Is Your Sexuality a Choice? (Part 2)

My motive in this blog is to speak the truth in love in regards to the issue of homosexuality. As a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, it is my desire and my duty to make sure people know what God teaches about this topic. I feel the greatest way I can demonstrate love is by telling people the truth. Sometimes the truth hurts. Sometimes it contradicts our feelings and challenges our thoughts. However, truth will ultimately set us free if we will embrace it. Let me give you an illustration from my parenting.

I love my three sons. One of the main ways I show them my love is through discipline. They rarely like my discipline and many times wish I would let them do what they want. For example, my five year old wants to constantly ride his razor in the street. I’m sure it is fun for him to play in the street, but it is not safe. My love for him teaches him not to play in the street, and instructs him to stay in the driveway. If I did anything less as I parent, I would be negligent and irresponsible instead of loving.

As a parent or a pastor, one of the greatest ways I can express love to people is by telling them the truth.

In our “Choices” series, during the message “Is Your Sexuality a Choice”, Pam Ousley shared her testimony and answered many questions about homosexuality. I want to encourage you to listen to the message on our ENT Podcast. In this blog, I want to highlight some of the questions we talked about.

1. Is there any scientific evidence that proves homosexuality is a matter of birth or genetics?

No. Research indicates that there is simply no correlation between homosexual behavior and genetics. Studies conducted by Johns Hopkins University, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, pro-homosexual scientist Evelyn Hooker and Masters and Johnson all deny a genetic link. They agree the connection between genetics and homosexuality is a myth. No scientific study affirming homosexuality has ever been replicated.

2. Is it true that 10% of the population is gay?

No. Even though this is a common myth purported by popular culture and flawed reporting to justify homosexual behavior, it simply is not true. We need to tell the person struggling with their sexual identity that they have been lied to by our popular culture. The truth is not that one in ten people are functioning as homosexuals. In fact, the number may be more like 1.5 to 2 people out of 100. For example, in 1994 the American sex survey, the most exhaustive piece of work that’s ever been done in this country about people’s sexual orientation, found that 2.7% of the population were homosexual men and 1.3 were homosexual women.

3. Is the homosexual lifestyle a normal, healthy “alternative” to heterosexuality?

• No. Over 50% of all homosexual men are carriers of the human papilloma virus, which produces anal warts and can often lead to anal cancer, according to Stephen Goldstone, assistant clinical professor of surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center, speaking at a 1999 Gay Men’s Health Summit in Boulder, CO.
• Male homosexuals are about 1000 times more likely to acquire AIDS than the general population (National Center for Infectious Diseases, 1992).
• A survey of more than 2300 gays in New York and three other cities found that 37% of men and 14% of women reported having a non-HIV sexually transmitted disease.
• Hepatitis B is about 5 times more prevalent among homosexuals than among heterosexual men, according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 1976-1994 (American Journal of Public Health).
• 78% of gay men have had or have an STD, according to H.H. Hartfield in “Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Homosexual Men” from 1981.
• The average age of death for gay males in the U.S. is 42 (only 9% live past age 65) while the median age of a married heterosexual man is 75 (Dr. E. Fields, “Is Homosexual Activity Normal?”).
• 40% of homosexuals report they have had more than 40 partners; 24% report they have had more than 100 partners (genre Magazine, 10/96).
• Homosexuals account for 3-4% of all gonorrhea cases, 60% of all syphilis cases, and 17% of all hospital admissions (other than STDs) in the United States (Lancet, April 25, 1987).

4. Do feelings and attractions to the same sex mean I’m a homosexual?

No. People who have same-sex feelings, urges, or fantasies does not mean in any way, shape, or form that they are gay. If a person is tempted to steal, this does not mean they are a kleptomaniac. Nor does it mean that they are a career criminal. If a person feels the urge to hit someone because they are angry, slugging someone does not become a legitimate and accepted behavior because of feelings. We all are contaminated with sin that causes us to feel and act contrary to God’s righteous standards. Our feelings must be dealt with according to truth.

5. Is it true that once someone is a homosexual, they are always a homosexual?

No. Pam Ousley and many others are great examples of people who have been set free from this lifestyle. Remember, a person with an experience is never at the mercy of a person with an argument.

Both extensive research and the records of many, many people who have come out of the homosexual lifestyle refute this premise. The greatest hope, though, is given to us in the Bible. In 1 Corinthians, after naming many of the sins that are an affront to God, including homosexuality, we are given one of the most hopeful and joyful verses of all Scripture. In verse 11 of chapter 6 we are told: “and such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God (NAS).”

Let us remember here that this was a letter to the church in Corinth. Corinth was the San Francisco of its day, with both male and female prostitutes in abundance. Within the city, a person could be involved in an orgy any time of the day or night, with their choice of sexual orientations.

As Corinthian citizens came to Christ, they had as much baggage ads any of us could imagine. These people were not just homosexuals, but adulterers, idol worshippers, thieves, robbers. They were people just like us; they were sinners. But Paul dismisses their past completely. At the moment they placed their faith in Christ, they were washed and sanctified by Him and made sinless before God. You see, the God of the Bible offers hope. Homosexuality is not a new sin, an unforgivable sin, or a lifestyle that can’t be changed. (Chip Ingram)

6. Are all Christians “homophobic”?

No. However, the tragedy of today’s dialogue between the gay community and the church is that this premise is too often true. Again, for this I deeply and sincerely apologize.

As Christians, we need to communicate to gays that we are willing to “step up the to plate” and speak the truth, but that we are committed to letting love, acceptance, and God’s grace rule our words and actions. We need to tell them that just as many of us have left sinful patterns and habits behind, and so can they. We must commit to stand with them, overcoming our own prejudice and fear. Together we will see God bring forgiveness and transformation to lives in need of healing.

7. Is there a church that will accept me and help me deal with my gay feelings?

Yes. Every Nation Tallahassee would love to help anyone struggling with this issue. Also, I would be happy to meet with anyone who would want to talk about this topic. I desire to extend the love and truth of Jesus to anyone seeking help. I am a person who has been changed by the grace and mercy of God. I recognize and have not forgotten my own need for God’s forgiveness. Once again, my motive is love.

Is Your Sexuality a Choice?

We, the church of Jesus Christ, need to begin our dialogue with an apology to the gay and lesbian community. As believers, we have a very poor track record for handling the issue of homosexuality. The church, by and large, has reacted to the matter in two different extremes, and neither is healthy or helpful.

At one end there are the condemning Christians, those who hold up a big, black Bible, yell slurs and accusations, and coldly present the truth of God—minus his love. At the other extreme, there are members of the church of Jesus Christ who not only condone the homosexual lifestyle, but also ordain gay clergy. These Christians propose that God approves of the gay lifestyle and that because of His love for all people, there should be no condemnation. By not presenting a well-reasoned, loving and biblical response, we, the community of believers, have done a profound disservice to all those in the gay community, including their families and friends. We have either been all truth with no love, or we have been all love with no truth. Both are extremely destructive errors for which we owe a sincere apology.

Our goal, then, should be to speak the truth, based on facts, with and through an attitude of love. We must think clearly through this issue, examining the findings of both medical and social science. We must see what God has to say through the Bible and listen to what the homosexual community believes. Our dialogue must begin with honesty and mutual respect. To take this step we must first understand the position taken by the pro-homosexual community and the presuppositions that support that position. We will then lovingly present the biblical position.

The previous three paragraphs were written by Chip Ingram in his booklet called: “Homosexuality: A Thoughtful Analysis”. I couldn’t agree more with his thoughts.

About two months ago, I had the privilege of having lunch with an amazing woman named Pam Ousley. Pam shared with me how Jesus changed her life and delivered her out of a twenty-two year lifestyle of lesbianism. It was fascinating to hear her testimony and it was a great reminder of the power of God to set someone free with His truth.

Pam helped me understand the perspectives and presuppositions of those in the gay community. Her ministry, Bold Appeals, is bringing the love and truth to many who are confused or deceived about their sexuality.

The Gay perspective is that homosexuality is a moral, alternative sexual orientation. People who promote and approve of the homosexual lifestyle begin with this premise. Homosexuality, for them, is not wrong in any moral sense; it is just different.

Some presuppositions of the gay community are: (1) Being gay is not a choice. (2) Homosexuality is a matter of genetics—“It’s not what I do, it’s who I am.” (3) God makes a person homosexual; therefore, it is normal and natural, and simply an alternative sexual lifestyle. (4) Since it is a lifestyle that is not chosen, it is a lifestyle that should be protected. (5) Therefore, homosexuality is a civil rights issue.

The Christian perspective is homosexuality is an immoral sexual orientation prohibited by God.

Leviticus 18:22 says, “Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable.”

Leviticus 20:13 says, "And again, “If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They must be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads.”

Romans 1:26-27 says, “Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.”

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul writes in graphic, clear-cut form that homosexuality is actually an evidence that we have turned away from God to follow our own desires.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 says, “Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”

Christianity’s presuppositions are: (1) Being gay is a choice; therefore, it is not an identity. (2) This choice is abnormal, unnatural and it is a destructive lifestyle that brings pain, premature death and broken relationships. (3) Therefore, homosexuality is a moral issue instead of a civil issue.

Because these two sets of presuppositions are the antithesis of one another, there is tremendous tension and conflict over the issue of homosexuality.

Please stay tuned for part 2 of “Is Your Sexuality a Choice”?

Pro-Life or Pro-Choice?

During the June 5th, 2007 CNN debates, former Governor Mike Huckabee was asked, “What is the most pressing moral issue of our day?” He responded by saying, “If you define in a moral issue, it is our respect, our value and our understanding of the value of every single human life.” I concur.

In Deuteronomy 30:19 the Lord says, “This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.”

It’s shocking to think that in the 21st century we live in a nation that kills innocent babies. To put it in perspective, more babies have been murdered by abortion in America than soldiers killed in all the wars we have fought in. People in our country express outrage concerning the death of American soldiers, they express outrage over dog fighting, and people can go to jail for breaking an eagle’s egg. Where is the indignation over the murdering of human babies?

How can we allow this atrocity to continue in America? In this blog, I will focus on the deceptive thinking that leads to what I believe are the two main reasons we choose to abort babies instead of birth them.

First, we have bought into the lie that life does not begin until the baby is outside the womb. When, where and with whom does life begin? Jeremiah 1:4-5 says, “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.’” According to this passage of scripture, all life begins in the heart and mind of our Creator—God.

With the advancement of modern day technology, ultrasound machines produce sonogram images that show the reality of life in the womb. These machines have literally been a life saver. Ninety percent of ladies considering an abortion choose life after viewing their baby in their womb and hearing its little heart beat. They are also fascinated to see their babies moving in the womb as the respond to different stimuli.

Even in the scientific community, life has been defined as beginning at the moment of conception. Dr. Hymie Gordon, Chairman of the Department of Genetics at the Mayo Clinic, states, “By all the criteria of modern molecular biology, life is present from the moment of conception.”

A common response from people after touring the concentration camps of Nazi Germany where millions of Jews were brutally murdered is, “Why didn’t somebody do something?” One of the ways the Nazi’s justified their evil actions was by dehumanizing the Jewish people. They deluded the public conscience by disseminating propaganda that said people of Jewish descent were less than human.

Today, the same trend is happening in regard to the description of the embryo. Embryo, which literally means “that which grows” or “newly born” is no longer referred to as a human baby by abortionists. Like Nazi Germany, proponents of abortion dehumanize, and therefore promote abortion, by describing the embryo as a parasite.

Second, we have murdered innocent babies as a cover-up for our immorality, selfishness and lack of self-control. Motivated by convenience, abortion is the cruelest form of birth control. 95-98% of abortions are performed because we are a culture that wants our sexual rights without responsibility. When we act irresponsibly with our sexual behavior, it is blameless babies who suffer. Even if a woman was raped and became pregnant (which is rare and less than 1% of the cases), should the baby suffer for the father’s crime? Two wrongs do not make a right.

Margaret Sanger, founder of Planned Parenthood, is perhaps the best 20th century example of somebody influenced by the destructive power of spiritual deception. An admirer of Sanger wrote, “She had tried to dispel depression by sex, travel, Rosicrucianism (a cult), numerology – now she tried a new panacea, astrology,”

A confirmed adulteress who consistently and publicly supported “A woman’s right to destroy”, she become deeply involved with this man, Havelock Ellis. He was a modern-day false prophet who advocated a variety of bizarre sex practices supposing them to be keys to spiritual enlightment and power. For Margaret Sanger and her militantly, even religiously, promiscuous lifestyle, abortion became a necessary back-up for contraceptive failure.

It is my passion to witness the shedding of innocent blood stop in America. Proverbs 6:16 says, “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to Him.” The next verse (Proverbs 6:17) tells us that one of those things the Lord hates is the shedding of innocent blood. Nothing is more innocent than a baby in the womb of its mother.

Abraham Lincoln was president of our nation when America had a civil war over its number one moral issue of the day—slavery. He understood that God’s judgment would visit a nation that shed blood of innocent people. Lincoln’s second inaugural address, a month before his assassination in 1865, most clearly exhibits his belief in the justice of God.

“Fondly do we hope—fervently do we pray—that this mighty scourge of war might speedily pass away,” Lincoln said. “Yet if God wills that it continue, until all the wealth piled by the bond-man’s two hundred years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash, shall be paid with another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago so still it must be said, ‘the judgments of the Lord, are true and righteous altogether.’”

I am tired of our kids shooting one another in our schools. I am tired of our news channels reporting on brutal murders nightly. I am tired of the fear that resonates in so many American’s hearts over the threat of terrorism on our own soil.

Let’s learn from history and reverse the curse on a nation that results from the shedding of innocent blood. It is my prayer that no more blood in America would have to be shed because of abortion. It is my prayer that America would be a peaceful and prosperous nation again.

It is also my prayer that America’s massacre of innocence will not result in future generations asking the question, “Why didn’t somebody do something?”

If you or someone you know is considering an abortion, please contact the Pregnancy Help and Information Center (222-7177). They are wonderful people who will treat you like family and help you make the best decision of your life by choosing life. Also, please consider attending Every Nation Tallahassee. We would love to help you raise your child in God's will for their life. God bless.

Proud to be a Prude!

It is God’s will that you should be sanctified (free from sin): that you should avoid sexual immorality; (4) that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, (5) not in passionate lust like the heathen (person lacking moral principles), who do not know God. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5

As I watched the news channels last week report on the erratic behavior of Britney Spears, and the sudden and shocking death of Heath Ledger, I found myself pondering how people with everything externally can be so miserable internally. It also got me thinking about one of the books, which is titled “Prude”, I am currently reading to prepare for our “Choices” series. The book, by Carol Platt Liebau, documents how our nation has become a sex obsessed culture, and how this fixation is destroying girls (and America, too).

When you think of the word prude, do you attach a negative connotation to the term? Liebau writes, “Prude derives from the old French prude-femme, meaning ‘a good and virtuous woman,’ but perhaps it’s no surprise that its connotation is no longer positive. Today, as almost every girl knows, the term is often used to judge someone as sexually conservative and no fun.”

She also writes, “Like the concept of chastity itself, it seems that prude—derived from a term that used to denote honor and virtue—has almost become a badge of shame. Apparently, scarlet letters still exist in American life. But ironically, it’s now the chaste who must wear them.”

It’s unfortunate and destructive to our society when many girls would rather be labeled a slut than a prude.

Today, according to “Prude”, statistics disclose that 50% of teenage girls engage in sexual intercourse. As our teenagers use their liberty as a “right” for licentiousness, the consequences of their promiscuous lifestyle are resulting in unprepared pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, emotional instability, depression and every kind of imaginable social pathology.

Unfortunately, Britney Spears has become the paparazzi poster girl for many of these symptoms. She has salaciously flaunted her body while promulgating songs full of wanton lyrics. Now, she is in the hospital being treated for a mental illness.

I wonder if she has gained the world, but forfeited her soul (Matthew 16:26)?

Heath Ledger was a great looking guy and an actor with remarkable talent. Fame, fortune, and sex outside of the marriage covenant proved to be deadly bedfellows for this beloved celebrity.

I wonder how negatively he was impacted by the separation from his former cohabiting partner, and mother of their baby girl, Michelle Williams.

According to a January 24, 2008 article in “The Sydney Morning Herald”, the Perth model Sophie Ward, whose supermodel sister Gemma was romantically linked with Ledger during his trip home to spend Christmas with his family said, “He was anxious and distressed about his relationship breakdown and separation from Williams, but she did not believe claims he was battling drug problems.”

She believed his recent problems stemmed from those relationship issues. "He said he was going to London but was quite upset because he couldn't see his daughter as much as he'd like to," she said.

I wonder if the circumstances would be different for both Ledger and Williams if they cherished prudish attributes in their relationship.

Sarah E. Hinlicky, “Subversive Virginity”, states, “So-called sexual freedom is really just proclaiming oneself to be available for free, and therefore without value. To “choose” such freedom is tantamount to saying that one is worth nothing.”

By the recent heartbreaking and neurotic actions of Ledger and Spears, it would be prudent for girls (and America, too) to heed Hinlicky’s judiciousness.

I hate to witness people in pain. I pray for Britney to value herself and become a prude, and I pray for Ledger’s family and the relational future of every girl (and American, too).

Its God’s Principles—Stupid!

Please pardon my pun. I know stupid is not a nice word. Keep reading and I think you will understand my attempt to communicate truth with witticism.

After a couple weeks of Republican primaries, there is still no frontrunner for the nomination in their party. It has become obvious that the Republican Party is divided into three camps which include social conservatives, fiscal conservatives, and those who want a strong national defense (war and immigration). With America engaged in a war in the Middle East and its economy slipping into a possible recession because of the housing market, many talk show hosts are speculating over what issue is most important in this race.

Even the evangelical vote, which usually rallies around one candidate, is split between the social, war and fiscal issues. This dilemma has caused me to have a great concern about what evangelicals are being taught in church today. My goal in this blog is to remind evangelicals what should be the most important issue in this race.

What is the most important issue? Is it the war and immigration? Is it social values such as abortion and the sanctity of marriage? Or, according to Bill Clinton, is it the economy—stupid? As evangelicals, we should know the answer! For the sake of this blog, peace will represent the issue of war, prosperity will represent the issue of the economy, and principles will represent social values.

It is true that each one of these issues is important in America. However, if we had to pick the most important one, it should be easy for evangelicals. Evangelicals believe the Bible is the infallible word of God. Therefore, we believe the nations that obey the Lord will be blessed. Psalm 33:12 says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.”

A nation’s peace and prosperity is dependent upon its adherence to God’s principles.

Deuteronomy 28:7-10 says, “The Lord will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven. (8) The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving you. (9) The Lord will establish you as his holy people, as he promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the Lord your God and walk in his ways. (10) Then all the peoples on earth will see that you are called by the name of the Lord, and they will fear you. (11) The Lord will grant you abundant prosperity.”

So, it is clear in Scripture that the most important issue to God is our obedience to His principles. When nations disobey these principles, they bring on themselves the punishment of God. Throughout history, God’s chastisement for his wayward people has always been by sword (war), famine (suffering economy) and plague (chronic illness). Jeremiah 14:12 says, “Although they fast, I will not listen to their cry; though they offer burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. Instead, I will destroy them with sword, famine and plague.”

Unfortunately, America is a nation that has used its freedom to indulge in the sinful nature (Galatians 5:13). For example, abortion is legal while many of its citizens engage in sexually immoral behavior. Greed has caused many to live in debt, and divorce is destroying the divine institution of marriage. How can God be pleased with our nation’s demeanor? Is it a coincidence that we are now engaged in a war, entering a recession and desperately trying to medicate the multitudes in a strained health care system?

How can we expect God to bless us when we live in defiance to His principles? When we fail to trust in God, we have to put our confidence in man. No man or woman can deliver this country from all of its problems. Psalm 33:16, 18-19 says, “No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. (18) But the eyes of the Lord are on those who hope is in his unfailing love, (19) to deliver them from death and keep them alive in the famine.” Evangelicals should know this truth.

God has given Americans the blessing of liberty and the privilege to vote. With this privilege comes a great responsibility. As evangelical Americans we should never let current negative circumstances (war and economy) determine the priority of our votes. Our votes reflect our hearts, and our hearts should always reveal a desire to obey God. Until we get our principles in order, we will never enjoy the kind of peace and prosperity God desires for us as a nation.

No president can provide what only God can grant.

Psalm 33:10-11 says, “The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. (11) But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.”

I pray the evangelical vote for America’s next president will personify God’s heart for our nation.

Its God’s principles—evangelicals!

Pass Me the Kleenex Box!

As an old jock and a former strength coach, I never dreamed I would ever blog on crying. Wow, how life changes!

In the New Hampshire primary, Hilary Clinton came back from a double digit deficit in the polls to beat Barack Obama in one of the greatest upsets in primary election history. Many pundits attributed her victory to a moment when she showed her humanity and vulnerability by getting teary eyed at a luncheon the day before the ballots were cast.

I am not writing to comment on whether or not her tears were induced by personal pity because of her position in the polls, or by a sincere concern for the future of our country. I am writing this blog because I am disturbed at how people respond so negatively to crying. Talk show host after talk show host made fun of Hilary for crying. They seemed to correlate crying with weakness.

From the first day of parenthood, we become consumed with the thought—“stop crying”. I have three young boys who shed tears daily. My wife and I are constantly telling them to stop wailing. I wonder if this conditions us to view crying in a negative manner.

Why do we despise crying? The main reason we despise crying is because it makes us uncomfortable. We don’t like to see people, hurt, sad or frustrated, and rightfully so. However, just because crying makes us feel uncomfortable doesn’t mean we should view it with disdain.

I personally think more people in our society need to cry. In fact, a lack a crying can indicate that a person is shut down, closed off, hard-hearted, and has let their love grow cold. Crying shows that we are human, and it displays that we care. It can be very therapeutic and deeply healing to our soul. Crying can also demonstrate that we are people with passion.

Jesus was the strongest and most secure person to ever walk on planet earth. He had a profound love for people and a burning zeal to accomplish His Father’s will. Jesus was a man who revealed his heart to people through tears.

Luke 19:41 says, “As he (Jesus) approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it.” Jesus knew that Jerusalem would eventually be destroyed by their enemies because they did not recognize the time of God’s visitation. He responded to this predicament with lament.

He also sympathetically wept with Martha and Mary over the death of their brother Lazarus. John 11:33-35 says, “When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. (34) “Where have you laid him?” “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. (35) Jesus wept.”

My most memorable moments in life are stained with the salt of my tears.

I cried when I received Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I cried as I danced with my wife on my wedding day. I cried during the birth of each one of my three boys. I cried facilitating the weddings of my close friends. I cried conducting the funerals for parents who lost their babies. I cried when my boys scored a touchdown in football, hit a homerun in baseball, kicked a goal in soccer, and played a song on the piano at their recitals.

My tears represent my ardency, my convictions, my love, and my compassion.

As I approach forty, I find myself crying more than I have ever cried in my life. The tears I shed are not because I am sad, frustrated or hurt. No, I am not getting soft in my old age. My tears are a sign that I am alive.

I cried on my last date night with my wife at AMC theatres when Wiley College beat Harvard in the movie “The Great Debaters” (sorry if I ruined it for you). While watching the South Carolina Republican debates, I cried when former Governor Mike Huckabee perfectly answered a question on marriage in an age when this vital institution is under attack.

While ironing my shirt for Sunday service, I even cried watching a re-run of “Footloose” on television when Reverend Moore gave Ren and his senior class his blessing to conduct a high school dance. I cry when I think about the love of God and what it cost Jesus to save my life. I often cry during worship in church. I cry when I think about how much I love my family.

I’m full of life and full of tears, and I am not ashamed to say, “Pass me the Kleenex box please.”

New Year’s Resolution: God’s Will Be Done!

I propose a New Year’s resolution for every Christian—stop using phrases like “God’s will” and “the Lord told me” to get your will done.

Matthew 26:29 says, “Going a little farther, he (Jesus) fell with His face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

In this passage of scripture, Jesus is praying to His Father in heaven before he is betrayed, put through the mockery of a trial and crucified. I am so challenged in my own personal faith at how the Lord Jesus Christ stay submitted to God’s will for His life even to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). This type of attitude, obedience and submission is a missing ingredient in the lives of many Christians today. Frankly, in today’s individualist society I have noticed many people of faith think God exists to bless their plans and dreams. Similar to the lead character in Bruce Almighty, their prayer is now, “My will be done.” I wonder if we have forgotten that we are saved to serve Him and others.

Another way “Christians bug me” (refer to previous blog listed below) is when they use religious cant such as “God’s will” to get their will done. We should be very reverent when we definitively say something is God’s will, especially when it affects someone else’s life.

Ephesians 5:17 says, “Do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” I believe we should only say something is God’s will if we can find it in Scripture. For example, it is God’s will to pray continually, forgive, be joyful, give thanks in all circumstances, treat others the way you want to be treated, love your enemies, etc. God’s will is synonymous with God’s word.

When we fail to refer to Scripture in relation to communicating God’s will, we end up becoming fools. How many people have stated that God told them something and later were proven wrong? Trust me; I meet them way too often. God doesn’t lie or make mistakes. I will say it again. We should be very careful about how we use the name of God.

This blog was inspired by the recent events at North Florida Christian (NFC) School. I will comment on this situation for two reasons. First, many people have sought my counsel as a pastor to help them process this incident. Second, when somebody says it is God’s will to do something, I have a right and a responsibility to examine it as a Christ follower. Let me state clearly that my goal is to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), not attack anyone personally. So, here are my thoughts or “two cents worth”—Lord help me.

As a Christian, pastor, friend, and long time resident of Tallahassee, I grieve for all involved in this unfortunate scenario. As a long time resident of Tallahassee, I hurt for everyone in this city who has been negatively impacted by these events. As a Christian, I hurt because Christ was not glorified by the way things were handled. As a pastor, I hurt because many people are questioning the motives of a fellow pastor and brother in Christ in town. As a friend, I hurt for the Weldon family and how difficult it must be to process getting fired from a school they love and represent so well in our community.

Why was Casey Weldon fired? The only answer that has been given so far is that it was “God’s will”. Oh really? Are you sure it was not a conflict of personalities or a difference of opinions on how things should be done at NFC? Just like the rest of us, we know Casey isn’t perfect. Are you sure it wasn’t something he did or didn’t do as a coach? Did he violate an NFC policy? I don’t pretend to know all the details of this incident. In fact, I don’t really know anything. However, one thing I do know is what the Bible says is God’s will.

Apostle Paul wrote to the church of Ephesus instructing them concerning God’s will. He says in Ephesians 4:1-3, “As a prisoner of the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. (2) Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (3) Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

If this was God’s will, and therefore, the way he wanted to remove Casey from his position, after taking NFC to two consecutive state championship games, then why has there been so much division and strife over this decision? How can you fire a guy, who is the “poster child” of your school, and who has been so successful without ever reprimanded him, and then say it was “God’s will”? God’s will should manifest in humility, gentleness, patience, love, unity and peace, especially when it involves Christians in the same spiritual family.

I don’t know if Casey should or should not have been fired. However, I do know the greatest commandment requires us to exemplify God with honor and treat one another with love (Matthew 22:37-40). I have yet to talk with one person in Tallahassee who thinks God was honored and love was demonstrated at NFC. This saddens me deeply because I want to see my fellow believers in Jesus succeed and represent Him well. So, to say this decision was God’s will when it has caused such heartache, pain, division, and confusion in Tallahassee and the NFC community is irresponsible and is simply religious jargon that poorly reflects Christ and Scripture.

For the sake of God’s glory, the reputation of those who minister the gospel and every Christian’s testimony, please give us the real reason Casey was fired. It will be the only answer that will make sense to people who are already cynical towards Christianity and bring closure to this awkward occurrence.

I pray for God’s will to be done. Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

Oregon State offensive coordinator Danny Langsdorf has donated a kidney to the wife of Mike Cavanaugh, the offensive line coach. Laurie Cavanaugh has autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, which enlarged her kidneys.

Langsdorf was identified as a match through tests with 18 individuals. She said the process of finding a donor took about a year and a half. Laurie Cavanaugh said, "I remember being in San Antonio at a football convention in San Antonio and he [Langsdorf] came up to me and said, 'Hey, I'm a go,'" "I was like 'Wow!' After about 18 people, I was shocked and excited. At that point I was getting kind of hopeless, I didn't think I was going to get any one," she said.

Langsdorf said: "I didn't think it was right to sit back and not do anything, when I probably could have. So I decided to get tested. The fact that I was such a good match for her was such a positive thing."

Dr. John Barry, director of OHSU's kidney transplant program, performed the six-hour transplant surgery on Laurie Cavanaugh. Dr. Michael Conlin, associate professor of urologic surgery at OHSU School of Medicine, removed Langsdorf's kidney.

"When you work as closely as a coaching staff does, you develop some really deep and solid friendships -- I guess you could say this is the ultimate in friendship," said Mike Cavanaugh, who, like Langsdorf, is in his third season with the Beavers.

Laurie Cavanaugh fought back tears when expressing her gratitude to Langsdorf, who said he was a merely a friend who wanted to help.

"It reminds you that when you're feeling OK and things are going pretty good in your life, you shouldn't have many complaints," Langsdorf said. "That's probably the biggest thing for me -- to give something to a friend and have it work out."

Stories such as this one remind us that great gifts have three distinctive attributes that make them extraordinary. First, they are worth something. Second, the gift is invested for a specific purpose. And third, there is a particular need for the gift. Worth, investment, and need are the keys to giving good gifts.

What is the greatest gift ever given to mankind?

The gift of Jesus Christ is worth more to mankind than anything else on the planet. Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

His investment into our lives changes us to be more like Him. His gift to us met a need that we could have never met on our own. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9not by works, so that no one can boast.”

As you open gifts with loved ones on Christmas, remember the One who gave His Son to make this holiday the most wonderful time of the year.

May God bless you with a very Merry Christmas!

Are All Religions the Same?

In Matthew 7:21-23 Jesus says, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. (22) Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ (23) Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’"

Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon apostle, in Mormon Doctrine said, “Mormonism is Christianity; Christianity is Mormonism….Mormons are true Christians.” If Mormonism is the same as Christianity, then why do the nicely dressed guys on the bikes who knock on my door always try to convert me to Mormonism after I tell them I am a pastor of a Christian church?

During the campaigns many people, such as Sean Hannity, have echoed the doctrine of McConkie stating that Mormons are Christians. There is no doubt that Mormons perform many good works and their good works resemble those of Christianity’s. This can deceive people to think that the two religions are the same.

Mormons use good works and the name of Jesus and the Bible to lead people to their religion. Then, they teach them another doctrine based upon the Book of Mormon that contradicts the fundamental teachings of the Bible. I am not being mean or judgmental about the Mormon faith. They have the right and freedom to believe what they want. I just wish they would clearly and honestly communicate their differences. My motive is not to disparage the Mormon faith; instead, it is an attempt to simply educate you on the dissimilarities of the Mormon and Christian faith.

Mormons may use the same terminology as Christians, but when you look at what Mormons really believe, the differences become apparent. In virtually every area of belief, the Mormon Church is unorthodox, which means it doesn’t follow traditional Christian beliefs. The discrepancies, according to World Religions and Cults 101 by Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz, are listed below.

The Nature of God

Mormons believe God the Father is an exalted man from another planet, He came from another species of gods, who existed before him in an infinite series of gods who were also men, God is ever evolving, God has a physical body, God the Father had physical relations with the Mother God, resulting in millions of spirit babies, and matter is eternal, but God in not.

Christians believe God is God, not an exalted man, there is only one God, God is a spirit, God is eternal, God does not change, and there has never been a time when God was not completely God.

The Person of Jesus

Mormons believe he was a created being and the brother of Lucifer (Satan), He was born as a result of Mary having physical relations with God, Jesus had to earn his own salvation, just like the rest of the created beings, Jesus is a “greater” being than other spirit children on the earth, but he has the same nature, Jesus was a polygamist, the atonement of Jesus took place in the Garden of Gethsemane and was for Adam’s sin only, our salvation begins with the atonement but is made complete by good works.

Christians believe Jesus is fully God and one with God the Father, Jesus was born of virgin through the Holy Spirit, Jesus did not need to be saved because He is God, there is no evidence that Jesus ever married once, let alone several times, the atonement of Jesus took place on the cross, and it was effective for all humankind, and there is no other way to be saved except by faith in Jesus Christ.

The Authority of Scripture

The Book of Mormon

• Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from the writings of ancient prophets engraved on gold plates he found buried near his home.
• The translation involved a “seer stone,” which Smith claimed gave him the power of God.
• The Book of Mormon contains thousands of words—including entire chapters—from the King James Version of the Bible.
• There is no decisive archaeological evidence for any of the ancient civilizations described by the Book of Mormon.
• Despite Mormon claims, the Book of Mormon is not prophesied in the Bible.

The Bible

• God used the Holy Spirit to inspire (literally, “breathe into”) 40 different human writers (called prophets) over a period of 1600 years.
• Several different individual church councils discovered which writings were Scripture by recognizing the writings that spoke with the authority of God.
• The Bible has been carefully transmitted and translated from the original manuscripts and languages to the current day.
• Archaeologists have uncovered more copies of ancient Bible manuscripts than any other document of antiquity.
• There is abundant corroborating evidence to confirm the claims of the Bible. Not every person, place, date, or fact in the Bible has been verified by outside sources, but many have, and not one has been shown to be false.

God was so wise to not let anyone be declared righteous in his sight by their good works (Isaiah 64:6). He knew that one of the easiest ways to deceive and confuse people was through a system of good deeds. Unfortunately, religion often becomes a system of good works and rituals made up by people to deify themselves. For example, Mormons believe that they are gods who will one day populate their own planet. Jesus taught that eternal life was to know God and His Son Jesus Christ, not the practicing of our religious traditions (John 17:3).

Christianity or Mormonism—big difference!

Relationship or Religion?

In John 17:3 Jesus prayed, "Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.

In today’s culture, we refer to people of faith as religious people. Religion means a particular system of faith and worship or a thing that one is devoted to. Religion is simply the external expression of what we believe internally. Religion can be an accurate or inaccurate display of faith. Despite the tendency for modern day Christians to be judgmental and hypocritical (for this I deeply apologize), there is no doubt that throughout history Christianity has been a “religion” identified by its good deeds.

Christian religion should be easy to discern by others who observe the lifestyles of those who profess the name of Jesus. St. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the gospel at all times, and if necessary use words.” His statement was an admonition to all Christians that they should walk the talk. I concur. However, I have been recently wondering if he would have made the same assertion in today’s polytheistic culture?

For example, Mormonism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, and Islam all teach that good works are an important part of their religion. I believe this is the major reason some people think that all religions are basically the same. At times, through good deeds, the external expression of these different religions can look very similar.

I was reminded of this fact while listening to Mitt Romney’s speech on “Faith in America”. In case you do not know, Romney is a Mormon. The fact that we have a Mormon running for president has raised many questions from the media about Romney’s faith.

If you are wondering, let me state clearly that I do not think a person should be elected or rejected based upon their faith. The first amendment of the Constitution of the United States gives us the right to the freedom of religious expression. This also means the freedom to not believe in God. You might be thinking that my viewpoint contradicts my previous blog “Christians Bug Me”, but remember in that blog I was talking about endorsing (as an influential Christian leader) a president, not electing one.

For those who are not frequent readers of the Bible, you might find it interesting to note that Jesus never once mentioned the word religion. Does this surprise you? This is because Jesus’ goal was never to set up a system of good works or a system of religion. Jesus came to bring people into relationship with Him as the one true living God. Christianity is not a religion of good works; instead, it is a relationship with Jesus Christ. A Christian’s religious expression should flow from this relationship.

Apostle Paul reminds the church at Ephesus that good works can not gain us favor with God or save us. In Ephesians 2:10-11 he says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith (in Christ)—and this not from yourselves, it is a gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. (10) For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” What makes Christian’s good deeds unique is that they give praise to our Father in heaven and lead people to faith in Jesus (Matthew 5:16).

Relationship or religion? Big difference!

Stay tuned for Part 2…you won’t want to miss it!

Drop and Give Me Twenty!

Finally, be strong in the Lord and His mighty power. Ephesians 6:10

I believe, for the most part, that the universal body of Christ in America is weak. Although we might have a majority who believe in Jesus in this country, we have done a poor job bringing transformation to our nation. America lacks strong Godly leaders in government, the marketplace, education, the arts, entertainment, athletics and many other spheres of our society.

This is evident in our current presidential debates. For example, foundational to the success of any society is the institution of the family. Today, there is a good possibility a candidate that is pro-choice and supports gay marriages will be elected. By the way, I don’t hate pro-choice or gay people, I just disagree with them for reasons I will state in the next few paragraphs.

Why is abortion and homosexuality so devastating to the future of America? Because when we fail to procreate and when will kill babies that have been conceived, we devalue one of our most important inalienable rights—the right to life. We will cease to exist if we do not procreate. Remember, it takes a man and a woman to produce a baby.

The family, where husband and wife fulfill their duties as an affectionate father and mother, are statistically the best remedy for the social ills we face in America today. The majority of children that commit crimes or engage in delinquent behavior come from homes that do not consist of a loving father and mother.

So, why is the universal body of Christ weak in America? It is weak because we have lost our value of sacrifice. I ultimately blame this condition on weak preaching in the church. The kind of preaching that has been advocated by those who viewed the seeker movement as the cutting edge of kingdom advancement—Scripture-anemic, superficially practical, humanistic, therapeutic, man-centered, God-at-your-service, consumer-driven fireside chats has produced self-centered church attendees.

Jesus’ ministry was a message of sacrifice and commitment. He gave three requirements to those who desired to be His disciple. First and foremost, He taught that a disciple of Jesus must deny self. Second, a disciple of Jesus must take up their cross. Third, a disciple of Jesus must follow Him and live to fulfill the Great Commission. Sacrifice is the key to all three of these characteristics of a disciple of Jesus.

As the church begins to serve people with sacrificial acts of love, it will once again be strong and regain its place of influence in our society.

Now, drop and give me twenty!!!

Christians Bug Me

Now that I have your attention let me clearly state that I am a Christian. As a Christian, I am convinced that I also bug people. When I bug people, I hope that it is mainly for reasons like speaking the truth in love.

What bothers me, and many other people, is when Christians act inconsistent. As human beings, we all have a degree of hypocrisy in our lives, and I am desperately working to remove anything in my life that does not reflect Jesus to the world. The reality that all of us have a long way to go to be like Jesus should keep us humble and deeply appreciative of the grace God has extended to us. Since we need mercy as we strive to be like Jesus, we should be merciful to those who bug us. So I am bugged, but merciful.

Now, let me tell you why I am “bugged”. I am bothered by influential religious leaders and their early endorsements of certain presidential candidates. As religious leaders, I believe there are three criterions they should use when endorsing a candidate.

First, the candidate should be qualified to lead our country. Second, the candidate should have a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the three divine institutions on earth: family, church and government. He or she should also understand how these three institutions should work together in their distinct functions to create a better nation. And thirdly, the candidate should be a person who desires to please God and help people in their position of service. According to the Bible, candidates whose religious doctrine teaches that they are a god, and candidates who support abortion are not pleasing to God.

So, why would influential Christian leaders give these candidates early endorsements?

Let me also state clearly that my loyalty is to the will of God and not a political party. So, in every presidential election, I try my best to objectively evaluate each candidate based upon the three factors I mentioned above.

With the exception of John McCain and Hilary Clinton, I was not familiar with the candidates in both the Democrat and Republican debates. My unfamiliarity and ignorance assisted me in being objective as I listened to each candidate.

Using my three standards as a frame of reference for endorsement, it did not take long into the second Republican debate for me to realize that one candidate stood head and shoulders above the rest. The reason I am “bugged” is because I feel the other religious leaders should have noticed this also.

Since they did not notice, it has caused me to question their motives for endorsing the candidates they chose. I hope they did not endorse certain candidates because they are fearful that Senator Clinton will win. Christians should be led by faith and not by fear.

I also hope their endorsement was not a political move to align themselves with the person they thought had the greatest chance to win. I am reminded of the fact that when choosing a leader, God looks at the heart as much as anything else. The shepherd boy David was the least likely to be chosen as a king by the people, but God had a different plan because of his heart. He was uniquely prepared by God to slay the giant of his generation (1 Samuel 16-17). More than ever, America needs a leader like David who is called and gifted by God to lead us in this time of uncertainty and division.

Anyhow, I want you to know that I am getting over my state of being “bugged”. Over the last couple weeks, I have been encouraged as the candidate, who in my opinion, stands head and shoulders above the rest based upon qualifications, worldview and Godly motives is gaining ground in the polls.

Because I know I am susceptible to deception, I fervently pray for God’s wisdom as I choose a candidate, and I pray for God’s will to be done as a new president will be elected to lead our country in 2008. More than anything else, I just want the best person possible in the oval office. To me, based upon my criterions and the candidates, the choice is obvious.

I am sure my thoughts have bugged someone. I’d love to hear about it.

May God’s will be done (Matthew 6:10)!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

An atheist was walking through the woods, admiring all the "accidents" that evolution had created. "What majestic trees! What powerful rivers! What beautiful animals!" he said to himself.

As he was walking alongside the river, he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him. Turning to look, he saw a 7-foot grizzly bear charge towards him. He ran away as fast as he could up the path.

He looked over his shoulder and saw the grizzly was closing. Somehow he ran even faster, so scared that tears came to his eyes. He looked again, and the bear was even closer. His heart was pounding, and he tried to run faster. He tripped and fell to the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up, but the bear was right over him, reaching for him with its left paw and raising its right paw to strike him.

At that instant the atheist cried, "Oh my God!"

Time stopped. The bear froze. The forest was silent. Even the river stopped moving.

As a bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out of the sky, "You deny my existence for all these years, teach others that I don't exist, and even credit creation to a cosmic accident. Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer?"

The unthankful atheist looked directly into the light and said, "I would feel like a hypocrite to become a Christian after all these years, but perhaps you could make the bear a Christian?"

"Very well," said the voice.

The light went out. The river ran. The sounds of the forest resumed. Then the bear dropped his right paw, brought both paws together, bowed its head, and spoke: "Lord, for this food which I am about to receive, I am truly thankful." David Holdaway

I want to encourage everyone to take some extra time this week and thank God for all the wonderful things He has done for us. I also want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and a blessed holiday week. Don't eat too much and drive safe as you travel to visit family.

This Sunday at Every Nation Tallahassee we will be speaking on what it means to "Know Thanks". I hope to see you there. God bless.

Returning to the Lord

“Ever since the time of your forefathers you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you," says the Lord Almighty. "But you ask, 'How are we to return?' (8) Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How do we rob you?” “In tithes and offerings. Malachi 3:7-8

About two years after I repented for my sins and received Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I went through a rough time in my walk with the Lord. It was during this time that I began to back slide in my faith. As a discouraged Christian, one of the first things I stopped doing was going to church. Because I was no longer going to church, I stopped paying my tithes. I would remain discouraged in my faith and disobedient to my Lord for about a year.

Through sovereign circumstances and conversations with friends who remained Christ followers, I once again began to seek the Lord. Desperate to get back in good standing with my God, I submitted my heart and my will to Christ’s Lordship.

I remember calling my pastor and asking him to meet me at work. We talked about my struggles over the last year, and what it was going to take for me to stand strong in my faith. I was so disappointed in myself that I had betrayed the God who died for me on the cross. I made a commitment to never waste another year of my life by not serving Jesus.

After our conversation, I repented for my sins and prayed with my pastor. As he was leaving my office to return home, I asked him to follow me to my car. While walking to my car, I began to count in my head how much I owed God in tithes over the last year. At the car, I grabbed a pen out of my glove box and wrote down my gross monthly salary on a piece of paper. Then, I multiplied my monthly gross salary by twelve, and wrote a check to my church.

Why did I write this check? It was very important to me to prove my repentance was genuine. I could think of no better way to do this than write a tithe check. As I wrote the check, I remembered the words of Jesus, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Tithing puts God first in our life with our money.

After handing the check to my pastor, for the first time in a year, I felt the joy of the Lord enter my heart. It was such a wonderful feeling to know that I was no longer robbing God with my tithes and offerings. There was such peace in my soul because I knew the curse of disobedience and robbing God was no longer going to manifest in my life. Since that moment, I have been living a life of obedience to my Lord, and experiencing His blessing and favor on my life.

Does Money Solve Problems?

Have you ever thought, “If I had more money, all my problems would go away?” According to an article "8 lottery winners who lost their millions" by Ellen Goodstein, Bankrate.com, there are many lottery winners who are proof that this type of thinking can be very deceptive.

(1)"Winning the lottery isn't always what it's cracked up to be," says Evelyn Adams, who won the New Jersey lottery not just once, but twice (1985, 1986), to the tune of $5.4 million. Today the money is all gone and Adams lives in a trailer.
(2)William "Bud" Post won $16.2 million in the Pennsylvania lottery in 1988 but now lives on his Social Security. "I wish it never happened. It was totally a nightmare," says Post.
(3)Suzanne Mullins won $4.2 million in the Virginia lottery in 1993. Now she's deeply in debt to a company that lent her money using the winnings as collateral.
(4)Ken Proxmire was a machinist when he won $1 million in the Michigan lottery. He moved to California and went into the car business with his brothers. Within five years, he had filed for bankruptcy.
(5)Willie Hurt of Lansing, Mich., won $3.1 million in 1989. Two years later he was broke and charged with murder. His lawyer says Hurt spent his fortune on a divorce and crack cocaine.
(6)Charles Riddle of Belleville, Mich., won $1 million in 1975. Afterward, he got divorced, faced several lawsuits and was indicted for selling cocaine.
(7)Missourian Janite Lee won $18 million in 1993. Lee was generous to a variety of causes, giving to politics, education and the community. But according to published reports, eight years after winning, Lee had filed for bankruptcy with only $700 left in two bank accounts and no cash on hand.

Susan Bradley, a certified financial planner in Palm Beach, Fla., and founder of the Sudden Money Institute, a resource center for new money recipients and their advisors says, "In our culture, there is a widely held belief that money solves problems. People think if they had more money, their troubles would be over. When a family receives sudden money, they frequently learn that money can cause as many problems as it solves."

As the wealthiest man of earth, King Solomon learned that affluence didn’t satisfy. All it did was give him greater opportunity to chase more mirages. People tend to run out of money before mirages, so they cling to the myth that things they can’t afford will satisfy them. Solomon’s money never ran out. He tried everything, saying, “I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure.” (Ecclesiastes 2:10)

What can we learn from a person who once had everything his heart desired?

In Ecclesiastes 2:11 Solomon answers this question by writing, “When I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.”

Money Leads - Hearts Follow (Part 2)

By telling us that our hearts follow our treasure, Jesus is saying, “Show me your checkbook, your VISA and American Express statements, and your receipts, and I’ll show you where your heart is.”

The Gospel of Mark tells a story of the widow’s offering. In the story, Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Why did he do this? Why was Jesus’ watchful eye on the people’s giving habits? Because Jesus knew that money, more than anything else reveals our hearts’ motives and affections.

Jesus commended the widow’s offering over the large amounts of the rich people because she put in everything—all she had to live on. The rich just gave out of their wealth. In other words, their hearts were not wholly devoted to eternal treasures. Their motives might have been a selfish attempt to feel good about their life, or a vain attempt to buy favor with God. Whatever the case, Jesus was not impressed or pleased (Mark 12:41-44).

God wants your heart. He isn’t looking just for “donors” for His kingdom, those who stand outside the cause and dispassionately consider acts of philanthropy. He’s looking for disciples immersed in the causes they give to. He wants people so filled with a vision for eternity that they wouldn’t dream of not investing their money, time, and prayers where they will matter most.

Of course, giving isn’t the only good thing we can do with money. We need to feed, clothe, house, and transport our families. But when the basics are taken care of, why shouldn’t the rest go toward treasures in heaven?

Moses left Egypt’s treasures “because he was looking ahead to his reward” (Hebrews 11:26). The person who lays up treasures on earth spends his life backing away from his treasures. To that person, death is loss. The person who lays up treasures in heaven looks forward to eternity; that person is moving daily toward their treasures. To that person, death is gain. The one who spends their life moving away from their treasures has reason to despair. The one who spends their life moving toward their treasures has reason to rejoice.

Are you despairing or rejoicing?

Money Leads - Hearts Follow

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21

Our hearts always go where we put God's money. As surely as the compass needle follows north, your heart will follow your treasure. Money leads; hearts follow.

When a rich young man pressed Jesus about how to gain eternal life, Jesus told him, “Sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me” (Matthew 19:21). The man was obsessed with earthly treasures. Jesus called him to something higher—heavenly treasures.

Jesus knew that money and possessions were the best indicators of our heart’s affections. He also knew that money can have a god-like power over people. He realized that the rich young man wouldn’t serve God unless he dethroned his money idol. But the seeker considered the price too great. Sadly, he walked away from real treasures.

We are supposed to have our eyes, hearts and minds on eternity. Apostle Paul reminds the church at Colosse the rules for holy living. He said in Colossians 3:1-3, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. (2) Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. (3) For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.”

Do you wish you cared more about eternal things? Then reallocate some of your money, maybe most of your money, for temporal things to eternal things. Watch what happens.

Treasures in Heaven

Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. Matthew 6:20a

In Cairo there is a grave and an exhibit that represent two opposing worldviews concerning true treasure. In a grave lies William Borden, a Yale graduate and heir to great wealth, who lived from 1887 until 1913. Borden rejected a life of ease in order to bring the gospel to Muslims. Refusing even to buy himself a car, he gave away hundreds of thousands of dollars to missions.

After only four months of zealous ministry in Egypt, he contracted spinal meningitis and died at the age of twenty-five. In the epitaph on Borden’s grave is a description of his love and sacrifices for the kingdom of God and for Muslim people. The inscription ends with the phrase, “Apart from faith in Christ, there is no explanation for this life.”

The Egyptian National Museum contains the mind-boggling exhibit of King Tut. Tutankhamen, the boy king, was only seventeen when he died. He was buried with solid gold chariots and thousands of golden artifacts. His gold coffin was found within gold tombs within gold tombs within gold tombs. The burial site was filled with tons of gold.

The Egyptians believed in an afterlife—one where they could take earthly treasures. But all the treasures intended for King Tut’s eternal enjoyment stayed right where they were until Howard Carter discovered the burial chambers in 1922. They hadn’t been touched for more than three thousand years.

Borden’s grave is obscure, dusty, and hidden off the back alley of a street littered with garbage. Tutankhamen’s tomb glittered with unimaginable wealth. Yet where are these two young men now? One, who lived in opulence and called himself king, is in the misery of a Christless eternity. The other, who lived a modest life on earth in service of the one true King, is enjoying his everlasting reward in the presence of the King of kings the Lord Jesus Christ.

Tut’s life was tragic because of an awful truth discovered too late—he couldn’t take his treasures with him. William Borden’s life was triumphant. Why? Because instead of leaving behind his treasures, he sent them on ahead. (Randy Alcorn, The Treasure Principle)

Why is America So Sad?

(10) For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:10

In this passage of Scripture, Apostle Paul is instructing Timothy to teach people about the dangers of loving money more than God. In Matthew 6:24 Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”

Jesus warns people that money has a god-like power to master them. When people make money their god, it ends up becoming a curse instead of a blessing. Remember, there is nothing evil about money. In fact, God wants His people to prosper financially so they can be a blessing to others. It is the love of money that becomes a root in people’s hearts leading to all kinds of evil and many griefs.

If money is supposed to make us secure and happy, why are we so sad as a nation?

According to a recent study by the World Health Organization and Harvard Medical School, America may very well be the saddest nation in the world. Researchers found that 9.6 percent of Americans suffer from depression or bipolar disorder—the highest among 14 major nations polled. Those nations that scored better than the U.S. suffer from ongoing wars and rumors of war (Lebanon), vast unemployment (Mexico), and profound poverty (Nigeria).

In his Wall Street Journal article, "The Great Depression," Bret Stephens argues that perhaps America scores poorly as a nation because its population is generally comfortable and wealthy. Such luxuries allow that much more time for critically picking apart life situations and personal circumstances. Those who live in countries torn apart by varying social and economic issues have less time to fret over personal gain and ambition. They are simply too busy trying to survive.

So what could turn our sad nation around? The research shows that the citizens of the world's happier nations find a steady source of joy in their families, their religion, and their traditions.

I want to invite you to Every Nation Tallahassee this Sunday, October 14th, at 9am or 11am for the first sermon in our four week "Money Talks" series. Come discover what God says about money and what money says about us. Since money is something we all have to steward, and since money has a god-like power to control us, it is vital that we properly understand how to handle it.

Money Talks…what does it say about you? Hope to see you at ENT.

Dog Fighting the Truth (Part 2)

In Matthew 5:13, Jesus said, “You (referring to Christ-followers) are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.”

According to this passage of scripture, there are two important facts to remember if salt is going to be effective as a preservative. First, the salt has to be potent in order to be effective. This means that Christ followers should be full of God’s word, and must be willing to share it with others. Second, in order for salt to be effective, it has to have close proximity. In other words, it must be touching the substance it is preserving to make its impact. Christ followers should be close to those who need to hear God’s word and His truth.

When Christ followers fail to be “salt” in our society, truth is lost and morality is ambiguous. The outrage concerning Michael Vick and his dog fighting practices is a recent example of this fact.

Don’t get me wrong, dog fighting is a heinous form of entertainment. For this crime, Vick has been sentenced to federal prison. However, do you know that in America today, Vick could get one hundred girls pregnant, counsel them to get abortions, and still be the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.

I wonder how many abortions have been performed due to the sexual habits of many people in our society. Where is the outrage for all these murders? Are dogs more valuable and important than human babies? If Michael Vick should go to prison for killing dogs, shouldn’t people go to prison for killing babies? Proverbs 6:16 says, “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to Him.” One of the things it mentions that the Lord hates is the shedding of innocent blood (Proverbs 6:17b). Nothing is more innocent than the blood of a baby.

In the days of Isaiah the prophet, the people of his time had also lost their sense of truth and righteousness. Isaiah 59:14- says, “Justice is driven back, and righteousness stands at a distance; truth has stumbled in the streets, honesty cannot enter. (15) Truth is nowhere to be found, and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey.”

The people had stopped following God’s way and began to do what was right in their own eyes. Read how God responded to this dilemma. Isaiah 59: 15b-16 says, “The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice. (16) He saw that there was no one, He was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so His arm worked salvation for Him.” Wow! There was no one to be “salt” and speak truth during this time in history. Therefore, God had to eventually send His Son Jesus in person to remind us of His truth and die for our sins.

Unlike the days of Isaiah, I pray God would find Christ followers being “salt” in our society today by living and speaking his truth. If Christ followers will do their part, truth will be rediscovered in America and something way more precious than dogs will be saved from death.

Dog Fighting the Truth

My seven year old son Josiah loves dog fights. He is an expert on their fighting tactics and very knowledgeable about the participants in battle.

During a fishing trip over the summer, Josiah asked a good friend of mine if he liked dog fighting. My friend answered him with a resounding “no”. My son, confused and saddened by his answer, said, “Dog fighting is so cool, I can’t believe you don’t like it.” All of a sudden my friend began to wonder what kind a child I was raising.

After about five minutes of dialogue, my friend finally realized that my son was talking about the show “Dog Fights”. It recreates historic jet fighter air battles from previous wars. It really is a cool show if you have never seen it on television.

As my friend was telling me the story about his conversation with my son, we both were laughing at his misunderstanding about the type of dog fighting Josiah was chatting about. After talking with him, I started thinking about how we determine truth, justice and righteousness in America today. Just like my friend during his discourse with my son, our nation is confused and, therefore, hypocritical in regards to our ethics.

In Matthew 5:13, Jesus said, “You (referring to Christ-followers) are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.”

What did Jesus mean by referring to Christ-followers as salt? Throughout history, salt has been used as a preservative. Jesus was reminding His people that they are to preserve truth and morality in our society.

Stay tuned for part 2 on "Dog Fighting the Truth".

Possession Obsession (Part 2)

Jesus taught that people should not store up treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. Instead, he instructed them to store up treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:19-20). The surest way to store up treasures in heaven is to give to God’s mission here on earth. That is why it is so important to be connected to a strong local church committed to fulfilling the Great Commission of Jesus to make disciples of all nations.

It is very sad to observe so many Americans who store up treasures on earth that will one day rot or be burned in the eternal fire of judgment. Remember, we can take nothing and I mean nothing with us. After losing children, servants and personal possessions during enemy raids and violent storms, the righteous man Job said in Job 1:21, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart.” Job knew he could take nothing with him to the grave.

Selfishness and greed cause us to store up treasures on earth and not in heaven. When we live like this, our wealth brings more trouble than blessing to our lives. Recently, more Americans declared bankruptcy than graduated from college. In 90 percent of divorce cases, arguments about money play a prominent role. (Randy Alcorn, The Treasure Principle)

“Proverbs 10:22 says, “The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it.” Michael Vick is our most recent example of a wealthy man who has fallen into trouble because his financial priorities were out of order. According to Fox Sports writer Jeff Gordon, Vick may have flushed $100 million down the drain by a backing dog-fighting operation. His 10 year, $130 million contract will evaporate, and Falcons owner Arthur Blank could demand repayment of a least some of Vick’s $22 million signing bonus. Rather than earn $20 million a year in salary and endorsement fees for the next several years. Vick will spend millions to clean up his various legal and public relations crises.

Let’s continue to pray for people like Michael, and remember from Javos and Job that we should live our lives on earth storing up treasures in heaven. We can’t take it with us, but we can send it on ahead to heaven.

“I have made many millions, but they have brought me no happiness.” John D. Rockefellar

Possession Obsession

Six years ago, while working as the Associate Director of Premier Health and Fitness Center, I had a very sobering experience that changed my life forever. A good friend of mine named Javos was getting ready to teach our after work step aerobics class. Javos, a devout Christian, was one of the first people I hired to help oversee our fitness program. Javos, who at 42 looked like he was in his mid- twenties, was probably the best conditioned individual in the whole facility. Due to the convenient time and popularity of Javos as an instructor, it was one of the highest attended classes we offered at the fitness center. Five minutes before the class, Javos and I were in the break room talking about how wonderful it will be when we see Jesus face to face in heaven.

About fifteen minutes into teaching the class, Javos fell violently to the floor landing face first on the ground. Immediately, doctors and nurses who were working out in the gym began to administer CPR to Javos. In a state of panic, several people from the aerobic class came rushing into my office to inform me about their fallen instructor. As I walked into the aerobics room, the paramedics had arrived and were trying to revive Javos. In just a few minutes, I went from doing office work to riding in the front seat of the ambulance on the way to the hospital.

The wait at the hospital seemed like an eternity as we grew impatient hoping to hear some news about our friend. About an hour later, a doctor came into our room with a distraught and confused look on his face. He told us that they had spent forty-five minutes trying to resuscitate Javos, and could not get his heart to beat again. Our paragon of fitness and virtue was dead.

I had the responsibility of calling his mother and other family members to tell them the news. Javos had no relatives that lived in Tallahassee. Therefore, I also had to go to the employee parking lot and clean out all of Javos’ belongings from his car. As I was collecting his cross that hung from this rear view mirror, the reality that we can take nothing with us when we die struck my mind like lightning.

1 Timothy 6:7 says, “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. “ I sat in his car and stared at a possession that was very personal to Javos and no longer with him. He left everything he owned behind. Even the most recognized symbol of Christianity, a cross, did not go into eternity with Javos.

Stay tuned for part 2 of Possession Obsession.

Addiction Affliction (Part 2)

New research is revealing why Americans become addicted. In Time Magazine, Michael D. Lemonick reports, “Armed with an array of increasing sophisticated technology, including fMRIS and Pet Scans, investigators have begun to figure out exactly what goes wrong in the brain of an addict—which neurotransmitting chemicals are out of balance and what regions of the brain are affected. They are developing a more detailed understanding of how deeply and completely addiction can affect the brain, by hijacking memory-making processes and by exploiting emotions. Using that knowledge, they’ve begun to design new drugs that are showing promise in cutting off the craving that drives an addict irresistibly toward relapse—the greatest risk facing even the most dedicated abstainer.”

Well, we can try drugs to cure us of our addictions, or we can try God’s remedy. Obviously, our thought life determines our behavior. Jesus taught that our bad behavior comes from the sin that is in our hearts. In Matthew 15:19 He says, “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.”

I submit to you, my faithful readers, that there is a better way to renew our mind. And that better way is feeding on God’s words contained in the Bible. Addiction results from our desire to seek and feel joy or pleasure. Jeremiah, one of God’s prophets, knew the secret to true joy and delight. In Jeremiah 15:16 he says, “When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear you name, O Lord God Almighty.”

The article also reports on one important discovery. Evidence is building to support the 90-day rehabilitation model, which was stumbled upon by AA (new members are advised to attend a meeting a day for the first 90 days) and is the duration of a typical stint in a drug treatment program. It turns out that this is just about how long it takes for the brain to reset itself and shake off the immediate influence of a drug. Researchers at Yale University have documented what they call the sleeper effect—a gradual re-engaging of proper decision making and analytical functions in the brain’s prefrontal cortex—after an addict has abstained for at least 90 days.

If you are struggling with addictive behaviors or just trying to discover God’s will for your life, take the next 90 days and change your behavior.

I recommend the following:

(1) Read chapter of the Bible, starting in the Book of John, and one Psalm (start with Psalm 1 and finish with Psalm 90) and one Proverb (There are 31 proverbs, so you should be able to read the book of Proverbs 3 times in 90 days). Then, meditate on and pray about what you just read. Be sure to ask God in your prayer time to give you wisdom to know Jesus and His will for your life.
(2 Make notes about what you are learning and hearing from God in the Bible.
(3) Find a committed follower of Jesus and talk to them about what you are learning.
(4) Think and act differently. Apply what you are reading and learning.
(5) Attend a Bible believing church for the next 90 days. If you don’t have a church, try Every Nation Tallahassee and tell me about the changes you are making in your life.

As jars of clay, we are filled with joy when we live to please God. The only addictive behavior we should engage in is the worship of our great God. As we offer our lives to him as living sacrifices, he will transform us by renewing our minds to enjoy the only One that satisfies our souls.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. (2) Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2

Ultimately, God’s words and His way is the best solution to break destructive habits and give us the joy and pleasure we all long for deep in our hearts.