Above the Sun: Commitment requires follow through

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 30, 2019 (original version: June 2008)

            People who stay committed to anything are rare jewels these days.

            I was talking with my dad awhile back. And anyone who knows my dad knows that if he has a job to do, it will get done on time, one way or another. So, I asked him why is it that some people just seem to always be where they’re supposed to be, not because they were expected to be, and not because they were asked to be, but because it was just the right thing to do? What separates those people from others? He said, “It is because those people have already made the decision to be a part of something or to live a certain lifestyle. They made a commitment to certain things long before they were put on the calendar, and long before they were faced with ‘Should I, or shouldn't I?’”

            Commitment to God is kind of like riding an elevator ... you're either ON or OFF. Revelation 3:15-16 talks about people who are neither hot nor cold in their commitment to God. He says that because they are lukewarm, he will spit them out of His mouth.

            Matthew 22:34-38 tells us the greatest command is to “…Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” The Gospel of Mark adds “and with all your strength” to that list. This means that we are to love God with everything we have, and everything we are.

If you believe that God exists, and that Jesus is his son, and that there is a heaven and a hell, it is extremely important to follow through with commitment.  After all, what's the point in calling yourself a Christian if you're only going to go halfway, because halfway won't get you there.

John 14:15 tells us God knows whether we love him by our obedience to his commands.

            What if we don't commit to God? Matthew 10:32-33 says, “Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.”

            Commitment demands we choose God over anyone or anything. We can have huge bank accounts, popularity, possessions, desire for athletic and academic scholarships, but when those things become our gods, and we choose them over God the Father, that's sin.

It’s a test Abraham scored well on. God asked him to sacrifice Isaac as a burnt offering. Abraham loved his son Isaac and knew that Isaac was a part of the plan to make a great nation like God had promised in Genesis 12:2. So, Abraham was willing to put aside his own feelings on the matter, and submit and trust God TOTALLY. In fact, Abraham had so much faith that when he was preparing to take his son there to sacrifice him, Genesis 22:5 says “He said to his servants, 'Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.’”          Abraham knew that total commitment was a two-way trail, and that God would not go back on his original promise, and that one way or another, God would prevent Isaac's death.

How many times do we not trust God to give us what we need, and what our children need, just so we can satisfy our worldly cravings for worldly success. We ask ourselves, “How is my family or my children ever going to find true joy and happiness?” The answer is faith-based commitment to God. And when we are committed to God, we will be committed to our families. More on that topic next week.  Have a great day!

Above the Sun: Expletives go crossways with God’s will for you

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 23, 2019 (original version: June 2008)

More than once I've had young people ask me if it was really a sin to curse. They were astonished when I gave them the answer, “Yes!”

The Apostle Paul said, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things (Philippians 4:8).”

When it comes to cursing and other sins of the mouth, how can you or anyone else in your presence possibly “think about such things” (Godly things) if your mouth is spewing out curse words?

James 3:3-12 is one of the most famous passages in the Bible for its instruction on how we use our mouth. The writer says, “:3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder…” James goes on to compare the tongue to a spark that can set a whole forest on fire. He says, “:10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.”

In Romans 3:9-10 Paul quotes from the Old Testament about sin. Then in verse 14 he says, “Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.”

When I was a kid and someone would curse, oftentimes it would be pointed out that people who curse just simply do not have a good enough vocabulary to think of other words to say. That may be true to an extent. But I think a better explanation as to why people curse is because their minds have been filled to overflowing with worldly influences. This happens when we get lax in our spiritual battle. Proverbs 4:23-24 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.”

The Gospel of Matthew 12:34 & 36-37 says, “…For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks… But I tell you that men will have to give an account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Sins of the mouth not only include cursing. Romans 1:28-32 includes gossip and slander in a list of sins that will land someone in hell. Paul even goes on to say that even those who approve of this practice are also in the same danger of eternal condemnation.

The attitudes behind cursing are just as harmful spiritually. One thing is for sure. If we spend more time in study of God's word, more time acting on our belief, more time prayerfully turning away from the world's influence, more time acknowledging that Jesus is God's Son and that He is our only hope, and more time thinking about the blessings that come from being clothed in Christ through baptism, we would definitely not have near as much time or desire to allow negative thoughts and words to infect or influence our destiny. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: There is a silver lining for our flood crisis

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 16, 2019

           

My summer mission trip to Honduras is always a joy. Our Christian brothers and sisters there in Tegucigalpa are always so welcoming. This time, I felt a little guilty for planning a mission trip out of country when there is so much work to do here because of the flood damage. But then it occurred to me I have not met even one flood victim here who would want to trade places with any of our friends in Honduras who live in 16 by 16 shacks with dirt floors and outside bathrooms and kitchens.

            It is amazing to me how people here are dealing with so much loss of property with such a positive and hopeful attitude. None of us likes to hear the words, “It could always be worse.” But the fact is, it could, and deep down, even those affected directly by the flood know it. Yes, it’s a pain to be inconvenienced. I complain about the floaties I have in my left eye that obstruct my vision a little, and the slight limp I have because of an old back injury. Reality is that I have friends who are blind in one or both eyes, and I have friends who are confined to wheelchairs. They would love to trade places with someone who only has floaties in one eye and who can still walk. I remember when my 18-month-old daughter was gravely ill with staff pneumonia. She was in ICU and had surgery on her lung to make her well. I remember the sadness I felt as a parent until I looked at another baby nearby who was only a month old and already had three heart surgeries, and more to come.

            During mission trips I have taken into Mexico and Honduras, I often caught myself wondering why some of the people there didn’t make their huts look more presentable. But then it occurred to me they would love to if they only had a hammer, nails, a saw, lumber, and some decent roofing materials. But those things cost money, and when minimum wage is about $200 a month, yes month, people can’t afford a lot of extra’s.

Here in our area, there is abundant help for flood victims to be able to clean up, re-build, and start life over in nice new 1000 to 3000 square foot homes with new furniture and appliances. Even those who are worse off, still have comfortable places to stay with food until they can get back on their feet.

There are who knows how many relief workers and groups from out of town coming here ready to jump in and bless our community with fresh energy, optimism, hard work, and compassion. Some of those include: Church of Christ Disaster Response Team, Churches of Christ Relief Efforts, Red Cross, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, Christian Church, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and Church of God in Christ. Many individuals and area churches are also donating money to the community resource center that is set-up in the old gym at Fort Gibson High School.

We talk about our country as the land of opportunity. And it’s in times like these we find out why. It’s all about neighbor helping neighbor, wherever they’re from, most of whom will never even meet face to face. As the days and weeks go by, we will all have opportunities to brighten someone’s day. Your act of kindness, big or small, may never be a news headline. But that has no bearing on its value.  God bless and have a great week!

Above the Sun: The beauty of Jesus is rises above the flood

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 9, 2019

            In light of the flooding we have experienced in many of our communities, I couldn’t help but think about how people might have felt in the days of Noah in relation to today.

There is a good chance nobody had ever seen rain before the worldwide flood. Imagine their shock!  In addition, when the flood did happen, it wasn’t only rain that caused it. Genesis 7:11 says “On that day all the springs of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened. And rain fell on the earth forty days and forty nights” (Genesis 7). Yes, rain fell, but just like the swollen banks of the Arkansas River, springs far beneath the surface of the oceans welled up with such force that everything on earth was covered. Even the highest mountains were under at least 23 feet of water!

            The Bible neither proves nor disproves that rain had not fallen up until the time of the flood. Genesis 2:5-6 only says that there were no shrubs when the earth was created because God had not yet sent rain. This was because there was no one to work the ground since man had not yet been created. At some point, there were streams or mists to “water the whole surface of the ground.”  But even after man was created, Genesis 2:10 says it was a river that watered the Garden of Eden. The first recorded rainfall was at the time of the flood.

            Here in Fort Gibson and surrounding towns, we saw some rain, but not nearly the kind of rain it would take to cause the flooding we’ve experienced. To me, the weirdest thing was that even with clear sunny skies around here, rainfall elsewhere caused floodwaters to inundate our area to levels no one ever imagined.

            One of the major differences between the days of Noah versus today is that Noah warned people about the flood for 100 years while he was building the ark. No one listened to his message of righteousness. Only Noah and his family made it out alive, floating their way to safety. The rest of the population perished because their hearts continued to be inclined towards “evil all of the time.”  

Here in our area, the “hundred-year flood” came with much less warning than in the days of Noah. But in the midst of its destruction of homes, property, crops, and business, our community has pulled together like possibly never before. Messages of righteousness are not only being preached, but are being practiced in countless ways. Neighbors, strangers, businesses, paid rescuers, and countless volunteers are all pitching in to help one another during our time of crisis. The heart of Christ is being seen in every selfless act of service and every word of encouragement.

            There are a lot of things we may never understand about the flood and consequences we are dealing with today. But it is definitely one for the record books, both in the amount of property loss, and in the amount of servant-heartedness being shown.  God bless!

Above the Sun: Finding the right church is worth some serious effort

by Barrett Vanlandingham

June 2, 2019 (original version, May 27, 2008)

Since Lisa and I are empty nesters, and since her 2007 minivan has over a hundred thousand miles on it, we’ve been thinking about a getting a replacement vehicle of the non-minivan variety. It’s a shopping task that seems pretty easy at first, that is, until you start looking at all the possibilities. Even after weeding out the ones that have bad looking tail lights, there is still a mind-boggling assortment of makes and models to sift through.

The same is true in religion. Google lists 15 different churches in the Fort Gibson area, not counting a half dozen more outside of the area where people attend. But how can this be? I thought the Lord died for his church (Ephesians 5:25), not churches. The church is referred to as the Lord’s body, not bodies. One body with many members (Romans 12:5).

Jesus said in Matthew 16:13-18 that based upon the rock (or fact) that He is the Son of God, He would build His church.

There is a difference between the term church which is the body of Christ as a whole worldwide, versus the term congregation which is a group of church members (or church family) that meets at a specific location. When a group or congregation of the Lord’s church decides it wants to practice their faith or conduct worship in a way that is not consistent with the Bible, that group becomes a denomination of the Lord’s church. They are no longer following God’s word, but their own agenda. Each congregation must make sure it is doing Bible things Bible ways so as to not branch away from God’s will and form man-made denominations.

Paul said, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit-just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4:3-6).

Neither Jesus nor Paul ever said anything positive about there being many different kinds of churches that teach different messages from the true Gospel. In Galatians 1:6-9 Paul told the Christians there “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel-which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned.”

            Jesus earned the right of our respect and obedience when He came to this earth to suffer, die, and be raised from the dead so that we could have hope of eternal life in heaven.

            Every denomination of the one true church most likely believes that what they are doing in the name of Jesus is right. One thing we can all agree on is this: We owe it to ourselves, our families, our friends, our acquaintances, and most of all to Jesus to go back to the Bible. We must make sure that our beliefs and practices are in line with Jesus Christ and the inspired word He has preserved for us to follow. Then, if we must worship in separate buildings because of tradition, personalities, or convenience, then so be it.

            May God bless us all as we continue to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12).  Have a great week!

Above the Sun: The greatest battle was won at the cross

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 26, 2019

            As an American, I am extremely grateful for all those dedicated men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Their bravery and sacrifice make it possible for the rest of us to enjoy the freedoms we have in this country. Freedom of religion is at the top of the list of things we should be thankful for, since the result of it is the only thing that extends beyond this life. It is good and appropriate that we have a special holiday called Memorial Day set aside to honor these exceptionally committed Americans who make our freedoms possible.

            In the book of Daniel 6, we’re told about a time in Babylon when people were only free to pray to king Darius. It was a trap set for Daniel by those who were jealous of his position in the kingdom. They tricked king Darius into signing a law stating that if anyone prayed to any other god or person in the next 30 days, they would be thrown into a den of lions. Daniel had faith in His God, so he continued praying three times a day with his window open as had always done before. Sure enough, he was thrown into the den, and sure enough, God saved him.

Daniel knew God had a plan, not just for that day, but for every day in the future. Jesus was that plan. The prophet wrote about kingdoms that would rise and fall such as the Babylonian Empire, the Medes and Persians, the Greeks, and the Romans. But he also wrote about a very different kingdom that God would create, like a rock cut out of a mountain that would become huge, fill the whole earth, and never be destroyed. The kingdom of Christ. That includes the church He died for, and everything Jesus is about.

The reason Christ’s kingdom would last forever is because He defeated sin and death at the cross. As the perfect sacrifice for sin, He gave us a path to heaven. As Christians, the Bible instructs us to remember the death of Jesus each time we partake of the unleavened bread and fruit of the vine (1 Corinthians 11:26). The early church met and “broke bread” on the first day of each week (Acts 20:7). That is also the time they set aside money to help with the mission of the church.

So, as we remember those who have died while in service to our country, let’s also remember that Jesus Christ is at the center of the freedoms we all hold dear. Without Him, these hard fought freedoms would have no value in the long run.

Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Church family watches out for each other

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 19, 2019

            When I think of a mighty oak tree, I think of strength, maturity, and longevity, practically indestructible. But just a few days ago when I turned into my parents’ driveway, I could hardly believe my eyes. The recent storms had saturated the ground near a large oak tree. The high winds did the rest, toppling what otherwise appeared to be a very healthy tree. It was now lying flat across their fence, roots pulled completely out of the ground, leaving a huge hole about the size of a ’92 Lincoln filled with stormwater.

            I don’t know about you, but I am sometimes guilty of assuming that just because a Christian brother or sister appears to be strong and mature, that they are not vulnerable to Satan’s attacks like anyone else. If there is one lesson in spiritual warfare that surprises me every single time, it’s that the devil hardly ever strikes where you expect.

            “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12).

As Christians, some of our most precious resources that can help us in the fight against darkness are those people who have lived long enough to gain valuable wisdom. A mature Christian is often better equipped to handle the storms of life than someone who is younger and immature in their faith. Their advice can be priceless. But even they can topple emotionally and spiritually if not given proper amounts of encouragement from the rest of the church family. This is true for anyone. You do not always know from the outside if someone is struggling.

Mature Christians are sort of like well-made automobiles. They can help carry us safely where we need to go, but we must do our part in making sure their tanks have plenty of fuel to get us there. Sometimes, a mature Christian might need to take a little time off from teaching, so they can re-charge and avoid burn out.

            The Bible has a lot to say about how to treat those Christians whose shoulders we stand on, and what we stand to gain when we listen to those who have invested many years in aligning their lives with God’s will.

            “Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity” (1 Timothy 5:1-2).

            “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future” (Proverbs 19:20).

            “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Hebrews 13:17).

            The harsh winds and heavy rains are sure to come. We would all do well to strive to protect the mighty oaks in our lives. They are a treasure. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Graduating seniors need our prayers

by Barrett Vanlandingham

May 12, 2019

            This is an exciting time of year for high school graduates, but for parents of those graduates, emotions are all over the map.

            It would be strange to wish for our children to just stay in high school and live under our roofs the rest of their lives. But we are also scared to turn them loose into the real world where we cannot protect them. The fact is, we were never fully in control of our kids any more than our parents were fully in control of us. Yes, there will be consequences ahead for bad decisions. But as much as we would like for our kids to do everything right, it is those momentary lapses in judgment that help young people gain maturity and perspective. As parents, we can only hope and pray our children do not go to the lengths Solomon did in order to gain wisdom. Although the messes he got into because of his life choices certainly made him wise, I would not advise that route.

            I admit it, I am a worrier when it comes to the well-being of my kids. I devise all kinds of plans in my head to try and make sure they stay out of danger (yeah, right). But the more I think about it, the more I realize I can only do so much. They have to learn the rest on their own. We all warn our children about everything from taxes and credit issues to distracted driving and staying alert in dangerous life situations. Good advice helps, but unless our kids choose to live in a bubble, stuff happens, sometimes for no apparent reason, and sometimes from bad decisions by them or someone else. We all have free will, and sometimes other people’s free will impacts our well-being.

When I left the house for the first time, my parents chose to let me make my own choices (and mistakes) about pretty much everything. They were really good listeners when I blabbered on about my plans for success in the working world. They supported me in whatever project, hobby, or career I was passionate about. And they showed compassion when things didn’t go so well. The only time I remember them having strong opinions is if they thought my decision-making seriously threatened my spiritual destiny. That would be when my phone would ring. And although I may have felt those phone calls cramped my style a little, deep down I knew they only wanted what was best for me. I was happy about that.

As parents of adult kids, Lisa and I still pray for them every single day. The fact that I pray is in itself a good daily reminder that I am not in control of anything. But it also brings me peace in knowing I have presented my requests to our Creator and Sustainer to do with has He sees fit.

Have a great day!

Above the Sun: Teaching Bible truths is a worthy calling wherever you are

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 28, 2019 (original version, April 26, 2007)

            I appreciate so much the Christian men and women who teach and serve as staff members in our public schools. What a wonderful opportunity!  They are able to be a positive influence for Jesus for hundreds of students and parents every day.  They do this by their Christlike attitude without even opening a Bible. 

I also appreciate Bible class teachers those who dedicate their lives to accurately and lovingly teaching Bible truths to children every week, those who are still teaching, and those who taught us when we were kids.

What a privilege it is to even have the same title as those teachers I remember from my childhood. Each of us owes a debt of gratitude to those who were the first to teach us about creation, and other real-life stories. Noah, Ruth, Jonah, Esther, Gideon, Moses, Elijah, and Abraham are just a few from the 39 books of the Old Testament.

And what would our lives be like if someone hadn’t taught us truths from the 27 New Testament books, stories about Jesus’ life as a young boy all the way to the beginning of His ministry. How inspiring it was to hear how Jesus chose twelve ordinary men to be His apostles.  How heartbreaking it was to hear for the first time about His agonizing journey to the cross, and how exciting it was to hear the story Christians everywhere celebrated just last week, that of Jesus overcoming death, returning to His Father to prepare us a place in heaven for eternity.

The will of God revealed in His word, delivered by teachers from the pages of the Bible and by their Christlike attitude is something to be thankful for. This is something that should inspire others to teach children, too. “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news” (Romans 10:15).

This song I wrote in April of 1996 begins with teachers looking into the eyes of children. It is called “A Teacher’s Song.”

Verse 1: You look into their eyes and see His wondrous creation.

They’re looking to you for what they need, but only He can give.

Verse 2: They call it the Great Commission, to “go into all the world.”

It starts here at home, teaching the little ones, to grow up strong.

Verse 3: A teacher's job is never done. There's always more to do.

You finish one task, then starts another one. It seems it's all on you.

Verse 4: Those same little children, you taught long ago, are grown up and teaching too.

Though years have flown by, it feels good inside, to know God worked in you.

Verse 5: So, thank you teachers, for what you do, for showing us the way.

For teaching God’s word, week after week, in what you do and say.

(chorus) So Lord, please speak through me, and do what is Your will.

For those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled.

Above the Sun: Easter Sunday is special for many reasons

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 21, 2019

            The other day, Lisa and I were walking through the Easter section of Wal-Mart when one memory after another began hopping, cheeping, and wafting into my mind.

            For about two minutes, my thoughts were taken back to when I was a young boy on the farm in the 70’s, everything from spring bunnies playing in the clover, to baby chicks in a box, from the smell of brightly colored vinegar water in bowls on the kitchen counter, to decorating the eggs, taking turns hiding and hunting them. Tina, our toy Eskimo Spitz city dog turned farm dog, also enjoyed hunting eggs. She made no attempt at shutting her mouth when she loudly crunched and consumed them, shell and all, so it was always obvious why a few were missing.

            Memory lane can surely take us to some special places. For Christians everywhere, Easter weekend not only provides great opportunities for family time and for remembering times gone by, it also takes our minds back to a special place in history about 2000 years ago. It was there, just outside of Jerusalem where our spiritual brother and Savior, Jesus Christ, took the sins of humanity on His shoulders, and allowed himself to be crucified for the sins of the world.

            When someone dear to us dies, we reminisce about the good things they did in this life. Jesus takes it to a level that is more than we can comprehend. He was the perfect sacrifice, otherwise He could not have risen from the grave on the third day. Anything or anyone less than a perfect sacrifice is not capable of freeing us from our sins. The blood of Jesus on the cross did exactly that (Revelation 1:5).

            People today argue about the exact location of Jesus’ crucifixion and burial. But what really matters is that it did happen. Jesus’ life, miracles, death, and resurrection are supported by statements from early writers, government officials, and early church leaders. Jesus was hated by some and loved by others. But He was spoken of and documented by all, in early writings both inside and outside of the Bible.

            The stories of Jesus are facts that people have been willing to die for at the hands of Christian persecutors dating back to the first century. On one hand, the things Jesus went through are a tragic piece of history to keep passing down from one generation to the next. On the other hand, it is necessary. The prophets wrote about Jesus long before He made His earthly appearance. His mission is what we imitate and celebrate as Christians. It is what gives life meaning. It is what gives us hope. It is the message Jesus wants us to share for as long as we are here. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Living for Christ is a lifestyle

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 14, 2019 (original version, June, 2005)

            We Christians can sure put a lot of pressure on ourselves to live for Christ. In doing so, I think sometimes we forget the Christian journey is not a series of events and activities that we show up for to sooth our conscience and get right with God. The Christian journey is a lifestyle that permeates every part of our life.

            "Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit" (Galatians 5:25). The letters Paul wrote to places like Galatia were often to answer questions of new Christians. Perhaps a new believer wondered how to stay in line with God’s expectations. That would have given Paul the chance to tell them about the fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. You see, pleasing God is not really about running out and trying to do something impressive for Him. It’s about our minute by minute, day to day attitude, and the way we let God’s love show through us in the way we interact with all people (Galatians 6:10, Matthew 28:19-20).

            I feel very blessed to be a part of a group of Jesus-loving, God-respecting people who live to serve the Almighty. This doesn’t mean we always get it right. It simply means we know which direction we are headed and we know we will get there because the Spirit will lead us. One thing I like about being in the body of Christ (the church) is seeing how all the parts of the body work together to His glory.  Not everyone is gifted in the same way. That’s why the members of a body have to work together, men, women, and children all walking with God and encouraging one another (Hebrews 10:24-25).

            Being a child of God is described further in Galatians 5:24. "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires."

            When we commit fully to Christ, Satan will no longer have a hold on us because Jesus will not allow it. Jesus and Satan will NOT walk hand in hand along the same path. This is good news for us, because if we are walking hand in hand with Jesus, we are assured that Satan cannot pull us away (Romans 8:37-39). It is only when we choose to let go of Christ’s hand, and leave the path of righteousness that Satan can grab hold of us. Light and dark cannot live in the same heart (James 3:9-12). We have to give up one to serve the other, even if it is just for a moment.

            When we walk with God, things work for the good (Romans 8:28). On the other hand, choosing the dark side only leads to worry, heartache, sadness, insecurity, and many kinds of danger. Everything we think, do, and say brings us a step closer or a step further away from God and our eternal goal of heaven. It is very important for us to remember Christ’s words in Revelation 22:12. "Behold I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done."

            It may seem like just one person can’t make a difference in our world. But one person simply living for Christ is a whole different story. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Let Your Light Shine

by Barrett Vanlandingham

April 7, 2019 (original version, May 19, 2005)

          One of our goals as Christians is to be a breath of fresh air and sunshine to the people we come across each day.

          "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) This verse from the Sermon on the Mount is one of many in Matthew 5-7 that has given the world an incredible amount of hope, confidence, challenges, and empowerment.

          If you ever needed a good reason to have greater commitment in your faith journey, this three chapter passage (which only takes about ten minutes to read) raises the standard for Christians today. This was also true for those crowds of people who sat on the side of that mountain nearly two-thousand years ago to hear Jesus preach. His commands regarding murder, disputes, adultery, love for enemies (ch. 5), as well as how to carry out acts of righteousness for the needy, how to pray, how to fast (ch. 6), and His thoughts on judging others and worrying (ch. 7) are all covered.

          In the Beatitudes (5:1-12), Jesus challenges us to take on a spirit of humility and obedience, reminding us that the way we think, feel, and act really does impact where we spend eternity. Jesus reminds us that we can “Rejoice and be glad” (5:12) in spite of the insults people cast towards faithful followers. When we are being the “salt of the earth” and flavoring our surroundings, people will either taste that God is good, or they will reject the message of Christ and reject us, too. Christians must not grow weary in well doing (Galatians 6:9), but remember that our job is to plant seed, and let God give the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Isaiah 55:11 says God’s word will not return to Him empty.

          To me, the Sermon on the Mount is empowering, because Jesus takes this opportunity to tell His followers (us) that mediocrity is not acceptable. So, when He tells us to take our spirituality to a higher level (such as regarding anger and lust in the same severity of judgment as murder and adultery), Jesus actually expects us to obey. Obedience may seem like a tall order to fill, but God helps us successfully complete this mission in spite of our human weaknesses.

          Paul tells us in Romans 3:23 “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

But it still pays to stay on His lighted path (1 John 1:7), fellowshipping with God, trusting Him even in the midst of trials and temptations and even failures. It is here that God’s grace through the blood of Jesus continues to purify us from all sin.

          When we are immersed (baptized) we are clothed in Jesus and our sins are washed away (Galatians 3:27 and Acts 22:16). We are also buried with Jesus, and raised to live a new life in Christ (Romans 6:4). Luke tells us when we turn to God and are baptized we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). The Spirit guides, comforts, and helps us make good choices if we listen to Him. He always points us to the truths found in God’s word, helping us to be a light to those who are living in darkness, and an encouragement to fellow Christians. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: There are some things we can know about the afterlife

by Barrett Vanlandingham (original version, June 2, 2005)

March 24, 2019

          It is hard to imagine what an eternal Heaven and Hell would be like even if they were physical instead of spiritual places. The same goes for Paradise and Torment which the Bible describes as our only two options in the immediate afterlife while waiting for Judgment Day.

          The description of a heaven’s golden street or hell’s fire and brimstone only serves to let us know that those who are found to be faithful are destined to enjoy a reward better than we can possibly imagine. Those who die in their sins will suffer an eternity of unimaginable pain.

          Torment and ultimately Hell can be avoided by becoming a child of God through faith (belief) in Jesus as the Son of God and His power to save. Our faith is demonstrated by obeying God’s will for believers to be baptized (immersed) in water. This necessary act of faith clothes us in Christ (Galatians 3:26-27, Romans 6:1-11). From this point forward, Jesus’ blood cleanses us from all sin as we continue to walk in His light (1 John 1:7).

          Luke 16:19-31 tells us about a rich man and a beggar named Lazarus who laid at the rich man’s gate. Lazarus was covered with sores and longed to eat scraps that fell from the rich man’s table. Both died. The rich man went to Torment, while Lazarus was carried by angels to Paradise. They were in separate places with Lazarus unable to even dip the tip of his finger in water to cool the tongue of the rich man who was in agony in fire.

          There are several things we should know about where we go after death.

          1) Paradise and Torment are places we cannot leave until the final judgement. Even then, people who are sentenced to Torment in the afterlife will continue to be separated from God because their sins were never covered by the blood of Jesus. A dead person has no more chances to repent, to be forgiven, or to be baptized.

          2) The afterlife is a place where we will be able to recognize our loved ones who are there, and remember our loved ones who have yet to pass. While in Torment, the rich man was worried about his five living brothers. He wanted Abraham to send Lazarus to warn them of the terrible fate that would also befall them upon death if they behaved on earth as he did.

          3) In the afterlife, Lazarus was comfortable in Paradise, while the rich man was in agony in Torment. Jesus pointed out this irony we can learn from.

          Wouldn’t it be sad to notice in the afterlife that some of your friends and loved ones were in Torment? Now is the time to throw them a lifeline, because the window of opportunity will close with no warning. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Be Compelled by Christ’s Love

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 31, 2019 (original version, May 12, 2005)

          “For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).

          The phrase “compelled by love” is one that can be misunderstood. We often admire people who seem to be continually stirred into action by “their” great love for Christ or the vast amounts of spiritual discipline they possess. In reality, Paul says the motivating factor for our obedience is Christ’s love for us, not the other way around.

          Most people would be grateful if someone chose to die or even risked their life so others could live. This is demonstrated each year at Veteran’s Day assemblies, and at other events where those who have served in the military are given well-deserved standing ovations. We honor them because we understand just how important their mission was in order for us to live freely. This kind of honor and respect is often missing from our society in regards to how we show our thanks to Jesus for his sacrifice.

          I think the reason some choose to reject God’s commands is because the extent of Christ’s love for us is not understood. While the commercialization of cross symbols has at least kept the image in the forefront of Christian culture, its true meaning has diminished in the minds of the majority.

          Christ’s work here is worth our putting in the effort to understand its importance for us. The story of Jesus is found in the New Testament books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The study we put into God’s word not only increases our knowledge, the Bible says it is where our faith begins (Romans 10:17). It is this process that helps us understand the extent of Christ’s love and sacrifice for us. Just the thought of the cross should make us sick to our stomach, put a lump in our throat, and bring tears of sorrow and joy to our eyes.

          There are many more ways in which our Savior showed His love even before the cross. Luke 9:57-58 reminds us that Christ gave up the comforts of heaven. John 1 reminds us of His separation from His Father. John 17:1-5 tells us that Jesus sacrificed glory and took on human form. Philippians 2:1-11 tells us he made himself nothing. Revelation 5:1-14 tells of the universal worship directed at Jesus in heaven that includes angels and others creatures.

          It is difficult to imagine Jesus leaving all of that behind, especially since He knew from before the beginning of time the amount of emotional and physical pain He would endure in order to get the message across that HE LOVES US. There are a lot of reasons we could be compelled to have a loving attitude, but none better than Christ’s love for us.  Have a great week.

Above the Sun: The name of Jesus fills our heart

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 17, 2019 (original version, January 13, 2005)

          There are just some names, that when we hear them, we feel a certain way. That is why no one gives their sweet baby girl the name “Jezebel.” That is why no one names their baby boy “Lucifer.” Names are important, and they not only help identify us, but names are great conversation ice-breakers, and they can actually cause others to have an opinion before even getting to know us.

          Jesus is the most important name that comes to my mind. Any Christian will tell you the same. We have many reasons to wear His name. Just look what He has done for us: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

           That statement cuts deeply into the hearts of believers just like it did in the first century when Peter preached at a Jewish festival called Pentecost (Acts 2:37). The writer Luke says about 3000 believed in Jesus and were baptized that day. They began meeting together, learning more about Jesus, and taking care of anyone who had need. Luke says God then “added to their number day by day those who were being saved (Acts 2:47). Christ’s church had been established.

          At age nine, from the first time I understood the story of Christ being tortured and killed so that I could go to heaven someday, I knew my life would never be the same. Just the thought of Jesus’ blood cleansing my sins every second of every day (1 John 1:7) still gives me peace, joy, confidence, and fills my heart with thankfulness to live according to His will. I see people everyday whose lives have been changed for the better because of Him.

          The fact that Jesus left His heavenly home for us is incomprehensible. Think about it. He traded His home for a life as we know it. For Him, that meant: 1) putting on flesh that deteriorates, 2) being limited by time and space, 3) dealing with aches and pains, 4) answering questions of doubters, people He created, 5) being whipped and crucified by those He loved.  All of this, even though he knew he could have escaped His earthly pain at any time during His visit, to go back home to heaven. But He chose to stay here to fulfill His plan to save us.

          I cannot think of anyone about whom there has been more books, poems, stories, and songs written. Jesus Christ is everything to me. He’s my only Hope. He’s my Hero. He’s my Deliverer. He’s my Inspiration. He’s the Reason I get up in the morning. He’s the Reason I look forward to tomorrow, no matter what it brings.

The Name I love to hear is Jesus.

          He’s our King! Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Taking Time for God is worth every minute

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 10, 2019 (original version, November 30, 2006)

          What a blessing it is to be in Christ. Why? Because being in Christ allows us access to God, and time alone with God. A lot of people, including me, like the idea of listening for God’s will in our lives, but too often the busy-ness of life just seems to get in the way. Isaiah’s words in 40:31 are as relevant today as they were in 760 B.C.

          "Yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary."

          Are you struggling with sins of the mouth? Take time for God. Are you struggling in a relationship? Take time for God. Are you struggling with an addiction? Take time for God. Are you struggling in your faith? Take time for God. Are you struggling with trying to find yourself? Take time for God. Are you struggling with your self-esteem? Take time for God. Are you struggling with your priorities? Take time for God.

          The devil is the master deceiver. We would all do well to take his skill level seriously when it comes to the traps he sets for us. Even in the Garden of Eden, when Adam and Eve had a very close relationship with God, the serpent offered them a deal that seemed too good to pass up, to be like God, and to have knowledge like God. There was just enough nobility in the temptation that Adam and Eve felt justified in disobeying God.

          Now fast forward 6000 years. The devil has continued to sharpen his deception skills, and his target is you and me. But one advantage we have is that of being able to study the devil’s techniques written about in the Bible. We know much better than Adam and Eve the ways Satan has been able to deceive God’s followers for generations.

          One thing we know for sure is that when we take time FOR God, we are taking time AWAY from world and its effects on us. Isaiah’s words teach us that when we focus on getting our answers from God, our spiritual muscles become stronger. The MORE time we spend with God, the LESS time we will even want to spend catering to our own selfish ambition.

          Writing from prison, Paul assured the first century church that God would make a way to spread the good news of Jesus Christ no matter what circumstances in which we find ourselves.

          "Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6).

          Taking time for God is an investment that results in a more joyful life now, and for eternity. Have a great week!