“Thy Face, O Lord, Will I Seek”
“When thou saidest, ‘Seek ye my face,’ my heart said unto thee, , Thy Face, Lord, will I seek’.”
Psalm 27:8
We’re all in search of something
In this helter-skelter world,
Pursuing possessions, fame and fortune,
Leaving us spinning dizzily in a whirl.
One event after another
Is the order of the day;
Then, we wonder why we’re so exhausted
In the busyness and the fray.
There’s nothing we can find
In this world’s vast array of treasure
That can fill the emptiness of the heart
Or bring us lasting pleasure.
Only by seeking the Face of God
And the Life that He does offer
Are we able to enjoy His Greatest Treasure,
Which is never found in man’s own coffer.
This Treasure is Jesus, His only Son,
Who came to live on earth;
He walked and talked with men of old
Of His Kingdom and the new birth.
He lived and died and rose again
So from sin we might be free;
In Him we find all we’ve been seeking
When we bow to Him on bended knee.
Yes, it’s when we choose to seek His Face
That we find the meaning of true Life;
It’s when we surrender our lives to Him
That we gain victory in the midst of strife.
To seek Him is to find Him;
To love Him—oh Joy Divine!
So seek His Face in all you do
As you leave your cares behind.
Tom Smith
Monday, March 1, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
“Falling Down As Dead Men”
“And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. . .” Revelation 1:17a
It only takes one glimpse. “And when I saw Him.”
We talk much about Jesus. We quote Scriptures of the Bible that deal with his promises. We even sing songs about Him and His power to change lives.
But, the question is “Do we really know Him?”
If we do we we would understand we can never be the same again.
Do you see Him there in your home as the Unseen Guest who longs to be host, listening to every conversation, looking over your shoulder at the things you read, the programs you watch on t.v. and the computer, the letters and e-mails you write, and so on?
Do you see Him there riding quietly beside you in the car as you go to work, listening to your conversations on the cell phone, and watching your reaction when the guy cuts you off in traffic or grabs the parking space you were headed toward?
Do you see Him during worship, eavesdropping on your thoughts as you sing those songs of praise and listen to the message or even Preach it yourself? Do you see Him hearing those critical words you mutter under your breath about someone else or those words of gossip about someone else?
Do you see Him in the middle of the night standing beside your bed when you wake from a dead sleep or find sleep hard to come by? Do you see Him as He slips in beside you, puts His arm around you and holds you close as tears of grief and regret flow down your face?
Do you see Him drawing near to you in that difficult time when everything’s falling apart and your long cherished dreams suddenly come crashing down on the hard rocks of reality? Do you see Him crying with you when that loved one has died and you stand at the grave not wanting to leave?
Do you see Him? If so, you know why John said “I fell at His feet as dead.”
When we really really see Him like Isaiah our reaction is “Woe is me, for I am undone, because I am a man of unclean lips and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips—for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts” (Is. 6:5).
It only takes one glimpse. “And when I saw Him.”
We talk much about Jesus. We quote Scriptures of the Bible that deal with his promises. We even sing songs about Him and His power to change lives.
But, the question is “Do we really know Him?”
If we do we we would understand we can never be the same again.
Do you see Him there in your home as the Unseen Guest who longs to be host, listening to every conversation, looking over your shoulder at the things you read, the programs you watch on t.v. and the computer, the letters and e-mails you write, and so on?
Do you see Him there riding quietly beside you in the car as you go to work, listening to your conversations on the cell phone, and watching your reaction when the guy cuts you off in traffic or grabs the parking space you were headed toward?
Do you see Him during worship, eavesdropping on your thoughts as you sing those songs of praise and listen to the message or even Preach it yourself? Do you see Him hearing those critical words you mutter under your breath about someone else or those words of gossip about someone else?
Do you see Him in the middle of the night standing beside your bed when you wake from a dead sleep or find sleep hard to come by? Do you see Him as He slips in beside you, puts His arm around you and holds you close as tears of grief and regret flow down your face?
Do you see Him drawing near to you in that difficult time when everything’s falling apart and your long cherished dreams suddenly come crashing down on the hard rocks of reality? Do you see Him crying with you when that loved one has died and you stand at the grave not wanting to leave?
Do you see Him? If so, you know why John said “I fell at His feet as dead.”
When we really really see Him like Isaiah our reaction is “Woe is me, for I am undone, because I am a man of unclean lips and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips—for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts” (Is. 6:5).
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
"Copied and Pasted"
LET ME SEE IF I GOT THIS RIGHT:
IF YOU CROSS THE NORTH KOREAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET 12 YEARS HARD LABOR.
IF YOU CROSS THE IRANIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU ARE DETAINED INDEFINITELY.
IF YOU CROSS THE AFGHAN BORDER ILLEGALLY, YOU GET SHOT.
IF YOU CROSS THE SAUDI ARABIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE JAILED.
IF YOU CROSS THE CHINESE BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU MAY NEVER BE HEARD FROM AGAIN.
IF YOU CROSS THE VENEZUELAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE BRANDED A SPY AND YOUR FATE WILL BE SEALED.
IF YOU CROSS THE CUBAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE THROWN INTO POLITICAL PRISON TO ROT.
IF YOU CROSS THE U.S. BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET:
A JOB,
A DRIVERS LICENSE,
SOCIAL SECURITY CARD,
WELFARE,
FOOD STAMPS,
CREDIT CARDS,
SUBSIDIZED RENT OR A LOAN TO BUY A HOUSE,
FREE EDUCATION,
FREE HEALTH CARE,
A LOBBYIST IN WASHINGTON
BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF PUBLIC DOCUMENTS PRINTED IN YOUR LANGUAGE
THE RIGHT TO CARRY YOUR COUNTRY’S FLAG WHILE YOU PROTEST THAT YOU DON’T GET ENOUGH RESPECT
AND, IN MANY INSTANCES, YOU CAN VOTE.
I JUST WANTED TO MAKE SURE I HAD A FIRM GRASP ON THE SITUATION.
IF YOU CROSS THE NORTH KOREAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET 12 YEARS HARD LABOR.
IF YOU CROSS THE IRANIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU ARE DETAINED INDEFINITELY.
IF YOU CROSS THE AFGHAN BORDER ILLEGALLY, YOU GET SHOT.
IF YOU CROSS THE SAUDI ARABIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE JAILED.
IF YOU CROSS THE CHINESE BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU MAY NEVER BE HEARD FROM AGAIN.
IF YOU CROSS THE VENEZUELAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE BRANDED A SPY AND YOUR FATE WILL BE SEALED.
IF YOU CROSS THE CUBAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE THROWN INTO POLITICAL PRISON TO ROT.
IF YOU CROSS THE U.S. BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET:
A JOB,
A DRIVERS LICENSE,
SOCIAL SECURITY CARD,
WELFARE,
FOOD STAMPS,
CREDIT CARDS,
SUBSIDIZED RENT OR A LOAN TO BUY A HOUSE,
FREE EDUCATION,
FREE HEALTH CARE,
A LOBBYIST IN WASHINGTON
BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF PUBLIC DOCUMENTS PRINTED IN YOUR LANGUAGE
THE RIGHT TO CARRY YOUR COUNTRY’S FLAG WHILE YOU PROTEST THAT YOU DON’T GET ENOUGH RESPECT
AND, IN MANY INSTANCES, YOU CAN VOTE.
I JUST WANTED TO MAKE SURE I HAD A FIRM GRASP ON THE SITUATION.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
"Just a Question"
We know that the "Great Commission tells us to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Ghost. In the book of Acts Peter baptizes in the "Name of Jesus."
Peter was never rebuked for baptizing in Jesus name therefore it was not wrong in the eyes of God. So why don't we? Why don't baptist baptize in the name of Jesus? Why do we lift our hand and say the words we say? Why not just say, "We baptize you in the Name of Jesus?"
Peter was never rebuked for baptizing in Jesus name therefore it was not wrong in the eyes of God. So why don't we? Why don't baptist baptize in the name of Jesus? Why do we lift our hand and say the words we say? Why not just say, "We baptize you in the Name of Jesus?"
Monday, January 25, 2010
“The Secret of Success”
“Then he answered and spake unto me saying, This is the Word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of host.”
Zechariah 4:6
This is not the world’s way of doing things, but in the end it’s the only one that matters. Opinion polls. Marketing strategies. Ten-year plans. Perk charts. Wiring diagrams.
Those are what make for “success,” according to the shakers-and-makers in this world. In fact, these professional gurus have demonstrated great abilties in developing products that will appeal to their target group according to studies and trends.
Sadly, more and more churches (and Christians) are buying into these strategies these days.
For some reason old-fashioned preaching of the Gospel just doesn’t seem to cut it in our always on the go and short attention crowds and the “It’s all about me” generation.
Yet, such was prophesied as we near the time of Christ’s Return (II Tim. 4:3-4). Even so, we should not be deterred from the truth of Gods word. His Word is changeless. And, His Way of doing things also doesn’t change. It is the true and Holy way.
Look at God’s words to Zerubbabel (and us) once again: “Not by might or power”—not by physical strength, clever persuasion, bombs, bullets, missiles, troop strength, financial resources, etc.
“But by My Spirit”—only that which is God-initiated, God-designed, God-sanctioned and God-anointed will pass through the fires of Judgment; all else will fall to “rust, rot and robbers” (Mt. 6:19-21).
That’s why it’s important for us to remember this when we’re attempting to do anything for the Lord God. Only that which has God’s stamp of approval will succeed when everything else has failed (Mt. 6:33).
So, the question is “What am I attempting for God that is impossible to accomplish without His help?” Or, “If what I’m doing suddenly ceased, would others notice or care—i.e., is it really making any eternal impact and difference at all?”
Tough questions, aren’t they? But questions that must be honestly asked if we’re to ensure our “labor has not been in vain” when we pass from this walk of life (I Cor. 9:27; 15:10, 58; Phil. 2:16; I Thess. 3:5).
Remember my friends, " For we must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and give an account of the things done in this body wheither they be good or bad." What he we stood before him even today? How would you stand? What words would you hear? What would you have left to throw at the precious feet of Jesus???
May we spend some time today allowing the Holy Spirit to examine what we’re doing and why. Then, may we listen to what He has to say and make whatever changes are necessary to ensure we’re “walking in the Spirit” (Rom. 8:1) and operating in His Strength, not our own.
Zechariah 4:6
This is not the world’s way of doing things, but in the end it’s the only one that matters. Opinion polls. Marketing strategies. Ten-year plans. Perk charts. Wiring diagrams.
Those are what make for “success,” according to the shakers-and-makers in this world. In fact, these professional gurus have demonstrated great abilties in developing products that will appeal to their target group according to studies and trends.
Sadly, more and more churches (and Christians) are buying into these strategies these days.
For some reason old-fashioned preaching of the Gospel just doesn’t seem to cut it in our always on the go and short attention crowds and the “It’s all about me” generation.
Yet, such was prophesied as we near the time of Christ’s Return (II Tim. 4:3-4). Even so, we should not be deterred from the truth of Gods word. His Word is changeless. And, His Way of doing things also doesn’t change. It is the true and Holy way.
Look at God’s words to Zerubbabel (and us) once again: “Not by might or power”—not by physical strength, clever persuasion, bombs, bullets, missiles, troop strength, financial resources, etc.
“But by My Spirit”—only that which is God-initiated, God-designed, God-sanctioned and God-anointed will pass through the fires of Judgment; all else will fall to “rust, rot and robbers” (Mt. 6:19-21).
That’s why it’s important for us to remember this when we’re attempting to do anything for the Lord God. Only that which has God’s stamp of approval will succeed when everything else has failed (Mt. 6:33).
So, the question is “What am I attempting for God that is impossible to accomplish without His help?” Or, “If what I’m doing suddenly ceased, would others notice or care—i.e., is it really making any eternal impact and difference at all?”
Tough questions, aren’t they? But questions that must be honestly asked if we’re to ensure our “labor has not been in vain” when we pass from this walk of life (I Cor. 9:27; 15:10, 58; Phil. 2:16; I Thess. 3:5).
Remember my friends, " For we must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and give an account of the things done in this body wheither they be good or bad." What he we stood before him even today? How would you stand? What words would you hear? What would you have left to throw at the precious feet of Jesus???
May we spend some time today allowing the Holy Spirit to examine what we’re doing and why. Then, may we listen to what He has to say and make whatever changes are necessary to ensure we’re “walking in the Spirit” (Rom. 8:1) and operating in His Strength, not our own.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
"Does God Still Care"
Last week we were informed through extensive tests that Clayton's bladder condition has gotten worse instead of better due to the fact his nerve ending were damaged because of his birth defect. Also the test revealed his sphincter muscle does not work at all. Due to this condition the doc told us he will be in a diaper for now on. We have gone from not cathing him at all to now cathing him every three to four hours. My wife and I watch him as he gets frustrated trying to keep up with children his age. We watch him as he tries to play tag but can't because of his lack of mobility. We watch children playing baseball, football and basketball just wishing he would have the chance to shine so bright but knowing he will never get the chance.
Yes they did inform us of the possibities of this at birth, but for the past three years things seemed to be working in his favor. None of the above traits were affecting him. Now it looks as if many of the hard to accept characteristics of children born with Spina Bifida are being seen in the life of my little man.
So why? Does God really care? Is his hand of mercy and grace still extended to my son and family? Who's fault is it? Who's sin and shame caused this frustration and pain?
John 9 teaches us of a boy born blind from birth. Many didnt understand the reason or accept him in his condition, but Christ did. Many blamed this one and that one, but Christ blamed no one. Christ even lets us know the reason for his blindness. Vs.3 "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." And it was.....40, 41 "And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We SEE; therefore your sin remaineth."
You see, "I know God still cares." I know, "His grace will be sufficent in every time of need." I know, "All things will work together for good to them that love God." I just pray that God will use this in a mighty way to reveal his Light just as he did with the blind man. Do I wished Clayton did not have to go through what he will have to go through for what possibly could be the rest of his life. Yes!! Do I pray for God to take this pain away? Absolutely!! Do I get down and frustrated and wish God would not have choosen me? Who wouldn't!!! But God is God and who better to trust in all things than the one who created him just as he is. Just as I have said before Clayton may be handicapped, he may be slow and face surgeries and hardships in the present and future, but he is perfect in the eyes of God. He is just the way God needs him at the moment. Who knows someone may just trust Christ as savior by watching the life of my son. That would be awesome because in the end physical disabilities will all vanish, but spiritual sickness will last throughout all eternity.
Well I guess I'm through revealing my heart. Just help to sometime air things out. Please remember us in prayer. It's a battle through this pilgrims journey, but one day soon we will all be home. "Even so come Lord Jesus."
Yes they did inform us of the possibities of this at birth, but for the past three years things seemed to be working in his favor. None of the above traits were affecting him. Now it looks as if many of the hard to accept characteristics of children born with Spina Bifida are being seen in the life of my little man.
So why? Does God really care? Is his hand of mercy and grace still extended to my son and family? Who's fault is it? Who's sin and shame caused this frustration and pain?
John 9 teaches us of a boy born blind from birth. Many didnt understand the reason or accept him in his condition, but Christ did. Many blamed this one and that one, but Christ blamed no one. Christ even lets us know the reason for his blindness. Vs.3 "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." And it was.....40, 41 "And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We SEE; therefore your sin remaineth."
You see, "I know God still cares." I know, "His grace will be sufficent in every time of need." I know, "All things will work together for good to them that love God." I just pray that God will use this in a mighty way to reveal his Light just as he did with the blind man. Do I wished Clayton did not have to go through what he will have to go through for what possibly could be the rest of his life. Yes!! Do I pray for God to take this pain away? Absolutely!! Do I get down and frustrated and wish God would not have choosen me? Who wouldn't!!! But God is God and who better to trust in all things than the one who created him just as he is. Just as I have said before Clayton may be handicapped, he may be slow and face surgeries and hardships in the present and future, but he is perfect in the eyes of God. He is just the way God needs him at the moment. Who knows someone may just trust Christ as savior by watching the life of my son. That would be awesome because in the end physical disabilities will all vanish, but spiritual sickness will last throughout all eternity.
Well I guess I'm through revealing my heart. Just help to sometime air things out. Please remember us in prayer. It's a battle through this pilgrims journey, but one day soon we will all be home. "Even so come Lord Jesus."
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
"He is a Great God"
“Come unto Me, all you that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28
Never has there been a simpler, more blessed invitation than this one. If we received a handwritten, special-delivery invitation today from the President we’d sit down dumbfounded, and go even if we don't care for the man.
Yet, the God of the universe has invited us to “Come unto Him,” even though He knows everything about us (Ps. 139).
Every evil thought we’ve ever had (or will have). Every sinful deed we’ve ever done (or will do). Every unloving, critical word we’ve ever spoken (or will speak).
But, He still says “Come unto Me.” The question is “Will we, like the prodigal son, arise and go” (Lk. 15:18a)?
The next question is “Who, then, is invited and what should he/she wear?” The answer is in the verse. The answer is before our very eyes. "Whosoever will may come” is implied and understood in the direct command “Come.” And, the proper attire is “Just as you are.”
Look at those words again. “All you that labor and are heavy-laden.”
It’s the picture of someone who’s been out working in the fields all day long. Their clothes are dirty and soaked in perspiration. They’re far from the desired smell of most. And, the Master knows the journey is a long one so He drives up on His wagon. . .stops with His Mercy and Grace and says to us, bent low by the burden of sin, “Come on. Hop aboard. I’ll give you Rest.” Praise the Lord!!! Did those words “And I will give you rest” sound inviting to you? In this hectic, hurry-up world we know little of this thing called “rest” anymore. From the time we get up in the morning until we collapse in exhaustion late at night we’re “go, go, go. . .hurry up and wait. . .grab a bite on the run. . .catch your breath if you can. . .and hang on for the ride.”
But, in the midst of it all, we can still have His “one-of-a-kind, indescribable Peace” (Jn. 14:27; Phil. 4:7) But there is a secret only the studier learns. So what is it? Quite simply to “take Jesus’ yoke upon us and learn of Him” (Mt. 11:29a). Why not thank Him right now?
Matthew 11:28
Never has there been a simpler, more blessed invitation than this one. If we received a handwritten, special-delivery invitation today from the President we’d sit down dumbfounded, and go even if we don't care for the man.
Yet, the God of the universe has invited us to “Come unto Him,” even though He knows everything about us (Ps. 139).
Every evil thought we’ve ever had (or will have). Every sinful deed we’ve ever done (or will do). Every unloving, critical word we’ve ever spoken (or will speak).
But, He still says “Come unto Me.” The question is “Will we, like the prodigal son, arise and go” (Lk. 15:18a)?
The next question is “Who, then, is invited and what should he/she wear?” The answer is in the verse. The answer is before our very eyes. "Whosoever will may come” is implied and understood in the direct command “Come.” And, the proper attire is “Just as you are.”
Look at those words again. “All you that labor and are heavy-laden.”
It’s the picture of someone who’s been out working in the fields all day long. Their clothes are dirty and soaked in perspiration. They’re far from the desired smell of most. And, the Master knows the journey is a long one so He drives up on His wagon. . .stops with His Mercy and Grace and says to us, bent low by the burden of sin, “Come on. Hop aboard. I’ll give you Rest.” Praise the Lord!!! Did those words “And I will give you rest” sound inviting to you? In this hectic, hurry-up world we know little of this thing called “rest” anymore. From the time we get up in the morning until we collapse in exhaustion late at night we’re “go, go, go. . .hurry up and wait. . .grab a bite on the run. . .catch your breath if you can. . .and hang on for the ride.”
But, in the midst of it all, we can still have His “one-of-a-kind, indescribable Peace” (Jn. 14:27; Phil. 4:7) But there is a secret only the studier learns. So what is it? Quite simply to “take Jesus’ yoke upon us and learn of Him” (Mt. 11:29a). Why not thank Him right now?
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