Are We Prepared?

Posted on July 30, 2025 by Arrow

I write this as my husband and I are preparing for his knee replacement surgery scheduled for tomorrow morning. Prescriptions picked up, linens cleaned, and a walker borrowed. Check, check, and check! We are ready.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY

When we choose to live for Jesus, we become part of His kingdom here on earth. But we also know that Christ’s kingdom has a future aspect which will come when He returns a second time. Let’s see what Scripture teaches about how we can be prepared for His next arrival.

Jesus warns, “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him” (Matthew 24:44). The verses just prior to this compared Jesus’ surprise arrival to the unexpected entrance of a thief. Believers are reminded to “keep watch.”

Jesus also encourages His followers to be “faithful and wise servants” who continue doing the work they are called to do. He continues, “It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns” (Matthew 24:46). That work includes the Great Commission where Jesus said, “[G]o and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20a).

In Matthew 25, Jesus tells a parable of ten virgins who are waiting a lengthy time for the bridegroom (Jesus) to come. A problem arises when some of the ladies assume the bridegroom will return soon. They are unprepared to persevere in the waiting. Here, Jesus reminds us to remain faithful over the long-term, living a life that honors Him.

It appears we have plenty to do as we prepare and wait for Jesus to return. May we be faithful and diligent servants.

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Share the Music

Posted on July 23, 2025 by Arrow

Have you ever received a text from a friend or family member that included a link to a song or perhaps just a couple lines of song lyrics? People share either because something touched their heart and/or they thought the message would touch yours. It’s always nice to be reminded that someone is thinking about you and wants to send you encouragement or guidance.

I realized the other day that if you received a song based on Scripture that this is an example of what Paul was talking about when he wrote, “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:19a).

This is more than a song or special music in a church service or gathering. Paul included this suggestion in a paragraph of things to practice in our daily lives along with giving thanks and making the most of every opportunity. It is an example of one way we can communicate with believers and non-believers alike.

In another letter, Paul advised, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16).

Teachings from God’s Word or Bible verses put to music are a beautiful way to share God’s truth. Music touches our hearts and minds in a unique way, differently than hearing a sermon or reading Scripture.

So, whether we are listening to or singing ancient Psalms put to music, newly composed songs of praise and celebration, songs that give thanks, or those recount the acts of God, they all have a place in our lives today.

And when we sense the Spirit whisper, “Share this with (insert name)”, let’s do it.

Here is link to my current favorite song based on Scripture. Enjoy!

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Give Up or Give In

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Arrow

The young couple searched for their first house. But each fixer-upper they looked at produced disappointment. Either their offer was not accepted or the ‘fixing’ was beyond their ability. Finally, the wife lamented, “We’re never going to find a house!”

Grief and giving up come naturally, and quickly.

The chiropractor’s patient headed out to the desk after her regular adjustment. “Do you think my back will stay in place this time?” she quipped to the doctor.

“After all these years, you know that answer,” replied Doc.

But this patient hung on to hope. Perhaps someday, it would happen, Lord willing. She was not about to give up, at least not yet.

Besides, Romans 15:13 was a scripture she had planted in her mind. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

We decide what is flowing in our mind. Fear or faith? Negativity or hope?

Now, I’m not saying that we should never feel disappointed or sad. What I am saying is we determine how long we’re going to replay that pain and despair in our mind. And for goodness’ sake, we need not be anxious and worry over something that has not even happened!

Sure, God’s timing is typically not ours. So, what do we do in the waiting? Instead of giving up on hope, let’s give in to God’s will and God’s timing. Trust that He is in control and He knows best.

Memorize the following verse and add your name after the word ‘you’, as if God is addressing you face-to-face. “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded” (2 Chronicles 15:7).

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The Problem with Truth    

Posted on July 9, 2025 by Arrow

I read the most interesting sentence the other day found in The True Jesus by David Limbaugh. (Yes, the brother of the late Rush Limbaugh.) In discussing the message of Jesus, the author said, “[S]ome would accept it and others would reject it, because the Truth causes division” (page 105).

Truth causes division. Limbaugh was referring to Luke 12:51 where Jesus says, “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.” Jesus continued, explaining that families would be divided against one another.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC

Clearly some people would accept that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of God. They would come to understand that He came to die for the sins of all people so that they could have a right relationship with God. Others would deny and reject all of the above.

Doesn’t that seem strange? Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Jesus said He was the Truth. For those with childlike faith, this is not  complicated. They simply believe Truth. They believe Jesus was who He said He was. Period.

For others, Jesus presents a predicament. Hardened hearts battle and reject what Jesus offers. They busily struggle to find their own “truth” which leads to no lasting satisfaction or peace. No forgiveness. No eternal life with the Father.

Perhaps deep down inside, some recognize Truth, but refuse to surrender. They choose to play the world’s game and risk their eternal destination day after day. They figure they have plenty of time to choose Truth . . . later.

Hear the warning: “Watch out, brothers and sisters, so that there won’t be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God . . . so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception” (Hebrews 3:12-13 CSB).

Don’t be deceived! Experience the joy of Truth!

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Responsibilities of Freedom

Posted on July 2, 2025 by Arrow

The Fourth of July or Independence Day reminds Americans of their great freedoms. I heard a pastor share that a uniformed soldier once told him, “Don’t thank me for my service. Thank me for your freedom.” Something worth considering.

Freedom is a powerful thing. We, in America, are allowed many freedoms that others have never experienced. But the greatest freedom is offered to all people through Jesus Christ. As believers, we are set free from sin (Romans 6:18).

Freedom, however, comes with responsibilities.

  • The Message version of James 1:25 says, “But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action.” James was warning that true freedom is demonstrated in right living. We don’t forget what we hear. We do it.
  • The Apostle Paul wrote, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). He then explains that believers, with the help of the Holy Spirit, should increasingly become more like Jesus.
  • Paul also taught, “You, my brothers [and sisters], were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13). He then clarifies that believers are to “live by the Spirit.”
  • Finally, the Apostle Peter adds, “Live as free [people], but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God” (1 Peter 2:16).

May we regularly recall what Christ did and what it cost Him to set us free. Let’s give Him thanks and live in a way that reflects Him.

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Put On the New

Posted on June 25, 2025 by Arrow

“You’re going to wear that again?” The frustrated mother of a junior higher gave up. It was the third day in a row that her son would wear that unwashed shirt and jeans.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC

Interestingly enough, Jesus told a story about a man who was improperly dressed, possibly wearing dirty and tattered clothing, not to school, but to a wedding feast! The guy had been given a new outfit appropriate for the occasion, yet he refused to take off the old and put on the new.

How did that work out? The man was thrown out, essentially sent to hell. (Matthew 22:13).

In 2 Corinthians, Paul teaches, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Cor. 5:17).

Jesus’ parable of the wedding feast was a depiction of God inviting all people into His kingdom, into a personal relationship. Everyone was invited. Unfortunately, most created excuses as to why they couldn’t come. God continued to send messengers to make sure everyone knew they were welcome. He even provided a change of clothes for those who felt unworthy of attending.

Perhaps the man in Jesus’ story felt he was not worthy to attend the heavenly feast. He misunderstood that He was not invited based on his own merit or works, but on what Jesus did. “God made him [Jesus] who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21).

Once we accept God’s invitation, we are made new and stand before God with the clothing of Jesus’ righteousness.

May we get rid of the old and embrace the new.

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Healthy Spiritual Muscles

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Arrow

The cause of my pain was finally diagnosed by our chiropractor. A back muscle called quadratus lumborum was waaaay too tight. The doctor explained that this muscle band needed a good blood flow to be healthy and it wasn’t getting it. Treatment: deep massage and stretching.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND

We’ve all experienced the stiffness of unused muscles, even if we’ve only been still for a couple of hours. The same thing happens with our spiritual muscles. In the parable of the talents found in Matthew 25:14-30, the servant who hid his “gift” instead of using it eventually lost it. Those who used their talents were blessed with more.

As believers, fear, laziness, and disobedience are all causes of “stiffness” in our spiritual life. In order to be spiritually healthy, we need to use the gifts God has blessed us with to serve others.

My doctor also shared this example. If I made a tight fist and stuck it in water and then took my hand out, my palm would be dry, a picture of the lack of blood flow to my back muscle.

I thought of how we may hang on to sin so tightly that we do not allow the blood of Jesus to flow into that area of our life to bring healing. What we need to do is open our hand, release the sin or problem and allow the blood of Jesus to cleanse and forgive.

Scripture tells us, “[L]et us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience . . . . And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:22, 24).

Our spiritual muscles need blood as well as movement. Let’s go!

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Anything New?

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Arrow

Anything new? Hmm. Not wardrobe or hairstyle. Not my walk/jog through my neighborhood. Truly, not my homemade breakfast bars that I’ve made part of my routine for months now. Usually, I’m okay with that. With some things, I’m comfortable with same-old, same-old . . . but in other areas, I need something new. How about you?

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND

Jeremiah wrote, “Because of the LORD’s faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!” (Lamentations 3:22-23 CSB Italics mine.)

Bible study teacher, Jennifer Rothschild, clarifies this verse. “Jeremiah is not saying that we lose God’s mercy or compassion.” “But rather, every day we get to experience God’s mercies all over again, fresh and new” (Psalm 23: The Shepherd with Me).

The idea of God’s love washing anew over us each morning is like the joy of a spring shower. His daily mercy in forgiving our weaknesses and shortcomings provides relief and refreshes our mind.

People talk about needing a fresh filling of the Holy Spirt. But it’s not because they ran out or the Spirit left. Our mind needs to be refreshed. We need a new awareness of God’s presence and His power.

We forget and get distracted. That’s why it is important to spend time with the Lord on a daily basis. We need daily, refreshing reminders. We need to hear His Spirit speak to our hearts. And God has a Word for us every day.

The apostle Paul reminded us that we were taught “to be made new in the attitude of [our] minds” (Ephesians 4:23).

May we pause daily to experience God’s presence and power, receive His new love and mercies, and hear His refreshing Word.

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A Cup of Hope

Posted on June 4, 2025 by Arrow

I’d like a cup of hope, please.

Wouldn’t that be a nice way to jumpstart your day? Is hope something I can stir up when feeling discouraged? Where can I find it?

The NIV Study Bible describes hope as “unshakable confidence concerning the future”, “not a mere wish.” NIV notes on Romans 5:5 explain, “The believer’s hope is not to be equated with unfounded optimism. On the contrary, it is the blessed assurance of our future destiny and is based on God’s love, which is revealed to us by the Holy Spirit and objectively demonstrated to us in the death of Christ.”

The Scriptures below answer where hope can be found and teach what or whom to put our hope in: God, His Word, and His love.

  • “Why are you downcast [depressed], O my soul? Why so disturbed [with grumbling and complaining] within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God” (Psalm 42:5).
  • “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4).
  • “But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love” (Psalm 33:18).

In other verses, hope and waiting or hope and faith go hand in hand:

  • “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently” (Romans 8:25).
  • “[W]e wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13).
  • “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1).

When needing a helping of hope, may we look to the One who is our hope, the hope that does not disappoint. (Romans 5:5)

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Graduation or Summer School?

Posted on May 28, 2025 by Arrow

Here we are, that time of year where many are graduating, receiving that long-sought-after diploma. The lessons learned have hopefully equipped scholars to successfully embark on their choice career.

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Sometimes, a life of lessons learned can feel like a series of graduations. Other times, we may experience feeling stuck in a series of repeated summer school sessions.

Challenges or seasons of difficulty give us the opportunity to grow in our faith and experience a closer walk with God. Remember, He knows exactly what we need in order to mature in our relationship with Him.

Maturing or “graduating” is up to us. When we refuse to learn the lessons God has for us, we become stuck in a summer school cycle.

That’s what the Israelites did after they left Egypt. God wanted them to understand that He was trustworthy. He was with them and would meet all their needs.

But they repeatedly panicked, grumbled, and complained. Instead of waiting to see how God would provide for them, they went to Moses and whined or took matters into their own hands causing epic failures.

The Israelites were such slow learners that they stayed in the desert for 40 “summer school sessions.” It was the next generation who finally entered God’s promised land.

May we learn from their example and heed the words of James: “Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4).

I figure, becoming “mature and complete” takes a multitude of mini-graduations and hopefully fewer summer school sessions to learn our lessons.

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