"Who Moved My Cheese" 4

Fear can be debilitating to say the least.  It can lead to all kinds of problems in one's life.  Anything from fear of failure to fear of succeeding can freeze us in our tracks.  I have to confess there have been times in the past few months where "fear" was and still is at times overwhelming.  I have found myself very much afraid of the "what ifs."  What if I cannot find a job? What if I made the wrong decision?  What if I'm a failure?  What if I cannot recapture my self worth?  Then I am reminded there is nothing to fear except God and God says he will never leave me.  I take comfort in those words.  Change has brought about many emotions for me.  Some days I am at peace, but there are those times when I am anxious to the point of explosion.  Through the tears of fear I can see great possibilities for my future.  I covet prayers and pray continuously for God's comfort and strength. 

By the way, today is a good day!!  Going to get up and get dressed and meet my brother for lunch.  I'm really looking forward to it.

Have a great day!

CW 

"Who Moved My Cheese" 3

I have never been one who advocated "change for the sake of change."  With that said, I am reminded of Albert Einstein's definition of insanity, "doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." 

This has been a time of sincere self reflection for me.  These are some things I have discovered:

1.  I cannot force others to change to suit my ideal person.
2.  Listen more and talk less.
3.  My opinion may be valid, but not everyone has the same opinion.
4.  Most importantly, trust God in all circumstances.  I'm not superman.

These are just a few of a long list, and there is one more thing that is so very important.  It doesn't matter what strangers think of me as long as those whom I love and care about love me and accept me with all my quirks. 

Now for the change.  I want to be more like Jesus before I disappear into the crowd. 

1.  Really really love God with all my heart and mind.
2.  Really really love others as myself.
3.  Always exhibit an attitude befitting of being Christ-like.
4.  Stop complaining to others about everything.
5.  Work on the fruit of the spirit in my life.
6.  Finally, let others see Jesus in me.

Change?  Yes!  With God all things are possible.

Have a great day,

CW

doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/alberteins133991.html#GpIRTyRCH7Ko1V6l.99

doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/alberteins133991.html#GpIRTyRCH7Ko1V6l.99

"Who Moved My Cheese" 2

Like most, I have lots of "stuff" and have learned in almost 52 years how unimportant my "stuff" is to me.  Oh sure there's the comfort and sometimes security my stuff provides, but when it's all said and done, it's just "stuff." 

I have worked endlessly trying to protect, not "stuff," but my ministry.  I have held onto it tightly and spent much of my time trying to defend it and myself.  Now I can look back on it and know how foolish I was to think it was mine from the beginning.  I found much comfort and security in the role of pastor.  I liked the "position."  Many times I would look in the mirror with pride as though I was doing God a huge favor by being a pastor.  Yeah, yeah, I knew in my head that ministry belonged to God, but I still tenaciously held on to the role.  "Mine, mine, all mine!" 

I believe God placed a calling on my life, and it is still alive, but it's not well.  God has benched me for awhile.  I pray daily for forgiveness and maybe someday I will humbly find better "cheese."  May I be more submissive to His will and direction in my life.  Thank you, Lord for your patience and love.

Have a great day!

CW

"Who Moved My Cheese"

One of my favorite books is Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson, M.D.  It addresses the issue of change in one's life.  The next several posts will be reflected in my blog concerning change.  I recently made a huge change in my life and stepped away from the "career" pastorate.  For 30 years I found tremendous joy as a pastor.  It was my "cheese."  I suffered at the hands of members in such a way that caused great distress and regardless of my best efforts, joy began to disappear.  My "cheese" was slowly disappearing. 

Not too long ago, I too, went to the station where there was ample supply of "cheese" for many years.  "WHO MOVED MY CHEESE?"  It was gone.  My "happiness" had vanished.  Oh, it wasn't a quick "here today, gone tomorrow" event.  It was a slow process.  So now I have to find new cheese, and I find myself in the maze searching through tearful eyes and a broken heart.  Oh please don't feel sorry for me because I know my Lord has never and will never leave me nor forsake me.  Encourage me to have courage to strap on my maze running shoes and run the race I know my Lord has set before me.  Once my wounds are healed and my faith is strengthened I will proclaim the gospel.  I may not be a pastor, but my calling is sure as any born again believer in Jesus Christ.  "Go and tell, make disciples." 

My prayer for today, Dear God - show me where the "cheese" is and I will go there.



Have a wonderful day, I know I will --

CW

In God We Trust

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...I was thinking the other day about the impact of the "government shutdown."  I was thinking about those "little" phrases such as "for the people, by the people" and some of the basic tenants of democracy.  I remember as a child through my early 20's how secure I felt with "capable" people we placed in office to look out for the well being of our nation.  I remember believing those "patriots" would sacrifice their own agenda to do what was best for the country.  Clearly, that's not the case and a hard reminder for us all.  People will disappoint. 

However, I still believe "in God we trust," "one nation under God," and I know God is on His throne.  I take comfort in that very fact.  I know God will never ever let us down.  The bible teaches us we are to "walk by faith" daily.  Joshua challenges us to "choose this day, whom you will serve, but as for me and my house, we are going to serve the Lord."

Trust God, He will never disappoint!!

Have a great day,

CW

My Most Comfortable Chair...

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...After several years of being without one, I now am the owner of a recliner.  It's really nice and comfortable.  I try not to sit in it during the day because I tend to fall asleep in it.  Well, I've only had it for a little over a year, but it's where I sit in the evenings.  We do enjoy our luxuries and comforts in life, huh? 

Unfortunately, that carries over to our "Christian" life as well.  It's easy to be a Christian as long as we "do it" on our terms.  Nice buildings, comfortable seats, heating and air.  We can go and sit and watch the "show" on Sundays.  If we don't like the preacher or music is not our flavor, we can just shop around until we find something that's going to keep us comfortable. 

For the past few weeks I have been really heart broken over our brothers and sisters in Christ being martyred for their faith in other nations.  Can you believe it? People are still being killed in 2013 because they are Christian.  Folks, we are going to have to get off our backsides and get down on our knees and pray, pray, pray.  Let's get out of the cushy "Christianity" mindset and "comfortable gospel" and proclaim Jesus Christ in our culture.  God wants our best, not our leftovers.  Pray diligently for our brothers and sisters around the world. 

Remember:  For God so loved the world...We do not have a monopoly on salvation.  I believe there is a real possibility, we too may some day deal with the loss of life and church buildings because we have taken up the mantle of Christ.

Pray, Pray, Pray...

CW

Where oh Where Were You...9/11/2001

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...I'm a day late with this posting, I just wasn't settled on what could be said that hasn't already been said concerning that fateful day. 

Where was I when I first heard the news?  I had just finished teaching my first class of the day at Spartanburg Methodist College and caught the news on the first tower and while watching I saw a second plane crash into the second tower.  There was a tv mounted on the wall just outside the professor's lounge.  All of us who were living then remember where we were when we heard the news.  I remember the events that followed the next week and the pictures displayed of the hijackers.  I remember our nation's leaders standing together (democrats and republicans) arm in arm. 

Twelve years have passed by now and our world has never been the same since.  However, I hold on to the fact as much as our nation and the world changes, and we may not feel as secure as we once did.  GOD IS STILL ON HIS THRONE!! JESUS STILL DIED FOR OUR SINS!!  JESUS WILL COME BACK AGAIN!! And I still preach the Gospel Message from the same Bible I did before 9/11/2001 and will continue to do so until the Lord takes me home.

Good News!  Our God Still Reigns!!

Have a great day!

CW

More Pancakes??...

The Ponderings of an Everyday guy continues...Sometimes you just have to order pancakes for breakfast.  Sure, eggs with all the trimmings are good, but there are those times we want to mix it up and have the pancakes with butter and syrup.  Ohhhhh... the wonderful taste of syrup as it trickles over the tongue and down the throat.  Can you say yum??  Of course, we don't eat pancakes for every meal.  Can you imagine what syrup would begin to taste like after a few days.  Ugh!!! Not more syrup.  We would begin to resent it after awhile and it definitely would lose it's "yumminess."

I'm from the South and have lived here most of my life.  We call this the "Bible Belt."  I can walk in any direction and find a church within a mile or less from my home.  Every church around me all have a different flavor.  There are even differences between churches of the same denomination.  All good people with good preachers, but I've noticed a trend in the past several years that is bothersome and of great concern.  With as many "Christian" churches in the same area, why is it a majority of the population are anywhere and everywhere else on Sundays and not in worship.  Oh, I'm not blaming the majority population or even the churches.  I'm just raising the question.

Could it be the church today has become so "syrupy sour" that we are not impacting our communities for Christ anymore?  Have we become indifferent to a lost and dying world to focus more on our own survival?  Has the church become ineffective and powerless?  Sweet stuff such as syrup tastes good, but it doesn't nourish nor lasts.  People need the meat of the Gospel.  People need the truth and truth is a person and that person is Jesus Christ.  We need to stop trying to keep everyone happy and start giving the best stuff.

Put the syrup away and pass the salt - Let's be salty!

Have a great day,

CW

A Song From My Past...

From the Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...When I was a teenager, I sang in the high school choir.  One of the songs we sang has stuck in my mind all these years. It is written by Henry Walford Davies titled God Be In My Head:

God be in my head,
And in my understanding;
God be in mine eyes,
And in my looking;
God be in my mouth,
And in my speaking;
God be in my heart,
And in my thinking;
God be at mine end,
And at my departing.

When I am discouraged or my mind is racing with worry - I still sing these words as a prayer.  This is something very personal and very heartfelt.  It's a relief to know God is there for us in troubling times.

Do you have a song you sing or a verse you can quote during those times?  If not, know God does hear our prayers.

Have a great day,

CW

Just Another Day...

or is it?...The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...There are some days I wake up "ill as a hornet."  You know those kind of days where you are angry and irritable and don't know why.  It doesn't take much to set you off.  I am an avid people watcher. (no worries...I'm not one of those creepy guys). I just observe people and behavior at the mall or anywhere else.  I have noticed changes in behavior of the masses in the past few years.  People seem to be more impatient and really angry.  I wonder what may be going on in their lives to cause such personal chaos of hearts and minds. Then of course there are those delightful people who are "a breath of fresh air." 

But I digress back to those "angry, unpleasant" folks.  I suppose it is expected in the world we live, but the bothersome part of all this is I have seen it in many Christian Churches as well.  Satan has done a number on many who are to be witnesses not only by words but deeds as well.  Kind words and a genuine concern goes a long way in our witness to a lost and dying world.  In my ponderings for today - Aren't God's children suppose to be the most joyful people on earth?  Aren't we to let others see Jesus in our lives?  If I may quote the fruit of the Spirit for us:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.  Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)

I still believe God's people can make a difference in our world today.  Sure, there are times we wake up "ill as a hornet," but we need to get over it! Remember, we ought to be witnesses out there.  Even when the world seems to be falling in around us!

Okay-Everyday is not just another day!  It's the day the Lord has made, and God is still on the throne. And we who are born again, have an eternal home called Heaven.  Oh, what a joyous day this can be!

Have a great one,

CW

Me, Me, Me, It's all about Me...

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy Continues...I heard a sermon years ago on "Growing in the Grace and Knowledge of Our Lord, Jesus Christ."  The speaker began his message with the analogy of babes in Christ to that of real babies.  He said that the most selfish creature on earth is a baby.  When they're hungry, they cry. When they want to be held, they cry.  Basically, babies cry until they get what they want.  Then he transitioned to us "grown up" babies.  We cry and whine until we get what we want.  Unfortunately, in the Christian life there are many who never grow up. 

A baby will mope, and doesn't "play" well with others.  A baby is one who says, "if I can't be in charge, I just won't participate."  A baby can be very selfish and never  mature in their faith.

Well, this is  a sad and tragic charge made to many today.  It's related to pride.  Pride thinks of no one but themselves.  If I may share something I read just the other day on the top ten evidences of a pride.

1. Pride refuses to listen, it always interrupts others.
2. Pride likes to talk about itself all the time.
3. Pride has an intense desire to be noticed.
4. Pride believes that it deserves everything it gets.
5. Pride is not thankful.
6. Pride cannot be corrected.
7. Pride does not like to follow instructions.
8. Pride exalts itself in the presence of others; it brags.
9. Pride criticizes and tries to makes itself look better by putting others down.
10. Pride thinks of its own needs first.  

Proverbs 16:5   Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord:..

 

So today I encourage all of us to continue to "grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ."

 

Have a great day,

 

CW

Plain or Peanut...

From The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...Who doesn't love candy?  I LOVE LOVE CANDY!  One of my favorites is M&Ms.  My wife is partial to peanut M&Ms, and I prefer plain in all its chocolate goodness.  We have been married for almost 29 years and she hasn't come over to the plain M&M side, nor have I budged to the peanut side.  No worries folks, we're not going to get divorced over this difference.  As a matter of fact, we have many many differences.  I'm glad about that because it is a great reminder to us that God has made us wonderfully different and unique. 

The point of today's pondering is WE ARE ALL SPECIAL in the eyes of God.  Society tells us we are supposed to think a certain way, look a certain way, behave a certain way.  Satan reminds us of all our faults (warts and all).  Sometimes we need to be reminded that God loves us so much. 

I heard one person put it this way.  God doesn't make trash.  He creates perfection in His eyes.

Hey, choose your flavor of candy and go with it!!

You are special,

Have a great day,

CW

The Boogie Woogie...

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...Someone sent me a video a few years ago of a young couple tap dancing to the "boogie woogie" song.  Puts a smile on my face every time I watch it.  It's amazing how much energy this couple has.  They are definitely having a good time for sure.  Those of you who know me, know I like all kinds of music except for rap, but that's a subject for another blog sometime.  Music, however, does move the soul in all of us.  It does bring joy to our lives.

Jesus brings joy to our lives.  I think it's a crying shame to see so many Christians who look like they have been sucking on lemons.  They are going to be in for a shock in heaven when they see this preacher dancing down the streets of heaven to what must be the best music ever.  Hey folks, let's put a little joy in our lives and experience the full measure of the Holy Spirit everyday. 

Let's boogie,

Have a great day,

CW

Church Talk...

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy..."Sanctification," "Justification," "Transubstantiation," and "Glorification."  What do these words have in common?  1. They are all good church words. 2. They're BIG words. 3.  Many folks need a dictionary for at least one of those words.

Oh...Don't get me wrong, they're not bad words at all.  When I began doing this blog, one of my purposes was to make it light and easy to understand one or two biblical teachings.  It's not intended to be shallow or without substance.  I just want this to be something that an everyday person can relate to their lives and maybe get a few chuckles, and finally, be encouraged or challenged.

I take my cue from Jesus here. He taught by using everyday illustrations such as fishing and farming.  I've learned a very long time ago if everyone cannot understand the Gospel message, it's of no use. 

I guess the acronym KISS is my directive.  Keep It Simple Stupid.  God's message to humanity is simple, salvation is simple. 

Enjoy your day! 

CW

Just for Laughs...

From The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...This is the sign that hangs in my home.  It speaks volumes to how I have chosen to live everyday life!!  Those of you who know me, know I especially love to laugh.  Some may call it a "character flaw," but they are so wrong.  There is nothing like a good belly laugh at times.  Unfortunately, there are those today who have lost their joy and have forgotten how to smile let alone laugh.  I have another great picture I keep in my home office called "the Laughing Jesus." 

I will post a picture of it on here sometime.  It's an awesome picture and really brings joy to my heart when I look at it.  It's the way I picture him.  The bible is clear that we ought to be joyful.  It's one way the work of the Holy Spirit manifests in our lives. 

 

Okay, here's today's homework assignment - find time today to "Live Well, Love Much, and especially Laugh Often." 

 

Have a great day,

 

CW

Father's Day...

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...Yes that's a great father/son moment.  A father's love toward a son who knows he is going to be a superhero.  Isn't that the way of it.  All fathers want the best for their children, and we all have high hopes for them.  We wish the best for them and even dare to dream big things for them.  Of course in our hearts and minds we will always remain proud of our offspring. Yes all of our children have a great potential of being heroes.  Whether we admit it or not, many children become heroes to their parents. I'm fortunate to have two heroes in my family.

 

***********************************************************************************

There are those, unfortunately, who see their dads as tyrants.  But the bottom line is...children will always search for the good in their fathers.  As children aren't perfect, parents cannot be perfect at all times either.  But when all is said and done. Love goes a long way.  Dad's in the depths of their hearts love their children, and we cannot ever give up looking for the good.

**********************************************************************************

 Then, of course, even the monsters of humanity recognize the importance of family.  We all have bad days and say things we regret.  But in the end...We find ourselves running to each other for support and strength. 

Finally, there is my dad.  He's my hero.  He taught me right from wrong, and gave me a great sense of humor.  I don't see him as often as I would like, but I love him dearly.  I'm thankful for him and always will be...

Have a Great Day!!

CW





Ponderings and the Future...

 

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...In 1966, Gene Roddenbury introduced us to a fantasy future of starships, transporters, aliens, and the glamour of space travel. The series only lasted for three seasons, and never really caught on initially. It was too "far fetched," and unrealistic for the culture of the day. However, the show dared to speculate the "possible" future for humanity. The 80's re-introduced us to those incredible characters again and has become a spectacular media event. 

The future has always been a passion for many of us, especially those of us who run in certain religious circles.  Many people have asked me more times than I can count about preaching/teaching series on Revelation and endtimes.  Today has sparked many to erronously lay the newspaper besided the bible and fit everything together like a jigsaw puzzle or to find some kind of code to get the "heads up" on the future. 

Okay...For enquiring minds who really want to know what the future holds...God wins...The Devil loses...and God's children will spend eternity in heaven.

Have a great day!!

CW

Look Where You Are Aiming...

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...I enjoy watching movies and look forward to some of the block busters coming out this summer.  There are a few movies and shows my family and I enjoy watching because we can find bloopers such as the occasional plane flying over the Lone Ranger and Tonto, or a cowboy sporting a nice watch.  I always chuckle when I see an action hero close his eyes before he shoots the enemy and always hits the target. 

Many times we set goals for our lives and never really make any plans to achieve those goals.  It's like closing our eyes and aiming, and just maybe we will hit the target by going with the flow.  It's like being on a boat with no paddles and just maybe the currents will carry us where we want to go.  Sounds irresponsible, huh?

Sometimes we live our Christian lives the same way with no real plan for growth in Christ.  We just close our eyes and aim.  There is no set time for devotion and prayer, nothing in our schedule that puts worship as a priority, and our bible study time is when we have time.  Set some goals in your relationship with Jesus Christ, and make plans to get there. 

Open your eyes when you shoot...You have a better chance of hitting your target...

Have a great day,

CW

Unconditional Love

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...Meet Bella!!  She is one awesome member of my family.  One of my favorite times of the day is in the early evening right after supper while I am reclined in my chair. Why? Because this little girl will jump up on my stomach and give me kisses all over my face...Yeah, I know it's disgusting to you who read my ponderings.  However, she reminds me how much she loves me and can put a smile on my face and helps me put away whatever kind of day I've had. 

Uncondtional love!  There's nothing like it.  She never judges me.  She never stays away from me.  She knows I care for her, and she just loves me even when I am unlovable.  Sounds weird I suppose. 

We are all seeking unconditional love and you know what?  We all experience it every single day whether we are aware of it or not.  God loves us unconditionally and completely.  He renews and strengthens my heart everyday. 

FEEL THE LOVE FOLKS!!

Have a great day,

CW

The One With the Most Toys...

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy continues...My desk is cluttered with some pretty cool things.  I have "the Original Rubber Duck" still in it's original box, a "Wilson" antenna ball from the movie "Cast Away," a Walter bobble head (Jeff Dunham's Old Man puppet), a "Happy Pill" that laughs uncontrollably when you squeeze it, and the list goes on.  I know, I know you're thinking "geesh what a big kid." That's okay, I'm sure you have your toys too.  These put a smile on my face on those "blue" days.

We do collect our toys, huh?  Ohhhh, we spend our lives consumed with things. Who has the most or the best or the newest?  Things make us comfortable and gives us worth.  I wonder if it's a mistake to say "God has truly blessed us" because we have the means to accumulate our toys.  Oh, please don't misunderstand me...I am not faulting anyone who is well off.  I'm not sour because I don't have a big house and expensive car. I truly am happy for those who are able to afford those things.  I'm with the Apostle Paul who said, Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. Philippians 4:11 (ESV)

Being content...Now that's a tall order.  If we can learn to do that everyday, worry will go away.  Besides, Jesus tells us to "Seek the Kingdom of God first...."  He will always meet our needs.

I'm going now to listen to my "Happy Pill" laugh and chuckle along with it.

Hey, have a great day...

CW

Bunkers, Water Hazards, Mulligans and Such…

Thoughts and ponderings of an Everyday Guy…Golf is a game I love to hate, but I keep going back.  I’m a terrible golfer comparatively speaking.  I do however, keep going back every week.  There are many life lessons that parallel to this insufferable game…so here goes…

There are many hazards on golf courses to include sand traps, water hazards, woods, etc…I hit my ball to all of these places and yes, sometimes on the same hole.  It’s frustrating to say the least.  You know, I’ve never tried to nor have I seen anyone else try to hit their ball in the sand, water, or woods, but everyone who has ever played this game has found themselves in the predicament of losing a stroke because their ball ended up there.  We do our best to stand the right way, grip the club the way we are supposed to, keep our arm straight, and keep our head down, but there it goes to that unbearable trap.

We live our lives loving God, obeying His commands, following the “golden rule.”  All of those things we are supposed to do, yet there are times we find ourselves digging out of bunkers….The hazards are all around us and we do our best to avoid them, but then “life” happens.  My heart is broken for those in Moore, Oklahoma today.  Good people, precious children, and those who live their lives and looking to a great future, and then “life” happens.

So, I have a choice. Do I put my clubs away and take up fishing or do I show up early next Tuesday morning and venture out to the golf course for another round? Do we give up and stop living for our Lord, loving our children, and dreaming of the future, or do we show up for another day and live life to the fullest? 

This world offers bunkers, water hazards, etc…We don’t aim for them and we continue to avoid them.  When we find ourselves in these circumstances remember “God is a very present help in time of trouble.”  May the ears of God hear my prayer today as I cry out on behalf of those who are in desperate need.

Grab hold of the best club in your bag…

Have a great day!

CW

Hot and Now!!

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy…I love it, love it, love it… That neon sign lighting up so brightly that says “Hot and Now.”  It makes my mouth water with anticipation of heavenly sweetness about to be enjoyed in all its goodness. 

We live in a culture with golden arches, and have given royalty to the almighty burger.  A little girl with red hair and pigtails claims to serve the juiciest of all burgers, and let’s not forget the bell that promises to spice up our taste buds with cuisine from south of the border.  Yes folks, we do live in a “fast food” society. 

Oh, this is nothing new.  Promise of quick satisfaction is the motto for today.  We want it and want it now.   No wonder we have forgotten the basic principle of what it means to live the Christian life by faith.  We have forgotten to wait on God and be patient.  Too often we make a decision and do it and then ask God to bless our decision and actions. 

I’ve learned a life changing lesson recently I want to share with you.  Keep doing what God has instructed you to do until He gives you new instructions.  Operate on His plans and timetable.  We can learn much in the waiting.

Hot and Now sounds good, but God promises something much better in His time.

Have a great day,

CW

Monsters, Goblins, and Things that Go BUMP in the Night!

The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy continues… If I may paraphrase a statement made by a colleague, “I’m not afraid of Frankenstein,  Dracula, or any other primetime creature of the night, but a little girl with a big knife and an evil grin makes me wet myself a little.”  I wish I could have found the exact statement, but I think you get the gist. 

I’ve met people through the years that are afraid of a lot of things to include “big brother” watching them to current events in the news.  Many are afraid of the future and what may be hiding around the next corner of life.  Truthfully, we do not need to be afraid of any of these things or possible events.

However, I do know we should fear God.  He is the one who ultimately will judge the world and us.  The term “God fearing” used to mean something.  People lived their lives believing in God, but too many times we live like there is no God or consequences for our actions.

Good news!  By the grace of God, and because of the blood of Jesus we can experience forgiveness of our sins.  Truly, Jesus taught when we pray we are to recognize that even the very name of God must be “hallowed”.  That means revered, shown reverence. 

Do not be afraid of things that go BUMP in the night.  Be assured God is bigger and stronger than anything the devil can throw at us.

Have a great day,

CW

Whippoorwills and Robins

Again, we venture into the ponderings of an Everyday Guy.  I admit it...I am a country music fan and have listened to many many of those "lovelorn" songs through the years.  Today, one of the songs on my mind tells about whippoorwills and robins.

(Clearing my throat)  Here goes...

"Hearing that lonesome whippoorwill, He sounds too blue to fly. The midnight train is whining low, I'm so lonesome I could cry.

Did you ever see a robin weep, when leaves begin to die.  That means he's lost the will to live, I'm so lonesome I could cry."

Wow, talk about depressing...I suppose Mondays can do that to people.  Trust me when I say I've had my share of the Monday blues, but I praise God today is not one of them.

Here's why...

Jesus said, "Come unto me all who are heavy laden, and I will give you rest..." Matthew 11:28

No need to have the blues when we have the comfort and strength of Christ.

Have a great day!

CW

 

 

I'm All Smiles!

Again, I come with The Ponderings of an Everyday Guy .  I suppose I'm at an age now where I have time to reflect just a little bit more about things.  So here goes...

There's a story about a man who went to the doctor and the doctor said..."Mr. Smith, I have good news and bad news."  He commenced with the good news first, "Mr. Smith, you have three months to live."  Mr. Smith inquired "If that's the good news doc, what's the bad news?"  The doctor replied, "I should have told you about this three months ago."

It seems today there is much more bad news than ever before.  In my work, I see many people who are just coping to survive and bad news abounds.  It's easy to see why many have grown depressed, cynical and angry.

However, I know there is GOOD NEWS for all of us!  The good news is a person - Jesus Christ.  I encourage you to remember the promise of God's Word.  He said..."I will never leave you, nor forsake you."  There are many more promises just like this one.

Now, go look in the mirror and put a smile on your face... THERE IS HOPE!!!

Have a great day!

CW

Going Where No One Has Gone Before??

Shall we begin with the Ponderings of an Everyday Guy...I admit it - I'm a trekkie. I'm not a "crazy" trekkie. I don't wear federation uniforms as pajamas nor turned my living room into the bridge of the Enterprise. I do however, enjoy watching the shows. There are a few questions I raise though. 1. What in the world is a "power coupling"? 2. With all their "technology" why can't someone figure out how to make one that doesn't burnout? 3. And finally, has anyone ever seen a one? I guess these are the ponderings of a wasted mind.

It's been a good few days.  I'm not as anxious as I have been.  Waiting on God is one if not the hardest things to achieve.  I feel like I'm one of the disciples on the Saturday after the crucifixion.  I know what the promises of scripture teach me and I wait expectantly for the great miracle I believe will happen.  I pray for strength in the waiting...  (you may be asking what does fictional "power couplings" and waiting on God have in common).  Nothing - "Power Couplings" let us down... GOD NEVER WILL.

Have a great day!!

CW