There is a book that I read as a child called, “Fortunately, Unfortunately,” by Michael Foreman. In the book, Mom sends Milo on an errand to return Granny’s umbrella to her. Fortunately, Milo doesn’t realize that he’s about to encounter several unfortunate setbacks with pirates, dinosaurs, and aliens. But it all turns into one amazing, fortunate adventure. We are reminded that perspective controls our attitude about our circumstances. As we approach Thanksgiving, we need to remember the words of the apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” This week, take the time to stop and reflect on your circumstances, and choose to focus on the fortunate things that are going on around us. Even when things seem bleak, God always provides windows of light that are designed to encourage us in the midst of our struggles. Life is truly an adventure, our perspective will determine our gratitude. … READ MORE

Proverbs 18:24 says, “A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.” This verse reminds me of the relationship that David and Jonathan had in the book of 1 Samuel. Jonathan knit his soul to David to the extent that he was even willing to stand by David’s side against his father, King Saul. True friendship will do that, that relationship will cause you to remain faithful to our friends even when other question their motives or actions. A friend is a person who will believe in your innocence until you admit your guilt! We need one another and are reminded that before sin entered the world, the Lord said, “It is not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). If we needed someone to be our partner before sin entered the world how much more do we need them now. Solomon Writes in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow…” I pray that God will raise up those in your life, who can be such a friend. … READ MORE

2 Timothy 4:2 reminds us that we are to proclaim the Word of God as believers. As Paul commissions us to do that, he tells us to “be ready when it is convenient and when it is not convenient.” The idea of “being ready” carries the idea of urgency, preparedness, and readiness. It could be used of a soldier who is ready to go into battle on a moment’s notice or of a guard who keeps continually alert for any threat of infiltration or attack by the enemy. Such a sense of readiness and willingness to serve the Lord at any cost and at any time not only should characterize every faithful preacher but also every faithful Christian. We are exhorted in 1 Peter 3:15 “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.” Only continual study of God’s Word, fellowship with Him in prayer, and submission to His Holy Spirit can keep alive a sense of exhilarating eagerness to preach. this proclamation must not be dictated by popular culture and propriety, by tradition, … READ MORE