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A Christian Response to the Looming Fiscal Cliff

11/25/2012

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Almost every news cycle has something in it about the fiscal cliff that America is approaching. So what is this fiscal cliff that so many seem to be talking about? What does it mean for the average person? How should Christians view this possible event and prepare for what may come?

First, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke is the one credited with giving us the “Fiscal Cliff” title. We need to understand that this supposed fiscal cliff really isn't a cliff, but a potential financial collapse that could lead us back into a major recession. Many believe America will proceed over that proverbial cliff if Congress and our president do not intervene before the end of 2012. The Bush era tax cuts along with the payroll tax cuts that were afforded to many Americans will be reinstituted beginning January 1 sending the markets into a downward spiral, or so it is thought.  

Second, what adds to the possibility of a physical cliff is the enormous debt that we carry as a country. America is quickly approaching $17 trillion in debt, most of which is held by foreign countries, and in particular China. The Scriptures have much to say concerning money and debt. Note Proverbs 22:7 “the rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender slave.”

Third, when we couple the first and second points above with a new entitlement program known as the Affordable Care Act, (Obama Care), which will require new spending with funds we do not have, the outcome is fairly predictable. America is bankrupt yet lives in denial. The Congressional budget office, a nonpartisan group for the U.S. Congress recently stated our country will fall into recession if all these changes are allowed to proceed. Many analysts believe temporary measures may be instituted but will only delay the inevitable.

I’ll be the first to say that I’m no expert when it comes to financial matters, but the Bible has much to say about money. I remember when I was younger looking at my father and grandfather and thinking that each generation did a little better than the one before it, I no longer believe that’s the norm. As Christians we have fallen into the same traps financially as those outside the church find themselves in today. The typical American home is simply a microcosm of what is taking place in our own government. We have major spending issues based in selfishness.

In the next few paragraphs I would like to share with you what I believe are three problem areas we have not only as Americans but as human beings. And then I would like to share with you three principles based upon Scripture that every Christian should follow as we prepare for possible financial difficulties.

The first problem area we have is based in ignorance, note Proverbs 22:3, “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” The word “prudent” means shrewd while “simple” carries the meaning of being untaught or naïve. Most of us are simply ignorant when it comes to financial matters and what the Bible teaches. As a pastor I've been guilty in the past of not being a better teacher to the congregations I've served by not spending more time providing financial instruction based upon the Scriptures.

The second problem area we have deals with our indulgent nature, read Matthew 6:24 and 1 Timothy 6:10 concerning the love of money. The “love of money” spoken of in these passages simply means to “covet”, and is a form of idolatry. Clearly one of the points Christ Jesus makes is that we worship what we serve. In America we put a great deal of emphasis on obtaining wealth, while other matters of importance are placed on the back burner. It isn’t a sin to be wealthy. I personally believe that God has blessed some with great prosperity in order to be a blessing to others and bring glory to Himself. But when wealth is our main focus it reveals the true nature of our heart.

The third problem area that many of us have is that we are poor planners. Note Proverbs 24:27, “Do your planning and prepare your fields before building your house.” All too often we see what we want but rarely count the cost, we live in an impulsive society. Many of us lack self-control not only when it comes to our finances but many areas in our lives. As I've shared with others the philosophy of some can be summed up with this saying, “I want what I want when I want, and I want it now.”

Obviously if we’re going to prepare ourselves and our churches for possible financial difficulties ahead we need to correct the three problem areas listed above. We also need to put the following three biblical principles into practice.

One, as Christians we should view our financial affairs as a spiritual matter. The monies that we have should be viewed as belonging to God. We are simply his stewards and have been entrusted to use the finances we have wisely ultimately for God’s benefit and glory.

Two, as Christians we should also have a reasonable expectation of accountability concerning our finances. Husbands and wives are to operate as a team holding each other accountable. Church leaders are to be accountable to God and the congregations we serve. There should be no secrets and no waste when it comes to God’s finances.

Three, we need to identify our weaknesses when it comes to our financial responsibilities, and honestly deal with personal issues concerning the mismanagement of our monies. One of the major causes for divorce in America involves the differences husbands and wives have in regards to personal finances. Often times this requires the help of financial counselors and other experienced Christians that we can trust to help put us on the right track.

These principles are based upon the teachings of Christ found in Luke 19:11– 21. Again I’m not a financial expert but I know some that are, and many are more than willing to help just for the asking. I encourage you to study the word of God concerning your finances, and ask help from those who have the experience to help.

Blessings


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To Israel with Love

11/18/2012

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From my early days at Liberty University my love and appreciation has grown exponentially for Israel. In seminary I loved my Old Testament studies. I was fascinated with every aspect of Israeli life, culture, teachings and thought. I’m the same today; I want to know all I can about the people of God and the land in which they live. 

On my first trip to Israel in the winter of 2000, I was mesmerized by her history and beauty. My first act, once I crossed the border checkpoint at the Allenby Bridge from Jordan was to fall to my knees and kiss the ground; just a small portion of the land God promised to the people of Israel. I did the same thing on my last trip to Israel once I exited the airport in Tel Aviv. I’m sure those traveling with me must have been a little confused.   

It’s not so much the land that I love, but the people. There is something within me that yearns for them and their salvation. These are the people from which my Lord descends. The One Who has saved me from an eternal hell. The One Who was promised to come, and Who will come again. These are the people that have been used, abused, and threatened through the millenniums. These are the people that present day governments love to hate. Even the rise of animosity from those in our own government and country amaze and scare me. I take to heart quite literally the words of God in Genesis 12:3:

And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed."

I watch with horror as Israel is attacked time and time again with rockets from the Palestinian in Gaza to her south, and Hamas from Syria to her north. The world, including our own government encourages Israel to exercise restraint as if she is the aggressor. Evil lurks within the Middle East, and it’s the neighbors of Israel who fit the description. Israelis desperately desire peace, but not at their own destruction.

Leader after leader has made concessions through the years but to no avail. They have surrendered lands and offered land trades only for each gesture of peace to be rejected. Radicals in Iran and in neighboring Arab countries continuously call for Israel destruction, all the while waiting patiently for UN sanctions to work.

Take note of a few other things that Israel has done, or offered through the years in order to try and establish peace with the Palestinians. In 1967 following Israel’s reunification of Jerusalem, all Arab residents were offered full citizenship, but the majority refused Israel’s proposal. Even those who didn’t accept citizenship still had the right to vote in community elections. Israel offered social benefits which included health funds, and social security services. Palestinians were given the ability to maintain their own educational and social institutions. And Israelis raised the standard of living for the neglected areas once controlled by Jordan offering basic water, sanitation, and utilities. Yet, it seems that we only hear and read how “terrible” Israel has treated the Palestinians.

I wonder how many people know that the Palestinian people never owned the land they were living in prior to the 1967 war. Many would have us believe today that Israel stole this land from the Palestinians and that’s false. The truth is Egypt held most of Gaza, and Jordan controlled the West Bank. Then as it is now, forces outside of Israel attacked her and she simply defended herself. As the old saying goes, “To the victor go the spoils of war.”

How many of us really believe that if foreign countries were raining down rockets on Los Angeles or New York City, even our present government wouldn’t do something to stop the violence? Israel has ever right to protect her people and her interest, not to do so would be suicidal. Let me encourage you to do two things. One, speak out in defense of Israel. Call or write your representatives in Washington. And two, pray. Pray for Israel, the Palestinians, and the Muslim population as a whole. Pray for their salvation in Christ Jesus. Pray for peace and the Lord’s return.

Shalom


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Haters, Racist, and Intolerance

11/11/2012

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This past week, I apparently started a social media uproar within my “circle of friends,” concerning a post I placed on Facebook about Tuesday’s election outcome. I will admit, there are times I say things that I know will cause a stir, but I do so believing it’s part of what I’m to do as a minister. Words, ideas, and teachings should drive us to think more deeply about the world we live in, as well as the world to come. I want those to whom I’m called to minister, to search the Scriptures for the answers to life’s questions and issues. I want them to see the world from a biblical perspective in order to honor God and live boldly.

With the brouhaha I created by using the word “stupid,” I sat in amazement as I read the conversations taking place between my Facebook “friends.” I then began to read other entries and bloggers from across the nation. The debate ran hot on both sides of the isle with a few peacemakers calling us all to find a common ground. Most didn’t listen to their pleas.

As each wrote his or her response most did so with a sense of passion. Anger, frustration, fear, and profound sadness were displayed by the written words of each individual. Some were offended while others just became more enraged. Some posters made me laugh while others just left me shaking my head.

If there was one thing that troubled me it was the tactic that some used to try and silence their opposition. This method has been used often and with great success in the last few years, particularly by those who lean left. It seems that many times when a conservative stands to offer an opinion that is contrary to liberal causes and ideologies, he or she is called a hater, a racist, or intolerant. Even if the term racist isn’t used it is often implied.

I find these terms are used frequently when one’s argument begins to take on water like a sinking ship. It also appears those who scream intolerance the loudest and most often are the most intolerant of all. The idea of tolerance has not only been transformed, but hijacked by a secular society with an agenda far different from traditionalist. Tolerance for many today carries the idea of acceptance plus approval. True tolerance is the ability to accept the ideas and practices of another, without having to personally approve of said ideas and practices.

Many have the idea in our society that everyone has a right not to be offended. But on this one point I actually agree with radio talk show host Neil Boortz, “no one in America has a right not to be offended.” If someone says something to which you disagree, if they speak out boldly and with passion it doesn’t necessarily make them your enemy. Nor does it make one a “hater, racist, or intolerant.” It just means you don’t agree, and some let you know with increased volume.

The thought by some outside the Church, and maybe some in the Church, that Christ Jesus or His followers would never say anything offensive is laughable. Have you not read the words Christ spoke to the Pharisees, or the writings of Paul? The Gospel itself is offensive to those who do not believe. Heck, I even find the Gospel is sometimes offensive to those who claim to know Christ.

The bottom line is this, when you speak, speak truthfully and in love. But remember that truth sometimes hurts, and love doesn’t always mean one is gentle when presenting what needs to be heard or done.

All glory be to God!          


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A Broken Shell

11/4/2012

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A few years ago a young man was walking alone upon the beach early one June morning searching for answers. As he walked the sun was rising and he noticed that something was written in the sand just a few yards ahead of him. As he approached he was quickly brought to his knees when he read, “Jesus Loves You – God”. As a Christian and intellectually he knew Jesus loved him, yet he couldn’t get past his own history to accept this truth. 

Kneeling in the sand he looked down and what lay before him was a broken seashell. At first, this shell was seemingly like the millions of other shells that lie upon every beach throughout the world. But this seashell was somehow different. The young man settled into a seated position and began to examine the shell. What he noticed first was the color of purple that ran upon its top edge. Then looking closer he could see how the sand and force of the sea had smoothed the once jagged shell. At that moment it occurred to him that what he held in his hand was truly unique. There could be no other seashell in the world just like this one. Even though it was only a portion of what it once was the shell was still whole in a sense, because it had survived the ravages of life. Every break, crack, and hole helped to tell the story of this one particular shell.

In this young man’s life had been many hurts and heartaches at the hands of others, and even a few self-inflicted wounds. He struggled to understand how God could love such an individual like himself. When he looked back at his life before the shell all he could see were the effects of sin and shame. As he looked forward, holding the shell in his hand, he realized in spite of his brokenness, he was whole. The negative events in his life had helped to uniquely shape him into the man that God wanted him to be.

Note these words from the Apostle Paul;

Romans 5:1-5 (ESV) Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

First, because of the work of Christ we can experience a sense of peace from God only because we are at peace with God. Secondly, we can take comfort and joy in knowing that God doesn’t waste a hurt. He uses the sufferings in this life to build us into the people that He would have us to be. And three, the hope we have is a confident expectation that the magnitude of God’s love is manifested through His Holy Spirit, and knowing He never leaves us alone.

I will forever be grateful to the person who wrote that message in the sand so many years ago. It wasn’t by accident they wrote what they did or when they did. For me, it was providential that I see in ten foot letters that Jesus loved me. It was providential that I kneel where I did in order to see that one particular seashell. Just to let you know, I carried that shell in my pocket for years as a reminded of God’s love and compassion. Today it sits upon my desk as one of my greatest treasures.     


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