The Man Who Walked With God

 “Enoch walked with God.” - Genesis 5:22, 24

“By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.” - Hebrews 11:5

If you were to ask the average Christian to name a great man from the Bible, few, if any, would respond with the name of Enoch. Yet God saw him as a great man. In fact, God had the legacy of Enoch memorialized in the hall of fame of Faith, Hebrews 11.

In just a few verses, we learn that Enoch was a man that was different from others of his generation. He was singled out in the books of Genesis and Hebrews as a man who had a special relationship with the Lord. What made this man so special? Let me share three things the Bible teaches about Enoch.

1.  HIS TRUST

First of all, we learn that Enoch trusted God. He was a man of God. Hebrews 11:5 states, “By faith, Enoch was translated ...” Enoch lived by faith. He trusted God. Although he did not possess either the Old or New Testaments, he trusted the Lord. What is keeping us from trusting God?

It is easy for us to idolize others, especially those in the Bible. Yet we must keep in mind that Enoch was just a man. What made him unique was his faith in God. As a man, Enoch was not outstanding, but his God was outstanding. The greatness of Enoch was really found in the greatness of his God. Enoch was a man of faith.

2.  HIS TESTIMONY

Secondly, we see his testimony. The book of Genesis testifies, “Enoch walked with God.” The writer of Hebrews put it this way, “By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.” What a great testimony to have! He walked with God. He pleased God.

What kind of testimony will you leave behind? I find Enoch to be a great example for us. Although he was a family-man, Enoch was known best for his walk with God. Shouldn't that be the same for us?

3.  HIS TRANSLATION

It would be great to have the epitaph written on a tombstone: “He walked with God,” or “He pleased God.” That was not the case for Enoch because he didn't have a tombstone. He never died! The book of Genesis simply says, “And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him." (Genesis 5:24). Hebrews 11:5 states that Enoch was, “... translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him.” In a moment, God took Enoch away. This is similar to the upcoming rapture. God will take His children away in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye. Enoch was a unique man who lived a unique life and left this world in a unique way. God translated him.

Could this be the generation that experiences a similar translation? Could it be that Jesus will return in our lifetime? I don't know the answer to this, but I do believe that we are being called to walk with God, just as Enoch did. Such a walk will impact those around us and those who follow us. Enoch left a great legacy that we still read about today. Apart from Jude's reference to Enoch being a prophet, we know little about Enoch's activities. Instead, the Bible seems to concentrate on his godly life.

Although there is a need for Christian activity, there is a greater need for Christian character. This is formed in the prayer closet rather than the mission field. We need more men and women who walk with God. Certainly this will impact our homes, jobs and communities, but this impact is just fruit of a life devoted to God.

It is possible for us to walk with God ourselves. It begins with a salvation experience and matures with ongoing communion with the Lord.

The greatest goal of my life is to have an intimate walk with God. When my life is over, others may praise God for the good deeds He accomplished through my life, but most of all, I want people to honestly say of me, “He walked with God.”

Difference Makers

 “And of some have compassion, making a difference.” - Jude 22

Each year, Indiana Wesleyan University inducts a high-profile Christian into their “Society of World Changers.” The purpose of this event is to spotlight a believer who models Christian character while impacting the world. See https://www.indwes.edu/about/world-changers/. Past inductees include Dr. James Dobson, John Maxwell, Bill & Gloria Gaither, Kirk Cameron and Joni Eareckson Tada, among others. I think most believers would agree that these individuals have certainly impacted the world in various ways.

I believe that there are many who are impacting the world without being famous. It is possible to be a difference maker without having a famous platform. In fact, it is my belief that the greatest difference is being made by people who will never be world-famous or inducted into the Society of World Changers. Instead, these obscure people are known by God and will be rewarded by Him in heaven.

The big question is this: are you a difference maker? You don't need to be famous or rich to make a difference. As a matter of fact, you may be used to make an incredible difference right where you are.

As I ponder history and observe people today, I have found three ingredients in the lives of difference makers:

1.  THEY ARE DARING

First of all, they are daring people. In other words, they act courageously. They live and walk by faith. They realize that only God makes a real difference, but He often makes that difference through the lives of His faithful, obedient children. Difference makers don't conform to the world. Instead, they long for God to change the world and are willing to be used in the process. Difference makers live unique lives. While they are criticized by pagans because of their faith, even the pagans must secretly admit that God is making a difference in and through these individuals. Difference makers tend to go where few go, do what few do and live as few live. They are daring, courageous and obedient to God.

2.  THEY ARE CARING

Difference makers are known for their love and concern. They do not seek the acclaim of men. They do not labor to be praised or rewarded by their peers. Instead, their compassion flows from an inner source. God puts that love within them. Difference makers have a mighty love for God, which compels them to love others in His Name. While others talk about love, difference makers demonstrate love in tangible ways. They don't brag or seek to be noticed for their contributions. Love is the reason they serve and show compassion.

3.  THEY ARE SHARING

Finally, difference makers are led of God to make their time, treasures and talents be used to help others in the Name of the Lord. They do more than occupy a church pew on Sunday. Through their lives, others are ministered to, helped and encouraged. They are willing to get their hands dirty and serve others. They are not ashamed to serve in menial ways. They will serve in obscurity with zeal. The only prize they wish to receive is the ultimate reward from the Lord. Just as they have received abundant grace from their Savior, they seek to be ambassadors of His grace to others, especially those that are overlooked or treated woefully by society. Often, such difference makers are not recognized until they are gone. Their absence leaves many unmet needs.

Lest I be misinterpreted, I want to make it clear that the real difference maker is the Lord Himself. He made the difference by daring to do the unthinkable. He cared enough to send His Son to die for lost men. Through His grace, He lovingly shares the bounty of heaven with repentance souls who come to Him through Jesus Christ. Yes, He dares, He cares and He shares. Those who've been impacted by His miraculous grace are often used of Him to be difference makers here on earth. Yet make no mistake about it, if a difference is made, it is really Christ accomplishing this work through His servant.

If you are a born-again believer, God has made a difference in you. Now He can make a difference through you. It is possible to be a difference maker right now, where you are, but God has to make that difference. Dare to believe and obey Him, regardless of the cost. Care for others, especially those forsaken by the world. Reach out and make the love of God know to others daily.

Being used by God as a difference maker may not result in respect, awards or praise of men. Those things should not be our motivation. Instead, seek to please God alone for your acts of kindness and ministry of grace. He will reward you for the secret deeds you performed in His Name.

Our world needs to be changed. Don't look to Washington or the United Nations for these changes. Instead, look up.

Lasting change can only come from God above.

Have A Happy New Year: Walk With God

 “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” - Micah 6:8

What's the most important thing you can do in the year to come? Certainly, there are many things you may be led to do, but I don't know of anything that is more important than walking with God daily.

There may be many things the Lord will use you to accomplish while walking with God, but there won't be anything more important that your spiritual walk itself.

As you are probably aware, there is a great deal of opposition to this. The enemy is bringing so many things your way to distract you and drain your time in an effort to keep you from spending time with the Lord. Your walk with God is vital. You must be very intentional about maintaining your fellowship with the Lord.

The Old Testament prophet wrote, “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” We must do right, treat others right and walk with God.

Those of us in ministry need to carefully protect our private time with God. Leonard Ravenhill once said that no man is greater than his prayer life. Today I read a blog by Pastor Steve Gaines entitled, “We Need Praying Preachers.” I think the title says it all. It is possible to generate good sermon titles, compelling outlines and applicable illustrations, and still not be the man of God you should be. The preacher needs the touch of God more than he needs an impressive sermon. The people he addresses needs this as well.

May this year be a year in which we walk with God.

1.  WALK WITH GOD IN PRAYER

First of all, walk with God in prayer. Let's make prayer a priority. Be intentional about scheduling an uninterrupted time with God daily. Pray dependently, trusting that God will hear and answer you. Pray with intensity. Realize that so many need help that only God can provide.

2.  WALK WITH GOD IN HIS PRECEPTS

Secondly, spend time in God's Word daily. Find an easy-to-read Bible and use it. Highlight and mark the Scriptures. Memorize verses. Stand on the promises of God's Word. Take God at His Word.

3.  WALK WITH GOD WITH PURPOSE

Finally, obey the Lord. Obey the Great Commission. Obey the Great Commandments. Obey the Scriptures.

If God blesses me to see the end of 2022, I want to look back and acknowledge that I have walked with Him all year.

What about you?

Merry Christmas!!!

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” 

- Luke 2:10-11

Today's blog entry will be very short. I just want to take a moment to thank each one of you who've read my weekly blog this year. You've tolerated my misspelling, improper grammar and unusual subject matter. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to read my scattering words.

While I am grateful for your involvement, I am more appreciative for the true meaning of this holiday. When the angels announced the arrival of Jesus, their news was considered, “good tidings of great joy.” In a world in which bad news, biased news and fake news abounds, we need good news. The arrival of Jesus is good news for us.

The word, “Gospel,” literally means, good news. It is still good news that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, made a planned visit to sinful humanity to redeem souls by His own blood. There is life through Him. Yes, I am pro-life because I am pro-Jesus. He came to give us life and life in abundance. This life is eternal and freely provided to us at great cost to Him. That is good news.

On this Christmas Day, let this good news cause your soul to overflow with gratitude, then share this good news with others.

I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas!

Christmas Music

 “... come before his presence with singing.” - Psalm 100:2

Let me get on the soap box for a moment and get something off my chest. I was at the doctor's office this week. As I waited in the examination room, music from a local radio station came through the wall speaker. Every song was about the upcoming Christmas holiday. Yet there was a glaring omission. Although the music was probably considered “Christmas music,” none of the songs even mentioned Jesus. Instead the songs were about snow, memories and holiday romance.

What has happened to us here in America? In an effort to be politically correct, we are trying to rewrite history. History doesn't need to be rewritten, it needs to be understood. In our effort to keep from offending anyone, we have removed statues, amended history books and tried to restructure our holidays.

We are overwhelmed with information while drowning in the sea of ignorance.

The holiday we call, “Christmas,” is among the victims in this endless parade of political correctness. Removing Jesus from Christmas has robbed the holiday of its richness and depth. Replacing Jesus with a fictional character of Santa Claus is a foolish idea. This week, I read how a priest had to apologize for telling children that Santa Claus was a myth. Indeed, the blind are leading the blind.

I may stand alone, but I wish to be heard on this subject. We need people of all backgrounds to understand that the holiday of Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ. Even the word, “Christmas,” has the word, “Christ,” within it. We need to get back to singing the great Christmas hymns like, “Silent Night,” and “Joy to the World.” There is nothing wrong with introducing people to newer Christmas songs like, “Mary, Did You Know?”

To my songwriter friends, let's not shy away from writing new songs about Christmas. Christmas is a very important part of the Gospel message. This generation needs new songs that convey the true message of Christmas. The world needs to understand that the babe in the manger would eventually be the One on the cross. Salvation only comes through Him.

As I was driving through town yesterday, I heard the voice of Elvis Presley through the loud speakers in downtown Mullens, WV. “Blue Christmas,” was a holiday hit for Elvis, but I don't consider it a favorite. Let's revive, “Away In the Manger,” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” At Christmas, we need to hear about Jesus, not heartache.

As I write this, tomorrow is Sunday, a day of worship. Lord willing, we'll be singing classic Christmas hymns at church. Our service will designed to honor Jesus. Shouldn't that be the way we live?

I'll get off my soap box now. It's true that we Christians tend to complain a lot. The fact is, there is much to complain about. However, I wish to be part of the solution and not just a complainer. During this holiday, I intend to sing and listen to Christ-honoring, Gospel-centered Christmas songs.

What about you?

Dealing With Depression

 “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.” - Psalm 42:5, 11, 43:5

As I write this, the Christmas holiday is fast approaching. One popular holiday song calls this holiday, “the most wonderful time of the year.” For many people this is true. It is time for family, giving and great food. However, there are some who will not be having a wonderful time. For these souls, the holidays are tough. They are dealing with loneliness and hopelessness.

Depression is a real problem in our society. There are a few well-meaning people who say that depression is caused by a lack of faith. Perhaps this is true of some, but most are dealing with issues that are far deeper than superficial advise will solve.

I do not offer this message as a cure-all for those who are depressed. I know better than that. I am not an expert on this subject, so don't treat my advise as being medical or professional advise. But I know that depressed people need the Lord to help them through their dreary fog of hopelessness.

The Psalmist must have known a little about such depression when he wrote, “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.” There are many who are cast down. Perhaps you are one of them.

The Psalmist advised the depressed to hope in God. I think this is vital for all who are depressed. I believe the Lord has placed modern medicine and great Christian counselors at our disposal to help in such situations. If you are depressed, seek the help you desperately need. Furthermore, get out of the house. The worst thing you can do is to live in isolation. You need to be around others. Open up to a close family member or Christian friend. Talk to your family doctor or pastor. Privately share with someone about your struggles. Let me encourage you today. There is hope for those suffering from depression. Your life may seem to be full of darkness, but be aware that there is light ahead.

For those of us who are not suffering from depression, we need to pay attention to those around us. Watch for warning signs. Check on those you are concerned about. Give them a call. Visit them. Send them a card or letter. Invite them to dinner. Show love and compassion to them. While it may be a wonderful time of the year for you, it may be nightmare for them.

Depression is real. It appears like Elijah may have suffered from it after the encounter on Mount Carmel. After a great spiritual event, Elijah was praying for God to end his life. Charles Spurgeon, the great preacher, also suffered from, “the dark night of the soul.” If you are suffering from depression, you're not alone.

There is help available. When Elijah was depressed, God led him to enlist Elisha as a friend. Elijah mentored Elisha. This fellowship seemed to help Elijah. Spurgeon found levels of help as he shared his struggles publicly from the pulpit and his writings.

You can't defeat depression alone. You need God and others. Fortunately, this help is available to you right now.

There is hope for depression.

Why Jesus Came

 “Thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” - Matthew 1:21

We are fast approaching the Christmas holiday. There is a big push by retailers to get us to shop with them. This year, retailers are counting on the public to shop locally after a down year in 2020. Online retailers are sending emails and buying ads on social media sites, trying to lure us to their website so we may buy Christmas gifts from them. Like or not, many businesses rely on the holidays for a significant portion of their profitability.

Of course the commercialization of Christmas has distracted millions from the true meaning of the holiday. We have substituted Santa Claus in place of Jesus. We have replaced the virgin birth of Christ with gift-giving. We no longer refer to Christmas as the celebration of the Savior's birth. Instead, it has been downgraded into a secular holiday. Any attempt to put Jesus back into Christmas is considered to be politically incorrect and intolerant of other religions.

I may be the only voice in the crowd with this opinion, but I share it anyhow. December 25^th was set aside many years ago as the date we remember Jesus' birth. It should be celebrated as such. Quite honestly, we do not have an actual record of the exact date of Jesus' birthday. Perhaps it was December 25^th. In any case, December 25^th is the date that has been designated to remember His birth.

Even among those who recognize Christmas as Jesus' birthday, few comprehend the meaning behind His arrival. If you were to interview people about Christmas, some may respond that Christmas is about Jesus' birth, but few really understand why He came. Why was His birth so remarkable? What is the big deal about Jesus and His birthday?

Jesus came for a specific reason. He came on a divine mission that directly impacts your life and mine. Jesus said that he came to seek and to save them which are lost. That is why He came. As Matthew 1:21 states: “Thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” Jesus' arrival was to bring salvation to the lost. Instead of viewing His birth as a mere holiday, we need to recognize it has a divine act of mercy, an urgent rescue mission.

Too many consider Jesus to be a good teacher and example, but we need to look to His real mission. He is the Messiah, our Savior and Lord. Jesus Christ came to save us from our sins. Our plight was hopeless until God stepped in and provided the remedy we needed. We were hell-bound sinners, deserving of everlasting wrath because of our sins. Yet God did the unthinkable: He send His Son to take the wrath that we deserved, so that through Him, we may have everlasting life. That is why Jesus came.

It is true that Jesus taught great lessons. He lived a perfect life that we should desire to imitate. He performed great miracles. Through these things He certainly validated His claim of being the Son of God. But it didn't stop there. His miraculous virgin-birth was certainly required, but it isn't the greatest miracle of all. His death and resurrection were the greatest validation that He is the Messiah, the Savior of the world.

Our only hope of heaven is found in Jesus alone. While others brag about their works, accomplishments and religious activity, I'll still rest in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

If you really want to know why Jesus came, look in the mirror.