Above the Sun: Graduating seniors must learn to discern

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 13, 2018

          The other day my friend Leon dropped by the church offices to say hi to our church secretary (his wife, Janet). I was trying to think of something to write about regarding graduation. So, I asked Leon for an idea. He said the only thing on his mind at the moment was the weed-eating task he was trying to complete on the church grounds.  BINGO.

          It’s a special time of year for graduates everywhere. They are not only graduating from something, they are also graduating to something, a life of endless possibilities!  The opportunities and dangers will both come quickly and when they least expect it. So, graduates must learn as soon as possible which things to cultivate, and which things to cut.

          The apostle Paul said, ”¹⁵ Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise,¹⁶ making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

          In chapter five, Paul specifically mentions issues that Christians in Ephesus had dealt with: sexual immorality, sins of the mouth, greed, idolatry, and drunkenness along with the sins it promotes. He told Christians in Colossae the same thing, and added this:

          “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17).

          This passage is a really good measuring stick to help graduating seniors and the rest of us decide what God wants us to keep and what to cut from our lives (John 15:2-6). If whatever we say, do, and think can be done with the blessing of Jesus, then it stays because it is good fruit growing in our lives. If not, then the limbs and the bad fruit have to be cut. Paul repeats this idea in Philippians 4:8 to Christians in Philippi, reminding them to allow their minds to be occupied only by good things.

          I wish I could tell Paul that time has made morality a priority since the first century. But one quick look at the nightly news says otherwise, and even refutes those who think the Bible is too old and outdated to be relevant today.

          God’s word is STILL right on target, a much needed silver lining to all of the hurdles and forks in the road ahead for a younger generation that needs the rock steady foundation of God’s truths more than ever. Have a great day!

Above the Sun: Encouraging words go further than you think

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 6, 2018

          Proverbs 16:24 says, “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

          There is good reason God’s Word, the Bible, speaks so much about the importance of the words we choose to use in our conversations with others, or even when no one else is around. The words we use really do make a difference in how other people feel, and how we feel about ourselves and others.

          Recently, my friend and coworker, Steve Parker, told me about a conversation his wife, Charlotte, had with a 97-year old woman she met the other day. When the woman discovered that Charlotte’s husband is one of the ministers at the Fort Gibson church of Christ, she let Charlotte know she reads my column, every week, and even cuts them out of her paper to save.

          I just want to say “Thank you” to that sweet 97-year old woman for passing along such encouraging words. It really did make a difference in my day and in the days since.

My wife, Lisa, is also an encourager. After hearing this story, she reminded me that my columns are probably stuck on refrigerators everywhere!  Thanks honey, no pressure (smile). I am just seriously humbled that out of all of the things a 97-year old woman has seen and heard, she regards my column as something worth saving. I will say it again, I am truly humbled by this.

          Words of encouragement always seem to come along at just the right time, don’t they? Sometimes, we offer or receive encouraging words face to face. Other times, we receive encouragement from someone who spoke with someone else, or overheard a conversation. The reverse is also true. That is why it is important to remember that once our words leave our mouths, they can travel long distances. This is why we should heed the words the apostle Paul wrote to Christians in Colossae:

          “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:6).

          Paul is aware that Christians there have lots of opportunity to speak with outsiders. He instructs them to speak in a way that would encourage non-Christians and Christians alike. In context, Paul places encouraging speech in the same category as prayer, thankfulness, teaching the good news of Jesus, and being wise in conduct. The same is true for us today. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Don’t choke on the devil blowing smoke

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 29, 2018

          Grassfires and forest fires in Oklahoma have been pretty bad lately.  When any natural (or not natural) disaster causes loss of property or life, we often question God.

          As Christians, we know it’s best to think “above the sun.” From Ecclesiastes, we know everything on earth or “under the sun” is meaningless (or at best temporary), and we should put our hope in God and His promises which are “above the sun.”  But sometimes it is hard to think “above the sun” when you look up and only see smoke.

          The devil is good at placing smoke screens in our way to deceive or distract us from what we know to be God’s truths. This has been going on since the beginning of mankind.

          In Genesis 3, we read about the smoke screen of lies that started in the Garden of Eden just after God told Adam to take care of the garden. He was not to eat from one certain tree or he would die. But when Satan approached Adam’s woman named Eve, he convinced her it would be okay. And it wasn’t that hard. The devil changed just ONE word of God’s command, and then threw up a smoke screen that twisted the consequences. The devil said to Eve, “You will not die”… “You will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

          Eve got too close to the devil’s trap. She engaged in conversation with him even though she knew he was lying. The more time she spent with him blowing smoke, the harder it was to see the truth. Eventually, the devil’s argument was so convincing she fell for it. Then, she went to Adam and convinced him to go against God’s will that had been so clearly stated.

          It was in the cool of the day that Adam and Eve heard God walking in the garden. This may have been a common occurrence. But this time things were different. Adam and Eve were afraid of God because they now realized they had disobeyed. Instead of trusting that God knew what was best for them, they had taken their eyes off of Him and began to focus on the beauty of the forbidden fruit. In other words, they had begun to look “under the sun” for things that would make them happy.

          When the trials of life come your way, remember to look “above the sun” for answers from the One who will save us in the end.  Have a great week!

Above the Sun: The Christian walk is a full-time ministry

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 22, 2018

          Somebody recently asked me about my philosophy of ministry.  Paid minister or “Joe Christian” just trying to please God, I think the philosophy of ministry is the same. All Christians are part of a royal priesthood, and we are all to teach (1 Peter 2:9, Matthew 28:19-20).

          Christians must make sure everything we do, say, or think can be done in the name of the Lord (Colossians 3:17, Philippians 4:8), and keeps in step with God’s inspired word (Galatians 5:25, 2 Timothy 3:16-17).  Any other way would not only send us in the wrong direction, but those who follow our example.

          As for specifics in ministry philosophy? Praying to God is the best place to start (1 John 5:15). Also listening to God and to each other (Matthews 7:24, Romans 10:17, and James 1:19).

          We must continually increase in knowledge of God’s word in order to do any kind of effective ministry (2 Pet. 1:8), and remember people do not care how much knowledge you have if you don’t have the right attitude. Christians must speak the truth, but always in a spirit of love (Ephesians 4:15). 

          When people trust that you have their best interest at heart, they will be more likely to listen to what you have to say. Then, you may have the opportunity to tell someone about the hope you have in Christ Jesus (1 Pet. 3:15). Every Christian’s faith journey is a ministry, and is just as much about what we do as what we say and believe (James 2:26 and Matthew 12:36-37).

          Ministry is messy. People have many different ways they learn. So we as ministers (yes, all Christians) must be patient with each other as we all take advantage of every Biblically backed means necessary to reach out and bring souls to the Lord.

          Jesus used miracles and even something as simple as writing in the dirt to make His point. The Pharisees criticized Jesus for healing on the Sabbath, and allowing His disciples to pick grain on the Sabbath (Luke 6). Jesus showed common sense and grace.

          God has always used creative ways to effectively get people’s attention. In fact, when the Lord brings us home to heaven, we will hear a blast from the trumpet of God, and we will see Jesus coming in the clouds (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

          Bottom line? Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And love all people (Mark 12:28-34).  Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Be Prepared for Christ’s Return!

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 15, 2018

          You’ve just got to love when April 15th falls on Sunday. This means two extra days to get your taxes filed! While deadlines are nice to mark on our calendars, there is one very important day no one can predict.

          It’s called Judgment Day. This is one deadline none of us will miss, and definitely one we all want to be ready for. We can be ready if we live our lives in obedience to Jesus Christ, with “above the sun” mindsets instead of placing our priorities in things “under the sun” as Solomon writes about in Ecclesiastes.

          The Bible speaks of being prepared in a couple of ways:  Peter reminds Christians to be prepared to tell others why we have hope (1 Pet. 3:15). And then Paul says when it comes to teaching, Christians should “be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Tim. 4:2).  

          By being prepared to teach others about what Jesus has done for us, and about God’s will for all people, this keeps our mind focused on what’s important.  It also puts us in a unique position to partner with Christ in saving souls by reaching out to the broken and lost. This task was one of Jesus’ very last commands before He ascended back to His father (Mathew 28:19-20).

          The second way the Bible speaks of being prepared is closely connected to the first: being prepared for Christ’s return.

          Jesus said, “But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him” (Luke 12:39-40).

          The most studied Bible scholars have no idea when that will happen. The good thing about Judgment Day is that we do not need anyone to predict when it will happen, as long as we know it will happen, and we do. The Bible says, “People are destined to die once, and then face judgment” (Hebrews 9:27).  That’s pretty clear.

          Are you committed to Jesus Christ? Have you obeyed His plan for your salvation? Remember, being in a right relationship with Christ is not just a one-time event, and it is not just about what you believe. It is also a lifestyle.   If you are not sure you are prepared for the Day He is coming back, just know you can be. There are many in our church family who would love to study further with you about this. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: There is good reason to keep your head up

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 8, 2018

         

          As you may have noticed, the title of my column has been changed to “Above the Sun” instead of “Fort Faith,” the title it had for the last 11 years. The new title and positioning in the Sunday paper will invite a larger audience than when it reached out mainly to Fort Gibson readers in the Tuesday edition.

          The reason I chose “Above the Sun” is because of the many times the wisest man who ever lived, Solomon, used the phrase “under the sun” in Ecclesiastes. One of the more famous uses of this phrase was when Solomon said “there is nothing new under the sun” (Eccl 1:9). In fact, he spends much of his time in this Old Testament book writing about the meaninglessness of wisdom, pleasure, labor, riches, and pretty much everything else mankind experiences “under the sun.” According to Solomon, things here on planet earth are pretty bleak.

          If there is one thing people today should learn from Solomon’s search for meaning in life, it would be that it cannot be found by looking “under the sun.”  He repeats “under the sun” or “under the heavens” more than 30 times in less than complimentary terms. So, if Solomon was not very impressed with chasing things “under the sun,” maybe we should be looking “above the sun” for meaning in life.  At the end of Ecclesiastes, Solomon says, “Here is the conclusion of the matter: fear God and keep his commandments” (12:13).

          About 900 years later, Jesus came on the scene and chose fishermen: Peter, Andrew, James, and John to be His first disciples. Jesus performed a miracle by allowing them to catch so many fish that their boats began to sink (Luke 5:1-7). Then, He told them from now on they would “fish for people” (Matthew 4:18-22 and Luke 5:10).

          Up until that point, these fishermen were “under the sun” thinkers, only concerned with catching fish. When Jesus entered the picture, they learned to think “above the sun.” He helped them understand joy in this life is only possible when we connect our lives here to our ultimate destination. Catching fish is fine, but catching souls and going to heaven is better. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: There is always more to learn about Easter

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 27, 2018

          On behalf of children everywhere, please restrain yourselves from telling the kids to go hunt Easter eggs you haven’t hidden yet just so you can say, “April Fools!!”

          The last time Easter Sunday fell on April 1^st was in 1998, and the next time will be in 2029. So if your 2-year old doesn’t get the joke this time, you can always try it again when they’re 13 (smile).

          The floating date of Easter was decided long ago. In 325 A.D. Roman Emperor Constantine gathered 300 church leaders from several countries to have a meeting in Nicaea (in Turkey). Their discussions decided Easter should not coincide with a particular phase of the moon. This resulted in Easter being placed on or after the first day of spring (vernal equinox) on the first Sunday after the first full moon of spring.

          We can be sure that today’s Easter celebrations of Jesus’ resurrection take place during the correct season because Jesus ate the Jewish Passover meal the same week He was crucified. The Passover celebration always took place the same time of year.

          On Thursday of that week, after Jesus and His disciples ate the Passover meal (aka: Last Supper), the Jewish supreme court, known as the Sanhedrin, had Jesus arrested and convicted on false charges. On Friday, the Romans crucified Jesus. Then, a wealthy member of the court who was a secret follower of Jesus, Joseph of Arimathea, got permission from the governor of Judea, Pilate, to take down Jesus’ body, wrap it, and place it in a “tomb cut in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid” (Luke 23:53).  

          We do not know much about Joseph, except for his generosity that day, and the fact that he did not consent to the crucifixion (Luke 23:51). We can only presume that if word got out about who cared for Jesus’ body, Joseph would have faced great persecution, along with his helper and co-council member, Nicodemus.

          Something tells me that when the events of Sunday came, those who believed in Jesus knew without a doubt that any trouble they faced in this life because of Jesus would have been worth it. The same is true today.  Have a great week!

Some memories may never go away

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 20, 2018

          With Easter only two more Sundays away, I can’t help but feel a little nostalgic thinking about family gatherings over the years. And though they get harder to remember with each passing year, it occurs to me that memories may last longer than we think.

          In the after-life, whether saved or unsaved, our family and friends will remember life on earth. It makes sense that heaven will seem sweeter if we are able to remember how we got there. Likewise, those who receive eternal punishment will be more remorseful by remembering their choices. In either case, earthly memories will figure in to how “we’ll understand it all by and by.”

          In the after-life story of the rich man who was in “Torment”, and poor man Lazarus who was in “Abraham’s side” or “Paradise,” Abraham indicates he was aware of the unfortunate relationship between the rich man and Lazarus while they were living, and how the rich man showed little, if any, compassion. Abraham basically said it was too late for the rich man to change his sad outcome.

          The rich man wanted Lazarus to bring him some cool water, but the separation between them prevented this. The rich man also wanted Lazarus to go back to his father’s house to warn his five living brothers so they could repent (Luke 16:19-31). Abraham said the rich man’s brothers wouldn’t listen anyway, even if the messenger were a resurrected dead man!       

          By the way, Abraham’s talk of living people and a messenger’s resurrection from the dead seems to indicate the immediate after-life mentioned here is not the same as heaven or hell which comes at Judgment Day.

          Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John each have wonderful accounts of the resurrection of Jesus, and of His interactions with friends afterwards. It will be amazing someday to stand in the same circle with men and women who witnessed Jesus’ final days here, and to see their faces as they remember, and tell their stories of gratitude.

          I encourage each of you to spend time with God, family, and friends on Easter Sunday and every day possible. And even though our special memories here will fade with time, that won’t be the case forever.  Have a great week!

Counting down to Easter with special memories

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 13, 2018

          When I was a kid, one of my favorite things was to smell the roses and irises that bloomed in our front yard in the spring. It was a close race on which one smelled the best.

          One year, I remember asking my mom if I could cut off one of the roses for me to wear to church that morning because it was Easter Sunday. I remember that day well because I figured the answer would probably be “no” since the rose bushes were quite a showpiece for our yard. But to my surprise and joy, my mom said, “sure!”  There were bunches of them, so I picked the one I wanted, and mom helped me pin it to my suit jacket.

          That was a good day. I wore that rose to church with pride. I don’t remember if any of the other boys got to wear a rose. But I am thankful I did. The sunshine that day, the roses, and the satisfaction of getting to wear a rose on Easter Sunday has stuck in my mind ever since.

          I knew that particular Sunday, out of all the others in the year, must be very special since my mom let me pick that rose.  I would find out later that, in fact, Easter Sunday is more significant than I ever knew! It is the day that Christians all around the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the day in history that proved to the world that Jesus was actually the “anointed one” or “the Christ.” He was and still is the Son of God!

          Jesus’ identity as the Son of God was proven to be true by the empty grave, and by his many appearances to hundreds of people during the forty days he spent on earth between the resurrection and his ascension to the Father.

          The resurrected Jesus was not a ghost. His disciples grabbed hold of his feet and worshipped him, Thomas felt Jesus’ scars. Other disciples ate meals with Him.

          The probability of a risen Savior is believable, not just because of the mountains of Bible and non-Bible evidence, but because of the countless lives that have been changed for the better. Have a great week!

Easter really is a big deal

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 6, 2018

          In less than a month, people everywhere will be celebrating Easter. Many locals here in Fort Gibson will bring their children to our church grounds for a massive egg hunt on Saturday, March 31 at 1:00pm. Others will celebrate by participating in a special Easter worship service that focuses on Christ’s resurrection.

          I enjoy both kinds of celebration. After all, who doesn’t like to watch children hunting eggs, and who doesn’t like to hear the story of Jesus’ resurrection in a worship setting or in a play? The Bible is a huge fan of events that bring people together, and provide opportunities for Christians to practice hospitality in our communities (Luke 14:12-14, Matthew 25:34-40, 1 Peter 4:8-9, Romans 12:13-20). There may not be a command of “Thou shalt celebrate Easter” in the Bible, but we no doubt are directed to meet (Hebrews 10:25) and learn God's word.

          Some of the final words Jesus spoke are recorded in the Great Commission. It’s where Jesus told his disciples to go and make more followers, baptizing them and “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20).  The word “all” is a very big word and would certainly include teachings about the resurrection which is key to making followers.

          The apostle Paul told young Timothy that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).  Once again, the word “all” is used, followed by several descriptions of how the stories of the Bible are to be used.

          After Jesus healed a man possessed by a demon, Jesus told him to “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you” (Mark 5:19). There is no greater gift to tell people about than the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

          Christ commanded his disciples to “be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Jesus said those words after His resurrection from the tomb, just before He ascended back to His Father. His followers had an obligation to tell others about these wonderful events! We do too.  Have a great week!

Sin is no match for grace

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 27, 2018

          Everyone sins. The Bible says so, and in our heart of hearts, we know so. Some sins are intentional or willful, others are accidental. So even though we all have free will, nobody is exempt from stumbling into the long arm of temptation.

          “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

          We also know that any sin, great or small, is enough to send us to hell if we are not in a spiritually saved condition.

          “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

          The phrase “in Christ Jesus” is important. The apostle Paul tells us that believers get “into Christ” (where eternal life is) by being baptized (Romans 6:3-5 and Galatians 3:26-27). It is only because of God’s grace that He allows any of us to follow this path of righteousness that leads to salvation (Romans 5:20-6:2).

          Grace is an amazing thing. We really would be lost without Jesus’ commitment to saving us in spite of our continual shortcomings. We can do and do and do, but none of us can earn a spot in heaven. It is God’s grace that not only makes up the difference for our failures, but gives our faith, trust, and obedience one more great reason to exist in the first place, in other words, a legitimate place in helping decide our eternal destiny.

          Jesus said, “For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done” (Matthew 16:27).

          If you’re like me, you sometimes have difficulty accepting and forgiving struggling sinners, while rejecting the sin. But God is patient with us (2 Peter 3:9), and he forgives us even though we are not deserving. God wants us to do the same for others (Matthew 6:15). God also wants us to love and pray for those who hurt us, and to be merciful to the ungrateful (Luke 6:27-36).

          This week, let’s strive to forgive and accept struggling sinners, and let God deal with their sin and ours, too.  Have a good day!

There is no reason to live in confusion

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 20, 2018

          One day it’s 15-degrees, another day it’s 75, then 40.  Ice, sunshine, then rain.  Nothing seems to be consistent with the weather these days except for the inconsistency. People who live life like this experience no peace and no joy here on earth.

          There is One who can offer us everything we need, because He is the Creator of all things, and He is always consistent. He is our Lord God. The writer of the book of Hebrews reminds us of the importance of putting God first.  He alone is the answer to all of our worries and problems. The writer also reminds us to take note of faithful Christians whose priorities are evident by the fruit of their lives.

          “5 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 6 So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”

7 Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. 9 Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings” (Hebrews 13:5-8).

          Notice this passage does not say you will live a life free of problems. It says God will help us every step of the way when we make the choice to walk His righteous path. The Bible reminds us trouble will come even for those who live righteously, citing “a servant is not greater than his master” (John 15:18-21). But Jesus reassures us that since He overcame the world, we will too if we follow Him (ref: John 16:33).

          Even though these sporadic weather days make no sense to us any more than the struggles of life, we’re not God, and there is no way we can understand life’s challenges and disappointments, and how “God works for the good of those who love him” (Romans 8:28). But we can know for sure that God understands, and He sees clearly the victory that is ours because of His Son. Have a great week!

Love, it’s the best!!

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 13, 2018

          Articles I’ve read say the 55-percent of Americans who celebrate Valentine’s Day will spend about $140 a person. That’s nearly 20-billion dollars in cards, candy, flowers, going out to dinner, and other gifts.

          Love is an amazing thing. And even though God created it, people have tried for generations to improve upon it. But anything other than God’s description of love is not love at all. The apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians 13 to describe “the most excellent way” of life:

          “1 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

          4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

          8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

          13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

Have a great week!

Jesus loves you

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 6, 2018

          In just about a week or so, expressions of LOVE, LOVE, and more LOVE will be spoken, written, and delivered in many different ways as Valentine’s Day takes center stage. And other than the extreme commercialization of it all, and the bank breaking prices of roses during February, no one can argue against those old song lyrics: “What the world needs now is love, sweet love.”        By the way, your local flower shop is not totally at fault for the higher prices. But that’s a story for another day.

          Jesus is a huge fan of love!  During the last supper, he said to his disciples, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).

          This passage coupled with His previous statement in Mark 12:28-31 about the greatest command being that of loving God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and also loving your neighbor as yourself leave no doubt where Jesus’ heart is.  He wants us to show love, by looking out for one another’s highest good, and by obeying His teachings (John 14:23). Jesus loved us enough to die for us, but He also wants to give us a home in heaven (ref: John 3:16). It’s a guaranteed prize for those who do God’s will (Matthew 7:21), even though we mess up (Romans 5-6).

          The benefits of loving God and loving others far surpass that of simply making God and others happy. Jesus says, “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them” (John 14:21).

          This passage is a comfort and a challenge: a comfort in knowing we have a relationship with the One who will represent us to God on Judgement Day, and a challenge because it reminds us to teach and model God’s commands to those who do not have the truth. Understanding and obeying truth results in a special love both for God, and from God. Have a great day!

Not all advice is good

by Barrett Vanlandingham

January 30, 2018

          So many people are wandering around in this world looking for answers. Unfortunately, there are many unqualified people out there who are more than willing to give opinions to life’s most difficult questions.

          If we are not grounded in God’s word, listening to the wrong person can have disastrous consequences. Following the wrong advice can result in a life without the joy we were seeking, and even result in missing out on heaven! There are few things that are as disappointing as going down one of life’s roads, thinking you know where it leads, but finding that the true happiness you were seeking was on a completely different path.

           King David’s son, Solomon, was the wisest man who ever lived. He experienced many excesses in life, both good and bad. So he would definitely be qualified to make this statement: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Proverbs 14:12).  What a sad state of affairs! It pays to find out if your source for solutions is really qualified, and whether the wisdom coming from a possibly well-meaning friend measures up to the wisdom of Solomon and the other inspired writers of the truths found in God’s word.

          The apostle Paul established a lot of new churches in the first century. He was constantly communicating with these younger brothers and sisters in Christ about being careful to not stray off track. He said this to Christians in Philippi: “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed--not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence--continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12).

          Paul was not saying they needed to be afraid or scared of God as a means of obeying Him, but rather to show a deep and sincere respect for God’s word when it came to deciding how they would live their lives. Paul was rooted in the truths of God’s word, and so he wanted these new Christians to also stay strong in the faith.

          Worldly wisdom rarely sees eye to eye with God. Be careful who you listen to. Have a great week!

Keeping in hot water is not always bad

by Barrett Vanlandingham

January 23, 2018

          Let me save you some grief. If you have had the same hot water tank for more than the recommended eight years, you are just asking for it.  I had mine for about 13 years, and ignored some warning signs along the way. Mistake.

          So, when Lisa got up at 6:00a.m. last Thursday to get ready for work (she’s a teacher), she noticed a small pond in our kitchen floor, and an ice-skating rink in our driveway. She came back to the bedroom and tapped on my arm to wake me up. I figured the tapping would not be followed by good news. I was right. I walked into the garage and opened the closet for the hot water heater. The tank was spewing everywhere.  I was just thankful this was not in the middle of the house. By the way, if you don’t have a tray under your tank to drain off water in such a case as this, that would have also been helpful.  I have one now.

          It is easy to forget how quickly time passes by regarding household maintenance. The same is true for spiritual maintenance and the accompanying warning signs. As Christians who want to know and understand more of God’s will, it is really up to us to commit to staying in God’s word. Over time, a hot water tank fills up with sediment that reduces its capacity and its ability to heat. Spiritually speaking, a Christian’s mind can fill up with distractions and useless information that hinder our ability to do God’s will effectively (Hebrews 12:1-2). The good news is that it doesn’t cost $1690 to clear your mind and re-fill it with things that are helpful to the Christian walk.

          Most of us already own multiple copies of the Bible. The trick to transforming your life is not just owning a Bible, or even reading your Bible, but rather taking the time to understand your Bible, and doing what it says. Praying before and after your Bible study time will help. And finally, choose to be a part of friend groups and activities that reinforce your desire to walk with God. Have a great week!

Be an encourager

by Barrett Vanlandingham

January 16, 2018

          If the Lord is willing, in 2018 I will write my 600^th Fort Faith column since 2007. I want to thank each of you for reading my column. Your kind responses of encouragement and insights are so nice to receive.

          “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17).

          Encouraging words are something I just can’t get enough of. I am sure you feel the same. So I would like each of us to use 2018 as a year to encourage and be encouraged (1 Thessalonians 5:11). This way of thinking is extremely important to our faith walk. The fact is, there are just a lot of people and circumstances that can throw shade on our best efforts to stay positive about life. That is why it is more important than ever to make deliberate attempts from sun up til sun down to live a life of encouragement, one that brings joy to those in our presence, and joy in our own lives.

          After Saul the Pharisee and persecutor of Christians became known as Paul the apostle, people were understandably skeptical of his sincerity right off the bat as he began to proclaim in Damascus that Jesus was “the Son of God” (Acts 9:20). This put Paul in a bit of a pickle because not only did other believers think he was still up to his old tricks of persecuting Christians, Jewish leaders were beginning to see him as a traitor. So they plotted to kill him (Acts 9:23). He escaped to Jerusalem with the help of some other disciples. But he wasn’t received any better there until Barnabas entered the picture. His real name was Joseph (Acts 4:36), but the apostles nicknamed him Barnabas, which means ‘son of encouragement.’

          Barnabas was worth his weight in gold to Paul’s mission to spread Christianity, living up to his nickname by introducing Paul to the other apostles. Barnabas told them the story of how Paul saw and spoke to the Lord on the way to Damascus, and that afterwards he “preached boldly in the name of the Lord” (Acts 9:28). Let’s strive to be an encouragement to someone this week!  

Let It Go

by Barrett Vanlandingham

January 9, 2018

          We all made mistakes in 2017. Thankfully, we are in a BRAND NEW YEAR, with a brand new calendar with no blemishes.  You now have the opportunity to LET THE PAST GO. Yes, the devil wants you to carry forward your sins (even those you’ve repented of) and your feelings of guilt. Satan wants you to continually ask yourself: “Why even try? What difference does it make?”

          It makes a BIG difference!  After all, Jesus gave His best effort for us.  We should do the same for Him.  In Luke 6:46, Jesus asked his listeners an important question: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?”         Sometimes it is really hard to move forward when we allow our past mistakes to weigh us down. One of my jobs as a teenager was to clean cow manure out of the dairy barn on the farm where I grew up. But when my job was over each day, I didn’t take a to-go box or a sack full of manure with me. I’m sure you understand why.

          The devil not only wants us to continue finding that dark area of our life, and walk in it, he also wants us to keep beating ourselves over the head for our past mistakes. Do NOT listen to Satan.  Listen to God.

          James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves then to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”  Keep in mind the importance of not only resisting the devil, but also the importance of submitting to God.  It takes both. Cutting something bad out of your life doesn’t work unless you replace it with something better.

          Paul had plenty of baggage in his past before he became a Christian. He told the early church:  “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13b-14).

          Thank you Father God for do-overs, for the ability to apologize to You and those we’ve wronged, and then to move on.  God, we praise You this day and always in Jesus’ name.   Have a great week!

Hold on to things that matter in 2018

by Barrett Vanlandingham

January 2, 2018

          I remember in 1974 when I was in third grade, figuring up just how old I would be in the year 2000. I did and re-did the math to make sure.  35-years old!  I would be 35-years old in the year 2000.  And so, here we are in 2018, and here I am almost 53 trying to figure out how all of this time flew by so quickly.  I am sure you know exactly what I am talking about.

          When I look at today’s calendar, it seems really strange to me that I am living in what I used to think was the far distant future! On top of that, the world today looks a lot different than what I thought it would when I was nine.  So many things have changed based on inventions and new technology.

          There are some things that have thankfully remained the same for longer than any of us can remember, and their effects have not lessened one bit.

          1. The words “I love you” are still among the sweetest to hear.  2. Hugs from a loved one give us a feeling like none other.  3. A hand-written letter captivates our attention in a way that text and email can’t even come close.  4. A face to face conversation, even though social media video chat is handy.  5. Homemade meals and desserts from scratch.

          An old song written by Jennie Wilson in 1904 reminds me of one more thing that has thankfully remained the same: “Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand.”

          “Verse 1: Time is filled with swift transition, naught of earth unmoved can stand. Build your hopes on things eternal, hold to God’s unchanging hand. Verse 2: Trust in him who will not leave you, whatsoever years may bring. If by earthly friends forsaken, still more closely to him cling. Verse 3: When your journey is completed, if to God you have been true, fair and bright the home in glory, your enraptured soul will view.  Chorus: Hold to God’s unchanging hand.  Hold to God’s unchanging hand. Build your hopes on things eternal. Hold to God’s unchanging hand.”

          In 2018, remember Psalm 136:26.  “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” Have a great week!

Let’s think about Jesus Christ all year long

by Barrett Vanlandingham

December 26, 2017

          Starting today, we have 364 days to celebrate the coming of our Savior before next Christmas hits. That may not be what most of the world wants to hear just as we are all recovering from the hustle and bustle of the 2017 Christmas season, but it is worth noting that we don’t have to wait another year before we can celebrate Jesus again.

          It is good to remember that even though the name of Jesus is so special to us, it was the title "Christ" that made His appearing so special to their day and to ours today, all year round.

          The Greek word Cristos means "the anointed one" or "the chosen one". The Hebrew version of those words we know as "Messiah". Jesus was God's anointed One, "the Christ," who fulfilled the Old Covenant prophecies. He was also the chosen One who came to save us from the sin of a broken world.

          The Gospel writer Luke records a time near the beginning of Jesus' ministry when He went into the synagogue, and opened the scroll to what we know as Isaiah 61, which was written 700 years before Jesus came along:

          "And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord." Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing" (Luke 4:17-21).

          Yes, the story of the coming of a baby makes us all feel cozy. But it is what Jesus did when He grew up that continues to make all the difference. He showed us how to live with courage, confidence, and humility. He showed us how to love selflessly and even sacrificially.

          God bless you, and have a great week!

Let your Christmas lights shine

by Barrett Vanlandingham

December 19, 2017

          What a nice surprise!  Two new homeowners on my street put up Christmas lights where there were none in previous years! I was actually contemplating not putting any up this year, or maybe the bare minimum. But when I saw evidence of my new neighbors’ Christmas spirit, I couldn’t resist putting up a few more decorations on my otherwise dark privacy fence: a lighted wreath, a lighted snowflake, and a projector that casts patterns of red and green.

          That’s actually the way life works, isn’t it? We don’t always know just by looking at people and even talking to them that they are down in the dumps. Most of us hide our true feelings pretty well, but there are usually signs somewhere if we take the time to notice. For me, it was my ho-hum attitude about decorating. There’s no way my new neighbors could have known what an impact their Christmas spirit would have on me. So encouraging!  Next thing I knew, I was at Keith Hardware and Big Lots looking for some new decorations to add to my small arsenal of Christmas spirit.

          The prophet Isaiah has some very encouraging reminders to help us in our time of discouragement:

          “28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. 29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:28-31).

          The key to this passage is the very thing I had forgotten to do: “hope in the Lord.”  I had become too absorbed in earthly concerns, and was forgetting to count the blessings in my life that really matter.

          We never know when something we say or do will make a huge difference in someone else’s outlook on life. God reminded me of that this week through my neighbors.  Merry Christmas and have a great week!

Christians must not cross lines in either direction

by Barrett Vanlandingham

December 12, 2017

          I was driving down Willey Street in Fort Gibson recently when I noticed a small SUV about 200 yards away in the oncoming lane. This wouldn’t normally be a big deal, but she kept drifting closer to the line, and at time over the line. As we passed each other, I noticed her looking down at her phone. But since this article is not about safe driving practices, I will make the connection to something even more important: crossing spiritual lines.

          Please understand I am not saying that we must drive on the shoulder, spiritually speaking, to keep from crossing over the line. That creates other problems, and that is what the Pharisees were often guilty of doing. They wouldn’t even eat an egg that had been laid on the Sabbath since the hen would have had to do work to get it here. That is a great example of crossing the line from being obedient to losing all common sense.

          You may have a great grandparent who at one time felt it was sinful to play with a deck of cards (“spot cards”) because it resembled gambling. You may have grown up being taught that all dancing is sinful. I have a friend who told me that when he was in grade school, his parents sent a note to school with him so teachers would not let him do the “bunny hop”. No judgment here (we’re all a work in progress).

          We must make informed decisions in our faith walk. The New Testament gives us instructions, and it does not need clarification. Remember, that is how the Pharisees wound up with such a long list of do’s and don’ts. But it is important to take other people’s feelings and highest good into consideration when we make choices. Paul speaks to this in Romans 14-15.       

          The wisest man who ever lived, Solomon, said, “Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths of your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil” (Proverbs 4:25-27).

          This is good advice for driving and for life.  Have a great week!

Spread God’s message through faith and deeds

by Barrett Vanlandingham

December 5, 2017

          It’s one thing to know about something that needs to be done. It’s another thing to actually do something about it.

          Lately, I have been using social media terms to express spiritual meanings in my “Fort Faith” column. My previous articles have challenged us to basically get off of our spiritual high center and act upon those things that need our attention as Christians. In other words, don’t just “rant” about issues like people do on social media, hit “send” already, and make a real difference. Knowledge is no good if you don’t apply it (James 1:22). It takes faith and deeds, not just one or the other (James 2:14, 24, 26).

          Jesus has already given us our marching orders in the Great Commission to go into all the world, teaching, baptizing, and making disciples (ref: Matthew 28:18-20).

But before we can be effective in making a difference in our world, we must be prepared. This means taking God’s message seriously. “Receive it”, “like it”, “copy it”.

          Today I want to write a few words about God’s message, and what it means to “comment on it” and “send it”.  Most of us have been in a classroom situation when the teacher said, “Any comments?”  And what followed was silence because nobody knew enough about the topic to make a comment.

          1 Peter 3:15 says, “But in your hearts, revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

          Christian comedian Tim Hawkins does a bit where he impersonates a mother who watches her son stub his toe, and then exclaims after the fact, “Be careful!”

          Christians are called to “comment” or spread God’s word before a spiritual crisis arises, not afterwards when someone is already reaping the consequences for their actions.  The most effective “commenting” also involves “sending” God’s message by our example and direct involvement with those people who are closest to us, and anyone else we hope to teach. Mission trips are a great way to practice “commenting on” and “sending” God’s word. It doesn’t have to be overseas. Jesus said to start where you are.  Have a great week!

I like God’s message

by Barrett Vanlandingham

November 28, 2017

          We use the word “like” in a lot of ways. Someone who definitely does not want to go along with something might say, “Like, uh, NO!” (80’s valley girl inflection).  Others use the word to indicate their fondness of someone. And if you spend much time on social media, you know hitting the “like” button is a way to show approval or support for someone’s post on Facebook, or the “heart” button on Instagram or Twitter.

          In my articles lately about making a difference in our world, I have written about “receiving” God’s message, and not forgetting to “hit send”, as opposed to ranting about the horrors of society, but not be willing to be a part of the solution.

          Combining the spiritual and social media metaphors, I would say that if we “like” God’s word, we should “copy” it, or bring our lives in line with it. Moses told the children of Israel to copy God’s commands onto their hearts.

          “Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates” (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).

          “Liking” and “copying” God’s word onto the hearts of first century Christians such as Paul, Peter, and others came in handy for the Lord’s kingdom. They won over many souls because they were prepared to teach anyone who would listen. They knew that teaching others was much more than an event, it was a lifestyle of “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23) they were privileged to “like” and “copy” every day.

          Paul spoke those words to new Christians in Galatia, some of whom had already deserted the truths of God’s word to follow a completely different gospel (1:6-7). As their big brother in Christ, Paul reminded them of the importance of writing God’s word on their hearts.        “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25).  Still great advice for us to “like” and “copy” today.  Have a great week!

Being thankful is a blessing of its own

by Barrett Vanlandingham

November 21, 2017

         

            In his closing remarks in a letter to Christians in Thessalonica, the apostle Paul said, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

          All the way through the Old and New Testaments, we find the writers encouraging us to be thankful. Did you ever wonder why? After all, a pessimist living back then might be inclined to think there’s not much for which to be thankful. The Jews had been looking for a Savior for thousands of years, and then those who became New Testament Christians were often persecuted in the cruelest of ways for their beliefs. So, it occurred to me to ask the question, why was being thankful such an important thing to write about?

          In the above verse, Paul’s answer is that it is God’s will for believers to be thankful “in Christ Jesus.”

          The phrase “in Christ Jesus” changes everything! You see, without Christ in the picture, Paul, with almost 100-percent certainty, would not be encouraging people to be thankful in all circumstances. That would be absurd. Paul’s emphasis is on living our lives with a thankful attitude when things go right, and when things go wrong. It is not likely that Paul intended to push people to be thankful for each specific bad thing in a person’s life, but rather, “in every circumstance” to be thankful for your life in Christ Jesus. This passage makes clear that God also wants Christians to “rejoice always” and “pray continually”.  

          Being thankful for our trials may not be something most people would feel good about. But there are benefits to trials. James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

          Thankfulness in Jesus is part of a new life (Romans 6:3-4) found only in Him. But God also desires for us to express this attitude openly within body of Christ (His church), and with other people who we may be able to win for the kingdom. Have a great week!