Guys, It's Our Turn

Guys, It’s Our Turn

     No doubt, upon reading this, you thought about the fact that Mother’s Day has already occurred this calendar year and now it is the day for us to remember ‘good ole dad’.   True, May 11, 2025, the day set aside for remembering our mothers has come and gone. Also true, this Lord’s Day, June 15, 2025 is designated as “Father’s Day” on our calendars. We are reminded of this continually by retail establishments as each of these days (and all other “holidays”) approach. After all, they have a vested interest in everyone “remembering” every holiday and all the commerce activity that accompanies each one.
     However, the ‘turn’ of which I speak is not regarding a holiday, a festive event or a specific date on the calendar. It is the God-given responsibility of each male that has brought a child into the world. Much has been said, and rightly so, about the influence the mother has on her child and often the burden of child rearing and nurturing falls to the female parent. These are those that gave birth to the child. But we should never forget that the woman didn’t produce the child on her own, neither should she bear all the responsibility in bringing up the child in the “nurture and admonition of the Lord. ”. Do we not recall to whom Eph. 6:4 is directed?
   This “bringing up” is more than providing the roof over their head, the food on the table, and the clothes on their backs. It entails much more and takes a good part of a lifetime to do it correctly. I’m afraid that some men have often looked to nature and misapplied it regarding their young. Some seem to think and act as though their obligation ends with the producing of the child. If one closely examines nature, they can clearly see that in many species of animals, the male takes a large role in feeding, protecting and providing for their young.   God made them this way, and contrary to man, they have not deviated from God’s plan.
     Implied in the last statement, is that mankind has often strayed from the plan God had for humanity since before He created all things. So that none misunderstand, let me state it clearly. The evidence is abundant that many have departed from God’s ordained system for fatherhood, family and in many cases, even service to God Himself. This is also pointed out by the Spirit through the pen of Paul in Gal. 4:8, speaking to some who had no written Law of God before the New Testament Law was delivered and put into force. He wrote: Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.  The altar to the “UNKNOWN GOD” we read of in Acts 17:23 is another testament to this.
     When a man helps produce a child, he helps bring a soul into this world. This is an awesome responsibility as each soul will spend eternity in one of two places. One is a place of peace and joy, the other of torment and agony, and both are forever. Once the soul leaves the body, there is no opportunity for change. Therefore, while in this life the foundation must be provided for that soul early, so it can choose where it will spend eternity. If the right foundation is not placed, the “house” will fall, just as Christ described in Matt. 7:26-27. This is what bringing up our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord means, bringing them up on the foundation of the Word of God. Of course, upon becoming grown, each must make their own choices. And then, as “accountable” souls, they must also deal with the consequences of the choices they make.
   The same is true of fathers. The bringing up of children is to begin in the home.   The home is a divinely ordained institute and children become part of the home when they are born. But man’s obligation to God and family also extends beyond the home. Three times in the New Testament we find “be strong”. They are: 1Cor. 16:13, Eph. 6:10, and 2Tim. 2:1. Each of these were written to Christians. In the latter, it was written to an individual. This admonition to “be strong” is “in the Lord ”, or “in the grace that is in Christ”. One of these also says to “stand fast in the faith and quit you like men”. This applies to every aspect of the Christian’s life.
   God has placed man in the position to lead the family as well as to take the lead in service to God. This is readily apparent when the qualifications of elders in epistle to Titus, and of elders and deacons in the first epistle to Timothy are considered. It is man that is to be the earthly leadership of the body of Christ. It is the man that bears the responsibility if/when the truth is not faithfully proclaimed. It is the man’s fault if they fail or refuse to “grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ”, making themselves unqualified to serve as deacons or elders.
     If you are a man, and have obeyed the gospel, you are a Christian, a child of God. That means it’s past time to step up to your responsibility to God and to your family. Make your family stronger by leading them according to God’s Word. Guys, it’s our turn. It’s our turn to put forth every effort to make our congregation better in attendance, adherence to the Word, and a shining example for all as Jesus said in Matt. 5:16. Guys, it’s our time to “glorify our Father which is in Heaven”.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

To Whom and How Much Are You Committed?

To Whom and How Much Are You Committed?

    The question which heads this article could possibly be answered in various ways, dependent upon the context. The “to whom” part might very well be a “what”. This is the case with many as their job seems to encompass their entirety. Their whole focus seems to be the course of labor and whatever they might accomplish (materially) through having the job. Their commitment seems to be the acquisition of material goods to ensure their perceived future. Does this not remind us of a certain Bible character? It should. The parable of the “rich fool” of Luke 12:16-20 is a direct result of the warning of Jesus in (Luke 12:15). Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. 
   This rich fool lost his soul because of his misplaced commitment. So are all who fail to have the proper commitment toward God as the Lord stated in Luke 12:21 - So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.  This is not to say that we are not to have some commitment to the necessary labor required to sustain us through life. God never intended that man be lazy or slothful. In fact, upon creating man, Gen. 2:15 states that God put man into the Garden of Eden “to dress it and to keep it.” In the N.T. we find in 2Thess 3:10, the commandment: that if any would not work, neither should he eat.  Work is important, but it is not our life. Our job(s) cannot save our soul.
   Some are also quick to point out commitment to family. We know there is a place for this as the N.T. clearly teaches. 1Tim 5:8 ties in to the “work” aspect of life as the passage instructs: “But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”  Eph. 6:2 reminds one to “Honour thy father and mother”, and Eph. 6:4 instructs that one is to bring up their children “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” Are we not to be committed to family? Yes, we are. Family is very important, and this requires a serious commitment, but one’s family cannot save one’s soul.  
   In the Matthew account of the “Limited Commission” we find that Jesus taught that commitment to family, while important, could cause one to be unworthy of Him. In fact as Matt 10:37-38 clearly shows, nothing is more important than following the Lord. Jesus said: He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. ³⁸ And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. The Commitment of these apostles had been made to the Lord, and nothing was to prevent them from keeping it. The focus should be to put first things first.
   This seems to be a “principle eternal” with God. When He first gave a written Law to man, In Exo. 20:3, as He gave Moses Commandments for God’s people Israel, God said: “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” It was the first written Command and showed its great importance. There are many who have allowed their commitment to jobs, family, hobbies, or various other things to become ‘gods’ to them. However, according to Eccl. 3:1-8, God has given sufficient time to do all that “needs” to be done. In fact, per verse 13, the ability to “eat, drink, and enjoy the good of all his labor” is the “gift of God ”. Would God expect that any gift of His to mankind take a place of greater importance than God Himself? I don’t think so.  
   God also instituted marriage in Gen. 2:24, and is a gift from God to man. This is a serious commitment between a man and his wife. They pledge their love one to another and in so doing, they ‘vow’ to each other. But more importantly, they also made that vow before God. In Num. 30:2, as Moses spoke to the heads of all the tribes of Israel, he reported to them what the Lord Commanded. This would apply to all vows, including marriage. He said: If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.  Sadly, these vows are often broken over trivial issues, mis-placed commitment and so-called irreconcilable differences. The marriage commitment is a most important vow. Yet, there is a commitment that is of greater importance, because even marriage cannot save your soul.
   The greatest commitment one can make is to God in regard for their soul. One of the best passages I know on this is 2Tim. 1:12b as Paul was directed to write to his young helper. He penned: “for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.” Paul had committed his soul to God when he obeyed the gospel and vowed to remain faithful. Paul proved his fidelity to God in his dedication to God in accordance to God’s Word the rest of his life. We never have to wonder about God’s Commitment to those that love Him and keep His Word.   In Heb. 13:5b we read: “for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
   Now, ask yourself, “to Whom, and how much are you committed ”? Will you not fully submit yourself to God in obedience to His Word? One cannot be partially obedient to God and be committed to Him. One cannot be a little devoted to God and expect a reward in heaven. Examine your life against God’s Word. Then do as God Commands. Do as God requires in Rom. 12:2a. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind. Commit yourself to God with all you have by becoming a new creature (2Cor. 5:17), & remain faithful (Rev. 2:10).

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Encouragement for Humanity

Encouragement for Humanity

     We are all traversing this thing called life. Regardless of the length of time we are granted on earth, it is but a short time. We are reminded of this in Psa. 90:10. When I was young, I viewed seventy years as a long time. But in looking back nearly that long, I realize it is quite brief. The Spirit had the psalmist record the substance of our time on earth as well as the brevity of it. The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
   The suffering servant, in Job 14:1, was also guided to pen Words to warn us of the many calamities of life. Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.  This was an observation born of adversity. One needs only examine the account of Job’s life up to that point to know he had more than his share of hardships and tribulation. He had suffered the loss of his property, his children, and his health. It appeared that all that was left to him was his wife and so-called friends.   His wife, having lost her children as well, and realizing the misery that Job suffered, in her bitterness, advised him in Job 2:9 to: “curse God, and die.” Could these be considered words of encouragement?
    Enter the so-called friends of Job, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Upon hearing of Job’s great misfortune, gathered, and traveled to his location.  Upon seeing him afar off, they “lift up their eyes and wept; rent everyone his mantle and sprinkled dust upon their heads toward heaven”. On top of all this, when they arrived where Job was, Job 2:13a informs; “So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spake a word unto him:”. The reason for so doing is stated in the end of the verse - “for they saw that his grief was very great.” They observed, and rightly so, that Job had been through a great deal. Was the sadness, tearing of clothes and silence of these “friends” encouraging?
    After Job finally speaks and laments his birth in his misery, his so-called friends, in turn, desperately seek to convince Job that he had done some great evil to bring these catastrophes upon himself. As these so-called friends continually assailed him, and as he faced the myriad of difficulties thrust upon him, Job still maintained his integrity. Even as the news of tragedy, forfeiture and loss were brought upon him, Job 1:22 tells us: “In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.” The least his acquaintances and friends could have offered their brother at that point would be some words of encouragement.
   Job, in the midst of pain and misery, in Job 14:14a, presents a question that would remain unanswered for thousands of years. “If a man die, shall he live again? ” This question without an answer is most discouraging.   Imagine living life, and suffering the pains and agonies experienced in life not knowing if there is something beyond the grave. It seems that Job had a sense that there was something after death as he pointed out in the latter part of the verse. He said: “all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come.”  Of course the ‘plan of God’ for Salvation had yet to be fully revealed to mankind. It would be revealed in due time.
   In Gal. 4:4, we are told that God’s plan was being carried out. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,. God’s Son came to earth to die, be buried, and resurrected to die no more. He willingly did so to purchase the church so man could possibly have life after death. We read of this promise of God in Titus 1:2. In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;. We also know how He made this known to mankind in Titus 1:3a. But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching. He wants all to know how to become part of the ‘family of God’ so they can look forward to enjoying the blessings God had provided for those who obey Him.
    Yes, friends, there is encouragement available now. In 1Cor. 15:19 the Holy Spirit, had Paul write: “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” Through the death, burial and resurrection of Christ, all now have hope for life after this physical time on earth. The preaching of the gospel reveals this soul saving message to all humanity. In 2Cor. 6:1-2, we read some most encouraging Words. Paul was directed to write: We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. ² (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)  This means in this, the final dispensation of time, all have opportunity to hear and obey the gospel message of salvation. This is most encouraging.
   What is discouraging is the fact that many refuse God’s soul saving plan of Salvation. Man offers many ‘variations of plans’ for salvation. But can man save? Acts 4:12 clearly teaches that salvation is only available through Christ.   Eph. 1:3 shows that all spiritual blessings are in Christ. Don’t follow man-made doctrine or be falsely encouraged by it.
   God’s Salvation plan is available to you if you are of the age of accountability and of sound mind. Will you not hear God’s Word, obey it, remain faithful to God and His Word for the remainder of your life? You can, if you will, and that is the most encouraging thing of all times.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Lying to the Lord

Lying to the Lord

    Lying has been around nearly as long as man. We don’t know for sure how long Adam and Eve were in the Garden of Eden. But we are told that Satan lied to the first couple as soon as he could. In Gen. 3:4, he added the word NOT to God’s Command to make it a lie. Satan lied to deceive Eve, and in verse 6, she succumbed to the temptation. Additionally, she gave the fruit to her husband, and he also ate it. They both sinned in eating of the fruit because God had Commanded them to not touch or eat the fruit. It is worth pointing out in the New Testament, in 1Thess. 5:22, what God Commands His people today. There we read, Abstain from all appearance of evil.  Had Eve stayed away from the tree, perhaps she would have been less likely to partake of the fruit and sin.  
   From the Genesis account, we see the origin of sin and the effect it has on the lives of those who participate in it. Initially, for their sin, Adam and Eve were expelled from their earthly paradise home. They had separated themselves from God physically and spiritually by their sin. Satan lied, and in essence murdered Adam and Eve. In John 8:44, as Jesus spoke to the Jews, He said about Satan, He was a murderer from the beginning, and he is a liar, and the father of it. Lying and murder originated in the Garden of Eden and has had a negative impact on humanity ever since.
   Interestingly, when God inquired about their sin, they didn’t openly deny the sin, but they made excuse. In Gen. 3:12-13, they blamed others for their own sin. Adam tried to shift the blame to God Himself because God gave him Eve as a wife. Eve sought to lay the blame on the serpent. Years ago, I was taught something interesting about excuses. I was taught “excuses are nothing more than the skin of a reason, stuffed with a lie ”. This definition of excuses makes sense as we consider Luke 14:16-24. Jesus told the parable of the great supper. Those who were bidden and didn’t want to go made excuses. We don’t know if the “reasons” they gave were valid or not. But in making excuses, they possibly lied rather than simply saying they did not want to go to the banquet.
   In Judges chapter 16 we see from the life of Samson that withholding the truth is, in fact, a lie. Samson, a judge of Israel, made many mistakes. Delilah, a woman in the valley of Sorek whom he loved, enticed him to discover the source of his great strength. On several occasions, he told her various false ways his secret could be revealed, toying with her. We have no written record of God directing Samson to withhold the secret of his strength. But in his efforts to protect the secret of his strength, he lied several times. In verses 10 and 13, Delilah said, “thou hast mocked me, and told me lies”. These lies, and many of Samson’s actions were not sanctioned by God and his mistakes cost Samson dearly.
    Also, those who teach “man-made doctrine” are lying. In Prov. 30:5-6, this is substantiated. Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.  In 1John 4:1, Christians are warned to “try the spirits whether they be of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”. And in 2Pet. 2:1, the false teachers “privily” brought in “damnable heresies, (lies), even denying the Lord that bought them” and “bring upon themselves swift destruction.” Regrettably, all that follow their lies will suffer destruction in Hell for eternity also.
   Sadly, many have made the mistake of lying to God. In Gen.18, the Lord appeared to Abraham. There, He told Abraham that he and Sarah were to have a child in their advanced age. Sarah overheard and laughed within herself. In Gen.18:15, we read of Sarah’s denial. Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, Nay; but thou didst laugh. Perhaps she failed to realize that God sees all and knows all. The Jews of old were made aware of this from the inspired writings of the third king of Israel in Prov. 15:3. The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.  And, in Heb. 4:13, the Jewish Christians were informed of the same. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
   With knowledge of this information, why would folks continue to lie to God? Do they not realize to ‘claim’ to love God and serve Him as His Word directs, and NOT DO as God Commands is to lie to Him? 1John 2:4 tells all Christians this very thing. The Spirit had the beloved apostle write, He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.Part of keeping the Commandments of God require that we remove lying from our lives.   Among the directives given to the church at Ephesus, we find from Eph. 4:25, inspired Words that apply to all that fully obey the gospel and have become children of God. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 
   Perhaps a reminder of the demise of liars is in order. Rev. 21:8, puts liars in the same category of those we consider to be vile offenders. All folks in this list have the same punishment awaiting. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.   
   Why will you not obey the gospel today and do as 2Cor. 8:21 directs? Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. Don’t lie to the Lord or to men.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Whom Do You Serve?

Whom Do You Serve?

    Man was created with the desire to worship. This is quite evident when Gen. 4:3 is considered. After Adam and Eve bore and raised children, we find worship to God expressed.  Cain brought an offering.  From the next verse we see his younger brother Abel also worshipped.  However, a simple observance shows that one ‘form of worship’ was accepted, while the other was not. We are also told from God Himself in Gen. 4:7a what the issue was. He admonished Cain, “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door.” 
    What does it mean when God said “if thou doest well  ”?  God was not pleased with Cain’s worship.  At this point, there was no written Law of God regarding worship.  But we can conclude from what God asked Cain, that Cain had been told how to worship.  God spoke directly to man in those days.  1Sam. 15: 1-25 is another example of this.  Saul did not want to follow all of God’s Word.  Verse 22b gives us the point made in both of these accounts - Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.  God’s Word, whether oral (as at that time), or written as we now have it, must be followed if we are to serve, and please God.
     Therefore, if we today wish to serve God acceptably there are a couple of things that must be in place. The example is given us in God’s exchange with Cain.  These are: 1) Knowing what God has directed in His Word to do.  2) Doing as God Commands in His Word.  If we don’t have knowledge of God’s Word and rightly divide it, we won’t do it.  Even if we are familiar with God’s Commandments for us, if we aren’t fully committed to God, we are not likely to completely follow His Commandments.
     Then, who is it we are serving if we aren’t serving God?  According to Rom.16:18, they serve self, and in so doing, often while causing divisions and offenses, lead innocent people away from God.  For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.  To serve one’s own belly is to serve one’s self and this excludes service to God.
    When the “hearts of the simple” (the innocent and unsuspecting) are deceived, souls are at stake.  When one serves self, and does not worship God, a soul is at stake as we saw with Cain’s case.  By the same token, even if God is the object of worship but that worship is not according to God’s Word, it becomes vain worship.  We know from Matt. 15:9, that following the doctrines of men produces vain worship and results in failed service to God.  This is evidenced in Acts 17 as Paul,  in the midst of Mars’ hill, observed the superstitions of the Athenians.  In Acts 17:23 we read of an altar with the inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD.   Notice the Words the Spirit gave Paul to say, and which were recorded by Luke. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.   Ignorant worship is also not acceptably serving God.
     It should be obvious from passages such as Rom. 6:3-5 that when one participates in baptism into Christ, they participate in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. They are to die to the love and practice of sin, are buried in the watery grave of baptism, and are then raised to walk in the newness of life.  We are reminded again in Rom. 6:6 that we must put the “man of sin” to death.  This passage also tells us why we are to do this.   Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.  Even during the Mosaic dispensation, Jesus told the devil this while the devil was busy tempting the Lord.  In Luke 4:8b, Christ told the devil - for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. This means we are to yield only to God.
     God has provided examples throughout His Word of those who served and yielded to themselves rather than God.  In addition to Cain under the Patriarchal dispensation in Gen. chap. 4, we also have examples under the Mosaic system in Israel.  In Exo. Chap 32, Israel had Aaron build a golden calf.  Then, they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings.  We know they weren’t serving God, but serving their own lusts.  We have the reminder  from the inspired pen of Paul in 1Cor. 10:5-10.  God was “not well pleased   ” with them because they lusted after evil things.  They were idolaters. They “sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.”.  They participated in fornication, tempting the Lord, and murmuring.  Many were destroyed in the wilderness for their refusal to serve God and Him alone.   
     In the N. T. dispensation (the final period of time), the Spirit had Paul, in Rom. 6:16, ask the church of Christ at Rome a question.  It was: Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? In verse 17, we see that their allegiance had changed. But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 
      In every dispensation of time, Patriarchal, Mosaic, and Christian (N.T.) God has required the same thing of man that desire to serve Him.  That is Faith and obedience.  We know from Rom. 10:17, the source of faith.  Faith comes by hearing the Word of God. All that is lacking on each person’s part is obedience. The question is: Do you serve God or self?   Why will you not yield yourself to God? Read and study His Word. Obey His N.T. Law and serve Him daily, looking forward to eternity.  Can serving yourself provide a desired eternal reward in heaven? Whom do you serve? Think about it!  

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

A Christian Mother's Love

A Christian Mother’s Love

    No doubt we’ve all been reminded by recent TV commercials, sales flyers, billboards, the internet and other media, that the day set aside to honor and show our love to Mothers is here. This day is observed by over forty countries and in various ways.   Sadly, many religious organizations and their congregations often use this particular day to honor, praise and exalt mothers. Could it be that some, using a ‘special day’ to give tribute to mothers, fail to properly follow God’s Word regarding the purpose of the first day of the week?
   Upon looking up “Mother’s Day” in Google Chrome, an AI Overview has this to say about this day. “The Bible doesn't explicitly mention a specific day for celebrating Mother's Day, but it does emphasize the importance of honoring and revering mothers. It highlights the special role of mothers in God's plan and uses motherhood as an example of His love.” Yes, God created the first mother and motherhood is part of God’s plan to bring souls into this world. In Gen. 3:20 Eve was given that name because she was the mother of all living.  
   From that time until now, there have been countless mothers. It is part of the responsibility of the mother (and the father) to raise their children properly. Eph. 6:2 directs the child to “honour thy father and mother”, and Eph. 6:4 shows they are to be brought up “in the nurture and the admonition of the Lord.”. Children continue to be born, reared, and sent out into the world to make their own way. Many of these female children grow up and have children of their own and in so doing, they too become mothers.
   Oh, the power a mother has. She wields the power of influence and if used properly, her child can be molded into a rightly instructed individual who will learn to seek God early as did David per Psalm 71:5. Otherwise, the young will grow up to be “children of Belial ” (worthless, evil, wicked, and ungodly) as those of Deut. 13:13 who said: “Let us go and serve other gods, which ye have not known;”
   The influence of a mother has been recognized by many for a very long time.  Back in 1865, American poet William Ross Wallace penned a poem that has since fallen out of popularity, but one repeated line is remembered and quoted by many.   That line is: For the hand that Rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.  Notice the plea to direct the young heart to God in this poem below.

The Hand that Rocks the Cradle

Blessing on the hand of woman!
Angels guard her strength and grace;
In the cottage, palace, hovel!
O, no matter where the place!
Would that never storms assailed it:
Rainbows ever gently curled;
For the hand that rocks the cradle
Is the hand that rules the world.

Infancy’s the tender fountain;
Power may with the beauty flow,
Mothers first to guide the streamlet,
From them souls unresting grow.
Growing on for good or evil,
Sunshine streamed or darkness hurled;
For the hand that rocks the cradle
Is the hand that rules the world.

Women, how divine your mission
Here upon our natal sod;
Keep, O keep the young heart open
Always to the breath of God!
All true trophies of the ages
Are from mother love impearled;
For the hand that rocks the cradle
Is the hand that rules the world.

Blessings on the hand of women!
Fathers, sons, and daughters cry,
And the sacred song is mingled
With the worship of the sky –
Mingled where no tempest darkens,
Rainbows evermore are curled!
For the hand that rocks the cradle
Is the hand that rules the world.
                                                ---- William Ross Wallace.

    The Christian mother’s love is exemplified by the faith of the mother and grandmother of Timothy in 2Tim. 1:5 in that they had faith in God which was passed down to their young charge. 2Tim. 3:15 is evidence of this. Mothers are to love their children. The Christian mother is aware of the most precious possession of her children, their soul.   She shows her love for God first, by teaching her children of God’s love through His Word.   A Christian mother’s love is shown as she tries to prepare her children for eternity.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Gifts From God

Gifts From God

    Who doesn’t enjoy receiving gifts? As children, we looked forward to birthdays and other special occasions when gifts or presents (plus cake) were to be given to us. Even adults, whether they admit it or not, relish the idea of gifts from loved ones. Holiday shopping depends upon the giving and receiving of gifts, and some facets of businesses are ‘seasonal’ for that very reason. Some folks are even bold enough to splurge on themselves once in a while and explain it away, saying: “I gifted myself” such and such. Of course, more often than not, this is simply an excuse to purchase something you wanted, which no one else would purchase and “gift” to you.
    Man has long been the recipients of gifts from God. Whether or not we are aware, life itself is a gift from God as Paul stated at Mars Hill in Acts 17:28a - For in him we live, and move, and have our being;. In fact, creation is a very generous gift from God toward mankind as all that was created was for the benefit of man. In Gen. 1:29, God Himself told Adam and Eve the herbs, the trees and the fruit of the trees was created for man. Then, from Gen. 9:3, after the flood, God told Noah, “Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things.” So, God has gifted mankind all he needs to sustain life in this realm.
   God provides “gifts” to all mankind through His general Providence as He gives sun and rain upon the earth and everything needed for things to grow. Jesus alluded to this on the Sermon on the Mount in Matt. 5:45b - for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.  Also, we are informed in 2Pet. 3:7 of the gift of God in that “…the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment…” Surely we consider that the earth remains in place and does not “fly off” of its axis and out of orbit, a gift that God has given to humanity.
     Unfortunately, man sometimes needs to be reminded that not all gifts from God or man are unconditional. In Eccl. 3:13, the Spirit had the wise man remind Israel that the provisions of God are to be enjoyed, but we must work for some of these. He wrote: And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.  Labor is work, so to receive some of the “gifts of God”, we must put forth effort. This sentiment is also repeated in Eccl. 5:18-19. In the New Testament, in 2Thess. 3:10, these brethren were told: “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” Yes, God has offered many gifts to His creation, but He also expected man to do as God Commanded to receive these.
   Not all gifts from God are physical or tangible, nor is everyone fully aware of what these are. In John 4:6-24, as Jesus talked with the Samaritan woman at the well, He revealed several things. 1) This woman did not know what the “gift of God” was.  2) At that point, she was not aware that He who spoke with her, was the Promised Messiah. 3) Not having been properly taught, she did not fully understand the nature of the “living water” of which Christ spoke. Sadly, according to verse 15, like many today, she seemingly expected the “gift of God” to be freely given to relieve her needs and reduce her efforts in this life.  
   Also, one cannot “buy” God’s gifts to man. In the infancy of the church, certain temporary “spiritual gifts” were in place in absence of the written Word. These were put in place to confirm the Word that was being orally communicated until the written New Testament Word was totally revealed, penned, and compiled. Simon of Samaria, in Acts 8:5-13, had been taught the truth, obeyed the gospel by being baptized into Christ, and then “wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.”. Afterward, when the apostles, Peter and John arrived, Simon observed them “laying hands” on some of the new Christians to impart these temporary gifts. This is when he made the mistake of trying to procure a “gift of God” with money. Notice what Peter told him per Acts 8:20-21. Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. ²¹ Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.  One who has a heart (mind) that is not “right with God” should never expect any gifts of a spiritual nature from God.  
   There is however, an everlasting gift of God that is in contrast with the result of the sin of this world. Rom. 6:23 identifies both, as well as the only means by which this gift from God can be obtained. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Sadly, many want God to give them this gift with little or no effort on their part. Those who do, often cite Eph. 2:8, which reads: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” A failure to understand what God’s grace is, causes many to also not receive this gift of God. Titus 2:11-12 clearly teaches that God’s grace has appeared to all.   But the verbiage also shows that God’s Word is part of the gifts He’s given man.
   Will you not obey the gospel today and receive God’s gift of the promise of eternal life per (1John 2:25)?  Then you must “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” as Phil. 2:12b advises to retain that promised gift throughout eternity.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

How To Get "It" Done

How To Get “It” Done

     There is much to do during the course of a life. There is so much to do, one must prioritize. Then, once we choose what is of most importance to us, we must get started so we can accomplish our desired goal. Scripture is provided to instruct the what, when and how to do “it”. In Eccl. 9:10, the Spirit had Solomon pen this sage advice. All would do well to heed this instruction. Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
   First, the what. One must choose what to do. Read that passage again. Notice that the Spirit did not tell us what to do. This is entirely up to the individual, as Psalm 119:109a clearly shows. My soul is continually in my hand: We are also required to determine what is of most importance to us as we live our lives. This too, is a Bible concept. In Matt. 16:26, Jesus directed His disciple’s attention toward the soul by asking questions. He asked: For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? So, the “whatsoever thy hand findeth to do” based on importance, should be the well-being of your soul and making Biblical provision for its eternity.
   Secondly, the when. This is an easy one, as we see that in this life only can we accomplish anything. Of course, the time we might have is limited, as we cannot know how long our lives will be. The Spirit had the psalmist show a probable span of life in Psalm 90:10. But in the latter part of the verse, we are told: “yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” In the N.T. the church was also warned of how brief life is. In Jas. 4:14, the church was reminded that life “is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” Time is a commodity that one cannot afford to waste. If our time here is not properly focused on the soul, our time on earth is wasted.  
    Since we’ve covered the what (the provision for the soul), and the when (while in this life), we now need to address the ‘how’. We were told in the scripture above the ‘how’ is “with thy might   ”. The Spirit had Solomon tell us that whatever we choose to do, in this life, we are to put all we have into accomplishing it. Many have accomplished much through hard work and dedication to a particular thing. For example, it is agreed that Larry Bird, the all star forward for the Boston Celtics from 1979 through 1992 was not a naturally gifted athlete. Yet, he accomplished much during his career. Even as a premier player in his prime, he always arrived early for practice, remained there after the other players had finished, constantly worked to refine his skills, and encouraged his teammates to do the same. For this reason, he was respected by teammates and opponents alike. He was also feared by rival teams for his developed abilities and his tenacity. All agreed Larry put “all his might” into becoming the best he could be.
   What single word encapsulates “with thy might”? The word “diligence” fits this. One who puts forth all his might to accomplish something is diligent. In order to be diligent, one must have a deep “commitment” to that which they want to accomplish. Sure, one has to exert their strength, force, and power to elevate themselves to the pinnacle of supremacy in any earthly endeavor, but where does this start?   It begins in the mind. The same is true if we desire to be pleasing to God and spend eternity with Him. Jesus affirmed this in Matt. 22:37 when He was asked what was the greatest Commandment in the Law. Christ’s answer: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  None doubts the commitment of Jesus, nor His diligence in the doing of His Father’s Will. Diligence is defined as: careful and persistent work or effort. Christ gave His all, including His life on the cross to carry out God’s Will so that our soul could have opportunity to be saved.
   In the first part of John 14:31, we see Jesus’ declaration to His apostles of His love and commitment to His Father. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. The evidence of His love and commitment was the diligence with which He “did” the Commandments. It is in John 14:15 where Jesus tells us how to show our love to Him and how to show our diligence toward Him. He said: If ye love me, keep my commandments. 1John 5:3 confirms this and that “it” is not too hard. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 
    Some, having heard the Word and have begun to follow and serve the Lord, realize the difficulty of continuing therein because of the persecution of others, or the “call of the world”. They, like the disciples of John chapter six, begin to question the Word. Sadly, like those of John 6:66, many go back, and walk no more with Him. What does this show? It shows a lack of commitment, dedication, and diligence. This equates to a lost soul.
    The only “it” that matters in this life is loving God and keeping His Commandments in preparation for eternity. Why not start today? Obey the gospel. Then strive to live the rest of your life in faithful service to God in full accordance with His Word. This includes inviting all others to do the same. This is the only way to “get it done”.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Importance Of Conviction

Importance Of Conviction

     The article below is ‘borrowed’ from the Northside Anchor, the bulletin of the Northside church of Christ in Calhoun Georgia.
It is a fitting article as conviction cannot take place until one “hears” with their ears, obeys and commits themselves to the Lord in full accordance with the Word of God.

The lack of conviction usually yields to the ever-dangerous spirit of lawlessness. Lawlessness is a manifestation of one's lack of self-discipline and serves as a breeding ground for hypocrisy. Lawlessness is bred of weakness, and typically yields to those not in authority, the ignorant, and the otherwise unqualified leader, including women.

A leader without conviction usually possesses a certain degree of gullibility, in that, when error is being advanced in some manner, he may be easily led to believe that it is acceptable. As a consequence, this type of leader will be the 'pied piper' who will lead the flock into apostasy. Paul warned the Ephesian elders there would be some of their own number who would “...arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:30).

A faithful leader with conviction will serve as a valiant shepherd when the devil's 'wolves' are threatening the flock. Paul writes to Titus concerning the fortitude which should be possessed of those who are leaders, and states that they are to hold “fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped...” (Titus 1:9-11). Clearly, when a leader possesses conviction, he is one who is stable in his faith and in his work (1 Cor. 15:58).

The lack of conviction will usually be accompanied by a lack of good sense. Consider Solomon's son, Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12. Upon the death of his father, he comes to the throne of Israel. His subjects came to him pleading for relief from the excessive labor and heavy taxation. Rehoboam consulted with the older and wiser men who advised him to lighten the burden and the people would respond to him favorably. However, the king also consulted with the young men among whom he had grown up, who advised him to increase the burden on the people. Bear in mind, that any conviction which is deemed to be of any value, is based on knowledge and wisdom. The older men possessed such knowledge, the younger did not. Rehoboam hearkened to the council of the younger men, and as a consequence of this lack of common sense, the kingdom divided with ten of the tribes departing. This scene sadly depicts many similar scenarios in various congregations of the Lord's church today, where the lack of common sense in its leaders in listening to the unlearned, inexperienced, and the unwise, have caused those congregations to be weaken by virtue of its division.

The lack of conviction will, as well, give way to the spirit of compromise. The child of God should never “...give place to the devil...” (Eph. 4:27). A leader is not to compromise with the 'gainsayer,' he must 'convince' him, and 'stop' his 'unruly and vain' deceit (Titus 1:9-10). Paul urged the Thessalonian brethren to “...stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle” (2 Thess. 2:15). For a leader to compromise the truth, clearly exposes his incompetence. A competent leader will emulate the sentiment as expressed by Solomon: “Buy the truth, and sell it not...” (Prov. 23:23). Consequently, if one possesses conviction, i.e., a strong persuasion of belief, he will not compromise that belief, but will be disposed to defend it (Jude 3).

Conviction in leadership cannot be over emphasized. May our leaders apply these words from the apostle Paul: “Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hard- ness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (Emp. RH). No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things” (2 Tim. 2:1-7).
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The Word of the Lord is very clear in that one must not only hear, but also do as God Commands. However, one cannot consistently “do” as the Bible teaches unless or until they are “committed” to God and His Word.  Read, study, and meditate on the Word of God daily, and do it because you love God. This is when “commitment” becomes evident.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Who Are You Trying To Fool?

Who Are You Trying To Fool?

     The above question is sometimes asked when the one who is about to be ‘fooled’ begins to see the deceit in the actions or antics of one who is trying to fool, trick, beguile, or dupe them. When one is successful in the fooling of another, the ‘fooled’ might say: “Fool me once, shame on you; but fool me twice, shame on me”. To be deceived in a thing the first time is bad enough, but to be conned in the same situation twice simply means that person is not being observant of those who would repeatedly take advantage of them.  
   Through the years, there have been many sayings about being fooled. I suspect this is because so many have been fooled over the annals of time. Observation of this tactic likely produced sayings that would be remembered, passed on to others, recorded in print or some other means in an effort to prevent folks in the future to be misled in the same way. This is why someone once said: “if we don't learn from our past, we are doomed to repeat it  ”.   
     One of my favorite quotes on this subject of being fooled is: “You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time   ”. This is often attributed to Abraham Lincoln. While the saying is true, the exact origin and whether Lincoln actually said it are debated.  But as I contemplated this quote, I realized that whoever originated it, left off the most important part.     The most important point would have been stated if they concluded with “and you cannot fool God any time ”!
   The Holy Spirit had the psalmist pen the Words of Psa. 94:11, and these Words shows that none can fool God. The LORD knoweth the thoughts of man, that they are vanity. God, in His foreknowledge, knows the thoughts of man before man thinks them. When we forget God or try to fool God, remember what the psalmist penned in Psa 44:21. Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart.
    God’s foreknowledge of our thoughts does not alter the fact that man has choice in all things. Man was created with the capability to reason, consider options and choose, and those born following creation were also given this capability. When a person receives improper, or inadequate information, the likelihood of becoming fooled or deceived increases exponentially. As stated earlier, to be fooled or deceived is a bad thing. But something that is far worse is when one deceives themselves. We are told in Gal. 6:3 of one way, one ‘fools’ himself.  For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. Therefore, if a person thinks they are ‘saved’ and are not, they are fooling or deceiving themselves. Who are they trying to fool?
   God’s Word warns against self-deception in Jer.37:9, and in 1Cor. 3:18. Additionally, warnings against allowing others to deceive us can be found in Jer. 29:8; Matt. 24:4; Eph. 5:6; 2Thess. 2:3; and 1John 3:7, and the Words “let no man deceive you   ” are found in several of these verses. So, whether you are trying to deceive others, or if you are fooling (deceiving) yourself regarding the soul saving plan God formulated, and was brought to fruition by Jesus, His only begotten Son, you are doing so contrary to God’s Word and are sinning against Him.
     Another quote about being fooled is attributed to Søren Kierkegaard, the Danish existentialist philosopher. He said: "There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn't true; the other is to refuse to believe what is true."  Let us look at both of these. 1) What does God’s N.T. Word say about believing what isn’t true? 1John 4:1 commands that we are not to believe “every spirit ”, but to “try them ” (test them), “because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” Additionally, 2Pet. 2:1 shows that the “false teachers” among them brought in “damnable heresies” and would “bring upon themselves swift destruction.” Those who are fooled by and follow the damnable heresies put forth by false teachers will also see eternal destruction. 2) What does God’s N.T. Word say about refusing to believe what is true? Rom. 2:8 tells us that they “that are contentious, and do not obey the truth ”, are subject to the wrath of God.  Then, there is 2Thess. 2:12, which clearly teaches that “they all might be damned who believed not the truth ”.
   Don’t allow others to fool you, and don’t fool yourself. One can only please God by doing what His Word directs. Read, study and meditate on the Word of God, and always do as He directs. His Word is the only thing that is divine truth as 2Tim. 3:16 shows - All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  The next verse states that by inspired scripture, man can be “throughly furnished unto all good works”.
   The Bereans of Acts 17:10-11 weren’t trying to fool anyone, and they did not want to be fooled. What did they do? After hearing the preaching and teaching, “searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Jesus said it best. In John 8:31-32, He said to continue in His Word made one a disciple (learner, pupil) of Him. Then He stated: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Free from being fooled, and if one follows and obeys that truth, free from sin. Who are you trying to fool?   Obey the gospel. Remain faithful till death. Seek to please God and be with Him for eternity when time ends.  

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ