Daily Encouragement

Daily Encouragement (01/31/12) "Living By Faith"

2012-01-31T13:19:00.000-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

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A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

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Tuesday, January 31, 2012

A sunrise view from our home on a cold winter's morning
(though we have no snow on the ground presently).

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"Living By Faith"

"We live by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7).

Yesterday I received a call from Jim, a long time friend from New Jersey. He shared a burden concerning his oldest son who has been very sick the last couple of weeks and has a cancer diagnosis. Jim and his wife are carrying a heavy burden for their son and his family. When uncertainty about the future surmounts it can seem like we are in a dense cloud. And yet Jim gave testimony of how he already sees the Lord working in the matter. We prayed together over the phone for God's guidance and sustaining strength. We dedicate today's message to Jim and Dorothy and all who face sorrows like sea billows rolling.

We've all experienced times when our vision is impaired due to thick fog. It can be extremely unsettling when we're behind the steering wheel of a car and we can't see if we're veering into the other lane or toward the ditch. In northern Pennsylvania we sometimes dealt with a whiteout in the winter. But we also have experienced the thick clouds of trial, as described by the hymnwriter who wrote, "when darkness veils His lovely face."

I recall a trip many years ago when I lived in New England and had a meeting in Washington DC. Returning to Providence, RI I had difficulty getting out due to the heavy fog which canceled many flights. I actually had to stay all night at the airport (too cheap to rent a room) and early the next morning the fog was still so thick that you could barely see the planes pulled up next to the terminal.

But by mid morning the fog in the Washington area lifted and it was a beautiful day when I finally boarded the plane to return to Providence. The pilot announced that the weather in Providence was very similar to the way it had been in Washington earlier that morning. That was assuring!

On the way to Providence I could see out the window the thick clouds below us. After we descended we were surrounded by dense clouds and I could see nothing out the plane window as I intently looked for the first glimpse of the ground on the way down. We were getting very close to landing, yet we were still engulfed in clouds. Just as we crossed the access road around the airport, at the very end of the runway the ground finally appeared and within seconds we were on the ground. That's always a great feeling, and especially so on that trip!

The pilot could see no more from the front of the plane than I could see out the side of the plane. He had to rely entirely on the instruments to land the plane safely. He was carefully following a glide path, which indicated his course as he lined up to the runway. Too high, too low, or off-center were all indicated by the instrumentation that he meticulously followed since he couldn't visually line up for the landing. He was essentially flying by faith in the accuracy of these instruments and not by sight!

What a wonderful illustration of faith as we navigate through the clouds of life. God has provided absolutely reliable instrumentation in His Word. Truly we can say, "The Lord is faithful to all His promises" (Psalms 145:13b).

"We live by faith, not by sight". Some of you are doubtlessly going through very thick clouds right now in your life and perhaps there's even unexpected turbulence. By faith recognize the integrity of God's promises and trust God. He's forever faithful!

But we like to see don't we? We like to know what's going on, and we especially like to be in control of our circumstances. Much of the time we believe we really are. We think we have it all figured out. However we must remember the wise proverb, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps" (Proverbs 16:9).

God wants each step of our earthly journey to be a step of faith so that our eyes are not focused on the situation nearly so much as they are focused on Him and the continuing work He is doing in our lives. If our physical vision is limited then we will more fully rely on our spiritual vision and see that God providentially allows these foggy periods in our life for His glory and for our good. Just as the fog required the pilots to rely on their instruments rather than their sight, so our trials will cause us to focus on God, our faith and the eternal, which is where our focus should be.

Earlier I quoted a phrase from a hymn that expresses my heart today: "When darkness veils His lovely face". Those who know the hymns can complete the sentence, "I rest on His unchanging grace." Oh, for this blessed assurance to be upon each of our readers today is our prayer, especially those experiencing life in the clouds!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father help us to have the kind of faith prescribed in Hebrews 11:1 where "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." It is the kind of faith that is triumphant in the worst of circumstances because our faith in Christ is the victory that overcomes the world. We will not be overcome by life's circumstances but we will overcome by the blood of the Lamb. Praise God! Amen.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"The Solid Rock" Video Sovereign Grace Music This is the hymn referenced in the message today. It was written nearly 200 years ago and the allusion is not an auto or plane of course but rather nautical! "In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil."

"It Is Well" Video Musician not identified. Something that struck me when viewing the lyrics to this song and following yesterday's study on the Gospel is the clear presentation of the Gospel in this song!

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

This is a familiar hymn story but this account has some additional details some may be unaware of:

This hymn was written after several traumatic events in Spafford’s life. The first was the death of his son in 1871 at the age of four, shortly followed by the great Chicago Fire which ruined him financially (he had been a successful lawyer). Then in 1873, he had planned to travel to Europe with his family on the SS Ville du Havre, but sent the family ahead while he was delayed on business concerning zoning problems following the Great Chicago Fire. While crossing the Atlantic, the ship sank rapidly after a collision with a sailing ship, the Loch Earn, and all four of Spafford's daughters died. His wife Anna survived and sent him the now famous telegram, "Saved alone . . .". Shortly afterwards, as Spafford traveled to meet his grieving wife, he was inspired to write these words as his ship passed near where his daughters had died.

Bliss called his tune Ville du Havre, from the name of the stricken vessel.

The Spaffords later had three more children, one of whom (a son) died in infancy. In 1881 the Spaffords, including baby Bertha and newborn Grace, set sail for Israel. The Spaffords moved to Jerusalem and helped found a group called the American Colony; its mission was to serve the poor.

Although the original manuscript reads "know" at the end of the third line, almost all recordings and written reproductions read "say". (SCW note: Interesting in light of Romans 8:28)

"Living By Faith" Video This old hymn came to mind as I prepared today's message. I don't suppose too many these days have even heard of it.

"Till The Storm Passes By" Video An unspecified choir

Brooksyne's Note: This morning I invited my sister, Elaine, to sip some coffee with me from mugs I got at our local Thrift Store. They're made by Frankhoma Pottery which is located only about three miles from the home where we grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma so I was delighted when I spotted them a few months back. You know what it's like to find an item or a person that takes you back in memory to your childhood years. In fact we've been on a sentimental journey for the past three days during our visit together. She and her husband, Steve, reside in New Braunfels, TX and headed back in that direction today in their massive RV. Steve has prostate cancer so we dedicate today's message to him and Elaine (in addition to Jim and Dorothy), as they courageously deal with the all the medicines, treatments, and painful symptoms that result from this disease. Elaine is an attentive, loving caregiver to Steve and my heart is warmed by her diligence and dedication to his many needs.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/30/12: $1,175.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

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Personal Mission Statement
"I am created by God to bring Him glory. Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and I make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and to prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity."

How to become a child of God

Scripture references are from The Holy Bible: New International Version. © 1984 by International Bible Society; NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. and the King James Version.

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Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
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Daily Encouragement (01/31/12) "The Glorious Gospel"

2012-01-30T13:03:00.000-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

Home · About Us · Archives · Podcast · Free email · · ·

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Monday, January 30, 2012

Listen to this message on your audio player

"The Glorious Gospel"

"The glorious gospel of the blessed God, which He entrusted to me" (1 Timothy 1:11). "Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God" (Romans 1:1). "I am so eager to preach the gospel" (Romans 1:15). "I am not ashamed of the gospel" (Romans 1:16).

The "Jesus" film has been a remarkable tool in the proclamation of the Gospel all over the world. Wendy Murray Zoba writes: “In Peru, during the insurgence of the Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path), a Wycliffe couple was traveling to show the "Jesus" film in a village. Their vehicle was intercepted by the Senderos, and they feared for their lives (with just cause). Instead of killing them, however, the terrorists decided to seize their equipment, including the film projector. The husband boldly suggested that they might as well take the film reels too.

Sometime later, a man contacted them to say that he had been among the Senderos who had robbed them. He told them they watched the film seven times (out of sheer boredom), and some had been converted through it. He came to apologize and to tell of his ministry in preaching and evangelism!

Among words rich in theological meaning but increasingly cheapened is the word "gospel". For instance I came across a blog named, "The Gospel of Good Cooking" and a news headline, "The gospel of Occupy Wall Street."

The Gospel is foundationally the truth concerning the mission of Jesus Christ to earth and very specifically His atoning death, burial, and bodily resurrection. (See 1 Corinthians 15:1-4). For many who have been in Bible-preaching churches it's the old, old story but one we should be hearing and preaching unceasingly; to use the words from an old hymn "for those who know it best, seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest."

I find this succinct description helpful: "The Gospel of Christ is the message of how Jesus is the promised Messiah and how He was conceived in Mary's womb by the Holy Spirit and was born the Son of God and how He received the Holy Spirit and went forth for 3½ years preaching and doing great miracles and wonders by the power of the Father. At the end of the 3½ years Jesus fulfilled His ministry by dying on the cross for our sins on the cross of Calvary and was resurrected from the dead 3 days later by the Father." This Gospel is surely at the very core of the true church, "contending earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 3)

Let us consider three attitudes that Paul expressed concerning this Gospel in the first chapter of Romans. As I read them I ask God that they would be mine as well.

1) "Set apart for the gospel" What sets you apart? People who know me may consider the suspenders that I'm almost always wearing sets me apart (utilitarian purpose in keeping my pants up!) People try so many outward things to set them apart, but Paul states that he is "set apart for the gospel of God." We may not all be called into vocational ministry but we should all be set apart for the gospel!

2) "Eager to preach the gospel" Paul demonstrates this abundantly following his miraculous conversion to Christ. In 1 Corinthians 9:16 he states, "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!" It would seem that preachers can readily apply this, but we should all be prepared and eager to share the Gospel.

3) "Not ashamed of the gospel" This in my view is one of the greatest verses in the Bible and an essential truth to live by. The world has always been hostile to the truth that is in Christ Jesus. Paul certainly experienced this hostility and many times paid a price for his unwavering commitment to preaching the Gospel. This hostility can contribute to feelings of embarrassment, apology, or even shame to those who preach the Gospel, if they're not well-grounded in the Scriptures. The evidence is overwhelming that this hostility is increasing as is commonly expressed in various settings and on numerous fronts. And sadly many are compromising the message in order to be acceptable to the world.

Paul wrote to the Ephesian believers, "Surely you heard of Him and were taught in Him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus" (Ephesians 4:21). The "apostle's teaching", expressed in the Scriptures, form the foundation for genuine Christian discipleship. It is surely the faith delivered to the saints once for all that Jude in verse 3 instructs us to earnestly contend for.

As our world plunges into wickedness and now shamelessly revels in it and even promotes it, Christ's true church needs to stand firm for the Gospel. Today, as individuals scattered around the world, let us proclaim unashamedly the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the only power of God for salvation from sin!

We have a choice today. Do we stand up for the gospel of Jesus Christ? Or do we pursue the ever-changing philosophies and trends of our day? We really can't do both, since trying to do so will bring about compromise, frustration, lack of effectiveness and the real possibility of falling away from the truth once for all entrusted to the saints.

That's why I am not ashamed of the Gospel,
The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am not afraid to be counted,
But I'm willing to give my life,
Now I'm ready to be all He wants me to be.
Give up the wrong for the right,
I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, the philosophies, trends, and mind-set of the world stands in great contrast to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Your Word tells us that those who are not for You are against You. We can't walk on both sides of the fence so we are faced with a choice we must make; the same kind of choice Joshua gave to the Israelites thousands of years ago. We must choose whether to follow after the gods of this world and forsake You or we must forsake the world and devote ourselves to You. Father, I choose to follow after You; You who reconciled me to Yourself through Jesus. You have proven Yourself trustworthy for Your promises are true. You provide the power and presence of Your Holy Spirit to lead me and direct my every path. Your Word illumines my every thought. I choose You today, exclusively and eternally! Amen.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"What Is The Gospel?" A short message by R.C. Sproul (For those who may desire a brief but deeper theological explanation.)

"The Glorious Gospel" A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon (For those who may desire a longer and even deeper theological explanation!!!) Imagine that large crowds gathered to hear a message like this w/o the aid of sound reinforcement or PowerPoint visual aids!

"I Am Not Ashamed Of The Gospel" Video Heritage Singers with lyrics

"I'm Not Ashamed" Video Newsboys

"Tell Me The Story Of Jesus/I Love To Tell The Story" Video Homecoming

Story regarding converted terrorists: Wendy Murray Zoba, “Bill Bright’s Wonderful Plan for the World,” Christianity Today, no. 14 (July 1997), 24; as cited in Larson, Choice Contemporary Stories and Illustrations, 103.

References to examples in the paragraph of how the word "gospel" is being cheapened and misused (I am not recommending these sites!!!)
"The Gospel of Good Cooking"
"The gospel of Occupy Wall Street"

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/29/12: $1,175.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/27/12) "Serving Wholeheartedly"

2012-01-27T11:48:00.000-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

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<Previous Message · Archive edition

Friday, January 27, 2012

A happy face barn also makes my heart cheerful!
This barn is near Reinholds in northeastern Lancaster County, PA.
(Note: This photo is not doctored by photoshop. This barn really does have this smile face painted on it!)

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"Serving Wholeheartedly"

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does" (Ephesians 6:7,8). "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving" (Colossians 3:23,24).

Yesterday a celebration luncheon was held for Everett Dewald, who has the very rare distinction of having worked for the same company in the same location in Bird in Hand, PA for sixty years! The company held a surprise luncheon for all the employees to honor Everett's 60 years of service. He began working at Vallorbs in January 1952 when he was 17, since it was just up the street from his house, and he continues to show up for work every weekday morning at the age of 76!

Everett is a cheerful man whose pleasant and positive personality is appreciated throughout the company. For many years he has been singing "Happy Birthday" over the PA system to the employee who's celebrating his or her birthday (no way you can keep that fact quiet where Everett is present). One supervisor commented, "I don't think Everett ever gets up on the wrong side of the bed." I asked his wife, Linda, "Is he always so joyful at home?" Without hesitation she responded, "Yes, that's how he wakes up first thing in the morning."

Everett makes small metal parts in a job that would not be fulfilling to many folks and is certainly not glamorous. It's rather loud and the odor from the lubrication for the parts fills the factory, nothing like the Yankee Candle aromatic scent that Brooksyne likes to burn in our house. However Everett is involved in noble work that provides a benefit to society. The parts he makes goes into equipment and machinery that benefits us all.

Though other rewards will be received with our future inheritance in heaven, the solid work ethic that Everett demonstrates brings reward for the diligent worker here and now. This would include commendation from supervisors, possible promotions and pay raises within the company, providing a positive role-model for co-workers and family members, being a productive worker which increases profits within a company, fulfillment at the end of the day, a steady paycheck (in addition to many more that you might add to our list.) For Christians our work is a place to let our light shine. (Matthew 5:14-16)

The Scriptural teaching in the second and third daily text is a call to diligence. This is actually a teaching of the Apostle Paul to Christian slaves but this principle can easily be applied to secular work. Consider the phrases "Serve wholeheartedly" and "Work at it with all your heart."

In our work responsibilities we should indeed serve wholeheartedly. Christians should be diligent, and in fact, as a part of their testimony, be among the most exemplary workers any company has! What kind of employee are you? I encourage you to consider the end use of the product you are making or service you are providing and the blessing it may be to so many people.

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does."

We should apply these same principles in our work ethic toward our employers. In whatever we do, our work should be "as to the Lord." Our underlying motivation is the future inheritance we will receive "from the Lord". And what is that inheritance? It's our home in heaven that can "never perish, spoil or fade."

When we work with this attitude Scripture teaches us that in some remarkable way that "It is the Lord Christ we are serving," even more so than our employer. Perhaps that's because plenty of character building goes on in our lives as we serve others in the workplace.

May the joy of the Lord accompany you in your work today. Be sure not to keep it to yourself; spread it to others around you!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, when we're tempted to be halfhearted in our vocational work or find ourselves bored by monotonous repetition help us to find creative means that will make us even more productive and content in our work assignments. May our conduct and attitude reflect values set forth in Scripture. Make us a blessing so that we bring joy to our co-workers, supervisors, and to the workplace in general. During times of personality conflict or when disagreements arise bring to our memory the Scripture that reminds us our primary motivation for being a good worker is that we are serving You when we are diligent in our work. Not only in our service do we want to do our best but we also ask You to keep our attitudes in check and our words uplifting in the work place. Help us to be quick to see another co-worker's need and respond accordingly. May we be slow to judge and finding fault with others. Prompt us to be faithful in prayer for our employers, supervisors, co-workers, and the business in which we serve. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"How Can I Find Satisfaction In My Work?" A study booklet you can either order or read online as a pdf. Find out what the Bible has to say about work and your attitude toward it. With wisdom from the Word, Kurt De Haan shares four principles to help you better understand God’s blueprint for your work life. You’ll discover how you can experience a sense of fulfillment when you follow the “job description” God designed just for you.

"Working With Joy" Video West Coast Mennonite Chamber Choir (It was hard to find a song to go along with today's message!)

"Crown Him With Many Crowns" Video When our labors on earth are over! Congregational singing with an unidentified female lead singer. Sacred music at its best.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/26/12: $1,145.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/26/12) "Commending God's Works One Generation To Another"

2012-01-26T09:08:00.001-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

Home · About Us · Archives · Podcast · Free email · · ·

<Previous Message · Archive edition

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Brooksyne took this photo of the goldfinches in front of our office window.
Here's a larger version.

Listen to this message on your audio player.

"Commending God's Works One Generation To Another"

"One generation will commend Your works to another; they will tell of Your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and I will meditate on Your wonderful works. They will tell of the power of Your awesome works, and I will proclaim Your great deeds" (Psalm 145:4-6).

Recently Brooksyne and I were making visits in a company when Ken (pictured on the left) asked us to stop by his office. He invited us to come in, have a seat and requested that we close the door. Being in a management position I thought he might have a burden for someone else or he might share a heavy personal need.

However Ken went on to share with us a most wonderful blessing he and his wife experienced the night before. His pre-school grandson had called and excitedly told him that he had accepted Jesus as his Savior. The genuine joy that radiated in Ken’s face demonstrated a Scripture verse that the apostle John wrote, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth" (3 John 4).

Today's verse from the Psalms presents a foundational principle: "One generation will commend Your works to another." We may read this verse and see it primarily as the older generation commending God's works to the younger and throughout Scripture this is presented as a vital way of transmitting truth. But the text itself does not specify this. We may also see it as a two way exchange; we all benefit by being on both the telling and the receiving end.

What a joy to see a respectful youth listening intently to the instruction of an elder or an elder listening with genuine interest as a young person shares how the Lord is working through his or her life. This is an illustration of the wonderful God-ordained pattern for the transmission of truth.

This is such a contrast to the ongoing breakdown of the divinely ordained order in the home and local church. It counteracts the philosophy of "It takes a village" that proposes big and intrusive government is essential for the betterment of society.

This I believe greatly erodes God's original design. You see, the "village" does a very poor job in transmitting godly values from one generation to the next. This is a role ordained of God for the family and church. For the last fifty years our country has reaped the carnage the village model has inflicted upon our culture and we surely have much more reaping to come.

Consider an outline of our text:

"One generation will commend Your works to another
They will tell of Your mighty acts.
They will speak of the glorious splendor of Your majesty,
and I will meditate on Your wonderful works.
They will tell of the power of Your awesome works,
and I will proclaim Your great deeds."

As I study and ponder the text I notice this focus is on God: "Your works, Your mighty acts, Your majesty, Your wonderful works, Your awesome works, Your great deeds."

Today let us who seek to faithfully serve God in our generation make this declaration based on the daily text, "My generation will commend Your works to another; I will tell of Your mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and I will meditate on Your wonderful works. I will tell of the power of Your awesome works, and I will proclaim Your great deeds."

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, as You do awesome works in my life I can't help but tell of the splendor of Your majesty or proclaim Your great deeds. May my children and my children's children rise up and call You blessed as they see the effects of Your work in my life. I don't want to limit the transmission of the gospel to my own blood relations for I want it to spill over to all who are in my sphere of influence. As You give me opportunity to use my gifts and apply my skills, may the work of Your Holy Spirit be seen through me and draw others into a relationship with You. Amen.

Note: A daily encouragement message was not distributed yesterday (1/25/12)

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"When It's All Been Said And Done" Video Slater Armstrong

"Find Us Faithful" Video Steve Green

"When The Tears Fall" Video Tim Hughes This song has a wonderful message of faith and assurance.

Recommended Book:
Find Us Faithful: Leadership That Leaves a Legacy
By David Olford / B & H Publishing Group
Illuminating Paul's farewell address to the church elders of Ephesus found in Acts 20, Olford describes three gifts those in Christian ministry should leave behind: a personal example, a preached word, and a prepared leadership. He clarifies the responsibilities we must fulfill; reveals encouragements to be embraced; and reflects on the urgency of faithfulness. More info

Mollie and Dottie relaxing on a cold winter afternoon.

Pet Humor (not related to today's message!): Both our dogs got a real kick out of this video and you might as well!

While I am sharing some dog humor how about this, this or this. (Photos)

And finally, if you never read about my dog who was ordained see here.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/25/12: $1,120.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/24/12) "A Dead Dog"

2012-01-24T13:18:00.000-05:00

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Tuesday, January 24, 2012

We are pleased to have some snow cover which makes for wonderful photos. Michelle, a friend of ours sent us this interesting photo taken by her friend Lindsay. The finely crystallized snow looks like cotton!

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"A Dead Dog"

"David asked, 'Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?'" (2 Samuel 9:1). Mephibosheth bowed down and said, "What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?" (2 Samuel 9:8). "The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me'" (Matthew 25:40).

For many years Brooksyne has led hymn sings in area nursing centers. As expected, most of the residents are elderly but these centers sometimes have severely disabled people who make the center their home though they are not necessarily elderly.

In one particular setting she became acquainted with Bill* who regularly attended the hymn sings. Bill has a horribly disfigured face due to a congenital birth defect. He has a severe form of Sturge-Weber's syndrome, named for the two doctors who discovered the disfiguring disease. His head is nearly double the normal size, his face blotched with deep red pigmentation as though he has been through a fire. His facial and hand features are so out of proportion that he deals with curiously immature people who point and stare at him in revulsion when he is in public settings.

It seems to me people like Bill might fit in the category of those whom Jesus refers to as "the least of these" (as people rate one another’s value). Mephibosheth might be among them as well. He is among my favorite "lesser known" Bible characters. Dropped as a very small child he was "lame in both feet". His story is told in 2 Samuel 9 and, if you're not familiar with his life, you may need to read this entire chapter and some study material about him. Today's message is a summary.

He had a lot more than his share of problems and was now the sole surviving member of Saul's family with David as the king. His personal esteem couldn’t sink any lower as he saw the importance of his life to be no more than that of a "dead dog". Since dogs were not valued by the Hebrew culture (in the sense we do as pets) this self-description packs a double whammy, kind of like me referring to myself as "a dead skunk".

But David models the love of God when he sought Mephibosheth out and made a place at the King's table for him, "like one of the king's sons", not just for the evening but for the rest of his life. He gave him land and appointed servants that provided for his needs. This is an excellent illustration of generosity and grace exhibited in the Old Testament.

Some of you reading this may not be able to identify with Mephibosheth at all. Life for you has been pretty good. Most importantly you have an assurance of God's love and a network of caring people around you.

We encourage you to consider others who may need a lift today by your expression of personal interest or your gesture of kindness. David so powerfully illustrates God's grace in the fact that he didn't wait for Mephibosheth to cross his path, but actually made the necessary effort to locate him and then chose to personally bless him. How can you demonstrate that grace today to one who might be regarded as among “the least of these”?

Others reading this readily identify with Mephibosheth. Life's always been hard and you’ve wondered when and if things will ever work out. It's been one hard blow after another and you could reckon the value of your own life as that of a "dead dog". You question in your mind, ”Does anyone love me? Does anyone really care?” And here you are reading this message. God has brought you to this message and wants you to receive His love and care. He wants you to hold onto this unchanging truth that is filled with eternal hope:

God loves you and He cares about you.

The fact is, apart from the love and mercy of God every one of us are as "dead dogs". John
Newton put it this way, “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me!" We might despair if we look only to this life, so we must be mindful daily of the way God has set up His kingdom.

He calls us to endure the temporal difficulties in our life on earth, but He’s invited us to enjoy the eternal delights in our life in heaven. He has saved the best for last, but that’s OK because that’s where we’ll be forever and always, long after the troubles of this life have faded from view! I'm sure glad it's not the other way around, though, for those who choose not to enter the kingdom of God, it surely is!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, there is much that we don’t understand on this side; why some go through life seemingly with ease and little trouble, and others seem to be born with trouble that never goes away. It is not for us to understand Your ways for You are a God of mystery with greater purpose than we can comprehend, and yet You have made clear to us through Scripture that which we are to understand. Some of the very trouble we seek to avoid is what brings us to faith and causes us to live a life that is honoring to You and purposeful to others. Keep our hearts sensitive and compassionate toward those who are undervalued by the world’s standards. When we put ourselves in their place, we identify with their struggles and feel the deep hurt they experience when looked down upon and rejected by others. May we be Your tender arm of compassion and Your gentle voice of acceptance and unconditional love. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Context of today's passage: 2 Samuel 9

* Brooksyne's note: Bill is a fictional name used for privacy reasons. An interesting coincidence is that he's the first person I've ever met who was born on the very same day and year as I. When I learned this fact you might imagine that it got me thinking hard and long, “Why him and not me?” At the time, he was thought to be the oldest person living with this disorder, as most born with Sturge-Weber's Syndrome have a shortened life span. Info about Sturge-Weber's Syndrome

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"Carried To The Table" Video Leeland A song based upon the story of Mephibosheth and applying to our redemption in Christ!

"Mephibosheth" Video Sound Doctrine The story of Mephibosheth set to music!

"How Deep The Father's Love For Us" Video Selah We sure appreciate this song. It is an example of rich, sound theology in a contemporary song.

"Lame" Video An interesting presentation of the Mephibosheth story. (5:54 minutes)

Here are some helpful booklets for those who may identify with Mephibosheth (you can either order these booklets or view them online as a pdf).
"When Life is Unfair"
"Why Would a Good God Allow Suffering?"
Anchors In The Storm

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/23/12: $1,120.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/23/12) "Keep Standing"

2012-01-23T12:36:00.000-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

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Monday, January 23, 2012

Last week I shared a series of photos of barns. Galen, a local friend shared with me about his unique barn, a three level bank barn build in 1830. We had our first winter snow this weekend and I stopped by to get a photo of the barn in the snow. I know Galen wants to share more about the barn, so one of these days I expect I will share more photos and some barn history!

Listen to this message on your audio player.

"Keep Standing"

"Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel--all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him" (1 Kings 19:18).

Today tens of thousands are gathered in Washington for the annual "March for Life" commemorating the 39th anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. I don't know how many will be there this year but in the past it's numbered in the hundreds of thousands. Most assuredly there will be a very large crowd gathered, although likely the secular news media will do one of three things: ignore it, focus on some strange fringe group that in no way represents the true cause, or give coverage to the minuscule pro-abortion demonstrators who'll be out as well.

For several years I went down to Washington to participate in the Pro-Life March when I lived in northern Pennsylvania and once from New England. People come in from all over the country, such as my Aunt Mary, who though in her mid seventies, traveled each year all the way from western Missouri.

It's been several years since I last participated in this March with the committed thousands. But you can count on them every year, rain or shine, bitterly cold or pleasant weather. They take a visible stand to publicly proclaim, "We have not forgotten the estimated 55,000,000 unborn babies 'legally' murdered here in the US since 1973." I have enjoyed my association with these dedicated pro-lifers over the years, and I bless them in their stand for life and righteousness today.

Today's text may seem an unusual one for today's topic and certainly there are verses more specifically related to unborn life which I have used on similar themes in the past. But I consider the discouragement that we may face any time we take a stand on a controversial matter. Any of us standing up against the waves of evil flooding our world may wonder if we are really making a difference. Our nation is confronted with two fundamental violations today in God's created order: the sanctity of life and the sanctity of marriage.

We may wonder if our efforts matter. We may wonder if we are alone; whether it is in our own household where other family members are not believers or in the workplace where there is no other coworker who takes a visible stand for Christ.

Elijah was discouraged here on Mount Carmel. Although he had just seen a mighty demonstration by Almighty God he felt alone in his stand and expressed his despair by exclaiming, "I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too" (v. 10).

God's word of assurance to Elijah is powerful and timely for us as well: "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel--all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him." As we take a stand for Christ and stridently avoid bowing to the Baals of our age we may feel that we are alone. Be assured that God always has a faithful remnant who remain true to His Name. Keep standing for Christ and His righteousness today. You are not alone!

Be encouraged and stand faithful today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, we look at Elijah who took a mighty stand for You during the plague of unbelief that spread throughout the land of Israel. And yet there were moments when he allowed the mindset of the unbelievers, instead of the absolutes stated in Your Word, to weaken him, leading him to think that he was alone in standing true for You. But You sent word word to Elijah, that You have a remnant more interested in obeying You than bowing down to the ever-evolving philosophies of their generation. When we stand with You, Almighty God, we are a majority no matter the number of evil forces we oppose. Keep us looking upward as we walk onward in the truths of Your Holy Scripture. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Pro-Life Prayer: Father, we thank You for the courageous girls and women who, in the most difficult of circumstances, choose to give life over choosing to dispense of their "problem." We thank You for the vast groups of men and women who lend support to crises pregnancies, to those who take in and raise children who are given up for adoption. We thank You for those who have dedicated their lives to this tremendous cause, keeping it very much alive, so that those who accept it as a viable option due to its legalization in 1973 will come to realize that Your Word is the first and final authority on life, not the legislation of our day.

Bless those who speak today, those who march, and those who work among pregnant girls and women who are presently in the very midst of making a life or death decision regarding their unborn child. We also pray for those who made the wrong choice to abort, that they may find Your enduring grace that brings healing and restoration. In many instances, You have used their troubling experience to be an influencing voice for others to make a right choice. We commit the Pro-Life cause to You this day, in Jesus' name. Amen.

In Friday's message we used a verse that pointed out how Peter stood by a fire to warm himself at the time he denied Christ. A Canadian reader observes: "Peter's denial takes place over a charcoal fire and it's a charcoal fire that Jesus builds on the beach before reinstating Peter. Charcoal would have been hard to find on the beach, you normally would gather sticks to build a fire, but Jesus is recreating the sensory reminder of the previous fire, and the gospel account includes this seemingly trivial detail." That's a very interesting point!

Sanctity of Life Note: The church I pastored in Massachusetts was located on US 44, a busy highway that was the main east/west route through the city of Taunton (and main route from Providence Rhode Island to Plymouth, MA). We had a lighted message sign along the highway that was changed virtually every week by Bill and Veda, a very dedicated couple in the church. Scores of people were regularly exposed to spiritual truth in a very spiritually desolate region of the country. Through the years we got a number of positive remarks from passersby concerning these messages which was very encouraging.

However a message we placed up in January one year got some very interesting feedback. We posted this simple, unambiguous, irrefutable message: "Abortion Stops A Beating Heart." A lady who'd seen the sign called my office extremely upset. She thought there should be a law against posting such a message and threatened that she was going to check into it. She claimed her children were so upset they cried. Truth really hurts and in this case illustrates the awful blindness that sin causes.

Here's a photo I found that was taken many years ago at the "March For Life" in Washington. I am the tall man in the red jacket holding the sign! I note that there are two friends from our church standing behind me, Chris and Kandy. Jim, a pastor friend from the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, is standing in front of me. Today there will be thousands in Washington bravely participating in this peaceful demonstration. Join with Brooksyne and me in praying for them.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"Rescue The Perishing" Video Billy and Cindy Foote This couple does an outstanding job with a contemporized version of this beloved Fanny Crosby hymn. Whoever put this together also did a great job of using related photos. Here's a video (first verse and chorus only) with the original tune that was performed right here in Lancaster County!

"This Little Child" Video Although this song is some 25 years old and in my view is prophetic. It still touches my heart each time I hear it.

"Give me A Chance" (Audio) A thoughtful song written by Karl Kohlhase

"The Silent Scream" (Video) This is a classic expression and if this film were remade with the imaging technology available today it would be even more remarkable. In the 80's I read Dr. Nathanson's book "Aborting America" chronicling his conversion from being an avid proponent of abortion and founder of one of the abortion organizations to being an articulate pro-life advocate as seen in this film. (Warning: the film is very graphic.)

Her Choice to Heal, Revised and Updated By Sydna Masse / David C. Cook
The author tells her story of how she became pregnant in college, and lacking the support of the father, chose to have an abortion. Did you know that 33 percent of American women have had an abortion? And at some point, most will experience post-abortion syndrome. Revised and updated guide identifies PAS characteristics; shares personal stories of strength and change; provides spiritual and practical resources for healing; and offers hope that forgiveness, redemption, and peace are possible in Christ. 144 pages, softcover from Cook.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/22/12: $1,090.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/20/12) "Is Not My Word Like Fire?"

2012-01-20T12:56:00.001-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

Home · About Us · Archives · Podcast · Free email · · ·

<Previous Message · Archive edition

Friday, January 20, 2012

I took this photo of an Amish farm yesterday in our travels through eastern Lancaster County. It was a cold day but the sky was bright and clear, same as today but snow is in the forecast!

Listen to this message on your audio player.

"Is Not My Word Like Fire?"

"It was cold, and the servants and officials stood around a fire they had made to keep warm. Peter also was standing with them, warming himself" (John 18:18). "Is not my Word like fire? declares the LORD" (Jeremiah 23:29).

We have a fire burning in our home all the time from late October through late April. Our coal stove uses anthracite coal and heats our home with a steady supply of heat produced by burning coals. Brooksyne stands right next to the hot coal stove on a cold winter morning or after we've been out in the frigid air. Our annual delivery of coal came today and among our blessings is having a warm home in our cold winter climate!

Today's first Scripture text is not a Scripture most believers would put to memory. It's an incidental detail that provides a backdrop to Peter's infamous denial of the Lord. The troubling scene in the court of the high priest shows the disparity of Peter’s willingness only a short while earlier to fight the whole Roman garrison alone. Now he is cowering in fear, denying the Lord. Many Bible scholars feel that Mark's Gospel is likely influenced by Peter's own experience. I’m sure this was a sorrowful experience burned deeply in Peter's memory bank.

Biblical illustrations are generally cross cultural and multi-generational. Such is the case with today's second verse: "'Is not my Word like fire?' declares the Lord." Regardless of where you are reading this you are familiar with fire, something that is used for good (like heating a home, cooking a meal, or extensively used in manufacturing) or something that can be disastrous such as a house fire.

An interesting consideration not specified in this text is how God's Word is like fire. Certainly we could consider the purifying aspect of fire or its use in hardening. However, today let us consider fire in the sense of its warming qualities.

Two despondent disciples were walking on the Road to Emmaus when they encountered the risen Lord on Resurrection Day. Initially they didn’t know who He was, but when He opened the Scriptures to them they recognized Him to be the Christ. After He departed they said to one another, "Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32).

This illustrates a spiritual quality of the Word of God many have experienced. This may be through a personal reading of the Scriptures or while hearing the Word preached. This spiritual warming can be experienced in several ways:

1) Spiritual warming in the sense of conviction of sin: This aspect of God's Word can be seen in the description of the conviction that came over the 3,000 assembled on the Day of Pentecost as Peter preached God's Word. "Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37).

2) Spiritual warming in the sense of comfort and assurance: John Wesley wrote in his journal concerning his conversion: “In the evening I went very unwillingly to a society in Aldersgate Street, where one was reading Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans. About a quarter before nine, while the leader was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ alone for salvation; and an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.”

3) Spiritual warming in the sense of compulsion to serve the Lord: "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord" (Romans 12:11).

Oh Lord, please light the fire,
That once burned bright and clear.
Replace the lamp of my first love,
That burns with Holy fear.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, ignite within us the fire of Your Holy Spirit to be convicted of sin, comforted in our hour of trial, and zealous in our Christian service. We want to warm our hearts with the fire of Your Holy Spirit that is uplifting and filled with eternal hope, rather than the enemy’s fire that spreads destruction and ruin to all who are in its path. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"Oh, Lord You're Beautiful" Video Keith Green This is a live draft version that includes a thoughtful verse I had never heard before that was not on the studio version.

Oh, Lord my body's tired
But You keep reminding me
Of many holy, tireless men
Who spilt their blood for Thee

"Pass It On" Video Evie Tornquist "It only takes a spark to get a fire going" (This was "contemporary" music when we were youth!)

"Send The Fire" Video Musician not specified

"Burn In Me" Video Paul Wilbur

"Fire Of God" Video "Christ Our Life" A very thoughful song with very coordinated graphics!

A Dirty Job: It's just a short clip but if you think you have a hard job consider the work of a coal miner! I watched the full episode from a coal mine in northeast PA where they get anthracite coal.

When it's really cold Brooksyne enjoys working near the coal stove and our pets also appreciate the warmth!

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/19/12: $900.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/19/12) "Compelled by the Spirit"

2012-01-19T08:52:00.000-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

Home · About Us · Archives · Podcast · Free email · · ·

<Previous Message · Archive edition

Thursday, January 19, 2012

I took this photo of an old bank barn several years ago in Berks County Pennsylvania. Bank barns are common throughout Pennsylvania with the typical uneven terrain. The design allows direct access to both levels. I sure enjoy old barns and have been featuring photos this week and expect to share another barn photo tomorrow!

Listen to this message on your audio player.

"Compelled by the Spirit"

“And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace" (Acts 20:22-24).

When Brooksyne and I were in college we read a book that left a lasting impact on both of us. "For This Cross I Will Kill You" is an autobiography written by Bruce Olson, a young man compelled by the Holy Spirit, to live among a primitive tribe in South America. Only 19 years old at the time he was captured by the Motilone Indians and faced disease, terror, loneliness and torture to evangelize this Stone Age tribe. When we, like Olson, are compelled by the Holy Spirit, no troublesome circumstance or dissuading individual can deter us from following the divine will of God as He leads us.

Today's verse was written as the Apostle Paul was concluding his third missionary journey. He is preaching what I believe to be one of his greatest sermons; his instructional and heartfelt farewell to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:17-38). This passage is a model passage for those in ministry who've had to bid farewell to a group of believers, as the Lord moved them on to other positions of service. The chapter concludes with a moving scene at the dock as Paul left.

Paul tells these Ephesian elders the reason for his departure to Jerusalem: He is "compelled by the Spirit." Many of you have experienced this kind of leading, although it's difficult to explain to someone who has not, particularly a non-believer. Being compelled means being driven beyond our ability to resist the leading prompted by the Holy Spirit as He directs our lives. "If we can bring ourselves to that place of ultimate surrender, then we will be compelled and propelled by the Spirit into our destiny and into God's divine will for our life" (Mark E. Hardgrove).

This leading does not always make sense. Paul acknowledged that he did not know what would happen to him. He had been warned in every city by the Holy Spirit that he was to face prison and hardships. Later in his journey the disciples at Tyre through the Spirit urged him not to go (Acts 21:4) and still later a prophet at Caesarea named Agabus with great drama accurately prophesied Paul's experience and again pleaded with Paul not to go (Acts 21:9-11). Interestingly the text reads, "We and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem" (Acts 21:12). Apparently even Luke, the writer of Acts, who was traveling with Paul, joined in the pleading!

But the Spirit compelled Paul and in obedience he followed the leading of the Spirit. As had been prophesied he indeed faced prison and hardships as the remaining chapters of Acts record. Not only did he use each opportunity to witness for the Lord, but most of the New Testament epistles were written after this point. His greatest legacy is in his writings that are read as part of the Holy Scriptures by hundreds of millions throughout the church age. Paul summarized his response to the compelling work of the Holy Spirit; "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace" (Acts 20:24).

Is the Spirit compelling you today? Are you open to following God's will for your life and stepping out of your comfort zone at His leading? The apostle Paul provides a positive example of a life lived well. In his final epistle to Timothy he is able to write, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7). Today may we be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit as we walk in obedience to Christ!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, we pray for listening ears to hear the voice of Your Spirit. Help us to understand the meaning of Your leading as You walk with us along the path of Your commands, where we find contentment, peace and connectedness to You, our Lord and Master. Turn our hearts away from those things that lead away from pursuing Your purpose for our lives. We desire to be in the center of Your will. Amen.

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus" Video Casting Crowns

"He Leadeth Me" Video Candi Pearson

"Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer" Video Welsh Chapel Choir My, oh my, do these people ever sing out!

Bruce Olson is still working among the same tribal people he went to, as a teenager, in 1961! This website has some interesting material.

"For This Cross I Will Kill You" has been republished as "Bruchko"
Bruchko By Bruce Olson / Charisma House
What happens when a teenage boy leaves home and heads into the jungles to evangelize a murderous tribe of South American Indians? For Bruce Olson it meant capture, disease, terror, loneliness, kidnapping and torture. But what he discovered by trial and error has revolutionized the world of missions. Living with the Motilone Indians since 1961, Olson's efforts have sent a spiritual ripple around the world that reaches deep into the hearts of mission-minded Christians and anthropologists as well as the government of Colombia (See here for ordering info)

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/18/12: $600.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

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"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/18/12) "A Lesson From A Dull Axe"

2012-01-18T10:03:00.000-05:00

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Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Pennsylvania red bank barn in snow
(Taken by our friend Greg Schneider)

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"A Lesson From A Dull Axe"

"If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen its edge, then one must exert more strength; however, the advantage of wisdom is that it brings success" (Ecclesiastes 10:10).

Bible teacher Herbert Lockyer, who is now with the Lord, wrote a book titled "All The Promises In The Bible". In fact he wrote a series of books along this theme, "All The _____ Of The Bible" comprised of 21 volumes! Dr. Lockyer’s gifts for clearly explaining the profound truths of Scripture and helping readers apply these precepts to their everyday lives have made these inspiring books international bestsellers.

I think it would be interesting someday to develop a study on all the tools of the Bible. But in my research I don't recall ever seeing a study, let alone a book, that provides spiritual lessons from the various tools mentioned in the Bible. I feel it would be a best seller, especially for men! So let's go for one today!

Like most men, I like tools and have quite a collection accumulated through the years. My dad was a "blue collar" working man and had quite a tool shop. Through the year I inherited a number of his tools and of course through the years have bought many on my own.

The tools mentioned in the Bible such as hammer, goad, plumb line, adjustable wrench and so on each would illustrate a spiritual truth. Actually adjustable wrench is not in the Bible but probably could be a spiritual illustration! I should also note that the tool shop pictured to the right is not mine!

Today let us consider a spiritual lesson from an illustration in the Bible regarding an axe. I do not recall ever considering this passage till Jesse, an older friend of mine, called my attention to it several weeks ago as were discussing the Bible. It's a relatively straightforward statement that is pretty self evident. "If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen its edge, then one must exert more strength."

As matter of fact I have used a dull hatchet (a hatchet is essentially an axe with a short handle) and can testify to this. I've never had the patience or skills to sharpen my hatchet so I just endure the dull edge the few times I need to use it. It certainly does require more exertion of strength as I more or less hack away at whatever I am trying to chop down!

The specific spiritual lesson is found in the latter part of the verse. "However, the advantage of wisdom is that it brings success." Wisdom is a major theme in the Book of Ecclesiastes which itself is part of the section in the Bible known as the "Wisdom Literature".

As God's children we need to be growing in our spiritual wisdom. This will in turn lead to success. I feel this is primarily speaking of spiritual success, living in a manner pleasing to the Lord and attaining the ultimate most important form of success which is hearing our Lord's words, "Well done, good and faithful servant". We are blessed to have the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. (see 2 Timothy 3:14-16).

May the Lord help us all to keep our axes sharp!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father we thank you for the truths expressed in Scripture that reveal the way to wisdom. Your Word states that if any of us lacks wisdom, we should ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to us. So we ask that we may present to You a heart of wisdom. This wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. As we attain that wisdom may our lives be as a sharpened axe, useful for the purpose You ordained, leading to a life that pleases You. In Jesus Name, Amen

James 1:5, Psalm 90:12, James 3:17

I wrote a Daily Encouragement message called "Lessons From A Broken Axe"

A list of tools in the Bible.

For those who enjoy Bible quizzes: I was searching for a quiz on tools of the Bible. Some of you may find this Bible quiz site interesting. It does have a quiz that has some tool questions!!! (Quiz 52 Workers and Tools)

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"Blessings" Video Laura Story This is one very thought-provoking song regarding how we perceive blessings from God. Here's the story behind the song, a good teaching!

"Everything We Need" Video Acapella

"Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise" Video Jaron and Katherine Kamin

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/17/12: $490.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/17/12) "Holding Unswervingly"

2012-01-17T10:45:00.001-05:00

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Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Red Barn in snowy Wisconsin
(taken by my cousin)

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"Holding Unswervingly"

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful" (Hebrews 10:23).

I'm an avid football fan and especially enjoy the level of play in the post season. Using a football illustration may be somewhat ineffective (for some) since many readers likely do not enjoy football and international readers may be unfamiliar with the game. American football is quite different than what is called football in many other countries which we call soccer here in the states. In our football strategy we extensively use the hands.

A critically important and fundamental skill of football is holding onto and keeping a tight grip on the ball. This last weekend, as I watched a game, the announcer commented prior to halftime that the coach needed to stress the fundamentals again due to the many dropped balls. A news story following the game read: "The Packers lost their grip on the football Sunday, and as a result, they lost their grip on the Lombardi Trophy. The Packers played uncharacteristically, losing three fumbles and dropping five passes in a stunning 37-20 divisional playoff loss to the Giants at Lambeau Field."

In life there are many ways in which it is imperative that we hold unswervingly and keep a tight grip such as our commitment to our marriage, our family and our integrity.

But the most essential tight grip is seen in our daily text: "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess." Other versions state, "Let us hold fast without wavering" and "Without wavering, let us hold tightly."

The text begins with the words "Let us" which is known as the hortatory subjunctive. This is my favorite preaching and writing style whether I am the listener and reader or whether I am the preacher or writer. One of the first sermons I ever preached was from Hebrews and throughout the message I repeatedly used the phrase "Let us". After the message a listener thanked me for the salad sermon (lettuce)!

The author of Hebrews uses this phrase "let us" twelve times. When I read this book or hear sermons preached using this phrase (also known technically as the cohortatory) I am encouraged, as it seems the author or preacher is leading me, not pushing me. The writer conveys that he was facing the same circumstances as his readers so he presents a form of personal resolve in his writing.

I believe today's text is the singular key text in the entire book. This call to faithfulness is directed to the earliest believers who were the initial recipients of this Scripture and to all others through the ages of the Church, including us today. That's a vital way we read the Scriptures.

We are to "hold unswervingly to the hope we profess." Of course primarily this hope we profess is the hope we have in Christ. Earlier in the book we read, "we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end" (Hebrews 6:11).

And this hope we profess is absolutely secure, "for He who promised is faithful." Rest in this wonderful assurance today and join me in holding unswervingly to our hope in Christ!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, in this ever-changing society where transition is continually beckoning, You are the Changeless One. As we hold tightly to the hope we have in You we will not be pulled to the right nor to the left. You will keep us on course as You go before us instructing, inspiring and empowering us in our spiritual walk, for You who promised are faithful. May we keep a tight grip to Your hand that upholds us when we stumble, keeping us from being cast down. We thank You for Jesus who keeps a firm grip on us allowing no enemy to snatch us out of His hand. We hold unswervingly to You, the faithful One. Amen.

See Psalm 37:24; John 10:29

Yesterday we joined our friend Mary Ann Miller for her 60th birthday luncheon. We enjoyed our visit with Mary Ann and her husband, Lloyd, along with family members and co-workers, complete with a Lancaster County favorite, Whoopie Pies that she had made! The derivation of this food is quite interesting in light of the fact that Mary Ann was old order Amish as a child and still has many connections to that faith. Amish women would bake these desserts (known as hucklebucks at the time) and put them in farmers' lunch pails or lunch boxes. When they would find the treats in their lunch, they'd shout "Whoopie!" Furthermore it is thought that the original Whoopie pies may have been made from cake batter leftovers. (That would be consistent with the resourcefulness of the Amish.) Here's a photo of whoopie pies and an article.

We passed a most unusual rural mailbox yesterday here in Lancaster County! I suppose I could create a photo collection of colorful mailboxes we pass such as here, here, here and here (Doris High).

Yesterday we met a creative entrepreneur who is building up a local IT business named "Nerds R Us". He had his car covered with advertising and contact information which you see a lot more these days, but I thought his most creative approach was placing a small clear plastic business card holder on the window inviting passersby to take a business card! When you consider how many times your car is parked in the public where people walk by, you might as well get some free advertising in the process.

A reader shared this note in regard to yesterday's message: I was fired from a company for not discharging 35 white/gray-collar workers fast enough. At age 55 I was devastated and forgot God was in absolute control. I didn't realize it at the time what an incredible blessing my firing would be. I started my own business and never looked back and have developed more than 10,000 customers I never would have met had I still had a "real" job. Our God is an awesome God and trusting Him explicitly regardless of the circumstances is the key to happiness. Praise God. (Stephen: I happen to know this reader personally and he got into insurance sales. He also sees his work as a means of letting Christ's light shine through him and ministering to others, so the increase in contacts actually gives him a larger ministry platform.)

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"Press On" Video Selah

"I Am Resolved" Video Dailey & Vincent

"My Hope Is In The Lord" Video Tommy Coomes Band

"My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less" Video Sovereign Grace Music

"In Christ Alone My Hope Is Found" Video Geoffe Moore & Adrienne Liesching

Today's photo of the red barn in the snow was taken by my cousin who lives in Wisconsin. We haven't had any significant snow in our area since a storm in October. I for one always enjoy a few nice snow storms in the winter!

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family
Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/16/12: $490.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/16/12) "Intended For Good"

2012-01-16T11:29:00.000-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

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Monday, January 16, 2012

On the way home from church yesterday we passed an Amish farm with distinct evidence that they were also having a church service. (The Amish meet in homes for church services purposefully rotating among the homes of church members.) This farm is along Sunnyside Road near Mount Joy, PA.

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"Intended For Good"

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20).

I heard a dynamic testimony from Larry Wright, a Christian businessman friend that really touched my heart. He shared how he had worked hard all his life, arising in position and stature until he was the president of a large national company. Under his leadership the company did very well and he was really enjoying his work. However, due to a principled stand he took on an issue, he was fired.

He shared of his deep hurt and the budding bitterness that began to consume his emotions. But he kept his faith through the painful testing, and in God’s timing another position opened up where he was able to use his business skills for the Lord in a parachurch ministry. He felt led to write a letter to the man who fired him and testified of God's work in his life. He actually expressed thanks for this man's part in the fulfillment of God's plan!

When we are hurt by others our faith and character are tested by how we respond, forcing us to settle this question: Is God really in charge or isn’t He? Of course He's in charge, absolutely, completely, all the time, even when others have hurt us with intent, the most painful type of hurt.

Joseph certainly knew hurt and he had a long wait to see God's greater plan come about. Yet he stayed faithful to God and when things finally came together he could reassure his fearful brothers as he did in the daily text. He realized that, although his brothers had intended him harm (and they surely did!), God has an amazing way of overriding the evil intent of others and aligning the "fallout" from their actions to His intended purpose.

Living here below we've all been hurt by the words or actions of others. Yesterday we sang, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus", written by Joseph Scriven in 1855. The line gripped me: "Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?" Brooksyne shared an interesting background to the hymn: Scriven, who lived in Canada, had been away from his mother in Ireland for ten years and learned that she was going through difficulty; some accounts speak of a misunderstanding that she had with a close friend and others indicate that she was ill. He wrote a comforting letter, enclosing the words of his newly written poem, with the prayer that these brief lines would remind her of a never-failing heavenly Friend.

I still wince when I pull from my painful memory file some particularly vicious sheep bites over the years of my pastoral ministry. But since I now view them in hindsight, I can more clearly see how God worked through the situation and how He worked in my life, building strength of character as He tested my faith for genuineness as I was put through the scourge of refining fire (I Peter 1:7).

Keep your faith and wait for God's timing as He most assuredly is working out His purpose in your life. Don’t allow bitterness to brew lest you sip on the poison afterward and develop a tainted view toward God and others in general. One day perhaps you'll write a letter of thanks to the one who hurt you and, like Joseph, testify that God intended it for good, for He always has a much bigger and better plan!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, we’re reminded of the amazing and unpredictable way You work all things together for good when we read the story of Joseph, from the time of his youth to his final breath. Instead of scheming for revenge he sought to relieve his brothers. He comforted their troubled hearts with the reassuring message; You sold me, but God sent me. Help us to recognize that when we are hurt by other’s words or actions, You surpass their debilitating impact on our lives by the greater plan You’re working in us; teaching us to trust You implicitly, forgive unreservedly, and to be molded into the character of Christ who gave His all in the midst of hateful injustice. Evil was present, but the much greater purpose was that we might be saved from our sins through His submission to Your overall plan. We thank You in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday morning we had our friends John & Faithe Keefer and Jesse & Wilma Dourte over for breakfast and several hours of great fellowship.

Yesterday afternoon Mike and Nicole Martin as well as Ron and Shirley Sipe joined us as we enjoyed some pizza and several hours of fellowship again!

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

"Trust His Heart" Video Brooksyne's note: I remember when I first heard this song in 1992 as I was praying at my kitchen table. God had revealed to Stephen and me that He wanted us to move on in our ministry after serving a church in northern Pennsylvania for nearly sixteen years, but He had not shown us when or where the place was to be. As I listened intently to these words I was reminded that our future was in His hands and in the midst of our uncertainty we could "trust His heart." It was a very memorable spiritual experience and I pray that this truth will minister to your needs as well.

"What A Friend We Have In Jesus" Video Homecoming series with Larry Ford. Here is a background story of the hymn prepared and read by Brooksyne. mp3

"Follow Me" Video Homecoming series with Larry Ford An Ira Stanphill song with a testimony by his wife shortly after he died. An outstanding song of commitment to Christ.

"I Will Not Offer Anything That Costs Me Nothing" Video Bobby Michaels

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family
Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
2012 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 1/15/12: $490.00 We express thanks to all who support our ministry!

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement (01/13/12) "The Words Of The Wise"

2012-01-13T13:59:00.001-05:00

Daily Encouragement Net
A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.

Having trouble reading this message? Read mobile edition online

A daily, Bible-based message of hope, encouragement and exhortation.
The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber.

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Friday, January 13, 2012

"The words of the wise are like goads."
These oxen are being spurred along by means of an ancient farm implement, the ox goad.

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"The Words Of The Wise"

"The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails--given by one Shepherd" (Ecclesiastes 12:11).

Several days ago I received an email informing me that Edward Menaldino, an esteemed senior brother in the Lord was quite ill. Over thirty years ago this brother spoke a word of truth into my heart by quoting a Scripture text that has since become my life verse (1 Corinthians 15:58). Yesterday in the course of my chaplain work I had an opportunity to challenge a young man with that very same verse who is seeking to live his life for Christ. Furthermore it occurs to me that I am now very close in age to the older minister when he spoke to me, and the young man is the same age as I when I received the word! * What comes around goes around! I received a word from the wise and sought to pass it on.

There are teachings in the Bible that require a bit of historical research to understand even though they would have likely been more easily understood at the time they were written. Today's verse is an example concerning the words of the wise. Let's consider three characteristics of these "words of the wise":

1) "They are like goads." I suppose many of our readers would not know what a goad is, since it's not a part of our daily vocabulary! The goad is a traditional farming implement, used to spur or guide livestock, usually oxen, which are pulling a plow or a cart. Today some farmers use a cattle prod. I joined my neighbor once as he was preparing to load finished hogs in a truck on the way to market and saw the workers use a prod to goad them along into the truck.

The goad is a long stick with a pointed end. Perhaps it's most peculiar use involved Shamgar who killed 600 Philistines with an ox goad (Judges 3:31). I still recall an Old Testament professor explaining this verse and pointing out an ox goad is a "stick with a prick on the end." An obscure verse likely rarely considered indicates their value in the economy of the day.

By way of a spiritual analogy the goad is similar to the conviction of the Holy Spirit revealing truths that function like "goads" (pointed sticks) prodding us on to live in the right way. Consider Acts 2:37 describing the response of the crowd at Pentecost to Peter's message; "When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do?'" Later the word actually is used at Saul's testimony of his conversion, "I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads'" (Acts 26:14). When God uses His Holy Spirit to convict us of sin, or as a means of directing us, it may initially be a very painful or uncomfortable stirring within our hearts!

2) They are "like firmly embedded nails." What a powerful word picture for those who have tried to remove a nail firmly embedded in a piece of wood. Just like embedded nails, may the principles of God's Word be firmly embedded in our minds and hearts.

Nails in their crudest form date back to 3,000 BC, some 2,000 years before Solomon lived. Our spiritual application is in regard to having the truths of God's Word firmly embedded in our hearts.

Consider the photo of two rusty nails driven into some rough, gnarly wood, perhaps a fence post or a power line pole. At some point the nails were bent and now after many years they show the rust as they've weathered moisture and age. At this point these nails are very firmly embedded in the wood. If you've ever removed nails you might picture the effort likely required to pull them out and the creaking sound you would hear!

We have a role in allowing God's Word to be firmly embedded in our hearts. We read, study, listen to godly teaching, memorize and hide God's Word deep in our hearts. The Word in time becomes firmly embedded like the nails in the photograph. When Satan's siftings are experienced we might be put through the grinder of fear or doubt, but in Christ we remain steadfast, firm, and immovable!

3) They are "given by one Shepherd" It seems to me that the "words of the wise" and "collected sayings" ultimately refer to the Word of God. Due to the divine inspiration of Scripture these wise words and collected sayings are indeed given by one Shepherd, although various human agents were involved.

Ecclesiastes ends with this powerful truth that completes the thought: "Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil" (Ecclesiastes 12:13,14). Keep this in mind as you live for Jesus today!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, we recognize the spiritual, emotional, and physical strength that comes from relying on truths and principles established in Your Word. Impress them deep upon our hearts like embedded nails so that we hold firmly to them. Otherwise we get lax and are led astray from the paths You've laid out for us. Much like the oxen we need the goading or prodding of Your Holy Spirit to keep our hearts in check and our will submitted to Your leading. Keep us faithful we pray. In Jesus' name. Amen.

* "Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:58). I very specifically recall the time I was being examined for my ordination nearly 33 years ago. Only 24 years old at the time, I was sitting at a massive conference table with the elders who had served in ministry for many years. After written tests (4-5 hours), essays, background checks, references and so forth this was the final step in my approval for ordination. These tried and proven elders (we use the term Presbyter) asked various questions concerning my call to ministry, Bible knowledge, doctrinal understanding and so forth. It was very stressful and wearying.

As the meeting came to a close I recall one of the presbyters, Edward Menaldino, a very distinguished Italian minister who pastored a large church on Philadelphia's south side, stood up, paused, and made direct eye contact with me. He then solemnly and slowly quoted this Scripture portion from memory with the Spirit's anointing. Given his age and the time probably the KJV: "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord."

Perhaps that's why this passage has stood out over the years as it has been a source of encouragement through our many years of Christian service. Only God would know that the church we were planting at the time would have many ups and downs, difficulties would abound. Of course in various ways that has been the case wherever or however I have served the Lord. I would need the Spirit's prompting to never shrink back, but "always give myself fully to the work of the Lord knowing that my labor in the Lord is not in vain."

That's a word for you as well, dear friend. No matter what God has called you to do, give yourself fully to it, and know that your work is not in vain. He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. You may not see the fruit of that victory at the present, but trust God that He will reveal it to you in due time. (See Galatians 6:7-10)

Literal & spiritual meaning of the nail illustration: I consider just looking at today's photo of the nails driven into the post and how hard it would be to remove them. I would probably need to drive a flat-bladed screw driver in and bend them out enough to get a claw hammer in. Then I would probably need to strike the claw hammer on the handle with another hammer and hope the nail head doesn't break off. I might have to hit the nail back and forth to loosen it. I would then hope to hear a creaking sound as the whole nail slowly is removed!

Yesterday I visited with Lee, a friend who shared about an area near Sarasota Florida where a lot of the Plain or old-order folks visit in the winter. He showed me several interesting photos he had taken including this interesting looking mode of transportation. It is powered by solar panels on top although I don't know if there's an alternative power source. Notice the front of a John Deere lawn tractor. Apparently it balances similar to a Segway but I can't tell from the photo how they steer it.

These children look like they're really enjoying a blueberry flavored ice cream cone!

Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

“Ancient Words” (Video)
Ancient words, ever true
Changing me, changing you
We have come with open hearts
O let the ancient words impart.

"I Know Whom I Have Believed" Video Traditional tune sung Acapella This song came to mind due to the phrase "I know not how the Spirit moves, convincing men of sin, revealing Jesus through the Word, creating faith in Him." That speaks of the goading power of the Holy Spirit! Here's the same song to a bit of an updated tune. Video
Here's a nice instrumental version with lyrics. Video

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Weber family
Christmas 2011
"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!"

Personal Ministry Update (Revised 12/11)

2011 financial offerings to Daily Encouragement Net as of 12/31/11: $21,391.00 This is the final 2011 accounting We want to express thanks to all who support our ministry! Beginning next week we will resume accounting annual 2012 offerings YTD.

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Daily Encouragement Net
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552
Contact us

Endorsed chaplain

"Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation"
www.dailyencouragement.net