The Life You Choose

The Life You Choose. 

by David Brenneman 

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it." John 1:1-5.

"There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1:9-14.

"But a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised. But he who is spiritual appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one. For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he will instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ." 1 Corinthians 2:14-16.

In and of ourselves all that we can do, the best we can do apart from the Spirit of God, is to gain an elementary understanding of the Word of God.

An intellectual understanding profits nobody in any way concerning the Word of God.

Satan and his minions have an intellectual understanding of the Word of God. In some respects their understanding does go further...for they know that it will be fulfilled regardless of what they try to do to subvert it or remove it. They know and yet they keep on trying.

They try to remove the Bible from the world but as the Word of God has said He's been writing it on the hearts of men and women who've come to Him for salvation.

As the year wraps up today and I look back over this year and the prior years I look at what all God's done to prove to the world that He is and that by no means has He ever turned anyone away from Him who's wanted salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Those outside of the body of Christ have only a cursory understanding of what Christianity is. 

I've been both fortunate and unfortunate to know people who's only use for God's Word, and His people the Church, is to be warmed by their presence and to benefit from their connections with our Father in Heaven. When that's removed, their true colors are revealed.  

You and I must come to the place in our lives where we choose to accept the free gift of salvation through faith in Christ Jesus alone for the forgiveness of our sins. I can't choose it for you, you can't choose it for someone else. It's a personal choice. The Bible says that to each a measure of faith has been given unto salvation. It's there within you to believe and be saved by Jesus Christ.

Until you do there's extremely little you will ever know of what a life in Christ is like or is all about.

You can't understand it because it's so foreign to you. Much as to me the work, the passion, the drive, the knowledge of a nurse or doctor is foreign to me. I know what they do but do not know the how's the why's the passion that brings that out in them. I cannot understand what they understand.  

"But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:8-13.

Ending this year in a right standing before Jesus and starting 2026 knowing that you are safe in the arms of Jesus is the best gift you will ever give yourself.

Read what Jesus Himself says:

"Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and will then repay every man according to his deeds." Matthew 16:24-27.

"And He summoned the crowd with His disciples, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” Mark 8:34-38.

There's nothing anyone can say to argue why they, in and of themselves, should be allowed into Heaven. Without what Jesus did on the cross, saving themselves is impossible.  

Most everybody knows John 3:16.  

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16.

But have you read the rest of the story to Nicodemus?

"For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But he who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God.” John 3:17-21.

For God so loved you that He gave His only begotten Son, that if you believe in Him, you won't perish but will have eternal life. 

You, my Dear Reader, have to choose whether to come to Christ for salvation or not. Those who choose not to, well Jesus is the Judge who says that all who reject Him will spend eternity in painful torment, forever separated from God.

There are no second chances after you die. Death signs your name on the line determining your destination for all eternity. A life in Christ signs His Name in our place. A life not in Christ signs our own and will send us where we really don't want to be.

Choose wisely my Dear Reader. 

Yes is this life we will see conflicts because of choosing Jesus but since He has overcome so shall we who have trusted Him to be our Lord and Savior.

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

Makes Me Lie Down

Makes Me Lie Down 

by David Brenneman 

"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalms 23:1-6.

As a child, much like every child, going to bed when told to really didn't work out that way well. 

I often figured out how to get up and mess with something.  

Right now I'm sort of feeling like those days all over again. This season of my life is nothing like I have ever envisioned. While I'm not anxious about the present or the future, per se, I am not dealing with this profound silence very well. 

It's not easily explained to others. While I know that God's been providing, our faith history shows He always has, its this silence from the job market that is so supposedly overwhelmingly full of opportunities that's the most irritating to endure. 

This is where my mind comes back around to that verse in Psalms 23. 

Being made to lie down. In his book "A Shepherds Perspective on Psalms 23" W. Keller says "Because of the social behavior within a flock, sheep will not lie down unless they are free from friction with others of their kind. If tormented by flies or parasites, sheep will not lie down. Only when free of these pests can they relax. Lastly, sheep will not lie down as long as they feel in need of finding food. They must be free from hunger. It is significant that to be at rest there must be a definite sense of freedom from fear, tension, aggravations, and hunger. The unique aspect of the picture is that it is only the sheepman himself who can provide release from these anxieties. It all depends upon the diligence of the owner whether or not his flock is free of disturbing influences."

Silence of the kind that I have been going through for 7 months has been that kind that is most reminiscent of nails on a chalkboard. While yes my prayer request in a new job is such that I don't want to be confused by what job to accept...this silence is deafening. 

Being made to rest when I am not used to it is quite honestly frustrating. But it seems this is what I am to do. Especially considering the conversations of late points to the Spirit bringing that particular passage to mind. That of being made to lie down. 

I am reminded of the years that I watched M*A*S*H...yes I watched them before they were ever re-runs. In many episodes they dealt with patients who had to be restrained because what healing they needed required it.

There's comes the second thought to the first. That in some way I need to heal from something that I cannot see. 

The final thought is that this time in my life is to prepare me for what's coming. The training program that the Spirit has me going through each day will have a day in which application will come about. 

I know not what the future holds. I would be lying if I said there was zero anxiety involved. Paul struggled with anxiety at times. Peter did too. Timothy as well.  

My mind doesn't do well with nothing to do...to think about...to figure out. I am used to several trains of thought going on at once. 

Right now most tracks are silent.

I continue to pray and go where lead by God to do. I know of no other thing to be doing.  

The second part is the next verse. He restores my soul. The second part isn't much without the first of being made to lie down. 

He brings me reminders at the right time of His hands working in my life. That I am not alone even though I don't understand and am thoroughly confused. On several occasions the Apostles dealt with the same. Such is the life of a Believer, a Disciple of Jesus Christ. 

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

Don't Despair in Waiting

Don't Despair in Waiting 

by David Brenneman 

Life Principle 14: God acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.

In this hurry-up world, waiting for anything can cause us to lose our temper and our good sense more often than we care to admit. Yet the Word of God insists we learn some of life’s greatest lessons while we wait. Though waiting rooms can be hard classrooms, God promises vast reward to those who wait for Him.

When we wait on God …

We discover His will.

God does not allow delay in giving us the desire of our hearts to lead us along. Rather, even as we wait, He reveals His will to us and works all things together for our good and His glory (Rom. 8:28). 

We receive supernatural energy and strength.

As God deepens our relationship with Him through times of waiting, He also increases our energy, faith, endurance, and strength (Isa. 40: 29-31).

We’re victorious in battle.

When we do things our way in our time, we end up defeated. But when we wait on God and obey His commands, He ensures our victory (Prov. 20:22).

We see the fulfillment of our faith.

Though others may encourage us to forge ahead instead of waiting on the Lord, we must remember He’s the only One who can truly help us and who will never let us down (Is. 49:23).

We witness Him working on our behalf.

While we actively wait, God actively works (Is. 64:4). Every single day, we have the greatest Mediator working on our behalf. And even when things seem to go wrong, He’s making sure that everything works according to His purpose. What a wonderful promise!

Although waiting can be one of the more difficult things in the Christian life, it’s not wasted time. God gives us instructions through periods of actively waiting, keeps us in step with His will, prepares us for His answers, and uses the time to sift our motives and strengthen our faith. When we choose to wait on Him, God will use the long pauses in our lives for our blessing—both large and unexpected—if we let Him. - Life Principles Devotional on the Bible app, Dr. Charles Stanley. 

Waiting has never been my forte, probably not for you as well.   

Yet waiting on God's timing is a requirement to the reception of what comes from Him through prayer.   

When runners prepare for a race, their stamina is built upon the premise that a race pace must be established. While others in the same race burn out early a runner who has patience makes it to the end in their proper time, based on the pace established in their training. 

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us," Hebrews 12:1.

"Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win." 1 Corinthians 9:24.

"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14.

Waiting on God teaches us many things, among which is learning to adapt to His timing. When He established a time table He will see to it that it's met. Daniel prayed several times a day. When he saw in the Scriptures that the days of the exile were completed then he prayed specifically for the Lord to do what He said He would do. The only delay was in the personal response to Daniel, not in the Lord keeping His word. 

Waiting through learning a race pace teaches us to conserve and to better use what we do have.  

Waiting weeds out unnecessary wants and desires from true needs.

Waiting accomplishes much when it's being directed by the Spirit of God. 

We may not understand it. I certainly am in a 6 plus month long period of not really understanding what I am going through. But I do know that I have been shown time and again His provision when it was needed...while I am being taught and told to be patient. 

God loves us more deeply than we can fathom in our finite mind.

God's more interested in our sanctification than our satisfaction with what we perceive in our lives. 

We are in training in righteousness when we're at the feet of Jesus. We're to take in His Word daily as our spiritual nourishment. We are going to have times where we're shown what needs to leave our lives in order to keep with the program of God's sanctifying work in us.  

All this and more awaits those who are patiently waiting on God.

God is never obligated to explain why He’s done or is doing what we go through in our lives.  

Proverbs 3:5-6 is pretty clear about that. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." No where in there is there any promise of a full or partial explanation of your season of life.

Staying in the Word of God daily puts it we within us where it will eventually do the most good.

The training regimen of a runner includes nutrients that will only interact with the runners body when the situation warrants it. 

Patience is something that we are not acclimated to. It's not something we choose. It's something we are taught. 

Prayer must accompany learning patience. Jesus wants to hear from us. Letting go of things in life is also something that comes from learning to wait on God. We are shown what needs to go and are given the opportunity to do it.  

A runner in preparation for a race has to choose what's more important, whatever is in front of them or finishing the race well.

We, in learning to be patient, learn what's truly important in the eyes of God. It's then on us to make the adjustments to align with Him. 

So don't despair of having to wait. 

Thank God for the opportunity and obey as the Spirit leads.

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

Don't Trust Yours

Don't Trust Yours 

by David Brenneman 

Jeremiah 29:23c "and I am He who knows and am a witness,” declares the Lord.’”

"Then she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, “You are a God who sees”; for she said, “Have I even remained alive here after seeing Him?” Genesis 16:13.

"But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7.

"The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the Lord tests hearts." Proverbs 17:3.

“The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give to each man according to his ways, According to the results of his deeds." Jeremiah 17:9-10.

We are the first to deceive and secondly to deceive others by that which we have put in our hearts. 

Quite often Satan's gotten the blame for what we convinced ourselves to do.  

Note what the Lord says to Cain. He said nothing to Cain that implied that Satan was at fault. He made sure that Cain knew that He knew Cain's heart.

"Abel, on his part also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and for his offering; but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard. So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.” Cain told Abel his brother. And it came about when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him." Genesis 4:4-8.

When Nathan confronted King David after his murder of Urriah, Nathan made it clear to King David that the Lord knew David's heart. 

Read in Hebrews 11 the "hall of faith" chapter. Person after person we have a list of people whom the Lord knew their hearts...and in the here and now...He knows your heart and mine. 

We cannot trust our own hearts. We will convince ourselves of our own greatness and success means we're doing right by God and others. Not a good standard to compare to. The Pharisees and Sadducees thought the same of themselves and they were shown how far away from God that they really were. 

But why am I going through what I am going through? Because the Lord knows what it will take to grow your heart in the way it needs to in order to glorify God.  

Without rain, trees don't grow.  

Without storms, tree roots don't go deeper. 

Without troubles our hearts don't grow closer to Jesus.  

Our successes are not measured as the world measures them. In the world's economy our treasures are either in our homes or in some bank or financial institution somewhere. In God's economy our treasures are stored in Heaven where moth and rust do not destroy. Where thieves cannot break in and steal.

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Luke 12:34.

So where's your heart? Are you keeping what God's blessed you with rather than it flowing through your heart and hands to others?

Are you wrapped up in loving things of this world and pursue them rather than a full pursuit of your relationship with Jesus? 

The Disciples lived and taught that a life lived is in full pursuit of a right relationship with Jesus. 

What does your heart show you that you are pursuing?

What comes out of your mouth about other people? Jesus didn't stop loving even the Pharisees and Sadducees any more than He could ever stop loving you. Jesus had the sins of all humanity piled on Him on the cross. Including those of the Pharisees, Sadducees, the likes of King Nebuchadnezzar, Hitler, Stalin, and any other human beings in history. 

Jesus said He came to seek and save the lost. We often read of His knowing people's hearts.

He knows your heart. 

You can and will lie to yourself about what's in your heart but nothing is hidden from Him with whom we have to do. Everything is laid bare to Him. Hebrews 4:13.

You and I must ask Him to show us what needs to change, what needs to go. He knows our hearts. 

We shouldn't trust ourselves that our lives are good. By our own standards we will always look good. We can easily be satisfied by our own views on life. 

We will stand before Jesus to give an account of our lives. Every single person. Ask Jesus to do what He says He needs do do in your life and heart. 

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

All Aspects of Life...All

All Aspects of Life...All.

by David Brenneman 

Life Principle 4: The awareness of God’s presence energizes us for our work.

If you're a Christian, Jesus Christ is the supervisor at your place of work—and He not only watches you from afar, He’s right there with you. You and I need to give a full day’s labor, regardless of whether we think management is fair. Jesus is ultimately the One we serve, and He’s always on site. You and I should do our very best because the Holy Spirit is present, equipping, and energizing us.

We make a terrible mistake by segmenting life. We may think that Monday through Friday we go to work, Saturday we play, and Sunday we worship. God has not designed life that way. If Jesus Christ is our Savior, we can’t exclude Him from any part of life. It isn’t right to teach a Sunday school class with everything we have, then meander into work the rest of the week—we must honor and glorify Him in everything we do. It eliminates the temptation of doing our work merely to be seen by men when we commit ourselves wholeheartedly to Jesus (Matt. 6:24).

Do I mean that your mundane job is also the Lord’s work? Yes! Ministry is not just what you do at church. You worship God every day of the week—on Sunday, you do so in church; on Monday through Friday, you show your devotion to Him by doing a good job at work. Your exalted status as a child of God dignifies your labor, and your office or place of employment should be better off because you are there.

You serve the Lord Jesus Christ (Col. 3:24). Do you have a good testimony in the marketplace for Him? Are you one of your company’s most faithful employees because you serve God? Does your attitude reflect the joy you have in considering Him the real CEO? If so, then you are truly getting the most out of your work.

- Life Principles Study through the Bible App by Dr. Charles Stanley.

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth." Matthew 6:24.

We need to remember to take what Jesus said, as well as the thoughts of Dr. Stanley and make them a filter with which we live our lives.

Our culture as for many generations segregated the Christian Life from the rest of how life is lived. They do their duty by being in Church on a Sunday Morning and are living life as they see fit outside of that. Their mouth declares what's going on in their hearts.  

This shouldn't be for Christians. There should be no living life separate from God's intended will for them.  

A glaring thought is this: why do so many Believer's struggle to have a quiet time with Jesus? Why do they struggle with that...yet have no trouble sitting down to hours of staring at a television screen or a tablet or a phone?  

It's because we cannot serve two masters. Jesus said it and we prove it in our lives.

We prove it by what comes out of our mouths...even in supposed 'fun' we show what's going on in our hearts by what comes out of our mouth. If we are tearing people down 'in fun' then it's not fun at all in the eyes of God. It's working towards destroying your testimony of a person who's supposed to be living in the character of Christ.

When we give in to the desires of our hearts without first checking them to see if they are right in God's eyes...then we're not doing 2 Corinthians 10:5 "We are destroying arguments and all arrogance raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.".

Dr. Stanley also points out the grave mistakes Christian's make in compartmentalizing their lives.

We should never have the attitude of when we leave Church that school's out and now we can run off to do what we really wanted to do. We should not shut people out of our lives because our desires come first. We should not love the world nor the things of this world as the Bible commands us.  

We also ought to realize that idolatry has never left mankind. It's absolutely NOT just something that was in days gone by. Idolatry is anything that is in the lives of anyone that's taken the rightful place of Jesus. Oh we can and will lie to ourselves as to what we have put in His place. We can and will because mankind has done so for thousands and thousands of years.

That's the struggle of the human life and will be until the Final Judgement of God concerning mankind.

Take a deeper look at the lives of the Disciples. While many had wives and family, they left everything to follow Jesus. They had to trust God to take care of the rest while they learned from Jesus. Learning from Jesus was their everything. They didn't get caught up in anything else...and when those things tried to get into the picture...we get lessons about why they shouldn't be in the Gospels.

We eventually are giving what belongs to God to other things when we're not setting our hearts and minds on what God's wanting to do in our lives. 

Colossians 3:23-24 starts out with "Whatever you do", which means from the moment you open your eyes for the new day. It bears the same definition as "everything". This follows up with "do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people". Which means what words come out of your mouth, the things you do with your hands, are to glorify God in Christ Jesus.  

Scripture teaches us to bear one another's burdens and thus fulfill the law of Christ...are people going to WANT you helping them when they hear some of the things that have come out of your mouth?

We are taught by the same Scriptures to: "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things." in Philippians 4:8.

Is cutting people down for any reason obeying that Scripture?

Is saying something that is supposed to be 'in fun' obeying that Scripture?

Is following the crowd in what they're saying and doing obeying that Scripture?

All aspects of our life are to be lived in Christ Jesus. All areas in all things. To this point Jesus said that EVERY careless word we will what? "But I tell you that for every careless word that people speak, they will give an account of it on the day of judgement. For by your words you will be justified, by your words you will be condemned." Matthew 12:36.

We're to take care of what we listen to as well. Luke 8:18. "So take care how you listen".  

Jesus said that what comes out of the heart is what defiles a man. So what are you putting into yours?  

Before you rush into 2026...take a good look at what you're doing and how you're doing and what you're listening to. Are you living your life in Christ as as 24/7 365 day life or do you only give Jesus a few hours on a Sunday and maybe a few minutes throughout the week?  

Do we represent Jesus well as Ambassador's of Christ or not?

Ask Jesus to examine your heart and show you the truth. 

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org

You're Not Going to Expect Me

You're Not Going to Expect Me 

by David Brenneman 

"Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart, saying, “In a certain city there was a judge who did not fear God and did not respect man. There was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying, ‘Give me legal protection from my opponent.’ For a while he was unwilling; but afterward he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow bothers me, I will give her legal protection, otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out.’ ” And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge said; now, will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them? I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”" Luke 18:1-8.

Jesus spoke to John in a vision and gave this great promise to those who remain watchful: “Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake” (Rev. 16:15). - Dr. Charles Stanley, from his devotional notes for Life Principle 30: An eager anticipation of the Lord’s return keeps us living productively.

"Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13.

"But since we are of the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation." 1 Thessalonians 5:8.

“Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and men will not see his shame." Revelation 16:15.

“Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will." Matthew 24:42-44.

Persistent in prayer while looking at the horizon for the return of Jesus. That pretty much sums up where this is going.

Jesus taught both lessons and they weren't just for those there with Him. We're also to be sober in spirit. Seriously living the Christian life with all due diligence. Being aware of the temptations to allow sinful things into our lives that will be disguised as wonderful things. 

Charles Spurgeon was talking about that very thing in the devotional I read last night from the Morning and Evening devotional book. 

Be very aware of what you're permitting in your life that's not God honoring, that in fact you've actually compromised because while so engaged you're setting aside the character of Christ to 'enjoy' it.

We do not know when Jesus will come back.  

How many of you just love getting caught in the middle of doing something you know full well was wrong? A show of hands, who loves to go through the shame and disgrace of being outed for what was a wrong decision or choice?

How many of you just love completely unexpected surprise visits with no time to prepare? Probably not many of you. 

How many of you are actually obeying God by being persistent in prayer? How many rage against people rather than obeying God by praying for them? How many have dreams of revenge when the Bible says that revenge belongs to God?

How many spend much of your life trying to figure out how to get the most money so that your belief that it will solve your problems is proven true? How many of you were very much blessed of God and are spending that on yourself rather than blessing others?

My Dear Reader...all those questions you will find in various forms throughout the Gospels in the teachings of Jesus.  

Our lives should absolutely be spent with the daily expectation of Jesus coming back.

Our lives should absolutely be in persistent prayer.  

Our lives should absolutely be us ever watchful of allowing things that will harm our relationships with others.  

Our lives are supposed to be spent growing in the character of Christ.  

Will Jesus find Believers in persistent prayer when He returns?

Does He hear Believers praying for His quick return?

Are prayers heard by Him of thanksgiving and gratefulness?

You should examine yourself to see if these things are so in your life. 

If they aren't, now you know what to work on in 2026.

Will you be found as one shocked by Jesus returning or will you be eagerly waiting?

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

He Did What We Couldn't Do

He Did What We Couldn't Do 

by David Brenneman 

THE CHRISTMAS SERVANT

"I will give you as to a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness. " Isaiah 42:6-7.

     At Christmas many all of us feel of tremendously cozy as we think about the familiar Nativity story. Filled with all kinds sentimentalism, it is as we entirely possible for us to completely disengage from the whole panorama of God's purpose: to allow familiarity with the scene

to blind us to the awe-inspiring truth that as we look at the baby in a Bethlehem manger, we are looking in on the Servant of God.

     This Servant, Jesus, had a mission. Even Mary and Joseph had only an inkling about all

He would accomplish---yet hundreds of years before Jesus arrived, God had announced what He would do to fulfill His purpose (Isaiah 42:1-4)

     Jesus came to open the eyes of the spiritually blind, During His earthly ministry, He gave a wonderful illustration of this by granting physical healing to the blind. The greatest issue, however, concerned not the body but the soul. He came to open the eyes of men and women who were blind to God's truth.

     The Servant also came to free captives from prison. Many of us have felt the captivity of our guilt, trying countless hoped-for solutions to wash it all away. But nothing works except Jesus. He breaks our chains and sets us free. Once slaves of sin, we have now been rescued. Our Savior releases from the dungeon those who sit in darkness, if only they see His light.

     The story of the Servant is a story not about what we must do but about what Jesus has done. He came down into the dungeon, into our enslavement, into our blindness, and said, You've failed and broken the law, and you are entirely unable to rectify your condition. But I save sinners. I open blind eyes. I release captives. I bring light. I have done everything required for you, Turn to Me in simple faith and childlike trust and you will see. You will be

free, and your darkness will give way to sunshine.

     The one who has done all this is the one you are gazing at as you consider that familiar Nativity scene. Never let it fail to move and inspire you to praise and worship of the divine Son, who came as our Servant.

- Truth for Life, Alistair Begg for December 24th.

Jesus came just as the Scriptures said He would. The leaders of the day knew to look but were more interested in their own piety. That their status was more than what it was. They abused the system and saw nothing wrong with it. They had established a hierarchy that kept them in control. The Scriptures had become nothing more than words on a page. They knew exactly where to look for the Messiah but never looked. 

Fast forward to today. We live in a world where we are gorging on information overload. We have access to looking up the Scriptures unlike any earlier time in human history. Yet it's still missed as to the importance of the Word of God about the coming of the Son of God in the form of a baby in a Bethlehem manger. 

We look all about us at the exceedingly huge commercial venture that Christmas is in the eyes of the world. When children are not more excited about the truth of the birth of Jesus than they are over presents there's a problem. Another generation sucked into the presents meaning more than the reason for the season. 

What is missed is what Alistair Begg says oh so clearly. 

"The Servant also came to free captives from prison. Many of us have felt the captivity of our guilt, trying countless hoped-for solutions to wash it all away. But nothing works except Jesus. He breaks our chains and sets us free. Once slaves of sin, we have now been rescued. Our Savior releases from the dungeon those who sit in darkness, if only they see His light.

     The story of the Servant is a story not about what we must do but about what Jesus has done. He came down into the dungeon, into our enslavement, into our blindness, and said, You've failed and broken the law, and you are entirely unable to rectify your condition. But I save sinners. I open blind eyes. I release captives. I bring light. I have done everything required for you, Turn to Me in simple faith and childlike trust and you will see. You will be

free, and your darkness will give way to sunshine.

     The one who has done all this is the one you are gazing at as you consider that familiar Nativity scene."

Jesus came to a world not looking for Him. 

I think this is what He meant by finding the faith when He returns. 

Will He find a world yet still not looking for Him?

We read in the latter parts of the book of Luke where the Jewish leaders realized completely that some of Jesus's parables were about them specifically in that they missed the coming of the Kingdom of God in the person of the Messiah before them.  

Jesus is God. Jesus is the real reason for this season. It's not about what gifts we get or don't get. It's not about anything but the reason we find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger...that at the right time Jesus came to save sinners such as all of us. Doing what we could never do to make the way to finally be right before a Holy God. 

So stop and really reflect on what today is really about before you start complaining about all that isn't right in your life.  

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

More than the Day Before

More than the Day Before 

by David Brenneman 

Joy to the world; the Lord is come;

Let Earth receive her King;

Let ev'ry heart prepare him room,

And heav'n and nature sing.

Joy to the Earth, the Savior reigns;

Our mortal songs employ,

While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains,

Repeat the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,

Nor thorns infest the ground;

He comes to make his blessings flow

Far as the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove

The glories of his righteousness,

And wonders of his love.

- "Joy to the World" Isaac Watts 1719.

A star in the East leading Wise Men to Him

He and His mother bringing gifts to them

A sign telling all the Christ Child is born

On this first Christmas morn

Shepherds lay trembling from fear some were fleeing

The East sky ablaze what could they be seeing

They heard of a Savior soon to be born

Had he come on this first Christmas morn

Could this be the day a new world begins

Can this tiny child walk through life free from sin

Has mankind been blessed with a port from all storms

On this first Christmas morn

These things came to pass as now we all know

May these thoughts be planted in our minds to grow

Let's not forget why He wore a crown of thorns

On this next Christmas morn

Could this be the day a new world begins

Can this tiny child walk through life free from sin

Has mankind been blessed with a port from all storms

On this first Christmas morn

-"The First Christmas Morn" - Charley Pride 1970

Today's Christmas Eve and in many ways its more than the day before Christmas. The world's not lost in its ability to be wrapped up in turmoil. Wars still rage, cities are wracked with crime and people are still trying to do whatever is right in their own eyes.  

Not what you were expecting is it?

In the days of Christmas past, the very first Christmas that is, the silence from God for over 400 years was broken by the coming of the forerunner of the Lord, John the Baptist. Then again at the coming of the Son of God in the flesh, Jesus Christ. The world was full of the same as it is today. Religious leaders having established a rule and regulation system that they profited from. Real thoughts weren't happening anymore to honestly looking to the fulfillment of the Scriptures. Same as it is today.

"Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” For when they maintain this, it escapes their notice that by the word of God the heavens existed long ago and the earth was formed out of water and by water, through which the world at that time was destroyed, being flooded with water. But by His word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:3-9.

Many live lives today in much this same way. Many preaching a gospel that isn't what Jesus meant. They take advantage of people and profit off of them.

The promise of His coming the first time is what tomorrow is all about. 

The promise of His return is as much a certainty as the first time. 

EC people need to realize the times in which they live and realize they're at the doorstep of eternity at any given moment. EC people show up at a Church on Easter and Christmas only. This hardly constitutes a real relationship with Jesus who was beyond abused, beaten, spit upon, scourged, forced to carry His own cross, everything necessary to save them from an eternity separated from God. 

The angels came to the shepherds to tell of what they could hardly contain! Hundreds of Scriptures were being fulfilled and they were the first to be privy to it. They couldn't help but run to go see for themselves. 

Doesn't Christmas mean more to you than presents and a meal? Doesn't it mean more than what you get out of it?

The angels probably still celebrate that first Christmas morn and in ways the world has quickly forgotten.  

Remembering why He came starts with how great the love of the Father has for each of us that He would send His Son to die in our place. Gold, frankensense and myrrh. Gold for His royalty. Frankensense for His sacrificial offering. Myrrh for His eventual death.  

Satan would love it all the more if you would lose sight of what this time of year is really about. As the story goes Charles Schultz insisted on Linus saying what Christmas is all about because if they wouldn't, who would?  

"In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” Luke 2:8-14.

Turn your whole heart to receive the greatest gift of all if you haven't chosen yet to receive the free gift of salvation. That's why Jesus came. That's why He died and arose 3 days later. He came to save you.

Remember these things tomorrow morning before you get into the presents and the family gathering. 

Remember it too if you haven't family or presents either. 

Jesus Christ is the greatest gift of all.

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

Yes, More Than Words on a Page

Yes, More Than Words on a Page 

by David Brenneman 

O come, let us adore Him;

O come, let us adore Him;

O come, let us adore Him,

Christ, the Lord.

We'll praise His name forever,

we'll praise His name forever

we'll praise His name forever,

Christ, the Lord.

We'll give Him all the glory,

we'll give Him all the glory,

we'll give Him all the glory,

Christ, the Lord.

For He alone is worthy,

For He alone is worthy,

For He alone is worthy,

Christ, the Lord.

- John Francis Wade, 1743

There's a quote from the 1995 movie "Mr. Holland's Opus" that I like when it comes to things like music and perhaps other things in life that aren't taught in any other way. 

"Playing music is supposed to be fun. It's about heart, it's about feelings, moving people, and something beautiful, and it's not about notes on a page. I can teach you notes on a page, I can't teach you that other stuff."- Mr. Holland, of Mr. Holland's Opus.

Much like what he was talking about there, we can see in that great hymn of old that's set to "Adeste Fideles".  

There's much more to a life in Christ than can be found on words on a page. It can be explained, and has been for centuries, on how to get to that specific, unique, door of Christ to learn for yourself, but you will only experience a life in Christ by coming to Christ.

Christ came over 2,000 years ago to be the way to Heaven. Not to make one more way among hundreds of other ways, but to be THE way to Heaven.

Many many people get close to those who are in Christ thinking by some form of osmosis that by proximity they can have the grace of God rub off on them and that in the universal scheme of things it will matter when they stand before Jesus.

No, my Dear Reader, that's an impossibility. No more than my standing amongst those of an orchestra makes me someone who can play an instrument.  

You need your own relationship with Jesus that can begin this very moment should you ask for His free gift of salvation that came about because of Him leaving Heaven for Earth that we celebrate right now.

No you're not so dirty that He wouldn't want you.  

No you're not so sinful that He would have nothing to do with you.

No you're not anything that He wouldn't run across the universe to save you.  

That's more than words on a page...but it IS on a page...in fact many pages. It's throughout the Scriptures of how the Father's plan was for the Son to give His life in our place. That is what is celebrated each Easter. That is the true day that will live in infamy.

Jesus has a gift for you if only you would open your heart to receive it my Dear Reader. It doesn't take much on your part other than to ask for it. Then all the standing near Christian's for the warmth of Christ will be a lot more than you ever could expect to understand or to know.

How can you know what this gift is?  

"But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:8-13.

This relates right back to what the Angels said in the book of Luke about His coming. 

"In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” Luke 2:8-14.

Jesus would have run across all time and space to save such a one as yourself. 

My Dear Reader, come let us adore Him together and ask to receive the greatest gift of all...eternal life in Christ and the forgiveness of your sins.

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org

Just the Facts

Just the Facts 

by David Brenneman 

"In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” Luke 2:8-14. 

“Now there was a rich man, and he habitually dressed in purple and fine linen, joyously living in splendor every day. And a poor man named Lazarus was laid at his gate, covered with sores, and longing to be fed with the crumbs which were falling from the rich man’s table; besides, even the dogs were coming and licking his sores. Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried out and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things; but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you there is a great chasm fixed, so that those who wish to come over from here to you will not be able, and that none may cross over from there to us.’ And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, that you send him to my father’s house— for I have five brothers—in order that he may warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’ But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ But he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!’ But he said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’ ” Luke 16:19-31.

What would the story of Jesus coming have to do with the story of the Rich man and Lazarus? That's probably one of your first questions.  

There's something very significant about the story of the Rich man and Lazarus that sticks out to the one really looking at it. Unlike other parables this one looks to be said from a historical context. As in it was taken from actual history.

The story of the angels coming to tell the shepherds that the Savior was coming that very night and where to go certainly is written from actual history. Hundreds of Old Testament prophecies coming together all in one night.

Facts are facts and the fact is what we read is part of the Word of God and should be taken for how Jesus wants it to be in order to impact our lives and the lives of those around us.

We like to cozy up to the story of Jesus coming. As one friend pointed out recently...most all nativity scene sets are set up wrong concerning the facts of when the wise men showed up. They showed up several years later when Joseph and Mary were in a house.

Facts are facts is something akin to evidence in a case in a court.

In Christ's mission and in His teaching...facts were the facts because He IS truth. He cannot convey anyting that is not.

If we believe the narrative of the birth of Jesus as foretold of by the angels then we ought to certainly believe the rest of the teachings of Jesus...including the not so nice parts of the reality if sin and death.

The reality of sin and death began being interwoven into what Jesus taught and conveyed after it was fully clear that the Jewish leaders had rejected Jesus as the Messiah. What was probably the topic of conversation at the transfiguration was that very subject. History shows us the facts as Jesus said they were and how they would be. by 70 AD exactly as Jesus said would be...the Roman's came and obliterated Jerusalem and the Temple. Even their own said that this kind of rage against a city could only be as God being that angry with His people.

Doesn't sound very 'Christmasy' does it? Well, my Dear Reader, not everything Jesus said, when He said it, was received well no matter when the time of year was. He was living out the Father's plan for Him as the Father wanted it, said in the way that the Father wanted it said.

Our time on Earth is finite. There's no way of knowing when we will breathe our last. Our very breath is a gift from God. Each heartbeat is by His divine providence. We know not when we will step into eternity but be very much assured we ALL will step into eternity. Just as assuredly as the birth of Jesus.

Facts are facts...Jesus said we know not the day nor the hour of His return...but we are both forewarned and have been told to be ready for it.

Facts are facts...Jesus said that He came to die for sinners. To pay the price they couldn't pay. Which means it doesn't matter what anyone believes...the God of the Universe says that there IS an eternal penalty for sin. For those who have come to Christ it's been covered by the shed blood of Jesus. For those who have not and or refuse to acknowledge it...their sin remains as does the eternal punishment. Only a taste of it is revealed in this story of the Rich Man and Lazarus.

Facts are facts...this time of year most celebrate the birth and coming of the Savior of all mankind.  

Facts are facts...not everyone wants to acknowledge that they are in need of a Savior.

Facts are Facts my Friend...you need to decide whether or not Jesus is who He said He is...nobody can choose for you.

The greatest gift every offered sits at the feet of everyone who's ever lived. The fact is you must choose it. You must decide to come to Christ to be saved. Nobody can do it for you. Your choice will either put you where the Rich man is today or it will put you in Heaven with Jesus when your time comes.

What must someone do to be saved?  

"But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:8-13.

Your presents that might come in a few days will eventually wear out or break. What you get from coming to Jesus for to be saved...will last for eternity. 

Facts are facts...God so loved you that He gave His only begotten Son that if you believe in Him you will not perish but have everlasting life.

Those are the Facts...

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org 

Your Choice Too

Your Choice Too
by David Brenneman

Grateful Joy
You have been my help, and in the
shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.
PSALM 63.7

     There are people whose circumstances give them good reason to complain and yet their attitude is surprisingly joyful. What is the key to their wonderful outlook? Gratefulness.
     I remember seeing this principle in action one morning morning many years ago. I woke up discouraged, so I spent some time in God's Word. However, my mood was still heavy, so I decided to go to
work even though it was still very early. Along the way, I went to a small drive-thru and ordered a biscuit. The elderly man who
greeted me at the window was amazingly cheerful. His smile and
bright countenance were infectious. As he handed me my food, I asked him why he was so happy so early in the morning. He said, "At my age, I don't take any day for granted. So I've made it a habit to always thank God for the gift of another day." I drove away encouraged, and I've never forgotten his positive words
     The person who keeps a grateful heart despite their circumstances has learned the secret of joy. So when you're gloomy, think of all the blessings the Lord has given you and praise Him. Because when you're thankful, gladness will certainly follow.

Jesus, help me to be the kind of person who always gives You
thanks, Amen.
- Trusting God with Today, Dr. Charles Stanley.

It's very easy to wrap ourselves up in the feelings that come from our circumstances. 

I certainly have had days such as Dr. Stanley talks about here.  Each day I wake up I, the same as you, are going to face choices to walk as Jesus did or walk our own way.

We will either exude goodness or goodness mixed with complaints or just complaints. 

"And He was saying, “That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man.  For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. All these evil things proceed from within and defile the man.” Mark 7:20-23.

Some know the saying of garbage in garbage out.  What you put into your mind and heart is what will eventually come out of it.

It's a big part of changing your attitude towards gratitude by taking your thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ Jesus. 

It also means watching what you listen to.  Jesus explicitly warned people to watch what they listen to. 

We're to be Ambassadors for Christ.  We are to expect ourselves and others in Christ to behave a certain way.  Not just in public but in private as well.

The choice is yours my Dear Reader to do better at your reactions to your circumstances and your reactions to others.  Who will people see when they hear you?

Who will be known by knowing you? 

We must choose to be intentional on guarding our hearts.  Proverbs 4:23 tells us to guard our hearts. 

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7.

"Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.  The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9.

What are you taking into your heart and mind that isn't doing you any favors?  What is bringing out the negativity in you from what you've taken into your heart?

We are in a culture of podcasts, YouTube influencers, and the like.  Talk shows that stir us up and not in any good way. 

We need to heed what Jesus said by way of a command:  Watch what you listen to!  It is GOING to impact how those in your life see you.  Much like Dr. Stanley's example here.

Who would you rather be known for?  As a fully devoted follower of Jesus Christ or as someone no different than everyone else in this dying world?  What will Jesus say you're acting like?

The choice is yours.

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission.
New American Standard Bible
(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation.
A corporation not for profit.  
La Habra, CA All rights reserved
www.lockman.org

You ARE Invited...Are YOU Making Excuses?

You ARE Invited...Are YOU Making Excuses?
by David Brenneman

"But He said to him, “A man was giving a big dinner, and he invited many;  and at the dinner hour he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for everything is ready now.’  But they all alike began to make excuses. The first one said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of land and I need to go out and look at it; please consider me excused.’ Another one said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please consider me excused.’ Another one said, ‘I have married a wife, and for that reason I cannot come.’ And the slave came back and reported this to his master. Then the head of the household became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in here the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’  And the slave said, ‘Master, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’  And the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the highways and along the hedges, and compel them to come in, so that my house may be filled.  For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste of my dinner.’ ” Luke 14:16-24.

Ever since He arose from the dead the invitation has been decreed, sent out, to one, to all. 

We celebrate the birth of Jesus this time of year...the beginning of the invitation being written on the hearts of mankind. 

The Scriptures say that everyone will be without excuse in the day of judgment.  Everyone will have had their own unique encounter with the Savior, it will only depend on whether or not they say yes to His invitation for salvation or not.

There's no hidden fees or exclusions...the free gift of salvation is open to all who would ask. 

"But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.  For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.”  For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:8-13.

The lies of the world will go on and on about everything you're going to lose.  They will indeed gladly help you create your own excuse for rejecting the pleading of God towards you in Christ Jesus. 

The choice you make...the decision decided upon...has eternal ramifications for you. 

Take a good look at the headlines of the last week alone.  Many people all thought they had a tomorrow.  Many went to sleep the night before thinking about what they believed with complete certainty would be going on in their days ahead.  Now their eternal destination has been established. 
From very young to very old no one knows when their time on Earth is up.  The facts for all who don't accept the free gift of salvation is that their lives ended because they absolutely wouldn't have asked and their continued life wouldn't help anyone else to find it.

Many today are all looking at their wares.  Their possessions.  Their status.  Their money.  Believing that they have no need for any relationship with Jesus.  Believing that they would be made to live a life they would never ever enjoy.

Oh the truth that is hidden from their eyes! 

Consider this from Jesus: "Then He said to them, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.” And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man was very productive.  And he began reasoning to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’  Then he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods.  And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry.” ’  But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?’ Luke 12:15-20.

Everyone who rejects the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ alone...is guaranteed to never see Heaven.   There's no scales of good vs bad to determine entry through Heavens gates.  There's no hoping that the good outweighs the bad.  Likewise there's no party going on in Hell.  There's no big kegger going on for those who wake up in Hell.

“Now there was a rich man, and he habitually dressed in purple and fine linen, joyously living in splendor every day. And a poor man named Lazarus was laid at his gate, covered with sores, and longing to be fed with the crumbs which were falling from the rich man’s table; besides, even the dogs were coming and licking his sores.  Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and *saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried out and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things; but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony.  And besides all this, between us and you there is a great chasm fixed, so that those who wish to come over from here to you will not be able, and that none may cross over from there to us.’  And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, that you send him to my father’s house—  for I have five brothers—in order that he may warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’  But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’  But he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!’ But he said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’ ” Luke 16:19-31.

The greatest gift you can receive this year isn't wrapped in paper with a bow. 

The greatest gift was when Jesus shed His blood on a cross for you to make it possible for you to be with Him forever. 

But you still need to ask Him to become the forgiver of your sins and the leader of your life. 

Sin, Hell, death, all the painful things related to it are entirely real.

Forgiveness, Heaven, life, all the rewards of a life given to Christ amounting to everything worthy is possible only through a life in Christ for those who ask Him to save them. 

Which gift will mean more for you in eternity?  The free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ or the lies of the world that only end in eternal separation from God in a painful tormented way?

The choice is yours...

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission.
New American Standard Bible
(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation.
A corporation not for profit.  
La Habra, CA All rights reserved
www.lockman.org

Change Your Mind, Change Your Heart

Change Your Mind, Change Your Heart 

"The things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man."

Matthew 15:18

     Most people don't realize how essential it is that they control their thoughts. They'll say', "I don't think about the sinful things that would compromise my relationship with God." However, they completely miss how much their ugly, critical, and bitter thoughts and feelings toward themselves and others impact their lives. We all view ourselves in light of what we believe to be true. So even if we subconsciously live by a negative belief system concerning who we are, then we will not experience all the joy and blessings Jesus has for us.

     Therefore, my challenge to you is to refuse any negative or disparaging thought that arises about yourself or others. If your inner voice says you are unworthy or inadequate, look in the mirror and tell yourself, "I am a child of God, and He loves me just the way I am-end of discussion!" If some wrong comes to mind, reply, "I forgive them in the power and love of Jesus!" Change the way you think by replacing your undesirable, unconstructive thought patterns with God's Word.  Because that is the way He will transform your life and make you more like Jesus. And that's certainly a subject worth thinking about.

Jesus, identify my negative thoughts and replace them with

Your Word, Amen.

- Trusting God with Today, Dr. Charles Stanley.

It's a difficult morning for me. Another day, with another rejection of a potential employer. Yet, in this, I think that God was beginning to prepare me last night when I read this particular devotional.

Yet in this too, as Dr. Stanley would have agreed, passed through the fingers of my Savior to get to me. Nothing that we encounter as children of God, saved in the Lord Jesus Christ, can get to us unless it's been approved to do so.

We aren't victim's of circumstances when our circumstances are at the orderly direction of our loving Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Even the Apostles often found themselves dispairing even of life at times. Life can happen like getting hit by a truck of which I can testify that hurts. Been there done that and they weren't making t-shirts to prove it at the time.

My first thoughts after reading my latest rejection was to still pray to Jesus about it. He knows of my weariness after 6 months of this.

My second thoughts were of this devotional. Plus the 2 others from this same book that I went as far as to print and put before me at my study to see and be reminded of throughout my day.   

God loves me. His love for me is profound and personal in ways I've yet to discover and probably won't see fully until that day I get to be held in His arms welcoming me to His Heaven.

Regardless of circumstances...the love of Jesus Christ for all who believe is unwavering, unshaking.

I know not where my next job will come from but I know that He knows what kind of burden it is on my heart right now. He knows my discouragement, my saddness over it. I know that He knows the truth behind being in this situation that I did nothing wrong.

In this time of life for me I do think that a few things are stacked against me. One is my age, the other is that particular black mark from 6 months ago. Even though I was exonerated by the State of Ohio as to having been wrongfully discharged, people still see that.

Yet in all that...I know that God will still place me in a new job soon. What He starts He always finishes.

Scriptures says that. "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6.  

Doing a search on my Bible App in the NASB, on what all my Savior says He will finish or complete, look at these passages.

Proverbs 3:5-6, John 14:27, Philippians 4:13, Galatians 6:9, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:28, 1 Corinthians 12:9, hebrews 12:1-2, James 1:12, Luke 12:32, John 1:12, Romans 15:13, Ephesians 3:12, Philippians 4:6-7, Colossians 3:2, Colossians 3:23, and 2 Timothy 1:7.

We have, I have, many reasons to still yet hope in the Lord even in the face of such discouragement. Habakkuk had much astonishment, and shock at what the plans of the Lord were going to be but yet said he would still look to the Lord as his salvation.

While days like today have started out being are extemely difficult, they are not unnoticed by my Savior concerning their impact on my heart.  

His plans for me will still yet stand no matter what anyone has to say about it. That's just a fact of the spiritual life. 

I took these things this morning and put them at the feet of Jesus like all the other burdens of my heart.  

The important thing yet still is that God loves me. I am a child of God and as Dr. Stanley put it...that settles it...end of story.

Lastly...we learn perseverance through these things. Jesus did in His time here on Earth and so shall we. 

"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Romans 5:1-5.

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org

Listen

Listen 

by David Brenneman 

Life Principle 22: To walk in the Spirit is to obey the initial promptings of the Spirit.

To whom do you turn for daily guidance on how to live or what decisions to make?

Scripture tells us the only Guide worth trusting is the Holy Spirit. He’s the One who knows our pasts completely and our futures, from this day to eternity. He knows God’s plan and purpose for each of us, and He knows what’s good and right for us.

Jesus repeatedly referred to the Spirit as the “Spirit of truth” and told us, “He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come” (John 16:13). It’s the Spirit of truth that’s always pointing us toward what Jesus would be, say, or do in any given moment.

God wants us to know what to do and when to do it, and we can truly trust His Spirit to be our Guide. But there are conditions placed upon the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

First, we must stay yielded to the Spirit. We must say yes when He prompts us to take certain action or speak a certain word. We must give mental assent to the Spirit’s direction and then actually obey His prompting, following through with what He’s called us to do.

Second, we must believe His guidance. We’re much more likely to hear what the Holy Spirit has to say if we’re actively listening for Him to speak. We’re much more likely to see the Holy Spirit’s direction if we’re looking for Him. Hebrews 11:6 tells us that God is a “rewarder of those who seek Him.” We’re to be diligent in seeking His guidance, asking for it, watching for it, anticipating it, and receiving it.

The Holy Spirit has come to reveal the truth to us. He has come in His all-knowing ability to impart what we need to know in order to live obedient and faithful lives. Trust Him to guide you, now and always.

- Life Principles Devotional on the Bible app. 

"And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him." Hebrews 11:6.

"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come." John 16:13.

"But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." James 1:5-8.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!" Matthew 7:7-11.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil." Proverbs 3:5-7.

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28.

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13.

There's a lot of Scripture that can cover what it means to listen and then do. A lot more than I can probably share in this post today. 

When presented with something that's significant in your life, leaping before knowing is never a good option. You may not know things and the end result would be worse than it could have been.

So ask of God, as the Bible says, and He'll make things known that you didn't know if you but listen first. 

God doesn't mind our asking questions to clarify. Asking questions to avoid doing is probably another matter for another time.

The initial devotional by Dr. Stanley had the following two passages included for reference. The rest are what I was lead to add to it this morning. Listening to the Spirit.

Yesterday I had reason to ask of God and wait for an answer because I wasn't sure of what course of action to take. I believe that what I heard and what I did was the right course of action by the end of the day.  

That passage of trusting in the Lord with all your heart also means not laying that trust anywhere else.

Listening to the Spirit is what put this blog out there for the world to read. 6 and half plus years ago was the prompting to start writing and sending it out. God provided the words to be said and it was upon me to say them. He provided the means for it to get out to the world in a place where it could be and would be easily found. 1.6 million views later the proof is in the pudding with listening and obeying.

What is also part of that story is a time way back in the end of the 1990's when I didn't listen first and did not ask first before treading on the scorpions to come. I was not ready for what was to come and my life went into a tailspin of deeper and deeper troubles. Making choices that, if it weren't for the hand of God in my life, would have ended my life.

Listening to the Spirit should be our first place to go. Ananias, when told to go to where the notorious Saul was staying, had questions. He wasn't rebuked for the questions. His questions were entirely valid. He needed to know for sure that what he was being told to do lined up with his life in Christ.

The rest is history because of his obedience...and his asking...and listening to the promptings of the Spirit of God.

Life is going to have both major and minor forks in the road. It's going to have times when being assertive matters and times when it won't matter. But life is never about us going through life alone when we're saved in Christ Jesus.

It will be very very interesting how the lives of Job's friends changed after their encounter with the preincarnate Christ. The youngest friend of Job's life certainly seems to have been on the right track but still I imagine his was enriched for being there...and why couldn't it have been?  

Listening before speaking is always good. Listening before doing can be as well. There's times when the situation warrants leaping into action and others when it's more prudent to look things over first.

The part of the story of Mary and Martha that's the ear catcher is the truth that Jesus said that Martha chose the better part....to listen to Jesus and it would not be taken from her.

Many in our lives can have the best of intentions and maybe they're right in the long run. Job's friends certainly had the best of intentions. Job's Wife certainly thought that her intentions were right. Her life too was changed considerably by what her husband went through and she had a hand in his being so prosperous after all was done.

The Scriptures tell us this truth:

"O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, You know it all. You have enclosed me behind and before, And laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, Even there Your hand will lead me, And Your right hand will lay hold of me. If I say, “Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, And the light around me will be night,” Even the darkness is not dark to You, And the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to You. For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I awake, I am still with You. O that You would slay the wicked, O God; Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed. For they speak against You wickedly, And Your enemies take Your name in vain. Do I not hate those who hate You, O Lord? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? I hate them with the utmost hatred; They have become my enemies. Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way." Psalms 139:1-24.

Scripture also tells us to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ in 2 Corinthians 10:5.

It's very very easy to lean on my own understanding. When you have a mind that seems to have been hardwired for troubleshooting, figuring things out is your hobby, why wouldn't you?

The why comes because we are yet still learning what it means to be fully devoted followers of Christ.

The why comes because our obedience and seeking first His kingdom and His righteousness is something we yet need to learn.  

The Disciples had to learn it and they learned from listening first. We have a few examples of when Peter spoke without thinking about what was said.  

Listen. First.

In my situation yesterday I was presented with something to do and it, to me, was very significant.

I sought out what God would have me do. Immediately it came to mind to ask one who would know better than I ever could for they were in a far better position to know than I ever would. They too sought to know so they too asked of God for wisdom on how to respond...the same as I was doing. Several hours later they made mention of what they believe the Spirit was telling them to say to me after they had prayed about it.  

Listen first...and if there's something for us to do...then obey in doing with all our being. Colossians 3:23-24. 

When Peter was restored by Jesus after the resurrection...Peter had a lot of listening to do in order to come to that place he needed to be which was where the Lord was taking him. Where would the church of God be if he had not?

Paul had a lot of listening to do in those days when his sight was taken from him. Jesus had a very much attentive Paul in his mind and heart that was now ready to listen. Paul, then known as Saul thought he knew it all from his having been taught by the best. That is until Jesus showed him that wasn't the case.

Listen then obey. Our lives will be so much the better, the Church will do far more than ever thought possible if we but do that.

All NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. 

New American Standard Bible 

(C) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. 

A corporation not for profit.   

La Habra, CA All rights reserved 

www.lockman.org