An active prayer life is not a waste of time

by Barrett Vanlandingham

August 16, 2017

            Have you ever prayed for something, but didn’t get what you wanted in the time frame you wanted it?  Or maybe you didn’t get what you asked for at all?

            Welcome to Paul’s world! But just so we get the full picture of why it is astounding that his prayer life fits this description, let’s be reminded of a few things about Paul.  He had an up close and personal meeting with Jesus Christ in the form of a blinding light on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3). This Pharisee and persecutor of Christians temporarily lost his eyesight so that he could eventually see the will of God in his life. Considering the fact that Paul followed Jesus’ directions, was baptized, received the Holy Spirit, did miracles, planted churches, told the story of Christ wherever he went, and was persecuted in the same ways he had persecuted Christians before his conversion, obviously the message came across loud and clear as to what role God wanted Paul to play in the early church. It is also clear that Paul wanted nothing more than to please God and make things right.

            So, if anyone had a close enough relationship with Christ to presume their prayers would always be answered, you would think it would be the apostle Paul. Well, guess again. Even though he lived for Christ (Philippians 1:19-30) to the point that he felt he would gain even more by dying for Him, that did not mean he got everything he prayed for.

            “7 So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 9 But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ (2 Corinthians 12:7-9).”

            Even though Paul faced discouragement on a regular basis that does not lessen the significance of what we go through today. And the bottom line is still the same as it was back then. God’s power is best seen during times of adversity. Jesus prayed regularly, and yet He experienced trials of every kind. In the end, He was victorious just like we will be!

            As we grow & mature in the faith, we learn more about the nature of God, what He is concerned with, & the kinds of things we should pray for.  We gradually allow our stubborn will to be shaped & aligned with His will. But in case you are ever tempted to think God has abandoned you, just remember what God really thinks of those who honor Him with their lives:

·       He rejoices over you with singing (Zeph. 3:17)

·       He redeems your life from the pit (Ps. 103:4)

·       He gives you a heart to know Him (Jer. 24:7)

·       He forgives you (Luke 15:20)

·       He calls you His child and lavishes you with love (1 Jn. 3:1)

·       He makes you holy (Heb. 10:10)

·       He knows you inside and out (Ps. 139:1)

·       He chooses you to belong to Him (1 Pet. 2:9)

·       He gives you victory over sin (1 Cor. 15:57)

·       He makes you an instrument for noble purposes (2 Tim. 2:21)
     He heals the brokenhearted (Ps. 147:3)

The Great Commission is even better than Pokémon Go

by Barrett Vanlandingham

August 9, 2016          

           

   If you happen to go by one of several landmarks in Fort Gibson, Muskogee, or pretty much any other town in America, and see random people frantically tapping and swiping their cell phones, oblivious to what’s going on around them, you might be witnessing someone playing the latest video game craze called “Pokémon Go.”  

   Players use their GPS to locate, capture, battle, and train virtual creatures called Pokémon. These little cartoon-like animals with strange names appear on your map or camera screen when you arrive at real-world locations such as selected businesses and monuments.

   The game started in the U.S., New Zealand, and Australia, and has rapidly spread to about three dozen countries.  Only a month into its existence, and players are reportedly spending as much time on “Pokémon Go” as users of Facebook, Snapchat, and Twitter.

   The fact this game, or any other hobby or recreational fad, spreads so far so fast, really is amazing. And if “Pokémon Go” really is that big of a game changer for our world, we will be hearing about it for many generations to come. I know, not likely.

   As Christians, we do know of a world changing event that has impacted generation upon generation. It happened 2000 years ago. Evidence continues to uphold its credibility, and its life-altering truths are still being accepted, spreading to the far reaches of the earth.

   Yes, “Pokémon Go” is big news and big fun for this generation, and that’s great! But no kind of recreational activity can begin to bring about the kind of peace, love, and joy that the “Good News” of Christ brings.

   “Pokémon Go” will make billions of dollars for its owner, Niantic, but the Gospel story will make its subscribers rich beyond imagination. 

   “Pokémon Go” may give millions of players a fun hobby to engage in for a few years. But the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus gives an entire world hope for eternity. 

   “Pokémon Go” gets people off their couches, out of their homes, and into the streets to collect computer-generated creatures. Wouldn’t it be nice if Christians everywhere would put forth at least that much effort to collect precious souls?

      “18 Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore GO and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:19).’”

   Whether you’re on Team Instinct, Valor, or Mystic, we should all be looking for opportunities to represent Team Jesus. Have a great day!

The perfect time to get rid of spiritual clutter is now

by Barrett Vanlandingham

August 2, 2016           

           

            Within hours after Lisa and I finished cleaning tree limbs out of our yard the other day, she approached me in my easy chair and said, “I think it’s time to clean out our closet.  I’ve already filled two giant trash bags of just my stuff!  So, whatever you haven’t worn in three years, put it in a bag.” 

            The next sentence she used that only included the word “Now!” gave me the distinct impression my options were limited. Besides, I knew she was right. I had noticed our closet had become a bit difficult to maneuver around in, you know, things stuffed in places where they didn’t really belong, things stacked on the floor and so forth.

            I knew I probably had a “few” things that needed to go, but I never imagined we would wind up filling SEVEN large leaf bags and two more regular kitchen size trash bags. Most of it was mine.  You know, sweaters from 15 years ago, t-shirts, dress shirts, tennis shoes, dress shoes, jackets, shorts, you name it!  Some of the items were out of style or worn out, the rest were things I just knew I would be able to fit back into someday, but haven’t yet.

            We as Christians need to take time to clean out our spiritual closets. The apostle Paul told the church in Ephesus to “make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:15-16).” 

            If we want to mature in the faith, we should take inventory of what’s taking up space in our lives. Jesus told the parable of a man who did some spiritual house cleaning, but his strategy didn’t work. Jesus explains why:

            “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation (Matt 12:43-45).”

            Spiritually, we cannot stop with simply cleaning out bad or useless things from our lives. We must replace them with good things that will help us in our spiritual walk so that we do not fall back into bad habits.  It is also important to understand that just because you have a free hour in your day, that doesn’t mean you must fill it with the first good deed or project that presents itself. It’s okay to say no.  Sometimes, it’s better to serve God by filling that space with some time just for you, to pray, to think, to read, to just breathe, de-compress, and be thankful for God’s blessings. Too many good things crammed into your schedule will empty your cup, and deplete your abilities to bless the lives of others. When Christians are too busy, we become B.U.S.Y.  That’s short for “Being Under Satan’s Yoke.”

            This week, pray for God’s help to de-clutter your life, and still give you opportunities to bless the lives of others.  Have a great day! 

You can be ready for Christ’s return

by Barrett Vanlandingham

July 19, 2016

            The worst thing anyone can imagine hearing from God on Judgment Day is “I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!” (ref: Matthew 7:23)

            In my #fullycharged series I have been writing about things that we as Christians need to re-charge for our daily spiritual journey. My final topic is “Re-charging Readiness” to resist temptation, to teach others, and to bring others to heaven with us.

            The apostle Paul reminded the early Christians that spiritual war requires spiritual weapons, stronger than any manmade weapon (ref: 2 Corinthians 10:3-5). He says we are to put on the armor of God, having our “feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace” (Ephesians 6:15)

            There are no more important words to tell those you care about than the story of Jesus, His life, death, resurrection, and what the Bible says our response to His amazing love and sacrifice should be. When we respond to the Gospel with obedience and trust, being baptized into Christ clothes us in Christ (Galatians 3:27, Romans 6:1-11). This relationship with Jesus gives us peace and confidence until the day of His return. Our feet are fitted with this readiness, and we take it with us every step of our spiritual journey, encouraging others to do the same. Paul explains that this peace helps us in our war against spiritual forces of evil (ref: Eph 6:12).  Paul also encourages us to put on the “belt of truth”, “shield of faith”, “helmet of salvation”, and the “sword of the Spirit” which is the word of God. Paul emphasizes the importance of praying on all occasions, and for all of the Lord’s people.

            Paul also tells the Ephesians to “not give the devil a foothold (4:27, NIV).” Another way of saying that is to “Give no opportunity to the devil (4:27, ESV).”

            How do we do that? James says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7).” Paul says, “Reject every kind of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22).” The fact is, God’s word would not tell a committed follower of Jesus to do something if it were not possible.

            While rejecting or resisting temptation is part of “Re-charging Readiness” for that final day, so is saying yes to all the great things Christ has to offer, and to teach others to do the same.

            Peter said, “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).”

            Paul told a young Timothy that we should always be prepared to instruct others with the truths of God’s word (ref: 2 Timothy 4:2). After all, Jesus did tell his followers to go and teach and make more followers (ref: Matthew 28:18-20).

            In the end, James says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him (James 1:12).”

            This week, pray that God opens an opportunity for you to talk with someone about their readiness for Christ’s return.  Have a great day!

A Christian’s faith journey should include respect

by Barrett Vanlandingham

July 12, 2016

            When I was much younger, long before I became a full-time youth minister, I sometimes wondered if the preachers’ families ever had conflict or spiritual struggles of any kind. But after years of being close friends with our preacher’s kids, I soon figured out that even the preacher’s family had to deal with the same issues as everyone else.  As an adult now in my 15^th year of full-time ministry, I know these things first hand. Simply put, raising a family (no matter what you do for a living), isn’t always easy.

            This week, I am continuing my series on things we as Christians need to re-charge in our lives. In particular, the respect of God, others, and self.

            In the Old Testament, we read about Eli the priest, and how he raised a young boy named Samuel at the request of the boy’s parents. He evidently did a great job with Samuel, but the same could not be said for how Eli raised his own sons, Hophni and Phinehas. The Bible says they were scoundrels and had no regard for the Lord (1 Samuel 2:12). Specifically, Eli’s sons stole the best portions of sacrificial meat before it had been offered to the Lord. They also slept with women who were stationed just outside of the worship place known as the Tent of Meeting.

            Eli rebuked his sons for their sins, but they would not listen.  This same chapter provides a pretty good clue as to why his sons may not have respected their dad’s warning. A prophet of God approached Eli and said,

“Why then do you scorn my sacrifices and my offerings that I commanded for my dwelling, and honor your sons above me by fattening yourselves on the choicest parts of every offering of my people Israel (1 Samuel 2:29)?”

            Evidently, Eli knew all along that his sons were disrespecting God by their bad choices. So, even though Eli called them down for their sinful ways, they did not respect a dad who they knew was turning a blind eye to their actions that greatly disrespected the Lord. God punished Eli’s entire family by cutting their lives short in the “prime of life.” Hophni and Phinehas died in battle on the same day.

            I am not going to sit here 3000 years later and accuse Eli the priest of being a bad parent or person or anything like that. But this passage is a wakeup call that even though the daily stresses of life can beat us down, we still need to be careful to not become lax in our love for God, and modeling that love by our obedience to Him, and encouraging our children to do the same.

            “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 12:30-31).”

             God’s love is amazing, and He continues to earn our respect every minute of every day. Have a great week!

Christians must have a passion for saving souls

by Barrett Vanlandingham

July 5, 2016

            As the sun came up this morning, the oohs and aahs of the previous night’s fireworks turn to a simple “ugh!” as daylight reveals the yearly leftover mess that must be swept and tossed into dumpsters.   The beautiful but costly displays in the night sky are gone, nothing left now but spent rockets, Roman candles, sparklers, and shreds of firecrackers everywhere. We as Americans have a passion for celebrating our nation’s independence and the sacrifices it took to get it. But as always with me, there’s a spiritual angle here that I just have to write about.

            We as Christians could learn a thing or two from this kind of passion. In my continuing series of articles focusing on re-charging certain things in our lives that we tend to let slide too much, I will be writing today about re-charging our passion for saving lost souls.

            If you’re like me, you tend to wait until someone asks you about matters of faith instead of asking them about their faith. There are three areas of this topic of “lost souls” I would like to address: 1) Seeking them out,  2) Helping them out,  3) How to keep yours from being one.

            The prophet Jeremiah penned these words spoken by our Lord, “My people have been lost sheep; their shepherds have led them astray and caused them to roam on the mountains. They wandered over the mountain and hill and forgot their own resting place (Jeremiah50:6).”

            The Christian’s resting place is heaven. Tragically, some who have been saved, will lose their resting place because of bad influences, false teachers, or their own evil desires (James 1:14). We as workers in the kingdom are to seek and save the lost. That includes both those who have never been saved, and also those who have wandered away.  This is part of imitating Jesus. “For the Son of Man cane to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10).” 

            Paul warned Christians in Rome, “For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live (Romans 8:13).”

            It is hard to flat out tell someone they are going to hell if they do not change their ways. In our “tolerant” culture today, that would be seen as judgmental, and would probably be a turn-off to most people. Christians must learn to lead by example. People notice. And when we talk to people about their souls, scripture tells us our words must be truthful and spoken in a spirit of love (ref: Ephesians 4:15).  When we visit with people about their spiritual weaknesses, it should be done prayerfully and tearfully. Remember, we will also be judged on that final day for our actions and careless words (ref: Matthew 7:1-6).”  Yes, we are our “brother’s keeper,” and we are also to help lead those who have never been saved into a relationship with Christ. I know I will be thankful on judgement day that someone helped me onto the right path.

            In regards to the question of how to keep from becoming a lost soul, Paul says this:

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes (ref: Ephesians 6:10-20).”

            Those are important words for “yet to be Christians” as well as those who have already put on Christ in baptism (Galatians 3:26-27).”  And as always, remember to pray (James 5:16). Hopefully, these thoughts about reviving our passion for lost souls will impact how you look at those close to you, and even random people God may place in your path.  Have a blessed day!

When God’s people are unified, good things happen

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 28, 2016

            In my continuing series of articles focusing on things we as Christians need to re-charge in our lives, today I want to write a few words about unity among believers in Christ.

            My family plays a variety of instruments: acoustic and electric guitars, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, piano, ukulele, flute, trumpet, and baritone.   So let’s say if we wanted to play a song together, it would be important for each instrument to be tuned to a standard tuner.  Yes, we could tune to each other’s instruments.  But at some point, we would find that even though our instruments may sound in tune with each other, they are not in tune with any real standard. So, eventually, as our instruments go out of tune, no one knows whose instrument, if any, is tuned most correctly.

            Most church groups I know of strive for unity. This doesn’t have to be as tough of a challenge as we sometimes make it out to be.  The fact that we all have such diverse interests and schedules doesn’t mean we cannot be unified in the ways that are truly important. In fact, just like those instruments I talked about, it is possible for Christians who haven’t even met to be united when we all tune our hearts to One common standard, Jesus. This is important because even though not everyone in the church is wired the same, we can reach unity in the faith when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, knowing that each Christian’s gift is of equal value in the Lord’s kingdom. Remember what the apostle Paul said?

            “4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully (Romans 12:4-8).”

            I think Paul used the phrase “in accordance with your faith” in the section on “prophesying” to remind us the importance of being willing to teach according to the ability God gives us as our faith grows, but also to not bind teachings on others that go beyond what has been revealed to us through God’s word.

            The glue of unity in the church is to love each other as Christ loves ALL of us (John 3:16). Christ died for ALL of us though we were not deserving (Romans 5:6-8). We are ALL made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27). The Holy Spirit dwells in ALL Christians (Acts 2:38 and 1 Corinthians 3:16). We should see Christ in ALL Christians (Ephesians 3:14-21), as we reflect the love of Jesus to ALL people, teaching them and making disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

            Unity among believers is the only possible outcome when we put God back on the throne, and commit to following His son. When this happens, there are many lost souls out there who will be saved because of our example and our teaching of His truths.  Have a blessed week!

Religion is more than just trying to be good

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 21, 2016

            This week, I am continuing a series of articles aimed at helping Christians remember to stay fully charged in some key areas of our spiritual journey.

            The first part focused on re-charging our honesty or integrity when it comes to how we approach scripture, being careful to take God at His word instead of editing what God said in order to fit how we want to do life. Part two dealt with the fact that God is not impressed with our worship when we only go through the motions instead of applying it to our lives.

            Now, I want to focus on being honest with regards to religion. There are as many definitions of religion as there are people who practice religion. Some people may define religion as a lifestyle of things you are allowed to do, and things you are not allowed to do. There is certainly a standard of morality and attitude the Bible teaches Jesus’ followers to practice (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and Galatians 5:22-23). In fact, the Bible says we will all be judged on that final day by the things we have said and done (2 Corinthians 5:10, Romans 2:6, and Matthew 12:36).

            In a letter written by James, possibly the brother of Jesus, a single verse turns the whole idea upside-down of what many believe it means to be religious!  “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world (James 1:27).”

            It is very possible, and even probable, that someone could live their whole life trying to impress God by trying to be good in the name of religion, while all along missing the boat entirely. God simply wants us to show our love and devotion. He knows we love Him by our obedience, but more importantly by showing love and compassion for widows and orphans, and those who are down and out.  Both James and Paul teach that living the Christian life is not something to wade into lightly or haphazardly.  

            “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:1-2).”

            Jesus himself spoke of the importance of counting the cost of being a disciple before making such a commitment (ref: Luke 14:25-30). The Christian life is not always the easiest, but it is definitely the most joyful life. May God bless your journey as you strive to put Him first. Have a blessed week!

God may not be as impressed with your worship as you think

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 14, 2016

           

            This summer at my teen church camp, my lessons will focus on some areas of our lives that need to be re-charged.

            Last week, I gave you a preview of lesson one: Honesty in Scripture, where we will learn about the importance of taking an honest approach to scripture, and being careful to not change the Bible to suit our tastes or agendas.

            This week, I am writing on the topic of re-charging our “Honesty in Worship.” In the Old Law, we find the writings of Amos, who was one of twelve designated Minor Prophets, not because their writings were less important at all, but because the books they wrote were shorter. As you can tell from God’s words being spoken through Amos here, the sentiments are anything but minor.

            21 “I hate, I despise your religious festivals;     your assemblies are a stench to me. 22 Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. Though you bring choice fellowship offerings, I will have no regard for them. 23 Away with the noise of your songs! I will not listen to the music of your harps. 24 But let justice roll on like a river,     righteousness like a never-failing stream! 25 “Did you bring me sacrifices and offerings forty years in the wilderness, people of Israel? 26 You have lifted up the shrine of your king, the pedestal of your idols, the star of your god which you made for yourselves. 27 Therefore I will send you into exile beyond Damascus,” says the Lord, whose name is God Almighty (Amos 5:21-27).

            In the New Testament, the apostle Paul (in 1 Corinthians 11:17-22) warned Christians that it was wrong to only think of only yourself, and even only God during worship. He says we should also be thinking about the welfare of our fellow Christians. After all, one of the biggest benefits of coming together as a church family is to encourage one another and meet each other’s needs (ref: Hebrews 10:23-27 and Acts 2:46).

            The apostle John quoted Jesus who was talking with a Samaritan woman on the topic of acceptable worship:

            23 “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24).”

            Jesus is telling the woman that it is important to worship God sincerely, intelligently, and genuinely, not just ceremonially. This is an important lesson for Christians today that when we worship, it should not be a time to simply check items of worship off of our list, but rather to think deeply about God’s word and will for us, and to sincerely apply this to our daily walk each day of our lives.  Have a blessed week!

An honest approach to scripture is vital

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 7, 2016

            With so many life choices to make these days, it would be easy to make the mistake of including scripture in that list of things we can edit, amend, or delete as we see fit. The problem with that approach to Bible study is simply that God’s word not only provides the answers to all of life’s toughest problems, but it also supplies us with a road map to heaven.

            The apostle Paul says, “All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17).”

            So, when we edit, amend, or delete portions of God’s word based on our personal preferences, we are not following God’s word anymore, but instead, our own version of what we want it to say. We are no longer thoroughly equipped because we have chosen to change the God-breathed words of the Bible in exchange for something way inferior. This means the answers to life’s toughest questions will not be correct, and neither will the road map to heaven. I don’t know about you. But if it weren’t for God’s word, I would not know the answer to many of life’s questions, nor would I know how to get to heaven. I am sure you’ve noticed that even when we try our best to follow God’s word, life is still full of trials. The difference is that when we follow God’s will, we can take joy in knowing that when this life is over, we have a home in heaven waiting for us, not because we’ve earned it, but because we trusted and obeyed God’s word. On top of that, if we teach others the Bible as God intended, that heavenly celebration we all look forward to will be even sweeter in the presence of those we introduced to Christ.

            Paul taught the Galatians the good news of Jesus Christ. But later, he found out that some of the church members had changed the details of Christ’s story, and were headed down the wrong path. Paul then delivered the sad news to them that those who turned to a different gospel would be under God’s curse (ref: Galatians 1:6-9).

            The writer of Revelation goes as far as to say that anyone who adds to or takes away from that scroll of prophecy will lose their heavenly reward (ref: Revelation 22:18-19).”

            Both of these examples are sobering reminders of just how important it is to let God be God, and to trust His word and no one else’s to bring us salvation.

            Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands (John 14:15).”  That’s pretty simple.  Have a blessed week!

Christians should have good taste and glowing reviews

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 31, 2016

            One of the hardest things for Christians to do, no matter what age, is to lead others to Christ. Even those who feel like they have a pretty good personal relationship with God often feel intimidated or inadequate when it comes to bringing others to Jesus.  At one of my summer camps we will be giving young Jesus followers some spiritual tools to help them bring others to Christ by being what Jesus calls “salt and light.”

            In the New Testament, we find Jesus sitting on a mountainside teaching his disciples. Before he was finished, large crowds had assembled to hear the One they had previously witnessed teaching and healing people with all kinds of diseases and demon possessions. They said Jesus was teaching and healing in a manner that was unlike anything they had ever seen.

            In explaining to the crowds how to bring honor to God, He said,

            “13 You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. 14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:13-16, ESV).”

            Jesus was a master at using whatever and whoever were around Him to better get His message across. No doubt, while sitting on a slope near the Sea of Galilee, His audience could relate perfectly to the importance of salt. After all, much of their food came from the water they were overlooking. And even though the Sea of Galilee is actually freshwater, they certainly understood the importance of using salt as both a preservative for their food, and to make it more flavorful.

            Jesus’ words apply to today’s Christians just as much as to the people who were listening to Him on that mountainside. A relationship without salt is doomed to fail because it has nothing to make the relationship tasteful, or make it last for the long haul. The salt of a Christian attitude includes things like selflessness, encouragement, love, honesty, patience, and loyalty.

            Jesus also spoke of the importance of his disciples being a light for others. No one knows for sure, but I imagine this gathering taking place after supper just before the sun went down. Maybe Jesus was pointing to lights coming from the nearby town of Capernaum, or possibly he was referring to torch lights from the crowds sitting on the hillside. Either way, his audience would understand when He said, “A city on a hill cannot be hidden.”

            We can be a light for Christ by being kind and helpful to those around us. The old saying, “Your reputation precedes you” applies to what Jesus is saying. A good reputation is priceless and hard to hide. When our attitudes and lives mirror the love of Jesus, people will naturally be more open to anything we have to say. Being salt and light will not only strengthen our spiritual walk, but also help others find Christ. Have a blessed week!

The greatest graduation gift of all is the Holy Spirit

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 24, 2016

            Well, another Fort Gibson graduating class is already a few days into that long awaited “next chapter in life.” The graduation ceremony is over. They’ve walked the stage. There’s no more high school to attend, no more pep rallies, no more EOI testing, no more detention, no more AP classes, no more school bus rides, no more practices for extracurricular activities, and no more school lunches in the Tiger Cafeteria. So many things to miss!

            So what lies ahead now? Some will jump right in and start working full-time jobs, some will be off to the military defending our country, and some off to get a college education in hopes of landing their dream job someday. This is that time in life where there is not just a fork in the road, but more like a big rake in the expressway, with each point leading to a very different kind of life. For high school graduates, the pressure can seem overwhelming because they don’t fully know what experiences lie ahead depending on which direction, or inner dispersal loop on-ramp they choose.

            Even though a lot of things are uncertain, one thing is for sure. If you are a baptized believer, the Bible says that you have the gift of the Holy Spirit. You will never be alone. God’s Holy Spirit dwells inside you, and will go with you on every journey for as long as you are on this earth. That’s a BIG deal, because the Holy Spirit comforts us (Acts 9:31), guides us and identifies us as children of God (Romans 8:14), helps us talk to God (Romans 8:26-27), teaches us (1 Corinthians 12:8), challenges us to live better lives (Galatians 5:25), and marks us as saved for that final day (ref: 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 and Ephesians 1:13).

            Under the Old Law before Jesus came and died, God’s children could be obedient by following sets of rules and giving an animal sacrifice each year, but none of those things could save them. Perfection could not be found in any of those things. It wasn’t until Jesus came along, lived a perfect life, died on the cross as the perfect sacrifice, and ascended back to His Father that sins could actually be forgiven. Christ’s blood flowed backwards to cover those who were obedient in the Old Law days, and it flowed forward to cover those who are obedient to the New Covenant/Testament which Christians live by today.

             In Acts 2:38, Peter had just finished preaching the first Gospel sermon since the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus had taken place. Many Jews who had previously not believed that Jesus was God’s son now believed. They were cut to the heart (remorseful) for having had anything to do with the crucifixion. They asked what they needed to do.  Peter said, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).”

            A lot of gifts are given to high school graduates. But the gift of the Holy Spirit would be the best one of all. If you or someone you know would like to study the Bible with me about this blessed gift, I would be happy to visit in person, on the phone, or through e-mail.  Have a great week!    

A hopeful day is always ahead

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 17, 2016

            “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I will hope in him (Lamentations 3:22-24).”

             Jeremiah, known as the “weeping prophet”, is traditionally thought to have authored the Old Testament book of Lamentations. You may have heard his words from the above text put to music. If you only read those verses, you wouldn’t know that the book as a whole is actually a despairing poem about the destruction of Jerusalem in about 586 B.C.

            God’s prophets were always telling His people to shape it up, or face some serious consequences. But even when the Jews obeyed God, it was never for very long. They always managed to fall away, disobey, follow other gods, or all of the above. So, in this case, the consequences were that Jerusalem was destroyed, and King Nebuchadnezzar took captive some of the best and the brightest of its young citizens such as Ezekiel, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. But whereas they were taken to Babylon, Jeremiah was left in Jerusalem where he had to face the destruction of his community every single day. On top of that, many people simply hated Jeremiah because he was the bearer of bad news of the destruction before it came.

            In our lifetimes, many things change. God’s word is not one of those things. Each generation worries about what’s happening in our world. We are thrown off balance. We wonder what God’s plans are for fixing things, and whether we will get to be a part of the solution, or a casualty of God’s wrath brought about by our own generation’s disobedience and rebelliousness. Instead of holding to God’s unchanging hand, our generation as a whole has chosen to fall into the devil’s ever-changing deceitful and alluring traps that adjust and morph to take advantage of each generation’s pride and weaknesses.

            Even with all of the destruction that Jeremiah and so many other prophets witnessed throughout the ages, they always remembered and credited God for being their only hope, if anyone would listen and obey. This is also true for us today even though, just like back then, there will be consequences we will all have to live with because of the choices we have made as a nation.

            Just like Jeremiah, we can always hope in this: God’s love is never-ending. His mercies for us never lose their power. They will be just as new and fresh tomorrow when you wake up, as today. We have a new opportunity every morning to draw nearer to God, His love, and His mercies. The choice is ours.  Have a blessed week!

God’s grace covers more than we will ever know

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 10, 2016

            I am so thankful for the blessings of life.  Yes, we all have things in our lives we would rather do without. If we didn’t, we would already be in heaven. But a few days ago, I was sitting at my desk making my song list for Sunday when blessings began to flood my mind so much it was a little overwhelming.  If this has never happened to you, I encourage you to take some time out away from any distractions, and just think about all the ways you have been blessed, and then talk to God, and express to Him as best you can your thankfulness.

            My moment might have had something to do with the song I was reading through at the moment: “Grace Greater Than Our Sin.”  I had already been thinking of how grateful I was for the sunshine, the cool breeze, the green grass, and the church volunteers who were cutting the grass that day.  I had also been reading online the thoughtful sentiments so many had posted on Facebook about some of the beautiful qualities that make mothers so special.

            All that being said, it was the words of that song about God’s grace that truly blew me away. I think it was the line that said, “Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt.”  What a tremendous and indescribable gift we have in the form of God’s grace.

            Our pulpit minister, Dan Rouse, has been preaching for over forty years. He told me it has only been in the last several years that he has even begun to comprehend the role that grace plays in our salvation. Dan says that a good example of grace would be the fact that he was baptized into Christ as a boy. Since then, he has gained a lot more knowledge and has done a lot more things for the Lord. But he said that he is no more saved today (or in his words, “saved-er”) than he was back then, thanks to God’s grace.  

            I think most of us have a difficult time accepting or even understanding grace. It truly is hard to accept that no matter how hard we try to do everything right, we’re going to fall short (Romans 3:23). That is why we need God’s grace. If it weren’t for grace, none of us would have a chance to enter heaven.

            The apostle Paul, in one of his earliest letters, told the Galatians about the importance of believing in Jesus Christ, and putting Him on in baptism in regards to their salvation (Galatians 3:1-14 and 3:26-27). He also reminded the Romans of this several years later (Romans 3:22-31 and 6:1-11).  A few years after that, Paul told people in Ephesus who had already obeyed this same pattern, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).”  Still, Paul says it would not be right for us to purposely sin just so grace could bail us out (Rom. 6:1).

            When Paul wrote letters to local churches, he always had a purpose. Maybe the Ephesians were a little like me, unable to comprehend grace, so we stress out trying to do everything right, even though there is nothing we can do on our own to make it into heaven. Sure, I can obey as best I can. All of the New Testament writers talk about the importance of obedience, and God knows our hearts. But if I could earn my salvation, there would have been no need for Jesus to come to earth and die on a cross for my sins. So, today and always, I am grateful for God’s grace. Have a blessed week!

Graduation is an exciting time for young Christians

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 3, 2016

            As if most parents of high school seniors don’t mope around enough over the fact their child is quickly checking off that “list of lasts” characterized by their long awaited senior year, we have finally hit the month of May. That’s when days feel like months to the students, and a month feels like no time at all to parents who will soon see their kids move on to their next chapter in life. 

            For many young Christians getting ready to graduate, the coming months and years will bring new kinds of trials. It will be the first time they will go through situations without the immediate help of parents to advise them on what to do. This is when they find out if they really were listening to their parents, trusted friends and relatives, and Bible class teachers.

            This time of year, churches everywhere pray that the young people they send out into the world after high school will not only be prepared to represent Jesus Christ in all aspects of their lives, but will have the confidence, courage, and strength it takes to follow through with what they know is right. Applying that knowledge is usually the hardest part of living the Christian life, whether you’re a teen or an adult. That’s why it is so important to remember to pray about it.

            The apostle Paul penned the following verses in a letter to the church in Philippi about 2000 years ago. But his inspired message means just as much today just as much as it did back then:

            “8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you (Philippians 4:8-9).”

            Those words from Paul are some of my favorites. In just two verses, Paul manages to sum up the answers to any truly important questions a graduate could have. In fact, no matter what time of life we’re in, those two verses will point our attitudes away from the wrong, and into the right direction. He even gives us a way to know if we’re on the right track. Peace of mind is a short checklist that most of us can figure out pretty quickly.

            So in reality, whether you’re a parent or a student, the emphasis of a quickly dwindling senior year should not be on a “list of lasts”, but instead on exciting and new beginnings, and opportunities for faith building, and bringing others to Jesus.  Have a blessed week!

Getting the big picture in your Christian walk is important

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 26, 2016

            Did you ever get yourself into a situation of responsibility that made you think, “How did I get into this?”  Well, my mother in law volunteered me to be the photographer for her brother’s wedding last week. In her defense, she knows I have a very nice camera I use for this and that.  The problem is, until last Friday, I had never been a wedding photographer.  The pressure was on for me to do a really good job.

            The problem with photography in general is that each time the lighting conditions change, you have to change the settings on your camera, unless you have it set to automatic. The problem with “auto” is that the camera doesn’t always get it right, so the photographer has to manually switch the settings. That was the part I was stressed about since even though I am not a beginner, I am also far from professional level. But after I started doing a little research, asking questions of experienced photographers, and practicing what I had learned, I found the challenge of doing a wedding wouldn’t be nearly as bad as I thought.

            As a minister, I couldn’t help but equate this scenario with the Christian life which is also challenging, to say the least. But I have found when I research and study the issues I have questions about, seek advice from more mature Christians or maybe Christians who have more experience in a particular area, and then apply that knowledge to my life, I find my spiritual battles don’t always have to feel so lopsided against me.

            One major difference between photography and Christianity is the “automatic” and “manual” settings. With photography, you have to adjust the camera’s setting to fit your environment. But with Christianity, you have only one setting, “LOVE.” So, in general, you have to choose in which environments or situations you are willing to put yourself. With a camera, you make decisions on the spot, depending on how your situation changes. But with Christianity, your setting is always on “love.” 

            Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” and “Love your neighbor as yourself (Mark 12:30-31).”

            Someone who loves God will strive to not put themselves in a position that forces them into having to make the decision of how to react. You know, questions like, “Should I, or shouldn’t I? But even if you do find yourself in a bad situation, it is never too late to do the right thing. Just remember, the correct setting in the Christian life is always to show that you “love God” by obeying His commands (ref: John 14:15,23).”   You may still wind up suffering consequences in this lifetime for a bad decision, but turning your dial back to “love” for God will have eternal rewards.  Have a blessed week!         

Evidence and logic can help build your faith

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 17, 2016

            “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge (2 Peter 1:5).”

            The other day a campus minister friend told me about a strange conversation he had with a young man who has started attending his church. When asked about his faith, the young man said, “I’m an atheist.”  Obviously, this stunned my friend since most people you meet at church believe in God.  So, my friend asked the young man why he comes to church if he doesn’t believe in God. The answer? “I’m bored.”  This didn’t really surprise me since I’d heard it years before from a friend who attended church three times a week because of the “nice people there” even though he said he didn’t believe in God. Well, I thought, at least they know what they do not believe in, and why they do what they do.

            This thought process made me think about my answers to faith-related questions such as “Why do I do what I do, and exactly what do I believe, and why?”  How about you? If someone asked you why you go to church, or why you believe in God, would you have a good answer? For me, I am continually sculpting my answers to these kinds of questions, not so much in the area of Bible doctrine, but in areas of evidence and logic that help me give answers that maybe someone hasn’t thought about.

            My campus minister friend (who also happens to be a math teacher) brought up a very good point. If he waded through a creek, tipped over a rock, and found a Rolex watch with its tiny intricate 220 parts all still intact or not, most people would agree the watch, at some point, had been manufactured. In other words, the watch did not just appear there over billions of years because the stream needed it to appear or manufacture itself from elements found in the creek bed. Most rational thinking people would say the watch obviously had a designer.

            Oddly enough, the human body has thousands of living parts of varying sizes from the cell on up, all working perfectly to keep our bodies going, and yet, many people think the human body is just an accident that formed over billions of years, without God’s help. No Designer. Wow! You talk about a belief system that requires a lot of faith! That would be one. It makes no sense, but that’s exactly where a lot of people stand. As for evolution, not even one piece of evidence has ever been discovered showing that one kind of animal has ever turned into another.

            I even have a few Christian friends who believe that God created the process of evolution in order to create us. That doesn’t work either, since so many of the tiny parts of our bodies such as protein, DNA, and cell’s energy producer known as ATP had to be in existence, fully formed at the same time, in order for each to play crucial roles in the manufacture of the other. Similarly, the human eye, the cell’s locomotion device known as flagellum, and blood clotting are also examples of things that could not have come about through evolution since in order for them to work at all, the entire unit or process had to have existed in full form at the start, not evolved.

            For me, the fact that the Bible has proven to be the most accurate and oldest history book is a really good tool to add to my faith box. Also, the Bible has been very helpful in discoveries related to all areas of science. This lends huge amounts of convincing evidence supporting the Bible’s claims of how the universe was created by the God. Also, the Bible has never been proven wrong, on anything. Yes, it still takes faith to believe in God. But one day, faith and hope will not be necessary. Only love will remain, forever. Have a blessed week!

Singing like an angel may not be a compliment

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 12, 2016

            I always enjoy the singing part of worship, when the voices of my church family blend the “fruit of lips” (Hebrews 13:15) in praise to God. Singing as worship holds a special place in scripture that surfaces in times of celebration and in times of stress and sorrow, and is not limited to an activity that takes place inside a church building. In addition to Sunday, worship, including singing, can take place anywhere, anytime, everywhere, all the time.

            We can only assume, since so much is written in the Bible about singing to God, that He appreciates the songs we sing to Him, provided we are sincere in the words we offer to God. If our walk doesn’t match our talk (or our worship), then God rejects our offerings (Isaiah 1:10-15, Amos 5:21-23). Our acts of worship are a very important part of our relationship with God. Singing is a big part of that. In fact, we may not be the only ones singing. Zephaniah 3:17 makes mention of God rejoicing over His people with singing. What a beautiful thought. Just imagine, God singing over us!

            Traditionally, we often talk about angels singing. But do they really sing? In the Bible, we read about angels speaking, shouting, and praising, but we never hear about them singing. Even in Luke’s account of the birth of the Christ child, the angels praised God “saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest (ref: Luke 2:10-14).’”

            Revelation 5:8-9 speaks of four living creatures and 24 elders singing a new song to Christ, the Lamb of God. But angels are not included in the reference to singing. In verse 2, angels “proclaimed”, and in verses 11-12, thousands of angels in a loud voice were “saying”. But still, no mention of singing.

            Yes, I know, this is a difficult pill to swallow if you’re like me, and have always imagined angels singing. After all, dozens, possibly even hundreds of songs have been written about singing angels and their harps, which the Bible doesn’t mention either. Just people and those same four living creatures previously mentioned have harps. The trumpet seems to be the instrument preferred by God for His angels (ref: Revelation 8-9).

            It may just be that singing is something God has reserved only for His most special creation of humans, either as our offering to Him, or when He sings over us (and those four living creatures). Whatever the case, there is no doubt that when Christians come together to sing praises to God, the love and joy that God blesses us with in return is very real. Personally, I think those feelings may very well be the result of God singing over us, because He loves us.

            Having said all of that, the idea of angels singing is not out of the realm of possibility. Psalm 47:6-7 and James 5:13 would seem to make a close connection between praising and singing. Still, for all the mention of people and even heavenly creatures singing, there is no reference to singing angels.

   Nevertheless, being told you sing like an angel may not be a compliment after all, even though praising, proclaiming, and shouting can take place within the context of singing. But even if angels are not capable of singing, we can be joyful that the Creator of all things (including angels) is capable of singing over us, with us, and even sometimes in spite of us.  Have a blessed week!