Above the Sun: Let Your Light Shine

by Barrett Vanlandingham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

March 24, 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Above the Sun: Be Compelled by Christ’s Love

by Barrett Vanlandingham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Above the Sun: The name of Jesus fills our heart

by Barrett Vanlandingham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Name I love to hear is Jesus.

          He’s our King! Have a great week!

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

by Barrett Vanlandingham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Above the Sun: God’s Greatness in our weakness

by Barrett Vanlandingham

March 3, 2019 (original version, November 2, 2006)

          "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." When God said those words to the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9, that is probably not the response Paul was hoping for when he asked God to take away his thorn in the flesh. Nevertheless, the very next verse says that Paul learned to delight in life’s difficulties for the sake of Christ.

          None of us likes to feel as though we are weak or lowly, but God assures us that He can use any willing vessel. This was a very important message that Paul was bringing to the church at Corinth beginning in 1 Corinthians 1:26. In the 1st century when social classes were emphasized to the extreme, Paul’s message was one of hope and comfort. You see, our God is mightier than any political leader, any warrior, any person of wealth, and any social class.    

          The job of being God or of having ultimate power is already taken by our Lord. There are no job openings in the Blessed Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. However, God does want to work in our lives, and He desires a relationship with us as we faithfully serve Him in our worship, and as we serve others to His glory. The fact that we have things wrong with us physically, emotionally, or any other way just makes it more obvious that great things are being accomplished because of God. He has always worked through imperfect people and imperfect circumstances:

Exodus 4:10 Moses had “faltering lips” but God used his brother Aaron to speak Moses’ words (from God) in the presence of Pharaoh. This resulted in the release of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery.

Judges 6:14-17 God used Gideon and only 300 soldiers to defeat 120-thousand Midianites, even though Gideon’s clan of Manasseh was the weakest, and he was the least in the family.

Mark 14:66-72 Peter denied that he even knew Jesus. But later, God used a repentant Peter to preach the first gospel sermon at Pentecost.

1 Corinthians 2:1-5 Paul did not speak with eloquence or even with wise or persuasive words, yet God used him to write half of the New Testament, and to bring unbelievers to Christ in spite of his previous life as a persecutor of Christians (Acts 9).

          In living our faith journey, it is important to remember that each of us has been given special talents to use for God (Ephesians 4:11).

          God wants us to be confident that He can use us to accomplish exactly what is needed, even when we feel we have nothing to offer. Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Pirate Christians just have it all wrong

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 24, 2019 (original version, September 21, 2006)

          “We are the pirates, we don’t do anything. We just stay at home, and lie around.

And if you ask us, to do anything, we’ll just tell you, we don’t do anything.”

          You may have heard those silly, non-sensical lyrics in a VeggieTales movie or from the Christian band Relient K. The song is about the attitude of pirate want-to-be’s who are so lazy, they’ve never actually sailed anywhere. They just lie around talking about all the things they’ve never done.

          In 2 Thessalonians 3:6, the apostle Paul says, "In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.”

          Why does Paul say this? It’s because Christians are not supposed to lie around and do nothing. “We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies” (2 Thes. 3:11). Idleness leads nowhere, and is more likely than not to drag down those with good character (1 Cor. 15:33).

          Ephesians 4:15-16 says, "Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."

          Our time will be filled with something. The devil wins if we willingly sin, or even if we do nothing at all to serve Christ. In Colossians 4, Paul tells Christians to devote themselves to prayer so that doors may be opened for the gospel to be proclaimed clearly. Prayer helps us stay in the right frame of mind to become more servant hearted. It helps us to practice pure speech, and it helps us to read and apply God’s word in our daily lives.

          In some of Jesus’ final words on earth, He asked us to "Go" and make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to obey Christ’s commands. Then He makes this promise: "And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age."

          The example Jesus set for us while he was here was one of action, not idleness. His followers in the first century were even willing to die for him when told to stop obeying Jesus, or die. Commitment and action should be seen in all Christians as we continue to work out our salvation (Philippians 2:12-13). Today, let’s all pray for opportunities to let God work through us as we honor Him with our lives.

Above the Sun: Jesus Blessed Jesus

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 17, 2019 (original version, August 24, 2006)

          If you are a music lover like me, you occasionally run across a song that strikes a feel good chord in your inner being, and maybe helps your day start off on the right note so to speak.

          I have a lot of favorites from various genres, but for me, one of the most encouraging songs is an old hymn called “The Great Physician.” It has four inspiring verses, each ending with the words: “Sweetest carol ever sung. Jesus, blessed Jesus.”  These great words were penned by William Hunter in 1859.

          There are many reasons to call Jesus blessed. He has ultimate power, but yet He can relate to each one of us no matter our circumstances. Jesus understands. No matter what our illness, aches, or pains. He truly is the Great Physician. He celebrates with us and cries with us, because He lived for us, died for us, and was raised for us! (Eph.1:18-20) He can also heal, console, guide, and offer heaven to those who trust and obey.

          Jesus said, "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed” (Luke 4:18).

          In this passage, there is a link between God’s Spirit living in us, and our willingness as Christians to have a servant-heart like that of Jesus Christ. It is that servant-heart that looks out for the well-being of those in difficult circumstances.

          Think about where Jesus was before He came to earth. Difficult to imagine, isn’t it? (John 1:1) But for Christ, the Son of God, to leave His home in heaven to come and live with the likes of us for 33-years, knowing we would eventually crucify Him (Isaiah 53), it is hard to comprehend the love He must have felt for us, and the never-ending selflessness He must have possessed in order to follow through with His decision to save us?  

          His power fed, healed, and saved people by the thousands in the first century even though his actions and results ran counter to worldly logic. In that regard, not a lot has changed in 2000 years, including Jesus. We can depend on Him as a constant to guide us safely home during our darkest moments, and even when our culture attempts to sell us temporary happiness. He is truly the Great Physician, and will always be Jesus, Blessed Jesus. Love Him today, serve Him today, obey Him today, and live with Him forever.

          Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Heaven rejoices when we make good choices

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 10, 2019 (original version January 12, 2006)

          Hallelujah! There are well over 300 references to the words joy and rejoice in the Bible. And why wouldn’t there be? Galatians 5:22-23 says joy is a quality of the Holy Spirit. Luke says the gift of the Holy Spirit dwells inside every baptized believer (Acts 2:38). Joy is not only a blessing for those who walk with God on this side of eternity, but our actions can also cause joy in heaven.

          Luke 15 tells three parables that end in rejoicing when someone turns from the ways of the world, and instead chooses to walk with God. This process of turning to God is called repentance. It’s a lifestyle that absolutely matters, and brings joy on earth and in heaven. Even when we feel that no one cares if we make good choices, rejoicing takes place on a scale that we cannot imagine. Jesus said, “There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10). So who besides angels are the presence of angels?  God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. 

          And as if that were not enough, the writer of Hebrews tells us we are surrounded by generations of faithful men and women. They act as a great cloud of witnesses to encourage us to throw off sin and run a strong race, imitating our Savior who experienced joy in spite of the cross (Hebrews 12:1-3).  

          In the song “How Great Thou Art” there is a line that says, “When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation.” The description is of the greatest joy-filled standing ovation of all time, when Christ comes to take us home. That will be a day to experience, when we get to express to Jesus, face to face, our gratitude for His grace. But for thousands of years now, Christians who say yes to God and no to the devil have already been receiving thunderous applause from all who dwell in heaven.

          Now, imagine God looking at Jesus and saying, “It’s time, let’s go bring’em home.” What a glorious day that will be!

          Let’s all make plans to rejoice on that day, along with all those who are called to our heavenly home.  Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Good to the Last Drop... Jesus

by Barrett Vanlandingham

February 3, 2019 (original version Feb 22, 2007)

          Just about anybody can write a commercial. But the true test of a good commercial is whether people remember it years later.

          For instance, Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes: “They’re_____.”   Or how about the phrase that the De Beers jewelry company coined in 1947, “A diamond is________.”  Nike: “Just_____.”  Energizer: “It keeps _____ & _____ & ______.”  KFC: “It’s finger ____  _____.”  I will let you fill in the blanks.

          As a fan of all things coffee, one of my favorites is Maxwell House’s slogan: “Good to the last drop.”  This old jingle from 1915 wafts its way through my mind from time to time like the aroma from my never empty coffee cup I keep on a table near my desk (so I don’t spill it).

          Things that interest us filter-in to our lives and often have a single origin, or at least a common ground.  Coffee and Jesus are that for me.  My daughter owns a business called Landing Coffee Company. So, for me, a fresh pot of coffee made with beans that Gracie roasted means even more to me than Maxwell House, Cain’s, Folgers, and Starbucks combined.

          Spiritually speaking, Jesus is my favorite brew. In our world today, there are so many uncertainties. But no matter how confused our culture becomes, I know I can always depend on Jesus.

          You never have to wonder whether Jesus has changed his mind on anything. The answer is always no. He is the ultimate constant in the life of every Christian. He is an eternal compass because he always points us in the right direction. You never have to wonder whether he still loves us. The answer is always yes. His roast date is always fresh and He is always pulling for us. In coffee talk, Jesus is:
1) The most satisfying blend. He is the Savior to all kinds of people.
2) The perfect roast. He stayed on earth long enough to experience every temptation.
3) The richest aroma. Just one whiff and your eyes are opened to a whole new life.
4) The smoothest brew. He always pulls through, never changes, always tastes the same.
5) The boldest flavor. He lived with confidence and wants us to do the same.
6) The best ground. His word gives us everything we need. Not too much; not too little.

          If you’re not a coffee drinker, thanks anyway for indulging in this little press of words I have extracted to taste and savor the good good qualities of Jesus. No matter what any of us are pouring over this week in our daily grind, our cup never has to be less than half full. No matter if our days are light or dark, Jesus can help us press through one drip at a time.

          Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Hearing works best when followed by obedience

Above the Sun: Hearing works best when followed by obedience

by Barrett Vanlandingham

January 27, 2019 (originally March 29, 2007)

            Oklahoma has hundreds of small towns that serve as wonderful places to live and raise families. Still, as great as life is here, we are not exempt from the devil’s traps. This is why it will always be of greatest importance to pay close attention to what God is trying to tell us.

            In a lost and broken world where the prince of this world (aka: the prince of darkness) thrives on alcohol abuse, gambling addictions, marital unfaithfulness, dishonesty, the love of money, cultural peer pressure, or maybe spending too much time with our hobbies, God’s message to us is easy to ignore.

            Most of us have faced or currently face spiritual challenges and temptations that seem larger than life. Many times, it is difficult to answer the question of “Who do we listen to?” But getting the answer right is crucial to our quality of life here, as well as our eternal destiny.

            In Daniel 3, the prophet tells about an event that happened in about 607 B.C.

King Nebuchadnezzar set up an image of gold, ninety feet high and nine feet wide.

            The King’s order? Everyone in Babylon must worship the great image everytime the king’s royal music was played throughout the land. The king expected everyone, including Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who had been taken captive from Jerusalem to serve in the king’s palace, to bow down to the golden image.

            The consequences? For those who didn’t bow down, they would immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace.

            The problem? (at least for those who were opposed to God) was that those three young men being held captive for service to the king, were dedicated to God. They would not bow down to the golden image when they heard the sounds of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and other music.

            The outcome? As is always the case, God’s people won! Yes, the three were thrown into the fire, but God saved them because of their commitment.

            The message for us today? Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would want us to know that no matter what our culture is telling us, siding with God is always best even when it seems everyone else is doing life another way. Haven’t we all been in situations where obeying God was difficult?

            In the New Testament, Jesus told the parable of the sower. He ended by saying, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Mark 4:1-9).

            Having ears is a common thing. But Jesus was reminding his listeners that ears are only a benefit when we use them to help us in our spiritual journey.

            Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Learning to Trust God is a process

Above the Sun: Learning to trust God is a process
by Barrett Vanlandingham (orig. September 20, 2007)
January 20, 2019

          Even though social media is often a hotbed of conflict that can be very frustrating to read, it is also a treasure chest for those of us who try to keep our finger on the pulse of what people are thinking.

          One young person wrote: “I love God, I really do. I will never stop loving him. Do I trust him? That is where I am having a problem. I want to trust. I try so hard to not question. In the end I am only human.”

          Wow, you talk about an example of “out of the mouths of babes.”  Isn’t that something we all struggle with? Trusting in the Lord is difficult because just we don't understand everything like we will when we get to heaven. We know life on earth is nothing compared to the joys of heaven, but because we’re human we really cannot comprehend our reward in relation to our struggles.

          Solomon told us God will make our paths straight if we trust God and do things His way (Proverbs 3:5-6). That’s nice to know, but still hard to do.  Many great men and women of the Bible had the same problem: 
1) Esther was afraid the king would kill her if she stood up for God's chosen people. 
2) Gideon always wanted God to give him a sign that He was really with him.
3) Peter actually walked on water but then sank when he took his eyes off Jesus.
4) Sarah and Abraham laughed when God told them they would have a son at age 90 and 100.
5) Moses tried to talk God out of choosing him to lead the people out of Egypt.
6) Thomas knew Jesus, and still doubted the Lord’s identity.
          The list goes on. Don't you think Noah probably had some doubts as he built an ark for 100-years while people laughed at him? The people had never even experienced rain, and Noah was telling them the earth would be flooded.

          Stories like these are written to help grow our faith (John 20:30-32). To this day, God places a rainbow in the sky to remind us that He always keeps his promises (Genesis 9:16). God is glorified in our weaknesses. It is only when we acknowledge dependence on God that we are at our strongest, spiritually.

          Everyday, we should look for ways that God takes care of us, and thank Him. God is good and loyal to us, even when we're not. He is worthy to be praised. He is worthy of our respect and loyalty. The writer of 1 John 3:2 tells us that someday, everything will make sense.

          “What we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.”

          Have a great week!

Above the Sun: The Bible tells us how to get to heaven (part 1)

January 6, 2019

by Barrett Vanlandingham

Your chances of being a guest in someone’s house increase if you know the homeowner. Generally speaking, they would invite you to their house. Then, you would follow directions to arrive there successfully. But if for some reason you still can't get there on your own, you would call them and they would come get you.

As a Christian, you can know you are going to heaven because God loved you enough to send his Son to die for you as the ultimate sacrifice for your sins (ref: John 3:16). The apostle Paul said, “For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:13-14).

          In John 10:9-11, Jesus calls himself the Good Shepherd. He uses a figure of speech to reassure his followers (sheep) that he loves and protects them spiritually, and in fact would lay down his life for them so they could live eternally in heaven.

          The writer of Hebrews 12:2 says, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God.”

          This passage tells us we cannot be perfect, but we can perfectly carry out God’s plan of salvation by partnering with Jesus who IS the author and perfecter of our faith.

          Since God created mankind, He knows that everyone sins and falls short of where we need to be spiritually. That was the message Paul wrote in Romans 3:23-24, and added that we “are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

          We just have to make sure we have a relationship with Christ Jesus since He said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Here is how that is accomplished:

1) Hear God’s word, (Rom. 10:17; John 5:24)

2) Believe that Jesus is God’s son (Acts 16:30-34)

3) Repent or turn from worldly ways, (Luke 13:3-5, Acts 2:38; James 1:21-22)

4) Confess with our mouth and attitude what we believe about Jesus (Matthew 10:32-33; 2 Tim. 2:19)

5) Baptism (immersion) into Christ for the forgiveness of sins. (Gal. 3:26-27; Romans 6:1-11; Mark 16:16)

          No matter how much we demonstrate our faith and love for the Father by obeying Him (John 14:15), it is still God’s grace that saves us in the end (Romans 3:24). Without God’s help, we could not find our way to heaven since we continue to “fall short.” The good news about God is this: “But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). Simply put, walking with God leads to heaven.

          Have a blessed week!

Above the Sun: The New Year Is Full of Blessed Assurances

December 30, 2018

by Barrett Vanlandingham

          There is something refreshing about the thought of starting over, and in just a couple of days, 2019 begins!

What will you do with your New Year? I think most people simply want to make it count! That’s what Paul said to do (Ephesians 5:16). We should always look for opportunities to make a difference for the Lord’s kingdom. Lost souls are depending on us, and frankly, we do not know how much time we have. James 4:13-14 describes life as a vapor that vanishes after only a little while. That “little while” has an exact number that only God knows (Job 14:5, Psalm 139:16).

I love the old saying, “Preach Jesus, and if necessary use words.” In 2019, will you look for opportunities in your daily life to tell people about Jesus, or maybe show them Jesus through your attitude? What else might you consider an improved use of your time for the coming year? Will you have a conversation with God every morning before you get out of bed? Will you read the Bible all the way through, or maybe the New Testament? Will you have a more positive attitude and try to see the water glass as half full this year instead of half empty? Will you try to improve the living conditions of those you live with by doing one act of service every day that you do not normally do? Those are some of the goals I keep for myself. I usually fall short.

The Bible has a wellspring of encouraging words that every Christian needs to remember in 2019 as we partner with God in winning souls.

          “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

“Love the LORD, all his faithful people! The LORD preserves those who are true to him, but the proud he pays back in full. Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD” (Psalm 31:23-24).

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).

“And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:5).

The kind of hope that Paul, David, and Peter wrote about here is not a “wishful thinking” kind of hope, but one that we as believers and participants in Christ’s work and God’s grace can fully trust and celebrate all year long.  Have a great week!

Above the Sun: Giving to others is the real blessing

December 23, 2018

by Barrett Vanlandingham

          Sure, receiving a gift is always such a blessing, but I think most of us would agree that being able to give to others is an even better gift. Anyone who is a mature thinking human being understands this.

          I remember one time when my wife Lisa and I were in college back in the 80’s, she had been babysitting a lot at night and on weekends which really threw a kink into my plans for dating her. I did not understand why she needed to save up so much money. But when Christmas rolled around and she showed up with an Alvarez Silver Belle banjo inside a beautiful black case with a nice big red bow tied around it, I was completely blown away. It wasn’t just that I had received from her the very banjo I had wanted for so long, it was the look on her face. She obviously felt even better for giving me this present than she could have felt for anything I could have given her.  As the years have passed, I have come to realize she lives her whole life this way. Let’s just say I am pretty sure I married way out of my league.  God is good.

          The apostle Paul lived his life this way even though he constantly faced opposition, punishment, and jail time for his devotion to the teachings of Jesus. As Paul was leaving Ephesus heading for Jerusalem he not only reminded the leaders of the Ephesian church the importance of teaching people about the good news of God’s grace, but also reminded them of the blessing of giving to others.

          “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ ” (Acts 20:35).

          A friend of mine told me the other day about someone he knows who is about to worry himself sick over what to ask for this Christmas from his parents. This person is an ADULT.  At first, my friend thought his friend was stressing over what to get for someone else. But NO. It was the other way around. He was actually wringing his hands and popping his knuckles over what HE would ask for!  I am pretty sure the words gift and blessing do not apply in any way here.

          Let’s face it, some people are just better at being selfless than others. But it is a quality that can be learned by all.  And once it is learned, a selfless attitude leads to giving to others, which is truly a blessing.  Merry Christmas!

Above the Sun: Some gifts cause more misery than joy

December 16, 2018

by Barrett Vanlandingham

          As I was scrolling through my Instagram account, I saw this ad: “Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s an easy way to borrow up to $40,000.” The man in the ad was depicted as feeling stressed at first, and then after seeing what offers were available to him he looked relieved and could not contain his smile of contentment. I am going to go out on a limb here and say that having to pay back thousands of dollars is not going to help anyone feel less overwhelmed.

          I also receive a lot of emails pretending to be helpful. Just a few days ago I got one posing as Discover. They wanted me to verify some large purchases. How nice of them! It was definitely a scam. The sender said they would charge my account $1521 if I did not click the provided link, type in my account information, and let them know if these were my charges. I knew it was a fake because we had not used our card lately. Also, I hovered my mouse over the link provided, and the address that popped up was not even affiliated with Discover. Also, it was not addressed to me, and it did not include any part of my account number. I just hit delete. It is always safer to check your online accounts directly instead of going through email links.

          One of my daughters was also targeted recently through phone calls and letters not long after she started a new coffee catering business. She had consulted with state and local agencies to make sure she was doing everything by the book. So, when she received calls that told her she was required to purchase a set of laminated posters and a book containing labor laws, and then post them in her business, she did it because they said it would keep her out of trouble with the law. But after doing a little investigating, she discovered that her $600 purchase of these posters from a company called Personnel Concepts is not required. They agreed to give her a full refund. I guess we will see.

          While there are a lot of false and deceptive messages out there in this broken world, there is one place we can turn and know that truth is present. The Bible. It contains God’s inspired word. It is all we need (2 Timothy 2:15). Its time tested messages are just as relevant now as ever. Its truths become more credible with each passing generation as historical, geographical, and scientific discoveries continue to uphold the stories told in the combined 66 books we call the Bible. God’s word is a gift that continues to change lives for the better.

          Have a great week!