All families suffer pain. I would like to dedicate this and the next few posts of Barnabas Notes to the encouragement of those whose families are hurting. Often it seems that people have the idea that the only thing God has to say about our problems is, "Be good" or "You cannot have any part of Me until you solve your problems." Nothing could be further from the truth!
Virtually any discussion of the current sociopolitical climate will, at some point, come around to issues affecting families; real people just like you and me. One of the most important topics of discussion and debate in our capital right now is health care. That affects families. Part of the debate on health care deals with abortion and single parent families. Other specific issues that continue to be discussed are specific issues like gangs, drugs and "drive-by shootings"; issues that tear apart families. Politicians on both sides of the aisle want their constituents to think they are concerned with "family values." About the only thing anyone knows for sure today about families is that there is a lot of pain and many have begun to believe that there is no hope no matter where they look. And it is worse now than any of us can remember.
There has always been enough hurt to go around. Families have lost children and/or parents to illness, accident or violence as long as there have been families. Fathers and mothers and children have always "run away" from the rest of the family. There have always been family members who have suffered abuse from someone else in the family. However, it seems that family violece and suffering are on the increase. It could be that it is just reported more; or, it could be that things are just worse. The question is: "Why?" One possibility is that we are seeing the result of several decades of the effect of television. That is probably a little over-simplified, but the argument has some merit. Another possibility is the principle that "what parents excuse in moderation, children abuse in excess" as someone once said. The truth is probably a combination of these and some other factors. The next question would have to be: "What are we going to do?" Before we endeavor to answer that question, we should note that the problems of divorce, drug abuse and family violence, while not as prevalent in the church as they are in the world, are in the church, nevertheless.
In answering any of the specific problems families face, we must first lay a foundation. First, let's identify the cause of the problem. I know, we already talked about why we have this problem. However, let's go back even further, to an even more general cause of the problem. Is life just a roll of the dice...you either have good kids (or parents) or you don't? Some people believe that, but I vigorously deny it! If that were the case, we would not have Scriptures like ...fathers do not provoke your children to wrath... (Ephesians 6:4), or ...evil companions corrupt good morals... (1 Corinthians 15:33). The reason these problems that hurt and destroy families in the world, and even in the church, is because of sin on the part of someone; someone did not obey these commands and others like them. Now, what are we going to do about it?
Matthew 11:28-30 is going to play a large part in dealing with the problems families suffer through in a more specific sense: "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." The first step we must take in coming to Jesus is to repent. Regardless of whose sin has brought about the suffering the family is enduring, we must pray for God's help. We must develop an attitude that God is on our side and if we remain on His side (faithful to Him) none of these problems can overcome us. Take some time and read Romans 8:31-39. We must then diligently search the Scriptures to find God's will for dealing with the specific problems that afflict our families. In the next few posts we will be doing just that.
It has been my experience that a great number of people, even Christians, feel that when problems arise, God has somehow failed them. Others may not feel that strongly about it, but still have the idea that they will solve their problems before they approach the Lord. Well, that approach will not work in the long run. The truth of the matter is that God does not give us these problems to punish us, but He does allow us to undergo tests that will only strengthen us if we will rely on His strength to get us through. It ought to be a great source of unceasing comfort and encouragement to know that no matter what happens in your family, God stands at your elbow, ready to take on all your worries and fears and give you the only kind of comfort that helps. He wants to help ease the pain in your family because He loves you and I want you to know that because I love you, too.
Donnie Bates
A peaceful spring on the Macedonian side of Lake Ochrid in the Balkan Mountains
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Monday, January 25, 2010
Crossing the Jordan
It has been my privilege and blessing to have had, on several occasions, the opportunity to write in tribute to a faithful brother who has passed from this life. I realize that the older I get, the more frequently this is likely to happen, but it must be understood that the admiration is genuine in each case.
On Sunday, January 24, 2010 brother Dick Logan laid down his earthly tent and stepped into eternity. It has been my blessing to know this brother almost my entire life. I remember playing against basketball and softball teams he coached when I was a youngster. As a teenager I remember him preaching in small congregations of the Lord's church in the area, always ready to help small groups of Christians who needed it. I remember him as a faithful Gospel preacher (no preacher could ask for higher praise in someone's memory). I mentioned just today to a dear friend of mine that I felt brother Dick was instrumental in my moving to Hugo, Oklahoma just over ten years ago. That move, for my family and me, proved to be pivotal in the way our lives have turned out to this point. In the last ten years, when I was able to be around him more, Dick always had an encouraging word to say to me; I never failed to be humbled by his kindness when in his presence.
Circumstances require that I be out of the country on the day his earthly remains are laid to rest. However, I know that brother Dick would say that is exactly where I need to be. Even so, at 3:00 p.m. CST on Thursday, January 28, 2010, a large part of my heart will be in a country school building in the community of Forrest Grove in Southeastern Oklahoma where family (both physical and spiritual) and friends of Dick Logan will gather to offer tributes to my friend and fellow soldier of the cross. I will not say "final respects" because respect will be paid to this faithful man every time his name is mentioned for many years to come. I pray God's richest blessings on Dick's wife Gloria and all the rest of his family.
Many who read this blog do not know Dick Logan. However, you know of others who have lived faithful lives before God according to His Word. I will close by allowing the apostle Paul to offer words of comfort and it is my wish (and I believe brother Dick would agree) that these words of comfort be applied to every family who grieves at the loss of a loved one who faithfully served Jehovah God.
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
God loves you and so do I.
Donnie Bates
On Sunday, January 24, 2010 brother Dick Logan laid down his earthly tent and stepped into eternity. It has been my blessing to know this brother almost my entire life. I remember playing against basketball and softball teams he coached when I was a youngster. As a teenager I remember him preaching in small congregations of the Lord's church in the area, always ready to help small groups of Christians who needed it. I remember him as a faithful Gospel preacher (no preacher could ask for higher praise in someone's memory). I mentioned just today to a dear friend of mine that I felt brother Dick was instrumental in my moving to Hugo, Oklahoma just over ten years ago. That move, for my family and me, proved to be pivotal in the way our lives have turned out to this point. In the last ten years, when I was able to be around him more, Dick always had an encouraging word to say to me; I never failed to be humbled by his kindness when in his presence.
Circumstances require that I be out of the country on the day his earthly remains are laid to rest. However, I know that brother Dick would say that is exactly where I need to be. Even so, at 3:00 p.m. CST on Thursday, January 28, 2010, a large part of my heart will be in a country school building in the community of Forrest Grove in Southeastern Oklahoma where family (both physical and spiritual) and friends of Dick Logan will gather to offer tributes to my friend and fellow soldier of the cross. I will not say "final respects" because respect will be paid to this faithful man every time his name is mentioned for many years to come. I pray God's richest blessings on Dick's wife Gloria and all the rest of his family.
Many who read this blog do not know Dick Logan. However, you know of others who have lived faithful lives before God according to His Word. I will close by allowing the apostle Paul to offer words of comfort and it is my wish (and I believe brother Dick would agree) that these words of comfort be applied to every family who grieves at the loss of a loved one who faithfully served Jehovah God.
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
God loves you and so do I.
Donnie Bates
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
My Friends
I have had a lot of cause to think about my friends and friendship in general lately. I am so blessed not to ever have any reason to feel lonely. And, yes, I fully recognize that is a blessing because so many people feel all alone. I could point out that no one should ever feel alone in this world (Psalm 139). I could do my best to convince you that you have friends who love you, but the fact of the matter is, some people feel lonely...some experience a loneliness that is overwhelming.
I have written in other posts about friendship and the healing power of ministry. My purpose here is not to rehash old articles. I find myself this evening simply thinking about my friends. I am so glad that you are part of my life! All of my life I have heard and have been taught that a Christian is never truly alone; that God and one faithful person make a majority. I do not intend to contradict that idea, but I have to say that it becomes more and more evident that my friends are God's gift to me. I can survive if all I have is Him, but I thank Him that He has given me more!
Solomon wrote: A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity (Proverbs 17:17). To my friends I just want to say, "I love you! I pray God's richest blessings upon you. May you have the peace the surpasses all comprehension and may you ever and always know how important you are to me, but more importantly how important you are to God (John 3:16)."
Just in case anyone missed it in all of that, God loves you and so do I!
Donnie Bates
I have written in other posts about friendship and the healing power of ministry. My purpose here is not to rehash old articles. I find myself this evening simply thinking about my friends. I am so glad that you are part of my life! All of my life I have heard and have been taught that a Christian is never truly alone; that God and one faithful person make a majority. I do not intend to contradict that idea, but I have to say that it becomes more and more evident that my friends are God's gift to me. I can survive if all I have is Him, but I thank Him that He has given me more!
Solomon wrote: A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity (Proverbs 17:17). To my friends I just want to say, "I love you! I pray God's richest blessings upon you. May you have the peace the surpasses all comprehension and may you ever and always know how important you are to me, but more importantly how important you are to God (John 3:16)."
Just in case anyone missed it in all of that, God loves you and so do I!
Donnie Bates
Sunday, January 3, 2010
What Now?
Marriage is hard! Everyone who is or has been married knows the truth of that statement. The Scriptures are full of advice and commands on how to make marriage work. The problem is, we sometimes do not listen to what the Scriptures say. The fact of the matter is, the principles I want to focus on in this post apply not only to marriage, but to other relationships, and not only to other relationships in general, but in our whole walk (life) before God; so, ultimately, we mean THE relationship that is most important in the life of each one of us and that would be our relationship with our heavenly Father.
There is some truth to the notion that life is hard. We have a somewhat irreverent modern proverb that says, "Life is hard...then you die!" For the faithful Christian, however, such a statement is not a cynical reflection, but a hope-filled statement.
In his first general epistle, the apostle Peter addressed the relationship between a husband and wife (1 Peter 3). Wives are commanded to be obedient and submissive to their husbands and in the case of a Christian woman who is married to a non-Christian man, such a faithful, Christian attitude can actually lead him to Christ. Husbands are commanded to love their wives and treat them in a very special way, as with a "weaker vessel" and as "heirs together of the grace of life" (i.e. as a fellow Christian) and he gives a warning to husbands who do not obey this command; their prayers will be hindered (1 Peter 3:7). In marriage, as in every other walk of life, if we do not obey the clear commands of Scripture, we are guilty of sin. Unlike many other sins, when we fail in this area (marriage) there is a great deal more pain and suffering evident. In a relationship as close as the marriage relationship (one flesh), the pain and injury caused by insensitivity and outright malice, whether manifested in infidelity or abuse (physical and/or verbal) is more intensely felt than in almost any other kind of sin. Well, what now? It would be easy to dwell in the past, and blame others or even ourselves, but what do I need to do right now in order to be found pleasing to God?
I cannot say this strongly enough: If you are guilty of sin in this or any other area of life, the very first thing you must do is repent and you must do so now. Do not wait until a convenient time, because a more convenient time than now will never come. That having been done, the question comes again: Now what?
The answer to that question is this: realize the true nature of what is happening. You, as a soldier of the cross, are under attack by your enemy, Satan. If you have been guilty of sin he has caused you injury, not in the hurt feelings you experience, but in the case of your yielding to temptation and committing the sin. I am referring to a spiritual injury, not a physical or emotional one. In realizing that you are a soldier of the cross, that this is a war, you should also realize that you are not a lonely sentry cut off from his or her unit. You are not in this alone. Our God has made you part of a fighting unit (the church) and you have faithful comrades in arms who will stand beside you and fight and even if in the fight we lose our lives physically, we win the fight spiritually if we remain faithful. And let us not forget that also on our side is our Dread Champion (Jeremiah 20:11). We will not lose as long as we remain on His side.
Returning to Peter's comments, notice how the apostle describes the Good Fight of living the faithful Christian life, in the context of a successful marriage. 1 Peter 3:10-12: "He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
It does not matter if that which causes you such pain today is a failed marriage, or an attack by someone else who is close to you. It does not matter if your boss has treated you unfairly, or your neighbor has taken advantage of you. Even if a teacher in your school has taken a particular interest in making your life miserable, or if you yourself are the guilty one in any of these scenarios, you can overcome. You can turn from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it and know that God's eyes are on you; He will not forsake you. He will not force you to repent, or take away your sins if you do not, but if you do, you will win...you will overcome. Isn't it a wonderful thing to know that God loves you? I hope it gives you some measure of comfort to know that I do, too.
Donnie Bates
There is some truth to the notion that life is hard. We have a somewhat irreverent modern proverb that says, "Life is hard...then you die!" For the faithful Christian, however, such a statement is not a cynical reflection, but a hope-filled statement.
In his first general epistle, the apostle Peter addressed the relationship between a husband and wife (1 Peter 3). Wives are commanded to be obedient and submissive to their husbands and in the case of a Christian woman who is married to a non-Christian man, such a faithful, Christian attitude can actually lead him to Christ. Husbands are commanded to love their wives and treat them in a very special way, as with a "weaker vessel" and as "heirs together of the grace of life" (i.e. as a fellow Christian) and he gives a warning to husbands who do not obey this command; their prayers will be hindered (1 Peter 3:7). In marriage, as in every other walk of life, if we do not obey the clear commands of Scripture, we are guilty of sin. Unlike many other sins, when we fail in this area (marriage) there is a great deal more pain and suffering evident. In a relationship as close as the marriage relationship (one flesh), the pain and injury caused by insensitivity and outright malice, whether manifested in infidelity or abuse (physical and/or verbal) is more intensely felt than in almost any other kind of sin. Well, what now? It would be easy to dwell in the past, and blame others or even ourselves, but what do I need to do right now in order to be found pleasing to God?
I cannot say this strongly enough: If you are guilty of sin in this or any other area of life, the very first thing you must do is repent and you must do so now. Do not wait until a convenient time, because a more convenient time than now will never come. That having been done, the question comes again: Now what?
The answer to that question is this: realize the true nature of what is happening. You, as a soldier of the cross, are under attack by your enemy, Satan. If you have been guilty of sin he has caused you injury, not in the hurt feelings you experience, but in the case of your yielding to temptation and committing the sin. I am referring to a spiritual injury, not a physical or emotional one. In realizing that you are a soldier of the cross, that this is a war, you should also realize that you are not a lonely sentry cut off from his or her unit. You are not in this alone. Our God has made you part of a fighting unit (the church) and you have faithful comrades in arms who will stand beside you and fight and even if in the fight we lose our lives physically, we win the fight spiritually if we remain faithful. And let us not forget that also on our side is our Dread Champion (Jeremiah 20:11). We will not lose as long as we remain on His side.
Returning to Peter's comments, notice how the apostle describes the Good Fight of living the faithful Christian life, in the context of a successful marriage. 1 Peter 3:10-12: "He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
It does not matter if that which causes you such pain today is a failed marriage, or an attack by someone else who is close to you. It does not matter if your boss has treated you unfairly, or your neighbor has taken advantage of you. Even if a teacher in your school has taken a particular interest in making your life miserable, or if you yourself are the guilty one in any of these scenarios, you can overcome. You can turn from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it and know that God's eyes are on you; He will not forsake you. He will not force you to repent, or take away your sins if you do not, but if you do, you will win...you will overcome. Isn't it a wonderful thing to know that God loves you? I hope it gives you some measure of comfort to know that I do, too.
Donnie Bates
Monday, December 28, 2009
"If You Only Knew..."
First of all, I want to thank Tim Lewis for giving me the idea for this post. As is often the case when one is preaching the Message of God's Word to an audience, a grain of truth finds its way into a heart in a way that the messenger may not be aware of or even intended. In pointing out the sad truth that some have a hard time believing that God could love them because their sin is so grievous, I was encouraged to think of my own life and admit what I knew to be true, but, like everyone else, sometimes have a hard time remembering. God loves me! Thanks, Tim.
Guilt is a good thing...with some qualifications. This is such a radical idea in this day and age, that some may actually stop reading right here. Please do not!! Some have the idea that guilt is the greatest of evils. The television is full of preachers who preach that guilt should be the furthest thing from your mind; that Jesus died to absolve you of all guilt. Well, that is only part of the story.
Yes, Jesus did come into this world bringing salvation to all men (Titus 2:11); however, that salvation is offered conditionally (i.e. on the condition that we respond to that offer in faithful obedience and faithful obedience as God has defined it in His Word). What does that have to do with guilt? Guilt is built into us by God and is a good thing when allowed to function as He intended. And that function is to help us humble ourselves before God. Guilt reminds me that I am a sinner and that when I approach the throne of God, "I am a man of unclean lips" (Isaiah 6:5). I do not deserve to be in His presence; I do not deserve His grace. Thanks be to God, however, that He does not act on my behalf based on what I deserve, but on His own love toward me!
Here is the message I want to leave you with today. You may very well think that your sin is so bad that God could not possibly forgive you, never mind love you, but you are wrong. You may think it bold of me to say that, but it's true. Do you find yourself in a cycle of sin that has you feeling guilty, sincerely repenting and then, after a period of time, returning to the same sin? I do! When I consider my life, I remember that Jesus promised to "vomit out" of His mouth the lukewarm Christian (Revelation 3:16 NKJV). My guilt sometimes makes me think He must surely have me in mind because that is what I think of myself.
It is somewhat like the husband that gets angry and beats his wife. We have all seen this guy on television (sometimes reality TV). We do not have much pity for someone who would do that, and we really don't understand why his wife will defend him and then forgive him and take him back when he comes in tears and apologizes and promises to never do it again. Please do not misunderstand me to be defending such behavior!! If you are like me, when you see that guy on TV, you think to yourself when he apologizes, or she defends him, "Yeah, right!" We know he will do it again, don't we? When I sin, I feel like I'm that guy!
We think we have people figured out...that we know someone (e.g. like the wife-beater who will do it again). We don't buy their apologies or penitence one little bit!! And I have committed certain sins so many times that God must surely think the very same thing of me. If I am so disgusted with myself, He must be, too. The fact of the matter is, God does know me. He knows the sincerity of my heart, the self-loathing I feel when I come to Him in penitent prayer, asking - no begging - for His forgiveness. When I have Godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10), He knows the truth about whether there is "longing" in my heart to be right with Him, or if there is really is a "zeal" about my desire to be right with Him (2 Corinthians 7:11).
Well, it makes me feel a little better to know that I do not have to worry that I was not convincing enough to God when I repented. I am left with the acknowledgement of my weakness and a need for His strength to keep fighting to overcome the temptation to commit that certain sin.
I truly love the people in my life who say nice things about me; who tell me they admire this or that thing about me. However, every time I hear a compliment, a part of my mind thinks, "If you only knew..." and the self-loathing is there, always there, ready to bind that heavy ball and chain of guilt to my ankle. I feel its weight and I feel its threat to overwhelm me. Another preacher many years ago reminded me of something that I have tried to repeat as often as I can. We all realize the most difficult person to forgive is...yourself. The fact of the matter is: forgiveness is not my job! Forgiveness of me is God's job; my job is repentance and faithful obedience to His will. So, I must do my job and let God do His!!
Friend, do not give up in despair and hopelessness when you find yourself in that cycle of sin. God knows you and your heart and He knew it before the foundations of the earth; Jesus knew it when He submitted Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:5ff). A word of caution: He does not forgive sins when we do not repent, but if you will submit yourself to His will as He has instructed in His Word, you do not have to worry about convincing Him of your sincerity. If you are sincere, He knows!!
I hope that gives you some encouragement this morning. The weight you carry is not one that is heavier than anyone else's. We have all been there and many of us are still there (1 Corinthians 10:13a). I hope you can begin the new year with the realization that God loves you and I really want you to know that I love you, too. God bless you!
Donnie Bates
Guilt is a good thing...with some qualifications. This is such a radical idea in this day and age, that some may actually stop reading right here. Please do not!! Some have the idea that guilt is the greatest of evils. The television is full of preachers who preach that guilt should be the furthest thing from your mind; that Jesus died to absolve you of all guilt. Well, that is only part of the story.
Yes, Jesus did come into this world bringing salvation to all men (Titus 2:11); however, that salvation is offered conditionally (i.e. on the condition that we respond to that offer in faithful obedience and faithful obedience as God has defined it in His Word). What does that have to do with guilt? Guilt is built into us by God and is a good thing when allowed to function as He intended. And that function is to help us humble ourselves before God. Guilt reminds me that I am a sinner and that when I approach the throne of God, "I am a man of unclean lips" (Isaiah 6:5). I do not deserve to be in His presence; I do not deserve His grace. Thanks be to God, however, that He does not act on my behalf based on what I deserve, but on His own love toward me!
Here is the message I want to leave you with today. You may very well think that your sin is so bad that God could not possibly forgive you, never mind love you, but you are wrong. You may think it bold of me to say that, but it's true. Do you find yourself in a cycle of sin that has you feeling guilty, sincerely repenting and then, after a period of time, returning to the same sin? I do! When I consider my life, I remember that Jesus promised to "vomit out" of His mouth the lukewarm Christian (Revelation 3:16 NKJV). My guilt sometimes makes me think He must surely have me in mind because that is what I think of myself.
It is somewhat like the husband that gets angry and beats his wife. We have all seen this guy on television (sometimes reality TV). We do not have much pity for someone who would do that, and we really don't understand why his wife will defend him and then forgive him and take him back when he comes in tears and apologizes and promises to never do it again. Please do not misunderstand me to be defending such behavior!! If you are like me, when you see that guy on TV, you think to yourself when he apologizes, or she defends him, "Yeah, right!" We know he will do it again, don't we? When I sin, I feel like I'm that guy!
We think we have people figured out...that we know someone (e.g. like the wife-beater who will do it again). We don't buy their apologies or penitence one little bit!! And I have committed certain sins so many times that God must surely think the very same thing of me. If I am so disgusted with myself, He must be, too. The fact of the matter is, God does know me. He knows the sincerity of my heart, the self-loathing I feel when I come to Him in penitent prayer, asking - no begging - for His forgiveness. When I have Godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10), He knows the truth about whether there is "longing" in my heart to be right with Him, or if there is really is a "zeal" about my desire to be right with Him (2 Corinthians 7:11).
Well, it makes me feel a little better to know that I do not have to worry that I was not convincing enough to God when I repented. I am left with the acknowledgement of my weakness and a need for His strength to keep fighting to overcome the temptation to commit that certain sin.
I truly love the people in my life who say nice things about me; who tell me they admire this or that thing about me. However, every time I hear a compliment, a part of my mind thinks, "If you only knew..." and the self-loathing is there, always there, ready to bind that heavy ball and chain of guilt to my ankle. I feel its weight and I feel its threat to overwhelm me. Another preacher many years ago reminded me of something that I have tried to repeat as often as I can. We all realize the most difficult person to forgive is...yourself. The fact of the matter is: forgiveness is not my job! Forgiveness of me is God's job; my job is repentance and faithful obedience to His will. So, I must do my job and let God do His!!
Friend, do not give up in despair and hopelessness when you find yourself in that cycle of sin. God knows you and your heart and He knew it before the foundations of the earth; Jesus knew it when He submitted Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:5ff). A word of caution: He does not forgive sins when we do not repent, but if you will submit yourself to His will as He has instructed in His Word, you do not have to worry about convincing Him of your sincerity. If you are sincere, He knows!!
I hope that gives you some encouragement this morning. The weight you carry is not one that is heavier than anyone else's. We have all been there and many of us are still there (1 Corinthians 10:13a). I hope you can begin the new year with the realization that God loves you and I really want you to know that I love you, too. God bless you!
Donnie Bates
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Happy Holidays?
As I told you in my last post, this is my favorite time of the year, and that is true for several reasons. However, I must number myself among those who grows tired of the commercialization of Christmas (along with a growing number of other holidays, it seems). Still, I look forward to the time I get to spend with family and just the general atmosphere of good will.
There are many people, however, who do not view the holiday season with the same attitude. Statistics tell us that a great many people dread this time of year. Some experts say that depression tends to increase around the holidays for some people, due to a variety of factors. The loss of a loved one, the lack of family to spend time with, or the stress of interacting with family can all exacerbate a feeling of depression specifically at this time of year. I know this problem is real. My family lost a loved one at Christmas time a few years ago and, while I believe we have coped with that loss, I'm not sure we have completely recovered, or are supposed to. So, I do not mean any of this to sound patronizing.
Wait a minute! I thought this was supposed to be a note of encouragement!! So far, it's been a little on the discouraging side.
How can we encourage those who find themselves discouraged during this "most wonderful time of the year"? (I love that song, by the way). Dealing with any of these stressors is difficult enough without the whole world (it seems) ramping up the cheer and happiness around us. The common denominator in this list seems to be loneliness. Every time anyone talks about what Christmas means to them, at some point they are going to say that they love the time spent with family. I said that myself just a minute ago. So, if I'm the one who doesn't have anyone to spend time with, my load just got a lot heavier to carry.
This is not the end of the post, but I'm going to jump in here with a "God loves you" to help take some of the weight off your shoulders. When Jesus said, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden..." (Matthew 11:28ff) there is a very definite application to the religious leaders who "bind heavy burdens that are hard to bear and lay them on men's shoulders" (Matthew 23:4). However, it seems to me that the burden carried by those discouraged in life and which tempts them to give up on life itself, or to allow their discouragement to overcome them and cause them to sink further into depression, is a burden that can be lifted with the help of Jesus. When the apostle Paul said that God is faithful and will provide a way of escape from every temptation, so that we need not be overcome by it (1 Corinthians 10:13), would that not include the temptation to allow the burden of loneliness to overcome us? Of course it would!!
One stressor we left out of our list is that of guilt. You see, many of those who suffer at this time of year are Christians. The fact that they are people means they are susceptible to the same kinds of temptations, pressures and discouragement that everyone else is. However, along with that, there is sometimes the feeling that since they are Christians, they're not supposed to be down or depressed. And when they are, they feel guilty. Let me encourage you not to let guilt overcome you. Look for that way of escape that Paul promised would be there. Find some way to minister to someone else. That is God's design to help the new creature be healed when he is hurt spiritually. Time and time again Jesus was wounded in spirit by the pressure of this life and every time, He looked on a multitude and felt compassion on them and ministered to them. Look through the archives of this blog to find a post entitled "The Healing Power of Ministry."
Whether I know you personally or not, I know that God loves you; He loves you enough that He sent His only begotten Son to die so that you can have eternal life where there will be no more suffering of any kind, if you will accept His offer on His terms (John 3:16; Revelation 21:4; John 14:15). And even if I do not know you, I love you enough to want to tell you that. I hope that this note will help ease your pain in some way. I know that I am strengthened and encouraged in the attempt. Find someone you can do the same with today. Make this holiday season the beginning of a new life for yourself. Don't focus on yourself, but on others, and don't stop when the trees and lights come down. Once again, God loves you and so do I.
Donnie Bates
There are many people, however, who do not view the holiday season with the same attitude. Statistics tell us that a great many people dread this time of year. Some experts say that depression tends to increase around the holidays for some people, due to a variety of factors. The loss of a loved one, the lack of family to spend time with, or the stress of interacting with family can all exacerbate a feeling of depression specifically at this time of year. I know this problem is real. My family lost a loved one at Christmas time a few years ago and, while I believe we have coped with that loss, I'm not sure we have completely recovered, or are supposed to. So, I do not mean any of this to sound patronizing.
Wait a minute! I thought this was supposed to be a note of encouragement!! So far, it's been a little on the discouraging side.
How can we encourage those who find themselves discouraged during this "most wonderful time of the year"? (I love that song, by the way). Dealing with any of these stressors is difficult enough without the whole world (it seems) ramping up the cheer and happiness around us. The common denominator in this list seems to be loneliness. Every time anyone talks about what Christmas means to them, at some point they are going to say that they love the time spent with family. I said that myself just a minute ago. So, if I'm the one who doesn't have anyone to spend time with, my load just got a lot heavier to carry.
This is not the end of the post, but I'm going to jump in here with a "God loves you" to help take some of the weight off your shoulders. When Jesus said, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden..." (Matthew 11:28ff) there is a very definite application to the religious leaders who "bind heavy burdens that are hard to bear and lay them on men's shoulders" (Matthew 23:4). However, it seems to me that the burden carried by those discouraged in life and which tempts them to give up on life itself, or to allow their discouragement to overcome them and cause them to sink further into depression, is a burden that can be lifted with the help of Jesus. When the apostle Paul said that God is faithful and will provide a way of escape from every temptation, so that we need not be overcome by it (1 Corinthians 10:13), would that not include the temptation to allow the burden of loneliness to overcome us? Of course it would!!
One stressor we left out of our list is that of guilt. You see, many of those who suffer at this time of year are Christians. The fact that they are people means they are susceptible to the same kinds of temptations, pressures and discouragement that everyone else is. However, along with that, there is sometimes the feeling that since they are Christians, they're not supposed to be down or depressed. And when they are, they feel guilty. Let me encourage you not to let guilt overcome you. Look for that way of escape that Paul promised would be there. Find some way to minister to someone else. That is God's design to help the new creature be healed when he is hurt spiritually. Time and time again Jesus was wounded in spirit by the pressure of this life and every time, He looked on a multitude and felt compassion on them and ministered to them. Look through the archives of this blog to find a post entitled "The Healing Power of Ministry."
Whether I know you personally or not, I know that God loves you; He loves you enough that He sent His only begotten Son to die so that you can have eternal life where there will be no more suffering of any kind, if you will accept His offer on His terms (John 3:16; Revelation 21:4; John 14:15). And even if I do not know you, I love you enough to want to tell you that. I hope that this note will help ease your pain in some way. I know that I am strengthened and encouraged in the attempt. Find someone you can do the same with today. Make this holiday season the beginning of a new life for yourself. Don't focus on yourself, but on others, and don't stop when the trees and lights come down. Once again, God loves you and so do I.
Donnie Bates
Thursday, December 17, 2009
'Tis [Always] the Season
I have to admit, this is just about my favorite time of year. I love the cooler [cold] weather; even though I'm cold-natured, I still like it cold outside. I love the atmosphere of Christmas, from the music on the radio to the decorations. I just love it!
There are a lot of people talking about Jesus being reason for the season and I am glad that people's minds turn to thoughts of Jesus this time of year, but that always makes me wonder why those same people do not talk about Him the other eleven months out of the year. It may come as a surprise to some, but Jesus did not come into this world to give us a holiday. He came to seek and to save that which was lost, at least, that's what He told a little fellow by the name of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:10).
Most people who celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday believe that this is the day of Jesus' birth. My purpose here is not to argue about that point. In this note from friend Barnabas I would like to use one of the songs we sing this time of year as a springboard to find some words of encouragement. Christmas or not, there are some pretty scary things going on in the world today. A lot of the uncertainty we are dealing with is because of politics, both national and international. What's going to happen in the next decade, next year, next month? We have never known the answer to that question in the past, but at least the future seemed a little more secure not so very long ago; now, however, it's a whole different story, isn't it?
On the night of Jesus' birth, an angel stood before a group of shepherds in the fields and announced good tidings of great joy to them. A great thing had happened...in the city of David a Savior was born, Who is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:10, 11). That announcement was immediately followed by the appearance of a heavenly host with the angel who said, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" (Luke 2:13, 14). People are singing those words right now, during these days leading up to Christmas.
Here is the encouraging part...the reason this was a "great thing" that had happened: The grace of God had appeared, bringing salvation to all men (Titus 2:11). We echo the words of the heavenly host and say, "Glory to God in the highest!" We, too, pray for peace on earth, but not peace between nations. We mean peace between God and man (Romans 5:1). Of course we want there to be peace between nations, but whether that happens or not, our prayer is that those who have no relationship with God, will submit to Him in humble, obedient faith. That is our "goodwill toward men," that men, all men...all people everywhere will repent of their sins (Acts 17:30) and take advantage of the incredible grace that appeared in the person of Jesus.
God sent His Son into this world as a human baby Who would grow into a man and die on a cross to give us the opportunity to be saved from our sins if we obey in faith the conditions of that offer. Yes, I think we can say that a great thing has happened! And with that realization we understand that it is ('tis) always the season to rejoice (be jolly). I hope you enjoy this holiday season and determine that you will live for Him everyday of the coming year. He loves you, you know, and so do I.
Donnie Bates
There are a lot of people talking about Jesus being reason for the season and I am glad that people's minds turn to thoughts of Jesus this time of year, but that always makes me wonder why those same people do not talk about Him the other eleven months out of the year. It may come as a surprise to some, but Jesus did not come into this world to give us a holiday. He came to seek and to save that which was lost, at least, that's what He told a little fellow by the name of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:10).
Most people who celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday believe that this is the day of Jesus' birth. My purpose here is not to argue about that point. In this note from friend Barnabas I would like to use one of the songs we sing this time of year as a springboard to find some words of encouragement. Christmas or not, there are some pretty scary things going on in the world today. A lot of the uncertainty we are dealing with is because of politics, both national and international. What's going to happen in the next decade, next year, next month? We have never known the answer to that question in the past, but at least the future seemed a little more secure not so very long ago; now, however, it's a whole different story, isn't it?
On the night of Jesus' birth, an angel stood before a group of shepherds in the fields and announced good tidings of great joy to them. A great thing had happened...in the city of David a Savior was born, Who is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:10, 11). That announcement was immediately followed by the appearance of a heavenly host with the angel who said, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" (Luke 2:13, 14). People are singing those words right now, during these days leading up to Christmas.
Here is the encouraging part...the reason this was a "great thing" that had happened: The grace of God had appeared, bringing salvation to all men (Titus 2:11). We echo the words of the heavenly host and say, "Glory to God in the highest!" We, too, pray for peace on earth, but not peace between nations. We mean peace between God and man (Romans 5:1). Of course we want there to be peace between nations, but whether that happens or not, our prayer is that those who have no relationship with God, will submit to Him in humble, obedient faith. That is our "goodwill toward men," that men, all men...all people everywhere will repent of their sins (Acts 17:30) and take advantage of the incredible grace that appeared in the person of Jesus.
God sent His Son into this world as a human baby Who would grow into a man and die on a cross to give us the opportunity to be saved from our sins if we obey in faith the conditions of that offer. Yes, I think we can say that a great thing has happened! And with that realization we understand that it is ('tis) always the season to rejoice (be jolly). I hope you enjoy this holiday season and determine that you will live for Him everyday of the coming year. He loves you, you know, and so do I.
Donnie Bates
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