‭Matthew 9:27-29

[27] When Jesus departed from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out and saying, “Son of David, have mercy on us!” [28] And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” [29] Then He touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith let it be to you.”  

Do you believe in miracles? Maybe you've experienced one or several in your life, or maybe not at all. Miracles are one tool God uses to bless His people. They come in all forms, varying in times, and even unexpected. 

In today's passage we read about the miracle giving sight to blind men. They knew exactly who could do it, as Jesus asked about their faith in His ability to perform a miracle. Their sight was restored and their faith was reinforced in Jesus. 

Maybe you need a miracle in your life. Health, relationship, family, and other issues can make you feel hopeless. Have faith in the One who can do all things, through Jesus Christ, you can receive His power of healing by faith. Call out to Him today and discover the healing miracles He still performs today! God bless!! 

 ‭Matthew 7:13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 

With all the various social media platforms, popular videos are easily shared and viewed by many. On occasion, a person will become famous for a video they made and it will go “viral”, where millions will view it and share it with their friends. You could easily say these popular videos are a reflection of today's society. 

Sadly, there is one new video that surfaced involving a drunk girl sharing her thoughts on oral sex and it's currently being viewed and shared all over social media. I was somewhat shocked by it's content and people’s interest in this R rated brief video clip. What has our world come too and how much further will it degrade? 

Jesus predicted the path of many people, journeying down the wide path of destruction, while very few find their way into Heaven. If you are a child of God, you should be more interested in what God has to say and take an interest in absorbing His truths vs. the ways of the world. I'm right there with you! As I get older, social media and other avenues to receive the world's entertainment has become sickening and I'm ready to hang it up. 

‭Matthew 7:14 Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. 

A relationship with God has to involve shielding yourself from the toxic ways of the world and transforming your mind after the heart of Jesus Christ. That can only be accomplished by studying His word and staying in constant communication with your heavenly Father. The world can be quite entertaining, but why waste your time and memory storage on the very things God calls an abomination. 

But first seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33

 According to the Federal Reserve Bank in New York, at the end of 2023, Americans had over 1 trillion dollars of credit card debt. That’s a lot of money and interest payments….someone is getting rich off other people’s debt! The reality is things are expensive these days and inflation continues to be very high, making people use credit to pay for things, even necessities. Years ago, I fell for this trap and it’s not easy to get out of debt once it piles up. What’s an alterative to buying on credit?

 Therefore do not worry, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?” For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. Matthew 6:31-32

 Jesus devoted some of His ministry time telling people not to worry. On numerous occasions He put the disciple’s faith to the test by allowing several storms to rock their boat to see how they’d handle the situation…and they worried; Jesus calmed the storms before their very eyes. God often tests His followers to see which direction they’ll turn to find help….either in Him or by earthly means (credit card debt, working extra long hours away from family, or by illegal gain). As your heavenly father states above, He knows your needs and is willing to provide if only you will seek Him out first.

 A relationship with Jesus Christ is founded on faith and if you are a true believer, you’ll put your faith to the test by trusting that God will provide for what’s needed. Sometimes we believe we need more than the necessities, and that’s ok as long as the resources are available. But when the bank account is lean, your wants must be lean as well. When you trust God with your needs, He will provide. Trust me, I lived on $20 for an entire week and never once went hungry. God will bless you too when you seek Him, by faith, to provide and not burden yourself with credit card debt or other means (which enslave you). Have faith in God that He will provide and leave the rest up to Him. God bless!  

 

 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12

 Ever had a good idea that eventually turned out to not be a good idea after all? Maybe it was a business venture that went belly up, a relationship that appeared perfect ended in disaster, a job that seemed to be the perfect fit ended up not fulfilling all your expectations. The list is endless and when those ideas turn bad, it can leave you bankrupt, broken hearted, defeated, and discouraged. We as humans want everything to be just right and are quick to jump in to what appears perfect, but sooner or later all of it comes crashing down. How can you avoid such disasters?

 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

 If you are a child of God, you have available to you the perfect plan for your life, one created and mapped out by the creator of this universe. Sadly, we too often venture out, with our own mindset, and pursue things, careers, relationships, and whatever else without confiding in God. His perfect plan for your life, and mine, is available when we search out His will. This takes time for Him to reveal as He tries your patience, trusting that during that “waiting period” you will draw closer to Him, which makes it easier to hear His voice of reasoning and direction. When you move too quickly, you distance yourself from hearing Him and disaster awaits those who get off the path God intended.

 The next time you have a bright idea, check it out with God first before initiating. Make sure you allow enough time for His answer so you can be assured it’s a part of His plan to give you a future and a hope! God bless!

 

Ephesians 4:26 “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath.

Ever have a tiff with someone? Maybe they said something that offended you or hurt you or someone you love. Once the negative incident occurs, that person becomes your target, your outlet for any anger or frustration that you are experiencing. 

As a result, you don't have positive thoughts towards them; when you see them happy the anger stirs, when you see them hurting you smile inside and cast judgment. If you are a child of God and this defines you, you have an internal problem, a heart problem that needs to be addressed. 

‭Matthew 5:43-44 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor  and hate your enemy.’  [44] But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.

Jesus challenged people to do the opposite of human nature. Loving and praying for that target in your life opens your heart for God to mend it and restore the relationship you once had with that person. You might not have a desire to refriend them, but it's no excuse not to give them the same love, grace, and mercy shown you by Jesus Christ. 

Who's your target? I'm sure one person comes to mind. Begin praying for them and don't hold back from opportunities to do good to them. God will bless you and work His healing hand inside your heart to love others as He's called you to do. 

 ‭Isaiah 64:8 But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand.

Today I have plans to attend the funeral of a man who devoted his life to serving others. One project he invested his time in was the work we did at my place of employment to help others be safe around water and boating. Together, we implemented many ideas that worked well to educate others and hopefully saved some from the danger of drowning. 

As I pondered my workings with him and looking back over a career of 30 plus years, I can easily see the hand of God. He is always looking for people who are pliable in His hands, so He can take a life, motivated to serve, and make something special happen. I could easily take credit for the many successful things I've accomplished in my career, but that wouldn't be the whole truth. I give God all the praise for His wonderful workings in my life, past, present, and future. 

When you open your heart to the hand of God, He does things beyond understanding, I call them little miracles. Looking back, you'll see His fingerprint on every accomplishment and you'll want to  give thanks to the One who writes the script for every day of your life. Trust Him in everything you do, and experience the blessings of His little miracles in your life. God bless. 

 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. Psalm 139:16

 On Friday, June 15, 2024 my birth mother passed away, which was the same day as my adopted mother’s birthday. God has a unique way of showing us His handiwork through the little miracles He performs outside our understanding. And one extra, both my birth mother and adopted mother shared the same middle name. All of this brings a comforting peace to my heart, and the warm thought that both of them are communing in Heaven.

 Although I never had the opportunity to meet her, the adoption agency was provided me some history of how I came to be. At one time, my birth mother was married to a man for 7 years and was not able to get pregnant. The doctor told her she would never be able to conceive. After a troubling marriage, she divorced this man. A few years later she met my birthfather and fell in love with him. At one point in their relationship they talked about getting married. Not worried they could get pregnant, they were intimately involved, and to their surprise, she became pregnant (despite what the doctor had told her). Upon hearing the news of the pregnancy, my birthfather ended the relationship, leaving her to carry me alone with the help of her parents. In the fifth month of pregnancy, she decided to give me up for adoption and contacted the agency who would handle the adoption proceedings.

 Just a little over 100 miles away, lived my adopted parents, who were unable to have children and wanted to raise a family. They reached out to the adoption agency and began the long process of investigations to ensure they’d be a suitable fit to raise a child. In the final stages of the process, my adopted dad received a draft notice to join the military, so they had to put the adoption on hold until he came back from serving. Unbeknown to them, I arrived into this world, and the adoption agency notified them to come pick me up. At that time if you had a child, you were exempt from the draft, which ultimately saved my adopted dad from possible death in the war.

 Since their plans were initially put on hold, they didn’t have anything in the house for a baby. They called my God-parents, who told them to go pick me up, and while gone they’d buy some necessities to get them by. My grandparents went with my parents to pick me up, and according to the adoption agency, “The Barr’s seemed so happy, that they could hardly believe what was happening”.

 Many of you know I was raised on a farm in midwestern Illinois and had an adopted sister (18 months younger). I had an amazing upbringing by two parents who did their very best to provide for my every need. I am so grateful for their love and the home they provided.

 There are other little “miracles” that accompanied my life that has made me who I am today. God had a plan for me, even when I was not planned. I hope my story encourages you to look for those little miracles that happen in your life, that are a part of your life’s story. God bless!

Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established. Proverbs 4:26

 In retirement, I’ve made it a habit of devoting a great amount of time studying God’s word and reading devotions that help keep me spiritually on track. Although I’ve done devotions for many many years, this is a season of my life where I have a lot of free time to dig deep. And the more I study, the more I realize just how far off track I am at times with my beliefs, attitudes, and my past failures (sins) have made me recognize the importance of repentance and God’s purpose of sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to make payment for my transgressions. I’ve found myself completely humbled, asking for His forgiveness and strength to do what is right.

 Proverbs 4:26 encourages believers to be spiritually alert and to consider your ways…your thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and actions. If off course; come to repentance and redirect your steps in Godly wisdom and spiritual alertness. I can honestly say, I’ve not always been that way and it’s been evident by my transgressions. How do we make Godly living a priority in our lives?

 Love the Lord with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37

 What has become clear to me is my lack of love for the Lord. Matthew 22:37 comes straight from the mouth of Jesus Christ, that we are to love the Lord with every ounce of our being. When you love someone deeply, you are devoted to them and everything you do focusses around their existence in your life. If only I could go back in time and redo some things, correct the many wrongs I’ve done and reset my moral compass along the way. Thankfully, God’s love has been greater than mine and His forgiveness has always kept me in His graces as He’s covered me with protection, even when I was living in enemy territory.

 How’s your spiritual life? Have you truly taken time to evaluate the direction you are headed? Have you measured your attitudes, beliefs, and actions against God’s word? Let Matthew 22:27 be the hallmark of your faith and every ounce of your being. God will bless you with His presence by providing wisdom, spiritual discernment, and convict when you are headed in the wrong direction.  A lifetime of Godly living and good, moral decisions, will align you for the words of God, “well done my good and faithful servant”.

 Having then the gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us. Romans 12:6

 Have you ever put together a jigsaw puzzle? If so, you know that many pieces look the same, but in actuality only 1 fits each specific location in the puzzle. What can be frustrating is to come to its completion, only to find one of the pieces somehow missing. It can literally make you want to give up on putting together puzzles.

 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function. Romans 12:4

 There is another puzzle that involves your life and the life of others. God gives each of us specific talents and abilities. Those gifts (as we’ll call them) are what makes you and I unique. Everything about us varies, even our fingerprints and DNA differ. As a child of God, you are expected to put your gifts to work for the Lord. As our different gifts come together as a unified body, we all work towards the same goal. Without one of us, we leave a void in Christ’s work, and that can be frustrating for others who rely on you to do your part.

 Have you identified your gifts? If so, are you putting them to good use for the Kingdom of God? God blesses your obedience and if you are truly committed to serving Him, your gifts will be multiplied many times over and followed by God’s blessings. Satan will do all he can to discourage you from working for God, but don’t let his lies dimmish the desires of your heart to serve God. You are important to the Kingdom work and without you, there will be a noticeable void in God’s plan to reach the lost.

 

 Therefore with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. Isaiah 12:3

 As we age, certain benefits or privileges are available to us, such as turning 16 allows us to drive, 18 is considered an “adult”, at age 26 your vehicle insurance is lowered (if you have a good driving record)….and the list goes on. Last year I joined AARP. Although it’s normally associated with older people, just about any aged person can join. With its membership come a whole host of benefits, discounts, and a monthly magazine full of insightful wisdom to help you navigate life after “50”. Just the other day I was notified that my one-year membership came to a close and looking back I determined that I never once used any of its discounts. What a waste, as my wife and I have taken several trips that I could have saved some money.

 Today’s passage encourages Christians to not only relish in the joy of salvation immediately following conversion, but to live a lifetime full of its benefits and freedoms. Sadly, many people have a one and done salvation experience and don’t ever tap the resources available to them through Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit. Every day is a struggle to stay committed to Jesus, and when bad things happen, joy is diminished, replaced by anxiety and fear.

 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

 How’s your salvation experience? Are you filling your spirit full of joy from the well of salvation on a daily basis? Hebrews 4:16 says we can come to the throne of grace anytime, any day, to receive what’s needed to keep the joy alive. I’m reminded of the song “The Well” by Casting Crowns. I’m going to share the lyrics below. Take a moment to read it and then ask God to help you live out each day in His Holy presence so you can enjoy the benefits of His saving grace and mercy. God bless!

 

 I have what you need
But you keep on searchin'
I've done all the work
But you keep on workin'
When you're runnin' on empty
And you can't find the remedy
Just come to the well
You can spend your whole life
Chasin' what's missing
But that empty inside
It just ain't gonna listen

When nothing can satisfy
And the world leaves you high and dry
Just come to the well

And all who thirst will thirst no more
And all who search will find what their souls long for
The world will try, but it can never fill
So leave it all behind, and come to the well

So bring me your heart
No matter how broken
Just come as you are
When your last prayer is spoken
Just rest in my arms a while
You'll feel the change my child
When you come to the well

And all who thirst will thirst no more
And all who search will find what their souls long for
The world will try, but it can never fill,
So leave it all behind, and come to the well, yeah

Leave it all behind
The world will try, but it can never fill, leave it all behind

And now that you're full
Of love beyond measure
Your joy's gonna flow
Like a stream in the desert
Soon all the world will see that living water is found in me
Cuz you came to the well, yeah

And all who thirst will thirst no more
And all who search will find what their souls long for
The world will try, but it can never fill
So leave it all behind, and come to the well
Leave it all behind, and come to the well

Leave it all behind
Leave it all behind
Leave it all behind
Leave it all behind

 Casting Crowns - The Well (w/ Lyrics) (youtube.com)

 ‭Ezekiel 12:2 “Son of man, you dwell in the midst of a rebellious house, which has eyes to see but does not see, and ears to hear but does not hear; for they are a rebellious house.

From the beginning of time with Adam and Eve, til this very moment, we as Children of God live amongst the rebellious. People refuse to accept the truth of God or sadly are unaware of their doomed state. Jesus said it clearly, the way to eternal destruction is wide and many go in that direction, the way of truth is narrow and few find it. 

I believe Jesus is sitting on the edge of His heavenly seat, ready to call His faithful home. Until the trumpet sounds, we must tell others about the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ and the way to the Father in Heaven. 

My wife and I attended a festival this past weekend, with thousands of people in attendance. The whole time I wondered how many of these souls are heaven bound. It brought tears to my eyes knowing many good and loving people won't go. We need to tell them the truth. The harvest is ripe. Will you tell them the way? 

 ‭Matthew 8:18 And when Jesus saw great multitudes about Him, He gave a command to depart to the other side. 

As Jesus' popularity grew, crowds began to follow Him, to witness the miracles performed and receive words of wisdom. I can't imagine how large those crowds became, but we know in several cases, thousands of people surrounded Him. 

Preceding today's verse, Jesus performed a number of miracles, which probably was the reason for the large gathering. What did Jesus do? He departed for the other side of the lake. I don't blame Him. I get around too many people and I'm ready to find a way to exit. I don't think He left bc the crowds overwhelmed Him, but He knew others needed Him on the other side of that lake and He needed a moment of reprieve. 

Maybe you are in a similar situation. You get things accomplished and many people lean on you for help. It can be personally draining, both emotionally and physically. Sometimes it's ok to find an exit so you can refresh yourself. Believe me, I've been there, and a little break never hurts….and the needines of others will be there waiting when you clock back into reality. 

Like Jesus, take some time for you. If you're drained, people won't have your best. Your reputation will precede you, and once back, you can continue to do great things with the talents and abilities God has given you. . 

 ‭James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

In your life, the direction you will go, will be based on the decisions you make. Some will be easy and with very little impact beyond that moment, other decisions will go with you throughout your lifetime. It's those big and impactful decisions that keep you up at night, wondering what to do, which way is right, will this succeed or be a failure, will this help or hurt me? How can you ensure each decision is right? 

Pray!!! It might sound cliche, but praying for God's wisdom and patiently waiting for His answer will help you make some of the most impactful decisions that will shape your life in: relationships, career, finances, and many other choices. 

 ‭Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

The hardest part of this process is the wait. Waiting on God is like standing in a long line, waiting to be served your favorite food. Yeah, there are other food trucks with shorter lines, but you know this one is the best (and it's evident by all the people standing ahead of you). Your stomach says settle for something less, you don't have time or patience to wait….there are a million excuses to make a quick decision, and if you do, each bite of that food you settled for won't be pleasing. 

What decision are you facing, knowing it's a big one? Friend, make time to earnestly pray to God, and don't stop (or make a move) until you have His answer. That waiting time just might be Him working behind the scenes to provide you the best dish of blessings you've ever received. God bless. 

 ‭Romans 14:10 For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 

If you watch much news, you know that powerful men are currently facing the courts, judging their actions, and public opinion varies by political party. No one is above the law, even a former President or the President’s son. 

There's another court everyone will face one day, standing before God to give account for how we lived. Are you guilty? The Bible says we are all guilty of sin and deserve Hell. No one is above God's judgment, and regardless of what you think, you'll never do enough good to gain entrance to Heaven. 

Fortunately, Jesus Christ, God's Son, lived a perfect sinless life on planet earth and sacrificed His life so you can be found not guilty. All you have to do is accept God's free gift of Salvation by acknowledging sin, believe that Jesus made payment for your sins, and live each day for Him. It's not a complicated thing, God made it was easy for us. Surrender your will to Him and find yourself postured for the day you meet the ultimate Judge. 

  ‭I John 2:24 Therefore let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father.

Over the past week I worked at our church’s summer camp for kids. It reminded me of the years I attended church camp: learning about God, in depth study, praise and worship, and most importantly it's where I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. 

Today's verse recalled the excitement of my newly formed relationship with Jesus Christ. At the beginning I had a great desire to study God's word and understand this new bond I had with the creator of the universe. Over time that enthusiasm waned and I studied less. The effects of that period in time stunted my spiritual growth and it showed iny behavior, thoughts, and indulgence in worldly pursuits. 

The good news is I eventually realized my errors and restored my relationship with Jesus. Ever since then I've grown spiritually through Bible study, prayer time, and having less desires for the things of the world. 

Maybe you have lost that first love for Christ and your enthusiasm to learn and grow has waned. Jesus is always there, ready to reignite the passion and enthusiasm for a strongly bonded relationship. Seek Him out today and find that joy, peace, and understanding you once had. You'll be glad you came back to the Savior. 

 ‭Matthew 23:26 Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.

It's Sunday morning and for most of us we will be attending church services. Some will enter the house of God in nice dress clothes, and others a bit more casual. A few will take part in the service either in the choir, offering collection, greeting, maybe even deliver the sermon. Those who serve have the appearance that they are in good standing with God out of their loyalty to serve. Does that really make them a better child of God? 

From the lips of Jesus Christ, a cup isn't clean unless the inside has been washed. It's a matter of the heart and that's exactly what Jesus used as an example for the Pharisees who thought they were religious by their outward appearance, rules and regulations followed, and their position in the church. Their hearts were not where they should have been; focused on a relationship with Jesus Christ. I truly believe that's why Jesus chose the nobodys of the day to be His disciples. 

Going to church and being a part of the church service won't save your soul from Hell. It's a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Until you get that message seed planted in your heart, all your labor will be in vain. Is your heart ready to worship God? Come thoroughly clean by loving God, repenting of sin, and living in Godly obedience.

  ‭I John 3:2 Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 

One difficult lesson I've learned in life, people are different in their thinking, actions, and words. I'm a pretty easy going person, but I have to admit there are certain people who annoy the mess out of me, making me wish they would simply go away. Unfortunately that isn't the answer and the truth is these people are God's creation, so I should love them no less than the people I enjoy being around. 

Today's passage provides hope and a brighter future. When we all come before the presence of God, we will be like Him. All the annoying traits that pain us in this earthly body will be replaced with the loving character of God. It might be difficult to see negative Nancy turn positive or that noisy and obnoxious man transform into a humble spirit, but it will happen through the power of God. Even you and I, and our annoying ways, will be transformed into perfection. I don't know about you, but that day can't come soon enough. 

Someone getting under your skin? Pray for them, and yourself, that you can develop the love, grace, and mercy of God in this life, so you'll be more easily transformed into the image and character of our loving and gracious God.