Don’t Miss Out!

Posted on April 7, 2021 by Arrow

I cannot stop thinking about something I heard on Easter, something the disciples totally missed again and again, something that should have given them excitement and hope for that Sunday morning 2000 years ago. After Jesus spoke repeatedly and specifically of His imminent death and resurrection, the disciples should have been outside that tomb waiting to see the stone roll away and the Son of God walk out … but, they missed it!

Now, think of Jesus’s birth in Bethlehem. How did the wise men or magi 1000 miles away know that a Hebrew king had been born while the religious leaders in Jerusalem and those in Bethlehem, except for a few shepherds, had no clue? The wise men, probably astrologers from Persia or Arabia, knew the prophecies and saw the signs.

So, what’s next? One thing we know for sure is Jesus is coming back, and this time, no one will miss it. Jesus described His return like this:  “For the Son of Man in his day will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other” (Luke 17:24). “And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other” (Matthew 24:31).

May you be among the believers gathered to Jesus on that great and glorious day.

Don’t miss out!

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Prophecies Fulfilled

Posted on March 31, 2021 by Arrow

When someone makes a promise, it does not necessarily mean the promised action will occur at that moment. Likewise, a delay in seeing the promise fulfilled does not mean it will never happen. Check out a few of the prophecies regarding Jesus’s resurrection, some of which were predicted nearly 1000 years before His birth!

Written by King David who reigned 1010-970 B.C.:
“You will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay” (Psalm 16:10).

The prophet Isaiah dedicated an entire chapter (701-681 B.C.) detailing Jesus’s suffering and crucifixion:
“After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many and he will bear their iniquities. Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors” (Isaiah 53:11-12). God could share the spoils of victory with Jesus only if Jesus rose from the dead.

Recorded by Jesus’s disciple, Matthew:
“From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life” (Matthew 16:21). A similar verse is recorded in Mark 8:31.

In Jesus’s own words:
“The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life” (Matthew 17:22-23). Also see Luke 9:22.

Clearly, God revealed His plan and Jesus fulfilled His purpose, defeating death. Today Jesus is on the throne. He is in control and is waiting to fulfill the promise of His return, when He will gather His people to live with Him forever. It will happen!

Happy Easter! He is risen indeed!

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Your Treasures

Posted on March 24, 2021 by Arrow

Remember (or imagine) that youngster who was perfectly content with a small jewelry box? Her treasures consisted of a few inexpensive trinkets won at the pizza place, some interesting rocks found at the park, and a special gift from her grandma.

As she grew older, her treasures got pricier. And, so did his. Soon her treasures were stored in a tall, ten-drawer jewelry cabinet and his were securely tucked away in a five-foot safe that resembled a small bank vault. But, are the contents inside truly our greatest treasures?

Scripture warns us, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven …. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21).

Pondering what “treasures in heaven” might be, I thought of a booklet I keep near my Bible. In it are memory verses, those I’ve learned as well as those on my ‘to do’ list. But actually, that booklet is not even my treasure. The ‘treasure’ is what is stored in my mind and heart, the memorized verses that provide a word of encouragement, hope, or strength, or even a timely rebuke or reminder.

God’s Word is a ‘treasure’ that cannot be stolen. Each verse is a ‘gem’ that transforms our thinking and enriches our lives. It can also be part of our arsenal in combatting sin.  “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11).

I challenge you this week to identify a verse to memorize. (No excuses.) Then, start with the first three words. (I know you can do that.) Sing the words to a familiar tune if need be or illustrate it. Gradually, add the next few words until you have memorized your verse. Be sure to write it down where you will see it regularly and continue to review it, perhaps for months (if you’re like me). Then give yourself a “Well done!” … and do it again!

I’d love to hear what ‘gems’ you are working on! Please feel free to share!
May your treasure hunt be richly blessed!

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Always Welcome

Posted on March 17, 2021 by Arrow

Young Queen Esther, fearful of losing her life by approaching the king without an invitation, had requested all nearby Jews to join her in a three-day fast before entering the royal throne room and making her request to King Xerxes.

Thankfully, “When he saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand” (Esther 5:2).

When we come before the King of kings, we do not need to fear. God will always welcome us, have time for us, forgive, and love us. We can bring Him all our angst, feelings, issues, and problems. He will listen to us vent. He is patient and merciful and kind. Yes, He is worthy of honor, but He remembers that we are weak and in need.

The story of the prodigal son portrays a father’s response to his wayward child. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” (Luke 15:20). That is how God responds to us. He is waiting and watching, longing for us to come to Him.

Under Old Testament law, things were much different. Only the priests were allowed to enter the Holy Place in the Tabernacle or Temple. Beyond the Holy Place was the Holy of Holies or Most Holy Place, separated by a heavy curtain. Only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and then, only once a year. The representation of a holy God separated from sinful mankind was clear.

Therefore, it is of utmost significance that upon the death of Jesus on the cross that the curtain representing this separation was literally torn in two! The death of Jesus gave all people access to the throne room of God, whether in worship, in prayer, in tears, sorrow, gladness, or whatever. The King of kings welcomes all to come to Him any time. May we go before His Presence today.

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Step Forward

Posted on March 10, 2021 by Arrow

Here in the Arizona desert, it is quite common to see the sky dotted with colorful hot air balloons. If you live near undeveloped land, you may occasionally hear the distinguishable gush of air released as riders float by in their gradual descent.

Recently, I was reading the back story of the first king of Israel. God made it clear to the prophet Samuel that Saul was the chosen one. Samuel responded by privately informing Saul and anointing him with oil. As an added touch of validation, Samuel prophesied three specific signs regarding events Saul was about to experience, all of which were quickly fulfilled.

Still, when the time came for the nation of Israel to hear the proclamation, Saul was not to be found. Scripture tells us he had “hidden himself among the baggage” and others had to run and bring him out (1 Samuel 10:22-23). Saul nearly allowed his fears to sabotage the fulfillment of his calling.

We may experience similar feelings. Fear can inflate us like a hot air balloon, carrying us off course, perhaps causing us to miss out on or delay God’s best for us. When we identify those fears, we have the ability to fight back with the sword of truth and deflate it.

Even though we may still feel afraid, we can step forward into what God has waiting for us. Listen how God encouraged others. “Have I not commanded you? Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

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Foolishness or Foundation

Posted on March 3, 2021 by Arrow

At a recent writers’ meeting, I shared a manuscript meant to motivate children to check out God’s Word. After hearing the preview of dramatic highlights, a fellow author commented how it touched on many Bible stories. I left wondering if she thought those ‘stories’ were fact or fiction.

The world’s point of view is clear. The Bible is pure fiction, filled with falsehoods and fallacies to deceive and mislead. The world will contend that those who use Scripture as the foundation of their life are weak and less intelligent, even foolish. The apostle Paul described similar thinking one thousand nine hundred sixty-six years ago.

“The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14).

Paul explained that without the Holy Spirit’s guidance, people are spiritually blind, deaf, and unable to understand Scripture. “‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him’—but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit” (1 Corinthians 2:9-10).

I encourage you to seek out the firm foundation found by faith in God’s Son and in His Holy Word. It will provide wisdom for each day, a wisdom beyond anything the world has to offer. “We speak of God’s secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7-8).

May we choose wisely what we believe!

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Give Up

Posted on February 24, 2021 by Arrow

Jesus came to earth, giving up His reign and heavenly throne.
Jesus was born into the tribe of Judah, giving up the ability to serve in the temple.
Jesus was laid in a manger, giving up being crowned an earthy king.
Jesus trained as a carpenter, giving up wealth.
As an adult, Jesus had no place to call home, giving up the opportunity to be a land owner.
Jesus fasted and prayed, giving up food.
Jesus got up early, while it was still dark, to pray, giving up sleep.
Jesus focused on others, giving up marriage and a family of His own.
Jesus healed the sick, giving up time to hang out with friends.
Jesus taught truth, giving up being accepted by the religious leaders.
Jesus preached, giving up vacation.
Jesus performed miracles, giving up privacy.
Jesus refused to perform miracles, giving up popularity and praise.
Jesus made friends with those with bad reputations, giving up being respected.
Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, giving up being treated as the guest of honor.
Jesus was arrested and tried, giving up His right to defend Himself against evil.
Jesus was beaten, flogged, and crucified, giving up His life.
Finally, Jesus arose,… giving up death forever!

Jesus gave up everything for us. What are we giving up for Him?


“Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8b).
“Any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:33).

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Leadership A, B, C’s

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Arrow

At a park recently, I watched siblings playing “Follow the Leader” while going down a slide. Forward, backward, feet first, head first, legs dangling over one side, even s-l-o-w m-o-t-i-o-n! As one led, the other followed.

An excellent example of leadership is found in the Old Testament after Moses passed his mantle to Joshua. Check out a few of Joshua’s leadership qualities.

Ageless. Even though advanced in years (90-100), Joshua continued his assignment of allocating the territories of the Promised Land to the tribes of Israel.

Believed God—no matter what! After receiving God’s battle plans, Joshua boldly marched forward, a behavior of obedience.

Called on God … whether confused or courageous.

Depended on the Lord for direction.

Encouraged others to follow the Lord. Joshua led by example.

Faithful. Joshua’s faith was greater than his fears. When spying out the land of Canaan for Moses, Joshua recognized the possibilities and knew the power of His God was able to lead them in victory over their enemies. 

As one of his last acts of leadership, before his death at age 110, Joshua instructed God’s people, “Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness… Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:14-15).

We are all leading someone. How will we lead?

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Directions, Please

Posted on February 10, 2021 by Arrow

A few years ago, I made it clear, please do not give me digital gifts. Technology is not my forte. Well, this year I relented and asked for headphones, not realizing I would get a fancy Wireless Noise Canceling Stereo Headset, which meant (if you need interpretation, like me), it had Bluetooth capabilities that could connect with other digital thingies.

A little overwhelmed, I eventually inspected the box for directions. What I found was panels of pictures purportedly depicting each purpose ~ a puzzling predicament! Clearly, I was elated when I quickly located written step-by-step instructions online. (That, I know how to do.)

Directions, whether specific or general bring satisfaction and understanding, just like when I use a map app to help me arrive at a desired destination. The Bible similarly blesses us with guidance when we take time to read it. I am constantly amazed at how God uses Scripture I read in the morning to point me to specific activities and/or attitudes for the day. God knows our individual situations and His Word teaches, prepares, and encourages us in our daily walk with Him. Without direction, we are lost. I am so thankful He offers to show us the way.

“I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go” (Isaiah 48:17b).

Also, sincere thanks to my thoughtful husband for my headset which I successfully use regularly!

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Live Like a King

Posted on February 3, 2021 by Arrow

In the legendary time of King Arthur, the British king hosted his knights, including Sir Lancelot, around the famous Round Table. Of course, he also lived in a palace and defeated barbarians in numerous battles.

Real-life kings and queens have come and gone, some wise and well-loved, others infamous. Today, twenty-nine countries have royal families. While many monarchs merely reign, others wield political power.

When the nation of Israel asked for a king, after being led by a number of judges, God gave specific guidelines that may surprise you. The king was not to acquire large numbers of horses, take many wives, or accumulate large amounts of silver and gold (Deuteronomy 17:14-17).

What was the monarch to do? God instructed, “When he takes the throne of his kingdom, he is to write for himself on a scroll a copy of this law, taken from that of the priests, who are Levites. It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the LORD his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees and not consider himself better than his brothers and turn from the law to the right or to the left” (Deut. 17:18-20a).

While few of us need worry about multiple horses, spouses, or overflowing bank accounts, we can heed the wisdom of focusing on God’s Word and honoring Him. I would challenge you to find a verse or passage this week that touches your heart. Write it down and place it in a prominent place where you can read it again and again, thinking about its application and how it can change your life and/or thought patterns. I dare you, pick up your sword (the Scriptures) … and live like a king!

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