Echos of Encouragement
Encouragement and Challenge for Singles for the Year 2003
by Brother Barnabas
NOTE: devotions below are in REVERSE order chronologically
Janet Hill
August 15, 2003
Another one of our singles is leaving us for seminary. For those who read Barnabas who aren’t a part of the Village Baptist Church (Oklahoma City) singles ministry, it initially may not mean as much to read this. However, I purposefully try and write a Barnabas devotion for those leaving for seminary, and sometimes I write one for other reasons, like for our family members in order to encourage them and to challenge our singles’ family to pray for them.
One needs to understand that being a single adult is a unique opportunity in life. I submit that our singles' family has had, has, and will have some of the finest Christian people found anywhere. We celebrate, mourn, and go through life together as a diverse family, but always a family. I submit that there is a koinonia (fellowship +) that can be perhaps experienced stronger with singles than with any other group in the church.
This said, brings us back to the subject of one Janet Hill. Janet is a missionary. It’s not that she wants to be, or will be, but she already is. She served as a two-year Journeyman in the Southern Baptist Convention in China. After the fulfillment she came back to the states seeking God’s will. God led her to Village Church where she has been a blessing to many. She has taught, been in the drama events, sang in the choir, played football on Sunday afternoons, which is where I first got to know her, and contributed in lots of meaningful ways to both the singles group and the church body as a whole. She will be missed.
Janet needs approximately twenty hours of seminary training to be able to apply as a career missionary. She is leaving for Southwestern Seminary, a great choice I might add, to obtain that training. It takes lots of intestinal fortitude (guts) for anyone to branch out and follow the Lord Jesus at any cost , whether it means going to seminary or whether it means something else. I admire Janet for taking that step or leap of faith.
Let me encourage you this week to begin praying for Janet Hill and those like her. Writing this Barnabas has reminded me to pray for Janet and encourage all that read Barnabas to pray for all those in our seminaries. It is sometimes a difficult time, but it is a wonderful experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything. My only regret for Janet is that she won’t be able to have Dr. Cal Guy for missions.
Encouraging you to pray and praise God for Janet,
Brother Barnabas
Bama
August 8, 2003
Writing this bb saddens me while simultaneously making me happy. Deena Halfmoon is leaving the Village Baptist Church (VBC) staff here in Oklahoma City. This saddens me. She and her husband Victor are leaving for seminary. This overjoys me! They are beginning a new genesis in their lives by moving to Dallas and attending Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS). Sorry that it wasn’t Southwestern. Only kidding!
Deena has been the only secretary I have known since the Lord prompted me to begin writing Barnabas, and Randy Davis, Minister to Single Adults at VBC at the time, said that he would make room for it in the Single’s bulletin. I have written a couple of bb’s concerning her. One, “She Makes Me Look Good,” is dear to me because she indeed makes bb look good. She has edited my mistakes, allowed me to get it to her at the last possible minute, and done a terrific job to see that bb is placed on the back of the single’s bulletin at VBC.
Not only is Deena the single adult secretary, but she and her husband Victor are my friends. As I write I keep hearing Michael W. Smith singing in my head, “Friends.” If I may quote, “And friends are friends forever if the Lord’s the Lord of them.” They are “forever” friends. I am both excited and even a bit envious concerning their new endeavor. How I miss the seminary environment. The academics along with the fellowship is a wonderful experience. I hope this is only au revoir rather than adieu.
The difference in both French words for goodbye is that adieu means goodbye with the idea that it is a permanent goodbye. Au revoir on the other hand means goodbye with the idea that it is only until you meet again. It isn’t permanent; “goodbye for now.” Au revoir Deena and Victor!!
Let me encourage you this week to demonstrate your appreciation for at least one of your friends; especially your Christian friends. Call, email, snail mail, visit, or do something to let them know that they are important to you. Your life is better because of their friendship.
Encouraging you in the “au revoirs” of life,
Brother Barnabas
Signs and Doors
July 25, 2003
It’s not always easy discerning God’s will. Sometimes it’s down right difficult. We are told in the Bible to seek His will. We are also told that if we seek Him we will find Him. We are told not to be foolish but to understand what the will of the Lord is. If you’re like me sometimes you come up short finding God’s will. One would think that His will would be like a neon sign pointing to itself. It seems sometimes like a wonderful treasure hunt but without all the clues.
In attempts to aid people in finding God’s will I have heard numerous people speak of different ways to find it. Some have suggested that you find a sign or Scripture verse to verify that you’re on the right track. This makes sense because we know that God will never go contrary to the Scripture. This is one of His voluntary limitations placed upon Himself. It is best to find this Scripture through reading and studying rather than randomly opening the Bible and pointing. Although I have seen times when I opened the Bible, and it was at the particular Scripture that I needed. Sometimes though you will seek for Scripture promises, and even think that you have one only to discover you were wrong.
Others have said to look for the open doors that God has for you. As you go through one door another will open. This seems to make sense also. I have seen God open doors, and sure enough as I have gone through one door others have opened. However, this also doesn’t always work. There are times when you are in the center of God’s will and everywhere you turn you find closed doors, but you are assured by the Holy Spirit that you are in the center of God’s will.
What’s the fool proof answer to finding God’s will for your life? Is it signs or doors? Sorry, but there is no fool proof way of finding God’s will. The Bible only says that we are to seek His face continually. The Bible also says that if we seek Him,we will find Him, but it doesn’t say how long it will take.
Let me encourage you this week to seek the face of God. He has promised to reveal Himself to us. When and I how I couldn’t tell you. All I know is what the Scriptures say, and I believe them.
Encouraging you to seek God,
Brother Barnabas
Deadlines
July 18, 2003
What is it about deadlines that we hate? We have a task to do with a time table, know that it has to be done, but so very often we put it off until the last possible minute or second. Then we complain about having to meet the deadline when most of the time we had plenty of time to accomplish the task to begin with. We say that we work better under pressure, but the reason we say that is because most of us wait until we’re under pressure before we get to work. I know this all too well from personal experience.
The fact is that most of us don’t work better under pressure. Working under pressure often lends itself to sloppiness and errors. We rush the job because it has to be done. Just getting it done becomes the objective rather than doing the job well. We delude ourselves when we accomplish the task on time with few flaws and think we can get away with this type of behavior over and over. We get into a habit of doing all sorts of things at the last minute because we think and we can think that we do them well. Again, I know this all too well from personal experience.
The fact remains that for the most part we do better with deadlines when we take the take it takes to accomplish the task without the idea of “just get it done.” Whatever we seek to accomplish time is our friend rather than our enemy. We should take the time when possible to accomplish tasks without having to do it at the last second.
Taking the time it takes flows over into the spiritual life as well. How many Sunday School teachers cram their lesson late Saturday evening or early Sunday morning. How many Christians don’t prepare for Sunday by neglecting their quiet times during the week except for some “quickies.” How many of us are actually prepared to worship when we come together? How unfortunate!
Most unfortunate are those that try to live their lives without Jesus thinking that they can get saved at the last possible moment and everything will be all right. That is wrong thinking to begin with and actually most people don’t make last minute decisions for Jesus that I know of. It’s always better to live for Jesus early. But actually is it ever early?
Let me encourage you this week to live for Jesus while you have time. Remember this is a relationship and not just a “get out of Hell free” ticket. Let me encourage you to have your lessons and life prepared in order to enjoy the deadlines rather than grimacing over them.
Meeting the deadline to encourage you,
Brother Barnabas
Real Freedom
July 4, 2003
“Let freedom ring!” Not only are these the last words to “My Country Tis of Thee,” but these lyrics also convey the basic sentiment that expresses how we feel concerning our country during this time of year. We celebrate our freedom daily but especially during July 4. I would dare say that all of us are very grateful to be an American with all the privileges it encompasses. Though our country is far from perfect I had rather be an American than a citizen of any other country on the face of the earth. I have the special privilege of be both an American and a Southerner.
Real freedom, however; is not about being an American or living in Western Society. It is about being freed from eternal death and being transferred into the kingdom of God through a relationship with Jesus as we see in Colossians 1. We must acknowledge and understand that there are extremely too many people both in our country and in our world that though they appear to be free are actually in fact mired in slavery. They are eternal slaves with devastating consequences. Externally they look free and fine, but spiritually they are slaves of sin. Only if the Son makes one free can one truly be free. Jesus said that Himself.
Let me encourage you that as you enjoy your July 4 holiday don’t forget to celebrate freedom in Christ and aid someone else in finding their ultimate freedom. Look beyond the obvious in their lives to see if indeed they are in slavery, and for God’s sake help set them free.
Freely sharing,
Brother Barnabas
It’s About Jesus
June 20, 2003
This past week Oklahoma City, where I live, was privileged to have Billy Graham in town to do what maybe will be his last crusade. Whether you refer to him as Dr. Graham, Mr. Graham, Reverend Graham, or simply as Billy, he was in town and the crusade was awesome. I know, I was there serving as a counselor supervisor which meant pairing other counselors with the inquirers as they came forward. As always, many came forward.
Dr. Graham is and always has been my biggest living hero. I suppose George Whitefield would be at a higher level, but not by much. I remember finding Dr. Graham's office when I was at Ridgecrest Conference Center a number of years ago. I had hoped to be able to pray with him but it didn’t happen. However, I did get to register my name and was given a book.
As I talked with a number of people during the Mission, some became angry or “put-out” that they weren’t allowed into the arena where Dr. Graham actually preached. Because of limited seating in OKC, many of us had to go next door to the overflow area. I never was able to go into the main area. A number of people left because they didn’t get into the main area. As I talked with one friend, whom I know is a good man, he told me that if had wanted to watch on TV he could have done that at home. That really bothered me. Other similar statements bothered me as well.
The Billy Graham Mission wasn’t about Billy Graham. It was about JESUS!! It has always and will always be about Jesus and not about Billy or anyone else. Billy is simply the man God has chosen to anoint in a special manner to bring glory to Jesus. If it ever becomes “about Billy,” the anointing will diminish. Dr. Graham even last week stated that Jesus was the reason he was there.
This week I didn’t attend Wednesday night services again. I have dropped out of the habit for a number of reasons, but I still show up at the church to fellowship and because my health club is close by. As I was thinking about this week’s bb the Holy Spirit began speaking to me concerning Wednesday services. I began going through my excuses when suddenly the Holy Spirit reminded me of what I have been reminding you. It’s about JESUS and nothing more. Oh yea! I forgot.
Let me encourage you this week as Colossians 3:17 says that whatever we do, do all in the name of Jesus giving glory to God the Father. Remember it’s about Jesus!
Encouraging you to remember it’s about Jesus,
Brother Barnabas
Present Tense
June 6, 2003
Have you ever thought about how important time tenses are? Remember, there are four basic tenses present, past, future, and conditional. We use these tenses when we speak or write, but more importantly we use them to live by. When it comes to your Spiritual walk, what tense or tenses do you use or live by?
When talking to some Christians, their main tense in reference to their Spiritual condition is past. These people speak of all the things that they “use to do” for the Lord Jesus. It was always better back then.
Other Christians use the future tense to refer to their Spiritual walk. They are too busy now, but “one of these days...” They always talk about what they are going to do for/with the Lord in the future.
Still others use the conditional tense to define their Spiritual perspective. If God will just do this for me, then I will do whatever. With them, there are always conditions added to serving Jesus.
God’s name by definition is present tense. “Moses, tell them “I AM” has sent you.” Not only is God’s name present tense, but throughout the Bible we are encouraged to live our Spiritual lives in the present tense. Nothing really matters except what you do today!
Let me encourage you this week to begin living your Spiritual life in the present tense. Let the past and future take care of themselves, and by no means put conditions to serving Jesus.
Presently speaking,
Brother Barnabas
Thankful for Adversaries
May 30, 2003
As you read the title you may be thinking, “Is Jeff nuts?” That’s beside the point. Oh, you mean in reference to the title of this week’s bb. Read on and then decide.
I was talking with a friend at work this week about some people in the media spotlight. We were talking about how we both had disdain for these people because they seem to always “run their mouth” without much to say if anything. We both agreed that life would be more pleasurable to all concerned if these people would simply go into oblivion. We rejoiced at our insight on how to make the world a better place.
It was at that point that the Holy Spirit began speaking to my spirit and reminding me of something He taught me long ago. I then began sharing this thought with my friend. I told him that it was good that these people were around because they were good for me. He asked how? I told him that it was these people who actually aided me in gaging my Christianity.
It’s great to have prayer partners, accountability partners, and other such partners. They aid in our growth as Christians. They are wonderful to have around because we have the “warm fuzzies” around them. They are not as accurate of a gage for our Christianity though as are our adversaries.
There are people that when I think of them or see them they immediately place me on “defense mode.” They grate on my nerves and challenge me in civility almost every time. These people are not easy for me to love. Unfortunately, there are other people that feel the same way about me. It’s sad but true.
These adversaries, if you will, aid my Christianity in many respects more than my “beloved partners in Christ.” Why, because can I love them in spite of themselves? Can I pray for them genuinely and ask God to bless them even when I wish these people were on another planet? If I can’t then my Christianity needs much work.
Jesus told us to pray for those that spitefully use us. We are to love our enemies. What reward is there for only loving those that love us? Don’t even the worst of sinners to that with each other?
Oh yea, I forgot. It is our adversaries that often times will show us how much we have really grown as Christians. We began to become smug about how much progress we have made when they show up.
Let me encourage you this week to love your adversaries. Take an adversary to lunch this week. Kidding. However, there have been times when those that began as my adversaries became my closest friends.
Encouraging you because of adversaries,
Brother Barnabas
One or Two?
May 23, 2003
My friend Don Davidson, who puts bb on his website at www.singlesmall.com/links.html (look under Devotional Thoughts), has been after me lately. Evidently there has been a paradigm shift in writing to which I was unaware. Now, instead of two spaces after a period it is one. I didn’t believe it at first, no offense to Don intended, but I had been trained by my typing teachers, which I took to get out of Algebra II and Trig. and Physics, that there was always two spaces after a period. That is what I’ve been doing all these years until recently.
I actually called the University of Central Oklahoma to ascertain the correct format. I talked with a PHD whom of course can never be wrong. He teaches newspaper writing. He told me that he had been writing that way for years. He couldn’t remember when the change occurred, but it had occurred. I suddenly became outraged!!
How did I miss this important change?!! To think, of all the space I have wasted through the years placing two spaces after a period instead of one! Think of all the time I could have saved by only placing one space instead of two. What about all the typing paper doing all those term papers in college and seminary? The thoughts of all the unnecessary space, time, and paper gone because I spent the majority of my life placing two spaces after a period instead of one!! Can I ever make up for all those lost opportunities?
Ok, so I’m being a bit facetious. There is a point. The point is that methods sometimes change, but principles don’t. Even as I’m writing this I’m having to go back and place one space instead of two. Why bother? First, because my friend Don has asked me in order to look current or as I would say “hip” or “cool.” He obviously wouldn’t say that. And secondly, this is a challenge to me. I am one that doesn’t mind change as long as it accommodates me. This change doesn’t come easy.
If I am going to preach change then I have to also be willing to change even if it is uncomfortable and challenging. I expect others to change midstream when I give them “a better way” to witness or do their Christianity. I need to be willing to change myself when deemed appropriate.
This is simply a fun Barnabas encouraging you to change your method of doing Christianity when time necessitates it. Don’t change from the principles or doctrines learned and cherished. They stay put. Willingness to change demonstrates that you’re still teachable and willing to learn. See how easy that was?
Changing to better encourage you,
Brother Barnabas
Heart Trouble
May 16, 2003
As I write this week’s bb I write sobering news. On Wednesday May 14th I had a heart cath. performed. Approximately two weeks after turning forty-six an irregular heart beat was discovered. I was referred to a cardiologist who performed both a nuclear stress test and then on the 14th the heart cath. It has been discovered though my valves are clear my heart muscle itself is only functioning at approximately 20% or a little better. The cause is some type of viral infection that has attacked my heart. The prognosis at this time is uncertain.
It has always been my intention to glorify the Lord Jesus regardless of the circumstances. I don’t always succeed, but I try. Am I a bit frightened? You bet. Have I surrendered to these circumstances? No way!! Am I having a realistic attitude towards this circumstance? I believe so. Will I blame God, fall away from my faith, and live selfishly? NO!! That isn’t even a consideration.Will I get angry, lash out at God, and then humbly repent? Oh yea, been there and already done that. Actually that happened before the heart cath. I continually praise Jesus for His patience with me and for His continued forgiveness.
In all things whether good or bad the Lord Jesus must be exalted and reverenced in my life as well as in the life of all Christians. That isn’t even up for debate. God is good both immediately and ultimately.!! You must know that I REALLY do believe this and build my life on these truths.
Whatever this heart trouble turns out to be it is temporal at best. I don’t have permanent heart trouble or eternal heart trouble because of my commitment to Christ which was made years ago initially and continues to be made daily.
My concern is for those that have terminal heart trouble because of their unbelief though they may be in perfect condition physically. Unless repentance occurs their prognosis is disastrous. Only through the Cross/resurrection experience can permanent heart trouble be cured.
There is much hope with medication for my current circumstances. I have already been told of one man who had similar circumstances that is basically healed. Regardless of what transpires on earth I have already cured my permanent heart disease which is infinitely of more importance.
Let me encourage you this week to make sure you are cured of permanent heart disease. It can only occur through a relationship with Jesus.
Heartily encouraging you,
Brother Barnabas
Norma
May 9, 2003
Mother’s Day this year is May 11. Many singles along with others will be demonstrating to mom their love and affection for all she has done and continues to do in their lives. Mom is special. There are several of us that won’t be doing things with mom today because mom is no longer with us. We will celebrate the memory of mom and miss her a little bit or perhaps a lot.
I am very fortunate in that although my real mom is in heaven along with my dad because they were both Christians, I have a second mom with whom I can share Mother’s Day. When I came to Oklahoma a few years ago I needed a place to stay. Two friends, Evangelist Kelly Green and Kent Shirley, told me they knew of a lady whom I could stay with. Her name was Norma Bagley. Norma had taken Kelly in previously and loved him to the point that when he refers to mom it is in reference to Norma.
Norma took me in also along the same lines as she did Kelly. Norma loved me and provided for me to the point where I refer to her as my second mom. I feel rather honored in that she refers to Kelly and myself as her boys. She never had biological children of her own. She has told me several times how sympathetic she feels towards my mom who had to put up with all my antics as I grew up. She now understands why some animals eat their young. She also prays for my wife, if there is one, that she will be able to put up with me.
Norma has been a very big inspiration to me. As I have become a late bloomer in growing up in some respects she has aided in me in putting up with me. She is one of the most positive people I have ever met which comes from her deep love for Jesus. She is also one of the most selfless people I have ever met. She has a difficult time for other people doing things for her because she had rather do for others. She also doesn’t want attention for what she does. She is a woman of God.
Let me encourage you this week to make a fuss over mom. Do it regularly instead of just one day. If you are as fortunate as I am to have two moms that love you unconditionally, then you are truly blest.
Encouraging thankfulness for mom(s),
Brother Barnabas
To Account or Not
May 2, 2003
One of the buzz phrases that has been going around and is continuing to go around in Christian circles is “accountability.” We need to hold people accountable. We need to be held accountable. Lots and lots of rhetoric is being proclaimed concerning accountability. The question arises in my mind is do we really need accountability? My answer is, “Yes, and no.”
We do need to be accountable and keep others accountable. Perhaps in the past this term wasn’t used, but the principle sure was. Even the Lord Jesus had an inner circle to whom He disclosed Himself more fully and helped to protect Him. Through the years wise men and women of God kept close friends around them in order aid them in keeping their walk with Jesus pure.
In the church, from the writings of the Apostle Paul forward we have been warned to keep the flock of Jesus from falling and failing. Scripture gives specific principles for discipline and restoration. Iin my own life that I desire close friends to keep me accountable because it is a safety net.
However, accountability doesn’t come without its own set of problems. I have been told of men whom have fallen in spite of having an accountability group. Well yea!! Accountability is only as good as the person is willing to be accountable. If a person desires to sin he can lie and/or withhold information. Accountability isn’t fool proof by any means. It can be a wonderful tool if used properly, but the decisions are up to those using it.
Another problem with accountability comes from my own experience. There have been times when people have hurt me. After the hurt they tried to act as if nothing ever happened. I decided to forgive them, but to hold them accountable in order to show them their actions and honestly, for me not to be hurt by them again.
All was going fine with this strategy I thought until during some prayer time the Lord directed me to give GRACE. "But Lord," my argument began, "if I don’t hold them accountable they won’t learn, and I will be hurt again. Hurt isn’t fun!!" The Lord was insistent in my spirit that I should give grace. Giving grace is a liberating experience I have found. I give grace because I need grace given to me by others whom I wound.
Let me encourage you this week to be accountable in your Christian walk and hold others accountable. Holding others accountable isn’t a license to judge but an opportunity to aid and encourage. Don’t forget GRACE. There are times when accountability is appropriate, but grace is more appropriate.
Encouraging gracious accountability,
Brother Barnabas
April 25 - No Devotion
Easter Again!!!
April 18, 2003
I absolutely love Easter. One reason is because every day is Easter. Every breath I take is evidence of God’s wonderful love and compassion on my life that when I was dead in my sins He made me alive in Christ Jesus(Ephesians 2:5). In the past few months I have undergone some of the most severe spiritual struggles that I have ever had, but the one thing that has and does(present tense) keep me going is knowing that every day is Easter for me. Every day is a new genesis because I am in Christ. Being in Christ is only possible because of Easter. The most wonderful news is that this same scenario is for each and all who are “in Christ Jesus.” Praise God, every day is EASTER!!
Another reason I love Easter is because of death. Easter means death doesn’t have to win. I write doesn’t have to because without Christ death does win both temporally and eternally. But “in Christ” death can be a friend instead of a foe. Death currently, until the Return, is the vehicle which takes Christians from life to LIFE. That’s why Paul could say in Philippians 1 that to die is gain. He wasn’t using an analogy here. He was speaking of physical death.
Growing up in Alabama we use to have Easter Sunrise Services; normally in or near a grave yard. Many think that tradition is rather odd. What better place to celebrate LIFE than a place that reminds us of death. Remember, Jesus was buried in a tomb, which is normally in a grave yard and not somebody’s back yard.
I Thessalonians Chapter 4 says that at the coming of the Lord the dead in Christ shall rise first.
I’ve always thought it would be kind of neat to be celebrating Easter Sunrise, actually it should be Sonrise, service when the Lord Jesus came back. We would be in the graveyard speaking of the victory over death the Lord Jesus initiated when suddenly He comes. We would see all sorts of people rising out of the graves into the sky to meet the Lord and then we would “rise to the occasion” ourselves. What a deal!!
Let me encourage you this week to celebrate Easter. However, let me encourage you to daily celebrate Easter. Remember, because of Easter we go from life to LIFE. Remember also, because of Easter “WE WIN!!!”
Encouraged and encouraging at EASTER,
Brother Barnabas
Relax
April 11, 2003
Have you ever been around people that are uptight all or almost all the time? They can drive you nuts! Few things if anything is ever humorous to them. Most everything is serious to them. They also get angry is everything doesn’t go just the way they think that it should. It seems that life is only to be endured rather than to be enjoyed. If one stays around these type of people for very long they will rob you of your joy.
We all know people like this. Perhaps, unfortunately I have even described some of us. There are times when we all get uptight. I know that I get uptight sometimes when I expect God to act a certain way, but He decides to be God and act or do in a way that is within His character, but in a way which I didn’t expect or desire. I think that I get anxious or uptight waiting on God; how about you?
The remedy to being uptight especially when it comes to God is to relax and simply trust Him. It’s easier said than done I know, but that’s what we’re supposed to do. We have to realize that God is God. Therefore, He is never going to always act or do in a way in which we expect. He’s not a genie in a magic bottle. He is going to stretch us as we walk this Christian life. Whether we want to or not He is going to make us exercise the faith He has given us. It’s not always fun. Sometimes it leads to real uptightness. But as we grow we see ourselves doing and trusting in a way that we never thought we could. Difficult tasks seem to become simple and the narrow road seems to become more tolerable.
Let me encourage you to relax and trust God. There are so many out in the world that are uptight. I guess if I was going to Hell I would be uptight too. What lost folk need to see are Christians that are relaxed and confident about their God and their relationship with Him. What Christians need to see are other Christians making progress in their walk with Jesus as they learn to trust Him.
Encouraging you,
Brother Barnabas
A Tribute to Marvin
April 4, 2003
Today as I write this bb I am experiencing a significant milestone in my life. Today I am forty-six years old. I suppose that in itself is a milestone, but there is another milestone is of much greater significance. That milestone is the fact that I have now outlived my dad and most of the other males in my dad’s immediate family.
My dad’s name was Lorenza Marvin Flournoy. Obviously, he was called Marvin. My paternal grandfather died when my dad was seven and my grandfather was forty-six. My granddad died of a ruptured appendix. My dad died at the age of 45 when I was barely nine. Two uncles died when they were seventeen and thirty. Another uncle died in his seventies. I had an older brother who only lived a month. Not a great track record for longevity with the men in my immediate family.
People use to ask me what I was looking forward to in life. I would laugh and say my forty-sixth birthday. There was more truth in that statement than I would acknowledge. I seriously wondered periodically if I would make forty-six.
I am the son that my dad had prayed for and received. I’m not sure what that says about his prayer life but he did committ me to the Lord for His service before I was ever born. I, myself, never wanted to be in full time Christian service at first. I was desirous of becoming a cartoonist or lawyer. Go figure that one yourself. God got hold of my life though, I surrendered to ministry, and have sought to fulfill that calling God and my dad placed upon me without my intervention or input.
As I celebrate this day and seek to encourage you I think of two primary thanksgivings and encouragements. First, I am grateful for a family both mom and dad that loved Jesus and sought to train myself and my two older sisters in the admonition of the Lord. My mom and dad sought to live the life in front of us. Both my parents are now in Heaven leaving a legacy of loving Jesus.
Second, I am grateful to such a wonder God, Master, Lord, Savior, Holy Spirit, and Heavenly Father who has sought to lead me in His righteousness all my life. I am most grateful, other than salvation, for His protection and patience with me. My desire is to run well and finish well this race that is set before me always looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of my faith.
Let me encourage you this week no matter what type of family heritage you have to be grateful for that family, to be grateful for your Christian family, and to run well and finish well.
Encouraging you in the milestones,
Brother Barnabas
No Favors?
March 28, 2003
Do you have a giving heart or do you expect favors for demonstrating kindness to others. What motivates you to give of yourself? For many, the motivation to give comes from an opportunity of service because they enjoy giving of themselves or of gratitude because they have been the recipient of others’ giving. Lots of people having giving hearts both Christian and non-Christian.
Unfortunately some almost always expect favors in return for demonstrating kindness. Some have the motivation of getting or selfishness. They have a “getting” heart instead of a giving heart. They want to get all they can while they can from any and all they can. We Christians aren’t immune from this type of behavior. The thought seems to be, if I do this for them then they will owe me a favor. Capitalism infiltrates the human heart even if it is Christian.
Some Christian bring this selfishness into their relationship with Jesus. The thought seems to be that if they are obedient and do enough good things then God is obliged to bless them. Though they profess a salvation of grace the practice becomes a salvation of works; at least some works. I regretfully admit there was a time when I had this attitude. The Lord kindly directed me to Scripture which would change my attitude and theology towards obedience. I warn you this is not a passage you will hear preached often if ever, but Jesus is giving plain directives here in regards to obedience. In Luke 17:7-10 Jesus shows us how we are to approach obedience. In reading this passage, one discovers that obedience is what we are to be doing and practicing without expecting special favors from the Lord for being obedient. If the Lord chooses to add blessings as a result of obedience then “praise God,” but He is not obligated to bless us because we are obedient. We are to be obedient because it is the right thing to do in our relationship with Jesus.
Let me encourage you this week to re-examine your motivation towards obedience to the Lord. It may be that you like me may have to change some attitudes towards obedience. Ask for blessings, sure, why not? But don’t think for one second that God is obligated to bless you because you were obedient in a task. Being obedient is what one should do as a Christian without any expectations of accolades.
Encouraging you to expect no favors,
Brother Barnabas
Reverence
March 21, 2003
When I was in boy scouts I learned how to lash. Lashing is a technique which requires rope, or the like, and wood, or the like. One takes several pieces of wood and lashes them together with rope to make a secure object. We made a chair from lashing wood together. Our troop became quite good at lashing.
Lashing is great in respect to boy scouts, not in reference to God. Actually, here I’m talking about lashing out at God in anger or frustration. It’s a whole different thing than with boy scouts.
In my journey with the Lord Jesus I am continuing to grow and to learn numerous things concerning my relationship with the Lord. Some of my concepts of God and the Christian life have and are changing. One of those concepts involves dialoguing with God.
In the past I have said both publicly and privately that one should tell God exactly how they feel. One needs to be “honest to God.” If you’ve never been angry with God, trust me you will. There’s no point in telling God you’re happy with Him if you’re angry. If you do then you both have to get past the anger and confess lying to God about your anger. However, we must remember that lots of times it’s not what we say, but it’s how we say it that matters. No matter how displeased we may be with God we must not forget to reverence Him. He deserves it.
Recently I have undergone some of the most intense struggles with the Lord that I have ever gone through. I found myself being very sarcastic with God. Remember, 99% of the time sarcasm is used it used in anger. It is used to maim and hurt but with the disguise of laughter. I began thinking, “what does it matter what I say or how I say it? What’s God going to do that can be worse?” I also said some other things to Him that I am deeply regretful for and repentant over.
What I am learning is that God still deserves my reverence of Him. He is God Almighty. He is good both immediately and ultimately. God graciously reminded me that there is NO “sacrifice of anger” in the Bible. It takes very little to blow up and blow off. However, the Bible speaks numerous times concerning the sacrifice of PRAISE. It’s when we’re at our worst spiritually and emotionally that we must offer to God praise. It’s only then that praise becomes a real sacrifice from the depths of our soul. I must not caustically speak to Him. I must reverence Him---for me as well as for Him.
Let me encourage you this week as you do your Christianity to reverence God. Wherever you are emotionally and spiritually remember who you are and whose you are. As you are honest with God don’t forget that He still deserves our reverence whether you’re at your best or at your worst.
Reverently encouraging you,
Brother Barnabas
Tradeoffs
March 14, 2003
Life is full of tradeoffs. Sometimes these tradeoffs seem lousy, and sometimes they are wonderful. There is now a new version of “Let’s Make a Deal” which contestants make tradeoffs in order to try and get a much better deal than the one before. Sometimes they do, and sometimes they don’t. I’ve watched with interest recently as some of my family and as some of our singles and former singles have gone through a variety of tradeoffs.
First, I want to say welcome to my great nephew Mason Helm whom was born March 6, 2003. The tradeoff to me personally is that it reminds me that I’m getting older, and he will be older than my own kids if I ever have any. The tradeoff for my niece is that Mason came lots easier (literally) than his bigger sister, but changing diapers has already proven to be more of an ordeal. Nuff said.
A few of our singles and former singles have lost loved ones recently due to death. These loved ones are no longer in physical pain which is a blessing. The tradeoff there is that they are no longer here physically. From the emails sent the loved ones that died were Christians. They were in love with the Lord Jesus and served Him faithfully. The tradeoff is that these loved ones are no longer around to give Godly encouragement to those that miss them.
Finally as these Godly family members have shed their earth suits to gain the glorified bodies promised them they are now in the ultimate presence of God with all the glories of Heaven. The tradeoff is that they are no longer here on planet earth. If we could somehow get an email or phone call to Heaven and talk with each of them I promise you they would say that it wasn’t much of a tradeoff.
As the Apostle Paul said in Philippians 1:20-21, “...but that with all boldness, Christ shall even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
As you do your Christianity this week remember the tradeoff for Christians is that we have already passed from death into life.
Encouraging you from life to life,
Brother Barnabas
Rejoice and Weep
March 7, 2003
Since I’ve been writing Barnabas I’ve developed both as a person and a writer. I have had to learn how to encourage people and in fact I’m still learning. Encouragement hasn’t come easy for me since I see myself as more of a prophet in the style of “Thus says the Lord.” I’m glad I’m learning how to encourage which brings me to the main point of this week’s bb.
There are numerous types of encouragement and rarely does one type “fit all.” I must admit that I have the most fun when the encouragement comes across as a cheerleader. There are times though when being a cheerleader seems fake, stupid, or out of place even when that’s how I’d like to approach encouragement. I had a girl in seminary one time ask me if I ever had a bad day. What she didn’t know was I was having lots of bad days, I but didn’t want others to know it.
During the Christmas season everyone expects everyone else to be sort of hyped up over the holiday. However, for those that have lost loved ones during the year, gone through divorce, or any number of events being hyped up isn’t realistic. The first Christmas after a death or divorce is one of the toughest events one will go through. Encouragement must take another form than cheerleading.
However, to quote the great theologian Billy Joel, “I’d rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints, the sinners are much more fun. Only the good die young.” We must not view encouragement as always being glum; especially in the Christian community. We need to laugh. We must laugh. We are the only ones that have ultimate hope.
Let me encourage you this week as you do your Christianity to find ways to encourage others. Learn to encourage. Don’t expect one type to fit all. As the apostle Paul says in Romans 12:15, “Rejoice with those that rejoice, and weep with those that weep.”
Encouraging you to encourage,
Brother Barnabas
Stormy Weather
February 28, 2002
I truly wish and desire that our walk with the Lord Jesus was an easy path. Though the path is straight and narrow it most definitely is not easy. I am discovering more and more how difficult this path actually is. Though the path is ultimately wonderful especially when we reach the finish line, in the immediate the difficulties become almost overwhelming at times and for some it isn’t almost. The goal is to finish well which is doable, but I am understanding finishing well is much more difficult than I have ever anticipated.
Weathering storms and disappointments are all a part of the Christian life. One would think that as one adapts to a storm after a while they would get easier to face. At least that’s what I use to think. I currently find the storms more challenging than less. I find myself wondering at times if I will even finish on this path much less finishing well. While I anticipated at this juncture in my life of being very strong in my faith and able to come to the aid of others struggling with this path the reality is that I find myself much weaker than I anticipated and with feelings of such inadequacies that I wonder if I am a positive example to fellow believers or any good to God at all.
I have found myself getting angrier at God and lashing out because of circumstances. I find myself full of doubts; not whether God can come through but rather if He will come through for me. I would have thought that I would have been at the place of spiritual maturity to trust God more and to be more compliant with the storms facing me along this path. I thought I would find myself resting more in His faithfulness rather than questioning the depth of His love for me and wrestling with God over direction along the path.
With all my doubts, anxieties, and weaknesses I honestly know that I can ultimately trust Him. I also know that I can immediately trust Him though I struggle much more with the immediate. I also know that He will never lead me into a storm without sharing that storm with me and providing a way through that storm though I sometimes feel abandoned and compelled to give up. I know that I can trust His judgement and direction though it may lead a much different way than I ever anticipated and actually not the way I want to go at all.
Let me encourage you this week as you do your Christianity to really know that in Christ you can weather the storms and come through them successfully. Understand this is not an easy path, but it is the right path. Know that in Christ you are precious to God and protected by His power.
Encouraging you through the storms,
Brother Barnabas
Present Tense
February 21, 2002
Have you ever thought about how important time tenses are? Remember, there are four basic tenses present, past, future, and conditional. We use these tenses when we speak or write, but more importantly we use them to live by. When it comes to your Spiritual walk, what tense or tenses do you use or live by?
When talking to some Christians, their main tense in reference to their Spiritual condition is past. These people speak of all the things that they “use to do” for the Lord Jesus. It was always better back then.
Other Christians use the future tense to refer to their Spiritual walk. They are too busy now, but “one of the days.” They always talk about what they are going to do for/with the Lord in the future.
Still others use the conditional tense to define their Spiritual perspective. If God will just do this for me, then I will do whatever. With them, there are always conditions added to serving Jesus.
God’s name by definition is present tense. “Moses, tell them “I AM” has sent you.” Not only is God’s name present tense, but throughout the Bible we are encouraged to live our Spiritual lives in the present tense. Nothing really matters except what you do today!
Let me encourage you this week to begin living your Spiritual life in the present tense. Let the past and future takecare of themselves, and by no means put conditions to serving Jesus.
Presently speaking,
Brother Barnabas
Purebreds
February 14, 2003
This past week the Westminster Dog Show was on television. It is the “superbowl” of dog shows. I had never paid much attention to it before, but this year I began watching. I think I began watching it because I was sick and could do little else. As I watched it I became intrigued with the show.
As a dog lover and owner I thought I knew lots about dogs. I soon discovered there were lots of things I never knew. There were many breeds of dogs that I had no idea existed. Some pure breeds actually looked like mix-breeds. There were all sorts of interesting facts I learned.
There were numerous stories the commentators were sharing concerning various breeds. There were several breeds that had almost gone extinct, but someone had compassion on this particular breed and saw to it that the breed both survived and flourished. The love and care for the animal was emphasized over and over. There was also talk of the value of owning a pure breed dog as opposed to a mix-breed.
There are several observations I have made concerning the dog show. One, although I thought I knew much about dogs I soon realized there are numerous breeds that I never knew existed or their importance. Similarly, it is easy to be so caught up in our immediate surroundings that we forget there are many people groups in the world that we may not know even exist nor of their importance. We must not forget to remember these people in our prayers. We must pray that the God of the harvest would call someone to these people. Perhaps that someone is you.
As some of these breeds almost became extinct because of a lack of love and concern we must not forget to demonstrate love and concern for humanity by sharing the love of Jesus with them. Contrary to some present day beliefs humanity is vastly more important to the heart of God than animals.
Most of us are not “blue-bloods.” We can’t trace our ancestry to the Mayflower or anything really significant. I thank God that He loves common people and gentiles such as myself just as much as He loves “blue-bloods” and, in our case, Israel.
Let me encourage you this week as you do your Christianity to remember no matter how much you may love and care for a pet the love and caring for people are much more important in God’s sight. Demonstrate your love and care by sharing Jesus.
Encouraging you to have a pure heart for people,
Brother Barnabas
Don’t Be Fooled
February 7, 2003
Athletic shoes have sure evolved over the past thirty years or so. I remember as a kid wearing Keds thinking I had the some of the best shoes possible. Other friends wore Converse Allstars. If one really wanted to be athletic one bought P.F. Fliers because they made you run faster and jump higher. In our lingo all these shoes were known as “tenny” shoes. Later I would find out that they were actually known as tennis shoes although they had very little to do with tennis.
As I have continued in sports playing a lot of tennis, I now wear K-Swiss when possible. I wear the ones with SI-18 technology because these are their best court shoes. For a long time I thought SI-18 was the name of the shoes. A salesperson told me I was mistaken. SI-18 was the technology in the shoe, but there were several court shoes with SI-18 technology in them. Insight for me!
I began thinking about how this relates to Christianity. One can have some of the characteristics of being a Christian, they may even be thought to be a Christian by others, but they themselves know they are one. I have a friend who tells in her testimony that people thought she was a Christian for a while because she exemplified some of the characteristics. She was nice, thoughtful, etc., therefore people thought she “had” to be a Christian. She wasn’t. She had “some of the technology” so to speak but she wasn’t a real SI-18 as in reference to the shoes.
As we go about witnessing and do our Christianity we will come across people who exhibit some of the characteristics of Christianity. We must not assume they are Christians because they have some of these characteristics. How will we know whether they are Christians or not? Simple, we ask them. If they aren’t Christians then we share with them the Gospel and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to them. Hopefully they will become Christians.
Let me encourage you this week to share the hope in you with others whether they exhibit some Christian characteristics or not. Never assume because you may see characteristics that a person is a genuine Christian.
No fooling around in encouraging you,
Brother Barnabas
Complexities
January 31, 2003
Remember how simple life use to be. When we were children most of us had few difficult decisions to make because they were made for us from trusted parents. Good and evil were easily distinguished. Superman was good. Lex Luther was bad. Color schemes were easier because there was mainly black and white. Those of us that grew up in church were taught the goodness of God, the love of Jesus, and the evilness of the devil.
Growing up has lots of advantages, but it also has its disadvantages. Life becomes less simple and more complex. Decision making isn’t always easy. Good and evil become much less distinguishable in many instances. Even black and white gives way to the color gray too often.
The church isn’t immune from these complexities. It use to be that to be called a Christian was enough. Being called a Christian spoke volumes about personal character. Now days we have to distinguish between Christians and Godly Christians. How ridiculous is that?! There was a time when the term “Godly Christian” would have been as redundant as is the term “refer back.”
It use to be that the church was a place of serenity and security. People enjoyed being in God’s house with God’s people. There are still lots of churches like that, but today many pastors and congregations can’t get along with each other. Instead of serene the church becomes another war zone. The simplicity of the Gospel has been replaced by the complexity of egos and ideas.
As life has become more complex it is important to remember or refer to the basics of being a Christian or a “Godly Christian.” Let me recall a few of these. Remember there is One Holy God manifested in three equal persons of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. To receive God’s free gift of salvation one must acknowledge and repent of his sinfulness and receive Jesus as his only Saviour and Lord. To grow as a Christian one must spend adequate time in prayer, Bible study, and with God’s people. We are to share our faith.
We must prioritize our lives by placing God first, others second, and ourselves last. We must love each other even when we don’t really like each other. We are supposed to finish well.
Encouraging you in the complexities of life,
Brother Barnaba s
Stoned Again
January 24, 2003
Last Thursday evening a kidney stone decided to pay me an unexpected visit. It popped up unannounced, and let me know that it was going to be around for awhile. In fact, Saturday morning around 1:15am it decided it wanted to see a local emergency room and have its picture taken via cat scan while causing me nothing but pain all the while.
I survived the weekend and called my physician on Monday morning. He referred me to a urologist who worked me in on Monday and found more of the unwelcome visitors. He scheduled me to have the stones removed Wednesday morning. All was looking good until Tuesday afternoon around 4:40pm. I was told my insurance wouldn’t grant the procedure to be done without a predetermination. Oh no, the pain stays.
Wednesday morning after discussion with my insurance company, I was told it would be covered after all. I told them I wasn’t angry but disappointed. If they had acted promptly I would be out of pain by now. Thankfully, I was rescheduled for Friday morning.
I don’t believe God allows me to go through some of this stuff in order to have analogies for Barnabas. However, when the analogy is there I better use it. Pain can be spiritually invigorating. When my pain from the stone became too great for me, I did something about it even at 1:00am. People will often neglect their spiritual responsibility until the threshold of pain in their lives becomes too great for them to handle. When the pain becomes too great, they will either turn to God for comfort or turn away perhaps for good.
Tuesday afternoon I came close to anticipating that my pain would be gone on Wednesday morning (the day the surgery), but due to a lack of decision, I had to wait until another time. I had gotten close, but close wasn’t good enough. People can get close to getting spiritual pain out of their lives, but if they aren’t careful they will get close without getting cured. They may join a church, or pray, or do all sorts of things but repent of their sins and invite Jesus into their lives.
Let me encourage you this week that if you are experiencing pain to get the cure whatever it takes. Whether it’s through a first time commitment or a recommitment don’t get close; get the cure. Christians to be attentive to the pain in people’s lives. Loving Jesus doesn’t exclude anyone from pain in fact loving Jesus may bring more pain. Be willing to aid hurting people for Jesus’ sake.
No pain in encouraging you,
Brother Barnaba s
Grace
January 17, 2003
How ironic!! Last week I wrote on doing things with excellence. I sent out the email bb and began reading once more what I had written and sent out. To my chagrin I noticed more "typo’s" than I had written in a while. It was too late to correct what had been sent out on the internet, but it wasn’t too late to ask Deena to make corrections for the singles bulletin on Sunday. I called her and told her of the noticed mistakes. She alerted me to a couple of mistakes too. I had written on doing things with excellence, but this bb was far from excellent in writing quality.
As I talked with my friend and collaborator David Nobles, it was suggested that I write this one on grace. He was "write" in line.
No matter how good our intentions are sometimes as fallen humans we blow stuff or mess up well intended things. The message to last week’s bb was good, but I was careless and in a hurry in getting it out. The result was a good message packaged in sloppy writing. I can only wish that last week’s bb was the only thing I had messed up.
We all are guilty of messing things up periodically and sometimes more often that periodically. Sometimes our mess ups can be corrected without much effort, but sometimes mess ups take a lot of effort. Sometimes mess ups don’t get completely corrected ever.
Mess ups remind me of my fallen humanity with all sorts of good intentions. It reminds me how imperfect I am and how perfect God is. God takes our worse mess ups and corrects them through His forgiveness. Of course correcting our mess ups is very costly. It cost the life, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus to correct our ultimate mess up which was and is sin and rebellion against a Holy God. Though redeemed we still willfully sin against God. We still mess up.
We are in constant need of God’s fellowship, direction, and forgiveness in our lives. Our lives depend on God cleaning up and correcting our mess ups.
Let me encourage you this week to work on not messing up. However, when you mess up don’t forget to "fess up" to the ones you’ve mess up with when needed. Don’t forget to "fess up" to the only One that can ultimately correct our mess ups and even forgive them.
"Fessing" and encouraging you in my mess ups,
Brother Barnabas
Another Tie?
January 10, 2003
Though the holidays are over there are still some lessons to be learned and observations to be made concerning them. One deals with guys receiving ties at Christmas time. I noticed numerous advertisers seeking to sell their "stuff" trying to belittle giving or receiving ties at Christmas. One would think that receiving a tie would worse than having no gift whatsoever. I laughed as I watched those adds, and they became more numerous as Christmas approached even closer. I laughed because I would love to have received not only a tie but several ties. Of course I want to qualify my tie receiving.
I would love to have received a tie or ties if they were Brioni, Zenya, or even Armani. I have a Zenya and a few Brioni’s, my first given to me as a Christmas present from a close friend, and the others were bought on sale. They’re exquisite. Almost without exception when I wear one I receive a compliment not because others know that it’s a Brioni but because it looks and wears exceptionally well. I own other ties that aren’t expensive, but they do have to look good. I hate shoddy ties.
This line of thought triggered my mind to church activities and programs. Whenever these are done they must be done with care and be quality or they shouldn’t be done at all. I’ve been to and even been guilty of doing activities and such that were basically thrown together with little thought. I then expected church members to show up because the church was doing something. How arrogant is that? How dare we throw something together with little thought or preparation and not only expect people to show up but to also to support and applaud the event or program. This thought could even transfer into the arena of worship services.
We the church, the body of Christ, possess ultimate truth yet we package it and try to display it in a manner that sometimes isn’t worthy of a worm much less the Lord Jesus the King of glory. Everything doesn’t have to be expensively, but it must be done well with integrity.
Let me encourage you this year to have activities and programs at church. When you have them though they may not be expensive to have, make sure they have quality and integrity.
"Tieing" to be an encouragement to you,
Brother Barnabas
Now What?
January 3, 2003
I love this time of year. It’s not the weather in Oklahoma I love, I seldom love the weather in OK, but it’s this transition time from an old year to a new year. During this time annually there is the opportunity for a new genesis in our lives. It helps remind me that God is the God of the second, third, and so forth chance.
The disciples had walked with Jesus after the resurrection outside of Jerusalem. He began giving them some last instructions when suddenly He was ascended into heaven from them. As they stared into the sky with all sorts of questions two men in white, angels perhaps, asked them why. The two men told the disciples this same Jesus which was taken from them would one day return in like manner. I’m sure the disciples must have looked at each other and asked, "Now what?!"
Each of us has times of "now what?!" with the Lord in our own lives. It may be the result of experiencing some good times, difficult times, changes physically as in moving or physical health changes, changes spiritually, or any number of events. We ask "now what" and either worry or anticipate what the answer from the Lord Jesus will be.
To get the answer or answers to the "now what" we need to become more like the disciples. They were attentive, available, and obedient. They were attentive in that they listened to all that Jesus told them. They were available in that they stayed together as a unit and did not disband. They were obedient in that they stayed together in Jerusalem until they had received what had been promised. They devoted themselves to the Lord, each other, and to prayer.
As a result, the Lord gave them the "now what." A short time after they received the promise of the Holy Spirit was were filled both with the Holy Spirit and with boldness. These same timid wondering men turned the spiritual world upside down. As the Lord gave them their "now what" He can and will do the same for you.
Let me encourage you this week to ask the Lord, "Now what?" Be attentive, available, and obedient to what He tells you. He will be more than willing to show you as He did the disciples your answer.
Encouraging you now,
Brother Barnabas