Trusting His Plan

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.” - Proverbs 27:1

Predictability. A term often referred to as the fine art of knowing what is going to happen in the future based completely on past events. There are times I wish I had a crystal ball in life. To rub the fine polished glass, and see the swirling fog within part and reveal the answer to life’s questions. Just think of the success you could be in the stock market or in forecasting economic declines or growth. You could envision that perfect someone to fall in love with, and know the outcome of your relationship before you ever went on the first date.

When I was a teenager there was a board game called Ouiji board. This is not to debate the spiritual or demonic nature of this game but rather to reflect on the silliness of teenagers at predicting what tomorrow might bring. I remember playing with my siblings and cousins, and watching as the marker moved over the game board as if powered by spirits with a message. “Does she like me?” …..slowly it would move to Yes. “Will we get married?” …. again it would move to Yes. Silly questions on the minds of a teenager in love. Well, despite what the Ouiji board said, I am now blessed and happily married 24 years to a woman I didn’t even know when I sat playing that game at the tender age of 13. I guess it just goes to show, that despite how much we want to predict the future and establish our own destiny in life – the Lord has a much better plan.

There was a Garth Brooks song several years ago, “Unanswered Prayers”. The lines in the chorus articulate the truth of the song:

Remember when you're talkin' to the man upstairs
That just because he doesn't answer doesn't mean he don't care
Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers

How many times have you prayed for something, knowing without a doubt that it was the right thing and that God would have to see it your way? Then to watch patiently and it doesn’t come to pass. A week goes by, then another and then a month and a year. Have you ever challenged God for not delivering on your prayers? Take a look back at the times in your life when you prayed for that special someone or something to happen, only to have God take it in a completely different direction. I’ve found that His plan has always been better for me than my plans and I’m so much more blessed as a result. There are also those circumstances in my life where God has placed the right thing to do in my life and I’ve decided to go a different path for one reason or another, only to look back and see how He had a blessing waiting for me that I missed.

In the scriptures we see Peter rebuking the Lord when He explains that the Son of Man must suffer and be killed and then rise again. Peter with complete passion and little understanding of what God had in the plan, responded with emotion and human knowledge. He tried to defend His rabbi and demonstrate that he knew where Christ was heading – to the throne of a king. Peter could not see the events that would unfold that very evening in the garden, in the palace, the courtyards and the fortress dungeons. In no way could Peter have predicted the events that would unfold the following morning in the streets and on the hillside of Calvary. Even hearing his Lord’s words did not open Peter’s eyes to the sacrifice and resurrection that was to follow in the next few days.

We are no different than Peter in this light. When will Christ return and take us home? When will something tragic happen in your life and carry you to your Father in heaven? You don’t know what tomorrow brings, but you do know the Creator and Almighty Maker of heaven and earth; who does know the future. His crystal ball is perfectly clear on your life, but you need to trust in His plan as the best plan for you, despite how much you might want to go a different route. God’s plan is always perfect.

PRAYER:
Almighty Father,
We come before You tonight with our hearts open for Your will to be known in our life. You have a perfect plan for growing us in strength, wisdom, compassion, righteousness and love that we might serve You in the best possible manner. Forgive us for turning a different direction Lord, and push through our arrogance and independence to convict us to seek Your will in all things. We trust that You want nothing but the best for us, and that You will bring us to complete salvation through our faith in Your grace. We stand upon Your promises and lift these things in Your name – Amen.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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“David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished.” – 1 Chronicles 28:20

 

There are challenges in life, then there are those things which seem so unbelievable that often times, we just want to give up.  These challenges occur at work, at school, at home, with the kids, finances, health and numerous other areas of daily activity. I can speak from personal experience that there are days when I just want to throw my hands up and give up, and I’m sure you have those as well.  There are those times when it’s hard to imagine that God is involved or even cares.  These are the times when our faith is tested, the resiliency of our trust in His love and mercy is put front and center to be evaluated.

She was a young women in the Netherlands during World War II.  Her father had been very active in the Dutch Underground, helping Jews avoid capture and the brutality of Nazi concentration camps.  A firm believer in the love and grace of God, Corrie ten Boom tells the story of the trials of not only hiding Jews and others in her home, but also the time in the concentration camp, after being captured herself.  In her book, The Hiding Place, she describes the horror and abusive brutality of the guards in the concentration camps.  She talks of the death of her sister Betsie and quotes her as saying, “There is no plt so deep that God’s love is not deeper still.”  In the face of death, Betsie held true to God’s love and mercy as her strength.  Corrie was released 2 weeks later on New Years Eve, December 1944.  She later discovered that her release was due to a clerical error, and that all other women her age were killed the very next week.  Her comment, “God does not have problems, only plans.”, became a cornerstone of how she would spend the next 40 years of her life as a speaker and writer, telling the world about God’s love and purpose.

Faith takes trust.

Faith takes a persistent patience.

Faith takes peace in the unknown.

Faith takes courage.

God never leaves your side, you just have to have faith that His love is bigger than your problem.

Heavenly Father,
Bless me oh Lord with a faith as solid as those that have gone before.  Help me to live with courage like David, Solomon, the prophets and the disciples.  In a world that is filled with lies and evil, grant me the strength and courage to stand strong for what I know to be the truth.  Holy Spirit convict me to be righteous and loving to all that I meet, even those with an evil intent.  Pour out Your love through me, that their hearts may be softened.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Stop and Breathe

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”  - Colossians 3:13

I remember a quote from C.S. Lewis – “Everyone says forgiveness is a lovely idea, until they have something to forgive.”  It is often easy to talk about what you might do in a certain circumstance until that circumstance hits home.  There have been many times in my life when others have done something that left me hurt, angry and feeling very vengeful.  I don’t think there is any point in my life I felt less a Christian though.

As a believer in Christ I am held to constantly check my attitude for feelings of selfishness, greed, contempt and revenge.  It is so much more difficult to execute than to discuss.  How many times have I shot off a response to someone who wrongs me without thinking through the consequences and ramifications that would result.  How often have I thought only of myself without considering the other person’s point of view or what might have led them to do what they had done.  There is no way to go through this life without confrontation and without our feelings being hurt by another.  The key is in how we react and whether or not we can represent the love of Jesus Christ in our reaction.

In his book, Sources of Strength, President Jimmy Carter shared:
“After a personal witnessing experience with Eloy Cruz, an admirable Cuban pastor who had surprising rapport with very poor immigrants from Puerto Rico, I asked him for the secret of his success. He was modest and embarrassed, but he finally said, ‘Senor Jimmy, we only need to have two loves in our lives. For God, and for the person who happens to be in front of us at any time.’ That simple yet profound theology has been a great help to me in understanding the Scriptures. In essence, the whole Bible is an explanation of those two loves.”

You see, before reacting; if you stop and breathe, consider the other person’s, and realize that as a Christian we are to love them like Jesus it helps.  I’m not saying that the feelings go away, but the anger is minimized into a reaction based on God’s love instead.  Regardless of the immediate feelings we might have for someone based on a given situation, we must always remind ourselves that God’s grace and forgiveness is great enough for even the most heinous acts.  Controlling our emotions and anger towards others actions will result in a stronger relationship with God the Father, and you’ll be amazed at how much it goes toward helping the perpetrator realize the error of their ways. 

Heavenly Father,
You have given me life, filled me with love and provided grace and mercy to secure my salvation.  I am unworthy of everything you have given me, and yet I am so grateful that You have chosen to accept me despite my unrighteousness.  Thank You for the grace and forgiveness through Your Son – Jesus Christ.  Help me to reflect Your love to those who have offended me and give me the peace to find forgiveness and mercy for them.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Speed of Dark

“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.  But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” – Matthew 6:22-23

For those of you who have studied physics will know that the speed of light is a constant calculated to be 186,282 miles per second.  So if the sun is 150 million km (93.75 million miles) then it takes 503 seconds (8m 23s) for a portion of sunlight to reach the earth.  Numerous scientists, mathematicians and physicists have studied and studied the speed of light over the last two centuries to determine the exactness of the calculations.  So, now that we know this little bit of information – what is the speed of dark?

Hmmm…..the closest someone has ever come to putting a formula against the speed of dark is to state: 1/speed of light.  This indicates it is the inversion of the speed of light or the opposite of the speed of light.  As light diminishes, darkness grows.  Therefore, darkness is the absence of light and has no actual speed.  When light is introduced into darkness, the brighter the light (in lumens) the more dissipated the darkness becomes.  Walk into an absolutely dark room, close the door and you are enveloped in darkness.  Reach for the light switch on the wall, and by the time you have taken your hand away from the switch the room is suddenly enveloped in light (assuming the light bulb works).  Light when introduced eliminates the darkness.

Many will question that if God created all things, He must have created evil.  To this there is but one answer.  Evil happens in this world, to that point we can all agree.  Like light, cold exists only in the absence of heat and evil exists only in the absence of good.  God’s presence in this world is good and righteous.  The choice is given to man to accept this goodness and reflect that goodness back into the world.  Evil exists in the world where God’s love has been denied and it is reflected throughout.  The more we study God’s word, spend time in building that relationship and sharing His love; the stronger the presence of goodness is enjoyed.

What our eyes see is captured in our brain, analyzed, filtered and absorbed into our knowledge.  As we cast our eyes upon evil and unrighteousness, so will our mind, heart and soul absorb these things.  Focus your vision on those things which are good, wholesome and righteous, and let those things penetrate your mind, heart and soul.  For in doing so, God’s light becomes brighter and shines so that others might see Him in you.
Heavenly Father,
You are worthy of all glory and praise.  You have given all things holy and righteous that we might become stronger witnesses for You.  Help us to focus on these things and take our eyes, our mind and our vision away from evil in this world.  Help us to understand Your goodness Lord, that it pours out from within and lights the path in front of us.  We are wonderfully made to be a light to those around us, strengthen us to hold true to Your teaching and Your word.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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The Scales Fell

"I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ. ”   - Galatians 1:12

Where does it come from - our knowledge of God? Can man give this wisdom to another? Certainly you can read the scriptures and learn more each and every day about God, but where did the initial knowledge come from?

Some will say that there is a hole in your heart that can only be filled by God. Some say that there are "God Spots" in the brain that rationalize our spiritual thoughts and seek out these things. It boggles my mind though that two babies born in the same hospital at the same time are so incredibly different from that moment on. Any spiritual influence that took place during the creation and maternity period is immediately overthrown by the real world influence of the people they are going home with. One goes home to praises and thanksgiving to the Lord; and the other goes home to a home where the Lord is not known. In the later, the influences upon that child will establish his/her lack of a belief system relative to Godly things. Just as was the case with Paul in the bible.

Paul, the apostle, was an accomplished, well studied Jew on the path to become a Pharisee. He had years of excelling at the scriptures, knowing them forwards and backwards. He had a depth of knowledge of all the ways and customs from Abraham through Isaac and Jacob and David and the prophets. For you see it was handed down from Rabbi to Rabbi and from family member to family member in those days. Paul would have been found often sitting with a Rabbi, learning and studying God's word. Even so, as he states here in Galatians 1:12 - the gospel was received directly from Jesus Christ.

It is no different today my friends. We can listen to man, to our Pastor and our families; we can turn on TBN or Daystar and watch your favorite mega-church minister and be encouraged. All of this knowledge and learning is good and will help you come to a deeper relationship with Christ, but this is not where the gospel was revealed to you. For you see you cannot add to God's message or blessings. Upon your calling and salvation the spirit of Jesus Christ Himself fills you with purpose and truth.

In John 12:39-41 we learn that "...God has blinded the eyes..." of some that do not acknowledge Him as Lord. What will cause the scales to fall from their eyes, just as they did from Paul's eyes? For the word is there for them, but they have chosen to refuse it and in doing so refuse Christ. Without His revelation in their life, the scriptures are nothing but a fantasy book. You cannot save these people either. For as we hear in this scripture, it is not by man, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. So it is with those you are praying for.

But do not lose hope my friends, for your prayers are not in vane. Your words are falling upon the ears of the Lord and He hears all things. Your love and compassion are meaningful, for the Lord's desire is that All mankind is saved from the depths of Hell. Your walk is just as meaningful, for you are under the microscope as an example to these individuals. Their desire is to justify their decision by pointing out your errors and hypocrisies, so be in the word my friend that you might remain strong in the Lord.

© Sondove Enterprise, 2011
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The Lemming

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” 
                                                                                                                                        - 2 Timothy 1:7

Alone – unique and unafraid.  Have you ever been in a situation where you were the only one with a certain opinion or experience.  Charles Swindoll once ran a test at a university where 10 students were put in a room and on the board were drawn three lines.  The students were asked to raise their hand when the longest line was pointed to.  Prior to the test beginning, 9 of the students were told (secretly) to raise their hand when the second longest line was pointed to.  The test was intended to confirm that individuals will follow the pack even though he/she knew it was the wrong answer.  So when the professor pointed to the correct line (the longest line) the one student would raise their hand, observe themselves to be the only one and then lower their hand, most times embarrassed.  This happened 75% of the time, as students from grade school through high school were tested.  The conclusion was reached that most people would rather be popular than be right.  (C. Swindoll, March 1984)

Most are familiar with another term often used to describe those that will follow the crowd fully knowing that the actions are wrong – Lemming.  Several years ago Disney documented the life of these furry animals as one of following without thinking.  As a group of lemmings come to a cliff overlooking the ocean, the first one jumps.  Then hundreds of them follow suit and jump off the cliff to their death in the deep, icy waters of the North Atlantic.  Not a single lemming turned back to do the right thing.  Was the first one evil and intending to lead the rest off the cliff or was it a lack of good judgment by the community?

The bible makes clear in Proverbs 14:12 that the ways of man will lead to death, while Romans 12:2 tells us not conform to the ways of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of our mind with righteous things and a focus on God’s will.  It’s hard to stand up to the crowd, but it is essential when we know the result is against our Savior’s plan.  Making a decision to follow the ways of the world, and then being angry at God when things go wrong is nothing but foolishness.  We each make decisions, right / wrong ; good / bad ; popular / unpopular and we must be held accountable of those decisions we make in life.  God has given you the power, wisdom, strength and courage to do what is right, despite how unpopular the decision is in life.  My philosophy has always been this – would I do this if Jesus Christ were with me or if Jesus Christ returns right now, is this where I want to be.

The Holy Spirit is with you at all times, for those of us that have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord.  Being popular and in the cool crowd is not the purpose of life.  We need to put on an attitude of eternity and realize that every decision we make today, draws us closer to our Savior and His plan for us or it pushes us away.  Don’t become a lemming and follow other’s to your demise.  Stand on His promise for self-discipline, righteousness and love; and help the crowd see His plan.
Heavenly Father,
Forgive us Lord for following man’s ways.  Forgive us for choosing popularity over purity.  Help us to know the error of our ways and to retreat from unrighteous behavior.  Holy Spirit - convict our hearts that we might realize when we are outside of your will for us.  Teach us to stand strong in Your ways and to run from those who refuse to.  We love You and long to do Your will – In Jesus name I pray – Amen.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Nothing to Fear

“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.”
-Proverbs 29:25

What are you most afraid of? Not in the over dramatic, get attention way; no I mean really come to a point where you without a doubt shaking in your boots afraid. You know, your palms are sweaty, your mouth is dry, your heart beats faster and you mind races with images of potential outcomes long before anything happens. Armed robbery, violence, natural disasters, war, and dare I say terrorism are all examples of things many people are afraid of in life. A recent survey though detailed the top 10 things that people fear:
Performing or giving a talk
Speaking in front of large audiences
Being the center of attention
Meeting new people
Interviewing for a job or taking an exam
Talking to a person in authority
Working while someone watches
Entering a room when others are already present
Talking with people you don’t know
Going to parties or social gatherings

I found this list rather surprising. I travel the world speaking in front of large audiences, meeting new people and being the center of attention. I’ve never came to a point of significant fear around any of these items, although I can understand why some might.

The point of the discussion though is that when we allow fear to creep into our lives, it allows our self esteem, courage and confidence to be shaken. Often times we allow fear of situations at work or in school to fill our minds with negativity. In turn this can lead to feelings of inadequacy, incompetence and failure. God has provided a sense of purpose, righteousness and self value that is far from fear. He has assured us that He is our strength and that all things are possible through Him. Nothing that man can put in front of you can stand against the mighty power of your heavenly Father.

We learn in Psalm 27, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Take a hold of this promise when you are faced with situations that cause you to fear. Be it fear of embarrassment, fear of harm or even the fear of the unknown – God is with you always, and He will not leave your side. You are an overcomer in this world, and you need to stand tall against the authority of this world. This doesn’t suggest disrespect, but do not live in fear of these individuals. Your only concern should be in pleasing the Lord, not in the approval and act of pleasing mankind.

PRAYER:
Heavenly Father,
We rejoice in Your holiness Lord. We find comfort in Your grace and Your promise to always be with us. To watch over us, keep us free from harm and to protect us from the enemy. Help us to find confidence in You when we are faced with trials and temptations in this land. We rest in knowing that we are overcomers through Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. In Jesus name we pray. - Amen

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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The Old Tractor

“…‘Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius?  Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you.  Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?” – Matthew 20:13-15
Inequality – It’s Not Fare – Jealousy – Envy – Lust – Greed – Cheated - Betrayed

What other words can you think of to describe the emotions that run through our mind when we feel someone has wronged us?  It’s so hard in today’s world to take one’s eyes off of our own struggles, our own trials and focus on the blessings and joy that God has provided for us uniquely.  We find it easy to praise God and to rejoice with others as long as we are getting our fare share of the spoils, but what constitutes a fare share?

This parable found in Matthew 20:1-16 tells us that God’s love, His generosity, His grace and His eternal blessing is equally available to all mankind.  Why should this bother us so much?  Why should we be angered when another person accepts the graciousness and beauty of God’s salvation?  If someone’s life is completely unrighteous and filthy as seen through our eyes, isn’t the plan of salvation just as important for that person as it is for the person who has tried to live righteously? 

It’s like this.  A farmer’s tractor break’s down right in the middle of the harvest season.  He hits his knees that night and prays for God’s blessings and help in this situation, so he might finish the harvesting of his crop before the rains come.  The next day as the farmer was going to town he passed by another farm, where an aged tractor sat by the road, with a sign on it – “FREE – Just pay for the gas”  He walked up to the door to inquire, feeling unbelievably blessed that the Lord would answer his prayer this way.  When the door opened, a young man stood there with a baby in his arms and a few more toddlers by his feet; his eyes were red and puffy.  The farmer asked, “Sir – are you giving away your tractor?”  Nodding, the young man said, “Yes I am, as long as you pay for the gas to get it back to your place.”  The farmer couldn’t believe it, so he asked “Does it run, and will it work for harvesting my fields?”  With a smile, he replied, “Without a doubt, it’s solid and trustworthy.  My father meticulously took care of it ever since I was a kid.”  The farmer counted it a blessing and wasted no time, “I’ll take it young man.” And they shook hands to seal the deal.

 Later in the day, the farmer got a ride back to pick up the tractor and there was a line of trucks and cars in the young man’s drive way.  As the farmer made his way through the crowd he found the young man.  “I’ve come to get the tractor.”  He couldn’t help but ask, “Sir, what are all of these people doing here?”  The young man with tears in his eyes said to the farmer, “They are here for the same reason as you.  I am giving it all away.  You see my father ran this farm, and died this past week.  I know nothing of running a farm and need none of this stuff, so I’m giving it all away.  Here are the keys to the tractor, take good care of it, won’t you?”  Looking around the farmer noticed all of the things being loaded into trucks, and hooked to the back of trucks to be towed away.  He said to the young man, “I’m sorry about your father, I truly am, but why didn’t you tell me you were giving all of this away?  I would have taken it all off your hands.”  Biting his lower lip, the young man managed to say, “My father loved this community and it was his wish that his love be shared with all of them.  I was hoping you would still be grateful for the free tractor.”  The farmer walked away but couldn’t help from feeling jealous, cheated and less than grateful as he hoped aboard the aged tractor.  Turning the key, it started perfectly and the farmer pulled away toward his farm, for there was still much work to be done.

We are conditioned to never be satisfied.  The latest gadget comes out and we have to have it.  The neighbor gets a new car, and all of a sudden my car isn’t quite as good anymore.  We need to learn to be content in what the Lord has provided for us.  Count the blessings you do have, rather than focusing on those you do not have.  When all is said and done, is there anything more valuable than an eternity with God the Father? 

Heavenly Father,
Maker of all things, You have blessed me with health, joy, a wonderful family and a roof over my head.  You have met all of my needs and then some, and I stand before You spoiled by Your grace, love and mercy.  Thank You for Your plan of salvation and for providing for my family’s needs.  I ask You Lord to bless those who are less fortunate, provide shelter for those who are homeless and food for those who are hungry.  Help me be a vessel of Your love to all that I meet.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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You've Gotta Own It

“I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” – 2 Timothy 1:5

Over the years I have had several conversations with folks about their faith.  Quite randomly at times, and other times with intention of learning more about my brothers and sisters in Christ.  Time and time again I am confronted with the situation where the question – “So tell me, how do you know you’re a Christian?” spawns a reaction of something along these lines – “Well, my mother always read the Bible to us, and she was in the Church choir.  She and my father were always in church it seemed.  Our family is very religious you know.”

Many believe that their relationship with Jesus Christ was handed to them or is the result of something that was given to them.  The scripture tells us in John 1:11-13 (and I paraphrase) that God came to those who would receive him, not because of their ancestors or a spouse will, but personally born again of God.  In Romans 10:10, it tells us “It is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”  Your relationship with Christ may have been initiated through a family member, or friend; but it must be something you personally own.  If you were the only person in all of time, realize that Christ still would have gone to the cross for your salvation and redemption.

We are all separated from God, from the moment we are born until the time in which we make that personal commitment to follow Him.  This separation is not something we choose, but something we are born into.  This is what is handed down from generation to generation all the way back to Adam and Eve’s original sin.  Therefore, each man, woman and child is personally responsible for their eternal destination. Their personal choice to accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord is not something that can be handed down or made by a parent, spouse or friend.  Your eternal destination is completely up to you, and you’ve gotta own it.

Heavenly Father,
You are loving, all powerful and full of grace.  We are unworthy of Your love and acceptance, yet You pour it out daily for us to walk in.  Thank You for providing a path to eternity with You, through Your Son – Jesus Christ.  I am literally amazed every time I think about how incredible Your love for me is, and how wonderful it is to be part of Your Kingdom.  I long for the days to come where I can sit at Your feet and worship You forever more.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Who Am I?

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.”  - 1 Corinthians 12:4-5
I’ve come to a stage in life where I spend much of my time reflecting on how I got here and how did the last 30 years pass by so quickly.  I have found that every one of us have the tendency to look back at our lives and wonder, did I do enough, could I have done it differently, what would have happened if…, or why did such and such have to happen.  We learn from our experiences, sometimes those of us, like me, who are thickheaded or stubborn, have to experience things multiple times to actually learn from it.  A mentor of mine once told me that each of us contribute to society based on 3 basic fundamental elements: Skills we have learned; knowledge we have gained and Gifts given from the Lord.

If you think about it, life is filled with experiences that will shape our future actions and perspective on challenges we are going to face.  When we learn from these experiences we become better equipped and better understand the impact of decisions we are faced with.  The simplest example is to watch the children absorb what’s going on around them, and then either mimic it or avoid it based on whether the outcome is seen as good or not.  The knowledge we gain from our education, books, media and conversations help to expand our horizons.  Face it, there is more information available today than any time in history.  Take a moment to step back and realize just how much you know about other countries, cultures, politics and religions from what you have heard or learned, rather than from actually experiencing.  But, information is not knowledge, it is only the catalyst for knowledge.  Each of us retain that which is important for our walk in life and thereby choose the limitations and breadth of our knowledge. 

Finally, we each bring gifts to bear on the pathway of life.  The scriptures tell us that God has provided each of us with spiritual gifts and talents that make us unique in everything we do.  Some are creative, some are nurturers, some are teachers, some are compassionate, some are analytical – the list goes on and on.  The characteristics and mannerisms that make each of us unique were built into our DNA at conception and are strengthened throughout or life.  Realizing what these key gifts or talents are help us find our place in God’s plan.  These gifts were given to each of you to use for His Kingdom and to help His children find their way home.

This weekend take a piece of paper and divide it into three sections.  Title one section Skills, the next section Knowledge and the third section Gifts.  Now list the top 5 things that come to mind in each area: The top 5 things you’re good at doing; the top 5 things you know that help you in life; and the top 5 gifts/talents that make you who you are.  Tape this list to the mirror in your bathroom.  This is who God made you to be – this is who you have become.  Every day ask yourself – “How am I going to use what God has given me to improve the world.”  Then go and do it.
Heavenly Father,
I am miraculously formed from Your creative breath.  At the moment of conception You were already building and shaping me into the person that I am today.  You have given me unique gifts and talents to better serve You and Your children.  Help me to realize these gifts and use them to the fullest of my capability to expand Your Kingdom.  Thank You for making me exactly the way I am and for providing me the opportunities in life to bring You glory.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Becoming Peaceful

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. " - Matthew 5:9

I've noticed that I am becoming my father and my children are becoming me. I believe it is and always has been this way. Little things that are so familiar between a child and his/her parent becoming a part of their personality and characteristics. Some of these are good and some of these aren't so good, but they are all an example of lessons learned through a lifelong relationship with someone you love. I even noticed it in my 3 1/2 year old Emma Noel. I recall one time, I was standing by the wall talking with a friend when she walked over and leaned against the wall with the exact same mannerisms. It was somewhat funny to watch her fold her arms, cross her one leg over the other and lean against the wall, listening to the stories shared between friends about politics, weather and the general state of life. She nodded her head when I did and shifted her balance just so, as I did. I'm sure you have similar stories of your children or you becoming like your parents. Feel free to share them in the comments or email, it's always fascinating to hear.

So, how do we become more Godlike? Jesus Christ was God incarnate (God in human form, embodied in flesh). We discover that by following the teachings of Jesus Christ we can discover just who God is and thereby strengthen who we are in Him. Jesus personified peace, love, justice, forgiveness and righteousness while walking upon this earth. The Jewish people at the time were living in fear of Rome and had been waiting for Messiah to come and break their bondage. What they were expecting was an earthly King. Stately in posture, presence and demeanor. Powerful enough to overthrow Rome, and take leadership in the Hebrew nation. Their desires were based on their knowledge, their history and who they had seen rise to the top in the past - Saul, David, Solomon to name a few.

A son of any man in those days carried forth the legacy of the family. The wisdom passed on from generation to generation from the father's teaching would establish the strength in which the son would live out his life. It was expected that the son would follow in his father's footsteps with resepect to their trade or craft. So here we find Jesus, the son of Joseph the carpenter, sitting upon a hill telling those who would listen what it takes to be a son of God. Where are his credentials, what gives him the audacity to claim this knowledge and talk about it in public. Some were amazed at his wisdom. He spoke of things they had never heard before. None of his teachings were in the old text's, yet he spoke as if they were common knowledge for all. He spoke of meek, purity, hungry, merciful and now peacemakers? He couldn't be the coming King - the Messiah - for these characteristics are very counter intuitive to their expectations.

In hindsight of course we know that He indeed was a son of God, so who better to lay out the requirements and characteristics. But, what does it mean to be a peacemaker? Someone who is living in, breathing and creating a peaceful existance for themselves and those around them. Of all of the people in the world today and those that have walked the earth for the last few thousands years, they have always been seeking peace. Wars, violence and death have been the formidible foe since the early days recorded in Genesis, right up through the angry mobs in Jerusalem screaming, "Crucify Him~ Crucify Him." Man has sought peace from these acts of war and violence throughout history. Similarly, man has sought and waited upon God throughout history. Here we find Peace and "...called sons of God." lumped together. This one verse has likely became a staple in cultures, believers and non-believers alike. This leads to the real question, "Are we seeking peace from society, the world, or our own inner struggles?"

Jesus Christ walked the earth for 32 years and ministered for just over 2 years. In that 2 year period He took men and women and taught them very intimately how to become followers and apostles of the one true God. With first hand guidance and experience He showered them with love and peace, such that they in turn would carry forward after His death and resurrection these traits. Just like you and I have learned by following our parents throughout our life, the intimacy between this group of disciples over that 2 years would have seemed like a lifetime to most. They learned and carried forward his teachings, and it has continued through to this very day where nearly every person in the world would agree that we need to discover peace in the world. Just as Jesus showed them how in those days we need to walk, and breath in His commandments today such that it becomes blatantly evidenced to whom we belong. The evidence will be such that others will see God through you as you follow this man - Jesus Christ.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Like a Child

“And he said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” - Matthew 18:3

When Einstein fled Nazi Germany, he came to America and bought an old two-story house within walking distance of Princeton University. There he entertained some of the most distinguished people of his day and discussed with them issues as far ranging as physics to human rights.

But Einstein had another frequent visitor. She was not, in the world’s eyes, an important person like his other guests. She was a ten-year-old girl named Emmy. Emmy heard that a very kind man who knew a lot about mathematics had moved into her neighborhood. Since she was having trouble with her fifth-grade arithmetic, she decided to visit the man down the block and see if he would help her with her problems. Einstein was very willing and explained everything to her so that she could understand it. He also told her she was welcome to come anytime she needed help.

A few weeks later, one of the neighbors told Emmy’s mother that Emmy was often seen entering the house of the world-famous physicist. Horrified, she told her daughter that Einstein was a very important man, whose time was very valuable, and he couldn’t be bothered with the problems of a little schoolgirl. And then she rushed over to Einstein’s house, and when Einstein answered the door, she started trying to blurt out an apology for her daughter’s intrusion – for being such a bother. But Einstein cut her off. He said, “She has not been bothering me! When a child finds such joy in learning, then it is my joy to help her learn! Please don’t stop Emmy from coming to me with her school problems. She is welcome in this house anytime.”  (Peter Kennedy, © 2000, Devotional E-mail, “It is His Joy”)

God is the same way.  Many of us neglect to take our concerns before God Almighty, because of that very reason – He is God Almighty.  If Jesus Christ moved into your neighborhood, would you be at His doorstep every day seeking His counsel, His advice and His blessing?  Some might say no to this.  Some might say, “He doesn’t want anything to do with me, He’s far too important?”  Others might be ashamed of their lack of faith or unrighteousness and would avoid coming face to face with Jesus Christ.  Understand though, God’s house is open to all who seek Him and His promise of eternal life, and to all of those who desire to experience His grace and mercy. 

But God’s word is clear on this – in Titus 2:11, ”For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men”  His grace is for all mankind through His Son Jesus Christ.  God’s love is unchanging, unmovable and ever present for those who want to accept it.  There is nothing He hasn’t heard or seen before, and His forgiveness is great enough for even the most unmentionable sins.  One cannot say that His redeeming blood is sufficient for this sin, but not that one.  No, if it is sufficient for the smallest sin, it is sufficient for the greatest sin.  The denial and blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is the only condition that can keep a man from experience God’s forgiveness and grace (Matthew 12:30-32).

Heavenly Father,
You are high and lifted up.  We praise and lift our worship to You that Your glory might be known to man.  Humbly I come before You, asking for Your strength and perseverance in life’s trials.  I draw nearer to exhaustion as the days blend together, but I hold strong in Your purpose and will in my life.  I lean on You for wisdom, courage and confidence to pursue that which You have called me to do.  I stand in awe and amazement at Your loving grace for me in knowing all that I have done, Your forgiveness and mercy still remain.  I ask for Your continued blessing on my life and let my voice be heard to those who need to hear.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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The Biggest Lie

“You cannot drink from the cup of the Lord and from the cup of demons, too. You cannot eat at the Lord's Table and at the table of demons, too.” – 1 Corinthians 10:21

A man walks into the small room and kneels to pray.  A woman walks into the room next to him and she kneels to pray.  A child walks into the third room and kneels to pray.  As the camera view widens and the viewer gets a picture of the doors to all three rooms at once, there is a line of people standing outside of each that stretches for hundreds of feet.  A closer look at each door one recognizes a Cross on one door, a Dharma Wheel on another and a Star and Crescent on the third door.  A passerby sees the three lines and asks, “Which line should I get in?”  A person standing in line replies, “It doesn’t matter, does it?  We all pray to the same God.”  Shrugging his shoulders our passerby steps into line behind the other.

So many people today follow along these lines that all religions are the same.  They believe in one God, but believe there are many ways to reach God and the choice of religious faith is non-important.  Those of Muslim faith believe in Allah; the Buddhist believe in Buddha; the Jewish believe in Yahweh, while Christians believe in the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Ghost) and divinity of Jesus Christ.  This confusion in the world today has caused wars; families to separate and people to be put to death because of their differences.  Satan is masterful at causing us to question God’s existence and God’s love for mankind.  His intent is to remove individuals from God’s saving grace by any means possible and this confusion is one weapon that has been very effective.

Jesus Christ came, not as a prophet, not as an earthly king, nor as a self proclaiming God; but as a humble servant of the One and only most high God.  His life represented the perfection of God, the love of God and the miraculous authority of God.  In His death, He gave it all so that you and I would have eternal fellowship with God the Father.  As Satan rejoiced in supposed victory, God brought forth His only Son from the grave.  Even death could not stop the Father’s plan of salvation.  Jesus left the Holy Spirit to dwell in each of us who are saved, so that God is always with us.  Jesus then ascended to heaven to sit at God’s right hand until the day of judgment, when every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that He is the Lord of Lords

There is but One God – in Holy trinity – the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost.
There is but one path to righteousness and this is through the Messiah, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
There are many false doctrines created and brought forth by Satan, in an attempt to divide and conquer God’s children.  Do not become confused.  Drink from the cup at the Lord’s table and study His word, and experience His grace.  There is no other which is equal, despite what the world will tell you.

Heavenly Father,
You are the One and only God, Almighty.  You reign above all things and have created all things.  Your grace is poured out on mankind through the blood of Jesus Christ and Your promise for salvation is true only through His redemption.  Help me to be strong and focused on Your love, Your word and Your grace.  Guard my mind and heart from the world’s distractions and help me to be a light to those in darkness, that they may also see Your glorious love.  Protect me from harm and guide my steps to follow Your lead.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Finding a Hero

“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” – Acts 4:13

Every one of us has felt the sting of feeling unworthy.  If you have been a Christian a short time or a long time, you have likely asked the question – “Why would God want me?”  The truth of the matter is, not one of us, not a single one is worthy of God’s love for us or for eternity with Him in heaven.  Face it, there have been times in your life where you have done unthinkable acts and pursued the worldly values of unrighteousness, for the temporary pleasure it will bring.  This is where we all stand today – filled with shame and embarrassed by the choices we have made in life.  Now enter God’s grace.  Despite all that we have done or said or thought, God still loves you and I enough to offer us eternity with Him, if we so choose to accept it.

There was a farm boy from North Carolina with his eyes set on following his dreams right into the big leagues.  He wanted nothing more than to play professional baseball and all that came along with that dream.  He was a tall strapping young teenager with a bent towards fighting for what he believed in.  When he heard about this revival that had come to town, he decided it would be fun to see if he (and his friend) could challenge the speaker, so they went on in.  At 16, this religion stuff was seen as frivolous and a waste of time, meant for the senior citizens and women, not for the star athletes.  Yet, by the end of the night, something was pulling him from within, changing his hard heartedness.  He went home that night, but couldn’t shake the feeling of unworthiness and unrighteousness that haunted his mind.  He decided to go back the second night, along with his friend and by the end of the service had found his true hero, not in Babe Ruth, but rather in Jesus Christ.  It was the summer of 1934 when Billy Graham and Grady Wilson stepped forth to accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and the world has not been the same since.

God looks at you and sees incredible potential for His Kingdom.  Just as He looked at Peter and John, fisherman mending their nets; and He looked at Billy Graham or Mother Teresa or the Sunday School teacher at your local small town church.  Each of us have the opportunity to truly give our life to the Lord and make a difference in the lives of others, but we have to make the choice and commit ourselves to the work of the Lord.  What is God saying to you right now?  What are you going to do about it?
Heavenly Father,
In this life we are given choices to live for You.  Through Your grace we are given new life in Jesus Christ, and the opportunity to use that life for Your Kingdom.  Help us dear Lord to see through the worldly obstacles and understand the plan You have for us.  Remove the scales from our eyes and the callousness from our hearts that we might have faith and trust in You, and do Your work.  In Your name I pray – Amen.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Blind Trust

“I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” – Psalm 121:1-2

I had never heard of Casting Crowns before that Spring of 2005.  We had just come from our first of many visit’s to the University of Iowa Pediatric Neurosurgery unit with many questions and uncertainties.  My daughter, Samantha, had been diagnosed with spinal stenosis.  Her spinal column was too narrow for her spinal cord which was putting pressure on the spinal cord and obstructing blood flow.  By looking at her, you would never know that anything was wrong.  She was a very typical 2 year old, full of energy and non-stop questions to which I had no answers.  I was at the wheel late at night as we were driving home from Iowa City back to Houston.  All of the kids were sound asleep and my wife, Lisa, had just started to fade in the passenger seat.

I was outside of St. Louis, Missouri and the snow was falling.  We needed a hotel for the night, but there was this part inside of me that just wanted to keep going, to get home and pretend that life would be normal again.  We had been told that she would need surgery on her spine, but to wait a few years and observe what would happen as she grew.  As a father of this beautiful 2 year old, I couldn’t help but feel helpless on this one.  There was nothing I could do to fix this, and it truly bothered me.  I was scanning the radio dial looking for some Christian music and was only getting static or hard rock.  Then out of nowhere the radio locked in on a station, which came through crystal clear, just as the Casting Crowns song, “Praise You in the Storm” came on.  Tears were plentiful as the words filled my mind as I came to realize that during the storms of our life we are to praise God for His blessings and miracles.  He hears every word of our struggle and cries for help. 

This immediately became my song of strength for the next 2 years of visits to and from Iowa.  I fought with God, argued with Him and praised Him for this situation in my life.  Why couldn’t He reach down and miraculously heal her?  I saw this as a great opportunity to show the world His healing power, but why wouldn’t He do it?  Looking back, I have come to realize that God used this situation for many purposes in my life and the lives of others, rather than just healing her.  In my quiet times over that 2 year span of time, I consistently heard God telling me – “Will you still praise Me if I don’t heal her?”

Sam’s surgery took place in April 2007, and by October 2007 the doctors in Iowa were amazed by her recovery and deemed her situation an unbelievable success, never seen before.  God’s plan for Samantha reached so much farther than my short-sighted miracle request.  Over a two year period God had performed multiple miracles through this little girl’s experience.  From finding the right doctor, to financial provisions for flights to / from Iowa, to amazing the doctors with her quick recovery, to helping another little girl at the hospital gain confidence as she was just beginning her experience.  Over that two years, God used Samantha’s situation to impact the lives of many other individuals.  In the end, her surgery went flawless, her recovery was miraculously short and she is living a perfectly normal life 4 years later.

We don’t always see how God is going to use a situation, but we must have faith and trust that He will use it for His Kingdom.  The hardest part is not being able to understand during the trials and storms, but knowing that God is in control.
Heavenly Father,
You have made all things work for the good of Your kingdom.  We are here to serve and to love, so that through us others might come to a deeper relationship with You.  Thank You for the miracles of Sam’s life, trials and amazing recovery.  You have demonstrated Your love in countless ways throughout this experience and I know that You have it all under control.  Help me to get out of the way and to trust You and Your plan for my life.  In Your name I pray – Amen.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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