Church of Philadelphia - The Open Door

 Revelation 3:7-12

“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens.  

“‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.  Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you.  Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth.  I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.  The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name."

Not in Pennsylvania, but connected nonetheless.  Philadelphia, PA, is known as the city of Brotherly Love, as was the city of Philadelphia in 1st-century Asia Minor, now Turkey.  Philadelphia was built with the intent to spread the Greek culture, language, and way of life.  Theirs was a city commonly called “little Athens” because of the beautiful Greek architecture, statues, temples, and monuments to the Greek gods.  It was situated along the major trade route between the Far East and Rome.  Used as a Greek evangelistic outpost to those passing through.

Jesus addresses the church of Philadelphia as the “holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and shuts and no one opens”.  In this context, He is clearly advising the church of Philadelphia that they had the opportunity to be the evangelistic messengers for the Good news because He had opened the door for them.  With their strategic location, they had the ability to spread His message to the masses, but also to those in their own midst.  

He has given them the opportunity to share the gospel with those in the local temples and even synagogues.  There were people in Philadelphia worshipping Greek gods and claiming to be Jews.  He stressed the importance of reaching this group, and He alone opened the door for them to do so.  As a reward, He promised they would join with Him in the new Jerusalem when He returns.

Again, Jesus speaks of His pending return and His judgment at the end of days.  Those who endure with patience and spread His gospel will receive His name forevermore.  

We are faced with similar opportunities in our daily walk to spread His word.  He has opened the door for His followers to share the gospel and to advance His kingdom message.  But, are we taking up the mantle, the burden, and stepping through the door?  One day this door will shut, and He will come again, with judgment for our eternal destination.  

Jesus has stated time and time again that He will return, and for us to endure patiently, doing His work until that day comes.  How many opportunities have you passed by where you could have influenced and shared the gospel?  Your parents, spouse, children, your co-workers, your friends and peers, extended family members…. Do you know if they have accepted Christ and are living for Him?  If not, do you not see the open door before you to share the gospel with them?  Jesus has opened the door for you just as He did for the Church of Philadelphia.  You have to decide to step through it and share His message.  You are not responsible for their salvation, but you are responsible to share the word with everyone in your circle of influence.  

Love them enough to step through the Open Door.

Why Jesus

Daily Thoughts – Why Jesus

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9 (in context)

Truth is measured in one of three ways: logical consistency, experiential relevance, and empirical reliability.  In all truths we are challenged to demonstrate in one of these ways that indeed a claim is indeed verifiable.  So, by these standards, how do you approach the topic of Jesus Christ, as the only way to heaven?  We have no physical evidence, to present in a manner that would ever be acceptable to a nay-sayer.  If someone has asked for proof in order for them to believe in Jesus Christ, I propose that they are not really intent on finding the truth, but trying to legitimize their own opinion of the unauthentic claim of Jesus’ deity.

So, when we stand before an Atheist, a Muslim, a Hindu, a Jew, a Buddhist or any other non-believer, how do we debate in a manner that will have some influence on their perspective? 

First, you must decide that you are willing to debate on the topic.  You must commit to allow God, the Father to use you, and to work through you.  We must realize we are incapable of saving anyone, we can only lead them to the Savior.  Preparation requires study, just as in any effort you put forth.  If you want to excel at work, you study and prepare for the skills you will need.  If you want to excel at sport, you put in the hard work to improve your skills, your talents and your abilities to play the game at a higher level.  If you want to excel at marriage, you must put in the work to expand your ability to love another selflessly.  Evangelizing for the Lord requires work on your part to understand His love, His grace, His salvation plan and His desire to bring all mankind to His eternity.  In short, be able to tell the story of Jesus. 

Second, you must put emotions aside, and not allow yourself to be angered by their response and arguments.  Jesus taught us to spread His word in love.  Love one another as God first loved you.  This includes loving those who are opposed to your love of Jesus Christ.  Reaching out to the non-believer is an act that must be centered in your love for others, not in your desire to win the argument.  If your neighbor doesn’t believe, your love for their eternal destination must lead your actions.

Finally, you must understand that their opinions and perspectives are just as important to them as your love of Christ is to you.  We can’t argue against their beliefs without insulting them.  Keeping in mind that they have arrived at this point in their life through careful consideration of alternatives, and wisdom gained over their personal experiences just as you have.  A more effective method is to share your story, how did you become a Christian and what has God done for you.  Your experiences are yours alone and have built the foundation of your faith.  This testimony is something that another cannot argue against, just as you can’t argue against theirs.  Know your storyline first, know how to tell it, know how God has had His finger in it   The experiential relevance of your life events have framed your emotions and this becomes the basis for your discussion with others.  You cannot evangelize on someone else’s story, your faith must be evidenced through your own experiences.

Why is Jesus the only way to heaven then?
 
There are those who accept the truth that there must be something more than this life.  They believe that there is a greater power in the Universe, but do not necessarily want to believe in God as a supreme authority.  This means they recognize that there is a hierarchical framework to our existence.  These individuals generally can wrap their head around the logical argument of God, but may not understand the reason for a Savior.  For these individuals I’ve found it valuable to first help them understand the love God has for us, and His desire for us to join with Him for eternity.  It’s important to state the holiness and perfection of God, the Father.  We are sinful, from the time of Adam, man has become sinful in our self-centered driven life, rather than God centered life.  All have sinned and therefore need to have our sins redeemed and forgiven.  We must repent from our sinful life and turn from the ways of the world. 

Many religions believe that works can overcome these sins, but there is no amount of good works we can accomplish redemption in His eyes.  Think about it.  How many good works does it take to overcome one sinful act – swearing?  How many good works does it take to overcome adultery, or murder, or stealing?  We all sin, multiple times every day.  It is impossible to believe that we can do enough works to overcome the volume of sinful actions in our lives. 

So, God, by His loving grace, provided another way.  A sacrifice, the crucifixion of His Son, Jesus Christ, to atone for our sins and bring us into a state of righteousness to exist in God’s presence.  Through the death of His beloved Son, God demonstrated His love for you.  This sacrifice created the only way to atone for our evil works, our sinful actions, and character.  The life of Christ represents a perfect life (2 Corinthians 5:21) without sin.  Therefore, by sacrificing this life, God has provided a path a path to redemption, and through belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we are grafted into His perfection.  God could have abandoned mankind and separated us for all of eternity, but chose to love us instead. 

By providing a path to redemption, God has reached out to all mankind to join with Him for all of eternity.  The refusal to accept this gift of grace is a refusal to accept eternity with God.  God doesn’t damn anyone to Hell, man chooses it for himself.  This is in and of itself an unforgivable sin.  You see, if we don’t want God, He will not force you to spend eternity with Him.  He loves you that much.  The scriptures over and over again tell us that Jesus Christ is the bridge, the path, the grace that God has provided for salvation, and by no other manner will mankind be saved from eternal damnation.

Why Jesus?   Because God wants you to be with Him in a perfect eternity and because of your sinful nature, there is no way for you to get there on your own.


© Sondove Enterprises, 2019
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The Only Purpose

Read It, Learn It, Live It, Share It

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9

 

When we bury our head in the sand and ignore the facts, we are doing a disservice to the fabric of our society.  This complacency and decision to turn the other way is allowing the acceptance of worldly perspectives rather than Godly perspectives.  Let’s face it, there are mornings I wake up and read the news and become completely discouraged with the current state of the world.  I look at the poverty, the wars, the corruptness, greed and scandals; and ask myself how much longer.  Have you been there?  Have you found yourself at times wondering, “How much longer God.  How much longer must we wait for your return?”  It’s so hard to look upon all of the evil in this world and not be overwhelmed by the challenge before us as believers in Jesus Christ.  Daily we hear of violent crimes against children, abuse of spouses, murder in the streets, oppressive governments, incurable disease, increases in homelessness and unemployment and the deception of world views on our youth, drawing them away from Christ.  There are days I wake up and feel sick to my stomach as I hear the stories of what is happening around the globe to those that stand up for their faith.

Jesus Christ came for all mankind.  The scriptures are clear that God’s desire is that all of mankind would return to Him.  In the most popular verse of the Bible: John 3:16, we see that “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whomever should believe in Him would not perish, but have eternal life.”   By the sacrifice of His only Son, God set a path in motion for ALL of mankind, not for some, not for a few, but for “all that believe in Him”.  This is the only requirement, yet so many in today’s world have chosen to refuse this gift, and remain in their sin and unrighteousness.

According to the scriptures, Jesus will return one day to take His children home (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).   Those who believe.  There is no other path to salvation represented in the scriptures for those who refuse the act that has already been demonstrated.  No good works, no charity, no financial gain, no position of power or authority, no relationship, and no wisdom will bridge the chasm between this world and the next.  Many have tried to twist the scriptures to accommodate other paths and define salvation in a way that brings comfort to their life-style, but the Holy Word of God cannot be twisted or conformed to our way of thinking.  Rather, we must accommodate our lifestyle to align with His Word.

A simple question and answer session:

• Do you believe in God?
• Do you believe that God created the heavens and earth?
• Do you believe that God gave the 10 Commandments to Moses as law for mankind?
• Do you believe that God flooded the earth during the days of Noah?
• Do you believe that God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah for the evil that dwelt within?
• Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God?
• Do you believe that Jesus Christ was born to a virgin, died, and was raised again as the salvation for mankind?

If you can answer Yes to all of these questions, than do you also believe that Jesus will come back one day to bring His own home?  Peter, Paul, John and the other disciples believed this as well.  They suffered terrible deaths holding onto this truth, and the belief that it would be in their lifetime.  Just because it did not happen in their lifetime, doesn’t change the fact that it will happen.  1 Thessalonians 4:16 tells us that the “dead in Christ” will be taken up first – this includes all of those who have gone on before you.  Peter, Paul, John, Mary, …. , Billy Graham, Mother Theresa, perhaps your parents or Grandparents, perhaps your spouse, or your child.  Verse 17 tells us that “we who are alive in Christ” will then be called to dwell with Him forever.

Does your life reflect this anticipation?  Are you impatiently awaiting the return of Jesus, and keeping alert and ready for His return?  If it were today, where would you be tomorrow?  Honestly reflect on this, for you are not going to “fake” your way through it.  God knows the truth of your heart, and regardless of your words or pleading, He will judge one way or the other.  By grace He has provided a plan of salvation, not because we deserved it, but because His love for ALL of mankind is so deep. 

He wants that all should be saved, so upon His return, can this world claim that ALL or saved?  Of course not, so does this not then require our patience and adherence to His teaching until that time has come?  If you can stand upon His truth and claim salvation, then you should be reaching to those that are lost with love and compassion, just as Jesus did, so that they too can come to this redemption.  I fear that we have turned salvation into a sporting event and as long as our team wins it’s all good.  That is not the heart of God.  It’s not a competition, it is a loving discourse of God’s truth.  Jesus came to share the truth, and left the Holy Spirit with us to help us share this good news. 

In leaving the Holy Spirit with us, we have God’s advocate dwelling within until the time of Jesus return.  Rest on this, be strengthened by this, and know that you are a child of God, left here only for a select time to share this love of God with others.  For in due time either He will return or you will reach your end of days.  In either case, our only task is to glorify the Father, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to expand His Kingdom and share His love.  This is the fruit that a child of God will bear, until the time of Jesus return.  

We get wrapped up in the worldly news, and the negativity of this life, and in doing so lose sight of why we are here.  Why are we so intrigued and captivated by the meaningless dribble that comes out of the news, social media, and the mouths of those in this world?  Nothing you do, no nothing, is more important than returning the lost to the Father.  You focus on your career, on your cars, your bills, your house, your sports, and your family; while those along your life’s path are suffering in their sin, with no understanding of the Father.  Your children, your spouse, your family, your friends are all a good place to start.  For in due time, when the trumpet sounds, they will no longer have a choice.  God’s grace is sufficient for the most disgusting of sinful actions, and His redemption is available to all, but they must come to an understanding that He alone is Lord and they must be saved from their worldly unrighteousness. 

 

 

© Sondove Enterprises, 2019
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Be Fruitful and Multiply

Click Here: Read Luke 6

““No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.  Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thorn bushes, or grapes from briers.” – Luke 6:43-44


One of the greatest opportunities you will have this year to evangelize is the next 3 weeks.  This is the time of year when our eyes are focused on the real meaning of the season, the Christ child, the Son of God.  You have an open door to share your belief with others, without abandon or fear of rejection.  The majority of the people in your sphere of influence realize the Christian reason for celebrating Christmas.  But, they may have never heard the true story of what happened to that baby in the manger, when He grew up.

“It is a personal thing.” I have heard this statement so many times in my life, from those that wanted to avoid their Christianity becoming a beacon for the world to see.  So many people fall into this camp of accepting Christ as their Savior and then quietly going about their business for the rest of their life without ever taking up the mantle of telling others.  What I don’t understand is why?  What is it that causes them to light their candle (so to speak) and then put it under a bushel basket?  The gift that one receives in salvation is not meant to be a checkbox item.  It is intended to be a change from unrighteousness to righteousness and to then live by the spirit of the Lord.  One’s life will bear fruit in one way or another.  Either the fruit is rich in spreading the Good News or it is not, there is no other choice.

Somewhat of a morbid question, but if you were to die today, would there be any doubt in the minds of those around you that you loved the Lord and served Him in your life?  Do those around you know that you are a Christian and are you living a life that represents Jesus Christ to them?  Every day millions of people die in this world, how many do you think go to heaven?  Perhaps 70%, maybe 60%, surely more than 50%. What if the answer were less than 35%?  According to a recent poll, 32% of the world’s 7.1 billion people claim to be Christian.  There is no statistical fact check on the percentage of those that claim to be Christian that have actually accepted Christ as their Savior and Lord.  For the sake of argument, let’s just assume that by stating they are Christian this group of 2.2 billion will receive eternity with God one day.  That still leaves 4.9 billion people who will not.

You are influencing people all around you with your actions, your words, and your attitude every single day.  They will either see Jesus in your actions or they won’t.  That is truly dependent upon you and your acceptance of His calling on your life.  Your faith is a private matter in that it is a personal decision to follow Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.  It is not a private matter though in that it was intended to be shared with others.  Those around you may or may not come to a closer relationship with Jesus Christ themselves, based on your actions.  If you choose to keep your salvation and your faith concealed, who might be missing out on eternal life as a result? 

Likewise, those around you may or may not have accepted Jesus Christ, and how will you know without seeing it in their life, or asking them about it?  You parents, your children, your siblings, your spouse, your best friend – are they saved?  Do you know, or are you assuming because they are nice, help others and have never stolen or killed someone, they must be a Christian.  If one of them were to die today, could you stand at their funeral and know without a doubt that they are dancing with Jesus today, or is there that voice of uncertainty.  If the later, than have the discussion immediately and share with them the glory of God’s love, His grace and His eternal peace.  Starting with those closest to you and then working your way out to impact others in the community and eventually the world, is the call upon each of us that have accepted Christ.  Let your fruit be rich in His glory and righteousness.  Make this a joyous Christmas with the confidence that those you love are destined for the eternity Jesus came and gave His life to provide. 



© Sondove Enterprises, 2018
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37 Days – A Promise of Rest

Pastor Randy’s devotional:

God’s promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it. For this good news—that God has prepared this rest—has been announced to us just as it was to them. But it did them no good because they didn’t share the faith of those who listened to God. For only we who believe can enter his rest. Hebrews 4:1-3

January 29^th Prayer:
Thank You, God, for the rest that I can enter because of Jesus. I am saved! I am redeemed! I have been reconciled to You because of the work of Jesus, and I can rest. I rest in the fact that I’m forgiven. I rest in the fact that I’m accepted by You. I rest in the established fact—established by the blood of Jesus—that I’m a child of God. I take a firm grip on this promise by faith and I rest . . . because this is Your promise to me and You are faithful . . . in Jesus’ name!

 

My thoughts:
God established a day of rest.  Read Genesis 2 and discover that indeed after completing the creation of the heaven’s and earth, and all things therein.  What Paul then shares with us in Hebrews 4 is that as believers, as children of God, we are entitled to enter into this rest with our Father.  One day, when this life has drawn to a conclusion and our eyes have closed for the final time, we will find our rest, our peace our comfort in the bosom of our heavenly Father.

Wo be to the one who has rejected Jesus Christ though.  For God states that these will not find rest in Him.  They will not enter into His Kingdom, His rest and peace.  This is not because of God’s hatred or desire to punish, but because of a choice that every person must make.  Given the information, alternatives, choices in this life to accept Jesus Christ and follow His teachings or to turn away and reject Him, they have chosen the later. 

Throughout the scriptures we are given a perspective of what, those who refuse the good news, will receive in the last days.  Eternal separation from God, described as wrath and anger, described as a pit of fire, as screaming anguish and gnashing of teeth.  Far from rest, peace and love of the Father.  This is why our purpose on this earth is so important. 

We, who believe, are comforted to know that we are in the Father’s rest.  But, assuredly, you know 5 to 10 close family or friends that are not.  Shouldn’t we therefore be busy in the Lord’s work and sharing the love of Jesus Christ with them?  If not, then why not?  Please consider the reality the depth of love you have for your fellow man and take the action to do something about it.  Perhaps, putting our pride aside is called for, in order to help others find rest from their struggles in life.  Pray on this, won’t you?

 

Be Blessed,

Rich

 

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Breathe Through It & Tell Them All

“Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”  - Joshua 24:14-15

Did you breathe? When the news caught up to you that your loved one was gone, did you breathe; or was the sheer emotional trauma such that you were left in stunning disbelief?

Death of a loved one is something that cannot be prepared for. Even in the circumstances when we know it is coming the event of one's last breath is in most cases overwhelming. There is no way to prepare the heart or the brain for the absence of one's presence, and when it happens, nothing can stop the memories from showering through the veil of deterministic hardness.

My friend, Terry, lost his father this week and I ask for your prayers and condolences to be upon him and his family as they celebrate the life that was and the eternity that lies before; while still suffering with the mourning and loss of their beloved.

In this though, I also ask that each of you take record of those around you. Your parents, grand-parents, siblings, spouse, children, grand-children, friends and extended family. Every one of them will die, and though it is not a pleasant or joyous thought it is a reality. You, through your relationship with them, have some responsibility for what happens the moment they take their last breath.

If you have done nothing to understand their faith in an eternity with God, the Father; than do not jump to the conclusion that it is indeed secure and sealed. Take the step of sharing the salvation story with each of them. If you don't, are you certain that someone else will? If you are challenged by having this dialogue with the most precious people in your life, how deep is your love for them. If you have shared and they have chosen otherwise, then your prayer closet should be filled with their picture and your prayer life overloaded with their name upon your lips. Each must choose for themselves whom they will serve, but it is upon your shoulders to at least share your belief, so they have an understanding.

Don't claim to love them, and not be concerned about their eternal rest. For they will see death one day, and that day is not within your control. So, I suggest you be busy about his business, as if it were the most important thing to do with your day.

Peace of our Lord, Jesus Christ, be upon you and your family Terry - I love you brother.

No Promises

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about everything we take for granted in this world.  People, money, furniture, cars, our job, internet, telephones, texting, education, food, water, health, vision, hearing, taste, oxygen, sunlight – just to name a few.  We blow through each day, and seldom stop to think about or focus on these things.  No, we just use them and move along.  Have you ever imagined waking up one day and some of these were unavailable to you?  I’ve heard of people going on a “purge” of electronics for 24 hours.  You arrive at a hotel and upon check in they confiscate your cell phone, your ipad, your laptop, your ipod (if you still have one) and any other devices you happen to be carrying with you.  They give you the key to your room (an old skeleton key) and as you walk in, there is no TV, no radio, no telephone.  One the table are board games, cards, books, magazines, etc. intended to be your entertainment for the next 24 hours.

I must say, as much as I think this is a shocker, I am almost tempted to do it.  We waste so much time online and socializing on the net that could be used doing something constructive.  Who, like me, actually longs for the days before we were all tethered to our devices?  If we are only given 86,400 seconds in a day (1,440 minutes) are we making the best use of the time we have to expand His kingdom.  After all, isn’t that the reason we are all here?  If there is something more important, please let me know, for I know of nothing that even comes close.

Our time is given to us each and every day as a gift from above.  It is not a guarantee or promise that there will be another one tomorrow.  We take it for granted that we are going to go to sleep and wake up in the morning, but show me a scripture that promises that.  The scriptures I find relative to this subject all state that time is limited and valuable, so be busy about the work of the Lord.  James 4:14 states: “Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away”  In the Old Testament, Colossians 4:5-6 tells us, “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person”

We are called to live life to it’s fullest.  That means each and every day, rediscover what it is that the Lord has for you that day.  Your breath is a gift, your sight is a gift, your hearing, your voice, your home, your car, your job, your friends.  Everything you have is a gift from the Lord to be used for His purpose and to glorify His Kingdom.  Stop wasting the resources He has given to you, and start using them for Him.  As Isaiah said in Isaiah 6:8, “Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!”  Be a ready and willing servant, rather than a checkbox Christian.  So many of us went to church, checked the salvation box and then went on living in the world, but the worlds standards and values.  That is not a relationship with Jesus Christ, that is an insurance policy against Hell.

Paul told the church of Ephesus in Ephesians 5:16-17, “Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”  He was teaching them how to imitate Christ, and we should all follow that teaching.  Christ walked this earth as our perfect example of what God wanted from mankind.  Our goal each and every day is to become more like Him, until that day He takes us home.  Be the good and faithful servant that you so desire to be, and give it more than lip service, get up and go out to the world with His message.v

The Unknown Neighbor

February 4, 2015

““The foremost is, ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”” – Mark 12:29-31

150 feet, maybe as much as 300 if you’re in the country.  The distance between you and a person that is having a bad day.  If you walked out of your front door and took 100 steps before ringing the door bell, might your effort at loving those around you change their entire day?  Many of us are guilty of looking right past those closest to us to try to help people on the other side of the world.  Perhaps the anonymity is what drives our choices or perhaps it is fear of knowing that we have to face our neighbors every day, so we don’t allow ourselves to get really close.

Those who live next door to you, across the street and around the corner are faced with the same eternal decision that you are faced with.  The reality is that they are going to die, and their eternal fate will be established.  When the scriptures tell us to love others like He has loved us, what does that mean to you?  It is God’s desire that none shall perish (2 Peter 3:8-9), and we have been called to serve Him while in this life.  Does your neighbor know of your faith, and do you know of theirs?

Is it sufficient in your mind that you alone have been saved and assured the grace and mercy from the most Holy God on judgment day?  Do you not have enough compassion and love for your those around you to share His redemptive story with them?  Think of the concentric circles surrounding your very house and work outward rather than reaching across the oceans and trying to work inward.  Be His feet, be His voice, be His hands to those around you.  Do not fear of what you will say, for God has promised the Spirit will speak through you at the appropriate time.  Your job is to walk the 150 feet and ring the doorbell.  Stop making excuses, and get your shoes on, there is much to do and many to reach.


© Sondove Enterprises, 2015
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The Purpose – Help Others See

October 10, 2014

{Jesus to Paul} “to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.’” – Acts 26:18

Salvation is by no means the end of the journey.  No, for that event of accepting Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord is just the beginning.  The journey consists of the daily effort to help and serve those around you to come to an understanding that God, through Jesus Christ, is the answer for them as well. 

Everyone is seeking something more.  Each day, we wake up and believe that today will be different than yesterday.  We judge our accomplishments in 18 hour windows, from the moment you wake up to the moment you lay your head down at night.  This is global, every country, every state, every village and every home; the routine is the same.   The problem that everyone of us is facing though is that when we lay our head down, there is still a feeling that more could have been done.

Saul (later converted to Paul) was approached by Jesus Christ directly.  A light so bright it blinded him temporarily.  He heard the Lord say, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”  (Acts 26:14) So, I ask, is that truly what it will take for some to come to Jesus?  A personal visit to convince them that He is real.  Jesus went on to give Paul his direction and purpose for the rest of his life on earth (Acts 26:17-18 above). 

We are no different than Paul, having accepted, by faith, that Jesus Christ is Lord.  We are purposed to learn from Jesus, through His Word, and open the eyes of those around us.  There is no limiter on this, no filter on who we should help.  Therefore we should look for opportunities to help them all – family, friends, co-workers, students, neighbors, strangers, foreigners and enemies.

It’s not a suggestion, it’s a directive from Jesus Christ himself.  Why then is it so difficult for most of us to take the initiative?  I propose it is pride.  Fear of confrontation, political correctness or embarrassment; which all comes down to maintaining a perceived image in someone else’s eyes, therefore pride.  Most of us who have accepted Jesus Christ are content with salvation and be done with pursuing Him.  It’s almost like a checkbox in our life plan, once completed we can then move on to something else.  I fear that is not salvation at all, but rather a convenient escape clause for death.  We should not be okay with the fact that our spouse, our children, our parents, our siblings, our neighbors, our friends and colleagues, our classmates and even the strangers we meet are destined for Hell.  Whether you like it or not, you have a responsibility to help open their eyes to the truth each and every day.

When your head hits the pillow at night, forget what you did for the company, for your social network, for your family and for your friends and simply ask yourself one thing – “Did I do everything I could for God today?”

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
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God’s Not Dead

Make 2014 a year of Sharing

“Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. “But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 10:32-33

I saw a great movie over the weekend and came to realize that for the most part we are allowing the world to take our faith away from us little by little.  The movie is called “God’s Not Dead” from Pure Flix Films.  It opened in 787 theaters on Friday night in the US and was the number 2 grossing film per theater for the weekend, compared to movies out of Hollywood which were shown in thousands of theaters, including Divergent and the Muppets.  I won’t go into details here about the movie because I believe each of you should find it in your local area this week and go.  Take a friend if you can, it’s the best $20 you could spend.  It has me thinking though, how would I defend the faith when faced with the extreme pressure as was the young college student portrayed in the movie.

We are all called to stand up for the truth of His grace and mercy.  That doesn’t mean we have to stand on street corners with a sign and scream at people, but it does mean we have to defend the faith when it is challenged.  Most often we find ourselves giving in to the pressure from society when our beliefs are challenged rather than taking a stand.  Human emotions get in the way of speaking His truth and we often times feel pressured to “fit in” or “just get along” so as not to offend those with an alternative opinion.  How many of you have friends that do not believe there is a God, yet alone that Jesus Christ is Savior and Lord?  Are you challenging their position on the truth from His word, or are you ignoring the situation?  If the later, what is it that keeps you from opening up this dialogue with them?  If you aren’t willing to take a stand for His truth in your interactions with them, then who is? 

You see, most of us don’t want to offend our friends or family, we just want to get along.  I get it, I’m the same way.  I make sure they know my position and then I leave it to them to pursue God, rather than pressing upon them my beliefs.  After all, it is the choice of every individual as to what they will do with this single question in life:  “Is Jesus Christ the Son of God?”  Those who say there is no God (Atheists), well, their answer is quite obvious, as is their destiny.  Those who say they believe there is a God, but have no faith in Jesus Christ as the single path to salvation, fits into a group that has been deceived by the devil in the world around them, very much like Adam and Eve were deceived in the Garden of Eden.  To believe in a supreme being, but not believe in His path for salvation means that the individual has bought into the lies of this world and has claimed their position against God and His plan of eternal peace.  It is that black and white, though we try to complicate it with shades of grey and soften the rules.  God has made it clear that there is one path to salvation and that is through His Son, Jesus Christ, the redeemer of mankind.  Matthew 10:32-33 tells us that our resistance to stand up for Him in this world will result in our eternal absence from Him in paradise.

I’m working on this myself, believe me, but I am committed to stand for my Savior in all opportunities that God places before me.  Eventually, I will become stronger and will pursue those opportunities to defend my faith in the eyes of this world.  It is a journey I am pursuing and I hope you will join me in doing the same.  Step out of that comfortable box of evangelizing to other believers and start actually spreading His word to those who need to hear it.  Be bold, confident and courageous in your endeavor though, because I can assure you, the enemy will be ever present in trying to stop your pursuit.  Trust in Him who was the Creator of it all, and press on in the fight.


© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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Star Struck

Make 2014 a year of Sharing

“Stop trusting in mere humans, who have but a breath in their nostrils. Why hold them in esteem?” – Isaiah 2:22

Don’t get me wrong, I like movies, I like music, I like entertainment as much as the other guy; but I must say, I am sick and tired of seeing mere humans being put on a pedestal.  Two nights ago was a television program called, “The Oscars”.  You might have heard of it.  Actors, actresses, directors, producers and others are lauded for their accomplishments in providing entertainment through movies and.  Upon receiving their award for their contributions to this industry, the recipient proceeds to give a speech of thanks to all who were a part of helping him/her achieve their status.  This year much tado was given to Matthew Mcconaughey who stood on stage and acknowledged God as his source for strength in his life.  It was a very sound speech and I applaud him for taking the opportunity to bring glory to the Father in front of millions of people around the world watching the broadcast. 

It’s been talked about ever since it happened on Sunday night.  That’s a good thing by the way.  It’s good that people are talking about God in a public manner, because Mr. Mcconaughey talked about Him.  I ask the basic question of why did it take this event to make people more comfortable talking about God.  The media were all abuzz for 2 days about Matt’s big speech.  God was in the headlines of national and international news outlets for the last 48 hours.  That’s a big deal in today’s world, and that makes me happy, but at the same time saddened.  Saddened, because the media will move on to something else today or tomorrow and forget about God just as quickly as they picked up on the story.  It’s all about selling stories in their eyes, it’s not really about the story itself.

Every single day lives are impacted by God and the Holy Spirit all over the world.  Pastors, missionaries, Moms and Dads, students and politicians are standing up for their faith in a public manner.  Where is the media, where is the excitement and praise for their boldness and their courage?  I do not blame or discredit Mr. Mcconaughey for his statements in the public eye, but let’s remember, he’s just another man.  Just because he stands on a big stage and brings glory to God doesn’t make his testimony any more relevant than yours or mine.  Let’s not put him on a pedestal and swoon over his courage.  The simple fact that he stood on a public stage and told the world does make it more exposed, but not more relevant. 

You and I are called to share the gospel, our witness and our testimony.  You have a stage every day to claim your faith in a public manner and bring glory to God the Father.  The difference is whether or not you choose to use it.  We shouldn’t place our faith in the actors, actresses and media for getting the word out, for they will be gone one day, and then who will carry the torch.  You and I have a responsibility to take His word to the people.  Your stage may be the dinner table with your spouse, children and family.  Your stage may be a classroom, an office or a work site.  You may need to humble yourself and give credit for your success in life to the One who truly gave you the abilities to do what you do.  The reality is putting our trust in mankind will only lead to disappointments and emptiness.  Putting our trust in God the Father will lead to a fulfilled life and purpose.  The very middle of the bible is Psalm 118:8 which states: “It is better to take refuge in the Lord, than to trust in man.”  There is no better way to center your faith than to rely on God rather than those around you.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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Packing Up Christmas

Make 2014 the year for Sharing

“THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, 'MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT.'"  - Mark 1:3

The lights are down, the ornaments are back in the boxes and the tree is no longer filling the living room.  My wife has done an amazing job putting the house back together after putting all the Christmas decorations away.  It depresses me every year when we transition from a neighborhood filled with twinkling lights, manger scenes, inflatables and music synchronized displays back to the same old concrete, trees and grass throughout the subdivision.  We spent a significant amount of time over the Christmas break looking at Christmas lights and displays this year.  There is something magical about the beauty and the festive spirit of decorating at this time of year, but alas the New Year has come and it’s time to move on.

In another 325 days or so we will trek back up into the attic and bring down the green and red boxes, the garland, the tree, the inflatables and the animated deer; and go through it all again.  Often times though, once those boxes and bags are put in the attic, so is the spirit of Christmas.  Without the daily reminder of shimmering lights on the horizon and twinkling in the darkness many of us will fail to acknowledge that the Christ child that we celebrate still lives within us throughout the year.  At Christmas time we have an excuse to go out of our way to discuss Jesus Christ, His birth, His life and resurrection.  As Christians, we are more willing to mention His name and talk about Him, without the fear of being judged or ridiculed by our neighbors, friends and co-workers during this time.  Those who don’t believe, or refuse to accept are more tolerant to the topic for those 30 to 40 days around November and December each year.

So what if we didn’t stop talking about Him, but continued throughout the year?  As the lights come down and the ornaments are boxed away, are you boxing up the King of Kings as well?  Christmas is nothing more than the celebration of His birth.  It’s not even the most significant event of His life, yet we go out of our way every year to decorate, sing, and carry on without fear or abandon.  He was born so that He could demonstrate the love of God the Father to mankind and die for our sins to be reconciled.  By all practical purposes His death and resurrection were the most significant events of His life.  Yes, I realize we celebrate those in April; but I propose we should be more outgoing and demonstrative of His love and purpose throughout the entire year.

I understand we are not all called to be evangelists, preachers and teachers of the Word.  It is not within the comfort level of most Christians to introduce friends, co-workers and neighbors to Jesus Christ or invite them to church on Sunday.  You see, most Christian have an excuse at Christmas to carry the Good News throughout their sphere of influence.  But, once those lights come down, so does their evangelistic spirit.  It is apparent that many are unwilling to share the salvation story beyond their own household and in some instances they won’t even do it there.  Many, if not most, are willing to accept the redemptive grace of the Father for themselves, but are unwilling to help others come to an understanding.  Once the box has been checked on their life, many feel their work is done and leave others to discover this salvation on their own.  They don’t want to offend someone, or bring tension into a friendship.  They have a comprehensive knowledge of the eternal outcome facing loved ones and friends who don’t believe, yet they are unwilling to have a conversation about it. 

We are all called to share the Good News of the Father’s grace, plan of salvation and eternal peace with others.  In Mark 16:15 Jesus tells us directly, “He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” This message was for all believers, not just for the few gathered in that upper room.  That includes you, me and every other individual who has gratefully accepted Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.  For to accept Him as your Savior and not be concerned about the salvation of those around you, is an example of prideful arrogance and self-righteousness; not the love and peace that Christ has instilled within you.  Do not allow the spirit of Christmas to fall into the shadows of your attic this year.  Nurture it, grow in your faith and in your confidence to boldly stand before those around you and proclaim that Jesus Christ is the Messiah and will come again to enter us into a day of judgment. 
 

© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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