, and their leaders, become entrenched, they are quick to condemn, and in some cases kill, anyone who dares “rock the boat”. We’ve been looking at Judah and Israel during the days of Asa. Early in his life he was submissive to the will of God, but in his later years became defiantly protective of his own power and privilege (2 Chronicles 14 – 16). When God sent a prophet to “rock the boat” Asa threw him in jail. Shortly after his death one of God’s greatest prophets, Elijah, “got the notion” from God and arose to “rock the boat”. But even Elijah had to be reminded – God is the boat rocker not him! Today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on Throwback Thursday looks at the value and dangers of being boat rockers. 
 
Me Against The World by Robert F. Turner. From PLAIN TALK Magazine, February 1978. 
 
Elijah once thought, "I am left alone," the only one right (Rom. 11:3). But he was wrong in this judgment, even though right in his God service. The "one against the world" attitude is self-inflating, and has wrecked the work of many a would-be reformer. 
 
When one recognizes a truth which he had not before seen — and if you have not done this you are not growing as God intended — this should be a humbling experience. Should one not think, "Until now, I have failed in this matter"? Is it not presumptuous to conclude that you alone have such marvelous insight? 
 
What if others are yet unaware of this truth — or perhaps fail to give it the emphasis it deserves? Will we help them by adopting a superior air, and treating them as if they were stupid, or do not love truth? Quite often it is the one who has newly "seen the light" that was — well, not as bright as they now seem to think. It is often the case that others have long known this particular truth, although they may not have set it forth with the clarity it deserves. Our attitude may push good men into defensive positions. (What pushed the "reformer" into his "one against the world" attitude?) When will we learn to teach such truth as we believe we have found, with vigor, application, documented by scriptures, but with no personal "credit" line? I get the impression that some think they invented the gospel. 
 
Besides being the Christ-like spirit, such humility will be very helpful when someone examines our "new" truth, and finds it is an old error. Those who have recently taken excursions in "imputed righteousness" need to do a bit of research on this line. 
 
We do tend to traditionalize our preaching; to emphasize one point to the neglect of others. But if someone knows the truth more perfectly let him balance his preaching and set it before us with clarity. It is not the scriptural, whole-truth scheme of redemption that riles truth lovers. Good men constantly learn more truth, they just don't like to be fed 16th. Century error, and be classed as legalists if they refuse to eat it. 
 
Hmm, this warning was written by a man who was a boat rocker in his own gentle way. We would do well to reread this and rethink our own efforts to preach and teach God’s word. Yes, if we’ve turned church into a Caribbean Cruise liner then our boat needs to be rocked. But if we set out to be boat rockers we must check our egos, and let God’s word rock our own boat first. If it’s about us then our efforts will ultimately fail. Let’s ask ourselves where we “got the notion” and make sure it is from God’s word.

So I'd like to know where, you got the notion
Said I'd like to know where, you got the notion
(To rock the boat), don't rock the boat baby

When first released early in 1974, Rock The Boat by the Hues Corporation barely registered on the charts. But a few months later the disco scene had made it a hit and took it to number 1. Mindlessly repetitive it is a fitting anthem for the mindlessly repetitive disco era.

Sadly, the song, in which the singer is asking his love where she got the notion to challenge and change the status of their relationship, is a fitting anthem to much of religion, and especially religious leaders. Throughout history as religious institutions, and their leaders, become entrenched, they are quick to condemn, and in some cases kill, anyone who dares “rock the boat”. We’ve been looking at Judah and Israel during the days of Asa. Early in his life he was submissive to the will of God, but in his later years became defiantly protective of his own power and privilege (

Boat Rockers 2 Chronicles 16:7-10

“Meanwhile Back at The Ranch” part 3. Yesterday we saw how the pattern of a strong king seizing the throne and reigning for many years just to turn it over to a son who was weak and unable to retain the throne developed in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Jeroboam (the man who rebelled against Solomon’s son Rehoboam and ruled first in the Northern Kingdom) ruled for 22 years, but his son Nadab only lasted two years (1 Kings 14:20; 15:25). Baasha destroyed Nadab and the house of Jeroboam (as punishment for sin 1 Kings 15:29) and ruled for 24 years until he died and turned it over to his son Elah. Elah lasted two years before being killed by another usurper, Zimri (1 Kings 16:8-11). 
 
Just when we thought it was going to get monotonous a man named Omri came along to shake everything up by shattering the pattern. Before Zimri had time to explore every room in his new palace Omri (a fellow captain of the army) was raised up as a rival. Zimri ruled for a mere seven days and when he saw his city surrounded burned the palace down on his own head (1 Kings 16:15-20). Talk about going out in a blaze of, well, not glory. 
 
This is where history gets very interesting (at least to people like me) because Omri set up a dynasty that lasted through four generations and almost 45 years. Though to put that in perspective David, Solomon, and Asa each reigned for 40 years in Judah. Beyond the seizing of the throne and setting up Samaria as his capital very little is said about Omri. Well there is the little thing about his sin being worse than Jeroboam; “Omri did evil in the sight of the Lord, and acted more wickedly than all who were before him” (1 Kings 16:25). Oh, and the raising of his son Ahab to the throne who raised the practice of evil to even greater heights (1 Kings 16:28-30). But just because it took a little longer never forget the third pattern – God’s judgment always prevails. Omri’s house didn’t escape it. 
 
And that’s where it’s important for us to pay attention. History has a habit of repeating itself and just because we seem to be on top of the world today, we must remember our sin will find us out. Whether individually or collectively, if we’re not faithful to the Lord we will not escape His judgment. As noted yesterday the rise and fall of nations is inevitable. And sadly, the same can be said for some Christians and local congregations. Even though everyone sins and needs the grace of God, we cannot continue in sin so grace may abound (Romans 6:1-2). That’s why God constantly calls on those who would belong to Him to turn away from the world and live in obedience to His commands. Christians and churches who don’t won’t escape judgment. His judgment will fall on us if we don’t live obediently today and every day.

“Meanwhile Back at The Ranch” part 3. Yesterday we saw how the pattern of a strong king seizing the throne and reigning for many years just to turn it over to a son who was weak and unable to retain the throne developed in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Jeroboam (the man who rebelled against Solomon’s son Rehoboam and ruled first in the Northern Kingdom) ruled for 22 years, but his son Nadab only lasted two years (1 Kings 14:20; 15:25). Baasha destroyed Nadab and the house of Jeroboam (as punishment for sin 1 Kings 15:29) and ruled for 24 years until he died and turned it over to his son Elah. Elah lasted two years before being killed by another usurper, Zimri (1 Kings 16:8-11).

Just when we thought it was going to get monotonous a man named Omri came along to shake everything up by shattering the pattern. Before Zimri had time to explore every room in his new palace Omri (a fellow captain of the army) was raised up as a rival. Zimri ruled for a mere seven days and when he saw his ci

Omri Breaks The Pattern – Temporarily 1 Kings 16:28-30

“Shake it Off”, Taylor Swift’s 2014 hit song, is all about not being knocked down by the things others say. The haters are going to hate, the critics are going to criticize, but she’s just going to “shake it off”. In explaining the sentiment of the song, the singer, just 24 at the time, noted how her popularity brought every single aspect of her life under scrutiny and many felt the need to tear her down. Showing uncommon strength and wisdom she decided that it came with the territory so rather than let it break her down she would dodge the punches, and whenever one would hit, and hurt, she would just “shake it off”. 
 
In many ways that’s a message a whole lot of NT Christians should learn today. This world is filled with people who don’t like God, which means they won’t like anyone who genuinely serves God by faith. Jesus warned His apostles that the world hated Him and would hate and persecute them too (John 15:18-21). We need to shake off the world’s vicious attacks, as well as the religious liars who are aligned with the world not God and preach a false Messiah of wealth and prosperity. 
 
When David’s great-great-grandson Asa came to the throne it was just 20 years after the death of Solomon and the nation had fallen far from the height it had reached under David and Solomon. But Asa didn’t give in to the lies of idolatry brought in by his father and grand-father. Instead he decided to shake them off by removing them from the land. 1 Kings 15: 8-15 gives a short synopsis of the “shake it off” process. Verses 11 declares the fact; “Asa did what was right in the sight of the Lord, like David his father.” Verse 14 declares the reason; “the heart of Asa was wholly devoted to the Lord all his days.” 
 
As we think about what that means we must understand it wasn’t easy and required significant sacrifice which would have created a lot of conflict, even within his own family. Part of the shaking off process including removing his grandmother, the queen bee herself. Maacah. As the wife of Solomon’s son Rehoboam, and mother of Asa’s father Abijah, she had a lot of power in Jerusalem and had to be shaken off. 1 Kings 15:13 tells us he removed her “from being queen mother, because she had made a horrid image as an Asherah; and Asa cut down her horrid image and burned it at the brook Kidron.” You know that had to hurt, but since his heart “was wholly devoted to the Lord” he was able to “shake it off”. 
 
What sins, or sinners, reign in our hearts that we can’t seem to shake off? We can’t let those stay in our lives and the way to get them out is by putting the Lord first in our hearts. Like Asa, devote your heart wholly to the Lord all your days and you can “shake it off.”

“Shake it Off”, Taylor Swift’s 2014 hit song, is all about not being knocked down by the things others say. The haters are going to hate, the critics are going to criticize, but she’s just going to “shake it off”. In explaining the sentiment of the song, the singer, just 24 at the time, noted how her popularity brought every single aspect of her life under scrutiny and many felt the need to tear her down. Showing uncommon strength and wisdom she decided that it came with the territory so rather than let it break her down she would dodge the punches, and whenever one would hit, and hurt, she would just “shake it off”.

In many ways that’s a message a whole lot of NT Christians should learn today. This world is filled with people who don’t like God, which means they won’t like anyone who genuinely serves God by faith. Jesus warned His apostles that the world hated Him and would hate and persecute them too (John 15:18-21). We need to shake off the world’s vicious attacks, as well as the r

Shaking Off Sin And Sinners 1 Kings 15:8-15; 2 Chronicles 15:8-19

"We've been looking for the enemy for some time now. We've finally found him. We're surrounded. That simplifies things." That quote is attributed to US General Lewis B “Chesty” Puller in 1950 when his marine division was surrounded by a vastly larger number of Chinese soldiers. Despite the huge disadvantage his men inflicted heavy losses on the enemy and escaped the trap. While not technically a victory, being able to survive and escape the surprise attack at Chosin Reservoir was almost miraculous, and, by all accounts, a genuine military success. 
 
A similar miraculous military success is the only good thing we know about David’s great-grandson, Abijah, who reigned for a brief three years after the death of his father, Rehoboam. The account of his reign in 1 Kings 15:1-8 says nothing good about him at all. In fact it states that God preserved him solely because of His promise to David. However, 2 Chronicles records one event in his short reign that could have inspired General Puller’s statement, and is a brief moment of reliance on God. Shortly after coming to the throne Abijah raised an army to fight against Jeroboam who was still ruling in the Northern Kingdom. At the start of the battle he stood on a hill and declared all the reasons why Jeroboam and Israel were going to be punished for their rebellion against his father and the rejection of temple worship (2 Chronicles 13:1-12). Proving that even an ungodly man can occasionally say the right things. 
 
However, there was one significant problem with his strategy. While he was on the hill jawing at Jeroboam, Jeroboam was busy preparing an ambush. Suddenly, after the jawing ended and it was time to fight, Abijah and Judah realized they were surrounded by an army twice as big as theirs. As in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, that simplified things. Instead of trusting in their own might all of Judah realized they had to turn to God for help. With one voice they called on God to deliver them and He did. It was both a major miracle and victory (2 Chronicles 13:13-18). 
 
Too bad Abijah didn’t take it to heart by learning to trust God and actually believe in the sanctity of God’s temple worship (2 Chronicles 13:21). We too are surrounded by the enemies of God. Will we trust in Him and gain the victory – and then maintain our faith? Or will we trust in ourselves instead of God? With Him we are victorious conquerors. Without Him we will fall to Satan’s forces. While the right choice is obvious, that doesn’t mean we will make it because the decision remains ours. What about you, which will you choose?

"We've been looking for the enemy for some time now. We've finally found him. We're surrounded. That simplifies things." That quote is attributed to US General Lewis B “Chesty” Puller in 1950 when his marine division was surrounded by a vastly larger number of Chinese soldiers. Despite the huge disadvantage his men inflicted heavy losses on the enemy and escaped the trap. While not technically a victory, being able to survive and escape the surprise attack at Chosin Reservoir was almost miraculous, and, by all accounts, a genuine military success.

A similar miraculous military success is the only good thing we know about David’s great-grandson, Abijah, who reigned for a brief three years after the death of his father, Rehoboam. The account of his reign in 1 Kings 15:1-8 says nothing good about him at all. In fact it states that God preserved him solely because of His promise to David. However, 2 Chronicles records one event in his short reign that could have inspired General Puller’s 

Failing To Fully Trust God 1 Kings 15:1-8; 2 Chronicles 13:1-21

“Can’t Buy Me Love” is an old Beatles song about the fact that money can’t buy love. It may get people’s attention, but that’s not the same thing as love. The song asks for someone who doesn’t care about those things because the singer knows that money can’t buy love. It was written by Paul McCartney, who later commented that the title should have been “Can Buy Me Love” because of all the things wealth had brought. He was wrong of course because that wasn’t love. The truth is that true love can’t be purchased, it can only be given from the heart. 
 
When God gave the ten tribes of Israel to Jeroboam it included a promise of a perpetual throne if Jeroboam would remain faithful to God (1 Kings 11:37-38). But as soon as Jeroboam was on his throne and established his kingdom he rejected God and went his own way by building idols and set up a false religion (1 Kings 12:25-33). Since giving him the kingdom wasn’t enough to get Jeroboam to love God, the promise of a perpetual rule for his family couldn’t buy his love either. 
 
Later Jeroboam’s son became ill so he sent his wife to Ahijah, the prophet who had revealed the gift of the kingdom many years earlier, to find out what would happen to the child. Thinking he could buy God’s favor he sent her with a large gift basket. Knowing they were out of favor with God his wife was going to hide her identity, which showed how little they understood God. Ahijah was told by God what to say. It wasn’t good news (1 Kings 14:1-20). 
 
As we approach the Thanksgiving Holiday here in America we should be genuinely thankful to God for all the blessings we’ve received. Some will, but many won’t. Oh, most will gather with family, mouth a traditional prayer, and then consume large quantities of turkey and traditional holiday foods, without any further thought about the God who gave it to them. (Yeah, that has been me too many times to count.) 
 
How many of us are like Jeroboam; rejecting God when life is good but trying to buy His love when problems come? God already loves us and simply asks us to love Him in return; fully, completely and freely. He offers us His love at the great cost of His Son, but won’t force us to accept the gift, nor can we buy it from Him. All we have to do is surrender ourselves to Him in gratitude. But that’s a lot harder than we might want to admit, isn’t it?

“Can’t Buy Me Love” is an old Beatles song about the fact that money can’t buy love. It may get people’s attention, but that’s not the same thing as love. The song asks for someone who doesn’t care about those things because the singer knows that money can’t buy love. It was written by Paul McCartney, who later commented that the title should have been “Can Buy Me Love” because of all the things wealth had brought. He was wrong of course because that wasn’t love. The truth is that true love can’t be purchased, it can only be given from the heart.

When God gave the ten tribes of Israel to Jeroboam it included a promise of a perpetual throne if Jeroboam would remain faithful to God (1 Kings 11:37-38). But as soon as Jeroboam was on his throne and established his kingdom he rejected God and went his own way by building idols and set up a false religion (1 Kings 12:25-33). Since giving him the kingdom wasn’t enough to get Jeroboam to love God, the promise of a perpetual rule for his famil

Can’t Buy God’s Love 1 Kings 14:1-20

If I don’t have time to do it right the first time I certainly don’t have time to do it again and again! Time is a constant struggle at work. Juggling multiple tasks, some of which are time sensitive, we frequently make the mistake of rushing through an important task without taking the time to ensure it is done correctly. Claiming we don’t have time to get it right we often don’t (get it right that is) – and then have to use even more time to correct it. It’s a self-defeating cycle until we learn to focus on what is important and get it right – the first time. 
 
Too often we make the same mistake in religion. Doing God’s will requires too much time and effort to get it right so we don’t (get it right that is) – and once started wrong seldom, if ever, start over and correct our errors. Yet serving God requires a constant process of correction, which few bother to do. Today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on Throwback Thursday reaches back over 40 years to an article on: 
 
The Lure Of The Easy Way by Dan Shipley. From PLAIN TALK Magazine, March 1978 
 
"And Jeroboam said in his heart, Now shall the kingdom return to the house of David: if this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the Lord at Jerusalem, then shall the heart of this people turn again unto their lord, even unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah." (1 Kings 12:26, 27) 
 
Whether or not Jeroboam's fears were well founded is uncertain. However, of one thing we can be sure. He was more concerned about the people's loyalty to him than to God. To accomplish his aims, he shrewdly baits his trap with something that entices most all men — the lure of the easy way. He told them, "It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem...". Little did it matter, apparently, that he gave them idols, pretended priests and pagan worship. The important thing was that he provided them with an easy religion — and that overshadowed all else. They became victims of the easy way. 
 
Many are the mortals who have succumbed to the lure of the easy way, both spiritually and otherwise. Our advertising agencies have learned the devil's sales pitch well. They tell you how to lose weight — the easy way. They offer easy ways to quit smoking, to achieve physical fitness or financial independence. People haven't changed much since Jeroboam's day. They still fall for the same old bait, "the easy way"; and in doing so have filled the prisons, swelled the welfare rolls and lengthened unemployment lines (Not to mention the irretrievable waste of time, talent and potential). And, as in Jeroboam's day, the easy way is still a popular way in religion. The prospects of having to "go up to Jerusalem" (or even across town) is still too much for too many. They would take the denying self out of following Christ; the giving diligence out of seeking approval; and the striving out of entering in at the strait gate. Such would have the benefits without the bother. As Jesus says of others, "They have their reward." 
 
As might be expected, even the Lord's church has been touched by the lure of the easy way. It is felt in our teaching program when preachers and teachers find it "too much" to make adequate preparation of their lessons and when Bible class students find it "too much" to study and prepare assigned work. It affects our visitation program when members find it "too much" to leave their comfortable homes and TV programs to call on the sick or unfaithful. It affects our personal evangelism program when brethren think it "too much" to try and teach others the way of salvation. It affects the purity of the church when we think it "too much" to finally discipline the unruly among us. Of all things that contribute to the weakening of the church, none is more influential than taking the easy way. 
 
The narrow way can never be the easy way. Not only are the ways different, they lead to different destinations (Matt. 7:14). "Going up to Jerusalem" may require self-denial, sacrifice and hard work but it's the way of the cross — and that leads home. 
 
Thank you Dan for that reminder. Most of the time we can correct the mistakes made doing work “the easy way”, but not always. So we should focus on getting it right the first time because it saves time, and, depending on the job, perhaps even lives. Yes, we can correct the mistakes we make in serving God, but not always. Jeroboam certainly didn’t. That’s why we should focus on getting it right the first time, and keep looking to correct any errors, because that saves souls, perhaps even our own.

If I don’t have time to do it right the first time I certainly don’t have time to do it again and again! Time is a constant struggle at work. Juggling multiple tasks, some of which are time sensitive, we frequently make the mistake of rushing through an important task without taking the time to ensure it is done correctly. Claiming we don’t have time to get it right we often don’t (get it right that is) – and then have to use even more time to correct it. It’s a self-defeating cycle until we learn to focus on what is important and get it right – the first time. 

Too often we make the same mistake in religion. Doing God’s will requires too much time and effort to get it right so we don’t (get it right that is) – and once started wrong seldom, if ever, start over and correct our errors. Yet serving God requires a constant process of correction, which few bother to do. Today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on Throwback Thursday reaches back over 40 years to an article on:

The Lure Of The

The Lure Of The Easy Way 1 Kings 12:26-27

Did you know Tom Cruise used to be my neighbor? Hearing that I had retired to Clearwater Florida to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ it became clear that he should sell his California Mansion and move to Clearwater to be close to me. Well there’s a little bit of fiction thrown in with some facts so to be more accurate, yes, I retired and moved to Clearwater to preach. And yes, not long afterwards a local newspaper featured a story that Cruise may sell his home in CA to move to Clearwater. But the rest of that is pure fiction. 
 
Tom’s possible move to the area was deemed headline worthy, but neither Tom nor the newspaper ever heard about me. Don’t feel sorry for me though, because I certainly didn’t. Leaving the corporate rat race to share the gospel with the people of Pinellas County had me as giddy as a school boy. Plus the fact that Tom was considering moving to the area meant nothing to me. I don’t know if he ever did or not and couldn’t care less, except he’s a great illustration of the problem of celebrity worship. 
 
But celebrity worship isn’t news. It’s as old as the Bible and goes back almost 3000 years to the time of Jeroboam. When the young prophet declared God’s judgment on Israel and the house of Jeroboam for idolatry, and confirmed it with a miracle, Jeroboam wanted to spend time with him (1 Kings 13:8). The prophet was a celebrity to Jeroboam. But the young man had been instructed by God to immediately return home, so he refused and headed home (1 Kings 13:9-10). 
 
So far so good, but here’s where the story took a strange turn. An older prophet got bit by the same celebrity bug as Jeroboam. In order to scratch that bite he chased the young man down and talked him into coming back to his house in Bethel. But to convince the young man it was okay to disobey God’s will, the old prophet lied by claiming to have received a word from God through an angel (1 Kings 13:11-19). He was consumed by the celebrity bug and it cost the young prophet his life. 
 
Just two lessons for us before we finish. First – don’t turn admiration and support of preachers into celebrity worship. It isn’t good for them or us. Many a good preacher has fallen away because of the heady rush of excessive admiration by brethren. And many brethren have fallen away by worshiping a preacher instead of Christ. If we know God why get excited about any mere human? Second, don’t listen to people claiming to have “a word from God” that contradicts what God has already told us. God does not give a message to me or you that contradicts what Paul wrote to all of us! Every such claim is a lie that should be ignored or even denounced (depending on the circumstances). God is not a God of confusion or deceit.

Did you know Tom Cruise used to be my neighbor? Hearing that I had retired to Clearwater Florida to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ it became clear that he should sell his California Mansion and move to Clearwater to be close to me. Well there’s a little bit of fiction thrown in with some facts so to be more accurate, yes, I retired and moved to Clearwater to preach. And yes, not long afterwards a local newspaper featured a story that Cruise may sell his home in CA to move to Clearwater. But the rest of that is pure fiction.

Tom’s possible move to the area was deemed headline worthy, but neither Tom nor the newspaper ever heard about me. Don’t feel sorry for me though, because I certainly didn’t. Leaving the corporate rat race to share the gospel with the people of Pinellas County had me as giddy as a school boy. Plus the fact that Tom was considering moving to the area meant nothing to me. I don’t know if he ever did or not and couldn’t care less, except he’s a great illustration o

Ancient Celebrity Worship 1 Kings 13:8-19

“Is that all you’ve got, Clark?” One would think the writers could come up with a better line than that old cliché for a big budget movie like 2013’s Man of Steel. Yet there it was in one of the flash back scenes as a bully picked on the mild mannered Clark Kent. Wanting to strike back, but knowing he couldn’t, made the humiliation hurt even worse. Of course it was a movie, and in the movie and TV world the violence is fake so it’s easy for actors to toss out that cocky line. Even when it’s by the guy getting beat up. The bloody lips and bruises are all fake and the only real pain is from seeing the bad acting. 
 
Sometimes it becomes difficult for people to remember that actors are putting on a show. Years ago a reporter asked a young Harrison Ford if he ever wanted to “Go all Indiana Jones” when stuck in LA traffic. Ford’s response was to remind the questioner that it was a movie character, a make believe role; fiction not reality. 
 
The difference between fiction and reality jumps out in the events involving Jeroboam and the prophet of God in 1 Kings 13:1-6. When the prophet came to condemn the idolatrous worship Jeroboam was furious and “stretched out his hand from the altar, saying “Seize him.” (1 Kings 13:4). But God changed Jeroboam’s tune when “his hand which he stretched out against him dried up, so that he could not draw it back to himself.” (also v4). But God wasn’t done speaking to Jeroboam. As the creator of heaven and earth God’s power is not restricted by time. He revealed through the prophet that a King of Judah would desecrate the altar and named him – Josiah, who was 300 years in the future. To further prove He was with the prophet God tore the altar open as promised. 
 
Suddenly Jeroboam remembered that he was not God, and neither was the golden calf. Jeroboam knew the golden calf was fiction so instead of turning to it for help or responding with the cocky cliché “Is that the best you’ve got?” he begged for God’s mercy, who graciously granted it by restoring his arm. “’Please entreat the Lord your God and pray for me, that my hand may be restored to me.’ So the man of God entreated the Lord, and the king’s hand was restored to him, and it became as it was before.” (1 Kings 13:6). 
 
But that wasn’t the best God could do. 2000 years ago, on a special Sunday God tore open a grave and raised Jesus from the dead. And the best is yet to come when God calls all His saints to Himself, when the grave and death give up all and all believers (living or dead) are reunited in heaven for eternity. When we look at our response to that miracle and the promise of an even grander one let’s be honest and ask ourselves: “Is this the best I can do?”

“Is that all you’ve got, Clark?” One would think the writers could come up with a better line than that old cliché for a big budget movie like 2013’s Man of Steel. Yet there it was in one of the flash back scenes as a bully picked on the mild mannered Clark Kent. Wanting to strike back, but knowing he couldn’t, made the humiliation hurt even worse. Of course it was a movie, and in the movie and TV world the violence is fake so it’s easy for actors to toss out that cocky line. Even when it’s by the guy getting beat up. The bloody lips and bruises are all fake and the only real pain is from seeing the bad acting.

Sometimes it becomes difficult for people to remember that actors are putting on a show. Years ago a reporter asked a young Harrison Ford if he ever wanted to “Go all Indiana Jones” when stuck in LA traffic. Ford’s response was to remind the questioner that it was a movie character, a make believe role; fiction not reality.

The difference between fiction and reality jumps out 

Is This All I've Got? 1 Kings 13:1-6

“Hilltoppers” supposedly originated as the nickname for Western Kentucky University sports teams (and the school though it wasn’t called WKU then) nearly 100 years ago when the basketball team exacted revenge on Vanderbilt University with a narrow victory. It stuck and soon became “official.” It is a somewhat innocuous name, but is appropriate for a school that sits on a rather prominent hill overlooking the city of Bowling Green, KY. However, outside of Bowling Green and Southern KY, the name generates questions and good natured (sometimes) ribbing by those who haven’t stood at the bottom of College Street down in Bowling Green and looked up to the campus. 
 
It may not seem all that important outside of Bowling Green now, but who knows, maybe centuries from now “Hilltoppers” will resonate across the nation as an honored designation of WKU and Bowling Green, KY. After all, other names have risen from the same innocuous beginning to achieve universal and millennia long acclaim. 
 
Today’s Saturdays in the Psalms on Morning Minutes in the Bible examines one of those names found in Psalm 14 – ZION. 
 
After lamenting the lack of wisdom among the fools of his day (most likely those who denied God in practice but not in name) the Psalmist turned his attention to the righteous who looked to God for refuge (Psalm 14:5-6) instead of their own power, like the fools described in the beginning of the Psalm. He ended the Psalm with a plea and a promise “Oh that the salvation of Israel would come out of Zion!” is the plea, and “When the Lord restores His captive people, Jacob will rejoice, Israel will be glad.” is the promise (Psalm 14:7). 
 
Zion is a powerful word among religious people today because of its association with Jerusalem and Jehovah. However, its origin is much more innocuous. In fact, finding its origin isn’t easy, but it seems to have come from a word meaning hill, or highpoint, and then referred to a fortified area on a hill. After David took Zion (2 Samuel 5:7) it was forever associated with God and His people. It soon was used as the name for the whole city of Jerusalem, and especially the temple mount where God dwelt with His people. 1000 years later it was used to refer to Heaven itself as God’s true dwelling place (Hebrews 12:22-24). 
 
If you want to be a Hilltopper, that’s great. I know a lot of good people who are. However, if you want a lasting name seek to be known as a resident of Zion. That’s where eternity with God, Jesus, the angels, and all the righteous is found. They’re waiting for you and me so that’s where I want to go and I hope you do too!

“Hilltoppers” supposedly originated as the nickname for Western Kentucky University sports teams (and the school though it wasn’t called WKU then) nearly 100 years ago when the basketball team exacted revenge on Vanderbilt University with a narrow victory. It stuck and soon became “official.” It is a somewhat innocuous name, but is appropriate for a school that sits on a rather prominent hill overlooking the city of Bowling Green, KY. However, outside of Bowling Green and Southern KY, the name generates questions and good natured (sometimes) ribbing by those who haven’t stood at the bottom of College Street down in Bowling Green and looked up to the campus.

It may not seem all that important outside of Bowling Green now, but who knows, maybe centuries from now “Hilltoppers” will resonate across the nation as an honored designation of WKU and Bowling Green, KY. After all, other names have risen from the same innocuous beginning to achieve universal and millennia long acclaim. 

Today’s

Seeking A Home In Zion Psalm 14:7

“Oh yeah, you blend.” In the movie “My Cousin Vinny” (IFC, Inappropriate for Christians, for sure) Vinny is a New Yorker claiming to blend in with the native population of a small Alabama town because he was wearing cowboy boots. His girlfriend’s sarcastic response was spot on because, with his leather pants, leather jacket and thick NY accent, he stood out like the proverbial sore thumb. That scene illustrates one of our biggest struggles; the desire to be ourselves while blending in with everyone else. As the scene shows we often fail at both. 
 
That struggle shows up in every aspect of life. The news media all claim to be uniquely the best. Ponder that for a moment. Cowboys all wear a cowboy hat. Goth kids wear the same black clothes and listen to the same music. Corporate leaders all wear the same suits and ties. Entertainers copy each other. In our efforts to stand out we always find ourselves blending in with someone else. 
 
Religion isn’t free from this struggle. The more effort religious groups put into being unique the more they blend in with all the other groups around them. In fact the only way to be truly unique in today’s world is to refuse to chase what the rest are chasing. The folks who reject the world’s trends and insist on remaining with the simple God ordained forms of worship are truly rare and unique. They’re also disliked by the masses who are chasing the current trends. 
 
When Jeroboam set up his false systems of worship for Israel “he made priests of the high places from among all the people; any who would, he ordained to be priests of the high places.” (1 Kings 13:33). Despite God’s strict instructions that only men from the family of Aaron, from the tribe of Levi, could serve as priests, Jeroboam opened it to anyone willing to join him in defying God’s will. Rather than being unique, they blended in with all the pagan nations around them. 
 
Even worse, Jeroboam excluded the actual Levitical priests from serving as priests in his “new” religion. Under the Law of Moses they were scattered throughout the 12 tribes to live among the people and teach. Since Jeroboam prohibited them from serving as priests they had to leave the law of God and blend in with the new pagan system or leave their homes and livelihoods to remain faithful in Judah and Jerusalem – so they left for Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 11:14). 
 
This is where life gets hard for those who would be faithful to God. The religious world offers many, seemingly unique, options for those who would serve the Lord. In reality most are just like Jeroboam’s religion – self-willed rebellion against God’s way. In their effort to be unique they all blend into the same God defying mix. We, that’s you and me, have to decide if we will stay and blend, or leave for the truly unique and blend in with God. With whom do you blend; God or man?

“Oh yeah, you blend.” In the movie “My Cousin Vinny” (IFC, Inappropriate for Christians, for sure) Vinny is a New Yorker claiming to blend in with the native population of a small Alabama town because he was wearing cowboy boots. His girlfriend’s sarcastic response was spot on because, with his leather pants, leather jacket and thick NY accent, he stood out like the proverbial sore thumb. That scene illustrates one of our biggest struggles; the desire to be ourselves while blending in with everyone else. As the scene shows we often fail at both.

That struggle shows up in every aspect of life. The news media all claim to be uniquely the best. Ponder that for a moment. Cowboys all wear a cowboy hat. Goth kids wear the same black clothes and listen to the same music. Corporate leaders all wear the same suits and ties. Entertainers copy each other. In our efforts to stand out we always find ourselves blending in with someone else.

Religion isn’t free from this struggle. The more effort r

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