Sowing seeds may be more effective than you think
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 9, 2010
We’ve all heard the saying, “You reap what you sow.” A lot of times, it’s used to mean something bad is happening because of something someone did or didn’t do. But occasionally it’s nice to see that phrase being played out in a positive way.
The other day, Debbie Edwards visited our church, and in fact decided to put on Christ in baptism! After services that day, she told me a part of the reason she chose our church was because our youth group visited her house a few years ago and prayed with her. She smiled and said, “See, you never know what an impact you might have on someone. That seed your youth sowed by coming to my house lay dormant for years.”
We had been going door to door asking people if they had anything they wanted us to pray about. Debbie’s house was just one of several places we stopped to pray. That was probably about four years ago.
But just a few days ago Debbie almost had a serious car accident. She was having a serious dizzy spell brought on by a condition she has been diagnosed with called Meneire’s Syndrome. Somehow she managed to park her car on the side of the highway without incident. She feels certain that God had a hand in this since she can’t even walk, much less drive when her condition worsens like this.
Debbie decided that now was the time to turn her life completely over to Christ. She called the church office, not knowing that the person who would answer the phone already knew her. It was Janet Strain, our secretary. Janet used to work at the cable TV office several years ago and Debbie was a customer. Janet had invited her to a Ladies’ Day and also brought a group of teenage girls to Debbie’s house to deliver her some muffins. Another seed planted!
A couple of weeks ago our preacher, Dan Rouse, visited with Debbie and baptized her.
In retrospect, she said she had thought about turning in to the church many times over the years but just never did.
Stories like Debbie’s should encourage us all to continue sowing seeds of righteousness. We don’t always see immediate results; in fact, most of the time we don’t. But God is faithful.
I just wonder how many other seeds have been sown that are waiting to sprout like Debbie. Exciting to think about, isn’t it? May we all look for more opportunities to sow seeds, and then trust that God will bring about the harvest. (end)
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.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
If there were radar for the storms of life
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 2, 2010
As I sit at my desk on a clear, cold, sunny Tuesday afternoon writing this article, it is hard for me to imagine that an ice and snow storm may be only a day or so away. By the time you read this, the storm may have already come through Fort Gibson and gone; at least that’s what the weather radar is predicting. We’ll see. It’s nice that technology can give us some pretty good clues about what to expect weather-wise.
Spiritually speaking, there is no doplar, double doplar, or otherwise that can tell us when to expect the storms of life. All we know for sure is they will come and we just need to be ready. The fact is we live in a broken world, with temporary bodies in a temporary place.
I just got back from visiting a friend in the hospital who has undergone several life-changing surgeries. He didn’t want his name mentioned, but said it was okay for me to write about his situation. It was amazing to see him in such good spirits considering he will have to live the rest of his life without his right leg.
How can anyone deal with such loss? Christians experience just as much loss as anyone. The difference is how we deal with it. My friend told me he now realizes that no matter how bad you think you have it, things could always be worse. He looks to others in the community for inspiration, people who have suffered much worse circumstances and yet have recovered and live full lives. He said in the course of life it’s really easy to get busy and forget about God. But he says personal tragedies like his definitely cause you to draw closer to God. He says there will be good things that come out of his ordeal.
So what should the rest of us take from any of this? Well, just like the day I’m writing this article, life has its sunny days, and God created each one. Enjoy it. Breathe it in. Thank God for it. Like my friend said, take some time to smell the roses. None of us knows when the storms of life will hit. But we can celebrate each minute of life that God has given us on this earth. Let’s make the most of it. Smile at someone. Hug someone. Tell someone you love them. Serve someone. And most importantly, remind someone that Jesus went through torture and death before his resurrection that gives us hope of heaven to this day.
God bless you and have a great week!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 2, 2010
As I sit at my desk on a clear, cold, sunny Tuesday afternoon writing this article, it is hard for me to imagine that an ice and snow storm may be only a day or so away. By the time you read this, the storm may have already come through Fort Gibson and gone; at least that’s what the weather radar is predicting. We’ll see. It’s nice that technology can give us some pretty good clues about what to expect weather-wise.
Spiritually speaking, there is no doplar, double doplar, or otherwise that can tell us when to expect the storms of life. All we know for sure is they will come and we just need to be ready. The fact is we live in a broken world, with temporary bodies in a temporary place.
I just got back from visiting a friend in the hospital who has undergone several life-changing surgeries. He didn’t want his name mentioned, but said it was okay for me to write about his situation. It was amazing to see him in such good spirits considering he will have to live the rest of his life without his right leg.
How can anyone deal with such loss? Christians experience just as much loss as anyone. The difference is how we deal with it. My friend told me he now realizes that no matter how bad you think you have it, things could always be worse. He looks to others in the community for inspiration, people who have suffered much worse circumstances and yet have recovered and live full lives. He said in the course of life it’s really easy to get busy and forget about God. But he says personal tragedies like his definitely cause you to draw closer to God. He says there will be good things that come out of his ordeal.
So what should the rest of us take from any of this? Well, just like the day I’m writing this article, life has its sunny days, and God created each one. Enjoy it. Breathe it in. Thank God for it. Like my friend said, take some time to smell the roses. None of us knows when the storms of life will hit. But we can celebrate each minute of life that God has given us on this earth. Let’s make the most of it. Smile at someone. Hug someone. Tell someone you love them. Serve someone. And most importantly, remind someone that Jesus went through torture and death before his resurrection that gives us hope of heaven to this day.
God bless you and have a great week!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Family time, religion, and the extra’s can be balanced
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 26, 2010
Have you ever felt as busy as a Chinese plate spinner or maybe a circus juggler when it comes to balance in your family’s life?
Even in small town Fort Gibson, family time is getting harder to come by these days as our children become involved in more and more activities. It can actually be a good thing to allow our children to be involved in things that promote social interaction, teamwork, and discipline. My son Britton plays youth league basketball while my daughters, Ashton and Gracie, are in band and Winterguard. Balance is the key. We parents must keep in mind that we only get one chance to raise our kids. So, we must resist over-committing our children to worldly activities.
The apostle Paul talked about this kind of thing in 1 Timothy 4:8 when he said,
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
Paul admits that investing “some” time in earthly endeavors can be a good thing. But he emphasizes the importance of spending more time and focus on those things which have benefits both in this life and beyond.
As a youth minister, this is something I have reminded parents of over and over. But I also admit that it is an issue that many parents struggle with no matter what their profession. The fact is, we’re all human, and we all get swept up to some extent into worldly expectations. This is why we must all regularly take stock of where we are spiritually and make adjustments in our family’s routine.
I’ve had parents tell me over the years the reason their children were not involved in youth/church activities was because of all the extra-curricular activities such as sports, band, etc… They say they’re getting to spend a lot of family time together though. Again, balance must prevail, because although family time is a very good thing, we cannot throw out Bible instruction and positive peer pressure that comes from church and youth activities.
All of that being said, Christian athletes are very much needed, as are Christian politicians, Christian entertainers, Christian journalists, and so on. In fact, as I tell my youth group, they have access to people that others don’t.
The important thing for all of us to remember is where our talents come from, and to use any amount of prominence and position to honor and glorify God. Have a blessed week!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 26, 2010
Have you ever felt as busy as a Chinese plate spinner or maybe a circus juggler when it comes to balance in your family’s life?
Even in small town Fort Gibson, family time is getting harder to come by these days as our children become involved in more and more activities. It can actually be a good thing to allow our children to be involved in things that promote social interaction, teamwork, and discipline. My son Britton plays youth league basketball while my daughters, Ashton and Gracie, are in band and Winterguard. Balance is the key. We parents must keep in mind that we only get one chance to raise our kids. So, we must resist over-committing our children to worldly activities.
The apostle Paul talked about this kind of thing in 1 Timothy 4:8 when he said,
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
Paul admits that investing “some” time in earthly endeavors can be a good thing. But he emphasizes the importance of spending more time and focus on those things which have benefits both in this life and beyond.
As a youth minister, this is something I have reminded parents of over and over. But I also admit that it is an issue that many parents struggle with no matter what their profession. The fact is, we’re all human, and we all get swept up to some extent into worldly expectations. This is why we must all regularly take stock of where we are spiritually and make adjustments in our family’s routine.
I’ve had parents tell me over the years the reason their children were not involved in youth/church activities was because of all the extra-curricular activities such as sports, band, etc… They say they’re getting to spend a lot of family time together though. Again, balance must prevail, because although family time is a very good thing, we cannot throw out Bible instruction and positive peer pressure that comes from church and youth activities.
All of that being said, Christian athletes are very much needed, as are Christian politicians, Christian entertainers, Christian journalists, and so on. In fact, as I tell my youth group, they have access to people that others don’t.
The important thing for all of us to remember is where our talents come from, and to use any amount of prominence and position to honor and glorify God. Have a blessed week!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Internet, God’s word, and teens:
What an encouraging combination!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 19, 2010
I recently read a Facebook entry from a young lady in my youth group that quoted Jeremiah 29:11 as an encouragement to someone else. For those of you who aren’t computer people, Facebook is like a diary that you put on the internet for your friends to see and make comments on. I’m sure Jeremiah would have loved posting prophecies on the internet 2600 years ago had it been invented then. But hey, that’s all the more incredible that his words managed to make it to us! In fact, I would say, “Miraculous!”
In this passage the prophet Jeremiah is actually quoting the Lord who said, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
These words not only apply to the people who King Nebuchadnezzar carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. In fact, the same God who made good on his promise to allow his people to go back home to Jerusalem will also make good on his promise to bring us to our heavenly home. FYI: God has a very good track record of fulfilling prophecies.
The teenager who quoted Jeremiah on Facebook may not have thought anyone other than her intended audience would be inspired by her post. But I was. So on behalf of all who share a love of God’s word and are daily doing battle with the devil while on the way to the promised land, I would like to say, “Thank you!”
God’s word is powerful! Out of all of the top secret plans that most of us will never be privileged to see here on earth, isn’t it incredible that the most important plans ever made have already been revealed to us? Those plans can be read, acted upon, and spread to others by anyone, no matter the age or education level. God is not a respecter of persons or resources. That’s why the most knowledgeable theologian as well as a motivated teenager can use the very words of God to help bring about His will in the lives of others.
In the above passage, it is important to note that what is being spoken of are God’s plans. But just like the Jews 2600 years ago, we must follow through with what is said in the next few verses in order to receive his blessing. God says that we must call upon him and pray to him so that he will listen to us.
I read a lot of entries on Facebook from teens, some worth reading, and others not so much. One thing is certain, God has made sure that his word has stayed intact and available to benefit all of us today. But what we do with it is what makes the difference. As Jeremiah said in 29:13, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Please say a prayer today for God to bless our teens with courage to publicly take a stand, and that their ways would be God’s ways. (end)
What an encouraging combination!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 19, 2010
I recently read a Facebook entry from a young lady in my youth group that quoted Jeremiah 29:11 as an encouragement to someone else. For those of you who aren’t computer people, Facebook is like a diary that you put on the internet for your friends to see and make comments on. I’m sure Jeremiah would have loved posting prophecies on the internet 2600 years ago had it been invented then. But hey, that’s all the more incredible that his words managed to make it to us! In fact, I would say, “Miraculous!”
In this passage the prophet Jeremiah is actually quoting the Lord who said, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
These words not only apply to the people who King Nebuchadnezzar carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. In fact, the same God who made good on his promise to allow his people to go back home to Jerusalem will also make good on his promise to bring us to our heavenly home. FYI: God has a very good track record of fulfilling prophecies.
The teenager who quoted Jeremiah on Facebook may not have thought anyone other than her intended audience would be inspired by her post. But I was. So on behalf of all who share a love of God’s word and are daily doing battle with the devil while on the way to the promised land, I would like to say, “Thank you!”
God’s word is powerful! Out of all of the top secret plans that most of us will never be privileged to see here on earth, isn’t it incredible that the most important plans ever made have already been revealed to us? Those plans can be read, acted upon, and spread to others by anyone, no matter the age or education level. God is not a respecter of persons or resources. That’s why the most knowledgeable theologian as well as a motivated teenager can use the very words of God to help bring about His will in the lives of others.
In the above passage, it is important to note that what is being spoken of are God’s plans. But just like the Jews 2600 years ago, we must follow through with what is said in the next few verses in order to receive his blessing. God says that we must call upon him and pray to him so that he will listen to us.
I read a lot of entries on Facebook from teens, some worth reading, and others not so much. One thing is certain, God has made sure that his word has stayed intact and available to benefit all of us today. But what we do with it is what makes the difference. As Jeremiah said in 29:13, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Please say a prayer today for God to bless our teens with courage to publicly take a stand, and that their ways would be God’s ways. (end)
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Your calling may be only a prayer away!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 12, 2010
A young man once came into my office and said that he wanted to become more active in the Lord’s work. He indicated that there was a hole in his life that needed to be filled. Have you ever been there? Have you ever wondered what you’re called to do? This topic is definitely worth spending some time in prayer (1 John 5:14 and James 5:16).
I believe we all come to a point in life where we question whether we’re using our God-given talents to his glory. For Christians, this pull can become very strong, especially for those who understand that God can call anyone or anything into service.
The Bible lists at least two instances in which even donkeys were called to serve God directly (Matthew 21:1-2 and Numbers 22:26-34). You will want to read those on your own; especially the Numbers passage if you’ve never heard of a talking donkey. But it suffices to say that if God can use a donkey to carry out his will, then surely he can use you.
So, what is your talent? And are you willing to let God work through you? It can be a little scary to think about at first. But when you think in terms of trying to accomplish great things without God’s help, that puts things into a little better perspective, doesn’t it? The fact is, we all have a life to live. The only choice in the matter is whether we choose to walk with God, or without him. If your choice is to walk with him, then figuring out what you’re called to do in life becomes much easier. That is not to say that everyone who chooses to walk with God must be in full-time ministry work. Jesus’ disciples in the first century worked in a number of professions. I’m only saying that no matter what career or hobbies you choose to engage in, God simply wants you to let him guide your thoughts, your words, and your actions. If you do that, then there are obviously going to be some hobbies, careers, entertainment, etc… that a Christ-follower simply cannot choose; on the other hand, God will also open doors for you that you never thought possible!
In 2 Corinthians 5:14 Paul says, “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.”
He goes on to say that since Christ died for all, then we should no longer live for ourselves, but for him.
Your most successful calling will happen when Christ’s love for you collides with your love for him. When that happens, your loyalty and sense of urgency will only grow stronger and more fulfilling.
Remember what Jesus said in John 10:10? “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
May God bless you this year with a renewed commitment to being open to God’s calling for you, and the resulting joy! (end)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 12, 2010
A young man once came into my office and said that he wanted to become more active in the Lord’s work. He indicated that there was a hole in his life that needed to be filled. Have you ever been there? Have you ever wondered what you’re called to do? This topic is definitely worth spending some time in prayer (1 John 5:14 and James 5:16).
I believe we all come to a point in life where we question whether we’re using our God-given talents to his glory. For Christians, this pull can become very strong, especially for those who understand that God can call anyone or anything into service.
The Bible lists at least two instances in which even donkeys were called to serve God directly (Matthew 21:1-2 and Numbers 22:26-34). You will want to read those on your own; especially the Numbers passage if you’ve never heard of a talking donkey. But it suffices to say that if God can use a donkey to carry out his will, then surely he can use you.
So, what is your talent? And are you willing to let God work through you? It can be a little scary to think about at first. But when you think in terms of trying to accomplish great things without God’s help, that puts things into a little better perspective, doesn’t it? The fact is, we all have a life to live. The only choice in the matter is whether we choose to walk with God, or without him. If your choice is to walk with him, then figuring out what you’re called to do in life becomes much easier. That is not to say that everyone who chooses to walk with God must be in full-time ministry work. Jesus’ disciples in the first century worked in a number of professions. I’m only saying that no matter what career or hobbies you choose to engage in, God simply wants you to let him guide your thoughts, your words, and your actions. If you do that, then there are obviously going to be some hobbies, careers, entertainment, etc… that a Christ-follower simply cannot choose; on the other hand, God will also open doors for you that you never thought possible!
In 2 Corinthians 5:14 Paul says, “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.”
He goes on to say that since Christ died for all, then we should no longer live for ourselves, but for him.
Your most successful calling will happen when Christ’s love for you collides with your love for him. When that happens, your loyalty and sense of urgency will only grow stronger and more fulfilling.
Remember what Jesus said in John 10:10? “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
May God bless you this year with a renewed commitment to being open to God’s calling for you, and the resulting joy! (end)
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