Who's Looking Up to You?

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"Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king."  - 1 Peter 2:17

I want you to think back over the span of your life. Perhaps that's 20 years, perhaps it's 70. In this time frame you have had the opportunity to observe others behaviors, character, integrity and life story. Right now I want you to picture the single person who influenced your life with goodness in these areas. Can you see that person, is your memory drifting back to a time when that person impacted your life. Perhaps they were a coach, a pastor, a teacher, a friend, a parent or friend's parent, or perhaps someone more distant like the President or civil leader. Ask yourself this one question - "Did you respect that person?"

Now, I want you to do something similar and picture the single person who brought you down, disrespected you, lacked character or integrity and seemed infatuated with causing you pain. Can you see that person, his/her face. Ask yourself this one question - "Can I forgive that person?"

We are told in 1 Peter to respect everyone, love your brother, fear God and to honor the king. Why is it that we have a hard time respecting and loving others? I believe it comes down to the scale we place them on. When we look at someone’s character and life story through our own eyes it is easy to see their faults and weaknesses compared to what we know goodness and righteousness should look like. If we held up a mirror though would we use the same measuring stick against our own life. Perhaps we should try to see them through God's eyes.

Now, I ask you, "Can God love someone even if that person is unlovable?" (eg. person #2 above) I think you would agree with me that the answer is pretty obvious yes. The second part of the question then is "Do you believe God loves that person as much as He loves you?" We learn through the teachings of Paul, Peter and John that Jesus Christ died for the redemption of all man's sins. Not for some, not for only the good ones or the little ones, but All. Who are we to try and put judgment and hierarchy against the sins of man. By doing so we are basically stating that God's love and forgiveness has limitations as to how much sin He is willing to forgive. This is a dangerous slope that many will use to their benefit and continue to sin, knowing that God will forgive.

Now that's just downright disrespectful to God and Jesus Christ directly. To this person I simply ask them to consider the wrath of God and to seriously fear it. For in Matthew we learn that many will cry out, "Lord, Lord open the door, and Jesus will reply, I do not even know you." Do not fear God my brother or sister. If you are anything like me, you need to fear yourself and your inability or lack of desire to conform your sinful nature. It is a daily commitment and discipline to walk upright and be worthy of the respect of others. For do not forget that as you are looking up to and respecting your peers and leaders, others are looking up to and respecting you. Live a life that is worthy of their respect and discerning eye.

- Rich

© Sondove Enterprises, 2010
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Fear Not

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“The LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.” – 1 Kings 19:11

What are you afraid of?
Seriously, do you believe that your situation is beyond the help of God, Almighty?

Life is difficult, but the Lord is the Creator of all things.  He is your rock and fortress in times of trouble.  We need not fear anything that mankind puts in our way, if our hope is in the Lord.  Satan will use fear to cause you to question God’s love for you, and to challenge your faith in His presence in your life. Fear not, for God never leaves your side or turns His back on you.  We face burdens and challenges to strengthen our faith and build more trust in Him as our provider and comforter.

Take a look at 1 Kings 18:16 and 19:31, Elijah, the only remaining prophet of the Lord at that time faces over 450 prophets of Baal at Mount Carmel.  All other prophets of God had been killed by King Ahab and Jezebel.  After several hours of calling on their gods of Baal to send fire to light their sacrifice, nothing happens.  Elijah, builds an alter and sacrifice, pours water on the wood to the point of saturation, then prays for the Lord’s glory and anointing on the people that day.   He asks the Lord for fire from heaven and the Lord strikes fire to the altar, and immediately the 450 prophets of Baal fall prostrate and recognize God as Lord.  Elijah then proceeds to kill all of them, and send a message of God’s power to Ahab and Jezebel. Then we see Jezebel’s response threatening Elijah’s very life, sending him running with fear into the wilderness.  

What had happened to this mighty prophet of the Lord?  Where had his confidence and courage gone?  How could he fear for his life less than 24 hours after slaughtering 450 prophets of Baal?  In the wilderness Elijah comes face to face with the Lord to receive strength, courage and the resolve to continue forward on his purpose for the Lord.  In 1 Kings 19:15-18, God informs Elijah that there are many prophets to come in the future days, ensuring him that he is not alone.  He comes to Elijah on that mountain in a gentle whisper of love, comfort and peace, to strengthen Elijah and give him a conquerors perspective.  Elijah leaves that mountain revitalized to carry on and continue his purpose in the Lord.

We all get off track.  Even the greatest prophets and messengers of the Lord had fear, weakness and struggled with the evil of mankind.  Look at Adam, Moses, Elijah, David, Joseph, Abraham, Peter and Paul and you find each of them challenged along their path.  You serve the same Almighty God that they served, and His love and strength is as plentiful for you today as it was for them.  You must come to the point in your life where you give up control and trust in His power, love and purpose.  Today is that day.  Give your worries and concerns over to God and hear His word for renewal and strength to carry on.

Almighty God,
You alone are worthy of our praise and worship.  You alone can provide our strength, courage and purpose.  You alone can overcome any struggle we face today.  You alone can calm our fears and help us see through our worries and concerns.  We bring our burdens to You today because it is too much for us to carry.  We are pressed beyond our capacity and call upon You for our help, Lord.  Give us the heart of a conqueror and overcomer to take on the challenges that mankind place before us.  We trust and hope in You alone as our provider.  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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The Real Deal

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“And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them.”  – Luke 21:8

Walking along the streets of Beverly Hills it is not uncommon to see someone famous, or someone who closely resembles someone famous.  Actors and actresses are often found shopping along Rodeo drive or checking out the nightlife along the Sunset Strip in Hollywood.  Many times though they are mingling right alongside of the tourists without even being noticed.  Without makeup and an entourage of paparazzi and body guards, most of us would not even recognize them walking down the street.  Then there are the times when we catch ourselves asking, “Was that so and so….” or “I think that’s …….”  We recognize them even without the makeup and fan fare.

Jesus tells us clearly in the scriptures that when He returns, there will be no need for us to try and recognize Him.  There will be no reason for Him to tell us who He is.  Those who have developed a relationship with Jesus Christ will know without even questioning when He returns.  In Matthew 24:23-27 – Jesus tells us that many will come proclaiming to be the Christ, or many will tell us to go here or there because Christ has returned.  Yet, Christ Himself states, “For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.”  We are assured that His second coming will not be something that will be missed by those who know Him.

The key is to know Him.  This is accomplished through a daily walk with the Savior.  Reading the scriptures, studying them, finding quiet times with God to explore the unanswered questions you have, and learn of His ways.  God sent Jesus Christ as the living sacrifice, so that we might enter into His presence.  Study Christ’s life, understand His passion for peace, justice and loving others.  Grasp the principals of Jesus ministry to serve others and to serve God at the same time.  It is your responsibility to pursue God, He has already opened the door, there is nothing more that needs to be done other than your choice to receive His grace.

Heavenly Father,
I stand before You convicted of my unrighteousness, guilty of sin in my life and the desires of my flesh.  I lay down my sins before You with thanksgiving and peace knowing that You alone can wash them away.  I long for the day of Your return and stand for the truth of Your Word.  I trust in Your promise of returning one day, to draw us to be with You in heaven for eternity, and I pray for those who are falling prey to the deception of the false prophets and evil-doers who come claiming to be You.  Let these people find Your truth and call upon You for their salvation, not upon mankind.  In Jesus name I pray – Amen.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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See the Big Picture

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“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” –Psalm 46:1

We’re all looking for answers, challenging the status quo and pushing back against the system, less we become complacent and devoid of emotion in this tumultuous world.  There are people in the streets and on the rooftops demanding to be heard.  There are those that are fed up with the injustice of the bureaucracy and being suppressed under someone else’s control.  When it all comes down to it – people want freedom, justice and equality.  But what does this mean?  Does equality mean that every person is entitled to the same results regardless of their contribution to the outcome?  Does equality mean that everyone should receive the same reward without the sacrifice, hard work and commitment?  If this were true, at what point does equality cease and entitlement begin?

There are people fighting in cities all over the globe for equality between the haves and the have nots.  Yet, there are tens (if not hundreds) of millions of people living in true oppression in Haiti, Africa, the Far East and remote areas of the world.  If those with roofs over their heads and food on their table consider themselves subjugated by the system, then what do we say to those people in the world that have absolutely nothing at all?

It’s easy to blame others for our circumstances in life, it’s much more difficult to look in the mirror and realize that we have been given everything we need to change our position and yet we have squandered it.  Our Creator has given each of us the strength, ability and wisdom to be change agents in this life.  Change for His Kingdom, and the equality that means something in eternity.  He is our strength in times of trouble, if we are willing to trust Him with our problems.  This is difficult though.  We want to be in control, able to solve our own problems in a very visible and reactive manner.  It’s human nature to root cause the problem and solve it when possible.  God’s timeline very seldom aligns with ours, when it comes to solving problems and overcoming fears in life.  We have become conditioned by this fast paced internet and global society to want answers now.  Solve the problem and move on is the belief of most.

God’s view is eternal.  His perspective is less focused on the minute hand and much more on the millennium.  Think about it this way.  Let’s say there is a 3/4” diameter rope that is tied to a pole in Houston, Texas and the other end were somehow connected to the Moon (384,403 km away). You lay a penny on the end closest to the pole in Texas, balanced delicately so as not to fall off.  The penny represents your life on earth, in the flesh, from birth to death.  The rest of the rope represents the eternal time you have with God in heaven.  God’s plan of salvation is designed to give you this eternal life one day.  The brief moment that we are upon this planet seems to pre-occupy the minds of the masses, when in all honesty it is nothing more than a microscopic point on God’s timeline.

We need to shift our focus away from the inequalities of this world and learn to trust in God to get us through this life on our way to join with Him in heaven one day.  We spend so much time trying to solve the corruptness of this world, without taking into consideration that it can never be made peaceful, pure and just.  God promises these things in the New Jerusalem when the battle on this earth has been completed.  Live justly and righteous as God has taught you, do not trust in mankind’s ability to solve these problems, but trust only in Him who has your eternal life in His hand.

Heavenly Father,
You have given us a heart of compassion, a sense of right and wrong, and a desire to bring justice and equality to all mankind.  Help us to use this passion and desire to bring others closer to a relationship with You.  Thank You for making me just who I am, filled with Your love and driven to make a change in the world that impacts Your Kingdom.  I remain focused on the eternal timeline and less on the daily calendar, but help me Lord to bring this perspective to others who are struggling day to day.  Be a provider for them, that their needs are met and they might find comfort and peace until You usher in the New Kingdom.  In Jesus name I pray – Amen.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Well Done

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“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!... “ – Matthew 25:23a

Imagine walking up to the pearly gates one day. There's St Peter. and looking through the gate you see Paul with Isaac, Abraham and Moses, here comes John (the beloved), and there's Billy Graham and Mother Teresa. Peter motions for you to come this way, down a hall to your right before you enter the gates of heaven. At the end of the hall is a large white throne, blinding in it's aura. Rising from the throne is Jesus Christ himself, holding out his scarred hands. He takes your hand and you feel the scar tissue rubbing against your palms. He looks into your eyes with unbelievable love, leans down and whispers in your ear, "Follow me, but don't say a word."

He leads you to a staircase that rises almost endlessly and effortlessly you follow His lead up the 100's of stairs, blinded by the light at the top. Finally you step off of the top step onto a golden platform. There are two figures standing in front of you, one Satan and the other the Almighty God - shining in all of His glory. Satan claps his hands the room darkens and his screeching voice laughs and says - "roll the tape of this one's pitiful life." The countdown begins - 5 - 4 - your nerves on end, your becoming embarrassed, knowing what's going to be shown - 3 - tears rolling down your cheeks, your weak and trembling as you fall to your knees - 2 - squeezing your Savior's hand - 1 -

The film rolls and it is you as a baby, giggling for the first time, then learning to walk, then laughing and learning to talk, ride a bike and hit a ball...there you are at church, singing worship songs and there you are at 13 getting baptized. That's weird you think to yourself, I didn't remember seeing a dove that day. Your graduation, your first kiss, the perfect score you got on that Physics test. Then your grandpa's funeral, and who is that image next to you holding you close, propping you up. Your wedding, and your baby girl...the tears filling your eyes as you see your baby talking with angels in the hospital room....

Satan screams as the film continues, clapping his hands for the lights to turn back on, but no response. The film shows all the joys, wonders and peace of your life. Satan turns to come toward you, lunging with his pitchfork. "You are mine, now come with me." Christ steps between you and he. Satan's pitchfork goes right through Christ's heart and His white robe releases a single drop of blood which drips onto your hand. As it does, you are transformed into the perfect image of Christ, risen from the grave. Satan screeches and falls from the golden platform as you rise to your feet, alone in front of your Creator. God opens His arms and you hear His voice for the first time, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter My kingdom with thanksgiving." The door to your left opens and there stands Peter next to an open gate. Christ and the others cheer and high fiving, hugging and singing praises as you descend the golden pathway into heaven.

Make no mistake about it, the day will come when you stand before Your Creator.  Revelation 20:11-12 talks of the Great White Throne judgment happening right after one’s death.  Heaven or Hell, this is the only decision that will come from this judgment, there is no deliberating, no jury, no evidence – only God Almighty and the Book of Life.
Heavenly Father,
Your word is clear, there is one and only one way to receive eternal life with You in heaven, through a belief in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.  No condemnation, no guilt, no shame – the blood of the Lamb will cleanse my filthiness.  Your grace allows me and my imperfections to be made whole once again and to stand blameless and perfect in Your presence.  I long for the day to hear Your words say; “Well done, good and faithful servant.”  In Jesus name we pray – Amen.
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
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Thank You Veterans!

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Thank You Veterans!

"The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. " - Proverbs 11:3

To all of you who are veterans, I want to take this moment to personally thank you for the freedom that you fought so hard to provide for me and my family. We walk in the best country in the world, and you were responsible for making this country what it is today. It is my prayer for you and your family that you find peace and comfort in your life here at home.

I think about the heroes that have stood up for America, with integrity, courage and bravery. In the face of danger and the difficult decisions that must be made on the front lines, they stand there, ready to fall for the country and people they love. Integrity is defined as "adherance to moral and ethical principles; moral character and honesty". Other's might define it as "doing what's right in the eyes of God, despite what your enemies or peers say is right."

Walking with integrity takes commitment, diligence and a confidence in your beliefs and the underlying truth of those beliefs. Hard decisions face each of us every day, and choosing to stand upright for God's truth will always lead you down a path of righteousness. Falling prey to the political correctness and tolerance will lead you away from righteousness. Proverbs 11:3, clearly states God's plans for you to follow when faced with these decisions. Like our armed service veterans stood with integrity for this countries foundational truths, we need to stand for the truth in our lives.
- Rich

Time to Step Up

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“But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness” -1 Timothy 6:11

Walk straight and keep your eyes focused on the obstacles coming your way.  Your path will not be easy, but it will be fulfilling, for the Lord your God will guide your feet and bring you through the onslaught of those who intend you harm.  Hold fast to His wisdom, truth and courage and realize that in His sovereignty, He is in control of all things.

To be a man or woman of God, means to walk with integrity, strength and courage founded only in the truth of Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.  When the world presses down upon the weak, they bend and conform, but when it presses down upon the righteous they stand firm and defend the Lord.

We are not perfect, nor can we be.  Only God is perfect, displayed through the life of His Son – Jesus Christ.  We are charged though, to be righteous and holy in our actions, knowing right from wrong, good from evil and truth from deception.  We are told in scripture that the world will hate us (John 15:18) for our beliefs and because the prince of this world (Satan) is intent on destroying God’s love for mankind.  In the face of evil we have no strength in our own flesh, but only through the wisdom and faith in the Lord above. 

Hold on to the values that drew you to the Lord and remind yourself daily that you belong to the Almighty Creator of heaven and earth.  In Him, and only in Him will you find peace and rest from your daily battles.  Be the man or woman of God that you were called to be.  Amen
© Sondove Enterprises, 2011
For more Daily Thoughts go to: http://www.10minutereader.com