Tag: dedication

When Strength Fails:

The Seduction, Humiliation, and Redemption of Samson

Brent Pollard

Samson’s story is both tragic and compelling. God predestined Samson to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Philistines, naming him a Nazarite before his conception. Despite his unimaginable strength, this judge succumbed to his desires, particularly his attraction to Philistine women. Samson was enticed, degraded, and finally felt a deep sense of reclaiming himself. The story of Samson’s descent and ultimate resilience is a powerful reminder that grace can lift us back up no matter how deep our struggles are.

Seduced by the Enemy (Judges 16.1-20)

Samson’s decline was not a sudden event but a gradual unraveling of his sense of purpose. Samson consistently broke his promises despite his dedication as a Nazirite, chosen for divine purpose. He became involved with three Philistine women: his wife from Timnah (Judges 14), a woman of ill repute from Gaza (Judges 16.1), and Delilah (Judges 16.4). It was with Delilah that he met his downfall. Despite her undeniable loyalty to the Philistines and her persistent efforts to unravel the mystery of his power, Samson eventually succumbed:

“So he told her all that was in his heart…” (Judges 16.17 NASB95)

In that moment of revealing his truth, Samson gave up his secret and the essence of his power. His assailants apprehended him, blinded him, and imprisoned him within that darkness. Samson learned that temptation rarely announces itself as destructive. Likewise, we gradually forfeit our strength and clarity when we flirt with sin. Samson lost his power because he gave his heart to the wrong person, a lesson that still resonates today and underscores the importance of discernment in our lives. However, the consequences of his misplaced trust would go far beyond losing his strength, plunging him into literal and spiritual darkness.

Humiliated by His Choices (Judges 16.21–25)

With his vision and power removed, Samson became a captive, grinding grain in a Philistine prison. However, his degradation reached new heights when the Philistines paraded him before the crowd at a festival, reveling in their mockery.

“Call for Samson, that he may amuse us.” (Judges 16.25 NASB95)

This summons wasn’t just to satisfy curiosity. The Hebrew term translated as “make sport” in the KJV conveys connotations of mockery, contempt, and possibly even sexual humiliation. This latter possibility is reflected in Potiphar’s wife’s use of this Hebrew word as she falsely accuses Joseph of attempted rape. She said Joseph was trying “to make sport of us” (Genesis 39.14 NASB). Given Samson’s infamous history with Philistine women, one can imagine their scornful laughter at his abasement, viewing it as appropriate retribution: the great warrior of Israel brought low, not by a clash of arms, but by the tender yet treacherous nature of love. In a tragic turn of events, Samson was reduced to a mere trophy, displayed to entertain a reveling crowd who joyfully worshipped their deity, Dagon.

Public transgressions frequently cause public shame. When reality reveals the consequences, what once thrilled us in solitude may become a source of scorn. Regardless of their disgrace, the Lord does not abandon repentant people. And it was only in the depths of his humiliation, chained between the pillars of the Philistine temple, that Samson realized this truth for himself.

Redeemed by Grace (Judges 16.26–30)

Blind, broken, and mocked—Samson finally cried out to God:

“O Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time…” (Judges 16.28 NASB95)

This prayer signified a watershed moment. In a moment of deep reflection, Samson summoned the courage to bow before the divine, shedding the burden of his former pride. In a moment of divine intervention, God answered Samson’s plea, and with a surge of newfound power, he toppled Dagon’s temple, taking more lives in his final act than he had throughout his entire life (Judges 16.30). This act of destruction was not a sign of Samson’s fall but a testament to his resilience. Despite his journey ending prematurely, it reached a pinnacle of resilience and spiritual strength. In Hebrews 11.32, Samson is among the revered figures honored for their unwavering faith.

Samson’s redemption journey powerfully reminds us that even broken people can still serve a purpose. He is not the God of flawless credentials but of contrite souls. When we return to Him, He can renew us even after stumbling.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Samson’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of succumbing to temptation and offers hope for redemption. His seduction and disgrace were undeniable, but his redemption was also evident. If you’ve felt you’ve stumbled through missteps, struggles, broken connections, or poor choices, know that your journey is far from over. There is a God who hears the cries of the weary and offers a hand of hope for redemption.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12.9 NASB95)

The Duty Of Courage And Strength

Brent Pollard

The Book of Joshua is a powerful account of the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan and subsequent settlement in the Promised Land under God’s leadership. This account is woven with a resounding call for courage and strength as God exhorts Joshua and the people five times (Joshua 1.6-7,9,18; 10.25). These admonitions emphasize the importance of these virtues in a life of faith, obedience, and service to God.

Though Christianity emphasizes the virtues of humility, gentleness, and forgiveness, it does not minimize the importance of courage and strength. On the path of faith, we must exhibit courage and strength to confront the inevitable challenges and adversities. Our responsibility is to be resilient and brave in the face of these hurdles.

Believers consider fear a greater sin than non-believers because faith provides them with greater motivation for courage (1 John 4.18). Thus, discouraging fear is a comfort and a call to action, encouraging believers to confront danger, responsibility, pain, loss, and even ridicule without succumbing to fear. Avoiding the path of risk may lead us astray from our divine calling while shying away from duties that appear daunting and fail to honor our commitments.

Therefore, strength is a desirable trait and a requirement for overcoming sin and fulfilling our mission. Believers must confront their inner sinful desires and external evils by facing and overcoming moral weakness, which often stems from spiritual deficiencies. Believers, like the Israelites in Canaan, must deal with these and life’s general uncertainties. 

Grave dangers and the completion of difficult tasks emphasize the importance of bravery and strength. To claim their spiritual inheritance, resist sin and temptation, and expand God’s Kingdom, believers must actively engage and struggle, just as the Israelites confronted their enemies.

Fortunately, Joshua’s pages contain the secret to courage and strength. We must recognize that these characteristics are divine gifts that, through faith and reliance on His power, even the most naturally timid can obtain. As Moses handed over the reins to Joshua, he told the people, “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31.6 NASB95).

Personal and communal victories serve as reminders of God’s faithfulness and power. They strengthen our courage to face future challenges. For example, the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites not only reinforced their faith in God’s promises but also empowered them to confront future battles. Nevertheless, the journey of developing courage and strength is ongoing, demanding the active application of divine grace. We can expand our capacity for these virtues by stepping out in faith and obedience. While developing courage and strength requires practice, individuals can enhance these traits through dedication and effort, becoming stronger and more courageous. The synergy between courage and strength equips believers with the spiritual armor needed to face life’s battles with resilience confidently.

Viewed through the Book of Joshua, God reminds us that courage and strength are virtues for the battlefield and integral aspects of the Christian life. These virtues require our continual attention and cultivation as we maneuver through the intricacies of faith, obedience, and service. Likewise, as God equipped Joshua and the Israelites for their challenges, He provided us with the same divine resources to be courageous and strong in our spiritual journey.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1.9 NASB95)

Bearing the Marks of Truth:

Living the Gospel in the Footsteps of Paul

Brent Pollard

Paul made a statement in Galatians 6.17 that is worth considering. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he declared, “From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus” (ESV). This statement raises the question: was he speaking literally? Did his fearless preaching of Jesus Christ result in physical marks? Considering the hardships listed in 2 Corinthians 11—195 stripes from the Jews, beatings with rods, and being stoned in Lystra—it’s plausible that Paul bore physical scars from these experiences. It’s unlikely any of us bear such marks for Jesus.

However, Paul’s message delves deeper than the physical scars. His letter to the Galatians also defended against accusations of being a false apostle. Critics claimed he received his message from men, not from divine revelation. Paul countered this by pointing to his scars as evidence of his apostleship and dedication to God’s truth. Thus, his physical marks were not just scars but proof of his faithfulness and the truth he preached.

This proof leads to a reflective question: if someone examined your life closely, would they see the truth of God’s Word as clearly as they might see the physical scars on Paul? It’s a challenging thought. Paul encourages us to bear the marks of Jesus, the marks of truth, in our lives. Remember Jesus’ words in John 17:17, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” (ESV). God’s word, the Bible, calls us to bear its marks in our lives actively.

Bearing the marks of Jesus Christ means living in alignment with His teachings and principles, allowing His truth to permeate every aspect of our lives. This involves reflecting His love, grace, and forgiveness in our interactions and consistently seeking to grow in understanding and applying His Word. As we embody God’s truth, we become living testimonies of His transformative power and a beacon of hope to those around us.

In conclusion, the marks of Jesus Christ that Paul bore are a profound metaphor for Christian life. Whether physical scars from persecution or the spiritual imprints of living according to Christ’s teachings, these marks signify a life committed to the gospel. Paul’s dedication serves as a reminder of discipleship’s cost and divine truth’s strength. As followers of Christ today, we are challenged to bear our own marks through our actions and life choices, not necessarily through physical suffering but through a commitment to living out His teachings. Let us strive to make the gospel’s truth visible in our lives, serving as clear indicators of our faith and commitment to Jesus Christ, thereby honoring the legacy of apostles like Paul and contributing to the witness of God’s kingdom on earth. 

Lukewarm Christians

Carl Pollard

This past week we had some miserable cold days here in Kentucky. In fact, with windchill just the other night I saw negative 10 on the thermometer! There is such a huge contrast between summer and winter. The world goes from green to brown.

Trees go from grown out to bare. And the temperature goes from hot to cold. Those are two very different things, hot and cold. But if you mix them together, you get lukewarm water. There are some Christians in scripture who are called lukewarm and trust me, it isn’t a compliment.

The first few chapters of Revelation are addressed to 7 different churches. Each congregation had some problems they needed to take care of, and in chapter 3:14-22 we read of the church in Laodicea. The letter to the church at Laodicea is the harshest out of the 7 churches in Asia Minor. In fact, from the very beginning we read that this church is spiritually dead. 

V. 14-15, “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God, says this: 15 ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot.” 

Jesus knew what they had been doing as a church, He knew their deeds. Notice that He says they are neither “cold nor hot.” This church was lukewarm. Because of their lukewarm faith, they are condemned. Revelation 3:16, “So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.” 

Hot water can purify, sanitize, and can be used to bathe. Cold water is refreshing and good for drinking. Lukewarm water can do none of these things. It is useless! The church at Laodicea understood this analogy better than anyone. To the north several miles was Hierapolis which was a city known for its hot springs. You could bathe in hot water, it was good for aches and pains, you could disinfect and clean with it. To the south of Laodicea was Colossae. It was known for having cool, clean water that was refreshing and perfect for drinking. Laodicea however drew its water from a spring 6 miles away, and by the time it flowed through the aqueduct to their city the water was disgustingly lukewarm. Certain historians described the water there as “nauseating to drink.” 

And this was God’s reaction to the church there. Not good for anything. Not cool enough to drink, not warm enough to bathe. God’s response, He spewed them out of His mouth. The church made Him sick. 

A lukewarm church, an attitude that was manifested by their deeds. Vs. 17, “Because you say, ‘I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,’ and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.”

Laodicea was known for its wealth. Apparently this attitude found its way into the church. They felt as though they needed nothing! They were convinced they had it all. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Jesus says, “little do you know that you’re wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked.” 

If Christ isn’t in our life, we have wasted our time. No amount of wealth can give us what we truly need; forgiveness. If we have become lukewarm, God has no need for us. Let’s be genuine in our faith, let’s be excited to work in God’s Kingdom! 

Laodicea was given a chance to answer the knocking savior (20), and we are too. 

Let’s let Him in!

Am I A “Seeker”?

Neal Pollard

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus states a simple but profound truth: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matt. 7:7). This is a promise! For our particular focus, notice the middle promise. If you seek, you will find! Seeking implies striving to find for one’s own interest or advantage. 

We often talk about someone who has yet to obey the gospel but who is looking as a seeker. That seems to be the thought shared by Jesus here. But seeking does not end at the baptistery steps. It is a lifestyle, an ongoing decision that may be challenged by distractions and substitutions. There are other things people seek–worldly wisdom (1 Cor. 1:22), their own righteousness (Rom. 10:3), self-interest (1 Cor. 10:24; 13:5; Phil. 2:21), pleasing men (Gal. 1:10), glory from men (1 Th. 2:6), and similar poor alternatives.

But God is seeking those who keep seeking Him and what He offers. This extends beyond the process of becoming His child. Various New Testament writers describe the seeking life.

  • Seek Christ’s kingdom above material things (Mat. 6:33).
  • Seek the glory and honor and immortality that God offers (Rom. 2:7).
  • Seek souls that can be saved (1 Cor. 10:33). 
  • Seek to use your gifts for the strength of the whole church (1 Cor. 14:12).
  • Seek the realities of heaven (Col. 3:1). 
  • Seek peace and pursue it (1 Pet. 3:11).

“The word implies serious effort, and can be used of seeking information (e.g., John 16:19) and of seeking to perform an action” (Luke 6:19)(Mangum, Lexham Theo. Wdbk., np). Have you ever searched for something valuable you owned but misplaced? The greater its value to you, the more intense and sustained your search. What Jesus offers is worth more to us than the whole world (cf. Mat. 16:26)! He wants us to have and keep a mindset that never ceases from serious effort to pursue. How can we be a daily seeker?

  • Include it in our daily prayers, that we will seek God’s will each and every day.
  • Be bold enough to make uncomfortable choices that accomplish His will.
  • Look for people who need His saving gospel and share Him!
  • Keep earthly interests and material things in their perspective, as tools to use for God’s glory and not idols to displace Him.
  • Put Him above every relationship, which means letting no relationship cause us to live contrary to His will or disobey His Word.
  • Do not let the world do our thinking for us on any moral, ethical, or similar issue.
  • Immerse ourselves in His Word, feeding and nourishing not only our soul but also our resolve.
  • Live joyfully, demonstrating thanksgiving for God’s good and perfect gifts.
  • Keep adding to this list!

That Won’t Do It

Neal Pollard

The parable of the two brothers in Matthew 21 was an early favorite of mine in childhood, though it had nothing to do with the fact that I have a brother. Of course, the focus is on each of their relationships with the Father more than their relationship to each other. Jesus is illustrating, as He often does, the fact that the sinners would accept Him before the corrupt religious leaders would. Yet, the fundamental problem of the Pharisees, as Jesus points out in this parable, is their profession without proper performance.

By application, how tragic are intentions without attending actions. The second son who said he would not but did is commended for his change of heart. Do we ever see any who follow the example of that second son?

* “I will not do it.” Jesus’ point was not to refer to that large class of people who say they will not, then follow through. Obviously, though, an unwillingness to serve Christ and those He died to save is not commendable. Keeping our word not to be involved or committed just won’t do!

* “I ought to do it.” Here’s the remark of someone with enough conscience to know what is right, but not enough desire or discipline to make the “ought” the “is.” That just won’t do! 

* “I may do it.” This is the word of someone who has decided not to decide. Tomorrow is always their best work day. They are ever deciding, but never deciding. Of course, neither will this do!

God’s ideal servant is the one who says he will, then does it. As Jesus shows in this parable, He is even pleased with the stubborn whose heart is softened. Yet, the above groups’ attitudes just won’t do, literally and figuratively!

777 Movies In A Year?

Neal Pollard

On July 5, 2023, Zach Swope’s set a Guinness World Record by watching 777 movies. The 32-year-old man did it for a cause, to raise awareness about autism and suicide awareness. He did it at a cost, even though he had an unlimited membership that allowed him to watch all these movies for $22 per month. After all, consider the time expended. He saw several movies multiple times to reach this historic milestone, including one movie (“Puss in Boots: The Last Wish”) 47 times (Source). 

While there are a multitude of applications we could observe about Mr. Swope’s endeavor, I want to focus in on just one. Zach was dedicated to be present as often as possible. He was willing to do what it took to be there because it was part of an ultimate goal. It caught the attention of others. It was the result of an attempt to fulfill a tangible purpose. 

However you feel about Swope’s use of time or money, consider an opportunity we have. The Lord and the local church provide us multiple times to come together to study the Bible each week. There are, typically, multiple opportunities to assemble to worship God together. Periodically, there are extra occasions given to study and worship through special events or classes. While merely attending these will not earn one the reward of eternal life, it can greatly aid the aim. The time spent is invaluable. Any expense or sacrifice potentially rewards and enhances life. It can certainly influence people in our lives in a most positive way! 

Perhaps the best-known passage on the subject provides the most insight on the value of attending: “And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25). What does God tell us here?

  • Assembling is deliberate–“Let us consider”
  • Assembling is cooperative–“Let us…together”
  • Assembling is purposeful–“How to stimulate one another to love and good deeds”
  • Assembling is considerate–“Stimulate one another…encouraging one another”
  • Assembling is habitual– Just as “forsaking our own assembling together” is
  • Assembling is spiritual– “As you see the day (Judgment, cf. 10:26ff) drawing near”

It is true that one can attend every service, but still not go to heaven. One’s heart might not be right there (Matthew 15:8-9). One’s life might not be right when not there (Jeremiah 7:9-10). But, it is much more difficult to go there when our approach to attending is lackadaisical, not prioritized, or deemed optional and dispensable. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to develop a reputation within our circle of influence as one as dedicated to worship as this young man was to moviegoing? 

Poetry, Legalism, Vulnerability, And Protection

Gary Pollard

I Timothy 3 concludes with a beautiful poetic sentence designed to sum up Christianity: God was shown to us in human form. 

He was morally perfect in spirit. 
The angels saw him. 
The message about him was told to everyone. 
People in the world believed in him. 
He was taken up in glory. 

4.1-6 address the teachings of legalistic people — they teach that Christians have to avoid certain practices that God doesn’t prohibit. This section can be summarized with verses 4-5: Everything that God made is good. Nothing he made should be refused if we accept it with gratitude. Everything he made is made pure through prayer.” 

9-16 wraps up chapter four, especially 9-10 — We hope in the living God who will save all people, especially those who are faithful to him. This is why we work and struggle. 

Chapter five is about each Christian’s responsibility to God’s family. It also includes a list of vulnerable members who should be provided for by the church. In that same section, 17-18, we learn that elders who lead well and dedicate a lot of their time to the church should be paid to do so, particularly those who counsel and teach. 

Being an elder isn’t easy. It’s a ton of pressure, and the qualifications are strict. So 19 includes protections for those elders: don’t even listen to an accusation against an elder unless two or three other people also witnessed what he’s being accused of. 

It’s easy to gossip about elders if we don’t like what they do. But this verse sets the standard for how we should talk about our spiritual leaders. Verse 21 takes it even further — when it comes to correcting an elder (or any other sinning member for that matter), we can’t be biased at all. Paul invokes three different ultimate-authority figures in this statement. We can’t throw someone under the bus just because we don’t like them. 

Monday Through Saturday Relationships

Gary Pollard

We get an interesting glimpse into the life of the early church in Acts 2.44-47. While it is not practical for us to live in that same way, there is one principle that we should examine. The early church spent a great deal of time together outside of their worship on the first day of the week. Acts 2.46 says, “And day by day, they were devoted to the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all of the people.” What’s going on here? The members of the church dedicated time every day to growing in their relationships with one another. To them, “church” was so much more than just showing up for worship every time the doors were open. It was the Monday through Saturday relationships that fortified their faith. 
What was the result of this dedication? “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Acts 2.47). Are we likely to live for a faith we have not invested in? Are we likely to stand up under trials if we do not have a sense of community in the church? Are we likely to resist temptation without strong ties in God’s family? The early church faced trials we could never understand, yet they remained faithful because of their strong relationships and resulting faith. 
The early church relied on constant contact with one another to help them build their faith. Nothing builds a Christian’s faith more than being around a group of people who want the same thing (to live like Christ), genuinely care for one another, and share a common goal (heaven). 

Meditation: What is it? Why do it? How do I do it?

Tuesday’s Column: Dale Mail

Daleheadshot

Dale Pollard

The concept of Biblical mediation is viewed as a mystery to many of us. The simple answer to “How do I do it?” can seem frustratingly vague. Common answers are—

“you read a passage that stands out over and over and then you think about it.”

Or maybe…

“you find a verse and then pray about it.”

Here’s what you should know about true Biblical meditation.

Three Facts About Biblical Mediation

1. It does not involve emptying your mind, but rather filling your mind with God’s mind.
2. It’s not a complex ritual in which you must reach a higher “spiritual place” to accomplish. It’s a simple act that God intended for everyone to be able to do— in order to bring you to a better spiritual place.
3. It is an intentional act. You won’t find yourself meditating accidentally. We must make time for God.
Here’s why we should all be doing this.
Four Reasons To Meditate
1. For Improved Worship
2. For Perfect Instruction
3. For Needed Encouragement
4. For Spiritual Transformation
Here’s what you will need to accomplish it.
Three Tools For Great Meditation
OBSERVATION – What does the text say?
INTERPRETATION – What does it mean in context?
APPLICATION – What does it mean for me?

Note: Combine With Prayer before and after for best results.

Here’s what you will get out of it.
Ten Benefits Of Biblical Meditation
1. Proven to lower blood pressure
2. Decrease anxiety
3. Improve heart rate
4. It enables your to relax
5. It brings peace
6. It draws you closer to God
7. It gives us confidence
8. It offers an escape from temptation
9. It provides helpful correction
10. It makes us better Bible students (Psalm 119:11)

Finally, here’s an exercise to help us see the many categories on which we can mediate. Simply answer the questions in your mind, and try to develop a habit of asking yourself personal questions about what you’re reading.

A Meditation Exercise From The Psalms
You could meditate…

On His rules (Ps. 119; look up in the ESV)
• What rules do you tend to break?
• Why do you break them?
• What’s the point behind His “rules”?

On His Promises (Ps. 119:148)
• Which of His promises bring you the most comfort?
• Has God kept His promises to you? How?

On His mighty deeds (Ps. 77:12)
• Which specific mighty deeds has God performed in the history?
• What mighty deeds do you believe God has performed in your life?
• What could God do with you today if you allowed Him to?

On His unfailing love (Ps. 48:9)
• There has never been a moment in your life when God hadn’t loved you.
• What does that tell you? What does it expose about yourself?

I hope this helps clarify what real mediation is— and how it can change your life!

person-prayer-book-bible

ROUTINE IS EXTRAORDINARY

Monday’s Column: Neal At The Cross

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Neal Pollard

It was my privilege last week to spend an hour or more visiting in my office with Bill Page, a longtime member at Lehman Avenue. He wanted to tell me about his interest and involvement in athletics, and he brought some pictures (including one of him below) to illustrate his interesting stories. There was a theme to everything this 88-year-old Korean War veteran shared with me. It was about routine.

He spoke of how important routine is in his life. Every day, despite being a widower who lives alone, he follows a strict routine from how and when he gets up to his workout regimen to his social calendar. It is not just that he has a routine, but he feels that it is essential to his functioning well physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually. He carries that ethic of keeping a routine into sharing his faith with his neighbors, studying the Bible, and teaching as he is given the opportunity. Though he is modest and unassuming, he has lived anything but a routine life. 

He played college basketball at Georgia Southern (then, Georgia Teachers College). Then, he was a marine who stayed to play in Japan and Korea in the mid-1950s. His civilian career was as a school administrator, where he served in public schools locally in addition to many years working with Christian high schools in Houston, Texas, and Miami, Florida. He also maintained his love for sports, coaching basketball. But, as a lifelong member of the church, his routine has almost always included teaching, preaching, and sharing his faith with the non-Christians he has built relationships with.

I could say much more about the great attitude and outlook Bill has, but it’s that commitment to consistency that is so remarkable. What is the road to greatness and achievement? It necessitates a certain amount of talent and knowing what that talent is, but the difference is almost always made by those who have sticktoitiveness. The unwillingness to give up and to keep plugging away is such a difference-maker in success and failure.

Solomon said, “Poor is he who works with a negligent hand, But the hand of the diligent makes rich” (Prov. 10:4). Likewise, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty” (Prov. 21:5). Again, “In all labor there is profit, But mere talk leads only to poverty” (Prov. 14:23). Over and over, Scripture lauds this ethic of steadfastness. Yet, the area where it is most important is the spiritual (Acts 2:42; 2 Tim. 2:15). 

Do you want to be an exceptional Bible student, servant of Christ, person of prayer, spiritual leader, soul winner, etc.? Establish a routine and stay with it. It will lead you to extraordinary results! Thanks for the reminder and the example, Bill!

Bill Page

“EVERYBODY WANTS TO BE A PART OF THE TEAM”

Neal Pollard

As I committed Georgia Bulldogs fan, I grimace to share this. But, Alabama head coach Nick Saban had a great quote in reaction to the student section leaving the Crimson Tide games early. I’ll quote the second part:

“If I asked that whole student section, do you want to be No. 1? Nobody would hold their hand up and say I want to be No. 4. They would all say No. 1. But are they willing to do everything to be No. 1? That’s another question. You can ask them that. I don’t know the answer” (via Saturday Football, Inc.).

With Alabama’s unprecedented success in the last decade, they’ve drawn the best High School players in the nation and they continue to develop them into seemingly unbeatable teams. Current students and those who have graduated for the last several years have just come to expect that on every given Saturday their team will win. They probably tell all their family and friends with swelling pride that they are part of Tide Nation, but for many of them game day has turned into a “ho hum” experience. Winning may not get old, but staying passionate about it must have gotten hard.

When the church is growing, making a difference and daring great things, it draws a lot of excitement. People are drawn to the active youth program, the decisive direction of sound leadership, vibrant worship, big plans, and ministries that meet pressing needs. There may be a tendency to tell everyone how great the congregation is without being very committed personally. We may show up on Sunday mornings, but not for Sunday and Wednesday nights. We may love all that is going on, but feel that affection from a distance instead of from in the midst with sleeves rolled up and hands busy helping. 

The early church was totally invested. The lot of them was “continually devoted…” (Acts 2:42). Their dedication was even measured “day by day” (Acts 2:46) and “every day” (Acts 5:42). In fact, Luke describes them as “of one heart and one soul” in their commitment (Acts 4:32). This contributed to even greater success, numerically and spiritually. Through this personal commitment, they “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6, ESV). 

I need to ask myself, “Am I willing to do everything to make the congregation I am a member of ‘number one’ in God’s eyes?” Will I do more occupy a pew for an hour? I know God wants me much more invested than that! There are visitors, shut-ins, sick, college students, teens, new Christians, erring Christians, non-members I can influence, and others who can be reached by members who see themselves as truly part of the team. Paul wrote, “We are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love” (Eph. 4:15-16). Let’s have every individual part working properly to build a great church to the glory of the great God who loves us and gave the very best for us!

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The Tender Tears Of The Timeworn Travelers

Neal Pollard

I suppose I have met more than a few elderly people, including some professing to be Christians, who could be described as “crusty,” “crotchety,” “contrary,” and “curmudgeonly.” These no doubt spent decades developing such a winning personality. But one of the greatest blessings I have received as a member of the church and minister of the gospel is my association and friendship with “senior saints.” Through the years, I have discussed with them the subject of worship. The most frequent topic of that is how precious that public time of communing is to them.

A godly widow recently told me she has spent the last two years focusing more intently on concentrating more on the song service, reflecting on the words and their meaning. Songs she has sung for decades, through this exercise, have become almost like new songs to her. Another older woman, married to an elder, talked about how she finds herself much more apt to be tearful in worship these days. She’s almost embarrassed at how emotional the experience of worship is making her. An elderly man who was a longtime elder and recently passed on to paradise, struggled to pray, sing, or publicly speak in worship without being choked with emotion. I could fill pages of writing about other godly Golden Agers who treasure assembling to worship God. Their hearts are full and their emotions engaged. Their voices may be softened and broken by age, but their spirits are stronger than ever.

When I think of these faithful, aged Christians, I am reminded of Paul’s words: “Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Cor. 4:16-18).  Sometimes, the elderly are made scapegoats of alleged “lifeless” or habitual, but heartless worship. No doubt, there are likely Christians in that age range who struggle with and even fall prey to such (as there is in every other age category). But on the whole, these Christians have walked longer with God, know Him better, and value Him more than their younger counterparts. They are closer on the journey to the Father’s house and are anxious to see His face.

We are heirs of a heartfelt heritage handed to us by these holy hoary heads. To our seasoned brothers and sisters, we thank you for showing us how to walk with and love God as years turns into decades and the shadow of the grave looms larger. As we narrow the gap between our age and yours, we want worship and life in Christ to grow more precious to us, too. Thank you for your trembling lips, your tear-stained cheeks, and your tender hearts. They look great on you!

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A Proverb To Ponder

Neal Pollard

Now, not all our attenders are members,
And not all our members are attenders,
But if all our attenders were members,
And all our members were attenders

THEN…

We’d have more trouble menders,
More gospel defenders,
And more true soul-winners!

BUT…

We’d have fewer people offenders,
Fewer spiritual hinderers,
And fewer religious pretenders!

SO…

Let us all render a more tender surrender
To the Commander of a love full of splendor!
As we meander on this earth full of sinners,
Let us engender a life with the Lord at the center.

Dying Villages (And Dying Churches)

Neal Pollard

Liza Zhakova and Dima Zharov have written an extensive expose of a phenomenon I was totally unaware of—the depopulation of villages throughout the Kostroma region northeast of Moscow, Russia. 200 villages have been abandoned and 20,000 villages have faded away, a remarkable, mystifying fact for a vast region—it counts merely “660,000 residents for its 23,000 square miles” (source). Factors contributing to this include “low living standards, high unemployment, and a lack of housing and public services” (ibid.).  The ones who have remained are an odd assortment who either prefer isolation or cannot see another way.

Appreciation for salvation, the power of the gospel and the beautiful simplicity of the restoration plea, the exalted mission of the church, and much more should cause the church to spread and grow across the nation and throughout the world despite the opposition of the darkest forces against it. But, especially in America, the statistics show a decline in total number of members even as the nation’s population rises. Last Spring, Christian Chronicle reported that over 100,000 fewer souls were members of the church in 2015 than in 1990 (source). The United States’ net population increase over that period was 70 million (source). My experience in visiting churches in various parts of the country and in visiting with brethren from all over is that most churches are not experiencing growth. Some have seen an increase in attendance, almost always as the result of transfer from other congregations (over doctrinal issues, lack of resources and activities, or even churches that have to close their doors). But instances of churches that are taking the gospel into their communities and winning souls should, per the factors cited above, have us growing like wildfire.  In especially “mission fields” and rural areas, the church is often fighting for survival. My parents and brother, for example, work in a ministry called Carolina Outreach. Through their exposure to churches in the Carolinas, they witness and work with tiny congregations fighting to keep their doors open. They lack funds and workers to get the gospel to the souls in need of the truth in that part of this nation. I have spent over 20 years as a local preacher in states that are typically considered a mission field, outside of the traditional “Bible Belt” (i.e., Virginia and Colorado). In these and surrounding states, I have been saddened to hear about churches closing their doors or simply fighting just to “keep their doors open.”

As the Lord looks down at these shrinking parts of His glorious body, His heart must be breaking. Yet, He gave us the blueprint to address this problem and to reverse this trend when He gave us the New Testament. It is not more vibrant youth programs. These are wonderful and beneficial, but many of us faithful to Christ today grew up in small churches with virtually non-existent youth programs (including Kathy and me). It is not big, beautiful buildings. These can at times cause more problems than not. It is not extremism, whether to the right or the left. Building on the foundation of man is sand (Mat. 7:24-27). It is a resource available to everyone, in rural and urban areas, in depressed or booming economies, in north, south, east or west. In a word, it is “commitment.” The first commentary on the first church begins, “They were continually devoting themselves…” (Acts 2:42). Christianity meant everything to them in their daily lives. They were dedicated to seeking the lost, dedicated to helping each other, dedicated to following their Lord and Savior. They were dedicated in prosperous and perilous times. Their living hope was so strong (1 Pet. 1:3), they persisted even in dire persecution (see the rest of 1 Peter).

What a challenge this is to me. My dedication and commitment has room to grow. My complacency and apathy must decrease and His importance in my life must increase. If the church all over catches hold of this, the familiar phenomenon of “dying churches” will be a bad memory. May God grant us the strength and courage to reverse this tragic trend. May it begin with me!

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The “Nothings”

Neal Pollard

What the child is always doing, despite evidence to the contrary (“nothing”). What is wrong with one’s spouse who sits nearby, quietly and tightlippedly fuming (“nothing”). What the interrupted person was going to say (“nothing”). The word which defines itself is “nothing.” The Bible teaches, “For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself” (Gal. 6:4).

Those low in self-esteem think of themselves as nothing. Children and spouses who are constantly told so think of themselves as nothing. Those not as wealthy as their friends or neighbors often conclude themselves to be nothing. Those unrecognized for their accomplishments can feel like they are nothing. But the inspired apostle refers to some who think themselves to be something who are actually “nothing.” The Bible makes mention of that arrogant family, The “Nothings.” They are a haughty, proud, self-involved, earthly-minded crew.

Meet The Nothings.

There Are The “Good For Nothings.” Jeremiah introduces them. He says, “This evil people, which refuse to hear my words, which walk in the imagination of their heart, and walk after other gods, to serve them, and to worship them, shall even be as this girdle, which is good for nothing” (Jer. 13:10). They were unaware of problems they had. They were evil, spiritually deaf, selfish, and idolatrous. He compares them to a good for nothing, straight from a hole in the ground, dirt-soiled belt!

No one is inherently worthless, but we can choose a lifestyle that is wicked, lukewarm, or indistinct (cf. Mat. 5:13). Christians, by our distinctive nature, are of great value to God (1 Pet. 2:9). Yet, by surrendering our Christian influence, we can become “good for nothing.”

There Are The “Brought To Nothings.” After referring to the danger of making decisions based solely on human reasoning, Jeremiah prays that God will not bring him to nothing (Jer. 10:23-24). God will rename some the Brought to Nothings, those who believe man’s ideas over God’s facts. Paul warns that God will “destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent” (1 Cor. 1:19; Isa. 29:14). The wisest and most scholarly man who discounts God’s Word will be a regretful member of the Brought To Nothings someday.

There Are The “Need Of Nothings.” These are the overly comfortable, spiritually out of shape members of the Nothings clan. They live their lives saying, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and they do not know that they “are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked” (Rev. 3:17). They aren’t really bad people, but they aren’t all that good either. They’re just quite satisfied with what they have done for Christ, which isn’t all that great and not too bad. They merely yawn through their spiritually lives, only occasionally stirring from spiritual sleep (cf. Eph. 5:14). They half-heartedly do just enough to deceive themselves into thinking they’re pleasing the Lord.

Unrelated to these Nothings are some good folks, like the Ashamed In Nothings (Phil. 1:20), Terrified By Nothings (Phil. 1:28), Anxious For Nothings (Phil. 4:6), and the Wavering In Nothings (Jas. 1:6, KJV). But the Nothings family mentioned above are black sheep in God’s family. No one should want to “take after” them.

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A LOOK AT SOME GREAT MEMBERS

Neal Pollard

Anything special, big and worthwhile a church attempts, be it a new program, evangelism, visitation, the Bible School, or a lectureship, will fail if it rests only on the shoulders of the elders, preachers, or select few. The late Wendell Winkler was fond of saying, “Programs do not work. People do.” Programs are only as effective as the people in the local church work to make them.  It is estimated that nearly a gazillion little things must be done for something of any magnitude to go smoothly, and the active, tireless labor of as many as possible makes all the difference.

Active members are so crucial to a church being successful, in God’s eyes. Here is a tribute to some very special members of a congregation:

The REMEMBERS: These are the folks who don’t “forget” events on the church’s calendar, who don’t say “Oh, was that this week?”  As you involve yourself in the church’s work, you take seriously the ever-relevant principle, “But you shall remember the LORD your God…” (Deut. 8:18). God does not like to be forgotten (Psa. 42:9; Jer. 2:32; Ezek. 22:12).

The DISMEMBERS: These are folks who are willing to sever themselves from their normal routines, preempting other events, to support an activity or event.  Such are living out Matthew 6:33 and Romans 12:1-2. God richly blesses Christians who make such decisions.  You are those who know it is better to “cut off” anything that keeps you from doing what you can for the Lord (cf. Heb. 12:1).

The EMBER MEMBERS: These are members who are involved, supporting the works and activities of the church. You have your fire lit. You want to be a better child of God. Keep the fires of enthusiasm, rededication, and determination burning brightly. We see your glow. It encourages all of us. You can help smoke out spiritual enemies even better through your faithful participation.

God bless every faithful member of His church. Your support for good works is overwhelming.  Let us use each event and opportunity to make the church, with its every member, stronger.

“What Have You Done For Me Lately?”

 

Neal Pollard

This is not just something Janet Jackson once wondered.  The late summer and early fall of each year, college football programs have alumni, boosters, and fans asking head coaches the same thing.  Companies ask the same of employees, and stockholders ask it of companies.  While it can be an unfair question, it cannot be unfair if God asks it.

God has a perfect view of our lives, knowing not only what we’ve done for Him in our past but what we are doing now.  As He looks into our lives, could He be wondering, “What have you done for Me lately?”

  • “Have you won a soul to Me lately?”
  • “Have you been in My Word lately?”
  • “Have you been to My throne room in prayer lately?”
  • “Have you and I been close lately?”
  • “Have you been involved in My Son’s work lately?”
  • “Have you been the spiritual leader of your family lately?”
  • “Have you watched your example and attitude lately?”
  • “Have you been the source of unity in My Son’s body lately?”
  • “Have you encouraged a hurting, lonely soul lately?”

These and other questions are ones He has already asked in principle, when He addresses our hearts (Mat. 15:8-9), teaches us our responsibilities (Mat. 7:21), talks about our relationship with Him (Mat. 22:37), and examines our lifestyles (Mat. 5:13-16).  We may have studied with several people in the past, taught a Bible class at some point for a long period of time, and been very close to and in love with God in days gone by.  But how is it now?  Is that really a thing of the past or does it describe the current state of things?  The wonderful news is that you can start right now, building a better relationship with Him and serving Him more effectively.  Today is as “lately” as it gets.  If your zeal is zapped and your fruit has shriveled, get busy right now restoring that.  Obviously, God will see it and He will bless you for it!