May 14, 2014 | Faith In Everyday Life
Why did this happen to me? I just want it to go away.
When something happens differently than I think it should, I complain. I silently look at others and say, “Why didn’t this happen to them? I do what I am supposed to do. Look at the sinful way they live their lives. It is not fair!”
That is right. Life’s happenings are not fair. This life was never meant to be perfect.
When bad things happen, it is a normal human response to say, “I just want it to go away.” We want to rejoice when things are good but whine when things are bad. What good does it do to whine? Self-pity takes over when whining starts. Nothing good happens when these two culprits occupy our thinking.
Sometimes God puts things in our lives to remind us to rely on Jesus, not necessarily to punish us. Paul was given a thorn in the flesh to remind him that he was nothing without Jesus.
So to keep me from becoming conceited…a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited…But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-9a
When we are suffering is when we should be witnessing the most. As Christians, we must quit whining. Let others see God’s strength through us.
May 12, 2014 | Faith In Everyday Life
Something insulting is said. It may be intentional or just a thoughtless comment coming from an ignorant person. It makes no difference. It hurts and may even make you angry. What is your first response? Do you roll your eyes or make a gesture that displays your unbelief? Maybe you make eye contact with a close friend who will share your reaction.
Some people are composed enough to make an appropriate, but wise comment that gently puts the person in their place. Not me. My normal reactions are rash, blunt, and definitely not conciliatory. My face shows what I think and my quick words verify my thoughts.
I do not like this characteristic. If only I could be cool, calm, and collected even when the comment or action takes me by surprise. My failure is not because of not trying. I have told myself to shut my mouth and to look the other way or leave the room many times. It does not work. My anger or hurt is always evident in my body language.
My prayers recently have been for God to grant me patience and empathy for others. I must report that I am improving—even if it is very slowly. Maybe by the time I am ninety-five my actions and words will reflect God’s love, patience, and wisdom when difficult people damage my ego.
If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. James 1:26
Lord, give me the ability to keep my mouth shut. May I wisely say only the words that will reflect you love and your wisdom.
Nov 29, 2013 | Faith In Everyday Life
Rev. Ernie Clark
Our little country church was between pastors. My father had the responsibility of finding someone to fill the pulpit each Sunday. It was becoming more and more difficult so he decided to contact the Bible instructor at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. The Bible teacher had a student who impressed him even though he was not a religion major. Ernie Clark had not considered the possibility of preaching. His only reason for taking Bible classes was to learn more about God’s Word as he pursued a degree in another field.
Ernie agreed to speak for one Sunday only. He would give his testimony. They begged him to return one more, then one more Sunday. Ernie became the pastor of that church. It is there that God placed the love of preaching in his heart. After several years as pastor at Fairview Baptist Church, he moved on to pastor larger congregations.
Jim and Linda
John and Ruth
Mother
Through his ministry, Ernie led many people to salvation and challenged them to walk closer with Jesus. Because of his influence, Ernie’s children developed ministries. Ernie’s daughter Linda and her husband Jim created a ministry dramatizing Bible stories. John, one of Ernie’s sons, is now pastoring Judson Baptist Church in Kansas City. Even after moving into an assisted living facility, Ernie continues to witness and hold Bible studies.
Mother and I were fortunate enough to attend Ernie’s ninety-seventh birthday celebration last Saturday. What a blessing to hear how God has blessed him through the years and to hear him bless God.
My father faithfully followed God’s lead to contact that Bible teacher years ago. As a result, many lives have been changed. Are you following God’s direction today? What will your legacy be?
