As I mentioned in last week’s blog, this is “money time” in the National Football League (NFL). After this weekend, we will have four teams continuing the ambitious pursuit of the goal to advance to the Super Bowl. Just as there are four quarters (15 minutes each) played in a NFL game, I give you four God-centered goals for 2018 based on Philippians 3:10.
Read MoreAre you an ambitious person? Is it a good thing to be ambitious? When we talk about ambition it’s essential that we examine the context, methods influences and results of our ambition. Careful consideration to context is crucial in understanding the word ambition. In addition, when we consider apprehending an anointed ambition we need to consider the means and the ends (steps/course of actions and results).
Read MoreAbout a couple of weeks ago before Christmas I was blessed by a wonderful testimony that turned my attention to a tremendous truth taught in the word: C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S. At the close of our weekly Wednesday night prayer meeting and bible study one of our precious seniors shared with me how she noticed something special in the word Christmas while participating in our Finishing Strong Seniors ministry. One of the seniors was adorned in seasonal, sweet-looking sweater with the words Merry Christmas in huge letters! The individual that shared the story said “She shouted ‘Oh my goodness! I have never seen that before! I love Christmas even more because of what I see in the word Christmas! It is a personal message for me!’” Her rich revelation rested in the last three letters in the word Christmas (mas). She is not of Latin descent but she declared that the last three letters in the word Christmas (mas) means “more” in Spanish. Therefore we should want more Christ in Christmas. Personally I am proclaiming: “That will preach!”
Read MoreAs we approach the Advent season I thought it would be appropriate to offer several blog entries that would turn our attitudes to the reason for the season. How about starting with a good cup of JOE! Not a cup of coffee but Joseph aka Joe the Hero!
Read MoreChristmas is the most wonderful time of the year! Have you counted how many times you have heard that statement? It is featured on the radio and highlighted in music playing throughout malls and elevators country-wide. Our minds are being molded to believe that this is the only time of the year that we will experience joy, excitement, and happiness. But the truth is that for millions of people Christmas is not so wonderful a time. There is more fear than cheer due to unrealistic expectations. Extreme expectations erase the presence and power of the Prince of Peace!
Read MoreNow that another Thanksgiving has turned the corner it’s time to consider the Christmas season. Traditionally, after a faith-filled and festive time with the family, I usually take on the task to find the Christmas Tree! Not any ordinary tree will do. I search for a tree that will be deemed worthy of the season, declared as the most decorative tree on display and will also wrap our hearts and minds to the wonder of Christmas! What do we look for and expect from such an extraordinary evergreen?
Read MoreAs a six year old, Saturday morning Western TV programs walked my heart and mind into the world of the Colt .45, sheriffs, marshals, outlaws, stagecoaches, the Iron Horse (trains),cattle rustlers and gunfights. One of my favorite shows was the Rifleman with Chuck Conners. His character was Lucas McCain, the Rifleman. The outlaws always found themselves outgunned by the Rifleman’s rifle! There were other great Westerns that grab our attention and imagination such as Bonanza, the Virginian, High Chaparral, Big Valley and Gunsmoke. All of these great old Westerns ignited our imaginations to tour the world of the Old West.
Read MoreLike most God-fearing and good parents, we all purpose to promote and help our children process and practice virtues. Virtues reflect behavior that that is involved with high moral standards. These virtues include: truth, honor, patience, goodness, charity, respect and giving thanks.
Read MoreIn last week’s blog, I shared that my wife Gloria and I wanted our sons to pay attention to God’s Voice; specifically His law or Word and always remember how they were raised. It reminds me of the encouragement Paul gave to his spiritual son, Timothy.
“But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:14-15 (KJV)
This week’s blog is encouraged by my reflection as a parent. At this season in our lives, my wife and I are “embracing the empty nest.” God in His fabulous favor and magnanimous mercy gave us three sons who are now 28, 27 and 26 years of age. Like all parents we wanted nothing but the best for them. Specifically, a rich, real and rewarding relationship with God in which they trust and travel in the truth, are framed, focused and fearless in their faith and finally, sound, suited-up and strong in the spirit of God. I love my sons and intensely desire that they walk with the Lord.
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