The truth of God’s word is no illusion
by Barrett Vanlandingham
March 15, 2011
My son has been playing “magic” tricks on me all week. And even though Britton is only 12-years old, some of his illusions are truly amazing. Sometimes he uses them to tell Bible stories. So, I began to think to myself that if my own sweet, innocent son can wow me with sleight of hand, imagine what the devil can do with thousands of years to practice his deceptive craft.
Christians should always be wise to the devil’s cunning. There is nothing that makes Satan more happy than to pull the wool over the eyes of the unsuspecting. If he can’t lure the strong Christian off track, he will gladly settle for picking on a vulnerable loved one.
In 1 Peter 5:8 the writer says, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (NIV)
Strangely enough, as obvious as a roaring lion is, it always manages to find a victim as long as it’s in its element. The Bible refers to the devil as the prince of this world (NIV, John 12:31, 16:11). The earth is his element. The souls of mankind are at the top of his menu. The devil is intimidating, aware of our weaknesses, and relentless in taking advantage of opportunities to tempt us. God allows the devil to roam freely, just like a lion in the jungle. And while he may be as obvious as a roaring lion, his followers are often much more sneaky.
Jesus warns us about those who have chosen the path of darkness, those who have teamed up with the great deceiver. "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. (NIV, Matthew 7:15)
But to the Christian, Satan’s schemes are very recognizable by simply comparing the fruit he is offering through his followers, to the fruit of the Spirit. Jesus says, “By their fruit you will recognize them (NIV, Matthew 7:16).”
Paul says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control… (NASB, Galatians 5:22-23)”
As Christians, it could be overwhelming trying to learn all the tricks of the devil. I used to get stressed because I didn’t understand everything about every religious group out there. The good news is that we don’t have to. We really only have to know what God’s word says in order to quickly spot a fraud or a potential tool for Satan to use against us.
Spiritually speaking, new tricks or at least new twists on old tricks are invented everyday. But God’s word remains unchanged. May God bless you this week as you look to him and his will revealed through his word.
Thursday, March 03, 2011
Rebelling against God’s word doesn’t change the truth
by Barrett Vanlandingham
March 8, 2011
In a world where the majority of people believe that truth is relative, our incentive for sticking with God is just as powerful as ever. You see, just because someone doesn’t believe in God’s ability to save us from eternal damnation doesn’t mean it isn’t true. Whether you’re in Fort Gibson or Hollywood, truth is truth.
Christians have always been in the minority. Scripture tells us plainly that the road leading to life is narrow, while the road leading to destruction is broad (Matthew 7:13-14). Jesus goes on to say that while many people walk the wide road to hell, only a few people take the narrow path that leads to heaven.
In recent days, actor Charlie Sheen has begun to find out (again) what happens when you travel the worldly path that he thought would bring him happiness. His children have been taken away, he has lost his job, and everytime he sits down for an interview to defend himself he digs a deeper hole as he brags about his history of illegal drug abuse. Even the liberal media appears shocked and disturbed at his attitude.
Hundreds of years before the New Testament writer, Matthew, quoted Jesus’ statement about the broad and narrow roads, Solomon wrote these words in Proverbs 14:12, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.”
It is truly a challenge to be very persuasive in convincing young people that the popular ways of the world are hardly ever in line with God’s ways. But just one look at the entertainment news will clue you in on the consequences of sin. We find out about the heartbreaking stories of the rich and famous almost immediately through TV or internet. But just like the children of Israel who continually rebelled against God, people today keep living life on their own terms instead of trusting our heavenly Father to lead the way.
Fort Gibson is certainly not exempt from the consequences of sin. We see it everyday. I hear heartbreaking stories all the time of people who thought they wouldn’t get caught in one escapade or another. But sin always has a way of catching up to the one who committed it. Truth always floats to the top.
The silver lining is this: no matter how many times we choose to walk the wide and crowded path that leads to destruction, God is always nearby, with arms outstretched, ready to forgive as we repent. Have a blessed day!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
March 8, 2011
In a world where the majority of people believe that truth is relative, our incentive for sticking with God is just as powerful as ever. You see, just because someone doesn’t believe in God’s ability to save us from eternal damnation doesn’t mean it isn’t true. Whether you’re in Fort Gibson or Hollywood, truth is truth.
Christians have always been in the minority. Scripture tells us plainly that the road leading to life is narrow, while the road leading to destruction is broad (Matthew 7:13-14). Jesus goes on to say that while many people walk the wide road to hell, only a few people take the narrow path that leads to heaven.
In recent days, actor Charlie Sheen has begun to find out (again) what happens when you travel the worldly path that he thought would bring him happiness. His children have been taken away, he has lost his job, and everytime he sits down for an interview to defend himself he digs a deeper hole as he brags about his history of illegal drug abuse. Even the liberal media appears shocked and disturbed at his attitude.
Hundreds of years before the New Testament writer, Matthew, quoted Jesus’ statement about the broad and narrow roads, Solomon wrote these words in Proverbs 14:12, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.”
It is truly a challenge to be very persuasive in convincing young people that the popular ways of the world are hardly ever in line with God’s ways. But just one look at the entertainment news will clue you in on the consequences of sin. We find out about the heartbreaking stories of the rich and famous almost immediately through TV or internet. But just like the children of Israel who continually rebelled against God, people today keep living life on their own terms instead of trusting our heavenly Father to lead the way.
Fort Gibson is certainly not exempt from the consequences of sin. We see it everyday. I hear heartbreaking stories all the time of people who thought they wouldn’t get caught in one escapade or another. But sin always has a way of catching up to the one who committed it. Truth always floats to the top.
The silver lining is this: no matter how many times we choose to walk the wide and crowded path that leads to destruction, God is always nearby, with arms outstretched, ready to forgive as we repent. Have a blessed day!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Putting joy in your worship puts a smile in your heart
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 29, 2011
Psalm 28:7 says, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”
Years ago, I was at a church service when the worship leader stopped the song and asked us if we had joy in our hearts, and then he said with a smile, “Well, some of you better tell your face because you don’t look like it!”
Point well-taken. Given, sometimes we show up for worship and we may not feel worthy of communing joyfully with God because of sin in our life. And sometimes, the devil just seems to be working overtime to bring us down. Other times, we show up for worship and only go through the motions without thinking about what we are doing. When that happens, we are making the choice not to give God our best.
The Bible has a lot to say about the connection between worship and having a joyful attitude. In fact, the Psalmist David experienced joy at the very thought of going to worship. In Psalm 122:1 David says, “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”
The Apostle Paul says, “Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice (Philippians 4:4).”
So, if Christians have reason to rejoice outside of worship gatherings, how much more joy should fill our hearts when we come together to praise God in song, prayer, the Lord’s Supper, giving, and to listen to the teaching of God’s word?
Jesus tells his followers in Luke 10:20 to “…rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” If that’s not reason to burst at the seams, I don’t know what is!
Granted, having a joyful attitude in worship or elsewhere does not always mean having a smile on your face. But, it also does not mean portraying feelings of boredom or apathy.
One of the great benefits of coming together as Christians to worship God is so we can encourage one another to love and serve (Hebrews 10:23-25).”
We have many reasons to be joyful in the Lord. This week, let’s all do our best to share the enthusiasm found in the book of Jeremiah 15:16 when the prophet expressed a hunger for God’s word in this way, “When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty.”
Have a great day, and may the joy of the Lord be your strength!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 29, 2011
Psalm 28:7 says, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”
Years ago, I was at a church service when the worship leader stopped the song and asked us if we had joy in our hearts, and then he said with a smile, “Well, some of you better tell your face because you don’t look like it!”
Point well-taken. Given, sometimes we show up for worship and we may not feel worthy of communing joyfully with God because of sin in our life. And sometimes, the devil just seems to be working overtime to bring us down. Other times, we show up for worship and only go through the motions without thinking about what we are doing. When that happens, we are making the choice not to give God our best.
The Bible has a lot to say about the connection between worship and having a joyful attitude. In fact, the Psalmist David experienced joy at the very thought of going to worship. In Psalm 122:1 David says, “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”
The Apostle Paul says, “Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice (Philippians 4:4).”
So, if Christians have reason to rejoice outside of worship gatherings, how much more joy should fill our hearts when we come together to praise God in song, prayer, the Lord’s Supper, giving, and to listen to the teaching of God’s word?
Jesus tells his followers in Luke 10:20 to “…rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” If that’s not reason to burst at the seams, I don’t know what is!
Granted, having a joyful attitude in worship or elsewhere does not always mean having a smile on your face. But, it also does not mean portraying feelings of boredom or apathy.
One of the great benefits of coming together as Christians to worship God is so we can encourage one another to love and serve (Hebrews 10:23-25).”
We have many reasons to be joyful in the Lord. This week, let’s all do our best to share the enthusiasm found in the book of Jeremiah 15:16 when the prophet expressed a hunger for God’s word in this way, “When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty.”
Have a great day, and may the joy of the Lord be your strength!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Absolute truth can be found if you look in the right place
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 22, 2011
Just before Jesus was crucified, he told the Roman governor, Pontius Pilot, “Everyone on the side of truth listens to me (John 18:37).” Pilate responded, “What is truth?”
People have been searching for ages to find the answer to that question. Unfortunately, we have not always looked in the right place.
In John 14:6, Jesus answers Thomas’s question, “How can we know the way (to where you are)?” “Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
That flies in the face of today’s worldly wisdom. Mankind has manufactured more maps than ever these days that supposedly lead to truth and salvation. Even Oprah has declared that Jesus could not be the only way to God.
But Peter’s inspired words make it abundantly clear that Jesus is in fact the only way. In Acts 4:10-12, Luke quotes Peter as saying, “…there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
The term “truth” has been watered down and twisted so much that most people ironically believe that truth is absolutely relative. Huh? Yes, I agree. That makes no sense. Bottom line? Most people simply don’t like to have their options limited in anything unless it’s convenient!
One survey suggests that 70-percent of teens believe there is no such thing as absolute truth. Another statistic says that two out of three adults believe that truth is relative to the situations in which people find themselves.
If truth were known, most people would tell you they feel more comfortable when everyone understands the rules. That is certainly the case when we play any kind of game. That is also the case in business dealings. In fact, you would be hard-pressed to find a culture anywhere on the planet that doesn’t value a set of guidelines. Even the most hardened criminals recognize there are lines that should not be crossed.
One thing is for sure, we will all meet Jesus face to face some day. He will be our Judge, and he will be using God’s word to do the judging (2 Corinthians 5:10, John 12:49, 2 Timothy 4:1, Acts 10:42, Romans 2:16) .
We don’t even have to wonder which truths we will be judged by. Jesus already told us that. What mankind must decide is just how much earthly pride we are willing to let go of. The answer to that will have a direct impact on whether we will choose to let Christ lead us home to our heavenly Father.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 22, 2011
Just before Jesus was crucified, he told the Roman governor, Pontius Pilot, “Everyone on the side of truth listens to me (John 18:37).” Pilate responded, “What is truth?”
People have been searching for ages to find the answer to that question. Unfortunately, we have not always looked in the right place.
In John 14:6, Jesus answers Thomas’s question, “How can we know the way (to where you are)?” “Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
That flies in the face of today’s worldly wisdom. Mankind has manufactured more maps than ever these days that supposedly lead to truth and salvation. Even Oprah has declared that Jesus could not be the only way to God.
But Peter’s inspired words make it abundantly clear that Jesus is in fact the only way. In Acts 4:10-12, Luke quotes Peter as saying, “…there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
The term “truth” has been watered down and twisted so much that most people ironically believe that truth is absolutely relative. Huh? Yes, I agree. That makes no sense. Bottom line? Most people simply don’t like to have their options limited in anything unless it’s convenient!
One survey suggests that 70-percent of teens believe there is no such thing as absolute truth. Another statistic says that two out of three adults believe that truth is relative to the situations in which people find themselves.
If truth were known, most people would tell you they feel more comfortable when everyone understands the rules. That is certainly the case when we play any kind of game. That is also the case in business dealings. In fact, you would be hard-pressed to find a culture anywhere on the planet that doesn’t value a set of guidelines. Even the most hardened criminals recognize there are lines that should not be crossed.
One thing is for sure, we will all meet Jesus face to face some day. He will be our Judge, and he will be using God’s word to do the judging (2 Corinthians 5:10, John 12:49, 2 Timothy 4:1, Acts 10:42, Romans 2:16) .
We don’t even have to wonder which truths we will be judged by. Jesus already told us that. What mankind must decide is just how much earthly pride we are willing to let go of. The answer to that will have a direct impact on whether we will choose to let Christ lead us home to our heavenly Father.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Bible verses of comfort have been time tested
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 15, 2011
With all the cold and snow we’ve been through in the last couple of weeks, it’s hard to imagine we still have over 30 days of winter left! On the other hand, we could say that spring is only a month away! I think I like the sound of that better.
That’s the way it is in life, too. The facts are simply the facts. But how we state those facts can make a tremendous difference in the way we and others feel about them. I guess it’s like the old saying about the glass being half-empty versus half-full.
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus reminds us that those who have a relationship with God have no need to worry. It’s a principle that has proven true for thousands of years.
When I was a kid, I worried a lot about dying. I can’t remember why. It probably had something to do with watching too many episodes of Dark Shadows at the neighbor’s house. That was tame compared to today’s TV thrillers. Anyway, I seemed to dwell more on dying than on the part about getting to go to heaven. But as an adult Christian, I realize death is nothing to fear. The only sad part is the thought of leaving those you love behind to deal with life in this broken world.
I recently made a design for my business cards that included several Bible verses of comfort. And since it’s not likely that I will be able to give everyone in our town a card, I thought at least the subscribers of the Fort Gibson Times might appreciate my list of comforting Bible verses.
They include: Proverbs 3:5-6 on trusting in the Lord. John 14:1-4 on Jesus taking us to heaven. 1 Peter 5:7 on casting our anxiety on God. Philippians 4:13 on our strength coming from the Lord. Matthew 11:28 on Jesus providing rest for the burdened. 1 John 1:7 on assurances that come from walking with God. And Joshua 1:9 on being strong and courageous.
In a day and time when our culture tries to convince us to seek comfort in worldly things, verses like these can help point us to the truth. There are many more where those came from!
Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived, no doubt because of all the mistakes he made as he searched for the meaning of life. In the end, he said the whole duty of man is to “Fear God and keep his commandments (Proverbs 12:13).”
If you have a verse of comfort or encouragement, please pass it along to me after you have passed it along to a close friend. Have a blessed day!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 15, 2011
With all the cold and snow we’ve been through in the last couple of weeks, it’s hard to imagine we still have over 30 days of winter left! On the other hand, we could say that spring is only a month away! I think I like the sound of that better.
That’s the way it is in life, too. The facts are simply the facts. But how we state those facts can make a tremendous difference in the way we and others feel about them. I guess it’s like the old saying about the glass being half-empty versus half-full.
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus reminds us that those who have a relationship with God have no need to worry. It’s a principle that has proven true for thousands of years.
When I was a kid, I worried a lot about dying. I can’t remember why. It probably had something to do with watching too many episodes of Dark Shadows at the neighbor’s house. That was tame compared to today’s TV thrillers. Anyway, I seemed to dwell more on dying than on the part about getting to go to heaven. But as an adult Christian, I realize death is nothing to fear. The only sad part is the thought of leaving those you love behind to deal with life in this broken world.
I recently made a design for my business cards that included several Bible verses of comfort. And since it’s not likely that I will be able to give everyone in our town a card, I thought at least the subscribers of the Fort Gibson Times might appreciate my list of comforting Bible verses.
They include: Proverbs 3:5-6 on trusting in the Lord. John 14:1-4 on Jesus taking us to heaven. 1 Peter 5:7 on casting our anxiety on God. Philippians 4:13 on our strength coming from the Lord. Matthew 11:28 on Jesus providing rest for the burdened. 1 John 1:7 on assurances that come from walking with God. And Joshua 1:9 on being strong and courageous.
In a day and time when our culture tries to convince us to seek comfort in worldly things, verses like these can help point us to the truth. There are many more where those came from!
Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived, no doubt because of all the mistakes he made as he searched for the meaning of life. In the end, he said the whole duty of man is to “Fear God and keep his commandments (Proverbs 12:13).”
If you have a verse of comfort or encouragement, please pass it along to me after you have passed it along to a close friend. Have a blessed day!
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Winter storms bring spiritual lessons as numerous as snowflakes
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 8, 2011
As I looked outside my window at a few of Fort Gibson’s snow-packed neighborhoods, I thought about what spiritual lessons could be learned. And since we were all snowed-in for a few days, I asked my family to help me come up with some ideas. Here are five of them:
1) No matter how bad things look right now, things will improve. Even though we often have to deal with the forces of nature and other consequences of living in this world, we know heaven awaits the faithful.
2) Impressions - You can tell by looking at footprints in the snow where people have been. As Christians, we leave impressions that represent our Savior. That’s a big responsibility. We are Christ’s hands and feet. As Christians interact with people in our community, we must make sure we are leaving Godly impressions. As the winds blow, our footprints in the snow often fade. It’s the same way in life. This means Christians must continually look for opportunities to leave impressions for those outside of Christ to follow.
3) Snow can be destructive as we’ve seen this winter, just like people who wear the name Christian while bringing reproach upon the church by their worldly actions. Snow can also be beautiful, just like joyful Christians who strive to spread the love of Christ in all they do. When people experience the love of Christ through the lives of Christians, it is a beautiful thing and of great benefit to the kingdom of Christ.
4) A snowflake is one of the most unique creations known to mankind. By itself, a single snowflake is amazing. But when it unites with billions of other snowflakes, it becomes a strong force to be reckoned with. A single Christian can also do some amazing things. But when Christians unite, something very special happens, and even greater things are accomplished. The early disciples we read about were incredible individuals. But Christians uniting for the sake of Christ continues to result in fulfilling his command to spread the good news locally, then to the region, and then to the entire world (Acts 1:8).
5) And the final lesson, “Snow angels!” Everytime I see someone lie on their back in a pile of frozen precip, flap their arms and legs, and create an angel, my first thought is always, “Burrrr!” But my second thought is “Wow! That took some guts and effort.” Christians are called to be holy or set apart for service to God (1 Peter 2:9). The Bible says Christians will be rewarded according to what they have done (Romans 2:6), but it never says that living the Christian life will be easy (John 15:18-21). It takes effort. When Jesus came to earth, he set the ultimate example of what it means to put forth effort for a cause. We were his “cause,” and we still are today.
Enjoy the blessings of winter!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 8, 2011
As I looked outside my window at a few of Fort Gibson’s snow-packed neighborhoods, I thought about what spiritual lessons could be learned. And since we were all snowed-in for a few days, I asked my family to help me come up with some ideas. Here are five of them:
1) No matter how bad things look right now, things will improve. Even though we often have to deal with the forces of nature and other consequences of living in this world, we know heaven awaits the faithful.
2) Impressions - You can tell by looking at footprints in the snow where people have been. As Christians, we leave impressions that represent our Savior. That’s a big responsibility. We are Christ’s hands and feet. As Christians interact with people in our community, we must make sure we are leaving Godly impressions. As the winds blow, our footprints in the snow often fade. It’s the same way in life. This means Christians must continually look for opportunities to leave impressions for those outside of Christ to follow.
3) Snow can be destructive as we’ve seen this winter, just like people who wear the name Christian while bringing reproach upon the church by their worldly actions. Snow can also be beautiful, just like joyful Christians who strive to spread the love of Christ in all they do. When people experience the love of Christ through the lives of Christians, it is a beautiful thing and of great benefit to the kingdom of Christ.
4) A snowflake is one of the most unique creations known to mankind. By itself, a single snowflake is amazing. But when it unites with billions of other snowflakes, it becomes a strong force to be reckoned with. A single Christian can also do some amazing things. But when Christians unite, something very special happens, and even greater things are accomplished. The early disciples we read about were incredible individuals. But Christians uniting for the sake of Christ continues to result in fulfilling his command to spread the good news locally, then to the region, and then to the entire world (Acts 1:8).
5) And the final lesson, “Snow angels!” Everytime I see someone lie on their back in a pile of frozen precip, flap their arms and legs, and create an angel, my first thought is always, “Burrrr!” But my second thought is “Wow! That took some guts and effort.” Christians are called to be holy or set apart for service to God (1 Peter 2:9). The Bible says Christians will be rewarded according to what they have done (Romans 2:6), but it never says that living the Christian life will be easy (John 15:18-21). It takes effort. When Jesus came to earth, he set the ultimate example of what it means to put forth effort for a cause. We were his “cause,” and we still are today.
Enjoy the blessings of winter!
Friday, January 28, 2011
Confessing Jesus as God’s Son should change your life
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 1, 2011
2 Timothy 2:19 says, “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.”
When it comes to hope of heaven, this verse should be of interest to everyone. Confess is one of only a few words in the New Testament that gives us specific directions on how to get to heaven.
In this verse, acknowledging the Lord Jesus as God’s Son and proving your sincerity by turning away from wickedness are key to having a relationship with our Savior. The writer, Paul, goes on to say that by turning our backs on evil (or repenting), we become “…an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work (v. 21).” In other words, when we follow the Great Shepherd, He knows we are His sheep (John 10:27).
Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:9 that simply doing good works cannot save us. However, it only stands to reason that one who has truly confessed will do good works, and follow through with obeying God’s word consistently.
Until we read closely, it might be easy to draw a wrong conclusion on Romans 10:9, which says, “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
This verse means exactly what it says. But when discussing matters of salvation, we should define what it means to confess. In 2 Tim. 2:19, Paul makes it clear that one who worships God cannot partner with wickedness (Eph. 5:7 and 2 Cor. 6:14-18). As I’ve noted before, the devil and his demons clearly believed in the identities of God and the Son. But it would be absurd to think that either the devil or even those who follow his ways will enter into the joys of heaven someday. Their happiness is temporary. It will not extend beyond this life just like those who only do good things to bring praise to themselves (Matt. 6).
It would also be wise to note that in Acts 16:16-34, the jailer’s belief in the Lord was followed immediately by baptism. If fact, every Biblical example of someone becoming a Christian involved baptism (for the forgiveness of sins, Acts 2:38).
Yes, all Christians stumble and fall (Rom. 3:23). The difference between those who live in the light versus those who live in darkness is a matter of the heart. Christians who model a life of confession do not like to operate in shady circumstances or deceptive business practices. And when they fall into temptation it bothers them. They ask forgiveness from God and from those they have sinned against. God knows our heart.
The one who truly confesses is the one whose life is changed because of it. You see, when we acknowledge Christ by putting him in his proper place, we are compelled to obey his commands (Matt. 10:32-33,42). In fact, scripture says our obedience to God is how he knows we love him. God bless your efforts to conform to his will and not your own (Rom. 12:1-2).
by Barrett Vanlandingham
February 1, 2011
2 Timothy 2:19 says, “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.”
When it comes to hope of heaven, this verse should be of interest to everyone. Confess is one of only a few words in the New Testament that gives us specific directions on how to get to heaven.
In this verse, acknowledging the Lord Jesus as God’s Son and proving your sincerity by turning away from wickedness are key to having a relationship with our Savior. The writer, Paul, goes on to say that by turning our backs on evil (or repenting), we become “…an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work (v. 21).” In other words, when we follow the Great Shepherd, He knows we are His sheep (John 10:27).
Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:9 that simply doing good works cannot save us. However, it only stands to reason that one who has truly confessed will do good works, and follow through with obeying God’s word consistently.
Until we read closely, it might be easy to draw a wrong conclusion on Romans 10:9, which says, “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
This verse means exactly what it says. But when discussing matters of salvation, we should define what it means to confess. In 2 Tim. 2:19, Paul makes it clear that one who worships God cannot partner with wickedness (Eph. 5:7 and 2 Cor. 6:14-18). As I’ve noted before, the devil and his demons clearly believed in the identities of God and the Son. But it would be absurd to think that either the devil or even those who follow his ways will enter into the joys of heaven someday. Their happiness is temporary. It will not extend beyond this life just like those who only do good things to bring praise to themselves (Matt. 6).
It would also be wise to note that in Acts 16:16-34, the jailer’s belief in the Lord was followed immediately by baptism. If fact, every Biblical example of someone becoming a Christian involved baptism (for the forgiveness of sins, Acts 2:38).
Yes, all Christians stumble and fall (Rom. 3:23). The difference between those who live in the light versus those who live in darkness is a matter of the heart. Christians who model a life of confession do not like to operate in shady circumstances or deceptive business practices. And when they fall into temptation it bothers them. They ask forgiveness from God and from those they have sinned against. God knows our heart.
The one who truly confesses is the one whose life is changed because of it. You see, when we acknowledge Christ by putting him in his proper place, we are compelled to obey his commands (Matt. 10:32-33,42). In fact, scripture says our obedience to God is how he knows we love him. God bless your efforts to conform to his will and not your own (Rom. 12:1-2).
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Views of non-Christians should cause Christians to re-evaluate
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 25, 2011
Have you ever heard a non-Christian or maybe a “fallen away” Christian say that church people are just a bunch of hypocrites? I know I have. Granted, there are some folks who just use this phrase as an excuse to not commit to being an active part of a church family. That being said, in some cases these people are simply stating the truth. Ouch! How do we know this?
Among young “outsiders” to Christianity, “84-percent say they personally know at least one committed Christian. Yet, just 15-percent thought the lifestyles of those Christ followers were significantly different from the norm.” This is a quote from the book “UnChristian” based on a 2007 Barna Group survey.
The survey showed that Christians are distinct on some religious variables such as how many Bibles they own, how often they go to church, and how much money they drop in the collection plate. But when it came to non-religious lifestyle factors, David Kinnaman, the author of the book, said there were “few meaningful gaps” between those who claim to be committed Christians versus non-Christians.
The survey asked people to identify their behaviors during the last thirty days. The result was that Christians were as likely as non-Christians to bet or gamble, visit a pornographic website, view sexually explicit magazines or movies, have an affair, steal, consult a medium or a psychic, physically fight or abuse someone, get drunk, use an illegal drug, lie, seek revenge, and say mean things behind someone’s back.
Kinnaman says, “It’s not just our lifestyles that have gotten us into trouble.” He says “It’s the very way in which we convey the priorities of being a Christian.”
The survey showed that the most common message Christians convey is that Christianity is a religion of rules and regulations. Kinnaman says that “outsiders” think of us as hypocrites because they are measuring us by our own standards.
However, he is quick to point out that the Bible says we should bear much fruit (John 15:8), and that without a way of measuring the reality of our faith, it is nothing more than empty beliefs (James 2:20-26). In other words, “Faith without deeds is dead.”
Scripture says we will continue to mess up as long as we live. But that doesn’t mean we can’t commit wholeheartedly everyday to a life of imitating our Savior and Lord, being known by our love and being compelled by His. God bless!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 25, 2011
Have you ever heard a non-Christian or maybe a “fallen away” Christian say that church people are just a bunch of hypocrites? I know I have. Granted, there are some folks who just use this phrase as an excuse to not commit to being an active part of a church family. That being said, in some cases these people are simply stating the truth. Ouch! How do we know this?
Among young “outsiders” to Christianity, “84-percent say they personally know at least one committed Christian. Yet, just 15-percent thought the lifestyles of those Christ followers were significantly different from the norm.” This is a quote from the book “UnChristian” based on a 2007 Barna Group survey.
The survey showed that Christians are distinct on some religious variables such as how many Bibles they own, how often they go to church, and how much money they drop in the collection plate. But when it came to non-religious lifestyle factors, David Kinnaman, the author of the book, said there were “few meaningful gaps” between those who claim to be committed Christians versus non-Christians.
The survey asked people to identify their behaviors during the last thirty days. The result was that Christians were as likely as non-Christians to bet or gamble, visit a pornographic website, view sexually explicit magazines or movies, have an affair, steal, consult a medium or a psychic, physically fight or abuse someone, get drunk, use an illegal drug, lie, seek revenge, and say mean things behind someone’s back.
Kinnaman says, “It’s not just our lifestyles that have gotten us into trouble.” He says “It’s the very way in which we convey the priorities of being a Christian.”
The survey showed that the most common message Christians convey is that Christianity is a religion of rules and regulations. Kinnaman says that “outsiders” think of us as hypocrites because they are measuring us by our own standards.
However, he is quick to point out that the Bible says we should bear much fruit (John 15:8), and that without a way of measuring the reality of our faith, it is nothing more than empty beliefs (James 2:20-26). In other words, “Faith without deeds is dead.”
Scripture says we will continue to mess up as long as we live. But that doesn’t mean we can’t commit wholeheartedly everyday to a life of imitating our Savior and Lord, being known by our love and being compelled by His. God bless!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
The love of Christ is important to Fort Gibson
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 18, 2011
2011 begins my fifth year of writing my “Fort Faith” column for the Fort Gibson Times. So far, I’ve written on topics such as salvation, reliability of the Bible, mission work, evolution, and Christian attitudes.
These are all important things to talk about. But there is no more important topic to discuss than that of spreading the love of Christ throughout our community. The reason I say that is because if we will continue “being Jesus” to those around us, can you imagine what Fort Gibson would be like? Not that God hasn’t blessed our town already. After all, Fort Gibson is ranked second in the state for the best place to raise children. Let’s never take that for granted.
In a lot of towns, there can be a big difference between being a nice place to live versus being a Godly place to live. In Fort Gibson’s case, I tend to think the two are very much intertwined. Though we are a small town, people who call themselves Christians here still have plenty of opportunities to be Jesus to those who are hurting. I’m glad I live in a town where it’s not hard to find people doing just that.
But not to stick our heads in the sand, we must stay alert to those who have not heard or experienced the story of Jesus and his love for all. In my position as youth minister at Fort Gibson Church of Christ, students occasionally request prayer for a friend who doesn’t believe in God. They also ask me questions about how to respond to classmates who have trouble believing Bible stories such as the flood, creation, and various other miracles.
One of the things I truly believe is that the most effective way of reaching others with the Bible is to simply live it. Remember, most people will come closer to listening to those who model the love of Christ as opposed to only telling them about it. This is true with friends, family members and anyone else you’re around. Godly actions on the part of Christians can and do lead to open doors where people are anxious to hear the rest of the story.
Bottom line? The love of Jesus changes people’s lives. That’s why the Bible is the best seller of all times, and that’s why so many people have written about Jesus for so many centuries dating back to shortly after the Bible was completed in the first century.
Please take time today to pray for the people of our town to continue doing what it takes to be blessed with such a great place to live. God bless!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 18, 2011
2011 begins my fifth year of writing my “Fort Faith” column for the Fort Gibson Times. So far, I’ve written on topics such as salvation, reliability of the Bible, mission work, evolution, and Christian attitudes.
These are all important things to talk about. But there is no more important topic to discuss than that of spreading the love of Christ throughout our community. The reason I say that is because if we will continue “being Jesus” to those around us, can you imagine what Fort Gibson would be like? Not that God hasn’t blessed our town already. After all, Fort Gibson is ranked second in the state for the best place to raise children. Let’s never take that for granted.
In a lot of towns, there can be a big difference between being a nice place to live versus being a Godly place to live. In Fort Gibson’s case, I tend to think the two are very much intertwined. Though we are a small town, people who call themselves Christians here still have plenty of opportunities to be Jesus to those who are hurting. I’m glad I live in a town where it’s not hard to find people doing just that.
But not to stick our heads in the sand, we must stay alert to those who have not heard or experienced the story of Jesus and his love for all. In my position as youth minister at Fort Gibson Church of Christ, students occasionally request prayer for a friend who doesn’t believe in God. They also ask me questions about how to respond to classmates who have trouble believing Bible stories such as the flood, creation, and various other miracles.
One of the things I truly believe is that the most effective way of reaching others with the Bible is to simply live it. Remember, most people will come closer to listening to those who model the love of Christ as opposed to only telling them about it. This is true with friends, family members and anyone else you’re around. Godly actions on the part of Christians can and do lead to open doors where people are anxious to hear the rest of the story.
Bottom line? The love of Jesus changes people’s lives. That’s why the Bible is the best seller of all times, and that’s why so many people have written about Jesus for so many centuries dating back to shortly after the Bible was completed in the first century.
Please take time today to pray for the people of our town to continue doing what it takes to be blessed with such a great place to live. God bless!
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Article on creation sparks heated comments
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 11, 2011
By far, the Fort Faith article of 2010 that received the most feedback was printed in the October 27 Fort Gibson Times. It was titled: The Bible is easy to believe when you examine the evidence.
I really don’t consider myself to be a controversial writer. I guess that’s why I was shocked at the level of insults espoused by some of those who responded. As far as I can tell, the venom came from other parts of the U.S. and even overseas by online readers who do not share the Bible’s account of how the world came into being, and how mankind was created.
Those who responded negatively referred to me as liar, ignorant, poor soul, pathetic, and brainwashed fool. At one point, one guy even tried to prove me wrong by referring to words he read in a fictional book titled: The Da Vinci Code. Another person compared the Bible to mythical writings of long ago.
Rebellion to God’s word is nothing new. In 2 Timothy 4:2-5 Paul tells his young friend Timothy that the time will come when men will find teachers to teach them what their itching ears want to hear, turning away from the truth in exchange for myths.
Paul encourages Timothy to “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction.”
Another of my favorite scriptures comes from 1 Peter 3:15. “But in your hearts set apart 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.”
In both passages, the writers remind Christians to keep their attitude in check while teaching those who would attack.
It’s been my personal experience that when someone doesn’t share the views of the Bible, but yet has no proof otherwise, they resort to character attacks.
But Paul says to endure hardship as we do the work of an evangelist. The lashes he underwent certainly qualify him to talk about persecution.
May you find strength, courage, and wisdom this year as you stand up for God’s truths, letting our community and even the entire world see Christ’s love working in you. This year I plan to continue teaching God’s truths in my words, deeds, and in my writings. Thank you for reading Fort Faith, and BIG thanks to the Muskogee Phoenix for continuing to publish my article in the Fort Gibson Times.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
January 11, 2011
By far, the Fort Faith article of 2010 that received the most feedback was printed in the October 27 Fort Gibson Times. It was titled: The Bible is easy to believe when you examine the evidence.
I really don’t consider myself to be a controversial writer. I guess that’s why I was shocked at the level of insults espoused by some of those who responded. As far as I can tell, the venom came from other parts of the U.S. and even overseas by online readers who do not share the Bible’s account of how the world came into being, and how mankind was created.
Those who responded negatively referred to me as liar, ignorant, poor soul, pathetic, and brainwashed fool. At one point, one guy even tried to prove me wrong by referring to words he read in a fictional book titled: The Da Vinci Code. Another person compared the Bible to mythical writings of long ago.
Rebellion to God’s word is nothing new. In 2 Timothy 4:2-5 Paul tells his young friend Timothy that the time will come when men will find teachers to teach them what their itching ears want to hear, turning away from the truth in exchange for myths.
Paul encourages Timothy to “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction.”
Another of my favorite scriptures comes from 1 Peter 3:15. “But in your hearts set apart 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.”
In both passages, the writers remind Christians to keep their attitude in check while teaching those who would attack.
It’s been my personal experience that when someone doesn’t share the views of the Bible, but yet has no proof otherwise, they resort to character attacks.
But Paul says to endure hardship as we do the work of an evangelist. The lashes he underwent certainly qualify him to talk about persecution.
May you find strength, courage, and wisdom this year as you stand up for God’s truths, letting our community and even the entire world see Christ’s love working in you. This year I plan to continue teaching God’s truths in my words, deeds, and in my writings. Thank you for reading Fort Faith, and BIG thanks to the Muskogee Phoenix for continuing to publish my article in the Fort Gibson Times.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
God presence can improve your New Year
by Barrett Vanlandingham
December 28, 2010
In just a few days we will ring in the New Year of 2011. In the Bible, the New Testament has a lot to say about new things.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17 Paul says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
Most of us probably like the sound of becoming a new creation, especially for those of us who’ve lived long enough to experience challenges in this old life. So, how do we become a new creation? Paul says we must be in Christ to become new.
Think of it this way. In order for a seed to grow into a new plant, either the old plant has to die, or there must be a separation of the old plant from the new seed. This happens in our culture everyday as old ways and ideas make room for the new.
In John 12:24 Jesus consoles his disciples by explaining to them the importance of him dying. “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”
This was a new way of looking at things for Jesus’ disciples. Up until this point, they hadn’t really thought about carrying on Jesus’ teachings and acts of service in his absence.
Jesus was the perfect sacrifice. He had to die, not only so he could be raised from the dead to live a new life, but also so that we could have hope of a new life in heaven. Jesus’ birth, his life, his suffering, his death, and his resurrection are the Gospel story. It has stood the test of time and continues to be the freshest, most exciting and life-changing Good News ever told! But the New Testament’s Gospel story could have never been written without Christ’s death on the cross. Only the blood of the Lamb could forgive sin. That was something the blood of bulls and goats could never accomplish.
We too must die to self, turn our back on worldly ways in the things we say and do, and be buried through baptism into Christ so that we can be raised to live a new life, clothed in Christ. These principles are taught in Romans 6:1-11, Galatians 3:26-27 and Galatians 2:20.
As each generation tries to be new and improved, mankind has also tried to improve on the Bible’s plan of salvation. This is not wise. In Mark 8:36 Jesus asks, “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?”
God’s Word gives us everything we need to find salvation (2 Timothy 3:15-17).
2011 will bring many new opportunities for us all. May we never be ashamed of taking a stand for Jesus in the New Year and every year. God bless your efforts to live for Him and teach others the love of Christ. (end)
An Adventure in Honduras
by Barrett Vanlandingham
December 16, 2010
My trip to Central America to the mountainous region of Honduras last week was eye-opening. Our hopes were to
find mission works for our church family to get involved with since our door for taking teams into Mexico is closed for now.
But as they say, when one door is closed, God always opens another. And this trip was definitely a success!
On one day, missions deacon Glen Elliott and I visited a medical clinic funded by churches of Christ through Mission
Lazarus. It was about four blocks from the Pacific coast. The irony is that we were under the shade of beautiful coconut and
palm trees as we visited impoverished and malnourished children who were taking part in a nutrition program. Some of the
toddlers and other young children had bloated stomachs from drinking water that contains parasites which cause gas. Other
children struggled with health problems because of the germs that enter a child’s system through bare feet. And others were
in fact suffering from lack of food and from not eating the right kinds of foods.
Next, we continued down a highway that should be labeled “pothole alley.” We passed dozens of ox-drawn carts,
and hundreds of bicyclists and pedestrians on either side of the narrow roads. Our driver slowed down enough at one point
so that several young boys could give us a close-up look at live iguanas they were hoping to sell us for five-dollars apiece.
No, I didn’t even attempt to bring one back with me. Can you imagine making it through an airport pat-down with a two-foot
long Honduran iguana?
We also went to a neighborhood to check on a home-building project. As I was shooting video, a man and his herd
of livestock came around the corner towards us, not in a trailer, but on foot, or should I say on hoof! Let’s just say at one
point I pictured myself in a situation similar to the “running of the bulls” in Spain. Not nearly as extreme, but when one
huge black Brahma bull lowered its head at me and I briefly felt the power of its head and horns, I knew this was serious
business. My shirt ripped on a fence as I was making my getaway, but trust me, I wasn’t worried about the shirt.
The adventures continued. We attended the graduation of several bright young preachers from the four year Baxter
Institute. We got to know two of them very well, Siney Medina and Olvin Flores, who need support for their work in Honduras.
We also spent a couple of nights loading thousands of Christmas gifts to be hauled into some of the poorest regions
of Honduras through the “Magi Project.” And we got to eat tostadas from a street vendor just three miles from the Nicaraguan
border while purchasing a giant fallen tree from a landowner. The wood will be made into furniture for
Mission Lazarus to sell to support its orphanage and other projects.
We can all take part in telling and showing the Good News of Jesus as he commanded in Matthew 28:18-
20 and Acts 1:8. May God bless us all as we prayerfully consider how to best use our blessings and talents to go
and be a witness for Christ in foreign lands and here at home.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
December 28, 2010
In just a few days we will ring in the New Year of 2011. In the Bible, the New Testament has a lot to say about new things.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17 Paul says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
Most of us probably like the sound of becoming a new creation, especially for those of us who’ve lived long enough to experience challenges in this old life. So, how do we become a new creation? Paul says we must be in Christ to become new.
Think of it this way. In order for a seed to grow into a new plant, either the old plant has to die, or there must be a separation of the old plant from the new seed. This happens in our culture everyday as old ways and ideas make room for the new.
In John 12:24 Jesus consoles his disciples by explaining to them the importance of him dying. “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”
This was a new way of looking at things for Jesus’ disciples. Up until this point, they hadn’t really thought about carrying on Jesus’ teachings and acts of service in his absence.
Jesus was the perfect sacrifice. He had to die, not only so he could be raised from the dead to live a new life, but also so that we could have hope of a new life in heaven. Jesus’ birth, his life, his suffering, his death, and his resurrection are the Gospel story. It has stood the test of time and continues to be the freshest, most exciting and life-changing Good News ever told! But the New Testament’s Gospel story could have never been written without Christ’s death on the cross. Only the blood of the Lamb could forgive sin. That was something the blood of bulls and goats could never accomplish.
We too must die to self, turn our back on worldly ways in the things we say and do, and be buried through baptism into Christ so that we can be raised to live a new life, clothed in Christ. These principles are taught in Romans 6:1-11, Galatians 3:26-27 and Galatians 2:20.
As each generation tries to be new and improved, mankind has also tried to improve on the Bible’s plan of salvation. This is not wise. In Mark 8:36 Jesus asks, “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?”
God’s Word gives us everything we need to find salvation (2 Timothy 3:15-17).
2011 will bring many new opportunities for us all. May we never be ashamed of taking a stand for Jesus in the New Year and every year. God bless your efforts to live for Him and teach others the love of Christ. (end)
An Adventure in Honduras
by Barrett Vanlandingham
December 16, 2010
My trip to Central America to the mountainous region of Honduras last week was eye-opening. Our hopes were to
find mission works for our church family to get involved with since our door for taking teams into Mexico is closed for now.
But as they say, when one door is closed, God always opens another. And this trip was definitely a success!
On one day, missions deacon Glen Elliott and I visited a medical clinic funded by churches of Christ through Mission
Lazarus. It was about four blocks from the Pacific coast. The irony is that we were under the shade of beautiful coconut and
palm trees as we visited impoverished and malnourished children who were taking part in a nutrition program. Some of the
toddlers and other young children had bloated stomachs from drinking water that contains parasites which cause gas. Other
children struggled with health problems because of the germs that enter a child’s system through bare feet. And others were
in fact suffering from lack of food and from not eating the right kinds of foods.
Next, we continued down a highway that should be labeled “pothole alley.” We passed dozens of ox-drawn carts,
and hundreds of bicyclists and pedestrians on either side of the narrow roads. Our driver slowed down enough at one point
so that several young boys could give us a close-up look at live iguanas they were hoping to sell us for five-dollars apiece.
No, I didn’t even attempt to bring one back with me. Can you imagine making it through an airport pat-down with a two-foot
long Honduran iguana?
We also went to a neighborhood to check on a home-building project. As I was shooting video, a man and his herd
of livestock came around the corner towards us, not in a trailer, but on foot, or should I say on hoof! Let’s just say at one
point I pictured myself in a situation similar to the “running of the bulls” in Spain. Not nearly as extreme, but when one
huge black Brahma bull lowered its head at me and I briefly felt the power of its head and horns, I knew this was serious
business. My shirt ripped on a fence as I was making my getaway, but trust me, I wasn’t worried about the shirt.
The adventures continued. We attended the graduation of several bright young preachers from the four year Baxter
Institute. We got to know two of them very well, Siney Medina and Olvin Flores, who need support for their work in Honduras.
We also spent a couple of nights loading thousands of Christmas gifts to be hauled into some of the poorest regions
of Honduras through the “Magi Project.” And we got to eat tostadas from a street vendor just three miles from the Nicaraguan
border while purchasing a giant fallen tree from a landowner. The wood will be made into furniture for
Mission Lazarus to sell to support its orphanage and other projects.
We can all take part in telling and showing the Good News of Jesus as he commanded in Matthew 28:18-
20 and Acts 1:8. May God bless us all as we prayerfully consider how to best use our blessings and talents to go
and be a witness for Christ in foreign lands and here at home.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
God can bring peace to life’s challenges
by Barrett Vanlandingham
December 7, 2010
When I entered into full-time ministry nearly nine years ago, I didn’t realize Satan worked against Christians in so many ways.
As you read this, I will be returning from a week of fact-finding in Honduras for the Fort Gibson Church of Christ. Our missions deacon Glen Elliott and I are hoping to find a replacement trip for our Mexico mission effort. It was put on hold over the summer because of the escalating drug wars and kidnapping in Mexico. In fact, as I write this, I have just received word that one of the locals, a young man we worked with on a church building project, has been kidnapped by drug cartel thugs. His name is Felipe. He is the right-hand man for Ladi Gordiano who is the foreman on several church building projects in Monterrey. He is also a Gospel preacher. Please pray for all those in Mexico who are doing the Lord’s work.
When Jesus said, “Go into all the world…” he never said things would be easy. To prepare for the Honduras trip, I got a tetanus shot, a prescription of malaria pills, I read news reports, watched videos, looked at pictures, crammed my brain full of Central America trivia, and sought advice from others. But the fact is we live in a very unpredictable world that is not controlled by any one of us, no matter how much prep work we do.
As Christians, we must have faith that things will turn out for the best (Romans 8:28) and that God’s view of what goes on in the world is complete. He sees the beginning, middle, and end. We only see a small part of the picture. The apostle Paul evidently spent some time thinking about this as well.
In 1 Corinthians 13:12 Paul wrote, “Now we see but a poor 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.”
As much as we would like, there is no way we can fully understand why things happen the way they do here in this broken world. Can you even imagine how terrifying life would be if we knew what was around every corner? Perhaps that is why Peter wrote that we should “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).”
The first part of that verse encourages us to stay focused. You see, it is only when we view life through a Godly lens that we can even begin to understand spiritual warfare.
May you experience joy and peace this week as you turn your heart over to God, and let him deal with life’s unpredictable moments. (end)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
December 7, 2010
When I entered into full-time ministry nearly nine years ago, I didn’t realize Satan worked against Christians in so many ways.
As you read this, I will be returning from a week of fact-finding in Honduras for the Fort Gibson Church of Christ. Our missions deacon Glen Elliott and I are hoping to find a replacement trip for our Mexico mission effort. It was put on hold over the summer because of the escalating drug wars and kidnapping in Mexico. In fact, as I write this, I have just received word that one of the locals, a young man we worked with on a church building project, has been kidnapped by drug cartel thugs. His name is Felipe. He is the right-hand man for Ladi Gordiano who is the foreman on several church building projects in Monterrey. He is also a Gospel preacher. Please pray for all those in Mexico who are doing the Lord’s work.
When Jesus said, “Go into all the world…” he never said things would be easy. To prepare for the Honduras trip, I got a tetanus shot, a prescription of malaria pills, I read news reports, watched videos, looked at pictures, crammed my brain full of Central America trivia, and sought advice from others. But the fact is we live in a very unpredictable world that is not controlled by any one of us, no matter how much prep work we do.
As Christians, we must have faith that things will turn out for the best (Romans 8:28) and that God’s view of what goes on in the world is complete. He sees the beginning, middle, and end. We only see a small part of the picture. The apostle Paul evidently spent some time thinking about this as well.
In 1 Corinthians 13:12 Paul wrote, “Now we see but a poor 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.”
As much as we would like, there is no way we can fully understand why things happen the way they do here in this broken world. Can you even imagine how terrifying life would be if we knew what was around every corner? Perhaps that is why Peter wrote that we should “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).”
The first part of that verse encourages us to stay focused. You see, it is only when we view life through a Godly lens that we can even begin to understand spiritual warfare.
May you experience joy and peace this week as you turn your heart over to God, and let him deal with life’s unpredictable moments. (end)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The more you give, the more you are like God
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 30, 2010
I don’t know about you but every morning when I wake up, there are certain things I expect God to do for me. I expect the sun to rise. I expect there to be ground to walk on. I expect there to be air to breathe. And I expect there to be a heavenly home awaiting me if this should be my last day to live.
But have you ever thought about what life would be like if God gave us what we deserved? Scary thought, huh? The fact is most of us expect God to keep blessing us even though we don’t always treat him as we should.
Jesus tells us in Luke 6:27-28 “…Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” He goes on to say that if we only love and do good to those who love us, we’re no better than those who choose to live in sin.
It would be easy for us to get depressed if we went through life feeling as though God owed us something. But if we counted our blessings, we would most definitely find that the good outweighs the bad. And God expects us to share life’s blessings with others.
This is the time of year when it becomes a little harder to stretch a dollar. But it’s also the time of year that can be a real blessing when it comes to spiritual growth. You see, when we trust God to take care of our needs, he always comes through.
One of the questions I often get asked is what to do if you’re not sure you have enough money, food, clothing or whatever to give away? Go ahead and give. That’s an excellent opportunity to grow your faith.
In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus says, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?” or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ He goes on to say “…your heavenly Father knows that you need them.” Then Jesus tells the crowd to put God first in their lives and then all those other worries will be taken care of. (ref: Matthew 6:31-33)
Many people across America just finished celebrating Thanksgiving. Many prayers of thanks were given for life’s blessings. But now we head into another season in which many gifts will be exchanged, and many will celebrate the ultimate gift of Jesus Christ.
This is also an excellent opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life by giving to those less fortunate than you, and by telling and showing others how a life with Jesus is the greatest gift ever. (end)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 30, 2010
I don’t know about you but every morning when I wake up, there are certain things I expect God to do for me. I expect the sun to rise. I expect there to be ground to walk on. I expect there to be air to breathe. And I expect there to be a heavenly home awaiting me if this should be my last day to live.
But have you ever thought about what life would be like if God gave us what we deserved? Scary thought, huh? The fact is most of us expect God to keep blessing us even though we don’t always treat him as we should.
Jesus tells us in Luke 6:27-28 “…Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” He goes on to say that if we only love and do good to those who love us, we’re no better than those who choose to live in sin.
It would be easy for us to get depressed if we went through life feeling as though God owed us something. But if we counted our blessings, we would most definitely find that the good outweighs the bad. And God expects us to share life’s blessings with others.
This is the time of year when it becomes a little harder to stretch a dollar. But it’s also the time of year that can be a real blessing when it comes to spiritual growth. You see, when we trust God to take care of our needs, he always comes through.
One of the questions I often get asked is what to do if you’re not sure you have enough money, food, clothing or whatever to give away? Go ahead and give. That’s an excellent opportunity to grow your faith.
In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus says, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?” or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ He goes on to say “…your heavenly Father knows that you need them.” Then Jesus tells the crowd to put God first in their lives and then all those other worries will be taken care of. (ref: Matthew 6:31-33)
Many people across America just finished celebrating Thanksgiving. Many prayers of thanks were given for life’s blessings. But now we head into another season in which many gifts will be exchanged, and many will celebrate the ultimate gift of Jesus Christ.
This is also an excellent opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life by giving to those less fortunate than you, and by telling and showing others how a life with Jesus is the greatest gift ever. (end)
Thursday, November 11, 2010
The Autumn Season Highlights God’s Handiwork
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 16, 2010
For the first time ever, the leaves on the maple tree in my yard turned a brilliant bright yellow splashed with shades of orange and red! Past years have not been near this impressive. But this year? Well, as my son put it, “Our tree looks like a picture!”
Of course, why should anyone be surprised? After all, God has had a lot of practice since the third day of creation when He made plants and trees (Genesis 1:11).
So why are some autumns prettier than others? That’s kind of the boring part, but it suffices to say that differing amounts of sunlight, rain, and cool but not freezing nights (so the experts say) are the cause.
In Ecclesiastes 3:11 Solomon says this of God, “He has made all things beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
God has truly blessed all of us with a beautiful autumn this year. I have seen a lot of colorful trees in and around Fort Gibson that demand I take notice of God’s amazing power and creativity.
Leaves changing color is no accident. God designed them in this way. Science tells us that during the summer, leaves combine sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and sugar. It’s a process called photosynthesis. But since there’s not enough light in the winter for this to happen, most trees rest and live off the food they have stored up. Then the green Chlorophyll disappears so we can see the orange and yellow colors that were there all along. The reds and purples appear as cooler weather changes the color of the sugars.
Amazing! And after that, the dead leaves even have a job to do. Once they fall to the ground, they provide nutrients to the soil and help hold moisture in the ground.
The world in which we live is vibrant, orderly, and beautifully jaw-dropping. It was designed in such a way that mankind could catch a glimpse of our Creator and have a greater appreciation for Him.
Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.”
God is good. Have a blessed week!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 16, 2010
For the first time ever, the leaves on the maple tree in my yard turned a brilliant bright yellow splashed with shades of orange and red! Past years have not been near this impressive. But this year? Well, as my son put it, “Our tree looks like a picture!”
Of course, why should anyone be surprised? After all, God has had a lot of practice since the third day of creation when He made plants and trees (Genesis 1:11).
So why are some autumns prettier than others? That’s kind of the boring part, but it suffices to say that differing amounts of sunlight, rain, and cool but not freezing nights (so the experts say) are the cause.
In Ecclesiastes 3:11 Solomon says this of God, “He has made all things beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
God has truly blessed all of us with a beautiful autumn this year. I have seen a lot of colorful trees in and around Fort Gibson that demand I take notice of God’s amazing power and creativity.
Leaves changing color is no accident. God designed them in this way. Science tells us that during the summer, leaves combine sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and sugar. It’s a process called photosynthesis. But since there’s not enough light in the winter for this to happen, most trees rest and live off the food they have stored up. Then the green Chlorophyll disappears so we can see the orange and yellow colors that were there all along. The reds and purples appear as cooler weather changes the color of the sugars.
Amazing! And after that, the dead leaves even have a job to do. Once they fall to the ground, they provide nutrients to the soil and help hold moisture in the ground.
The world in which we live is vibrant, orderly, and beautifully jaw-dropping. It was designed in such a way that mankind could catch a glimpse of our Creator and have a greater appreciation for Him.
Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.”
God is good. Have a blessed week!
Monday, October 25, 2010
God’s word can guide us through Satan’s deceptions
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 9, 2010
I consider myself to be pretty savvy when it comes to the internet. But about a month and a half ago, I accidentally subscribed to a penny bidding service called swipeauctions.com. The way I understood it, you’re supposed to pay a penny to bid on an item. Then, the company charges your credit card for your bids and your purchase. Here’s the problem. As soon as I signed up for the service and punched in my credit card number, a message popped up saying something like, “Congratulations on your $159 membership purchase!” There was no “Are you sure?” There was no “This amount will be charged to you.” It was just click and then “Congratulations!”
When it comes to doing spiritual battle, that’s the way the devil works. There are no second chances. When a person joins up with the dark side, even by accident, there are negative consequences. Sometimes immediate, sometimes delayed, but there are always consequences.
Satan is very manipulative. He makes sin look so inviting, sometimes almost too good to be true. He even tries to convince us that secret sins are okay since no one will ever find out. But the fact is it’s not okay. Sin is never okay. Sin cannot enter the presence of God. That’s why it’s so important to show by your actions that you believe Jesus is the Son of God, and that you are committed to obeying his commands and example. The New Testament says the saved are those who’ve been symbolically buried with Christ in baptism, then raised to live a new life clothed in Christ (Galatians 3:26 & Romans 6:1-11).
This doesn’t mean Satan will leave you alone because you have committed yourself to Christ. Realistically, the devil will likely target you even more. After all, Satan tempted Jesus himself in the desert for forty days just before his official ministry began (Luke 4:1-13). Even as Jesus was fasting, the devil was cleverly trying to convince Him that it was okay to turn stones into bread and give in to earthly cravings. Satan also tried to make a deal with Jesus to worship Satan, and in exchange the devil would give Jesus more authority over earthly things. Then the devil even tried to get Jesus to jump off the highest point of the temple so that angels could rescue Jesus. Of course, we know that Jesus refused in all three instances, and quoted his reasons directly from scripture.
You see, Jesus not only had God’s word in his heart, but he also obeyed it. Jesus could have taken the easy way out, but he set the example for us so we could have a worthy Savior to follow.
Well, it has taken me over a month to get swipeauctions.com to agree to give my money back. As for me, I’ve learned several good lessons along the way, not the least of which comes from 1 Corinthians 10:12, “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall.” Have a great day! (end)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 9, 2010
I consider myself to be pretty savvy when it comes to the internet. But about a month and a half ago, I accidentally subscribed to a penny bidding service called swipeauctions.com. The way I understood it, you’re supposed to pay a penny to bid on an item. Then, the company charges your credit card for your bids and your purchase. Here’s the problem. As soon as I signed up for the service and punched in my credit card number, a message popped up saying something like, “Congratulations on your $159 membership purchase!” There was no “Are you sure?” There was no “This amount will be charged to you.” It was just click and then “Congratulations!”
When it comes to doing spiritual battle, that’s the way the devil works. There are no second chances. When a person joins up with the dark side, even by accident, there are negative consequences. Sometimes immediate, sometimes delayed, but there are always consequences.
Satan is very manipulative. He makes sin look so inviting, sometimes almost too good to be true. He even tries to convince us that secret sins are okay since no one will ever find out. But the fact is it’s not okay. Sin is never okay. Sin cannot enter the presence of God. That’s why it’s so important to show by your actions that you believe Jesus is the Son of God, and that you are committed to obeying his commands and example. The New Testament says the saved are those who’ve been symbolically buried with Christ in baptism, then raised to live a new life clothed in Christ (Galatians 3:26 & Romans 6:1-11).
This doesn’t mean Satan will leave you alone because you have committed yourself to Christ. Realistically, the devil will likely target you even more. After all, Satan tempted Jesus himself in the desert for forty days just before his official ministry began (Luke 4:1-13). Even as Jesus was fasting, the devil was cleverly trying to convince Him that it was okay to turn stones into bread and give in to earthly cravings. Satan also tried to make a deal with Jesus to worship Satan, and in exchange the devil would give Jesus more authority over earthly things. Then the devil even tried to get Jesus to jump off the highest point of the temple so that angels could rescue Jesus. Of course, we know that Jesus refused in all three instances, and quoted his reasons directly from scripture.
You see, Jesus not only had God’s word in his heart, but he also obeyed it. Jesus could have taken the easy way out, but he set the example for us so we could have a worthy Savior to follow.
Well, it has taken me over a month to get swipeauctions.com to agree to give my money back. As for me, I’ve learned several good lessons along the way, not the least of which comes from 1 Corinthians 10:12, “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall.” Have a great day! (end)
Facing fears versus fleeing evil: thoughts from the campfire
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 2, 2010
My 12-year old son Britton and I went on a little hunting and camping trip at my parents’ farm in Tahlequah over fall break. There’s nothing more relaxing to me than a night with a full moon, perfect weather, a campfire, and a tent by a pond on the side of a hill. It was fun even though I kept falling asleep at the upper end of the tent, and would wake up after sliding to the lower end.
We were planning to hunt coyotes in the morning but not at 5a.m.! That’s when I was awakened to the sound of something that just seemed large as it brushed up against the side of our tent. My mind was racing with how to scare this creature away and rescue my sleeping son. So, I manned up, and went outside the tent to stoke the campfire and do my best in my role of protector. But much to my joy, the only things I had to contend with were two friendly donkeys, a curious mule, and a small herd of horses that had come by for a drink at the pond. I breathed a sigh of relief until it dawned on me that horses like to lean up against large solid structures to scratch. I thought to myself, “If those horses lean on this tent and fall over on my son, there won’t be anything left of him.” So, I quickly shewed them away as to avoid such a calamity.
So what does this little camping story have to do with matters of faith? For me, it’s a reminder of how the devil can sneak up on us when we least expect it. Just about the time we think all the conditions of life are perfect, Satan is always slithering close-by to choke the joy out of us. The devil can use anything or anyone to accomplish his task of stealing souls. He can use friends, family members, bosses, co-workers, traffic situations, financial struggles, and lust of many kinds to draw us away from God. And it’s usually when our defenses are down.
I like the story of David and Goliath because even though David’s own brothers were jealous and gave him absolutely no support, God was there to give him strength to face the giant. 1 Samuel 17:48 says that David ran to the battle line to meet Goliath and ultimately achieved victory. So even though scripture also tells us to avoid evil, sometimes overcoming our adversary means facing it head-on, like David did.
Bible study, prayer, and advice from an older, wiser Christian can be of great help in deciding which direction is best. Either way, giving your challenges over to God will give you peace when you need it most.
God bless and have a great day!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
November 2, 2010
My 12-year old son Britton and I went on a little hunting and camping trip at my parents’ farm in Tahlequah over fall break. There’s nothing more relaxing to me than a night with a full moon, perfect weather, a campfire, and a tent by a pond on the side of a hill. It was fun even though I kept falling asleep at the upper end of the tent, and would wake up after sliding to the lower end.
We were planning to hunt coyotes in the morning but not at 5a.m.! That’s when I was awakened to the sound of something that just seemed large as it brushed up against the side of our tent. My mind was racing with how to scare this creature away and rescue my sleeping son. So, I manned up, and went outside the tent to stoke the campfire and do my best in my role of protector. But much to my joy, the only things I had to contend with were two friendly donkeys, a curious mule, and a small herd of horses that had come by for a drink at the pond. I breathed a sigh of relief until it dawned on me that horses like to lean up against large solid structures to scratch. I thought to myself, “If those horses lean on this tent and fall over on my son, there won’t be anything left of him.” So, I quickly shewed them away as to avoid such a calamity.
So what does this little camping story have to do with matters of faith? For me, it’s a reminder of how the devil can sneak up on us when we least expect it. Just about the time we think all the conditions of life are perfect, Satan is always slithering close-by to choke the joy out of us. The devil can use anything or anyone to accomplish his task of stealing souls. He can use friends, family members, bosses, co-workers, traffic situations, financial struggles, and lust of many kinds to draw us away from God. And it’s usually when our defenses are down.
I like the story of David and Goliath because even though David’s own brothers were jealous and gave him absolutely no support, God was there to give him strength to face the giant. 1 Samuel 17:48 says that David ran to the battle line to meet Goliath and ultimately achieved victory. So even though scripture also tells us to avoid evil, sometimes overcoming our adversary means facing it head-on, like David did.
Bible study, prayer, and advice from an older, wiser Christian can be of great help in deciding which direction is best. Either way, giving your challenges over to God will give you peace when you need it most.
God bless and have a great day!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The Bible is easy to believe when you examine the evidence
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 26, 2010
I used to take it for granted that when I began a Bible study with someone that they at least believed in God, and believed in the Bible’s account of creation. Well, that hasn’t been the case for me for quite some time. In fact, these days it seems it is more fashionable than ever to doubt God word or even profess to be an atheist or to believe in evolution. This shouldn’t surprise us considering America’s school children have been indoctrinated with the Big Bang Theory and Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution in textbooks for many years now. A book titled “Convicted” by Brad Harrub, Ph.D. has been a great help to my study on Christian evidences, and so much of my information in this article will come from his writings.
One important thing to remember when discussing creation versus evolution is this. No one has ever proven that non-living matter can evolve from nothing. And certainly no one has proven that life can evolve from non-living matter. Therefore, something (or someone) had to have always been there for anything to be created. And that someone is God.
The Bible has proven itself many times over as reliable in the areas of history and geography. William Mitchell Ramsay was a Bible skeptic who lived in 1851-1939. He set out to discredit the New Testament book of Acts which mentions 32 countries, nine Mediterranean islands, 54 cities, and is packed with geographical details. But in every circumstance in which Ramsay was able to check, Luke, the author of Acts, got it right. In fact, the Bible has never been proven wrong on anything. That’s likely why it’s the bestselling book of all time.
Evolutionists insist creation took place billions of years ago. They push this view so there will be enough time to theorize that mankind evolved three-million years ago from non-living matter, then from amoeba, worms, reptiles, lower mammals and so on.
Genesis 1:1-5 says that in the beginning, God created the heavens, the earth, water, light and darkness which he called day and night. It also says there was evening and morning on the first day and every day after that. On the 2nd day came sky, day three-plants & trees, day four-sun, moon, & stars, day five-birds & fish, day six-animals and man and woman. Based on the Bible’s timeline, there’s no way the earth could be much older than 6000 years, certainly not millions or billions of years old. Besides, how could plants grow if they had to stay in the dark for millions of years waiting on the sun to be created? Is a six day creation sounding better?
We know from Genesis 1:26-27 that mankind was created in God’s image. Hebrews 2:5-7 makes the point that man was created “a little lower than the angels.” In fact, mankind is to rule over all the creatures. Last I checked, amoebas, worms, reptiles and apes weren’t fit to rule over anything. God bless you and have a great day!
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 26, 2010
I used to take it for granted that when I began a Bible study with someone that they at least believed in God, and believed in the Bible’s account of creation. Well, that hasn’t been the case for me for quite some time. In fact, these days it seems it is more fashionable than ever to doubt God word or even profess to be an atheist or to believe in evolution. This shouldn’t surprise us considering America’s school children have been indoctrinated with the Big Bang Theory and Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution in textbooks for many years now. A book titled “Convicted” by Brad Harrub, Ph.D. has been a great help to my study on Christian evidences, and so much of my information in this article will come from his writings.
One important thing to remember when discussing creation versus evolution is this. No one has ever proven that non-living matter can evolve from nothing. And certainly no one has proven that life can evolve from non-living matter. Therefore, something (or someone) had to have always been there for anything to be created. And that someone is God.
The Bible has proven itself many times over as reliable in the areas of history and geography. William Mitchell Ramsay was a Bible skeptic who lived in 1851-1939. He set out to discredit the New Testament book of Acts which mentions 32 countries, nine Mediterranean islands, 54 cities, and is packed with geographical details. But in every circumstance in which Ramsay was able to check, Luke, the author of Acts, got it right. In fact, the Bible has never been proven wrong on anything. That’s likely why it’s the bestselling book of all time.
Evolutionists insist creation took place billions of years ago. They push this view so there will be enough time to theorize that mankind evolved three-million years ago from non-living matter, then from amoeba, worms, reptiles, lower mammals and so on.
Genesis 1:1-5 says that in the beginning, God created the heavens, the earth, water, light and darkness which he called day and night. It also says there was evening and morning on the first day and every day after that. On the 2nd day came sky, day three-plants & trees, day four-sun, moon, & stars, day five-birds & fish, day six-animals and man and woman. Based on the Bible’s timeline, there’s no way the earth could be much older than 6000 years, certainly not millions or billions of years old. Besides, how could plants grow if they had to stay in the dark for millions of years waiting on the sun to be created? Is a six day creation sounding better?
We know from Genesis 1:26-27 that mankind was created in God’s image. Hebrews 2:5-7 makes the point that man was created “a little lower than the angels.” In fact, mankind is to rule over all the creatures. Last I checked, amoebas, worms, reptiles and apes weren’t fit to rule over anything. God bless you and have a great day!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Bible principles hold key to quality of life
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 19, 2010
Since I love chips and salsa, I didn’t think I would have any problem taste testing just one single hot pepper. Well, I was wrong. Evidently, there was a reason someone dropped off a full bag of peppers at the church recently. I’m guessing it was because they were too hot to eat! And since they didn’t come with directions or a warning label, I cut one pepper into pieces, put one bit into my mouth and began to chew then quickly realized I had made a BAD mistake. In fact, my lips and tongue were on fire for the better part of an hour despite the ice cubes and water.
Too bad our lips and tongues don’t have that reaction when we gossip, curse, or use our mouths as weapons. The world would no doubt be a better place to live without the levels of profanity we have these days in TV, movies, and in real life.
James 3:7-8 says, “All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
You see, a man’s tongue can only be tamed when God’s Spirit dwells inside him. Without a relationship to God, the fruits of the Spirit do not grow inside us. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are qualities that only obedient Christians can have to the fullest. God’s word is how we understand what God expects of his children.
I saw a quote this week that stated an interesting irony, “Our children are discouraged from reading the Bible in school, but they are encouraged to read it in prison.” Thank goodness this does not describe Fort Gibson.
When I read reports about how schools in other parts of the nation forbid students to read the Bible at school, it makes me even more appreciative of our school system here in Fort Gibson. Our town definitely enjoys a quality of life that other places just don’t have. The importance our town places on God and character education has a huge impact on the moral fiber of Fort Gibson.
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him (Hebrews 11:6).”
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 19, 2010
Since I love chips and salsa, I didn’t think I would have any problem taste testing just one single hot pepper. Well, I was wrong. Evidently, there was a reason someone dropped off a full bag of peppers at the church recently. I’m guessing it was because they were too hot to eat! And since they didn’t come with directions or a warning label, I cut one pepper into pieces, put one bit into my mouth and began to chew then quickly realized I had made a BAD mistake. In fact, my lips and tongue were on fire for the better part of an hour despite the ice cubes and water.
Too bad our lips and tongues don’t have that reaction when we gossip, curse, or use our mouths as weapons. The world would no doubt be a better place to live without the levels of profanity we have these days in TV, movies, and in real life.
James 3:7-8 says, “All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
You see, a man’s tongue can only be tamed when God’s Spirit dwells inside him. Without a relationship to God, the fruits of the Spirit do not grow inside us. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are qualities that only obedient Christians can have to the fullest. God’s word is how we understand what God expects of his children.
I saw a quote this week that stated an interesting irony, “Our children are discouraged from reading the Bible in school, but they are encouraged to read it in prison.” Thank goodness this does not describe Fort Gibson.
When I read reports about how schools in other parts of the nation forbid students to read the Bible at school, it makes me even more appreciative of our school system here in Fort Gibson. Our town definitely enjoys a quality of life that other places just don’t have. The importance our town places on God and character education has a huge impact on the moral fiber of Fort Gibson.
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him (Hebrews 11:6).”
Friday, October 08, 2010
Taking a fresh look the Creator
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 12, 2010
Who are we supposed to believe anyway? As I watched a world news report the other day, it focused on a crystal cave in Mexico that scientists say is 500-million years old. The cave is quite impressive. But is it really that old?
Between Hollywood, textbooks and science museums, an entire culture if not an entire world has bought into this so-called pre-historic idea. What does that mean anyway? How can there be anything before history?
The Bible gives a pretty straight forward timeline of how long it took God to create the heavens and the earth and all that is in it. Six days. He rested on the seventh day. Then, when you add up the length of time people of the Bible lived, 6000 years is a more accurate picture for the age of the earth and mankind. Yes, six-thousand years. That’s it.
But how could this be? After all, just look at natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon. Could it really be that young? Yes. Just think about how quickly such a tremendous amount of pressure and devastation could have taken place courtesy of a worldwide flood.
And as for evolution, just how many supposed “missing links” do we have to endure hearing about. One after another, these man-ape models have turned out to be hoaxes. They’ve been created alright, just not by God, but instead by men using a vivid imagination along with old teeth and bones of animals like pigs and donkeys.
Seems it takes a whole lot more faith to believe in evolution and pre-historic notions than it does to agree with the Bible’s account of creation.
There’s really no reason why a Christian can’t be a scientist. I read recently that 40-percent of scientists are Christians. The Bible spoke of many things long before science accepted them as fact. The Bible described the water-cycle long before scientists did. The Bible also described the earth as round and floating even before a flat earth had been disproven. The Bible also agrees with astronomers today who say that stars cannot be numbered even though early star gazers had estimated there to be only about a thousand stars. The Bible also had it right on matters of cleanliness and disease long before the importance of hand washing had been discovered. And the Bible talked about trenches and springs under the surface of the ocean long before they had been discovered.
Our God is truly amazing. His word hasn’t been wrong about anything yet including history, geography, and science. Won’t you trust Him today?
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 12, 2010
Who are we supposed to believe anyway? As I watched a world news report the other day, it focused on a crystal cave in Mexico that scientists say is 500-million years old. The cave is quite impressive. But is it really that old?
Between Hollywood, textbooks and science museums, an entire culture if not an entire world has bought into this so-called pre-historic idea. What does that mean anyway? How can there be anything before history?
The Bible gives a pretty straight forward timeline of how long it took God to create the heavens and the earth and all that is in it. Six days. He rested on the seventh day. Then, when you add up the length of time people of the Bible lived, 6000 years is a more accurate picture for the age of the earth and mankind. Yes, six-thousand years. That’s it.
But how could this be? After all, just look at natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon. Could it really be that young? Yes. Just think about how quickly such a tremendous amount of pressure and devastation could have taken place courtesy of a worldwide flood.
And as for evolution, just how many supposed “missing links” do we have to endure hearing about. One after another, these man-ape models have turned out to be hoaxes. They’ve been created alright, just not by God, but instead by men using a vivid imagination along with old teeth and bones of animals like pigs and donkeys.
Seems it takes a whole lot more faith to believe in evolution and pre-historic notions than it does to agree with the Bible’s account of creation.
There’s really no reason why a Christian can’t be a scientist. I read recently that 40-percent of scientists are Christians. The Bible spoke of many things long before science accepted them as fact. The Bible described the water-cycle long before scientists did. The Bible also described the earth as round and floating even before a flat earth had been disproven. The Bible also agrees with astronomers today who say that stars cannot be numbered even though early star gazers had estimated there to be only about a thousand stars. The Bible also had it right on matters of cleanliness and disease long before the importance of hand washing had been discovered. And the Bible talked about trenches and springs under the surface of the ocean long before they had been discovered.
Our God is truly amazing. His word hasn’t been wrong about anything yet including history, geography, and science. Won’t you trust Him today?
Saturday, October 02, 2010
The greatest homecoming of all is still to come
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 5, 2010
Homecoming weekend here in Fort Gibson was quite spectacular. The weather was perfect, the school spirit was “over the top”, the parade featured a long line of class floats as well as an impressive cast of queens and their kings.
Every parent and grandparent along the parade route, in the fieldhouse, and in the stands before the game were no doubt proud as punch of their child. I know I was. My daughter, Ashton, is this year’s “Drama Queen”. Hee hee. And thanks to Murrys Nissan, I was able to cart her and her king, Austin Adamson, down the parade route in a new 370Z Convertible Touring Roadster. Wow! Just getting to drive that car for the day made my year a lot more memorable!
Spiritually, the idea of homecoming is central to the very existence of every Christian. Some of my favorite hymns are “Here We Are But Straying Pilgrims”, the old spiritual “Poor Wayfaring Stranger”, and of course “To Canaan’s Land” and “I’ll Fly Away.”
Each of those songs, and many more remind us that our time here on earth is only a very small piece of our life overall. One day, there will be a homecoming like none other. That will be the day that God calls all of his faithful home to heaven.
When Jesus left this earth, his disciples gazed at his ascension until a cloud hid him from their sight. That’s when two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven (Acts 1:11)."
Can you even imagine what that day will be like? Just think of all the things that consume our minds with worry, heartache, and depression here on earth. Just think of all the physical, emotional, and mental aches, pains, frustration, and illnesses that plague so many. The fact is, we as Christians who stay faithful in spite of worldly persecution have a promise that was inspired by God and written down by John two-thousand years ago. Revelation 7:17 says, “For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
The apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:20 that our citizenship is in heaven, and that Jesus “…will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.”
May God bless everyone who bears the name Christian, on the journey through this life towards the greatest homecoming of all.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
October 5, 2010
Homecoming weekend here in Fort Gibson was quite spectacular. The weather was perfect, the school spirit was “over the top”, the parade featured a long line of class floats as well as an impressive cast of queens and their kings.
Every parent and grandparent along the parade route, in the fieldhouse, and in the stands before the game were no doubt proud as punch of their child. I know I was. My daughter, Ashton, is this year’s “Drama Queen”. Hee hee. And thanks to Murrys Nissan, I was able to cart her and her king, Austin Adamson, down the parade route in a new 370Z Convertible Touring Roadster. Wow! Just getting to drive that car for the day made my year a lot more memorable!
Spiritually, the idea of homecoming is central to the very existence of every Christian. Some of my favorite hymns are “Here We Are But Straying Pilgrims”, the old spiritual “Poor Wayfaring Stranger”, and of course “To Canaan’s Land” and “I’ll Fly Away.”
Each of those songs, and many more remind us that our time here on earth is only a very small piece of our life overall. One day, there will be a homecoming like none other. That will be the day that God calls all of his faithful home to heaven.
When Jesus left this earth, his disciples gazed at his ascension until a cloud hid him from their sight. That’s when two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven (Acts 1:11)."
Can you even imagine what that day will be like? Just think of all the things that consume our minds with worry, heartache, and depression here on earth. Just think of all the physical, emotional, and mental aches, pains, frustration, and illnesses that plague so many. The fact is, we as Christians who stay faithful in spite of worldly persecution have a promise that was inspired by God and written down by John two-thousand years ago. Revelation 7:17 says, “For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
The apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:20 that our citizenship is in heaven, and that Jesus “…will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.”
May God bless everyone who bears the name Christian, on the journey through this life towards the greatest homecoming of all.
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