God can do anything. “Anything God has ever done, He can do now. Anything God has ever done anywhere, He can do here.Anything God has ever done for anyone, He can do for you.” – A.W. Tozer
Author: JT Hutts
mirror mirror on the wall
Mirrors reflect an image. Sometimes not always the image you want to see.
I suppose for centuries people have looked at themselves in reflective surfaces from the pond to a windowpane. Also, I suppose those same people have been disappointed with what they saw. Almost every time I look into the mirror I see something I do not like—physical flaws, mental abnormalities, and spiritual deficiency—all tainted by sin.
I am what I reflect. If I look at the mirror thinking, “Who is the fairest of them all” and all I see is myself…my existence is full of pride.
Not everyone sees himself or herself. Many see another person in that mirror. Maybe the dad whom they adore or hate, a celebrity they admire or seen in the last issue of Cosmo, or an imagined person one substitute the real thing. The image in the mirror is tainted by what they want to be and by what they are not. Their image is full of envy, jealousy.
Both of these mirrored images still leave a man empty and unsatisfied. Each time they rush back to the mirrored glass hoping for something more beautiful, but leave more depressed.
In Genesis 1:26-27 God declares that He made man in His own image. No wonder man is so empty and unsatisfied with his or her reflection because they are not reflecting the very image they were created to be and created to see.
When I stand in front of the mirror I shouldn’t see me, you or anybody else, but the very Creator of the universe.
I am the image of God in flesh and bones. I can manifest His dominion as I live in the freeing reality that I am His image. I do not have to cosmetically beautify myself or try to be someone I am not, but I must seek to shine the image of my God.
James 1:22-25 “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.
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sold out
Just the other day I was shopping at Wal-Mart specifically looking for some IBC Root Beer. I love that stuff! Right out of the bottle…it’s the greatest! I hope to believe there will be IBC in heaven someday (the Inspired Beverage of Christians)! Anyway… they were sold out. Can you believe that? My day went straight down the toilet bowl.
Why does something sell-out? First, something tends to sells-out because it is a popular item. I have to have the “in” toy at Christmas (Tickle Me Elmo) because “everyone has one”. It is popular and I will be popular for having it. Second, it is a great deal. Girls fall for this one all the time. Buy 3 shirts get a free lip balm. I have a grandma who is obsessed with QVC because they have such great deals. Third, it is needed. I am sure if we were experiencing the black plague we would need the medicine that would cure. Fourth, it is over advertised. One night a few weeks back I got really sick and could not sleep so I put the TV on. Within 30 minutes I was ready to call and order my Chia Pet, Hand-Clapper and Total Gym. I was sold-out to the good advertisements.
How else does someone or something sell out? Well, for many of the same reasons above. I am a Christian therefore I am sold-out to Christ. Being sold-out to Christ has its costs, commitment and control over my life. That’s what it means to be sold out to someone or something. We will look at each of these statements below by looking at the Scriptural example.
SELLING OUT FOR CHRIST HAS A COST
Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”
“Why do you ask Me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments.”
“Which ones?” the man inquired.
Jesus replied, ” `Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,’ and `love your neighbor as yourself.’ “
“All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”
Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.”
When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Mt.19:16-22 (the Rich Young Ruler who had everything)
SELLING OUT FOR CHRIST TAKES A COMMITMENT
When Jesus saw the crowd around Him, He gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake. Then a teacher of the law came to Him and said, “Teacher, I will follow Youwherever You go.”
Jesus replied, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” (Jesus was a mover, looking for the movers)
Another disciple said to him, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.”
But Jesus told him, “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”
Then He got into the boat and His disciples followed Him. Mt.8:18-23
SELLING OUT FOR CHRIST PUTS CHRIST IN CONTROL
As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed Him. Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father andfollowed Him. Mt.4:18-22
Why should someone Sell-Out to Christ? First, He is a popular item, His disciples followed Him to His death and beyond. Second, He is a great deal, those who believe in Him have Eternal Life. Third, you need Him. Like Medicine heals physical sickness, Christ wants to heal your spiritual sickness. Finally, He is over advertised. Christians have sacrificed their lives for Him, to get His message out so others would hear and believe. Are you sold out?
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operatic
Last night, I went to my first ever opera. I know…I even surprised myself! Who would have thunk! And what turned out to be a losing bet, turned out to be a winning event. Not only did I enjoy an adventurous trek with good friends I became cultured in the fine arts. The opera was funny (thhhweetest Anna!), but above all the leading lady was a shining star. I’m proud to know her! I’m not sure I will ever go to an opera again, but I can at least say that I sat through one and lived. I wouldn’t say I am an Opera-Addict, but…shhh…don’t tell anyone…I actually enjoyed it!
Things I sadly learned about myself yesterday, with a little help from my friends…
- I am going bald and need Rogaine.
- I really do have a noticeably big nose (now my complex is gi-normis!)
- I am like big strong oak tree that stands alone in the middle of a barren cornfield.
- Youngin’ is a derogatory term.
(Sigh) Not funny!
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bambi
On Thursday night I was driving to some friends. On the way out frolicked a little deer onto the road. It was as if my car was a deer magnet! It hit my car hood and became instant venison before I could even slam on my breaks or swerve. Sorry all you animal lovers. So now I have a deer shaped dent on my car hood.
Some say I should get a new car…ha! Get rid of that station wagon are you crazy-sick? I just think this might be a good opportunity to pimp my ride! Yeah, maybe I’ll get a new hood with some exhaust scoops…and then some spinners for my dubs or subs with some kickin’ bass. Okay, maybe not!?
Anyone up for some deer jerky?
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snow day(s)
It snowed about 17 inches in Lafayette the past couple of days. It has been great to see a good dumping of the white stuff. I finally got to bust out the snow blower!
On Tuesday, I went sledding with Caleb and Tiffany. Caleb (a four horseman) and I have known each other since middle school. It was good to catch up and laugh, while making new memories. The sledding was fun-tastic, but as we came to and from Murdock we noticed that nobody was out on the streets. It was kind of eerie! Later that evening when we got home we realized the State Patrol office had declared a county snow emergency. We laughed. Growing up in Wisconsin this was nothing. We would still have to go to school the next day. No snow days for the northerners!
So in honor of my southern, Indiana-folk, I took a few snow days off this week. Ahhh, it was good to kick back and enjoy a seat on my couch.
Today, I am sitting in my office with a little box heater to keep me warm. The furnace blew a fuse. I think I will go home early and do some reading from there…where it’s warmer.
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cat and dog theology
Growing up I had a cat named Solomon. He was mentally challenged, not from birth, but later in life because a car hit him. He had no teeth, drooled all the time and had to eat soft food the rest of its poor life. Before Solomon’s incident he was like any ordinary cat…all about himself.
Also, I had two dogs. Budo (Eskimo for ‘Beauty of the North’) a blue-eyed husky-cocker spaniel mixture that was the fieriest dog you have ever met. I have scares to this day from that beast chopping into me. Needles to say we got rid of Budo because he didnt live up to his name.
Shadow, our second dog was the most loveable golden retriever you had ever met. It was all about you….pleasing you, playing with you were her favorite things to do.
There is a joke about cats and dogs that conveys their differences perfectly. A dog says, ‘You pet me, you feed me, you shelter me, you love me, you must be God.’ A cat says, ‘You pet me, you feed me, you shelter me, you love me, I must be God. [Note: cat and dog diaries below]
Using this metaphor in the Christian life dog theology says “Lord, You love me, You bless me abundantly, You gave Your life for me, You must be God.” Whereas cat theology says, “Lord, You love me, You bless me abundantly, You gave Your life for me, I must be God.”
Our understanding of how we relate to God may not be wrong, but it may be incomplete. The God-given traits of cats (‘you exist to serve me’) and dogs (‘I exist to serve you’) can be similar to certain theological attitudes held by many Christians. In our personal theologies, some attitudes may draw us closer to God, and others can also pull us away from Him.
These thoughts are not entirely original. They came from a book I read called Cat and Dog Theology. Good read, and it’s short.
Justin Hutts [2.8.07]
“Excerpts from a Dog’s Diary*
8:00 am – Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am – A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am – A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am – Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm – Lunch! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm – Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm – Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm – Milk bones! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm – Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm – Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
11:00 pm – Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!
* Excerpts from a Cat’s Diary*
Day 983 of my captivity.
My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength. The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.
Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a “good little hunter” I am. Jerks!
There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of “allergies.” I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.
Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow — but at the top of the stairs.
I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released – and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded. The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now…
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The History of Huttsinski
3 generations ago my Polish Great Dziadzia (Gramps) and Babcia (Grandma) stepped off the boat from Poland into a new land. They took the train and settled in Milwaukee because it looked a lot like home (Warsaw area), but had a hopeful future because of the prosperous factory jobs.
At Ellis Island they were forced to change their names from Hutzinski to Hutts. I have grown to be proud of my Polish (and German) roots. I still remember spending time with Babcia Stella and my German great-grandma Alice. They would tell wonderful stories about life in another world.JUSTIN
You know you’re Polish-American if..
-You come from Chicago, Buffalo, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Hamtramck, or Milwaukee.
-There is a large church called “Saint Alphonsis’,” “Saint Hedwig’s,” or “Saint Casimir’s” within one block of your childhood home.
–Your knowledge of the Polish language is limited to ‘quirky’ words (e.g., dupa, gowno, gatki, etc), names for food (e.g., pierogi, kapusta, etc), and toasts (e.g., na zdrowie, sto lat, etc).
–You occasionally add the suffix “-ski” to English words for no apparent reason (e.g., “I’m gonna go put the car-ski in the garage-ski”).
–You call your grandma “babcia” or “busia” and your grandpa “dziadzia.”
-You know how to dance the polka, but you only do it at weddings.
-You have one grandma that wears a babushka and galoshes every single day of the year and another grandma that wears a lot of chintzy jewelry and too much make-up.
-You have a grandma who occasionally kills animals and uses every single part of their carcasses to make sausages, soups, dumplings, etc.
–You know more Polish jokes than all of your non
-Polish friends combined.
–You have at least one uncle named “Stan,” “Stas,” “Casey” “Al,” or “Joe.”
–You have at least one relative who works, or used to work, in a steel mill.
–Your relatives exhibit fanatical devotion to local sports teams (e.g., Packers, Badgers, etc.)
–Your grandma has a shrine in her broom closet complete with votive candles and a picture of the “Black Madonna of Czestochowa.”
–Your parents have at least one crucifix or religious picture mounted on a wall in their house with palms tucked behind it.
-Your grandpa and other older men in the family habitually kiss women’s hands.
-You regularly attend Friday fish fries, harvest festivals, parish carnivals, and/or bingo.
–You like to put sour cream and horseradish on everything you eat.
–Your family likes to play card games like hearts and sheep’s-head, and this often culminates in full-scale brawls.
–You always prefer rye bread to white or wheat.
–Your dad has forced you to eat horseradish, claiming that it will “put hair on your chest” (even if you’re a female!).
-People in your family have their wedding receptions at places called “Polish Legion Hall,” “Sacred Heart Center,” etc.
–You know the words to “Sto Lat” and sing it at birthday parties.
-You’ve waited in line at a church or bakery to buy pierogi…. we make our own pierogi!
–Words like kiszka, kielbasa, and kolaczki actually mean something to you.
–You know the difference between Czechs, Slovaks, and Slovenes, and you think they’re all inferior to Poles despite the numerous glaring similarities.–You actually know who Kosciusko and Pulaski are, and why they’re important.
–You mention Nicholas Copernicus, Frederic Chopin, or Marie Curie (no, she’s not French) whenever people accuse Poles of being stupid.
-You have at least one relative who plays the accordion.
–You’re either completely overdressed or completely underdressed for every occasion.
-[If you’re a woman], you wear make-up at all times – even if it’s 90 degrees outside and you’re 88 years old.
–You make or are forced to listen to unnecessary speeches before proceeding with any group event.
–You like corny expressions, puns, and/or stupid, infantile jokes.
-You have a potato-shaped face, a huge dupa, and/or a ‘Polish nose.’
–[If you’re a male], you’re either as hairy as an ape or as hairless as a baby gerbil.
-[If you’re a male], you have a mammoth gut and legs as thin as sticks.
-[If you’re an older male], you have an exceptionally large, Stalin-esque mustache and/or an affinity for gaudy jewelry (e.g., pinkie rings, ‘miraculous’ medals, etc).
–Your family bickers constantly.-You have at least one bar in your house – usually in the basement.
-Your front yard is filled with lawn ornaments – (e.g., pink flamingos, jockey, Mary in the half shell, etc.)
-You have relatives who are priests and nuns.
–You collect “prayer cards” from funerals.
-You add a possessive “apostrophe s” to the name of EVERY business (e.g., Burger King’s, Blockbuster’s, etc).
–You or someone in your family owns at least one beat up, highly outdated Dodge (e.g., Aries, Aspen, Dart, Shadow, etc) or Plymouth (e.g., Acclaim, Reliant, Sundance, Volare, etc).
-Your family owns a deli, bakery, sports bar, or funeral parlor (you know, to serve all the people who eat sausage and kolaczki!).
–You’re haven’t been a practicing Catholic for years but everyone in your family insists that it’s “just a phase.”
–You generally talk too much.
-You listen to polka music and other “ethnic programming” on the radio.
–You cross yourself whenever you are shocked or disgusted.
–You honestly believe that Poles are the brightest, most beautiful people in the whole world.
–People often have trouble pronouncing your last name.
-You know that “head cheese” isn’t really cheese.
–You like, or know people who like, pickled pig’s feet and raw herrings in sour cream.
-Your family is so loyal that even a second cousin would take a bullet for you.
–You typically insist on doing simple, routine tasks in the most difficult, time-consuming manner possible.
–You always point out that names ending in “-sky” are Russian, not Polish.
–You make fun of everything you see on TV, but this doesn’t stop you from watching it for 8 hours straight every night.
–Your family has 7 or 8 meals on major holidays and they always bake way too many desserts!
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The Last Christian
A samurai was a warrior, protector and servant to the emperor of the Japanese kingdom. They spent 1200 years perfecting their art. Today, the samurai is no more. They are have become extinct. The modern world with its fine industrialization, Western protestylization and new warfare tactics all killed the samurai.
Samurai were thought to be savages by their enemies. In fact, they were more dignified than most of their enemies. Their entire lives they trained perfecting their warfare skills. They purposed to keep their warfare as honorable as possible by extending forgiveness and respect to their enemies. Christians have a lot in common with the Samurai. We are engaged in warfare everyday with a savage enemy. We are to seek to perfect the art of serving my King. In the mist of spiritual battle we are trained to stand strong, respect our enemies and extend forgiveness to those that wrong us. What if you were the last Christian? What would the world say about you? Would the legacy, dignity and reputation of the Christian live on long after you were gone? Would they say that you were marked by your service for the King of kings? I am the protector of the Truth. I am a warrior for God. I am a servant to the King.Share this:
the wobbly table
Isn’t annoying to sit down at a table that has a wobble? I am sitting at a table that has the kind of wobble that teeters back and forth when you lean on it. Err. There should really be a law against these tables.
I suppose the only solution to the problem of a wobbly table is to saw the other 3 legs shorter to match the short one. Stink, I don’t have a saw! All considering the table is owned by a restaurant sawing the legs would be a bad idea. I wouldn’t want to cause a scene anyways. I’m not going to move either because that would just pass the problem onto another innocent bystander.
Sometimes I feel like a wobbly table. Teetering back and forth between my desires and God desires. When I cave into my desires it causes weaknesses and unbalance in my life that God never meant there to be if only I would obey Him. So how do I stop the wobbling? Answer: God’s Word, it is the de-wobble-izer. God’s Word is like a napkin under the short leg that gives strength and balance to the table.
Before I left I put a napkin under the short leg. It fixed the problem. I wish I would have done this earlier.
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recharged
Today, after basketball practice, I stopped at Wal-Mart to do a little shopping. It was just another normal day out and about. So I got what I needed, paid, and thanked the tired lady who checked me out. I unloaded the bags into the car and turned the key…nothing.
“Stupid head!” I yelled, “I left the LIGHTS on!”
I don’t know why I drive with the lights on during the day. A habit, I guess. Well, I waited and waited for someone to help me. With jumper cables in my hands every passing person just gazed at the sorry fellow, thankful they were not having the kind of moment I was.
With my pride defeated I made the embarrassing call to ask someone for help. Now, just the week before I locked my keys in the car…I swear, I am going nuts…no comments, please. Thanks to a godly family my car received a recharge.
Yeah, it’s a normal day in my life, but it reminded me of a valuable lesson: SOMETIMES WE ALL NEED HELP WITH RECHARGING.
On Sundays we come to worship the Lord together. Some come for the fellowship with friends and family they love, some come for the music or the message, but most come to be recharged.
It is difficult to shine our lights for Christ all week. In fact, it can be draining. When we are stranded out in the parking lots of our lives there are not many to help. Yet as we gather together on “day one”, our Sabbath, we can be refreshed, refueled and recharged by His great grace.
Thanks God for the good lesson in an everyday event. I am recharged.
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puddle water
I was reminded today about the Moses wandering in the Wilderness. The Israelites were traveling out of the Desert of Sin and set camp. They complained to Moses that they were thirsty.
“GIVE US A DRINK, OR WE WILL DIE,” they yelled.
Moses was about to be stoned by these demanding people. In his time of need he went to God for help. And God answered, “Walk on ahead of the people. Take with you some of the elders of Israel and take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go. I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.” So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel” (Exodus 17:1-6).
How miraculous? God supplied. There is an amazing correlation between this story and Jesus Christ. Jesus is also referred to as the Rock. In John 7, He tells a crowd “Come to me all you who are thirsty!” And in John 4, He tells the woman at the well, “I will give you something that will never make you thirst”.
How true? Jesus can satisfy all our needs.
How many times do I satisfy my taste buds with things that quench my thirsty for a little while, but just leave me thirstier?
“Nothing will supply the needs, and satisfy the desires of a soul, but water out of this rock Jesus Christ, this fountain opened. The pleasures of sense are puddle-water; spiritual delights are rock water, so pure, so clear, and so refreshing — rivers of pleasure” (Matthew Henry).
I had a friend tell me a story about when he and his wife were walking around the block just after it rained. The road was filled with dirty puddles. A car zoomed by and gave them a very BIG splash. It wasn’t funny at the moment because they could taste the water and it did not taste good. They eventually got sick. They are okay today, but the story helps me bring color to this quote. Personal pleasures are like that puddle water…gross and will eventually make you sick. This water, which Christ supplies, is just the opposite. It purifies, cleans and actually satisfies ones thirst. This water that Christ offers is what I want more of…to flush out this dirty water that’s settled into my system way too long.
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pet peeves
Pet Peeves
Everyone has them. Pet peeves are those things that have grown to annoy the snot out of you. Snot might be one of your pet peeves. For others it may be: flushing for someone who didn’t do the courtesy ahead of you, waiting in line at the store, biting nails, bad grammar, etc.
I have two primary pet peeves that drive me nuts:
1. People who eat with their mouth open. For goodness sake, I don’t want to see your dinner…let alone hear how it sounds as you chomp-chomp-chomp.
2. Complainers. It almost seems like an oxymoron to be a Cranky Christians. I have one word for whiners. And everybody says, WHAA! Let’s call 911 for the Whaa-ambulence! Do you want a Whaamburger with those French Cries? And the classic, do you want some cheese with that whine?
It may seem like I am bitter about people who complain (or interpret the facts as them see them). I am not. The other day I received a compliment from an ol’ lady at the church who said, “You are nice young man.” Usually, I would ignore such a comment, but this day I was proud to wear the badge of niceness.
This reminded me of a quote I had just read again from C.S. Lewis who said,
“…if you are a poor creature—poisoned by a wretched upbringing in some house full of vulgar jealousies and senseless quarrels, nagged day in and day out by an inferiority complex that makes you snap at your best friends—do not despair. He (God) knows all about it. You are one of the poor whom He has blessed. He knows what a wretched machine you are trying to drive. Keep on. Do what you can. One day (perhaps in another world, but perhaps far sooner than that) He will fling it upon the scrap-heap and give you a new one. And then you may astonish us all—not least yourself: for you have learned your driving in a hard school. (Some of the last will be first and some of the first will be last).” (215, Mere Christianity; Nice People or new Men)
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I am Resolved
The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards
(1722-1723)
Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God’s help, I do humbly entreat him by his grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to his will, for Christ’s sake.
Remember to read over these Resolutions once a week.
1. Resolved, that I will do whatsoever I think to be most to God’s glory, and my own good, profit and pleasure, in the whole of my duration, without any consideration of the time, whether now, or never so many myriad’s of ages hence. Resolved to do whatever I think to be my duty and most for the good and advantage of mankind in general. Resolved to do this, whatever difficulties I meet with, how many and how great soever.
2. Resolved, to be continually endeavoring to find out some new invention and contrivance to promote the aforementioned things.
3. Resolved, if ever I shall fall and grow dull, so as to neglect to keep any part of these Resolutions, to repent of all I can remember, when I come to myself again.
4. Resolved, never to do any manner of thing, whether in soul or body, less or more, but what tends to the glory of God; nor be, nor suffer it, if I can avoid it.
5. Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can.
6. Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.
7. Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life.
8. Resolved, to act, in all respects, both speaking and doing, as if nobody had been so vile as I, and as if I had committed the same sins, or had the same infirmities or failings as others; and that I will let the knowledge of their failings promote nothing but shame in myself, and prove only an occasion of my confessing my own sins and misery to God.
9. Resolved, to think much on all occasions of my own dying, and of the common circumstances which attend death.
10. Resolved, when I feel pain, to think of the pains of martyrdom, and of hell.
11. Resolved, when I think of any theorem in divinity to be solved, immediately to do what I can towards solving it, if circumstances don’t hinder.
12. Resolved, if I take delight in it as a gratification of pride, or vanity, or on any such account, immediately to throw it by.
13. Resolved, to be endeavoring to find out fit objects of charity and liberality.
14. Resolved, never to do anything out of revenge.
15. Resolved, never to suffer the least motions of anger to irrational beings.
16. Resolved, never to speak evil of anyone, so that it shall tend to his dishonor, more or less, upon no account except for some real good.
17. Resolved, that I will live so as I shall wish I had done when I come to die.
18. Resolved, to live so at all times, as I think is best in my devout frames, and when I have clearest notions of things of the gospel, and another world.
19. Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if I expected it would not be above an hour, before I should hear the last trump.
20. Resolved, to maintain the strictest temperance in eating and drinking.
21. Resolved, never to do anything, which if I should see in another, I should count a just occasion to despise him for, or to think any way the more meanly of him.
(Resolutions 1 through 21 written in on setting in New Haven in 1722)
22. Resolved, to endeavor to obtain for myself as much happiness, in the other world, as I possibly can, with all the power; might, vigor, and vehemence, yea violence, I am capable of, or can bring myself to exert, in any way that can be thought of.
23. Resolved, frequently to take some deliberate action, which seems most unlikely to be done, for the glory of God, and trace it back to the original intention, designs and ends of it; and if I find it not to be for God’s glory, to repute it as a breach of the 4th Resolution.
24. Resolved, whenever I do any conspicuously evil action, to trace it back, till I come to the original cause; and then both carefully endeavor to do so no more, and to fight and pray with all my might against the original of it.
25. Resolved, to examine carefully, and constantly, what that one thing in me is, which causes me in the least to doubt of the love of God; and to direct all my forces against it.
26. Resolved, to east away such things, as I find do abate my assurance.
27. Resolved, never willfully to omit anything, except the omission be for the glory of God; and frequently to examine my omissions.
28. Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.
29. Resolved, never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession, which I cannot hope God will accept.
30. Resolved, to strive to my utmost every week to be brought higher in religion, and to a higher exercise of grace, than I was the week before.
31. Resolved, never to say anything at all against anybody, but when it is
perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honor, and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility, and sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the golden rule; often, when I have said anything against anyone, to bring it to, and try it strictly by the test of this Resolution.
32. Resolved, to be strictly and firmly faithful to my trust, that that in Prov. 20:6, “A faithful man who can find?” may not be partly fulfilled in me.
33. Resolved, always to do what I can towards making, maintaining, establishing and preserving peace, when it can be without over-balancing detriment in other respects. Dec.26, 1722.
34. Resolved, in narration’s never to speak anything but the pure and simple verity.
35. Resolved, whenever I so much question whether I have done my duty, as that my quiet and calm is thereby disturbed, to set it down, and also how the question was resolved. Dec. 18, 1722.
36. Resolved, never to speak evil of any, except I have some particular good call for it. Dec. 19, 1722.
37. Resolved, to inquire every night, as I am going to bed, wherein I have been negligent, what sin I have committed, and wherein I have denied myself: also at the end of every week, month and year. Dec.22 and 26, 1722.
38. Resolved, never to speak anything that is ridiculous, sportive, or matter of laughter on the Lord’s day. Sabbath evening, Dec. 23, 1722.
39. Resolved, never to do anything that I so much question the lawfulness of, as that I intend, at the same time, to consider and examine afterwards, whether it be lawful or no; except I as much question the lawfulness of the omission.
40. Resolved, to inquire every night, before I go to bed, whether I have acted in the best way I possibly could, with respect to eating and drinking. Jan. 7, 1723.
41. Resolved, to ask myself at the end of every day, week, month and year, wherein I could possibly in any respect have done better. Jan. 11, 1723.
42. Resolved, frequently to renew the dedication of myself to God, which was made at my baptism; which I solemnly renewed, when I was received into the communion of the church; and which I have solemnly re-made this twelfth day of January, 1722-23.
43. Resolved, never henceforward, till I die, to act as if I were any way my own, but entirely and altogether God’s, agreeable to what is to be found in Saturday, January 12. Jan.12, 1723.
44- Resolved, that no other end but religion, shall have any influence at all on any of my actions; and that no action shall be, in the least circumstance, any otherwise than the religious end will carry it. Jan.12, 1723.
45. Resolved, never to allow any pleasure or grief, joy or sorrow, nor any affection at all, nor any degree of affection, nor any circumstance relating to it, but what helps religion. Jan.12 and 13.1723.
46. Resolved, never to allow the least measure of any fretting uneasiness at my father or mother. Resolved to suffer no effects of it, so much as in the least alteration of speech, or motion of my eve: and to be especially careful of it, with respect to any of our family.
47. Resolved, to endeavor to my utmost to deny whatever is not most agreeable to a good, and universally sweet and benevolent, quiet, peace_able, contented, easy, compassionate, generous, humble, meek, modest, submissive, obliging, diligent and industrious, charitable, even, patient, moderate, forgiving, sincere temper; and to do at all times what such a temper would lead me to. Examine strictly every week, whether I have done so. Sabbath morning. May 5,1723.
48. Resolved, constantly, with the utmost niceness and diligence, and the strictest scrutiny, to be looking into the state of my soul, that I may know whether I have truly an interest in Christ or no; that when I come to die, I may not have any negligence respecting this to repent of. May 26, 1723.
49. Resolved, that this never shall be, if I can help it.
50. Resolved, I will act so as I think I shall judge would have been best, and most prudent, when I come into the future world. July 5, 1723.
51. Resolved, that I will act so, in every respect, as I think I shall wish I had done, if I should at last be damned. July 8, 1723.
52. I frequently hear persons in old age say how they would live, if they were to live their lives over again: Resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age. July 8, 1723.
53. Resolved, to improve every opportunity, when I am in the best and happiest frame of mind, to cast and venture my soul on the Lord Jesus Christ, to trust and confide in him, and consecrate myself wholly to him; that from this I may have assurance of my safety, knowing that I confide in my Redeemer. July 8, 1723.
54. Whenever I hear anything spoken in conversation of any person, if I think it would be praiseworthy in me, Resolved to endeavor to imitate it. July 8, 1723.
55. Resolved, to endeavor to my utmost to act as I can think I should do, if I had already seen the happiness of heaven, and hell torments. July 8, 1723.
56. Resolved, never to give over, nor in the least to slacken my fight with my corruptions, however unsuccessful I may be.
57. Resolved, when I fear misfortunes and adversities, to examine whether ~ have done my duty, and resolve to do it; and let it be just as providence orders it, I will as far as I can, be concerned about nothing but my duty and my sin. June 9, and July 13 1723.
58. Resolved, not only to refrain from an air of dislike, fretfulness, and anger in conversation, but to exhibit an air of love, cheerfulness and benignity. May27, and July 13, 1723.
59. Resolved, when I am most conscious of provocations to ill nature and anger, that I will strive most to feel and act good-naturedly; yea, at such times, to manifest good nature, though I think that in other respects it would be disadvantageous, and so as would be imprudent at other times. May 12, July ii, and July 13.
60. Resolved, whenever my feelings begin to appear in the least out of order, when I am conscious of the least uneasiness within, or the least irregularity without, I will then subject myself to the strictest examination. July 4, and 13, 1723.
61. Resolved, that I will not give way to that listlessness which I find unbends and relaxes my mind from being fully and fixedly set on religion, whatever excuse I may have for it-that what my listlessness inclines me to do, is best to be done, etc. May 21, and July 13, 1723.
62. Resolved, never to do anything but duty; and then according to Eph. 6:6-8, do it willingly and cheerfully as unto the Lord, and not to man; “knowing that whatever good thing any man doth, the same shall he receive of the Lord.” June 25 and July 13, 1723.
63. On the supposition, that there never was to be but one individual in the world, at any one time, who was properly a complete Christian, in all respects of a right stamp, having Christianity always shining in its true luster, and appearing excellent and lovely, from whatever part and under whatever character viewed: Resolved, to act just as I would do, if I strove with all my might to be that one, who should live in my time. Jan.14′ and July ‘3’ 1723.
64. Resolved, when I find those “groanings which cannot be uttered” (Rom. 8:26), of which the Apostle speaks, and those “breakings of soul for the longing it hath,” of which the Psalmist speaks, Psalm 119:20, that I will promote them to the utmost of my power, and that I will not be wear’, of earnestly endeavoring to vent my desires, nor of the repetitions of such earnestness. July 23, and August 10, 1723.
65. Resolved, very much to exercise myself in this all my life long, viz. with the greatest openness I am capable of, to declare my ways to God, and lay open my soul to him: all my sins, temptations, difficulties, sorrows, fears, hopes, desires, and every thing, and every circumstance; according to Dr. Manton’s 27th Sermon on Psalm 119. July 26, and Aug.10 1723.
66. Resolved, that I will endeavor always to keep a benign aspect, and air of acting and speaking in all places, and in all companies, except it should so happen that duty requires otherwise.
67. Resolved, after afflictions, to inquire, what I am the better for them, what good I have got by them, and what I might have got by them.
68. Resolved, to confess frankly to myself all that which I find in myself, either infirmity or sin; and, if it be what concerns religion, also to confess the whole case to God, and implore needed help. July 23, and August 10, 1723.
69. Resolved, always to do that, which I shall wish I had done when I see others do it. Aug. 11, 1723.
70. Let there be something of benevolence, in all that I speak. Aug. 17, 1723
End.
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The TRUTH About CHRISTmas; The mile-long buffet
How do you find TRUTH when there are so many options?
I love to eat. Sometimes, I will saddle up and travel to the nearest glutton-barn and gorge. The Golden Coral & China Buffet has more food than you could possibly eat. Even if you were to try one of everything you would burst out of your buckle. However, the food is there and you need to get your moneys worth.
Take Supermarkets & Department Stores, they have more choices than you really want in any size, shape, or color you want or don’t want. How do you know what you want? You got to try it on to see if it fits.
And how about bookstores? I love bookstores. I could spend days in a good bookstore. Yet every time I walk into one I walk out with my mind stuffed from the diet of their mile-long buffet of worldviews. Not a buffet of food, but black and white squares tied together with fancy bindings.
This is the buffet season.
I am convinced this world needs to get back to the One-Truth Diet. It can even be found in a Book. The Story begins with the eyewitness’s account of John when God entered the world as a man (John 1:1-5). When people ask, who is this Baby…The One given to Mary in a cow trough? And why is His birth so important? I can confidently tell the real Truth behind CHRISTmas. The TRUTH about CHRISTmas is CHRIST!!!
Pilate asked Jesus before His death, “So you are a king?
Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this reason I have come into the world—to bear witness of the TRUTH.”
To tell you the truth…I will tell you more about the Truth.
Jesus spoke the TRUTH. The most important truth in the universe is that Jesus claims He is God. “TRULY, TRULY, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM” (Jn.8:58) I AM = O.T. declaration of God (Ex.3:14). In a real sense Jesus said, I AM GOD Have you heard about the truth of Jesus?
Jesus lived the TRUTH. “I AM the way, the Truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (Jn.14:6) Jesus is the embodiment of Truth. He is God in human flesh.
Jesus established the TRUTH. Jesus died to establish Truth. He was a witness (martyr) for the Truth. He willingly sacrificed His life so that you might know the Truth. Jesus is called the “Amen, the faithful and TRUE witness” (Rev.3:14) “Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings on earth” (Rev.1:4-5) Jesus was born with a human nature so that “through His death He might destroy the one who has the power of death” (Heb.2:14) He stepped on the earth to be a sacrifice for man. He lived to die. He died that you and I might have life.
Jesus sent you and I to be witnesses of the TRUTH. The truth about Jesus didn’t end with His death, but continues on through you. “As the Father has sent Me, even so I AM sending you” (Jn.20:21) “the word of TRUTH, the gospel of your salvation” (Eph.1:13)
The Mile-long buffet of truth starts and ends with Jesus Christ. “For this purpose I was born and for this reason I have come into the world—to bear witness of the TRUTH.”
Jesus is not Santa Claus, you don’t have to come to Him with a wish list. Jesus is not a cosmic Easter Bunny, you don’t have to search for Him under rocks or in eggs. Jesus is not David Copperfield, what He does is miraculous. And Jesus is not Mr. Rogers, He invites you to a greater neighborhood. Jesus is the TRUTH.
Is Jesus your TRUTH this CHRISTmas?
To be spoken at Davis Manor Christmas 2006. Message came with help of Gods Word and a thought from John Piper.
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the LIGHTS of CHRISTmas
Hebrews 13:3 Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.
A New Meaning
For many of us, lighted Christmas trees awaken our tender holiday hopes and memories: quiet moments of family togetherness, child-like anticipation of special gifts, and shared celebrations across generations. The lights also remind believers of the starlit heavens over the birthplace of our savior, Jesus Christ.
However, there is another story in each strand of Christmas lights, told in the little paper tag on the cord: Made in China. This story also has a powerful link to Jesus; Chinese pastors and believers, imprisoned for sharing their faith, perform much of the tedious manual labor. Many believers in China are persecuted and suffer greatly for professing Jesus as Lord and sharing His message of hope with others. For these Chinese pastors and believers, the same Christmas lights that remind Westerners of joy, togetherness, and peace are a harsh reminder of prison, pain and beatings.
The Facts
Most of the world is unaware of the torture that Chinese believers suffer.
While China presents a picture of increasing religious tolerance, Christians face constant harassment and the most intense persecution in the world.What is so Torturous About Making Christmas Lights?Imagine sitting on cold or muddy ground with only a huge box of lights and wire in front of you. Without tools of any kind, you must assemble 3000–5000 lights per day. There is no time for rest or breaks. Quickly, your fingers become numb and bloody. Your teeth serve as your only crimping tools. Even as you work to complete your tasks, you know that you will be beaten severely if you don’t get it all done.
Should We Boycott the Sale and Use of Christmas Lights? These Pastors say no; let the lights be reminders to pray. If believers aren’t making lights, they will be mining coal, making syringes or bricks, or performing other forms of hard labor. These believers turn their focus onto the eternally significant message of Christ, and we are asking you to do the same. These Pastors say no; let the lights be reminders to pray. If believers aren’t making lights, they will be mining coal, making syringes or bricks, or performing other forms of hard labor. These believers turn their focus onto the eternally significant message of Christ, and we are asking you to do the same.In the Midst of this Hardship, How Do They Persevere? While we pray diligently for their release, many persecuted believers testify, “I want the world to know I am willing to suffer for the Lord Jesus Christ.” Even in prison, these pastors share the Gospel with others. Many even leave prison tearfully, because they leave behind new believers that they led to Christ while in prison together. Clearly, the Lord is using the persecution to draw others to Himself. Even with the rise of suffering, the Chinese underground church has experienced its most dramatic surge ever, with upwards of 80 million believers following Christ today. The brave servants declare, “We are not about self, but rather we are about the kingdom of God and bringing Him glory!” While we pray diligently for their release, many persecuted believers testify, “I want the world to know I am willing to suffer for the Lord Jesus Christ.” Even in prison, these pastors share the Gospel with others. Many even leave prison tearfully, because they leave behind new believers that they led to Christ while in prison together. Clearly, the Lord is using the persecution to draw others to Himself. Even with the rise of suffering, the Chinese underground church has experienced its most dramatic surge ever, with upwards of 80 million believers following Christ today. The brave servants declare, “We are not about self, but rather we are about the kingdom of God and bringing Him glory!”
Prayer Requests For imprisoned pastors, pray that they would:
- be allowed to visit their families.
- receive good news about their families.
- be given an extra measure of food.
- experience God’s comfort, peace, and protection.
- have the energy to endure hard labor.
- resist temptations to deny the Lord in exchange for food and comforts.
- effectively witness to other prisoners and guards.
- be released.
For the guards, pray:
- their hearts will be filled with compassion.
- they will turn to Jesus Christ.
For the house churches in China, pray:
- ministries continue to flourish while their pastors are gone.
- Bibles will be protected and new Scriptures provided.
- meetings will be uninterrupted and safe for newcomers.
- training schools will not be discovered by authorities.
For the families of persecuted pastors, pray:
- authorities will inform them where their loved ones are being held and allow visitation.
- clothing, food, and shelter will be provided.
- they remain healthy and strong.
- a sense of safety will calm their spirits.
- neighbors can and will support them.
- that families will be able to stay together.
- the children can go to school.
- the children will recognize their parents’ obedience.
This article was taken from: http://www.thelightsofchristmas.org/christmas/index.html
spreading the fame 