The Good Samerican…July 14th

Jesus tells the story of a man who was traveling on the road to Jericho only to be ‘mugged’ by highway robbers. Being stripped of all he had and left for dead (literally) the man is at the mercy of those who pass by as they too travel the road. You know how the parable goes and the cast of characters. And most likely you’ve considered which one you would be.

Most would like to say that in the circumstances described in Christ’s parable we’d follow the lead of the man from Samaria. But have you considered what it would take to truly help someone who is broken and bleeding? Would you walk across the road for your neighbor or are you ‘too busy?’ Here in America we live a good life and pretty much ‘want for nothing.’ We know lots of good American’s, but it might take some uncomfortable steps if we are to act like the good Samaritan.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, July 14, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah” -3

Pick up your bible and turn to Psalm chapter 148. This song we’ll be singing is indeed a ‘psalm’ and is almost a word-for-word account from the chapter. From the hills and mountains to the beast and cattle, we sing this song of praise. Whether you see yourself as young man or a maiden we must all be praising God. Don’t let the birds that in the heavens fly out sing your praise!

“For the Beauty of the Earth” – 67

Consider this first verse, “For the beauty of the earth, for the beauty of the skies, for the love which from our birth over and around us lies: Lord of all to Thee we raise this our sacrifice of praise.” Do you think this praise is for our physical birth or our spiritual birth? The love that surrounds us (over and above) comes from God. Makes you think doesn’t it?

“I Sing Praises” – 97

A ‘contemporary song’ that is simple in verse. We’ll conclude this medley of ‘praise songs because our God’s name, ‘…is great and greatly to be praised.’ Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah…

“How Deep the Father’s Love” – no book

We’ll turn our minds to the cross and Christ sacrifice using this contemporary song reminding us of the love of God. The last verse is one of striking value to me…“I will not boast in anything; no gifts no power no wisdom. But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection…” Quoting Paul in Galatians 6:14 “…may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ…”

“I’ll Live for Him” – 553

Between the bread and the fruit of the vine we’ll softly sing the third (often omitted) verse. “O Thou who died on Calvary…” Many have missed the point of emotion in our songs. We don’t sing to serve ourselves or those who are listening, we sing to glorify and edify the family of God. In my humble opinion, the heart is more important than the voice.

“Sweet Adoration” – 253

Where do you turn for comfort in times of trouble? How do face the frustrations of this world and temptations that seem to be endless? Try this…come to the Savior, give Him your heart-felt praise and adoration. As you give your all to adoration, little is left for focusing on your trials. Admiration and adoration are essential elements when we recognize our Savior.

“To Love Someone More Dearly” – 636

We all have a job to do in this life. Some are willing to immerse themselves wholly into their work. Others just ‘get the job done.’ But there is one task we need to make a priority in our life; to love someone more dearly! To help a wandering child who’s lost or even just to ponder over something that is good and worthy of our time. Our task might be as simple as praying or smiling. The man from Samaria would have sung this song with full conviction.

“A Beautiful Life” – 570

This is a strong spiritual song with a full bass lead in the chorus. But what do we mean, ‘…life’s evening sun is sinking low…’, are we really talking about death in this upbeat, ‘exciting to sing’ song? Certainly, when life is over, we will meet our Creator and be held accountable for our deeds. Are you one who is trying to lift a traveler’s load? As you strive to be a child of God, remember, your ‘…life must shine along the way.’

“Wonderful Story of Love” – 286

Not a typical invitation song, but when you listen to what we’re saying I think you’ll agree. “Sinner, O won’t you believe it (the wonderful story of love)?” Through His love, the wonderful story of love, Jesus continues to call us to come to Him, since the dawn of creation even until today.

“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642

I’ve always enjoyed this old spiritual song about shining our light to the lost world. The imagine is clear as we consider the responsible we have in reaching out to those who are bruised and bleeding. The traveler on the road or the sailor on the sea are bound to face difficult times. How willing are we to shine our light, walk across the path and offer them a Savior! The good Samaritan did!

1, July 9, 20131, June 19, 2013

Do We Want More? (part 2)

Oliver is a young, orphan boy who, at the tender age of nine, lives each day with other orphans at the ‘workhouse.’ His daily routine is much like every boy in the orphanage. He isn’t a trouble maker, but he does something no one else is willing to do. After finishing his bowl of gruel (porridge), with a trembling hand, he returns to food line and utters the famous line, “Please Sir, I want some more…”

Charles Dickens authors this literally piece and many have adapted Oliver Twist to their own version of orphans and the homeless. The story is an interesting one, but our focus is centered on the words of this fictitious nine-year old, “…I want some more.” If we’re truthful with ourselves we would admit that each of us, in some form or fashion want more. But as we’ve studied previous, what more do we want?

Let’s continue the study of the hymn written and composed by Philip Bliss in 1873. Interestingly enough, this song was penned less than 35 years after Dickens wrote Oliver Twist. As you might remember, we sing the word ‘more’ twenty-four (24) times during the course of song “More Holiness Give Me”. Let’s continue our deeper examination of what more we could possibly be aspiring toward.

In verse two we sing (and seek); more gratitude, more trust, more pride and more hope . More tears, more pain, more meekness and more praise. One by one we consider what are we asking God to give us ‘more’ of:

1) More gratitude give me… Our prayers are often laced with thankfulness. We’re thankful for the day, the food, the good night’s rest so why ask for more thankfulness? Gratitude is synonymous with thankfulness but often we ramble out our prayer of thanks without processing why we have what we have. God has given us EVERYTHING! For that alone we should have gratitude. Personally, I don’t get tired of hearing thank you from my children. Do you suppose God is the same?

2) More trust in the Lord… David wrote in Psalm 20:7, “Some boast (trust) in chariots and some in horses, But we will boast (trust) in the name of the Lord, our God.” With some much self-proclaimed wisdom, our culture and this present generation has come to trust in self. So much has been accomplished and achieved during the last 50 years we have become masters in our own right. What do we trust? Who do we trust? Would that we prayer for more trust in the Lord. “…the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.”

3) More pride in His glory. Each of us knows the swell of pride we feel when our team is victorious. We take pride in knowing we have succeeded in this task or that accomplishment. But more pride in HIS glory means I take pride in giving God glory. We humble ourselves and take pride in knowing our God, He is Alive.

4) More hope in His word. The word “hope” can mean to long for something, wish for it; or it can mean trust or confidence. Our hope in God’s word is not to wish for it to be what it claims to be, but to put our trust and our confidence in His word. You’ll remember we sang that we pray for more trust in the Lord (previous line), and now we turn our prayer to be confident (hope) in His word!

5) More tears for His sorrows. Each week we gather and remember the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. With the Lord’s Supper we keep Jesus’ sacrifice every in our minds and hearts. But be careful that this time doesn’t become routine. Remember the words of Isaiah (chapter 53) when he prophesy’s about the Messiah saying, “…He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief…” (KJV) Do we weep when we consider His death? We need more tears for His sorrows.

6) More pain at His grief. Again, looking to Isaiah 53 we are reminded of His grief. As we sing this hymn we are asking that we feel the pain, as we shed the tears, for our Savior’s grief. Undoubtedly you’ve said something like, “That breaks my heart!” Simply an expression of pain for someone’s grief. Does Jesus’ suffering (grief) break your heart?

7) More meekness in trial. My mind immediately goes to the book of Matthew and the words of Jesus in the 5th chapter, “…whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (vs. 39) But we shouldn’t be surprised when we consider what Jesus said just a few sentences earlier (vs. 5), “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” When someone slaps you down (trials), are you fighting mad…or meekly enduring?

8) More praise for relief. In baseball there is a position known as the ‘relief pitcher.’ The man who take over for the ‘starting’ pitcher. He may be there because the starter was injured or perhaps just exhausted. Either way, there is a relief for the starter. In the sport of baseball the relief pitcher isn’t always praised. He may fail to ‘provide’ the relief he was called to deliver. But in the case of Jesus, He is our answer to the injury and exhaustion we feel on a daily basis. He is our relief, our salvation, and He never fails. When we understand and accept Him in that way, we’ll know that we need to give Him more praise for our salvation…He is our relief…

We’ll continue this song in later weeks, but until that time take a look at the last verse of this song; there are still eight more…’mores’.

1, July 6, 20131, July 6, 2013

What Will We See in Heaven?…July 7th

Many think of heaven in terms as they remember from the book of Revelation, specifically chapter 21. Images come to mind such as, ‘the pearly gates, streets of gold and the endless day.’ The scriptures do read, “The material of the wall was jasper; and the city was pure gold…the twelve gates were twelve pearls; each one of the gates was a single pearl.” It’s true that we visualize heaven in terms as John described it.

But Sunday morning, July 7th, we’ll consider what we will see based on heavenly IDEALS such as ‘no mourning, or crying, or pain.’ After all, it was God who told John (Revelation 21:5), “Behold, I am making all things new.” Join us as we look through ‘the pearly gates.’

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, July 7, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Awesome God” -38

Do we truly hold God as an awesome God? Can we say we are honestly ‘in awe of Him?’ Be careful not to dilute the word ‘awesome’ by describing a movie or even an experience as awesome. Our God is an awesome God; Deuteronomy 10:17 and Nehemiah 1:5 are two great examples of who is awesome.

“You Are the Song that I Sing” – 238

As part of this morning’s ‘medley’ we’ll transition from singing that “…our God is an awesome God!” to praising Him as ‘the song that I sing…” Later this week, when you’re singing in the car, will you be singing about God, or are you singing world’s tunes. Perhaps we should be giving back to God our voice, our song, the very reason of our hope to Him who gave us a song to sing.

“When All of God’s Singer’s Get Home” – 859

Have you ever walked into your home after Sunday morning services and immediately caught the whiff of a roast cooking? The aroma wafts through the air and we realize there is something wonderful waiting for us. But, as we sing, ‘…the joy can’t compare with the glory up there…’ our songs of praise and encouragement should be a sweet reminder of how beautiful heaven must be. “What a song of delight in that city so bright will be wafted ‘neath heaven’s fair dome…” Like the lingering smell of roast as it drifts through the air, so is the heart-felt singing of praise to our God. “When all of God’s children get home…”; coming in the pearly gates we can anticipate, hear and almost smell what’s been cooking and what is waiting for us!

“Worthy is the Lamb” – no book

The tune from the song “Just As I Am” is used with the words to this hymn taken from the book of Revelation.
“O Holy Lamb, Thou Son of God most Holy Lord, most worthy Lord. Standing in the center of God’s throne. Oh worthy is the Lamb, the Lamb.” It’s interesting that these ‘recent’ words, taken from Revelation and written/arranged by Jeff Nelson are blended with the music of William Bradbury written long ago. Nelson penned the words 150 years after Bradbury penned the music. But John recorded the image of ‘the Lamb’ over 2000 years ago. And the singer (sinner) still bows in response…“O Lamb of God, I come!”

“Earth Holds No Treasure” – 884

Where do you put your treasures? Maybe you should ask yourself; ‘what are my treasures?’ What do you value most in this life? The most important things in our life are kept in a safe and secure location. But is this world really secure? How ‘safe’ can a safety deposit box really be? Time and storms will ravage our homes and the field can be easily flooded beyond recognition. Is this earth where we hold our treasures? Maybe we are holding on to something that’s not worth our grip? Tillet S. Teddlie says it best in the third verse of this song; “Why should I long for this world and it’s sorrows…?” Good question.

“Sweet By and By” – 878

In the sweet by and by (heaven) we trust there’s a land that is fairer than anything we’ve ever experienced. Do we know that for sure? Has anyone been there and returned with pictures of the beautiful shore? John gives us our best glimpse into that realm as we read the book of Revelation. No one has seen heaven, “but by faith we can see it afar.”

“Where the Gates Swing Outward Never” – 864

Before our lesson we’ll sing this old spiritual song about gates that don’t ‘swing outward.’ What an image that the gates of heaven (Revelation 21:25) will never close! Humbled we should considered that in ‘a few more days’ or ‘a few more years’ we’ll ‘wake to see Him for whom my (our) heart is burning…’ How many of us can honestly say we have a heart that is burning to see the Savior, a heart that is yearning to go home?

“In the Land of Fadeless Day” – 890

The chorus of this song has always brought encouragement to me; “God shall wipe away all tears…” . It echoes the words of Revelation 21:4, but continues on into the 16th verse and provides the title for this spiritual song. “The city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width…” (four square) Perhaps not a traditional invitation song, but what a great reminder that the gates of heaven (vs. 3) never close.

“Just Over in the Glory-Land” – no book

“What a joyful thought that my Lord I’ll see, just over in the glory-land; and with kindred saved there forever be, just over in the glory-land!” Kindred saved…what (who) is kindred? We don’t use that term much today, ‘kinfolk,’ but that is a term used to identify family. We are the family of God so it makes since to say we’ll go home to be with our kin when this life is over. Where is home? Just over the way…in glory-land!

1, July 1, 20131, July 1, 2013

LTC…Be Devoted

In the spring of 2009 this group of young men came together to praise God with their voices. They practiced for weeks on end to learn how to harmonize and lift before the Father several songs of praise. These boys were ‘devoted’ to giving God the glory and sought to encourage those who listened. Though the years have passed and they’ve ‘grown and moved away,’ they continue to uplift and edify God’s people with songs of praise. Take a few minutes to hear their voices and listen to them as they praise the Father. A memory from the 2009, Leadership Training for Christ.

LTC (Leadership Training for Christ) has been a constant focus for the Waterview church of Christ for more than 30 years. Students have studied, practiced and devoted months to reading the scripture, Bible bowl, singing with small groups, and song leading as well as public speaking (sermon preparation), sign language and many other areas of preparation to serve in the kingdom of God. All the while, these young people are being trained and encouraged to give God the glory.

In 2009, seventeen young men (now in college or college graduates) came together to sing 3 songs with the hope of edifying the congregation and glorifying their God. These men sang three songs, Surround Us, Lord, and a medley consisting of Poured Out Like Wine, Make Me New, Teach Me Thy Ways and I Am Mine No More. They concluded with a song taken from the text of Galatians 6:2 and Romans 12:10-13, Be Devoted.

My prayer is that you will enjoy listening to these young men as they praise God with the voice of youth. The first song, Surround Us, Lord comes from the book of Psalms, chapter 125, verse 2… “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, So the Lord surrounds His people From this time forth and forever.” When times are difficult and the way seems hard, don’t forget; the Lord surrounds His people!

The concluding song, Be Devoted, took lots of practice and work. As noted earlier, the words are taken from Galatians 6 and Romans 12. Notice how clearly this passage speaks to our relationship with each other: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”

Carry each other’s burdens
Carry each other’s burdens
And in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ

Chorus:
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
Honor one another above yourselves
Never be lacking in zeal
Keep your spiritual fervor
Keep your spiritual fervor
Serving the Lord

Love one another
Serve one another
Pray for each other
Encourage one another
And build each other up

Chorus:

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love

Thanks guys for the reminder from years gone by. My prayer is that you will stay faithful to God’s word and honor your song to be devoted in brotherly love. We are reminded by your song that we are to be poured out before the King, commit ourselves to being new (putting off the old self) and then seek to have Him teach us His ways. When we do that, we will no longer be our own. May God bless each of you and your walk with Christ.

1, June 28, 20131, June 28, 2013

An Impossible Dream…June 30th

One of my favorite, secular songs was sung by Jim Nabors in November, 1967 on the TV sitcom ‘Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.’ The song, ‘The Quest’ was originally written and sung in 1965 for the musical, Man of LaMancha. You might remember it better by the title of our lesson this Sunday morning at Waterview, ‘Impossible Dream’. But what is the Impossible Dream?

Sunday morning, June 30th, we’ll consider how the New Testament is a pattern of God’s thinking. We look into the mind of God as we read His word. But how can we duplicate that message today. What should we focus on as we strive to follow His commands, or is that…an impossible dream?

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, June 30, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“In Moments Like These” – 239

If we are honest with ourselves, there times when you feel closer to God than other times. What causes that feeling of euphoria? What gives us that emotional lift as opposed to the times when we are feeling down. Circumstances can change in our life, and like the ocean tide, our days will ebb and flow. But when you find yourself lifted up and feeling God’s love and strength, sing a song of praise. “In moments like these, I sing out a song, I sing out a love song to Jesus…”

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

This spiritual songs recalls the armor of God and the battle we Christians should be preparing for. First, we sing to admonish the congregation to join in the spiritual battle against forces of darkness. The message is poetically clear in the first verse; as soldiers we are camped next to the hills of light (heaven), but we must be ready to go to war. Our fight is against the ‘night’ lest it should overcome the glowing skies (which seems to be the current situation in our society). How should we be fighting? John Yates wrote, “…let all our strength be hurled.” Not a timid approach in this spiritual battle. But note verse 3 (missing from many of our hymnals)… “On every hand the foe we find drawn up in dread array. Let tents of ease be left behind and onward to the fray. Salvation’s helmet on each head with truth all girt about, the earth shall tremble neath our tread, and echo with our shout…” With our faith in God, we have victory!

“O Sacred Head” – 318

An old hymn remembering Christ’s death. Poetically and musically it may be a challenge, but don’t lose the message in the old English. The video (below) adds an extra verse that is not in most hymnals, but is striking none the less. Christ’s sacrifice leaves us all speechless as we consider His love. Perhaps, the second verse says it best; “What language shall I borrow to thank Thee, dearest Friend, for this Thy dying sorrow; Thy pity without end…”

“Boundless Love” – 325

The love of God, as we sing in this song, is ‘boundless.’ Defined, boundless would mean without limits. God’s love for us cannot be measured, and as we sing the second verse we’ll transition from boundless love to boundless grace. Boundless grace…because of Calvary.

“Savior, Thy Dying Love” – 667

Following the Lord’s Supper and during the passing of the collection plate we’ll sing this hymn from the 1860’s. It serves as a good reminder of the sacrifice (our Savior’s dying love). Notice the last line from the first three verses; “…some offering bring Thee now, something for Thee.”, “…some song to raise or prayer, something for Thee.” “…some wanderer sought and won, something for Thee.” But now read the last line of the fourth verse. “And when Thy face I see, my ransomed soul will be, through all eternity, something for Thee.” You give a few dollars when the collection plate comes around, but what will you give when Monday morning comes around?

“Leaning on the Everlasting Arm” – 589

We’ll sing this spiritual song of encouragement before this morning’s lesson. How can we find fellowship and joy in Christ? According to E.A. Hoffman (1887) we find fellowship while ‘leaning on the everlasting arm.’ We have peace of mind while leaning on the everlasting arm. Leaning on Jesus…safe and secure from all fear (alarms).

“Nearer, My God, to Thee” – 684

On occasion we’ll sing a non-typical ‘invitation’ song following our lesson. But this hymn to our Father is a clear call for us to draw nearer to Him. In the second verse of this hymn, notice the reference Genesis 28:11; “When he (Jacob) reached a certain place, he stopped for the night because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones there, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep.” We’ll sing, “Tho like a wanderer, the sun gone down, darkness be over me, my rest a stone; yet in my dreams I’d be nearer, my God, to Thee…” Perhaps this is more of an invitation song than we have thought…to be nearer to our God is the call we should all be responding to.

“Surround Us, Lord” – no book

Taken from Psalm 125:2, this ‘psalm’ serves as a great ‘spiritual song’ of encouragement. The singer and the listener are called to hear and understand that, “…we need to be in Your (God’s) presence.” As the mountains provide security and protection to the city of Jerusalem, so the Lord provides and protects His people. We are truly blessed to be called child of God.

1, June 25, 20131, June 25, 2013

Congregational Singing

Last week, in his article about Hymnology, Richard Dent sited 7 rules for congregational singing. Taking a deeper look into these principles might inspire us to consider how we sing on Sunday morning, and how (do) we prepare ourselves to sing.

We mentioned the book by John & Charles Wesley from the early 1700’s, “Selected Writings and Hymns”. This collection of ideas and prayers comes from the founder of Arminian Methodism, yet some of his ideas shared here speak to us today. We’ll consider the exact wording and explore it’s deeper meaning. Keep in mind, our focus concerning words of directions for congregational singing must come from the word of God.

John Wesley’s Rules for Singing

From John Wesley’s Select Hymns, 1761

1) Learn these tunes before you learn any others; afterward learn as many as you please. The encouragement here is for the reader to learn Wesley’s songs as printed in his book. We would agree with the premise to ‘Learn these tunes…’ provided the tunes are scriptural in content. If we find a psalm, hymn or spiritual song that doesn’t resonate with the truth of God’s word, exercise caution before adding it to your repertoire. Learn as many as you please is good advice. But the basis for this charge is to sing songs of praise to God. If we would do that one thing alone (sing to God) our nation would be turning more toward Him.

2) Sing them exactly as they are printed here, without altering or mending them at all; and if you have learned to sing them otherwise, unlearn it as soon as you can. Unfortunately I don’t espouse the language in this ‘rule’ for singing. Though spoken as a true musician, the lay singer will often adjust the melody line or add supporting harmony to a song. God’s instruction to us when we sing is to sing with our hearts, not our vocal cords. Often times we get caught up in the sound of it rather than focus on the heart of singing.

3) Sing all. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can. Let not a slight degree of weakness or weariness hinder you. If it is a cross to you, take it up, and you will find it a blessing. This is sound advice! ‘Sing all’ is a call for everyone to sing. Not just those who can or have the ‘best voices’, but all should be singing. Our culture seems to focus on the ‘idols’ and glamorize the talent, but when we read Colossians 3:16, the instruction is to be ‘…teaching and admonishing one another…singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.’ Paul doesn’t say, ‘if you want to,’ the command is for us to sing; and so we should, sing all!

4) Sing lustily and with a good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength. Be no more afraid of your voice now, nor more ashamed of its being heard, than when you sung the songs of Satan. Two thoughts here; be of good courage and sing lustily (powerful or strong) are a great admonition. While some refuse to sing, others sing with apathy in their voices. And yet how often do we sing out the songs of the world, but mumble or refuse to sing songs of praise? Considering this was written almost 250 years ago, I find it interesting Wesley refers to worldly songs as ‘songs of Satan.’ Can we find praise to God in secular tunes (western, rock, rap, etc)? Perhaps, since many of those musical numbers carry us away from God, then Wesley was right in saying they are songs of Satan. And yet those are the songs that are sung to establish the ‘best singers’ in our society…do we need to rethink our singing?

5) Sing modestly. Do not bawl, so as to be heard above or distinct from the rest of the congregation, that you many not destroy harmony, but strive to unite your voices together, so as to make one clear melodious sound. Almost seems like a counter to the previous rule to ‘sing lustily’, but consider the reason for singing with modesty. Do we come together to out sing each other? Are you singing tenor so others can hear you for your praise? Sopranos might have the hardest time with this ‘rule’ in that they have the lead voice. We must be aware that our songs are not for us, but for our God. Remember that we are offering ‘…a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.’ Will we offer that sacrifice with strength and power or with selfish intentions?

6) Sing in time. Whatever time is sung be sure to keep with it. Do not run before nor stay behind it; but attend close to the leading voices, and move therewith as exactly as you can; and take care not to sing too slow. This drawling way steals on all who are lazy; and it is high time to drive it out from us, and sing all our tunes just as quick as we did at first. Again, I’m not convinced this is of the utmost importance. What IS important is the encouragement to sing together. In addition, there is a clear understanding, as Paul stated in I Cor. 14:40 that we are to do, ‘all things…properly and in an orderly manner.’ This is case in point as to why we have song leaders in our worship services. Someone to lead our singing so the congregation can sing together without some running ahead or sing ‘whatever song they want.’ The 14th chapter of I Corinthians helps us understand this idea more clearly.

7) Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing Him more than yourself or any other creature. In order to do this attend strictly to the sense of what you sing, and see that your heart is not carried away with sound, but offered to God continually; so shall your singing be such as the Lord will approve here, and reward you when He cometh in the clouds of heaven. I couldn’t say it any clearer. As we sing on Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings and Wednesday nights (or anytime for that matter) we’re praising God. The question is, where do you focus? We are a blessed people to have the hope of heaven. Let’s sing in our congregations to the glory of God and not to satisfy our opinions.

And just in case you were wondering; here’s one more quote from John Wesley, “I have no objection to instruments of music in our worship, provided they are neither seen nor heard.” Updated from What Did Early Christians Believe About Using Instrumental Music in Worship. http://www.bible.ca/H-music.htm

1, June 16, 20131, June 14, 2013

Five Non-Negotiable Duties of a Father

Being the father of three young adults and writing an article for fathers may seem a little pretentious. But by no means do I intend to come across self-promoting. Realizing our youngest is 15, and our older two children are college students is humbling in its own right. But perhaps there are a few small token ideas we fathers should consider together…

Let me propose to you that there are 5 Non-Negotiable Duties that fathers have toward their families and for their children. Whether you have one or a dozen children, if you lose sight of these five principles for raising your family, you will surely struggle to fulfill your obligation as a father. (Singing may be absent from this list, but you will find it’s influence is ever present.)

1) A father must cultivate a sense of family identity. Hold up the family as not only important but a place each member is valued. I remember growing up and being told, “Remember, you’re a Bruce.” One youth minister, before taking the kids on mission trip, would remind the students with these words, “Remember whose you are.” As a family we found honor in our name sake, and as God’s children we cherished the identity we share in His family. Perhaps the connection (music-wise) is found in the spiritual song written by Isaac Watts in the early 1700’s; “I’m not ashamed to own my Lord, nor to defend His cause…” When we cultivate a strong sense of family, our children will know they are safe and unashamed of who they are. Solomon gave a commendation in Proverbs 22:1, “A good name is to be more desired than great wealth…” Father’s, cultivate your families identity but teach them to honor Jesus, the name above all names.

2) A father must regularly demonstrate love to his wife. Without hesitation we consider Paul’s words to the church in Ephesus (Ephesians 5:25) as he writes, “Husbands, love your wives…” Alone, these four words are scripture and suffice, but we are left with the question, ‘HOW do I love my wife?’ The next seven words answer the question, “…just as Christ also loved the church…” But to the un-churched the question may remain, how did Christ love the church? Complete the verse, “…and gave Himself up for her.” We realize this means the ultimate sacrifice. Christ died for us! Husbands (Fathers) is your wife, your family, important enough to you that you are willing to sacrifice yourself for them?

3) A father must give his children the freedom to fail. Look no further than Luke 15:11-32 when Jesus tells us the story of the ‘prodigal son’. (Go to the text and read it again for a refresher.) The father of two boys is very affluent and provides for his family. But when his youngest decides to ‘move out’ and make his own way in life, his father doesn’t stop him. The young man is about to experience some difficult times and his struggles will be crippling. Certainly his father realizes this, but is still willing to give him his ‘freedom.’ Why would a loving father allow such a foolish mistake? Why not tell him ‘no’ and look out for his son’s best interest? The father, in Christ’s parable, is letting his son fail so he’ll learn what’s most important. Never assume it’s easy to let your children struggle through difficult times. But if they are to grow and learn and appreciate the blessings of life, they often have to fail. But it’s then that I remember the old invitation song written by Charles Gabriel, “Patient, loving, and tenderly still the Father pleads; Hear, O hear Him calling, calling now for thee…” Fathers hurt when their children fail, but often in failure our children learn. Our prayer is that they’ll learn and grow from their mistakes, then return home.

4) A father must guard his tongue and tone. This can be hard for those who are ‘manly men.’ We’re rough and gruff and often bark out commands to the troops. Fathers, we must be very careful to consider the example we’re setting. You’ve heard the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. The way you raise your children will be the way in which they learn to treat themselves and eventually raise their families. Discipline falls into this category too. We are commanded to discipline our children, but unbridled punishment can be detrimental. God’s word is our guide…Proverbs 13:24 “He who withhold his rod (discipline) hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently.” Notice that when we fail to discipline (withhold the rod) we, in essence, are ‘hating’ our children. However, if our discipline is rooted in love we’re following God’s word. Solomon tells us again in the 16th chapter of Proverbs, verse 24…“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Often we reserve kind words for strangers and inject venom upon our family. How about giving our family (our children) some of that ‘pleasant honeycomb.’

5) A father must build a relationship of trust with his children…built on God’s Word and not on human knowledge. How much do you value God’s word in the presence of your children? Do your children see you embrace the word of God and make Him your focus? Or do we have a tendency to slide up next to the world and let culture dictate our choices? Reading God’s word, and making God your priority is building a relationship on Him and His word. Taking your children to the soccer game instead of worship on Sunday morning is not building a relationship on God’s Word, but on the world’s ways.

Perhaps Solomon says it best in the first seven chapters of Proverbs as he writes the phrase, “My son…” seventeen times. Would that we instruct our children over and over again about the glory of God and the admonition to live for Him. “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Do not let kindness and truth leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute (reputation) in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3

1, June 14, 20131, June 16, 2013

God’s Chosen Fathers…June 16th

On a clear Sunday afternoon in the mid-1990’s our family went to eat lunch after morning services. As we were getting our children out of their car seats and into the restaurant, Logan, then three, asked, “Since we celebrate mommy’s on Mother’s Day and daddy’s on Father’s Day, when do we celebrate ‘Son Day’?” My response; “Every day…is son’s day.”

But if the truth be know, every day we should be recognizing the Son of God and celebrate Him. This past month we took some time to honor our mothers, and this Sunday we’ll take a minute and consider our dads. Father’s Day and Mother’s Day were designed by our country to honor our parents (Ephesians 6:1, 2). But men we must remember our responsibility as dads. Join us as we consider the idea that God has chosen us to be fathers.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, June 16, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Restore My Soul” – no book

As we sing this song to God we’re asking Him to restore us, revive us and renew us. The text for this hymn is Psalm 80, “O God, restore us and cause Your face to shine upon us…” Surely we have all felt weary, empty and ‘cold’ in our zeal for God. But this morning as we sing, we’ll be calling on Him to renew our love for Him, rebuild our faith in Him and restore our soul.

“Night with Ebon Pinion” – no book

This is an old spiritual song that dates back to the mid-1800’s, with some very strong Biblical applications. The poetry from this song has caused many to abandon it, but in so doing we lose a beautiful message about the last hours of Christ’s life on earth. Terms like “ebon pinion” and “brooded o’re the vale’ have perplexed many Christians into leaving this hymn behind, but consider what we’re singing. Ebon means ‘black in color’ while pinions are the wings/feathers of a bird. To ‘brood’ is to hover or sit upon, and the ‘vale’ is the valley. Now pull them all together with this translation; The dark night had settled and was hovering over the valley like the wings of bird… We have an obligation to take the time to understand what we’re singing. Maybe that’s why some of our older hymns have been tossed out; we would rather not think about the words.

“God is So Good” – 83

A simple song with a complex message. God is good, He answers prayer and He cares for me. Would that be the reason we sing the final verse, “I love Him so…” or is our faithfulness unconditional? He died for us when we were undeserving. Do you love Him because He’s good and answers your prayers? Simple, but complex…

“Walk with Me” – 394

Less than 50 years old, we sing this hymn asking for God’s guidance and presence in our daily lives. The refrain is a personal plea that I will follow in His footsteps from Galilee to Gethsemane. Fathers, remember our responsibility to lead our families; we’ll do it best when we walk with Jesus.

“Faith of Our Fathers” – 754

Fredrick Faber captured the message here of a godly heritage. When our father’s are faithful and pass that faith down to their children, we are blessed. But fathers, have you ever been confined to the dungeon, or faced the fire and sword? Who of us have been chained in prisons dark? Hebrews 11:32-38 gives us the remembrance of these faithful (fore)fathers as we look at verses 1 & 2, “Now faith, is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old gained approval.” “Faith of our fathers! Holy faith! We will be true to Thee (God) till death!”

“Step by Step” – 15

Before our lesson we’ll medley Faith of Our Fathers with Step by Step. Song leaders, since the key signatures are the same and the message is sequential, the flow of these two songs make a beautiful combination. The tradition followed by the contemporary makes for a powerful reminder that our faith in God will seek Him in the daily. Each step toward God shows our families, and this lost world, that we are devoted to walking in His ways.

“I Am Coming, Lord” – 923

“I hear Thy welcome voice that calls me, Lord, to Thee…” As our invitation song we open the door, so to speak, for those who are lost or struggling in their faith to come back to God. An invitation song isn’t the only time we seek the lost, but it’s a great opportunity. In our hymnals, Faith & Praise, only the first verse is provided. But this Sunday morning we’ll revisit Louis Hartsough’s original writing; ” ‘Tis (It is) Jesus (who) calls me on to perfect faith and love, to perfect hope and peace and trust, for earth and heav’n above…” To those who are hurting, sad and lost in sin, there is peace in the blood that flowed from Calvary.

“To Christ Be True” – 736

What better way to end the service this morning than to reconfirm our faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We’ll join our voices and sing to encourage each other to be true to Christ. Why, ‘…for He will go with you, and help you’ through all your conflicts. But more importantly, because we have been chosen to lead our children to Him.

1, June 11, 20131, June 12, 2013

Do We Want More? (part 1)

A young, southern boy was sitting down to the breakfast table with his older brothers and sisters, ready to feast on momma’s pancakes. As the youngest in this family finally gets his plate of hotcakes, his momma asked if he’s ready for some molasses. With all the southern slang the little boy had grown up with, he innocently replies; “How can I have mo’ lasses when I hasn’t had any yet?”

A comical story about a little boy’s understanding of ‘more,’ but an idea I’d like for us to follow for while. As we consider wanting/needing ‘more’ of something perhaps we should ask the obvious, more of what? On a tangible level, we might want more money, more help, or more vacation time. But in reality we might say we want more strength, more understanding, or more time. But either way we tend to want ‘more.’

The hymn we will be examining is focused on our lives and the holiness we aspire to. Written and composed by Philip Bliss in 1873, this song repeats the word ‘more’ twenty-four (24) times. With just three short verses what could we possible be praying for more of? Look deeper at how much ‘more’ we should be aspiring for.

In verse one alone we seek (sing); more holiness, more striving, more patience and more sorrow. More faith, more sense, more joy and more purpose. One by one let’s consider what are we asking God to give us ‘more’ of:
1) More holiness give me… Holiness, by definition, is the state of being set apart. We are asking to be set apart for God’s service. Read Titus 2:11-14, through Christ we are redeemed to God, “…a people for His own possession.” We are called to be holy. Deuteronomy 7:6, “For you are a holy people to the Lord your God…”

2) More striving within… why would we pray for striving? It indicates we are looking for an inter-struggle. A fight against our human nature of worldliness. Paul explained it when he wrote, “…I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For that which I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate…” Romans 7:14-15. Consider how many times you’ve said, ‘I wish I hadn’t done that.’ In short, we need ‘more striving within.’

3) More patience in suffering. Again, read the text in James 1:1-2, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, know that the testing of your faith produces endurance.” Not something we want or look forward to, but something we know we need, patience.

4) More sorrow for sin. This alone should make us stop and think about our life. Do we feel regret, guilt or sorrow when we sin? Not when we’re CAUGHT in sin, but for our sinful acts. We sing (and pray) that we’d be more sorrowful for our sin. Philip Bliss would agree, more conscience of our sin.

5) More faith in my Savior. What does it take for us to strengthen our faith? Perhaps we find the same sentiments from the father of a young boy in Mark 9. You’ll remember the discussion Jesus had with the man until the boy’s father in desperation cried out, “I do believe, help my unbelief.” In other words, I need more faith in my Savior.

6) More sense of His care. How much does God care about you? Do you understand (can you sense) how much you matter to God? “For God so loved the world…” We do have some realization of His care. But do you care enough to concern yourself with Him? If we had the sense to realize His gift (Christ on the cross) we’d do all we can to give Him our all.

7) More joy in His service. Many of us equate serving to working. Who finds joy in their work? Paul states it best in Colossians 3:24, “…do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men…” When our heart is right with God, then we’ll service (work) with joy.

8) More purpose in prayer. Why do you pray? Do you have an objective when you bow in prayer or is it just a routine, something you’re supposed to do? What is your purpose? We pray for the sick, for those who are traveling, for those who are hurting…we have a purpose, don’t we? I Corinthians 14:14, 15 (one of my favorite passages), “For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. What is the outcome then? I shall pray with the spirit and I shall pray with the mind also…” In other words, be purposeful in prayer.

We’ll continue the study of this song in later weeks, but until that time take a look at the other two verses; there are still sixteen more ‘mores’.

1, June 5, 20131, June 4, 2013

How Do You Spell Love?

Simple Truths is a motivational organization that provides some wonder encouragement and support to it’s readers. This article is an excerpt from a book that reminds us of the shortness we find in this life. Whether you are looking for motivation, or simply needing inspiration, Simple Truths will provide for you a great resource.

“In the faint light of the attic, an old man, tall and stooped, bent his great frame and made his way to a stack of boxes that sat near one of the little half-windows.

Brushing aside a wisp of cobwebs, he tilted the top box toward the light and began to carefully lift out one old photograph album after another.

Eyes once bright but now dim searched longingly for the source that had drawn him here.

It began with the fond recollection of the love of his life, long gone, and somewhere in these albums was a photo of her he hoped to rediscover. Silent as a mouse, he patiently opened the long buried treasures and soon was lost in a sea of memories. Although his world had not stopped spinning when his wife left it, the past was more alive in his heart than his present aloneness.

Setting aside one of the dusty albums, he pulled from the box what appeared to be a journal from his grown son’s childhood. He could not recall ever having seen it before, or that his son had ever kept a journal. Why did Elizabeth always save the children’s old junk? he wondered, shaking his white head.

Opening the yellowed pages, he glanced over a short reading, and his lips curved in an unconscious smile. Even his eyes brightened as he read the words that spoke clear and sweet to his soul. It was the voice of the little boy who had grown up far too fast in this very house, and whose voice had grown fainter and fainter over the years. In the utter silence of the attic, the words of a guileless six-year-old worked their magic and carried the old man back to a time almost totally forgotten.

Entry after entry stirred a sentimental hunger in his heart like the longing a gardener feels in the winter for the fragrance of spring flowers. But it was accompanied by the painful memory that his son’s simple recollections of those days were far different from his own. But how different?

Reminded that he had kept a daily journal of his business activities over the years, he closed his son’s journal and turned to leave, having forgotten the cherished photo that originally triggered his search. Hunched over to keep from bumping his head on the rafters, the old man stepped to the wooden stairway and made his descent, then headed down a carpeted stairway that led to the den.

Opening a glass cabinet door, he reached in and pulled out an old business journal. Turning, he sat down at his desk and placed the two journals beside each other. His was leather-bound and engraved neatly with his name in gold, while his son’s was tattered and the name “Jimmy” had been nearly scuffed from its surface. He ran a long skinny finger over the letters, as though he could restore what had been worn away with time and use.

As he opened his journal, the old man’s eyes fell upon an inscription that stood out because it was so brief in comparison to other days. In his own neat handwriting were these words:

Wasted the whole day fishing with Jimmy. Didn’t catch a thing.

With a deep sigh and a shaking hand, he took Jimmy’s journal and found the boy’s entry for the same day, June 4. Large scrawling letters, pressed deeply into the paper, read:

Went fishing with my Dad. Best day of my life.“

Click here if you’d like to read more about this article. (For best effect, turn up your volume.)

The story you just read is the introduction for To a Child, Love is Spelled T-I-M-E. It was written by the co-author Lance Wubbels, a best-selling author for inspirational books.