“A Lesson From A Smelly Skunk”
July 31, 2012
Our friend Lee Smucker sent us this interesting photo he took at an Amish horse auction here in Lancaster County. These auctions are not only practical but major social events in the Amish culture. Some buy horses as a sign of prestige much like the automobile in the non-Amish culture.
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“A Lesson From A Smelly Skunk”
One of my daily early morning routines includes taking our two dogs out to visit our cat “Dottie” who lives in our barn/shed. I say “Let’s go see Dottie” and they both seem to know the routine. Dottie is always pleased to have some company but she sheds so bad and has a clawing problem we don’t keep her in our house.
Then I step out into the open air and take a deep breath using my lungs and putting to good use my olfactory glands. Usually breathing in the fresh country air prompts me to give thanks for the privilege of living out in the country away from large buildings, busy traffic, and free of an oppressed government. But occasionally I’ll get a whiff that is a warning not to breathe in too deeply such as the morning after a field has been fertilized (organic) or an uninvited skunk comes for a visit such as the one we share about today.
We had stepped out of our car and immediately picked up the ugly smell of a skunk. “Pe-ew”, I reacted to the silent but potent intruder. Brooksyne smiled and responded, “Gloria a Dios* reminding me of an interesting perspective we had heard in church earlier. A Brazilian brother who only spoke in Portuguese introduced a song through an English translator and was recalling how his father-in-law would express appreciation for all of God’s creatures. Early each morning he’d walk outside and greet the outdoor creatures. He would say “Good morning little skunk.” Now how’s that for a positive outlook!
As I breathed in the skunk contaminated air I got to thinking about the skunk that was functioning as God designed; a small mammal less than 5% my body weight being able to overpower me in such an irritating way. Their spray can also cause irritation and even temporary blindness. One odorous spray can be detected by a human nose up to a mile downwind. The foul odor of a skunk’s secreted liquid has been described as a mix of rotten eggs, garlic and burnt rubber. Thankfully, this morning the air is fresh, there are no foul odors, and it looks like we might get a shower or two!
Today most of us will encounter some “skunk smells”; perhaps literally, but many more figuratively. How are we going to deal with them? Are we able to say, “Gloria a Dios” or do we say something we’d rather others not hear.
Our daily verse is very familiar and most likely many of you have memorized it. You should! Let’s look at a single word in the text today. “In.” I note a consistency in all major translations in using this word and I feel it’s very significant. In this text Paul does not use the word “for”. He uses the word “in”. I believe he’s speaking of living a thankful life; being thankful “in” the midst of pleasant circumstances and “in” the midst of difficult circumstances.
The “everything” of life includes the good reports as well as the bad reports. The worldly outlook of thankfulness includes giving thanks only for the good. God’s Word says “in everything”. After all, as Christians we have an assurance that “God is working all things out for good for those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
In living a life of thankfulness those of us who seek to do the will of God are clearly obeying a Biblical mandate. Let us be thankful even when we get a whiff of skunk smell!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Gloria a Dios for the blessed gift of our five senses. Our surroundings become very much alive to us through our sense of touching, smelling, tasting, hearing and seeing; all a part of Your plan to help us navigate our way through life as we journey here below. And yet it is through these senses that we also experience the irritations of life, the undesirable circumstances that can prompt an attitude of grumbling instead of gratitude, unless we have developed a sixth sense, the sense of gratitude which does away with grumbling. It doesn’t come as naturally as the five senses but Your Word develops our sense of gratitude as we apply its truths and prayerfully adapt it to our way of looking at things. Help us to give thanks in everything, for this is Your will, through Christ Jesus our Lord, in whose name we pray. Amen.
* Gloria a Dios is translated “Glory to God”
Brooksyne’s note: I wish it was as natural to thank God for the skunk smell as it is when I smell the sumptuous baking chocolate from Wilbur Chocolate Factory in Mount Joy. It takes me back to my childhood when Mom make numerous batches of fudge at Christmas. It’s a delightful aroma that comes to our neighborhood frequently. But I am thankful God has given discernment to our sense of smell to rule out danger. It’s a blessing we usually take for granted and in certain instances do not appreciate.
“In Everything Give Thanks” Video Charlotte Ritchie, Jeff & Sheri Easter
Whenever we are driving along and smell a skunk, someone will say, “I smell a skunk, do you?” Then we just might spontaneously launch into the chorus of the “Dead Skunk Song” Video I didn’t know that there were actually verses as we just recall the chorus (Note: This video is not intended for spiritual edification!)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“Reaping A Harvest”
July 30, 2012
Last week my neighbor Eli harvested hay here on Kraybill Church Road. It’s quite an operation for one man and obviously he’s not too concerned about how the hay stacks on the wagon! (I assume he stops every so often to restack it.)
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“Reaping A Harvest”
On Friday evening we attended a Missions Banquet featuring the ministry of Bruce and Merly Bundy who have served in Spain since the late eighties. During the meal I sat next to Galen, a farmer friend I often refer to in this series, and we discussed the harvest in light of the dry weather we have had. However the last week or so the rains finally came through and I was interested in his projections for the harvest. He told me that his early planting of corn would have to be harvested for silage (chopping up the stalk and all for animal feed rather than for the grain). Generally the goal is a grain harvest but Galen was upbeat about the rains and the impact on his later corn harvest.
It’s interesting the times the Bible uses the harvest as an analogy of our service for Christ and His Kingdom. Four years ago Bruce and Merly came to our home for dinner and fellowship. Spain is a notoriously challenging country for missionaries and we shared together about the inevitable discouragements of ministry as well as the tremendous blessing of impacting others for Christ and eternity, an impact that Bruce and Merly measure one soul at a time.
Great revivals and crusades that present the salvation message impact the kingdom greatly, but just as effective or perhaps more, is the one on one witness of faithful followers. Mr. Jenner is a man who faithfully witnessed in a simple way in Sydney, Australia for many years. He saw very little visible fruit from his spiritual labors, but then he learned only weeks before his death that scores of people had been impacted through his faithful testimony. (Two video links to this story are below and will bless you tremendously.)
Those of us living for Christ are called to impact the world around us for His cause. Husbands and wives are to demonstrate unity in their love for one another. Parents are to raise their children in the training and instruction of the Lord. Ministers are to “preach the word”. Yet we at times wonder if we are making any significant difference since the harvest we see may be sparse. Some do not have a marriage characterized by love and unity. Some have children who reject the Lord. There are ministers who faithfully “preach the Word” yet see little receptivity.
The perspective we must have is the future harvest promised in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
But we do at times become weary in doing good, don’t we? The apostle Paul knew the Galatian believers were growing weary and encouraged them to keep on keeping on for the future harvest. In our “instant gratitude” society we especially have difficulty waiting for “the proper time” for God’s blessings to be revealed. Our mindset is more like a lot of commercials selling high priced items on credit, interest free for the first year. They appeal to customers who have the attitude, “I want it and I want it now”, rather than save up money for a future purchase.
At times our lives just don’t seem to be making much difference from our visual perspective. But Paul reminds us that, “at the proper time we will reap a harvest.” That “proper time” (“due season” in the KJV) will most assuredly come. Don’t give up! Your life, lived for Christ, is making a difference. Our primary motivation for all that we do in the Name of Christ must be based on our desire to obey Him. A competitive spirit, statistics, people’s expectations, or a desire to impress others which stems from a prideful heart can too easily become the drive that misguides our motives and can thereby affect our actions.
But, as always, God works from the inside out. We can’t impress Him but we can respond to His love for us. And our love for God must be the motivation for all that we do. “Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.”
At His appointed time He will bless us with a harvest as we remain faithful in our Christian walk (Proverbs 4:26,27), seasoned in our conversation (Colossians 4:6), and prayerful for those we influence for the kingdom (Romans 10:1).
Remember this very important truth: unlike farmers who expect a harvest at the end of each season of planting our harvest will not be fully realized on this side of heaven. The abundant harvest will be revealed after we have pulled up the stakes from our earthly dwelling here on earth. So hang on, dear friend, the half has not yet been told!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, like Paul who desired that his kinsmen not be destroyed by their sin of unbelief, we too bear a burden for our fellowman that they come to repentance and find salvation through Christ Jesus our Lord. Jude warns us that there will be mockers in the last time who walk according to their own ungodly lusts. We see it with our eyes and it is evident in the news every day. But we are encouraged in our witness knowing that salvation is available to any mocker or unbeliever who turns to you in repentance. Jesus is the only name under heaven by which we can be saved so we proclaim Him who lived among the people, was sacrificed for our sins, was buried and rose on the third day. How we pray that the life of Christ might resonate through our lives so that others might see Jesus in us. It is in Jesus’ name that we pray for a plentiful harvest in declaring the gospel through our witness and our lives. Amen.
Saturday afternoon we attended a surprise 90th birthday party for our friend, Paul Simmons pictured here with his wife, Violet, who recently celebrated her 89th. Paul has had some health issues but they get along very well and he still drives them to church each Sunday. They are part of the steady, older generation we appreciate so much.
Ester and I attended a minor league baseball game Thursday night in York PA. We were there at a function for CBMC. After hearing a speaker and enjoying a meal we sat down to enjoy the ballgame. However in the second inning a major storm came through and the game was canceled. However I had a nice visit with Darryl Eyler, who I worked with about ten years ago.
Yesterday we returned to New Beginning Church in Spring Grove, PA where we served in an interim role six years ago. Stephen preached and we enjoyed some great food and fellowship later with friends at the Old Country Buffet.
Another photo of our neighbor’s hay harvest.
“Jenner’s Question” Video Outstanding testimony from his daughter about her father’s impact.
“I Am Not Ashamed Of The Gospel” Video Heritage Singers
“What A Day That Will Be” Video Heritage Singers For those who long to “look upon His face, the One who saved me by His grace”. And for those who long to exchange these imperishable bodies for the imperishable your hearts will be lifted by this old time favorite. The words of this song remind us of the joys of heaven with the absence of sin. A nice arrangement with the gifted voices of the Heritage Singers. (Yesterday morning we sang this from the hymnal and it blessed both Stephen and me so much as we later talked together about the joys of heaven!)
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“Taking A Faithful Stand”
July 27, 2012
We enjoy this peaceful scene of a windmill and barn with the backdrop of a nearly cloudless blue sky
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“Taking A Faithful Stand”
Many of you know our daughter is named Ester, spelled a bit differently than the Bible reference and pronounced Astaire (or as we like to explain, “Astaire as in the dancer/actor Fred Astaire”). We were at Boston Children’s Hospital six years ago where Ester had an operation for a heart pacemaker. We met a Jewish rabbi’s wife who was serving as a volunteer. She inquired about Ester and when she heard us call her by name she informed us that we pronounce her name the way it would be pronounced in Hebrew, which is the language of the Old Testament. (In reality we pronounce her name like the Spanish since she came originally to us at 3 months of age from Guatemala and that is the way they pronounced it.)
Esther is one of two Bible books with a woman’s name, the other being Ruth. Esther lived at the time of the Persians and was providentially given a role in which she could make a significant impact.
The Biblical Esther demonstrates extraordinary faith during a time of great despair and today’s brief text is one of the great expressions of faith in the Bible. Esther was taking a risky stand on a matter and knew that she faced the possibility of dire consequences. We are assuming some familiarity with Esther’s predicament which can be read in Esther 4. With resolution she took a faithful stand and concluded with, “If I perish, I perish.”
All over the world since people began to take a stand for God’s truth they have been paying a price. Sometimes they “perish” in the sense of giving up their life. This happened in the Bible with people like Stephen, James and many others. It certainly has happened all through church history, including our own day, though it is under reported in the record books.
In other cases “perish” may be paying a price such as the confiscation of property, imprisonment, separation from loved ones or the loss of a job.
But we can be confident of ultimate deliverance. Sometimes deliverance results in more time on this earth; other times it’s being ushered into the presence of Almighty God. Because of the work of Christ on our behalf we are assured that though we may perish in this life we will not face the ultimate and dreaded penalty of those who perish for all eternity.
Be encouraged today and take a faithful stand no matter the outcome!
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, help us to keep the eternal perspective ever before us when weighing choices in this temporal life here below. It seems the gap is widening between those who accept the truths of the Bible taught since the beginning of time and those who are increasingly accepting of a secular society that trumps human wisdom over divine wisdom. But You call us to account for our allegiance and our actions. If taking a stand for You on this side of eternity causes us to perish, we are assured that on the other side we will inherit eternal life. Keep us faithful and trusting no matter what comes our way. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Yesterday I passed a church with a changeable message sign that announced the message for the coming Sunday titled “Living In Philadelphia”. I was intrigued by the title and since we live relatively near the US city in Pennsylvania I wonder if it might be a report by someone who lived there, perhaps doing mission work. But it got me thinking concerning the original Philadelphia, a city in Asia Minor and one of the seven churches in Revelation. Perhaps the pastor will draw an analogy between this city and our current living conditions. It sure does make me consider that approach with several of the cities and the similarities to our own time.
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“One Way”
July 26, 2012
Amish hay harvest
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“One Way”
I find it encouraging when people try to get in a witness for the Lord using creative means. Yesterday I passed a business named Thru It All Body Shop along West Main Street in Mount Joy. Intrigued by the name years ago, I stopped by to speak to the owner and learned that it was named after a popular gospel song from the seventies. Years ago I heard the testimony of the owner of a trucking company in Pittsburgh who named his company “Wonder Transport” from a line in a Fannie Crosby hymn.*
Early this week I spoke to a York County businessman associated with CBMC, a Christian Businessman’s organization I belong to. Tonight Ester and I are going to a baseball game in York and he was the contact person for an event sponsored by CBMC. When I ordered our tickets I noticed his email address was @onewayjanitorial.com.
Intrigued by the domain name I asked him what the business name meant. Perhaps suspicious as to why I would ask he told me it could have several meanings, one being in the sense of there being one right way to do the job. But he also acknowledged it was a witness attempt and the company website states, “Our goal is to conduct business in a manner that might bring glory to God.” May the Lord bless that company!!!
I recall the popularity of the one way expression in my early days as a Christian in the seventies, as well as the upraised index finger in proclaiming that Jesus is the one and only way to heaven. I had a paperback NT with a large fluorescent orange One Way decal on the back. In the halls of Truman High School in Independence Missouri it was a gesture we used to proclaim our faith to our fellow Christians. Brooksyne says it was the same in her Tulsa high school. In most circles presently that gesture would indicate “My team is #1″
Years ago I met some college students on a leadership retreat in Oklahoma. One young lady had a t-shirt that displayed these Greek characters:
καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια
καὶ ἡζωή
I looked at the shirt, recognized it was Greek and pronounced the words and then translated the phrase to English.
We visited for a few minutes and her campus ministry leader came along and shared with us as well. The shirt was an expression of her faith in Christ. She told me that I was the first one who had ever come up and read the verse to her and then translated it, but the intent was for others to approach her and ask, “What does that mean?” This would then give her an opportunity to express her faith. Now that’s an interesting witnessing approach!
The Greek phrase printed on the student’s T-shirt were the very words of our Lord Jesus Christ taken from John 14:6. Translated into English they read,
and the Truth
and the Life.”
(The entire verse states, “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”)
That is the essential message we must present to our world. Those of us who boldly and unashamedly assert the Biblical exclusivity of Jesus Christ as the only way to the Father are increasingly maligned as ignorant and intolerant. Well, label me. So be it. That is what our Lord Jesus taught! Today, and even when the Son of Man walked on the earth, His statement might be considered the very essence of intolerance.
The early apostles were also very “intolerant” in this regard. They proclaimed, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). And later the apostle Paul wrote, “There is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5).
May God help us today to contend for the truth and the faith once for all entrusted to the saints!” (See Jude 3.)
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, there are so many paths that one might take thinking they’re headed the right way only to find the long roads lead to a dead end. As believers, we know that there is only one way to the Father in heaven and that is through Christ Jesus His Son who declares, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life”. We also cannot earn our salvation because You give it freely though it came at great cost. We choose to receive Your gift of salvation through our faith in Jesus Christ our Lord. We are immensely grateful for Your love and generosity toward us. Amen.
Here’s all of John 14:6 in the Greek: λέγει αὐτῷ [ὁ] Ἰησοῦς· ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ ὁδὸς καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια καὶ ἡζωή· οὐδεὶς ἔρχεται πρὸς τὸν πατέρα εἰ μὴ δι’ ἐμοῦ.
We hear a lot today about tolerance. It seems to me that tolerance is reckoned as among the greatest virtues of the modern age and being labeled as intolerant is anathema. But the people who tend to cry intolerant are themselves very intolerant of those not holding their view. It’s one of the great issues in the continued “no absolutes” mindset that our culture is bombarded with. This is particularly damaging to impressionable young people and is infecting the church as well.
Although the concept of absolute or relative truth may seem merely philosophical to some, it is at the very heart of our battle against the forces of evil. It’s deadly. The Scriptures declare, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death” (Proverbs 14:12). But today scores of people contend that there are many valid views about what constitutes right or wrong. Even asserting that there is a single right way is unloving and intolerant to many.
Ester’s dog Mollie enjoys playing Frisbee catch immensely. We’re practically unable to throw anything she can’t catch. However thus far we have also been unable to find a Frisbee that she doesn’t destroy, including Kong and all those other “indestructible” Frisbees made for tough dogs!
She takes pleasure in chewing holes in the Frisbee so that she can more easily carry it that way (Although I am not a dog psychologist I suppose this is why she does it).
* The Fannie Crosby song “To God Be The Glory” has the line “Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.” Video Studio musicians
For the curious:
http://www.thruitallbodyshop.com/
http://onewayjanitorial.com/
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“An Asset To The Planet”
July 25, 2012
Lancaster County Amish dairy farm at harvest time
taken by my brother, Mike Weber
Click here for larger view.
Being raised in the country Brooksyne stated,
“A walk down that dirt path looks so inviting.”
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“An Asset To The Planet”
I received a gracious commendation recently from one who holds a political, religious, and ideological outlook very different than my own. Nevertheless he expressed genuine appreciation toward the modest contribution I make in my sphere of influence. “You’re an asset to the planet” he said to me over the phone yesterday. Well, that got me to thinking in a Biblical sense about people who are an asset to the planet. Of much greater importance, and Biblically speaking, they’re an asset to the Kingdom of God.
Consider those who have made a significant impact in your life. If we were able to do a survey of all who read this message we would probably have some common names, those better known who may have a national and even an international ministry. I expect that among those listed would be godly parents and grandparents, pastors, Sunday School teachers and many others, including those who witnessed to you, either in words or in their actions, even when you refused to listen, both literally and figuratively.
I recall a phrase from my years of ministry training, “Do something big for God” which is a great aspiration. But doing something big for God is often a series of small, seeming insignificant attempts to be an asset to the Kingdom. Most of us are just not in a place today that we can do something really big for God, but we can all seek ways to let our light shine to a darkened world around us in the small things. Let us listen to God’s promptings and obey His voice!
Years ago I received this bit of wisdom from an older person: “The older I get, the more I realize that it is in the small moments that we can affect others’ lives forever. Grand accomplishments mean nothing. I am discovering that brightening a single moment in even one person’s life in a day is important to Christ.”
Consider the Apostle Paul’s words to the Corinthians. “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things–and the things that are not–to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before Him” (1 Corinthians 1:27-29). Let us be humble in ourselves, but let us be boastful in the things of the Lord.
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, our little becomes great as You show us how to do good works in Your name. We choose not to be crippled by our limited abilities, wisdom, or lack of creativity. We don’t give to others according to that which we don’t have, but we give to others from the abundance You pour into our lives. May it overflow into those around us as we seek to be a blessing. Direct our footsteps according to Your Word as You give us opportunity for divine encounters this day as we reach out to others in the name of Christ Jesus. It is in His name we pray. Amen.
Recent feedback: We don’t often post feedback although we sure appreciate it and find it encouraging.
My former District Superintendent whom we visited last week:
Dear Steve & Brooksyne,
Thanks for stopping by to visit us yesterday. We thoroughly enjoyed your visit and if Jesus tarries and spares us, we trust you can do it again….It was nice to see our photo in Daily Encouragement. Because of your wide and growing circulation it will let some of our mutual friends that we are still “kicking” at 85 and 84. We are so grateful for the nearly 65 years he has allowed us to serve Him together! May similar blessings be yours! Keep up the great work ever remembering: “Be not weary in well doing for in due season ye shall reap if ye faint not”!
Remembering you in our prayers with Thanksgiving,
Ed & Gladys Berkey
Tommy Carpenter, a minister friend from Arkansas:
Regarding our message on the Delilah Road:
Was the Delilah Road the way to the barber shop? Just a thought? However, the faithfulness of Daniel is an excellent example for us….
A South African reader in reference to yesterday’s message:
Hi Stephen,
Regarding your message of 24 July 2012 you made mention of Morning Glories. I too like their colors and have used their profusion with great effect on garden fences and screens. Unfortunately due to their invasive nature and their detrimental effect on indigenous vegetation (much like the tares in Jesus’ Parable) and the fact they are not indigenous to our country which has water as a scarce resource, they have been declared “invasive aliens” and anyone found still cultivating them is liable for prosecution.
Keep on encouraging!
Shalom.
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“The Creator Of The Ends Of The Earth”
July 24, 2012
A peek into our back yard early this morning
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“The Creator Of The Ends Of The Earth”
As we often mention in this series we live out in the country and evidence of the Creator’s handiwork is all around us. A week ago we shared a photo of a very tall sunflower with Brooksyne standing beside it.
Today’s photo is the archway entrance to our backyard covered with morning glories. I took the photo looking into the sun causing the photo to wash out a bit so here’s a close-up collage of our morning glories.
In recent years these flowers grow voluntarily and require little attention, yet to me are among the most beautiful summer flowers. Brooksyne, on the other hand, often sees them as a nuisance since they are very aggressive, intertwining their numerous vines around neighboring ornamentals covering up their foliage and blooms! I hear Brooksyne telling them, “Stay in your own yard and stop being a nuisance to your neighbor.” Perhaps you’ve had some people neighbors like the morning glories and you’d like to tell them the same thing!
I’ve read many of Max Lucado’s books and he remains one of my favorite writers. I recall a story many years ago when he was serving in missions in Brazil. He records the arduous journey to a remote, barely accessible location to visit a Brazilian farmer. Upon introduction Max told the old farmer he was a missionary and explained that his work was to try to get people to believe in God. The farmer exclaimed what an easy job it must be to draw people to faith in God as he gestured to the massive evidences for creation that surrounded him. The farmer expressed a sense and wisdom so lacking today in our age of unbelief.
The issues concerning origins are a source of major attack on the historic, Biblical Christian faith. Regrettably many feel they must concede in these areas in the face of apparent scientific evidence. The alternative views that are more “scientifically enlightening” compel many to look to man’s errant finite knowledge rather than the God of the Universe who has unfathomable understanding and infinite creative power.
But from Genesis to Revelation the Scriptures unwaveringly and unambiguously proclaim the work of the Creator. Today’s text simply declares in this regard, “The Creator of the ends of the earth.” Today I choose to believe in and acknowledge the work of the Creator and I declare: “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they were created and have their being” (Revelation 4:11).
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: God You have made Your wonders to be acknowledged, appreciated and acclaimed throughout the earth. Your presence is seen and felt in that which is visible and that which is hidden from the human eye. All of creation is a result of Your design and handiwork. I acknowledge You as the Creator of the universe and the Light of my life. My strength lies in You and therefore I pledge my allegiance to You, my Lord and Master. Amen.
“Statement Of Faith” Video Legacy Five
“Answers In Genesis” Excellent resource for studies on creation.
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“Filled With Violence”
July 23, 2012
Last Friday I shared a photo of a loaded hay wagon. On the way to a company Friday morning we came across this interesting sight of a Mennonite farmer transporting some hay. He is entering a major intersection on US Highway 322 though this view makes it look like he’s on some back road with little traffic. I wonder if he is wearing a seatbelt?
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“Filled With Violence”
The recent rains have rejuvenated our plants and Brooksyne’s flowers are blooming heartily with the foliage far more vibrant than before the rains. We’re praying for other regions of our land that are in desperate need of the rains we appreciated last week. This morning as we walked through the front and back yard we enjoyed the quiet we experience in the country, apart from nature sounds, which we find pleasurable.
What a contrast to the experience of so many. Late last week we were again reminded of the violence that fills our world. As we departed early Friday morning for our chaplain visits we first heard the reports of the shootings in Colorado. Due to the scale and nature of the attack it has been especially newsworthy but in reality such acts of violence happen daily and are most certainly increasing.
In today’s Biblical teaching and analysis I want to make clear our sympathy for all affected. We are hearing plenty concerning this as well as all kinds of talking heads about the matter. I want to seek to hear the Word of the Lord above all.
The daily verse describes conditions prior to the Great Flood from God’s perspective. The Fall had disastrous results on the peaceful world God had created. Violence is first recorded in the murder of Abel by his own brother Cain. It increased in the pre-flood era to a point we have described in the daily text “and the earth was filled with violence.”
Evil and violence in one form or another have been a part of the human experience all through history and is recorded both in the Bible and in the secular historical record. However there are times of increased evil and violence. Matthew 24:12 states that there will be an “increase of wickedness” characterizing the last days.
Our second daily text is from an eschatological (end times) context. Jesus said, “And just as it happened in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man.” The main focus of this teaching is how we need to be ready in that there would be a sense of normalcy right up to the time of the Lord’s return, “People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.” However I also find the verse intriguing as the original hearers and good Bible students would also associate the days of Noah with violence.
So what do we want to share apart from the instructive material above that may be encouraging to followers of Christ today? These times can cause despair and realistically as mankind continues to and increasingly raises a defiant fist to God we see conditions similar to those at the time of Noah when “the earth was corrupt in God’s sight and the earth was filled with violence.”
Our Lord forewarns His listeners with this instruction: “Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” In the midst of increasing violence we are reminded that the kingdom of God is near. The day is short so let us be diligent in winning as many as we can for His kingdom.
Be encouraged today!
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, we consider Jesus’ solemn warning that “due to the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved”. We want to be diligent to make our calling and election sure so that no enemy or deceiver shall ever prevail against us, causing our hearts to harden toward that which we learn through the Scriptures. Though troubles assail us daily our hearts are not weighed down when we cast all our daily cares upon You who cares for us. We are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus who loves us unconditionally and gave His all for us completely. It is in His name that we pray. Amen.
Prayer for Aurora victims: Father, the horrendous act of terror and slaughter that took place in Aurora, Colorado reminds us that we live in an ever darkening world that is choosing evil over good, the prince of darkness over the Prince of Peace. We pray for the families who lost their loved ones in the massacre shooting and for those recovering from wounds inflicted as well as the emotional terror they were subjected to. Father of Compassion, only You can turn evil to good, so we pray that from this evil tragedy people’s hearts will be turned to You where they can find comfort, peace, healing and above all salvation that comes through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
An additional thought on today’s topic: As I age I am increasingly oblivious to popular culture and was not even aware that a new Batman movie was out, which makes me a “dinosaur” to some. (My only days of Batman were my childhood years when it was a series on TV and even at that time I don’t recall watching it much.)
When I first heard the reports of the shooting I thought it peculiar that moviegoers would be in a theater at midnight but I guess this is not unusual for new movies. My pastor did some research on the movie and I am astounded at the degree of violence that people find “entertaining”, although I suppose making a connection between the violence that fills the entertainment world and that which fills the real world will draw a snooty “there’s no relationship whatsoever” from many in the world, including those who are supposedly experts in human behavior. Nevertheless I will unabashedly make that connection.
For those who may be interested here is a review of the movie. Caution: The description of violent content is obscene and should disturb readers.
In May we shared a message about a large truck that got stuck in a covered bridge here in Lancaster County. This is the method they’re using to try to protect the bridges.
Last night we went to a concert in Lebanon PA along with our pastor John Keefer and his wife Faithe to hear the gospel group “Legacy Five” with about 3,000 other people at an outdoor amphitheater. It was a beautiful evening and we had a great time. Here is some of the music we enjoyed last night all by Legacy Five unless noted otherwise.
“I’ve Been Changed” Video Amen, our testimony as well!
“For What Earthly Reason” Video The Cathedrals (I was unable to locate a good Legacy Five video of this.)
“We Shall See Jesus” Video A power-filled song about Christ’s return. This one song in the concert prompted all attending to stand to their feet in praise to God, for He is coming soon!!
“Ask Me Why” Video A great song answering the four W’s (who, what, when, and where) of the Christian faith.
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“A Lesson From Delilah Road”
July 20, 2012
A beautiful sight in rural Lancaster County is a loaded hay wagon!
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“A Lesson From Delilah Road”
I just read the inspiring story of a businessman who took a bold, principled stand against the grain of political correctness and confusion abounding in our land. When criticized rather than backing down from his convictions or capitulating he merely stated, “Guilty as charged.”
Wednesday, on the way to the shore, we passed a road sign in New Jersey that caught our attention and prompted some good natured teasing in our van. Delilah Road is a most unusual name and I can’t help but wonder if it was named after a real person or even the Delilah written about in the Bible. I teased my friend Jesse and said, “We must not go down Delilah Road.” (The ladies amened that in the second row!)
It’s interesting that we saw the sign as we were headed in the direction of Atlantic City just before we got on the Garden State Parkway and down the shore about ten miles to Ocean City, which is very different than Atlantic City!
Delilah was the temptress who beguiled Samson. (See Judges 16).
Today let us consider two famous Bible characters, both who had great potential. The first person, Samson, had faltering faith and is more famous for his weaknesses than his strengths. The second person, Daniel, is one of the sterling characters of the Bible who consistently served God in his worship and lifestyle as characterized in the phrase from the daily text, “your God, whom you constantly serve.”
This is a remarkable testimony from the lips of an observant secular king! Daniel had spent his entire adult life in the service of a series of secular kings and had acted with absolute integrity. His enemies were unable to bring a charge of any dereliction of duties for “they could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent” (6:4). They finally found a way to trap him in regard to his religious convictions yet he faithfully stood the test. He faced a hungry den of lions rather than compromise his lifelong, steadfast walk with God.
Today I want to especially take note of the phrase, “your God, whom you constantly serve.” Daniel had been faithful to the king in regard to his employment. But the king noticed something additional. Daniel had demonstrated his faith in God with continual service. This was toward the end of Daniel’s long life, after being removed from his homeland during the Babylonian exile and his conscription into service, first for King Nebuchadnezzar and his son Belshazzar of Babylon, and at the changing of the kingdom, under Darius, king of Persia. His early resolve not to defile himself with the king’s food established a pattern of lifelong, uncompromising obedience to God’s commands (1:8).
What do those around you observe in your life? Are you steadfast in your walk? Is your testimony consistent with your lifestyle or are you like a chameleon trying to blend into every setting. By the grace of God and with a resolute heart we will be faithful to His cause even when we’re in the minority. After all it’s been that way throughout the generations, so why do we expect it to be different for us today? In agreement with the Psalmist I pray in earnest, “Oh that my ways may be established to keep Your statutes!” (119:5). Will you join me?
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, though there are many ups and downs, highs and lows one thing we hope others observe about our life is that we are continually serving our Lord and Savior no matter what. May we never sell out to appease others or due to fear regarding the consequences of our public stand for You. More important than what is spoken about us on this side are the words we long to hear You say in the hereafter, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joys of heaven…” How we look forward to that future blessed event, through the mercy of Jesus our Lord in whose name we pray. Amen.
And most certainly the farmer’s hard-working wife.
“Statement Of Faith” Video
“Monuments” Video
“Ask Me Why” Video
“I Stand Redeemed” Video
“Heroes Of The Faith” Video
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“Tossed Here And There By Waves”
July 19, 2012
Ocean City NJ has a long (2.5 mile) and wide boardwalk with beautiful, well-maintained flower pots all along the ocean side. While others in our party were swimming we walked the boardwalk! Of all ocean cities we have visited from Maine to Florida and the US west coast we especially like Ocean City’s family atmosphere and its beautiful setting.
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“Tossed Here And There By Waves”
Yesterday we took our Amish friends, Jesse and Anna Ruth along with their five children and niece, to the shore in Ocean City, New Jersey. Since their personal mode of transportation is a horse and buggy they hire others to take them on longer trips or, as in our case, “English” friends join with them and take a trip together (i.e. we didn’t charge them).
Jesse arranged for me to pick up a rented 15 passenger van before we proceeded to pick up his family very early on Wednesday morning. We got home after midnight after dropping off some very tired kids and adults (though the children slept most of the way home, which made it a quick trip for them).
Several years ago we took the Lapp family to the shore but they’ve grown in age and number since then. Eli, two at the time, studied the vast ocean by turning his head as far as he could from the north shore to the south shore. He then took in a deep breath and flashed a big approving smile to his parents. They took him out into the water and each time they’d head for shore he’d cry, “Take me back to the big pond!” (He was accustomed to seeing the small pond on his farm.)
Those who have the opportunity to go out in the ocean know what it is like to be “tossed here and there by waves.” Ester learned this a couple weeks ago when she finally mustered the courage to withstand the big waves. She stands at only 5′ tall and clung to me the whole time. Try as I might to get my feet planted firmly in the sand bottom each ripping wave threw me off balance. Waves will toss anyone or anything in its path regardless of size!
When I read the daily text I wonder if Paul had ever taken children to the shore, presumably beside the Mediterranean Sea. He uses the observation to illustrate spiritual instability that results from not standing firm in our faith. The text describes the result of failure to be built up in the Body of Christ. In this instability we are like “children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine.”
Tossed by waves means to surge, to be tossed in billows or the waves. Metaphorically, it means to be agitated mentally like the waves in a stormy sea. (To be disturbed or thrown in confusion.) It describes one of unstable opinion who fluctuates or frequently changes the way he or she thinks or believes depending on the latest fad teaching. Picture a small sail boat being blown in one direction and then another by the wind that keeps changing direction.
Today, let us implement the God-ordained means to stability and health in our spiritual lives. Through our unwavering commitment to read God’s Word and the practice of other spiritual disciplines the character of Christ is developed in us as we are rooted and grounded in Him who is the Head, which results in spiritual stability.
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, we’re reminded by the words of Paul that we are to remain firm when the deluge of deceitful tactics from the enemy comes against us – through the media, books, false prophets and even well-meaning but confused individuals. Your Word is the stabilizing and authoritative manual for all that we need for life and godliness. You promise to bring maturity into our Christian walk as we firmly plant ourselves into the solid teaching of Your Holy Word. We apply Your teaching so that we will attain to the fullness of Your Son, Jesus Christ, the chief cornerstone. Help us to be wise, studied, and firmly planted in Christ so that we will not be like children tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
It was very hot yesterday (over 100) but our friends stayed on the beach from late morning till after 5:00 with lots of water and sunscreen which kept them hydrated and not burning. The kids had a great time as we expected.
We visited with Ed and Gladys Berkey. Ed was my District Superintendent when I pastored in New England before he retired and moved to Ocean City. He was an early encourager of our web ministry about 15 years ago. He made an interesting observation about yesterday’s message, “Jesus Is The Answer”. He pastored a church in Huntingdon PA with the message “Christ Is The Answer” painted on the building. The church later constructed a new building and sold the original one to a labor union. As the church building was being remodeled for its present owners Pastor Berkey heard that the workers were very uncomfortable painting over the words, “Christ is the Answer.”
We’ve been acquainted with Bill and Pat Preston for about five years now. Bill is a college track coach (just retired) and Pat is very active in Christian Women’s Connection. We enjoyed a very nice lunch with them as we visited together. We stepped outside the restaurant to get this photo, but my camera didn’t cooperate, I suppose due to the haze, humidity and very bright sunshine!
We joined Jim and Dorothy Schmidt with the full crew after a day at the ocean. Their son, Scott and his wife, Lori, joined us later. We met Jim over ten years ago when we were promoting Daily Encouragement at a conference in Boston and he was in a display booth across from us representing SEND Int’l (a mission agency). We enjoyed a very nice meal before we headed back for our long trip home.
The van Jesse rented which we filled with 12 passengers and a lots of beach stuff! These vans are a common sight in Lancaster County and they’re commonly rented for “hauling the Amish” as they refer to it around here.
And all had a good time! Young Eli sleeping on Holly in the back seat. Holly is a friend of Ester’s from church.
Late last night we drove through Philadelphia and viewed “Boat House Row” along the Schuylkill River.
“Boundless Love” Video
“That’s What Grace Is For” Video
“Champion Of Love” Video
“Farther Along” Video
Ministry Update (Revised 5/12)
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
“Jesus is the Answer!”
July 18, 2012
We enjoy seeing the discarded repurposed. This old wood-framed window has been painted with daisies.
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“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Last week I was visiting a company when a man invited me into his office and asked me to have a seat. I could tell there was something on his heart. He began our conversation by saying, “Now I may not be the smartest man but I’m not the dumbest either.” He went on to tell me that he had seen a sign in rural Lancaster County that stated, “Jesus Is The Answer” and admitted that he had no idea what that meant. “Answer to what?”
That gave me an opportunity to explain what I thought the owner of the sign was seeking to communicate, that Jesus is the answer to mankind’s problems. Many of us “old-timers” will recall a popular song from the 1970′s that had a line, “Jesus is the answer for the world today”. Can you imagine if people would really commit themselves to Jesus Christ and live according to His will? That would be the answer to this world’s problems as well as the answer to the scores of individual problems we all face.
That’s been the message of our ministry since we married in 1976. We want to share the call of our Lord Jesus to this fallen world: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Jesus is calling us to come unto Him. He is the true and only source of rest, of peace, of love and of acceptance. He loves you this day and every day. However you’re seeking to fill that void, turn to Him. He continues to beckon the human race, “Come unto Me.” Jesus ever remains the Answer!
Above Him there’s no other, Jesus is the way.
Jesus is the answer, for the world today.
Above Him there’s no other, Jesus is the way.If you have some questions, in the corners of your mind.
Traces of discouragement, and peace you cannot find.
Reflections of your past, seem to face you ev’ryday.
But this one thing I do know, Jesus is the way.
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, You provide the answers to life’s questions about everything that concerns us. In answer to life’s greatest question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” You sent Your Son to be our Savior who would die for our sins so that we might be forgiven and receive an abundant life here on earth and an eternal life in heaven. We are learning to trust in You with all our hearts and not rely on our own understanding. We want to acknowledge You in all areas of our life so that we will seek You above all and the counsel in Your Holy Word for the answers to life’s questions. Jesus truly is the answer for the world today, for He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Amen.
Today we are taking our Amish friends to the shore in Ocean City, New Jersey and will leave very early and return later this evening. (If you received this message as an email at 9:30 it is because I scheduled it very early this morning!)
The children are very excited about our trip and it looks like we will have a sunny, hot day. We also expect to see several long-time friends who live in that area including Ed Berkey, my former District Superintendent from New England, and his wife Gladys.
Today we show you a photo from the dairy farm that we found amusing. When it’s hard to get down into the crevices of a feeding bucket the next best thing is to wear it for awhile till you get every last possible grain! We looked on for what seemed a very long time as this calf was walking around with a bucket feeding herself.
“Jesus Is Still The Answer” Video Collingsworth Family
“Jesus Is Still The Answer” Video Heritage Singers
“Follow Me” Video Kelly Willard
Note about music used on Daily Encouragement Net: For many years now we have suggested music that goes along with our daily message. We usually use links to Youtube video that others post. Yesterday a thoughtful reader whom I know personally and respect a great deal made a comment regarding a video his wife had watched and then read the comments which included offensive words. I looked at the Youtube comments to the beautiful spiritual song and also found the language used in these comments disgusting.
Several observations in regard to comments:
1) People get into religious spats unrelated to the song. For instance on one of the songs used today a discussion completely unrelated to the song develops regarding the musician wearing jewelry!
2) Some anti-religious people may lurk just to cause trouble on a popular video knowing their comments will be read by others.
3) And most sadly in our view is that there has been a coarsening during our lifetime among those who profess to be Christians including uses of language most believers find offensive.
Of course neither the musician nor the person posting to youtube (and certainly not us) has anything to do with this, although comments can be disabled or at least moderated, which is what I would recommend. But the person posting the video has to do this.
When I choose music I don’t necessarily read the comments (in fact I usually don’t). Sometimes there can be many pages and I may use several songs a day so this would be very time consuming. In addition, comments may be added after I make a link to a video!
Are our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support of its readers and podcast listeners. See here for more information on supporting this ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
