Thanks be to God for his church
(Part one of a four part series on Thanksgiving)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 3, 2009
This is the time of year when much attention is brought to those things for which we should all be thankful. Family, health, and hope of heaven are among the things we cherish most. In part one of my four part series on Thanksgiving, I will be writing about the Lord’s church.
When you attend a worship service, it is impossible to grasp the amount of strength, power and might it has taken for the Lord to establish and maintain his church that would prove indestructible throughout the ages. We should all be thankful and mindful of this magnificent gift.
Acts 2:38-47 tells us about the gathering of the first church, saying that those who accepted Peter’s message were baptized for the forgiveness of their sins and then added to the church.
So, just how big of a deal is this? It’s a HUGE deal because we have the opportunity to be part of something that Christ felt was important enough to die for, the church, the saved, God’s family. Daniel (2:44-45) prophesied the coming of Christ’s indestructible kingdom (the church) 600 years before Jesus arrived on the scene. It is still in existence today all around the world despite the fact that many earthly kingdoms have risen and fallen.
The New Testament (NT) confirms the establishment of the church, the Lord’s eternal kingdom. Hebrews 12:28-29 says, “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.”
The writer is referencing the Old Testament (OT) account of the power of God demonstrated at Mount Sinai. That’s when God came down in a thick cloud with thunder and lightning to speak with Moses, and to give him the Ten Commandments, as the rest of the people were warned to not even touch the mountain lest they die. “The smoke billowed up from it like smoke from a furnace, the whole mountain trembled violently…” (Exodus 19:16-18)
In the NT, Hebrews 12:22-26 compares the superior nature of God’s dealing with Christ’s church versus the quaking and shaking of the earth when God spoke in the OT. In verse 25, we are reminded that if people in the OT couldn’t escape God’s face to face warnings, how can we even pretend to hide from the same God who rules from heaven today?
The church is the bride of Christ (Rev. 19:7). The only question is whether you are a part of his church. If not, why are you waiting? The devil can huff and puff, but those who are in the Lord’s church can know for sure their foundation is secure forever. God bless you and have a great week!
Welcome to my bulletin article site. What I do is minister to young Christians, their families, their friends, and others in the Fort Gibson, OK area. So check-in every now and then, and I'll try to have an encouraging word for you.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Who are you?
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 27, 2009
“And just who do we have here?” That is one of the most common questions kids are asked every year when they go trick or treating. In fact, I spoke to 175 Intermediate Elementary students at “Kids for Christ” last Wednesday, and they were all more than willing to tell me who they were planning to be for Halloween. The answers ranged from “Batgirl” to “Something scary!”
I reminded them that even though it’s fun to dress up in costume, we all have an image we are trying to portray in real life, too. As Christians, we are to imitate Jesus.
I told the students that people know who you are by the way you act, by the things you say, by the way you treat people, by the places you go, by the music you listen to, by the movies you watch, and by the video games you play. The same is true for adults, isn’t it?
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “By their fruit you will recognize them… (Matthew 7:16)”
I gave out bracelets with words on them such as ASAP: Always Say A Prayer, Wrapped in His Love, God Keeps His Promises, Jesus Love Me, and PUSH: Pray Until Something Happens. Then, I explained the words and talk to them about the importance of not only wearing Christ-like messages on their clothes, but actually making those sayings a big part of who they are.
As children become adults, they learn to put on the face of who they want to be. We all do that to an extent, don’t we? We put on a good face and even wear clothes or jewelry with Christian messages. We do it because that’s either who we want to be, or who we want people to think we are. But like they say, “Sitting in a henhouse doesn’t make you chicken” anymore than putting on a good front makes you a good Christian. I knew a guy a few years back who would “go to church” three times a week, and he didn’t even believe in God. It was a social thing for him. Strangely enough, he loved God’s family even though he wouldn’t acknowledge God.
So what does this mean to you? It’s healthy to ask yourself everyday, “Who am I?” And then ask, “What am I doing that will insure my actions match my label?”
This week, just remember we were all made in God’s image. What you do with that image is your choice and your destiny. God bless you as you turn away from Satan’s tricks, and towards God’s treats. (end)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 27, 2009
“And just who do we have here?” That is one of the most common questions kids are asked every year when they go trick or treating. In fact, I spoke to 175 Intermediate Elementary students at “Kids for Christ” last Wednesday, and they were all more than willing to tell me who they were planning to be for Halloween. The answers ranged from “Batgirl” to “Something scary!”
I reminded them that even though it’s fun to dress up in costume, we all have an image we are trying to portray in real life, too. As Christians, we are to imitate Jesus.
I told the students that people know who you are by the way you act, by the things you say, by the way you treat people, by the places you go, by the music you listen to, by the movies you watch, and by the video games you play. The same is true for adults, isn’t it?
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “By their fruit you will recognize them… (Matthew 7:16)”
I gave out bracelets with words on them such as ASAP: Always Say A Prayer, Wrapped in His Love, God Keeps His Promises, Jesus Love Me, and PUSH: Pray Until Something Happens. Then, I explained the words and talk to them about the importance of not only wearing Christ-like messages on their clothes, but actually making those sayings a big part of who they are.
As children become adults, they learn to put on the face of who they want to be. We all do that to an extent, don’t we? We put on a good face and even wear clothes or jewelry with Christian messages. We do it because that’s either who we want to be, or who we want people to think we are. But like they say, “Sitting in a henhouse doesn’t make you chicken” anymore than putting on a good front makes you a good Christian. I knew a guy a few years back who would “go to church” three times a week, and he didn’t even believe in God. It was a social thing for him. Strangely enough, he loved God’s family even though he wouldn’t acknowledge God.
So what does this mean to you? It’s healthy to ask yourself everyday, “Who am I?” And then ask, “What am I doing that will insure my actions match my label?”
This week, just remember we were all made in God’s image. What you do with that image is your choice and your destiny. God bless you as you turn away from Satan’s tricks, and towards God’s treats. (end)
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Christians have the ultimate retirement
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 20, 2009
Boxing great George Foreman is quoted as saying, “I don`t even think about a retirement program because I`m working for the Lord, for the Almighty. And even though the Lord`s pay isn`t very high, his retirement program is, you might say, out of this world.”
Big thanks to Stephen, a high school student who sent me that quote in a text message this week. It mirrors Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19-21. Jesus says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Later in chapter 6 Jesus reminds us to spend our time seeking out his will for us, and he will give us what we need.
These Biblical truths are just about as opposite from the world’s way of thinking as you could possibly get, aren’t they? But then again, the world’s mind is not set on things above, and is not seeking the same goal.
God is not saying he wants us to sit around and be lazy, waiting on him to miraculously do everything for us. He certainly expects us to provide for our families, and to use our talents to his glory. But if the search and hoarding of material possessions becomes the most important thing in our lives, Jesus is simply telling us we’re looking in the wrong direction. In fact, if we’re using our God-given talents in a way that does not honor him, we are also spinning our wheels spiritually, and worse yet, in the wrong direction.
Experiencing true joy is not something that has to begin after this life is over. You see, Christians can live a life of contentment in the here and now. Yes, even in the midst of pain, suffering, and disappointment, Christians can approach life with confidence. God’s people know that life on earth is at best temporary. Our goal during this short life we’re blessed with needs to be that of honoring God in our obedience to him, our love and trust of him, and our attitude and service to others.
Yes it’s true that most people don’t strike it rich as a result of walking on the Lord’s path. But it’s also true that God gives us what we need even when we think we need something more or something different.
The payoff for God’s retirement plan comes sooner for some than for others. We don’t understand all of the why’s about that either. But one thing is for sure. We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, and God rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Romans 8:28 & Hebrews 11:6) What more could we ask? Have a great day!
Showers of blessings are not just dumb luck
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 13, 2009
When I see so much rainfall as we have experienced lately, I can’t help but think of all the ways God showers us with blessings. Have you ever tried to count all of your blessings? There’s a song written 112 years ago that we sing in worship called “When Upon Life’s Billows.” The chorus says, “Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your blessings, see what God has done.”
For me, just trying to process all of the ways God blesses me is like trying to shove a giant tub of cookie dough thru a small funnel. It’s next to impossible. But it sure is fun to taste the sweetness as I make an attempt.
For me, life is not perfect. We haven’t made it to heaven just yet. We all suffer many of the same physical and emotional aches and pains while recognizing there are always those in our community who struggle much more. I keep a busy schedule like many people, and I am not a rich man by the world’s standards. Most people aren’t.
I’m way too forgetful, but hey, last Sunday our pulpit minister Dan Rouse reminded us that forgetfulness is a blessing. I’ve been blessed a lot in that area lately it seems.
I will say, however, that I do have a wonderful wife and three fantastic children. Our life in Fort Gibson is good. But the joy any of us experiences does not come by accident. The apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 9:6 “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
We should never just give of our time or money in order to receive a blessing. But it’s no accident that those who do go the extra mile are blessed beyond measure. I know a lot of wonderful people here in Fort Gibson who I look up to greatly because of their selfless acts of service. Their compassionate, kind, and Christ-like attitudes inspire me to try harder everyday.
Let’s never forget the principle taught in Luke 11:48 which says, “…From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
Today, take some time to count a few of your blessings, thank God for them, and then pass on a blessing to someone else. Thisway of thinking will not only bless you, your family relationships, your friendships, and our community, it is also a time-proven way of thinking and living that has full backing in God’s word. Have a great day!
Fear is no way to live
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 6, 2009
October is known for a lot of things. Fall festivals, leaves turning beautiful colors, and of course Halloween. My church, the Fort Gibson Church of Christ, is doing a Trunk r Treat where kids and their parents can safely walk through our parking lot from one trunk to the next where church members will be handing out treats.
When I was a kid, two of my favorite costumes were Dracula and Frankenstein! Of course, none of us was trying to seriously portray the spiritual “dark side.” We were simply having fun looking scary. These days, I prefer a slightly kinder, gentler, possibly humorous costume. Besides, there’s not much call for a scary youth minister. However, it does not offend me when kids dress up in creepy costumes as long as it’s not too offensive. My kid wants to be the “Headless Horseman.” I guess that’ll work.
In our walk towards heaven, we are bound to face plenty of people and situations that cause us fear and anxiety. Unbearable bosses, financial fears, spousal stresses, parenting problems, medical misfortunes, you name it. This broken ball we live on called earth is full of difficulties.
In spite of that, the Bible encourages us to live our faith and testify boldly about our Lord. 2 Timothy 1:7 says “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” (NIV) Other versions say that God didn’t make us cowardly or fearful.
In fact, God made us in his own image (Genesis 1:27). And even though the psalmist David faced many trials and fearful situations, he still knew without a doubt who was in control in the end. He certainly made his share of mistakes at various times in his life, but he ultimately trusted God in all things, and you can too.
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14) Please take time to read the entire 139th Psalm. It’s very inspirational to read and think about God’s tremendous power, and to try to comprehend the amount of love that God has for us.
May God bless you with confidence as you prayerfully consider laying all your fears in God’s hands so that you can serve him wholeheartedly. The fears of this life will not last forever. Life in heaven for eternity will. In the end, it will be more than worth every ounce of trust you put in our Savior Jesus Christ. Today, try telling someone about what he’s done in your life.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 20, 2009
Boxing great George Foreman is quoted as saying, “I don`t even think about a retirement program because I`m working for the Lord, for the Almighty. And even though the Lord`s pay isn`t very high, his retirement program is, you might say, out of this world.”
Big thanks to Stephen, a high school student who sent me that quote in a text message this week. It mirrors Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19-21. Jesus says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Later in chapter 6 Jesus reminds us to spend our time seeking out his will for us, and he will give us what we need.
These Biblical truths are just about as opposite from the world’s way of thinking as you could possibly get, aren’t they? But then again, the world’s mind is not set on things above, and is not seeking the same goal.
God is not saying he wants us to sit around and be lazy, waiting on him to miraculously do everything for us. He certainly expects us to provide for our families, and to use our talents to his glory. But if the search and hoarding of material possessions becomes the most important thing in our lives, Jesus is simply telling us we’re looking in the wrong direction. In fact, if we’re using our God-given talents in a way that does not honor him, we are also spinning our wheels spiritually, and worse yet, in the wrong direction.
Experiencing true joy is not something that has to begin after this life is over. You see, Christians can live a life of contentment in the here and now. Yes, even in the midst of pain, suffering, and disappointment, Christians can approach life with confidence. God’s people know that life on earth is at best temporary. Our goal during this short life we’re blessed with needs to be that of honoring God in our obedience to him, our love and trust of him, and our attitude and service to others.
Yes it’s true that most people don’t strike it rich as a result of walking on the Lord’s path. But it’s also true that God gives us what we need even when we think we need something more or something different.
The payoff for God’s retirement plan comes sooner for some than for others. We don’t understand all of the why’s about that either. But one thing is for sure. We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, and God rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Romans 8:28 & Hebrews 11:6) What more could we ask? Have a great day!
Showers of blessings are not just dumb luck
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 13, 2009
When I see so much rainfall as we have experienced lately, I can’t help but think of all the ways God showers us with blessings. Have you ever tried to count all of your blessings? There’s a song written 112 years ago that we sing in worship called “When Upon Life’s Billows.” The chorus says, “Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your blessings, see what God has done.”
For me, just trying to process all of the ways God blesses me is like trying to shove a giant tub of cookie dough thru a small funnel. It’s next to impossible. But it sure is fun to taste the sweetness as I make an attempt.
For me, life is not perfect. We haven’t made it to heaven just yet. We all suffer many of the same physical and emotional aches and pains while recognizing there are always those in our community who struggle much more. I keep a busy schedule like many people, and I am not a rich man by the world’s standards. Most people aren’t.
I’m way too forgetful, but hey, last Sunday our pulpit minister Dan Rouse reminded us that forgetfulness is a blessing. I’ve been blessed a lot in that area lately it seems.
I will say, however, that I do have a wonderful wife and three fantastic children. Our life in Fort Gibson is good. But the joy any of us experiences does not come by accident. The apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 9:6 “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
We should never just give of our time or money in order to receive a blessing. But it’s no accident that those who do go the extra mile are blessed beyond measure. I know a lot of wonderful people here in Fort Gibson who I look up to greatly because of their selfless acts of service. Their compassionate, kind, and Christ-like attitudes inspire me to try harder everyday.
Let’s never forget the principle taught in Luke 11:48 which says, “…From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
Today, take some time to count a few of your blessings, thank God for them, and then pass on a blessing to someone else. Thisway of thinking will not only bless you, your family relationships, your friendships, and our community, it is also a time-proven way of thinking and living that has full backing in God’s word. Have a great day!
Fear is no way to live
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 6, 2009
October is known for a lot of things. Fall festivals, leaves turning beautiful colors, and of course Halloween. My church, the Fort Gibson Church of Christ, is doing a Trunk r Treat where kids and their parents can safely walk through our parking lot from one trunk to the next where church members will be handing out treats.
When I was a kid, two of my favorite costumes were Dracula and Frankenstein! Of course, none of us was trying to seriously portray the spiritual “dark side.” We were simply having fun looking scary. These days, I prefer a slightly kinder, gentler, possibly humorous costume. Besides, there’s not much call for a scary youth minister. However, it does not offend me when kids dress up in creepy costumes as long as it’s not too offensive. My kid wants to be the “Headless Horseman.” I guess that’ll work.
In our walk towards heaven, we are bound to face plenty of people and situations that cause us fear and anxiety. Unbearable bosses, financial fears, spousal stresses, parenting problems, medical misfortunes, you name it. This broken ball we live on called earth is full of difficulties.
In spite of that, the Bible encourages us to live our faith and testify boldly about our Lord. 2 Timothy 1:7 says “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” (NIV) Other versions say that God didn’t make us cowardly or fearful.
In fact, God made us in his own image (Genesis 1:27). And even though the psalmist David faced many trials and fearful situations, he still knew without a doubt who was in control in the end. He certainly made his share of mistakes at various times in his life, but he ultimately trusted God in all things, and you can too.
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14) Please take time to read the entire 139th Psalm. It’s very inspirational to read and think about God’s tremendous power, and to try to comprehend the amount of love that God has for us.
May God bless you with confidence as you prayerfully consider laying all your fears in God’s hands so that you can serve him wholeheartedly. The fears of this life will not last forever. Life in heaven for eternity will. In the end, it will be more than worth every ounce of trust you put in our Savior Jesus Christ. Today, try telling someone about what he’s done in your life.
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