THE BMIC BLAST OCTOBER 2025
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Sunday, September 28, 2025
Friday, September 26, 2025
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
THE GOODNESS OF THE HARVEST
Around mid- to late September, in our great regions on the plains of America, the great big green Combine Harvesters slowly chug down about 2/3's of two-lane roads heading for the corn or bean fields to cut the dried-out grain stalks, ready for the massive storage bins all over the Midwest.
It is an annual ritual that evokes the sights and sounds of tailgates, Friday Night Lights, apples and pumpkins everywhere....including the ubiquitous Pumpkin Spice...er...everything!
The Harvest is here. There are pieces of cornstalks all over the sidewalk. My brother and friend, and retired Pastor Milton, in his 70s, still drives the grain trucks from the fields to the bins, a job he remembers doing as a youth at his dad's trucking firm down in southern Illinois. These days, being 70 years old is the new 50! I learned that from one of the most unforgettable men I met in 2025 - Bob Tiede, of Leading With Questions, who has worked for CRU (formerly Campus Crusade For Christ) for 54 years. Bob is now 76, and as we discussed my approaching the 70 milestone in 2026, we discussed the Power of asking Questions.
It set me to thinking, all through the Gospels, we find the Lord Jesus asking questions of mere men like you and me. Did He ask questions because He did not know the answer? No! He asked them for these people and our benefit, almost 2000 years later. We find out that Jesus asked a total of about 125 questions, and there could have been more.
The Apostle John said in John 20:30-31 that "And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His Name".
One powerful question which Jesus asked in John 4:31 is " Do you not say, ‘There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!" In this context, He was attempting to fire up the disciples and us, to sow the seeds of the Gospel. The world is lost, and so many are departing this life, without the guarantee of eternal security, because, particularly in the Western world, the workers in the Harvest are few.
So let us, in this Harvest Season of 2025, step out of our comfort zone, suit up and get in the game. May we begin by sharing our story with those who will listen, or even those who do not know, yet they will listen. Then we can use our testimony as a gateway to ask if we can pray for someone, take them out for coffee, or share a book that inspired you (before recommending the Bible). If you have a bible on your desk at work, bring it up in ordinary conversation and keep planting those seeds....and do it with joy, enthusiasm, and compassion in your heart. People will read that before they care to know anything else from you.
May we be like this verse from Galatians 6:9, which says, "let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart". Amen
PRAYER: Lord, in the Name of Jesus, I pray, while it is still today, that You in Your infinite, mercy we thank You that You have called us to serve in an intentional way, as Your hands and feet of the Gospel, to take the Good News to the End of the World....starting with those in our streets, stores, work places, families, friends, churches and communities. Grant us boldness, courage and the correct approach and words to say, when that opportunity arises, so we can bring glory to Your Mighty and Precious Name, Jesus, amen.
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
INTRODUCING STUBBORN FAITH WITH ANGELIQUE CHASE
Angelique Chase is a daughter of the King (Jesus), actress, filmmaker and ministry leader. I love her Prayer Share cards and now she's a brand new podcaster.
Her "Stubborn Faith" affirmations of the Christian Faith, in this time of Revival, will encourage and stir you to excellence, if not drive you to the Bible and a closer walk with Jesus.
I will be posting each of her five episodes so far, in the next five days.
There will be more on this great woman of God, from here on out.
Click here to subscribe to her brand new channel on YouTube.
Sunday, September 14, 2025
AS FALL APPROACHES.........
The stunning beauty, smells, sounds, and sights of Autumn are a marvel to behold. It is more than just a bridge from the steamy days of summer and its associated activities, and the cold wintry nights. It should inspire us to be amazed at the God Who created the cycle of falling leaves, from trees of many colors. It should motivate songs and poems of praise and awe to the Creator for all this goodness,
While these days of some warmth and much refreshing cool lead to light jackets and even colorful scarves, the Word of the Lord comes to heart, mind, body, and spirit in such a flood that it overflows like a Niagara of rushing water over the edge. These days should drive us to our knees in search of the God Whose Name is praised in the Bible, for His great deeds in Eternity Past, to present and beyond.
This new Fall series will seek to bring out the beauty of His Word, in keeping with such excellence, to extol His deeds, in gratitude and love.
Psalm 19:1-4 (NASB) says, "The heavens tell of the glory of God; and their expanse declares the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard. Their line has gone out into all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them, He has placed a tent for the sun".
Have you ever wondered why the great rivers of the world, like the Mighty Mississippi, can keep flowing and flowing….into the Gulf? The Thames River in England flows directly into the North Sea. The great St. Lawrence River of Canada flows into the Gulf of St. Lawrence which then empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Snows come, and in Canada, especially, heavy snows come and go. They melt and flood their banks, yet the ocean is never full. The mysteries of life go on that way to the point that even the Book of Ecclesiastes mentions it.
This is the handiwork of the good Lord we serve. His mercies endures forever. His favor is for a lifetime and His love is overwhelming.
As we go through the approaching days of Fall, with its bright sunny days of crunching leaves underfoot, or the winds of November that come calling, may we call to mind, over and over – the awesome power, majesty and unfathomable creative Mind of the Creator, Who has given us breath.
Sunday, August 31, 2025
FAITH TO BEAR LAUNCHES IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS
grandfather. In the two decades I have known him, as a colleague and a man on a journey through mountains and valleys, of faith and hope.
Early in 2025, he mentioned that he felt called to write these beautiful Children's Books. After reading through his work, with its stunning graphics and content, which bring back childhood memories to any parent, from any age - from boomer to Gen Z. I highly recommend these books.
Ronald has since expanded into a ministry called Faith to Bear (FTB). Click here for this website.
To fully comprehend what led to all these stunningly lively graphics and now praise music and videos, which can be viewed on the FTB YouTube channel, I asked him a few questions to get a feel of the man, his ministry, and why he felt led to launch a full multimedia, almost blitz, as he did.
To get to the point, I asked four questions. Ron Bear responds as follows (see below). For the record, I recommend the Children's Books (Giggles, Gratitude and Growth in God) for your children and especially the Electronic Version. They will benefit tremendously from the links to FTB's Praise and Worship music, videos etc.
1-Why did you write the book?
In a world of judgment and condemnation, I found myself seeking truth and following paths that led to personal destruction. I cried out to GOD, declaring, "There is no Joy in my life! How do I experience Joy?"
GOD began guiding me to teachings that revealed Joy is not absent from my life, it has been buried by distorted emotions created by trauma -Physical and verbal assaults that caused me to feel unloved and even unlovable. I felt unworthy of Joy, Happiness and Love.
GOD asked, "What is your heart's desire?" I responded, 'I desire to be Happy, joyous, and Free.' I desire the abundant life Jesus spoke of. I want to be free from debt. I want my family restored, and I want to leave a legacy for my children and their children.
I want to create and share with others a message of Joy that will prevent young hearts from experiencing the traumatic experiences from addiction to escape and to guide veterans of psychic wars back from the pain of escape to a place of refuge in Joy.
2-To whom is the book written?
This book is written for young hearts to nurture Love in innocence and promote Joyful Hearts.
Also, this book is to provide a channel for the spirit of Joy to heal the already challenged hearts, as they share with their children, siblings, and friends.
3-Describe the content.
This book contains several coloring pages, activity pages, Scripture references, and blessings for each simple song inspired by "The Holy Bible," enhanced by vibrant graphics to spark artistic appreciation. It also includes links to energetic music and videos to invite dancing and create an immersive, Joyful experience.
4-What is your Goal/Mission
The mission of Faith to Bear Ministries is to encourage refuge in Joyful experiences and heal the emotional wounds from seeking escape.
We encourage people of all beliefs and levels of understanding to "Keep the Light KIND".....and to shine our light in a manner that attracts people to desire to be like you.
In this way we will experience restoration to a state of being One with GOD.
FAITH TO BEAR RESOURCES:
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Friday, June 13, 2025
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
THINK SERIES, PART 15: "ON BEING PRUDENT AND SHREWD"
That is a powerful statement that addresses the gullibility and the discernment of two types of people. We do not really have to look very far to observe this fact. Because most of modern humankind is bereft of Critical Thinking,
Many of us may remember the “Beanie Baby” craze of the 1990s. That five-inch-high stuffed toy created a market that rose up, made countless millions for those who knew how to market the allegedly exclusive ones and get them off their basement shelves to gullible buyers. Twenty years later, you and I can find boxes of them at garage or yard sales for 50 cents a pop. What does this have to do with thinking, by normally conservative and even discerning folks? Well, some of them THOUGHT they could make the big jackpot by selling the “Princess Diana” purple beanie in the plexiglass case.
This is just one simple, fun and harmless example, unless someone spent their entire social security check on $ 100s of dollars of Beanies, thinking they would pull in the bucks, within weeks and months, only to find out that another million people had the same idea. However, the goal of this series is not to go Dr. Phil on folks and pick on them with “what were you thinking”… about any decision where we follow the crowd. The goal is to develop and train, first in ourselves and then our children, grandchildren, and those whom we mentor, the value of prudent (as opposed to positive) thinking, Biblical thinking, and how to think critically.
The original biblical Hebrew word for “prudent” is “Arum”. It is a word which ranges in definition from being “shrewd, subtle, and prudent” to the almost opposite, as in cunning. Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:6, as He warned His disciples to be “as shrewd as serpents but as innocent as a dove”. Two things about this quote from the Greatest Life Coach Who ever lived:
Jesus is NOT saying that we are to be as deceptive as that snake, Satan. This is the sinless Son of God. What Jesus means is to be extremely discerning. That is, to know when to hold them, know when to fold them, as an old song goes.
Every intention of the word “prudent” in Proverbs 14:15 requires we are supposed to have, not just proper thought, but discernment, grounded in truth – objective truth. Objective truth is black and white. Either you believe or you do not. The Bible gives a powerful statement regarding atheists, where the good Book says, “the fool says in his heart, there is no God”. It takes more “faith” to NOT believe your eyes, your conscience, and the law of God written in the hearts of every single human ever born, than the faith it takes to be a believer in Jesus, as Lord. That is literally Objective truth.
There are also terms of Logic. When an atheist or an agnostic (i.e., an atheist who is a coward) makes a statement that there is no such thing as Absolute Truth, when we say that we believe in God, that non-believer has violated the terms of Logic by making an absolute statement. Therefore, under the terms of logic, we can, by all rights, dismiss their argument. Period.
To get to this point of Critical Thinking, one must have a strongly and exponentially growing measure of Biblical Wisdom. The first three Chapters of the Book of Proverbs will be a good place to start and read, over and over, until it sinks into your consciousness. I spent two weeks in Proverbs chapter 2 a while back, as I felt the tug of the Lord pulling me back more and more to those pages to embed those words in my soul. What emerged from that period, where I camped on Chapter 2, was a series called - "A Proverbs 2 Man". (CLICK HERE FOR VIDEOS).
We must be led by the Spirit to discern the wiles of this corrupt world, so that we can function, with an unction, in the Righteousness of God - in thought, in word and in deed. The Holy Spirit will guide us into the pathway of ALL Truth.
To be as shrewd as a serpent and innocent as doves, we must know the ways, teachings, and commands of God so that we will never sin. There is a line in the Lord’s Prayer where Jesus teaches us to pray, in the original language – “do not allow us to fall into temptation”. We have to be buffeted and surrounded by the strength that comes from God and His Word, so that we can spot a trap a mile off. We have to be in our right mind. We have to think. We have to think critically.
Sadly, too many Christians fall for the wiles of a seductive financial deal, woman (or man) or something that is too good to be true. When we have the ability, capacity, and the FREEDOM to RUN in the opposite direction. The Bible gives us clear direction to think critically so we do not ruin what is most precious to us and Him, our witness, testimony, reputation, and families. He has given us these beautiful and powerful words to embed in our consciousness that we can live in peace, joy, and contentment, all the days of our lives.
Proverbs 3:5-7 “: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil". Amen
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
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Saturday, April 26, 2025
THINK SERIES #14: THINK CRITICALLY - THE INTRO
Critical thinking is not what your critics (if you have any, of course, lol) think of us. It requires the capacity to do the following:
1. Look at an issue with the end in mind.
2. Identify what we need to do about it
3. Consider all the sides of what needs to be done to address said issue.
4. Consider the consequences of each action.
5. Consider who is going to be affected by any course of action
6. Take all that information and go to the Lord with it
7. Make the decision
We are born with the ability to think. The Cambridge dictionary definition is actually the simplest and most effective short definition of Critical Thinking. Cambridge defines it as “the process of thinking carefully about a subject or idea, without allowing feelings”.
As we already know, it is not something that is taught in the US education system, where feelings and other agendas trump the basics of reading, writing, and ‘arithmetic – the Three R’s (so to speak). It was something we hired a missionary almost two decades ago to teach our three kids as part of their education ,and it was a great lesson for me as well. This kind, gentle man, let’s call him John Smith Jones, was the epitome of kindness, patience, and grace.
How he taught Critical Thinking was a great example to me of how we should approach anything. Whether it is how we teach our kids the Bible or the tenets of our Christian Faith, there has to be a method that cries out for effectiveness. For many years, the fact that many Christian families lose their children to practical atheism by High School or College has bothered me until we figured out why – many young people do not connect the Bible stories they hear in Sunday School to real life, themselves, and the real Person of Jesus. When you add some parents living double lives or no life of righteousness at all, young people will walk from that kind of hypocrisy.
There is a relationship between Critical Thinking and the education of our kids in the Ways of our Lord. The Bible says in Psalm 139:17-18 the following: “How precious also are Your thoughts to me, Oh God! How vast is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I am awake, I am still with You”.
These are our Heavenly Father’s and Creator’s thoughts:
* They are Precious
* They are so many and far-reaching they cannot EVER be counted (think about the stars in the sky – can you count them?)
* They are permanent
* They are embedded in the beings, just like the Law of God or our consciences
* They are ever present, whether we access the most valuable treasures found in the Mind of Our God.
Please note also, in Verse 17, the amount of original exclamation marks! King David, who we know from Psalm 51 was indwelt by the Holy Spirit of God to write the Psalms, was excited that the very thoughts and Mind of Christ were with him!
Now, look at the thoughts we have. Check Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me o God and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts, and there if there be any hurtful way in me and lead me in the everlasting way”.
What kinds of thoughts do we have? Well, anxious ones with the capacity and potential to cause hurt to others and us”!
The human condition is right there in the Bible.
We are full of anxiety, worry, and stress from both real and imaginary enemies, and our way to blood pressure medication or worse.
We are prime candidates for depression, depression meds, and being super discouraged to the point of even doubting God.
All of this happens because we do not think Biblically, as we spelled out in the past 13 posts on the “THINK SERIES”, nor do we practice “Critical Thinking” in most of our daily lives.
Biblical Thinking was addressed first in this series since we must possess the foundation on which to operate successfully as a man or woman of God. Critical Thinking will take a look at each of the seven (7) critical steps listed above and the benefits therein.
We will use the following as our theme verse, for this exercise, from Proverbs 14:15, where the Bible says, “The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thoughts to his steps.”
Sunday, April 20, 2025
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
THINK" SERIES: PART 13 - "WORTHY OF ALL PRAISE"
For something to be considered “praiseworthy”, it follows logic that the object of praise, approval, giving value to, or even some sort of adulation or adoration – must be “worthy of all praise”.
The only Being in this world, where this can possibly fit, is Almighty God, the King of Heaven and Earth. Seeing that the word “praiseworthy” is actually a combination of words used by Paul here, in Philippians 4:8, that is – “praise” with the preposition “towards or upon”, it only follows that all our praise; all our gratitude; all our worship; all our thoughts need to be directed in this vertical relationship we have with our Heavenly Father, in Jesus’ Name.
Praise-worthiness explicitly implies a high view of God. It is said by many that what we think about God, at the highest level possible, determines our conduct, attitude, and respect or reverence for and to Him. If we have a high view of God, the humbler and more surrendered to His Sovereign Will we are. Conversely, a low view shows the carnal nature of mankind, where God is just an afterthought, even to so-called self-professed Christians. One of the best examples in life and in Scripture can be found in Isaiah Chapter 6. Read this amazing passage of the greatest of all Old Testament prophets – Isaiah, as he is allowed into the very Presence of the Holiest Being in the World – God the Father.
1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple. 2 Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3 And one cried to another and said: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!" 4 And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 So I said: "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." (Isaiah 6:1-5)
This incredible passage reveals the indescribable scene in Heaven when Isaiah realizes where he is. In verse 5, the prophet said “Woe is me! For I am undone because I am a man of unclean lips and I dwell amidst a people of unclean lips. For my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts”.
The vast majority of us will not have a similar experience on this side of Heaven. However we have the Holy Spirit, if we are born again, Who testifies to the same. But what Isaiah did can be best described as a realization of his own spiritual and moral poverty, and then the Highest View of God possible!
It is an amazing passage to read, be fired up about, and then praise God that:
- He draws us into His Presence when He saves us
- He lets us into the Kingdom – past, present, and eternity. This means that we are now joint heirs with Christ from Eternity Past to Eternity Future
- We will be tainted by this world, just like Isaiah in verse 5, while we are still in these corrupt times. We are saints who sometimes sin, but the Lord has cleansed us with the righteous fire from the altar of Heaven.
- The end of verse 5 shows the awesome reverence, adoration, worship...and more that Isaiah had for the good Lord. He acknowledged Who he had just seen.
Acknowledging and being in complete AWE of The Lord of Host, the King of the Universe, led Isaiah to volunteer to serve the Lord of his own free will! All God had to say was, “Whom shall We send”? Our Father is so gracious that even in this generous state, which no living human eyes could ever see, He left it up to the mere mortal Isaiah to willingly serve.
While the greatest worship towards God are things we know about- prayer, praise, reverence, abiding in His Word – a willing heart like Isaiah’s to serve, rounds that up very nicely.
There are 305 references to the word “praise” in the most literal of Bible translations. The Bible tells us the Lord INHABITS the praise of His people (Psalm 22:3). The meaning of this phrase exhibits the living embodiment of “Praise-worthy”.
That is, because of our high view of God Who knows each and every heart, when we praise, adore and worship Him with our lives -whether it is on Sunday mornings, Sunday or Wednesday in a corporate setting or 24/7/365 in our own daily lives, we have created a pure atmosphere where He can be present and active.
This is, verifiably, a most significant habit to develop, as an attribute of our Faith. When we have a discipline of awareness of "Praise-worthiness," it can have a tremendous impact on the spiritual and emotional aspect of our lives. Removing the focus from what may, or may not be the deficits in our lives and looking up to the One Who deserves all praise, honor and glory will:
- Remove self-pity from our thinking.
- Remove any discontent we have with our current situation and replace it with an attitude of gratitude.
- Rejoice in what is of prime importance. Our Lord, Savior and Creator is to Whom all praise belongs, so let us then, readjust our entire mindset towards this goalpost, because it is here, to which all praise belongs.
Father, in Jesus' Strong Name, thank You for giving us this direction in Your Holy Word that we may realize what is truly important and that is - keeping our eyes on You, our mind stayed on You and our worship as a lifestyle that will remain free from the stain of the world, the more we focus on Your Goodness, Glory and Power. Thank You for changing us, transforming us, and rescuing us, by the Life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the King of all Kings, in His Name we pray, amen.
Sunday, March 30, 2025
THINK" SERIES: PART 12 - "IF THERE IS ANY VIRTUE....."
Can an authentic, practicing Christian, live a virtuous life, full of every attribute called for in this incredible verse (Philippians 4:8), 24/7/365, that is – all the time? In the natural – it is extremely difficult. Led by the Spirit of Christ – we absolutely, 100% can do it. Jesus Himself prayed in John 17:15 “ I do not pray that You should take them out of the world but that You should keep them from the evil one”.
This section of the verse makes the statement “if there is any virtue”….and therefore, it begs the question: what really is virtue? The Biblical Greek word is “arete”. It means the following in modern English: uprightness; a gracious act; moral goodness (which we would expect it to be); excellence and has the sense of the highest level of moral excellence, personal qualities, and attributes. You get the picture.
In Galatians, the Bible gives us a big contrast between the evil attributes of this world (click here) and the Fruits of The Spirit of which each and every Christian should be a live and living example. Virtue is one of the foundational blocks that makes those fruits of the Spirit, shine Jesus’ shine!
Since virtue and integrity are closely parallel, they are both an adjective and a verb. They are almost synonymous. However, while these incredibly admirable qualities reflect the honesty, kindness, graciousness, transparency, and love that we have for God and man, a high degree of maintenance is required. The minute we let our individual guards down, we are in trouble. If there ever comes a time we take a break from actively praying for all those qualities in Phil 4:8 to not just remain in us, but continue to seek the Face of God daily through:
- Mediating, reading, and digging into His Word. While we all love and acknowledge the Psalms, as the official “Prayer Book of the Bible”, other Books of the Bible are extremely beneficial. Not just Proverbs, but Isaiah especially. The Book of Isaiah is so rich that it could be considered five different books. The rich history of the people of God and the Mighty Hand of God throughout, from the personal to the prophetic, could and should drive you and me to our knees.
- We also maintain a lifestyle full of virtue and integrity by, believe it or not, serving others. We need to make ourselves available for those who are younger than us, in both chronological years AND the Faith, to be the best example of the Lord, as we can. To that end, we should:
- Do random acts of kindness, love, and thoughtfulness. The vast majority of people do not send greeting cards or letters of encouragement. Therefore, why don’t you and I just continue being a living tradition of writing notes of faithful encouragement and hope to someone who needs it, for whatever reason? This is sure to buck them up, so they can know that when the chips are down, they have a friend who loves Jesus and talks with Him. I tell you what, boxes of Christian cards, for all occasions, can be purchased very cheaply at Hobby Lobby. One box, for $10, can last you six months to a year. The joy of a recipient of one of your encouragements would be priceless!
- Speak what is virtuous. There are countless Scriptures about the power of the tongue. The old adage "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me, is Fake News!" Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit". What comes out of our mouths is, for the most part (not always), what is in our hearts. Therefore, let us be resolved to think biblically, so we can think righteously and act honorably. There is a pattern or sequence to this kind of living.
- Study the example of Jesus. While we are more headstrong or easily flummoxed by petty things like Peter, when he denied Christ, we can also be like the same Peter of whom it was asked and said in Acts 4:13 "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus". There is no greater virtue than to be like King Jesus!
There is more to be said on this subject. However, these five exhortations are a handful enough to keep us busy for half a lifetime, if we would just become very intentional about accomplishing even 85% of them. In all the commands, statutes and precepts of the Bible, we have the most difficult time keeping even the very few critical ones, were it not for God's Grace and the Holy Spirit. So, may we be resolved to bear down on these five listed above - and excel in them....like a virtuoso!
QUOTE DU JOUR ON VIRTUE FROM CS. LEWIS:
"Christianity seems at first to be all about morality, all about duties and rules and guilt and virtue, yet it leads you on, out of all that, into something beyond. One has a glimpse of a country where they do not talk of those things, except perhaps as a joke. Every one there is filled full with what we should call goodness as a mirror is filled with light. But they do not call it goodness. They do not call it anything. They are not thinking of it. They are too busy looking at the source from which it comes"
Heavenly Father, thank You in the Mighty Name of Jesus, for the simple tools, resources and guidance, which You have given, so that we may live honorable lives - upright in the sight of God and men, so that "if there is any virtue", may it be found in us. Amen.
Thursday, March 27, 2025
THINK" SERIES: PART 11 - "WHATEVER IS NOBLE OR OF GOOD REPORT"
The world views "nobility" as royalty. The British royal family, or some European elites, are regarded as the "standard" in terms of class, wealth, and nobility. This is, of course, a product of centuries of class divisions, and in modern times, an obsession of the media and culture.
Nobility means something else to God. In our passage above from Philippians 4:8, the word "NOBLE" (or 'of good report') is an adjective with quite a punch. The original Biblical Greek is "euphémos". In this context, euphemos means of good report, reputable and praiseworthy (Strongs 2163).
If we look across the spectrum in public life, not many can fulfill the demands of these attributes. They are attributes. The original meaning of the English words found in this verse (Phil. 4:8) for "meditate or think on these things" imply action. The Biblical Greek word is "logizomai" which means reckon, conclude, decide, reason and more.....all verbs of action. We also get the word "logic" from this Bible word.
The Bible is not just true, inspiring, encouraging and more, but it inspires logic, thought, and positive action. I have a few friends who teach character development. One of them has made a living out of it, by developing an international ministry. Why is so much of the world, especially in certain areas of the United States, the Far East, and some developing countries, captivated by this concept of Nobility in thought, word, and deed?
Why? Because it is an attractive quality and leads only to good things - for families, churches, communities and business. People of Noble Character (which is the true meaning of GOOD REPORT) are:
- Pleasant to be around
- Dignified and courageous, yet as gentle as a lamb.
- Always willing to lend a helping hand of love, friendship and cheerful giving
- Genuinely generous with their time and resources
- Strong and humble. But do not mistake their humility and strength under control as a weakness. What they are exhibiting is the "meekness" which our Lord and Savior Jesus exhibited.
- Willing to mentor, share with, or instruct others in the paths which they can follow to become better-engaged and grounded children of God.
There are many more, but these main qualities of Noble Character, inspired by Godly and a clean mind focused on making the main thing, the main thing, will not just glorify God through our actions, but they will serve to honor Him by showing His people as ones of people of truly "good report".
As stated many times before, our actions are the results of our thoughts. Think on these pure and noble things, and we will stand before God and man, blameless and shining the Truth of His Gospel. Amen
Dear Father, in the Mighty Name of Jesus, help us to seal these truths in our minds: the Truths to the point where if any one of them is not yet second nature, that by the cleansing Blood of Jesus and the washing of Your Holy Word, each attributes or item listed in Philippians 4:8 will become to us, an integral part of our lives, in thought, word and deed, that we may glorify You and become living testimonies to the Glory of God, before God and man, in Jesus' Strong Name, amen.
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Monday, February 17, 2025
Sunday, February 16, 2025
THINK" SERIES: PART 10 - "WHATEVER IS LOVELY"
THINK BIBLICALLY - #6
" Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)
There is nothing more beautiful in this world than God's creation. From the tiniest ant, as annoying to the picnic basket as ants can be, to the red cardinal that buzzes your kitchen window and then flies around the backyard. From the faithful little yapper Schnauzer on your couch to the goldfish that swims around your aquarium. The Mighty Hand of God is evident everywhere - from the complexities of the human body to the sunset which seems to be completely different every evening...regardless of the opinions of mortal men, the handiwork of the Master Artist and Creator is evident. The Bible tells us so in Romans 1:20a "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power".
In the Arizona desert and in others where cacti live, there is a rare flower called the Cereus. This stunning and fragrant flower only blooms late at night. Read more about the Cereus flower here. This video shows the late-night blooming process in a controlled greenhouse environment. However there most regular sightings are done from the desert itself.
The ability of our minds, guided by a clear eye and spirit, to capture the beauty and majesty of Creation should inspire us to lift our entire outlook, thinking and perspective to the higher plane.
Be like King David who wrote in Psalm 8:3-4 "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him"?
Whenever we are down and depressed and/or tempted to lapse into pitiful or stinking thinking, immediately go outside in your garden and watch the bees gathering wild honey in your pumpkin patch or the squirrel gathering nuts. Or grab your bible and open to the book of Psalms and worship the one True God of Heaven, Who made us a little lower than the angels, that we may magnify and adore His precious and holy Name. All around us, are the evidences of lovely, pleasant, and acceptable things and even people, of whom the Lord will absolutely approve. There is absolutely no reason to live in a state of hopelessness. Hope is palpable and literally within reach. Take THAT thought captive.
Father in Jesus' Strong Name may Your Name be magnified, glorified and praised throughout the earth. Holy is Your Name. All power and glory belongs to You. You told us in Philippians 4:8 to think on whatever things are lovely, pleasant, wonderful and pleasing to both You and mankind. More than that Lord when we consider the complexities of the human body and the Mind that created every living cell, fiber and muscle in us, how can we not think of lovely, stunning thoughts of You, oh Great God of Heaven. May our puny little lives be acceptable unto Thee and may our worship, made from repentant and obedient hearts bring glory to You, in all that we do, in Jesus' Strong Name. Amen.
Friday, January 31, 2025
THINK" SERIES: PART 9 - "WHATEVER IS PURE"
THINK BIBLICALLY - #5
For decades in America, Ivory Soap was considered the purest soap in the market, for sale to anyone. Of course, it was not actually 100% pure. There is no such thing. Ivory was sold as 99 44/100% pure. Today, organic and homemade soaps lack any chemical impurities and may claim the same - pure.
The Scriptural exhortation in our key verse - Phil. 4:8 - is even more intensely pure than the most natural soap which can make the physical clean. The Biblical Greek word for "pure" is hagios which has a distinctive meaning. It is not just to be free from sin, impure thoughts and conduct, or just plain innocent, but to be free from defilement. You and I may think we do not defile God or ourselves. So what does that even mean?
Actually, Jesus Himself told us! He says in Matthew Chapter 15. He says two important things about what defiles a man (person). In Verse 11, Jesus says "Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.”
Even if people say the first thing that comes to their heads, they will still have to briefly consider that thought. In verse 15, Jesus is talking about a thought that is NOT good, which will defile the person.
Then, a few verses later, He got even more specific and scary. Scary in the sense of this: we had better pay attention to our thoughts, even if we consider ourselves above the fray and free from all evil. Jesus says in Verses 18-20a "Those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man."
But there is more to it than that. Not everyone walks around with the thoughts that Jesus describes above. Maybe at one time, we violated every one of those sins. But there are thoughts that we cannot control that invade our minds at the most inopportune time, especially when we are praying!
Many of us prayer warriors remember this one - we would be deep in prayer and boom! Out of the blue, a completely unrelated worldly thought comes across our minds and threatens to almost disconnect our conversation with our Heavenly Father. We do have the power within us, due to being born-again and indwelled with the Spirit of Christ, to cast that thought out and get back on track!
There is no Christian who ever lived, who has never had that happen to them in prayer. So keep control of the narrative. Stay in the Scriptures. The evil one, the devil and accuser of the brethren's job is to take our joy, our journey with Jesus and the fact that we are joint heirs with Christ - away from us.
Keep your mind on Christ. Keep praying to Him and staying away from disputes, indiscretions and even disgusting people. Focus on the good of anything - food, nature, your co-workers, your family, God! The more you fellowship with the good, the easier it is to maintain a good, clean heart and one that will be open to what the Lord is doing today in your life. Amen
Father in the Mighty Name of Jesus, I thank You that through it all, you were with us even in the depths of our depravity. Even in our depraved thoughts, words, and deeds. But You saved us. You pulled us out of the muck and the mire and put a new song in our hearts. A hymn of praise to our God - You, oh Lord, our Heavenly Father and King Jesus the Savior. Thank You again, Lord, and keep working in us, to make us more like You, in Spirit and in Truth, in Jesus' Strong Name amen.
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