Coffee With The Lord

To succeed at some things you have to do what is counterintuitive – you have to act in a way that does not seem natural. If you are a farmer you hide seed in the ground in order to produce more… If you want to make money you invest it in order to make a profit (the temptation is to hoard it – not invest it)… If you want to win at boxing you move in close to your opponent or in the martial arts you’ve got to take advantage of your adversaries momentum toward you in order to overcome him.

As difficult as it seems, in spiritual things, we are also called upon to do what is counterintuitive… Here’s an example from my Bible reading this morning…

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2–4 ESV)

The temptation when we face a trail? To gripe and complain – to resist and resent it – to become impatient and impudent. God’s word says, “Consider it all joy!” Believe me, that’s counterintuitive! It takes faith! It takes commitment! But the results are positive… steadfastness (inner strength that comes to sustain you in your trial!) And ultimately? … Believe it or not, you become “perfect (have a developing maturity), complete, and lacking NOTHING!”

Hard to believe isn’t it? But I’ve seen it work! People I know who have faced incredible trials and tried it; instead of getting bitter – get better. They evidenced in the midst of difficulties – trials that would make most people wilt and unravel – an increasing strength of character, beauty of spirit, and radiant joy that attracts others to them and glorified God!

All I’ve got to say to all of that is this… Oh Lord, when I face a soul-shaking trial, help me do what is counterintuitive!!

Just want to express my appreciation to the ancient writer of the book of Hebrews (we are not sure who that was), for this wonderful word of blessing…

“Now may the God of peace… equip you with everything good so that you may do His will, working in you that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever, Amen!” (Hebrews 13:20-21)

In the words of a dear Christian friend… I receive it!!

And to all my friends who follow “Coffee with the Lord” I send it out to you today with all my heart and sincerest prayer! May God fulfill it in every way… and in abundance!

It’s Pastor’s Appreciation Month … it’s interesting this verse was included in one of the passages in my Bible reading this morning during “Coffee with the Lord”…

“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” (Hebrews 13:7 ESV)

As I read the verse and reflected on its challenge I just felt “nudged” to honor some great pastors I’ve had and comment on their contribution to my life…

Pastor Leon Mitchell… The kindest, most caring, godly pastor a young boy growing up could ever have … model of “pastoral care” to our family.

Pastor Kenneth Peterson… I owe the depth of my commitment in marriage to his counsel to me as a young person contemplating marriage to Sharon, who is now my wife.

Pastor Phillip Wannamacher… Never forgot a name! Successfully pastored EVERYONE in a large congregation… solid as a rock!

Pastor Earl Teeter… Truly a “man without guile” – a dear friend.

Pastor Jim Hennesy… Visionary, authentic leader, passionate Pentecostal, ready to “step out of the boat and walk on water if he hears the Lord say ‘Come!’”

Each of these important pastoral leaders (and others) have made a significant contribution to my life as a Christian. I honor them and purpose to “consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith!” I recognize they are human and have weakness and failings (as we all do). I recognize they can, at times, disappoint us… that is why I’m convinced the very next verse in Hebrews says this…

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever!”

He will never fail! His example is always a trustworthy model to follow! … He is the premiere, impeccable, perfect leader!