I drove over to the WalMart in our neighborhood the other day to pick up a few things. I parked the car at the far end of the parking lot as is my ritual (helps cut down on the number of dings in the car door) and began the long trek in from what seems like the outskirts of Travelers Rest.
Upon arriving at the front door, I realized that I had left home without my money clip. So, there I stood with shopping list in hand and NO MONEY. Now, being an intelligent man, I was faced with two choices….try and purchase my items with my handsome, rugged good looks or return home and get my money…. So I did the prudent and rational thing; I turned and started the journey back to my car.
You see, I know, as do you that Walmart deals in the currency of our country…the good old U.S. dollar; therefore, if I planned to leave the store with the items on my list, I would have to give them the required amount of currency for my purchases.
Heaven works a lot like this…if we want our loving and gracious Heavenly Father to provide us with our needs; answer the longings and pleadings of our heart; keep us safe and in the center of His will, we must use the currency of heaven to approach the throne of our Savior and Redeemer…the currency of FAITH.
God’s Holy word gives us instruction in this matter in Hebrews as we read, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. For without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:1-2, 6
We may think we know exactly what we need and we may approach God with all sincerity and reverence; but if we come to Him without faith, it’s like showing up at Walmart without your money….and the results will probably be the same….NO FAITH….NO ANSWERED PRAYER.
Faith tells us that what we can not see is about to happen…and through the eyes of faith; we can see the evidence of God at work in his universe. By this, we can know that He is also at work in the life of anyone who believes and puts their faith in Him. Our conviction and assurance is manifested in our belief that God honors those who honor and adore Him. The accompanying scripture in Hebrews 11 tells us that God honored Noah… who though he lived in an arid desert and had probably never seen rain…in holy fear and empowered faith; he built an ark to save his family from the coming flood. By his faith, Noah condemned the world and he became an heir of righteousness that comes by faith.
To please God we need one critical element….FAITH…. it is a two-fold faith that tells us in our heart of hearts that He exists and if we diligently seek Him and His will, He is a God who rewards.
Without such faith, IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE GOD….and it is impossible to receive the blessings and loving care that God so graciously seeks to bestow on His children.
How’s the balance of your heavenly checkbook ….is it filled to overflowing in the currency of heaven, FAITH…or is the balance in the red? How much faith do you need to bring your account balance back into “good standing”? Come back tomorrow and we’ll answer that question together as we search God’s Holy word.
Seeking to Please Him…..Faithfully Serving,
WPQ
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Living Confidently in a Chaotic World-Conclusion
For the past few days, we have focused on answering the question, “How can we live confidently in a chaotic world?”
The scripture has taught us that we can live confidently if we follow the 5 “C’s”…we must remember that God is in CONTROL and in CHARGE as we surrender to his will….believe that God is COMPASSIONATE and his love sustains us through all of life’s calamities….find solace as we experience that God is CALM and has never been caught unaware….take heart in the knowledge that God is CONSISTENT and is the same for each of us; past, present and future.
But most of all, I believe we can, as the children of God, live confidently because of our Savior’s COMMITMENT…His unfailing promise to love us unconditionally and eternally. As always, Jesus’ own words say it best; “Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, you may be also.” John 14:1-3 ESV
Jesus could not bear the thought of living without you and me…so even though He would have to return to Heaven after his glorious resurrection, He shared with his disciples (and us) on that fateful night that HE WAS COMING BACK!!!!!
Yes, Jesus committed his life to the Father’s will and to his own personal destruction….and in his last act of commitment found in Acts 1:9-11, we read…
“And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold two men stood by them in white robes and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Jesus has promised …has made the commitment …to come back and get those of us who are called by his name…and Jesus never lies!!!
There is, however, even more proof that Jesus is coming back …just as He promised …in the story that follows…the story of THE FOLDED NAPKIN….
At the tomb of Jesus, we see John out race Peter and arrive at the grave site first. He peers in, but does not enter. Then, Simon Peter arrives, enters and sees the grave clothes lying there; but the napkin that covered our Savior’s face was not with the grave clothes; rather, it was neatly folded and resting in a place by itself. The natural question was,
Why did Jesus fold the napkin?
Read on be blessed....
The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at the head of that stony coffin.
Is that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes! In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to-do with the Master and Servant…and every Jewish boy knew this tradition.
When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly with everything in exactly the right place so the Master would be pleased; then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating. The servant would dare not touch the table until he was sure that the master was finished. Then, if the master was done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, clean his beard and then, he would wad up the napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded-up or unfolded napkin meant, “I’M DONE!”
But, if the master got up from the table, folded his napkin and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because..........
The folded napkin meant....I’M COMING BACK!!!!!
Praise God in Heaven…..He’s Coming Back to redeem His Own.
I trust that today this little story holds great significance for you because you know Jesus as your personal Savior....for even in His resurrection moment, He confirmed by the folded napkin His promise...
HE IS COMING BACK...and I, for one, can’t wait!
Clinging to the Hope …Living Confidently in a Chaotic World,
WPQ
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
For all who call on Jesus’ name
We believe this simple fact.
He has gone to prepare a place,
But soon, HE’S COMING BACK!
The scripture has taught us that we can live confidently if we follow the 5 “C’s”…we must remember that God is in CONTROL and in CHARGE as we surrender to his will….believe that God is COMPASSIONATE and his love sustains us through all of life’s calamities….find solace as we experience that God is CALM and has never been caught unaware….take heart in the knowledge that God is CONSISTENT and is the same for each of us; past, present and future.
But most of all, I believe we can, as the children of God, live confidently because of our Savior’s COMMITMENT…His unfailing promise to love us unconditionally and eternally. As always, Jesus’ own words say it best; “Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, you may be also.” John 14:1-3 ESV
Jesus could not bear the thought of living without you and me…so even though He would have to return to Heaven after his glorious resurrection, He shared with his disciples (and us) on that fateful night that HE WAS COMING BACK!!!!!
Yes, Jesus committed his life to the Father’s will and to his own personal destruction….and in his last act of commitment found in Acts 1:9-11, we read…
“And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold two men stood by them in white robes and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Jesus has promised …has made the commitment …to come back and get those of us who are called by his name…and Jesus never lies!!!
There is, however, even more proof that Jesus is coming back …just as He promised …in the story that follows…the story of THE FOLDED NAPKIN….
At the tomb of Jesus, we see John out race Peter and arrive at the grave site first. He peers in, but does not enter. Then, Simon Peter arrives, enters and sees the grave clothes lying there; but the napkin that covered our Savior’s face was not with the grave clothes; rather, it was neatly folded and resting in a place by itself. The natural question was,
Why did Jesus fold the napkin?
Read on be blessed....
The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at the head of that stony coffin.
Is that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes! In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to-do with the Master and Servant…and every Jewish boy knew this tradition.
When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly with everything in exactly the right place so the Master would be pleased; then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating. The servant would dare not touch the table until he was sure that the master was finished. Then, if the master was done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, clean his beard and then, he would wad up the napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded-up or unfolded napkin meant, “I’M DONE!”
But, if the master got up from the table, folded his napkin and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because..........
The folded napkin meant....I’M COMING BACK!!!!!
Praise God in Heaven…..He’s Coming Back to redeem His Own.
I trust that today this little story holds great significance for you because you know Jesus as your personal Savior....for even in His resurrection moment, He confirmed by the folded napkin His promise...
HE IS COMING BACK...and I, for one, can’t wait!
Clinging to the Hope …Living Confidently in a Chaotic World,
WPQ
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
For all who call on Jesus’ name
We believe this simple fact.
He has gone to prepare a place,
But soon, HE’S COMING BACK!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Living Confidently – Day 4
If you have been watching much TV in the last few weeks, your optical and sensory receptors have been constantly bombarded with political ads …ads from would-be, wannabe politicians that will and have promised anything in hopes of securing your vote.
Many have promised lower taxes, reduced spending, end of “pork” projects, etc., etc, and etc. They have collectively promised anything and everything that they believed the majority wanted to hear …but not it is the time where “the rubber meets the road’. How many of our newly elected officials will actually carry out and consistently vote the voice of their constituents … a strong voice so loudly heard in these mid-term elections?
I dare say there will only be a handful that will be consistent in following the will of the people…for unfortunately; men and women alike fail miserably when it comes to being consistent in our words and deeds.
But, praise be to God that He is CONSISTENT…and because He is, we can live with great confidence in these chaotic times….FOR OUR GOD KEEPS HIS WORD IN ALL THINGS.
In Hebrews, the 13th chapter, we read: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me!” For Jesus is the same YESTERDAY and TODAY and FOREVER.” (Verses 5-6, 8)
Our Savior is faithful and consistently all that we need to endure the slings and arrows of our adversaries. In fact, in the entire ministry of Jesus, he preached but one thing and one thing only ..”I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. No man comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14: 6
You can’t be much more consistent than that!!!!!!!! One message, one cross, one sinless man’s blood shed for the sins of all mankind….and one and only one way to the Father.
Yes, in all of the days that Jesus walked upon and among His creations, He was the perfect model of consistency. In miracle after miracle, we see that Jesus always arrived seldom early …never late …but always RIGHT ON TIME… so that God would receive the glory and the son of Man would be lifted up and held in high esteem.
Our God is CONSISTENT….the same for you and me and all those that call upon his name…and He is the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever. You can ALWAYS count on God to be there for you, even if all others have deserted you and run for the hills. God will be at your side to lean upon …in front of you as your guide…and behind you as your rear guard…and if the journey is too great, then He will carry you to a place of rest and completion greater than you can think or imagine.
I could recount story upon story upon story of how God has worked consistently in my life and the life of my family for these many years…and I’m sure, if you took just a moment, many examples of his faithfulness and consistent love would flood your memory too….so why not do that today? Take that moment and think on those times that your Lord and Savior has been consistent in your life.
Then, you will be able to faithfully answer the question that seems to plague us all….Why should I fear, what can man do to me?
Living confidently in my Consistent Savior,
WPQ
Thought for the day:
The Father seeks to give to us
The strength to face each day
And we can live in confidence
As we seek to walk His way.
To live our lives consistently
That should be our prayer;
For Jesus’ love will never change
As with others we seek to share.
10/16/2010
Many have promised lower taxes, reduced spending, end of “pork” projects, etc., etc, and etc. They have collectively promised anything and everything that they believed the majority wanted to hear …but not it is the time where “the rubber meets the road’. How many of our newly elected officials will actually carry out and consistently vote the voice of their constituents … a strong voice so loudly heard in these mid-term elections?
I dare say there will only be a handful that will be consistent in following the will of the people…for unfortunately; men and women alike fail miserably when it comes to being consistent in our words and deeds.
But, praise be to God that He is CONSISTENT…and because He is, we can live with great confidence in these chaotic times….FOR OUR GOD KEEPS HIS WORD IN ALL THINGS.
In Hebrews, the 13th chapter, we read: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me!” For Jesus is the same YESTERDAY and TODAY and FOREVER.” (Verses 5-6, 8)
Our Savior is faithful and consistently all that we need to endure the slings and arrows of our adversaries. In fact, in the entire ministry of Jesus, he preached but one thing and one thing only ..”I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. No man comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14: 6
You can’t be much more consistent than that!!!!!!!! One message, one cross, one sinless man’s blood shed for the sins of all mankind….and one and only one way to the Father.
Yes, in all of the days that Jesus walked upon and among His creations, He was the perfect model of consistency. In miracle after miracle, we see that Jesus always arrived seldom early …never late …but always RIGHT ON TIME… so that God would receive the glory and the son of Man would be lifted up and held in high esteem.
Our God is CONSISTENT….the same for you and me and all those that call upon his name…and He is the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever. You can ALWAYS count on God to be there for you, even if all others have deserted you and run for the hills. God will be at your side to lean upon …in front of you as your guide…and behind you as your rear guard…and if the journey is too great, then He will carry you to a place of rest and completion greater than you can think or imagine.
I could recount story upon story upon story of how God has worked consistently in my life and the life of my family for these many years…and I’m sure, if you took just a moment, many examples of his faithfulness and consistent love would flood your memory too….so why not do that today? Take that moment and think on those times that your Lord and Savior has been consistent in your life.
Then, you will be able to faithfully answer the question that seems to plague us all….Why should I fear, what can man do to me?
Living confidently in my Consistent Savior,
WPQ
Thought for the day:
The Father seeks to give to us
The strength to face each day
And we can live in confidence
As we seek to walk His way.
To live our lives consistently
That should be our prayer;
For Jesus’ love will never change
As with others we seek to share.
10/16/2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Living Confidently in a Chaotic World-Day 3
As we pick up on our theme of our 5-part narrative of “HOW TO LIVE CONFIDENTLY IN A CHAOTIC WORLD,” I am reminded of the story of the disciples and their trip across the lake.
It seems that Jesus and his disciples had been very busy in the performance of traveling throughout the countryside teaching, preaching and conducting healing in the towns and synagogues of the region. One calm day, Jesus approached his disciples and said, “Let’s go over to the other side of the lake.” Now, this seemed to be a reasonable request, well within the expertise of this band of former fisherman…so they all hopped in the boat and set sail for the far side of the lake. Jesus, who was certainly tired and needed some rest, found a comfortable spot in the boat and went to sleep.
Well, as is the custom of the lake, the winds began to blow and in no short time, these rugged, experienced fishermen found themselves in the midst of a terrific storm…so fierce that they feared for their lives….all the while, Jesus continued to sleep. As the danger seemed to mount and the disciples feared that the boat would be swamped and capsize, they hurried to the Master... Luke 8:24-25 continues the story; “The disciples went and woke him saying, “Master, Master, we are going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided and ALL WAS CALM.”
In today’s world, if we are to live confidently in these chaotic times, we must learn the lesson that Jesus taught his disciples on the tempest tossed waters; in the midst of the raging wind and storm….we can be calm for HE IS CALM.
Yes, the third “C” in our list of the five “C’s” of confident living is we can live confidently for GOD IS CALM!!!!!
In the book of Psalms 107:28-30, we find confidence when we read, “Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm and he guided them to their desired haven.” Yes, our God is never anxious or unsettled; in fact, there are five words that do not exist in God’s vocabulary ….
“I DIDN’T SEE THAT COMING!!!!” Our Heavenly Father has never been surprised or caught “off guard”. He has never been mystified or uttered the words “oops” or “uh-oohhh”…He has seldom been early and he has never been late…but he has ALWAYS been right on time to provide us with our every need and to surround us with his unfailing love in times of distress and discomfort.
Yes, if you want to live confidently in this day and age, you need to do one thing….MIMIC GOD AND REMAIN CALM. He alone is ALL we need to make it through every situation that the devil and his minions’ may put in our path. If we will only take our eyes off of our circumstances and re- focus them on Jesus and his calming nature, then we will bring comfort and a blessed assurance to all those that we encounter in the midst of turbulent times.
As a disciple of Christ, we can watch as he rebukes the circumstances that bring about fear and trepidation in our lives ….or if we should succumb to that fear, we will be faced with the same question that Jesus posed to his disciples that night, on that stormy lake, when he asked, “WHERE IS YOUR FAITH?’
If you, as a child of the King, can remain calm when all others about you are in panic mode, then that speaks volumes about you; but more importantly, it speaks volumes about you and your relationship with Jesus.
So start living today as though nothing in this world matters… except your relationship with Jesus and you will be surprised by the calmness that will envelope your life.
Riding out life’s storms….confidently calm in His presence,
WPQ
Thought for the day:
When life’s storm clouds gather
And you see the threat of the coming rain
Just place you hope in Jesus
And He’ll take away your pain.
Just put your trust in Jesus
For He holds you in His palm
And your heart will be at peace
Your life will know His calm.
WPQ@2010
It seems that Jesus and his disciples had been very busy in the performance of traveling throughout the countryside teaching, preaching and conducting healing in the towns and synagogues of the region. One calm day, Jesus approached his disciples and said, “Let’s go over to the other side of the lake.” Now, this seemed to be a reasonable request, well within the expertise of this band of former fisherman…so they all hopped in the boat and set sail for the far side of the lake. Jesus, who was certainly tired and needed some rest, found a comfortable spot in the boat and went to sleep.
Well, as is the custom of the lake, the winds began to blow and in no short time, these rugged, experienced fishermen found themselves in the midst of a terrific storm…so fierce that they feared for their lives….all the while, Jesus continued to sleep. As the danger seemed to mount and the disciples feared that the boat would be swamped and capsize, they hurried to the Master... Luke 8:24-25 continues the story; “The disciples went and woke him saying, “Master, Master, we are going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided and ALL WAS CALM.”
In today’s world, if we are to live confidently in these chaotic times, we must learn the lesson that Jesus taught his disciples on the tempest tossed waters; in the midst of the raging wind and storm….we can be calm for HE IS CALM.
Yes, the third “C” in our list of the five “C’s” of confident living is we can live confidently for GOD IS CALM!!!!!
In the book of Psalms 107:28-30, we find confidence when we read, “Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm and he guided them to their desired haven.” Yes, our God is never anxious or unsettled; in fact, there are five words that do not exist in God’s vocabulary ….
“I DIDN’T SEE THAT COMING!!!!” Our Heavenly Father has never been surprised or caught “off guard”. He has never been mystified or uttered the words “oops” or “uh-oohhh”…He has seldom been early and he has never been late…but he has ALWAYS been right on time to provide us with our every need and to surround us with his unfailing love in times of distress and discomfort.
Yes, if you want to live confidently in this day and age, you need to do one thing….MIMIC GOD AND REMAIN CALM. He alone is ALL we need to make it through every situation that the devil and his minions’ may put in our path. If we will only take our eyes off of our circumstances and re- focus them on Jesus and his calming nature, then we will bring comfort and a blessed assurance to all those that we encounter in the midst of turbulent times.
As a disciple of Christ, we can watch as he rebukes the circumstances that bring about fear and trepidation in our lives ….or if we should succumb to that fear, we will be faced with the same question that Jesus posed to his disciples that night, on that stormy lake, when he asked, “WHERE IS YOUR FAITH?’
If you, as a child of the King, can remain calm when all others about you are in panic mode, then that speaks volumes about you; but more importantly, it speaks volumes about you and your relationship with Jesus.
So start living today as though nothing in this world matters… except your relationship with Jesus and you will be surprised by the calmness that will envelope your life.
Riding out life’s storms….confidently calm in His presence,
WPQ
Thought for the day:
When life’s storm clouds gather
And you see the threat of the coming rain
Just place you hope in Jesus
And He’ll take away your pain.
Just put your trust in Jesus
For He holds you in His palm
And your heart will be at peace
Your life will know His calm.
WPQ@2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
Honoring God's Man-Jack Benninghofen
Today is a very sad day for me. I just received an email that one of my best and dearest friends and mentors from my days as a RAM with Seed America has been called home to glory.
Jack Benninghofen passed away yesterday around 4 PM. He was out running, a pastime in which Jack took immense pride in; an activity that always kept him motivated and energized….two of Jack’s greatest attributes.
But for Jack running was his nature, especially for his Lord. Jack was always running the good race to obtain the prize of the high calling that God had placed on his life. He was the yardstick that God used to measure many a man who dared to make a difference in this world for our Lord and Savior.
Yes, my heart is broken for Jack and his family….his wife, Mary; his son, Todd and daughter, Emily. I know they will miss their husband, father and best friend. Today, this world’s light has been diminished by the passing of Jack…it is indeed a darker and colder universe in which we now live; but in that moment of Jack’s call to come home, Heaven has never seemed brighter….for oh how the face of Jesus must have shone in splendid light when he saw Jack enter the portals of heaven….And the singing and rejoicing of the angels; well, I’m sure the strands of music have never been sweeter.
But what about his family and his friends and the pain that now fills us with incalculable grief and sorrow? What shall we do….How shall we cope….By listening to the voice of our Savior in John 14: 27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
We know today that Jack has seen the fulfillment of God’s promise through his son, Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. BECAUSE I LIVE, YOU WILL ALSO LIVE.” John 14: 19
Jack Benninghofen lives today….because He knew Jesus personally and fervently and had committed all of who he was to affirming that relationship each and every day…and most important of all, Jack helped so many of us commit our lives to that same affirmation by the life he lived among us.
Jack’s physical presence may have been removed from this world and he will be forever missed; but the loving, encouraging spirit that was the essence of this God-honoring man will forever live among us …in the heart and soul of everyone he touched along life’s way.
May God Bless and Keep You, Jack. We loved you and called you friend.
Your Brother in Christ,
WPQ
Jack Benninghofen passed away yesterday around 4 PM. He was out running, a pastime in which Jack took immense pride in; an activity that always kept him motivated and energized….two of Jack’s greatest attributes.
But for Jack running was his nature, especially for his Lord. Jack was always running the good race to obtain the prize of the high calling that God had placed on his life. He was the yardstick that God used to measure many a man who dared to make a difference in this world for our Lord and Savior.
Yes, my heart is broken for Jack and his family….his wife, Mary; his son, Todd and daughter, Emily. I know they will miss their husband, father and best friend. Today, this world’s light has been diminished by the passing of Jack…it is indeed a darker and colder universe in which we now live; but in that moment of Jack’s call to come home, Heaven has never seemed brighter….for oh how the face of Jesus must have shone in splendid light when he saw Jack enter the portals of heaven….And the singing and rejoicing of the angels; well, I’m sure the strands of music have never been sweeter.
But what about his family and his friends and the pain that now fills us with incalculable grief and sorrow? What shall we do….How shall we cope….By listening to the voice of our Savior in John 14: 27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
We know today that Jack has seen the fulfillment of God’s promise through his son, Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. BECAUSE I LIVE, YOU WILL ALSO LIVE.” John 14: 19
Jack Benninghofen lives today….because He knew Jesus personally and fervently and had committed all of who he was to affirming that relationship each and every day…and most important of all, Jack helped so many of us commit our lives to that same affirmation by the life he lived among us.
Jack’s physical presence may have been removed from this world and he will be forever missed; but the loving, encouraging spirit that was the essence of this God-honoring man will forever live among us …in the heart and soul of everyone he touched along life’s way.
May God Bless and Keep You, Jack. We loved you and called you friend.
Your Brother in Christ,
WPQ
Thursday, November 11, 2010
We Salute You, Veterans
Due to the conditions in our world today and to the deployment of the bravest fighting men and women in our Armed Services, both past and present, please allow me to reprint today's Salt & Light from last year. If you have someone in your immediate family that is a veteran then, before the sun sets this evening, give them a GREAT BIG HUG and thank them for their service and sacrifice to insure our democracy and our legacy....the American way of life. If you do not know a veteran, then I strongly suggest you expand your circle of friends to include these fine and courageous people. YOUR LIFE WILL BE BETTER FOR IT!!!!
Today is a special day that only we in America celebrate…it is a day to honor all the men and women that have served their country in the military…it is VETERAN’S DAY.
Now, I know for a lot of people this day is a day of inconvenience; the banks are closed and there is no mail service….but for anyone who has red, white and blue coursing through their veins, this is a day of grateful celebration.
Throughout the history of this great nation, there have always been men and women that have stepped up to answer the call to arms whenever our country has been threatened or there is tyranny in the world…..but what about the day after day after day activity of protecting our country and the freedoms we hold so dear…
Who answers that call?
The young man who just graduated from high school…the father of three who runs an auto repair shop….the mother who was a filing clerk ….each and every person who swears an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of these great United States is bound by their vow to serve …and TODAY, WE HONOR EACH AND EVERYONE THAT HAS ANSWERED THAT CALL……
VETERANS, WE SALUTE YOU AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO US ALL….
The following poems seek to honor those that have served and given sacrificially for us all….May God Bless You!
A SOLIDER’S PRAYER
I signed a piece of paper,
I took an oath as well.
I promised to protect My Country,
Tis’ a mission I can’t fail.
I’ve banded with my comrades
So together strong we stand;
In defense of this Great Nation,
Of this bright and promised land.
So, I will gladly do my duty
And if I must give my all,
My prayer will be…those left behind
Will continue to stand tall…
To fight for Peace and Freedom
To protect Sweet Liberty
I pray, Dear Father
That you grant this humble
SOLDIER’S PLEA.
WPQ Copyright October 2001
And to the fine men and women returning from service in the war-torn theaters of Iraq and Afganistan...the following is specifically for you! GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU AND RESTORE YOU TO A LIFE FULFILLED ...THANK YOU FOR YOUR FAITHFUL SERVICE!
WELCOME HOME
Welcome home, soldiers proud
Together, strong we stand
Defending freedom around the world
From this bright and promised land
Called to do your duty
To sacrifice for all
You proudly wear the uniform
For freedom, you stand tall.
You gave upon the battlefield
Your blood, your sweat and tears
And stood against the Evil ones
Who filled our lives with fear.
And now though spent, the battle won
Your respite is close at hand
As you return to freedom’s breast
To this great and glorious land;
We applaud you…we shout with joy
We immortalize this day
Welcome Home… Dear Patriots
To the good old U.S.A.
With Heartfelt Thanks We Salute Those Who Gave Their Best…
May God Bless You Every Day And Grant You His Sweet Rest!!!!!
WPQ February 14, 2005
Today is a special day that only we in America celebrate…it is a day to honor all the men and women that have served their country in the military…it is VETERAN’S DAY.
Now, I know for a lot of people this day is a day of inconvenience; the banks are closed and there is no mail service….but for anyone who has red, white and blue coursing through their veins, this is a day of grateful celebration.
Throughout the history of this great nation, there have always been men and women that have stepped up to answer the call to arms whenever our country has been threatened or there is tyranny in the world…..but what about the day after day after day activity of protecting our country and the freedoms we hold so dear…
Who answers that call?
The young man who just graduated from high school…the father of three who runs an auto repair shop….the mother who was a filing clerk ….each and every person who swears an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of these great United States is bound by their vow to serve …and TODAY, WE HONOR EACH AND EVERYONE THAT HAS ANSWERED THAT CALL……
VETERANS, WE SALUTE YOU AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO US ALL….
The following poems seek to honor those that have served and given sacrificially for us all….May God Bless You!
A SOLIDER’S PRAYER
I signed a piece of paper,
I took an oath as well.
I promised to protect My Country,
Tis’ a mission I can’t fail.
I’ve banded with my comrades
So together strong we stand;
In defense of this Great Nation,
Of this bright and promised land.
So, I will gladly do my duty
And if I must give my all,
My prayer will be…those left behind
Will continue to stand tall…
To fight for Peace and Freedom
To protect Sweet Liberty
I pray, Dear Father
That you grant this humble
SOLDIER’S PLEA.
WPQ Copyright October 2001
And to the fine men and women returning from service in the war-torn theaters of Iraq and Afganistan...the following is specifically for you! GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU AND RESTORE YOU TO A LIFE FULFILLED ...THANK YOU FOR YOUR FAITHFUL SERVICE!
WELCOME HOME
Welcome home, soldiers proud
Together, strong we stand
Defending freedom around the world
From this bright and promised land
Called to do your duty
To sacrifice for all
You proudly wear the uniform
For freedom, you stand tall.
You gave upon the battlefield
Your blood, your sweat and tears
And stood against the Evil ones
Who filled our lives with fear.
And now though spent, the battle won
Your respite is close at hand
As you return to freedom’s breast
To this great and glorious land;
We applaud you…we shout with joy
We immortalize this day
Welcome Home… Dear Patriots
To the good old U.S.A.
With Heartfelt Thanks We Salute Those Who Gave Their Best…
May God Bless You Every Day And Grant You His Sweet Rest!!!!!
WPQ February 14, 2005
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Living Confidently in a Chaotic World
To live confidently in a chaotic world would be impossible if not for the gracious nature of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It would prove too great a task for each of us to endure the slings and arrows of our adversary, the Devil, if not for the compassion of God.
Yes, we can live confidently in this chaotic world because GOD IS COMPASSIONATE!
In Psalms 116:5 we read, “The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.” Or, we would find the following in Romans 5:8 that reads, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Even in the book of Lamentations (which signifies “to cry out with a loud voice”) in the 3rd chapter we read these words: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
But what does all that really mean and how does that help us live confidently in this day and age?
Simply put, we can find great comfort and courage for whatever lies ahead of us because of God’s promises to us….
He has promised that he will not allow us to be burdened with more than we can bear.
He has promised that he is with us and that NOTHING can EVER separated us from him and the power of his everlasting love.
He has promised that nothing can ever come against that we can not cast off through his power and his love.
He has promised that he has gone to prepare a place for us and that one day soon he is coming back for us.
He has promised that he that is in us is FAR GREATER than he that is in the world.
He has promised that he is a compassionate heavenly Father who will never leave us or forsake us….
And most of all, He has promised us Himself….through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Yes, our God is a God of Compassion and he will never let the things of this chaotic world overwhelm us if we only trust and obey. But,in order for us to live confidently, we must learn to see the tapestry of our lives as a completed and magnificent picture and not as a mere collection of random brushstrokes. God is the master artist and He alone sees the mural of your life…complete and resplendent with both the good and happy times...as well as those times of turmoil and tribulation….Trust the God of compassion to complete the good and perfect work that He has begun in you and this world will seem to be a lot less chaotic….one day at a time!
Trusting the Artist of Eternity…….A Masterpiece in the Making,
WPQ
Thought for the Day:
When life’s storm clouds gather
And you see the threat of coming rain;
Just place you hope in Jesus
And He’ll take away your pain.
He never will forsake you;
He’s with you each step of the way…
To a bright and glorious morning
For His compassions are new each day.
WPQ@2001
________________________________
Yes, we can live confidently in this chaotic world because GOD IS COMPASSIONATE!
In Psalms 116:5 we read, “The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.” Or, we would find the following in Romans 5:8 that reads, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Even in the book of Lamentations (which signifies “to cry out with a loud voice”) in the 3rd chapter we read these words: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
But what does all that really mean and how does that help us live confidently in this day and age?
Simply put, we can find great comfort and courage for whatever lies ahead of us because of God’s promises to us….
He has promised that he will not allow us to be burdened with more than we can bear.
He has promised that he is with us and that NOTHING can EVER separated us from him and the power of his everlasting love.
He has promised that nothing can ever come against that we can not cast off through his power and his love.
He has promised that he has gone to prepare a place for us and that one day soon he is coming back for us.
He has promised that he that is in us is FAR GREATER than he that is in the world.
He has promised that he is a compassionate heavenly Father who will never leave us or forsake us….
And most of all, He has promised us Himself….through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Yes, our God is a God of Compassion and he will never let the things of this chaotic world overwhelm us if we only trust and obey. But,in order for us to live confidently, we must learn to see the tapestry of our lives as a completed and magnificent picture and not as a mere collection of random brushstrokes. God is the master artist and He alone sees the mural of your life…complete and resplendent with both the good and happy times...as well as those times of turmoil and tribulation….Trust the God of compassion to complete the good and perfect work that He has begun in you and this world will seem to be a lot less chaotic….one day at a time!
Trusting the Artist of Eternity…….A Masterpiece in the Making,
WPQ
Thought for the Day:
When life’s storm clouds gather
And you see the threat of coming rain;
Just place you hope in Jesus
And He’ll take away your pain.
He never will forsake you;
He’s with you each step of the way…
To a bright and glorious morning
For His compassions are new each day.
WPQ@2001
________________________________
Monday, November 8, 2010
Living Confidently in a Chaotic World
As we begin a new week, I pause to ask this question….What does it take to live CONFIDENTLY in a CHAOTIC WORLD.
As I mentioned in my last writing, I am now comfortably re-established at home with my list of “honey-do’s” well within reach of completion; therefore, I would like to embark on a 5-part series that I hope will help us answer the question I posed above.
If you are like so many of the people in this world, it is hard some days to put your feet on the floor to get out of bed…I mean, why bother with the state of world affairs. And unfortunately, this same attitude seems to be held by many of us who call ourselves Christians.
For the next few days, I want us to search the Scriptures and hear from our Heavenly Father as to how we can live confidently in these chaotic days.
First and foremost, we can live confidently for GOD IS IN CONTROL.
In Genesis 1:1-3a, 4a, 6a, we read, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and darkness was over the surface of the deep and Spirit of God was hovering above the waters. AND GOD SAID, Let there be light……AND GOD SAID, let there be an expanse….AND GOD SAID, Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky….”
God was in CONTROL and He spoke EVERYTHING into existence….GOD SAID IT …and IT WAS SO!!!!!!!!
The entirety of God’s Word tells us in no uncertain terms that God is in control. It speaks with great authority concerning God’s omniscience and his omnipresence and it tells us time and time again that nothing in this world happens without the Father’s knowledge….that fact alone should bring us solace in times of distress.
However, though God is in control, He must also be IN CHARGE if He is to produce a calm spirit when we stand on the precipice of being swallowed up in the chaos of a sinful world. Since the beginning of time our great, awesome and all-powerful God has never forced His will on us; rather He has waited for us to invite him into our lives and he has patiently courted us to give him our hearts.
Jesus said it best in Luke 9:23, “Then he said to them all, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Do you want to know that the creator of the universe is in control and that NOTHING that happens in your life is beyond His control…then, YOU MUST SURRENDER YOUR WILL TO HIM….and YOU MUST SEEK TO MAKE HIS WILL, YOURS!!!
It’s really just that simple…..Let God be in control because He is in charge in your life.
Do it today and your will experience a peace you have never known….
FOR WHEN GOD IS FOR US…WHO CAN POSSIBLY STAND AGAINST US?
Surrendering to Him…One Moment at a Time,
WPQ
Thought for the Day:
If the trials of life should weigh you down
And your burdens seem too great to bear.
Just carry them to your Father’s throne
And prayerfully leave them there.
For God is always on your side,
In Him, you will find rest.
When you seek to do the Father’s will…
By Him, you will be blest.
Nov. 2010
As I mentioned in my last writing, I am now comfortably re-established at home with my list of “honey-do’s” well within reach of completion; therefore, I would like to embark on a 5-part series that I hope will help us answer the question I posed above.
If you are like so many of the people in this world, it is hard some days to put your feet on the floor to get out of bed…I mean, why bother with the state of world affairs. And unfortunately, this same attitude seems to be held by many of us who call ourselves Christians.
For the next few days, I want us to search the Scriptures and hear from our Heavenly Father as to how we can live confidently in these chaotic days.
First and foremost, we can live confidently for GOD IS IN CONTROL.
In Genesis 1:1-3a, 4a, 6a, we read, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and darkness was over the surface of the deep and Spirit of God was hovering above the waters. AND GOD SAID, Let there be light……AND GOD SAID, let there be an expanse….AND GOD SAID, Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky….”
God was in CONTROL and He spoke EVERYTHING into existence….GOD SAID IT …and IT WAS SO!!!!!!!!
The entirety of God’s Word tells us in no uncertain terms that God is in control. It speaks with great authority concerning God’s omniscience and his omnipresence and it tells us time and time again that nothing in this world happens without the Father’s knowledge….that fact alone should bring us solace in times of distress.
However, though God is in control, He must also be IN CHARGE if He is to produce a calm spirit when we stand on the precipice of being swallowed up in the chaos of a sinful world. Since the beginning of time our great, awesome and all-powerful God has never forced His will on us; rather He has waited for us to invite him into our lives and he has patiently courted us to give him our hearts.
Jesus said it best in Luke 9:23, “Then he said to them all, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Do you want to know that the creator of the universe is in control and that NOTHING that happens in your life is beyond His control…then, YOU MUST SURRENDER YOUR WILL TO HIM….and YOU MUST SEEK TO MAKE HIS WILL, YOURS!!!
It’s really just that simple…..Let God be in control because He is in charge in your life.
Do it today and your will experience a peace you have never known….
FOR WHEN GOD IS FOR US…WHO CAN POSSIBLY STAND AGAINST US?
Surrendering to Him…One Moment at a Time,
WPQ
Thought for the Day:
If the trials of life should weigh you down
And your burdens seem too great to bear.
Just carry them to your Father’s throne
And prayerfully leave them there.
For God is always on your side,
In Him, you will find rest.
When you seek to do the Father’s will…
By Him, you will be blest.
Nov. 2010
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