Who Took the Merry Out of Your Christmas?

Who Took the Merry Out of Your Christmas?

The realization that the nation is in a recession denoted by job losses, declining disposable incomes, dreary financial forecasts, and no distinct quick fix has many people saying “Bah, humbug!” this Christmas season. The economic stresses of the day have strained, suppressed, or squeezed out the merry feelings many display at Christmas time.

Of a truth, the times are difficult, the economic outlook is dour, and your personal prospects of a quick recovery may be dim. But, with all of that dismal information, there is still an opportunity to have a merry Christmas.

How you may ask? You may say, “You don’t understand what I am going through or how I am feeling! I lost my job and I can’t buy Christmas for my kids.”

You would be right in your statement. But, the merry can never be taken out of Christmas, no matter how terrible, troublesome, or turbulent be the situation you are going through.

The true merriment, joy of the Christmas season is based not on the traditions of men, our outward circumstances, or our inner drive to find or formulate our own source of Christmas joy.

The true merriment, joy of Christmas is rooted in the knowledge and understanding that the Christmas season is a time of remembering God’s gift to man, in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ, who came to save the world from sin.

With this in mind, you can have a merry Christmas if you set your heart truly on Jesus. Your Christmas can be joyous, if you find contentment solely in the Lord. You can celebrate this season in high spirits, if you consider that Jesus is the real reason for the season.

I am pleased to offer you some encouraging news that can put you into a festive mood.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10-11

Christ was sent that you might be saved from your sin. He is an equal opportunity Savior. Whosoever will let them come-He does not discriminate based on age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. No matter who you are, where you have been, or what you have done, the little baby boy born in a lowly manger to a virgin Mary grew and was shown through Word and power to be both, Lord and Savior.

Let your joy be centered in Jesus, really meditating on His love and sacrifice for you, His desire for you to love and know Him. Believe on Him as your Savior and Lord and you will find that your Christmas can always be merry and bright.

Have yourself a Merry Christmas!

Larry D. Reed, Sr.
I Owe Jesus
12/11/08

What is Man that Thou Art Mindful of Him?

What is Man that Thou Art Mindful of Him?

What is man, that Thou shouldest make him after Thy likeness, in Thine own image?
And, grant him a relationship with Thee as a gracious privilege?

What is man, that Thou shouldest form him by Thine own hands?
And, give him dominion over the earth upon which he stands?

What is man, that Thou shouldest shower him with Thy divine love?
And, keep a constant vigil over him from Thy throne in heaven above?

What is man, that Thou shouldest make provision for his every need?
And, bestow upon him life and the opportunity to succeed?

What is man, that thou shouldest give him an ear to hearken unto Thy voice?
And, give him a heart, a mind, and allow him to make his choice?

What is man, that Thou shouldest be merciful unto him when he chose to defy Thy word?
And, give him a second chance when his soul cried out, his cry Thou heard?

What is man, that Thou shouldest make such a glorious sacrifice to cover his fault?
And, send Thy Beloved Son to redeem him, the most prized treasure of Thy infinite vault?

What is man, that Thou shouldest allow us, mere men, to preach Jesus and His gospel story?
And, after the completion of all things, receive all who believe to behold Thy everlasting glory?

What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that Thou visitest him?
Psalm 8:4

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
11/13/08

Keep Hope Alive...

Keep Hope Alive…

There are countless miles that our weary feet have trod
Yet, let us rest our hope securely on the righteous path leading to God
However terrible the tests with torrents of tears we’ve cried
Hope has kept us smoothing bit by bit, even on up the rough side
So many times, we have been knocked to the ground
But, real hope would not allow us to wallow and stay down
We are versed in getting up, brushing off, and running on
Hope pumped, primed, and prepared us and we kept pressing on
We have endured harsh hardships, severely suffering wrong
Hope helped us in oppression find freedom if only in a song
Hope for something better propelled us to believe
Though our burdens were heavy, every burden, God would relieve
Though, troubling trials showered down upon us like rain
We moved ahead in faith, hope, and love and it eased our pain
Hope for something brighter convinced us to look past the dark night
To a glorious day when we would take wings and mount up in flight
The shadow of darkness haunted us, no way out we could perceive
We fixed our hope on Jesus-the ever-shining Light, to Him, let us cleave
Jesus, our only Hope, died and was raised to save; now He is ever alive
In hope of Him let us to Him, for Him, through Him never cease to strive

But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise You more and more. My mouth will tell of Your righteousness, of Your salvation all day long, though I know not its measure. I will come and proclaim Your mighty acts, O Sovereign LORD; I will proclaim Your righteousness, Yours alone. Since my youth, O God, You have taught me, and to this day I declare Your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare Your power to the next generation, Your might to all who are to come. Psalm 71:14-18 (NIV)

RevLDReedSr
11/5/08
I Owe JESUS

Righteous Rescue???

Righteous Rescue???

Is it moral to continue to bolster the greedy,
And bomb at elevating the lives of the needy?

Is it just to go on accepting our leader’s ill will,
Without calling on them to demonstrate goodwill?

Is it proper to bless Wall Street with remuneration,
While willing workers cannot afford medication?

Is it honorable to again allow the privileged to rack up,
While advising the underprivileged to suck it up?

Is it ethical for our leaders to supplement themselves
Sending away those who need help to fend for themselves

There is a Judge that looks low as He sits on high
He will hear and act when the poor and needy cry.

He will also chasten His own people for being mute
As the less fortunate are made even further destitute.

Let us use our God given clout
And for righteousness sake, let us speak out

Psalm 82 (Amplified Bible)
A Psalm of Asaph.
1GOD STANDS in the assembly [of the representatives] of God; in the midst of the magistrates or judges He gives judgment [as] among the gods.
2How long will you [magistrates or judges] judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
3Do justice to the weak (poor) and fatherless; maintain the rights of the afflicted and needy.
4Deliver the poor and needy; rescue them out of the hand of the wicked.
5[The magistrates and judges] know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in the darkness [of complacent satisfaction]; all the foundations of the earth [the fundamental principles upon which rests the administration of justice] are shaking.
6I said, You are gods [since you judge on My behalf, as My representatives]; indeed, all of you are children of the Most High.
7But you shall die as men and fall as one of the princes.
8Arise, O God, judge the earth! For to You belong all the nations.

RevLDReedSr – Partisan of Jesus
I Owe Jesus
10/3/08

Daddy’s Appeal for His Beloved Son

Daddy’s Appeal for His Beloved Son

Lord, I appeal to you on behalf of my beloved son
Help me wisely prepare him for the race of life he must run

Pardon me for any pitiful example I have put on display
Help me to live a consecrated life that I not lead him astray

Thank you for his sincere heart and his gentle bearing
Thank you for his mind-cautious, curious, and caring

Thank you for his adventurous streak in trying noble things to do
May he not be a quitter, but rewarded for diligent follow through

May he sense the good in all people, the simple and complex
Be pure in his relationships and embrace a sacred view of sex

May he be a godly leader who shuns running with an ungodly herd
May he gladly seek your will and with pleasure treasure Your word

Make of him a man of integrity, governed by genuine humility
May he see and say that You are the source of all his worth and ability

I pray in turbulent times he would yet tender to You his praise
In prosperity or penury, may he patiently serve You all his days

Prosper, my Lord, please, the good works of my son’s hands
May he know that in You he has all he needs to meet life’s demands

I pray he would love You, Lord Jesus, with all he has within
I pray his principal desire be to please you, purging his life from sin

If it is in Your plan that he should have a family all his to claim
May he love them deeply, dearly and draw them to trust in Your name

Fulfill my joy, hear, O’ Lord my prayer for my beloved son
Your grace and peace be with him until Your work in him down here is done

The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure it is to have wise children.
(Proverbs 23:24 New Living Translation)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
10/1/08

Because You Are Very Special To Me

Because You Are Very Special To Me

Because you are very special to Me,
I wanted to do something for you so you would consider Me.
So, I came down from on high to deliver you, leaving My home in bright glory.

Because you are very special to Me,
I wanted you to know Me for yourself, to know Me personally.
So, I had My words recorded to enlighten your heart regarding My life-changing story.

Because you are very special to Me,
I left a loving legacy that you would emulate My life of charity.
So, I humbly healed the hurting, helped the helpless, showing My heart is full of mercy.

Because you are very special to Me,
I wanted to demonstrate My care for you in a way so you would love Me.
So, I gave Myself for you, to take away your sin, I shed my blood for you at Calvary.

Because you are very special to Me,
I have made arrangements that with Me you may forever be.
So, I have gone away to prepare a place, I will come again to carry you into eternity.

Because you are very special to Me,
I wanted to be ever close to your heart and mind, be there for you truly.
So, I had to go to My Father that My Spirit would come to guide you continually.

Because you are very special to Me,
I wanted you to be a part of My world-changing, life saving ministry.
So, I have endowed, empowered you by grace to lift up My name to draw others to Me.

I have done all of this, because you are very special to Me.

Since thou wast precious in My sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life. Isaiah 43:4

Inspired by my love for all Christ has done for me and by Anna Grace who gained my attention one day by saying,”Daddy, I wrote something for you. It makes you very special to receive this.”

She held up for my viewing a piece of paper with orange and red doodles and squiggles made by her industrious tiny hands from the creative energy and love in her three-year-old heart. She was right, I felt very special to receive it.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
10/1/08

Anyway

Anyway

When the resources are low and times are tight,
You may be tempted to shun doing right.
Do right anyway, trust Jesus to see you through…

You sacrifice for others and they leave you in a bind,
You may feel compelled to cease being kind.
Be kind anyway, trust Jesus to see you through…

Your life may be as a traverse on a treacherous tightrope.
Fear of falling may fool you into to giving up all hope.
Be hopeful anyway; trust Jesus to see you through…

Setbacks may have slowed your advancement for a while.
Discontentment may coerce you to smother your smile.
Smile anyway; trust Jesus to see you through…

Failures, finicky family, and fickle friends may maim your self-esteem.
You may feel unfit to fulfill your beloved dream.
Reach for your dream anyway; trust Jesus to see you through…

You may have toiled and tired to the point of losing your spark.
The tug is quite strong to quit before reaching your mark.
Press on toward your mark anyway; trust Jesus to see you through…

Longings for loved ones dearly departed never seem to cease.
You may feel too depressed to enjoy blessed peace.
Enjoy blessed peace anyway; trust Jesus to see you through…

You have been crying out for your place and purpose, to find your way.
Your perturbation may persuade you to cease to pray.
Call on the name of the Lord in prayer anyway and trust Jesus to see you through…

You may be dealing with a deluge of dilemmas; therefore, you drift in a daze.
Your predicament may push you to ponder there is nothing worth praise.
Praise God anyway for He is worthy and trust Jesus to see you through…

Confidants have confused your concepts; you distrust all you have ever heard.
You may mistakenly commence to mistrust even God’s word.
Believe God’s word anyway, it will teach you to trust Jesus to see you through…

In this life, you may experience being put off, put out, and put down.
You may feel as the one most likely never to wear a crown.
Know that you can wear a crown anyway, if you trust Jesus to see you through…

The Lord Jesus was tried-tested, and tempted-at all points just like you and me.
He was hard-pressed to give up before dying for us that we might be free.
He died that we might be eternally free anyway; trust Jesus to see you through…

17 Therefore, it was necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, His brothers and sisters, so that He could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. He then could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. 18 Since He himself has gone through suffering and temptation, He is able to help us when we are being tempted. (Heb 2:17-18 NLT)

14 That is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the Son of God. Let us cling to Him and never stop trusting Him. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same temptations we do, yet He did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it. (Heb 4:14-16 NLT)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/29/08

Sacred Serenity

Sacred Serenity

O’ the sacred serenity
Glorify Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Who have made soul salvation attainable
To those willing to secure it

O’ the sacred serenity
God’s word shows the way
A reassuring, invigorating guiding light
Enlightening my soul each day

O’ the sacred serenity
Thanks be to God for my soul’s rest
No more tumultuous tossing and turning
Freed from sin’s tempest

O’ the sacred serenity
Soothed by the Spirit’s calm breeze
As the Spirit presides over my reins
My heart settles at ease

O’ the sacred serenity
His gifts establish my role
By grace, placed within His body
A vital part of the whole

O’ the sacred serenity
Temptation desires me, to incite
My Lord strengthens and safeguards me
By infinite power and might

O’ the sacred serenity
Though, test and trials abound
They only serve to make me stronger
Yielding a faith more sound

O’ the sacred serenity
Chaos will not conquer me
Over all turmoil, I shall surely triumph
Faith in Jesus, my guarantee

O’ the sacred serenity
When I trip in transgression
For holiness, He lovingly reproves me
Leading to contrite confession

O’ the sacred serenity
Peace possible as Jesus paid my sin debt
For me, there is therefore now no condemnation
How much better can it get?

O’ the sacred serenity
Blessed be the Lord, whom I adore
Who drew me with an incomparable love
In His house, I shall dwell evermore

O’ the sacred serenity
Wrought by way of Calvary’s cross
Where Jesus died to save you from your sin
Why would you remain lost?

For sacred serenity now, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved!!!

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.
Romans 5:1-6 New Living Translation

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/22/08

Daddy’s Prayer for His Little Girl

Daddy’s Prayer for His Little Girl

Lord, thank you for my little girl
She is to me a delightfully precious little pearl

Her joyful smile illuminates even a dreary room
Just like sunshine, that chases away gloom

Her bright and breezy banter buoys my heart
So young, yet so perceptive, full of life, loving and smart

May she always perceive that beauty that fades is a lie
And consider and crave the unfading inner beauty from on high

May she be a difference maker who serves well and wisely her generation
A virtuous woman who empowers others by being an inspiration

Keep her from silver-tongued devils, bad boys, and mean men
That her beloved heart be not broken time and again

Let her not be a heartbreaker in any measure
May she appreciate the goodness in others and all life, treasure

May our family be for her, Godly exemplars
May our home prosper in joy and love enough to fill her memoirs

Let Your Spirit and truth be her guide
May Your will be the place where she desires ever to reside

In difficulty may she trust and render thanks and praise unto You
In serenity may she tender sincere steadfast devotion in serving You

I pray that she would love You with her whole essence
I pray that her greatest longing whether in life or death is to be in Your holy presence

Hear, O’ Lord my prayer for my little girl
Your grace upon her, please perpetually unfurl

The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure it is to have wise children.
(Proverbs 23:24 New Living Translation)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/19/08

Plea to Mr. Sagging Pants

Plea to Mr. Sagging Pants

Dear Mr. Sagging Pants
I would like a word with you
Hear me out; give me a chance

To say, I am a bit dismayed
By your low-riding fashion
At times with underwear displayed

Don’t be so quick to say I’m downing your way of life
I am aware that it is a free country
But, we all, at times, must sacrifice to curb confusion and strife

I just believe you can do much better
Don’t give in to temporary trifling trends
Decide instead to be an honorable pacesetter

It is said that clothes don’t make the man
But the way a man wears his clothes
Can send mixed messages about where he stands

I pray you stand for decency, for that which is right
Pull up your pants for it is good
Pull them up for it is a more praiseworthy sight

God made man to be a dignified leader
Be a Godly man, live your life in such a way that all can see
That in all things, you strive to be virtuous and God will help you be a succeeder

He who earnestly seeks after and craves righteousness, mercy, and loving-kindness will find life in addition to righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) and honor. Proverbs 21:21 (Amplified Bible)

The way of the wicked is an abomination, extremely disgusting and shamefully vile to the Lord, but He loves him who pursues righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation). Proverbs 15:9 (Amplified Bible)

RevLDReed – Servant of the Lord, Jesus Christ
I Owe Jesus
8/22/2008

Dare to Hope

Dare to Hope

There's hope when it seems all hope is gone
There’s hope even when you feel all alone
There’s hope no matter the pain of yesterday
There’s hope if you haven’t made much gain today
There’s hope when your mind dangles in a daze
There’s hope when you wander through a funky faze
There’s hope when sleep grabs and overtakes you
There’s hope as the alarm seems to prematurely awake you
There’s hope when the doctor says he’s done all he can do
There’s hope when you realize you don’t know what to do
There’s hope no matter the uncertainty of tomorrow
There’s hope when you’re so deep in debt you can’t borrow
There’s hope when your peace is swallowed by your stress
There’s hope though it seems your life has forever been a mess
There’s hope when you try to rise, but seem to always fall
There’s hope when no one answers to help when you call
There's hope when your relationship has run its course
There's hope when the job you love pushes you out by force
There's hope as eyes dim, steps shorten, and gray covers the head
There's hope even when your zest for living life is all but dead
There’s hope when you are burdened down by your sin
There’s hope in Jesus; let us present our hearts and let Him reign therein
There’s hope because, out of love for us, His precious life He gave
There's hope as Jesus is a strong deliverer, out of every distress, He can save

21 Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: 22 The unfailing love of the LORD never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. 23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. 24 I say to myself, “The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” 25 The LORD is wonderfully good to those who wait for him and seek him. 26 So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the LORD. 27 And it is good for the young to submit to the yoke of his discipline. 28 Let them sit alone in silence beneath the LORD’s demands. 29 Let them lie face down in the dust; then at last there is hope for them. (Lamentations 3:21-29 NLT)

13 “If only you would prepare your heart and lift up your hands to Him in prayer! 14 Get rid of your sins and leave all iniquity behind you. 15 Then your face will brighten in innocence. You will be strong and free of fear. 16 You will forget your misery. It will all be gone like water under the bridge. 17 Your life will be brighter than the noonday. Any darkness will be as bright as morning. 18 You will have courage because you will have hope. You will be protected and will rest in safety. 19 You will lie down unafraid, and many will look to you for help. (Job 11:13-19 NLT)


LDReedSr – Servant of the Lord, Jesus Christ
I Owe Jesus
8/19/2008

A Blessing for My Curser

A Blessing for My Curser

A secretive scorner composed to me a lengthy note
Thoroughly, passionately disparaging me as he or she wrote

There was devilish deliberation discernible in his or her prose
Joyful derision due to a sad, angry inner disposition, I suppose

I could vex my mind and waste my time in wondering who
But, that wouldn’t be beneficial, but a futile, juvenile thing to do

Instead of squandering my energy annoyed at Mr., Ms., or Mrs. nameless
I have chosen rather to pray for the need manifested by an act so shameless

One’s words allows the inner sanctum of one’s heart to be exposed
Through words, one’s mind is analyzable via the views disclosed

My anonymous, animated agitator surely is one deeply damaged by hate within
I reason that he or she has never truly experienced a love that overpowers sin

Instead of petitioning my God to rain down snares on his or her head
Jesus’ love in me, compels me to pray He would turn them in love to Him, instead

I shall mimic my Jesus, who bore my burden-hung, bled, and died on Calvary’s cross
While being mocked, empowered by love He suffered it that men be saved, not lost

To my curser with joyful love, where so ever, whosoever you may be
I truly say God bless you and I pray that Jesus would, from your sin, set you free

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven…Matthew 5:44-45a

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
8/11/2008

Do Yourself Some Good

DO YOURSELF SOME GOOD

Do yourself no harm.
If, you have been feeling downcast-sad and blue
And your mind keeps saying there is no hope in life for you.
Do yourself some good.
Seek out and take advantage of caring assistance,
Surely, you can find help, if you search with sincerity and persistence.

Do yourself no harm,
If you have erred and fallen down
And you consider yourself even lower than the ground.
Do yourself some good.
Humbly acknowledge your misstep,
Ask for mercy, and then move on with your life-take the next step.

Do yourself no harm,
If, your life seems such a complicated chore
And each day feels as distressing as the day before.
Do yourself some good.
Be grateful for the good in the life you are living,
Laugh a little, learn a new skill, and bless others-be giving, loving, and forgiving.

Do yourself no harm,
If you have lost all things that, you possessed,
Now you cannot shake the sorrow, the shame, and you are beyond doubt depressed.
Do yourself some good.
Easy come, easy go are titles, treasures, and the tabernacles wherein we reside,
But realize, life is not about what you have, but who you are inside.

Do yourself no harm,
If your relationship has reached a dead end,
Irreparably broken, and there is simply no desire to amend.
Do yourself some good.
Cease from anger, forsake wrath, and love the person even if it is best to part.
One day at a time…One-step at a time…One breath at a time, go on living as you take heart.

Do yourself no harm,
Do yourself some good.
Analyze the good that you have going your way.
God invested time in you, giving you life for one more day.
God endowed you with some talent/s for you to employ, enjoy for work as well as play.
God treasured you so much that He sent His only begotten and beloved Son to die to take your sins away.

Do yourself no harm,
Do yourself some good.
Know that God made you one of a kind with much to offer, too.
Take time to meditate on His word and treasure what He has done for you,
Believe on Jesus as your Savior and Lord, use your talents for Him as a way to say thank you.
Knowing that you are saved, in His service, and in His loving care can help you overcome feeling blue.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/15/08

To the Unloving with Love

To the Unloving with Love

I have sought you, though you seem determined to shut Me out.
I have called you, but you have been hesitant to answer because of doubt.

Yes, I want all of you, even as you feel that is too much to give.
I want to be a blessing; in communion forever, I want us to live.

Though you have been distant, I want you to be near.
Though you have been unfriendly, My desire to be your friend is clear.

While you have acted coldly, I have proved to you My affection.
You have lived loathsomely, yet I have declared to you My predilection.

I know others have hurt you-they took more than they shared.
Some abandoned you, now you believe that for you, no one ever really cared.

Your pain has turned your heart against love, even its purest displays.
Now you repel others, others repel you, for everyone mistrusts the others’ ways.

I want to win you over with My sacred, true love that is My sincere aim.
My love transcends all others, for all time, as does My holy name.

While you have been selfish, I have demonstrated to you self-sacrifice.
Though you have been as an enemy, to redeem you, I paid the ultimate price.

I died at Calvary’s cross to make obvious My love is immense and intense, too.
Respond to My love; trust in Me, I will fill you with My love, through and through.

My love within can help you love those unloving towards you.
Love as I have loved you, it is your pass to paradise; it proves your love for Me is true.

Signed

The Only Salvation There Is

The Lord Jesus Christ

P.S. Desiring Your Love – Whisper to Me a prayer, inviting Me into your heart and I promise to meet you there.

When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, He will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of His Son while we were still His enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of His Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God. Romans 5:6-11 (New Living Translation)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/9/08

Am I a Soldier of the Cross?

Am I a Soldier of the Cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
For Christ, counted all things of this world but loss?
Confirmed gold through trial by fire, emptied of dross?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Faithful, though persecuted for Jesus name?
Enduring hardship but despising the shame?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Am I following my Lord’s example?
Is my life worthy for others to sample?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Am I fulfilling my God’s sacred calling?
Am I steadily serving Him or yet stalling?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Do I give assistance when needed?
Do I aid even when funds are depleted?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
In my weakness, do I trust in His might?
In my limited vision, do I trust His sight?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Is His tried and true word the delight of my soul?
Am I telling others His word empowers and makes whole?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Am I a willing witness to His saving grace?
Or, am I more concerned about saving face?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Do I reject preaching the cross for any selfish aim?
Do I preach with seriousness, knowing this is no game?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Do I practice what I preach that others should do?
Do I strive for inner integrity, where only God can view?
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Am I giving my best to my Lord and Savior, Jesus?
He, who, readily laid down His life at the cross to free us!
Am I a soldier of the cross?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
Lord Jesus, You chose me and my judgment is by You.
I pray you will uphold me until my life is through,
Making me, each day, a more faithful soldier of the cross!

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please Him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 2 Timothy 2:3-4

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/3/08

Resolve to Survive the Famine

Resolve to Survive the Famine

But the Lord watches over those who fear Him, those who rely on His unfailing love. He rescues them from death and keeps them alive in times of famine. We put our hope in the Lord. He is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in You alone. (Psalm 33:18-22 NLT)

Reverence God – Worship Him in spirit and in truth. Love Him with all you have and are. Thank and praise Him for all of His goodness towards you and His great plans for your life, which includes salvation unto eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. Give Him first place in your heart and mind, and let your mouth be filled with His praises as you make an effort not to complain. Pray to Him for wisdom, guidance, strength, and relief for others as well as yourself. Trust in Him at all times and lead others to do the same. Learn His word and hide it in your heart that you might not sin against Him. Be filled constantly with His Holy Spirit and yield to His leading. Lift up the name of Jesus; trumpet His redemptive work. Seek your place in the body of Christ and serve the Lord faithfully.

Educate to Eradicate Waste – Learn to do well. Learn so you can do better, making the most of what you have. Develop new skills that will enhance your life. Learn to make fewer but more meaningful trips using that more expensive gas. Learn to turn your leftovers into new meals whenever possible. Learn to resist impulse buying of stuff you don’t really need and are not going to use. Waste not, want not. Learn to use portion control by learning and exercising self-control. Learn to cut back on nonessential habits or hobbies, which drain your precious and more limited resources. Learn to yield not to temptation from peer pressure, if you don’t have it to spend, you will not spend what you need for something more important, and you are to learn not to feel bad about it. Learn to budget and stick to it. Take advantage of courses or seminars in your community that can help you do more in life and get more out of life.

Sow into Others – Look for people who need help and help them as God makes opportunity and gives resources. A listening ear can go a long way. You may be short on money to give, but can lend a hand to an elderly person or other people in distress. Sound advice and/or encouraging words many times are found to be more helpful than a fistful of dollars. Join with others and really show the unity in community. Carpool to work or to the grocery store. Some families band together to eat-as in sharing materials for meals, cooking, and cleaning duties amongst themselves. Shared gardening can bring people closer together and cut costs by laboring together to produce food to be shared, sold for profit, and/or given as aid to the less fortunate. Businesses and other community entities can collaborate on some joint ventures for greater efficiency and effectiveness. To keep down confusion, discussions should be held upfront regarding expectations and limitations amongst all parties.

Observe the Signs – Tough times increase stress in our loved ones and in us. Stress leads to poor decision making and can lead to unhealthy habits which can be hard to overcome. Poor decision-making can make for increased stress. Increased stress seeks an outlet and sometimes we hold it in to the hurt of our emotional or physical health and/or sometimes we let it out in a way that hurts others who in turn hurt us. Keep yourself as best you can. Have a trusted love one or friend to confide in. Keep yourself physically by eating as healthy as you can, getting some physical exercise, and making time to rest. Have a lot of talks with Jesus, He can heal, help, and give you hope.

Love is the Essential – Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. Love will last forever. Serve one another in love. Pay all your debts, except the debt of love for others. You can never finish paying that! If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill all the requirements of God’s law. For the commandments against adultery and murder and stealing and coveting—and any other commandment—are all summed up in this one commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to anyone, so love satisfies all of God’s requirements. Don’t just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 1 Cor 13:4-8; Gal 5:13; Rom 13:8-10; Rom 12:9-10 (NLT)

Value Life – Appreciate yourself and others as the very blessed creation of God-made in His image and likeness. Be glad about the blessings that you have received from God-your life, family, and possessions-however little or much they may be- be grateful. Acknowledge the good in others and seek their wellbeing, for if you do, God will bless you accordingly. Remember that God, who is divine, exalted, flawless, and glorious without end, invested Himself in you. You may not think much of yourself, and you should have a humble estimation of who you are and what you can do, but God thought about you and so He formed you and brought you forth from your mother’s womb. In His eyes, you are somebody, treasure that!!!

Enjoy the Moment – Enjoy your time in this life for however sweet your times may be. There is a bright side to every dark situation, if we choose to believe it. No matter what happens believers have faith, that God is working things out for their good. Some situations we live through, certainly don’t feel good to us, but somewhere in it, there is good for us. A songwriter said it best, “We’ll understand it better by and by.” Decide to rejoice in each day no matter what you have going on just as the Psalmist did, when He said, “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Look ever to Jesus, Love deeply, Live well, and Laugh, when the moment is right.

With the love of Christ towards you,

Larry D. Reed, Sr.
Servant of the Lasting, Living, Loving God

I Owe Jesus
6/23/08

Into the Abyss

Into the Abyss

It is sad to behold our steady spiral into the abyss
To witness humanity in wretchedness, wandering amiss

Each day is becoming as dark as the night
We grope in the daytime, dimmed eyes, distorted sight

Many savor the darkness, supposing it is new light
Evil is the new good and wrong, the new-found right

Addiction to self is sullying what we could be
Anarchy, apathy are advancing, annihilating our would-be

Our broken compass is ever ushering us down
To the depths of delusion, despair, wherein men drown

We waywardly worship status and stuff, to our own hurt
To seize more we step on principle and people like dirt

Truth, to most, is only relative, not in anyway absolute
What is right in one’s own eyes is the unsound substitute

Shamefully, in this, the visible church has become complicit
Dramatized diluted oratory of men’s ideas is what crowds solicit

People who hold sincerely to God’s truth, we publicly demonize
While those who perilously preach for profit, we openly, idolize

The true called out community, at times, is hard to discern
The Christ-like way of life is no longer of utmost concern

We are glad, just to get our orchestrated worship and praise on
Folks falter within feet of the church doorstep, while we carry-on

We faintheartedly fear fleshly men, making them our god
We have lost the fear of our Maker, our Master-Almighty God

Father, we are weighed down by sin, headed in the wrong direction
Forgive and renew us that we may exalt You with holy affection

Thank You for Your Son sent to save us, dying, taking our place
Jesus, despite the troubling times, I am grateful that those who trust in
You shall be upheld, ascend to You, thanks to Your amazing grace

But all this will be only the beginning of the horrors to come. “Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because of your allegiance to me. And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. And many false prophets will appear and will lead many people astray. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. But those who endure to the end will be saved. And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then, finally, the end will come. (Matthew 24:8-14 NLT)

RevLDReed
I Owe Jesus
6/19/08

Sanctified Soul Music

Sanctified Soul Music

To the chief singer on my stringed instruments. Habakkuk 3:19c

Just another day that my Lord, has kept me. Just another day that I've been in my Savior’s care.

With these words, it is my sincere belief that the prophet Habakkuk showed that music can spring forth from anyone’s life. These are the last words in a chapter that started as a prayer and ended in praise. Then, He seemingly, with the last statement, knew that a person’s spoken words put in the musically gifted ears, hands, and heart of the right individual could be put to music.

Your life, too, has great musical potential, for we all have a wealth of experiences from our lives to draw from. The experiences of life give birth to music.

You here today may have a meaningful message in song within you that could possibly sell a million cd’s based merely on the things that you have witnessed and lived through. To you, it may not have rhyme or rhythm, but you need to know that it has reason and the reason is contained in the lyrics and your lyrics are derived directly from your living testimony.

People have found that their personal ‘strugglin’ and ‘strainin’ can squeeze a song or two from the storehouse of their soul’s experiences. Trials and tribulations can trigger one to exhale a gospel track from the deep treasures of one’s inner sanctum-the very core of a person’s being.

There was a Christian man who was away from home and his pregnant wife, who received a telegram that was very urgent. The telegram contained a simple message, “your wife just died.” She died but gave birth to a newborn son. When the man made it home to be with his baby boy and grieve for his wife, the child also died the night that he returned. The man buried his wife and son in the same coffin. He then isolated himself within his apartment. He felt that God had been unfair to him. A friend came by to visit on the following Saturday and encouraged him to get out. He led him to a local music school and left him alone in a room with a piano. As he sat at the piano perusing the keys, soul peace came unto him and the Lord began to download a musical masterpiece from on high into his spirit and as he tickled the piano keys these words flowed up and out:

Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, let me stand, I am tired, I am weak, I am worn.
Through the storm, through the night, Lead me on to the light. Take my hand, precious Lord, Lead me home.

That man was Thomas Dorsey, considered a father of modern gospel music. This song has touched the souls of millions around the world. It came from within one believing man’s grief-stricken soul, who felt God had done him wrong but he found out that the Lord is close to those who are brokenhearted and able to lead them through the deepest grief of their darkest night in their lowest valley of their life. Mr. Dorsey also wrote the “Lord Will Make A Way Somehow.” These songs are sanctified soul music.

If you have ever been down in the valley weighed down with a truckload of troubles and trials, but the Lord was there with you and He brought you through and He brought you out then you got a recipe to make some sweet sanctified soul music that can satisfy some spiritually hungry ears of those with hurting hearts, and burdened spirits. The redeemed of the Lord have something to say and they can say it in song.

When our ancestors endured their soul’s long and dark night, shedding countless tears from the tragedy of their captivities’ hundreds of years, they were perked up within their plight when they tuned lyrics from the rich treasury built up by the blows that were meant to beat them down.

They knew they were poor pilgrims of sorrow and felt tossed in this world alone. But, they heard of a city called Heaven and they started to make it home. Sometimes they would feel discouraged and feel their work was in vain, but then the Holy Spirit would revive their soul once again. Then, they would sing sanctified soul music in hope even in the midst of hopeless circumstances.

We 'll soon be free,
We 'll soon be free,
We 'll soon be free,
When de Lord will call us home.
My brudder, how long,
My brudder, how long,
My brudder, how long,
'Fore we done sufferin' here?
It won't be long (Thrice.)
'Fore de Lord will call us home.
We 'll walk de miry road (Thrice.)
Where pleasure never dies.
We 'll walk de golden street (Thrice.)
Where pleasure never dies.
My brudder, how long (Thrice.)
'Fore we done sufferin' here?
We 'll soon be free (Thrice.)
When Jesus sets me free.
We 'll fight for liberty (Thrice.)
When de Lord will call us home.

Sanctified soul music comes not just from our trouble, but also from our triumphs; not just from our pain but also bursts forth from pure praise from the joy of experiencing God’s saving grace.

Moses, the man of God exploded with sanctified soul music manifested in joyful praise in seeing the salvation of the Lord for “the children of Israel walked upon dry land in the midst of the sea; and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.” But, their enemies perished in the sea.

Exodus chapter 15 records a song that Moses and the children of Israel sang from the joy that bubbled up from within them. Hearken to a portion of their praise, “saying, I will sing unto the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and his rider hath He thrown into the sea. The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation: He is my God, and I will prepare Him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt Him.”

We live in an era of gospel music that prides itself on manufacturing praise and worship songs. King David ought to get some credit for being a praise and worship pioneer.

There may not ever be any sanctified soul singer such as the man whom God, Himself, declared to be a man after His own heart. Since he came before us and we are able to witness to the evidence for the book of Psalms is a book composed of prophetic praise and worship songs, and many were birthed directly out of David’s personal tragedies, triumphs, and tenacious tendency to transmit glory to God.

David wrote from his lows of being on the run from Saul and falling into personal sin to the highs of being crowned king and just totally adoring the good God of creation and the source of all joy and blessings. Solomon, David’s son, had his own lyrics published too.

Dr Isaac Watts, who wrote “Joy to the World”, “Am I a Soldier of the Cross”, “Come We That Love the Lord”, “We’re Marching to Zion” and “When I Can Read My Title Clear” is attributed with the statement, “Ministers are to cultivate gifts of preaching and prayer through study and diligence; they ought also to cultivate the capacity of composing spiritual songs and exercise it along with the other parts of the worship, preaching and prayer”

There are still modern day melody makers who are skillful in the art of making sanctified soul music. Churches are writing and composing not only lyrics for their choirs and their drama departments but the musical arrangements to go with them. Isn’t the Lord all right.

Let us not hold so closely to the old standards that we overlook and too quickly condemn a modern standard for a new generation that is certified and sanctified from the Lord on high. What God has cleansed, that call thou not common or unclean.

All that is necessary for sanctified soul music is that the words of our mouth, and the meditation of our heart, be acceptable in God’s sight. With these in order, you and your church choir can make some sanctified soul music.

The Psalmist of Psalms 104:33-34 proclaims, “I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. My meditation of Him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the Lord.”
Allow me to be a little lyrically inclined:

I’ve been up
And I’ve been down
But I never turned around
The Lord’s been good to me

I’ve been in
And I’ve been out
And I still got a reason to shout
The Lord’s been good to me

They’ve scandalized my name
But I’m going on in Jesus Name
Because He’s been good to me

Amen – So Be It

Larry D. Reed, Sr.
I Owe Jesus
Submitted this day Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Music to God’s Ears

Music to God’s Ears

What music is on your playlist on your audio system, computer, mp3 player, or satellite channel? Who is your favorite singer? What is your favorite song? What is your favorite type of music? When you feel somewhat blue, do you catch yourself moaning the blues? When you feel a bit rowdy, do you take occasion to rap a rhyme in poetic tune complete with your own voice beat?

People like all kinds of music. Some, humans have trained animals to sway to musical rhythm.

Music arouses something within us, drawing our attention with its aural sounds and/or its expressive instrumental or verbal content or message. Music more often than not, elicits a verbal, physical, or emotional response.

Since, as people, we are all different, it follows that different people like different kinds of music. What is considered good music to one may be thought of as confused noise to another. Some music grows on us quickly, while other music may gradually take hold of our mind and mouth to the point where unexpectedly we find ourselves humming a tune or jingle that we have heard sometimes years before.

We like music that is pleasing to our ear. We enjoy music that is pleasant to our sensibilities, satisfying to our familiarities, correlating to our personal experiences or desires, or reassuring to our hearts and minds, aligning with our understanding or views about life and the world we live in. Music, also, has occasion to utterly surprise us by giving voice to an idea or thought within us that we, ourselves, never found the words to truly express.

Music is categorized by genre, which speaks to the fact that it is set apart by distinguishing features. Some distinguishing features are time periods-such as the fifties, seventies, or eighties, place of origin-such as African or European, cultural context-like East Coast or West Coast, or style such as Country and Western, Urban/Hip Hop/Rap, Rock, Rhythm and Blues, Easy Listening, Folk, Classical, Christian, Southern Gospel, Contemporary Gospel, etc.

It seems there is music to mark every inflection and/or inclination of man.

The world of religion with its numerous faiths, alliances or denominations; national, regional, or local cultural differences of doctrine, practices, and worship styles of similar and dissimilar groups; and varied evangelistic attempts using promotional diversions to draw in new members has a multiplicity of tastes in music stemming from assorted motivations of the people of the various ideologies.

However, we must be honest with ourselves or face the music come judgment day. Our God is holy and He is not moved by just any beat or lyric, coming in just any form, coming from just any source, or coming from just anybody. And, neither should we be led away by Satanic Pied Pipers whose intent is to lead us to wicked worship and impure idolatrous praise.

We here today, are supposed to be burgeoning to a shared beat. We are the church founded by Jesus Christ. Christ is Christianity’s spiritual, and even musical, heartbeat. No Christ, with no death, burial, and resurrection means, no promise of eternal life, no promise of Holy Spirit power for sealing and sanctification now into eternity, and no hope in a sin sick and decaying world. If Christ did not live, die and rise again, then our faith is vain and we are of all men most miserable.

But, Jesus is real, historically verifiable, and His goes back to beginning extends into everlasting. Christians are not the only ones who verify His existence. The Koran of the Muslims contains verses in small detail of His coming and going. The Jews do not refute that He lived, and many Jewish scholars see Jesus as the complete Jew of Jews who lived a life worthy of emulation. Some Jews have come to Jesus, but most reject Him as their Messiah.

But, we, as Christians-God’s very own consecrated children, have our own record that He is alive and well. We believe that the bible is right and somebody is wrong. We have inspiration to make music because of our record, which is the Holy Scriptures, the God breathed love letter to humanity.

The Holy Scriptures declare, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” The Holy Scriptures details things He has done, is doing, and will do, yet.

The Holy Scriptures designate man and God’s special affection towards him as God’s greatest creation on this side of heaven. The Holy Scriptures detail man’s creation and fall into a sinful state leading to his separation from his Creator and Sustainer. The Holy Scriptures indicate God’s plan for man’s redemption from sin because of His great love and not man’s merit. The Holy Scriptures declare that to redeem man the Son of God-Jesus, fully God and fully man, took our place on the cross, as an atoning sacrifice, the propitiation for our sins.

He hung, bled, died, and was raised from the dead on the third day and given all authority in heaven and earth. He built His Church upon this truth. Since the Gospel came into the world men have been pressing their way into the kingdom of God through the open door of the church, Jesus Christ. He is the head of the church and the church, His body.

When one sinner repents, the Heavenly host strikes up a joyful tune and surely, it is one of our Heavenly Father’s favorite pieces of music. The angels and the informed saints on earth make music to God’s ears, celebrating how another brother or sister who once was lost but now is found has made it over and gotten the victory made possible by the work of the Lamb of God.

Since, Jesus our Savior, was proclaimed in advance of His coming by prophetic word; since He was proven to be the Christ by His divine appearance and redemptive work as foretold through prophecy; and since He has been preached in the world up to this very day that we should come to know Him as Savior and Lord, then we, the church-God’s consecrated children should sing music that is derived directly from biblical truth with theological soundness. Our very faith is founded on believing that the bible is the tried and true inspired word of God, inerrant in content because its Author is infallible, incomparable as an instructional guide for righteous living, and the inescapable measure by which all men shall be judged. We are all out here on His word. ’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to take Him at His Word; Just to rest upon His promise, And to know, “Thus saith the Lord!”

Since the church is called to be holy as God is holy, then, we, the church-God’s consecrated children-should play music that directs us into reverent worship of God. The Scriptures pronounce that God seeks worship from us that is “in spirit and in truth.” Worship that is in spirit and in truth is evident in a lifestyle of personal inner and outer uprightness as detailed in the Holy Scriptures and determined by the leading of the Holy Spirit who aligns our motivations, thoughts, and actions with the Holy Scriptures to the glory of God. Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee…

Since, Jesus has been exalted and given a name above every name, then we, the church-God’s consecrated children, should listen to music that provokes us to lift Him up in joyful praise, promoting His glory and majesty, and publicizing His many marvelous miracles wrought by His omnipotence in accord with His omniscience, and omnipresence. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth. The kingdom of this world Is become the Kingdom of our Lord And of His Christ, And He shall reign for ever and ever… Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? His name is Jesus.

Since, Jesus is our great ministering High Priest and suffering servant Savior, then we, the church-God’s consecrated children should sing, play, and listen to music that ministers to the spirit of the saints encouraging them to continue on smoothing up the rough side of the mountain knowing that they have Blessed Assurance and recognizing that serving the Lord will pay off after while. We, the church, should sing, play, and listen to music that calls out to the unsaved beckoning them to Come to Jesus by faith in His word, challenging them to try Jesus for He’s alright. Letting them know that somebody's knocking at their door. Oh, sinner why don’t you answer? Somebody's knocking at your door. It knocks like Jesus at your door. When are you going to let Him in?

If we, living truly as God’s consecrated children, should write, arrange, sing, play, and listen to such music as described above then we will be as a magnificent melody to the Master Composer of all of life’s harmonies. Music composed of biblically derived content with theological soundness from biblically driven motives guided by the Spirit to minister biblically directed praises to our Maker, help and hope to the masses melded together now and later, simply based on the merit and might of the word of God and in particular the good news of Jesus Christ shall surely be music to our Heavenly Father’s ears.

Let the godly sing with joy to the Lord, for it is fitting to praise Him. Praise the Lord with melodies on the lyre; make music for Him on the ten-stringed harp. Sing new songs of praise to Him; play skillfully on the harp and sing with joy. For the word of the Lord holds true, and everything He does is worthy of our trust. He loves whatever is just and good, and His unfailing love fills the earth. Psalm 33:1-5 New Living Translation

Amen – So Be It

Larry D. Reed, Sr.
I Owe Jesus
Submitted this day Tuesday, May 27, 2008

A Mediation Meditation for Our Nation

A Mediation Meditation for Our Nation

Once upon a time, a little guy grew into a giant,
He credited God with his mouth but his heart turned proud and defiant

By the favor of God he surpassed others in countless ways
He ascended to American idol status and relished the world’s praise

He became enamored with his own image
He failed to sincerely admit his blessings were by God’s gracious privilege

He desired in every way to take the lead
But, the will of God for himself and others, he began to scorn, slander, and supersede

He thought he truly could go it all alone
He understood not that no man or nation could make it on his own

When he began to progressively separate from his Architect
He began to experience the woes of walking in sin when God’s word, he did reject

His pride became his Achilles’ heel
He cannot bargain, brawl, or buy his way out of his imminent ominous ordeal

Pride goes before a fall, you see
The pride of a person or a people robs God of His glory

When a man or nation robs God
They invite upon themselves correction from His chastening rod

No one or nation is immune from his judgment’s hour
It’s wise for all to reverence God for His kindness, righteousness, and sovereign power

For that man or nation who grows increasingly God devoid
Shall reap what he has sown and for his rebellion risk being destroyed

To be spared, saved one must sincerely repent
May we personally and cooperatively, honor Jesus as Savior and Lord—
for us His blood was shed, His body rent

If I announce that a certain nation or kingdom is to be uprooted, torn down, and destroyed, but then that nation renounces its evil ways, I will not destroy it as I had planned. And if I announce that I will plant and build up a certain nation or kingdom, but then that nation turns to evil and refuses to obey me, I will not bless it as I said I would.
Jeremiah 18:7-10 (New Living Translation)

Godliness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.
Proverbs 14:34

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
5/24/08

Soar with God

Soar with God

But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]…Isaiah 40:31 (Amplified Bible)

Another brood of young eagles is preparing to fly away from the nest.

Parents are relieved, yet reluctant to see their wide-eyed eager eaglets take to the air. Relieved that tests have been taken and passing scores attained. And, not just class work, but tests from the school of life, such as decision making with the small degrees of guarded freedom that are allotted with maturity.

Some parents are reluctant for many wonder if their offspring are really ready for takeoff right now in a world with mixed forecasts of clear blue skies with excellent sightlines for achievement, and yet dark, tempestuous skies of malaise and uncertainty which present poor visibility and makes even the most experienced fliers apprehensive about reaching the highest altitudes of life.

Young eagles, you can climb higher, if you endeavor to soar with God.

With God, nothing shall be impossible. (Luke 1:37) In darkness, He will be your light, which illumines your path. In turbulent times, He will be your soothing balm that calms your unease. When it seems you are running on fumes and headed towards empty, He is your eternal energy source that never runs dry. When your earthly gauges fail you, God’s faithfulness will ever remain.

You can have a life that makes a difference and achieve feats of eternal worth, if you take the course charted by the divine GPS, God’s positioning system.

Isaiah 40:31 offers us a picture of what you can do, if you do what every man, woman, boy, and girl should do. If one cleaves onto God, intertwining oneself to Him by faith, seeking Him through His word and prayer; listening for His voice and hearkening unto His guidance. If one should put all of one’s hope in who He is and what He can do. If one would love Him with all of one’s heart, mind, soul, and strength, that person who would be confident and wise enough to entrust their all to Him, could not help but to rise.

By trusting, tolerant, tarrying for Him, you could rise above the troubles and trials of this world and provide incentives for others to triumph. You could rise above the heartache and heartbreak and engender events that others may be healed. You could rise above the despair and disparity and then draw in others to draw out their potential, developing them that they in turn may draw and develop others-causing the community to ascend.

Be like Jesus Christ, He was lifted up that we may be raised from our low estate. If you allow Christ to arise in your heart, knitting yourself to all that He is-trusting Him as your Lord and Savior- then your heart will not be satisfied until you see others rise with you. In Christ, you can soar to heavenly heights. Let Him lift you. He is the only way to soar with God.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
5/13/08

Mama, I want to be just like You

Mama, I want to be just like You

Mama, I want to be just like you
I want to find myself living my life as you do
I like the way you clean, the way you cook
I like the way you dress, you always have the right look

Mama, I want to be just like you
When you make a promise, to your word you try to be true
I like the way you show concern for my needs
You taught me to help others through loving deeds

Mama, I want to be just like you
You encourage me to do my best in all things I do
You know how to be tough and be tender
You have been to me as a daddy, a doctor, and a defender

Mama, I want to be just like you
You trusted God to help when resources were few
When people ran out on you, you kept on going
You did not have much but good seed, you kept on sowing

Mama, I want to be just like you
Though life looked dim, you toiled on, hoping for a brighter view
When I caused you grief and sorrow by my bad dealings
You showed mercy to me, forgave me, and put away hard feelings

Mama, I want to be just like you
When you erred, you owned up to failing to follow-through
I now realize that even the best of us make mistakes
You showed me that when one falls, they could get up, if they do what it takes

Mama, I want to be just like you
You taught me to appreciate what I have and learn to make-do
You taught me that the best gift to ever give or receive is love
You helped me believe that I-all I am-was a gift to you from God above

My daughter, Anna Grace, inspired this writing. She said, to my wife’s delight, “When I grow up, I want to be just like you.”

Mothers live in such a way as to leave a legacy of grace for your children to cherish and continue in.

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (New Living Translation)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
5/9/08

Thank You Mama

Thank You Mama

Thank you for the burden your bore
While I developed within your womb
Thank you for the promise you swore
To care for me and every need assume

Thank you for the meals you prepared
And, making sure I was neatly dressed
Thank you for any love taps I was spared
When your last nerve, I had depressed

Thank you for wiping away my tears
And aiding me during my times of trial
Thank you for heartening me to face my fears
And, encouraging me to always wear a smile

Thank you for being a woman of action
You did what was needed to keep us going
Thank you for striving, ignoring distraction
In tough times, you pressed on, not slowing

Thank you for your loving devotion
You invested in me time and attention
Thank you for your skillful promotion
And, your insightful nonintervention

Thank you for your fair and firm correction
You taught me that my actions have effects
Thank you for your spiritual predilection
Your advice leads in a way that God respects

Thank you for the memories, time cannot erase
You leave your mark in everything you do
I thank God for you, mama; you are a gift of grace
I pray His continued blessings to always be upon you

With Love, from Your Child…

“Honor your father and mother.” This is the first of the Ten Commandments that ends with a promise. And this is the promise: If you honor your father and mother, “you will live a long life, full of blessing.” (Eph 6:2-3 NLT)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
5/9/08

Are you going to leave, too?

Are you going to leave, too?

Are you going to leave,
If in your life of faith in Me, stormy winds seem to continuously blow?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

Are you going to leave,
If for your faith in Me, you endure much suffering, sorrow, and woe?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

Are you going to leave,
If due to your faith in Me, your closest companion begins to act as your foe?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

Are you going to leave,
If you work hard, but never receive material prosperity that you can show?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

Are you going to leave,
When faithless men attack your hope in Me to make you feel you are not in the know?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

Are you going to leave,
When things happen that you cannot understand leaving you perplexed and hollow?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

Are you going to leave,
If you don’t ever meet and fall in love with Mrs. or Mr. Right, your dream gal or beau?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

Are you going to leave,
When your friends and family turn away from Me, because, Me, they truly misknow?
Lord, to whom would we go?
You alone have the words that give eternal life.

John 6:64-69 (Amplified Bible) 64But [still] some of you fail to believe and trust and have faith. For Jesus knew from the first who did not believe and had no faith and who would betray Him and be false to Him. 65And He said, This is why I told you that no one can come to Me unless it is granted him [unless he is enabled to do so] by the Father. 66After this, many of His disciples drew back (returned to their old associations) and no longer accompanied Him. 67Jesus said to the Twelve, Will you also go away? [And do you too desire to leave Me?] 68Simon Peter answered, Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words (the message) of eternal life. 69And we have learned to believe and trust, and [more] we have come to know [surely] that You are the Holy One of God, the Christ (the Anointed One), the Son of the living God.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
4/18/2008

Embracing Destiny

Embracing Destiny

Destiny is bringing opportunity your way
It may close in on you with very little delay
Don’t let delay hinder your way, proceed to your destiny

Destiny arrives for some seemingly in haste
But, consider life is much too precious to waste
With deliberate haste, no time to waste, step into your destiny

When destiny comes, all at once, you may feel a slight tug
And, then it may quickly transform into a strong bear hug
Whether a little tug or a big hug, embrace your destiny

Destiny will pull you from where it had gotten easy
And, take you where you may feel just a little queasy
Move over easy, bring it on queasy, be resolved to realize your destiny

Destiny challenges your being, puts you to the test
Its design is not to bind you, but bring out your best
Come hither my best and let us trump my tests onward toward my destiny

Destiny may take you to frontiers unknown
There may be routes you must travel all alone
But even if alone, conquer the unknown, trek into your destiny

When destiny comes, fear may come to counteract
Fear desires to handcuff and shackle you, so you won’t act
Act in faith to counteract and crush fear, and then waltz into your destiny

Destiny came to visit me the other day
I did not say much for there was not much to say
What could I say but, “Praise God! It’s a new day! I shall embrace my destiny!”

Destiny has come to me in spite of my wayward past
Regardless of my faults and failures, I don’t have to be downcast
Downcast is a thing of my past, I am forgiven and on my way to my destiny

Destiny reveals that there are tests and trials for me to the fore
But, the Lord has helped me overcome so much before
Full steam ahead no matter the obstacles, I must go forth into my destiny

Within my destiny, there are battles that must be fought
Battles without and within-in my words and deeds, and even in my thought
I think I will fight on; in the end, I shall have victory for it is my destiny

Destiny knows the paths I will plod
I have a perfect example to follow in Jesus, my Savior-the Son of God
I, with my cross and its yoke, shall plod the just paths leading to my God.
To be with Him ever is my destiny

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.” Psalm 32:8-9 (NLT)

You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to honor and glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And I have no delight or desire on earth besides You. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the Rock and firm Strength of my heart and my Portion forever. Psalm 73:24-26 (Amp)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
4/11/08

Church Worship

Church Worship

Below is a prayer that one might pray
From a heart that is misguided and sadly led astray

Lord thank you for the comforts that we have positively enjoyed
The comforts are so cozy it is hard staying spiritually employed

Thank you for the steeple’s cross atop the church so high
It proclaims in our stead to the surrounding community that there is a church close by

Thank you for the blessedly firm yet amply plushy padded pews
They support our bottom lines so wonderfully as we pay our partial dues

Thank you for the color schemes earth tones, bright bold red, or kingly purpled plum
It looks so good in our sanctuary; we hate to go out to evangelize those lost in the slum

Thank you for the broad beautiful doors that let the desired demographic in
Those doors are just as good for keeping out undesirable folks from joining us within

Thank you for the superbly embroidered carpet that adorns the sanctuary floor
It’s so sacred, if people don’t have on the right attire with shoes we escort them to the door

Thank you for the choir loft precisely placed for a pleasing panorama while they vocalize
It’s most imperative to us that the choir’s robes match the surroundings to truly harmonize

Thank you for the splendid chandeliers that garnish our expansive ceiling
We pray our good paying visitors will return because they are so appealing

Thank you for the family life center we built so we, ourselves, can have more fun
We shall most certainly fabricate our own little kingdom before all is said and done

Thank you for the pretty pulpit for the new preacher we need to fill the seats in this place
We pray you will send us a figurehead with happy homiletics, someone we can showcase

Thank you for the stained glass windows that transform the light from the sun
We do cherish those windows as they keep us from being transformed by too much light from the Son

Thank you for allowing us the choice to worship a brand new edifice
Now Lord, please send us some new members we can fleece to pay off that devilish lease

Prayer: Lord, please deliver us from idolatrous building worship. Help us to fully understand that the real building of God are the saved souls that You look upon as the true Heavenly Masterpiece. Focus our hearts, minds, and actions to adding more souls to Your Heavenly Kingdom. In Jesus Name, Amen

Matthew 24:1-2 (The Message) 1-2 Jesus then left the Temple. As He walked away, His disciples pointed out how very impressive the temple architecture was. Jesus said, "You're not impressed by all this sheer size, are you? The truth of the matter is that there's not a stone in that building that is not going to end up in a pile of rubble."

Eph 2:19-22 (Amp) Therefore you are no longer outsiders (exiles, migrants, and aliens, excluded from the rights of citizens), but you now share citizenship with the saints (God's own people, consecrated and set apart for Himself); and you belong to God's [own] household. You are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus Himself the chief Cornerstone. In Him the whole structure is joined (bound, welded) together harmoniously, and it continues to rise (grow, increase) into a holy temple in the Lord [a sanctuary dedicated, consecrated, and sacred to the presence of the Lord]. In Him [and in fellowship with one another] you yourselves also are being built up [into this structure] with the rest, to form a fixed abode (dwelling place) of God in (by, through) the Spirit.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
4/10/08

How Have the Mighty Fallen

How Have the Mighty Fallen

O’ what a sad and terrible sight,
When the mighty man loses his might!

Consider how condescending, disdainful he roared before,
Trampling over honorable people, as if they were dirt on his floor.

He dwelt smugly in a seemingly secure place, dabbling in sensuous pleasure.
He cared not for the poor and needy, for he robbed them of their most meaningful treasure.

O’ how snobbishly he sauntered and strutted all about;
Desiring that others would bow in awe at his supposedly ceaseless clout.

He became lifted up in his heart and lofty in his own eyes.
He used people as a ladder, stepping on them so he could rise.

He thought he was so much superior to those who were about him.
Now he finds himself alone and on his own, he must now sink or swim.

So soon, we are apt to forget that life’s tables typically turn.
One reaps, what one sows, is an enduring lesson we all shall have to learn.

No matter how high you may aspire and assume to ever ascend;
Be careful not to think too much of yourself nor upon yourself, too much depend.

The Almighty is God alone, great in blessedness, power, wisdom, and might.
The pride of the proud angers Him; pride reveals a heart of sin not broken, nor contrite.

If we, from the error of our way, do not swiftly, sincerely be reverent and repent;
His holy anger may be stirred to wrath leading to a showering down of righteous judgment.

Let us ever be faithful preaching the grace, mercy, and justice of God, giving Him all glory.
For there are men blindly stumbling in darkness, in need of true light-the Gospel Story.

Jesus, a mighty man of grace and truth was led like a lamb to the slaughter up on Calvary’s hill;
He hung, bled, and died for our sins; rose in three days from the grave and now His name is exalted to save, call on Him and save He will!

Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it. And the mean man shall be brought down, and the mighty man shall be humbled, and the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled: But the Lord of hosts shall be exalted in judgment, and God that is holy shall be sanctified in righteousness. Isaiah 5:14-16

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
4/4/08

I Shall Rise

I Shall Rise

Be not disdainful towards me should you ever observe me in utter distress.
For the Lord, my God is my Deliverer and He shall pull me out of my mess.
And, by His love I shall rise.

Be careful of judging me as insignificant and irrelevant, writing me off too soon.
In the twinkling of an eye, the Almighty shall light my little star as bright as the moon.
And, by His grace I shall rise.

Be cautious of shamefully setting traps to trigger my slip, to orchestrate my fall.
For, you may temporarily trip me up, but “I AM THAT I AM” will catch and hold me when I call.
And, because of His righteousness I shall rise.

Be wise and attempt not to pull, prod, and provoke me to transgress.
I may falter but my Savior stands ready with compassion, with Him there is forgiveness.
And, by His mercy I shall rise.

Be it known that I may lose social contacts, status, and even worldly substance attained.
Nevertheless, as long as Jehovah-jireh is nigh, I shall ever be maintained.
For by His provision, I shall rise.

Though, my health fail and my body turn against me like my worst enemy;
My trust shall ever be in Jehovah- rapha', the Lord who heals me.
.And by His cure, I shall rise.

My imperfections may cause me to descend to the lowest depth that a living man can go.
Yet, I have staked all my hopes in a crucified, buried, and resurrected Jesus, the only real salvation any man can know.
And, because He is plenteous in redemption, I shall rise.

Christ Jesus, my Redeemer ever lives, so let come what may from day to day.
For God’s goodness sake and by His power even death, hell, and the grave have to get out of my way,
And even though one day I die in Christ-like Christ, by His power I shall rise!!!

I shall rise in spite of Satan’s attempts to produce my premature demise.
I shall rise in spite of the fact that I may never be ‘VIP’ in the world’s eyes.
I shall rise to the high call of God, press toward the mark, and from Him receive my Heavenly prize.
I shall rise for Jesus has filled my inmost being with Himself guaranteeing my ascension with Him into paradise.
I praise God, for I shall rise! I shall rise! I shall rise!!!

Rejoice not against me, O my enemy! When I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light to me. I will bear the indignation of the Lord because I have sinned against Him, until He pleads my cause and executes judgment for me. He will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold His righteous deliverance.
(Micah 7:8-9 Amp)

And God both raised the Lord to life and will also raise us up by His power.
(1 Corinthians 6:14 AMP)

RevLDReedSr
IOweJesus
3/27/2008

A Living Hope

A Living Hope

There are many things that we complain, debate, march, and even worry and write about, but to what end. Usually, there are others who complain, debate, march, and even worry and write about the opposing view that we hold. To answer the questions of how to sustain life and make it more enjoyable for its participants are the pursuit of many and the topic of most. Knowledge is more accessible, yet many of the same issues still exist that the first humans faced. What is next for our planet and its humanity? Is there life after death? The world has not provided a suitable answer.

The apostle Paul said to the Corinthians, “If we who are [abiding] in Christ have hope only in this life and that is all, then we are of all people most miserable and to be pitied. But the fact is that Christ (the Messiah) has been raised from the dead...” (1 Corinthians 15:19-20 Amplified Bible)

Christians suffer along side everyone else. There are no special supermarkets, which I have seen, with deep discounts for Christians only. I am not aware of any major universities who offer free tuition only for confessing Christians. There are no rules, as far as I know, which prohibits Christian men from going to war to fight and die for our country. Christians have marital problems and many are divorcing. Christians have problems with their children. Christians have careers and financial obligations just as others do. Christians struggle too.

Since God has blessed me with His free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, I find that I truly worry and wrestle with far fewer things in and around my life. I have more patience and peace. His love, His word, and His Holy Spirit strengthen me. He has shown me through the eyes of faith that this life is not the end. What man can behold now with his natural eye is not his final family portrait of existence. There is a another frame containing a more splendid picture which is more appealing in every way than anything our eyes have ever seen.

The difference in the life of a true Christian from those who are not is that we have a living hope for a brighter future today and on into eternity. Our hope rests in our faith that according to the scriptures, Jesus Christ-God’s beloved, and only begotten Son-died for our sins; was buried in a borrowed new tomb; and was raised from the grave three days later with all power given unto Him in heaven and in earth.

God is worthy to be praised. His loving kindness is incomparable. He is a God of unsearchable depths of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. His works are righteous, powerful, and innumerable, and His ways are mysterious.

God made this world and everything that is within. He knows all about its troubles. (Proverbs 15:3 KJV) He is aware of sin-how it overcame man and sickened his nature. Sin is man’s greatest and gravest sickness. When sin overtook us, we began to cry under the weight of its burden, its bondage. He heard our soul’s despairing cry. God sent his Son, born of a woman…to redeem… (Galatians 4:4-5 NIV)

God wanted Jesus to identify with us so we could trust Him to be faithful and true and be able to gloriously, deliver us. Jesus experienced life in this world as we do now, but without sin. He met sick people. He healed many. He experienced the hurt caused by religious and government corruption and proclaimed to them truth. He confronted people who were dishonest in their dealings with others. He saw poverty and hunger. He was compassionate and fed multitudes. He had opportunities to indulge in pleasure and make a name for Himself. However, He rebuffed Satan’s temptations to engage in sin for a season. He witnessed how death weighed down the human heart with pain, grief, and fear.

Jesus wanted to please His Father in all things even in facing death. He entrusted His life to His Heavenly Father’s care while living in this world with all of its troubles, in dying on the cross, and in being raised from the dead by God’s mighty power.

Let us do likewise. No matter our trials, let us keep our faith in Christ that He will strengthen and cause us to triumph. No matter our pain, let us keep leaning on His soothing, steadfast love. No matter our faults, let us bring them to Him confessing and truly repentant and confident in His mercy and forgiveness. When death knocks on our door, let us hold on to His promises with hope that will not disappoint.

He spoke to Martha and you and I, “I am the resurrection, and the life: He that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die.” (Matthew 11:25-26 KJV) He speaks to our hearts through John also, “I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” (Revelations 1:18 KJV)

It is folly to a fool to believe in the cross and the subsequent empty tomb. Nevertheless, as one who truly believes, I am glad and eternally blessed that He rose. Because He lives, we can face tomorrow; whatever it may bring.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

Larry D. Reed, Sr.
I Owe Jesus
4/11/2006

Enchanted Embrace

Enchanted Embrace

My love I thank God for your enchanted embrace.
Your loving arms intertwined with mine form a sweet interlace.

May we more and more, tenderly touch and hold each other close.
Each other’s entire being, let us endeavor ever for joy to engross.

Let us repeatedly reassure one another with a squeeze that pleases.
May, our cuddling be continually a comforting delight that eases.

May, our ears be soothed by the mere sound of each other’s voice.
May, our words be kind, a loving reflection that we are each other’s choice.

Let us constantly thank and praise God for our union; two became one.
Let us faithfully fulfill our vows to each other that we be not undone.
.
The ravages of time with its temptations and trials cannot pull us apart,
If each of us would chastely consider that, we are joined at the heart.

So, let my heart be yours and your heart be mine for all-time,
So, that our love will flourish like the fragrant, fine-looking flowers of springtime.

Our loving embrace is emblematic of the divine love of God demonstrated towards man.
For our sin Jesus died, now He beckons us to connect with Him eternally by clinching, in faith, His nail-scarred hand.

Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you. Rejoice in the wife of your youth. She is a loving doe, a graceful deer. Let her breasts satisfy you always. May you always be captivated by her love. Proverbs 5:18-19NLT

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
3/7/08

How Is Your Love Life?

How Is Your Love Life?

How is your love life? I trust that you feel loved. If no one else loves you, God loves you. It says so in John 3:16. John 3:16 lets us know that God so loved the world that He selflessly gave His only begotten Son. Now that is love. God spared not His Son, but sent Him to die for you and me. That is love. Jesus loves us, too. He said, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Now that is love. Jesus died for you and me. He sacrificed His body for us. That is love.

Now, what about you? Do you love God and if so, how do you show your love to God? I am sure that you have confessed that you love God. Surely, you have sung that song that says, “Oh, how I love Jesus, because He first loved me.” When you love someone, you would like them to show love back, don’t you?

Do you adore God? Surely, if you love someone you would adore them. When you think about God’s goodness does a smile just automatically appear on your face? When you think about His mercy and grace that He has showered upon you does your heart rejoice? Have you ever had an inclination to prostrate yourself before Him? When you feel His overwhelming presence, do you give in and allow His Spirit to lift you?

Do you spend quality time alone with God? Surely, if you love someone you would spend some quality time with them-you know, one on one time. Do you do that? How much time do you spend with Him? Is the thirty second or two minute prayer the extent of your time together each day? Surely, you spend more time with Him than just when you attend church, right? Do you regularly spend time with Him reading His word?

Do you think about God often? Surely, if you love someone you would think about them often. How often do you think about God? Do you think about Him only on Sunday morning, Wednesday night, during revival week, at meal time, or bed time? Or do you only think about Him when you find yourself in a bind that you have tried first to fix and failed to do so?

Do you communicate often with God? Surely, if you love someone you would communicate with them often. When you communicate with God, do you do all of the talking? When is the last time you listened to Him? Has He never asked you to help someone that you may not have if He had not asked you? Has He ever asked you to do something that required you to get out of your comfort zone?

Do you obey God? Surely, if you loved God then you would obey Him. For His word declares in 1 John 5:3, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous.” Jesus said in John 14:15, “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” We are commanded to love God. We are commanded to love Him with our hearts, souls, and minds.

So, how is your love life? Are your human relationships suffering because your relationship with God is not where it should be? Or, is your relationship with God suffering because you are more enamored with the people, the pleasures, the positions, or the possessions in your life?

I thought I knew how to love. I later learned that I did not know what love was until I heard the Good News of Jesus' love for me. The sacred and self-sacrificing love He displayed when He died upon the cross for my sin awakened a deeper sensitivity within me, which drew me to call upon Him to save me from my impoverished idea of what love was and save my soul from the wretchedness of my sin.

I, admit, my love life is not perfect, but I rejoice in that He is perfecting me day by day, taking me from glory to glory for His word and His Spirit empowers and compels me to love according to His righteous standards.

If you are not showing love for God, take this time right now to repent and return His love. I encourage you to accept His Son as your Savior and Lord and you will experience what true love is. For God Is Love!!!

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
3/6/08